Kean University Hosts Statewide Summit to Address Food Insecurity Across New Jersey

Kean University this month convened leaders from across New Jersey for a Statewide Food Insecurity Summit, a full-day event that emphasized the urgency of addressing hunger across the state.

The summit, hosted by Kean’s Office of Government Affairs and Community Partnerships and its Faith-Based Institute of Public Policy, welcomed elected officials, nonprofit advocates, faith leaders, students and community members at the University’s STEM building. 

“Addressing food insecurity is not just a policy challenge but a human one,” said Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “We understand that student success is inseparable from student well-being. Addressing hunger requires both immediate support and long-term systems and care.”

Throughout the day, speakers examined the root causes of food insecurity and its impact on a wide range of populations. Panel discussions explored these issues and highlighted how higher-education institutions, government agencies and community organizations can collaborate more effectively. 

Kean’s chief government affairs officer, Kellie Drakeford LeDet, spoke about the importance of convening so many leaders from across sectors. 

“Through this summit we are intentionally bringing together those shaping policies, delivering services, and working directly within our communities to identify solutions that are both practical and sustainable,” LeDet said. 

State leaders pointed to New Jersey’s broader efforts to address food insecurity, noting a new strategic plan statewide.  

“I think every state could take something from our playbook,” said New Jersey General Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. “We need to continue to lead the way in this space.”

“Here in New Jersey with our strategic plan, we’ve already done what other states are just thinking about,” added Mark Dinglasan, executive director of the New Jersey Office of the Food Security Advocate (OFSA). “We’re not just concerned with fighting hunger, we’re looking at food insecurity as a highly complex socioeconomic issue.”

Faith leaders also played a key role in the conversation, emphasizing a moral responsibility to address hunger. 

“This challenge across the state impacts us all,” said Bishop Reginald Atkins, founder of Zion Family Worship Center in Roselle. “If one in eight people are experiencing food insecurity, then we’re all impacted.”

The issue continues to play a role on college campuses statewide, with many students balancing academic demands with work and family obligations.

“Throughout New Jersey and the nation, we are seeing a growing number of students balancing coursework, jobs, family responsibilities and the challenge of securing their meals,” said Kerrin Lyles, vice president of student affairs at Kean. “No student should have to choose between their education and their basic needs.”

Kean continues to support students through resources such as the Cougar Pantry, which provides food and essential items in an accessible setting.

“Food insecurity is a highly sensitive topic and you may not be aware when someone is experiencing it,” said Doaa Abd El Azem, a Kean graduate student. “People don’t like to talk about their needs, but Kean has created a very safe environment for students to address them.” 

The summit also highlighted the role of community-driven solutions. Among the attendees was Marcellis Counts, founder of Apian Industries, a Newark-based company that focuses on improving quality of life through beekeeping and urban farming initiatives.

"This is a great event for Kean to convene people in this food security space," Counts said. "Now we have to take these conversations held today and turn them into actionable impacts."