Mission & Goals

Mission

The New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) ensures access to higher education for motivated, low-income New Jersey residents who face economic and educational disadvantages. Through comprehensive academic, developmental, and leadership support, EOF helps students gain the skills and resources needed to enter, succeed in, and complete college. The program advances equity by fostering a diverse, college-educated population that reflects the people of New Jersey.

Program History

The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) was created in response to social unrest following the 1967 Newark riots and a statewide call to address economic and educational inequities. Guided by the Lilly Commission’s recommendations and Governor Richard Hughes’ Moral Recommitment message, EOF was established through legislation sponsored by Thomas Kean.

The program became a national model in higher education by introducing innovative strategies—such as precollege preparation, academic remediation, retention initiatives, peer support, multicultural education, leadership development, and outcomes-based evaluation—that are now standard practices across colleges and universities.

First-Year & Transfer Student Goals

  • Help you transition successfully into college by providing access to a supportive summer and first-year experience designed for your academic success.
  • Support your persistence from your first year through graduation by helping you build strong study habits, confidence, and academic skills.
  • Connect you to career exploration opportunities early so you can begin shaping your academic and professional goals from your first year onward.
  • Ensure you have coordinated support by working closely with faculty, advisors, and campus programs that support your learning and growth.
  • Inspire a strong sense of responsibility, motivation, and commitment to your own learning and success.
  • Provide personalized mentoring, academic advising, career guidance, and financial counseling to help you stay on track toward graduation.
  • Engage you in leadership development and civic involvement so you can grow as an active, confident participant in a diverse and global community.