alumni-news

New Kent State graduates smile for a group photo before their commencement ceremony.

The Kent State University alumni family grew by more than 2,500 new graduates as the university held its fall Commencement ceremonies. The accomplishments of the Fall Class of 2022 were recognized with in-person ceremonies for all colleges and degrees on Dec. 17.

2022 Giving Tuesday results graphic

This November, members of the Kent State University community joined together to shine their light on philanthropy. During the November campaign, Kent State’s Giving Tuesday raised $3.6 million, marking the sixth year it has brought in more than $1 million to support scholarships and programs across Kent State’s eight-campus system.

Stephanie Johnson Gestures at Airport Advertisement Featuring Her Daughter Alex Johnson (left) and  Laura Wilson

Delta Captain Stephanie Johnson is all smiles seeing her daughter, Alex Johnson, and Laura Wilson featured in a Kent State advertisement at Cleveland Hopkins Airport. 

First-generation alumni are part of this week's "I Am First' celebration.

Kent State University is celebrating its first-generation students this week with a series of events and programs to spotlight and encourage current students who will be the first in their families to earn a bachelor’s degree. 

Kent State Vice President Valoree Vargo, presents alumnus Earl Miller with the Founders Award, In appreciation for his $2 million commitment to Kent State, with Michael Lehman, director of Kent State's Brain Health Research Institute.

Kent State University alumnus Earl Miller, Ph.D., a leading cognitive neuroscientist, and his wife Marlene Wicherski were recognized at the university’s 10th Annual Neuroscience Symposium, for their $2 million commitment to support research programs and students in Kent State’s Brain Health Research Institute. 

Morgan Dawson launched Dawson Workwear construction pants in July 2022.

Alumna Morgan Dawson created Dawson Workwear, a line of pants specifically for women in construction, to provide comfort and an appropriate fit for the female body.

Kent State University's 2022 Alumni Award Recipients

Sponsored by the Kent State University Alumni Association, the Alumni Awards are the university’s highest alumni honors. Recipients are selected based on their exceptional professional and civic contributions and for their outstanding support of the university. The 2022 Alumni Award recipients include six alumni and one student.

Kent State University students celebrate their graduation at May 2022 Commencement as blue and gold confetti falls on them.

Kent State University launched the public phase of its $350 million Forever Brighter comprehensive fundraising campaign in October 2021, and during the first year of the public campaign, a record-breaking $77.6 million was raised. This philanthropic feat was made possible with the support of 10,687 donors, 3,753 of whom made a gift to Kent State for the first time.