News Releases

---

Owens Express Name Men’s Soccer Coach

Posted on December 19th, 2023

Owens Express Athletics has tapped former Express player and former local high school coach Nate Baer to lead the restart of men’s soccer. Baer played for the Express men’s soccer team, led by Art Johnson in the fall of 2006 and 2007. He brings a wealth of experience and success having previously served as head coach for two prominent high school soccer programs in both Mason and Ottawa Hills high school.

“As an alumnus, Coach Baer understands the integral pieces of a successful program and the important balance of athletics and academics. He has the experience as a player and a coach to help lead this team as we re-establish men’s soccer in our sports offerings,” said Shelley Whitaker, Express Athletic Director.

Baer will be tasked with restarting the men’s program that last competed in the fall of 2015.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be chosen to lead the restart of Owens Community College men’s soccer program. First off, I would like to thank the athletic administration,” said Baer.

Owens holds a significant place in Baer’s journey as a student-athlete, person and now coach.  “I look forward to the connection, opportunities and impact Owens men’s soccer will bring to the northwest Ohio soccer community,” Baer said.  The program will provide a platform to compete at the next level while creating a pathway for additional opportunities at 4-year institutions.  “I am excited to pave the way and restore the tradition of competing at both the regional and national levels,” he added.

Most recently, Baer spent three years as head coach at Mason High School achieving a record of 37-13-9 including a league record of 22-3-2 while earning two conference titles, three sectional titles and two district titles. His 2021 & 2022 finished as the No. 1 team in the city (Cincinnati).

Prior to coaching at Mason, he served as head coach at Ottawa Hills High School for eight seasons. Under his leadership, the Green Bears compiled a record of 112-34-6 including a league record of 58-2 while winning eight league titles, eight sectional titles, four district titles, two regional titles and making one state final appearance. He earned what is considered the highest award high school soccer coaches can receive when he received the 2019 National Federation of State High Schools Coach of the Year. The NFHS award resulted from Baer having been named Ohio soccer coach of the year for 2018 by the Ohio High School Athletic Association.

Baer has been named the league Coach of the Year from 2013-2021 between both high school programs. His coaching licenses include: USSF National E License, USSF National D License, Futsal Level 3/4, and TOVO methodology. Baer has also gained experience via the youth club soccer platform with Toledo Celtics, Pacesetter Soccer Club and Ohio Elite Soccer Academy.

After his time at Owens, Baer went on to captain the Lake Erie College men’s soccer team while earning a bachelor’s degree in Marketing. He currently is the founder and principal consultant of a Data Analytics Consulting Startup.

Baer resides in Perrysburg with his wife, Sam and daughters, Quinn, Brinnly, Rian and Logan.

For recruiting information, email nathan_baer@owens.edu

---

Owens Community College to Award 343 Associate Degrees at 43rd Fall Commencement ceremonies

Posted on December 12th, 2023

Owens Community College will award 343 associate degrees Friday, December 15 at the 43^rd Fall Commencement ceremonies at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg.

A total of 39 students from the Findlay-area Campus will join the 304 Toledo-area Campus graduates for the Commencement ceremonies scheduled at 9 a.m. for the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; 12 p.m. for the School of Business, Hospitality Management and Public Safety, School of Liberal Arts and the Health Professions graduates from the School of Nursing and Health Professions; and 3 p.m. for the nursing graduation and pinning.

The graduating class features 88 students graduating with honors (3.5 grade-point average and above) as well as outstanding academic program graduates. All will be recognized at the ceremony.

This year’s Outstanding Graduates are:

• Outstanding Graduate in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics: Kevin Ganues, Landscape and Turfgrass Management, LaSalle, MI
• Outstanding Graduate in Business Technology: Alex Nyers, Business Transfer Pathway, Oregon
• Gerald Bazer Outstanding Arts and Sciences Graduate: Stephanie Logsdon, Education Transfer Concentration, Wharton
• Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Outstanding Graduate: Sabrina Myers, Culinary Arts, Sandusky
• Outstanding Social Work Graduate: Amber Lopez, Social Work Transfer Pathway, Toledo
• Peggy Bensman Award: Leah Swope, Registered Nurse, McComb
• Barbara Rood Student Choice Award: Veneta Blankenship, Registered Nurse, Sofia, Bulgaria
• Barbara Rood Student Choice Award: Danielle Eiting, Registered Nurse, Findlay
• Barbara Rood Student Choice Award: Haley Ansman, Registered Nurse, Toledo
• Barbara Rood Student Choice Award: Lila Common, Registered Nurse, Swanton

The Commencement ceremonies are ticketed events. For more information, please visit www.owens.edu/commencement.

---

Win Owens Scholarship Worth up to $1,000 by Attending December 11 Registration Event

Posted on December 8th, 2023

Event: Owens Community College One Day Registration

When: Monday, December 11 from 2-7 p.m.

Where: Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus, Admissions Office in College Hall

30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg 43551

What: One Day Registration offers admissions application assistance, academic and financial services advising, placement testing, orientation and registration for classes. Spring Semester 2024 classes begin the week of January 15.

Scholarship Details: Owens Community College will offer three $1,000 last dollar scholarships to students who attend the event. Participants must attend the event and be registered students of Owens Community College in order to win.

More info or pre-registration: www.owens.edu/onedayreg

About OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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.

 

 

 

 

---

Owens Community College to Host Nation’s First Jill of All Trades

Posted on December 7th, 2023

Owens Community College is excited to be selected as the first institution in the United States to host Jill of All Trades on Wednesday, December 13 beginning at 8 a.m. in Veterans Hall on the Toledo-area Campus.

Established in 2014 in Canada, Jill of All Trades™ has been providing hands-on experiences to young women in grades 9-12 to introduce them to the possibilities of a career in skilled trades including advanced manufacturing and transportation. The day-long event aims to inspire these women by providing a safe and engaging learning environment through workshops led by industry and college mentors.

“We are looking forward to engaging young women by creating an awareness of the vast possibilities of a skilled trades career; providing experiences through hands on workshops at Owens Community College and opportunities to network with local employers and industry partners during the event through display booths and industry mentors in workshops,” said Rosie Hessian, Director of Jill of All Trades.

This program’s goal is to help address the skilled trades workforce needs of the future. By introducing young women non-traditional trades and apprenticeships, this collaborative endeavor will allow Owens along with its partners to send a consistent message to young women, increase college enrollment in trades and apprenticeships, retain skilled trades workers, grow capacity and address gender diversity.

“With Owens situated along the I-75 corridor, we are in a unique position to be a driving force for the economy for our region through skilled trades,” said Dr. Dan Kelley, Dean of the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics at Owens. “These students will see why Owens is a leader in advanced manufacturing preparedness and how much of an impact this day could have on their future.”

This year, Owens is partnering with Penta Career Center to host its students for various workshops and mentorship opportunities.

In addition to the students from Penta Career Center, Owens will welcome elected officials and representatives from Buckeye Broadband, the event’s presenting sponsor, along with other sponsors: First Solar, Owens Corning, Advanced Technologies Consultants, Taylor Automotive Group, Barnes, First Energy, Magna, Enbridge and Mechanical Contractors Association of Northwest Ohio.

For the full schedule, visit https://www.owens.edu/jillofalltrades/.

---

Owens Community College Receives Commercial Truck Driver Student Aid Awards

Posted on December 5th, 2023

Owens Community College has been awarded a total of $130,758 to help students seeking to earn a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The Toledo-area Campus was awarded $98,754 and the new addition of the program to the Findlay-area Campus was awarded $32,004. The money is part of $2.54 million from the Ohio Department of Education distributed to 35 institutions to help fuel this high-demand career.

The financial aid will be provided to in-state students who complete the program and agree to live and work in Ohio for at least one year upon earning their CDL. “Northwest Ohio is a major hub for commerce for our country and the CDL drivers are heartbeat of it all,” said Quinton Roberts, Dean of Workforce and Community Services at Owens. “With this award to Owens, we will be able to boost the economy in our region and continue to train more CDL drivers for this in-demand occupation.”

This financial aid will be distributed to students as a 50% grant, and 50% loan, that will be forgiven upon the graduate working for an Ohio transportation company within a year following their graduation from our CDL program.

For more information on the Truck Driving program at Owens, visit www.owens.edu/cdl.

---

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.

---

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

---

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/.

---

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.

 

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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!

 

 

---

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/.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.”

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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

---

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.

---

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/.

---

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

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.”

 

---

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).

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

Owens Community College Awarded NJCAA Grant to Assist with Formation of Women’s Soccer Program

Posted on May 19th, 2023

Owens Community College is continuing to grow the Owens Express athletic program by reintroducing women’s soccer for the 2023 season with the assistance of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Sport Opportunity Grant.  Through the NJCAA Foundation, Owens will receive a grant of $2,000. Owens originally fielded a women’s soccer program from 2011-2015.

“Two-year collegiate sports provide student-athletes with the opportunity to further both their athletic and academic careers,” said Brian Luckett, NJCAA Foundation Executive Director. “The NJCAA Sport Opportunity Grant affords the NJCAA Foundation a pathway to continue supporting student-athletes and the member colleges who provide them with these incredible opportunities while also promoting continued growth and development throughout the organization.”

Zane Polack, a former Express men’s soccer player, has been hired as the head coach.

“We are now in a position to add another sport and women’s soccer is the ideal choice,” said athletic director Shelley Whitaker. “With Coach Polack on board, we are excited to identify the first recruiting class and look forward to games next fall.”

With support from the NJCAA and NJCAA Foundation, Owens offers students in the area another option not only on the field, but in the classroom. “I am honored to have the opportunity to empower players while they navigate their own career path,” said Polack.

Owens Community College proudly offers more than 70 programs and continues to make advances in education to foster success for the next generation of employees in careers from healthcare to skilled trades and more.

Polack, a Bowling Green native, is celebrating not only his head coaching position, but also a homecoming. He played for the Express men’s soccer team in 2007 and 2008. He has coaching experience at the youth, collegiate and professional levels.

“Owens will provide an opportunity for local players to continue playing after high school and also provide a bridge for players who have aspirations to play at a four-year university,” Polack said. “I want to restore the program to compete at a regional and national level.”

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

About NJCAA Foundation

The mission of the NJCAA Foundation is to enhance the NJCAA national organization, student-athletes, member colleges and local communities through financial support, scholarships, program initiatives and community service.

---

Owens Community College Hosts Caterpillar ThinkBIG Global Conference May 22-25

Posted on May 17th, 2023

Nearly 100 Caterpillar representatives, dealerships and college educators and administrators will visit Owens Community College May 22-25 for the Caterpillar ThinkBIG Global Conference.

Owens planned to host the biennial conference in 2020, but the event was postponed that year and in 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Owens last hosted the conference in 2006.

“We are proud that we have been training highly skilled Caterpillar technicians in this exclusive program since 2001 here at Owens,” said Sherri Johnson, chair of the Owens Transportation Technologies academic department. “We value the local relationships we have developed with MacAllister Machinery, Michigan CAT and Ohio CAT. With the conference returning, everyone is look forward to seeing each other as well as enjoying a week of education and an exchange of best practices.”

Besides locations within the United States, attendees are scheduled to attend from Canada and South America.

Owens is home to one of 11 Caterpillar ThinkBIG programs nationally. A total of 13 students will graduate from the Owens Caterpillar ThinkBIG program at Friday’s Commencement ceremonies.

---

Owens Community College to Award 533 Associate Degrees at Spring Commencement ceremonies

Posted on May 15th, 2023

Bolstered by more than 250 healthcare graduates, Owens Community College will award 533 associate degrees at the 57^th Spring Commencement ceremonies May 19 at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg.

The School of Nursing and Health Professions account for 255 of the graduating class.

A total of 41 students from the Findlay-area Campus will join the Toledo-area Campus graduates for the Commencement ceremonies scheduled at 9 a.m. for the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; 12 p.m. for the School of Business, Hospitality Management and Public Safety and School of Liberal Arts; 3 p.m. for the School of Nursing and Health Professions (non-nursing); and 6 p.m. for the School of Nursing and Health Professions (nursing graduates including Nurse Pinning).

The graduating class features 196 students graduating with honors (3.5 grade-point average and above) as well as 21 outstanding academic program graduates. All will be recognized at the ceremonies.

The School of Nursing and Health Professions will also award an honorary registered nursing degree to Charvon C. Thomas, who died as a result of a car accident in July 2022. Her family will receive the degree posthumously.

Tickets are required to attend any of the ceremonies.

For more information about Owens Commencement, visit www.owens.edu/commencement.

---

Owens Community College Offers Motorcycle Training Courses

Posted on May 3rd, 2023

May is National Motorcycle Safety Month. In 2022, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reported 4,096 crashes involving motorcycles, a 3 percent increase from 2021. As the weather warms, Owens Community College wants to make sure motorcyclists are safe on the road through the proper training.

The College’s Workforce and Community Services is offering Motorcycle Safety Training courses until mid-October. Although seats are limited and classes fill, space may be available on a standby basis.

No experience is necessary to take the course. The only requirement is a valid two-wheel temporary instruction permit identification card at the beginning of the class.

In the training, students will be required to complete four hours in the classroom and then 12 hours of riding, all on the Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus. Motorcycles are provided during the course and students are required to provide all their own gear.

Once successfully completed, students earn a 60-day BMV skill test waiver for a motorcycle endorsement.

The cost to participate is $50.

For additional information, contact the College’s Workforce and Community Services at (567) 661-7357.

To register, visit motorcycle.safety.gov and specify Wood County. Owens Community College is one of the few Motorcycle Ohio safety training sites in northwest Ohio.

 

---

Summer Camps for Kids at Owens Community College

Posted on May 2nd, 2023

Summer is right around the corner and Owens Community College Workforce and Community Services is inviting kids as young as three years old to participate in summer camp.

Kids ages 3-7 are invited to STEMulating Young Minds: Engineering Camp. In this camp, kids will build bridges, towers and learn the basic concepts of engineering. When the camp is over, students will get a take-home kit, certificate and shirt.

Satisfy your sweet tooth and stimulate your brain with Candy STEM Camp. This camp, for kids ages 7- 12, uses candy as tools. Participants will paint, create mazes and build structures and more all with candy in a camp that’s sure to be a real “treat.”

Camps run Monday through Thursday throughout the summer. Costs vary by camp.

There are also camps and classes for people of all ages continuously being added.

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

---

College Hosts BIG Read Author Stephanie Foo on April 27

Posted on April 25th, 2023

Owens Community College is excited to host Stephanie Foo to discuss her book, “What My Bones Know”, the 2022-23 BIG Read Selection. Foo’s discussions, both in-person and virtual, will wrap up a year of activities, discussions and programs surrounding her book.

Foo’s book explores the science and psychology behind Complex PTSD through the lens of her own personal narrative. “What My Bones Know” is a book Foo herself said she wished she had when she was first diagnosed with Complex PTSD. In 2022, Foo’s book was named “One of the Best Books of the Year (so far)” by Amazon, named on the NPR “Books We Love” list and was one of Apple’s best 20 audiobooks for the year.

“This year’s BIG Read emphasizes that we must be intentional in giving one another grace,” said Dr. Dione D. Somerville, president of Owens Community College. “We never know what someone is dealing with or has gone through, so it’s important that we nurture a sense of belonging. Stephanie’s story is very moving and it has impacted how I hope we respond to each other as a community here at Owens.”

WHO:              Author Stephanie Foo

WHAT:             The Big Read Presents: Stephanie Foo

WHEN:             Thursday, April 27

WHERE:           CFPA Theatre (10 a.m.), Toledo-area Campus; and Education Center 111 (3:30 p.m.), Findlay-area campus

LINK:               https://owens-edu.zoom.us/j/81484989384#success (10 a.m. only)

For more on Owens Community College’s Big Read, visit owens.edu/humanities/read.

---

Owens Community College Reintroduces Women’s Soccer for 2023 Season

Posted on April 24th, 2023

Owens Community College is continuing to grow the Owens Express athletic program by reintroducing women’s soccer for the 2023 season. Zane Polack has been hired as the head coach and is actively recruiting to build the roster.

The original women’s soccer team debuted as a club sport in 2009 and played its first varsity season in 2011.  The 2013 and 2014 teams advanced to back-to-back NJCAA national tournaments, compiled a combined 31-7-4 record and achieved a No. 10 national ranking in the coaches’ poll.

Bolstered by high caliber players from club and high school soccer, Owens women’s soccer was highly competitive and gaining momentum.

In 2016, the College made the difficult decision to close the women’s soccer program along with men’s soccer and men’s golf programs in a cost-savings measure. The baseball and softball programs also were suspended that year.

“We brought back baseball and softball in 2019 before losing a year in 2020 due to COVID-19. As the pandemic was coming to an end, we were able to bring those sports back to build the number of programs we offered our student-athletes,” Owens Express athletic director Shelley Whitaker said. “We are now in a position to add another sport and women’s soccer is the ideal choice. With Coach Polack on board, we are excited to identify the first recruiting class and look forward to games next fall.”

Polack, a Bowling Green native, is celebrating not only his head coaching position, but also a homecoming. He played for the Express men’s soccer team in 2007 and 2008. He then transferred and play at Gannon University. He also played professionally for the Detroit Waza Flo in the Major Arena Soccer League from 2011-2015.

He has coaching experience at the youth, collegiate and professional levels.

“Owens will provide an opportunity for local players to continue playing after high school and also provide a bridge for players who have aspirations to play at a four-year university,” Polack said. “I am honored to have the opportunity to empower players while they navigate their own career path. I want to restore the program to compete at a regional and national level.”

Polack lives in metro Detroit with his wife and four children.

Tryouts will be at 4 p.m. Friday, May 5 and Friday, May 19 at the Express Soccer Field on the Toledo-area Campus.

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

---

Owens Healthcare Students Focus on Interprofessional Education

Posted on April 20th, 2023

Owens Community College’s School of Nursing and Health Professions created an interprofessional education department post-pandemic to streamline the instruction its students began receiving last decade.

Interprofessional education, or IPE, occurs when students from different academic disciplines collaborate and improve health outcomes, according to the World Health Organization.

Owens was the only community college to attend the national IPE conference in 2018 and with a faculty-led department remains at the forefront of healthcare education in northwest Ohio.

The instruction continues for second-year Owens healthcare students from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday, April 21 when Owens partners with the Wood County Board of Development Disabilities to host the Assistive Technology Fair at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, located at 7270 Biniker Drive on the Toledo-area Campus.

The free event is open to the public and will focus on education, including a series of guest speakers scheduled in the mainstage theatre.

Owens students from different academic disciplines will collaborate throughout the day to increase their knowledge and appreciation of working in a diverse healthcare setting.

“The benefits of participating in a practical IPE exercise at the Assistive Technology Fair are a reinforcement of clinical rotations where collaboration and communication result in the best outcome for patients,” said Cathy Ford, dean in the Owens School of Nursing and Health Professions. “This is what modern healthcare looks like. Our students are prepared when they graduate and begin working in hospitals or the appropriate healthcare setting.”

The Owens IPE department is led by faculty members, Dr. Sara Burke, Julie Lohse, Susan Nichols, Christine Smith and Louise Weller.

---

Owens Express Baseball Team Hosts Doubleheader at Fifth Third Field April 18

Posted on April 4th, 2023

The Owens Express baseball team, led by head coach John Parisho, is returning to Fifth Third Field in downtown Toledo for an exciting doubleheader in preparation for the postseason. The Express will take on the Marian University’s Ancilla College Chargers on Tuesday, April 18 beginning at 5 p.m.

“The team is excited to return to Fifth Third Field and play in such a great environment,” said Parisho. “They are counting down the days to take the field and showcase their talents to their friends, family and the community.”

For many baseball players, they dream of playing in a big stadium under the lights and the Express are ready to do that again at Field Third Field, their home away from home, for the third consecutive season. The Express played the Bryant & Stratton Bobcats last year and won both games 5-0 and 8-7 respectively. “Last year’s games were a big success for the Express and we are very excited to be hosting the team again,” said Troy Hammersmith, Manager of Special Events for the Toledo Mud Hens.

Before first pitch, rising country music star Eric Burgett will sing the National Anthem.

Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for kids ages 6-17 as well as Senior/Military tickets. Owens Community College and Marion University’s Ancilla College will be able to unlock free tickets using the promo code provided on their respective campuses. Students may present their student ID at the box office as well.

Purchase tickets HERE

For more information about the Owens Express, visit www.owensexpress.com.

---

Owens Community College Celebrates Dr. Sara Burke for National Faculty Award

Posted on April 3rd, 2023

Owens Community College Assistant Professor Sara Burke, PT, DPT has been recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) on the 2023 Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty list. Awarded to select individuals who make a difference in community college classrooms across the country, this highly competitive national designation honors faculty who are active in their students’ lives and in their colleges’ activities to ensure student success.

A total of 42 faculty received the honor named for former AACC President and CEO Dale P. Parnell. Qualities of the honored faculty include:

• Demonstrate passion for the students and the classroom
• Show willingness to support students, inside and outside of the classroom
• Participate in college committees
• Go above and beyond what is required to ensure that students are successful in their academic endeavors

“Dr. Burke has incredible passion for students and for teaching. Her dedication provides the opportunity for a transformational educational experience for her students,” Owens President Dr. Dione D. Somerville said. “She is a student and practitioner of teaching excellence and is intentional about ensuring an effective student experience.

“She elevates the performance of those around her,” Dr. Somerville added. “She embodies the Owens mission by creating pathways for students. She is not only inspiring her students but her colleagues, and in doing so, she is distinguished by establishing an Owens legacy of success.”

The AACC will recognize the 2023 recipients at its national conference in Denver on Tuesday, April 4.

“I love working at Owens and being able to make a difference. It’s all about the Owens students and their accomplishments,” Dr. Burke said. “That’s why I’m excited to go to work every day. I’m humbled to be recognized for doing what I love. I’m grateful to the AACC for selecting me and for everyone at Owens, including Dr. Somerville, the faculty and staff and our students.”

Owens faculty members Jen Hazel, English professor, and Sarah Long, mathematics associate professor, received the Parnell honor in 2022 and 2021.

“We are so proud of all of our faculty – and the national faculty recognition for Sara, Jen and Sarah these past three years highlights what our students already know, that we have some of the best and brightest faculty members in the country,” Dr. Somerville said.

Dr. Burke began her Owens career in 2008 as an adjunct faculty member in the science department. She began teaching in the physical therapist assistant (PTA) program as an instructor in 2016 and rose to her current rank of assistant professor in 2021.

In 2018, Dr. Burke joined the interprofessional leadership team, which assists in the creation and delivery of School of Nursing and Health Professions events as well as facilitates and obtains data collection during the events for future publication of findings and results. She successfully completed the virtual 2021 IPEC Interprofessional Leadership Development Program. She also completed the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) Course in Effective Online Teaching Practices co-endorsed by the American Council on Education (ACE).

She received the College’s School of Nursing and Health Professions Teaching Excellence Award in 2022.

This year, she took over the leadership of the Owens PTA program.

A licensed physical therapist who resides in Findlay, she served as the northwest district chair of the Ohio Physical Therapist Assistant Program from 2020-21. Dr. Burke earned her doctorate in physical therapy at the University of Findlay and bachelor’s degree in science at Ohio State University-Lima Campus.

---

Owens Community College STEM Job Fair

Posted on March 30th, 2023

When: 4 – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 6

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 or visit www.owens.edu/STEM

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

---

Owens Community College BIG Read Project Donates Books, Bookshelves to Findlay Agencies

Posted on March 22nd, 2023

The Owens Community College BIG Read project launched the Hancock County phase of its community outreach initiative by donating books and bookshelves to the Findlay City Mission and Open Arms on Tuesday, March 21.

Jane Berger and Jen Hazel from Owens presented the items to the Findlay City Mission’s Kathryn Bausman, executive director, and Charity Hensley, development coordinator; they then drove two blocks south to Open Arms, where Roseanna Thornton, communications coordinator, accepted the bookshelf and books.

While the BIG Read committee collected and refurbished bookshelves to distribute in Toledo last year, these bookshelves were donated unfinished by Archbold Furniture. They were then painted Owens’ signature red. Students, faculty and staff have continued to donate books for the outreach project.

“We are focused on Findlay and greater Hancock County for our donations,” said Berger, the Owens Librarian. “We concluded the first phase of this initiative last November during National Family Literacy Month and we are excited to begin the second phase this month in March during National Reading Month.”

Berger added that the Hancock County phase of the project will continue throughout 2023.

“The community engagement part of our BIG Read project is immeasurable,” said Hazel, an Owens English professor. “We know that reading is a key component of education and professional development. It’s humbling that we are able to share the gift of reading with so many in our community.”

Anyone interested in contributing books is encouraged to visit www.owens.edu/humanities/read/.

---

Networking Fair and Symposium Showcases Arts Careers

Posted on March 7th, 2023

Owens Community College invites students, alumni and the community to the free Fine and Performing Arts Networking Fair and Symposium. This event, which is free, will take place in a virtual and in-person format with more than 20 sessions to attend. On Tuesday, March 14 and Wednesday, March 15, all sessions will be held virtually. On Thursday, March 16, join for in-person sessions at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, 7270 Biniker Drive, Perrysburg, OH 43551.

Attendees will be able to meet educators and professionals from the fields of graphic design, animation, photography, recording arts, broadcasting, theatre, music, music business and fine arts. “We have a lot of great educational opportunities at Owens in the classroom every semester but this event is when we bring career professionals together with students to talk about opportunities and future careers and the future of industry,” said Jeremy Meier, Chair of Fine and Performing Arts.

This biennial event is moving to a hybrid format this year. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was fully virtual. The hybrid format will allow for participants and professionals to continue joining from outside the area. Meier added, “we learned a lot from the pandemic and this shows how truly collaborative this event can be with giving people more opportunities.”

Each in-person session on Thursday, March 16 will last 45 minutes and allow 15 minutes between sessions for participants to network not only with each other, but with industry professionals as well. “Getting face-to-face opportunities for students to talk about industries around the region is invaluable. They are not only seeing ways to grow in the classroom, but also how to grow and start their careers in northwest Ohio,” Meier added.

View the full schedule of speakers and sessions and register for the Fine and Performing Arts Networking Fair and Symposium at www.owens.edu/fpa/networking/.

---

Owens Community College Hosts Area’s Largest College Night Events

Posted on February 27th, 2023

High school students and their parents, as well as prospective students of all ages, are invited to meet with representatives from colleges, universities, industries and the military at two of the premier college night events in our region.

In partnership with 11 area high schools, Greater Hancock County College Night will begin at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 6 at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus in the Community Education and Wellness Center, 3200 Bright Road, Findlay.

In partnership with 17 local high schools, College and Career Preview Night is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 8 at the Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus in the Student Health and Activities Center, 7315 Championship Drive, Perrysburg.

The college nights also feature presentations on financial aid and in-demand careers plus information tables focused on helping students succeed after high school.

More details and a list of representatives attending are available at www.owens.edu/collegenight.

---

Owens Community College Dept. of Public Safety Offers ALICE Training to Community

Posted on February 22nd, 2023

Owens Community College’s Department of Public Safety will offer ALICE Training to community groups or individuals in the coming months.  Developed more than 20 years ago, ALICE Training is an active shooter response training program available for individuals, schools, workplaces and other community organizations.

“The program’s vision is to empower people with the skills and knowledge to respond in the event of an active shooter situation,” Owens Police Chief and Director of Public Safety Steve Harrison said. “The ALICE acronym stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate. The acronym was created so that these steps can quickly be remembered and people will be able to do everything possible to save themselves and others.”

The training sessions will be held in-person and virtually through Microsoft Teams. The first session is scheduled at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 8 in Veterans Hall 201 on the Toledo-area Campus. To attend this session or schedule a session, contact Detective Terry Ferguson at terry_ferguson@owens.edu or (567) 661-7575. Specific session dates also will be posted at www.owens.edu/dps/safety.

---

Owens Community College Human Resources Dept. Hosts Career Expo

Posted on February 20th, 2023

Owens Community College is hosting a career expo for persons interested in working in higher education. Owens employs faculty, adjunct faculty and staff to foster student and community success. For persons hired, benefits include competitive pay, full benefits, tuition waivers and more.

Human Resources staff will be available to answer questions about working at Owens and assist interested persons with completing the Owens employment application.

All attendees will receive an Owens gift bag.

Event date: Wednesday, February 22

Where: Owens Community College Human Resources, Administration Hall, second floor

30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg OH 43551

Time Schedule:

9 a.m.-6 p.m.

More info:

Call (567) 661-7292

Email employment@owens.edu

Job openings listing – jobs.owens.edu

---

Maumee Native Earns RN Degree, Becomes Third Generation Nurse

Posted on February 16th, 2023

The power of family can be very strong for people. They are there through all walks of life and provide direction. For Alyson Stanton, a Fall 2022 nursing graduate, her family inspired her to pursue a career in nursing and carry on the family legacy.

Stanton is now a third-generation nurse, following her grandmother, Shirley, a cardiac nurse at the old Riverside Hospital in Toledo and her mother, Cynthia, a postpartum and blood management nurse at ProMedica Toledo Hospital.

Stanton did not intent to become a nurse, but her life’s path changed in 2017 when her grandmother was diagnosed with cancer. “My mom and I didn’t want her to have to go into a facility so my mom and I decided it was time to take care of her full time. That’s when the passion for becoming a nurse came to me,” she said. Growing up, Stanton always said she would never become a nurse because she was surrounded by her mom and grandma talking about it constantly. When she realized the impact that nursing had on her family and keeping her grandmother at home until she died in July of that year, her perspective of the nursing field was forever changed.

She enrolled at Owens to become a nurse. During Stanton’s clinical rotation in obstetrics, she was able to do a clinical with her mother. “My mom was the reason I enrolled at Owens. She graduated in 2008 and had nothing but amazing things to say about her time and I knew it was the place for me,” she said.

The Maumee native has one daughter who has her own inspiration to get into the medical field. “Every few days I hear ‘I want to be a doctor when I grow up’ and I’m happy she wants to be in the medical field just like mom, grandma and great-grandma,” Stanton said.

---

Owens Community College Trustee Members Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 13th, 2023

Owens Community College has named Sherina Ohanian of Perrysburg as chair and Mary Beth Hammond of Findlay, the former chair, as vice chair of the College’s Board of Trustees. They will serve one-year terms following a vote by the board at the February meeting.

Appointed to the board in March 2021, Ohanian is a Director, Market Strategy and Understanding at Ipsos. She has more than 20 years of experience working in market research for Fortune 500 companies across all industries and company size. She is the President-Elect of the Perrysburg Rotary Club, member of the Advisory Council for the Perrysburg Schools Facility Dog program and a graduate of the FBI Citizens Academy.

Hammond served as board chair for three consecutive terms under three Owens Community College presidents, including current president Dr. Dione D. Somerville. With more than 30 years of financial experience, Hammond is currently Senior Private Banker at Fifth Third Bank in Findlay. She is a past president of the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce.

The College’s board of trustees is comprised of nine community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock Counties who are appointed by the Governor of Ohio for six-year terms. There are currently two vacancies. In addition to Ohanian and Hammond, board members include Dr. Srini Hejeebu of Sylvania, Matthew McAlear of Perrysburg, Richard Rowe Jr. of Findlay, Rita Russell of Toledo and Diana (Dee) Talmage of Ottawa Hills.

 

---

Owens Community College Hosts President’s Day Preview New Student Event

Posted on February 9th, 2023

Owens Community College welcomes community members and prospective new students to explore academic programs and more at the annual President’s Day Preview from 10 a.m-5 p.m. Monday, February 20 on the Toledo-area Campus.

The preview day begins at Veterans Hall, 363 Depot Road, Perrysburg. Parking is recommended in the lot next to Founders Hall.

The event features a campus tour.

“Our faculty and staff will be available to talk about our more than 70 academic programs and our transfer options to four-year colleges and universities,” Erin Kramer, Director of Admissions, said. “In addition to academics, the Owens experience includes our dedicated support services such as academic advising as well as our student clubs and organizations. We will have representatives at the President’s Day Preview to discuss these services that benefit student success.”

Admissions staff will discuss the selective health admissions process for the 13 programs in the School of Nursing and Health Professions, such as Registered Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, Surgical Technology and more.

An overview of financial aid and the FAFSA will be offered as well.

“The President’s Day Preview will allow students to explore what we offer to support their educational journey. We also know that many students come ready to take the next step and begin the enrollment process. Our staff will assist anyone interested in completing an admissions application, needing support with the FAFSA, or is ready to sign up for orientation,” Kramer said.

More information is available at www.owens.edu/preview.

---

Owens National Champion roots for brother playing in Super Bowl LVII

Posted on February 7th, 2023

Every year, millions of people watch the Super Bowl. This year, when the Kansas City Chiefs play the Philadelphia Eagles, the game will have extra meaning for Owens Community College basketball player BreAnna Clemons. Her brother, Bryan Cook, is a rookie safety the Kansas City Chiefs.

“It’s extremely exciting and very surreal,” said Clemons of her brother, drafted 62^nd overall from the University of Cincinnati in the 2022 NFL Draft. “The fact that he is in the NFL and to make it to the Super Bowl in his rookie season is truly incredible and a blessing.” Clemons was joined by her mom, brother and aunt in Kansas City for the Chiefs’ thrilling AFC win against the Cincinnati Bengals, sending the Chiefs to the Super Bowl.

Clemons will cheer on her brother from the stands in Arizona this Sunday. She plans to attend Owens Express practice today and play in the Express game at Terra State on Wednesday, February 8. She will go home to Cincinnati before flying to Arizona with the rest of the Chiefs players’ family members.

Last season, Clemons was a part of the Owens Express national championship women’s basketball team. “It felt great. It was the first time I ever won a tournament for a school,” she said. She said even though her brother has played in many big games, as a national champion herself, she did give him some advice. “I told him to play his game – and it’s ring season.”

Growing up in Cincinnati, Clemons and her brother were always competitive. Whether it was just to go outside or to get on the basketball court and play one-on-one, even if she didn’t want to play. “He was always pushing me out of my comfort zone and it helped me (develop) a competitive side,” she said.

Despite their busy schedules, Clemons and Cook talk on the phone every couple of days. She’ll be nearby in the stands for Super Bowl LVII in Glendale, Arizona, watching her brother try to win the Lombardi trophy while millions of Americans tune in on FOX. Kickoff is at 6:30 p.m. local time.

 

---

Owens continues as training leader through GM Advanced Manufacturing Grant

Posted on February 2nd, 2023

At the forefront of advanced manufacturing training in northwest Ohio, Owens Community College is now positioned to explore new training initiatives thanks to a $40,000 grant from General Motors (GM). The grant will fund a study that explores options to launch individuals into higher skills and higher wage opportunities in Industry 4.0 and 5.0 advanced manufacturing credentials.

“We are excited to deepen our partnership with General Motors so that Owens Community College will continue to address labor market demands by producing job-ready workers,” Owens President Dr. Dione D. Somerville said. “Thanks to these grant dollars, we will assess the current and relevant training that is needed to align with GM’s advancements in technology and automation.”

Owens executive team members toured the GM Toledo Propulsions Systems facility and met with GM leaders on Wednesday, February 1.

“Owens Community College and GM Toledo Propulsion Systems partnership will help to drive the transformation of advanced manufacturing,” said GM Toledo Plant Executive Director Eric Gonzales. “The technological journey of innovation demands integration of higher skills, through the development of constant training and education programs for our workforce.”

Owens offers 23 programs and certificates at the modern Dana Center for advanced manufacturing training on the Toledo-area Campus and partners with Raise the Bar Hancock County for the Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnership apprenticeship program on the Findlay-area Campus. In 2021, Owens, Bowling Green State University and the University of Findlay created a unique partnership and formed the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics, a hub for business and industry along the I-75 corridor for workforce training, talent development, innovation, automation, systems integration and supply chain management.

Dr. Somerville also sits on a state-wide Ohio Semiconductor Collaboration Network Steering Committee, a group focused on fine-tuning training programs in response to the needs of the new Intel computer chip plant in central Ohio.

In all, GM contributed $600,000 to seven community colleges nationally. The American Association of Community Colleges administered the grant funds, which were distributed to community colleges near GM facilities. Besides Owens, GM is working with Columbia State Community College, TN; Imperial Valley Community College, CA; Ivy Tech Community College, IN; Johnson County Community College, KS; Lansing Community College, MI and St. Charles Community College, MO.

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. With a commitment to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability, the College serves the diverse academic needs of credit and non-credit students offering more than 70 academic programs, seamless transfer opportunities and short-term training with an emphasis on closing workforce skills gap. For more information, please visit www.owens.edu.

Purchased by GM in 1956, Toledo Propulsion Systems currently builds GM’s six-speed, eight-speed and 10-speed rear-wheel drive and nine-speed front-wheel drive transmissions that are used in a variety of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac products. The facility currently employs approximately 1,500 people.

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is a global company focused on advancing an all-electric future that is inclusive and accessible to all. At the heart of this strategy is the Ultium battery platform, which will power everything from mass-market to high-performance vehicles. General Motors, its subsidiaries and its joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Baojun and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety and security services, can be found at https://www.gm.com.

---

Owens Community College Names 4 Senior Leaders

Posted on January 18th, 2023

Owens Community College has hired four senior leaders who will be responsible for continuing to ensure student success at the premier two-year college in northwest Ohio. The new employees are:

• Blake Renner, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs
• Tasha Hussain Black, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
• Brad Wood, Dean of the Findlay Campus
• Kelle Pack, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the Owens Community College Foundation

“As we’ve worked to fill multiple leadership roles almost simultaneously, it’s been so exciting for me to see how these people will work together, and what we are going to be able to do as a team and as an institution as we move forward,” President Dr. Dione D. Somerville said. “We are bringing in people who have a proven ability to collaborate and a strong desire to build relationships within our organization and with the broader community. These individuals will integrate into our culture while aligning expectations from the ground up. They are here to build upon and expand on our past successes.”

 

Dr. Blake Renner

Vice President, Enrollment Management and Student Affairs

A higher education leader, educator and researcher, Dr. Renner has focused his efforts on eliminating barriers and creating equitable learning environments to enable students to realize their academic potential. For the past 11 years at Franklin University, he has worked on expanding services and providing direct support for students both within and outside the classroom. As the Dean of Students, his primary responsibilities included student affairs, enrollment management, policy and procedure development and student retention efforts.

His educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Malone University, a master’s degree in Counseling from West Virginia University, a master’s degree in Secondary Education from West Virginia University, and a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership Studies from West Virginia University.

 

Tasha Hussain Black

Executive Director, Strategic Marketing and Communications

A high performing and innovating marketing executive with extensive connections to the community, Hussain Black possesses more than 25 years of marketing and communication experience. She spent 10 years as Vice President of Marketing at the Andersons, Inc., where she was a member of the executive leadership team responsible for $1 billion in revenue, 100 locations and 1,000 employees. She also served in marketing and sales leadership roles at the United Way of Greater Toledo and Image Group.

A member of the board of directors at the Islamic Food Bank of Toledo and WGTE Public Media, Hussain Black has a bachelor’s degree in English from Bowling Green State University and an MBA from the University of Toledo. She is an adjunct professor in the BGSU College of Business.

 

Brad Wood

Dean, Findlay Campus

Wood previously served as Chair of the Owens Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program in the Owens School of Nursing and Health Professions, where he worked the past seven years. He was a member of the Owens Findlay Task Force that was charged with making data-informed recommendations about academic programming changes on the campus, which included the successful implementation of the PTA program in Fall 2022.

A community college graduate, Wood earned his associate degree in PTA from St. Petersburg College. He graduated from Nova Southeastern University with his bachelor’s in Health Science and master’s in Teaching and Learning. He serves on the State of Ohio Physical Therapy Association advisory board and is national commissioner for CAPTE Commission of Accreditation for Physical Therapy Education and president of the Northwest Ohio Clinical Coordinator Consortium.

 

Kelle Pack

Vice President, Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the Owens Community College Foundation

As a seasoned professional supporting strategic missions, Pack served as the President of McLaren St. Luke’s Foundation in Maumee since 2016.  Pack began her career in philanthropy with the University of Toledo in 1992 and held multiple positions with the University of Toledo, the Toledo Area Humane Society and St. Luke’s Hospital. She graduated from the University of Toledo with a bachelor’s degree in Communication.

She is an active member of the Rotary Club of Maumee and serves on the Board of Directors of the Maumee Chamber of Commerce. Other past board and committee experience include Healthy Lucas County, Connecting Kids to Meals, Anthony Wayne Education Foundation and the Toledo Area Planned Giving Council.

 

Owens Community College has served Northwest Ohio since 1965 as an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education with an open-access admission policy. With a commitment to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability, Owens serves the diverse academic needs of credit and non-credit students offering more than 70 academic programs, seamless transfer opportunities and short-term training with an emphasis on closing the workforce skills gap. For more information, please visit www.owens.edu.

---

2 Student Broadcast Programs Nominated for Intercollegiate Broadcast System Awards

Posted on January 11th, 2023

Two Owens Community College student broadcast programs have been nominated for Intercollegiate Broadcast System (IBS) awards. The awards are presented to students, faculty and staff of colleges and high schools from around the world. Owens Community College competes with 2-year and 4-year colleges for the awards.

In the category “Best Specialty Music Show,” Randomosity – Fall into Classics with Michael Jackson from September 29, 2022 received a nomination. The show is hosted by Joe Smith aka Dr. Jay Thomas. Smith is a part-time student currently enrolled in the Broadcast Media Technology program.

The Owens Outcomm Student Media Center was nominated for “Best News Report” for its coverage of the Owens Library Move on May 12. Students from the Spring 2022 Broadcast Media Technology 111 Media Writing class were nominated, consisting of Austin Crawford’s writing and reporting with the production team of Lucas Roach, Caleb Brewer, Corey Leszczynski, Jeremy Scheur and Nick Finkbeiner.

“The IBS awards shine a huge light on the Broadcast Media Technology and Music Business Technology programs here at Owens Community College and lets students know we are a very capable and fast-growing program that will allow them to pursue a career in broadcast media or media in general,” said Herbey Atkinson, OCCR Station Manager and Program Director. He said it’s gratifying to see all the hard work pay off, especially as a 2-year program competing with 4-year schools with more resources.

Last year, three Owens Radio students won top prize and three additional students received nominations in the IBS awards. This year’s winners will be announced at the IBS conference in New York City in February.

---