Savon Harris was born to perform. The junior musical theatre major found his passion for the stage while he was still in high school, but he actually planned to pursue a different career.
“For a long, long time, I wanted to go into the trades. I didn't really see myself going to school necessarily, but when I found my niche and musical theater, I definitely was like, “I need to hop on this and pursue it,” Savon recalled.
In seventh grade, his father said to him: "Go show your talent to the world!" He did, and that decision eventually shifted his career trajectory toward the arts.
In high school, Savon won a Dazzle Award for Best Actor at Playhouse Square, a prestigious regional program that eventually led him to perform on a Broadway stage at the Jimmy Awards in New York City. “You're in front of 2,000 plus people in that big theatre. It was crazy... You just look out, and you're like, ‘Oh my gosh!’ There were so many people, and it's roaring,” he added.
Since arriving at Kent State University, Savon’s experience has been defined by professional growth and community involvement. Performing in productions like “The Wiz” and “Cinderella,” Savon has been "booked" nearly every semester. He also made his professional debut at Porthouse Theatre, Kent State’s summer outdoor theatre, performing in “School of Rock,” where he took on different roles in the same performance.
However, Savon’s career would not have been possible without financial support, and he is honest about that reality.
"How would my life look without scholarships? I probably wouldn't be in school right now,” he said. “The scholarships go a long way, and they help me tremendously. I'm truly grateful to receive those scholarships.”
Savon added that the generosity of donors has changed his life by allowing him to perform and keep going to school without having to worry as much about finances, noting the responsibility he feels to honor the donors who believe in his potential.
Through the generosity of the Kent State community, Savon continues to step onto the stage with a singular goal: to give back the same joy and energy he receives from the audience.
The generosity of donors ensure that students receive transformational scholarship support throughout their time at Kent State.
To make a gift now or to explore funds that benefit student scholarships, academic programs and more, visit our giving portal.