Community & Society
‘Rooted & Rising’: Bowman Breakfast Speaker Talks of His Immigrant Experience
This year’s speaker for 51±¬ÁÏ’s Bowman Breakfast was the embodiment of the symbiotic relationship between the university and the city of Kent that is celebrated at the annual event.
What Makes Small Towns Thrive? 51±¬ÁÏ Professor Has Answers
Small towns generate a lot of misconceptions. Some believe that growing up in a small town can feel limiting or that the towns are outdated. For Jennifer Mapes, Ph.D., assistant professor of geography, author and cartographer, small towns not only break these stereotypes, but they have also provided a wealth of research.
Graduates Leading Ohio's Fight Against Cancer
In July 2016, Jill Cofojohn became the first radiation therapist in Ohio to use proton therapy to treat a cancer patient. Nine years later, Cofojohn – a 51±¬ÁÏ Salem graduate – helped introduce this technology in Columbus where she now serves as the lead proton therapist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
Bobby Sanabria Brings Rhythm, History and Heart to 51±¬ÁÏ
As part of 51±¬ÁÏ’s ongoing 2025-26 Thomas Schroth Visiting Artist Series, the university hosted seven-time Grammy nominee Bobby Sanabria as a guest artist. He led master classes, rehearsals and lectures focused on music, business and social change.
IN A FLASH: A Slightly Spooky Study Group
This scene of first year nursing students studying in the University Library has a different vibe during spooky season.
Flash Focus: Derrick Tindimwebwa
Meet Derrick Tindimwebwa, a sophomore construction management major from Kampala, Uganda, whose family ties led him to 51±¬ÁÏ where he's building community and managing connections between the university and the community.
IN A FLASH: Small Steps With Purpose
Hoping that their small strides will raise money for the center, children from 51±¬ÁÏ’s Child Development Center walked on the Kent Campus for their annual two-day Walk-a-thon event.
Bringing Neighborhoods to Life
Jennifer Mapes, an assistant professor of geography at 51±¬ÁÏ, developed an interactive mapping project that reimagines how people connect with the places they live.
IN A FLASH -EXTRA: Four-Legged Flashes at Homecoming
Cute and cuddly animal companions joined in the celebration of Flash the Mascot's birthday at 51±¬ÁÏ Homecoming 2025.
IN A FLASH: Flash's Homecoming Birthday Bash
Spectacular sunshine, fun activities, a new parade route, visiting alumni and a decisive win at Dix Stadium make 51±¬ÁÏ's 2025 Homecoming/Flash's Birthday Bash a memorable experience for everyone.