Union County Review

Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., commenced his fifth academic year with an Opening Day address, emphasizing the institution's efforts to close equity gaps and strengthen its role as an anchor institution both in the U.S. and globally.

“We are in the midst of a significant educational transformation, a renaissance here at Kean, and that comes with profound responsibility,” Repollet stated. “As educators, we have a powerful tool of change at our fingertips, but we must make sure it works for everyone.”

Addressing attendees at Wilkins Theatre on Kean’s Union campus, Repollet highlighted various achievements such as increased enrollment and securing $16 million in external funding.

He also underscored Kean’s commitment to innovation as it transitions from a respected regional university to an innovative national research university.

“Together, we will rise to meet the challenges ahead, exceed expectations, and do our part to make sure that Kean University remains built to last,” he said.

Kean Board of Trustees Chair Steve Fastook ’H06 introduced Repollet following a warm welcome to the audience.

Repollet used videos and slides to outline the University's accomplishments and future goals:

- This fall, Kean welcomes over 18,000 students from 36 states and 88 countries across Kean USA, Kean Online, and Wenzhou-Kean University (WKU) in China. This includes record enrollment in Kean Online with more than 2,000 students.

- The freshman class that started in 2020 achieved the highest four-year graduation rate over the past decade.

- In fiscal year 2024, Kean received more than $16 million in external funding for community service, academic projects, and research.

- A new building at 1085 Morris Avenue has been acquired for advanced research and community health initiatives.

- The exchange program between Kean USA and WKU is expanding with a record number of WKU exchange students this semester.

- A record 500 student-athletes are now participating in 21 teams through Kean Athletics.

Repollet announced several new programs launching this year including the creation of the Office of Student Engagement within the president’s office; new undergraduate degree programs in nursing and forensic biology; and $100,000 funding for Travelearn study abroad programs.

The president emphasized advancing equity as part of his vision for Kean.

“This is the vision – an urban research university anchored down in our communities committed to equity in all forms,” Repollet said. “Equity isn’t just about race or gender. It’s about making sure everyone has a fair opportunity to work hard and succeed.”

The address received positive feedback from both university veterans and students.

“It was an amazing way to kick off the school year,” said sophomore James Garbowski. “You could feel the energy; it definitely shows me why I came to Kean.”

Associate Professor Pat Ippolito noted that Opening Day is "a very special day."

“The opening day address at the beginning of the academic year is always filled with promise," he said. "As President Repollet starts his fifth year, it's even more promising.”