Commissioner Cannon, Director Billek recognized as steadfast public professionals

TRENTON -- Two dedicated Mercer County public servants were honored by the New Jersey Association of Counties (NJAC) during its County Government Leadership Awards presentations at the organization’s 71^st Annual Conference Oct. 12-14 in Atlantic City. Mercer County Commissioner Ann Cannon was given the NJAC Board Member Lifetime Achievement Award, and Human Services Director Marygrace Billek received the NJAC County Service Award, announced Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes.  

Ms. Cannon, pictured above, of East Windsor, was elected to the Mercer County Board of Chosen Freeholders (now Commissioners) in 1995 and has served continuously since. Prior to that, she served on the East Windsor town council from 1990-1994, and throughout her career has been active in a variety of community and civic organizations.

Ms. Billek, pictured right, of West Windsor, joined Mercer County in 2004 and was appointed to the role of Director of Human Services in 2006. She chairs and participates in an array of more than 30 boards and commissions and plays a key role in Mercer County’s coronavirus pandemic response.

“Ann Cannon and Marygrace Billek have built careers on championing efforts to help our most vulnerable citizens,” Mr. Hughes said. “Through leadership, advocacy, legislation and policy change, both Ann and Marygrace have worked tirelessly on behalf of the citizens of Mercer County and are wholeheartedly deserving of these recognitions, and I thank our partners at NJAC for their acknowledgment.”

NJAC Executive Director John G. Donnadio added, “It has been an honor and a privilege to work with Ann Cannon and Marygrace Billek over the years.  NJAC and Mercer County are fortunate to have two incredible leaders that have dedicated their professional lives to serving the public. These awards are long overdue and well deserved.”