Dr. Patricia Kempton Appointed to the Thomas Edison State University Board of Trustees

Patricia Kempton, Ed.D., was sworn in today as the newest member of the Thomas Edison State University Board of Trustees. Dr. Kempton’s nomination was confirmed by the New Jersey Senate and approved by Gov. Phil Murphy in December.

Kempton joins seven new members who were appointed to the board in 2025. Last June, the board voted to expand its capacity from 11 to 13 members, not including student trustees.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Kempton to the Thomas Edison State University Board of Trustees,” said Dr. Michael Toscani, chair of the board. “Her extensive educational background will provide insight that will strengthen our ability to guide the University and support its mission.”

“Dr. Kempton’s lifelong commitment to education and community service reflects the values at the heart of Thomas Edison State University,” said Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D., president of TESU. “Her deep roots in Trenton and broad experience across K–12 and higher education will strengthen the board’s ability to advance equitable access and student success.”

Kempton has more than 30 years of experience in secondary and higher education, having taught at the college, high school and middle school levels. She held a variety of positions within the Trenton Public Schools from 1994 to 2015 and has remained deeply engaged in the Trenton community. Her service includes board memberships with the Trenton Head Start program and the Henry J. Austin Health Center. She is also active at Grant Chapel AME Church on Mercer Street in Trenton.

A resident of Ewing, Kempton holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, a master’s degree from Boston College and a bachelor’s degree from Tufts University.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Thomas Edison State University and to contribute to an institution that expands access to higher education for adult learners,” Kempton said. “I look forward to working with my fellow trustees to support the University’s mission and ensure its continued impact across New Jersey and beyond.”