Professors Justin Freedman and A.J. Ernst grew up together in New Jersey, where they learned how helping others can be grounding, rewarding, and ultimately shape their lives.  As teenagers, they launched The Community of Lawrence, a nonprofit that links young people with local, mission-driven organizations, including park cleanups, a food pantry, blood drives, and service projects that drew hundreds of volunteers. In 2009, they received the Rebecca Annitto Award for outstanding achievement in public and community service from the Princeton Area Community Foundation.

That early blueprint—connection → purpose → meaning—now underpins all of their work. At Rowan University, Justin is a professor, special education advocate, and community builder who designs systems that enable overlooked students to flourish. A.J., a former teacher and principal turned policy analyst, builds access-focused programs that translate evidence into everyday practice. Together, they help young people, families, and institutions reorient toward meaningful lives.