Celebrating 25 Years as a University

On June 27, 1997, William Paterson College became William Paterson University, as the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education granted the institution university status based on the its breadth of graduate programs and a rigorous review of programs, faculty, and facilities. “We are now positioned to pursue our destiny as a dynamic center of educational excellence,” said then President Arnold Speert.

Here are 25 examples of the University’s growth and development in the past 25 years.

Celebrating University Status in 1997

Allan and Michele Gorab Alumni House Dedicated in 2003

Opening of University Commons in 2008

New MBA choices were introduced in 2007 with concentrations in accounting, finance, and music management

Civic Engagement

Nel Bolger Nursing Lab Opens in 2008

First Graduates of Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2014, WP's First Doctoral Program

University Hosts Third Gubernatorial Debate in 2017

Power Art Building Opens in 2008

Expanded and Renovated Science Complex Dedicated in 2012

WP's 2010 Solar Panel Installation Ranks Among the Largest for Universities

Russ Berrie Institute of Professional Sales

Cheng Library Transforms itself in Digital World

Brave New Radio WPSC 88.7 FM Wins Numerous Awards

The Pesce Family Mentoring Institute Established

Undergrad Research in the Sciences Gives Students an Edge

Power Art Center Opens in 2000

University Hall Opened in 2016

University Hosts 50th Anniversity Celebration of EOF in 2019

Center for Diversity and Inclusion and Black Cultural Center Grand Opening in 2019

Center for Chinese Art Established in 2009

University's Living Jazz Archives

WP Designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution in 2014

University's Fully Online Degree Platform Launches in 2020

Barbara Moll Grant Hall Dedication