Ramapo College’s Center for Student Involvement (CSI), has recently launched a new leadership program tailored specifically for juniors. Known as JUMP, Juniors United Motivational Program, the initiative aims to further develop students’ leadership abilities, build confidence and prepare for post-graduation success.
JUMP was created by Jack Nesmith, the Coordinator of Student Activities within CSI at Ramapo College. Nesmith, a 2014 Ramapo graduate, first-generation college student and an Education Opportunity Fund (EOF) scholar, brought his own experiences as a student leader to the table when developing the program. His goal was to continue the success of another leadership program, Sophomores Advancing in Leadership, which has supported students for over a decade.
“A lot of the second year students kind of have talked to me about continuing that leadership program into the next step, coming up with concepts, ideas and just generally what a program would look like for junior students,” said Nesmith in an interview with The Ramapo News “So in 2022, [JUMP] got a lot of traction … I took a year of development, but pretty much had it ready and then officially got green lighted this past summer.”
JUMP is designed to help juniors navigate many transitions, such as their success as third-year students and also their preparation for life after Ramapo. “We want leaders to not just look at the academic success and the social success they got here, but how they’ve grown as a person,” said Nesmith. “We want you to literally ‘jump’ into leadership and that includes all forms of it, creativity, … branding, how to be a good person, how to have difficult conversations, how to delegate, how to manage and lead teams.”
The program aligns with Ramapo College’s broader mission to develop leaders who will become “change agents” in the organization. The goal is to support students as they move from academic life to postgraduate opportunities, whether it’s graduate school, entering the workforce, or continuing to lead on campus.
One standout feature of the program is the alumni involvement. Nesmith has worked closely with the professional staff members and the Ramapo Alumni Program to involve graduates who can provide insights about their post-college experiences.
“Alumni play a big role because even when I was creating JUMP, I talked to a couple of alumni I am friends with, and different people in the alumni network about topics you wish you knew as a junior student,” said Nesmith. One of the sessions includes an alumni panel where professionals discuss life after college, including how to secure your first apartment, apply to graduate school, and navigate rent and other finances.
JUMP is also committed to diversity and inclusion. Nesmith recruits students from all backgrounds and experiences, ensuring that the program reflects the diversity of Ramapo College’s student body. “We make sure everyone not only has a seat at the table but has a place at it,” he said.
This inclusivity ensures that the program fosters an environment where students can grow together. “We want those authentic stories,” said Nesmith. “We want every program, every initiative and every ounce of information to be relevant for all Ramapo students to feel included, heard and valued.”
For Nesmith, the development of JUMP is a full-circle moment, allowing him to give back to the institution that helped shape his path. “I believe mentorship made a huge difference,” he said. “I took the tools that my mentors gave me to give to the next generation.”
JUMP is set to become an important part of Ramapo College’s leadership initiatives, with its focus on leadership skills, personal development and career preparation, helping juniors take the next step towards success at Ramapo and beyond.
lkelyman@ramapo.edu
Featured photo by Jack Nesmith
