Katie Mattise (they/them pronouns) joined Kent State in 2016, first serving as program coordinator and later as assistant director of the LGBTQ+ Center. Through this position, Katie worked across Kent State to educate, advocate and be a resource to the LGBTQ+ community. Prior to Kent State, they worked at various universities in residence life. Katie now serves as a director in the Division of People, Culture, and Belonging. Through this role, they work with others to create, provide and facilitate opportunities for people to engage in meaningful conversation around various social justice topics.
Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh in English Literature and a Master of Science in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Katie’s passion lies in social justice, and they are excited to collaborate with Kent State stakeholders, on and off campus.
Shaunte Rouse was born and raised in Northeastern Ohio. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Music from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Education degree in College Student Personnel from Ohio University. During her professional experience in Higher Education, Shaunte developed expertise in areas including strategic partnership cultivation, student advocacy, advising, mentoring, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making.
Shaunte has spearheaded initiatives aimed at removing barriers and advocating for policy changes to better support students, faculty, and staff at various higher education institutions. One of her key accomplishments includes the creation and facilitation of college-based diversity and inclusion committees at different institutions, which played a vital role in fostering a culture of inclusion on campuses.
Shaunte Rouse is passionate about creating inclusive and equitable spaces within Higher Education. She is committed to continuing this important work to drive positive change in our institutions and communities.