Contact Admissions

Name: Carlos Nazario, Director of Admissions

Hometown: North Brunswick, New Jersey

Degrees: B.A. in sociology, M.A.Ed. in supervision and administration

Alma Mater: St. Peter’s University

Hobbies/Interests: My interests are coaching Little League baseball and football, playing golf on the weekends and developing in my spiritual life. A longtime fanatic of the Baltimore Orioles and Tennessee Titans (Oilers). 

Contact me: (908) 737-7111, canazari@kean.edu

The professional atmosphere here at Kean University is welcoming and exciting to everyone who visits. Students get a glimpse of the real world at a university with global reach, and this sets Kean University apart from the rest.

Name: Sandra Mazara-Wheeler, Associate Director of Undergraduate Recruitment

Hometown: South Orange, New Jersey

Degree: B.A. in sociology, minor in business

Alma Mater: Rutgers University - Newark

Hobbies/Interests: Dancing, reading and spending time with my family.

Contact me: (908) 737-7113, smazaraw@kean.edu

I've always had a passion for access to education; to me, it's the great equalizer. Throughout my career I've been fortunate to work at institutions that are committed to diversity and serving their community, and Kean University is no exception. Kean enrolls a significant number of first-generation college students, thereby providing a transformational educational experience for students and their families. 

Name: Gregory Benedict Jr., Acting Managing Assistant Director

Hometown: Howell, New Jersey

Degree: B.A. in history, MPA in public administration

Alma Mater: Kean University

Hobbies/Interests: Cooking and watching the New York Giants and Notre Dame football.

Recruitment Territory: Monmouth, Middlesex, and Camden counties

Specialties: Athletics

Contact me: (908) 737-7104, benedicg@kean.edu

Kean University has become my second home. I have grown so much through my degree programs and experiences throughout the campus as a student, as well as a professional. I have the privilege to work on career goals of my own at the school I call home -- and without the world-class education Kean provides, my story might be completely different! I love Kean University because it allows students the opportunity to grow into the professional individuals of their dreams! The connections made along the way just make the experience that much stronger and can provide students with endless possibilities!

Name: Alexandra Fernandez, Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Teaneck, New Jersey

Degree: B.A. in comparative cultures and literary studies with Spanish minor

Alma Mater: Loyola University Maryland

Hobbies/Interests: Cooking, traveling to new places and learning about different cultures, community service and social justice, watching Giants and Ravens football, listening to interesting podcasts, and following politics.

Recruitment Territory: Upper Passaic, Morris, and Somerset Counties

Specialties:  International Freshmen

Contact me: (908) 737-7101, aleferna@kean.edu

I love Kean because it makes high-quality education accessible to many different populations. The faculty and staff are passionate about what they do and work fiercely for the success of their students. Being at one of the most diverse schools in the nation, I appreciate the eclectic student body that heightens the college experience for Kean students. Education happens both inside and outside of the classroom here, even offering students a global perspective through the Wenzhou-Kean campus in China! The possibilities are boundless here!

Name: Sasha Rashid, Managing Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions

Hometown: Dumont, New Jersey

Degree: B.A. in communications, J.D. law

Alma Mater: Ramapo College (B.A.), Touro College (J.D.).

Hobbies/Interests: Shopping, SoulCycle, enjoying live music, the beach.

Recruitment Territory:Bergen County and Richmond County , NY (Staten Island) 

Contact me: (908) 737-7100, srashid@kean.edu

As soon you step foot on campus, you will understand what I love most about Kean University — the beautiful, intimate campus feeling while still having all the advantages and conveniences of a New Jersey state institution. The professors and administrators ensure that students have a rewarding experience at Kean, as well as leaving them prepared for life after college. An affordable world-class education is within your reach at Kean!

Name: Christina Vazquez, Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Union, New Jersey

Degree: B.S. in theatre, M.A. in sociology/social justice

Alma Mater: Kean University

Hobbies/Interests: Yoga, Pilates/Barre, Crossfit, reading and volunteering with animal rescue groups.

Recruitment Territory: Burlington, Cape May, Atlantic, and Ocean Counties

Contact me: (908) 737-7110, vazquezc@kean.edu

The faculty at Kean are inspirational. They are all practicing professionals in their career fields. Kean is a large public institution yet maintains the intimate and personal experience of a small private school. Kean students receive a world-class education, with access to an abundance of internship opportunities and a preparedness for the real world.

Name: Daniel Flores, Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Hillside, New Jersey

Degree: A.A. in computer information systems, B.S. in management information systems, MBA in management

Alma Mater: Union County College (A.A.), Bloomfield College (B.S.), Felician University (MBA)

Hobbies/Interests: Soccer, Basketball, Gaming.

Recruitment Territory: Lower Passaic and Union Counties

Specialties:  Spanish Speaking Program

Contact me: (908) 737-7121, floresda@kean.edu

Growing up in Elizabeth, and now residing in Hillside, I've always been drawn to Kean University. Not only because of its proximity to my house, but for the excellent reputation it has developed in my community throughout the years. It has become a special place, where young minds are set free in pursuit of their goals and aspirations. I am happy to contribute to our unique atmosphere, and hope to help students leave an everlasting legacy at our University.

Name: Ryan Alston, Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Neptune, New Jersey

Degree: B.S. in mass communication/media studies, M.S. in industrial and organizational psychology

Alma Mater: Wilkes University (B.S.), Grand Canyon University (M.S.)

Hobbies/Interests: Youth sports coaching, exercising and Yankees baseball.

Recruitment Territory: Mercer, Essex, and Hudson Counties

Specialties:  EOF, Passport

Contact me: (908) 737-7107, ryalston@kean.edu

I love the close-knit, family feel of Kean University. We're able to create personal connections with our students and their families that are unique to higher education, and truly make Kean feel like home away from home. Further, the proximity of our main campus in Union to New York City creates boundless opportunities for internships and careers, and our connection to the Jersey shore at Kean Ocean further expands our reach.  

Name: John Van Brunt, Associate Director

Hometown: Roxbury, New Jersey

Degree: B.S. in business management, MBA in management

Alma Mater: Monmouth University

Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with family and friends. Playing and watching sports. 

Specialties: All Community College Partnerships and Articulation Agreements

Contact me: (908) 737-7134, vanbrunt@kean.edu

Name: Anisah Abdul-Baasit

Hometown: Irvington, NJ

Degrees: B.F.A Visual Communications-Graphic Design

Alma Mater: Kean University

Hobbies/Interests: Travel and Food

Contact Phone/Email: 908-737-7116, baasita@kean.edu

I have grown so much through my degree programs and experiences throughout the campus as a student, as well as a professional. I have the privilege to work on career goals of my own at the school I call home -- and without my world-class Kean education , my story might be completely different! I love Kean University because it allows students the opportunity to grow into the professional individuals of their dreams. The connections made along the way just make the experience that much stronger and can provide students with endless possibilities!

Name: Emiley Candido

Hometown: Hillside, NJ

Degrees: A.A.S. in Fashion Merchandising and Marketing, B.A. Elementary Education K-5 (Academic Major: Mathematics)

Alma Mater: Berkeley College (A.A.S.), Kean University (B.A.)

Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, Beach lover, Spending time with family and friends.

Contact Phone/Email: 908-737-7083, candidoe@kean.edu

Kean University's commitment to student success and world-class education makes our institution a multi-ethnic hub of global learning and academic practice. I am proud to be a part of such a thriving, diverse campus community and aid our students, staff, and faculty in their highest pursuits.

Name: Jesenia Holguin

Hometown: New Egypt, NJ

Degrees: B.S. Marketing

Alma Mater: Cedar Crest College

Hobbies/Interests: Reading, cooking, outdoor activities

Contact Phone/Email: 908-737-7172, jholguin@kean.edu

I love the campus and the diversity of our students!  Our campus is beautiful, serene and completely unexpected in an urban setting - a hidden gem.  The students are wonderful and come from all backgrounds that it really adds to the fabric of our University - it's a great place to be!

Name: James Miller

Hometown: Newark, NJ

Degrees: B.A. Communication

Alma Mater: Bloomfield College

Hobbies/Interests: Traveling and watching sports

Contact Phone/Email: 908-737-7127, Jmillerj@Kean.edu

What I love about Kean is its diversity and  mission  to provide an affordable, accessible and world-class education.

Name: Kayla Santos

Hometown: Colonia, NJ

Degrees: B.A. in Psychology, M.B.A, Leadership Concentration

Alma Mater: Kean University (B.A.), Centenary University (M.B.A)

Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with family and friends, exercising/running, traveling, going to the beach, cooking, baking, and watching television series.

Contact Phone/Email: 908-737-7126, ksantos@kean.edu

As a Kean Alumni, I could say that I am very passionate about the university. I have always wanted to work for Kean and I am extremely thankful for the opportunity. I had a great experience as an undergraduate student, the campus is beautiful and I love the energy around here! There are many possibilities at Kean for students to grow as a professional and as an individual. Kean is affordable, student-centered, and full of resources. I would not be where I am today without Kean.

Name: Christina Vazquez, Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Union, New Jersey

Degree: B.S. in theatre, M.A. in sociology/social justice

Alma Mater: Kean University

Hobbies/Interests: Yoga, Pilates/Barre, Crossfit, reading and volunteering with animal rescue groups.

Transfer Applicants Last Names: R - Z

Contact me: (732) 255-0400, ext 2206, vazquezc@kean.edu

With a 160-year tradition of excellence in higher education, Kean University is dedicated to providing world-class programs in an online environment where you can complete your degree on your own time. Call us at (908) 737-4275 or send an email to keanonline@kean.edu to speak with one of the following Kean online admissions counselors today: 

• Wendy Dobrynio

• Fran Jachewicz

• Michael Villanella

Name: Brittany Gerstenhaber, Graduate Admissions Counselor

Hometown: West Windsor, New Jersey

Degree: B.A. in East Asian studies, political science

Alma Mater: Bucknell University

Hobbies/Interests: Reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Graduate Applicants Last Names: A-J

Contact me: (908) 737-7132, brittang@kean.edu

I love the community feel Kean University has. You feel it the minute you step on campus — the campus is friendly, welcoming and beautiful; the programs are world-class! Kean provides students with the tools they need to become successful professionals in their chosen field. Our state-of-the-art on-campus facilities and proximity and access to NYC internships mean students get extensive hands-on experience before graduation. In conjunction with the affordability offered to students, Kean is the right choice to further your education!

Name: Pedro Lopes, Graduate Admissions Counselor

Hometown: North Brunswick, New Jersey

Degree: B.S. in sociology, minor in communications

Alma Mater: Rutgers University – New Brunswick

Hobbies/Interests: Coaching soccer.

Graduate Applicants Last Names: M-Z

Contact me: (908) 737-7119, plopes@kean.edu

The welcoming campus community, friendly student body, and the continuous and positive facility enhancements. Key advantages Kean offers to its students/graduates: Kean University offers our students an affordable education. Our small class size will create an atmosphere where our students and professors will interact with each other in a personal way — you’ll know your professors. Our location with easy and quick access to New York City will ensure our students have the world (every industry) at their fingertips. Kean’s commitment to a world-class education by continuously building state-of-the-art facilities will allow our students access to the newest technology and best educational spaces. Lastly, Kean University will give you a diverse educational community, beautiful and inviting campus, and an arena where you will grow into a global citizen.

Name: Helen Corpuz Ramirez, Associate Director, Graduate Admissions

Hometown: Staten Island, New York

Degree: B.A. in psychology, M.S. in education

Alma Mater: Fordham University and CUNY, College of Staten Island

Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with my family and friends, preferably on a beach listening to DMB.

Graduate Applicants Last Names: K-L

Contact me: (908) 737-7137, hramirez@kean.edu

When I first stepped onto Kean University’s campus, I was impressed with the beautiful architecture and the pristine landscape. After interacting and meeting Kean’s students, administrators and faculty, I quickly realized the real beauty of Kean lies in the individuals. The academic rigor of our graduate programs coupled with the state-of-the-art facilities will prepare you to meet your professional ambitions and career aspirations. Our faculty and administrators work hard to build relationships with industry professionals to offer internship and practicum opportunities. Your graduate education at Kean expands beyond classroom walls. At Kean, you will have the opportunity to impact your world and apply what you learn even before graduation. I hope you will visit and experience Kean University firsthand.  

Thank you for your interest in Kean. Hopefully you’ve had some time to explore our website and have started to discover some of the many advantages Kean University has to offer.

We invite you to explore our campus and learn about the world-class academic programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and wide range of resources available to support the success of our students. Kean offers quality academic programs, the most affordable tuition in the state of New Jersey and a vibrant campus life. See where a world-class education takes you.

We encourage you to connect with your admissions counselor from the menu above. Please also check our Recruitment Calendar to see when your admissions counselor will be visiting your area, or click here to schedule your next campus visit. 

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Sincerely,
Marsha McCarthy
Acting Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management