NJBIA President and CEO Michele Siekerka, along with Vice President of Government Affairs Althea D. Ford, have been acknowledged as two of New Jersey’s most powerful women for 2025. This recognition comes from a list compiled by Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter.
Sumter expressed gratitude to the women serving in various roles, stating: “To all the women serving in elected and appointed positions: thank you for your dedication.” She also referenced Amanda Gorman’s words from "The Hill We Climb," saying: “The hill we climb, if only we dare, is steep but we are not afraid.”
Siekerka and Ford work through NJBIA's Government Affairs department to collaborate with state government on initiatives such as workforce development, employment regulations, environmental policy, tax policy, economic development, and more.
Assemblywoman Sumter issues this list annually to spotlight women involved in politics outside elected positions.
