"We are all part of one community now. A big, wonderful Kent State community."
With a backdrop of strobe lights, rock music and excitement, Kent State President Todd Diacon kicked off the start of the 2022 Fall Semester by encouraging new students to lean on one another during the university's traditional convocation ceremony.
New students packed the Memorial Athletic and Convocation (MAC) Center for the event that included speakers and giveaways ahead of the first full day of classes on Aug. 25.
Diacon encouraged students to engage not just with each other but also with university leaders.
"When you see me out on campus, please say hello and I'll do the same," Diacon said.
The Class of 2026 also enjoyed an opportunity to take part in an annual tradition, forming a block K outside the MAC Center.
Additional festivisties were planned to help new students get excited about the beginning of their college journey. This includes Blastoff!, sponsored by Student Success Programs and the Center for Student Involvement, which invites students to meet student organizations, play games, enter to win some cool prizes and meet new friends.
