Essex County College Celebrates Athletic Legends at Inaugural Hall of Fame
A night of pride and powerful reflection lit up Essex County College (ECC) on May 9, as the college hosted its inaugural Wolverines Athletics Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the Cleo Hill Physical Education Building in Newark.
The event honored local sports pioneers, Olympic medalists, and record-breaking teams who have made a lasting impact on ECC and the broader world of athletics.
Leading the list of inductees was the Honorable Sharpe James, ECC’s first director of athletics (1968–1986) and former mayor of Newark. James played a pivotal role in establishing the college’s athletic program and championing student-athletes during a time of significant social change.
“He wasn’t just building a program—he was building a legacy,” said ECC Athletics Director David Tomkins.
Joining James in the Hall of Fame were coaching legends Russell Rogers and Cleo Hill Sr., along with the 1973–74 men’s basketball team, which set a national junior college scoring record.
The evening also celebrated ECC’s Olympic greats:
- Melanie Walker, gold medalist (2008)
- Novlene Williams-Mills, silver and bronze medalist
- Kerron Stewart, silver and bronze medalist
Walker delivered an emotional speech, crediting ECC and Coach Michael Smart for changing the trajectory of her life. Stewart, appearing via video, called the recognition “truly humbling.”
“This marks a proud milestone,” said ECC President Dr. Augustine Boakye, commending the honorees for their excellence and influence.
More than just a ceremony, the evening was a tribute to the enduring spirit, resilience, and legacy of ECC’s athletic community.
