WAYNE, N.J. — Carol Cuadrado was sworn in as Associate Vice President for Government and University Relations at William Paterson University on September 25 in a ceremony held at Hobart Manor. The oath was administered by His Excellency Luis Abinader, President of the Dominican Republic.
The event was attended by a number of distinguished guests, including First Lady Raquel Arbaje Soneh de Abinader, William Paterson University President Richard J. Helldobler, and various local and state officials, such as Congresswomen Nellie Pou and Analilia Mejía, Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie, and City of Passaic Mayor Héctor Lora.
Cuadrado, who expressed her heartfelt gratitude particularly to José Francisco Santana Suriel, the Dominican Republic’s Consul General in New Jersey, noted that his leadership was crucial in facilitating President Abinader’s visit to New Jersey. She also highlighted Santana Suriel’s role in assisting her dreams of obtaining dual citizenship, which she described as deeply significant for her and her family.
Born in Paterson, New Jersey, to Dominican parents, Cuadrado has maintained a strong connection to her roots throughout her life. She graduated from William Paterson University under the name Carol Martinez Ortega. Reflecting on the ceremony, she described it as a poignant moment that linked her American upbringing with her Dominican heritage.
At 17, she was photographed in front of Hobart Manor, and on this occasion, she returned to the same setting as a university administrator, further reinforcing the bond she has with both her alma mater and her family’s homeland.
During her time at William Paterson, Cuadrado was active in campus life as part of the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program. She served as a resident assistant, participated in the Organization of Latin American Students, and contributed to student government activities. Her commitment to cultural events continued as an alumna; in 2012, she brought renowned merengue artist Johnny Ventura to campus.
The visit by President Abinader was not only a significant personal event for Cuadrado but also served as a tribute to José Francisco Peña Gómez, a notable advocate for dual citizenship for Dominicans abroad, as part of the country’s constitutional reform in 1994. This historical context resonated with Cuadrado, who has family roots in the Dominican Republic dating back to the late 1960s.
Cuadrado’s dual nationality was recognized in a venue that has played a pivotal role in her life, connecting her educational journey and familial history. She continues to work at William Paterson University, where her family ties and her connection to the institution are deeply intertwined.
