Repository:

Kent State University Libraries. Special Collections and Archives.

Title:

Kent State University Presidents' "State of the University Address" collection

Inclusive Date(s):

1963-2011

Author:

Finding aid prepared by Adam Wanter

Creation:

Finding aid encoded by Adam Wanter using the OhioLINK EAD Application in 2013

Description Rules:

Finding aid prepared using DACS

Origination:

Kent State University. Office of the President

Extent:

1 cubic feet (2 boxes = 2 half size record storage boxes)

Physical Location:

11th floor

Finding Aid Identifier:

OhKeUSC0155

Abstract:

This collection contains printed copies of the annual addresses regarding the state and direction of the university given by the president of Kent State University.

Language(s):

The records are in English.

History of the State of the University Address

The tradition of the annual "State of the University" Address dates back to at least 1963. The address is used as a forum for the president of Kent State University to outline the academic and financial state of the university. The address has also been used as a platform to express the presidents' vision of the future of the university and as a way to introduce new university wide objectives and goals. The audience for these addresses was initially limited to the Faculty Senate but was eventually opened up to the student body and the public. The traditional model for delivering the speech was abandoned in the 2012-2013 academic year, when President Lefton instead gave several smaller speeches to area alumni groups.

Scope and Content

This collection consists of "State of the University" Addresses, from the years 1963 to 2011. Some gaps appear in the collection, indicating either a lack of an address that year, or if an address was given, a lack of a physical copy being archived. The collection also contains some promotional items for addresses, which consist of fliers and handouts.

Statement of Arrangement

This collection is arranged chronologically by the date on which the speech was given.

Preferred Citation

Kent State University Presidents' "State of the University Address" collection. Kent State University Libraries. Special Collections and Archives.

Subject Headings

The following subjects are found in this collection:

Subjects:

• Kent State University -- Archives
• Kent State University. Office of the President -- Archives
• Kent State University -- Administration -- History
• Kent State University -- Planning
• Kent (Ohio) -- History

Persons:

• White, Robert I., 1908-
• Olds, Glenn A. (Glenn Alvero), 1921-2006
• Golding, Brage
• Schwartz, Michael, 1937-2024
• Cartwright, Carol A., 1941-
• Lefton, Lester A., 1946-

Functions:

• Universities and colleges -- Administration

Occupations:

• College presidents
• College administrators

Material Types:

• Fliers (printed matter)
• Typescripts
• Pamphlets
• Photocopies

Detailed Description of the Collection