Community Engagement

Barry R. Devone III, MPA is a dedicated advocate for community engagement whose career spans both the public and private sectors. With more than two decades of experience, he has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to strengthening community ties, advancing equity, and fostering positive change.

As the Community Engagement Officer for Orange Township Public Schools, Barry plays a pivotal role in connecting families, educators, and community partners to ensure students have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. He has secured and managed more than $15 million in public and private sector grants, including major federal and state programs such as the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers and Full-Service Community Schools grants. His expertise in designing, writing, and administering multi-million-dollar funding streams has been instrumental in creating sustainable programs that transform schools and communities.

Beyond the district, Barry serves as Chairman of the Board for the Greater Essex Community Uplift Foundation, Inc. (GECUF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in East Orange, NJ. Under his leadership, the foundation has expanded its reach across Greater Essex County and beyond, addressing critical needs through youth development, scholarships, health initiatives, and social service partnerships. He has led successful fundraising initiatives that mobilize resources and partnerships to drive measurable impact. In 2025, Barry guided a coalition of community-based organizations and international partners to fund and complete a borehole project in Mbanaayili, Ghana, addressing long-standing water scarcity and providing thousands of residents with sustainable access to clean water.

In addition to his public service, Barry brings valuable private-sector experience from the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, where he built cross-functional teams, forged strategic partnerships, and managed complex initiatives. This background, coupled with more than three decades of grassroots volunteer service, has equipped him with the skills to unite diverse stakeholders around shared goals for community advancement.

Whether locally or abroad, Barry Devone embodies the spirit of community engagement. His leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication have earned him the respect of colleagues, community members, and organizations alike. His journey is a testament to the power of service, demonstrating how one individual—anchored in purpose and collaboration—can inspire change and improve lives on a local and global scale.