Welcome to Edition 203 of This Week at NJCU for the week of April 20, 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 27, 2026 edition, please use the form at the bottom of this communication. All listed times are Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). All events are in-person unless otherwise noted as online, via Zoom, or hybrid.

Connect with us at communications@njcu.edu.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Thursday, April 23, 2026 • 12:30-2 p.m.
Science Building 150

The William J. Maxwell College of Arts & Sciences invites all NJCU students to join us for our final Pizza with the Deans event of the semester! Enjoy free pizza while connecting with CAS leadership in an informal, relaxed setting.

This is a great opportunity to ask questions, share your thoughts, explore academic opportunities, and meet fellow students. Whether you're seeking guidance or just looking to unwind with good conversation (and pizza), we’d love to see you there!

Thursday, April 23, 2026 • 5 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union Multipurpose Room

The Office of Military and Veteran Services invites you to The Last Formation, a final celebration honoring our military-affiliated student community and recognizing our newest graduates. This event celebrates the service, dedication, and achievements of our student veterans, active-duty service members, and military-affiliated students.

Join us on Thursday, April 23 at 5 p.m. in the GSUB for this meaningful ceremony, followed by dinner.

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

See Spotlight Events for more information

Monday, April 20, 2026 • 2–4 p.m.
Virtual via Zoom

The University Senate will hold a regular meeting on Monday, April 20.

Monday Mood Reset: Art Based Coping Group
Every Monday Starting March 16 through May 4 • 2:30 p.m.

See Continuing 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.

Monday, April 20, 2026 • 6-9 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union 129

You’re invited to a special evening of worship, fellowship, and cultural celebration centered on the theme of Faithfulness, featuring amazing worship, an encouraging message, community, and Korean food to follow. Bring a friend - All are welcome!

📧 Questions: njcucru1@gmail.com

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

See Continuing Events for more information

Tuesday, April 21, 2026 • 3 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

The NJCU softball team will The College of New Jersey in its final midweek New Jersey Athletic Conference softball doubleheader. Gothic Knights vs. Lions. Admission is free.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026 • 3:30 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

The NJCU baseball team will host the United States Merchant Marine Academy Mariners in Jersey City for the first time since 2007, during a non-conference single game. Admission is free.

Tuesday, April 21, 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 21, 2026 • 5:45-7 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union 129

Join this event for an intimate and thought-provoking memoir reading and conversation exploring the art of writing the self in memoir. The event will feature readings by four emerging voices, followed by a discussion on the craft, vulnerability, and creativity that memoir demands.

Presenters: Alyssa Liam Bacay, Nevin Perkins, Marc Pollifrone, and Gianna Valdez

Hosted by: Edvige Giunta and Vee Hughes

For more information, contact Edvige Giunta at egunta@njcu.edu.

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.

American Dream: Lecture by Dr. Raverty and Prof. Dittrich
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 • 4–5 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

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!

Intramural Events for Spring 2026 | Flag Football
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 • 8:30-10:30 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

12th Annual NJCU Lavender Graduation
Thursday, April 23, 2026 • 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Student Pizza and Conversation with the CAS Deans: The Final Slice
Thursday, April 23, 2026 • 12:30-2 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

The Last Formation: Honoring NJCU's Military Affiliated Students
Thursday, April 23, 2026 • 5 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Thursday, April 23, 2026 • 3:30 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

The NJCU baseball team will host nationally No. 6 ranked Rowan University one day one of a two-day home-and-home New Jersey Athletic Conference series. It will be the final mid-week NJAC game in program history. Admission is free for NJCU baseball.

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

See Continuing Events for more information.

Intertwined: 2026 NJCU BFA Thesis Exhibition
Group A Artist Talk : Thursday, April 23, 2026 • 5:30-7 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

No events scheduled.

NJCU Admitted Students Day 2026
Saturday, April 25, 2026 • 9 a.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Saturday, April 25, 2026 • 11:30 a.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

The NJCU baseball team will host its final New Jersey Athletic Conference doubleheader and final NJAC games in program history as the Gothic Knights square off with the Rutgers-Camden Scarlet Raptors. Admission is free.

During the doubleheader, NJCU will honor its 2026 Senior Class on Senior Day.

Saturday, April 25, 2026 • 1 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

The NJCU softball team will play its final ever New Jersey Athletic Conference softball doubleheader as the Gothic Knights take on the William Paterson University Pioneers. Admission is free.

During the doubleheader, NJCU will honor its 2026 Senior Class on Senior Day.

Saturday, April 25, 2026 • 3 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.

Saturday, April 25, 2026 • 3 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.

No events scheduled.

Monday, April 27, 2026 • 4 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

Baseball is the second longest active sport at NJCU. The first season and home games in Jersey City were played in 1937. This will be the final one played at home. Come support the NJCU baseball team in the final home game in program history as NJCU looks to swing past the Saint Elizabeth University Eagles. Admission is free.

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.

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/

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 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!

Thursday, April 30, 2026 • 6 p.m.
Margaret Williams Theater (Hepburn Hall)

Welcome to the final NJCU Dance Club Showcase. The NJCU Dance Club was founded in September 2024 by Crystal Genthe, Francesca Evangelista, and Branda Logan with a mission to celebrate movement, culture, and community through dance.

Over time, the club has grown to include a wide range of styles like folklore, contemporary/lyrical, hip hop, reggaeton, heels, and afro style dance. Just as diverse as the styles are the dancers themselves—who come together from different backgrounds to share one stage.

The theme of the final showcase, This Is Me, highlights authenticity, cultural fusion, and the power of dance and music to bring people together and create joy.

Doors open at 6 p.m. The event is free for all.

The showcase is co-sponsored by Haitian Student Association (HSA), Student Government Association (SGA), Math Club, TRiO Learning Community (TLC), Ecuagothics, Psychology Society, Federación de Estudiantes Latino Americanos (FELA), Student Organization Office (SOO), Student Activities Board (SAB), and Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL).

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.

Saturday, May 2, 2026 • 12-4:30 p.m.
Jersey City Free Public Library Five Corners Branch | 678 Newark Ave, Jersey City, N.J.

Step into the world of tomorrow’s jazz legends at the 2026 NJCU Spring Jazz Fest. Join us as multi-Grammy award-winning jazz faculty headline the festival and engage in a captivating display of musical dialogue with the region’s most talented young artists, creating an unforgettable musical experience that you won’t want to miss.

This concert is free and open to the public!

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 • 5 p.m.
Virtual event

Ready to step into the classroom? 🍎 Join New Jersey City University for a virtual info session covering everything you need to know about earning your Certificate of Eligibility (CE), preparing for the Praxis Content exams, and exploring our Alternate Route programs in P-3, ESL, Elementary, and Secondary Education. 📚✨ Get expert guidance, learn about flexible course and endorsement options, and all attendees receive an application fee waiver code!

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 • 5 p.m.
Virtual event

Looking to turn your passion for teaching into a New Jersey classroom career? 🍎🚀 Join New Jersey City University’s dynamic Zoom info session to explore our Alternate Route pathways in P-3, ESL, Elementary, and Secondary Education—and learn how to get certified faster and smarter.

Thursday, May 7, 2026 • 9:30 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.
Science Building Lobby

As the end of the semester wraps up, the Supplemental Instruction team invites you to study with us as we get ready to ace those STEM final exams! Enjoy food, refreshments, and chances to win prizes while prepping for your finals. We can’t wait to see you there!

Study Sessions are available in the following subjects:

Many thanks to our wonderful event co-sponsors for their collaboration and outstanding support: Division of Student Development & Community Engagement, Center for Student Persistence & Success, Dean of Students, Center for Teaching & Learning, Student Government Association, Student Activities Board, Student Organization Officers, Pre-Dental Club, The Thread, Health Science Student Organization, Pre-Med Club, Biology Club, Chemistry Club, ASBMB Club, Pre-Physician Assistant Club, Girls Who Code, Psychology Club, Dance Club, Math Club, Class of 2026, NJ STEM Month and Computing Alliance of Hispanic-Serving Institutions partners, Kappa Mu Epsilon Mathematics Honors Society and the Association for Computing Machinery Honors Society.

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 • 10:30 a.m.-2:30 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.