Early Life: A Foundation of Service

Celia King’s journey of service began at an early age, setting the stage for a lifetime of impactful contributions. Volunteering as a Candy Striper at Jersey Shore Medical Center, she was awarded for her exceptional dedication to assisting patients. This early experience ignited her passion for community service, a passion that would guide her through every phase of her career.

Academic Pursuits and Early Career

While pursuing her undergraduate studies at Syracuse University, Celia established a college-level Beta Psi Chapter of the National Association of Negro Business & Professional Women’s Club Incorporated. This initiative continued the community service work she began as a high school student, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to giving back.

Celia’s professional journey started in healthcare administration in New York City, where she streamlined operational procedures to be more sensitive to patient populations. She also played a crucial role in developing policies for the NYC Police Department to handle emergency calls involving behavioral health issues.

Commitment to Community and Public Service

Celia’s dedication to her community extended beyond her professional life. As a volunteer EMT on the Maplewood First Aid Squad, she was instrumental in securing additional funding to keep the squad operational. Her commitment to public service further manifested when she was elected as Vice Mayor of Maplewood, where she founded the domestic violence crisis intervention team and helped form the Community Coalition on Race to address racial tensions.

Leadership Newark: Cultivating Future Leaders

As the Chief Executive Officer of Leadership Newark, Celia has been the driving force behind the organization’s growth and success. Under her leadership, Leadership Newark has expanded its programs to include training on nonprofit board service, executive-level training, and a youth fellowship program. Her efforts have cultivated over 1,000 leaders committed to serving the Newark community.

Celia’s belief in servant leadership, a concept coined by Robert Greenleaf, underpins her work. By first serving others, she expands her service for the common good. This philosophy has shaped her leadership of Leadership Newark, creating a legacy of empowerment and community building.

A Trusted Community Connector

Celia is widely recognized as a trusted voice and connector within her community. She is the go-to person for filling positions, securing board members, and finding volunteers for service projects. Her personal touch and genuine care for the alumni of Leadership Newark have fostered a strong, supportive network.

She ensures diversity in every Leadership Newark class and committee, spanning race, gender, geography, professional industry, culture, and age. This inclusiveness is essential to her approach, ensuring all voices are heard and considered.

Personal Connections and Lasting Impact

Celia’s role extends beyond professional boundaries. She maintains personal relationships with many of the program’s alumni, attending their personal events and staying involved in their lives. Her mentorship and guidance are valued by all who have had the privilege of working with her.

Her reach and influence are vast, and the impact of her work in the community is profound. Celia King’s dedication to community building, leadership development, and civic engagement has made her an invaluable asset to Newark and beyond.

Professional Background

Celia King serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Leadership Newark, Inc., where she manages budgetary matters, leadership development programs, and personnel. She develops curricula focused on public policy enrichment and civic engagement for adults and youth. Celia’s advocacy for civic participation drives her to engage the public in meaningful ways.

Before her current role, Celia spent over 10 years as a healthcare administrator, overseeing behavioral health services, substance abuse, and ambulatory care. She also served as a Councilwoman and Deputy Mayor of Maplewood, NJ.

Personal Interests and Community Involvement

Celia enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, and savoring great food. She is a natural sounding board for many and is always willing to lend a helping hand.

Her extensive board service includes roles with the Brick Education Network, Prospect Presbyterian Church, Marion P. Thomas Charter School Foundation, and Newark Emergency Services for Families, among others. Celia holds a Master’s degree from Milano The New School University for Management and Urban Policy and completed her undergraduate studies at Syracuse University.

Legacy of Empowerment

Celia King’s life of service, leadership, and community building exemplifies the essence of high-value women. Her tireless efforts to empower others, foster inclusivity, and cultivate future leaders have left an indelible mark on the Newark community and beyond. Through her work with Leadership Newark and her unwavering commitment to servant leadership, Celia continues to inspire and uplift those around her, making a lasting impact on the world.