MORRIS COUNTY — The Arc of Morris named Assemblywoman Aura Dunn Legislator of the Year at Wednesday’s annual awards gala.
Dunn, cofounder and co-chair of the bipartisan New Jersey Legislative Disability Caucus, has made it her mission to address challenges facing those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Since becoming Assemblywoman, one of her proudest achievements was signing her bill (S761/A2369) that requires an autism or communication disorder to be notated on driver’s licenses and state-issued ID cards. In addition, she has worked to address New Jersey’s special education teacher shortage (A3244) and create a centralized information hub of state resources for those with disabilities (A3779).
“There has been much done, and there remains so much more to do, on behalf of those with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families in New Jersey, to ensure they are afforded not only the resources, but the dignity and opportunities to thrive and succeed in the broader community,” Dunn (R-Morris) said. “Working with The Arc to further these most noble causes has been my honor.”
Beyond her legislative work, Dunn participates every March in Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, established by proclamation in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan. The Arc of New Jersey hosts numerous community awareness campaigns, workshops and fundraisers during this month. The Morris chapter praised Dunn’s tireless advocacy for policies that promote inclusivity and independence for its clients each March and all year round.
“This is a mission I hold close, not just as a lawmaker, but as someone who has stood with loved ones navigating this system, an experience that deepens my resolve every single day,” Dunn said. “I have seen the cracks in the system—the long waitlists, the underfunded programs, the exhausting fight for basic support—and I refuse to give up.”
According to the state Division of Developmental Disabilities, in 2024, 1,622 people ranging in age from 10 to 99 received services in Morris County.
For over 70 years, the county chapter has advocated for people with intellectual or development disabilities for families in Morris County.
