Associations & Organizations

Evan Weiss CEO Newark Alliance Bringing fresh ideas to important nonprofit in Newark, including the community-based e-gift card initiative designed to infuse vital funds into Newark’s small businesses over the holidays. Ralph ThomasAndy Aronson

Stephen Blazejewski, Augusto Penaranda President, Executive director N.J. Pride Chamber of Commerce Chamber, recently rebranded, aims to elevate the economic growth of the state’s LGBTQ+ community by providing business resources and networking opportunities. Penaranda is the first...

Jon Shure Senior director/interim president Taft Communications/NJ Policy Perspective Well regarded as top PR/marketing/communications executive, he is interim leader of important progressive organization he led for 12 years at its founding. Judith SheftMichele Siekerka

Joe Lupo President Casino Association of New Jersey Lupo, who has 35 years of experience in the industry, took over the role in November. He has been the president of Hard Rock Atlantic City since 2018. Ray LesniakMike...

Anthony Cicatiello President Research & Development Council of New Jersey Longtime influential leader in politics and business, he heads the group that is promoting and advocating STEM companies and research – including the Governor’s STEM Scholars program. Mario...

Ray Lesniak Founder and president Lesniak Institute for American Leadership Did you bet on the Super Bowl … legally? Ray Lesniak is one of the biggest reasons why you were able. Dana LancellottiJoe Lupo

Andrew Gross Executive director New Jersey-Israel Commission November trip to Israel shows the importance placed on the commission. Israel not only has close cultural ties with N.J., but a $1.3 billion bilateral trade partnership. Jarrod GrassoChip Hallock

Chip Hallock CEO Newark Regional Business Partnership Respected leader of one of top regional chambers in the state. Andrew GrossJohn Harmon

Mike McGuinness CEO NAIOP New Jersey Continues to be a driving force behind an organization whose members are some of the biggest drivers of economic development. Joe LupoJohn McWeeney

John Donnadio Executive director New Jersey Association of Counties At time of so much uncertainty – both in revenues and federal money coming in and out – groups such as these are invaluable. Linda DohertyRegina Egea