The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Supplier Diversity Development Council (SDDC) is a resource for a number of key players when it comes to enhancing supplier diversity throughout the state.

In recognition of its board members and companies, the SDDC announced the recipients of its 2022 President’s Awards Feb. 16. According to SDDC – the nexus for minority-, women-, veteran- and service disabled veteran-owned businesses; the state’s public utilities; and the NJBPU – honorees are recognized for their leadership in supplier diversity based on their impact on the growth of certified-diverse suppliers in addition to creating policies, procedures or initiatives that increase opportunities for diverse companies.

“Over the last year these winners have stood out as leaders of exemplary work in the diverse industries they serve,” SDDC Vice President Megan Carton-Poole said in a statement. “We are proud to have them as a part of our council.”

And the winners are …

Ovation Award

Jeff Cantor, CEO
New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce
Recognizing exceptional external accomplishments expanding opportunities for certified diverse business enterprises

Stellar Award

John Harmon, president and CEO, and Jacqueline Baptiste, executive assistant
African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey
Recognizing members who have consistently displayed leadership and advocacy for the growth of SDDC’s mission

Best Award

Lisa Chowansky, president of H.C. Constructors Inc.
For effectively and efficiently participating as the Supplier Development Committee co-chair to foster change

Epic Award

Cristina Pinzon, CEO, Stateside Affairs
For displaying excellence in business leadership and accomplishments

Economic Impact Award

PSEG
For being a non-diverse business that has displayed excellence in Tier Two opportunities and community leadership accomplishments

Change Agent Award

Robin Robinson-Still, buyer, New Jersey American Water
For significantly contributing to the award of agreements to diverse suppliers and implementing impactful process improvements to their company’s supplier diversity program

COVID-19 Responder Award

AT&T
For displaying consistent communications, solutions, and opportunities to address the COVID-19 pandemic