Petersheim Academic Exposition Launches with Keynote from The Most Rev. Bernard A. Hebda, Coadjutor Archbishop of Newark  

The Most Rev. Bernard A. Hebda, coadjutor archbishop of Newark, delivered the keynote address at the opening ceremony of the Petersheim Academic Exposition, Seton Hall's week-long symposium highlighting the scholastic accomplishments, scientific research and art projects of undergraduate and graduate students. Offering a brief history of how the past three popes viewed the importance of universities, the archbishop encouraged all at the University to pursue “the truth, the good, the beautiful.”

"In the search for the truth about man, the Church is interested not only in promoting the study of theology, but also the arts and the sciences," he said. "I am thrilled when I see the faculty and the students at our Catholic university excelling in original scientific research and in the arts, and I have no doubt that God is glorified."

Archbishop Hebda spoke of a harmony between faith and reason that students will come to know through their studies.

"A place that encourages the pursuit of truth will be a place that leads people to God," he said. "It is my hope that the student who throws herself into the study of anatomy might get an overwhelming glimpse of the Creator's love as she studies the intricacies of the human hand."

University President A. Gabriel Esteban highlighted the Exposition’s theme in his welcoming remarks.

“This year’s theme – Share, Honor and Unite – reflects a key part of our educational foundation at Seton Hall. The work by our faculty and students as they create new knowledge and share with their colleagues reflects a deep commitment to academic excellence and unites our university. It also honors past scholars as we build upon their work,” said Esteban.

Physics professor Jose L. Lopez co-chairs the Petersheim Academic Exposition and was the master of ceremonies at the opening event.

"Professor Petersheim started this program nineteen years ago with the intention of showcasing students and what they were accomplishing outside the classroom. He recognized that students were actively engaged outside the classroom, but lacked a forum at Seton Hall to demonstrate their independent scholarly pursuits. Petersheim is about building a community and giving students an opportunity to present their work,” he said.

The opening ceremony also featured the Interdisciplinary Poster Presentation at which Seton Hall students from various schools and programs presented their scholarly research and informally answered questions from those attending the event. Also presenting their research were 80 students from North Star Academy College Preparatory High School in Newark. The seniors each spent 16 weeks on campus, conducting research with Seton Hall professors, in a program that is designed to encourage them to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) degrees in college.

“Two years ago we realized only 6% of our graduates pursued STEM degrees. Since partnering with Seton Hall, 56% of our seniors report that they intend to pursue a STEM-related major,” said Michael Mann, North Star principal. “The program is important for getting them used to the rhythm of a college campus. It also puts them in an environment where they have to advocate for themselves and manage professors in a manner that is different from high school. It makes it more likely that their transition to college will be more successful.”

A variety of exhibits, performances and lectures are scheduled as part of the exposition. For more information and a list of all of the events, visit the Petersheim Academic Exposition website.