Mathias, Brandon honored by Kent State Tuscarawas

Kent State Tuscarawas has named Jeff Mathias of New Philadelphia as the 2025 recipient of the Community Service Award and Amy Brandon of Newcomerstown as the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award honoree. The two individuals were recognized for their professional achievements and dedication to serving their communities and Kent State Tuscarawas.

Mathias was honored for more than four decades of service to Tuscarawas County through his career in real estate and his civic involvement. A 1979 graduate of Muskingum University with a degree in business administration, Mathias began his real estate career shortly after graduation and has since earned recognition as one of the top 1% of realtors in Ohio.

Mathias frequently visits local schools to encourage students to pursue their goals. He has served the community in numerous roles including Chamber of Commerce president in the 1990s, longtime board member of the Community Improvement Corporation, and former board member for Union Hospital and Hospice.

He also played a role in multiple fundraising campaigns. After raising funds to acquire and update the Quaker Dome, Mathias led efforts over the past three years to raise $5.5 million for a new 20,000-square-foot homeless shelter in New Philadelphia. The shelter includes a chapel, counseling center and living quarters for men, women and families.

Mathias said his faith motivates his work and philanthropy, and he emphasizes gratitude, hope and compassion in his efforts to help others.

Brandon, the recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award, earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Kent State Tuscarawas in 2008. A 2004 graduate of Newcomerstown High School, she began her college education at Malone University before transferring to Kent State. She credits the flexibility of the Tuscarawas and Stark campuses with helping her balance family responsibilities and work while completing her education.

Following graduation, Brandon joined SIMONA Boltaron, a global plastic sheet manufacturer. She progressed through roles in customer service and sales before becoming human resources manager in 2014.

In 2024 she completed SIMONA’s International Leadership Circle, an 18-month executive development program, and was promoted to director of human resources for SIMONA AMERICA Group. In this role she oversees HR operations across three U.S. companies and works with international colleagues on initiatives.

Brandon continues to support Kent State Tuscarawas and the community through corporate sponsorships and volunteerism.

“We are so grateful for the support and dedication of these caring and compassionate individuals,” said Brad Bielski, dean and chief administrative officer at Kent State Tuscarawas. “Their kind efforts are a tremendous investment in our students, campus and community.”

Visit www.kent.edu/tusc.