Grace Hanlon Named Finalist for 2025 ATHENA® Leadership Award

TINTON FALLS, N.J. - EntSun -- Grace Hanlon, Executive Director of the Jersey Shore Partnership, has been named a finalist for the 2025 ATHENA® Leadership Award, one of the most distinguished honors recognizing women leaders around the world.

Presented by the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce, the award honors women who exemplify professional excellence, community service, and mentorship. The winner will be announced during the award luncheon on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Jumping Brook Country Club in Neptune.

Throughout her career, Grace has been a passionate advocate for New Jersey's people and coastline, dedicating her work to public service, environmental protection, and leadership development. From 2010 to 2015, she served as New Jersey's Executive Director of the Division of Travel & Tourism, leading statewide campaigns and initiatives to position the state as a premier travel destination. In 2012, she played a pivotal role in spearheading the Jersey Shore's tourism recovery following the devastation of Superstorm Sandy.

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Grace has dedicated her career to protecting New Jersey's coastline and mentoring the next generation of leaders. In 2011, she founded the Jersey Shore Partnership's Young Professionals Committee, a first-of-its-kind bipartisan initiative, co-chaired by a young Democrat and Republican. The committee fosters civility, collaboration, and lasting friendships while providing emerging leaders with hands-on experience in advocacy, fundraising, and leadership. Many participants have advanced to the Partnership's Board, continuing her mentorship legacy.

A committed philanthropist, Grace has served as President of the Board for Prevention First and Preferred Behavioral Health, supported vulnerable youth at the Dynamite Youth Center, led fundraising and local historic societies, and recently chaired Clean Ocean Action's 40th Anniversary Beach Sweeps Gala.

"I am honored to be recognized for work that combines my passion for environmental stewardship and mentorship. Supporting the next generation of leaders—and teaching them to collaborate across differences—is the most rewarding part of what I do," said Grace Hanlon.

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The ATHENA® Award ceremony will take place on Friday, November 7, 2025, 11:30 - 2:00 PM, Jumping Brook Country Club, 210 Jumping Brook Road, Neptune, NJ 07753. Sponsorships and tickets are available at https://www.monmouthregionalchamber.com/athena/

About The Jersey Shore Partnership Foundation: The Jersey Shore Partnership Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for initiatives that support Jersey Shore coastal communities, with a strong emphasis on shore protection and beach replenishment. The Partnership plays an active role in New Jersey's economy, including tourism, infrastructure, education, and emergency preparedness. Proceeds from the Summer Celebration support efforts to ensure vital local, state, and federal funding for beach protection projects. https://www.jerseyshorepartnership.com/