NRBP and RNF Celebrate Leadership, Legacy and Community at Annual Holiday Reception

Select members of NRBP’s Board of Directors.

NRBP’s Milestone Champion members

Newark, NJ — December 16, 2025 — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP), in collaboration with the Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), its 501(c)(3) affiliate, hosted the Annual Meeting & Holiday Reception on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Ironside Newark. One of the organization’s most anticipated gatherings, the evening brought together NRBP members, regional business leaders, and community partners to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and look ahead to the organization’s future.
 
The program featured the appointment of new NRBP Board officers and members, along with the presentation of NRBP’s inaugural Milestone Champion recognition—honoring organizations that have been devoted NRBP members since the 1950s, 1960s, or 1970s. These legacy members represent decades of sustained investment in Newark’s growth and a shared commitment to advancing NRBP’s mission.
 
Ferlanda Fox Nixon, NRBP’s President & CEO, shared that “this celebration not only acknowledged the exceptional leadership of our newly appointed Board officers and members but also the enduring dedication of our Milestone Champions. Their commitment, spanning decades, is the foundation of NRBP’s mission and a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of our business community.”
 
Milestone Champion Honorees
NRBP proudly recognized the following organizations for their longstanding membership and impact:

• Brantley Brothers Moving & Storage Co.
• Edison Properties
• Gibbons PC
• McCarter & English LLP
• NJ Advance Media
• Prudential Financial
• PSEG
• Rutgers University–Newark
• Rutgers Health
• Port Authority of New York & New Jersey
• University Hospital
• St. Benedict’s Preparatory School

 
Board Leadership Appointments
During the Annual Meeting, NRBP announced its incoming Board leadership:

• Mary Makfinsky, Popular Bank, was appointed Chair
• Mitch Cahn, Unionwear, was appointed Vice Chair
• Napoleon Stephenson, PNC Bank, was appointed Treasurer
• Sarah Jones, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, will continue to serve as Secretary
• Jennifer Mazawey was recognized for her service as Immediate Past Chair

 
NRBP also welcomed four new members to its Board of Directors:

• Anthony Borelli, Edison Properties
• Ari Fox, Audible
• Robert Johnson, Gibbons PC
• Amar Singer, IPS Security

 
Newly appointment Board Chair Mary Makfinsky shared that “it is an honor to step into this role at a moment when NRBP is both celebrating decades of commitment and charting an ambitious path forward. I look forward to working with our Board, members, and partners to build on this strong foundation and advance opportunities that benefit the Greater Newark region.”
 
The reception featured lively networking and NRBP’s signature Holiday Market, which featured Newark-based vendors and artisans. Proceeds from the event benefited the Renaissance Newark Foundation and will support its mission to advance inclusive economic development and create pathways to opportunity for Newark’s diverse communities.
 
The 2025 Annual Meeting & Holiday Reception was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors: Prudential Financial (Platinum Sponsor); Edison Properties LLC (Bronze Sponsor); Popular Bank (Holiday Market Sponsor); and United Airlines (Holiday Market Sponsor).
 
As NRBP looks ahead to 2026, the evening served as both a celebration of legacy and a reaffirmation of the Partnership’s role as a catalyst for a flourishing and inclusive region.

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About Newark Regional Business Partnership
Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) is the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. NRBP’s mission is to strengthen the business community through connections, resources, and advocacy. The organization connects its members to partners and resources that can help strengthen their business and increase the economic competitiveness of Newark and the region. For more information, visit www.newarkrbp.org.
 
About Renaissance Newark Foundation
Committed to Newark's bright future, the Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF) harnesses the power of education, research, and civic participation to fuel economic development, attract businesses, and create pathways to success for Newark's diverse communities. RNF initiatives include the Small & Emerging Business Initiative (SEBI) and Navigating Newark. For more information, visit www.newarkrbp.org/rnf.