Senior Director, Exploratory Program and Retention Initiatives
University College, Kent Campus
Students and those who have worked with Nicole Kotlan call her “committed,” “passionate” and “persistent.” Her focus on students is singular, always with the goal of helping them develop and succeed – especially first-generation students. She embraces the “Flashes Take Care of Flashes” philosophy and, through her work, takes it a step further – to “Flashes Help Make Sure Flashes Graduate.”
Kotlan does whatever it takes to keep in touch with students. She calls, texts and sends emails and helps them find support resources and jobs. She sticks with them when they stumble or struggle and helps them get back on track. She encourages students to be their best. Kotlan cares deeply and fiercely for Kent State students and takes special pride in seeing her exploratory students find their majors and move forward on their paths to graduation.
On the Retention Task Force her keen eye for data and the ability to ask questions has helped people look at data differently to better understand patterns and trends. She has pushed colleagues to creatively solve problems and develop a collaborative environment.
During the pandemic, Kotlan worked to help students succeed in an online environment while also pursuing a Ph.D. As her roles within the university have changed Kotlan has continued to exemplify a “whatever it takes” commitment in everything she does. She is one of the amazing people who make Kent State special.