Members of the Kean University Athletics Department recently participated in the Kean Travelearn trip to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, a city recognized globally as a hub for innovation, sustainability, and artificial intelligence. The delegation included Vice President Kelly Williams, Deputy Director of Athletics Therese Doyle Tullis, Managing Assistant Director of Recreation and External Affairs B.J. Johnson, and Head Flag Football Coach Mandrele Hansford.

During the visit, the Kean Athletics team met with Dr. Sara Montero, Dean of Student Affairs, Mr. Elie Sawaya, Director of Central Services, and Mr. Joseph Nohra, Director of Athletics at the American University of Dubai. The purpose of the meeting was to explore opportunities for collaboration between the two institutions. Discussions centered on building partnerships with AUD's athletics program.  Additional topics included mental health best practices, leadership development programming, resource sharing, and recruiting strategies. The visit concluded with a tour of the campus, which highlighted AUD's athletic facilities and academic buildings.

The delegation also spent time with students at GEMS Modern Academy, where they hosted a flag football clinic. Led by Coach Hansford, the clinic featured a dynamic warm-up session, offensive and defensive skill stations, and concluded with a conversation about the lifelong impact of sports. This interaction provided an opportunity to share knowledge, inspire young athletes, and strengthen Kean's commitment to global engagement through athletics.

"Our trip to Dubai was a powerful reminder of the impact athletics can have in building global connections. Engaging with our colleagues at the American University of Dubai and connecting with students and staff at GEMS Academy reinforced Kean University's commitment to international collaboration, student development and using sports as a vehicle for leadership and cultural exchange." - Vice President Kelly Williams