President's Award of Distinction

Course Scheduling and Assignment Administrator, Regional Campus System 

Kevin Deemer is known for his leadership, deep institutional knowledge and empathy, making him an invaluable asset to Kent State’s Regional Campus Academic Administration. In 2024, he stepped into a new role previously divided among five or more individuals. He oversees all scheduling across the Regional Campuses, leading with patience, humor and a student-first mindset.  

Kevin closely collaborates with students, faculty and staff, creating solutions that prioritize student success and retention. His ability to balance efficiency with compassion has streamlined operations while fostering connection and community. Despite numerous challenges, Kevin is known to work efficiently diligently all while embodying Kent State’s core values.   

Associate Director, Center for Adult and Veteran Services

Sarah Helmick has significantly enhanced the experience for student veterans at Kent State. A true example of Kent State’s core values, her leadership has improved access to education benefits and success for student veterans and their families. Sarah modernized the GI Bill benefit process, improving a once-complex system to better serve veteran students.  

Known for her empathy and collaborative approach, Sarah brings together campus partners to create inclusive, student-centered solutions. At the Center for Adult and Veteran Services, her colleagues describe Helmick as dedicated, innovative and imperative for the academic success of student veterans at Kent State.   

Custodial Crew Leader, Custodial Services 

For more than two decades, Ruby May has been a steady, hardworking presence in Kent State’s Custodial Services. As a custodial crew leader, she quietly leads by example and lifts those around her. Ruby has stepped into responsibilities without hesitation, all while supporting her team with professionalism and care.  

Throughout her time at Kent State, Ruby has mentored and trained many custodians, maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming environment for all on the university’s Kent Campus. As she prepares to retire this year, Ruby’s leadership and commitment will be felt long after her final shift.   

Enrollment Management Data Specialist, Division of Enrollment Management 

Emily Murray has made a lasting impact in her role within the University Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid, earning praise from all levels of Kent State. A true example of Kent State’s “Flashes take care of Flashes” spirit, Emily is known for her collaborative nature and problem-solving attitude.  

Emily has played a central role in major operational improvements, including creating a new budgeting process for more accurate financial aid calculations and developing key tools to support new Free Application for Federal Student Aid requirements. 

Whether she’s troubleshooting data issues, leading system improvements or supporting her colleagues, Emily represents Kent State core values and makes sure students get the support they need.    

Director, Marketing, Communications and Outreach, College of Aeronautics and Engineering  

Since joining the College of Aeronautics and Engineering in 2013 as a secretary, Liz Porter has advanced into roles of greater responsibility, ultimately earning her current position as a strategic leader. Recently, she has been a driving force behind the college’s enrollment growth and student retention.  

Liz leads a successful, three-person communications team that delivers consistent content across a variety of platforms, including social media, the college’s website, the Kent State Magazine, Kent State Works and more. Her colleagues say she reflects transformative leadership, professional excellence and a strong willingness to mentor others, leaving a meaningful impact on those around her. 

Director, Instructional Design, College of Public Health 

Serving on numerous internal and external committees, Jamie Rhoads’ commitment to quality and student success is evident in her long list of accomplishments. Managing online course development for the College of Public Health, Jamie led a key research initiative to support the development of the KSO Design Standards and Rubric, shaping online learning for instructors and students.  

Jamie also launched a professional development and outreach program for Instructional Design staff, improving resource and process efficiency. Her colleagues describe her as resilient, supportive and a true leader at Kent State, representing the future of the university. 

Special Assistant, School of Fashion Design & Merchandising 

Despite changes in leadership and procedures over the years, Karen Rodhe has remained a steady, reassuring presence who meets challenges with a smile and a solution. Her colleagues often speak of her patience, reliability and the sincere kindness she shows daily all while handling the financial aspects of the School of Fashion. Behind the scenes, Karen tackles the responsibilities of reimbursement processes, travel coordination and many more financial management tasks.   

This past year, Karen tirelessly supported the NYC Fashion program by creating a smooth experience for the school’s annual fashion show, making it the largest one yet. Her detail-oriented mindset, generosity and humble nature exemplify Kent State’s core values and validate her dedication to students, faculty and alumni in the school.