The Lesniak Institute for American leadership, based at Kean University, develops the next generation of American leaders, and partners with grassroots leaders from across the country, to advocate for social justice. Working with students and adults from across the state and nation, the Institute will present cutting-edge courses, workshops, public events and grassroots mobilization opportunities to make America a kinder and fairer nation.  In training both aspiring and current leaders, we will focus on four areas:

Legislative Advocacy
Grassroots Advocacy
Media Advocacy
Global Advocacy

The Institute’s values are rooted in equality.  Our programs and training reflect the work of the 40-year legislative career of Senator Raymond J. Lesniak, a renowned champion in New Jersey for civil and human rights, for narrowing the gap between the privileged and the oppressed, and for improving the quality of life of everyone.