The Morris County Board of County Commissioners presented resolutions of honor to Debbie Leon, retiring executive director of Literacy Volunteers of Morris County, and Michelle Borden, who retired September 1 as president and CEO of NewBridge Services.
Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw and State Sen. Anthony M. Bucco led the presentations at a public meeting in Morristown, where supporters gathered to celebrate both women. Bucco also presented Joint Senate and Assembly resolutions recognizing their contributions.
“Tonight, we are recognizing the nearly 60 years of combined service of two wonderful civic leaders,” Shaw said.
Leon has led Literacy Volunteers of Morris County for nearly 30 years, overseeing a staff of five and hundreds of volunteers. A former attorney admitted to practice in New York and New Jersey, she brought nonprofit management experience to her responsibilities in programming, fundraising and financial oversight.
The organization provides free individual and small-group instruction for adults, including English as a Second Language, reading, writing, high school equivalency preparation, basic math and citizenship preparation. Its partnership with the county’s Employment and Training Services also helps residents strengthen their English skills as they pursue jobs, occupational training and career advancement.
“It’s been 30 years, and it’s been a privilege to work with this organization,” Leon said, crediting the board, volunteers and students who have made its work possible.
Borden, a licensed clinical social worker, joined NewBridge Services in 1997 after more than a decade overseeing psychiatric and substance use programs at East Orange General Hospital.
Following the September 11 attacks, she helped establish the Morris County Human Services Response Network, contributing to efforts to prepare crisis counselors for disaster response.
She became NewBridge’s CEO in April 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic increased the need for accessible support. The agency expanded telehealth counseling and online mental health resources, opened a new headquarters and campus in Pompton Plains in 2023, and joined Christian Health in 2024.
Borden received the 2025 Outstanding Leadership Award from the New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies.
Today, NewBridge provides counseling, housing and education to residents of Morris, Passaic and Sussex counties. Its Senior Assistance for Independent Living program offers free services to Morris County residents ages 60 and older.
“We did this together. Everyone,” Borden said. “No one person could ever do what we do. We have a great foundation, and there is more to come.”
