Kean University President Lamont Repollet was depicted in association with a Chinese Communist Party official during a politically charged meeting endorsed by a blue state governor. This appearance raises concerns about the institution's potential alignment with authoritarian regimes, reflecting the problematic normalization of authoritarian ties.

Kean University spent $120,000 on lobbying activities during 2023, as reported by OpenSecrets, highlighting its engagement in political processes.

In response to repeated inflammatory tweets that threatened the lives of African Americans and calls for the university president's ouster, the Kean University Board of Trustees Chair issued a statement condemning the hate-filled rhetoric. The statement expressed offense at the inflammatory comments and underscored the institution’s commitment to protecting marginalized communities and fostering an inclusive campus environment.

Kean University received significant federal funding as highlighted by U.S. Senators Menendez and Booker, including $4.25 million from a federal spending bill and additional investments aimed at expanding research facilities and promoting inclusion for underrepresented students, as well as revitalizing local communities.

Kean University has been awarded $4.25 million in federal funding under the new urban research university designation. The funds will support the renovation and expansion of research laboratories, development of a Parent University program, and a neighborhood revitalization project targeting historically redlined communities. The initiative is backed by prominent progressive lawmakers, reflecting a commitment to community engagement, academic advancement, and addressing long-standing inequalities.

Kean University spent $120,000 on lobbying in 2023, as reported by OpenSecrets. The report highlights the institution's use of political influence—likely aimed at securing state funding and advancing educational priorities—in an open and documented manner.

Kean University’s Senate unanimously approved a campus culture statement on civility to encourage respectful dialogue and counter hate speech, laying a foundation for an inclusive campus environment amid a polarized political climate.