BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Somerset County) — Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ-07) on Monday hosted his third annual Seniors of Distinction ceremony at the Bridgewater Township Senior Center, recognizing 33 seniors from across his district for their leadership, volunteerism, and service to their communities.
The honorees — representing Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren counties — were nominated by friends, families, and local officials for their exceptional dedication to others through charitable, spiritual, and community activities.
“Our 2025 Seniors of Distinction represent the very best of our communities,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. “Each honoree has dedicated their time, talents, and compassion to uplifting New Jersey’s Seventh Congressional District. Whether through leadership, volunteerism, or simple acts of kindness, they all share the same spirit of generosity and an unwavering commitment to serve others. I am honored to recognize these remarkable individuals and thank them for all they do to keep our communities strong, connected, and vibrant.”
Bridgewater Mayor Matthew Moench praised the event and its honorees.
“Bridgewater was proud to host Congressman Tom Kean’s ‘Seniors of Distinction’ event right here at our Senior Center,” said Moench. “It was an honor to welcome so many inspiring residents from across the district and to celebrate the remarkable contributions our seniors continue to make in their communities every day.”
Several honorees expressed gratitude for the recognition and reflected on their experiences.
“Thank you, Congressman Kean, for the honor of being considered as a Senior of Distinction,” said Paul Corcoran of Sparta. “It is an honor to be able to represent all the other seniors that are of distinction as well in our communities. I love the program, and I hope it continues and that others are inspired by the respective seniors that are here.”
“I am honored that the Borough thought I was a Senior of Distinction,” said Patricia Serrano of Mendham Borough. “I have enjoyed everything I have done for the past 60 years living there. Today, I would like to thank Representative Kean for having this ceremony and honoring the seniors.”
2025 Seniors of Distinction Honorees
- Hunterdon County:
Barbara Hencheck, David Hewitt, Kimberly Jacobus, Jack MacConnell, Carolyn Swithers, and Constance Wygera - Morris County:
Jim Daggon, Peter Maddi, Patricia Serrano, Greg Stewart, John “Jack” Sylvester Jr., and Evan “Buzzy” Thomas - Somerset County:
Robert Baker, Donna Brooten, Michael Kerwin, Kathryn Mastice, Malcolm Plager, Diana Reinhardt, and Richard Reitman - Sussex County:
Mary Comerford, Martin Connor, Paul Corcoran, Rosemarie Maio, Jonathan Taylor, Maureen Tsadilas, and Sandy Wray - Union County:
Christine Bjornstad, Alice Cowell, and Susan Meyer - Warren County:
John LaPadula, Nick Masino, Bob Wolff, and Mark Young
The annual Seniors of Distinction program was launched by Kean in 2023 to celebrate older adults who continue to serve their communities through volunteer work and civic engagement.
