SAGE Recognition & Celebration

The SAGE Recognition & Celebration gets its name from the meaning of sage. In the Native American culture sage is used for healing and bringing someone’s life back into balance by cleansing the body and mind of negativity. Additionally sage means wisdom, renewal, harmony and growth. In this spirit, we are seeking to use The SAGE Recognition & Celebration to highlight students who have found balance, growth and/or renewal through their collegiate path and to inspire this in others.


History of SAGE Recognition & Celebration

The Sage Project began with an inaugural class of 10 students in the Spring of 2015 as a way to celebrate and recognize students who had overcome adversity to achieve success at Kent State. During the past six years, the Women's Center has honored over 50 students who have persevered through challenges and served as an inspiration to others to continue their Kent State journey. Knowing what a powerful and inspirational experience this is for the students being honored and those inspired by them, the initiative expanded from the Women's Center to include the entire Equity, Identity, and Success pillar in the Division of Student Affairs.

The Equity, Identity, and Success pillar consists of: Center for Adult and Veteran Services, LGBTQ+ Center, Office of International Student Affairs, Student Accessibility Services, Student Multicultural Center, and Women’s Center.


Eligibility Criteria

  • Student enrolled at Kent State University as a full-time student during the award period 
  • In good academic standing (2.0 cumulative GPA Undergraduate and 3.0 cumulative GPA Graduate) 
  • Graduating on or after May 2023

Nomination Process

The selection committee will review all nominations and select amazing individuals to be a part of this year's Sage Recognition and Celebration. They will be contacted and interviewed to gather the breadth of their stories. Their stories will be highlighted on the Division of Student Affairs website and social media as part of an ongoing initiative to not only honor them but to inspire others.

Stay tuned for 2024 information!


Previous Honorees:

Class of 2023
Class of 2022
Class of 2020
Class of 2018
Class of 2017
Class of 2016
Class of 2015