Community & Society

Michael Daniels, Director of the Student Multicultural Center

Michael Daniels is the director of the Student Multicultural Center (SMC) where he has the opportunity to make a difference on campus and continue the legacy of those who came before him. Daniels was recently awarded the President’s Award of Distinction for his success with the programs and initiatives offered by the SMC during a global pandemic. Learn more about Daniels as he answers these 10 questions.

Photo of Giovanni Santiago and Danny Pippen during 2020 autism awareness game

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many disruptions and changes to people’s lives. The Kent State University men’s basketball team has been affected, too, with schedule changes, games played in nearly empty arenas and extra safety protocols in place. However, one of the things that has not changed is the team’s steadfast commitment to autism awareness.

Sarah Shendy, ’06, Director, Ohio Office of Law Enforcement Recruitment

In 2020, alumna Sarah Shendy became the first Director of the newly created Ohio Office of Law Enforcement Recruitment. Shendy worked hard to achieve this prestigious position, but had it not been for Kent State University, she may have never gone into law enforcement.

Truth and Lies Graphic

Julie M. Mazzei is an associate professor of political science and faculty affiliate with the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Kent State University. When it comes to taking a political stance, she wants Americans to understand how to get the right facts to make informed decisions. 

McGruder collage

Kent State University students of the School of Media and Journalism are not afraid to use their platforms to document current issues of diversity at the university and beyond - and their work is gaining attention.

A woman places a flower through the bullet hole left in a sculpture on the Kent State University campus.

Kent State University invites educators of students in grades 6-12 to apply by March 1 for its 2021 Landmarks of American History and Culture workshop, “Making Meaning of May 4: The 1970 Kent State Shootings in U.S. History,” which has been made possible in part by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom.

Division of Student Life
Student pose for a picture at Lavender Graduation.

In a month synonymous with cupid, hearts and chocolates, it seems fitting that Kent State University’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Plus (LGBTQ+) Center is set to celebrate 10 years of love beginning on Valentine’s Day and extending through the end of the year.

Ceremonial Drum

Evgenia Fotiou, assistant professor of anthropology, was recently featured in Yoga Journal for her expertise on indigenous religions, healing practices and cultural appropriation.

Photos of the We the People display in downtown Cuyahoga Falls

Kent State University is merging research with global connections in the Global Understanding Research Initiative (GURI). The recently displayed “We the People” and the upcoming “Import/Export” exhibition provide cultural kaleidoscopes with local and international reflectors.

The U.S. Constitution on a U.S. Flag

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution grants us five freedoms: the freedom of religion, speech, press, petition and assembly. Each of these freedoms collectively gives us the right to be ourselves – expressing ourselves and enriching the nation through the free exchange of ideas. But there is some confusion among the general public about these rights. So we asked our Kent State experts.