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Since becoming president of Kean University in 2020, Repollet has launched several initiatives to not only raise the profile of the Union County-based public institution, but build a stronger, more vibrant community. Designated two years ago as the state’s first urban research university, Kean is “in the midst of a significant educational transformation” as it seeks to evolve from a respected regional university to an innovative national research university. As part of that effort, it has focused on aligning programs with diverse industries to support enrollment growth and close equity gaps. Some recent milestones include receiving more than $16 million in external funding in fiscal year 2024 for community service, academic and research projects. Kean also reported record enrollment of over 18,000 students for Fall 2024 at its locations in Union, Toms River and Wenzhou, China, as well as online. As he begins his fifth year leading Kean, Repollet, the institution’s first Black president, said during his annual Opening Day address, “Together, we will rise to meet the challenges ahead, exceed expectations and do our part to make sure that Kean University remains built to last.” He also highlighted several programs launching this year, like the creation of an office of student engagement within the president’s office, the addition of undergraduate degree programs in nursing and forensic biology and $100,000 to help more students study abroad.