I wish season’s greetings and all the best to you and yours!
As 2020 nears its close, there is no doubt that it has been a year like nothing we have ever known in our lifetimes. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted life as we know it. We have been challenged by a sudden shift to remote learning, budget reductions, separation from our family, friends, and students. The pandemic continues to test us, but as we are known for in EHHS- our people have risen to the occasion. In reflecting back upon this year, I am both proud and thankful for the people who make up the College of Education, Health and Human Services. I am thankful for all the sacrifices and efforts made on behalf of our students, the support shown for each other, and the willingness to answer the call for the needs of our students.
It is a significant point pride for EHHS that in the midst of a global pandemic our first-year student retention rate in Fall 2020 was 84.9% which constitutes a 4.5% improvement over the past three years. In addition, our retention of underrepresented students rose to 81.6% making EHHS the #1 ranked college at Kent State in overall retention of underrepresented students. This is a reflection of the great work of our faculty and staff, as well as the increased scholarship support from our wonderful donors. Speaking of scholarships, it was a record setting year for EHHS. We awarded 327 scholarships to 312 of our students totaling over $670,500 in scholarship support this year. This is possible because of every single one of our amazing donors and I thank you for your life changing impact!
These are just a few of the countless accomplishments in EHHS. You can read about several others in this newsletter and watch for stories about EHHS faculty, students and alumni throughout the year.
May your holidays and New Year be filled with joy, happiness, and good health. I look forward to all of us working together to make 2021 a remarkable year for EHHS!
Sincerely,
James C. Hannon, Ph.D.
Dean, College of Education, Health, and Human Services
Kent State University