Rowan College Professor Recognized as Top Innovator in New Jersey

Cortney Bolden named to prestigious INNOVATE100 list for leadership in academia

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:37pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen grid of stylized graduation caps in neon shades of blue, pink, and yellow, representing the innovative spirit of academic leaders in New Jersey.The INNOVATE100 program honors New Jersey's top academic innovators who are shaping the state's future through groundbreaking research and education.New Brunswick Today

Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ) professor Dr. Cortney Bolden has been named one of New Jersey's top innovative leaders as part of the INNOVATE100 initiative. Bolden will be honored at the annual celebration on May 13 in New Brunswick for her work advancing research, education, and community engagement at the college.

Why it matters

The INNOVATE100 program highlights forward-thinking professionals across academia, business, government, and nonprofit sectors who are driving meaningful progress and innovation within their fields and communities. Bolden's recognition reflects the innovative spirit and commitment to excellence at RCSJ and underscores the critical role higher education plays in fostering innovation and preparing the next generation of leaders.

The details

Bolden was recognized in the Academia category, representing RCSJ among a distinguished group of leaders who are advancing research, education, and community engagement across the state. The INNOVATE100 initiative, led by Innovation+ and its founder James Barrood, selects honorees for their leadership, collaboration, and impact in driving progress.

  • The awards ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. on May 13 in New Brunswick.
  • Registration for the event will open to the public in April.

The players

Cortney Bolden

A professor at Rowan College of South Jersey who was recognized as one of New Jersey's top innovative leaders as part of the prestigious INNOVATE100 initiative.

Brenden Rickards

The President of Rowan College of South Jersey, who stated that Bolden's recognition reflects the innovative spirit and commitment to excellence at the college.

James Barrood

The founder of Innovation+, the organization leading the INNOVATE100 initiative that honors forward-thinking professionals across New Jersey.

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What they’re saying

“Professor Bolden's recognition reflects the innovative spirit and commitment to excellence that define Rowan College of South Jersey. Her work exemplifies how education can drive transformation, empower students, and strengthen our regional workforce.”

— Brenden Rickards, President of Rowan College of South Jersey

What’s next

The awards ceremony honoring the INNOVATE100 honorees, including Professor Bolden, will take place on May 13 in New Brunswick. Registration for the event will open to the public in April.

The takeaway

Rowan College of South Jersey's Professor Cortney Bolden's recognition as one of New Jersey's top innovative leaders through the prestigious INNOVATE100 program highlights the college's commitment to driving progress, empowering students, and strengthening the regional workforce through innovative educational initiatives.