Dr. Barbara Gaba is President Emerita of Atlantic Cape Community College in New Jersey, where she served as president for nine years before retiring in June 2026. A respected educator, researcher, and leader with more than four decades in higher education, she made history as the college’s first woman and first African American president. During her tenure, she advanced student success, educational equity, and community engagement by expanding access to higher education, strengthening workforce development, and building partnerships at local, state, and national levels. She also oversaw major grant funding efforts that supported student initiatives, campus improvements, and innovative programs, including expanded dual enrollment and Early College opportunities. Before her presidency, Dr. Gaba held senior leadership roles at Union County College, Camden County College, and the New Jersey State Department of Higher Education, consistently focusing on opportunities for underserved students. Her leadership and service extend beyond campus through involvement with organizations such as the American Association of Community Colleges and the NJ ACE Women’s Network. Widely recognized for her impact, she has received numerous honors, including lifetime achievement and leadership awards. Dr. Gaba continues to mentor aspiring leaders and remains an influential voice in higher education. She holds degrees from Bayero University, Rutgers University, and SUNY Stony Brook, and lives in Mays Landing, New Jersey, with her family.