(North Canton, OH – June 2, 2022) – Kevin Gardner has been named to the position of chief financial officer and vice president of business at Stark State College. He replaces Tom Chiappini, who is retiring after 18 years of exemplary service at the College.

Gardner, a Jackson Township resident, has more than 27 years of experience with 31, Inc, a global leader in the manufacturing of tire repair materials for the automotive aftermarket. He served as vice president from 2010 to 2020 and was responsible for the management of financial statements, cash flow management, purchasing, inventory management, vendor relations, logistics and supply chain management, sales and marketing, IT, customer service, and general management of the international headquarters in Newcomerstown. Gardner also provided oversight of a joint venture operation in Shangyu, Zhejiang, China.

After earning an associate of applied business degree in both accounting technology and computer technology, and an associate of arts degree, he went on to earn a bachelor’s of business administration degree in accounting, magna cum laude, and a master of science degree in accounting, both from Kent State University. He is a certified management accountant and a member of the board of Community Building Partnership of Stark County.