UNION, N.J. — Rey Cruz Jr., a 2004 graduate of Kean University, has dedicated his career to serving his community—first as a middle school teacher, and now as a New Jersey State Police trooper. However, his commitment to making a difference extends beyond his law enforcement duties. Cruz has spent the past decade coaching the Union County Troopers, a baseball team for middle and high school boys, many of whom come from inner-city neighborhoods.
Cruz’s journey began while he pursued a bachelor’s degree in bilingual elementary education and history at Kean University. One of his professors gave him advice that continues to guide him today: “In order to know the community you serve, you must walk the streets your students walk.” This principle stayed with Cruz as he transitioned from teaching in Elizabeth, where he witnessed firsthand the challenges students face, to a career in law enforcement.
Now living in Elizabeth with his wife, Diana, who also teaches in the city, Cruz remains deeply connected to the community. Through his volunteer work as head coach of the Union County Troopers, a club baseball team named in honor of fallen State Trooper Thomas J. Hanratty, Cruz aims to provide mentorship and positive role models for young athletes. The team, originally based in Elizabeth’s Elmora section, occasionally practices on Kean University’s fields, further connecting Cruz to his alma mater.
“Rey is a good person with a big heart who gives so much back to the community,” said Jason Sgaramella, Kean’s associate athletic director. “There’s a huge benefit to helping the athletic youth in the communities surrounding Kean University.”
State Police Lt. Robert Davis echoed that sentiment, praising Cruz for his professionalism and dedication. “As a baseball coach, he not only teaches the fundamentals of the game but also imparts valuable life lessons, fostering a sense of teamwork and perseverance among the young athletes.”
Cruz said his goal is to help inner-city children see law enforcement as a force for good, rather than something to fear. “While at Kean, I was working at the Juvenile Detention Center when I realized a lot of kids didn’t have positive male role models,” Cruz said. “I wanted to make a bigger impact.”
Through his role with Troopers United Foundation Inc., a nonprofit affiliated with the State Police, Cruz has also been involved in community outreach efforts. These include supporting anti-hunger initiatives, teaching children about law enforcement, and organizing coat drives and sports programs, among other charitable activities.
“Rey embodies the finest traits of our amazing state troopers and brings great pride to Kean University as a graduate with unwavering dedication to serving his community,” said Matthew Caruso, Kean’s chief advancement officer.
Cruz credits much of his success to his Kean education, which he says opened doors to numerous opportunities. “That one piece of paper has allowed me to effect positive change in the lives of so many,” he said.