Kean University Alumna Arlene Crescenzi Allen ’73 Honors Her Husband’s Legacy with Endowed Science Scholarship

Kean University has been profoundly impacted by the extraordinary generosity of Arlene Crescenzi Allen ’73, whose historic estate gift will open doors for countless students. As the largest endowed scholarship in the University’s history, her gift will ensure that Kean students in the sciences receive financial support to pursue their education and achieve their goals.  

Inspired by her late husband’s 45-year career as a chemical engineer, Arlene sought to create a lasting tribute that would open doors for future scientists at Kean. Her generosity led to the establishment of The Craig Edward Allen Endowed Scholarship for Students Pursuing Studies in Science, an unprecedented investment in Kean’s students and academic programs.  

Named in honor of her late husband of more than 50 years, this endowment will provide the equivalent of two full-tuition scholarships, including room and board, to deserving science students each year in perpetuity. By dedicating the majority of her estate gift to the Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology, she has strengthened Kean’s ability to provide scholarships and support students pursuing careers in the sciences.  

“This transformative gift is a testament to the power of philanthropy in shaping academic excellence,” said President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “By investing in Kean’s science programs, Arlene has created a lasting legacy that will expand access to STEM education and empower students to become leaders and innovators in their fields.” 

Dr. George Chang, Ph.D., dean of The Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics, and Technology, emphasized the gift’s significance, adding, “The Allen scholarship will have a substantial impact on our ability to maximize scholarship support for undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the natural sciences.” 

Beyond her impact on STEM education, Arlene also designated a portion of her estate gift to support Kean University’s Catholic Newman Club, reflecting her faith and connection to the organization during her time as a graduate student at Kean. As a long-time parishioner and Eucharistic Minister at St. Agnes Church in Clark, N.J., Arlene remained committed to her faith throughout her life. Her gift to the Newman Club serves as a meaningful way to support Catholic students at Kean. 

"Arlene's unselfish generosity is a shining example of how one individual's gratitude for their educational experience can make an immeasurable difference in the lives of others,” said William H. Miller, president and CEO of the Kean University Foundation. “Through the Allen estate gift, Kean University will continue to empower future scientists, which in turn will lead to countless scientific advancements for many generations to come." 

A dedicated educator, Arlene devoted 37 years of her life to teaching, primarily within the Clark Board of Education. She spent most of her career at Governor Livingston Regional High School before retiring in 2001 from Arthur L. Johnson High School in Clark, N.J. Her husband predeceased her in 2019. 

"Arlene's contribution is not only a tribute to her love for teaching, but it also reflects her unwavering belief in the importance of education and her desire to make a lasting impact. With this generous bequest, the Allen family's legacy will continue to provide life-changing opportunities for students long into the future," said Lori Funicello, director of planned giving for the Kean University Foundation. 

Thanks to Arlene Crescenzi Allen, Kean students will continue to dream, discover and achieve—turning her legacy into a future filled with possibility.