The Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) celebrated a quarter-century of impact on Nov. 12, with its 25th Annual Evening of Excellence at the Park Savoy Estate. The milestone event, themed “Igniting the Spark that Creates Change,” highlighted individuals and an organization championing transformative efforts in the behavioral health arena.
The evening celebrated innovation, advocacy, and resilience, recognizing four distinguished individuals and the Newark Community Street Team for their dedication and visionary work in driving lasting change for individuals and families affected by behavioral health conditions.
The honorees recognized for their groundbreaking work included:
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Mark Duffy, chief operating officer of Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey (CSPNJ) (Retired)
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Bob Gold, chief behavioral technologist and founder of GoMo Health
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Suzanne Kunis, president and chief executive officer of NovaWell and vice president of Behavioral Health Solutions-Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (Retired)
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Divad Sanders, experienced behavioral health and outreach professional
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Newark Community Street Team, for providing Crisis Response, Violence Intervention and Support Services
Carolyn Beauchamp, president and CEO of MHANJ, praised the honorees, stating, “We were honored to recognize this remarkable group of leaders whose vision, compassion and innovation continue to transform behavioral health in New Jersey. Through their groundbreaking work… they are the catalyst propelling people and communities to thrive throughout New Jersey.”
The program also featured Miss New Jersey, Isabelle Nicholas, as the keynote speaker. She delivered a powerful message about leveraging her platform to expand mental health awareness and empower others to seek support. The night was hosted by award-winning television host and producer Lisa Marie Falbo.
A heartfelt segment of the evening was dedicated to the remembrance of Bill Murray, a cherished MHANJ board member whose recent passing deeply touched the organization.
Colleagues and community members reflected on his decades of service, compassionate spirit, and the lasting impact he made. In his honor, MHANJ announced the creation of an Advocacy Internship to continue his legacy of service and belief in the organization’s mission. Murray’s family was in attendance to accept the honor on his behalf.
The Evening of Excellence serves as an important fundraiser for MHANJ, with proceeds supporting its efforts to increase access to advocacy and services for people living with behavioral health conditions. The event was supported by numerous sponsors, including Premier Level sponsor GoMo Health and Gold Level sponsors Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and Johnson & Johnson.
