Former U.S. Rep. Congressman Frank Guarini has gifted $10 million to New Jersey City University, which will go towards starting and Institute for International Studies and a performing arts center.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“For decades Frank Guarini has demonstrated his support of New Jersey City University and now, more than ever, is critical to the continued bright future of our community,” NJCU President Dr. Sue Henderson said in a statement.
“On behalf of our students, their families and the generations of graduates to come, I want to thank Frank for his incredible generosity and investment in our vision and mission to empower all that call upon us. Both of these projects will significantly impact our county to create jobs, provide housing and foster Jersey City’s growth as a world class city to usher in a new era for our students and communities.â€
Born and raised in Jersey City, Guarini received his Undergraduate and Juris Doctor and Master of Law degrees from Dartmouth College and New York University School of Law respectively, and pursued advanced studies at The Hague Academy of International Law in the Netherlands.
A congressman between 1979 to 1993, Guarini is now a real estate developer and philanthropist – he also donated $10 million to St. Peter’s University back in September.
“NJCU has been a powerful advocate and important cornerstone of our community for almost 100 years,” he added.
“Dr. Henderson has brought a vision and vitality to this great institution and built an incredible team whose dedication to the needs of our students is impressive and inspiring. It has been an honor to witness their transformation under her leadership and I am proud to support these far reaching, impactful projects.â€
The Guarini Performing Arts Center aims to be a world-class, 25,437 square-foot theatrical showplace comprising of a 492-seat theatre, complete with orchestra pit and fly stage, a 100-seat recital hall, two large dance studios for both rehearsal and performances with exterior glass walls looking out to a large public plaza, performers’ dressing rooms, scenery fabrication shop and storage, grand lobby and special event space.
As for the Guarini Institute, that project seeks to extend beyond regional and national boundaries and focus on three key areas: research that explores the inter-connections between the global future of work and higher education.
Additionally, they’ve highlighted goals to prepare students through abroad experiences and global work opportunities for the global future of work, as well as creating international partnerships with institutions of higher education, businesses, and organizations that foster and advance the global nature of work.
