East Rutherford, NJ (February 9, 2026) – The New Jersey Hall of Fame at American Dream hosted the official Whitney Houston Capstone Event on Saturday, honoring 40 years of the legendary performer’s extraordinary career and celebrating the enduring legacy of one of New Jersey’s most beloved cultural icons. Tickets to the special event were free, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor.

The day-long event brought together fans, community leaders, elected officials, and special guests to reflect on the music, artistry, and global impact of Whitney Houston, who was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2013. The program opened with special remarks from Pat Houston, executor of The Estate of Whitney E. Houston and the president of The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation. View photos from the event here.

“Forty years later, her voice still soars, her influence still echoes, and her legacy still teaches us what excellence truly looks and sounds like,” says Pat Houston. “It’s an honor to stand here and say thank you for the music, for the memories, and for a legacy that will never fade. And it is because of you that her legacy continues to live.”

Guests were immersed in a series of interactive and reflective experiences honoring Whitney Houston’s life and career, including a curated exhibit featuring career-defining moments and iconic costumes that helped shape her unmistakable image and influence.

Attendees also enjoyed a private screening of the documentary film, Whitney Houston in Focus, at the Jersey Pride Theater, offering an intimate look at her artistry, impact, and evolution as an artist. One of the most popular attractions was the Karaoke Stage, where guests were invited to perform “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” alongside exclusive performance footage from Whitney Houston: The Concert for a New South Africa (Durban), creating a powerful, shared celebration of her voice and legacy.

“We’re thrilled to be celebrating Whitney’s extraordinary legacy, as she continues to inspire us through her remarkable body of work,” said Bryan Blaney, General Manager and Executive Director of the New Jersey Hall of Fame at American Dream. “We hope that in honoring her life and artistry, we inspire museum guests to pursue their own dreams and recognize the power of their own voices. We are excited to have Whitney grace our Karaoke Stage for guests to enjoy as a part of our offerings and are grateful to the estate for loaning us multiple outfits for display through this Thursday and one on extended loan through the end of the year.”

Several elected officials and dignitaries were in attendance, underscoring Whitney Houston’s lasting significance not only as a global superstar but as a proud New Jersey native whose influence continues to inspire generations.

“This Saturday, the New Jersey Hall of Fame was honored to pay tribute to Whitney Houston — one of the greatest performers of all time, whose voice and legacy touched millions and continues to inspire generations of people from all walks of life,” said Steve Edwards, President of the New Jersey Hall of Fame. “Beyond her music, Whitney was deeply committed to helping others, giving her time and talent to uplift those in need and proving that true greatness is measured by service. It was a profound honor to celebrate her life and support her foundation’s mission to inspire young people, a purpose that closely mirrors our own.”

ABOUT THE NJHOF: Because everyone needs a hero, the New Jersey Hall of Fame (NJHOF) honors citizens who have made invaluable contributions to society, the State of New Jersey, and the world beyond. Since 2008, the NJHOF has hosted 17 ceremonies for more than 260 notable individuals and groups in recognition of their induction into the Hall of Fame. The NJHOF endeavors to present school children with significant and impactful role models to show that they can, and should, strive for excellence. The NJHOF is thankful for the support of its many sponsors, like Hackensack Meridian Health, without which none of our endeavors would be possible.

CONTACTS:
Aimee Brooks, PSC, aimee@princetonsc.com
Emaleigh Kaithern, PSC, emaleigh@princetonsc.com