Bouzard-Hui Honored as Older Americans Heritage Month Winner

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. recently recognized West Caldwell resident Eva Bouzard-Hui, an artist and a retired art educator from West Caldwell-Caldwell Middle School and James Caldwell High School at an awards ceremony at the Essex County Hospital Center in Cedar Grove.

She was recognized as part of the Seventh Annual Essex County Older Americans Heritage Month Celebration on May 14.

Bouzard-Hui, whose work has been exhibited throughout the United States and China, has been a lecturer and instructor at Georgian Court University, Essex County College, Middlesex County College, and in China.

Throughout her career, Bouzard-Hui has applied her artistic skills and passion to help others. While working for CARE, she served as public school art teacher in Biafra, Africa and worked for Eva’s Shelter for the Homeless in Paterson.

She also teaches pottery courses at Rahway Correctional Facility and staged a show featuring the inmates’ artwork.

“I’ve had a wonderful time teaching,” Bouzard-Hui said, adding, “But the most important thing is what the students gave to me. It’s been a great feeling to get up in the morning and see what they could create,” she said.

“The county executive takes the time each month to recognize the diverse cultures and ethnicities present in Essex County and this program is for our older residents. This is a celebration of all your efforts throughout the years and all the positive contributions and things made possible through them,” N.J. State Sen. and Essex County Deputy Chief of Staff Teresa Ruiz said. 

“I want to thank the county executive for honoring our elders,” Freeholder President Blonnie Watson said. “I fit in that category and I’m proud of it. We honor you all today and thank you for all that you have contributed throughout your lives,” she added. 

The award winners were nominated by social service agencies and community organizations that work closely with the Essex Division of Senior Services and were chosen because they are positive role models for the younger generation, have worked tirelessly to assist fellow seniors and made tremendous contributions to improve the quality of life.

 “Older Americans Month is an opportunity for us to recognize the tremendous contributions our senior citizens have made to shape and mold today’s community, and bring attention to the contributions they continue to make on a daily basis to improve our quality of life,” DiVincenzo said, adding “Active in all aspects of life, our senior population is proving that you don’t slow down after you reach a certain age,” DiVincenzo said.

Bouzard-Hui was among four Essex County residents honored at the ceremony. Other honorees included Verona resident Hilda Lutzke, Newark resident Alma Beatty and East Orange resident Rev. Dr. Leora Liggins.