SCBP to Honor Businesses, Nonprofit Leaders at 2026 Somerset Summer Social & Legacy Awards

MARTINSVILLE, N.J. — Business professionals from across Somerset County will gather next week for an evening of networking, relationship-building and recognition as the Somerset County Business Partnership hosts its annual Summer Social & Legacy Awards.

The event, scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Martinsville Gardens, is designed to bring together members of the county's business community for an after-hours networking experience while celebrating organizations and individuals whose leadership has made a lasting impact throughout Somerset County.

In addition to offering opportunities for business leaders to connect in a relaxed summer setting, the evening will feature the presentation of the Somerset Legacy Awards, which recognize organizations whose work has strengthened the county through leadership, collaboration and community investment.

"Summer is one of the best times to bring our business community together, and we're excited to welcome members and guests for an evening of networking, celebration and connection at one of Somerset County's beautiful venues," said Chris Edwards, president and CEO of the Somerset County Business Partnership. "The Summer Social & Legacy Awards is an opportunity to recognize outstanding leaders while also giving our community a chance to experience everything that makes Somerset County such a great place to live, work and do business."

This year's organizational honorees include the Bridgewater Marriott, which will receive the Tourism Partner of the Year Award for its longstanding partnership with Somerset County Tourism and its role in welcoming business travelers, conference attendees and visitors to the region. Through its support of local events and tourism initiatives, the hotel has helped strengthen Somerset County's reputation as a destination for meetings, conferences and leisure travel.

Raritan Valley Community College will be recognized as Sustainable Business of the Year for its commitment to environmental stewardship through sustainable campus operations and educational initiatives that prepare future leaders to address environmental challenges.

The Adult Day Center of Somerset County will receive the Nonprofit Partner of the Year Award for decades of providing compassionate care and support to older adults and adults with disabilities while offering resources that help caregivers continue supporting loved ones at home.

The evening also will recognize three Legacy Award recipients whose volunteer leadership and service have helped shape both the Somerset County Business Partnership and the county's business community: Thomas J. Cannizzo Jr. of Aspire Strategic Wealth, Anthony Esposito of New York Life and Jim Hannan of Withum.

"At the Somerset County Business Partnership, we believe the strength of our community is built through collaboration," said Carly Mac Manus, the organization's director of strategic communications. "The Legacy Awards recognize organizations that do not simply succeed in their own industries. They create opportunities for others, strengthen our local economy and improve the quality of life throughout Somerset County. From advancing sustainable practices and supporting tourism to providing essential nonprofit services, this year's honorees represent the very best of what it means to invest in our community."

According to the Business Partnership, each recipient has demonstrated measurable community impact through economic development, workforce support, tourism, sustainability initiatives or essential community services. While their missions differ, the organization said each shares a commitment to making Somerset County a stronger place to live, work and do business.

The Summer Social & Legacy Awards is open to members of the business community and is intended to celebrate both the relationships that drive the county's economy and the organizations that continue to make a difference throughout Somerset County.