Mercer Times

TCNJ has announced the appointment of Kari Osmond as the associate vice president for government and community relations, starting March 24. In her new position, Osmond will oversee TCNJ’s government relations at various levels.

“Kari has a deep understanding and appreciation of the role TCNJ plays not only for our students but for the state of New Jersey,” stated TCNJ President Michael A. Bernstein. “Her skill set, coupled with her genuine affection for our college and her enthusiastic approach to lobbying, will undoubtedly help us build a coalition to advocate on behalf of TCNJ as we continue to elevate our institutional profile across the state and the nation.”

Osmond, an alumna of TCNJ, has spent the last decade working with Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman as lead advisor on policy and political strategy while managing legislative, communications, and constituent services. She established Rep. Watson Coleman's main office in 2015 and became chief of staff in 2021 after serving as campaign manager and deputy chief of staff.

Her political career began during her time at TCNJ when she interned for then-Assemblyman Reed Gusciora, later becoming his chief of staff for four years.

“This is an exciting time to return to my alma mater,” said Osmond. “Higher education is at a crossroads and I am excited to work with the campus and community partners to advance the college’s mission.”

Osmond graduated from The College of New Jersey in 2009 and obtained an executive education certificate in public leadership from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government in 2023.