Union County Review

Kean University has appointed La Toro Yates, Ph.D., as the new Vice President for Enrollment Services. A New Jersey native, Yates began his career in higher education as an admissions counselor at St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, where he also completed his undergraduate studies. Although initially planning to enter the business sector after earning an MBA, Yates discovered a passion for higher education admissions and helping students navigate the college selection process.

Yates shared insights about his journey and vision during an interview with Kean News. He explained that his interest in enrollment services stemmed from personal experiences during his youth when he had to independently manage many aspects of college selection despite having family support. "It's been a joy to work with first-generation students like myself and help them and their families understand how to make the best college choice," Yates said.

Before joining Kean University, Yates served at the City University of New York's Hostos Community College in the Bronx. He noted that Kean's consistent enrollment growth, now reaching 18,000 students amid national declines in college enrollment figures, was a key factor that attracted him to this position. "I realized there were some amazing things happening at Kean, and I wanted to become a part of it," he stated.

Addressing future challenges, Yates acknowledged concerns about a potential decline in high school graduates but expressed confidence in exploring other avenues such as transfer students, adult learners, and international students to maintain growth. "It’s about creating opportunities for students, removing all barriers," he remarked.

Yates highlighted Kean University's academic programs as one of its major strengths. These include design and architecture specialties and expanding health professions offerings like pre-licensure nursing programs. The university is also progressing towards becoming an R2 research institution while maintaining strong teacher education programs and AACSB-accredited business courses.

He praised the university's student services for providing critical resources that aid student persistence through graduation via initiatives such as the Wellness Center and various support programs like Supera and EOF. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of diversity at Kean University: "When you see students walking together... I believe that is a true strength of the University."