Five years ago, the Office of University Communications and Marketing launched This Week at NJCU with a simple goal: to provide a more streamlined, efficient way to keep our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and broader university community informed about the events, announcements, and updates shaping life on campus.

Since 2022, more than 40,000 members of the NJCU community have found this newsletter in their inbox each Monday — and today, our team is proud to share the 200th edition.

None of this would be possible without you. Thank you to everyone who has submitted events, attended the events, shared updates, and taken a few minutes each week to read along. Your engagement is what has made this publication meaningful.

With gratitude,

Ira Thor, Madelynne DelaRama, Allison Thornton, and the entire This Week at NJCU team.

Welcome to Edition 200 of This Week at NJCU for the week of March 30, 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 6, 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.

The Psychology Department invites all faculty, staff, alumni, and students to join us for the 9th Annual NJCU Pedagogy Day—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.

In honor of New Jersey STEM Month, NJCU invites students, faculty, and administrators to a special celebration. This year's program features two distinguished guests who are shaping the future of STEM at the state and national level:

Assemblywoman Katie Brennan (District 32) will speak about New Jersey's ongoing and upcoming STEM initiatives and the critical importance of strengthening STEM pathways for students across the Garden State.

NASA Scientist Dr. Bhanu Sood will present on NASA's STEM engagement programs, spotlighting exciting opportunities for students, educators, and institutions to collaborate on NASA missions and educational initiatives.

In addition to our guest speakers, several NJCU student STEM clubs and organizations will be tabling throughout the event — showcasing their research, outreach efforts, and hands-on STEM activities.

This is a meaningful opportunity to connect with statewide STEM priorities, learn about national initiatives, and celebrate the innovative work happening right here on our campus.

Monday, March 30, 2026 • 12-4 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union Multipurpose Room

Join us on Monday, March 30 for the 5th Annual Women’s Empowerment Brunch! This is a powerful celebration of strength, leadership, and community. This afternoon brings together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members to uplift and empower one another through meaningful conversations, intentional networking, and impactful mentorship. Whether you’re looking to expand your circle, share your journey or simply be in a room filled with dynamic and driven women, this brunch is your opportunity to connect with likeminded individuals and leave feeling motivated, energized, and empowered. Come ready to build community. Come ready to be inspired. Come ready to celebrate the power of women.

Now through March 30, 2026

Monday, March 30, 2026 • 11 a.m.
Online via GothicNet

Planning to take courses this summer? Registration for Summer 2026 is officially open as of today, Monday, March 30, at 11 a.m.

Registering is easy — log onto GothicNet, click on the My Registration tile, and select Class Search and Enroll to browse available courses and secure your spot.

Before you register, make sure you're prepared:

Any questions should be directed to the Office of the Registrar at registrar@njcu.edu or by calling 201-200-3333 or visiting the office in Hepburn Hall Rooms 213/214.

Last Day: NJCU Writing Center Book Drive
Monday, March 30, 2026

See Spotlight Events for more information.

9th Annual NJCU Pedagogy Day 2026
From Neurons to Narratives: Motivation, Anxiety, and Teaching in the Brain-Aware Classroom
Monday, March 30, 2026 • 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

NJ STEM Month Celebration
Monday, March 30, 2026 • 12-4 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

5th Annual Women’s Empowerment Brunch
Monday, March 30, 2026 • 12-4 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Monday, March 30, 2026 • 7 p.m.
Clement’s Place, 15 Washington Street, Newark, N.J.

The NJCU Jazz Ensemble welcomes you to an exciting evening of big band music to celebrate Black History Month. The concert features the Jazz Ensemble, built from students in NJCU's jazz department, and will also showcase our special guest, world-renowned tenor saxophonist Abraham Burton. The music will span the full history of jazz and highlight works by great Black composers and bandleaders, including Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Thad Jones, John Coltrane, and many more.

Under the direction of Nathan Eklund, the ensemble will deliver a powerful, dynamic evening for listeners of all ages that you won't forget.

This event is rescheduled from a February 23 postponement. This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required.

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

See Continuing Events for more information

Tuesday, March 31, 2026 • 2-3 p.m.
Virtual Event

The Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program provides opportunities to U.S. citizens to teach, conduct research, or pursue a professional project abroad. Join us as 400+ awards open for U.S. citizens to support teaching, research, and professional projects.

This hour-long webinar will discuss how to register for the launch of the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Competition 2027-2028. In this webinar, we will highlight new and priority awards in all regions and answer your questions. We will also discuss our full slate of programming so you can join us for webinars and office hours throughout the competition.

We look forward to answering your questions and learning about your specific interests in Fulbright.

If you have any questions, please contact the NJCU Fulbright Liaison, Dr. John Donnellan, at Jdonnellan@njcu.edu.

Tuesday, March 31, 2026 • 4-6 p.m.
The Gothic Lounge (Hepburn Hall 202)

Ann E. Wallace, Ph.D., the Director of the Writing Center and Professor of English at NJCU, will host an on-campus celebration to honor the release of her third full-length poetry collection, "Keeping Room" (Nixes Mate, 2026). Dr. Wallace is the Poet Laureate Emeritus of Jersey City.

"Keeping Room" is an intimate collection grounded in familial spaces of home and garden. The poems grapple with the nature of survival, and the survival of nature, as experienced by a woman living with chronic illness in an overdeveloped city with a shrinking natural footprint. The collection spools from the pain of chronic illness and grief, to the loss of political freedoms, to the disrupted urban (and global) landscape. However, despite despair and uncertainty, the poems reach for hope, love, and strength in the unlikely places where they may be found, with a steady turn toward nature and healing, or often, healing through nature, throughout the collection.

Tuesday, March 31, 2026 • 5 p.m.
Virtual Event

Join New Jersey City University for a virtual info session that breaks down everything you need to know about earning your Certificate of Eligibility and preparing for the Praxis Content exams 📚✨. Explore Alternate Route programs in P-3, ESL, Elementary, and Secondary Education while getting expert guidance on CE requirements, Praxis prep, flexible course options, and endorsement areas ✅🎓. Take your first step toward the classroom with clear, practical support!

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

See Continuing Events for more information.

Tuesday, March 31, 2026 • 6 p.m.
Virtual Event

AI is entering STEM/STEAM classrooms rapidly 🤖📚, and this session shows educators simple, responsible ways to use it while protecting student privacy and ensuring accessibility for all learners. Participants will explore how AI can support scaffolding, differentiation, and assessment without replacing teacher judgment, while also learning to recognize bias and make ethical, informed decisions ⚖️✨.

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

See Continuing Events for more information.

April Fools' Day is today, so we'll keep it straight with you: this newsletter is 100% real. No kidding.

Wednesday, April 1, 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

Wishing Chag Pesach Sameach — a joyful and meaningful Passover — to all in the NJCU community who celebrate. Passover begins at sundown on Wednesday, April 1, and continues through nightfall on Thursday, April 9. May this season of freedom, reflection, and togetherness bring you peace and happiness.

Thursday, April 2, 2026 • 1-3 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union Lobby

Calling all First-Gen Gothic Knights! Our popular First-Generation Lunch & Learn and Tabling series return this Spring with the connections, insights, and resources you need to own your NJCU experience. Meet fellow first-gen students, learn from mentors who understand your unique journey, and discover the support systems that will help you excel. Don't miss out—your community is waiting!

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

See Continuing Events for more information.

Thursday, April 2, 2026 • 5 p.m.
Virtual Event

Step into the future of protection with NJCU’s National Security Graduate programs! 🛡️💼 Gain the skills to tackle modern threats, manage risks, and lead in public safety, emergency management, and beyond. 🌐🚨 Don’t just build a career—lead to make a difference! 

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

See Continuing Events for more information.

NJCU will be closed on Friday, April 3, in observance of Good Friday. We wish everyone a peaceful holiday weekend and look forward to seeing you back on campus Monday

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

The Gothic Knight baseball team plays the second day of a home-and-home New Jersey Athletic Conference baseball series as they take on the Rutgers-Newark Scarlet Raiders. You have the day off! Come enjoy the sunshine and support NJCU baseball. Admission is free.

Saturday, April 4, 2026 • 10 a.m.
Virtual Event

Advance your career with NJCU’s Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) in Civil Security Leadership, Management & Policy! 🎓🛡️ Integrate expertise in national security, emergency management, cybersecurity, and more to innovate best practices and strengthen community resilience. 🌐💼 Prepare to tackle complex threats and lead at every level—local to global! 

Wishing a joyful and blessed Easter to all in the NJCU community who celebrate. Please note that the university will be closed on Sunday, April 5. We hope you enjoy the holiday with family and loved ones.

No events scheduled.

Horizon: Monday, April 6, 2026 • 12:30–1 p.m.
Aetna: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 • 12:30–1 p.m.
Virtual Event via Microsoft Teams

Join representatives from Horizon and Aetna for an informative session covering retiree health plan options. This event will provide an overview of available medical and prescription benefits, enrollment details, and more. This event is a collaboration between the Kean and NJCU Offices of Human Resources and the Well-Being at Kean program.

Monday, April 6, 2026 • 6 p.m.
Virtual Event

Join us for our Spring 2026 Webinar Series as the Department of Educational Technology at New Jersey University dive into current and hot topics in the Ed Tech world. The department's internationally recognized and accredited programs are leading the field in learning with project-based strategies, emerging technologies, and standards alignment. Don’t miss NJCU’s webinar on hemorrhage management—essential knowledge for health sciences students! 🩸🎓 Learn early assessment, intervention, blood loss classification, and the medical team’s role in treating bleeding patients. 💉🩺 Gain confidence, clinical awareness, and practical skills for real-world practice! 

Intramural Events for Spring 2026: 3-on-3 Basketball
Monday, April 6, 2026 • 8:30-10:30 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

March 16 - April 9, 2026
NJCU Visual Arts Gallery, Visual Arts Building, Lower Level

NJCU Visual Arts Gallery is pleased to present the exhibition, “Between Air and Earth: Winifred McNeill,” honoring a distinguished artist and Professor Emeritus, Winifred McNeill, who built and nurtured the NJCU Art Department for more than 25 years.

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 8, 2026 • 6-10 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union, Multipurpose Room

The Haitian Student Association is excited to invite you to our 3rd annual Kompa Night and Alumni Reunion, a night dedicated to celebrating Haitian culture, music, and community. Join us for an evening where students, alumni, and guests come together to dance, connect, and create unforgettable memories.

Dress to impress and get ready for a night of great vibes 💃🏾🕺🏾

RSVP is required.

Don't forget to check our IG page: @njcu.hsa
We can’t wait to celebrate with you all! 🇭🇹✨

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.
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!

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. We'll offer these sessions at least one day most months, so if you can't make this one, check This Week at NJCU for future dates.

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

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!

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.

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.

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: $50 | Student 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.