LISC Honors Community Leaders at New Jersey Achievement Awards

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) New Jersey held its 17th annual New Jersey Neighborhood Achievement Awards ceremony on March 5, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This event recognized individuals and organizations dedicated to revitalizing under-resourced neighborhoods across the state.

“This is our way to take an opportunity to celebrate the individuals and organizations who are on the ground doing the work,” stated Jorge Cruz, Executive Director of LISC New Jersey. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging those who contribute significantly to community development.

A Night of Recognition

The doors opened at 17:00, allowing attendees to enjoy complimentary stadium tours before the ceremony commenced. The program officially started at 18:30, hosted by Lisa Marie Falbo, with remarks from Cruz and Jessica Guilfoy, Vice President of LISC Programs. Special remarks were delivered by Lieutenant Governor Dr. Dale G. Caldwell.

The first award presented was the Exceptional Leadership Distinction Award, honoring an individual whose leadership and service have significantly advanced LISC’s mission. The 2026 recipient, Ken Meyers, AVP and Community Development Market Manager at Synchrony Bank, expressed his commitment to community engagement. “Helping somebody start their business or coaching small business entrepreneurs makes a difference, and I can see it,” he remarked.

The next honor was the Exemplary Public Partner Award, awarded to Senator Andy Kim. His team accepted the award on his behalf, and he shared a video message thanking LISC for the recognition of his collaborative efforts in community revitalization.

Celebrating Partnerships and Impact

The Exemplary Private Partner Award recognized the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation for its transformative contributions to New Jersey communities. The award was accepted by Samra Haider, who remarked on the importance of their partnership with LISC, stating, “It feels great because we are really proud of our partnership with LISC.”

The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Vivian Cox Fraser, President and CEO of the Urban League of Essex County. Fraser highlighted her personal connection to community service, saying, “Helping members of the community is like helping members of your family, and to be able to give back means a lot.”

The final award of the evening was the Rhonda A. Lewis Inspirational Community Advocate Award, given to Tenisha Malcolm-Witt, Vice President of External Affairs for the Girl Scouts Heart of NJ and Founder of Outdoors On Purpose, recognizing her impactful advocacy for community revitalization and justice.

The ceremony served as a reminder of the tireless efforts of individuals and organizations working to uplift their communities. LISC’s celebration of these leaders illustrates the ongoing commitment to fostering positive change in New Jersey.