Not For Profit. Independent. Fact Based.
About NJ21st
NJ21st, Inc. is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(4) civic journalism organization founded in 2021 and formally incorporated in the State of New Jersey in 2025. We are committed to increasing transparency and accountability within local government, with a focus on New Jersey’s 21st Legislative District.
NJ21st began as a grassroots response to secrecy and misinformation in decision-making, especially around public education, budgeting, and municipal operations. Since then, our work has expanded to cover a broader range of civic issues across multiple communities.
Through independent reporting, public records analysis, and community-driven research, we aim to inform, engage, and empower the public to understand how government really works and who it works for.
Our Value Proposition
We believe that ideological battles and national distractions keep communities divided and away from the more substantive issues affecting their day-to-day lives. NJ21st focuses on local and state government, where decisions are made and money is spent. We show how overlooked local actions shape schools, communities, and rights.
What Sets NJ21st Apart
- We do not take corporate advertising dollars or political funding.
- We publish fact-based, document-backed reporting and analysis.
- We have built a public archive of tools, records, and investigations that anyone can use.
- We train student journalists and empower residents to contribute.
- We translate complex policy into plain language.
- We allow our content to be republished with minimal limitations.
“When people have access to facts and understand the truth, they stop fighting each other and start working together to fix the system.”
NJ21st is a proud member of LION Publishers.
Articles and reporting from NJ21st have been republished or featured by:
NJEducationReport.com – a statewide nonprofit outlet covering education policy, equity, and accountability.
Jersey City Times – a local independent news platform focused on civic engagement, transparency, and community issues in Hudson County.
And referenced by experts in education such as Paul Bennett.
Editorial Team
Laura Kapuscinski
Laura Kapuscinski is a graduate of Seton Hall University with a degree in sociology. Her professional career has been rooted in the non-profit sector, where she specialized in fundraising and event planning. A mother of four, Laura is also a dedicated community volunteer, actively supporting local initiatives and causes.
John Migueis
John Migueis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in advocacy and public policy. He holds a BA in Social Work from Seton Hall University and a Master’s in Social Work from Widener University. John’s work focuses on civic engagement, government accountability, and empowering residents with information that matters.
Shauna Williams
Shauna Williams studied design at the Fashion Institute of Technology and worked as a Senior Designer at the Madame Alexander Doll Company. A mother of four, she has been active in the community as a coach for PAL, Wolfpack cross country and track, and currently serves as Scoutmaster for Troop 368.
