Reunions

A reunion is a shared celebration that enriches your relationship with alumni. It provides opportunities for generations of golden flashes to learn about their fellow alumni, build a network, and pass on beloved memories. Through reunions, alumni have an opportunity to support the Kent State community, relive experiences, and create new ones. 

The Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement is available to provide guidance and resources for planning a reunion. 

Key Considerations
  • Form a Reunion Committee
    • Enlist volunteers, delegate tasks and establish regular meetings.
  • Set a Budget
    • Determine available funding and create a detailed budget; Consider cover the costs or charge a registration fee to attend.
  • Choose a Date and Location
    • Consider timing, choose a venue and plan for accessibility.  Will the timing of the reunion be  coordinated with Homecoming or another important event in your college?
  • Design Engaging Activities
    • Gather input from your committee. Plan to offer a variety of activities, including entertainment/speakers.
  • Promote the Event
    • DPAE can send personalized invitations via email to alumni.
  • Manage Logistics
    • DPAE will take registrations, manage communications and provide event materials. 
Step-By-Step Guide

While our division does not provide event planning services or funding, we are happy to answer questions and point you to resources that will make your event a success.

Here is a Reunion Planning Checklist:

  • Planning Timeline
    • Determine what group you want to get together.
    • Small Gatherings: Plan at least 2 months in advance.
    • Larger Events: Allocate 6–8 months for planning.
    • Early Communication: Inform guests and campus offices as early as possible.  
  • Planning Steps
    • Define Your Vision: Determine the type and size of the reunion, what group/year?
    • Form a Planning Committee: Gather a team to help with organization – be sure to include staff & volunteers
    • Set a Budget: Outline expenses and potential funding sources, will there be a fundraising component to the reunion? Reunions expenses can vary based on the events/activities you want to offer.
    • Choose a Date and Venue: Coordinate with campus services for on-site events.
    • Contact Alumni: Use the "Find a Flash" service to reach out to individual alumni or reach out to your DPAE project manager and we can help send an email out to a group of alumni.
    • Plan Activities: Organize tours, dinners, or other events.
    • Communicate Details: Work with your DPAE project manager to send invitations and updates to attendees.
    • Gather Feedback: After the event, collect feedback for future improvements. DPAE can send out a survey on your behalf.  
  • Venue Options
    • On-Campus: Contact University Events and Conference Services at uecs@kent.edu or 330-672-3202.
    • Off-Campus: Consider the Kent State University Hotel in downtown Kent. Call 330-346-0100 for reservations. KSU alumni discounts are available.
  • Campus Resources
  • Contact Information
FAQs

Who can I contact for planning advice? 
Contact your DPAE project manager for assistance. 

How do I contact our alumni if we do not have their contact information?
Are you looking for a certain group of alumni to contact about your reunion or gathering? We are happy to reach out to the alumni on your behalf if we have their contact information on file. Please fill out the Find a Flash form with as much information as you can! You can also contact your project manager for assistance. 

Where can we hold a reunion? 
For on-campus locations, contact University Events and Conference Services at uecs@kent.edu or at 330-672-3202 to find space on campus to reserve for your event. For additional locations in Kent, you can explore options downtown including local restaurants and the Kent State University Hotel, which is conveniently located within walking distance of campus. The hotel offers several meeting, event and dining amenities to accommodate group gatherings of any size. Call 330-346-0100 to discuss your needs today. 

Who can I contact about making a donation or organizing a class gift? 
If you would like to support Kent State University, please visit www.kent.edu/give to contribute to a college, program or scholarship that is meaningful to you. To plan a class gift or crowdfunding campaign, please reach out to your project manager or  annualgiving@kent.edu.  

How can I arrange a campus tour? 
If your alumni group is looking for a campus tour, one of our Student Ambassadors would be happy to give a tour. Please contact us at alumni@kent.edu to coordinate or reach out to your project manager.

Is there a list of local hotels and visitor information for my visit? 
The closest hotel to the Kent campus is the Kent State Hotel and Conference Center. The hotel offers alumni discounts as well. For additional information, the university's Visitor Information website is a great resource and should answer lodging and parking questions.  

Additionally, contact information for relevant university departments is listed below:

  • Alumni: 330-672-5368
  • Athletics Ticket Office:  330-672-2244
  • Campus Police:  330-672-3070
  • Parking Services:  330-672-4432
  • Performing Arts Box Office:  330-672-2787
  • Student Recreation and Wellness Center:  330-672-4732
  • University Bookstore:  330-672-2762
  • University Libraries:  330-672-3456 

 To reach additional departments or individuals on campus, consult the university website at www.kent.edu or contact Kent State information at 330-672-3000. 

Do we have to plan a reunion around Homecoming? 
No, you do not have to plan a reunion around Homecoming, but it might be an easier time to get alumni to return to campus, and there will be many other activities going on to participate in. 

Are there any other requirements or protocols required when hosting an event on campus? 
Yes, please review University Events and Conference Services’ event guidelines. 

Who To Contact

It is best to start by reaching out to your project manager, but you can always contact alumni@kent.edu or call 330-672-5368.