Kent State Student Goes from Homeless to Helping Others

After nearly four decades at Kent State University, Denise A. Seachrist, Ph.D., is retiring from her role as dean and chief administrative officer of Kent State University at Stark and Kent State University at Salem. Her retirement on June 30, 2025, marks the conclusion of a career dedicated to education, community and the arts.

Reflecting on her time at Kent State, Seachrist said, “Kent State has been more than a workplace — it’s been home. The people here have shaped my career, my life and my sense of purpose. I will always carry that with me.”

Commencement ceremonies were held May 9 for the Kent State Columbiana County campuses for graduates earning associate and baccalaureate degrees, as well as certificates, for the 2024-2025 academic year

Commencement ceremonies were held May 9 for the Kent State Columbiana County campuses during which degrees were awarded to graduates from the East Liverpool and Salem campuses.

Presiding over the ceremonies were Denise A. Seachrist, Ph.D., dean of the Salem Campus, and Bradley Bielski, Ph.D., dean of the East Liverpool Campus.