Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Gala
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
A message from the CEO
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the 2026 Women of Distinction & Community Partners Gala, and thank you for joining us for this special evening.
Tonight’s theme, Making the World a Better Place, reflects the heart of the Girl Scout mission. Every day, girls across Monmouth and Ocean Counties are putting that mission into action by leading service projects, exploring STEM, building businesses, caring for their communities, and discovering the power of their voices.
At Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, we see firsthand what happens when girls are given opportunity, encouragement, and support: they grow into courageous, confident leaders grounded in character.
Tonight, we are proud to honor outstanding individuals and organizations whose leadership and generosity are creating lasting impact in our communities. We are also deeply grateful to our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and friends whose support helps make these opportunities possible for girls.
Thank you for believing in girls and for helping us continue to make the world a better place.
Yours in Girl Scouting,
Heather Coburn Chief Executive Officer
Gala
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
Girl Scout Promise
On my honor, I will try: To serve God* and my country, To help people at all times, And to live by the Girl Scout Law.
*Members may substitute for the word God in accordance with their own spiritual beliefs.
Girl Scout Law
I will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Emerald Sponsor
Cadence and Callie Smith
Gold Sponsor
Aspire Technology Partners
Bronze Sponsor
OceanFirst Bank
Stillwell-Hansen
Trefoil Sponsor
Manasquan Bank
RWJBarnabas Health - Monmouth Medical Center/Community Medical Center
Badge Sponsor
Hackensack Meridian Health • Marsh & McLennan Agency • Maureen Lloyd Ocean County College • Ocean County Division of Business & Tourism Press Communications • PWC
Girl Scout Sponsor
Baldwin Group • Brilliant Environmental • Causeway Family of Dealerships
Holman Frenia Allison, P.C. • IBM Technology • Irwin Lincoln Mazda Ocean County Vocational Technical School PNC Institutional Trust Asset Management • Samara/Jeunesse
Audio Visual/Program Underwriter
Kevin J. Leahy, Locust Advisory, LLC
Invitation Underwriter
Dr. Gregory Greco, Monmouth Plastic Surgery
Ad Journal Underwriter
ENCON
Entertainment Underwriter Mazza Recycling Palmer & Cay
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Gala
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Board of Directors
Jacqueline K. Shea
Board Chair
Bob McLane
Second Vice Chair
Jay Whalen Treasurer
Lauren Holman
Chair Elect
Ben Waldron
Third Vice Chair
Dr. Michael Maschi
Secretary
Memb ers-At-Large
Alexis Bailey • Paige Baran • Diane Lee Bro ck
Jan Kirsten • Jacly n Kosco • Dr. Eb oné M. Law rence-Smith
Sean Meehan • Kate Roselli • Jenna Rosenfeld
Heather Stout • Michele Wilson
Heather Coburn, Chief Executive Officer
Gala Committee
Committee Co-Chairs
Lauren Holman & Bob McLane
Members
Paige Baran*
Nancy Barone
Julie Bellezza
Diane Lee Brock
Victoria Marie Fernandez
Denice Gaffney
Christine Hanlon, Esq.
Thomas Hayes*
Chanta L. Jackson
Jan Kirsten
Dr. Manpreet Kohli
Dr. Eboné M. L awrence-Smith
Dr. Michael B. Maschi
Karen McFadden
Barbara McMorrow
Dr. Jackeline D. Mejias-Fuertes
Pamela Monaco
Teri O’Connor
Nancy Peterson
Wendy Price
Rosalind Seawright
Jacqueline K. Shea
Jennifer Shufran
Carol Stillwell
Evelyn Strain
Stephanie Toal
Ben Waldron
Jeanne Wall
Jennifer Weisert
Jay Whalen
Rachel Womack
*Honorary Co-Chairs
Gala
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
Victoria Marie Fernandez Woman of Distinction
Victoria Marie Fernandez is the Director of Thriving Communities at the Grunin Foundation, where she leads capacity building and equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives. A lifelong Girl Scout and dedicated volunteer, her leadership journey began early, when her troop became the youngest STEM trainers in their council’s history.
Before joining Grunin, Vicki held leadership roles at the Rutgers Institute for Ethical Leadership, where she supported hundreds of nonprofit professionals in strengthening their leadership skills and organizational impact. In 2019, she co-founded the Nonprofit Professionals of Color Collective, which has grown to support leaders nationwide.
With more than 20 years of experience spanning youth development, community engagement, arts education, and nonprofit advancement, Vicki is widely recognized for championing inclusive leadership, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for others to thrive.
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Gala
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
Dr. Eboné M. Lawrence-Smith Woman of Distinction
Dr. Eboné M. Lawrence-Smith is a dedicated educator, leader, and community advocate whose passion for empowering young minds has shaped her career. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Montclair State University, a Master of Education from Concordia University–Portland, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational and Organizational Leadership from National University.
She began her career with Newark Public Schools before joining Long Branch Public Schools, where she has served as a teacher, reading interventionist, and is now an Orton-Gillingham Associate Level Literacy Coach. Her work focuses on data-driven, differentiated literacy practices that support both students and educators. Her excellence in the classroom earned her recognition as Teacher of the Year in 2019.
Deeply committed to service, Dr. Lawrence-Smith is active in numerous organizations, including Continental Societies, Inc., The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., Jacob’s Ladder of Monmouth County, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. A dedicated Girl Scout volunteer since 2011, she now serves as a Member-at-Large on the Board of Directors. Her leadership, grounded in faith and family, continues to inspire the next generation.
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Gala
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
Pamela Monaco Woman of Distinction
Pamela Monaco is an accomplished educator and leader whose career has focused on expanding access to education for non-traditional and underserved student populations. She earned her doctorate in English from The Catholic University of America, where early teaching experiences in community colleges inspired her lifelong commitment to student-centered learning.
Her career has spanned faculty and executive leadership roles at institutions including Thomas Nelson Community College, Mississippi Valley State University, University of Maryland Global Campus, Brandman University, and Wright College. Across each role, she has championed innovation, inclusion, and pathways to success for diverse learners.
Today, she serves as President of Ocean County College, where she continues to advance access, excellence, and community impact. She is also a Fulbright Scholar, National Endowment for the Humanities Fellow, and graduate of leadership programs at Harvard University Graduate School of Education.
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Gala
Wendy Price Woman of Distinction
Wendy Price is an accomplished media executive and community leader with a distinguished career in broadcasting and sales leadership. Born in Bergen County, New Jersey, she began her career at the radio station at the State University of New York Brockport, where she earned top honors for excellence in communication. She went on to represent major Buffalo radio stations before returning to New Jersey in 2002.
As Director of Sales for Press Communications, LLC, Wendy oversees revenue growth while leading innovative teams across multiple media platforms. Her professional achievements have earned numerous honors, including the Morrison & Abraham “Made It Happen” Award, recognition among Radio Ink’s Best Managers in Radio, and the Greater Toms River Chamber Woman of Distinction.
A longtime Toms River resident, Wendy is deeply devoted to her family and community. She and her husband, Steve, are proud parents to their son, Ethan, whose joyful spirit continues to inspire all who know him.
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Gala
Jeanne Wall Woman of Distinction
Jeanne Wall is a respected media entrepreneur, publisher, and communications strategist dedicated to strengthening communities through local journalism. She is the owner of HomeTownNews, LLC and publisher of multiple TAPinto editions serving Monmouth County communities.
In addition to delivering free daily local news, Jeanne supports businesses and nonprofits through strategic brand development, content marketing, and communications. She brings more than 15 years of corporate media relations experience, including senior roles with Robinson Lerer & Montgomery, where she managed national campaigns and executive media strategy for Fortune 500 companies such as Pfizer and Revlon. She also previously worked with Time Warner in television production and public relations.
A devoted wife and mother of four, Jeanne considers family her greatest joy and credits that perspective with shaping her deep commitment to the communities she serves.
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Gala
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
Jay Whalen Man Enough to Be a Girl Scout
Jay Whalen is Chief Accounting Officer of Jersey Mike’s Subs, one of America’s most iconic and fastest-growing restaurant brands. He joined Jersey Mike’s in April 2026.
With more than 20 years of executive finance experience, Jay has built a distinguished career leading high-performing teams across the technology, software, and consumer sectors.
Most recently, Jay served as Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer of Shift4, a global leader in integrated payment processing and technology solutions. At Shift4, he played a key leadership role in more than a dozen mergers and acquisitions totaling over $4 billion, including the landmark $2.7 billion acquisition of Global Blue. Prior to Shift4, he served as Chief Accounting Officer of Commvault, where he led global finance operations, drove operational improvements, and served as executive sponsor of the company’s Women in Technology initiative. He began his career with Deloitte & Touche LLP, working with major clients including Toys “R” Us and Liz Claiborne.
Jay earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Rutgers University and a Master of Science in Accounting from Seton Hall University. He is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive) in New Jersey.
Since 2021, Jay has served Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore as Treasurer, Finance Committee Chair, and Audit Committee Member. His leadership, generosity, and commitment to empowering the next generation reflect the very spirit of this recognition.
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Gala
Aspire Technology Partners Community Partner
Aspire Technology Partners is a premier provider of advanced technology solutions and services, known for delivering innovative, tailored systems that help organizations navigate an ever-evolving digital landscape. With a focus on strategic partnership, Aspire works closely with clients to design and implement sophisticated yet streamlined solutions across complex IT environments.
Guided by a commitment to excellence and long-term impact, Aspire supports organizations in achieving their business goals through thoughtful planning, execution, and ongoing collaboration. Their work reflects a deep understanding that technology is not just about infrastructure—but about enabling people, strengthening organizations, and driving meaningful progress.
As a valued partner of Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, Aspire Technology Partners demonstrates a shared commitment to building stronger communities and expanding opportunities for the next generation. Their support helps ensure that girls across Monmouth and Ocean Counties have access to leadership development, STEM experiences, and programs that build courage, confidence, and character.
We are proud to recognize Aspire Technology Partners as our Community Partner honoree for their leadership, partnership, and investment in the future of our girls.
Women of Distinction & Community Partners
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Emerald Sponsor
Congratulations Dr. Eboné Lawrence-Smith Woman of Distinction
Your grace, leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving others continues to inspire everyone around you. Since 2011, you have been making a lasting impact and transforming lives through your devoted service to Girl Scouts. Your family is so proud of all you have accomplished and the difference you make in the lives of so many. May this recognition reflect the excellence, heart, and purpose you carry each day.
LOVE: GYASI, CADENCE, AND CALLIE
Troop #20359 Newark, NJ
Troop #73018 Long Branch, NJ
Gold Sponsor
WOMENOF DISTINCTION
-SMITH
Velma Andrews - Laura Bland- Angelne Caroll - Beverly Crudup - Sharon Dean
Zanniah N. Jones-Glover - Cheryl Grant - Liesl Griffith - Danielle M. Jones
Dr Ebone Lawrence-Smith - Lisa Lawson - Susie Morris - Lisa Scofield - Brenda J Terrell
Brenda S. Terrell-Walker - Pat Thomas - Fatima T. Williams - Nicole Woods-Jones
Ruth Williams - Dorothy Melissa Williams - Celia Younger - Felicia Younger
Congratulations to all of the Women of Distinction & Community Partners honorees...
...especially
Dr. Eboné M. Lawrence-Smith and Jay Whalen. Very well deserved!
Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Board of Directors
Alexis Bailey
Paige Baran
Diane Brock
Lauren Holman
Jacqueline K. Shea
Jan Kirsten
Jaclyn Kosco
Dr. Michael Maschi
Bob McLane
Sean Meehan
Kate Roselli
Jenna Rosenfeld
Heather Stout
Ben Waldron
Michele Wilson
N Y Wa te r w a y Sa lu te s t h e 2026
Wo m e n o f D i s t i n c t i o n & Co m m u n i ty Pa r t n e r s
A passion for purpose
PwC is proud to support the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore as part of our commitment to creating opportunities and meaningful change in the world pwc.com © 2026 PwC. All rights reserved. PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see www.pwc.com/structure for further details.
Community Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center proudly support the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and congratulate the 2026 Women of Distinction honorees.
rwjbh.org
Clara Maass Medical Center
Community Medical Center
Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center
Jersey City Medical Center
Monmouth Medical Center and The Unterberg Children’s Hospital
Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Rahway
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset
Trinitas Regional Medical Center
RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health Center
Children’s Specialized Hospital
Rutgers Cancer Institute
Congratulations to all of the 2026 Honorees!
Women of Distinction
Victoria Marie Fernandez
Grunin Foundation & Nonprofit Professionals of Color Collective
Dr. Eboné M. Lawrence-Smith Long Branch Public Schools
Pamela Monaco Ocean County College
Wendy Price Press Communications, LLC
Jeanne Wall
Hometown News & select TapInto sites in Monmouth County
Man Enough to Be a Girl Scout
Jay Whalen Shift4
Community Partner
Aspire Technology Partners
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ASPIRE TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS
Community Partner
JAY WHALEN
Man Enough to Be a Girl Scout
Ebone’, you are an exceptional leader and role model. By empowering girls to become future leaders within the community, you make a lasting impact for generations to come.
ON BEHALF OF LONG BRANCH PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND BOARD OF EDUCATION
Congratulations to our Board Member, Jeanne Wall, on being recognized as a Woman of Distinction honoree at the 2026 Women of Distinction & Community Partners Gala hosted by Girl Scout s of the Jersey Shore!
Jeanne’s unwavering leadership, ser vice, and commitment to our community truly embodies the spirit of this prestigious recognition. We are proud to celebrate her achievement s and the meaningful impact she continues to make.
In
Celebration, Monmouth Park Charity Fund
Congratulations Jeanne Wall!
The Sirico Family is so proud of all you do & how wonderful you are. We love you!
Linda & Tom
Hackensack Meridian Health is proud to support the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore’s Women of Distinction & Community Partners Gala . ■ ■ ■ Congratulations to all of tonight’s honorees.
to the 2026 Women of Distinction & Community Partner Honorees
Special congratulations to Jeanne Wall on this well-deserved honor. Your leadership, generosity, and the way you uplift others make a lasting difference in our community. I am proud to call you my friend and grateful to celebrate this special recognition with you. Wishing you continued success and happiness as you inspire so many.
- Maureen Lloyd
DR. EBONÉ M. LAWRENCE-SMITH
Being recognized as a Woman of Distinction, reflects what we have always known: you lead with purpose, compassion, and strength and you show up not only as a teacher, but as a mentor, a role model, and a steady source of encouragement for so many. The confidence you build, the curiosity you ignite, and the kindness you model ripples far beyond your classroom. You bring that same dedication and heart into the foundation you are establishing in your daughters, Cadence and Callie.
We are endlessly proud of the woman you are and the difference you continue to make. Take this moment in! You have earned it.Congratulations on this well deserved honor. We love you!
Mom, Dad, and Jordan
C O WLE YS
Live Like Jonathan Foundation
The foundation is our daily reminder to continue the legacy he left behind as a teenager and young adult.
He displayed a commitment and an obligation in doing small things with great love.
What matters is not the duration of his life but the donation of it. Not how long he lived, but how he lived.