University News

A panel discussion at the Kent State University Fashion Symposium 2026 includes (from left to right) Brenda Tatenda Masocha, expert trainer in the Creative Arts Department at Rwanda Polytechnic-Kigali College; Alphonse Kwizera, “Made in Rwanda” business analyst at Rwanda’s Ministry of Trade and Industry; Matthew “Tayo” Rugamba, founder and creative director of House of Tayo; and Cynthia Butare, founder and creative director of IMIGANI. (Photo courtesy of Cornwine for Kent State University)

Coming Soon: Kent State University Rwanda

Kent State unveiled plans for the proposed Kent State University Rwanda and School of Fashion at a Kigali symposium, aiming to train designers and entrepreneurs to grow Africa's fashion industry.

Tags: University News , Global Reach , Global Impact , College of Honors and Global Education , Rwanda , School of Fashion , College of Aeronautics and Engineering

Kent State Today

Kent State University first-year students cheer during Convocation in the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center. (Photo credit: Rami Daud, Kent State University)

Kent State Named Among Best Global Universities by US News & World Report

Kent State University has been named one of the Best Global Universities by U.S. News & World Report for 2026-2027, the highest-ranked public university in northern Ohio on the list. The recognition reflects Kent State’s global research impact, international student enrollment, education-abroad programs and partnerships spanning more than 60 countries.

Tags: University News , Global Reach , Nationally Distinctive , College of Honors and Global Education , Rwanda

Kent State Today

A model showcases a design by a Kent State University fashion design student during a 2023 fashion show in New York City. (Photo credit: Rami Daud, Kent State University)

Kent State’s School of Fashion Marks 20 Years of Immersive Fashion Education in New York City

Kent State University’s School of Fashion is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its New York City Fashion program in Manhattan’s Garment District with a two-day event on June 11-12. The celebration includes a free Portfolio Showcase and Reception on June 11 and an exclusive philanthropic dinner on June 12, with proceeds benefiting the NYC Fashion Housing Fund.

Tags: University News , Nationally Distinctive , School of Fashion , NYC Fashion , College of the Arts

Kent State Today

Kent State students celebrate at their commencement ceremony in May 2026.

Kent State Board of Trustees Celebrates Another Successful Graduating Class,  Hears Details of University’s Positive Embrace of AI

The Kent State University Board of Trustees celebrated student success following spring 2026 commencement ceremonies during its regular quarterly meeting held May 20 at The John Elliot Center for Architecture and Environmental Design on the Kent Campus. 

Tags: Board of Trustees , University News

Kent State Today

Awards and Recognitions

Announcing the 2026 President’s Award of Distinction

The President’s Award of Distinction was created as a recognition program to reward staff members who have demonstrated outstanding achievements, service, leadership and dedication to Kent State in advancing the university’s strategic priorities and core values.

Tags: University News , Community & Society , Community Impact

Kent State Today

Kent State University blue arch

ADVISORY: Kent State University Board of Trustees Meeting, May 20

The Kent State University Board of Trustees will hold its next regular business meeting at 11 a.m. on  May 20 in The John Elliot Center for Architecture and Environmental Design on the Kent Campus.

Tags: University News , Organizational Sustainability , Board of Trustees

Kent State Today

2026 Spring Commencement

Kent State Celebrates Nearly 5,000 New Graduates at Spring 2026 Commencement

Kent State University welcomed nearly 5,000 new graduates into its alumni family last week, completing its spring 2026 commencement ceremonies across three days of celebrations on the Kent Campus.

Tags: University News , Students First

Kent State Today

A Kent State University student makes her way across the Kent Campus. (Photo credit: Bob Christy)

Kent State Suspends Pilot of Flock Safety Camera System

Following a pilot period on the Kent Campus, Kent State University has suspended the Flock Safety license plate recognition camera system, pending further review of potential concerns this fall.

Tags: University News

Kent State Today

A group of young women pose for a selfie after the White Coat Ceremony.

As Nursing Salaries Surge, Kent State Positions Graduates for Prosperity in Booming Healthcare Market

An Ohio nurse earning $95,000–$110,000 has comparable or better real purchasing power than a nurse earning $150,000 in California or New York, setting the stage for a measurable difference for Kent State nursing graduates who stay in Ohio.

Tags: University News , College of Nursing

Kent State Today

Advanced Degrees Commencement Spring 2026 April McClelland

IN A FLASH: An End and a Beginning

Commencements as a foundational activity of a university are memorable days filled with emotions - some celebratory, some bittersweet.

Tags: Spring Semester , Commencement , Community Impact , University News , Regional Campuses

Kent State Today