Diane Raver of the New Jersey Film Academy Headlines GOTCC Monthly Business & Breakfast

Ocean, NJ – The Greater Ocean Township Chamber of Commerce (GOTCC) welcomed Diane Raver, Executive Director of the New Jersey Film Academy as a keynote speaker at its monthly Business & Breakfast event Thursday, February 26, at the Residence Inn by Marriott, Ocean Township.

The standing-room-only crowd heard Raver outline forward‐thinking strategies designed to prepare the Jersey Shore workforce for the expanding opportunities in film and media production as Netflix studios move into Monmouth County.

Raver, who also serves as Executive Director of the Garden State Film Festival, spoke about the region’s growing role in film, television, and media production. She detailed the skills local employers are seeking and highlighted hands-on training programs offered through the New Jersey Film Academy at Brookdale Community College. These programs are designed to provide students with practical experience and direct pathways into emerging creative career paths.

Raver, who also serves as Executive Director of the Garden State Film Festival, reminded attendees that the 24th annual Garden State Film Festival begins Thursday, March 26, bringing filmmakers, industry professionals, and visitors to the region. A full schedule of events is available at GSFF.org.

In recognition of her leadership and impact, Raver will receive the GOTCC 2026 Community Impact Award at the Chamber’s Annual Awards & Installation Luncheon on March 24 at The Renaissance, Ocean Township.

Other local nominees include Sheriff Shaun Golden, Ocean Township Police Chief Mike Sorrentino, historian Paul Edelson, Township of Ocean Historical Museum, the Italian American Association of the Township of Ocean (IAATO) and Asbury Park Police Officers Dewitt Bacon and John Walsh.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available. Visit GOTCC.org for more information.

About Greater Ocean Township Chamber of Commerce: For four decades, the Greater Ocean Township Chamber of Commerce (GOTCC), a member-based non-profit organization, has promoted the business community in the Township of Ocean and the surrounding towns; and given back to the community through a variety of outreach programs.

For additional information or to become a GOTCC member, contact Regina Longo at gotcc@gotcc.org or call 732-660-1888.