100 Years of Business Leadership

For nearly 100 years, the Peter J. Tobin College of Business has shaped generations of leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs through academic rigor, professional excellence, and a distinguished global alumni network. In 2027, St. John’s University proudly celebrates the 100th anniversary of its College of Business, honoring the history, milestones, and community that have defined Tobin for a century. 

Founded in 1927 at the University’s Lewis Avenue campus in Brooklyn, the original School of Accounting, Commerce, and Finance marked the beginning of business education at St. John’s. As the first business school at the institution, it offered coursework in business administration, accountancy, business law, and economics, laying the foundation for what would become one of the nation’s most respected business schools. 

Its early success helped drive growing enrollment across the University, leading to the opening of a second Brooklyn location in a newly erected building at 96 Schermerhorn Street in 1929. Housed in a million-dollar skyscraper that opened during the year of the Stock Market crash, the building became an enduring part of the College’s legacy.  

As St. John’s expanded, so too did its business school. Renamed the School of Commerce in 1933 and later the College of Business Administration in 1961, the College evolved alongside the University’s move to Queens. By 1972, the College had established its long-standing home on the Queens campus, where generations of students would prepare for careers in business, finance, and leadership.  

“Our centennial is ultimately a celebration of our alumni,” said Maciek Nowak, Dean of The Peter J. Tobin College of Business. “For a century, Tobin graduates have shaped industries, strengthened communities, and carried the values of St. John’s into boardrooms, startups, financial institutions, and organizations around the world. Their success is the living legacy of this College.” 

A defining moment in the College’s modern history came in 2000, when it was renamed the Peter J. Tobin College of Business. The following year, the acquisition of the College of Insurance further strengthened Tobin’s academic profile and expanded its reach into Manhattan, reinforcing its connection to the business capital of the world. 

Today, through programs spanning finance, marketing, business analytics, risk management, and graduate business education, Tobin continues to prepare students for leadership in an increasingly global and dynamic economy. 

As the College approaches its centennial in 2027, its story is not only one of history, but of momentum. The achievements of its students, faculty, and alumni stand as a testament to the generations who built its legacy and to those who will shape its next century. 

With this milestone on the horizon, the centennial celebration will continue throughout 2027 with seminars, alumni networking opportunities, signature events, and moments that honor the College’s enduring legacy. We invite the entire Tobin community—our alumni, students, faculty, and friends—to join us in celebrating this extraordinary anniversary. Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram @stjohnstobin for upcoming event announcements and ways to take part in the celebration.