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Stephen N. Adubato Sr., the founder of The North Ward Center in Newark, was honored by the New Jersey Ballet for his contributions toward improving the quality of life for residents in the city.
Adubato was one of three honorees who were recognized at the New Jersey Ballet’s 52 Annual Gala held Saturday, March 12 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark. Also recognized were Assemblywoman Nancy F. Munoz and James R. Gillen, the former general counsel of Prudential and chairman of the Prudential Foundation.
Adubato, who also founded the Robert Treat Academy Charter School in Newark, said his wife, Fran, first introduced him to the ballet many years ago. He’s been a devoted fan ever since.
“Ballet, music and art, bring together all of humanity,” Adubato said. “Without the ballet, life would truly be less meaningful.”
Adubato has been a longtime supporter of the New Jersey Ballet, which has performed at The North Ward Center and the Robert Treat Academy.
The award was presented by Donald E. Robinson, the chairman of the New Jersey Ballet’s Board of Directors, who praised his good friend, “Big Steve,” calling him “Newark’s Exemplary North Ward Champion.”
NJ Ballet Director Carolyn Clark said she recalls when the ballet performed under the tent at The North Ward Center when both organizations were still in their infancy.
“Our organizations have come a long way since then. I’m so glad we have remained close and warmly supportive of each other,” Clark said.
The gala, hosted by CBS 2 News Anchor Kristine Johnson and Meteorologist John Elliott, included the world premiere of Masquerade by Bettijane Sills.
Founded in 1952, the New Jersey Ballet brings professional performances to every corner of the state, including The Community Theater in Morristown, the Union County PAC in Rahway and BergenPAC in Englewood, Kean University in Union, Raritan Valley Community College, Sussex County Community College and as far south as Cape May Court House.
Adrianne Davis, the co-founder of The North Ward Center, said the North Ward community is richer because of the relationship between Adubato and the New Jersey Ballet.
“Bringing the ballet to our community is another way The North Ward Center enhances the quality of life for all our residents,” Davis said. “Steve should be commended for establishing and cultivating this long-lasting relationship with such a prestigious arts institution.”
Adubato received a Doctor of Humane Letters from Kean University in May 2010. In 1981, he received the Official Knight of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Italy and was honored by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and the National Organization of African-American Administrators.
