Five questions with Kevin Gardner: CFO/vice president of business at Stark State College
Kevin D. Gardner serves as the chief financial officer/vice president of business at Stark State College in Jackson Township.
Gardner, who grew up in Newcomerstown and now lives in Jackson Township, earned three associate degrees in arts, accounting tech and computer tech from the Kent State University Tuscarawas campus. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree in business administration, accounting and his master's in accounting from Kent State University. He is also a certified management accountant.
“While in my undergrad, I began working for 31 Incorporated, an international manufacturer of tire repair materials,” Gardner said. "In 2010, I was named vice president and was responsible for the day-to-day financial management of the company as well as sales, marketing, customer service and IT.
“In May 2022, I accepted the position of CFO/vice president of business at Stark State College where I am responsible for the financial management and business operations of the college. I also have direct oversight over the business office, IT, security, facilities, and auxiliary services.”
Gardner has been happily married to Federica Gardner for nearly eight years. She works at the College of Architecture at Kent State University as a special assistant in the graduate studies programs. The couple have a 5-year-old daughter, Sydney, and a 2-year-old Bernedoodle named Heart.
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How and when did you decide to change from working in the corporate world to working in higher education?
After spending more than 20 years working in corporate, I found myself wanting to be part of an organization with a greater purpose which aligned with my value system.
Early on in my educational journey, I received three associate degrees which I have used in the job market to advance my career. I have personally experienced the transformative power of education and understand its value.
Therefore, when the opportunity presented itself at Stark State College, I knew this would allow me to combine my love of business and accounting with my passion for education and helping others. I am very thankful to be part of an organization that is impacting the lives of students throughout our community in such a powerful way!
Why did accounting and finance spark your interest as a career?
I took my first accounting class in high school and the concepts came naturally to me. I was excited about what I was learning and wanted to learn more.
As I contemplated career choices, I knew accounting was the right path as it is the language of business and having this knowledge would position me well to work in any field. I wanted to keep my career perspectives open and with the encouragement of family and professors, I was excited to venture into this profession.
What makes you happiest about living and working in Stark County?
Stark County has so many great things to offer: highly rated school districts, many opportunities for extra-curricular enrichment programs, beautiful parks, a wonderful library system and a vibrant community whose members care about and support each other.
My wife and I agree, this is a great community to raise our young family.
Would you share your favorite pastimes when not working?
I most enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter and being involved in our daughter’s activities. I love exploring the various Stark Parks hiking, and spending time outdoors. I also enjoy running and exercising.
Who/what are your three biggest motivators in your personal and professional lives?
My strong faith and caring for others motivates me to do better each day and contribute to our community. My love of family drives me to strive to be the best husband and father I can be and set the example for our daughter.
I also have a strong desire to bring my contributions to the table and contribute to the legacy of Stark State College. I am inspired by all the great faculty and staff at Stark State who support and put the needs of our students first each day.
Editor's note: Five questions with ... is a Sunday feature that showcases a member of the Stark County community. If you'd like to recommend someone to participate, send an email to newsroom@cantonrep.com.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: 5 questions with Kevin Gardner: CFO/vice president at Stark State
