Renaissance hosted its 2nd Annual Women’s Empowerment Career Fair on Friday, March 28. This event served as the culminating celebration of a month-long recognition of Women’s History Month, highlighting the voices, achievements, and career journeys of remarkable women in the community.
This initiative brought 14 female presenters from the school’s parent body and the broader Montclair community to share their personal and professional journeys with students. Presenters included women from a variety of different fields—all passionate about mentoring the next generation, giving back to their community, and helping students learn about possible future career paths.(See full list of presenters below.)
One of the most powerful parts of this event is that it is completely student driven. Leading up to the fair, students completed career interest surveys and were allowed to select presenters whose careers aligned with their goals and curiosities. Each student received an individualized schedule based on that information. Students then ranked their preference of presentations and were assigned accordingly, ensuring their experience was not only engaging but deeply meaningful.
Presenter Kate Greenfield, former jazz club owner-turned teacher/guidance counselor, gave some practical advice to students. “What’s the trick to success? Working hard,” she said. “You will make mistakes. Life is not always a straight line. You show your strengths in how you fix things. You can always reinvent yourself.”
Montclair Board of Education President Monk Inyang, Vice President Yvonne Bouknight along with members Jada Roman and Eric Scherzer stopped by Renaissance and visited classrooms to listen to some of the inspiring presentations. “It was so meaningful to see our board members engaging with our students, staff, and presenters. When we show up for one another in this way, it sends a powerful message about the value of connection, representation, and support—it truly makes a lasting impact on our schools and community,” said Principal Maria Francisco.
“Last year’s event was a tremendous success—our students walked away excited, empowered, and full of new ideas about career choices and pathways,” she continued. “We are extremely proud to bring this event back, and we know it will be just as impactful this year. Events like this truly reflect the magic that happens when schools, families, and community members come together to support student growth and inspiration.”
Presenters:
Jaime Bedrin, Journalist
Jennifer Bladel, Photographer
Frankie Cevallos, Senior Solutions Specialist at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York
Jordan Goldberg, Director of Policy, public policy attorney for nonprofit organizations
Kate Greenfield, Owned a Jazz Club in NYC, then became a teacher/guidance counselor
Jennifer Griffith, Director of School Counseling
Saudia Hydar, Founder/ CEO, ByteCize
Jong Nee, Lawyer and owner of a law firm
Ndidiamaka Onwubalili, Physician in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility
DeAshia Pigatt, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Numi Prasarn, Video Producer for CNET
Loni Roberts, Attorney, employment, white collar and funds litigation
Christine Samuels, Attorney, past trial attorney now insurance
Houleye Siegel, IT Manager (software development) in banking