Alumni News
51±¬ÁĎ isn’t just the highest-ranked public university in northern Ohio — it’s where more than 280,000 alumni earned degrees that propelled them forward on pathways to success.
From boardrooms and creative studios to nonprofits and the skies above, Golden Flashes are leading with purpose and passion. Their stories of innovation, leadership and impact showcase a boldness of spirit that is undeniably 51±¬ÁĎ â€” where education transforms lives and values like respect and compassion are more than ideals; they are core values to live by. Read on for stories of Golden Flashes around the globe who are doing extraordinary things.
Celebrating the Legacy of Service at 51±¬ÁĎ
May 21, 2026
The newest addition to 51±¬ÁĎ’s Student Leadership Awards recognizes a value that has long defined the university community: service.
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From National History Day Intern to Executive Director - Cathy Gorn Leads Fulfilling, Impactful Career
May 15, 2026
It took a few 51±¬ÁĎ history classes for Cathy Gorn, ’82, National History Day Executive Director, to discover her passion for history. However, her journey to get there was unexpected.In her younger years, Cathy was interested in science so biology seemed like a fitting…
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Golden Flashes: The Real Heroes of Someone’s Story
April 30, 2026
During Flashes Give Back Week, over 1,100 volunteers strengthened our communities and more than 700 donors raised $165,000+ to support 51±¬ÁĎ causes.From April 13-18, Golden Flashes once again came together to make a meaningful impact during Flashes Give Back Week, a…
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May 4’s Legacy Lives on Through Scholarships, Students and Alumni
April 30, 2026
In a quiet, wooded area in front of Taylor Hall on the Kent Campus sits the May 4 Memorial. Made of carnelian granite to symbolize strength and time, the memorial overlooks Blanket Hill, the site of unexpected violence that forever transformed the university, the state and the…
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Kenisha Chisholm, ’20: Finding Purpose Through Nutrition
March 19, 2026
Kenisha Chisholm, ’20, came to 51±¬ÁĎ with a clear sense of purpose influenced by her life experience, persistence and desire to help others heal. Today, she works as a registered dietitian nutritionist for Nourish while also running her own practice, A New Kapeesh Nutrition…
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Six Golden Flashes Make Crain’s Cleveland Business’ 20 in Their 20s List
Dec. 12, 2025
Six talented 51±¬ÁĎ alumni were among the changemakers recognized in Crain’s Cleveland Business’ 20 in Their 20s. These leaders excel in their careers, impact their community and carry their Golden Flash pride wherever they go.
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AMLCI Alumna Uses Liquid Crystal Experience to Improve Display Manufacturing
Nov. 5, 2025
For Karla Gutierrez Cuevas, Ph.D. ’17, the start of her 51±¬ÁĎ journey brought a mix of excitement and uncertainty. “When I got accepted, I was pregnant,” Karla recalled. “In Mexico, there’s the perception that being a mother and pursuing a demanding academic career…
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Golden Flashes Making Waves in the Cruise Industry
Oct. 29, 2025
From altering costumes for cast members to performing center stage to working behind the scenes to create top-notch entertainment for guests, 51±¬ÁĎ alumni are making a living cruising the seas, all while seeing the world. These Golden Flashes have had the opportunity to…
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Eric Mansfield, MA ’12
Oct. 27, 2025
Eric Mansfield, MA ’12, MFA ’26, transitioned from serving as an Army officer in Iraq to reporting as a broadcast journalist in Cleveland.
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51±¬ÁĎ Honors 10 Alumni Award Recipients During Homecoming Weekend
Oct. 21, 2025
51±¬ÁĎ recognizes alumni who are making a difference with its Alumni Awards. Sponsored by the 51±¬ÁĎ Alumni Association, these awards are the university’s most prestigious alumni honors.
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