Mission and Diversity Statements

Mission Statement

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies prepares students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in a technological, multicultural and global environment. Our mission is to teach students to think analytically, reason critically, communicate effectively, and lead responsibly. We strive to develop communicators who are adaptive and ethical citizens who will thrive in the workplace, in the community, and in careers in government, business, non-profit, and education. We strive to understand how communication affects identities, communities, and cultures. We offer hands-on skill development opportunities to prepare students for meaningful and fulfilling careers.

Diversity Statement

The Kent State University School of Communication Studies is committed to fostering diversity in all aspects of teaching, research, and service. Diversity encompasses multiple dimensions (as identities and/or expressions of those identities), including but not limited to race, culture, ideology, national origin, ethnicity, religion, beliefs, spirituality, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, age, body size/type/shape, marital status, parental status, and veteran status. We are committed to cultivating a community that values ethical behavior, mutual respect, social justice, freedom of access to information, and the open exchange of ideas among all students, faculty, and staff.

We recognize that diversity is essential in understanding the cultural competencies embedded in a variety of communication contexts. We strive to attract, recruit, and retain a diverse population of students, faculty, and staff from a variety of backgrounds to ensure that the perspectives of underrepresented populations are an integral part of our educational experiences. We see our commitment to diversity and inclusion as an indispensable component that drives our pledge to academic excellence. We strive to make our curriculum a tool that nurtures our students to embrace and advocate for democratic values and dialogue. The School of Communication Studies is dedicated to fostering an active community that respects diversity and empowers others to bring about social change.