University News
Commencement Week Begins as Hundreds Earn Advanced Degrees
Kent State University's spring 2026 commencement season is underway, with the university set to confer nearly 5,000 degrees across ceremonies May 7-9 and May 15.
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.
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.
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.
Student Nominations Propel Jared Brown to Distinguished Advising Honor
Jared Brown doesn’t just build schedules; he builds confidence. His ability to turn academic stress into actionable solutions has made him more than just an advisor; it has made him the latest recipient of Kent State University's Distinguished Advising Award.
Kent State Celebrates Nearly 5,000 New Graduates at Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremonies
Kent State University will honor nearly 5,000 graduates from its eight-campus system during its spring 2026 commencement ceremonies on May 7-9 and May 15. The ceremonies will be livestreamed on the commencement website.
Kent State Marks 56th Anniversary of May 4, 1970, With Commemoration on the Commons
Fifty-six years after the Ohio National Guard opened fire on student protesters at Kent State University, killing four and wounding nine, the university community gathered once again on the May 4 site at the Kent State Commons to bear witness, reflect and reaffirm its commitment to preserving the legacy of that day.
May 4 Shooting Victim Inspires Students With Disabilities to Embrace Their Own
Dean Kahler is often quoted as saying he only had one bad day at Kent State University.
That day was May 4, 1970, when an Ohio National Guardsman’s bullet struck Kahler as he stood under a tree watching, from what he thought was a safe distance, a student protest against the escalation of the War in Vietnam. When the National Guard fired on the students, a bullet pierced Kahler’s spine, leaving him paralyzed and wheelchair bound for the rest of his life.
A Growing Legacy for Kent State’s 18th Year as a Tree Campus
Kent State marked Arbor Day with tree plantings at multiple locations across campus, bringing together students, staff and local children for a day focused on sustainability.
Kent State Marks Earth Day with Campus Wide Celebration of Sustainability and Research
Kent State University celebrated Earth Day with a campus-wide series of events that blended hands-on education, student research and community partnerships. From the Earth Fest on Risman Plaza to the scientific posters at the Environmental Science and Design Research Institute Research Showcase and the Electric Vehicle Showcase, the day’s activities highlighted how sustainability is woven into academic life.