
The Camden County Board of Commissioners has announced the recipients of the 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Medal.
This prestigious award recognizes residents who have made significant contributions to their communities and embody Dr. King’s principles of service, compassion, and leadership.
The awards were presented on January 15, 2025, during a ceremony held at the Collingswood Ballroom.
Among the honorees was Shakir Ali of Pennsauken, a dedicated music educator who mentors at-risk middle school students. Ali also volunteers with Camp Bright Feathers, an organization supporting children affected by HIV/AIDS and violence.
Colleen Bianco Bezich, the mayor of Haddonfield, was recognized for her commitment to diversity and inclusion. Through events such as LGBTQ+ pride celebrations, Juneteenth observances, and Diwali festivals, Bezich has worked to bring the community together. Additionally, she mentors refugee children and supports organizations like LUCY Outreach and Cathedral Kitchen.
Sangeeta Doshi of Cherry Hill was honored for her long-standing service to the community. Active for over two decades, Doshi works with organizations such as the Domestic Violence Response Team, Moms Demand Action, and the Indian Cultural Center.
From Camden, Brian Gregg was celebrated for his role as a basketball coach and mentor. Gregg has established open gym nights to provide safe spaces for youth and has spearheaded educational access initiatives in partnership with local nonprofits.
Davida Jacobe-Hart, a resident of Sicklerville, was recognized for her volunteer work with school programs like the Home and School Association and Kidzercise’s Afterschool Program. Her leadership extends to charitable projects and serving on the Winslow Township County Committee.
Marilyn Segars Jamal of Clementon, an educator and former principal of Camden High School, was honored for her mentorship of students and leaders. Jamal currently serves as the regional director of South Jersey Teenshop Inc., an organization that prepares girls for college and careers.
Lisa Lewis of Voorhees was recognized for her work as a lawyer dedicated to justice and community empowerment. She has developed programs teaching middle school students about the legal system and serves on the Volunteer Up Legal Clinic Advisory Board.
In Merchantville, James J. Madden was celebrated for 45 years of service as a volunteer and board member at Larc School, where he has enriched the lives of children and adults with profound disabilities through fundraising and support.
Portia Simmons of Camden, a U.S. Army veteran, was honored for her advocacy for environmental justice and housing access. She is the Center for Environmental Transformation chairperson and an active member of the local veteran community.
Andrew Passalacqua, a high school student from Cherry Hill, was recognized for founding “Crayons for Courts,” a project that raises funds to provide coloring materials for children in courtrooms. His first donation was delivered to the Camden County Courthouse.
Joyce Pierce of Lawnside was celebrated for her dedication to education and public service. A former councilwoman and acting mayor of Lawnside, Pierce has worked tirelessly to ensure high-quality education for students in Haddonfield.
Finally, Michael and Kathleen VanStine of Gloucester Township were honored for their leadership at the SpectraCare Foundation and the Carlton R. Rouh Veterans Center, where they have created a sanctuary for veterans’ healing and growth.
The 2025 MLK Freedom Medal recipients represent the best of Camden County, showcasing selflessness and dedication to the betterment of their communities.
For more information on the awardees and their contributions, visit the Camden County official website.