Cranford Mayor, Westfield Residents Among Union County SHERO Honorees

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Union County officials announced the recipients of the 2026 Union County SHERO Award this week, recognizing women from across the county for their leadership, service and impact within their communities.

The annual award honors women who live or work in Union County and have made meaningful contributions through civic involvement, public service, advocacy, education, healthcare, business and other community efforts.

Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek praised this year’s recipients for their leadership, compassion and dedication to improving the lives of others throughout the county.

Among this year’s recipients were several women from Cranford, Summit and Westfield.

Cranford honorees included:

• Dianna Constable
• Bette Jane Kowalski
• Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty
• Cindy Rabinowitz
• Rubina Saghir
• Bernie Wagenblast

Summit resident Jayne Myers was also recognized as part of the 2026 class of recipients.

Westfield honorees included:

• Kristen Sonnek-Schmelz
• Erica Witte

Officials said the SHERO Award is intended to recognize women whose work has made a lasting difference throughout Union County communities.

Other recipients this year represented municipalities including Elizabeth, Linden, Rahway, Berkeley Heights, Scotch Plains, Mountainside, Union, Roselle, Springfield, Plainfield and New Providence.

Nominations for the award were open to individuals age 18 and older who either reside or work in Union County.

The SHERO Award is a one-time honor recognizing women for their lasting contributions to the community, according to county officials.

More information about the Union County SHERO Award is available through the Union County Office on Women.