AAUW NJ names First Lady Tammy Murphy and Senator M. Teresa Ruiz as Agents of Change.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 13, 2024 —

The New Jersey State Affiliate of the American Association of University Women (AAUW NJ) is proud to announce First Lady Tammy Murphy and Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz as our 2024 Women as Agents of Change. The award selection committee noted in their recommendation that both nominees work tirelessly to lift and empower women, making them both ideal examples of the values we embrace with this award. Both awardees will address the members of AAUW NJ at a special virtual event “Changemakers: Leading for Equity” on Saturday, June 15, 2024.  

AAUW NJ recognizes Ms. Murphy for improving outcomes for Black Maternal and Infant Health in New Jersey by raising awareness, creating programs and helping to pass legislation. She has led the charge to include Climate Education and curriculum in our K-12 system and partnered with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to ensure that women-led businesses are getting their share of angel investments. “As an organization that works to create better opportunities for all women, we are especially honored to recognize First Lady Murphy for her work on birth equity and ensuring that Black women and children receive the healthcare attention they need. We thank her for her efforts and look forward to partnering in the future,” said Sharon Suber, President of AAUW NJ.

“I am honored to be recognized by the American Association of University Women of New Jersey as a 2024 Agent of Change,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “From our maternal and infant health work to implementing the nation’s first climate change education standards to promoting women-led businesses, I have benefitted from the support of a vast network of talented and hardworking women who have helped propel New Jersey to new heights. Without their partnership, none of these achievements would be possible. Together, we are on the road to making New Jersey the safest, most equitable state in the nation to live, work, go to school, and raise a family.”

Senator M. Teresa Ruiz has long been focused on eliminating disparities in education and ensuring that all students in New Jersey have access to quality public education. The highest-ranking Latina legislator in state history, Senator Ruiz has expanded employment opportunities for underserved communities by sponsoring bills to expand apprenticeship programs and increase teacher diversity. “AAUW NJ applauds Senator Ruiz on her legislative track record and her work on education equity. Last year, we were proud to work with Senator Ruiz on her bill that will require districts to provide free period products in school bathrooms starting this fall. We are grateful to have her champion the issues that we stand for and are thrilled to be able to honor her with this award,” said Anjali Mehrotra, Award Selection Committee Chair.

“I am deeply moved and honored to receive this year’s ‘Agents of Change’ award alongside First Lady Tammy Murphy. Championing the advancement of women and girls in New Jersey has been a constant pursuit of mine throughout my time in public service, strengthened by partnerships with organizations like AAUW NJ. Last year, AAUW NJ was instrumental in helping pass legislation that now provides free period products for girls in public schools,” said Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz (D-Essex/Hudson). “I could not do this work alone and thank the fierce advocates on the ground for their vital contributions.  As we look towards the future, collaboration will be crucial to keep pushing the needle to promote equity and inclusion for all women in education, healthcare, business, and beyond. Let’s continue to work together on our mission of empowering women. Thank you for this meaningful recognition.”

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 continues to strive to reform political, economic, or social arenas in support of women. Past recipients have included 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.

AAUW NJ Award Selection Committee Chair Anjali Mehrotra (left) and President Sharon Suber (right) present 2024 Woman as Agent of Change award to Senator M. Teresa Ruiz (center)