Passaic County Community College (PCCC) celebrated a major milestone on Thursday, October 16, 2025, with the launch of its outdoor Fitness Court® in the college’s Outdoor Wellness Courtyard. Known for over 50 years as a hub for student-centered, high-quality education, PCCC now offers its students and local residents a premier space to engage in bodyweight exercises across seven dynamic zones, supporting physical, mental, and emotional wellness.

The day began with a VIP reception in the Paterson Room, where Fitness Court ambassadors welcomed dignitaries and project supporters with light refreshments. Attendees included PCCC leadership, local civic leaders, and project sponsors. After mingling, the VIP group was escorted to the Outdoor Wellness Courtyard to begin the official launch ceremony.

Todd Sorber, PCCC Vice President for Institutional Advancement, served as emcee, opening the ceremony with a warm welcome. Sorber, along with Meredith Behrens, Director of Foundation & Marketing/Communications, were instrumental in planning the event and creating an engaging experience for attendees. Their combined efforts ensured a seamless and exciting launch, from the VIP reception to the Fitness Court demonstration and Wellness Fair.

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Leadership remarks followed from Dr. Steven M. Rose, PCCC President; Dr. Kineavy, Senior Vice President for Academic & Student Affairs; and Dr. Brown-Johnson, AVP/Dean of Student Affairs. Local dignitaries, including Mayor André Sayegh of Paterson, also shared remarks and proclamations recognizing the collaborative effort behind the Fitness Court.

“Unless PCCC students and local residents maintain good physical, mental, and emotional health, they are unable to achieve their educational and career goals and lead fulfilling lives. The outdoor Fitness Court® is a strategic investment that will benefit all Passaic County residents for many years to come,” said President Rose.

Sponsors were also recognized, including Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield and the PCCC Student Government Association. Gary D. St. Hilaire, Horizon’s Chairman and CEO, highlighted the value of partnerships that strengthen community wellness: “Investing in Fitness Courts is another way Horizon is working to empower our members to achieve their best health, while partnering with community organizations to build a healthier New Jersey. As New Jersey’s hometown health insurer, we’re focused on making good health more affordable and more accessible. The opportunities created by our partnership with National Fitness Campaign builds on Horizon’s ninety-year history of supporting local organizations and improving the health of New Jersey’s communities.”

After the VIP Reception, the ribbon-cutting ceremony officially opened the Fitness Court. Staff led a countdown as a select group of participants—including college leaders, dignitaries, and sponsor representatives—cut the ribbon, followed by a group photo to commemorate the moment.

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The launch continued with a warm-up activity and a full Fitness Court demonstration led by PCCC Exercise Science students. Attendees enjoyed watching athletes showcase both beginner and advanced exercises across all seven zones, accompanied by music to energize the crowd. Following the demonstration, the Wellness Fair provided an opportunity for attendees to engage with PCCC and partner agencies at tabling events, offering resources and educational materials to promote healthy living. A cultural arts performance by Prinkipo—a music ensemble inspired by the sounds of the Mediterranean, Balkans, and Middle East, reimagining timeless folks songs that unite cultures and bring people closer together—added a celebratory close to the event.

The launch of the Fitness Court reflects PCCC’s commitment to holistic student experiences and community wellness. By providing a dedicated space for physical activity and health education, PCCC, in partnership with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield and National Fitness Campaign, continues to create lasting opportunities for students and residents alike. PCCC’s Fitness Court is more than a new facility—it’s a blueprint for community health and engagement.

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