Kean University Announces Education Partnership with 2024 HBCU NY Classic

UNION, N.J. — Kean University, the state’s urban research university, will serve as the New Jersey Education Partner for the 2024 HBCU NY Classic and host a series of events on its Union campus in advance of the annual football tradition in September.

The HBCU NY Classic each year celebrates the cultures, contributions and competitive spirits of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This year, Howard University takes on rival Morehouse College on Saturday, September 14, at 3 p.m. at MetLife Stadium.

“Kean University is thrilled to join forces with the 2024 HBCU New York Classic, an event that celebrates the power of higher education and diversity,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “As a proud minority-serving institution, Kean is dedicated to fostering an inclusive learning environment that mirrors the values upheld by the nation’s HBCUs. This partnership presents a unique opportunity to further our mission, strengthen community ties, and inspire students from all backgrounds to pursue their educational dreams.”

Kean will host an exciting slate of public pre-game events, including a college fair, debate and step show. As New Jersey’s urban research university, Kean is an anchor institution, providing educational, research and cultural opportunities as well as resources to communities in the region and state.

The New Jersey Urban Mayors Association (NJUMA) and Urban League of Union County are collaborating with Kean and the HBCU NY Classic to offer their constituents discount tickets to the game and share information about the pre-game events at Kean.

“The HBCU New York Classic and the upcoming events at Kean University are enriching opportunities to celebrate community and the transformative power of a college education,” said Adrian O. Mapp, mayor of Plainfield and NJUMA president and chair. “We encourage everyone to take advantage of these informative and enjoyable events, and to join us for an exciting football matchup.”

Crystal A. Orr, president and CEO of the Urban League of Union County, said education is a key pillar of the organization, in addition to preserving Black history and traditions.

“I’m excited about the upcoming HBCU events that Kean University is bringing to our community,” Orr said. “From educational workshops and the college fair to the exciting step show and football classic, these events provide students with a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant spirit and culture of HBCUs. Since we do not have any HBCUs in New Jersey, it is crucial for our kids to be exposed to these institutions and see both the academic and social aspects of college.”

The HBCU NY Classic brings people together “in a vibrant and electric atmosphere at MetLife Stadium, with tailgating, live entertainment, and special guest appearances adding to the excitement,” according to a news release from event organizers.

“The HBCU football classic is more than just a game; it is a celebration of culture, heritage and academic excellence,” said Sancha Gray, Ed.D., senior vice president of entrepreneurial education initiatives and acting dean of the College of Education at Kean. “We look forward to welcoming participants and spectators to this historic event.”

David Jefferson Jr., Ed.D., acting director of the Kean University Center for Africana Studies, is a graduate of Morehouse College. He said he is looking forward to sharing the HBCU experience with Kean students.

“This event will allow Kean to showcase who we are at a premiere sports event and will be a beacon of community, unity and pride for all who attend,” Jefferson said.

The event showcases “the diversity and excellence found in higher education and athletics,” said Albert Williams, president and CEO of Sports Eleven05 LLC, producers of the Classic.

Through the partnership, community members from across the state will have access to the following special events on Kean’s campus leading up to the football game at MetLife Stadium:

2024 HBCU NY Classic – Education Day, New Jersey
Wednesday, September 11
10 a.m – 2 p.m.
Kean University | Harwood Arena
High school sophomores, juniors and seniors as well as community college students will have the opportunity to visit the Kean campus and navigate various college/university and educational booths at their own pace. Register to attend the event.
All registered chaperones and students will receive a voucher good for two (2) complimentary tickets to the HBCU New York Classic football game.

2024 HBCU NY Classic – The Great Debate
Friday, September 13
4:30 p.m.
Kean University | NAAB Auditorium

2024 HBCU NY Classic – Greek Step Show 
Friday, September 13
7:30 p.m.
Kean University | Harwood Arena
Ten step teams from Kean University, Howard University, Coppin State University and Long Island University, and other organizations perform in a dazzling and high-energy show. Purchase tickets.

All events will be held at Kean University, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union, N.J. 07083.

The 2024 HBCU NY Classic football game between Morehouse College and Howard University will be held Saturday, September 14 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The festivities will begin at 10 a.m. with YardFest, a family-friendly tailgate with vendors, games, food and fun. The game, featuring spectacular drumline performances and a battle of the bands at halftime, will be held at 3 p.m. Purchase tickets at hbcunyclassic.com.