Since LaunchNET Kent State opened its Kent Student Center office in summer 2012, the advisers have helped more than 1,500 Kent State University entrepreneurs and innovators, and now the unique “glass box” office is no longer sufficient.
“Your ideas grew so big that we outgrew our space,” says Julie Messing, LaunchNET Kent State’s executive director. Starting summer 2017, LaunchNET Kent State will be supporting Kent State students, faculty, staff and alumni with its innovative, entrepreneurial endeavors from a new home on the second floor of University Library.
“We are excited to join all of the amazing services in University Libraries,” says Zach Mikrut, LaunchNET Kent State’s program manager. “This is really a natural fit as we have been partners with them on many campus events and initiatives, such as the Kent State Mini Maker Faire and Innov8athon.”
LaunchNET will continue to maintain the visibility and accessibility to the university population for which it has become known. The University Library is a high-traffic environment that recently welcomed its one millionth visitor and annually coordinates a variety of events and activities. Being located on the second floor of University Library allows LaunchNET Kent State’s entrepreneurs convenient access to frequently used services, such as the Student Multimedia Studio and the business and entrepreneurship outreach librarian.
“We are extremely excited for LaunchNET to join the libraries’ family,” said Ken Burhanna, assistant dean of University Libraries. “University Libraries strive to be student-first, outward facing and focused on the success of all. That also describes LaunchNET exactly. So this a perfect match.”
The current LaunchNET Kent State location in the Kent Student Center will close during intersession in May. LaunchNET Kent State has set up a website to enable users to track its move progress. Advisors will be available throughout the transition period and can be contacted via email or through the website. In addition to Kent State, LaunchNET is supported by the Burton D. Morgan Foundation, which recently renewed its funding for Kent State LaunchNET and its programs.
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