By Kathleen Nugent, DFER NJ State Director
This week, New Jersey lost a respected leader with U.S. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg’s passing. Lautenberg’s five terms of service for the state were marked with notable achievements. He successfully made 21 the national drinking age, designated the .08 blood alcohol level for drunk driving, banned smoking on flights and in federal buildings, denied gun ownership to those who were convicted of domestic violence, and championed funding for Amtrak, among other accomplishments. A veteran of World War II, he recognized the importance of honoring those who serve in our military and supported the G.I. Bill in 2008 to significantly increase educational benefits. We commemorate his leadership on safety and health issues, and send our condolences to his family and loved ones.
Prior to joining DFER in February 2010, Kathleen Nugent supported the growth of TEAM Charter Schools, the region of KIPP schools in Newark, New Jersey, for almost two years in their development department. Before TEAM, Kathleen worked at The MCJ Amelior Foundation for five years.