News Archive

Gigi Schweikert, who earned her B.S. in early childhood education and teaching in 1985, now serves as CEO of Lightbridge Academy. She credits her time at Kean with influencing her leadership approach and lifelong commitment to education.

Graduates in business, education, counseling, accounting and more are stepping boldly into their next chapter.

Kean University celebrated the Class of 2026 at its annual commencement ceremony at Prudential Center. Thousands of undergraduate and graduate students received their degrees in front of family members, faculty, alumni and supporters.

Dineo Phatela came to Kean University from her home country of Namibia in pursuit of her dream of a career in dentistry. She graduated from Kean summa cum laude with a degree in biology/cellular and molecular biology and is enrolled at the University of North Carolina’s Adams School of Dentistry, which is consistently ranked among the top dental schools globally and in the U.S.

Tyler Scott was named Kean University's 2026 valedictorian and delivered the Valedictory Address at Wednesday's commencement ceremony. Scott, a four-year member of the men's lacrosse team, graduated summa cum laude from the College of Education with a Bachelor of Science in physical education and health.

Kean University will award an honorary Doctor of Business Administration to Francis J. Walsh III, chairman and chief executive officer of NRS Inc., on Wednesday, May 20, during the University’s 2026 commencement ceremony at the Prudential Center in Newark.

Strong credit ratings from Moody’s Ratings and S&P Global Ratings affirm Kean University’s financial stability, enrollment growth and strategic leadership as the University prepares to finalize its merger with New Jersey City University.

Kean graduate Michelle Manochio ’22, ’26 M.S. turned her hands-on research experience in exercise science into a career as an exercise physiologist at Hackensack Meridian Health’s JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute. While at Kean, she contributed to research on pediatric obesity and exercise interventions, presenting findings at regional and national American College of Sports Medicine conferences.

Three Kean University students found community, leadership development and career direction through their involvement in ROTC after arriving through different military pathways. They note their experiences, including a recent Vietnam study trip, strengthened their leadership skills and deepened their understanding of military service as they prepare to become Army officers after graduation.