Newark Public Schools General Counsel Brenda C. Liss Honored by Executive Women of New Jersey Salute to the Policy Makers

NEWARK, N.J. – Newark Public Schools General Counsel Brenda C. Liss has been included in the 2026 Salute to the Policy Makers by Executive Women of New Jersey (EWNJ), recognizing her leadership and service to public education.

Liss received the honor at EWNJ’s biennial Salute to the Policy Makers Gala. The event recognized 48 women from New Jersey’s public and private sectors whose leadership, achievements, and impact are helping shape the state’s businesses, institutions, and communities.

“Ms. Liss brings sound judgment, integrity, and a deep commitment to public education to her work every day,” said Superintendent León. “Her counsel helps us navigate complex challenges while keeping our focus on the students and families we serve. We are proud to see her leadership recognized among such an accomplished group of women from across New Jersey.”

“Strong public schools depend on leaders who understand both the responsibilities we carry and the opportunities we have to improve children’s lives,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “General Counsel Liss brings that understanding to her work. On behalf of the Board, I congratulate her on this well-deserved honor and thank her for her service to Newark Public Schools.”

Since 1980, EWNJ has championed women business leaders and worked to increase women’s representation in boardrooms and senior leadership positions. This year’s honorees represent fields including business, law, education, government, nonprofit organizations, and the arts.

“I am honored to receive this recognition alongside women whose work is making a difference throughout New Jersey,” said Liss. “Serving Newark Public Schools gives me the opportunity to put the law to work in support of an essential public mission: educating children. I am grateful to my colleagues for their dedication and partnership, and I hope this recognition encourages other women to pursue leadership and public service.”

The gala also supports EWNJ’s Graduate Merit Award Program, which has awarded more than $1.4 million in scholarships to nontraditional female graduate students, helping build the next generation of women leaders.