EVENTS
2024 A Garden of Dreams Gala
July 19, 2024
The Lesniak Institute's annual Gala at Kean University this past Friday, July 19th, was an outstanding success, bringing together friends, partners, and numerous advocates for an unforgettable night of elegance and celebration. Distinguished guests and awardees graced the occasion, including Former Executive Director of the Sierra Club, Jeff Tittel, who received the Environmental Trailblazer Award; Kean University Faculty and Lecturer, Dr. Allison Edgley, honored as the Green Visionary Awardee; and Kean student Derek Gali-Martinez, recognized as the Youth Advocate of the Year. The gala, made possible through the support of Kean University and the collective efforts of our team, sponsors, donors, and volunteers,
Inaugural Fathers Day Celebration at Warinanco Park
June 15, 2024
On June 15th the Lesniak Institute along with the NAACP Elizabeth Branch, AARP, and County of Union held a Father’s Day Celebration that focused on the health and well-being of fathers and grandfathers. We were able to offer free food, free haircuts, live music, and all dads received free health checks from top medical professionals. It was a fun day for the whole family with Senator Lesniak receiving the Outstanding Supporter Award from the NAACP Elizabeth Branch.
4th Annual Pride Flag Raising
Elizabeth City Hall, Elizabeth NJ
June 13, 2024
Our 4th Annual Pride Flag Raising, a tribute to Steven Goldstein, the founder of Garden State Equality, was a resounding triumph! This has evolved into a much-anticipated community tradition, hosted by The Lesniak Institute at Elizabeth City Hall. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Bollwage for his support as we honor the LGBTQ+ community each year! Our speakers, united in their message, reminded us that while we've made significant strides toward equality, the battle is far from over. There's still much more to be accomplished!
9th Annual Raymond J. Lesniak Recovery High School graduation
Union County Vocational Technical Schools, Scotch Plains NJ
June 12, 2024
Senator Lesniak spoke at the (th annual Raymond J. Lesniak Recovery High School graduation. This is the first recovery high school in New Jersey history and continues to give students in recovery the opportunity to graduate high school with the support they need. The school continues to transcend limits thanks to the partnerships of Prevention Links, Simon Youth Foundation, and Union County Vocational Technical Schools.
Asbury Park Pride Parade.
Asbury Park NJ
June 2, 2024
The Asbury Park Pride parade has quickly become an annual tradition for The Lesniak Institute. However, this year was extra special because we had our very own Lesniak Institute float. Our float was packed with advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and, of course, Senator Lesniak. Many parade attendees approached our president and thanked him for the work he has done for LGBTQ+ rights. The Lesniak Institute is grateful to the event coordinators for allowing us to have our first pride float!
Rutgers Hall of Distinguished Alumni Ceremony
Stone House at Stirling Ridge, Warren NJ
April 25, 2024
The Rutgers University Hall of Distinguished Alumni ceremony was a grand affair, filled with glamor, celebration, and the highest recognition awarded to their esteemed graduates. Senator Lesniak and The Lesniak Institute team eagerly awaited this night. We are proud to have Senator Lesniak, a fearless and ambitious leader, at the helm of the Institute!
LGBTQ+ Roundtable Discussion with the Human Rights Institute
Kean University GLAB, Union NJ
April 24, 2024
The LGBTQ+ Roundtable discussion was hosted by the Kean Human Rights Institute. It's important to continue having open conversations about struggles in the LGBTQIA+ community and more importantly, finding solutions! Senator Lesniak was able to inspire all in attendance with his personal history fighting for the LGBTQ+ community and offer hope for moving forward in the battle. Kean students & faculty, and members of the LGBTQ+ community were in attendance and shared their own experiences, anecdotes, and solutions for LGBTQ+ issues.
Breaking Barriers Conference
Kean University STEM Building, Union NJ
April 4, 2024
The Lesniak Institute, the House of Hearts Network, and the Latino Action Network Foundation held the first annual Breaking Barriers conference. The event's purpose was to give high school and college students the proper resources and paths of communication they need to become advocates and leaders within their community and life in general. With over 200 attendees from all over the country, this event proved to be one the Lesniak Institute will continue to support.
Book signing with George Castro
Freedom Fund Dinner
February 10, 2024, Kean University STEM Building, Union:
3rd annual Caldwell University Social Justice Symposium
March 1, 2023, Caldwell University, Caldwell:
Community Garden Day
May 15, 2024, Kean University Community Garden, Union:
10th Year Celebration of Marriage Equality
Kean University, Union NJ
October 17, 2023
The Lesniak Institute celebrated 10 years of marriage equality in New Jersey. The Lesniak Institute invited all the key legislators and trailblazers that made marriage equality possible, some which include Senator Loretta Weinberg, Golden State Equality Founder Steven Goldstein, former Senator Bill Baroni and Assemblyman Tim Eustace and Assemblyman Jamel Holley. The discussion was moderated by Tom Moran, throughout the event important questions were had on what work still needs to be done to ensure LGBTQ+ rights are safe tomorrow and forever.
2023 Summer Gala.
June 29, 2023
We hope you all enjoyed a beautiful night full of live music, delicious food and the company of our honored guests. We hope all of our guests were able to connect more with our mission and what the institute does for our community. We are grateful for everyone's support of the institute and cherished all the kind words from our speakers. For the individuals we awarded, the institutions we honored, we hope that together we can keep driving forward our mission and creating a lasting change in our society.
Ukrainian Orphans Coalition Visit to DC
Washington, DC
June 25 & 26, 2023
June 25 & 26, 2023, Washington, D.C. : In the summer of 2023, the Lesniak Institute team and our summer interns traveled to Washington, D.C., to find a solution to unite over 300 Ukrainian Orphans with their American Families. A Coalition of parents, volunteers, and advocates called Ukrainecare300 shared their stories and gave us firsthand experiences of the trauma their kids are facing. Our interns were able to experience advocacy in real time as we met with officials from the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Lesniak Institute is still fighting for these families to be reunited.
Pride Flag Raising
City Hall, Elizabeth NJ
June 12, 2023
June 12, 2023, City Hall, Elizabeth: The Lesniak Institute hosted its third annual pride flag raising in front of Elizabeth City Hall. Speakers at the event included: Mayor Christian Bollwage, Mayor of Elizabeth NJ;, A Student leader from Kean University’s PRISM; Danni Newbury, Coordinator at Office of LGBTQ Affairs Union County; Brielle Winslow-Majette, Deputy Director at Garden State Equality; Jeremiah La Porte, Student at Elizabeth Stem Academy; Marlene Cruz, LAC, YES Program Youth Development Specialist at Trinitas Regional Medical Center; Sergio Granados; Union County Commissioner; Maria Carvalho, Board of Education Elizabeth
State House Visit.
with Kean Students and Interns
April 24, 2023
April 24, 2023, NJ State House, Trenton: The Lesniak Institute along with our Kean University class on Social Movements and Civic Engagement attend the assembly budget hearing on Education. Students then explored the both the Senate and General Assembly chambers Our interns then met with a former intern and current employee who shared her experience working as the deputy press secretary for the Assembly Democrats.
Celebrating Women Breaking Barriers in Public Service.
Honoring Groundbreaking Women in Union County
March 30, 2023
On March 30th, 2023, The Lesniak Institute, NAACP Elizabeth Branch, and Kean University Office of Government Affairs and Community Partnerships hosted Celebrating Women Breaking Barriers in Public Service to honor groundbreaking women in Union County. There were two awards given out, The Unsung Hero Award and The Outstanding Public Service Award. The Unsung Hero Award is a prestigious accolade given to an individual who has made an extraordinary contribution to their community. This award aims to recognize and honor those individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often without seeking recognition, to make a positive impact on their community. The Outstanding Public Service Award is a prestigious recognition given to women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service in their public sector careers. This award celebrates women who have broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings to make significant contributions to their communities and society as a whole. The event was moderated by Shakira Johnson, the Founder and Chief Impact Officer of J.PR & Events. Speakers at the event included: Shawn McClain, President of Elizabeth NAACP; Senator Lesniak, Former State Senator; Annette Quijano, Assemblywoman LD 20; Sancha Gray, Senior Vice President for Entrepreneurial Education Initiatives; Patricia Perkins-Auguste, Councilwomen- at- large Elizabeth. Honorees at the event included: Katherine Carter, Elizabeth Presbyterian Center; Georgie Jones-Orr Esq., Attorney at Law, Former Municipal Court Judge; Romina Cannon, Elizabeth Police Department; Chessie Dentley Robinson, Educator and Civil Rights Trailblazer; Sheena Spence, Educator and Civil Rights
Trailblazer; Elizabeth Ragone, Emilio’s Bayway Florist.
Book signing with Ted Zangari
Book signing at Rowan University
Lecture with Honor Students and Book Signing at Rowan University
Lecture with Honor Students and Book Signing at Saint Elizabeth University
Here’s Our Story Book signing
Book signing at Suburban Golf Club
NJ Bar Conference 2023 Book Signing
The Albert Dorman Colloquium Series Spring 2023 NJIT
NJ DOC Ombudsperson Open Meeting
January 19, 2023: In January Senator Lesniak and the Lesniak Institute met with the Department of Corrections and Ombudsperson to discuss the implementation of Earn Your Way Out and the Solitary Confinement Act. Our goal was to collect data on the current programs and ways that it can improve. Senator Lesniak is proud to be one of the main sponsors for these programs and wants to continue to see it grow and be implemented to improve the lives of justice involved individuals.
Black History Month and Civics Education Movie Nights
February 23, 2023, Kean University Cougar’s Den, Union: In celebration of Black History Month, the Lesniak Institute for American Leadership, in partnership with the Holocaust Resource Center, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Office at Kean University, and the Kean Center for Interdisciplinary Studies, hosted a series of Civics Education Movie Nights. This event series featured powerful films that highlighted significant moments and figures in Black history, sparking important conversations about civil rights, social justice, and the ongoing struggle for equality.
Come Wine With Us Fundraising Event
March 5, 2023, Angelina Tavern, South Plainfield: The Plainfield Area Humane Society hosted a successful fundraiser supported by the Lesniak Institute for American Leadership. The event, held at Angelina’s Tavern, included live and silent auctions, as well as food and drinks, all aimed at raising funds to support the humane society’s mission of finding loving and safe homes for homeless pets. The support from the Lesniak Institute underscores the importance of community partnerships in advancing animal welfare and ensuring that pets in need receive the care and shelter they deserve. We are always looking for ways to help and partner with our grassroot partners.
2023 State Bar Association: Prosecuting Animal Cruelty Cases – Past, Present, and Future
May 18, 2023, Borgata Hotel, Atlantic City: The Lesniak Institute for American Leadership attended the 2023 Bar Conference and supported the panel discussion called: “Prosecuting Animal Cruelty Cases – Past, Present, and Future,” co-sponsored by the Animal Law Special Committee and Criminal Law Section. The program reviewed the evolution of animal cruelty laws, highlighted the role of Humane Law Enforcement Officers (HLEOs) in Jersey City, and featured a presentation by Senator Raymond Lesniak on courtroom animal advocacy laws and pending legislation. This event was essential for educating and inspiring continued efforts in combating animal cruelty.
Yappy Hour
May 18, 2023, Montclair Brewery, Montclair: The Lesniak Institute for American Leadership proudly supported Humane Montclair’s Yappy Hour event where Senator Ray Lesniak was a key guest. Senator Lesniak engaged with pet owners about the critical need to elect animal-friendly legislators in NJ this November and spoke to pet owners about pending legislation. The event was a great success, welcoming attendees with or without their furry friends and featuring food from local restaurants, fostering a lively environment for discussing animal welfare and important legislative issues.
Pride in the Park
June 1, 2023, Alan M. Augustine Village Green, Scotch Plains: The Lesniak Institute for American Leadership supported Scotch Plains’ ‘Pride in the Park” event, which kicked off Pride Month at the Alan Augustine Village Green on June 1. The event celebrated equality, acceptance, and respect with live music, community group information, a street artist, and various crafts and activities. Deputy Mayor Ellen Zimmerman highlighted the township’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, emphasizing Pride Month as an opportunity to honor the achievements and resilience of LGBTQ+ residents and the broader community.
Asbury Park Pride Festival
June 4, 2023, Asbury Park, NJ: The Asbury Park Pride Festival has always been a special event for Senator Lesniak, and in 2023, the Lesniak Institute proudly joined the celebration for the first time. We set up a table to connect with attendees and share our mission of safeguarding LGBTQ+ rights. Our team and volunteers engaged with festival-goers, discussing the Institute’s efforts to protect and advance LGBTQ+ rights. Our participation highlighted our dedication to the community and provided an opportunity to celebrate diversity and inclusion alongside other passionate advocates. It was an inspiring experience that reinforced our commitment to creating a more equitable society.
Elizabeth NAACP Juneteenth Celebration
June 23, 2023, Elizabeth, NJ : The Elizabeth NAACP hosted a Juneteenth Celebration, marking a significant event in the community’s calendar. The event featured various activities, including performances, educational presentations, and cultural exhibitions, all aimed at honoring and reflecting on the significance of Juneteenth. It served as a vibrant celebration of freedom and African American heritage, bringing together community members to commemorate this important day in history.
Raymond J. Lesniak Experience Strength and Hope Recovery High School Graduation
June 14, 2023, Union County Magnet High School, Scotch Plains: The Raymond J. Lesniak ESH Recovery High School in Roselle, NJ, celebrated its eighth annual graduation ceremony on June 14. Established in 2014, the school provides essential support and education to teenagers facing substance use disorders on their path to recovery. The event honored the graduates and recognized those who have made significant contributions to the recovery community. Notably, graduate Jose P. received a $3,500 scholarship from the Simon Youth Foundation, presented by Andrea L. Neely, President and CEO of the foundation. The ceremony also highlighted the vital role played by Prevention Links in supporting the students and expressed deep gratitude for their ongoing contributions to the school’s success.
Hollywoof Dog Event
June 17, 2023, ShoreTown Ballpark, Lakewood: The Lesniak Institute supported the Hollywoof Dog Event, organized by Rasking Ridge. The event featured a variety of activities for dogs and their owners, including pet-friendly games, contests, and opportunities to connect with fellow dog enthusiasts. It was a fun and engaging day that celebrated pets and strengthened community connections.
DOGust Celebration
August 12, 2023, Jerseyland Park, Scotch Plains: The Lesniak Institute along with our interns were porous to table at the DOGust Celebration Event hosted by the Township of Scotch Plains. The event is meant to be a universal birthday party for adopted and rescued dogs in Scotch Plains. There was also dogs that are currently up for adoption that attended the event with some being adopted right there on the spot!
Kean Day
September 8, 2023, Kean University Cougar Walk, Union: The Lesniak Institute was proud to welcome the incoming freshman and returning students at Kean University. Kean Day was hosted by the Miron Student Center, and it is a day of fun and activities where all the students on campus get to explore the different organizations and offices on campus. We encourage all students to get involved on campus and to be aware of all the resources available to them through the university.
Kean University Career, Internship and Part time Job Fair
September 28, 2023, Kean University Cougar Walk, Union: The Lesniak Institute joined the Office of Career Services at Kean at the Internship and Part Time job fair. The Lesniak Institute was able to talk to students at all levels about the types of internships we offer. We are proud to say that we were able to give four Kean students internships for the fall semester and each of these interns played a key role in the success of the Lesniak Institute.
North Brunswick Humane Association Dog Walkathon & Adoption event
October 1, 2023, North Brunswick Community Park, North Brunswick Township: The Lesniak Institute joined the North Brunswick Humane Association for their annual dog walkathon and adoption event. We met with other animal welfare organizations and talked on how we can better support our animal friends and informed the attendees on why adopting is better than shopping at puppy mills. Also, we are proud to say that 7 dogs were adopted from the event.
L.E.A.D Community Leadership Meetings
October 5, 2023, Salvation Army, Elizabeth: Throughout 2023 the Lesniak Institute along with Senator Lesniak joined a coalition of organizations throughout Elizabeth and Union County on different ways we can positively impact our community.
Summit on Building and Equipping the Beloved Community
October 12, 2023: Through a virtual meeting Senator Lesniak joined a group of community leaders and members of the Episcopal church. Through this discussion Senator Lesniak discussed alternatives to incarceration for substance abuse disorders. They also discussed the different ways to advocate for criminal justice reform. The Keynote speaker, Senator Raymond Lesniak described the transformative potential of diversion programs in New Jersey.
JOBS Plus Recognition Ceremony
October 26, 2023, Kean University Stem Building, Union: The Lesniak Institute for American Leadership proudly supported the Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth during their annual JOBS Plus Recognition Ceremony, held at Kean University. This event celebrated the achievements of students who have made significant progress in the JOBS Plus program, recognizing their hard work and dedication with various awards. The ceremony was a notable occasion, featuring a range of activities, including a reception with delicious food and refreshments. It provided an opportunity to honor the accomplishments of the students and acknowledge the contributions of those who have supported the program’s success.
Carnegie Hall Recital
October 31st, 2023, Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall, New York City : The Lesniak Institute along with Senator Lesniak were proud to honor The Miracle Voice Ensemble, one of the first ensembles consisting of singers afflicted by development disorders. Despite facing numerous challenges, the members are dedicated artists with a profound love for music. Their performances deeply resonate with audiences and advocate for greater awareness of disabilities, fostering social understanding and providing hope and encouragement to others facing similar challenges.
No More Mass Shootings & Gun Violence:
Youth Violence Prevention Symposium
September 20, 2022
On September 20th, 2022, The Lesniak Institute and NAACP Elizabeth and Hillside chapters hosted a Youth Violence Prevention Symposium “No More Mass Shootings & Gun Violence” to discuss viable solutions to gun violence in our k-12 institutions. The event was moderated by Nicole Graves-Watson, Hillside NAACP President. The event started with a performance from the Elizabeth Youth Ensemble. Speakers at the event included: Shawn McClain, President of Elizabeth NAACP; Senator Lesniak, Former State Senator; Sancha Gray, Senior Vice President for Entrepreneurial Education Initiatives; Jamel Holley, Former Assemblyman D20; Earl Graves, Elizabeth Police Director; Liza Chowdhury, Project Director of the Paterson Healing Collective; and Casey Melvin, co-founder of Men Stand Up Anti-Violence.
Pride Flag Raising :
The city of Elizabeth
June 15, 2022
On June 15th, 2022, The Lesniak Institute and partners in the community hosted the second annual Pride Flag Raising in the City of Elizabeth. City officials, students, teachers, and local grassroot organizations gathered in celebration. The raising of the flag was a great symbol to show that the city of Elizabeth cares and supports our diverse communities. Our speakers included Mayor Christian Bollwage, Mayor of Elizabeth NJ; Rashaad Couloote, A Student leader from Kean University’s PRISIM, a LGBTQ club that promotes a safe space on campus for all students; Danni Newbury, Coordinator at Office of LGBTQ Affairs Union County; Brielle Winslow-Majette, Deputy Director at Garden State Equality; Jeremiah La Porte, Student at Elizabeth Stem Academy; Marlene Cruz, LAC, YES Program Youth Development Specialist at Trinitas Regional Medical Center; Sergio Granados; Union County Commissioner; Marie Cavallo, Board of Education Elizabeth Public Schools.
March For Our Lives :
Rally to Stop Mass Shootings & Gun Violence
June 11, 2022
On June 11th, 2022, The Lesniak Institute and community partners hosted a March for Our Lives Satellite Rally and March in Roselle to gather and educate the community about gun violence and the lasting effects and leave them with a call to action to contact their legislators. The march was called in light of the tragedy at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, TX, and Buffalo, NY. Our co-sponsors included New Jersey Education Association, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People- Elizabeth Chapter, National Association of Social Workers- NJ, Moms Demand Action, Kean University Human Rights Institute, Be the Change NJ.
The Criminalization of Mental Illness:
Treatment, Imprisonment, or Both
Treatment, Imprisonment, or Both
October 7, 2021
On October 7th, The Lesniak Institute hosted a round table discussion about the benefits of Mental Health Courts in New Jersey. The Criminalization of Mental Illness: Treatment, Imprisonment, or Both, included a panel of experts and advocates shared their knowledge and opinions on the pressing issue. Panelists presented proposed legislative changes, current status of mental health diversion programs from criminal penalties, and demonstrated the need for our criminal justice system to change to better address the needs of those with mental illness. The forum was moderated by Dr. Jonathan Mercantini, Dean of Kean University’s College of Liberal Arts. Dr. Christine Montross, author of “Waiting for an Echo: The Madness of American Incarceration,” delivered the keynote address during the event. Speakers at the event included: Joseph Krakora, N.J. State Public Defender; Ted Romankow,Esq, Mental Health Pioneer and Former Union County Prosecutor; Robert Miseo, Public Defender, Union County; Cory Storch, Executive Director of Bridgeway; William Daniel, Former Drug Court Judge, current Union County Prosecutor; and Maureen O’Brien Consultant, CIT-NJ.
A Conversation to Combat Systematic Inequities
July 8, 2020
The senseless killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis ignited a spark in African American communities across America. A virtual forum was held to keep that spark alive and create an ongoing network to address systemic inequities. Participants of the network committed to join the Social Justice Network where the following priorities were decided (1) creating a culture change within the criminal justice system to focus on rehabilitation; (2) closing and reducing the education performance gap and reduce infant and maternal mortality in low-income families; (3) and addressing the disparities in equity for minorities in the Housing Sector. This event was co-hosted by the Human Rights Institute at Kean University.
SUPER TUESDAY PANEL
March 2, 2020
On March 2, the Lesniak Institute hosted a panel of experts in a discussion about the significance of Super Tuesday and what the results could mean in this political climate. Speakers included Max Pizarro as Moderator: Editor-in-Chief & Co-Founder, InsiderNJ, Senator Raymond Lesniak: Former Senator, State of New Jersey, Senator Joe Pennacchio: NJ Co-Chair Donald Trump Campaign, Michael Muller: NJ State Director Michael Bloomberg Campaign, Larry Hamm: Chairman, Bernie Sanders 2020, NJ Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora: Pete Buttigieg Campaign, Councilwoman Patricia Perkins-Auguste: Joe Biden Campaign, Saily Avelenda: NJDSC Executive Director, Tony Teixeira: Elizabeth Democratic Chairman, Alan Steinberg: Politics Writer and Radio Commentator, InsiderNJ Paul Mulshine: Columnist, Star Ledger
ANTI SEMITISM FORUM
January 30, 2020
In response to the rise of antisemitic violence and hate crime incidents, a forum was held to call for the end of hate speech, and pledge to stand up for others when hate speech is directly at them. This event was co-sponsored by the Holocust Resource Center at Kean University.
A working group was created from this discussion with the mission to implement the Stand Up for the Other Pledge within the diversity council’s network.
2019 Fall Gala
October 24, 2019
We hope you were able to get to know new fellow advocates and connect with old friends, while enjoying a delicious meal, listening to the string trio, and deciding where to place your tickets out of over 12 pick-a-prize auction items.
Additionally, we hope you got to know The Institute, its values, and mission a bit more, including this year's honorees, working hand-in-hand with The Institute: Free All Captive Elephants and The Rutgers University Student Animal Legal Defense Fund. We hope their missions and passions have provided further inspiration to continue advocating.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
GOLD SPONSOR
SILVER SPONSORS
Recovery High School Graduation
June 12, 2019
The Lesniak Institute participated in the Recovery High School Graduation at The Union Vocational Technical School on June 12 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
Earn Your Way Out Forum
May 20, 2019
The Lesniak Institute hosted a forum at Kean University on the topic of Earn Your Way Out (S761/A1986), the most significant criminal justice reform in America. Representatives from all over the state joined the conversation including senators, former incarcerated people, and students.
Chelsea Clinton: Discussion & Book Signing
April 4, 2019
The Lesniak Institute, in partnership with Kean University, hosted best selling author Chelsea Clinton on Thursday, April 4. After an on stage discussion and Q&A session, Ms. Clinton signed her new children's book, Don't Let them Disappear, for over 300 audience members.
Toys for Hospitalized Children
November 20, 2018
In the 2018 year, The Lesniak Institute partnered with Toys for Hospitalized Children four times to spread joy and toys to children at local hospitals and specialized centers. This partnership brings joy to The Institute & its founder, Sen. Raymond J. Lesniak
Let's Clear The Air
November 14, 2018
The Lesniak Institute For American Leadership, Earth Science Club, and New Jersey Higher Education Partnership for Sustainability hosted Let’s Clear The Air to raise awareness and embolden students to take action to improve NJ air quality by creating an open forum for discussion amongst students, community members, and environmental advocates.
Fall Gala
October 25, 2018
The Institute hosted its first gala to show its supporters its goals for the 2018 year, along with food and entertainment at Ursino restaurant. The Founder & President, Sen. Raymond J Lesniak provided a keynote address and spoke about the ever-growing need for advocacy training.
Nosey's Law Rally
October 14, 2018
Save Nosey Now and The Lesniak Institute partnered for a protest at CURE Insurance Arena. This protest brought advocacy to the forefront of abuse to animals in circuses and traveling acts. Many showed up to speak out against the use of wild animals, outside of the circus.
Adopt-A-Park
September 16, 2018
We partnered with Union County Parks & Recreation and Kean University’s Center for Leadership and Service to improve Union County’s environment. Together, we removed invasive plant species, cleaned litter, and enjoyed a day in nature at the North Plainfield park.
National Day of Service and Remembrance
September 11, 2018
On 9/11/2018, our Founder & President, Sen. Raymond J. Lesniak was the guest speaker for Kean University’s National Day of Service and Remembrance. Following the address, students, faculty, and members of the community visited Kean’s 9/11 memorial and were invited to make PB&J sandwiches for the homeless at Newark, Penn Station.
The Laramie Project: Stand Up For The Other
July 12, 2018
The Lesniak supported The Elizabeth High School Jefferson Arts Academy performance of The Laramie Project: a play about 21-year-old Matthew Shepard who was brutally beaten and left to die in Laramie, Wyoming all because he was gay. The play brought awareness to the tragedy of bigotry. At the end of the play, students and community members in attendance took the #StandUpForTheOther Pledge with us.
Youth Against Gun Violence Roundtable
April 15, 2018
High school students from throughout Union County gathered for a roundtable discussion about youth activism against gun violence at the inaugural event of Kean University’s Lesniak Institute for American Leadership. Students discussed the potential impact of proposed gun legislation on their communities and debated the merits of arming teachers.
