'Kean Research Fall 2024' Welcome Message from the Vice President for Research

Dear Kean University Community,  

Welcome to the Fall 2024 edition of Kean Research.  

We are delighted to celebrate the impressive achievements and continued progress within our research community. This publication is your semi-annual window into the work that defines our commitment to innovation, knowledge-sharing and impact. 

Kean Research includes highlights of significant research advancements, interdisciplinary collaborations and notable publications from faculty, students and staff. You'll also find updates on funding opportunities, upcoming events and initiatives that support our research community in their scholarly pursuits. In this edition, you will meet an amazing Kean rhetoric scholar, Dr. Joshua Guitar, and the inaugural Watson Scholar, Jessica Apai.  

A prime example of our global research vision is the launch, in Spring 2025, of the President's Global-Local Anchor Institution Research Grant Program. This competitive grant initiative supports projects at Kean’s U.S. and Wenzhou-Kean University campuses. Through this program, faculty, staff and students are working together on research addressing pressing needs in both Union County, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China. Key areas of focus include health and mental health, sustainability, and aging — all selected to reflect the role of Kean and WKU as anchor institutions that are making tangible contributions to our communities while preparing our students for successful careers. 

Our goal is to create a platform that fosters curiosity, connects our researchers and promotes the exchange of ideas across our university. Whether you are a seasoned researcher, a graduate student or someone who appreciates the incredible contributions of our research community, we hope this newsletter keeps you engaged with the exciting developments and growing impact of our work.  

Thank you for being a part of our community. Together, let's explore new frontiers of research! 

Sincerely, 

Susannah Porterfield, Ed.D. 
Vice President for Research