Skip to main content
Newark skyline

John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research

Celebrating 30 Years of Policy Making and Innovation

Watson Institute

 

The John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research is "the think and do tank for public policy." The institute is dedicated to deepening the analysis around critical public policy challenges and broadening the range of policy ideas, perspectives and options available.

Our Work

Solar panels and a city skyline

Environmental Justice

The Center for the Urban Environment is dedicated to addressing the disproportionate amount of pollution found in low-income communities and communities of color.
Kean student interacts with 2 children at Kean's Child Care Center

Youth Advocacy

The Center for the Positive Development of Urban Children amplifies the voices of teachers, practitioners, families, and advocates, through strategic policy initiatives.

Health Advancement

The Institute collectively works with health organizations and elected officials across the state to advance health policies.
Urban Mayors Association

Urban Leadership

The John S. Watson Institute for Public Policy and Research supports the New Jersey Urban Mayors’ Association through critical insights and analysis of policies, issues and opportunities facing New Jersey’s cities.
Black female entrepreneur

Workforce Development

The Center for Economic and Workforce Development, Social Entrepreneurship, and Innovation ensures that urban communities have policies and programs designed to promote resilient businesses and living-wage jobs.
Urban Mayors Association

Urban Mayors Association Newsletter

Kean University links people to policy through urban-focused policy development, partnerships,
engagement and innovation. Read the November NJM newsletter to learn more.
John S. Watson

About Us

The John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research celebrates the legacy of pioneering New Jersey Assemblyman John S. Watson. The institute comprises integrated policy centers and initiatives that support informed public policy. We serve as a vital, non-partisan resource for New Jersey decision-makers, supporting the development and implementation of real-world solutions. Learn more about our history and how we act as a catalyst for positive social change.

In the News

Kean News
Kean's Hynes Hall at Night, with an illuminated ticker running across one side.

  • Campus and Community
  • Campus Outreach
  • In The Community
 Kean Named One of 25 U.S. Colleges to Lead Economic Development Programs

Kean received a U.S. Economic Development Administration University Center grant and is creating the Center to identify and support the economic development needs of communities throughout New Jersey.
A photo of Nicky Sheats.

Kean Environmental Justice Expert Named to White House Advisory Council

A Kean University policy center director has been appointed to the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council, which is charged with advising the Biden administration on national policies and programs to address environmental justice issues, including elevated levels of pollutio
View of the Clock Tower in the distance from Cougar Walk; pink flowering trees and spring greenery along the path.

New Urban Policy Institute Launches at Kean

The John S. Watson Institute of Urban Policy and Research at Kean will focus on practical, achievable solutions to improve the lives of people living in urban communities, building on the University’s commitment to scholarship and community service.