Speakers | 2026 Excellence in Community Media Awards

Confirmed speakers

The 2026 celebration will feature remarks from New Jersey's Governor, a keynote address and fireside chat with a state senator, and a video message from New Jersey's U.S. Senator.

Governor Mikie Sherrill official portrait

Gov. Mikie Sherrill

Governor of New Jersey

Keynote remarks

Mikie Sherrill was sworn in as New Jersey's 57th governor in January 2026. Before her election, she served three terms as a U.S. Representative for New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, where she was a leading voice for science-based policy and community investment. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, she served as a Navy helicopter pilot and later as a federal prosecutor in New Jersey. Gov. Sherrill will deliver remarks at the luncheon celebrating the role of community and ethnic media in New Jersey's democracy.

New Jersey State Senator Raj Mukherji official portrait

State Sen. Raj Mukherji

New Jersey State Senator, 32nd District

Keynote & fireside chat

Raj Mukherji represents New Jersey's 32nd legislative district, which includes parts of Hudson County including Jersey City and Bayonne. Elected to the State Senate in 2023, he previously served in the New Jersey General Assembly and on the Jersey City City Council. Sen. Mukherji will deliver the keynote address at the luncheon and join Center director Joe Amditis for a fireside chat on community media's role in New Jersey's diverse communities. He will also present one of the awards.

U.S. Sen. Andy Kim

United States Senator from New Jersey

Video message

Andy Kim has served as New Jersey's U.S. Senator since January 2025. Before his election to the Senate, he represented New Jersey's 3rd Congressional District for three terms. A Rhodes Scholar and foreign policy expert, Sen. Kim worked at the National Security Council under Presidents Obama and Trump before entering Congress. He has been a consistent advocate for press freedom and independent local journalism. Sen. Kim will share a video message honoring the 2026 award recipients.

Getting there

Walking from parking to the venue

Park in Lots 5, 6, or 7 (Metzger Garage area) and follow the path south along G Street to the Education Building. Forcina Garage (Lots 17 & 18) is closed.

Campus map showing walking route from Lots 5, 6, and 7 to the Education Building at The College of New Jersey

Download full map (PDF)

Join us on March 13, 2026

Celebrate with Gov. Sherrill, Sen. Mukherji, Sen. Kim, and New Jersey's outstanding community journalists at The College of New Jersey. Free for NJ News Commons members and open to the public.