Saint Peter’s University announced recently it received a $150,000 grant from Investors Foundation, an Investors Bank foundation created in 2005 to support the banks it serves.
The grant, the Jersey City-based school said, will help expand and improve its athletic and recreational facilities.
The Victor R. Yantelli S.J. Recreational Life Center is Saint Peter’s hub for its Division I athletic program and recreation activities, it said. This space currently serves more than 3,500 students, alumni, members of Jersey City’s community and local youth programs.
“We believe an investment in the RLC will stimulate quality enrollment, increase student retention, engage the community and raise the university’s profile,” Eugene J. Cornacchia, president of Saint Peter’s University, said. “We are incredibly grateful to Investors Foundation for the continued support of our mission and the recognition of the value of this space for the University community and beyond.”
The university said it plans to invest in this space to better serve its student-athletes, the growing intramural programs and the community.
“As an alumnus, I have very strong ties to Saint Peter’s University,” Bob Cashill ’64, Investors Foundation president, said. “The Foundation’s grant will help strengthen the university, which serves a diverse and motivated student body. Each year, more than 50 percent of the undergraduates become the first members of their family to graduate from college. We are honored to provide the resources and assistance that helps support Saint Peter’s dedication to educating, inspiring and shaping the character of our next generations of leaders.”
Long term plans for the renovated facility include modernizing its basketball arena, a new roof field house with a multipurpose floor, new renovated locker and fitness rooms, a sports medicine area, new training rooms and more.
“The current foundation grant continues the long and mutually-beneficial relationship between our community-focused organization and Saint Peter’s University,” Kevin Cummings, CEO and chairman of Investors Bank, said. “As the project moves ahead, students, faculty and alumni will use the modern facilities for intercollegiate athletics, fitness and recreation. The university also opens the gym to its neighbors and this connection enriches both the university and Jersey City’s families.”
