Newark Woman Turns Life Around After Prison Stint, Earns Award

NEWARK, NJ — Everyone knows somebody who is a positive presence in their community. And Tia Ryans of Newark is among them, according to the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Awards.

Organizers of the annual awards – which honor New Jersey residents whose “outstanding community service and heroic acts have made a substantial impact on the lives of others” – recently announced their 2023 winners.

This year, awards totaling $160,000 will be presented to 11 honorees. They include Tia Ryans of Newark, who founded FORTE House NJ (Forcing Out Recidivism Through Education).

According to the Russell Berrie Foundation:

“Tia was incarcerated for a decade following a traumatic childhood. Determined to change her life, she began taking classes and enrolled in Rutgers following release, graduating in 2019. While at Rutgers, she recognized a need for tools and support for justice impacted students transitioning through postsecondary education and founded F.O.R.T.E. House in Newark. Tia has become a leading advocate for criminal reform and restorative justice in New Jersey. In 2022, she was appointed by Gov. Phil Murphy as a trustee of the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility, the first formerly incarcerated person in that position. Tia will receive the top award of $50,000.”

The annual awards were established by the late Russell Berrie, and are funded by the Russell Berrie Foundation and hosted/managed by Ramapo College of New Jersey.

With 419 honorees since the inception of the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award in 1997, more than $4 million in cash awards have been presented to recognize the personal sacrifices and commitments these individuals have made to serve others.

“I could not be more inspired by this year’s Making a Difference Award honorees for their efforts ranging from preventing violence to distributing tons of food and supplies weekly to people in need,” said Scott Berrie, vice president of the Russell Berrie Foundation and son of Russ Berrie.

“They have incredible dedication to tackling problems, bringing needed solutions that improve people’s lives and strengthen communities throughout New Jersey,” Berrie said. “It’s an honor to advance and celebrate their efforts.”

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