Kent State University President Todd Diacon showcased the institution's far-reaching impact on Ohio and beyond during the annual Bowman Breakfast event held at the Kent Student Center Ballroom.
The breakfast, which celebrates the strong connections between the university and the city of Kent, provided a platform for Diacon to present the Kent State Works initiative, which launched in 2023 and highlights recent graduates and the university programs that prepared them to succeed in Ohio’s workforce.
Watch Diacon’s Bowman Breakfast address:
Key highlights captured by Kent State Today include:
- Economic Impact: Kent State generates a total economic impact of $4.9 billion for the state of Ohio. For every dollar the state invests in Kent State, there is a return of $9.47.
- Record Enrollment: The university welcomed 4,252 freshmen to the Kent Campus this fall, marking the eighth-largest freshman class in Kent State's history. Of these, 34% are first-generation college students.
- Graduate Success: Kent State graduates over 10,000 students annually, with 63% choosing to stay and work in Ohio after graduation.
- Research Excellence: Kent State has achieved R1 status, placing it among only five universities in Ohio and 146 in the nation recognized for very high research activity.
- Community Contribution: Approximately 28% of the city of Kent's income tax revenue comes from Kent State employees.
- Global Reach: The university has expanded its international presence, with 180 international freshmen joining this year's class. Kent State's global initiatives were highlighted through the work of Marcello Fantoni, Ph.D., vice president for global education, and his involvement with the Palace of Versailles.
- Program Recognition: Kent State's Fashion Design and Merchandising program was recently ranked third in the nation by two different publications.
- Affordability: Kent State was named the most affordable college in Ohio by Money.com, with 36% of Kent Campus students graduating with no debt.
Diacon emphasized the university’s role in driving economic development and providing opportunities for students across various fields, from aviation and nursing to fashion design and podiatric medicine. He shared success stories of recent graduates making significant contributions in their respective industries.
“Kent State works because Kent works,” Diacon stated, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the university and the city. He encouraged attendees to share Kent State success stories and directed them to www.kent.edu/works for more information.
The Kent State Works initiative focuses on Kent State graduates working in Ohio. As one of the leading higher education institutions in the nation, Kent State develops graduates who are making an impact wherever they go – from their own street to Main Street, and throughout the state.
About the Bowman Breakfast
For more than 60 years, the Bowman Breakfast has served as a platform to spotlight the partnership between Kent State and the people and communities it serves. The university works to build meaningful relationships and create a thriving, collective community for students, faculty staff and the citizens of Kent, Portage County, Ohio and beyond. The breakfast serves as a testament to the strong partnership between Kent State and the local community, showcasing how their collaboration contributes to the region’s growth and prosperity.