The New Jersey Architects Political Action Committee (NJ APAC) was represented at Governor Mikie Sherrill’s two January 20, 2026 inauguration events. NJ APAC trustees Ron Weston, AIA, and Kurt Kalafsky, AIA, attended the swearing in of New Jersey’s 57th governor at a packed ceremony Tuesday morning at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark. A full stage of New Jersey government and political leaders, including all living New Jersey governors from both political parties, were present to witness the swearing in. Video of Governor Sherrill’s inaugural speech is linked HERE.
Hours later, NJ APAC trustees Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA; David DelVecchio, AIA; Brian Penschow, AIA; and Ron Weston, AIA, attended Governor Sherrill’s evening “Mission to Deliver Inaugural Ball” held in East Rutherford’s American Dream Mall Rink event space. The formal evening was a festive celebration attended by a wide range of political supporters, lobbyists, event sponsors, and enthusiastic residents.
The evening included a buffet of classic New Jersey foods, live music, dancing and plenty of networking. Madame Governor noted how appropriate for the New Jersey Inauguration to be held in a shopping mall!!
Ron Weston worked the VAST room, meeting up with Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, New Jersey Lt. Governor Dr. Dale Caldwell, and the Most Important Person In The Room, Governor Mikie Sherrill!
As most galas do, the evening closed with a Hip Hop set featuring 90’s Grammy Winning New Jersey artist, Naughty By Nature!
For opportunities to get involved with the New Jersey Architects Political Action Committee, contact Secretary Seth Leeb, AIA, at seth@leeb-architecture.com