The Elizabeth Welcome Station, which opened last month as a cultural gateway celebrating Elizabeth's diverse heritage, has already earned national recognition. On Thursday afternoon, the Leisa Collins Historic Preservation Award was presented to the City of Elizabeth at the Elizabeth History, Heritage & the Arts event. The award honors the exemplary work demonstrated by revitalizing the historic structure and transforming it into a welcoming entry point for residents and visitors.
Ms. Leisa Collins, the nationally recognized architectural artist for whom the award is named, stated: 'A building with history has a story and once it is destroyed it is lost forever. With this award I recognize the City of Elizabeth for setting a stellar example of historical stewardship by preserving and transforming this landmark to tell the story of not only the built things surrounding us, but more importantly, the people who made them so.'
Honorable Mayor J. Christian Bollwage accepted the award on behalf of the city. He shared: 'Elizabeth has always been a city that values its history while continuing to build for the future. This event celebrates the people, places and stories that have shaped our community and reminds us that preserving our heritage strengthens our identity for generations to come. We are honored to receive this recognition and to welcome residents and visitors to experience the new Historic Buildings of Elizabeth exhibit.'
The award presentation was followed by a panel discussion, 'Painting the Past Forward: How Art and Historic Stewardship Keep Community Stories Alive.' Moderated by the caretaker of the L. Ron Hubbard Elizabeth, NJ Historic Home, the panel brought together community leaders who shared insights on how art, cultural storytelling, and historic preservation work together to illuminate untold stories, strengthen community identity, empower individuals, and build local pride. In a world moving faster into the future, where disregard for cultural past has become an urgent issue, the panel emphasized the need to remedy this trend to preserve, inspire, and encourage the community.
Panelist Union County Commissioner and Elizabeth Recreation Director Stan Neron brought his experience in public service and cultural enrichment, highlighting the power of art and history to inspire and empower. Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs History Programs Coordinator Mr. John Prescott shared insights from his projects with community groups to educate the public about Union County's history. Panelist Ms. Katherine Craig, caretaker of the Boxwood Hall State Historic Site in Elizabeth, added perspective on designing historical programs that engage all age groups. Nationally acclaimed architectural artist Ms. Leisa Collins shared her passion for the power of art to preserve and enrich communities and culture.
As the event drew to a close, Rev. Massimo Parrino, President of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, presented an Award of Cultural Leadership to Ms. Jennifer Costa and the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce for their collaboration and dedication to cultural stewardship. Rev. Parrino said the award honors those who exemplify the philosophy L. Ron Hubbard followed: 'to share what wisdom he has, and to help others help themselves.'
Guests then explored the Elizabeth Welcome Station's newly unveiled Historic Homes & Buildings of Elizabeth exhibit, showcasing the city's historic structures and landmarks. The station is open to visitors as part of the GoElizabethNJ250 initiative. For more information, visit https://www.goelizabethnj.com/things-to-do/attractions/historic-sites/elizabeth-station-welcome-center/. For more about the L. Ron Hubbard historic site, visit https://www.lronhubbard.org/landmark-sites/aberdeen-road.html.
