​ ​On Monday, March 24, 2025, Rowan College of South Jersey's (RCSJ) Tri-Alpha National Honor Society and Business Studies Division connected students and staff with first-generation business leaders at its Lunch and Learn event: “First to Class – First to Market." The event ran from 12 – 2 pm at RCSJ's Gloucester Campus in the Rastelli Business and Corporate Center. The event featured an esteemed panel of former first-generation students turned business leaders. They included: Byron Driscoll – Owner, Mt. Royal Inn; Dr. John Ervin – CEO, Allnet Medical and Allnet Coaching and Consulting; Nancy Mozzachio – Managing Principal of Sine Qua Non RE Advisors ; Colleen Mullins – Owner, Tinsley Treasures; and Rick Nelson – CEO, Advance to Vision LLC. The panel discussion was moderated by Tri-Alpha's Co-Chapter Advisor, Erik Burrell, and RCSJ's Assistant Dean of Business, Jim Celia.​

On Monday, March 24, 2025, Rowan College of South Jersey's (RCSJ) Tri-Alpha National Honor Society and Business Studies Division connected students and staff with first-generation business leaders at its Lunch and Learn event: “First to Class – First to Market." The event ran from 12 – 2 pm at RCSJ's Gloucester Campus in the Rastelli Business and Corporate Center. All students, faculty, and staff were invited to attend.

“First to Class – First to Market" featured an esteemed panel of former first-generation students turned business leaders. At the pre-event luncheon, participants and panelists were provided the opportunity to exchange business cards and network. Attendees were then invited to sit in on a panel discussion as they enjoyed a free lunch provided by Rastelli Foods Group. RCSJ's President, Dr. Frederick Keating, who was also a first-generation student, introduced the event.

The panel discussion was moderated by Tri-Alpha's Co-Chapter Advisor, Erik Burrell, and RCSJ's Assistant Dean of Business, Jim Celia. Panelists featured at the event included: 

• Byron Driscoll – Owner, Mt. Royal Inn
• Dr. John Ervin – CEO, Allnet Medical and Allnet Coaching and Consulting
• Nancy Mozzachio – Managing Principal of Sine Qua Non RE Advisors
• Colleen Mullins – Owner, Tinsley Treasures
• Rick Nelson – CEO, Advance to Vision LLC

A Q&A session followed the discussion, where attendees were encouraged to ask questions to any of the business leaders. Students were assured that no matter where they find themselves in their academic and career journeys, they are entitled to find joy in the work they do and explore the opportunities around them.

“Based on after-session conversations with students, a number of students left with Ah-Ha's that can be potential game changers." shared panelist, Rick Nelson.

For those who were interested in pursuing entrepreneurship, Nelson handed out copies of the book Entrepreneurial LEAP: Do You Have What It Takes to Become an Entrepreneur by Gino Wickman.

Both resources and role models can make a significant difference to first-generation students who may not have a support system in their lives that encourages them to pursue higher education. Another key takeaway from the event involved developing a “personal board of directors" – people you trust to give honest feedback and advice on career progression. By networking with those who have similar experiences, first-generation students not only received proper guidance but also gained access to the support system they deserve.

“Monday's luncheon with the local Chamber of Commerce was refreshing," said Jeffrey Corliss, a current Tri-Alpha Member. “Not only were the speakers prominent business owners, but they were also first-generation graduates that were able to share their experience of success. Furthermore, it was great to see fellow students interacting and asking viable questions."

The Tri-Alpha honor society exists as a not-for-profit (500(c)3) organization to support the activities of the honor society. RCSJ's Kappa Epsilon Chapter was founded in April 2024 and has remained dedicated to encouraging and celebrating the achievements of first-generation students.

“We are working on building our membership and creating a network of support through opportunities like the Lunch and Learn event," said Co-Chapter advisor, Erik Burrell. “These events allow our students to build relationships, gain new perspectives, foster knowledge exchange, as well as enhance their future professional endeavors."

Induction criteria for Tri-Alpha includes obtaining a minimum of 30 credit/semester hours towards an associate's degree or baccalaureate degree while achieving an overall undergraduate GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale. A student's parents, step-parents, or legal guardians must also have never completed a bachelor's degree.

Membership for Tri-Alpha lasts a lifetime and all inductees receive an honorary certificate and pin upon induction. Benefits include local chapter leadership opportunities, mentorship from previous first-generation students, and networking with first-generation scholars from all academic disciplines. Additionally, events such as “First to Class – First to Market" help facilitate success in both academic and career journeys.

Burrell expressed how proud he is to see the outcome of Monday's event. “It is fulfilling to see First-Gen students gain first-hand knowledge from First-Gen professionals who were able to share their journey and career path along the way. Additionally, it is rewarding to see how our students got motivated and felt inspired to do great things."

For more information on upcoming Tri-Alpha National Honor Society events, visit RCSJ.edu/CampusLife or contact Erik Burrell at [email protected]

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