Freshman Convocation

Kean University will host its annual Kean Union Freshman Convocation on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. The event is open to all Kean Union incoming freshmen students to welcome the Class of 2030. The student-only on-campus event will highlight the following:  

• Student Procession
• Class Pledge
• Networking
• Photo Booth
• Fun & Giveaways

We invite all family and friends to participate in the event by watching the live-stream broadcast, which will be available on this page.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2026 

1:30 p.m. Student Check-In at Miron Student Center (MSC)  

3 – 5 p.m. Ceremony & Reception at Harwood Arena 

Student Dress Code: Orientation T-Shirt and Black Bottoms 

Register for Freshman Convocation

*You must log in to your Cougar Link account using your Kean email and password. Then you will be able to register for the event if you are admitted for Kean Union Summer or Fall 2025 semester, paid your deposit, and registered for your placement test. Please email nso@kean.edu if you are unable to register. 

Who can attend the Freshman Convocation? 
The annual Kean Union Freshman Convocation is open to all incoming freshmen students as part of the Class of 2030. All students must register in Cougar Link to attend. Family and friends will be able to participate in the event by watching the live-stream broadcast of the event. 

What is the attire for freshmen students? 
All students are required to wear the t-shirt given at the July NSO orientation and black bottoms (skirts, shorts, or pants). If you didn't attend the orientation, your name will be on a list to pick up your t-shirt after checking in on the day of the event.  

What should students expect at the Freshman Convocation? 
Students should arrive at 1:30 p.m. at the Miron Student Center (MSC) outside the Clock Tower to begin check-in. Students will line up and march together as a class down Cougar Walk to be greeted by the Kean community to Harwood Arena. The ceremony will include messages from Kean officials, entertainment, and the recitation of the class pledge. Following the ceremony, a reception will be held at Hardwood Arena Parking Lot, featuring light refreshments and a photo booth to capture the moment. This will be a day to meet your fellow classmates and enjoy the time before classes start. 

What if I am having trouble registering for Freshman Convocation? 
To register to attend Kean Union Freshman Convocation, all students must be Kean Union, have scheduled their placement test to register for classes and should have attended NSO. If you still need help, please send an email to nso@kean.edu.