Ward A Councilwoman Denise Ridley is a life-long Jersey City resident and community servant.  She graduated cum laude from Hampton University in 2005 earning a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Spanish.  While at Hampton, Denise participated in many campus organizations, community service activities, and political campaigns.  After graduating from Hampton University, she furthered her studies at Montclair State University earning a Masters degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.  While at Montclair, Denise was trained in many areas of this field such as job analysis, talent management, training development, and executive coaching.  She has provided pro bono executive coaching as well as developed new job descriptions, performance management structures, and discipline policies for companies in the pharmaceutical and education industries.  While earning this degree, she continued her career in the pharmaceutical industry and currently serves as a marketing professional at a leading generic drug company.  Ms. Ridley is also a licensed real estate agent in the state of New Jersey. 

Denise has worn many hats over the years.  This is clearly displayed by her involvement in service organizations and community concerns.  The Councilwoman is currently a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, and Rotary Club.  She serves on the school board for Marist High School and is also a member of the Jersey City Public Safety Review Board.  She was elected Committeewoman for Jersey City’s Ward A District 32 in June 2013 and re-elected in the 2015 and 2017 elections.  She has organized many outreach programs such as coat drives, food distributions, and prison outreach.  

Councilwoman Ridley is determined to make Ward A better through collaborating with residents and she believes in an inclusive approach to government.  She truly believes service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.