Top 20

Wes Mathews CEO Choose New Jersey He holds one of the most significant economic development roles in the state — one to which the former State Department official brings the ideal resume. As New Jersey (and Gov....

John Harmon Founder, CEO and president African American Chamber of Commerce of N.J. He was the No. 1 selection on this last the past two years — and deservedly so. When so many in the state suddenly realized...

Ras Baraka Mayor Newark Newark’s favorite son is proving to be the city’s favorite (and most effective) mayor. Reducing crime, improving schools and helping to spur development (including affordable housing) are all important — and would be...

Ali Houshmand President Rowan University Houshmand, No. 1 on the recent ROI Influencers: Higher Education list, has lifted Rowan to extraordinary heights — and brought along so much of South Jersey on the journey. He’s not just...

Adenah Bayoh Founder and CEO Adenah Bayoh & Cos. There’s no better symbol or representative for entrepreneurial spirit and equitable hope in the state. A self-made millionaire, Bayoh is an immigrant who used her education and business...

Mo Butler Partner Mercury He’s a partner at one of the most influential public affairs firms in the state, represents and advises some of the state’s biggest politicians (including Booker and Baraka), biggest companies and biggest developers...

Eliana Pintor Marin; Teresa Ruiz D-Newark; D-Newark N.J. Assembly; N.J. Senate It’s easy to pair them together, as they are colleagues and friends. But it’s far more than that. They are role models — and two of...

Shané Harris Vice president of social responsibility and partnerships; President Prudential Financial; Prudential Foundation Her responsibilities include leading the company’s philanthropic strategy, overseeing the distribution of over $62 million in grants and charitable contributions, as well as...

George Helmy Chief of staff Governor’s Office Some feel he will soon leave the governor for a still-to-be-determined position. If he does, he should have his pick of posts. It’s hard to overstate Helmy’s influence on all...

Dennis Pullin CEO and president Virtua Among his many big wins of late is this: The recent announcement of the Virtua Health College of Medicine & Health Sciences of Rowan University, which will encompass the state’s only...