Excellence in Philanthropy Awards - AFP New Jersey Chapter

AFP-NJ cordially invites you to attend the

Excellence in Philanthropy Awards Breakfast

June 9, 2026

8:30 - 10:30 a.m.

Maplewood Country Club

28 Baker Street, Maplewood, NJ

Join AFP-NJ to honor and celebrate New Jersey’s finest representatives of the philanthropic community!

Association of Fundraising Professionals New Jersey Chapter

Excellence in Philanthropy Awards

== 2026 Honorees ==

The Robert J. Smythe
Professional Fundraiser of the Year Award

Hilary Brown-Kruchowy

Outstanding Young Fundraiser
Joie Langford

Outstanding Community Organization
Bridges Outreach
and

Volunteer Lawyers for Justice

Outstanding New Jersey Corporation
Crum & Forster

Award for Consulting Excellence

Gwen Paxon

Outstanding Nonprofit Advocate

M. Wilma Harris

Outstanding Foundation
Liv Like a Unicorn

Since 1981, AFP NJ’s Excellence in Philanthropy Awards have recognized the achievements of some of the most notable citizens and organizations in our state who have dedicated their efforts toward making New Jersey a better place.

2026 Excellence in Philanthropy Awards Sponsors

CELEBRATION SPONSOR
CRUM & FORSTER

JOURNAL SPONSOR
RWJBarnabas Health

2025 Excellence in Philanthropy Award winners with AFP-NJ Board members.
Pictured from left: Jon Paparsenos, AFP-NJ President Elect; Vicki Perez, VP & Co-Chair Excellence in Philanthropy Awards; Sarah Roberts, Executive Director, Connie Dwyer Breast Cancer Foundation; Mary Beth Cooney, Executive Director, Creature Comforts Pet Therapy; Natalie Krauser, CFRE AFP-NJ President; George C. Ruotolo, Jr., CFRE, Founder, Ruotolo Associates; and, Amol Sinha, Executive Director, ACLU NJ.