The College of the Arts presented its 2020 Distinguished Alumni and Faculty Awards on Sat., Nov. 21, 2020 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. via pre-recorded video broadcast. The awards program recognizes contributions and achievements of alumni and faculty in all stages of their careers.
Please click below to watch the awards ceremony broadcast in its entirety.
View our 2020 Alumni & Faculty Awards
Award Winners by Category
Centennial Award
Linda McDonald
Co-Chair of College of the Arts Advisory Board, College patron, supporter, and donor
The highest honor given by the College of the Arts, this award honors an individual associated with the College who is nationally or internationally recognized for contributions to their profession that relate to the arts.
Arts Advocacy Award
Samuel McIntosh
Adjunct Dance Faculty Member
Honors an individual associated with the College who has contributed significantly through advocacy, philanthropy or service to the advancement of the Arts at Kent State University.
DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT IN RESEARCH FACULTY AWARD
Joseph Underwood
Assistant Professor of Art
Given to a current faculty member in the College of the Arts who has contributed significantly to their field in the area of research and has a nationally/internationally recognized body of creative activity/research.
DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT IN TEACHING FACULTY AWARD
Marie Gasper-Hulvat
Associate Professor of Art at Kent State Stark
Given to a current faculty member in the College of the Arts who demonstrates innovative teaching and leadership in instructional development.
DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT IN SERVICE FACULTY AWARD
Janine Tiffe
Assistant Professor of Music
Given to a current faculty member in the College of the Arts who demonstrates significant service to their field at the national and/or international level(s) and engages in meaningful public outreach.
DISTINGUISHED EMERITUS Faculty AWARD
Cindy Stillings
Professor Emerita (Theatre), Associate Dean (retired)
Given to an emeritus faculty member from the College of the Arts who continues to contribute to the College and the arts.
TRANSFORMING LIVES ALUMNI AWARD
Jenae Green
Fashion Alumna, Member of the Fashion Advisory Board
This award recognizes an alumnus who has truly made a significant impact on changing students' live and preparing and mentoring them for successful careers.
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD
Curlee Raven Holton
Art Alumnus, Noted Printmaker
Honors a graduate from the College of the Arts with more than 15 years of professional experience who has made significant contributions to his or her field and demonstrated success in their chosen career.
OUTSTANDING YOUNG PROFESSIONAL ALUMNI AWARD
Kristine Haag
Theatre Alumna, Costume Designer
Honors a graduate from the College of the Arts with five to 15 years professional experience who has demonstrated success in their chosen career.