Meet The Foundation

A seventy-one-year Hackensack resident, Anthony Marseglia brings over five decades of leadership and service to the community. With a background in Chemical Engineering and a master’s in Mathematics, he served as a teacher and administrator in the Hackensack Public Schools for 33 years, including 11 as Superintendent. His community service includes 43 years as a Rotarian and 50 years as a Trustee of the Johnson Public Library.

Amanda Missey has lived and worked in Hackensack since 1988.  She is currently the CEO of Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative, a non-profit healthcare center that provides free primary care to low-income, working, Bergen County residents who do not have health insurance.  She has served as a trustee of Johnson Public Library since 2021 and is thrilled to help launch the JPL Foundation. 

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Tara has been working in public libraries for over 20 years and has served as the Director of the Johnson Public Library for the past 7 of those years. She is passionate about urban library work, equity, access, and public libraries as third and safe spaces for residents of all ages and backgrounds. Tara loves serving the Hackensack Community and is excited to work with the Foundation to continue providing the City with a modern library.

Vanessa Watts has been a resident of Hackensack for over 23 years and has 30 years of experience in the publishing industry. Currently pursuing her MLIS degree from Syracuse University, she is passionate about ensuring that the Johnson Public Library remains a welcoming and vital community hub for all.

Bio coming soon.​

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Kristi has been involved in her community for decades as both a volunteer and throughout her career.  She is currently a trustee of the Johnson Public Library, where she is serving as the Library Board president.  Her career included working for federal and state officials as well NJ state government agencies.  She is excited about the foundation and its role in helping to update the library to become a more vibrant facility.

Gary has been a resident of Hackensack for 30 years. He started a Home Remodeling Construction Company and sold it after 32 years of service in Hackensack. Gary has also been a Member of the Hackensack Rotary Club since 1990. Having a Degree in Education, he currently works as a Full-Time Substitute Teacher in Fairlawn. Gary looks forward to working with the Johnson Public Library Foundation and the Library Staff.

In 1960, Joe moved from Jersey City to Hackensack, where Fairmount Elementary School inspired his 42-year career in the Hackensack Public School System, culminating as Superintendent in 2017. Fairmount School and The Johnson Public Library have always been central in Joe's life, with the library serving as a lifelong source of inspiration, knowledge, and support throughout his personal and professional journey. Joe is grateful for the opportunity to serve with The Johnson Public Library Foundation and is committed to supporting its mission to keep the library a modern, vibrant, and vital resource for Hackensack.