Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce Beacon Awards Honor Luminaries

Stellar individuals, businesses, and organizations who serve as beacons of inspiration to the community were honored by the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce at the 2022 Beacon of Excellence Awards celebration, held on July 27 at Jacques Reception Center in Middletown, NJ. The annual awards are designed to honor outstanding community enrichment through service, leadership, and achievement.

“The Beacon of Excellence event is our chance to recognize the amazing work being done in Monmouth County by each of the honorees, who have all made an impact in the community,” stated Holly Schult, event chair. “Some have overcome obstacles in their own lives to become success stories, creating environments where those in need can shine and be valued. These award recipients are honored for leading by example for the next generation of influencers and, most of all, for doing everything they can to make Monmouth County a shining star for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”

Beacon of Excellence attendees enjoyed a cocktail hour and dinner before the presentation of this year’s awards, which included:

Beacon of Hope Award, presented to a business, individual, or nonprofit providing outstanding and exceptional outreach to the community, providing a promise of hope and a vision for the future. Honoree – Community Affairs and Resource Center

Beacon of Light Award, presented to an individual, business, or organization whose accomplishments demonstrate superior public service and are a source of light and inspiration to the community. Honoree – Middletown Arts Center

Non-Profit Organization of the Year Award, presented to an organization exhibiting outstanding achievement and a reputation for excellence in the non-profit sector. Honoree – No Limits Café

Business Ambassador of the Year Award, presented to an individual or organization demonstrating exemplary commitment, leadership, and engagement within the business community. Honoree – Jeanne Wall

Corporate Good Neighbor Award, presented to a business organization that has made an extraordinary impact on the Monmouth County area through exceptional civic engagement. Honoree – NJCU @ Fort Monmouth

Community Service Award, presented to an individual, business, or organization whose accomplishments demonstrate superior public service and are a source of light and inspiration to the community. Honoree – Tom Hayes

Young Professional of the Year Award, presented to a professional under the age of 40 who has made a significant impact and has shown leadership in guiding the next generation of business professionals. Honoree – Kathrine Dwyer

Distinguished Leadership Award, presented to recognize a leader whose contribution to the understanding of and/or practice of effective leadership is significant and has resulted in extraordinary impact. Honoree – Dr. Michael Edmondson

President’s Award, presented as special recognition given to an individual, business, or nonprofit by the Monmouth Regional Chamber President for significant contributions and achievement. Honoree – Dr. Jackeline D. Mejias-Fuertes

“The evening was filled with laughter, congratulatory wishes, and inspiring messages,” Schult noted. “Each and every honoree made a lasting impression on the audience by sharing their story, and their personal humility, coupled with community pride, was evident. The evening was made special by Jacques Reception Center, who provided the fabulous venue; the audiovisual team at One-of-a-Kind Events; the talented singer Gigi Abinader; and MRCC Executive Director Terese Rölke and administrative assistant Kathleen Hoffman, the amazing team behind the scenes.”

Additional thanks go to everyone who donated fabulous items for the gift auction and to the generous event sponsors, including New Jersey Natural Gas, CentraState Healthcare System, BCB Bank, New Jersey City University - Ft. Monmouth, Alcoeur Gardens, EZ Docks Unlimited, Artis Senior Living, ADP, Beacon of Life, Tom's Ford, Rue Insurance, Advanced PMR, Pine Belt Nissan, and Buhler Auto.

About the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce

The Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, volunteer organization whose mission is to promote business, enhance economic development, and serve as a catalyst for improving the overall quality of life in our communities. Its vision is to provide opportunities for business growth and prosperity, offer quality service to members, serve as a resource leader for business and the community, and represent the voice of business on a regional level. For more information about the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce and upcoming events, visit www.monmouthregionalchamber.com.