On Monday, April 7, Kean University kicked off Unity Week with the second annual Students vs. Staff Basketball Game. From 6 to 8:30 p.m. in Harwood Arena, students gathered to cheer on their classmates and favorite staff members and enjoy the beginning of this year’s Unity Week. 

Upon check-in, students were able to get tickets to enjoy a sweet treat from DiCosmo’s Italian Ice and food from &Pizza. There were also Kean-branded clappers, beanies, keychains, and sunglasses for students to use while supporting each team.  

Michelande Volcy, an Exercise Science major and junior from East Orange, shared why she came in support of the basketball game and what Unity Week meant to her. 

“I wanted to support my RHD, Rakeem Jones, and show some school spirit. To me, [Unity Week] means coming together with the Kean Community.  

She also made it clear which team she was rooting for. 

“I want to see the staff win the game!” 

As the DJ played music each team was introduced with the student team wearing light blue T-shirts and the staff team wearing navy blue T-shirts. It was a competitive first quarter with the students ahead of the staff by one point with a score of 14-15. However, the second quarter ended with the staff being on top with a score of 26-23. 

Chamaine Halimana, an Architecture major and freshman from Connecticut, stated why she wanted to support both teams and what she was anticipating. 

“I decided to come to the basketball game because I thought it was a nice event to do especially as the school semester is coming to an end,” stated Halimana. 

“I'm looking forward to seeing students and staff being excited and people having a good time.” 

During the time-outs, student staff from the Student Government Association threw T-shirts towards the sections of the crowd that had the most Kean cheer.  

At halftime there was an exciting performance from the NJ Salsa club as well as a free throw contest that featured talented students and awarded winners with prizes. 

At the end of the event, Vice President for Student Affairs, Kerrin Lyles, who also played in the game, shared his thoughts and excitement for the next Students vs. Staff Basketball Game. 

“I think tonight was a really great night. This is the second time we’ve done this, and this is the second time it has come down to the wire. We all had a good time,” expressed Lyles. 

“As the staff, we are tired because we played against the young students, but we did well...I’m proud of the team, and I’m happy this was a successful event. We look forward to doing it again next year.” 

Both teams gave great effort and an entertaining performance to start Kean’s 2025 Unity Week. With a final score of 48-49, the students won the game and bragging rights for a year. The night was filled with fun and excitement for staff, students, family, and friends who came to support.