Newsworthy

Career Exploration and Success (CES) welcomed Rutgers University President William F. Tate IV to its College Avenue office for an opportunity to explore the programs, resources, and initiatives supporting students throughout their career journeys. During his visit, President Tate was greeted by CES student colleagues at the front desk and members of the department's leadership team, who introduced him to the breadth of CES's work and its commitment to advancing career readiness and positive post-graduation outcomes for Rutgers students.

Rutgers Career Exploration and Success staff members Topher Sutton and Zachary Stager are taking on leadership roles with the HireBig10+ Career Consortium, advancing collaboration, innovation, and shared learning across the career services community.

Rutgers University–New Brunswick has received the 2026 Experiential Learning Award from EAB for its leadership in expanding career-connected learning opportunities for students. The recognition highlights Rutgers–New Brunswick’s commitment to building a career-ready campus through initiatives such as experiential learning programs, industry mentoring, internship and public service opportunities, the Student Employee Enrichment (SEE) program, and Forage job simulations integrated into Handshake and mentoring courses. University leaders emphasized that these experiences help students develop professional skills, confidence, and meaningful career connections while preparing for post-graduation success.

The Office of Career Exploration and Success has been elevated to the Assistant Vice Provost level, marking a significant milestone in the university’s commitment to career readiness. William (Wil) Jones now serves as Assistant Vice Provost for Career Development and Executive Director of CES, reflecting the growing role of career development in student success. This advancement highlights the collective efforts of campus partners in building a career-ready ecosystem that supports students in exploring pathways, developing key skills, and achieving meaningful post-graduation outcomes.

On November 5, 2025, Career Exploration and Success hosted it's annual Career Ecosystem Breakfast, a networking event focused on celebrating outstanding campus partnerships and highlighting opportunities for collaboration.

Through the Student Employee Enrichment (SEE) Program at Rutgers, Tommy Reardon '14 transformed his on-campus job at the Cook Douglass Recreation Center into an opportunity to develop key career skills such as leadership, communication, and adaptability. With guidance from mentors and a commitment to growth, he leveraged these experiences to pursue a successful career in fitness coaching, now serving as Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Plainfield High School.