The New Jersey Young Democrats Elect Dynamic Leadership at Biennial Convention

Trenton, NJ – The New Jersey Young Democrats held its biennial convention last night, resulting in the successful election of its dedicated and passionate 2023-2025 board. Elections were facilitated by NJDSC Executive Director Saily Avelenda, who guided voting members through the process of voting in the new board. The organization, composed of forward-thinking young individuals committed to driving progressive change, continues to thrive under the leadership of these exceptional individuals. The board will continue working alongside other NJYD leadership team members and county chapters to make the most significant impact throughout the Garden State.

The newly elected board consists of:

President: Fatima Heyward

Executive Vice President: Eash Haughton

Northern Vice President: Ahmet Akdag

Central Vice President: Juan Carlos Nordelo

Southern Vice President: Quinton Law

Treasurer: Joseph Johnson

Secretary: Catherine Tung

National Committeewoman: Samantha Minchello

National Committeeman: Jason Bergman

LeRoy J. Jones Jr., Chair of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee, expressed, “I want to congratulate the entire slate of executive officers on winning tonight’s election to the board of the New Jersey Young Democrats. Fatima Heyward, Eash Haughton, Ahmet Akdag, Juan Carlos Nordelo, Quinton Law, Joseph Johnson, Catherine Tung, Samantha Minchello, and Jason Bergman represent our party’s brightest young leaders and the energy they bring to NJYD will be essential this year and next as we work to protect and expand our Democratic majority in the State Legislature and hold the White House. The Democratic Party is focused on the future of our nation and our party, and we will continue to support the next generation of political leaders.”

Each member of the leadership team brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and an unwavering dedication to the mission and values of the New Jersey Young Democrats. Their proven track record and commitment to amplifying the voices of young people make them ideal candidates to lead the organization into the future.

Under President Fatima Heyward’s visionary leadership, the New Jersey Young Democrats have made significant strides in empowering young individuals to actively participate in the political process. Through various initiatives, outreach programs, and community engagements, President Heyward has successfully advocated for important issues and mobilized the youth vote, effectively shaping the political landscape in New Jersey.

President Fatima Heyward expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in the NJYD leadership by the members of the New Jersey Young Democrats. She stated, “I am honored to be re-elected as president of the New Jersey Young Democrats. I do not take this position lightly and deeply value the trust and faith Young Democrats across the state have put in the board and me to lead the way forward. Over the course of the last few years, we have chartered and rechartered county chapters throughout the state, expanded our leadership team and caucuses, built and fostered partnerships with local, statewide, and national partners, raised thousands of dollars to support our YDA convention delegation, Young Democrats running for office and professional training, and strengthened the structure and framework of the New Jersey Young Democrats. In partnership with the amazing team I am afforded to work with, I look forward to continuing to build up the leaders of today and tomorrow.”

The elected executive team is determined to build upon past achievements and steer the New Jersey Young Democrats toward an even brighter future. Their collective focus will be on engaging more young people, fostering inclusivity, and effecting meaningful policy changes that address the concerns and aspirations of the next generation.

Executive Vice President Eash Haughton shared, “I am thrilled for the opportunity to work alongside young people and fellow Democrats to create a better state for future generations. By continuing to empower our youth and collaborating toward progress, we can build a brighter future and leave a lasting impact for generations to come. From Cape May to Sussex and across the nation, New Jersey Young Democrats have been leading the charge for progressive and sustainable change. I look forward to working with President Heyward and the rest of our team to support candidates in the upcoming election cycle and to ensure that we continue to move forward”

As the New Jersey Young Democrats embark on this new chapter, they welcome collaborations with like-minded organizations, community leaders, and young individuals who share their vision for a more inclusive and equitable New Jersey.

NJYD members are making a difference at all levels of government. From grassroots activists to governmental staffers to elected officials, New Jersey Young Democrats is working to effect progressive change in the garden state.

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