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Dear Kent State Students, Faculty and Staff,

Spring temperatures have finally arrived. These past few days, we have enjoyed seeing students spending time outside, some with their blankets spread out on Manchester Field to lay on and read, study or rest, while others toss a ball or roller skate on Risman Plaza.

As the senior vice presidents responsible for student affairs, university facilities and public safety, we know spring also brings gatherings and demonstrations to our campus. With the warm weather and more people spending time outdoors, we can expect groups – both from 5XÉçÇø and from the external community – to gather on campus to convey their beliefs and promote their causes.

As a public university, we must, by law, allow individuals and groups to practice their freedom of speech. You can read the university’s policy regarding campus free speech that is posted on our website. We also have a Freedom of Expression website that provides additional information and resources.

In most cases, we will be aware of a group gathering on campus and will have taken steps to address logistical and safety issues. However, if you have a concern about a gathering, please contact the Division of Student Affairs at 330-672-4050. As always, if you have a public safety concern about a gathering on campus, please contact Kent State Police at 330-672-2212.

To help you finish the semester strong, we encourage you to take advantage of all student resources through the end of spring, including the Academic Success Center, the Mental Health Resources and Support website and the Office of the Students Ombuds.

Faculty and staff can find resources and services through IMPACT Solutions, our employee assistance program.

Our saying that Flashes Take Care of Flashes is reminiscent of a principle we learned at an early age called the Golden Rule: to treat others the way you want to be treated. Let’s do that, Golden Flashes.

Enjoy the final weeks of the semester. Thank you for all that you do to make Kent State such a great place to live, work and study. Go Flashes!

Sincerely,

Lamar R. Hylton, Ph.D.
Senior Vice President for Student Affairs

Mark M. Polatajko, Ph.D.
Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration