The upcoming 2025 Leaders & Legends Gala – Havana Knights at New Jersey City University (NJCU) promises a night of celebration, community, and impact. It’s set for September 26 at Il Villaggio in Carlstadt.
The NJCU Foundation presents the gala to honor local leaders and organizations who’ve shaped Jersey City and Hudson County. This year’s event highlights a diverse group from business, education, and community service—just another sign of NJCU’s close ties to the area and its push to empower future generations.
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A Night to Celebrate Impact and Leadership
The Leaders & Legends Gala is now a staple in NJCU’s annual calendar. It’s all about recognizing people who make the region stronger, both socially and economically.
The 2025 event leans into a Havana-inspired theme, promising plenty of energy and heartfelt recognition. Expect lively colors, music, and a sense of fun that goes beyond the typical awards night.
Distinguished Honorees
This year’s honorees come from different sectors, showing NJCU’s focus on leadership that blends business, education, and community spirit. Each one brings something unique to the table.
- Gil Medina – Executive Vice President at CBRE and former New Jersey Secretary of Commerce. He’ll receive the Distinction in Business Award for his dedication to boosting New Jersey’s economy.
- Adam San Miguel – An NJCU Class of 2018 alum and founder of Cortaditos coffee shops. He’s taking home the Distinguished Graduate Award thanks to his leadership with the Cuban American Alliance for Leadership & Education and his passion for mentorship.
- Sara Peña – Director of External Affairs at PSEG and founder of the Boys to Leaders Foundation. She’ll be recognized with the Women Leadership Award. Peña has also landed on ROI-NJ’s Most Influential People of Color lists in 2023 and 2024.
- PNC Bank – The bank will receive the Community Impact in Education Award for its long-standing support of education and community growth projects.
The gala isn’t just about awards. It’s a key fundraiser for the NJCU Foundation, with all proceeds going to scholarships and programs that help students get the resources and guidance they need.
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It’s a big piece of NJCU’s mission to prepare graduates for leadership roles—both close to home and farther afield.
Why This Matters for Jersey City
Events like the Leaders & Legends Gala do more than raise money. They spark connections between established leaders and the next wave of changemakers.
Jersey City really thrives when its schools, businesses, and non-profits work together. That teamwork keeps opportunities open for the city’s diverse communities.
Connecting the Celebration to Jersey City Life
If you’re coming in from out of town, the gala’s a great excuse to explore Jersey City. There’s no shortage of Jersey City hotels and boutique stays for anyone figuring out where to stay in Jersey City.
Whether you’re here for the event or just curious about the city’s energy, checking out some things to do in Jersey City is worth your time. It’s one way to get a feel for what makes the place tick.
Exploring the City Around the Gala
Every one of Jersey City’s city districts has its own vibe. Maybe you’ll wander through the artsy Powerhouse Arts District or catch sweeping views from the Waterfront.
Or maybe you’ll grab a bite in the culturally rich Journal Square. Wondering about getting to Jersey City? PATH train, ferry, bus, or car—they all work, so it’s easy for gala guests to mix celebration with a taste of local life.
Final Thoughts
The NJCU Leaders & Legends Gala – Havana Knights isn’t just a glamorous event. It shows the strength of Jersey City’s community and its wild ability to inspire.
By celebrating leaders who achieve personal success and genuinely invest in the well-being of others, NJCU keeps proving it’s a cornerstone in Hudson County. Maybe you’ll go to honor the awardees, or maybe you’re there to network and catch the vibe of the night.
Either way, the gala really shows how celebration and service can mix together for the good of the community.
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Here is the source article for this story: New Jersey City University will honor 3 individuals, 1 organization at gala
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