Kean's R2...What's Next?: Understanding What R2 Status Means for Kean University Students and Faculty
Dyquan Waters
Co-Presenters: Delia Latini, Zaeana Santos, Ugochi Adibemma
College: College of Liberal Arts
Major: Commmunication
Faculty Research Mentor: Keisha Griffin
Abstract:
On February 13th, 2025, Kean University earned R2 research university designation under the Carnegie Classification of Institute of Higher Education. This designation was long awaited, and preceded by the Kean's 2021 legal identification as New Jersey's Urban Research University. Kean University serves as an anchor institution, emphasizing its commitment to to the values of Urban Research. Kean University earning R2 status could be greatly beneficial to the Kean and academic community at-large, including students, faculty, staff, and the public. Given the existing Urban Research initiatives, the R2 designation has the potential to propel the work being done at Kean to even heigher heights.The Watson Institute's 2024 Research Day presentation explored what Urban Research means for the Kean Community and its Stakeholders. Our presentation for this year furthered this work with a qualitative analysis on how this increased reach as a result of R2 benefits Kean students, faculty, and staff, by providing opportunities for research funding and grants, publishing in academic journals, and similar promising opportunities for the educational and professional advancement of our students and faculty.