The Lesniak Institute for American Leadership

What are you looking forward to during our EmpowerHer program? Don't miss out on our panel, networking opportunities, crafting, goodie bags, and free food!??? Registration is open to all! Visit this link to reserve your spot - https://lnkd.in/g5Ey7tHv?

Kean Day at the state house in partnership with the Kean University Government Affairs and Community Partnerships Office and the NJASCU! During the visit to the Trenton state house, students were able to engage with their representatives about the importance of higher education, Kean’s new standing as an R2 Research University, and the significance of civic engagement. This is just one of the ways Kean University makes civic education accessible to their students. We are thrilled to continue partnering with Kean and promoting legislative advocacy to their students! #CougarsClimbHigher

?? Exciting Announcement! ?? Today, we had the pleasure of visiting the Kean University Wellness Center as part of our commitment to promoting the essential services available to the student community. During our behind-the-scenes tour, we discussed the diverse offerings the Wellness Center provides, including the Counseling Center, Student Health Services, Alcohol and Other Drug Services, Accessibility Services, and the Cougar Pantry. These resources are crucial in supporting the well-being and success of our students. We're eager to continue collaborating with the Wellness Center and raise awareness of these valuable services that contribute to a healthy, thriving campus environment. Stay tuned for future updates about the final videos ??

Confused about the legislative process? Don't worry, we're here to help! ?? We're able to provide you resources and connect you with your representatives to get involved in your state and national politics! ??

Join us at the Kean University Career & Internship Fair on Monday, March 24th! We are thrilled to showcase our outstanding internship program and summer internship opportunities for Kean students. If you are seeking an internship, be sure to stop by our table for information on how to apply!?

A program made for women by women ?? Introducing EmpowerHer: Uniting for Women’s Wellness, an informational gathering for professionals and students to discuss the importance of community in women's health & wellness. This program will include a panel discussion followed by a networking activity. This initiative was created by The Lesniak Institute interns and will be held on April 4th at Kean University from 12 - 4 pm.

?? Attention Students ?? We are thrilled to celebrate the next generation of changemakers with The House of Hearts Network and Latino Action Network Foundation at the upcoming Breaking Barriers Conference - an event made by students FOR students! ?? Join us on May 1st at the Kean University STEM building 6th floor as we celebrate youth leadership and our ?? 2025 Keystone Award Recipients ?? Register by visiting: https://lnkd.in/eGNG4eKT?

We are thrilled to share our latest podcast episode featuring two incredible guests from the House of Hearts Network, Jeremiah La’Porte and Adrian Ghainda! ??? In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of youth advocacy and discuss the impact of the Breaking Barriers conference. ??? We touch upon valuable tips for young individuals looking to pursue their passions and make a difference in their communities. If you're ready to be inspired and equipped with the knowledge to take action, this is the episode for you! Tune in now and join the conversation that can help shape the future of youth involvement in advocacy and public service! ?? Available on YouTube and Spotify ?? https://lnkd.in/eH8Rx667 #YouthAdvocacy #BreakingBarriers #Podcast #Inspiration #GetInvolved

New Year means new interns!! We are thrilled to introduce you to the newest editions of the Lesniak Institute team - Mariam Abdelwahed, Ashley Guzman, and Jacqueline Mancilla. We are so excited to see what they will accomplish over the course of their internship - stay tuned for all of the creative projects we'll be showcasing!

We are thrilled to share our incredible evening at the NAACP Elizabeth Branch Freedom Fund Gala! ?? We were honored to be part of such a meaningful event alongside our partners at the NAACP Elizabeth Branch. The night kicked off with Senator Raymond Lesniak welcoming the guests and sharing a personal story about his long-standing relationship with the NAACP, dating back to his high school years. His reflection on the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion was a powerful reminder that the struggle for civil rights remains just as vital today. He ended his opening remarks by highlighting the outstanding leadership of President Shawn McClain of the NAACP Elizabeth Branch. But that’s not all! We are so excited to share that our remarkable Executive Director, Felipe Peralta, received the Distinguished Service Award! This award showcases his unwavering dedication and commitment, passion for his community, and ability to excel with any task thrown at him. We couldn’t be prouder of his achievements and the impact he makes every day. Here’s to honoring our past, celebrating our present, and looking forward to a future filled with even more progress and partnership! ??