Kent State Tuscarawas to Celebrate 50th anniversary

A week-long celebration will be held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Kent State University at Tuscarawas on University Drive in New Philadelphia. Numerous special events are planned to celebrate this historic occasion during the week of Mon., Sept. 10, through Sun., Sept. 16, 2018.

Highlights from the past 50 years will be featured every evening throughout the week honoring the history of Kent State Tuscarawas, beginning with a special encore appearance from comic writer Dave Barry on Monday. Tuesday through Thursday of the week will feature reunions of Kent State Tuscarawas alumni, former athletic team members and campus retirees. Local favorites Bob and Melody Liberatore will perform a dramatic presentation on the Performing Arts Center stage Friday evening. On Saturday, a formal dinner by invitation will be held featuring special guest speakers. The week will culminate with a Community Open House scheduled for Sunday.

“The 50th anniversary of Kent State Tuscarawas on University Drive is a huge milestone for the campus and the community,” said Brad Bielski, Dean and Chief Administrative Officer of Kent State Tuscarawas. “Since the opening of Founders Hall in 1968 with about 200 students, the campus has grown over the years with an enrollment today of nearly 2,200 students and the addition of the Science and Advanced Technology Center, the Performing Arts Center and the Tolloty Center. The campus has been extraordinarily successful and is an asset to the community.”

Bielski added that the community’s input and support of Kent State Tuscarawas’ past and future endeavors are invaluable assets.

After 50 years, the campus is still growing and looking toward the future. Recently, the board of trustees approved an entrance-way project for the campus. The new entrance will be a boulevard-style roadway that connects E. High Ave. to the Science and Advanced Technology Center entrance. Work on the project has already begun and the new entrance way could be dedicated during the upcoming 50th anniversary celebration.

Additionally, Bielski hopes to see residential housing included in future campus plans.

“Currently, we have quite a few out-of-state students and students who have long daily drives to campus," said Bielski. "We hope to add residential housing in the next few years to accommodate the needs of our current and future students.”

With the celebration of the 50th anniversary comes reflection of both past accomplishments and future endeavors.

“As we join in celebrating the 50th anniversary of Kent State Tuscarawas, we reflect on the value of our campus alumni, friends and partners across the Tuscarawas Valley region and beyond,” said Chad Conrad, Kent State Tuscarawas Director of Advancement. “These partnerships enable us to offer programs and initiatives that will enhance our students’ access to education and expand their career opportunities. Together, we have ensured students will graduate as innovative thinkers and citizen-leaders who are equipped with advanced skills to succeed in the workforce.”

Please plan to join us for the Kent State Tuscarawas 50th Anniversary on University Drive Celebration this fall during the week of Sept. 10 – 16.

Celebration events are subject to change. For additional information, contact Chad Conrad at 330-308-7445 or cconra1@kent.edu.