Celebrating 45 Years:
1980-2025
THE HISPANIC BAR ASSOCIATION OF NEW JERSEY CELEBRATES HISTORIC APPOINTMENT OF ANDRÉS ACEBO AS 13TH PRESIDENT OF NEW JERSEY CITY UNIVERSITY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 12, 2025
The Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey (HBA-NJ) proudly congratulates HBA-NJ member Andrés Acebo on his unanimous appointment by the New Jersey City University (NJCU) Board of Trustees as the institution’s 13th president.
Acebo, who has served as interim president since January 2023, becomes only the third Hispanic to lead a four-year public university in New Jersey and the youngest known president of a public institution in the state.
During his tenure as interim president, Acebo guided NJCU through the most critical period in its 98-year history. He reduced institutional debt by tens of millions, drove three consecutive semesters of double-digit transfer enrollment growth, secured the university’s first-ever positive financial outlook from Moody’s, and forged partnerships that strengthen access and opportunity. Most recently, he advanced the historic merger that will create Kean Jersey City, an institution that will benefit students well into the future.
In his remarks upon being installed as president, Acebo emphasized the need for higher education to be at the forefront of shaping future leaders, underscoring NJCU’s vital role in providing accessible pathways to success.
In response to Acebo’s appointment, HBA-NJ President Alex Fajardo made the following remarks: “Acebo represents both the promise of the American dream and the importance of representation in higher education leadership. Andy’s appointment is a milestone for the Hispanic community and for New Jersey. His journey from being the first-generation son of Cuban exiles to becoming the youngest university president in the state is an extraordinary example of what is possible. As a trailblazer in higher education, his accomplishments reflect the values of perseverance, service, and excellence that we at the HBA-NJ strive to foster in the community.”
Fajardo added: “The Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey celebrates this achievement and looks forward to supporting President Acebo as he continues to lead with vision, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to NJCU’s students and the community at large.”
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About The Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey
Founded in 1980, the HBA-NJ is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit association that is comprised of attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and other professionals who share a common interest in addressing the issues affecting Hispanics within the legal community.
The purpose of the Association is to serve the public interest: (i) by cultivating the art and science of jurisprudence, (ii) by advancing the standing of the legal profession, and (iii) by preserving high standards of integrity, honor, and professional courtesy among Hispanic lawyers.
Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey
P.O. Box 25562, Newark, NJ 07101
