Basking Ridge Advocate Attends State of the Union as Guest of Congressman Kean

Sherry Nelson, a local disability advocate, was invited to the annual address by Rep. Tom Kean Jr.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Sherry Nelson, a resident of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, attended the State of the Union Address in Washington, D.C. as a guest of U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. Nelson, a mother of two sons with autism, has been a longstanding advocate for individuals with disabilities and their families in the Somerset County area.

Why it matters

Nelson's invitation to the State of the Union highlights the importance of advocating for the needs of individuals with disabilities and their families. Her work to expand educational opportunities, recreational programming, and community inclusion for children and adults with special needs has made a significant impact in her local community.

The details

As a co-president of Bernards Parents for Exceptional Children, Nelson has worked closely with educators, administrators, and fellow parents to improve services and ensure students with disabilities have access to appropriate resources. Her advocacy has also extended beyond the classroom, as she has partnered with community organizations to help expand recreational and social programming for adults with disabilities.

  • On Tuesday night, Nelson attended the State of the Union Address in Washington, D.C.

The players

Sherry Nelson

A resident of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, and a mother of two sons with autism. Nelson has been a longstanding advocate for individuals with disabilities and their families in the Somerset County area.

U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr.

The U.S. Representative for New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, who invited Nelson to attend the State of the Union Address as his guest.

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What they’re saying

“Kean said Nelson's presence underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen support systems for individuals with disabilities and to ensure families have access to clear information and effective services.”

— U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (tapinto.net)

The takeaway

Nelson's invitation to the State of the Union Address highlights the importance of advocating for the needs of individuals with disabilities and their families. Her work to improve educational, recreational, and community resources for this population has had a significant impact in her local community, and her presence at the annual address underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen support systems and ensure families have access to the services they need.