YWCA Princeton honors community leaders who embody its mission of eliminating racism and empowering women at its 41st annual Tribute to Women Awards on Thursday, March 27.
The celebration takes place at Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, in Trenton at 8:30 a.m. Cost: $90. Register at www.ywcaprinceton.org/tribute2025.
“The honorees’ dedication and resilience inspire us all to keep pushing for a more just and equitable world,” said YWCA Princeton CEO Rose Wong. “By sharing their journeys, we hope to inspire others to take action and continue the fight for equity and justice. We look forward to shining a light on their achievements and celebrating each of our honorees as true driving forces creating lasting change.”
This year’s honorees are, in alphabetical order:
Teska T. Frisby is a member of Trenton City Council, representing the city’s West Ward, and in 2023 served as council president. She is a founding member of ROSA (Rise Over Sexual Assault), which advocates for survivors of sexual assault, and is involved with Moms Demand Action, which supports measures to prevent gun violence. She worked at NJTL of Trenton for 12 years and in 2019 founded TesKonnects, a business that assists organizations with special event planning and strategic impact. A mother of three, including a child with special needs, she is also the author of a children’s book, “Different, Just Like You!”
Chantille Kennedy is a middle school counselor and co-chair of the cultural competency team at the Hun School of Princeton. As part of her role there she created “The Hun Way,” an orientation program exploring identity, culture, and diversity that has become a key part of the school’s curriculum. She is also involved in several affinity groups there. She is also the director of communications for the nonprofit MDP Cancer Fund, which supports women impacted by cancer.
Tawanda R. McCrae is a U.S. Army veteran and architectural designer for Trenton firm Clarke Caton Hintz who supports multiple area nonprofits with a focus on human and animal welfare. She is the founder of Earthways Plant-Based Living, which encourages health through a vegan lifestyle, and Cats Amazing Rescue, which rescues and rehomes cats, and is the co-founder of the Red Queen Foundation, which provides women and girls in need with feminine hygiene products and empowerment.
Jennifer Weisberg Millner, a Hopewell resident, is a matrimonial attorney with Lawrence-based law firm Stark & Stark. Her work with marginalized communities has helped advance the rights of non-biological parents and transgender children. A cancer survivor, she is a strong supporter of the Breast Cancer Resource Center and serves on the board of Dress for Success Central Jersey.
Jack Morrison, the male ally award winner, is the owner of the JM Group of restaurants in Princeton, including Blue Point Grill, Witherspoon Grill, Kristine’s, and Nassau Street Seafood. He has done extensive work on breast cancer advocacy, holding annual fundraising events through his restaurants, and also works to fight food insecurity and reduce food waste.
Cheryl Towns is a registered nurse who works to remove racial inequities in healthcare and aid underserved communities. She is the chief community care officer for Trenton Health Team, where she leads initiatives to expand healthcare access. She is also director of nursing at the Rescue Mission of Trenton. In 2024 she played a role in establishing Trenton’s first Medical Respite Center to offer those released from hospitals a place to recover.
Atiya Weiss, a longtime leader in global health and philanthropy, is the inaugural executive director of the Burke Foundation, a Princeton-based private foundation dedicated to improving the lives of children. She previously held leadership roles at JP Morgan’s philanthropy center and the Pfizer Foundation. She is also a trustee for the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers and the Princeton Area Community Foundation.
Brenda Whitaker is director of HomeFront’s Solutions Center and a diversion specialist for the Department of Community Affairs. She is also chair of the Mercer County Homeless Committee. In all of her roles her focus has been on families experiencing homelessness or poverty, single pregnant women, or those with HIV.
Tribute to Women honorees Atiya Weiss, top left, Chantille Kennedy, Jack Morrison, and Cheryl Towns; and Brenda Whitaker, bottom left, Jennifer Weisberg Millner, Teska T. Frisby, and Tawanda R. McRae. ,
