Passaic Today

Montclair State University and Essex County have announced a new partnership between the Essex County Office of Public Health Management and Montclair’s College for Community Health, Department of Public Health. The agreement, made public on October 15, will establish the Essex County Office of Public Health Management as the first countywide Academic Health Department in New Jersey.

President Jonathan Koppell of Montclair State University said, “This partnership reflects Montclair State University’s deep commitment to serving the public good through impactful, community-based collaboration. We are proud to expand our myriad of partnerships with Essex County and grateful to County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo for recognizing what is possible when academic expertise of our Department of Public Health is aligned with Essex County’s forward-thinking leadership. Together, we are building a model for how universities and local governments can work together to strengthen public health infrastructure, train the next generation of professionals and improve the well-being of the communities we serve.”

Dean Ron Werner-Wilson of Montclair’s College for Community Health commented, “We are committed to teaching, research and service that promotes equitable healthcare and wellbeing in New Jersey and beyond. As the Dean of the College, I am delighted that this Academic Health Department partnership with the Essex County Office of Public Health Management will enable us to join our individual commitments to public health, multiplying our impact on Essex County residents, while building our students’ skills and expertise.”

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. stated, “Montclair State always has been a great partner with us and their involvement and presence in the community is second to none. Combining the talent and resources of both our institutions will enhance the outreach and service we provide to our residents, develop innovative approaches to enhance wellness and preparedness and create a pipeline to develop future public health officials.”

Maya Harlow, Essex County Public Health Officer and Director of the Essex County Office of Public Health Management, added, “County Executive DiVincenzo understands the importance of public health and I appreciate the guidance and support he has given as we have worked to create a public health program that responds and can adapt to the needs of our diverse community. Joining with Montclair State brings two public health powerhouses together in a relationship that will benefit our residents.”

The agreement formalizes an existing collaboration and aims to strengthen joint efforts in public service, research, and resource sharing. The partnership is expected to improve disease prevention, wellness promotion, public health education, and emergency preparedness. By combining the county’s practical experience with the university’s academic expertise, both parties aim to develop innovative public health approaches and serve as a model for similar initiatives.

The partnership will also provide Montclair State University students with opportunities for internships at the Essex County Office of Public Health Management. Students will gain hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, public health program support, outreach, advocacy, and emergency preparedness. The university will ensure that students meet academic standards and understand departmental procedures.

The Essex County Office of Public Health Management has previously played a significant role in the county’s COVID-19 testing and vaccination programs. It has also partnered with RWJBarnabas Health on mobile outreach and student vaccination clinic initiatives.

Montclair State University’s Department of Public Health has a long history of training public health professionals in New Jersey, with alumni serving in leadership roles across the state. The department has addressed various public health issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic, maternal and child health, and substance use reduction.