Union College Opens Butler Street Center

By adminPublished On: May 13, 2026Categories: Civil Rights & Social Movements (1900–1970s)1.8 min read

Submitted by: Prizith Marin

Time Period: Civil Rights & Social Movements (1900–1970s)

First established in 1970, the Elizabeth campus of Union College’s (today UCNJ) had already moved from Broad St. to Madison Ave. On January 8, 1979, the college inaugurated its third location, the Elizabeth Urban Education Center at the Thomas and Betts Building at 10 Butler Street. As part of its mission to provide an affordable and accessible education to Union County residents, the college offered a variety of courses in Reading, Accounting, Psychology, Business, and Communications, as well as courses in Black American Literature, Black History, and the Sociology of Minorities.At the request of Elizabeth Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) officials, Union College, in conjunction with the Union County Technical Institute, established a skills center to provide training for welfare recipients at this location. The center helped CETA clients earn their high school equivalency certificates by providing instruction in reading, English composition and arithmetic. Elizabeth Mayor Thomas G. Dunn emphasized, “A highly trained work force can be a decisive factor in industry’s decision to stay or move to Elizabeth.” The campus provided training in several fields such as secretarial work, baking, clerical tasks, and in later years, expanded to include technical skills like welding, plumbing and auto mechanics. The original building at Butler Street no longer exists. This location was the last before the Elizabeth campus found a permanent home in the Lessner Building on West Jersey St.

Sources / Citations

Misseck, Robert. “Training Welfare Clients.” The Star-Ledger, November 12, 1978.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Union College open the Elizabeth Urban Education Center?

Union College opened the Elizabeth Urban Education Center on January 8, 1979.

Where was the Elizabeth Urban Education Center located?

The center was located at the Thomas and Betts Building at 10 Butler Street in Elizabeth.

What courses were offered at Union College’s Elizabeth Urban Education Center?

Courses included Reading, Accounting, Psychology, Business, Communications, Black American Literature, Black History, and the Sociology of Minorities.

What workforce training programs were connected to the Butler Street location?

The location provided training tied to CETA, including high school equivalency support, secretarial work, baking, clerical tasks, welding, plumbing, and auto mechanics.