Former NJIT President Saul Fenster Passes Away at 91
NJIT mourns the passing of Saul K. Fenster, the university's sixth president, who died peacefully at his home in Long Branch, New Jersey, on March 15, 2025. He was 91 years old.
Dr. Fenster served as president of NJIT from 1978 to 2002, a tenure marked by significant growth and transformation. Under his leadership, NJIT expanded its campus and broadened its academic offerings, which included the founding of the Martin Tuchman School of Management, the Jordan Hu College of Science and Liberal Arts, the Ying Wu College of Computing and the Albert Dorman Honors College. He is widely recognized as a key figure in the development of the University Heights section of Newark.
Dr. Fenster's legacy extends beyond physical expansion. His vision and commitment to academic excellence helped shape NJIT into the institution it is today.
"It is with sadness that I share the news of President Fenster's passing," said NJIT President Teik C. Lim. "His 24 years of dedicated service left an indelible mark on NJIT, and his contributions to our university and the city of Newark will be remembered for generations to come."
Born in New York City, Dr. Fenster earned a Bachelor of Science degree from City College of New York, a master's degree from Columbia University, and a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from the University of Michigan. He began his career as a research engineer at Sperry Gyroscope Company/Rand Corporation before transitioning to academia. He served as a faculty member and administrator, including six years as provost, at Fairleigh Dickinson University's Rutherford campus, before joining NJIT.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Roberta, and his family. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers or cards, donations be made to the Saul and Roberta Fenster Endowed Scholarship for Exceptional Students at NJIT.
A Q&A story reflecting on Dr. Fenster's remarkable legacy and impact on the NJIT community, originally published upon his retirement, can be read here.