New Jersey will be putting a spotlight on Italian culture this fall. The New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) is teaming up with the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission (NJIHC) to mark Italian Heritage Month, which runs all through October.
The month-long program will celebrate the impact Italian Americans have had on the state — in education, the arts, public service, and community life. Both groups are rolling out events, classroom resources, and social media campaigns meant to keep the stories of Italian Americans alive for the next generation.
One of the highlights is the NJIHC Annual Congress, taking place October 25, 2025, at Rutgers University’s Student Center. This year’s theme is Honoring Italian Contributions and Preserving Italian Culture. Expect conversations about history, identity, and the future of Italian heritage in New Jersey.
The Hall of Fame will also take part by spotlighting some of its Italian American inductees — household names who left their mark both locally and nationally.
Educator and activist Nicholas Ferroni is adding something new to the mix. He’s producing a series of short videos for social media, bringing lesser-known Italian American stories into classrooms, homes, and communities across the state.
“The New Jersey Hall of Fame exists to celebrate individuals who inspire us all to reach our highest potential,” said Ali Genova. “Italian Americans have made extraordinary contributions across every sector of society, and this campaign will bring their stories to life for people of all ages.”
Vincent Maione, Chairman of the NJIHC, said the effort keeps education front and center. “By partnering with the New Jersey Hall of Fame and Nicholas Ferroni, we’re able to reach even more students and families with programs that honor the legacy and contributions of Italian Americans in New Jersey.”
Both groups say the goal is simple: to celebrate and to teach. The NJHOF continues to honor New Jerseyans who have excelled in every field, while the NJIHC works year-round to promote Italian culture in schools and communities. Together, they’re inviting the public to take part this October.
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Tom is a lifelong New Jersey resident, Rutgers and FDU alumni and the publisher of The Digest.
