If you are interested in presenting to our membership, please contact the LeadingAge New Jersey office.
2026 Annual Awards Ceremony
Nominations Now Open! Learn more about the nomination process here.
Interested in partnering with us on this event? Check out sponsorship opportunities here.
When: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 | 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Where: The Boathouse at Mercer Lake: 334 S Post Rd, West Windsor Township, NJ 08550
Check out photos from the 2025 Ceremony here!
SHAPING THE FUTURE …
THROUGH LEADERSHIP, INNOVATION, AND SERVICE
Through outstanding leadership, personal commitment, and innovation in services, housing, and program delivery, LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware members are leading the way in providing outstanding care and services to older adults in our states.
The LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware Awards Ceremony is a great opportunity to recognize all the ways that our members are making a difference in the lives of residents, colleagues, and their local community.
Join Us In Congratulating the 2025 Excellence in Aging Services Award Recipients
President’s Award
The President’s Award is our most prestigious honor. This highly coveted award recognizes a distinguished career of service and achievement in the field of aging and is only bestowed periodically.
Cindy Jacques, Senior Vice President for Programs and Services, United Methodist Communities
Excellence in Care Award
This award category recognizes individuals from LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware member communities who demonstrate extraordinary talent, expertise, and dedication in provision of exceptional service to residents.
Hyacinth Blake, Certified Nursing Assistant, Christian Health at Windmere
Rhonda Benjamin, Certified Nursing Assistant, Country House at Acts Retirement-Life Communities
Tejwanti Lilia, Certified Nursing Assistant, Peace Care St. Ann’s
Mila Rosales, LPN, Acts-Manor House
Excellence in Community Service Award
This category recognizes member achievements that contribute to neighboring communities by providing outstanding services, programs, and opportunities for engagement.
Kathryn Speer, Housing Administrator, Wesley By The Bay at United Methodist Communities
Alberta Romaniello, Activities Director, Reformed Church Home
Hector Rivera, Maintenance Technician, Pines Village at FellowshipLIFE
Excellence in Innovation Award
This category recognizes innovative best practice programs or services that promote and enhance quality of life for senior residents, staff, and/or the surrounding community.
Springpoint and Parker Health Group, Senior Living Providers
Emma Lanese, Recreation Manager, Ridge Oak
Excellence in Leadership Award
This category recognizes people from member organizations who have exhibited an exemplary career of outstanding service in the field of aging services, and who have enhanced the concept of professionalism by virtue of their leadership.
Wendy Austin, LPN, New Jersey Eastern Star Rehabilitation and Nursing
Marva Lawrence, Certified Nursing Assistant, The Jewish Home Family
Excellence in Professional Advancement Award
This category celebrates individuals who have assumed progressive leadership responsibilities within a LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware member organization, and have worked to build a shared vision, develop robust relationships, and enhance organizational capacity.
Robin Schloesser, Regional Property Manager, Lutheran Social Ministries of New Jersey
Gina Martinez, Clinical Coordinator, Heath Village
