University News

Taking Charge: Todd Diacon Assumes Presidency, Meets With Community and Student Leaders
As Todd Diacon, Ph.D., steps into his new role as Kent State University’s 13th president, his schedule for his first day includes an early workout at the Warren Student Recreation and Wellness Center, a breakfast with community leaders at the Kent State University Hotel and Conference Center and a luncheon on campus with student leaders.

Annual Twinsburg Twins Days Festival Injects Millions Into Local Economy, According to Kent State Researcher
According to an economic impact study on the 2018 event conducted by Kent State University College of Business Administration Associate Professor of Economics Shawn Rohlin, Ph.D., the annual Twins Days Festival provides a substantive positive economic impact to the city of Twinsburg and surrounding areas.

Governor Names Ann Womer Benjamin to Kent State Board of Trustees
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has appointed Ann Womer Benjamin, J.D., of Aurora, Ohio, to the Kent State University Board of Trustees. Her appointment began June 21, 2019, and ends May 16, 2028.

Kent State Director and Associate Professor Molly Merryman Offers Perspective on LGBTQ Community
Molly Merryman, Ph.D., the founding director of Kent State University's Center for the Study of Gender and Sexuality and associate professor of sociology in the College of Arts and Sciences, was featured in a USA TODAY opinion piece that outlined black transgender women’s contributions to the LGBTQ movement.
Kent State Debuts ‘Inside-Out’ Program, Holding History of Crime Class with Inmates at Area Prison
The class began with the normal jockeying of students – some trying to find a seat, others attempting last-minute reviews with classmates before they had to present group projects, still others racing in at the last minute.

Talk Show Host and Former Kent State Student Steve Harvey Pays It Forward
Steve Harvey, producer, actor, author and former Kent State University student, is paying it forward by awarding eight of Kent State’s incoming freshmen with scholarships that will cover the total cost of attendance for each student.

From the Football Field to the Small Screen: Josh Cribbs to Co-Host Television Show With Wife, Maria
Kent State alumnus Josh Cribbs, a former star on the football field, will now become a star on the small screen with his wife, Maria. The prominent Cleveland couple will co-host their own local talk show called “Cribbs in the CLE: Josh and Maria Live” beginning this fall on WOIO and WUAB.

Interim Dean and Chief Administrative Officer is Named for Kent State University at Trumbull
Daniel E. Palmer, Ph.D., has been appointed interim dean and chief administrative officer of Kent State University at Trumbull, effective July 1.

Veronica Cook Euell Receives Communicator Award
Presented at a ceremony held during the association’s 2019 Annual Meeting in Kansas City, Missouri, the award recognizes a member for outstanding performance in representing the purchasing profession through the written or spoken word by teaching, speaking or publishing.

Sharing Stories of Inspiration: Kent State’s “We the People” Exhibit
The exhibit spanned the Lefton Esplanade throughout the spring showcasing large photographs of individuals who fled their home countries and now live in Northeast Ohio. The refugees featured in the display fled their home countries to avoid war, oppression and danger.