Kent State president rejects Ramaswamy's plan to merge Ohio colleges

Kent State University President Todd Diacon is pushing back against Vivek Ramaswamy's proposal to consolidate Ohio's public universities. Diacon touted Kent State's programs, including its liquid crystal technology research and nursing programs, where 99% of students are employed before or shortly after graduation. Ramaswamy suggested consolidation would eliminate redundant universities and create 'centers of excellence.' Diacon defended the regional campus system, saying it was built to serve local communities and provide access to higher education. The size of Ohio's university system was a result of Republican Gov. James Rhodes' 1963 campaign promise to place a public university within 30 miles of every Ohioan. Diacon argued that abandoning regional campuses would harm local communities.