About
Dr. Lamont O. Repollet is a nationally recognized leader in education, policy, and institutional transformation, with over 30 years of experience spanning public and private pre-K to post-secondary education. Renowned for his expertise in reimagining education, Dr. Repollet has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives that enhance student success, improve institutional culture, and elevate academic outcomes. His leadership is defined by a commitment to innovation and access, positioning him as a leading voice in shaping the future of education.
As the President of Kean University, a distinguished R2 University and New Jersey’s Urban Research University, Dr. Repollet leads a diverse, majority-minority institution with over 18,500 students, a global presence in Wenzhou, China, and an annual operating budget of $250 million. He is the first Black President in the university’s history, joining an elite group of only 14% of Black college and university presidents nationwide. Continue reading...
Under his leadership, Kean University has undergone a transformative evolution, elevating its national profile and expanding its impact through cutting-edge research, strategic partnerships, and bold initiatives. Kean’s research activity has surged during his tenure, earning the institution a Carnegie R2 designation in February of 2025 that signifies high research and doctorate production. Dr. Repollet has championed innovative programs that strengthen workforce pipelines, create dual-degree pathways with top-tier institutions like Howard University, and expand global exchange opportunities, earning praise from world leaders. The institution has earned national recognition from U.S. News & World Report for advancing the social mobility of its students.
Prior to his presidency, Dr. Repollet made history as New Jersey’s first Black Commissioner of Education, where he led the #1-ranked public school system in the nation (Education Week, 2019). Overseeing 2,493 schools and a $12.3 billion education budget, he directed state and federal education policy and played a pivotal role in navigating the COVID-19 crisis. His decisive leadership orchestrated one of the most significant operational overhauls in New Jersey’s educational history, guiding the state through the transition to virtual learning and shaping the framework for school reopening.
Before his tenure as Commissioner, Dr. Repollet was a transformational public-school superintendent, principal, teacher, and coach, implementing initiatives that increased graduation rates from 49% to 78% and reduced dropout rates from 20% to just 3%. His expertise in driving student achievement has had a lasting impact on communities and educational institutions across the nation.
A respected thought leader and sought-after public speaker, Dr. Repollet serves on multiple state and national boards, including New Jersey Edge and New Jersey Campus Compact. He is a proud member of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and has received numerous accolades for his dedication to educational equity, public service, and leadership.
Dr. Repollet’s vision continues to shape the future of higher education, positioning Kean University as a national model for student success, institutional innovation, and global engagement.
Under his leadership, Kean University has undergone a transformative evolution, elevating its national profile and expanding its impact through cutting-edge research, strategic partnerships, and bold initiatives. Kean’s research activity has surged during his tenure, earning the institution a Carnegie R2 designation in February of 2025 that signifies high research and doctorate production. Dr. Repollet has championed innovative programs that strengthen workforce pipelines, create dual-degree pathways with top-tier institutions like Howard University, and expand global exchange opportunities, earning praise from world leaders. The institution has earned national recognition from U.S. News & World Report for advancing the social mobility of its students.
Prior to his presidency, Dr. Repollet made history as New Jersey’s first Black Commissioner of Education, where he led the #1-ranked public school system in the nation (Education Week, 2019). Overseeing 2,493 schools and a $12.3 billion education budget, he directed state and federal education policy and played a pivotal role in navigating the COVID-19 crisis. His decisive leadership orchestrated one of the most significant operational overhauls in New Jersey’s educational history, guiding the state through the transition to virtual learning and shaping the framework for school reopening.
Before his tenure as Commissioner, Dr. Repollet was a transformational public-school superintendent, principal, teacher, and coach, implementing initiatives that increased graduation rates from 49% to 78% and reduced dropout rates from 20% to just 3%. His expertise in driving student achievement has had a lasting impact on communities and educational institutions across the nation.
A respected thought leader and sought-after public speaker, Dr. Repollet serves on multiple state and national boards, including New Jersey Edge and New Jersey Campus Compact. He is a proud member of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and has received numerous accolades for his dedication to educational equity, public service, and leadership.
Dr. Repollet’s vision continues to shape the future of higher education, positioning Kean University as a national model for student success, institutional innovation, and global engagement.
