CCI Student Organizations & Clubs

Kent Communication Society

The Kent Communication Society (KCS) is an academic and social student-run undergraduate organization open to all students. As a university-sanctioned organization, its main goal is to inform students about the field and curriculum of communication studies. KCS holds social, academic and career-related events that focus on communication activities and provides information about the University, graduation requirements and post-graduation options. Joining KCS helps build your resume, meet fellow communication majors and develop tools for finding internships and possible careers.

LEARN MORE ABOUT KCS

Lambda Pi Eta

The Upsilon Chapter of Lambda Pi Eta (LPH) is the honor society of the National Communication Association (NCA). Named for the classical Greek concepts of logos, pathos and ethos, the honor society recognizes, fosters and rewards outstanding scholastic achievement while stimulating interest in the communication discipline. Many of our best students participate in this student organization before graduating. Our officers and our advisor have been active participants in each National Meeting of LPH at the NCA conference.

To be eligible for admission, undergraduates must be enrolled as a student in good standing, as determined by Kent State's policies, and meet the following criteria:

•     Complete at least 60 semester credit-hours
•     Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 for all courses taken
•     Complete 12 semester credit-hours in communication studies
•     Have a minimum GPA of 3.25 for all communication studies courses

Learn more about The Kent State Chapter of Lambda Pi Eta by liking them on Facebook.

Communication Graduate Student Association

The Communication Graduate Student Association provides a professional and social network for graduate students in communication studies. Through this organization, graduate students are represented in university and school decision-making. CGSA also provides a forum for graduate students to discuss concerns and special interests. Graduate students meet during orientation week in the fall semester and elect representatives.

The Society of Global Cultures

The Society of Global Cultures is a student organization sponsored by the School of Communication Studies. The organization aims to foster mutual understanding, connection and interaction between people from many different cultural backgrounds from around the world. To do so, we create and sponsor cultural events in the hope to create awareness about the importance of diversity, the value of social movements and activism, and the significance of global understanding. Additionally, we want to be a support network for international students on campus and create a close connection between faculty members in the School of Communication Studies and our members. 

Follow the Society of Global Cultures on Facebook

Beta Phi Mu

Beta Phi Mu is the international library and information science honorary society. Master's graduates with cumulative GPAs of 3.75 or better, superior potential for leadership and who are in the top 15 percent of their graduating class, are eligible for membership.

Contact: MaryAnne Nichols, mnichol1@kent.edu

The Information Society

The Information Society is targeted to help all students and the IAKM program. Members of this organization discuss information technology, learn proper study methods and socialize with their fellow students.

Contact: Janna Korzenko, jkorzenk@kent.edu

Columbus/Associated Library Science Students of Ohio (C/ALSSO)

Columbus/Associated Library Science Students of Ohio (C/ALSSO) organizes a variety of activities, including programs of interest and sponsored social events throughout the year.

Contact: Miriam Matteson, mmattes1@kent.edu

Kent State University iSchool Graduate Student Council

The mission of the iSchool Graduate Student Advisory Council is to serve and advocate for graduate student needs. The Council functions as a bridge between students, administration and faculty, and works to enrich graduate student life through social events and professional development opportunities.

Contact: Dawn Sedor, dsedor@kent.edu

Society of American Archivists

The Kent State student chapter of the Society of American Archivists serves as a means of introducing students into the archival profession, as well as enhancing their archival education by providing an additional focus for students to discuss archival issues, identify with the profession, and engage in professional activities. The chapter also promotes communication among student members and development of leadership skills. Although membership in the national association is not required to join the student chapter, students are encouraged to join the Society of American Archivists as student member (currently $44 per year), which will allow them to vote in SAA elections, run for office, and take advantage of SAA’s benefit programs, which includes discounts on texts at the SAA bookstore and conference registration.

The American Library Association (Kent State) Student Chapter and the Associated Library Science Students of Ohio (ALSSO)

The ALA (American Library Association) Student Chapter at Kent State aims to connect and involve the iSchool's library and information science students with ALA and its affiliate organizations. The Student Chapter hosts events, meetings, and programs throughout the semester to provide networking, professional development, and community service opportunities to current iSchool graduate students both virtually and in-person. Membership in the student chapter is free, though professional membership in ALA is always encouraged.

Contact: Jacquie Kociubuk, President, jkociubu@kent.edu

The Special Library Association Student Group 

The Special Library Association Student Group serves as a tool for students to learn more about the career options available for special librarians and as a professional interface between the library school and special librarians in the surrounding communities.

Contact: Dr. Athena Salaba, asalaba@kent.edu
 

PUBLIC RELATIONS STUDENT SOCIETY OF AMERICA (PRSSA)

The Kent State Chapter of PRSSA, established in 1968, is one of 14 alpha chapters of the national PRSSA organization. PRSSA Kent has consistently won Teahan Awards, a national PRSSA award and Center for Student Involvement awards. PRSSA Kent also has received numerous awards for its service to students, the university and community from the annual Kent State Student Leadership and Honors Celebration.

PRSSA members have access to a wide range of benefits that will enhance their knowledge of the public relations profession. Students can attend local, regional and national events, network with professionals and peers, obtain access to internship and job openings and participate in a variety of workshops, committees and activities to build their resume and prepare them for their career.

LEARN MORE ABOUT PRSSA KENT

Franklin Advertising

Franklin Advertising is for any student interested in the business of persuasive communication and includes members that are working toward degrees in advertising, marketing, visual communications and design, electronic media, public relations and communications. Our diverse membership mirrors the industry in which students will be competing.

Membership in the club includes hands-on workshops, professional speakers and tours and other advertising-related events that further students' professional growth and experiences and enable them to begin networking with a variety of industry professionals.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FRANKLIN ADVERTISING 

National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ)

The NABJ is made up of journalists, students and media-related professionals that provides quality programs and services to and advocates on behalf of black journalists worldwide. The NABJ was started in 1975, in Washington, D.C. by 44 men and women. Kent State's chapter was re-instated in 2017.

KAPPA TAU ALPHA (KTA)

Kappa Tau Alpha is a college honor society that recognizes academic excellence and promotes scholarship in journalism and mass communication. It is the seventh oldest national honor society, founded at the University of Missouri in 1910 at the world's first school of journalism.

Membership must be earned by excellence in academic work at one of the colleges and universities that have chapters. Kent State School of Media and Journalism is one of 95 chapters nationwide. Selection for membership is a mark of highest distinction and honor. Juniors and seniors must rank in the upper 10 percent of their class.

The emblem of Kappa Tau Alpha is the key, the oldest symbol of knowledge and communication. The Greek letters mean "The Truth Will Prevail." The letters also suggest three English words: knowledge, truth and accuracy. The Society's colors are light blue, significant of truth, and gold, emblematic of worth and high standards.

American Institute of Graphic Arts Student Chapter

The purpose of AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts) is to set the national agenda for the role of design in its economic, social, political and cultural contexts. Founded in 1914, AIGA is the oldest and largest membership association for professionals in the discipline, practice and culture of designing.  Visit https://www.facebook.com/AIGAKent .
Contact: Jillian Coorey, jcoorey@kent.edu
 

Kent State offers numerous clubs and organizations that fit just about any area of interest. Most organizations are open to students within CCI

Browse Kent State Student Organizations