NJCU Signs International Partnership with Mexican University

New Jersey City University (NJCU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Fundación Universidad de las Américas Puebla (UDLAP), formalizing a three-year partnership to strengthen academic collaboration between the institutions. The agreement was signed during Governor Phil Murphy’s economic mission to Mexico and facilitated by Choose New Jersey.

The MOU establishes a framework for student, faculty, and administrative exchanges, study abroad programs, joint degrees, collaborative research, and academic conferences. Governor Murphy, who witnessed the signing, stated, “Mexico is New Jersey’s seventh-largest trading partner, and expanding educational opportunities will further strengthen the strong ties between our regions.”

NJCU President Andrés Acebo said the agreement reflects the university’s commitment to global education and Latin American partnerships. “As New Jersey’s oldest Hispanic-Serving Institution, NJCU has a special responsibility to build bridges with leading universities across Latin America,” said Acebo.

The agreement was coordinated by the Guarini Institute for International Education & Economic Mobility, led by Executive Director Dr. Adrián Franco. The Institute will serve as the liaison for implementing the partnership’s programs.

Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., and Chancellor for International Campuses Felice K. Vazquez also attended the signing. The event took place as NJCU prepares to merge with Kean University to form Kean Jersey City by July 2026.

“This academic collaboration builds on our efforts to connect New Jersey’s world-class universities with global partners,” said Wesley Mathews, President and CEO of Choose New Jersey.