WHAT:
Kent State University will celebrate its newest graduates at its One University Commencement at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 12, at Dix Stadium. The ceremony recognizes graduates from the university’s eight campuses. In total, Kent State will confer 5,345 degrees this spring. More than 3,000 graduating students have registered to attend the One University Commencement at the stadium.
The One University Commencement will feature Oscar-nominated actor Michael Keaton as the university’s commencement speaker. Mr. Keaton, who enrolled at Kent State in 1971, will receive an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters for his extraordinary contributions to film performance.
Earlier that morning, media will have the opportunity to cover Mr. Keaton’s return to his alma mater and meeting with Kent State students. Press availability with Mr. Keaton also will be available.
WHEN & WHERE:
Saturday, May 12
8 a.m.: Michael Keaton returns to his alma mater and meets with Kent State students on the Kent Campus. He also will be available to media before heading to the stadium for commencement. Media who are interested in covering this must RSVP for instructions and arrive to campus by 8 a.m.
10 a.m.: The One University Commencement with commencement speaker Michael Keaton begins at Dix Stadium, located at 2213 Summit Road in Kent. Please RSVP in advance for credentials and instructions.
MEDIA NOTE:
Members of the media who plan to attend Michael Keaton’s return to his alma mater and/or the One University Commencement must RSVP to the media contacts listed below to secure a media credential and to receive additional instructions. Please allow for plenty of time to travel to Dix Stadium as the university anticipates heavy traffic congestion around the stadium.
A complete HD video download of Michael Keaton’s speech will be available after the ceremony concludes. Request the link to download the speech by emailing the media contacts listed below.
Please RSVP by noon Thursday, May 10.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Emily Vincent, evincen2@kent.edu, 330-672-8595 (office), 216-832-4491 (mobile)
Kristin Anderson, kander63@kent.edu, 330-672-7907 (office), 610-675-6162 (mobile)