The Heldrich Center for Workforce Development is proud to announce its Distinguished Leadership Awards. Founded in 2016 in honor of the late John J. Heldrich, Johnson & Johnson executive and civic and community leader, the awards recognize and honor the accomplishments and achievements of individuals, businesses, community organizations, and philanthropy to the field of workforce development. The awards ceremony took place on May 9, 2023.

The 2023 honorees are:

• Jose Lozano, Senior Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, Hackensack Meridian Health - Outstanding leadership to ensure quality, accessible health care for the residents of New Jersey and promoting economic development in New Jersey
• Kevin McCabe, Partner & Director, Public and Political Affairs, River Crossing Strategy Group - Sustained and continuing leadership in workforce development as former Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, membership on the Board of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and leadership in organized labor
• James Moore, Partner at KPMG - Outstanding leadership in labor economics research and workforce development program implementation
• New Jersey Council of County Vocational-Technical Schools - Outstanding service in training the future workforce and expanding opportunities for career-focused education
• Jane Oates, President of WorkingNation - Outstanding national and state leadership in education, higher education, and workforce development
• Raymond M. Pocino, retired Vice President, Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA) - Eastern Region - Dedication and outstanding service to the eastern region of LiUNA and public service on the board of Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
• Town Clock Community Development Corporation - Outstanding service to survivors of domestic violence