(Orientation) Who’s who in Kent State’s administration

The administration at Kent State is in charge of all university-related decisions and activities. While there’s countless other faculty and staff members, here’s a brief rundown on some of the top administrators.

 

President

Beverly Warren

Warren has held office since 2014. She and the KSU Board of Trustees oversee the activities of the executive officers in charge of Kent State’s divisions.

 

Vice President for Human Resources

Jack Witt

Appointed this past summer, Witt is the university’s legal representative, and provides legal advice and guidance to its employees and departments. He also manages the division involving talent acquistion, equal opportunity and affirmative action, employee development, compensation, records, labor relations, as well as wellness and benefits.

 

Vice President and University Secretary

Charlene Reed

Reed serves as the liaison between the president and KSU Board of Trustees. She also acts as the communicator between the university and outside organizations.

 

Athletic Director for Intercollegiate Athletics

Joel Nielsen

As the director of all athletics, Nielsen oversees all sports within the program.

 

Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration

Mark Polatajko

Polatajko manages the financial, human resource and physical ongoings of Kent State, and is responsible for keeping a safe environment in place.

 

Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Executive Director of KSU Foundation

Stephen Sorkany

Sorkany took over as head of alumni relations and fundraising earlier this month following the resignation of Jeff McLain, who resigned after one year in the position. His duties include fundraising and promoting the university’s alumni relations.

 

Interim Vice President for University Relations and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

Rebecca Murphy

Murphy joined Kent State in 2013, and is in charge of promoting and marketing Kent State’s identity on a regional, national and international level.

Vice President for Research and Sponsored Programs

Paul DiCorleto

In the position since last year, DiCorleto oversees operations within the Division of Research and Sponsored Programs.

 

Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost

Todd Diacon

Since 2012, Diacon has been responsible for the university’s academics, including the various colleges, schools, departments and regional campuses.

 

Vice President for Information Services and Chief Information Officer

Edward Mahon

Mahon is in charge of the university’s information technology systems operations, as well as developing and carrying out strategies that promote future strategic endeavors.

 

Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Alfreda Brown

Brown has held the position since 2009, when it was first created. Her duties entail creating a diverse and welcoming university environment for all students and faculty.

 

Vice President for Student Affairs

Shay LIttle

Appointed to the position this past spring, Little is in charge of providing leadership for endeavors that promote students’ academic success.