Sheila Y. Oliver Foundation Celebrates Women's Leadership at Second Annual Legacy Brunch

The Sheila Y. Oliver Foundation recently hosted its second annual Legacy Brunch, a significant event that brought together over 350 guests from various sectors to celebrate the legacy of the late Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver and honor nine influential women leaders in New Jersey. Held at the Valley Regency in Clifton, the event underscored the foundation's commitment to empowering underserved communities and fostering the next generation of women leaders in government, public policy, and community organizing.

Governor Phil Murphy highlighted the honorees' contributions, noting their embodiment of the integrity, compassion, and tenacity that Sheila Y. Oliver championed. The event featured a keynote address by Tisha Campbell, an award-winning actress and Newark native, who reflected on Oliver's enduring influence and the importance of leadership in underserved communities.

The brunch also served as the platform for the foundation's official rebranding to the Sheila Y. Oliver Foundation, signaling its expanded vision for civic engagement and leadership development. Renee Oliver, the foundation's president, emphasized the event's dual focus on honoring Sheila Y. Oliver's legacy and inspiring collective action towards a brighter future.

Among the highlights were the recognition of the 2025 Rutgers University-Newark Sheila Y. Oliver Center for Politics and Race in America student interns and the announcement of the 2025 Lincoln University Sheila Oliver Memorial Scholarship recipient. The event, supported by sponsors like United Airlines and PSEG, not only celebrated achievements but also fostered networking and empowerment among attendees.

The Sheila Y. Oliver Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in advocating for economic and social success in underserved communities and in nurturing young women of color interested in public service. The Legacy Brunch stands as a testament to the foundation's ongoing efforts to carry forward Sheila Y. Oliver's mission and impact.