Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School will host the 2026 Hall of Fame induction ceremony in the Manya Ungar Auditorium on June 1 at 7 p.m. SPFHS is thrilled to induct five new members who have impacted the Scotch Plains-Fanwood community in areas such as business, journalism, community service and advocacy.  

All are invited to this wonderful ceremony. The host will be 2024 SPFHS Hall of Fame inductee and comedian Mike Marino. 

This year’s inductees are: 

• Charles (Charlie) Newman (Class of 1975): Paralyzed on the home field during an SPFHS football game in 1973, Charlie became an advocate for the disabled throughout his life, including working to ensure passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

• Hayward Gipson Jr. (Class of 1963): Former president and CEO of Playtex Apparel and an executive for Corning, Inc., Mr. Gipson also was the first African-American varsity letter winner at Princeton University. 

• Steven & Jason Parker (Class of 2002 and 2005): These brothers are co-founders and co-CEOs of K9 Resorts, and have turned their teenage dream of a luxury pet hotel into a franchise. 

 

• Jim Lambert (Class of 1984): One of the most decorated track and field journalists working today, Mr. Lambert has won many awards for his 37 years covering track, including the prestigious Jesse Abramson Award.  

SPFHS is also interested in building up our SPFHS Alumni Association so that graduates can connect with one another and collaborate in supporting the high school as it continues to grow and thrive. Giving back can happen in a number of ways, from taking part in school and alumni events to providing financial support for alumni and school initiatives. If you are interested in joining the Alumni Association, please fill out this form. 

If you have additional questions, please reach out to the high school principal, Dr. Warren Hynes, at whynes@spfk12.org or to Alumni Association President James Checchio at jameschecchio77@gmail.com.