Stockton University Satellite Campus Development

Co-Chair

When our community first began thinking seriously about revitalization, we recognized that true growth required more than economic development, it required the arts. Culture has the power to uplift, inspire, and connect people, so we made it a priority to integrate more arts and cultural opportunities into Hammonton.

At one point, we even considered establishing a regional arts center by repurposing an old, multi-story factory building in the heart of downtown. The building was vacant and set for demolition, but we saw potential in it as a creative hub. While that idea didn’t fully materialize, it led us toward an even stronger opportunity: partnering with an existing institution that could bring immediate credibility, resources, and programming.

That institution was the Noyes Museum of Art, located about 45 minutes away. After months of conversation, they agreed to establish a satellite gallery right here in Hammonton. This was a turning point for our town and the arrival of a professional arts institution placed Hammonton on the regional cultural map which gave our community access to exhibitions, events, and educational programs that would have been otherwise out of reach.

The ripple effect didn’t stop there. The Noyes Museum had recently formed a close relationship with Stockton University, a leading regional public university. Through this connection, Hammonton began cultivating stronger ties with Stockton, opening doors for future collaborations, academic partnerships, and cultural initiatives that continue to benefit the community today.

A key figure in this journey was Charles Kramer, who had deep involvement with both the Noyes Museum and Stockton University, as well as ties to a major beverage company headquartered in our area. His vision and leadership helped bridge these partnerships, reinforcing Hammonton’s reputation as a town that values innovation, culture, and collaboration.

What began as an idea to save an abandoned factory building has since evolved into something much bigger: a network of partnerships between arts, education, business, and community. This story illustrates what’s possible when a town embraces creativity and collaboration,  revitalization that uplifts not just the economy, but also the spirit of a place.