Commissioners Gallery Opens Exhibit Featuring Union County Employee Artists

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that a selection of prize-winning art work by Union County and UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ employees, their family members, and volunteers is on display through January 16 in the Commissioners Gallery, located on the 6^th floor of the Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth. The gallery is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays.

The art display presents a select sampling of 16 pieces from among the 74 pieces judged at the recent 19th annual "National Arts Program Exhibit and Contest for Union County Employees and Their Families." The exhibit and contest are a result of a partnership with the National Arts Program Foundation, which provides prize money and valuable support to display the work of talented artists of all ages.

"We are honored to conclude the year with an exhibit that celebrates our employees-the dedicated public servants who strengthen this community every day," said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. "Congratulations to all of this year's winners. It is our pleasure to highlight the remarkable talent and artistry within our Union County family. This showcase reflects not only exceptional skill, but also the creativity and heart that each of you brings to our community."

Listed by category are all the award-winning employee artists, retirees, volunteers, and their family members, and the awards they won at the original exhibit and contest. The closing reception was held at UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ's Scotch Plains Campus on Friday, November 21, 2025:

Overall

Best in Show - Veronica Dunscombe, Professional

Teen Art Education Award - Chloe Thompson, Teen

Professional

1^st Place - Jacqueline Abend

2^nd Place - Kat Block

3^rd Place - Dario Scholis

Intermediate

1^st Place - Clara Owens

2^nd Place - Kaylee Krill

3^rd Place - Alessandra Alma

Amateur

1^st Place - Ivan Strom

2^nd Place - Victoria Martins

3^rd Place - Beverly Guest

Teen - Ages 13-18

1^st Place - Elysse Brathwaite

2^nd Place - Antoinette Evans

Youth - Ages 12 & Under

1^st Place - Elena Boyar

2^nd Place - Alessia Alma

3^rd Place - Chelsea Velazquez

"I would like to thank our Union County employees, retirees, and their families for participating in this annual event. Their pieces always bring so much life and color to our gallery," said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Board, Bette Jane Kowalski. "I encourage residents to take the time to visit and enjoy the display for themselves."

Additional support for this event was provided by a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Exhibits at the Commissioners Gallery are coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs.

For more information about this exhibit and other programs and services related to the arts and Union County history, contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth NJ 07202. Telephone: (908) 558-2550. NJ Relay users dial 711. Or send E-mail to: [email protected]