Assemblywoman-elect Carmen Morales is announcing Ameerah McCoy as her Chief of Staff. Ameerah is currently the Director of Constituent Services to Assemblyman Gary Schaer in the 36th Legislative District. Ameerah entered the government sector with a solid background in case management and community outreach, skills she utilized to manage a diverse constituent caseload and coordinate events throughout Passaic and Bergen Counties. Maria Pilar Amaral, who previously served with former Assemblyman Ralph Caputo, has been promoted to Director of Constituent Services.

Assemblywoman-Elect Morales is a dedicated education professional from Belleville, NJ, with over 22 years of experience. She serves as Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the Essex County Schools of Technology. Before assuming her role, Carmen was the Principal of her alma mater, Essex County Newark Tech High School. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Montclair State University, a Master’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and an Education Specialist degree from Seton Hall University, where she is currently a Doctoral Candidate. She is a proud single mother and is actively involved with various community organizations throughout the 34th district.

“Today, I am proud to announce the appointment of Ameerah McCoy as my Chief of Staff. Having previously served alongside a dedicated Assemblyman, Gary Shaer, she has gained valuable experience and insight into the inner workings of legislation and governance,” said the Assemblywoman-elect. “Ameerah is committed to leveraging her knowledge and love for public service to effect positive change for those we will be honored to represent in the 34th Legislative District as of January 9th. With her dedication and expertise, I am confident that together we will work tirelessly to serve our constituents and bring positive change to our community.”

Ameerah will spearhead the Assemblywoman’s introduction to the 34th legislative district, which includes Belleville, Nutley, Glen Ridge, Bloomfield, East Orange, and Orange. The newly redistricted territory gains additional leadership from Senator-elect Britnee Timberlake and Assemblyman-elect Michael Venezia.

“I’m honored and thrilled to serve as Chief of Staff to Assemblywoman Morales,” said Ameerah. “The Assemblywoman and I come from professions that value community service, advocacy, and education, so we share a deep commitment to addressing constituent concerns and formulating policies that positively impact NJ residents, especially those in underserved communities.”

Ameerah will simultaneously join Ramapo College of New Jersey as a new Adjunct Professor, teaching Advanced Social Policy in the Master of Social Work Program. She developed an interest in policy and public service during an internship with Senator Nellie Pou in the 35th Legislative District. Ameerah’s additional roles include serving as the Women’s Caucus Co-Chair for the New Jersey Young Democrats and Acting Secretary of the Passaic County Young Democrats.