“As a student, I used to go to The Plaza to decompress,” said Jessica Bueno, Marketing Manager for the Economic Development Group (EDG). “Now I’m back—actually planning the events.”
The Plaza—officially known as the Livingston Plaza—is a vibrant retail and gathering space on the Livingston Campus. Bueno, a Rutgers graduate now working in IP&O’s Business Services under EDG, is responsible for organizing events and activities that benefit both students and retailers.
“It helps connect the community,” she said. With her leadership, events like Livi Bash 2024 go beyond fun and entertainment—they foster a sense of connection among students and the businesses that support them. Livi Bash, a seasonal highlight, is part of a broader initiative aimed at keeping students engaged and connected year-round.
From a giant game of Jenga to free samples from retailers, Livi Bash brought energy to the campus, helping students get to know Livingston’s local businesses. The Rutgers Golf Course also participated, further integrating the event with campus life and highlighting the variety of activities available to students.
“It’s particularly challenging to be a freshman,” Bueno said. “Events like Livi Bash bring out retailer support and help students discover all we have to offer.” She noted that some students aren’t even aware that Rutgers has its own cinema—events at The Plaza help change that by increasing visibility for both students and vendors.
A popular recurring attraction at The Plaza is DJ Cory Giles, who performs weekly from September through late November and again in the spring semester until graduation. Recent seasonal events have included pumpkin painting on October 23, and an upcoming Hot Chocolate Bar on December 11 will offer students a cozy break before finals.
Bueno’s role goes far beyond event planning. She manages the websites and social media for several EDG entities, including Rutgers Cinema, Livingston Plaza Retail, Rutgers Faculty Staff Housing Program, and kite+key®, the Rutgers Tech Store. She's also responsible for creating all marketing materials and communications promoting EDG-affiliated businesses.
Staying up to date with digital marketing trends is just part of the job. Bueno also places strong emphasis on building relationships with university partners. Whether she’s supporting New Student Orientation, assisting retail partners, or collaborating with Residence Life, her focus remains the same: supporting and serving the student population.
Featured in the IP&O Newsletter, December 2024.
