Union County Review

Kean University embraced the rich culture and legacy of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) this month, hosting a series of events in its role as the official New Jersey Education Partner of the HBCU NY Classic football game.

The University held an energetic step show, an education fair, and a lively tailgate gathering leading up to the game at MetLife Stadium on September 14, where Howard University defeated Morehouse College.

“As a minority-serving institution, Kean University shares many of the core values of HBCUs – namely, a commitment to equity, access and the empowerment of students of color,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “Partnering with the HBCU NY Classic is a way to celebrate Black excellence and recognize the shared mission we have of creating opportunities for underrepresented students. We are committed to ensuring that our programs reflect and honor the diverse spirit and culture of our students.”

The step show, held on campus, featured performances from historically Black fraternities and sororities from Kean and other universities, alongside multicultural groups that brought the crowd to its feet with vibrant routines, pounding music, and electrifying lights.

“This event is about more than just fun – it’s about community, culture and celebrating our students,” said Sancha K. Gray, Ed.D., senior vice president for entrepreneurial education initiatives and acting dean of the College of Education. “As an anchor institution, Kean takes great pride in fostering a sense of belonging and unity, and what better way to kick off the HBCU NY Classic than by bringing that spirit to life here at Kean?”

Earlier in the week, Kean hosted Education Day at Harwood Arena, where over 1,400 high school students met with representatives from HBCUs, Kean University and other institutions to learn about opportunities for their future academic careers.

“This wasn’t just a college fair – this was about immersing students in the HBCU experience,” said David Jefferson Jr., Ed.D., acting director of the Kean Center for Africana Studies. “It’s important for students to see the connection between the values of HBCUs and the work we’re doing here at Kean. We are proud to highlight the transformative power of education and to showcase what Kean can offer.”

Kean students eagerly took part in the festivities. Kean senior Ben Antoine, a recreational therapy major and resident assistant from Roselle attended the step show with residents from his building.

“I was looking for events that could bring more social interaction,” Antoine said. “I feel like Kean has always had a mini-HBCU culture, and this is something for the public to see.”

Sisters Angelina and Samantha Diaz, both forensic psychology majors and sophomores at Kean from Hoboken and Union City respectively were among the first in line to enter the step show.

“We heard ‘step show’ and said we want to go,” Samantha said. Angelina added: “It’s cool to have this opportunity to look at other schools. Kean gives us options to experience other cultures like HBCUs. We have Latin frats and sororities. Not every school has that.”