Julie Blumenfeld (DNP, CNM, FACNM, FAAN), clinical associate professor and director of the nurse-midwifery program at Rutgers School of Nursing, has been named to the 2026 NJBIZ Education Power List, recognizing her leadership in midwifery education, workforce development and maternal health. Blumenfeld is among several celebrated members of the Rutgers community featured on the list, including President William Tate. 

“Congratulations to Dr. Blumenfeld for being named to the Education Power List—yet another well-deserved honor,” said Angela Starkweather (PhD, ACNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN), dean and professor at Rutgers School of Nursing.  

“Her leadership and advocacy have elevated midwifery education and practice not only in New Jersey, but across the nation. Through her dedication to workforce development, policy advancement and equitable maternal health, Dr. Blumenfeld continues to improve outcomes for countless families and set a standard of excellence that can inspire nurses everywhere.” 

The Education Power List was compiled by the NJBIZ editorial staff based on its reporting throughout the past year with input from experts in a variety of fields and recommendations from our readers. “The staff looks for people who have gained public attention for their professional accomplishments and public service,” says Jeffrey Kanige, chief editor. “The list identifies individuals who, through their efforts, are helping to make New Jersey a better place to live, work and do business.” 

Advancing midwifery education and maternal health

At Rutgers, Blumenfeld leads New Jersey’s only midwifery education program, which offers master’s and doctoral study options. The program marked its 50th anniversary in 2024 and continues to expand clinical partnerships and academic pathways to prepare the next generation of nurse-midwives.  

One of Blumenfeld’s most significant contributions is the New Jersey Midwifery Education Project, funded by the New Jersey Department of Health. Since 2023, the project has provided more than $1 million in student scholarships, reducing financial barriers to midwifery education while supporting a more diverse and prepared workforce.  

She also directs the Reproductive Training and Education Initiative, administered by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, which aims to strengthen reproductive health care capacity across the state. 

National recognition for leadership

Blumenfeld’s inclusion on the NJBIZ Education Power List adds to a distinguished record of national and state honors, which include her fellowships in the American Academy of Nursing and the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM). 

She received the ACNM Foundation’s 2025 Dorothea M. Lang Pioneer Award, presented to midwives who have demonstrated exceptional vision, leadership, and innovation. She received the American College of Nurse-Midwives 2023 Policy Award in recognition of her work to expand access to midwifery in New Jersey. 

She is the legislative chair and immediate past president of the New Jersey Affiliate of the American College of Nurse-Midwives; at the national level she serves as chair of the ACNM Government Affairs Committee. 

A certified nurse-midwife for more than 25 years and a graduate of Rutgers School of Nursing, Blumenfeld continues her clinical practice at Capital Health in Trenton, where she provides comprehensive midwifery care from pregnancy through childbirth and the postpartum period.