Man accused of beating mom — a KSU professor

By MICHAEL SANGIACOMO

KENT — The 18-year-old son of popular Kent State University professor Gertrude “Trudy” Steuernagel was accused Friday of beating her in their Franklin Township home.

The Portage County Sheriff’s Office charged Sky Walker with felonious assault. His mother remained in serious condition in the Intensive Care Unit of Akron City Hospital.

Sheriff David Doak said deputies were sent to the 60-year-old woman’s Franklin Township home around 11:40 a.m. Thursday after her friends became concerned when she did not show up for class.

“She was found lying on the kitchen floor,” Doak said. “Upon searching the house, deputies found her son in the basement. He kicked Deputy Amy Dugan in the face, giving her injuries for which she was treated at Robinson Memorial Hospital.”

Walker was also charged with felonious assault on a police officer.

Doak declined further comment on the investigation except to say that Walker was held in the county jail.

Steuernagel has been a Kent State University faculty member since 1975. She teaches courses in political theory, women and politics and public policy.