Contact Admissions

Freshman Admissions

Transfer Admissions

Graduate Admissions

Online and KEANetwork Admissions

Kean Ocean Admissions

Name: John Van Brunt, Assistant Vice President of Admissions

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. 

Contact me: (908) 737-7134, vanbrunt@kean.edu

Name: Sandra Mazara-Wheeler, Director of Undergraduate Admissions

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: Ryan Alston, Associate Director

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: Essex County

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, Senior 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 and gaming.

Recruitment Territory: Hudson County and Union County

Specialties:  Supera (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: Keri Brozyna, Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Jackson, New Jersey

Degrees: 

• B.S., Business Administration
• MBA 

Alma Mater: 

Ramapo College of New Jersey (B.S.)
Georgian Court University (M.B.A)

Hobbies/Interests: Going to the beach, riding my bike, being  outdoors, shopping, and spending time with my family. 

Recruitment Territory: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Monmouth, Ocean and Salem County.

Contact me: (908) 737-7147, kbrozyna@kean.edu

Deciding where to spend your next four years can be a tough decision. Once you visit our campus, you will feel a sense of community and experience what it is like to find your new home. I am grateful to help students build their legacy here at Kean. We are dedicated to academic excellence for everyone. You will find there are many ways to get involved, whether you are catching the train to New York City, joining one of our 160 clubs and organizations, or landing a top internship within your field. The possibilities are endless, and your journey has just begun! 

Name: Otamy Crossan, Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Harrington Park, NJ

Degree: B.A in Leadership & Professional Studies, M.A. in Higher Education Administration

Alma Mater: William Paterson University

Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with family, traveling, dining, shopping, and basketball 

Recruitment Territory: Bergen, Passaic, Morris, Sussex, Warren, and Hunterdon County

Contact me: (908) 737-7137,  ocrossan@kean.edu

We are not just a university; we are a home for knowledge, growth, and personal development. As your admissions counselor, I am here to help you navigate the application process and answer any questions you may have. I understand that choosing the right university is a significant decision, and I am committed to providing you with the information and support you need to make an informed choice. I can't wait to get to know you and help you take the first steps toward a bright and promising future!

Name: Jose Angel Rodriguez 

Hometown: Elizabeth, New Jersey

Degree: B.A. Communication Studies | Public Relations

Alma Mater: Kean University

Hobbies/Interests: Baseball, Hockey, Reading

Recruitment Territory: Middlesex, Mercer and Somerset counties.

Specialties: Alumni

Contact me: (908) 737-7104, jrodrigu@kean.edu

Kean University has always been a huge part of my life. Having grown up in such close proximity I have had the unique opportunity to see it grow into the campus that it is today. When the time came for me to choose where I would be pursuing my bachelor's degree there was no place I wanted to go to more than Kean. Now I share my personal experiences as an alumni and hope to show the next generation what Kean University can offer them. If you are looking for a place to call home and experience where a World-Class education can take you, look no further than Kean.

Name: John Piechnik

Hometown: Basking Ridge, New Jersey

Degrees: B.A. in Communication, M.S. in Education

Alma Mater: Monmouth University

Hobbies/Interests: Reality TV (Fear Factor Winner 2002), Traveling, going to the beach, ice hockey and enjoying life to the fullest with family and friends.

Recruitment Territory: New York, Connecticut, Massachusets 

Contact me: Call or text (908) 933-6143,  jpiechni@kean.edu 

For the past 20 years of working in College Admissions, I have always stressed to every prospective student - visit the campus.  Find your fit, speak to current students, tour the campus and make sure you feel the college matches your VIBE.  I guarantee the first time you walk onto the Kean Campus and meet the students and staff, you will not only fall in love with the 4 Starbucks, numerous residential halls, the Athletic Facility but each and every part of Kean University. I hope to meet you soon on the campus of the Kean Cougar!  Where Cougars Climb Higher!

Name: Kristian Zimmerman, Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 

Degree: B.A. in Religious Studies, M.A. in History

Alma Mater: Penn State University (B.A.), Millersville University of Pennsylvania (M.A.)

Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, reading, gaming, enjoying time with my family.

Recruitment Territory: Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia 

Specialties:  Veterans

Contact me: (908) 933-6161, kzimmerm@kean.edu

Finding the right college for you is one of the most important decisions you will make. It has to give you not only the education and experience you need for your future career, but it is also the place where you will live, learn, work, socialize, and ultimately graduate. I believe that finding the right college for you is a good feeling you get, like falling in love. Come to campus, take a tour, talk with students and professors, and experience the campus culture for yourself. Then in a few years, as you walk across the stage at your graduation, with your friends and family cheering you on, you can smile to yourself and say, "I'm so glad I fell in love with Kean."

Name: Sattik Sarkar, E.d.D., Associate Director of Transfer Admissions

Hometown: Howell, NJ

Degree: B.A. Political Science; Ed.M. College Student Affairs; Ed.D.

Alma Mater: Rutgers University (2001, 2011, 2019)

Hobbies/Interests: Working out, coaching Little League, reading (social science, politics, Space Race, memoirs), pop culture (Star Trek, The Office, Harry Potter, memorabilia, etc.), sports (Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, Red Sox, Rutgers), and spending time with my family (wife, two kids).

Contact me: ssarkard@kean.edu

Over twenty-five years ago, my first day on campus as an undergraduate student was an incredibly scary and intimidating experience. I was so impressed and reassured by the way the student ambassadors and staff made the transition easier for me that I realized I wanted to do the same for others. I became active on campus as a tour guide and orientation leader, launching my eventual career in higher education.  I got into higher education because of my own experience as a college student and that experience informs my work to this day. At Kean, you will find staff and faculty who are similarly dedicated to supporting your journey and ensuring that you have a memorable time here. We have a great campus that’s easy to get around, lots of dining options to satisfy every craving, plenty of hangout spots, and cool views of New York City. To me, what makes Kean stand out is the level of enthusiastic service and engagement you get from our team of dedicated ambassadors, staff, and faculty who will help you with everything from choosing your classes and exploring career options to navigating the ins and outs of Kean.

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.

Transfer Credit Evaluations: College of Education & Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences

Contact Phone/Email: (908) 737-7083, candidoe@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: Harold H. Carias

Hometown: Elizabeth, New Jersey

Degrees: B.A. Communication, M.A. Communication Studies

Alma Mater: Kean University

Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with family and friends, attending sports events, and visiting New York City.

Recruitment Territory: Union College, and Passaic County Community College.

Transfer Credit Evaluations: College of Liberal Arts

Contact Phone/Email: (908) 737-7106, cariash@kean.edu

As an alumnus and a first-generation college graduate, I am proud to be a part of a welcoming and diverse environment that Kean University offers to our multicultural students, faculty, and staff. I am honored to share my experiences as a Kean University graduate and now as a transfer counselor to all prospective students. Kean University is here to transform our diverse students into impactful global community members through engaged learning, excellence in teaching, applied and pedagogical scholarship, and service, providing leading-edge management programs in a world-class, innovative, and inclusive environment throughout our regions.

Name: Derrick Newton Jr., Transfer Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Chicago, IL

Degrees: B.A. in Psychology; M.Ed. in Counseling

Alma Mater: Connecticut College (B.A.); DePaul University (M.Ed)

Hobbies/Interest: Spending time outdoors (hiking, picnics, walks, beach days), Traveling, Adventure/Thrill seeking (Sky Diving, Paragliding, Sea Walking, Hot Air Ballooning), Cooking, Spending time with loved ones

Recruitment Territory: Essex County College, Hudson County Community College, Middlesex College & Raritan Valley Community College

Contact Me: dnewton@kean.edu

At Kean, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive community where students are not only academically challenged but also supported in their personal and professional growth. One of the most compelling aspects of Kean University is its commitment to providing hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for success beyond the classroom. Simultaneously, Kean University offers a vibrant campus life with a wide range of clubs, organizations, and events that cater to diverse interests and passions. Whether it's joining a student-led initiative, attending a cultural event, or participating in a community service project, there are countless opportunities for students to engage and connect with their peers. Overall, Kean University provides a supportive and enriching environment where students can thrive academically, personally, and professionally. With its commitment to excellence and innovation, it's no wonder why so many students choose Kean University as their educational home.

Name: Samantha Reilly

Hometown: Toms River, New Jersey

Degree: B.A. in Psychology 

Alma Mater: Georgian Court University 

Hobbies/Interests: I love to spend time with my family and friends. I also enjoy going to country concerts! 

Recruitment Territory: Bergen Community College, County College of Morris, Sussex County Community College and Warren County Community College. 

Contact me: (908) 737-7122, sreilly@kean.edu

Name: Helen Corpuz Ramirez, Director of Admissions | Graduate, International & Special Populations

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY

Degree: B.A., Psychology, M.S. Ed. Elementary Education

Alma Mater: Fordham University and College of Staten Island, CUNY

Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with my family & friends, seeing Dave Matthews Band as often as possible, writing, traveling, cleaning & organizing  

When I first stepped onto Kean University’s campus I was impressed with the beautiful architecture and the pristine landscape. After interacting and meeting Kean’s students, administrators, and faculty I quickly realized the real beauty of Kean is the community. The academic rigor of our graduate programs coupled with the state-of-the-art facilities will prepare you to meet your professional ambitions and career aspirations. Our faculty and administrators are dedicated to building relationships with industry professionals to offer internship and practicum opportunities. You will have the opportunity to impact your world and apply what you learn even before graduation. Kean University will meet you where you are and provide the knowledge and experience to enable you to Climb Higher. I look forward to welcoming you to Kean for a visit! 

Contact us: (908) 737-4723, gradadmissions@kean.edu

Name: Pedro Lopes, Associate Director | Graduate and International Admissions

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.

Contact us: (908) 737-4723, gradadmissions@kean.edu

Name: Amy Clark, Lead Admissions Counselor | Graduate, International & Special Populations

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. 

Contact us: (908) 737-4723, gradadmissions@kean.edu

Name: Kelsey Moragas, Graduate and International Admissions Counselor  

Hometown: New Providence, New Jersey 

Degree: B.A. in Sociology, minor in Psychology 

Alma Mater: Moravian University 

Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends. I also have a special love for all things Disney! 

Since starting at Kean University, I have gained an appreciation for the vibrant community and the strong commitment to student success. The faculty and staff display genuine dedication and care for our students by providing personalized support that helps them reach their goals. I'm proud to be a part of such a wonderful school and can't wait to help you find your spot here. Let's Climb Higher Together!

Name: Adrian Peralta, Graduate and International Admissions Counselor

Hometown: Elizabeth, New Jersey

Degree: B.S. in Marketing

Alma Mater: Kean University

Hobbies/Interests: Spending time with family and friends, Dancing, Playing Basketball

As an Alumnus, I experienced first-hand what a World-Class education from Kean University can do. From taking part in research to involving myself in student clubs, I can say that Kean University has positively impacted my professional development and growth due to all of the colleagues I have met over the years. The welcoming and diverse atmosphere is one of the hallmarks that make Kean the global university that it is today and I am excited to share my experiences as a Kean University graduate. The experienced faculty who are experts in their field will show you how to bridge innovation and curiosity together in a seamless fashion, while opening doors to endless possibilities for your career. We invite you to Climb Higher with us!

Contact us: (908) 737-4723, gradadmissions@kean.edu

Name: Michael Villanella, Assistant Vice President, Online Admissions

Hometown:  Berkeley Heights, NJ

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: 908-737-3239, mvillane@kean.edu

Name: Anisah Abdul-Baasit, Associate Director

Hometown: Irvington, NJ

Degrees: B.F.A Visual Communications-Graphic Design

Alma Mater: Kean University

Hobbies/Interests: Travel and Food

Contact Phone/Email: 908-737-3239, 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!

Name: Carl Wiltsee 

Hometown: Wenonah, NJ

Degrees: B.A. in History, minor in Theater Arts. Certificate in Technical Filmmaking

Alma Mater: Rutgers University(New Brunswick), New York University.

Hobbies/Interests: Film, theater, podcasts, cooking, camping, spending time with family and friends.

Contact Phone/Email: 908-737-3239, cwiltsee@kean.edu

Working at Kean University inspires me every single day.  Kean is recognized by U.S. News as a top-performing school for diversity and both social mobility and innovation. Kean embraces what I’ve always considered to be the true mission of education - to open the doors of learning to all who desire it and help them find the path from who they are to who they want to become.  As the KEANetwork Representative, I help achieve this goal by forming partnerships with businesses and organizations and ensuring that their members have an open door into all that Kean offers.   

Name: Brian McCormack

Hometown: Nutley, NJ

Degree: B.S. in Business Administration

Alma Mater: Berkeley College, NJ

Hobbies/Interests: Enjoying the company of my beautiful daughter Maddie, Golf, Hockey and my beloved NJ DEVILS

Assisting Online Students at Kean University in their educational journey, inspires me every day. Kean is one of the largest schools in this area, but through the customer service of our wonderful team, still maintains a warm family knit environment. I am proud to be part of this organization that helps change so many lives. Cougars Climb Higher!

Contact Me: (908)737-4008, bmccorma@kean.edu 

Name: Gabriella Britz

Hometown: Montclair, NJ

Degrees: B.S. Social and Behavioral Sciences

Alma Mater: Seton Hall University

Hobbies/Interests: Painting, crocheting, being at the beach

Contact Me: (908)-737-3913, gbritz@kean.edu

"Having previously worked at a couple of different universities, Kean has been the most welcoming and supportive, by far. I have always believed everyone deserves equal access to higher education, and we are achieving that at Kean. Our student body is a broad and diverse community, and with the help of Kean Online, students from all over have access to world-class education. I am inspired every day by students' drive to further their education and by my fellow staff's encouraging and accommodating attitudes towards them."

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.

Recruitment Territory: Brookdale Community College & Ocean County College

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.  

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 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 or click here to schedule your next campus visit. 

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Sincerely,

John Van Brunt
Assistant Vice President of Admissions