Founder of Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey passes away

The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey has announced the death of its Founding President & CEO, Dr. Daniel H. Jara.  Dr. Jara was  a hardworking businessman and a leader in the Hispanic Community. He was born in Lima, Peru; where he obtained his primary and early secondary education. He came to New Jersey at the age of 14 and graduated from Eastside H.S. in Paterson. He attended Rutgers University, obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Economics and Accounting and M.A. in Finance and Business Administration.

He was the Owner of Rimac Agency, Inc., an insurance, Hispanic market and international trade consulting firm. As head of the Greater Paterson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Jara came to realize more needed to be done to ensure that Hispanic Business owners were in touch with the state and each other.   

In 1989, along with 4 other volunteer Hispanic Leaders, the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was formed in order to bridge that gap. For 22 years, Dr. Jara lead the Chamber to become a large organization that was dedicated to advancing and advocating for business interests for the Hispanic Community in New Jersey.  

Upon Dr. Jara's retirement, SHCC-NJ Chairman Emeritus, Harry Ayala, said, "Daniel has been a tireless and powerful voice for New Jersey's Hispanic business community for many years. He's been a constant and well-known presence throughout the Garden State, whether it was holding meetings at the State House, in corporate offices, or with the owners of small businesses seeking advice on how to get started and succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors. He changed the landscape for thousands of Hispanic men and women in the business arena and we are grateful for his contributions."

Daniel's leadership reflected in fostering economic growth and visibility to New Jersey. As a steadfast leader, he headed and participated in countless events, meetings and trade missions. He served on many committees and boards of organizations to ensure that the Hispanic Business Community was always well represented.

He is survived by his devoted wife, 2 sons, and granddaughter. 

Our condolences go now to his family, his friends and all who were close to him.  We will be mourning the loss of a steadfast leader, businessman & colleague.