Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce Honors Berkeley College Leader as Community Volunteer of the Year

Photo Caption: The Middlesex Regional Chamber of Commerce recognizes Community Leaders of Distinction at Pines Manor in Edison, NJ, on May 28, 2025. Pictured (L to R) are Brittany Spanos Wooden, Executive Director, Community Outreach and Diversity Officer, Saint Peter’s University Hospital, Public Servant of the Year; Rachelle Chin, Vice President, Commercial Lending Portfolio Manager, Magyar Bank, Emerging Leader of the Year; James Marshmon, Director, Student Development and Campus Life, Berkeley College in Woodbridge and Woodland Park and Manager, Berkeley College Foundation Food Pantries, New Jersey, Community Volunteer of the Year; Kathy Shaw, Vice President, Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce; Stephanie Brown, Executive Director, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Middlesex County, Community Organization of the Year; Lucy Cordero and James Cordero, Owners, Chick-Fil-A in Old Bridge, Business Leaders of the Year; and John Ellery, Owner, Ellery’s Neighborhood Pub & Grill, HomeTown Hero of the Year. James Marshmon received the Community Volunteer of the Year Award.

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James Marshmon, Director of Student Development and Campus Life, Berkeley College in Woodbridge and Woodland Park, NJ, was honored as a Leader of Distinction by the Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce on May 28, 2025, at Pines Manor in Edison, NJ. Marshmon, who also serves as Manager of the Berkeley College Foundation Food Pantries in New Jersey, received the Community Volunteer of the Year Award.

Marshmon, an alumnus of Berkeley College, is known for his student-centered approach, organizational strength, and collaborative spirit. His leadership style emphasizes empowerment, compassion, and the creation of inclusive environments where students can thrive both personally and professionally.

“For James, giving back isn’t just a passion – it’s personal,” said Diane Recinos, EdD, President of Berkeley College. “As a Berkeley College alumnus himself, James understands the challenges students face and the difference one person can make in helping them succeed.”

As Manager of the Berkeley College Foundation Food Pantries in New Jersey, Marshmon supports efforts to combat food insecurity and support students’ well-being through access to essential resources. He coordinates volunteer opportunities each semester for students, staff, faculty, and alumni at the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, where he empowers volunteers to give back and stay engaged with the community.

A veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard, Marshmon said he seeks to instill in students the values of service, leadership, and civic engagement. He coordinates military-focused volunteer efforts throughout the year, including sending care packages and holiday cards to service members through Operation Gratitude, organizing an annual toy drive for St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Paterson, NJ, and placing wreaths at veterans’ graves on National Wreaths Across America Day.

“I want to thank all the organizations that have supported me along the way by connecting students through civic engagement and encouraging meaningful connections,” Marshmon said during the ceremony. “Thank you all for your volunteerism and for standing alongside me to accomplish our projects. This award reflects the spirit of collaboration, kindness, and the incredible power of bringing everyone together for a greater purpose.”

Other awardees included Brittany Spanos Wooden, Executive Director, Community Outreach and Diversity Officer, Saint Peter’s University Hospital, Public Servant of the Year; Rachelle Chin, Vice President, Commercial Lending Portfolio Manager, Magyar Bank, Emerging Leader of the Year; Stephanie Brown, Executive Director, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Middlesex County, Community Organization of the Year; Lucy Cordero and James Cordero, Owners, Chick-Fil-A in Old Bridge, Business Leaders of the Year; and John Ellery, Owner, Ellery’s Neighborhood Pub & Grill, HomeTown Hero of the Year.

“The Community Leaders of Distinction award honors an individual or organization whose activities have made a difference and have improved the quality of life for our neighbors and the communities in Middlesex County,” said Kathy Shaw, Vice President, Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce. “James Marshmon – our friend, colleague, mentor, and community partner/supporter – has deservingly and decisively secured the honor of being named the 2025 Community Leaders of Distinction – Community Volunteer of the Year. This award recognizes his unselfish efforts and tireless dedication to the community, the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, placing wreaths at veterans’ graves on National Wreaths Across America Day, and more so, he has fulfilled every criterion that is required for this prestigious award.”

Source: Google News