National Academy of Construction Elects NJIT's Andrew Christ Amid Campus Transformation

Written by: Andrew McMains
Published: Tuesday, June 6, 2023
The SVP for real estate development and capital operations at the opening of the Maple Hall apartment complex

Andrew Christ, senior vice president for real estate development and capital operations at New Jersey Institute of Technology, has been elected to the National Academy of Construction.

The academy recognizes exceptional leaders from across the construction industry — including construction managers, contractors, designers, educators and financial managers — who advance the industry through innovation and lasting improvements.

“It’s an incredible honor,” said Christ, an NJIT alumnus who holds two engineering degrees and became an administrator in 2014. “This is an organization that’s extremely well-respected within the industry and it’s a very exclusive group. It’s a tribute not only to me but also to my incredibly talented team and our NJIT community.”

During Christ’s tenure, the university has completed some $600 million in construction and building renovations that have transformed its campus in Newark. Key projects include the construction of the Makerspace, Wellness and Events Center, Maple Hall and Life Science and Engineering Center and the renovation of the Central King Building, Faculty Memorial Hall and dozens of labs and classrooms.

Christ becomes the fifth Highlander to join the academy, which also elected alum Glenn Steiger ’70, ’87 this year. The other members are Senior University Lecturer Andrew Ciancia, Board of Trustees Co-Chair Nicholas DeNichilo ’73, ’78 and alum Patrick Natale ’70, ’75, who serves on both NJIT’s Board of Overseers and the Board of Visitors for its Newark College of Engineering (NCE).

Natale, who nominated Christ with support from DeNichilo and Ciancia, is particularly impressed by his planning, knowledge and calm mien, adding, “He helps NJIT grow, expand and attract new students with our fantastic facilities!”

NCE also recognized Christ this year, with an Outstanding Alumni Award at its 25th Salute to Engineering Excellence. His NJIT degrees are a bachelor’s in civil engineering and a master’s in civil engineering and construction project management.