2026 Governor's Conference on Housing and Economic Development

Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame Award

The 2026 Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame Award will recognize pioneers in the housing and economic development fields ranging from those who work to create, finance and develop affordable housing and economic growth opportunities to individuals who advocate, lead and educate the public on the issues. 

Visit the FAQs at the top of this page for Award FAQs and more information about the Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame Award

YOU CAN ONLY SUBMIT A NOMINATION WITHIN REGISTRATION. Go to the "Attendee & Exhibitor Registration HERE" button at the top of this page to register.

Nominations close within registration 5 p.m. Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

You will need to provide the below in order to submit a nomination:

• Name of the person, group or company
• Title, if applicable
• Company Name, if applicable
• Brief description as to why you'd like to nominate this person, group or company. (200 words max.)

Hall of Fame Inductees

2025

Robert F. Guarasci
•
Founder CEO
New Jersey Community
Development Corporation
(NJCDC)

2024

Diane Riley
•
Executive Director of
Supportive Housing Association of NJ
(Retired)

2023

Taiisa Kelly
•
CEO of Monarch Housing Associates

2022

Charles A. Richman   
•
Commissioner of
the Department of Community Affairs
(Retired)
•
Executive Director of
NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency
(Retired)

2019

Connie Mercer
•
Founder and CEO of Homefront

2018

Peter O’Connor
•
Former Executive Director of
Fair Share Housing Development

Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards

Submissions are now closed!

The 2026 Governor's Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards serve as a prestigious recognition program that celebrates outstanding achievements in the fields of housing and economic development in the state of New Jersey. These awards highlight individuals, organizations, and projects that embody the core missions of the Coordinating Agencies: New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, New Jersey Economic Development Authority, New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Financing Agency, and New Jersey Redevelopment Authority. 

The primary objective of these awards is to honor those who contribute to the advancement of housing and economic development opportunities for all residents of New Jersey. By recognizing exemplary projects and initiatives, the awards aim to inspire and encourage further efforts to improve the overall quality of life for all New Jerseyans. 

The awards also seek to acknowledge projects and individuals who make significant contributions to job creation and retention, as well as those who invest in the future of the state's economy.  

By recognizing innovative economic development efforts, the awards encourage the development of sustainable businesses and strategies that foster growth and prosperity. 

The 2026 Award Categories: 

• Leading Neighborhood Revitalization Partnership Award 
  • Recognizing a collaborative effort that effectively revitalizes and transforms neighborhoods, bringing about positive change and revitalization.
• Adaptive Reuse Transformation Award 
  • Honoring a project that creatively repurposes existing structures, preserving historical and architectural significance while contributing to economic growth and community revitalization.
• Innovative Economic Development Award 
  • Acknowledging a groundbreaking initiative that promotes economic prosperity, job creation, and sustainable development.
• Excellence in Housing Development Award 
  • Recognizing an exceptional project that provides high-quality, affordable housing options to meet the diverse needs of residents.
• Senator Ronald L. Rice Impact Award
  • Paying tribute to an individual who has made a significant impact on housing, economic development, or community improvement. Nominations for this award will only come from elected officials or persons in leadership positions at the State, County, or Municipal Levels. 
• Small Business of Distinction Award
  • Acknowledging the achievements of small businesses that have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and a positive impact on their communities, highlighting their vital role in driving economic growth and local development.