About Us
Our Founder
Azize R. Cornejo, M.Ed.
is a transformational higher education leader and educator with over 25 years of experience dedicated to advancing student success and creating equitable pathways for underserved populations. Serving in a senior administrative role at Bergen Community College, she leads cross-functional initiatives to enhance institutional strategy, operations, and the overall student experience. Additionally, as an adjunct instructor, she teaches ESL, Student Success, Financial Literacy, and Citizenship, equipping diverse and multilingual learners with the tools to succeed academically and professionally. Her educational foundation includes a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Higher Education Administration and Leadership from Penn State University.
Beyond higher education, Azize is a powerful civic changemaker deeply committed to public service and community empowerment. She is the President and Founder of the Elmwood Park–NJ Latinos Association, where she champions advocacy, education, and resource access for Latino families, and she serves as Vice President of the New Jersey chapter of the National Organization for Student Success (NOSS). Her extensive local leadership also includes roles on the Elmwood Park Recreation Advisory Board, Board of Health, and the New Elmwood Park Chamber of Commerce. Further blending public safety with community trust-building, Azize serves as a Special Police Officer with the Hackensack Police Department, exemplifying her unique ability to connect strategic vision with hands-on, impactful community action.
Our Mission
The Elmwood Park-NJ Latinos Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering the Latino community in Elmwood Park, NJ, by providing access to essential public services, advocacy, education, and cultural enrichment. We aim to build a resilient and thriving community where every Latino family has the opportunity to live with dignity, purpose, and prosperity.