Lara Ward, '16, B.S.P.H.

Currently Resides In: Stow, OH

Volunteer Position(s) with KSUAA: I serve as a Young Alumni Council executive board member. 

Why is volunteering with KSUAA important to you? What motivates you to volunteer?
Attending KSU was great and I want others to have the same experience of connecting with fellow alumni after graduation. This is an awesome way to have a positive impact on society. 

Why did you choose to attend Kent State?
KSU has a great Public Health program. I was already working and realized I needed a degree if I wanted to go further in my career. I am always super proud to say I got my bachelor’s degree in Public Health with a concentration in Environmental and Occupational Health from KSU. 

What are your favorite memories at Kent State?
Going sledding on campus and painting the Rock! 

Why did you decide to volunteer after graduating? 
I felt that I had good information to share with others. 

What is your proudest accomplishment(s) as a volunteer?
I liked being a site leader at the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank for Kent State Alumni Day of Service last year. So much so, that I plan to serve as a site leader again. I also volunteer with the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank throughout the year and have greatly enjoyed those experiences.

What advice would you share with someone looking to volunteer with KSUAA?
Do it! You will meet great people across all different demographics that all have KSU as the connecting factor.