As part of Kent State Online’s ongoing commitment to the student experience, we connected with Ken Ditlevson, Assistant Dean of Students and Director of the CARES Center, to better understand how the
university supports students navigating challenges outside the classroom.
For online learners—many of whom are balancing work, family, and school—access to basic needs support can make a meaningful difference in staying on track and reaching graduation. In this Q&A, Ken shares how the CARES Center works with students across the country to provide personalized, accessible support.
What is the CARES Center, and how does it support students?
For online students who may not be familiar, what is the CARES Center, and what role does it play at Kent State?
The Kent State University CARES Center supports students facing challenges related to basic needs, including food, housing, finances, and mental well-being. The center serves all Kent State students—both online and on-campus—by connecting them with resources and personalized support. Students can complete a Basic Needs Assistance Form to be connected with a case manager, who will work with them virtually to create an action plan.
What challenges does CARES help students navigate?
What are the most common challenges CARES helps students navigate?
Many students seek support for financial hardships, food insecurity, and uncertainty around accessing mental health resources. CARES also assists students facing urgent situations, such as eviction notices or utility shutoffs, as well as those who simply aren’t sure where to start when challenges arise outside the classroom.
Support for Online Students—Wherever You Are
Many online students may assume CARES is only for on-campus learners. What should they know about their eligibility for support?
CARES services are available to all Kent State students, regardless of location. Online students have full access to case management, emergency funding (when eligible), and guidance in navigating both university and community resources
What unique challenges do online students face when it comes to basic needs support?
Online students may experience increased isolation and a lack of connection to campus resources. Without a physical campus presence, it can be harder to know where to turn for help. CARES helps bridge that gap by providing personalized, virtual support.
Helping Students Across Ohio—and Beyond
How does CARES adapt its support model for students who may live far from campus—or even in another state?
CARES case managers regularly work with students across Ohio and throughout the country. They leverage knowledge of federal, state, and local resources to help students access support wherever they live.
Follow up – if support outside of Ohio is available - How do CARES case managers work with online students to identify resources in their local communities?
Case managers collaborate with students to research and identify relevant local services, even outside Ohio. While they may not know every local resource, they are skilled at finding and connecting students to the right support networks.
Why Basic Needs Support Matters for Academic Success
Why is access to basic needs support so critical to academic success—especially for online learners balancing work, family, and school?
When students are struggling with basic needs such as housing, food, finances, or mental well-being, it can significantly affect their ability to focus and succeed academically. CARES ensures students don’t have to navigate these challenges alone.
How does CARES help remove barriers that might otherwise interrupt a student’s ability to stay enrolled?
CARES works one-on-one with students to identify barriers and develop action plans that connect them with resources. This proactive support helps stabilize students’ situations so they can continue their education.
Getting Started with CARES
Some students hesitate to ask for help. What would you want online learners to know about reaching out to CARES?
Reaching out is simple, confidential, and judgment-free. The CARES team is here to support students’ success and wellbeing, and the process is designed to be quick and accessible from any device.
What are signs that a student might benefit from CARES support—even if they’re unsure whether their situation “qualifies”?
If a student is experiencing stress or challenges outside of academics—whether financial, personal, or emotional—it’s a good time to reach out. CARES can help assess the situation and connect students with appropriate resources.
How can online students start the process if they need help?
Students can begin by completing the Basic Needs Assistance Form online. From there, a case manager will follow up to schedule a virtual meeting and provide next steps and resources.
Supporting Students All the Way to Graduation
How does CARES help students stay on track toward graduation—not just stay enrolled?
Beyond immediate support, CARES focuses on long-term stability. By helping students build sustainable plans and access ongoing resources, case managers support both persistence and progress toward graduation.
If online students take away one thing about CARES, what would you want it to be?
CARES is a free, student-centered resource available to support you through challenges that may impact your education. Help is accessible, and you don’t have to navigate difficult situations alone.
Need Support? We’re Here to Help
Staying focused on your education starts with having the support you need. The CARES Center is here to connect you with resources, guidance, and personalized support—no matter where you’re learning from.
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