Kean University Names Rehearsal Space in Honor of Alumna Ellen Arlene Brautigan ’78

The Kean University Board of Trustees recently named the rehearsal space in Wilkins Theatre the Ellen Arlene Brautigan ’78 Rehearsal Hall in recognition of her extraordinary generosity and dedication to the University. 

Brautigan, who graduated from Kean in 1978 with a degree in business, left an indelible mark on the University through three decades of service on the Alumni Association board and her exceptional philanthropic support prior to her death in 2022. Her estate gift, valued at more than $500,000, will expand opportunities for students in music and theatre programs. 

“Arlene’s generosity exemplifies the profound impact that alumni can have on their alma mater,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “Her gift honors her love for Kean and reinforces our mission of fostering a culture of philanthropy. We are deeply grateful for her dedication and vision, which will empower generations of students to pursue their artistic passions.” 

In recognition of her great generosity, the Arlene Brautigan Endowed Music Scholarship Fund and the Arlene Brautigan Endowed Theatre Scholarship Fund will be permanently endowed, and two strategic departmental funds will also be established in her name to expand opportunities for both music and theatre at Kean University. 

“It’s a terrific way to honor the contributions and leadership that Arlene demonstrated to this community for so many years,” said Steve Fastook H'06, chair of the Board of Trustees. “She was generous to Kean on so many levels. It’s very appropriate to name the rehearsal hall in her honor.” 

Known by her friends as Arlene, Brautigan grew up in Union, New Jersey, and worked in human resources at companies such as Allied Chemical and Liz Claiborne Fashions. While her career was in business, her true passion was music, particularly jazz.  

“Arlene felt such a strong connection to Kean through our music program, so we felt it would be a great fit to name the rehearsal space in her honor to recognize all that she contributed to this institution,” said Lori Funicello, director of planned giving at the Kean University Foundation. 

Brautigan’s contributions to Kean included the establishment of a scholarship fund in memory of her brother, which provided support to students in the music program. Her dedication to the arts and education reflected her commitment to creating opportunities for future generations. 

Brautigan also found time to serve as a mentor and advocate for students, working tirelessly to promote the University’s mission of equity and excellence. Her planned gift demonstrates her deep understanding of the life-changing power of education. 

“There is no doubt that Arlene cared deeply about her alma mater,” said Ed Esposito ’69, ’72 M.A., president of the Kean University Alumni Association. She believed in Kean and the transformational impact that higher education has on young people. Arlene’s final gift will have a lasting and significant impact on students here at Kean in perpetuity, and her memory will be treasured forever.”