Seton Hall University will recognize its graduate student community during Graduate Student Appreciation Week, scheduled for April 13-17, 2026. The event is organized by the Office of Graduate Affairs in partnership with other campus departments and aligns with National Graduate Student Appreciation Week, which highlights the contributions of graduate students nationwide.
The week will include a variety of events aimed at fostering connection among students and providing access to campus resources. Christopher Cuccia, Ed.D., associate provost for Academic and Graduate Affairs, stated: “Our graduate students bring energy, expertise and perspective to every corner of the University. Through these events, we aim to foster community while ensuring students feel recognized, supported and valued throughout their academic journey.”
Activities will begin on Monday with welcome tables at both the South Orange and Interprofessional Health Sciences (IHS) campuses. At IHS, students can receive complimentary professional headshots for career development. On the South Orange campus, an interactive Interview Skills program will be available.
Campus offices such as the Career Center, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), DOVE, Disability Support Services, Office of International Programs, University Libraries and the Teaching, Learning and Technology Center will participate in activity fairs on Tuesday and Thursday. These fairs offer information about university resources along with refreshments, mini-massages and networking opportunities.
A dinner reception followed by a dessert social is planned midweek to encourage community building among graduate students from different disciplines and campuses. Registration is required for these events.
The week will end on Friday at the IHS campus with an “Ease-Your-Mind” event that includes chair massages and a pizza gathering.
In addition to social programming, there will be a food donation drive called “Our Grads Care.” Collection boxes will be placed at various events throughout the week. Donations will benefit local food banks through Seton Hall’s Division of Volunteer Efforts (DOVE).
Graduate Student Appreciation Week has expanded each year as part of Seton Hall’s efforts to support graduate students academically, professionally and personally. The university encourages all graduate students to participate in as many activities as possible; some require registration while others are open on a first-come basis. More details are available on the Graduate Affairs website.
