Profiles
After decades as a pastor, David Zachrich had a sudden and dramatic reevaluation of his life. A life-threatening heart attack 15 years ago forced him to step back and reconsider his path. Zachrich’s cardiologist challenged him to find something to do that he enjoyed. Zachrich immediately thought of teaching, something he very much wanted to do as a second career, and now he's won an award for it.
Singing, dancing and yoga are not typical college classroom activities. At least not all in one class. But for Jenny Lampe, lecturer in Kent State University’s Early Childhood Education Program, it’s important for her students to experience the full preschool education with all of these activities, plus expected activities like reading children’s books.
Anthony Mirando, Ph.D., associate professor of construction management, is driven in the classroom because his teaching philosophy is based on respect. He stays on top of his industry, and his enthusiasm and support for students is noticed and appreciated. So much so, students nominated him for an award.
Jazz singer-songwriter Ava Preston is making waves in the music scene. Recently, she performed at the prestigious 2023 Monterey Jazz Festival in California, and was recognized as a 2023 YoungArts Finalist and Silver Award Winner for Jazz-Voice. She's also a Golden Flash.
“You've got to have a dream,” said Daniel James, who set out on a bike ride through Central America after his 2022 graduation from Kent State. “If any of you are considering going on a road trip, or backpacking trip, or visiting that country you always wanted to go to, do it.
The two Golden Flashes turned friendship into a business partnership with the recent launch of their beverage brand, Jungle Juice.
LaKaleb Bowen, Kent State University senior criminology and justice studies major admits that he’s become a little addicted to Kent State’s education-abroad programs.
Kent State alumnus Richard Batyko, M.A., ’12, has committed his life and career to making the world, specifically Greater Cleveland, a better place.
Kathryn Wilson, Ph.D., professor of economics at Kent State University, designs her courses with the intention of having students achieve. Her attention to detail, respect from her students and her passion for teaching have earned her the 2023 Distinguished Teaching Award.
Ava Moss believes in embracing what life has to offer one major event at a time. What began as tough days sleeping on a friend's couch has now led to a full-time job with Walt Disney Animation Studios.