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Kent Today
By the People, for the People
Kent State Celebrates 100 Years of Student Journalism with Editorial Cartoon Exhibit
Alumnus Patrick O'Connor returns to campus to discuss the art and impact of political cartoons.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:05am
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An exhibit celebrating 100 years of student journalism at Kent State University showcases the powerful visual storytelling of editorial cartoons.Kent TodayKent State University recently hosted a special event to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its student newspaper, the Daily Kent Stater. As part of the celebration, the university displayed a collection of editorial cartoons created by alumnus Patrick O'Connor during his time as a cartoonist for the Stater. O'Connor, who also interned at the Record-Courier, delivered a presentation on the art and impact of political cartoons to a packed audience in Franklin Hall.
Why it matters
The exhibit and presentation highlighted the important role student journalists and editorial cartoonists play in shaping public discourse and holding institutions accountable. O'Connor's work from his time at Kent State provides a unique historical perspective on the issues and events that were important to the campus community during his tenure.
The details
The editorial cartoons, recently uncovered from the university's archives, were displayed on the second floor of Franklin Hall as part of the Stater's centennial celebration. O'Connor, who graduated from Kent State, spoke about his creative process, the influence of political cartoonists like Herblock, and the lasting impact of editorial illustrations. The event was well-attended by students, faculty, and community members interested in journalism, art, and political commentary.
- The editorial cartoon exhibit opened on April 8, 2026 in Franklin Hall.
- O'Connor's presentation took place on April 8, 2026 in Franklin Hall.
The players
Patrick O'Connor
A Kent State University graduate who served as a cartoonist for the Daily Kent Stater and also interned at the Record-Courier newspaper.
Daily Kent Stater
Kent State University's student-run newspaper, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026.
Record-Courier
A local newspaper where Patrick O'Connor interned during his time as a student at Kent State.
What they’re saying
“Editorial cartoons have a unique power to capture the zeitgeist and provoke thought on important issues. I'm honored to share my work and perspective with the Kent State community.”
— Patrick O'Connor, Former Cartoonist, Daily Kent Stater
What’s next
The editorial cartoon exhibit will remain on display in Franklin Hall through the end of the spring 2026 semester, providing students and visitors an opportunity to explore O'Connor's work and the history of student journalism at Kent State.
The takeaway
This event underscores the enduring value of student media and the role of editorial cartoonists in fostering critical thinking and civic engagement. As Kent State celebrates its student newspaper's centennial, the university is honoring its legacy of empowering the next generation of journalists and visual storytellers.
