New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) President Teik C. Lim was honored with the 2025 Trailblazer Award at the New Jersey Business Hall of Fame, presented by Junior Achievement of New Jersey (JANJ). The event recognized leaders whose vision, innovation and community impact are shaping the state’s economic and educational landscape.

Junior Achievement of New Jersey is the statewide arm of the national Junior Achievement network, delivering experiential programs in financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness to tens of thousands of K–12 students each year. Through in-school programming, hands-on simulations and mentorship from corporate and community volunteers, JANJ connects students with career pathways and the skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce.

Its youth leadership model plays a central role at the New Jersey Business Hall of Fame, where JA Student Ambassadors guide the event. This year, Lim was introduced by JA alumnus Xavier Diaz, a 2022 NJIT graduate.

The Trailblazer Award, established in 2024, recognizes an individual whose leadership, innovation and forward-thinking vision have produced a meaningful, lasting impact within their field and across New Jersey. Lim is the second recipient of the honor. He was selected for his leadership at NJIT, his commitment to expanding equitable STEM pathways, and his contributions to innovation and economic development statewide.

In addition to the Trailblazer Award, JANJ recognized the 2025 Laureates: Monica C. Smith, founder and CEO of Marketsmith; Kim C. Hanemann, president and COO of PSE&G; and Gail Friedberg Rottenstrich, co-founder and president of ZAGO Manufacturing

The event also highlighted the role of JA’s volunteers and corporate supporters whose contributions make statewide programming possible.

“We are honored to recognize President Teik Lim as this year’s Trailblazer Award recipient. His innovative leadership and dedication to expanding opportunities for students and communities across New Jersey embody the values we celebrate at the New Jersey Business Hall of Fame,” said James Horne, Jr., president & CEO, Junior Achievement of New Jersey. “President Lim’s work at NJIT is shaping the future STEM workforce, directly supporting Junior Achievement’s mission to inspire and prepare young people for success. We congratulate him and all of our 2025 honorees.”