When the Princeton-educated Andrea E. Hall Adewale-Adebowale first entered the Newark Water and Sewer Department in 1989, she pioneered an enduring legacy of highly educated women of color in the Newark utility.

Andrea dedicated over 30 years of her life to serving Newark, her home city, rising to lead the Water and Sewer Utility from 2013 until her death in 2018.

“She loved Newark so much,” said Kareem Adeem, who took over the directorship after Andrea’s death. “She loved it so much that after she graduated from Princeton, she came back to her community and made it better.”

**In Memoriam**

**Andrea E. Hall Adewale-Adebowale**
Former Director of Newark Water & Sewer

In that time, she mentored many female scientists and gave talented professionals a chance to launch their career in the water sector and to keep Newark’s drinking water clean and safe.

Her leadership echoes that being a leader, making decisions, and making an impact in the industry is not unique to one gender; women are key players in keeping the water flowing.

In honor of Andrea, we are sharing the invaluable stories of women at Newark Water and Sewer as we celebrate Women’s History Month.

Embedded in their stories are lessons, professional achievements, and narratives of personal growth, worthy of Andrea’s legacy.

Skylar Reed-McMillon

As Principal Engineer at the Pequannock Water Treatment plant, Skylar maintains the purity of Newark’s water. Her projects include the mitigation and control of harmful algal blooms, forest stewardship planning, and ultraviolet treatment feasibility study for drinking water disinfection.

Originally from Louisiana, Skylar grew up near the heart of “Cancer Alley,” bearing witness to the harmful impacts of environmental pollution and natural disasters on the health and safety of her community. Hurricane Katrina displaced her family to Virginia, deeply influencing her outlook on water, the environment, and ultimately, her career path.

“The things I witnessed growing up in Louisiana instilled in me a profound awareness of the critical need for resilient water infrastructure and environmental stewardship,” Skylar said.

**Skylar Reed-McMillon**

Principal Engineer, Newark-Pequannock Water Treatment Plant

She graduated with a degree in chemistry from George Mason University, but was largely influenced by Dr. Wyatt Murphy, the dean of chemistry and biochemistry at Seton Hall University, who introduced to her the crucial role that chemistry plays in water engineering.

Dr. Murphy awarded Skylar an undergraduate fellowship, where she performed research on biomonitoring the 2010 Gulf Coast oil spill.

“This research experience strengthened my understanding of water contamination, pollution pathways and the intricate science behind water treatment technologies,” said Skylar.

She joined Newark’s Department of Water and Sewer as an Environmental Engineer in 2020 and most recently earned a master’s degree in water resource engineering and environmental engineering from Villanova University in 2024.

Skylar recounts, “entering the public sector reinforced my commitment to protecting communities from the very challenges that first inspired me as a child in Louisiana”.

She is thrilled to see an influx of young, diverse professionals like herself in the water industry.

“It’s great having people that relate to you professionally and personally,” Skylar said.

Having faith and trusting the process are two things that kept Skylar motivated in her career and beyond. “Follow your heart. You are on the right path.”

Jackie Brown

In May 1993, Jackie Brown entered the Newark-Pequannock Water Treatment Plant initially as an Administrative Assistant. Then a mother of two young children under four years old, Jackie sought this opportunity to support her family; little did she know it would be the beginning of a lifelong career in water.

Jackie spent two and a half years at Lincoln University’s biology program. Originally pursuing the field of forensic medicine, she pivoted to the water sector, which at the time was at a low point for diversity and representation of women of color; she was the only Black woman and Newark resident on a male-dominated team.

“While this wasn’t the career path I initially envisioned, it became the foundation for a fulfilling and impactful journey in the water industry,” Jackie said.

**Jackie Brown**

Supervising Lab Technician, Newark-Pequannock Water Treatment Plant

Through the encouragement of her mentor, who was also the former superintendent of the Newark water treatment plant, Jackie grew interested in the water treatment process. “My mentor encouraged me to expand my knowledge by enrolling in water and wastewater courses at Essex County College, where they were the instructor. They saw my potential.”

With her mentor’s guidance, Jackie received her NJDEP T-1 water treatment operating license in 2000. Shortly after, she trained in the laboratory setting performing water analysis and is now the supervising lab technician at the plant.

“Every drop of water that flows through our plant undergoes rigorous testing and analysis before reaching the community,” Jackie said. “Working in the lab allowed me to see this firsthand.”

One of the more notable changes in the industry, according to Jackie, is the increased presence of women, a stark contrast to when she first entered the water space.

“It’s inspiring to see the growing diversity and leadership of women in water,” she said. In the future, Jackie is eager to see more water education geared to younger generations.

Jackie stresses the following to young women in the STEM field: “carve out a path for yourself in this world and do not let obstacles or doubts stand in your way.”

Majeedah Shariah

Since adolescence, Majeedah was already connected with the water industry, as both of her parents worked at the City of Newark’s Department of Water and Sewer. Her late stepfather worked for water supply, and her mother served 40 years as a meter reader.

After graduating from University High School in Newark, Majeedah went to Fairleigh Dickinson University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in chemistry and two associate degrees in mathematics and biology.

Majeedah began her career in the biomedical sector processing patient blood; however, she felt uninspired by her work, and decided to break into the water sector.

In January 2013, she was hired as a part-time lab technician at Newark’s water treatment plant, then promoted to full-time chemist at Newark’s water testing and monitoring lab.

**Majeedah Shariah**

Chemist II, Newark Water Testing Lab

Majeedah was an active player in mitigating lead in Newark’s water by analyzing the effectiveness of orthophosphate corrosion control, while the department undertook the Lead Service Line Replacement Program, replacing all 23,192 lead service lines in the city.

“My work contributed to the city in a major way”, Majeedah recounted. “Looking back, I wouldn’t change anything”.

Majeedah noted the lack of representation of black women in STEM fields, which acted as a motivator for her.

“Far too often are qualified women overlooked for positions in STEM. I wanted to be a trailblazer to show that we can contribute to this place and have a seat at the table in navigating water systems.”

Majeedah notes overcoming her fears and doubts in her career journey. “Do it scared. Never let fear deter you from betting on yourself.”

Erica Espiritusanto

Newark born and raised, Erica first took safe drinking water for granted.

“I would open my tap, and water would just come out, but I didn’t know where it came from.”

Attending Newark Vocational High School and later graduating from NJIT with a Mechanical Engineering degree, Erica initially looked for opportunities in the transportation industry before she discovered an opening at Newark Water and Sewer. Since 2020, she has managed HVAC, electrical, security, and safety projects at over 10 facilities in the department.

**Erica Espiritusanto**

Principal Engineer-Mechanical, Newark-Pequannock Water Treatment Plant

Erica credits her family and her Latina heritage in forging her career path.

“My grandfather was an engineer by trade, working in a sugar processing plant in Puerto Rico. He was the guy that everyone called when something needed fixing.”

Erica’s family roots in the skilled trades proved influential in her career trajectory.

“My father is an eyeglass technician; he would let me help him take glasses apart and put them together,” Erica said. “My parents taught my sister and me that if something is broken, try to fix it yourself first.”

Erica encourages young STEM professionals to obtain all the education, degrees, and certificates while they can.

“Schooling gets harder to do while working full-time, so take advantage of the time and resources you have in school or directly after graduation.”

More young professionals are entering the water industry, and Erica is thrilled at the trend. However, she believes there is still work to be done to introduce the water sector and its career opportunities to adolescents.

“It seems to be common that people don’t know about water until they work in water,” Erica says. “There is a large workforce gap, and I want young folks to appreciate water and not take it for granted.”

Marina Shenoda

Born in Alexandria, Egypt, Marina graduated from NJIT with a degree in Civil Engineering in 2020. Beginning her career in the transportation sector, she realized this field did not align with her true interests.

“I was still figuring out where I wanted to take my career. At the time, I didn’t know much about the water industry, but the role offered the impactful, community-centered work I was looking for,” Marina said.

A “turning point” in her career, Marina’s new role introduced her to the world of water and stormwater management, which both challenged and intrigued her. Today, Marina manages several stormwater projects for Newark, such as the Peddie Ditch Netting Facility and the construction of green infrastructure sites in flood zones.

“This role reinforced my passion for water engineering and its potential to address infrastructure needs and benefit communities. Also, being entrusted with the execution of these projects greatly strengthened my confidence,” said Marina.

**Marina Shenoda**

Principal Engineer, Newark Water & Sewer

Marina is an active member of the American Water Works Association (AWWA), where she was recently selected as a recipient of the Utility Young Professional Scholarship.

“This is a huge honor. I was able to prove to myself what I was capable of achieving in the water sector,” Marina said.

Marina credits Director Kareem Adeem with inspiring her to continue her professional growth and development in the water industry.

“His mentorship has shaped my understanding of what strong leadership in the water sector looks like,” says Marina. “He recognized potential in me that I hadn't yet fully realized myself.”

Marina also finds inspiration and motivation from her colleague, Skylar Reed-McMillon. “Seeing her passion at work only reinforces my own aspirations within this industry,” she said.

From her experience, Marina encourages young women like herself to embrace challenge as an opportunity for growth. “The moments that are most difficult often become the most defining in ways you never expected.”

Jianna Kurian

Jianna’s interest in the water sector is a notable family trait, as both her father and grandfather worked at Newark Water and Sewer in STEM positions.

“I am the first female in my family to enter the water sector, and I am happy to follow my family’s footsteps,” Jianna said. “I grew up in Newark, and I practically grew up in the water department. They are family to me.”

**Jianna Kurian**

Chemist I, Newark Water Testing Lab

Jianna is a graduate of Rutgers-Newark with a degree in biology and minors in computer science and chemistry. She decided to stay in the city to give back to her community and took a job as a chemist at the Newark water testing lab in May 2021.

“It is such a privilege to experience the department at a young age and extend that experience by working in my home city,” said Jianna.

Jianna stresses using resources that are at one’s disposal to climb up the career ladder. “Your availability to resources can change in an instant without any warning. Take advantage. With the right mindset, you can learn anything.”

Keishan Lewis

With a degree in biology from Kean University, Keishan initially sought openings in the field of forensic pathology when an opportunity in water arose.

“As a biology major, I appreciated having multiple career options. I welcomed this with open arms,” she said.

Earlier this year, Keishan was hired as a chemist at the Cedar Grove water testing lab. Even in a short time, she understood the weight her work carries in analyzing and monitoring Newark’s water quality.

**Keishan Lewis**

Chemist I, Newark Water Testing Lab

“As someone who was born and raised in Newark, I am grateful to be a part of the work that goes into water testing,” she said.

It excites Keishan to see more women, particularly more women of color, entering the water space. “Seeing women work in a laboratory setting in a male-dominated field is amazing.”

Keishan remembers the role patience played in her career journey thus far.

“It took four years post-graduation to receive the chance to utilize my skills,” says Keishan. “There were moments where I often felt discouraged, but I never gave up on getting a career in STEM. Have patience, and your time will come.”

Busra Anil

Busra’s journey in the water sector began quite recently. After graduating with a degree in Earth & Environmental Sciences from Montclair State University, Busra knew she wanted to work in a lab environment. She was elated to find an opportunity to do so as a chemist at Newark Water and Sewer’s water testing lab.

“Water is an important business,” Busra said. “Working in an environment where I aid the process of providing quality drinking water to Newark citizens is extremely gratifying.”

Originally from West Haven, Conn., Busra moved to New Jersey in 2012 and has proudly planted her roots in Newark’s water space.

**Busra Anil**

Chemist I, Newark Water Testing Lab

She acknowledges the many female voices and perspectives that have influenced her career path, such as her sisters and her Earth Science professors.

Reflecting on her path thus far, Busra pushes for other young women to leap forward into opportunity instead of holding back.

“Stop overthinking and go for the opportunities despite the fear of inadequacy. Rejection surpasses wasted potential any day”, she said.

Busra is excited to launch her early career in water with the City of Newark and looks forward to learning and growing with the Water and Sewer team.

“My female coworkers continue to teach me new things every day”.

The stories of women at Newark Water and Sewer point to the influence of Andrea that lives on. We recognize their contributions not just for Women’s History Month, but today, tomorrow, and every day, as they keep the water flowing for over 300,000 people in Newark and beyond.