About the Hughes Center

Mission and Activities

The William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton University is nonpartisan, advancing Stockton’s Mission, Vision, Guiding Principle, & Core Values. As a policy center at a public institution of higher education, we play a critical role in preparing New Jersey's workforce and providing people with access to educational and other opportunities.

The Hughes Public Policy Center serves as a catalyst for research, analysis and innovative policy solutions, the economic, social and cultural issues facing southern New Jersey, and across the state. The Center also serves as a forum for public discussion of policy issues so as to engage both citizens and policy makers, frames policy issues in a manner that encourages broader civic engagement and strengthens the voice of southern New Jersey in the public debate.

The Hughes Public Policy Center's core activities include:

  • Public opinion polling on elections, policy, and political trends
  • Policy research to inform decision-makers and the public
  • Public event series featuring prominent speakers
  • Election debates and forums to connect voters with candidates
  • Podcast series on timely policy issues and debates
  • Partnering with faculty researchers on timely policy issues
  • Financially supporting student interns in Washington D.C. with transportation scholarships
  • Providing students opportunities to intern and work with faculty on policy research and civic engagement

Through these initiatives, the Hughes Center enhances Stockton University’s visibility beyond Southern New Jersey, attracting notable speakers and media recognition in major national outlets.

Public Speaker Series

The Hughes Public Policy Center hosts public events featuring influential voices from New Jersey and beyond, including policymakers, public service advocates, journalists, and media professionals. Supported by donors and Stockton University, these free events promote civic dialogue and community engagement.

We welcome speaker suggestions and collaboration opportunities with organizations and individuals committed to public policy and civic engagement.

Civic Engagement and Leadership in New Jersey

The Hughes Public Policy Center fosters civic engagement through partnerships and programs such as:

  • Hosting election debates that connect voters with candidates at local, state, and national levels.
  • Recognizing civic leadership through a biannual Hughes Center Honors event celebrating public service in New Jersey.
  • Collaborating with organizations like the American Association for State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) to advance democratic participation of students and community members.

An Advisory Board of prominent regional leaders provides strategic guidance and broad community support.

Polling and Research on Elections, Political Trends, and Policy

Stockton Polling at the Hughes Public Policy Center conducts independent public opinion polling on:

  • New Jersey voter behavior and turnout trends
  • Election analysis and political dynamics
  • Salient policy issues affecting the public and key stakeholders

The Center also supports faculty research.

Contracted Survey Research Services

The Hughes Center is also available for contracted research services for government agencies and private clients who need to conduct surveys for needs assessments and other projects.

Continuing the Legacy of Ambassador William J. Hughes

In memory of Ambassador William J. Hughes, who passed away on October 30, 2019, the Hughes Center for Public Policy continues to promote civic engagement and civility in public conversations, honoring his legacy and dedication to public service. The Center’s mission is to inspire effective participation in public policy matters and to serve as a watchdog on policy issues for Southern New Jersey and beyond.

 

Founding and Support

The establishment of the Hughes Center was marked by Stockton University’s first $1 million endowment, announced at its dedication on May 22, 2008. This endowment was the culmination of a successful fundraising effort, demonstrating public support for the Center’s mission. 

Legacy of William J. Hughes

The Hughes Center was named for the late Ambassador William J. Hughes of Ocean City, whose distinguished career included service in the U.S. House of Representatives, as Ambassador to Panama, and as a Distinguished Visiting Professor at Stockton University. Ambassador Hughes was a native of southern New Jersey, and his career in public service spanned over 50 years, dedicated to the prosperity and freedom of the American people.

Throughout his career, Bill Hughes sponsored numerous projects and initiatives to create jobs, protect the environment, and improve the quality of life in southern New Jersey. Serving in the U.S. House of Representatives for two decades, he was a prominent leader as Chairman of various subcommittees, focusing on crime, retirement income and employment, intellectual property, and judicial administration. Bill Hughes was instrumental in sponsoring legislation to prohibit ocean dumping, protect beaches, enhance the region’s tourism industry, and coauthored the historic legislation that established New Jersey’s Pinelands National Reserve.