Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop presented New Jersey City University (NJCU) President Andrés Acebo with an official proclamation on Nov. 13, recognizing his “extraordinary vision” in guiding the university through the most critical period in its 98-year history.
The proclamation specifically honors Acebo for orchestrating a “remarkable financial and academic recovery” from a fiscal emergency—a turnaround the Fulop states “will be a case study throughout higher ed.”
Acebo, a Hudson County native and the youngest known president to lead a regional public comprehensive university in New Jersey, assumed leadership in January 2023. Since then, he has:
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Stabilized Finances: Led the university to its first balanced operating budget since 2017 and saw Moody’s Ratings upgrade NJCU’s outlook from “negative” to “stable” in February 2024 (and later to “positive” in May 2025).
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Spearheaded Strategic Plans: Introduced the NJCU Recovery and Revitalization Plan, the university’s first Academic Master Plan, and its first Strategic Enrollment Plan.
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Secured the Future: Advanced a historic merger with Kean University, signing a definitive agreement in October 2025. The merger, once completed, will integrate the two mission-aligned institutions and create “Kean Jersey City.”
The recognition ceremony at City Hall was attended by City Council Ward E Councilmember James Solomon and Ward B Councilmember Maureen Hulings, demonstrating strong community support for the university’s leader.
The proclamation concluded with Fulop extending congratulations to Acebo, a proud first-generation son of Cuban exiles, and wishing him continued success.
