Award winning journalists Suzanne Marino and Laura Stetser at the Atlantic County Women's Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Thursday, June 22, 2023.
By NANETTE LoBIONDO GALLOWAY
LINWOOD Among the inductees of this year's class of the Atlantic County Women's Hall of Fame is former Downbeach area journalist Suzanne Marino of Linwood.
The organization held its annual induction ceremony June 22 at Linwood Country Club. Honorees also included Natalie L. Devonish and Margaret "Peggy" Mallen-Walczak who were inducted for their volunteerism, Donna Michael-Ziereis in the law category, Robin M. Stoloff in the health category and Nicole R. Williams in the education category.
"These women have made significant contributions in their professional fields as well as outstanding contributions to our Atlantic County community," ACWHF President Mary Amanda Delcher said.
Marino covered Margate and Longport for The Current weekly newspaper published by Catamaran Media and is currently a freelance journalist covering stories for various publications in the Mainland area.
Suzanne Marino
Marino is the recipient of numerous New Jersey Press Association awards. Her award-winning hyperlocal news stories included unique insights into the April Kaufmann murder case, how to overcome opiate addiction, local businesses that survived through good times and bad, the legacy of local Holocaust survivors and celebrations for those who turned 100 years old.
Former Margate Commissioner and 2013 Inductee Brenda Taube introduced Marino, stating she always approached her writing in a professional, respectful and positive way, despite some controversial topics.
She also spearheaded the local Books to Grow On' program, distributing thousands of new and used books to area children for the last 20 years, Taube said. She has become a role model for women in journalism.
Marino accepted the honor and spoke from her heart.
There's a lot of girl power in this room, she said. That's awesome for what we can do going forward.
Marino said she has the best job in the world.
Hopefully, I told your stories in a way that that makes you all understand who you are, or understand what you do. I have enjoyed being part of so many peoples' lives and trying to do things in a way that lifts people up and makes you feel a little bit better, Marino said.
She thanked her colleagues and friends, especially her family and her husband David for his constant support over the years.
Her former colleague at the Current Laura Stetser said no one is more deserving of being in the Hall of fame.
She has given her time, talent and heart into telling stories of unsung heroes, regular community contributors and local young minds for decades, Stetser said. Through the years, her coverage has helped the community get to know each other better, understand the issues and celebrate and mourn as one. I couldn't imagine anyone more deserving of the honor.
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