The Elizabeth Welcome Station, which opened last month as a cultural gateway celebrating the city's diverse heritage, has been awarded the Leisa Collins Historic Preservation Award. The award, named for the nationally recognized architectural artist Leisa Collins, was presented to the City of Elizabeth on Thursday at the Elizabeth History, Heritage & the Arts event. The recognition honors the exemplary work done to revitalize this historic structure and transform it into a welcoming entry point for residents and visitors.
Ms. Collins explained, "A building with history has a story and once it is destroyed it is lost forever. With this award I recognize the City of Elizabeth for setting a stellar example of historical stewardship by preserving and transforming this landmark to tell the story of not only the built things surrounding us, but more importantly, the people who made them so."
Honorable Mayor J. Christian Bollwage accepted the award on behalf of the City of Elizabeth. He shared: "Elizabeth has always been a city that values its history while continuing to build for the future. This event celebrates the people, places and stories that have shaped our community and reminds us that preserving our heritage strengthens our identity for generations to come. We are honored to receive this recognition and to welcome residents and visitors to experience the new Historic Buildings of Elizabeth exhibit."
The award presentation was followed by a panel discussion, "Painting the Past Forward: How Art and Historic Stewardship Keep Community Stories Alive." Moderated by the caretaker of the L. Ron Hubbard Elizabeth, NJ Historic Home, the panel brought together community leaders who shared insights on how art, cultural storytelling, and historic preservation work together to illuminate untold stories, strengthen community identity, empower individuals, and build local pride. In a world moving faster into the future, where disregard for cultural past has become urgent, the panel emphasized the need to effectively remedy this trend to preserve, inspire, and encourage community involvement.
Panelist Stan Neron, Union County Commissioner and Elizabeth Recreation Director, brought his experience in public service, cultural enrichment, and community involvement to the discussion. As a board member of the 313+ Ancestors Speak Project, he highlighted the power of art and history to inspire, empower, and enrich culture. Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs History Programs Coordinator John Prescott also served on the panel, sharing insights from his projects with community groups to create dynamic programs that educate the public about Union County's history. He shared his passion for history and the importance of taking personal initiative to get involved.
Focusing on keeping humanity at the center of storytelling, panelist Katherine Craig, Caretaker of the Boxwood Hall State Historic Site in Elizabeth, added perspective from her experience designing historical programs and leading public engagement across age groups. Joining the local panelists was Leisa Collins, who shared her passion for the power of art to preserve and enrich communities. As the event drew to a close, Rev. Massimo Parrino, President of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, presented an Award of Cultural Leadership to Jennifer Costa and the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce for their collaboration and dedication to cultural stewardship.
Guests then entered the Elizabeth Welcome Station to view the newly unveiled Historic Homes & Buildings of Elizabeth exhibit, which showcases the city's historic structures and landmarks, offering a deeper understanding of Elizabeth's rich history as the "City of Firsts." The Welcome Station is open to visitors through the GoElizabethNJ250 initiative, reflecting a shift from transportation hub to cultural gateway. For more information, visit https://www.goelizabethnj.com/things-to-do/attractions/historic-sites/elizabeth-station-welcome-center/. For more about the L. Ron Hubbard historic site, visit https://www.lronhubbard.org/landmark-sites/aberdeen-road.html.
