The Michael B. Gilligan Student Union Building: A Hub of History at New Jersey City University
The Michael B. Gilligan Student Union Building stands as a focal point on the campus of New Jersey City University (NJCU), formerly Jersey City State College. Its history is intertwined with the evolution of the university itself, reflecting its growth from a teacher-training school to a comprehensive liberal arts institution.
From Normal School to University: The Genesis of NJCU
NJCU's journey began in 1927 when it was chartered as the New Jersey State Normal School at Jersey City. In 1929, the institution opened its doors, pioneering a three-year teacher education program, the only one of its kind in the United States at the time. Over the years, the institution underwent several transformations, becoming the New Jersey State Teachers College in Jersey City in 1935 and Jersey City State College in 1958. In 1968, it transitioned into a multipurpose institution, authorized to develop a liberal arts program and expand its teacher preparation programs. Finally, in 1998, the institution achieved university status and was renamed New Jersey City University (NJCU).
The Student Union Building: A Center for Campus Life
In 1976, a significant addition to the campus landscape was made with the opening of the Student Union Building. This building quickly became a central hub for student activities, events, and gatherings. In 1985, the Student Union Building was renamed the Michael B. Gilligan Student Union Building, honoring Michael B. Gilligan, a prominent figure associated with the university.
A Hub for Events and Activities
The Gilligan Student Union Building has hosted a variety of events throughout its history. For example, the Hudson County History Fair has been held in the Multipurpose Room of the Gilligan Student Union Building. The fair, organized by the Hudson County History Advocates, features speakers, film presentations, antiques appraisals, and exhibits related to local history and genealogy. The fair celebrates New Jersey's 350th anniversary with speakers such as Holly Metz, Steven Hart, and John Gomez, who discuss their books on local history. Other speakers include Joseph Bilby, Neal Brunson, and Cynthia Harris, who present on various aspects of New Jersey and Hudson County history.
The building also hosted the First Student-Athlete Reception.
Read also: Read about Michael Gilligan's contributions
A Place for Athletics
The Michael B. Gilligan Student Union Building is not solely dedicated to academic or historical pursuits. It also plays a role in athletics. Judy Davis, for example, won the Division III A.I.A.W. championship.
NJCU's Transformation and Expansion
The construction of the Student Union Building coincided with a period of significant growth and transformation for NJCU. The campus expanded sixfold, with the number of buildings and facilities increasing from one to 26. The academic focus broadened beyond teacher preparation to encompass 32 undergraduate and 19 graduate degree programs. The student body also grew, drawing students from across New Jersey, the United States, and around the world.
Key Developments in NJCU's History
Several key developments marked NJCU's evolution:
- 1955: The first physical expansion took place with an addition to Hepburn Hall and the construction of Fries Hall Gymnasium.
- 1962: Grossnickle Hall, a four-story academic building, opened.
- 1968: The Forrest A. Irwin Library opened, marking the institution's transition to a multipurpose institution.
- 2000: The NJCU Library was dedicated and renamed the Congressman Frank J. Guarini Library.
- 2003: The Visual Arts Building and the University Academy Charter High School opened.
- 2006: The George Karnoutsos Arts and Sciences Hall, designed by Michael Graves, was dedicated.
- 2015: The NJCU School of Business opened at Harborside Plaza 2.
- 2016: The university continued to develop University Place, its 21-acre West Campus.
- 2021: The university opened an off-site campus location, Squier Hall, at Fort Monmouth.
Enhanced Environments and Modern Facilities
NJCU has consistently invested in enhancing the student experience through state-of-the-art campus facilities. In addition to the Gilligan Student Union Building, other notable additions include:
- Vodra Hall (1963), the first dormitory.
- The Forrest A. Irwin Library (1968), rededicated as the Congressman Frank J. Guarini Library in 2000.
- The Athletic and Fitness Center (1994), dedicated in 2005 as the John J. Moore Athletics and Fitness Center.
- A new Visual Arts Building with a sculpture garden (2003).
- The Michael Graves-designed George Karnoutsos Arts and Sciences Hall (2006).
In 2015, the NJCU School of Business opened at Harborside Plaza 2, featuring instructional spaces, data science centers, a simulated trading floor, and a waterfront conference center.
Read also: JCC Alumni Success Stories
NJCU Today: A Vibrant and Diverse Community
NJCU has transformed from a school for area residents into a diverse community welcoming students from around the world. Its campus includes 27 buildings over 51.46 acres, supplemented by off-campus facilities like the Harborside facility for graduate business programs and the "Communiversity" partnership with Brookdale Community College.
Read also: Student Accessibility Services at USF
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