Marcela Ospina Maziarz

Vice President for Community and Government Affairs @Thomas Edison State University

Trenton, NJ, US

Lead government and community relations officer at the University and primary advisor to the University President.• Executes the University’s legislative agenda, reporting on any issues affecting the University at the state, local of federal level.• Successfully planned and lobbied for $2 Million in state funding for FY23, including first ever tuition aid assistance program for non-traditional learners ($1.5 M appropriation) and $4.2 million for FY24 a 75% increase in state funding and highest ever in the history of the University.• Regularly meet with elected and appointed officials, policymakers, their staffs, and other stakeholders to foster relationships and understanding of key issues impacting the University.• Member of the president’s cabinet, proactively advises the president, cabinet members and other stakeholders on priorities and policy matters.• Plan and execute strategic outreach to state legislative staff, congressional staff, state and federal agencies and other government bureaus.• Monitor, research and help interpret applicable federal and/or state laws and regulations that impact upon the university and translate them into policies and operating procedures. • Work on a daily basis with local non-profit organizations to support their efforts related to education and health services and interventions.• Promotes and manages outreach initiatives and programs in the Trenton/Mercer County community to neighbors, businesses, and institutions. Implemented vaccination events and back to school events in the Trenton Community.• Actively network and serve as a key representative on local and statewide boards and efforts that support University priorities. Member of the Southern New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Board of Trustees. • Supervise Government and Community Affairs team.• Acts as advisor for the NJ State Library system on legislative and regulatory matters.

Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration

MPA, Public Administration

Rutgers University–New Brunswick

B.A., Political Science

Colegio Bolivar

High School/Secondary Diplomas and Certificates