Pride, Legacy Shine at ECC’s Inaugural Wolverines Athletics Hall of Fame 

NEWARK, N.J. — Olympians, celebrated coaches and a record-breaking basketball team were among the inductees honored at the first-ever Essex County College Wolverines Athletics Hall of Fame, held May 9 at the Cleo Hill Physical Education Building, in the heart of the Newark campus. 

Essex County College President Augustine A. Boakye addressed a crowd of more than 100 guests — including college trustees, local dignitaries, Olympic gold medalists and student-athletes — highlighting the significance of the milestone event. 

“Tonight marks a proud milestone in the history of our athletics program,” Boakye said. “Our inductees have exemplified excellence in competition, unwavering commitment and a passion that has lifted Wolverines athletics that continues to inspire generations.” 

Board of Trustees member Johanna Wright echoed that message, highlighting the impact ECC athletes have made both locally and globally. 

“Though we are a junior college in name, our impact in the world of sports is anything but small thanks to the dedication and integrity of those we honor tonight,” Wright said. “Your legacy now holds a permanent place in the history of this college. We celebrate you, and we thank you.” 

ECC Athletics Director David Tomkins added, “I could not be more proud to recognize these elite individuals that have not only contributed to our athletic community, but more importantly, made an impact on Essex County College.” 

But the evening was about more than recognition — it was also a reflection on the political and social hurdles many honorees overcame throughout their careers. 

“There was a time that faces in this program would never get the praise or honor they deserve — just because they may have been perceived as born in the wrong family, in the wrong part of town or with the wrong skin color,” said Wayne Richardson, Essex County commissioner at-large. “But these incredible men and women are trailblazers. We are proud to call you our torch bearers.” 

The inaugural inductees into the Essex County College Wolverines Athletics Hall of Fame included Hon. Sharpe James, the college’s first director of athletics (1968–1986); Russell Rogers, ECC’s first national champion and former track and field coach (1971–1978); Cleo Hill Sr., former men’s basketball coach and athletics director (1984–1995); and the 1973–74 men’s basketball team, which set the national junior college scoring record. Also honored were Olympians Melanie Walker (2002–2004), who earned a gold medal in women’s track and field; Novlene Williams-Mills (2001–2002), who won silver and bronze medals; and Kerron Stewart, a decorated sprinter who competed at the highest levels of international competition. 

Olympic gold medalist Melanie Walker delivered a tearful in-person speech, reflecting on the experiences and growth that shaped her athletic career at Essex County College. 

“Being inducted into this hall of fame is not just a personal milestone but a celebration of a journey that began many miles away, in Jamaica, where I was born and raised. Jamaica gave me my roots — my first race. That is where I discovered the fire that would become my passion: athletics. I carried with me a dream that led me to the United States, to Essex County College,” Walker said. “At Essex County College, I found a second home. I found a team that became a second family. I also found a coach who forever changed my life — Coach Michael Smart. As I stand here, I am reminded that this achievement is not just mine alone. It belongs to Jamaica, where my journey began; Essex County College, where my dream took shape; and my family, who never stopped cheering me on.” 

In a special video message, three-time Olympic medalist Kerron Stewart spoke from afar, honoring the gravity of the event. 

“This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Being recognized like this means the world to me. I have poured so much of my time, my talent, and my gift into this journey,” Stewart said. “To be celebrated in such a lasting way is rewarding and truly humbling.” 

Capping the evening were final remarks from Dr. Keith Kirkland, dean of student affairs, and the unveiling of a commemorative wall that honored not only athletic excellence, but the enduring spirit of achievement that defines Essex County College athletics.