Aletha R. Wright Award

The New Jersey Early Care and Education Alliance

THE ALETHA R. WRIGHT AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION

The Award is named for Aletha Wright (1949-1994) who served tirelessly for the benefit of children and families throughout the State of New Jersey and the United States. Aletha's characteristics of leadership, dedication and excellence was recognized by the New Jersey Child Care Advisory Council and now by the New Jersey Early Care and Education Alliance. The award is presented in her memory.

Aletha was a charter member of the Child Care Advisory Council and represented the Deportment of Human Services and the Division of Youth and Family Services during her appointment as Director of the Department's Office of Child Care Development. She later became Assistant Director in the Division of Family Development and worked in the Office of Policy and Planning in the Governor's Office. In 1993, Aletha was elected to the Camden County Board of Chosen Freeholders. 

The Child Care Advisory Council (1983-2008) presented the Aletha Wright Award at its annual luncheon from 1995 until 2008. The New Jersey Early Care and Education Alliance resumed presentation of the award in 2011. Individuals and organizations may submit nominations; equal weight is given each nomination, whether from an individual or an organization. Nominees remain eligible for three years. Persons nominated in previous years may be nominated again. ARW Award nomination form

Aletha Wright Award for Excellence in Early Care and Education Award recipients

2016 recipient Elmoria Thomas (left) and 2017 recipient Ana Berdecia (right)

2015 recipient Mary Jane DiPaolo and 2014 recipient David Harris

2012 recipient Beverly Wellons (left) and 2013 recipient Diane Genco (right)

2011 recipient, Terri Buccarelli