Founded in 1855, Kean University has grown to become one of New Jersey's largest institutions of higher learning. Kean was granted university status on September 26, 1997. While maintaining its significant role in the training of teachers, Kean has become a comprehensive institution offering 48 undergraduate and 28 graduate degree programs serving some 13,000 students. Across four undergraduate colleges and the Nathan Weiss  Graduate College, Kean's academic programs cover an exceptional range of disciplines.

Kean is a metropolitan, comprehensive, interactive, teaching university. A campus dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in higher education, Kean University supports a student-centered learning environment that nurtures the development of the whole student for rewarding careers, lifelong learning and fulfilling lives in a global society. It maintains a commitment to excellence and equity in enrollment, instruction and administration.

Kean is accredited by all major accrediting organizations. Many majors have accreditation in their field.

Mission
The Kean University Alumni Association's purpose is to promote the growth, status and mission of the University; to maintain a liaison between the alumni and the University community; and to develop alumni services as a means of encouraging alumni to maintain a continuing relationship with the University, its students, programs and events. The mission of the Alumni Association is to foster alumni loyalty, involvement and support.

Alumni Programs and Services
Alumni Mentoring Program and Career Network – keeps alumni active and involved with their alma mater and provides to current students important career development insight.

Class and Constituency Reunions – for alums of specific graduation years and constituency to reconnect with one another and with the University.

Cultural Programs – opportunities for alums to meet and network with fellow alums, to enjoy campus activities and to reconnect with the University campus.

Homecoming Weekend in the fall – activities for alumni, students, faculty and staff to come together to cheer our Cougars to victory, to celebrate the season and the University.

Regional Alumni Events – for alums in regions of the country with high concentrations of alumni to network with one another and meet with the President and faculty members for updates on the growth and development of our Alma Mater.

Alumni Recruitment Ambassadors – a joint initiative with the Office of Admissions to involve alumni in the important area of student recruitment.

Scholarships – for undergraduate and graduate students, who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership and contributions to extracurricular activities.