16 Garden State Icons Honored at the New Jersey Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J., Sept. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Over 1,000 New Jerseyans gathered at the new Dream Live Performing Arts Center last night to celebrate the distinguished Class of 2026 at the 18th Annual New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) Induction Ceremony. The celebration of this year's inductees will be enhanced by year-round programming at the New Jersey Hall of Fame at American Dream, an immersive, interactive museum that honors the lasting impact of Garden State greats.

"Each year, our Induction Ceremony celebrates a new class of trailblazers who have helped cement New Jersey's legacy of excellence," said NJHOF Chairman Jon F. Hanson, "it's a consistent reminder of the extraordinary talent that grows right here in the Garden State, and the Class of 2026 is no exception."

Hosted by Danny DeVito (Class of 2010), the evening included a surprise proclamation presented on behalf of Governor Sherrill declaring November 17, 2026, as Danny DeVito Day "in recognition of a true New Jersey icon," and the induction of former New York Giants defensive linebacker Lawrence "LT" Taylor by Harry Carson (Class of 2018). Special performances from Tommy James (Class of 2016), Stevie Van Zandt (Class of 2017), Edward Brigati, Jr. (Class of 2026), and renowned saxophonist Mark Rivera put the talent, passion, and pride that define the Garden State on full display.

Hearing directly from the new Hall of Fame inductees was the highlight of the event.

"I am incredibly honored and humbled to be inducted with this extraordinary group of icons. It has been the privilege of a lifetime leading Hackensack Meridian Health and making New Jersey a healthier state to work and live in," said Robert C. Garrett.

Edward Brigati, Jr., shared his desire to inspire the next generation: "My highest desire is to inspire each and every individual to recognize their own gifts and abilities, to express their utmost intention, to communicate, cooperate, and collaborate."

SZA's speech honored her Garden State roots, "Thank you to all the Jerseyans that have inspired me. I'm just a culmination of those people. I love Jersey, I love community, and I promise to take that energy around the world wherever I go."

"While our Induction Ceremony marks a special 'homecoming' celebration for this year's class of inductees, this is just the beginning," emphasized NJHOF President Steve Edwards. "Through the generous support of our sponsors, their stories will join those of over 260 other New Jersey greats, from Einstein to Edison to Jon Bon Jovi, and inspire countless generations to come!"

Learn more about the year-round programming at the New Jersey Hall of Fame at American Dream at NJHOF.org.

ABOUT THE NJHOF: The New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) honors citizens who have made invaluable contributions to society, the State of New Jersey, and the world beyond. Since 2008, the NJHOF has hosted 18 ceremonies celebrating more than 280 notable individuals and groups. The NJHOF endeavors to present school children with significant and impactful role models to show that they can, and should, strive for excellence. The NJHOF is thankful for the support of its many sponsors, like Hackensack Meridian Health, without which none of our endeavors would be possible.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
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Aimee Brooks, (973) 204-1339
Jayne Pusateri, (516) 426-0551

SOURCE New Jersey Hall of Fame