Rider receives Mayor’s Award from Lawrence Township

Lawrence Township recognized the positive relationship Rider University has with its community during a ceremony on Oct. 11.  The University received the Mayor’s Award for Economic or Community Development at the 19th annual economic development awards gala, held at BRIO Tuscan Grille in Quaker Bridge Mall in Lawrence.   “We are delighted to have been selected as a recipient of the Mayor’s Award,” said President Gregory G. Dell’Omo, Ph.D., who accepted the Mayor’s Award on Rider’s behalf. “This recognition is particularly gratifying given the longstanding, positive relationship Rider has fostered with the township for so many years. We look forward to continuing our work with the township to bring economic growth and vitalization to the area.” The Lawrence Township Growth and Redevelopment Committee presents the annual award to businesses, individuals and civic groups. This year, it was also given to a co-recipient, the Lawrenceville School. Selections are based on a criteria of how the nominee has enhanced the community, improved the quality of life or participated in local activities that benefit Lawrence and its residents.  The relationship between Rider and Lawrence has mutually benefited both partners and the surrounding community for decades. Rider Bonner Community Scholars perform community service in Lawrence, including at the Lawrence Community Center and the English School at Lawrence Road Presbyterian Church, totaling about 4,500 hours annually. 

In the spring, Lawrence earned a silver Sustainable Jersey certification after eight Rider students teamed up with the Lawrence Green Team and other local sustainability-based organizations. Prior to the students’ participation, Lawrence Township had received four bronze level certifications from the nonprofit.  This year, Rider hosted a new athletic initiative, The Mayor’s Cup, which pitted two Mercer County rivals, Lawrence High School and Notre Dame, against each other on the University’s Division I soccer field. For many years, the University has hosted the Township’s annual Independence Day Fireworks.