LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ -- Brianna Armstead was recognized with the 2026 Champion of Justice Award during the Breaking Barriers Awards Reception at Kean University, honoring her advocacy for equity, immigrant families, and student rights across New Jersey.

The award, presented by the House of Hearts Network Foundation as part of its third annual Breaking Barriers Conference on April 24, recognized leaders committed to advancing justice, opportunity, and community empowerment.

Armstead, a longtime volunteer with the foundation, also received a Certificate of Congressional Recognition from Rob Menendez in acknowledgment of her leadership and service.

An advocate with the National Haitian American Elected Officials Network (NHAEON), Armstead has supported initiatives focused on immigrant families, educational equity, and student privacy rights. NHAEON is recognized as the nation’s largest network of Haitian American elected and appointed officials, representing millions of constituents nationwide.

Among the efforts highlighted during the recognition was Armstead’s support for the district’s Immigration Enforcement Access and Student Privacy Resolution, designed to safeguard students and help ensure all families feel welcomed, protected, and valued within the school community.

“I am honored to be recognized alongside so many incredible changemakers,” Armstead said. “This work is rooted in making sure every voice is valued.”

Held inside Kean University’s STEM Building, the awards reception brought together community leaders, educators, advocates, and students from across New Jersey for an evening centered on leadership, service, and breaking barriers in health, justice, and education.

District officials praised Armstead’s continued commitment to advocacy, volunteerism, and community engagement, noting that the recognition reflects Linden Public Schools’ broader mission of empowering voices, expanding opportunity, and building stronger, more inclusive communities.