SWEENEY NAMED “GOOD GUY” BY WOMEN’S POLITICAL CAUCUS

NEW BRUNSWICK –  Senate Majority Leader Stephen M. Sweeney will be presented with the prestigious “Good Guy” award from the Women’s Political Caucus of New Jersey at its Passion-Power-Progress Awards Dinner on Tuesday, Dec. 2nd, at the Hyatt Regency.

            “I am extremely honored by this award from the Women’s Political Caucus,” said Senator Sweeney, D-Gloucester, Salem and Cumberland. “I’d like to dedicate it (the award) to my daughter, Lauren, because she’s been my inspiration for whatever good in public life I’ve managed to accomplish.”

            Senator Sweeney said his 15-year-old daughter, who was born with Down Syndrome, has been the “driving force behind my public service” ever since her struggle to survive her first 75 days of life in a neonatal unit.

            A long-time legislative champion for children with special needs, Senator Sweeney also said there needs to be stepped up efforts to recognize and support female candidates for public office.

            “U.S. Census data shows that 51 percent of the New Jersey population is female,” Senator Sweeney said. “Our New Jersey officeholders should reflect that (female) majority to ensure that our public policy, in turn, reflects the specific needs and issues of that majority.”

            Joining Senator Sweeney as a recipient of a “Good Guy” award will be Ralph Izzo, President and CEO of Public Service Enterprise Group, according to the WPC.

            Other award recipients scheduled to be honored at the dinner are Kent Manahan, New Jersey Network News anchorwoman, Woman of Achievement Award; Human Services Commissioner Jennifer G. Velez, Mary Philbrook Award, and the Girl Scouts of Central & Southern New Jersey, Leaders for Social Change Award.

            The Special Guest Host for the awards dinner will be Elizabeth Christopherson, President and Chair of the NJN Foundation Board.