Monica Slater Stokes, the longtime managing director of government affairs at United, has fond memories of the late, great Caren Franzini.
“For those who didn’t know her, she was the epitome of strength wrapped in grace,” she said.
Slater Stokes was speaking at New Jersey Business & Industry’s (NJBIA) 11th annual Women Business Leaders Forum after receiving the event’s highest honor: The Caren Franzini award.
Slater Stokes used the moment to honor Franzini, the longtime head of the N.J. Economic Development Authority, who passed in 2017.
Sumter honored
Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter was given the inaugural Leadership in Public Service Award at the NJ Women Business Leaders Forum Wednesday.
“I thank you for recognizing my work, because people may not always remember the hard work that goes into getting legislation across the table with bipartisan support and the support of the business community,” she said.
“She was a brilliant and effective leader who knew how to get things done, but with no ego or hidden agendas,” she told the crowd of more than 500. “Caren was simply committed to this great state and its residents.
“She understood the importance of business and community, and she leveraged tools and resources and innovative strategies to make them better.
“Caren’s presence in the room made you want to be better, to do better, show up and work hard, and to affect change.”
Slater Stokes has long done the same for United Airlines.
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Michele Siekerka, the CEO of the N.J. Business & Industry Association, which runs the event, said Slater Stokes was a worthy recipient.
“Truly a quiet force behind the scenes, Monica is the kind of leader who never seeks the spotlight, but whose impact is undeniable,” Siekerka said.
“She takes a problem head on, is a problem solver, is a mentor, is a role model, is someone that if you don’t know her you want to get to know her and if you are looking for someone to emulate it is a Monica Slater service.
“She handles every situation with grace, professionalism, and most important, passion.”
Slater Stokes, Siekerka said, is someone like Caren Franzini.
Slater Stokes said that was the highest compliment.
“I admired Caren’s way of moving in spaces where women weren’t expected to use their voices, but she used hers no matter the expectation of those in the room,” she said. “She did so in thoughtful and welcoming ways, bringing others along by focusing on the shared goals and objectives.
“Caren was the master of consensus building. And she never stopped even when she became ill. She showed up even then with a warm joy filled, and get it done spirit.
“I am so immensely grateful for her incredible example and thankful to NJBIA for bestowing this award for which I will forever treasure.”
