Accepted Student Day Sparks Passion for St. John’s

St. John’s University set the stage for an exciting college experience as it welcomed more than 1,800 future Johnnies and their families to the Queens, NY, campus for Accepted Student Day.

The popular annual event,  on Saturday, April 5, provided the enthusiastic crowd with opportunities to examine academic and service offerings, tour the storied campus, and visit state-of-the-art learning facilities, such as the St. Vincent Health Sciences Center, which opened for the fall 2024 semester. The University is additionally devising plans for a new student recreation center, an academic innovation center, and a practice facility for the St. John’s Red Storm basketball teams. The Men’s Basketball team recently captured its first BIG EAST Championship in 25 years under the leadership of Head Coach Rick Pitino, 2025 BIG EAST Coach of the Year, 2025 Naismith Men’s College Coach of the Year, and 2025 Associated Press National Coach of the Year. 

“The basketball team just had a spectacular season! But the most important thing about St. John’s is not basketball and it’s not new buildings–it is the people here at St. John’s. We have incredible faculty and staff dedicated to a singular mission–our students,” said Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., University President, during remarks he delivered at the Accepted Student Day pep rally inside Carnesecca Arena.

Noting St. John’s commitment to educating first generation and immigrant students for more than 150 years, Fr. Shanley said, “What we offer is the promise of a better life for our students and their families. We will help you lead meaningful lives. We will help you be economically successful. We will help you realize the potential that God has given you when you come to St. John’s.”

Fr. Shanley was introduced at the pep rally by DJ Zeke, also known as Ezekiel O. Akinyemi ’08TCB, owner of DJ Zeke Entertainment, and who traditionally hosts the event. “Our St. John’s leaders include all parents. I want you to thank your parents right now! If you love your parents, scream!” The young people in the audience obeyed DJ Zeke’s heartfelt command with a roar of approval.

The pep rally also featured performances by the St. John’s Pep Band, Dance Team, Kickline Team, and Cheerleading Team. 

Simon G. Møller, Ph.D., Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, University Distinguished Professor, and Provost Endowed Chair, said Accepted Student Day remains one of his favorite events at St. John’s. “During their visit, students experience our excellent academic programs and faculty, cutting-edge learning environments and a vibrant student life. Students will firsthand picture themselves on campus, in classrooms, in one of the many specialized learning spaces and will be encouraged to become leaders in their field of study, in their community, and in the world.”

Hailee Mitura, 18, a senior at Westlake High School in Mount Pleasant, NY, was one of numerous students who registered to attend St. John’s next fall. Noting she plans to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation and wants to major in Criminal Justice and explore forensic psychology, Hailee said, “St. John’s is exactly where I want to go for my college career. I came for a tour earlier and fell in love with the school. I really appreciate how St. John’s gives you exactly what you need to forge bonds with others.”

Throughout the day, visitors toured the campus. They interacted with current Johnnies, faculty, and staff, participating in various fun activities and engaging information sessions that enabled them to learn more about the St. John’s experience.

Parent Frank Chiodi, Jr., of Bellmore, NY, was delighted that his son, Frank M. Chiodi, chose to attend St. John’s for the fall 2025 semester. “I absolutely think St. John’s has one of the best campuses for any student to learn and to have personal and spiritual growth, and to become an independent person.”

Kevin Bermudez, 17, a senior at Epic High School–South in South Ozone Park, NY, attended Accepted Student Day to further his knowledge about St. John’s. “I love how big the school is. There is so much to do here!”

New features of the event included a Nursing Lab Experience, held in the health sciences center for would-be future nurses, and a Pharmacy Lab Experience. St. John’s hosted meetings with faculty and deans; a Student Services Fair where guests spoke with representatives from various departments; a Center for Student Success Information Session; a Study Abroad Information Session, and the Battle of the Orgs contest, where high schoolers and their families enjoyed performances by the University’s performing arts organizations. 

“Congratulations to our accepted students! We know that the next few years will open many doors to our Future Johnnies. Accepted Student Day is an important step in connecting with their future peers, meeting our incredible faculty, and networking with the many members of the St. John’s community who will support them on their St. John’s journey,”  said Samantha R. Wright, Chief Enrollment Officer. 

2025 Recap Video