A proud, native Hamiltonian, Eileen Thornton is a graduate of Rider College, where she studied commerce, journalism, and business. She believes her college education prepared her well for her career in public relations, marketing, and communications in the private and public sectors.
Her first job was at the Mercer County Chamber of Commerce. She worked as the PR assistant and assistant to the magazine editor. Thornton moved on from her time at the Chamber to Lenox China’s public relations and advertising department.
From there, she joined the world of state government. Most of her career was spent with the state tourism agency, New Jersey Department of Commerce and Economic Development. As state business tourism manager, she was involved in economic development activities and in marketing the state as a business and vacation destination.
Among her proudest accomplishments was her role in the effective and successful “New Jersey and You. Perfect Together” tourism campaign, which is still considered among best tourism ad campaigns in the nation. Thornton is also proud of her role, along with tourism director Victoria Schmidt in helping to make Cape May a national destination.
When the department was privatized to a commission, Thornton joined the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. She retired as a special project specialist in the commissioner’s communications office. She was elected to the Hamilton Council in 2001 and served as president in 2004.
Describe your morning routine.
Me and my rescue dog. Grady wake up at 6:30 a.m., get settled and head out for a walk at 7 a.m. When we return, I’ll turn on GMA and have breakfast. At 8:30, I check messages on my cell and computer, organize for the day, and get ready to head out for appointments.
What is your favorite part of your job and why?
I am retired and volunteer with many organizations. I am also involved in local political groups. I enjoy giving back to the community with the following groups: Sunshine Foundation, Girl Scouts of America, Interfaith Caregivers of Mercer County, Board of Women in Elected Office, and the NJ Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.
What is your idea of a perfect day?
A day of leisure with Grady, hanging with friends, and reading.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
People that procrastinate and do not follow through with assignments.
How do you wind down at the end of a busy day or week?
Often there are evening events to attend. On an evening with no event, we will settle down at 5:30 p.m. and hang in the sunroom, reading. At the end of the week, I will often gather with friends for food and a libation.
What leisure activities do you enjoy away from the office?
Reading, walking with Grady, travel to New York City and the Shore area, and dinner with friends.
Finish the sentence: Most people don’t know that—
My first job was with the Mercer Chamber of Commerce. Also, I had a successful role in the “Perfect Together” state tourism campaign with Gov. Corzine.
If you could learn any skill, what would it be?
I wish I was a better handyman around the house, working with tools.
Stranded on a desert island, name three things you need to survive.
Reading material, a writing pad, and wine.
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in business?
The importance of being on a team and working together. You need each other to succeed.
If you could start over, what profession would you pursue?
Criminal Investigator or investigative reporter.
Describe the characteristics of a successful professional in your industry.
A person with commitment, integrity, and responsibility. In government-related public work, you should serve for the better and truly care about your service.