KSU alumnus Max Hoover brings unique flavor(s) to his hometown.
Max comes from a family of Golden Flashes. His parents, Erik and Stacey, ’93, both attended Kent State University. In 2015, his parents opened Cockeye BBQ, and they have since expanded the business to offer a sweet treat that would compliment their award-winning food - ice cream. Max is the owner and operator of Cockeye Creamery, a Warren, Ohio, staple offering unique ice cream flavors that showcase local and unexpected ingredients. Max uses his background as a KSU science major to experiment with innovative flavors for the creamery. While creating one-of-a-kind flavors is Max’s passion, he is grateful the business also allows him to make a difference in his family’s community. Get to know Max in his own words.
KSU: What is your idea of perfect happiness?
MH: UV sunglasses and a cold beer in hand, surrounded by the people I love.
KSU: What is your favorite trait in others?
MH: Cooperation and compassion. No one gets anywhere alone, and if they say they did, they're usually lying. Be nice to your neighbors, enemies, strangers - I am seeing less and less of this as I grow into an adult.
KSU: What trait about yourself do you like least?
MH: My reluctance to accept change.
KSU: Who has had the greatest influence on your life?
MH: My parents, Erik and Stacey, and my Boy Scout leaders. These people made me into the man I am today.
KSU: What is your favorite Kent State memory?
MH: Working in downtown Kent, participating in the greater Kent-area festivals and traditions, and interacting with KSU students and locals alike.
KSU: What is your favorite journey?
MH: My journey from boy to student to business owner has been awesome. Learning and growing seems to be at the front of my mind these days, and it has proven effective to lean into situations that make me feel uncomfortable thus far. My favorite literal journey was my high school trip to Europe - it’s something I’ll remember forever.
KSU: What is your guilty pleasure?
MH: This one should be easy: ice cream!
KSU: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
MH: Building this business is my greatest achievement... for now!
KSU: If you could come back as one person, who would it be?
MH: Bob Ross.
KSU: What part of your college experience most formed who you are today?
MH: Understanding how to balance personal and professional development while also maintaining a social life. Stacking priorities is a skill I'll always have from my time at Kent State.