Gov. Ted Strickland’s visit to Kent State today will be an opportunity for him to discuss his vision for the new University System of Ohio and other higher education issues.

Patricia Myers, director of government relations at Kent State, said the governor’s hour-long visit will include a brief tour of the research-based departments in Williams Hall followed by a press conference in Risman Plaza. President Lester Lefton and Trustee Dennis Eckart will greet the governor when he arrives at 1:30 p.m. Immediately, the governor will tour the 3-D Immersive Classroom in Williams Hall and, while he’s there, hear from biology and chemistry faculty.

The open press conference begins at 2:10 p.m. If it rains, it will be held in the Student Center.

Myers urged people to attend because she said Strickland wanted students and faculty to be there.

The press conference will also be webcast at www.kent.edu.

Strickland recently announced plans to unite Ohio’s public universities and community colleges under the University System of Ohio.

Details are not yet clear, but a few aspects of the program may focus on allowing universities to share resources, making the transfer of credits easier within the state and creating centers of excellence to highlight a university’s strengths and its regional economic needs.

— Jackie Valley