ArcMorris Celebrates Epic Heroes at Annual Awards Gala; Assemblywoman Aura Dunn Wins Legislator of the Year

By NJ General Assembly -  TapInto

Whippany, New Jersey – ArcMorris honored 20 outstanding individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) at its Annual Awards Gala on May 28.

This inspiring evening celebrated the dedication, service, and leadership of staff members, community partners, advocates, and caregivers who exemplify the mission and values of ArcMorris. The event, held at Birchwood Manor in Whippany, New Jersey, also raised critical funds to support ArcMorris programs and services across Morris County.

“Our award recipients are living proof that inclusion, compassion, and community support make a tangible difference in the lives of people with disabilities,” said Sal Moran, CEO and executive director of ArcMorris. “We are proud to honor their contributions and continue our work toward a world of greater dignity and opportunity for all.”

This event was made possible by the support of ArcMorris’ generous sponsors, community partners, and all of the guests, volunteers, and vendors who joined in celebrating inclusion and accessibility.

Platinum Sponsor: Community Care Rx

Gold Sponsor: John Hyland

Silver Sponsors: M.E. Wood Construction, Verizon Business

Bronze Sponsors: Bowman Consulting Group Ltd., Enterprise Fleet Management, Merrill, and Peapack Private Wealth Management

Table Sponsors: Tilcon NY, Karr Landscape and Design, Brian Trematore Plumbing and Heating

2025 Honorees:

Staff Awards

Outstanding Direct Support Professionals: Andrea Antwi, Jordelina Olivo, Temidayo Ellis, Teofila Ottenheimer

Management Effectiveness Award: Susan Many

Service Excellence Award: Rebecca Hammond

Community Awards

Ability Through Art Award: Andrea Katz

Bill Sackter Citizenship Award: Irene Zhao

Distinguished Community Service Award: Rebecca Lory and Josie Scanlan (KINDeR Community)

Employer of the Year: The Daily Plan It

Healthcare Professional Award: Kelly Berman (KidTherapy)

Media Excellence Award: Jay Dow (PIX11 News)

Professional of the Year: Terri Greifelt (Skylands Family Support)

Volunteer of the Year: Erin Amaty (Wyndham Hotels & Resorts)

William R. Testa Distinguished Service Award: Joseph Brigida (Merrill)

Gail Paradise Distinguished Caregiver Award: Deborah Bott

The Voice of Change Award: Sharon Levine (The Arc of New Jersey)

Legacy of Service Award: Kathleen Hyland

Legislator of the Year: Assemblywoman Aura Dunn

About ArcMorris:

Founded in 1953, ArcMorris is the leading provider of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in Morris County, NJ. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ArcMorris is committed to promoting inclusion, independence, and self-sufficiency.

Mission:

ArcMorris is dedicated to the care, support, and advancement of people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities and their families.

Vision:

ArcMorris envisions a world in which people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities and their families are valued and have the opportunity to achieve their highest level of self-sufficiency, independence, and inclusion.

For more information about ArcMorris or to support its mission, visit www.arcmorris.org.

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