The 7th Annual Evening of Hope

Honoring

KENNETH J. MALAGIERE & JONATHAN Z. PETRO
TRANSFORMATIONAL COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Kenneth J. Malagiere and Jonathan Z. Petro have built their lives around a shared commitment to leadership, service and strengthening the Ocean County community they proudly call home. Ken serves as Executive Director of the Ocean County College Foundation, where he champions scholarships, educational programs and opportunities that help students succeed while enriching the greater community. His leadership extends beyond the College through numerous civic and nonprofit organizations, and since 2017, he has curated the Blauvelt Speaker Series, bringing distinguished voices in education, culture, history and the arts to Ocean County. Ken is also an entrepreneur and creative professional, having founded the James Joseph Group, Inc. and owner of Narcissus Florals, whose work has been featured in nationally recognized publications and at prominent events, including Presidential visits to the Garden State.

Jonathan is Partner of Carluccio, Leone, Dimon, Doyle, Gutman & Petro, where he practices family law and real estate law. A Toms River native, Jonathan earned his law degree from Rutgers University School of Law and has dedicated his career to serving individuals and families throughout New Jersey. His commitment to service extends well beyond his legal practice. Jonathan has held leadership roles with the Ocean County Bar Association, Ocean County YMCA, Ocean County Vocational Technical School Foundation, Ocean County Library Foundation.

Together, Ken and Jonathan have made community involvement an important part of their lives. Their shared service has previously been recognized with the Red Triangle Award in 2017 and the Good Turn Award in 2025. Whether supporting education, strengthening local organizations or giving back to the community, they lead with generosity, purpose and a genuine desire to make a difference. Partners in both life and service, Ken and Jonathan embody the power of using their individual talents and shared values to create a lasting impact. HOPE Sheds Light is proud to honor them together in recognition of their extraordinary commitment to the community and to helping others.

Hope Sheds Light Founders

• Ron Rosetto
• Stephen Willis
• Arvo Prima

Gala Auction Committee Members

• Pamela Capaci
• Ann Marie Baker
• Beverly Prima
• Arvo Prima
• Ron Rosetto
• Dawn Marzarella
• Kristin Marzarella Amato
• Nancy Webb
• Christopher J. Dasti
• Ken Malagiere
• Cathy Shea