ROI-NJ

Moody’s has upgraded New Jersey City University’s issuer and revenue bond ratings to Baa3 from Ba2 and placed them under review for a potential further upgrade. The move reflects progress toward NJCU’s planned merger with Kean University, including a legislative commitment from the state and ongoing financial restructuring efforts such as reducing debt and stabilizing liquidity. With $205 million in outstanding debt as of mid-2025, the university’s improved outlook also highlights its continued role as a regional higher education provider as it prepares to operate as Kean Jersey City following the expected July 2026 merger. Read more: https://lnkd.in/e4KZkFhd

A Mahwah-based business leader is being recognized for his impact during National Small Business Week 2026. The SBA’s New Jersey District Office named Sean Xu, founder and president of Tri-State Civil Construction, as the state’s local honoree, highlighting his company’s work in deep foundation solutions, construction dewatering and geotechnical services. Xu will be recognized as part of the national celebration from May 3-9, which honors small businesses that drive job creation and economic growth across the country. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eXQh6hiz

Cancer mortality rates fell in New Jersey even as national data showed worsening outcomes during the pandemic. The New Jersey Hospital Association reported an 18.8% decline in cancer deaths from 2016 to 2024, based on statewide data analysis. The findings stand in contrast to national studies showing increased mortality among patients diagnosed during COVID-19, underscoring a different trajectory in the state. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ebtK5GbT

Gov. Mikie Sherrill has signed legislation revising restrictions on hemp products and intoxicating hemp beverages through November 2026. The bill allows licensed hemp producers to transport and possess intermediate cannabinoid products with THC levels above 0.3%, provided they are not intended for direct consumer use and meet safety requirements. The measure also removes prior THC limits on hemp beverages, sets a 750-milliliter container cap and establishes a transition period for sales by ABC and CRC licensees through Nov. 13. Read more: https://lnkd.in/e62sBRMB

CoreWeave is securing significant capital to fuel its next phase of growth in AI infrastructure. The company announced it has closed an $8.5 billion delayed draw term loan facility, marking the first investment-grade rated financing tied to HPC infrastructure and customer contracts. With the ability to draw up to $7.5 billion initially and expand further, the structure supports continued platform expansion and positions the company to meet increasing demand for AI cloud services. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eYCw27eJ

Stockton University has named Professor Brian Tyrrell as the new faculty director of its Lloyd D. Levenson Institute for Gaming, Hospitality and Tourism. Tyrrell will assume the role July 1, succeeding Jane Bokunewicz, who is set to retire June 30 after leading the institute. A longtime faculty member in Stockton’s School of Business, Tyrrell has more than two decades of experience in hospitality and tourism education and played a role in the formation of the LIGHT institute. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eFKJugm3

The HELIX Innovation District in New Brunswick is adding new dining and community destinations. DEVCO and DHS Hospitality Group revealed plans for the return of Clydz and the debut of Strand Market, positioning both as anchor tenants within the health and life sciences hub. With Clydz bringing its nationally recognized cocktail program into a new setting and Strand Market introducing a food hall concept, the additions aim to enhance the district’s mix of science, business and lifestyle offerings. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eUViRrRx

New Jersey saw a notable decline in cancer mortality during a period when national outcomes worsened. A New Jersey Hospital Association study found an 18.8% drop in cancer deaths from 2016 to 2024, including the years of the COVID-19 public health emergency. National research cited in the analysis showed a 13.1% increase in deaths within one year of diagnosis during the pandemic, highlighting the divergence between New Jersey’s results and broader U.S. trends. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ebtK5GbT

ROI-NJ: Women of Inspiration continues with Jana Boyer, executive director of Blood Cancer United, a leader dedicated to advancing research and improving outcomes for patients facing blood cancer. With more than two decades of experience in the nonprofit space, Boyer is helping drive innovation, expand support and bring new hope to patients and families navigating complex diagnoses. Read more by Sally Glick: https://lnkd.in/edpeD2gE

The College of New Jersey has received a record 14,400 applications for its incoming Class of 2030. The milestone reflects growing demand for the school’s academic offerings, as well as increased campus visits from prospective students evaluating its programs and campus environment. With an acceptance rate of 62.14% and a student body of about 7,500 undergraduates, admissions leaders say interest is being driven by a focus on academic quality, career outcomes and a close-knit campus experience. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eEfWhzhe