Overall Rating Bronze
Overall Score 36.37
Liaison Melanie Knowles
Submission Date March 5, 2021

STARS v2.2

Kent State University
AC-8: Campus as a Living Laboratory

Status Score Responsible Party
Complete 4.00 / 4.00 Leah Graham
Outreach/Recycling Coordinator
Office of Sustainability
"---" indicates that no data was submitted for this field

Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Campus Engagement?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Campus Engagement:

KENT STATE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT GOVERNMENT: SENATOR FOR SUSTAINABILITY; DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS; DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS
http://www.kentstateusg.com/
Since 1924, the Undergraduate Student Government has served as the representative organization of the undergraduate students of Kent State University in Kent, Ohio. In addition to advocating for the student body, USG provides vital services to the university community, as written in our services tab! Twenty-five officials, each elected in the spring semester to serve a one-year term, consist of the make-up of USG. Overseen by the Student Body President, eight directors cover specific areas of student life, and sixteen senators represent the degree granting colleges, commuter and off-campus students, residence hall students, university college, and other important university demographics of students.

KENT INTERHALL COUNCIL: ECOREPS
https://www.kent.edu/kic
Kent Interhall Council (KIC) is the student government of the residence halls on Kent State University's Kent Campus. KIC was founded on September 1, 1969. Our mission is to promote a positive living and learning atmosphere, as well as student leadership opportunities, within the halls. KIC provides student advocacy, funding and programming within the Department of Residence Services at Kent State University. The concept of EcoReps is to facilitate communication and action regarding sustainability between students living on campus and the Office of Sustainability. EcoReps can relay information about upcoming events and programs to their Hall Councils, and also relay suggestions, ideas and concerns raised by students to the Office of Sustainability. This new avenue for engagement will benefit campus sustainability efforts to create a healthy environment, on campus and beyond.

RESIDENCE HALL LIVING LEARNING PROGRAM: GREEN ZONE: A SUSTAINABILITY COMMUNITY
https://www.kent.edu/housing/living-learning-programs
https://www.kent.edu/housing/green-zone-sustainability-community
Living-Learning Programs at Kent State University are on-campus housing-based communities of students living in the same building who share similar academic or special interests. Students, faculty and staff choose to participate in these groups with the intended purpose of enhancing and enriching in-class instruction with focused out-of-class learning experiences.
To make progress on sustainability and climate change, both personal commitment and systemic change are needed. Members of Green Zone: a Sustainability Community will learn and practice how to be more sustainable while forming strong interpersonal relationships with students across many majors. Communication and learning among a variety of disciplines will foster creativity and collaboration in seeking sustainable solutions. Monthly community experiences include professional development, volunteer opportunities, and hands-on learning opportunities connecting students to on- and off-campus sustainability resources. Students will explore sustainable living, seek tenable solutions advancing campus sustainability, and leave lasting positive impacts. The purpose is for students to explore sustainable living with others interested in sustainability, develop professionally connecting with on- and off-campus sustainability partners, and give back through volunteer opportunities. Custom monthly sustainability themes based on students interests and majors enhance social events. In this community, students will form tight-knit bonds, use their unique talents and interests to leave a lasting positive impact advancing sustainability solutions.

OFFICE OF SUSTAINABILITY STUDENT INTERNSHIPS
The Office of Sustainability works to increase sustainability in university operations as well as collaborating with faculty to incorporate sustainability across the curriculum.

SUSTAINABILITY RELATED-STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/student-groups
There are over 25 sustainability-related student organizations on campus students may be involved in.

MAY 4 VISITOR'S CENTER
https://www.kent.edu/may4
Violence and Memory
Researchers in Kent State’s Department of Geography actively research the critical social geographies of violence, memory, and their confluence. We are affiliated with research conferences such as Race, Ethnicity, Place and the International Society of Landscape, Place and Material Culture. Faculty also maintain a connection with the May 4 Visitors Center on campus, which commemorates the May 4, 1970, shootings of peacefully protesting students. These Kent State faculty have experience researching and questioning the origins of violence and how it is perpetuated, commemorated, and desisted.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND DESIGN RESEARCH INITIATIVE https://www.kent.edu/research/environmental-science-and-design-research-initiative
The Environmental Science and Design Research Initiative (ESDRI) is dedicated to research and investigations within natural and built systems. A main aim of the ESDRI is to consider the inextricable relationship between human and natural systems as we develop innovative knowledge, products and solutions that address local, regional, and global issues in this era of human influence. The initiative also provides opportunities that aid faculty to advance their research, establish interdisciplinary collaborations, and procure extramural funding. The ESDRI engages a broad range of scientists, designers and practitioners, spanning dozens of academic disciplines, fields, and programs. Colleges represented within the ESDRI include the College of Architecture & Environmental Design, the College of the Arts, the College of Arts & Sciences, and the College of Education, Health & Human Services. Through this initiative, designers and researchers seek to understand and leverage the interacting geological, biological, human, and social systems that impact and regulate the availability of clean water, clean air, and food; sustain diversity of life on Earth; and promote well-being.

GLOBAL UNDERSTANDING RESEARCH INITIATIVE
https://www.kent.edu/guri
The Global Understanding Research Initiative (GURI) focuses on the impact of globalization, the ubiquity of communication technologies connecting diverse populations, and the growing movement of people across national borders. The GURI stimulates interdisciplinary collaborations that transcend disciplinary and geographic boundaries, and focuses on solutions to problems of global concern. Those faculty working in this area represent several colleges, including the College of Aeronautics and Engineering, the College of Architecture & Environmental Design, the College of the Arts, the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Business Administration, the College of Communication & Information, the College of Education, Health & Human Services, the College of Nursing, the College of Podiatric Medicine, and the College of Public Health. Collaborative research teams investigate a range of topics, including intergroup relations; social, national, and cultural identities; intercultural communication and relations; conflict mitigation; global development and sustainability; the role of (and controls on) the media in a global information society; group marginalization; and issues related to refugee crises and mass movements of people.

WE THE PEOPLE
https://www.kent.edu/guri/WeThePeople
The exhibit “We the People” is a series of portraits of Northeast Ohio community members who also identify as refugees. The exhibit was first shown on the Kent campus in May of 2019 and officially opened on May 11, 2019 @ 3PM.
With images by photographer Erin Labelle, this project is organized by the GURI (Global Understanding Research Initiative) group at Kent State University to emphasize our common humanity. This public exhibition of large scale photographic portraits and info panels displayed on the Kent State University campus is partly inspired by Italian photographer Luigi Toscano’s “Lest We Forget” traveling exhibition of Holocaust survivor portraits, which started at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington D.C. in 2018. Photographer Luigi Toscano, who created the major Holocaust survivors exhibit at the National monument in D.C. and at Boston Commons, stopped at Kent State on April 6 on his way to California during a promotional tour associated with his new work "Lest We Forget". We are pleased to announce that Mr. Toscano has generously agreed to provide images from his work to be displayed as part of the upcoming "We the People" exhibit at Kent State. “We the People” includes 25 large scale portraits (84 by 60 inches) displayed along the Esplanade which links the Kent State campus to the city of Kent. This public exhibit makes visible the refugee neighbors who have settled in Northeast Ohio; its goal is to give a platform for their stories and journeys, and to invite many people—regardless of age, origin, language, or education—to learn about the experience of people who have come from other parts of the world to live in this community. This project includes people of different ages, ethnicities, and nationalities, who have settled in Ohio near you. Each portrait is accompanied by a panel that outlines each person’s journey and a message they want to share. Social media will help connect the audience with the project and distribute it to the larger community, as everyone is invited to take a photo in front of the portraits and upload it to Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter with the hashtags #KSUWeThePeople and #myOhiocommunity. As visitors connect with a portrait, story, or statement through their family history, aspirations, or shared interests, and upload their own photo with these hashtags, the GURI group will compile these responsive images on this website, offering another platform for sharing the faces, voices, and stories that make up our community.A special thanks goes to those portrayed. This exhibit would not have been possible without their generosity and their resilience. Their journeys are awe-inspiring.

COLLEGE OF PUBLIC HEALTH EXPANDS INTERPROFESSIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAM, ASSISTING LOCAL HEALTH CARE PARTNERS February 2021
The College of Public Health will take the lead creating an expanded Interprofessional Education Program (IPE) for students across the university. IPE brings together multidisciplinary teams of Kent State students and faculty to address local health care needs. The College of Nursing, College of Communication and Information, College of Architecture and Environmental Design and more will partner for the IPE program. This will expand interdisciplinary courses, service-learning opportunities and community-engaged projects for the next generation of health professionals. A number of Northeast Ohio health care systems will be partnering with Kent State, including Cleveland Clinic Akron General, University Hospitals Portage Medical Center, Summa Health, as well as Kent City and Portage County health departments, to deliver crucial public-health interventions needed to address the current COVID-19 crisis. https://www.kent.edu/publichealth/news/college-public-health-expands-interprofessional-education-program-assisting-local


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Public Engagement?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Public Engagement:

KENT STATE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT GOVERNMENT: SENATOR FOR SUSTAINABILITY; DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS; DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS
http://www.kentstateusg.com/
https://static1.squarespace.com/static/52790e5be4b061ca915dab8d/t/5e267ded5b006436b220309a/1579580910673/Job+Description+%E2%80%93+USG+Director+of+Community+Affairs+%281%29.pdf
Since 1924, the Undergraduate Student Government has served as the representative organization of the undergraduate students of Kent State University in Kent, Ohio. In addition to advocating for the student body, USG provides vital services to the university community, as written in our services tab! Twenty-five officials, each elected in the spring semester to serve a one-year term, consist of the make-up of USG. Overseen by the Student Body President, eight directors cover specific areas of student life, and sixteen senators represent the degree granting colleges, commuter and off-campus students, residence hall students, university college, and other important university demographics of students.

KENT STATE GOVERMNMENT AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS
https://www.kent.edu/gcr
The Office of Government and Community Relations cultivates effective and sustainable relationships with federal, state and local elected officials and staff, community and private sector stakeholders to advance the vision, mission and values of Kent State University and the communities we serve. To be the public sector hub and trusted advisor for Kent State University and our community partners. Director for Economic Development and Community Engagement in the Office of Government and Community Relations one of the key points of contact and acts as facilitator for strategic large-scale community engagement partnerships and economic development initiatives for the Kent Campus. Mr. Berry is a board member representing the university on the Kent Area Chamber of Commerce and the Portage Development Board that support local and county economic development initiatives.

WE THE PEOPLE
https://www.kent.edu/guri/WeThePeople
The exhibit “We the People” is a series of portraits of Northeast Ohio community members who also identify as refugees. The exhibit was first shown on the Kent campus in May of 2019 and officially opened on May 11, 2019 @ 3PM.
With images by photographer Erin Labelle, this project is organized by the GURI (Global Understanding Research Initiative) group at Kent State University to emphasize our common humanity. This public exhibition of large scale photographic portraits and info panels displayed on the Kent State University campus is partly inspired by Italian photographer Luigi Toscano’s “Lest We Forget” traveling exhibition of Holocaust survivor portraits, which started at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington D.C. in 2018. Photographer Luigi Toscano, who created the major Holocaust survivors exhibit at the National monument in D.C. and at Boston Commons, stopped at Kent State on April 6 on his way to California during a promotional tour associated with his new work "Lest We Forget". We are pleased to announce that Mr. Toscano has generously agreed to provide images from his work to be displayed as part of the upcoming "We the People" exhibit at Kent State. “We the People” includes 25 large scale portraits (84 by 60 inches) displayed along the Esplanade which links the Kent State campus to the city of Kent. This public exhibit makes visible the refugee neighbors who have settled in Northeast Ohio; its goal is to give a platform for their stories and journeys, and to invite many people—regardless of age, origin, language, or education—to learn about the experience of people who have come from other parts of the world to live in this community. This project includes people of different ages, ethnicities, and nationalities, who have settled in Ohio near you. Each portrait is accompanied by a panel that outlines each person’s journey and a message they want to share. Social media will help connect the audience with the project and distribute it to the larger community, as everyone is invited to take a photo in front of the portraits and upload it to Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter with the hashtags #KSUWeThePeople and #myOhiocommunity. As visitors connect with a portrait, story, or statement through their family history, aspirations, or shared interests, and upload their own photo with these hashtags, the GURI group will compile these responsive images on this website, offering another platform for sharing the faces, voices, and stories that make up our community. A special thanks goes to those portrayed. This exhibit would not have been possible without their generosity and their resilience. Their journeys are awe-inspiring.

PUBLIC ART IN KENT: A public tour to explore art in Kent, OH. Public Art in Kent was created by Josie Myers, Kent State Map It! and Main Street Kent.
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/6891c14411c54baf8f9a807c94d9f2de
Home to Kent State University and situated along the banks of the Cuyahoga River, Kent boasts a colorful, vibrant downtown where historic preservation blends with the downtown's entrepreneurial spirit. Millions of dollars have been spent over the last few years transforming the downtown into a mecca of specialty shops, dining, and entertainment! It's become a popular destination for all ages to enjoy kayaking down the Cuyahoga River, hike and bike trails, picnicking, music festivals, collegiate sports, art galleries and museums, and an abundant night life.Come discover uncommon, unmistakable Kent and experience the flavors, people, sights, sounds, and traditions found only here.

RAPID FOCUS GROUP STUDY PROVIDES INPUT FOR PREPAREDNESS PLANNING IN OHIO HEALTH DEPARTMENTS February 2020
https://www.kent.edu/publichealth/news/rapid-focus-group-study-provides-input-preparedness-planning-ohio-health-0
Each year, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awards more than $10 million to local health departments in Ohio for public health emergency preparedness and response. A team of faculty and students in the College of Public Health was recently called upon to help local public health preparedness leaders tasked with developing recommendations for CDC-funded preparedness activities in the years ahead. Dr. Sheryl Chatfield and doctoral students Kristen DeBois, Jared Durieux and Shelly Evans, working with state-local preparedness liaison Matthew Stefanak, who also serves as one of the college's public health ambassadors, hosted a series of remote focus group interviews with health commissioners and regional public health coordinators from across the state. Several themes emerged from the team's analysis of nearly four hours of interviews with more than 20 participants, including the need for more quality improvement efforts in public health emergency exercise planning, quicker reimbursement of health departments by the state and better tools for managing the timely delivery of complex requirements for reimbursement. The team's report and recommendations have been submitted to state health department officials responsible for developing Ohio's public health emergency preparedness plan for 2019-2024 and many of the team's recommendations were subsequently accepted by the director of ODH for implementation.

ASSOCIATION OF OHIO HEALTH COMMISSIONERS PARTNERS WITH CPH GRADUATE STUDENT FOR SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN February 2021
https://www.kent.edu/publichealth/news/association-ohio-health-commissioners-partners-cph-graduate-student-social-media
In Fall 2020 the Association of Ohio Health Commissioners (AOHC), which represents Ohio’s 113 county and city health commissioners, reached out to Kent State’s College of Public Health with a problem: How do local health departments build trust with their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic? Joud Roufael plans to use lessons learned from this project for his dissertation work, and anticipates a committee review possibly in the summer. Local health departments have served a more visible role during the pandemic, sometimes enforcing penalties on businesses who don’t comply with COVID-19 measures. Trust between citizens and health departments is vital for safety during a health emergency.
AOHC was quickly connected to Joud Roufael, a CPH graduate student pursuing a Doctorate in Public Health. Roufael knew a social media campaign would be best, given the circumstances.

PUBLIC HEALTH STUDENTS HAVE BOOTS ON THE GROUND IN COVID-19 FIGHT
July 2020
https://www.kent.edu/today/news/public-health-students-have-boots-ground-covid-19-fight
When the Ohio Department of Health sought help this summer for work on the COVID-19 pandemic response, more than 110 students from Kent State University’s College of Public Health raised their hands to volunteer. Five faculty members also volunteered to be part of the Public Health Assist Teams create by the state health department to aid local health departments and community agencies perform work that included contact tracing of the virus and public communications. State officials put together a team of 68 members, and selected seven Kent State students, both graduate and undergraduate, from among those who had volunteered. “Kent State students account for more than 10 percent of this volunteer workforce that has been deployed for COVID-19 contact tracing and assistance with risk communication,” said Matthew Stefanak, an instructor in public health who serves as the college’s liaison to the Ohio Department of Health.

KENT STATE PROFESSORS RESEARCH PROPER USE OF FACE MASKS TO BETTER PROTECT FROM COVID-19 February 2021
https://www.kent.edu/kent/news/success/kent-state-professors-research-proper-use-face-masks
Two Kent State University professors have conducted much-needed research on face coverings that use alternative textiles to protect the public from COVID-19 and how to keep those masks virus-free. Christopher J. Woolverton, Ph.D., professor of epidemiology in the College of Public Health, and Richard E. Ferdig, Ph.D., the Summit Professor of Learning Technologies and professor of educational technology, are working on research that tests the filtration efficiency of various types of personal protective equipment (PPE). The researchers have developed proven recommendations for drying face coverings, which are also known as face masks.
https://www.kent.edu/kent/news/success/kent-state-professors-research-proper-use-face-masks

Environmental Health and Safety Class Videos Spring 2016
Three videos on our website that were put together as a collaboration between the Office of Sustainability, a class in the College of Public Health, and the videographers in University Communications and Marketing. They are located here on our website: https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/wasterecycling The intention was to educate and specifically to dispel a lot of myths about what does or doesn’t happen with our recycling. Our partnership allowed the students to be involved by researching their topics and drafting scripts. The Office of Sustainability reviewed and corrected scripts. Then the filming and editing was done by UCM to ensure usable production quality. The videos have come in very handy, especially when we get questions about what happens with our waste.

ParkApps https://www.kent.edu/kent/news/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-partners-kent-state-university-and-cleveland-metroparks
http://parkapps.kent.edu/
ParkApps is a partnership partially funded by the National Science Foundation (#1422764) to build tools, applications and games for teaching and learning in natural settings like national, state, and local parks. The overarching goal is to enhance our understanding of creation through the use of innovative tools and technologies. We continue to build and test our applications; we have published or presented in the following venues:
Han, X. (2017). Location-based educational web system design and implementation. Unpublished master's thesis: Kent State University, Kent, Ohio.
Shu, C. (2017). Location-based educational mobile application design and implementation. Unpublished master's thesis: Kent State University, Kent, Ohio.

ESDRI Seed Grant awarded 2019: FoSTERing Restoration Success at Cuyahoga Valley National Park
https://www.kent.edu/esdri/fostering-restoration-success-cuyahoga-valley-national-park
Investigators: Dr. Anne Jefferson (College of Arts and Sciences), Dr. Christie Bahlai (College of Arts and Sciences), and Dr. Bridget Mulvey (College of Education, Health, and Human Services)
This multi-disciplinary project embeds citizen science and cyber-infrastructure into an environmental restoration project that advances ecological and geological science. The Forest Soils and Trees Ecosystem Restoration (FoSTER) project is a collaborative initiative by Kent State University faculty and Cuyahoga Valley National Park scientists. In 2015, the National Park invited us to establish multi-decadal experimental studies at disturbed sites within the park to answer questions such as “How do we regrow forests on compacted, clay-rich soils?” and “How do hydrology and ecosystems change over time depending on the types of trees planted?”In September 2017, the National Park began restoration at the first site, by deep-ripping to improve soil drainage, and by mobilizing hundreds of volunteers in tree planting efforts following the ripping. Since 2015, our team has worked to characterize existing soils, plants, and hydrologic conditions at the sites and establish nearby forested reference plots. We have done this without access to funding beyond a graduate teaching assistant’s time and a small grant that she was awarded.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Air & Climate?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Air & Climate:

CLIMATE CHANGE GROVE: Annual planting since 2018
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/trees-and-forests
The climate change grove offers opportunities for research. The tree grove, located behind the Student Recreation and Wellness Center on the Kent Campus, was created through a partnership between University Facilities Management and the Department of Biological Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences. The trees were planted by students, Kent State alumni and other volunteers during the university’s annual Alumni Day of Service in 2018.
https://www.kent.edu/einside/news/kent-state%E2%80%99s-new-climate-change-grove-supports-research-and-sustainability-efforts

KENT STATE CO-LEAD GREATER OHIO LIVING ARCHITECTURE CENTER (GOLA) 2018
https://www.kent.edu/kent/news/kent-state-co-lead-new-center-living-architecture
At the 16th Annual CitiesAlive Conference recently held in New York City, a consortium of Ohio universities was selected as one of the first four North American regional centers of living architecture by Green Roofs for Healthy Cities and the Green Infrastructure Foundation. Faculty from Kent State University will join colleagues from the University of Cincinnati and Heidelberg University to lead the Greater Ohio Living Architecture Center (GOLA), which will be dedicated to the study of integrating vegetation within and upon buildings as novel ecosystems. The center will engage vegetated roof and wall industries in research and training activities for the Great Lakes and Ohio region through meetings, academic symposia and professional training across the three university campuses over the next three years.

KENT STATE SUBSONIC WIND TUNNEL
https://www.kent.edu/cae/research
The College of Aeronautics and Engineering is proud of its research, labs, and facilities. Check back to learn more as we build our website to include more information on our Clean Energy and Sustainability Laboratory, wind tunnel, aircraft fleet, air traffic control labs, flight simulators, 3D printer, and foundry.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-z3Bk9pnfTU

TAYLOR HALL GREEN ROOF
https://www.kent.edu/kent/news/kent-state-installs-green-roof-taylor-hall
The rooftop garden installation is part of a $2.3 million Taylor Hall renovation project, which also included window replacements, concrete and masonry restoration and upper roof replacement. The green roof has a leak-detection system and encompasses roughly 6,200 square feet of the roof plaza area. The garden roof has a walkway that partially overlooks the May 4, 1970, Site and Memorial.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Buildings?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Buildings:

DO IT IN THE DARK ENERGY COMPETITION: Annual Residence Hall Competition
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/energy
Even with features like light sensors and smart power strips, our behavior greatly impacts the energy consumption of the spaces we occupy. Residence Services raises awareness and makes conservation fun by having residence halls compete each fall to save energy during “Do It In the Dark.” Ever wonder just how much electricity or gallons of water a residence hall consumes each week? Explore the information below and view Kent State's Utility Dashboard to find out how much of each resource is consumed per residence hall each week at Kent State University. View real-time utility usage dashboard for Residence Halls and Academic Buildings.

DESIGN INNOVATION HUB
https://www.kent.edu/designinnovation
Design Innovation (DI) at Kent State is a university-wide initiative with representation across the eight-campus system. DI at Kent State is a dynamic continuum of spaces, events and people dedicated to ideas, innovation and creation through interdisciplinary collaboration. It’s a meeting of bright minds and dynamic people seeking challenges and solving real world problems. DI at Kent State is also fun, engaging students, faculty and staff to team up, interact and brilliantly create in exciting, new ways. DI Hub brings together students, faculty, community and leading experts from diverse disciplines who are thoughtfully addressing technology and society through design to become creative, intersectional problem-solvers and fearless collaborators in the face of complex, messy problems. We do this by building and connecting a network of existing makerspaces and resource laboratories across the entire university, making them more visible, accessible and effective in supporting cross-disciplinary collaboration. We call these the “Design Innovation Nodes.” We link this network to the “Design Innovation Hub,” which sits at the center of the Kent Campus, and serves as an open-access, collaborative, co-working, co-making, idea-generating and innovation accelerating environment to be a place that inspires the kinetic collisions for collaborative doers, makers, fixers and experimenters. To support this, we offer coursework and curate co-curricular projects, competitions, hackathons and grand challenges as part of a ‘challenge-based-innovation’ strategy. This leads to students and graduates who become Design Innovation Fellows, people whose embedded instinct is to seek out temporary unities and create teams of individuals that come from the widest array of backgrounds, disciplines and perspectives to address, re-frame and tackle the truly big problems facing our world.

KENT STATE UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR ARCHITECTURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN LEED PLATINUM BUILDING TOURS: KENT GREEN ENERGY OHIO TOUR SITE: 2017, 2019
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/kent-green-energy-ohio-tour
See green technologies in our community including renewable energy, green building and clean transportation!
The Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour will take place Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, at multiple locations at Kent State University and in the city of Kent, Ohio. This FREE self-guided open house is the 3rd Annual Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour and is part of the 17th Annual Green Energy Ohio Tour that highlights sites that are using innovative technologies that benefit the environment. While the Kent State University Field House solar array has been a part of the Greater Akron Solar Tour in the past, this is the third year for multiple tour sites in Portage County. The Kent Clean Transportation Cruise-In showcases energy efficient, hybrid and electric vehicles, and is part of the Kent Creativity Festival. The Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour is a joint event coordinated by the Kent State University Office of Sustainability, the city of Kent's Sustainability Commission and Green Energy Ohio.
Kent State University Center for Architecture and Environmental Design 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. *Guided building tours start on the hour at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Visitors, alumni and friends from around the world will tour the 110,191-square-foot contemporary glass-and-brick building, stretching along the Lefton Esplanade from Lincoln Street toward downtown Kent. The center received a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum rating by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), which will make it one of the largest buildings in Ohio to reach this high standard. Some of the features include a partial green roof to capture and recycle rain water, 131 geothermal wells (each 405-feet deep) to provide an efficient heating and cooling source for the building and glass curtain walls designed to optimize daylight while reducing the need for artificial light. The exterior contains 91,000 custom bricks produced by Ohio’s Belden Brick Co. that brings together colors exemplifying the strong and continuously growing relationship between the university and downtown Kent. The center brings exceptional design to Kent State’s architecture, architectural studies and interior design programs, and unites students and faculty from the College of Architecture and Environmental Design under one roof to serve as an educational model for design excellence. The distinctive building was conceived in 2012, when the university initiated an international competition. After more than a year-long process, internationally renowned New York-based firm WEISS/MANFREDI was named as the lead designer, Richard L. Bowen & Associates as the architect of record and Gilbane Building Co. as the construction manager. The Center for Architecture and Environmental Design opened in fall 2016.

Greg Stoh's College of Architecture and Environmental Design students' construction of solar powered charging pavilion. Built by Professor Stroh's students in Build Workshop, Spring 2017, Spring 2019
http://www.kentwired.com/latest_updates/article_89108d12-6b70-11e9-807c-a7760f407112.html
"A new eco-friendly charging pavilion station will be placed by Campus Center Drive near the Schwartz center before May 10. This 10-foot tall structure will be the third charging station for phones and laptops on campus. Each USB port is powered by two solar panels on the roof of the structure. It will be next to a walking trail that goes around the ponds."


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Energy?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Energy:

ZEV ON DISPLAY: Annually at Earth Month events through 2019, Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour Clean Transportation Cruise-In 2019
College of Aeronautics & Engineering: Fuel Cell- Zero Emission Vehicle
https://www.kent.edu/cae/zero-emission-vehicle-zev
https://www.kent.edu/student_research/angela-deibel
The Zero Emission Vehicle, or ZEV, is the first golf cart to be powered by three sources: a fuel cell, a solar panel, and batteries. ZEV’s design includes additional features; we plan on impacting the student body in a loud way- with the help of an audio system that will allow us to stream portable music around campus.There are 3 power sources in this cart, each with a different source of energy:Fuel Cell: A fuel cell is a device which converts chemical energy into electrical energy. The fuel cell that will be used to power the cart is a 1 Kilowatt PEM hydrogen fuel cell. Clean water is the only byproduct for a hydrogen-feed fuel cell, and it will not emit any greenhouse gases. This fuel cell can also be operated in an electrolyze mode to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
Solar Power: To extend the time between hydrogen refuelings, a photovoltaic panel will be used to charge the batteries when the cart is resting, or in motion.
Battery: Batteries will be used to store renewable energy generated by the solar panel and fuel cell.

FIELDHOUSE SOLAR ARRAY: KENT GREEN ENERGY OHIO TOUR 2017, 2019
The photovoltaic solar array on the roof of the Field House and in operation since July 2012, is nearly ½ Megawatt in size, covers about 1 acre of roof area and generates about 500,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year. That is about one-third of the annual total power used by the Field House and Dix Stadium – enough to power about 50 61.7 average homes for a year. The solar PV array reduces our Carbon Dioxide Equivalent impact on the Earth by 390 tons each year.

KENT GREEN ENERGY OHIO TOUR 2017, 2019
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/kent-green-energy-ohio-tour
See green technologies in our community including renewable energy, green building and clean transportation!
The Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour will take place Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, at multiple locations at Kent State University and in the city of Kent, Ohio. This FREE self-guided open house is the 3rd Annual Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour and is part of the 17th Annual Green Energy Ohio Tour that highlights sites that are using innovative technologies that benefit the environment. While the Kent State University Field House solar array has been a part of the Greater Akron Solar Tour in the past, this is the third year for multiple tour sites in Portage County. The Kent Clean Transportation Cruise-In showcases energy efficient, hybrid and electric vehicles, and is part of the Kent Creativity Festival. The Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour is a joint event coordinated by the Kent State University Office of Sustainability, the city of Kent's Sustainability Commission and Green Energy Ohio.

KENT STATE UNIVERSITY FUEL CELL, CLEAN ENERGY, AND SUSTAINABILITY RESEARCH TEAM
https://www.kent.edu/fuelcell
https://www.kent.edu/cae/fuel-cells-clean-energy-and-sustainability-research-team-0
Global warming is a serious threat to human life on Earth. The Kent State Clean Energy and Sustainability Research Team works diligently to provide research, insights, and breakthroughs to the ever-evolving field of Fuel Cells, a practical technology for major reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Food & Dining?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Food & Dining:

KENT STATE CAMPUS KITCHEN
https://www.kent.edu/community/campus-kitchen
We are a volunteer-driven kitchen that runs on recovered food, shared kitchen space in Tri-Towers, and volunteers who want to make a difference! CKKSU was started by KSU students in 2011. By recovering food that otherwise would go to waste, the kitchen is able to prepare 250+ nutritious meals each week for those struggling with food insecurity to Family & Community Services agencies in Portage Country. We also host a twice-weekly food pantry on-campus serving hundreds of students, faculty, staff and community members a semester. We also collaborate with the Center for Nutrition Outreach at Kent to provide fresh food for the Mighty Pack program and have a weekly presence at the Haymaker Farmers’ Market. Finally, CKKSU delivers fresh food to the Office of the Deans of Students satellite pantry on Fridays.

FOOD PANTRYS https://www.kent.edu/community/campus-kitchen
OPEN TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE KENT STATE AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITY
1)Tri Towers Rotunda 1475 Leebrick Dr. You’ll find us at the door of the intersection of Leebrick Dr. and Senhauser Dr., behind the PARTA bus stop.
2)The Office of the Dean of Students Satellite Pantry, Student Center 219
3) Drive-Thru Food Distribution events- multiple year-round events

DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY: DR.JENNIFER MAPES Spring 2021
Working with senior capstone students & Akron Canton Regional Foodbank, The Portager, and Kent State Community Engaged Learning to study local food insecurity during COVID: identify gaps between need & assistance.

KENT STATE FOOD 4 THOUGHT CAFE
https://www.kent.edu/hr/wellness/food-4-thought-cafe-ehhs
Cafe employees are students of the Nutrition and Dietetics or Hospitality Management programs at KSU. All profits are allocated for student initiatives. Located in halls White and Bowman on the Kent State Main Campus, Food 4 Thought Cafe has based our operation on the premise that fresh foods can be flavorful and healthy, but also quick and inexpensive to produce. Many healthy (and delicious) options devoid of animal products are available to meet the needs of the vegetarian and vegan population. F4TCC is independent from Dining Services and unfortunately cannot accept student dining plans. Flashcash, cash and credit are accepted.

KENT STATE EHHS NUTRITION & DIETICS COOKING VIDEOS
By students
https://www.kent.edu/ehhs/nutr/cooking-videos
This page features detailed how-to videos with simple recipes, cooking skill demonstrations, and tips for healthy eating. You can find all of our videos at our YouTube channel, Basic Cooking 101!

KENT STATE DI HUB GRIND2ENERGY SYSTEM
https://www.kent.edu/dining/grind2energy-0
Kent State has partnered with InSinkErator® through the implementation of Grind2Energy®, an organics recovery process that converts food waste to renewable energy. This forward-thinking approach allows us to significantly decrease our impact on the environment while creating renewable energy for the communities we serve. According to Grind2Energy, food waste from the DI HUB is ground on-site using a customized, industrial-strength foodservice grinder. Food waste is converted into energy-rich slurry and transported to an anaerobic digestion facility where methane is extracted for energy production.

CAMPUS GARDENS
Kent State has two campus gardens. The Food Insecurity Garden is located behind Nixson Hall and maintained by the Nutrition and Dietetics faculty and students. Food from this garden is donated to Portage County children’s meals during times they are not receiving food provided through the National School Lunch Program, via Might Pack Program. https://www.kent.edu/kent/news/success/campus-garden-helps-provide-vegetables-local-students-need
Another garden is located behind DeWeese Health Center. The DeWeese Health Center’s Wellness Committee accomplished one of its wellness initiatives of creating a community garden focused on growing fresh produce, learning best-practice gardening techniques and managing stress through connection with nature. https://www.kent.edu/einside/news/kent-state%E2%80%99s-deweese-health-center-creates-community-garden-foster-wellness-campus
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/natural-areas


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Grounds?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Grounds:

CLIMATE CHANGE GROVE
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/trees-and-forests
The climate change grove offers opportunities for research. The tree grove, located behind the Student Recreation and Wellness Center on the Kent Campus, was created through a partnership between University Facilities Management and the Department of Biological Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences. The trees were planted by students, Kent State alumni and other volunteers during the university’s annual Alumni Day of Service in 2018.
https://www.kent.edu/einside/news/kent-state%E2%80%99s-new-climate-change-grove-supports-research-and-sustainability-efforts

KENT STATE MAP IT
https://www.library.kent.edu/map-library/map-it
Map It! is a community-minded collaboration between Kent State University Libraries and the Department of Geography at Kent State University. The aim of this service is to provide spatial data visualization, geographic information science (GIS) and cartographic services to the Kent State University community and Northeast Ohio community at large.

Sharing Stories of Tragedy: Mapping Narratives of the Kent State Shooting: 2020
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=RB1oZuoAAAAJ&hl=en#d=gs_md_cita-d&u=%2Fcitations%3Fview_op%3Dview_citation%26hl%3Den%26user%3DRB1oZuoAAAAJ%26citation_for_view%3DRB1oZuoAAAAJ%3AeflP2zaiRacC%26tzom%3D300
On May 4th, 1970, in Kent, Ohio, the Ohio National Guard shot student protesters at Kent State University, killing four and wounding nine. It was a turning point in the history of the Vietnam War and underscored the importance of freedom of speech and the right to protest. Even 50 years later, debates continue regarding exactly what happened and who was to blame, as a divide remains between those who feel the shooting was unwarranted and others who think the protesters brought the violence onto themselves. Particularly in northeast Ohio, encouraging engagement with varied viewpoints is essential to promoting reconciliation.
https://mappingmay4.kent.edu/about
This web app draws from the oral histories in the May 4 Collection, Kent State Special Collections & Archives . It maps stories from those histories that describe memories of events at a particular place in Kent between May 1st and May 5th, 1970. It is designed to serve as a digital memorial, to remember and honor these events. We have made it both for those who have stories to share, and those who are interested in hearing these stories. This web app does not aim to establish historical facts. Readers will notice that stories associated with some sites are quite contradictory. Instead this web app aims to open a space for dialogue in the hope of building understanding, connection across difference, and ultimately reconciliation. For those seeking a historical account we recommend starting with the short booklet This We Know. See our resources page for more, including lesson plans coming soon.

FRESHMAN DAY OF SERVICE: Stormwater Drain Marking Project August 21, 2019- 7 volunteers (31 volunteers)
https://kent.givepulse.com/shift/113499-Stormwater-Drain-Marking-Project
Educate the campus community about water quality! Students will apply “no dumping, drains to stream” stickers to stormwater drains on campus. Help protect water quality and raise awareness that dumping litter, debris, or hazardous waste contributes to pollution and endangers wildlife via the stormwater drain marking project. All supplies and training demo provided. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring water bottle if needed. Opportunities to learn about other sustainability features on campus.

FRESHMAN DAY OF SERVICE: Kent State University Greenhouse August 21, 2019- 22 volunteers
https://kent.givepulse.com/shift/113497-Kent-State-University-Greenhouse
Students will assist with gardening activities, pruning, and other greenhouse duties. This on-campus greenhouse supports teaching and research and provides a showplace of botanical diversity for the university community and beyond. Hosted by the Department of Biological Sciences Herrick Conservatory.

FRESHMAN DAY OF SERVICE: Children's Outdoor Learning Lab Spruce Up August 21, 2019- 16 volunteers
https://kent.givepulse.com/shift/116378-Childrens-Outdoor-Learning-Lab-Spruce-Up
Students will help prepare the Outdoor Learning Lab for the children attending the KSU Child Development Center. This will involve sweeping patios and sidewalks, painting fence and shed, moving small rocks, and other outside work. Please wear clothes that can get dirty!

ANNUAL EARTH MONTH BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES INVASIVE SPECIES PULLS & TREE PLANTING EVENTS

Natural Areas Interpretive Sign Project for: the butterfly garden, peatland wetland and permeable pavement created by KSU student in 2016.
https://www.kent.edu/einside/news/interpretive-sign-project-shows-environmental-value-campus

Campus Gardens
Kent State has two campus gardens. The Food Insecurity Garden is located behind Nixson Hall and maintained by the Nutrition and Dietetics faculty and students. Food from this garden is donated to Portage County children’s meals during times they are not receiving food provided through the National School Lunch Program, via Might Pack Program. https://www.kent.edu/kent/news/success/campus-garden-helps-provide-vegetables-local-students-need
Another garden is located behind DeWeese Health Center. The DeWeese Health Center’s Wellness Committee accomplished one of its wellness initiatives of creating a community garden focused on growing fresh produce, learning best-practice gardening techniques and managing stress through connection with nature. https://www.kent.edu/einside/news/kent-state%E2%80%99s-deweese-health-center-creates-community-garden-foster-wellness-campus
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/natural-areas

Jennings Woods
A 74 acre temperate forest research site with riparian, upland, and bottomland habitats is located in Ravenna, Ohio. https://www.kent.edu/cenrs/jennings-woods

KENT STATE SUMMIT STREET IMPROVEMENT WETLAND MONITORING
https://www.kent.edu/research/lauren-kinsman-costello-0
The Summit Street construction project may be an inconvenience to drivers, but it will soon give a facelift to one of Kent State’s main entrances and make it a safer road to travel. For some Kent State researchers, though, it’s an opportunity to make the campus more ecologically friendly and establish trends in biology, chemistry, geology and ecology. Biology professor Lauren Kinsman-Costello is leading a team of student researchers in the study of a wetland area along Summit Street near Campus Center Drive. Kinsman-Costello has been working on the project almost since she came to Kent State in 2014. She said the focus of wetlands used to be primarily their value in diverting water to prevent flooding. Now, however, researchers studying wetlands as a resource in urban areas are also coming to understand the impact they could have on cleaning the water and providing multiple ecosystem services. Kinsman-Costello’s part of the Summit street project focuses on making the area a better eco-system and and more efficient wetland. Her team is already studying the existing stormwater wetland to establish baseline water quality indicators, like concentrations of chloride from road salt, nitrogen and ammonium soluble reactive phosphate from fertilizers, and sediment. As construction proceeds, Campus Center Drive will be slightly re-routed and new wetland areas will be installed. The baseline readings her team records now will help to determine the efficacy of the new wetland. Beyond the practical aspects of the project, though, Kinsman-Costello said the educational value is even more important. “We’re creating this research and education resource for the university, that can become part of the curriculum for classes taught in these areas,” she said. The new wetland will also have ecological and aesthetic benefits.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Purchasing?:
No

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Purchasing:
---

Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Transportation?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Transportation:

FACULTY SENATE: TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
https://www.kent.edu/provost/faculty-senate/committees-boards-councils
This is a recommending body whose purpose is to study and make recommendations to the Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration concerning campus traffic, parking, and transit services’ policies, services, and related issues. Four (4) faculty members; three (3) non-academic members; one (1) academic
administrator; one (1) undergraduate student member; one (1) graduate student member; two (2) COSO members; two (2) KIC members; and one (1) SAS member. The Director of Public Safety, a PARTA representative, a KSU Police representative, and the Manager of Parking Services shall be ex officio members of the Committee. The Committee may call upon others for consultation, but such person would not have voting rights.

College of Aeronautics & Engineering: Fuel Cell- Zero Emission Vehicle
https://www.kent.edu/cae/zero-emission-vehicle-zev
https://www.kent.edu/student_research/angela-deibel
https://www.kent.edu/research/kent-state-research-review-2019/news/focus-fuel-cells
The Zero Emission Vehicle, or ZEV, is the first golf cart to be powered by three sources: a fuel cell, a solar panel, and batteries. ZEV’s design includes additional features; we plan on impacting the student body in a loud way- with the help of an audio system that will allow us to stream portable music around campus.There are 3 power sources in this cart, each with a different source of energy:Fuel Cell: A fuel cell is a device which converts chemical energy into electrical energy. The fuel cell that will be used to power the cart is a 1 Kilowatt PEM hydrogen fuel cell. Clean water is the only byproduct for a hydrogen-feed fuel cell, and it will not emit any greenhouse gases. This fuel cell can also be operated in an electrolyze mode to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
Solar Power: To extend the time between hydrogen refuelings, a photovoltaic panel will be used to charge the batteries when the cart is resting, or in motion.
Battery: Batteries will be used to store renewable energy generated by the solar panel and fuel cell.

THREE KENT RESEARCHERS LAND GRANT TO DEVELOP CITY PLANNING SOFTWARE
https://www.kent.edu/research/ye-zhao-xinyue-ye-andrew-curtis
As the City of Kent continues its renaissance, and nearby cities like Akron and Youngstown continue to refine their plans to revitalize, an understanding of how people use a city and move through it could be vital to development plans. A grant from the National Science Foundation could put some Kent State University researchers in a position to help such cities find and use that data.The two-year $100,000 grant will contribute to the work of Associate Professor of Computer Science Dr. Ye Zhao, Assistant Professor of Geography, Dr. Xinyue Ye, Professor of Geography, Dr. Andrew Curtis, and their colleague, Computer Science Professor, Dr. Jing Yang of UNC-Charlotte. We want to use this tool to analyze data to get a better understanding of the neighborhoods, and help inform the way we plan parks and design traffic routes.

KENT GREEN ENERGY OHIO TOUR 2017, 2019
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/kent-green-energy-ohio-tour
See green technologies in our community including renewable energy, green building and clean transportation!
The Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour will take place Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, at multiple locations at Kent State University and in the city of Kent, Ohio. This FREE self-guided open house is the 3rd Annual Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour and is part of the 17th Annual Green Energy Ohio Tour that highlights sites that are using innovative technologies that benefit the environment. While the Kent State University Field House solar array has been a part of the Greater Akron Solar Tour in the past, this is the third year for multiple tour sites in Portage County. The Kent Clean Transportation Cruise-In showcases energy efficient, hybrid and electric vehicles, and is part of the Kent Creativity Festival. The Kent Green Energy Ohio Tour is a joint event coordinated by the Kent State University Office of Sustainability, the city of Kent's Sustainability Commission and Green Energy Ohio.

KENT GREEN ENERGY OHIO CLEAN TRANSPORTATION CRUISE-IN 2017 & 2019
https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/kent-green-energy-ohio-tour
KENT CLEAN TRANSPORTATION CRUISE-IN 11A.M. - 3 P.M. September 28, 2019
Part of the Kent Creativity Festival in KSU's R17 parking lot at the southeast corner of E. Main and S. Willow streets (near Starbucks) . Behind KSU Cutler Building 414 E. Main Street
This family-friendly event will showcase energy-efficient vehicles (EEVs) including hybrid and electric models (e.g. Tesla, Nissan Leaf, Chevy Volt, Honda Civic Hybrid, The University of Akron’s Electric Race Car and Kent State University's Zero Emission Vehicle). Children and adults are encouraged to “Touch-an-EEV”. Local public and bike transportation options will also be highlighted and a free activity for kids provided by the Kent State University Child Development Center.

KENT STATE COMMUTER AND OFF-CAMPUS STUDENT ORGANIZATION
https://www.kent.edu/coso/about-us
OUR MISSION:
To serve as an active voice and an advocate for the commuter population.
To provide services that will benefit commuter students.
To establish a partnership with the KSU body and Kent community.
To provide and promote a home away from home for commuter students.
OUR VISION:
To reestablish and uphold a flow of information, we envision regular communication between current COSO members and the commuter student body.
We envision COSO as an organization with a large membership that serves as the primary resource for commuter students. We envision a commuter friendly campus, which provides services, programs, and events that coordinate with commuter student schedules. We envision COSO providing free services to commuter students.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Waste?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Waste:

Annual Spring Semester Kent State University Waste Audit by Natural Resource Conservation Class starting in Spring 2017. Students conduct a waste audit and analyze results of our trash and recycling waste streams. Annual spring waste audits in 2017, 2018, 2019, and partial audit in 2020. No waste audit in spring of 2021.

THROW N GO: Annual (exception: cancelled in 2020 due to Covid-19)
Each year during move out, nearly 100,000 pounds of non-perishable food, clothes, rugs, furniture and other items are donated by residence hall students via the Throw ‘n’ Go program, benefitting Portage Family and Community Services.

FRESHMAN DAY OF SERVICE: Re-Purposing Your Dorm Room with Habitat for Humanity August 21, 2019- 31 volunteers
https://kent.givepulse.com/shift/113498-Re-Purposing-Your-Dorm-Room-with-Habitat-for-Humanity
Students will re-purpose cabinet into chalkboards to be donated to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

FRESHMAN DAY OF SERVICE: T-Shirt Tote Bags for Local Food Pantries- August 21, 2019- 53 volunteers
https://kent.givepulse.com/shift/113487-T-Shirt-Tote-Bags-for-Local-Food-Pantries
Students will be making tote bags out of old t-shirts. Bags will be used at local pantries to hold groceries. This is an easy and fun event in partnership with Hillel at KSU.

Throw N Go Throw N Go is Kent State University’s annual move-out donation program that started in 2003 in partnership with Portage County Family and Community Services: Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center. At the end of year, from spring break until move out (~7 weeks), Kent State University residence hall students (~6,000 students across 25 buildings) donate clothes, nonperishable food, rugs, furniture and other usable items via the Throw N Go program. Bins are placed in designated areas in the residence halls collect donations that benefit Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center, and all items are distributed to people in need at no cost. This program keeps quality items out of the dumpsters and reduces waste sent to the landfill. Collection bins (3 per area: clothing; nonperishable food; miscellaneous) are also located in the KSU Alumni Center for off-campus students. Over the past 5 years 2014-15 through 2018-19 Kent State University donated 418,788 pounds (209 tons; 42 ton/year on average annually) of clothing, furniture, nonperishable foods and other items directly to the Portage County community. In the spring of 2019, 63,592 pounds (31.8 tons) were donated from Kent State University to the Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center. This program is coordinated by Kent State University Residence Services and the Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center. Residence Services provides access, determines bin locations and communicates and promotes information to about 6,000 students in about 25 locations. Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center provides temporary bins (3 per location) and takes items donated to the Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center. The Office of Sustainability promotes Throw N Go. The Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center offers gently used clothing, household items and appliances to families and individuals in need at absolutely no cost to over 3,000 individuals and families every month. Kent State University donated 31.8 tons (about 15%) of the 215 tons the Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center diverted from the landfill in 2019.

Fabric Scrap Recycling Kent State University Fashion School, is consistently rated among the best fashion institutions in the U.S. and is a worldwide leader in the industry. The Fashion School began recycling fabric scraps and thread in January 2018. While unwanted clothing can be donated for reuse, Kent State sought a solution for recycling fabric scraps and threads. This program is a collaboration between Kent State Fashion School, Office of Sustainability, and local fabric recycler, Ohio Mills Corporation. The Fashion School wanted to keep fabric scraps out of the landfill and professors and students collect scraps to be recycled in their classrooms. Working with a local vendor in Northeast Ohio, Kent State University was able to implement fabric scrap recycling at the School of Fashion. Ohio Mills Corporation provides the outdoor collection bin and collects fabric and thread for recycling at the Kent State University Fashion School about once a week. Professors and students at the Kent State University Fashion School empty fabric scrap bins into the outdoor fabric scrap collection container. The Fashion School also donates an unknown amount of fabric scraps to local non-profit, the Socially Responsible Sweatshop, which repurposes landfill-destined textiles into useful items and proceeds from the sales of these items are donated to provide extra funds for food-insecure community members and other social justice projects. From January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2019 Kent State University recycled 20,530 pounds (10.3 tons) of fabric scraps via the local fabric scrap recycler.

Career Closet The Kent State University Women's Center, Launch Net and the Career Exploration and Development Center partnered to create the Career Closet in March 2017. The Career Closet was started so that students could easily and affordably get the attire they need for interviews, internships and new jobs. The Career Closet has seen steady participation and is fulfilling a need in the community. Located in the Women's Center and at the Career Exploration and Development Center, the Career Closet is a place for all students to pick out a free professional outfit for interviews and other professional affairs. From June 1, 2018 - August 1, 2019, over 389 pieces of clothing have been given away to 132 visitors, which equates to about 389 pounds of clothing. From June 1, 2018- August 1, 2019 at the Career Closet, 43 donors gave at least 200 pieces of clothing and 10 volunteers contributed over 300 volunteer hours. In 2018-2019 the Career Closet has donated over 300 pounds of clothing to the Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center from items that do not fit in line with the Career Closet.

Winter Coat Drive This program started in the Fall of 2018 by the Office of Sustainability, the Women’s Center and Community Engaged Learning. In 2019 Kent State of Wellness also joined the partnership. Ten winter coat and clothing collection locations were placed on campus for a month starting mid-November in conjunction with the start of Kent State University’s Hunger and Homelessness Awareness week through mid-December. From mid-November through mid-December in 2018 and 2019, Kent State University collected and donated 1,303 pounds, 90%, (0.65 tons) of winter coats and clothing to the Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing center and donated 143 pounds, 10%, (0.07 tons) of winter coats and clothing to the Kent State University Winter Warm-up Station at the Women’s Center. The Winter Warm-Up Station at the Women’s Center makes winter gear available for free to anyone who needs it. In 2018, ten 95 gallon toter collection bins were placed on campus by the Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center. The Office of Sustainability picked up donations and delivered them to Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center. In 2019, 11 boxes were purchased and placed on Campus by the Office of Sustainability and Kent State of Wellness student volunteers. The Office of Sustainability, Kent State of Wellness, and Community Engaged Learning staff and volunteers picked up donations and delivered them to Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center. Location logistics, promotion, outreach and communication were coordinated by the Office of Sustainability.

Bra Recycling Drive Kent State Office of Sustainability has collaborated with the Women’s Center to offer bra recycling every October since 2012. This event reduces textiles that would have been sent to the landfill, allowing bras to be recycled or donated for reuse. Bras that are in good condition are donated to the Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center, and worn-out bras are mailed to The Bra Recyclers to be recycled and turned into wiper cloths and other textiles. Over the past 5 years 2014-15 through 2018-19 Kent State University collected 951 bras; of this 829 bras, 75%, (139 pounds, 0.07 tons) were donated to the Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center and 122 bras, 25%, (22 pounds, 0.01 tons) were sent to The Bra Recyclers for Recycling. The Women’s Center has a collection bin and promotes the event in conjunction with annual mammogram screenings. The Office of Sustainability coordinates logistics, promotes the event, and drops off donations for reuse or mails bras to be recycled to the Bra Recyclers program.

Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center Entrance Shelter by the Kent State University College of Architecture and Environmental Design (CAED) Construction Management Student Organization The Phyllis Zumkehr Portage County Clothing Center accepts donations during their open hours: Monday- Friday 10am-2pm and Tuesday and Thursday evenings 6-8pm. However, the clothing center often receives donations when they are closed at the uncovered back entrance of the building. In order to protect items donated during off hours from elements, the Kent State University CAED Construction Management Student Organization helped build a shelter at the back entrance of the building in April and May of 2019. The CAED Construction Management Student Organization teamed up with Julie Brandle and Elizabeth Eaken of Metis Construction to help take on the project. The students were able to raise $4,000 of the $5,000 needed for the project, with the AGC Akron Division donating the remaining $1,000. Of the $5,000 about $600 was for permits and the rest was used for building materials to complete the project. With help from Kent State faculty advisor, Joe Karpinski, and Metis Construction, the team of Construction Management students were able to finish most of the labor in April. Karpinski enlisted the help of some Kent State faculty and alumni to finish the structure in May. Throughout the duration of the project, 20 different students participated for at least four hours or more.

Student Organization Earth Month 2019 Clothing Reuse Events Three Kent State University student organizations created events to encourage clothing reuse on campus during Earth Month April 2019. Global Fashion Citizens hosted a Spring Cleaning Clothing Swap on April 9, 2019. The Sustainable Living at Kent State University Student Organization hosted a no sew t-shirt bag event creating reusable bags from t-shirts on April 10, 2019. Communication in Global Society Course Students hosted a Fossil Free Fashion event on April 12 where clothing could be brought to be swapped or upcycled.

Kent State University Fashion School events The Fashion School at Kent State University is consistently rated among the best fashion institutions in the U.S. and worldwide. Ranked in the top 25 Fashion Schools the world by Fashionista. At the Fashion School at Kent State University, fashion design and merchandising majors get a chance to showcase their talent and innovation in real-world settings. This energized atmosphere has earned the school a consistent ranking among the best fashion programs nationally and globally. The Fashion School offers many courses and opportunities to explore sustainability in fashion. Some of the 2019-2020 Fashion School events centered around sustainability and fashion include: 1) social justice focus during Kent State Fashion Tech Hackathon; 2) Fashion Meets Botanicals 2020; 3) fashion visuals class partners with Portage County Clothing Center; 4) fashion fabric scrap recycling program recycles 4.4 tons of fabric 5) Fashion School Store launches new collection: Sustainability Retold; 6) Wearing Justice Exhibit brings attention to Global and Social Issues. In 2017, the Office of Sustainability Partnered with the Fashion School for Campus Sustainability Month to offer a screening of “The True Cost” followed by a panel Q&A with Fashion faculty. The Office of Sustainability collaborated with the Fashion School creating an event that engaged students in a meaningful way about sustainability issues. We hoped the audience would walk away with an understanding of sustainability in fashion, to realize they have power in consumer choices, and to realize they are already a part of the sustainability movement through actions they take (minimalism, repair, reuse, etc). The event consisted of “The True Cost” documentary screening, followed by a Q&A panelist discussion from 4 Fashion School Faculty members and 1 moderator and local on and off-campus organizations tabled in the lobby after the event.

Environmental Health and Safety Class Videos Spring 2016
Three videos on our website that were put together as a collaboration between the Office of Sustainability, a class in the College of Public Health, and the videographers in University Communications and Marketing. They are located here on our website: https://www.kent.edu/sustainability/wasterecycling The intention was to educate and specifically to dispel a lot of myths about what does or doesn’t happen with our recycling. Our partnership allowed the students to be involved by researching their topics and drafting scripts. The Office of Sustainability reviewed and corrected scripts. Then the filming and editing was done by UCM to ensure usable production quality. The videos have come in very handy, especially when we get questions about what happens with our waste.

KENT STATE DI HUB GRIND2ENERGY SYSTEM
https://www.kent.edu/dining/grind2energy-0
Kent State has partnered with InSinkErator® through the implementation of Grind2Energy®, an organics recovery process that converts food waste to renewable energy. This forward-thinking approach allows us to significantly decrease our impact on the environment while creating renewable energy for the communities we serve. According to Grind2Energy, food waste from the DI HUB is ground on-site using a customized, industrial-strength foodservice grinder. Food waste is converted into energy-rich slurry and transported to an anaerobic digestion facility where methane is extracted for energy production.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Water?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Water:

WATER
RESEARCHING WASTEWATER AS PART OF OHIO’S COVID-19 RESPONSE
https://www.kent.edu/research/news/researching-wastewater-part-ohios-covid-19-response
Xiaozhen Mou, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Biological Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences, and her research team recently received funding for their hard work as part of Ohio’s statewide collective effort to discover traces of COVID-19 virus particles in wastewater. This work is led by the Ohio Water Research center housed at Ohio State University. As lead funding recipient, it partnered with Kent State, the University of Akron, the University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University to assess wastewater with the goal of providing warnings of the risks of infection in each region. Mou’s team tested water samples from five wastewater plants in northeast Ohio, including three in Cleveland, one in Canton and one in Ashtabula, twice a week. Once these samples are taken back to the lab, genomic RNA of COVID-19 viruses were immediately extracted. Then Reverse Transcription Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reactions (RT-qPCR) were performed to quantify the number of COVID-19 viruses in the wastewater.“A lot of universities in other states are doing the same monitoring work as us,” Mou said. “When there is a pandemic going on, wastewater monitoring has been proved as a good tool to help predict the risks and help in mediating the pandemic effect.” Through CARES funding, Kent State is also expecting to start dorm wastewater testing soon to help mitigate risk prediction on campus in the future. https://www.kent.edu/coronavirus/testing
Wastewater Testing
Kent State will be participating in wastewater testing in support of the Ohio Coronavirus Wastewater Monitoring Network.

Ohio Wetlands Monitoring Program
https://www.kent.edu/cas/news/biological-sciences-faculty-lead-h2ohio-wetlands-monitoring-program
Lauren Kinsman-Costello, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences, will serve as the Wetland Monitoring Program Lead for LEARN. The group will assess the effectiveness and future role of implemented and planned wetland restoration projects. “We have funding to hire a project coordinator who will be a member of my lab group that I will supervise, but who will also work closely with ODNR ecosystem managers and stakeholders out of the Old Woman Creek NERRS site,” Kinsman-Costello said. https://lakeerieandaquaticresearch.org/

KENT STATE SUMMIT STREET IMPROVEMENT WETLAND MONITORING
https://www.kent.edu/research/lauren-kinsman-costello-0
The Summit Street construction project may be an inconvenience to drivers, but it will soon give a facelift to one of Kent State’s main entrances and make it a safer road to travel. For some Kent State researchers, though, it’s an opportunity to make the campus more ecologically friendly and establish trends in biology, chemistry, geology and ecology. Biology professor Lauren Kinsman-Costello is leading a team of student researchers in the study of a wetland area along Summit Street near Campus Center Drive. Kinsman-Costello has been working on the project almost since she came to Kent State in 2014. She said the focus of wetlands used to be primarily their value in diverting water to prevent flooding. Now, however, researchers studying wetlands as a resource in urban areas are also coming to understand the impact they could have on cleaning the water and providing multiple ecosystem services. Kinsman-Costello’s part of the Summit street project focuses on making the area a better eco-system and and more efficient wetland. Her team is already studying the existing stormwater wetland to establish baseline water quality indicators, like concentrations of chloride from road salt, nitrogen and ammonium soluble reactive phosphate from fertilizers, and sediment. As construction proceeds, Campus Center Drive will be slightly re-routed and new wetland areas will be installed. The baseline readings her team records now will help to determine the efficacy of the new wetland.Beyond the practical aspects of the project, though, Kinsman-Costello said the educational value is even more important. “We’re creating this research and education resource for the university, that can become part of the curriculum for classes taught in these areas,” she said. The new wetland will also have ecological and aesthetic benefits.

FRESHMAN DAY OF SERVICE: Environmental Water Quality Quest August 21, 2019 https://kent.givepulse.com/shift/113493-Environmental-Water-Quality-Quest
Join Kent State University scientists in sampling on-campus wetlands, ponds, and streams to assess their health and water quality. Students will contribute to long-term database and learn about environmental research and stewardship opportunities available to KSU students!

FRESHMAN DAY OF SERVICE: Stormwater Drain Marking Project August 21, 2019- 7 volunteers (31 volunteers)
https://kent.givepulse.com/shift/113499-Stormwater-Drain-Marking-Project
Educate the campus community about water quality! Students will apply “no dumping, drains to stream” stickers to stormwater drains on campus. Help protect water quality and raise awareness that dumping litter, debris, or hazardous waste contributes to pollution and endangers wildlife via the stormwater drain marking project. All supplies and training demo provided. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring water bottle if needed. Opportunities to learn about other sustainability features on campus.

FRESHMAN DAY OF SERVICE: Rain Barrel Painting for Water Conservation August 21, 2019- 20 volunteers
https://kent.givepulse.com/shift/113496-Rain-Barrel-Painting-for-Water-Conservation
Students will turn a large plastic drum into a water conservation system. Volunteers can align their passion for art and sustainability in this rain barrel-painting project. Rain barrels reduce water consumption, provide a natural water source for gardens, and reduce the amount of pollution carried through water runoff. All art abilities are welcome! Hosted by the Department of Biological Sciences Herrick Conservatory.
Herrick Aquatic Education Research Facility
The HAERF is replicated experimental wetlands on campus. The HAERF was built on the KSU campus in 2001. It includes 10 independently flooded wetland basins, a stream pool habitat, and terrestrial habitat around the perimeter of the wetlands. The wetlands have been in use since 2002 to conduct population and community-level experiments under natural environmental conditions. https://www.kent.edu/cenrs/herrick-aquatic-ecology-research-facility

Stormwater Wetlands
https://www.kent.edu/research/lauren-kinsman-costello-0
The Summit Street construction project may be an inconvenience to drivers, but it will soon give a facelift to one of Kent State’s main entrances and make it a safer road to travel.For some Kent State researchers, though, it’s an opportunity to make the campus more ecologically friendly and establish trends in biology, chemistry, geology and ecology. Biology professor Lauren Kinsman-Costello is leading a team of student researchers in the study of a wetland area along Summit Street near Campus Center Drive.Kinsman-Costello has been working on the project almost since she came to Kent State in 2014.She said the focus of wetlands used to be primarily their value in diverting water to prevent flooding. Now, however, researchers studying wetlands as a resource in urban areas are also coming to understand the impact they could have on cleaning the water and providing multiple ecosystem services.Kinsman-Costello’s part of the Summit street project focuses on making the area a better eco-system and and more efficient wetland.Her team is already studying the existing stormwater wetland to establish baseline water quality indicators, like concentrations of chloride from road salt, nitrogen and ammonium soluble reactive phosphate from fertilizers, and sediment.As construction proceeds, Campus Center Drive will be slightly re-routed and new wetland areas will be installed. The baseline readings her team records now will help to determine the efficacy of the new wetland.Beyond the practical aspects of the project, though, Kinsman-Costello said the educational value is even more important.

Peatland Wetland
A peatland wetland includes a shallow pool, dry in the summer that usually floods after spring rains and snowmelt. Kent State University faculty, staff and Biology Club students collaborated on a management plan to preserve a peatland wetland on campus. Kent State University is using best management practices to achieve its goal of providing a healthy and functioning wetland ecosystem. This provides excellent amphibian breeding habitat due to the lack of predatory fish. https://www.kent.edu/einside/news/interpretive-sign-project-shows-environmental-value-campus

ParkApps
http://parkapps.kent.edu/
ParkApps is a partnership partially funded by the National Science Foundation (#1422764) to build tools, applications and games for teaching and learning in natural settings like national, state, and local parks. The overarching goal is to enhance our understanding of creation through the use of innovative tools and technologies. We continue to build and test our applications; we have published or presented in the following venues:
Han, X. (2017). Location-based educational web system design and implementation. Unpublished master's thesis: Kent State University, Kent, Ohio.
Shu, C. (2017). Location-based educational mobile application design and implementation. Unpublished master's thesis: Kent State University, Kent, Ohio.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Coordination & Planning?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Coordination & Planning:

KENT STATE CLEVELAND URBAN DESIGN COLLABORATIVE
https://www.cudc.kent.edu/
THE CUDC IS AN INNOVATIVE, NON-PROFIT COMMUNITY DESIGN CENTER COMMITTED TO A SUSTAINABLE, VIBRANT AND INCLUSIVE URBAN FUTURE
We are part of Kent State University’s College of Architecture and Environmental Design. We combine client-based projects, applied research, teaching and advocacy to impact urban design and policy. Kent State University's Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative (CUDC) is an innovative, non-profit urban design practice committed to a sustainable, vibrant and inclusive urban future. We combine client-based projects, applied research, graduate teaching and advocacy to impact urban design decisions and land use policy in Cleveland, Northeast Ohio and beyond. We work closely with on the ground stakeholders, civic organizations, academic partners, students, and a multidisciplinary network of professionals to address emerging issues, locally and nationally, and expand the ideas, energy, and resources dedicated to making better cities. The CUDC works toward the improvement of the built environment through design assistance, research, education, and advocacy. In all its work, the CUDC strives to create livable and sustainable communities, to enhance the public realm, to protect natural and cultural resources, and to stimulate economic prosperity. The CUDC was founded in Kent, Ohio in 1983 and has been based in Downtown Cleveland since 1999. In our 20+ years in Cleveland, we have worked in neighborhoods all over the city, and communities throughout Northeast Ohio and the Great Lakes region. We will celebrating our 20th anniversary with a series of publications, events, and conversations. We invite you to join us as we reflect on our 20 years in Cleveland and look forward to the next 20.

THREE KENT RESEARCHERS LAND GRANT TO DEVELOP CITY PLANNING SOFTWARE
https://www.kent.edu/research/ye-zhao-xinyue-ye-andrew-curtis
As the City of Kent continues its renaissance, and nearby cities like Akron and Youngstown continue to refine their plans to revitalize, an understanding of how people use a city and move through it could be vital to development plans. A grant from the National Science Foundation could put some Kent State University researchers in a position to help such cities find and use that data.The two-year $100,000 grant will contribute to the work of Associate Professor of Computer Science Dr. Ye Zhao, Assistant Professor of Geography, Dr. Xinyue Ye, Professor of Geography, Dr. Andrew Curtis, and their colleague, Computer Science Professor, Dr. Jing Yang of UNC-Charlotte. We want to use this tool to analyze data to get a better understanding of the neighborhoods, and help inform the way we plan parks and design traffic routes.

KENT STATE UNIVERSITY MASTER PLAN
https://www.kent.edu/a-transformed-ksu
During their March 2018 meeting, the Kent State University Board of Trustees adopted a 10-year facilities master plan that embarks on a $1 billion transformative journey of the Kent Campus to better serve the needs of students and the entire Kent State community. The plan enhances the welcoming feel of the university’s iconic Front Campus and genuine sense of place, elevates inclusive healthy living-learning environments, links a campuswide series of spaces focused on innovation and expands the dynamic synergy with the city of Kent.
https://www.kent.edu/a-transformed-ksu/plans-and-presentations
To kick-off the master planning process, the planning team brainstormed with many faculty, staff, students, Kent residents, and Board of Trustee members on what are the most pressing issues. In six on-campus meetings with over 450 participants and an online platform with over 1,200 hits, participants were asked to identify places on the Kent campus that fit these categories:
Preserve (green dots): areas you like very much and want to preserve
Enhance (yellow dots): areas that do not currently add to campus in a meaningful way but could if they were enhanced
Transform (red dots): areas that are missed opportunities that need a complete transformation. Over 1,250 actual and virtual dots were placed on existing campus maps. The resulting patterns are quite clear. Kent campus users love the character of the Front Campus and the Gateway. Opportunities for improvement are in the Glauser School of Music, White Hall, the old Art Building, and the Student Center.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Diversity & Affordability?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Diversity & Affordability:

KENT STATE ANTI-RACISM TASK FORCE 2020
https://www.kent.edu/antiracismefforts
The purpose of the Anti-Racism Task Force (ARTF) is to examine the ways that racism, particularly anti-Black racism, exist and persist at Kent State University. The ARTF will work to deepen efforts to make Kent State an anti-racism institution. It will report on the challenges and barriers that students, faculty and staff have faced at the University, paying particular attention to anti-Black racism which has impeded the success of Black students, faculty and staff. The Anti-Racism Task Force consist of faculty, staff and students who understand and are committed to anti-racism and racial equity. The work of the ARTF will be supported by a steering committee made up of Interim Vice President Amoaba Gooden, Vice President Lamar Hylton and Interim Vice President and Provost Melody Tankersley. Anti-racism Task Force, which will examine 15 areas of university life: academic curriculum; accessibility; admissions and prospective students; business practices; community engagement; faculty recruitment and retention; graduate and doctoral student life; health and well-being; learning and education; mental health support and services; policies and procedures; safety and security; staff recruitment/retention/ promotion; undergraduate student life; and educating our faculty and staff.

RACISM AS A PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS COURSE Fall 2020 & Spring 2021
https://www.kent.edu/publichealth/news/racism-public-health-crisis-course
The new Racism as a Public Health Crisis course was first offered this fall at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The course recognizes racism in the U.S. as a significant cause of poor health, disease, and persistent disease among Black Americans; explores the relationship between racism and health through a historic accounting of social, political, economic, and environmental conditions post-slavery through the current events of 2020; and, identifies how research and advocacy can address anti-Black racism and promote health equity.

Racism as a Public Health Crisis will be offered in Spring 2021 under instructors Dr. Kristina Knight and Dr. Tina Bhargava.
PH30195 Undergrad CRN:20259 M/W 2:15-3:45 pm
SBS60195 Graduate CRN: 20252 Mon: 2:15-5 pm

Social Justice: May 4 Visitor Center and Department of Geography Research.
Researchers in Kent State’s Department of Geography actively research critical social geographies in various forms: political, economic, environmental, violence, memory, culture, and urbanization. We are affiliated with research conferences such as Race, Ethnicity, Place, African Studies, Urban Affairs, and the International Society of Landscape, Place and Material Culture. Faculty also maintain connections with the Cleveland Urban Design Collective and the May 4 Visitors Center (commemorating the May 4, 1970 shootings on campus) and engage their research across the United States and abroad in Cambodia, Europe, and Africa. These Kent State faculty have experience researching the status quo of the world’s political economy and how it engenders uneven development, violence, environmental abuse, and other concerns.

OHIO CAMPUS COMPACT: KENT STATE UNIVERSITY 2021-21
https://ohiocampuscompact.org/what-we-do-2/initiatives/americorps-student-resource-centers/
Ohio Campus Compact (OCC) has been selected by ServeOhio, Ohio’s commission on service and volunteerism, for a second year (2020-2021) to sponsor AmeriCorps members at higher education member institutions throughout Ohio to develop a Student Resource Center (SRC) program. In support of the mission of Ohio Campus Compact, the AmeriCorps Student Resource Center Coordinators will support the development and growth of the Student Resource Centers, an Ohio Campus Compact initiative, which is designed to support campuses in identifying and providing much-needed resources to students who experience barriers to their academic success. A student resource center is a physical location on a campus where students can openly and freely seek support for challenges they are facing. A center or “hub” will be a place where students will be connected with campus and community partners that are able to provide the access to resources that students need to address the issues they are facing. No issue that may cause a student to withdraw from a course or leave an institution without earning a college degree is too small. The Student Resource Center initiative will play an active role in supporting the needs of students and achieving course success and degree attainment.

NEWMAN CIVIC FELLOWSHIP
https://www.kent.edu/community/newman-civic-fellowship
The Newman Civic Fellowship recognizes and supports community-committed students who are change-makers and public problem-solvers. Fellows are nominated by their president on the basis of their potential for public leadership. Through the yearlong fellowship, Campus Compact, a national civic engagement organization, provides students with training and resources that nurture their assets and passions and help them develop strategies for social change to build equitable communities and respond to public problems. The program includes virtual learning opportunities and networking as part of a national network of engaged student leaders (along with an optional in-person convening).

SPIRIT OF WOMEN IN BUSINESS https://www.kent.edu/business/swib
The Spirit of Women in Business Conference is an annual event hosted by the Kent State University College of Business Administration.
The conference brings together women from diverse professional backgrounds. Last year, more than 250 business professionals, along with undergraduate and graduate students from Northeast Ohio and beyond, attended the event. The day-long conference includes a 60 minute keynote speech with Q&A, as well as three breakout sessions, each with presentation options for attendees to choose.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Investment & Finance?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Investment & Finance:

https://www.kent.edu/business/profile/christopher-groening-phd
Dr. Groening's current academic research centers around investigating stakeholder influence on the financial outcomes of a firm. He examines different micro- and macro-level conditions through which customer satisfaction and corporate social responsibility (CSR) affect firm value. Dr. Groening has launched http://www.csrppq.com. The goal of this website is to collect consumer perceptions of corporate social responsible and irresponsible activities. Please take the survey or review the quarterly results.

https://www.kent.edu/business/news/kent-state-finance-students-manage-1-million-university-assets
KENT, Ohio - Jan. 2, 2018 - The Kent State University Board of Trustees recently voted to allocate $500,000 of University funds to be managed by finance students participating in a Student Managed Investment Fund, bringing the total amount of funds managed by Kent State finance majors to $1 million. With the additional $500,000 from Kent State University, students will now manage four separate $250,000 accounts. The purpose of the Student Managed Investment Fund, the first of its kind at Kent State, is to give students real-world experience and advance career opportunities.


Is the institution utilizing its infrastructure and operations as a living laboratory for applied student learning for sustainability in relation to Wellbeing & Work?:
Yes

A brief description of the projects and how they contribute to understanding or advancing sustainability in relation to Wellbeing & Work:

KENT STATE OF WELLNESS STUDENT AMBASSADORS
https://www.kent.edu/stateofwellness/ksow-student-ambassador
We strive to create a healthy environment and to prioritize the health and wellness of our community. This University-Level Initiative will foster a culture of health and wellness for students and employees at all Kent State campuses. KSOW Student Ambassadors will spread information about the programs and resources for health and well-being across the entire Kent system.

KORU MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION TRAINING
https://www.kent.edu/stateofwellness/meditation/koru
Open Your Mind. Manage Your Stress! Learn mindfulness and meditation in just four weeks at Kent State! Discover how to incorporate mindfulness skills and meditation into your life to better manage stress during a free, four-week, 75-minute mindfulness class at Kent State University. Kent State of Wellness, a university-level initiative to promote health and wellness, is offering Kent State faculty, staff and students the opportunity to learn Koru Mindfulness, an evidence-based training specifically designed for emerging adults.

OFF-CAMPUS FEDERAL WORK STUDY
https://www.kent.edu/community/fws
The Off-Campus Federal Work Study (FWS) Program is a federally funded and need-based program that offers off-campus jobs for eligible students enrolled at least half time. This program allows students to earn money to help pay education expenses and to gain employment that is connected to the community and related to their academic pursuits. FWS eligibility is determined when students file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year. FWS does not directly pay tuition and fees; instead, once hired in an Off-Campus Federal Work Study position, students will receive a paycheck that is subtracted from their total award over the course of the year.

KENT STATE ON-CAMPUS STUDENT EMPLOYMENT
https://www.kent.edu/career/campus-student-employment
On average, 75% of all college students are employed while taking classes. Kent State University has over 8,000 on-campus jobs.

https://www.kent.edu/brain-health
Kent State University’s Brain Health Research Institute (BHRI) is committed to improving our understanding of brain function in health, disease and repair. Our mission includes the development of new approaches aimed at understanding an array of neurological disorders by identifying genetic, environmental and behavioral influences that impact brain health across the lifespan.

HEALTHY COMMUNITIES RESEARCH INITIATIVE
https://www.kent.edu/hcri
Kent State University has long been the home of innovative and impactful research in the areas of health and wellness. The HCRI builds on this strength and brings together faculty, students, staff, and institutional/organizational partners, all committed to tackling some of the most pressing health issues of our day. Launched as part of KSU’s strategic roadmap, HCRI is a collective enterprise that promotes trans-disciplinary research and endeavors to build connections between researchers, at Kent State and beyond. Preparing undergraduate and graduate student researchers is also vital to the mission of the HCRI, as they are indispensable to the success of faculty research programs, and innovators in their own right. We view HCRI as a collaborative endeavor that thrives on the diversity of scholarship and research foci of our members. Members' wide range of interests — from the study of Esports to research on diabetes — speaks to the initiative’s commitment to think “outside of the box” when it comes to the investigation of health and wellness. Our diversity is further enhanced by the inclusion of health practitioners, advocates, and educators in HCRI; without them, it is impossible to translate research into meaningful action. We hope you will consider joining HCRI and becoming part of this exciting research community.

KENT STATE DEWEESE HEALTH CENTER
https://www.kent.edu/uhs
The mission of University Health Services is to provide quality healthcare, psychological counseling, and healthcare education for the campus community in support of the Kent State University mission. UHS will be a model of integrated health care as the premier college health center in Ohio, providing comprehensive health and wellness care to promote retention and academic success.


Website URL where information about the institution’s living laboratory program is available:
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