HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — The Adult Day Center of Somerset County has named Sgt. Richard "Rick" Tichenor of the Hillsborough Township Police Department as the recipient of the 2026 Steve Kalafer Community Leadership Award.
The award is scheduled to be presented at the Adult Day Center's 15th Annual Generations Gala on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at The Palace at Somerset Park. Cocktails and dinner begin at 6 p.m.
The Steve Kalafer Community Leadership Award recognizes people whose compassion, leadership and dedication to service make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, according to the Adult Day Center.
The organization said Tichenor was selected for his longstanding commitment to the community, especially his efforts to support and build relationships with older residents.
The Adult Day Center said Tichenor is known to many Somerset County residents as a trusted resource who takes time to listen, offer assistance and help people feel supported.
The organization said his work with older adults reflects a view of community service that includes building trust, showing compassion and making sure people feel valued and cared for. Those values align with the center's mission of providing affordable adult day care services while supporting the well-being, dignity and quality of life of older adults and their caregivers.
Tichenor began his service in the United States Marine Corps, with deployments including Iraq, Mongolia, Mozambique and Afghanistan.
He later entered law enforcement in his hometown of Montville in 2014. Since joining the Hillsborough Township Police Department in 2017, he has served as a patrol officer and K-9 handler before advancing to corporal and now sergeant.
"Rick is deserving of this award because of his passion for the profession and his dedication to the profession. He's spent a life of service from the military to coming into public service. He wants to make a positive difference in this world. He goes above and beyond and I think that is his calling in life," Hillsborough Township Police Chief Michael McMahon said.
The announcement also pointed to Tichenor's actions during Tropical Storm Ida, when he rescued Dr. Kristen Sikorski from floodwaters.
"He's courageous and kind and compassionate, yet humble. And his sense of selflessness is just extraordinary," Sikorski said.
The Nov. 18 gala will bring together community leaders, businesses, families and supporters while raising money for the Adult Day Center of Somerset County.
The center said seats and tables are still available. More information about the gala, reservations and the organization is available at www.adultdaycenter.org.
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