Contact Admissions
Meet the Team
Name: Carlos Nazario, Senior 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.
Freshman Admissions
Name: Sandra Mazara-Wheeler, Director of Freshman 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.
Specialties: EPIC Program
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 of Undergraduate Admissions
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: 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 and Richmond Counties, 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: 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: 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: Erin FitzGerald
Hometown: Boston, Massachusettes
Degree: B.A. Sociology and Psychology, with a minor in Theatre
Alma Mater: Lafayette College
Hobbies/Interests: Watching the New England Patriots, listening to podcasts, baking, spending time outside
Recruitment Territory: Morris, Somerset, Upper Passaic Counties
Specialties: Fine and Performing Arts, International Freshmen
Contact Phone/Email: (908) 737-7126, efitzger@kean.edu
I love Kean because the Kean community is so inclusive, and there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re passionate about Theatre, sports, painting, the environment, or giving back to the community, it’s so easy to get involved and find your niche. The students support and push each other, all coming together to work toward the same goal: Climb Higher!
Name: Marijana Ljutic, Undergraduate Regional Admissions Counselor
Hometown: Yonkers, New York
Degree: B.A.: Initial Teacher NYS Certification Program Social Studies (Grades 7-12), MSEd: Graduate School of Education
Alma Mater: Fordham University (B.A. and MSEd)
Recruitment Territory: New York (with the exception of Richmond County), Connecticut, and New England states
Specialities: NRCCUA-declared students
Contact me: (908) 377-9872, mljutic@kean.edu
Kean University is best known for graduating the most teachers in the state of New Jersey annually! Like Kean University, I am a huge supporter of educators. I started my career in education as a high school history teacher in New York City's Department of Education for 5 years. I taught Global I & II Regents History classes to freshman & sophomore students in the South Bronx, right across the street from my alma mater Fordham University at the Rose Hill Campus. I am now proud to recruit high school students, who live in New York, to attend Kean!
Transfer Admissions
Name: John Van Brunt, Director of Transfer Recruitment
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: Pamela de Leon
Hometown: Jersey City, NJ
Degrees: B.A. in Social Sciences, M.A. in Education (School Counseling)
Alma Mater: St. Peter's University
Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, sports, and board games
Contact Phone/Email: pdeleon@kean.edu
My experience as a transfer student has helped me to identify with the needs of transfer students and to help them find their second "home" on campus. I love being able to meet their needs and expectations with all the great things Kean University has to offer, including diversity and a world-class education.
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) 737-7100, transfer@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: Alexandra Rodriguez
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.
Contact Phone/Email: (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: 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.
Graduate, Online and Adult Education Admissions
Name: Michael Villanella, Associate Director
Hometown: Roxbury, New Jersey
Degree: B.A. in Psychology, M.Ed in Adult Education
Alma Mater: Monmouth University, University of Phoenix
Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with family and friends. Watching sports, walking through nature, swimming, fishing,
Specialties: Helping students, organizations and companies. Whether with Online students, Graduate students or partnerships.
Contact me: (908) 737-7137, mvillane@kean.edu
Serving applicants with last names beginning S-Z
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!
Serving applicants with last names beginning A-F
Name: Amy Clark
Contact me: (908) 737-7136, hajdusea@kean.edu
Hometown: Sayreville, New Jersey
Degree: B.A. in Communication Disorders & Deafness
Alma Mater: Kean University
Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with my family and Disney.
As an alumna, I have experienced, first-hand, the connected and comprehensive learning environment that exists at Kean University. Whether within the classroom or out on campus, Kean’s tight-knit atmosphere is apparent. You can witness student camaraderie when you walk through the halls the Miron Student Center, Nancy Thompson Library, or even along Cougar Walk. You will always see students gathering to study or socialize wherever you are on campus. Kean students are also able to learn from highly regarded professors who are experts in their field. The faculty is always willing to help and available for their students. The faculty expertise and accessibility are what sets Kean apart from other Universities. While attending Kean University to obtain my Bachelor’s degree, I learned not only the material in the classroom, but life lessons that have remained with me long after graduation. Kean University students are fortunate to have the opportunity to study on a picturesque, intimate campus while receiving a World-Class Education.
Serving applicants with last names beginning G-L
Name: Erica Robinson
Contact me: (908) 737-7118, robinser@kean.edu
Hometown: Woodbridge, New Jersey
Degree: B.S. in Business Management, M.P.A in Public Administration
Alma Mater: Kean University (B.S.), Purdue University (M.P.A)
Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, cooking, and spending time with family & friends
As an alumna, I am delighted to share my own experiences and involvement with prospective students. Our online students have the opportunity to experience our small class sizes, flexible schedules and on-campus amenities. Overall, Kean University gives students unlimited skills whether they are online or on-campus.
Serving applicants with last names beginning M-R
Name: Pedro Lopes
Contact me: (908) 737-7119, plopes@kean.edu
Hometown: North Brunswick, New Jersey
Degree: B.S. in sociology, minor in communications
Alma Mater: Rutgers University – New Brunswick
Hobbies/Interests: Coaching soccer
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.
Kean Ocean Admissions
Name: Christina Vazquez, Acting Associate Director, Kean Ocean Admissions
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.
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: Richard Harrell
Hometown: Toms River, NJ
Degree: BA, Elementary Education/ English
Alma Mater: Kean University
Hobbies/Interests: Drawing, Writing, Cooking/Baking, Playing Basketball
Contact Phone/Email: (732) 535-1712, harrellr@kean.edu
Kean University is not only a place of higher education; but is a place where students can grow personally, socially and culturally. As a proud alumnus, Kean not only yielded me my Bachelor's degree but exposed me to cultures, languages and people that I would have never met. Diversity is the cornerstone of the University. From our faculty and staff, to the academic majors and extra curricular opportunities; the university prepares its students for life beyond their degree.
A Note from the Vice President for Enrollment Services
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 a 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
Vice President for Enrollment Services
Contact an Admissions Representative
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