By: Richard L. Smith
NJ Sharing Network, a key non-profit organization dedicated to saving and enhancing lives through organ and tissue donation in New Jersey, has welcomed Ms. Catherine M. DeAppolonio as their new General Counsel and Government Affairs.
In her role, DeAppolonio will manage significant aspects of the organization's legal operations, focusing on risk management, policy review, and compliance education within the team.
Expressing her enthusiasm, DeAppolonio stated, “I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of NJ Sharing Network’s esteemed leadership team to advance our lifesaving mission. Every day brings fresh opportunities to contribute to the powerful impact organ and tissue donation and transplantation has on the lives of donor families, recipients, and our entire community.”
Residing in Scotch Plains with her husband, Christian Solis, and their son, Michael, DeAppolonio brings a personal connection to her professional role.
Catherine DeAppolonio earned her Juris Doctorate from Albany Law School of Union University and has been practicing law in New Jersey and New York since 2005 and 2006, respectively.
With over 16 years in private practice, her focus has been on civil litigation, employment defense, and law enforcement defense, among others.
Notably, DeAppolonio served on the New Jersey Supreme Court's District XII Ethics Committee from 2013 to 2021 and was recognized as a New Jersey Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2018 to 2020.
Her dedication to organ and tissue donation is also deeply personal.
DeAppolonio became a staunch supporter of the cause following the tragic death of her best friend and college roommate, who saved lives as an organ donor at the age of 20.
Carolyn M. Welsh, President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network, praised DeAppolonio's commitment and leadership, noting, “Her expertise and critical thinking skills will help ensure NJ Sharing Network’s continued growth as one of the top performing Organ Procurement Organizations (OPO) in the nation.”
DeAppolonio's appointment is seen as a significant asset to the NJ Sharing Network, enhancing its capabilities in navigating complex legal landscapes and advancing its mission of saving lives through organ and tissue donation.