Administrative Department

Office of External Affairs

The Office of External Affairs serves as a bridge between Montclair State University and the broader community. Through strategic partnerships, government engagement, economic development, and special initiatives, External Affairs works to advance the University’s mission, strengthen institutional relationships, and create opportunities that benefit students, faculty, staff, and the region.

Office of External Affairs
973-655-4859
Susan A. Cole Hall 231
View of NYC skyline from campus on a partly cloudy day

Who We Are

External Affairs connects the University with government agencies, community stakeholders, business leaders, and external partners to support growth, advocacy, and innovation. The office also serves as a central point of coordination for initiatives that require collaboration across multiple constituencies.

In addition to external engagement, the office advises the President and senior leadership on public policy, community priorities, economic development opportunities, and strategic partnerships that strengthen the University’s impact, reputation, and long-term goals.

The Office of External Affairs welcomes opportunities to collaborate across the University. Whether you are exploring a partnership, coordinating with an external stakeholder, or looking to connect with government or community partners, we are here to help.

Leadership & Key Roles

Keith Barrack

  • Vice President for External Relations and Chief of Staff

Dan Jennings

  • Executive Director of Real Estate and Economic Development
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What We Do

External Affairs works with local, state, and federal partners to advance University priorities through advocacy, relationship building, and public engagement.

This work includes:

  • Building and maintaining relationships with elected officials and government agencies

  • Monitoring legislation and policy developments that impact higher education

  • Supporting funding opportunities and strategic initiatives

  • Representing University priorities in public affairs and external engagement

  • Strengthening partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders

External Affairs supports initiatives that position Montclair State University as a driver of regional economic growth and innovation.

This work includes:

  • Exploring strategic real estate opportunities that support institutional priorities

  • Developing partnerships with industry, business, and government organizations

  • Advancing workforce and economic development initiatives

  • Identifying opportunities that enhance the University’s role as an economic anchor institution

  • Supporting projects that strengthen connections between the University and the surrounding region

External Affairs collaborates across the University to advance high-impact initiatives that require coordination with external organizations, partners, and stakeholders.

This work includes:

  • Supporting presidential and institutional priorities

  • Coordinating special projects and cross-functional initiatives

  • Facilitating partnerships that expand the University’s reach and visibility

  • Engaging with external partners to identify opportunities for collaboration

Tree with pink blossoms in front of Cole Hall

How We Support Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff may engage with External Affairs for support with:

  • Government and legislative engagement opportunities
  • Community partnerships and external collaborations
  • Strategic initiatives involving external organizations or stakeholders
  • Economic development or workforce partnership opportunities
  • Coordination related to public officials, agencies, or community partners
  • Cross-divisional special projects involving external engagement
     

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