2025: Leaders & Legends Gala

JERSEY CITY, N.J. | New Jersey City University (NJCU) will honor three distinguished individuals and one visionary organization on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 6 p.m. when it presents the 2025 Leaders & Legends Gala – Havana Knights at il Villaggio, located at 651 Route 17 North in Carlstadt, New Jersey.

The Leaders & Legends Gala is the institution’s annual celebration of those who have made a lasting impact on society in the Jersey City and the greater Hudson County area. This year’s Cuban-inspired theme, Havana Knights, promises an unforgettable evening of music, culture, and philanthropy.

Presented by the NJCU Foundation, the university will honor recipients across four categories: Gil Medina of CBRE will receive the Distinction in Business Award, Adam San Miguel ’18 will be recognized with the Distinguished Graduate Award, Sara Peña of PSEG will receive the Women Leadership Award, and PNC Bank will be honored with the Community Impact in Education Award.

All proceeds from the gala will directly benefit the NJCU Foundation, advancing its mission to support the university and its students, including student scholarships. The website is https://www.njcu.edu/about/support-njcu/leaders-legends-gala

Peter Hernandez, the Chair of the NJCU Foundation Board of Directors, said: “The NJCU Foundation is thrilled to host the 2025 Leaders & Legends Gala – Havana Nights, a vibrant celebration of individuals and organizations truly shaping our community. We are honored to recognize PNC Bank, Gil Medina, Sara Peña, and Adam San Miguel, whose incredible contributions in education, business, and leadership perfectly embody the Foundation’s commitment to empowering potential and fostering impact.”

Lizette Delgado, Executive Director of the NJCU Foundation, noted: “The 2025 Leaders & Legends Gala – Havana Nights is our signature event, passionately dedicated to celebrating remarkable individuals and organizations. We are incredibly proud to honor PNC Bank, Gil Medina, Sara Peña, and Adam San Miguel, whose dedication and impact truly transform lives and inspire the essential support needed to champion the NJCU Foundation’s vital mission.”