Passaic Today

Montclair State University has announced a significant development for its honors program, now named the John Martinson Honors EDGE Program. The change follows a $5 million donation from philanthropist John Martinson, which will fund new initiatives aimed at broadening student opportunities in creativity, leadership, and interdisciplinary study.

The university hosted a welcome reception on September 8 to mark the start of the academic year and the 40th anniversary of its honors program. About 120 students and faculty attended the event.

Executive Director Jeff Strickland described this period as pivotal for the program. “Our vision for honors is bold – to expand access, to promote creativity and leadership, and to ensure that Montclair stands at the forefront of public honors education,” Strickland said.

President Jonathan Koppell addressed students at the reception, highlighting their role in shaping their own futures: “You have demonstrated commitment, curiosity and eagerness to develop your own potential,” he told them.

Provost Junius J. Gonzales encouraged students to use creativity as an advantage: “Make creativity your ‘competitive advantage in business, scholarship, in your work and future lives.’”

Students say the program has influenced both their academic paths and personal growth. Krishita Vaghani, a junior studying Computer Science, said: “Honors is not only preparing us for the future, it’s teaching us to create the kind of future worth living in.”

The gift from Martinson will support several enhancements for honors students. These include a $5,000 Creative Learning stipend for each student to pursue activities such as study abroad or research; plans for an Honors Leadership Certificate that integrates leadership training into coursework; interdisciplinary research clusters connecting faculty and students across fields; bringing distinguished visiting faculty to campus; and expanded collaborations through the Martinson Collaborative with other leading honors programs nationwide.

Montclair State University aims to grow its honors program enrollment to 1,000 students within five years. The long-term goal is to establish the John Martinson Honors EDGE Program as a stand-alone Honors College.

“These enhancements elevate Montclair’s position among public universities while giving students expanded avenues for discovery and impact,” Strickland said. “Honors EDGE is not just a curriculum – it is a community and a calling. It is about cultivating knowledge and creativity, not for ourselves alone, but for the larger public good.”