What began as private swim lessons has grown into a year-round program offering swim instruction, a competitive swim team and a summer camp, introducing children of all ages to the sport while building confidence both in and out of the water. The idea was born shortly after graduation. As former Division I swimmers, the trio had already been teaching individual swim lessons when Bilonic suggested bringing everything together under one program.

“We were all teaching private swim lessons,” said Mrkic. “Right after graduating, it was Lovro’s idea to put a name to it and make it more organized.”Working with the elementary school where she was teaching at the time, Mrkic helped introduce the program to local families by offering lessons taught by former Division I student-athletes.

Today, Swim Stars teaches children the fundamentals of swimming before progressing to stroke development and technique across all four competitive strokes. But for the founders, the program has always been about more than swimming.

“Outside of the pool, we’ve created a community,” said Mrkic. “A lot of kids have become friends, and even their families have built relationships through our program.”

Watching students grow in confidence has become one of the most rewarding parts of the experience. “It’s awesome to see them getting better, becoming more confident and being proud of themselves,” Bilonic said. “Seeing parents happy and thankful for teaching their kids is incredibly rewarding. You can never have a bad day when you’re surrounded by kids who are smiling and having fun.”

Now entering its 12th year, the program continues to serve families throughout the region while maintaining its connection to Saint Peter’s University.

“It’s lovely to know the kind of outreach this program has had,” Pawka said. “We’re forever thankful to Saint Peter’s for trusting us with its facility and continuing to work with us. It’s the best thing that has happened to us.”

For Bilonic, Mrkic, and Pawka, returning to the same pool where they competed as student-athletes is a reminder that the lessons learned at Saint Peter’s continue long after graduation and that giving back to the next generation is one of the greatest rewards of all.

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Saint Peter’s was one of only 12 New Jersey colleges and universities to receive a four-star rating or higher in the publication’s latest rankings. Only one institution in the state received the highest possible five-star rating, placing Saint Peter’s among an elite group of colleges recognized for providing a high-quality education and strong return on investment.

Money’s annual rankings assess four-year colleges and universities using 25 measures of educational quality, affordability and graduate outcomes, including graduation rates, tuition costs, financial aid, student debt and alumni earnings. Rather than producing a traditional numerical ranking, the publication assigns star ratings to institutions that demonstrate outstanding value for students and families.

The recognition reflects Saint Peter’s longstanding commitment to providing an accessible, student-centered Jesuit education that prepares graduates for meaningful careers and lives of purpose. As one of New Jersey’s leading private universities, Saint Peter’s continues to invest in innovative academic programs, personalized learning experiences and career-focused opportunities that help students succeed both during their time on campus and long after graduation.

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The newest members of the Peacock family officially began their Saint Peter’s University journey as the Class of 2030 gathered on campus for New Student Orientation, a day filled with excitement, inspiration and opportunities to build lasting connections.

Incoming students and their families were welcomed by University leadership before embarking on a full day designed to introduce them to the academic, social and spiritual experience that awaits them at Saint Peter’s University.

Setting the tone for the day was a motivational keynote presentation by Jeff Dess, co-founder of Trill or Not Trill, one of the country’s most engaging leadership institutes. The keynote encouraged students to embrace their authentic selves, lead with confidence and begin their college experience with purpose, reminding the newest Peacocks that success starts with believing in themselves and the community they are about to join.

Throughout the day, current Saint Peter’s students played a leading role in welcoming the next generation of Peacocks. The Orientation Team guided incoming students across campus, offering student-led tours, sharing their own experiences and providing firsthand insight into life at Saint Peter’s. From navigating campus to answering questions and introducing campus traditions, the student leaders helped create an atmosphere where every new student felt welcomed from the moment they arrived.

Students also participated in sessions focused on academic success, financial planning, classroom expectations and building new friendships through interactive Peacock Meet & Greet activities. Families attended dedicated sessions highlighting the University’s commitment to supporting students both inside and outside the classroom, reflecting Saint Peter’s Jesuit tradition of Cura Personalis—care for the whole person.

The day concluded with the Peacock Party at Panepinto Plaza, where students, families and orientation leaders came together to celebrate the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

With two more new student orientations within the coming weeks, we’re thrilled as the Class of 2030 prepares to arrive on campus this fall! If you have not registered for one of the upcoming orientations yet, you can do so here.

New Student Orientation marks more than the start of an academic journey. It marks the beginning of lifelong friendships, new opportunities and a place within the Saint Peter’s family.

Welcome to the flock, Class of 2030. We can’t wait to see all that you’ll accomplish.

The post Welcome to the Flock: Class of 2030 Begins the Saint Peter’s Journey appeared first on News.

photo courtesy of Trish Gianakis

The year-long project transforms Liberty State Park into an interactive outdoor museum, combining augmented reality, public art, and historical storytelling to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary. Visitors use their mobile phones to experience immersive digital installations and educational content throughout the park.

The Jersey City Times article highlights Professor Gianakis’ creative vision and the role of emerging technologies in expanding access to art and historical storytelling.

The University community is invited to learn more about the exhibition by reading the Jersey City Times feature and following the project as it continues throughout the coming year.

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When Megan Callahan Sherman, Ph.D., MSW, LCSW  began her career at Saint Peter’s University in May 2025, she was asked by her colleagues what a child-first center would do for the community. 

“Well,” she recalls answering. “That’s going to be determined by the community.” 

Kids in Jersey City face numerous barriers to educational success, including overcrowded classrooms, limited resources, rising rates of mental health challenges and declining literacy levels.

“That’s really the mission of the Center for Child and Human Development,” says Sherman. “To meet with community stakeholders, children, families, educators, hospitals, different social service agencies to really determine where there’s a gap in service.” 

“We walk in and say, ‘How can we help?’” 

Located on the second floor of the Caulfield School of Education, the Center for Child and Human Development is a campus-based resource center for the children and families of Hudson County. By partnering with local schools, healthcare providers and nonprofit organizations, the Center develops interactive programs, trains future professionals (like the first-ever cohort of the Masters of Social Work program) and expands access to services that promote healthy development, educational success and family well-being, particularly for underserved communities.

The space also serves as a quiet place for neurodivergent members of the Saint Peter’s community to visit and unwind. 

Walking into the Center for Child and Human Development is like taking a step back in time to your early school days; the former storage space turned classroom is equipped with tools for kids of all ages. Colorful pictures promoting kindness, empathy and belonging hang on the wall. A bookshelf is stacked with books. In the front of the classroom, 16 Dell laptops lay charging next to a SMART interactive whiteboard. 

“Technology access is another big issue, so students can come in here, settle into the space and use our computers and wifi.” says Sherman. 

The Center plans to host a formal grand opening in the Fall, but in the interim, Sherman encourages anyone interested in getting involved with the Center to reach out to her directly. 

“Students at Saint Peter’s are very intrigued and eager to help,” she says. 

Learn more about the Center of Child and Human Development.

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The gathering brought together leaders of Jesuit institutions to reflect on the shared mission of Catholic, Jesuit higher education and its role in addressing the most pressing challenges facing society.

The Holy Father began his address by highlighting the “multitude of challenges facing humanity today” in a time that “has been called an age of epochal change.” Pope Leo XIV encouraged university leaders to remain faithful to the Jesuit tradition of intellectual excellence while preparing students to lead with wisdom, compassion, and ethical responsibility in an increasingly complex world.

Pope Leo XIV also emphasized the need to care for the poor and those immigrating to the United States “in a time when record numbers of our brothers and sisters are living in poverty.” He said many people are forced to leave their homes due to war, religious or political persecution, hunger, or climate change. Pope Leo insisted that the Jesuit higher education institutions are not only called to promote the common good and solidarity but also “to offer opportunities for immigrants, refugees, and those of a lower socio-economic status to have the benefit of an advanced education.”

The presidents also met with Fr. Arturo Sosa, Superior General of the Society of Jesus, who reflected on the global mission of Jesuit education and the vital importance of collaboration among the Society’s colleges and universities. He challenged the presidents to cultivate the leadership, discernment, and vision needed to respond effectively to the evolving needs of today’s world.

The Vatican visit reaffirmed the shared commitment of Jesuit colleges and universities worldwide to educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—while responding to the evolving needs of society through academic excellence, ethical leadership, and service.

“The opportunity to gather with fellow Jesuit university presidents and hear directly from Pope Leo XIV and Fr Sosa was both inspiring and affirming,” said Dr. Benitez. “Their message reminds us that Jesuit education has an essential role to play in forming graduates who possess not only knowledge and professional expertise, but also the moral courage and compassion needed to address the challenges of our world.” In a deeply personal moment with Pope Leo, Dr. Benitez asked His Holiness to bless Saint Peter’s University and all those who make its mission possible, praying that we may continue to extend the promise of a Jesuit education to students whose determination often exceeds their opportunities, transforming not only individual lives but families, communities, and future generations.

The Vatican meetings concluded with a renewed commitment among Jesuit institutions to strengthen their collaboration and continue preparing students to become thoughtful leaders dedicated to faith, justice, and the service of humanity.

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Photo courtesy of frankguarini.com

The Saint Peter’s University community is saddened by the passing of Hon. Frank J. Guarini H ’94, a distinguished public servant, philanthropist and lifelong champion of Jersey City whose generosity and leadership left an enduring mark on the University community.

Guarini received an honorary degree from Saint Peter’s in 1994 in recognition of his extraordinary public service and longstanding commitment to the University. Over the decades, he deepened that relationship through his service on the University’s Board of Regents and through transformative philanthropic support that advanced Saint Peter’s mission and strengthened opportunities for generations of students.

The Frank J. Guarini School of Business, named in his honor following a historic gift that helped elevate the University’s business programs, facilities and student opportunities, continues to reflect Guarini’s belief that higher education should prepare ethical, forward-thinking leaders who will serve their professions and communities with integrity. In addition to the business school, both Guarini House and the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership are named in honor of the late Congressman.

A Jersey City native who grew up across the street from Saint Peter’s, Guarini often spoke of the special bond he felt with the University and the pride he took in its role as a cornerstone of the community. His dedication to Saint Peter’s, and to the people of Hudson County, will continue to inspire students, alumni, faculty and staff for years to come.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Guarini family and all who were touched by his remarkable life and legacy.

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More than 1,250 attendees were in attendance to listen to discussions by a diverse roster of speakers. was in attendance and a special video message was delivered to the crowd of attendees by New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill.

The afternoon was highlighted by a fireside discussion between New Jersey City University President Andres Acebo and Saint Peter’s University President Hubert Benitez, moderated by NJBIZ reporter Matthew Fazelpoor.

Also in attendance from Saint Peter’s were members of the President’s Cabinet – Dr. Guillermo DeVeyga, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer; Paula Mercado-Hak, Vice President and General Counsel & Chief External Affairs Officer; and Daniel Bocchino, Interim Assistant Vice President for Communications and Marketing.

Both university presidents discussed the culmination of the 2025-2026 academic years on their campuses, highlighted by their recent commencement ceremonies. President Acebo noted that the NJCU commencement served as the last ceremony the university would have as an independently run institution, while President Benitez celebrated the return of commencement to the Saint Peter’s campus.

Dr. Benitez reaffirmed the university’s standing in the Jersey City community, noting that while high school students within New Jersey often leave the state to attend college elsewhere, the focus for both local schools should be on educating the local workforce to support Hudson County and the surrounding communities. He remarked that “The hallmark of Saint Peter’s is keeping our Jesuit values in all we do as an engine of workforce development” for the community at large. Dr. Benitez went on to discuss the newly opened Health Education, Simulation and Innovation Suite at the School of Nursing and Health Professions, highlighting Saint Peter’s commitment to significantly expanding nursing enrollment and leveraging this and other innovative learning spaces to strengthen its presence across a range of health care disciplines and workforce development initiatives.

President Acebo acknowledged the sometimes divisive role AI plays in education, and noted that it can be democratizing in terms of educational opportunities and should be used intentionally in conjunction with business development. The leaders reiterated a commitment to educating the local Jersey City and Hudson County community. Dr. Benitez specifically highlighted Saint Peter’s designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), with programs offered entirely in Spanish, while emphasizing that the University’s distinguishing characteristic is not simply what it does, but how it does it: delivering an accessible, well-rounded education grounded in the Jesuit values that guide its mission and commitment to forming students for lives of purpose, leadership, and service.

As both Saint Peter’s and NJCU focus on their next chapters of their evolution, the focus at Saint Peter’s will continue to be on revitalizing and reimagining the school’s place as the Jesuit university of New Jersey, offering a value-based education accessible and affordable to all.

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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 Saint Peter’s University’s continued commitment to advancing research, scholarship and global engagement.

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

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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 Saint Peter’s. She represents the very best of Saint Peter’s 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 Saint Peter’s 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 Saint Peter’s 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, Saint Peter’s 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.

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