New Face

Karen Clarke

Senior Vice President for Strategic Communications and External Affairs
Division of University Relations
Kent Campus

JOB DESCRIPTION:

My job is to tell stories that illustrate ways the Kent State system impacts lives and makes a difference in the world. Who cares if people have heard of Kent State but don’t know a single “brag point” that illustrates our value? My vision is for our alumni, faculty, staff, students and regional community to LOVE Kent State and embrace this university much like they embrace the Indians, Cavaliers and Browns. Wear your blue and gold with pride, and celebrate being part of a diverse community of 39,367 success stories.

WORKED AT KENT STATE SINCE:

January 2017

EMPLOYMENT PRIOR TO KENT STATE UNIVERSITY:

Temple University, Philadelphia; University of Houston; University of South Florida (which isn’t actually in South Florida – it’s in Tampa due west of Disney World). 

LIKES MOST ABOUT KENT STATE UNIVERSITY:

Welcoming environment and friendly people; aspirational vision to be a community of change agents committed to bettering society; and seeing our incredible, tenacious students transform into passionate global citizens.

ATTRACTION TO KENT STATE UNIVERSITY AS AN EMPLOYER:

Visionary president. Enormous potential of the university – our reputation lags our exceptional achievements. I also love the city of Kent and our beautiful campus with public art and walking paths. We’re known for a painted rock and a giant brain – what’s not to love about that?

RESIDES IN:

Kent, Ohio

HOMETOWN:

Jacksonville, Florida

EDUCATION:

B.S. in Journalism and Spanish, University of Florida; MBA, Nova Southeastern University; M.A. in progress, Higher Education Leadership, University of Houston

HOBBIES:

Cooking, DIY projects, making jewelry, bicycle riding, photography, snorkeling, pestering my kids for grandchildren