News Releases

I-75/CR 99 Interchange Improvements Slated Near Findlay-area Campus

Posted on April 17th, 2024

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Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) officials informed a capacity crowd of more than 130 people at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus about fulfilling a 7-year vision to improve the I-75/County Road 99 interchange.

The 3-year project will begin this spring and culminate in 2026, when the diverging diamond interchange will be completed to better accommodate existing and future traffic along Hancock County’s busy northern corridor, ODOT officials said.

The project will include road enhancements along County Road 99 extending from County Road 140 to the west and the Lowe’s Distribution Center to the east; Lowe’s is about one-half mile from the Owens campus.

The interchange is located 3 miles west of the Owens campus.

“When it’s completed, you will clearly see the benefit it has on the traveling public,” Michael Butler, ODOT’s project engineer, told the audience of business owners, government officials and other interested parties, including representatives from Blanchard Valley Health System.

ODOT officials organized the public meeting with Owens Findlay-area Campus Dean Brad Wood, who was in attendance along with a handful of other Owens employees. Butler and ODOT’s Rob White spent time reviewing the project schedule, how a diverging diamond interchange (DDI) works and the interchange’s benefits, which include increased capacity, efficiency and safety.

Chuck Bills, the former Owens Board of Trustee member who is president and CEO of Findlay’s Tall Timbers Ohio Logistics, was among the audience members to ask questions.

Tim Mayle, the executive director for the Center to Advance Manufacturing, a unique partnership created by Owens, the University of Findlay and Bowling Green State University, also addressed the audience as a member of ODOT’s Transportation Review Advisory Council (TRAC). The council approves the development and construction of major ODOT projects such as I-75/County Road 99 exchange.

He said to look at the project through the lens of enhancing safety, providing more traffic capacity and increasing the investment for businesses after completion.

“This is important to the county,” Mayle said.

For more information, visit ODOT’s project site: https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/projects/projects/102375

Owens Expands Healthcare Offerings in Findlay with New CPR Class

Posted on April 15th, 2024

Owens Community College is expanding its healthcare offerings on the Findlay-area Campus with a new American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers CPR class.

The first 4-hour class will be offered Thursday, April 25 in the Education Center at 3200 Bright Road, Findlay. Classes will be offered on an ongoing basis.

The class covers adult, child and infant CPR and is designed for healthcare professionals, daycare providers and others requiring CPR training. The hands-on class includes training with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Students who successfully complete the class will earn a 2-year certification.

The Owens Community College Foundation funded the purchase of $3,300 in the new equipment for the CPR classroom on the Findlay-area Campus.

The CPR class costs $85 and includes the book. To register, visit www.owens.edu/workandplay and click on the CPR link, or call (567) 661-7357.

Owens Inaugural Alumni Hall of Fame Class Featured at Creative Expressions Arts Fundraising Event

Posted on April 4th, 2024

The community is invited to join Owens Community College alumni, faculty and staff for a special evening celebrating 20 years of the arts as well as the college’s inaugural Alumni Hall of Fame class at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 20 at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

Creative Expressions, the annual arts fundraiser, supports the endowed Artistic Award Funds for students pursuing a career in the Fine and Performing Arts. The 2023-2024 academic year marks 20 years since the Center for Fine and Performing Arts opened in August 2003 for the 2003-2004 academic year.

Sponsored by the Owens Community College Foundation, the Alumni Hall of Fame awards will be presented to outstanding Owens alumni who have excelled personally and professionally, making a continued and significant difference in their community on a local, state, national or international level. The Alumni Hall of Fame class includes:

David W. Seeger, Ed.D., a 1980 marketing and sales graduate who was the president and CEO of Great Lakes Credit Union, Inc. for 27 years. He is an adjunct faculty member at Owens.
Melanie L. Dunn, a 2011 commercial art graduate who works at Madhouse, one of the leading advertising agencies in Toledo. She also owns her own freelance design agency, Cuttlefish Graphics.
Glenn E. Houck Jr., a 2004 radiography graduate who is the director of radiology clinical operations at Michigan Health. He is a U.S. Army veteran.
Lesa M. Swimmer, a 1996 associate of arts graduate who started on campus as a student worker and tutor and 30 years later remains at Owens as a highly-respected instructor teaching math, biology, chemistry and physical sciences.
Sarah R. Heldmann, a 2014 occupational therapy assistant graduate who works at Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities while serving in local, state and national leadership positions related to her work as an occupational therapy assistant.

Complete bios of the inaugural Alumni Hall of Fame class are available at owens.edu/alumni/awards.

Beginning at 5:30 p.m., the semi-formal event includes dinner and artwork auction as well as the Alumni Hall of Fame presentation before concluding with the student theatre production of “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812.”

Renowned artist Ray King of Philadelphia, who created and installed the “Owens Rings” sculpture hanging in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda for the August 2003 opening, is scheduled to attend.

Tickets, priced at $150 per couple and $100 for an individual ticket, include a commemorative gift, an individualized, handcrafted art piece of glass from the Toledo Museum of Art inspired by the “Owens Rings.”

Tickets are available online at www.owens.edu/fpa/giving. Seating is limited.

Owens Names Page New Workforce and Economic Development Leader

Posted on April 2nd, 2024

Charlene Page

An executive leader with nearly two decades of experience in economic and business development, Charlene Page has been hired as Executive Director, Workforce and Economic Development at Owens Community College, pending board approval. Page will serve on the Executive Leadership Team and report to Owens President Dr. Dione D. Somerville.

Page joined Owens in November 2023 as the Senior Advisor to the President for Workforce and Economic Development Partnerships. In this role she worked closely with the Workforce department as well as community partners to increase engagement opportunities.

“Charlene has a proven track record with nearly two decades of experience in economic development,” Somerville said. “She believes in collaboration and the power of partnerships to improve the lives of members in our community through education and career opportunities. Charlene’s experiences as a strategic leader make her a valuable addition to the Executive Leadership Team, Owens and the region as a whole.”

Prior to her role at Owens, Page held the position of Regional Talent Manager for JobsOhio and the Regional Growth Partnership, where she developed employee recruitment and training plans to support regional economic development projects.

She also worked as an International Business Development Representative for Oakland County, Michigan specializing in assisting multinational companies grow their operations in the U.S. She brings extensive experience in sales and organizational development to her role here at Owens.

Page earned a bachelor’s degree in Management and Organizational Development from Spring Arbor University and holds certifications as an Economic Development Finance Professional and Certified Global Business Professional. She also currently serves on the Owens Community College Foundation Board.

Owens-Tiffin To Sign New DragonNext Agreement Benefiting Students

Posted on April 2nd, 2024

Owens Community College and Tiffin University are expanding their ongoing relationship through the DragonNext expedited degree completion program.

When: 2 p.m. Thursday, April 4

Where: Owens Community College Student Services Center, College Hall

30335 Oregon Rd.

Perrysburg, OH 43551

How it Works

All applicants with a minimum of 12 transferrable credits are able to apply for DragonNext admission. Participants must be accepted by both Owens and Tiffin. Participants save both time and money through the credit transferal process. With DragonNext, admitted students are guaranteed the option to transfer up to 60 credits from an associate degree toward the completion of a four-year degree at TU. On-campus participants are eligible for merit scholarships of $16,000 annually, and online students may receive a tuition discount of $150 per credit hour. Relevant students may also be eligible for transfer scholarships upon completion of an associate degree.

Owens Community College Trustee Members Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on March 27th, 2024

Mary Beth Hammond

Dr. Srinivas K. Hejeebu

Owens Community College has elected Mary Beth Hammond of Findlay as chair and Srinivas K. Hejeebu, M.D. of Sylvania as vice chair of the college’s Board of Trustees. They will serve one-year terms following a vote by the board.

Appointed to the board in 2013, Hammond has been a key leader for the board, having previously led the board in 2020, 2021 and 2022. She also served as vice chair in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2023.

Hammond is retired following more than 30 years of working in the banking industry, where she specialized as a private banker. She supports multiple non-profit organizations and is a past president of the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce.

Also appointed to the Owens board in 2013, Dr. Hejeebu is a professor of medicine at the University of Toledo and an internist at the Medical Center.

The Owens board is comprised of nine community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock Counties who are appointed by the Governor of Ohio for six-year terms. With the October 2023 appoints of Travis Reiff of Bowling Green and Mike Bridenbaker of Monclova, Owens has a full board for the first time in 2021.

The board also includes Matthew McAlear of Perrysburg, Sherina Ohanian of Perrysburg, Richard Rowe Jr. of Findlay, Rita Russell of Toledo and Diana (Dee) Talmage of Ottawa Hills.

For more information about the Owens Community College board of trustees, visit https://www.owens.edu/trustees/.

Owens Community College School of Business Job Fair

Posted on March 21st, 2024

The School of Business is hosting a job fair. Students will have the opportunity to connect with local employers for full-time jobs or to change careers to align with their major. Students who are undecided or looking to gain professional experience through part-time work or an internship are also welcome to attend.

When: 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 27

Where: Heritage Hall 123

310 2^nd Street

Perrysburg, OH 43551

For more information, visit owens.edu/businessjobfair

Owens Express Baseball Team Hosts Doubleheader at Fifth Third Field April 19

Posted on March 18th, 2024

The Owens Express Baseball team will celebrate 4-1-9 day in the heart of downtown Toledo at Fifth Third Field. The team, led by head coach John Parisho, will return to the home of the Toledo Mud Hens for a doubleheader against the Community Christian College Lions on Friday, April 19 beginning at 4:30 p.m.

This will be the third year the Express have played at Fifth Third Field. “The team looks forward to this doubleheader all season,” said Parisho. The Express are undefeated while playing in downtown Toledo. “We are ready to keep that winning streak alive before making another postseason run,” added Parisho.

Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for kids ages 6-17 as well as Senior/Military tickets. Owens Community College and Community Christian College will be able to unlock free tickets using the promo code “express”. Students may present their student ID at the box office as well.

Purchase tickets HERE.

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

Owens School of Nursing and Health Professions Expo Day

Posted on March 18th, 2024

When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Friday, March 22

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

Where: Admissions Office (College Hall 138)

490 D Street

Perrysburg, OH 43551

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

Learn more about health programs offered at Owens
Tour modern lab facilities
Meet faculty and staff
Learn more about the Admissions process and selective health review

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

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

Visit owens.edu/visit to learn more.

Owens Admissions Rep Among Gun Violence Survivors Discussion Panelists

Posted on March 1st, 2024

Janice Hall

A woman is shot dead by her current or former partner every 16 hours, according to data provided by the Brady national gun violence prevention organization.

“I got that dreadful call on my sister’s birthday,” said Owens Community College Admissions Representative Janice Hall, referring to November 7, 2021, when her son’s partner, Natasha Carlisle, was part of a double homicide in Toledo.

Carlisle and her best friend, Laura Luckey, were killed by Donte Gilmer, who was Luckey’s former partner. Gilmer was convicted and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

A lifelong Toledo resident, Hall will take part in a gun violence panel discussion at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 6 in College Hall room 100. Sponsored by the BIG Read, the event is free and open to the public.

Hall described gun violence in America as “a club that no one wants to belong to, but it’s starting to get a large membership.”

She said losing Carlisle created multiple gaps for her family.

Her son, Jermaine Byrd, and Carlisle had a daughter, Tashayla, who celebrated her 18^th birthday a week before her mother’s death. Hall also noted Byrd and Carlisle had been working on getting back together, which is why Hall said she still calls Carlisle her “daughter-in-law”.

“For my son, his half-brother was killed just a year before. It’s all of this inner-city living,” Hall said. “I hate for it to happen to anyone. If it’s not me, it’s somebody I know that it’s happened to. It’s such a shame. It’s destroying lives – just like drugs.”

The panel also includes:

Malcolm Cunningham, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, City of Toledo
Brysen Davis, Violence Interrupter with Save Our Community
Judy Harbaugh, local leader for Moms Demand Action
Sherin Henley, a gun violence survivor
Rebecca Facey, Toledo City Prosecutor
Mary Kruger, a gun violence survivor

Owens Community College Hosts College & Career Preview Night

Posted on February 28th, 2024

High school students and their parents, as well as prospective students of all ages, are invited to meet with representatives from colleges, universities, industries and the military at the area’s premier college night event from 6:30 – 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 6 in the Student Health and Activities Center (7315 Championship Dr., Perrysburg, OH 43551).

The U.S. Department of Education has made sweeping changes to the FAFSA starting with the 2024-25. Student Financial Services Director Marcos Gomez will host a presentation highlighting the changes and will walk through the new format to help answer questions from students and parents.

The evening will feature presentations on additional financial aid and in-demand jobs such as healthcare.

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

Owens Community College Partners with UToledo, TPS for Educational Opportunities Benefiting City of Toledo Residents

Posted on February 27th, 2024

Leaders from Owens Community College, the University of Toledo and Toledo Public Schools signed a letter of intent Tuesday opening doors for educational opportunities for City of Toledo residents at Scott Park.

In front of a large crowd at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Owens announced the results of the year-long feasibility study assessing the need for a physical Owens presence in the City of Toledo.

Conducted by Trellis Strategies, the study summarized these findings:

A need for a physical presence in the City of Toledo
Increased partnerships are necessary to prepare tomorrow’s workforce
Large education attainment gaps exist in the City of Toledo

“Our goal is to increase access to high-quality educational opportunities in the City of Toledo that benefit the northwest Ohio region,” Owens President Dr. Dione D. Somerville said. “With partners at Scott Park, we can build a foundation to address the needs for today’s students and workforce development.”

Bryan Ashton of Trellis Strategies presented the feasibility study research summary, which identified nearly 190,000 people aged 25 or older in key parts of the City of Toledo with only a high school degree or some college. Nearly 75 percent of the City of Toledo’s residents who are high school graduates did not enroll in college at graduation. Today that translates to more than half of the City of Toledo’s residents age 25-plus, or 55 percent, being college-ready.

“The University of Toledo is proud to strengthen our long-standing partnerships with Owens Community College and Toledo Public Schools in our shared commitment to ensuring all members of our community have an opportunity to achieve their educational and career goals,” said UToledo President Gregory Postel. “By working together, we can help close the educational attainment gap in Toledo to celebrate both individual successes of earning a college degree and also the community benefit of strengthening the workforce and economic prosperity of our region.”

“This new initiative with Owens Community College and the University of Toledo allows TPS to continue providing new and exciting educational opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Romules Durant, CEO/Superintendent of Toledo Public Schools. “We are excited that the future of the Scott Park Campus includes not only TPS students but adult learners who are ready to expand their education as they plan for their future.”

With the completed letter of intent signing, the educational leaders will now collaborate on what programming will be offered at Scott Park as well as a start date. No timeline has been established.

Kristi Clouse, JobsOhio, Senior Managing Director, Talent and Rosalyn Clemens, City of Toledo, Housing and Community Development Director also participated in the announcement. JobsOhio shared with Trellis Strategies its research related to workforce development for the advanced manufacturing sector in northwest Ohio. The City of Toledo provided financial support for the study.

Trellis Strategies is a non-profit, Texas-based higher education research firm with expertise in program evaluation and workforce outcomes, and identifying transportation barriers and enrollment deserts.

“We are thankful for the support and partnerships we have with the University of Toledo, Toledo Public Schools, the City of Toledo, JobsOhio and Trellis Strategies,” Somerville said. “We look forward to fulfilling our mission and providing quality higher education access at Scott Park.”

Details about the feasibility study and the Scott Park location will be added to https://www.owens.edu/feasibility/.

Owens Community College, Partners to Announce Feasibility Study Results

Posted on February 26th, 2024

Owens Community College and its partners will announce the results of a year-long feasibility study assessing the need for a physical Owens presence in the City of Toledo. As the lead partner in the initiative, Owens will share the data-informed approach about the study’s conclusions and next steps regarding any potential location and programming.

Date: Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Time: 10 a.m.

Location: Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Owens Community College, Perrysburg, OH (GPS address: 7270 Biniker Drive, Perrysburg)

Scheduled Speakers

Dr. Dione D. Somerville, Owens Community College President
Kristi Clouse, JobsOhio, Senior Managing Director, Talent
Rosalyn Clemens, City of Toledo, Housing and Community Development Director
Bryan Ashton, Trellis Strategies, Managing Director
Dr. Gregory Postel, University of Toledo, President
Dr. Romules Durant, Toledo Public Schools, CEO/Superintendent

Presentation/Interviews

The presentation is expected to last about 60 minutes. Interviews will be deferred until after the presentation.

Inspiring Stories Highlight National TRIO Day Celebration

Posted on February 26th, 2024

TRIO Day

The first time Stanley Knox attended Owens Community College, TRIO programs did not exist.

“It’s great that there are so many extra resources and how the staff are so welcoming,” the social media influencer certificate major said after participating in a panel with TRIO students from other colleges as Owens hosted the sixth annual National TRIO Day Celebration at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, TRIO programs are educational opportunity outreach programs designed to motivate and support students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The National TRIO Day Celebration was a collaborative event of the 11 northwest Ohio TRIO programs from Owens Community College, Bowling Green State University, Lourdes University, Northwest State Community College and the University of Toledo.

These programs are the catalyst for educational post-secondary attainment for first-generation and low-income individuals in the area.

Knox, a first-generation college student who already earned a music business certificate from Owens 10 years ago, told the TRIO audience he was “sharing his heart.” In answering an audience question, he said it was in the past year, just turning 40 a week ago, that he began to master time management.

“I come from YouTube University. I know I’m a hustler and I can’t sit still,” he said. “(To get an education) you have to make up your mind you’re going to stop and do the work.”

Knox is part of the TRIO Student Support Services program.

More than 100 students and TRIO leaders attended the celebration, which began with the keynote presentation from Dr. Jessica R. McClain, Visiting Research Scientist at Indiana University. She spoke about resiliency and thriving by sharing her life story, which was inspired by the untimely passing of her father, Rev. Steve R. McClain.

Owens President Dr. Dione D. Somerville also addressed the TRIO students, along with Northwest State President Dr. Todd Hernandez and State Rep. Michele Grim, State Rep. Josh Williams and Austin Serna, congressional assistant for U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur.

Williams shared his story of transitioning from a homeless high school dropout who considered suicide to attorney, college professor and elected official.

The closing speaker was a TRIO alum, BGSU graduate Myles Johnson, who started his entrepreneurship journey by selling cookies in the Atlanta airport at age 13. He talked about college challenges as well as building relationships on his way to returning to his teen-age home of Lansing, Michigan and winning the Ingham County Commissioner election at age 25.

Between speakers, the students participated in a service project, packing more than 100 bags of donated health and hygiene items for each college to donate to its respective food pantry or student resource office for student use.

“Today has been very positive and inspiring,” said Lisa Robinson after helping pack the bags. She’s a 56-year-old Army veteran from Toledo who’s part of the Owens Veterans Upward Bound TRIO program. “I heard about resilience. I really liked how the first speaker talked about education.”

The event was led by Brandon Gaddy, Owens TRIO programs director, and a committee of representatives from the TRIO programs at the other colleges and universities. It was the third time Owens hosted the National TRIO Day celebration.

Owens Community College Hosts 6th Annual Northwest Ohio TRIO Day Celebration

Posted on February 20th, 2024

About National TRIO Day

The National TRIO Day Celebration is a collaborative event of the Northwest Ohio TRIO programs including Owens Community College, Bowling Green State University, Lourdes University, Northwest State Community College and the University of Toledo.

When

Saturday, February 24, 2024

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

9:15 a.m.—Doors Open
10 a.m. – Opening/Welcome
10:30 a.m. – Keynote Speaker (Sponsored by: TRIO Educational Opportunity Center)
- Dr. Jessica R. McClain, Visiting Research Scientist Center for Research on Learning and Technology, Wright School of Education at Indiana University. Dr. McClain’s research interest center around creating equitable approaches to teaching and learning in STEM education.
11:15 a.m. – Service Project
12:15 p.m. — Lunch
12:45 p.m. – Breakout Session
1:15 p.m. – Closing Speaker / Evaluations (Sponsored by: TRIO Educational Opportunity Center)
- Myles Johnson, Ingham County Commissioner, Lansing, MI; Bowling Green State University TRIO Alum
2 p.m. – Departures

Where

Center for Fine and Performing Arts

7270 Biniker Drive, Perrysburg

Theme

Resilience: Thriving through Transition

Attending

Approximately 100-150 people

Leaders from the participating colleges and universities

TRIO students

Elected officials

Ohio Arts Council Awards Grant for Owens Community College Artist in Residence Program

Posted on February 12th, 2024

The exterior of the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at Owens Community College will get a new artistic addition thanks to a grant from the Ohio Arts Council in the amount of $4,137.

Annette Fink, an artist who has lived in the Toledo area for 35 years, will lead the project as the Artist in Residence in the summer of 2024. She will create a weather-resistant sculptural mural out of ceramics as well as teach classes to students, faculty, staff and the community.

A permanent sculpture expressing the artistic culture of the Center for Fine and Performing Arts will be installed.

The grant requires a one-to-one match. The Ohio Arts Council funds will be used to support the artist for the supplies and materials for ceramic classes for the artist as well as a stipend. It will also help cover the artist’s labor and time designing and building the mural.

Since 2021, the Walter E. Terhune Gallery in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts has welcomed a local artist to be the “Artist in Residence.” Fink will be the fourth Artist in Residence since the program’s inception.

To learn more about the Artist in Residence program, visit www.owens.edu/terhune.

Owens Community College Receives Mental Health Grant

Posted on February 7th, 2024

Owens Community College has been awarded $164,782 by the Ohio Department of Higher Education for mental health support funding. The grant will be distributed over two years.

The funds will go to achieving four goals: promoting the training and development of master’s level counselors in training, providing professional development opportunities, promoting health and wellness as well as continued services such as walk-in appointments, individual and group counseling, mental health screenings, workshops, and programming related to a wide variety of personal growth and mental health issues.

“Our process was highly collaborative and very intentional with input from many departments,” said Vickie Heck, director of counseling services at Owens. “It’s significant to see this level of support from Governor DeWine’s office. It reinforces that we are part of a bigger community as a public college in Ohio that really understands and supports mental health.”

Owens Community College Counseling Services offers consultation, mental health assessment, crisis support, outreach and linkage to community resources. The services are available at no charge to all students enrolled in six or more credit hours.

Heck hopes the grant will elevate the support provided to the community at Owens. “This support allows us to continue to think broadly and creatively about how to best serve our students. We want to continue with Owens Community College’s directive that mental health be prioritized in such a way that everyone across campus feels sufficiently informed and empowered to talk about it,” said Heck.

To learn more about Counseling Services at Owens, visit owens.edu/counseling.

Passages Juried Art Show Opening Reception

Posted on January 31st, 2024

Local high school artists will have their work displayed and judged at Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda for the third annual “Passages” High School Juried Art Show. The opening reception and award ceremony will be from 6 – 8 p.m. Friday, February 2.

Students from 11 area schools including Bedford, Fremont Ross, Liberty Center, Otsego, Penta Career Center, Perrysburg, Pike-Delta-York, St. John’s, St. Ursula, Tiffin Columbian and Whitmer submitted artwork in the categories of animation/video, commercial art, fine art (2D & 3D) and photography.

In its three-year history, the art show has nearly doubled in size. “The first year, we had 100 art pieces submitted and five schools participating,” said Shelby Stoots, Manager of the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “For year 3, almost 200 art pieces were submitted and we now have 11 participating schools.”

The Visual Arts faculty at Owens will jury the exhibit and prizes will be awarded. The merit prize will be presented to an overall first, second and third-place winner. Each award can be used toward tuition at Owens Community College.

The art will be on display through Friday, March 29.

Girl Scouts of Western Ohio STEAM Day

Posted on January 29th, 2024

Saturday, February 3, 2024

Owens Community College, Findlay-area Campus

3200 Bright Road, Findlay

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

More than 150 area Girl Scouts (grades K-12), their leaders and caregivers will participate in STEAM Day, where they will take part in hands-on activities related to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM).

Girl Scouts will rotate through stations with Owens faculty, including:

Biology (dissecting cow eyes, seeing a virtual cadaver)
Mechanics (program robotic arms, play with hydraulics)
Nursing (use stethoscopes and blood pressure cuffs)
Welding (virtual welding)
Physical Therapy (strength and mobility exercises)

Schedule

10 a.m. – Registration/Welcome at the Community Education and Wellness Center
10:15 a.m. – The groups will begin rotating through stations in the Community Education and Wellness Center and Education Center. Rotations will occur every 25 minutes.
There is a 30-minute lunch break at 11:45 a.m.
1:45 p.m. – Wrap up

The day’s activities are designed to help Girl Scouts think both analytically and creatively. A majority of girls who attend events like this report being more confident in their science and math abilities after participating—an important impact on their future education and careers. (Women comprise about half of today’s workforce, but only 34% of the STEM workforce.)

The event is sponsored by Girl Scouts of Western Ohio and Marathon, in partnership with Owens Community College.

Media opportunities:

Video/photos of hands-on activities
Interviews with Girl Scouts, leaders, parents, staff

On-site contacts

Girl Scouts: Becky Sarantou, 419.356.9018

Owens Community College: Andy Woodard, 419.308.2065

We Are Girl Scouts 

Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them. To join us, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit gswo.org, or follow Girl Scouts of Western Ohio on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

About OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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

Kids Access to Dental Care Day

Posted on January 25th, 2024

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

Owens Community College’s goal is to increase the access to care in children to teach them healthy dental hygiene habits to prevent further decay and address any current decay present.

When: 8 – 11 a.m. Monday, January 29 and 1 – 3 p.m. Tuesday, January 30

Where: Health Technologies 209, Dental Hygiene Clinic

320 1^st Street

Perrysburg, OH 43551

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

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

Win Owens Scholarship Worth up to $500 by Attending January 4 Registration Event

Posted on January 2nd, 2024

Event: Owens Community College One Day Registration

When: Thursday, January 4 from 2-7 p.m.

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

30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg 43551

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

Scholarship Details: Owens Community College will offer 10 $500 last dollar scholarships to students who attend the event. Participants must attend the event and be registered students of Owens Community College in order to win.

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

Owens Express Name Men’s Soccer Coach

Posted on December 19th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For recruiting information, email nathan_baer@owens.edu

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

Posted on December 12th, 2023

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

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

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

This year’s Outstanding Graduates are:

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

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

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

Posted on December 8th, 2023

Event: Owens Community College One Day Registration

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

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

30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg 43551

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

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

About OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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

Posted on December 7th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Receives Commercial Truck Driver Student Aid Awards

Posted on December 5th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on November 16th, 2023

healthcare education center

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on November 14th, 2023

Media Advisory

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

Formal ceremony and ceremony groundbreaking

10 a.m. Thursday, November 16

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

Theme

The heart for future healthcare professionals

About the School of Nursing and Health Professions

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

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

The new center will house the following 10 departments:

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

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

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

Scope of Project

Website

www.owens.edu/healthcareeducationcenter

Owens One Day Registration Event

Posted on November 9th, 2023

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

When: 2 – 7 p.m. Monday, November 13

Where: Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus

30335 Oregon Rd.

Perrysburg, OH 43551

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

Men’s Soccer to Return to Owens Community College

Posted on November 1st, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

The head coach position will be posted this month.

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

Owens School of Nursing and Health Professions Expo Day

Posted on October 30th, 2023

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

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

Where: Admissions Office (College Hall 138)

490 D Street

Perrysburg, OH 43551

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on October 25th, 2023

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

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

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

Students must be financial aid eligible and an Ohio resident.

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

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

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

STEM Job Fair

Posted on October 23rd, 2023

When: 3 – 6 p.m. Thursday, October 26

Where: Heritage Hall Room 123

310 2^nd Street

Perrysburg, OH

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

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

For more information, email peter_kowal@owens.edu.

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

The College Tour Watch Party

Posted on October 18th, 2023

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

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

The students and dean featured in the episode are:

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

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

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

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

CDL Training Program Expands to Findlay-area Campus

Posted on October 5th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

The deadline to register is October 20.

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

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

Posted on October 2nd, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on September 28th, 2023

Phil Rudolph Jr. of Rudolph Libbe Group and the former chair of the Owens Community College Foundation putts during the 21st annual Owens Foundation Golf Classic. From left are playing partner Tim Mayle of the Center to Advance Manufacturing, Owens Community College President Dr. Dione D. Somerville, Owens Foundation President and Board of Trustees member Dee Talmage, and Greg Silloway of Waterford Bank.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kids Access to Dental Care Day

Posted on September 26th, 2023

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

Where: Health Technologies 209, Dental Hygiene Clinic

320 1^st Street

Perrysburg, OH 43551

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

Owens Community College Celebrates 40 Years Serving Findlay

Posted on September 22nd, 2023

Owens Community College Celebrates 40 Years Serving Findlay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on September 19th, 2023

Ed Moore, City of Toledo Public Utilities Director

Dr. Somerville, Professor Mary Kaczinski and Advising Director Yasmine Bachar

TMACOG President Sandy Spang, City of Toledo Public Utilities Director Ed Moore and Owens President Dione D. Somerville

Dr. Dione D. Somerville

Ed Moore, City of Toledo Public Utilities Director

Tom McGrain, water operator

Professor Mary Kaczinski, Dr. Dione D. Somerville and Advising Director Yasmine Bachar

TMACOG President Sandy Spang, City of Toledo Public Utilities Director Ed Moore and Owens President Dione D. Somerville

Owens, TMACOG and the City of Toledo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on September 8th, 2023

Dr. Dione D. Somerville

Bryan Ashton

Brandon Sehlhorst

Dr. Dione D. Somerville

Brandon Sehlhorst, Dr. Dione D. Somerville, Bryan Ashton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on August 29th, 2023

Brian Simmons, Kelle Pack, Breon Hicks, Marcus Whitmore, Zyan Belcher, Krista Kiessling, Dominic Bracey, Ty Fries

Brian Simmons, Dominic Bracey

Ty Fries, Breon Hicks, Krista Kiessling, Marcus Whitmore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

President Somerville Highlights College Plan, Presents Top Teaching Award

Posted on August 21st, 2023

Dr. Sara Burke receives Presidential Teaching Award

President Somerville Highlights College Plan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Nursing Program Graduates 9 from PN Certificate Program

Posted on August 17th, 2023

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College President’s State of the College Address

Posted on August 16th, 2023

What

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

Featured Guest Speaker

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

When

Findlay-area Campus

9-10 a.m.

Education Center 111

3200 Bright Road, Findlay

Toledo-area Campus

2-3 p.m.

Center for Fine and Performing Arts Theatre

7270 Biniker Drive, Perrysburg

Owens STEM school reorganizes, expands to benefit student success

Posted on August 15th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens One Day Registration Event

Posted on August 11th, 2023

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

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

Students can also register just for orientation if needed.

When: 2 – 8 p.m. Monday, August 14

Where: Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus

30335 Oregon Rd.

Perrysburg, OH 43551

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

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

Posted on August 8th, 2023

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

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

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

Other Perkins Grants included:

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

The College Tour Media Opportunity

Posted on July 31st, 2023

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

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

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

Time: 11 a.m.

Date: Thursday, August 3

Location: Owens Community College Outside College Hall and Administration Hall

RSVP: allison_hendricks2@owens.edu

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

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

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

Veterans Tour and Information Session

Posted on July 25th, 2023

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

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

When: 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 26

Where: Veterans Hall

363 Depot Rd.

Perrysburg, OH 43551

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

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

Owens Welding Cohort Graduation

Posted on July 20th, 2023

Owens Instructor Brent Myers (left) and Owens Director of Business and Program Development Robert Bass (right) flank welding graduates Marshawn Murphy, Adonis Kynard, Brett Fitzpatrick, Lauren Wood and Dylan Wood.

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Aspire Program Recognizes 46 Graduates

Posted on June 14th, 2023

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

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

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

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

Posted on June 8th, 2023

From left, OACC President/CEO Jack Hershey, Owens Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Dr. Blake Renner, Trustee Mary Beth Hammond, Toledo Fire and Rescue Chief Allison Armstrong ’04, Dr. Dione D. Somerville, Trustee Dee Talmage and Owens Chief Financial Officer Jeff Ganues

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College partners with UToledo for Paralegal Transfer Program

Posted on June 7th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Artist in Residence Opening Reception

Posted on June 5th, 2023

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

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

The exhibit will be open through Friday, August 4.

The College Tour to Share Owens Story on Multiple Streaming Services

Posted on May 31st, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit thecollegetour.com to learn more.

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

Posted on May 19th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About NJCAA Foundation

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

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

Posted on May 17th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on May 15th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Tickets are required to attend any of the ceremonies.

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

Owens Community College Offers Motorcycle Training Courses

Posted on May 3rd, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

The cost to participate is $50.

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

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

Summer Camps for Kids at Owens Community College

Posted on May 2nd, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

College Hosts BIG Read Author Stephanie Foo on April 27

Posted on April 25th, 2023

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

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

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

WHO: Author Stephanie Foo

WHAT: The Big Read Presents: Stephanie Foo

WHEN: Thursday, April 27

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

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

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

Owens Community College Reintroduces Women’s Soccer for 2023 Season

Posted on April 24th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Healthcare Students Focus on Interprofessional Education

Posted on April 20th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on April 4th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase tickets HERE

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

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

Posted on April 3rd, 2023

Dr. Sara Burke

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College STEM Job Fair

Posted on March 30th, 2023

When: 4 – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 6

Where: Heritage Hall Room 123

310 2^nd Street

Perrysburg, OH

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

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

For more information, email peter_kowal@owens.edu or visit www.owens.edu/STEM

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

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

Posted on March 22nd, 2023

Jen Hazel, Jane Berger, Roseanna Thornton

Charity Hensley, Jen Hazel, Jane Berger, Kathryn Bausman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Networking Fair and Symposium Showcases Arts Careers

Posted on March 7th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Hosts Area’s Largest College Night Events

Posted on February 27th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on February 22nd, 2023

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

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

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

Owens Community College Human Resources Dept. Hosts Career Expo

Posted on February 20th, 2023

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

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

All attendees will receive an Owens gift bag.

Event date: Wednesday, February 22

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

30335 Oregon Road, Perrysburg OH 43551

Time Schedule:

9 a.m.-6 p.m.

More info:

Call (567) 661-7292

Email employment@owens.edu

Job openings listing – jobs.owens.edu

Maumee Native Earns RN Degree, Becomes Third Generation Nurse

Posted on February 16th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Trustee Members Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 13th, 2023

Sherina Ohanian, Dr. Dione D. Somerville, Mary Beth Hammond

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on February 9th, 2023

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

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

The event features a campus tour.

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

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

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

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

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

Owens National Champion roots for brother playing in Super Bowl LVII

Posted on February 7th, 2023

Clemons and Cook

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens continues as training leader through GM Advanced Manufacturing Grant

Posted on February 2nd, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Names 4 Senior Leaders

Posted on January 18th, 2023

Front Row: Tasha Hussain Black, Dr. Dione D. Somerville and Kelle Pack
Back Row: Brad Wood and Dr. Blake Renner

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

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

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

Dr. Blake Renner

Vice President, Enrollment Management and Student Affairs

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

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

Tasha Hussain Black

Executive Director, Strategic Marketing and Communications

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

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

Brad Wood

Dean, Findlay Campus

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

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

Kelle Pack

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

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

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

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

2 Student Broadcast Programs Nominated for Intercollegiate Broadcast System Awards

Posted on January 11th, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College to Award 349 Associate Degrees at 42nd Fall Commencement ceremonies

Posted on December 8th, 2022

Owens Community College will award 349 associate degrees Friday, December 16 at the 42^nd Fall Commencement ceremonies at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg.

Of the graduating class, 101 will graduate with their nursing degrees and be pinned in the same ceremony. The nursing graduation and pinning ceremony previously were separate events. In combining the graduation and pinning, the occasion will mark the passing of the student nurse role to the practice role.

The nurse pinning is a time-honored nursing school tradition, dating back to 1860 by Florence Nightingale, who is considered the founder of modern nursing. The nurses will recite the Florence Nightingale pledge in the ceremony, which will be held at 3 p.m. and conclude the Commencement ceremonies.

A total of 50 students from the Findlay-area Campus will join the Toledo-area Campus graduates for the Commencement ceremonies scheduled at 9 a.m. for the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; and 12 p.m. for the School of Business, Hospitality Management and Public Safety, School of Liberal Arts and the Health Professions graduates from the School of Nursing and Health Professions.

The graduating class features 94 students graduating with honors (3.5 grade-point average and above) as well as outstanding academic program graduates. All will be recognized at the ceremony.

This year’s Outstanding Graduates are:

Gerald Bazer Outstanding Arts and Sciences Graduate: Mikaila Sweeney, Psychology Concentration, Toledo
Outstanding Graduate in Business Technology: Kassidy Scott, Business Technologies Transfer Pathway, Toledo
Outstanding Graduate in Criminal Justice: Hope Escalera, Criminal Justice Transfer Pathway, Toledo
Peggy Bensman Award: Krystle Posey, Registered Nurse Program, Maumee
Barbara Rood Student Choice Award: Macie Zeller, Registered Nurse Program, Toledo
Barbara Rood Student Choice Award: Phenique Lipkins, Registered Nurse Program, Toledo
Barbara Rood Student Choice Award: Caitlyn Fuller, Registered Nurse Program, Holland
Barbara Rood Student Choice Award: Aaron Lentz, Registered Nurse Program, Waynesfield

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

Nearly $180,000 in Ohio Safety Support to Secure Owens Campuses

Posted on December 1st, 2022

Safety and security funding provided by the State of Ohio will help Owens Community College secure buildings on both of its campus locations as an added benefit to students and staff.

Governor Mike DeWine allocated $5 million to 33 colleges and universities in Ohio, including $177,583 to Owens to update door security on all remaining buildings at the Findlay-area Campus and up to seven buildings on the Toledo-area Campus.

The buildings will be secured with card-reader systems managed by the Owens Department of Public Safety (DPS). In the event of a threat, officers will be able to immediately secure buildings from a centralized location.

“All colleges are looking to make their campuses safer and more secure,” said Steve Harrison, Owens Chief of Police and Director of DPS. “We’re grateful to Governor DeWine’s office for providing these funds that allow us to continue modernizing our campus locations. This is positive step for Owens Community College and colleges across the State of Ohio.”

The grant awards are part of the 2022 Campus Safety Grant Program, which was funded with support from the Ohio legislature in Senate Bill 310 of the 133rd General Assembly. The Ohio School Safety Center, which is a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, reviewed the campus safety grant applications in consultation with the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

To be eligible for grant funding, colleges and universities conducted a security and vulnerability assessment to identify areas in need of safety enhancements.

ServSafe Food Manager Training at Owens Community College

Posted on December 1st, 2022

Owens Community College continues to address local employment needs, now offering non-credit ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification training to support the restaurant industry. In two days of training at the Dana Center on the Toledo-area Campus, the course covers critical principles including personal hygiene, cross contamination, time and temperature, receiving and storage, food safety management systems, training hourly employees and more.

In Ohio, there are more than 20,000 eating and drinking locations which employ more than 427,000 people, nearly 10% of employment statewide. According to the Ohio Department of Health, each risk level III and risk level IV food service operation and retail food establishment is required to have at least one employee with supervisory and management responsibility and the authority to direct and control food preparation and service that has obtained the Ohio Manager Certification in food protection

The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is accredited by the American National Standards Institute – Conference for Food Protection. Each trainee will attend two days of training and take a certification exam at the end of the second day. A book and exam voucher are included in the course fee.

The two-day training sessions are available in December, February, April and June. To sign up for the training, visit www.owens.edu/workforce_cs/workandplay.php and click Culinary.

Owens Big Read Project Culminates First Phase with Bookshelf, Books Donations

Posted on November 17th, 2022

Cherry Street Mission

Cherry Street Mission and Owens Community College

The Owens Community College Big Read project concluded the first phase of its community engagement initiative Tuesday, November 15 when the final two revitalized Owens-red bookshelves and books were donated to Cherry Street Mission Ministries and Family House in downtown Toledo.

The Big Read committee collected eight bookshelves and more than 600 books from staff, faculty and students during the pandemic. Volunteers revitalized the bookshelves and painted them Owens red. Previous donations were made to Afterschool All-Stars, an after-school program at Reynolds Elementary School, Lucas County Ohio Means Jobs, the Zepf Center and La Posada Family Shelter.

“Cherry Street and Owens Community College have a long history of caring for the educational desire of people in partnership with one another. It is a joy to be able to expand that partnership from the current workforce development certificates that we offer, to the reading program that is now part of our collaboration,” Ann Ebbert, CEO/President of Cherry Street Mission Ministries, said.

The final donations were made in November to coincide with National Family Literacy Month.

“Receiving a bookshelf and multiple boxes of books for all ages has been a big boost for us at La Posada,” said Willi R. Meyer, Activities and Wellness Manager. “These kids can’t just run to a friend’s house down the street to play so they rely on these books to really explore their imagination and this donation is extremely appreciated.”

The Big Read committee, led by Owens English professor Jen Hazel and librarian Jane Berger, is seeking additional books and bookshelf donations of any kind with a goal of launching the second phase of the project in the Findlay and greater Hancock County community in March 2023 during National Reading Month. Donated books also will be used to restock bookshelves in Toledo.

“The community engagement part of our Big Read project is immeasurable,” Hazel said. “We know that reading is a key component of education and professional development. It’s humbling that we are able to share the gift of reading with so many in our community. And we want to do more in 2023 and the years beyond.”

More information about the Big Read project is available at www.owens.edu/humanities/read/.

$100,000 state grant to provide Owens with advanced manufacturing, robotics equipment

Posted on November 17th, 2022

The Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) has awarded Owens Community College more than $100,000 for high-tech equipment to benefit students in the advanced manufacturing and robotics programs on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

The state grant totals $101,012 and will be utilized to purchase three portable video-conference systems, a process control learning system and FANUC iRVision hardware and software.

Owens offers FANUC certification at the $10 million Dana Center for advanced manufacturing training on the Toledo-area Campus. Students in the Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnership also learn robotics as part of their apprenticeship on the Findlay-area Campus.

“The local industry will benefit from the state-of-the-art equipment provided by the Ohio Department of Higher Education grant,” said Dr. Daniel Kelley, Owens Dean in the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. “Equipment will support experiential learning and hands-on experience to best prepare students to meet the needs of Industry 4.0 and the highly-technical advanced manufacturing jobs available today and in the future.

“The degree and certificate programs we offer provide students with broad education and hands-on experience required by industry for the 21^st Century workplace,” he added.

Learn more about Owens Community College advanced manufacturing and robotics programs at www.owens.edu/stem.

Owens Recognized for Student Voter Engagement

Posted on November 16th, 2022

Owens Community College has been awarded the ALL IN Most Engaged Campus Designation for its work in 2022 to increase student voter turnout, joining a select group of less than 400 colleges and universities nationally and one of 19 in Ohio to receive the inaugural honor.

The Center for Campus and Community Connections spearheaded efforts to increase student voter registration and turnout, working with offices across the Toledo-area Campus and the local community.

“Owens Community College students wanted to have their voice heard in their local and state elections,” said Krista Kiessling, Director of the Center for Campus and Community Connections.

The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge is a nonpartisan, national initiative recognizing and supporting campuses as they work to increase nonpartisan democratic engagement and full student voter participation. Owens Community College previously received the Bronze Seal by the ALL IN Challenge for its student voting rate in the 2020 general election.

For National Voter Registration Day in September, the Center for Campus and Community Connections partnered with the League of Women Voters and Owens Student Ambassadors to set up tables around the Toledo-area Campus to provide students with an opportunity to sign up to vote.

Owens Supports Local Non-Profit

Posted on November 7th, 2022

In continuing to identify ways to serve the community as an indispensable partner, Owens Community College has supported local non-profit Sleep in Heavenly Peace – Oak Harbor. Sleep in Heavenly Peace is an organization that builds and delivers beds to children in need of a bed and a safe place to sleep.

The College sells surplus property including tables, chairs, shelves and more on govdeals.com. Recently, Sleep in Heavenly Peace bought furniture from the College’s former library. In addition, the College also donated shelving units to the non-profit. The furniture is now in the organization’s shop as it works to plan the next build day. “Our whole chapter is excited about this great deal and the huge asset it brings to our chapter,” said Jim Berlin, Jr., Sleep in Heavenly Peace Chapter President.

Public Invited to Veterans-themed Art Exhibit, Opening Reception

Posted on November 3rd, 2022

On Veterans Day eve, the public is invited to join us for the opening reception to celebrate the work of the Experiencing Veterans and Artists Collaborations’ printed artwork from stories from different war veterans.

When: 5 – 7 p.m. Thursday, November 10

Where: Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery

7270 Biniker Dr.

Perrysburg, OH

Description: Experiencing Veterans and Artists Collaborations (EVAC) is an art project that brings together veterans and artists. EVAC curators interviewed veterans about their experiences, and artists made an edition of prints based on their interpretation of those stories. The prints are exhibited with excerpts from the transcribed interviews.

EVAC works to bridge the often-precarious gap between military and civilian life.

This exhibit is a part of Owens Community College’s 2022-2023 BIG Read Program, the goal of which is to bring awareness of different perspectives through books and accompanying activities on campus and in our surrounding communities.

The exhibit is open until December 16.

More info: https://www.owens.edu/fpa/cfpa/evac/

UToledo, Owens Renew Rocket Express Admission Program

Posted on October 18th, 2022

The University of Toledo and Owens Community College renewed a partnership that creates a seamless pathway for students to earn a bachelor’s degree from UToledo after starting at Owens.

The admission pathway program, called Rocket Express, was first launched in 2017.

Owens President Dr. Dione D. Somerville and UToledo President Dr. Gregory Postel renewed the Rocket Express program during a signing ceremony Wednesday, October 19 in the Student Service Center in College Hall at Owens Community College. Owens Provost Dr. Denise Smith and UToledo Provost Dr. Risa Dickson also participated in the ceremony.

“We are pleased to continue our Rocket Express partnership with the University of Toledo. Our Rocket Express agreement provides a pathway to an additional opportunity in higher education so that our students reach their academic and career goals efficiently. The Rocket Express helps provide support for our students who intend to transfer while saving them time and money. We are grateful to the University of Toledo for partnering with Owens in a way that is meaningful to our students and our region,” Somerville said.

“The strong partnership between UToledo and Owens and our shared commitment to student success provide a great opportunity for individuals in our community to achieve their dream of earning a college degree with increased support from both institutions through our updated Rocket Express program,” Postel said.

A total of 1,600 Owens students are enrolled in the Rocket Express program for Fall 2022 to begin the 2022-23 academic year. Over the first five academic years of the partnership, from 2017-18 through 2021-22, Owens averaged 1,750 students enrolled annually in the Rocket Express partnership. During this time, more than 6,500 students who previously attended Owens then enrolled at UToledo.

Students begin their college journey at Owens and can join the updated Rocket Express program immediately by indicating they intend to transfer to UToledo. Rocket Express students benefit from access to academic advisors at both Owens and UToledo and receive ongoing communication from UToledo as they advance through their academic studies. Program participants also have opportunities to participate in student life activities at both Owens and UToledo, such as clubs, organizations and Express and Rocket athletics games.

As part of the program, students have access to UToledo’s degree audit system to keep track of how their Owens classes will apply to their future UToledo degree program, which is a helpful tool especially if they are considering changing their program of study.

Rocket Express students also do not pay the UToledo application fee when they are ready to transfer.

UToledo and Owens announced the updated Rocket Express admission pathway program during National Student Transfer Week that celebrates transfer students and the professionals who support them.

More information on Rocket Express is available on the Owens website at owens.edu/rocketexpress.

BGSU, University of Findlay and Owens Community College name executive director for Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics

Posted on October 13th, 2022

Bowling Green State University, the University of Findlay and Owens Community College have announced the appointment of an executive director for the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics. Tim Mayle, who currently serves as director of Findlay-Hancock County Economic Development, will assume the key leadership position in November, bringing more than 20 years of direct experience with economic development to the Center.

Mayle has been with Findlay-Hancock County Economic Development since 2011 and has led the division within the Findlay-Hancock County Alliance since 2016. In his new role, he will provide strategic direction for the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics, which will support the rapidly expanding workforce need for skilled professionals in the region and state.

“The Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics has incredible potential to shape our economy,” said Mayle. “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve our region and state through economic and workforce development in this new capacity. Ohio continues to see unprecedented investment in the advanced manufacturing and logistics sectors, and I am excited to leverage the strengths of three higher education institutions through this Center to support our economy at such a significant moment.”

“Tim’s impressive success as the Director of Economic Development for the Findlay-Hancock County Alliance bodes well for the future of this game-changing initiative,” said University of Findlay President Katherine Fell. “President Somerville, President Rogers, and I are committed to doing our part to prepare the workforce needed for long-term manufacturing and logistics success in northwest Ohio and we are delighted to welcome Tim to our team.”

Last fall, BGSU, the University of Findlay and Owens Community College announced an innovative partnership among the three institutions, representing a public, a private and a community college, to create the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics.

The Center will facilitate the growth and sustainability of jobs and company creation in the advanced manufacturing and logistics sectors, providing opportunities for companies large and small to access training, talent and research and development opportunities.

In September, Intel broke ground in Licking County, Ohio, after announcing plans for an initial investment of more than $20 billion in the construction of two new leading-edge chip factories to boost production to meet demand for advanced semiconductors. This week, Honda confirmed it has selected Ohio to lead its electric vehicle (EV) production and announced, along with LG Energy Solution, a joint venture battery plant with a combined investment of at least $4.2 billion.

“Higher education plays a critical role in supporting the vitality of our economy and the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics comes at an essential time for Ohio,” said BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers. “Through this public university, private university, and public community college partnership, we will ensure our region’s institutions are working together to provide relevant academic programs, facilities and connections with businesses to prepare the trained professionals needed to support and sustain industry growth. We remain focused on meeting our students’ and society’s needs while ensuring Ohio continues to be a leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics.”

The Center will initially have three operating nodes located on the partnering colleges’ campuses, all along the I-75 corridor. Each institution will provide distinctive training opportunities, ranging from non-degree track certifications and badges to associate, bachelor’s and post-graduate degrees, to address workforce needs.

In addition, the Center will also provide applied research, prototyping and experiential learning opportunities to solve industry problems and provide hands-on learning experience for talent development.

As executive director, Mayle will work at the three partnering institutions’ campuses and will foster manufacturing and logistic industry jobs and company creation. He will also manage the Center’s external engagement to integrate the Center’s programs into the region’s ecosystem.

“I am thrilled to welcome Tim Mayle as the inaugural executive director of the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics,” said Owens Community College President Dr. Dione D. Somerville. “His experience in economic development and his long history in northwest Ohio make him the perfect candidate. Tim will bring an entrepreneurial spirit and the energy that we need to ensure the success of the Center. As a champion of education’s role in the prosperity of a community, Tim has been an invaluable partner. He understands how an alignment between workforce and higher education will help drive our region’s professional pipeline. The Center is poised to have an incredible impact, and we are excited to see Tim’s leadership continue to move us forward.”

Mayle was appointed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine to serve on the Transportation Review Advisory Council to the Ohio Department of Transportation. He also serves as president of the Ohio Economic Development Association Board of Directors and will continue his work on both statewide initiatives.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Systems from Ohio University. Mayle is set to begin his role as executive director for the Center of Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics on Nov. 1.

Release courtesy BGSU Office of Marketing and Brand Strategy with collaboration from the Owens Community College and the University of Findlay strategic marketing and communications offices.

Community Members, Prospective New Students Invited to Owens Community College Open House Monday, October 17

Posted on October 11th, 2022

Owens Community College invites community members and prospective new students to the annual Open House from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, October 17. Community members and prospective new students will have the opportunity to explore academic programs, transfer options and more.

“With more than 70 programs, Owens Community College is ready to show northwest Ohio all that it has to offer at both our Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses,” said Dave Shaffer, executive director of Owens student services. “We have a number of new programs that we are excited for the community to explore. Faculty and staff will be available to talk about all of our degree and transfer options and how Owens is the perfect college to begin building a better future.”

At Open House, prospective students will be able to complete the Admissions application, learn about tuition, financial aid and payment options as well as learn more about student life on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. “This really is an opportunity for prospective students and the community to see how Owens Community College fits into their lives now and creates a pathway for their future,” said Shaffer.

The Open House will be located in Veterans Hall 201 on the Toledo-area Campus and Education Center 111 on the Findlay-area Campus.

Campus tours are also available. More details are available at www.owens.edu/openhouse.

Owens Community College STEM Job Fair

Posted on September 28th, 2022

When: 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 4

Where: Industrial & Engineering Technologies 109

7250 College Dr. East

Perrysburg, OH

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

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

For more information, email peter_kowal@owens.edu or visit www.owens.edu/STEM

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

President Somerville Highlights College Achievements, Presents Top Teaching Award

Posted on August 22nd, 2022

Owens Community College State of the College Address

Dr. Dione D. Somerville began her second academic year as president on Monday, August 22 by highlighting Owens Community College’s achievements to faculty, staff and community guests, including Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Randy Gardner.

She also recognized this year’s Presidential Teaching Award recipient, nursing professor Julie Lohse, who also received the 2021 top teaching award in the college’s School of Nursing and Health Professions. Lohse is entering her 24^th academic year teaching as Owens, having begun her career in Fall 1998. Other award finalists were Julie Chesser, professor, math; Cory Hoover, professor, English; and Kristin Price, professor, social and behavioral sciences.

Dr. Somerville highlighted enrollment, budget matters and partnerships, among other initiatives, as she spoke on the Findlay-area Campus in the morning and again on the Toledo-area Campus in the afternoon.

“My vision for Owens is our vision for Owens,” she said, referring to the college’s vision statement of being the area’s premier two-year college, a first choice for students seeking higher education and an indispensable partner for businesses, educational institutions and community organizations.

She shared about the implementation of the new Strategic Enrollment Management Plan and its importance considering the projected decline of high school graduates over the next decade. She said the balanced budget, adopted by the Board of Trustees, was built on areas of need with consideration for strategic initiatives, including the new Workday ERP software that will service the entire college.

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

Looking forward, she spoke about capital renovations and centralizing the college’s nursing and health profession programs on the east side of Oregon Road on the Toledo-area Campus. Construction on the former library building and Audio-Visual Classroom Center is anticipated to begin in 2023 with completion for Fall Semester 2024.

Also in 2023, the Findlay-area Campus will celebrate its 40^th anniversary serving Findlay and the greater Hancock County area. Plans are underway to create a planning group for this milestone.

With the college’s current strategic plan expiring this year, Dr. Somerville said Owens plans to continue working with internal and external stakeholders on developing the new plan to ensure Owens maintains its position serving students and the region. She held several listening sessions on the subject, both on campus and in the community, during the past academic year.

Owens President Somerville Among 26 Selected for Aspen Institute’s National Fellowship

Posted on August 22nd, 2022

The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program (Aspen) has named Owens Community College President Dr. Dione D. Somerville among 26 leaders for its national New Presidents Fellowship Class of 2022-23. This program supports community college presidents in the early years of their tenure as they work to achieve higher and more equitable levels of student success.

“I am honored to be selected for the Aspen Fellowship,” said Dr. Somerville, who began as the eighth Owens president in June 2021. “The Aspen Institute is known for its exceptional work with community colleges at the national level. I look forward to working with the distinguished fellows in my class and identifying best practices that will help make a difference for Owens Community College and our students.”

This class of fellows represents the diversity of our nation’s community colleges, collectively serving more than 250,000 students at colleges across the nation, in urban, suburban and rural areas. The incoming class of New Presidents Fellows is 46 percent female and 65 percent are people of color. Located in 19 states, their institutions too are diverse, from a tribal college with fewer than 300 students to an urban college that educates more than 35,000 each year.

The fellows, selected through a competitive process, will work closely with other transformational community college presidents and Aspen leaders over nine months to learn from field-leading research, analyze their colleges’ student outcomes, and clarify their visions for excellent and equitable outcomes for students while in college and after they graduate.

“The quality of our nation’s community colleges depends on the quality of our college presidents,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the College Excellence Program. “I am continually inspired and motivated by the dedication and expertise that our fellows bring to the work of advancing excellence and equity on their campuses, and I look forward to seeing the changes they make in real time to improve outcomes for their students.”

Prior to taking the presidency at Owens, Dr. Somerville held leadership positions at Hawkeye Community College, Bloomsburg University, Iowa State University and Lorain County Community College. She earned her doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania, her master’s degree from Bowling Green State University and her bachelor’s degree from Ohio Northern University. The Detroit native worked a graduate assistantship at the University of Findlay. Dr. Somerville participated in the Harvard University Institute for Education Management and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities’ Millennium Leadership Institute.

For bios and photos of all 26 leaders, visit highered.aspeninstitute.org/meet-the-new-presidents-fellows.

Owens Healthcare Students Gain Clinical Access, Including Supervised Direct Patient Care

Posted on August 15th, 2022

Owens Community College and Blanchard Valley Health System Expand Partnership

Owens Community College and Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS) have signed a formal agreement that expands clinical site access for tomorrow’s healthcare workers studying at Owens, including nurses and allied health professionals.

The agreement calls for supervised access to direct patient care to provide clinical training and experience for Owens students enrolled primarily in the college’s School of Nursing and Health Professions, from the Findlay-area Campus on Bright Road and the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg.

Blanchard Valley Health System’s clinical sites include Blanchard Valley Hospital and Bluffton Hospital, among others. Clinical sites will accommodate a minimum of six and maximum of 10 clinical groups consisting of six to seven students per group during both the Spring and Fall semesters.

“We are very excited about this partnership with Owens Community College, as we work together to offer the opportunity for individuals in northwest Ohio to develop skills and become dedicated healthcare workers,” said Myron Lewis, president and chief executive officer of BVHS. “Collaborations such as these are extremely beneficial to the communities we serve, not only by creating jobs, but also by ensuring quality healthcare services for generations to come.”

“At Owens, we strive to provide our students with dynamic and interactive educational experiences,” said Dr. Dione D. Somerville, president of Owens Community College. “We value our partnership with Blanchard Valley Health System and the opportunities it provides our students and our communities. These kinds of partnerships ensure we educate healthcare workers and other graduates who are prepared and ready for their careers.”

Pre-nursing seats remain available for Fall Semester, which begins August 29. The need for registered nurses is expected to grow by 9 percent by 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Owens students in Ultrasound Technology, MRI, Radiological Technology, Surgical Technology, Sterile Processing and Vascular Technology as well as students in Emergency Medical Services in the college’s Public Safety program also will work clinicals at BVHS.

“The increased clinical opportunities at Blanchard Valley Health System will expose our students to a real-world work environment and demonstrate what is expected following graduation as they begin their careers,” said Irene Jones, Owens nursing program chair. “We are very excited to have these clinical seats for our students.”

“Clinical positions are vitally important to the overall well-being of our public health environment,” said Barbara J. Pasztor, chief nursing officer and chief operating officer of acute care services at BVHS. “Through this partnership with Owens Community College, we are elated to be able to collaborate in order to advance the careers of future healthcare providers within our own region.”

For more information about Owens Community College nursing or healthcare programs, visit www.owens.edu/snhp.

Owens Community College Adjunct Faculty Recruitment Event

Posted on July 28th, 2022

When: 5-6 p.m. Thursday, August 4, 2022

Where: Online via Blackboard Collaborate. www.owens.edu/adjunct

What: Owens is seeking adjunct faculty in many academic disciplines, including nursing, skilled trades, humanities, social & behavior sciences and fine and performing arts and more! Anyone interested in learning more about working as an adjunct faculty member at Owens should attend.

Benefits: The benefits include …

Flexible teaching schedule
Potential to teach courses online
Earn additional income
Educate tomorrow’s employees

For more information, contact michael_sander@owens.edu.

Legal Assistant Technology Degree to begin in Fall 2022 at Owens Community College

Posted on July 19th, 2022

Students interested in studying law will be able to pursue the new Legal Assistant Technology degree at Owens Community College beginning Fall 2022.

Paralegals and legal assistants have a projected job growth of 12 percent through 2030, which is more than the average growth rate of 8 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are currently more than 345,000 jobs available with a median pay of $56,230. “These students are in demand, will be well paid and will serve a community need. Law firms and legal departments within large organizations would not be able to maintain efficiency without legal assistants,” said Libby King, Business Technologies Chair.

Legal Assistant Technology students will learn general office skills, data processing and have a basic understanding of legal requirements of businesses, litigation, contract and legal research. Throughout the program, students can expect to understand legal research, client services and how to draft legal documents and correspondence.

Upon completion of the degree, students will be equipped for entry-level positions within a legal department or firm.

Learn more about the Legal Assistant Technology degree here or contact the Owens Admissions Office at (567) 661-7777 or admissions@owens.edu.

Owens Community College to offer Animation Major

Posted on July 19th, 2022

Students will have another way to explore their creativity with a new degree offered at Owens Community College. Beginning in Fall 2022, Owens will offer an Animation Major.

The Animation Major is part of the expanded technical arts program at Owens that features Visual Communication Technology (formerly Commercial Art) and Commercial Photography in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. In this two-year course, students will master illustration, graphic design and application of 2D animation through classes such as life drawing, digital video, digital media for animation and more.

“Students will understand fundamental principles of illustration, typography and graphic design as well as the application of animation principles as they relate to the digital media industry,” said Jeremy Maier, Chair of Fine and Performing Arts.

According to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services 2028 Ohio Job Outlook, graduates of the program can earn up to $27 per hour with careers such as animators, game design artists, character and background designer and storyboard artists.

Learn more about the Animation major here or contact the Owens Admissions Office at (567) 661-7777 or admissions@owens.edu.

Owens Community College to offer new American Sign Language (ASL) Certificate

Posted on July 19th, 2022

There are more than 350 languages spoken in the United States. One highly specialized language used by thousands of Americans is not spoken. Beginning in Fall 2022, Owens Community College will offer an American Sign Language Certificate.

“Having the American Sign Language Certificate available at Owens Community College will really set our students apart and set them up for a path to success,” said Jen Hazel, Humanities Program Director. This certificate can stand alone or be added to other degree fields in health care, education or business to increase a student’s post-graduate employment options, Hazel said.

In this two-semester certificate program, students will learn fingerspelling, numbers, receptive skills and about deaf culture. With these skills, students will have a solid foundation to work with individuals who are deaf, hearing impaired or have a delay or cognitive disability where expressive and/or receptive language is limited.

Employers in those fields continue to broaden their search for multi-lingual employees and it can boost income significantly. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipated growth for ASL Interpreters is 24 percent by 2030; 8 percent is the average. The American Sign Language Certificate gives students a solid foundation of the language and culture before entering an ASL Interpreter program.”

Learn more about the American Sign Language Certificate here or contact the Owens Admissions Office at (567) 661-7777 or admissions@owens.edu.

Local Companies Seek Manufacturing Apprentices

Posted on July 14th, 2022

The Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus is looking to educate the next class of manufacturing apprentices for a special program operated by Raise the Bar Hancock County (RTB). In the Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnership (RAMP) Manufacturing Apprenticeship, apprentices will be trained as multi-skilled technicians and earn while they learn. Companies directly hire apprentices to work a minimum of 24 hours per week at a competitive hourly wage as well as pay for at least half of an apprentice’s tuition and fees.

“This program gives both apprentices and companies an advantage as they continue to excel in the manufacturing world,” said Quinton Roberts, Dean of Workforce and Community Services at Owens Community College. “At Owens, we want to help not only our students succeed, but our region as well.”

RAMP was created in 2018 through a unique partnership including local companies, Hancock County’s workforce development organization Raise the Bar and Owens. The program has since graduated 17 apprentices, all remaining in employment, after their two years in the program.

“The RAMP program helps individuals gain meaningful employment and experience for in-demand positions. Once individuals learn the knowledge and skills they need for their company positions, the opportunity is endless,” said Tricia Valasek, Raise the Bar Executive Director.

Three sponsoring companies are seeking RAMP apprentices: Hitachi Astemo (formerly Nissin Brake Ohio), Kalmbach Feeds and Cooper Tire and Rubber Mold Operations. The RAMP admissions process is selective. Students are chosen by the company based on academic success, math capabilities and interpersonal skills during an interview process. Applications and interviews will continue occurring now through Monday, August 15.

The apprentices would begin Owens classes at the start of Fall Semester on Monday, August 29.

Learn more about the RAMP program here or fill out an interest form.

Owens Community College to Offer Media Influencer Certificate

Posted on June 29th, 2022

You might follow them on social media, you might even have bought products because of their videos. Media influencers. Now, you have the ability to become a media influencer right in northwest Ohio.

Owens Community College offers one of the first-of-its-kind Media Influencer Certificate beginning Fall 2022. The two-semester program can be completed on its own, or as an add-on to any program.

“This certificate will appeal to a broad range of students, such as students in Broadcast Media Technology, Commercial Art Technology, Music Business Technology and Entrepreneurship. It will be a benefit for them to learn to market themselves. Forbes recently published about this new and emerging career and predicts influencer marketing will swell to $15 billion this year. It’s an exciting opportunity for our students to get started now,” said Jen Hazel, Program Director, Humanities.

In this program, students will become proficient in visual storytelling, website building and advertising. Through different courses, students will learn skills such as web graphics creation, photography, writing, business and advertising.

As a media influencer, certificate holders will have the experience to influence others on social media to purchase items or services based on their reputation. According to Zip Recruiter, a media influencer could earn up to $74,500 if hired by a company. The salary could surpass $100,000 for freelancers.

Learn more about the Media Influencer Certificate here or contact the Owens Admissions Office at (567) 661-7777 or admissions@owens.edu.

2022 Artist in Residence at Owens Community College

Posted on June 7th, 2022

The Owens Community College Department of Fine and Performing Arts is proud to host Lee Fearnside and Simone Spruce, both of Toledo, as this year’s Artist in Residence.

Fearnside and Spruce will be featuring “Dissecting the Meaning of Community,” exhibits that respond to the events of 2020 that have redefined our social world. The two bodies of work will occupy different spaces in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery on the Toledo-area Campus, but the works reflect similar questions. Community can be defined by place, identity, affinity, affiliation and is more complex than surveys can portray. The way people talk about community is different with the age of social media, the internet and a global pandemic. Fearnside’s and Spruce’s work questions concepts of community, the impact of events on community, and invite viewers to consider how they conceive of community.

Lee Fearnside “Death Never Dies”

This artwork mourns 27 public figures who died in 2020 with essays and poetry by 40 writers paired with relief print portraits. The public figures range from Eddie Van Halen to Ellis Marsalis Jr., George Floyd to Jim Lehrer, Ruth Bader Ginsburg to Kobe Bryant. By reflecting on people through words and images, this project asks who and what do we want to say goodbye to, and who and what do we want to remember. Together, these images and words help us understand our relationships to each other and to ourselves during this tumultuous year.

Simone Spruce “Out of the Dark”

This installation has two sections. The first section is shrouded in cloth to create a dark space as the art is illuminated individually by spotlights. This work includes images from Spruce’s “To Serve and Protect” series. In “To Serve and Protect 2” Spruce asked viewers to remember that George Floyd had a mother. His death unified mothers around the world. Remember, a mother’s love is a mother’s love. In his last breaths, George called for her. There are no features on the officer and the black man’s features are not distinct. Spruce chose to paint the image in that manner because of the long history of police brutality.

There will be an opening reception from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, June 9. The exhibit will be open through August 12.

Owens Community College Cybersecurity Camp June 22 – 24

Posted on June 1st, 2022

Owens Community College Workforce and Community Services invites kids in grades 7-9 to a cybersecurity camp June 22 – 24. This camp is part of the Kids Classes and Camp series at the Dana Center, located at 458 Depot Road, Perrysburg, at the Owens Toledo-area Campus. Cost is $25.

“If we think about getting students excited about cybersecurity and what that looks like, starting them earlier on, even if they don’t go for the cybersecurity pathway, at least they’ve got that in their mind, at least they’re thinking about it,” said Eli Cochran, the camp’s featured instructor and a cybersecurity instructor from Delaware County Career Center.

No pre-requisites are required to attend the camp. Kids will learn a variety of skills at the camp, including coding and encryption through hands-on activities. They also will take part in interactive conversations and friendly competition.

The class will be held from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. the first two days and 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. the final day. Space is limited. For more information, contact Workforce and Community Services at wcs@owens.edu or (567) 661-7357.

To register for the camp, visit www.owens.edu/cybercamp

Owens Named Among Ohio’s Inaugural Collegiate Purple Star Campuses as Leader for Military-Affiliated Students

Posted on May 26th, 2022

Owens Community College’s outreach to those who serve or have served our great nation dates to its opening in 1965. The Rossford Army Ordnance Depot once occupied a site that is now a short walk to the College’s Veterans Hall. An Ohio Historical Society marker commemorates the location.

Owens has continued to refine and advance its services for military-affiliated students ever since. As a state leader in veterans’ services, the State of Ohio announced its inaugural class of College Purple Star Campuses, including Owens Community College.

Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Randy Gardner made the announcement in advance of Memorial Day weekend and during Military Appreciation Month.

“Owens Community College has a long history of providing a supportive environment for military-affiliated students,” Dr. Dione D. Somerville, Owens President, said. “Being named a College Purple Star Campus in the inaugural class is truly an honor and a testament to the work we’re doing with our military-affiliated students who are seeking a higher education and pathway forward in life.”

Led by Sharron Pappas, Manager of Veterans Services (Navy), Owens served more than 500 military-affiliated students in the 2021-22 academic year.

Student veterans, active duty service members and dependents and spouses of veterans have access to Veterans Hall, which includes a lounge area, study room, kitchenette and computer lab. These military-affiliated students also have an opportunity to get involved in the Owens Student Veterans Organization (SVO), which is registered with the national Student Veterans of America. Student veterans have the option to apply for scholarships through the SVO.

A total of 33 colleges and universities in Ohio received the Purple Star designation. Ohio is the first state in the nation to award Purple Star designations.

“Congratulations to the 33 schools chosen as the first College Purple Star Campuses,” Governor Mike DeWine said. “Thank you for being examples of Ohio’s proud tradition of honoring our servicemen and women. With these Collegiate Purple Star Award designations, servicemembers, veterans and military-connected students are able to pursue higher education knowing that their school has the necessary support system and guidance to help them find their next steps.”

For more information about Owens Community College Veterans Services, please visit www.owens.edu/veterans.

College to Award 538 Associate Degrees at Spring Commencement ceremonies

Posted on May 23rd, 2022

On Friday, May 27, Owens Community College will award 538 associate degrees at the 56^th Spring Commencement ceremonies at the Student Health and Activities on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg.

A total of 36 students from the Findlay-area Campus will join the Toledo-area Campus graduates for the Commencement ceremonies scheduled at 10 a.m. for the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; 1 p.m. for the School of Business, Hospitality Management and Public Safety and School of Liberal Arts; and 4 p.m. for the School of Nursing and Health Professions.

The graduating class features 197 students graduating with honors (3.5 grade-point average and above) as well as outstanding academic program graduates. All will be recognized at the ceremony.

This year’s Outstanding Graduates are:

Outstanding Graduate in Applied Engineering and Industrial Technologies: Austen Nissen, Welding, Perrysburg
Outstanding Graduate in Electrical Engineering and Computer Technologies: Dillion Gibbs, Electrical Engineering Technology, Morenci, Michigan
Outstanding Graduate in Transportation Technology: Wesley Sweet, John Deere Tech, Georgetown, Ohio
Gerald Bazer Outstanding Arts and Sciences Graduate: Caitlin Jones, Geography Concentration, Perrysburg
Outstanding Graduate in Business Technology: Caitlin Parker, Business Management Technology, Holland
Outstanding Graduate in Criminal Justice: Kara McCloud, Criminal Justice Transfer Pathway, Maumee
Outstanding Graduate in Food, Nutrition and Hospitality: Nakia Randleman, Culinary Arts, Sandusky
Janell Lang Outstanding Service Award in Health Professions: Olivia Wesley, Dental Hygiene, Toledo
Linda Myers Outstanding Radiography Student Award: Emily Tate, Radiologic Technology, Whitehouse
Outstanding Vascular Sonography Student Award: Kaylee Dombrowski, Vascular Sonography, Toledo
Outstanding Diagnostic Medical Sonography Student Award: Taylor Edwards, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Toledo
Outstanding MRI Student Award: Christopher Carr, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Toledo

State Board Recertifies College’s Department of Public Safety

Posted on April 28th, 2022

The Owens Community College Department of Public Safety (DPS), led by Chief Steven M. Harrison, has been recognized by the Ohio Collaborative Community-Police Advisory Board. Created to hold agencies to high standards, accountability and instill a greater confidence with the public, the Ohio Collaborative certified or recertified the College’s department in these three categories:

Use of force and recruitment and hiring
Community engagement
Bias free policing and investigation of employee misconduct

“We are always looking for ways to increase public trust and confidence. Being certified by the Ohio Collaborative helps us improve those efforts,” said Chief Harrison. “People can come to our college and know they are going to be in a safe learning environment.”

The College’s DPS was recertified for use of force, recruitment and hiring standards. In order to receive recertification, the department had to meeting various protocols including:

Conduct investigation/report review for use of force policy compliance.
Establish an agency recruitment plan.
Detail the sworn officer application and selection process.

DPS has received certification for community engagement as well as bias free policing and investigation of employee misconduct standard. To receive these new certifications, the department had to meet specific protocols including:

Share photos of agency personnel participating in activities or information exchanges.
Document reviews of body camera capture data.
Define timelines for the resolution of complaints.

The Ohio Collaborative is a 12-person panel comprised of law enforcement experts and community leaders, originally established in 2014. A total of 573 law enforcement agencies in Ohio have received certification.

Owens Express Baseball Team Hosts Doubleheader at Fifth Third Field April 30

Posted on April 19th, 2022

The Owens Express baseball team, led by head coach John Parisho, is returning to Fifth Third Field in downtown Toledo for an exciting doubleheader in preparation for the postseason and another run to the NJCAA Division III World Series. The Express will take on the Bryant & Stratton Bobcats on Saturday, April 30, beginning at 4 p.m. in the final “home” regular season games this season.

The Bryant & Stratton games will conclude Ohio Community College Athletic Conference play for the Express, who are in contention for the conference championship before beginning postseason play Tuesday, May 10.

Between games at Fifth Third Field, the Express athletic department will also celebrate its two national championship teams with on-field recognition. The Owens Express women’s volleyball team and head coach Sonny Lewis won its third consecutive national championship in November. Then, in March, the Owens Express women’s basketball team and head coach Stephen Perry, cut down the nets as the team won its first national championship. This was the first time since 2003 that the same school won the national championship in both sports in the same school year.

“We invite the entire Owens community, students and baseball fans to Fifth Third Field because it’s going to be a great Saturday for Owens Express sports in downtown Toledo,” Shelley Whitaker, Owens Express Athletic Director, said. “Our baseball team can’t wait to play a doubleheader at the best minor league stadium in America.”

The Express doubleheader is the start of a multi-year partnership with the Mud Hens and Fifth Third Field. “We are so excited for the return of baseball and look forward to our continued partnership this season and beyond,” said Troy Hammersmith, Manager of Special Events with the Toledo Mud Hens. The Express has inked a deal to host doubleheaders in downtown Toledo for the next two seasons.

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

Purchase tickets HERE

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

College Hosts Visionary Ohio Author, Big Read’s Saeed Jones

Posted on April 15th, 2022

Owens Community College is pleased to host Ohio’s own Saeed Jones to discuss his recent memoir, “How We Fight for Our Lives,” the Owens 2021–22 Big Read selection. This hybrid in-person and virtual event culminates the year-long, college-wide exploration of Jones’s book, which has included a radio discussion series, ongoing events on campus and in local public libraries, and reading-related community service projects.

Spearheaded by award-winning Professor of English Jen Hazel and Director of Library Services Jane Berger, the Owens Big Read program brings awareness of different perspectives through books and accompanying activities on campus and in our surrounding communities. Accordingly, “How We Fight for Our Lives” chronicles Jones’s own journey as a queer Black man raised in Texas. Since its 2019 publication, the book has won numerous accolades, including the Kirkus Prize for Nonfiction and inclusion on Time magazine’s list of must-read books.

“Throughout this academic year, Saeed Jones’s telling of his personal history has sparked conversations, connections and new understanding on our campuses and beyond,” said Dr. Dione D. Somerville, president of Owens Community College. “We’re excited to host Mr. Jones to conclude the Big Read experience of his memoir and consider its implications on our own lives. I’m also proud to commend Professor Hazel and Director Berger on their shepherding of this year’s program and look forward to seeing what next year’s Big Read brings.”

WHO: Author Saeed Jones

WHAT: The Big Read Presents: Saeed Jones

WHEN: Thursday, April 28

WHERE: CFPA Theatre (10 a.m.), Toledo-area Campus; and Education Center 111 (1:30 p.m.), Findlay-area campus

LINK: https://owens-edu.zoom.us/j/83905535192 (10 a.m. only)

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

College Receives Nearly $190,000 from State of Ohio for In-Demand Job Training

Posted on April 11th, 2022

The Ohio Department of Higher Education has invested nearly $190,000 in Owens Community College to create the Ohio Short-Term Certificate Grant Program allowing in-state students to receive up to $2,000 in need-based aid toward the cost of in-demand, career certificates.

Eligible students may apply and receive up to three different awards, provided the certificates are completed in succession.

These certificates include 26 credit and non-credit options in manufacturing and skilled trades, pre-apprenticeships, health support professions, logistics, office support, sales and first responders. Credit certificates are 30 hours or less, while non-credit certificates are 900 clock hours or less.

“We are excited to bring this opportunity to Owens Community College students,” said Dr. Denise Smith, Owens Provost and Chief Academic Officer. “After they complete their short-term certificate or credential, they will be prepared for licensure, if it’s required for employment, or they will be able to take the next step in a career pathway.”

Students may apply online for the Ohio Short-Term Certificate Grant Program funds immediately using the online application at www.owens.edu/financial_aid/scholarships/. The total award of $186,966 is available until June 30, 2023.

For more information, email the Owens Community College Office of Admissions at admissions@owens.edu.

COLLEGE CELEBRATES PROFESSOR OF ENGLISH JEN HAZEL FOR NATIONAL AWARD

Posted on April 4th, 2022

PERRYSBURG, Ohio – Owens Community College Professor of English Jen Hazel has been selected for the 2022 Dale P. Parnell Faculty Distinction Recognition by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). Awarded to select individuals who make a difference in community college classrooms across the United States, this highly competitive national designation honors faculty who are active in their students’ lives and in their colleges’ activities to ensure student success.

“My passion for teaching runs deep, so I was honored to be nominated for this award,” Professor Hazel said. “Owens is such a great place to work; I know I am making a difference here. This award motivates me to continue doing the work I love and supporting our students, both in and outside of the classroom.”

“Speaking on behalf of the entire Owens community, I am thrilled for Jen and applaud the award committee’s recognition of what she has achieved,” said Dr. Dione D. Somerville, President of Owens Community College. “Her passion is evident from her many committee activities, her efforts to increase student access to Open Education Resources (OER) and her commitment to providing rich and relevant learning experiences for all. Jen consistently goes above and beyond to find ways that each student can learn, and we are so fortunate to have her on our team.”

Professor Hazel has taught at Owens for 15 years. In addition to her classroom instruction, she serves as the campus Assessment Lead and on the Completion, Center for Teaching and Innovation Implementation, and Opening Week teams. Professor Hazel also co-chairs the Curriculum Committee and the BIG Read and chairs the Oregon Road Film Series and The Silo committees. In the Humanities Department, where she is the Program Director, she currently spearheads the effort to embed tutoring into Composition I courses and is incorporating OER materials into other courses, including Composition II, to ensure students have access to the support and materials they need to succeed.

This is the second straight year that Owens faculty have been recognized nationally for teaching excellence, demonstrating the quality instruction students receive at the College. Associate Professor of Math Sarah Long received the Distinguished Faculty Recognition in 2021. In addition to AACC recognition, award winners also receive a custom commemorative medal and are further celebrated at a private reception during the AACC Annual Convention, which will be held in New York City from April 30–May 3 this year.

Owens Community College Hosts Area’s Largest College Night Events

Posted on February 25th, 2022

High school students and their parents, as well as prospective students of all ages, are invited to meet with representatives from approximately 100 colleges, universities, industries and the military when two of the premier college night events return following a two-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In partnership with 12 area high schools, Greater Hancock County College Night will begin at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 7 at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus in the Community Education and Wellness Center, 3200 Bright Road, Findlay.

In partnership with 17 local high schools, College and Career Preview Night is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 9 at the Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus in the Student Health and Activities Center, 7315 Championship Drive, Perrysburg.

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

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

COMMUNITY MEMBERS, PROSPECTIVE NEW STUDENTS INVITED TO PRESIDENT’S DAY PREVIEW MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21

Posted on February 4th, 2022

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

Campus tours will also be available. Sign up in advance at www.owens.edu/preview.

The event also features selective health admission sessions about 13 programs in the School of Nursing and Health Professions, such as Registered Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, Surgical Technology and more.

An overview of financial aid will be offered as well.

Masks will be required indoors.

Owens Community Band Begins Rehearsals January 31

Posted on January 10th, 2022

PERRYSBURG, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Community Band will begin rehearsals at 3:30 p.m. Monday, January 31 at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts (CFPA), 7270 Biniker Drive, Perrysburg.

The band is open to community members and local band students through the College’s Work and Play program to register for the semester for a $25 participation fee. Anyone interested can register in person at 2:45 p.m. before the first rehearsal or at www.owens.edu/workandplay (search: band).

The band will meet for rehearsals from 3:30-4:45 p.m. Mondays and Wednesday through May 25 and perform two Sunday concerts in the CFPA Theatre, dates TBA.

Repertoire consists of standard band literature, music from the Ohio Music Education Association required list, marches, show tunes and patriotic selections.

The band will be under the direction of Larry Clapper.

For additional information, contact Fine and Performing Arts department chair Jeremy Meier at jeremy_meier@owens.edu or (567) 661-7277.

Owens Community College Adjunct Faculty Recruitment Event

Posted on January 5th, 2022

When: 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Where: Online via Blackboard Collaborate. www.owens.edu/adjunct

What: Owens is seeking adjunct faculty in many academic disciplines, including business (management, marketing, general), culinary, biology, diesel, Caterpillar/John Deere, manufacturing, nursing, STNA and more! Anyone interested in learning more about working as an adjunct faculty member at Owens should attend.

Benefits: The benefits include …

Flexible teaching schedule
Potential to teach courses online
Earn additional income
Educate tomorrow’s employees

For more information, contact michael_sander@owens.edu.

Owens Community College to Award 459 Associate Degrees at Fall Commencement ceremonies

Posted on December 13th, 2021

Owens Community College will award 459 associate degrees at the 41st Fall Commencement ceremonies scheduled Friday, December 17 at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts theatre on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg.

Owens President Dione D. Somerville, Ed.D., will preside over her first Commencement since taking leadership at the College in June of this year.

Featuring graduates from both campus locations, including 33 who completed their studies at the Findlay-area Campus, the Commencement ceremonies are scheduled at 10 a.m. for the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; at 1 p.m. for the School of Business, Hospitality Management and Public Safety and School of Liberal Arts; and at 4 p.m. for the School of Nursing and Health Professions.

“An Owens degree is a milestone achievement. It represents an opportunity for anyone motivated to earn it – regardless of age, educational background, financial or housing status, or family situation – and our Fall 2021 class prove how beautifully Owens provides a path for so many people from all walks of life,” Dr. Somerville said.

More than 100 graduates with honors (3.5 grade-point average and above) as well as 12 outstanding academic program graduates will be among those recognized at the ceremonies. Outstanding graduates receive top honors based on wide-ranging success measures.

Outstanding Criminal Justice Award recipient Zackary McCloud of Maumee is a first generation college graduate after being the first in his family to graduate high school in 2006 in suburban Las Vegas. More than 50 percent of Owens students are first generation, meaning their parents do not have a degree from a college or university. Data is not available for a graduate such as McCloud, whose parents also did not have a high school diploma.

The son of drug addicts, he spent part of his childhood in foster care when his mother was dealing with legal issues. After high school graduation, he enlisted in the Army and served 13 years active duty with multiple combat deployments in the Middle East. The 34-year-old disabled Army veteran settled locally with his wife, Kara, also an Army veteran and an Owens student. A father of three, he is one of 12 student veterans in the graduating class.

Graduating with Summa Cum Laude honors and a 4.0 GPA, he will continue at Owens next semester to complete an Associate of Science degree in psychology and then he said he plans to transfer to the University of Toledo to continue his education.

“I’m a full-time student, a full-time husband and a full-time dad,” he said. “My goal is to open a halfway house with my wife to help people who are struggling like I did when I was younger. I want to share my story with them so they know that there is a path forward.”

In addition to McCloud, Outstanding Graduates are:

Outstanding Graduate in Business Technologies: Rebecca Shake, Business Management, Toledo
Outstanding Graduate in Food, Nutrition and Hospitality: McKenzi Tatum, Culinary Arts, Toledo
Gerald Bazer Outstanding Arts and Sciences Graduate: Ryan Jewell, Communications, Sylvania
Outstanding Graduate in Applied Engineering and Industrial Technology: Megan A. Malarcher, Environmental Science Concentration, Toledo
Outstanding Graduate in Welding Technology: Austen Nissen, Welding Major, Perrysburg
Peggy Bensman: Abena Atwimah, Registered Nursing Program, Columbus, Ohio
Barbara Rood Student Choice: Brionna Davis, Registered Nursing Program, Toledo; Eunice Dosu Registered Nursing Program, Maumee; Ryan Hall, Registered Nursing Program, Tecumseh, Michigan; Alexander Hartzell, Registered Nursing Program, Waterville; Janelle Nighswander, Registered Nursing Program, Ottawa Lake, Michigan

Owens Receives $1.16 Million Grant to Improve Adult College Readiness

Posted on December 1st, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Dec. 1, 2021 – Adults interested in pursuing higher education but unsure where to begin now have additional resources available at Owens Community College thanks to a $1.16 million Educational Opportunities Center (EOC) program grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

Owens will receive $235,050 per year for five years to help unemployed workers, low-wage workers, and returning high school and college students enter or continue a program of postsecondary education. These resources are available to members of the northwest Ohio communities, regardless of which higher educational institution they choose to attend.

“The EOC grant will allow Owens to further our commitment to making higher education accessible to the members of our community,” Denise Smith, Ph.D., provost and vice president of academic affairs, said. “Our goal is to assist adult students in their pursuit of continuing education or higher education by providing one-on-one support in obtaining their high school diploma or equivalent, connecting them with the college admissions application process and increasing their financial literacy and understanding of student financial aid options.”

Educational Opportunities Centers are one of eight federal grant programs known as the Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO), which are authorized by the Higher Education Act to help low-income, first-generation students and student with disabilities succeed in higher education. These programs assist in advancing these individuals from middle school to post-baccalaureate programs.

For more information on Owens Community College, please visit www.owens.edu or call the admissions office at (567) 661-7777. For more information on the EOC program, please contact erica_parish@owens.edu.

Bowling Green State University, Owens Community College and the University of Findlay Establish Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics

Posted on November 12th, 2021

In a unique partnership to meet Northwest Ohio’s growing need for a highly-trained workforce, three area educational institutions have come together to establish the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics.

The Center will be overseen by representatives from Bowling Green State University, Owens Community College and the University of Findlay and will work with area employers in the Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics sectors to identify and anticipate their immediate, mid-term and long-term needs in workforce training, talent development, innovation, automation, systems integration and supply chain management.

In addition, the Center will serve as a centralized resource where the business community can bring specific workforce needs for customized training solutions. The idea for the Center originated in consistent feedback from regional companies regarding the need for growing and enhancing talent to drive success.

“As an institution of opportunity with decades of history in Findlay, we know this partnership will help to meet workforce demands in advanced manufacturing and logistics. This Center will serve as a model for northwest Ohio and beyond as more institutions of higher education look to power economic development in more meaningful and strategic ways,” said Dr. Dione D. Somerville, president of Owens Community College.

The training and instructional programs will be provided across three locations (Findlay, Bowling Green, Perrysburg) and will range from on-degree track certificates and badges, to degree track curricula for associate, bachelor’s and post-graduate degrees. The Center will also focus on facilitating a wide range of co-op and internship opportunities.

“The Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics demonstrates the power of a four-year public university, a two-year public community college and a private four-year university all coming together to partner and to demonstrate our relevance to Ohio and beyond,” said BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers. “This partnership is one example of how we are meeting workforce demands by connecting education and listening and responding to industry needs.

“We are fortunate to live, learn and work in a vibrant and collaborative community,” stated Dr. Katherine Fell, president of the University of Findlay. “Having a dynamic and flexible mechanism for intentional workforce development is vital the continued growth of our region.”

EPA gives $500,000 to TMACOG, Owens Community College and City of Toledo to develop region’s water and wastewater workforce

Posted on October 15th, 2021

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is awarding nearly $500,000 to the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG), Owens Community College and the City of Toledo to develop the region’s water and wastewater workforce.

U.S. EPA recently announced the award of $494,874 from its Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Grant Program.

“Workers at water and wastewater treatment utilities provide a service that is absolutely essential to public health, the environment, and economic prosperity in their communities,” said Radhika Fox, U.S. EPA assistant administrator for water. “The water sector is facing significant workforce challenges and it is critical that EPA and its federal, state, and local partners invest in the next generation of water professionals.”

Along with its two lead partners, TMACOG sought funding after hearing member organizations describe an increasing need for trained utilities workers. The three-year project, which will also include an estimated $269,090 local investment, will develop a regional water and wastewater workforce collaborative to address workforce needs.

“City and village administrators told us that workers who treat water and wastewater are retiring faster than new staff are being brought on and trained. With skills in demand, trained personnel often leave smaller communities to work for larger utilities that may pay more, leaving those communities short-handed,” said Kari Gerwin, TMACOG’s director of Water Quality.

Ohio EPA’s 2018 water workforce survey indicated that 22 percent of the state’s drinking water operators are set to retire by 2023, with 41 percent expected to retire by 2028. For wastewater operators, 25 percent are set to retire by 2023 and 44 percent by 2028.

The project team surveyed 32 water and wastewater service providers in northwest Ohio to determine employment needs, knowledge, and skills desired in entry-level employees, and employment opportunities they have available. Of those surveyed, 75 percent indicated a need for operators, and 69 percent have full- or part-time employment opportunities or internships. Most utilities are seeking new staff with basic education or training in the field, but advanced training and experience are not required.

The goal is to increase awareness of water and wastewater career paths and build a pipeline of workers for public utilities. The collaborative will be a source of information on water sector careers, recruitment materials, curriculum, instructors, and employment connections.

The project will provide training and a clear career path for future water and wastewater operators in secondary education and career tech, through community college, and on to possible apprenticeships, internships, or bachelor’s degree programs. This work will develop a model that can be applied to the rest of the state and other areas in need of workers to protect and maintain water resources.

“The City of Toledo is pleased to support this project to build a diverse, well-prepared water infrastructure workforce,” Edward A. Moore, Toledo’s director of public utilities, wrote in a letter of support for the project. “With a significant number of retirements in both water and wastewater, the City of Toledo needs qualified professionals.”

The collaboration “will provide the experience and expertise necessary to build a stronger and more effective water utility workforce,” said Denise Smith, vice president of academic affairs and provost for Owens Community College.

Owens has developed a Water and Wastewater Certificate Program where students can earn their credential in as little as eight weeks, she explained. Contextualized learning will be delivered through hybrid methods of classroom instruction, hands-on lab experiences and test preparation.

“This new certificate program will assist with the creation of a strong pipeline of qualified workers with the knowledge and skills needed to fill jobs in the water utility sector now and in the future,” Smith said.

“We look forward to participating in this collaboration that will provide students with the education, training and access to water utility workforce opportunities throughout the region.”

Ohio EPA will provide support to the project including certification requirements, curriculum feedback and updated information about regulatory requirements. Amy J. Klei, chief of Ohio EPA’s Division of Drinking and Ground Waters, and Tiffani Kavalec, chief of the Division of Surface Water, provided a letter of support for the project during the application phase.

“Ohio EPA supports this project because it addresses an ongoing need for qualified employees entering the water and wastewater sectors,” they wrote. “Water and wastewater systems throughout Ohio need innovative ways to train and recruit personnel from entry-level to supervisors. A coordinated effort is required to address workforce development, and we applaud TMACOG’s comprehensive approach to the issue of water workforce development.”

Owens Community College Invests in Workforce Training by Opening $9.6M Dana Center

Posted on October 4th, 2021

Owens Community College will host a grand opening ceremony at 10 a.m. Wednesday, October 6 to showcase the $9.6 million Dana Incorporated Advanced Manufacturing Training Center, a facility created in response to labor market needs for the purpose of preparing skilled workers for in-demand jobs.

Also known as the Dana Center, the renovated 59,000-square-foot facility provides students with highly technical training in advanced manufacturing and the skilled trades. The Dana Center is located at 458 Depot Road, Perrysburg on the Owens’ Toledo-area Campus.

“This ceremony will allow us to publicly thank Dana Incorporated for making the lead gift that helped create the Dana Center for students of today and tomorrow,” Dr. Dione D. Somerville, Owens Community College President, said. “We would also like to thank the Gene Haas Foundation, JobsOhio and all of the donors whose contributions made this facility possible. This center helps Owens fulfill its goal of working in partnership with business and industry to advance economic development in the region.”

SSOE Group received the 2020 Excellence in Workforce Development Award by the Ohio Economic Development Associations (OEDA) for the Dana Center’s design that provides highly technical and integrated training in a modern setting with amenities including natural lighting, glass walls and polished floors – a clean and safe environment conducive to learning.

Midwest Contracting, Inc. was the general contractor.

The ceremony will conclude with a ribbon cutting and then guests will have the opportunity to tour the Dana Center’s labs and classrooms. Light refreshments will be available.

The College’s academic offerings began in 1965 with four associate degree programs, including two leading to careers related to advanced manufacturing. Today, Owens offers more than 70 associate degree programs and certificates, with more than 20 connected to the advanced manufacturing industry.

More information about the Dana Center is available at www.owens.edu/danacenter.

Community Members, Prospective New Students Invited to Owens Community College Open House Monday, October 11

Posted on September 27th, 2021

Owens Community College will host an Open House from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, October 11 to provide community members and prospective new students with an opportunity to explore academic programs and transfer options.

The Open House will be located in Veterans Hall 201 on the Toledo-area Campus and Education Center 111 on the Findlay-area Campus.

“Our faculty and staff will be available to talk about our academic majors and our transfer options to four-year colleges and universities,” Amy Giordano, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Services, said. “In addition to academics, the Owens experience includes our dedicated support services such as academic advising as well as our student clubs and organizations. We will have representatives at the Open House to discuss these services that benefit student success.”

Campus tours are also available. Sign up in advance at www.owens.edu/openhouse.

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

Masks will be required.

Owens Signs Transfer Agreement with Siena Heights University

Posted on September 2nd, 2021

Owens Community College and Siena Heights University signed an articulation agreement today creating a seamless transfer path for Owens graduates to complete their bachelor’s degree online with the 4-year university located in Adrian, Michigan.

“We are pleased to offer Owens Community College graduates the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s degree online with Siena Heights University,” said SHU President Sister Peg Albert, OP, Ph.D. “We are excited about this collaboration with Owens Community College.”

The articulation agreement is designed to provide Owens Community College graduates equal consideration with other students seeking admission and financial aid. Credit completed at Owens will transfer toward a SHU baccalaureate degree in Applied Science, Business Administration and Community and Human Services.

“We are proud to partner with Siena Heights University on this agreement,” Owens President Dione D. Somerville Ed.D., said. “Owens remains committed to providing pathways that lead to meaningful student outcomes and this partnership is further demonstration of that commitment.”

In addition, the articulation agreement also provides eligible full-time Owens Community College employees a discounted tuition rate for SHU undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

For the eighth consecutive year, SHU’s undergraduate Online Learning Program was ranked nationally by the U.S. News and World Report. For the fifth consecutive year, Siena Heights was top-rated in Michigan among all institutions. Siena Heights tied for 34th among all public and private institutions.

Owens Community College Welcomes Students, Faculty and Staff to Toledo- and Findlay-Area Campuses

Posted on August 24th, 2021

New College president Dr. Dione D. Somerville kicks off academic year, athletics

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College began its 2021–22 academic year with Opening Week all-campus meetings led by the institution’s new president, Dr. Dione D. Somerville. Fall Semester will begin on Monday, August 30.

Owens will offer a variety of class options this fall, including in-person, traditional online, hybrid and synchronous online courses. At September’s Fall Fest event, students will also be able to begin getting involved in campus organizations and taking advantage of everything Owens has to offer. Dr. Somerville met with faculty and staff on Monday, August 23 to update them on the state of the College.

“Speaking for the entire Owens community, I am so excited to move forward together this school year as we embark on a new semester and a new Owens Express athletics season,” said Dr. Somerville. During her presentations at the Toledo- and Findlay-area campuses, Dr. Somerville noted the following highlights:

Owens awarded 970 degrees and certificates in Spring 2021 and 1,841 degrees and certificates in 2020.
Assistant Professor of Broadcast Technology Rob Thomas won Owens’ first Presidential Teaching Award.
The Coalition on Adult Basic Education named Aspire Program Director Heath Huber Outstanding Administrator of the Year. Workforce and Community Services faculty Dionne Dolsey and Lisa Dowling both won Outstanding Teachers of the Year.
The American Association of Community Colleges awarded the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Recognition to Sarah Long, Associate Professor of Mathematics.
The baseball team had a 35-15 overall record in 2021, won the Great Lakes District and Region XII Championships and were College World Series Qualifiers.
The softball team had a 13-7 overall record in 2021 and won the Great Lakes District and Division III Region XII Championships.
With the allocation of CARES Act grant funding, the Counseling Services Office hired a third full-time counselor to provide more mental health support to the community.
More than $12 million in financial relief has been allocated to students since the onset of the pandemic.

Owens Extends Shuttle Bus Service to Off-Campus Locations

Posted on August 12th, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College is extending its shuttle bus service to off-campus locations in order to help create a pathway to success for students.

In setting up this free service, Owens identified the highest-enrollment neighborhoods near the Toledo-area Campus where its students could benefit from the shuttle bus service. The service begins Monday, August 30 to coincide with the start of Fall Semester classes.

“We want to eliminate barriers that many of us take for granted, such as transportation,” Amy Giordano, Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management, said. “If students do not need to worry about how they will get to class, their focus will be on being successful in class.”

The off-campus pick-up and drop-off locations include Huron Street near the City Grill in downtown Toledo, the Toledo Public Library Locke Branch in east Toledo and near Brentwood Park in Northwood.

TARTA offers service that connects near the Huron Street location in downtown Toledo, providing access to even more students who live in other locations.

The shuttle will make stops on the east and west sides of campus, at College Hall and the Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

The Owens shuttle will run on a continuous loop from 7:16 a.m. until 10:55 p.m. Monday-Friday when classes are in session. Hours will be adjusted when classes are not in session but the College is open.

Riders may be required to wear masks. Please refer to mask policies and further shuttle bus details online at www.owens.edu/shuttle.

Owens Adds Late Enrollment Event for Community Members

Posted on August 5th, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – New students still considering their higher education options will have the opportunity to get started at Owens Community College during Success Express Day on Friday, August 13.

The event will be held from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on the Toledo-area Campus, located at 30355 Oregon Road, Perrysburg. All attendees will receive a customized campus tour.

“Our faculty and academic chairs will be available to meet with students. So will our financial aid staff, who will talk about the FAFSA and how affordable an Owens education is,” Amy Giordano, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Services, said. “We want to help students gather the information they need. We want them to know there’s still time for a successful start at Owens.”

Interested students attending Success Express Day will have an opportunity to complete an application and take next steps toward enrollment for Fall Semester, which begins Monday, August 30.

“Students have so many options at Owens, whether they are degree-seeking, want a career certificate to help with job placement, or plan to earn credits and then transfer for a bachelor’s degree,” Giordano said. “Our staff will also help students if they are undecided on their future plans. What’s important is to attend Success Express Day and start the process.”

An RSVP is required to attend Success Express Day. RSVP at owens.edu/success.

OWENS EXPRESS ATHLETICS RETURN IN FULL FOR 2021- 22 ACADEMIC YEAR

Posted on May 7th, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, May 7, 2021 – Owens Community College announced today that all five Owens Express sports will return in full for the 2021-22 academic year after being partially suspended this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes women’s volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, baseball and softball.

With the updated CDC and local regulations, Owens Community College Express Athletic Department feels confident they can provide a safe atmosphere for student-athletes, game personnel and spectators. Safety protocols are in place and will continue to evolve with recommendations and mandates from State and Federal government. Owens will continue to adhere to requiring masks, social distancing and reduced spectator capacity.

“We are committed to full conference and post-season schedules, enabling our programs the opportunity to compete for championships,” stated Shelley Whitaker, director, Owens Athletics. “Institutionally, we feel it is important for our student-athletes to get back to the court/field not only for competitive purposes but also for their mental and social health. We have a rich tradition of success both on the court/field and in the classroom as well as within the community.”

Led by head coach Sonny Lewis, who will begin his 20^th collegiate season in 2021, the Express volleyball team won back-to-back national championships in 2018 and 2019 with records of 40-6 and 43-4, respectively. The team has 18 Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) titles and has won the NJCAA Region XII championship for the past five seasons.

During the 2019-20 season, the men’s basketball team was 15-15 overall with a 6-5 record in the OCCAC, while the women’s basketball team was 10-14 overall with a 6-3 record in the conference.

The baseball and softball teams are competing on the field this spring season.

For more information about Owens Express athletics, please contact Shelley Whitaker, director of athletics at shelley_whitaker2@owens.edu.

Owens Community College has served Northwest Ohio since 1965 as an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education with an open-door admission policy. With a commitment to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability, the College serves the diverse academic needs of credit and non-credit students on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens Community College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and multiple programs that are also accredited through their discipline-specific accrediting bodies. For more information, visit www.owens.edu, call (567) 661-7000, like our Facebook page and/or follow us on Twitter @OwensCC.

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OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES SELECTS DR. DIONE SOMERVILLE AS EIGHTH PRESIDENT

Posted on May 5th, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, May 5, 2021 – Following a five-month nationally advertised search by AGB search, the board of trustees for Owens Community College has named Dr. Dione Somerville the institution’s new president. The appointment was announced following today’s board meeting. Her start date is scheduled for June 15.

“It is with great pleasure that we welcome Dr. Dione Somerville to Owens Community College as its 8th president,” stated Mary Beth Hammond, chair, Owens Board of Trustees. “We look forward to Dr. Somerville’s involvement with our students, faculty, staff, community, and Board of Trustees. The Board is confident that with her leadership, the College will continue to grow and thrive in Northwest Ohio as a strong community partner while helping our students be prepared for successful and rewarding careers in the surrounding communities.”

Dr. Somerville began her 27-year career in higher education as the assistant director, Campus Programming at Ursuline College, Pepper Pike, Ohio, before taking leadership positions at Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine, Lorain County Community College, Iowa State University, Bloomsburg University and Hawkeye Community College.

Her most recent position was as executive vice president at Hawkeye Community College. Among her accomplishments, she leads the college’s COVID-19 response, including helping provide leadership to Academic Affairs during the six-month vacancy of the provost position. Responsibilities also include leading enrollment efforts, diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, strategic planning, and creating a Division of Student Affairs. Prior to Hawkeye, Dr. Somerville was vice president for student affairs at Bloomsburg University. In this position, she provided leadership for Bloomsburg’s regional accreditation and the creation of the university’s first Division of Strategic Enrollment Management. She envisioned the student wellness initiative, focusing on mental health and dependency on alcohol and other drugs. Dr. Somerville provided leadership to create the Center for Leadership and Engagement, Center for Diversity and Inclusion, modernize Greek Life, expand intercollegiate athletics, facilitate assessment, and complete fundraising efforts. Dr. Somerville oversaw the University Master Plan process, the revitalization of university housing, and the completion of Soltz Hall, a $61.4 million multi-function building inclusive of the mailroom, bookstore, integrative learning, two dining venues, and nearly 400 suite-style beds.

“I am truly honored and humbled to be selected as president of Owens Community College,” said Dr. Somerville. “I value Owens’ legacy as an institution that creates opportunity for its students and greater community and will strive to further that tradition. I look forward to working in partnership with the students, faculty, staff, Board of Trustees, and the community to continue Owens’ forward momentum.”

Dr. Somerville earned a doctorate in Higher Education Management from the University of Pennsylvania, a master’s degree in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University, and a bachelor’s degree in English/Writing from Ohio Northern University. She was a Fellow at the Association of Governing Boards Institute for Leadership and Governance in its inaugural year. She also participated in the Harvard University Institute for Education Management and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities Millennium Leadership Institute.

She has been very active in her local community, having served on the Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital Community Advisory Board, the City of Ames Student Affairs Commission, and Ames Police Community Relations Advisory Committee.

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE AWARDED CHOOSE OHIO FIRST GRANT FOR STEM SCHOLARSHIPS

Posted on April 28th, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, April 28, 2021 – Students pursuing degrees in the critical fields of science technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) at Owens Community College will be eligible for additional scholarships, thanks to the Choose Ohio First (COF) Grant program announced by the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) earlier this month.

“This important grant from the ODHE will allow Owens to help even more students thrive on their path to successful STEM careers,” said Bill Balzer, interim president, Owens Community College. “This additional financial support will provide many students with the additional resources they need to prepare for in-demand jobs and grow Ohio’s talent pipeline. This is all possible thanks to the vision and advocacy of Lieutenant Governor Husted and ODHE Chancellor Randy Gardner.”

The grant will provide $278,100 over five years to recruit and support cohorts of 10-15 students during their educational journey. Students pursuing one of Owens’ more than 75 STEM-focused degrees and certificates are awarded up to $1,500 per semester for fall and spring semesters only.

Part of the COF scholarship program at Owens includes a partnership with Bowling Green State University to assist students looking to transfer to BGSU to pursue a bachelor’s degree in STEM. This partnership provides a four-year degree pathway with an emphasis in robotics for the following programs:

Mechatronics Engineering Technology
Pre-Mechatronics Engineering Technology
Electronics & Computer Engineering Technology
Engineering Technology

The Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program is a $100 million investment to be awarded over five years, targeting universities and colleges recruiting Ohio residents into current STEM programs, supporting the increased success of students in those fields, and making substantive improvements to the pipeline of STEM students and STEM educators. Participating institutions award scholarships to students based on need and merit.

For more information about Owens’ School of STEM, please visit www.owens.edu/stem.

For more information on the Choose Ohio First program, visit www.ohiohighered.org/cof.

OWENS WELCOMES NEW BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEMBER

Posted on April 6th, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, April 6, 2021 – Owens Community College recently welcomed Sherina Ohanian, manager in Program Leadership for Insights Division, North America of Kantar, as the newest member of its Board of Trustees. She is taking the seat vacated by Edwin J. Nagle III and will serve through Sept. 21, 2022.

Ohanian is a resident of Wood County and a graduate of the University of the West Indies with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Management Studies. She began her career as a mathematics and business teacher before moving into strategic business research. She has 24 years of extensive experience working for Fortune 500 companies in technology, automotive, CPG, and finance.

She has been actively involved in the community, currently as a member of the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, a graduate of the FBI Citizens Academy and previously as a volunteer for many other organizations. Past volunteer service has included time as an executive member of the City of Perrysburg Bicentennial Celebrations, public information officer for the City of Perrysburg, president of the Perrysburg Elementary Parent Association and president of Parents Advocating Challenging Education (PACE).

The College’s Board of Trustees comprises nine community leaders appointed by the Governor of Ohio for six-year terms, chosen from the College’s service district of Lucas, Wood, Hancock, Ottawa and Sandusky counties.

In addition to Ms. Ohanian, Owens Community College Board of Trustees members include Mary Beth Hammond, Dr. Srinivas K. Hejeebu, Jason W. Johnson, Karil M. Morrissey, Richard Rowe, Rita L. Russell and Diana H. (Dee) Talmage.

For more information about Owens Board of Trustees, please visit www.owens.edu/trustees/.

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE PARTNERS WITH REUP EDUCATION TO OFFER ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS RETURNING TO COLLEGE

Posted on March 31st, 2021

ReUp Education’s combination of predictive analytics and personalized support will help students return to school and complete their degree

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, March 31, 2021 – Owens Community College announced a new initiative to provide a pathway to graduation for students with some education experience but no degree. Developed through a partnership with U.S. startup ReUp Education, the effort will use sophisticated analytics technology, as well as personalized coaching and mentorship to help Owens identify, contact, and support the reentry of stopout students.

“We are very eager to begin implementing this new initiative with ReUp Education,” stated Amy Giordano, vice president, Enrollment Management and Student Services. “Students returning to school have different needs and goals compared to first-time students. This partnership will allow us to offer additional personalized support to this largely underserved population and give them a pathway to complete their degree. Student success is our mission and we want to ensure that students have the tools they need, no matter where they are on their educational journey.”

Completing a college degree has profound impacts on social and economic mobility. Earning a degree translates to an average of $1 million additional earnings over a lifetime. In the U.S., college graduates are half as likely to be unemployed as those with a high school degree. During the economic upheaval caused by the COVID-19 crisis, helping students complete their studies will be even more critical to fulfilling the promise of tertiary education as an engine of economic opportunity.

Owen’s new partnership with ReUp is designed to help remove these barriers and support students throughout the re-enrollment process. Owens is also a member of the ReUp Network — the national on-ramp for college completion. Comprising innovative partner colleges and universities offering unique programs, the Network creates a more dynamic and equitable ecosystem to meet every student’s needs by becoming the easiest way for stop-outs to return or transfer to Owens — to earn their degree and improve their lives.

“ReUp Education helps students across the country achieve their educational goals. As a resident of Toledo, Ohio, I am excited to bring our support services to students locally by partnering with Owens Community College. It is a privilege to partner with Owens, an institution committed to fostering student and community success by offering quality, accessible education opportunities and focusing on positive student outcomes.” said ReUp Education CEO, Sarah Horn.

ReUp Education helps colleges and universities engage and re-enroll stopout students through a unique blend of predictive analytics technology, data, and personalized coaching. Once students have returned to school, ReUp provides ongoing support to foster personal accountability, encouragement, and guidance to equip students with the tools to persist and succeed.

About ReUp Education

ReUp Education is the expert in understanding, engaging, and re-enrolling stopout students. Through its unique blend of data, technology, and specialized coaching, ReUp has engaged more than 400,000 stopout students across a wide range of universities and helped re-enroll over 14,000 students. ReUp is based in San Francisco and is funded by leading education and social impact investors, including Entangled Ventures, University Ventures, Serious Change Investments, and The Impact Engine.

THREE FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR THE OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE PRESIDENT SEARCH

Posted on March 25th, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, March 25, 2021 – The Owens Community College Board of Trustees’ President Search Ad Hoc Committee announces three finalists in the national search for the next president are invited to meet the college community and interview with the Board of Trustees. Facilitated with AGB Search, the Board seeks a candidate with outstanding leadership qualities, proven success leading dynamic complex organizations and a demonstrated ability to build partnerships with key stakeholders.

The three candidates are scheduled for virtual campus visits the week of March 29, with open forums for the community, faculty, staff and students.

The three finalists for consideration:

Brandon Roderick Tucker – He currently serves as the associate vice president of Workforce & Community Development at Washtenaw Community College, Michigan. Tucker leads the College’s efforts to connect with industry and community to develop opportunities and partnerships that support enrollment, apprenticeships, workforce development, and alternative revenue goals. In this role, he has direct responsibility for the departments of Workforce & Community Development, Career Transitions, Public Service Training, College and Career Readiness, Corporate and Community Engagement and Advanced Transportation, a unique college-wide initiative comprised of academic and non-credit stakeholders that have positioned the College to be a state-wide leader in training for the field of Connected and Autonomous Vehicles. He previously served as the academic dean for the Advanced Technology & Public Services Careers division, one of the most diverse academic units. In this role, Tucker served as the academic and administrative leader for the Division which has nearly 2,000 students in both associate degree and certificate program areas, including Automotive Services, Auto Body Repair, Advanced Manufacturing, Construction Technology, Welding & Fabrication, HVAC, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, and the Police Academy.

Laura J. Treanor – She currently serves as the provost at Vincennes University, Indiana. Throughout her 30-year career, Treanor has served as an exemplary innovator and transformative leader who has developed high-impact teams, heralded new programs and services and championed academic quality. During her leadership at Vincennes University, the institution was notified of its eligibility for two Aspen Prize Awards that are based on improvements in graduation rates, student success and equitable student success: The Community College Excellence and Excellence and Equity in Community College STEM awards. Under her leadership, transfer partnerships have increased and year-over-year growth in dual credit partnerships have also increased. She oversees two of the most successful work-based learning programs in Southwest Indiana: the Toyota Advanced Manufacturing Technician Program and the Amazon Mechatronics Apprenticeship Program. The most recent partnership being forged is in cooperation with two local school districts and a regional development foundation: The launch of an Online Early College model designed to make College more accessible to students.

Dione Dorsey Somerville – She serves as executive vice president at Hawkeye Community College, Iowa. Among her accomplishments, she leads the College’s COVID-19 response, including helping provide leadership to Academic Affairs during the 6-month vacancy of the provost position. Responsibilities also include leading enrollment efforts, diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, strategic planning, and creating a Division of Student Affairs. Prior to Hawkeye, Somerville was vice president for student affairs at Bloomsburg University. Among her accomplishments, she provided leadership for Bloomsburg’s regional accreditation, creating the university’s first Division of Strategic Enrollment Management, and envisioned the student wellness initiative, with a particular focus on mental health and dependency on alcohol and other drugs. Somerville provided leadership to create the Center for Leadership and Engagement, Center for Diversity and Inclusion, modernize Greek Life, expand intercollegiate athletics, facilitate assessment, and complete fundraising efforts. Somerville provided leadership during the University Master Plan process, the revitalization of university housing, and the completion of Soltz Hall, a $61.4 million multi-function building inclusive of the mailroom, bookstore, integrative learning, two dining venues, and nearly 400 suite-style beds.

Additional information about the Owens President Search, including finalists’ bios and the open forum schedule, can be found by visiting www.owens.edu/president-search/.

OWENS ANNOUNCED AS FINALIST FOR NATIONAL AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

Posted on March 23rd, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, March. 23, 2021 – Owens Community College has been named a finalist in two categories – Outstanding College/Corporate Partnership and Students Success – for the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) 2021 Awards of Excellence. The national awards recognize exceptional work among the nation’s two-year colleges.

Owens is one of twelve community colleges and the only one from Ohio to be recognized as a finalist for the AACC 2021 Awards of Excellence.

“We are pleased to be recognized by the AACC as finalists for our corporate partnerships and student success initiatives,” stated Bill Balzer, interim president, Owens Community College. “Fostering success for both students and our community is our mission and we are extremely proud of all the amazing work being done by our exceptional faculty and staff.”

The Outstanding College/Corporate Partnership Award honors local, regional and national collaboration between a college and corporate partner that has achieved demonstrable, multi-year success in advancing the mission of the institution(s), the economic prosperity of a community, region or the nation, and the learning excellence of students.

Owens has been recognized for its partnership with Raise the Bar Hancock County and eight Findlay-Hancock County manufacturers to launch the Ohio Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (OH! FAME) program.

“What makes this partnership successful is the role the businesses play. They are active in developing curriculum, guest speakers, board members, and much more,” said Tracy Campbell, assistant director, Advanced Manufacturing and FAME. “Each student has an employer mentor as well as a college success coach to help guide them on their career path along with their educational path. It is a pleasure to be able to work with the students and employers to help fill the needs of the region.”

The Student Success Award recognizes a community college that has demonstrated, through evidence, a sustained commitment to proactively advancing the cause of student success at a community college.

Over the past two years, the College has transformed its student placement processes and how to improve underprepared students’ success. The College has moved from a single measure of placement to a more holistic approach using multiple criteria and student feedback to provide more accurate placement.

In addition, the College embarked on a complete review of all its associate degrees to decrease both the number of credit hours required and time until completion. The majority of programs now have clear pathways to completion in 60-65 credit hours by streamlining the choice of program courses and removing unnecessary elective credits.

AACC’s Awards of Excellence underscores the association’s priorities and brings national visibility to promising practices among its member colleges.

Nominees will be judged by a select committee of the AACC Board of Directors. The winners will be announced at the Awards of Excellence Virtual Gala during AACC Digital in May 2021.

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE OFFERS FREE DENTAL HYGIENE DAY FOR KIDS

Posted on February 25th, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Feb. 25, 2021 – According to the American Dental Hygiene Association (ADHA), tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood, affecting 60 percent of children ages 5 to 17 and 25 percent of children under the age of 5. These statistics are why Owens Dental Hygiene Department has provided dental care to the underserved for 15 years at its annual Give Kids A Smile event. Due to the overwhelming response to the event this year, the Dental Hygiene Department is offering additional free Dental Hygiene Days for kids.

“This year, due to COVID, we still provided much-needed services to help with access-to-care issues in our community but on a smaller scale, stated Beth Tronolone, chair, Owens Dental Hygiene Program. “The event was a great success. Appointments filled up within a week, demonstrating the need for access to dental care for children in our community. In response, we are offering anyone that could not make the event an opportunity to schedule a free appointment.”

The ADHA believes that the secret to oral health for life is establishing a healthy dental hygiene routine from the start. When parents understand more about nutrition, fluoride, brushing habits, flossing, rinsing, and more, they start to see that prevention is the key to success.

To schedule an appointment, area residents should call (567) 661-7294 and ask for the Free Dental Hygiene Day for kids. An appointment will be booked during regular dental hygiene clinic hours.

“At Owens, we feel privileged to assist in this long-standing tradition to bridge the gap between providing dental hygiene care and access-to-care issues,” said Tronolone.

Per CDC guidelines, the clinic is limiting the number of children per day to ensure a safe environment.

Owens’ Dental Hygiene 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. The clinic provides dental care in the form of exams by a dentist, x-rays, oral hygiene and nutritional education, dental cleanings, fluoride varnish and restorative treatment needs if necessary. Appointments usually are available during the Fall and Spring semesters for a $35 fee.

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE OFFERS SAFE INDIVIDUALIZED TOURS FOR POTENTIAL STUDENTS

Posted on February 4th, 2021

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Feb. 4, 2021 – The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many of the experiences that first-time students have come to expect when planning for college. Still, Owens Community College is committed to giving potential students as full experience as possible in a safe environment. Owens will be offering individualized tours during its annual President’s Day Preview, Mon., Feb. 15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“We are finding that prospective students and their families want to come to campus and see our great facilities and we want to welcome them safely,” said Erin Kramer, Owens director of Admissions. “We have found that providing individualized tours is a safe way to show families around. It’s a great opportunity to see what Owens is about.”

Prospective students will be given personal tour guides and can choose the academic areas they want to see and ask any questions they may have. Admission representatives will also help fill out applications and explain the next steps that students need to take.

Each student is welcome to bring one guest with them on tour, but they must wear masks and adhere to social distancing practices.

Tours will take place on the Toledo-area Campus and last approximately one hour.

Participants can schedule an appointment at www.owens.edu/visit/presidentsday/.

For more information, please contact Admissions at (567) 661-7777 or admissions@owens.edu.

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE TEACHERS GO BACK TO SCHOOL TO EXPAND ONLINE-TEACHING SKILLS

Posted on February 1st, 2021

Ultimate goal is improving student success

Ten faculty members from Owens Community College have jumped at the chance to improve their online teaching skills by participating in a 25-week Effective Online Teaching Practices course offered in collaboration with the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE).

The teachers will be joining more than 150 faculty members from 22 Ohio community colleges as they learn and implement equity-promoting, evidence-based teaching practices shown to improve student engagement, persistence, course completion, and learning.

The program is part of a collaboration between the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC) and the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE). ACUE programs in effective teaching practices are based on more than three decades of research that demonstrates effective teaching improves learning for all students.

Considered a graduate-level course, the program consists of 25 modules separated into four blocks—Creating an Inclusive and Supportive Online Learning Environment, Promoting Active Learning Online, Inspiring Inquiry and Lifelong Learning in Your Online Course, and Designing an Effective Course.

Equity-promoting teaching practices are among the hundreds of recommended approaches that faculty learn about and develop in ACUE courses, as demonstrated in ACUE’s Inclusive and Equitable Teaching Curriculum Crosswalk.

Faculty will be teaching classes at Owens while taking the course, which begins this month, so they will use what they learn immediately. Faculty who satisfy program requirement will be awarded ACUE’s Certificate in Effective College Instruction, the only nationally-recognized college teaching credential endorsed by the American Council on Education.

The opportunity is offered free of charge to faculty through a partnership between ACUE and OACC’s Success Center as part of the Every Learner Everywhere (ELE) initiative—and was made possible by Achieving the Dream (ATD), an ELE network partner.

Jack Hershey, president and chief executive officer of the OACC, said the training will teach faculty ways to keep their online courses fresh and impactful.

“We are working hard to level the playing field to close equity gaps among Ohio students,” Hershey said. “Offering this course to faculty is one more way to do that.”

OWENS SELECTED AS THE NEWEST GENE HAAS CNC MACHINING LAB

Posted on October 27th, 2020

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Oct. 27, 2020 – The strong partnerships between Owens Community College, Haas Automation, Inc., HFO Midwest and the Gene Haas Foundation has been taken to the next level as the Gene Haas Foundation recently awarded a $250,000 grant for naming rights to the new Owens Dana Advanced Manufacturing Training Center’s Computer Numeric Control (CNC) Machining Lab. The 7,000-square-foot space will be known as the Gene Haas CNC Machining Lab and will feature several Haas CNC machine tools to prepare students for high-paying manufacturing jobs.

The Haas Foundation grant follows the 2019 gift from Dana Incorporated for which the advanced manufacturing training center is named.

“Our Dana Center, including the Gene Hass CNC Machining lab, demonstrates the college’s commitment to specialized training in advanced manufacturing and related fields,” said Bill Balzer, interim president, Owens Community College. “This generous grant from the Gene Haas Foundation enhances our strong, long-standing partnership to ensure meeting the region’s employment and training needs for many years to come.”

Students pursuing a mechanical major are instructed in drafting, machine design and repair and machining principles, which may include tool and die design and detailing, fluid power applications and CNC applications. In addition to theory and hands-on instruction, students will take courses such as communications, industrial psychology, management and applied statistical process control.

The Gene Haas CNC Machining lab is a premiere educational space for students, incumbent workers, individuals, and companies who seek hands-on training and advanced skills needed by Northwest Ohio’s regional manufacturing-based employers. Additionally, the lab will be dedicated to students pursuing many degrees and certificates, including Applied Engineering Technology, CAD Technology, Skilled Trades Mechanical, Industrial Mechanic Certificate, Tool & Die/Mold Making, Welding and more.

“I’m extremely proud of the evolution of our partnership with Owens Community College (OCC) and congratulate them on being awarded a $250,000 grant by the Gene Haas Foundation!” states Dave Tucker, president of HFO Midwest. “Owen’s Community College was one of our earliest Haas Technical Education Center (HTEC) success stories, going back more than 20 years. Our early adoption of the HTEC program has proven to be a winning proposition for all stakeholders, as well as the manufacturing communities we serve. I’m confident that the new Gene Haas CNC Machining Lab at Owens will prepare students for a great career in manufacturing by educating them on the most popular and advanced CNC machine tools currently in use.”

Owens regional business partners have expressed an urgent need for additional training to meet the predicted 2,118 new jobs in advanced manufacturing over the next five years. The Gene Haas Foundation’s continued investment in Owens will provide additional hands-on training to students and increase skilled personnel entering the workforce.

“Owens Community College is a known pillar in the region for delivering advanced manufacturing training opportunities,” Adds Toni Neary, director of education, Morris Group, Inc., Haas Tower Services. “We have fostered an amazing partnership with Owens Community College including housing our local showroom on campus, working pro-actively in the HTEC (Haas Technical Education Center) network and with annual grants for student scholarships from the Gene Haas Foundation. This takes our partnership to the next level.”

Approximately 200 to 300 credit and non-credit students utilize the CNC lab annually while completing Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) courses.

The Dana Center focuses on expanding and preparing new and incumbent skilled workers in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. The 59,000-square-foot facility features six skilled technology labs, including computer-aided design (CAD), CNC and manual machining, electrical, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and alternative energy, mechanical and pneumatics, and robotics and programmable logic controller (PLC).

For more information on the Dana Center or the Gene Haas CNC Machining Lab, please visit owens.edu/danacenter.

About the Gene Haas Foundation
Founded by Haas in 1999, the Gene Haas Foundation has awarded more than 50 million dollars to deserving charities and educational institutions. The Foundation was formed to fund the needs of the local community and to support manufacturing education. The foundation provides scholarship funds to community colleges and vocational schools for students entering technical training programs, especially machinist-based certificate and degree programs as well as supports youth programs that inspire young people to consider manufacturing careers.

About HFO Midwest
Haas Factory Outlet (www.hfomidwest.com) a division of Midwest Manufacturing Resources, Inc., has been supporting the manufacturing community of Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia for over 25 years as the exclusive distributor for Haas CNC machine tools, rotary products and automation. Offices are located in Springboro (Cincinnati-Dayton) and Twinsburg (Cleveland). Each facility offers showrooms for demonstrations, training and services.

ACADEMY IS FIRST IN NATION TO IMMERSE MID-LEVEL LEADERS IN SUCCESS MODELS

Posted on October 16th, 2020

Participants Include Two from Owens Community College

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Oct. 16, 2020 – Two leaders from Owens Community College have graduated as fellows of the first Ohio Leadership Academy for Student Success.

OACC Recognition Photo Erica Parish, dean, Accreditation and Academic Support and David Shaffer, executive director, Student Services were among more than 40 leaders representing all of Ohio’s community colleges that graduated Oct. 2, 2020, as part of the academy, organized by the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC). It is the first of its kind in the nation to gather mid-level administrators, faculty and staff for a year of leadership development, exchanging ideas and immersion in how to promote student success.

“The fellows learned how to more effectively lead the many changes underway at our colleges – transformational changes – to improve student success,” said Laura Rittner, executive director of the OACC’s Success Center for Ohio Community Colleges. “We brought together people who have different roles at colleges so they could have a deeper understanding of how college leaders can work together to usher in these student success models.”

The president of each of the state’s community colleges could nominate two employees as fellows. They met six times throughout the year for two-day meetings, first in person and then online as the pandemic took hold. Sessions were relevant to Ohio specifically and included aspects of the Aspen Institute’s presidential leadership curriculum. Fellows also worked on projects in small groups between sessions.

“The Ohio Leadership Academy gave me a greater understanding how the budget process and other decisions made at the state-level affect what happens on our campus and in turn affect the success of students,” said Parish. “This experience was worthwhile and something that I would highly recommend to other college leaders.”

The academy was funded by several national organizations, so colleges had minimal expenses to participate. Next year’s academy will begin early in 2021, Rittner said, in the hopes that some sessions can be held in person.

The OACC represents the presidents and trustees of the state’s 23 public two-year institutions that work to advance community colleges through policy advocacy and professional development. For more information, please visit www.OhioCommunityColleges.Org.

OWENS RECEIVES EXCELLENCE IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AWARD FROM OHIO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

Posted on October 6th, 2020

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Oct. 6, 2020 – Owens Community College’s Dana Advanced Manufacturing Training Center has been awarded the 2020 Annual Excellence in Workforce Development by the Ohio Economic Development Association (OEDA). This award recognizes unique approaches to any aspect of workforce development and acknowledges an organization that has developed innovative practices and programs.

“The Annual Excellence Awards showcase the best of the best in economic development and gives members of the profession the opportunity to collectively celebrate the success of the economic development profession,” Jennifer Price, OEDA Executive Director, said.

The Dana Center focuses on expanding and preparing new and incumbent skilled workers in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. The 59,000 square-foot facility features six skilled technology labs, including computer-aided design (CAD); computer numerical control (CNC) and manual machining; electrical; heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and alternative energy; mechanical and pneumatics; and robotics and programmable logic controller (PLC).

“We are pleased to have been recognized by the OEDA for the College’s commitment to workforce development. The Dana Center represents the College’s latest significant investment to directly impact Northwest Ohio’s regional economy,” stated Bill Balzer, interim president, Owens Community College. “A skilled workforce is critical to fill thousands of new and existing jobs in manufacturing and aligned careers throughout our region and the state. The Dana Center was specifically designed to meet these needs now and well into the future. We thank Dana Incorporated and other supporters for joining us in meeting the region’s training needs for the new and incumbent workers for decades to come.”

Owens was nominated for the OEDA award by project architect Tim Swartz from SSOE Group. Headquartered in Toledo with a national and global footprint, SSOE is a leader in aligning education design with workforce needs.

For more information on the Dana Center, please visit owens.edu/danacenter.

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE OFFERS STUDENTS A NEW FAST TRACK PROGRAM

Posted on September 15th, 2020

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Sept. 15, 2020 – Owens Community College is offering a new fast track program that puts students on an accelerated path to earning their degree. The program is designed to provide academic and personal support that aims to close the completion gap by helping students finish their degree or certificate in three years or less from the time they join the program.

“This is a small program designed to have a large impact on a specific population,” said James Jackson, director, Fast Track Program. “We want to help close the equity gap for students who come to Owens with few academic, economic and family resources and help them complete their degree as quickly as possible.”

Fast Track is based on a national model being used at several schools around the country, including in New York, New Jersey and California, to name a few.

Students are required to enroll full time (12 credits) and meet with a success coach twice a month, who will assist them with navigating their degree pathway, campus culture and learning to juggle their competing demands such as family responsibilities and work. Students participating in the program will have access to Fast Track Program activities, events and resources where they will meet fellow students and learn new skills. They will also receive a $50 a month incentive, as long as they remain eligible by meeting the program’s expectations.

Eligible Students must:

Have accumulated less than 24 college credits
Be able to enroll in at least 12 credits per semester
Fill out a financial aid application (FAFSA)
Not currently be a participant in TRIO or other Student Support Services

Placement in the program is limited to 60 students for the 2020-21 academic year and the deadline to apply is Friday, Sept. 25. Interested students should fill out an application and email it to james_jackson11@owens.edu.

OWENS OFFERING NEW SCHOLARSHIP FOR CLASS OF 2020 WHOSE EDUCATIONAL PLANS HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY COVID-19

Posted on September 1st, 2020

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Sept. 1, 2020 – Owens Community College is offering members of the Class of 2020 the unique opportunity to continue their academic path at Owens with the Spring Start: High School Class of 2020 Scholarship. This scholarship is a $500 non-need-based award intended to provide new graduates whose educational plans may have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic the assistance they need to start their journey in the spring and keep their education on track. Eligible students would be awarded a scholarship for the 2021 Spring Semester. An additional $250 scholarship would be awarded for the 2021 Summer semester to those Spring 2021 scholarship recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements.

“With this unique initiative Owens hopes to demonstrate to our area high schools and community the College’s ongoing commitment to increasing college enrollment and student success as part of our strategic plan and our critical role in the northwest Ohio higher education ecosystem,” stated Amy K. Giordano, vice president, Enrollment Management and Student Services.

A recent survey by Junior Achievement and Citizens Bank (COVID Impact Survey) found that nearly half of high school juniors and seniors (44%) say COVID-19 has impacted their plans to pay for college. The survey also found that 30% say that COVID-19 is impacting their expected college start date.

Owens own enrollment trends show that these uncertainties especially affect the direct from high school students from the larger, public urban high schools with these student numbers behind prior year enrollment trends. With this new scholarship, Owens provides students who delayed their college career this additional financial assistance and wrap around support services to help ensure they don’t find themselves falling behind in their educational journey.

“This scholarship, open to all eligible students regardless of need, will reduce Owens already low cost for the 2021 Spring Semester,” said Giordano.

Requirements for the new scholarship are:

Must be a member of the Class of 2020 from our legal service district (Lucas, Wood, Hancock and parts of Ottawa and Sandusky counties) who have not yet enrolled in college or university post-graduation
Must be enrolled in 12 credit hours as of Spring 2021 census date
Must be degree or certificate-seeking
Must have completed FAFSA on file
For Summer 2021 students must be enrolled in six credit hours, and maintaining a 2.0 GPA

If you are interested in this scholarship and would like to learn more, please contact Amy K. Giordano at amy_giordano@owens.edu.

OWENS AWARDED $254,261 TO HELP LOW INCOME, FIRST GENERATION, AND STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES SUCCEED

Posted on August 18th, 2020

Federal Student Support Services grant awarded every five years

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Aug.18, 2020 – The U.S. Department of Education announced that Owens Community College will receive a federal Student Support Services (SSS) grant to help more students succeed in and graduate from college. TRIO SSS has been at Owens Community College since September 2015 and has served over 200 students.

SSS helps college students who are low income, first-generation (those whose parents do not have a four-year college degree) or students with disabilities. The array of services the grant will provide are comprehensive and will include academic tutoring, financial aid advice, career and college mentoring, help in choosing courses, and other forms of assistance. Such services enhance academic success and make it more likely that students will graduate or transfer with the lowest possible debt. Many Student Support Services alumni have gone on to great success, among them Emmy, Tony and Academy-Award winning actress Viola Davis, U.S. Rep. Gwendolyn Moore of Wisconsin’s 4th District and Franklin Chang-Diaz, the first Hispanic astronaut.

SSS began in 1968 and is one of the eight federal “TRIO” programs authorized by the Higher Education Act to help college students succeed in higher education. It recognizes that students whose parents do not have a college degree have more difficulties navigating the complexity of decisions that college requires for success; it bolsters students from low-income families who have not had the academic opportunities that their college peers have had and helps students with disabilities remove obstacles preventing them from thriving academically.

We are excited about the opportunity to continue to serve students at Owens Community College. The grant proposal team consisted of members from across the Owens community: Heidi Altomare, Director of Grants; Dr. Denise Smith, Vice President of Academic Affairs/ Provost; Dr. Anne Fulkerson, Director of Institutional Research and Institutional Effectiveness; Erica Parish, Dean of Accreditation and Academic Support Services; David Shaffer, Executive Director of Student Services and Enrollment Services; and Brandon Gaddy, Director of TRIO Student Support Services. Their input and collaborative work were essential to the grant writing and submission process.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the systemic inequality and financial hardship which keep promising students from succeeding in college. Student Support Services is needed now more than ever,” said Maureen Hoyler. Hoyler is the president of the non-profit Council for Opportunity in Education in Washington, D.C., dedicated to furthering the expansion of college opportunities for low-income, first-generation students, and students with disabilities.

For more than 50 years, the Student Support Services program has made important contributions to individuals and society as a whole by providing a broad range of services to help students succeed. This vital program can and does make all the difference.

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES NAME WILLIAM BALZER INTERIM PRESIDENT

Posted on August 4th, 2020

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Aug. 4, 2020 – Owens Community College Board of Trustees has selected William K. Balzer, Ph.D. to serve as interim president. Balzer will formally assume the interim president position on Aug. 10 following the departure of Steve Robinson, Ph.D. on July 17 to serve as president of Lansing Community College. Robinson served as the seventh president of the College since 2018 after serving as provost and vice president of academic affairs.

“We are very excited to bring Dr. Balzer’s depth of experience to Owens as we search for our next president,” stated Mary Beth Hammond, chair, Owens Board of Trustees. “We will benefit greatly not only from that experience but also the relationships of mutual respect he has built with his colleagues at BGSU and the other four-year institutions that Owens has built partnerships with over the years.”

Balzer has more than 35 years of experience in higher education. Prior to joining Owens, he served as vice president for Faculty Affairs and Strategic Initiatives at Bowling Green State University (BGSU). His responsibilities included providing leadership in the implementation of the collective bargaining agreement with the BGSU Faculty Association, representing the Administration on issues related to the contract, and supporting the professional development of Department Chairs and School Directors at the University. In addition, he had the responsibility of helping support strategic planning and implementation and other strategic initiatives to advance the University.

Following his selection to the interim president position, Balzer said:

“I want to thank the Board of Trustees for both their confidence and the privilege to serve as interim president at Owens Community College. I look forward to working closely over the coming year with the leadership team, faculty, and staff to continue to advance the college’s success in providing students with an affordable and high-quality education to meet their professional and personal goals and enrich the economic vitality of northwest Ohio.”

He earned a Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from New York University, a Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the State University of New York at Stony Brook.

Balzer is a member of the Association of Academic Personnel Administrators, the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology and the American Psychological Society. He has also served as a member of several community boards.

The Board of Trustees is in the process of conducting a search to name a permanent president of Owens Community College.

UTOLEDO, OWENS LAUNCH NEW NURSING EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP

Posted on March 3rd, 2020

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, March 3, 2020 – The presidents of The University of Toledo and Owens Community College will sign a dual-admission partnership for nursing students at 8:30 a.m., Thursday, March 5, in Heritage Hall, Room 123.

The new program — the first of its kind in northwest Ohio — allows nursing students to jointly apply for admission at both Owens and UToledo, establishing a seamless pathway for students to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in registered nursing from Owens followed by a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from UToledo.

“Creating pathways for student success is an important part of Owens’ strategic plan and we are excited for what this dual enrollment agreement with the University of Toledo means for our nursing students,” said Steve Robinson, Ph.D., president of Owens Community College. “This seamless pathway from an associate to bachelor’s degree will help remove another barrier to student success and we are proud to partner with The University of Toledo to make that happen.”

“This is a wonderful way to strengthen our relationship with Owens and provide even more opportunities for students in our region, ensuring their success in the workplace,” UToledo President Sharon L. Gaber said. “Having a baccalaureate degree increases opportunities for nurses, and it is important that we establish these types of partnerships to ensure individuals in our community have the strong educational foundation they need for a successful nursing career.”

The new dual-admission program is designed to give students a sense of belonging at both institutions, while providing unique opportunities and support throughout their education.

Advisers from both Owens and UToledo will work with students from the start to ensure they are taking the courses needed to complete both degrees. Students also will have the ability to participate in UToledo events and programming, and to take courses at UToledo while working toward their associate’s degree at Owens.

Upon completion of their associate’s degree from Owens, students have a guaranteed spot in the UToledo College of Nursing’s online R.N. to B.S.N. program, with no additional application or admission fee.

While a B.S.N. isn’t necessary for licensure, recent surveys from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing have found that more than 80% of employers strongly prefer job candidates with a bachelor’s degree. A number of studies also have shown patients who are cared for by nurses with higher levels of education have more positive outcomes.

The dual-admission program is open to new and continuing students at Owens. The institutions will begin taking applications on May 1.

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE TRUSTEES NAMED TO BOARD LEADERSHIP POSITIONS

Posted on February 18th, 2020

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Feb. 18, 2020 – Owens Community College has named Mary Beth Hammond and Dr. Srini Hejeebu to serve as the chair and vice-chair for the College’s board of trustees. Hammond and Hejeebu were elected to their positions by their fellow colleagues during a recent Owens board of trustees meeting and will serve one-year terms.

“My time serving on the Board of Trustees has been personally rewarding for me. As a community college graduate, I take pride in my contributions to the College and hope that I am making a difference in the lives of our students through thoughtful leadership,” said Hammond. “Our Owens Leadership team is stronger than ever, and I look forward to continuing my commitment along with the rest of the Board and President Dr. Robinson to help power northwest Ohio with skilled, competent leaders for years to come.”

Initially appointed to the board in Dec. 2013, Hammond, currently serves as senior private banker at Fifth Third Bank in Findlay and has more than 30-years of financial experience. She supports multiple non-profit organizations, is a past president of the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce and a graduate of The Jo Ann Davidson Ohio Leadership Institute. Additionally, Hammond is an Athena recipient in Wood and Hancock Counties.

Hejeebu, a Sylvania resident, was also appointed to the board of trustees in Dec. 2013. He is currently a professor of Medicine at the University of Toledo and an internist at the University of Toledo Medical Center.

“I am honored to work with Owens Community College to promote education in our community. I look forward to working with President Robinson and the rest of the Owens board of trustees to help Northwest Ohio train and develop outstanding students in our community,” stated Hejeebu.

The College’s board of trustees is currently comprised of nine community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock Counties who are appointed by the Governor of Ohio for six-year terms.

In addition to Hammond and Hejeebu, board members include Charles L. Bills of Findlay, Jason W. Johnson of Toledo, Karil M. Morrissey of Perrysburg, Edwin J. Nagle of Perrysburg, Richard Rowe Jr. of Findlay, Rita L. Russell of Toledo and Diana H. (Dee) Talmage of Toledo.

For more information on Owens Community College, please visit www.owens.edu.

HIGHER LEARNING COMMISSION REAFFIRMS OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE ACCREDITATION THROUGH 2030

Posted on February 12th, 2020

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Feb. 12, 2020 – Owens Community College has received notification from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) that the academic institution’s accreditation has been reaffirmed through 2030. Owens has been accredited continuously through the Higher Learning Commission since 1976.

“Achieving continued accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission takes hard work and dedication. I am very proud and appreciative of all of our faculty and staff,” said Steve Robinson, Ph.D., president of Owens Community College. This acknowledgment reaffirms our longstanding educational commitment to serving our students and the surrounding communities.”

The HLC is an independent corporation that was founded in 1895 as one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. HLC accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the North Central region, accounting for 19 states. By law, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) relies in part on accrediting agencies to determine eligibility for U.S. government assistance under certain legislation. HLC is among these governmentally recognized authorities and seeks renewal of ED recognition at least every five years.

For more information about Owens Community College, please visit www.owens.edu.

CLASS REPRESENTATIVE STRIVES TO BE HER BEST WHILE REPRESENTING HER FAMILY, VENEZUELA AND LATINO CULTURE

Posted on December 9th, 2019

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Dec. 9, 2019 – Venezuelan native, Maria Guadalupe Lopez Davila has been selected as the Owens Community College class representative and will address the 398 graduates during the 39^th Fall Commencement ceremony Friday, Dec. 13. She is graduating with an Associate of Arts degree in Communication Studies and Cum Laude honors.

The ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center. Admission is free. Wade Kapszukiewicz, Toledo Mayor, will serve as the commencement keynote speaker.

Lopez Davila came to the United States on an F1 student visa following her 2017 graduation from Juan XXIII High School in Valencia, the third-largest city in Venezuela with a population of approximately 1.8 million. She currently resides in Findlay.

She sought an opportunity to learn and grow away from her native country’s struggles. Civil unrest began in Venezuela in 2013 and has continued to present day due to high levels of urban violence, inflation and chronic shortages of basic goods and services, such as food and water. Widespread political corruption is blamed for much of the country’s problems.

“Maria is a humbly bright individual. Every goal that she sets for herself, she goes beyond it,” Lyndsay Dimick, International Students Advisor, said.

Despite taking English classes since first grade, she said her time at Owens has taught her how to communicate daily in English as she focuses on a Spanish-English communications career in business, journalism or social media. She said she is now beginning to dream in English as well.

Her mother, Dr. Morella Davila, OBGYN, and father, Rostin Lopez, a statistician and broadcaster for the Magellan Navigators professional baseball team in Valencia, hoped to attend the ceremony.

“I was raised in an environment with strong family values. I wanted to make my family proud, to show my mom and dad they did a good job with me,” Lopez Davila said.

After graduation, Lopez Davila has applied for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension to her student visa that would allow her to work for a year in a job related to her major before attending a 4-year university.

“I want to be the best of me so that I represent Venezuela and the Latino culture in what I do,” she said. “I have the duty and responsibility to talk about the good that comes from my country.”

Kapszukiewicz was elected mayor Nov. 7, 2017 and took the oath of office on January 2, 2018, becoming the 58th mayor of Toledo.

He received a bachelor’s degree in journalism and political science from Marquette University in 1994 and was named the valedictorian of the College of Communication, Journalism, and Performing Arts. He received a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Michigan in 1996.

Kapszukiewicz is an adjunct professor at Lourdes University, where he teaches a night course in urban policy. An avid baseball fan, Kapszukiewicz had his research published in the Spring 2016 edition of the Society for American Baseball Research journal.

A resident of Toledo since 1973, Kapszukiewicz was born in San Diego on October 30, 1972. He and his wife, Sarah, celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary in 2019. They live in the Old Orchard neighborhood of Toledo and have two children, Emma and Will.

For more information about the ceremony, please visit www.owens.edu/commencement.

OWENS AND UNITED WAY OF GREATER TOLEDO TO HOST EVENT CELEBRATING THE 11TH ANNIVERSARY OF HELP-PORTRAIT™

Posted on November 19th, 2019

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Nov. 19, 2019 – In partnership with United Way of Greater Toledo, Owens staff, students and alumni will gather with community volunteers on Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Owens Learning Center Downtown Toledo to donate their time and skills to create memorable professional portraits for those in need. Walk-ins are welcome on a first come, first served basis from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Photographers, make-up artists, hair stylists and volunteers will gather to take part in this event to mark the tenth annual Help-Portrait worldwide event. In 2008, Help-Portrait began as an idea that transformed into a movement in just three months. The idea behind Help-Portrait is simple: 1. Find someone in need 2. Take their portrait 3. Print their portrait and 4. Deliver their portrait.

Celebrity photographer Jeremy Cowart formed Help-Portrait, a non-profit organization, in 2008 as he contemplated using his skills and expertise to give back to those who may not have the opportunity for a professional photo. The idea is that a photographer has the unique ability to help someone smile, laugh and return their dignity. It is a movement, a shift in photography.

In the last ten years, more than 75,442 volunteers have given more than 381,856 portraits. Help-Portrait is a global movement in more than 2803 locations in 67 countries. The annual Help-Portrait event takes place on the first Saturday of December each year in addition to special events.

This event is made possible through generous contributions made to the Owens Community College Foundation.

The Owens Learning Center Downtown Toledo is located at 1301 Monroe St., Toledo. For additional information or questions, please contact Krista Kiessling at krista_kiessling@owens.edu.

OWENS CONTINUES CAMPAIGN MOMENTUM WITH $100,000 GIFT FOR DANA ADVANCED MANUFACTURING TRAINING CENTER

Posted on October 18th, 2019

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Oct. 18, 2019 – Owens Community College announced today a second major gift of $100,000 from the Owens Alumni Association for the new Dana Advanced Manufacturing Training Center, seven weeks after receiving a $1 million investment from Dana Incorporated (NYSE: DAN). The announcement was made at the Foundation and Alumni Association’s Annual Dinner Meeting, Thurs., Oct. 17. The gift will result in naming rights within the center and will help to establish the Owens Alumni Association Advanced Manufacturing Scholarship.

“The Alumni Association is excited to be part of the Dana Advanced Manufacturing Training Center through this significant investment, while also establishing an endowed scholarship to directly benefit those students seeking degrees and certificates in the manufacturing and skilled trades areas,” said Tom Daniels, president of the Owens Community College Alumni Association. “This facility will be a game-changer for Northwest Ohio, and we are doing our part to help advance the region.”

The modernized facility will transform the College’s ability to meet the region’s most critical economic challenges of developing and training a skilled workforce for manufacturing employers.

Labor data forecasts more than 2,100 advanced manufacturing job openings paying an average annual salary of $63,000 in Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties in the next five years.

Designed to provide highly technical and integrated training in a clean and safe environment conducive to learning, the Dana Center includes amenities such as large windows that allow more natural light, glass walls and polished floors. The facility will also provide corporate partners with access to offices and conference space close to technical labs, classrooms and faculty offices.

“The Owens Foundation greatly appreciates this gift in support of the Dana Advanced Manufacturing Training Center at Owens Community College,” said Philip J. Rudolph, Jr., Chair of the Owens Community College Foundation. “The Owens Alumni Association’s investment in the Dana Center is an investment in future alumni who will continue to power Northwest Ohio’s workforce.”

For more information about the new Dana Advanced Manufacturing Training Center, please visit www.owens.edu/amtc.

OACC AWARDS FORMER OWENS TRUSTEE, EDWARD REITER, THE 2019 TERRY M. THOMAS FRIEND OF COMMUNITY COLLEGES AWARD

Posted on September 6th, 2019

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Sept. 6, 2019 – The Ohio Association of Community Colleges’ (OACC) recently awarded the Terry M. Thomas Friend of Community Colleges Award to former Owens Community College trustee, Edward J. Reiter, as part of the OACC 2019 Excellence Awards program.

Steve Robinson, Ph.D., president, Owens Community College, nominated Reiter for his leadership, passion and efforts to further technical education and help community college students throughout his 55 years of involvement within the communities of northwest Ohio and at Owens Community College.

“Ed Reiter has been a good friend to community colleges and higher education for many decades while serving in several leadership roles at Owens Community College and numerous other community boards,” said Robinson. “His tireless advocacy on behalf of education and specifically community college students has left an impact that will be felt for many years to come.”

Reiter, a resident of Bowling Green, graduated from Bowling Green State University and then served in the U.S. Army from 1962-64. After teaching for several years in area high schools, including at Penta County Vocational Schools. He joined Mid American National Bank and Trust Company and worked his way up through the ranks, eventually becoming chief executive officer of Mid American and then senior chairman of Sky Financial (formerly Mid American) from 1998-2005.

From 1976-1985, he served on the Owens Community College Board of Trustees including a term as chairman from 1979-1981. He also served on the Owens Community College Foundation Board of Directors from 2002-2004 and remains an Emeritus Director. The Edward and Linda Reiter Endowed Scholarship Fund was established in 1984 and has to date awarded 50 scholarships.

Deeply committed to his community, Reiter has long been active in civic affairs, including service on the BGSU Alumni and Foundation boards, the COSI Board of Directors, the Toledo Community Foundation Board, the Toledo Symphony Board and the United Way. In addition to his service at Owens, he is a former Trustee of Lourdes University (formerly Lourdes College) and Davis College. He served on the Boards of the Toledo-area Chamber of Commerce, Cherry Street Mission and the Boys and Girls Club and is a founding member of the University of Toledo Center for Family Business.

The Terry M. Thomas Friend of Community Colleges Award is presented annually to someone who has had a major, positive impact on community colleges in Ohio, the award is named in honor of the OACC’s founding Executive Director.

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE RECEIVES LEAD GIFT FROM DANA INCORPORATED FOR NEW ADVANCED MANUFACTURING TRAINING CENTER

Posted on August 28th, 2019

Owens Embarks on Capital Fundraising Campaign for New $9.6 million, 59,000 Square-foot Facility to Promote Development of Skilled Workers in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Aug. 28, 2019 – Owens Community College announced today it received a $1 million investment from Dana Incorporated (NYSE: DAN) for the new Dana Advanced Manufacturing Training Center. The new facility will help address the shortage in skilled workers throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. The announcement kicks off a capital fundraising campaign to support the initiative.

Focused on increasing training and development of skilled workers in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, the project will renovate a 59,000 square-foot existing facility, which will feature six skilled technology labs, including computer-aided design (CAD); computer numerical control (CNC) and manual machining; electrical; heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and alternative energy; mechanical and pneumatics; and robotics and programmable logic controller (PLC).

“The skills gap is one of the single biggest constraints on growth in our industry and the economy as a whole. According to estimates from the Manufacturing Institute, there will be more than 4.6 million manufacturing jobs in the U.S. to fill by 2028. At current rates, we will only have 2.2 million skilled workers for these positions. That is a gap of over 2.4 million jobs,” said James Kamsickas, president and chief executive officer of Dana. “Dana’s investment with Owens Community College will help to bridge that gap by offering critical training in advanced manufacturing and skilled trades to support the manufacturing base of northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan.”

The State of Ohio has approved $4 million in capital funding and Owens will invest up to $3.6 million of its local dollars to support the project. The capital campaign will focus on securing the remaining $2 million funding gap to complete the project.

“The new Advanced Manufacturing Training Center will house all of our advanced manufacturing and skilled trade programs in one building, offering our students a more conducive environment for learning current and advanced technologies that are critical for the workforce in our region,” said Steve Robinson, Ph.D., president, Owens Community College. “The generous support from a major corporation like Dana demonstrates the trust and confidence we have been able to cultivate through our many years as northwest Ohio’s leader in workforce training.”

The new facility will transform the College’s ability to meet the region’s most critical economic challenges of developing and training a skilled workforce for manufacturing employers.

“Toledo has more robots per capita than any metro area in America, but until today, the area did not have the training partnership between educators and the private sector that can supply the talent needed to grow the modern manufacturing sector of the economy,” said Lt. Governor Jon Husted. “The advanced manufacturing partnership between Owens and Dana is exactly what Northwest Ohio needs to compete educationally and economically.”

For more information about the new Dana Advanced Manufacturing Training Center, please visit www.owens.edu/amtc.

About Dana Incorporated

Dana is a world leader in providing power-conveyance and energy-management solutions for vehicles and machinery. The company’s portfolio improves the efficiency, performance, and sustainability of light vehicles, commercial vehicles, and off-highway equipment. From axles, driveshafts, and transmissions to electrodynamic, thermal, sealing, and digital solutions, the company enables the propulsion of conventional, hybrid, and electric-powered vehicles by supplying nearly every vehicle and engine manufacturer in the world. Founded in 1904, Dana employs more than 36,000 people who are committed to delivering long-term value to customers. Based in Maumee, Ohio, USA, and with locations in 33 countries across six continents, the company reported sales of $8.1 billion in 2018. Having established a dynamic, high-performance culture, the company has been recognized globally as a top employer, with significant honors in Asia, India, Italy, Mexico, and the United States. Learn more at www.dana.com.

OWENS CUSTOMIZED TRAINING HELPS FIRST SOLAR INVEST IN TRAINING ITS WORKFORCE

Posted on August 5th, 2019

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, Aug. 5, 2019 – According to LinkedIn’s 2018 Workforce Learning Report, 93 percent of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their careers. For 19 First Solar employees, this statistic became more of a reality when they earned a state certificate at a special ceremony Friday at Owens Community College after completing customized training made possible through a partnership with Owens Community College and First Solar.

The First Solar employees earned the 34-credit hour Industrial Maintenance Certificate in accelerated time, covering the 13 classes from January to July. A typical student may spend up to 18 months earning this certificate.

Owens customized the educational makeup and delivery of the certificate so First Solar employees attended classes Mondays and Wednesdays in two 12-hour shifts, 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. or 6 p.m. – 6 a.m.

Additional examples of the customized training included utilizing First Solar blueprints in the Mechanical Print Reading class and starting an Electrical Principles class at 2:30 a.m.

First Solar began partnership talks with Owens officials in the spring of 2018, immediately after announcing its building expansion in Lake Township and the need for additional employees.

“When First Solar could not find new, qualified employees, they sent their existing employees to us to upgrade their skills. We were excited to provide career growth opportunities for their manufacturing operators and technicians,” said Rob Kraus, executive director of Owens Workforce Training. “What we did with First Solar, we can do with other companies. We offer multiple pathways to train incumbent and future workers and help them earn valuable knowledge and skills to succeed on the job.”

First Solar has already moved forward with another customized training opportunity, enrolling manufacturing operators in Manufacturing Engineer Technician classes leading to a certificate of completion.

“First and foremost, we would like to congratulate our First Solar associates on this wonderful accomplishment. As we move forward with our vision to lead the world’s sustainable energy future it will be critical to have the most highly skilled associates on the front lines in our manufacturing facilities,” said Jay Lake, manufacturing workforce development and community relations manager, First Solar. “Training programs such as the one that First Solar and Owens Community College have developed will be paramount in bringing this vision to fruition. We are confident that we will be able to provide cost-advantaged solar technology through innovation, customer engagement, industry leadership and operational excellence with the help of our talented workforce.”

Approximately 50 people attended the graduation ceremony in College Hall.

For more information on customized workforce training, please visit www.owens.edu/workforce_cs or call (567) 661-7357.

RAMADEVI KANNAN RECEIVES 2019 ACBSP TEACHING EXCELLENCE AWARD

Posted on July 18th, 2019

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio, July 18, 2019 – Ramadevi Kannan, professor of accounting, has been named a regional recipient of the 2019 Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) Teaching Excellence Award. The ACBSP recognizes individuals each year who exemplify teaching excellence in the classroom.

Professor Kannan was honored, along with other regional recipients, at the 2019 ACBSP Conference in Houston, Texas in June. She received a crystal medallion and a $250 check. In addition, Ms. Kannan was selected from all regional award winners as the recipient of the ACBSP International Teaching Excellence Award for 2019, which was not announced until the awards ceremony at the conference. She was presented with an engraved crystal award and a check for $500.

“Ms. Kannan has a reputation for working very closely with students to ensure they have the tools needed to be successful. She is fair and kind when dealing with students’ issues and she delivers the curriculum to suit multiple learning styles. Furthermore, I recently learned that Rama even went so far as to financially assist a student whose laptop was stolen during the semester. That level of dedication to students is extraordinary, and illustrates her kindness and compassion for helping students succeed,” said Elizabeth “Libby” King, chair, Business Technologies, Owens Community College.

The ACBSP Associate Degree Commission established the International Teaching Excellence Award in 1995 to recognize outstanding classroom teachers. In 2002, the Baccalaureate Degree Commission created a similar award to recognize excellence in teaching at the baccalaureate/graduate degree level. ACBSP is the only specialized body for business schools that presents an award recognizing excellence in teaching, open to application by the entire membership.

“It is more important than ever for business programs to produce graduates who are ready to enter the global marketplace,” said Jeffrey Alderman, ACBSP president and CEO. “ACBSP has a mission to develop, promote and recognize best practices that contribute to continuous improvement of business education. Recognition of teaching excellence is one way we achieve this goal,” he stated.

About ACBSP

ACBSP’s mission is to promote continuous improvement and recognize excellence in the accreditation of business education programs around the world. ACBSP, www.acbsp.org, is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) as a specialized accreditation agency for business education. ACBSP is the only global accrediting body to accredit business, accounting, and business-related programs at all degree levels. ACBSP currently has 1,100+ member campuses in 60 countries. Of those campuses, 942 have achieved accreditation and more than 150 are in candidacy for accreditation. Individual members on these campuses now exceed 13,000. FAQs / Accreditation FAQs