Press Room
Photo of College Hall Bell Tower
University News
December 17, 2024

10 Reasons It Was a Year to Love at Montclair State University

Celebrating the biggest moments, achievements and milestones in 2024

Posted in: University

A graduate smiles and holds up their hands in the shape of a heart
For our graduates, students, faculty and staff, 2024 was filled with unforgettable moments. (Photo by Mike Peters)

1. Big Events and Bright Moments

From heartwarming moments to headline-making stories, 2024 was a year to remember – and love at Montclair State University. The Povolo quintuplets – Victoria, Ludovico, Ashley, Michael and Marcus – made New Jersey history in May, walking across the Commencement stage one after the other to earn degrees in five different majors. Their story captured national attention, with features on The Today Show and CBS Evening News.

They weren’t the only ones making the news. Charley, Montclair’s golden retriever and “Director of Pawsitivity” for the women’s basketball team, stole hearts nationwide, including appearing in People and on the Sherri show.

And Montclair alum Josh Dela Cruz ’11, host of Blue’s Clues & You!, returned for Homecoming to cook and chat on Cooking with Koppell about his Broadway career and offer students advice on breaking into show business.

The Povolo quintuplets, wearing graduation caps and gowns, stand together on stage at Montclair State University's 2024 Commencement ceremony. Each holds their diploma while smiling alongside university officials in academic regalia.
The Povolo quintuplets make history. (Photo by Mike Peters)

2. Students Tackled the News of the Day

Alumni covering the Paris Olympics and students studying film and television in Los Angeles showcased how Red Hawks made their mark on the world stage in 2024.

Journalism students reported on critical issues ahead of the presidential election, traveling to a battleground state to cover immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border. Arizona Stories: Border, Water and Politics was nominated for excellence at the prestigious College Television Awards (known as the “College Emmys”).

In 2025, Montclair will elevate the School of Communication and Media to a stand-alone college, underscoring its growing impact and global reach.

A student holding a video camera hugs another student in the desert.
First-generation students Jennifer Sanchez, left, and Aylin Alverez-Santiago console each other after an emotional interview at the U.S.-Mexico border. (Photo courtesy “Arizona Stories”)

3. We Made a Difference in the World

Through civic engagement, environmental advocacy and community service, Montclair students and faculty worked to build a better future. From securing grants to expand Native American and Indigenous Studies to providing internships addressing climate change and supporting communities still recovering from COVID-19, Montclair advanced justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. The University’s recognition with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose highlights its commitment to meaningful change for the public good.

2024 student interns in the PSEG Institute for Sustainability Studies Green Teams program present their research findings on the environmental and health impacts of grass versus artificial turf to Verona city officials.
Each summer, the PSEG Institute for Sustainability Studies Green Teams program helps community and corporate partners solve environmental and climate challenges. Shown, 2024 student interns present their solutions to environmental and health risks and benefits of grass versus artificial turf to city officials in Verona. (Photo by Mike Peters)

4. Starting Early to Foster College Success

Montclair’s pre-college and early-college programs helped high schoolers set academic goals and explore their passions, paving the way for success in college and beyond.

Last summer, around 400 students participated in early-college experiences, including the Summer Bridge Scholars Program, Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF), Health Careers and a new Career Exploration program that’s part of the University’s One Square Mile initiative with the City of Paterson. These initiatives provided incoming freshmen with a supportive transition from high school. Programs were also offered at Bloomfield College of Montclair State University.

With classes like film production and pre-med, the expanded Pre-College Summer program offered immersive learning experiences for high school students in grades 9-11.

Special events, sponsored by the Office of Hispanic Initiatives and EOF, welcomed students from underrepresented and low-income communities. These events introduced them to the admissions process, financial aid resources and campus experiences, helping break barriers for Black, Latine and first-generation students.

A group of students shine flashlights on their cell phones.
Montclair’s summer programs prepare students for college life. (Photo by John J. LaRosa)

5. Mental Health and Well-Being Remained a Top Priority

We expanded resources and support for student wellness, ensuring that every Red Hawk thrives academically, emotionally and socially. Montclair demonstrated its commitment to mental health with new initiatives like Nap Pods and Zen Dens and Sensory Spaces, and secured a $3 million grant to integrate counseling services into internships. Montclair’s furry friends are also an essential part of campus wellness.

Members of the Montclair State University women's basketball team pose together on the basketball court with two dogs: Pebbles, a small brown labradoodle, being held by one of the players, and Charley, a golden retriever, sitting in front and looking at the camera.
Red Hawk women’s basketball players share a moment of love with Pebbles, the campus’s mini labradoodle pupscot, and Charley, the team’s “Director of Pawsitivity.” (Photo by John J. LaRosa)

6. Research and Innovation That’s Shaping the Future

From cutting-edge robotics to impactful environmental studies, Montclair is leading groundbreaking research shaping the future. Professors and student researchers are exploring childhood navigation skills, advances in human-robot collaboration, VR-driven character education programs, and the impacts of storms on marine life.

Busra Anil, a Montclair State University student wearing a red and white patterned hijab and black sweater, speaks with a guest during the Spring 2024 Mario M. Casabona Future Scientists Competition. She stands in front of her research poster on carbon sequestration, explaining her findings.
Busra Anil ’24 discusses her research on carbon sequestration during the poster session at the Spring 2024 Mario M. Casabona Future Scientists Competition, which recognizes students for making research accessible and understandable. Mentored by Dr. Ying Cui, Anil, who graduated with a degree in BS in Earth & Environmental Science, earned first place in the competition. (Photo by John J. LaRosa)

7. Academic Growth and Recognition

The University earned prestigious awards and celebrated key milestones that highlight Montclair’s growth and success. Notable achievements included being named a Fulbright HSI Leader, rising in national college rankings and welcoming our most diverse and accomplished incoming class to date.

Students participating in a processional, proudly holding the flags of their respective countries during Montclair State University's flag-raising ceremony for Hispanic Heritage Month.
Montclair State University, a proud Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), kicks off the celebration of Hispanic and Latine heritage and culture in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. (Photo by Mike Peters)

8. We Revolutionized Social Media Engagement 

When it comes to social media, Montclair discovered the secret sauce. Our Digital Communications team produces engaging, dynamic content that captures the true Montclair experience. @montclairstateu ranks as the top Instagram account among New Jersey colleges and universities, taking the No. 1 spot for followers, engagement and Reels reach. One standout star is Montclair’s beloved mascot, Rocky, who transformed from a fierce bird of prey into a softer, more animated and agile Red Hawk.

Follow us on social media:

Rocky the Red Hawk sits atop a bronze Red Hawk statue.
Rocky the Red Hawk mascot is soaring high after his significant upgrade.(Photo by Mike Peters)

9. We Collaborated with a City on the Rise

Montclair’s continued partnership with Paterson brought two impactful projects to life in 2024: the Charles J. Muth Museum at Hinchliffe Stadium and the One Square Mile initiative. Both projects reflect Montclair’s commitment to civic engagement and historical preservation.

Video by Christodoulos Apostolou

10. Celebrating Graduates and Milestones

Graduations in 2024 were more than just ceremonies – they were celebrations of resilience, achievement and bright futures. Among the graduates were many first-generation students proudly earning degrees, alongside inspiring stories of determination and triumph: From an N.J. grandmother who achieved her dream after five decades, to a first-gen student overcoming childhood tragedy, to football stars transitioning from the field to the business world, and an actor who debuted on Broadway before even finishing his degree. Milestones included Montclair’s inaugural White Coat ceremony for Audiology students and the SGA president advocating for change from campus to Capitol Hill. 

Video by Christodoulos Apostolou

Are You A…

Prospective Student or Parent? Plan your visit and take your first step in applying to become a Red Hawk!

Journalist? Contact our Media Relations team for assets or to schedule an interview.