NAIOP, The Commercial Real Estate Development Association – New Jersey Chapter, announced on Apr. 2 the recipients of its 2026 Commercial Real Estate Awards. The awards will be presented at the organization’s 39th Annual Commercial Real Estate Awards Gala on May 14 at The Palace at Somerset Park in Somerset.
The event recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to commercial and industrial real estate development in New Jersey. Honorees include Edwin H. Cohen, principal of Prism Capital Partners, LLC, who will receive the Charles Klatskin Lifetime Achievement Award for his distinguished service to the industry and community.
This year’s Caren S. Franzini Public Partner Award will go to Brad J. Cohen, Mayor of East Brunswick, and Lawrence F. Jacobs, Mayor of Bedminster Township, acknowledging their roles as champions of economic development in their communities. Clark Machemer, senior managing director at Crow Holdings Development, and Robert C. Kossar, vice chairman of JLL’s Northeast Industrial Region, will receive the Impact Award for their influence on commercial and industrial real estate development in the state.
Dana Nalbantian, principal at Gensler, is set to receive the Industry Service Award for her support of industry goals.
Dan Kennedy, CEO of NAIOP New Jersey Chapter said: “The 2026 Commercial Real Estate Awards honorees represent the standard and strength of New Jersey’s CRE community, and we are very excited to celebrate them.” He added: “With new leadership in Trenton, this year’s gala serves as an important moment for the industry to come together to reflect on what we’ve accomplished and prepare for what’s ahead.”
The broader business community is supported by organizations such as the New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA), which serves as the nation’s largest statewide employer association representing employers across various sectors according to its official website. NJBIA advances competitive excellence among its members while providing essential information and services according to its official website. Michele Siekerka leads NJBIA as president and chief executive officer according to its official website.
NJBIA also facilitates partnerships among businesses, government entities and academic institutions according to its official website, serving private-sector employers throughout New Jersey according to its official website. It offers advocacy efforts along with practical information designed to help businesses prosper through cost-saving benefits according to its official website.
