The Garden State Initiative has made a $50,000 donation to Drew University to support the New Jersey Governor’s School in the Sciences (NJGSS), housed on the university's campus each summer.
GSI, which hosted the Governor Tom Kean Leadership Award Gala in September 2025, aims to strengthen New Jersey by advancing policy solutions that foster new investment, job growth, economic opportunity, and innovation. GSI members made the donation official at a check presentation ceremony on campus earlier this week.
“Gov. Kean has long championed the idea that strong leadership begins with education and opportunity,” said Regina Egea, founder and chairwoman of GSI. “Drew University’s role as home to the Governor’s School reflects that principle, and this contribution underscores our shared commitment to investing in students who will help shape New Jersey’s future through innovation, research and public service.”
The donation will benefit the Governor’s School, a three-week residential program where high school students are immersed in intensive college-level research on Drew’s campus.
“Drew University is proud to host the Governor’s School every summer,” said Drew University President Hilary L. Link. “This donation in honor of Governor Kean will be so meaningful to further the students’ experiences as they learn new science and research skills and explore possible futures.”
In addition to the donation to the Governor’s School, GSI has created a plaque honoring Kean’s leadership as governor of New Jersey (1982-90), chair of the 9/11 Commission (2002-04), and president of Drew University (1990-2005). The former governor is 90 years old and will turn 91 in April.
Given Kean’s strong ties to Drew University, GSI selected its campus as the permanent home site for the plaque, which will be installed in the Hall of Sciences. Gov. Kean’s son, Reed Kean, also attended the dedication and shared remarks about his father’s connection to Drew and the meaningful role it played during his presidency.
Each year, GSI administers the Governor Thomas Kean Leadership Award, recognizing individuals who exemplify the “principled, inclusive, and collaborative leadership Governor Kean has demonstrated throughout his life and career.” The names of future award winners will be added to the plaque each year.
