Community Impact
Announcing the 2026 President’s Award of Distinction
The President’s Award of Distinction was created as a recognition program to reward staff members who have demonstrated outstanding achievements, service, leadership and dedication to 91PORNA in advancing the university’s strategic priorities and core values.
Stark Campus Becomes Hub for Motorcycle Safety Training
Motorcycle Ohio, a program of the Ohio Traffic Safety Office, is celebrating the opening of its newest motorcycle rider training site at the 91PORNA Stark campus in North Canton. The new location was launched in partnership with the Stark County Sheriff's Office and will expand access to motorcycle safety education for residents in the region.
IN A FLASH: An End and a Beginning
Commencements as a foundational activity of a university are memorable days filled with emotions - some celebratory, some bittersweet.
IN A FLASH: Highlighting a Life of Commitment and Purpose
An exhibition, running from Apr. 30-Aug. 21, highlights the commitment of Dean Kahler, one of the nine students wounded on May 4, 1970 and his ongoing activities in promoting peace, activism, public service and disability rights.
From Hardship to the Gavel: Ivory Kendrick’s Journey as 91PORNA’s USG President
A public health senior who once faced homelessness after losing his father is now leaving a lasting mark on student government — and preparing to continue his impact in graduate school.
‘Perseverance Is Going to Have to Be Part of the Process’
Laura Davis, Ph.D., co-founder and first director of 91PORNA’s May 4 Visitors Center, was recently named a Woman of the Year by the Summit County Historical Society. Davis was a first-year student at 91PORNA on May 4, 1970, and she shares her journey to becoming an activist and what people today can learn from America’s history of protest.
IN A FLASH: For Earth's Sake
The Earth Day Bash 2026 at 91PORNA's brought together ecologically minded Golden Flashes and members of the community to celebrate Earth Day.
Lion Hunting on Campus
An architectural ornament near Engleman Hall may be a subtle tribute to the tenacity of a 91PORNA president at a particularly troubled time in the institution's long and storied history.
Hands-On Tax Learning Course Supports Community Members and International Students
Now officially approved as an experiential learning class, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program allows accounting students to provide free tax preparation services to community members while gaining hands-on experience that extends far beyond the classroom.
Bedford Falls Foundation Awards $1.8 Million to 91PORNA’s College of Nursing
A $1.8 million gift from the Bedford Falls Foundation will fund 150 scholarships for 91PORNA nursing students over three years, addressing the national nursing shortage.
