A Message from President Harvey Kesselman

In Fall 2021, Stockton University will begin its 50^th year of teaching. As a member of that very first class of 1,000 student in 1971 (and one who never really left), I can say from experience that it has been a tremendous thrill to watch Stockton grow and be a part of its success.

Though the campus has changed dramatically, our mission has not. We still believe in putting students first and teaching them to become active and engaged members of their communities, and to adapt to a changing world.

The stories in this issue of Stockton Now reflect how that mission is put into action throughout the University.

A new race and racism requirement for students beginning this fall will ensure that all students understand the history and impact of race and racism in America. The new requirement is part of Stockton’s commitment to be a leader in social justice issues.

When Stockton’s animal lab took in almost 1,000 rescued baby terrapins this summer it made international news. But Stockton and community members have been rescuing baby terrapins for decades, raising them for a year or so, then releasing them back into their natural habitat in South Jersey.

More than half of Stockton students are the first in their families to attend college. Programs like Sankofa are providing mentors and resources to ensure those students graduate and develop the skills they need to succeed in the world.

When Gianna Graw, ’18, recently donated a kidney, it set off a chain of kidney transplants that traveled across the country. She had learned about kidney donations during her time at Stockton, and was inspired by her father, a Jersey City police officer who died of cancer while she was in college.

These accounts are just a few of the inspirational and motivational stories that embody the Stockton spirit. This past year has been a tremendous challenge, including masks and online classes, and we are thrilled to be welcoming our students and faculty back, in person, this fall. We’re planning a series of stories and events for the 50^th Anniversary and beyond. I invite you to learn more, and share your own memories, on our 50^thAnniversary website, stockton.edu/50.