New Jersey Educator Named Enterprising Woman in Commerce
Bergen Community College dean Mi Na Ahn earns recognition for her professional impact in the state.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in People
The Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey honored Mi Na Ahn as an Enterprising Woman in Commerce during an August 2026 ceremony. Ahn, who serves as the dean of business and social sciences at Bergen Community College, was the sole community college representative among the group of honorees.
Why it matters
The annual awards program highlights women who demonstrate significant influence and leadership within New Jersey's professional sectors. Recognition for Ahn acknowledges her nearly two decades of service and her work in fostering educational initiatives like the Center for Community Learning.
The Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey selected 42 recipients for this year's program, which has run for 6 years. Mi Na Ahn, who holds a Ph.D. in psychology, represents the only honoree drawn from the community college system.
The players
Mi Na Ahn
She is the dean of business and social sciences at Bergen Community College and the founder of the institution's Center for Community Learning.
Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey
This trade association represents the interests of the business community in New Jersey and coordinates the annual awards program.
The details
Ahn accepted the award at a breakfast event held in Glen Ridge this past August. Her professional background includes academic roles at Bergen Community College and advanced degrees from the University of California, Santa Barbara and the University of California, Riverside.
Timeline
The awards program was established by the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey 6 years ago.
Ahn accepted the honor at a ceremony in August 2026.
Market Landscape
This recognition follows the annual cycle of the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey's Enterprising Women in Commerce awards program. It highlights how educational leadership is increasingly valued alongside traditional corporate contributions within the state's professional landscape.
Readers interested in higher education trends or professional development in New Jersey can view full profiles of all 42 honorees in the special edition of COMMERCE Magazine. This annual highlight identifies the diverse range of women shaping the state's academic and business sectors.
The takeaway
The selection of a community college dean reflects a broader trend of acknowledging academic administrators as key figures in professional commerce. Professionals looking for inspiration can follow the career paths of these recognized leaders to understand the diverse trajectories within the state.
Further reading
Find more profiles of state leaders in the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New City Daily Voice.
