Passaic Today

Montclair State University has been named a Fulbright Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Leader for the fourth year in a row by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This designation places Montclair among 50 colleges and universities nationwide recognized for their commitment to providing educational opportunities.

Since its inception in 2021, Montclair has consistently received this honor, highlighting its active participation in the Fulbright Program. The program, founded by U.S. Senator J. William Fulbright in 1946, is known for facilitating international academic exchanges through various awards.

The university's involvement includes the English Teaching Assistant Program, which positions U.S. students as teaching assistants overseas to enhance foreign students' English proficiency and understanding of the United States. Since 2008, eight Montclair students have participated in these opportunities abroad based on academic merit and leadership potential.

Additionally, Montclair has hosted 90 international students under the Fulbright Foreign Student award and seen 18 faculty members awarded with the Fulbright U.S. Scholar award.

Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Junius Gonzales stated, “Montclair State University is committed to changing students’ lives by providing educational opportunities around the world,” adding that they are honored by this recognition for four consecutive years.

Montclair's designation as an HSI since 2016 supports Hispanic students through its Office of Hispanic Initiatives. Approximately 45% of incoming freshmen identify as Hispanic, contributing to the university's diverse student body reflective of New Jersey's demographics.