Although I arrived early and stayed through the evening, the scale of the event made it easy to miss certain moments. According to the day’s program, Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill delivered opening remarks, reinforcing her administration’s commitment to strengthening maternal and infant health systems statewide.

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Statement by Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill on Reaffirms Commitment to Accountability and Transparency

Exclusive Press Access

Upon arrival, I was personally received by Maggie Garbarino of the First Lady’s office — a gesture of professionalism and courtesy toward the media. Later in the afternoon, I was escorted along with a small group of just four reporters into a private press room where First Lady Tammy Murphy addressed the media directly and took questions.

Though I chose not to ask a question, I thanked her for her work and dedication. She shook hands warmly and expressed gratitude — a gracious moment marking her final Nurture NJ Summit as First Lady of New Jersey.

Throughout the day, I conducted multiple Live broadcast segments from the TIO Facebook page and my personal account, giving our readers real-time access to the atmosphere, speakers, and community energy inside the fully packed Hilton ballroom.

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill Appoints Kellie Doucette as New Jersey’s First Chief Operating Officer

A Statewide Movement Built Over Eight Years

“It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve New Jersey’s moms and babies,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy in her emotional remarks. She reflected on the eight-year journey of Nurture NJ — once an idea and now a nationally recognized statewide movement.

During her tenure, New Jersey saw dramatic progress:

  • Maternal mortality ranking improved from 47th to 25th nationally

  • Over 70 pieces of maternal and infant health legislation were signed

  • The Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority was established

  • The Trenton-based Innovation Center broke ground in July 2025

  • The state launched Family Connects NJ, the most robust universal nurse home visitation program in the country

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill Condemns Federal Move to End Hepatitis B Vaccine Recommendation for Newborns

Murphy reminded attendees that despite progress, the work is “far from over,” but community momentum gives her “tremendous hope for the future.”

Sherrill’s Commitment to Equity

Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill, in her remarks earlier in the program, emphasized that the inequities facing Black mothers remain unacceptable. She pledged to:

  • Strengthen Nurture NJ

  • Support doulas and midwives

  • Expand culturally competent maternal health services

  • Continue long-term maternal health reforms

Her message signaled continuity — and urgency — as she prepares to lead the state.

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill Announces Lieutenant Governor-elect Dr. Dale G. Caldwell as New Jersey’s Next Secretary of State

Panels Focused on Trust, Community, and Equity

The Summit featured renowned voices, including:

  • Latham Thomas, founder of Mama Glow, as keynote speaker

  • Lisa Asare, President & CEO of NJMIHIA

  • Dr. Ndidiamaka Amutah-Onukagha, Tufts University

  • Sinsi Hernández-Cancio, JD, National Partnership for Women & Families

  • Jaye Wilson, Melinated Moms

  • Kenn L. Harris, The League of Voices

  • Christy Turlington Burns, Every Mother Counts

  • Shakira Williams-Linzey, March of Dimes

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill Condemns Trump Administration for “Abuse of Power” in Attack on Senator Mark Kelly

Speakers centered community leadership, father inclusion, culturally competent care, and breaking down systemic silos that limit access to equitable maternal health outcomes.

A Legacy of Community and Connection

The event’s theme — “United for Change” — resonated deeply throughout the day. Whether from national health leaders, young advocates, or mothers sharing lived experiences, the message was consistent:

New Jersey’s progress is real, but the path forward must be community-led, locally grounded, and equity-driven.

Editorial Comment: By Adam Rizvi

As someone who attended the Summit from morning until evening, what moved me most was the genuine sense of community and purpose in the room. Maternal and infant health is not a political talking point—it is a human right, and for many families, a matter of life and death.

Watching nearly 800 people come together for the final Summit under First Lady Murphy’s leadership was a reminder that compassionate public service leaves a lasting legacy. Her work has touched thousands of lives. And as Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill prepares to lead the state, the responsibility to protect New Jersey’s mothers and babies continues.

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill Names Alex Ball as Chief of Staff and Tim Lydon as Chief Counsel

The India Observer remains committed to covering these issues with integrity, compassion, and truth — keeping our communities informed and our leaders accountable.

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Curated by Humra Kidwai