The first Induction Ceremony for the New York City Hall of Fame was held on December 8, 2007. Worthy New Yorkers from all 12 categories were honored for their inspirational contributions to New York City. Prior to that historic first ceremony, years of work went into designing the New York City Hall of Fame’s plan, criteria, and nomination procedure. Honoree photos and bios are available at the carousel on our home page.

The Hall of Fame honors the remarkable character of individuals, or the good works of groups of individuals, who have contributed to the betterment of New York City. Inductees include both notable personalities and less recognized individuals whose work has instilled positive values and pride in the people of our great city and who serve as role models for our children.

Each year, 12 remarkable New Yorkers will be inducted into the Hall of Fame via nominations from the public that have been reviewed and subsequently selected by a panel consisting of Board of Trustee members and community leaders.

This web site will continue to be an ever-changing educational, interactive site used by people all around the globe to access information about the outstanding people of the greatest city in the world.

Through donations, grants and fundraising events, the organization will acquire a space for a museum to honor New Yorkers who have made outstanding contributions to our city. Staff and volunteers will offer lectures to public schools, businesses, civic, and fraternal organizations. The museum will become a center of pride for the City and will develop into a major tourist attraction that will benefit our economy.

Albert D. Stern, Founder and President of the Friends of the New York City Hall of Fame, was born in Brooklyn and has lived in New York City all his life. After his academic years, Mr. Stern pursued a career in entertainment and has performed for the New York City Parks Department, Queens Public Library, and the United Federation of Teachers. For more than 25 years, he was a General Manager of a retail chain as well as an entrepreneur.

Mr. Stern often wondered why there wasn't a New York City Hall of Fame. He could not understand why his beloved city did not have an organization to honor its most outstanding citizens. Mr. Stern decided to create this special place for the city he adores. A place that would honor the unique and giving individuals who have helped make New York the greatest city in the world. Therefore, he decided to devote the rest of his life to developing the non-profit organization the Friends of the New York City Hall of Fame.

Email Mr. Stern: astern@nychalloffame.org