NJBIA President & CEO Michele Siekerka is among 10 New Jersey leaders from a wide range of industries, backgrounds and experiences who will be honored by the State Chamber of Commerce at its 2026 Women of Inspiration Awards reception this fall.
The event, which takes place from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Oct. 22 at the National Conference Center in East Windsor, celebrates individuals whose talent and hard work create economic opportunities and help make New Jersey a better place to live and work.
Siekerka, who has led the nation's most impactful employer association for over a decade, will be honored with the Chamber’s 2026 Business Advocate Award.
“Michele is an unwavering advocate for the business community, pushing every day for policies that make New Jersey more affordable, competitive and business friendly,” the Chamber said in its announcement on Thursday.
“She is a collaborative and inspiring leader who brings people together around issues that matter most to New Jersey’s business community. She is also a passionate champion of women’s leadership and the advancement of women in business.”
The entire list of 2026 honorees are:
- Alice H. Parker Outstanding Woman of Inspiration Award: Amy Mansue, CEO, Inspira Health Network
- Employer Advocate Award: Kellie Doucette, Chief Operating Officer to Gov. Mikie Sherrill
- Outstanding Corporate Leader Award: Heather Staples, Executive Vice President of Enterprise Operations, Business and Technology Solutions, and CIO, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
- Association Advocate Award: Debbie Hart, President & CEO, BioNJ
- Issues Advocate Award: Eileen Mannion, Vice President of Public Policy-State & Local Government Affairs, Verizon
- Business Innovation Award: Liat Krawczyk, Executive Director, New Jersey AI Hub
- Business Advocate Award: Michele Siekerka, President and CEO, New Jersey Business & Industry Association
- Outstanding NJ Chamber Service Award: Aiysha “A.J.” Johnson, CEO & Executive Director, NJCPA
- Young Professional Award: Fatema Raza, Partner, Withum
- Business Communications Award: Joanna Gagis, Senior Correspondent, NJ Spotlight News
The annual awards reception provides attendees with networking opportunities with industry leaders and honorees. For ticket information, go here.
