Moorestown Councilwoman Napolitano Earns National Recognition

MOORESTOWN, NJ — Moorestown Councilwoman Victoria Napolitano has been recognized as a National Elected Women of Excellence by the National Foundation for Women Legislators, the Moorestown Republican Party announced on Monday.

Napolitano and the other 2019 Women of Excellence winners will be presented with an award at the Women of Excellence reception during the organization’s annual conference in San Antonio, Texas, on Monday night, Nov. 18.

"We're excited to see Councilwoman Napolitano recognized as a National Elected Woman of Excellence, but we're certainly not surprised," Moorestown Republican Party Vice Chair Susie Blank said. "Whether she's fighting for lower taxes and responsible government, volunteering in our community, or serving as a role model for young people and working moms, Victoria has certainly made her mark in the public service arena. We are proud to support her and glad to have her as a tireless advocate for the people of Moorestown."

The award was created to identify women who have worked tirelessly, often breaking down barriers and overcoming obstacles that once seemed insurmountable, to serve their communities. These pacesetters have engendered an environment where women can now serve in public office and fight for the issues they are passionate about. The winners were nominated by their colleagues and constituents from their home states, before being chosen by a distinguished panel of NFWL members

“Part of the spirit of NFWL is that we take time to acknowledge the significant accomplishments of the hardworking and dedicated women around us, and we are delighted to recognize this year’s honorees,” NFWL Executive Director Jody Thomas said.

Napolitano was first elected to the Moorestown Council in 2012 and was reelected in 2016. In 2015, she made history at the age of 26 when she became the youngest woman to ever be sworn-in as a mayor in New Jersey.

Napolitano is a member of the Historical Society of Moorestown, Friends of the Moorestown Library, and STEM, has performed in local theater with MoorArts, and serves as an Ambassador for Autism NJ.

Napolitano again made history when she became the first member of the Moorestown Council to give birth while in office. Gaining attention for what she calls "motherhood in public," Napolitano has brought her daughters with her to township meetings and events, so she could continue to nurse while serving her constituents.

Napolitano says she hopes other women will be inspired to step into leadership roles even as they welcome children into the world.

"I was very happy to hear the news that the NFWL choose to honor my good friend and colleague Victoria Napolitano," Moorestown Councilman Mike Locatell said. "Her love of family and commitment to serving our community are the best example of leadership anyone could ask for. I am proud to call her my running mate and friend."

“Victoria Napolitano is a role model and an exemplary public servant who deserves every recognition that comes her way,” former Burlington County Freeholder and Vice Chair of the Burlington County Republican Committee Linda Hughes said.