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Welcome to Flash Focus! In this series, we introduce you to fascinating student Flashes from all walks of life.

Meet Aislinn Foran, a senior communication studies major with a focus in applied communication and a minor in public relations from Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. With a heavy involvement in the Her Campus at �鶹��ý (HCKSU) chapter, Foran contributed to creating a welcoming environment for all members.  

Foran has been a member of Her Campus at Kent State since her freshman year and has served as president for the past three years. One of her significant accomplishments includes when the university library recognized the student organization during Her Week 2024.  

“When I saw the library lit completely pink, I just got to be a girl and take fun photos and videos in front of it with my closest friends that I made through Her Campus. It was just a big ‘aha' moment,” Foran told Kent State Today. “I really realized what I had built on this campus through my leadership at HCKSU.”

Some of Foran’s additional achievements as president of Her Campus at Kent State include receiving the awards for “Best Event awarded by Her Campus Chapter Network” and “Elite Level Chapter.” One professor in particular, Stephanie Smith, associate lecturer in the School of Communication Studies, has made an impact on Foran’s college journey not only as a professor but also as the Her Campus at Kent State professional advisor.

Once Foran enrolled in one of Smith’s courses, she has continued to do so each semester since then.  

“Her teaching style just works so well for me, and I feel like I gain so much more than just knowledge from each course,” Foran said. “She has also provided me with so much advice and support, whether personal, for Her Campus or for my academics.”  

Foran also credits all members of the Her Campus at Kent State chapter for enhancing her experience at Kent State.  

“Each and every one of the members has significantly impacted my life, and neither Her Campus at Kent State nor I would be what they are today without them,” Foran said.

Foran said being successful inside and outside of the classroom has not always been easy due to her struggles with endometriosis, a chronic illness that affects reproductive health. Despite having these complications, Foran has persevered, something she said she is extremely proud of.  

In March 2025, Foran was the 2025 G.E.A.R. Award winner, awarded by the Kent State Women’s Center, honoring her work to make Her Campus at Kent State a welcoming space for all.  

Outside of her studies and campus involvement, Foran enjoys reading and crocheting.  

Foran currently works part-time at Her Campus Media as an associate on the community team, and upon graduating in May 2025, she will be going full-time with the company.

As she closes this chapter in her life, she looks back on her journey and the impact she has made on Her Campus at Kent State.  

“Building up the organization obviously meant a lot to me, but what matters even more to me is what it means to others,” Foran said. “Having the opportunity to build, provide and nurture this community for motivated young women on this campus is not something I take lightly.”

Are you a student interested in being featured in Flash Focus, or know a student who would make a great candidate? Send suggestions with name and contact information to kentstatetoday@kent.edu.