Pictured (L to R) are Brittany Spanos Wooden, Executive Director, Community Outreach and Diversity Officer, Saint Peter’s University Hospital, Public Servant of the Year; Rachelle Chin, Vice President, Commercial Lending Portfolio Manager, Magyar Bank, Emerging Leader of the Year; James Marshmon, Director, Student Development and Campus Life, Berkeley College in Woodbridge and Woodland Park and Manager, Berkeley College Foundation Food Pantries, New Jersey, Community Volunteer of the Year; Kathy Shaw, Vice President, Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce; Stephanie Brown, Executive Director, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Middlesex County, Community Organization of the Year; Lucy Cordero and James Cordero, Owners, Chick-Fil-A in Old Bridge, Business Leaders of the Year; and John Ellery, Owner, Ellery’s Neighborhood Pub & Grill, HomeTown Hero of the Year. James Marshmon received the Community Volunteer of the Year Award.
The Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated its annual Community Leaders of Distinction Awards on May 23 at the Pines Manor in Edison. The prestigious event honored exceptional individuals and organizations whose impactful contributions have significantly enhanced the quality of life and fostered positive change within Middlesex County communities.
The Community Leaders of Distinction Award is a testament to the profound difference made by those who go above and beyond, improving the lives of their neighbors and strengthening the fabric of the community. This year’s honorees represent a diverse array of leadership, commitment, and service, each having left an indelible mark on the region.
The chamber was delighted to recognize the following distinguished leaders for their outstanding achievements:
- Business Leaders of the Year: James and Lucy Cordero, Owners of Chick-Fil-A Old Bridge, were celebrated for their entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and commitment to community engagement through their enterprise.
- Community Organization of the Year: CASA of Middlesex County received this honor for their vital advocacy work, providing a voice and support for children in need within the foster care system.
- Public Servant of the Year: Brittany Spanos Wooden, Executive Director of Community Outreach and Diversity Officer at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, was recognized for her dedicated service and efforts to promote inclusivity and well-being across the community.
- Community Volunteer of the Year: James Marshmon, Director of Student Development and Campus Life at Berkeley College’s Woodbridge Campus, was honored for his selfless volunteerism and significant contributions to student and community development.
- Emerging Leader of the Year: Rachelle Chin, Vice President Commercial Lending Portfolio Manager at Magyar Bank, was acknowledged as a rising star demonstrating exceptional leadership potential and impact in her field.
- Hometown Hero of the Year: John Ellery, Owner of Ellery’s Neighborhood Pub & Grill, was celebrated for his consistent acts of kindness, community support, and for embodying the spirit of a true local hero.
“We are incredibly proud to shine a light on these remarkable individuals and organizations who embody the very best of Middlesex County,” said MCRCC Vice President Kathy Shaw. “Their passion, dedication, and tireless efforts are an inspiration to us all and play a crucial role in making our communities vibrant and thriving places to live and work. The Community Leaders of Distinction Awards not only celebrate their achievements but also encourage others to follow in their footsteps of service and leadership.”
The event was attended by community leaders, local officials, business owners, and supporters, all gathered to celebrate the spirit of community and acknowledge the profound impact of this year’s honorees.
