In comparison to its glitzy neighbor in Princeton, NewJersey’s Montclair State University cuts a relatively low profile. But its impact on the region is just as profound.Montclair is New Jersey’s second largest public university, with 21,000 students – the majority of whom are racial minorities and half of whom are the first in their families to go to college.

Montclair is also among the top-ranked colleges inWashington Monthly’s 2025 College Guide and Rankings as a “Best Bang for the Buck” institution in the Northeast. In this sponsored episode, Montclair’s president, Jonathan Koppell, describes his institution as both public and public serving.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Montclair State University

03:23 Affordability and Financial Aid Programs

06:13 Work-Based Learning Experiences

09:28 Student Success and Retention Programs

12:04 Community Engagement and Public Service

15:29 Advice for Prospective Students