At 99 years old, Carmen Cicero is still creating and inspiring. In this powerful alumni story, the Newark-born artist reflects on modern art, improvisation, and the resilience it took to rebuild after a devastating studio fire. From studying at Kean University to exhibiting at MoMA, the Newark Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Guggenheim, Cicero’s extraordinary journey is a testament to perseverance and creative courage.#KeanUniversity #CougarsClimbHigher #alumni #highereducation #artist Visit the Kean University WEBSITE: https://www.kean.edu Follow us on TWITTER - https://twitter.com/KeanUniversity Follow us on INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/keanuniversity/ Like us on FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/keanuniversity/Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. Plan a visit to Kean https://www.kean.edu/visit

#KeanUniversity #CougarsClimbHigher Visit the Kean University WEBSITE: https://www.kean.edu Follow us on TWITTER - https://twitter.com/KeanUniversity Follow us on INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/keanuniversity/ Like us on FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/keanuniversity/Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. Plan a visit to Kean https://www.kean.edu/visit

A Family Affair showcases Newark native Timothy J. Simmons and his powerful paintings celebrating African American family life, identity, and belonging. Through intimate scenes of music, marriage, conversation, and everyday joy, Simmons challenges stereotypes and affirms Black excellence in America. His work invites viewers into a space of reflection, connection, and shared humanity, reminding us that everyone has a place in the American story.#KeanUniversity #CougarsClimbHigher Visit the Kean University WEBSITE: https://www.kean.edu Follow us on TWITTER - https://twitter.com/KeanUniversity Follow us on INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/keanuniversity/ Like us on FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/keanuniversity/Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. Plan a visit to Kean https://www.kean.edu/visit

Paper Trails by Laura Shabazz transforms rescued books and upcycled magazines into painterly, representational collage. Using book covers, spines, illustrations, and pages of text, Shabazz explores storytelling, memory, and the traces we leave behind. Created from discarded printed materials diverted from the landfill, this exhibition reflects on imagination, visual experience, and the therapeutic act of ripping, rearranging, and rebuilding paper into powerful works of art.#KeanUniversity #CougarsClimbHigher Visit the Kean University WEBSITE: https://www.kean.edu Follow us on TWITTER - https://twitter.com/KeanUniversity Follow us on INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/keanuniversity/ Like us on FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/keanuniversity/Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. Plan a visit to Kean https://www.kean.edu/visit

Hub City explores the overlooked history of slavery and freedom in New Brunswick, New Jersey through visual art, theater, and music. Created by Jaymes Jorsling during his residency with Calabar Gallery at coLAB Arts, this interdisciplinary exhibition examines America’s racial trauma through family legacy, spirituality, and historical reckoning. By reimagining New Brunswick as both a site of bondage and liberation, Hub City invites audiences to reflect on identity, memory, and the ongoing journey toward humanization and truth.#keanuniversity #CougarsClimbHigher Visit the Kean University WEBSITE: https://www.kean.edu Follow us on TWITTER - https://twitter.com/KeanUniversity Follow us on INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/keanuniversity/ Like us on FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/keanuniversity/Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. Plan a visit to Kean https://www.kean.edu/visit

Kean University Distinguished Professor Robin Landa discusses how authenticity, differentiation and intentional design shape powerful, values-driven leadership. The best-selling author shares strategies for standing out, earning trust and leading with clarity and delivers actionable insight to help aspiring authors and professionals take bold next steps in their careers. The book "Leadership by Design" is available at Amazon.com (https://a.co/d/02qQW1kV)

Kean University’s new Office of Belonging and Community Engagement, housed within the Division of Student Success and Retention, is a welcoming space where students feel heard, respected and supported. From building community to offering guidance and connection, the office will play a powerful role in helping students thrive and reach the finish line.This video features:Katherine Gallagher, J.D. Senior Vice President for Student SuccessSuhavi Singh StudentUgochi Adibemma StudentAlice De Souza StudentSaurabh Ghosh StudentMensah Peterson, Ed.D. Associate Vice President for Advising, Persistence and SuccessVisit the Kean University WEBSITE: https://www.kean.edu Follow us on TWITTER - https://twitter.com/KeanUniversity Follow us on INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/keanuniversity/ Like us on FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/keanuniversity/Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. Plan a visit to Kean https://www.kean.edu/visit

The Spring 2026 exhibitions at the Galleries at Kean feature artists exploring Black history, disability access, identity and community. From layered paintings and vibrant collages to intimate portraits and archival collections, the season highlights art as a powerful force for storytelling and connection.#KeanUniversity #CougarsClimbHigher Visit the Kean University WEBSITE: https://www.kean.edu Follow us on TWITTER - https://twitter.com/KeanUniversity Follow us on INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/keanuniversity/ Like us on FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/keanuniversity/Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. Plan a visit to Kean https://www.kean.edu/visit

High school students gathered at Kean University to reflect on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and learn how to turn his lessons into meaningful action. The Human Rights Institute Council on Global Education and Citizenship conference emphasized courage, empathy, nonviolence and the power of student voices to effect change.Sarah Coykendall '18 Managing Assistant Director, Human Rights InstituteAyisha Mapp Managing Assistant Director of Community Partnerships, Office of Government Affairs and Community PartnershipsAlyssa Alvarez AmeriCorps VISTA and Civic Engagement Coordinator, Human Rights InstituteFaith Taylor Student; President, Human Rights Club#keanuniversity #CougarsClimbHigher Visit the Kean University WEBSITE: https://www.kean.edu Follow us on TWITTER - https://twitter.com/KeanUniversity Follow us on INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/keanuniversity/ Like us on FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/keanuniversity/Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. Plan a visit to Kean https://www.kean.edu/visit

Kean University has partnered with the La Pica Project in Puerto Rico to transform a former youth correctional facility into a center for education, innovation and opportunity. Rooted in community needs, this collaboration strengthens ties between Puerto Rico and New Jersey while expanding access to education and opportunity for local communitiesThis video features:Carlos Rodriguez, Ed.D. Senior Vice President of AdministrationDavid Aviles Executive Director United Clergy Task Force (UCFT)Lizette Delgado Polanco Executive Director NJCU FoundationSonia I. Irizarry Director of Entrepreneurial Education Initiatives (EEI) Project AdelanteAndrés Acebo, J.D. President, NJCU#KeanUniversity #CougarsClimbHigher #puertorico orico #Lapicaproject Visit the Kean University WEBSITE: https://www.kean.edu Follow us on TWITTER - https://twitter.com/KeanUniversity Follow us on INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/keanuniversity/ Like us on FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/keanuniversity/Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. Plan a visit to Kean https://www.kean.edu/visit