GALLOWAY, N.J. — Jose Lozano was elected Chair of the Stockton University Board of Trustees at their September 10 meeting. The leadership change follows Nelida Valentin completing her term in the position.

Lozano, a 2003 graduate from Oradell, expressed excitement about returning to Stockton as a board member and giving back to the community that offered him many opportunities.

“The university that I felt gave me the foundational resources I needed to be successful. I’m beyond grateful, and there’s no better way to give back than to be a trustee,” Lozano said.

Assistant Vice President for Student Health and Wellness Zupenda Davis and Karen Alton began the meeting by sharing the progress of the Alton Mental Health Initiatives Fund and its impact on students. The fund recognizes Stockton staff for their continued work in identifying and assisting students with mental health and wellness challenges, while also promoting the development and expansion of university programs to provide further support. Davis also shared upcoming initiatives under consideration, including sleeping pods in the academic spine for students to use during the school day.

Stockton President Joe Bertolino presented student demographic statistics from the past year. The university ranked among the top 50 nationally for graduation rates, with more than 2,500 students who received the Pell Grant earning degrees.

Bertolino’s State of the University address is scheduled for October 6 at 2 p.m. in the Campus Center Theater. The next public Board of Trustees meeting will be held December 3, 2025.