Campus Pride has released its 2020 Best of the Best LGBTQ-friendly colleges and universities list.

This is the first time Kent State has landed on the distinctive list as one of 40 institutions recognized over six U.S regions.

Kent State is the only school in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) and in Northeast Ohio to receive this honor.

For nearly 20 years, Campus Pride has supported college and university campuses to improve LGBTQ campus life for students. 

Colleges are ranked based on information that is provided on an annual basis, through the Campus Pride Index, relating to policies, programs, and practice. 


Ken Ditlevson, the director of Kent State's (LGBTQ+) center said "Accomplishments such as incorporating trans-inclusive healthcare for faculty and staff, a preferred name policy, and integrating universal restrooms are what put us over the top."

"The fact that Kent State is in the top 40 is a major accomplishment and something I am really proud of," said Ken.

For Ditlevson, who started in his position in 2016, he has used Campus Pride as a benchmark and roadmap to where he wanted to see the university go with its LGBTQ inclusion.