Kent State officials say they want to help cultivate a growing area of health specialization by creating a school of public health. It would be KSU's first new college since the mid-80's, and only the 2nd School of Public Health in Ohio.
Provost Bob Frank says the University has investigated the idea of starting such a program for more than two years now - and feels now is the right time.
He says there would be advantages for Kent State the school - and for surrounding communities.
PROVOST BOB FRANK: "It really provides an interface between the city, state, county... People that provide public health and the university, and its sort of the gold standard of public health in the United States right now. A few years ago the Institutes of Medicine recomended that's what all colleges of public health should aspire to do."
Including Ohio State, Frank says there are just 40 accredited schools of public health in America, but a boom in students wanting to study in the field, and the needs of a growing population, accentuate Kent's timing.
KSU hopes to open the classes in 2010 using existing space, then build a specialized building, including space for public agencies - which would permit students the chance to observe and interact with professionals.
The cost of the effort is set at $5 million, and will be considered by the Ohio Board of Regents.
Rick Jackson, 90.3
