Halema Salama Gaber Community Impact Recipients​​

Nadine Badwan 2024

Nadine Badwan is an aspiring educator from Beit Sureek, Palestine, and is pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) at Montclair State University in elementary and special education. She is dedicated to creating inclusive learning environments that inspire students of all abilities to grow and succeed academically and socially. Nadine’s goal is to inspire curiosity, confidence, and resilience in her students.  Beyond her academic pursuits, Nadine is civically engaged in her community. She organized Wayne, New Jersey’s first Ramadan Hilal Lighting this year, bringing people together to celebrate and promote cultural and religious diversity in her town. Additionally, she serves as a weekend school teacher at the Islamic Center of Passaic County, where she helps nurture young learners and educate them about their faith and Arabic. Nadine also volunteers her time supporting events organized by Students for Justice in Palestine on campus and PACC, further advocating for social justice and raising awareness about Palestinian issues. Her dedication to equity and community makes her a passionate advocate for meaningful change.