With this issue, NJBIZ recognizes and celebrates New Jersey businesses owned and run by women who demonstrate the qualities that allow them to succeed in a difficult economic environment. An environment that, despite significant progress, remains tilted against them.

The businesses profiled below represent a full spectrum of industries – manufacturing, construction, health care, public relations and marketing, accounting, law, architecture and many more. As they thrive and grow, they are helping to retire the old “male-dominated industry” trope. In time, that phrase should lose its meaning. And the women who run the honored companies in this section are hastening that day. It can’t come soon enough.

The businesses on this list are the result of the energy, talent, intelligence and perseverance of their owners, founders and top executives. Their stories represent some of the most compelling narratives coming out of the state’s business community – and everyone can learn from the experiences recounted here.

So please join us in congratulating the honored businesses. Some started from scratch and built thriving companies; others took over going concerns and made them better. As you read the profiles, reflect on that fact and what it took to earn a place on this list. Let us know what you think of our choices – and whether we missed anyone who deserves the same sort of recognition.

– Jeffrey Kanige
Email: [email protected]

Methodology

The Power, In the Lead and People to Watch lists are compiled by the NJBIZ editorial staff based on our reporting throughout the past year with input from experts in a variety of fields and recommendations from our readers. The staff looks for people who have gained public attention – and perhaps acclaim – for their professional accomplishments and public service. Each list identifies individuals who, through their efforts, are helping to make New Jersey a better place to live, work and do business. Honorees are not necessarily better at their jobs than others in their profession, but they have contributed meaningfully to the advancement of the public interest through their work and/or community service.

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Meet the honorees below: