Two years ago, I made the decision to step down from my position as Executive Director at New Jersey Citizen Action. Now after 35 years, on December 31, I will be leaving a job that I love - work that I find meaningful, challenging, and exciting, and a dedicated staff, many who have become part of our extended family. Crazy? Maybe. It’s been an amazing run, but I know that this is exactly the right time for me to move on. And as I enter the next chapter of my life, I am very comfortable with this decision.
We have taken great steps to make sure the transition was as smooth as possible, and we were committed to making certain that whatever changes we made over the last two years have only enhanced the incredible work that is now being done at New Jersey Citizen Action by Dena Mottola Jaborksa and the rest of our amazing team.
Dena is not new to New Jersey Citizen Action. As Associate Director, and the Director of Advocacy before that, she worked closely with me for the past 11 years, sharing her experience, her expansive knowledge, and her well-developed skills. Dena has inspired our talented and diverse staff, and has motivated our Board of Directors, affiliates, allies, and stakeholders. Under her leadership we have expanded our base, increased our staff, and explored new relationships with our funders. I know I will be leaving you in good hands as NJCA continues to become a Bigger, Better, and Bolder organization. With Dena at the helm, I will be proud to become an NJCA Sustaining Member in January - and urge you all to do the same!
Finally, I'm not retiring - just moving on. I’m not quite ready to give up my bullhorn or turn in my organizer box. As I have said many times over the last two years- I like to think of myself as Serena Williams (as if this could ever happen) because we are both "Evolving” and I do hope you will stay tuned to hear about my next stop on this journey in life.
Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or give me a call at 973-220-3823.
Although December 31 will be my last day on staff, I will continue to champion New Jersey Citizen Action and hope you will join me by responding generously to the email from Dena requesting your year end support.
I’d also like to give a special shout out to our wonderful board of directors, staff, affiliates, allies, interns, and supporters who I have had the honor to work with these many years.
Thank you for being part of our community. Please be in touch as we continue to work committedly to make NJ a place where everyone has a voice and equal opportunities to thrive.
In solidarity,
Phyllis