CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2024 HONOREES
Carol Simon LevinBedminster
Bedminster: Carol Simon Levin
Carol is best known as a professional storyteller and independent historian who specializes in telling the stories of “fascinating women history forgot” through first person portrayals and she always strives to create exciting programs that engage audiences of all ages and expand their horizons. She brings her presentations to libraries, senior centers, historical societies, schools, clubs, camps and other venues. She has provided Storytimes at Bedminster School for over 25 years.
As the founder of Telling Her Stories, Carol was a 2020 NJ Council for the Humanities Public Scholar presenting “Reclaiming Our Voice: NJ’s Role in the Fight for Woman Suffrage”. She is the author of the book Remembering the Ladies: From Patriots in Petticoats to Presidential Candidates (which profiles 69 women – well-known and unknown who worked tirelessly for women’s rights in America) and co-author (with Joy Tsuzuki) of Joy’s memoir A Child of Two Cultures: Growing Up in the U.S. & Japan amidst WWII.
In addition to providing her informative (and very feminist) programs, Carol does other volunteer work. She has been a Board member of Middlesex/Somerset County NOW for over 10 years, and works with the League of Women Voters in voter registration drives as a volunteer at high schools and other community locations. For 15 years, she has managed a monthly Great Discussions foreign policy discussion group. She volunteers with a variety of Democratic organizations and grassroots groups to postcard and text/phone bank, including the Bedminster Democrats. Recently she hosted the largest postcarding party BDC has ever had to get voters out for Sue Altman. In addition, she has volunteered with the Giving Network for over 20 years, collecting and distributing household goods to neighbors in need, she is a Board member and Interest Group Chair for Newcomers & Neighbors of Somerset Hills, as well as holding various positions with the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Somerset Hills for over 25 years.
Carol is best known as a professional storyteller and independent historian who specializes in telling the stories of “fascinating women history forgot” through first person portrayals and she always strives to create exciting programs that engage audiences of all ages and expand their horizons. She brings her presentations to libraries, senior centers, historical societies, schools, clubs, camps and other venues. She has provided Storytimes at Bedminster School for over 25 years.
As the founder of Telling Her Stories, Carol was a 2020 NJ Council for the Humanities Public Scholar presenting “Reclaiming Our Voice: NJ’s Role in the Fight for Woman Suffrage”. She is the author of the book Remembering the Ladies: From Patriots in Petticoats to Presidential Candidates (which profiles 69 women – well-known and unknown who worked tirelessly for women’s rights in America) and co-author (with Joy Tsuzuki) of Joy’s memoir A Child of Two Cultures: Growing Up in the U.S. & Japan amidst WWII.
In addition to providing her informative (and very feminist) programs, Carol does other volunteer work. She has been a Board member of Middlesex/Somerset County NOW for over 10 years, and works with the League of Women Voters in voter registration drives as a volunteer at high schools and other community locations. For 15 years, she has managed a monthly Great Discussions foreign policy discussion group. She volunteers with a variety of Democratic organizations and grassroots groups to postcard and text/phone bank, including the Bedminster Democrats. Recently she hosted the largest postcarding party BDC has ever had to get voters out for Sue Altman. In addition, she has volunteered with the Giving Network for over 20 years, collecting and distributing household goods to neighbors in need, she is a Board member and Interest Group Chair for Newcomers & Neighbors of Somerset Hills, as well as holding various positions with the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Somerset Hills for over 25 years.
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Bernards Township: Elizabeth Graner
Bernards Township’s Elizabeth Graner is well practiced in going above and beyond in her fight for democratic values and candidates in the Basking Ridge and Somerset County communities. She is a hard-working, forward thinking, and enthusiastic volunteer – a volunteer who fully and warmly conducts herself in the spirit of Eleanor Roosevelt. Liz is known as a strong leader within the Bernards Township Democratic Committee, which she chaired for several years. She is currently running for a coveted seat on Bernards’ mostly Republican Township Committee, as she seeks to create a more inclusive and representative government right where she lives. A graduate of Leadership Somerset, Emerge America candidate training, and Building One America leadership training, she is putting her rich skill set to work in her local campaign. Liz has spent most of her professional career teaching senior English. Beyond her passion for helping children in her roles as an educator and coach, Liz has volunteered for various political campaigns since moving to New Jersey in 1994. She served as a Union County Democratic Committeewoman. She has run for State Assembly, has served on the Somerset County Commission on the Status of Women, and is a Governor's appointee to the Somerset County Board of Taxation. As a fun aside, Liz won the Gold Shoe Award for knocking on more doors than any other candidate in Somerset County during her run for State Assembly in 2021. Liz and her fiancé Mike live in Basking Ridge with their children Patrick (hers) and Annelise (his), and a Pointer mix named Orla. Among the many political women whom Liz admires, she reveres Shirley Chisholm, Mikie Sherrill and former NJ State Senator Loretta Weinberg.
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Elizabeth Graner
Bernards Township |
Susan HorowitzBernardsville
Bernardsville: Susan Horowitz
Tonight the Bernardsville Democrats honor Susan Horowitz. Her husband Jeff says that as long as he’s known her (which goes back to when she was 14) she's been a Democrat, but that she wasn't involved in organized political activities until the 2004 election. That year, a local organizer, Jane Banfield, knocked on her door, soliciting votes for John Kerry.
Thinking that she was the only Democrat in town, Susan was both shocked and delighted to meet a fellow traveler. Wanting to pitch in, Susan asked Jane what she could do to help, and the rest is, as they say, history. Susan has been a tireless district rep in Bernardsville for over 20 years. In addition to her political organizing, Sue has been a lifelong learner. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1974 and then, in the mid-1980s, majored in both reading and special education, garnering her MA from Arcadia, then Beaver College.
While raising her family, she worked endless hours to support kids who struggled with learning. She spent the final 25 years of her career in Somerset Hill's primary and intermediate schools. A testament to her educator’s mentality, Susan is happiest when, meeting a young adult she helped overcome reading difficulties, she is asked if Susan remembers her. Replying in the affirmative, the former student then informs Susan that she is currently enrolled in or has recently graduated from college.
For the last 8 years, Susan has been an outspoken critic of the kind of divisive politics engendered by Trump and the current Republican Party, advocating on a personal level to everyone she meets for candidates who are seeking a kinder, more diverse, and fairer politic.
Tonight the Bernardsville Democrats honor Susan Horowitz. Her husband Jeff says that as long as he’s known her (which goes back to when she was 14) she's been a Democrat, but that she wasn't involved in organized political activities until the 2004 election. That year, a local organizer, Jane Banfield, knocked on her door, soliciting votes for John Kerry.
Thinking that she was the only Democrat in town, Susan was both shocked and delighted to meet a fellow traveler. Wanting to pitch in, Susan asked Jane what she could do to help, and the rest is, as they say, history. Susan has been a tireless district rep in Bernardsville for over 20 years. In addition to her political organizing, Sue has been a lifelong learner. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1974 and then, in the mid-1980s, majored in both reading and special education, garnering her MA from Arcadia, then Beaver College.
While raising her family, she worked endless hours to support kids who struggled with learning. She spent the final 25 years of her career in Somerset Hill's primary and intermediate schools. A testament to her educator’s mentality, Susan is happiest when, meeting a young adult she helped overcome reading difficulties, she is asked if Susan remembers her. Replying in the affirmative, the former student then informs Susan that she is currently enrolled in or has recently graduated from college.
For the last 8 years, Susan has been an outspoken critic of the kind of divisive politics engendered by Trump and the current Republican Party, advocating on a personal level to everyone she meets for candidates who are seeking a kinder, more diverse, and fairer politic.
Dawn Peterson
Bound Brook |
Bound Brook: Dawn Peterson
Dawn is a retired teacher of English for Union County Schools & UCESC. She has spent her career educating students and being a role model for them. Even now, she is employed part-time with ESS for Somerset and Middlesex school districts. Dawn is a mom to three and a grandmother of six, which keeps her extremely busy every day. However, Dawn can always be counted on to support the Bound Brook Democrats. Whether it is supporting the Vote by Mail initiative or canvassing with candidates and committee members. Dawn even writes notes of encouragement to residents to encourage them to return their VBM and voter registration applications. Dawn is a valued member of the Bound Brook Democrats and for all she does, we are honored to nominate her for the Eleanor Roosevelt Volunteer Service Award. |
Kendy RudyBranchburg
Branchburg: Kendy Rudy
Branchburg is honored to nominate Kendy Rudy, our candidate for Township Committee this year.
Kendy has been a volunteer for animal rescues, river cleanups, the Somerset County Food Bank Network, and many others. Additionally, she has been a long-time volunteer for the Somerset County Democrats working to elect women to office at the local, county, state, and federal levels. Kendy has been working on campaigns since she was five years old, and has phone banked for Somerset County Democratic candidates since she was 12 and was a featured speaker at the March for our Lives Rally on the steps of the historic Somerset County Courthouse in 2017.
She is now 20 years old, a student at the Bloustein School for Public Policy, and wants to go to law school to become a civil rights attorney.
Branchburg is honored to nominate Kendy Rudy, our candidate for Township Committee this year.
Kendy has been a volunteer for animal rescues, river cleanups, the Somerset County Food Bank Network, and many others. Additionally, she has been a long-time volunteer for the Somerset County Democrats working to elect women to office at the local, county, state, and federal levels. Kendy has been working on campaigns since she was five years old, and has phone banked for Somerset County Democratic candidates since she was 12 and was a featured speaker at the March for our Lives Rally on the steps of the historic Somerset County Courthouse in 2017.
She is now 20 years old, a student at the Bloustein School for Public Policy, and wants to go to law school to become a civil rights attorney.
Carolyn GioiaBridgewater
Bridgewater: Carolyn Gioia
Carolyn was born and raised in Long Island. She received an undergraduate degree in Finance from Marywood University before getting her Master’s in Business and Psychology from Pace University. Carolyn has worked on Wall Street and at a position in Corporate Communications. In 1996 Carolyn moved to Warren, then to Martinsville in 2001, and recently to Bridgewater. She has raised 2 successful daughters. Never one to sit still Carolyn then studied for 4 years to become a Court Reporter and in 2015 started her own company.
In 2018 Carolyn became involved in Tom Malinowski’s campaign and joined the Bridgewater Democratics as a Committee Member. After a year or so supporting local candidates and getting to know the local democratic party, Carolyn goal set to bringing in more youth into the party.
She created a Meetup Group in Somerset County called GenZFrenZforDemocraZinJerZ, whose mission is to bring 18 to 25 years olds together in social environments to meet and connect with each other with a focus on politics. That now numbers 55 members strong and a sphere of influence way beyond that.
She has worked closely with high school students in recognizing the power of their voices. Encouraging them to get an advisor and re-build the High School democratic club. One of the young girls she mentors has started a local chapter of Voters of Tomorrow.
When the GenZ organizers impacted by school shootings decided to bring the national Tour To Save Democracy to Bridgewater, Carolyn the great connector of people, reached out to any and every group or organization she could, which resulted in nearly 300 people, young and old attending the event. While she is doing one thing she is building bridges to other things. Her efforts with Tour To Save Democracy put this connector of people in touch with the League of Woman Voters, Montclair’s and Princeton’s Democratic organizations, all of whom she is now active with in their volunteering efforts here and in battle ground states.
For the above reasons and in recognition that Carolyn Gioia is just getting started, I recommend her for the Eleanor Roosevelt Award.
Carolyn was born and raised in Long Island. She received an undergraduate degree in Finance from Marywood University before getting her Master’s in Business and Psychology from Pace University. Carolyn has worked on Wall Street and at a position in Corporate Communications. In 1996 Carolyn moved to Warren, then to Martinsville in 2001, and recently to Bridgewater. She has raised 2 successful daughters. Never one to sit still Carolyn then studied for 4 years to become a Court Reporter and in 2015 started her own company.
In 2018 Carolyn became involved in Tom Malinowski’s campaign and joined the Bridgewater Democratics as a Committee Member. After a year or so supporting local candidates and getting to know the local democratic party, Carolyn goal set to bringing in more youth into the party.
She created a Meetup Group in Somerset County called GenZFrenZforDemocraZinJerZ, whose mission is to bring 18 to 25 years olds together in social environments to meet and connect with each other with a focus on politics. That now numbers 55 members strong and a sphere of influence way beyond that.
She has worked closely with high school students in recognizing the power of their voices. Encouraging them to get an advisor and re-build the High School democratic club. One of the young girls she mentors has started a local chapter of Voters of Tomorrow.
When the GenZ organizers impacted by school shootings decided to bring the national Tour To Save Democracy to Bridgewater, Carolyn the great connector of people, reached out to any and every group or organization she could, which resulted in nearly 300 people, young and old attending the event. While she is doing one thing she is building bridges to other things. Her efforts with Tour To Save Democracy put this connector of people in touch with the League of Woman Voters, Montclair’s and Princeton’s Democratic organizations, all of whom she is now active with in their volunteering efforts here and in battle ground states.
For the above reasons and in recognition that Carolyn Gioia is just getting started, I recommend her for the Eleanor Roosevelt Award.
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Franklin: Cheryl Bethea
Cheryl Bethea is President and CEO of Quantum Technology Consultants (QTI) LLC, a technical consulting company which she owns, and has managed for over 10 years. She has amassed broad and diverse technical knowledge and a history of success in the engineering development environment. Cheryl is a graduate of New Jersey Institute of Technology where she earned a MS in Computer Science. She is also a Martin Luther King, Jr. scholar and graduate of Seton Hall University where she earned her BS in Computer Science. In more recent years, she has utilized the training, experience and expertise, garnered in her professional career, to serve as an educator and mentor to the youth in the Franklin Township Public School District and the larger community. She cherishes her many different roles as a proud daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, teacher, civic and community leader, and youth advocate. These have all been the driving force in her decision to invest more time and effort working with and on behalf of the youth sector along with individuals in the community on matters of social discourse and civic engagement. |
Cheryl Bethea
Franklin |
With this new focus, she decided to cofound and direct a nonprofit for youth advocacy (CluedUp). She additionally serves as a member of the Franklin Township Zoning Board of Adjustment, the NJ Planning Organization Board of Directors, the Franklin Township Democratic Committe as well as both a member of the JFK Democratic Club Franklin Township and its Digital Media & Communications (DM&C) Committee. For several years, she also served in the capacity of Chairperson for both the Somerset County Democratic Committee Black Caucus Communications and Youth Development Committees. She continues to look for ways to partner with other groups and organizations to provide service to the youth as well as the surrounding community offering it education, advocacy and ways to civically engage. This includes Cheryl’s over 7 years of civic engagement in the Franklin Township Community in support of national, state and local democratic campaigns. During this time, Cheryl has served as a poll worker, assisted with many voter registration drives, participated in a multitude of voter canvassing initiatives, lead several GOTV campaigns and training sessions for both the primary and general elections cycles.
Her voter canvasing work has often been done with members of the youth by her side benefiting from her guidance and tutelage. In keeping with the youth advocacy theme, for the past 3 years, she has been the Executive Assistant for The Malcolm Bernard Historically Black Colleges and Universities College Fair, Inc. organization helping to improve the post secondary educational opportunities of underserved youth on the East Coast. As an unwavering optimist, all this work is marked by her personal commitment towards "Continuous Improvement and Excellence in pursuit of Perfection”
Her voter canvasing work has often been done with members of the youth by her side benefiting from her guidance and tutelage. In keeping with the youth advocacy theme, for the past 3 years, she has been the Executive Assistant for The Malcolm Bernard Historically Black Colleges and Universities College Fair, Inc. organization helping to improve the post secondary educational opportunities of underserved youth on the East Coast. As an unwavering optimist, all this work is marked by her personal commitment towards "Continuous Improvement and Excellence in pursuit of Perfection”
Melonie MaranoGreen Brook
Green Brook: Melonie Marano
Melonie Marano wears so many hats, but it is her newest title as Grandma that makes her the happiest.
Melonie has been a Somerset County Commissioner since January 3, 2020. Before that she served as a Committeewoman and Mayor of Green Brook. She was the founder and chair of Green Brook’s Volunteer Day from 2005 2009. Melonie is the former Chairwoman of the Green Brook Democrats (before some other fabulous woman took over ahem). Melonie is heavily active in all things environmental throughout NJ. She is a member of the New Jersey Sierra Club and the New Jersey Audubon and Pinelands Preservation Alliance. She has made the environment a key focus as Commissioner. Melonie is also a staunch ally of the LGBTQ+ community and she established the Somerset County LGBTQ+ Advisory Board. Melonie is passionate about supporting women running for office.
She spends countless hours mentoring new candidates, helping to knock doors, make calls, and leading programs with the SCFDW. Not only has she been a member of SCFDW since 2003, she was also a past President. Melonie works with compassion, empathy, and energy in all that she does. She feels it is a privilege to serve and is an excellent example.
That is why she is Green Brook’s nominee for this year’s Elenor Roosevelt Award! Congratulations Melonie!
Melonie Marano wears so many hats, but it is her newest title as Grandma that makes her the happiest.
Melonie has been a Somerset County Commissioner since January 3, 2020. Before that she served as a Committeewoman and Mayor of Green Brook. She was the founder and chair of Green Brook’s Volunteer Day from 2005 2009. Melonie is the former Chairwoman of the Green Brook Democrats (before some other fabulous woman took over ahem). Melonie is heavily active in all things environmental throughout NJ. She is a member of the New Jersey Sierra Club and the New Jersey Audubon and Pinelands Preservation Alliance. She has made the environment a key focus as Commissioner. Melonie is also a staunch ally of the LGBTQ+ community and she established the Somerset County LGBTQ+ Advisory Board. Melonie is passionate about supporting women running for office.
She spends countless hours mentoring new candidates, helping to knock doors, make calls, and leading programs with the SCFDW. Not only has she been a member of SCFDW since 2003, she was also a past President. Melonie works with compassion, empathy, and energy in all that she does. She feels it is a privilege to serve and is an excellent example.
That is why she is Green Brook’s nominee for this year’s Elenor Roosevelt Award! Congratulations Melonie!
Rhoda Amini
Hillsborough |
Hillsborough: Rhoda Amini
Rhoda Amini is the volunteer that does the work most people don't seem to notice, but that is essential to a successful party and campaign. In 2022 when I first ran for chair of Hillsborough she stepped up to be my secretary when no one else did. She helped with vote by mail when no one else wanted to. She came to meetings and events early to set up, stayed late to clean up, and drove folks to meetings they would not have been otherwise able to attend. She spent hours entering data into spreadsheets, including in a crowded room last year as tape after tape came pouring into the room, missing the party. When we needed a photographer for the first veterans ruck, Rhoda showed up. Rhoda's behind the scenes work continued as chair of the LGBTQ Caucus where she made connections throughout the state, and championed young members of the community, oftentimes being that voice that would let them know that yes, it gets better. On top of all of this Rhoda works with a local animal rescue where she not only fosters, but is all too often transport for rescues to and from veterinarians when no one else is available. Rhoda recently stepped back a bit to focus on becoming President of the Rotary Club of Hillsborough, an organization previously known as a training ground for our local Republicans, but instead now has a proud Democrat at its helm. That is Rhoda Amini. Quiet. Hard working. Protective. Reliable. Unendingly kind. She's more than just a wonderful volunteer she is a wonderful human being - a wonderful Democrat. |
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Manville: Erin Risch
Erin joined the Manville Democrats and quickly found herself running for Borough Council. Unfazed by the challenge, she has since become a trusted member of our Executive Committee, serving as Vice Chair and currently as Treasurer and Parliamentarian. Erin’s gentle yet firm guidance ensures our meetings adhere to standards and rules. Her willingness to step up as a candidate when needed demonstrates her unwavering commitment to our team. As a volunteer, Erin embodies the spirit of quiet service. She is a key partner in running the Manville Food Pantry, serving as the back-up manager. Erin actively participates in our community activities, including the annual school supply drive, numerous food drives, and volunteering at our Community Day table. During Hurricane Ida, Erin was instrumental in checking on neighbors, supporting the Emergency Animal Shelter, and assisting in the collection and distribution of supplies to residents. Beyond her local contributions, Erin serves as the President of Central New Jersey Mensa, overseeing programming, meetings, and events for members. Her dedication to service and community is exemplary, making Manville proud to nominate Erin for the Eleanor Roosevelt Volunteer Service Award. |
Erin Risch
Manville |
Dr. Christine Newman
Montgomery |
Montgomery: Dr. Christine Newman
Dr. Christine “Chris” Newman is a true Champion for Democrats and for Democracy. For more than two decades, Chris has been an active and dedicated member of the Montgomery Democrats…most of that time during “the dark years” of 100% Republican rule. She is a District County Committeeperson for one of the last remaining purple districts and her tireless effort over the years with canvassing and VBM efforts has made it possible for us to turn it from a deep red district to one we often win. Beyond her political involvement, Chris also serves on the Montgomery Board of Health, and after many years of acting as a challenger, this year she in taking on the role as a Poll Worker. Beyond her significant contributions to turning Montgomery democratic, Chris stands out for her vocal and unwavering support of women elected officials. While many focus on getting women into office, Chris understands the importance of providing ongoing support, especially for those in leadership positions like Mayor or Board presidents. Chris is not just a friendly presence in public meetings; she is a strong advocate who fearlessly speaks out, even when standing alone. She fearlessly confronts Montgomery's right-wingers, who promote hate and misogyny. And despite facing filming and harassment, Chris remains resolute. In 1984, Chris earned her bachelor's degree from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, followed by her veterinary degree from the same institution in 1987. In 1991, Dr. Newman took the bold step of purchasing Harlingen Veterinary Clinic located in Montgomery Township. Outside of her veterinary practice, her passion lies in cycling, s hiking with her furry companions and unwinding at the Jersey shore during summer weekends with loved ones. At home, she shares her life with Eileen, her partner of more than 25 years, along with their lively bunch of pets Albert and Squirt, the dogs, and Beacon, Earl, Elizabeth, and Diablo, the cats |
Janice Allen
North Plainfield |
North Plainfield: Janice Allen
Janice holds a degree In Early Childhood Education. She taught elementary school for 9 years before becoming a teacher and Director of Holy Cross Preschool in North Plainfield. She was instrumental in developing the Preschool program for North Plainfield Public schools which was recognized and celebrated by a visit from President Joe Biden in support of good early childhood education. As President of the North Plainfield Jr. Woman’s Club, Janice co chaired the First Street Fair, for which the Club won the State Federation of Women’s Clubs Community Improvement Award. In 1985, she chaired The North Plainfield Centennial Celebration, a year of events celebrating our history and culminating in a parade and street fair. She also served on the Central Jersey July 4th Celebration Committee for many years as Chair and fundraising for the annual parade and fireworks. |
Elected to the North Plainfield Borough Council in 1989 she was instrumental in obtaining a New Jersey Main Street designation. Janice was elected the first woman Mayor of North Plainfield serving from 1997 to 2008. During her tenure, she oversaw the renovation of Borough Hall and the Police Department.
She is a member of the Somerset County Democratic Committee serving as Committee Person and then Municipal Chair. She served on the State Committee, and she is a member of SCFDW. As a member of Holy Cross Church North Plainfield, she serves on the Vestry and teaches Sunday school. She helped start the Church’s Neighbors Feeding Neighbors and has been a volunteer in the Holy Cross Thrift Shop. Currently Janice chairs the NP Forum and Friends of the Carpenter and is the treasurer for NP FISH.
She serves on the Library Board and Historic Preservation Commission. She is a member of the Friends of Vermeule Mansion and has been a member of the Rotary Club of the Plainfields for over 20 years.
She is a member of the Somerset County Democratic Committee serving as Committee Person and then Municipal Chair. She served on the State Committee, and she is a member of SCFDW. As a member of Holy Cross Church North Plainfield, she serves on the Vestry and teaches Sunday school. She helped start the Church’s Neighbors Feeding Neighbors and has been a volunteer in the Holy Cross Thrift Shop. Currently Janice chairs the NP Forum and Friends of the Carpenter and is the treasurer for NP FISH.
She serves on the Library Board and Historic Preservation Commission. She is a member of the Friends of Vermeule Mansion and has been a member of the Rotary Club of the Plainfields for over 20 years.
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Raritan: Jen Oroczo
Jennifer Orozco is a distinguished founding member and current pillar of the Raritan Democratic Municipal Committee. Her unwavering dedication to the Democratic cause in Raritan Borough is evident in the countless hours she has volunteered to ensure the success of local campaigns. Every election season, Jennifer devotes her evenings to preparing and distributing campaign literature, organizing fundraisers, and leading vote-by-mail efforts. Her home has become a vital hub for Raritan Democrats, serving as the launchpad for canvassing efforts, a venue for strategic political meetings, and a welcoming space whenever the Committee needs a gracious hostess. Thanks to Jennifer's tireless efforts, multiple Democratic candidates have successfully won council seats in Raritan. Since its inception in 2020, Jennifer has served as the Secretary of the Raritan Democratic Municipal Committee, playing a crucial role in its growth and success. She is also an active member of the Somerset County Federation of Democratic Women, where she has worked to foster collaboration with neighboring Democratic Municipal Committees, like the pizza and drinks get together between Raritan and Somerville and Central pizza. |
Jen Oroczo
Raritan |
Theresa Bonner
Somerville |
Somerville: Theresa Bonner
Councilwoman Theresa Bonner is one of Somerville’s “Sheros.” She is the youngest of 7 children, growing up in Corning NY. Theresa came to Somerville 18 years ago after meeting her husband Kofi. She has two sons, Miles and Juniper. She quickly fell in love with our “small town” vibe. After being a stay-at-home mom (and a certified nutritional counselor), she realized she wanted to be more involved in Somerville - the community she calls home. She joined the Somerville Municipal Alliance and Youth Services Commission in 2013 to help fight addiction in the community. Theresa started a small business with her mother-in law in 2018, opening their brick and mortar boutique in downtown Somerville in 2021. She was asked to join the board of the Downtown Somerville Alliance the same year. Over the past 8 years, she has helped to raise thousands of dollars for Steps Together of Hillsborough. Steps Together helps Somerset County families struggling to pay off medical debt, due to family members fighting a life threatening disease. Theresa took her love of working with the public to the next step and decided to run for Borough Council in 2023. Theresa and her running mate are the newest and youngest members of the Somerville Borough Council. As a council member, she was able to work closely with the Somerville Civic League to help organize relief for displaced residents due to the fire on Main Street in 2024. The Somerville Democrats nominated Theresa for the Eleanor Roosevelt Award because of her commitment to her community. Theresa ALWAYS shows up! She attends as many ribbon cutting ceremonies as she can, not to mention Somerset County events. She is a dedicated Democrat and supports the Somerville Democratic committee wholeheartedly. |
Elizabeth KonkleSouth Bound Brook
South Bound Brook: Elizabeth Konkle
Beth is currently a member of the Governing Body of South Bound Brook, completing her second three-year term. Over the years she has been dedicated to several different organizations in the community. She was the secretary for the South Bound Brook Recreation Committee for three years where she attended and participated in all Boro events.
She was an active PTO member of Robert Morris School during her children’s tenure. During those same years, she was a den leader for the South Bound Brook Cub Scouts. She was very active in the Franklin Township South Bound Brook Little League serving as a board member and President, retiring in 2019 after she won the election in 2019. She was the treasurer for the Union Village United Methodist Church in Warren/Berkeley Heights where she and her family are members. In 2018 she was a recipient of the Eleanor Roosevelt Volunteer Service Award. In April 2020, she was appointed to the position of South Bound Brook OEM Coordinator, completing her three-year term. She has been an active member of the Somerset County Governing Officials Association (SCGOA), serving on the executive board for the past four years. In 2024 She became Board President.
As mom to Raymond and Sophie, Beth continues to balance her family, work, political, and community lives with grace. Everyone who knows Beth knows she is the person to immediately volunteer or jump in to action no matter how busy she is. She is the epitome of what the Eleanor Roosevelt Award represents.
Beth is currently a member of the Governing Body of South Bound Brook, completing her second three-year term. Over the years she has been dedicated to several different organizations in the community. She was the secretary for the South Bound Brook Recreation Committee for three years where she attended and participated in all Boro events.
She was an active PTO member of Robert Morris School during her children’s tenure. During those same years, she was a den leader for the South Bound Brook Cub Scouts. She was very active in the Franklin Township South Bound Brook Little League serving as a board member and President, retiring in 2019 after she won the election in 2019. She was the treasurer for the Union Village United Methodist Church in Warren/Berkeley Heights where she and her family are members. In 2018 she was a recipient of the Eleanor Roosevelt Volunteer Service Award. In April 2020, she was appointed to the position of South Bound Brook OEM Coordinator, completing her three-year term. She has been an active member of the Somerset County Governing Officials Association (SCGOA), serving on the executive board for the past four years. In 2024 She became Board President.
As mom to Raymond and Sophie, Beth continues to balance her family, work, political, and community lives with grace. Everyone who knows Beth knows she is the person to immediately volunteer or jump in to action no matter how busy she is. She is the epitome of what the Eleanor Roosevelt Award represents.
Dr. Mildred Waale
Warren |
Warren: Dr. Mildren Waale
Warren is excited to nominate one of our stars, Dr. Mildred Waale, for the Eleanor Roosevelt Award this year. Mildred has been critical in our committee's growth over the past year, stepping up as treasurer and volunteering to attend Warren's Planning Board meetings to make sure we are informed. Additionally, she has had to recover from various physical challenges (planned and unplanned) this year but has not let this impact her involvement with our group. Mildred has the full support of our team and we are so lucky to have her! |
Somerset County Award: Johanna McCarten
President's Award: Heather Boyce
What an incredible evening and event. THANK YOU to everyone who attended
Photo Credit: Christopher Basista
Photo Credit: Christopher Basista
