essex county commissioners honor local leaders for women’s history month

L to R: Abbigail Powell, Phoebe Pollinger, Montclair Women's Club President President Melissa Feinberg and Treasurer Carol Schlein, Comm'r Patricia Sebold, Rita Delores Butts Stephens, Shakimah Muhammad, Comm'r Wayne Richardson, Comm'r President Carlos Pomares, Councilwoman Alicia Holman, Comm'r VP Tyshammie Cooper, Comm'r Brendan Gill, Comm'r A'Dorian Murray-Thomas, Ardelie McElroy.

(Montclair, NJ) – On Thursday, March 27, the Essex County Board of County Commissioners held its annual celebration for Women’s History Month, at the Montclair Women’s Club. This event commemorates the legacy of women’s rights and achievements, and recognizes women leaders in Essex County for their contributions to their communities.

This year, the Board recognized Bloomfield Councilwoman Monica Charris Tabares; East Orange Councilwoman Alicia Holman; Shakimah Muhammad of Newark; Ardelie McElroy of Newark; Rita Delores Butts Stephens of East Orange; Phoebe Pollinger, President of Studio Montclair; and event host the Montclair Women’s Club.

“Tonight, we remember the strides toward women's civil rights we enjoy, and the people who have sacrificed to bring them about,” said Commissioner President Carlos M. Pomares. “We also acknowledge the threats to women's freedom that persist – to bodily autonomy, to equal treatment, to reproductive rights, to maternal health – and the work that remains to be done. We are thankful for the strong women in our lives and communities of every background, they are the hearts of our communities. Congratulations to all our honorees!”

Councilwoman Monica Charris Tabares (center) with County Commissioners, Bloomfield Council members, Bloomfield Mayor Jenny Mundell (center-left), Assemblyman Mike Venezia (center-right, back), and Assemblywoman Carmen Morales (center-right)

Musical accompaniment was provided by Valarie Adams and the Dimension Band. Opening and closing prayers were provided by Rev. Dr. Eva Foster, Associate Pastor at the First Baptist Church of Vauxhall. Quitman Street School 8th grade student Abbigail Powell gave a compelling poetry presentation.

See more pictures of the event here. 

Honorees:

Councilwoman Monica Charris Tabares, presented by Commissioner President Carlos Pomares, Monica Charris Tabares has been an educator for over 30 years. She is Vice President of North Hudson Community Action Corporation Head Start, where she has been promoting outstanding preschool and bi-lingual education for many years. Her advocacy also extends to her hometown, where she has been a resident for 22 years and proudly became the first Latina Councilwoman of Bloomfield. Monica was born in Barranquilla, Colombia, and migrated to the United States with her parents and sister when she was two years old. The family eventually grew to include five children. Her parents work very hard to achieve the American Dream. Seeing her family achieve that American Dream, taught her lessons about working hard, dreaming big, and appreciating one’s culture and heritage while fitting into the expectations of American society. She attended local schools as just another American kid, but by the time she entered college, she was determined to know more about her Hispanic identity. In addition to learning family lore and Hispanic traditions, she learned to sew and to enjoy traditional Colombian dance. She earned a B.A. in English literature, a master’s degree in bilingual education, a second master’s in educational leadership, and is working toward her doctorate. She holds teaching licenses in P-3, K-5, Bilingual, Education Supervision, and Principal CE. Monica accomplished all that while in a loving marriage for 35 years and raising two wonderful children. She credits her husband, her resourceful mother, and her children for supporting her throughout her long journey. She is delighted to serve as a role model for other Hispanic young women, especially those who may doubt they can ever achieve professional success and personal happiness. She does not take anything for granted and makes no excuses for her beliefs. As a leader, she listens to all sides of every issue, and then bravely makes the tough decisions best for everyone. She wants not only to teach youngsters and guide parents but to ensure they enjoy the learning process. The Councilwoman believes we all have a right to know who we are, where we are from, and where we want to go. The people, places and stories of our past, especially of our families, are a part of the unique story of who we are. She is certain that understanding history can build everyone’s personal growth and help us connect with each other. These beliefs inform her every day and inspire all those around her to appreciate her support, admire her leadership, and enjoy her always-cheerful company not only as Councilwoman of Bloomfield, and VP of NHCAC Head Start program, but also as a daughter, sister, mother, wife, leader and good friend. She is happy to share her story as a way of reminding others they can do what they set out to do, but the best part of success is knowing you’ve helped others along the way.

Councilwoman Alicia Homan, presented by Commissioner Vice President Tyshammie L. Cooper, has proudly served the Fifth Ward of the City of East Orange as Councilwoman since 2006. She has served as Chairwoman of the City Council (2015), and on the Public Safety, Housing, Licensing & Inspection, Arts Recreation and Cultural Affairs, Law & Legislation, Finance, Business Development & Zoning, Public Works, Health & Education, Planning & Grants, Negotiation, and Personnel Committees. Councilwoman Holman is a lifelong East Orange resident who proudly attended schools in the East Orange School District. She also attended Bloomfield College and Rutgers University. Alicia has several people that are always supporting her: her significant other Wayne Adams, her daughter Quianna, her granddaughter Laila (Tootie Toot) who holds her heart, her son Zyaire, her nephew Rodney, and other nieces and nephews who lend a hand when they can. Councilwoman Holman is a member of Abyssinian Baptist Church where Rev. Dr. Johnnie D. Brooker Jr. serves as the Pastor. She is a Youth Program Specialist with the Essex County Department of Citizen Services and previously served as an Insurance Manager and Claims Adjuster Corporate Manager for an import and export packaging company. She also served as a Project Coordinator with the Newark Economic Development Corporation and Riverfront Corporation. Alicia has participated in several community events such as movie nights in the park, and “Postpartum AndMe”, founded by Nana Manu to raise awareness about postpartum depression. She partnered with Masjid As Haabul Yameen on several community events from annual community activities to donating food to the community and book bag drives. She partnered with the Arts of 4th to hold a city fair/talent show exhibiting art and creative talents of youth, and food distribution. She also partnered with 1000 Thankful Souls to hold a community dinner for thanksgiving, and with Urban Cyclery Shop for an annual bicycle tour to see East Orange development and historical landmarks.

Shakimah H. Muhammad, presented by Commissioner Wayne L. Richardson, was born in Newark, and graduated from Newark Public Schools. She attended and graduated from the University of Phoenix, where she developed a strong foundation in leadership and management skills that have greatly contributed to her success in her career. Shakimah started her journey with the City of Newark in 1999 as a Recreation Leader for 6 years. She later returned to the City of Newark as a Program Coordinator and the Manager of Newark Seniors services. Shakimah is a dedicated Manager at Newark Senior Services, overseeing transportation and special events, where she provides services to over 8,000 seniors across all five wards in Newark. With over 12 years of experience, she is committed to ensuring the well-being of the Newark senior community through efficient services and events. Outside of work, Shakimah is a proud wife, a mother of three, and a grandmother to one. Family is incredibly important to her. She cherishes the moments spent with her loved ones, and she enjoys balancing her professional and personal life. With a deep commitment to both her career and family, Shakimah strives to make a positive impact wherever she goes.

Ardelie McElroy, presented by Commissioner A’Dorian Murray-Thomas, is a dedicated community leader and a retired educator, having served with the Newark Board of Education and as a valued employee of the City of Newark. With over 40 years of active community involvement, she has lived in Newark her entire life and proudly attended Newark Public Schools. She is an active member of the Board of the Newark Teachers Union, a clergy member, and Tenant President for the Newark Housing Authority. As a mother of three, Ardelie embodies the spirit of motherhood, extending her care and commitment to her community in the Central Ward. She has notably served as the PTA President within the Newark Public School system, where she actively engaged youth and adults in various community initiatives, including educational programs, Pop Warner football, recreational activities, PAL events, and cheerleading. Ardelie is a passionate advocate for her community, ensuring that Newark’s District 18 always receives the support it deserves. She has played a pivotal role in numerous civic engagements in the city, standing firm alongside Team Baraka to promote positive change. Still vibrant and engaged, Ardelie dedicates her time to volunteering at the Hayes West Center of Hope for Women and Girls, further contributing to the empowerment and upliftment of her community. Ardelie is a member of the Phillips Metropolitan CME Church in Newark. She was also citizen clergy of the South Ward Police Department, and a Central Ward district leader.

Rita Delores Butts Stephens, presented by Commissioner Patricia Sebold, was born in Daytona Beach, Florida, moving to East Orange at the age of ten. She is one of ten children. She shares her life with her husband, Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II. She and Ted are the caregivers for two rescued furry family members, Smokie and Smitty, and they reside in East Orange. Rita received her B.A. in home economics with a concentration in child and family studies from Montclair State University, and an M.A. in administration and supervision from Kean University. Rita began her career as an educator in Montclair, New Jersey, public schools. For the past 38 years, she has honed her skills as a specialist in human services. She has served in prior capacities as a Director of Head Start and as Executive Director for non-profit organizations in New York and New Jersey. She presently serves as the Manager of Senior Services and Services for Adults with challenging abilities for the City of East Orange. She serves as an advisor to several non-profit organizations in the areas of program design and management, program governance, and family and community partnerships. Rita strives to provide innovative and high-quality social services to meet the early and advanced life needs of the entire family. She develops a healthy environment to promote trust, flexibility, and a willingness to change and adapt. Rita has received numerous community recognitions for her community and human services. She received the Shirley Chisolm Award from the Late Sheila Y. Oliver, Lt. Governor of New Jersey. She is a recipient of the Community Service Award from the North Jersey Unit of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs. She was honored by the Essex County Board of County Commissioners for her timeless efforts to serve seniors. In addition, she has served as the Region II Head Start Conference Chair. She is the recipient of the Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University Community Service Award, the East Orange Rotary Community Service Award, and the Community Service Award from the NAACP of the Oranges. Rita is a member of the Essex County and East Orange Democratic Associations, The MOLES, Inc., the East Orange Treasurers Chapter of the Red Hat Society, the National Council on Aging, AARP, and other related associations. She gives back to her community by providing love, quality outreach, resources, events, activities, and information that fulfills the needs of senior citizens and their families. She is most proud of the opportunity to help make her community “Age Friendly”. Rita enjoys spending time with her husband, traveling to Florida to visit her bestie “Momma Butts,” listening to jazz, watching movies on Lifetime, and socializing with friends.

Phoebe M. Pollinger, presented by Commissioner Brendan W. Gill, is an experienced financial professional with over 25 years of experience, and has been an art consultant for almost 30 years. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Drew University. Phoebe’s financial services experience includes tenures at the Mercury Mortgage Corporation (1971-1979), Salomon Brothers, Inc. (1979-1982), First Boston Corporation (1982-1990), and Greenwich Capital Markets (1991-1996). Since 1996, she has owned and operated an art consulting firm, PMP Art LLC, in Montclair. Phoebe is an active and dedicated member of her community, volunteering her time for organizations and programs in the arts, education, reproductive rights, economic development, child welfare, and more. She is a tireless advocate for the arts in the Montclair community. She has been a member of Studio Montclair since 1997, serving as President from 2002-2010, and 2024-present. She has chaired  members’ and international exhibitions, arranged two 92nd Street Y tours to Montclair, and oversees all programs and events, membership, fundraising and sponsorship. She has also been a member of the steering committee for the Montclair Arts Plan, a founding member and Chair (2004-2010) of the Montclair Arts Council, an advisory board member for the Montclair Center Corp. in 2003-2005, and a planning board subcommittee member on Montclair Township’s Master Plan for Arts and Economic Development in 2016. Phoebe has been a very active member of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), Essex County Section, since 1996. She has served on the Strategic Planning Committee, on the Personnel Practices Committee, as co-chair of Fine Art Committee for 4 Focus on Art fundraisers, as Exhibition Chair in 2001, on four Project Evaluation Committees, as a board member since 2004. She was also a grant writer for NCJW Essex’s annual Back 2 School Store and its Center for Women in 2012-2021. She has been a New Jersey State Policy Advocate and Chair/Co-Chair of the Reproductive Rights Committee for NCJW Essex since 2020. In 2015, she received the NCJW Essex Hannah G. Soloman Award for Service to the Community, and the NCJW Social Change Tribute Award in 2016. Phoebe is an incredibly dedicated advocate for reproductive rights, health, and justice. She was a board member of the Planned Parenthood Action Fund of NJ in 2012-2014, and has been in leadership and working group positions for the reproductive rights and health organization Thrive NJ Coalition since 2017. She has also been a speaker, moderator, and panelist for numerous programs, rallies, and presentations on reproductive health, rights and justice for over 20 years. Phoebe volunteered as a 3rd grade tutor at Gregory Elementary School in 1998-2006. She is a member of the Essex County Child Placement Review Board, and served as Chair in 1996-2002.

The Montclair Women’s Club, presented by Commissioner President Carlos Pomares and Commissioner Brendan Gill, a non-sectarian and non-partisan organization, is dedicated to helping members achieve their full potential through active engagement in the community and current affairs, artistic endeavors, environmental conservation, charitable works, and dedication to lifelong learning. Members are also committed to preserving and sustaining this historic civic institution. In 1915, twenty-three Montclair women met in the parlor of the Montclair YMCA to organize the Montclair Women’s Club “to develop individual efficiency, stimulate interest in current affairs, and encourage co-operation in all lines of progress.” Mrs. Jessie Ropes was elected first President and insisted the group join the New Jersey Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJFWC), which is part of the General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC). One month later, the group had grown to 162 members. It took 14-years before the current clubhouse on Union Street was opened in 1929. Many important community events have taken place there through the years. Through the NJFWC, founding members donated to the soldiers of  WWI. Current members sent Christmas stockings to the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Through the NJFWC, the Montclair Women’s Club provides opportunities for education, leadership, training, and community service via participation in local clubs, enabling members to make a difference in the lives of others, one project at a time. The Montclair Women’s Club works to be recognized as the premiere statewide volunteer organization that provides structure and support in pursuit of community service.