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Dear NJCU Family,

I am writing today to share news of leadership changes for the Division of Student Development and Community Engagement.

It is with bittersweet emotions that I announce that Erin J. McCann, Vice President for Student Development and Community Engagement, will be leaving the university at the end of the month for another career opportunity.

Her time here was a true homecoming — a return to NJCU years after first setting foot on our campus in 2011. During her most recent tenure, Erin made meaningful and lasting contributions that have strengthened our institution's foundation for student success. She authored our institution's first , providing a roadmap that will guide our work for years to come. Under her leadership, we , created vital reporting structures for data collection and assessment across divisions, and developed new partnerships and revenue streams through our events and conferencing department. Erin leaves us a stronger organization than when she arrived, and we are deeply grateful for her leadership, friendship, and unwavering commitment to our students. 

As we move forward, we are pleased to announce that effective July 1, 2025, Dr. Pia Stevens Haynes will serve as Acting Vice President of Student Development and Community Engagement. Dr. Stevens has been a respected and exemplary student advocate for over 20 years, known throughout our campus for her creativity, problem-solving ability, team-building skills, work ethic, and professionalism. Most importantly, she possesses that unique ability to interact with and guide students and families in ways that truly contribute to their success. 

Dr. Stevens brings not only deep understanding of our students' needs but also the leadership experience and passion necessary to continue strengthening student life and engagement across our university.

Pia joined our NJCU community in September 2021 and has served as Dean of Students since January 2023. A recent doctoral graduate from Manhattanville University's Educational Leadership program, she also holds master's degrees in both education and social work. Her belief in the transformative power of education aligns perfectly with our mission, and her extensive experience spans all areas of student life — from retention and academic ÃÛÌÒtv to international student services, first-generation college student ÃÛÌÒtv, academic advising, Title IX, student conduct, residence life, athletics, veteran services, financial aid, recruitment, and general student engagement. 

Please join me in thanking Erin McCann for her service and best wishes for future success and in welcoming Dr. Pia Stevens Haynes as she steps into this important acting role. I am confident that under her leadership, Student Development and Community Engagement will continue to flourish and evolve to meet the changing needs of our diverse student body.

Yours in service,


Interim President
New Jersey City University