The Meadowlands Chamber will celebrate five leaders across business, development, advocacy and community impact at its annual Legacy Awards, recognizing individuals whose work has shaped the region through vision, generosity and long-term commitment.
Chamber CEO Jim Kirkos said the night event, to be held Oct. 15 at the World of Blue hotel in East Rutherford, is designed to spotlight “people of great character” whose leadership extends beyond their organizations.
“Each year I have the honor of sharing the stage with incredible people who have created legacies in so many ways,” he said. “People with leadership, vision and amazing generosity — people who care about their teams and their communities. That’s why it gives us such great pleasure to pay tribute to people of great character.”
This year’s honorees:
Kate Bartolomeo, president, Patrick Bartolomeo, CEO, BFI Furniture: The brother-sister team has expanded BFI into one of New Jersey’s leading commercial furniture providers, known for major workplace installations and deep philanthropic involvement. Under their leadership, BFI supports a wide range of charitable organizations and community initiatives throughout the state.
Eugene Diaz, principal, Prism Capital Partners: Diaz has helped transform the ON3 campus in Clifton into one of New Jersey’s premier mixed-use innovation hubs. Working alongside his partner and team, Diaz has led redevelopment of the former Roche site into a thriving center for life sciences, education, healthcare and corporate tenants — a project widely cited for its vision and persistence.
Jerry Keenan, president, New Jersey Alliance for Action Keenan: He is a longtime advocate for infrastructure investment and economic development, leading one of the state’s most influential business and construction organizations. Under his leadership, the Alliance for Action has expanded its statewide programming, strengthened its policy voice and elevated collaboration across transportation, utilities and development sectors.
Rafael Toro, director of public relations, Goya Foods: Toro has spent his entire career with Goya, helping shape the company’s brand, community partnerships and national philanthropic footprint. He is currently leading Goya’s 90th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the company’s growth and its longstanding support for food-security programs and cultural organizations.
