Aruna Rani is a higher education facilities professional with more than 15 years of experience across architecture, project management, and facilities operations. At Rutgers University, she oversees a diverse portfolio of capital construction, renovation, and infrastructure projects, balancing budgets, stakeholder priorities, and institutional goals. With a foundation in architecture and an Executive MBA from Rutgers Business School, complemented by her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, Aruna combines design insight with strategic and operational expertise. Her earlier work in higher education in Canada added a broader perspective and a deep appreciation for collaborating across diverse teams and cultures, a value she carries into every project and partnership.
Aruna is equally committed to the community behind the profession. Through NJAPPA, she aligns with and is dedicated to strengthening member engagement, encouraging the exchange of ideas, and supporting the growth of facilities professionals across New Jersey, helping shape a stronger, more connected future for the profession.
Dewarren L. Thomas began his career in Dining Services at Rutgers University in 1998,
where he developed the work ethic and discipline that would shape his professional
journey. Through dedication and determination, he advanced into a General Maintenance
role, gaining hands-on experience across multiple trades. While exposed to many
disciplines, Dewarren knew he wanted to master one craft—and chose electrical work as
his specialty.
Today, Dewarren is a Licensed Electrical Contractor and Certified Journeyman Electrician in
the State of New Jersey, with years of field experience spanning residential, commercial, and
institutional electrical systems. His passion for professional development and continuous
learning has been a driving force throughout his career.
Dewarren lives by the philosophy: “You Can Change Without Growing, But You Can’t Grow
Without Changing
He remains committed to growth, excellence, and using his expertise to educate and serve
others through both his trade and his written work.
where he developed the work ethic and discipline that would shape his professional
journey. Through dedication and determination, he advanced into a General Maintenance
role, gaining hands-on experience across multiple trades. While exposed to many
disciplines, Dewarren knew he wanted to master one craft—and chose electrical work as
his specialty.
Today, Dewarren is a Licensed Electrical Contractor and Certified Journeyman Electrician in
the State of New Jersey, with years of field experience spanning residential, commercial, and
institutional electrical systems. His passion for professional development and continuous
learning has been a driving force throughout his career.
Dewarren lives by the philosophy: “You Can Change Without Growing, But You Can’t Grow
Without Changing
He remains committed to growth, excellence, and using his expertise to educate and serve
others through both his trade and his written work.