Award-winning Actor, Comedian, and Filmmaker Danny DeVito – known for his work in ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ or ‘Taxi,’ depending on your generation, will return as host of the 17th Annual New Jersey Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, it was announced today.
DeVito, who lives in Asbury Park, will host the event Nov. 21 at The Rink @ The Arena at American Dream in East Rutherford.
The NJHOF will celebrate its newest class of Jersey legends just steps from its permanent home at American Dream. In addition to the previously announced honorees, the class will recognize three new honorees, whose innovation and compassion are making an impact across New Jersey:
Unsung Hero: Dorothea Bongiovi is the founder and program director of JBJ Soul Kitchen, a “pay-it-forward” community restaurant model that serves in-need and paying customers to address issues of insecurity while connecting people to critical resources.
Educator of the Year: Drury Thorp is a passionate educator known for innovative, student-centered teaching that inspires curiosity, deep thinking, and civic engagement. She creates meaningful, real-world learning experiences that empower students and strengthen communities.
Education, Research, Engineering, and Science: The Honorable Shirley Ann Jackson, Ph.D., is president emerita of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, former chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, theoretical physicist at AT&T Bell Labs, and recipient of the National Medal of Science.
“From world-renowned talents to community leaders, this year’s honorees reflect the full spectrum of what it means to be a hero,” NJHOF Chairman Jon Hanson said. “NJHOF exists to provide the next generation with role models who show that excellence can be achieved on the stage, in the classroom, and in neighborhoods across our state.”
The New Jersey Hall of Fame honors citizens who have made invaluable contributions to society, the state of New Jersey, and the world beyond. Since 2008, the NJHOF has hosted 16 ceremonies for more than 240 notable individuals and groups in recognition of their induction into the Hall of Fame.
