Veronica graduated from Berkeley College, Garret Mountain Campus, in 1993 with her Associate’s degree in Customer Relations. Soon after graduation, she was hired to work for the City of Passaic Police Department in their Record Division. Besides performing administrative duties for her superiors, she is responsible for the monthly compiling of statistical information that is generated into a specialized report (Uniform Crime Report) and is submitted to the New Jersey State Police, as well as the F.B.I. “This information is important for many reasons. It shows us the rate of crime compared to previous years. It helps identify the types of crime and their extent and what needs to get done to lower those crimes; whether it means hiring more police officers, establishing specialized units, like a Gang Task Force or School Resource Officers; or applying for special grants. In the end, it helps implement safe measures for our community.”
Now completing her fourteenth year with the City, she has established professional relationships as well as friendships with her colleagues. She volunteers her time to assist the P.B.A. at their special events. “When you have spent so many years at one job, your co-workers become like family,” she says.
In 2001, Veronica, encouraged by the man who would become her husband, was determined to continue her education and returned to Berkeley College, Garret Mountain Campus, for her Bachelor’s degree, which she proudly received in 2003. For alumni that may be considering continuing their education at Berkeley, she states, “It took me quite some time to reach my goal of getting my Bachelor’s, but I encourage all those who are thinking about it, to make it their dream. Set your goal and go for it. With the ‘Berkeley Advantage’ and persistence, your future is what you make it, so stick your hand out and grab it. It’s already yours.”
