More than 80 Kent Stater alumni RSVP’d to celebrate a milestone a century in the making: 100 years of student journalism. At Kent State’s Homecoming 2026 parade, alumni served as grand marshals, rode on two floats and walked alongside fellow alumni to celebrate the newspaper that connects generations of student journalists.
A special thank-you goes to Kent State’s Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement for helping bring the Stater’s history to life at the Homecoming tailgate. Attendees could explore that legacy through a timeline mural spanning the newspaper’s 100 years, a word search created by current Kent Stater Managing Editor Ari Collins and a cartoon by current Kent Stater illustrator Braxton Sullivan. These contributions made the celebration even more memorable.
To everyone who emailed their support, shared stories and encouragement, attended an event or helped celebrate this milestone: Thank you! Your enthusiasm and dedication are what make The Kent Stater’s legacy so special. For a century, this newspaper has thrived because of the people who have contributed their time, talent and passion. Seeing generations of alumni come together was a powerful reminder that the Stater’s impact extends far beyond its pages.
The celebration continues beyond Homecoming! An exhibit featuring 100 years of Kent Stater history, including memorabilia donated by alumni, is on display on the first floor of the Kent State University Library through January. The Patrick O’Connor exhibit is also on display in Franklin Hall through December. Stop by to revisit the people, stories and moments that have shaped the Stater’s legacy.
A century of student journalism is worth celebrating, and the people who have contributed to the Stater’s history are a big part of that legacy. Here’s to honoring the past, supporting the next generation of student journalists and celebrating another 100 years of independent student journalism at Kent State!
