The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) New Jersey Chapter announced on Mar. 10 the recipients of its 2026 Director of the Year Awards, which honor individuals and boards for excellence in corporate governance. The awards will be presented at a ceremony scheduled for May 4 at Pleasantdale Château in West Orange.
The recognition highlights the importance of strong board leadership in navigating complex business environments and fostering sustainable growth. Jeannie Diefenderfer, Board Chair of NACD New Jersey, said, “In today’s dynamic and increasingly complex operating environment, strong board leadership is indispensable. This year’s honorees demonstrate the strategic judgment, integrity, and long-term perspective that define high-performing boards and help organizations navigate risk, drive sustainable growth, and build enduring stakeholder trust.”
Ralph Izzo received the Lifetime Achievement in Governance award for his career marked by transformational leadership at Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG), where he served as chairman and chief executive officer from 2007 to 2022. Izzo’s tenure included guiding PSEG through regulatory and market transitions while strengthening operational resilience. He also holds advanced degrees from Columbia University and Rutgers University and serves on several corporate and nonprofit boards.
John Uzzi was honored for Leadership in Nonprofit Governance after a consulting career advising major companies on organizational change. Uzzi has contributed to nonprofit boards for over 25 years, including roles with Youth Consultation Services and The Center for Hope & Safety. He played a key role during regional recovery efforts following September 11 as chair of the American Red Cross Northern New Jersey chapter.
New Jersey Resources (NJR) was named Large Company Board of the Year for its governance practices supporting long-term value creation in the energy sector. Commvault received Small Company Board of the Year honors for its board’s role in transforming the company into a leader in cyber resilience.
Richard Mroz, chair of the NACD New Jersey Director of the Year Awards, said, “These honorees reflect the highest standards of boardroom leadership. Their governance exemplifies strategic clarity, ethical rigor, and accountability, qualities that are essential to organizational performance and stakeholder confidence. We look forward to recognizing their contributions to the New Jersey business community.”
According to NACD New Jersey Chapter officials, nominations are submitted by directors within the organization and evaluated by an independent selection committee made up of business and community leaders.
