New jersey hall of fame announces 2023 inductees

Newark, NJ – The New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) is delighted to unveil its 15th class of esteemed inductees, celebrating the accomplishments of some of the most remarkable individuals hailing from the Garden State.

This year’s inductees comprise a diverse group, spanning contemporary luminaries and historical figures who have left an indelible mark on American history. Among the notable honorees is Charles Edison, former New Jersey Governor and son of the renowned inventor Thomas Edison. Also making the esteemed list are legendary Giants running back, Tiki Barber, the talented singer-songwriter Patti Scialfa, and the acclaimed filmmaker, David Chase, celebrated for his groundbreaking work on The Sopranos.

The NJHOF will pay tribute to these exceptional individuals at the highly anticipated 15th Annual New Jersey Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. After operating virtually in recent years, the Hall of Fame is excited to return to the grandeur of a live event on the red carpet at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, New Jersey. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 29th, 2023.

Governor Murphy expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The New Jersey greats included in this year’s Hall of Fame inductee list have made tremendous contributions to our state’s history. From sports legends to entertainment stars, business leaders to public servants and scholars, New Jersey has been graced by the presence of many influential people who have showcased what our state has to offer. This year’s class stands among the best of them.”

First Lady Tammy Murphy also shared her sentiments, remarking, “As always, this year’s New Jersey Hall of Fame inductees have not only achieved personal greatness in their respective fields but also serve as role models and mentors for future generations of leaders across our state. Our great state has once again produced an incredible group of inductees who will be forever enshrined in history come October. Congratulations and thank you!”

Jon F. Hanson, Chairman of the NJHOF, added his voice to the celebration, saying, “We are honored to celebrate the contributions and leadership of these outstanding New Jerseyans. This latest class will join the 14 others we have previously inducted, taking pride of place at our upcoming Entertainment and Learning Center at American Dream, and serving as heroes and role models for generations to come.”

The New Jersey Hall of Fame’s 15th class of inductees is set to leave a lasting legacy, embodying the spirit of excellence and inspiration that continues to shine brightly within the Garden State.

The New Jersey Hall of Fame Class of 2023 is:

Sports

Tiki Barber, Florham Park, former running back for the New York Giants in the National Football League (NFL) for ten seasons

Sue Wicks, New Brunswick, former basketball player for the New York Liberty in the Women’s National Basketball Association from 1997 to 2002

Performing Arts & Entertainment

David Chase**, Clifton/North Caldwell, filmmaker and creator of the Peabody Award-winning HBO drama series The Sopranos. Chase has written, produced, and directed critically acclaimed television shows. Chase recently co-wrote and produced The Sopranos prequel film, The Many Saints of Newark.

Tony Orlando, Union City, singer whose career spans over 60 years, best known for his work as part of Tony Orlando and Dawn

Patti Scialfa**, Deal, singer-songwriter, guitarist and member of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band since 1984. She has been married to Springsteen since 1991

Enterprise

Finn Wentworth, Mount Tabor, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and investor in major commercial real estate and sports ventures

Josh Weston, Montclair, former CEO of small business management services company ADP and notable philanthropist

Public Service

Steve Adubato, Sr.*, Newark, politician and teacher, founder of the North Ward Center

Charles Edison*, West Orange, 42^nd Governor of New Jersey from 1941 to 1944, businessman, inventor, and animal behaviorist who is the son of inventor Thomas Edison

George Shultz*, Princeton, economist, businessman, diplomat, statesman, and one of only two persons to have held four different Cabinet-level posts

Arts & Letters

George Segal*, South Brunswick Township, an American painter and sculptor associated with the pop art movement. He was presented with the United States National Medal of Arts in 1999

Dorothy Porter Wesley*, Montclair, librarian, bibliographer, and curator, and first African American to receive a library science degree from Columbia University

*Being honored posthumously.

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