The Elizabeth Welcome Station, which opened just last month as a cultural gateway honoring the city's diverse heritage, has already received national recognition. The Leisa Collins Historic Preservation Award was presented to the City of Elizabeth on Thursday afternoon at the Elizabeth History, Heritage & the Arts event. The award, named for nationally acclaimed architectural artist Leisa Collins, recognizes the exemplary work demonstrated by revitalizing the historic structure and transforming it into a welcoming entry point for residents and visitors.
Ms. Collins stated, "A building with history has a story and once it is destroyed it is lost forever. With this award I recognize the City of Elizabeth for setting a stellar example of historical stewardship by preserving and transforming this landmark to tell the story of not only the built things surrounding us, but more importantly, the people who made them so."
Honorable Mayor J. Christian Bollwage accepted the award on behalf of the city, saying, "Elizabeth has always been a city that values its history while continuing to build for the future. This event celebrates the people, places and stories that have shaped our community and reminds us that preserving our heritage strengthens our identity for generations to come. We are honored to receive this recognition and to welcome residents and visitors to experience the new Historic Buildings of Elizabeth exhibit."
The award presentation was followed by a panel discussion titled "Painting the Past Forward: How Art and Historic Stewardship Keep Community Stories Alive." Moderated by the caretaker of the L. Ron Hubbard Elizabeth, NJ Historic Home, the panel brought together community leaders who shared insights on how art, cultural storytelling, and historic preservation work together to illuminate untold stories, strengthen community identity, and build local pride. The panel emphasized the need to effectively remedy the trend of disregard for cultural past, reflecting on the power of the arts to safeguard history and inspire future generations.
Panelists included Union County Commissioner and Elizabeth Recreation Director Stan Neron, who highlighted the power of art and history to inspire and empower culture. Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs History Programs Coordinator John Prescott shared insights from his projects with community groups. Katherine Craig, caretaker of the Boxwood Hall State Historic Site in Elizabeth, added perspective on keeping humanity at the center of storytelling. Leisa Collins shared her passion for using art to preserve the character of historic places and elevate the stories of the people who lived them.
As the event concluded, Rev. Massimo Parrino, President of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, presented an Award of Cultural Leadership to Ms. Jennifer Costa and the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce for their collaboration and dedication to cultural stewardship. Guests then explored the newly unveiled Historic Homes & Buildings of Elizabeth exhibit inside the Welcome Station.
The Elizabeth Welcome Station is open to visitors through the GoElizabethNJ250 initiative. Its transformation reflects a shift from transportation hub to cultural gateway. For more information visit: Elizabeth Station Welcome Center. For more information about the L. Ron Hubbard historic site, visit: L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Sites.
