Dr. Gayles graduated from Swarthmore College with a BA in Political Science, from Brandeis University with a Master’s Degree in Management of Human Services, and earned his Doctorate in Education Administration and Supervision from Seton Hall University. His career includes a rich background in the public and non-profit sectors. As an advocate for students, Dr. Gayles has worked with parent groups and community stakeholders such as the FBI, Rutgers University, NJIT, Raritan Valley Community College, Lincoln Technical Institute, Berkeley College, and the NAACP of Metuchen to help young people develop self-confidence, discipline, and focus, refine the tools that move them towards their goals and dreams, and ultimately become lifelong, independent learners, problem solvers, and positive role models for others. Some of his most memorable moments were celebrating the rich cultural diversity that existed in each school community by organizing Hispanic Heritage Month, African American History, and Women in History Month activities. Dr. Gayles believes that “to celebrate the diversity that exists in our community strengthens our connections with each other and demonstrates our willingness to transcend merely tolerating diversity and eagerly embrace with sincere appreciation the very qualities that make us unique.”

Currently, Dr. Gayles is the Program Coordinator for College Readiness Now at the County College of Morris, which focuses on helping Morris County high school students in six partner high schools develop college and career readiness skills in preparation for life after high school. He is also a member of the Mount Olive Board of Education, a Board of Trustee for Norwescap, the largest community action program in northwest NJ, sits on the Board of David’s Shoes in Irvington, NJ, and has coached recreation athletics in Mount Olive.