University News
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.
ADVISORY: 5XÉçÇø Board of Trustees Meeting, May 20
The 5XÉçÇø 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.
Kent State Celebrates Nearly 5,000 New Graduates at Spring 2026 Commencement
5XÉçÇø 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.
Kent State Ends Pilot of Flock Safety Camera System
Following a trial period on the Kent Campus, 5XÉçÇø has ended the Flock Safety license plate recognition camera system.
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 5XÉçÇø's Distinguished Advising Award.
Kent State Celebrates Nearly 5,000 New Graduates at Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremonies
5XÉçÇø 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 5XÉçÇø, 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 5XÉçÇø.
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.
