Four Rowan University innovators named to INNOVATE100
Four Rowan University innovators named to INNOVATE100
May 15, 2026
Several members of the Rowan community were named to INNOVATE100, recognizing their contributions to New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem. Honorees were celebrated during a May 13 event at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center in New Brunswick. Each was recognized for leadership and contributions advancing ideas and initiatives across Rowan and the broader community.
The annual INNOVATE100 initiative highlights New Jersey’s innovation leaders and collaborations within companies and organizations. This year’s honorees from Rowan represent a range of roles driving innovation in research, entrepreneurship and immersive learning.
Neal Lemon, Ph.D., associate vice president for technology commercialization and innovation at Rowan University and director of the Cooper Innovation Center at Cooper University Health Care, was recognized for advancing research commercialization and strengthening innovation partnerships. In his roles, Lemon supports faculty, clinicians and industry partners in bringing new technologies to market, helping advance medical technology innovation across New Jersey.
Jessica Vatima, director of the Rowan Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (RCIE), earned recognition for leadership in advancing programs that support student innovation and startup development. Under her leadership, RCIE has grown into a nationally recognized hub, empowering students to launch ventures, secure funding and compete on a national stage. The center also connects students with mentors, industry partners and experiential learning opportunities.
George Lecakes Jr., Ph.D., director of immersive technology and learning and associate director of virtual reality at the Machine & Artificial Intelligence Virtual Reality Center at Rowan University, was recognized for advancing immersive education and virtual reality-enabled learning. Lecakes leads Rowan’s Dreamscape Learn program, integrating storytelling and interactive technologies into the classroom to enhance student engagement and real-world problem-solving.
Michael Connallon Jr., managing partner of Garden State Venture Partners and a Rowan alumnus, was honored for leadership in venture investment and innovation strategy. He supports entrepreneurs and high-growth companies across the region and contributes to Rowan’s innovation ecosystem through GSVP’s management of the Rowan Innovation Venture Fund.
Rowan’s representation among this year’s honorees reflects the University’s continued commitment to research, entrepreneurship and applied learning that drives impact across the region.
About INNOVATE100
INNOVATE100 is an annual initiative led by Innovation+ that recognizes leaders across New Jersey who are driving innovation and economic growth. Honorees represent sectors including technology, health care, academia, government and entrepreneurship, highlighting both individual achievement and collaboration across the state’s innovation ecosystem.