The Governor Thomas H. Kean Leadership Award Gala, hosted by The Garden State Initiative (GSI), will be held at Battello in Jersey City, offering stunning waterfront views and the New York City skyline on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. The evening will feature tributes to U.S. Senator Bradley from distinguished leaders and luminaries.
About The Kean Legacy Event
No one in New Jersey’s modern history has contributed more to elevate the stature of our state than our 48th Governor, the Honorable Thomas H. Kean who continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for those in public service. This Award, established by GSI, honors individuals who embody Governor Kean’s commitment to thoughtful, inclusive leadership and have made a significant impact in the areas of education, economic opportunity, national security, and/or environmental stewardship.
2026 Honoree U.S. Senator Bill Bradley
This year, we proudly recognize U.S. Senator Bill Bradley for his commitment to public service and advocacy for social issues. Raised in a small town on the banks of the Mississippi River, he was an Olympic gold medalist and national College Player of the Year, and spent 10 years as a Hall-of-Fame forward for the New York Knicks, winning two NBA titles in 1970 and 1973. He later served from 1979 to 1997 in the United States Senate, representing our home state of New Jersey. A graduate of Princeton University and Oxford, where he was a Rhodes Scholar, he has written seven books on basketball, politics, culture, and economics – all New York Times bestsellers. He currently hosts American Voices, a weekly show on SiriusXM radio that celebrates the goodness of the American people.
Proceeds Will Benefit the Governor’s School at Drew University And GSI
As a former teacher, educational policy was of special importance to Governor Kean. The Kean Administration established a series of Governor’s Schools to provide an enriched educational opportunity for gifted and talented high school students to broaden their appreciation and knowledge of science through exposure to a range of scientific topics and scientists. The Governor ’s School in the Sciences at Drew University, will receive a portion of the sponsorship funds raised, in honor of The Governor’s contributions as President of Drew University (1990-2005).
*Nominations for the 2026 Governor Thomas H. Kean Leadership Award are now closed. We are currently accepting nominations for the 2027 award.
**For questions, please contact Allison Sargent Events at info@allisonsargent.com or 973-783-5689.