JERSEY CITY, N.J. – April 15, 2026 – BT University co-sponsored and hosted an Immigration Summit on April 15, bringing together students, community members and leaders for a timely conversation on immigration, justice and the role of higher education. The event featured keynote remarks from Jersey City Mayor James Solomon.
The summit reflected BT University’s mission and long-standing commitment to advocacy, inclusion and the dignity of all people.
BT University Chaplain Fr. Rocco Danzi, S.J. spoke and emphasized the deep connection between immigration and Jesuit values, noting that the two have gone hand in hand for more than 500 years. Grounded in cura personalis—care for the whole person, he spoke about the importance of looking beyond documentation to recognize each individual’s humanity. He highlighted the call to be “men and women for and with others,” rooted in shared humanity, solidarity, social justice and hospitality.
President Hubert Benitez underscored the University’s responsibility to lead with intention and purpose. “We are honored by your presence, Mr. Mayor. You are a true friend,” said President Benitez. “This work is driven by vision, collaboration, hard work and a commitment to justice. “President Benitez highlighted the impact of immigrant communities in higher education, noting that their contributions extend far beyond the classroom.
“Immigrants bring knowledge and perspective shaped by resilience, cultural richness and lived experience,” he said. “Immigrant leaders play a vital role in our universities,they mentor students and challenge institutions to grow. There is power in students seeing leaders who reflect their own journeys. It shows what is possible. “He added that many students must navigate systems not originally designed with them in mind, reinforcing the need for institutions to act with intention.
“We are called to educate and accompany in order to create pathways of access with intentionality,” President Benitez said. “As the first Latino and immigrant president of this University, it is my responsibility to open doors that lead to a more inclusive future.”
Mayor Solomon, a former adjunct professor at BT University, spoke about the City’s efforts to support immigrant communities and uphold public trust. He referenced an executive order signed early in his administration at Liberty State Park, recognizing the historic journey of immigrants arriving through Ellis Island and reinforcing the City’s commitment to inclusion.
“We want residents to feel safe contacting the police to report crimes without fear,” Solomon said, outlining policies that distinguish between judicial warrants and administrative detainers. He emphasized that city agencies will not be used to support federal immigration enforcement efforts, while acknowledging the limits of mayoral authority.
“No mayor has the power to ban federal enforcement, but we will use our voice and work diligently to protect our community,” he said. “Jersey City was built by immigrants, and our policies are about defending that legacy.”
At the conclusion of the event, Mayor Solomon presented a formal proclamation to President Benitez in recognition of BT University’s ongoing commitment to education, community engagement and support for immigrant populations.
The Immigration Summit reinforced BT University’s role as a convener of critical conversations and a leader in advancing justice through education and community partnership.