Commencement
‘You’ve Made This Day a Very Special Day’
Melody Tankersley, Kent State’s executive vice president and provost, drew on “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood” to share five leadership lessons with summer 2026 graduates at the August commencement.
Summer Commencement Welcomes 1,010 New Graduates
Kent State University’s alumni family grew by more than 1,000 new graduates from its eight-campus system as the university held its summer commencement ceremony on Aug. 8.
Kent State Honors New Graduates at Summer 2026 Commencement
Kent State University will welcome more than 1,000 new graduates to its alumni family during summer commencement on Aug. 8. The ceremony, held at 10 a.m. at the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center, will confer 1,010 degrees across associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and educational specialist levels.
'Skills, Grit, Fortitude and Experience'
When Kent State University President Todd Diacon took the stage at spring 2026 Commencement, he didn't open with statistics or institutional milestones. He opened with a potato peeler.
IN A FLASH: An End and a Beginning
Commencements as a foundational activity of a university are memorable days filled with emotions - some celebratory, some bittersweet.
Kent State Celebrates Nearly 5,000 New Graduates at Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremonies
Kent State University will honor nearly 5,000 graduates from its eight-campus system during its spring 2026 commencement ceremonies on May 7-9 and May 15. The ceremonies will be livestreamed on the commencement website.
Two Degrees Completed, on His Way to His Third
Graduate student Delonte Goodman finished his fall semester at Kent State by successfully defending his master's thesis and receiving his master's degree. When he returns to campus in the spring, he will work as a teaching assistant as he begins his doctoral program.
IN A FLASH: Scenes From Fall Commencement
Kent State University conferred degrees to more than 2,400 new graduates in Fall Commencement ceremonies on Dec. 13 at the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center.
Cheers to the Fall Class of 2025: Kent State Celebrates New Graduates
The accomplishments of the Fall Class of 2025 were recognized with commencement ceremonies on Dec. 13.
‘Think About the Plight of Others Even As You Encounter Your Own Difficulties’
Kent State University President Todd Diacon offered graduates an unconventional yet powerful message during the August 2025 commencement ceremony, weaving together personal experiences, a global perspective and practical wisdom in an address focused on resilience, empathy and maintaining a healthy perspective throughout life.
