AR128

An Assembly Resolution declaring the second full week of April of 2026 as “Professional Development Week” at public institutions of higher education in New Jersey.

Whereas, Professional development is defined as education, training, or skill development obtained through continuing education and career training after entering the workforce; and

Whereas, Professional development opportunities are offered through workshops, networking events, seminars, online learning, and mentorship and career coaching; and

Whereas, Participation in professional development seminars and courses helps individuals remain competitive in their fields by staying current with emerging technologies and other trends and demonstrating to their employers they can adapt to the changing demands of the industry; and

Whereas, Participation in professional development events and courses helps individuals learn and develop technical or other leadership skills so they feel more confident and increase effectiveness at work; and

Whereas, Participation in professional development by obtaining special certifications provides tangible documentation one is proficient in an area of expertise which can help propel career advancement; and

Whereas, Participation in professional development events allows professionals to also explore adjacent fields and take classes if they are exploring the possibility of transitioning careers; and

Whereas, Participation in professional development through mentorship allows individuals to develop close relationships with leaders in their fields and receive guidance as they navigate their careers; and

Whereas, Participation in professional development through alumni networking events allows individuals to interact with their peers and foster professional relationships outside their immediate place of work; and

Whereas, Public institutions of higher education in New Jersey offer numerous opportunities for professional development including skill-based courses, networking events, certificate programs and seminars in various fields of study; and

Whereas, Declaring the second full week of April, 2026 as “Professional Development Week” at public institutions of higher education in New Jersey will bring greater attention to the importance of professional development and highlight the opportunities these schools offer; now, therefore,

Be It Resolved by the General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:

1. This resolution declares the second full week of April of 2026 as “Professional Development Week” at public institutions of higher education in New Jersey.

2. Copies of this resolution, as filed with the Secretary of State, shall be transmitted by the Clerk of the General Assembly to the presidents of public institutions of higher education located in New Jersey.

STATEMENT

This resolution designates the second full week of April of 2026 as “Professional Development Week” at public institutions of higher education in New Jersey. Professional development is education, training, or skill development obtained through continuing education and career training after entering the workforce. Benefits of professional development include learning new skills to feel more confident or efficient at work, staying current with evolving technologies and trends in an industry, exploring new or adjacent fields, learning from industry leaders who serve as mentors, and obtaining professional certifications to aid in career advancement. Opportunities for professional development include networking events, seminars or classes teaching specific skills, more formal certification programs, and mentorship programs. New Jersey institutions for higher education offer professional development opportunities for both alumni and other individuals who wish to take advantage of these offerings.