Dr. Timothy Purnell, executive director and CEO of the New Jersey School Boards Association, honored two education leaders with the prestigious NJSBA Champion award during Workshop 2024 in Atlantic City.
Karen Cortellino, M.D., president of the NJSBA and a longtime member of the Montville Township Board of Education, who served as her board’s president from 2010-2016, received the Champion award along with Lauren Cuervo, the NJSBA’s senior director of connection, who has worked with the Association for almost two decades.
NJSBA Champion Awards are given to individuals who exemplify outstanding dedication and effort in areas such as teamwork, leadership, innovation and other qualities that help the Association advance its mission to promote the achievement of all students.
Cortellino received a community Champion Award for leadership.
“Her work as both a medical doctor and as president of NJSBA exemplifies her service to others,” Purnell said. “A trailblazer in the profession, she has served as an inspiration to our members. Through her innovative ‘learn, network, eat’ initiative, she has created a welcoming space where people can come together, share knowledge and build connections. Her leadership exemplifies the power of compassion and collaboration.”
Cuervo received an employee Champion Award in recognition of her 18 years of teamwork and innovation.
“Lauren’s exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication were instrumental in making Workshop 2024 one of our greatest successes,” Purnell said. “She inspired her team to perform at their best and fostered a collaborative spirit that ensured everything ran smoothly.”
