Lisa Bender

“We have entered an era where science, reason, and education are under attack. I feel strongly that we need more individuals that will make evidence-based decisions to serve in government. Renewable energy is about more than just the environment. It’s about building our economy, creating good-paying union jobs, and reducing our dependence on foreign oil. As New Jersey moves to achieve its sustainability goals, it’s our job to help the public understand the reasoning behind our actions. The 2nd district is where my husband and I have raised our family. As a member of the Assembly, I want to be a part of making sure it’s an amazing place to live for generations to come.”

Lisa Bender is a marine scientist, small business owner, environmental expert, and real estate agent. She is a strong proponent of reproductive freedom and building our economy by bringing good-paying union jobs to South Jersey through our transition to renewable energy.

Bender earned a bachelor’s degree in Science from Vanderbilt University and a master’s degree in Science, with a concentration in geochemical oceanography, from the University of South Florida College of Marine Science.

Her passion for the environment led her to join AmeriCorps in 2002 as a state Department of Environmental Protection Watershed Ambassador for the Great Egg Harbor River Watershed. This role brought her into schools to teach and into the field with students and community groups.

She has over 20 years of experience working as an environmental consultant to help build sustainability programs in towns along the coast from Atlantic City to Cape May. Bender has served as the Chairperson for the Somers Point Environmental Commission & Green Advisory Committee for nine years and previously served as executive director of the Patcong Creek Foundation and County Recycling Coordinator for the Atlantic County Utilities Authority.

Bender owns a marketing and photography business and is a licensed real estate agent.

Since 2004, Lisa and her husband, Bob, have lived in Somers Point with their two sons.

Her husband is a Firefighter with Ocean City Fire Department and president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey Local 4032.