The spirit of generosity came to life at Saint Peter’s University last week.
The University celebrated an unforgettable Saint Peter Day on Thursday, April 16, 2026; a celebratory day of giving that brings together students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends. What began as a fundraising goal of raising $600,000 quickly transformed into something even more meaningful, as the University community surpassed expectations and raised an impressive total of over $650,000.
“When we come together with a shared purpose, there is no limit to what we can achieve,” says Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., President of Saint Peter’s University. “This achievement reflects the strength, generosity and unity of our community.”
A total of 885 gifts from over 550 unique donors, an increase from last year’s results, helped fuel critical initiatives across campus, supported scholarships, Division I athletics and other programs that create opportunities for students across campus.
While the impact of giving was profound, the spirit of the day was just as powerful. Despite unseasonably hot weather, students showed up to try their hand at carnival games, enjoy a yummy assortment of food provided by Saint Peter’s Hospitality/Food Services, and strike a pose with friends in a photo booth.
One of the key highlights of the day’s activities was “Pie an Administrator or Professor,” where $3.00 bought the chance to launch a tin of whipped cream at brave volunteers Erich Sekel (Director of Community Service), Dan Bocchino (Interim Assistant Vice President for Communications & Marketing), Shaun Jacobs-Patterson (Executive Director, CASE), Christina Mortellaro (Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs) and Ahmad Williams (Associate Vice President, Chief Business Officer).
Donors showed strong support across a wide range of initiatives. The Saint Peter Fund led all areas with $223,000 raised, followed by the General Scholarship Fund, which brought in over $82,000 and exceeded its challenge goal. Class year giving was especially strong, with the Classes of the 1960s and 1970s leading participation and generosity in the Battle of the Decades Challenge. Numerous match and challenge opportunities were met or exceeded, unlocking additional funds across a broad range of campus initiatives and activities.
Participation spanned the entire Saint Peter’s network, with alumni making up the largest group of donors, followed by faculty and staff, friends, students and parents.
Although the celebration has ended, the mission continues. Supporters are encouraged to continue investing in the programs and opportunities that matter most, helping to ignite dreams and fund futures for generations of Peacocks to come.
Check out our Saint Peter Day 2026 photo album for more highlights!