This month, the New Jersey Hall of Fame celebrates 2012 Inductee Eric LeGrand, a former American football defensive tackle that played college football at Rutgers University. LeGrand became paralyzed while making a tackle in October 2010 but has since regained movement in his shoulders and sensation throughout his body through his hard work and determination.

After reviewing the many applications, The New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) and the New Jersey Education Association proudly announced the recipients of the Pirst annual Areté Scholarship: Sal Campbell of Englewood Cliffs and Madeline Bowne of Cherry Hill. The pair was honored at the Hall of Fame Red Carpet Induction Ceremony on April 7, 2016, alongside this year’s distinguished inductees. Sal Campbell expressed his appreciation: “When I look at all the great people that are part of the New Jersey Hall of Fame and the many adversities that they have overcome, I am motivated and determined to work hard to achieve excellence in everything I do. Through hard work, courage, and determination, I can overcome any hardship or adversity and achieve excellence, give back to the community, and reach my highest sense of self.” Madeline Bowne said, “I am honored to have been selected as the female recipient of the New Jersey Hall of Fame Areté Scholarship. My memories of the induction ceremony on April 7th, 2015, will stay with me forever as I go forward in my career, serving as both inspiration and motivation.”

“Areté isn’t passive, it isn’t sitting down, and it isn’t conformity. Those who achieve Areté are active, standing up, and making their own path. Dreaming is easy. Doing is hard. While on stage on April 7th, standing where many of New Jersey’s Pinest dreamers and does have stood, I felt all the more determined to follow in their example.”