By NAN Staff Writer
News Americas, CHERRY HILL, N.J., Sun. August 30, 2026: Jamaica’s Honorary Consul in Philadelphia, Christopher Chaplin, is set to receive the International Diplomat of the Year Award at a major celebration marking America’s 250th anniversary in New Jersey next month.
Chaplin will be honored during the America’s 250 Years of Independence Celebration Gala, hosted by International Stop the Violence Alliance, Inc. on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Cherry Hill. According to organizers, Chaplin is being recognized for his service in strengthening “international understanding, community connection, and cross-cultural collaboration.”
The recognition places the Jamaican representative among a distinguished group of public officials, law enforcement leaders, community advocates and sports figures who will be honored during the event. As Jamaica’s Honorary Consul in Philadelphia, Chaplin represents an important connection between Jamaica and its diaspora in the region, while helping foster ties between the Caribbean nation and communities in the United States.
America 250 Celebration
The gala is being staged as the United States observes its 250th anniversary and is expected to bring together international diplomats, elected officials, public-safety executives, educators, community leaders and professional sports figures. “America’s 250th anniversary calls us to honor more than our history. It calls us to recognize the people who carry the nation’s values forward every day,” said Dr. Stephné R. Coney, founder and CEO of International Stop the Violence Alliance. “This gala will bring together remarkable leaders whose lives demonstrate courage, achievement, resilience, and a deep commitment to the communities they serve.”
An international component will feature representatives from various countries presenting their national flags, highlighting the cultural diversity of the United States. The September 12 event also coincides with National Women in Law Enforcement Day.
Distinguished Honorees
Chaplin will be honored alongside several prominent American leaders.
Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, is scheduled to deliver the keynote address, while Acting Colonel Jeanne Hengemuhle, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police, will receive the Chief Louis “Lou” Cannon Medal.
U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver of New Jersey will receive the Rosa Parks Medal, while former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey will receive the National Reentry Leadership and Community Reintegration Award.
Former New Jersey Nets forward and NBA veteran Bobby Simmons will receive the Distinguished Professional Basketball Achievement Award.
Jacob Gillison, a former aide to the late Congressman John Lewis, will receive the Congressman John R. Lewis Medal, while Cynthia M.A. Butler-McIntyre, the 24th National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., will receive the Congresswoman Barbara C. Jordan Medal.
The evening will also recognize women in law enforcement, educators and community leaders for their contributions to public safety, mentorship and stronger communities. Doors open at 5 p.m., with the formal gala beginning at 6 p.m. at the DoubleTree Hotel in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
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