The Edge for December 2025
It can be hard to find the time to slow down and give thanks. That’s why, during this holiday season, we asked New Jersey Chamber of Commerce members to take a moment and send us a written tribute to their mentors – the people that have helped them succeed in their careers and in life. It is evident in these tributes how powerful a mentor can be, and how a few well-placed words motivate, inspire and even propel a career. We invite you to read them below:
Kerry Duda Wilson — Theresa Hinton
I Strive to Be Like Theresa: Attentive, Interested and Encouraging to Others
Theresa Hinton deeply influenced my leadership journey within the New Jersey Society of CPAs (NJCPA). Over ten years ago, she was the first welcoming face I encountered at an NJCPA chapter event. As liaison of the ‘Emerging Leaders Council,’ Theresa reached out personally, asking about my interests, listening attentively, and connecting me with opportunities to get involved as a young CPA. Each year, we met to discuss leadership roles, and she consistently encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and volunteer in various roles within the NJCPA. Her guidance and mentorship shaped my pathway to being a current NJCPA board member. Sadly, we lost Theresa to cancer last month, and we are devastated. Today, I strive to be like Theresa, mentoring young CPAs with the same openness, encouragement, and commitment that she demonstrated toward me. Her impact on our community and on so many of us personally will never be forgotten.
– Kerry Duda Wilson, CPA, Manager at WilkinGuttenplan
Ted Zangari — Clive Cummis
Clive Cummis said ‘Work Within the Law or Work on Changing the Law’
Clive Cummis, the late founder of Sills Cummis, the law firm where I’ve spent my entire career of 36 years, had a profound impact on how I practice law. When I was attending college and law school in DC, I would see references in The Washington Post to lawyers who were always described as “counselors” and “confidantes” to presidents, congressional leaders and c-suite executives. It was clear to me that they earned such exceptional references because they knew, better than most attorneys, how to give advice at the intersection of law, government and finance – strategic advice beyond the legal answer. As graduation neared and I began my search for a law firm back home in New Jersey, I asked around for the names of local attorneys who fit that same description. One name kept surfacing: Clive Cummis. He did not disappoint me – or his clients. Among many unique and valuable lessons Clive taught me is that if I could not get the desired result for a client by working within the law, I should set about changing the law or regulation – so I became a registered state lobbyist to enhance my law practice.
– Ted Zangari, Chair, Real Estate Law Department, Sills Cummis & Gross, PC
Denise Finney — Diane Wasser
My Mentor Exhibits a Commitment to Work and a Commitment to Family
My mentor has been a guiding force in both my personal and professional life. Diane Wasser, the Partner-in-Charge of EinserAmper’s New Jersey office, recognized my potential early on and encouraged my passion. Her advice has always been thoughtful, her guidance unwavering, and her integrity unmatched – she does what she says and when she says she will. One lesson that left a lasting impression was her commitment to family. I vividly recall her saying, “I’ll be home in five minutes. I need to greet my family.” That simple statement taught me the importance of being fully present. Today, I honor that example by giving my family the same respect, ensuring that every welcome and goodbye reflects that they matter most.
– Denise Finney, Partner-in-Charge, Pension Services Group, EisnerAmper LLP
Melissa Toll — Paul DiMaio
My Mentor Encourages Me to Embrace Challenges and Value Diverse Viewpoints
Throughout my career, I have found it essential to seek mentorship – through formal programs or relationships, both within and outside the organization. At Delta Dental, I have been fortunate to benefit from several unofficial mentors on our executive leadership team who have offered guidance and perspective at pivotal moments. I also appreciate the support of my official mentor, Delta Dental President and CEO Paul DiMaio, who has encouraged me to embrace challenges, value diverse viewpoints, and strengthen my ability to empower and influence others. One of the most impactful takeaways from our conversations has been his reminder to remain grounded and not take myself too seriously. This insight has helped me approach leadership with authenticity, humility, and a balanced mindset.
– Melissa Toll, Vice President, Human Resources, Delta Dental of New Jersey
Natalie Lihacova — Nick Malefyt
My Mentor Collaborates and Gives Me Space to Grow
I hadn’t had a mentor in a long time until I met Nick Malefyt of Master Search Solutions. Nick has guided me through every key aspect of recruiting: sourcing candidates, recognizing true potential, identifying red flags, and communicating in ways that build strong, lasting relationships. His advice carries the weight of more than 25 years of experience, yet he delivers it with sincerity and respect. Nick’s mentorship works because he never imposes – he collaborates, encourages, and gives me space to grow.
– Natalie Lihacova, Talent Discovery and Placement Enthusiast, Master Search Solutions
