EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – The Garden State’s biggest names gathered at American Dream on Friday night to celebrate the 17th Annual New Jersey Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, honoring a new class of legends who have shaped the state’s culture, history, and spirit.
Governor Phil Murphy joined the celebration, praising the honorees for their “talent, grit, and influence” and paying tribute to the late Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver, one of this year’s inductees.
The 2025 class features 17 distinguished figures from music, sports, media, business, and public service, including the Jonas Brothers, chef David Burke, Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, and former New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur.
The ceremony, held at The Rink @ The Arena at American Dream, was tentatively hosted by actor Danny DeVito and marked nearly one year since the Hall of Fame opened its permanent home at the massive retail and entertainment complex.
Key Points
- The New Jersey Hall of Fame inducted 17 new members at its annual ceremony Friday at American Dream.
- Inductees include the Jonas Brothers, Martin Brodeur, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, and the late Sheila Oliver.
- The Hall of Fame celebrates New Jersey’s talent across entertainment, sports, public service, and business.
A celebration of New Jersey excellence
Jon F. Hanson, chairman of the New Jersey Hall of Fame, said this year’s class “reflects the very best of New Jersey’s talent, grit, and influence,” highlighting the inductees’ lasting impact across industries.
“These inductees have made an extraordinary impact in their respective fields and continue to inspire generations,” Hanson said.
Steve Edwards, president of the Hall of Fame, echoed that sentiment, calling the 2025 honorees a testament to New Jersey’s resilience and diversity. “They showcase the incredible range of talent that has come out of New Jersey, from global icons in entertainment to pioneers in sports, public service, and enterprise,” Edwards said.
The event featured tributes to public service leaders, entertainers, and athletes whose contributions have reached far beyond state lines, solidifying their place in New Jersey’s storied legacy.
Honorees from across fields
This year’s inductees include CNN anchor Dana Bash, music legends The Isley Brothers, Bon Jovi keyboardist David Bryan, and Batman film producer Michael E. Uslan.
Public Service honorees include the late Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, William Edward Simon, and David T. Wilentz, all recognized posthumously for their historic roles in state and national leadership.
In sports, Olympic hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone joined Devils legend Martin Brodeur and NBA coach Hubie Brown as new members of the Hall.
Continuing the legacy at American Dream
The Hall of Fame’s permanent home at American Dream now features year-round exhibits honoring inductees past and present, offering visitors an interactive experience celebrating New Jersey’s most influential figures.
Chosen from 60 nominees through a public vote, the 2025 class underscores the Hall’s mission to recognize those who embody the state’s enduring motto: “Everyone needs a hero.”
Governor Murphy called the night “a homecoming for the best of New Jersey,” adding that the inductees “remind us of who we are and what this state stands for — hard work, heart, and hope.”
