A NJ Legend & A Rising Star

Thank you again Marine and retired NJSP Capt. James Challender and Christine De Jong, one of our 2025 Lion Woodward Scholarship recipients for your visit and amazing presentation yesterday at our weekly Rotary Club of Trenton luncheon meeting!

Captain James “Jim” Challender has dedicated his life to public service, law enforcement, faith, and community involvement. Proudly serving in the United States Marine Corps, he went on to serve with the New Jersey State Police, ultimately attaining the rank of Captain.

Throughout his distinguished career, Challender held several prominent leadership positions, including Chief of Police for the NY and NJ waterfront and Airport Commission, Chief of Investigations for the New Jersey Department of Education, and Chief of Investigations for the Newark Public Schools.

His investigative work led to the prosecution and conviction of numerous corrupt public officials, including politicians, mayors, attorneys, education administrators, and three sitting judges. Challender was heavily involved in the investigation surrounding the murder of Werner Foerster, who was brutally killed in 1973 by fugitive and domestic terrorist Joanne Chesimard. He also participated in matters related to the aftermath of the Bay of Pigs Invasion and provided executive protection services for John F. Kennedy and his family at Jackie’s family residence in Newport, RI.

Beyond law enforcement, Challender has remained deeply committed to serving others. He has served on the boards of the Sunshine Foundation and Sister Georgine’s Mission of Mercy. A devoted man of faith, he has been a deacon at Our Lady of Sorrows Churchfor more than 20 years.

Known for his compassion and commitment to the community, Challender is also a regular supporter of the Compassion Café, a program dedicated to employing, supporting, and empowering adults with special needs. His career reflects a lifetime of leadership, integrity, and service to both the public and the community.

Perhaps most importantly, Jim is a devoted family man. He is often accompanied by his loving wife of more than 60 years, as well as his children and grandchildren, one of whom joined us at yesterday’s meeting.

Jim, you are welcome back anytime! Thank you again for sharing your remarkable story and for everything you have done in service to our country, our state, and our communities. It was truly an honor to have you with us!

Christine De Jong is one of two recipients of the 2025 Lion Woodward Scholarship. A graduate of West Windsor-Plainsboro High School North, she is currently a rising sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh, where she is pursuing a Pre-Med track.

Christine is also a member of the U.S. Navy ROTC and plans to attend medical school with the support of the U.S. Navy following her undergraduate studies. Demonstrating an ongoing commitment to service, she volunteers at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in the Emergency Department and participates in the No One Dies Alone (NODA) program in the ICU, providing comfort and companionship to patients during their final moments.

Continuing her dedication to helping others, Christine remains involved with service dogs through the STEP@Pitt Puppy Raising Program, where she serves as a puppy sitter. Her academic achievements are equally impressive, as she maintains an excellent GPA while balancing a demanding schedule of studies, service, and leadership.

Christine exemplifies the values of scholarship, service, and patriotism, and we are proud to recognize her accomplishments!