The late chairman of the state Economic Development Authority, Alfred Koeppe, is among the 15 prominent New Jerseyans who will be inducted in the New Jersey Hall of Fame in May, it announced Tuesday.
Koeppe, who died in December, was one of two noteworthy businesspeople chosen for the hall in its “Enterprise” category, along with Arthur Imperatore Sr., founder of the NY Waterway ferry business.
“Induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame is the highest civilian honor that our state can bestow on someone,” John Keegan, chairman emeritus of the Hall’s Foundation Board, said in a prepared statement. “It’s a celebration of New Jersey and its greatest achievers, and a recognition of role models for our next generation. This is New Jersey’s version of the Academy Awards, so attendees can expect some surprise celebrity appearances.”
Other members of the Class of 2016 include:
- Carol Blazejowski, former president and general manager of the WNBA’s New York Liberty;
- Connie Chung, news anchor;
- Carol Higgins Clark, author;
- Connie Francis, singer, composer, actress, entertainer and publisher;
- Rosey Grier, NFL Pro Bowl player;
- Tommy James, pop-rock musician;
- Wyclef Jean, rapper, The Fugees;
- Philip Kearny, U.S. Army officer;
- Ray Liotta, actor;
- Carli Lloyd, professional soccer midfielder;
- Peace Pilgrim, nondenominational spiritual teacher and activist;
- Kelly Ripa, actress and TV personality;
- Chuck Wepner, heavyweight boxer.
An “Unsung Hero” will be announced in April.
In addition to his work with the EDA, Koeppe was best known for his time as a top executive with companies including Bell Atlantic and Public Service Electric & Gas. He also served in leadership roles with the Newark Alliance and the New Jersey Schools Development Authority.
Imperatore founded and serves as president of his ferry company, capping a nearly 70-year career that started when he founded a trucking company in 1947 and eventually saw him establish the transportation service between Weehawken and Manhattan.
The induction ceremony will be held May 7 at the Convention Hall in Asbury Park.
