University News
91ÊÓƵCelebrates Nearly 5,000 New Graduates at Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremonies
91ÊÓƵ 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.
91ÊÓƵMarks 56th Anniversary of May 4, 1970, With Commemoration on the Commons
Fifty-six years after the Ohio National Guard opened fire on student protesters at 91ÊÓƵ, killing four and wounding nine, the university community gathered once again on the May 4 site at the 91ÊÓƵCommons to bear witness, reflect and reaffirm its commitment to preserving the legacy of that day.
May 4 Shooting Victim Inspires Students With Disabilities to Embrace Their Own
Dean Kahler is often quoted as saying he only had one bad day at 91ÊÓƵ.
That day was May 4, 1970, when an Ohio National Guardsman’s bullet struck Kahler as he stood under a tree watching, from what he thought was a safe distance, a student protest against the escalation of the War in Vietnam. When the National Guard fired on the students, a bullet pierced Kahler’s spine, leaving him paralyzed and wheelchair bound for the rest of his life.
A Growing Legacy for Kent State’s 18th Year as a Tree Campus
91ÊÓƵmarked Arbor Day with tree plantings at multiple locations across campus, bringing together students, staff and local children for a day focused on sustainability.
91ÊÓƵMarks Earth Day with Campus Wide Celebration of Sustainability and Research
91ÊÓƵ celebrated Earth Day with a campus-wide series of events that blended hands-on education, student research and community partnerships. From the Earth Fest on Risman Plaza to the scientific posters at the Environmental Science and Design Research Institute Research Showcase and the Electric Vehicle Showcase, the day’s activities highlighted how sustainability is woven into academic life.
Protector of History: Alan Canfora Collection to be Dedicated at 91ÊÓƵ Libraries
The largest private collection of documents and materials relating to the May 4, 1970, shootings at 91ÊÓƵ, amassed by survivor Alan Canfora, will be formally dedicated by University Libraries’ Special Collections and Archives on May
From Hardship to the Gavel: Ivory Kendrick’s Journey as Kent State’s USG President
A public health senior who once faced homelessness after losing his father is now leaving a lasting mark on student government — and preparing to continue his impact in graduate school.
MEDIA ADVISORY: 91ÊÓƵRemembers May 4, 1970, With 56th Commemoration
91ÊÓƵ will hold its annual commemoration to honor the memory of May 4, 1970 – a tragic day when the Ohio National Guard opened fire on 91ÊÓƵstudents during an anti-war protest on campus, killing four students and wounding nine others. May 4, 1970, marked a pivotal moment in American history.
Faculty Members Recognized for Extraordinary Teaching and Commitment to Student Success
Professors do much more than educate and teach; they act as role models and mentors for younger generations. Their knowledge and impact can stay with a student far beyond the classroom. To recognize the amazing educators working at 91ÊÓƵ, the Glenn Frank Distinguished Teaching Award was established to honor their remarkable achievements.
91ÊÓƵHonors Elite Researchers for Career Achievement and Mentorship
The university honors exceptional faculty members for their career scholarship and dedicated student mentorship during the annual Outstanding Research and Scholarship and Excellence in Graduate/Undergraduate Research Mentoring awards.
