Welcome to Edition 189 of This Week at NJCU for the week of January 12, 2026. This once-weekly publication will inform the university community about all events happening each week over the next 8 days on campus + future events to add to your calendar.

To submit your event for the January 19, 2026 edition, please use the form at the bottom of this communication. All listed times are Eastern Standard Time (EST). All events are in-person unless otherwise noted as online, via Zoom, or hybrid.

Connect with us at communications@njcu.edu.

Beginning in mid-January, This Week at NJCU will expand into two editions to better serve our campus community. Due to the newsletter's continued growth and success, we are splitting content to make it easier for you to find the information you need.

The Monday edition will focus exclusively on upcoming events, giving you a comprehensive look at what's happening on campus each week. Our new midweek edition will feature university announcements, news, and important updates.

We appreciate your continued readership and hope this new format will make This Week at NJCU even more useful for staying connected to campus life. You will still use the same form to submit your announcements.

Orientation is your gateway to college success at NJCU. At New Student Orientation, you'll finalize your course schedule and plan your academic path forward while picking up your official Student ID. You'll discover the leadership and professional development opportunities that will help distinguish you throughout your college career, and explore the comprehensive campus resources designed to support your academic and personal growth. This is also your chance to build meaningful connections with your classmates—the peers who will be part of your NJCU story. Before you arrive on campus for the spring semester, we'll help you resolve any last-minute financial aid or billing questions so you can start the year with confidence and clarity. Your future starts here!

NEW EVENT

Monday, January 12 through Friday, January 16

Monday-Thursday, January 12-15: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (In Person) | 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (Virtual) Friday, January 16: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (In Person + Virtual)
In Person: Vodra Hall Room 101

Make sure your schedule is set for the Spring 2026 semester! The University Advisement Center is hosting Express Advisement sessions from January 12-16 for a last-minute review of your Spring schedule.

Whether you need to add a class, adjust your schedule, or have questions about your academic plan, stop by for quick, convenient advisement support.

For more information, contact the UAC at 201-200-3300 or email uac@njcu.edu

December through January

Researchers in the NJCU Department of Psychology are conducting an online study about how everyday environmental conditions (such as local weather) relate to daily habits, including physical activity, screen use, and general well-being.

Adults aged 18 or older are invited to participate in an anonymous online survey that takes approximately five minutes to complete. Participation is completely voluntary, and you may choose to opt-out at any time.

At the conclusion of the survey, you have the option to enter a raffle for a chance to win one of four $25 digital gift cards. To ensure your anonymity, raffle entry information is collected on a separate form and will not be linked to your survey responses in any way.

Questions about the study? Contact the Department of Psychology research team leader, Wei Zhang, Ph.D., at wzhang@njcu.edu.

This research study has been reviewed and approved by the New Jersey City University Institutional Review Board.

Application Deadline: Friday, January 16, 2026

The Black Alumni, Administrators, Faculty, Students & Staff Organization (BAAFSSO) was founded in 1975 and has since been committed to supporting, advocating for, elevating, and celebrating Black culture at NJCU. Eight (8) scholarships will be awarded to students who have demonstrated a commitment to persistence, success, and service. Recipients will be announced at the opening ceremony for Black History Month.

Eligibility:

Application Guidelines:

Video Format & Quality:

NEW ANNOUNCEMENT

Application Deadline: Sunday, January 25, 2026

The Council on Hispanic Affairs is pleased to announce the Hugo Morales Endowed Scholarship for the Spring 2026 semester. This scholarship supports Hispanic and Latinx students who demonstrate academic excellence, humility, and a commitment to service. Please forward this communication to any of your eligible students. 

Scholarship Awards 

To apply, you must: 

We encourage all eligible students to apply and take advantage of this opportunity. We look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of Hispanic and Latinx students in our community.

If you have any questions, please contact us at CHA@njcu.edu. 

UAC Spring 2026 Registration Drive
Monday, January 12 | 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information

UAC Spring 2026 Registration Drive
Tuesday, January 13 | 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information

UAC Spring 2026 Registration Drive
Wednesday, January 14 | 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information

The Gothic Knight women's basketball team has won 10 consecutive games and will host Rutgers-Camden in a midweek New Jersey Athletic Conference matchup. Checkout this matchup which may have playoff implications later this season.

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 • 7:30 p.m.
John J. Moore Athletics and Fitness Center

This is a series NJCU has owned forever. On January 14 the NJCU men's basketball team will host Rutgers-Camden in NJAC action. Here's the history: this will be the 83rd ever meeting between the teams. NJCU has dominated the series, 76-6. NJCU has won seven in a row, 38 of the last 40 meetings and 66 of the last 69 matchups. Come check out your Gothic Knights.

UAC Spring 2026 Registration Drive
Thursday, January 15 | 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information

UAC Spring 2026 Registration Drive
Friday, January 16 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information

New Student Orientation Spring 2026
Friday, January 16 | 12-4 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information

BAAFSSO Scholarship Application Deadline

See Spotlight Events for more information

Four members of the NJCU men's wrestling team are nationally ranked and the Gothic Knights are rolling over opponents. There's just a few more chances to catch the Gothic Knights grapple at home as they take on the Rowan College of Gloucester County.

No Events Scheduled

Classes are not in session today as NJCU commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., reflecting on his courageous legacy, commitment to social justice, and advocacy for enduring racial equality that remains an enduring inspiration.

NEW ANNOUNCEMENT

The field of business management is rapidly evolving, fueled by advancements in AI, data analytics, and remote collaboration. Professionals with strong management and organizational skills are in demand across industries, from real estate to human resources.

Click on any of the below to learn more about our program offerings and to Register Today!

Certified Supply Chain Professional + Freight Broker/Agent Training: Train to become a Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) by learning core supply chain management concepts and prepare for the CSCP exam.

Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt and Green Belt: Launch a lucrative and rewarding career by gaining in-demand process improvement skills and hands-on knowledge while preparing for the Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt and Green Belt certification exams.

Freight Broker/Agent Training: This online freight broker training course provides you with detailed information about the freight broker sector of the transportation industry and about the brokerage process from start to finish.

For more details or to enroll, contact us:

Adult and Continuing Education | 201-200-3089 | conted@njcu.edu

Multisite University Student Experience Survey

December through January

As the semester winds down, settle in with a great read and explore frosty landscapes, thrilling mysteries, heartwarming romances, and surprising journeys. The Guarini Library’s latest leisure reading collection offers a fresh escape for any winter day.

Visit the Library on the first floor to book your winter adventure with your Gothic ID — or view it online — and discover a story to enrich your season.

Multisite University Student Experience Survey

College/University Students ≥18 Needed for an Anonymous Online Survey on Student Life & Tech Usage

Faculty from the NJCU Psychology Department are seeking volunteers to complete an anonymous online survey about everyday online and offline behavior and technology use (including AI) among university students.

Your anonymous responses will help investigators understand student experiences and skills across campuses and will inform peer-reviewed research, campus support services, and responsible technology guidance.

If you are 18 or older, please use the survey link/QR code to read the consent information before starting this study. Please feel free to share this volunteer research opportunity with other students.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this study, contact the Principal Investigator Dr. Peri Yuksel at Pyuksel@njcu.edu or Co-Investigator Dr. Nic Zapparrata at NZapparrata@njcu.edu. You can also contact Dr. Meriem Bendaoud, chair of the NJCU Institutional Review Board, for any questions concerning your rights as a participant in this study at Mbendaoud@njcu.edu.

The Alumni Relations office is pleased to share that New Jersey City University has once again been awarded funding from the Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation to support scholarships for NJCU students. This scholarship is designed to ease financial burdens and recognize the unique challenges faced by students who balance academics with work and family responsibilities.

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Each year, over 25 students are selected to receive this scholarship. If you meet the eligibility requirements, the Alumni Relations team strongly encourages you to apply.

KNIGHTPASS is your ultra-affordable ticket to all of the VIP experiences, private receptions, biggest moments, best thrills, and breakthrough performances by tomorrow's elite actors and actresses, today's award winners, and more.

The NJCU Exercise Science Department is recruiting participants for a university-approved research study titled “Culturally Tailored Dietary Guidelines for Hispanic and Afro-Caribbean Populations.” The goal of this study is to better understand cultural food practices and create more inclusive and effective nutrition resources.

We’re looking to speak with individuals who identify as Hispanic or Afro-Caribbean and are interested in sharing their experiences and perspectives in a short focus group session (in-person or via Zoom).

If you or someone you know may be interested, sign up here:

For more information, please email Dr. Josh Williamson at jwilliamson3@njcu.edu.

This annual award is presented for the best memoir, personal essay, or creative nonfiction written by a student in a course at NJCU during the 2025-26 academic year.

Email submissions by May 20, 2026 to:

Submissions must be 2,000-3,000 words and must be submitted in a file that includes title and word count, but not the author’s name. A separate file should include the title of the submission, author name, course, and semester for which it was written, and contact information. No more than one submission per student.

About the Kathy Potter Memorial Writing Award

The Kathy Potter Memorial Writing Award was established in 2013 in memory of Kathleen M. Hackett Potter who died on January 6, 2013. Kathy graduated summa cum laude from NJCU with a bachelor’s degree in English with a concentration in Creative Writing and a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies. She received honors for her senior thesis in creative nonfiction, “Thruway.” In 2008, she became Editorial Assistant at "Transformations: The Journal of Inclusive Scholarship and Pedagogy," published by NJCU, and was a vital force in its success. In 2009, she was appointed Managing Editor. With other NJCU writers, Kathy started a 100-word group that became the catalyst for countless NJCU-based 100-word groups. With other alumni, she founded the writers’ group The ReCollective. Kathy’s family, friends, fellow writers, and the NJCU community remember her though this award that recognizes the literary excellence of a student at the university she so loved.

Join our weekly drop-in support group - no appointment needed, no commitment required. Every week, students gather to share real experiences, learn practical stress-management techniques, and discover you're not alone in navigating college challenges.

Whether you're dealing with academic pressure, relationship stress, or just feeling overwhelmed, this is your space to connect authentically with peers who understand. Drop in anytime during our weekly sessions. Stay for 20 minutes or the full hour - whatever works for your schedule and comfort level. Every voice is valued and every student belongs.

NJCU’s Community Music School is now accepting registrations for private, one-on-one music lessons for students of all ages. Whether you're a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, our experienced instructors offer personalized lessons across a wide range of instruments.

Start your musical journey with NJCU today!

For more details, or to enroll, contact us:

Adult and Continuing Education | 201-200-3089 | conted@njcu.edu

This fall, take a midweek pause to refresh your spirit! Join us every Tuesday at 1 p.m. in Vodra Hall Room 101 (Conference Room D). Online Option Available on Teams.

Come connect with colleagues, share fellowship, and grow in faith together. As a community, we’re here to support one another. If you have a Prayer Request, you’re invited to submit it using this form. All requests are kept entirely anonymous.

For more Information, contact Monica Almonor at malmonor@njcu.edu. Follow CRU on Instagram at @njcucru.

Select a therapist that aligns with your personal preferences, including gender, language, ethnicity, and area of expertise. Additionally, choose a time that suits your schedule, whether it be during the day, night, or weekend. You can conveniently connect with them through video, phone, chat, or message.

Experiencing a mental health crisis?

Help is available 24/7/365 by contacting: 866-646-1526.

Ask. Listen. Refer. is a 15–20 minute online suicide prevention training that equips faculty, staff, and students with the skills to recognize warning signs, identify those at risk, and refer them to help.

The training covers:

Participants will complete a pre- and post-test and receive a certificate. If you need proof of completion, please contact me—I can track participants.

This interactive program supports our ongoing commitment to mental health awareness and is a valuable resource for our division and campus.

NEW EVENT

No matter where you are in life—whether you’re just getting started or planning for retirement—a session with a financial consultant can help you create a plan for your goals. And, it’s at no additional cost as a part of your retirement plan. You’ll get answers to these questions and more:

Register your sessions at tiaa.org/schedulenow. For additional information, contact Nita Patel in the HR Department at npatel@njcu.edu.  

Save the date for the 9th Annual NJCU Pedagogy Day. This year's theme is "From Neurons to Narratives: Motivation, Anxiety & Teaching in the Brain-Aware Classroom."

Spend a vibrant day grounded in science and best current practices as we explore the human driving forces behind learning and forgetting, motivation and anxiety, and the deeper drives that make us human. Through expert and student panels and workshops, we will connect brain research to classroom realities, share practical strategies, and build a community of educators committed to compassionate, evidence-based teaching.

All faculty, staff, alumni, and students are warmly welcome.

If you have any questions or would like to contribute, please contact the event chair, Dr. Peri Yuksel, at pyuksel@njcu.edu

All events/announcements must be submitted no later than Wednesday at noon to be included in the weekly email newsletter that will be released on the following Monday.