Kent State University President Todd Diacon returned to his alma mater, Wellington High School (WHS) in Wellington, Kansas, to be recognized along with other alumni for their accomplishments since their graduation.
The 2023 Wall of Recognition inducts distinguished graduates to acknowledge their outstanding achievements and contributions. This year’s selection included Diacon and only two others.
Diacon was originally selected for the prestigious honor in 2020, however, the ceremony was delayed due to the pandemic.
During his visit, Diacon met with two seniors who serve on the Wall of Recognition committee, and he also witnessed the final parade down the hallways for the graduating class.
Diacon and this year's other inductees also shared memories from their Wellington days and how they contributed to their successful careers during an interview for the school's podcast.
The highlight of the day was the induction ceremony itself, which is intended to honor successful alumni and contributors of WHS. To be considered for the Wall of Recognition, the candidate must be a WHS graduate or an employee who retired from WHS at least 10 years prior to their nomination.
Nominees are evaluated based on their exceptional accomplishments in various domains and career fields. Importantly, nominees are not solely judged based on their achievements during their time at WHS but also on their post-graduation endeavors.
After speaking to the graduates, Diacon surprised the Class of '23 with special blue and gold Kent State bucket hats.
View the WHS Wall of Recognition Inductees.