Montville Kiwanis celebrated its 48th Annual Installation Dinner on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at Tavern 73 in Pine Brook, bringing members, volunteers and guests together for an evening recognizing service, celebrating outgoing leadership and welcoming the officers and board members who will guide the organization into its next year.
Montville Kiwanis extends its appreciation to Tavern 73 for hosting the evening and providing a welcoming setting for this annual celebration of service, leadership and fellowship.
A heartfelt thank-you was extended to Larry Hines, who completed four years as president, and to the outgoing officers and board members for their dedication and leadership. During their service, Montville Kiwanis reestablished the Robert R. Lazar Middle School Builders Club after more than 20 years, celebrated the Montville Township High School Key Club's recognition as number one in New Jersey in 2026, and continued supporting the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry and the many families who depend on it.
The incoming officers and board were installed by Michael Murray on his first day serving as Lieutenant Governor in the New Jersey District of Kiwanis.
Murray added a memorable touch to his first officer installation by presenting each incoming officer with a candy bar matched to the individual's position—a fun and unique way to begin a new year of Kiwanis service.
Incoming President Danielle Mangione-Vasser reflected on the transition:
"It was an honor—and a sweet treat, literally—to be Michael Murray's first officer installation on his first day as Lieutenant Governor. Thank you, Michael, for making the evening so memorable. I am also deeply grateful to Larry Hines and our outgoing officers and board members for the foundation they have built, and to our new officers and board members for committing their time and talents to serve. I am grateful to work alongside them and look forward to what we will accomplish together."
The evening also provided an opportunity to recognize individuals whose commitment has made a significant impact on Montville Kiwanis and the community.
Rescida Karkowsky received the Outstanding Service Award for going above and beyond to help make Montville Kiwanis' first Tricky Tray an outstanding success.
Jim Sandham received the President's Award, recognizing his service and contributions to Montville Kiwanis.
Danielle Mangione-Vasser received the Distinguished Service Award in recognition of her leadership and dedication to strengthening the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry.
Joe O'Dowd was named Kiwanian of the Year, recognizing his exceptional dedication and consistent service to Montville Kiwanis, including near-perfect attendance at club meetings and service events and his role in introducing and helping organize Bingo Night.
This year's Installation Dinner also marked an important first for Montville Kiwanis, as the organization presented dedicated awards recognizing exceptional service by Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry volunteers.
Sharon Huber received the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry Outstanding Service Award. Huber was recognized for consistently stepping forward to help when new programs are introduced or opportunities for improvement arise. Her initiative, generosity and willingness to go beyond what is asked have made her a valued part of the Pantry and its service to the community.
Marion Kelly Gingery received the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry Distinguished Service Award, honoring more than 15 years of dedicated service. As one of the Pantry's founding volunteers, Gingery has been part of its growth from its early days in a small church closet into the community resource it is today. Throughout her years of service, she became known not only for helping provide food, but also for taking the time to listen, share recipes and make those visiting the Pantry feel welcomed and respected.
Established in 2010, the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry provides food assistance to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity with an emphasis on caring, dignity, respect and neighbors helping neighbors.
Following her installation, Mangione-Vasser's first official order of business as president was to welcome and induct Toby Levy as a new member of Montville Kiwanis.
The induction provided a fitting conclusion to an evening centered on the continuity of service—thanking those who have led, recognizing members and volunteers whose contributions have made a difference, welcoming a new leadership team and bringing another member into the Kiwanis family.
The evening reflected the spirit of Montville Kiwanis: honoring those who have served, welcoming those stepping forward to lead and continuing to build an organization committed to making a positive difference in the community.
Founded in 1978, Montville Kiwanis is a volunteer-led community service organization serving Montville Township, including Montville, Pine Brook and Towaco. Through youth programs, community service projects, charitable initiatives, food assistance, fundraising events and local partnerships, Montville Kiwanis works to strengthen the community and create opportunities for neighbors to serve, connect and lead.
For more information about Montville Kiwanis, visit Montville Kiwanis or contact kiwanisofmontville@gmail.com or 973-400-9222.
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