Student Leadership:
Gianna Rivera // State Board Chair
Gianna is a junior at Rutgers University-Camden, majoring in political science. As well as being on the statewide board, she also serves as the chapter chair of the Rutgers-Camden NJPIRG chapter. She got involved with NJPIRG her freshman year, working as the Save the Bees campaign coordinator. Since then, she has worked on the Waste is Out of Fashion Campaign, focusing on campus engagement, leadership development, and recruitment. In her free time, Gianna loves to read, try new restaurants, and does hot Pilates.
Anel Mata-Payerro // State Board Vice Chair
Anel is a junior at Rutgers University-Newark pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and a minor in Marketing. She joined NJPIRG in the Spring semester of her freshman year as a visibility intern, hoping to exercise her skills in non-profit marketing and get involved with the community. Before becoming chair of the Newark chapter, Anel was the Visibility/Media Coordinator, where she worked to raise NJPIRG’s visibility on campus through weekly posts, funny Insta Reels, and flyers around campus.
Jason Cordi //State Board Treasurer
Jason Cordi is a Digital Marketing major at Rutgers–Camden and serves as Vice Chair of the campus NJPIRG chapter, where he helps lead the Hunger and Homelessness campaign. He previously interned with the Community FoodBank of New Jersey and is a member of the Rutgers Red Cross Club and the International Business Honor Society. Outside of school, he’s a big basketball fan and supports the Knicks.
Our Staff:
Ori Liwanag // Organizing Director
Ori Liwanag is the Organizing Director for NJPIRG Students. Ori got his start as a chapter student with his PIRG chapter at UC Riverside as an undergraduate before coming onto staff as a Campus Organizer in 2021. In his time on staff, Ori has helped register thousands of students to vote, win policies reducing plastic pollution, and advocate for strengthening protections for our oceans. In his spare time, Ori enjoys rock climbing and live music.
Dan Xie // Political Director
Dan began her career in college as a student leader with CALPIRG, where she helped to bring high-speed rail to California. In her current role she directs the national political strategy for the Student PIRGs. She advises staff and students on strategic campaign plans and amplifies our work with coalition partners and at conferences. Dan has managed successful campaigns to cap global warming pollution, fight the high cost of higher education, and make voting more accessible for students. Dan lives in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she is an avid cyclist and climber.