COMMISSIONER YRAIDA APONTE-LIPSKI

Yraida Aponte-Lipski always had a passion for public service, particularly public health. From an early age, while living in the Dominican Republic, she witnessed families and her community suffer from inadequate healthcare. She decided to do something about it, so she went to dental school; but, dental school became too financially burdensome for her family. Yraida came to the United States seeking educational and economic opportunities. She worked during the day and attended school at night. Yraida’s hard work paid off. She earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in dental hygiene, a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, and a Master of Public Health degree. Yraida puts this knowledge to work for the good of our community.

Yraida was a professor and clinical instructor at Eastern International College in Journal Square. She received many praises and awards for the work she did to promote health care in our community. One clear example of her work in the community was the ongoing partnerships she arranged with local schools and senior citizen residences to have their populations go to Eastern International College for free dental screenings and cleanings. Currently, Yraida is the Central Regional Coordinator for the New Jersey Department of Health’s Children’s Oral Health Program, which is comprised of nine counties.

Yraida is an active member of the Hispanic Dental Association and the New Jersey Dental Hygiene Association, where she sits on a committee that advocates for improved dental services for seniors and children.

Yraida is an ethical person. One of the courses she taught at Eastern International College was Ethics and Law. She loved teaching this course because it gave her an opportunity to share with her students’ ways to live and grow ethically. Yraida, also, attends and volunteers at her church on a regular basis, putting into practice what she believes.   

Married since 1993 to former councilman Steve Lipski, they have resided in Commissioner District 4 since 1995. Yraida has served as the elected Democratic Committeewoman in Ward C, District 23 for many terms. She currently is Vice Chairwoman for the Jersey City Democratic Organization. She is a member of the Friends of Liberty State Park, Serra Club, and Loyal Order of the Moose. She was awarded the “Service Above Self” community service award from the Rotary Club of Jersey City, and she was an honoree for the Jersey City St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, the Jersey City Dominican Parade Committee, the Jersey City West Indian Caribbean-American Carnival Association, and the Philippine American Friendship Community (PAFCOM) parade committee. Her activity in the community is what has prompted her to want to seek elected office.

Yraida has worked hard in our community. She has shown what hard work can achieve. She now wants to share her talents and put her skills to use for the people of Commissioner District 4.