Established in 1998, Leadership Newark, Inc. was born out of a desire to strengthen the City of Newark’s civic infrastructure through public policy enrichment and leadership training & development. Nearly 20 years later, Leadership Newark continues to create a network of emerging leaders with the drive, knowledge, skills and connections to improve Newark’s future.
In addition to the flagship public policy fellowship program, Leadership Newark has expanded to offer additional programs reaching youth, teens and adult populations. The programs include board service training, public policy summits, board match/placement and special initiatives to support local non-profits. With 600+ alumni and fellows, the personal achievements and collective impact of the organization can be felt throughout Newark, Essex County and The State of New Jersey.
“Celebrating this 20-year milestone is exciting, humbling and promising all at the same time. I am excited because it is a huge accomplishment and we have become the “go to” organization for leadership development, public policy enrichment and civic engagement. I am humbled because there is consistent interest in the programs offered for training & development, while when we started – we were not certain there would be consistent interest,” commented Celia King, CEO of Leadership Newark. “We also attract an incredible pool of qualified individuals who apply for our flagship fellowship program year after year. I feel the promise of tomorrow, because the alumni network is so strong. It is clear we continue to have an impact and our formula has worked well for Leadership Newark’s sustainability and longevity. Our content stays fresh and we are able to attract wonderful speaker and experts to engage with us as well. I look forward to celebrating at our Gala and the rest of the year where the Board, Staff and I can thank our Alumni, Fellows, Community Partners and Funders for supporting us and believing in our mission.”
Mayor Ras Baraka has been quoted as saying, “Leadership Newark has played a major role in our City’s transformation, by working tirelessly to build the future we want for the City we love. I am proud of the vital role Leadership Newark is playing as a partner in our work. Truly, Leadership Newark is a winner.”
The organization will gather with honorees, alumni, fellows, and the public at their annual gala event to celebrate Leadership Newark’s 20th anniversary on Tuesday May 1, 2018 at The Avenue A Club, 58 Avenue A, Newark, NJ. This year, the gala will honor Raquel Ray Fraser, M&T Bank (LN ’03), Dr. Marilyn Harris, RWJ Barnabas Health, Michele Mason, Newark Charter School Fund, and Dr. Charles Menifield, Rutgers University-Newark.
The gala will include cocktails and dinner, with music by Random Access. Further information and tickets are available for purchase HERE to attend the 20th Anniversary Gala.
