AAUW NJ names Lieutenant Governor Way and Dr. Claudine Keenan as 2025 Agents of Change

New Jersey takes important step to narrow the gender pay gap.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 19, 2025 —

The New Jersey State Affiliate of the American Association of University Women (AAUW NJ) proudly announces Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way and Dr. Claudine Keenan as the recipients of the 2025 Women as Agents of Change Award. This annual honor recognizes outstanding New Jersey women who have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advancing gender equity through leadership, advocacy, and service.

“Lieutenant Governor Way and Dr. Keenan exemplify what it means to be agents of change,” said Sharon Suber, President of AAUW NJ. “Their work has not only uplifted communities but also empowered countless women across New Jersey. We are thrilled to honor them this year.”

Lieutenant Governor Way and Dr. Keenan will be celebrated at a special virtual event, “Organizing for Change,” on Saturday, June 21, 2025, where they will share reflections on their personal journeys, their current work, and the values that continue to drive their efforts for equity and inclusion.

AAUW NJ honors Lieutenant Governor Way for devoting her career to improving the lives of her fellow New Jerseyans. A trailblazer in state and local government, she has held numerous roles over two decades, and currently also serves as New Jersey’s top election official. Her leadership in protecting voting rights and expanding fair access to the ballot has helped secure the foundations of democracy for all.

“I am honored to be recognized by the American Association of University Women of New Jersey as a 2025 Agent of Change,” said Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way. “From strengthening the integrity of our elections to highlighting women’s role in our history with projects like RevolutionNJ and the Black Heritage Trail and supporting women-led businesses through the Business Action Center, I have made a commitment in my career to ensure that women’s voices are heard, their talents are recognized, and their opportunities are expanded. I encourage every young woman pursuing her dreams, every leader advocating for change, and every individual lifting others up: keep going, keep striving, and know that your impact matters.”

Dr. Keenan has spent her entire career in education leadership, most recently serving as Interim Vice Provost at Stockton University. Now a member of the New Jersey State Board of Education, she continues working to ensure that all students have access to high-quality public education. A longtime AAUW member, Dr. Keenan has led Tech Trek, AAUW NJ’s signature summer STEM program for rising eighth-grade girls, hosted annually on Stockton’s campus.

“For more than 25 years, the American Association of University Women of New Jersey has championed efforts to narrow the gender wage gap, particularly by providing young women in several states with a hands-on, women-led STEM program: Tech Trek residential summer camp. I am honored to be named a 2025 Agent of Change for my work on Tech Trek New Jersey this past decade,” said Dr. Claudine Keenan. “As our first alumnae are now graduating with degrees in aeronautics, biomedical and computer engineering, chemistry, and physics, we are proud to welcome them back to our host campus at Stockton University as volunteer counselors and mentors to each new cohort of 8th grade girls from all 21 counties of our great state.”

AAUW NJ’s Woman as Agent of Change Award is granted annually to New Jersey women who have worked to assist women in their endeavors to reach their true potential; demonstrated leadership in supporting the empowerment of women; and continue to strive to reform political, economic, or social arenas in support of women. Past honorees include First Lady Tammy Murphy, Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz, United States Representative Mikie Sherrill; Dr. Jacquelyn Litt, Dean of Douglass College at Rutgers University; Jeannine LaRue; and former Assembly Member Valerie Vainieri-Huttle.

About American Association of University Women of New Jersey (AAUW NJ)
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. AAUW NJ is the state affiliate of AAUW, representing almost a thousand members in 18 branches and 9 colleges throughout the state. Our branches and members are active across New Jersey — from Sussex County in the North, all the way to Cape May County. Learn more and join us at aauwnj.org.