June 2026
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’ S REPORT
Mitchell C. Sklar, Esq.
In Appreciation
Every year, the calendar brings change— a new President sworn in, a new Fourth Vice President welcomed, the steady rhythm that has defined this association for 114 years. But some years carry more weight than others. This is one of them.
By the time we gather for the September NJSACOP State Chiefs Briefing, three of the most consequential figures in our association ' s recent history will have retired: Past Presidents Ray Hayducka, John Russo, and Ed Kerr. And before that, we say farewell to a President whose tenure has left a clear mark on this organization.
Chief Andrew Caggiano steps down from the presidency this month, transitioning to his new role as Immediate Past President on the Board. His time leading this association has been defined by the same steady, purposeful leadership he brought to every challenge— never loud for the sake of it, always focused on what actually moves the needle. The presidency changes hands, but the association is better for his having held it, and we ' re fortunate his voice stays at the table.
Anyone who has spent time around this organization knows what Chiefs Hayducka, Russo, and Kerr have meant to it— not just in title, but in the daily, unglamorous work of showing up. As Executive Director, I ' ve had a front-row seat to what most members never see: the committee work, the late conversations, the judgment calls made quietly in service of their colleagues and their profession. That vantage point has made me appreciate each of them even more.
Ed Kerr leads with his heart— for his family, for this profession, for the officers he ' s spent a career standing beside. That kind of devotion isn ' t manufactured, and it leaves a mark.
John Russo brought passion, energy and professionalism to this Board from his very first meeting and never let up. The room will feel different without him.
And Ray Hayducka? We named an award after the man. That ' s not something that happens often, and it doesn ' t happen by accident. Ray has earned the kind of reputation— professional and personal— that most people only aspire to.
I ' ve been fortunate to have all four as advisors, collaborators, and friends. The retirements of Ray, John, and Ed are a genuine loss for this Board, and a genuine gain for everyone who gets more of their time going forward. As for Chief Caggiano— the title changes, but the commitment clearly doesn ' t. They ' ve all more than earned what comes next.
New Jersey Police Chief Magazine / 6