Kean Celebrates Academic Success at 2026 Honors Convocation

Kean University recognized the achievements of its top students during the annual Honors Convocation ceremony on May 1, celebrating academic excellence and marking the start of commencement season.

Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., addressed the crowd, emphasizing the hard work and dedication behind their accomplishments. 

“When I look out at all of you, I see more than strong academic performance,” Repollet said. “I see commitment, discipline and individuals who understand what it means to take ownership of your future. That is what this recognition represents."

The ceremony celebrated more than 500 of the 1,200 students who are graduating with honors from across Kean’s six colleges this year.

Keynote speaker Sara Mogulescu, president of the Volcker Alliance, shared insights from more than two decades of leadership in the civic sector. A nationally recognized expert in public service education and nonprofit strategy, Mogulescu reflected on her own journey and encouraged graduates to pursue work that advances the common good.

“Honors Convocation signals more than academic achievement,” Mogulescu said. “It signals what it takes to get here. Whatever your path looks like, I hope you reflect on it with pride.”

Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs David S. Birdsell, Ph.D., recognized the shared effort behind students’ success.

“To the students who are being honored here today, I extend sincere congratulations,” Birdsell said. “I also wish to congratulate the families and friends of Honors students, who deserve to be recognized for all the support and encouragement they’ve provided.”

Kean recognizes three levels of honors: summa cum laude (GPA 3.85-4.0), magna cum laude (GPA 3.65-3.84) and cum laude (GPA 3.45-3.64). 

Kean Salutatorian Marley Wicker, who will receive her Bachelor of Arts in communication studies, was among the honorees. Wicker spoke about her path from earning an associate’s degree to graduating with honors, as well as the influence of her mother. 

“My mother taught me one of the greatest lessons,” Wicker said. “There are many reasons to hide from the world, but you must wake up every day, push against the storm and choose to care.”

The impact of a Kean education was evident not only in academic achievement on display, but in the personal journeys behind each honor.

“I loved my time at Kean,” said psychology major Diana Alvarado. “I’m the first to graduate in my family, so this accomplishment means a lot to all of us. My parents are so proud.”

For many students, the recognition marked the fulfillment of a longtime goal. 

“Graduating with honors is something I always dreamed of,” said Kyra Parris, a computer science major. “To be here today feels surreal.” 

Her sister, Jeanine Best, celebrated alongside her.

“I’m so proud of everything she’s done and everything she will do in the future,” Best said.

Juan and Alicia Mendez, whose daughter Priscilla is a speech-language pathology student, described the day as deeply meaningful.

“We’re so proud of her,” they said. “As parents, today is emotional for us because it feels like everything we’ve done has been worth it.” 

The Class of 2026 will celebrate its full commencement on Wednesday, May 20 at the Prudential Center in Newark.