The Heldrich Center is proud to announce its Distinguished Leadership Awards. Founded in 2016 and named in honor of the late John J. Heldrich, Johnson & Johnson executive and civic and community leader, the awards recognize and honor the accomplishments and achievements of individuals, businesses, community organizations, and philanthropy to the field of workforce development. The awards ceremony took place on April 23, 2026. Watch a video showcasing highlights from the ceremony:

The 2026 honorees are:

• Thomas Bracken, President and CEO, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce – Outstanding leadership of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce for more than two decades
• Patricia Campos-Medina, Ph.D., Executive Director, Worker Institute, School of Industrial and Labor Relations, Cornell University – Outstanding leadership supporting workers, unions, and students, and public service in New Jersey and the nation
• Aaron Fichtner, Ph.D., President, New Jersey Council of County Colleges – Outstanding leadership of the New Jersey Council of County Colleges, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, and Director of Research and Evaluation at the Heldrich Center
• Data Quality Campaign – Leadership in advancing the effective use of high-quality data to improve education, workforce, and economic opportunities
• New Jersey Chamber of Commerce – Exceptional commitment to supporting programs that prepare a well-trained and educated workforce
• New Jersey Council of County Colleges – In recognition of the county colleges’ central role in preparing students and adults for successful careers

“At a time when the workforce is undergoing rapid change, it is especially important to highlight leaders who are advancing innovative solutions and expanding access to education and training,” shared Carl Van Horn, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University and Director of the Heldrich Center. “This year’s honorees exemplify the kind of forward-thinking leadership that helps workers and employers succeed. Their leadership reflects the values that John J. Heldrich championed throughout his career.”