News Releases

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Owens Community College Invests $31.3 Million to Meet Region’s Growing Healthcare Needs

Posted on November 16th, 2023

 
The Center for Fine and Performing Arts rotunda was filled with healthcare students who posed for group photos. They captured the memories but more importantly, they arrived early to be part of the next historic occasion at Owens Community College.

Owens broke ground Thursday, November 16 on a $31.3 million healthcare education center that will support the region’s labor demands by providing highly-skilled healthcare professionals from the School of Nursing and Health Professions.

The renovation and expansion of two buildings on the east side of the Toledo-area Campus will allow for enrollment growth, provide double the lab space and ensure students are working on state-of-the-art equipment.

In all, nearly 200 community members, faculty, staff and students attended the ceremonial groundbreaking, featuring a presentation at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts theatre and then photos with hard hats and shovels in neatly piled black dirt at the nearby construction site.

Among those in attendance were State Rep. Haraz Ghanbari, Tim Schneider, a representative from the office of U.S. Senator JD Vance, and David Wirt, district director of the Office of Congressman Robert Latta.

“We have been educating tomorrow’s nurses and healthcare professionals for more than 50 years,” Owens President Dr. Dione D. Somerville said, “and with this renovation and expansion, Owens will remain at the forefront for students’ healthcare education before our graduates begin caring for patients in hospitals and other medical facilities.”

With an expected completion date of 2025, the center will feature 65,250 in renovated space and 21,300 in new additions to the footprint, providing students with more than 86,500 of square footage as they pursue in-demand careers in healthcare.

The School of Nursing and Health Professions enrolled 1,845 students for Fall 2023, including 1,733 on the Toledo-area Campus, in Dental Hygiene, Health Information, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Medical Assisting, Nursing, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, Radiography, Sonography and Surgical. Exercise Science, which also is part of the school, moved its offices and labs to the Student Health and Activities Center this year.

Student leaders representing the 11 departments participated in the groundbreaking ceremony.

“It’s exciting that we will have a primary location to accommodate our interprofessional education approach, which ensures healthcare graduates are well-trained to practice collaboratively and provide patient-centered care to members of the community,” said Cathy Ford, Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Professions. “Our new and expanded center will feature dedicated spaces to create these collaborations.”

Moody’s Investors Service assigned Owens Community College an A2 underlying and Aa2 enhanced rating for a $25 million bond. The bond is the first in the college’s history, signaling the college’s financial stability. The capital project including renovations, improvements and equipment purchases is estimated at $31.3 million, using bond proceeds, state and local funds.

Owens Community College has served Northwest Ohio since 1965 as an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education with an open-door admission policy. Through intentional, adaptive and empowering education, Owens offers more than 160 academic programs to be the first choice for students, employers and the community. As a conduit to changing lives for the better, Owens creates pathways for success. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

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Owens Community College Breaking Ground on $31.3 million Healthcare Education Center

Posted on November 14th, 2023

Media Advisory

Owens Community College will support the region’s labor demands by providing highly-skilled healthcare professionals from a new $31.3 million nursing and health professions education center. A formal ceremony and ceremonial groundbreaking will mark the construction of the renovated and expanded facility. 

Formal ceremony and ceremony groundbreaking

 10 a.m. Thursday, November 16

• Presentation in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts mainstage theatre
• Groundbreaking photo opportunities near the construction site to follow
  • Students from the different healthcare departments will participate

Theme

The heart for future healthcare professionals

About the School of Nursing and Health Professions

The School of Nursing and Health Professions enrolled 1,845 students for Fall 2023, including 1,733 on the Toledo-area Campus in three buildings (Heritage Hall, Health Technologies Hall and Bicentennial Hall).

Upon completion in 2025, healthcare students will study in the new center, located on the east side of the Toledo-area Campus in the buildings formerly known as the Library and Audio/Visual Classroom Center. The square footage will feature 65,250 in renovated square footage and 21,300 in new additions to the footprint, providing students with more than 86,500 of square footage as they pursue rewarding careers in healthcare.

The new center will house the following 10 departments:

• Dental Hygiene
• Health Information
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Medical Assisting
• Nursing
• Occupational Therapy Assistant
• Physical Therapist Assistant
• Radiography
• Sonography
• Surgical

Exercise Science, which also is part of the school, moved its offices and labs to the Student Health and Activities Center this year.

Owens’ approach of interprofessional education (IPE) ensures healthcare graduates are well-trained to practice collaboratively and provide patient-centered care to members of the community. The new center will feature simulation areas for students to practice the IPE curriculum.

Scope of Project

Moody’s Investors Service assigned Owens Community College an A2 underlying and Aa2 enhanced rating for a $25 million bond. The bond is the first in the college’s history, signaling the college’s financial stability. The capital project including renovations, improvements and equipment purchases is estimated at $31.3 million, using bond proceeds, state and local funds.

Website

www.owens.edu/healthcareeducationcenter

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Owens One Day Registration Event

Posted on November 9th, 2023

Owens Community College is hosting a one day registration event Monday, November 13 at the Toledo-area campus. At One Day Reg, prospective students can get the help needed to start their road to success. Admissions representatives and academic advisors will be available to navigate enrollment steps.

 

When: 2 – 7 p.m. Monday, November 13

 

Where: Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus

30335 Oregon Rd.

Perrysburg, OH 43551

 

For more information, visit www.owens.edu/admissions/onedayreg/.

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Men’s Soccer to Return to Owens Community College

Posted on November 1st, 2023

Owens Community College will expand its intercollegiate sports offerings for the 2024-25 academic year by bringing back the men’s soccer program.

Men’s soccer was introduced at Owens in the 1998 and continued play through the 2015 season. At the end of the 2016 academic year, Owens made the difficult decision to close the men’s soccer program along with women’s soccer and men’s golf programs in a cost-savings measure. The baseball and softball programs also were suspended that year.

Baseball and softball returned in the 2018-19 academic year and women’s soccer resumed play this academic year.

During its previous seasons, the Owens Express men’s soccer team made the NJCAA Region XII tournament 14 times, winning the championship in the 2005-06 season. The Express won its first conference championship in 2012-13.

“We have been able to reintroduce women’s soccer, baseball and softball with success and are excited to offer men’s soccer again for the Express,” said Shelley Whitaker, Athletic Director at Owens Community College.

The head coach position will be posted this month.

For more information about Owens Community College athletics, please visit owensexpress.com.

 

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Owens School of Nursing and Health Professions Expo Day

Posted on October 30th, 2023

When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Friday, November 3

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

 

Where: Admissions Office (College Hall 138)

490 D Street

Perrysburg, OH 43551

 

What: Prospective students are invited to Owens Community College to:

• Learn more about health programs offered at Owens
• Tour various labs
• Meet faculty and staff
• Learn more about the Admissions process and selective health review

Faculty and staff will be on hand to answer questions and provide first-hand knowledge. Lunch will be provided.

 

For more information, please call (567) 661-7777.

Visit owens.edu/visit/snhp-expo/ to learn more.

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Owens Community College Awarded Nearly $330,000 in Talent Ready Grants for FY24

Posted on October 25th, 2023

Owens Community College has been awarded $329,363 in Talent Ready Grants. The grants, previously called short-term certificate grants, will help students who have financial aid need to take a credit or non-credit short-term certificate program.

The programs eligible for the grant are in-demand jobs in the medical, advanced manufacturing and first responder fields including Sterile Processing, Tool and Die/Mold Maker, Commercial Truck Driving and Robotics.

“Students can receive up to $2,000 toward the cost of a certificate and can take up to three certificates total,” said Heidi Altomare, Director of Grants at Owens Community College. A short-term certificate requires less than 30 credit hours or 900 non-credit hours.

Students must be financial aid eligible and an Ohio resident.

“We believe Talent Ready Grants are just one of a series of budget line items that can strengthen Ohio’s education and workforce training efforts, particularly at community colleges,” said Randy Gardner, Chancellor of the Department of Higher Education.

In 2022, the Ohio Department of Higher Education invested nearly $190,000 in Owens Community College to create the Short-Term Certificate Grant Program.

For more information on the Talent Ready Grants at Owens Community College, visit owens.edu/tuitionaid and click on Grants.

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STEM Job Fair

Posted on October 23rd, 2023

When: 3 – 6 p.m. Thursday, October 26

Where: Heritage Hall Room 123

310 2^nd Street

Perrysburg, OH

 

What: Join us for a STEM job fair. Talk with employers in the following fields about their available job opportunities

• Applied Engineering
• Automotive
• CAD
• Computer Programming Technology
• Environmental Science
• Information Systems Technology
• Welding

For more information, email peter_kowal@owens.edu.

This event is open to Owens students, alumni and the community and is hosted by Owens Career & Transfer Services and the School of STEM.

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The College Tour Watch Party

Posted on October 18th, 2023

Join Owens Community College for an on-campus premiere of The College Tour from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Monday, October 23 in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Theatre, 7270 Biniker Dr., Perrysburg, OH 43551. The Findlay-area Campus will host a watch party from 12 – 1 p.m. Thursday, November 2 in Education Center 111, 3200 Bright Rd., Findlay, OH 45840.

We are rolling out the red carpet for nine students and one dean who share their stories of life-changing experiences. From performing arts to athletics to hands-on and unique learning experiences, these featured students show why Owens is a powerhouse community college and the top choice for students in the region.

The students and dean featured in the episode are:

• Al Mitchell – Belonging, Registered Nurse
• Hayley St. John – Athletics, Criminal Justice
• Caleb Prince – Hands-on Learning, Caterpillar Dealer Service Technician
• Quinton Roberts – Advanced Manufacturing Training
• Skyler Vogelsong – Findlay-area Campus, Registered Nurse
• Joe Smith – School and Life Balance, Broadcast Media Technology
• Lucas Wisuri – Career Readiness, John Deere Tech
• Tyler Bender – Opportunity, Physical Therapist Assistant
• Sabrina Myers – Unique Programs, Culinary Arts
• Adrian Smith – Academic Resources and Support, Dental Hygiene

The College Tour is an award-winning series of 30-minute episodes featuring colleges and universities from across the United States. Each episode takes a deeper dive into what student life is like on the respective campus through the eyes of the students. The award-winning TV series looks at academics, career-readiness, student life, sports, activities and more.

Owens Community College is the first community college in Ohio to be featured on The College Tour.

The red carpet experience would not be complete without movie theater popcorn for the big event!

 

 

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CDL Training Program Expands to Findlay-area Campus

Posted on October 5th, 2023

Owens Community College is expanding its CDL Training Program to the Findlay-area Campus. The first class will be offered October 27-January 27.

The classes will be Saturday – Sunday with no classes November 11-12, November 25-26 or December 23-31. The first two weeks will also have class on Friday.

“For quite some time, we have been approached about adding this program to the Findlay-area Campus,” said Carla Benarth, Manager of the Truck Driving Program. “The area feels they would benefit from this offering because of the industrial area and farm population.”

In this short-term training program, students will be taught by licensed instructors through 160 course hours – 40 in the classroom and 120 hours of hands-on training on the road.

This course will provide students with the skills needed to become a professional CDL Class A truck driver.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Ohio ranks fourth in the nation with the highest employment level in heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers. In northwest Ohio, drivers earn an average salary of $54,170, nearly $5,000 above the national average.

The deadline to register is October 20.

For more information, visit www.owens.edu/workforce_cs/.

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Community Members, Prospective New Students Invited to Owens Community College Open House Monday, October 9

Posted on October 2nd, 2023

Owens Community College invites prospective students and the community to its annual Open House from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday, October 9. Attendees will be able to explore academic programs, talk with faculty and staff about program offerings and learn more about support services.

“Owens is excited to welcome prospective students to visit our campus. Whether they are straight out of high school or a few years older and returning to school, we are ready to show why Owens is the best choice for their future,” said Erin Kramer, Director of Admissions. “We are excited to show the region everything Owens has to offer and how their success starts here.”

Owens Community College offers more than 160 programs ranging from business to healthcare to fine and performing arts to advanced manufacturing and trades.

At Open House, prospective students will be able to complete the Admissions application, learn about financial aid and payment options as well as learn more about student life on the Toledo-area Campus. “We want prospective students to see how inclusive, transformational, empowering and fun the Owens community is and why they should want to be a part of it,” said Kramer.

The Open House will be located in Veterans Hall 201 on the Toledo-area Campus.

Campus tours will also be offered. More details are available at owens.edu/openhouse.

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Owens Foundation Golf Classic Raises Record Total of More Than $79,000

Posted on September 28th, 2023

The 21^st Annual Owens Foundation Golf Classic presented by Hylant raised a record total of $79,235 in August and the proceeds will continue to support Owens Community College students, faculty and programming.

The Golf Classic, which was played in August at Belmont Country Club, has generated more than $900,000 since its inception.

“We sincerely appreciate the local sponsors as well as the individuals, businesses and organizations for contributing to the success of the event and future of Owens Community College and our students,” said Kelle Pack, Vice President of the Owens Advancement Office and Executive Director of the Owens Community College Foundation.

“It was a great day weather-wise and the Belmont Country Club staff were gracious hosts. We look forward to another great event next year,” Pack said.

The 22^nd annual fundraiser is scheduled for Monday, September 16, 2024, also at Belmont Country Club.

The Owens Community College Foundation has provided nearly $8 million in support for student scholarships and program and capital assistance since 2002. The Owens Foundation has $6.5 million in endowed funds and scholarships. Visit www.owens.edu/foundation to learn more about how to support Owens Community College.

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Kids Access to Dental Care Day

Posted on September 26th, 2023

The Owens Community College Dental Hygiene Clinic is hosting a Kids Access to Dental Care Day. Dental decay is one of the biggest unmet health needs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1 in 4 children aged 2-11 have untreated cavities.

Owens Community College’s goal is to increase the access to care in children to teach them healthy dental hygiene habits to prevent further decay and address any current decay present.
When: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday, October 2

Where: Health Technologies 209, Dental Hygiene Clinic

320 1^st Street

Perrysburg, OH 43551

What: Free dental services for children ages 6 months to 18 years old. Limited spots are available and appointments are required. Owens Community College Dental Hygiene Department provides free dental care such as dental cleanings, x-rays, sealants and fluoride.

Call (567)661-7294 to make an appointment.

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Owens Community College Celebrates 40 Years Serving Findlay

Posted on September 22nd, 2023

 
Owens Community College was full of excitement as the community joined students, faculty and staff to celebrate the 40^th anniversary of the Findlay-area Campus on September 21.

The celebration flourished as hundreds of students participated in Fall Fest, an annual welcome back festival with free food, friendship and this year, a celebratory mural painting that will be hung on campus marking 40 years of education and service.

More than 60 key stakeholders attended a community celebration luncheon including Board of Trustee members Mary Beth Hammond and Rich Rowe, Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn, Director of Findlay-Hancock Economic Development Dan Sheaffer and University of Findlay President Dr. Katherine Fell.

As the celebration began, representatives for three elected officials, U.S. Representative Bob Latta, U.S. Senator JD Vance and Ohio Treasurer and Findlay native Robert Sprague, presented proclamations to Owens President Dr. Dione D. Somerville.

Dietsch Brothers Fine Chocolates, a staple in the Findlay community, created commemorative chocolate bars that were distributed at the community event.

The day was also a welcome for potential new students who explored the Findlay-area Campus at an open house. Prospective students were able to take a tour, talk with faculty and staff and apply to Owens.

Shop Owens, the college’s online retail store, also set up tables for attendees to purchase apparel in person, including the limited edition 40^th anniversary T-shirt which was the biggest seller of the day. Proceeds of the 40^th anniversary T-shirt sale will benefit Findlay-area Campus projects.

In 1983, Owens Community College planted its roots in downtown Findlay near the University of Findlay. In 2005, the College expanded and relocated to the northeast side of the city to its current location on Bright Road. In its 40 years, more than 5,000 students have graduated from the Findlay-area Campus.

To learn more about the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus, visit owens.edu/findlay.

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Training and jobs are available in public utility operations, September 25 event highlights free education and rewarding careers

Posted on September 19th, 2023

 
Anyone searching for a rewarding career can learn about a new program offering free education and employment connections in drinking water and wastewater operations during an event at Owens Community College at 12:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 25.

The Water Workforce Coalition is a regional initiative led by Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG), Owens Community College, the City of Toledo and public utility partners throughout the region. Learn more about the program at www.waterworksforyou.org

There is a growing need for qualified utility operators throughout northwest Ohio. A new 16-week certificate program at Owens beginning in January will prepare students to pass licensing exams and be ready for rewarding employment in the water and wastewater industry, with tuition paid for by grant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Anyone 18 or older with a high school diploma or a state-issued GED qualifies for this Water Treatment Professions Certificate program, which will enroll 24 students per semester. Students will be expected to attend in-person classes at Owens’ Toledo-area Campus from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Students also will need to be available to attend on-the-job training at water or wastewater plants on Fridays.

At the September 25 event in Veterans Hall 201, anyone who might be interested can learn about the admissions process, hear about classes, and see the wide array of student support services offered by Owens and community partners. Attendees will hear from current utility employees about jobs in their field and will have the opportunity to sign up for in-person tours of drinking water and wastewater plants.

A second event will be offered on November 8, but registration for this program is limited, and those who complete all enrollment requirements will be accepted into the program first.

This program will follow Owens’ established enrollment procedures. If applications exceed the number of seats available, interested individuals will be placed on a wait list and will be prioritized for future sessions or open seats.

“Our partnership in the Water Workforce Coalition is a perfect example of our commitment to connecting business and industry and providing accessible, high-quality education and training,” said Dr. Dione D. Somerville, Owens Community College president. “We are excited to begin to fast track students to new opportunities in public water and wastewater starting in January.”

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Owens Community College, Partners Provide Update on Toledo Location Feasibility Study

Posted on September 8th, 2023

 
A Texas-based research company provided an update Friday on the assessment studying if Owens Community College should add a physical presence in the City of Toledo.

Bryan Ashton, chief strategy and growth officer of Trellis Company, reviewed the assessment’s methodology and eventual deliverables for a group of more than 50 key stakeholders who attended in person plus a virtual audience.

The study will include enrollment trends and enrollment deserts as well as transportation and location analysis. The final report is expected to be completed before the end of the calendar year.

Ashton highlighted two data points that have surfaced in initial research:

• Key parts of the Owens service district include nearly 190,000 people aged 25 and over that only have a high school degree or some college (American Community survey)
• More than 60 percent of individuals in the region do not have a postsecondary degree

“This study is rooted in our new strategic plan as we try to model agility based on a thorough understanding of ever-changing student needs. We are eager to learn Trellis’ findings and make data-informed decisions about a possible Toledo location,” Owens president Dr. Dione D. Somerville said. “We are thankful for the partnership and support of the City of Toledo and JobsOhio for this study.”

Toledo City Council approved funding part of the study June 27.

“Education is a foundational building block and by making education accessible it can and will impact and transform a community,” said Brandon Sehlhorst, the City of Toledo director for the Department of Economic Development. “We would welcome an Owens location within the City of Toledo and what it would signal to the community.”

Trellis Company is a higher education research firm with expertise in program evaluation and workforce outcomes, identifying transportation barriers and enrollment deserts. JobsOhio is conducting research related to workforce development for the advanced manufacturing sector in northwest Ohio. The results will supply integral information to help inform this study.

“By supporting Owens Community College, we are ensuring that the research efforts focused on workforce development are not duplicated. The people who comprise Ohio’s workforce are the state’s most vital resource,” said Kristina Clouse, JobsOhio senior managing director, talent.

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Owens Community College Students Benefit from Community Organization’s Laptops Donation

Posted on August 29th, 2023

Owens Community College students will have greater access to their classwork thanks to AIM Ecycling, LLC’s donation of 50 laptops for the 2023-24 academic year.

Valued at a total of $5,000, the refurbished Dell and Lenovo laptops will be distributed by the Owens Center for Campus and Community Connections to students who are recommended to the center’s staff based on need.

“We are excited to partner with Owens Community College and provide students with access and connectivity to their studies as they create a pathway to their future,” said Brian Simmons, AIM Ecycling, LLC director of operations.

Kelle Pack, Owens vice president of advancement and the executive director of the Owens Community College Foundation, thanked Simmons and members of the AIM Ecycling team during the donation drop-off.

“Thanks to AIM Ecycling’s generosity, we know that putting a laptop in the hands of our students who do not already have a laptop not only provides access but it also sets them up for success as they pursue their educational goals,” Pack said.

AIM Ecycling, LLC provides full-service electronics recycling and is R2 compliant, the leading standard for electronics recycling. The Toledo-based company collects and processes computers, printers, servers, network equipment and personal electronics. Learn more at www.aimecycling.com

The Owens Community College Foundation has provided nearly $8 million in support for student scholarships and program and capital assistance since 2002. The Owens Foundation has $6.5 million in endowed funds. Visit www.owens.edu/foundation to support Owens Community College Foundation initiatives.

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President Somerville Highlights College Plan, Presents Top Teaching Award

Posted on August 21st, 2023

Dr. Dione D. Somerville began her third academic year as president on Monday, August 21 by highlighting the strategic objectives of the new 5-year Owens Community College strategic plan for faculty, staff and community guests, including Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC) President and CEO Jack Hershey.

She also recognized this year’s Presidential Teaching Award recipient, assistant professor Sara Burke, PT, DPT, who is now chair of the Physical Therapist Assistant program. The Findlay resident was one of 42 faculty honored by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) on the Dale P Parnell Distinguished Faculty list earlier this year. She began her Owens career in 2008 as an adjunct faculty member, became a full-time instructor in 2016 and rose to her current rank 2021.

The address was held twice, at the Findlay-area Campus in the morning and again on the Toledo-area Campus in the afternoon.

Since taking over the Owens presidency in June 2021, Dr. Somerville has made it a priority to engage community leaders. More than three dozen community leaders attended two presentations.

Hershey has spent the past 10 years leading the OACC, which oversees the state’s 23 community colleges. He spoke on both campuses about the state budget.

Dr. Somerville focused her Owens address on the strategic plan, which was adopted in May by the Owens board of trustees.

“The plan is authentic to who we are,” she said. “The plan will drive us forward starting this academic year and help ensure success for our students, for our employees and for the communities we serve.”

Her speech utilized the plan’s six objectives to showcase what the 2023-24 academic year will feature. A few highlights included:

• Building a community of belonging – Owens will host the 34^th annual Diamante Awards, a collaborative event with nearby 4-year universities.
• Expanding partnerships – Owens supports the Northwest Ohio Innovation Consortium’s Regional Technology and Innovation Hub Program application.
• Developing an agile framework – Owens launched Workday as its enterprise resource planning software system to better serve employees and students.
• Deepening employee engagement – The College Forum will continue and provide open dialogue on college-wide matters for faculty and staff with Dr. Somerville and the leadership team.
• Ensuring a sustainable organization – Dr. Somerville highlighted enrollment, following the increased Summer 2023 enrollment and continued enrollment momentum for Fall 2023 with classes beginning August 28; the 14^th day enrollment report will be available September 12.
• Telling our story – The Findlay-area Campus will celebrate its 40^th anniversary serving the greater Hancock County community, including hosting a special event September 21 for community leaders as well as an open house for new students.

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Owens Nursing Program Graduates 9 from PN Certificate Program

Posted on August 17th, 2023

Owens Community College awarded nine students their certifications from the Practical Nurse program Tuesday during a ceremony at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts theatre.

These Owens graduates will take their NCLEX-PN examination and upon completion begin working in local healthcare facilities as licensed practical nurses.

“This class is strong in their skills and ready to take care of patients as LPNs,” said Irene Jones, assistant dean of the Owens nursing program.

Besides the Practical Nurse Certificate, the Owens Department of Nursing also offers the Registered Nurse Program, the LPN/Associate Degree Nursing Progression Program and the Nurse Assistant Training/Home Health Aide Certificate.

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Owens Community College President’s State of the College Address

Posted on August 16th, 2023

What

President Dione D. Somerville will address faculty, staff, invited community members and the news media on the State of the College. She will highlight the newly adopted 5-year strategic plan and what to expect in the 2023-24 academic year.

 

Featured Guest Speaker

Jack Hershey, President and CEO, Ohio Association of Community Colleges

 

When

Findlay-area Campus

9-10 a.m.

Education Center 111

3200 Bright Road, Findlay

 

Toledo-area Campus

2-3 p.m.

Center for Fine and Performing Arts Theatre

7270 Biniker Drive, Perrysburg

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Owens STEM school reorganizes, expands to benefit student success

Posted on August 15th, 2023

When Owens Community College opened in 1965, half of its associate degrees had a STEM focus. Today, Owens continues to build on that foundation, recognizing some of the most in-demand careers are in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. Effective this academic year, Owens has reorganized and expanded its School of STEM to better serve students.

Entering his second academic year as the dean in the School of STEM, Dr. Daniel Kelley has worked to organize the School of STEM to reflect the industry needs of the present and future. This important reorganization will include the addition of two new assistant deans and will be reinforced by the hiring of additional full-time faculty members (starting with Cybersecurity, Robotics, Diesel) who will help shape the school’s future in the northwest Ohio marketplace.

All told, two departments, five associate degree programs and seven career certificates were either moved, reorganized or renamed as part of the STEM organizational improvement.

The Department of Advanced Manufacturing is one that has been newly renamed.

“There is a major push at the national and state levels to bring manufacturing home from overseas and this has already resulted in companies bringing large projects to Ohio – take Intel for example,” Kelley said. “The increase in technical and skilled jobs in Ohio must be supported by a trained workforce. Owens Community College will continue to be a major contributor to the education and training of those who will start careers in new and existing jobs in science and technology fields as well as jobs that will evolve or are yet to come.”

In the Department of Computer Information Systems, students will benefit from renovated network and security labs that feature new computer equipment. The total investment for this upgrade was more than $250,000. The labs and faculty additions will support the new Cyber Security associate degree that launches this year as well.

According to a 2023 National Science Foundation report, STEM workers had median wage and salary earnings of about $64,000, which is 60 percent more than non-STEM workers. Many STEM careers include a basis in mathematics and computers.

“We are seeing enrollment growth in Computer Information Systems as well as Advanced Manufacturing, Transportation Technologies and the Skilled Trades,” Kelley said. “We have a lot of great partnerships with corporations such as John Deere, Caterpillar and General Motors through sponsored programs, as well as many other local employers through internships and apprenticeships. We are strengthening our relationships with many high schools and career centers who are making investments and improvements in STEM education so that their students have a clear pathway to Owens for a higher education.

“The jobs of tomorrow are in STEM fields and those jobs will continue to drive the economy of Ohio,” he added.

STEM has a presence at both Owens campus locations, including parts of six buildings on the Toledo-area Campus.

For more information about STEM careers, visit www.owens.edu/stem.

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Owens One Day Registration Event

Posted on August 11th, 2023

The Fall 2023 semester begins Monday, August 28 at Owens Community College and it’s not too late to register. At One Day Reg, prospective students can get the help needed to start their road to success. Admissions representatives and academic advisors will be available to navigate enrollment steps.

Three bookstore gift cards will be given away in the amounts of $500, $300 and $100. Participants must attend the event and be registered students of Owens Community College in order to win. Winners will be notified one week after the event by phone. The Office of Financial Aid will include the receipt of any gift card or prize as a financial aid resource.

Students can also register just for orientation if needed.

 

When: 2 – 8 p.m. Monday, August 14

Where: Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus

30335 Oregon Rd.

Perrysburg, OH 43551

 

For more information, visit www.owens.edu/admissions/onedayreg/.

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Owens Community College Receives Nearly $200,000 in ODE Perkins Grants for FY24

Posted on August 8th, 2023

Owens Community College annually receives Perkins Grants to improve the quality of higher education received by students. For the 2023-24 academic year, more than half of the Ohio Department of Education’s $197,980 grant total will benefit the college’s School of Nursing and Health Professions.

Owens received six grants totaling more than $116,000 in areas supporting improvements for nursing and health professions’ career training:

• $34,329 for computerized medication cards and IV pumps
• $32,367 for dental equipment
• $31,495 for a physiologic vascular testing system
• $9,330 for simulated stethoscopes
• $8,503 for a fetus ultrasound phantom trainer
• $444 for lower extremity semi-disarticulated models

Other Perkins Grants included:

• $24,700 for faculty and staff professional development
• $23,000 for LinkedIn Learning subscription
• $10,542 for Police Academy firearms mobile targeting system
• $8,207 for Center for Teaching and Learning presentations
• $6,055 in Broadcast Media for a content creation project designed for a preschool audience, helping these young students learn colors, numbers and letters as well as diversify language, such as Spanish and sign language
• $5,743 for updates to the curriculum and audio mixing technology supporting Music Business and Broadcast Media

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The College Tour Media Opportunity

Posted on July 31st, 2023

Owens Community College is Ohio’s first community college featured on “The College Tour” series that airs on 28 streaming services including Amazon Prime Video. Filming is happening on the Toledo-area Campus through Friday, August 4.

The College Tour is a series of 30-minute episodes featuring colleges and universities from across the United States. Each episode takes a deeper dive into what student life is like on the respective campus through the eyes of the students. The award-winning TV series, hosted by Alex Boylan, looks at academics, career-readiness, student life, sports, activities and more.

Join Alex and Owens representatives for an interview opportunity about how Owens was chosen and the impact it will have on the College and the community.

Time: 11 a.m.

Date: Thursday, August 3

Location: Owens Community College Outside College Hall and Administration Hall

RSVP: allison_hendricks2@owens.edu

 

About Alex: After winning CBS’s Amazing Race at 23 years old, Alex has gone on to have an amazing career both in front and behind the camera. ​

Above all else, Alex is an adventurer, traveler, and storyteller. He has filmed in nearly every state in America and over 60 countries around the world.

He hosted the #1 food series on PBS At The Chef’s Table and the #1 animal series on PBS Animal Attractions, was CBS’s ‘National Ambassador’ for two summers on the ‘CBS Buzz Tour’, hosted over 100 segments for Travel Channel, was Rachael Ray’s sidekick hosting ‘Rach to the Rescue’ for her syndicated talk show and circumnavigated the world without a penny in his pocket as the star of ‘Around The World For Free’…amongst many more.

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Veterans Tour and Information Session

Posted on July 25th, 2023

Every academic year, Owens Community College proudly serves more than 500 student veterans and military-affiliated students. The College was named an inaugural Collegiate Purple Star Award recipient in 2022 by the State of Ohio.

Veterans and their family members are invited to come to the Toledo-area Campus for a tour and information session to explore higher education opportunities using VA benefits.

When: 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 26

Where: Veterans Hall

363 Depot Rd.

Perrysburg, OH 43551

What: Speak with representatives about using VA benefits, tour the Toledo-area Campus, learn about academic programs at Owens Community College

For more information, visit owens.edu/visit/veterans.

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Owens Welding Cohort Graduation

Posted on July 20th, 2023

A total of 13 students earned their Owens Community College welding certificate of completion Friday, July 21 at Cherry Street Mission Ministries. The Owens cohort began the 4-month training program at the Monroe Street location in March.

Since 2019, Owens has partnered with Cherry Street Mission Ministries and provided access to Toledo residents interested in short-term welding training. Zachary Miller, an Owens instructor for the current cohort, earned his certificate in an Owens cohort at Cherry Street in 2020. Besides teaching, he is employed as a welder for Bullard Company and operates his own business, Exact Welds.

Of the 13 students graduating, three already have been hired by local companies.

“Welders are always in demand,” said Quinton Roberts, dean of the Owens Workforce Office, which oversees the welding program at Cherry Street Mission Ministries. “If you can weld, recruiters will come looking for you.”

Another welding cohort will be offered at Cherry Street Mission Ministries in the fall, but a start date has yet to be set.

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Owens Community College Aspire Program Recognizes 46 Graduates

Posted on June 14th, 2023

Owens Community College culminated the state of Ohio’s Adult Education Week with its annual graduation ceremony Friday, June 16. A total of 46 students received their High School Equivalency (HSE) degree, CDA to Associate in Early Childhood Education and Advanced English for Speakers of Other Languages.

Traditionally a May event, this year’s ceremony was moved to coincide with the state’s weeklong celebration of adult education. The Owens Aspire program offers free classes on campus and at many sites along the I-75 corridor, from Toledo to Findlay.

“We are so proud of our graduates,” Owens Aspire program director Heath Huber said. “These graduates are now better positioned to become employed or seek higher education. They understand the importance of being a lifelong learner. The graduation ceremony is a special day not only for these students but also their family members who helped them every step of the way.”

 

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Owens Grad, Toledo Fire and Rescue Chief Allison Armstrong Receives 2023 OACC Distinguished Alumnus Award

Posted on June 8th, 2023

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC) on Thursday named Toledo Fire and Rescue Chief Allison Armstrong as its annual Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient. The 2004 Owens Community College graduate was honored during the OACC’s Annual Conference in Columbus.

Armstrong knew from the time she was a young girl she wanted to be a firefighter and was appointed to the Toledo Fire & Rescue Department in July 2000. She rose through the ranks and became Battalion Chief in September 2019. She was the first woman named Chief in the city’s history in 2022.

After earning her associate degree in nursing from Owens, she earned a bachelor’s in nursing from Mercy College and master’s in health information from the University of Cincinnati.

“Chief Armstrong is a leader in public service who is dedicated to the people on the front lines,” Owens Community College President Dr. Dione D. Somerville wrote in her nomination letter for Chief Armstrong. “We at Owens Community College are proud of our distinguished alumnae and feel she is an exemplary role model of an Ohio community college graduate and public servant.”

The OACC Distinguished Alumnus Award is presented annually to a deserving alumnus from one of Ohio’s 23 community colleges who has demonstrated a passionate level of commitment to the local community and higher education.

Since first being presented in 1995, numerous individuals who embody the core principles of this award have been recognized for their ongoing efforts to advance the mission of community colleges. These recipients are very passionate about their work and give generously of both their time and resources.

Owens Board of Trustee member Mary Beth Hammond of Findlay was a finalist for the Maureen C. Grady Award for Special Achievement presented by the OACC. She has served on the Owens board since 2013, including stints as vice chair (2017-2019) and board chair (2020-2022).

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Owens Community College partners with UToledo for Paralegal Transfer Program

Posted on June 7th, 2023

Owens Community College and the University of Toledo are expanding their partnership with the paralegal transfer program. This program will allow students to earn their associate degree at Owens and seamlessly transfer to UToledo to pursue their bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook shows a growth of 14 percent, much faster than the national average for other careers.

Nearly 46,000 openings for paralegals are projected each year in the next decade. Many of those openings will result from those exiting the labor force, such as retirement. “In addition to pending retirements, paralegals are being utilized in the field with more substantial responsibilities than ever before,” said Libby King, Business Technologies Chair at Owens Community College.

“The industry need for paralegals means a variety of career path opportunities, job stability and higher than average salaries,” she added. The average salary for a paralegal is $56,230, as of May 2021.

The Paralegal Transfer Concentration at Owens is intended to provide students with the first two years of a baccalaureate degree in paralegal studies. Students in this program intend to transfer to a four-year program upon graduation. Two required courses in the paralegal transfer concentration will be taken at UToledo either in person or online and students must co-enroll at the University of Toledo.

“This is a game changer for students who want to cost-effectively and efficiently complete their education and enter the workforce,” King said.

Once students graduate from Owens Community College with an associate degree, they will be a part of UToledo’s American Bar Association approved program. In this program, which has been ranked one of the 25 best bachelors’ in paralegal degree programs, students will be fully submersed in law.

UToledo is one of the only programs in the nation with its own teaching courtroom. In this courtroom, students will not only have access to state-of-the-art technology, but there is also an advocacy mock trial class and a mock trial team. In the criminal forensics and trial practice course, students from both the paralegal studies and criminal justice programs are placed on prosecution and defense teams where they are assigned crime scene investigators, paralegals and attorneys.

Owens Community College has partnered with the University of Toledo for the Rocket Express program since 2017.

For more information on the Paralegal Transfer Concentration, visit owens.edu/business.

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Artist in Residence Opening Reception

Posted on June 5th, 2023

Join us for a reception for this year’s Artist in Residence, Ellen Loeffler-Kalinoski, at 5 p.m. Thursday, June 8 in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery.

“Windows to the World: Photographs by Ellen Loeffler-Kalinoski” will take you on a visual journey through several destinations Loeffler-Kalinoski finds most inspiring. “I love light…being in it, photographing and painting it and the incredible ways natural light transforms our world and the people and scenes touched by it,” she said. In this exhibit, viewers will see her design background influence and how important shadow are light are in the process. When she studied abroad in Italy, that’s where she fell in love with architectural details, “I combine those details with natural and organic elements to create a pleasing juxtaposition of man and nature, especially in the many views of windows and doorways,” Loeffler-Kalinsoki added.

The exhibit will be open through Friday, August 4.

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The College Tour to Share Owens Story on Multiple Streaming Services

Posted on May 31st, 2023

Owens Community College will be Ohio’s first community college featured on “The College Tour” series that airs on 28 streaming services including Amazon Prime Video. A casting call for students is on-going with filming scheduled for this summer.

“It’s exciting for our students, faculty and staff to be the first Ohio community college on the College Tour. The show’s producers will go behind the scenes to show all that Owens has to offer,” Tasha Hussain Black, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Marketing and Communications, said.

The College Tour is a series of 30-minute episodes featuring colleges and universities from across the United States. Each episode takes a deeper dive into what life is like on the respective campus. The show, hosted by Alex Boylan, looks at academics, housing, sports, actives and much more.

“In our newly adopted strategic plan we identified the objective of telling the Owens story and by partnering with the College Tour, we will be able to share the dynamic student experience with not only the northwest Ohio region, but also the entire world,” she added.

The College Tour will be at campus locations filming July 31-August 4.

The episode will be available for viewing at the end of the year.

Visit thecollegetour.com to learn more.

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