Kean University Advances Dialogue and Unity at New Jersey Coalition of Africana Studies Summit

Kean University hosted the second annual New Jersey Coalition of Africana Studies Summit, bringing together educators, students and community leaders for a day of conversation, collaboration and inspiration. 

The daylong summit, led by David Jefferson Jr., Ed.D., acting director of the Center for Africana Studies, which is housed within Kean’s College of Education, served as a platform to amplify diverse voices, promote understanding and strengthen partnerships across the state. The event also highlighted the University’s role as a catalyst for scholarship and collaboration. 

“My goal is for the Center for Africana Studies to be a space at Kean where dialogue, resources and understanding can thrive,” Jefferson said. “This is for everyone.” 

Renowned activist and award-winning journalist Marc Lamont Hill, Ph.D., delivered a keynote address centered on the power of unity and collective action. 

“This is such an important moment and conversation,” Hill said. “The Center for Africana Studies has been given a lot of applause for the work that you are doing, for the legacy that you are building, for the work that you all are contributing to.” 

Hill, recognized as one of Ebony magazine’s 100 most influential Black leaders and a recipient of multiple honors from the National Association of Black Journalists, drew inspiration from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to challenge attendees to lead with courage and purpose. 

“Dr. King said that only when it is darkest can you see the stars...these young people on this campus are the stars,” Hill added. 

Kean faculty underscored the importance of the event in uplifting students. Kalasia Ojeh, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Political, Social and Cultural Sciences, shared how the Summit’s message resonated with the campus community. 

“I think this showcases how much Kean University understands what our students need,” Ojeh said. “Hearing messages that affirm them, that value them, that put them first is really important in this day and time. I’m excited to see that the leadership at Kean is fully in support of our students.” 

The event included breakout sessions, panel discussions and a luncheon designed to promote inclusivity, dialogue and cultural awareness. 

Launched in February 2024, the Center for Africana Studies continues to advance scholarship and foster community engagement across disciplines. 

Through initiatives like the Coalition of Africana Studies Summit, Kean upholds its mission as New Jersey’s first urban research university, creating opportunities for students and faculty to explore issues of equity, justice and identity that shape society today. 

“Our objective is to ensure that the Center is a beacon of light and a conduit for conversation, relationships, partnerships and engagement,” Jefferson added.