Popular radio host Big Joe Henry nominated for NJ Hall of Fame
Henry has donated his time and talent to more than 700 charitable appearances.
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If you've ever flipped through radio stations in New Jersey on weekends, chances are you've heard the larger-than-life voice of Big Joe Henry booming from the speakers at some point.
For nearly 30 years, "Big Joe" has hosted weekend radio shows on New Jersey 101.5 radio, along with multiple specials shows and events. He has covered various events, including the annual Christmas Eve show and the Belmar Lake Como St. Patrick's Day Parade broadcast, as well as the Seaside Heights Polar Bear Plunge and a Big Joe Jersey Talent Show.
His accomplishments, along with his numerous charitable appearances, have earned him a nomination for induction into the NJ Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
"Henry is equally well known for his philanthropy, donating his time and talent to more than 700 charitable appearances over his 29 years on the air for Jersey 101.5," Hall of Fame officials said in a statement.
When he first learned about the nomination, Henry thought it might be a prank.
"I mean, Edison, Einstein, Sinatra, Springsteen...Henry? But it is true and I just can't express how thrilled I am to even be mentioned in such extraordinary company," Henry said.
His charity work has given him the opportunity to share the stage with multiple New Jersey rock legends from Bruce Springsteen to Bon Jovi. Henry has also served as co-founder and executive director of The Rock and Roll Music Fund, and has been instrumental in raising more than $70,000,000 for charities in the Garden State including the NJ Special Olympics.
"There is no one who works harder to promote New Jersey and to help its people than Joe Henry," said Kevin Burke, major (ret.), NJ State Police and co-founder and chairman of the Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics of New Jersey.
In addition to his work on the air, Henry is the author of "Big Joe Henry's Big Jersey Cookbook." Proceeds from the book were used to help support the Foodbank of Monmouth and Ocean counties, now known as Fulfill.
Big Joe's talents have also spilled over to the big screen, where he appeared in the film "This is the Year," executive produced by Selena Gomez.
Voting for the NJ Hall of Fame Class of 2026 is still open. The Hall of Fame honors New Jerseyans who have made contributions to society.
