New Jersey City University has announced a $10 million gift from former New Jersey state senator and U.S. congressman Frank J. Guarini to help establish an international studies institute and performing arts center.

The largest gift in the university’s history will establish the Frank J. Guarini Institute for International Studies and Guarini Performing Arts Center. The institute will be dedicated to research that explores connections between the global future of work and higher education; study-abroad experiences and global work opportunities; and international partnerships with businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other institutions of higher education. The 25,437-square-foot performing arts center will feature a five-hundred-seat theater, a recital hall, two large dance studios, dressing rooms, a scenery fabrication shop and storage area, and space for special events. In addition, the center will partner with the Joffrey Ballet School to offer prospective students a collaborative NJCU-Joffrey BFA in Dance program.

Born and raised in Jersey City, Guarini served as a lieutenant in the Navy during World War II and received his law degree from New York University School of Law.

"For decades, Frank Guarini has demonstrated his support of New Jersey City University and now, more than ever, is critical to the continued bright future of our community," said NJCU president Sue Henderson. "On behalf of our students, their families and the generations of graduates to come, I want to thank Frank for his incredible generosity and investment in our vision and mission to empower all that call upon us. Both of these projects will significantly impact our county to create jobs, provide housing, and foster Jersey City’s growth as a world class city to usher in a new era for our students and communities."