New Jersey Hall of Fame Announces 2023 Inductees

Danny Devito hosts 15th Anniversary NJHOF Induction Ceremony at NJPAC in Newark, NJ, and Unsung Heroes are honored alongside 2023 Inductees David Chase, Tiki Barber, Patti Scialfa and others

NEWARK, N.J., October 23, 2023 – The New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) announced that award-winning actor, comedian and filmmaker Danny DeVito was the master of ceremonies for the 15th iteration of the induction ceremony honoring New Jersey legends. Additionally, Anna Diaz-White and Michael Fux were honored as this year’s Unsung Heroes, an award which recognizes game-changers in the state of New Jersey that are not typically recognized for their work in bettering their communities.

“The Unsung Heroes award offers us the unique opportunity to show our gratitude and put a spotlight on the people who often work behind the scenes to make invaluable contributions to their community,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “It brings me great joy to join Gloria Gaynor to bestow this honor on Anna and Michael for their tireless work and dedication to such important causes.”

Anna Diaz-White serves as the Executive Director of 180 Turning Lives Around, the Monmouth County non-profit providing survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their families with free and confidential programs and resources to process and heal from their experiences. She has been at the helm of this effort to offer hope and support to victims for 35 years, and under Diaz-White’s leadership the organization has developed a state-of-the art, comprehensive approach to support survivors and their children.

“Anna’s work gives survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their families the support they need to heal from such traumatic experiences. Having known her for over two decades and personally collaborated on numerous projects, I can attest to the quality of work she provides and the dedication she has for survivors in need,” continued the First Lady. “She has changed countless lives over her 35 years of service to this community, and, as a survivor myself, I am grateful for her compassion and unwavering dedication to this work.”

Michael Fux migrated to Newark, NJ, from Cuba in 1958 with his mother and his brother at just 15 years old and didn’t speak a word of English. His entrepreneurial passion began soon thereafter when he started his first business at the age of 18, selling used tires and batteries at a single-car garage in Newark. Through hard work and ambition, Fux founded very successful companies in the home furnishings industry and is now CEO of Imaginarium and Co. He never forgot where he came from and is passionate about providing support to law enforcement and children’s charities throughout our State of New Jersey.

“Michael’s achievements are a testament to the American Dream,” said First Lady Murphy. “In New Jersey, we pride ourselves on being one of the most diverse states in the nation, where people from around the world can settle down to work and raise a family. And thanks to Michael’s charitable contributions to law enforcement and children’s organizations, he is now supporting our efforts on that front.”

This year’s induction ceremony was held at the esteemed New Jersey Performing Arts Center and celebrated the achievements of the aforementioned Unsung Heroes alongside the newest class of inductees, which includes a wide array of notables from various walks of life. The New Jersey Hall of Fame class of 2023 includes Tiki Barber, Sue Wicks, David Chase, Tony Orlando, Patti Scialfa, Finn Wentworth, Josh Weston, Steve Adubato, Sr., Charles Edison, George Shultz, George Segal, and Dorothy Porter Wesley. The October 29th event also featured notable presenters and surprise musical performances.

ABOUT THE NJHOF: Because everyone needs a hero, 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 14 ceremonies for more than 200 notable individuals and groups in recognition of their induction into the Hall of Fame. 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.

Did you know that starting in the spring of 2024, Jersey greatness will be on display at the New Jersey Hall of Fame Entertainment & Learning Center at American Dream? View preview below: