Frances Marie Ehman Bellak '52

When Frances Ehman Bellak '52 graduated from New Jersey State Teachers College, affectionally referred to Newark State Teachers College by its alumni, little did she know that her beloved college (solely dedicated to preparing teachers at that time) would grow and expand to become Kean University, a world-class global university offering more than 50 undergraduate majors and over 70 graduate programs today.

After graduation, Frances became a first grade, and then second grade, teacher in Hillside public schools, a career which gave her much joy and satisfaction over many decades. In addition to teaching elementary school children, Frances also taught high school students with special needs.

Frances always dreamed of becoming a teacher. As a little girl, she would often "play school" by pretending to be a teacher to her dolls. Frances would line up her dolls on the stairs to the second floor of her home and educate them on the basics of arithmetic and reading. A full scholarship to 'Newark State Teachers College' made Frances' dream come true.

Frances has been a longtime supporter of the Kean University Foundation, and she is a proud member of the Kean University Medallion Society. In the spirit of Homecoming Weekend earlier this month, Frances had the opportunity to visit Technology High School in Newark, which was the original home to New Jersey State Teachers College, now Kean University. Frances toured the building, and had the opportunity to speak with students, teachers, and administration during her visit. The heart of a teacher never fades, as is often said. When visiting the students at Technology High School, Frances spoke to them about her own life experience and inspired them to achieve their goals and never stop reaching for the stars.