Architecture student posed and smiling with classroom behind
Message from the President

Message from the President

 

Dear Golden Flash Alumni, Supporters and Friends,

When I began my presidency at Kent State University, I already knew this community was special - different from others - and with so much potential to be even more notable. Our increasing graduation rates, strength in athletics, growing caliber of research, the best places to work awards and the common description of “feeling like home” have all set the stage for our collective vision of Kent State’s future.

Never before in the history of our university have the needs of our students been greater and this makes the importance of philanthropic support more urgent than it has ever been. We have truly embodied the spirit of “Flashes Taking Care of Flashes” during the pandemic and deeply appreciate the support that donors have provided to enable our students to stay in school despite financial and health challenges.

But now, we are turning an eye to the future and it is my great pleasure to announce the public phase of Kent State University’s Forever Brighter comprehensive fundraising campaign. We have been successfully raising funds to lay the foundation for this -  our most ambitious campaign -  and I am delighted to announce that to date, we are more than 78 percent of the way to our overall goal of $350 million.

The three primary objectives of Forever Brighter are Prioritizing Student Success, Expanding University Initiatives and Building the Future. Within each of these priorities are a number of important programs and projects that all focus on the goal of improving experiences for our students.

During the next few years, we will share stories about our students that demonstrate the power of philanthropy to change their lives. I hope you will be moved by their incredible passion, dedication and commitment to making a difference in our community.

There are many ways for you to be part of the Forever Brighter Campaign, and I look forward to you joining us in this transformative undertaking. At Kent State University, what sets us apart is how we come together. 

Todd Diacon, Ph.D.
President