Center for Africana Studies Staff

Acting Director – Dr. David Jefferson Jr.  

Dr. David Jefferson Jr currently serves as Acting Director at the Center for Africana Studies at Kean  University, in Union, New Jersey. He is a professor of religion and philosophy, along with being an ordained  minister, actor, filmmaker, public speaker and lecturer. Dr. Jefferson is a proud cum-laude graduate of the  prestigious Morehouse College where he holds a Bachelors of Arts degree. He is also a proud inductee of  the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Morehouse College Board of Preachers and Laity. In addition, Dr. Jefferson  completed his Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, in Princeton, New Jersey  where he graduated with honors. Dr. Jefferson is a proud recipient of Princeton’s ’Kenyon J. Wildrick  award in homiletics. During his time at Princeton, Dr. Jefferson headed up President Barack Obama’s My  Brother’s Keeper initiative for the City of Newark, New Jersey. Dr. Jefferson completed his work as a  doctoral student in Educational Leadership at Saint Elizabeth University in Morristown, New Jersey with a  focus on higher educational leadership, management and institutional advancement with a focus in  finance. Dr. Jefferson was selected as the commencement speaker for the 2022 Saint Elizabeth graduating  class, one of his highest honors of achievement. He is also a proud recipient of the Saint Elizabeth Sister  Francis Raftery Excellence in Educational Leadership Award. Dr. Jefferson is an advocate for the  sustainability of Historical Black College and University (HBCU) preservation. He also proudly chairs  philanthropic endowment funds for professional athletes and celebrities eliminating the achievement gap  for youth at-risk. Dr. Jefferson is a proud life member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., where he has  served in an executive capacity. In addition, he has been awarded the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity  Incorporated, 2nd District Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays Divinity Award. He is also a Dr. Moses C. Norman Sr,  Education Scholar Award winner. Dr. Jefferson was honored as the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., Omicron  Chi Chapter 2021 Educator of the Year award winner. He has contributed to several publications most  notable Forbes magazine and U.S.A. Today. He is the proud co-parent of three beautiful children. Naiya  Jefferson, a Spelman Graduate, David Jefferson III, who attends Morehouse College and Ryann Jefferson  a student at Immaculate High School. 

Administrative Assistant - Lisia Aikens  

Lisia Aikens is a shining example of academic excellence and community leadership, whose transformative  journey began at Kean University in 1993. With a fiery passion for education and a heart devoted to  service, Lisia embarked on a path that would not only shape her own destiny but also inspire countless others along the way. As a trailblazer in the Exceptional Educational Opportunities Program (E.E.O.), Lisia  pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration, specializing in Urban Development, and minoring in Africana Studies. Her commitment to learning and community engagement became the  cornerstone of her remarkable tenure at Kean University from 1993 to 2005. Throughout her time at Kean,  Lisia's dedication knew no bounds as she embraced various roles within the university community. From  her humble beginnings in the Nancy Thompson Library to her pivotal role in program development within  the Office of Africana Studies, Lisia's passion for excellence shone brightly at every turn. As the  administrative assistant for Africana Studies, Lisia demonstrated unparalleled organizational prowess and  visionary leadership for 19 years. Her fingerprints were everywhere, from meticulously overseeing office  operations to masterfully orchestrating campus programming and activities, lecture series, community services and spearheading the Annual African Heritage Graduation Ceremony for an impressive 16 years,  consecutively. Nevertheless, Lisia's impact transcended administrative duties; it extended to the hearts  and minds of countless students whom she mentored and empowered. As a trusted advisor to numerous  student organizations, including the Pan African Student Union, the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC),  the National Council for Negro Women (N.C.N.W) and the Kean Gospel Choir, Lisia nurtured the seeds of  greatness within young leaders, inspiring them to reach for the stars. Lisia's unwavering dedication to  education and community service earned her prestigious accolades such as the African Heritage Service  Award and the Master Peace Program Community Leader Award. Her tenure at Kean University not only  shaped her professional trajectory but also instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility to uplift  others and foster positive change within her community. As a Diamond Life Member of the illustrious  Sisterhood of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Lisia embodies the values of sisterhood, scholarship, service  and social justice with unmatched fervor. Her active involvement in the Montclair Alumnae Chapter serves  as a testament to her lifelong commitment to learning and community engagement, solidifying her legacy  as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for all who are fortunate enough to cross her path. Lisia  Aikens: a force to be reckoned with, a leader among leaders, and a true champion of excellence and service. 

Academic Specialist - Wenmi Severino  

Wenmi Severino is a dedicated graduate student at Kean University, pursuing her passion for psychology  with a focus on Human Behavior and Organizational Psychology. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology  with a minor in Africana Studies, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to understanding societal  dynamics. With a strong commitment to ethical research practices, Wenmi has acquired certifications in  Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) in the Humanities, Social Sciences, Education, and Arts.  Additionally, her expertise extends to roles in Intensive In-Community (IIC) and Behavioral Assistant (B.A.)  Orientation & Student Conducting, where she demonstrates her dedication to facilitating positive  behavioral change. Currently serving as an academic specialist at the Center for Africana Studies, Wenmi  continues to make impactful contributions to her field. Her professional accomplishments are  complemented by her unwavering dedication to her personal life. As a loving wife and devoted mother of  three, she exemplifies strength and compassion in all aspects of her life. Beyond her family, Wenmi is  deeply involved in her community and her faith. She plays multifaceted roles within the First Pentecostal  Church of God Mission One Inc., including Church Official, Assistant to the Treasury, and Past Sunday  School Teacher and Ladies' Society President. Her active participation in various church activities reflects  her commitment to serving others and fostering a strong sense of community. In her leisure time, Wenmi  indulges her passion for decorating, event planning, and nurturing her relationships with loved ones. Her  diverse interests and unwavering dedication make her a valued member of both her professional and  personal communities.