Through the Fulbright–Budapest Semesters in Mathematics–Rényi Institute Scholar Award in Mathematics, Hopkins will travel to Hungary where he will conduct an independent research project while participating in the research community at the Alfréd Rényi Institute, one of Europe’s leading mathematical research centers. The program brings together scholars working across a broad range of mathematical disciplines, including combinatorics, combinatorial optimization, number theory, mathematical foundations of artificial intelligence, network theory, algebraic geometry and topology.

“It’s a great honor to be selected as a Fulbright Scholar for spring 2027 in Hungary,” said Hopkins. “This is a unique mathematics opportunity, jointly sponsored by a prestigious study-abroad program and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences.”

“I will give seminars for students in the Budapest Semesters in Mathematics and work with them on research projects, similar to our work with students in the Honors Program,” Hopkins added. “For four months I will also join the rich research environment of the Alfréd Rényi Institute, the mathematics arm of their national sciences academy.”

Hopkins’s primary research focuses on integer partitions, a field studying collections of natural numbers with fixed sums that was first explored by mathematician Leonhard Euler and continues to generate new discoveries today.

His Fulbright research will expand upon partition statistics work he began in 2020—research that has already contributed to more than 60 academic publications by researchers around the world. By exploring additional perspectives on these classical mathematical structures, Hopkins hopes to create deeper understanding and identify new applications in fields such as physics and computer science.

Hopkins earned his Ph.D. from the University of Washington and holds both a Bachelor of Science (mathematics) and Bachelor of Arts (philosophy) from the University of Texas.

His accomplishments include receiving the 2015 Haimo Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching from the Mathematical Association of America, serving as editor of The College Mathematics Journal from 2014 through 2018, publishing nearly 50 research papers, authoring two books and editing two more, and presenting research internationally.

The Fulbright Scholar Award represents another milestone in Hopkins’s distinguished academic career and reflects �������� University’s continued commitment to advancing research, scholarship and global engagement.

�������� University congratulates Dr. Hopkins on this prestigious achievement and celebrates his continued contributions to the University community and the field of mathematics.

The post �������� University Professor Dr. Brian Hopkins Selected as Fulbright Scholar for Spring 2027 appeared first on News.

A graduate of Jose Marti STEM Academy, Ruqya has distinguished herself as an exceptional scholar and leader, embodying the Jesuit values of academic excellence, service, and care for others throughout her time at ��������. She represents the very best of �������� University, combining intellectual rigor, clinical excellence, and a deep commitment to serving others. As part of the 2026 Commencement Events, Ruqya delivered a speech at the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony.

Please join us in congratulating Ruqya on this extraordinary achievement. The full text of her 2026 commencement speech is below.

Good morning President Benitez, Board of Trustees, members of the administration, faculty and staff, parents and families, and the �������� University Class of 2026. There’s something many of us probably heard from our teachers in high school and that is “Oh, that won’t fly in college.” You wouldn’t be able to ask for an extension. You certainly couldn’t email a professor at the last minute because that was so unprofessional. And you absolutely would not be able to ask for a little bit of extra help. We were told: “You’ll be an adult and you just have to figure it out.” And because of that, college was always painted as this “hunger games” experience. Stricter. Less forgiving. Dark. And significantly more distant.

But standing here today — four years later — I think I can confidently say, they couldn’t be more wrong. Because at Saint Peter’s University, a lot of those things did “fly” —- not because college was unserious or because expectations were lower, but because something else was higher, care. Care from our professors who didn’t just know our names but also knew our personalities, goals, and even our failures. Care from our advisors (thank you, Lauren and Dr. Wifall) and coaches who constantly checked in. Care from faculty (Dr. Twersky and Dr. Wynder), in counseling services, the honors program, the ministry, the library and the STEM center who worked overtime to make sure we felt supported. And even care from the employees at Pete’s Place or the security guards who, at some point, stopped feeling like staff and started feeling like our friends. And that’s what made our experience different — those small, everyday moments we all quietly shared. It’s in Starbucks during the common hour, where the line was always way too long. It’s in the library, where we told ourselves we were being productive—even if we spent half the time talking—and somehow, the elevator was always broken? — I did appreciate the extra steps on the Apple Watch though. It’s in the days when the bridge was closed, and we had to cross Kennedy Boulevard together, hoping we didn’t get hit by a car. It’s in the way that whenever anyone from another school brought up college basketball we had to mention �������� Cinderella story to the Elite Eight.

It’s in the countless trips to Prince Pizza and in the countless SGA emails that always found themselves in our inbox. And yes—even Rankin Hall. The place we all dreaded walking to (especially this winter)… but somehow, those walks became part of our shared experience too. You see, no matter where you went to high school or what major you were, we all shared one identity for the last four years. And together, in a world plagued by prejudice and polarization, we unknowingly created something powerful — a community. And wherever we go—whether into hospitals, classrooms, businesses, or beyond—we carry with us the lessons this community taught us: to care, to support, and to show up for others. So maybe high school was right about one thing—college was different, �������� was different. But not in the way we expected. It taught us that we are more similar than we think. Because even if we didn’t know each other’s names, there was always something familiar about one another. And as we move forward into the next chapters of our lives, that familiarity will matter more than we realize. We are and we will always be Peacocks.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Thank you.

The post Class of 2026 Valedictorian Ruqya Elouarraq Commencement Speech appeared first on News.

Quoraishee’s educational background spans multiple disciplines and institutions, reflecting a lifelong commitment to learning and professional growth. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Dhaka, a Master of Science in Computer and Decision Science from Pratt Institute, and a Master of Business Administration in Management Information Systems from �������� University before completing her Ed.D. at ��������.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Quoraishee holds FINRA financial licenses, including the General Securities Representative Examination (Series 7) and the Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination (Series 63).

Throughout her career, Quoraishee has worked across a range of technical and financial organizations in positions including programmer, analyst, systems designer, consultant, project manager and senior program manager. She has also held leadership roles at the executive level, serving as assistant vice president and vice president while providing technical consulting services across multiple states.

Beyond her professional experience, Quoraishee has remained dedicated to community service through volunteer work supporting adult literacy programs at nonprofit organizations, providing instructional and educational support to learners seeking new opportunities.

For Quoraishee, pursuing a doctoral degree represented the fulfillment of a longstanding personal and professional goal centered on education and lifelong learning.

“I have long envisioned building a career in the field of education and now have the opportunity to pursue this longstanding aspiration,” said Quoraishee. “My goal is to gain advanced knowledge and professional training in education while developing expertise in teaching, research, planning and innovative educational practices.”

She credits �������� University’s Ed.D. program with helping strengthen both her academic foundation and commitment to the field of education.

“The coursework, academic rigor and professional discipline of �������� University’s Ed.D. program provided the foundation necessary to achieve these objectives and further strengthened my commitment to the field of education,” she said.

Looking ahead, Quoraishee hopes to focus her work on supporting older adults, seniors and immigrant populations through education and lifelong learning opportunities, helping empower communities through access to knowledge and personal growth.

Her achievement reflects the mission of �������� University to prepare compassionate leaders committed to service, innovation and advancing the common good.

The post �������� University Celebrates Ed.D. Graduate Umme Quoraishee appeared first on News.

On Saturday, May 20, 2026, �������� University celebrated its 135th Commencement Ceremony, sending forth the next generation of leaders prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities and professions.

Friends, families, faculty and alumni gathered along John F. Kennedy Boulevard as the sounds of bagpipes echoed throughout Jersey City, signaling the beginning of one of the University’s most celebrated traditions. Led by the color guard carrying the gonfalons, a sea of blue caps and gowns processed into the ceremony alongside faculty, members of the Golden Peacocks from the Class of 1976, the Alumni Board, Board of Regents, University leadership and honorary degree recipients.

The ceremony reflected the spirit of excellence, perseverance and leadership that defines the �������� community, while also celebrating the many first-generation graduates whose journeys were shaped by determination, resilience and the support of those around them.

In his second commencement address as president of �������� University, Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., reminded graduates of their responsibility to serve others and lead with compassion.

“You are the embodiment of the Magis,” said President Benitez. “The call to be more, to do more, and to give more of yourselves in service of others.”

“And now, as you move forward, I want to remind you of something we hold deeply in our mission: your goal is not only personal success, but making a difference in the communities you will serve  one family, one life at a time. That is how real change happens. That is how hope is built.”

“In today’s world, it is more important than ever that we come together, not in division, but in solidarity; not in despair, but in the pursuit of hope. This is the essence of our Jesuit, Catholic tradition: to be people who stand with others, who lift others, and who believe that faith and knowledge must always lead to service.”

During the ceremony, Kenneth Moore ’91, chair of the �������� University Board of Trustees, presented the Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, to Joseph A. Panepinto, Esq. ’66, founder and president of Panepinto Properties, in recognition of his decades of leadership and transformative contributions to the development of Jersey City. The prestigious honor was accepted on his behalf by his daughter, Roseanne Panepinto Taufield.

The University also conferred an honorary degree upon commencement speaker Dr. Ijeoma “Ije” Akunyili, physician-leader, public servant and advocate for health equity. As chief medical officer of Jersey City Medical Center, Dr. Akunyili made history in 2023 as the first Black chief medical officer in the hospital’s 141-year history.

In her commencement address, Dr. Akunyili reflected on her journey from Nigeria to the United States and encouraged graduates to pursue lives rooted in purpose and service.

“Today I choose to serve everyone who comes into my hospital regardless of their economic status and especially when I do not know their circumstances,” said Dr. Akunyili. “As I deeply understand that health equity is one of the highest forms of social justice.”

“Everything you carry within you was never meant to be hidden because this world needs more Peacocks.”

Undergraduate valedictorian Ruqya Elouarraq, who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology, reflected on the sense of community students built together during their time at ��������.

“We all shared one identity for the last four years,” Elouarraq said. “And together, in a world plagued by prejudice and polarization, we unknowingly created something, a powerful community.”

“Wherever we go whether into hospitals, classrooms, businesses, or beyond we carry with us the lessons this community taught us: to care, to support, and to show up for others.”

Graduate speaker Cliff Achokah echoed those sentiments while speaking about the importance of cura personalis care for the whole person, throughout the �������� experience.

“The small community builds lifelong relationships and quite frankly embodies the very emblem �������� goes by, and that is cura personalis,” said Achokah. “�������� has equipped you and I with the tools to excel in the real world and be receptive to success in all forms.”

At the conclusion of the ceremony, President Benitez officially conferred degrees upon the graduating class and offered one final message to the newest �������� alumni.

“We are confident you will go forward and make the world better because you were here,” Benitez said. “You will always have a home at �������� University  on John F. Kennedy Boulevard and in the heart of this community. Go forward with purpose, courage and pride.”

The 135th Commencement Ceremony concluded with celebration, reflection and the beginning of a new chapter for the Class of 2026.

The post �������� University Celebrates the Class of 2026 at 135th Commencement Ceremony appeared first on News.

Following a nearly five-year-long hiatus, live theatre has returned to �������� University with a production of Rent, a joint effort between Arts on Bergen and Argus Eyes, �������� student-run drama club.

Roy Irving Theater was packed for two nearly-sold-out performances on May 1st and 2nd. Directed by University Director of Music Joseph Hill, the cast featured Jossiel Lopez-Hernandez ‘28 as videographer Mark Cohen, Andres Zuniga ‘26 as jaded rockstar Roger Davis, and Brookes Carrillo ‘28 as Roger’s love interest, Mimi Marquez, plus more.

The musical, set against the backdrop of New York City during the HIV/AIDS crisis,  follows impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive, create art and find love. The show ran for over 12 years on Broadway and features classics like “Seasons of Love,” “Take Me or Leave Me” and “La Vie Boheme.”

“There are so many intangible things that students learn by being in a musical. Simple things. Be on time, know your stuff,” says Hill. “But also, deeper truths about the human experience.”

Live theatre had been a longstanding tradition at ��������; Argus Eyes performed classics like Urinetown, Godspell, and even Rent. However, the pandemic arrived just before the group’s March 2020 production of Hair, cancelling the production altogether and disappointing the students who had worked hard to make it happen.

When Joseph Hill arrived on campus in July 2022, he vowed to help performing arts on campus make a comeback. Prior to Rent’s auditions in November 2025, he searched high and low for actors, musicians and creative minds to come together for one shared mission: the love of the arts.

One of those talents was Brookes Carillo ‘28, a sophomore majoring in business. Even though she enjoys singing, Rent was her first show. “Throughout this process, I’ve grown more confident, and it’s given me a stronger sense of self. Like, ‘I can do this!’ And if I can do this, so can anyone else.”

Hill looks forward to two more productions next year. “I think that the biggest message that I would like to send to the University community is that theatre and performing arts matter at ��������. I’m definitely going to miss it when it’s over.”

.

Watch the Making of Rent Documentary by Elektra Hanna ’26

The post Live Theatre Returns to �������� University with Jonathan Larson’s “Rent” appeared first on News.

�������� University celebrated the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 during the annual John J. Delaney Graduate Reception, hosted by the Office of Alumni Engagement ahead of Commencement ceremonies.

Held in honor of John “Jack” Delaney ’50, the evening recognized graduating students while officially welcoming them into the University’s global alumni community. Delaney played a leading role in the formal reorganization of the �������� alumni community in 1953, helping establish the strong culture of alumni engagement and lifelong connection that continues today.

“Tonight, we celebrate a truly special milestone: the accomplishments of the Class of 2026,” said Cinthia Diaz during her opening remarks on behalf of �������� University and the Office of Alumni Engagement. “Your hard work, resilience, and dedication have brought you to this moment, and we are incredibly proud of all that you have achieved.”

The reception highlighted the achievements and diversity of the graduating class, which includes more than 1,000 graduates representing programs across the University, including Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Nursing and Professional Studies. Addressing the graduates, �������� University Alumni Board President Eric McCullough reflected on the unique makeup of the Class of 2026 and the impact students have made both inside and outside the classroom.

“You are a diverse and dynamic class,” McCullough said. “More than half of our undergraduate students are first-generation college students, and more than 80 percent of you have participated in internships, research, study abroad, or other hands-on learning experiences preparing you not just for your next step but for long-term success.”

The evening also included a mission moment and prayer led by Father James Miracky, S.J., vice president for Mission Integration and Ministry, offering a blessing for the graduating class as they prepare to begin the next chapter of their journeys.

�������� University President Hubert Benitez congratulated graduates on their accomplishments while encouraging them to carry the University’s Jesuit values into their futures. “�������� University is grounded in a mission to form leaders committed to service, integrity, and the common good,” Benitez said. “As you move forward, I encourage you to carry those values with you into your careers, your communities, and your lives.” During the evening, President Benitez also recognized members of the Class of 2026 selected to receive commencement awards for outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to the University community.

A highlight of the reception was the presentation of the Class of 2026 Gift of $3,026 by student representatives Christopher Dominguez and Julio Santos. Continuing a longstanding �������� tradition, the graduating class raised funds in support of the General Scholarship Fund, helping make �������� education accessible for future students.

The student representatives also recognized Anne Butler ’69 for contributing an additional $1,000 gift in support of the initiative.

The evening concluded with graduates, families, faculty, staff and friends celebrating together with music, food and activities, marking both the culmination of their �������� journey and the beginning of their lifelong connection to the University community.

Wherever your path takes you, �������� will always be part of your story.

The post Class of 2026 Celebrated at John J. Delaney Graduate Reception appeared first on News.

The transformed space, commonly known as the “bubble,” has been reimagined from a former storage area into a dynamic, high-performance environment for student-athletes and the broader community. The upgraded facility now features a FIFA-certified soccer turf and a track, enhancing training and competition opportunities for Peacock athletics.

Rev. James J. Miracky, S.J., Ph.D., offered a blessing of the new facility, reflecting on the connection between physical activity and Jesuit values. “Saint Ignatius Loyola once said, ‘Remember that bodily exercise, when it is well-ordered, is also prayer by means of which you can please God,’” he shared. “We give thanks for the gift of movement, for the opportunity to share our talents, and to inspire others to go the distance.”

“This renovated indoor athletic complex at the Yanitelli Center represents far more than an upgrade of facilities. It reflects �������� University’s continued progress and our unwavering commitment to the future of Jersey City. We remain dedicated to serving as an anchor institution for our community by investing in spaces that enrich the student experience while also creating opportunities for the broader community we are privileged to serve. This renovation, through the generous support of Trustee Tom MacMahon, ensures that our students, athletes, and neighbors alike will benefit from a first-class environment that promotes wellness, competition, and community engagement”, said President Hubert Benitez.

The project was made possible through the collective efforts of University leadership and partners, including Katie Arcuri, director of athletics, and her team; members of the Board of Trustees; Anna DePaula, assistant vice president of Campus Services; and facility partners, including Billy Santomauro of Santomauro General Contracting, LLC.

Elected officials and community representatives in attendance included a legislative aide from the Office of New Jersey State Senator Angela V. McKnight, Councilperson-at-Large Rolando R. Lavarro Jr., Lado Ramishvili, and Councilperson Thomas Zuppa Jr.. In his remarks, Councilperson Zuppa stated, “Congratulations to the entire �������� University community for this wonderful addition and renovation, and a personal thank you from Jersey City. Thank you for being a critical part of opening this space to our community and for providing families with much-needed recreational opportunities.”

A special acknowledgement was given to Committee Chair Tom Mac Mahon ’68 for his longstanding support and commitment to the University. His contributions played a key role in transforming the facility into a modern, accessible space for both students and the community.

Student-athletes also reflected on the impact of the new complex. Lex Vaughan ’26 of men’s soccer shared, “This space truly represents cura personalis, supporting the whole person both on and off the field.” Karilynn Jimenez ’26 of women’s track and field added, “This space will give all athletes the opportunity to grow, not just as teammates, but as individuals. I look forward to seeing how it helps us compete and succeed.”

The Indoor Athletic Complex at the Yanitelli Center is expected to open for broader community use later in 2026, with additional details to be announced.

The post �������� University Unveils Renovated Indoor Athletic Complex at Yanitelli Center Featuring FIFA-Certified Soccer Turf and Track appeared first on News.

Students distributed different plants, such as mint, chamomile, succulents and freshly harvested basil and lettuce to professors, advisors, students and campus safety within the community of ��������, during Earth Week. They then traveled to McGinley Square (Jersey City, NJ) to give out small hydroponics kits with guidance and instructions on how to use them, their benefits, and how they can best be used. In addition to the hydroponic kits, students passed out plants, such as mint and chamomile, to show our Jersey City neighbors an example of the products that CURA Farm grows and encourage them to grow their own.

On the academic side of this effort, students from Dr. Garret Kluthe’s class wrote and delivered a report on alternative methods of farming within urban environments. Many communities have been using medicinal herbs in place of medicine, since they believe they are healthier and more affordable alternatives. However, in urban environments, it is sometimes difficult to find fresh medicinal and culturally relevant plants.

The developments of a new growing method, such as hydroponic systems, can help in reducing the impact of climate change and maximizing the ability to grow more plants. The hydroponics can be used year round to grow plants and can be used anywhere in closed or open areas and can be especially beneficial in urban environments where space is a limitation.

Kudos to Dr. Garret Kluthe and her biology students for working hard to make an impact in our community! Make sur to stop by CURA Farm on tour next visit to the Mac Mahon Center to check out the latest crops.

The post Community Engagement Through Plants: Biology Students Organize Plant Giveaway in Jersey City appeared first on News.

A longtime leader in the redevelopment of Jersey City, Panepinto has played a central role in shaping the city’s modern landscape. His career spans decades of public service and private development, beginning with his work as Jersey City Planning Board Attorney (1971–1973) and later as Redevelopment Attorney (1973–1977), where he contributed to early plans that helped guide the city’s transformation.

Since the 1980s, Panepinto Properties has developed more than 4.2 million square feet of mixed-use space, including office, residential and commercial properties. In partnership with Hartz Mountain Industries and Maher Terminals, Panepinto led the development of the first new office buildings in 30 years at Journal Square. His work expanded to the Jersey City waterfront in the 1990s, including projects such as the Gotham in partnership with Ironstate Development and Harborside Financial Center Plaza 10, a 600,000-square-foot office tower developed with Mack-Cali for Charles Schwab & Co.

The company’s signature Columbus Plaza development, built on the site of the PATH station at Columbus Boulevard, includes approximately 1,500 residential units, a 150-room hotel, fitness and wellness facilities, retail space and a 1,200-car parking structure. Panepinto Properties has also expanded internationally, most recently completing a 1,900-unit condominium project in Songdo, South Korea.

In addition to his professional achievements, Panepinto has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to civic engagement and philanthropy. In September 2025, he was designated a trustee emeritus at �������� in recognition of his decades of service to the University, including roles as trustee, regent and advisor on campus planning and real estate. His generous philanthropic legacy at the University includes Panepinto Plaza at the Mac Mahon Student Center and Panepinto Hall, the newest student residence. Panepinto also previously served as a trustee and governing board member of Christ Hospital for two decades.

Panepinto’s leadership and dedication to community development reflect a career defined by vision, persistence and a deep connection to Jersey City. This honorary degree recognizes his lasting impact on the city’s growth, his commitment to civic engagement and his longstanding relationship with �������� University.

The post Joseph A. Panepinto, Esq. ’66 to Receive Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters Degree from �������� University appeared first on News.

Dr. Akunyili is the chief medical officer of Jersey City Medical Center, a hospital of RWJBarnabas Health. In January 2023, she became the first Black chief medical officer in the hospital’s 141-year history, a milestone reflecting both her personal journey and a broader commitment to expanding opportunity and representation in healthcare leadership.

Her connection to Jesuit values is longstanding. Growing up in Eastern Nigeria, Dr. Akunyili observed her father, a physician, caring for Catholic and Jesuit priests and seminarians—an experience that shaped her view of medicine as a form of service to others, a principle that continues to guide her leadership and family life.

Under her leadership, Jersey City Medical Center has advanced quality and patient safety initiatives, earning national recognition as a Best Hospital for Maternity Care by U.S. News & World Report and Newsweek for 2026 The medical center has also expanded its residency and fellowship programs in rheumatology and gastrointestinal medicine and hospitalist medicine administration, strengthening the pipeline for future physicians.

Dr. Akunyili’s work is grounded in a belief that high-quality care should be accessible to all communities. She is a strong advocate for community health, working to build trust between healthcare institutions and the populations they serve.

Appointed by the governor to the New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners, Dr. Akunyili also serves as an elected member of the Harvard Kennedy School Alumni Association Board of Directors. Her leadership has been recognized nationally, including being named one of the country’s “Black Healthcare Leaders to Know” by Becker’s Healthcare, as well as receiving the Dr. Gar LaSalle Medical Director of the Year Award and the American College of Emergency Physicians Rising Star Award.

Dr. Akunyili graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania and earned an M.B.A. from the Wharton School of Business. She received her medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine, completed her emergency medicine residency at McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, and earned a graduate degree in public administration from the Harvard Kennedy School,and now joins those distinctions with the Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, from �������� University. 

Her career reflects the very ideals celebrated at commencement service, purpose and a commitment to using one’s talents to serve others.

The post �������� University Announces Dr. Ije Akunyili as 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Speaker appeared first on News.