The Elizabeth Welcome Station, which opened 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, for the exemplary work demonstrated by revitalizing this historic structure and transforming it into a welcoming entry point for residents and visitors alike.
Ms. Collins explained, "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 of Elizabeth. He shared: "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, 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, empower individuals and build local pride. In a world moving faster into the future, the panel emphasized the need to effectively remedy the disregard for cultural past, reflecting on the power of the arts to safeguard history and engage individuals to pass it forward.
Panelist Union County Commissioner and Elizabeth Recreation Director Stan Neron brought his experience in public service and cultural enrichment to the discussion. As a board member of the 313+ Ancestors Speak Project, he 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 to create dynamic programs that educate the public about Union County's history. Panelist Katherine Craig, Caretaker of the Boxwood Hall State Historic Site in Elizabeth, added perspective on keeping humanity at the center of storytelling and her success in leading public engagement across all age groups.
Joining the local panelists was nationally acclaimed architectural artist Leisa Collins, known for her efforts to document and advocate for historic architecture. She shared how the use of art can preserve the character of historic places and elevate the stories of the people who lived them. As the event drew to a close, Rev. Massimo Parrino, President of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, presented an Award of Cultural Leadership to Jennifer Costa and the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce for their collaboration in planning the event and their dedication to cultural stewardship.
Guests then entered the Elizabeth Welcome Station for a closer look at the newly unveiled Historic Homes & Buildings of Elizabeth exhibit, showcasing the city's historic structures and landmarks. The Elizabeth Welcome Station is open to visitors through the GoElizabethNJ250 initiative. Its transformation reflects a shift from transportation hub to cultural gateway, linking the past with the present. For more information visit the Elizabeth Welcome Center page. For more information about the L. Ron Hubbard historic site in Elizabeth, visit the L. Ron Hubbard landmark site.
