Essex Republican Women Will Celebrate 6 ‘Extraordinary’ NJ Leaders At Gala

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — The Essex County NJ Republican Women (ECNJRW) will celebrate America’s 250th birthday by honoring six “extraordinary New Jersey women” at their inaugural Women Warriors of the Constitution Gala.

The event will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 16 at Ravello, 138 Eagle Rock Avenue in East Hanover.

According to organizers, the gala is a tribute to “women whose leadership, advocacy and service have made a meaningful impact throughout the state.”

The evening will also offer attendees the opportunity to meet Republican candidates running in the 2026 general elections. Organizers said the guest list includes U.S. Senate candidate Justin Murphy, in addition to U.S. House of Representatives contenders Carmen Bucco (10^th district) and Joe Hathaway (11^th district).

A host committee includes New Jersey community leaders such as Christine Hanlon, Laura Ali, Rosemary Becchi, Carlos Santos, Karolina Dehnhard, Jeanette Hoffman, Christina Oden, Al Barlas and Cyndy Gallenthin.

Tickets are $150 per person and seating is limited. Learn more here.

“America’s 250th birthday gives us a unique opportunity not only to celebrate our nation’s history, but also to recognize women who are carrying its founding principles forward today,” ECNJRW president Amanda Jones said.

“These six remarkable women demonstrate leadership, courage, service and conviction in very different ways, and we are proud to honor them as our inaugural Women Warriors of the Constitution,” Jones added.

Here are the honorees, organizers said:

The Statewide Impact Award
Honoring exceptional leadership and advocacy advancing freedom and opportunity across New Jersey

Dawn Fantasia
Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia represents New Jersey’s 24th Legislative District, encompassing Sussex County and portions of Morris and Warren counties, in the New Jersey General Assembly.

Champion of Freedom and Justice Award
Honoring unwavering dedication to justice, freedom and the protection of constitutional rights

Susan Wernick Lemkin
Susan Wernick Lemkin is co-founder of the Jewish Bar Association of New Jersey and currently serves as its Co-Executive Director of Public Affairs.

The Social Media Educator Award
Honoring a powerful voice educating and empowering others through social media

Rhiannon Mindas
An elementary school teacher in Lacey Township, Rhiannon Mindas has also built a significant social media following as @teacher_in_NJ, using X, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok to educate, inform and engage audiences on issues affecting New Jersey.

The Young Woman Leader Award
Recognizing a rising leader who exemplifies courage, conviction and a commitment to positive change

Francesca DiPaola
Francesca DiPaola is Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board of Homes for Veterans, a national nonprofit organization that provides barrier-free home modifications for disabled veterans.

The Legacy of Local Impact Award
Honoring a legacy of service and meaningful impact within the community

Sylvia Petillo
During a 26-year career in public service, Sylvia Petillo served her community in a wide range of local and county-level elected offices in Sussex County, establishing a longstanding record of civic leadership and service.

Champion of Republican Women Award
Honoring outstanding leadership and advocacy for Republican women and conservative values

Cyndy Gallenthin
Immediate Past President of the New Jersey Federation of Republican Women, Cyndy Gallenthin has been recognized by both the National Federation of Republican Women and through a Joint Legislative Resolution of the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly for her leadership and dedication to Republican women throughout the state.

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