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2022 01 05 There’s A World Of Haiku On A Single Corner In Camden (Photo)

There’s a world of haiku on a single corner in Camden

By The Philadelphia Inquirer, Kevin Riordan, January 5, 2022

The Nick Virgilio Writers House is where poets read, write, study, teach, and talk about the latest iterations of the 17th-century Japanese verse form called haiku. And that’s just on the second floor.

The first floor of what was once a medical office on Broadway near Ferry Avenue is home to the Camden branch of Mighty Writers, an after-school program focused on literacy, creativity, and, since the pandemic, food distribution.

“There’s a lot going on here,” said poet and Writers House program designer Savannah Cooper-Ramsey, who last year posted a call for haiku submissions on social media that drew contributions from 16 countries. Selections are showcased in the Writers House’s latest anthology, Haiku in Action.

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Dennis Hayes,
Vice President

Dennis Hayes joined Camden Community Partnership in May 2024 as Vice President, bringing over twenty-five years of project and team management experience to the organization. Dennis is a highly skilled professional whose subject matter expertise is in several areas including Construction Management, Facility Operations, Communications Systems (Telecommunications and Land Mobile Radio), Energy Solutions, Public Safety Agency Operations, Homeland Security, Regulatory Affairs, Land Use, and Environmental Engineering. His portfolio reflects CCP’s economic development, infrastructure, transportation, and sustainability projects and initiatives.

Dennis has managed multi-million dollar projects throughout the State of New Jersey, most recently serving as Senior Project Manager for STV overseeing the construction of the Joint Health Sciences Center which is a 100,000 square-foot biomedical research facility that is home to Rowan University, Rutgers University-Camden, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden County College and the Rowan University/Rutgers-Camden Board of Governors. The project was estimated at $75 million infusing investment into the Downtown Camden EDs and MEds corridor. Before the Joint Health Sciences Center, his portfolio also included managing the semi-historic renovation of the Rowan Camden Campus Bank Building. The project involved the renovation of a four-story granite/marble atrium originally constructed in 1928, renovation of the 5 th story from office space to academic space, renovation of a 3-story Annex structure from office space to academic space, and the construction of a 3-story multipurpose space at the rear of the original building.

Dennis previously worked for Economic Project Solutions as a Senior Construction Project Manager, whose responsibilities included daily oversight of multiple construction projects, including client meetings, project schedule maintenance, budget tracking, business process analysis, and report generation. While at EPS, Dennis managed the construction of an Urgent Care Facility for Chemed in Lakewood, NJ; three medical lab renovations for Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health in New Brunswick, NJ; the initial programming of Jersey City University Business School Expansion, and assisted in managing the historic renovation of the Lowe’s Theatre in Jersey City.

Dennis Hayes holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Studies from the Richard H. Stockton State College and several CEUs from Rutgers University-New Brunswick and the University of Toledo College of Engineering. He is OSHA 30 Certified, NJ Licensed N2 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, Subsurface Evaluator, and Underground Storage Tank Closure Certified (NJDEP), HEP Certified – US Fish and Wildlife Service, NJ Certified Tree Expert, and Certified Arborist – International Society of Arboriculture.

Alex Darling,
Senior Project Manager

Alex Darling joined Camden Community Partnership in May 2024 as Senior Project Manager, bringing a track record of success in both the public and private sectors. In this role, he currently manages the Camden Works Initiative, the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia’s “Reinventing Our Communities” Camden Cohort Workforce Equity Planning effort, and the Camden Health and Athletic Association in addition to addressing the Digital Divide in Camden, NJ. Alex’s portfolio is reflective of CCP’s focus on advancing equity and working to improve the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) throughout the city.

Alex previously served as Aide to Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen and Department Head for the Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services, where he acted as a liaison to federal, state, and local agencies, working directly with residents to connect them to services offered by government agencies and organizations. Alex identified emerging community issues and trends, often conducting site visits for resident concerns or participating in community outreach activities. His strategic thinking and dedication to process improvement were evident as he monitored case trends to propose recommendations for enhancing services.

Alex played a pivotal role in launching the City’s "My Camden NJ" mobile app, a comprehensive citizen engagement solution that provides residents with a user-friendly, digital gateway to access city services, report problems, and engage with their community. This experience underscores his commitment to advancing community engagement, effective communication, and innovation for the betterment of Camden and its residents.

Before his tenure with the City of Camden, Alex worked in the private sector for Holman Automotive, one of the largest integrated automotive service companies in North America. There, Alex focused on achieving business-related objectives for a portfolio of high-impact strategic accounts. His work involved developing and implementing tailored strategies to meet client needs, and collaborating closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure client satisfaction and success. Alex's ability to build strong relationships and deliver results for these key clients highlights his expertise in managing complex projects and driving business growth.

Prior to Holman Automotive, Alex worked for the Center for Family Services, a leading nonprofit social services provider, where he spearheaded the creation of a digital employee hub to foster employee inclusion and engagement across the organization's extensive network. This initiative helped improve internal communication and collaboration, ultimately enhancing the organization's ability to serve the community.

Alex holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Temple University's Fox School of Business in 2017.

Gerald C. Seneski, CPA,
Chief Financial Officer

Gerald “Gerry” Seneski joined Camden Community Partnership in April 2025 as the Chief Financial Officer, overseeing the nonprofit’s financial health and operations.

Mr. Seneski holds multiple professional licenses, including Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Registered Municipal Accountant (RMA), and Licensed Public-School Accountant (PSA). He is also a Certified County Finance Officer and Certified Municipal Finance Officer. Prior to joining CCP, Gerry served as the Chief Financial Officer for the City of Camden, where he is credited with preparing, introducing, and managing an annual municipal operating budget of $210 million, which supports various public services such as fire, police, public works, and other city departments.

Because of his strong fiscal management practices and internal controls, he positioned Camden for an investment bond credit rating upgrade from an A- to an A in 2024, which sends a signal to investors regarding the city’s stable outlook. Throughout his career, Gerry has served as CFO and Administrator for several cities, towns, and governmental units, including North Brunswick, Cinnaminson, Cumberland County, Rowan College of South Jersey, and as the former Assistant Director at the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Division of Local Governmental Services.

Among his notable accomplishments, Gerry has served as the President of the NJ Government Finance Officers Association and is active in the Government Accounting & Auditing Interest Group of the NJ Society of CPAs. He previously held a position on the Executive Board of the NJ Association of Counties (CFO Affiliates) and was a member of the Legislative Advisory Board for the New Jersey League of Municipalities.

Without question, Gerry Seneski brings a wealth of financial experience and business acumen to the position of CFO for Camden Community Partnership, with over 35 years of service in the public and private sectors. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Accounting Major, and a Master of Public Administration from Widener University, Chester, Pennsylvania.

Robert Corrales,
Vice Manager

Robert Corrales joined Camden Community Partnership as Vice President in 2023, supporting the organization’s community and economic development initiatives. Mr. Corrales oversees a diverse project portfolio including but not limited to park rehabilitation and restoration, Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit (NRTC) programs, workforce development efforts, special events, and related economic development initiatives. He brings nearly twenty-two years of executive management and public relations experience in State and local government.

Prior to joining Camden Community Partnership, Mr. Corrales served as Township Manager for Evesham Township. In this role, he was charged with overseeing the day-to-day operations of the largest municipality in Burlington County. Under his leadership, the Township successfully preserved 187 acres of land from the threat of overdevelopment. Mr. Corrales’ notable accomplishments also included working with developers to ensure ongoing Township projects remained on track and under budget, developing a capital improvement plan for parks and open space, successfully negotiating three labor contracts for the Township, and spearheading new public communication initiatives to broaden resident outreach and service delivery.

Robert previously served as Business Administrator for the City of Camden, responsible for overseeing all Department Heads, developing and managing an annual municipal budget totaling approximately $185 million, instituting sound fiscal controls and budgetary practices, as well as, implementing regulatory and statutory mandates. As a result of his leadership and executive management experience, Mr. Corrales assisted the Mayor by formulating public policy which helped set the stage for the transition of the Camden Police Department to the Camden County Police Department, achieved the first investment grade bond rating in decades, and paved the way for public-private investment totaling more than $2 billion.

Working for New Jersey state government, Robert Corrales has served as Press Secretary to Governor Jon S. Corzine, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications for the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) and Public Information Officer for the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL).

Robert received his Master’s Degree in Labor and Employment Relations and his B.A. in Labor Studies from Rutgers University.

Lahy Amman,
Project Manager

Lahy Amman joined Camden Community Partnership as a Project Management Intern in June 2024 and became a full-time Project Manager in July 2025. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Masters in City Planning in May 2025. Lahy manages several large-scale park construction projects including renovations to some of the city’s premier public spaces: Wiggins Waterfront Park, Roosevelt Plaza Park, Sheila Roberts Park, and 7th and Clinton Park. He also provides research, data analysis, and GIS support for projects ranging from public art installations, park activations and events, and home repair and development programs. His background in planning helps him support CCP’s work as part of the Reimagining the Civic Commons initiative to develop a transformative, long-term model for parks activation and maintenance in Camden. Lahy leverages his previous grant writing experience to support CCP’s fundraising efforts, drafting grant applications for new and continuing funding streams to support park construction, climate resilience, and public art projects.

Nakia Maxwell,
Office Manager

Nakia joined Camden Community Partnership in 2000. With over 22 years of service, Nakia has emerged as Office Manager for the organization, providing staff support and management, maintaining administrative systems, implementing office policies, and overseeing human resources. Nakia is a Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) and holds a Certificate in Organizational Management from the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). A lifelong resident of Camden, NJ, Nakia assists the team in advancing the mission and mandate of the organization.

Jahmara Smith,
Project Manager

Jahmara Smith joined Camden Community Partnership as a Project Management Intern in the Fall of 2022. She became a full-time Project Manager in 2023 upon graduating from the Rutgers University-Camden School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, with a minor in Digital Marketing. Jahmara manages a diverse project portfolio including the organization’s Message, Media, and Communications, the Camden Works Initiative – connecting residents to local job opportunities, and the Camden Loop which is an affordable on-demand micro-transit service designed to reduce transportation barriers for Camden residents by connecting them to employment and other social determinants of health risk factors such as a full-service grocery store option. Focused on brand equity for nonprofits, Jahmara is a skilled graphic designer and content generator who works to raise CCP brand awareness and engagement to strengthen the relationship between the organization’s initiatives and Camden residents. She manages Camden Community Partnership’s social media platforms and websites including Camden Community Partnership, Camden Invincible weekly electronic newsletter, Camden Works, Camden Works Job Board, Camden Collaborative Initiative, and Connect the Lots-Camden.

Brian Fisher,
Project Manager

Brian Fisher joined Camden Community Partnership as a Project Management Intern in September 2022 and became a full-time Project Manager in April 2023 upon graduating from Rutgers University-Camden with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Urban Studies. Brian comes to the organization with prior experience in planning and development in urban cities, including the Township of Irvington and the City of Camden. He formerly interned for the Camden Redevelopment Agency where Brian assisted in creating redevelopment plans, site surveys, and distribution plans, in addition to collecting demographic data and preparing related reports. Today, Brian Fisher manages over $3 million in trails and parks construction projects including overseeing the construction of the Elijah Perry Park in the Centerville Neighborhood, the installation of newly refurbished outdoor basketball courts at Farnham Park in Parkside, design and construction of the River Birch Trails, in addition to Camden Community Partnership’s Camden Night Gardens, an event that draws over 5,000 residents each year. Brian Fisher is currently enrolled at Temple University, pursuing a graduate degree in City and Regional Planning.

Joseph Myers,
COO

Joseph graduated with a Bachelor of Political Science from the College of New Jersey in 1998 and from the University of Pennsylvania with a Master of Governmental Affairs and a Master of Political Science in 2000. Joe began working at Camden Community Partnership (CCP) as a graduate intern in 1999, became a full-time project manager upon graduation in the spring of 2000, and was promoted to COO/VP in October of 2009 and tasked with overseeing the development and neighborhood operations in the office.

Joe has dedicated his time working on several downtown projects, which include the Camden Children's Garden, new infrastructure around Adventure Aquarium, and the Aquarium Fountain Park. Joe works closely with the private sector on planning the build out of the remaining downtown waterfront and also in North Camden with Save Our Waterfront on park design and neighborhood planning.

He serves on the board of CAMConnect and Heritage Collaborative as well as volunteering with Sacred Heart Athletics. He is also a graduate of Leadership NJ and the Rutgers University's Center for Strategic Urban Leadership Institute.

Dana L. Redd,
President/CEO

Dana Redd is President/CEO of Camden Community Partnership, Inc. a private nonprofit organization whose mission is to serve as the catalyst for the preservation and growth of a vibrant Camden. In this role, Ms. Redd is the key management leader responsible for implementing the strategic plan and managing a diversified special project portfolio, including neighborhood initiatives, public infrastructure, and business development. She is charged with overseeing the administration, annual budget, board development, fundraising, and creating public-private partnerships.

Dana has worked in various positions from local government to the New Jersey State Senate, most recently serving as CEO of the Rowan University/Rutgers-Camden Board of Governors. As former CEO, Ms. Redd was responsible for board operations, construction, and management of a 95,000-square-foot Joint Health Sciences Center. Ms. Redd worked to develop programmatic and policy initiatives that reflected the Board’s mission and overarching objectives of education, economic development, and civic engagement. She led the creation of the innovative South Jersey Institute for Population Health and secured $4.5 million in state funding for new health initiatives, including population health research, workforce development, and STEM training programs for Camden youth.

While serving as Mayor of Camden, she successfully transitioned the city from state takeover to local control. Camden emerged as a national model for urban recovery in America during her tenure. Redd rallied a coalition of citizens, community organizations, faith-based leaders, businesses, universities, healthcare providers, state officials, and local government entities to improve the quality of life for Camden residents.

Under her leadership as mayor, Camden posted significant improvements in public safety statistics with the creation of the Camden County Police Department’s Metro Division and its commitment to community policing. Redd led a full state intervention in the Camden City School District to improve academic outcomes for urban youth. Redd leveraged and attracted $2.5 billion in public/private investment to stimulate economic growth and job creation. Upon completing her term as mayor, Camden achieved a Standard & Poor credit rating of BBB+, a first in more than 15 years.

Before she was elected Camden mayor in 2009, Redd represented New Jersey’s Fifth Legislative District as a state senator, where she served on the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, the Senate Committee for Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens, the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee and the Joint Committee on the Public Schools. She co-sponsored and secured the passage of $3.9 billion in new school construction for New Jersey’s Abbott School Districts. Redd sponsored legislation creating the Homeless Trust Fund.

Dana Redd is a graduate of Rutgers: The State University of New Jersey (Camden Campus) with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Studies. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Human Services Administration from Lincoln University.