Nearly 400 high school students from across New Jersey attended the 11th Annual Women’s Leadership Alliance Conference at Montclair State University on November 19. The event, held at University Hall, brought together young women and girls to hear advice from university leaders, educators, and alumni about preparing for college and future careers.
The conference was sponsored by the Future College Graduate Academy, Education Opportunity Fund Program, and Office of Inclusive Excellence. Its goal is to inspire women to pursue leadership roles and meaningful career paths by connecting them with mentors and professionals.
Montclair EOF Associate Director Katrina Liera described the event as a way to empower women throughout their academic and professional journeys. “The conference empowers women at every stage of their academic and professional journey by bringing together high school scholars, college scholars and professionals to learn, connect, and inspire one another,” said Liera.
Nicole Pulliam, a strategic higher education leader, certified executive coach, and tenured professor who earned her Ph.D. in Counselor Education from Montclair in 2014, addressed first-generation college hopefuls. “Your worth and potential are not measured by what you already know but by your courage to step into something no one in your family has ever done,” said Pulliam. “Trust that you belong, even when the environment makes you question it. Surround yourself with support, ask questions, and allow yourself to learn along the way.”
Pulliam also offered guidance for those starting their college journey:
– Your greatest power is owning your narrative— Your career path will have twists, turns, and moments of uncertainty, and that’s okay.
– You get to define what success looks like for you —Your path is powerful because it’s yours.
– You don’t have to have it all figured out to take the next step with confidence.
– Your story is your strength — Everything you’ve lived through is preparing you for what you’re becoming.
Angela White, a counselor with Montclair’s Education Opportunity Fund program, encouraged students to begin planning early for college by choosing meaningful classes and getting involved in activities. She advised building strong study habits in high school since these skills will help in college. White also emphasized self-belief: “You must believe that college is within reach.” She reminded students that teachers, mentors, and higher education professionals are supporting them throughout their journey.
White further encouraged authenticity: “Embrace who you are — Be your authentic self in academics, activities and socially.” She added that students should let their passions guide them toward future careers.
Jayme Ganey from the Office of Inclusive Excellence Programs shared advice relevant for people at any stage:
– We’re all leaders; you don’t need a title to be one.
– Never dim your light, ever.
– Always remember who lifted you, and make sure you lift others.
– Change is a constant, inevitable, beautiful force of nature. Embrace it, use it, create it.
– Don’t be afraid. Someone needs what you have to give. Don’t be the obstacle in the way of their receiving it. Be a vessel.
– Laugh and have fun as much as humanly possible — and get your work done.
Montclair State University highlights its affordability as well as its proximity—12 miles—to New York City as advantages for prospective students. The university has been recognized nationally as a “Dream School” with graduation rates above expectations; it offers programs designed for student belonging along with pathways toward careers.
According to The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S., Montclair State University ranks among the Top 30 public institutions nationwide (https://www.wsj.com/rankings/college-rankings/best-colleges-2026) as well as being named New Jersey’s top public institution (https://www.montclair.edu/newscenter/2023/09/06/montclair-state-university-named-top-public-university-in-new-jersey-by-wall-street-journal-college-pulse/).
