Welcome to Edition 204 of This Week at NJCU for the week of April 27, 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 May 4, 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.

As part of Kean University’s commitment to open communication during the merger process with New Jersey City University, we invite you to complete a short, five-minute follow-up survey.

This week is the final change to participate in the survey. The survey will close on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

Many members of the Kean and NJCU communities shared their perspectives in a survey last fall. This follow-up survey will help us understand how views may have evolved and allow us to better track progress, identify emerging concerns and improve how we communicate moving forward. Whether you participated previously or are sharing feedback for the first time, your voice matters.

Responses are confidential unless you choose to identify yourself. 

At the end of the survey, you may submit your email for a chance to win $50 in Kean Flex Dollars, a $50 credit on your NJCU Gothic Card, or a Kean or NJCU alumni gift bag. Your identity will remain confidential and will not be shared with anyone reviewing survey results.

Thank you for taking part.

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.

Tuesday, April 28, 2026 • 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Gothic Lounge, Hepburn Hall, Room 202

Join El Centro for the final major event of the NJCU era. The Colloquium is a full-day program featuring panels, roundtables, a book talk, and special guests, all centered on the theme of Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino/a/x Studies. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided, and attendees are welcome to participate for the full day or stop by between classes or meetings.

Confirmed Panels

10:00–10:30 a.m. | Breakfast and welcome by Dr. Franca and SGA President Andréa Izaguirre

10:45–11:15 a.m. | “What My Haitian Parents Taught Me About Resilience,” by Jeff Dess

11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | “The Importance of Collective Memory: History and Lived Experience During Operation Condor in the Southern Cone, Featuring Testimony from Survivors,” presented by Dr. Franca’s Violence and Resistance in Latin America class

Tuesday, April 28, 2026 • 2-3 p.m.
TLC Office, Hepburn Hall 112E

Join the TRiO Learning Community for an inspiring workshop led by graduating senior and NJCU Board of Trustee student representative Branda Logan. This session is designed to help you level up your professional presence and personal growth. In addition to career strategies, Branda will share valuable tips on self-care and the philosophy of becoming 1% better every single day. Snacks will be provided!

Learn how to:

More Information: Call 201-200-2204 or email tlc@njcu.edu

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 • 12-2 p.m.
Virtual event via Microsoft Teams

The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, in collaboration with FEMA, New Jersey State Police and New Jersey Shield, invites members of the New Jersey City University and Kean University communities to attend a free Hometown Security Initiative seminar.

The seminar will discuss tools and resources that help strengthen the security and resilience of communities across New Jersey to build preparedness capabilities. Topics will include internet and social media safety practices and active threat preparedness.

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.

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).

June 29 – July 30, 2026 • 1-3 p.m. (Monday–Thursday)
Hepburn Hall

NJCU’s Summer 2026 Pre-College Programs are now open for enrollment, giving high school students (Grades 9–12) the opportunity to build real-world skills in a structured, supportive, on-campus environment. Students will complete self-paced online courses with in-person coaching, combining flexibility with hands-on guidance in our computer labs.

Students can explore high-demand fields like:

With courses starting at just $175, this program is designed to challenge students while helping them gain practical, career-ready skills before graduation.

Spots are limited! Request more information today and start building your future this summer.

For more details or to enroll, contact the Office of Adult and Continuing Education at 201-200-3089 or email conted@njcu.edu.

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 27, 2026 • 3 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.

48th Annual Pa’Lante Graduation Ceremony
Monday, April 27, 2026 • 4-7 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Monday, April 27, 2026 • 5 p.m. (Approximately)
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.

El Centro Presents: The Colloquium
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 • 10 a.m. - 7 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

Tuesday, April 28, 2026 • 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Gilligan Student Union 129

The Margaux Fragoso '02 Literary Courage Award recognizes students currently enrolled at NJCU who have distinguished themselves for their work as writers and/or activists who understand the transformative power of literature. Such students will have demonstrated their dedication to the written or spoken word and its ability to express, to inspire, and to improve the lives of others. These writers will have produced tangible results, such as a completed piece of writing submitted for a class, presentation, or publication, and/or they may have been involved in initiatives such as organizing literary events, running writing workshops on or off campus, tutoring or teaching.

This year's award was judged by Professor Edvige Giunta, Professor Joshua Fausty, and NJCU alumni Krystal Sital and Angelica Roman, longstanding members of the committee. Professor Giunta established the award to honor the literary legacy of NJCU alumna Margaux Fragoso '02.

The event is sponsored by the NJCU English Department Student Events and Publications Committee. For Information contact Professor Edvige Giunta at egiunta@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.

New Jersey Shield Hometown Security Initiative Seminar
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 • 12-2 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

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.

BAAFSSO 40th Annual Salute to Graduates Celebration
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 • 4:30 p.m.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

Kean University's 2nd Annual Car Show 'Rep Your Ride.'
Deadline to register for a sponsorship is April 30, 2026.

See Coming Soon for more information.

Kean–NJCU Merger Feedback Survey
The survey will close on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

See Spotlight Events for more information.

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

See Continuing Events for more information.

Thursday, April 30, 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 game in program history. Come support the NJCU baseball team and celebrate the Class of 2026 on Senior Day in the final home game in program history as NJCU looks to swing past the Saint Elizabeth University Eagles. Join us for this historical athletic moment. Admission is free. 

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!

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!

Saturday, May 2, 2026 • 1 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex
Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

The NJCU softball team will play the final two games in program history as it hosts a non-conference doubleheader against the Brooklyn College Bulldogs. Prior to the game, the Gothic Knights will honors the Class of 2026 on Senior Day! Join us for this historical athletic moment. Admission is free.

Saturday, May 2, 2026 • 3 p.m. (Approximately)
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.

Intertwined: 2026 NJCU BFA Thesis Exhibition
Group B Reception: Saturday, May 2, 2026 • 3-6 p.m.

See Continuing Events for more information.

No events scheduled.

No events scheduled.

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.

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

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!

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 • 6:30 p.m.
Margaret Williams Theatre (Hepburn Hall)

Join us for our final NJCU Multi-Style Strings **LIFTOFF**

Is There Life on Mars?: A Multi-Style Strings Exploration.

Featuring:

✪ 6:30 p.m. | Noah Gruenberg's gravity defying master’s thesis | “Currents: In Search of Electric Violin Concertos”

✪ 7 p.m. | NJCU multi-style strings grand finale concert

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 • 4-5:30 p.m.
Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex Route 440 South, Jersey City, N.J.

Close out the semester with our final intramurals event of the year. Be fast...or get wet. Sponsored by NJCU Athletics and Recreation.

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

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.

Monday, May 11, 2026 • 6–9 p.m.
Skyline Room, NJCU School of Business, 200 Hudson St., Jersey City, NJ

We welcome you to an exciting end-of-semester celebration that will feature NJCU's talented musicians in the Vocal Jazz Ensemble and the Salsa Band. Then enjoy the All-Stars from our community partner and Jersey City based organization, Riverview Jazz, under the direction of their founder Bryan Beninghove. Plus bring your horn and join us for a jam session to close out the evening! This guarantees to be a celebration you don't want to miss.

Presented by The Caroline L. Guarini Department of Music, Dance & Theatre at NJCU and Riverview Jazz, this event is free and open to the public.

May 14-28, 2026

NJCU Visual Arts Gallery
Visual Arts Building Lower Level, 100 Culver Ave.

Opening Reception: Thursday, May 14, 2026 • 4-7 p.m.

Johanna Foster’s solo exhibition, Formidable Women, Dangerous Times, presents a powerful body of figurative paintings that summons the defiant spirit of fierce women in her communities, real and imagined, who have inspired courage and perseverance in devastating times. In a series of evocative portraits that range from larger-than-life renderings to small scale works, Johanna invites the viewer to bear witness to women’s capacity for personal and political resistance, and offers a space for connection, recognition, and healing. 

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.  

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 

Tuesday, June 9, 2026 • 12–1 p.m.
Virtual Event via Zoom

This webinar by Creative Financial Group will outline and explore four potential options for your company's retirement assets, while highlighting the importance of making an informed decision. This event is a collaboration between the Kean and NJCU Offices of Human Resources and the Well-Being at Kean program.

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.