Kean University Unveils 'Elevate 2030' Strategic Plan to Drive Innovation, Equity and National Impact

Kean University has launched Elevate 2030, a bold five-year strategic plan designed to transform the University into a national model of research, equity and innovation while preparing graduates to lead in their fields and communities. 

President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., unveiled the plan during his Opening Day address, describing it as “the synthesis of human ingenuity and the essence of innovation, creating a transformative approach to higher education.” 

“Through this strategic plan, we aspire to elevate the educational experience, ensuring our graduates are equipped with knowledge and skills to innovate and lead in an ever-evolving world,” Repollet said. “This plan reflects a vision where human potential is amplified by technology, creating a dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking academic landscape.” 

The plan is anchored in Kean’s six core values of academic excellence, equity, inclusivity, wellness, social mobility and public impact. Developed through a yearlong, inclusive process that engaged students, faculty, staff, alumni and external stakeholders, Elevate 2030 is already in motion. 

This summer, more than 150 faculty, staff and administrators participated in strategy execution sessions, aligning unit and college goals directly to the plan’s priorities.  

“The strength of Elevate 2030 lies in the fact that it was built with the fingerprints of our entire community,” said Michael Salvatore, Ph.D., executive vice president for academic and administrative operations at Kean University. “Faculty and staff from every division came together to align our goals and ensure that Kean continues to serve as a leader in higher education.” 

Building on that shared vision, the plan highlights areas where Kean is poised to lead on a national stage. Artificial intelligence is at the heart of Elevate 2030, envisioned as both a vital research tool and a catalyst for new approaches to teaching and learning. The plan emphasizes using AI to strengthen critical thinking, foster collaboration and spark innovation across disciplines. 

Elevate 2030 also expands the University’s research agenda, calling for the John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research to take a greater role in shaping policy and for faculty to engage more deeply with urgent global challenges, including climate change, social equity and health disparities. The strategy also prioritizes civic engagement and experiential learning, integrating them into coursework so graduates leave Kean prepared to succeed professionally and to lead with impact in their communities. 

Repollet pointed to the progress of the past five years as the foundation for Elevate 2030. In the wake of the pandemic, Kean reimagined pathways for learning – in-person, hybrid, online, domestic and international – and emerged as New Jersey’s first urban research university. 

“The proof is clear,” Repollet said, citing increased philanthropic support, expanded global research partnerships, new state appropriations and an upcoming planned merger with New Jersey City University. “These achievements are not isolated milestones; they are stepping stones. We continue to build on them with renewed strength and vision. After five years of strategic focus, Kean is now poised to take what we know, what we have proven and what we have built to chart the next bold course.” 

Through Elevate 2030, Kean is reinforcing its mission to create a world-class, innovative and inclusive society through equity and excellence in teaching, research and public engagement. 

“Together, we will influence not only the trajectory of Kean University, but the future of higher education in New Jersey and across the nation,” Repollet said.