Passaic Today

Khara Brown, a student at Montclair State University, has demonstrated resilience and courage throughout her academic journey. As a high school senior, she advocated for a leadership conference for young women during a recruitment event with Montclair State University. This initiative led to the creation of the Women’s Leadership Conference, inspired by a similar program for boys.

On November 21, Montclair hosted its 10th annual Women’s Leadership Conference. The event was organized by the University’s Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) and centered on the theme “Triumph Over Trauma: Transforming Pain into Power.” It aimed to empower young women by addressing challenges like mental health struggles and trauma, which disproportionately affect underrepresented and low-income populations.

Brown's personal experiences align closely with the conference's theme. She overcame significant health challenges that began in her sophomore year but returned to school and is set to graduate in May 2025. At this year's conference, she received the Triumph Over Trauma Award in recognition of her perseverance.

“It’s definitely not where I thought I’d be,” Brown said. “I didn’t expect to come this far, but I’m glad I did. I’m here in my grandmother’s name, and that means a lot to me."

The Women’s Leadership Conference serves as both an inspirational platform and an introduction to Montclair's admissions process, scholarships, and support systems. It highlights Montclair’s commitment to creating opportunities for Black, Latine, and first-generation women in higher education.

“We want the scholars to know they’re not alone," said Dr. Daniel Jean, Associate Provost for Educational Opportunity and Success Programs.

In 2015, Brown faced life-threatening health issues but remained determined through multiple surgeries and rehabilitation. Now she is involved in original research projects while pursuing a degree in Anthropology with minors in Archaeology and Native American and Indigenous Studies.

“I love learning about cultures," Brown said.

Brown received support from family members and mentors like Delores McMorrin, her EOF counselor. McMorrin praised Brown's determination: “This conference exists because of you — because of Khara’s audacity."

The event included performances such as a Healing Drum Ritual by NJ Bomba Collective and Empowerment Poetry by Alyea Pierce. Karima Mary McKenzie shared her personal battle with mental illness during a session titled "7 Days That Changed a Life."

Special recognitions were given during the event as well. Carmen Reyes Cuevas received an Impact Award for over 30 years of service in the EOF program. Triumph Over Trauma Awards were presented to Elaine Lane and Lakeesha Eure for their contributions towards community change.

“Today we celebrate not just survival," said Katrina Liera, Associate Director of Montclair’s EOF program.

Montclair senior Jezebel Dejesus emphasized empowerment during a student panel discussion: “We are all capable of making a change.”

Prospective students can learn more about Montclair State University's Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) programs as part of their college planning process.