Trenton – Senate President Steve Sweeney presented former Governor Jim Florio with the Distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award from the Stockton Hughes Center for Public Policy in recognition of his distinguished career in public service and enduring contributions to New Jersey.

As the State’s 49th governor, Florio had to face serious policy concerns, including the funding of the state’s public-school system, clean water enforcement, and enacting the nation’s strictest ban on assault weapons. During his time in Congress, Florio enacted the Superfund Law, a landmark environmental program that works to clean up hazardous waste sites.

“Jim Florio is one of New Jersey’s most distinguished public figures whose stature has continued to grow over the years,” said Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “Governor Florio’s commitment to public service did not end when he left office and that is one of the many reasons he deserves this Lifetime Achievement award.

“It’s not an action but a spirit that defines him. He was born a fighter, and I am glad he chose to make the people of New Jersey his fight.”

In addition to Governor Florio, former Governor Christie Whitman also received the Distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award at the night’s event.  Whitman is credited with preserving a record amount of New Jersey land as permanent green space. She is also acknowledged for having employed the most inclusive beach monitoring structure in the nation.

“It’s an honor for Stockton to host all of these distinguished state leaders in one room, at one time,” said Stockton University President Harvey Kesselman. “Governor Florio, Governor Whitman and the Senate President, represent the past and present shapers of New Jersey public policy and all are role models for the values of civic involvement and civil discourse, a hallmark of the Hughes Center’s mission.”

Past Lifetime Achievement Award recipients include late former New Jersey Governor Brendan Byrne, former Governor Thomas Kean, and Ambassador William J. Hughes