On October 4, 2024, the Saint Peter’s University community united to celebrate a momentous occasion – the inauguration of Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., as the institution’s 23rd president and the University’s first Hispanic president.
The day’s festivities drew a distinguished gathering of delegates from various sectors, including representatives from the U.S. Congress, State of New Jersey, Hudson County, Jersey City, the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU), the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus, the Archdiocese of Newark and representatives from academic institutions from across the country. The presence of these delegates underscored the significance of this event not just for the University, but also for the broader community.
State Senator Angela V. McKnight spoke warmly, pledging the state’s support, “We want to partner with you, we love you already and we know you are going to do a wonderful job.” Senator Raj Mukherji added, “Saint Peter’s stands as a symbol of excellence and resilience in the state. Considering Ellis Island, the quintessential beacon of immigration and the realization of the American Dream, is just a stone’s throw from where we stand, I love that Dr. Benitez is going to be the first Hispanic president of Saint Peter’s University.”
Jersey City Council President Joyce E. Watterman offered a reflection on the University’s close relationship with Jersey City, stating, “An open door is a welcome that makes a stranger a friend… In this city like no other, you have a friend.”
Other notable attendees included Congresswoman LaMonica R. McIver and Congressman Rob Menendez, whose words echoed the community’s hope for a fruitful tenure under Dr. Benitez’s leadership.
Guests of the event also heard greetings from The Most Reverend Gregory J. Studerus, Auxiliary Bishop of Hudson County; Catherine Tantillo, chair of the Hudson County Chamber of Commerce and global head of social impact at Lord, Abbett & Co.; Rev. Thomas B. Curran, S.J., J.D., president emeritus of Rockhurst University and longtime mentor of Dr. Benitez; and Rev. Joseph S. Costantino, S.J., superior of the Saint Peter’s Jesuit Community.
Members of the University family extended greetings to President Benitez, underscoring the collective aspirations for the University’s future. Brandy Garrett-Kluthe, Ph.D., associate professor of biology and vice president of the Faculty Senate, expressed, “Our University is a vibrant mosaic of students, faculty, staff, and administrators, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences from across the globe. This diversity, deeply rooted in our Jesuit commitment to being people for others, drives our collective achievements. While we acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead, we are equally aware of the extraordinary potential within our community. As we welcome President Benitez, we invite you to lead with us, dream with us and inspire us to reach new heights.”
Students and alumni also addressed the audience, including Marquis James ’25, president of the Student Government Association, and Rebecca Marcillo-Gomez ’23, ’24, graduate of the master’s program in public administration.
Dr. Benitez’s inaugural address resonated with themes of hope and gratitude. “Today is a day about our current students and future students,” he declared. Reflecting on the institution’s 152-year legacy, he added, “Our Jesuit mission is not just a source of pride; it is the foundation of everything we do.” Dr. Benitez shared his personal journey, noting that his time at Saint Peter’s has been filled with daily blessings. He emphasized the strength he draws from the University’s rich diversity and the dedication of its faculty and staff, saying, “This is truly not about me; it is about a collective of ideas that is going to move this University forward.”
The inauguration ceremony was preceded by a reverent Missioning Mass, led by Rev. Joseph M. O’Keefe, S.J., provincial of the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus, who served as the celebrant and homilist. Joining him as concelebrant was The Most Reverend Gregory J. Studerus. The service was filled with inspirational music directed by Joseph W. Hill, Jr., the University’s director of music. The Aidan C. McMullen Chorale of Saint Peter’s University, members of VOX: The Men’s Choir of Saint Peter’s Preparatory High School, the Saint Dominic Academy Glee Club and talented musicians, together delivered beautiful renditions that elevated the spirit of the occasion.
Earlier in the week, pre-inaugural events further set the stage for this remarkable celebration. The events included a Martin Luther King Jr. H ’65 Commemorative Mass, which celebrated the awarding of an honorary degree to Dr. King, another iconic moment in Saint Peter’s history; a special exhibit at the Theresa and Edward O’Toole Library titled Leadership Legacy: The Presidents of Saint Peter’s University; Peacocks Vote!, a mock election to prepare the community for the upcoming presidential election; the 2024 Deans’ Symposium; a toiletry drive to give back to the local community; an interfaith BBQ; and a Colombia Fest, where Latino pride was on full display to welcome the University’s first Hispanic president.
As Dr. Benitez steps into his new role, the Saint Peter’s community looks forward to a future built on the pillars of its Jesuit values, and the promise of continued growth under his leadership. With gratitude, hope and a renewed sense of purpose, Saint Peter’s is ready to embark on this next chapter.
