Briann Skiba’s journey from student to healthcare professional, and now Foundation Trustee, is a testament to the lifelong impact of Ocean County College.
Through leadership opportunities, meaningful mentorships, and a commitment to giving back, Briann has built a successful nursing career while remaining deeply connected to the institution that helped shape her future.
For Briann, attending Ocean County College from 2016 to 2018 was one of the most engaging, rewarding, and challenging experiences of her life.
“My success stems from the opportunities OCC gave me that built my confidence and granted me lifelong mentors and supporters. I owe much of my personal and professional success to The OCC Foundation and Student Life, and I strive to pay that success forward to current and future students.”
As a student, Briann immersed herself in campus life, serving as President of the Asian Culture Club and taking advantage of every opportunity offered through Student Life. Through OCC’s 100 Women networking event, she met mentor Teri Kubiel, who helped her secure her first job as a Patient Care Technician. That experience confirmed her passion for nursing and set her on a path toward a rewarding healthcare career.
Briann’s connection to OCC continued long after graduation. She was honored as the student speaker at the 2018 OCC Foundation Gala and later returned as the 2019 Alumni Commencement Speaker. Even while pursuing her bachelor’s degree and advancing her career, she remained actively involved with the College, attending Foundation Galas, participating in fundraisers, and supporting campus initiatives before ultimately joining the Foundation Board of Trustees.
Building a Career in Healthcare
After graduating from OCC, Briann earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing through Stockton University’s accelerated BSN program. During her studies, she conducted research on Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, which led to her role as Co-Investigator on an Institutional Review Board-approved study alongside neonatologist Dr. Alexander Feldman. Their findings were published at the 2022 Eastern Society for Pediatric Research Conference.
Briann began her nursing career as a Registered Nurse on a Telemetry Unit at Community Medical Center, where she has spent more than four years mentoring and precepting new nurses. She recently earned her Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN) credential and has been recognized for her exceptional patient care with three DAISY Awards and the Elizabeth I. Kellogg Nursing Award.
While these achievements are significant, Briann considers serving on the OCC Foundation Board of Trustees among her most meaningful accomplishments.
Giving Back Through Service
Briann serves on the OCC Foundation Board to ensure future students have access to the same life-changing opportunities that were instrumental to her success.
“I serve on the OCC Foundation Board to give students the same opportunities that laid the groundwork for my success in life and to pay forward the kindness my mentors, faculty, alumni, and fellow trustees bestowed upon me.”
Today, she remains committed to serving her community both on and off campus. In addition to her role with the Foundation, Briann serves as Co-Chair of the Nursing Workplace Environment and Staffing Council at Community Medical Center and is a member of the organization’s Emerging Leaders program.
Why OCC Still Feels Like Home
What Briann loves most about OCC is its welcoming and inclusive culture.
“Even though I graduated years ago, I can still walk onto campus and be greeted warmly by professors and staff who remember me. I love the opportunities OCC provides for students, faculty, alumni, and the entire community.”
She also values the College’s strong community partnerships, alumni engagement, and collaborations with organizations such as Community Medical Center and local high schools, all of which help enrich Ocean County.
From student leader to accomplished nurse, researcher, mentor, and Foundation Trustee, Briann’s story reflects the power of education, connection, and service. The OCC Foundation is proud to have Briann Skiba serving on its Board of Trustees and helping create opportunities for the next generation of OCC students.
The Foundation is so glad to have Briann serve on the Foundation Board of Trustees!