FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 11, 2024
Contacts: Lisa Batitto, news@drugfreenj.org
 

Paul S. Rotella, Esq., Recognized with Lifetime Achievement Award at PDFNJ's 30th Angel of Hope Gala
 

MILLBURN, NJ — In an acknowledgment of his tireless dedication and impactful leadership, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) will honor Paul S. Rotella, Esq., of Paramus and Point Pleasant, with the esteemed J.P. Miele Lifetime Achievement Award at its 30th Angel of Hope Gala on May 15, 2024, at the Liberty House in Jersey City. This tribute recognizes Rotella's pivotal role in combating substance misuse during his 14-year tenure as President and CEO of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association (NJBA).

Rotella's visionary leadership at the NJBA and his staunch support for PDFNJ initiatives like the New Jersey Shout Down Drugs music competition have significantly bolstered the fight against drug abuse in New Jersey. His commitment has enabled the voices of young New Jerseyans to resonate in the battle against drugs, turning the Shout Down Drugs competition into a beacon of creativity and hope. He currently serves on PDFNJ’s Executive and Steering Committees.

"One of my first official acts as the chief executive officer of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association was to aid and assist the Partnership for a Drug-free New Jersey and its ongoing mission,” Rotella said, “Now, more than ever, the good work of the Partnership is essential to educate the public in combating the insidious scourge drug abuse is on our society and community. This work remains one of our most worthwhile endeavors and I’m so very proud of their initiatives. The Partnership’s vital objective is strengthened through relationships with all community organizations across the Garden State, like the NJBA, so as to continue to be successful. It's a privilege to be associated with the partnership and its leadership!"

Under Rotella's guidance, NJBA's collaboration with PDFNJ epitomizes the power of media as a force for public good. This partnership has been instrumental in disseminating critical health messages across the state, marking a significant stride in PDFNJ's mission to foster a drug-free lifestyle.

"Paul's work in substance abuse prevention extends beyond broadcast media; it touches lives and molds futures," Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ, said. “His legacy is one of commitment and inspiration, which we are honored to recognize at our Angel of Hope Gala."

The Angel of Hope Gala, overseen by trustees Elaine and Steve Pozycki, is a celebration of collective community efforts in the fight against substance misuse and an opportunity to spotlight those who have been instrumental in this endeavor. More information about the event and sponsorship opportunities can be found at www.drugfreenj.org/gala. 

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Best known for its statewide substance use prevention advertising campaign, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is a private not-for-profit coalition of professionals from the communications, corporate and government communities whose collective mission is to reduce demand for illicit drugs in New Jersey through media communication. To date, more than $200 million in broadcast time and print space has been donated to the Partnership’s New Jersey campaign, making it the largest public service advertising campaign in New Jersey’s history. Since its inception, the Partnership has garnered 226 advertising and public relations awards from national, regional and statewide media organizations.