Junior Achievement of New Jersey Announces 2024 New Jersey Business Hall of Fame & Trailblazer Honorees

October 7, 2024 – Edison, NJ: Junior Achievement of New Jersey -JANJ- is proud to announce the honorees for the 2024 New Jersey Business Hall of Fame -NJBHOF-, which will take place on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick, NJ. This 22nd annual event celebrates distinguished leaders who have significantly contributed to New Jersey's business landscape and beyond. The NJBHOF recognizes business leaders each year for their significant, positive impact on New Jersey. The Class of Laureates have consistently demonstrated business excellence; visionary, innovative leadership; community involvement; and high ethical standards throughout their professional lives. Additionally, the Trailblazer Award honors an individual who has pioneered significant advancements in their field, embodying innovation, and a commitment to shaping the future of business in New Jersey.

The 2024 New Jersey Business Hall of Fame will celebrate the following prominent leaders this November in an evening celebration that is open to the public.

2024 Class of Laureates:

Robert C. Cohen – President, Digital Robotics and Enabling Technologies, Stryker, & Chair, NJIT Board of Trustees
Alma DeMetropolis – Managing Director and NJ Market Manager, J.P. Morgan Private Bank
Kevin L. Haney – President & CEO, Colliers Engineering & Design
Caroline Litchfield – EVP & CFO, Merck

2024 Trailblazer Award Recipient:

Dr. Ali Houshmand – President, Rowan University

Meet the 2024 Laureates:

Robert C. Cohen

As President of Stryker’s Digital, Robotics, and Enabling Technologies division, Robert Cohen is at the forefront of medical innovation. With over 35 years in the medical device industry, Cohen has driven the development of breakthrough orthopedic and surgical technologies, including advanced joint replacement and spinal implants. A dedicated NJIT alumnus, Cohen chairs the university’s Board of Trustees and actively contributes to educational and alumni programs.

Alma DeMetropolis

As Managing Director and NJ Market Manager at J.P. Morgan Private Bank, Alma DeMetropolis advises high-net-worth individuals, families, and endowments on complex financial matters. With over 30 years in finance, she has held global roles and is a dedicated advocate for community engagement. A Cornell University alumna, she also serves on multiple nonprofit boards, supporting educational and environmental causes.

Kevin L. Haney, PE

Kevin Haney is the President and CEO of Colliers Engineering & Design, where he leads the firm’s strategic and operational efforts. With a strong background in civil engineering, Haney has helped guide the company’s growth and innovation in engineering services. He is a long-time youth advocate and is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of leaders in his field.

Caroline Litchfield

Caroline Litchfield is Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Merck, where she oversees the company’s global financial operations. With over 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Litchfield has led strategic financial transformations at Merck, including in emerging markets. She recently joined Verizon’s Board of Directors and continues to make a significant impact on the global business landscape. Throughout her career, Caroline has distinguished herself as a leader dedicated to inclusion and committed to advancing talent through mentorship, career development, and a learning culture that embraces diverse skills and experiences.

Meet the 2024 Trailblazer Award Recipient:

Dr. Ali Houshmand

Dr. Ali A. Houshmand became Rowan University’s seventh president in 2012 after serving for approximately six years as provost/senior vice president, CEO, and interim president. Under his leadership, Rowan has grown from a respected state institution to a rising Carnegie-classified national research university, with two medical schools and the upcoming launch of New Jersey’s first veterinary school. Enrollment has increased from 11,000 students in 2012 to 23,000 in 2021, making Rowan one of the fastest-growing research universities in the U.S. Houshmand’s entrepreneurial approach to education is centered on access, quality, affordability, and economic development.

These remarkable leaders will be honored on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick, NJ. Junior Achievement of New Jersey invites business and community leaders to join us in celebrating these individuals who inspire the next generation to achieve and lead.

Funds raised during the NJBHOF will support JANJ’s impactful programs that equip young people with the skills, knowledge, and inspiration to succeed in a rapidly changing economy. By investing in education and mentoring, JANJ empowers the next generation of leaders to dream big, innovate, and shape the future of business in New Jersey and beyond.

For more information on tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please visit https://secure.qgiv.com/for/2024njbusinesshalloffame/event/2024njbusinesshalloffame or email Wylie Quintero at wylie.quintero@ja.org.