New Chapter Begins For Martinson Honors EDGE At Montclair State University

Press release from Montclair State University:

Montclair State University’s John Martinson Honors EDGE Program is marking a milestone year, propelled by a transformative $5 million gift and new initiatives that expand student creativity, leadership and engagement. At a recent welcome reception, the University signaled its commitment to fostering innovative academic experiences and deeper community ties.

Major Gift Fuels Change

A $5 million gift from philanthropist John Martinson is powering program enhancements that expand interdisciplinary and experiential learning, with a focus on:

Executive Director Jeff Strickland described this as a defining chapter: “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.”

Reception Welcomes Students

A welcome reception kicked off the John Martinson Honors EDGE (Engage, Discover, Grow, Experience) Program on September 8, gathering about 120 honors students and faculty. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the honors program at Montclair.

Speaking to the energy of the new academic year and the program’s milestone, President Jonathan Koppell emphasized the centrality of creativity and social transformation.

“You have demonstrated commitment, curiosity and eagerness to develop your own potential,” he told the students.

Provost Junius J. Gonzales reinforced this challenge, urging students to make creativity their “competitive advantage in business, scholarship, in your work and future lives.”

Students credit the program with shaping their academic direction and personal growth. Krishita Vaghani, a junior in 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.”

Expanded Experiences and Opportunities

The anniversary year ushers in expanded academic, creative and leadership opportunities for honors students:

Montclair envisions growing its program to 1,000 students within five years and positioning the University to evolve the John Martinson Honors EDGE Program into a stand-alone Honors College.

“These enhancements elevate Montclair’s position among public universities while giving students expanded avenues for discovery and impact,” Strickland noted. “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.”

Ready to Start Your Montclair Journey?

Learn more about admission criteria to the John Martinson Honors EDGE Program and take your first step in applying to become a Red Hawk.

This press release was produced by Montclair State University. The views expressed here are the author’s own.