An Important Merger Update for Our Campus Community

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students,

I am writing to share a historic and hopeful milestone in our university’s journey toward long-term sustainability and growth. Yesterday, Gov. Phil Murphy signed into law legislation advancing the merger between New Jersey City University and Kean University, which formally authorizes NJCU’s full transition into the Kean University system. This achievement marks a defining moment in our collective effort to secure the future of an institution that, for nearly a century, has embodied access, excellence, and opportunity in Hudson County and beyond.  
 
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Kean University President Dr. Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. and to all our colleagues across both universities who have worked tirelessly to ensure the long-term sustainability of our indispensable mission. Their partnership and commitments have helped make this moment possible and will continue to guide the work ahead as we build a stronger, more unified public university system for New Jersey. 
 
This is a momentous step forward for our campus and the community we serve. For nearly 100 years, NJCU has served as a vital pathway to public higher education in Hudson County and Jersey City, rooted in a deep commitment to access, opportunity, and community. Through this merger, that mission will continue and be strengthened. The merger will enhance NJCU’s longstanding values by providing our students with access to expanded academic offerings, enhanced resources and support services, and new research and career opportunities, all while remaining rooted in the Jersey City community that we are proud and privileged to serve.  
 
The legislation also includes a $25 million appropriation specifically designated to support our transition and the integration of shared services. This investment will help ensure continuity in academic programs, strengthen student services, and support the operational work needed as we move forward together. 
 
Additionally, NJCU has been awarded $44 million for campus infrastructure improvements, which is one of the largest single infrastructure investments on our campus in decades. These resources will enable us to address essential facility needs, modernize our campus, and ensure our physical spaces reflect the quality and aspirations of the institution we are building. 
 
The merger remains subject to review by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the U.S. Department of Education. In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to keep you informed as we move through this process. 

You can learn more about yesterday's announcement here: https://www.kean.edu/news/governor-murphy-signs-law-advancing-kean-njcu-merger-transforming-higher-education-new-jersey.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our campus, our mission, and the students we serve.

Yours in service,

Andrés Acebo
President
New Jersey City University