The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) welcomed the Lieutenant Governor for the State of NJ Honorable Dr. Dale Caldwell at the 16th Annual Circle of Achievements Awards Gala, held February 19, 2026.

Before the event, John E. Harmon Sr., IOM, founder, president & CEO, AACCNJ said “The Lieutenant Governor’s presence is significant and appreciated and we look forward to working with the new administration to improve the social and economic standing of Black New Jerseyans.

The 2026 gala, themed “Forging Ahead,” is one of the premier Black History Month events in the state of NJ.

Chief Business Diversity Officer, City-Wide Mayor’s Office of M/WBEs, New York City Michael J. Garner, MBA, CCA, served as keynote speaker and engaged guests with his thoughtful take on what forging ahead means in 2026.

Circle of Achievement Honorees

• Stedman Graham, CEO of S. Graham and Associates, renowned management and marketing consulting firm, and author

• Stephanie and Floyd Rance, co-founders of the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival (MVAAFF)

• New York City Department of Education Chief Diversity Officer Karine Apollon

• Adenah Bayoh, entrepreneur, real estate developer, and one of the youngest IHOP franchisees in the U.S.

• Tanya Freeman, Esq., Tanya Freeman Law, LLC