Employee Spotlights

Kent State University is proud to recognize the amazing things our faculty and staff members are achieving every day. This is our way to shine a spotlight on the accomplishments that make a difference, and to celebrate!

Submit a Spotlight

Achievements and Recognition

A public domain image from the original Winnie-the-Pooh books, featuring Pooh hanging from a floating balloon, surrounded by butterflies.

Mialie Szymanski presents at symposium in honor of 100-year anniversary of Winnie-the-Pooh

08 Oct, 2026

Mary Lynn Delfino (r) receives the 2026 Mentor of the Year award from Kristen Baird Adams, chairperson of the College Now Greater Cleveland board of directors.

Mary Lynn Delfino Named Mentor of the Year by College Now

17 Feb, 2026

The four members of the Callisto Quartet. Eric Tsai, violin; Gregory Lewis, violin; Eva Kennedy, viola; Hannah Moses, cello.

School of Music faculty member awarded prestigious residency

02 Sep, 2026

actors play roles on a stage decorated to look like a dive bar.

Theatre Professor Dives into Dobama Theatre Production

Professor Fabio Polanco is no stranger to Cleveland’s theatre scene. Now, he is taking on a role in “Daphne’s Dive” by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Quiara Alegría Hudes.

25 Sep, 2026

Taryn McMahon Named 2026 Jim Hopfensperger Fellow for Emerging Arts Administrators

Taryn McMahon, M.F.A., interim director of Kent State University’s School of Art, has been named a 2026 Jim Hopfensperger Fellow for Emerging Arts Administrators. The fellowship will support her leadership development through mentorship, professional exchange and participation in the National Council of Arts Administrators annual conference.

16 Sep, 2026