Welcome to Edition 202 of This Week at NJCU for the week of April 13, 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 April 20, 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.

TouchNet, the university's payment portal, will begin sending billing statements, account updates, and other important notifications from a new email address starting February 26, 2026:

📧 campuspayments@touchnet.com

To ensure you continue receiving messages, take the following steps:

Completing both steps will help ensure uninterrupted delivery of important account notifications.

Questions? Contact the Office of Student Accounts at bursar@njcu.edu.

April 6-15, 2026
Professional Studies Building, Computer Lab

The Financial Aid Office is launching its annual FAFSA Completion Workshop for the 2026-27 academic year.

Completing the 2026-27 FAFSA is essential to securing your financial aid from both federal and state sources. Our staff is ready to guide you and your parents through every step of the process.

As a continuing student, you are strongly encouraged to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible. Don't wait — complete your FAFSA now. The deadline to secure federal and state aid is April 15, 2026. Missing this deadline could cost you critical funding for your education.

If you have already completed the 2026-27 FAFSA, no further action is needed.

Workshop dates, times, and locations are listed below. To let us know you plan to attend, email financialaid@njcu.edu with the subject line "FAFSA Completion Event." In the body of the email, indicate which session you would like to attend and whether a parent will be joining you.

RSVPs are not required — walk-ins are always welcome. Please note that Lab A is located in the Professional Studies Building computer lab.

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 • 4-7 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union, Multipurpose Rooms

NJCU and Kean are joining forces this April for a Sneaker Bash! We need Gothic Knights and Cougars to help us build our campus shoe rack installation! We are calling on all students to donate sneakers in good condition to support fellow students who may be in need. Whether you're repping Jersey City or Union, your contribution directly impacts our campus communities while showcasing our shared sneaker culture.

The deadline to drop off donations is Tuesday, April 14, at the NJCU Gilligan Student Union Campus Life Office, located in Room 111. Drop-off times will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thank you for your generosity!

Submission Deadline: Monday, April 20, 2026

The Peter Drucker Challenge is an essay contest that aims to engage students and young professionals in addressing the opportunities and challenges of our time. The contest is designed to complement and enrich the multi-generational exchange of views and ideas at the Global Peter Drucker Forum, the 18th edition of which will take place on November 4-5, 2026 in Vienna, Austria.

Contact Dr. John Donnellan in the NJCU Business Management Department with any questions at jdonnellan@njcu.edu.

Housing applications for the Fall 2026–Spring 2027 are now open! Apply early through eRezLife, complete all sections, review your contract, and submit your application fee.

Requirements include a completed FAFSA form, full-time registration, immunization records, and proof of insurance! Apply today at https://njcu.erezlife.com/

2026-2027 FAFSA Workshops
Monday, April 13, 2026 • 9-11 a.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

On campus? On the move? We’ve got you!

Our Commuter Grab & Go series is back for Spring 2026! Swing by the GSUB lobby, grab free food and snacks, resources, and good vibes on the go. Commuters stick together and snack together!

April Theme: Movie Snack Pack
Monday, April 13, 2026 • 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Grab a to-go movie kit featuring popcorn, candy, and bottled water. It’s the perfect treat for commuters to enjoy between classes or on the ride home!

Monday, April 13, 2026
Session 1: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Session 2: 1-3 p.m.

Hepburn Hall, Room 112A (or 112D and walk to the back of the office)

The Office of University Communications and Marketing is providing free professional headshots for you to use on your Faculty & Staff Directory pages or LinkedIn profile. Just stop by to see our university photographer, Paul Gargiulo.

This event is open to faculty, staff, and students.

2026-2027 FAFSA Workshops
Monday, April 13, 2026 • 2-4 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

2026-2027 FAFSA Workshops
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 • 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

NJCU CRU: Bible Study  
Faculty and Staff: Every Tuesday at 1 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information

2026-2027 FAFSA Workshops
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 • 2-4 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Tuesday, April 14, 2026 • 3 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

The NJCU softball team hosts the Montclair State University Red Hawks in game one of a New Jersey Athletic Conference doubleheader. Admission is free for NJCU softball!

Tuesday, April 14, 2026 • 5 p.m. (Approx.)
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

Game two of the doubleheader will begin 30 minutes after the conclusion of game one.

Tuesday, April 14, 2026 • 5 p.m.
Virtual Event

📚✨ Take your teaching career to the next level! Join NJCU’s Multicultural Education Virtual Info Session to explore our graduate programs in Bilingual/Bicultural Education and English as a Second Language (ESL), including additional teacher certifications. 🎓💡 Hear from faculty about engaging coursework, career outcomes, and alumni successes—and receive an exclusive application fee waiver just for attending!

Dance Club Weekly Sessions
Tuesdays: Beginner Hip Hop: 6-7 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

Dance Club Weekly Sessions
Tuesdays: Street Jazz: 7-8 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

Intramural Events for Spring 2026: 5-on-5 Basketball
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 • 8:30-10 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

On campus? On the move? We’ve got you!

Our Commuter Grab & Go series is back for Spring 2026! Swing by the GSUB lobby, grab free food and snacks, resources, and good vibes on the go. Commuters stick together and snack together!

April Theme: Movie Snack Pack
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 • 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Grab a to-go movie kit featuring popcorn, candy, and bottled water. It’s the perfect treat for commuters to enjoy between classes or on the ride home!

2026-2027 FAFSA Workshops
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 • 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Intramural Events for Spring 2026: Water Basketball
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 • 1-4 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

2026-2027 FAFSA Workshops
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 • 4-6 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Sneaker Bash
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 • 4-7 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Intramural Events for Spring 2026: Relay Races
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 • 8:30-10:30 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

12th Annual NJCU Lavender Graduation
Graduates must RSVP by Thursday, April 16

See Coming Soon for more information.

Dance Club Weekly Sessions
Thursdays: Afrobeats/Afrostyle: 4-5 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

Intramural Events for Spring 2026: Knock Out 2
Thursday, April 16, 2026 • 8:30-10 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

Friday, April 17, 2026 • 12–1 p.m.
Virtual Event via Zoom

This webinar by Creative Financial Group, provides a high-level overview of five common financial topics: saving, investing, protecting, retiring, and estate planning. Topics addressed include compound interest, asset allocation, various insurance types, retirement income, and more. This event is a collaboration between the Kean and NJCU Offices of Human Resources and the Well-Being at Kean program.

Friday, April 17, 2026 • 3:30 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

NJCU and Montclair State have squared off in college baseball nearly every year since 1937. Join us for the final meeting as the Gothic Knights host the Red Hawks in game two of a New Jersey Athletic Conference home-and-home series. Admission is free for NJCU baseball!

Saturday, April 18, 2026 • 10 a.m.
Virtual Event

Join us for NJCU’s Virtual Info Session on our student-focused Educational Technology Leadership Ed.D.! 🎓💻 Meet faculty, explore courses, tuition, and financial aid, and see how our three-year, cohort-based program prepares you to lead in K-12, higher ed, nonprofits, and beyond. 🌟📚 Experience online learning plus a hands-on summer institute to launch your leadership journey!

Intertwined: 2026 NJCU BFA Thesis Exhibition • Group A Reception
Saturday, April 18, 2026 • 3-6 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

No events scheduled.

Peter Drucker Challenge Essay Contest
Submission Deadline: Monday, April 20, 2026

See Spotlight Events for more information

Monday, April 20, 2026 • 3 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

The NJCU softball team will host its final ever home non-conference doubleheader as the Gothic Knights look to storm past the Centenary University Cyclones. This has been a competitive all-time series, currently tied 16-16-1 in 33 previous meetings.

Monday, April 20, 2026 • 5 p.m. (Approx.)
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

Game two of the doubleheader will begin 30 minutes after the conclusion of game one.

NJCU Students, as part of an ongoing needs assessment, we invite you to participate in a brief survey and share your feedback on the mental health services and campus climate at NJCU.

The survey includes 33 questions in multiple-choice and rank-order formats, along with a few open-ended questions at the end where you may share additional feedback. The survey should take approximately 10–15 minutes to complete.

Your participation is entirely voluntary, and you may exit the survey at any time without consequence. All responses are anonymous and will be used solely to enhance student support services and inform educational publications related to student well-being at NJCU. Please note that no financial or other incentives are offered for participation.

Your feedback is valuable in helping us strengthen mental health support and create a more supportive campus environment. We sincerely appreciate your time and input.

Group A: April 18-28, 2026; Reception: Saturday, April 18, 2026 • 3-6 p.m.
Group B: May 2-11, 2026; Reception: Saturday, May 2, 2026 • 3-6 p.m.

Group A Artist Talk : Thursday, April 23, 2026 • 5:30-7 p.m.
Group B: Artist Talk: Monday, May 11, 2026 • 5:30-7 p.m.

Visual Arts Gallery • Visual Arts Building
100 Culver Avenue • Jersey City, N.J.

Artist Talks:
Thursday, April 23, 2026

Guest reviewer: Melissa MacAlpin
BFA Artists: Arizabeth Baez, Vianel Bonilla, Samantha Castro, Nicole Corvi, Ai'jhana Cutler, Rocco Francisco, Pedro Jimenez, Chris McVicar, and Ingrid Rivera

Monday, May 11, 2026

Guest Reviewer: Tris McCall

BFA Artists: Susana Barretto, Beshoy Erian, Corine Etienne, Caitlin T. Feeley, Fatima Flores, Aileen Herrera Ojeda, Cierrah Kelly, Taina Skye Luna, Maria Ramos, Ashley Robinson, Diana Saintilme, Abagail Serrano, Maryana Soto, and Mathew Zurita.

Get ready to be inspired! The NJCU Visual Arts Gallery is unveiling its highly anticipated annual Bachelor of Fine Arts exhibition, showcasing two incredible groups of emerging artists. Each opening reception will celebrate the creativity, innovation, and passion of NJCU’s graduating BFA students

Titled Intertwined: 2026 NJCU BFA Thesis Exhibition, this show brings a spotlight to connection and care—both for ourselves and for others. It features a wide array of art projects from 23 students, showcasing work in ceramics, graphic design, illustration, painting, and photography. The exhibition highlights the diverse voices of students as they explore their craft, skills, growth, history, and home.

March 16 through May 6

The Department of Athletics will offer the following Intramural activities during the Spring 2026 semester. Click on the links below to register for the activities.

All events will take place at the John J. Moore Athletics and Fitness Center unless otherwise noted.

For more information, contact Sergio Villamizar at 201-200-2170 or email svillamizar@njcu.edu.

This summer, give high-achieving students in grades 7 through 11 the opportunity to explore, discover, and innovate at the NJCU STEAM Academy, a highly competitive program designed for gifted and talented students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

Through hands-on activities, experiments, and engaging instruction, students will build critical thinking skills while exploring exciting STEAM concepts in a collaborative learning environment.

Students will engage in interactive learning experiences that spark curiosity, creativity, and innovation, all while preparing them for future academic success.

Space is limited due to the program’s competitive nature.

Learn more and apply today by visiting njcu.edu/steam, contacting us via email at steamacademy@njcu.edu, or by phone at 201-200-2307.

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.

Every Wednesday • 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union Room 327

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.

Take a creative pause in your week. This group uses art-based activities to reduce stress, reset your mind, and build healthy coping skills in a supportive, low-pressure space. No prior art experience is required.

Tuesdays and Thursdays
Vodra Hall Exercise Science Room

Wednesday, April 22, 2026 • 4–5 p.m.
Visual Arts Building Room B08

Illustrating the American Dream: Postwar Idealism and Cold War Anxiety. The last in a series of slide presentations on the history of American commercial illustration by art department professors Dennis Dittrich and Dennis Raverty will take place on Wednesday, April 22. It will also be a celebration of the retirement of illustration professor Dittrich after more than a quarter century of service to the university. Refreshments will be served.

In the years after 1945, the United States experienced an unprecedented prosperity that contrasted sharply with the period of the war and the Depression that preceded it. Worries about the spread of communism and nuclear annihilation caused anxiety and a widespread sense of dread. Yet advertising illustration of the era ignored these ominous undercurrents and represented instead a cheery, carefree world of things, an ideal that homogenized the diversity of life as actually lived into a representation of the American Dream.

Wednesday, April 22, 2026 • 5 p.m.
Virtual Event

💻✨ Ready to transform the future of learning with technology? Explore NJCU’s Educational Technology Graduate Programs, including EdTech (M.A.), STEM Certificate, and more! 🎓📚 Discover career outcomes, engaging coursework, and alumni success—plus, all attendees receive an exclusive application fee waiver!

Thursday, April 23, 2026 • 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
The Gothic Lounge (Hepburn Hall 202)

Graduates must RSVP by Thursday, April 16

NJCU will host its 12th Annual Lavender Graduation Celebration for all graduates who identify as LGBTQIA+. The in-person event welcomes graduates from any school/college in the University and any degree level. This event will honor the achievements and contributions of NJCU's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Gender Non-Conforming Students. If you are a graduating student who identifies as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, we warmly encourage you to register to participate and be recognized during this meaningful celebration.

This event will feature a keynote speaker, live DJ, and performances. A reception will follow the ceremony.

For any and all accessibility concerns or other questions, email dbachant@njcu.edu or ygarzona@njcu.edu.

Co-hosted by The Dean of Students, Pride Center, Counseling Center, Office of Specialized Services, and El Centro.

Saturday, April 25, 2026 • 9 a.m.
Campus Wide

Admitted Students Day season is upon us! Each year we have the privilege of welcoming and celebrating newly admitted students. Our final event under our NJCU name will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

For our incoming students, this is not your typical campus visit. You’ll get to experience college life in action, as current students and faculty showcase the opportunities that make them proud to be part of the NJCU Community. Explore the campus, see where you will take classes, live, study, eat, and build lifelong friendships. Plus, tap into a variety of campus resources to support your growth and success!

We encourage faculty, staff, and alumni to join us to warmly welcome our newest students. Register for our second annual School Spirit Tunnel to cheer on our newly admitted students on alongside our Gothic Knight Mascot and JC Arts Band.

Monday, April 27, 2026 • 4-7 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union Multipurpose Rooms A, B, and C

The 2026 Pa’Lante Graduation at NJCU is the 48th Annual ceremony hosted by the NJCU Council on Hispanic Affairs (CHA) to honor Hispanic‑Latino graduates of the Class of 2026.

Come be part of this special occasion as we celebrate the achievements, hard work, and bright futures of our graduates. We will honor the culture of NJCU’s Hispanic/LatinX graduates and recognize this year’s scholarship recipients.

This event is open to students, families, faculty, and the broader university community. For more information, email cha@njcu.edu, and follow CHA on Instagram at @NJCUCHA.

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 • 12-3 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union Lobby

Join us for an inspiring slam poetry experience celebrating empowerment, self-expression, and resilience.

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 • 4:30 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union Multipurpose Room B

Join the Black Alumni, Administrators, Faculty, Students & Staff Organization (BAAFSSO) on April 29 for our 40th Annual Salute to Graduates Program. This celebration honors graduates from the Summer 2025, January 2026, and eligible Spring and Summer 2026 Baccalaureate, Master’s, and Doctoral programs.

The program will feature a reception, the presentation of congratulatory certificates, and commemorative Kente Cloth Stoles for the graduates, as well as performances showcasing the incredible talent within our community.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with graduates alongside family, friends, and the university community.

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 • 6-8 p.m.
Dorrian’s Red Hand Restaurant & Bar; 555 Washington Blvd., Jersey City, N.J.

Tickets: $20

The NJCU Alumni Association warmly invites you to take a well-deserved mid-week break and reconnect with fellow graduates at our Spring Alumni Social and Networking Mixer.

Join us for an evening of refreshments, conversation, and connection with alumni across graduating classes and professional fields. Whether you're reconnecting with former classmates or meeting new faces, this gathering offers the perfect opportunity to strengthen your NJCU network.

We encourage you to reserve your spot early as space is limited. Kindly RSVP by Monday, April 27.

Thursday, April 30, 2026 • 5 p.m.
Virtual Event

Explore the future with NJCU’s STEM programs! 🔬💻⚙️ Our cutting-edge degrees prepare you for success in the fastest-growing industries. 🚀🎓 Join our Info Session to get your questions answered and take the next step toward your degree!

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:

TIAA will be available these dates and times for one-on-one sessions in Gilligan Student Union Rooms 216-217. 

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

Application Deadline: Friday, May 1, 2026 at 9 a.m.

The Boys to Leaders Foundation is proud to present the 2026 Leaders & Achievers Scholarship Program, honoring young men who lead, achieve, and uplift their communities.

Eligible students are invited to apply by completing the application form at

To apply, email the finished application and required documents to rsantiagodejesus@yahoo.com.

Tuesday, May 19, 2026 • 8:30 a.m.
Prudential Center • 25 Lafayette Street, Newark, NJ

At NJCU, Commencement provides our students an opportunity to celebrate their academic achievements with family, friends, faculty, alumni, and the entire University community. The ceremony will recognize School of Business, College of Professional Studies, Deborah Cannon Partridge Wolfe College of Education, and the William J. Maxwell College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) and CAS/Education dual-degree recipients.

We will have ONE ceremony where undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students will come together to celebrate this incredible milestone.

Doors Open: 7:30 a.m. Guests must be in their seats by 8:10 a.m.

Sunday, May 31, 2026 • 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Vaughn-Eames Parking Lot • 1000 Morris Avenue • Union, NJ 07083

Join Kean University President Repollet to celebrate cars, style, and unity at Kean University's second annual car show, 'Rep Your Ride.' Enjoy great vehicles, food, music, and more. Register to showcase your car. All types are welcome.

Car Show Entry Fee: $25 | Free admission for spectators. 

All proceeds will benefit the NJCU Foundation, which will support students on the Kean Jersey City campus following the merger between the two institutions in Summer 2026. In compliance with IRS regulations, gifts to this event are tax deductible to the extent that the payment exceeds the fair market value of goods and services received.

Deadline to register for a sponsorship is April 30, 2026.

Email presidentsevents@kean.edu to learn more about the event. For more information on sponsorships and registrations, please email foundation@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.