By: Richard L. Smith
Essex County officials gathered in Newark this week to recognize four outstanding young women for their leadership, academic success, and service during the county’s annual Women’s History Month celebration.
According to a press release from the Essex County Executive’s Office, Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. hosted the ceremony on March 11 at the Essex County Martin Luther King Jr. Justice Building.
The event highlighted this year’s theme, “Students of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow.”
During the ceremony, the county presented the 2026 Althea Gibson Leadership Awards to four students who have demonstrated strong leadership and dedication to their schools and communities.
Farida Salley, a senior at Essex County Donald M. Payne Sr. School of Technology, was recognized for her academic achievements and involvement in several student organizations.
She serves as president of the school’s Black Students Union and participates in the African Caribbean Dance Club and Step Team. Salley also runs track and is pursuing studies in business technology with plans to attend college and pursue a career in marketing.
Jordyn-Rose Mercado, a senior at Essex County West Caldwell School of Technology, was honored for her leadership and community service.
She serves as vice president of the National Honor Society, captain of the varsity cheer team, and participates in softball and cross country. Mercado also leads the school’s SkillsUSA chapter and has helped organize cultural celebrations recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month, Black History Month, and Women’s History Month.
Rosibel Marinez, a senior at Essex County Newark Tech, was recognized for her academic excellence and resilience. Enrolled in the school’s Health Careers and Early College programs, Marinez is on track to graduate with both her high school diploma and an associate’s degree through Essex County College.
She also serves as president of the National Honor Society and hopes to pursue a career as a pediatric surgeon.
Xiomara Rivera, a student at Essex County College, was honored for both her academic and athletic achievements.
A social science major with a 3.7 GPA, Rivera serves as captain of the college’s women’s soccer team and earned recognition on the Garden State Athletic Conference Academic Team and the All–Region 19 Academic Team. She plans to continue her education and soccer career at Caldwell University on an athletic scholarship.
The annual leadership awards are named in honor of Althea Gibson, the pioneering tennis and golf champion who became the first African American to win Wimbledon and one of the most influential athletes in American sports history.
County officials said the program celebrates the accomplishments of young women who are already demonstrating the leadership and determination that will shape the future of Essex County.