University Center sign lights up in Illumination Ceremony; towers almost complete

On Wednesday, September 22, Stevens held the Illumination Ceremony to commemorate the upcoming completion and opening of the University Center Complex. Hoboken Mayor Bhalla was in attendance along with President Farvardin, Stevens students, and faculty, who came together to watch the sign atop the left tower light up. The sign reads “STEVENS” in bright, red lettering. The buildings are on track to open Spring 2022 and will include a new fitness center, student workspaces, dorm rooms, and more.

Held at Pier C Park, the event began with “Cookies with Attila,” where Stevens students, staff, and alumni could interact and enjoy sweets and music before the official welcome. Attila, Stevens’ mascot, was there to greet and dance with guests, before the speeches.

The welcome, given by Stevens student Kevin Castner Jr. ‘23, was followed by speeches from President Farvardin and Hoboken Mayor Bhalla. (Correction: Kevin Castner Jr. ’24)

The University Center has been in the making for 10 years: from the idea, to the zoning, to the construction, there has been a great deal of collaboration between Stevens and Hoboken. In his speech, Farvardin stated that the completion of such a large-scale project “is a moment that will define this university for many years to come,” and further emphasized how the center will allow Stevens to keep advancing while providing students with a world-class education and dynamic experiences.

The night concluded with a countdown to light up the sign, starting from 10 and ending at one. Attendees then shouted “Stevens” as the sign made its mark; fireworks went off in red and silver colors for approximately 10 minutes after the lighting.  

Mayor Bhalla and President Farvardin reiterated that the lighting of the Stevens sign is symbolic of the work that has been done to get through hardships in order to accomplish goals and plans; it has led to the collaboration between Stevens and Hoboken and, in the words of Mayor Bhalla, led to the “growing in height both figuratively and literally.” Farvardin acknowledged that without the effort and dedication of Stevens faculty, staff, and students, along with Hoboken city council and residents, the reopening of campus and the creation of University Center Complex would not be achievable.

Photos by Kaiden Goz for The Stute.