The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) on Wednesday announced that Kim Guadagno, the state’s first Lieutenant Governor and a dedicated leader in the nonprofit sector, will be honored with the prestigious Caren Franzini Leadership Award.
The presentation will take place during the 12th Annual Women Business Leaders Forum (WBLF), scheduled for Sept. 23 and 24 in Atlantic City. The event is powered by Citizens and serves as New Jersey’s premier professional conference for women.
A legacy of public and nonprofit service
Guadagno’s career has spanned decades of high-level public service and community advocacy. Serving as New Jersey’s first Lieutenant Governor and 33rd Secretary of State from 2010 to 2018, she led critical economic initiatives focused on business investment and job growth. Since transitioning to the nonprofit sector, she has spearheaded efforts to support families in need, first as CEO of Fulfill and currently as the President and CEO of the Mercy Center Corporation.
“Whether in government or the nonprofit sector, Kim’s passion for serving communities has always been at the heart of her leadership,” NJBIA President & CEO Michele Siekerka said. “NJBIA is pleased to honor Kim with the Caren Franzini Leadership Award because, like the award’s namesake, she is a compassionate, hardworking executive who leads by example and has left a lasting mark in business and public service.”
The award honors the legacy of Caren Franzini, the former longtime chief executive of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA), who passed away in 2017. Franzini was widely respected for her dedication to promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth across the state.
Celebrating distinguished leaders
In addition to Guadagno, the WBLF will recognize five other influential leaders for their commitment to mentorship and the advancement of women’s careers:
- Women for Change Award: Chrissy Buteas, president & CEO, HealthCare Institute of New Jersey.
- Community Impact Award: Christina Renna, president & CEO, Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey.
- Women in Advocacy Award: Reshma Saujani, founder & CEO, Moms First.
- NJBIA EmpowerHER Award: Richard Thigpen, senior VP Corporate Citizenship, Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG).
- Women In Media Award: Briana Vannozzi, News Anchor, NJ Spotlight News.
Since its inception in 2015, the Women Business Leaders Forum has empowered thousands of professionals by fostering diversity in the C-suite and boardrooms, providing valuable networking, and hosting dynamic TED-style talks and workshops.
For more information on the event or to register, visit the official WBLF website.
