The annual tribute is our way of honoring, celebrating and acknowledging the accomplishments and contributions of Irish Americans from around the state.

The list this year with its newcomers and veterans alike demonstrates a commitment of those on it to their Irish American heritage and, just as importantly, to their communities.

Last year’s traditional “Tip of the Top Hat” was a salute to the son of Irish immigrants, the late United States Supreme Court Justice William J. Brennan Jr. Newark born Justice Brennan was a strong advocate of individual freedoms and the principles of equality and justice. He was one of America’s most influential jurists.

A statue in his honor, created by Jay Warren of Oregon, and erected on June 3, 2010, was the first one to be dedicated at the Essex County Government Complex since Gutzon Borglum’s “Seated Lincoln” was unveiled in 1911. We invite you, when in town, to come have a look.

This year we offer a timely salute, a ‘Tip of the Top Hat’ and the best of Irish luck to the Hon. Mikie Sherrill, newly elected as the 57th Governor of New Jersey.

Governor Sherrill shares the legacy of past and current New Jersey Irish American leaders who have occupied the Office of Governor. Those who come to mind, some of long ago, some of recent past: William Paterson, Richard J. Hughes, William T. Cahill, Brendan T. Byrne, Jim McGreevey, Richard J. Codey, Christopher J. Christie (son of Irish father Wilbur James “Bill” Christie) and Philip D. Murphy.

Download Insider NJ’s 2026 Irish American Leaders Publication or view it below: