Under the age of 35 and looking to re-engage with your alma mater and fellow Flashes. Then some of the new events and programs developed specifically for Kent State young alumni may be for you.
Kent State Alumni is excited to introduce the Young Alumni Council (YAC), with a mission to be a resource that fosters meaningful connections between young alumni under the age of 35 and Kent State. Developed in September of 2018, YAC currently consists of six executive board members.
Dennis Watson, assistant director of Alumni Relations, serves as the campus liaison. “We saw a need to engage our fastest growing population with one another and the university,” Watson said. “The council is committed to helping young alumni transition into their professional lives and will provide some great avenues for our alumni to expand their network.”
YAC executive board members all share responsibilities and work together to coordinate events and programs that cater to the needs and interests of young alumni. YAC is focused on hosting events in Northeast Ohio to serve the largest population of Kent State graduates, however, expansion into other areas will be considered in the future.
Lara Ward, ’16, is an executive board member and really enjoys being on the board. She likes how convenient and easy it is to be a part of a group that caters to the busy schedule of a young professional.
“I wanted to get involved because I feel like we graduate and get lost in the shuffle,” Ward says. "We would love to have more young alums join!”
24-year old, Spencer Smith, ’16, is also part of the executive board. “I wanted to get involved with YAC because it is a great way to meet other Kent State alumni and go to fun events that typically provide a behind-the-scenes type of experience,” Smith says.
The Young Alumni Council held its first event on April 7. Young alumni were invited to tour the Pro Football Hall of Fame, with the hall’s archivist and two-time Kent State alumnus, Jon Kendle, ’04, M.L.I.S. ’14.
In addition to events planned by the Young Alumni Council, there are other opportunities to mingle with Kent State young alumni. This summer young alumni are invited to the first Young Alumni Nautica Queen Cruise on June 15. This is great chance to have some fun with fellow Flashes and learn more about young alumni initiatives.
Whether you are interested in being a part of the Young Alumni Council or simply attending the events, Kent State is still here to help you along your journey. No matter your age or distance, you will always be a member of the Golden Flash family.
To see upcoming young alumni events or for more information on the Young Alumni Council please visit:
www.kent.edu/alumni/young-alumni.
By Angelique Cunningham