News Releases

61 High School Graduates Begin Educational Journey Through Owens’ Free Summer Bridge Program, June 11-12

Posted on June 7th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Sixty-one area high school graduates from public and private high schools, as well as career centers, within the College’s legal district will have the opportunity to experience a taste of college life for free prior to the beginning of their first Fall Semester at Owens Community College as the academic institution announces the 2012 Bridge to Success Program student class on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The free program is designed to help first-year students successfully transition from high school to college.

Owens’ summer program begins with Bridge to Success Kick-Off Celebrations from 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 11 and 12 on the College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The kick-off event will take place on Monday, June 11 in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 123 and 125 on the Toledo-area Campus, while kick-off festivities will occur on Tuesday, June 12 in the Conference Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus.

Both events will begin with opening remarks, introductions and a keynote address from 9-9:50 a.m. Attendees will also engage in a variety of activities, as well as hear from Owens representatives and Bridge to Success Program staff and peer advocates from 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. The event will conclude with a Bridge to Success Program induction ceremony at 1:30 p.m. for participating students. Forty-four students are participating in the Bridge to Success Program on the Toledo-area Campus, while 17 students are engaged in the free educational outreach initiative on the Findlay-area Campus.

This marks the first year that the program has been made available to all students within the College’s legal district, which encompasses Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties and parts of Ottawa and Sandusky counties. Previously, the program was offered to only high schools associated with the College’s Success Program initiative.

Owens’ seven-week comprehensive summer program features an array of academic initiatives, including academic preparation, exposure to campus life, mentoring, coaching and embracing the expectations of college-level studies. Additionally, Bridge to Success Program participants have the opportunity to participate in several academic workshops designed to promote enhanced learning and develop necessary study and life skills for college success. Students also learn and obtain an in-depth understanding of the language, culture and resources of Owens through participation in the College’s First Year Experience “Bootcamp” class and in mathematics, reading, writing and computer seminars and workshops.

In addition, each attendee is provided with a faculty, staff or Bridge peer mentor during the seven-week academic program and through the first year of their college experience. Students receive free academic textbooks and become part of a learning community with block scheduling for the first year of college with a focus on math and English courses.

In order to be eligible for the Bridge to Success Program, prospective students must be high school graduates within the last academic year and have passed all parts of the Ohio Graduation Test unless there was an exemption. Students do not need to be federal Pell grant funding eligible for participation in the Bridge to Success Program. Over 200 students have participated in Bridge to Success since the program was established in 2008.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as at the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Assists School ChildrenWith ‘Backpack to the Future’ Summer Supply Drive

Posted on May 24th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – As another school year comes to an end, many students are once again placing their backpacks in storage or are discarding them entirely in anticipation of buying next fall’s latest fashion trend. Owens Community College’s Alumni Association has taken the initiative of once again organizing a gently-used backpack drive to provide new life for what many students consider their mobile lifeline to learning.

The College’s Alumni Association community service endeavor, titled “Backpack to the Future,” is currently accepting gently-used or new backpacks and new school supplies from area residents during the summer months. Items collected, as part of the “Backpack to the Future” program, will be given to low-income elementary school children throughout Northwest Ohio.

“There are many low-income families that can barely afford to pay their bills, and may not be able to provide their children with new supplies. The Owens Community College Alumni Association’s goal is to ensure that such occurrences do not happen and that all children begin their school year with new educational resources,” said Kaye Koevenig, Owens Community Service Chair of the Alumni Association.

In addition to the gently-used backpacks and new backpacks, individuals can donate crayons, markers, bottles of glue, glue sticks, colored pencils, pencils, pink erasers, school boxes, pocket folders, marbled covered composition books and Kleenex tissues. Area residents can bring their charitable donations to the Office of Alumni Relations on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township and the Education Center Atrium on the Findlay-area Campus in Findlay.

Since establishing the program in 2004, the Owens Alumni Association has given 2,356 backpacks and 42,661 school supplies to benefit disadvantaged children throughout Northwest Ohio.

Since opening its doors in 1965, Owens has provided higher education to more than 250,000 students. Owens’ Alumni Association is committed to the personal and professional success of alumni and students through the ongoing development of value-added initiatives.

For more information about the school supply drive, or to make a donation, contact the Owens Alumni Relations Office at (567) 661-7876, 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7876 or alumni@owens.edu.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Announces New Free ‘O-Start’ College Preparation Workshop, June 11-14

Posted on May 24th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Current juniors and recent graduates of Putnam County high schools are invited to explore career options and gain advice on making the first steps toward a college education to any college or university as Owens Community College presents a new free “O-Start” College Preparation Workshop, June 11-14.

The free four-day workshop is being presented in partnership with the Putnam County Educational Service Center and will take place from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday (June 11-14) in the Education Center Rooms 134 and 137 on the College’s Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

Participants will receive a free USB flash drive and lanyard, a $40 gas card, a binder of college information and a Kindle Touch at the workshop’s conclusion. Lunch will be provided for free to attendees each day.

Owens’ “O-Start” classes will feature four different education, life and career specific days. Themes will include “Getting Started with College”, “Life/Work Balance”, “Aptitudes and Careers” and “Planning Ahead”. Workshop participants will engage in activities designed to promote enhanced learning and develop necessary study and life skills for college success and beyond. Individuals will also learn about stress management, community involvement, service learning, life planning, money management, and shadowing and internships, as well as receive information specific to the financial aid process, scholarships and academic placement testing.

Additionally, several guest speakers and current college students will provide educational presentations and panel discussions as part of the college preparation workshop. Individuals interested in the educational workshop must register prior to the first day of classes and enrollment is limited to the first 25 students.

For more information about the workshop, or to register, call (567) 429-3074 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3074, or (567) 429-3656 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3656.

Owens Community College Closed Memorial Day, May 28

Posted on May 22nd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, will be closed on Monday, May 28 for the Memorial Day holiday. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed for business.

Classes will resume and administrative offices will open again on Tuesday, May 29.

High Schools Showcase Talents During Statewide Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills Contest at Owens

Posted on May 10th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Twenty high school students from across Ohio recently put their knowledge of automobiles to the test as they competed in the 63rd annual Ford/AAA Auto Skills State Competition at Owens Community College.

Sponsored by the Ford Motor Co. and AAA, the state contest involved 10 high school teams, consisting of two students, completing various testing to determine their expertise of automobiles. As part of the practical skills competition, teams were required to locate, identify and repair malfunctions on new 2012 Ford Fusion vehicles, which were donated by the Hertz Corp. Once the vehicle was properly diagnosed and repaired, the each team drove across the finish line, where the vehicle was inspected by judges, comprised of automotive industry professionals.

The top teams were awarded scholarships and prizes with the championship team also advancing to the National Finals at the Ford Motor Co. in Dearborn, Mich., June 10-12.

The state championship went to Trumbull Career and Technical Center in Warren (Liki Turner of Warren and Robert Strohmeyer of Brookfield), while Apollo Career Center in Lima (Sebastian Moneer of Spencerville and Zach Cozadd of Bluffton) finished in second place.

Other high schools and students participating in the state competition and their order of finish were Sentinel Career and Technology Center in Tiffin (Ricardo Galvan of Fostoria and Brandon Seasly of Republic), EHOVE Career Center in Milan (Roy Hinckley of Wakeman and Nathan Summers of Wakeman), Tolles Career and Technical Center in Plain City (Samuel Ford of Columbus and Justin Reisinger of West Jefferson), Fairfield Career Center in Carroll (Tyler Milisits of Sugar Grove and Jake Kidd of Carroll), Miami Valley Career Technology Center in Clayton (Heath Harstine of West Milton and Joseph Anderson of Englewood), Whitmer Career and Technology Center in Toledo (Josiah Meiring of Toledo and Michael Stockdale of Toledo), Valley Forge High School in Parma Heights (Vitaliy Reshetnyak of Parma Heights and Kamil Falkowski of Parma Heights) and Coshocton County Career Center in Coshocton (Jerry Berry of Coshocton and Ben Modesitt of Frazeysburg).

Over 12,000 students from across the United States annually compete for the chance to represent their school and state in the National Finals. The Ford/AAA Auto Skills State Competitions will offer nearly $12 million in scholarships this year to students at both the state and national levels.

This marks the third time (2003 and 2004) that Owens has served as host site for the state competition.

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Owens Dental Hygiene Faculty and Students to Help Chimbote Residents During Peru Study and Service Abroad Program, May 15-25

Posted on May 10th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – A group of Owens Community College Dental Hygiene Program faculty and recent graduates will have the opportunity to impact the lives of residents in Chimbote, Peru through volunteer efforts as they participate in the academic institution’s first Peru Study and Service Abroad Program, May 15-25.

Owens recent graduates of the Dental Hygiene Program participating in the international service learning experience are Rachael Kline of New London, Jaclyn Niese of Leipsic and Jordan Hoppe of Green Springs. Owens Dental Hygiene Program faculty accompanying the recent graduates to Peru are Associate Professor of Dental Hygiene Susan Wannemacher of Toledo and Adjunct Instructor of Dental Hygiene Vielka Cover of Monclova.

“I’ve always wanted to go on a service learning trip,” said Owens dental hygiene graduate Rachael Kline. “I really enjoy helping people and this is an opportunity to help people who are truly in need.”

For Owens recent graduate in dental hygiene Jaclyn Niese, the trip to Chimbote provides a unique chance to open her horizons to a different lifestyle.

“I have never been to South America,” explained Niese. “I am really looking forward to the chance to share my world and experiences with the Chimbote people and at the same time learn from them.”

Coordinated by the College’s Office of International Programs and Services through a partnership with Community College for International Development and the organization’s Troika Study Abroad Programs, the Owens group will arrive in Chimbote on Tuesday, May 15. During their 11 days in the impoverished city of Chimbote, Owens participants will have the opportunity to learn about social, economic and other aspects of life in the city and its surrounding neighborhoods as well as engage in a variety of cultural and custom-specific activities with the local residents.

Owens recent graduates and faculty members will also volunteer their time at several local shelters, clinics and agencies during their visit to Peru. Volunteer activities will include working in soup kitchens and daycare centers as well as providing dental education outreach for Chimbote residents.

In addition, Owens representatives will have the opportunity to explore the culture and history specific to different regions of Peru during visits to Lima and Trujillo.

Owens representatives will share their service and educational learning experience in Chimbote with faculty and students from partnering American community colleges, including Davidson County Community College in Lexington, N.C. and Roane State Community College in Harriman, Tenn.

Group members are expected to return to Northwest Ohio and Owens Community College on Friday, May 25.

In addition to the study and service learning abroad initiative, Owens’ Office of International Programs and Services provides educational opportunities to international students. Over 90 students from 26 countries are pursuing a higher education at Owens. Countries represented in Owens’ international student enrollment are Kenya, Egypt, China, India, Venezuela, Brazil, Columbia, Serbia and Saudi Arabia, among others.

Owens Students to Pursue Global Education During China Study Tour Program, May 10-24

Posted on May 4th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – A group of Owens Community College students will have the unique opportunity to spend two weeks exploring life as well as learning about the cultures and customs of another country as they participate in the academic institution’s China Study Tour Program.

According to Owens Director of International Programs and Services Deborah Gavlik, the goal of the China Study Tour Program is to allow our students to immerse themselves in another country’s way of life.

“We are living in a global economy and community,” said Gavlik. “It is important that students have opportunities to become engaged from a global perspective, learning and exchanging experiences with people from other counties. Owens Community College is pleased to offer such a unique educational opportunity for our students.”

Owens students participating in the international experience are Darlene Vanderoff of Findlay, Haley Stuart of Perrysburg, Zackery Doane of Bowling Green, Nicholas Gordon of Payne, Amanda Sheeks of Bowling Green, Matthew Kovacs of Perrysburg and Heather Baum of Weston. Also accompanying the students to China is Owens International Programs and Services Director Deborah Gavilik of Perrysburg.

Coordinated by the College’s Office of International Programs and Services, Owens students will arrive in Ningbo, China on Thursday, May 10. During their first week in China, students will attend language, history and culture classes and engage in several cultural activities at Ningbo Polytechnic, which is a vocational college located in Ningbo. Owens students will also have the opportunity to interact with Chinese students at the college and share their own American cultural experiences with the Ningbo Polytechnic students.

The second week of the China Study Tour Program will entail travels to Beijing, Shaghai, Hangzhou and Wuzhen. The group will visit such sites as the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.

Additionally, this marks Kovacs second trip to China as part of the study tour program. He will spend both weeks at Ningbo Polytechnic assisting with English classes as part of an internship.

To prepare for the experience, the China Study Tour Program students recently participated in a study abroad preparation course to familiarize themselves with China’s origins as well as gain insight into the culture and history.

Group members are expected to return to Northwest Ohio and Owens Community College on Thursday, May 24.

This marks the second time that a group of students has visited China as part of the College’s international partnership with Ningbo Polytechnic. In May 2011, nine Owens students had the opportunity to travel to China to participate in the College’s first China Study Tour Program.

In addition to the study abroad initiative, Owens’ Office of International Programs and Services provides educational opportunities to international students. Over 90 students from 26 countries are pursuing a higher education at Owens. Countries represented in Owens’ international student enrollment are Kenya, Egypt, China, India, Venezuela, Brazil, Columbia, Serbia and Saudi Arabia, among others

803 Owens Community College Students to Graduate During Spring Commencement, May 4

Posted on April 26th, 2012

Andrea Price

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Eight hundred three candidates for graduation, including 165 from the Findlay-area Campus, will receive their degrees during the 46th annual Owens Community College Spring Commencement on Friday, May 4. The commencement will begin at 7 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the College’s Toledo-area Campus.

Andrea Price, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mercy, Northern Region, will serve as the keynote speaker for the College’s Spring Commencement. Owens’ commencement ceremony is free and open to the public.

Mercy, Northern Region, is the largest of its parent company, Catholic Health Partners, Cincinnati. Price joined Mercy in the fall of 2009 as Chief Operating Officer, at which time she assumed responsibility for the operations and performance of Mercy’s seven hospitals. One year later, she was promoted to lead the organization.

Previously, Price was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Sparrow Health System in Lansing, Mich., where she was responsible for the strategic direction of the system, which included Sparrow Hospital’s two Lansing campuses, as well as hospitals in St. Johns, Carson City and Ionia County. In addition, she was responsible for the daily operations of Sparrow Hospital, a 600-bed level one trauma center. Price also served in senior executive roles at Hurley Medical Center in Flint, Mich., and Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

As a fellow and member in the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), Price has served on the Voluntary Giving Committee, the Confidential Committee, the Board of Governors, the Governance Implementation Task Force, the Regent’s Advisory Council, the Nominating Committee, Regent-at-Large, the Finance Committee, the Governance Ad Hoc Task Force and the Bylaws Committee.

She was appointed by the Mayor of Toledo to the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority Board. She also sits on the boards for the Regional Growth Partnership and Toledo Chamber of Commerce, and is a member of the Rotary Club of Toledo.

In April 2008, Price was selected by “Modern Healthcare” Magazine as one of the Top 25 Minority Executives in Healthcare. In September 2008, she received the ACHE Distinguished Service Award from the American College of Healthcare Executives and the Michigan Healthcare Executive Group and Associates. In October 2008, she received the Distinguished Senior Healthcare Executive Award from the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE).

Price was also the 2010 recipient of the Midwest Healthcare Executives Group and Associates (MHEGA) Regent’s Senior Level Healthcare Executive Award, which recognizes healthcare executives with more than 20 years of healthcare experience for their significant contributions toward the achievement of the goals of the ACHE and the advancement of healthcare management excellence. In addition to serving as a board member for MHEGA, she is the National President for the National Association of Health Services Executives, a non-profit designed to advance and develop black healthcare leaders and elevate the quality of healthcare services rendered to minority and underserved communities.

She received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree in health administration from Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. She and her husband, Dr. Edward Johnson, have four children.

Loral Browning, known as Mike to his friends and family, has been selected as the Owens class representative and will address the graduates during the Spring Commencement ceremony.

The Toledo resident is earning his associate’s degree in marketing and sales technology with a financial services sales option. Prior to enrolling at Owens, Browning was employed in the food industry as a distributor for 38 years. He never missed a paycheck until 2010, when he lost his job.

Loral Browning

“After working in business for so long, I thought I had nothing left to learn,” explained the 57-year-old Browning. “I soon realized that I would be learning new things every day.”

In addition to the honor of being chosen to address the graduating class, Browning, a 1971 Start High School graduate, achieved a 3.8 grade point average and is a member of the Kappa Beta Delta and Chi Alpha Epsilon national honor societies. He also served as a student representative of Owens on an international study tour to China in May 2011.

He credits his success to the support and encouragement of the faculty and staff at Owens, including Holly Burnside, Jeffrey Hardesty and Ramadevi Kannan. The support of his family was also a critical part of his educational success, including his wife, Donna, who pushed him to make sure his homework was finished, and his sons, Michael, Brian, Chad and Chris.

When Browning, who also is a grandfather, began his studies at Owens, he thought his educational path would end with an associate’s degree. He soon found that Owens and a college education was much more than he ever envisioned and that he was excited about the possibility of learning something new every day.

As a result, Browning intends on continuing his studies after graduation and transferring to a four-year institution to continue working toward his bachelor’s degree in business. Ultimately, his goal is to work within the areas of sales or management.

Owens Community College Announces Summer Bridge to Success Program Expansion

Posted on April 2nd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Any area high school graduates from public and private high schools, as well as career centers, within the College’s legal district will have the opportunity to experience a taste of college life for free prior to the beginning of their first Fall Semester at Owens Community College as the academic institution announces the expansion of the Bridge to Success Program. The free program is designed to help first-year students successfully transition from high school to college.

“Owens Community College is proud to expand the Bridge to Success Program and offer even more educational opportunities to students throughout Northwest Ohio,” said Jacquelyn Jones, Owens Manager of Bridge to Success. “The Bridge to Success Program was created to help students strengthen their skills, build their confidence and get off to a successful start as they enter college. We look forward to helping more students in their educational and career pursuits.”

In order to be eligible for the Bridge to Success Program, prospective students must be high school graduates within the last academic year and have passed all parts of the Ohio Graduation Test unless there was an exemption. Individuals must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by April 30 and complete the Bridge to Success Program application by May 4. Students do not need to be federal Pell grant funding eligible for participation in the Bridge to Success Program.

Enrollment in the program is limited to 50 students on the Toledo-area Campus and 25 students on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ Bridge to Success Program begins in June with an orientation and an induction ceremony for the participating students. Over 200 students have participated in Bridge to Success since the program was established in 2008.

Owens will host two open houses for those individuals interested in learning more about the program. The Bridge Open House on the Toledo-area Campus will take place May 1 from 6-9 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center Room 124, while the Bridge Open House on the Findlay-area Campus will occur May 2 from 6-9 p.m. in Room 173. Attendees must RSVP by April 20.

For more information about the Bridge to Success Program and the upcoming open house events, call (567) 661-2170 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2170.

Lake Local Schools Honors Owens Community College With Community Service Award

Posted on March 22nd, 2012

Lake Local Schools and Owens Community College officials pose for a photo after the community service award ceremony and presentation at the College's Student Health and Activities Center.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Lake Local Schools recently honored Owens Community College for the academic institution’s overwhelming generosity shown to the school district in the aftermath of tornados that damaged or destroyed their educational facilities in June 2010. Owens officials were recognized during a Lake High School boys basketball game at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center.

Representatives from Owens were presented with Lake spirit clothing as well as a plaque that read following: “In recognition for the overwhelming generosity shown to the Lake Local School District in its time of need we present this plaque thanking all of you for your efforts during the rebuilding period of Lake High School. Words cannot begin to describe our appreciation and we will never be able to thank you enough. From the students, staff and community of Lake Schools, thank you Owens Community College for being great neighbors.”

In June 2010, Owens and Lake Local Schools entered into a new partnership that has provided the school district with a temporary home for Lake High School staff and students as a result of their educational facilities being damaged or destroyed by the tornados that devastated the Northwest Ohio region. Lake High School students in grades 9-12 have received their classroom instruction at the College’s Center for Development and Training building, which is located on Tracy Road in Northwood, during the last two school years.

Additional collaborative efforts included the Lake High School graduating class of 2010 being honored for achieving academic excellence and receiving their diplomas at Owens Community College as the academic institution served as host to Lake Local Schools’ commencement ceremony. The College’s Student Health and Activities Center also served as the home athletic venue for the Lake High School Flyers’ boys and girls basketball teams during the 2010-11 and 2011-12 seasons, among many other outreach efforts.

Owens Community College Announces New Procurement Technical Assistance Center at Arrowhead Park Learning Center

Posted on March 15th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has been selected by the Ohio Department of Development to serve as the new home for the Procurement Technical Assistance Center in the Northwest Ohio region. The new center will be located at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee.

The Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTAC) of Ohio is part of a statewide network of counseling offices that are dedicated to providing free services and resources to businesses interested in selling their products and services to federal, state and local government agencies. The overall mission of the organization is to provide education, training and consultation to businesses throughout the region.

“Owens Community College is proud to collaborate with the Ohio Department of Development and expand our educational services and resources within the local business community through the new Procurement Technical Assistance Center,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Associate Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “The Procurement Technical Assistance Center is committed to helping businesses succeed, which ultimately further enhances and supports our region’s economic growth and development.”

The program is part of a nationwide network of Procurement Technical Assistance Centers created by the U.S. Department of Defense. In Ohio, the Ohio Department of Development serves as host to the statewide program, which is supported by a number of community-based organizations serving local businesses.

The Procurement Technical Assistance Centers are located throughout Ohio and provide a variety of services, which include bid preparation assistance, bid-matching services, military specifications, one-on-training, product and procurement histories, help with information resources and trade events where Ohio firms can meet government buyers. Ohio businesses that are interested in expanding their product and service markets to local, state and federal governmental agencies are eligible for the program. All services are provided at no cost to Ohio businesses.

Owens’ Procurement Technical Assistance Center will provide service to 15 counties throughout Northwest Ohio, including Defiance, Fulton, Erie, Hancock, Huron, Henry, Lucas, Ottawa, Paulding, Putnam, Sandusky, Seneca, Williams, Wood and Van Wert counties.

For more information about the Procurement Technical Assistance Center’s services at the Owens Arrowhead Park Learning Center, call (567) 661-7717 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7717.

Owens Board of Trustees Names Dr. Mike Bower President

Posted on March 13th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Board of Trustees has concluded its presidential search and selected Dr. Mike Bower to serve as the academic institution’s new President.

The Board of Trustees unanimously approved Bower’s appointment as the sixth President in the 47-year history of Owens Community College during their board meeting. Both the Board of Trustees and Bower have agreed to a three-year contract. Bower will formally assume his new presidential responsibilities July 1.

“I am pleased to announce and proud to welcome Dr. Mike Bower as the new President of Owens Community College,” said Dee Talmage, Chair of the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. “Dr. Bower is highly respected among the higher education community nationwide and brings to Owens Community College and the Northwest Ohio region a strong background and extensive experience as an academic leader. Most of all, he leads with his core value of how can we best benefit the students. He is the right person to lead this academic institution and build on the College’s longstanding commitment to serving our students and the surrounding communities through excellence, innovation and collaboration.”

“I have been blessed with supporting people throughout my life to help others succeed,” said Bower. “When I researched Owens Community College for the presidential search, I could sense such support by viewing AQIP projects, the student newspaper, the Board of Trustees meeting minutes and other meeting documents. Owens Community College has dedicated teams that value student learning and I am very excited to be selected to serve these teams.”

Bower brings to Owens more than 17 years of experience in higher education as a faculty member and administrator in North Dakota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Nebraska and Indiana. He also spent more than 19 years working in various leadership positions of business and industry with Ford Motor Co. and Thomson Consumer Electrics (formerly RCA) in Indiana and Ohio.

Since July 2008, Bower, age 62, has served as the President of Lake Region State College in Devils Lake, N.D. Lake Region State College is a student-centered, open access, comprehensive community college within the North Dakota University System. The college is committed to providing quality academic education, vocational/technical training, workforce training, educational outreach opportunities and life-long learning with an enrollment of approximately 3,000 students.

Under his leadership, Lake Region State has expanded educational opportunities in a number of academic areas with the overall goal of enhancing student learning and community economic success, highlighted by securing state funding of $2.6 million for a 1.6 G.E. megawatt wind turbine to support the green initiative and provide current technology for the wind technician program. He also testified for appropriated dollars in the amount of $4.6 million for the technology center expansion and renovation for nursing, optimized agriculture, simulator electronics, automotive and wind programs. New innovative academic programs and hand-on learning resources unveiled within the last several years include wind energy technician, fitness trainer technician, nursing, American Sign Language and interpretive studies, and simulator technology.

His advocacy for higher education also includes reaching out and engaging community and educational partners through the academic institution’s Community College Foundation as well as through legislative support and strategic planning specific to local and regional community support to the college for student learning and career success.

Previously, Bower served as Executive Dean for Extension Campuses/Continuing Education/Corporate Services at Mott Community College in Flint, Mich. from 2004-08 where he provided leadership and oversight for the day-to-day operations of five divisions, which included Lapeer Campus, Southern Lakes Campus, Northern Tier Campus, Continuing Education and the Livingston County Regional Michigan Technical Education Center. He also oversaw the University Center that houses such academic institutions as Michigan State University, Eastern Michigan University, Ferris State University, Wayne State University and Rochester College.

Prior to Mott Community College, Bower served as Campus Dean of Chippewa Falls at Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Clair, Wis. from 2001-03 and held several academic leadership positions at Central Community College in Columbus, Neb. from 1997-2001. His professional background also includes serving as an Instructor at Ivy Tech State College and an Adjunct Instructor at Indiana University Kokomo, both located in Kokomo, Ind.

Bower’s board-level professional and community involvement includes serving on the American Association of Community Colleges Economic/Workforce Commission, the American Association of Community Colleges Framework for Accountability, the North Dakota School for the Deaf Board, the Lake Region Forward Devils Lake (Economic Development) and the Lake Region Chamber of Commerce, among many others. He also serves as a Higher Learning Commission Peer Review Corps Consultant-Evaluator.

President Bower earned a doctorate in education administration, curriculum and instruction from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The Devils Lake, N.D. resident holds a master of business administration from Indiana Wesleyan University, a bachelor’s degree in industrial supervision from Indiana State University and an associate’s degree in automotive technology from Vincennes University.

Last year, the Board of Trustees announced that a national search for the new President of Owens Community College was underway to succeed Dr. Larry McDougle, who retired Sept. 30. John Satkowski, Vice President of Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer, has served as the College’s Interim President since the beginning of October. The presidential search process was led by Owens Board of Trustees Chair Dee Talmage, who served as Chair of the Presidential Search Committee.

The Board of Trustees enlisted the professional services of the global firm Heidrick & Struggles International Inc. to assist in conducting the presidential search. Heidrick & Struggles has a long and storied history of conducting searches nationwide as well as extensive experience in higher education.

Owens Community College Unveils New Career Closet Program, March 15

Posted on March 8th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College is reaching out to its students who are preparing to enter the workforce by announcing the establishment of the academic institution’s first Career Closet initiative on the Toledo-area Campus. The new Career Closet is designed to provide students with career advice and resource as well as free professional and business casual attire appropriate for job fairs, job interviews and the workplace.

Coordinated by the Owens Leadership Academy team Explorers, the new Career Closet will be available to students for the first time as part of an open house event from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 15. The new Career Closet is located within the College’s new Owens Harvest Food Pantry in Heritage Hall Room 109 on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. The open house is free and open to the public.

“Owens Community College is proud to announce the new Owens Career Closet outreach program for our students,” said Anne Fulkerson, Owens Enrollment and Retention Research Associate and Owens Leadership Academy Explorers team member. “The initiative is intended to help Owens students look their best and have the confidence they need to make a lasting positive impression and be successful as they begin their professional careers.”

Fulkerson added, “Similar to the Owens Harvest Food Pantries initiative, the new Owens Career Closet provides an outlet for Owens employees and community members to give back to those students in need through professional clothing attire donation efforts. The new Owens Career Closet will continuously be accepting men’s and women’s professional attire.”

In addition to Fulkerson, other Owens Leadership Academy Explores team members include Lorena Baird and David Halsey.

Following the open house, the Owens Career Closet will be open to all Owens students on Tuesdays in conjunction with the Owens Harvest Food Pantry from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on the Toledo-area Campus. The Owens Career Closet features suits, jackets/blazers, professional shirts/blouses/sweaters, slacks, skirts, professional dresses, ties, belts, briefcases, portfolios, purses and shoes, among other attire. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to pick up an array of career-specific resources courtesy of the College’s Office of Career Services. Students will need to show valid Owens identification to utilize the services.

Earlier this year, Owens, with the support of the Toledo Seagate Food Bank, announced plans for the academic institution’s first Owens Harvest Food Pantries on the College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The new Owens Harvest Food Pantries are designed to provide students with free non-perishable food resources as well as various service learning opportunities.

In addition to providing donations to the students, Owens’ Harvest Food Pantries are designed to build upon the College’s culture of philanthropy and service on the campuses by creating new collaborative learning opportunities for students in various academic departments and disciplines. The two Owens Harvest Food Pantries feature a healthy nutritional balance of non-perishable food items such as proteins, starches, fruits and vegetables.

For those individuals and/or community organizations interested in donating to the new Owens Career Closet initiative, call (567) 661-2275 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2275.

Local Schools Showcase Talents at Owens Tractor Troubleshooting Contest

Posted on February 29th, 2012

Elmwood High School students (L to R) Casey Heller of Bloomdale and Jon Shinew of Rudolph test their repair skills at Owens' annual tractor troubleshooting contest.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Eleven area high schools put their knowledge of tractors to the test Friday during competition in the 19th annual FFA District I Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics Contest at Owens Community College.

Presented by the College’s Transportation Technologies, the contest involved high school teams, consisting of two students, completing various testing to determine their expertise of tractors. As part of the practical skills competition, teams were required to locate, identify and repair a malfunction on a specified tractor donated for the event.

A panel of 10 judges, comprising industry representatives and Owens Transportation Technologies faculty, graded each high school in the areas of workmanship as a team, safety practices, problem-solving techniques and identification, and repair of malfunctions to determine a district champion. Additionally, students within the College’s Transportation Technologies assisted with the competition.

“I am very proud of the area high school teams and the effort that they put forth during this year’s competition,” said Nick Shultz, Owens Instructor of Transportation Technologies and event coordinator. “The Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostic Contest is extremely challenging and provides students with the opportunity to showcase their level of knowledge and expertise at the highest level in a realistic setting. On behalf of Owens Community College, I would like to thank the various community partners who assisted in making this event a reality for the participating students.”

The district championship went to Matt Haar and Hunter Haar, both of Elmore, from Woodmore High School, with a score of 254. They were accompanied by their teacher, Adam Downs.

Students from two career centers tied for second with scores of 232: Four County’s Quintin Keefer and Nathan Seiler, both of Fayette; accompanied by their teacher, Larry Wieland; and Penta’s Bryan Schaller of Perrysburg and Shane Streib of Whitehouse, accompanied by their teacher, Steve Schumm.

Other students and high schools involved in the competition and their order of finish were: Pettisville’s Dexter Aeshleman and Nathan Betz, both of Wauseon; accompanied by their teacher, John Poulson, fourth place; Elmwood’s Casey Heller of Bloomdale and Jon Shinew of Rudolph, accompanied by teacher Ed Feasel, fifth place; Bowling Green’s Henry Apple and Thomas Foos, both of Bowling Green; accompanied by their teacher, Mike Shertzer, sixth place; Eastwood’s Bryan Cafka and Adam Wolf, both of Luckey; accompanied by their teacher, David Little, seventh place; Otsego’s Bill Potter and Poke Harrison, both of Grand Rapids; accompanied by their teacher, Debbie Ayers, eighth place; Genoa’s Michael Clark and Trevor McLear, both of Genoa; accompanied by their teacher, David Stacklin, ninth place; and Ayersville’s Kody Shreve and Gage Odom, both of Ayersville, accompanied by their teacher, Don Hammersmith, 10th place.

Delta’s Nathan Brehm and Scott McDonnall, both of Delta, also competed in the contest, but did not complete all the rounds. They were accompanied by their teacher, Randy Crowl.

Local businesses donating tractors for the competition were Streacker Tractor Sales, Crosby Equipment, Eagle Machinery Inc., Caterpillar Inc., John Deere and Owens Community College.

Owens’ Diesel Technology program offers students the opportunity to pursue either an associate degree or a certificate while preparing them for careers in operations, maintenance, service, testing, diagnosis and development of truck and heavy equipment. Students interested in a career as a professional agricultural equipment service technician can pursue an associate degree through the College’s John Deere Agricultural Technician program. Owens is one of 25 academic institutions in North America, and the only school in Ohio, to offer the John Deere Agricultural Technician program.

Owens Community College Names New Vice President of Human Resources

Posted on February 22nd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has named F. Jack Witt III as the new Vice President of Human Resources. His responsibilities will include overseeing all aspects related to the administrative leadership, coordination and development of initiatives within the academic institution’s Office of Human Resources.

In addition, his new position will entail providing leadership and oversight in labor and employee relations, employment, compensation, benefits, EEO/employee relations, training, progression and succession, quality/planning facilitation, and diversity and inclusion, among other areas.

“Owens Community College is proud to welcome Jack Witt as new Vice President of Human Resources,” said John Satkowski, Interim President of Owens Community College. “Jack brings a visionary approach and extensive knowledge and experience in labor relations, employment law and human resources to the College, gained from his prior positions in higher education, government and at several major corporations. We look forward to his leadership in advancing the level of excellence within the academic institution’s area of human resources.”

Since 2009, Witt has served as the Vice President of Human Resources at Macomb Community College in Warren, Mich. In his position, he served as a senior level executive responsible for the overall leadership of human resources and labor relations for the multi-campus educational organization with over 2,200 faculty and staff employees. His responsibilities also included the review and implementation of policies and procedures concerning recruitment, selection and placement, training and development, organization re-design, and talent/succession practices. Additionally, Witt oversaw the design and administration of job analysis/classification, compensation, human resource information and benefits programs, including health and welfare, and retirement/savings plans.

Under his leadership at Macomb, Witt oversaw the negotiation and drafting of collective bargaining agreements covering nine bargaining units and 2,000 employees, as well as the coordination of labor contract administration, including arbitrations and grievance management.

Previously, Witt held the position of Director of Human Resources for Genesee County from 2005-09 where he provided leadership and oversight of human resource and labor law functions for the government and public service operations of the Michigan county, involving over 2,500 employees. Witt also spent over 25 years working in labor relations, employment law and human resources at several major corporations, including A&P Co., Kmart Corp., Macy’s Inc. and Ford Motor Co. He currently serves as an adjunct faculty member in the Wayne State University School of Business Administration.

The Troy, Mich. resident earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Tulane University and a master’s degree in political science and public administration from Kent State University. Witt also holds a juris doctorate and a master of business administration from Case Western Reserve University. He is admitted to the Ohio Bar, holds a certificate in benefits and compensation management from the International Foundation of Employee Benefits Plans, and is certified as a Professional in Human Resources by the International Public Management Association for Human Resources.

Owens Community College Closed for Mid-Semester Break, March 2-4

Posted on February 22nd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, will be closed Friday-Sunday, March 2-4 for Mid-Semester Break. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed for business.

Administrative offices will be open again on Monday, March 5, while classes will resume on Monday, March 12.

Free Dental Service Brightens Smiles During Nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day at Owens

Posted on February 20th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Oral hygiene, pearly white teeth and smiling faces were abundant at Owens Community College as nearly 100 area children received free dental service courtesy of the Dental Hygiene program as part of the nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day.

Owens’ Dental Hygiene program, in collaboration with the Toledo Dental Society, was among thousands of organizations that provided free dental services and educational outreach for children with limited or no access to care across the country.

For Owens dental hygiene student Rachael Kline of New London, Give Kids A Smile Day provided an opportunity to share her talents and lend a helping hand to those individuals in need of dental care.

“It really feels great to help people in need,” explained Kline, who intends on pursuing a career as a dental hygienist after graduating from Owens. “I love working with children and Give Kids A Smile Day is allowing me to share the knowledge and skills I learned in the classroom with others through volunteerism.”

Give Kids A Smile Day is a national initiative by the American Dental Association, which is dedicated to focusing attention on the epidemic of untreated oral disease among disadvantaged children. Held each February in conjunction with National Children’s Dental Health Month, Give Kids A Smile Day provides free oral health education, screening and treatment services to children from low-income families across the country.

“Give Kids A Smile Day is a wonderful opportunity all around and I would like to say thank you to everyone involved for making this event possible,” said Amanda Bonds of Toledo, whose 11-year-old daughter Alexys attended the event.

Showing off his white teeth with a huge smile, two-year-old Braden Drenning of Wauseon summed up his dental experience in one word “fun”.

Dental services available for free throughout the event included dental education and screening, X-rays, oral prophylaxis (cleanings), limited restorations and dental sealants. In addition, Owens students from the health program provided educational presentations for parents and children.

The College’s Dental Hygiene program provides more than 40 students with a fully accredited, scientifically current and competency-based curriculum annually. Students receive classroom instruction as well as hands-on experience in the Dental Hygiene Clinic, while preparing to sit for the national, state or regional exam in dental hygiene. Owens’ program also offers dental services to area residents through its Dental Hygiene Clinic. The 20-chair clinic is staffed by dental hygiene students and supervised by licensed dental professionals at Owens, and appointments are available during the Fall and Spring semesters for a $30 fee.

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Owens Community College Announces Presidential Finalists Open Forums, Feb. 20-21

Posted on February 17th, 2012

Dr. Mike Bower

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College will welcome the three presidential finalists to the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses as the academic institution announces open forums for the candidates to meet employees, students and members of the community, Feb. 20-21.

The open forums will take place each day (Feb. 20-21) in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus and the Community Education and Wellness Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the College’s Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay. The forums are open to the public.

The three presidential finalists will visit Northwest Ohio on the following days and open forum times: Dr. Mike Bower, President of Lake Region State College in Devils Lake, N.D. on Monday, Feb. 20 from 9-9:45 a.m. (Toledo-area Campus) and 1:30-2:15 p.m. (Findlay-area Campus); Dr. Randall Miller, Senior Consultant to the Chancellor at Wayne County Community College District in Detroit, Mich. on Monday, Feb. 20 from 10:30-11:15 a.m. (Findlay-area Campus) and 1:30-2:15 p.m. (Toledo-area Campus), and Dr. Dorey Diab, Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Stark State College in Canton, Ohio on Tuesday, Feb. 21 from 9-9:45 a.m. (Toledo-area Campus) and 1:30-2:15 p.m. (Findlay-area Campus).

Dr. Randall Miller

“Owens Community College’s Presidential Search Committee and Board of Trustees are pleased to welcome the presidential finalists to Owens Community College and the Northwest Ohio region,” said Dee Talmage, Owens Board of Trustees Chair and Presidential Search Committee Chair. “The community forums are intended to provide both the campus and community with the opportunity to meet the presidential finalists. Both the Presidential Search Committee and the Board of Trustees looks forward to the next phase of the search process with goal of having a new Owens President in place by the end of June.”

Last year, the Board of Trustees announced that a national search for the new President of Owens Community College was underway to succeed Dr. Larry McDougle, who retired Sept. 30. John Satkowski, Vice President of Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer, has served as the College’s Interim President since the beginning of October. The presidential search process is being led by Owens Board of Trustees Chair Dee Talmage, who is serving as Chair of the Presidential Search Committee.

Dr. Dorey Diab

The Board of Trustees has enlisted the professional services of the global firm Heidrick & Struggles International Inc. to assist in conducting the presidential search. Heidrick & Struggles has a long and storied history of conducting searches nationwide as well as extensive experience in higher education.

Owens Alumni Association Accepting Nominations for Outstanding Service Award Celebration Through Feb. 29

Posted on February 10th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is recognizing the tremendous contribution that area police, fire and emergency medical professionals make to Northwest Ohio’s surrounding communities by hosting the ninth annual Outstanding Service Awards. The recipients will be honored as part of a community celebration on Friday, April 27.

The College’s Alumni Association is currently accepting nominations for the Outstanding Service Awards. Area residents are invited to nominate an individual or individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations need to be returned to the College’s Office of Alumni Relations by Wednesday, Feb. 29. The award is not limited to a single recipient, and the College’s Alumni Association encourages the nomination of more than one person when teamwork was the key element in their success.

The five awards, which will be presented at the community celebration, are within the categories of Outstanding Police Officer, Firefighter, Emergency Medical Technician, Service to Community and Community Spirit. Selection criteria will be based upon a nomination process with candidates demonstrating exceptional service related to dedication, ingenuity, bravery, special skills and/or to the community over a sustained period of time. The awards are not limited to a single recipient.

The ninth annual Outstanding Service Awards Celebration will begin at 8 a.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission is free and the public is encouraged to attend, however, reservations are required.

Since opening its doors in 1965, Owens Community College has provided higher education to more than 250,000 students. Owens’ Alumni Association is committed to the personal and professional success of alumni and students through the ongoing development of value-added initiatives.

For more information about the Outstanding Service Award Celebration, or the nomination process, contact the College’s Alumni Relations Office at (567) 661-7410 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7410.

OwensCommunity CollegeBoard of Trustees Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 8th, 2012

Diana H. (Dee) Talmage

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has named Diana H. (Dee) Talmage and H. Richard Rowe to serve as the Chair and Vice Chair for the College’s Board of Trustees. Talmage and Rowe were elected to their positions by their fellow colleagues during the recent Owens Board of Trustees meeting and will serve one-year terms.

Initially appointed in November 2002, Talmage, a retired educator and former school board member, has held several leadership positions at the K-12 and higher education levels. Her professional and community involvement includes membership with the American Red Cross, the Flower Hospital Foundation and TARTA. An Ottawa Hills resident, Talmage received her master’s degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Toledo and a bachelor’s degree in education from The Ohio State University. Additionally, Talmage serves as a board member on the Owens Community College Foundation.

Rowe serves as a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments in Findlay. He attended Bowling Green State University and holds a Series 7 Securities License as well as a Life and Health Insurance License. The Findlay resident served on the College’s Board of Trustees from 2004-10. His professional and community involvement includes the Kiwanis Club of Findlay and the United Way of Hancock County and he served as a City Councilman for 10 years in Findlay. Rowe was reappointed to the College’s Board of Trustees in September 2011.

The College’s Board of Trustees is comprised of seven community leaders from Lucas, Wood, Hancock and Sandusky counties who are appointed by the Governor of Ohio for six-year terms.

H. Richard Rowe

In addition to Talmage and Rowe, Owens Board of Trustees members include David Habegger of Oregon, Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg, R J Molter of Woodville and William E. Takacs of Toledo.

The Grainger Foundation and Owens Foundation Announce $10,000 Donation for Scholarships and Equipment

Posted on January 31st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The Grainger Foundation has donated $10,000 to the Owens Community College Foundation in support of its initiative to further enhance the Alternative Energy and Sustainable Systems Technology Program at Owens Community College. The donation is being used to fund 16 technical education scholarships as well as the purchase of tools and equipment for the program’s new laboratories on the College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

“Owens Community College is delighted to partner with The Grainger Foundation and extend this new scholarship opportunity to our students,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of Fund Development and Executive Director of the Owens Community College Foundation.

According to Randy Wharton, Owens Dean of the School of Technology, the laboratories play a crucial role in supporting the College’s new Alternative Energy and Sustainable Systems Technology Program, providing invaluable hands-on experience to students who intend to embark on a new career in installation and/or maintenance repair of wind turbines, solar cell arrays and a variety of other alternative energy systems.

“Owens Community College’s School of Technology is extremely appreciative to The Grainger Foundation and their commitment to the new Alternative Energy and Sustainable Systems Technology Program,” said Wharton.

This donation was recommended by RobertHoagland, Branch Manager of W.W. Grainger Inc.’s Perrysburg location. Grainger has been a part of the Perrysburg business community for more than 75 years as the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products.

“We are proud to recommend the programs offered by Owens Community College Foundation,” said Hoagland. “We understand the need for strong technical education programs at Owens Community College.”

Last year, Owens continued its own educational investment into the future of alternative and renewable energy in Northwest Ohio by unveiling a new Alternative Energy and Sustainable Systems Technology Associate Degree Program. The degree provides students with the opportunity to receive hands-on experiential learning at the highest level utilizing many of the College’s state-of-the-art academic resources specific to solar thermal power, wind power and photovoltaic power.

The Grainger Foundation, an independent, private foundation based in Lake Forest, Ill., was established in 1949 by William W. Grainger, founder of W.W. Grainger Inc.

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.4 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 31 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Community College Announces Plans for Academic Institution’s First Student Harvest Food Pantries

Posted on January 11th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College, with the support of the Toledo Seagate Food Bank, is reaching out to its students who are in need of help and assistance by announcing the establishment of the academic institution’s first-ever Owens Harvest Food Pantries on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The new Owens Harvest Food Pantries are designed to provide students with free non-perishable food resources as well as various service learning opportunities.

“The Owens Harvest Food Pantries outreach initiative was created to assist our students in need while also offering service and volunteer opportunities for those individuals who want to give back and help their fellow students,” said Krista Kiessling, Owens Coordinator of the Harvest Project. “College students are often balancing several responsibilities in their lives, including financially supporting their families while attending school. Our goal is to alleviate some of those financial concerns for students by utilizing the College’s new Harvest Food Pantry services.”

Kiessling added, “Owens’ Harvest Food Pantries are also designed to build upon the College’s culture of philanthropy and service on our campuses by creating new collaborative learning opportunities for students in various academic departments and disciplines. The experiential learning and service learning possibilities for the new Owens Harvest Food Pantries are endless. Potential opportunities include the business management and marketing of the new pantries, the establishment of a nutritional program for students and the exploration of the sociological impact of poverty and hunger on certain cultural groups. Most importantly, the new Owens Harvest Food Pantries and outreach services would not be possible without the help and support of the Toledo Seagate Food Bank. We are extremely grateful for their generosity.”

The new Owens Harvest Food Pantry will be located in Heritage Hall Room 109 on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township, while the Maintenance/Department of Public Safety Building Room 106 will serve as home to the Owens Harvest Food Pantry on the Findlay-area Campus in Findlay. Both locations will be open to all Owens students on Tuesdays (Owens Harvest Food Pantry on Toledo-area Campus) and on Thursdays (Owens Harvest Food Pantry on Findlay-area Campus) starting in February. Students will need to show a valid Owens identification to utilize the services.

The two Owens Harvest Food Pantries will feature a healthy nutritional balance of non-perishable food items such as proteins, starches, fruits and vegetables.

According to Kiessling, the long-term goal of the Owens Harvest Food Pantries is to expand the services to include a career closet of professional clothing and a hygiene pantry.

The Toledo Seagate Food Bank was founded with the overall mission of eliminating hunger. The non-profit organization provides service to 18 Northwest Ohio counties and distributes over 15 million pounds of food annually to over 500 organizational programs such as food pantries, community resource centers, churches, soup kitchens, senior centers, rehabilitation and low-income housing service agencies.

For those individuals and/or community organizations interested in participating or donating to the new Owens Harvest Food Pantry initiative, call (567) 661-2275 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2275.

Owens Community College Announces ABLE Program Expansion in Bowling Green and Findlay

Posted on January 4th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Office of Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE) is expanding its free academic opportunities available to area residents within the Northwest Ohio region by announcing new educational site locations in Bowling Green and Findlay.

Beginning the week of Jan. 9, adults interested in improving their knowledge and skills in such areas as English, mathematics and reading will be able to attend ABLE classes at Wood County JOBsolutions (1928 E. Gypsy Lane Rd.) in Bowling Green, Hancock County JOBsolutions (7746 County Road 140) in Findlay and Findlay-Hancock County Public Library (206 Broadway) in Findlay.

“Owens Community College is extremely pleased to collaborate with Wood County JOBsolutions, Hancock County JOBsolutions and Findlay-Hancock County Public Library and provide new opportunities to free educational resources,” said Joyce Winters, Owens Director of ABLE and Assistant Director of Student Success. “The benefits of an education are endless and Owens Community College and its many community partners are committed to helping area residents succeed in their educational goals.”

Owens’ ABLE, which is funded by the state of Ohio through the Ohio Board of Regents, is committed to meeting the needs of the surrounding communities by providing an array of enriched learning opportunities and academic resources that include reading, writing, mathematics and basic computer skills. Specific programs available include preparing for post-secondary training and education, reviewing for the COMPASS college assessment, obtaining a GED Diploma, improving employability skills and learning English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), among other academic resources. Owens’ ABLE served over 1,800 adults last year.

The new classes will occur Mondays and Wednesdays from 1-3:30 p.m. at Wood County JOBsolutions, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-11:30 a.m. at Hancock County JOBsolutions, and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3:30 p.m. at Findlay-Hancock County Public Library. Prospective students must first register for orientation prior to attending ABLE classes.

The College offers ABLE classes at multiple locations in Northwest Ohio, including the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township, the Findlay-area Campus in Findlay, the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee, the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, Washington Local Schools in Toledo, The Providence Center in Toledo, The Friendly Center in Toledo, Economic Opportunity Planning Association of Greater Toledo in Toledo, the Lucas County Metropolitan Housing Authority in Toledo, Pilgrim Church in Toledo and at several Toledo-Lucas County Public Library locations.

For more information about Owens’ ABLE classes, call (567) 661-2708 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2708.

Owens Community College Foundation Announces 2012-13 Scholarship Program Opportunities

Posted on January 3rd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The Owens Community College Foundation is investing in Northwest Ohio’s educational future by making available thousands of dollars in scholarship opportunities as part of the academic institution’s 2012-13 Scholarship Program.

Through the generosity of businesses and individuals within the surrounding communities, the Owens Foundation will offer current and future students the opportunity to apply for over 60 available scholarships for the upcoming 2012-13 academic year. Scholarship applicants must complete and return the application to the Oserve Office at any one of the College’s four locations by Feb. 15. Scholarship award notification will begin in March and will continue until all awards have been made.

For scholarships based on financial need, a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application for the 2012-13 academic year must be on file in the College’s Oserve Office by Feb. 29. FAFSA and Foundation Scholarship Program forms are available in the College’s Oserve Office or can be downloaded by accessing the Owens website at www.owens.edu ( http://www.owens.edu/ ).

In addition, Owens currently participates in several need-based federal and state funded grant programs, work study opportunities, and loans, which all require applicants to file a FAFSA form to determine financial need. Specific programs accessible to students include the Federal Pell Grant, the Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant, the Owens Community College Grant, the Federal Direct Stafford Loan, the Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan and Federal Work Study, among others.

This past academic year, Owens provided more than $118 million in grants, scholarships, loans and federal work study to support the educational needs of students. For more information on the various scholarship opportunities, call (567) 661-7603 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7603.

Owens Community College Launches Gateway to College Program to Help High School Dropouts Earn Diplomas and College Credit

Posted on December 19th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has received a $325,000 start-up grant from Gateway to College National Network to implement Gateway to College, a nationally recognized dropout recovery program.

Gateway to College is designed for young adults ages 16 to 21 who have dropped out of high school or are significantly behind in credits and unlikely to graduate. The program enables them to complete their high school diploma requirements while simultaneously earning college credit toward an associate degree or certificate.

“Owens Community College is extremely honored to be chosen by Gateway to College National Network as the first academic institution in Ohio to offer the Gateway to College program,” said John Satkowski, Interim President of Owens Community College. “The Gateway to College national initiative provides a second chance for students to succeed academically and prepare for a brighter future. An education opens doors to many opportunities and Owens Community College is pleased to collaborate with Toledo Public Schools and Gateway to College National Network and help students realize their fullest academic and career potential.”

Up to 150 students from Toledo Public Schools will be served through the program over the next three years. Students must meet specific criteria for entrance into the program and will be dually enrolled at their K-12 district and Owens Community College until they complete their high school diploma. Tuition and books are free for students enrolled in Gateway to College.
Dr. Jerome Pecko, Superintendent of Toledo Public Schools, is excited to learn that the Toledo Public Schools/Owens Community College partnership was chosen as the first in Ohio to implement the Gateway to College dropout recovery program.

“We’re most grateful to Gateway to College National Network for supporting this initiative. Assisting young adults who have not completed their high school education has become one of Toledo Public Schools’ primary goals. The Gateway program’s unique incentives…a fully paid dual credit program with a comprehensive system of support…virtually eliminates traditionally insurmountable barriers. This program will not only benefit the youth who participate, but also the community in which they reside. After all, education is a key component of and directly related to the vitality of every community.”

Students are placed into small learning communities during their first (Foundation) term, and together they take classes in reading, writing, math, and college skills. After completing the Foundation term, students transition to the comprehensive campus, taking classes with the general student population. Throughout their enrollment in the program, students receive one-on-one advising and support from resource specialists who act as coaches, mentors, and advisors. The wrap-around support of the resource specialist keeps students on the right track for success.

Students graduate from Gateway to College once they have completed their high school diploma requirements. Nationally, Gateway to College students accrue an average of 35 college credits by the time they graduate from the program, putting them well on their way to earning a college credential.
Owens Community College is one of 37 community and technical colleges across the country currently offering the Gateway to College program.

For more information on Gateway to College, visit www.gatewaytocollege.org.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Deliver Over 160 Toys to Area Hospital Children

Posted on December 14th, 2011

FINDLAY, Ohio – Happiness and cheer was readily noticeable within several area hospitals recently thanks to the humanitarian efforts of Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus’ Student Nursing Association. More than 160 toys ranging from dolls and handmade wooden cars to coloring books and board games, collected as part of a community-wide drive, were given to smiling children forced to spend the holiday season in local hospitals.

“I am amazed at the number of toys that were donated to the toy drive,” said Heather Franks of Findlay, an Owens registered nursing student and Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association Vice President. “I want to thank everyone who donated and helped in brightening a child’s day.”

Among the hospitals where Owens students and faculty personally hand-delivered the charitable gifts included Blanchard Valley Health System in Findlay, Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, Lima Memorial Health System in Lima, St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, Mercy Hospital of Tiffin in Tiffin, Fremont Memorial Hospital in Fremont and Fostoria Community Hospital in Fostoria. Over 615 toys have been donated to area hospital children in the last seven years.

“I chose the Owens Registered Nursing Program because I wanted to help others,” said Charity De La Cruz of Fostoria, an Owens registered nursing student and Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association member. “An event such as the toy drive is really important because we (students) are learning about helping others in another way – through community service.”

The Owens Student Nursing Association has a rich and storied history, serving as one of the longest active student organizations at the College. In 2005, Owens expanded its student activities opportunities to include a new Findlay-area Campus chapter of the Student Nursing Association. The organization was created for Findlay-area Campus nursing and pre-nursing students with the overall mission of providing avenues for individuals to engage in community service activities, as well as to serve as a support network for nursing students.

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Over 700 Winter Clothing Items Given to Those Less Fortunate Thanks to Owens Diagnostic Medical Sonography Faculty and Students

Posted on December 12th, 2011

Owens Diagnostic Medical Sonography instructors (L to R) Kristy Lewandowski of Perrysburg, Susan Perry of Woodville and Heather Duval-Foote of Waterville pose for a photo in front of donated winter clothing.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Over 700 winter clothing items recently found their way into the arms of those less fortunate in the Toledo area thanks to the efforts of Owens Community College’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography faculty and students.

Hundreds of coats as well as winter clothing items ranging from hats to scarves were distributed to needy individuals in downtown Toledo as part of the community outreach initiative titled “Susie’s Coats”, which is named in honor of Owens Associate Professor of Sonography Susan Perry of Woodville. Now in its fifth year, “Susie’s Coats” has provided over 1,500 winter clothing items to people in the Toledo area.

“The whole initiative began when I celebrated my 50th birthday five years ago,” explained Perry. “My family asked what I wanted for my birthday, which is Dec. 1, and I told them that I am blessed to have everything that I could ever want or need in my life. For that reason, I told my family that I wanted to help others and ‘Susie’s Coats’ became a reality.”

In addition to becoming a family affair, the “Susie’s Coats” initiative has spread to the College’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program and involves Owens faculty and students.

“The student’s ability to work directly with those less fortunate has a profound, positive impact on their lives,” said Perry. “Sonography is a health career that involves working directly with patients and their families. This experience enables the students to learn about being mindful of their responsibility to the communities that they serve.”

Also assisting the Owens group with the distribution efforts was Toledo Harley-Davidson in Toledo, which donated a trailer to transport and disseminate the clothing items.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Deliver Toys to Area Hospital Children, Dec. 13

Posted on December 8th, 2011

FINDLAY, Ohio – The Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association is working to spread happiness and cheer throughout the surrounding communities by brightening the lives of children forced to spend the holiday season in local hospitals. Toys ranging from dolls to miniature trucks, collected within the last few weeks, will soon find their way to a smiling child’s arms as the Student Nursing Association presents the donated gifts to area hospitals on Tuesday, Dec. 13.

Beginning at 10 a.m., the Owens Student Nursing Association will wrap the various toys in an array of colorful paper in the Findlay-area Campus’ Nursing Lab. At 10:45 a.m., the members will divide up into groups and depart for six area hospitals to personally hand deliver the charitable gifts. Among the hospitals where Owens students will make visits are Blanchard Valley Health System at 11 a.m. (145 W. Wallace St.) in Findlay, Fostoria Community Hospital at 11 a.m. (501 Van Buren St.) in Fostoria, Lima Memorial Health System at 11:30 p.m. (1001 Bellefontaine Ave.) in Lima, Fremont Memorial Hospital at 11:45 a.m. (715 S. Taft Ave.) in Fremont, Mercy Hospital of Tiffin at 12:30 p.m. (485 W. Market St.) in Tiffin and Wood County Hospital at 1 p.m. (950 W. Wooster St.) in Bowling Green. Over 455 toys were donated to area hospital children the last six years.

Owens Names New School of Technology Dean

Posted on December 6th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has named Randy Wharton as the new Dean of the School of Technology. His responsibilities will include overseeing all academic programs, as well as various activities and instructional initiatives within the School.

In addition, his new position will entail supervising the development and implementation of new academic curricula, directing the on-going evaluation of the School’s courses and overseeing the assessment of student learning, articulation and transfer agreements, and the development of community partnerships to enhance educational opportunities and resources for current and future students.

“I am honored to be chosen as Owens Community College’s new Dean of the School of Technology,” said Wharton. “I look forward to advancing the School’s mission with the overall goal of serving the surrounding communities by providing highly skilled graduates that contribute to the future growth and development of the Northwest Ohio region.”

Since May 1999, Wharton has served as the College’s Chair of Design Technologies where has been responsible for the overall leadership of the department and its academic programs, including the recently approved Alternative Energy and Sustainable Systems Technology Program. Additionally, he provides oversight and guidance in the development, revision and enhancement of academic curricula, oversees departmental advisory committees and is continuously furthering collaborative efforts with area businesses and industry for the betterment of advancing higher education opportunities for students in Design Technologies. His campus involvement also includes serving on the College’s Curriculum Committee, Academic Standards Committee and the Ohio Board of Regents Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering Technology Faculty Transfer Assurance Guide Review Panel.

In addition to his current responsibilities as Design Technologies Chair, Wharton has served as the Co-Interim Dean of the School of Technology since April 2010.

Prior to his positions at Owens, he was U.S. Air Force ROTC Commandant of Cadets and Executive Officer for three years where he was responsible for training ROTC cadets to become future U.S. Air Force Officers. His responsibilities included providing leadership and guidance to cadets in the Leadership Laboratory where they are placed in a command structure similar to the U.S. Air Force active duty chain of command and assigned duties and responsibilities in the administrative operation of the cadet corps.

His professional and community involvement includes membership with the Technical Society of Toledo, the U.S. Green Building Council Northwest Ohio Chapter, the American Society for Engineering Education, the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Rotary Club of Perrysburg. Wharton also has served as an Accreditation Evaluator for The Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering national organization.

The Perrysburg resident earned a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering from Mississippi State University and a master’s degree in nuclear engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology.

Owens Diagnostic Medical Sonography Faculty and Students Deliver Winter Clothing to Those Less Fortunate, Dec. 3 and 10

Posted on November 30th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography faculty and students are reaching out those in need of clothing during the upcoming winter months by distributing over 250 coats and 300 items ranging from hats to scarves during the upcoming Saturday mornings, Dec. 3 and 10.

The community outreach initiative is titled “Susie’s Coats” and named in honor of Owens Associate Professor of Sonography Susan Perry of Woodville. Now in its fifth year, “Susie’s Coats” has provided over 1,500 winter clothing items to those less fortunate in the Toledo area.

In addition to becoming a family affair, the “Susie’s Coats” initiative has spread to the College’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program and involves Owens faculty and students.

Beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday (Dec. 3 and 10), Owens faculty and students will distribute winter clothing to those less fortunate at the corner of North Michigan and Adams streets in downtown Toledo from a trailer donated by Toledo Harley-Davidson in Toledo. Owens representatives will be distributing items until 11:30 a.m. both days.

For more information about the “Susie’s Coats” community outreach initiative, or to donate, call (567) 661-7560 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7560.

Owens Community College Names New Associate Vice Provost for Student Services and Enrollment Management

Posted on November 16th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has named Dr. Cynthia Spiers as the new Associate Vice Provost for Student Services and Enrollment Management. Her responsibilities will include overseeing all aspects related to the administrative leadership, coordination and development of initiatives within the academic institution’s student services division.

In addition, her new position will entail providing leadership and oversight of enrollment management and fostering enhanced student success opportunities and resources for the College’s diverse student body through the areas of student life and student enrollment.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Cynthia Spiers to Owens Community College in her new role as Associate Vice Provost for Student Services and Enrollment Management,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “Dr. Spiers is a visionary leader with over 20 years of progressive experience in higher education. She has successfully led efforts in advising, retention, recruitment and technological innovation, which resulted in the advancement of her academic institution’s growth and vitality. We look forward to her leadership, advocacy and commitment to enriching the lives of our current and future students by providing them a superior higher educational experience.”

Since July 2006, Spiers has served as the Executive Director for Institutional Effectiveness and Assistant to the President for Planning at Rhodes State College in Lima. In her position, she has served as a senior level executive responsible for the supervision of the offices of institutional research and assessment and quality improvement. Additionally, Spiers provides counsel and assistance to the college president for institutional strategic and master planning and serves as liaison to the Higher Learning Commission.

Previously, Spiers held the position of Associate Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students at Rhodes State from 2004-06 where she provided leadership of enrollment management efforts collaboratively across the academic institution. Additionally, she oversaw the areas of admissions, financial aid, registration/records, student advising, career services, enrollment systems, disability services and veterans’ affairs. Her 18-year academic career at Rhodes State also includes serving as Dean of Student Development Education, Dean of Enrollment Management and Director of Admissions. Additionally during her tenure at Rhodes State, Spiers held Assistant Professor rank having taught while serving as Dean of Student Development Education.

Spiers’ professional involvement includes membership with the National Association of College and University Business Officers, the Association of Institutional Research and the Society for College and University Planning. Spiers has also been engaged with the National Academic Advising Association and the National Council for Student Development. She currently serves as a North Central Accreditation Peer Reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission.

The Lima resident earned a bachelor’s degree in health, physical education and recreation from Bowling Green State University, a master’s degree in physical education from Bowling Green State University and a doctorate in higher education administration and leadership from Ohio University. Spiers also holds Integrated Planning Certification from the Society for College and University Planning Institute.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Foundation Appoints Board of Directors to Leadership Positions

Posted on November 3rd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has re-elected Thomas Pounds of Toledo, President and Publisher for the “Toledo Free Press”, to serve as Chairman for the Owens Foundation for a second one-year term.

In addition, the College’s Foundation Board of Directors re-elected Daniel Kimmet of Toledo, retired Chief Operating Officer for Dillin Corp., as Vice Chairman; David Seeger of Maumee, President and Chief Executive Officer of Great Lakes Credit Union as Secretary; and James Geers of Findlay, retired Vice President of Global Human Resources at Cooper Tire & Rubber Company, as Treasurer. Each officer will serve a one-year term.

Two Directors were re-elected to their positions during the annual meeting and will serve three-year terms. Re-elected Directors include Thomas Pounds and Jack Sculfort of Perrysburg, Founder and President of Transition Opportunities Inc. In addition, during their recent board meeting, the Board of Directors elected Sharon Gigandet of Toledo and Dr. Larry McDougle of Napoleon to three-year terms. Gigandet serves as an Educational Service Representative for Medical Mutual of Ohio, while McDougle recently retired as President of Owens Community College.

“The Owens Community College Foundation is committed to developing and providing resources to advance the academic institution’s mission of serving our students and community,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and the Foundation. “Such efforts would not be possible without community leaders representing our College’s Foundation. Each officer brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to their position, which is crucial in advancing the Foundation’s goal of removing barriers to higher educational opportunities. The Foundation is extremely thankful for their service and commitment to Owens Community College.”

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.6 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 30 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Center for Emergency Preparedness Awarded $34,500 State Hazardous Materials Training Grant

Posted on November 2nd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Center for Emergency Preparedness has been selected by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) to receive a $34,576 hazardous materials grant for Northwest Ohio public safety and emergency services personnel training specific to the proper techniques for managing hazardous materials transportation and spills.

“Owens Community College is very appreciative to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio for selecting the Center for Emergency Preparedness as a hazardous materials grant recipient,” said Michael Cornell, Owens Director of the Center for Emergency Preparedness. “We look forward to collaborating with area city and township fire departments, as well as law enforcement and city agencies, and advancing this region’s emergency preparedness related to hazardous materials training.”

The hazardous material training grant is part of a collaborative effort with several organizations in Wood, Lucas, Fulton, Henry and Ottawa counties. City and township fire departments partnering with Owens are Perrysburg Township Fire Department, Perrysburg City Fire Department, Springfield Township Fire Department, Northwood Fire Department, Oregon Fire Department, Washington Township Fire Department, Bowling Green Fire Department, Troy Fire Department, North Baltimore Village Fire Department, Grand Rapids Fire Department, Pemberville Fire Department, Central Joint Fire Department, Lake Township Fire Department, Napoleon Fire Department, Wauseon Fire Department and Fostoria Fire Department. Owens will also partner with several community organizations, including CSX Corp., Davis-Besse, Toledo Division of Environmental Services, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Coast Guard, among others.

Beginning in November, Owens will provide hazardous materials operations and hazardous materials technician training to 195 students. The 16-hour hazardous materials operations training course offers insight into such areas as basic hazard and risk assessment techniques as well as performing basic control, containment and confinement operations. Owens’ hazardous materials technician course requires 40 hours and provides hazmat responders with hands-on learning and training to elevate their knowledge and experience to the level of a hazardous materials technician.

The PUCO awards hazardous materials planning and training grants to local government subdivisions, educational institutions and state agencies in Ohio. Money for these grants comes from fines paid by hazardous material carriers and shippers. Individual grants are based upon applications to the PUCO and are awarded on a reimbursement basis.

The PUCO has regulatory authority to conduct audits, inspections and safety reviews to evaluate the safety records policies and procedures of motor carriers, including hazardous materials carriers. The PUCO hazardous materials transportation program has been recognized by Battelle Memorial Institute as one of the best and most comprehensive such programs in the nation.

Owens has been at the forefront in providing educational training to public safety forces for over three decades. In 2009, the College made a substantial investment in the future of emergency preparedness training within the region by officially opening the doors to a new $3.2 million Training and Operations Center at the Center for Emergency Preparedness. The facility provides first responders with expanded opportunities for real-world, scenario training highlighted by the only indoor emergency services virtual training system in the country.

In 2007, Owens marked a milestone in the academic institution’s history by opening a $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness. The Center for Emergency Preparedness fulfills a need for a rather expansive complex within the region that can provide “real-world” training in a safe and controlled environment. Training scenarios that can be conducted within the new facility include those related to natural and manmade disasters involving hazardous materials, confined spaces, riots, entrapments and weapons of mass destruction, among others. Since opening the facility, police, fire and emergency services personnel, as well as the military, from Ohio and beyond, including the FBI, Ohio National Guard and Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, have utilized the facility for either specialized or concurrent emergency preparedness training.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College’s ‘Halloween Alternative’ Provides Fun for Hundreds of Area Children

Posted on November 2nd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Friendly ghosts, skeletons and witches were recently abound at Owens Community College’s Student Health and Activities Center as the academic institution served as host to its sixth annual “Halloween Alternative” for hundreds of Northwest Ohio children.

Sponsored by the College’s Student Government, the child-friendly haunted evening featured a variety of arts and crafts activities for participants to choose from, highlighted by Halloween picture coloring and keepsake pumpkin drawing stations. Attendees also were given a trick-or-treat bag to decorate with their favorite colors and unique Halloween designs. Throughout their haunted adventure, children trick-or-treated for candy from Owens students and were able to travel through a haunted house.

“Owens Community College’s ‘Halloween Alternative’ was once again a huge success thanks to efforts of the campus student body,” said John Byers, Owens Director of Student Involvement. “Hundreds of community members were able to celebrate Halloween in a family-friendly environment and Owens was honored to play a small role in making their evening an enjoyable experience.”

The College’s Student Government is comprised of individuals who serve as the student body’s voice on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Balancing their time between school and work, Student Government members are constantly initiating new projects and events that cater to the interests of Owens’ student body.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

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Owens Community College and Siena Heights University Announce New Dual Enrollment Sport Management Transfer Program Partnership

Posted on November 1st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Students with aspirations of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Sport Management will now be able to continue their academic pursuits while attending both Owens Community College and Siena Heights University as the two schools have finalized a unique Dual Enrollment Sport Management Transfer Program partnership.

As a result of the new collaboration, Owens students will be afforded the opportunity to complete academic coursework while simultaneously enrolled at the two schools. Owens students can participate in the new 69 credit-hour transfer program with the start of the upcoming Fall Semester 2012.

“Owens Community College is proud to collaborate with Siena Heights University on such an innovative educational partnership, which benefits students at both academic institutions,” said Dr. Gretchen Carroll, Owens Community College Interim Dean of the School of Business. “The new Dual Enrollment Sport Management Transfer Program partnership further strengthens and opens new doors to learning opportunities for Owens students by creating a seamless pathway to a Siena Heights bachelor’s degree in Sport Management.”

“The program takes a practical and theoretical approach allowing students to get a strong academic background and experience in the sport field throughout their four years in the program,” said Mary Beth Leibold, Siena Heights University Sport Management Program Director. “Community-based learning is part of the program. Students learn in the field.”

Owens students will have the opportunity to enroll in a total 12 credit hours of coursework (six credit hours per Summer Semester) at Siena Heights through the university’s Business and Management Division as part of the new Dual Enrollment Sport Management Transfer Program. Siena Heights academic coursework will include introduction to sport management, sport psychology, management of sport organizations and sport in American society. The additional 57 credit hours of coursework will occur through Owens’ School of Business during Fall and Spring semester in such academic areas as modern business math, principles of management, the legal environment of business, microeconomics, business communications and business management capstone, among others.

Owens students will obtain an associate’s degree in Business Management upon completion of the 69 credit hours and have approximately 60 credit hours of Siena Heights academic coursework to complete their bachelor’s degree in Sport Management.

In addition, the dual enrollment option provides students with access to services at both academic institutions. Owens students will be issued a Siena Heights student ID, which will provide access to an array of Siena Heights resources to include academic advising and library privileges as well as campus events and activities to broaden their educational experience. Several of the academic courses will also be team-taught by both Owens and Siena Heights professors. Additionally, Owens students within the Dual Enrollment Sport Management Transfer Program are eligible for several transfer scholarships to utilize in their final semesters at Siena Heights University.

Owens students are required to meet pre-established criteria to be admitted into the new dual enrollment program, which includes achieving a 3.2 grade point average and participating in an interview selection process. Additionally, students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average while enrolled in the program. Coursework successfully completed will transfer and be applied toward fulfilling requirements at both academic institutions. Space within the new selective transfer program is limited 25 students as part of the first cohort group.

The new Dual Enrollment Sport Management Transfer Program partnership builds upon a longstanding articulation agreement between the respective institutions which enables Owens students to seamlessly transfer to Siena Heights and pursue their bachelor’s degree, with junior standing, after completing their associate’s degree. For more information about the new Dual Enrollment Sport Management Transfer Program, contact Owens’ School of Business at (567) 661-7110 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7110, or Siena Heights Admissions Office at (517) 264-7180.

Siena Heights University is a Catholic university founded and sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. Siena Heights is a coeducational North Central accredited institution founded in the liberal arts tradition, offering associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and specialist’s degrees. The university is headquartered in Adrian, Mich., with degree completion centers in Battle Creek, Benton Harbor, Jackson, Lansing, Monroe, Southfield and online.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Students to Assist Fellow College Students Through a Cap and Gown Collection Drive Program

Posted on October 27th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – As the Fall Semester nears an end, many students are about to reach the pinnacle of their academic careers by receiving a college diploma. However, the parties and celebrations that follow the pomp and circumstance quickly subside after a few days and in many instances the graduate’s cap and gown are placed in storage or discarded entirely. Owens Community College’s Student Government is encouraging past college and university graduates to help future graduating classes by donating their garb to those less fortunate as part of a Graduation Donation Program.

Beginning Monday, Oct. 31, Owens’ Student Government will accept a variety of new and gently used caps and gowns. The Graduation Donation Program drive will run through Nov. 30. Collected caps and gowns will be available for Owens graduating students to use during Fall Commencement for a $5 deposit, while supplies last, as part of the Student Government outreach program. Interested graduates can pick up their cap and gown in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center Room 165 on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township starting Nov. 4.

“Owens Community College’s Student Government sees the cap and gown collection program as a great opportunity for college and university graduates to give back by donating their cap and gown to those less fortunate students,” said Brad Fields, Owens Student Government President. “We want to make sure that the last thing students need to worry about on their special day is having enough money for a cap and gown.”

According Fields, the Owens Student Government is accepting donated caps and gowns of all colors from other colleges and universities as they do not have to be Owens’ traditional cap and gown commencement color of black.

“We intend to work with area colleges and universities and provide them with the donated caps and gowns to assist their own students,” he stated.

Owens has set up a collection points on both the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Area residents can drop off their caps and gowns on the Toledo-area Campus at the Student Health and Activities Center Room 165. On the Findlay-area Campus, the collection point is in the College’s Student Services Center.

The College’s Student Government is comprised of individuals who serve as the student body voice on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Balancing their time between school and work, Student Government members are constantly initiating new projects and events that cater to the interests of Owens’ student body.

For more information about the collection drive, or to donate, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Students Promote Healthy Living During Recent Care Fair for Health Event

Posted on October 21st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Hundreds of area residents and high school students recently learned about ways to make their lives more enjoyable through healthy living as part of Owens Community College’s annual Care Fair for Health event.

The event, which was free and open to the public, provided attendees with the opportunity to gain practical health information from more than 60 displays outlining a diverse array of topics, including CPR, cancer information and care, organ and tissue donation, nutrition and culinary arts, diabetes information, mental health, substance abuse, heart health and prevention, HIV awareness, fire safety, sports care and stress management. Additionally, individuals were able to test their personal health through free screenings and tests, including blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar screenings.

In addition, Owens faculty and students were on hand to provide free bone density tests and scans. Flu shots were also available from ProMedica.

Organizations on hand from the health care community included ProMedica, Mobile Meals of Toledo, St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center, Toledo-Lucas County Health Department, Dental Center of Northwest Ohio, Life Connection of Ohio, Serenity Farm, Dave’s Running, Lucas County Children Services and The Sight Center of Northwest Ohio, among many others.

Information was also available for those individuals interested in pursuing a college education. Owens offers a wide variety of academic programs through the School of Health Sciences and the School of Nursing, and past graduates from these academic programs have gone on to become dental hygienists, dietetic technicians, chefs, hotel and restaurant managers, occupational therapy assistants, nurses, health information technicians, radiographers and ultrasound technologists throughout Northwest Ohio.

Local high schools attending the event included Four County Career Center, Clay High School, Margaretta High School, Bowsher High School, Vanguard Career Center, Whitmer High School and Woodward High School.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

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Owens Alumni Association Golf Outing Raises Over $26,588 in Support of Scholarships

Posted on October 5th, 2011

The Owens Golf Classic championship team was sponsored by Bowers Asphalt and Paving Inc. in Walbridge and included (left to right) Tom Sattler, Todd Satler, David Neely and Terry Tyson.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – One hundred twenty-four area residents recently enjoyed a day of golf and entertainment in support of alumni scholarship programs as Owens Community College’s Alumni Association held its ninth annual Golf Classic. The 31-team event netted over $26,588 to benefit scholarship endeavors.

Since its inception, the Owens event has netted over $261,768 to support Owens students pursuing a college education and their career aspirations.

“Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is proud to once again host a community-wide event in which the proceeds benefit students pursuing a college education,” said Laura Moore, Owens Alumni Association Executive Director and Event Chair. “The Golf Classic was a huge success and would not have been possible without the overwhelming support of Northwest Ohio’s business and industry, as well as Owens alumni. Their generous contributions will go along way in ensuring our students with opportunities for lifelong learning.”

Organized by the Owens Alumni Association’s steering committee, the golf outing was held at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. The event featured 18-holes of golf, lunch, grazing dinner and an awards program. The Golf Classic event sponsors were Hylant Group and Hylant Administrative Services, and Hylant Group CEO Mike Hylant served as the honorary chair. In addition, Metzgers Printing + Mailing was the print sponsor.

The championship team of the four-person scramble was sponsored by Bowers Asphalt and Paving Inc. in Walbridge. Team members included Tom Sattler, Todd Sattler, David Neely and Terry Tyson.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

1,318 Shoes Given New Life through Owens and Local Child’s National Collection Drive Initiative

Posted on October 5th, 2011

Owens students and Environmental Club members (left to right) Hannah Jacobs of Luckey and Brad Fields of Toledo assist Eisenhower Middle School sixth grader Erek Hansen of Curtice in loading the donated shoes into a truck for future delivery to USAgain.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Environmental Club is raising environmental awareness by bringing new life to used shoes previously destined for overcrowded landfills. As a result of the student group’s recent collection drive efforts on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, 1,318 shoes will soon find their way to USAgain and future use in the form of playgrounds, running tracks and tennis courts.

The Environmental Club recently presented the donated shoes to Eisenhower Middle School sixth grader Erek Hansen of Curtice to assist in his personal goal of promoting environmental conservation and awareness.

“It is really great that all of these donated shoes will be put to a good use,” said Hannah Jacobs of Luckey, Owens student and Environmental Club Vice President. “Personally, I know that I had several pairs of shoes that were not being used and just collecting dust at home. It is very rewarding to know my shoes and the donations of many others will not end up in a landfill.”

“Thank you to Owens Community College and the community in helping to save our planet,” said an appreciative Hansen. “These shoes are going to a good cause.”

The recent Owens shoe collection drive initiative is part of a nationwide effort with USAgain. Founded in 1999, the environmental organization is committed to providing consumers with a convenient and eco-friendly option to rid themselves of excess clothing, which is then diverted from landfills for recycling or resale in the United States as well as abroad. USAgain operates over 10,000 collection bins in 15 states. In 2010 alone, the organization collected over 56 million pounds of discarded clothing.

All types of shoes were accepted as part of the collection drive. Donated shoes will either be reused or processed and recycled into material used in synthetic turf, playgrounds, running tracks, tennis courts, rubber mats and filling for car insulation.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Environmental Club Donates 1,318 Shoes to Local Child’s National Collection Drive Initiative, Oct. 4

Posted on September 30th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Environmental Club is raising environmental awareness by bringing new life to used shoes previously destined for overcrowded landfills. As a result of the student group’s recent collection drive efforts, 1,318 shoes will soon find their way to USAgain and future use in the form of playgrounds, running tracks and tennis courts.

Beginning at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 4, the Environmental Club will be presenting the donated shoes to Erek Hansen of Curtice to assist in his personal goal of promoting environmental conservation and awareness. The presentation will take place outside the College’s Facility Services building, which is located on First Street on the Toledo-area Campus.

The shoe collection drive initiative is part of a nationwide effort with USAgain. Founded in 1999, the environmental organization is committed to providing consumers with a convenient and eco-friendly option to rid themselves of excess clothing, which is then diverted from landfills for recycling or resale in the United States as well as abroad. USAgain operates over 10,000 collection bins in 15 states. In 2010 alone, the organization collected over 56 million pounds of discarded clothing.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Center for Emergency Preparedness Dedicates Flag of Honor During 9/11 Memorial Flag Service Event

Posted on September 30th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 200 area residents recently joined Owens Community College in paying tribute to those victims and heroes that lost their lives in the Sept. 11 tragedy during a Sept. 11 Memorial Flag Service presented by the School of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and the Center for Emergency Preparedness.

“I am certain that we can all remember in vivid detail where we were as we watched or listened to the events unfolding on Sept. 11, 2001,” said Michael Cornell, Owens Director of the Center for Emergency Preparedness. “Our country suffered a terrible blow. However, since that time we have proven to the world that we are not and cannot be defeated. As we reflect on Sept. 11, let us always remember and never forget, but let us also use this as a time to renew and rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of the traits and attitudes that make our country great and the strengthening of the true American spirit.”

Events that took place during the Sept. 11 Memorial Flag Service events were a flag raising ceremony by the Toledo Police Department Honor Guard and the Owens Basic Peace Officer Training Academies and a moment of silence in conjunction with a flyover at approximately 8:46 a.m. by the Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center Life Flight.

Additionally, a Flag of Honor bearing the names of all those who perished as a result of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks was presented and placed within the Center for Emergency Preparedness for permanent display by emergency services representatives to conclude the ceremony.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

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Owens Community College Names New Director of Veterans Services

Posted on September 27th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Vickie L. Adams as the new Director of Veterans Services. Her responsibilities will include overseeing all administrative aspects related to the leadership and management of veterans’ initiatives at the academic institution.

In addition, Adams will serve as the primary point-of-contact and advocate in assisting veterans, active service persons, reservists and eligible dependents with enrollment, re-admittance, persistence and completion of their program of study at Owens. Her position will also entail enhancing educational opportunities and resources for veterans, active service persons, reservists and eligible dependents through outreach in the community and on campus.

“I am excited and honored to serve as the College’s new Director of Veterans Services,” said Adams. “Owens Community College has a long and proud history of providing programs and services to ensure that veterans succeed in their educational pursuits. I look forward to furthering the reputation of the College’s Veterans Services Department and opening new doors for our students.”

Prior to her new position at Owens, Adams served as the Director of the Monroe County Department of Veterans Affairs for 15 years. While with the Monroe County Department of Veterans Affairs, she was responsible for assisting the county population of 12,500 veterans and their families in obtaining benefits from local, state and federal agencies, which included filing for service connected disability compensation, non-service connected pension, aid and attendance, as well as educational benefits, home loans, medical benefits and death benefits. Adams also acted as an interviewer/investigator for the Veterans Affairs Committee and the Veterans Trust Fund.

Previously, Adams served as a U.S. Air Force Commander in a number of squadrons, culminating in a position as the Squadron Commander of the 3362nd Student Squadron at the former Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Ill. from 1987-92. In her role as Commander, she was responsible for a 1,000-person dormitory, which housed non-prior service technical training students. Adams oversaw the operation of the facility, budget and staff, and ensured the health, morale and discipline of the students. She retired in April 1992.

Her professional involvement includes membership with the Michigan Association of County Veterans Counselors, the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, AmVets and the Monroe County Homelessness Network. Additionally, Adams holds accreditations from the Military Order for the Purple Heart, the Disabled American Veterans, American Legion and the Vietnam Veterans of America organizations.

The Monroe, Mich. resident holds a master’s degree in organizational behavior and human resource management from Chapman College and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Texas State University.

Owens’ Department of Veterans Services is dedicated to assisting veterans, active service persons, reservists and eligible dependents in their pursuit of a college education. To date, over 400 individuals are involved in Owens’ veterans services programs.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College President Dr. Larry G. McDougle Announces Plans to Retire Effective Sept. 30

Posted on September 20th, 2011

Dr. Larry G. McDougle

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Board of Trustees and Dr. Larry G. McDougle have mutually agreed to announce his plans to retire for health reasons effective Sept. 30, 2011.

“This is certainly one of the hardest decisions I have had to make in my life,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, President of Owens Community College. “With the support of my family, my physician and the Board of Trustees, I have decided to retire as Owens Community College’s President for health reasons.”

President McDougle added, “It has truly been a privilege and honor to represent our many students, faculty and staff as their President. Owens Community College is an outstanding academic institution of higher learning and plays a crucial role in effecting the lives of thousands by helping them reach their educational goals and career aspirations. I am very proud of the work that our academic institution has accomplished in the last few years and the many initiatives that are currently underway, involving area academic institutions, as well as with business and industry, which will help to shape this region’s educational and economic future.”

Owens Board of Trustees has appointed John Satkowski, Executive Vice President of Business Affairs and Chief Financial Officer, to serve as Interim President. Satkowski will formally assume the new responsibilities Oct. 1.

“Owens Community College’s Board of Trustees is extremely appreciative to President Dr. Larry McDougle and his leadership, vision and commitment to advancing this academic institution’s mission and reputation of academic excellence,” said Dee Talmage, Chair of the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. “His positive impact on this organization will be felt for many years to come. First and foremost is the importance of President McDougle’s health and the Board of Trustees accepts his decision to retire at the end of September.”

John Satkowski

Board of Trustees Chair Talmage added, “John Satkowski is highly respected and regarded among higher education and community leaders throughout the state and his leadership has been instrumental in the growth and expansion of educational resources for our students, as well as ensuring that Owens Community College is positioned well from a fiscal standpoint. We look forward to continuing to work with John in his position as Board of Trustees Treasurer and now as Interim President.”

According to Board of Trustees Chair Talmage, a national search is currently underway to replace Dr. McDougle as President of Owens Community College.

“Owens Community College Board of Trustees is currently working with the global firm Heidrick & Struggles to assist in conducting the presidential search,” stated Board of Trustees Chair Talmage. “Heidrick & Struggles International Inc. is recognized internationally and has extensive experience in conducting searches within the area of higher education. The Board of Trustees goal has not changed as we are committed to having a new President in place prior to the end of the current 2011-12 academic year.”

“I am honored that the Board of Trustees has asked me to serve as Owens Community College’s Interim President and look forward to building on our academic institution’s commitment to academic excellence,” said John Satkowski, Interim President of Owens Community College.

Dr. McDougle was named the fifth President in the 46-year history of Owens Community College in June 2010. Prior to his appointment, he served as the College’s Interim President for six months.

During his tenure as Owens’ President, Dr. McDougle has worked tirelessly to reach out and engage Owens faculty, staff and students, as well as community and educational partners, with the purpose of advancing higher education for area residents throughout Northwest Ohio and beyond. Under his leadership, the College has expanded educational opportunities to Arrowhead Park in Maumee and unveiled a new Learning Center, as well as opened the doors to newly renovated Founders Hall and Heritage Hall buildings at the former Penta Career Center as part of the College’s ongoing campus expansion initiative. Additionally, Owens recently opened the doors to a newly refurbished Welding Design Center, which features the latest in technological and academic resources specific to welding for several degree and certificate programs.

This past Spring Semester,students attending the Owens Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo began classes in a newly expanded and renovated educational facility as the academic institution unveiled two new instructional classrooms and one open computer laboratory all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to enhance learning through hands-on instruction and exercises. The new resources enable the College to offer even more educational opportunities in downtown Toledo.

Other initiatives include the opening of a new Faculty Development Center on Toledo-area Campus, as well as unveiling a new wind turbine and solar array on the Findlay-area Campus. Additionally, Owens is implementing a new Energy Strategic Plan, which has reduced energy by over 20 percent, and further enhanced educational services for students through the creation of an OServe area. In addition, a new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program was unveiled in March 2010. The program is designed to provide graduating high school students achieving academic excellence at the highest level the opportunity to pursue a free college education.

Also under President McDougle’s leadership, a thorough review of the registered nursing program has taken place and the School of Nursing is currently working diligently on regaining National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) registered nursing program accreditation. The registered nursing program has received Candidacy Status from the NLNAC. As a result, the NLNAC has invited Owens’ registered nursing program to complete and submit a written self-study in the multi-step process of achieving accreditation. Once the self-study is completed, an NLNAC site visit will be conducted and a governing board review will take place to determine the College’s registered nursing program’s accreditation status.

Additionally, the registered nursing program recently earned the distinction of receiving full approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing for a new five-year term. A full approval is the highest level that a nursing education program can achieve from the Ohio Board of Nursing.The College’s registered nursing program has been approved continuously by the Ohio Board of Nursing since 1971.

President McDougle has more than 40 years of experience in higher education as a faculty member and administrator in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and South Carolina. President McDougle was named the fourth President of Northwest State Community College in 1991 and retired as President Emeritus in 2003. During his tenure, Northwest State doubled in size, both in terms of enrollment and physical plant. Additionally, President McDougle served as Academic Dean of Instruction in the Community and Technical College of the University of Toledo from 1984-91.

Since his retirement, President McDougle has been a part-time faculty member in the University of Toledo Higher Education program, which is designed to prepare students for positions as college administrators. His professional background also includes serving as a tenured Professor at Indiana University, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and the University of Toledo.

President McDougle has received many honors to include an Honorary Doctor of Educational Leadership in 1998 and the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2009, both from the University of Findlay. In 1996, he received the Philip J. Rusche Distinguished Service Award from the University of Toledo College of Education and Allied Professions. Two years later, President McDougle was awarded the John C. Hoyt Outstanding Employment and Training Leadership Award from the Toledo Area Private Industry Council. In addition, he is the author of more than 60 articles, which have been published in a variety of professional journals, and has been invited to make presentations at more than 150 regional and national conferences.

Nationally, President McDougle has held Board of Directors-level positions with the National Fire Protection Association, the Midwest Society for Human Resources/Industrial Relations Chapter of the Midwest Business Administration Association and the Membership Committee of the American Technical Education Association. In Ohio, he has served on the Ohio Board of Regents Advisory Committee on Service Achievement and has been a member of the Board of Trustees for Mercy College of Northwest Ohio, the Northwest Ohio Regional Economic Development, the Regional Growth Partnership and the Henry County Business Advisory Council.

Satkowski has served as the College’s Executive Vice President of Business Affairs and Chief Financial Officer since February 2007. Satkowski is responsible for all business operations for Owens and also serve as Treasurer for the Board of Trustees.

In addition, he provides leadership and guidance within the areas of finance, auxiliary enterprises, budgeting, facilities planning and maintenance, risk management, and safety and security, as well as spearheading initiatives pertaining to the College’s continuous growth and expansion, strengthening both the campus and surrounding communities. Satkowski also coordinates capital improvement requests and oversee the design phase and construction progress of the College’s new facilities and renovations.

Prior to his position at Owens, Satkowski served as the Associate Vice President of Academic Finance at the University of Toledo from 2000-07. While at the University of Toledo, he was responsible for overseeing budget development and reporting, general accounting and purchasing for all the academic institution’s colleges, which included working directly with the deans on financial and personnel issues. Satkowski also Chaired the University of Distance Learning Committee and was a member of the Fiscal Advisory, University Strategic Planning and Facilities Master Planning committees.

Before his career at the University of Toledo, Satkowski held the position of Director of Academic Budgets at the Medical College of Ohio (now University of Toledo Health Science Campus), where he oversaw the institution’s academic budgeting, institutional capital budget development/monitoring, internal audit, academic costing, capital project reporting, strategic planning and institutional financial reporting areas.

His professional and community involvement includes membership on the Michigan Association of School Boards’ National Legislative Network Committee and past President and current Secretary/Treasurer for the University of Michigan Alumni Association of Toledo. Satkowski also was a Bedford Public Schools Board of Education member for 20 years. While a board member, he served terms as both President and Treasurer.

The Temperance, Mich., resident holds a juris doctorate degree in law from the College of Law at the University of Toledo, a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Toledo and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Michigan.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Ohio Governor Appoints Community Leader to Owens Board of Trustees Position

Posted on September 14th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Ohio Gov. John R. Kasich has appointed H. Richard Rowe of Findlay to the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. Rowe will serve a six-year term on the College’s Board of Trustees ending in 2016.

Rowe serves as a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments in Findlay. He attended Bowling Green State University and holds a Series 7 Securities License as well as a Life and Health Insurance License. The Findlay resident served on the College’s Board of Trustees from 2004-10. During his previous tenure on the College’s Board of Trustees, Rowe held the leadership positions of Chair of the Board of Trustees Finance Committee and Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees.

His professional and community involvement includes the Kiwanis Club of Findlay and the United Way of Hancock County and he served as a City Councilman for 10 years in Findlay.

The College’s Board of Trustees is comprised of seven community leaders from Lucas, Wood, Hancock and Sandusky counties who are appointed by the Governor of Ohio for six-year terms.

In addition to Rowe, Owens Board of Trustees members include David Habegger of Oregon, Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg, R J Molter of Woodville, Diana H. Talmage of Ottawa Hills and William E. Takacs of Toledo.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Delivers Backpacks and Supplies to Area Elementary School Children, Sept. 7-14

Posted on September 1st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association in collaboration with Books-A-Million, two Walt Churchill’s Market locations, three Great Lakes Credit Union branches and five Genoa Bank branches are brightening many children’s lives through a unique community service endeavor titled “Backpack to the Future”. Over 420 backpacks and more than 8,200 school supply items collected throughout the summer months are being donated to 15 area elementary schools during the month of September.

Beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 7, Owens representatives will deliver backpacks and supplies to Toledo Public Schools’ McKinley Elementary School (1901 W. Central Ave.) at 10:30 a.m. and to Rossford’s Glenwood Elementary School (8950 Avenue Rd.) at 3:45 p.m. On Thursday, Sept. 8, Owens will donate backpacks and school supplies to Toledo Public Schools’ Spring Elementary School (730 Spring St.) at 9:30 a.m. and to Toledo Public Schools’ Raymer Elementary School (550 Raymer Blvd.) at 1 p.m. On Friday, Sept. 9, College officials will make backpack and school supply donations to Toledo Public Schools’ Garfield Elementary School (1103 N. Ravine Pkwy.) at 9:30 a.m. The following week, Owens representatives will make their final stop on Wednesday, Sept. 14, at Lincoln Elementary School in Findlay (200 W. Lincoln) at 2:30 p.m.

Over the past three months, “Backpack to the Future” accepted gently-used or new backpacks and new school supplies from area residents to assist disadvantaged school children throughout Northwest Ohio. In addition to backpacks, individuals donated crayons, markers, bottles of glue, glue sticks, colored pencils, pencils, pink erasers, school boxes, pocket folders, marbled covered composition books and Kleenex tissues.

The drive also collected over $1,429 from community members. The charitable donations will go toward the purchase of school supplies.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Foundation Appoints Community Leaders to the Board of Directors

Posted on August 19th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Foundation has appointed three community members to the Board of Directors. Each director will serve a three-year term.

The newly appointed directors are Linda J. Brown-Ewing of Toledo, Vice President of Community Affairs for Fifth Third Bank; Louise A. Jackson of Toledo, Partner of Spengler Nathanson, and Katherine Kreuchauf of Findlay, President of The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation.

“Linda, Louise and Katherine are outstanding leaders and are deeply committed to their communities,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and the Foundation. “They understand the value and importance of a quality college education in promoting economic growth and development throughout our region. The wealth of knowledge they have accumulated through their professional and life experiences will significantly impact the Foundation’s efforts to enhance programs and services for current and future students.”

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.5 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 32 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College and Walters Family Announce New Ryan, Mary and Hayden Walters Endowed Scholarship Program

Posted on August 16th, 2011

Owens and Walters Family representatives pose for a photo after announcing the new Ryan, Mary and Hayden Walters Endowed Scholarship Program.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College and the Walters Family are honoring the legacy of Ryan, Mary and Hayden Walters and their commitment to lifelong learning by establishing a new $7,100 scholarship endowment fund in their memory.

Proceeds generated from the scholarship fund will be used to assist future Owens students with aspirations of careers in early childhood education, information systems, computer programming and computer systems. The new Ryan, Mary and Hayden Walters Scholarship will be awarded annually.

“Owens Community College is proud to honor Ryan, Mary and Hayden Walters through the creation of this scholarship program, which will assist students in pursuing their educational and career aspirations for many years to come,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and the Owens Foundation. “Ryan graduated from Owens Community College and he and his wife, Mary, and their son, Hayden, are a part of the alumni family. The creation of this endowed scholarship fund will serve as a lifetime tribute to their educational values, lives and memory.”

“On behalf of my family (Walters, Arquette, Gerwin, DeFriece and Sigler families), I would like to thank the community for their sponsorship and support of the first-ever Walters Family 5K Run,” said Robin Arquette, who is the sister of Ryan Walters. “The contributions from this event will provide students who are attending Owens Community College with scholarships.”

Selection criteria for the new scholarship initiative will be based upon recipients being enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours at Owens per semester and achieving a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average. Additionally, preference will be given to a student who is majoring in early childhood education, information systems, computer programming and computer systems.

In June 2010, Ryan, Mary and Hayden Walters lost their lives as a result of a tornado and damaging storms that devastated the Northwest Ohio region. The initial contribution to the new Ryan, Mary and Hayden Walters Scholarship Endowment Fund came from the inaugural Walters Family 5K Run to honor the seven victims of the June 5, 2010 tornado. Over 300 individuals participated in the first-ever event, which took place on June 4 in Millbury.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens to Provide Green Energy Training to Six Companies Through Ohio Department of Development Energizing Careers Program

Posted on August 8th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Six Northwest Ohio companies have been selected to receive nearly one million in grant funding from the Ohio Department of Department’s Energizing Careers Program to assist in training workers in advanced energy technologies. As part of collaboration, Owens Community College will provide the educational training for the local businesses.

The program is made possible through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act State Energy Sector Partnership Training program, funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. The Ohio Department of Development’s Workforce and Talent Division administers the Energizing Careers Program to assist companies that are manufacturing components for the wind, solar and biomass industries. The program reimburses the cost of training up to $6,000 for full-time employees. Preferential project funding is given to companies located in 44 Ohio counties impacted by the restructuring of the automotive industry, as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor.

“The future of our economy is advanced energy manufacturing and our workforce must keep up with the demands of the marketplace,” said Christiane Schmenk, Director of the Ohio Department of Development. “These training dollars will benefit incumbent workers, as well as allow new employees to be hired.”

“Owens Community College is pleased to collaborate with Northwest Ohio business and industry and provide leading edge training, enabling our region to remain competitive in today’s ever-changing global economy,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services.

Area companies receiving funding as part of the Energizing Careers Program are AP Alternatives LLC of Ridgeville Corners ($210,000 grant) (20 new and 15 incumbent trainees), Applied Energy Technologies Inc. of Maumee ($180,000) (35 new trainees), ARGO-HYTOS Inc. of Bowling Green ($100,200) (two new and 17 incumbent trainees), Marathon Special Products of Bowling Green ($250,600) (120 incumbent trainees), Pro-Pak Industries of Maumee ($156,000) (three new and 23 incumbent trainees) and TecnoSunSolar USA of Toledo (12 new and one incumbent trainees).

AP Alternatives is a start-up company owned by the David Von Deylen family, who also owns Alex Products Inc. AP Alternatives purchases products from Alex Products, which are in turn used to assemble and install solar mounting systems. The current product lines include modular solar racking with automated installation equipment and commercial seating systems. Applied Energy Technologies is a leading global provider of solar mounting systems. The organization designs, engineers and manufacturers solar mounting solutions for all types of solar installation. ARGO-HYTOS designs customized manifolds, valve assemblies and power racks, as well as filtration solutions and hydraulic-tank solutions to meet the specific needs of customers in the wind energy market.

Marathon Special Products is a manufacturing company that designs and produces electrical wiring devices. Currently, the company is working on numerous solar power integration components, wind power connections and wind circuit devices. Pro-Pak Industries has expanded its operations to serve as an alternative energy supplier to First Solar Inc. and Willard & Kelsey Solar Group LLC. The company is partnering with these manufacturers on the design, manufacturing and assembly of packaging.

TecnoSunSolar USA produces solutions for modern energy opportunities, such as the patented Dual Axis Tracker designed to precisely follow the movement of the sun in order to maximize solar panel output. TecnoSunSolar’s intelligent control system collects real-time atmospheric data to optimize operating efficiency while re-positioning trackers and solar modules during severe weather conditions.

In addition to the new business partnerships, Owens is collaborating with First Solar Inc. of Perrysburg, Dow Chemical Company of Findlay and Willard & Kelsey Solar Group LLC of Perrysburg on educational training from recent Energizing Careers Program grants. The three companies received a total of more than $1.8 million in Ohio Department of Development grants in 2010.

Working with partners across business, state and local governments, academia and the nonprofit sector, the Ohio Department of Development works to attract, create, grow and retain businesses through competitive incentives and targeted investments. Engaged every day in marketing, innovating, investing and collaborating, the Ohio Department of Development works at the speed of business to accelerate and support the teamwork that is necessary for success by providing financial, informational and technical assistance to those making an investment in Ohio’s future.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College to Welcome Thousands of Students for Fall Semester, Aug. 15

Posted on August 4th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Opening its doors for the first day of Fall Semester classes, Owens Community College will once again welcome thousands of students to the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as to the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo in the coming weeks.

On Monday, Aug. 15, Owens students will be locating their classrooms, talking with academic advisors, purchasing books and registering for classes on the College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses to kick off the new fall term. The first day of classes for the Arrowhead Park Learning Center and the Learning Center at The Source is on Monday, Aug. 29.

Owens is once again expanding educational opportunities for area residents by announcing the creation of enhanced curriculum for the new academic year. For Fall Semester 2011, the College will offer a new associate’s degree in exercise science and a new certificate in dental assisting through the School of Health Sciences, as well as new associate’s degrees in interior design and music business technology and new certificates in popular music and urban agriculture and sustainability through the School of Arts and Sciences.

The College is also continuing to expand academic options for students with aspirations of pursuing bachelor’s degrees by establishing new transfer agreement partnerships with such four-year institutions as Lourdes College, Ohio Northern University, Tiffin University, Siena Heights University, Bluffton University and Walsh College, among others.

In addition to the many new transfer opportunities, Owens continues to increase its academic and support services by making available an array of higher education choices through the Weekend College and eOwens distance learning, as well as at The Source, Lucas County’s One-Stop Employment Center, in downtown Toledo and at the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee.

Carrots, lettuce, tomatoes and apples along with many other fruits and vegetables are also sprouting up for the first time on the Owens Toledo-area Campus as the academic institution expands its experiential learning opportunities for students, as well as faculty and staff in various academic departments and disciplines through the creation of a new Community Garden. Owens will also unveil several new or renovated instructional classrooms on the Toledo-area Campus for the start of the fall term. The experiential learning areas are all equipped with innovative multimedia capability and computing resources, including an array of software applications and programming languages, as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

Additionally, Owens women’s soccer will debut this fall as a Division II member of the NJCAA. The Express will primarily compete against other colleges and universities from Ohio, Michigan and Pennsylvania, including Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, Lorain County Community College, Schoolcraft College, Delta College and Mercyhurst North East, among others. Owens’ Soccer Complex serves as the home venue for the new intercollegiate athletic program and the first match in team history will occur on Sunday, Aug. 28 against Mercyhurst North East.

With the start of the 2011 fall season, the Express women’s soccer program becomes the eighth intercollegiate athletic program offered at Owens. The seven other sports include men’s baseball, women’s softball, men’s golf, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, men’s soccer and women’s volleyball.

Owens will also welcome hundreds of students participating in the College Foundation’s Success Program, which includes Lake High School and all graduating high school students from public schools in Hancock County, to the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses for Fall Semester classes. Other Success Program partnering high schools include Whitmer High School and all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district. The Success Program is designed to assist students, who receive only partial state and federal financial aid, attend college and bridges the gap between the grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education.

Continuing to expand educational opportunities for students, Owens, this past spring, unveiled a newly expanded and renovated Owens Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo. The renovated educational facility now feature two new instructional classrooms and one open computer laboratory all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to enhance learning through hands-on instruction and exercises. Additionally, Owens recently opened the doors to a newly refurbished $1.1 million Welding Design Center, which features the latest in technological and academic resources specific to welding for several degree and certificate programs.

In 2010, Owens began the academic year by unveiling a newly renovated $2.9 million Heritage Hall building, which features the latest in academic resources. Heritage Hall (formerly known as the Penta Career Center Skill Center) serves as home to the College’s School of Business and the School of Nursing.

In addition to the recently completed Heritage Hall renovation project, the College unveiled a refurbished 29,045 square-foot Founders Hall at the former Penta Career Center in January 2010 as part of Owens’ ongoing campus expansion initiative. The $2.6 million Founders Hall building serves as the new home to the College’s departments of English, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Communications, Humanities and Languages, as well as the Dean for the School of Arts and Sciences.

Within the past two years, Owens broadened access to higher education opportunities for police, fire and emergency services personnel, as well as the military, by opening a $3.2 million Emergency Preparedness Training and Operations Center. In January 2010, Owens unveiled a new Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee to open new doors to a college education in Western Lucas County.

In the Hancock County area, Owens opened a $4.2 million Findlay-area Campus Community Education and Wellness Center in 2007 to complement the $17.7 million Findlay-area Campus, which opened in 2005.

To accommodate the needs of students, the College, within the last eight years, also opened an $11 million Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus. In 2007, Owens unveiled a $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness. The Center is the only state-of-the-art facility of this magnitude within the Midwest.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Unveils New $1.1 Million Welding Design Center

Posted on July 29th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College continues to expand access to higher educational opportunities within Northwest Ohio by unveiling a new $1.1 million Welding Design Center on the Toledo-area Campus. The new state-of-the-art educational center, which previously held Penta Career Center’s Welding and Automotive Collision Repair Labs, features the latest in technological and academic resources specific to welding for several degree and certificate programs.

The addition of a newly renovated Welding Design Center is a continuation of the College’s ongoing campus expansion initiative on the new south campus, which formerly was the home to Penta Career Center. Owens began the 2010-11 academic year by unveiling a $2.9 million Heritage Hall building. The 38,304 square-foot Heritage Hall (former Penta Career Center Skill Center) renovation project was preceded by the opening of a refurbished 29,045 square-foot Founders Hall (former Penta Career Center Administration Building) in January 2010. Both Heritage Hall and the $2.6 million Founders Hall are located on the new southern portion of campus.

“Owens Community College’s new Welding Design Center enables the Department of Manufacturing and Industrial Operations to more than double our degree and certificate program opportunities for area residents within the academic field of welding,” said Jim Gilmore, Owens Chair of Manufacturing and Industrial Operations. “The need for highly skilled welding professionals is greater than ever before. This newly renovated building, which is unlike any other educational welding facility of its kind in the region, will provide our students with the latest in academic resources to prepare them for careers within the welding industry.”

The renovated 14,512 square-foot Welding Design Center is situated south of Founders Hall and Heritage Hall on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens’ new educational facility features two dedicated instructional classrooms and two expansive experiential learning classroom areas for instruction and hands-on learning. The complex also includes three offices, a locker room area, and men’s and women’s restroom facilities.

Owens’ two expansive experiential learning classrooms house 60 welding booths, 12 cutting booths and eight grinding stations all with leading edge technology for students to receive hands-on training specific to SMAW (stick), GMAW (MIG) and GTAW (TIG) welding processes. Thirty-six booths have the capability of utilizing argon and carbon dioxide for welding purposes, while oxygen and acetylene are featured in 12 cutting booths. The Welding Design Center also includes a 1,813 square-foot storage complex for welding materials, which is located adjacent to the educational facility.

Additionally, 68 stations feature an innovative welding fume extraction system. The state-of-the-art technology is designed to extract metalworking particulate in a controlled direction, filter the particulate through a self-cleaning unit and re-circulate the filtered air throughout the new Welding Design Center. The recirculation of filtered air instead of exhausting non-filtered air to the outside enables the College to enhance energy efficiency and save on heating and cooling costs.

Owens’ Welding Design Center is utilized by students pursuing an associate’s degree in welding as well as GMAW welding, GTAW welding, SMAW welding and welding pre-certification certificates. Additional programs incorporating the Welding Design Center’s technology into their academic curriculum include automotive technology, advanced integrated manufacturing systems technologies, Caterpillar dealer service technician, diesel technology, John Deere technician and skilled trades technologies. Welding-specific academic specialty courses featured within the Welding Design Center include artistic welding, welding fabrication and advanced welding.

Experiential learning areas are also equipped with innovative multimedia capability for educational instruction highlighted by dedicated instructor stations in which Owens faculty can utilize an Extron Control Panel system. Serving as the classroom’s focal point from a technological standpoint, the Extron Control Panel system features a dedicated computer, a digital document camera, a Blu-ray DVD Player, and audio amplifier and speakers. Each academic area also house ceiling mounted digital/analog and high definition capable projectors and screens for instructional purposes and feature the latest in computing resources, including an array of software applications and programming languages as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

Designed with energy efficiency and conservation in mind, each room’s bank of lights automatically power down after a period of time without detected movement. The entire facility includes building automation heating and air conditioning. The newly renovated educational facility replaces Owens’ 24 combined welding, cutting and grinding stations, which were located within the College’s Transportation Technologies Center.

Owens’ new Welding Design Center is designed by the firms Stough and Stough Architects of Sylvania and MDA Engineering Inc. in Maumee. Midwest Contracting Inc. of Holland served as the general contractor.

In 2008, Owens marked a milestone in the academic institution’s history by purchasing the former Penta Career Center, which was adjacent to the College’s Toledo-area Campus, for $6 million. The purchase included 56.38 acres of land, as well as approximately 325,530 square feet of classrooms, offices, educational laboratories and parking lots.

In September 1965, Owens opened its doors as Penta County Technical Institute, the first technical institute in Ohio, with over 200 students enrolled. Seven years later, the College officially adopted the name of The Michael J. Owens Technical College (now Owens Community College).

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

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National Taichung Nursing College President to Visit Owens as Part of International Program, July 27

Posted on July 25th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – National Taichung Nursing College (Taichung, Taiwan) President Dr. Shieu-ming Chou will be visiting Owens Community College to further discuss educational opportunities and observe experiential learning activities specific to nursing as the two academic institutions continue their ongoing efforts to internationalize higher education on Wednesday, July 27.

National Taichung College President Chou’s visit to the College’s Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township is part of an international exchange program partnership established between Owens and its first-ever “sister school” abroad in 2008. The international exchange partnership was created with the overall goal of fostering enhanced learning at the respective academic institutions.

As part of the international exchange initiative, six students and one faculty member from National Taichung Nursing College annually attend Owens during the summer months to experience the traditions and culture of the United States, as well as to study western nursing practices through the School of Nursing’s academic curriculum. National Taichung Nursing College students and faculty, who are visiting as part of the U.S. Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program, learn about the concepts of caring, critical thinking skills, medical terminology, ethical issues and technology, among other educational topics during their visit.

In addition to Owens’ nursing education, exchange program participants have the chance to learn about the United States’ history and culture during an introduction to American culture class. National Taichung Nursing College students also tour several of the region’s health care and cultural settings as part of their three-week visit.

Beginning at 8 a.m. on Wednesday (July 27), President Chou will attend the special topics in nursing class with Owens and National Taichung Nursing College representatives in the College’s Heritage Hall building. The class will conclude at 12 p.m. Additionally, President Chou’s itinerary includes meetings with Owens officials and a tour of the College’s Toledo-area Campus.

National Taichung Nursing College was established in 1955 as Taichung Vocational Senior High School of Nursing when the school began offering a three-year nursing program. In 2000, the school was promoted as the National Taichung Nursing College. Based on the beliefs of Florence Nightingale, the founder of nursing, the academic institution is dedicated to cultivating advanced nursing professionals that exhibit the qualities and attributes of the true spirit of nursing; humanity to care for life and society; capability to mediate and solve problems; creativity, diligence and a willingness to learn and grow; and a broad vision. National Taichung Nursing College currently offers both two- and five-year diplomas in nursing.

In addition to Owens’ collaboration with National Taichung Nursing College, the College has established an international partnership with Ningbo Polytechnic in Ningbo, China. In May, nine Owens students had the opportunity to travel to China to participate in the College’s first China Study Tour. While at Ningbo Polytechnic, Owens students attended language and history classes and participated in several cultural activities including tea leaf picking, Chinese paper cutting and knot tying, calligraphy and the Chinese opera, among others.

Owens continues to serve as a leader in providing higher education to international students. Over 100 students from 25 countries are pursuing a higher education at Owens. Countries represented in Owens’ international student enrollment are Kenya, Egypt, China, Korea, India, Venezuela, Brazil, Columbia, Serbia and Turkey, among others.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College and Ohio Northern University Announce New Transfer Agreement Business Partnership

Posted on July 21st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students with aspirations of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business from Ohio Northern University will now be able to continue their academic pursuits at the four-year academic institution as the two schools have finalized a new transfer agreement partnership.

The new agreement is designed to help in managing transfer policies, enhancing advising and simply the transfer of academic courses or credits between Owens and Ohio Northern’s James F. Dicke College of Business Administration. As a result of the collaboration, Owens students will have the opportunity to transfer approximately 90 quarter (60 semester hours) credit of academic coursework toward the Bachelor of Science of Business Administration program at Ohio Northern. Owens students will have approximately 60 semester hours of remaining Ohio Northern academic coursework to complete their bachelor’s degree.

Owens students are required to meet pre-established criteria to be admitted to the College of Business Administration at Ohio Northern. Individuals earning an associate degree and completing the new transfer program will be able to enroll as a junior in Ohio Northern’s College of Business Administration program. Prospective students must enroll at Ohio Northern within four years of the start of their associate degree.

“Owens Community College is pleased to collaborate with Ohio Northern University and provide new educational opportunities for the Northwest Ohio region,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “Both academic institutions are committed to the same values of academic excellence and innovation and this new partnership further aligns those educational philosophies for the betterment for our students.”

Dr. James Fenton Jr., Dean of the College of Business Administration at Ohio Northern University, added, “Ohio Northern University’s College of Business Administration looks forward to collaborating with Owens Community College in advancing the academic capabilities of Owens’ graduates through the completion of Ohio Northern’s four-year business degree program.”

For more information about the new transfer partnership, call (567) 661-7189 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7189, or (419) 772-2260.

The James F. Dicke College of Business Administration at Ohio Northern University creates tomorrow’s leaders who are ethical, entrepreneurial and engaged. The college is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International. This is the highest and most sought after accreditation for business programs in higher education. The college offers majors in accounting, finance, international business and economics, management, marketing and pharmaceutical business. Qualified accounting majors can add a fifth year and earn a Master of Professional Practice in Accounting with distinctive tracks. Students choose between two tracks: forensic accounting or a tax track. Both prepare graduates to sit for the CPA exam.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College’s First Community Garden Creates New Learning Opportunities for Students and Employees

Posted on July 13th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Carrots, lettuce, tomatoes and apples along with many other fruits and vegetables are sprouting up on the Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus as the academic institution expands its experiential learning opportunities through the creation of a new Community Garden.

According to Krista Kiessling, Owens Adjunct Instructor in Social and Behavioral Sciences and Coordinator of the Community Garden, the new Owens Community College Community Garden is designed to create collaborative learning opportunities for students as well as faculty and staff in various academic departments and disciplines.

“The experiential and service learning possibilities for the new Community Garden are endless,” stated Kiessling. “Participants can cultivate interests and educational initiatives that could include therapeutic gardening, organic food production, urban gardening sustainability and community gardening or food production, among many others.”

For Owens student Hannah Jacobs of Luckey, the opportunity to spend some time outside volunteering at the new Community Garden turned out to be a very relaxing experience.

“I really enjoy gardening,” said Jacobs, who also serves as the Owens Environmental Club Vice President and is an Eastwood High School graduate. “The new Community Garden provides a great learning opportunity for the campus community. I’m sort of a green thumb as I enjoy planting flowers around my home.”

Owens’ new experiential learning classroom, which is located south of the College’s Welding Design Center on the Toledo-area Campus, features six four feet by eight feet raised planters for herbs, tomatoes, peppers and specialty crops and two expansive beds that house cucumbers, squash and melons for growing purposes. An apple tree, two high bush blueberries and a compost area are also included within the new Community Garden. The preliminary design was created by the Owens faculty members Chris Foley and Matt Ross within the College’s Landscape and Turfgrass Management Program.

Additionally, the new Community Garden is attended and cultivated by Owens’ students and employees and produce will be utilized by such organizations as the College’s Terrace View Café and AVI Foodsystems.

“Community gardening is growing extremely popular within this region and Owens Community College is excited to play an important role in educating our students as well as the surrounding communities about its many benefits, such as exercise, social interaction, a nutritious food source, hands-on education and resource conservation,” added Kiessling.

For those individuals and/or community organizations interested in participating in the new Community Garden project, call (419) 344-5768.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

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Owens and Community Partners Assist Area Children With School Supply Drive, July 18 – Aug. 18

Posted on July 12th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association in collaboration with Books-A-Million Inc., two Walt Churchill’s Market locations, three Great Lakes Credit Union branches and five Genoa Bank branches are reaching out to area children in need of school supplies by holding a month-long “Backpack to the Future” School Supply Drive beginning on Monday, July 18. Collected items will benefit low-income kindergarten-age school children throughout Northwest Ohio.

The “Backpack to the Future” School Supply Drive will occur at the Books-A-Million bookstore (2105 Levis Commons Blvd.) located in The Town Center at Levis Commons in Perrysburg; three Great Lakes Credit Union branches (5823 Monroe St.) in Sylvania, (580 Craig Dr.) in Perrysburg and (1890 N. Wilkenson Way) at the O-I Plaza in Perrysburg; two Walt Churchill’s Market locations (3320 Briarfield Blvd.) in Maumee and (26625 Dixie Hwy.) in Perrysburg; and five Genoa Bank branches (801 Main St.) in Genoa, (3201 Navarre Ave.) in Oregon, (703 Conant St.) in Maumee, (24950 W. State Route 51) in Millbury and (9920 Old U.S. 20) in Rossford. The 10 community locations expand the College’s educational initiative for individuals to drop off their donations. Among the charitable items that will be accepted as part of the school supply drive are gently-used or new backpacks, crayons, markers, bottles of glue, glue sticks, colored pencils, pencils, pink erasers, school boxes, pocket folders, marbled covered composition books and Kleenex tissues.

According to Kaye Koevenig, Owens Alumni Association Community Service Chair, the Northwest Ohio community’s initial response toward the “Backpack to the Future” Supply Drive has been very positive.

“Owens’ ‘Backpack to the Future’ school supply drive initiative has expanded efforts thanks to the support of Books-A-Million, Walt Churchill’s Market, Genoa Bank and Great Lakes Credit Union,” she stated. “I encourage area residents to lend a helping hand to those children who are in need of school supplies.”

Since establishing the program in 2004, the Owens Alumni Association has given over 1,930 backpacks and over 34,410 school supplies to benefit disadvantaged children throughout Northwest Ohio.

In addition to the community supply drive locations, area residents can bring their charitable donations to the College’s Office of Alumni Relations on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township, the Student Services Center on the Findlay-area Campus in Findlay and the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee. For more information about the school supply drive, or to make a donation, contact the Alumni Relations Office at (567) 661-7876, 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7876 or alumni@owens.edu.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College and Clear Channel Radio Partner to Provide Free College Education

Posted on June 30th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College and four Clear Channel radio stations are partnering in a contest to award a free college education to four area residents, with two winners receiving the grand prize of two semesters of free Owens tuition.

The promotion is airing on radio stations 92.5 Kiss FM, 104.7 WIOT, 101.5 The River and 103.7 CKY and is open to area residents until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, July 20.

“Thanks to the generosity of Clear Channel Radio, four individuals will be able to experience a quality higher education for free at Owens Community College,” said Dr. Gary Corrigan, Owens Director of Marketing and Communications.

Individuals can enter the contest by logging onto any of five websites – www.owens.edu ( http://www.owens.edu/ ), www.925kissfm.com ( http://www.925kissfm.com/ ), www.wiot.com ( http://www.wiot.com/ ), www.1015theriver.com ( http://www.1015theriver.com/ )or www.1037wcky.com ( http://www.1037wcky.com/ )– clicking on the “Tuition is Right” and correctly answering the entry question.

Applicants also can enter by completing a paper entry form, which is available at the Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses as well as at The Source Learning Center in downtown Toledo and the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee.

All qualifying entrants will be eligible to attend the first final on Tuesday, July 26 at 3 p.m. at the Community Education and Wellness Center on the Owens Findlay-area Campus in Findlay. One grand prize of two semesters of free tuition and one runner-up prize of one semester of free tuition will be awarded by random draw.

All qualifying entrants who do not win a tuition prize July 26 will be eligible to attend the second final on Wednesday, July 27 at 6 p.m. at the Student Health and Activities Center on the Owens Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. The second grand prize of two semesters of free tuition and final runner-up prize of one semester of free tuition also will be awarded by random draw.

The finals also will feature other valuable prizes drawn at random as well as free food and games.

Andy Stuart, Vice President & Market Manager of Clear Channel Radio Toledo/Findlay, looks forward to a ninth tuition promotion with Owens Community College.

“Our stations entertain thousands of listeners daily, but it’s these types of partnerships that are really satisfying,” he said. “The Tuition is Right positively impacts the lives of the four winners and encourages all individuals to strive for a higher education and a better life.”

Open to residents 16 years of age or older, the contest marks the 10th time since 2003 that Owens has partnered with Northwest Ohio media and offered a tuition contest.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College President Dr. Larry G. McDougle Announces Retirement Plans

Posted on June 14th, 2011

President Dr. Lary McDougle

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College Board of Trustees and Dr. Larry G. McDougle have mutually agreed to announce his plans to retire at the conclusion of his contract effective June 30, 2012. The announcement was made during the Owens Board of Trustees regular June meeting.

“President Dr. Larry McDougle’s leadership has been invaluable in furthering Owens Community College’s mission and vision of providing a superior academic experience through excellence, innovation and collaboration,” said Dee Talmage, Chair of the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. “The Board of Trustees looks forward to continuing to work with President McDougle to meet the educational needs of students throughout the Northwest Ohio region in the coming year and receiving his guidance during the search process for the next President of Owens Community College.”

According to Board of Trustees Chair Talmage, a national search will be conducted to replace Dr. McDougle as President of Owens Community College.

“Owens Community College Board of Trustees intends to enter into an agreement for professional services with the global firm Heidrick & Struggles to assist in conducting the presidential search,” said Board of Trustees Chair Talmage. “Heidrick & Struggles International Inc. has a long and storied history of conducting searches worldwide. The firm has extensive experience and a strong understanding of higher education and we look forward to working with them during the new 2011-12 academic year. The Board of Trustees ultimate goal is to have a new President in place prior to President McDougle’s retirement.”

“On any given day, Owens Community College impacts the lives of thousands by providing access to innovative academic resources and learning opportunities to prepare them for today’s ever-changing economy. It is truly an honor to serve as President of Owens Community College,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, President of Owens Community College. “The Board of Trustees and I decided that the time was right to announce my retirement plans, affording an entire year for the presidential search process.”

President McDougle, “I am really looking forward to the upcoming academic year and the possibility of even greater collaboration, partnerships and joint regional ventures among area academic institutions, as well as with business and industry, to strengthen our efficiency and effectiveness. There are many outstanding colleges, universities and businesses throughout Northwest Ohio and I foresee even greater educational initiatives ahead, which will further enhance and support our region’s economic development.”

Dr. McDougle was named the fifth President in the 46-year history of Owens Community College in June 2010. Prior to his appointment, he served as the College’s Interim President for six months.

Other initiatives include the opening of a new Faculty Development Center on Toledo-area Campus, as well as unveiling a new wind turbine and solar array on the Findlay-area Campus. Additionally, Owens is implementing a new Energy Strategic Plan, which is projected to annually reduce energy by over 20 percent once the initiative is fully operational, and further enhanced educational services for students through the creation of an OServe area. In addition, a new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program was unveiled in March 2010. The program is designed to provide graduating high school students achieving academic excellence at the highest level the opportunity to pursue a free college education.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Golf Outing Raises Over $5,000 in Support of Honor Flight Northwest Ohio

Posted on May 24th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Eighty-four area residents recently enjoyed a day of golf and entertainment in support of Honor Flight Northwest Ohio as Owens Community College’s Leadership Academy group Team Commodores held its inaugural golf classic. The 21-team event netted over $5,000 to benefit the Honor Flight Northwest Ohio initiative.

“Owens Community College is proud to host a community-wide event in which the proceeds benefit such a worthy cause as Honor Flight Northwest Ohio,” said Barb Seguine, Owens Chair of Occupational Therapy Assistant and Event Co-Coordinator. “The golf outing was a huge success and would not have been possible without the overwhelming support of the surrounding communities. Their generous contributions will go a long way in sending even more veterans of Northwest Ohio to Washington D.C. to see the memorials built and dedicated in their honor.”

The championship team of the four-person scramble included Jason Reier, Laura Reier, Kevin Swartzell and Ryan Pickerel.

Founded in 2007, Honor Flight Northwest Ohio has safely flown over 460 veterans to Washington D.C.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Announces Plans for Academic Institution’s First Community Garden

Posted on May 18th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Carrots, lettuce, tomatoes and apples along with many other fruits and vegetables will soon be sprouting up on the Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus as the academic institution announces plans for a new Community Garden.

The new Community Garden will be located at the convergence of D Street and 3rd Street, which is south of the College’s Welding Design Center on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College’s new Community Garden is designed to create collaborative learning opportunities for students as well as faculty and staff in various academic departments and disciplines,” said Krista Kiessling, Owens Adjunct Instructor in Social and Behavioral Sciences and Coordinator of the Community Garden. “The experiential and service learning possibilities for the new Community Garden are endless. Participants will be able to cultivate interests and educational initiatives that could include therapeutic gardening, organic food production, urban gardening sustainability and community gardening or food production, among many others.”

Kiessling added, “Community gardening is growing extremely popular within this region and Owens Community College is excited to play an important role in educating our students as well as the surrounding communities about its many benefits, such as exercise, social interaction, a nutritious food source, hands-on education and resource conservation.”

Beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 23, Owens representatives will be preparing the soil and planting the first vegetables within the College’s new Community Garden. Work is expected to conclude at 2:30 p.m.

Owens’ new experiential learning classroom will feature six four feet by eight feet raised planters for herbs, tomatoes, peppers and specialty crops and two expansive beds, which will house cucumbers, squash and melons for growing purposes. An apple tree, two high bush blueberries and a compost area will also be included within the new Community Garden. The preliminary design was created by the Owens faculty members Chris Foley and Matt Ross within the College’s Landscape and Turfgrass Management Program.

According to Kiessling, the new Community Garden will be attended and cultivated by Owens’ students and employees and produce will be utilized by such organizations as the College’s Terrace View Café and AVI Foodsystems.

“There is also the possibility of creating an on-campus farmer’s market to sell the produce as a Community Garden fundraiser,” she explained.

For those individuals and/or community organizations interested in participating in the new Community Garden project, call (419) 344-5768.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College School of Technology Unveils Academic Institution’s First College Mace and Presidential Medallion

Posted on April 29th, 2011

Both the College Mace and Presidential Medallion were created by the College's School of Technology faculty and staff and will be used for the first time during Owens' upcoming Spring Commencement ceremony on Friday, May 6.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is commemorating and honoring its heritage and mission of meeting the higher education and training needs of the surrounding communities throughout Northwest Ohio by unveiling the academic institution’s first College Mace and Presidential Medallion.

Both the College Mace and Presidential Medallion were created by the College’s School of Technology faculty and staff and recently presented to the Board of Trustees during their regular meeting. The presentation and unveiling of the new College Mace and Presidential Medallion is taking place in conjunction with April serving as National Community College Month. The academic institution’s new College Mace and Presidential Medallion will be used for the first time during Owens’ upcoming Spring Commencement ceremony on Friday, May 6. Owens Professor of Math Doug Cook of Perrysburg will serve as the College’s first Mace Bearer, while the Presidential Medallion will be worn by Owens President Dr. Larry McDougle.

“Owens Community College’s School of Technology is extremely pleased and honored to present the academic institution’s first College Mace and Presidential Medallion to the Board of Trustees and President Dr. Larry McDougle,” said Randy Wharton, Owens Chair of Design Technologies and Co-Interim Dean of the School of Technology. “The College Mace and Presidential Medallion are enduring symbols of higher education and are now part of this College’s rich tradition and heritage.”

The College Mace, which features materials of glass, steel and aluminum with colors of the academic schools and the College, serves as a visible symbol of the inception of Owens chartered for the success of students and communities that it serves. Symbolically, the College Mace serves as a permanent symbol of the authority of the institution. The College Mace is carried by a distinguished member of the institution who precedes the College’s President, Board of Trustees and dignitaries during commencement and other ceremonial processions. Additionally, the College Mace will have a designated place of honor signifying the opening and closing of ceremonial sessions. Inspired by the College’s namesake Michael J. Owens, a Toledo inventor who changed the glass industry forever by mechanizing bottle blowing in 1903, the College Mace prominently features a black gear from an Owens-Illinois glass blowing machine to represent Toledo’s significance and rich history to the glass industry.

In higher education, the Presidential Medallion, which is silver in color with the College’s seal in red, symbolizes the President’s responsibility and leadership of the academic institution. The Presidential Medallion is worn with academic regalia by the President for commencement and other ceremonies, including those at other academic institutions that they participate in as a representative of Owens Community College. The Presidential Medallion serves as permanent symbol of the office of the President and Chief Executive Officer.

Owens School of Technology representatives instrumental in the design and creation of the College Mace and Presidential Medallion are Professor of Design Technologies Reed Knowles of Toledo, Manufacturing Technologies Lab Technician Peter Johns of Oregon, Instructor of Design Technologies Alan Bethea of Toledo and Chair of Design Technologies and Co-Interim Dean of the School of Technology Randy Wharton of Perrysburg. Both the one-of-kind College Mace and Presidential Medallion were handcrafted by Owens faculty and staff through a process that included rough sketches and drawings, computer-aided design technology drawings, prototype creation and parts fabrication using computer numerical controlled machining and assembly. Additionally, local artist and owner of Village Glass in Sylvania Mike Wallace contributed his artistic glass blowing talents to College Mace project.

Owens officially opened its doors as Penta County Technical Institute on Sept. 13, 1965. Founded on a 50-acre plot of land known as the old Rossford Army Depot, the College opened to nearly 200 students in its first year of existence. Forty-six years later, thousands of students are pursuing their academic and career aspirations each semester on the College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-campuses, as well as at the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo and at the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

New Owens Community College Partnership Brings Free Computer Classes to Northwest Ohio

Posted on April 18th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in enhancing their knowledge and skills with computers and the Internet are invited to participate in new continuing education computer classes through Owens Community College during the months of May and June as the academic institution announces a new educational partnership with the non-profit Connect Ohio organization.

The new educational initiative, titled Every Citizen Online, is being led by Connect Ohio as part of a $6.9 million federal grant the organization has received to help expand access to broadband Internet to consumers across the state.

“Owens Community College is pleased to partner with Connect Ohio to provide free computer classes to members of the communities we serve,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services at Owens. “Increasing access to technology through computers and broadband Internet can enhance the quality of life and creates greater educational opportunities in our area.”

Owens will offer free hands-on computer classes at four Northwest Ohio locations beginning in May as part of the Every Citizen Online project. The four locations are the Owens Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, the Owens Learning Center at Arrowhead Park in Maumee, the Owens Findlay-area Campus in Findlay and the Wood County Courthouse in Bowling Green.

The initial computer class will take place on Thursday, May 5 at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee. Owens’ first class will begin at 5:30 p.m. and cover computer basics, an introduction to the Internet and discussion about how broadband can be helpful in daily life. Classes will also occur at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 10 at the Owens Learning Center at The Source, at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 13 at the Wood County Courthouse and at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17 at the Owens Learning Center at Arrowhead Park. Additional dates will be scheduled during the months of May and June.

Connect Ohio is a non-profit public-private partnership, whose mission is to see all Ohioans connected to the benefits of high-speed Internet service. The organization’s federal grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP).

For more information, or to register for the free classes, individuals can contact the College’s Workforce and Community Services at (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS extension 7357.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Receives Ottawa Hills Fire Truck and Equipment Donation

Posted on April 8th, 2011

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PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The village of Ottawa Hills Fire and Rescue Department recently made a commitment to the future of emergency preparedness training in the region by donating a 1986 Ford Grumman Fire Engine and equipment to Owens Community College’s School of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and the Center for Emergency Preparedness.

The donated fire engine and equipment will be used to provide comprehensive, repeatable safety training for first responders related to various emergency response techniques. First responders will be able to conduct a variety of emergency response scenarios, including the controlling of a fire within a multi-story building, roof access, and fire fighting and rescue techniques from upper floors.

“Owens Community College is very appreciative to the village of Ottawa Hills and their commitment to experiential learning at the Center for Emergency Preparedness,” said Michele Johnson, Owens Chair of the School of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. “The fire truck will have an immediate impact on providing our region’s first responders with the highest level in real-world, scenario training.”

According to Ottawa Hills Mayor Kevin Gilmore, the donation was made possible as a result of the Ottawa Hills Toledo Fire agreement for fire protection and will extend the life of the emergency vehicle by enabling it to be used for educational training purposes.

“The village of Ottawa Hills is extremely pleased to be able to work with Owens Community College and reach out and help the entire region of first responders with this donation,” stated Mayor Gilmore.

Before making its final trip to Owens’ Center for Emergency Preparedness, the apparatus provided over 12 years of emergency response service to citizens within the village of Ottawa Hills and mutual aid to surrounding communities. The fire truck and equipment will now be used as a hands-on educational training prop for the Center’s various scenario-based simulators.

In 2007, Owens marked a milestone in the academic institution’s history by opening a $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness. The Center for Emergency Preparedness fulfills a need for a rather expansive complex within the region that can provide “real-world” training in a safe and controlled environment. Training scenarios that can be conducted within the new facility include those related to natural and manmade disasters involving hazardous materials, confined spaces, riots, entrapments and weapons of mass destruction, among others. Currently, there is no higher education facility for multi agencies to conduct concurrent emergency response training of this magnitude in the Midwest.

Since opening the facility, many police, fire and emergency services personnel, as well as the military, from Ohio and beyond, including the FBI, Ohio National Guard and Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, have utilized the facility for either specialized or concurrent emergency preparedness training.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens’ Community Terrace View CafÈ Announces First-Ever Friday Evening Takeout Menu Selections, April 1-29

Posted on March 21st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents indecisive about Friday evening dinner can now consider a delectable meal from Owens Community College as the hospitality management and culinary arts programs expand their experiential learning opportunities to include takeout menu selections in the community Terrace View CafÈ during the month of April.

The student-run Terrace View CafÈ is open to the public during the academic year. Owens’ restaurant, which is coordinated by the Department of Food, Nutrition and Hospitality, is located in College Hall Room 148 on the Toledo-area Campus. Area residents will be able to pick up their meals from 6-7 p.m. in the Terrace View CafÈ. The cost per takeout is only $5 and reservations are required. Beverages are not included with the takeout meal.

The menu selections were planned by culinary arts students in the American Regional Cuisine class led by Owens Chef Bill Powell.

“Owens Community College is excited to offer new educational opportunities for our students by announcing the Terrace View CafÈ’s first-ever Friday evening takeout menu selections,” said Chef Bill Powell, Owens Assistant Professor of Food, Nutrition and Hospitality. “I encourage area residents to take a Friday evening off from cooking and experience an array of regional food discoveries as prepared by our exceptional students.”

The Terrace View CafÈ will be available to guests starting Friday, April 1 with a regional mountain states cuisine that features grilled lamb brochette as the entrÈe. Upcoming Friday evening takeout dates and entrÈe listings include April 8 (grilled game hen), April 15 (barbecued ribs), April 22 (pork teriyaki with pineapple) and April 29 (chicken and sausage gumbo). A complete listing of dishes is available at www.owens.edu/terrace.

Owens culinary arts program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the rapidly growing culinary arts industry. Both the associate’s degree and certificate prepares students for food preparation positions in restaurants, hotels, health care facilities, resorts and country clubs.

In addition to culinary arts, the College offers an associate’s degree in hospitality management. As part of the program, students are provided with the skills and educational curriculum for a successful career in the diverse areas of hospitality management. Owens’ hospitality management program prepares students for management and supervisory positions in hotels, restaurants, resorts and institutions.

Recently, Owens’ Department of Food, Nutrition and Hospitality unveiled a new baking and pastry certificate program for those individuals interested in becoming a professional baker or pastry chef.

Reservations must be made by 3 p.m. on the Friday prior to the Friday takeout. For additional information about Owens’ Terrace View CafÈ Friday menu selections, call (567) 661-7359 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7359. Individuals can also make a reservation by accessing the College’s website at www.owens.edu/terrace.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College to Receive Ottawa Hills Fire Truck and Equipment Donation, March 18

Posted on March 17th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The village of Ottawa Hills Fire and Rescue Department is making a commitment to the future of emergency preparedness training in the region by donating a 1986 Ford Grumman Fire Engine and equipment to Owens Community College’s School of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and the Center for Emergency Preparedness.

The two organizations will officially announce the donation at a vehicle and key presentation ceremony on Friday, March 18 at 3 p.m. in the Center for Emergency Preparedness on the College’s Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

In 2007, Owens marked a milestone in the academic institution’s history by opening a $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness. The Center for Emergency Preparedness fulfills a need for a rather expansive complex within the region that can provide “real-world” training in a safe and controlled environment. Training scenarios that can be conducted within the new facility include those related to natural and manmade disasters involving hazardous materials, confined spaces, riots, entrapments and weapons of mass destruction, among others. Currently, there is no higher education facility for multi agencies to conduct concurrent emergency response training of this magnitude in the Midwest.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Registered Nursing Associate Degree Program Awarded Ohio Board of Nursing Full Approval For New Five-Year Term

Posted on March 14th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College registered nursing associate degree program on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses has earned the distinction of receiving full approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing for a new five-year term. A full approval is the highest level that a nursing education program can achieve from the Ohio Board of Nursing.The College’s registered nursing program has been approved continuously by the Ohio Board of Nursing since 1971.

Owens’ program earned the new five-year full approval by the Ohio Board of Nursing after an examination of the program’s adherence to rules and regulations set forth by the governing organization. The Ohio Board of Nursing regulates nursing education programs in Ohio that prepares students for initial licensure as a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.

“I am extremely proud of our School of Nursing faculty and staff for their hard work and dedication in achieving full approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “Full approval from the Ohio Board of Nursing recognizes and demonstrates Owens Community College’s commitment to providing an excellent academic program that benefits both our students and the health care community.”

Additionally, the registered nursing associate degree program has received Candidacy Status from the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). As a result, the NLNAC has invited Owens’ registered nursing program to complete and submit a written self-study in the multi-step process of achieving accreditation. Once the self-study is completed, an NLNAC site visit will be conducted and a governing board review will take place to determine the College’s registered nursing program’s accreditation status.

Established in 1969 as one of the first associate degree programs of its kind in Northwest Ohio, the School of Nursing’s registered nursing program has a rich and storied history of providing highly qualified health care professionals who are working in acute care agencies, physician offices, long-term care agencies and outpatient ambulatory areas throughout the region and beyond.

Owens’ registered nursing program requires 73 credit hours of coursework. Following graduation, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure examination and upon passage are licensed to practice nursing in the state of Ohio.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College to Host Utility-Scale Wind Power Training Information Session in Kenton, March 17

Posted on March 9th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents interested in gaining skills geared toward operation and maintenance of utility-scale wind turbines are invited to enroll in a free specialized training offered as part of a partnership with Owens Community College, the Hardin County Commissioners and American Electric Power (AEP).

An information session about the 272-hour course will occur from 5-6 p.m. on Thursday, March 17 at the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance, which is located at 225 S. Detroit St. in Kenton. Owens representatives will be on hand to answer questions about the training. The actual course will take place April 4 – June 6.

“Owens Community College is excited to collaborate with American Electric Power and the Hardin County Commissioners and offer this education training opportunity, which will enhance the skills of the local workforce as the wind power generation industry continues to grow within the region,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services.

The Utility-Scale Wind Power Equipment Maintenance Technician Training will introduce students to a variety of skills required to operate and maintain utility-scale wind turbines. Educational curriculum will include workplace safety practices, electricity, hydraulics, motor controls, power distribution, and working at heights and in confined spaces.

The course will split time between a location in Kenton (classroom lecture) and the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus (laboratory). On days when class is held in Findlay, transportation will be provided to students at no cost to them from Kenton and back at the end of the day.

Selection of students will be based on objective criteria, including math and reading skills, as well as eligibility guidelines established by American Electric Power. Hardin County residents are especially encouraged to participate in the selection process.

For additional information about the course, call (567) 661-2174 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2174. Those interested in attending the information session are encouraged to register prior to March 17 at wcs@owens.edu.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College and Walsh College Announce New Online Transfer Agreement Business Partnership

Posted on March 8th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students with aspirations of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business from Walsh College in Troy, Mich. will now be able to continue their academic pursuits through online learning as the two schools have finalized a new transfer agreement partnership.

As a result of the new collaboration, Owens students will have the opportunity to seamlessly transfer 82 credit hours of academic coursework toward Walsh Bachelor of Business Administration degrees in management, finance, marketing and general business that can be obtained entirely online. Upon completion of the 82 credit hours at Owens, students will have approximately 45 credit hours of remaining Walsh academic coursework to complete their bachelor’s degree.

Additionally, Owens students will have the ability to continue their online studies toward graduate business degrees from Walsh. The new transfer agreement will also afford Owens students, who meet the requisite grade point average, to participate in the Walsh Honors Fast Track program. The Honors Fast Track program is designed to allow students to complete their Owens associate’s degree, Walsh Bachelor of Business Administration degree and Walsh Master of Business Administration degree in five years.

“Owens Community College is proud to collaborate with Walsh College and provide our students with an opportunity to continue their higher education and achieve their goals,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “Walsh College is known internationally as a leader in business education. This partnership benefits the citizens of the region and helps to create a well prepared workforce.”

Dr. Karen Rhoda, Dean of the Division of Online Learning at Walsh College, added, “Walsh College is very pleased to offer the opportunity for Owens Community College students to build upon their associate degree to earn a Walsh bachelor’s degree and to transfer seamlessly into Walsh’s online degree programs. We understand the need of students to earn their bachelor’s degree online, and are here to support students in their academic goals.”

On Tuesday, March 15, Walsh College representatives will be participating in Owens’ Transfer Fair event on the Toledo-area Campus. The Transfer Fair will occur from 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. in the hallway adjacent to the Library. Individuals from Walsh will be visiting the Owens Toledo-area Campus a second time to discuss transfer opportunities on Wednesday, April 13. The admissions event will also take place in the hallway adjacent to the Library from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

For more information about the new transfer partnership, call (567) 661-7189 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7189, or (248) 823-1610.

Established in 1922, Walsh College is a private, non-profit, upper-division all-business college that offers bachelor, master and doctoral programs to 4,500 students at three campuses, two teaching locations and online. Faculty members integrate application and theory to prepare students for successful corporate and entrepreneurial careers, and employers value and seek out Walsh graduates for their practical business education. Walsh cultivates student and alumni entrepreneurs through the Blackstone LaunchPad and furthers education among the business community through The Walsh Institute. For more information, visit www.walshcollege.edu.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

New Partnership Allows Owens Community College Students to Pursue a Lourdes College Four-Year Business Degree on Toledo-area Campus

Posted on March 7th, 2011

Owens Community College students will soon have the opportunity to take a portion of their Lourdes College classes in pursuit of their Bachelor of Science Degree in business without leaving the Toledo-area Campus as the two academic institutions announce a new innovative partnership.

The new initiative represents a unique educational collaboration between a public and private institution, allowing Owens Community College students to obtain bachelor’s degree-specific course credit from Lourdes College’s faculty on the Toledo-area Campus. Lourdes’ bachelor’s degree courses at Owens will be held in a College Hall academic classroom.

“Owens Community College is pleased to further its longstanding partnership with Lourdes College and announce a new joint academic initiative, which opens new doors to higher educational opportunities for students,” states Owens Community College Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Renay Scott. “Many of our students have indicated a desire for an on-site bachelor degree program at Owens. We are thrilled to provide Owens Community College students the opportunity to take their first steps toward a bachelor’s degree at Lourdes College on the Toledo-area Campus.”

Students who enroll in the bachelor’s degree program will pursue a majority of their Lourdes credit hours at Owens and can choose from the following eight business majors: Accounting, Accounting and Finance, Business Administration, Health Care Administration, Human Resource Management, Integrated Business, Marketing and Management. To help make earning a Lourdes bachelor’s degree more affordable, qualifying students will be awarded Pathways scholarships – renewable merit-based scholarships providing up to $2,000 of tuition assistance per academic year.

“We are thrilled to bring this vehicle for pursuing our Bachelor of Science degree to Owens,” expresses Dr. Janet Robinson, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Lourdes College. “This is a unique partnership in that it connects a public institution with a private institution – but the connection is really a perfect match. Both Lourdes and Owens place a strong emphasis on affordability and personalized attention. We have a long history of working together to ensure student success, and this is a terrific continuation of that effort.”

The Lourdes bachelor’s degree program will launch at Owens in fall 2011. For more information, visit www.lourdes.edu/owens or contact Admissions Coordinator Stacy Jenkins at 567-661-2566 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2566. Information will also be available at the following open houses:

Wednesday, March 23 from Noon to 2 p.m. – College Hall Atrium, Owens CC Toledo-area Campus
Tuesday, April 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. – College Hall Atrium, Owens CC Toledo-area Campus

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Local Schools Showcase Talents at Owens Tractor Troubleshooting Contest

Posted on March 3rd, 2011

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PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Twelve area high schools recently put their knowledge of tractors to the test during competition in the 18th annual FFA District I Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics Contest at Owens Community College.

Presented by the College’s Transportation Technologies, the contest involved high school teams, consisting of two students, completing a written examination and five practical skill events to determine their expertise of tractors. As part of the practical skills competition, teams were required to locate, identify and repair a malfunction on a specified tractor donated for the event.

“The participating high schools should be very proud of their students’ efforts as they competed at an extremely high level,” said Tracy Campbell, Owens Chair of Transportation Technologies. “This year’s competition was difficult. However, the students once again rose to the challenge and certainly showcased their knowledge and skills specific to the agricultural industry. Owens Community College is honored to collaborate with high schools throughout the region and provide a venue for such an exciting day of competition.”

The district championship went to Bryan Cajka of Luckey and Adam Wolf of Pemberville (Eastwood H.S.), while Ethan Gerken of Defiance and Taylor Wheeler of West Unity (Four County Career Center) finished in second place.

Other students and high schools involved in the competition and their order of finish were Codi Bird of Ayersville and Brandon Ordway of Continental (Ayersville H.S.), Coty Dufendock of Oak Harbor and Michael Stewart of Woodville (Penta Career Center), Cody Wickerham of Edgerton and Trent King of Edgerton (Edgerton H.S.), Poke Harrison of Grand Rapids and Bill Potter of Grand Rapids (Otsego H.S.), Joe Phillips of Oak Harbor and Cory Winer of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.), Tom Elgin of Bloomdale and Grant Harrison of Wayne (Elmwood H.S.), Aaron Cramer of Portage and Henry Apple of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.), Nathan Betz of Wauseon and Dexter Aeschliman of Wauseon (Pettisville H.S.), Austin Arps of Wauseon and Ross Andre of Wauseon (Wauseon H.S.), and Stephen Clark of Millbury and Seth Dufendock of Genoa (Genoa H.S.).

Local businesses donating tractors for the competition were Streacker Tractor Sales, Crosby Equipment, Eagle Machinery Inc., Caterpillar Inc., John Deere and Owens Community College.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

OwensCommunity College Closed for Mid-Semester Break, March 4-6

Posted on February 24th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and The Source Learning Center in downtown Toledo will be closed Friday-Sunday, March 4-6 for Mid-Semester Break. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed for business.

Administrative offices will be open again on Monday, March 7, while classes will resume on Monday, March 14.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Alumni Association Accepting Nominations for Outstanding Service Award Celebration Through March 4

Posted on February 23rd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is recognizing the tremendous contribution that area police, fire and emergency medical professionals make to Northwest Ohio’s surrounding communities by hosting the eighth annual Outstanding Service Awards. The recipients will be honored as part of a community celebration on Friday, April 29.

The College’s Alumni Association is presently accepting nominations for the Outstanding Service Awards. Area residents are invited to nominate an individual or individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations need to be returned to the College’s Office of Alumni Relations and Special Events by Friday, March 4. The award is not limited to a single recipient, and the College’s Alumni Association encourages the nomination of more than one person when teamwork was the key element in their success.

The eighth annual Outstanding Service Awards Celebration will begin at 8 a.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission is free and the public is encouraged to attend, however, reservations are required.

For more information about the Outstanding Service Award Celebration, or the nomination process, contact the College’s Alumni Relations and Special Events Office at (567) 661-7410 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7410.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Dental Hygiene Program Brightens Smiles During Nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day

Posted on February 15th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Oral hygiene, pearly white teeth and smiling faces were abundant at Owens Community College as nearly 100 area children received free dental service courtesy of the Dental Hygiene program as part of the nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day.

For eight-year-old Victoria Wilson of Perrysburg, the best part of her “teeth-cleaning” experience centered around which toothbrush and toothpaste she was going receive as take-home gifts.

“I am hoping for a pink toothbrush because pink is my favorite color,” explained Wilson. “And, my favorite kind of flavor toothpaste is mint.”

“I am very thankful that Owens Community College provides a day like Give Kids A Smile,” said Elizabeth Niederkorn of Northwood, whose two-year-old daughter Lydia and five-year-old son Cecil attended the event. “The health of a person’s teeth is so important. Teeth affect so much more than just your mouth. They can affect your overall health.”

“Give Kids A Smile Day provides a great opportunity to not only give back to the community, but also to raise the importance and awareness of preventive dental care such as flossing, brushing and regular dental visits,” said Beth Tronolone, Owens Chair of Dental Hygiene. “The event was once again a huge success as we were able to assist those children in need of proper care. The Owens Dental Hygiene program is extremely thankful to all of the community volunteers who gave of their time to make this day a huge success.”

Dental services available for free throughout the day included dental education and screening, X-rays, oral prophylaxis (cleanings), limited restorations and dental sealants. In addition, Owens students from the health program provided educational presentations for parents and children.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

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Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Celebrates Opening of New Student Services Center with Open House, Feb. 17

Posted on February 14th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College is inviting area residents to receive a tour of the latest educational addition to the Findlay-area Campus as the academic institution unveils a newly renovated Student Services Center as part of a community Open House event on Thursday, Feb. 17.

The Open House will take place from 3-5 p.m. in the College’s Student Services Center. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay. The event is free and open to the public.

“Owens’ newly renovated Student Services Center is a welcome addition to the Findlay-area Campus and will enable the College to provide enhanced services for current and future students,” said Angie McGinnis, Owens Director of Advising on the Findlay-area Campus.

Owens Director of Oserve Amy Giordano added, “The new educational area will support and promote student success at the highest level, ensuring that each individual has the necessary informational resources to excel in their educational pursuits.”

The renovated educational location features five new offices as well as an expanded reception/waiting area, which are all designed to assist students in realizing their academic and career aspirations. Both the offices of Student Development and Oserve are housed within the Student Services area and provide an array of services specific to current and future students’ academic needs, including advising, registration, financial aid and educational opportunities available on the Findlay-area Campus. The renovated area now features 24 offices for Owens’ Student Development and Oserve staff.

The renovation project was designed by the firms RCM Architects of Findlay and MDA Engineering Inc. of Maumee, while Clouse Construction Corp. of New Riegel served as the general contractor.

For more information about the Open House event, call (567) 429-3515 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3515.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 8th, 2011

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PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Diana H. Talmage and R J Molter to serve as the Chair and Vice Chair for the College’s Board of Trustees. Talmage and Molter were elected to their positions by their fellow colleagues during the recent Owens Board of Trustees meeting and will serve one-year terms.

A graduate of the University of Toledo with a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy, Molter serves as a Staff Pharmacist at Pills & Packages Pharmacy and is the former Co-Owner of M & M Pharmacy in Woodville. The Woodville resident was initially appointed to the College’s Board of Trustees in June 1972.

The College’s Board of Trustees is comprised of six community leaders from Lucas, Wood, Hancock and Sandusky counties who are appointed by the Governor of Ohio for six-year terms.

In addition to Talmage and Molter, Owens Board of Trustees members include David Habegger of Oregon, Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg and William E. Takacs of Toledo.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Announce Contract Extension For President Dr. Larry G. McDougle

Posted on February 8th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Board of Trustees and Dr. Larry G. McDougle have mutually agreed to a contract extension through June 30, 2012. The announcement was made during the Owens Board of Trustees regular February meeting.

“Owens Community College’s Board of Trustees is extremely pleased with Dr. Larry McDougle’s leadership, vision and unwavering commitment toward advancing this academic institution’s mission of providing higher educational opportunities that will benefit the Northwest Ohio region for years to come,” said Dee Talmage, Chair of the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. “For that reason, the Owens Community College Board of Trustees has asked Dr. McDougle to continue to lead Owens past his original contract and build upon the College’s strong foundation and reputation of academic excellence.”

“Owens Community College is an outstanding academic institution of higher learning,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, President of Owens Community College. “It is a privilege and truly an honor to represent our many students, faculty and staff as their President. I look forward to continuing to work with the campus community, as well as with fellow business, industry and academic partners, as we as a collective group help in shaping this region’s educational and economic future.”

Dr. McDougle was named the fifth President in the 46-year history of Owens Community College in June 2010. Prior to his appointment, he served as the College’s Interim President for six months.

During his tenure as Owens’ President, Dr. McDougle has worked tirelessly to reach out and engage Owens faculty, staff and students, as well as community and educational partners, with the purpose of advancing higher education for area residents throughout Northwest Ohio and beyond. Under his leadership, the College has expanded educational opportunities to Arrowhead Park in Maumee and unveiled a new Learning Center, as well as opened the doors to newly renovated Founders Hall and Heritage Hall buildings at the former Penta Career Center as part of the College’s ongoing campus expansion initiative. Additionally, Owens is finalizing construction on a newly refurbished Welding Center, which will feature the latest in technological and academic resources specific to welding for several degree and certificate programs.

Recently,students attending the Owens Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo began their 2011 Spring Semester within a newly expanded and renovated educational facility as the academic institution unveiled two new instructional classrooms and one open computer laboratory all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to enhance learning through hands-on instruction and exercises. The new resources will enable the College to offer even more educational opportunities in downtown Toledo.

Other initiatives include the opening of a new Faculty Development Center on Toledo-area Campus, as well as unveiling a new wind turbine and solar array on the Findlay-area Campus. Additionally, Owens is implementing a new Energy Strategic Plan, which is projected to annually reduce energy by over 20 percent once the initiative is fully operational, and further enhanced educational services for students through the creation of an OServe area. In addition, a new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program was unveiled in March 2010. The program is designed to provide graduating high school students achieving academic excellence at the highest level the opportunity to pursue a free college education.

Nationally, President McDougle has held Board of Directors-level positions with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Membership Advisory Council of NFPA, the Midwest Society for Human Resources/Industrial Relations Chapter of the Midwest Business Administration Association and the Membership Committee of the American Technical Education Association (ATEA). In Ohio, he has served on the Ohio Board of Regents Advisory Committee on Service Achievement and has been a member of the Board of Trustees for Mercy College of Northwest Ohio, the Northwest Ohio Regional Economic Development (NORED), the Regional Growth Partnership (RGP) and the Henry County Business Advisory Council.

President McDougle earned a doctorate in higher education from the University of Toledo. The Napoleon resident holds a master’s degree in physics from Kent State University and a bachelor’s degree in math-physics from the University of Findlay. President McDougle succeeds Dr. Christa Adams, who retired Jan. 1, after having served as President of Owens Community College since July 2001.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College and Tiffin University Announce New Dual Admission and Enrollment Program Partnership

Posted on January 27th, 2011

Tiffin University President Dr. Paul Marion (left) and Owens Community College President Dr. Larry McDougle pose for a photo following the signing ceremony for the new Dual Enrollment Program partnership on the College's Findlay-area Campus.

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College students with aspirations of pursuing a bachelor’s degree from Tiffin University will now be able to continue their academic pursuits while attending both academic institutions as the two schools have finalized a unique Dual Enrollment Program partnership.

As a result of the new collaboration, Owens students will be afforded the opportunity to complete academic coursework while simultaneously enrolled at the two schools. Owens students can participate in the new program with the start of the upcoming Fall Semester.

“Owens Community College is proud to partner with Tiffin University and announce the establishment of a joint academic program which enhances learning opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, President of Owens Community College. “Tiffin University is known for innovative partnerships and Owens Community College looks forward to working with them on additional educational initiatives to benefit even more area residents throughout the Northwest Ohio region.”

According to Dr. Paul Marion, President of Tiffin University, “we are very pleased to continue the excellent relationship that we have had with Owens Community College. This new partnership will benefit students for many years into the future.”

Owens students will have the opportunity to enroll in a maximum of three credit hours of coursework (four credit hours if a laboratory course) at Tiffin during the Fall and Spring semester for a maximum of four semesters as part of the new Dual Enrollment Program. Dual Enrollment Program students can enroll in an array of courses at Tiffin University including general education and major specific courses required at both academic institutions. Coursework successfully completed through the Dual Enrollment Program will transfer and be applied toward fulfilling degree requirements at both academic institutions.

In addition, the dual admission option provides Owens students with access to academic advising at Tiffin. Individuals will also be issued a Tiffin student ID, which will provide access to an array of Tiffin academic resources to include library privileges as well as campus events and activities to broaden their educational experience. Additionally, upon transferring to Tiffin, Owens students within the Dual Enrollment Program are eligible for a $2,500 per semester scholarship to utilize in their final semesters at Tiffin University.

Students enrolled in Tiffin classes as part of the Dual Enrollment Program will pay Owens’ tuition costs. Dual Enrollment Program classes will occur at Tiffin University in Tiffin and the academic institution’s campus location in Northwood.

The new Dual Enrollment Program partnership builds upon a longstanding articulation agreement between the respective institutions which enables Owens students to seamlessly transfer to Tiffin and pursue their bachelor’s degree, with junior standing, after completing their associate’s degree. For more information about the new Dual Enrollment Program, call (567) 661-7189 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7189, or 1-800-968-6446, Ext. 3301.

Founded in 1888, Tiffin University enrolls more than 4,900 students in undergraduate and graduate degree programs offered at the campus in Tiffin, Ohio, online, in four foreign countries, and at several locations in Ohio, including Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, Elyria, Fremont and Toledo. Graduate degrees include the Master of Business Administration, Master of Education, Master of Humanities and Master of Science in Criminal Justice. Undergraduate degrees include the Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Arts, Associate of Business Administration, Associate of Criminal Justice and Associate of Arts. For more information, call 1-800-968-6446 or visit www.tiffin.edu.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Unveils Expanded Learning Center at The Source for Spring Semester, Jan. 24

Posted on January 21st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Students attending the Owens Community College Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo will begin the 2011 Spring Semester within a newly expanded and renovated educational facility as the academic institution begins its 14-week Spring Semester on Monday, Jan. 24.

In order to meet the needs of the Learning Center’s growing number of students, Owens is unveiling two new instructional classrooms and one open computer laboratory all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to enhance learning through hands-on instruction and exercises. Additionally, the Learning Center has relocated the state tested nursing assistant experiential learning classroom to expand educational opportunities for students.

“Owens Community College’s Learning Center at The Source continues to play an integral role in meeting the education and training needs of Toledo-area residents by providing access to academic resources and learning opportunities,” said Willie Williams, Owens Director of Learning Center at The Source. “The expansion of Owens’ Learning Center is an investment in the future of higher education in downtown Toledo and will help more students realize their career aspirations.”

The newly renovated and expanded 12,726 square-foot educational facility at The Source now features eight classrooms, three computer laboratories, two offices, one reception area and one experiential learning classroom for instruction and hands-on learning specific to the state tested nursing assistant curriculum. Academic learning areas are also equipped with innovative multimedia capability for educational instruction highlighted by dedicated instructor stations in which Owens faculty can utilize an Extron Control Panel system. Serving as the classroom’s focal point from a technological standpoint, the Extron Control Panel system features a dedicated computer, a digital document camera, a Blu-ray DVD Player, and audio amplifier and speakers.

The Source Learning Center provides an array of academic course options for students with aspirations of pursuing their associate’s degree or certificate from Owens. Academic courses available to students during the current Spring Semester include accounting, astronomy, business, early childhood education, English, first-year experience, geography, health science, history, information systems technology, mathematics, office administration, psychology, skilled trades, sociology, speech and student success, among others.

Since opening its doors in August 2007 to provide expanded access to higher educational opportunities within Lucas County, Owens’ Learning Center at The Source, Lucas County’s One-Stop Employment Center, has provided academic and support services to thousands of area residents. In four years, enrollment has grown to nearly 600 students choosing to attend the Learning Center during semester classes.

The renovation project was designed by the firms Stough and Stough Architects of Sylvania and MDA Engineering Inc. of Maumee, while Van Tassel Construction Corp. of Sylvania served as the general contractor.

The Source, Lucas County’s One-Stop Employment Center is committed to quality-driven workforce services that assist individuals in developing and enhancing a multitude of work skill sets to meet the current and future needs of local businesses while embracing local economic growth and individual prosperity. The organization is also dedicated to quality-driven services, meeting business needs, meeting job seeker needs, diversity, accessibility, respecting the internal and external customer, collaboration of community resources, economic development, innovative leadership, a seamless system of workforce development, lifelong and continuous learning, technology to enhance efficiency, customer satisfaction and continuous quality improvement.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Unveils New Alternative Energy and Sustainable Systems Degree Program

Posted on January 13th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in careers in the installation and maintenance of alternative and renewable energy technology now have the opportunity to pursue their higher educational degree at Owens Community College as the academic institution’s School of Technology unveils a new alternative energy and sustainable systems technology associate degree program.

Beginning with Spring Semester 2011, the new academic program is being offered on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The two-year associate degree program recently received formal approval by the Ohio Board of Regents.

“Green technology is becoming more and more important in our energy-driven society,” said Randy Wharton, Owens Chair of Design Technologies and Co-Interim Dean of the School of Technology. “As the demand for existing and emerging technologies within alternative and renewable energy grows, the need for highly qualified technicians is a necessity.”

Wharton added, “Owens Community College’s new alternative energy and sustainable systems degree program will provide area residents with the opportunity to receive hands-on experiential learning at the highest level utilizing many of the College’s state-of-the-art academic resources specific to solar thermal power, wind power and photovoltaic power. Green technology is and will continue to play a crucial role in our global economy and Owens is committed to supporting alternative and renewable energy growth and development through innovative academic programming.”

Owens’ associate degree in alternative energy and sustainable systems technology will require approximately 65 credit hours of coursework, which includes technology in society, introduction to alternative energy, mechanical systems, power distribution, solar thermal power, wind power, LEEDS certified building, photovoltaic power, geothermal energy systems and biofuels, among other academic curriculum.

The new program is designed to prepare students to design, install, maintain and repair state-of-the-art alternative energy systems specific to solar power, wind power, photovoltaic power and geothermal power for residential and commercial utilization. Students will develop strong knowledge in the fundamentals of energy and how energy is produced, marketed, distributed and used, as well as how photovoltaic panels and wind turbines produce electricity and their cost/feasibility on different scales, including residential and utility scale. Individuals will also gain insight into how renewable energy sources such as hydropower, geothermal power and tidal power can be used to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Additionally, alternative energy and sustainable systems technology students will receive instruction related to energy efficient design and the fundamentals of LEED, as well as the understanding about the challenges in producing a fuel to power vehicles such as biofuels and hydrogen. Students will have the opportunity to utilize leading-edge academic resources for experiential learning, including the College’s wind turbines, solar thermal panels and photovoltaic arrays.

For additional information about Owens’ alternative energy and sustainable systems technology program, call (567) 661-7457 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7457.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Foundation Announces 2011-12 Scholarship Program Opportunities

Posted on January 10th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Foundation is investing in Northwest Ohio’s educational future by making available thousands of dollars in scholarship opportunities as part of the academic institution’s 2011-12 Scholarship Program.

Through the generosity of businesses and individuals within the surrounding communities, the Owens Foundation will offer current and future students the opportunity to apply for over 50 available scholarships for the upcoming 2011-12 academic year. Scholarship applicants must complete and return the application to the Oserve Office on either the Toledo-area or Findlay-area campus by Feb. 15. Scholarship award notification will begin in March and will continue until all awards have been made.

For scholarships based on financial need, a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application for the 2011-12 academic year must be on file in the College’s Oserve Office by Feb. 28. FAFSA and Foundation Scholarship Program forms are available in the College’s Oserve Office or can be downloaded by accessing the Owens website at www.owens.edu.

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.5 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 29 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

This past academic year, Owens provided more than $110 million in grants, scholarships, loans and federal work study to support the educational needs of students. For more information on the various scholarship opportunities, call (567) 661-7603 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7603.

Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Alumni Association Appoints Board of Directors to Leadership Positions

Posted on December 20th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Alumni Association has named Andrea Gurcsik of Maumee, Manager of Human Resources for First Solar, as the new President of the Alumni Association. Gurcsik replaces David Seeger of Maumee, President and CEO of Great Lakes Credit Union Inc., who served as Alumni Association President for the previous three years.

In addition, the Alumni Association named Steven Cotner of Perrysburg, President of Corporate Intelligence Consultants as Vice President; Mark Carr of Perrysburg, Vice President of Mortgage Sales Manager for Genoa Bank, as Treasurer; and Christi Wagner of Deshler, Senior Global Security Specialist for Owens Corning, as Secretary. Each officer will serve a one-year term.

Five Directors were re-elected to their positions during the Alumni Association’s annual meeting and will serve three-year terms. Re-elected Directors include Mark Carr; Carolyn Chapman of Holland, Human Resource Specialist at The University of Toledo; Steven Cotner; Kaye Koevenig of Toledo, Senior Accountant at Owens Community College; and David Seeger.

“Our Alumni Association Directors are talented, dedicated individuals who are proud Owens alumni,” said Laura Moore, Owens Director of Alumni Relations and Special Events and Executive Director of the Alumni Association. “They are passionate about education and are actively engaged in supporting Owens Community College.”

The Owens Community College Alumni Association mission is to engage alumni and students in programs, events and services that energize interest, build loyalty and strengthen support of Owens Community College. Since opening its doors in 1965, Owens has provided higher education to more than 250,000 students. Owens’ Alumni Association is committed to the personal and professional success of alumni and students through the ongoing development of value-added initiatives.

Owens Community College is a fully accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Brighten Hospital Children’s Smiles During Holiday Season

Posted on December 9th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Happiness and cheer was readily noticeable within area hospitals recently thanks to the humanitarian efforts of Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus’ Student Nursing Association. More than 90 toys ranging from puzzles and stuffed animals to coloring books and board games, collected as part of a community wide drive, were given to smiling children forced to spend the holiday season in local hospitals.

“The nursing profession is about helping people and the holidays are about giving,” explained Amanda Bolyard of Findlay, an Owens registered nursing student and a member of the Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association. “No one really likes to spend time in the hospital, especially children. The Owens Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association thought there was no better way to brighten the hospital children’s spirits than with a toy.”

Among the hospitals where Owens students and faculty personally hand-delivered the charitable gifts included Blanchard Valley Health System in Findlay, Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, Lima Memorial Hospital in Lima, Mercy Hospital of Tiffin in Tiffin, Fremont Memorial Hospital in Fremont and Fostoria Community Hospital in Fostoria. Over 455 toys have been donated to area hospital children the last six years.

“The toy drive was once again a huge success,” said Kristyn Link of Tiffin, an Owens registered nursing student and Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association member. “This event would not be possible without the help and support of the Owens campus community and the local community. We are extremely thankful for their donations, which allowed us to bring smiles to so many children.”

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Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Deliver Toys to Area Hospital Children, Dec. 8

Posted on December 6th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – The Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association is working to spread happiness and cheer throughout the surrounding communities by brightening the lives of children forced to spend the holiday season in local hospitals. Toys ranging from dolls to miniature trucks, collected within the last few weeks, will soon find their way to a smiling child’s arms as the Student Nursing Association presents the donated gifts to area hospitals on Wednesday, Dec. 8.

Beginning at 10 a.m., the Owens Student Nursing Association will wrap the various toys in an array of colorful paper in the Findlay-area Campus’ Nursing Lab. At 10:45 a.m., the members will divide up into groups and depart for six area hospitals to personally hand deliver the charitable gifts. Among the hospitals where Owens students will make visits are Lima Memorial Hospital at 11:15 p.m. (1001 Bellefontaine Ave.) in Lima, Wood County Hospital at 11:30 a.m. (950 W. Wooster St.) in Bowling Green, Blanchard Valley Health System at 12:15 p.m. (145 W. Wallace St.) in Findlay, Fremont Memorial Hospital at 12:30 p.m. (715 S. Taft Ave.) in Fremont, Fostoria Community Hospital at 1 p.m. (501 Van Buren St.) in Fostoria and Mercy Hospital of Tiffin at 2 p.m. (485 W. Market St.) in Tiffin. Over 365 toys were donated to area hospital children the last five years.

Owens Delivers Backpacks and Supplies to Northwest Ohio Elementary School Children

Posted on December 1st, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association in collaboration with Books-A-Million, two Walt Churchill’s Market locations, three Great Lakes Credit Union branches and five Genoa Bank branches recently brightened many children’s lives through a unique community service endeavor titled “Backpack to the Future”. Over 410 backpacks and more than 8,700 school supply items collected throughout the summer months were donated to 22 area elementary schools.

Local schools receiving donations included Lake Local Schools’ Walbridge Elementary School, Northview Primary School in Findlay and Toledo Public Schools’ Birmingham Elementary School, Reynolds Elementary School and Glenwood Elementary School. Additionally, elementary school children through the Community Learning Center of Wood County, serving sites at Glenwood Elementary School (Rossford), Lark Elementary School (Northwood), Grand Rapids Elementary School (Otsego), Powell Elementary School (North Baltimore), Luckey Elementary School (Eastwood), Kenwood Elementary School (Bowling Green), Brunner Elementary School (Genoa), Woodmore Elementary School (Woodmore), Crim Elementary School (Bowling Green), Olney Elementary School (Northwood) and Conneaut Elementary School (Bowling Green), received school supplies from Owens and partnering organizations.

“Owens Community College’s ‘Backpack to the Future’ supply drive was once again a huge success thanks to the support of area residents and local businesses,” said Kaye Koevenig, Owens Alumni Association Community Service Chair. “Our goal is to help students succeed. All children should have the opportunity to begin their school year with new educational resources and Owens Community College is proud to play a small role in making sure that happens.”

“These donated backpacks and school supplies are wonderful and will go directly into the classroom to benefit students and teachers,” said Dolores Swineford, Principal of Walbridge Elementary School. “I want to thank Owens Community College for this generous donation and their help and support in the student learning process.”

Warren Fauver, Director of the Community Learning Centers of the Wood County Educational Service Center added, “Owens Community College’s continued advocacy and support of Wood County children through the backpack and school supply program is commendable. They are making a difference by providing educational materials for those students with limited resources, which helps build their excitement about learning.”

“I know what it’s like to go without and it warms my heart to see people who care so much about students,” said Elizabeth Bethany, Principal of Reynolds Elementary School. “These supplies make a big difference in the children’s self esteem. It’s a positive start for them.”

In addition to the donated supplies, the program collected over $1,130 from community members. The charitable donations go toward the purchase of even more school supplies.

“School is fun,” said five-year-old Nate Ryan, a kindergartener at Northview Primary School, during the donation ceremony. “My favorite color is orange and I like to put folders and my lunch box in my Batman backpack.”

Jordan Rosales, a proud five-year-old kindergartener from Rossford’s Eagle Point Elementary School added, “I have a pink princess on my backpack and I like school.”

The Owens Alumni Association established “Backpack to the Future” supply drive in 2004 as a way to provide educational outreach to the surrounding communities. To date, the program has given over 1,930 backpacks and more than 34,410 school supplies to benefit disadvantaged children throughout Northwest Ohio. Since opening its doors in 1965, Owens has provided higher education to more than 250,000 students. Owens’ Alumni Association is committed to the personal and professional success of alumni and students through the ongoing development of value-added initiatives.

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Owens Community College Foundation Appoints Board of Directors to Leadership Positions

Posted on November 30th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Thomas Pounds of Toledo, President and Publisher for the “Toledo Free Press”, to serve as the new Chairman for the Owens Foundation. Pounds replaces Arthur H. Smith of Maumee, retired Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary for Libbey Inc., who served as Foundation Chairman for the previous two years.

In addition, the College’s Foundation Board of Directors elected Daniel Kimmet of Toledo, retired Chief Operating Officer for Dillin Corp., as Vice Chairman; David Seeger of Maumee, President and Chief Executive Officer of Great Lakes Credit Union as Secretary; and James Geers of Findlay, retired Vice President of Global Human Resources at Cooper Tire & Rubber Company, as Treasurer. Each officer will serve a one-year term.

Seven Directors were re-elected to their positions during the annual meeting and will serve three-year terms. Re-elected Directors include James Baehren of Sylvania, Senior Vice President-Strategic Planning and General Counsel for Owens Illinois; Timothy Coleman of Monclova, Senior Vice President – Market Executive, Private Client Group for PNC Bank; Daniel Kimmet; Alan Sattler of Rossford, President of Flower Hospital; Arthur Smith; Diana H. (Dee) Talmage of Toledo, retired Educator and Chair of the Owens Community College Board of Trustees; and John Zajac of Perrysburg, Senior Vice President and CFO of Signature Bank.

“The Owens Community College Foundation has assembled a talented and dedicated group of community leaders who understand the importance of a quality college education and value the many benefits of lifelong learning,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and Foundation President. “Through their professional and life experiences, each officer brings a wealth of knowledge to their position and each will play a significant role in assisting the Foundation in our efforts to enhance programs and services for current and future students.”

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.4 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 29 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Community College Names New Executive Vice President and Provost

Posted on November 9th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Dr. Renay Scott as the academic institution’s new Executive Vice President and Provost. Scott has been serving as the College’s Interim Executive Vice President and Provost since January of this year.

Her responsibilities include overseeing the areas of Student Services, Academic Services and Workforce and Community Services. Additionally, Scott provides leadership for all aspects related to the coordination and development of initiatives related to enhancing educational opportunities and resources for current and future students as the College’s Chief Academic Officer.

“Owens Community College is honored to have Dr. Renay Scott serving as the academic institution’s new Executive Vice President and Provost,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, President of Owens Community College. “Dr. Scott is passionate about advancing Owens Community College’s higher educational mission and vision through excellence, innovation and collaboration. Her unwavering commitment and desire to impacting the lives of others has been instrumental in opening new doors to many innovative academic learning opportunities for our students. I look forward to her continued leadership as Owens Community College strengthens and advances higher education to meet the ever-changing needs of this region.”

“I am excited and honored to represent the faculty, staff and administration as their academic leader,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College.

Scott joined the College in June 2006 as Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. In that position, her responsibilities included overseeing all instructional programs and activities within the School. Scott also supervised the development and implementation of new academic curricula, directed the on-going evaluation of the School’s courses and collaborated with the fellow academic deans to enhance opportunities and resources for current and future students. She currently serves as Owens’ Chairperson of the Student Learning Assessment Committee and is a member of the College’s Board of Trustees Community Partnership Standing Committee and the Foundations of Excellence Steering Committee.

In September 2009, Scott was named the College’s Vice Provost and responsible for assisting with all aspects related to the supervision and administrative leadership of the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Health Sciences and the Library on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Additionally, Scott administered the College’s program review and assessment system and oversaw Owens’ faculty professional development plan, the Honors Program and service learning.

Since her arrival at Owens, Scott has been instrumental in leading the expansion of many technological advances and academic curriculum opportunities within the School of Arts and Sciences as well as assisting in the acquisition of millions of dollars in both private and public grants for educational programs and resources. In addition, she helped lead efforts in expanding higher education to the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and unveiling newly renovated Founders Hall and Heritage Hall buildings at the former Penta Career Center as part of the College’s ongoing campus expansion initiative. Also under Scott’s leadership, Owens is in the midst of refurbishing a new Welding Center, which will feature the latest in technological and academic resources specific to welding for several degree and certificate programs.

Other initiatives include the opening of a new Faculty Development Center on Toledo-area Campus and further enhancing educational services for students through the creation of an OServe area. In addition, a new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program was unveiled earlier this year as well as several new associate degree programs, including systems security and information assurance and commercial photography technology, under her direction and guidance.

Scott also has led a thorough analysis of the registered nursing program, as well as with all other academic programs, to ensure that a situation involving the loss of accreditation with an academic program does not happen again. A new review process is now in place for all academic programs. Additionally, the School of Nursing is currently working diligently on regaining NLNAC registered nursing program accreditation with the overall goal of becoming an elite school for nursing in Ohio and beyond.

Prior to working at Owens, Scott served as the Chair for the Department of Teacher Education and Professional Development at Central Michigan University for three years. While at Central Michigan, she was responsible for overseeing over 2,000 students as well as 39 full-time and 40 part-time faculty members. Scott also played a significant role in cultivating and furthering partnerships between Central Michigan and the area public schools, community colleges and educational service organizations.

Her professional and community involvement includes membership with the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development and the International Reading Association. Additionally, she is a Leadership Toledo Board member, an Ohio Board of Regents Transfer and Advisory Committee member, a Lourdes College Teacher Education Advisory Board member, a Bowling Green State University National Science Foundation Grant Internal Advisory Committee member and currently is serving as an Assessment Academy Reviewer for The Higher Learning Commission of North Central Association. Honored for her teaching excellence, Scott in 2004 received the Michigan Council for the Social Studies’ Outstanding Social Studies Teacher Educator for work at the collegiate level. In 2009, she was honored with the College’s Exemplary Administrator Award.

Scott received a bachelor’s degree in secondary social studies education from Calvin College and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Michigan State University. The Toledo resident holds a doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction from Wayne State University.

Owens Community College Dedicates New South Campus Featuring Newly Renovated Founders Hall and Heritage Hall

Posted on November 1st, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College representatives recently joined community leaders and elected officials in celebrating the academic institution’s historical beginnings as Penta County Technical Institute and future by officially dedicating the new south campus featuring renovated $2.6 million Founders Hall and $2.9 million Heritage Hall.

“This is truly a monumental moment in the history of Owens Community College as we remember our beginning as Penta County Technical Institute and celebrate our academic programs, technology and facilities of today,” said Dr. Larry G. McDougle, President of Owens Community College. “The new southern portion of the Toledo-area Campus, which previously served as home to Penta Career Center, has enabled Owens Community College to expand both academic programs and resources. Both Founders Hall and Heritage Hall are magnificent buildings and offer the latest in innovative learning opportunities for our students and the surrounding Northwest Ohio region.”

The 29,045 square-foot Founders Hall and 38,304 square-foot Heritage Hall buildings are both situated at the south end of the Toledo-area Campus, which formerly served as home to the Penta Career Center. Owens’ signature red and black logo welcomes individuals upon entering the two educational facilities.

Founders Hall features eight instructional classrooms, two instructional computer classrooms and one open computer laboratory, while Heritage Hall includes six designated experiential learning classrooms for instruction and hands-on laboratory learning.

Owens’ Founders Hall (formerly known as the Penta Career Center Administration Building) serves as the new home to the College’s Departments of English, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Communications, Humanities and Languages, as well as the Dean for the School of Arts and Sciences. Heritage Hall (formerly known as the Penta Career Center Skill Center) features the College’s School of Business and Information Systems and the School of Nursing.

The Founders Hall building also features 65 offices, four conference rooms, an expansive employee lounge, and men’s and women’s restroom facilities. In addition, the educational center includes three interactive learning labs where students can meet one-on-one or in a small group setting with their fellow peers, tutors and/or instructors in a comfortable educational environment designed to enhance academic learning and success.

Designed by the firm Poggemeyer Design Group Inc. of Bowling Green, the exterior Founders Hall features tan brick faÁade, while the color red is present atop the building’s entrances. Mosser Construction Inc. of Fremont served as the general contractor, while Mondo Mechanical Co. of Toledo, Helm and Associates Inc. of Maumee, Northwest Electrical Contractor of Holland and Absolute Fire Protection Inc. of Perrysburg oversaw the plumbing, mechanical, electrical and fire protection contracts, respectively.

Three experiential learning classrooms within Heritage Hall are being utilized by the School of Business and Information Systems with an academic emphasis in office administration, information security and networking, among other academic areas. The office administration experiential learning classroom area is designed to simulate a modern office setting highlighted by state-of-the-art computers, adjustable keyboards, phone systems and scanners, while students within the information security and networking programs have the opportunity to design, create and maintain a secure computer network by utilizing leading edge technology in their respective learning laboratories.

The School of Nursing is also housed within Heritage Hall and features three experiential learning classrooms all designed to simulate a hospital and/or health care setting. The registered nursing area features a centralized nurse’s station as well as rooms/wings that surround the station for instructional classroom and hands-on learning. Owens’ educational laboratory mirrors a hospital setting in that it features a 2 West, a 2 East, an ICU, a Peds/OB Unit and a Nurse’s Station. Other academic resources within the registered nursing experiential learning area include a state-of-the-art IV simulation computer program, a med room to prep medications, a classroom, two glass-enclosed skill testing rooms that simulate double occupancy rooms found in hospitals and two student/instructor conference rooms. Additionally, Owens’ School of Nursing features experiential learning classrooms for practical nursing and the College’s human patient simulator technology.

The firms The Collaborative Inc. of Toledo and MDA Engineering Inc. in Maumee designed Heritage Hall.† The exterior of the building features tan brick faÁade, while the color red is present at the building’s north entrance. Comte Construction Co. of Toledo served as the general contractor, while Warner Mechanical Corp. of Fremont, VM Systems Inc. of Toledo and Lake Erie Electric of Toledo oversaw the plumbing and fire protection, mechanical and electrical contracts, respectively.

Additional features to both Founders Hall and Heritage Hall include innovative multimedia capability for educational instruction highlighted by dedicated instructor stations in which Owens faculty can utilize an Extron Control Panel system. Serving as the classroom’s focal point from a technological standpoint, the Extron Control Panel system features a dedicated computer, a digital document camera, a Blu-ray DVD Player, and audio amplifier and speakers. Designated academic areas also house ceiling mounted digital/analog and high definition capable projectors and screens for instructional purposes and features the latest in computing resources, including an array of software applications and programming languages as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

Designed with energy efficiency and conservation in mind, each room’s bank of lights within Founders Hall and Heritage Hall automatically power down after a period of time without detected movement. Glass windows are abundant within each building to reduce the necessity for some electric lighting and to allow more natural light into the complex. In addition, both facilities include building automation heating and air conditioning as well as wireless Internet access. Infrastructure was also added to the existing buildings for future looping and sharing of district heating.

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Owens Community College Announces Plans for New $1.1 Million Welding Center

Posted on October 29th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is expanding access to higher educational opportunities within Northwest Ohio by announcing plans for a new $1.1 million Welding Center on the Toledo-area Campus. The new state-of-the-art educational center, which previously held Penta Career Center’s Welding and Automotive Collision Repair Labs, will feature the latest in technological and academic resources specific to welding for several degree and certificate programs.

The addition of a newly renovated Welding Center is a continuation of the College’s ongoing campus expansion initiative on the new south campus, which formerly was the home to Penta Career Center. Owens began the 2010-11 academic year by unveiling a $2.9 million Heritage Hall building. The 38,304 square-foot Heritage Hall (former Penta Career Center Skill Center) renovation project was preceded by the opening of a refurbished 29,045 square-foot Founders Hall (former Penta Career Center Administration Building) in January 2010. Both Heritage Hall and the $2.6 million Founders Hall are located on the new southern portion of campus. The new Welding Center is expected to open in January 2011.

“Owens Community College’s new Welding Center will provide students with leading edge resources unlike any other academic institution in the region,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Interim Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “The newly renovated building will become an integral part of the new south campus as we look to expand educational opportunities for students and provide them with the ‘Owens Experience’ in order to achieve their academic and career goals.”

The renovated 14,512 square-foot Welding Center will be is situated south of Founders Hall and Heritage Hall on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens’ new educational facility will feature two dedicated instructional classrooms and two expansive experiential learning classroom areas for instruction and hands-on learning. The complex will also include three offices, a locker room area, and men’s and women’s restroom facilities.

Owens’ two expansive experiential learning classrooms will house 56 welding booths, 12 cutting booths and eight grinding stations all with leading edge technology for students to receive hands-on training specific to stick, gas, MIG and TIG welding processes. Thirty-six booths will have the capability of utilizing argon and carbon dioxide for welding purposes, while oxygen and acetylene will be featured in 12 cutting booths. The Welding Center will also include a 1,813 square-foot storage complex for welding materials, which will be located adjacent to the educational facility.

Additionally, 68 stations will feature an innovative welding fume extraction system. The state-of-the-art technology is designed to extract metalworking particulate in a controlled direction, filter the particulate through a self-cleaning unit and re-circulate the filtered air throughout the new Welding Center. The recirculation of filtered air instead of exhausting non-filtered air to the outside will enable the College to enhance energy efficiency and save on heating and cooling costs.

Owens’ Welding Center will be utilized by students pursuing an associate’s degree in welding as well as GMAW welding, GTAW welding, SMAW welding and welding pre-certification certificates. Additional programs planning to incorporate the Welding Center’s technology into their academic curriculum include automotive technology, advanced integrated manufacturing systems technologies, Caterpillar dealer service technician, diesel technology, John Deere technician and skilled trades technologies. Welding-specific academic specialty courses featured within the Welding Center will include artistic welding, welding fabrication and advanced welding.

Experiential learning areas will also be equipped with innovative multimedia capability for educational instruction highlighted by dedicated instructor stations in which Owens faculty can utilize an Extron Control Panel system. Serving as the classroom’s focal point from a technological standpoint, the Extron Control Panel system features a dedicated computer, a digital document camera, a Blu-ray DVD Player, and audio amplifier and speakers. Each academic area will also house ceiling mounted digital/analog and high definition capable projectors and screens for instructional purposes and feature the latest in computing resources, including an array of software applications and programming languages as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

Owens’ new Welding Center is designed by the firms Stough and Stough Architects of Sylvania and MDA Engineering Inc. in Maumee.

The newly renovated educational facility will replace Owens’ 24 combined welding, cutting and grinding stations, which are located within the College’s Transportation Technologies Center.

Owens Community College Foundation Appoints New Board of Directors

Posted on October 15th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Foundation has appointed six community leaders to seats on the Foundation’s Board of Directors.

New Directors include Michael Duffey of Sylvania, Director of Federal Programs of SSOE Group; Thomas Hosler of Sylvania, Superintendent of Perrysburg City Schools; Ron Matter of Maumee, Superintendent of Penta Career Center; Matthew Mishler of Lambertville, Mich., National Account Manager of Buckeye Telesystem; Phil Rudolph Jr. of Perrysburg, Vice President of Business Development of Rudolph Libbe Companies; and Dave Seeger of Maumee, President and Chief Executive Officer of Great Lakes Credit Union Inc. Each individual will serve a three-year term on the Foundation Board.

“The Owens Community College Foundation Board of Directors is an outstanding group of leaders who value the importance of a quality college education and the many benefits of lifelong learning,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of Fund Development and Foundation President. “These new directors represent organizations with whom Owens Community College has established longstanding partnerships as it strives to fulfill its mission of serving our students and our communities. Their experience and knowledge will play a significant role in the Foundation’s ability to enhance programs and services for both current and future students.”

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.3 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 29 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Alumni Association Golf Outing Raises Over $24,185 in Support of Scholarships

Posted on October 13th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – One hundred twelve area residents recently enjoyed a day of golf and entertainment in support of alumni scholarship programs as Owens Community College’s Alumni Association held its eighth annual Golf Classic. The 28-team event netted over $24,185 to benefit scholarship endeavors.

Since its inception, the Owens event has netted over $235,180 to support Owens students pursuing a college education and their career aspirations.

Organized by the Owens Alumni Association’s steering committee, the golf outing was held at the historic Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. The event featured 18-holes of golf, lunch, grazing dinner and an awards program. The Golf Classic event sponsors were Hylant Group and Hylant Administrative Services and Hylant Group CEO Mike Hylant is served as the event’s Honorary Chair. In addition, Metzgers Printing + Mailing was the print sponsor.

The championship team of the four-person scramble was sponsored by Plante & Moran. Team members included Robb Rose, John McDermott, Greg Taylor and Tom Nemeth.

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Owens Delivers Backpacks and Supplies to Area Elementary School Children, Sept. 8-14

Posted on September 2nd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association in collaboration with Books-A-Million, two Walt Churchill’s Market locations, three Great Lakes Credit Union branches and five Genoa Bank branches are brightening many children’s lives through a unique community service endeavor titled “Backpack to the Future”. Over 410 backpacks and more than 8,700 school supply items collected throughout the summer months are being donated to 22 area elementary schools during the month of September.

Beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 8, Owens representatives will deliver backpacks and supplies to Northview Primary School at 11:30 a.m. in Findlay (133 Lexington Ave.). On Thursday, Sept. 9, Owens will donate backpacks and school supplies to Toledo Public Schools’ Birmingham Elementary School (355 Dearborn Ave.) at 10 a.m. and to Rossford’s Glenwood Elementary School (8950 Avenue Rd.) at 3:45 p.m. On Friday, Sept. 10, College officials will make a backpack and school supply donations to Toledo Public Schools’ Reynolds Elementary School (5000 Norwich Rd.) at 10:30 a.m. and Lake Local Schools’ Walbridge Elementary School at 2 p.m. in Walbridge (200 E. Union St.). The following week, Owens representatives will make their final stop on Tuesday, Sept. 14, at Toledo Public Schools’ Glenwood Elementary School (2860 Glenwood Ave.) at 10 a.m.

“The impressive response area residents and businesses continue to make to the ‘Backpack to the Future’ supply drive is outstanding,” said Kaye Koevenig, Owens Alumni Association Community Service Chair. “There are many families that can barely afford to pay their bills and may not be able to provide their children with new supplies. Our goal is to ensure that such occurrences do not happen and that all children begin their school year with new educational resources.”

The drive also collected over $1,130 from community members. The charitable donations will go toward the purchase of school supplies.

One of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio, Owens Community College is a fully accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. 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 on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Foundation and AEP Ohio Announce New $25,000 Scholarship Program

Posted on August 26th, 2010

Owens and AEP Ohio officials pose for a photo following the announcement of the new workforce development scholarship initiative.

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College has been chosen as one of nine Ohio two-year community and technical colleges by AEP Ohio, a unit of American Electric Power, to participate in a new $225,000 workforce development scholarship initiative designed to help low income Ohioans compete for jobs in an evolving economy.

The Owens Community College Foundation has received a $25,000 scholarship grant from AEP Ohio for the new program. Other academic institutions participating in the scholarship initiative are Shawnee State University, Zane State College, Eastern Gateway Community College, Belmont Technical College, Washington State Community College, Columbus State Community College, Rio Grande Community College and Stark State College.

“In times like these, AEP Ohio along with other businesses and government must work together to help Ohio families compete for jobs,” said Joseph Hamrock, AEP Ohio President and Chief Operating Officer. “We are pleased to be able to offer these scholarships to Ohioans in need of help to upgrade their skills.”

“The Owens Community College Foundation is delighted to work with AEP Ohio in extending this new scholarship opportunity to our students,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and the Owens Foundation. “This timely scholarship program mirrors the College’s mission of serving our students and our communities, and will help students return to school to upgrade their skills, beginning in the 2010-11 academic year.”

Eligible recipients must be AEP Ohio customers at or below 200 percent of the 2009-10 Federal Poverty Guidelines. Scholarships will be awarded to individuals who are seeking to upgrade their skills, particularly in utility industry careers.

AEP Ohio’s Partnership with Ohio (PWO) Fund is a three-year $15 million shareholder-funded program that provides additional help to Ohio’s needy families. The programs are designed to include families with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level, a segment of the population that often does not qualify for state and federal aid.

Since 2009, the company has provided through the PWO Fund $6.25 million to support regional food banks and United Way agencies, workforce development initiatives, direct bill payment assistance and weatherization efforts for low income customers. AEP Ohio also has used the funding to support the company’s Neighbor-to-Neighbor Program, a program designed to help low-income customers struggling to pay their electric bill. Other PWO contributions will be announced throughout the year.

AEP Ohio provides electricity to nearly 1.5 million customers of major AEP subsidiaries Columbus Southern Power Company and Ohio Power Company in Ohio, and Wheeling Power Company in the northern panhandle of West Virginia. AEP Ohio is based in Gahanna, Ohio, and is a unit of American Electric Power.

American Electric power is one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, delivering electricity to more than five million customers in 11 states. AEP ranks among the nation’s largest generators of electricity, owning nearly 38,000 megawatts of generating capacity in the U.S. AEP also owns the nation’s largest electricity transmission system, a nearly 39,000-mile network that includes more 765-kilovolt extra-high voltage transmission lines than all other U.S. transmission systems combined. AEP’s transmission system directly or indirectly serves about 10 percent of the electricity demand in the Eastern Interconnection, the interconnected transmission system that covers 38 eastern and central U.S. states and eastern Canada, and approximately 11 percent of the electricity demand in ERCOT, the transmission system that covers much of Texas. AEP’s utility units operate as AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana and east Texas). AEP’s headquarters are in Columbus, Ohio.

Owens Awarded $96,000 Renewable Energy Grant to Support Alternative and Renewable Energy Initiatives

Posted on August 18th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has been selected to receive a $96,000 Renewable Energy Grant from the Ohio Department of Development for the purposes of advancing alternative and renewable energy initiatives on the Toledo-area Campus.

“Owens Community College is extremely appreciative to the Ohio Department of Development for their commitment and support to the continued development of alternative and renewable energy within the Northwest Ohio region,” said Ralph Semrock, Owens Associate Professor of Design Technologies.

The $96,000 Renewable Energy Grant will specifically be used to offset the installation costs of the College’s 120-foot EW50 wind turbine. In October 2009, Owens expanded its educational opportunities within the area of alternative and renewable energy by installing the academic institution’s second wind turbine. Located adjacent to the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building, the new EW50 wind turbine is a fully integrated, utility-connected wind generator designed specifically for large commercial businesses, farms, communities, schools, municipal facilities, electric cooperatives and remote locations.

Owens’ EW50 wind turbine is currently being used for educational training within Workforce and Community Services’ Wind Installation Program and will be incorporated into future academic curriculum programming in the School of Technology. The College also features a 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine, which is utilized for experiential learning purposes on the Toledo-area Campus.

In addition to its instructional utilization, the 50-kilowatt wind turbine generator is used to convert wind power into electricity for regular operational purposes within the Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building.

Pilot Construction Services LLC based in Kent oversaw the process of installing the wind turbine on the Toledo-area Campus.

Owens Community College Opens New $2.9 Million Renovated Heritage Hall for Fall Semester, Aug. 16

Posted on August 13th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will begin the 2010-11 academic year by unveiling a newly renovated $2.9 million Heritage Hall building featuring the latest in educational resources as the academic institution begins its Fall Semester on Monday, Aug. 16.

In addition to providing educational opportunities to thousands of students, Heritage Hall (formerly known as the Penta Career Center Skill Center) will serve as the new home to the College’s School of Business and Information Systems and the School of Nursing.

“Owens Community College’s newly refurbished Heritage Hall is a welcome addition to the Northwest Ohio region,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Interim Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “This educational facility was designed with the goal of providing students with innovative academic resources at the highest level. Owens Community College is a leader within higher education and the opening of Heritage Hall represents this academic institution’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence.”

The College’s newly renovated 38,304 square-foot Heritage Hall building is situated at the south end of the Toledo-area Campus, which formerly served as home to the Penta Career Center. Owens’ signature red and black logo welcomes individuals upon entering the two-story educational center. Once through the north entrance to the educational building, individuals will also notice an expansive array of glass windows, which allows for a noticeable amount of sunlight into Heritage Hall, as well as a view of the College’s north campus. Located at the center of Heritage Hall near the north entrance is a commons area where students will have the opportunity to relax, study or access the Internet between classes.

In addition, Heritage Hall features six designated experiential learning classrooms for instruction and hands-on laboratory learning, all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to provide expanded educational choices and options that meet the current and future needs of students.

Three experiential learning classrooms will be utilized by the School of Business and Information Systems with an academic emphasis in office administration, information security and networking, among other academic areas. The office administration experiential learning classroom area is designed to simulate a modern office setting highlighted by state-of-the-art computers, adjustable keyboards, phone systems and scanners, while students within the information security and networking programs will have the opportunity to design, create and maintain a secure computer network by utilizing leading edge technology in their respective learning laboratories.

The School of Nursing will house three experiential learning classrooms all designed to simulate a hospital and/or health care setting. The registered nursing area features a centralized nurse’s station as well as rooms/wings that surround the station for instructional classroom and hands-on learning. Owens’ educational laboratory mirrors a hospital setting in that it features a 2 West, a 2 East, an ICU, a Peds/OB Unit and a Nurse’s Station. Other academic resources within the registered nursing experiential learning area include a state-of-the-art IV simulation computer program, a med room to prep medications, a classroom, two glass-enclosed skill testing rooms that simulate double occupancy rooms found in hospitals and two student/instructor conference rooms. Additionally, Owens’ School of Nursing will feature experiential learning classrooms for practical nursing and the College’s human patient simulator technology.

Experiential learning areas are also equipped with innovative multimedia capability for educational instruction highlighted by dedicated instructor stations in which Owens faculty can utilize an Extron Control Panel system. Serving as the classroom’s focal point from a technological standpoint, the Extron Control Panel system features a dedicated computer, a digital document camera, a Blu-ray DVD Player, and audio amplifier and speakers. Each academic area also houses ceiling mounted digital/analog and high definition capable projectors and screens for instructional purposes and features the latest in computing resources, including an array of software applications and programming languages as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

The educational center also features 65 offices, one conference room, an employee lounge, and men’s and women’s restroom facilities. In addition, Heritage Hall includes an expansive student lounge where individuals can meet one-on-one or in a small group setting with their fellow peers, tutors and/or instructors in a comfortable environment designed to enhance academic learning and success.

Designed with energy efficiency and conservation in mind, each room’s bank of lights automatically power down after a period of time without detected movement. Glass windows are abundant within the main atrium entrance to reduce the necessity for some electric lighting and to allow more natural light into the complex. The entire facility includes building automation heating and air conditioning as well as wireless Internet access. Infrastructure was also added to the existing building for future looping and sharing of district heating.

Designed by the firms The Collaborative Inc. of Toledo and MDA Engineering Inc. in Maumee, the exterior of the building features tan brick faÁade, while the color red is present at the building’s north entrance. Comte Construction Co. of Toledo served as the general contractor, while Warner Mechanical Corp. of Fremont, VM Systems Inc. of Toledo and Lake Erie Electric of Toledo oversaw the plumbing and fire protection, mechanical and electrical contracts, respectively.

In addition to the recently completed Heritage Hall renovation project, the College unveiled a refurbished 29,045 square-foot Founders Hall at the former Penta Career Center in January 2010 as part of Owens’ ongoing campus expansion initiative. The $2.6 million Founders Hall building serves as the new home to the College’s Departments of English, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Communications, Humanities and Languages, as well as the Dean for the School of Arts and Sciences.

Owens Community College Welcomes Back Thousands of Students for Fall Semester, Aug. 16

Posted on August 13th, 2010

On Monday, Aug. 16, Owens students will be locating their classrooms, talking with academic advisors, purchasing books and registering for classes on the College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses to kick off the new fall term. The first day of classes for the Arrowhead Park Learning Center and the Learning Center at The Source is on Tuesday, Aug. 31.

Owens is once again expanding educational opportunities for area residents by announcing the creation of enhanced curriculum for the new academic year. For Fall Semester 2010, the College will offer a new associate’s degree within the area of systems security and information assurance through the School of Business and Information Systems, as well as an associate’s degree in commercial photography technology through the School of Arts and Sciences.

The College is also continuing to expand its extremely popular eOwens distance learning education by introducing additional academic courses online. To date, Owens offers more than 200 e-Learning courses in such academic areas as accounting, art, business, English, psychology and speech, among other course selections.

In addition to the many e-Learning opportunities, Owens continues to increase its academic and support services by making available an array of higher education choices through the Weekend College, as well as at The Source, Lucas County’s One-Stop Employment Center, in downtown Toledo and at the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee.

Owens will also welcome hundreds of students participating in the College Foundation’s expanded Success Program, which now includes Lake High School and all graduating high school students from public schools in Hancock County, to the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses for Fall Semester classes. Other Success Program partnering high schools include Whitmer High School and all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district. The Success Program is designed to assist students, who receive only partial state and federal financial aid, attend college and bridges the gap between the grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education.

Additionally, area graduating high school students achieving academic excellence at the highest level now have the opportunity to pursue a free college education at Owens as the academic institution in March announced the establishment of a new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program. The new scholarship initiative is offered to qualifying students graduating from public and private high schools as well as career centers within the College’s legal district, which encompasses Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties and parts of Ottawa and Sandusky counties.

The College is also enhancing its student services and resources by unveiling a new Oserve location. Students will now have the opportunity to ask questions and receive information specific to records, registration and financial aid all within a designated area on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as at the Learning Center at The Source and at the Arrowhead Park Learning Center. Previously, such services were handled by three separate offices which included the offices of Student Accounts, Registrar and Financial Aid.

Continuing to expand educational opportunities for students, Owens will begin the 2010-11 academic year by unveiling a newly renovated $2.9 million Heritage Hall building featuring the latest in academic resources. Heritage Hall (formerly known as the Penta Career Center Skill Center) will serve as the new home to the College’s School of Business and Information Systems and the School of Nursing. The College’s newly renovated 38,304 square-foot Heritage Hall building is situated at the south end of the Toledo-area Campus, which formerly served as home to the Penta Career Center.

Also in the past 11 months, Owens broadened access to higher education opportunities for police, fire and emergency services personnel, as well as the military, by opening a new $3.2 million Emergency Preparedness Training and Operations Center. In January 2010, Owens unveiled a new Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee to open new doors to a college education in Western Lucas County.

In the Hancock County area, Owens opened a new $4.2 million Findlay-area Campus Community Education and Wellness Center in 2007 to complement the new $17.7 million Findlay-area Campus, which opened in 2005.

To accommodate the needs of students, the College, within the last seven years, also opened an $11 million Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus. In 2007, Owens unveiled a new $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness. The Center is the only state-of-the-art facility of this magnitude within the Midwest.

Owens Community College Provides Lake High School Students Access to Higher Education Through New Success Program Partnership

Posted on August 12th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College and Lake Local Schools continue to expand their partnership to enhance student success as the two educational neighbors announce a new collaboration that will give all graduating Lake High School students in financial need the opportunity to pursue a free college education through the College’s Success Program initiative.

The 2010 Lake High School graduating class will serve as the initial recipients of the educational program, which is designed to assist students, who receive only partial federal financial aid in the form of a Pell Grant, attend college. The Success Program will bridge the gap between the federal grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again collaborate with Lake Local Schools and help their students realize their goals of a college education,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and the Owens Foundation. “The goal of the Success Program is to ensure that a college education is a viable and realistic option for all students throughout the region. Financial barriers should not be the reason that a student cannot attend college and Owens Community College is committed to providing such access to a higher education.”

Savage added, “Tornados may have destroyed the Lake High School, but it did not destroy the will and determination of its staff and students. Lake Local Schools is committed to a tradition of academic excellence that prepares, motivates and challenges all students to achieve their fullest potential and contribute to a diverse global society. Owens Community College is dedicated to helping Lake Local Schools achieve their educational mission.”

“The Lake Local School District is appreciative of yet another gesture of neighborly support from the Owens Community College family,” said Jim Witt, Superintendent of Lake Local Schools.

Last week, Owens, in partnership with the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation, announced the expansion of the academic institution’s Success Program initiative to include all graduating high school students from public schools in Hancock County in financial need. Among the schools benefiting from the expanded Success Program in Hancock County are Arcadia High School, Arlington High School, Cory-Rawson High School, Liberty Benton High School, McComb High School, Van Buren High School and Vanlue High School. Findlay City Schools is already a partner in the Success Program initiative.

Twenty-three high schools are now involved in the Owens Success Program. In May 2009, the College expanded the Success Program to include the Washington Local School District. Prior to the May announcement, the Success Program was extended to all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district in October 2008. Both Toledo Public Schools’ Woodward High School and Findlay City Schools became the first and second educational institutions in 2008 to partner with the College’s Foundation and extend this opportunity to its students.

Two hundred forty-seven graduates in 2009 from Whitmer High School, Findlay High School and all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district in financial need are receiving a free college education to Owens as part of the College Foundation’s expanded Success Program on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. During the previous academic year, 87 Woodward and Findlay high school students chose to continue their education at Owens through the Success Program.

In the first year of the Success Program, fall enrollment from the College’s two pilot schools grew substantially as recent Woodward High School graduates increased 92 percent from the previous five-year average, and enrollment for recent Findlay High School graduates increased 43 percent.

The following year, the Success Program was expanded to include Findlay High School, Whitmer High School and all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district. Average fall enrollment for recent graduates from these schools increased 30 percent over a five-year historical average.

In order to be eligible, students must graduate from high school, be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours each semester at Owens and complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid and receive some federal Pell grant funding. Recipients must enroll at Owens during the first Fall Semester or Spring Semester following graduation and will have three years to complete their associate’s degree through the Success Program initiative.

In June, Owens and Lake Local Schools entered into a new partnership that provides the school district with a temporary home for Lake High School staff and students as a result of their educational facilities being damaged or destroyed by tornados that devastated the Northwest Ohio region. Beginning in August, over 430 Lake High School students in grades 9-12 will receive their classroom instruction at the College’s Center for Development and Training building, which is located on Tracy Road in Northwood.

Lake High School students will receive their regular comprehensive academic curriculum at the College’s Center for Development and Training building to include such course offering as art, business, computer technology, family and consumer science, music, physical education and health, and science, among other opportunities.

Owens’ 53,500 square-foot Center for Development and Training building, which housed some Workforce and Community Services and Skilled Trades Technologies educational courses, among other areas, features 10 classrooms, three computer laboratories, 34 offices, two reception areas and 12 experiential learning laboratories, all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to meet the needs of the Lake High School’s staff and students. In an effort to accommodate Lake High School’s educational needs, Owens relocated academic courses housed within the Center for Development and Training building to other campus locations.

In addition to the temporary high school building location, Owens’ Student Health and Activities Center will serve as home court to the Lake Flyers boys and girls basketball teams.

Located in northern Wood County, Lake Local Schools encompasses the villages of Walbridge, Millbury and Lake Township. The main campus, which houses grades 2-12, is located near the middle of the district and easily accessible from all communities, while grades K-1 are located in nearby Walbridge. The school district enrolls approximately 1,700 students.

For more information about the Success Program, call (567) 661- 3515 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3515.

Owens and Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation Announce New Hancock County Success Program Expansion

Posted on August 6th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – All graduating high school students from public schools in Hancock County in financial need, starting with the 2010 graduating classes, will now have the opportunity to pursue a free college education as Owens Community College and the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation announce the expansion of the academic institution’s Success Program initiative.

The expansion of the Success Program to all Hancock County students is being made possible as a result of a generous $15,000 challenge grant by the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation to establish a new Success Program Fund in February. The Owens Community College Foundation has since raised $15,000 to match the grant from the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation, enabling the two organizations to make available the Success Program to all Hancock County students.

“Owens Community College and the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation are dedicated to eliminating financial barriers for students to pursue their educational and career goals,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and Owens Foundation President. “We deeply appreciate the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation’s commitment to higher education. This partnership not only strengthens the existing Success Program we have established with Findlay City Schools, but also allows Owens to expand the program to all residents throughout Hancock County.”

Savage added, “Students within the graduating class of 2010 are eligible for the Success Program and I encourage them to contact Owens Community College if there is an interest in pursuing a college education for the upcoming Fall Semester as classes begin on August 16.”

“Supporting access to post high school training and education opportunities is one of the Community Foundation’s focus areas. Statistics show that the better educated a community is, the more prosperous it becomes,” said Katherine Kreuchauf, President of the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation. “People who continue their education beyond high school have a better chance of getting and holding on to jobs during economic down turns. Not only are we helping the individual students, we are helping the entire community become more successful.”

Among the schools benefiting from the expanded Success Program in Hancock County are Arcadia High School, Arlington High School, Cory-Rawson High School, Liberty Benton High School, McComb High School, Van Buren High School and Vanlue High School. The 2010 graduating classes from the seven schools will serve as the initial recipients of this unique program, which is designed to assist students, who receive only partial federal financial aid in the form of a Pell Grant, attend college. The Success Program will bridge the gap between the federal grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education. Findlay City Schools is already a partner in the Success Program initiative.

Twenty-two high schools are currently involved in the Owens Success Program. Most recently in May 2009, the College expanded the Success Program to include the Washington Local School District. Prior to the May announcement, the Success Program was extended to all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district in October 2008. Both Toledo Public Schools’ Woodward High School and Findlay City Schools became the first and second educational institutions in 2008 to partner with the College’s Foundation and extend this opportunity to its students.

In order to be eligible, students must graduate from high school, be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours each semester at Owens and complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid and receive some federal grant funding. Recipients must enroll at Owens during the first Fall Semester or Spring Semester following graduation and will have three years to complete their associate’s degree through the Success Program initiative.

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Hancock County area through collaborative leadership, responsible grantmaking, and the development of philanthropic giving. Established in 1992 as an outgrowth of a one-time gift from L. Dale Dorney, the Community Foundation has granted more than $20 million to fund projects that support our community. Visit www.community-foundation.com or call 419-425-1100 to learn more about how the Community Foundation is helping our community.

For more information about the Success Program, call (567) 429-3141 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3141.

Owens Community College Names New Chair of Nursing

Posted on August 3rd, 2010

Ruth Ankele

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Ruth Ankele as the new Chair of Nursing. Her responsibilities will include providing administrative leadership and oversight specific to the College’s Department of Nursing academic programs in the School of Nursing on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

In addition, her new position will entail supervising the development and implementation of new academic curricula, directing on-going program review and evaluation of the department’s academic nursing coursework, providing leadership for program accreditation and collaborating with the School of Nursing Dean on budget planning and management as well as articulation and transfer agreements specific to the Department of Nursing. Ankele will also spearhead efforts related to the enhancement of educational opportunities and resources for current and future students by furthering collaboration among educational and health care partners.

Among the academic programs under Ankele’s leadership are registered nursing, licensed practical nursing, licensed practical nursing to registered nursing, international nursing certificate and paramedic to registered nursing bridge programs.

“Owens Community College has a long and proud history of academic excellence within the Department of Nursing, which is a credit to the outstanding faculty, students and alumni,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Interim Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “It is imperative that the Department of Nursing continue forward in their pursuit of becoming the elite school for nursing in Ohio and beyond. Ruth Ankele brings to Owens an extensive and distinguishable career both in higher education and the nursing profession that will be invaluable in leading the Department of Nursing to new heights of academic excellence.”

Since August 1988, Ankele has served as the Coordinator of the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Program at The University of Toledo. While at The University of Toledo, she was responsible for the strategic direction and overall development and coordination of the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Program. Her responsibilities also included providing leadership for all activities associated with the program’s academic area of instruction, budgeting, hiring and communication with credentialing organizations that included the Ohio Board of Nursing and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. Ankele also oversaw the program’s Systematic Plan of Evaluation and served as an Assistant Professor in the College of Nursing.

In addition, Ankele served in various nursing capacities for Mercy Health Care Partners in Toledo from 1981-88 and 1990-2004 and as an NCLEX RN Reviewer for Educational Resources Inc. from 2001-04.

Her professional and community involvement includes membership with the Ohio Council of Associate Degree Nursing Educator Administrators, The University of Toledo’s Executive Council of the Faculty Senate, The University of Toledo’s College Representative to the Ohio initiative Nursing 2015 and the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Additionally, Ankele has been invited on many occasions to make presentations at state, regional and national conferences on various health-related topics and was honored as the 1995 Outstanding Full-time Faculty of the Year at The University of Toledo Community and Technical College.

The Oregon resident holds a master’s degree in medical surgical nursing from the Medical College of Ohio (now The University of Toledo Medical Center) and bachelor’s degrees in nursing and psychology from the University of Texas and Valparaiso University, respectively. In addition, Ankele holds licensure as a registered nurse in Ohio.

Owens Names New Findlay-area Campus Vice President

Posted on August 3rd, 2010

Dr. Melissa Green

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Dr. Melissa Green as the new Vice President of the Findlay-area Campus. Her responsibilities will include overseeing all aspects related to the administrative leadership, coordination and development of initiatives related to enhancing educational opportunities and resources for current and future students on the Findlay-area Campus.

In addition, Green will serve as a liaison between various College departments and faculty and staff and assist them in the coordination of academic and student services. The position will also entail the creation and implementation of strategies to enhance enrollment and retention efforts on the Findlay-area Campus, as well as serve as an ambassador for the Owens Findlay-area Campus and look to further strengthen partnerships with community, business and educational leaders in the immediate Findlay area and throughout Hancock and surrounding counties.

“Owens Community College is proud to welcome Dr. Melissa Green as the new Vice President of the Findlay-area Campus,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, President of Owens Community College. “The Findlay-area Campus plays an integral role in meeting the education and training needs of Northwest Ohio’s citizens and preparing them for career opportunities within today’s competitive workforce. Dr. Green is well-known as an educational leader and visionary among community colleges statewide and within the University System of Ohio. Her passion and advocacy for student access and success mirrors Owens Community College’s mission and vision and will be invaluable as the Findlay-area Campus looks to open new doors to innovative learning opportunities and resources for our students.”

“I am very excited to be joining the team at Owens Community College,” said Dr. Melissa Green, Vice President of the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus. “There are many wonderful opportunities ahead. I look forward to connecting the mission and values of the institution with the needs of the students and the surrounding communities.”

Since 1995, Green has served as the Vice President for Student Affairs at Rhodes State College in Lima. In addition to having over 15 years as a senior administrator at the academic institution, she has dedicated her career as an education leader within the community college and university system. Her passion for student access and success also includes nearly 18 years of adjunct teaching in the business, communication and student development areas at Rhodes State College, Bluffton University and the University of Toledo. Previously, she served as Assistant to the President at Rhodes State for three years and as Assistant Director of The Ohio State University at Lima Campus for seven years.

Green’s collaborative efforts are visible on the Rhodes State campus, throughout the community as well as at the state and national levels. She has been instrumental in the creation of various student support areas, such as, advising, disability services, off-site services and a learning assistance program. Through her leadership, Rhodes State has experienced continuous increased enrollments and two successful major gift campaigns of more than five million. Her collaborative and marketing involvement has encompassed local projects including the Rhodes/UAW/Ford Training Center, the YMCA building campaign, the early college Lima Senior MI Ready Program and many educational initiatives through the Chamber Education Committee.

Additionally, Green has extended her involvement to include board and advisory participation as President of the National Council for Student Development, President of the Ohio Student Affairs Council, Co-Chair of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges Marketing Committee and the American Association of Community Colleges Council for Inclusion and Academic Student Success. Recently, she was appointed to the State and Local Action Advisory Group for the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy.

The Lima resident earned her doctorate in educational leadership from Ohio University. Green also holds a master’s degree in executive management from Ashland University and a bachelor’s degree in marketing and management from Ohio Northern University.

Owens and Community Partners Assist Area Children With School Supply Drive, July 26 – Aug. 18

Posted on July 22nd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association in collaboration with Books-A-Million Inc., two Walt Churchill’s Market locations, three Great Lakes Credit Union branches and five Genoa Bank branches are reaching out to area children in need of school supplies by holding a month-long “Backpack to the Future” School Supply Drive beginning on Monday, July 26. Collected items will benefit low-income kindergarten-age school children throughout Northwest Ohio.

Since establishing the program in 2004, the Owens Alumni Association has given over 1,520 backpacks and over 25,710 school supplies to benefit disadvantaged children throughout Northwest Ohio.

In addition to the new community supply drive locations, area residents can bring their charitable donations to the College’s Office of Alumni Relations on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. For more information about the school supply drive, or to make a donation, contact the Alumni Relations Office at (567) 661-7876, 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7876 or alumni@owens.edu.

Owens Community College to Participate In National Project DEgree Student Success Program

Posted on July 21st, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has been selected by Gateway to College National Network to participate in a national pilot of Project DEgree to help students achieve success in their pursuit of a college education.

Owens will receive a $250,000 grant as part of the prestigious Project DEgree initiative. Over 100 students are expected to participate in the initial two-year pilot phase of the educational program, which begins this upcoming Fall Semester.

Project DEgree is designed for 18-26 year olds who have earned a high school diploma or GED, but who still require further developmental education in order to be ready for college-level coursework. The program provides students with intensive individualized academic and social supports, offers an engaging project-based curriculum within a learning community, and helps students structure their lives so they can build and maintain the momentum necessary to complete their educational goals.

“Owens Community College is honored to be chosen by Gateway to College National Network and serve as a nationwide leader in the Project DEgree educational initiative,” said Tamara Williams, Owens Interim Vice Provost. “A college education opens doors to endless possibilities and this grant will allow us to provide an innovative holistic approach to breaking down barriers for students who are need of enhanced academic and support resources. Our faculty and staff are committed to advancing learning and student success and Project DEgree will enable Owens to further its mission of providing a superior educational experience through excellence, innovation and collaboration.”

Once admitted to the program, Owens students will become members of a learning community with 20 to 25 other Project DEgree participants. Together, they will take developmental coursework in reading and writing, a college survival and success course, and receive supplemental tutoring in math. After completing their initial courses, students will progress as a learning community. The group will participate in the next sequence of reading, writing and math classes, as well as a study skills course.

The second year of the Project DEgree initiative will see Owens students transition into college-level coursework and progress toward the certificate or degree of their choice. Students will be encouraged to take 12 credit hours of coursework each semester. Additionally, each individual will be supported by a completion advisor who works in collaboration with other advising staff, providing advising and connecting students to college resources and support services.

Gateway to College National Network is a national nonprofit organization that is tackling the dropout crisis and catalyzing change across developmental education in college. Organizational strategies include creating and replicating innovative programs, building partnerships, influencing systems, conducting research and sharing what they know, helping effect policy and regulatory changes, and providing customized consulting services. The National Network also offers training, technical assistance, and professional development opportunities to Gateway to College and Project DEgree programs across the country.

Owens Community College and Clear Channel Radio Partner to Provide Free College Education

Posted on June 28th, 2010

92.5 KISS-FM, 104.7 WIOT, 101.5 The River and 103.7 CKY will begin airing promotional announcements for the contest on Tuesday, July 6.

Individuals can enter the contest by logging onto any of five websites – www.owens.edu , www.925kissfm.com, www.wiot.com, www.1015theriver.com or www.1037wcky.com – clicking on the “Tuition is Right” and correctly answering the entry question. Applicants also can enter by completing a paper entry form available at the Student Development Office on the Owens Toledo-area Campus, Information Desk on the Findlay-area Campus or the Reception Desk at the Owens Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo and Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee. All entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 1.

All qualifying entrants will be eligible to attend the first final on Wednesday, Aug. 4 at 3 p.m. at the Community Education and Wellness Center on the Owens Findlay-area Campus in Findlay. One grand prize of two semesters of free tuition and one runner-up prize of one semester of free tuition will be awarded by random draw.

All qualifying entrants who do not win a tuition prize Aug. 4 will be eligible to attend the second final on Thursday, Aug. 5 at 6 p.m. at the Student Health and Activities Center on the Owens Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. The second grand prize of two semesters of free tuition and final runner-up prize of one semester of free tuition also will be awarded by random draw.

The finals also will feature other valuable prizes drawn at random as well as free food and games.

Andy Stuart, Vice President & Market Manager of Clear Channel Radio Toledo/Findlay, looks forward to an eighth tuition promotion with Owens Community College.

“Our stations entertain thousands of listeners daily, but it’s these types of partnerships that are really satisfying,” he said. “‘The Tuition is Right’ positively impacts the lives of the four winners and encourages all individuals to strive for a higher education and a better life.”

Open to residents 16 years of age or older, the contest marks the ninth time since 2003 that Owens has partnered with Northwest Ohio media and offered a tuition contest.

Owens Community College Announces Findlay-area Campus Vice Presidential Open Forums

Posted on June 24th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College will welcome three Findlay-area Campus vice presidential finalists to the Findlay-area and Toledo-area campuses as the academic institution announces open forums for the candidates to meet employees, students and members of the community, July 13, 14 and 20.

The open forums will take place each day from 10-11 a.m. in the College’s Community Education and Wellness Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus and from 2-3 p.m. in Owens’ Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. The Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay, while the Toledo-area Campus is on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The forums are open to the public.

The three Findlay-area Campus vice presidential candidates will visit Owens’ Findlay-area and Toledo-area campuses on the following days: Judy Ennis, Project Director of the Ohio GROWs Grant with the Ohio Electrical Labor Management Cooperative Committee, on Tuesday, July 13, Dr. Melissa Green, Vice President of Student Affairs at Rhodes State College, on Wednesday, July 14, and Dr. Matthew Kinkley, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of Instructional Services at Rhodes State College, on Tuesday, July 20.

“The Vice Presidential Search Committee is pleased to welcome three finalists to the Findlay-area and Toledo-area campuses and provide them with the opportunity to share their vision about the role Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus can play in providing higher education to the Northwest Ohio region,” said Tom, Perin, Owens Executive Director of Organizational Performance and Accountability and Chair of the Findlay-area Campus Vice Presidential Search Committee. “The Vice Presidential Search Committee looks forward to their upcoming visits to Owens Community College and encourages both the campus community and area residents to participate in the upcoming open forums.”

In May, Owens began the process of selecting a new leader for the Findlay-area Campus by announcing that a regional search for a new Vice President was underway. In addition to Chair Tom Perin, the Findlay-area Campus Vice Presidential Search Committee is comprised of 10 individuals representing both the campus community and the surrounding communities. The responsibilities of the Findlay-area Campus Vice Presidential Search Committee includes reviewing applications, selecting and interviewing finalist candidates and then forwarding recommendations to President Dr. Larry McDougle.

The new Vice President, which replaces the previous Executive Dean position, will report to the President and oversee all aspects related to the administrative leadership, coordination and development of initiatives related to enhancing educational opportunities and resources for current and future students on the Findlay-area Campus.

In addition, the Vice President will serve as a liaison between various College departments and faculty and staff and assist them in the coordination of academic and student services. The position will also entail the creation and implementation of strategies to enhance enrollment and retention efforts on the Findlay-area Campus, as well as serve as an ambassador for the Owens Findlay-area Campus and look to further strengthen partnerships with community, business and educational leaders in the immediate Findlay area and throughout Hancock and surrounding counties.

Owens Students to Receive Hands-on Training During Findlay-area Campus Solar Array Installation, June 24

Posted on June 22nd, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Sixteen Owens Community College students will have the opportunity to place themselves in the shoes of a professional photovoltaic installer as the academic institution announces installation plans for the new solar array on the Findlay-area Campus.

Starting at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 24, Superior Energy Solutions LLC in Ottawa will begin the process of installing the College’s new solar array adjacent to the Community Education and Wellness Center on the Findlay-area Campus. Assisting Superior Energy Solutions in their installation efforts will be 16 students participating in the College’s Renewable Energy Program. Owens students will receive experiential learning specific to the actual mounting and wiring of each panel to the structure’s framework. The hands-on portion of the project will conclude around 4 p.m.

Owens’ new solar array is the first of two alternative energy projects taking place on the Findlay-area Campus. In addition to harnessing the sun’s energy, the College will soon be generating wind power as the academic institution recently announced plans for a new wind turbine. Installation of the new wind turbine will take place in the next two weeks by Superior Energy Solutions.

The 1.7-kilowat solar array will feature eight panels and be used for hands-on learning as well as to convert sunlight into electricity for regular operational purposes within the Community Education and Wellness Center. Photovoltaic cells within each panel will absorb the sun’s rays and create a current of power which will be directed to an inverter. The inverter will then convert the DC voltage, produced by the panels, to AC voltage.

Owens’ new solar array on the Findlay-area Campus will be different than the alternative energy technology located on the Toledo-area Campus in order to showcase different renewable energy equipment and installation techniques for students. The Findlay-area Campus solar array will feature a small inverter for each solar module, while the solar array design on Toledo-area Campus uses a single inverter for an entire group of solar panels.

Individuals attending Owens’ Photovoltaic Installation Program on the Findlay-area Campus will receive instruction within the areas of electricity and photovoltaic systems and theory. Course content includes system sizing and construction, codes and standards, interconnection safety, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Installation practices related to project management, adapting mechanical and electrical design, and system commissioning are also highlighted.

In addition, the hands-on course will include the design and installation of a grid-tied photovoltaic system and maintenance on the new solar array system at the College’s Findlay-area Campus. Various inverters, photovoltaic modules, batteries and data information systems will also be installed and operated as part of the class.

Students successfully completing the Photovoltaic Installation Program will qualify to test for the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioner (NABCEP) PV Entry Level Certificate of Knowledge program. With additional work experience students will qualify to take the national certification test as a photovoltaic system installer.

Lake Local Schools to Relocate High School to Owens’ Center for Development and Training Building

Posted on June 16th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 430 Lake High School students in grades 9-12 will have the opportunity to experience a taste of college life prior to pursuing a higher education as Owens Community College and Lake Local Schools enter into a new partnership that will provide the school district with a temporary home for Lake High School staff and students.

Beginning in August, Lake High School students will receive their classroom instruction at the College’s Center for Development and Training building, which is located on Tracy Road in Northwood.

“Owens Community College is committed to providing assistance to Lake Local Schools in its efforts to rebuild the educational facilities damaged and destroyed by the tornados that devastated the Northwest Ohio region,” said Dr. Larry G. McDougle, President of Owens Community College. “We are proud and honored to lend a helping hand to our educational neighbor and ensure that their students succeed and receive a high school education in one location.”

President McDougle added, “Our mission at Owens Community College is to serve our students and communities and this educational partnership represents institutional collaboration at its best. We look forward to welcoming Lake High School and their staff and students to the campus community this coming August.”

“Lake Local Schools is extremely appreciative to accept the offer of Owens Community College to use one of the College’s buildings as a temporary solution to house Lake High School students for the 2010-11 school year,” said Jim Witt, Superintendent of Lake Local Schools. “Our district is grateful for the generosity provided by the Board of Trustees, President McDougle and their outstanding staff.”

Lake High School students will receive their regular comprehensive academic curriculum at the College’s Center for Development and Training building to include such course offerings as art, business, computer technology, family and consumer science, music, physical education and health, and science, among other opportunities.

Owens’ 53,500 square-foot Center for Development and Training building, which houses some Workforce and Community Services and Skilled Trades Technologies educational courses, among other areas, features 10 classrooms, three computer laboratories, 34 offices, two reception areas and 12 experiential learning laboratories, all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to meet the needs of the Lake High School’s staff and students. In an effort to accommodate Lake High School’s educational needs, Owens will be relocating academic courses housed within the Center for Development and Training building to other campus locations.

83 Recent High School Graduates Begin Educational Pursuits Through Participation in Owens’ Free Summer Bridge Program

Posted on June 14th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Eighty-three recent graduates from 15 Northwest Ohio high schools will have the opportunity to experience a taste of college life for free prior to the beginning of the Fall Semester as Owens Community College announces its 2010 Bridge to Success Program. The free program is designed to help first-year students, who are underrepresented, successfully transition from high school to college.

A majority of the 83 students are members of the College’s Success Program, which affords graduating students, from 15 area high schools, in financial need the opportunity to pursue a free college education at Owens. This marks the first year that Owens has expanded the free program to graduates from 15 area high schools that are not eligible for the Success Program.

“Owens Community College is proud to provide educational opportunities, which enable students to successfully transition from high school to college,” said Tamara Williams, Owens Interim Vice Provost. “The Bridge to Success Program was created with the overall mission of assisting students, who may never aspire to attend college, succeed by providing them with the ‘Owens Experience’ and the necessary resources to achieve their academic and career goals.”

In addition, each attendee is provided with a student success mentor during the seven-week academic program and through the first year of their college experience. Students receive free academic textbooks and public transportation to and from Owens’ Toledo-area Campus. Upon the program’s completion, each student will also receive a miniature laptop computer, which will be used for interactive, experiential learning activities during their academic career at Owens.

Owens’ Bridge to Success Program begins on Monday, June 14 with an orientation for the participating students in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Room 125. The orientation will begin with opening remarks and a keynote address from 9:15-10:45 a.m. Attendees will also receive a Summer Bridge to Success Program overview, as well as hear from Owens representatives, students and Student Success mentors from 10:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. The orientation will conclude with a Bridge to Success Program induction ceremony at 1:30 p.m. for participating students.

In 2008, Owens’ Foundation announced the creation of the new Success Program, which bridges the gap between the grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education.

Fifteen high schools are currently involved in the Owens Success Program. Most recently in May 2009, the College expanded the Success Program to include the Washington Local School District. Prior to the May announcement, the Success Program was extended to all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district in October 2008. Both Toledo Public Schools’ Woodward High School and Findlay City Schools became the first and second educational institutions in 2008 to partner with the College’s Foundation and extend this opportunity to its students.

Two hundred forty-seven graduates in 2009 from Whitmer High School, Findlay High School and all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district in financial need received a free college education to Owens as part of the College Foundation’s expanded Success Program on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. During the previous academic year, 87 Woodward and Findlay high school students chose to continue their education at Owens through the Success Program.

In order to be eligible, students must graduate from high school, be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours each semester at Owens and complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid and receive some Pell grant funding. Recipients must enroll at Owens during the first Fall Semester or Spring Semester following graduation and will have three years to complete their associate’s degree through the Success Program initiative.

In addition to the Bridge to Success Program on the Toledo-area Campus, Owens is extending the same academic program to Findlay City Schools’ graduates on the Findlay-area Campus during the current summer term.

Owens Names New School of Arts and Sciences Dean

Posted on June 9th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Dr. Laurie Fathe as the new Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. Her responsibilities will include overseeing all academic programs, as well as various activities and instructional initiatives within the School.

In addition, her new position will entail supervising the development and implementation of new academic curricula, directing the on-going evaluation of the School’s courses and overseeing the assessment of student learning, articulation and transfer agreements, and the development of community partnerships to enhance educational opportunities and resources for current and future students.

“We are honored to have Dr. Laurie Fathe serving as the new Dean for Owens’ School of Arts and Sciences,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Interim Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “The School of Arts and Sciences, which is recognized nationally for its innovation, provides hundreds of students with seamless opportunities to four-year institutions each year, as well as supports students from throughout the College in their educational endeavors. Dr. Fathe is a visionary leader who brings extensive knowledge and experience in higher education to Owens Community College, which will be invaluable in elevating the School of Arts and Sciences to a new level of academic excellence.”

Fathe’s higher educational career includes serving as Associate Provost for Educational Improvement and Innovation at George Mason University from 2001-07. While at George Mason, she was responsible for the support and education of the academic institution’s faculty in teaching, assessment, student learning and scholarship. As part of the Provost’s senior staff, Fathe oversaw educational efforts specific to instruction, faculty evaluation, program assessment, and promoting and rewarding faculty educational excellence. Additionally, she assisted George Mason’s research into educational effectiveness, provided organization and oversight of the university-funded undergraduate research program and coordinated the planning and implementation of the Program for Innovative Education. Fathe also served as a faculty member in the Higher Education Program at George Mason.

Since August 2007, Fathe has served as an Educational Consultant for colleges and universities throughout the country. Academic areas in which Fathe has provided consultative leadership and guidance include external evaluation for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) projects, professional development for faculty members and administrators, grant writing and STEM curriculum development. Fathe also served as the Principal Investigator/Director for the Los Angeles Collaborative for Teaching Excellence from 1996-2000.

Her professional and community involvement includes serving as the Organizer and Report Author for “A Meeting of the Minds” symposium consisting of 24 leaders in STEM teacher preparation at community colleges in 2008 and an Advisory Board member for “The Effort of STEM Faculty Engagement in MSP: A Longitudinal Perspective”, a five-year National Science Foundation-funded project to evaluate the impact of major nationally funded teacher preparation efforts from 2004-09. Fathe also was a Report Coordinator for the National Research Council proceedings for “Mathematics and Science Partnership Workshop on Challenging Courses and Curricula” and “Mathematics and Science Partnership Workshop on Focusing on the Role of Higher Education and Math/Science Partnerships” in 2006.

The North Olmsted resident earned both her doctorate and master’s degree in electrical engineering/quantum electronics from the University of Southern California. Fathe received a second master’s degree in solid state physics from the University of Illinois and a bachelor’s degree in physics from Miami University.

Owens Board of Trustees Names Dr. Larry G. McDougle President

Posted on June 8th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Board of Trustees has ended its presidential search and selected Dr. Larry G. McDougle to serve as the academic institution’s new President. Dr. McDougle has been serving as the College’s Interim President since January of this year.

The Board of Trustees approved Dr. McDougle’s appointment as the fifth President in the 45-year history of Owens Community College during their regular June meeting. Both the Board of Trustees and Dr. McDougle have agreed to a one-year contract.

According to Owens Community College Board of Trustees Chair Dee Talmage, the Presidential Search Committee was planning to reconvene in June to review additional applications, however, after receiving overwhelming feedback from the College’s campus community as well as community members in support of Dr. McDougle and his leadership the decision was made to end the search.

“During the past six months, Dr. Larry McDougle’s leadership and experience has been integral in bringing the Owens Community College campus community together and moving the academic institution forward during challenging times,” stated Board of Trustees Chair Talmage.

She added, “The Northwest Ohio region as well as the state and country are currently experiencing economic hardship and instability that has not been seen in decades, which has thrust the role of higher education into the national spotlight. Colleges and universities must continue to adapt to the changing times in order to prepare a highly trained and highly skilled workforce. Dr. McDougle is well-respected among educational and community leaders nationwide and is committed to the College’s mission of serving our students. He is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and the right person to lead Owens Community College.”

“I look forward to continuing to work with Dr. McDougle as Owens Community College works to meet the educational needs of students in Northwest Ohio,” said Ohio Board of Regents Chancellor Eric D. Fingerhut. “His experience and commitment to education and to Owens Community College is invaluable to the University System of Ohio.”

Ohio Association of Community Colleges President Dr. Ronald Abrams, extended congratulations to both Dr. McDougle and Owens Community College. “Larry is a true friend and advocate of community colleges and has displayed an unwavering commitment to higher education throughout his years of service,” Dr. Abrams said. “His measured approach to leading a community college, along with his wealth of knowledge and experience, will continue to prove beneficial for Owens and the surrounding community.”

“Owens Community College has a long and proud tradition of providing a superior educational experience through excellence, innovation and collaboration and I embrace this opportunity to serve the students, faculty and staff as the academic institution’s new President,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, President of Owens Community College.

President McDougle added, “Higher education plays a vital role in our region’s economic development, vitality and productivity. In order for Northwest Ohio to be successful, businesses, industry and academic institutions alike must strengthen our partnerships to compete in today’s global economy. I foresee even more collaborations ahead as Owens Community College will remain ambitious in its pursuit of opening new doors to higher educational opportunities.”

Since becoming the College’s Interim President in January, McDougle has worked tirelessly to reach out and engage Owens faculty, staff and students, as well as community and educational partners, with the purpose of advancing higher education for area residents throughout Northwest Ohio and beyond. Under his leadership, the College has expanded educational opportunities to Arrowhead Park in Maumee and unveiled a new Learning Center, as well as opened the doors to a newly renovated Founders Hall. The College is currently in the midst of refurbishing Heritage Hall at the former Penta Career Center as part of Owens’ ongoing campus expansion initiative.

Other initiatives include the opening of a new Faculty Development Center on Toledo-area Campus, as well as announcing plans for a new wind turbine and solar array on the Findlay-area Campus. Additionally, Owens recently began the implementation of a new Energy Strategic Plan, which is projected to annually reduce energy by over 20 percent once the initiative is fully operational, and further enhanced educational services for students through the creation of an OServe area. In addition, a new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program was unveiled in March. The program is designed to provide graduating high school students achieving academic excellence at the highest level the opportunity to pursue a free college education.

Also under President McDougle’s leadership, a thorough analysis of the registered nursing program, as well as with all other academic programs, has and will continue to take place to ensure that a situation involving the loss of accreditation with an academic program does not happen again. A new review process is now in place for all academic programs. Additionally, the School of Nursing is currently working diligently on regaining NLNAC registered nursing program accreditation with the overall goal of becoming an elite school for nursing in Ohio and beyond.

President McDougle brings to Owens more than 40 years of experience in higher education as a faculty member and administrator in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and South Carolina. President McDougle was named the fourth President of Northwest State Community College in 1991 and retired as President Emeritus in 2003. During his tenure, Northwest State doubled in size, both in terms of enrollment and physical plant. Additionally, President McDougle served as Academic Dean of Instruction in the Community and Technical College of the University of Toledo from 1984-91.

In addition, he is the author of more than 60 articles, which have been published in a variety of professional journals, and has been invited to make presentations at more than 150 state, regional and national conferences.

Owens Community College to Host Lake High School Commencement Ceremony, June 8

Posted on June 7th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – One hundred ten Lake High School graduating seniors will be honored for achieving academic excellence and receive their diplomas at Owens Community College as the academic institution will serve as host to Lake Local Schools commencement ceremony on Tuesday, June 8.

The graduation event will occur at 7 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Owens Expands Renewable Energy Plans to Feature New Findlay-area Campus Solar Array

Posted on June 2nd, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College will soon be harnessing the sun’s energy in addition to generating wind power as the academic institution announces plans for the installation of the first solar array on the Findlay-area Campus. Both alternative energy resources will be installed concurrently in late June.

The solar array will be used for educational training within Workforce and Community Services’ Photovoltaic Installation Program as well as for future academic curriculum programming in the School of Technology. Both alternative energy resources will be located adjacent to the College’s Community Education and Wellness Center.

“The installation of a state-of-the-art solar array to complement the new wind turbine brings alternative energy education to the forefront in the Hancock County region,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “Owens Community College is committed to providing students access to innovative learning opportunities and exposing the surrounding communities to the growing fields of solar and wind power.”

According Bankey, the new solar array on the Findlay-area Campus will be different than the alternative energy technology located on the Toledo-area Campus in order to showcase different renewable energy equipment and installation techniques for students.

“The solar array on the Findlay-area Campus will feature a small inverter for each solar module, which is an innovative installation technique. The other solar array design uses a single inverter for an entire group of solar panels,” explained Bankey. “Owens is planning to offer the new Findlay-area Campus Photovoltaic Installation Program to area residents in the coming months.”

Individuals attending Owens’ Photovoltaic Installation Program will receive instruction within the areas of electricity and photovoltaic systems and theory. Course content includes system sizing and construction, codes and standards, interconnection safety, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Installation practices related to project management, adapting mechanical and electrical design, and system commissioning are also highlighted.

Owens Community College Announces Plans for New Findlay-area Campus Wind Turbine

Posted on May 20th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College is once again expanding its educational opportunities within the area of renewable energy by announcing plans for the academic institution’s first wind turbine on the Findlay-area Campus.

The College’s new state-of-the-art technology, which will be located adjacent to the College’s Community Education and Wellness Center, will be used for experiential learning purposes within Workforce and Community Services’ Wind Installation Program as well as for future academic curriculum programming in the School of Technology.

“Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services is committed to providing area residents leading-edge academic resources and programming within the growing field of alternative and renewable energy,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “The new wind turbine on the Findlay-area Campus will play an important role in affording our students the chance to receive hands-on, experiential learning at the highest level. The use of wind power is growing nationwide as it is becoming a more viable option for commercial business and residential home consumption. Owens Community College is proud to promote the continued development of wind power through community outreach advocacy and educational opportunities.”

In addition to its instructional utilization for the College’s Wind Installation Program, the 2.4-kilowatt wind turbine generator will be used to convert wind power into electricity for regular operational purposes within the Community Education and Wellness Center. The 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine is a fully integrated, utility-connected wind generator designed specifically for residential and small commercial businesses.

According Bankey, Owens’ Workforce and Community Services is planning to offer its initial academic course offerings within the Wind Installation Program on Findlay-area Campus to area residents in the near future.

Individuals attending Owens’ Wind Installation Program will receive instruction within the areas of installation, operation and maintenance of wind turbines. Course content includes training in wind measurement, system terminology and connection to a power grid, among other areas. Installation practices related to installation safety, basics of electricity, interconnection with the utility, siting, battery metering, and load management and energy efficiency are also highlighted.

Additionally, the hands-on applications will include studying the design and installation of the College’s new 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine on the Findlay-area Campus.

Superior Energy Solutions LLC in Ottawa will oversee the process of installing the College’s new wind turbine in late June.

In addition to Findlay-area Campus’ new wind turbine, Owens features an identical 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine and a 120-foot EW50 wind turbine on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. Both wind turbines are used for experiential learning and to convert wind power into electricity for regular operational purposes within the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building.

Owens Community College Announces Regional Search for New Vice President of Findlay-area Campus

Posted on May 12th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College is beginning the process of selecting a new leader for the Findlay-area Campus by announcing that a regional search for a new Vice President will occur in May and June 2010.

The vice presidential search process is being led by Owens Director of Organizational Performance and Accountability Tom Perin, who will serve as Chair of the Findlay-area Campus Vice Presidential Search Committee. Additionally, 10 individuals representing both the campus community and the surrounding communities have been chosen to serve on the Findlay-area Campus Vice Presidential Search Committee and assist in the selection of a new Vice President of the Owens Findlay-area Campus.

Findlay-area Campus Vice Presidential Search Committee members include Katherine Kreuchauf, President of The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation; David Whikehart, Director of Climate Change and Carbon Management at Marathon Petroleum Company and member of Owens Foundation Board of Directors; Betsy Johnson, Director of Financial Aid; Verne Walker, Director of Teaching Learning Success Center; Robert Connour, Professor of Science; Daniel Routzon, Instructor of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness; Pete Mendieta, Maintenance Specialist; John Routzon, Assistant Director of Security Division; Janet Tornow, Advocate, and Owens Findlay-area Campus student Misty Sorg.

“Owens Community College has assembled an outstanding group of individuals who are committed to the future of higher education in Findlay and the surrounding communities,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, Interim President of Owens Community College. “I look forward to a highly competitive search process as we identify a new leader for the Findlay-area Campus. Our goal is to have a new Vice President in place by the start of the 2010 Fall Semester.”

The responsibilities of the Findlay-area Campus Vice Presidential Search Committee will include reviewing applications, selecting and interviewing finalist candidates and then forwarding recommendations to Interim President Dr. McDougle.

The regional search is being conducted to replace Judy Ennis, who served as the Executive Dean of Findlay-area Campus from 2004-09. Brian Paskvan has served as the Interim Executive Dean of the Findlay-area Campus since 2009.

1,205 Owens Community College Students to Graduate During Spring Commencement, May 7

Posted on April 30th, 2010

Andrea Gurcsik

Bethany Steiner

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – One thousand two hundred five candidates for graduation, including 201 from the Findlay-area Campus, will receive their degrees during the 44th annual Owens Community College Spring Commencement on Friday, May 7. The commencement will begin at 7 p.m. at The University of Toledo’s Savage Arena.

Andrea Gurcsik, Manager of Human Resources for First Solar Inc., the largest manufacturer of solar modules in the world, and Owens Community College alumna, will serve as the keynote speaker for the College’s Spring Commencement. Owens’ commencement ceremony is free and open to the public.

In her capacity as Human Resources Manager, Gurcsik is responsible for managing First Solar’s human resource function for the company’s Perrysburg location. She was previously employed at the TolTest, The University of Toledo and S.E. Johnson Companies Inc.

Active in the field of human resources, Gurcsik serves as the State Director for the Society for Human Resource Management State Council and was the Past Conference Chair for the Ohio Human Resource Conference and the Past President of the Toledo Area Human Resource Association Board of Directors.

Gurcsik is a 1999 graduate of Owens with a degree in business administration. She went on to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from The University of Toledo. She is currently a Director and serves as Vice President for the Owens Alumni Association. Her accomplishments include being named The University of Toledo College of Business Administration’s “Young Alumni of the Year” in 2005 and in 2006 was a recipient of the Toledo area’s “20 Under 40” Leadership Award.

A resident of Maumee and a graduate of Cardinal Stritch High School, Gurcsik enjoys spending time with her husband, Gary, and their dog, Muddy, who is named after the Toledo Mud Hens mascot.

Bethany Steiner, a diagnostic medical sonography student, has been selected as the Owens class representative and will address the graduates during the Spring Commencement ceremony.

The Rawson resident always envisioned attending a four-year college and a future career as a social worker. However, within weeks of beginning her studies, Steiner knew she was heading down the wrong career path and a change was in order.

After a foot injury and a few X-rays, Steiner’s career direction became clearer and she began to research related careers in sonography. The shadowing of a professional sonographer reinforced her interest and passion in the field and led to pursuing her educational and career aspirations at Owens.

“Attending Owens is the best decision I ever made,” stated Steiner, a 2007 Cory-Rawson High School graduate. “It has been nothing but a great experience and I love what I am doing.”

Steiner’s love for diagnostic medical sonography is evident in the classroom as she is graduating with a 4.0 grade point average. According to her professors, she has exceptional clinical skills and is an excellent example of the arduous work completed by all students at Owens.

Steiner, who is a member of Tomorrow’s Imagers student organization at Owens, credits her educational success to her spiritual faith. She is extremely thankful for the support of her family, including parents, Rich and Patti and fiancÈ, Kris. She is also thankful for the quality teaching and extra effort demonstrated by the faculty at Owens, especially Susan Perry.

Steiner’s commencement speech will address her motto that it is better to be an energy giver than an energy taker and the remarkable difference that one person can make in the world through small actions.

“We have shoulders to cry on, arms to embrace, smiles to brighten someone’s day and words and actions that can positively change one life at a time,” explained Steiner.

After graduation, she plans on obtaining a full-time position in health care and pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Steiner envisions one day returning to Owens and helping other students by becoming an open lab instructor.

‘Green’ Community Organizations Celebrate Earth Day 2010 with Lucas County Court House Spring Beautification, April 22

Posted on April 21st, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club, the Toledo Botanical Garden, The Ohio State University Extension-Lucas County master gardeners, Maumee Valley Growers and Earthworks representatives will spend a morning at the Lucas County Court House volunteering their time beautifying the grounds as the organizations join millions of individuals nationwide in celebration of Earth Day 2010 on Thursday, April 22.

Beginning at 9 a.m., volunteers will roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty by participating in a variety of general spring clean-up projects as well as helping with the maintenance of landscape beds and plantings to include pruning, weeding and mulching. Representatives will conclude their volunteer beautification efforts around 12 p.m. that same day.

The group of volunteers plans to return to the Lucas County Court House in mid May to plant flowers and annuals as part of the beautification efforts.

Additionally, the volunteer service project is occurring in conjunction with the nationwide PLANET (Professional Landcare Network) Day of Service. The program is designed to unite PLANET members around the country for a day of giving back to their communities. PLANET is an international association serving lawn care professionals, landscape management contractors, design/build/installation professionals and interior plantscapers. The organization provides its members with a good business foundation to help them evaluate, plan and better manage their companies.

The Earth Day Network was founded on the premise that all people, regardless of race, gender, income or geography, have a moral right to a healthy, sustainable environment. The organization mission is to broaden and diversify the environmental movement worldwide, and to mobilize it as the most effective vehicle for promoting a healthy, sustainable environment. The Earth Day Network has a global reach with more than 20,000 partners and organizations in 190 countries. More than one billion people participate in Earth Day activities, making it the largest secular civic event in the world.

Owens Community College Announces Presidential Finalists Open Forums, April 26-28

Posted on April 19th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will welcome the three presidential finalists to the Findlay-area and Toledo-area campuses as the academic institution announces open forums for the candidates to meet employees, students and members of the community, April 26-28.

The open forums will take place each day (April 26-28) from 9-10 a.m. in the College’s Conference Center on the Findlay-area Campus and from 1-2 p.m. in Owens’ Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. The Findlay-area Campus is located Bright Road in Findlay, while the Toledo-area Campus is on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The forums are open to the public.

The three presidential finalists will visit Northwest Ohio on the following days: Dr. James Richardson, President of Wenatchee Valley College in Wenatchee, Wash. on Monday, April 26, Dr. Danette Toone, Vice President of Academic and Community Initiatives of Temple College in Temple, Texas on Tuesday, April 27, and Dr. Para Jones, President of Spartanburg Community College in Spartanburg, S.C. on Wednesday, April 28.

“I am extremely pleased to welcome the three presidential finalists to Owens Community College and the Northwest Ohio region and encourage campus employees and students as well as area residents to attend the upcoming forums,” said John C. Moore, Owens Presidential Search Committee Chair and Board of Trustees member. “I would also like to extend my appreciation to the Presidential Search Committee for devoting their time and providing their diverse views and perspectives to the presidential search process.”

Moore added, “Owens Community College is committed to meeting the needs of the surrounding communities by providing a superior educational experience through excellence, innovation and collaboration. The Board of Trustees looks forward to the next phase of the search process with the ultimate goal of having a new Owens President in place by the start of the 2010 Fall Semester.”

Earlier this year, the Board of Trustees announced that a national search for the new President of Owens Community College was underway to succeed Dr. Christa Adams, who retired in January, after having served as President of Owens since July 2001. Dr. Larry McDougle has served as the College’s Interim President since the beginning of January. The presidential search process is being led by Owens Board of Trustees member John C. Moore, who is serving as Chair of the Presidential Search Committee.

The Board of Trustees has enlisted the services of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) to assist in conducting the presidential search. Founded in 1972, the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) is a nonprofit educational organization of Board of Trustees of community, technical and junior colleges. ACCT’s purpose is to strengthen the capacity of community, technical and junior colleges to realize their missions through effective Board of Trustee leadership, education and advocacy at local, state and national levels.

ACCT has a long and distinguished history of working with governing boards and providing executive search assistance to more than 300 community colleges. Based in Washington, D.C., ACCT is recognized nationally for its unique ability to provide comprehensive search assistance, recruitment on a diverse and quality pool of candidates, suggestions on process, and preparation of search materials and guidance to the Board of Trustees.

Rotary Club of Perrysburg Adds $20,000 to Endowed Scholarship Program at Owens

Posted on April 7th, 2010

Rotary Club of Perrysburg President Ken Robinson (L to R), Owens Executive Director of College Development and Foundation President Ann Savage, Rotary Club of Perrysburg STRIVE Chair Walter Celley, Penta Career Center Superintendent Ron Matter and Penta Career Center Assistant Superintendent Randy Richardson pose for photo following the donation presentation.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Rotary Club of Perrysburg and its Foundation continues to invest in the future of higher education within Northwest Ohio by presenting the Owens Community College Foundation with a $20,000 donation to provide Penta Career Center graduates the opportunity to pursue their academic and career aspirations. The $20,000 donation will be used to grow the recently-established scholarship program to $40,000 of endowed funds.

“Owens Community College appreciates the Rotary Club of Perrysburg’s continued support and commitment to helping future Penta Career Center graduates in their pursuit of a college education,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and Foundation President. “A college education can open doors to endless possibilities and Owens Community College is proud to collaborate with the Rotary Club of Perrysburg to make such academic opportunities for area residents a reality.”

In November 2009, Owens and the Rotary of Club Perrysburg announced the establishment of the new endowed scholarship program with an initial $20,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Perrysburg’s Foundation to fund the endowment.

The new scholarship will be awarded to a Penta Career Center high school graduate who has completed at least a two-year program at the school. Selection criteria for the new scholarship program will also include that the recipient attend Perrysburg, Lake or Rossford high school and achieve a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average. Additionally, the recipient must be able to demonstrate significant participation in community service activities during high school and financial need. Recipients, who will be selected through a process of screenings and interviews, will be assigned a Rotary mentor and must remain in contact during the term of the scholarship.

Scholarships will not have a stated amount, but are intended to provide a fully paid college education through the attainment of an associate’s degree from Owens. The Rotary Club of Perrysburg’s overall goal is to grow the scholarship program into a $100,000 endowment.

The new endowed scholarship initiative is a continuation of a longstanding partnership among the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, Penta Career Center and Owens which was forged in 2001 with the establishment of the Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education (STRIVE) Program. The overall mission of the STRIVE Program, which is a program of Rotary International and may be adopted by a local Rotary Club, is to provide educational assistance and encouragement to high school students with the goal of improving their grades, attitudes and attendance during their senior year.

Now in its ninth year of existence, the STRIVE partnership between the Rotary Club of Perrysburg and Penta Career Center has resulted in 172 students graduating from the program. Overall, the Rotary Club of Perrysburg has provided nearly $50,000 of funding for the local STRIVE initiative. Since 2003, the Owens Community College Foundation has provided matching scholarship funds in the amount of $2,500 per year for STRIVE students to attend Owens. The collaboration among the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, Penta Career Center and Owens has grown into the Perrysburg Rotary Service Foundation Scholarship Endowment Fund. STRIVE graduates from any Penta Career Center member school district are eligible for the Rotary Scholarship.

The Owens Community College Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.2 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 25 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

The Rotary Club of Perrysburg has more than 120 business, professional and community leaders, primarily from the Perrysburg area, as its membership. The current Club President is Ken Robinson and the Foundation Chair is John Welch. The Club was chartered in 1979. The Perrysburg Rotary Service Foundation was formed in 1985 and has funded over $600,000 for charitable projects in the Perrysburg community and internationally.

Owens Foundation ‘UnCommon Evening’ Raises Over $50,000 for Success Program Scholarships

Posted on March 31st, 2010

Over 230 individuals recently enjoyed “An UnCommon Evening” of dinner and entertainment in support of the Owens Success Scholarship Program.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – More than 230 area residents recently enjoyed “An UnCommon Evening” of dinner and entertainment in support of the Success Scholarship Program as Owens Community College’s Foundation held its fundraising gala at the Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons. The event’s success resulted in the Owens Foundation raising over $50,000 in support of scholarships for future Owens Success Program students.

“The Owens Community College Foundation’s ‘An UnCommon Evening’ was a huge success and would not have been possible without the overwhelming support of Northwest Ohio’s companies, as well as area residents,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and Foundation President. “Their generous contributions will go along way in expanding the Success Scholarship Program to additional schools and assisting even more students with financial need achieve their educational and career aspirations.”

All “An UnCommon Evening” proceeds will benefit Owens scholarships through the Success Program. In February 2008, Owens and the College’s Foundation announced the first stage of its Success Scholarship Program designed to make college affordable for high school graduates with financial need. Piloted at Woodward and Findlay high schools, the scholarship bridges the gap between a student’s financial grant aid and the cost of tuition and fees at Owens. For the 2009-10 academic year, the Success Program has been expanded to include the entire Toledo Public School District as well as Whitmer High School.

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.2 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 25 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Interim President Dr. Larry McDougle provided welcoming remarks to “An UnCommon Evening” attendees.	Attendees were welcomed to the scholarship gala with entertainment by TAPESTRY, which featured Owens Fine and Performing Arts Adjunct Faculty member Denise Grupp-Verbon on folk harp and Michael Grupp-Verbon on acoustic guitar.
Owens Fine and Performing Arts Instructor Jeremy Meier (right) served as the evening’s master of ceremonies with Owens students Megan Wasserman and Anthony Hunter providing “uncommon” comic relief as assistant emcees.	The Owens Jazz Express provided musical entertainment as well as the Owens Dance Company, the Owens Guitar Ensemble and The Glassmen Drum and Bugle Corps.

Owens Community College Announces New Academic Achievement Scholarship Program

Posted on March 30th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area graduating high school students achieving academic excellence at the highest level will now have the opportunity to pursue a free college education at Owens Community College as the academic institution announces the establishment of a new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program.

The 2010 high school graduating class will serve as the first individuals to qualify for this unique program. Eligible students for the new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program include those who are ranked within the top 10 percent of their graduating classes or who have achieved at least a 3.5 grade point average at their career center school, among other criteria.

“Every student graduating from high school should have the opportunity to pursue a college education,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development. “Owens Community College’s new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program was created with the goal that financial barriers should not deter students from their educational pursuits and career aspirations. This academic initiative is an investment in the future of higher education within the Northwest Ohio region.”

The new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program will be offered to qualifying students graduating from public and private high schools as well as career centers within the College’s legal district, which encompasses Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties and parts of Ottawa and Sandusky counties.

Public and private high school graduates who are ranked within the top five percent of their graduating class will have the opportunity to receive an Academic Achievement Scholarship for 100 percent of their tuition. Eligibility requirements will also include that students must achieve a composite score of at least 27 on their ACT and/or COMPASS scores meeting or exceeding 94 on writing skills and 69 on college algebra. In addition, students who are ranked within the top six to 10 percent of their graduating class will be eligible to receive an Academic Achievement Scholarship for 50 percent of their tuition. In order to be eligible, students must obtain an ACT and/or COMPASS score, which would ensure their place into college level courses prior to enrolling at Owens.

The new Academic Achievement Scholarship Program will also be awarded to graduating high school students attending career centers within the College’s legal district. Graduating students achieving a 3.7 grade point average from their career center and at least a 27 on their ACT and/or COMPASS scores meeting or exceeding 94 on writing skills and 69 on college algebra will be eligible to receive an Academic Achievement Scholarship for 100 percent of their tuition. Individuals achieving a 3.5 grade point average and an ACT and/or COMPASS score placing them into college level courses prior to enrolling at Owens will be eligible for an Academic Achievement Scholarship for 50 percent of their tuition.

Academic Achievement Scholarship Program recipients will be required to enroll fulltime at Owens for the Fall Semester following their high school graduation and maintain a 3.0 grade point average. Additionally, scholarship students must submit a graduation plan and will be required to meet with an Owens advisor each semester to demonstrate progress toward their plan. Eligibility requirements will also include involvement in either the College’s Honors Program or a leadership symposium each semester as part of their graduation plan.

In addition, students must complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to receive the scholarship. If the student receives aid, the Academic Achievement Scholarship Program will bridge the gap between any federal or state grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education. Students who are not eligible for federal and state grant aid and meet the academic requirements will still be eligible for the Academic Achievement Scholarship Program.

Owens Community College Showcases Newly Upgraded ‘Green’ Auto Body Refinishing Lab

Posted on March 30th, 2010

Owens, BASF and I-CAR Education Foundation officials as well as community and industry leaders pose for a photo following the unveiling of a newly upgraded “Green” Auto Body Refinishing Laboratory.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College representatives recently joined I-CAR Education Foundation and BASF leaders to officially showcase the latest innovative academic resources on the Toledo-area Campus as the academic institution unveiled a newly upgraded ‘Green’ Auto Body Refinishing Laboratory. With this new equipment, Owens becomes one of the first academic institutions in the Midwest to feature BASF environmental-friendly waterborne refinish technology.

The newly upgraded educational area will support and promote experiential learning at the highest level through an array of state-of-art educational resources to include a new ONYX HD Waterborne Basecoat System and other equipment, which are generously donated by BASF through the I-CAR Education Foundation.

“Owens Community College appreciates the commitment I-CAR Education Foundation and BASF are making to furthering access to higher education through innovative academic resources,” said Tracy Campbell, Owens Chair of Transportation Technologies. “The new waterborne basecoat technology is becoming the standard leader within the automotive industry as more and more organizations are moving toward the more cost-efficient, environmentally-friendly low-VOC coating. This donation will enable the College’s Auto Body Refinish Technician program to provide leading edge educational training, utilizing the latest industry resources and equipment to complement the automotive industry.”

Owens Assistant Professor of Transportation Technologies Jeff Howard added, “This donation will provide our students the opportunity to be trained with products and equipment that are the way of the future. They will understand firsthand the benefits that this new technology will provide to the refinish technician, the repair facility and the environment.”

In addition to becoming one of the first academic institutions in the Midwest to feature BASF waterborne refinish technology, Owens will be placing an emphasis on educating students about the importance of reducing basecoat solvent emissions from an environmental standpoint through its experiential learning curriculum.

BASF OEM and Industry Relations Manager Joseph Skurka stated, “BASF believes in the I-CAR Education Foundation’s goal of supporting the future of the industry. We are delighted to assist Owens Community College with its conversion to waterborne refinish technology.”

“We are hearing reports across the country how schools are closing or programs are being cut due to budgetary concerns,” stated Scott Kruger, I-CAR Education Foundation Executive Director. “BASF stepping up with this donation not only assists Owens Community College with costs for their collision program but is also providing the school the opportunity to teach with the latest in waterborne equipment and tools. The Foundation was able to match Owens Community College’s request for waterborne equipment through its 2009 “Ultimate Collision Education Makeover” grant application. We thank BASF for their continued support of the Education Foundation and for helping Owens with this equipment up-grade.”

Owens is the only public academic institution in Ohio to offer an Auto Body Refinish Technician program. Students have the opportunity to pursue a certificate while preparing them for careers in automotive painting and refinishing at dealerships or independently-owned auto body collision repair centers nationwide. Certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and a member of the I-CAR Training Alliance, Owens’ program requires 21-credit hours of academic coursework which includes panel and hardware replacement, sheet metal repair, plastic metal repair, refinishing and collision repair estimating. All refinish courses feature BASF products, which enables students to learn color matching using COLOR-MAX2, paint formula retrieval using SmartTRAKIII, as well as exploring operations using VisionPlus Business Solutions.

The I-CAR Education Foundation, founded in 1991, is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to securing donations that support philanthropic and collision repair activities that promote and enhance career opportunities in the industry. For more information on how to donate to programs supported by the Education Foundation visit www.ed-foundation.org.

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Owens Auto Body Program student John-Paul Huntoon of Findlay mixes and matches a finish in preparation for spraying in the newly upgraded ‘Green’ Auto Body Refinishing Laboratory.

Owens Auto Body Program student Andrew Billmyer of Temperance, Mich., applies waterborne refinishing paint to an automotive fender.
Owens is one of the first academic institutions in the Midwest to feature BASF environmental-friendly waterborne refinish technology.	Owens Assistant Professor of Transportation Technologies Jeff Howard discusses the new environmental-friendly waterborne refinish technology during the unveiling ceremony.

Owens Alumni Association Accepting Nominations for Outstanding Service Award Celebration Through April 1

Posted on March 24th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is recognizing the tremendous contribution that area police, fire and emergency medical professionals make to Northwest Ohio’s surrounding communities by hosting the seventh annual Outstanding Service Awards. The recipients will be honored as part of a community celebration on Friday, April 23.

The College’s Alumni Association is presently accepting nominations for the Outstanding Service Awards. Area residents are invited to nominate an individual or individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations need to be returned to the College’s Office of Alumni Relations and Special Events by Thursday, April 1. The award is not limited to a single recipient, and the College’s Alumni Association encourages the nomination of more than one person when teamwork was the key element in their success.

The seventh annual Outstanding Service Awards Celebration will begin at 8 a.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission is free and the public is encouraged to attend, however, reservations are required.

Owens Students Spending Spring Break Rebuilding Existing Houses in Slidell, La., March 6-14

Posted on March 4th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – A group of Owens Community College students are heading south for Spring Break, not for fun in the warm tropical sun, but to refurbish houses and to bring normalcy back to the residents of Slidell, La., whose lives were devastated by the destructive forces of Hurricane Katrina.

A week of manual labor is awaiting four students as they depart Northwest Ohio at 7 a.m. on Saturday, March 6 from Owens’ College Hall parking lot and head south to Slidell, La. The focus of the trip is to assist in rebuilding existing homes for those in need of housing.

The group of volunteers will spend one week working with Presbyterian Community Outreach of Slidell dry-walling, painting, framing, roofing, tiling floors and installing siding and insulation, as well as many other desired tasks, in existing houses in the Slidell area.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity to go the Slidell area and give the community hope for the future,” said Owens student Damian Maes of Liberty Center.

For Owens student Amber Hage-Ali of Toledo, the trip to Slidell provides a unique chance to help those less fortunate.

“Many of us are very fortunate to live comfortably with all the basic necessities. That is not the case for all individuals in Slidell,” explained Hage-Ali. “I don’t want to take the little things for granted and would rather spend a week helping others than on a sunny beach for spring break.”

Owens student Cary Burnette of Oregon reiterated similar comments by saying “it is our chance to do our part and give back to others.”

Owens students volunteering their time to participate in the humanitarian efforts are Nancy Jones of Toledo, Amber Hage-Ali of Toledo, Damian Maes of Liberty Center and Cary Burnette of Oregon. Also accompanying the students to the Slidell region are Owens Adjunct Faculty member James Oberlander of Bowling Green and Tom Vollmer of Toledo.

Group members are expected to return to Northwest Ohio and Owens Community College on Sunday, March 14.

Owens and The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation Announce New Success Program Fund Partnership

Posted on February 17th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College and The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation are entering into a new partnership which will eventually afford all graduating high school students in financial need throughout Hancock County the opportunity to pursue a free college education as the two organizations announce the creation of a new Success Program Fund.

The new partnership is being made possible as a result of a generous $15,000 challenge grant by The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation. As a result of the collaboration, the Owens Community College Foundation will be charged with raising $15,000 to match the grant from The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation.

“Owens Community College appreciates The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation’s commitment to furthering access to higher education,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and Foundation President. “The Success Program was established to eliminate financial barriers for individuals to pursue their education and career aspirations. This new partnership between The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation and Owens Community College provides a strong foundation for sustaining the current program with Findlay City Schools and eventually expanding the program to all residents throughout Hancock County.”

Savage added, “Owens Community College’s Foundation is currently beginning the process of growing the matching challenge grant and will be hosting a Success Scholarship Program benefit gala in March to raise additional funds for this initiative.”

“More than ever before, community colleges provide an affordable bridge to four-year programs as well as a pathway for high school graduates who want to be competitive in a changing workforce. So often, families write off post-high school education as too expensive. This program opens the doors for hundreds of young people to start building a career right out of high school,” said Katherine Kreuchauf, President of The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation. “One of the Community Foundation’s core areas of support is education. This partnership with Owens adds another way we can help students and help the region stay economically vital and competitive.”

Among the schools expected to eventually benefit from the expanded Success Program in Hancock County are Arcadia High School, Arlington High School, Cory-Rawson High School, Liberty Benton High School, McComb High School, Van Buren High School and Vanlue High School. All graduating classes from the seven schools will have the opportunity to participate in this unique program, which is designed to assist students, who receive only partial federal financial aid in the form of a Pell Grant, attend college. The Success Program will bridge the gap between the federal grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education. Findlay City Schools is already a partner in the Success Program initiative.

“In the first year of the Success Program, enrollment from our two pilot schools increased substantially,” stated Savage. “Fall enrollment for recent Woodward High School graduates increased 92 percent from the previous five-year average, and enrollment for recent Findlay High School graduates increased 43 percent.”

Savage added, “What is even more remarkable is that when the Success Program was expanded to include Findlay High School, Whitmer High School and all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district, average fall enrollment for recent graduates from these schools increased 30 percent over a five-year historical average. Eliminating financial barriers through the Success Program is making a difference and Owens Community College is committed to expanding such educational opportunities.”

In order to be eligible, students must graduate from high school, be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours each semester at Owens and complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid and receive some federal grant funding. Recipients must enroll at Owens during the first Fall Semester or Spring Semester following graduation and will have three years to complete their associate’s degree through the Success Program initiative.

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.2 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 24 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

On Friday, March 26, the Owens Foundation will present an evening of food and entertainment in support of the Success Scholarship Program as the academic institution and the Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons host “An UnCommon Evening” in Perrysburg. For more information about the event, call (567) 661-7603 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7603.

Owens Community College to Participate in $5 Million Bioscience Workforce Training Grant Targeting Ohio’s Displaced Workers

Posted on February 15th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College in collaboration with five other community colleges and BioOhio have been selected to receive a five million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration to implement the Ohio Bioscience Industry Workforce Preparedness project.

The three-year project will provide training to 660 displaced or underemployed workers in declining industries to become better equipped for careers in Ohio’s growing biomedical industry. In addition, 40 incumbent workers will receive more advanced training to move into higher level jobs, creating new entry level job opportunities for unemployed adults.

In addition to Owens, other partners in the statewide project consortium include Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, Columbus State Community College, Cuyahoga Community College, Lakeland Community College and Sinclair Community College, with strong support from the Ohio Board of Regents. CAEL (The Council for Adult and Experiential Learning), a national non-profit organization focused on workforce development and adult learning, will serve a technical assistance role.

“Owens Community College’s selection as a partner in the Ohio Bioscience Industry Workforce Preparedness project is a direct reflection on this academic institution’s commitment to providing leading edge training in the growing bioscience industry,” said Mark Durivage, Owens Dean of the School of Technology. “We look forward to working with our business, industry and educational partners and further strengthening Ohio’s economic growth and vitality through higher education.”

“The bioscience industry continues to grow and will be a key component of our economic recovery,” said U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown. “These funds will allow BioOhio to continue to transform the workforce development system for this emerging industry and create new jobs for Ohioans. A skilled workforce is a critical component of economic development and job creation.”

“Bioscience’s emergence as a key growth industry in Ohio can only be maintained with an abundance of well qualified workers,” BioOhio President and CEO Tony Dennis said. “This project enables BioOhio and its community college partners to accelerate the growth of high paying bioscience jobs by producing well-qualified workers.”

Project activity will focus on four regions in Ohio, which include five mixed urban/suburban metropolitan areas: Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton and Toledo. In each region, consortium colleges will serve as the regional project leaders, heading up a team of employers, workforce agencies, labor groups and community partners.

Each regional team, with guidance from BioOhio, will refine recruitment, assessment, support, placement and retention strategies to ensure trainee success. Most of the training within the project will provide participants with an industry recognized credential. Participants who enroll in training activities which don’t result in a credential will receive course credits.

Eleven biomedical employers have formally committed to partnering on the project, with additions possible in the coming months. Organizational partners include Ben Venue Laboratories, STERIS and Affymetrix in Northeast Ohio; Roxane, PharmaForce and International Specialty Products in Central Ohio; Amylin, Alkermes, Eurand and IMDS in Southwest Ohio; and NAMSA (North American Science Associates Inc.) in Northwest Ohio.

These employers will play a critical role in helping develop more completely articulated industry career pathways and ensuring that the knowledge and skills needed to perform successfully in their industry are adequately addressed. They also have pledged to consider qualified applicants who complete project training programs for openings in their organizations.

“Ohio is becoming the ideal location for getting biomedical products to market,” said BioOhio Senior Director of Workforce Bill Tacon. “Workers completing this training will directly contribute to Ohio’s strengths, especially in manufacturing and testing.”

The Ohio Department of Development’s Regional Workforce Development Directors and Business Service Representatives will promote the new program to displaced workers and encourage bioscience employers to draw their emerging workforce from this labor pool.

BioOhio (formerly Omeris) is a non-profit organization supported by the Thomas Edison Program of the Ohio Department of Development. Its mission is to accelerate bioscience discovery, innovation and commercialization of global value, driving economic growth and improving quality of life in Ohio. BioOhio is headquartered in Columbus, with regional business development affiliates in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Athens.

Owens Dental Hygiene Program Brightens Smiles During Nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day

Posted on February 9th, 2010

Owens dental hygiene student Allysha Wells of Forest provides free dental service to Cole McClary of Perrysburg.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Oral hygiene, pearly white teeth and smiling faces were abundant at Owens Community College as more than 150 area children received free dental service courtesy of the Dental Hygiene program as part of the nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day.

For five-year-old Bailey Hillman of Luckey, the experience of having her teeth cleaned was “pretty cool”. Showing off her shiny white teeth to her grandmother, Sharon Swartz of Luckey, Bailey was excited to see her take-home gifts that included SpongeBob Squarepants toothpaste.

“I like my new toothpaste because SpongeBob is my favorite,” said a proud Bailey while holding up her gift. “Having my teeth cleaned tickled a little bit.”

“Give Kids A Smile Day is a great event, which makes children aware of the importance of brushing their teeth and getting their teeth cleaned,” said Bailey’s grandmother Sharon. “I want to thank Owens Community College for making this day possible.”

Laura Hughes-Williams of Perrysburg, whose eight-year-old daughter Kendra Williams attended the event, added, “Owens Community College cares about the community and children. Give Kids A Smile Day provides a great opportunity to promote healthy living.”

According to Beth Tronolone, Owens Chair of Dental Hygiene, Give Kids A Smile Day is also a wonderful opportunity to raise the importance and awareness of preventive dental care such as flossing, brushing and regular dental visits.

Eight-year-old Kendra Williams of Perrysburg (seated) is all smiles before her teeth cleaning with Owens dental hygiene student Jenell Yaichner of Archbold.

“If untreated, tooth decay just continues to get worse and affects children’s overall health,” Tronolone stated. “Owens Community College’s Dental Hygiene program is proud to once again participate in such a worthwhile endeavor and provide dental services to individuals in need. Our goal during Give Kids A Smile Day is to provide each attendee with a positive dental experience and help them feel comfortable smiling again.”

Tronolone added, “Owens’ Dental Hygiene program is extremely appreciative to all our friends and partners to include Dental Hygiene program students, faculty and alumni, and area dentists, as well as Penta Career Center faculty and students, for volunteering their time and helping local children in need of proper dental care. The day was once again a huge success because of their efforts.”

One of the individuals returning to the College’s Dental Hygiene Clinic to volunteer her time at Give Kids A Smile Day was 2007 Owens dental hygiene alum Stephanie Nester of Portland, Mich. Now employed at a dental practice in Lansing, Mich., and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from The Ohio State University, Nester believes it is important to give back to the community.

“Community service is very important and I always enjoy returning to Owens and helping the Dental Hygiene program provide access to dental care,” stated Nester.

A decorative cup and instruments await the next teeth cleaning during Give Kids A Smile Day at Owens.

Five-year-old Joe Wassef of Holland learns about his teeth from Owens dental hygiene student Julie Paszczykowski of Toledo during a Give Kids A Smile educational program at the Dental Hygiene Clinic.

Owens dental hygiene alum Stephanie Nester of Portland, Mich., (right) assists Owens dental hygiene student Jenell Yaichner of Archbold with some paperwork.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 3rd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Diana H. Talmage and H. Richard Rowe to serve as the Chair and Vice Chair for the College’s Board of Trustees. Talmage and Rowe were elected to their positions by their fellow colleagues during the recent Owens Board of Trustees meeting and will serve one-year terms.

Initially appointed in November 2002, Talmage, a retired educator and former school board member, has held several leadership positions at the K-12 and higher education levels. Her professional and community involvement includes membership with the American Red Cross, the Flower Hospital Foundation, TARTA and the Lucas County Children Services. An Ottawa Hills resident, Talmage received her master’s degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Toledo and a bachelor’s degree in education from The Ohio State University. Additionally, Talmage serves as a board member and holds the position of Secretary on the Owens Community College Foundation.

Rowe serves as a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments in Findlay. He attended Bowling Green State University and holds a Series 7 Securities License as well as a Life and Health Insurance License. The Findlay resident was initially appointed to the College’s Board of Trustees in March 2004. Rowe’s professional and community involvement includes the Kiwanis Club of Findlay and the United Way of Hancock County and he served as a City Councilman for ten years in Findlay. In addition, Rowe serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees Finance Committee.

The College’s Board of Trustees is comprised of nine community leaders from Lucas, Wood, Hancock and Sandusky counties who are appointed by the Governor of Ohio for six-year terms.

In addition to Talmage and Rowe, Owens Board of Trustees members include John G. Ault of Perrysburg, David Habegger of Oregon, Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg, R J Molter of Woodville, John C. Moore of Holland and William E. Takacs of Toledo.

Owens Community College Unveils New Faculty Development Center

Posted on January 28th, 2010

Owens’ Lauren Ferguson demonstrates the new SmartBoard technology in the Faculty Development Center.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Center for Teaching and Learning Success representatives recently joined the campus community to officially open the doors to the latest innovative academic resources on the Toledo-area Campus as the academic institution unveiled a new Faculty Development Center.

“Owens Community College’s new Faculty Development Center is dedicated to serving our students and the surrounding communities by providing faculty members and Owens representatives working with students with centralized resources and services that support and promote service, learning, innovation, collaboration and excellence,” said Verne Walker, Owens Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning Success.

Owens Special Projects Coordinator Lauren Ferguson added, “This new educational area will support and promote teaching and learning success at the highest level through an array of professional development opportunities that are focused on fostering innovation and academic excellence.”

The College’s new Faculty Development Center features the latest in state-of-the-art technology and innovative educational resources for enhancing teaching and learning.

Resources and services available within the Faculty Development Center will include an array of workshops, seminars and programs that are focused on technology integration within the classroom and professional development specific to leadership, creative thinking, scholarly innovation, and teaching and learning strategies and practices. Among the professional development opportunities are online teaching and learning, grant writing, classroom assessment, program level assessment, teaching methodologies, academic course design/syllabus, social networking, podcasting/vodcasting, self-evaluations, smart technology and online new faculty orientation.

In addition, Owens’ Faculty Development Center will feature the latest in state-of-the-art technology and innovative educational resources for enhancing teaching and learning highlighted by eight HP Elitebook 8530P Notebook PCs, seven Cyber Acoustics ACM-70 Headphones, four Logitech Webcams Pro 9000, two Epson Perfection V300 Photo Color Scanners, five Wacom Bamboo Fun Pen Tablets, four eInstruction Interwrite Pads, TurningPoint Technology Clickers, an HP Laptop Charging Station, an HP Laptop with projector for presentations and a SmartBoard, among other technological equipment.

Owens Foundation Helps Students Achieve Academic Dreams through 2010-11 Scholarship Program Opportunities

Posted on January 22nd, 2010

Through the generosity of businesses and individuals within the surrounding communities, the Owens Foundation will offer current and future students the opportunity to apply for over 50 available scholarships for the upcoming 2010-11 academic year. Scholarship applicants must complete and return the application to the Office of Financial Aid on either the Toledo-area or Findlay-area campus by Friday, Feb. 26. Scholarship award notification will begin in April and will continue until all awards have been made.

For scholarships based on financial need, a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application for the 2010-11 academic year must be on file in the College’s Office of Financial Aid by Friday, Feb. 26. FAFSA and Foundation Scholarship Program forms are available in the College’s Office of Financial Aid or can be downloaded by accessing the Owens website at www.owens.edu.

In addition, Owens currently participates in several need-based federal and state funded grant programs, work study opportunities, and loans, which all require applicants to file a FAFSA form to determine financial need. Specific programs accessible to students include the Federal Pell Grant, the Federal Academic Competitiveness Grant, the Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant, the Owens Community College Grant, the Federal Direct Stafford Loan, the Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan and Federal Work Study, among others.

This past academic year, Owens provided more than $80.5 million in grants, scholarships, loans and federal work study to support the educational needs of students. For more information on the various scholarship opportunities, call (567) 661-7603 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7603.

Owens Dedicates New Arrowhead Park Learning Center

Posted on January 19th, 2010

Owens’ new Arrowhead Park Learning Center will provide expanded educational opportunities for area residents in Western Lucas County.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents along with community leaders and public officials recently were provided the opportunity to receive a firsthand look at Owens Community College’s new Arrowhead Park Learning Center as the academic institution officially opened the doors to the new educational complex in Western Lucas County.

During the festivities, attendees were given the chance to tour the newly renovated facility, as well as learn about Owens’ many educational opportunities. Owens’ new Arrowhead Park Learning Center is located at 1724 Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

“Owens Community College is committed to meeting the education and training needs of the surrounding communities in Northwest Ohio,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “The Arrowhead Park Learning Center will enable the College’s Workforce and Community Services to broaden its workforce development and training programs for area businesses and students and further support local economic growth and vitality within the region.”

Owens Vice President of Student Services Dr. Bill Ivoska added, “As an academic institution, Owens Community College is continuously looking for opportunities to provide greater access to higher education. Situated within close proximity to the Interstate-475 corridor, the new Arrowhead Park Learning Center opens new doors to an Owens education within the Western Lucas County region.”

Owens officials, community leaders and public officials opened the new Arrowhead Park Learning Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Individuals assisting with the ribbon cutting ceremony included (L to R) Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Director of Capital Planning Tom Horrall, Ohio State Representative Randy Gardner, Owens Board of Trustees Vice Chair Dee Talmage, Maumee Mayor Timothy Wagener, Owens Interim President Dr. Larry McDougle, Owens Board of Trustees Dr. Ron McMaster, Owens Board of Trustees John Ault, Owens Board of Trustees R J Molter and Owens Board of Trustees Allan Libbe.

The new Arrowhead Park location will provide an array academic course options for students with aspirations of pursuing their associate’s degree or certificate from Owens. Academic courses available to students during the current Spring Semester include accounting, astronomy, business, climate and weather, economics, English, government, health science, humanities, information systems, leadership, marketing and sales, mathematics, office administration, psychology, sociology, Spanish and speech.

Additionally, the Arrowhead Park Learning Center serves as the new home to the College’s Workforce and Community Services.

Owens’ Workforce and Community Services is dedicated to providing customer-driven workforce development, job training and continuing education for business, industry and area residents throughout Northwest Ohio. Workforce and Community Services’ learning-centered approach focuses on developing and enhancing professional skills to meet the needs of the community, customizing academic curriculum in the areas of professional development, computer and software applications, health and fitness, artful living, personal development, real estate, children’s programming, and apprenticeship-related training and skilled trades.

The renovated 24,665 square-foot site in Arrowhead Park features 13 classrooms, four computer laboratories, 19 offices, one reception area and one state tested nursing assistant laboratory, all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to provide expanded educational choices and options that meet the current and future needs of students and businesses throughout the region.

Each academic classroom is equipped with multimedia capability, while the computer laboratories feature the latest in computing resources for educational training instruction. The state tested nursing assistant laboratory houses state-of-the-art technology and academic resources that prepare students for careers as nurse assistants. Additionally, individuals are able to use an array of software applications and programming languages within the laboratories as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

Designed by the firm The Collaborative Inc. in Toledo, the exterior of the building features a tan color over the existing single-story masonry structure as well as a signature Owens logo atop the complex’s main entrance. Program Solutions Group LLC in Perrysburg served as the project manager.

Owens Interim President Dr. Larry McDougle provided comments to attendees at the Arrowhead Park Learning Center Grand Opening Celebration.

In addition to offering higher education on its Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens within the last two years has expanded its access to educational opportunities within Northwest Ohio through the creation of new on-site academic and support services at The Source, Lucas County’s One-Stop Employment Center in downtown Toledo.

Owens Community College Opens New $2.6 Million Renovated Founders Hall for Spring Semester, Jan. 7

Posted on January 6th, 2010

Owens’ newly renovated $2.6 million Founders Hall building features the latest in educational resources for current and future students.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will usher in 2010 by unveiling a newly renovated $2.6 million Founders Hall building featuring the latest in educational resources as the academic institution begins its Spring Semester on Thursday, Jan. 7.

In addition to providing educational opportunities to thousands of students, Founders Hall (formerly known as the Penta Career Center Administration Building) will serve as the new home to the College’s Departments of English, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Communications, Humanities and Languages, as well as the Dean for the School of Arts and Sciences.

“Owens Community College is pleased to open the doors to a newly refurbished Founders Hall and share its enriched learning opportunities and innovative educational resources with our students and the surrounding communities,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Interim Provost of Owens Community College. “Founders Hall is a welcome addition to the campus community and continues our College’s longstanding commitment to meeting the needs of the Northwest Ohio region through academic excellence.”

The College’s newly renovated 29,045 square-foot Founders Hall building is situated at the south end of the Toledo-area Campus, which formerly served as home to the Penta Career Center. Owens’ signature red and black logo as well as an expansive red wall with an array of inspirational words in black, white and gray lettering welcomes individuals upon entering the educational center. Among the words highlighted on the elongated exterior and interior red wall include Success, Learning, Leadership, Collaboration, Opportunity, Excellence, Innovation and Service.

Located at the center of Founders Hall, the commons area will represent the heart of student activity in the educational building highlighted by an open-air atrium where students will have the opportunity to relax, study or access the Internet between classes. Once through one of the two main entrances, individuals will also notice an expansive glass skylight atop the atrium ceiling, which allows for a noticeable amount of sunlight into the educational building.

Founders Hall features eight instructional classrooms, two instructional computer classrooms and one open computer laboratory all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to provide expanded educational choices and options that meet the current and future needs of students.

Each academic classroom is equipped with innovative multimedia capability for educational instruction highlighted by the College’s first-ever dedicated instructor stations in which Owens faculty can utilize an Extron Control Panel system. Serving as the classroom’s focal point from a technological standpoint, the Extron Control Panel system features a dedicated computer within the podium, a digital document camera, a Blu-ray DVD Player, and audio amplifier and speakers. Academic classrooms also house ceiling mounted digital/analog and high definition capable projectors and eight-foot electronic operated screens for instructional purposes, while the computer laboratories feature the latest in computing resources, including an array of software applications and programming languages as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

The educational center also features 65 offices, four conference rooms, an expansive employee lounge, and men’s and women’s restroom facilities. In addition, Founders Hall includes three interactive learning labs where students can meet one-on-one or in a small group setting with their fellow peers, tutors and/or instructors in a comfortable educational environment designed to enhance academic learning and success.

Designed with energy efficiency and conservation in mind, each room’s bank of lights automatically power down after a period of time without detected movement. Additional windows and lightwells were included to reduce the necessity for some electric lighting and to allow more natural light into the complex. The entire facility includes building automation heating and air conditioning as well as wireless Internet access. Infrastructure was also added to the existing building for future looping and sharing of district heating.

Designed by the firm Poggemeyer Design Group Inc. of Bowling Green, the exterior of the building features tan brick faÁade, while the color red is present atop the building’s entrances. Mosser Construction Inc. of Fremont served as the general contractor, while Mondo Mechanical Co. of Toledo, Helm and Associates Inc. of Maumee, Northwest Electrical Contractor of Holland and Absolute Fire Protection Inc. of Perrysburg oversaw the plumbing, mechanical, electrical and fire protection contracts, respectively.

In addition to the recently completed Founders Hall renovation project, the College is currently in the midst of refurbishing Heritage Hall at the former Penta Career Center as part of Owens’ ongoing campus expansion initiative. Once completed in the summer of 2010, the first phase of Heritage Hall will serve as the new home for the School of Business and Information Systems and the School of Nursing.

Owens Community College and Heidelberg University Announce New Dual Admission and Enrollment Program Partnership

Posted on January 4th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students with aspirations of pursuing a bachelor’s degree from Heidelberg University will now be able to continue their academic pursuits while attending both academic institutions as the two schools have finalized a unique Dual Admission Program partnership.

As a result of the new collaboration, Owens students will be afforded the opportunity to complete academic coursework while simultaneously enrolled at the two schools. Owens students can participate in the new program with the start of the upcoming Spring Semester.

“Owens Community College is very excited about this new partnership with Heidelberg University,” said Tamara Williams, Owens Associate Vice Provost. “The Dual Admission Program provides an opportunity for those Owens students interested in pursuing their bachelor’s degree to begin that educational journey while enrolled at both academic institutions.”

Williams added, “Heidelberg University is a vibrant learning community that is dedicated to intellectual, personal and professional development and Owens Community College is proud to align our educational philosophies for the betterment of providing greater access to enhanced learning opportunities for our students.”

“Heidelberg University is also very excited about having Owens Community College as a Dual Admission and Enrollment partner,” said Susan Stine, Associate Director of Admission at Heidelberg University. “We look forward to working with Owens students to help them progress toward completing a bachelor’s degree in the most efficient and cost effective manner possible.”

Owens students will have the opportunity to enroll in a maximum of three credit hours of coursework (four credit hours if a laboratory course) at Heidelberg University during the Fall and Spring semester for a maximum of four semesters as part of the new Dual Admission Program. Dual Admission Program students can enroll in an array of courses at Heidelberg University including general education and major specific courses required at both academic institutions. Coursework successfully completed through the Dual Admission Program will transfer and be applied toward fulfilling degree requirements at both academic institutions.

In addition, the dual admission option provides Owens students with access to academic advising at Heidelberg. Individuals will also be issued a Heidelberg student ID, which will provide access to an array of Heidelberg services to include library privileges as well as campus events and activities to broaden their academic experience. Additionally, upon transferring to Heidelberg, Owens students within the Dual Admission Program are eligible for a $2,000 Partnership Grant and may also qualify for a $4,000 Transfer Academic Award or a $6,000 Phi Theta Kappa Merit Scholarship. These grants and scholarships are available for full-time enrollment on the Tiffin campus.

Students enrolled in Heidelberg classes as part of the Dual Admission Program will pay Owens’ tuition costs. Dual Admission Program classes will occur at Heidelberg University in Tiffin and the academic institution’s Arrowhead Park campus in Maumee.

The new Dual Admission Program partnership builds upon a longstanding articulation agreement between the respective institutions which enables Owens students to seamlessly transfer to Heidelberg and pursue their bachelor’s degree, with junior standing, after completing their associate’s degree.

For more information about the new Dual Admission Program, call (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777, or (419) 448-2330 or 1-800-HEIDELBERG.

Heidelberg, founded in 1850, offers 36 courses of study in 19 major fields of concentration, awarding the bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, bachelor of music, master’s degrees in education, counseling, business administration and music. For more information visit the website at www.heidlberg.edu.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Announce Presidential Search Committee Representatives

Posted on December 22nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Seventeen individuals representing both the campus community and the surrounding communities have been chosen to serve on the Presidential Search Ad Hoc Committee and assist in the selection of the new Owens Community College President. The new Presidential Search Committee will be appointed to their leadership positions on Wednesday, Jan. 6.

The Board of Trustees recently announced that a national search for the new President of Owens Community College is underway and will continue in 2010. The national search is being conducted to succeed Dr. Christa Adams, who has announced she will retire Jan. 1, after having served as President of Owens Community College since July 2001. The presidential search process is being led by Owens Board of Trustees Chair John C. Moore, who is serving as Chair of the Presidential Search Committee.

Individuals already appointed by Board of Trustees Chair Moore to the committee are Board of Trustees Vice Chair Diana H. Talmage and Board of Trustees Immediate Past Chair Dr. Ronald A. McMaster. Presidential Search Committee members will also include Jim Geers, retired Vice President of Global Human Resources for Cooper Tire and Rubber Company and a member of the Owens Foundation Board of Directors; David Seeger, President and CEO of Great Lakes Credit Union Inc. and President of the Alumni Association; Barbara Brotzki, Owens student and Student Government Treasurer; Elisa Huss-Hage, Professor of Teacher Education and Human Services; Dr. Marian J. Moore, Instructor of Social and Behavioral Sciences; Janet Pinkelman, Associate Professor of Nursing; Eric Duling, Professor of Design Technologies; Wayne Seely, Associate Professor of Law Enforcement; Cleveland Henderson Jr., Adjunct Faculty member of First Year Experience in Center for Teaching and Learning; Tom Perin, Director of Organizational Performance and Accountability; Marie Vasquez-Brooks, Chair of Allied Health; Willie Williams, Director of the Learning Center at The Source; Tara Pope, Security Officer; and Veronica Herrera, Secretary in the School of Business and Information Systems.

“The Board of Trustees is extremely pleased to announce the group of individuals who will play an integral role in selecting the next leader of Owens Community College,” said Board of Trustees Chair Moore. “We have assembled an outstanding team with varied backgrounds and experiences, from both the campus community and the surrounding communities, to provide their diverse views and perspectives to the presidential search process. The Board of Trustees looks forward to a highly competitive search process with the ultimate goal of having a new Owens President in place in 2010.”

The responsibilities of the Presidential Search Committee will include assisting with the process for finalizing the presidential profile specific to the position announcement and description, reviewing applications, selecting and interviewing semi-final candidates and then forwarding recommendations to the Board of Trustees.

Presidential Search Committee members will be appointed to their new positions on Wednesday, Jan. 6 as part of Presidential Search Open Forums facilitated by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Consultant Dr. Narcisa Polonio on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The Presidential Search Open Forums are designed to allow Owens employees and community members the opportunity to share their thoughts related to the challenges and opportunities Owens must address in the next five to 10 years, as well as the background and experience, educational qualifications, and professional and personal characteristics that the Board of Trustees should seek in the next President.

The first Presidential Search Open Forum will occur from 1-2 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 123-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens’ second Presidential Search Open Forum will take place from 3:15-4:15 p.m. in the Conference Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. The College’s Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the Findlay-area Campus is on Bright Road in Findlay.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Name Dr. Larry G. McDougle Interim President

Posted on December 21st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Larry G. McDougle to serve as Interim President. Dr. McDougle will formally assume the new responsibilities Jan. 1. The Board of Trustees recently announced that a national search for the new President of Owens Community College is underway and will continue in 2010.

The national search is being conducted to succeed Dr. Christa Adams, who has announced she will retire Jan. 1, after having served as President of Owens Community College since July 2001. The presidential search process is being led by Owens Board of Trustees Chair John C. Moore, who is serving as Chair of the yet-to-be-named Presidential Search Ad Hoc Committee. Individuals already appointed by Board of Trustees Chair Moore to the committee are Board of Trustees Vice Chair Diana H. Talmage and Board of Trustees Immediate Past Chair Dr. Ronald A. McMaster.

“Dr. Larry McDougle is highly respected among higher education and community leaders within the Northwest Ohio region and beyond,” said John C. Moore, Board of Trustees Chair of Owens Community College. “He is the ideal person to lead Owens Community College and build on this academic institution’s mission and vision of providing a superior educational experience through excellence, innovation and collaboration.”

Board of Trustees Chair Moore added, “Dr. McDougle is also well aware that as with any academic institution there are challenges and the Board of Trustees is confident in his ability to work through those challenges and position and elevate Owens to the next level of academic excellence. The Board of Trustees is now focusing its full and undivided attention on conducting a national search to select the next leader of Owens Community College.”

“I am honored to accept this position as Interim President of Owens Community College and look forward to working with the faculty, staff and students as well as the community partners and helping our students reach their highest educational goals and career ambitions,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, Interim President of Owens Community College.

Dr. McDougle brings to Owens more than 40 years of experience in higher education as a faculty member and administrator in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and South Carolina. Dr. McDougle was named the fourth President of Northwest State Community College in 1991 and retired as President Emeritus in 2003. During his tenure, Northwest State doubled in size, both in terms of enrollment and physical plant. Additionally, Dr. McDougle served as Academic Dean of Instruction in the Community and Technical College of the University of Toledo from 1984-91.

Since his retirement, Dr. McDougle has been a part-time faculty member in the University of Toledo Higher Education program, which is designed to prepare students for positions as college administrators. His professional background also includes serving as a tenured Professor at Indiana University, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and the University of Toledo.

Dr. McDougle has received many honors to include an Honorary Doctor of Educational Leadership in 1998 and the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2009, both from the University of Findlay. In 1996, he received the Philip J. Rusche Distinguished Service Award from the University of Toledo College of Education and Allied Professions. Two years later, Dr. McDougle was awarded the John C. Hoyt Outstanding Employment and Training Leadership Award from the Toledo Area Private Industry Council.

Nationally, Dr. McDougle has held Board of Directors-level positions with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Membership Advisory Council of NFPA, the Midwest Society for Human Resources/Industrial Relations Chapter of the Midwest Business Administration Association and the Membership Committee of the American Technical Education Association (ATEA).

In Ohio, he served on the Ohio Board of Regents Advisory Committee on Service Achievement and has been a member of the Board of Trustees for Mercy College of Northwest Ohio, the Northwest Ohio Regional Economic Development (NORED), the Regional Growth Partnership (RGP) and the Henry County Business Advisory Council.

Dr. McDougle earned a doctorate in higher education from the University of Toledo. The Napoleon resident holds a master’s degree in physics from Kent State University and a bachelor’s degree in math-physics from the University of Findlay.

Owens Community College Provost Paul Unger Announces Retirement Plans

Posted on December 16th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Executive Vice President/Provost Dr. Paul Unger has announced his retirement effective Jan. 1 at the conclusion of the current Fall Semester.

In addition to his duties as Executive Vice President/Provost, Dr. Unger has been serving as Acting President of the College since President Dr. Christa Adams announced her plans to retire earlier this month. The Board of Trustees is currently in the process of identifying an Interim President to serve until a permanent replacement can be found. At its December meeting, the Board of Trustees announced its plans to conduct a national search for a new President in 2010.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Chair John C. Moore reluctantly accepted Dr. Unger’s decision to retire. “We tried to persuade Dr. Unger to change his mind and remain as Executive Vice President/Provost but, unfortunately, his decision is firm. We are very grateful to him for his leadership over the years and especially during the past few months. Over and over, he has demonstrated his commitment to continuously improve the academic standards at Owens Community College and this academic institution is a better place today because of his dedication and leadership.”

Board of Trustees Chair Moore added, “We expect to announce an Interim President very soon and are confident that we will have someone in place for the upcoming Spring Semester. The Board of Trustees will then focus our full attention on conducting a national search for a new President.”

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure at Owens Community College over that last 18 years and am proud of all the accomplishments that I have been able to be a part of in serving our community,” said Dr. Paul Unger, Executive Vice President/Provost of Owens Community College. “I want to thank the Board of Trustees for their leadership and support of the College and I wish everyone at Owens all the best in the years to come.”

Dr. Unger joined the College as Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer in July 1992. He was named Executive Vice President/Provost in addition to continuing as Chief Academic Officer for Owens in May 2006. In his current position, Dr. Unger oversees the areas of Student Services, Academic Services and Workforce and Community Services. He has served as Provost for Owens since September 2002.

Since his arrival at Owens, Dr. Unger has been instrumental in supporting the infusion of state-of-the-art technology throughout the academic programs and the addition of the baccalaureate transfer curriculum in 1994 as the College was chartered from a Technical College to a State Community College. He also worked to secure the permanent Charter of the College as a State Community College and created the weekend college and distance learning offerings that currently enroll thousands of students, as well as provided leadership in the expansion of academic curriculum to meet the needs of the surrounding communities.

Other educational efforts spearheaded by Dr. Unger include the development of the Center for Emergency Preparedness and the College expanding its educational opportunities to Maumee’s Arrowhead Park for the upcoming spring term, as well as the acquiring of millions of dollars in both private and public grants for educational programs and resources. His leadership efforts also played a significant role in the College opening the Owens Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, which provides educational opportunities to area residents throughout the region.

Dr. Unger’s dedication to public service includes membership with the State of Ohio Chief Academic Officers of Two-Year Colleges, Northwest Ohio Tech Prep Consortium and National Council of Instructional Administrators. An advocate for higher education at the state level, Dr. Unger is also a member of many statewide committees with the Ohio Board of Regents.

Prior to coming to Owens, Dr. Unger served as the Dean of Business at Lima Technical College from 1986-92 and Policy Analyst for The National Center for Research in Vocational Education (NCRVE) at The Ohio State University from 1983-86.

Dr. Unger holds a doctorate degree in community college administration from The Ohio State University. After serving in the United States Marine Corps, he earned his master’s degree and bachelor’s degree in business from Central Michigan University and Wright State University, respectively. He resides in Sylvania.

In addition, Owens’ Vice Provost Dr. Renay Scott will be named to the position of Interim Provost effective Jan. 1. Dr. Scott, who has served as the College’s Vice Provost since September of this year, is responsible for assisting with all aspects related to the supervision and administrative leadership of the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Health Sciences and the Library on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Additionally, Dr. Scott administers the College’s program review and assessment system and oversees Owens’ faculty professional development plan, the Honors Program and service learning.

Dr. Scott joined the College in June 2006 as Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. In that position, her responsibilities included overseeing all instructional programs and activities within the School. Dr. Scott also supervised the development and implementation of new academic curricula, directed the on-going evaluation of the School’s courses and collaborated with the fellow academic deans to enhance opportunities and resources for current and future students. She currently serves as Owens’ Chairperson of the Student Learning Assessment Committee and is a member of the College’s Board of Trustees Community Partnership Standing Committee and the Foundations of Excellence Steering Committee.

Prior to working at Owens, Dr. Scott served as the Chair for the Department of Teacher Education and Professional Development at Central Michigan University for three years. While at Central Michigan, she was responsible for overseeing over 2,000 students as well as 39 full-time and 40 part-time faculty members. Dr. Scott also played a significant role in cultivating and furthering partnerships between Central Michigan and the area public schools, community colleges and educational service organizations.

Her professional and community involvement includes membership with the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development and the International Reading Association. Additionally, she is a Leadership Toledo Board member, an Ohio Board of Regents Transfer and Advisory Committee member, a Lourdes College Teacher Education Advisory Board member, a Bowling Green State University National Science Foundation Grant Internal Advisory Committee member and currently is serving as an Assessment Academy Reviewer for The Higher Learning Commission of North Central Association. Honored for her teaching excellence, Dr. Scott in 2004 received the Michigan Council for the Social Studies’ Outstanding Social Studies Teacher Educator for work at the collegiate level. In 2009, she was honored with the College’s Exemplary Administrator Award.

Dr. Scott received a bachelor’s degree in secondary social studies education from Calvin College and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Michigan State University. The Toledo resident holds a doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction from Wayne State University.

Owens Community College Unveils Plans to New Educational Complex at Maumee’s Arrowhead Park

Posted on December 10th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is expanding access to higher education opportunities within Northwest Ohio by unveiling plans for a new educational complex at Arrowhead Park in Maumee. The new on-site educational service center in Maumee will provide convenient access to higher education for area residents, businesses and industries beginning January 2010.

The new location within Western Lucas County will provide an array academic course options for students with aspirations of pursuing their associate’s degree or certificate from Owens. Additionally, the educational center will serve as the new home for the College’s Workforce and Community Services division.

The renovated 24,665 square-foot site in Arrowhead Park will feature 12 classrooms, four computer laboratories, 19 offices, one reception area and one state tested nursing assistant laboratory, all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to provide expanded educational choices and options that meet the current and future needs of students and businesses throughout the region. Situated within close proximity to the Interstate-475 corridor, Owens’ new center will be located at 1724 Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

Each academic classroom will be equipped with multimedia capability, while the computer laboratories will feature the latest in computing resources for educational training instruction. The state tested nursing assistant laboratory will house state-of-the-art technology and academic resources that prepare students for careers as nurse assistants. Additionally, individuals will be able to use an array of software applications and programming languages within the laboratories as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

Designed by the firm The Collaborative Inc. in Toledo, the exterior of the building will feature a gray color over the existing single-story masonry structure as well as a signature Owens logo atop the complex’s main entrance. Program Solutions Group LLC in Perrysburg is serving as the project manager.

Owens’ Workforce and Community Services, which currently is located at 2249 Tracy Rd. in Northwood, is dedicated to providing customer-driven workforce development, job training and continuing education for business, industry and area residents throughout Northwest Ohio. Workforce and Community Services’ learning-centered approach focuses on developing and enhancing professional skills to meet the needs of the community, customizing academic curriculum in the areas of professional development, computer and software applications, health and fitness, artful living, personal development, real estate, children’s programming, and apprenticeship-related training and skilled trades.

Owens Community College President Christa Adams Announces Retirement Plans

Posted on December 9th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Dr. Christa Adams, the fourth President in the storied history of Owens Community College, has announced her retirement effective Jan. 1 at the conclusion of the current Fall Semester.

With the support of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Adams announced her intentions in an e-mail letter to all Owens employees, and the Board of Trustees accepted her retirement plans at their December meeting. Dr. Adams said in her e-mail that Owens’ faculty, staff and students have made her Owens years the capstone of her career, and she hopes her next professional adventure will contain even a fraction of the rewards she has experienced at Owens.

“Dr. Christa Adams has touched the lives of thousands of students with her leadership and visionary approach to higher education,” said John C. Moore, Board of Trustees Chair of Owens Community College. “I have known Dr. Adams since 2001, when Owens Community College conducted a national search to choose the right candidate to lead our growing College into the 21st Century. She has opened the doors of learning to thousands and has ensured that we are providing the highest quality education to our students. Her leadership has made a difference in many lives and we are grateful to her for all she has done.”

An avid supporter of community colleges and the community college mission, Dr. Adams is dedicated to creating educational opportunities for students of all ages, from all walks of life. She began her presidency at Owens Community College on July 26, 2001.

Since that time, she has worked tirelessly to reach out and engage faculty and staff, as well as community and education partners, for the common purpose of educating students and strengthening the surrounding Northwest Ohio region. Under Dr. Adams’ leadership, enrollment has increased from 17,000 students in 2001 to more than 23,000 during the current 2009 fall term; academic programs both in the classroom and online have expanded in a wide range of high demand fields to meet business and industry needs; a shared leadership model has been established among the campus community; and the Owens Foundation was incorporated and the College’s Alumni Association was advanced.

Additionally, the College has acquired millions of dollars in public and private grants to enhance educational opportunities for students and Dr. Adams’ advocacy at the state and federal levels has helped to ensure ongoing funding support for the academic institution. Two years ago, Owens marked a monumental point in the College’s history as an Owens Learning Center opened at The Source in downtown Toledo. The overall mission and goal of the new Owens Learning Center is to provide Lucas County residents with access to higher education and career training.

Capital improvements projects during Dr. Adams’ tenure have included a new Center for Fine and Performing Arts, a relocated Findlay-area Campus and a new Center for Emergency Preparedness, which is the only state-of-the-art complex of its kind in the Midwest. In addition, the former Penta Career Center is currently under renovation and the College is expanding its educational opportunities to Arrowhead Park in Maumee for the upcoming spring term.

Also under Dr. Adams’ leadership, a new Success Scholarship Program initiative was unveiled with the help and support of the Owens Foundation. Founded in 2008, the program is designed to assists students in financial need, who receive only partial state and federal aid, attend college and bridges the gap between the grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education. This year, 247 graduates in financial need from Whitmer High School, Findlay High School and other high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district are receiving a free college education on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, thanks to the Owens Foundation’s Success Program.

Dr. Adams’ board-level membership includes the Greater Toledo Urban League, the United Way of Greater Toledo, the Toledo Chamber of Commerce, the Findlay Chamber of Commerce, Toledo Symphony Orchestra and the Toledo Cultural Arts Center. Dedicated to providing quality education to all students, Dr. Adams is a board member of Think College Now, a Northwest Ohio college access program, and she served on the School Reform Committee of the Toledo Public Schools. Her interest in technology and economic development led her to serve as a partner of the University of Toledo Science and Research Technology Corridor. Dr. Adams is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Regional Growth Partnership and the Wood County Economic Development Commission.

At the state level, Dr. Adams has served on the Ohio Board of Regents’ Higher Education Funding Commission. She previously served as deputy to Governor Bob Taft’s Technology Action Board and as an Ohio team member of the National Governor’s Association Pathways to Advancement Policy Academy. Dr. Adams is a Consultant/Evaluator for North Central Accreditation’s Higher Learning Commission, and presently serves on its Accreditation Review Council.

In addition, Dr. Adams is a member of the American Association of Women in Community Colleges and a supporter of the National Institute for Leadership Development, which trains and mentors community college women leaders. She is a recipient of the Girl Scouts’ Woman of Distinction Award, the ATHENA Award, the YWCA Milestones for Women in Service Award for education, the Ann Aldrich Women’s History Month Award and the Spirit of Wood County Award. As a member of the NAACP, Dr. Adams developed Port Huron’s Minority Affairs Advisory Council and received the minority community’s Gold Star Award for service to minorities.

Prior to assuming the Presidency at Owens Community College, Dr. Adams served a five-year term as President of St. Clair County Community College in Port Huron, Mich.

Dr. Adams earned her doctorate in community college administration/ vocational education from Colorado State University. A resident of Perrysburg, she holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in English from the University of Northern Colorado.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Announce National Search for New President

Posted on December 9th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Board of Trustees announced at its regular meeting that a national search for the new President of Owens Community College will occur in 2010. In conjunction with the announcement, the Board of Trustees has enlisted the services of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) to assist in conducting the presidential search.

A national search is being conducted to replace Dr. Christa Adams, who has announced she will retire Jan. 1, after having served as President of Owens Community College since July 2001. The presidential search process is being led by Owens Board of Trustees Chair John C. Moore, who will serve as Chair of the yet-to-be-named Presidential Search Ad Hoc Committee. Individuals already appointed by Board of Trustees Chair Moore to the committee are Board of Trustees Vice Chair Diana H. Talmage and Board of Trustees Immediate Past Chair Dr. Ronald A. McMaster.

“The selection of a President is one of the most important roles of a Board of Trustees and I look forward to beginning the process of assembling a team of individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences from both the campus community and the surrounding communities to provide their diverse views and perspectives in selecting the next leader of Owens Community College,” said Board of Trustees Chair Moore.

Founded in 1972, the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) is a nonprofit educational organization of Board of Trustees of community, technical and junior colleges. ACCT’s purpose is to strengthen the capacity of community, technical and junior colleges to realize their missions through effective Board of Trustee leadership, education and advocacy at local, state and national levels.

Owens Black Student Union ‘Red Carpet Fashion Show’ Raises Over $750 in Support of Diabetes Awareness

Posted on December 2nd, 2009

“Red Carpet Fashion Show” models (L to R) Bridget Hanson, Charvette Benefield and Keyaira Smith pose for a photo prior to the start of the evening’s festivities.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Hundreds of area residents recently experienced the latest in glamour, fashion, dance and music as Owens Community College’s Black Student Union presented its second annual “Red Carpet Fashion Show”. The evening festivities resulted in the student group raising over $750 in support of diabetes awareness and research for the American Diabetes Association.

“Owens Community College’s Black Student Union is proud to work with the American Diabetes Association and help raise money for diabetes awareness and research,” said Shawanda Johnson, Owens Black Student Union Advisor.

Johnson added, “Our goal for the annual event is to help in the fight against this terrible disease. I want to thank all those individuals who made this year’s ‘Red Carpet Fashion Show’ a huge success, and I encourage people to continue to promote and support diabetes awareness.”

Attendees had the opportunity to view an array of clothing during the “Red Carpet Fashion Show” to several themed fashion scenes such as winter/fall, children, hip hop, swim wear and red alert in recognition of diabetes awareness. Featured “Red Carpet Fashion Show” models included students attending Owens, Toledo Public Schools and Winterfield Venture Charter Academy as well as community members.

Entertainment was provided by the Owens Dance Express Team and the nationally-recognized performance groups House of Adonis of Toledo and All-Stars of Boston, among many others. Nationally-known comedian Darrell Banks served as the event host.

L.B. Davis models red alert fashion in recognition of diabetes awareness during the fashion show at Owens.

Additionally, Toledo’s Glass City Church of Christ Rev. Robert G. Birt Jr. shared insight into his own personal accounts with diabetes.

Owens Community College Foundation Appoints Board of Directors to Leadership Positions

Posted on November 24th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Foundation Board of Directors has elected Arthur H. Smith of Maumee, retired Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary for Libbey Inc., to serve as the Chairman for the Owens Foundation for a second one-year term.

In addition, the Board of Directors re-elected Thomas Pounds of Toledo, President and Publisher for the “Toledo Free Press”, as Vice Chairman, and Diana H. (Dee) Talmage of Toledo, retired Educator, as Secretary, to leadership positions for one-year terms. Daniel Kimmet of Toledo, retired Chief Operating Officer for Dillin Corp., was re-elected to serve a third year as the Foundation’s Treasurer.

Four Directors were re-elected to their positions during the annual meeting and will serve three-year terms. Re-elected Directors include Charles Bills of Findlay, President/CEO of Ohio Logistics & Affiliates; James Carter of Grand Rapids, Wood County Commissioner; James Geers of Findlay, retired Vice President of Global Human Resources for Cooper Tire & Rubber Company; and Rasesh Shah of Holland, President, Rail Group, The Andersons Inc. Also elected for a three-year term was David Whikehart of Findlay, Director of Climate Change and Carbon Management for Marathon Petroleum Company.

In addition, during their Nov. 11, 2009 board meeting, the Board of Directors elected Jeannie Hylant of Toledo to a three-year term. Hylant is Executive Vice President of Hylant Group.

“The Owens Community College Foundation has assembled an outstanding group of leaders who value the importance of a quality college education and the many benefits of lifelong learning,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of Fund Development and Foundation President. “Each officer brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and dedication to their position and will play a significant role in the Foundation enhancing programs and services for current and future students.”

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $1.9 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 25 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Community College and Rotary Club of Perrysburg Announce New Endowed Scholarship Program

Posted on November 23rd, 2009

Officials from Owens Community College and the Rotary Club of Perrysburg pose for a photo following the announcement of the new endowed scholarship program.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College and the Rotary Club of Perrysburg are entering into a new partnership that will afford Penta Career Center graduates the opportunity to pursue higher education aspirations as the two organizations announce the establishment of a new endowed scholarship program. The Rotary Club of Perrysburg and its Foundation recently presented the Owens Community College Foundation with a $20,000 donation to fund the endowment.

“Owens Community College is honored to partner with the Rotary Club of Perrysburg and extend this new scholarship opportunity to future Penta Career Center graduates,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of Fund Development and Foundation President. “This endowed scholarship program will open the door for many area residents to pursue their career aspirations at Owens for years to come. The Owens Community College Foundation appreciates the Rotary Club of Perrysburg’s commitment to furthering excellence in higher education.”

The Owens Community College Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $1.9 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 25 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Community College School of Nursing Submits Application for NLNAC Accreditation Candidacy Status

Posted on November 11th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s School of Nursing has taken its first step toward National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) accreditation for the registered nursing program by submitting the application for candidacy status, which is part of the multi-step process to regain accreditation.

Candidacy is the first step toward NLNAC accreditation and is granted after the NLNAC reviews a program’s faculty, curriculum and resources. Once the review determines that the program has the potential to achieve NLNAC accreditation, the academic institution is granted candidacy status. Subsequent steps following the award of candidacy status include a written self-study and an NLNAC site visit to both the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

According to Owens Vice Provost Dr. Renay Scott, the NLNAC has notified Owens Community College that it has received the candidacy form application and we have been invited to prepare a full candidacy presentation, which involves the School of Nursing showing how it meets the NLNAC’s faculty, curriculum and resource standards.

“Owens Community College values the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission’s accreditation and its hallmark of excellence and is committed to regaining and retaining full accreditation status,” stated Vice Provost Scott. “The Registered Nursing Program and its faculty and staff are leaders both within higher education and the health care community and are working diligently on the NLNAC multi-step process with the ultimate goal of becoming accredited as an NLNAC Nursing Program.”

Led by Owens’ nursing faculty and staff, intensive work is currently taking place within the School of Nursing for the NLNAC accreditation process to measure all aspects of the registered nursing program against the 2008 NLN Standards and Criteria. An inclusive team approach is in place, with each group taking responsibility for one of the six NLN Standards. Every member of the School of Nursing is involved in critical self-review and analysis of the School’s mission and administrative capacity, faculty and staff, students, curriculum, resources and outcomes. Additionally, members of the School of Nursing are planning to attend the upcoming self-study forums presented by the NLNAC.

Established in 1969 as the first associate degree program of its kind in Northwest Ohio, the School of Nursing’s registered nursing program has a rich and storied history of providing highly qualified health care professionals who are working in acute care agencies, physician offices, long-term care agencies and outpatient ambulatory areas throughout the region and beyond. Over 460 students are enrolled in the registered nursing program during the current fall term.

Owens’ registered nursing program requires 72 credit hours of coursework. Following graduation, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure examination and upon passage are licensed to practice nursing in the state of Ohio. Owens’ longstanding commitment to academic excellence is highlighted by 94 percent of the College’s registered nursing students passing the NCLEX-RN exam in September 2009, which was six percent and seven percent higher than those who passed statewide and nationwide respectively.

The College’s registered nursing program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing since 1971 and received its initial accreditation from the National League for Nursing in 1974.

Owens Community College Announces Establishment of the School of Nursing and Names New Dean

Posted on November 10th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College and the Department of Nursing are investing in the future of higher education by announcing the establishment of a new School of Nursing. The Department of Nursing, formerly under the School of Health Sciences, will now be organized into a separate School within the College to provide greater support and expanded educational resources for the various academic programs.

Additionally, Dawn Wetmore of Perrysburg has been named to serve as the new Dean of the School of Nursing. Her responsibilities will include providing administrative leadership for all instructional programs and activities within the newly created School of Nursing on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

Her new position will also entail providing guidance in the development and implementation of new academic curricula, directing the on-going evaluation of the School’s courses and providing assessment of student learning, as well as overseeing budget planning and management, articulation and transfer agreements, and the development of community partnerships. Among the academic areas comprising the new School are the registered nursing, licensed practical nursing, state tested nurse assistant and the licensed practical nursing to registered nursing programs.

Academic programs within the School of Nursing have a rich and storied history in providing highly qualified health care professionals who are serving as registered nurses, practical nurses and nurse assistants in health care settings throughout the region and beyond. Owens’ longstanding commitment to academic excellence is highlighted by 94 percent of Owens registered nursing students passing the NCLEX-RN exam in September 2009, which was six percent and seven percent higher than those who passed statewide and nationwide respectively.

“The new Owens Community College School of Nursing will provide greater support for the various nursing programs that the academic institution offers,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Owens Vice Provost. “We retain our commitment to quality for our students and their education in the demanding and growing health care field. This structure is not new within higher education and allows us to focus on the College’s efforts to grow resources and opportunities for our students.”

Vice Provost Scott added, “Owens Community College is honored to have Dawn Wetmore serving as the founding Dean of the School of Nursing and confident that her leadership will further the College’s longstanding tradition and commitment to providing the highest level of academic excellence through enhanced educational opportunities and resources for current and future students.”

Since December 2007, Wetmore has served as the Dean of Health Sciences and Director of Nursing at Monroe County Community College. While at Monroe County Community College, she is responsible for overseeing the academic institution’s programs in registered nursing, licensed practical nursing, registered nursing from licensed practical nursing/licensed vocational nurse (online), respiratory therapy, gerontology, phlebotomy and electrocardiograpy, as well as the nurse aid training course and all credit courses in health and physical education.

Prior to her position at Monroe County Community College, Wetmore held several administrative positions at Owens from 1996-2007, which includes most recently serving as the College’s Dean of Academic Services where she assisted with all aspects related to the coordination and development of instructional programs and support services for the various academic Schools.

From 1999-2004, Wetmore was the Chair of the College’s Nursing Department. During her tenure as Chair, she played an instrumental role in the College securing its state-of-the-art human patient simulator technology and incorporating the new experiential learning resource into the program’s academic curriculum. Additionally, Wetmore’s leadership was responsible for increasing the NCLEX-RN exam student-passing rate to a 95 percentile and introducing the licensed practical nursing certificate program on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses and the international nursing certificate program on the Toledo-area Campus. She also held the position of Assistant Chair for Owens’ Department of Nursing from 1996-99. Prior to joining Owens, Wetmore served as the Director of Instructional Services at the former Medical College of Ohio School of Nursing (now the University of Toledo Medical Center).

Wetmore’s past and current professional involvement includes membership with the Michigan Council of Nursing Education Administrators, the Ohio Nurses Association, the Northwest Ohio Nurses Association and the National League for Nursing. She previously served as President of the Medical College of Ohio (now the University of Toledo Medical Center) Nursing Alumni Association, the Northwest Ohio Nurses Association and the Toledo Area Oncology Nurses Society.

Her accomplishments include receiving the Leadership Award from Zeta Theta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau international nursing honor society and serving a five-year gubernatorial appointment to the Ohio Board of Nursing from 1996-2000.

Wetmore earned a master’s degree in nursing from the former Medical College of Ohio (now the University of Toledo Medical Center) and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Mary Manse College. Her educational background also includes receiving a diploma in nursing from the Providence School of Nursing in Mobile, Ala.

Owens Expands Renewable Energy Program with Installation of 120-Foot Wind Turbine, Oct. 28-30

Posted on October 28th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is once again expanding its educational opportunities within the area of renewable energy by announcing the installation of the academic institution’s second wind turbine, Wednesday-Friday, Oct. 28-30. Similar to the College’s recently-installed 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine, the new 120-foot EW50 wind turbine will be used for experiential learning purposes within Workforce and Community Services’ new Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certificate programs.

On Wednesday (Oct. 28), Pilot Construction Services LLC based in Kent will begin and complete the process of assembling components of the College’s new wind turbine from 1-5 p.m. The new EW50 wind turbine is a fully integrated, utility-connected wind generator designed specifically for large commercial businesses, farms, communities, schools, municipal facilities, electric cooperatives and remote locations.

The installation process will continue on Thursday (Oct. 29) as the new wind turbine will be erected into its proper vertical position adjacent to the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building on Toledo-area Campus from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Pilot Construction Services will conclude the installation work on Friday (Oct. 30) from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. by conducting preliminary operational safety tests on the new wind energy technology.

In addition to its instructional utilization for the College’s new Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certification programs, the 50-kilowatt wind turbine generator will be used to convert wind power into electricity for regular operational purposes within the Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building.

Unemployed and dislocated workers, who currently are participating in the initial Wind Turbine Installation and Maintenance Technician Program through the academic institution’s new $1.9 million federal stimulus grant initiative, are intended to serve as the first students to receive instruction on the new wind turbine. Additionally, unemployed and dislocated workers attending the College’s Wind Turbine Installation Training Program in Kenton as part of a partnership between Owens and the Hardin County One Stop are expected to utilize the technology for educational purposes in the near future.

Individuals attending the Wind Turbine Installation and Maintenance Technician Program through the federal stimulus grant initiative are receiving instruction in the installation, operation and maintenance of wind turbines for futures careers as a wind turbine installer and wind technology maintenance technician. Course content also highlights electrical principles, fluid power fundamentals, environmental safety, OSHA safety and power distribution systems, as well as wind measurement, estimating power output, the economics of wind power, wind technology and interconnection of utilities, among other academic areas.

Students participating Owens’ Wind Turbine Installation Training Program in Hardin County are receiving education within the areas of installation, operation and maintenance of wind turbines for eventual careers as wind turbine installers. Academic coursework includes training in wind measurement, system terminology and connection to a power grid, among other areas. Installation practices related to installation safety, basics of electricity, interconnection with the utility, siting, battery metering, and load management and energy efficiency are also highlighted.

Owens’ Workforce and Community Services will be offering its initial academic course offering within the Wind Turbine Installation Certificate Program to area residents in February 2010.

For more information about the new programs, call (567) 661 7357 or 1 800 GO OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Photographer, Author Dave LaBelle to Speak at Owens Community College, Oct. 21

Posted on October 20th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in gaining insight into today’s ever-changing world of photography are invited to a free lecture featuring noted photojournalist and author Dave LaBelle at Owens Community College on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

Presented by the Owens Student Photography Club, LaBelle’s lecture presentation is titled “Timing, Light, Composition and Life” and will occur at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Room 131 on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

LaBelle began his photojournalism career at the Ventura County (California) “Star-Free Press” as a weekend sports shooter and lab man while still in high school. During his 35-year career, he has worked for 20 newspapers and magazines in nine states, including the “Anchorage Times”, “San Bernardino Sun-Telegram”, “The Chanute Tribune”, “Ogden Standard-Examiner”, “The Sacramento Bee” and the “Pittsburgh Post-Gazette”, where he was assistant managing editor for photography.

LaBelle’s love for feature photography and his ability to hunt out feature ideas has helped him win numerous awards throughout his career. At 19, he was the National Press Photographers Association Region 10 Photographer of the Year, an honor he repeated the next two years. He was runner-up to W. Eugene Smith for the first Nikon World Understanding Award in 1974 and runner-up for the NPPA National Photographer of the Year Award in 1979.

Additionally, the Photographic Society of America Inc. honored LaBelle with the International Understanding Through Photography Award in 2002. The award’s judges said, “LaBelle’s background and accomplishments in photography have contributed to greater understanding among people everywhere.”

In addition to his career as a professional photojournalist, LaBelle joined the faculty at Western Kentucky University in 1986 and taught photojournalism for more than a decade. In 1989 while at Western, LaBelle published the first edition of “The Great Picture Hunt”. He is also the author of the book “Lessons in Death and Life”, which was published in 1992 and deals with the ethics of photographing grief. In 1991, the NPPA honored LaBelle with the Robin F. Garland Award for photojournalism education.

LaBelle now resides in his hometown of Oak View, Calif., where he is living with his family, writing books and teaching classes in photography.

For additional information about the free lecture, call (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens to Offer Wind Technology Program in Hardin County through New Hardin County One Stop Partnership, Oct. 19 – Nov. 5

Posted on October 16th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services and Hardin County One Stop and the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance are entering into a new partnership, which will expand educational opportunities within renewable energy to area residents, by announcing the first-ever Wind Turbine Installation Training Program classes in the Hardin County region, Oct. 19 – Nov. 5.

As part of the academic curriculum expansion, Owens and the Hardin County One Stop will offer short-cycle training opportunities for unemployed and dislocated workers through the College’s Wind Turbine Installation Training Program. The initial class will occur Monday through Thursday from 2-6 p.m. at the Hardin County Business and Chamber Alliance, which is located at 225 S. Detroit St. in Kenton.

“Owens Community College Workforce and Community Services is proud to partner with the Hardin County One Stop and the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance and respond to the short-cycle workforce training needs of the region,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “Clean wind energy is emerging as a viable option from an energy and efficiency standpoint for both commercial business and residential home consumption. Hardin County is on the verge of becoming a leader within the wind energy industry and Owens is poised to assist them in their alternative energy endeavors and provide the region with a competitive edge in today’s global economy.”

Individuals attending Owens’ training program will receive instruction within the areas of installation, operation and maintenance of wind turbines for future careers as wind turbine installers. Course content includes training in wind measurement, system terminology and connection to a power grid, among other areas. Installation practices related to installation safety, basics of electricity, interconnection with the utility, siting, battery metering, and load management and energy efficiency are also highlighted.

Additionally, the hands-on applications will include the design and installation of the College’s new 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine, which is located on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. Owens’ recently-installed wind turbine is a fully integrated, utility-connected wind generator designed specifically for residential and small commercial businesses. In addition to its instructional utilization, the 2.4-kilowatt wind turbine generator is used to convert wind power into electricity for regular operational purposes within the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building.

Owens Community College Dedicates New $3.2 Million Emergency Preparedness Training and Operations Center

Posted on October 14th, 2009

Over 300 individuals attended the dedication ceremony in the Training and Operations Center’s 62-foot high bay complex.

Owens’ new 28,790 square-foot Training and Operations Center was built at the west entrance to the Center for Emergency Preparedness.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Thousands of first responders will now have the opportunity to heighten their emergency preparedness skills in the latest experiential training and educational resource center around as Owens Community College’s Center for Emergency Preparedness formally opens the doors to a new $3.2 million Training and Operations Center.

The new facility will serve as the “hub” for the Center for Emergency Preparedness and provide first responders with expanded opportunities for real-world, scenario-based training highlighted by the only indoor emergency services virtual training system in the country.

“Owens Community College’s new Training and Operations Center is a welcome addition to the Center for Emergency Preparedness and fulfills a need for a rather expansive facility to conduct year-round training within a climate controlled setting,” said Michael Cornell, Owens Director of the Center for Emergency Preparedness. “Providing first responders with the highest level in realistic training is essential to preparing them for actual emergency situations. This new Training and Operations Center reinforces the College’s commitment to meeting the emergency preparedness education and training needs throughout the region and beyond by offering experiential learning resources unlike any other facility in the country.”

Richard N. Rucker, Executive Director of Emergency Medical Services for the Ohio Department of Public Safety, served as the keynote speaker during the dedication ceremony.

Owens representatives joined community leaders, first responders and elected officials in recently celebrating the new state-of-the-art facility’s unveiling with an official ribbon cutting ceremony, which highlighted the emergency services virtual training system, and an open house.

Owens’ new 28,790 square-foot Training and Operations Center was built at the west entrance to the Center for Emergency Preparedness and is intended to provide first responders with expanded opportunities for real-world, scenario training highlighted by the only indoor emergency services virtual training system in the country. The virtual training system features a one-of-a-kind video projection scenario program, which is displayed onto separate glass walls located within four separate pods. First responders will have the opportunity to conduct a variety of structure burn scenarios within each 221 square-foot pod to include residential, commercial, processing and electrical fires, using actual water in a controlled virtual fire and smoke-filled environment. The system is designed to replicate a city scene with various buildings ranging from a single- to four-story complex. Actual virtual training scenarios include a bedroom fire, storage facility fire, washer/dryer fire and a living room fire, among many others. In addition to virtual fire training opportunities, the Center for Emergency Preparedness in the midst of developing several other scenarios to include a virtual school house active shooter training exercise.

A total of seven rooms comprise the emergency services structure, as well as a pitched roof ventilation training system area for individuals to conduct exercises using various types of equipment and techniques. Additionally, the structure will feature a Firearms Training System (FATS), which is an interactive simulated system designed to provide training in the handling and use of small and supporting firearms, as well as confronting hostile assailants. Two stairwells, a Bose sound system, infrared training monitoring cameras and a fire sprinkler training system are also housed within the four-story emergency services structure. The exterior of the indoor building can be used for high angle rescue, ground and aerial ladder drills, apparatus placement, high rise hose evolution, and rappel entry and exit training. The entire 62-foot high bay complex, which also features 10 overhead garage doors, can simulate heavy smoke conditions produced through five smoke generators.

Additional Training and Operations Center features include six classrooms, eight offices, two reception areas and locker room facilities. The facility also houses Owens Center for Emergency Preparedness staff and will serve as the Northwest Ohio regional training site for the Ohio Fire Academy.

Designed by the firm Sitzenstock Associates Inc. of Maumee, the exterior of the building features an insulated finishing system around the single-story portion of the facility, while metal encircles the Training and Operations Center’s high bay complex. Owens’ signature color red is present atop the building’s metal roof. Van Tassel Construction Co. of Ottawa Lake, Mich. served as the general contractor, while Gem Industrial Inc. of Walbridge, Brint Electric Inc. of Toledo and Accel Fire Systems Inc. of Sylvania oversaw the plumbing/mechanical, electrical and fire protection contracts, respectively. The indoor emergency services virtual training system was created by Baker Media Productions Inc. in Findlay.

The new Training and Operations Center features the only four-story emergency services virtual training system in the country.

In 2007, Owens marked a milestone in the academic institution’s history by opening a new $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness. The new Center for Emergency Preparedness fulfills a need for a rather expansive complex within the region that can provide “real-world” training in a safe and controlled environment. Potential training scenarios that can be conducted within the new facility include those related to natural and manmade disasters involving hazardous materials, confined spaces, riots, entrapments and weapons of mass destruction, among others. Currently, there is no higher education facility for multi agencies to conduct concurrent emergency response training of this magnitude in the Midwest.

Owens’ 110-acre Center for Emergency Preparedness features full-size, state-of-the-art training props/simulators, including a fire behavior lab (flashover trainer), a five-story computer controlled fire training tower, tank truck live fire simulator, live propane BLEVE simulator, urban search and rescue building collapse simulator, confined space rescue simulator, car fire simulator, extrication pad, water/dive/ice rescue training pond, rail tanker car live fire simulator, emergency vehicle operations and driving course, a Boeing 727 aircraft, a search and rescue trainer, rail cars and roof ventilating system. The facility also includes a mock city replicating a community infrastructure such as a gas station with a convenience store, a bank, an emergency room and several single family homes that feature an evidence house and a meth lab.

Owens’ virtual training system is a state-of-the-art video projection program, which enables first responders to conduct a variety of structure burn scenarios, such as residential, commercial, processing or electrical equipment fires, using actual water within a controlled virtual fire and smoke environment.

Owens Alumni Association Golf Outing Raises Over $28,820 in Support of Scholarships

Posted on October 8th, 2009

Members of the Bowers Asphalt and Paving Inc. team (L to R) Todd Sattler, David Neely, Jim Claus and Tom Sattler pose for a photo after winning the College’s annual Alumni Golf Classic.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – One hundred four area residents recently enjoyed a day of golf and entertainment in support of alumni scholarship programs as Owens Community College’s Alumni Association held its seventh annual Golf Classic. The 26-team event netted over $28,820 to benefit scholarship endeavors.

Since its inception, the Owens event has netted over $211,430 to support Owens students pursuing a college education and their career aspirations.

Organized by the Owens Alumni Association’s steering committee, the golf outing was held at the historic Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. The event featured 18-holes of golf, lunch, grazing dinner and an awards program. The Golf Classic event sponsors were the Hylant Group, Travelers Insurance and MT Business Technologies. In addition, Metzgers Printing + Mailing served as the print sponsor and the “Toledo Free Press” was the ad sponsor.

The championship team of the four-person scramble was sponsored by Bowers Asphalt and Paving Inc. Team members included Todd Sattler, David Neely, Jim Claus and Tom Sattler.

Owens Delivers Backpacks and Supplies to Northwest Ohio Elementary School Children

Posted on September 22nd, 2009

Navarre Elementary School teacher Amy Schulte (left) assists two students in filling their backpacks with school supplies.

Owens’ (left) Kaye Koevenig assists a Glenwood Elementary School student in trying on one of the donated backpacks.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association in collaboration with Books-A-Million and three Great Lakes Credit Union branches recently brightened many children’s lives through a unique community service endeavor titled “Backpack to the Future”. Over 370 backpacks and more than 8,200 school supply items collected throughout the summer months were donated to 21 area elementary schools during the month of September, including Northview Primary School in Findlay, the Community Learning Centers of Wood County and Toledo Public Schools’ Navarre Elementary School, Walbridge Elementary School and Keyser Elementary School.

“It’s a great feeling to know that there are people out there who care about children,” said Teri Sherwood, Principal at Walbridge Elementary School. “I know families are feeling the economic downturn very heavily in the immediate area. It would be extremely hard for Walbridge Elementary School to replenish supplies throughout the school year without the donations from Owens Community College’s backpack and school supply program. We are grateful for the help and support.”

“I want to once again thank Owens Community College for their continued support of Northview Primary School,” said Rosemary Lugabihl-Rooker, Principal of Northview Primary School. “Receiving these supplies is a huge help to our children’s families and is even more crucial during these difficult economic times. Providing students with the necessary resources to succeed in school is extremely important and these supplies will certainly go a long way in helping them with the learning process.”

Over 370 backpacks and more than 8,200 school supply items were collected by Owens’ Alumni Association throughout the summer months.

Owens Alumni Association and Northview Primary School representatives pose for a photo following the backpack and school supply presentation.

In addition to the donated supplies, the program collected over $1,380 from community members. The charitable donations go toward the purchase of even more school supplies.

“I like learning everything,” said an excited Arthur, an elementary student at Walbridge Elementary School, during the donation ceremony.

Riley, a smiling elementary student at Rossford’s Glenwood Elementary School added, “I like art, painting with my hands and using model magic.”

Owens’ Laura Moore talks to a group of students at Keyser Elementary School during the presentation ceremony.

Owens Community College Installs First-Ever Wind Turbine on Toledo-area Campus

Posted on September 18th, 2009

Owens’ new state-of-the-art Skystream 3.7 wind turbine is located next to the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building on the Toledo-area Campus.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is expanding its educational opportunities within the area of renewable energy by announcing the installation of the academic institution’s first-ever wind turbine. The College’s new state-of-the-art technology will be used for experiential learning purposes within Workforce and Community Services’ new Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certificate programs.

Owens’ wind turbine was recently installed and winched into its proper vertical position, adjacent to the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building on Toledo-area Campus, by Wind Turbines of Ohio LLC based in Alliance. The 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine is a fully integrated, utility-connected wind generator designed specifically for residential and small commercial businesses.

Representatives with Wind Turbines of Ohio LLC winch the wind turbine into its proper vertical position during the recent installation process.

“Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services is committed to providing area residents state-of-the-art education and training opportunities within the growing field of alternative and renewable energy,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “The wind turbine will play an important role in the College’s new Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certificate programs by affording students to the chance to receive hands-on, experiential learning at the highest level of curricular innovation. Such academic programming and resources will enable Owens students to have a competitive edge in today’s ever-changing global economy.”

Bankey added, “Clean wind energy is emerging as a viable option from an energy and efficiency standpoint for both commercial business and residential home consumption. Owens is poised to serve as an educational leader in providing individuals with enhanced knowledge about the many benefits of “green living” and will continue to explore and promote the development of new leading-edge alternative energy technologies for the Northwest Ohio region.”

In addition to its instructional utilization for the College’s new Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certification programs, the 2.4-kilowatt wind turbine generator will be used to convert wind power into electricity for regular operational purposes within the Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building.

Eighteen unemployed and dislocated workers will begin their educational journey toward new employment opportunities by participating in the initial Wind Turbine Installation and Maintenance Technician Program, Sept. 28 – Dec. 4. The first short-cycle training class, which combines the two new certificate programs, is part of the academic institution’s new $1.9 million federal stimulus grant program.

Wind Turbines of Ohio LLC owner Greg Courtney works on the new 33-foot wind turbine prior to its installation at Owens.

Individuals attending the 172-hour training program will receive instruction in the installation, operation and maintenance of wind turbines for futures careers as a wind turbine installer and wind technology maintenance technician. The short-cycle training will include both classroom lecture and hands-on applications with the new 33-foot wind turbine to include the actual design and installation of the renewable energy educational component. Course content also highlights electrical principles, fluid power fundamentals, environmental safety, OSHA safety and power distribution systems, as well as wind measurement, estimating power output, the economics of wind power, wind technology and interconnection of utilities, among other academic areas.

Owens’ Workforce and Community Services will be offering its initial academic courses within the Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certificate programs to area residents in the near future. The College is also planning to install a 130-foot wind turbine to be used for experiential learning and wind power generation purposes.

For more information about the new programs, call (567) 661 7357 or 1 800 GO OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Community College Offers Fall ACT Preparation Class, Sept. 28 – Oct. 19

Posted on September 15th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents preparing to take the national ACT test are encouraged to bring a pencil, paper and a calculator to Owens Community College as the academic institution offers a program titled “Building Confidence with ACT Prep” in September and October. The class is coordinated through the College’s Workforce and Community Services.

The ACT preparation class will occur Monday evenings, Sept. 28 – Oct. 19, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the College’s Workforce and Community Services building on Tracy Road in Northwood.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again offer a unique educational program which will help students in their preparation to take the upcoming national ACT test,” said Rhonda Hogrefe, Owens Account Representative for Workforce and Community Services. “This class will provide students with a variety of test-taking skills that will be beneficial as they study for the ACT and take the actual test.”

During each of the four sessions, students will be tutored in all five sections of the ACT test. The actual ACT is comprised of one test in each of the following areas: English, math, reading, science reasoning and writing. In addition to being tutored in these areas through one-on-one teaching, students will learn traditional testing strategies such as how to take a timed test and how to find the elusive answer to a difficult question.

In addition to offering the ACT preparation class, Owens serves as a host site for the national ACT test. The next testing date after the ACT preparation class is in October. Prior registration through the ACT organization is required.

Limited seating is available and early registration is recommended. For more information, or to register for the class, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Expands Renewable Energy Program With Installation of New Wind Turbine, Sept. 11

Posted on September 10th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is expanding its educational opportunities within the area of renewable energy by announcing the installation of the academic institution’s first-ever wind turbine on Friday, Sept. 11. The College’s new state-of-the-art technology will be used for experiential learning purposes within Workforce and Community Services’ new Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certificate programs.

Starting at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, Wind Turbines of Ohio LLC based in Alliance will begin the process of installing the College’s new wind turbine. The 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine is a fully integrated, utility-connected wind generator designed specifically for residential and small commercial businesses.

Owens’ new wind turbine will be winched into its proper vertical position adjacent to the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building on Toledo-area Campus around 11 a.m.

Owens’ Workforce and Community Services will be offering its initial academic course offerings within the Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certificate programs to area residents in the near future. The College is also planning to install a 130-foot wind turbine to be used for experiential learning and wind power generation purposes.

For more information about the new programs, call (567) 661 7357 or 1 800 GO OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Community College Offers Free ‘QuickStart to College’ Program

Posted on September 9th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to explore career options and gain advice on making the first steps toward a college education as Owens Community College presents a free “QuickStart to College” program, Sept. 28 – Dec. 6.

The free 10-week program, which is designed for first generation college attendees, low wage workers, underemployed and undereducated adults in mind, will take place on various days and times on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as at the College’s Learning Center at The Source, which located on Monroe Street in downtown Toledo. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the Findlay-area Campus’ location is on Bright Road in Findlay. Additionally, “QuickStart to College” classes will occur at Rogers High School, which is located on McTigue Drive in Toledo.

Owens’ free “QuickStart to College” comprehensive program features an array of educational initiatives, including academic preparation, coaching and embracing the expectations of college-level studies. Additionally, students will participate in activities designed to promote enhanced learning and develop necessary study and life skills for college success. Individuals will also learn and obtain an in-depth understanding of the language, culture and resources of Owens through the program, as well as receive information specific to the financial aid process and academic placement testing. Free math, reading and writing tutorials are also offered to program participants.

In addition, each attendee will be provided an Owens Student Success mentor to assist them throughout the “QuickStart to College” program. Each student will also receive three college credit hours toward an Owens education upon course completion.

Funding for Owens’ academic initiative is being made possible through a three-year $522,200 grant from the Lumina Foundation for Education, which is an Indianapolis-based private foundation dedicated to expanding access to and success in education beyond high school. Owens is one of only three academic institutions statewide to receive funding in 2008 for the program. The other two colleges are Rhodes State College in Lima and Zane State College in Zanesville.

In order to be eligible for the free “QuickStart to Success” program, individuals must have obtained their high school Diploma or GED. Enrollment is limited and area residents must register prior to Sept. 21. Mandatory orientations detailing the program will take on Sept. 14 and 17 (Toledo-area Campus), Sept. 21 and 24 (Learning Center at The Source) and Oct. 1 (Findlay-area Campus). For more information about the new “QuickStart to College” program, call (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777, or (567) 429-3509 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3509.

Record 23,606 Students Choose Owens to Pursue Educational Opportunities and Career Aspirations

Posted on September 8th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College continues to provide Northwest Ohio residents with greater access to higher education at an affordable cost with a record-breaking 23,606 students choosing to attend the academic institution for Fall Semester classes on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

Since becoming a comprehensive community college in 1994, Owens has more than doubled its Fall Semester student enrollment by an astounding 130 percent. The College enrolled 10,255 students for Fall Semester classes in 1994.

The combined Fall Semester enrollment of 23,606 students on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses surpasses the previous record of 21,296 students enrolled during Fall Semester 2008. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus has 20,037 students attending classes during the Fall Semester, while on the Findlay-area Campus 3,569 students are enrolled for the fall term. On both campuses, Fall Semester enrollment has increased 10.8 percent from last fall.

“Our mission at Owens Community College is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to pursue a college education,” said Dr. Bill Ivoska, Owens Vice President of Student Services. “Owens Community College is committed to helping students achieve their fullest potential by eliminating any potential barriers that may exist and providing them with the necessary tools and resources to obtain a competitive edge in today’s global economy. A college education can open many doors to endless possibilities and Owens Community College is proud to play a small part in helping Northwest Ohio residents realize their career aspirations.”

For Scott Blair of Carey, the decision to “take the leap of faith” several years ago and pursue a college education after more than 25 years in manufacturing was an easy one.

“I really want to help others as a registered nurse and pursuing a college education is allowing me to achieve that goal,” said the 47-year-old registered nursing major.

Blair, who carries a 3.29 grade point average at Owens and works in coronary care and intensive care as a practical licensed nurse at Findlay’s Blanchard Valley Hospital, added, “Owens has given me the opportunity to grow as a person, both personally and professionally. It is truly an uplifting feeling to treat a patient and help in their rehabilitation process. My professors have prepared me to succeed in my new career field and I owe them a debt of gratitude for making my dream a reality.”

Additionally, Blair’s educational success has now become a family affair as his 24-year-old daughter, Arielle Thiel of Carey, has joined him in obtaining a college education from Owens as she pursues her own associate’s degree in registered nursing.

“The opportunity to take classes with my daughter has been an amazing experience,” stated Blair, who has aspirations of working in health care at an area hospital after graduation. “Owens is making a difference in both of our lives.”

According to Ivoska, Owens continues to make a concerted effort to expand upon the many educational opportunities of its students through the advancement of innovative programs, courses, teaching methods and academic resources.

Owens is once again expanding educational opportunities for area residents by recently announcing the creation of new short-cycle training and job placement opportunities for unemployed and dislocated workers within high growth, high demand occupations that include “green collar,” health care and construction-based industries through a partnership with The Source, Lucas County’s One-Stop Employment Center, in downtown Toledo. The new initiative is part of a $1.9 million federal stimulus grant at Owens.

The College also is continuing to expand its extremely popular eOwens distance learning education by continuously introducing new academic courses online. To date, Owens offers more than 220 e-Learning courses in such academic areas as accounting, art, business, English, psychology and speech, among other course selections. For Fall Semester 7,168 students are pursuing e-Learning courses – up from 5,976 last fall (19.9 percent increase).

In addition to the many e-Learning opportunities, Owens continues to increase its academic and support services by making available an array of higher education choices for high school students through innovative partnerships with post secondary schools, through the Weekend College and at The Source, Lucas County’s One-Stop Employment Center, in downtown Toledo. The College’s enrollment at The Source has increased by 151 students with 739 area residents pursuing higher education in downtown Toledo during the current Fall Semester compared to 588 last fall term (25.6 percent increase).

The College’s ethnicity/race student enrollment also continues to increase. For Fall Semester, 3,063 African-American students are pursuing an Owens education compared to 2,764 last year (10.8 percent increase). Additionally, Hispanic enrollment has a recorded a 9.7 percent increase with 1,043 students attending classes compared to 950 during fall term 2008.

Two hundred forty-seven graduates in 2009 from Whitmer High School, Findlay High School and all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district in financial need are receiving a free college education to Owens as part of the College Foundation’s expanded Success Program on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The Success Program is designed to assist students, who receive only partial state and federal financial aid, attend college and bridges the gap between the grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education.

Continuing to expand educational opportunities for students in the Hancock County area, Owens unveiled a new $4.2 million Findlay-area Campus Community Education and Wellness Center in 2007 to complement the $17.7 million Findlay-area Campus, which opened in 2005. To accommodate the record number of students, the College, within the last six years, also opened an $11 million Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus. In 2007, Owens unveiled a new $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness. The Center is the only state-of-the-art facility of this magnitude within the Midwest.

In the coming year, Owens will broaden access to higher education opportunities for police, fire and emergency services personnel, as well as the military, by formally opening a new $3.2 million Emergency Preparedness Operations Building at the Center for Emergency Preparedness in October. The College is continuing the renovation process at the former Penta Career Center and will open newly named and refurbished Founders and Heritage halls for students in the near future. Owens will also be relocating its Workforce and Community Services division to Arrowhead Park in Maumee for the upcoming spring term.