Union County Review

Blue skies and a sense of pride were evident on Kean University's main campus in Union as over 2,500 people gathered to celebrate Homecoming on October 5. The event attracted alumni, students, families, and friends with various activities including food trucks, carnival games, and inflatable attractions. Tailgates organized by student groups preceded the Kean Cougar football team's victory against William Paterson University.

“It’s always a special day when we welcome our alumni back to campus to celebrate Kean’s spirit with our students and the entire University community,” said President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. He emphasized that "Homecoming unites us as one Kean family."

Alumni like Sharrelle Thomas of Newark displayed their school spirit through their attire. “We’re here to show our Kean spirit and to support the school!” she stated. Krista Awad of Colonia appreciated the free tickets for alumni as she enjoyed the day with her family.

Many former students noted the university's transformation since their time there. Ruth Ringler from Livingston remarked on how much had changed since her first homecoming 40 years ago.

Current students also participated enthusiastically. J’Meekwa Shaw, a junior cheerleader from Maplewood, expressed her appreciation for the welcoming atmosphere at Kean. Tony Maddox from Summit shared his excitement about joining the celebration for the first time.

Bianca Nuñez from Millburn found it encouraging that older alumni remained involved in campus events even after graduation. Alumni Ricardo Ciprian and Synamin Golson contributed by judging a tailgate competition during Homecoming.

Carol Ann Koert highlighted the importance of alumni involvement: “Events like these remind us of how important alumni are to the campus community.” For some attendees like Melissa Cheung from Passaic, Homecoming was an opportunity to inspire future generations about attending Kean University.