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The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Foundation elected Rowan University President Ali Houshmand as its next chairman.

Houshmand has served as Rowan’s president since 2012. He brings a remarkable life story and experience to the new role.

The Foundation runs programs that help high school students explore career options, develop professional skills and chart paths to post-secondary success. Its work includes training educators as well as supporting workforce readiness initiatives across the state.

Houshmand was one of 10 children raised in Iran by hardworking, illiterate parents – who used education to lift himself out of poverty. Since taking the helm at Rowan, he has focused on increasing access to higher education, improving academic quality, ensuring affordability and forging partnerships that promote economic development.

The foundation’s board of directors approved Houshmand’s nomination, according to an Aug. 11 announcement. He succeeds Passaic County Community College President Steven Rose.

“It is an honor to help lead this important organization at a time when students and young adults across New Jersey need pathways to opportunity more than ever,” said Houshmand. “I know firsthand that education can be transformative.”

Looking back, and ahead

“Dr. Houshmand is a visionary leader whose life story embodies the very purpose of our Foundation,” said Donna Custard, president of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “He understands the urgency of our work – to provide students and young adults in underrepresented communities with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in college and the workforce.”

Custard thanked Rose for his time serving as chairman.

“We are grateful to Steve Rose for his steady and thoughtful leadership over the past six years,” said Custard. “He helped steer the Foundation through a time of tremendous growth and change.

“With Dr. Houshmand now at the helm, we are excited to build on that momentum and expand our reach.”

Houshmand added, “The Foundation’s work preparing underserved students for college, careers, and lifelong success is not only admirable – it’s essential.”