Leadership Update

Dear Kean and NJCU Communities,  

Welcome to the first edition of Inside the Integration, a monthly newsletter designed to provide open, timely and transparent communication throughout the ongoing integration of Kean University (Kean) and New Jersey City University (NJCU). This publication will serve as a central resource for updates, milestones and opportunities to engage with the process as we move forward to create Kean Jersey City.  

Over the summer, over 15 integration teams comprised of dedicated faculty, staff and administrators from Kean and NJCU have been working diligently. Each team is focused on key operational and academic areas to learn from one another, build bridges between our institutions and lay the groundwork for a successful merger. The process is dynamic, and its timeline is dependent on a series of essential approvals by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. While the exact pace of progress depends on these approvals, our shared goal is to complete the integration by July 1, 2026.  

To support this effort, Inside the Integration will include a visual timeline highlighting key milestones as they emerge. Each edition will also spotlight the work of the integration subcommittees, share upcoming events and feature a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section where you can both submit and view questions and answers. We aim to keep everyone at Kean and NJCU informed and engaged.  

We will continue to emphasize transparency throughout this process by ensuring that both the Kean and NJCU communities receive important information at the same time, starting with this message. In that spirit, I invite you to mark your calendar for an Integration Town Hall on the NJCU campus on Wednesday, October 8, from 2-3:30 p.m. I hope you will join me in person if you are at NJCU or via a virtual link if you are part of the Kean community. Details will be shared soon.  

This integration is more than a structural change; it is a transformational opportunity. Together, we are building a new model for higher education in New Jersey, one that is deeply committed to serving students from urban communities like Hudson County with equitable access to an outstanding education. We are setting a precedent that other institutions may look to as a model for inclusive, student-centered collaboration.  

I want to recognize and thank New Jersey City University President Andrés Acebo for his steady and collaborative leadership throughout this process. His commitment to NJCU’s students, faculty and staff is helping to guide this integration with care and purpose. I also thank all of you, faculty, staff and students. Together, we are creating something truly remarkable in Kean Jersey City.  

Sincerely,  

 
Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D.  
President, Kean University