Shining a Spotlight on Employee Excellence

Just as the university takes pride in its stellar faculty and students, it appreciates the contributions and accomplishments of its dynamic, diverse and multitalented staff members. Toward this end, the university community was invited to participate in an appreciation campaign that has many campus offices proudly displaying posters about Kent State excellence and many employees wearing "I ♥ KSU" buttons.

Efforts from building pride to improving health and wellness have led to national recognition of the university's work environment, including Kent State's selection by the Chronicle of Higher Education as one of academe's Best Places to Work. In addition, the Employers Research Council has recognized the university four times in its annual rankings of the 99 great workplaces for top talent in Northeast Ohio.

Kent State launched a new awards program to honor full-time employees who demonstrate exceptional performance in advancing the university's excellence agenda. The annual President's Excellence Award, which includes a monetary expression of gratitude, is given to three staff members who are nominated by their supervisors and/or colleagues, and personally selected by President Lefton.