For an event so steeped in inspirational women business leaders, the announcement of NJBIA’s annual Caren Franzini Award at the 11th annual Women Business Leaders Forum on Wednesday was fitting fare.
Monica Slater Stokes, United’s lead government relations executive in the Northeast, is the 2025 awardee for the prestigious award. And Franzini, the late chief executive of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, was someone she always tried to emulate.
“Caren’s presence in the room made you want to be better, to do better, to show up and work hard, and to affect change,” Stokes told the crowd of 500-plus at the DoubleTree by Hilton Somerset.
“I admired Caren's way of moving in spaces where women weren't expected to use and live their voices, but she used hers no matter the expectation of those in the room.”
Stokes was one of several people honored at New Jersey’s largest professional women’s conference. Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter (D-35) was recognized for her legislative work on behalf of small businesses, women, and civil rights; South Jersey Industries President & CEO Mike Renna for his inclusive leadership style and community commitment, and Junior Achievement of New Jersey President & CEO James Horne Jr. for his community work preparing young people for financial success.
NJBIA also honored five standout college students with “Rising Star Awards.”
Alicia Brownstein of Paramus; Melissa De Cunto of Hopatcong; Laasya Kandakurti of Belle Mead; Zeynep Nalan Kus of Clifton; and Alusha Olivier of Irvington were all distinguished by NJBIA for their academic work and passionate service to their communities.
Franzini, who died in 2017, worked with seven governors from 1994 to 2012 to promote entrepreneurship and economic growth, particularly in New Jersey’s largest cities. She later served on NJBIA’s Board of Trustees until her passing at age 57.
Stokes, a Newark native, develops and drives United’s external affairs programs in support of the airline’s in-market public policy, social impact investment and business development objectives.
NJBIA President & CEO Michele Siekerka lauded Stokes for handling “every situation with grace, professionalism, and most important, passion.”
“She takes a problem head on,” Siekerka said. “She is a problem solver, is a mentor, a role model. She is someone that if you don't know her, you want to get to know her. If you are looking for someone to emulate it is a Monica Slater Stokes.”
Sumter received NJBIA’s Public Service Award for her legislative work in the 35th Legislative District in Bergen and Passaic counties, which she has represented since 2012, and also her tireless advocacy for the needs of small businesses, women, and civil rights.
During Sumter's legislative career, her leadership has stood out in past roles as Majority Conference Leader, Deputy Speaker, and currently in her positions as Legislative Black Caucus Chair and Chair of the Assembly Community Development & Women’s Affairs Committee.
“Shavonda Sumter’s leadership of the Legislative Black Caucus was significant in bringing to light the state's disparity study, which was an analysis that showed state contracting agencies underutilized minority and women-owned business enterprises,” Siekerka said.
“It is because of her leadership that the caucus was created, to take a very close and deep look at this disparity and begin to take action in the state of New Jersey to ensure everybody has a fair piece of the pie when it comes to government and conduct.”
“I thank you for recognizing my work,” Sumter told the crowd. “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.”
“I will cherish this crystal vase that is just gorgeous and my flowers. And thank you for giving them to me while I can still smell them.”
