Kent State University at Salem held its annual awards banquet Thursday at the Salem Golf Club. More than 100 students were honored for their academic excellence and scholastic achievements. Top students in business management technology, computer technology, mathematics, early childhood education, human services, psychology, nursing, radiology and undergraduate research received awards.

Several scholarships including the Kent State Salem Advisory Board Scholarship, Donna J. Sedzmak Scholarship, James Cooney Scholarship, John Roncone Scholarship, Home Savings and Loan Scholarship and the Professional Promise Scholarship were awarded. Those earning academic scholarships through the campus’ honors program were also named.

Student worker Michelle Ludwig won the student campus service award and senior Jo Broffman received the community service award. The student body awarded Math lecturer Kathy Johnson with the outstanding faculty member and Public Relations Coordinator Ruth McCullagh was named outstanding staff member. 

In addition to celebrating the achievements of its student body, Dean Jeffrey Nolte presented the campus’ highest honor, its Friend of the Campus Award. The award celebrates members of the community who have worked to better the campus through their time and talents over the years. Joe Sedzmak was this year’s award winner.

Nolte said that Sedzmak has volunteered for Kent State Salem for more than 20 years and currently serves as the campus advisory board chairperson. He also helped guide the campus’ philanthropy committee, which has led to the construction of Kent State Salem’s New Health and Sciences Wing. He thanked Sedzmak for perpetuating the memory of his late wife, Donna J. Sedzmak, through the Donna J. Sedzmak Scholarship, which is available annually for a student attending Kent State Salem.

“The creation of this scholarship is another example of his commitment to the welfare of students,” Nolte said. “Joe is a mentor, advocate, and confidant for Kent State Salem. He is without question one of the most humble people I know, but is also one of the best role models for each of us to aspire.”

Nolte also highlighted how Joe has also impacted the entire community through organizations including the Youngstown Diocese, Easter Seals, and United Way of Northern Columbiana County, the Salem Community Foundation and Rotary International.  “Each of these organizations have benefited greatly from his leadership and involvement,” he said.

More than 200 students, friends and family members filled the Salem Golf Club to help celebrate the nights’ award winners.