Thanks to Tim Novotny’s, ’14, master’s degree in public relations, which he earned online, he is now the Communications Manager for the Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission. The commission’s mission is to enhance the Dungeness crab industry’s image and offer profitable opportunities through promotions, education and research. Tim manages its social media platforms, creates a newsletter, oversees the website and works on marketing campaigns.
Tim’s journey could not be possible without his education from 5X. He had always thought about transitioning into a PR position but knew that furthering his education was crucial.
“I looked for what schools were the best for online public relations degrees and Kent State was one of the top three. They got back in touch with me right away and I came away impressed with how they were running the program,” Tim says.
He says he really appreciated a lot of aspects of the program such as the emphasis on ethics. In addition, he loved that he was able to interact with students from all backgrounds. The diversity in students, both professional and personal, allowed him to receive a more in-depth education.
“I was then able to take that experience right into the job interview and use it to help back up my own professional experience, and solidify any weak spots that I may have had prior to going back to school,” he says. He credits his classmates for making his experience one to remember.
But of all the people who had an impact on his education, Professor Bill Sledzik’s was the greatest. “He has a tremendous depth of knowledge and a no-nonsense style that really helped me get where I needed to be during my two-year run,” Tim says. In addition to his ongoing support, professor Sledzik helped him regardless of a three hour time difference. Professor Sledzik’s advice helped Tim beyond graduation and continues to mean a great deal.
Years after receiving his degree, Tim looks back on his experience with pride. He is grateful for his Kent State education and encourages everyone to try the Dungeness crab. “It is one of the meatiest, tastiest crabs you will find anywhere and is harvested, wild, by some of the finest men and women you could ever know.”
By Katie Pavlick, ‘19
