Donor Spotlight: Kean University Alumnus Hugo E. Almeida Jr. ‘88

March 2023

Mr. Hiltwein

Hugo E. Almeida Jr. ’88 recalls his graduation from Kean University as a proud day for himself and his family – especially his father. “I fulfilled our dream,” he said. “The first Almeida in the United States to graduate from college.” It is one of many successes that he credits to his parents’ influence, as they instilled strong values in their children with an emphasis on hard work.

In addition to being a proud Kean alumnus, Hugo is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Abitronix, a global information technology and communications company, a mentor to rising entrepreneurs, and a charismatic motivational speaker and podcast host. He selflessly devotes his time to serving in leadership positions with a variety of nonprofit businesses, community groups and educational institutions. The Kean University Foundation is grateful that he includes his alma mater in his volunteerism.

In December 2022, Hugo returned to campus as a speaker at the College of Business and Public Management’s Dean’s Forum. He shared his journey from Kean student to corporate executive to business owner with an audience of students who are currently shaping their own career paths. Hugo’s “Ten Tips for Young Entrepreneurs” were communicated with relatable lessons from his own experiences. His advice resonated with our students, many of them first-generation collegegoers, and further inspired them to persist in achieving their educational and career goals.

"Hugo's example of international business success and service to his communities is our wish for each graduate."

Mr. Hiltwein

Jin Wang, Ph.D., Dean of the University’s College of Business and Public Management (CBPM), expressed his gratitude for Hugo’s willingness to share his impressive career and valuable business insight. “It is our mission to transform diverse students into impactful global community members through engaged learning, excellence in teaching, applied and pedagogical scholarship, and service,” Wang said. Hugo’s example of international business success and service to his communities is our wish for each graduate. We were honored to have him present at the Dean’s Forum.

Hugo is also assisting the CBPM as a contributor and advocate forthe College’s mission. He finds the University’s growth since his undergraduate days “Just amazing!” and is excited to be a part of its continuing success. In particular, Hugo enjoyed the opportunity to address the students. Thirty-plus years since graduation, it seemed a full-circle moment to be a presenter at Kean’s Dean’s Forum.

He dedicated his speech to his father.

To learn more about planning a gift to your area of interest, please contact Eileen M. Cotter, Philanthropy Officer, via phone at (908) 316-8924 or email to ecotter@keanfoundation.org.

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May 2021

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