Kent State was awarded for its proactive approach to diversity in its athletic department staff by the Laboratory for Diversity in Sport at Texas A&M University.

The university was awarded for its open lines of communication, flexible work hours, and polices and procedures aimed to capitalize on individual differences.

“Our commitment to diversity and, equally, by providing opportunities for women and minorities on all levels from coaches to graduate assistants are what contributed to this award,” Director of Athletics Laing Kennedy said.

Kent State was also awarded by the laboratory for its graduation success rate of black male athletes.

Kent State graduates about 68 percent of all student athletes, which is 16 percent higher than most programs, Kennedy said. The number of black graduates is similar.

“This award reflects on the excellent work of our academic support staff,” he said.

The Male Student Athletes Awards for highest graduation rates among black student-athletes are based on a four-year average.

Contact news correspondent Eric Browne at [email protected].