Another milestone of Stockton University’s expansion in Atlantic City arrived May 3 as former President Harvey Kesselman officially opened a new student residence hall in the city’s University District.

“I want you to know how excited we are to finally step inside and tour this amazing new building,” he said. “Today represents another incredible milestone on this exciting journey.”

The 135,000-square-foot, six-story building is located at the corner of Atlantic and South Providence avenues in the Chelsea section of the city. It’s just a short walk from the rest of the Stockton Atlantic City campus, which opened in 2018.

The new Parkview Hall complex features apartment- and suite-style living with a total of 416 beds. Most of the suites include four single bedrooms, a common area, two bathrooms and a full kitchen. There’s also a lounge on each floor, meeting room, business center and laundry facilities. Students have views of the beach, Boardwalk and O’Donnell Park and access to a courtyard with outside seating.

“Today marks a significant milestone for our institution as we celebrate the opening of yet another state-of-the-art facility that will provide our students a safe, comfortable and welcoming home away from home,” said Raymond Ciccone, the former chair of the Stockton Board of Trustees.

Kesselman noted the new residence hall continues the “incredible partnership” between Stockton, the city of Atlantic City, Atlantic County, regional and state leaders and the Atlantic City Development Corporation, known as AC Devco.

The president also mentioned the support of New Jersey State Assembly Majority Leader Louis Greenwald, who Kesselman said has “been one of Stockton’s staunchest allies in fighting for equity in higher education funding.”

Greenwald talked about how important Stockton has been to diversifying the business industry in the city and transforming it from “a gaming city to a city with gaming.” But Greenwald said he’s most impressed with what residents have told him about Stockton’s presence in Atlantic City.

“They have come forward to say that Stockton has transformed the community,” he said. “It has made it safer. It has increased their property values. It has become a destination point for people. That was part of the vision.”

State Senator Vincent Polistina echoed Greenwald’s comments and commended Kesselman for seeing the new building’s plans come to fruition. 

“It’s important to remember that when Dr. Kesselman took this on, this was a risk. A lot of people said, ‘What are you doing going into Atlantic City?’” Polistina said. “But his foresight, his vision, his dedication, his perseverance led us to where we are today. When you look at the transformation of this part of Atlantic City, it’s unbelievable.”

Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, a 1998 Stockton graduate, said the opening was “another historic day for my alma mater.”

“Stockton is an important renaissance of the great city of Atlantic City,” he said. “It’s springing a rebirth city wide.”

Jon Hanson, chairman of AC Devco, commended Kesselman and the University for their partnership and forward thinking. “Congratulations to all. I’m proud of the work that we were able to do here,” he said.

Ciccone reiterated that the new residence hall is evidence of the University’s commitment to the city.

“This new building is more than just a place to live. It represents our commitment to excellence in all areas of University life,” he said. “It is a space where students will build lifelong friendships, pursue their passions and achieve their dreams. We are proud to offer our students the very best that this new building exemplifies.”

The first cohort of students to call the building home moved in prior to the beginning of the Fall 2023 semester.