Dear Editor:
As the founder of the NJ Tech Meetup and proud Hoboken resident, I am writing to express my strong support for Stevens Institute of Technology’s application for the development of the Academic Gateway Complex, to be located on Hudson and Sixth Streets.
My relationship with Stevens began approximately 5 years ago when, as a Hoboken resident, I contacted the somewhat faceless university, pleading for a location to host our growing monthly gatherings. The then-current administration was apprehensive, but agreed to allow our few hundred member NJ Tech Meetup to meet on campus.
Since then, the NJ Tech Meetup has grown into NJ’s largest technology and entrepreneurial community of over 4100 eager members. Not only have we held our meeting on Stevens campus nearly every month for the past 5 years, I’ve had the pleasure to get to know many of its fine students, faculty, and administration. I couldn’t be more impressed with their overall commitment to excellence and their dedication to collaboration with the town. The NJ Tech Meetup would not be the entrepreneurial pillar that it is today without the support of Stevens. I don’t just think of Stevens as the host of the NJ Tech Meetup, I consider them a partner in our pursuit of establishing Hoboken and NJ as an entrepreneurial and startup beacon.
When local startups have asked for support in hiring talent and finding resources, it’s often the Stevens students and faculty who jump in to lend a hand.
I’ve been privileged to moderate the Stevens Innovation Expo and work with student teams, to witness firsthand the passionate work coming out of the university students and faculty.
Over the past several years, I’ve been welcomed by the new campus administration including Dr. Nariman Farvardin. I’ve been honored and impressed by his commitment to be included in the community with some major decisions he undertakes, including the impressive Stevens Strategic Plan. It’s clear he values the community input and wants Stevens to shine as a neighbor.
When I first heard of this new development, I was unsure of what it may mean and not immediately certain I’d want to lend support. As a resident and homeowner, I can appreciate the desire not to alter the community landscape. However, Stevens fielded my questions and suggestions with sincerity. As I understood the project, I grew more excited about its need and potential. I understand that because of the Stevens community outreach, their plans for the space have since been adjusted to accommodate some of the community concerns. This exemplifies Stevens commitment to being a caring and considerate neighbor in town.
I’ve seen firsthand how Stevens is desperately in need of new space. I’ve watched as other regional academic institutions improve to attract the best talent. I’m encouraged that Stevens is taking this major step forward in a modern innovation and academic facility.
Please consider your support for this project and let’s all welcome this advancement in an institution in town in which we should all take pride.
Sincerely,
Aaron Price
Founder, NJ Tech Meetup
Founder, Rocketfuel.cc
Hoboken Resident