alumni-news

Kent State Alumnus Captures Notable Success
Influenced by artists like René Magritte and Piet Mondrian, Kent State University alumnus Jermaine Jackson Jr. believes the best way to get the point across in a photo is by keeping it simple.

Kathleen Rydar, ’67, ’80 MA Impacts Students' Lives Using Her IRA's Required Minimum Distributions
For Kathleen Rydar, '67, '80 MA, receiving support while a student herself sparked a lifetime of giving back. “These investments tucked away during working years present a remarkable opportunity in retirement to give generously to my alma mater while reducing my tax burdens."

Students Return to Florence
The first cohort of KSU students returned to Florence, Italy, this June with the help of an alumna.

Max Hoover
KSU alumnus Max Hoover brings unique flavor(s) to his hometown.
Max comes from a family of Golden Flashes. His parents, Erik and Stacey, ’93, both attended Kent State University, but this isn’t the only family legacy Max carries on. In 2015, his parents opened Cockeye BBQ, and they have since expanded the business to offer a sweet treat that would compliment their award-winning food - ice cream. Max is the owner and operator of Cockeye Creamery, a Warren, Ohio, staple offering unique ice cream flavors that showcase local and unexpected ingredients. Max uses his background as a KSU science major to experiment with innovative flavors for the creamery. While creating one-of-a-kind flavors is Max’s passion, he is grateful the business also allows him to make a difference in his family’s community. Get to know Max in his own words.
Kira Krivosh, ’05
Kira Krivosh, ’05, serves small but mighty community members in her new role as magistrate.
Samory Uiki Fraga, ’19
Samory Uiki Fraga, ’19, began track at eight years old and has been on the run ever since.

Kent State Alumna and Journalist Finds Additional Success on Social Media
Kent State alumna Jeannette Reyes, ’12, uses TikTok for fun outside of her television anchor responsibilities at FOX 5 Washington, D.C. Last October, Reyes posted a video with her husband using their “anchor talk” voices to decide on choices for dinner. She never expected her video to gain so much momentum.
Distinguished Teaching Award Recipients Announced
This year's 2020 Distinguished Teaching Award (DTA) recipients are an outstanding group of teachers who are truly dedicated to their students' success. Sponsored by the Kent State Alumni Association, the DTA is the university’s most prestigious honor in teaching. The award is presented annually to three full-time faculty members who demonstrate extraordinary teaching, whether it be in the classroom or online.