Rebecca Shulman, senior program director at Jewish Vocational Service of MetroWest (JVS), has recently been elected as chairperson of the New Jersey State Rehabilitation Council (SRC).
The SRC is a partnership of persons with disabilities, advocates, and other interested persons. It is committed to ensuring through policy development, implementation, and advocacy that New Jersey has a vocational rehabilitation program that is not only comprehensive and consumer-responsive but also effective, efficient, and significantly-funded. The SRC is dedicated to ensuring that persons with disabilities receive rehabilitation services that result in employment. The council is created under state law and the Federal Rehabilitation Act, and its members are appointed by the governor.
The SRC acts in an advisory capacity to the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (NJDVRS), particularly on the extent, scope, and effectiveness of vocational rehabilitation services provided across the state. SRC activities focus on the following areas:
- Advise and assist in preparation of the state plan for vocational rehabilitation services
- Review and analyze the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with, vocational rehabilitation services
- Report to the governor and the U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration on the status of the vocational rehabilitation program
- Hold hearings and forums as necessary to carry out the duties of the council
Michael Andreas, Jewish Vocational Service executive director, stated, “We at JVS are extremely proud that our own Rebecca Shulman has been elected to such a prestigious statewide leadership position. I cannot think of anyone more qualified to lead a group dedicated to ensuring the effectiveness of vocational rehabilitation programs in New Jersey—nor anyone more passionate in their advocacy of the growing population these programs serve.”
“The State Rehabilitation Council is made up of a very diverse group of individuals representing businesses, advocates, consumers of service and professionals who care deeply about the DVRS program and the individuals served by Agency staff throughout New Jersey. It is my honor to serve as chairperson of this Council,” Shulman commented.
Prior to joining JVS in 2007, Shulman enjoyed a 34-year career with the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, progressing from counselor to field chief. She has a master’s degree in Counseling and Personnel Services from Jersey City State College (now, New Jersey City State University), is licensed by the State of New Jersey, and is a nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor.