Ramapo College of New Jersey Publishes Second Memoir Authored by New Jersey High School Students



(MAHWAH, NJ) —  Ramapo College of New Jersey, in collaboration with Newark Public School District’s Science Park High School teacher Shawn Adler, published the book The Helpers. The memoir features stories from high school students across New Jersey who share their experiences of struggle, doubt, crisis, and talk about those who helped them persevere and triumph when faced with adversity. “The published collection showcases 61 of the best stories, which highlight the extraordinary power of our most vulnerable,” said Adler. This is the second collaboration between Shawn Adler and Ramapo College.

“Ramapo College is delighted that we produced a second volume with Shawn Adler, and captured the diverse experiences of high school students in New Jersey. The students wrote their own stories about how they navigated difficult times with the help of family, friends, educators and community members.  We hope they are inspired to keep writing their stories as they move into college and beyond,” said Dr. Susan Hangen, interim vice provost of teaching and learning at Ramapo College.

In 2022, the memoir The Class of Covid-19: Unmasked, containing narratives from New Jersey high school students about the effects of the pandemic on their lives, was published. Proceeds from the sale of this book went directly to the We Care Program, and raised more than $400 to date.

All 100% of proceeds from the sales of The Helpers will benefit the We Care Program at Ramapo College once again. The program provides resources to students who need assistance with additional funding resources or experience food insecurity or face homelessness.

To learn more about Ramapo College, visit ramapo.edu.