Middle Earth NJ Staff Honored for Professional Excellence in Youth Services

Middle Earth NJ is celebrating a proud moment as two of its staff members, Ike Onyejiaka and Cory Matthew, were recently recognized by the Somerset County Youth Services Commission with 

The Paul & Jean Krauss Award for Professional Excellence.

The award honors individuals who demonstrate dedicated and outstanding professional service to the youth of Somerset County. Ike and Cory were selected in recognition of their continued commitment to supporting young people through their work at Middle Earth NJ, where they play key roles in advancing youth development, advocacy, and community-based services.

The award presentation brought together recipients from across the county and local leadership. One photo from the event shows all award recipients alongside the Director of the Somerset County Board of Commissioners, Shanel Robinson, who was present to recognize their contributions. Additional photos highlight Ike with his wife, Crista, and Cory with his girlfriend, Natasha, underscoring the personal support behind their professional accomplishments. Another image features Middle Earth leadership and staff, including Associate Executive Director Maggie Navatto, award recipients Ike Onyejiaka and Cory Matthew, and Executive Director Maria Strada.

Middle Earth NJ leadership expressed pride in the recognition, noting that the award reflects both individual excellence and the organization’s broader mission to serve youth and families with care, professionalism, and dedication.

The honors serve as a reminder of the critical role local organizations and committed professionals play in strengthening Somerset County’s youth services and supporting the next generation.

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