March 6, 2026
The Center for Natural Resources (CNR) at NJIT recently met with City of Paterson officials, including Mayor Andre Sayegh, to showcase the Center’s research activities and initiatives.
The meeting was led by CNR Director Dr. Michel Boufadel, and it brought together NJIT researchers, city officials, and community partners to discuss sustainability, natural resource management, and flood resilience measures.
The discussion highlighted opportunities for collaboration and the role of research-driven solutions in addressing local environmental and infrastructure challenges.
(Left to right): Chief Alex Alicea (Chief of the Fire Department in Paterson), Samantha Berkenbosch, Ahmad Ibrahim, Dr. Viravid (Gunn) Na Nagara, Pola A. Szwaczka, Andre Sayegh (Mayor of Paterson), Maria Nour Assi, Dr. Michel C. Boufadel, Jimenna Alcantar, Troy Ayers (Head of OEM Services in Paterson), Tamjidul Islam Illin, Md. Azmain Rahman, Gregory Mendez. 
Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh and Dr. Michel C. Boufadel during the meeting introducing the Center for Natural Resources and its research initiatives. 
City officials and NJIT representatives discussing the Center’s research activities and opportunities for collaboration in Paterson.
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