Brookdale Community College is pleased to announce Mary Pat Angelini’s appointment by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners to serve on the Board of Trustees through August 2026. The Brookdale community extended a warm welcome as she was officially sworn in at the September 28 Board meeting. 

“We are pleased to have Mary Pat Angelini on the Board of Trustees,” said Vice Chairman Bret Kaufmann. “I am confident that, with Angelini’s advice and help, Brookdale will continue our focus on excellence in educating and training Monmouth County residents and to provide pathways for meaningful careers.”  

Mary Pat Angelini is a leading advocate for children, families, and behavioral healthcare issues in New Jersey. A former legislator, she is currently the CEO of Preferred Behavioral Health Group (PBHG), a non-profit behavioral healthcare organization in central New Jersey. Prior to her position at PBHG, she served as Executive Director of Prevention First, overseeing programs to counter the harmful effects of substance use, violence, and bullying. Both non-profits have been the recipient of many awards under her leadership.  

“I’m thrilled to join the Board of Trustees of Brookdale Community College, recognized as the top community college in NJ and one of the best in the nation,” said Mary Pat Angelini. “I look forward to serving on the Board and working with the Administration and staff as Brookdale continues to provide an outstanding and affordable education to their students.”  

While serving in the New Jersey Legislature from 2008 to 2016 as Deputy Conference Leader, Ms. Angelini sponsored numerous legislative initiatives. As Ranking Member of the Health and Senior Services Committee, she crafted legislation to improve state psychiatric hospitals’ conditions and address underage drinking and drug use. She was the prime sponsor of the “Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights,” and the “Lifeline” legislation, which establishes a “safe haven” from prosecution for minors who summon medical assistance for intoxicated underage persons. In addition, she fought for strict ethics reform and stronger regulations for childcare centers.  

“I am honored to welcome Mary Pat Angelini to the Brookdale family,” said President Dr. David Stout. “Her distinguished career in human services and the NJ State Legislature will bring a wealth of experience that further fortifies the significant strengths of the Board of Trustees. All Brookdale Community College students and employees will benefit greatly from Mary Pat’s knowledge base, vast network of resources, and passion for transforming lives.”  

The Board is comprised of twelve Monmouth County citizens who volunteer for four-year terms. The Board of Trustees, responsible to the people of Monmouth County, has the legislative responsibility of formulating broad public policy for community college education in Monmouth County.