Statement from the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners

regarding the passing of Deputy Director Kenneth Armwood

“It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved and highly regarded Deputy Director Kenneth Armwood. As a lifelong resident of Piscataway and a graduate of Rutgers University, Deputy Director Armwood was emblematic of Middlesex County– an advocate for all, and one that we were incredibly proud to call a fellow County Commissioner.

Deputy Director Armwood leaves a legacy of lasting contributions to Middlesex County. Beginning his career in public service at the young age of 19 years old, he was elected to the Piscataway School Board where he created a model for the State to address school violence. He later led the renovation of the most unique and inclusive park, the “All Children’s Playground”, designed for children with or without disabilities.

Since 2013, Armwood joined the Board taking the helm of economic development as the Chair of the Business Innovation, Education and Opportunity Committee. Armwood’s list of achievements were countless including establishing the Annual Business Summit bringing leaders into the County’s economic journey; overseeing the distribution of funding from Middlesex County’s Arts Trust Fund supporting one of his passions, the arts; driving the creation of online programs connecting employers, employees, residents, and job seekers, which included the launch of SkillUp; and advocating for education for all, developing programs tailored for individuals of all ages and for veterans, labor union apprenticeships, and more. Most recently, true to who he was, he championed the name change of our Board to ensure our title is reflective of the community we serve – an inclusive, diverse peoples who represent the greatness of this County.

His accomplishments were many but what we will remember most of all is Kenneth Armwood’s friendship, kindness, and the inspiration he gave us. He gave his all, always. He will be deeply missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and the community that loved him during this difficult time.”