Bergen Man Gives Largest Gift In School History To St. Peter's U.

A Bergen County man has given a $10 million gift to Saint Peter's University in Jersey City.

Joseph Panepinto has given the largest philanthropic gift to the Jesuit school in its 150-year history. The university will use the money to grow the West Campus, among other initiatives.

"Some of the most important part of our community are its charitable and nonprofit institutions," Panepinto said. "Education is certainly a very important one. Therefore, by supporting Saint Peter's we are supporting the future growth of our community."

Panepinto has owned Panepinto Properties, a real estate development company, for more than 40 years. He is also a member of the university's Board of Trustees.

"We are incredibly grateful to Joe for this extraordinary gift and for his confidence in Saint Peter’s ascent," said Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University. "Throughout his career, Joe has maintained a commitment to his beginnings – in Jersey City and at Saint Peter’s. We take great pride in the unstoppable growth of Saint Peter’s and the city alike. There is no doubt that leaders like Joe have helped to make this mutual success possible."

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com

Photo: Joseph Panepinto (Courtesy of Saint Peter's University)