Shari Harrison of Livingston, NJ, was installed as President of NCJW/Essex at the organization’s annual Installation and Awards Evening in early June at Cedar Hill Country Club in Livingston. Passing the gavel to her at her installation was her 24-year-old daughter, Melanie Harrison, a teaching fellow at the Rehouse Arts Center in Syracuse, NY.
For over 20 years, NCJW/Essex has been a place that has met Ms. Harrison’s avid need to serve the public good and work with intelligent and open-minded women of all ages. Now she brings her many skills to a new leadership level. Speaking to an audience of over 200 NCJW/Essex members and guests, Ms. Harrison said, “I am truly honored that NCJW/Essex – the premier, the smartest and the most professional volunteer organization around – has chosen me as its next president.”
An attorney by training and a true progressive, Ms. Harrison has been involved for over 20 years in numerous capacities with NCJW/Essex and is committed to the goal of making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. In her role as president, she hopes to build upon advocacy efforts, particularly in the area of anti-human trafficking, and expand partnerships with like-minded organizations in the community. Outgoing president Deborah Legow Schatz, who has served two years at the helm of the organization, said of Ms. Harrison, “I couldn’t be prouder or more certain that I am giving the reins to a truly special woman who will move NCJW/Essex forward by leaps and bounds.”
Ms. Harrison’s goal is to ensure NCJW/Essex remains relevant, vibrant and responsive to the needs of clients, members, supporters and volunteers. “It is my priority to maintain and expand upon NCJW’s willingness to always question the status quo, for both the benefit of the community we serve and for our valued volunteers.”