President Todd Diacon showcased the institution's far-reaching impact on Ohio and beyond during the annual Bowman Breakfast event held at the Kent Student Center Ballroom.
The breakfast, which celebrates the strong connections between the university and the city of Kent, provided a platform for Diacon to present the Works initiative, which launched in 2023 and highlights recent graduates and the university programs that prepared them to succeed in Ohio’s workforce.
Watch Diacon’s Bowman Breakfast address:
Key highlights captured by Today include:
- Economic Impact: generates a total economic impact of $4.9 billion for the state of Ohio. For every dollar the state invests in , there is a return of $9.47.
- Record Enrollment: The university welcomed 4,252 freshmen to the Kent Campus this fall, marking the eighth-largest freshman class in 's history. Of these, 34% are first-generation college students.
- Graduate Success: graduates over 10,000 students annually, with 63% choosing to stay and work in Ohio after graduation.
- Research Excellence: has achieved R1 status, placing it among only five universities in Ohio and 146 in the nation recognized for very high research activity.
- Community Contribution: Approximately 28% of the city of Kent's income tax revenue comes from employees.
- Global Reach: The university has expanded its international presence, with 180 international freshmen joining this year's class. 's global initiatives were highlighted through the work of Marcello Fantoni, Ph.D., vice president for global education, and his involvement with the Palace of Versailles.
- Program Recognition: 's Fashion Design and Merchandising program was recently ranked third in the nation by two different publications.
- Affordability: was named the most affordable college in Ohio by Money.com, with 36% of Kent Campus students graduating with no debt.
Diacon emphasized the university’s role in driving economic development and providing opportunities for students across various fields, from aviation and nursing to fashion design and podiatric medicine. He shared success stories of recent graduates making significant contributions in their respective industries.
“ works because Kent works,” Diacon stated, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the university and the city. He encouraged attendees to share success stories and directed them to www.kent.edu/works for more information.
The Works initiative focuses on graduates working in Ohio. As one of the leading higher education institutions in the nation, develops graduates who are making an impact wherever they go – from their own street to Main Street, and throughout the state.
the Bowman Breakfast
For more than 60 years, the Bowman Breakfast has served as a platform to spotlight the partnership between and the people and communities it serves. The university works to build meaningful relationships and create a thriving, collective community for students, faculty staff and the citizens of Kent, Portage County, Ohio and beyond. The breakfast serves as a testament to the strong partnership between and the local community, showcasing how their collaboration contributes to the region’s growth and prosperity.