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�鶹���� at Tuscarawas celebrated its 55th Spring Commencement Ceremony on May 8, 2025, honoring the achievements of 250 graduates who earned an associate degree, bachelor’s degree or certificate. Held in the university’s Performing Arts Center, the ceremony brought together hundreds of students, families, friends, faculty and staff in celebration of the Class of 2025.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of several campus awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to education, community and alumni achievement.

Distinguished Full-time Teaching Award

The Distinguished Full-time Teaching Award, the campus’s highest honor for instructional excellence, was presented to Dr. Roshinee Perera, associate professor of chemistry.

“I am incredibly honored and humbled to receive the Distinguished Teaching Award at Kent State Tuscarawas,” Perera said. “This recognition reflects not only my efforts but also the unwavering support and dedication of many individuals who have contributed to my success.”

Perera recognized her students for their commitment, enthusiasm and hard work as the driving force behind this achievement.

“Receiving this award is akin to the sound of a clap; it takes two hands to make it happen,” she said. “Thank you all for being a part of this incredible journey. Together, we continue to strive for excellence in education.”

Community Service Award

The Community Service Award was presented to Jeff Mathias, of New Philadelphia, in recognition of his generous and sustained efforts to make both Kent State Tuscarawas and the surrounding community a better place.

A 1979 graduate of Muskingum University with a Bachelor of Business Administration, Mathias has served the Tuscarawas County region in the real estate profession for more than 45 years. Known for putting others first, Jeff has ranked among the top one percent of realtors in the state of Ohio. Beyond his professional success, he is passionate about inspiring students to dream big and pursue their goals, often visiting schools to share words of encouragement.

Mathias's commitment to the community includes decades of service as Chamber of Commerce president, Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) board member, and former board member of Union Hospital and Hospice. He played a pivotal role in securing funds to update the Quaker Dome, and most recently spearheaded the fundraising and development of a $5.5 million, 20,000-square-foot homeless shelter in New Philadelphia. The facility includes a chapel, counseling center and living space for men, women and families.

“You must help the poor, the needy, the widows and the widowers because it honors God,” Mathias said, reflecting on his mission to serve others.

Distinguished Alumni Award

The 2025 Kent State Tuscarawas Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Amy Brandon, of Newcomerstown. This honor, the highest recognition given to a Kent State Tuscarawas graduate, celebrates alumni who have demonstrated exceptional professional success and a strong commitment to community service.

Brandon earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Kent State Tuscarawas in 2008. After beginning her college career at Malone University, she transitioned to Kent State her sophomore year, attending both the Tuscarawas and Stark campuses while balancing work and family responsibilities.

Shortly after graduation, Brandon began her career at SIMONA Boltaron, a leading plastic sheet manufacturer, where she advanced through roles in customer service, sales and human resources. In 2014, she became the company’s human resources manager, and in 2024, she completed SIMONA’s International Leadership Circle, an 18-month global leadership training program. Upon its completion, she was promoted to Director of Human Resources for SIMONA AMERICA Group, overseeing HR operations for three U.S. companies and collaborating on international initiatives.

Brandon continues to support Kent State Tuscarawas and the local community through sponsorships and volunteer service.

“I’m thankful for the strong base Kent State Tuscarawas provided me,” Brandon said. “And for the many connections and friendships I continue to build along the way.”

The Tradition of Excellence Continues

Dean and Chief Administrative Officer Brad Bielski delivered remarks during the ceremony, commending the graduates on their accomplishments and encouraging them to carry forward the university’s values of perseverance, innovation and community engagement.

The 55th Commencement Ceremony marked not only a personal milestone for graduates, but also reaffirmed Kent State Tuscarawas’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality education that transforms lives and strengthens the region.

For more information about Kent State Tuscarawas, visit www.kent.edu/tusc.