Princeton, New Jersey - Following the announcement earlier this year that longtime Lead New Jersey (LNJ) President, Mark Murphy will be retiring at the end of 2025, LNJ announced today that Michele Tuck-Ponder, Esq. has been named Interim President as the organization carries out a thorough search process. Murphy, who has led the organization since 2011, will step down on December 31, making way for a new chapter in the organization and capping a tenure that has shaped over 500 leaders across the state.

Michele brings deep familiarity with Lead New Jersey, including being an alum in the Class of 1995, and a strong record of leadership, which brings great confidence that she will provide stability and continuity during this important period. Michele will work alongside Vice President, Jennifer M. Bredehoft in welcoming the incoming cohort and planning an outstanding 2026 fellowship experience during this transition year.

“On behalf of the board of trustees, I want to thank Mark for his years of service,” said Jay Redd, Esq., Board Chair of Lead New Jersey. “He challenged us all to bring our full selves to the work, to listen with humility, and to lead with purpose. Mark played a pivotal role in building this organization to what it is today and we wish him all the best in his retirement. We are equally appreciative of Michele for stepping into the Interim President role and for her willingness to help guide Lead New Jersey through this transition.”

During his tenure, Mark has strengthened LNJ’s programs, expanded its reach, and deepened its impact across the state. His commitment to developing informed, connected, and effective leaders has left a lasting mark on the organization and the many fellows and alumni who have benefitted from the Lead NJ experience.

The LNJ Board is fully committed to identifying the right candidate to serve as Lead New Jersey’s next President. They will be undertaking an extensive and thorough search process to ensure we find a leader who reflects our values, advances our mission, and builds on the strong foundation that Mark has helped to create. Individuals who want to receive updates as the search moves forward can email Jay Redd at Jay@StonoPA.com

Lead New Jersey offers a twelve-month seminar to a select group of fellows each year, providing a crash course on the issues New Jersey is facing and the people working around the state to address them, empowering young professionals to get involved in their communities and connecting them with the far reaching LNJ network.

Alumni of the program have gone on to become governors, commissioners, congresspeople, non-profit presidents, C-suite executives and other well-placed leaders across the state. To learn more about the Lead New Jersey experience, visit www.leadnj.org.