The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce has announced the recipients of its 2025 Women of Inspiration Awards, honoring 12 women for their contributions to economic opportunities and community improvement in New Jersey. The awards will be presented at a reception on September 18 at The National Conference Center in East Windsor.
Tom Bracken, president and CEO of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, stated, "We are proud to honor these extraordinary women who have made significant contributions to New Jersey's employer community. Their dedication and leadership are truly inspiring and we look forward to celebrating their achievements at this year’s reception."
Among the honorees is Marlene Asselta, president of the Southern New Jersey Development Council, who will receive the Alice H. Parker Outstanding Woman of Inspiration Award for her work in public policy across various sectors.
Patrizia A. Zita, CEO & Co-Founder of The Zita Group, will be recognized with the Private Sector Advocate Award for her efforts in placing women in state government positions.
Kelly Brozyna, CEO & State Director of New Jersey Small Business Development Centers, is set to receive the Small Business Advocate Award due to her initiatives supporting small business entrepreneurs.
Chrissy Buteas from HealthCare Institute of New Jersey will be awarded the Industry Advocate Award for her leadership within biopharmaceutical and medical technology companies.
Briana Vannozzi from NJ Spotlight News will receive the Business Communications Award for her journalism covering state issues.
Kristi Howell from Burlington County Regional Chamber of Commerce is being honored with the Employer Advocate Award for expanding chamber membership and programming.
Linda Doherty from New Jersey Food Council will get the Association Advocate Award for leading initiatives like reusable bag laws and combating retail theft.
Deborah Visconi from Bergen New Bridge Medical Center is recognized with a Woman of Inspiration Award for enhancing healthcare services and provider relations.
Kim C. Hanemann from Public Service Electric & Gas receives the Outstanding Corporate Leader Award as she leads one of New Jersey's largest utilities.
Monica Slater Stokes from United Airlines gets an Issues Advocate Award for developing external affairs programs supporting public policy objectives in Northeast regions.
Blenda Pinto also from United Airlines is acknowledged alongside Monica Slater Stokes for advancing corporate goals across northeastern territories including Virginia’s Dulles hub.
Diane Wasser from EisnerAmper receives an Outstanding NJ Chamber Service Award as Partner-in-Charge overseeing operations throughout various regions while actively mentoring female professionals' career growth within industry networks nationwide.
The event aims to provide networking opportunities among industry leaders through a cocktail reception following award presentations recognizing these distinguished individuals’ impactful work statewide today!
