Dawn Zimmer was born on April 16, 1968, in Maryland. She was raised in New Hampshire before eventually settling in New Jersey. Zimmer attended the University of New Hampshire, where she studied history. After completing her studies, she ventured to Japan, where she worked as an English teacher for a brief period. This experience broadened her worldview and deepened her passion for community engagement.
Zimmer's foray into politics began when she became active in various civic organizations in Hoboken. She lent her voice to causes such as the Southwest Parks Coalition, the Kaplan Cooperative Preschool, and the Elysian Charter School PTO. Her commitment to serving her community caught the attention of residents and established her as a respected figure in local politics.
Zimmer's political career took a significant turn when she was elected as the Hoboken City Council President in 2009. Despite losing the mayoral election to Peter Cammarano, fate intervened when Cammarano resigned amidst corruption charges. Zimmer stepped in as the acting Mayor, assuming the responsibilities of leading the city during a tumultuous period.
One of Zimmer's most notable moments in office came in 2014 when she accused New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and his administration of withholding relief funds from Hoboken following the devastation of Hurricane Sandy. This bold move showcased Zimmer's unwavering dedication to advocating for her constituents and holding those in power accountable for their actions.
Zimmer's personal life has been marked by her marriage to business executive Stan Grossbard, with whom she shares two children. Balancing the demands of public service with family life has been a challenge for Zimmer, but she continues to navigate both with grace and determination.
Throughout her tenure as Mayor of Hoboken, Dawn Zimmer left a lasting impact on the community through her advocacy for transparency, accountability, and social justice. Her commitment to serving the people of Hoboken serves as a testament to the power of individuals to effect positive change in their communities.