Eight executives, including four legislators known for supporting business interests, were recognized at the New Jersey Business & Industry Association’s (NJBIA) Public Policy Forum. The event took place at the Princeton Marriott at Forrestal and drew an audience of 450 attendees. Governor Mikie Sherrill delivered the keynote address, and panel discussions featured legislative leaders and prominent business executives.
NJBIA President and CEO Michele Siekerka, along with members of the association’s Government Affairs team, presented awards to individuals for their leadership and contributions to improving New Jersey’s business environment. The NJBIA is the largest statewide employer organization in the United States, representing a broad range of businesses across sectors such as manufacturing, retail, services, and more. The association provides advocacy and resources to its members from its base in Trenton under Siekerka’s leadership (https://njbia.org/).
The Candy Straight Woman Trailblazer Awards were given to Lynn Nowak, Executive Vice President at Porzio Governmental Affairs, and Barbara DeMarco, Vice President at Porzio Governmental Affairs. Siekerka stated: “Both Lynn and Barbara are a dynamic force in public policy and business strategy. They have been on more power lists that I can count – consistently recognized for their leadership, community engagement and strategic thinking.” She highlighted Nowak’s work in political analysis and legislative strategy, including her role in legalizing marijuana through a ballot question campaign. DeMarco was recognized for her involvement in bringing a data center to Atlantic City Convention Center to support internet gaming infrastructure.
The Leonard C. Johnson Awards honored Denise Beckson, Vice President/Chief Administrative & External Affairs Officer at Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks; and Ward Sanders, President of the New Jersey Association of Health Plans. Siekerka said Beckson has been an advocate for hospitality and tourism over three decades: “There is no committee, coalition or gathering on these issues where you will NOT see Denise Beckson – and chances are that she is not only in attendance but leading.” Beckson also serves on several industry boards.
Ward Sanders received his award from NJBIA VP of Government Affairs Althea D. Ford: “Ward is a strong advocate and an invaluable resource in educating the Legislature about the challenges faced by all employers… And he will not shy away from pointing out when the state exempts itself from mandates, it leaves our dwindling small employer market to carry the weight of cost increases.”
Paul L. Troast Awards were presented to Assemblyman Gerry Scharfenberger (R-13), Senate President Nicholas Scutari (D-22), Assemblyman William Spearman (D-5), and Senator Latham Tiver (R-8). Ray Cantor of NJBIA described Scharfenberger as “a steady voice who asks the right questions,” adding: “He is one of the few legislators who actually reads everything I send him… We value his leadership and support of the business community.”
Assemblyman Spearman was honored as chair of the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee for supporting small businesses: “Drawing on his experience from both public and private sectors… Chairman Spearman brings practical insight,” Ford said.
Senator Tiver was noted by Cantor for making an impact early in his term: “Senator Tiver has one of the toughest jobs… he is a pro-business Republican sitting on the Senate Environment and Energy Committee.”
Senate President Scutari was also recognized despite being unable to attend: “He and his staff… have shined this past legislative session working with NJBIA on some much-needed pro-business regulatory reform,” said Christopher Emigholz.
The NJBIA works with businesses across New Jersey providing advocacy services, essential information, partnerships with government entities, educational institutions (https://njbia.org/), as well as cost-saving benefits aimed at advancing member prosperity.
