Genesis Research Group, a Hoboken-based international healthcare consultancy, has announced three key executive appointments aimed at strengthening the firm’s capabilities in market access, pricing, and strategic commercialization. With decades of combined experience across the United States, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, these industry veterans bring a wealth of knowledge to support pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies in navigating complex healthcare markets.
Founded in 2009 and acquired by London-based GHO Capital in 2021, Genesis Research Group has established itself as a leading provider of real-world evidence (RWE), health economics and outcomes research (HEOR), and market access services. The company partners with life sciences organizations to communicate the clinical and commercial value of their products to regulators, payers, and healthcare stakeholders worldwide.
The consultancy offers a broad range of services, including the development of value dossiers, manuscripts, abstracts, and regulatory submission materials, all designed to demonstrate the tangible impact of medical innovations. Genesis Research Group combines expert human analysis with proprietary technology platforms such as EVID AI, an artificial intelligence-powered literature review system, and the Rapid Payer Response (RPR) platform, which delivers actionable insights from a network of over 3,500 global healthcare professionals.
The firm’s “data-agnostic” approach ensures that recommendations are based on the most relevant and diverse datasets available globally, rather than being confined to limited sources. This methodology allows Genesis Research Group to provide truly independent, evidence-based guidance tailored to each client’s research and market access needs.
The recent leadership appointments are a strategic move to expand the company’s capacity for guiding healthcare clients through increasingly complex regulatory environments, competitive pricing pressures, and evolving payer landscapes. These executives will play a critical role in helping life sciences companies optimize their commercialization strategies while accelerating patient access to innovative treatments.
Genesis Research Group’s vision focuses on transforming healthcare research into actionable insights that drive better patient outcomes. By integrating technology with human expertise, the firm continues to support companies in navigating the global healthcare ecosystem with precision and efficiency.
For those interested in the latest developments in New Jersey’s business landscape and the healthcare sector, visit Explore New Jersey Business to learn more about innovative companies, strategic growth initiatives, and industry trends shaping the Garden State.
With these new appointments, Genesis Research Group reinforces its position as a global leader in healthcare consultancy, providing life sciences organizations with the tools and insights they need to demonstrate value, influence policy, and improve patient access worldwide.
Morris County continues to set an example for proactive mental health and substance abuse intervention with programs designed to meet residents where they are. The Community Connections Program, in collaboration with Hope One, recently visited Roxbury Municipal Court to provide critical mental health and recovery resources to individuals in need. The outreach emphasized education, prevention, and direct support, demonstrating the county’s commitment to combining public safety with compassionate care.
During the event, residents and court attendees were informed about available mental health and recovery services, while lifesaving Narcan kits were distributed to those at risk, their families, and concerned community members. Narcan, an easy-to-use nasal spray capable of reversing opioid overdoses, continues to be a vital tool in the fight against the opioid crisis. By the conclusion of the court visit, six Narcan kits had been handed out to court staff and attendees, equipping more community members to respond to emergencies.
“This program continues to grow and evolve,” said Morris County Commissioner Douglas Cabana, who serves as liaison to the Department of Law and Public Safety. “Our goal is simple — to help people, wherever they need assistance.” Judge Ira A. Cohen of Roxbury Township Municipal Court also commended the initiative, noting the importance of bringing support services directly to those navigating the justice system.
Sheriff James M. Gannon, the driving force behind both Hope One and Community Connections, highlighted the transformative impact of meeting individuals in their own environments. “Whether it’s on the street, in a courthouse, or during a crisis, we have the opportunity to change lives,” he said. “These programs exemplify what can happen when public safety partners collaborate with social services with empathy and focus.”
Launched in 2017, Hope One operates mobile units across Morris County, offering immediate access to recovery support and mental health services. Since its inception, Hope One has engaged with the community more than 66,000 times and distributed over 12,000 Narcan kits, underscoring its essential role in overdose prevention and community outreach.
Community Connections, initiated in 2021, specifically assists individuals facing municipal or state court charges, connecting them to mental health services, recovery resources, and social service benefits. Working in close coordination with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Superior Court, and Probation Services, including Recovery Court, the program has helped over 700 participants access the support they need to take meaningful steps toward recovery and stability.
Residents struggling with mental health challenges, substance abuse, or those recently involved with the justice system can access help through Hope One’s mobile units or by contacting the Morris County Community Connections Program. The initiative represents a model for how law enforcement, public safety officials, and social services can collaborate to provide life-saving support, foster resilience, and strengthen the community as a whole.
For more information on mental health resources, recovery services, and wellness programs across the Garden State, visit Explore New Jersey Health & Wellness.
Morris County’s approach demonstrates that when outreach is paired with compassion, education, and actionable resources, communities thrive, lives are saved, and hope is made tangible for those who need it most.
New Jersey is set to observe Veterans Day 2025 with a rich lineup of events across the state, celebrating the service and sacrifice of military veterans. From parades and formal ceremonies to special meals and cultural events, communities are coming together to recognize the men and women who have served in the armed forces. Tuesday, November 11, 2025, will be filled with opportunities for residents to participate, honor, and reflect on the contributions of veterans.
Parades and Ceremonies
Communities across New Jersey are hosting traditional parades and commemorative ceremonies, each offering a unique way to honor local veterans. The 68th Annual Middletown Veterans Day Parade kicks off on Sunday, November 2, 2025, beginning at Bayview Elementary School and concluding with a festive post-parade gathering at Mater Dei Park.
In Montgomery, a Veterans Day Observance on Sunday, November 9, 2025, will feature a procession, ceremonial honors, historical military displays, and live music, beginning promptly at 1:45 p.m. The event is designed to combine education and remembrance, providing insight into the state’s military history while paying tribute to those who have served.
On the official holiday, November 11, the Mount Holly Veterans Day Ceremony will take place at Veterans Park at 11 a.m., followed by a luncheon at Post 2692, offering both reflection and fellowship. Similarly, Toms River will host its annual parade starting at 9:30 a.m. at Main Street and Route 37, drawing veterans and local citizens alike in a vibrant display of community appreciation.
Camden’s Battleship New Jersey will hold a special ceremony to honor veterans and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps, complete with coffee and refreshments for attendees. Other ceremonies will be held at Winslow Township Municipal Building at 11 a.m., Bordentown Township, including a wreath-laying and Hometown Hero Award presentation, and Manchester Township High School at 2:30 p.m., providing multiple opportunities for residents to participate in meaningful remembrance.
Meals and Special Offers for Veterans
Many New Jersey restaurants and organizations are offering free or discounted meals to honor veterans on November 11. In Willingboro, veterans can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and program at the Kennedy Center starting at 9:30 a.m., with additional guests welcome for a modest fee. Nationwide chains are also participating: Applebee’s and Chili’s are offering free dine-in meals for veterans and active-duty personnel, while Buffalo Wild Wings provides 10 free boneless wings and fries for service members with valid ID. These gestures allow veterans to be recognized in both intimate and public settings.
Cultural and Community Events
Veterans Day in New Jersey extends beyond parades and meals, with cultural events highlighting the contributions of veterans in creative fields. The Montclair Art Museum will host an evening with actor, comedian, and Marine veteran Rob Riggle at 8 p.m., blending entertainment with storytelling and celebration. In Camden, the Veterans Day Freedom Run offers 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances at Wiggins Waterfront Park on Saturday, November 15, 2025, combining physical activity with patriotic honor.
Retailers are also taking part, offering military discounts in recognition of veterans’ service. Stores such as Target and Tractor Supply Company are providing special offers, adding practical appreciation to the day’s commemorative events.
Local businesses and creative organizations are continuing the tradition of honoring veterans through storytelling and entrepreneurship. KickCharge Creative, for example, highlights the journey of Cale Forester, a veteran and entrepreneur, whose resilience and dedication reflect the true spirit of service. Initiatives like this connect veterans’ stories to the broader community while celebrating their ongoing contributions beyond military service.
New Jersey’s Veterans Day 2025 schedule offers a wide array of ways to participate — whether attending a parade, joining a ceremony, enjoying a special meal, or engaging with cultural events. The state’s celebrations underscore the importance of honoring those who have served, reflecting both gratitude and recognition across communities.
For those looking to explore the state’s broader cultural and creative offerings alongside Veterans Day events, visit Explore New Jersey Art & Culture for insights into galleries, performances, and programs that highlight the Garden State’s rich artistic landscape.
New Jersey continues to show that honoring veterans is not only a matter of tradition but a community-wide celebration, combining history, culture, and civic pride into one meaningful day.
New Jersey’s real estate market continues to surge as 2025 winds down, with the Garden State standing out nationally for its resilience, innovation, and luxury developments. A blend of strong housing demand, expanding inventory, and major commercial projects is shaping the next chapter of real estate across North, Central, and South Jersey.
Residential Real Estate: High Demand Meets Expanding Options
For more than five years, New Jersey’s residential market has been one of the strongest in the country, fueled by migration from nearby metro areas like New York City and Philadelphia. Many buyers continue to head west of the Hudson in search of more space, better value, and suburban comfort without losing access to major job centers.
In September 2025, the statewide median home price rose 4.6% year-over-year, marking a 44.7% increase compared to late 2019. Despite the impressive appreciation, the market is showing early signs of balance thanks to an 8.7% rise in available inventory. More listings mean buyers are regaining some negotiating power after years of bidding wars and lightning-fast sales.
Still, market strength varies dramatically by region. Northern counties like Bergen, Union, and Essex continue to command top-tier prices, benefiting from proximity to Manhattan and strong commuter demand. In contrast, more rural counties such as Salem, Cumberland, and Cape May remain attractive for buyers seeking affordability and a slower pace of life.
Political Momentum Toward Affordability
Following the recent election of Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill, housing affordability has become a top statewide priority. Her administration is expected to push for expanded first-time homebuyer programs, tax incentives for developers, and streamlined approval processes to boost new housing construction. These initiatives could help offset years of limited housing supply and ease pressure on middle-income buyers struggling with high mortgage rates and rising costs.
Sherrill’s plan to encourage responsible development aligns with New Jersey’s broader economic goals — creating sustainable growth while preserving the state’s distinct character, from its vibrant downtowns to its scenic shore towns.
Commercial Real Estate: Redevelopment and Reinvention
The commercial property market remains equally dynamic. Northern New Jersey continues to see robust activity, especially across the industrial, logistics, and multifamily sectors. The state’s prime location between New York City and Philadelphia — combined with access to ports, rail, and major highways — keeps it a powerhouse for distribution and warehousing.
Recent transactions underscore the strength of the market. A 204,000-square-foot office building in Parsippany was acquired by Signature, while Legacy Real Estate secured the former Casio headquarters in Dover, signaling investor confidence in Morris County’s long-term growth potential.
Meanwhile, older office properties across the state are undergoing transformation. The shift toward hybrid work has fueled a “flight to quality,” with demand concentrating on premium Class A spaces featuring modern amenities, flexible layouts, and wellness-driven designs. Many outdated buildings are being converted into mixed-use properties or residential units to meet changing market needs.
Major redevelopment projects are also reshaping New Jersey’s skyline. In Paramus, the Garden State Plaza is being reimagined into a walkable, mixed-use “downtown” featuring retail, housing, and entertainment spaces. Elsewhere, Mount Olive and Fair Lawn are welcoming new warehouse and distribution centers, bolstering the state’s position as a logistics hub for the entire Northeast.
The Luxury Market: New Heights in Jersey City
At the top of the market, Jersey City’s Gold Coast continues to redefine urban luxury living. One of the most talked-about listings this year is the combined penthouse at 77 Hudson, a breathtaking residence that spans nearly 4,000 square feet and commands panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline.
The home blends modern design with smart technology, including integrated lighting, climate control, and entertainment systems. With two kitchens, multiple living spaces, and spa-inspired bathrooms, the penthouse showcases the next level of high-end living in New Jersey.
77 Hudson’s extensive amenities — from its fitness center and pool to its business lounge and entertainment areas — make it one of the state’s most prestigious addresses. Its location along the Exchange Place waterfront offers direct ferry and PATH access to Manhattan, reinforcing Jersey City’s role as a premier residential destination for professionals seeking luxury just outside New York City.
Axria Names William Ryan Chief Financial Officer as Company Expands Its Real Estate Footprint
Axria Inc., a rapidly growing and vertically integrated real estate development and investment company, has announced the appointment of William Ryan as its new Chief Financial Officer, effective August 2025. The move marks a significant step in the firm’s ongoing strategy to reinforce its financial foundation and strengthen its position within the competitive real estate landscape.
With an impressive career that spans decades in corporate finance, strategic growth, and real estate investment, Ryan brings a wealth of expertise to Axria’s leadership team. His appointment comes at a time when the company is expanding its operations across New Jersey and beyond, with a focus on large-scale development projects, capital optimization, and innovative investment models designed to meet the evolving needs of the modern real estate market.
In his new role, Ryan will oversee all financial operations of Axria Inc., including strategic planning, risk management, and investor relations. His leadership will be instrumental in refining the company’s long-term financial vision while ensuring a disciplined approach to capital allocation and project execution.
“William Ryan’s extensive experience and proven track record in financial management and real estate development make him the perfect fit for this role,” said an Axria spokesperson. “His insight into both fiscal responsibility and growth strategy aligns with our mission to create sustainable value for our investors, partners, and the communities we serve.”
Axria has quickly become one of the most dynamic firms in New Jersey’s real estate sector, known for its ability to integrate development, investment, and asset management under one roof. The company’s approach combines data-driven decision-making with a strong commitment to design excellence and community impact. With Ryan stepping into the CFO position, Axria aims to continue building on this success while enhancing its financial resilience in an increasingly complex market.
Ryan, who has previously served in senior financial roles for several high-profile development firms, is expected to play a key role in guiding Axria through its next phase of growth. His focus on operational efficiency and financial discipline will help position the company to pursue new development opportunities, optimize its portfolio, and navigate changing market conditions with confidence.
The appointment also reflects Axria’s commitment to recruiting top-tier leadership talent as it continues to scale its operations. Under its current executive team, the company has expanded its real estate portfolio across residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects—many of which are redefining urban living and sustainable development standards throughout the state.
Axria’s integration of investment and development expertise has made it a notable player within New Jersey’s thriving real estate market. The company’s focus on long-term growth, community engagement, and innovative design continues to attract both investors and residents looking for new opportunities in the Garden State.
For those interested in keeping up with the latest developments, investment insights, and industry news from New Jersey’s growing real estate scene, visit Explore New Jersey Real Estate.
With William Ryan now at the financial helm, Axria Inc. is well-positioned to continue its trajectory as one of the state’s leading real estate innovators—balancing growth with financial precision, and vision with value.
A Market Balancing Growth and Opportunity
While national trends show cooling in home prices due to higher inventory, New Jersey and the broader Northeast remain strong. The state’s combination of economic diversity, educational institutions, and access to top-tier jobs continues to support housing demand even as other regions slow.
As developers look ahead, the focus is shifting toward sustainability, community connectivity, and affordability — ensuring that the next decade of real estate growth benefits not just investors, but residents across the state.
From reimagined downtowns to innovative green developments and luxury penthouses overlooking the skyline, New Jersey’s real estate story in 2025 is one of transformation and momentum. It’s a market balancing strength and accessibility — a reflection of the state’s enduring appeal as both a place to live and a place to invest.
To explore more about New Jersey’s thriving business, food, and lifestyle landscape, visit Explore New Jersey’s Food & Beverage section for more insights into what’s shaping the Garden State today.
A new wave of sustainable food innovation has arrived in New Jersey. The plant-based revolution has found its next major home in Rockaway, where Meati Holdings, Inc. is now headquartered following the company’s acquisition of Colorado-based Meati Foods in late 2025. The move positions New Jersey as a new hub for food technology and alternative protein development — an industry that continues to expand as consumers seek smarter, healthier, and more environmentally responsible ways to eat.
Originally founded in 2016 by Tyler Huggins and Justin Whiteley in Boulder, Colorado, Meati Foods was launched under the name Emergy Foods with one ambitious goal: to create whole-cut meat alternatives made entirely from mycelium — the root-like structure of mushrooms. The company quickly gained national attention for its ability to produce nutrient-rich, sustainable “meat” products with impressive texture and flavor, using submerged fermentation as its key production method. Their state-of-the-art “Mega Ranch” production facility in Thornton, Colorado became a model for scalable, environmentally conscious food production.
Now, the story continues on the East Coast. Under the leadership of President Yasir Abdul, Meati Holdings, Inc. has relocated its corporate headquarters to Rockaway, New Jersey, ushering in a new era for the mycelium-based food pioneer. Abdul’s acquisition not only represents a change in ownership but also a strategic restructuring designed to strengthen the company’s national presence and streamline operations for long-term success.
With the move to New Jersey, Meati Holdings is bringing fresh energy to the Garden State’s growing food and beverage innovation sector. Rockaway offers an ideal setting — close to the New York metro area, with access to major transportation corridors and a robust network of business, research, and culinary talent. The relocation is expected to accelerate Meati’s next phase of growth, combining sustainable science with the state’s strong manufacturing and logistics infrastructure.
At its core, Meati’s mission remains focused on creating delicious, protein-packed alternatives that look, cook, and taste like traditional meat — without the environmental cost. Mycelium-based whole cuts require a fraction of the land and water used in livestock farming and produce significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions. That efficiency aligns with New Jersey’s continued push toward cleaner, more sustainable industry practices and positions Rockaway as a forward-thinking player in the alternative protein movement.
Beyond its environmental impact, Meati’s products have also won over chefs, health-conscious eaters, and investors alike. Their “whole-food” approach to alternative protein delivers naturally occurring nutrients, including fiber, iron, and vitamins, offering a genuine nutritional advantage over many processed plant-based options. As Meati Holdings sets down roots in New Jersey, anticipation is growing around potential collaborations with local culinary innovators and food distributors across the region.
The company’s arrival marks another milestone in the Garden State’s evolving food landscape, joining a lineup of forward-looking businesses reshaping how we think about what’s on our plates. From craft brewers to sustainable farms, and now to mycelium-based food pioneers like Meati Holdings, New Jersey’s food and beverage scene continues to thrive as one of the most diverse and innovative in the country. To explore more of the state’s food industry highlights, visit Explore New Jersey’s Food & Beverage section.
As Meati Holdings plants its flag in Rockaway, it’s clear that the company’s roots in sustainability and innovation are only growing stronger. What began in the labs of Boulder has now evolved into a nationwide mission — one that’s found its perfect new home right here in New Jersey.
It’s shaping up to be another big weekend for beer lovers in New Jersey. From long-awaited seasonal releases to small-batch surprises and community festivals, the state’s craft beer scene is once again proving why it’s among the most creative and dynamic in the country. Between November 7–9, 2025, breweries from Sussex County to Cape May are rolling out limited-edition pours, specialty events, and collaborations that showcase just how much local brewing has evolved.
One of the most anticipated returns this season is the Ramstein Winter Wheat 2025, crafted by High Point Brewing Company in Butler. This beloved annual release has become something of a seasonal tradition for New Jersey beer aficionados. The brewery’s Winter Wheat Doppelbock is a strong, malty German-style beer known for its deep caramel color, rich aroma, and smooth, full-bodied flavor. The release is tied to Ramstein’s popular open house event, where guests can enjoy the beer by the glass or pick up growlers, cans, and kegs to take home. For many, it marks the unofficial start of the winter beer season in the Garden State.
Adding a musical twist to the weekend’s beer lineup, Philadelphia’s synth-pop duo Work Drugs has teamed up with Double Nickel Brewing Company in Pennsauken to debut a brand-new collaboration IPA called “License to Thrive.” The beer’s official launch is scheduled for December during a live performance at the brewery, but fans might get an early taste in the taproom this weekend. Double Nickel is known for its smooth, balanced IPAs, so this collaboration promises to pair the band’s dreamy coastal vibe with a bright, aromatic hop character — the kind of beer that tastes like a good song feels.
Several of New Jersey’s most celebrated beer festivals are also taking place this weekend, each offering a chance to sample rare and one-off brews that are typically only available for a single day. The Beer BBQ Bacon Showdown in Rockaway brings together 30 New Jersey breweries, each presenting an exclusive or limited-edition beer brewed specifically for the event. Pair that with a plate of smoky barbecue and a side of live music, and it’s no wonder this festival has become one of the state’s most anticipated food and drink gatherings of the fall.
In Hackettstown, Czig Meister Brewing is hosting its Barrel Fest, an annual celebration of barrel-aged beer in all its complex, boozy glory. This year’s lineup includes more than 20 unique barrel-aged brews, ranging from deep, oaky stouts to tart sours and wild ales. For serious craft beer enthusiasts, Barrel Fest offers a deep dive into the artistry behind aging — each pour a testament to time, patience, and the brewer’s skill.
Beyond the big-ticket festivals, local taprooms and bottle shops are keeping things lively with smaller events and tastings. Petrock’s Liquors in Somerset is hosting its weekly beer tasting on Saturday, November 8, from 3 to 5 p.m., a perfect opportunity to sample some of the state’s best craft offerings in a casual, social setting.
Up north, Hackensack Brewing Company continues its weekday Happy Hour tradition, running Friday, November 7, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The local favorite is offering $5 20-ounce pours and $1 off all other beers — an unbeatable way to kick off the weekend while supporting one of Bergen County’s most beloved small breweries.
And if you’re already planning your Thanksgiving season festivities, 3BR Distillery in Keyport is getting an early start with “Drinksgiving” on Wednesday, November 26, from 6 p.m. to midnight. The event will feature craft cocktails, shot specials, and extended hours in a lively, laid-back environment. It’s a free event that’s as much about community as it is about cocktails — a reminder that in New Jersey, the spirit of celebration starts long before the turkey hits the table.
With so many breweries, distilleries, and taprooms putting their best work on display, there’s never been a better time to explore the state’s vibrant craft beverage scene. Whether you’re hunting down the perfect seasonal pour, sampling limited releases, or soaking up the friendly atmosphere at your local brewery, this weekend in New Jersey is full of reasons to raise a glass.
North Bergen, NJ — APC Postal Logistics, one of the nation’s leading privately held providers of international delivery and logistics solutions, has announced the successful completion of its SOC 2® Type I compliance certification — a significant milestone that reaffirms the company’s unwavering commitment to data protection, operational integrity, and customer trust.
The certification represents an important achievement for APC Postal Logistics, which continues to expand its role as a trusted partner for global e-commerce, direct mail, and business-to-consumer logistics. By meeting the rigorous standards established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the company demonstrates that its internal controls, systems, and data handling practices meet the highest benchmarks for security, availability, and confidentiality.
“Achieving SOC 2® compliance is more than a technical requirement — it’s a reflection of our company’s dedication to doing business the right way,” said a company spokesperson. “In a time when customers entrust us with sensitive data and complex international logistics, it’s essential that we meet and exceed every expectation for security and reliability.”
APC Postal Logistics has built its reputation as a key player in international mail and parcel delivery, leveraging advanced technology and long-standing partnerships to streamline global shipping for U.S. companies. From e-commerce retailers to corporate clients managing international communications, APC’s comprehensive infrastructure ensures fast, secure, and compliant delivery solutions around the world.
The SOC 2® Type I certification evaluates the effectiveness of a company’s systems and processes at a specific point in time, verifying that the organization’s data protection and operational controls are properly designed and implemented. It is especially critical for businesses that handle sensitive customer data, including payment information and shipping records, as it establishes independent assurance that their systems are secure and compliant with industry standards.
For APC Postal Logistics, this recognition reinforces its position as an industry leader dedicated to maintaining customer confidence. The company has continuously invested in modern technology platforms and security frameworks to ensure transparency and efficiency across every stage of its global operations — from automated sorting and customs clearance to cross-border shipping and international delivery tracking.
As digital infrastructure and global commerce continue to evolve, certifications like SOC 2® have become essential in the logistics and technology sectors. They not only validate a company’s commitment to protecting its clients but also set a higher standard for accountability and data integrity in an increasingly connected world.
With this achievement, APC Postal Logistics joins a growing list of New Jersey-based businesses that are defining the future of logistics, commerce, and cybersecurity excellence. The company’s ongoing mission remains clear — to deliver world-class service backed by robust data protection and the trust of every client it serves.
To explore more stories highlighting innovative companies and industry leaders across the Garden State, visit Explore New Jersey Business.
Wall Township, NJ — The IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) Foundation, a nationally recognized nonprofit based in New Jersey, made a major impact at ASN Kidney Week 2025, earning recognition for its growing leadership in research, advocacy, and patient empowerment. The Foundation’s achievements at this year’s conference underscore its role as one of the most influential patient organizations advancing the fight against IgA nephropathy — a chronic kidney disease that affects thousands of individuals worldwide.
At the heart of the Foundation’s presence was Co-Founder and Executive Director Bonnie Schneider, who delivered the prestigious Celeste Castillo Lee Endowed Lectureship, a keynote that resonated deeply with researchers, clinicians, and patient advocates alike. Her address, titled “The Importance of Patient Advocate Partners to Get Discoveries to the Bedside,” emphasized the urgent need for collaboration between scientists and patient-led organizations to accelerate medical breakthroughs and translate them into real-world therapies.
The Foundation also marked another milestone by presenting its first-ever research poster, reflecting a significant step in its ongoing commitment to scientific advancement. This debut not only showcased the Foundation’s expanding research capabilities but also highlighted its mission to bridge the gap between clinical science and patient experience.
In addition, the organization hosted the IgAN Therapies Forum, which gathered global experts to discuss the newest developments in treatment, ongoing clinical trials, and emerging mechanisms of action that could redefine care for patients living with IgA nephropathy. The forum fostered open dialogue on the evolving therapeutic landscape, signaling a new era of collaboration between researchers, healthcare providers, and the patient community.
Founded and headquartered in Wall Township, New Jersey, the IgAN Foundation has become a beacon of hope for patients and families navigating the challenges of this rare kidney condition. Through education, research funding, and advocacy, the Foundation continues to unite the medical and patient communities in pursuit of one shared goal — finding a cure for IgA nephropathy.
Events like ASN Kidney Week, held this year in Houston, Texas, bring together the world’s leading nephrology professionals to share groundbreaking discoveries and discuss the latest scientific advancements. The IgAN Foundation’s presence at such a prestigious event not only amplified its voice on a global scale but also reinforced New Jersey’s standing as a hub for healthcare innovation and patient advocacy.
To explore more stories about groundbreaking health initiatives and community wellness programs across the Garden State, visit Explore New Jersey Health & Wellness.
With its expanding influence and unwavering mission, the IgA Nephropathy Foundation continues to redefine what’s possible when science, compassion, and advocacy come together for a healthier future.
Bergen County, NJ — In an inspiring example of community-driven impact, Maverick’s Legacy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing choking-related fatalities, has significantly expanded its life-saving initiatives across New Jersey. Since its founding, the organization has donated over 2,100 specialized safety devices, directly contributing to the rescue of eight lives and equipping nearly 70% of Bergen County with the tools needed to respond to choking emergencies.
The organization was established in memory of Maverick Scott Chambers, a young life tragically lost to an accidental choking incident. Motivated by this personal tragedy, Maverick’s Legacy has focused on equipping schools, childcare centers, community centers, and public facilities with devices designed to help intervene quickly in choking emergencies. Each device is paired with training and educational resources, ensuring that staff, parents, and community members can confidently act in critical situations.
Beyond the immediate distribution of equipment, Maverick’s Legacy emphasizes education and prevention. Workshops, demonstrations, and awareness campaigns teach caregivers and local residents how to recognize choking hazards, perform life-saving maneuvers, and maintain safe environments for children and adults alike. This dual approach of prevention plus preparedness has positioned the organization as a model for community-based health and safety initiatives in the region.
The impact in Bergen County alone is profound. Nearly seven out of ten facilities are now equipped with devices, dramatically improving response times in emergencies. Local leaders and school officials have praised the initiative, noting that the program not only provides the necessary equipment but also fosters a culture of safety awareness and proactive intervention.
Maverick’s Legacy continues to grow statewide, partnering with municipalities, health agencies, and civic organizations to expand its reach across New Jersey. By combining innovative equipment, training programs, and public outreach, the nonprofit ensures that the memory of Maverick Scott Chambers translates into tangible, life-saving action for families throughout the state.
For New Jersey families and community members seeking guidance on safety training or to learn more about life-saving devices, additional resources are available through Explore New Jersey Health & Wellness, highlighting the importance of preparedness in everyday life.
Maverick’s Legacy demonstrates how one family’s mission can transform communities, save lives, and create a culture of vigilance that benefits children and adults across the Garden State.
New Jersey is now home to an innovative academic program that is changing the way we understand well-being. Centenary University in Hackettstown has partnered with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a globally recognized authority in positive psychology, to offer the world’s first fully accredited Master of Arts in Happiness Studies (MAHS). This pioneering program equips students with a scientific understanding of happiness and practical tools to foster well-being across personal, professional, and community settings.
Dr. Ben-Shahar, renowned for teaching two of the most popular courses in Harvard University’s history—Positive Psychology and The Psychology of Leadership—brings decades of expertise to this unique program. The MAHS combines rigorous academic study with applied methods, giving students a framework to implement happiness strategies in diverse environments, from corporations to schools to healthcare organizations.
Graduates are prepared to make an impact across diverse sectors. In corporate and organizational settings, alumni are taking on roles such as Chief Happiness Officer, HR consultant, corporate trainer, and organizational development specialist, helping businesses implement programs that enhance employee engagement, productivity, and well-being. In education, graduates are bringing positive psychology into classrooms and campuses as administrators, faculty advisors, and well-being directors, fostering environments where students and staff alike can thrive.
The curriculum is interdisciplinary, drawing insights from psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, economics, and literature. A central feature is the SPIRE model, which addresses five dimensions of human flourishing: Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Relational, and Emotional. Students learn to cultivate balance across these areas, enabling them to improve the lives of individuals, teams, and communities. While the program is delivered fully online, students also have opportunities for in-person retreats that enhance experiential learning and connection.
Graduates of the MAHS program are prepared to pursue careers in multiple fields where well-being is increasingly valued. In the corporate sector, graduates may take on roles such as Chief Happiness Officer or Human Resources consultant, designing programs to boost employee engagement, satisfaction, and productivity. Many graduates apply their knowledge to organizational development, corporate training, and leadership coaching, introducing evidence-based strategies to improve workplace culture.
In education, the program equips school administrators, educators, and university well-being directors to foster supportive environments that prioritize social-emotional learning, student mental health, and faculty well-being. Academic research roles are also available for those interested in studying human flourishing in educational contexts.
The field also extends to coaching and consulting, where graduates serve as life coaches, well-being coaches, or organizational consultants. By applying the science of happiness, they help individuals and teams set and achieve goals while enhancing overall fulfillment. In healthcare and wellness, graduates can develop and manage programs that support patient and practitioner resilience, or work as integrative health practitioners who blend positive psychology with traditional medical treatment plans.
The MAHS degree even opens doors in public policy and non-profits, allowing graduates to shape societal well-being. Career paths include advising governments and non-profits on policies that measure and promote happiness, leading community-focused mental health programs, and advancing initiatives that improve overall societal quality of life.
Centenary University’s Happiness Studies program reflects a growing recognition that well-being is not only a personal pursuit but a professional and societal imperative. By offering this accredited degree, the university positions New Jersey at the forefront of an emerging field that combines science, practical application, and leadership to create happier, healthier communities. For more information on wellness programs, education, and opportunities related to happiness and well-being, visit Explore New Jersey Health & Wellness.
