The New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) is gearing up for its milestone 18th Annual Induction Ceremony, taking place on Sept. 24, 2026.
The star-studded homecoming celebration will be hosted by New Jersey legend and 2010 inductee Danny DeVito. Fittingly, the event will be held right next to the Hall’s new permanent home at the Dream Live Performing Arts Center inside the American Dream complex in East Rutherford.
The Class of 2026 features an extraordinary roster of legends, pioneers, and public servants who have shaped the culture and character of the Garden State and beyond:
- Arts & Letters: Big Joe Henry
- Education, Research, Engineering & Science: Geraldine R. Dodge* and Thomas M. Eastwick
- Enterprise: James Burke*, Robert Garrett, and Christopher Paladino
- Performing Arts & Entertainment: SZA, along with members of the legendary American rock band The Rascals (Edward Brigati Jr., David Brigati*, and Dino Danelli*)
- Public Service: Donald Milford Payne Sr.* and former New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman
- Sports: Lawrence “LT” Taylor and Dr. John J. McMullen*
- Unsung Hero: Tom Weatherall
- Educator of the Year: Marbel Tamayo
( * Honors individuals being recognized posthumously )
Event schedule & details
- Red Carpet: 4:00 PM ET (located at The New Jersey Hall of Fame, Court G, Level 3)
- Induction Ceremony: 7:00 PM ET (at the Dream Live Performing Arts Center)
NJHOF President Steve Edwards and organization leaders emphasize that the annual event serves to provide children and future generations with tangible role models who prove that excellence is always attainable. Media RSVPs for the Sept. 24 event close on Sept. 10, while public ticket details are rolling out for residents looking to join New Jersey’s biggest night.
