Meet NJ’s Newest Hall Of Fame Members: 13 Inspiring Garden State Icons

Several of the Garden State’s brightest stars have made the cut as the newest members of the New Jersey Hall of Fame.

The hall announced its 2026 inductee class on Thursday. This year’s honorees include Grammy Award-winning musician SZA, former governor Christine Todd Whitman, and New York Giants football legend Lawrence Taylor.

Subscribe

Other inductees include:

Arts & Letters

• Big Joe Henry, “Livin’ Large and Lovin’ Life” New Jersey radio personality and philanthropist

Education, Research, Engineering & Science

• Geraldine R. Dodge, author, philanthropist, and benefactor of the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation (honored posthumously)
• Thomas M. Eastwick, Founder and President of Eastwick College and the HoHoKus School of Trade and Technical Sciences

Enterprise

• James E. Burke, former CEO of Johnson & Johnson (honored posthumously)
• Robert C. Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey’s largest health network
• Christopher J. Paladino, president of New Brunswick Development Corporation (DEVCO)

Performing Arts & Entertainment

• The Rascals, American rock band known for top-chart hits including “Groovin”

Public Service

• Donald Milford Payne Sr., New Jersey’s first African American elected to Congress (honored posthumously)

Sports

• Dr. John J. McMullen, former owner of the New Jersey Devils and Houston Astros (honored posthumously)

Unsung Hero

• Tom Weatherall, president & CEO of Make-A-Wish New Jersey

Fellow Garden State great Danny DeVito will be on hand to honor the hall’s newest members at the 18^th annual induction ceremony on Sept. 24 at the Dream Live Performing Arts Center at American Dream.

“The Class of 2026 showcases the diverse talent, resilience, and spirit of achievement that define the great state of New Jersey,” said Jon Hanson, the NJHOF’s chair.

“Each inductee – through their creativity, leadership and pursuit of excellence – has made impactful contributions that continue to inspire future generations,” Hanson said.

The honorees also got a round of applause from Gov. Mikie Sherrill.

“As our nation celebrates 250 years of independence, New Jersey is proud to honor a remarkable group of individuals whose achievements reflect the talent, innovation, and determination that define the Garden State,” Sherrill said.

“The New Jersey Hall of Fame's Class of 2026 has made a lasting impact in their fields and serves as an inspiration to future generations,” she added. “I congratulate this outstanding class of inductees and thank them for their contributions to New Jersey and beyond.”

Seeking some New Jersey lore to brighten your day? Catch up with some highlights from the 2025 hall of fame induction ceremony here.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com