Profiles
Flash Focus: Monica Fencil
Meet Monica Fencil, a junior exercise science major with a concentration in pre-physical therapy, from Butler, Pennsylvania. Fencil’s interest in the health field began early, shaped by being surrounded by family members who worked in healthcare.
Family Ties at Kent State Police Services and Beyond
Meet the Sprague family and their unique tie to Kent State University. After retiring as an Ohio State Trooper, Rick Sprague accepted a position with the Kent State police services last year. His son, Officer Tristan Sprague, also joined the police department last year. In the fall, Rick Sprague’s two daughters enrolled at Kent State, making the family’s service to the campus community all the more meaningful.
Golden Flash, Cleveland Browns Fan of the Year is Super Bowl Bound
Every Sunday that the Browns play away, Kent State alumnus Kyle Kovach, cooks a dish based on the city the Browns are facing, reflecting his motto: “In order to beat the team, you have to eat the team.” Meet the 2025 Cleveland Browns Fan of the Year.
Flash Focus: Jordan Anamasi
Meet Jordan Anamasi, a senior environmental studies major with a minor in park management from Avon, Ohio, whose passions have grown for and through her experiences with nature.
POV: 'We Will Support Them Every Step of the Way'
POV shares insights from the Kent State University community on important topics. Liz Piatt, interim dean of University College, shares her journey as a first-generation college student and how faculty mentorship helped her discover a career path she didn't know existed — one that now allows her to support other first-generation students as they navigate their own transformative college experiences.
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.
Unsung Heroes Abound at Kent State University
Perhaps the best word to sum up Brianna Benson’s role at Kent State University is “caretaker.”
Flash Focus: Kadin McElwain
Meet Kadin McElwain, a senior communication studies major from Painesville, Ohio, who uses his positions at Autism Speaks and Autism Digest to educate individuals on neurodivergence.
Nursing Professor’s ‘You Can Do This’ Philosophy Creates Passionate Caregivers
Tracy M. Dodson, Ph.D., MSN, RN, CEN, associate professor at the College of Nursing, is committed to helping students succeed through compassion and innovative teaching techniques. These techniques, accompanied by a passion for education, have been recognized with the Glenn Frank Distinguished Teaching Award.
Student Transformations Inspire Professor to Award
Tina Patel, associate professor of interior design, thinks students should have confidence, creativity and commitment in their design work. Her philosophy in the classroom has led her to be awarded the Glenn Frank Distinguished Teaching Award.