Rider University alumnus Gregory Lorjuste (Class of ’04) of Trenton was one of 10 individuals nationwide recently selected to participate in “Yes We Can,” a national Democratic campaign management and training program founded by Illinois Sen. Barack Obama and run by his administrative fundraising arm, Hopefund.

The program’s goal is to expand opportunities for African American and Latinos in political campaigns across the country. Obama’s ongoing mission is to identify and create teams of talented campaign staffers who gradually build experience in all areas of campaigns and who will continue to work in politics over an extended period of time.

“Being selected and a part of the first graduating class of this program has been an amazing experience for me; adding on the fact that the program is chaired by U.S. Senator Barack Obama,” said Lorjuste, an elementary education/American studies major while at Rider. “During the training, I had the privilege to speak to Sen. Obama on two occasions. Both times, he showed great interest in learning about what inspires me and expressed gratitude for me being a part of his vision with the program. I think he is a remarkable individual and I consider him a role model.”

While working on the gubernatorial campaign for then-senator, Jon Corzine, Lorjuste’s supervisor suggested that he apply for the program due to his confidence in Lorjuste’s abilities. In addition to demonstrating a strong desire to get involved in the political process, Lorjuste had to submit an essay and go through a rigorous phone interview with staff members of the program.

While in Washington, DC, for a week in late January, Lorjuste spent most of his time at the Democratic National Headquarters. Working mainly with four other program participants as a team, he learned campaign techniques from several key political operatives in a classroom setting during the day. Each evening, he had opportunities to use his skills in campaign simulations of a mock congressional race. Lorjuste’s team won the final presentation competition.

His goal is to become an educator, yet not necessarily in the classroom. Since graduating from Rider, he began working for the New Jersey Commission on National and Community Service. In his current position as a program officer, he provides technical assistance to 16 AmeriCorps Programs throughout New Jersey.

Lorjuste excelled while at Rider, holding various leadership positions in the Black Student Union (BSU), Student Government Association (SGA), Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, and the Intercultural Greek Council (IGC). He enrolled at Rider through its Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

Although not initially interested in attending college, Lorjuste contemplated going after the prodding of family members. Rubin Joyner, director of Rider’s EOP program, met with Lorjuste during a campus visit. “He said he would give me the opportunity if I was committed to succeeding,” said Lorjuste. “Rubin showing an interest in me led me to Rider.”

Dean of Students Anthony Campbell had the biggest impact on him, Lorjuste maintains. “He saw flashes of leadership in me and pushed me to get involved and become a part of the Rider community. He coached me through a series of problems and situations and never let me give up hope. To this day, I consult with him on important decisions I make in my life. I truly believe that the experience I had at Rider has molded me into the person I am today.

“My passion for getting involved in politics has increased dramatically due to the leadership positions and experiences I have gained throughout as well as after college,” said Lorjuste. “I realize as a young Haitian American man, I can make a difference in my community.”

Lorjuste plans to one day establish his own community-based foundation to help people with political, education and community issues. “I want to help people understand the importance of getting involved in politics and help qualified candidates win,” he said.

Yes We Can is now accepting applications for the June training in Washington, DC. For information, please go to www.hopefundamerica.com/yeswecan or call Tori L. Scarborough at 202-543-4673.