Barbara Keshishian, former president of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), passed away on Aug. 19. Keshishian held various leadership roles within the NJEA from 2001 to 2013, including president from 2009 to 2013.
Starting as a high school mathematics teacher in New Milford, Keshishian climbed the ranks to become president of the New Milford Education Association and later the Bergen County Education Association.
Current NJEA leadership expressed their condolences to Keshishian’s family, highlighting her dedication to school employees, her belief in the importance of public education, and her role as a mentor and friend.
She served as the first chair of NJEA’s Pride in Public Education Committee, focusing on promoting the success of New Jersey’s public schools. Keshishian’s passion for public education resonated in her 2009 interview, where she emphasized the power of education to strengthen the country and the need to defend public schools.
Beyond her roles in education, Keshishian was a proud graduate of St. Peter’s College in Jersey City. An annual scholarship is awarded in her honor to a graduating senior at New Milford High School. Her impact on education and commitment to public schools will be remembered by many.