HACKENSACK, N.J. – Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey's largest and most comprehensive health network, has been named the Official Medical Provider for FDU Knights Athletics. The multi-year partnership unites two of the state's leading institutions, providing FDU's 400-plus student-athletes with access to the same world-class care trusted by professional sports teams.
 
As the exclusive healthcare system for the Knights, Hackensack Meridian Health will provide a comprehensive suite of medical services designed to optimize performance, health, and safety for all student-athletes.
 
"We are proud and excited to join forces with this outstanding organization," said FDU President Michael Avaltroni. "Hackensack Meridian Health is a nationally recognized and extremely innovative healthcare provider that will help improve our services and strengthen the resources available to our student-athletes."
 
Avaltroni added that the agreement is another important partnership that advances the University's vision to provide transformational opportunities and services in health and wellness.
 
"We are honored to partner with a distinguished institution like Fairleigh Dickinson University," said Bob Garrett, FACHE, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health. "This collaboration is a natural extension of our commitment to community health and wellness. Our goal is to provide these dedicated student-athletes with access to the highest quality sports medicine and orthopedic care, helping them perform at their peak and ensuring their long-term well-being. We look forward to a successful partnership that supports the Knights both on and off the field."
 
A key component of the partnership is the direct involvement of the Paramus-based Orthopedic Specialists of New Jersey, part of Hackensack Meridian Health, led by team physicians Dr. Chris Cherian and Dr. Matthew Counihan, who will provide specialized orthopedic care.
 
"We're proud to partner with Hackensack Meridian Health. To join the likes of the New York Giants and New York Red Bulls in partnering with this great organization will surely elevate the student-athlete experience and medical care," stated Vice President, Director of Athletics Bradford Hurlbut.
 
The agreement also includes a significant branding presence for Hackensack Meridian Health across FDU's athletic facilities, including prominent signage at the Bogota Savings Bank Center and presenting sponsorship of all FDU Knights game broadcasts.
 
About Hackensack Meridian Health
Hackensack Meridian Health is a leading not-for-profit health care organization and New Jersey's largest, most comprehensive, and integrated health network. Our network includes 18 hospitals, more than 500 patient care locations, and a complete range of services from innovative research and life-enhancing care to lifesaving air medical transportation. Our 38,000 team members and 7,000 physicians are committed to the health and well-being of the communities we serve, making Hackensack Meridian Health a distinguished leader in healthcare philanthropy.
Hackensack University Medical Center is the first-ever New Jersey hospital to be ranked a Top 20 hospital in the nation. It is also ranked #1 in New Jersey and the New York metro area by U.S. News & World Report, 2025-26. Hackensack Meridian Health is proud to be home to New Jersey's #1 children's hospital and the state's only nationally-ranked cancer center, the John Theurer Cancer Center. To learn more, visit www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org.

About FDU Athletics
The Knights are home to 21 NCAA Division I teams. A member of the Northeast Conference, FDU has had tremendous success in the classroom, in athletic competition and giving back to the Bergen County community. Since 2019, the Burgundy and Blue have captured 25 Northeast Conference championships. In 2020, 2024, and 2025, FDU student-athletes were recognized for their efforts in the community by winning the NEC Building Communities Award with over 3,000 community service hours. Other recent milestones include men's basketball capturing two wins in the 2023 NCAA Tournament, culminating with a historic upset over top-ranked Purdue. Women's basketball captured their first NEC Championship in 2025 by going undefeated in conference play on their way to the NCAA Tournament. In addition to recent championships, FDU also holds two NCAA National Championships in the sport of women's bowling (2006, 2010).