The 17th Annual New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) announced its induction ceremony will take place on Nov. 21 at The Rink at The Arena at American Dream in East Rutherford. Award-winning actor, comedian and filmmaker Danny DeVito will return as the host of NJHOF, which will celebrate its newest class of Jersey legends.
In addition to the previously announced Class of 2025 inductees, NJHOF will induct three trailblazers whose innovation and compassion are making an impact across New Jersey:
Unsung Hero
Dorothea Bongiovi is the founder and program director of JBJ Soul Kitchen, a “pay-it-forward” community restaurant model that serves in-need and paying customers to address issues of insecurity while connecting people to critical resources.
Educator of the Year
Drury Thorp is a passionate educator known for innovative, student-centered teaching that inspires curiosity, deep thinking and civic engagement. She creates meaningful, real-world learning experiences that empower students and strengthen communities.
Education, Research, Engineering and Science
The Honorable Shirley Ann Jackson, Ph.D., is president emerita of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, former chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, theoretical physicist at AT&T Bell Labs and recipient of the National Medal of Science.
“From world-renowned talents to community leaders, this year’s honorees reflect the full spectrum of what it means to be a hero,” said NJHOF Chairman Jon F. Hanson. “NJHOF exists to provide the next generation with role models who show that excellence can be achieved on the stage, in the classroom and in neighborhoods across our state.”
