Marilyn Starner, ’71, one of Kent State’s biggest fans, will be greatly missed by her Golden Flash family. Born in Akron, Ohio, on March 25, 1946, Marilyn was an outstanding educator who had a profound impact on many children during her 31-year career as an elementary school teacher. Her successful road to teaching began at Kent State where she majored in elementary education.
She met her husband, the late Buzz Starner, ’67, at Kent State. The pair loved attending athletic events and were Kent State Athletic supporters since 1969. Marilyn particularly enjoyed attending games for the women’s basketball team and cheering them on to victory.
Kent State Athletics had such a special place in their hearts that the couple reintroduced the Victory Bell, a Kent State symbol of pride, in 2011. The origins of the Victory Bell go back to the early 1950s when it was rung after every athletic win. Over time, the tradition had faded, but thanks to Marilyn and Buzz, the bell once again clangs loudly to proclaim Kent State Athletic victories. It was renamed the Starner Bell in honor of their generosity and support. In 2016, a new tradition was introduced at commencement, encouraging new graduates to celebrate completing their degree - the ultimate victory - by ringing the Starner Bell.
Giving back was part of who Marilyn was. In addition to supporting athletics, she and her husband started an endowed fund, The Starner Flashes Brass Band Program Fund, helping a student in the band program. The couple also had a special connection with the Kent State College of Nursing and started the Helping Undergrads Gain Success for Senior Nursing Students (HUGS FOR SNS) scholarship. The scholarship helps seniors cross the finish line to earn their degrees at Kent State.
But Marilyn’s generosity radiates beyond Kent State. She also made a positive impact on the community and was involved with Jackson Bear Hugs, a nonprofit helping those in need.
Though Marilyn passed away on Jan. 14, 2025, her memory will live on at Kent State. At the next graduation, the Starner Bell will ring a little louder this year as we remember Marilyn and Buzz and celebrate their enduring legacy at Kent State.