Kean Cougar Connections Center of Social Work Welcomes Students to New Space
Kean's Cougar Connections Center of Social Work welcomes students to new space at CAS 124.
A new home on the first floor of Kean’s Center for Academic Success (CAS) will make the University’s Cougar Connections Center of Social Work (CCCSW) even more accessible and inviting for students.
The CCCSW moved to its new suite at CAS 124 on January 13, opening a safe, comfortable spot for students to access services or simply take a break, said Kean Chief Wellbeing Officer Erika Charles.
“The best part about having this new space is improving student access to services and the opportunity to expand our support,” Charles said. “The space is centrally located and increases accessibility for students to seek support during their college experience. The center offers a safe and comfortable space for students who simply need to take a break, and a warm and inviting environment for all students.”
The CCCSW will host a student open house and ribbon cutting at the new space on Thursday, February 6, 2025 during college hour. Faculty and staff are welcome as well.
Kean’s CCCSW launched during the Covid-19 pandemic, when Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. saw a need for students to receive additional support from social workers.
The CCCSW provides comprehensive student support services to address food and housing insecurity, mental health and life skills development, transitioning to college, affordable health care, financial challenges, childcare needs or any impact to student wellbeing. The new space also includes a Comfort Room, in which students have access to a quiet, warm and supportive environment.
Previously, the CCCSW needed to use other spaces around campus for some activities, Charles said. In the new setting, the center is exploring offering programs such as life skills groups, group study sessions, “de-stress fests”, movie nights and more.
CCCSW has served more than 1,000 students since 2021. Students said they’ve received help with homelessness, dealing with stress and other issues they encountered at college.