Students First

Kent State Today
Christa Porter

Mentoring has always been a valuable part of life for Christa Porter, Ph.D., associate dean for the Graduate College. The mentoring process never ends, according to Porter. She believes that mentees are meant to grow up and become mentors, passing on the mantle and creating a life cycle of mentorship.  

“Esplanade Walkway,” Kent State University Libraries. Special Collections and Archives

Kent State's University Libraries is the place for student success and research. It's a makerspace. It was recently voted "Best Place to Study" by the Kent Stater. It's a repository for journals, books and historical and rare materials. This might be the most traditional function provided by the library in this series so far, but it's anything but ordinary. Take the elevator up and into the past ... and then we pet dogs.

Mirando teaching

Anthony Mirando, Ph.D., associate professor of construction management, is driven in the classroom because his teaching philosophy is based on respect. He stays on top of his industry, and his enthusiasm and support for students is noticed and appreciated. So much so, students nominated him for an award. 

Students enjoy Late Night at the Library's Dance Party

At University Libraries students can study, tap into a database for a journal article, get a book, 3D print, grab coffee, have a dance party, participate in the Halloween Costume Contest ... wait, is this still about the library? Yes, yes it is. Part two of Demystifying the Library features the numerous ways the library can help students succeed – and have fun while doing it.

First Gen Students Pose at I AM FIRST Celebration

Hype music and large glow sticks pounded the air in the Kiva as the Nov. 8 I AM FIRST celebration marked the middle of I AM FIRST Week at Kent State, honoring first-generation college students, those students who are or will be the first in their family to complete a bachelor’s degree.  

Two students get that Summer Advantage

For many students, especially Lilly Kensicki and Nina Lozada, Kent State’s University Summer Advantage saves time and money – but it can also make dreams come true.

3D Printer in Action in the Student Multimedia Studio

The University Library is one of the most popular buildings at Kent State, serving as a study spot, a place to grab coffee and an academic resource for students. As finals season looms, Kent State Today takes a deeper look into University Libraries in a three-part series. Up first, a makerspace for creativity.

Kent State student LaKaleb Bowen, takes in the view during his July study abroad trip to Kigali, Rwanda.

LaKaleb Bowen, Kent State University senior criminology and justice studies major admits that he’s become a little addicted to Kent State’s education-abroad programs. 

Kathryn Wilson receives Distinguished Teaching Award surprise visit in class

Kathryn Wilson, Ph.D., professor of economics at Kent State University, designs her courses with the intention of having students achieve. Her attention to detail, respect from her students and her passion for teaching have earned her the 2023 Distinguished Teaching Award.