NJHOF Program 2026 by princetonsc

18TH ANNUAL INDUCTION CEREMONY

CLASS OF

2026 LEAD SPONSOR

#1 IN NEW JERSEY. ONCE AGAIN. The most nationally ranked specialties in NJ. Hackensack University Medical Center • #1 adult & children’s hospitals in NJ • #4 hospital in NY-NJ Metro Area

• More nationally ranked specialties than any other NJ hospital • #1 Cancer Center in NJ and the state’s only to be nationally ranked

Ranked in the top 10% nationally for clinical excellence in: • Cancer • Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery • Diabetes & Endocrinology

• Neurology & Neurosurgery • Orthopedics

• Pulmonology & Lung Surgery • Urology

Jersey Shore University Medical Center

• Top 10 hospital in NJ and the best in Monmouth and Ocean Counties Nationally high performing procedures and conditions in: • Colon cancer surgery • Diabetes • Heart arrhythmia

• Heart attack • Heart bypass surgery • Heart failure

• Kidney failure • Knee replacement • Leukemia, lymphoma & myeloma • Stroke

JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute

• #39 in the nation and one of the best physical rehabilitation hospitals in NJ

HACKENSACK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER

Lead Sponsor of the New Jersey Hall of Fame

JOSEPH M. SANZARI & K. HOVNANIAN CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS

JERSEY SHORE UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER

JFK JOHNSON REHABILITATION INSTITUTE

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Congratulations! Robert C. Garrett

FACHE, Chief Executive Officer, Hackensack Meridian Health, on being inducted into the Class of 2026 New Jersey Hall of Fame. Bob is a global healthcare leader who is the driving force behind New Jersey’s largest and most comprehensive health network, its nationally ranked care and innovation and the opening of a new medical school. Bob, thank you for being a leader whose extraordinary contributions have transformed healthcare, benefitted countless patients and communities, and will inspire future generations.

Because ready is who we are. NJready.com

Ready to be there. Congratulations to the 2026 New Jersey Hall of Fame inductees.

CONGRATULATIONS Doc, John, Mac, Dad and Grandpa

We are always proud of you. Love Your Family

McMullen Family Foundation would like to

CONGRATULATE the entire

2026 NJHOF Class of Inductees.

Here for Our Community.

Here for You. AtlantiCare wishes the best to a true visionary, Christopher Paladino. Congratulations!

1-888-569-1000 | AtlantiCare.org

September, 2026 Hackensack Meridian Health is so proud to be the lead sponsor of the New Jersey Hall of Fame, which honors the incredible talent that inspires all of us in New Jersey. The 2026 class has made remarkable contributions in the world of the arts, culture, public service, business and much more. This year, we honor great leaders in government including Gov. Christine Todd Whitman and the late Donald Milford Payne Sr., New Jersey’s first African American elected to Congress. We also recognize incredible trailblazers in sports and music including SZA, a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and Academy Award nominee; Edward Brigati, Jr., American singer and songwriter; the late David Brigati, American singer and the late Dino Danelli, American drummer; Lawrence Taylor, the former New York Giants Linebacker and Pro Football Hall of Famer; and the late Dr. John J. McMullen, former owner of the New Jersey Devils and Houston Astros. Heartfelt thanks to those who have left their mark through education and philanthropy, including the late Geraldine R. Dodge, benefactor of the foundation that bears her name; and Thomas M. Eastwick, President of Eastwick College and HoHoKus School of Trade and Technical Sciences. We also honor Tom Weatherall, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish New Jersey, which has helped brighten the lives of more than 13,000 children; Radio & TV personality Big Joe Henry, and Educator of the Year Marbel Tamayo. We would also like to congratulate our CEO Robert C. Garrett for his visionary leadership that continues to transform health care throughout New Jersey. We also honor other key business leaders who are being recognized including the late James E. Burke, former CEO of Johnson & Johnson and Christoper J. Paladino, President of New Brunswick Development Corporation (DEVCO). Congratulations to the entire class of 2026! Thank you to the New Jersey Hall of Fame for everything you do to honor these great New Jerseyans!

Hackensack Meridian Health

Dear Friends of the New Jersey Hall of Fame, On behalf of our Board of Trustees, inductees, and our entire team, it’s an honor to welcome you to our 18th Annual Induction Ceremony! The Class of 2026 reminds us that greatness is defined not only by achievement but by perseverance, service, and determination to make the world better. The accomplishments of these distinguished inductees have shaped modern history, all while inspiring others to pursue personal excellence. Tonight, we celebrate the Class of 2026 for all they continue to achieve and inspire through their lives and legacies. Beyond honoring the accolades of Garden State greats, the NJ Hall of Fame is committed to a greater purpose: inspiring the next generation of leaders. Through our world-class museum at American Dream, educational initiatives, and programs, we bring remarkable stories to life and instill the timeless ideal of Areté in every visitor. This past year, we’ve supported that mission by facilitating dozens of field trips, developing partnerships with organizations such as the Girl Scouts of Northern NJ and Montclair’s College for Education and Engaged Learning, and awarding 9 student scholarships. We hosted the Whitney Houston 40th Anniversary Capstone, honored Everyday Heroes from throughout the state, and celebrated the grit, talent, and tenacity that define New Jersey. These milestones are made possible through the generous support of our sponsors, public officials, and partners, who believe in preserving our state’s remarkable legacy and investing in its future. We’re grateful for your ongoing commitment to ensuring that Jersey’s greatness is celebrated worldwide. As you enjoy tonight’s ceremony, we hope you’re inspired by the potential of what each of us can achieve when we dedicate our talents to serving something greater than ourselves. With gratitude,

Jon F. Hanson Chairman

Steve Edwards President

Leo T. Ehrline, III Executive Vice President

LEADERSHIP CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

Jon F. Hanson, Chairman and Founder, The Hampshire Companies

PRESIDENT

Steve Edwards, President, BGIA

CHAIRMAN EMERITUS

John Keegan, President and Chairman of the Charles Edison Fund and Edison Innovation Foundation

CHAIRMAN EMERITUS

Bart Oates, Partner, Avison Young Retired Center, NY Giants

TRUSTEES Tony Armlin, Vice President, Triple Five Tom Bracken, President/CEO, New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce Kevin L. Clayton, Managing Partner, Finley Ridge Group Fletch Creamer, Jr., Partner, River Bank Management Terry Frassetto, President, Saddleback Real Estate Developers Robert C. Garrett, CEO, Hackensack Meridian Health Network Angelo J. Genova, Esq., Chairman & Co-Founding Partner, Genova Burns, LLC Aisha Glover, Head of Urban Innovation, Audible Amy Herbold, President and CEO, Choose New Jersey Ted Knauss, Senior Vice President and Market Leader, NJ, NY, CT – Commercial Banking, Corporate & Institutional Banking, The PNC Financial Services Group Calvin Ledford Jr., President, PSEG Foundation Director, Corporate Social Responsibility Kevin McCabe, Partner/Director of Public and Political Affairs, River Crossing Strategy Group David Munshine, President and CEO, The Munshine Group Peter Simon, Founding Partner, Simon Quick David Smith, Partner, Princeton Public Affairs Group Sean Spiller, Former President, NJEA Tom Sullivan, CEO, Princeton Partners Gary Taffet, Managing Member, Acrisure New Jersey Brett Tanzman, Principal, Garden Homes Development Finn Wentworth, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist, Former President of YankeeNets, LLC

LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Leo T. Ehrline, III

VICE PRESIDENT, FOUNDATION OPERATIONS Tammy Uzzell

GENERAL MANAGER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NJHOF AT AMERICAN DREAM Bryan J. Blaney

DIRECTOR, EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS Alexandra Genova

DIRECTOR, DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS Rocky Halsey

DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS Brenda De Santis

DIRECTOR, TECHNOLOGY SERVICES Perry Simon

ADVISORY BOARD R. Thurman Barnes Marie Blistan Adam Faiella Steve Gorelick Bill Kettleson Karen Martin Michael Rockland Carol Ross-Jackson Daphne Williams Fox, Esq.

WE ARE PROUD TO THANK OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS

LEAD SPONSOR

Saddleback Real Estate Developers

Hackensack Meridian Health

The Taffet Family

MAJOR SPONSORS

Kim and Finn Wentworth

PSEG/ PSEG Foundation The State of New Jersey

FOUNDING SPONSORS Acrisure Al Leiter Foundation Bank of America Business and Governmental Insurance Agency The Charles Edison Fund The Clayton Family Creamer Family Foundation Edison Innovation Foundation The Edwards Family Genova Burns, LLC Group One, LLC The Hampshire Foundation Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey

Triple Five Group

SUPPORTING SPONSORS Inserra Supermarkets Inc. Group One LLC Buckelew Family Foundation Teachers Insurance Plan Johnson & Johnson NJEA

MEDIA & EXHIBITS SPONSORS 1010 WINS Battleship New Jersey BINJE FOX 5

InsiderNJ Interstate Outdoors Jersey Matters The Jersey Sound

F.M. Kirby Foundation, Inc.

Meadowlands Chamber

S. Dillard and Adrienne Kirby Family Philanthropic Fund (CFNJ)

NJParenting.com

The Munshine Group NIP Group New Jersey Education Association NJM Insurance Group PNC Financial Services Prudential Financial Services RWJBarnabas Health Russo Development/ Russo Family Foundation

Montclair Local NJ TRANSIT NJEA Review MY9NJ Newark Liberty International Airport News 12 New Jersey New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission NJ Advance Media (NJ.com)

WE ARE PROUD TO THANK OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS NJArts.net NJ Family New Jersey Monthly New Jersey Stage NJ PBS New Jersey Turnpike Authority New Jersey 101.5 New York Waterway NorthJersey.com OnNJ Patch Port Authority of NY & NJ “Remember Them with Steve Adubato & Jacqui Tricarico” TAPinto Telemundo/ NBC-NY Travel Plaza Media Verizon Fios

EXHIBIT SPONSORS

2026 INDUCTION CEREMONY SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSORS DEVCO Eastwick College Hackensack Meridian Health Inserra Supermarkets McMullen Family Foundation PNC Financial Services

PSEG Corporate & PSEG Foundation

DIAMOND SPONSORS Charles Edison Fund | Edison Innovation Foundation The Clayton Family Group One LLC Hampshire Foundation Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey

Hackensack Meridian Health Late Night Jersey TV

JINGOLI and DCO Energy

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ Karaoke Stage

New York Giants

Johnson & Johnson Onyx Equities | Russo Development

PNC Financial Services Fly Me to the Moon

Saddleback Real Estate Development

PSEG/ PSEG Foundation Everyday Heroes

Elana & Brett Tanzman

Simon Quick Advisors United Airlines Kim & Finn Wentworth The Wilf Family

GOLD SPONSORS Acrisure Betty Wold Johnson Foundation

WE ARE PROUD TO THANK OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS BGIA Insurance

Meadowlands Chamber

The Burke Foundation

Sills, Cummis, & Gross

Creamer Family Foundation

SJP Properties

EleanWeb Breeding Council

Town Title Agency

Genova Burns LLC

VNA Health Group

Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation

Vollers Excavating & Construction, Inc.

GTB Partners

Xavier High School

Make-A-Wish New Jersey McKinsey & Company

BLUE & YELLOW SPONSORS

New Jersey Devils

Bergen Brookside Auto Body & Towing

David Smith and Family Princeton Public Affairs Group South Jersey Industries (SJI) Gov. Christine Todd Whitman and Family Windels Marx Lane & Mittendorf, LLP

SILVER SPONSORS

CBIZ CBRE | Property Management CSG Law NJCPA Walsh Company World Insurance

Audible

PROGRAM PATRONS

Buckelew Family Foundation

Atlanticare

CohnReznick

The Bolte Family Foundation

Fedway

Borough of Seaside Heights

Lincoln Tech

Art Cifelli

RBC Capital Markets

Haveron Total Health

River Crossing Strategy Group

IBEW Local 456

The Munshine Group

Joseph M. Sanzari, Inc.

U.S. Title Solutions, LLC

NFL Foundation

BRONZE SPONSORS Bergen New Bridge Medical Center Creative Office Resources ELKUS MANFREDI ARCHITECTS ENCON Mechanical Engineers

Middlesex County Building Trades Pete & Elda’s Bar/Carmen’s Pizzeria Phoenix Advisors Social-Emotional Alliance Teacher Insurance Plan - Plymouth Rock Assurance Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center

The Hampshire Companies proudly congratulates the New Jersey Hall of Fame on its

18th Annual Induction Ceremony

and celebrates the remarkable achievements of each member of the

Class of 2026

Congratulations

To The 2026 New Jersey hall of fame INducTees

We celebrate your remarkable achievements and lasting impact on

neW Jersey and beyond. Kevin & Lisa Clayton

The members of the

NEW JERSEY EDUCATION ASSOCIATION

proudly congratulate Paterson EA member

Marbel Tamayo who will receive the “Educator of the Year” Award at the

New Jersey Hall of Fame

18th Annual Induction Ceremony

Pictured above (l-r):

Secretary-Treasurer Tina Dare, President Steve Beatty & Vice President Petal Robertson

the

New Jersey Hall of Fame Class of 2026 with Special Congratulations to

Dr. McMullen and his Family and

Chris Paladino, CEO Devco Chris Paladino, President of DEVCO m

Kim & Finn Wentworth

CONGRATULATIONS

Class of 2026 on your induction into the

New Jersey Hall of Fame

Saddleback Real Estate Developers specializes in industrial properties throughout the state of New Jersey. As a prominent commercial real estate development firm, owners Salvatore Frassetto and Terry Frassetto collectively provide more than 80 years of expertise in the New Jersey marketplace. Saddleback owns and manages 20 industrial properties and has developed more than 20 million square feet of real estate. Saddleback specializes in revitalizing and repositioning distressed properties while offering quick and streamlined closings.

Visit Saddleback Real Estate Developers at www.SaddlebackNJ.com.

Saddleback takes pride in New Jersey and in projects both large and small and is currently looking for new properties of all types to add to their portfolio. Contact Terry Frassetto or Salvatore V. Frassetto to discuss commercial real estate at 973.227.3333, TFrassetto@SaddlebackNJ.com or SFrassetto@SaddlebackNJ.com. Visit Saddleback Real Estate Developers at www.SaddlebackNJ.com.

Jersey Pride. Jersey Build.

ONYX EQUITIES PROUDLY CONGRATULATES

ROBERT C. GARRETT CEO, HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH on his induction into the

NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME Your visionary leadership and enduring commitment to New Jersey have made an extraordinary impact – setting a standard of excellence for generations to come.

F R OM N EW J ERS EY. FOR NE W JE RSE Y.

F O C US ED O N W HA T’ S NEX T.

® ONYXEQUITIES.COM

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE

NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME BUILDING THE FUTURE.

POWERING COMMUNITIES

BUILDING THE FUTURE. POWERING COMMUNITIES. JINGOLI and DCO Energy are proud to partner in delivering innovative construction and energy solutions that strengthen New Jersey and beyond.

CONSTRUCTION

ENERGY SOLUTIONS

COMMITED TO NJ

Complex projects. Delivered with excellence.

Reliable. Sustainable. Built for communities.

Investing locally. Building for the future.

CONGRATULATIONS

TO THE CLASS OF 2026 Honoring New Jersey’s most distinguished citizens and their lasting impact on our community.

LEARN HOW WE’RE BUILDING NEW JERSEY’S FUTURE

CLASS OF 2026

ARTS & LETTERS

EDUCATION, RESEARCH, ENGINEERING, & SCIENCE

ENTERPRISE

Big Joe Henry

Geraldine R. Dodge*

Thomas M. Eastwick

James E. Burke*

ENTERPRISE

PERFORMING ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Robert C. Garrett

Christopher J. Paladino

David Brigati*

Edward Brigati, Jr.

CLASS OF 2026

PERFORMING ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Dino Danelli*

PUBLIC SERVICE

SZA

Donald Milford Payne Sr.*

Governor Christine Todd Whitman

SPORTS

UNSUNG HERO

EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

Dr. John J. McMullen*

Lawrence “LT” Taylor

Tom Weatherall

Marbel Tamayo

*Being honored posthumously.

ARTS & LETTERS

Photo Credit: McKay Imaging Photography

BIG JOE HENRY Big Joe Henry’s weekend radio shows have been number one in the ratings for over 25 consecutive years. Over the course of his quarter of a century as NJ’s Number 1 radio personality, Joe has lived by his motto “Livin’ Large and Lovin’ Life,” donating his time and talent to more than 700 charitable appearances. He has shared the stage with other NJ legends Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Ringo Starr, The Beach Boys, The Four Tops, Blood, Sweat & Tears, The Drifters, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, Ronnie Spector, K.C. & The Sunshine Band, Patti LaBelle, The Spinners, The Temptations and many others. Big Joe hosted The Big Joe Henry Variety Show, which was filmed at McLoone’s Supper Club in Asbury Park and aired in the Philadelphia market. He has appeared in Atlantic City at the Trump Taj Mahal, Trump Plaza, Bally’s Resorts, The Atlantic City Hilton, The House of Blues and The Tropicana Casinos, as well as The PNC Bank Arts Center, The Continental Airlines Arena, Ocean Grove Auditorium, The Count Basie Theater, Madison Square Garden, The Bottom Line and The Bitter End in New York. Big Joe has conducted “live remote broadcasts” from many New Jersey locations. He is no stranger to the comedy stage with numerous appearances throughout Chicago and the Midwest and he maintained a weekly residency at Catch a Rising Star in Princeton in 1999. He served as Co-Founder and Executive Director of The Rock and Roll Music Fund, and been involved in the raising of over $70,000,000 for New Jersey-based charities. In December of 2005 Big Joe spearheaded a toy drive for the children affected by the devastation of Katrina, collecting over 80,000 toys from the people of New Jersey and personally distributed them to those children in the Gulf Coast with the help of New Jersey 101.5. Proceeds from his best-selling cookbook “Big Joe Henry’s Big Jersey Cookbook” went to help support the Foodbank of Monmouth and Ocean counties, now known as Fulfill. His voice and image have been in hundreds of radio and television commercials for McDonalds, American Express, Ford and many other global advertisers. He narrated the award-winning film Asbury Park: Riot, Redemption, Rock and Roll with Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Van Zandt, Southside Johnny and other notable New Jersey musicians, released in June of 2019 to 1400 theaters in the U.S. and 30 other countries. Appeared in the film This Is The Year starring David Henrie (Executive Producer Selena Gomez) and hosted the premiere film pre-show available in 46 countries with interviews of cast and other social influencers. Since 1994, he has appeared before 7,000,000 people in the State of NJ, an unprecedented feat for a radio personality.

Photo Credit: North Jersey History and Genealogy Center, the Morristown and Morris Township Library

*Being honored posthumously.

EDUCATION, RESEARCH,

ENGINEERING, & SCIENCE

GERALDINE R. DODGE* Geraldine R. Dodge (April 3, 1882 – August 13, 1973) was the youngest child of Almira Geraldine Goodsell and William Avery Rockefeller, Jr., who helped found Standard Oil with his brother John D. Rockefeller, Sr. and four other partners. In 1907, Geraldine married Marcellus Hartley Dodge, President of the Remington Arms Company, and in 1916 they purchased the estate in Madison, New Jersey now known as Giralda Farms. Geraldine lived during the era when many of America’s great personal fortunes, including her family’s, were transformed into modern organized philanthropy. For decades, she was a great benefactress of Madison and surrounding communities. Animals, particularly English Cocker Spaniels and German Shepherds, were Geraldine’s passion. She founded the Morris and Essex Dog Club which, for thirty years, sponsored an annual exhibition that became internationally known as the world’s most prestigious. Mrs. Dodge was a breeder of dogs, and she also judged at major dog shows in every American state as well as the premier shows in Germany, Canada, Ireland, and England. In 1924, she was the first woman invited to judge Best in Show for the Westminster Kennel Club. Tragically, her only child, Hartley Dodge, died in a car crash in France in 1930. Mrs. Dodge’s legacy since her death in 1973 is the institutions she endowed through her will: St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, which she established on 16 acres of her Giralda Farms estate, and the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, which, over almost 50 years has distributed more than $500 million in grants and technical support to nonprofits in New Jersey and beyond.

EDUCATION, RESEARCH,

ENGINEERING, & SCIENCE

THOMAS M. EASTWICK For forty years, Thomas M. Eastwick has transformed the lives of thousands of New Jersey residents. His belief that education should be practical, affordable, and accessible has helped more than 50,000 graduates build meaningful careers, support their families, and strengthen their communities. In 1985, Mr. Eastwick purchased the HoHoKus Secretarial School in Ramsey, New Jersey, with just 32 students and a vision: to create educational pathways for people seeking opportunity beyond the traditional four-year college model. Twenty years later, HoHoKus School became the very first proprietary school in the state of New Jersey to receive degree granting approval becoming Eastwick College. Today, Eastwick College and the HoHoKus School of Trade serve approximately 4,500 students annually across campuses in Ramsey, Hackensack, Nutley, and Paterson. Mr. Eastwick recognized early that New Jersey’s workforce needed skilled professionals in healthcare, technology, business, and the trades. Under his leadership, Eastwick developed career-focused programs in nursing, cardiovascular sonography, surgical technology, funeral services, HVAC, welding, plumbing, and electrical trades. These programs prepare graduates for high-demand careers that provide economic stability and upward mobility. What sets Mr. Eastwick apart is not only his entrepreneurial vision but his community involvement beyond the classroom. Mr. Eastwick has dedicated his time and expertise to organizations that strengthen New Jersey’s workforce and healthcare systems. He serves in leadership roles with workforce development boards, healthcare institutions, educational organizations, and regional chambers of commerce, helping shape policies and partnerships that benefit communities throughout the state. Equally important is his commitment to philanthropy. Through the Eastwick Foundation, Mr. Eastwick has helped raise more than $500,000 to combat hunger through the Feed the Hungry program while providing over a million dollars to other local non-profit organizations. In addition, he has provided hundreds of merit- and need-based scholarships to students facing financial hardship. His belief that no one should have to choose between an education and basic necessities continues to guide his charitable work. Over the years, Mr. Eastwick has received numerous awards recognizing his leadership, philanthropy, and service. Yet his greatest achievement is reflected in the lives of the graduates who found opportunity because someone believed in their potential. Thomas M. Eastwick’s legacy is one of vision, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the people of New Jersey. By opening doors to education, employment, and economic advancement, he has empowered tens of thousands of individuals to achieve their own version of the American Dream.

*Being honored posthumously.

ENTERPRISE

JAMES E. BURKE* Few business leaders have had a greater influence on modern corporate responsibility than James E. Burke, whose response to the 1982 Tylenol crisis that imperiled one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies set a standard for integrity and transparency. Burke was born in Rutland, Vermont in 1925. After returning from World War II, he earned an economics degree from the College of the Holy Cross and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He joined Johnson & Johnson in 1953, beginning a 37-year career with the company. In his first two decades at J&J, Burke rose through its consumer marketing ranks, becoming president in 1973. He was the company’s chairman and CEO for the last 13 years of his tenure, overseeing a period of remarkable growth. Under Burke’s leadership, J&J’s annual sales tripled to $9 billion, and the company significantly expanded its global footprint. In 1982, Burke faced the biggest test of his career. That September, the first of seven deaths from poisoned Tylenol was reported in the Chicago area. The crisis led national newscasts night after night. People were panicked. Sales of Tylenol plummeted. He held frequent press briefings and remained the public face of his company through a series of bold corrective actions. In October, he recalled 31 million bottles of Tylenol nationwide — at a cost of many millions of dollars. That same month, J&J introduced tamper-proof packaging that today is taken for granted. The following year, with public confidence restored, Tylenol fully recovered its market share. Burke’s response is seen today as a textbook example of crisis management marked by candor and decisiveness. As John F. Welch Jr., former chairman and chief executive of General Electric, observed, “It was a huge legacy to leave: When you have a problem, deal with it openly, up front.” After retiring from Johnson & Johnson, Burke chaired the Partnership for a Drug-Free America and served on the boards of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Carnegie Institution of Washington. In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded Burke the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the nation’s highest civilian honor. Fortune magazine named Burke one of the “10 Greatest CEOs of All Time” in 2003. A longtime Princeton resident, Burke died in 2012 at the age of 87. His passion for improving the health and well-being of children and families lives on today through the Burke Foundation in Princeton, which he founded in 1989. From the beginning of his philanthropic journey, Burke chose to invest in helping children and their families thrive. In his memory, the Burke Foundation supports organizations, initiatives, and policies that create equal opportunities for all families and children in New Jersey.

ENTERPRISE

ROBERT C. GARRETT Robert C. Garrett is the CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey’s largest health network with 18 hospitals, more than 500 patient care locations, 40,000 team members, 7,000 physicians and the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. Mr. Garrett has been recognized in Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare for the last four years and received the 2025 Ellis Island Medal of Honor, recognized by both Houses of Congress. Hackensack Meridian Health is a leader in clinical excellence with the network’s flagship hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, ranked among the top 20 hospitals in the U.S. according to U.S. News & World Report. The network’s two children’s hospitals are ranked No. 1 in New Jersey for the last two years. The John Theurer Cancer Center is the top cancer center in the state and ranks among the top 50 nationwide, according to U.S. News & World Report. Mr. Garrett was also the driving force in creating the Center for Discovering and Innovation, which has secured more than 700 grants and $500 million in research funding since its inception in 2019, as well as the Carrier Clinic, a behavioral health center for excellence and Hospital-at-Home, which provides acute-care in patient homes. Mr. Garrett successfully led Hackensack Meridian through the COVID-19 pandemic and his vision led to the opening of the first new private medical school in New Jersey in 60 years. The network continues to expand access to care, innovate treatment, accelerate research and revolutionize behavioral healthcare. Under Mr. Garrett’s visionary leadership, the network added four hospitals and is investing more than $3 billion in expanding its ambulatory footprint, renovating existing hospital campuses and opening new care centers. In June 2026, it announced a potential partnership with Hunterdon Health in central New Jersey. Mr. Garrett has led a strategy to strengthen culture by focusing on transparency, clear mission and core values, resulting in Hackensack Meridian ranking No. 39 in Fortune 100 Best Places to Work For 2026 across all sectors in the U.S. The network also became the first health system in the U.S. to receive the Joint Commission’s Health Care Equity Certification for its successful strategies to eliminate health disparities, address socioeconomic needs, and provide equitable care for the communities it proudly serves. Mr. Garrett plays a major role in global healthcare and served as Chair of the World Economic Forum’s Health and Healthcare Governor’s Community. The network has also announced a strategic affiliation agreement with Apollo Hospitals, India’s largest private healthcare system to leverage the strengths of both organizations to enhance patient care, improve affordability and promote community health. His leadership has garnered much professional praise and he is a seasoned commentator and has appeared on CBS’s Face the Nation, CNBC’s Squawk Box and many other outlets. He has authored several Op-Eds in national media and is scheduled to publish his first book this year with Dr. Jose Azar entitled Why Not: The Question that Drives Agile Leadership in Healthcare and Beyond.

ENTERPRISE

CHRISTOPHER J. PALADINO Christopher Paladino has served as President of the New Brunswick Development Corporation (DEVCO) since 1994, leading large-scale, innovative redevelopment projects that have transformed communities across New Jersey. Under his leadership, DEVCO, a nonprofit real estate organization, has developed more than 9 million square feet of residential, commercial, academic, medical and research projects valued at over $4.4 billion. Paladino is best known for creating innovative public-private partnerships, often connecting collaborators from various industries. Through his ability to bring together diverse partners and to build consensus, Paladino has turned challenging redevelopment ideas into successful projects while advancing important community and public policy goals. One of the most exciting projects is the newly completed H-1 @ The HELIX, a $730 million facility that will bring together the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University’s Translational Research facility, and the New Jersey Innovation Hub. He also recently led the completion of the $900 million Rutgers Cancer Institute–Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center, the first freestanding cancer hospital to be developed in New Jersey. Previously, he saw the development of the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center and residential project. Over the years, Paladino has led numerous high-profile projects, including Stockton University’s Atlantic City campus, the South Jersey Gas headquarters, the College Avenue Redevelopment Initiative at Rutgers–New Brunswick, and the conversion of the former Rutgers Law School in Newark into university housing, along with many other commercial, academic, and residential redevelopment efforts throughout New Jersey. A proud Rutgers graduate, Paladino earned both his bachelor’s and law degrees from the University. Christopher served as a Distinguished Senior Policy Fellow at the Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University. He has been recognized by Rutgers as a Loyal Son and was named one of the University’s prestigious Rutgers 250 Fellows, an honor awarded to just 80 distinguished alumni out of more than 500,000 graduates. He was also awarded an honorary doctorate degree by Stockton University. Today, he serves as a Trustee of the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Board of Trustees, and as a Director of South Jersey Industries. A lifelong resident of New Jersey, Christopher and his wife Erin Dolan have three grown children and four grandchildren.

PERFORMING ARTS &

*Being honored posthumously.

ENTERTAINMENT

DAVID BRIGATI* The soulful Architect of Jersey Harmony Early life: New Jersey’s musical legacy is defined by its raw energy, poetic grit, and an unmistakable blue eye soul that changed the landscape of American popular music. At the absolute heart of that Golden Era stood David Michael Brigati. Born in Passaic and raised in Garfield, David was a vocal visionary whose soaring tenor, masterful harmonic arrangements, and tireless dedication behind the scenes earned him a permanent place in music history. David’s journey began in the late 1950s when he formed the Hi-Fives. His extraordinary talent quickly propelled him to national prominence as lead vocalist for Joey Dee and the Starliters. As part of the pioneering mixed-race powerhouse group anchored at New York City’s legendary Peppermint Lounge, David helped ignite a global dance craze and captured his first gold record in 1962 chart-topper “Peppermint Twist.” As his career progressed, David transitioned into the studio, where his genius for arrangement truly shone. He became an indispensable vocal architect for “The Rascals.” Working meticulously behind the scenes, David arranged and executed flawless, multi-layered vocal harmonies that gave the band its signature soulful depth. His brilliant vocal engineering powered The Rascals’ greatest anthems – including historic chart-toppers like “Groovin’,” “A Beautiful Morning,” “People Got To Be Free,” and the hauntingly beautiful “How Can I Be Sure.” David’s profound studio impact earned the highest praise from the industry’s heavyweights. Famed legendary Atlantic Records producer Arif Mardin – who shaped the sound of The Rascals alongside Tom David – was among the numerous icons who repeatedly touted David’s invaluable contributions to their records. Mardin widely recognized David as an essential creative force in the room, whose vocal direction transformed good songs into masterpiece recordings. Because of this elite reputation, David became a highly sought-after first-call New York session singer, collaborating with Mardin on major projects ranging from the average white band’s soul classics to the critically acclaimed 1976 album “Lost in the Wilderness” under the Brigati Brothers moniker. Yet, beyond his technical mastery, David’s true superpower was his generous musical spirit. David was a nurturing mentor who made it his mission to encourage everyone to find and use their unique voice. In the studio, he spent hours instilling confidence in fellow musicians, patiently guiding them to harmonize and showing them that their vocal contributions mattered. David believed that harmony was a collaborative triumph, not a solo act. David spent his life elevating the standard of American vocal music and the hearts of the people who sang it. His career accomplishments seemingly bridged the early doo-wop era with the complex pop-rock movements of the late 1960s.

PERFORMING ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

EDWARD BRIGATI, JR. Edward Brigati, Jr. is an American singer and songwriter, best known as the co-lead voice and co-songwriter of the legendary 1960s soul-rock band, The Rascals. Born on October 22, 1945, in Passaic, New Jersey, Brigati grew up in Garfield. He was mentored into the music industry by his older brother, David. Eddie began his performing career sitting in with bands at a local venue called The Choo Choo Club before making his recording debut on Joey Dee & The Starliters’ single “What Kind Of Love Is This.” He eventually replaced his brother in the Starliters, one of the nation’s first mixed-race musical groups, who sparked a national dance craze with their number-one hit, “The Peppermint Twist.” In 1965, Brigati teamed up with fellow Starliters Felix Cavaliere and Gene Cornish, alongside drummer Dino Danelli, to form The Rascals (alternately known as The Young Rascals). Signed to Atlantic Records, the group launched a massive hit-making career. Following their first number-one smash, “Good Lovin’,” Brigati and Cavaliere formed a prolific songwriting partnership. Together, they penned iconic chart-toppers and classics including “Groovin’,” “People Got To Be Free,” “A Beautiful Morning,” “How Can I Be Sure,” “Lonely Too Long,” and “A Girl Like You.” David Brigati also contributed significantly to the band’s signature sound as a background vocalist and harmony arranger. Shortly after The Rascals disbanded in 1970, Eddie reunited with his brother David and New Jersey musician Edwin Kobylarz. This creative alliance spanned several decades, yielding dozens of songs and the 1976 album Lost In The Wilderness, released under the name “Brigati.” Brigati’s enduring impact on American music has been widely recognized with prestigious industry accolades. In 1997, he was inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame (2005) as a member of The Rascals. He was later inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame (2009) alongside his songwriting partner, Cavaliere. In 2012, The Rascals reunited for “Once Upon A Dream,” a critically acclaimed multimedia Broadway and North American tour helmed by Steven Van Zandt. Continuing his commitment to the music community, Van Zandt introduced Brigati to the Rock-It Live Foundation in 2017. Through this New Jersey-based non-profit organization, Brigati mentors and develops the careers of young musicians in live performance. Today, Brigati remains dedicated to his craft and is currently preparing the gradual release of a vast archive of personal songs and recordings compiled over the past 50 years.

PERFORMING ARTS &

*Being honored posthumously.

ENTERTAINMENT

DINO DANELLI* Dino Danelli was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, on July 23, 1944 (d. December 15, 2022). As a young man, his future seemed precarious. He ran with local gangs and lacked direction until a single television broadcast altered the course of his life. At just 12 years old, Danelli witnessed an iconic “drum battle” between jazz legends Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich. In that exact moment, his ambition crystallized. He decided to dedicate his life to the drums. Determined to master the instrument, Danelli built a makeshift stage in his basement, playfully naming it “Dino’s Casino.” There, he honed his early skills by playing along to records for the neighborhood kids. His growing passion soon took him across the river to New York City and into the legendary Metropole jazz club. At the Metropole, his raw talent caught the attention of the jazz elite. He was befriended and mentored by some of the country’s greatest drummers, including his original inspirations, Buddy Rich and Gene Krupa. Danelli’s big break came during a high-stakes moment at the club. When Lionel Hampton’s regular drummer could not make a gig, Danelli fearlessly sat in. The performance ignited his professional career. He became a dedicated student of the craft, studying every drummer he encountered to forge his own distinct performance style. His showmanship became legendary: dazzling, powerful, visually striking, and stunningly accurate. He quickly gained a formidable local reputation and joined the band Ronnie Speeks and The Elrods. This gig brought him to the Choo Choo Club in Garfield, New Jersey, where he first crossed paths with fellow Jersey native and future bandmate, Eddie Brigati. Shortly after, keyboardist Felix Cavaliere discovered Danelli during another stint at the Metropole. The two musicians traveled to Las Vegas to perform as sidemen for entertainer Sandu Scott. The musical chemistry between them was undeniable, and this crucial union led Cavaliere to call upon Danelli to complete the formation of The Rascals in 1965. With The Rascals, Danelli’s explosive style, master showmanship and rock-solid timekeeping helped propel the band to international superstardom, anchoring hits that defined an era. Today, Danelli is widely considered by his peers to be one of the absolute greatest drummers in rock history. His innovative technique and magnetic stage presence have influenced and inspired hundreds of young musicians to pick up the sticks for decades.

PERFORMING ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Photo Credit: Cassidy Meyers

SZA Born in St. Louis and raised in Maplewood, New Jersey, SZA is a seven-time Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter who has achieved global prominence for her introspective lyrics and unique genre-defying musical style. The Columbia High School alum has consistently shattered records, amassing more than 70 billion streams across all platforms. Her 2017 Top Dawg Entertainment/ RCA Records debut album, Ctrl, was a critical and commercial success that earned five Grammy nominations. Now RIAA-certified 6x Platinum, Ctrl made history as the first album by a female artist to remain on the Billboard 200 for 460 consecutive weeks. The project features the RIAA-certified Diamond hit “Love Galore” alongside numerous multi-platinum tracks. SZA continued her historic run with her 2022 sophomore release, SOS, and its expanded edition, SOS Deluxe: LANA. Both debuted at No. 1 and spent thirteen weeks atop the Billboard 200. Currently 8x Platinum, SOS not only contained the RIAA certified Diamond hits “Kill Bill” and “Snooze,” it set a new record as the first album by a female artist to remain in the Top 10 for 100 weeks, and surpassed Michael Jackson’s Thriller for the longest Top 10 stay by a Black artist in the chart’s history. With over 70 career wins, SZA’s accolades include Grammy Awards for Record of the Year (“luther” with Kendrick Lamar), Best R&B Song (“Snooze” and “Saturn”), and Best Progressive R&B Album (SOS). She has also received Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for “All The Stars.” With her 2023–2024 SOS Tour, SZA became the fourth Black female artist to achieve one of the highest-grossing solo concert tours in history, joining Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Tina Turner. Her 2025 co-headlining Grand National Tour with Kendrick Lamar stands as the most successful duo tour ever. Her influence extends beyond music into film and business. In 2025, she starred in the No. 1 comedy One of Them Days, launched her cruelty-free, gluten-free and vegan makeup line, NOT Beauty, and was appointed Vans’ Artistic Director to co-create exclusive product collections. SZA continues to exemplify fearless creativity, a testament to her immense popularity and record-shattering achievements.

PUBLIC SERVICE

*Being honored posthumously.

DONALD MILFORD PAYNE SR.* Donald Milford Payne Sr., elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1988, became the first African American member of Congress from New Jersey, representing Newark and other portions of Essex County as well as Union and Hudson. A lifelong community activist, educator, and public servant, Payne centered his career on expanding educational opportunity, strengthening urban communities, and advancing human rights. “I want to be a congressman to serve as a model for the young people I talk to on the Newark street corners.” Born July 16, 1934, in Newark, Payne grew up in the working-class neighborhood of Doodletown with his siblings William and Kathryn. He credited the area’s tight-knit community with shaping his values. As a teenager, he joined The Leaguers, a youth support organization led by Reynold and Mary Burch, who helped him earn a scholarship to Seton Hall University. Payne graduated in 1957, later pursued graduate studies, and married Hazel Johnson in 1958. Hazel passed away in 1963. Payne had three children, Donald Jr., Wanda, and Nicole. He worked as a teacher, coach, and later as an executive in his brother’s manufacturing company. Payne entered politics early, managing his brother’s campaign for district leader at age 19. He rose through civic leadership, becoming the first African American president of the YMCA of the United States (1970–1973). He served on the Essex County Board of Freeholders for six years and on Newark’s municipal council beginning in 1982. After two unsuccessful primary challenges to longtime Representative Peter Rodino, Payne won the open seat in 1988 and went on to serve 12 terms. In Congress, Payne served on the Committees on Government Operations, Education and Labor, and Foreign Affairs. He championed literacy, college access, and urban school improvement, sponsoring measures such as the College Opportunity Act of 1991 and the Urban Schools America Act of 1993. He secured millions for Newark parks and community redevelopment. As chair of the Congressional Black Caucus during the 104th Congress, Payne guided the caucus through funding cuts and led efforts to oppose legislation harmful to African American communities. Payne became one of Congress’s most influential voices on African affairs. Known as the “unofficial ambassador to Africa,” he traveled extensively, advocated for human rights, and pushed for stronger U.S. engagement. He condemned violence in Sierra Leone, protested slavery in Sudan, and authored the 2004 resolution declaring genocide in Darfur. He also pressed for democracy in Nigeria, peace in Northern Ireland, and humane treatment of Haitian refugees. He worked with President George W. Bush on HIV/AIDS relief in Africa, praising the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. Payne also sponsored legislation commemorating African American history, including the Commission on the Abolition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade Act and a resolution honoring Justice Thurgood Marshall. Diagnosed with colon cancer in 2012, Payne continued working until his death on March 6, 2012.

PUBLIC SERVICE

GOVERNOR CHRISTINE TODD WHITMAN Christine Todd Whitman is the President of The Whitman Strategy Group (WSG), an environmental consulting firm that has helped leading companies find innovative solutions to their sustainability challenges. Governor Whitman served in the cabinet of President George W. Bush as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from January of 2001 until June of 2003. She was the first person to defeat an incumbent governor in a NJ general election since 1947, becoming the 50th Governor of the State of New Jersey and serving as its first woman governor from 1994 until 2001. As Governor, Whitman earned praise from both Republicans and Democrats for her commitment to preserve a record amount of New Jersey land as permanent green space. She was also recognized by the Natural Resources Defense Council as having instituted the most comprehensive beach monitoring system in the nation. As EPA Administrator, she promoted common-sense environmental improvements such as watershed-based water protection policies. She championed regulations requiring non-road diesel engines to reduce sulfur emissions by more than 95 percent. During her tenure, the Agency was successful in passing and implementing landmark brownfields legislation to promote the redevelopment and reuse of “brownfields,” previously contaminated industrial sites. She is the author of a New York Times best seller called “It’s My Party Too,” which was published in January of 2005 and released in paperback in March 2006. Governor Whitman serves a number of non-profit organizations including as Vice-Chairman of the Trustees of the Eisenhower Fellowships, Executive Committee of the National World War II Museum, and member of the Board of Directors of the World Food Program USA. She is co-chair of the Forward Party, the States United Democracy Center, and the National Institute for Civil Discourse. She is a founding member of the Climate Leadership Council and a Senior Advisor at the Kettering Foundation. She is a member of the advisory board of the ERA Coalition and a member of the Board of Trustees for the Actors Fund Home. She was co-chair of the Commission on the Rule of Law and Democracy at the Brennan Center at New York University. During the 2020 election cycle, she served as Chair of Republicans and Independents for Biden, and as an Advisory Board member for the Voter Protection Project. In 2026, Governor Whitman received the Leadership in Healthcare Parity for New Jersey Award from the NJ Mental Health Institute. In 2018, Governor Whitman was the recipient of the Panetta Institute’s Jefferson-Lincoln Award for her dedication to the key principles of the American democracy and the ideals of the nation. Governor Whitman was awarded The Eisenhower Medal for Leadership and Service in 2017. Prior to becoming Governor, she was the President of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and served on the Somerset County board of Chosen Freeholders. Governor Whitman holds a BA from Wheaton College in Norton, MA, and was married for 41 years to the late John R. Whitman. She has two children and seven grandchildren.

SPORTS

*Being honored posthumously.

Photo Credit: New Jersey Devils

DR. JOHN J. MCMULLEN* Born in Jersey City, NJ, on May 10, 1918, to Charles and Isabella McMullen as the third of five children. Raised in Jersey City and Montclair, he graduated from Montclair High School in 1936, and entered the United States Naval Academy. McMullen graduated in 1940 with a degree in Electrical Engineering and served in World War II. During his service, he earned a Master of Science from M.I.T. and Doctorate of Mechanical Engineering from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich. He retired as a Commander in 1954. From 1954-57, McMullen served as Chief of the Office of Ship Construction and Repair in the U.S. Maritime Administration. In 1958, he established John J. McMullen Associates, a Naval Architects and Marine Engineers firm which he owned for thirty years. Over his career, he operated United States Lines and invested in and directed MPR Associates. He owned Hudson Engineering, Norton Lilly, Perth Amboy Dry Dock, Cornell & Underhill, and Fabco in New Jersey. In 1979, McMullen became majority owner/Chairman of the Houston Astros MLB franchise and Houston Sports Association, which he operated successfully for fifteen years, as a team, major exhibition facility, and regional sports television network. In 1982, Governor Brendan Byrne encouraged him to pursue an NHL franchise for the newly built Meadowlands Arena. McMullen and John Whitehead purchased the Colorado Rockies and transferred the club to the Meadowlands as a public service to their native state and community. A “Name-That-Team” contest was coordinated by New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority through local newspapers. The clear winner was “New Jersey Devils,” from the Pine Barrens mythical legend. McMullen was the Chairman of the Devils, 1982-2000. He went outside the NHL, hiring Lou Lamoriello from Providence College as President/General Manager in 1987. Their partnership ultimately led to three Stanley Cups in New Jersey- 1995, 2000, 2003. McMullen was a Commissioner of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey from 197484. He received the United States Naval Academy Distinguished Graduate Award in 2000 and received Honorary Doctor Degrees from Monmouth University in 1995 and Webb Institute in 1994. He was inducted into the New Jersey Sports Hall of Fame in 1996 and New Jersey High School Ice Hockey Hall of Fame in 2016. Annually, the Devils present the Dr. John J. McMullen Award to an individual(s) who have supported amateur hockey throughout the state. He was the Devils first-ever Ring of Honor Inductee in 2017. McMullen married Jacqueline Joy Everhart from Mt. Vernon, Ohio in 1955. She was working for the Department of State in Washington, D.C., while he was working at the Maritime Administration. Dr. and Mrs. McMullen started McMullen Family Foundation in 1993, which partners principally with education-based New Jersey organizations. They have three children: Peter, Catherine, and John Jr., five grandchildren: James Blake, Bridget Blake, Timothy Blake, Elise McMullen Bitter, and Peter McMullen Jr., and four great- grandchildren: Flynn Blake, Everhart Blake, Brady Bitter, and Blaise Bitter. McMullen, 87, died at home in Montclair on September 16, 2005.

SPORTS

LAWRENCE “LT” TAYLOR Born in Williamsburg, Virginia, in 1959, Lawrence “L.T.” Taylor began his legacy with an All-American career at the University of North Carolina. In 1981, he was drafted by the NY Giants and played for 13 years as Linebacker Number 56 in the National Football League. He played his entire 13-season NFL career in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where he led the New York Giants to two Super Bowl victories, in 1986 and 1990. L.T. is best known for revolutionizing the outside Linebacker position from traditional to a more aggressive technique. This change forced a massive shift in NFL defense strategies. Other major highlights of his legendary career include NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1981) and 3 Time Defensive Player of the Year (1981, 1982 and 1986). In 1986, L.T. won the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, which made him the second defensive player in history to win this prestigious award. L.T.’s on the field impact in East Rutherford includes 73.5 of his career sacks which brought immeasurable pride to the State of New Jersey. He retired in 1993 and was later inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August, 1999. In 2024, L.T. was voted the No. 1 player in New York Giants franchise history during the team’s 100th-Season celebration event. An official committee compiled the Top 100 list and Lawrence was awarded top position. In July 2025, President Donald Trump appointed L.T. to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition, which included an order to revive the Presidential Fitness Test for school children. Lawrence Taylor continues to be an advocate for positive development of today’s youth and focuses on charities that support his efforts. He shares time, resources, experiences, skills and talents with persons of all ages and backgrounds.

UNSUNG HERO

TOM WEATHERALL Tom Weatherall has served as President & CEO of Make-AWish® New Jersey since 2005, after joining the organization as Vice President for Development in 2002. Under his leadership, the chapter has become one of the highest-performing MakeA-Wish chapters in the entire Make-A-Wish enterprise, which includes 57 chapters in the United States and more than 40 international locations. MAWNJ consistently ranks among the Top 10 in fundraising and wish granting. Weatherall led the successful capital campaign that created The Samuel & Josephine Plumeri Wishing Place, fondly known as ‘the castle,’ designed with the guidance of Disney Imagineers. It’s the world’s first dedicated wish-granting facility within the MakeA-Wish organization. It is seen as a ‘game-changer’ by staff, board, donors, volunteers and national leadership, as it has greatly enhanced the wish delivery and overall experience of wish-granting for the children and families served by MAWNJ. Since opening in 2011, the Wishing Place has transformed the wish experience for children and families, enabling the chapter to grant as many wishes in its first 14 years at the castle, as it had in the previous 30 years combined. During his tenure, Make-A-Wish New Jersey has secured the largest gift and largest bequest in Make-A-Wish history at the time and maintained Charity Navigator’s highest four-star rating for exceptional governance and financial stewardship. Under Tom’s leadership, MAWNJ has received the “Power of One Award”—Make-A-Wish America’s highest honor and referred to as “chapter of the year”—in both 2018 and 2022, becoming one of only three chapters to earn this distinction twice. A respected leader, Weatherall has served on numerous Make-A-Wish America national committees, advises chapters on major gift strategies, and in 2023 became the first MakeA-Wish chapter executive to present at a Make-A-Wish International conference. He has also participated in Fanatics’ Professional Athlete Immersion Program alongside former NBA star Allan Houston, mentoring professional athletes interested in philanthropy, and serves on the Advisory Panel for the Garden of Dreams Foundation. Prior to Make-A-Wish, Weatherall held leadership positions in higher education administration and nonprofit consulting at Saint Peter’s University, Seton Hall University, Loyola University New Orleans, and Graham-Pelton Consulting. He has also served on numerous nonprofit boards throughout his career. His honors include induction into the Saint Peter’s University Athletic Hall of Fame, the Meadowlands YMCA Honesty Award, Irishman of the Year from the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of the Jersey Shore, and Humanitarian of the Year from the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

EDUCATOR

OF THE YEAR

MARBEL TAMAYO Marbel is a dedicated educator who has spent three decades serving the Paterson Public School District. Born in Barranquilla, Colombia, she earned her degree in Social and Economic Sciences from the Universidad del Atlántico in 1988. She began her teaching career in her hometown at José Antonio Galán High School, teaching geography and history to grades 9 through 12, laying the foundation for her lifelong devotion to education. In 1996, Marbel brought her passion to New Jersey, starting as a substitute teacher in Paterson. Her professional excellence was quickly recognized when she received the prestigious National Dean’s List Award in 2003. That same year, she joined Edward W. Kilpatrick School as a foreign language teacher, where she founded her very first Spanish Club. From 2011 to 2019, she taught Spanish at School 24 for grades 6 through 8. Beyond the classroom, Marbel demonstrated exceptional leadership by directing two honor societies at School 24: the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) and the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica de Amistad. Since 2019, Marbel has been a proud faculty member at Eastside High School, teaching Spanish to 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. Upon her arrival, she founded the school’s Spanish Club, and in 2020, she established and directed the Esther Forero Chapter of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica, which she continues to lead today. Deeply committed to celebrating cultural heritage, she also created Eastside’s Latino Dance Club. Under her guidance, students have participated in cultural exchanges across school districts, notably performing twelve traditional Hispanic dances at Glen Ridge Schools. Furthermore, Marbel has led extensive community service initiatives, including supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, volunteering at Oasis for abused women and children, visiting adult daycares, and organizing monetary donations for disaster relief, such as the Project of Love for the Dominican Republic during floods. Known for her unwavering commitment, Marbel inspires her students to build selfconfidence, develop compassion, and embrace cultural pride. Her extraordinary dedication was previously recognized when she was named a New Jersey Hall of Fame Everyday Hero. Making history as the first Everyday Hero to be selected as the New Jersey Hall of Fame Educator of the Year, Marbel continues to leave a profound and lasting legacy in the lives of the youth of Paterson and the State of New Jersey.

Congratulations to Chris Paladino on his induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame. A first-ballot Hall of Famer, Chris always steps up to the plate for New Jersey and its communities. RBC Capital Markets is proud to celebrate this well-deserved honor.

The New York Football Giants Congratulate

LAWRENCE TAYLOR

2026 NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

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And The NJ Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Your Neighborhood Supermarket Proudly Caring For and Serving Our Communities For Over 75 Years.

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CLASS OF 2026

NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME ARTS & LETTERS

PERFORMING ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

BIG JOE HENRY

SZA EDWARD BRIGATI, JR. DAVID BRIGATI DINO DANELLI

EDUCATION, RESEARCH, ENGINEERING, & SCIENCE

GERALDINE R. DODGE* THOMAS M. EASTWICK ENTERPRISE

JAMES E. BURKE* ROBERT C. GARRET CHRISTOPHER J. PALADINO PUBLIC SERVICE

DONALD MILFORD PAYNE SR.* GOVERNOR CHRISTINE TODD WHITMAN

SPORTS

DR. JOHN J. MCMULLEN* LAWRENCE TAYLOR UNSUNG HERO

TOM WEATHERALL EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

MARBEL TAMAYO

*B E I N G H ON ORE D P OSTH U M OU S LY

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Congratulations to the Class of 2026 on their induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame.

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At Johnson&&Johnson Johnson,proudly we innovate across fullNew spectrum of Johnson honors the the 2026 Jersey healthcare solutions to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow. Hall of Fame Inductees and pays tribute to former Chairman

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Congratulates

Christopher Paladino and the entire Class of 2026 on their induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame

McKinsey in New Jersey For more than three decades, McKinsey & Company’s New Jersey office has worked to advance sustainable, inclusive growth — partnering with public, private, and nonprofit organizations shaping the future of the Garden State. We bring an entrepreneurial culture, innovative mindset, and deep expertise across consumer, life sciences, healthcare, media, industrials, energy, technology, and financial services.

We’re proud of our New Jersey heritage and to deepen our presence with our new home in Newark. As McKinsey marks its centennial this year, our commitment remains: helping New Jersey thrive for generations to come.

“...you can and must make a difference.” The Burke Foundation celebrates the legacy of our founder

Jim Burke (1925–2012)

Jim Burke dedicated his life to making a difference through visionary leadership, selfless service, and purposeful philanthropy. In 1989, he established the Burke Foundation in Princeton, channeling his passion for children’s health and well-being into action. Nearly four decades later, we are proud to carry his legacy forward, investing in tangible ways to help New Jersey’s children and families thrive.

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The Creamer Family Foundation is proud to be a sponsor of the th 18 Annual Induction Ceremony Congratulations to the 2026 New Jersey Hall of Fame inductees!

TRADITION. INNOVATION. DISTINCTION.

We are proud to sponsor the NJ Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony!

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MIDDLESEX COUNTY BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION TRADES COUNCIL, AFL-CIO

“There is no substitute for our highly skilled Building and Construction Tradespeople” Trustees: GEORGE SOFIELD DENNIS KILLDUFF BILL SILER

Officers: ROBERT DAVIS, President MICHAEL McLAUGHLIN, Vice President BILL GRAYBUSH, Secretary JEFFREY BURNER, Treasurer

Sergeant At Arms: PHILIP MANCINI

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TOM EASTWICK

for being inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame. You have changed thousands of lives through education.

FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT

cjdunc7@gmail.com

Lawyers to Business and Industry

Congratulations to the New Jersey Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Inductees

New Jersey | New York | Florida www.sillscummis.com

THE TOWN FAMILY OF COMPANIES

IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE

18TH ANNUAL NJ HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY

CONGRATULATIONS ROBERT C. GARRETT AND ALL OF THE OTHER HONOREES

princetonsc.com NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK | FLORIDA | PENNSYLVANIA

THETOWNCOMPANIES.COM

Honoring inspiring legacies. JERSEY PROUD.

CELEBRATING

GARDEN STATE G R EAT N E SS ESS The Munshine Group proudly congratulates the 2026 NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES. You make the Garden State proud.

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY DEAR FRIEND CHRIS PALADINO AND TO ALL THE 2026 INDUCTEES.

- ART CIFELLI munshinegroup.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE

NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME

CONGRATULATIONS to the New Jersey Hall of Fame and the Class of 2026.

AND THE

CLASS OF 2026.

DAVID SMITH AND FAMILY

Federal & State Public Affairs Marketing & Crisis Communications Association Management

wswdc.com | ppag.com | princetonsc.com

CONGRATULATIONS to the New Jersey Hall of Fame and the Class of 2026.

From the

BUCKELEW FAMILY FOUNDATION

Fedway Proudly Supports

NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME

Architects for H-1 at HELIX NJ

VNA Health Group

Congratulates

Proudly Supports NJ Hall of Fame Congratulations to Chris Paladino and all the other inductees.

ROBERT C. GARRETT and the New Jersey Hall of Fame's CLASS OF 2026 on their induction

sjpproperties.com A World Class Developer. Built on Excellence.

PROJECT LITERACY

Of Greater Bergen County, Inc.

Congratulations to New Jersey Hall of Fame Class of 2026 inductees:

Tom Eastwick EDUCATION, RESEARCH, ENGINEERING & SCIENCE

& Robert C. Garrett ENTERPRISE

project-literacy.org | 201.301.9674 355 Main St., Hackensack, NJ 07601

CEREMONY ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS EXECUTIVE PRODUCER Steve Edwards

DIRECTOR George Veras

CO-PRODUCERS Brenda De Santis David Smith George Veras

SENIOR EDITOR Eric Welshenbaugh

FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE Kevin L. Clayton Leo T. Ehrline, III Rocky Halsey Jon F. Hanson Rafi Jafri Ted Knauss David Munshine Peter Simon Gary Taffet Brett Tanzman Tammy Uzzell Finn Wentworth

HOST

Danny DeVito

RED CARPET ANNOUNCER Glenn Schuck

PERFORMANCES BY Tommy James Mark Rivera Jessie Wagner

CO-MUSICAL DIRECTORS Mark Rivera & Marc Ribler

HOUSE BAND

The Asbury Park All Stars

CEREMONY ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS CEREMONY PRODUCTIONS Asbury Audio Jason Dermer - Audio Designer/ Recording Engineer Dave Emmerling - Director of Videography Wayne Ferguson - VOG Jim Ferrara - Lighting Director: Gatto Lighting Richard Gaughan - Associate Producer Law Sound & Lighting Inc. Communications

Dave Lilling - Coordinating Production Manager Jennifer Marshall - Prompter MB Video - Projection and Screen Anthony McGowan - Lead Stage Manager Belinda Moss - Makeup Dave Patterson - 2nd Stage Manager Paul Tarter - Tech Manager Joe Vitigliano - Monitor Audio Eric Welshenbaugh - Features Producer Kevin White - Head Utility

THE TEAM AT NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME AT AMERICAN DREAM Octavia Adams Woodnel Alphanor Sorianys Barreiro Jelena Begonja Bryan J. Blaney Brenda De Santis Leo T. Ehrline, III Alexandra Genova Yara Gooden

Rocky Halsey Eduardo Hernandez Alexis Huaman Espinoza Izaiq Jeanty Krishna Leitner Chelaina Joi Mans Michael Pardo Jack Pluymers

Adrian Rubio Perry Simon Tammy Uzzell Deanna van Woerkom Juan Vargas Kenneth W. Vega Zachary Veloz Brittney Winter

GENERAL COUNSEL: NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME Genova Burns, LLC Angelo J. Genova, Esq. Pro Bono Legal Services/ In-Kind Contribution

BILLBOARDS

AC DEVCO, Jon F. Hanson, Chairman Interstate Billboards

CATERER

Aramark Sports + Entertainment In Thyme Catered Events

CAKE POPS

David Burke Hospitality

EVENT MANAGEMENT/GROUND TRAVEL COORDINATOR O’Mealia Signature Events

CEREMONY ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS MEDIA RELATIONS, BRANDING, AND PROGRAM DESIGN PSC

PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER Gellman Images PSC

SIGNAGE/AWARDS

G1 Graphics, David Iommarini

HEAD LIAISON COORDINATOR David Smith

ASSISTANT LIAISON COORDINATOR Tammi Kleszics

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE LIAISON TEAM CAPTAINS

Susan Arnold Aaron Mannella Jason Nielsen Kim Pereira

LIAISONS Haleigh Abey Leigh Abey Linda Abey Marianne Axon Liala Azami Ricky Blanco de Frutos Summer Clark Ray Curtis Liz Curtis Michela DiLorenzo Khadija Doukali Laura Esteban Maggie Fournier Alexandra Granata Kate Granata Ron Gravino Tayler Hedgepeth Christopher Heite Megan Marfiewicz

Sam Marguilis Sheridan Minichini Emma Nickle Jackie Pereira Megan Pereira Briana Reid Eva Reynolds Yana Reynolds Brooke Riley Jennifer Schuck Tre Scott Diana Segarra-Smith Shane Smith Tyler Smith Zoe Stokes Sarah Taffet Laura Uzzell Elijah Weintraub

Visit, be inspired, and begin your journey toward Garden State Greatness! BLAST OFF INTO SPACE in Fly Me to the Moon

INTERVIEW MEGA STARS in Late Night Jersey TV

SING WITH MUSIC ICONS on our Karaoke Stage

For hours, directions, and more visit:

NJHOF.ORG

A YEAR IN REVIEW 1. CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF WHITNEY

3. FIFA WORLD CUP TRADING CARDS

In partnership with The Estate of Whitney E. Houston and The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation

4. EXPANDED EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING

Honored the legacy of Whitney Houston (Class of 2013) by displaying a collection of her iconic outfits and debuting her iconic “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me),” accompanied by exclusive performance footage from Whitney Houston: The Concert for a New South Africa (Durban) on our Karaoke Stage.

2. ONE STATE, MANY STORIES: OUR JERSEY CANVAS

Invited visitors to add their artistic touch to a collaborative, interactive mural in a tribute to New Jersey’s past, present, and future as we prepare to unveil a new exhibit space.

Celebrated our NJ soccer Hall of Famers and got in on the FIFA action by displaying lifesized trading cards that allowed visitors to be inspired by achievements of Tim Howard (Class of 2024), Heather O’Reilly (Class of 2022), Carli Lloyd (Class of 2017), and Christie Patricia Pearce (Rampone) (Class of 2015).

Developed programming that supports teachers, students, and community mentorship groups, including free professional development events for educators in partnership with TeachRock and The College for Education and Engaged Learning at Montclair State University, and a Women in Leadership Panel in collaboration with the Girl Scouts of Northern NJ.

FIELD TRIPS

During the 2025-2026 school year, we hosted field trips for over 2800 student visitors! Learn more by emailing Learning@NJHallofFame.org. Interested in sponsoring a field trip for your local schools or an underserved community? Email Sponsorships@NJhalloffame.org.

EVERYDAY HEROES This past year, we honored nine new individuals as Everyday Heroes, bringing our total to eighteen. These honorees have made significant and lasting impacts on their communities and are now permanently featured in the Hall of Fame. Nominate your own hero on our website at NJHOF.ORG/EVERYDAY-HERO

WE CONGRATULATE THE WINNERS OF THE

ARETE SCHOLARSHIP! Areté is the act of actualizing one’s highest and best sense of self, with a moral excellence of character, and for the greater good. It is an ancient Greek philosophy that Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates embraced. The concept encourages individuals to pursue their passions and realize their dreams, regardless of their circumstances or the adversities they are likely to face along the path to greatness. This year’s winners of our annual Areté Scholarship, presented in partnership with ADP, embody the meaning of Areté, and we are confident they will distinguish themselves as New Jerseyans who are on their way to realizing their dreams.

Daniel Lanza

Guesy Amponsah

Daniel hopes to work in a managerial role at Disney after attaining his MBA. Daniel credits his mother for being his greatest source of encouragement toward Areté, teaching him the importance of holding his head high and persevering no matter what challenges come his way.

Guesy believes Areté means having the courage to keep going when things are hard, the patience to keep improving even when progress feels slow, and the determination to serve others even when it is inconvenient. Whether mentoring younger students, leading donation drives, or pushing herself academically, Guesy strives to live Areté in every action.

Freehold Township High School

Irvington High School

Edward Lee

Juliana Vigilante

Edward hopes to divide his career between researching educational inequality and working with nonprofits and community groups to create programs based on those findings. Edward believes Areté means pursuing knowledge that serves others, achieved by combining his abilities in music, research, and leadership to address educational inequality in tangible, sustainable ways.

Juliana finds a strong connection between teaching swim lessons and Areté. She believes Areté is a dynamic, living commitment to adaptability. Through teaching, Juliana has learned that excellence is not a destination, but a fluid, consistent commitment to the growth and confidence of others.

Natasha Anderson

Titus Solomon

Natasha plans to use science to address global inequalities, working with philanthropic organizations in developing countries. Natasha believes Areté means observing an issue and taking action relentlessly, despite the obstacles that may arise.

Titus dreams of working with industry professionals to make an impact on the energy crisis. For Titus, Areté means pushing yourself to be better and using the knowledge you gain to improve your community.

Bergen County Academies

Hoboken High School

Pascack Hills High School, Montvale

Saint Joseph High School, New Brunswick

WE RECOGNIZE THE WINNERS OF THE

THE NJEA ESSAY CONTEST Congratulations to the winners of the Who Belongs in the Hall of Fame Annual Essay Contest, presented by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) in partnership with the NJHOF. The contest is open to all students from 3rd to 11th grade and is divided into three grade categories: elementary (grades 3-5), middle school (grades 6-8), and high school (grades 9-11).

Rishitha Nalluri, Grade 5 Ruby Kessler, Grade 8 James Madison Intermediate School in Edison, NJ

Frelinghuysen Middle School in Morristown, NJ

Ashly Gaibor, Grade 11

Rishitha’s essay highlighted the lasting impact of suffragist, women’s rights activist, and 2010 inductee Alice Paul, and explained why her legacy continues to inspire activists today.

Ruby’s essay explained how Larry Abrams, Founder and CEO of Book Smiles, is building a smart, compassionate way to support communities that lack access to books.

Ashley’s essay about the Assistant Director of Community Outreach at the NJ Community Development Corporation (NJCDC), Cristina Tone, described Tone’s dedication to inspiring engaged learners who become active agents of change.

Eastside High School in Paterson, NJ

BE INSPIRED BY STUDENT STORIES AT THE NJ HALL OF FAME AT AMERICAN DREAM The NJEA Essay Contest is in its 16th year, and the Areté Scholarship is in its 11th. Learn more about all the incredible winners from throughout the years by visiting the New Jersey Hall of Fame at American Dream, where these incredible students are featured in our Everyday Hero Exhibit!

ARE YOU OUR NEXT SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT? New Jersey students are invited to apply for the 2027 New Jersey Hall of Fame Areté Scholarship and NJEA Essay Contest beginning on October 1! Check out exciting updates about this year’s contests below.

ARETÉ SCHOLARSHIP

The New Jersey Hall of Fame is proud to announce the renewal of the Areté Scholarship Fund in partnership with ADP, ensuring support for outstanding New Jersey high school seniors graduating in 2027. Scholarship applications and all supporting documentation, including an academic transcript and two letters of recommendation, must be submitted between October 1, 2026, and February 28, 2027, to be considered. Areté Scholarship recipients will be notified in May 2027. Questions and confidential letters of recommendation should be sent to arete@njhalloffame.org.

NJEA ESSAY CONTEST Who belongs in the New Jersey Hall of Fame? NJ students in grades 3-11 are invited to shape the future of the NJHOF by recommending potential inductees—living or deceased.

Nominations can include famous people or even ordinary citizens who do extraordinary things in New Jersey. Students should research or interview (if possible) the person they wish to nominate and write an essay no longer than 500 words. Three categories for submission exist: Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, and Grades 9-11. The winner of each category will receive a $500 prize.

Apply Starting October 1 at:

Submit your essay online at

NJHOF.org/Arete

njhalloffame.org/essay-contest

For questions, please email Stephanie L. Natera-Smith at snatera@njea.org

NJHOF.org