The Class of 2028 has officially arrived at Iona University, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the institution’s newest students. This cohort is noted for its blend of talent and ambition, representing one of Iona's largest and most selective classes. Students are pursuing diverse fields such as biology, pre-law, and business administration.

During Move-In Day outside Loftus Hall, Vilte Panavas ’28 from Staten Island shared her enthusiasm for starting a degree in biology. "What drew me to Iona was its staff, faculty and the strong support from the biology department," she said. "I’m looking forward to the guidance and opportunities here."

Antonia Guglielmo ’28 from Pearl River, N.Y., expressed similar sentiments about the sense of community at Iona. She is eager to embark on her journey in the pre-law program. "I’m looking forward to becoming independent and navigating life on my own," Guglielmo stated. "Iona feels like the perfect place for me to grow and develop into my own person."

Kevin Rojas ’28 from Clifton, N.J., highlighted the supportive environment at Iona. "I want to become a property manager in the future and I’m excited to build strong connections here," Rojas mentioned. "The staff members have been super communicative and supportive already."

Iona University offers over 80 student leadership clubs and organizations, encouraging students to explore their passions beyond academics. The fall semester features an event series known as “Killian's Kickoff,” a 50-day lineup designed to help students foster meaningful connections across campus.

Founded in 1940, Iona University is a master's-granting private Catholic institution affiliated with the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers. Located just 20 miles north of Midtown Manhattan, it operates campuses in New Rochelle and Bronxville with nearly 4,000 students enrolled. The university offers undergraduate degrees in liberal arts, science, business administration, as well as advanced degrees including Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master of Business Administration, and various certificate programs.

Iona University has been recognized by prestigious rankings such as The Princeton Review’s national list of “The Best 390 Colleges” for 2025 and The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse’s “2024 Best Colleges in America,” where it ranked #66 overall and #8 among Catholic schools nationally. The LaPenta School of Business holds accreditation from AACSB International.

In July 2021, Iona announced the establishment of the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Health Sciences located on its Bronxville campus in collaboration with NewYork-Presbyterian. Reflecting its growth and academic prestige, Iona transitioned from college to university status on July 1, 2022.