News Releases

Owens Community College Presents Hip Hop Explosion, April 2-3

Posted on March 26th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in expanding their knowledge about the art of hip-hop dance and showcasing their dancing skills are invited to participate in Owens Community College’s third annual Hip Hop Explosion event, April 2-3. The two-day event will feature hip-hop dance instruction from nationally-recognized professional choreographers, as well as a dancing skills talent competition.

Presented by the College’s Dance Express Team student organization, the Hip Hop Dance Explosion event will occur from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day in the Student Health and Activities Center and the Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

Beginning at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 2, attendees ages six and up will have the opportunity to master their dancing skills as part of an instructional program featuring nationally-acclaimed choreographers JaQuel Knight, B-boy Wicket, Lisette Bustamante and B-boy Finesse. Knight is quickly becoming one of the top requested choreographers in the business today and is recognized as one of two choreographers behind BeyoncÈ’s single “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)”, which won the 2009 BET Video of the Year. He also choreographed BeyoncÈ’s single “Diva” and played a role in her 2009 “I amÖ” world tour. In addition, Knight provided instruction to the top 10 contestants for the 2009 American Idol tour. B-boy Wicket is regarded as one of the most influential B-boy professionals in the world for his popular style of B-boying. His professional background includes performing with the famous Renegade Rockers and the Rock Steady Crew. B-boy Wicket recently added hip-hop choreography to his repertoire and has worked with such entertainers as Will Smith, Miley Cyrus and LL Cool J.

Additionally, Bustamante has collaborated with such renowned artists as Aaliyah, Missy Elliot, Gwen Stefani and Madonna as a choreographer and dancer. Her background also includes appearances in several television and film projects and she has been featured in commercials for Gap and Pepsi. Additionally, Bustamante served as the Creative Director for the 2005 Latin Grammy Awards. B-boy Finesse is recognized as a specialist in the art of breakdancing. B-boy Finesse has displayed his talents globally to include winning the 2003 Euro Pro Am while a member of the Renegade Rockers. He also appeared in the documentary film “Planet B-boy”. In addition, local choreographers Matthew and William Hanson will provide expert instruction in hip-hop dancing as part of the program.

Individuals will be able to participate in one of three dance classes, which include junior (ages 6-10), intermediate (ages 11-15) and advanced (ages 16 and up). Participants will learn about an array of styles as part of the instruction ranging from locking to breakdancing. The fee for the two-day instructional portion of Hip Hop Explosion is $75 for the general public, while non-participants can observe the dance program for $20. Attendees can also purchase one-day instructional workshop pass for $45.

In addition to the hip-hop instruction, area residents will have the opportunity to watch some of the best groups in the region showcase their dancing skills as the College hosts the Original Toledo Citiwide Dance Competition on Friday, April 2. The competition will take place from 6-9 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center.

Seven teams are expected to compete in the event, including the Libbey High School, Woodward High School, Waite High School, House of Adonis, Scott High School and Toledo School for the Arts, among others. Routines performed by each team cannot exceed four minutes in length. A panel of judges will critique the participants with the top three teams receiving awards. Tickets for the dance competition are $7 per person.

For more information about Owens’ Hip Hop Explosion event, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

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

Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts Welcomes Nationally-Known Radio Personality Garrison Keillor, April 15

Posted on March 26th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Nationally-known writer and radio personality Garrison Keillor will once again bring his satire and humorous anecdotes to Northwest Ohio as Owens Community’s College Center for Fine and Performing Arts presents “An Evening of Storytelling” on Thursday, April 15.

Keillor’s performance will take place in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center at 7 p.m. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to welcome the return of Garrison Keillor to Northwest Ohio,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Manager for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “Mr. Keillor is the living embodiment of the Midwestern spirit as he shares his steady thoughtfulness, old-fashioned values, traditional songs and dry humor through the legendary radio show “A Prairie Home Companion”. Attendees are in for an unforgettable evening of intellect and laughter that will certainly not disappoint.”

Keillor began his radio career while attending college at the University of Minnesota. Following graduation, he went to work for Minnesota Public Radio in 1969. Five years later, Keillor hosted his first broadcast of the now famous radio show “A Prairie Home Companion”. Since its inception, the program’s popularity has grown immensely and now is heard by more than four million listeners on some 590 radio stations.

Additionally, Keillor is the author of more than 20 books and writes a syndicated weekly column. Keillor is also the recipient of a Peabody Award and a member of the National Radio Hall of Fame by the Museum of the Broadcast Communications. This will mark Keillor’s second appearance at Owens. His first speaking engagement at the College took place in 2003.

Tickets for Garrison Keillor’s performance are $65 for premier seating, $45 for select seating and $25 for general seating. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2787.

Owens Community College Hosts Annual Lincoln Motorsports Welding Night, April 1

Posted on March 25th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s School of Technology, the Northwest Ohio Chapter of the American Welding Society and Lincoln Electric Motorsports are inviting area racing car and truck enthusiasts to the Toledo-area Campus to view an array of competition vehicles and learn more about careers within the welding and automotive industry at the fourteenth annual Lincoln Motorsports Welding Night on Thursday, April 1.

Lincoln Motorsports Welding Night will occur from 6-9 p.m. in the College’s Transportation Technologies Center. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

“Lincoln Motorsports Welding Night is a great opportunity for area residents to check out some of the latest advancements in competition racing as more than 30 owners from around the region showcase their vehicles,” said Jim Gilmore, Owens Chair of Manufacturing and Industrial Operations. “Attendees can also meet individuals from local businesses and ask advice in choosing a career within the welding or automotive industry.”

Vehicles featured at the event will include trucks, stock racing cars, drag racing cars, tractors and drag bikes, among others. In addition, a NHRA/IHRA modified drag car, an ARCA truck and a 305 Sprint car will be on display.

Karl Hoes of the Lincoln Electric Co. will serve as the guest speaker for this year’s event. In addition to his position as an Instructor for Lincoln Electric, Hoes is an accomplished Lincoln Motorsports Welder and performs welding on NASCAR, Nationwide, ARCA and IRL vehicles. Additionally, he is a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association in Wisconsin and involved heavily with the IRL and ARCA Truck series. Hoes will speak at 7 p.m. about various aspects of welding on competition vehicles.

Representatives from local businesses including Toledo Speedway, Norwalk Raceway Park and Attica Raceway Park will be in attendance to offer information. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to experience one of Lincoln Electric’s virtual welders and view welding demonstrations during the event.

Lincoln Motorsports Welding Night is co-sponsored by the Northwest Ohio Chapter of the American Welding Society and Lincoln Electric Motorsports. For additional information on the event, call (567) 661-7729 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7729.

Owens Toledo-area Campus Hosts Registration Rocks in March, April, May and June

Posted on March 25th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area high school seniors are invited to learn about Owens Community College’s many educational opportunities during a fun, music-themed event as the College hosts Registration Rocks in March, April, May and June.

High school seniors can sign up for any day of Registration Rocks which runs from 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 12-6 p.m. on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Attendees are required to RSVP prior to the event. Registration Rocks dates include March 31; April 1, 7 and 14; May 5, 12, 19 and 26; and June 2, 9, 16 and 23.

“Registration Rocks is a great opportunity for prospective students to receive academic advising, as well as register for summer and fall classes all in one fun-filled day,” said Jennifer Irelan, Owens Director of Enrollment Services. “Owens Community College is excited to once again host an event where students can take the first step toward their career aspirations by pursuing a quality college education.”

Throughout each day, students will be able to meet with staff members, take the Owens placement test and pick up important information about financial aid, clubs and student activities, local housing and academic program offerings. In addition, a separate program on learning to support your children in college will be offered to parents who attend Registration Rocks.

Seniors will have the opportunity to win various raffle prizes during each day, including Owens baseball caps, T-shirts, sweatshirts and more. Additionally, attendees will be provided with a free lunch during their visit.

For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7253 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7253. Or, check out the website at www.owens.edu and click on the Registration Rocks icon.

Owens Students to Raise Homeless Awareness During Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City, April 1-2

Posted on March 24th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students will spend a night under the stars to raise homeless awareness as part of the academic institution’s fifth annual Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City on Thursday, April 1.

Beginning at 4 p.m., Owens students will spend 20 consecutive hours camping out on the College’s courtyard lawn between Health Technologies Hall and College Hall on the Toledo-area Campus. The goal of the sleep out is to make more people aware of homelessness occurring in the surrounding communities and to raise funds and collect basic hygienic, cleaning and clothing materials, as well as non-perishable food items to benefit the Sparrow’s Nest in Toledo. The event will conclude at 12 p.m. on Friday, April 2.

“There are many individuals throughout Northwest Ohio who are without the basic necessities to include housing,” said Barb Brotzki, Owens Student Government member and event coordinator. “Owens’ Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City project allows individuals to place themselves in the shoes of those less fortunate for a day and try to better understand what it is actually like to be homeless. These individuals are in need of help and I encourage the community to give back and make a donation to benefit Sparrow’s Nest.”

Owens students and employees and community members are encouraged to show their support by making a monetary donation or dropping off basic hygienic, cleaning, clothing and non-perishable food items. Desired items include deodorant, garbage bags, sandwich bags, toilet paper, powder laundry detergent, printer paper, pens, perfume, hair products, toothbrushes, toothpaste, bleach, towels, dish detergent, scarves, gloves and socks, among others. Donations can be made or dropped off on the College’s courtyard lawn between Health Technologies Hall and College Hall during the Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City event.

The Sparrow’s Nest, which is located in Toledo, is a division of the Cherry Street Mission Ministries. The organization provides emergency relief such as shelter and food for homeless women, as well as helps them build their confidence through the Ready for Life program.

For more information about the Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City event, including donation information, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Owens Alumni Association Accepting Nominations for Outstanding Service Award Celebration Through April 1

Posted on March 24th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is recognizing the tremendous contribution that area police, fire and emergency medical professionals make to Northwest Ohio’s surrounding communities by hosting the seventh annual Outstanding Service Awards. The recipients will be honored as part of a community celebration on Friday, April 23.

The College’s Alumni Association is presently accepting nominations for the Outstanding Service Awards. Area residents are invited to nominate an individual or individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations need to be returned to the College’s Office of Alumni Relations and Special Events by Thursday, April 1. The award is not limited to a single recipient, and the College’s Alumni Association encourages the nomination of more than one person when teamwork was the key element in their success.

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

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

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

For more information about the Outstanding Service Award Celebration, or the nomination process, contact the College’s Alumni Relations and Special Events Office at (567) 661-7410 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7410. Nomination forms can accessed on Owens’ website at www.owens.edu.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Hosts Registration Rocks in March and April

Posted on March 24th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Area high school seniors are invited to learn about Owens Community College’s many educational opportunities during a fun, interactive event as the College hosts Registration Rocks in March and April.

High school seniors can sign up for any day of Registration Rocks which runs from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. on the College’s Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay. Attendees are required to RSVP prior to the event. Registration Rocks dates include March 30 and April 1, 6, 8, 13, 20, 22 and 29.

“Registration Rocks is a great opportunity for prospective students to receive academic advising, as well as register for summer and fall classes all in one fun-filled day,” said Angie McGinnis, Owens Director of Advising on the Findlay-area Campus. “Owens Community College is excited to once again host an event where students can take the first step toward their career aspirations by pursuing a quality college education.”

For more information, or to register, call (567) 429-3141 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3141. Or, check out the website at www.owens.edu and click on the Registration Rocks icon.

Owens Community College Hosts Health Career Expo, March 30

Posted on March 23rd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents and students with career aspirations in a health-related field are invited to learn about and explore various employment opportunities available throughout the region as Owens Community College hosts its annual spring Health Career Expo on Tuesday, March 30.

Sponsored by Owens’ Career Services Office, the Owens Health Career Expo will run from 2-4:30 p.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Throughout the event, individuals can meet with local health care representatives and ask them questions about their professions or how to go about choosing a career path in the health field. In addition, attendees will be able to fill out applications for various employment opportunities.

Owens students and area residents attending the event are encouraged to bring several copies of their resume and to dress professionally in preparation for any impromptu interviews.

Area employers in attendance will include Mercy Health Partners, ProMedica Health System, Lima Memorial Health System, Bittersweet Inc., HCR ManorCare, Blue Sky Therapy, Lutheran Homes Society, Absolute Rehabilitation and Consulting Services Inc., Luther Home of Mercy, The University of Toledo Medical Center and Wood Haven Health Care, among others.

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

For more information, contact the College’s Career Services Office at (567) 661-7501 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7501.

Owens Express Baseball Home Weekend Schedule Features Grand Rapids CC, Mott CC and Jackson CC, March 19-21

Posted on March 19th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Three Michigan community college baseball teams will make their way to Northwest Ohio this weekend as the Owens Community College men’s baseball program entertains Grand Rapids Community College, Mott Community College and Jackson Community College, Friday-Sunday, March 19-21.

The Express will play Grand Rapids CC at 3 p.m. on Friday (March 19), Mott CC at 1 p.m. on Saturday (March 20) and Jackson CC at 1 p.m. on Sunday (March 21). All home games are played at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

Bob Schultz begins his eighth year as Head Coach of the Owens men’s baseball program. In the past seven years, he has guided the Express to many notable achievements, including five conference championships in 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008 and 2009. Prior to his position as Head Coach, Schultz served as an Express Assistant Coach for five years. His Assistant Coaches are Gabe Medina and Tom DeMarco.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball, which was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships.

Early in the 2010 season, Owens has a compiled a 9-3 overall record following games played in South Carolina and a pair of victories against Glen Oaks Community College.

“I am very optimistic about this year’s team,” stated Schultz. “We have 13 veteran returners from last year’s championship ballclub and some extremely talented first-year student-athletes. In order to be successful and compete for another conference title, we are going to need a total team effort. Our expectations remain very high and we anticipate playing a significant role in who wins the conference championship.”

The Express has 13 players returning from last year’s championship team, including Joe Engle of Sidney (Sidney H.S.) and Jared Gibbons of West Carrollton (West Carrollton H.S.). In 2009, Engle, a sophomore infielder, was a First Team OCCAC All-Conference and NJCAA All-Region XII selection. His accomplishments also included being named OCCAC Player of the Year and the team’s Most Valuable Player, among other honors. Engle led the team with 62 hits, 53 RBIs and a .477 batting average. Gibbons, a sophomore infielder, earned First Team OCCAC All-Conference and OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors and was named the recipient of the team’s Most Improved Player award. He collected 49 hits, 31 RBIs and 11 stolen bases and compiled a .445 batting average.

Schultz’s squad also returns Eric Vaughan of Delta (Delta H.S.) and Tim DeCant of Toledo (Lake H.S.). Vaughan, a sophomore pitcher, was a First Team OCCAC All-Conference selection and earned the team’s Outstanding Pitching Award. He compiled a 5-1 record and a 1.83 earned run average and registered 40 strikeouts. DeCant is a sophomore outfielder. In 2009, he was named the recipient of the team’s Coaches Award. Additionally, DeCant was the team leader with 11 doubles, five triples and 31 stolen bases and compiled a .379 batting average.

Returning sophomore student-athletes to the Owens team also include Kevin Dorsten of Huber Heights, pitcher (Wayne H.S.); Neal Linthicum of Perrysburg, pitcher (Perrysburg H.S.); Joe Maurer of Toledo, catcher (Start H.S.); Ben Fox of Huber Heights, infield (Wayne H.S.); Bryan Daniel of Englewood, outfield (Northmont H.S.); Michael Romano of Oregon, outfield (Clay H.S.); Ross Joost of Sherwood, pitcher (Fairview H.S.); Josh Newman of Dayton, infield (Northmont H.S.); and Joel Gattoni of Thornhill, Canada, pitcher (Langstaff Secondary School).

First-year players to the Express men’s baseball program are Blake Schmenk of Perrysburg, outfield (Perrysburg H.S.); Nate Davis of Temperance, Mich., outfield (Bedford H.S.); Jesse Solomon of Huber Heights, infield (Wayne H.S.); Eric Stuart of Mantua, pitcher (Crestwood H.S.); Derrick Garcia of Perrysburg, pitcher (Perrysburg H.S.); Matt Hayes of Pickerington, infield (Pickerington H.S. North); Garrett Busch of Toledo, catcher and pitcher (Start H.S.); Austin Gunn of Delta, infield (Delta H.S.); Ryan West of Englewood, pitcher (Northmont H.S.); Devin East of Neapolis, infield (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Chris Rice of Taylor, Mich., pitcher (Gabriel Richard Catholic H.S.); and Matt Joseph of Sylvania, catcher (Southview H.S.).

Owens Express Softball Opens Home Season Against Muskegon Community College, March 19

Posted on March 19th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s softball will open its 2010 home season against Muskegon Community College on Friday, March 19. The game will begin at 3 p.m.

All home games will be played at the College’s Softball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

The Owens softball program is guided by seventh-year Head Coach Duane Lanham. His Assistant Coaches are Michael Murphy and Kevin Snyder.

Express women’s softball completed the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its seventh Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. Owens has won four out of the last five OCCAC regular season championships (2005, 2006, 2008 and 2009). The Express lost to Lansing Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Owens began its season on the road with games in Florida as part of the program’s annual spring break trip. The Express’ current overall record is 1-5.

“I am extremely optimistic about the upcoming season,” said Lanham. “We have great veteran leadership and a very talented group of first-year players. I expect our depth in pitching, strong defense and continued improvement in our hitting to play key roles in a successful season. This team has the ability and talent to defend our OCCAC conference title and advance beyond the regional tournament.”

Owens has nine players returning from last year’s championship team, including Allison Braun of Celina (Celina H.S.) and Chelsea Lingenfelter of Lima (Lima Shawnee H.S.).

In 2009, Braun, a sophomore infielder, was named First Team OCCAC All-Conference and the team’s Offensive Player of the Year. She led the team with 13 homeruns, which is a new school record. Braun also collected 34 hits, scored 28 runs, had 38 RBIs and compiled a .315 batting average. Lingenfelter is a sophomore pitcher. She compiled an 8-3 record and a 1.48 earned run average.

Lanham’s squad also returns Christine Zappone of Holland (Springfield H.S.), Aerica Susor of Curtice (Genoa H.S.) and Lydia Eckel of Genoa (Genoa H.S.). Zappone, a sophomore infielder, scored 16 runs, had 15 RBIs and compiled a .286 batting average. Susor is a sophomore pitcher. She compiled a 6-3 record and a 2.57 earned run average last year. Eckel, a sophomore infielder, collected 25 hits, 10 doubles and 27 RBIs for the Express last year.

Returning sophomore student-athletes to the Owens team also include Haley Whitcomb of Sandusky, catcher (Perkins H.S.); Jolynn Brossia of Curtice, infielder (Genoa H.S.); Magan Gerding of Perrysburg, catcher (Northview H.S.); and Heather Whitcomb of Sandusky, outfielder (Perkins H.S.).

First-year players to the Express women’s softball program are Kelley Molloy of Toledo, outfielder (Whitmer H.S.); Ashleigh Whitacre of Toledo, outfielder (Central Catholic H.S.); Lindsey Bandeen of Holland, infielder (Springfield H.S.); Matea Rice of Oregon, infielder (Clay H.S.); Bridget Wolfe of Bellevue, catcher (Bellevue H.S.); Brittney Guerrero of Toledo, outfielder (Bowsher H.S.); and Kaela Alexander of Holland, infielder (Springfield H.S.).

Express first-year players also include Keri Seel of Fostoria, pitcher (Fostoria H.S.); Shelby Schuster of Sylvania, catcher (Southview H.S.); Courtney Parr of Castalia, pitcher (Margaretta H.S.); Elizabeth Weber of Elmore, pitcher (Oak Harbor H.S.); Morgan Gray of Clyde, outfielder (Clyde H.S.); Annie DeTray of Oak Harbor, infielder (Oak Harbor H.S.); and Courtney Mowery of Genoa, outfielder (Genoa H.S.).

Owens Findlay-area Campus to Host Clothesline Project Display and Lecture Program, March 18-26

Posted on March 16th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents are invited to join Owens Community College in several educational programs designed to raise awareness about violent crimes against women as the Findlay-area Campus serves as host to a Clothesline Project display and lecture presentation, March 18-26.

All activities are free and open to the public and will occur on the College’s Findlay-area Campus, which is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

Activities will commence on Thursday, March 18, with Findlay’s Open Arms Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services representative Erin Beard providing attendees with a lecture presentation titled “What You Need to Know: The Truth about Domestic Violence, Date Rape and Sexual Assault”. The discussion will begin at 9:30 a.m. in the College’s Conference Center Room 111.

In addition, the Clothesline Project will be available for public display Monday-Friday, March 22-26, in the Commons Area on the Findlay-area Campus. The Clothesline Project at Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is being presented in collaboration with Opens Arms Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services in Findlay.

The Clothesline Project is a visual display that bears witness to violence against women. As part of the public display, a clothesline is hung with shirts of different colors, each representing individuals victimized by a violent crime. Survivors, family members and friends of women victims of violence design shirts to represent a particular woman’s experience or as a tribute to the women they loved who died as a result of an act of violence. Crimes of homicide, rape/sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, incest/child sexual abuse, sexual harassment, battering/assault and attack due to an individual’s sexual orientation are represented within the Clothesline Project.

Designed to educate and raise society’s awareness of the extent of violent crime, the national Clothesline Project display was founded in Hyannis, Mass., in 1990. Locally, the Clothesline Project in Wood County began in 1995 and is committed to helping survivors of a violent act with the healing process, educating the public on violence against women and providing concrete suggestions of how individuals can work to prevent violence.

For more information about the public display or lecture presentation, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Raises Violence Against Women Awareness with Silent Witness Project Display, March 18-26

Posted on March 15th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College is raising society’s awareness of violent crimes against women by serving as host to a Silent Witness Project public display, March 18-26. The public is encouraged to join the campus community and participate in the educational awareness program.

The Silent Witness Project will be available for public display, Thursday-Friday (March 18-26) in several locations on the Findlay-area Campus. The College is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

The Silent Witness Project at Owens is being presented in collaboration with the Northwest Ohio chapter of the Silent Witness Project, which was established by the Women’s Center at Bowling Green State University. Currently, there are 55 silhouette witnesses in the local collection. Owens will display eight of BGSU’s silhouette figures at several locations on the Findlay-area Campus to include the Library, the Student Development Office, the Bookstore, the Executive Dean’s Office, the Testing Center, the Learning Center and the Community Education and Wellness Center.

Bowling Green’s Silent Witness Project is a visual display of free-standing, life-sized red wooden figures that are silhouettes of women who have been murdered in an act of domestic violence during the last 10 years in Northwest Ohio. Each silhouette includes an individual chest plate as well as a detailed story about the person’s life and murder. The goal of the Silent Witness Project is to raise the awareness of domestic murders and violence and remember those who lost their lives as a result of an act of violence.

In 1990, an advocacy group of Minnesota women artists and writers joined together with several other women’s organizations to form the Arts Action Against Domestic Violence in response to 26 women losing their lives as result of domestic violence in Minnesota. Together with several other women’s organizations, the new Silent Witness National Initiative was established with the goal of creating 26 free-standing, life-sized red wooden figures, each one bearing the name of a woman whose life was ended abruptly and violently at the hands of a husband, ex-husband, partner or acquaintance. An additional figure was added to represent those uncounted women whose murders went unsolved or were erroneously ruled accidental. The organizers called the figures the Silent Witnesses.

Locally, the Northwest Ohio chapter of the Silent Witness Project was founded in 2001 by the Women’s Center staff at Bowling Green State University in response to the 2000 murder of a college graduate.

For more information about the public display, call the (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Landscape and Turfgrass Management Program Celebrates 20 Years With Alumni Reunion, March 20

Posted on March 12th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Landscape and Turfgrass Management Program will celebrate 20 years of academic excellence by hosting an Alumni Reunion on Saturday, March 20.

Organized by the College’s Office of Alumni Relations and Special Events along with program graduates, the Alumni Reunion will begin at 6 p.m. and take place at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. The Alumni Reunion is open to all Landscape and Turfgrass Management Program alumni, as well as current and former faculty and staff members.

The event will feature a brief program and historical timeline, highlighted by the introduction of the Landscape and Turfgrass Management Advisory Board members and Owens Associate Professor of Science and Program Coordinator Chris Foley. The evening will also include a grazing dinner and program-specific trivia contests.

“Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is honored to host a community-wide event which celebrates the success of alumni who attended the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses,” said Laura Moore, Owens Director of Alumni Relations and Special Events. “The reunion will serve as a great opportunity for individuals to renew old friendships, network with other green industry professionals and recall fond memories of their college experience.”

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

Tickets for the Alumni Reunion are only $25 per person. For more information about the event or the College’s Alumni Association, contact the Alumni Relations and Special Events Office at (567) 661-7876 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7876, or access Owens’ website at www.owens.edu/alumni.

Owens to Host Ohio Kids for Creativity Region 10 Tournament, March 13

Posted on March 12th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 300 young adults from across Northwest Ohio will have the opportunity to showcase their creative thinking, problem solving and teamwork skills as they compete in the annual Ohio Kids for Creativity Destination ImagiNation Region 10 Tournament at Owens Community College on Saturday, March 13.

The Ohio Kids for Creativity Region 10 competition will occur from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center, the Math/Science Center and the Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

Destination ImagiNation Inc. was founded in 1999 with the overall mission of providing enriching educational opportunities for learners of all ages to explore and discover unlimited creative potential through teamwork, cooperation and mutual respect. The international organization’s main focus is an after-school activity in which students work in teams to solve “mind-bending” Team Challenges and present their solutions at regional, state and global tournaments. Teams are tested to think on their feet, work together and devise original solutions that satisfy the requirements of the Challenges. Destination ImagiNation provides educational programming to more than 100,000 students across the United States and in more than 30 countries annually.

Ohio Kids for Creativity serves as the Ohio affiliate of Destination ImagiNation and consists for 18 separate regions. Region 10 represents Northwest Ohio and comprises Williams, Defiance, Paulding, Van Wert, Fulton, Henry, Putnam, Allen, Lucas, Wood, Hancock, Hardin, Ottawa, Sandusky, Seneca, Wyandot and Crawford counties.

Beginning at 9 a.m., participating teams, consisting of up to seven students, will present their solutions to one of five pre-selected Team Challenges to a panel of judges for the right to advance to the Ohio Tournament at Mount Vernon High School in Mount Vernon, Ohio. Team Challenges focus on a combination of Technical/Mechanical Design, Scientific Exploration and Theater Arts, Improvisation, Structural/Architectural Design, and Theater, Literature and Fine Arts. Teams also incorporate a Side Trip into their competitive Team Challenges, which highlights their special skills and talents. In addition to the Team Challenges, individuals will compete in an Instant Challenge, which requires teams to engage in quick critical thinking with the goal of producing a solution in a period 10 minutes.

The top teams will receive awards with the first place winner in each designated challenge category advancing to the state championship. The Destination ImagiNation Global Finals will occur in Knoxville, Tenn., at the University of Tennessee in late May.

Owens Community College Accepting Applications for Fall Police Academy

Posted on March 11th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Students considering a career in law enforcement can pursue such an opportunity by enrolling in the Basic Peace Officer Academy Training Program at the Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus.

“Owens Community College’s collaboration with the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission provides educational training for thousands of future law enforcement officials throughout Ohio,” said Bob Albright, Owens Coordinator of Public Service Training Programs. “Students who successfully complete the College’s Basic Peace Officer Academy Training Program will become eligible for certification as an Ohio peace officer.”

During the seven-month program, Owens police academy students will take courses in patrol operations, firearms, defensive tactics, criminal investigation, constitutional law and physical conditioning using modern, high-tech police equipment. Participants will receive expert instruction from local police officers, sheriff’s deputies and corrections officers, as well as state and federal agents. In addition, coursework earned by police academy graduates will apply toward an associate degree at Owens in law enforcement.

Local law enforcement agencies where Owens graduates are employed include the Lucas County Sheriff’s Department, Maumee Police Department, Northwood Police Department, Perrysburg City Police Department, Perrysburg Township Police Department, Sylvania City Police Department, Sylvania Township Police Department, Toledo Police Department and the Wood County Sheriff’s Department.

Upon completion of the program, each student will receive a certificate from Owens. Curriculum for the College’s police academy is approved by the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission.

All requirements of the Ohio Revised Code and Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission must be met for certification. Applications for academy classes should be completed and returned to the College by June 17. Police Academy Program classes begin in August.

For more information, or to obtain an application packet, call (567) 661-7621 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7621.

Owens Community College to Host National Student Venison Culinary Competition, March 19

Posted on March 10th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College culinary arts students will put their masterful cooking skills to the test during a competition comparable to the Food Network’s extremely popular “Iron Chef America” television show as the Department of Food, Nutrition and Hospitality serves as host to the national Susan Thurston Venison Culinary Competition on Friday, March 19.

Sponsored by the Cervid Livestock Foundation in conjunction with the North American Deer Farmers Association (NADeFA), the venison culinary competition will occur from 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the College’s Terrace View CafÈ, which is located in College Hall Room 148 on the Toledo-area Campus.

The contest will involve six teams, each consisting of two Owens students, planning and preparing two courses within a three hour time limit for the right to be crowned champion. The two courses will include both an appetizer and entrÈe, which are required to incorporate venison as the primary protein source. Similar to “Iron Chef America”, teams will be provided an array of pantry items, as well as a pre-selected cut of venison meat, to create their masterful delectable delights.

A panel of five judges will oversee venison culinary competition. Two floor judges will monitor team activity and timing from start to finish, while three tasting judges will evaluate plates for presentation, flavor, portion size and demonstration of knife and cooking skills. Judging of the prepared venison plates will begin at approximately 1 p.m.

Cash awards will be presented to the top teams at 4 p.m. on Friday (March 19) at the NADeFA National Conference, which is taking place at the SeaGate Convention Centre in downtown Toledo.

Owens culinary arts students participating in the competition include April Holdridge of Toledo and Martha Everhart of Toledo, Ronni Harteis of Swanton and Rachel Gelacek of Toledo, Charlene Black of Pemberville and Jennifer Cargle of Toledo, Kurt Carnicom of Fremont and Matt Campbell of Millbury, Rebecca Velandra of Ottawa Lake, Mich. and Christine Hopkins of Toledo, and Ron Hipsher of Arcadia and Nicole Compton of Toledo. Venison culinary competition alternates are Octavia Dabney of Toledo and Kathleen Butler of Toledo, and Alex Smith of Toledo and Tony Herrera of Bowling Green.

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

Area Girl Scouts Learn ‘Car Sense’ Basics at Owens Workshop

Posted on March 10th, 2010

Girl scouts (L to R) Amy Johnson of Bowling Green and Pilar Athaide-Victor of Swanton review the manual before attempting to change the tire at Owens’ “Car Sense” day.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Several young women from the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio recently traded their vests and badges in for wrenches and tire gauges as the group rolled up their sleeves to learn about basic car maintenance at Owens Community College’s annual “Car Sense” day.

Founded in 1998 by the College’s Department of Transportation Technologies, Owens’ “Car Sense” program is designed to provide young women with an opportunity to learn about and recognize potential car problems and become familiar with the preventive maintenance associated with their vehicles in a fun hands-on learning environment.

For Sarah Rumple of Perrysburg, the afternoon portion of the “Car Sense” program made an immediate impact from both an informative and hands-on perspective as the 14-year-old can now proudly say she can change a tire.

“I now know how to change a tire if I had too, which is pretty cool,” said Rumple with a proud smile strewn across her face.

Samantha Laramie of Holland, age 14, added, “I learned how to change oil. However, I will need a car lifting thingy (vehicle lift).”

Seventeen-year-old Liza Mulder of Toledo viewed the “Car Sense” day from a different vantage point as a soon-to-be licensed driver.

“I now have a better understanding today about the proper maintenance of a car and what things to look when I’m behind the wheel.”

Owens’ morning session provided attendees with information specific to preventive maintenance, oil changes, tire rotation and balance, emergency kits, brake inspection and where to go for car service, among other topics. The afternoon session placed the girl scouts in the Transportation Technologies Center lab where they participated in such hands-on activities as checking tire pressure with a gauge, completing brake inspections, checking the condition of the windshield wiper blades, changing a tire, and changing a vehicle’s oil and filter, along with other maintenance activities.

All program activities were led by Owens faculty, staff and alumni from the Department of Transportation Technologies.

“This is a great program and a wonderful community service offered by Owens Community College,” said Beatrice Maugeri of Toledo, Girl Scouts of Western Ohio Troop Leader 11501. “The girls are learning a lot of practical skills that will benefit them for years to come. I hope Owens continues offering this program to the area girl scouts.”

The College’s Transportation Technologies programs offer students the opportunity to pursue either an associate degree or a certificate while preparing for careers within the transportation industry. The College currently partners with Caterpillar and John Deere, among others, enabling students to work in dealerships and service facilities while attending classes.

Owens Assistant Professor of Transportation Technologies Randy Rubley assists (L to R) Liza Mulder of Toledo, Sarah Rumple of Perrysburg and Samantha Laramie of Holland in changing an oil filter within a vehicle.

Halley Koenig of Toledo (R) checks the engine and transmission fluid level while Gabi Mulder of Toledo observes her work.

Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Accepting Applications for Fall Police Academy

Posted on March 9th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Students considering a career in law enforcement can pursue such an opportunity by enrolling in the Basic Peace Officer Academy Training Program at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus.

Local law enforcement agencies where Owens graduates are employed include the Findlay Police Department, Hancock County Sheriff’s Department, Hardin County Sheriff’s Department, Henry County Sheriff’s Department and Fostoria Police Department.

Upon completion of the program, each student will receive a certificate from Owens. Curriculum for the College’s police academy is approved by the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission.

For more information, or to obtain an application packet, call (567) 661-7621 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7621.

Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts Welcomes Internationally-Acclaimed Bluegrass Group The Grascals, March 19

Posted on March 8th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Grammy Award-nominated The Grascals will bring their trademark blend of traditional bluegrass and classic county music to Northwest Ohio as Owens Community College Center for Fine and Performing Arts present the contemporary bluegrass group in concert on Friday, March 19.

The Grascals’ performance will take place in the College’s Mainstage Theatre at 8 p.m. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to welcome widely recognized and celebrated The Grascals to Northwest Ohio,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Operations Manager for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “The Grascals’ unique style, which combines traditional bluegrass and classic county music, will certainly leave a lasting impression on concert attendees and undoubtedly rekindle memories of country music’s founding fathers.”

The Grascals began their career in 2004 and have quickly risen to international fame, earning the International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) Entertainer of the Year award in 2007 and 2006. The six-person group also received the IBMA’s Emerging Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for “Me and John and Paul”. Other accolades include the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America’s Instrumental Group of the Year award in 2009.

Arguably, the contemporary bluegrass group’s highest achievement occurred several years ago when they earned Grammy Award nominations for Best Bluegrass Album for their first two critically-acclaimed releases “The Grascals” and “Long List of Heartaches” in 2005 and 2007, respectively.

The Grascals have shared the stage with the likes of Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers and Vince Gill, and have made television appearances on the “Opry Live” and “The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson”. Group members include Terry Eldredge (guitar), Jamie Johnson (guitar), Terry Smith (bass), Danny Roberts (mandolin), Kristin Scott Benson (banjo) and Jeremy Abshire (fiddle).

Tickets for The Grascals performance are $26 for floor level seating and $22 for raised level seating. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2787.

Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts to Host Free Wright State Woodwind Quintet Concert and Clinic, March 18

Posted on March 8th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Rich, multi-faceted songs and musical styles from differing historical periods will reverberate throughout the Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts as the academic institution welcomes the Wright State University Faculty Woodwind Quintet in concert on Thursday, March 18.

Presented by the College’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts, the Wright State University Faculty Woodwind Quintet will perform in the College’s Mainstage Theatre at 11 a.m. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The performance is free and open to the public.

In addition to the performance on Thursday, the musical group will be sharing insightful details about their musical backgrounds as part of a free clinic from 1-1:45 p.m. in the Mainstage Theatre for interested individuals. The public is welcome to attend.

The Wright State Faculty Woodwind Quintet, also known as The Wright Winds, has been an active performing ensemble since 1985. With a focus on developing chamber music programs at Wright State and community outreach, the group features an active repertoire ranging from standard quintet literature to music by new composers. This cross section of styles is a reflection of the eclectic membership of the quintet and their varying experiences and musical tastes.

Since 1989, the group has performed and presented clinics at three Ohio Music Education Association conferences and has toured the British Virgin Islands and Hong Kong, China. Additionally, the Wright State Faculty Woodwind Quintet regularly visits schools throughout Ohio and presents educational concerts that explore concepts ranging from the introduction of woodwind instruments to the challenges of playing in a chamber ensemble. Group members include Dr. Christopher Chaffee (flute), Katherine deGruchy (oboe), Dr. Randall Paul (clarinet), Bill Jobert (bassoon) and Sean Vore (horn).

For more information about the concert or workshop, call (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Foundation and Levis Commons Hilton Garden Inn Present ‘An UnCommon Evening’ Gala, March 26

Posted on March 8th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to enjoy “An UnCommon Evening” of dinner and entertainment in support of the Success Scholarship Program as Owens Community College’s Foundation and the Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons present “An UnCommon Evening” Gala on Friday, March 26.

The black tie optional gala, which will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons in Perrysburg, will feature a delectable dinner prepared by the Hilton Garden Inn’s own masterful on-site catering staff. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in several loud and silent auctions as well as dance the evening away courtesy of an array of uncommon talent and entertainment.

All “An UnCommon Evening” proceeds will benefit Owens scholarships through the Success Program. In February 2008, Owens and the College’s Foundation announced the first stage of its Success Scholarship Program designed to make college affordable for high school graduates with financial need. Piloted at Woodward and Findlay high schools, the scholarship bridges the gap between a student’s financial grant aid and the cost of tuition and fees at Owens. For the 2009-10 academic year, the Success Program has been expanded to include the entire Toledo Public School District as well as Whitmer High School.

Individuals, businesses and organizations are invited to support “An UnCommon Evening” Gala by becoming a scholarship sponsor. Among the various levels of support include the Summa Cum Laude Sponsor ($10,000), Magna Cum Laude Sponsor ($5,000), Cum Laude Sponsor ($2,500) and Dean’s List Sponsor ($1,500). In addition, individual tickets for the event are $100 per person.

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.2 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 25 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

The Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons in Perrysburg is regarded as the premier hotel in the region. The Hilton Garden Inn’s unique setting in Levis Commons, which features an upscale lifestyle center, as well as world-class shopping, dining and entertainment, makes it the perfect hotel for both the business and leisure traveler.

In addition, the Hilton Garden Inn is offering a special room rate of $99 as part of the event. Interested individuals can contact the Hilton Garden Inn at (419) 873-0700 for reservations. For more information about “An UnCommon Evening” Gala, contact the Owens Foundation at (567) 661-7603 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7603.

Owens Students Spending Spring Break Rebuilding Existing Houses in Slidell, La., March 6-14

Posted on March 4th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – A group of Owens Community College students are heading south for Spring Break, not for fun in the warm tropical sun, but to refurbish houses and to bring normalcy back to the residents of Slidell, La., whose lives were devastated by the destructive forces of Hurricane Katrina.

A week of manual labor is awaiting four students as they depart Northwest Ohio at 7 a.m. on Saturday, March 6 from Owens’ College Hall parking lot and head south to Slidell, La. The focus of the trip is to assist in rebuilding existing homes for those in need of housing.

The group of volunteers will spend one week working with Presbyterian Community Outreach of Slidell dry-walling, painting, framing, roofing, tiling floors and installing siding and insulation, as well as many other desired tasks, in existing houses in the Slidell area.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity to go the Slidell area and give the community hope for the future,” said Owens student Damian Maes of Liberty Center.

For Owens student Amber Hage-Ali of Toledo, the trip to Slidell provides a unique chance to help those less fortunate.

“Many of us are very fortunate to live comfortably with all the basic necessities. That is not the case for all individuals in Slidell,” explained Hage-Ali. “I don’t want to take the little things for granted and would rather spend a week helping others than on a sunny beach for spring break.”

Owens student Cary Burnette of Oregon reiterated similar comments by saying “it is our chance to do our part and give back to others.”

Owens students volunteering their time to participate in the humanitarian efforts are Nancy Jones of Toledo, Amber Hage-Ali of Toledo, Damian Maes of Liberty Center and Cary Burnette of Oregon. Also accompanying the students to the Slidell region are Owens Adjunct Faculty member James Oberlander of Bowling Green and Tom Vollmer of Toledo.

Group members are expected to return to Northwest Ohio and Owens Community College on Sunday, March 14.

Area Girl Scouts Learn about ‘Car Sense’ at Owens Community College Workshop, March 6

Posted on March 4th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are probably used to buying their famous cookies, however, soon individuals might want to consult them about car troubles. Eleven young women from the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio and their troop leaders will roll up their sleeves and learn about basic car maintenance as Owens Community College presents a “Car Sense” program on Saturday, March 6.

Founded in 1998, the Owens’ “Car Sense” program will occur from 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the Transportation Technologies Center on the Toledo-area Campus. The College is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again provide a community outreach program where young women have the opportunity to learn about and recognize potential car problems and become familiar with the preventive maintenance associated with their vehicles in a fun hands-on learning environment,” said Tracy Campbell, Owens Chair of Transportation Technologies.

In the morning from 9:30-11:30 a.m., attendees will learn about preventive maintenance, oil changes, tire rotation and balance, emergency kits, brake inspection, and where to go for car service, among other topics. The afternoon session, occurring from 12:30-3 p.m., will place the girl scouts in the Transportation Technologies Center lab where they will participate in such hands-on activities as checking tire pressure with a gauge, completing brake inspections, replacing windshield wiper blades, changing a tire, and changing a vehicle’s oil and filter, along with other maintenance.

Owens faculty, staff and alumni from Transportation Technologies will lead the program’s activities and provide firsthand insight into the various topics discussed.

Local Schools Showcase Talents at Owens Tractor Troubleshooting Contest

Posted on March 3rd, 2010

Penta Career Center students’ (L to R) Brian Goris of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.) and Hunter Hepler of Elmore (Woodmore H.S.) attempt to repair a tractor malfunction during the FFA District I Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics Contest at Owens.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Thirteen area high schools recently put their knowledge of tractors to the test during competition in the 17th annual FFA District I Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics Contest at Owens Community College.

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

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

“Owens Community College is proud to once again partner with area high schools and provide an opportunity for students to showcase their impressive talents specific to the agricultural industry,” said Tracy Campbell, Owens Chair of Transportation Technologies. “The participating high schools should be very proud of their students’ efforts as they competed at an extremely high level and certainly demonstrated their expert knowledge of tractors.”

The district championship went to Rodney Schafer of Montpelier and Brandon Johnston of Wauseon (Four County Career Center), while Brian Goris of Bowling Green and Hunter Hepler of Elmore (Penta Career Center) finished in second place.

Other students and high schools involved in the competition and their order of finish were Bret Braun of Oak Harbor and Dustin Brough of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.), J.R. Laborie of Bloomdale and Tom Elgin of Bloomdale (Elmwood H.S.), Austin Bok of Hicksville and Tyler Rosebrock of Defiance (Fairview H.S.), Codi Bird of Defiance and Brandon Ordway of Continental (Ayersville H.S.), Josh Main of Weston and Kyle David of Bowling Green (Otsego H.S.), Aaron Cramer of Bowling Green and Michael Pahl of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.), Bryan Cayka of Luckey and Adam Wolf of Bowling Green (Eastwood H.S.), Kile Hug of Edon and Joey Brown of Edon (Edon H.S.), Devin Cape of Edgerton and Ben Riehle of Edgerton (Edgerton H.S.), Stephan Clark of Genoa and Nik Skaff of Genoa (Genoa H.S.) and Darien Ellinwood of Liberty Center and Ethan Wiechers of Liberty Center (Liberty Center H.S.).

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

Owens’ Diesel Technology program offers students the opportunity to pursue either an associate degree or a certificate while preparing them for careers in operations, maintenance, service, testing, diagnosis and development of truck and heavy equipment. Students interested in a career as a professional agricultural equipment service technician can pursue an associate degree through the College’s John Deere Agricultural Technician program. Owens is one of 23 academic institutions in the United States and Canada, and the only school in Ohio, to offer the John Deere Agricultural Technician program.

Owens Community College to Host Free Career Planning Workshops, March 15-26

Posted on March 3rd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to explore career options and gain advice on making the first steps toward a new career as Owens Community College presents several free workshops titled “Discovering Career Choices” in March.

Presented by Owens’ Career Services Office, the one-hour seminars will occur in the College Hall Career Center Room 151 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The workshops are free and open to the public, however, registration is required due to space limitations.

Four separate career workshops will be available for area residents, which will occur on Monday, March 15 from 3:30-4:30 p.m.; on Wednesday, March 17 from 5:30-6:30 p.m.; on Tuesday, March 23 from 8-9 a.m.; and on Friday, March 26 from 12-1 p.m.

“The ‘Discovering Career Choices’ workshop is a great opportunity for area residents to receive assistance in matching their career-relevant interests and abilities with potential career fields that maximize their talents,” said Dora Bensch, Owens Career Education Specialist. “Owens Community College is proud to provide such a community outreach service and a resource for individuals seeking advice and guidance in both the selection and pursuit of a career path.”

During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to explore various career paths by participating in a personal interest inventory program. This inventory will match identified interests with occupations and what possible educational majors they could pursue at an academic institution. Additionally, attendees will receive career-specific literature and website information from Career Services representatives to further research potential occupations.

For more information, or to register, contact the College’s Career Services Office at (567) 661-7501 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7501.

Owens Express Men’s Basketball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, March 5-7

Posted on March 2nd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s basketball team begins its postseason run toward a third national title as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII (District 7) Men’s Basketball Championship this weekend. The tournament will be held at Lakeland Community College in Kirtland, Friday-Sunday, March 5-7.

Coached by Kevin Skaggs, the Express will take a 17-13 overall record into the single elimination tournament where they will battle Sinclair Community College (21-9) at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 5. If they would advance, the Express will play at 12 p.m. on Saturday, March 6 against Cincinnati State Community College (22-8) in the semifinals. The championship game will occur at 12 p.m. on Sunday, March 7.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Lakeland Community College (19-10), Columbus State Community College (22-6), Edison State Community College (15-11) and Cuyahoga Community College (14-11).

In addition, Skaggs’ team finished in fourth place in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (8-6 record).

The NJCAA Division II Men’s Basketball National Championship will be held March 16-20 in Danville, Ill.

Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus Hosts Northwest Ohio’s Largest College Preview Night, March 10

Posted on March 2nd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – More than 100 public and private colleges and universities from Ohio and the surrounding states will visit the Toledo area as Owens Community College hosts Northwest Ohio’s largest College Preview Night on Wednesday, March 10.

Established in 1987, the event will occur from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and is sponsored by the counseling staffs of 20 local high schools and Owens. College tables will be set up in Owens’ Student Health and Activities Center and presentations will be held in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to College Preview Night is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

“College Preview Night is a great chance for high school students and their parents, as well as adult students, to visit with admissions representatives and learn about the various educational opportunities available at colleges and universities throughout the surrounding region,” said Jennifer Irelan, Owens Director of Enrollment Services. “Owens Community College is proud to once again work with area high schools in sponsoring an event that will aid students in choosing their career path.”

The event will provide prospective students the opportunity to visit with various college and university representatives and pick up important information about admission requirements. Individuals will also learn about financial aid, student activities, academic program offerings, athletic eligibility and accommodations for students with special needs.

Informational sessions will also occur throughout the evening. Attendees can hear presentations on financial aid, online financial aid resources, planning for college, preparing for the ACT test, preparing to transfer from one academic institution to another and admission to military academies and the ROTC.

In addition, representatives from local financial institutions will be present to provide information on student loans and high school counselors will be available during the event to answer general college questions. Representatives of the various military branches will also be on hand to discuss admission to military academies, the ROTC and other scholarship-related programs.

For more information on College Preview Night, call (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Hosts Greater Hancock County College Night, March 8

Posted on February 26th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – More than 80 colleges and universities from Ohio and the surrounding states will visit the Findlay area as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus hosts Greater Hancock County College Night on Monday, March 8. The event will occur from 6:30-8 p.m.

The counseling staffs of nine local high schools in the surrounding area are co-sponsoring the annual event, which is being held at the Owens Findlay-area Campus Community Education and Wellness Center. The College is located on Bright Road in Findlay. Admission to the college preview night is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

“Greater Hancock County College Night is a great opportunity for prospective college students to visit with admissions representatives and learn about the various educational choices available throughout the surrounding region,” said Angie McGinnis, Owens Director of Advising on the Findlay-area Campus. “Owens Community College is proud to once again work with area high schools in sponsoring an event where students can begin to choose their career path.”

The event will provide high school students and their parents, as well as adult students, the opportunity to visit with various college and university representatives and pick up important information about admission requirements. Individuals will also learn about financial aid, student activities, academic program offerings and accommodations for students with special needs.

Informational sessions will occur throughout the evening. Attendees can hear presentations on financial aid, planning for college, preparing for the ACT test and career trends of the future.

In addition, military branches will be on hand to discuss admission to military academies, the ROTC and other scholarship-related programs. High school counselors will also be present during the event to answer general college questions.

For more information on Greater Hancock County College Night, contact the Owens Findlay-area Campus at (567) 429-3509 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3509.

Owens Community College Closed for Mid-Semester Break, March 5-7

Posted on February 25th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will be closed Friday-Sunday, March 5-7 for Mid-Semester Break. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed for business.

Administrative offices will be open again on Monday, March 8, while classes will resume on Monday, March 15.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery Welcomes ‘Passion for Life, Passion for Art’ Exhibit, March 1-25

Posted on February 25th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College welcomes Findlay’s Kan Du Studio to the Findlay-area Campus as the Library Gallery features an array of original artwork from local artists in an exhibit titled “Passion for Life, Passion for Art”, March 1-25.

In addition, the College will host a reception and gallery talk for the Kan Du Studio artists on Tuesday, March 2 from 5-7 p.m. The reception, which is free and open to the public, will take place in the Findlay-area Campus Library. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus is proud to partner with the Kan Du Studio and showcase their artists’ talents in the Library Gallery,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “The ‘Passion for Life, Passion for Art’ show is purely a delight. The artists’ joy in making art can be seen in every piece. Knowing that many pieces are the product of collaboration between artists lends a special flavor to the show, too. Different ideas and techniques meld into something wonderful, and the primary colors and imaginative themes will certainly bring a smile to exhibit attendees.”

The Kan Du Studio was founded in 2007 with the overall focus of uniting people with different abilities, giving them the chance to express, communicate and connect with the community through the arts. Located at Blanchard Valley Industries in Findlay, the Kan Du Studio is housed within a vocational workshop and provides experiential learning opportunities to area residents throughout Hancock County.

During its brief time in existence, the Kan Du Studio has played a significant role in helping artists generate individual income and promoting self-determination, positive community interaction, self-advocacy and self-worth. The Kan Du Studio is an extension of Blanchard Valley Center and supported by Hancock County Board of MRDD.

Artistic expressions featured in the “Passion for Life, Passion for Art” exhibit range from paintings to 3-D metal sculptures. Individual artworks are the creations of Mike Baumgardner, Joe Thompson, Jude Fleck, Connie Evanoff, Rick Smith, Janice Fitzpactrick, Rick Kinn, John Walsh, Ashley Aukerman, Brook West and Molly Constien. The 3-D sculptures are collaborative efforts engaging many Kan Du Studio artists.

The Findlay-area Campus “Passion for Life, Passion for Art” exhibit is being presented in conjunction with the celebration of March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

Admission to the Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Fridays from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. For more information, contact the Library at (567) 429-3088 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3088.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Hosts NJCAA Region XII Tournament, March 5-7

Posted on February 25th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s basketball team begins its postseason run toward a national title as the Express compete in and host the NJCAA Region XII (District H) Women’s Basketball Championship, Friday-Saturday, March 5-7.

Teams participating in the tournament will include Schoolcraft College, Macomb Community College, Delta College, Owens Community College, Lakeland Community College, Oakland Community College, St. Clair County Community College and Henry Ford Community College.

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express has amassed an overall record of 25-3 and is 11-1 (first place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. Llanas’ team is currently ranked No. 6 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball poll.

The Express will play Macomb (11-13) at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 5 in quarterfinal action. Other quarterfinal games on Friday will feature St. Clair County (21-6) versus Delta (14-13) at 3 p.m., Lakeland (20-7) versus Oakland (17-10) at 5 p.m. and Schoolcraft (26-1) versus Henry Ford (4-23) at 7 p.m.

The winner of the Owens/Macomb game will play the St. Clair County/Delta winner at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 6. The other semifinal game on Saturday will feature Lakeland/Oakland versus Schoolcraft/Henry Ford and begin at 4 p.m. The championship game will occur at 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 7.

Later today (Feb. 25), Owens travels to Cincinnati to face its archrival Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (18-9, 10-2). The game begins at 4 p.m. Owens will conclude the regular season portion of its schedule with an away contest at Piqua against Edison State Community College (18-6, 7-5) on Saturday, Feb. 27. The game start time is 1 p.m.

The NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball National Championship will be held March 17-20 in East Peoria, Ill.

Tickets for the NJCAA Region XII Women’s Basketball Championships are $5 per person. Children ages 5 or under are admitted free, as well as Owens students, employees and alumni with valid College identification. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Arrowhead Park Learning Center Announces Free Spring ‘QuickStart to College’ Program, March 1 – May 5

Posted on February 25th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to explore career options and gain advice on making the first steps toward a college education as the Owens Community College Arrowhead Park Learning Center presents a free “QuickStart to College” program, March 1 – May 5.

The free program, which is designed for first generation college attendees, low wage workers, underemployed and undereducated adults in mind, will take place on Mondays from 12-2 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 1:50 p.m. at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

Owens’ free “QuickStart to College” comprehensive program features an array of educational initiatives, including academic preparation, coaching and embracing the expectations of college-level studies. Additionally, students will participate in activities designed to promote enhanced learning and develop necessary study and life skills for college success. Individuals will also learn and obtain an in-depth understanding of the language, culture and resources of Owens through the program, as well as receive information specific to the financial aid process and academic placement testing. Free math, reading and writing tutorials are also offered to program participants.

In addition, each attendee will be provided an Owens Student Success mentor to assist them throughout the “QuickStart to College” program. Each student will also receive three college credit hours toward an Owens education upon course completion.

Funding for Owens’ academic initiative is being made possible through a three-year $522,200 grant from the Lumina Foundation for Education, which is an Indianapolis-based private foundation dedicated to expanding access to and success in education beyond high school. Owens is one of only three academic institutions statewide to receive funding in 2008 for the program. The other two colleges are Rhodes State College in Lima and Zane State College in Zanesville.

In order to be eligible for the free “QuickStart to Success” program, individuals must have obtained their high school Diploma or GED. A mandatory orientation will take place in conjunction with the first day of class on March 1. For more information about the “QuickStart to College” program, call (567) 661-2990 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2990.

New Owens Community College Concert Band Music to Ears of Students, Employees and Community Members

Posted on February 25th, 2010

Owens Adjunct Faculty member Fred Dias of Genoa leads the new Concert Band class during a recent rehearsal.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The musical sounds of trumpets, clarinets, trombones, flutes and percussion can be heard reverberating throughout the halls of Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts on Mondays and Wednesdays during the current spring term as students, employees and community members alike make sweat harmonious sounds in the academic institution’s new Concert Band class.

“Owens Community College’s Fine and Performing Arts is proud to offer a musical program which positively impacts both our students and the community,” said Doug Mead, Owens Chair of Fine and Performing Arts. “The new Concert Band class provides an opportunity to bring individuals of all ages together, to learn from each other and to experience the joy of music.”

Under the direction of Owens Adjunct faculty member in Fine and Performing Arts Fred Dias of Genoa, the new 40-member Owens Concert Band class, which comprises students, employees and community members, rehearses twice a week in the College’s Studio Theatre. The group reads and plays new music ranging from Broadway show songs to marches during each class for sight reading purposes. Additionally, the Concert Band is currently preparing for public concerts taking place in late February and early May.

“I am really pleased with this group and their musical talents,” said Dias, who himself plays clarinet, saxophone and flute and was a 20-member of the Ohio Air National 555th Air Force Band. “This musical program is a win-win for the community and students and I look forward to growing the class and opportunities for individuals who have a passion for music.”

Forty individuals comprise the new Concert Band class, including Owens student and percussionist Lydia Watson of Oak Harbor.

For 85-year-old Clayton Weis of Millbury, the opportunity to continue playing music was too good to pass up.

“I started playing trumpet in the fifth grade,” explained Weis after a recent rehearsal. “That was a long time ago. I’m really enjoying the chance to perform with Owens students and even learning a thing or two from them. You’re never too old to learn.”

Owens student Miranda Molyet, 19, of Fremont echoed Weis’ comments about the enjoyment and camaraderie of the new Concert Band.

“I love to play music and it’s always been a big part of my family as my mom, dad, brother and two sisters are all musicians,” stated Molyet, a Fremont St. Joseph Catholic High School graduate who plays flute. “The Owens Concert Band class is amazing. This is a great opportunity to continue playing and to learn from many accomplished musicians.”

The Concert Band’s first musical performance will take place this coming Sunday, Feb. 28. The free concert will start at 2:30 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Musical selections presented by the Owens Concert Band during the performance will include “Hosts of Freedom March”, “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy”, “America on Parade”, “Broadway One Step”, “The Music Man”, “Bravura”, “An Irish Rhapsody”, “National Emblem March”, “South Pacific” and “Radetzky March”.

The group’s other concert will occur on Sunday, May 2 in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre. The performance will begin at 2:30 p.m.

Students involved in the College’s Concert Band include Crystal Berube of Toledo (flute), Elizabeth Brandeberry of Fostoria (flute), Miranda Molyet of Fremont (flute), Elizabeth Williamson of Perrysburg (flute), Lydia Watson of Oak Harbor (percussion), Tina Brandeberry of Fostoria (clarinet), Erin Kiel of Toledo (clarinet), Christina Little of Maumee (clarinet), Adam Sammons of Elmore (alto saxophone), Benjamin Bushong of Bowling Green (trumpet), Jeff Calbert of Toledo (trumpet), Dana Haubert of Upper Sandusky (trumpet), Paralea Ramirez of Bowling Green (trumpet) and Travis Geiman of Maumee (trombone).

Community members participating in the musical group are Annette Brewster of Martin (percussion), Brandon Grant of Toledo (percussion), Janet Clapsaddle of Genoa (flute), Ron Miller of Oregon (percussion), Barbara Rollins of Genoa (percussion), Kathy Applehans of Graytown (clarinet), Bill Bergman of Genoa (clarinet), Greg Thomas of Toledo (clarinet), Jane Zbinden of Toledo (clarinet), Jan Miller of Oregon (alto saxophone), Brenda Searle of Maumee (alto saxophone), Troy McCarthy of Toledo (French horn), John Wilson of Northwood (French horn), Jeff Brenneman of Toledo (trumpet), Gloria Buck of Walbridge (trumpet), Jim Myers of Archbold (trumpet), Clayton Weis of Millbury (trumpet), John Harris of Oak Harbor (baritone), Nick Applehaus of Graytown (trombone), Bill Bachar of Moline (trombone), David Beekley of Holland (trombone) and Brian Saltz Jr. of Mansfield (trombone).

Owens employees involved in the new Owens Concert Band class include Chair of Fine and Performing Arts Doug Mead of Perrysburg (oboe), Adjunct Faculty member in Communications, Humanities and Languages Jim Toppin of Whitehouse (tuba), Assistant Professor of Fine and Performing Arts Michael Sander of Toledo (timpani) and Adjunct Faculty member in Fine and Performing Arts Fred Dias of Genoa (conductor).

For more information about the new Owens Concert Band class or its performance schedule, contact the College’s Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Acclaimed Cartoonist Jerry King to Speak at Owens, Feb. 26

Posted on February 23rd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to gain insight into the fun, light-hearted world of cartoons as award-winning cartoonist Jerry King presents a free lecture at Owens Community College on Friday, Feb. 26.

Presented by the Department of Fine and Performing Arts, King’s lecture presentation will occur at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Room 216 on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

King is regarded as one of the most published, prolific and versatile cartoonists within the industry. His work has appeared in thousands of greeting cards, magazines, books, newspapers, newsletters and children’s books, highlighted by “Better Homes and Gardens”, “Golf Digest”, “The Saturday Evening Post” and “Woman’s World”, among many others. Additionally, King has created nearly 2,000 greeting cards for over 25 different companies, including American Greetings, Gibson Greetings Inc. and NobleWorks Inc.

Aside from greeting cards and magazines, King is the author and illustrator of seven nationally published cartoon books. He has also illustrated 10 children’s books and has provided illustrations for numerous children’s publications.

After serving three years in the U.S. Army as a medic, King went on to graduate from The Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in English.

For additional information about the free lecture, call (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery Welcomes ‘A Family Affair’ Art Exhibit, Feb. 23 – March 27

Posted on February 23rd, 2010

Art featured in Owens’ “A Family Affair” exhibit includes the Krueger’s interactive “Step Right Up” work, which invites attendees to enter, pose and be photographed. Representing fantasy masquerading as reality, “Step Right Up” exemplifies the common thread showcased in their artwork.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Mixed media and social commentary are intertwined within the latest artwork at Owens Community College as nationally recognized artists and family members Matthew, Susan and Lou Krueger bring various digital prints, fibers, photography, paintings, drawings and sculptures to life in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery as part of an exhibit titled “A Family Affair”, Feb. 23 – March 27. The Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is located in Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

A free exhibit reception will take place on Friday, Feb. 26 from 6-8 p.m. in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. In addition, Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts will serve as host to a lecture by guest artists Matthew, Susan and Lou Krueger on Thursday, March 18 at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre Room 111.

“Owens Community College is honored to welcome Matthew, Susan and Lou Krueger and their amazing artistic talents to the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Part-Time Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “Matthew, Susan and Lou find that the use of mixed media and narrative acts as a common thread in the fabric of their artwork. Individually or in collaboration, their imagery embraces an eclectic mix of processes and technologies that examine the spaces between truth and illusion. Taking the final form of digital print, fibers, photography, painting, drawing or sculpture, their work will encourage exhibit attendees’ imagination to soar.”

Combining vivid photographs with his mastery of Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Maya and Illustrator technology, Matthew is known for creating large scale prints which investigate the connections between seemingly disparate phenomena. The Cleveland resident, and son of Susan and Lou, has garnered several accolades for his work and has appeared in exhibits throughout Midwest region, including at The Toledo Museum of Art. His various artistic expressions in “A Family Affair” exhibit will highlight far-fetched connections where imagination triumphs and forces the viewer to question the understanding of reality.

Susan’s artistic expressions focus on fiber collages, which often involves any combination of drawing with wax on fabric, bleaching, dyeing, felting, quilting, embroidery and beading. The contrast between the precision of a machine and the organic nature of the hand work serves as a focal point in the Bowling Green resident’s (the wife of Lou) artwork. Many of Susan’s fiber collages have been motivated by her life experiences and many modern day issues such as the war in Iraq and Hurricane Katrina, among other topics. Susan has taught art courses at Syracuse University and Bowling Green State University, and has received several awards including Emerging Artist honors at Quilt National, which is regarded as the premier exhibition of contemporary art quilts in the United States.

Lou’s primary goal as an artist is to showcase magic in his artwork and to serve as an intermediary between the physical world and the world of grand illusion. The Bowling Green resident’s (the husband of Susan) photographs, drawings and paintings are based as much on fiction as on fact and emphasize a world filled with various mixed messages that bombard society on a daily basis. The Bowling Green State University faculty member’s photographic narratives have appeared in numerous regional and national exhibitions, both juried and by invitation. His work is also included in several public and private collections.

Admission to the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays; from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; and from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturdays. For additional information, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2721 or (567) 661-2721.

Owens Community College to Host Community Blood Drive, March 2

Posted on February 23rd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents can help in saving the lives of their neighbors as Owens Community College and the American Red Cross host a community Blood Drive on Tuesday, March 2.

The Blood Drive will occur from 12-6 p.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The Blood Drive will be staffed by Owens surgical technologist students.

Qualified donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and not have given blood within 56 days prior to their donation. In addition, individuals should feel well the day of the Blood Drive, be in general good health and have a picture ID (preferably a driver’s license). The Blood Drive is open to Owens employees and students, as well as area residents. Walk-ins are welcome.

The American Red Cross Western Lake Erie Region, which comprises Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, needs to collect approximately 85,000 pints of blood each day to serve patients in 23 area hospitals.

Donors will be provided snacks and drinks before and after their donation. For more information, contact the College’s School of Health Sciences at (567) 661-7206 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7206. Interested parties are encouraged to make an appointment by registering on the website at www.redcrossblood.org and entering the sponsor code OWENSCCPERRYSBURG or calling the above number.

Owens Community College Family Fun Sundays Presents ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ Performance, March 7

Posted on February 22nd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Community members of all ages are invited to join the bilingual adventures of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” as Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts presents the theatrical version of a timeless favorite in both spoken English and American Sign Language on Sunday, March 7.

The performance, which will be held in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre at 2 p.m., is the third in the series of three Family Fun Sundays presented by Owens. The College is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again welcome Sign Stage on Tour to Northwest Ohio and their unique version of the classical tale ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ on stage,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Operations Manager for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “The production is sure to please attendees of all ages as Sign Stage on Tour affords individuals the opportunity to experience theatre in American Sign Language and spoken English.”

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is presented by the national touring group Sign Stage on Tour through Windwood Productions, a theatrical company comprised of deaf and hearing stage specialists. Sign Stage on Tour, which performs an array of theatrical plays worldwide in both spoken English and American Sign Language, is dedicated to presenting educational programs that integrate bilingual education with theatre. Previous performances by the theatre group include “Dr. Dolittle”, “Treasure Island” and “Matilda”.

According to Barkan, “When a character speaks on stage it occurs in American Sign Language, however, a spoken voice will be heard at the same time. The blend of languages allows individuals to experience the spatial beauty of American Sign Language as the actors move their hands and bodies, as well as hear the spoken dialogue so that audience members, both deaf and hearing, are able to fully enjoy the adventurous tale of Charlie Bucket and his trip to Mr. Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory.”

The troupe has performed in numerous venues and festivals worldwide highlighted by appearances at DeafWay II in Washington, D.C., the Eighth International Pantomime Festival of the Deaf in Brno, Czechoslovakia, and the Jerash Festival in Amman, Jordan.

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” tells the story of five lucky children winning the chance of a lifetime to tour Mr. Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory. Once inside, Charlie and the other four winners witness amazing wonders ranging from sweat tasting wallpaper to a chocolate waterfall. The adaptation of the Sign Stage on Tour’s theatrical production is based on the book by internationally recognized author Ronald Dahl.

Tickets for “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” are $15 and all seats are general admission. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2787.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Announces GED Regional Testing Center March Schedule

Posted on February 22nd, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents interested in enhancing basic skills in English or math, or improving employment skills, are encouraged to attend free GED educational opportunities in March at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus.

Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is one of only two Testing Centers in Hancock County to house the official GED examination and also provides educational testing services to the immediate area, including Allen, Hardin, Henry, Putnam, Seneca, Wood and Wyandot counties. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

The GED examination was created with the goal of providing individuals who do not finish high school with an opportunity to earn an Ohio High School Equivalence Diploma and advance their academic and career aspirations. Prior to taking the GED examinations, individuals are encouraged to attend free GED Preparation classes offered Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and 6-8 p.m.

Owens’ GED Preparation classes are designed to help prepare students for success in passing the Ohio GED examination by building on a foundation of basic skills, including reading comprehension, science and mathematics. Owens’ GED Preparation classes are held in Room 150 on the Findlay-area Campus.

Additionally, all students must attend an orientation meeting before receiving GED Preparation classroom instruction. Students need to attend both orientation dates. Orientations are offered on Monday, March 8 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and on Tuesday, March 9 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. in Room 162, and on Thursday, March 11 from 6-8 p.m. and on Friday, March 12 from 6-8 p.m. in Room 162. Registration for orientations is not necessary.

The College also makes available a free Ohio GED practice test for individuals prior to taking the official examination. The practice test is offered in the College’s Testing Center in Room 124 through a computer program. The official Ohio GED examination cost $40.

The official Ohio GED examination is administered at Owens on one designated day per month. The College’s next official testing date is on Saturday, March 20. GED testing will begin at 7:15 a.m. on the Findlay-area Campus.

For more information on the many GED educational opportunities, call (567) 429-3547 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3547.

Owens Celebrates College-wide Read of Mitch Albom’s ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ Book During Spring Semester Events

Posted on February 19th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will celebrate and promote the importance of literacy with a series of events and activities focused around a college-wide read of best-selling author Mitch Albom’s book “Tuesdays with Morrie” throughout the months of February, March, April and May. The college-wide read initiative will culminate with Albom’s appearance at Owens on Tuesday, May11. The public is encouraged to join the campus community for guest speakers and educational awareness programs.

All events and activities will occur on the College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay. The college-wide read and the various events are being presented by the College’s Literacy Committee and the Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

Albom is an internationally-renowned and best-selling author, journalist, screenwriter, playwright, radio and television broadcaster and musician. His books collectively have sold over 28 million copies worldwide and have been made into Emmy Award-winning and critically-acclaimed television movies. Since 1985, Albom has served as a nationally-recognized sports journalist for the “Detroit Free Press” and has become one of the best-known media figures in the city’s history, working in newspapers, radio and television. He currently hosts a daily talk show on WJR radio and appears regularly on ESPN’s “Sports Reporters” and “SportsCenter”.

In addition to his journalism career, Albom has authored three highly successful best-selling books, titled “Tuesdays with Morrie”, “The Five People You Meet in Heaven” and “For One More Day”, that have all been turned into television movies. He also wrote the screenplay for both “For One More Day” and “The Five People You Meet in Heaven” and is an established playwright, having authored numerous pieces for theatre, including the off-Broadway version of “Tuesdays with Morrie”. Owens’ college-wide read of the acclaimed book “Tuesdays with Morrie” is a touching story about the author’s visits with his former college professor, Morrie Schwartz, and the rekindling of their relationship into one final lesson: how to live.

Activities will commence on Tuesday, Feb. 23, with a free roundtable discussion about the book “Tuesdays with Morrie” in the Faculty Development Center Room 158 on the Toledo-area Campus. The event will begin at 1 p.m.

In March, Owens will serve as host to two free screenings of the film “Tuesdays with Morrie”. Originally released in 1999 as a made-for-television movie, the Golden Globe nominated drama stars Jack Lemmon and Hank Azaria and is based on Albom’s best-selling book. Beginning at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 23, a free showing of the movie will take place in Room 141 on the Findlay-area Campus. A second airing of the movie will occur on Tuesday, March 30. Owens’ college-wide read activity will start at 4 p.m. in a yet-to-be-determined location on the Toledo-area Campus. Both events will conclude with a discussion and analysis of the television movie.

Events in April will feature an Owens student production of Albom’s play “And The Winner Is”. Written by Albom, “And The Winner Is” tells the comic story of Tyler Johnes, a self-obsessed movie star, who is finally nominated for an Oscar, then dies the night before the awards. Outraged at his bad luck and determined to know if he wins (even though he’s dead), he bargains with a heavenly gatekeeper to return to earth for the big night. Along the way, he drags his agent, his acting rival, his bombshell girlfriend and his ex-wife into the journey, in a wildly twisting tale of Hollywood, the afterlife and how we are judged.

“And The Winner Is” will be performed April 8-10 at 7:30 p.m. A matinee and evening performance will also occur on Sunday, April 11 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., respectively. All performances will occur in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus.

Owens’ college-wide read activities will culminate with “An Open Discussion with Author and Sports Writer Mitch Albom” on Tuesday, May 11. The event will begin at 7 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus.

Copies of Albom’s book “Tuesdays with Morrie” are available for purchase in the College’s Bookstores on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

Individuals can purchases tickets for the “And The Winner Is” student production and “An Open Discussion with Author and Sports Writer Mitch Albom” event by contacting the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Box Office at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2787. For additional information about Owens’ college-wide read activities, call (567) 661-7421 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7421.

Owens Community College Recognizes Employees For Excellence in Higher Education

Posted on February 19th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Two Owens Community College employees have been chosen by their peers to receive the eighth annual Exemplary Employee Awards for outstanding dedication and service to higher education.

Recipients for the 2009-10 academic year are:

Nicholas Savich of Toledo, Applications Systems Analyst (Exemplary Employee Award)
Brad Meyer of Bowling Green, Director of Public and Media Relations (Exemplary Administrator Award)

“Owens Community College employees are dedicated to helping students achieve success and realize their career goals,” said Dr. Cynthia Eschenburg, Owens Vice President of Human Resources. “These recipients are truly exemplary employees. Owens is able to fulfill its mission of strengthening the surrounding communities by providing excellence in higher education because of the vision, leadership and commitment exhibited on a daily basis by employees such as Nick and Brad. Both Nick and Brad are very deserving of this honor.”

The Exemplary Employee Awards program was established in 2003 and honors employees who make significant contributions to enhance the College’s mission of providing quality service and education over a period of time. Recipients are nominated and selected by their fellow Owens employees.

Selection criteria for the Exemplary Employee and Administrator awards are based upon an employee’s dedication to the College’s mission and vision, as demonstrated by their commitment to the College’s core values of service, learning, innovation, collaboration and excellence.

Savich’s superlative work on a major project involving the Workforce and Community Services division as well as the Office of the Registrar led to his nomination. His nomination read, in part that “His patience, dedication and determination to make sure everything worked and to ensure that all voices were heard while trying to please everyone with the end result was truly amazing.”

Meyer’s exceptional service as the College’s primary spokesperson and liaison to media outlets across Northwest Ohio prompted his nomination, which stated “His commitment to the college’s mission and core values is evident in word and deed. He has garnered the respect of all those with whom he works – on campus and off – and he is a wonderful ambassador for Owens.”

Owens Community College Hosts FFA District I Tractor Troubleshooting Contest, Feb. 26

Posted on February 18th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area high school students will put their knowledge of tractors to the test as they compete in the 17th annual FFA District I Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics Contest on Friday, Feb. 26 at Owens Community College.

The contest will occur from 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. in the College’s Transportation Technologies Center on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

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

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

High schools invited to participate in the competition are Ayersville H.S., Bowling Green H.S., Edon H.S., Eastwood H.S., Edgerton H.S., Elmwood H.S., Fairview H.S., Four County Career Center, Genoa H.S., Liberty Center H.S., Oak Harbor H.S., Otsego H.S. and Penta Career Center.

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

Owens Findlay-area Campus Offers Spring LEGO Vehicles Engineering Classes, March 2-25

Posted on February 18th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Area youth ages 5 through 12 are invited to explore science, mathematics and creative thinking through the use of LEGO materials as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus offers spring LEGO Vehicles Engineering classes, March 2-25.

The spring LEGO Vehicles Engineering classes will be offered through Owens’ Workforce and Community Services and will take place in the Community Education and Wellness Center on the Findlay-area Campus. The beginning class, for ages 5 through 7, will occur Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m., March 2-23. Owens’ advanced class, for ages 8 through 12, will take place Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., March 4-25.

“Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus is excited to once again offer the LEGO Engineering Program to area youth and bring science, mathematics and creative thinking alive in a very unique learning environment,” said Steve Hillard, Owens Director of Sales and Program Development on the Findlay-area Campus.

Using advanced LEGO parts and pieces, LEGO Vehicles Engineering class attendees will learn to design and build approximately 13 vehicles using mathematics, science and creative thinking skills. Advanced course attendees will build engineering marvels that include space cruisers, submarines and inch-worm cars, while the beginning class will create vehicles such as rubber band slammer cars, little red wagons and trick cars. The experiential learning activities will use principles related to simple and complex machines, as well as gearing and mechanical advantage techniques.

In addition, the class will use LEGO Educational Division materials and LEGO Technic elements as part of the experiential learning program.

Registration for each LEGO Vehicles Engineering class is $89. For more information, or to register for either class, call (567) 429-3155 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3155.

Human Resource Management Certificate Offered at Owens Findlay-area Campus, March 18 – May 6

Posted on February 18th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Northwest Ohio small business owners, office managers and human resource professionals interested in expanding their proficiency in the area of human resources are invited to participate in the Society for Human Resource Management’s (SHRM) Essentials of Human Resource Management Certification Program at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus. The 16-hour program begins March 18 and will continue through May 6.

The program will be offered through Owens’ Workforce and Community Services on Thursday evenings from 6-8 p.m. in the College’s Community Education and Wellness Center. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again offer a program which provides a comprehensive overview of various aspects of human resource management through curriculum designed by leading experts and professionals,” said Steve Hillard, Owens Director of Sales and Program Development on the Findlay-area Campus. “The SHRM Essentials of Human Resource Management Certificate Program is an excellent tool for professionals new to the field of human resources or those looking to develop and enhance their skills in this area.”

The Essentials of Human Resource Management Certification course will feature six learning modules that cover human resource topics relevant to today’s human resource professional. Topics covered will include the human resource management, employment law, effective recruitment and selection, basics of compensation and benefits, employee development and ensuring quality performance. Attendees will receive the latest content and methods based upon legislative changes, recent developments, and the “real world” experiences of leading professionals.

In addition, course participants will receive SHRM learning materials and upon meeting all program requirements a SHRM Certificate of Completion.

For more information, or to enroll in the program, call (567) 429-3155 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3155, or access the College’s website at www.owens.edu/workforce_cs/cce.html.

Owens’ Community Terrace View CafÈ Announces Spring Semester Menu, Feb. 23 – April 22

Posted on February 17th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to explore the diverse world of international cuisine and regional food discoveries during a unique dining experience at Owens Community College as the hospitality management and culinary arts programs unveil spring menu selections in the community Terrace View CafÈ.

The student-run Terrace View CafÈ is open to the public during the academic year. Owens’ restaurant, which is coordinated by the Food, Nutrition and Hospitality department, is located in College Hall Room 148 on the Toledo-area Campus. The Terrace View CafÈ will be open to area residents for lunch Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Seating is limited and available until 12:15 p.m. The cost per lunch is only $7.50 and reservations are required.

The Terrace View CafÈ will be available to guests starting Tuesday, Feb. 23 with a United States Southern cuisine that features a pulled pork sandwich as the entrÈe. Regional food discoveries will be the featured selection on Tuesdays, while Thursday’s culinary focus is international influences.

Upcoming Spring Semester dates and entrÈe listings include Feb. 25 (vleeskruiden – herbed chicken), March 2 (roasted pork loin with wild mushroom ragout), March 4 (ratatouille served over rice pilaf), March 16 (creole chicken), March 18 (kabash – chicken and tomato stew), March 23 (pork boliche – roasted pork loin stuffed with chorizo and olives), March 25 (sautÈed chicken with celery), April 6 (parmesan and herb crusted tilapia), April 8 (shumai – Japanese steamed wontons with cucumber sunomono), April 13 (smothered chicken), April 15 (marinated jerk chicken with pineapple mango chutney), April 20 (made-to-order omelets) and April 22 (lombo di maiale ripieno forcemeat – stuffed pork tenderloin). Additionally, attendees have the opportunity to choose a vegetarian preparation if desired. A complete listing of dishes is available at www.owens.edu/terrace. Also, meals are available for take out.

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

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

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

Owens Findlay-area Campus Announces New ACT Preparation Class, March 3-31

Posted on February 17th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents preparing to take the national ACT test are encouraged to bring a pencil, paper and a calculator to the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus as the academic institution announces the creation of new program titled “Building Confidence with ACT Prep”. The new class, which will take place March 3-31, is coordinated through the College’s Workforce and Community Services.

The new ACT preparation class will occur Wednesday evenings, March 3-31, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the College’s Community Education and Wellness Center Room 128 on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

In addition, Owens is offering the ACT preparation class at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee. The class will take place Monday evenings, March 1-29, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in Room 107.

“Owens Community College is proud to expand its continuing education curriculum and offer a unique program which will help students in their preparation to take the upcoming national ACT test,” said Rhonda Hogrefe, Owens Account Representative for Workforce and Community Services. “This class will provide students with a variety of test-taking skills that will be beneficial as they study for the ACT and take the actual test.”

During each of the sessions, students will be tutored in all five sections of the ACT test. The actual ACT is comprised of one test in each of the following areas: English, math, reading, science reasoning and writing. In addition to being tutored in these areas through one-on-one teaching, students will learn traditional testing strategies such as how to take a timed test and how to find the elusive answer to a difficult question.

In addition to offering the ACT preparation class, Owens serves as a host site for the national ACT test. The next testing date after the ACT preparation class is in April. Prior registration through the ACT organization is required.

Limited seating is available and early registration is recommended. For more information, or to register for the class, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Express Basketball Teams Conclude Regular Home Season Against Lakeland CC, Feb. 17

Posted on February 17th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s and women’s basketball programs will conclude the regular season home portion of their schedules with games against Lakeland Community College on Wednesday, Feb. 17. The women’s team will play Lakeland (19-5, 8-2) at 5:30 p.m., while the Express men will battle the Lakers (18-7, 8-2) beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Both games will be played at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Admission to home games is free.

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express has amassed an overall record of 24-2 and is 10-0 (first place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. Llanas’ team is currently on a 17-game winning streak and is ranked No. 4 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball poll.

The 2009-10 edition of the men’s basketball program has an overall record of 13-13 and a 6-4 mark (third place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

Owens and The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation Announce New Success Program Fund Partnership

Posted on February 17th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College and The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation are entering into a new partnership which will eventually afford all graduating high school students in financial need throughout Hancock County the opportunity to pursue a free college education as the two organizations announce the creation of a new Success Program Fund.

The new partnership is being made possible as a result of a generous $15,000 challenge grant by The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation. As a result of the collaboration, the Owens Community College Foundation will be charged with raising $15,000 to match the grant from The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation.

“Owens Community College appreciates The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation’s commitment to furthering access to higher education,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and Foundation President. “The Success Program was established to eliminate financial barriers for individuals to pursue their education and career aspirations. This new partnership between The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation and Owens Community College provides a strong foundation for sustaining the current program with Findlay City Schools and eventually expanding the program to all residents throughout Hancock County.”

Savage added, “Owens Community College’s Foundation is currently beginning the process of growing the matching challenge grant and will be hosting a Success Scholarship Program benefit gala in March to raise additional funds for this initiative.”

“More than ever before, community colleges provide an affordable bridge to four-year programs as well as a pathway for high school graduates who want to be competitive in a changing workforce. So often, families write off post-high school education as too expensive. This program opens the doors for hundreds of young people to start building a career right out of high school,” said Katherine Kreuchauf, President of The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation. “One of the Community Foundation’s core areas of support is education. This partnership with Owens adds another way we can help students and help the region stay economically vital and competitive.”

Among the schools expected to eventually benefit from the expanded Success Program in Hancock County are Arcadia High School, Arlington High School, Cory-Rawson High School, Liberty Benton High School, McComb High School, Van Buren High School and Vanlue High School. All graduating classes from the seven schools will have the opportunity to participate in this unique program, which is designed to assist students, who receive only partial federal financial aid in the form of a Pell Grant, attend college. The Success Program will bridge the gap between the federal grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education. Findlay City Schools is already a partner in the Success Program initiative.

Fifteen high schools are currently involved in the Owens Success Program. Most recently in May 2009, the College expanded the Success Program to include the Washington Local School District. Prior to the May announcement, the Success Program was extended to all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district in October 2008. Both Toledo Public Schools’ Woodward High School and Findlay City Schools became the first and second educational institutions in 2008 to partner with the College’s Foundation and extend this opportunity to its students.

Two hundred forty-seven graduates in 2009 from Whitmer High School, Findlay High School and all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district in financial need are receiving a free college education to Owens as part of the College Foundation’s expanded Success Program on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. During the previous academic year, 87 Woodward and Findlay high school students chose to continue their education at Owens through the Success Program.

“In the first year of the Success Program, enrollment from our two pilot schools increased substantially,” stated Savage. “Fall enrollment for recent Woodward High School graduates increased 92 percent from the previous five-year average, and enrollment for recent Findlay High School graduates increased 43 percent.”

Savage added, “What is even more remarkable is that when the Success Program was expanded to include Findlay High School, Whitmer High School and all high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district, average fall enrollment for recent graduates from these schools increased 30 percent over a five-year historical average. Eliminating financial barriers through the Success Program is making a difference and Owens Community College is committed to expanding such educational opportunities.”

In order to be eligible, students must graduate from high school, be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours each semester at Owens and complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid and receive some federal grant funding. Recipients must enroll at Owens during the first Fall Semester or Spring Semester following graduation and will have three years to complete their associate’s degree through the Success Program initiative.

On Friday, March 26, the Owens Foundation will present an evening of food and entertainment in support of the Success Scholarship Program as the academic institution and the Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons host “An UnCommon Evening” in Perrysburg. For more information about the event, call (567) 661-7603 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7603.

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Hancock County area through collaborative leadership, responsible grantmaking, and the development of philanthropic giving. Established in 1992 as an outgrowth of a one-time gift from L. Dale Dorney, the Community Foundation has granted more than $20 million to fund projects that support our community. Visit www.community-foundation.com or call 419-425-1100 to learn more about how the Community Foundation is helping our community.

Owens Community College Offers Spring ACT Preparation Class, March 1-29

Posted on February 16th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents preparing to take the national ACT test are encouraged to bring a pencil, paper and a calculator to Owens Community College as the academic institution offers a program titled “Building Confidence with ACT Prep” in March. The class is coordinated through the College’s Workforce and Community Services.

The ACT preparation class will occur Monday evenings, March 1-29, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center Room 107 on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

In addition, Owens is offering the ACT preparation class for the first time on the Findlay-area Campus. The class will take place Wednesday evenings, March 3-31, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Community Education and Wellness Center Room 128. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again offer a unique educational program which will help students in their preparation to take the upcoming national ACT test,” said Rhonda Hogrefe, Owens Account Representative for Workforce and Community Services. “This class will provide students with a variety of test-taking skills that will be beneficial as they study for the ACT and take the actual test.”

During each of the four sessions, students will be tutored in all five sections of the ACT test. The actual ACT is comprised of one test in each of the following areas: English, math, reading, science reasoning and writing. In addition to being tutored in these areas through one-on-one teaching, students will learn traditional testing strategies such as how to take a timed test and how to find the elusive answer to a difficult question.

Limited seating is available and early registration is recommended. For more information, or to register for the class, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Community College to Participate in $5 Million Bioscience Workforce Training Grant Targeting Ohio’s Displaced Workers

Posted on February 15th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College in collaboration with five other community colleges and BioOhio have been selected to receive a five million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration to implement the Ohio Bioscience Industry Workforce Preparedness project.

The three-year project will provide training to 660 displaced or underemployed workers in declining industries to become better equipped for careers in Ohio’s growing biomedical industry. In addition, 40 incumbent workers will receive more advanced training to move into higher level jobs, creating new entry level job opportunities for unemployed adults.

In addition to Owens, other partners in the statewide project consortium include Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, Columbus State Community College, Cuyahoga Community College, Lakeland Community College and Sinclair Community College, with strong support from the Ohio Board of Regents. CAEL (The Council for Adult and Experiential Learning), a national non-profit organization focused on workforce development and adult learning, will serve a technical assistance role.

“Owens Community College’s selection as a partner in the Ohio Bioscience Industry Workforce Preparedness project is a direct reflection on this academic institution’s commitment to providing leading edge training in the growing bioscience industry,” said Mark Durivage, Owens Dean of the School of Technology. “We look forward to working with our business, industry and educational partners and further strengthening Ohio’s economic growth and vitality through higher education.”

“The bioscience industry continues to grow and will be a key component of our economic recovery,” said U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown. “These funds will allow BioOhio to continue to transform the workforce development system for this emerging industry and create new jobs for Ohioans. A skilled workforce is a critical component of economic development and job creation.”

“Bioscience’s emergence as a key growth industry in Ohio can only be maintained with an abundance of well qualified workers,” BioOhio President and CEO Tony Dennis said. “This project enables BioOhio and its community college partners to accelerate the growth of high paying bioscience jobs by producing well-qualified workers.”

Project activity will focus on four regions in Ohio, which include five mixed urban/suburban metropolitan areas: Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton and Toledo. In each region, consortium colleges will serve as the regional project leaders, heading up a team of employers, workforce agencies, labor groups and community partners.

Each regional team, with guidance from BioOhio, will refine recruitment, assessment, support, placement and retention strategies to ensure trainee success. Most of the training within the project will provide participants with an industry recognized credential. Participants who enroll in training activities which don’t result in a credential will receive course credits.

Eleven biomedical employers have formally committed to partnering on the project, with additions possible in the coming months. Organizational partners include Ben Venue Laboratories, STERIS and Affymetrix in Northeast Ohio; Roxane, PharmaForce and International Specialty Products in Central Ohio; Amylin, Alkermes, Eurand and IMDS in Southwest Ohio; and NAMSA (North American Science Associates Inc.) in Northwest Ohio.

These employers will play a critical role in helping develop more completely articulated industry career pathways and ensuring that the knowledge and skills needed to perform successfully in their industry are adequately addressed. They also have pledged to consider qualified applicants who complete project training programs for openings in their organizations.

“Ohio is becoming the ideal location for getting biomedical products to market,” said BioOhio Senior Director of Workforce Bill Tacon. “Workers completing this training will directly contribute to Ohio’s strengths, especially in manufacturing and testing.”

The Ohio Department of Development’s Regional Workforce Development Directors and Business Service Representatives will promote the new program to displaced workers and encourage bioscience employers to draw their emerging workforce from this labor pool.

BioOhio (formerly Omeris) is a non-profit organization supported by the Thomas Edison Program of the Ohio Department of Development. Its mission is to accelerate bioscience discovery, innovation and commercialization of global value, driving economic growth and improving quality of life in Ohio. BioOhio is headquartered in Columbus, with regional business development affiliates in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Athens.

Owens Community College Foundation Recognizes Students for Academic Excellence

Posted on February 15th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Foundation has awarded more than $111,000 in scholarships for the 2009-10 academic year to students for their outstanding achievements.

“The Owens Community College Foundation is proud to recognize these outstanding scholarship recipients for displaying exemplary efforts while pursuing their higher education aspirations,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of College Development and Foundation President. “Honoring these scholarship recipients and their accomplishments would not be possible without the generous support of our donors. Their support through Foundation scholarships provides enhanced opportunities for students to achieve academic success.”

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.2 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 24 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

James A. Adams Memorial Scholarship: Kellen Schott of Celina and Brian Snyder of Bloomdale each received a $650 scholarship. Recipients of this award must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

George D. Allesee Memorial Scholarship: Eric Eberly of Bowling Green and Vickie Ferguson of Findlay each received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to business majors and students who are 22 years of age or older.

Alumni Legacy Scholarship: Elizabeth Celley of Perrysburg received a $2,000 scholarship and Miles Hinkle of Findlay and Angelia Huffman of Toledo each received a $1,600 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and have a parent or legal guardian who is a member of the Owens Alumni Association.

American Society for Industrial Security International, Toledo Chapter, Fred C. Heck Scholarship: David Sims of Millbury received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and be a second-year student. Preference is given to criminal justice technology majors.

The Andersons Scholarship: Macon Mauchmar of Toledo and Matthew Krieg of Toledo each received a $750 scholarship. Recipients must have completed at least 12 credit hours at Owens, be enrolled in six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to students majoring in the School of Business and Information Systems, the School of Technology, the School of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness,
and the natural sciences area.

The Rudy Aschenbrener Memorial Scholarship: Chad Purk of Rossford received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must have completed at least six credit hours at Owens, have achieved a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and be majoring in the automotive body repair program.

The Bill Buck Memorial Scholarship: Angelica Breeding of Maumee received a $225 scholarship, Penny Patterson of Pemberville received a $376 scholarship and Cameron Seidl of Sylvania received a $225 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA, be working toward an associate’s degree, have a disability and be registered with the College’s Disability Services Office.

Central West Area Council Scholarship: Kristal Richardson of Toledo received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must reside in the Central West area of Toledo, be pursuing an associate’s degree and have achieved a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to part-time students.

Cristoforo Colombo Lodge #772 Scholarship: Angelica Breeding of Maumee received an $800 scholarship. Recipients must be an incoming freshman who has graduated from a Northwest Ohio high school, be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to students of Italian descent.

Chrysler Foundation Fund Diamante Latino Scholarship: SantaMonika Garcia of Fostoria received a $500 scholarship, Ana Alicia Munoz of Findlay received a $525 scholarship, Trevor Barrientos of Findlay received a $600 scholarship and Taylor Rhoades of Carey received a $1,100 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and be majoring in business, engineering technologies, design technologies or information systems. Preference is given to students of Latino heritage.

Detective Keith Dressel Memorial Scholarship: David Sims of Millbury received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in a minimum six credits hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and have completed at least 12 credit hours at Owens. Preference is given to criminal justice technology majors.

Findlay Leadership Scholarship: Harpreet Singh of Findlay received a $600 scholarship. Recipients must have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours each semester. Preference is given to Findlay-area Campus students.

Ford Scholarship: Susan Abrell of Toledo, Cobin Hedrick of Continental and Maureen Kurtz of Tiffin each received a $975 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester. This award is designated for women and minorities and preference is given to Ford employees and their spouses and children.

Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative Scholarship: Rachel Arnold of Alvada, Emily Dillon of McComb, Brennan Lieb of Findlay and Jennifer Vanscoder of Bowling Green each received a $200 scholarship. Recipients must be a member of the Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative or live on the Hancock-Wood Cooperative lines. In addition, individuals must have achieved a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA.

Rich Harmon Memorial Scholarship: Wesley Beebe of Sylvania received a $575 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours, have achieved a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA and exhibit a strong desire to pursue a quality assurance career in manufacturing.

Chuck Holsclaw Memorial Scholarship: Angelia Huffman of Toledo, Julie Rowe of Oregon and Christine Vasquez of Toledo each received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to students who are 22 years of age or older.

John Deere Scholarship: Adam Crist of Nova, Zachary Hilleary of Farmersville, Mike Hockenberry of Shelby, Neal Kitchen of Chardon, Matt Miller of Shelby, Brock Nuhfer of Willard, Calvin Sinn of Perrysburg, Kevin Tallman of Urbana, Cory Wagner of Bowling Green, Zachary Welling of Pemberville and Ben Wiemken of Archbold each received a $900 scholarship. Preference is given to students within Transportation Technologies at Owens.

Jones-Hamilton Co. Scholarship: Kyle Simok of Northwood received a $900 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and be a resident of Lake Township, Perrysburg Township, Rossford or Northwood.

Health Technologies Scholarship: Hui-Ling Chen of Findlay, Kerri Murphy of Waterville, Kelly Galenski of Toledo, Susan Kau of Findlay, Maria Kreuz of Swanton, Cody Price of Dola, Mary Richardson of Delta and Rachel Sepesy of Ida, Mich., each received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to employees of Little Sisters of the Poor or the College’s nursing majors.

Home Savings Business Scholarship: Katelyn Brodman of Carey received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must be a Findlay-area Campus student, have achieved a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours each semester. Preference is given to a student in the School of Business and Information Systems.

John and Margaret Kurfess Scholarship: Jennifer Feuerstein of Swanton received a $575 scholarship. Recipients must have completed at least 16 credit hours at Owens, be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and be enrolled in a health sciences major.

Donald Leonhardt Welding Scholarship: Garrett Evans of Toledo received a $575 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to a student majoring in welding.

Maumee Rotary STRIVE Scholarship: Kelsey Corum of Maumee and Kayla Fox of Maumee each received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must be graduating seniors of Penta Career Center who are participating in the Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education (STRIVE) program.

Mosser Construction Inc. Scholarship: Jaymee Gerding of Ottawa received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must be a scond-year student enrolled in architectural engineering technology and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

National City Diamante Latino Scholarship: Tabitha Mixon of Toledo received a $525 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and be of Latino heritage.

Owens Community College Bookstore Scholarship: Megan Cantu of Oregon and Eric Eberly of Bowling Green each received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must have completed 12 credit hours at Owens, be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to business management or marketing and sales majors.

Owens Community College Foundation Scholarship: Ashley Davidson of Bettsville, Dana Haubert of LaRue, Mark Jakubec of Whitehouse, Andrew Lee of Bloomdale, Lauren Murtaugh of Graytown, Leanna Schild of Monroeville, Andrew Sickelbaugh of Perrysbug, Heidi Smith of New Riegel, Tiffany Spangler of Findlay and Holly Waingrow of Lakeside-Marblehead each received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

Owens Community College Foundation Diamante Latino Scholarship: SantaMonika Garcia of Fostoria received a $375 scholarship, Tabitha Mixon of Toledo received an $875 scholarship, Ana Alicia Munoz of Findlay received a $975 scholarship and Alfred DeLaCruz of Findlay received a $1,400 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and be of Latino heritage.

Owens Community College Foundation Honors Scholarship: Charlene Black of Pemberville and Olivia Duty of Woodville each received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must be a member of the Owens Community College Honors Program.

Owens Corning Diamante Latino Scholarship: SantaMonika Garcia of Fostoria received a $325 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and be of Latino heritage.

Owens Community College Marketing and Sales Scholarship: Erin Bunke of Holland received a $300 scholarship. Recipients must have completed a minimum of 15 credit hours at Owens, be enrolled in marketing and sales, retailing management or financial services sales, and have achieved a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.

Perrysburg Rotary STRIVE Scholarship: Christina Jensen of Maumee received a $4,000 scholarship and Julianne Hansen of Northwood received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must be graduating seniors of Penta Career Center who are participating in the Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education (STRIVE) program.

Post-Secondary Option Book Scholarship: Destiny Adams of Findlay, Lauren Anderson of Maumee, Jordan Beavers of Wharton, Danielle Bockbrader of Walbridge, Jaima Businger of Jenera, Christopher Chandler of Swanton, Amanda Clark of Holland, James Cole of Waterville, Landon Fleegle of Findlay, Sara Fout of Fostoria, Heather Hagerty of Vanlue, Aubrey Hartle of Monclova, Heather Haws of Bradner, Kaitlin Herrick of Luckey, Tyler Hoodlebrink of Pemberville, Holly Irsak of Perrysburg, Patricia Jones of Rossford, James Keller of Holland, Samantha Kretz of Holland, Donald Laskey of Findlay, Kaylee Merrill of Holland, Shannon Meyer of Deshler, Lorraine Michel of Perrysburg, Samantha Muntz of Genoa, Maria Newton of Findlay, Breann Pfouts of Walbridge, Alexia Proch of Perrysburg, Alicia Riley of Toledo, Morgan Roberts of Fostoria, Ryan Rose of North Baltimore, Kyle Simok of Northwood, Kaitlyn Wentz of Findlay, Alexa Wilhelm of Republic and Lauryn Winter of Perrysburg each received $400 scholarships. Recipients must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Individuals must be former Post-Secondary Option students who are continuing their education at Owens following their high school graduation.

President Daniel H. Brown Scholarship: Lori Depinet of Republic, Leslie Foust of Sycamore, Renee Hires of Northwood and Tanya Luth-Hall of Grand Rapids each received a $950 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to health science students.

Private Industry Collaborative Scholarship: Darlene Grey of Toledo and Tammy Koleszar of Toledo each received an $850 scholarship. Recipients must be a non-traditional student who is a dislocated or soon-to-be dislocated worker.

Edward and Linda Reiter Scholarship: Michele Brueshaber of Grand Rapids received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must have completed 12 credit hours at Owens, be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and be enrolled in a technology-specific associate’s degree program.

Howard Robinson Memorial Scholarship: Miranda Sell of New Knoxville received a $575 scholarship. Recipients must have completed one semester at Owens, be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.

Pauline Schmidt Memorial Scholarship: Christopher Holt of Napoleon received a $300 scholarship. Recipients must have completed 12 credit hours at Owens, be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours, have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and be enrolled in the dental hygiene program.

Seeger Consulting Service Scholarship: Ashley Maxwell of Findlay received a $250 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to business majors.

Spanish American Organization Scholarship: Ana Alicia Munoz of Findlay received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA, be of Latino heritage and reside in Lucas or Wood counties.

Tall Timbers Foundation Scholarship: Tyler Smith of Findlay received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Individuals must be a Findlay-area Campus student who is an employee or dependent of an employee at the Tall Timbers Industrial Center of Findlay.

Toledo Automobile Dealers Association Scholarship: Joseph Bella of Perrysburg and Joshua Reynolds of Bowling Green each received a $1,000 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.4 cumulative GPA and be enrolled in the diesel or automotive technology program.

Toledo Community Foundation – Marsh Family Fund Scholarship: Haley Bassett of Bradner, David Bimslager of Fostoria, Brittany Buczko of Toledo, Elizabeth Celley of Perrysburg, Emily Herman of Perrysburg and Sheila Kelble of Berkey each received a $400 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

Toledo Community Foundation – George and Luella Shoemaker Fund: Monica Bird of Lambertville, Mich., Brittney Bradner of Toledo, Jennifer Brasel of Temperance, Mich., Adrian Brown of Toledo, Katherine Brown of Perrysburg, Brandy Campbell of Walbridge, Megan Cantu of Oregon, Benjamin Greene of Toledo, Ryan Hilt of Toledo, Tamara Jeffries of Toledo, Linda Lawrence of Toledo, Sherrie Lewis of Toledo, Joan Merillat of Toledo, Cameron Seidl of Sylvania, Joshua Tropf of Toledo and Christina Williams of Toledo each received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must reside in the Greater Toledo area of Lucas County and contiguous communities, have completed 12 credit hours at Owens, be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and be enrolled in a technology-specific program.

Toledo Mobile Radio Association Scholarship: Richard Chaffee of Findlay and Michael Reinhart of Alvada each received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and be enrolled in electrical/electronics engineering technology or skilled trades technology electrical major.

UPS Scholarship: Gina Cipolla of Oregon, Jennifer Nelson of Oregon, Penny Patterson of Pemberville, Heidi Turner of Toledo and Douglas Weinandy of Galion each received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must have completed 12 credit hours, be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA.

Bud Weaver Memorial Scholarship: Lori Wenz of Sylvania received a $400 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Preference is given to a student who is a criminal justice technology major.

Keith Weidman Scholarship: Brittney Fletcher of Arlington, Rochelle Lovelace of Arlington and Bridgette McClelland of Findlay each received a $600 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester and be a 2009 graduate of Arlington High School.

J. Michael Wilder Scholarship: Joni Petersheim of Deshler received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours each semester and have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

Matthew D. Winckowski Scholarship: Shelby Broka of Oregon received a $500 scholarship. Recipients must be enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester, have achieved a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and be a graduating senior from Clay High School. Preference is given to a student who is a commercial art technology major.

Owens Community College Welcomes Karen Durrant’s Dreamgirls in Concert, Feb. 19

Posted on February 11th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents will have the opportunity to take a trip back in time to the magical sounds of the 1960s, 70s and 80s made famous by such internationally-known female artists as Tina Turner and Diana Ross as emerging nationally-recognized performer Karen Durrant brings to life their classic and timeless songs at Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts on Friday, Feb. 19.

Karen Durrant’s Dreamgirls performance will take place in the College’s Mainstage Theatre at 8 p.m. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Karen Durrant’s appearance is part of the College’s ongoing celebration of Black History Month.

“Owens Community College is proud to celebrate Black History Month by honoring several African-American women who defined the musical sounds of the 1960s, 70s and 80s,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Operations Manager for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “Attendees will be captivated by Karen Durrant’s authentic costumes, choreography and vocals that bring to life the sights and sounds of several internationally-known entertainers at the height of their stardom.”

Honoring some of the most talented ladies in musical history, Karen Durrant’s Dreamgirls performance will feature many crowd-pleasing favorites made famous by Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Donna Summer and Martha Reeves. Musical hits in Durrant’s repertoire include “Dancing In The Street”, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On”, “Back in My Arms Again”, “Hot Stuff”, “Simply The Best” and “Proud Mary”, among many others. Durrant has showcased her musical talents and played to venues worldwide, including in Canda and the United States.

Tickets for Karen Durrant’s Dreamgirls performance are $28 for floor level seating and $24 for raised level seating. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu/arts or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. ARTS (2787).

Owens Community College Express Basketball Reschedules Home Games Against Lorain County CC, Feb. 11

Posted on February 11th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s and women’s basketball home games originally scheduled for Feb. 10 against Lorain County Community College will occur on Thursday, Feb. 11. The women’s team will play at 5:30 p.m. against the Commodores, while the Express men will battle Lorain County beginning at 7:30 p.m.

All home games are played at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express has amassed an overall record of 22-2 and is 8-0 (first place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. Llanas’ team is currently on a 15-game winning streak and is ranked No. 4 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball poll.

The 2009-10 edition of the men’s basketball program has an overall record of 11-13 and a 4-4 mark (fifth place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

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

Posted on February 9th, 2010

Owens dental hygiene student Allysha Wells of Forest provides free dental service to Cole McClary of Perrysburg.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Oral hygiene, pearly white teeth and smiling faces were abundant at Owens Community College as more than 150 area children received free dental service courtesy of the Dental Hygiene program as part of the nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day.

Owens’ Dental Hygiene program, in collaboration with the Toledo Dental Society, was among thousands of organizations that provided free dental services and educational outreach for “at-risk” children across the country.

For five-year-old Bailey Hillman of Luckey, the experience of having her teeth cleaned was “pretty cool”. Showing off her shiny white teeth to her grandmother, Sharon Swartz of Luckey, Bailey was excited to see her take-home gifts that included SpongeBob Squarepants toothpaste.

“I like my new toothpaste because SpongeBob is my favorite,” said a proud Bailey while holding up her gift. “Having my teeth cleaned tickled a little bit.”

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

“Give Kids A Smile Day is a great event, which makes children aware of the importance of brushing their teeth and getting their teeth cleaned,” said Bailey’s grandmother Sharon. “I want to thank Owens Community College for making this day possible.”

Laura Hughes-Williams of Perrysburg, whose eight-year-old daughter Kendra Williams attended the event, added, “Owens Community College cares about the community and children. Give Kids A Smile Day provides a great opportunity to promote healthy living.”

According to Beth Tronolone, Owens Chair of Dental Hygiene, Give Kids A Smile Day is also a wonderful opportunity to raise the importance and awareness of preventive dental care such as flossing, brushing and regular dental visits.

Eight-year-old Kendra Williams of Perrysburg (seated) is all smiles before her teeth cleaning with Owens dental hygiene student Jenell Yaichner of Archbold.

“If untreated, tooth decay just continues to get worse and affects children’s overall health,” Tronolone stated. “Owens Community College’s Dental Hygiene program is proud to once again participate in such a worthwhile endeavor and provide dental services to individuals in need. Our goal during Give Kids A Smile Day is to provide each attendee with a positive dental experience and help them feel comfortable smiling again.”

Tronolone added, “Owens’ Dental Hygiene program is extremely appreciative to all our friends and partners to include Dental Hygiene program students, faculty and alumni, and area dentists, as well as Penta Career Center faculty and students, for volunteering their time and helping local children in need of proper dental care. The day was once again a huge success because of their efforts.”

One of the individuals returning to the College’s Dental Hygiene Clinic to volunteer her time at Give Kids A Smile Day was 2007 Owens dental hygiene alum Stephanie Nester of Portland, Mich. Now employed at a dental practice in Lansing, Mich., and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from The Ohio State University, Nester believes it is important to give back to the community.

“Community service is very important and I always enjoy returning to Owens and helping the Dental Hygiene program provide access to dental care,” stated Nester.

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

The College’s Dental Hygiene program provides more than 40 students with a fully accredited, scientifically current and competency-based curriculum annually. Students receive classroom instruction as well as hands-on experience in the Dental Hygiene Clinic, while preparing to sit for the national, state or regional exam in dental hygiene. Owens’ program also offers dental services to area residents through its Dental Hygiene Clinic. The 20-chair clinic is staffed by dental hygiene students and supervised by licensed dental professionals at Owens, and appointments are available during the Fall and Spring semesters for a $25 fee.

A decorative cup and instruments await the next teeth cleaning during Give Kids A Smile Day at Owens.

Five-year-old Joe Wassef of Holland learns about his teeth from Owens dental hygiene student Julie Paszczykowski of Toledo during a Give Kids A Smile educational program at the Dental Hygiene Clinic.

Owens dental hygiene alum Stephanie Nester of Portland, Mich., (right) assists Owens dental hygiene student Jenell Yaichner of Archbold with some paperwork.

Owens Community College Announces Free Spring ‘QuickStart to College’ Program, Feb. 18 – May 6

Posted on February 8th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to explore career options and gain advice on making the first steps toward a college education as Owens Community College presents a free “QuickStart to College” program, Feb.18 – May 6.

The free 10-week program, which is designed for first generation college attendees, low wage workers, underemployed and undereducated adults in mind, will take place on various days and times on the Toledo-area Campus, as well as at the College’s Learning Center at The Source, which located on Monroe Street in downtown Toledo. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Learning Center at The Source will offer two classes. The first ‘QuickStart to College’ class will take place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-7:50 p.m., Feb. 18 – May 6, while the second class will occur Mondays from 9 a.m. – 12:50 p.m., Feb. 22 – May 3. Additionally, two classes will be available to area residents on Owens’ Toledo-area Campus in College Hall Room 176. The first class will be held Mondays and Wednesdays from 6-7:50 p.m., Feb. 22 – May 5. The College’s second class will take place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-10:50 a.m., Feb. 18 – May 4.

In order to be eligible for the free “QuickStart to Success” program, individuals must have obtained their high school Diploma or GED. A mandatory orientation detailing the program will take on Thursday, Feb. 11 from 1-4 p.m. at the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo. For more information about the “QuickStart to College” program, call (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777, or (567) 661-2732 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2732.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Voted No. 4 in the Nation by NJCAA

Posted on February 8th, 2010

Owens’ Brittany Darling looks to score in a recent Express women’s basketball game.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Continuing to build on a season of success, the Owens Community College women’s basketball team is currently ranked No. 4 in the nation among Division II basketball teams by the NJCAA.

“Being ranked among the elite teams in the country is quite an achievement for the Owens women’s basketball program,” said Michael Llanas, Owens Women’s Basketball Head Coach. “I’m very proud of our players who really have been putting forth the hard work and effort on the basketball court.”

Llanas added, “We’re honored by this recognition, but certainly understand that we have a lot of difficult games ahead of us. Our goal is to continue to improve as a team each day and bring home a conference championship and beyond.”

Owens is off to its best start in program history with an impressive 22-2 overall record and an 8-0 mark (first place) in the OCCAC. The Express has won 15 games in a row to include victories over Cuyahoga CC 87-44, Edison State CC 76-65, Lakeland CC 65-52, Glen Oaks CC 94-54 and Sinclair CC 87-72. Eleven players have started games this season for the Express, who are outscoring opponents by nearly 24 points per game.

Express freshman guard Jasmine Blanton of Toledo (Notre Dame Academy) leads a balanced attack in scoring at 16.6 points per game and 3.7 assists. Brittany Darling of Curtice (Genoa H.S.), a sophomore center, is adding 13.7 points, 10.3 rebounds and 3.8 blocks per game, while sophomore guard/forward Sarah Clark of Delphos (Delphos St. John’s H.S.) is totaling 11 points, 9.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists for Owens.

Owens women’s basketball team members also include Ashley Hooker of Toledo, sophomore guard/forward (Whitmer H.S.), 4 points per game; Kaila Corrothers of Detroit, sophomore guard (Detroit Consortium H.S.), 7.9 points per game; Rashanna Johnson of Columbus, point guard (Whitehall-Yearling H.S.), 5.2 points per game; Nasumbi Beard of Mansfield, point guard (Ontario H.S.), 6.6 points per game; Demi Moschetti of Perrysburg, forward/center (Perrysburg H.S.), 6.7 points per game; Jordan Floyd of Waterville, guard/forward (Anthony Wayne H.S.), 2 points per game; Renee Bidlack of Payne, forward (Wayne Trace H.S.), 4.2 points per game; Gabbie Cerovski of Hebron, guard (Lakewood H.S.), 2.4 points per game; Saige Meyer of Deshler, guard (Patrick Henry H.S.), 2.2 points per game, and Karrah Windau of Carey, forward (Carey H.S.), 3.1 points per game.

The team’s only losses this season occurred in November by a total of four points – a one-point setback to Schoolcraft College, the top-ranked team in NJCAA Division II; and a three-point loss to Hillsborough Community College, an NJCAA Division I team in Florida.

Jasmine Blanton leads Owens in scoring with a 16.6 points per game average.

This coming weekend, Owens travels to Cincinnati to face its archrival Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (14-8, 6-1) on Saturday, Feb. 6. The game begins at 1 p.m. Owens will battle Lorain County Community College (1-7, 9-12) in home action on Wednesday, Feb. 10, starting at 5:30 p.m. The Express will entertain Columbus State Community College on Saturday, Feb. 13. The home game starts at 1 p.m.

All home games are free and occur at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Announces Free Spring ‘QuickStart to College’ Program, Feb. 18 – May 6

Posted on February 5th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents are invited to explore career options and gain advice on making the first steps toward a college education as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus presents a free “QuickStart to College” program, Feb. 18 – May 6.

The free 10-week program, which is designed for first generation college attendees, low wage workers, underemployed and undereducated adults in mind, will take place on Thursdays from 12-3:50 p.m. in Room 143 on the Findlay-area Campus, which is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

In order to be eligible for the free “QuickStart to Success” program, individuals must have obtained their high school Diploma or GED. A mandatory orientation will take place in conjunction with the first day of class on Feb. 18. For more information about the “QuickStart to College” program, call (567) 429-3509 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3509.

Owens Community College Helps Students Achieve Academic Dreams With College Goal Sunday Event, Feb. 14

Posted on February 3rd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in acquiring additional information about financial aid are encouraged to participate in a free workshop where financial aid representatives from colleges and universities throughout Northwest Ohio will provide insight on securing federal and state assistance to any academic institution of higher learning. The program, known as College Goal Sunday, will be held at the Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses on Sunday, Feb. 14.

Presented by the Ohio Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (OASFAA), the state-sponsored event will focus on helping students complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application, as well as answer financial aid specific questions. College Goal Sunday begins at 2 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center on the Toledo-area Campus and in the Conference Center on the Findlay-area Campus. Families should register prior to the event by accessing the College Goal Sunday website at www.ohiocollegegoalsunday.org.

“One of the biggest roadblocks students encounter when exploring their eligibility for financial aid is the financial aid form itself,” said Betsy Johnson, Owens Director of Financial Aid. “Owens Community College and fellow academic institutions are inviting students and their parents to spend an afternoon going through the application process step-by-step with a financial aid representative during College Goal Sunday.”

Owens and other colleges and universities currently participate in several need-based federal and state funded grant programs, work study opportunities, and loans, which all require applicants to file a FAFSA form to determine financial need. Additionally, numerous scholarships are available at the various academic institutions.

Specific programs accessible to Owens students include the Federal Pell Grant, the Federal Academic Competitiveness Grant, the Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant, the Owens Community College Grant, the Federal Direct Stafford Loan, the Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan and Federal Work Study, among others.

For more information, contact the College’s Office of Financial Aid at (567) 661-7343 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7343, or (567) 429-3539 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3539.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 3rd, 2010

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

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

Rowe serves as a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments in Findlay. He attended Bowling Green State University and holds a Series 7 Securities License as well as a Life and Health Insurance License. The Findlay resident was initially appointed to the College’s Board of Trustees in March 2004. Rowe’s professional and community involvement includes the Kiwanis Club of Findlay and the United Way of Hancock County and he served as a City Councilman for ten years in Findlay. In addition, Rowe serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees Finance Committee.

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

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

Owens’ Community Terrace View CafÈ Announces Haiti Food Supply Drive Dinner, Feb. 11

Posted on February 2nd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College culinary arts program is reaching out to the victims of the earthquake that devastated Haiti by organizing a Food Relief Supply Drive in conjunction with a community banquet-style dinner at the community Terrace View CafÈ on Thursday, Feb. 11.

Presented and coordinated by the Catering and Banquet Operations class, the banquet-style dinner will take place in the College’s student-run Terrace View CafÈ and attendees will have the opportunity to partake of stuffed chicken with ginger carrots and a creamy risotto as the prepared entrÈe. The appetizer selection will feature stuffed mushrooms, while dessert will include a trio of chocolate dipped strawberry, cheesecake and a frosted sugar cookie.

In addition to the banquet-style dinner, the community Terrace View CafÈ will accept an assortment of donations to include bottled water, canned food and non-perishable food. All collected donations will then be given to the ISOH/IMPACT organization in Waterville for distribution to Haiti.

The dinner will be served promptly at 5:30 p.m. in the College’s Terrace View CafÈ, which is located in College Hall Room 148 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens’ restaurant is coordinated by the Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Department.

The Owens culinary arts program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the rapidly growing culinary arts industry. Both the associate’s degree and certificate prepares students for food preparation positions in restaurants, hotels, health care facilities, resorts and country clubs. The Catering and Banquet Operations class is designed to provide students with experiential learning related to catered events with emphasis on quality and efficiency. Classroom instruction includes the menu design and pricing, catering equipment, marketing and staffing. Additionally, planning, preparation, service and evaluation of catered events are highlighted as part of the academic curriculum.

The cost per dinner, which will be served banquet style, is only $7.50 and reservations are required. Reservations can be made by calling (567) 661-7359 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7359. Individuals can also make a reservation by accessing the College’s website at www.owens.edu/terrace.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Offers Spring Human Resource Learning System Course, Feb. 16 – May 4

Posted on February 2nd, 2010

FINDLAY – Northwest Ohio human resource professionals interested in expanding their skills and qualifications, as well as preparing for the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) exam, are invited to participate in the Human Resource Management (SHRM) Learning System Program at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus. The program begins Feb. 16 and will continue through May 4.

The class will be offered through Owens’ Workforce and Community Services on Tuesday evenings from 6-9 p.m. in the College’s Community Education and Wellness Center. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“The SHRM Learning System Program will be a great benefit to those seeking certification or to anyone desiring a comprehensive overview of human resource management issues,” said Steve Hillard, Owens Director of Sales and Program Development on the Findlay-area Campus. “Attendees will be provided with the most current information in a practical, ‘real-world’ context that is invaluable as a human resource professional.”

Topics to be covered in the class include strategic management, workforce planning and employment, human resources development, total rewards, employee and labor relations, and risk management. Attendees will receive the latest content based on legislative changes and recent developments within the human resource field.

As the human resource credentialing body founded by SHRM, HRCI promotes the establishment of standards for the profession and recognizes human resource professionals who have met the requirements for mastering the codified human resource body of knowledge. The SHRM Learning System material reflects the HRCI content outline of the body of knowledge.

The registration deadline is Feb. 10. For more information, or to enroll in the program, call (567) 429-3155 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3155.

Owens Celebrates Black History Month With Events in February

Posted on February 1st, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will celebrate Black History Month with a series of events and activities highlighting and honoring the role and impact of African Americans throughout this country’s history. The public is encouraged to join the campus community for guest speakers and educational awareness programs.

“Owens Community College is proud to celebrate the many achievements and contributions of black Americans who, throughout history, have done so much to make America the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation we know today,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Interim Provost of Owens Community College. “It is also an opportunity for Americans to learn about the experiences of black Americans in our society and the vital role this community has played throughout our shared history.”

Owens activities occurring during Black History Month include:

Wednesday, Feb. 3
“Break Beat Poetica” by Idris Goodwin
Awarding-winning playwright, poet and hip hop artist Idris Goodwin will provide a lyrical and rhythmic reflection of his journeys as an American rapper as part of a performance titled “Break Beat Poetica” at Owens. Goodwin’s performance will explore the effects of mass media in shaping the perceptions of different races and ethnicities, diversity, the differences between real community-based hip hop culture and mainstream corporatized hip hop and what it means to be an American, among many other topics. Nationally-acclaimed, Goodwin’s “break beat poetry” has been featured on Russell Simmon’s HBO series “Def Poetry” and published in the “Spoken Word Revolution Redux Anthology” as well as in many literary journals. The recipient of several grants and awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Ford Foundation and the Illinois Arts Council, Goodwin is currently an artist in residence at Iowa City’s KRUI Radio Program Artists in Action and frequently teaches, performs and lectures at academic institutions on the topic of arts, culture and empowerment.
(11 a.m.) (Toledo-area Campus Fire Science and Law Enforcement Center Rooms 145-147)

Master Class Workshop with Idris Goodwin
Awarding-winning playwright, poet and hip hop artist Idris Goodwin will provide attendees with a first-hand account into his life as an artist, teacher and an African-American male. Nationally-acclaimed, Goodwin’s “break beat poetry” has been featured on Russell Simmon’s HBO series “Def Poetry” and published in the “Spoken Word Revolution Redux Anthology” as well as in many literary journals. The recipient of several grants and awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Ford Foundation and the Illinois Arts Council, Goodwin is currently an artist in residence at Iowa City’s KRUI Radio Program Artists in Action and frequently teaches, performs and lectures at academic institutions on the topic of arts, culture and empowerment. Additionally, Goodwin’s master class workshop will allow individuals to showcase their own writing skills and performance ability in an interactive learning environment focused on creative expression.
(9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.) (Toledo-area Campus Fire Science and Law Enforcement Center Rooms 145-147)

Thursday, Feb. 4
“Break Beat Poetica” by Idris Goodwin
Awarding-winning playwright, poet and hip hop artist Idris Goodwin will provide a lyrical and rhythmic reflection of his journeys as an American rapper as part of a performance titled “Break Beat Poetica” at Owens. Goodwin’s performance will explore the effects of mass media in shaping the perceptions of different races and ethnicities, diversity, the differences between real community-based hip hop culture and mainstream corporatized hip hop and what it means to be an American, among many other topics. Nationally-acclaimed, Goodwin’s “break beat poetry” has been featured on Russell Simmon’s HBO series “Def Poetry” and published in the “Spoken Word Revolution Redux Anthology” as well as in many literary journals. The recipient of several grants and awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Ford Foundation and the Illinois Arts Council, Goodwin is currently an artist in residence at Iowa City’s KRUI Radio Program Artists in Action and frequently teaches, performs and lectures at academic institutions on the topic of arts, culture and empowerment.
(2 p.m.) (Findlay-area Campus Conference Center Room 111)

Thursday, Feb. 11
Haiti: Life, History and Culture Discussion
University of Findlay retired Professor Barry Mickey and student Guerda Julien will provide attendees with insight into the cultural history and background of Haiti and how the country has evolved through the years. The conversation topic will also highlight the impact of the devastating earthquake on the Haitian residents from both a short-term and long-term perspective.
(11 a.m.) (Findlay-area Campus Education Center Room 111)

Monday, Feb. 15
Community Essay and Poetry Jam Contest
Attendees will have the chance to express and share their thoughts in public through the use of spoken word and poetry as the College’s Black Student Union presents a Community Essay and Poetry Jam Contest.
(6 p.m.) (Toledo-area Campus Fire Science and Law Enforcement Center Rooms 145-147)

Tuesday, Feb. 16
ALMA Drum and Dance Performance
Area residents will have the opportunity to discover the vibrant world of traditional West African music and dance as the ALMA Drum and Dance Performance group showcases their many talents. Several dancing and folkloric styles will be featured as part of the performance.
(12 p.m.) (Toledo-area Campus Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda)

Black History Community Quiz Bowl (Elementary – High School)
Individuals in grades elementary through high school are invited to test their mental capacity and intellectual skills within various topics related to black history as the Owens Black Student Union serves as host to a “Jeopardy” style community quiz bowl.
(6 p.m.) (Toledo-area Campus Fire Science and Law Enforcement Center Rooms 145-147)

Wednesday, Feb. 17
Black History Community Quiz Bowl (Colleges and Universities)
Area residents attending area colleges and universities will have the opportunity to test their mental capacity and intellectual skills within various topics related to black history as the Owens Black Student Union serves as host to a “Jeopardy” style community quiz bowl.
(6 p.m.) (Toledo-area Campus Fire Science and Law Enforcement Center Rooms 145-147)

Thursday, Feb. 18
“To Kill a Mockingbird” Movie Presentation and Discussion
Individuals are invited to view a screening of the Oscar awarding-winning film “To Kill a Mockingbird” as part of the College’s Black History Month celebration. Based on Harper Lee’s book of 1960, “To Kill a Mockingbird” features Atticus Finch as a lawyer in a radically divided Alabama town in the 1930s. He agrees to defend a young black man who is accused of raping a white woman during a time when prejudice views are highly prevalent. A discussion about diversity and racism will take place at the film’s conclusion.
(3:30 p.m.) (Findlay-area Campus Conference Center Room 111)

Thursday, Feb. 19
Karen Durrant’s Dreamgirls
Individuals will have the opportunity to take a trip back in time to the magical sounds of the 1960s, 70s and 80s made famous by such nationally-known female artists as Tina Turner, Martha Reeves, Gladys Knight, Donna Summer and The Pointer Sisters as emerging nationally-recognized performer Karen Durrant brings to life their classic and timeless songs. Honoring some of the most talented ladies in musical history, Durrant’s Dreamgirls performance will feature many of the artists’ crowd-pleasing favorites highlighted by authentic costumes, choreography and big studio sound that conjure thoughts of musical past.
(8 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre)

Personal Finance and Money Management Workshop
Area residents are invited to receive insight into the importance of making sound financial decisions as the College’s Black Student Union hosts a Personal Finance and Money Market Workshop. Baccus Holdings Inc. will serve as the presenting organization.
(6 p.m.) (Toledo-area Campus Fire Science and Law Enforcement Center Rooms 145-147)

Sunday, March 28
African-American Small Business Awards Celebration
Longstanding area African-American businesses will be honored for their entrepreneurial excellence, exceptional service and dedication to the surrounding communities, as well as perseverance through economic instability, as part of the second annual African-American Small Business Awards Celebration. The event is being presented by the College’s Black Student Union.
(5 p.m.) (Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128)

In addition, Owens’ libraries on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will display a variety of African-American heritage information, as well as feature a selection of books and audio/visual materials related to Black History Month in February. Also, artwork of five Owens students is currently on display at the 20 North Gallery in downtown Toledo as part of their annual Black History Month Exhibit through March 6.

To celebrate and honor the contributions made by African Americans throughout America’s history, longtime black history advocate Dr. Carter G. Woodson introduced Negro History Week to the country in 1926. Later changed to Black History Week, the observance was extended in 1976 to a month-long celebration occurring in February and renamed Black History Month.

For additional information about Owens’ Black History Month activities, call (567) 661-7421 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7421.

Owens Community College Unveils New Faculty Development Center

Posted on January 28th, 2010

Owens’ Lauren Ferguson demonstrates the new SmartBoard technology in the Faculty Development Center.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Center for Teaching and Learning Success representatives recently joined the campus community to officially open the doors to the latest innovative academic resources on the Toledo-area Campus as the academic institution unveiled a new Faculty Development Center.

“Owens Community College’s new Faculty Development Center is dedicated to serving our students and the surrounding communities by providing faculty members and Owens representatives working with students with centralized resources and services that support and promote service, learning, innovation, collaboration and excellence,” said Verne Walker, Owens Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning Success.

Owens Special Projects Coordinator Lauren Ferguson added, “This new educational area will support and promote teaching and learning success at the highest level through an array of professional development opportunities that are focused on fostering innovation and academic excellence.”

The College’s new Faculty Development Center features the latest in state-of-the-art technology and innovative educational resources for enhancing teaching and learning.

Resources and services available within the Faculty Development Center will include an array of workshops, seminars and programs that are focused on technology integration within the classroom and professional development specific to leadership, creative thinking, scholarly innovation, and teaching and learning strategies and practices. Among the professional development opportunities are online teaching and learning, grant writing, classroom assessment, program level assessment, teaching methodologies, academic course design/syllabus, social networking, podcasting/vodcasting, self-evaluations, smart technology and online new faculty orientation.

In addition, Owens’ Faculty Development Center will feature the latest in state-of-the-art technology and innovative educational resources for enhancing teaching and learning highlighted by eight HP Elitebook 8530P Notebook PCs, seven Cyber Acoustics ACM-70 Headphones, four Logitech Webcams Pro 9000, two Epson Perfection V300 Photo Color Scanners, five Wacom Bamboo Fun Pen Tablets, four eInstruction Interwrite Pads, TurningPoint Technology Clickers, an HP Laptop Charging Station, an HP Laptop with projector for presentations and a SmartBoard, among other technological equipment.

Owens Community College Hosts Auditions for Upcoming Theatre Production, Feb. 1-2

Posted on January 28th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in performing in the upcoming student production of the “And The Winner Is” are invited to open theatre auditions at Owens Community College, Feb. 1-2.

Auditions will take place Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 1-2, from 6-9 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre Room 111. Callback auditions will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 3. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Each individual is encouraged to prepare a monologue as part of the audition or a monologue will be provided for them. The theatre production dates are April 8-11.

Attendees are required to make an appointment prior to the audition dates. For more information, or to make an appointment, call (567) 661-2798 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2798.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Features ‘Personal Spaces: Imagined Worlds’ Exhibit, Jan. 28 – Feb. 11

Posted on January 25th, 2010

Andrew Maurer’s painting titled “Mall” is among the many artistic expressions on display as part of the Library Gallery’s “Personal Spaces: Imagined Worlds” exhibit.

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery continues its 2009-10 art exhibition season with the works of local artist Andrew Maurer. The exhibit titled “Personal Spaces: Imagined Worlds” will showcase Mauer’s unique style of capturing the urban landscape through vivid, acrylic paintings, Jan. 28 – Feb. 11.

In addition, the College will host a reception and gallery talk for Mauer on Friday, Jan. 29 from 6-8 p.m. The reception, which is free and open to the public, will take place in the Findlay-area Campus Library. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery is excited to present this masterful exhibit which showcases the many talents of Andrew Maurer,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “Andrew is a young artist who is assembling the classical framework of training in preparation for a lifetime in art. He has a strong personal style, heavy on shape, movement and color.”

McCain added, “His artistic themes are all about building a community, dwelling by dwelling, although exhibit attendees will have to open their minds and look closely to see these themes come to life.”

Maurer’s detailed artistic expressions are known for bringing alive the urban landscape through the use of an array of abstract shapes and vibrant colors. Additionally, his paintings place emphasis on the complexities of a structure and how the use of various shapes and materials play a pivotal role in defining the building’s unique characteristics.

A 2002 Findlay High School graduate, Maurer holds a bachelor’s degree in drawing and printmaking from the University of Toledo. While in college, he was named to recipient of several grants which enabled him to present two bodies of artwork at research conferences in Lexington, Va. and San Rafael, Calif. In addition, Maurer was commissioned by the academic institution to lead the design and installation of a permanent mural in Rocket Hall.

Many of Maurer’s artistic expressions have been exhibited publicly in shows highlighted by an appearance at the Toledo Museum of Art, among others. The Findlay native also worked as a studio artist in Findlay’s Jones Building for two years. Maurer is currently pursuing his master’s degree in printmaking from Indiana University.

Owens Workforce and Community Services Announces New Community Wind Installation Training Program, Feb. 1-22

Posted on January 25th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services is once again expanding its educational opportunities within renewable energy by announcing the creation of a new community Wind Installation Training Program. Individuals interested in expanding their knowledge about potential energy efficiencies related to wind installation or a future career as a wind turbine installer can register for the initial 40-hour class, which is taking place Feb. 1-22.

The new Wind Installation Training Program course will occur Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

“Owens Community College Workforce and Community Services is committed to supporting the advancement of alternative and renewable energy through cutting-edge academic programming,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “Wind energy is emerging as a viable option from an energy efficiency standpoint for both commercial business and residential home consumption. Northwest Ohio has the potential of becoming a leader within the wind energy industry and Owens is poised to play a significant role from an economic development perspective through community outreach educational services and experiential learning opportunities.”

Individuals attending Owens’ new training program will receive instruction within the areas of installation, operation and maintenance of wind turbines. Course content includes training in wind measurement, system terminology and connection to a power grid, among other areas. Installation practices related to installation safety, basics of electricity, interconnection with the utility, siting, battery metering, and load management and energy efficiency are also highlighted.

Additionally, the hands-on applications will include the design and installation of the College’s new 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine, which is located on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. Owens’ recently-installed wind turbine is a fully integrated, utility-connected wind generator designed specifically for residential and small commercial businesses. In addition to its instructional utilization, the 2.4-kilowatt wind turbine generator is used to convert wind power into electricity for regular operational purposes within the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building.

Wind Installation Training Program students will also receive experiential training on Owens’ 120-foot EW50 wind turbine, which is also adjacent to the Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building on the Toledo-area Campus.

For more information, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357. Space is limited and individuals are encouraged to register for the class as soon as possible due to program’s popularity.

Owens Community College Announces Fall Academic Honors

Posted on January 25th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – More than 3,400 students were named to the Academic Honors List at Owens Community College for Fall Semester 2009. Students must achieve at least a 3.5 grade point average to be eligible for academic honors. Owens uses a 4.0 scale in grading.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Presents Free ‘Fremont U.S.A’ Documentary Film Screening, Jan. 27

Posted on January 22nd, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents are invited to explore immigrant civic engagement and interfaith relations and its impact on a California city known for its diversity as Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus’ Office of Student Activities presents a free screening and discussion of the documentary film “Fremont U.S.A” on Wednesday, Jan. 27.

The film will be shown at 2 p.m. in the College’s Conference Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Produced and directed by Rachel Antell and Elinor Pierce, the documentary film “Fremont U.S.A.” is part of Harvard University’s decade-long Pluralism Project, which was dedicated to engaging students in studying the new religious diversity in the United States. The Pluralism Project began their pioneering study of America’s changing religious landscape in 1991 and since that time has documented the contours of the country’s multi-religious society, explored new forms of interfaith engagement and studied the impact of religious diversity in civic life. In 2000, the Pluralism Project expanded their study of pluralism to other multi-religious societies.

“Fremont U.S.A” was inspired after initial research into the unique religious diversity and interfaith relations found in Fremont, Calif. Incorporated in 1956, Fremont has experienced significant growth by new immigration and to date has over 140 different countries represented within its city limits. As a result, the religious diversity includes Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism and Christianity, among others. Additionally, Fremont is home to the Peace Terrace, where Muslims and Christians have built places of worship on adjacent parcels of land.

Through civic engagement and interfaith action, strangers have become neighbors in this American city, which is evident in the 56-minute documentary. Yet Fremont has also faced real challenges, especially after 9/11 when a Muslim woman was murdered and the public reaction initially focused on a potential hate crime. The film then investigates how Fremont came together in the midst of civil unrest, highlighted by community members of all religions reaching out to the murdered victim’s family and the Muslim community. Since it was released in December 2008, “Fremont U.S.A” has garnered critically-acclaimed attention and has been show at high schools, colleges and universities, houses of worship, community centers and interfaith centers nationwide.

In addition, open discussion will take place at the documentary film’s conclusion. For more information about the film screening, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Community College Announces Spring LEGO Engineering Program, Feb. 2-24

Posted on January 22nd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area youth ages 5 through 12 are invited to explore science, mathematics and creative thinking through the use of LEGO materials as the Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services offers spring LEGO Engineering Program classes, Feb. 2-24.

The spring LEGO Engineering Program classes will be offered through Workforce and Community Services, which is located at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

“Owens Community College’s LEGO Engineering Program continues to serve as one of the most popular continuing education programs among children and parents and we look forward to expanding these and other academic course offerings, which promote science, mathematics and creative thinking in a fun, engaging environment,” said Rhonda Hogrefe, Owens Continuing Education and Community Service Account Representative.

The College’s LEGO Engineering Program will offer two classes in February. The first class, titled Junior LEGO Engineering, will feature age-appropriate projects that use simple machines, including fixed and movable pulleys, gears and belt drives. The Junior LEGO class, for ages 5 through 7, will occur Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m., Feb. 2-23. Owens’ second class, for ages 8 through 12, is titled LEGO Engineering. The course, which will occur Wednesdays from 6-8 p.m., Feb. 3-24, will focus on more intricate projects that use gear mathematics, ratchets, drive trains and motorized systems.

Students in both classes will use LEGO Educational Division materials and LEGO Technic elements as part of the experiential learning program.

Registration for each LEGO Engineering Program class is $89. For more information, or to register for either class, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Hosts Free Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator, Jan. 28

Posted on January 22nd, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents interested in experiencing the virtual world of drunk driving and its many dangers are invited to attend a free Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator Awareness Program at Owens Community College on Thursday, Jan. 28.

Presented by the P.E.E.R.S. (Professionals Encouraging Educational Reform Statewide) organization and the College’s Office of Student Activities, the free Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator Awareness Program will occur from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the Community Education and Wellness Center Room 125 on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again work with P.E.E.R.S. and provide this unique community outreach opportunity for students and area residents to expand their knowledge about the dangers of drinking and driving,” said James Katzner, Owens Manager of Student Activities and Conduct.

The actual P.E.E.R.S. AWARE III Simulation System is a portable automobile road simulator which emulates real road driving conditions. It facilitates training and assessment of drivers in the actual vehicle and realistically shows individuals the dangers of drinking and driving. Participants are seated within an actual automobile and utilize virtual reality goggles to fully immerse themselves in the simulation program. The scenery is computer-generated by virtual reality software, which receives data from the wheels and pedals of the vehicle to provide an interactive experience recreating a variety of driving conditions. Individuals initially drive the automobile simulator sober through various scenarios chosen at random by the program, such as driving in the rain and on crowded highways and exits.

At the conclusion of the first simulation, the program advances to an alcohol driving stage in which the participant’s body type, gender and drinks per hour are taken into account. Individuals then drive the automobile simulator from an intoxicated perspective. During the second simulation, infractions caused as a result of the participant’s reckless driving are recorded. At the program’s conclusion, the simulation displays the person’s blood alcohol level and every infraction caused as a result of drinking and driving. Additionally, individuals have the opportunity to watch the simulation from a passenger’s point-of-view on monitors around the simulator.

The P.E.E.R.S. organization also provides literature on drunk driving and presents an impact video highlighting accidents caused by alcohol and the after effects on victims and their families.

In addition, the free Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator Awareness Program will be held on the College’s Toledo-area Campus on Wednesday, Jan. 27. The simulation program will occur from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center. For more information about the Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator Awareness Program, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Foundation Helps Students Achieve Academic Dreams through 2010-11 Scholarship Program Opportunities

Posted on January 22nd, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Foundation is investing in Northwest Ohio’s educational future by making available thousands of dollars in scholarship opportunities as part of the academic institution’s 2010-11 Scholarship Program.

Through the generosity of businesses and individuals within the surrounding communities, the Owens Foundation will offer current and future students the opportunity to apply for over 50 available scholarships for the upcoming 2010-11 academic year. Scholarship applicants must complete and return the application to the Office of Financial Aid on either the Toledo-area or Findlay-area campus by Friday, Feb. 26. Scholarship award notification will begin in April and will continue until all awards have been made.

For scholarships based on financial need, a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application for the 2010-11 academic year must be on file in the College’s Office of Financial Aid by Friday, Feb. 26. FAFSA and Foundation Scholarship Program forms are available in the College’s Office of Financial Aid or can be downloaded by accessing the Owens website at www.owens.edu.

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

This past academic year, Owens provided more than $80.5 million in grants, scholarships, loans and federal work study to support the educational needs of students. For more information on the various scholarship opportunities, call (567) 661-7603 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7603.

Owens Toledo-area Campus Hosts Free Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator, Jan 27

Posted on January 21st, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in experiencing the virtual world of drunk driving and its many dangers are invited to attend a free Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator Awareness Program at Owens Community College on Wednesday, Jan. 27.

Presented by the P.E.E.R.S. (Professionals Encouraging Educational Reform Statewide) organization and the College’s Office of Student Activities, the free Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator Awareness Program will occur from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again work with P.E.E.R.S. and provide this unique community outreach opportunity for area residents to expand their knowledge about the dangers of drinking and driving,” said John Byers, Owens Manager of Student Involvement.

The P.E.E.R.S. organization also provides literature on drunk driving and presents an impact video highlighting accidents caused by alcohol and the after effects on victims and their families.

In addition, the free Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator Awareness Program will be held on the College’s Findlay-area Campus on Thursday, Jan. 28. The simulation program will occur from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the Community Education and Wellness Center Room 125. For more information about the Virtual Reality DUI/DWI Auto Simulator Awareness Program, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Owens Student Leaders Inducted Into Fall Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society

Posted on January 20th, 2010

Owens students were recently honored for their excellence with induction into the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students recently were honored for their excellence in higher education, earning membership into the Alpha Omega Pi Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society for the Fall Semester. Owens’ chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society is one of the largest in Ohio.

Phi Theta Kappa was established in 1918 by the presidents of eight Missouri junior colleges for women. In 1924, the international organization was expanded to include all two-year colleges. To date, more than one million individuals have been inducted into the international honor society.

The overall mission of Phi Theta Kappa is to recognize academic excellence among two-year college students, provide opportunities for leadership training and an intellectual climate for the exchange of ideas and ideals. In addition, the society continues to promote among its members the four standard hallmarks: scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship.

“Owens Community College is extremely proud of our inductees for their dedication and commitment to higher education,” said Dr. Chuck Bohleke, Owens Chair of Business Technologies and Co-Advisor. “Induction into the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society is considered one of the highest compliments an individual in higher education can receive. Their selection is a tremendous achievement.”

Selection criterion for students receiving the honor is based upon enrollment in a two-year college, completing a minimum number of course hours set forth by the individual chapter, achieving a minimum 3.5 grade point average and exemplifying academic excellence, as determined by faculty.

The Alpha Omega Pi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society student inductees for the 2009 Fall Semester are:

Kimberly Alonso of Carleton, Mich.	(registered nursing)
Emily Anderson of Swanton	(undecided)
Brenda Ball of Holland	(registered nursing)
Fatima Barakat of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Kristin Barkimer of Columbus Grove	(dental hygiene)
Stefan Bradstreet of Stony Ridge	(English)
Mary Brown of Delta	(accounting)
Tiffany Cabacum of Maumee	(communications studies)
Lorenzo Carrion-Bistolf of Northwood	(international business)
Rachel Rui Cashen of Maumee	(pre-medical imaging)
Aaron Christopherson of Cygnet	(networking and information systems support)
Christopher Combs of Toledo	(business management)
Matthew Cook of Perrysburg	(fine art)
Jennifer Cooper of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Laura Coury of Toledo	(accounting)
Camella Cramer of Toledo	(early childhood education)
Abigail Crosby of Whitehouse	(commercial art technology)
Ashley Davidson of Bettsville	(dental hygiene)
Carol Doll of Luckey	(registered nursing)
Maria Dugan of Sylvania	(pre-medical imaging)
Eric Eberly of Bowling Green	(small business management)
Chad Fairbanks of Luckey	(pre-physical therapist assistant)
Janet Fennell of Swanton	(pre-nursing)
Mark Fosgate of Elmore	(networking and information systems support)
Beatrice Garcia of Toledo	(pre-nursing)
Nicolas Garcia of Perrysburg	(business management)
Janette Gargac of Northwood	(medical office support)
Shane Garver of Toledo	(pre-physical therapist assistant)
Deidra Gehr of Maumee	(theatre)
Jennifer Genson of Rossford	(massage therapy)
Lori Gombash of Perrysburg	(cancer information management)
Darlene Grey of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Kirk Hallett of Toledo	(pre-business administration)
Susan Haugh of Findlay	(photography)
Kevin Haynes of Toledo	(associate of technical studies)
Angela Heckman of Maumee	(pre-radiography)
Eric Hennan of Perrysburg	(business management)
Wendy Hoevemeyer of Monroe, Mich.	(biology)
Matthew Hubert of Toledo	(adolescence education)
Stevilyn Huffman of Toledo	(accounting)
Jennifer Jagielski of Toledo	(licensed practical nursing)
Latosha Johnson of Toledo	(pre-nursing)
Nicholas Komives of Toledo	(associate of arts, general concentration)
Casie Kosier of Swanton	(pre-physical therapist assistant)
Renee Kromenacker of Oregon	(pre-physical therapist assistant)
Aaron Kuhlman of Rossford	(computer programming)
Allison LaCourse of Ottawa Lake, Mich.	(communications studies)
Rebekah Lahey of Perrysburg	(occupational therapy assistant)
Sarah Lawson of Toledo	(medical assistant)
Timothy Lester of Toledo	(business management)
Tanya Luth-Hall of Grand Rapids	(occupational therapy assistant)
Stephanie Matthews of Delta	(registered nursing)
Macon Mauchmar of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Kathryn McCray of Toledo	(pre-business administration)
Angela Mintz of Perrysburg	(registered nursing)
Veronica Neill of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Stephen Nowicki of Toledo	(associate of technical studies)
Amanda Peters of Toledo	(business management)
Justin Power of Toledo	(history)
Nicholas Ragan of Woodville	(communication studies)
Dina Ray of Toledo	(pre-physical therapist assistant)
Jennifer Reinhart of Luna Peir, Mich.	(middle childhood education)
Blanca Romero of Toledo	(medical office support)
Audrey Ruhm of Maumee	(registered nursing)
John Sellers of Maumee	(accounting)
Kristine Shaffer of Continental	(hospitality management)
Derek Shikwana of Holland	(theatre)
Nicole Slawinski of Toledo	(pre-medical imaging)
Christen Souders of Toledo	(accounting)
Kevin Souders of Sylvania	(pre-professional engineering)
Loretta Starkey of Toledo	(accounting software application)
Kimberly Suttles of Toledo	(commercial art technology)
Stacy Szymanski of Toledo	(criminal justice technology)
Veronica Tanner of Toledo	(pre-nursing)
Larry Taylor of Toledo	(criminal justice technology)
James Thacker of Bowling Green	(associate of arts, general concentration)
Jillian Thomas of Grand Rapids	(health information technology)
Jessica Torda of Toledo	(occupational therapy assistant)
Austin Trychel of Temperance, Mich.	(electrical)
Alys Vollmar of Curtice	(international studies)
Holly Waingrow of Lakeside Marblehead	(radiography)
Stacey Warnecke of Ottawa	(radiography)
Jeremy Warner of Findlay	(mechanical engineering technology)
Mark Webner of Oregon	(registered nursing)
Ashley Wenning of Perrysburg	(associate of science, general concentration)
Nicholas Widman of Perrysburg	(business management)
Thomas Wilkins of Perrysburg	(associate of science, general concentration)
Fanell Williams of Toledo	(social work)
Scott Williams of Waterville	(pre-medical imaging)

Owens Workforce and Community Services Offers Stained Glass Window Panel Class, Jan. 26 – Feb. 2

Posted on January 20th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents desiring the bright look of one-of-a-kind stained glass creations in their home or to give to family and friends are invited to a two-day Stained Glass Window Panel Class at Owens Community College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center, Jan. 26 – Feb. 2.

The class will take place on consecutive Tuesdays, Jan. 26 and Feb. 2, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee. No previous experience in glasswork is necessary.

“Owens Community College’s Stained Glass Window Panel Class provides a great educational venue for individuals of all ages and skill levels in stained glasswork to showcase their artistic abilities in glass making,” said Rhonda Hogrefe, Owens Continuing Education and Community Service Account Representative. “Class participants will be amazed by what they are able to create in a matter of six hours.”

Hogrefe added, “Owens instructor Steve Noblet, who has over 20 years of experience as a professional stained glass designer craftsman, does a wonderful job of assisting every attendee in being able to take home a phenomenal finished product that they will be proud to display.”

During the stained glass window panel class, attendees will have the opportunity to make a stained glass window panel that can be hung in their home. Class participants will be able to choose from six different styles of window panels and a variety of colored glass. In addition, they will learn the skills of cutting, foiling and soldering as they make their own window panel.

Owens’ Workforce and Community Services is dedicated to providing customer-driven workforce development, job training and continuing education for business, industry and area residents throughout Northwest Ohio. Workforce and Community Services’ learning-centered approach focuses on developing and enhancing professional skills to meet the needs of the community, customizing academic curriculum in the areas of professional development, computer and software applications, health and fitness, artful living, personal development, real estate, children’s programming, and apprenticeship-related training and skilled trades.

The registration fee for the workshop is $79 and includes supplies. For more information, or to register for the class, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Dental Program Offers Free Dental Services for Children During Give Kids A Smile Day, Feb. 5

Posted on January 20th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Oral hygiene, X-rays and fillings will be the focus of free dental appointments at Owens Community College as more than 150 area elementary and high school students’ teeth are transformed to pearly whites during the nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day on Friday, Feb. 5.

Owens’ Dental Hygiene program, in collaboration with the Toledo Dental Society, will be offering a day of free dental services for “at-risk” children ages six months to 18 from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m. at the College’s Dental Hygiene Clinic. The clinic is located in Health Technologies Hall on the Toledo-area Campus.

Additionally, Toledo Dental Society dentists and Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary will provide restorative treatments such as fillings and extractions for patients on Feb. 12 from 1-4 p.m.

“Owens Community College’s Dental Hygiene program is proud to once again participate in such a worthwhile endeavor and provide dental services to individuals in need,” said Beth Tronolone, Owens Chair of Dental Hygiene. “Give Kids A Smile Day is also a wonderful opportunity to raise the importance and awareness of preventive dental care such as flossing, brushing and regular dental visits. Our goal is give each attendee a positive dental experience and help them feel comfortable smiling again.”

Owens Dental Hygiene second-year students, faculty and alumni, and area dentists, as well as Penta Career Center faculty and students, will be conducting dental services, which will include dental education and screening, X-rays, oral prophylaxis (cleanings), limited restorations and dental sealants. In addition, first-year students from the health program will provide educational presentations for parents and children.

Individuals interested in receiving free dental service are encouraged to contact the College’s Dental Hygiene Clinic at (567) 661-7294 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7294. Appointment reservations must be made prior to the event.

Owens Dedicates New Arrowhead Park Learning Center

Posted on January 19th, 2010

Owens’ new Arrowhead Park Learning Center will provide expanded educational opportunities for area residents in Western Lucas County.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents along with community leaders and public officials recently were provided the opportunity to receive a firsthand look at Owens Community College’s new Arrowhead Park Learning Center as the academic institution officially opened the doors to the new educational complex in Western Lucas County.

During the festivities, attendees were given the chance to tour the newly renovated facility, as well as learn about Owens’ many educational opportunities. Owens’ new Arrowhead Park Learning Center is located at 1724 Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

“Owens Community College is committed to meeting the education and training needs of the surrounding communities in Northwest Ohio,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “The Arrowhead Park Learning Center will enable the College’s Workforce and Community Services to broaden its workforce development and training programs for area businesses and students and further support local economic growth and vitality within the region.”

Owens Vice President of Student Services Dr. Bill Ivoska added, “As an academic institution, Owens Community College is continuously looking for opportunities to provide greater access to higher education. Situated within close proximity to the Interstate-475 corridor, the new Arrowhead Park Learning Center opens new doors to an Owens education within the Western Lucas County region.”

Owens officials, community leaders and public officials opened the new Arrowhead Park Learning Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Individuals assisting with the ribbon cutting ceremony included (L to R) Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Director of Capital Planning Tom Horrall, Ohio State Representative Randy Gardner, Owens Board of Trustees Vice Chair Dee Talmage, Maumee Mayor Timothy Wagener, Owens Interim President Dr. Larry McDougle, Owens Board of Trustees Dr. Ron McMaster, Owens Board of Trustees John Ault, Owens Board of Trustees R J Molter and Owens Board of Trustees Allan Libbe.

The new Arrowhead Park location will provide an array academic course options for students with aspirations of pursuing their associate’s degree or certificate from Owens. Academic courses available to students during the current Spring Semester include accounting, astronomy, business, climate and weather, economics, English, government, health science, humanities, information systems, leadership, marketing and sales, mathematics, office administration, psychology, sociology, Spanish and speech.

Additionally, the Arrowhead Park Learning Center serves as the new home to the College’s Workforce and Community Services.

The renovated 24,665 square-foot site in Arrowhead Park features 13 classrooms, four computer laboratories, 19 offices, one reception area and one state tested nursing assistant laboratory, all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to provide expanded educational choices and options that meet the current and future needs of students and businesses throughout the region.

Each academic classroom is equipped with multimedia capability, while the computer laboratories feature the latest in computing resources for educational training instruction. The state tested nursing assistant laboratory houses state-of-the-art technology and academic resources that prepare students for careers as nurse assistants. Additionally, individuals are able to use an array of software applications and programming languages within the laboratories as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

Designed by the firm The Collaborative Inc. in Toledo, the exterior of the building features a tan color over the existing single-story masonry structure as well as a signature Owens logo atop the complex’s main entrance. Program Solutions Group LLC in Perrysburg served as the project manager.

Owens Interim President Dr. Larry McDougle provided comments to attendees at the Arrowhead Park Learning Center Grand Opening Celebration.

In addition to offering higher education on its Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens within the last two years has expanded its access to educational opportunities within Northwest Ohio through the creation of new on-site academic and support services at The Source, Lucas County’s One-Stop Employment Center in downtown Toledo.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Reschedules Home Game Against Glen Oaks, Jan. 25

Posted on January 19th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball home game originally scheduled for Dec. 30 against Glen Oaks Community College will occur on Monday, Jan. 25. The Express will play at 5 p.m.

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express has amassed an overall record of 15-2 and is 2-0 (first place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. Llanas’ team is currently on an eight-game winning and is ranked No. 7 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball poll.

For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Students Aid Haiti Earthquake Victims With Disaster Relief Supply Drive, Jan. 19-29

Posted on January 15th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students are reaching out to the victims of the earthquake that devastated Haiti by organizing a Disaster Relief Supply Drive on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Jan. 19-29.

Items being collected include bottled water, canned food, non-perishable food, new blankets, manual can openers, diapers, wipes and baby care supplies, five-gallon buckets with lids, rubber gloves and masks, paper towels, toilet paper, flashlights, batteries, large trash bags and duct tape, among other supplies.

“Haiti and its citizens have experienced tremendous losses that will be felt for years to come,” said Nicole Lance, Owens Student Disaster Relief Supply Drive Coordinator. “I encourage individuals to help those devastated by this terrible earthquake by donating to Owens Community College’s Disaster Relief Supply Drive or another charitable cause specific to the relief efforts.”

Owens has set up a variety of collection points around the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Area residents can drop off their charitable donations on the Toledo-area Campus at the Student Health and Activities Center, College Hall Bookstore, College Hall Fireside Grill and the Audio/Visual Classroom Center. On the Findlay-area Campus, collection points are in the College’s Commons area.

At the conclusion of the supply drive, all disaster relief items will be donated to the ISOH/IMPACT organization in Waterville for distribution in Haiti.

Additionally, monetary donations are being accepted through Missions International of America, which is helping directly in the caring for those affected by the earthquake devastation. For more information, or to make a donation, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Owens Express Softball Student-Athletes and Coaches to Help Needy Families at Oregon Food For Thought, Jan. 18

Posted on January 15th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Express women’s softball team will be providing a helping hand to those in need during this coming Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday as 20 student-athletes and coaches volunteer their time at Food For Thought on Monday, Jan. 18.

Beginning at 9 a.m., the softball team will be painting the waiting room, assembling survival backpacks for the homeless, and stocking and sorting food items at the organization’s Food Pantry, which is located in New Harvest Christian Church (3540 Seaman Rd.) in Oregon. In addition, Owens’ student-athletes and coaches will be separating non-perishable food and basic hygiene items for eventual delivery to needy families and individuals in Haiti as part the relief efforts.

“Community service is about helping others and Owens Community College’s Softball Program is proud to lend a hand to the Food For Thought organization,” said Duane Lanham, Owens Head Coach of the Women’s Softball Program. “It is important for our student-athletes to become societal contributors and engage in community outreach and service. There are many families who are struggling with such basic needs as food. Our student-athletes and coaches are honored to play a small role in Food For Thoughts’ efforts to eliminate hunger and to make a positive difference in the lives those who are less fortunate.”

The Express women’s softball completed the 2009 season with a 27-13 overall record and captured its seventh Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (8-0 record) title in the program’s history. Led by Head Coach Duane Lanham, Owens lost to Lansing Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships. The softball team will be volunteering at Food for Thought in Oregon until 2 p.m.

Food For Thought in Oregon was founded with the overall mission of assisting the needy through the organization’s stationary food pantry, mobile food pantry and picnic program. Six days per week, Food For Thought is dedicated to providing community outreach services to thousands of individuals as part of their efforts to increase access to food for hungry people.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Announces GED Regional Testing Center February Schedule

Posted on January 14th, 2010

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents interested in enhancing basic skills in English or math, or improving employment skills, are encouraged to attend free GED educational opportunities in February at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus.

Additionally, all students must attend an orientation meeting before receiving GED Preparation classroom instruction. Students need to attend both orientation dates. Orientations are offered on Monday, Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and on Tuesday, Feb. 9 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. in Room 162, and on Thursday, Feb. 11 from 6-8 p.m. and on Friday, Feb. 12 from 6-8 p.m. in Room 162. Registration for orientations is not necessary.

The official Ohio GED examination is administered at Owens on one designated day per month. The College’s next official testing date is on Saturday, Feb. 6. GED testing will begin at 7:15 a.m. on the Findlay-area Campus.

For more information on the many GED educational opportunities, call (567) 429-3547 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3547.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Student-Athlete Named NJCAA National Player of the Week

Posted on January 14th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball student-athlete Jasmine Blanton of Toledo (pre-physical therapist assistant major) has been selected as the NJCAA Division II National Player of the Week for her efforts in helping the Express secure four victories during the holiday season.

Blanton, a Notre Dame Academy graduate, averaged 18 points and 8.2 rebounds in victories over Alpena Community College 106-61, Mott Community College 75-61, Jackson Community College 83-51 and Lake Michigan Community College 83-64. The honor by the freshman guard is the second in the history of the women’s basketball program. Former Owens women’s basketball student-athlete and now Assistant Coach Melanie Schroeder achieved the honor in 2007.

This coming weekend, Owens will travel to Columbus where they will square off against Columbus State Community College (10-7, 1-1) on Saturday, Jan. 16. The game begins at 1 p.m.

Owens Community College Closed for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Jan. 18

Posted on January 14th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will be closed on Monday, Jan. 18 in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed for business.

Classes will resume and administrative offices will be open again on Tuesday, Jan. 19.

Owens Community College Students Inducted Into Fall Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society

Posted on January 12th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students were recently recognized for their academic excellence and leadership within the community, earning membership into the Gamma Zeta Chapter of the Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society.

The Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society was founded at West Chester University of Pennsylvania in 1989 in response to the increasing need to acknowledge the continuing successes of students within the academic institution’s academic development program. Recognizing that students who share similar experiences could serve as models for others, founder Dr. Elbert Saddler proposed a Greek letter honor society. In 2001, Chi Alpha Epsilon received official endorsement from the National Association for Developmental Education. Today, there are over 150 chapters of the national honor society.

The honor society promotes continued high academic standards, fosters communication among its members and encourages community service and participation in academic support programs where individuals may serve as role models to entering students.

“Owens Community College’s Gamma Zeta Chapter of Chi Alpha Epsilon is extremely proud to recognize the academic achievements of students who enter college through non-traditional criteria,” said Sharon Badenhop, Owens Associate Professor of English and Co-Adviser of Chi Alpha Epsilon. “The inductees are outstanding young men and women, many of whom have defied the odds and overcome obstacles in pursuit of a college education. This honor society provides such a means to encourage, motivate and reward individuals for continuing to grow and develop into role models for fellow students.”

Selection criterion for acceptance into the honor society is based upon students achieving a 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average for two consecutive full-time semesters or three-four part-time semesters. In addition, individuals must have taken at least one developmental education course at Owens. The College’s chapter was founded in April 2006.

The Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society student inductees for the 2009 Fall Semester are:

Stacy Adya of Sylvania	(registered nursing)
Brenda Ball of Holland	(registered nursing)
Lisa Ball of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Joshua Barnett of Toledo	(landscape and turfgrass management)
Angelica Breeding of Maumee	(diagnostic medical sonography)
Tyler Brumbaugh of Findlay	(small business management)
Ali Cheaib of Toledo	(criminal justice technology)
Jill Cherry of Haskins	(business administration)
Byron Church of Fostoria	(adolescence education)
Meghan Collins of Walbridge	(dental hygiene)
Kamika Davis of Toledo	(occupational therapy assistant)
Jonathan DeVol of Lambertville, Mich.	(criminal justice technology)
Tammi Diemer of Ottawa	(registered nursing)
David Dunn of Toledo	(criminal justice technology)
Jess Feusner of Findlay	(business management)
Aubrey Forche of Toledo	(accounting)
Theresa Fraley of Findlay	(dietetics technician)
Karen Golus of Bowling Green	(environmental management technology)
Whitney Hoertz of Maumee	(international business)
Quinn Hoover of Perrysburg	(physical therapist assistant)
Danyelle Hoschar of Findlay	(heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration)
Crystal Hubbard of Toledo	(accounting)
Jayne Johnoff of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Cheryl Johnson of Toledo	(registered nursing)
David Keller of Toledo	(information systems)
Aaron Konwinski of Holland	(marketing and sales)
Hilary Largent of Toledo	(criminal justice technology)
Nicole Linke of Maumee	(registered nursing)
Melissa Lojewski of Walbridge	(dental hygiene)
Stephen Long of Gibsonburg	(nuclear medicine)
Joseph Mackey of Curtice	(business management)
Marife Manimtim of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Keri Marten of Bowling Green	(criminal justice technology)
Maria Martinez of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Rafael Martinez of Marblehead	(biology)
Ally Mason of Findlay	(associate of arts, general concentration)
Kelsie Mayes of Galion	(occupational therapy assistant)
Alisha McCreary of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Vanessa McDowell of Maumee	(physical therapist assistant)
Jenifer McKee of Cygnet	(office administration)
Jennifer McLaughlin of Oregon	(medical office support)
Amy Niese of Ottawa	(criminal justice technology)
Marlissa Nordhaus of Perrysburg	(criminal justice technology)
Courtney Ohl of Tiffin	(culinary arts)
Brandy Ousley of Toledo	(business management)
Casandria Parker-Johnson of Toledo	(business management)
Ashley Partin of Curtice	(physical therapy assistant)
Thomas Pitzen of Toledo	(criminal justice technology)
Tammie Preston of Toledo	(criminal justice technology)
Nicole Pullom of Findlay	(social work)
Amber Reinbolt of Helena	(registered nursing)
Kathleen Shull of Bradner	(registered nursing)
Dustin Smith of Hamler	(social work)
Timothy Speegle of Toledo	(biology)
Rachel Stevenson of Toledo	(criminal justice technology)
Gregory Stilwell II of Sylvania	(criminal justice technology)
Amanda Sullivan of Toledo	(biotechnology)
Robin Taylor of Toledo	(communications studies)
Shelly Taylor of Toledo	(registered nursing)
Jacqueline Teal of Lyons	(radiography)
Michelle Tefft of Liberty Center	(computer programming)
Jennifer Urban of Perrysburg	(early childhood education)
Christine Vasquez of Toledo	(diagnostic medical sonography)
Jessica Verhoff of Walbridge	(business management)
Rose Vitullo of Pepper Pike	(registered nursing)
Kimberly Welch of Oak Harbor	(registered nursing)
Amy Wilson of Findlay	(accounting)

Faustwork Mask Theatre Continues Family Fun Sundays at Owens Community College, Jan. 17

Posted on January 11th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Fanciful handcrafted masks and physical comedy and theatre will collide at Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts as Faustwork Mask Theatre founder and artistic director Robert Faust brings to life a variety of characters by assuming the emotional state expressed in each mask’s face during a performance titled “The Mask Messenger” on Sunday, Jan. 17.

The performance, which will be held in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre at 3 p.m., is the second in the series of three Family Fun Sundays presented by Owens. The College is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to welcome the highly-accomplished Robert Faust and his amazing talents and fanciful handcrafted masks to the Center for Fine and Performing Arts stage,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Operations Manager for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “Community members of all ages will be entertained by Faustwork Mask Theatre’s unique ability to explore the artistic and cultural use of masks. ‘The Mask Messenger’ performance will include oversized masks, half masked characters that speak and exotic creatures in masks worn on top of the head, which are sure to baffle each attendee’s eye and tickle their funny bone.”

Since its founding by artistic director Robert Faust in 1983, Faustwork Mask Theatre has produced and created six shows that have delighted audiences worldwide at a variety of venues, including the Sydney Opera House in Australia, The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Additionally, Faustwork Mask Theatre’s first symphony show “Face the Music” was created in 2006 and performed to audiences nationwide.

Faust is known for personally designing and creating the masks used in Faustwork Mask Theatre’s various performances. Made from wood, leather, celastic, neoprene or bronze, Faust’s masks are primarily used on stage, but can occasionally be seen in art galleries and have been commissioned by such professional organizations as the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, among many others.

Faustwork Mask Theatre’s “The Mask Messenger” performance features an array of masks and explores its relationships to human psychology, business, fashion, art, dance and theatre. An engaging mix of monologues, physical comedy and theatre collide as Faust brings to life a variety of characters by assuming the emotional state expressed in each mask’s face. During the performance, certain characters will speak dialogue while wearing Commedia Dell’Arte style half-masks in addition to full masks.

Tickets for the Faustwork Mask Theatre performance are $15 and all seats are general admission. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. ARTS (2787).

Owens Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery Welcomes ‘Traveling Notations’ Art Exhibit, Jan. 11 – Feb. 13

Posted on January 6th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Photographically-based art ranging from digital photography to sculptural processes will make an appearance at Owens Community College as internationally recognized artist Debra Davis brings the human condition, with all its varied implications to life through computer manipulation, to the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery in an exhibit titled “Traveling Notations”, Jan. 11 – Feb. 13. The Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is located in Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

In addition to the exhibit, Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts will serve as host to a lecture by guest artist Debra Davis on Friday, Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre Room 111. A free exhibit reception will immediately follow the lecture in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery.

“Owens Community College is honored to welcome Debra Davis and her profound photographically-based art to the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Part-Time Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “Debra Davis’ artwork stands as a visual metaphor for the human journey. She selects various materials to combine with her artistic expressions. Whether it be wood, pebbles, bread, stone, wax or vinyl letters, each of these materials add to her comments on the human condition and the effects of time on life and our interpretation of experiences. Attendees will be amazed by the masterful works, which speak to the photography’s ability to capture fleeting moments and preserve them in another form for the future.”

Davis’ artistic expressions are recognized internationally for capturing the human journey with all its bumps that are caused by uncontrollable events in society. She incorporates digital photography, video, video stills, drawing, creative writing and sculptural processes throughout her artwork, interweaving the “found” with the “created”. A Pace Eminent Scholar Award winner, her most recent work has been based on sensory input, climatic shifts and evidentiary verification, coupled with the human dichotomies of life such as weight/lightness, presence/absence and freedom/constraint.

Her photographically-based art has been exhibited both nationally and internationally. Davis has also received various awards throughout her career highlighted by two International Faculty Development Awards to Prague, Czech Republic from USAC and the University of Toledo.

Davis currently serves as the Chair for the Department of Art and a Professor of Art in New Media at the University of Toledo, where she has taught both digital and traditional photographic processes to include Time-Based Digital Media, Photographic Alternatives and Digital Media courses.

She holds master’s degrees in photography and instructional technology – media production from the University of Colorado and Northern Illinois University, respectively. Additionally, Davis earned a bachelor’s degree in art studio from Northern Illinois University.

Owens Community College Opens New $2.6 Million Renovated Founders Hall for Spring Semester, Jan. 7

Posted on January 6th, 2010

Owens’ newly renovated $2.6 million Founders Hall building features the latest in educational resources for current and future students.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will usher in 2010 by unveiling a newly renovated $2.6 million Founders Hall building featuring the latest in educational resources as the academic institution begins its Spring Semester on Thursday, Jan. 7.

In addition to providing educational opportunities to thousands of students, Founders Hall (formerly known as the Penta Career Center Administration Building) will serve as the new home to the College’s Departments of English, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Communications, Humanities and Languages, as well as the Dean for the School of Arts and Sciences.

“Owens Community College is pleased to open the doors to a newly refurbished Founders Hall and share its enriched learning opportunities and innovative educational resources with our students and the surrounding communities,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Interim Provost of Owens Community College. “Founders Hall is a welcome addition to the campus community and continues our College’s longstanding commitment to meeting the needs of the Northwest Ohio region through academic excellence.”

The College’s newly renovated 29,045 square-foot Founders Hall building is situated at the south end of the Toledo-area Campus, which formerly served as home to the Penta Career Center. Owens’ signature red and black logo as well as an expansive red wall with an array of inspirational words in black, white and gray lettering welcomes individuals upon entering the educational center. Among the words highlighted on the elongated exterior and interior red wall include Success, Learning, Leadership, Collaboration, Opportunity, Excellence, Innovation and Service.

Located at the center of Founders Hall, the commons area will represent the heart of student activity in the educational building highlighted by an open-air atrium where students will have the opportunity to relax, study or access the Internet between classes. Once through one of the two main entrances, individuals will also notice an expansive glass skylight atop the atrium ceiling, which allows for a noticeable amount of sunlight into the educational building.

Founders Hall features eight instructional classrooms, two instructional computer classrooms and one open computer laboratory all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to provide expanded educational choices and options that meet the current and future needs of students.

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

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

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

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

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

In addition to the recently completed Founders Hall renovation project, the College is currently in the midst of refurbishing Heritage Hall at the former Penta Career Center as part of Owens’ ongoing campus expansion initiative. Once completed in the summer of 2010, the first phase of Heritage Hall will serve as the new home for the School of Business and Information Systems and the School of Nursing.

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

Owens to Host Community Grand Opening Celebration at New Arrowhead Park Learning Center, Jan. 11

Posted on January 5th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to get a firsthand look at Owens Community College’s new Arrowhead Park Learning Center as the academic institution officially opens the doors to the new educational complex during a Grand Opening Celebration on Monday, Jan. 11.

The Grand Opening Celebration will occur from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. at the new Arrowhead Park Learning Center, which is located at 1724 Indian Wood Circle in Maumee. Individuals will have the opportunity to tour the newly renovated facility, as well as learn about Owens’ many educational opportunities at the Arrowhead Park Learning Center. Owens staff will also be on hand to assist with advising and class registration for the upcoming Spring Semester during the Grand Opening Celebration.

In addition to the Grand Opening Celebration, Owens representatives will join community leaders and public officials in a formal ribbon cutting ceremony from 8-9 a.m. at the new Arrowhead Park Learning Center.

The new Arrowhead Park location will provide an array academic course options for students with aspirations of pursuing their associate’s degree or certificate from Owens. Academic courses available to students during the upcoming Spring Semester include accounting, astronomy, business, climate and weather, economics, English, government, health science, humanities, information systems, leadership, marketing and sales, mathematics, office administration, psychology, sociology, Spanish and speech. A majority of the courses begin Jan. 21.

Additionally, the Arrowhead Park Learning Center serves as the new home to the College’s Workforce and Community Services.

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

Posted on January 4th, 2010

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

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

“Owens Community College is very excited about this new partnership with Heidelberg University,” said Tamara Williams, Owens Associate Vice Provost. “The Dual Admission Program provides an opportunity for those Owens students interested in pursuing their bachelor’s degree to begin that educational journey while enrolled at both academic institutions.”

Williams added, “Heidelberg University is a vibrant learning community that is dedicated to intellectual, personal and professional development and Owens Community College is proud to align our educational philosophies for the betterment of providing greater access to enhanced learning opportunities for our students.”

“Heidelberg University is also very excited about having Owens Community College as a Dual Admission and Enrollment partner,” said Susan Stine, Associate Director of Admission at Heidelberg University. “We look forward to working with Owens students to help them progress toward completing a bachelor’s degree in the most efficient and cost effective manner possible.”

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

In addition, the dual admission option provides Owens students with access to academic advising at Heidelberg. Individuals will also be issued a Heidelberg student ID, which will provide access to an array of Heidelberg services to include library privileges as well as campus events and activities to broaden their academic experience. Additionally, upon transferring to Heidelberg, Owens students within the Dual Admission Program are eligible for a $2,000 Partnership Grant and may also qualify for a $4,000 Transfer Academic Award or a $6,000 Phi Theta Kappa Merit Scholarship. These grants and scholarships are available for full-time enrollment on the Tiffin campus.

Students enrolled in Heidelberg classes as part of the Dual Admission Program will pay Owens’ tuition costs. Dual Admission Program classes will occur at Heidelberg University in Tiffin and the academic institution’s Arrowhead Park campus in Maumee.

The new Dual Admission Program partnership builds upon a longstanding articulation agreement between the respective institutions which enables Owens students to seamlessly transfer to Heidelberg and pursue their bachelor’s degree, with junior standing, after completing their associate’s degree.

For more information about the new Dual Admission Program, call (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777, or (419) 448-2330 or 1-800-HEIDELBERG.

Heidelberg, founded in 1850, offers 36 courses of study in 19 major fields of concentration, awarding the bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, bachelor of music, master’s degrees in education, counseling, business administration and music. For more information visit the website at www.heidlberg.edu.

Owens Community College Welcomes Soul Street Dance Company, Jan. 8

Posted on December 23rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to enjoy an evening high energy movement and music that is part entertainment and art as Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts welcomes the Soul Street Dance Company to the Northwest Ohio region on Friday, Jan. 8.

Soul Street Dance Company’s Soul Sessions Dance Concert will begin at 8 p.m. in the Mainstage Theatre. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to welcome one of the country’s leading dance touring groups to Northwest Ohio,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Operations Manager for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “Soul Street Dance Company is known for captivating audiences with their unique style of dance, which features an array of gravity defying moves. Attendees will be on the edge of their seats in amazement of the group’s skills.”

Founded in 1996, Soul Street Dance Company is comprised of five professional performers who have mastered the art of dance ranging from Brazil’s capoeira to New York City’s break dance. Musical selections accompanying each Soul Session Dance Concert include Michael Jackson, James Brown, Leonard Bernstein, Nat “King” Cole and Earth, Wind & Fire to name a few.

Based in Houston, the group features a variety of dance styles and selections, including a mix of hip-hop, classical and new dance styles with urban-fashioned costumes and comic delivery. Soul Street Dance Company has entertained audiences worldwide and has made appearances at such prestigious venues as the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City and The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., among many other locations.

Tickets for Soul Street Dance Company’s Soul Sessions Dance Concert are $20 for floor level seating and $16 for raised level seating for the general public. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. ARTS (2787).

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Announce Presidential Search Committee Representatives

Posted on December 22nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Seventeen individuals representing both the campus community and the surrounding communities have been chosen to serve on the Presidential Search Ad Hoc Committee and assist in the selection of the new Owens Community College President. The new Presidential Search Committee will be appointed to their leadership positions on Wednesday, Jan. 6.

The Board of Trustees recently announced that a national search for the new President of Owens Community College is underway and will continue in 2010. The national search is being conducted to succeed Dr. Christa Adams, who has announced she will retire Jan. 1, after having served as President of Owens Community College since July 2001. The presidential search process is being led by Owens Board of Trustees Chair John C. Moore, who is serving as Chair of the Presidential Search Committee.

Individuals already appointed by Board of Trustees Chair Moore to the committee are Board of Trustees Vice Chair Diana H. Talmage and Board of Trustees Immediate Past Chair Dr. Ronald A. McMaster. Presidential Search Committee members will also include Jim Geers, retired Vice President of Global Human Resources for Cooper Tire and Rubber Company and a member of the Owens Foundation Board of Directors; David Seeger, President and CEO of Great Lakes Credit Union Inc. and President of the Alumni Association; Barbara Brotzki, Owens student and Student Government Treasurer; Elisa Huss-Hage, Professor of Teacher Education and Human Services; Dr. Marian J. Moore, Instructor of Social and Behavioral Sciences; Janet Pinkelman, Associate Professor of Nursing; Eric Duling, Professor of Design Technologies; Wayne Seely, Associate Professor of Law Enforcement; Cleveland Henderson Jr., Adjunct Faculty member of First Year Experience in Center for Teaching and Learning; Tom Perin, Director of Organizational Performance and Accountability; Marie Vasquez-Brooks, Chair of Allied Health; Willie Williams, Director of the Learning Center at The Source; Tara Pope, Security Officer; and Veronica Herrera, Secretary in the School of Business and Information Systems.

“The Board of Trustees is extremely pleased to announce the group of individuals who will play an integral role in selecting the next leader of Owens Community College,” said Board of Trustees Chair Moore. “We have assembled an outstanding team with varied backgrounds and experiences, from both the campus community and the surrounding communities, to provide their diverse views and perspectives to the presidential search process. The Board of Trustees looks forward to a highly competitive search process with the ultimate goal of having a new Owens President in place in 2010.”

The responsibilities of the Presidential Search Committee will include assisting with the process for finalizing the presidential profile specific to the position announcement and description, reviewing applications, selecting and interviewing semi-final candidates and then forwarding recommendations to the Board of Trustees.

Presidential Search Committee members will be appointed to their new positions on Wednesday, Jan. 6 as part of Presidential Search Open Forums facilitated by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Consultant Dr. Narcisa Polonio on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The Presidential Search Open Forums are designed to allow Owens employees and community members the opportunity to share their thoughts related to the challenges and opportunities Owens must address in the next five to 10 years, as well as the background and experience, educational qualifications, and professional and personal characteristics that the Board of Trustees should seek in the next President.

The first Presidential Search Open Forum will occur from 1-2 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 123-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens’ second Presidential Search Open Forum will take place from 3:15-4:15 p.m. in the Conference Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. The College’s Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the Findlay-area Campus is on Bright Road in Findlay.

The Board of Trustees has enlisted the services of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) to assist in conducting the presidential search. Founded in 1972, the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) is a nonprofit educational organization of Board of Trustees of community, technical and junior colleges. ACCT’s purpose is to strengthen the capacity of community, technical and junior colleges to realize their missions through effective Board of Trustee leadership, education and advocacy at local, state and national levels.

ACCT has a long and distinguished history of working with governing boards and providing executive search assistance to more than 300 community colleges. Based in Washington, D.C., ACCT is recognized nationally for its unique ability to provide comprehensive search assistance, recruitment on a diverse and quality pool of candidates, suggestions on process, and preparation of search materials and guidance to the Board of Trustees.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Baseball Hitting and Pitching School, Jan. 15-17

Posted on December 22nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area baseball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as men’s baseball hosts a three-day Express Baseball Hitting and Pitching School, Friday-Sunday, Jan. 15-17.

The baseball pitching school will take place from 6-8 p.m. on Friday (Jan. 15), while the hitting school will occur from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday (Jan. 16-17) in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include Owens Express Head Coach Bob Schultz and Assistant Coaches Tom DeMarco and Gabe Medina. Youth ages 8-18 will be divided by age groups and receive individual instruction on baseball skills, which will include an evaluation of each player’s hitting, pitching, throwing and defensive techniques. In addition, attendees will learn about custom exercises for baseball and gain tips on improving their hitting and pitching.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball, which was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge. Participants are encouraged to wear baseball pants or sweats, T-shirts and tennis shoes.

The camp fee for the three-day school is $85 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt. Owens’ camp fee is $35 per player for individuals interested in attending the pitching school only, while the camp fee for only the hitting school is $65 per player. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Name Dr. Larry G. McDougle Interim President

Posted on December 21st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Larry G. McDougle to serve as Interim President. Dr. McDougle will formally assume the new responsibilities Jan. 1. The Board of Trustees recently announced that a national search for the new President of Owens Community College is underway and will continue in 2010.

The national search is being conducted to succeed Dr. Christa Adams, who has announced she will retire Jan. 1, after having served as President of Owens Community College since July 2001. The presidential search process is being led by Owens Board of Trustees Chair John C. Moore, who is serving as Chair of the yet-to-be-named Presidential Search Ad Hoc Committee. Individuals already appointed by Board of Trustees Chair Moore to the committee are Board of Trustees Vice Chair Diana H. Talmage and Board of Trustees Immediate Past Chair Dr. Ronald A. McMaster.

“Dr. Larry McDougle is highly respected among higher education and community leaders within the Northwest Ohio region and beyond,” said John C. Moore, Board of Trustees Chair of Owens Community College. “He is the ideal person to lead Owens Community College and build on this academic institution’s mission and vision of providing a superior educational experience through excellence, innovation and collaboration.”

Board of Trustees Chair Moore added, “Dr. McDougle is also well aware that as with any academic institution there are challenges and the Board of Trustees is confident in his ability to work through those challenges and position and elevate Owens to the next level of academic excellence. The Board of Trustees is now focusing its full and undivided attention on conducting a national search to select the next leader of Owens Community College.”

“I am honored to accept this position as Interim President of Owens Community College and look forward to working with the faculty, staff and students as well as the community partners and helping our students reach their highest educational goals and career ambitions,” said Dr. Larry McDougle, Interim President of Owens Community College.

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

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

Dr. McDougle has received many honors to include an Honorary Doctor of Educational Leadership in 1998 and the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2009, both from the University of Findlay. In 1996, he received the Philip J. Rusche Distinguished Service Award from the University of Toledo College of Education and Allied Professions. Two years later, Dr. McDougle was awarded the John C. Hoyt Outstanding Employment and Training Leadership Award from the Toledo Area Private Industry Council.

In addition, he is the author of more than 60 articles, which have been published in a variety of professional journals, and has been invited to make presentations at more than 150 state, regional and national conferences.

Nationally, Dr. McDougle has held Board of Directors-level positions with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Membership Advisory Council of NFPA, the Midwest Society for Human Resources/Industrial Relations Chapter of the Midwest Business Administration Association and the Membership Committee of the American Technical Education Association (ATEA).

In Ohio, he served on the Ohio Board of Regents Advisory Committee on Service Achievement and has been a member of the Board of Trustees for Mercy College of Northwest Ohio, the Northwest Ohio Regional Economic Development (NORED), the Regional Growth Partnership (RGP) and the Henry County Business Advisory Council.

Dr. McDougle earned a doctorate in higher education from the University of Toledo. The Napoleon resident holds a master’s degree in physics from Kent State University and a bachelor’s degree in math-physics from the University of Findlay.

Owens Community College Closed During Holiday Season

Posted on December 21st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will be closed Thursday-Friday, Dec. 24 – Jan. 1, for the holiday season. Administrative offices will open again on Monday, Jan. 4.

Spring Semester classes begin on Thursday, Jan. 7.

Owens Community College Provost Paul Unger Announces Retirement Plans

Posted on December 16th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Executive Vice President/Provost Dr. Paul Unger has announced his retirement effective Jan. 1 at the conclusion of the current Fall Semester.

In addition to his duties as Executive Vice President/Provost, Dr. Unger has been serving as Acting President of the College since President Dr. Christa Adams announced her plans to retire earlier this month. The Board of Trustees is currently in the process of identifying an Interim President to serve until a permanent replacement can be found. At its December meeting, the Board of Trustees announced its plans to conduct a national search for a new President in 2010.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Chair John C. Moore reluctantly accepted Dr. Unger’s decision to retire. “We tried to persuade Dr. Unger to change his mind and remain as Executive Vice President/Provost but, unfortunately, his decision is firm. We are very grateful to him for his leadership over the years and especially during the past few months. Over and over, he has demonstrated his commitment to continuously improve the academic standards at Owens Community College and this academic institution is a better place today because of his dedication and leadership.”

Board of Trustees Chair Moore added, “We expect to announce an Interim President very soon and are confident that we will have someone in place for the upcoming Spring Semester. The Board of Trustees will then focus our full attention on conducting a national search for a new President.”

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure at Owens Community College over that last 18 years and am proud of all the accomplishments that I have been able to be a part of in serving our community,” said Dr. Paul Unger, Executive Vice President/Provost of Owens Community College. “I want to thank the Board of Trustees for their leadership and support of the College and I wish everyone at Owens all the best in the years to come.”

Dr. Unger joined the College as Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer in July 1992. He was named Executive Vice President/Provost in addition to continuing as Chief Academic Officer for Owens in May 2006. In his current position, Dr. Unger oversees the areas of Student Services, Academic Services and Workforce and Community Services. He has served as Provost for Owens since September 2002.

Since his arrival at Owens, Dr. Unger has been instrumental in supporting the infusion of state-of-the-art technology throughout the academic programs and the addition of the baccalaureate transfer curriculum in 1994 as the College was chartered from a Technical College to a State Community College. He also worked to secure the permanent Charter of the College as a State Community College and created the weekend college and distance learning offerings that currently enroll thousands of students, as well as provided leadership in the expansion of academic curriculum to meet the needs of the surrounding communities.

Other educational efforts spearheaded by Dr. Unger include the development of the Center for Emergency Preparedness and the College expanding its educational opportunities to Maumee’s Arrowhead Park for the upcoming spring term, as well as the acquiring of millions of dollars in both private and public grants for educational programs and resources. His leadership efforts also played a significant role in the College opening the Owens Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, which provides educational opportunities to area residents throughout the region.

Dr. Unger’s dedication to public service includes membership with the State of Ohio Chief Academic Officers of Two-Year Colleges, Northwest Ohio Tech Prep Consortium and National Council of Instructional Administrators. An advocate for higher education at the state level, Dr. Unger is also a member of many statewide committees with the Ohio Board of Regents.

Prior to coming to Owens, Dr. Unger served as the Dean of Business at Lima Technical College from 1986-92 and Policy Analyst for The National Center for Research in Vocational Education (NCRVE) at The Ohio State University from 1983-86.

Dr. Unger holds a doctorate degree in community college administration from The Ohio State University. After serving in the United States Marine Corps, he earned his master’s degree and bachelor’s degree in business from Central Michigan University and Wright State University, respectively. He resides in Sylvania.

In addition, Owens’ Vice Provost Dr. Renay Scott will be named to the position of Interim Provost effective Jan. 1. Dr. Scott, who has served as the College’s Vice Provost since September of this year, is responsible for assisting with all aspects related to the supervision and administrative leadership of the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Health Sciences and the Library on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Additionally, Dr. Scott administers the College’s program review and assessment system and oversees Owens’ faculty professional development plan, the Honors Program and service learning.

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Student Groups Donate Thousands of Books to Needy Literacy Programs, Dec. 16

Posted on December 15th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Environmental Club, Student Government and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society are reaching out to individuals throughout the world by giving new life to thousands of old books previously destined for dumpsters or destruction. The initiative, titled “Book Drives for Better Lives”, is part of an ongoing campus- and community-wide book collection program intended to help needy non-profit programs and organizations through literacy.

Since establishing the collection drive program in June 2006, the three student organizations have received over 40,000 in donated books from Owens employees and students, as well as the surrounding communities. Most recently, the three student groups have collected over 4,000 books, which will eventually end up in the hands of underprivileged individuals throughout the world.

Beginning at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 16, the three student organizations will pick up the various collection bins located around the Toledo-area Campus and prepare the donated books for shipment to Better World Books, which is a national organization dedicated to fighting global illiteracy through the dissemination books and funds to needy non-profit organizations. Literacy non-profit groups in which Better World Books, located in Mishawaka, Ind., serves include Books for Africa (Africa), the National Center for Family Literacy (United States), Room to Read (South Asia) and Worldfund (Latin America), among others.

To date, Better World Books has received more than 28 million book donations from over 1,800 colleges and universities participating in the worldwide program. The international organization has also assisted in raising more than $3.9 million for approximately 80 literacy and education non-profit groups.

Owens has set up a variety of collection points around the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Area residents can drop off their charitable book donations on the Toledo-area Campus at the Student Health and Activities Center, the Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building, the Fire Science and Law Enforcement Center, College Hall, the Audio/Visual Classroom Center, the Center for Fine and Performing Arts, the Center for Development and Training, and Health Technologies Hall. On the Findlay-area Campus, collection points are in the College’s Commons area.

The Owens Environmental Club is comprised of students who are dedicated to addressing a multitude of environmental issues on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The student organization has successfully implemented numerous recycling programs, while bringing more awareness to environmental concerns. Within the community, the Owens Environmental Club regularly helps in community clean-ups and preserve restorations, participates in charity events, and supports various environmental causes with a yearly Human-I-Tees fundraiser.

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

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

Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Deliver Toys to Area Hospital Children, Dec. 15

Posted on December 14th, 2009

FINDLAY, OH – The Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association is working to spread happiness and cheer throughout the surrounding communities by brightening the lives of children forced to spend the holiday season in local hospitals. Toys ranging from dolls to miniature trucks, collected within the last few weeks, will soon find their way to a smiling child’s arms as the Student Nursing Association presents the donated gifts to area hospitals on Tuesday, Dec. 15.

Beginning at 10 a.m., the Owens Student Nursing Association will wrap the various toys in an array of colorful paper in the Findlay-area Campus’ Nursing Lab. At 10:45 a.m., the members will divide up into groups and depart for six area hospitals to personally hand deliver the charitable gifts. Among the hospitals where Owens students will make visits are Blanchard Valley Regional Health Center at 11 a.m. (145 W. Wallace St.) in Findlay, Wood County Hospital at 11:30 a.m. (950 W. Wooster St.) in Bowling Green, Fostoria Community Hospital at 11:30 a.m. (501 Van Buren St.) in Fostoria, Lima Memorial Hospital at 11:45 p.m. (1001 Bellefontaine Ave.) in Lima, Fremont Memorial Hospital at 12:45 p.m. (715 S. Taft Ave.) in Fremont and Mercy Hospital of Tiffin at 12:15 p.m. (485 W. Market St.) in Tiffin. Over 290 toys were donated to area hospital children the last four years.

“The support from Owens employees and students as well as the community for the toy drive has been great and the Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association is extremely appreciative of the charitable efforts,” said Kimberly Ackley of Carey, Owens registered nursing student and President of the Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association. “Simple things such as a toy can make a world of difference for a child and even brighten their day as they face a difficult situation. The Student Nursing Association feels strongly about helping others and this project that allows us to give back to the community in a very meaningful way.”

The Owens Student Nursing Association has a rich and storied history, serving as one of the longest active student organizations at the College. In 2005, Owens expanded its student activities opportunities to include a new Findlay-area Campus chapter of the Student Nursing Association. The organization was created for Findlay-area Campus nursing and pre-nursing students with the overall mission of providing avenues for individuals to engage in community service activities, as well as to serve as a support network for nursing students. There are currently 10 nursing students participating in the Findlay-area Campus chapter.

Owens Community College Unveils Plans to New Educational Complex at Maumee’s Arrowhead Park

Posted on December 10th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is expanding access to higher education opportunities within Northwest Ohio by unveiling plans for a new educational complex at Arrowhead Park in Maumee. The new on-site educational service center in Maumee will provide convenient access to higher education for area residents, businesses and industries beginning January 2010.

The new location within Western Lucas County will provide an array academic course options for students with aspirations of pursuing their associate’s degree or certificate from Owens. Additionally, the educational center will serve as the new home for the College’s Workforce and Community Services division.

The renovated 24,665 square-foot site in Arrowhead Park will feature 12 classrooms, four computer laboratories, 19 offices, one reception area and one state tested nursing assistant laboratory, all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to provide expanded educational choices and options that meet the current and future needs of students and businesses throughout the region. Situated within close proximity to the Interstate-475 corridor, Owens’ new center will be located at 1724 Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

Each academic classroom will be equipped with multimedia capability, while the computer laboratories will feature the latest in computing resources for educational training instruction. The state tested nursing assistant laboratory will house state-of-the-art technology and academic resources that prepare students for careers as nurse assistants. Additionally, individuals will be able to use an array of software applications and programming languages within the laboratories as well as network and high-speed Internet access.

Designed by the firm The Collaborative Inc. in Toledo, the exterior of the building will feature a gray color over the existing single-story masonry structure as well as a signature Owens logo atop the complex’s main entrance. Program Solutions Group LLC in Perrysburg is serving as the project manager.

Owens’ Workforce and Community Services, which currently is located at 2249 Tracy Rd. in Northwood, is dedicated to providing customer-driven workforce development, job training and continuing education for business, industry and area residents throughout Northwest Ohio. Workforce and Community Services’ learning-centered approach focuses on developing and enhancing professional skills to meet the needs of the community, customizing academic curriculum in the areas of professional development, computer and software applications, health and fitness, artful living, personal development, real estate, children’s programming, and apprenticeship-related training and skilled trades.

Owens Recognizes Honors Program Students for Excellence During First-Ever Honors Medallion Ceremony, Dec. 11

Posted on December 10th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Four Owens Community College students pursuing academic studies at the highest level will be honored for their educational success and leadership as the Honors Program hosts its first-ever Honors Medallion Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 11.

The special ceremonies will culminate each student’s academic attainment with the bestowing of an Owens Honors Program medallion at 7 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The Honors Medallion Ceremony is open to the public.

Honors Program being recognized for the 2009 Fall Semester are Stacey Burris of Maumee (biology), Barbara Brotzki of Maumee (pre-business administration), Thomas Drealan of Toledo (pre-business administration) and Sara Grim of Whitehouse (registered nursing).

“Owens Community College is extremely proud to recognize these four individuals for their academic achievements,” said Kathleen Attwood, Owens Chair of Communications, Humanities and Languages and Honors Program Committee Co-Chair. “The Honors Program is designed to foster an educational environment in which students can excel to their fullest potential. Stacey, Barbara, Thomas and Sara are outstanding leaders who have challenged their intellectual growth at the highest level. I commend them on their accomplishment.”

The Honors Program at Owens was founded with the overall mission of providing a challenging educational opportunity, above and beyond the standard curriculum, for exceptional students who strive for academic excellence. One hundred seven students are members of the current Owens Honors Program on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

To be considered for admission into the selective program, a currently enrolled student must have a minimum 3.7 grade point average with 12 credits completed at Owens, among other requirements. A new student must have a high school 3.7 grade point average or equivalent and, in addition, meet additional criteria which includes a minimum ACT composite score of 27, SAT total verbal and math score of 1100 or Compass scores meeting or exceeding 94 on writing skills and 69 on college algebra. A full- or part-time student from any academic program who meets the admission criteria may participate.

Honors Program students must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours of honors courses, 12 of which are Honors Introduction to Critical Thinking, Honors Great Readings: Ancient World through the Middle Ages and Honors Principles of Ethics. Additionally, individuals participate in an Honors Capstone Seminar course in which they engage in directed research or service learning around essential questions or themes appropriate to their program of study as part of a capstone project. Students can also identify honors sections of existing courses, non-honors sections of existing courses in which the person proposes to perform honors-level work and honors independent study courses.

Upon program completion, each student receives Honors Program designation on their degree and transcript and is bestowed an Honors medallion to recognize their academic excellence. In addition, Owens Honors Program graduates are able to continue their educational pursuits at Bowling Green State University or the University of Toledo as the academic institutions have in place seamless transfer agreements between the respective Honors Programs.

The first Owens student to graduate from the Honors Program was LaDonna Knabbs of Toledo (sociology) in May 2009.

Owens Community College President Christa Adams Announces Retirement Plans

Posted on December 9th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Dr. Christa Adams, the fourth President in the storied history of Owens Community College, has announced her retirement effective Jan. 1 at the conclusion of the current Fall Semester.

With the support of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Adams announced her intentions in an e-mail letter to all Owens employees, and the Board of Trustees accepted her retirement plans at their December meeting. Dr. Adams said in her e-mail that Owens’ faculty, staff and students have made her Owens years the capstone of her career, and she hopes her next professional adventure will contain even a fraction of the rewards she has experienced at Owens.

“Dr. Christa Adams has touched the lives of thousands of students with her leadership and visionary approach to higher education,” said John C. Moore, Board of Trustees Chair of Owens Community College. “I have known Dr. Adams since 2001, when Owens Community College conducted a national search to choose the right candidate to lead our growing College into the 21st Century. She has opened the doors of learning to thousands and has ensured that we are providing the highest quality education to our students. Her leadership has made a difference in many lives and we are grateful to her for all she has done.”

An avid supporter of community colleges and the community college mission, Dr. Adams is dedicated to creating educational opportunities for students of all ages, from all walks of life. She began her presidency at Owens Community College on July 26, 2001.

Since that time, she has worked tirelessly to reach out and engage faculty and staff, as well as community and education partners, for the common purpose of educating students and strengthening the surrounding Northwest Ohio region. Under Dr. Adams’ leadership, enrollment has increased from 17,000 students in 2001 to more than 23,000 during the current 2009 fall term; academic programs both in the classroom and online have expanded in a wide range of high demand fields to meet business and industry needs; a shared leadership model has been established among the campus community; and the Owens Foundation was incorporated and the College’s Alumni Association was advanced.

Additionally, the College has acquired millions of dollars in public and private grants to enhance educational opportunities for students and Dr. Adams’ advocacy at the state and federal levels has helped to ensure ongoing funding support for the academic institution. Two years ago, Owens marked a monumental point in the College’s history as an Owens Learning Center opened at The Source in downtown Toledo. The overall mission and goal of the new Owens Learning Center is to provide Lucas County residents with access to higher education and career training.

Capital improvements projects during Dr. Adams’ tenure have included a new Center for Fine and Performing Arts, a relocated Findlay-area Campus and a new Center for Emergency Preparedness, which is the only state-of-the-art complex of its kind in the Midwest. In addition, the former Penta Career Center is currently under renovation and the College is expanding its educational opportunities to Arrowhead Park in Maumee for the upcoming spring term.

Also under Dr. Adams’ leadership, a new Success Scholarship Program initiative was unveiled with the help and support of the Owens Foundation. Founded in 2008, the program is designed to assists students in financial need, who receive only partial state and federal aid, attend college and bridges the gap between the grant aid a student receives and the cost of an Owens education. This year, 247 graduates in financial need from Whitmer High School, Findlay High School and other high schools within the Toledo Public Schools district are receiving a free college education on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, thanks to the Owens Foundation’s Success Program.

Dr. Adams’ board-level membership includes the Greater Toledo Urban League, the United Way of Greater Toledo, the Toledo Chamber of Commerce, the Findlay Chamber of Commerce, Toledo Symphony Orchestra and the Toledo Cultural Arts Center. Dedicated to providing quality education to all students, Dr. Adams is a board member of Think College Now, a Northwest Ohio college access program, and she served on the School Reform Committee of the Toledo Public Schools. Her interest in technology and economic development led her to serve as a partner of the University of Toledo Science and Research Technology Corridor. Dr. Adams is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Regional Growth Partnership and the Wood County Economic Development Commission.

At the state level, Dr. Adams has served on the Ohio Board of Regents’ Higher Education Funding Commission. She previously served as deputy to Governor Bob Taft’s Technology Action Board and as an Ohio team member of the National Governor’s Association Pathways to Advancement Policy Academy. Dr. Adams is a Consultant/Evaluator for North Central Accreditation’s Higher Learning Commission, and presently serves on its Accreditation Review Council.

In addition, Dr. Adams is a member of the American Association of Women in Community Colleges and a supporter of the National Institute for Leadership Development, which trains and mentors community college women leaders. She is a recipient of the Girl Scouts’ Woman of Distinction Award, the ATHENA Award, the YWCA Milestones for Women in Service Award for education, the Ann Aldrich Women’s History Month Award and the Spirit of Wood County Award. As a member of the NAACP, Dr. Adams developed Port Huron’s Minority Affairs Advisory Council and received the minority community’s Gold Star Award for service to minorities.

Prior to assuming the Presidency at Owens Community College, Dr. Adams served a five-year term as President of St. Clair County Community College in Port Huron, Mich.

Dr. Adams earned her doctorate in community college administration/ vocational education from Colorado State University. A resident of Perrysburg, she holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in English from the University of Northern Colorado.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Announce National Search for New President

Posted on December 9th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Board of Trustees announced at its regular meeting that a national search for the new President of Owens Community College will occur in 2010. In conjunction with the announcement, the Board of Trustees has enlisted the services of the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) to assist in conducting the presidential search.

A national search is being conducted to replace Dr. Christa Adams, who has announced she will retire Jan. 1, after having served as President of Owens Community College since July 2001. The presidential search process is being led by Owens Board of Trustees Chair John C. Moore, who will serve as Chair of the yet-to-be-named Presidential Search Ad Hoc Committee. Individuals already appointed by Board of Trustees Chair Moore to the committee are Board of Trustees Vice Chair Diana H. Talmage and Board of Trustees Immediate Past Chair Dr. Ronald A. McMaster.

“The selection of a President is one of the most important roles of a Board of Trustees and I look forward to beginning the process of assembling a team of individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences from both the campus community and the surrounding communities to provide their diverse views and perspectives in selecting the next leader of Owens Community College,” said Board of Trustees Chair Moore.

Founded in 1972, the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) is a nonprofit educational organization of Board of Trustees of community, technical and junior colleges. ACCT’s purpose is to strengthen the capacity of community, technical and junior colleges to realize their missions through effective Board of Trustee leadership, education and advocacy at local, state and national levels.

Owens Express Volleyball Pink-Themed ‘Volley for the Cure’ Event Raises $1,900 for Breast Cancer Awareness and Research

Posted on December 4th, 2009

Owens’ volleyball team poses for a group photo at the conclusion of the their “Volley for the Cure” event.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Pink volleyballs, pink T-shirts, pink cookies, pink cupcakes, pink bracelets and pink necklaces were appropriately abundant on a recent evening at Owens Community College’s Student Health and Activities Center as the Express women’s volleyball team and Student Activities raised funds to help support the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the American Cancer Society and the two organization’s efforts in the fight against breast cancer. Both fans and student-athletes alike wore pink and purchased pink food and clothing items in honor of breast cancer awareness during the Express’ home match against Lorain County Community College.

In a little over two hours, the Owens volleyball team and Student Activities collected over $1,900 through various “pink-themed” activities, which included a bake sale, game ball raffle, T-shirt sale and a pink game worn Express volleyball jersey silent auction.

“Breast cancer can occur at any time in a woman’s life,” said sophomore outside hitter Brooke Thomas of Findlay (Findlay H.S.). “Nearly everyone either personally or through a loved one or friend has been affected by cancer in some one way. Owens’ ‘Volley for the Cure’ provides an opportunity to raise public awareness and funds for this terrible disease.”

Express sophomore defensive specialist Amanda Drew of Maumee (Springfield H.S.) added, “It is our responsibility as women to help in educating other women about breast cancer. Everyone’s efforts are needed to support the breast cancer awareness and research cause and hopefully one day a cure can be found.”

In addition to contributions raised, the Express volleyball team won the match against Lorain County Community College in three consecutive games 25-10, 25-10 and 25-20.

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure was established in 1982 by Nancy Brinker to honor the memory of her sister, Susan G. Komen, who died from breast cancer at the age of 36. Today, Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. More than $1 billion has been raised to aid the fight against breast cancer in the world. The American Cancer Society is a nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service.

The Express women’s volleyball program recently ended their 2009 season with a 32-20 overall record and tied for second place (9-3) in the OCCAC. Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, the team’s season concluded with a loss to St. Clair County Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Express volleyball team members include Ja’Lisa Graham of Mansfield (Mansfield Senior H.S.), Amanda Drew of Maumee (Springfield H.S.), Brooke Hearn of Luna Pier, Mich. (Mason H.S.), Brooke Thomas of Findlay (Findlay H.S.), Alyssa Wielfaert of Toledo (Start H.S.), Danielle Bateson of Fostoria (Fostoria H.S.), Amanda Schuster of Sylvania (Sylvania Southview H.S.), Lauren Lind of Millbury (Lake H.S.), Jessica Knueve of Kalida (Kalida H.S.), Alyssa LaVoy of Pemberville (Eastwood H.S.), Kara Seals of Temperance, Mich. (Bedford H.S.), Maureen Kurtz of Tiffin (Mohawk H.S.), Shelby Schuster of Sylvania (Sylvania Southview H.S.) and Leigha Poulson of Shreve (Triway H.S.).

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Owens Black Student Union ‘Red Carpet Fashion Show’ Raises Over $750 in Support of Diabetes Awareness

Posted on December 2nd, 2009

“Red Carpet Fashion Show” models (L to R) Bridget Hanson, Charvette Benefield and Keyaira Smith pose for a photo prior to the start of the evening’s festivities.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Hundreds of area residents recently experienced the latest in glamour, fashion, dance and music as Owens Community College’s Black Student Union presented its second annual “Red Carpet Fashion Show”. The evening festivities resulted in the student group raising over $750 in support of diabetes awareness and research for the American Diabetes Association.

“Owens Community College’s Black Student Union is proud to work with the American Diabetes Association and help raise money for diabetes awareness and research,” said Shawanda Johnson, Owens Black Student Union Advisor.

Johnson added, “Our goal for the annual event is to help in the fight against this terrible disease. I want to thank all those individuals who made this year’s ‘Red Carpet Fashion Show’ a huge success, and I encourage people to continue to promote and support diabetes awareness.”

Attendees had the opportunity to view an array of clothing during the “Red Carpet Fashion Show” to several themed fashion scenes such as winter/fall, children, hip hop, swim wear and red alert in recognition of diabetes awareness. Featured “Red Carpet Fashion Show” models included students attending Owens, Toledo Public Schools and Winterfield Venture Charter Academy as well as community members.

Entertainment was provided by the Owens Dance Express Team and the nationally-recognized performance groups House of Adonis of Toledo and All-Stars of Boston, among many others. Nationally-known comedian Darrell Banks served as the event host.

L.B. Davis models red alert fashion in recognition of diabetes awareness during the fashion show at Owens.

Additionally, Toledo’s Glass City Church of Christ Rev. Robert G. Birt Jr. shared insight into his own personal accounts with diabetes.

Owens Fine and Performing Arts Presents Student Choir Holiday Concert, Dec. 6

Posted on December 1st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Center for Fine and Performing Arts will welcome the holiday season with an array of traditional and international carols and Mozart’s “Missa Brevis” as the Student Choir presents its annual holiday concert on Sunday, Dec. 6.

The holiday concert will begin 2 p.m. in the Mainstage Theatre. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The performance is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Musical selections presented by the four-part chorus group will include “Balulalow”, “Inno per Natale”, “A La Nanita Nana”, “Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow”, “Silent Night”, “Winter Wonderland” and “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”, among others. Additionally, “Missa Brevis” No. 9 in B flat major by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart will be featured as part of the performance. Owens’ chorus will present five of the six movements to the selection, which is a musical setting to the traditional Catholic mass.

Owens Adjunct Faculty members in Fine and Performing Arts Eric Graber and Heidi Clausius will serve as the choir concert’s director and accompanist, respectively. Students involved in the College’s chorus include Elizabeth Brandeberry of Fostoria, Rebecca Fallon of Northwood, Melissa Herman of Toledo, Elizabeth Keith of Sylvania, Melissa McNutt of Toledo, Jailyn Surprise of Toledo, Elizabeth Williamson of Perrysburg, Tina Brandeberry of Fostoria, Julianne Hansen of Northwood, Ora Ragland of Toledo, Tiffany Wilson of Maumee, Paige Anteau of Toledo, Paralea Dewyer of Bowling Green, Sarah Stretchbery of Bowling Green, Marcianna Cervantes of Millbury, Sarah Mattin of Delta, Emily Wyse of Wauseon, Andrew Alfred of Toledo, Brandon Burns of Toledo, Michelle Close of Toledo, Calvin Green of Toledo, Anthony Hunter of Toledo, Michael Farnham of Toledo, Steven Hughes of Toledo, Brandon Lacourse of Whitehouse, Ronnie Spann Jr. of Toledo and Christian Taylor of Galloway.

For more information about the Owens Choir Holiday Concert, contact the College’s Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Student Government Lends Helping Hand to Needy Individuals With Food Drive, Dec. 10

Posted on November 30th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Student Government is reaching out to needy individuals and families in the Northwest Ohio region by partnering with Perrysburg Christians United and hosting a food drive to benefit the organization’s Food Pantry initiative on Thursday, Dec. 10.

The donation drive will take place from 10 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. (Dec. 10) in the College Hall Atrium on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Non-perishable items being accepted for the food drive include peanut butter, canned goods (meats, stews, tuna fish, pork and beans, navy beans and soup), apple sauce, peaches, pears, fruit cocktail, green beans, corn, peas, dry pasta, dried beans, powered milk, spaghetti sauce, macaroni and cheese, cereal and saltine crackers, as well as toilet paper, soap, shampoo and deodorant. All collected donations will then be delivered to Perrysburg Christians United’s Food Pantry, which is located at 601 E. Boundary St. in Perrysburg, and given to individuals in need as part of their outreach efforts.

“There many people throughout the surrounding region who are without food on a regular basis,” said Lorraine Makay, Owens Student Government Secretary and Food Drive Coordinator. “The Owens Student Government is proud to help Perrysburg Christians United in their efforts to fight hunger and make a difference in the lives of those in need.”

Established in March 1973, Perrysburg Christians United is comprised of 12 participating churches that are dedicated to assisting the needy with food and other basic necessities and services to include crisis assistance. The organization is staffed by community volunteers and provides services to over 340 households annually.

For more information about the food drive, contact the Office of Student Activities at (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Art Exhibition Highlights Student Work at Owens’ Findlay-area Campus, Dec. 1-11

Posted on November 30th, 2009

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College students will have the opportunity to showcase their many artistic talents as the Findlay-area Campus hosts its annual Fall Student Art Exhibition in the Library Gallery, Dec. 1-11.

Additionally, the College will host a reception for the artists on Tuesday, Dec. 1. The reception will occur from 5-7 p.m. in the Findlay-area Campus Library. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is delighted to feature the finest works of art produced by our students during the Fall Semester,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “The Library Gallery is a great venue for Owens students to display their own works and highlight the knowledge and growth they have acquired in the classroom.”

McCain added, “These artistic expressions are extremely individualized and reflect the unique creative abilities and inspirations of each student artist.”

The Fall Student Art Exhibition features numerous pieces of artwork from paintings to drawings created by student artists enrolled in the College’s “Fundamentals of Drawing” course, which is instructed by Erika Clark, Owens Adjunct Faculty member for Fine and Performing Arts. In this course, students obtain experiential learning within various areas, including the study of object drawing, form organization, value, perspective, proportion and texture.

In addition, student artists enrolled in the College’s “Foundations in 2D Design” course, also instructed by Clark, will present their artistic expressions within the Library Gallery. In this course, students develop an understanding of basic studio art principles, critical skills and media manipulation, covering the topics of color theory and the use of two-dimensional space.

Students from the College’s “Black and White Photography I” course instructed by Melissa Harding, Owens Adjunct Faculty member for Fine and Performing Arts, will also showcase their artistic work as part of the exhibit. The class focuses on photography both as a fine art and for commercial means. Students learn about the development of skills related to visual literacy, film exposure, making prints and preparing prints for exhibition, among many other areas.

Students whose work will be displayed are Amanda Arend of Findlay (pre-nursing), Brittany Waldman of Findlay (photography), Lisa Frey of Findlay (psychology), Katie Bernot of Findlay (photography), Chandra Burkett of Tiffin (pre-licensed practical nursing), Sabrina Boykin of McComb (photography), Brittany Trevino of North Baltimore (photography), Kyle Smith of Findlay (photography), Danail Gantschev of Findlay (photography), Martin Gonzalez of Findlay (photography), Andrew Meyers of Tiffin (photography), Ruth Rinker of Van Buren (photography), Nicole Adams of Findlay (pre-radiography), Steven Alesch of Bloomdale (associate of science, general concentration), Jared Alford of Findlay (commercial art technology), Jerrika Born of Upper Sandusky (undecided), Warren Garnes of Findlay (commercial art), Dawn Harmon of North Baltimore (psychology), Selena Ho of Findlay (commercial art technology), Jacylyn Mathis of Findlay (associate of arts, general concentration), Jennie McCoy of Findlay (pre-physical therapist assistant), Tammie Richards of Oregon (commercial art technology), Kayla Rosencrans of Findlay (fine art), Kelley Seamon of Findlay (fine art), Crystal Soto of Carey (associate of science, general concentration), Belinda Spitler of Findlay (photography), Brittany Trevino of North Baltimore (photography), Sarah White of Findlay (commercial art technology), Garrett Daughtery of Findlay (commercial art technology), Magen Hughes of Findlay (commercial art technology), Leslie Mellott of Arcadia (fine art), Mackensey Phillips of Findlay (photography), Joseph Ritter of Findlay (commercial art technology), Jamie Vogts of Jenera (commercial art technology) and Benji Wilhelm of Findlay (commercial art technology).

Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Reach Out to Area Hospital Children With Toy Drive, Nov. 30 – Dec. 14

Posted on November 24th, 2009

FINDLAY, OH – The Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association is once again working to spread holiday cheer throughout the surrounding communities by hosting its fifth annual Toy Drive benefiting children staying in local hospitals. The organization is currently accepting donations of toys, Nov. 30 – Dec. 14.

“The Owens Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association is encouraging to area residents to help in bringing smiles to those children who must spend their holiday in the hospital by donating a toy to the organization’s annual toy drive program,” said Kimberly Ackley of Carey, Owens registered nursing student and President of the Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association. “Simple things such as a toy can make a world of difference for a child and even brighten their day as they face a difficult situation. The Student Nursing Association feels strongly about helping others and this project that allows us to give back to the community in a very meaningful way.”

Donations can be dropped off on the College’s Findlay-area Campus, which is located on Bright Road in Findlay, at collection points in the Nursing Lab or the Commons area. On Dec. 15, the Student Nursing Association will wrap the donated toys and distribute them as gifts to children in the Blanchard Valley Regional Health Center, Wood County Hospital, Mercy Hospital of Tiffin, Lima Memorial Hospital, Fremont Memorial Hospital and Fostoria Community Hospital. Over 290 toys were donated to area hospital children the last four years.

For more information on the Owens Student Nursing Association Toy Drive, call (567) 429-3518 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3518.

Owens’ Community Terrace View CafÈ Announces Garde Manger Grazing Stations Buffet, Nov. 30

Posted on November 24th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to experience an array of amazing foods in the form of garnishes, hors d’oeuvres and appetizers at the Owens Community College Terrace View CafÈ as students within the culinary arts program’s Garde Manger classes present the art and craft of the cold kitchen during a grazing station feature buffet on Monday, Nov. 30.

This marks the first time that the Garde Manger classes will open the College’s student-run Terrace View CafÈ to the public as attendees will have the opportunity to partake of sausages, smoked foods, cheeses, p‚tÈs, vegetable and fruit carvings, chutneys, crackers and canapÈs from an array of buffet themed platters as part of their dining experience, including a Fall Harvest, International Cuisine, Celtic Celebration, Road Trip Across America and a Cocktail Party.

The Garde Manger Grazing Stations Buffet will take place from 5-6 p.m. in the College’s Terrace View CafÈ, which is located in College Hall Room 148 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens’ restaurant is coordinated by the Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Department.

The Owens culinary arts program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the rapidly growing culinary arts industry. Both the associate’s degree and certificate prepares students for food preparation positions in restaurants, hotels, health care facilities, resorts and country clubs. The Garde Manger class is designed to provide students with experiential learning related to the art and craft of the cold kitchen. Classroom instruction includes the preparation of garnishes, hors d’oeuvres and appetizers, sausages and tureens, sauces and soups, and salads and sandwiches. Additionally, buffet presentation is highlighted as part of the academic curriculum.

The cost per dinner, which includes unlimited trips to the grazing stations, is only $7.50 and reservations are required. Reservations can be made by calling (567) 661-7359 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7359. Individuals can also make a reservation by accessing the College’s website at www.owens.edu/terrace.

Owens Toledo-area Campus Hosts Rapid Registration Week, Nov. 30 – Dec. 5

Posted on November 24th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents, businesses and students interested in taking college classes or starting a new career this spring are invited to attend Rapid Registration Week at Owens Community College, Nov. 30 – Dec. 5. Spring Semester classes begin on Jan. 7.

For added convenience, the College will be open extra hours for Rapid Registration Week from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday-Thursday, Nov. 30 – Dec. 3. Additionally, students may register from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4, and from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Additionally, the College will host Rapid Registration Week at the Learning Center at The Source, Nov. 30 – Dec. 4. Owens’ Learning Center is located on Monroe Street in downtown Toledo. The Learning Center will be open extra hours for Rapid Registration Week from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday, Nov. 30 – Dec. 3. Students may also register from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4.

Individuals attending Rapid Registration Week will have the opportunity to learn about Owens’ many academic program offerings, receive academic advising, complete electronic financial aid, learn about deferred payment plans, and select their classes in a convenient and timely manner from the College’s staff representatives.

Owens offers personal attention and small classes throughout the day, evening and weekends, and online. For more registration information or to obtain a schedule of courses for the spring term, contact Enrollment Services at (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777, or access the College’s website at www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Foundation Appoints Board of Directors to Leadership Positions

Posted on November 24th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Foundation Board of Directors has elected Arthur H. Smith of Maumee, retired Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary for Libbey Inc., to serve as the Chairman for the Owens Foundation for a second one-year term.

In addition, the Board of Directors re-elected Thomas Pounds of Toledo, President and Publisher for the “Toledo Free Press”, as Vice Chairman, and Diana H. (Dee) Talmage of Toledo, retired Educator, as Secretary, to leadership positions for one-year terms. Daniel Kimmet of Toledo, retired Chief Operating Officer for Dillin Corp., was re-elected to serve a third year as the Foundation’s Treasurer.

Four Directors were re-elected to their positions during the annual meeting and will serve three-year terms. Re-elected Directors include Charles Bills of Findlay, President/CEO of Ohio Logistics & Affiliates; James Carter of Grand Rapids, Wood County Commissioner; James Geers of Findlay, retired Vice President of Global Human Resources for Cooper Tire & Rubber Company; and Rasesh Shah of Holland, President, Rail Group, The Andersons Inc. Also elected for a three-year term was David Whikehart of Findlay, Director of Climate Change and Carbon Management for Marathon Petroleum Company.

In addition, during their Nov. 11, 2009 board meeting, the Board of Directors elected Jeannie Hylant of Toledo to a three-year term. Hylant is Executive Vice President of Hylant Group.

“The Owens Community College Foundation has assembled an outstanding group of leaders who value the importance of a quality college education and the many benefits of lifelong learning,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of Fund Development and Foundation President. “Each officer brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and dedication to their position and will play a significant role in the Foundation enhancing programs and services for current and future students.”

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $1.9 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 25 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Center for Emergency Preparedness Announces New Concealed Weapons Permit Training Program

Posted on November 23rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in becoming certified to carry a concealed handgun in the state of Ohio can now pursue such educational training pursuits at Owens Community College as the Center for Emergency Preparedness announces the creation of a new Concealed Weapons Permit Training Program.

The initial 12-hour course will occur Monday-Tuesday, Nov. 30 – Dec. 1 with firing range testing on Thursday, Dec. 3. Owens’ Concealed Weapons Permit Training Program classes will take place from 6-10 p.m. and is limited to the first 15 people to register. The College’s Center for Emergency Preparedness is located at 30150 Tracy Road in Walbridge, which at the intersection of Tracy and Walbridge Roads on the east side of the Owens Toledo-area Campus.

“Carrying a concealed handgun is a privilege in the state of Ohio and successfully passing this course allows citizens to carry a concealed handgun legally,” said Mike Cornell, Owens Director of the Center for Emergency Preparedness. “Safety is the first principal of the class. Anything less is unacceptable.”

Course content will focus on firearm safety, firearms law and safe gun handling, as well as provide instruction related to proper maintenance and storage practices for handguns and ammunition. Additional topics include the skills and attitude necessary to use a handgun and its appropriate use for self-defense. The course will culminate with hands-on training at the College’s firing range.

Owens’ new Concealed Weapons Permit Training Program will be taught by certified Ohio Police Academy firearms instructors. The course is expected to be repeated monthly at the Center for Emergency Preparedness.

The Center for Emergency Preparedness is the premier all-hazards national training facility located at Owens Community College. As the world continues to change so will the critical training demands for the men and women who place themselves in harm’s way. The Center for Emergency Preparedness is dedicated to securing the homeland and assuring the safety of our citizens by building a well-trained community of first responders, first receivers and allied professionals who are ready to safely respond to and mitigate the effects of an all-hazards event.

The cost of the course is $85. For more information or to register for the new Concealed Weapons Permit Training Program, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357. Individuals are encouraged to call for future class dates or go to the Center for Emergency Preparedness website at www.owens.edu/cep to view the training calendar.

Owens Community College and Rotary Club of Perrysburg Announce New Endowed Scholarship Program

Posted on November 23rd, 2009

Officials from Owens Community College and the Rotary Club of Perrysburg pose for a photo following the announcement of the new endowed scholarship program.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College and the Rotary Club of Perrysburg are entering into a new partnership that will afford Penta Career Center graduates the opportunity to pursue higher education aspirations as the two organizations announce the establishment of a new endowed scholarship program. The Rotary Club of Perrysburg and its Foundation recently presented the Owens Community College Foundation with a $20,000 donation to fund the endowment.

“Owens Community College is honored to partner with the Rotary Club of Perrysburg and extend this new scholarship opportunity to future Penta Career Center graduates,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of Fund Development and Foundation President. “This endowed scholarship program will open the door for many area residents to pursue their career aspirations at Owens for years to come. The Owens Community College Foundation appreciates the Rotary Club of Perrysburg’s commitment to furthering excellence in higher education.”

The new scholarship will be awarded to a Penta Career Center high school graduate who has completed at least a two-year program at the school. Selection criteria for the new scholarship program will also include that the recipient attend Perrysburg, Lake or Rossford high school and achieve a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average. Additionally, the recipient must be able to demonstrate significant participation in community service activities during high school and financial need. Recipients, who will be selected through a process of screenings and interviews, will be assigned a Rotary mentor and must remain in contact during the term of the scholarship.

Scholarships will not have a stated amount, but are intended to provide a fully paid college education through the attainment of an associate’s degree from Owens. The Rotary Club of Perrysburg’s overall goal is to grow the scholarship program into a $100,000 endowment.

The new endowed scholarship initiative is a continuation of a longstanding partnership among the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, Penta Career Center and Owens which was forged in 2001 with the establishment of the Students Taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education (STRIVE) Program. The overall mission of the STRIVE Program, which is a program of Rotary International and may be adopted by a local Rotary Club, is to provide educational assistance and encouragement to high school students with the goal of improving their grades, attitudes and attendance during their senior year.

Now in its ninth year of existence, the STRIVE partnership between the Rotary Club of Perrysburg and Penta Career Center has resulted in 172 students graduating from the program. Overall, the Rotary Club of Perrysburg has provided nearly $50,000 of funding for the local STRIVE initiative. Since 2003, the Owens Community College Foundation has provided matching scholarship funds in the amount of $2,500 per year for STRIVE students to attend Owens. The collaboration among the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, Penta Career Center and Owens has grown into the Perrysburg Rotary Service Foundation Scholarship Endowment Fund. STRIVE graduates from any Penta Career Center member school district are eligible for the Rotary Scholarship.

The Owens Community College Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $1.9 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 25 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

The Rotary Club of Perrysburg has more than 120 business, professional and community leaders, primarily from the Perrysburg area, as its membership. The current Club President is Ken Robinson and the Foundation Chair is John Welch. The Club was chartered in 1979. The Perrysburg Rotary Service Foundation was formed in 1985 and has funded over $600,000 for charitable projects in the Perrysburg community and internationally.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Hosts Rapid Registration Week, Nov. 30 – Dec. 5

Posted on November 23rd, 2009

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents, businesses and students interested in taking college classes or starting a new career this spring are invited to attend Rapid Registration Week at Owens Community College, Nov. 30 – Dec. 5. Spring Semester classes begin on Jan. 7.

For added convenience, the College will be open extra hours for Rapid Registration Week from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday-Thursday, Nov. 30 – Dec. 3. Additionally, students may register from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4, and from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5. The Owens Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

Owens offers personal attention and small classes throughout the day, evening and weekends, and online. For more registration information or to obtain a schedule of courses for spring term, contact Enrollment Services at (567) 429-3509 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3509, or access the College’s website at www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College to Host Ohio Grade Level Chess Championship, Nov. 21

Posted on November 19th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 350 youth in grades K-12 from around the state will converge in Perrysburg Township to test their mental capacity and intellectual skills as Owens Community College serves as host to the Ohio Grade Level Chess Championship on Saturday, Nov. 21.

Presented by the Great Lakes Chess Association, the Montessori Chess Boosters Club and the Owens Collegiate Chess Club, the competition will occur from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

All chess participants will have the opportunity to compete in the individual tournament for the right to be crowned Ohio Champion, while two or more players from the same school can enter the team portion of the chess tournament.

Ohio Grade Level Chess Championship attendees will compete in five separate rounds throughout the day to determine the top finishers. The Ohio Champion in both the individual and team events at the various grade levels will be crowned based on the total number victories accumulated during the competition. In addition, all participants will receive a medal in commemoration of annual Ohio Grade Level Chess Championship.

Individuals participating in the Ohio Grade Level Chess Championship are members of the United States Chess Federation. Established in 1939, the organization has grown to over 80,000 members and 2,000 affiliated chess clubs throughout the country.

The Great Lakes Chess Organization was founded with the overall mission of supporting the learning and development of chess skills through the creation and maintenance of scholastic chess programs and related activities. The regional group works with students from first grade through collegiate levels in Northwest Ohio to foster and promote growth in the scholastic chess clubs.

Check-in registration for participants will begin at 8 a.m. the day of the tournament. For more information about the Ohio Grade Level Chess Championship at Owens, call (419) 878-8766 or (419) 354-1562.

Owens Community College Closed Thanksgiving Weekend

Posted on November 19th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will be closed Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 25-29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. There will be no classes and the College will be closed.

Additionally, there will be no classes on Tuesday, Nov. 24. However, administrative offices will be open throughout the day.

Classes will resume and administrative offices will open again on Monday, Nov. 30.

Owens Community College Hosts Second Annual Express Girls High School Mega Scrimmage, Nov. 19

Posted on November 19th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Twenty high school varsity girls basketball teams will have the opportunity to compete against some of the best high schools from around the region as part of the second annual Express Girls High School Mega Scrimmage hosted by Owens Community College on Thursday, Nov. 19.

The basketball mega scrimmage will occur from 5-10 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Varsity girls basketball teams competing in the Express Girls High School Mega Scrimmage include Notre Dame Academy, Whitmer High School, Central Catholic High School, Libbey High School, Stryker High School, Lake High School, Delphos St. John High School, Toledo Christian School, Calvert High School, Ottawa Hills High School, Archbold High School, Fostoria St. Wendelin High School, Detroit CMA High School, Perrysburg High School, Bellevue High School, Clay High School, Delphos Jefferson High School, Northwood High School, Ida High School and Mason High School. Each high school varsity team will compete in several games throughout the scrimmage.

The Express women’s basketball program is led by Head Coach Mike Llanas. Early in the 2009-10 campaign, the Express’ overall record stands at 4-1 after five games. Owens is currently ranked No. 9 in the NJCAA Division II poll.

Admission to the basketball mega scrimmage is $2 per person. For more information, call (567) 661-7941 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7941.

Owens Students Raise Violence Against Women Awareness with Clothesline Project Public Display, Nov. 18

Posted on November 18th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students are raising society’s awareness of violent crimes against women by serving as host to a Clothesline Project display on Wednesday, Nov. 18. The public is encouraged to join the campus community and participate in the educational awareness program.

Owens’ Clothesline Project will be available for public display from 12-4 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. The College is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Clothesline Project at Owens is being presented in collaboration with Behavioral Connections of Wood County. Currently, there are over 200 shirts in the local collection. The overall educational awareness program is coordinated by Owens student Michelle Jones of Maumee as part of a community activism project in her Multicultural Diversity in the United States class.

Owens’ Clothesline Project is a visual display that bears witness to violence against women. As part of the public display, a clothesline is hung with shirts of different colors, each representing individuals victimized by a violent crime. Survivors, family members and friends of women victims of violence design shirts to represent a particular woman’s experience or as a tribute to the women they loved who died as a result of an act of violence. Crimes of homicide, rape/sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, incest/child sexual abuse, sexual harassment, battering/assault and attack due to an individual’s sexual orientation are represented within the Clothesline Project.

Nationally Recognized Author Dr. Janell Carroll to Speak at Owens Community College, Nov. 19

Posted on November 16th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in gaining insight into how sexual attitudes, practices and behaviors vary by culture are invited to a free lecture featuring nationally known author and researcher Dr. Janell Carroll at Owens Community College on Thursday, Nov. 19.

Sponsored by the College’s Social and Behavioral Sciences Department as part of their annual Lecture Series, Carroll’s lecture presentation will occur at 9:30 a.m. in College Hall Room 100 on the Toledo-area Campus. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Additionally, Carroll’s presentation will discuss the ethnocentric approach that many Americans hold when evaluating cross-cultural sexuality. She will also explore the role of culture in the expression of human sexuality, as well as provide guidance and understanding related to how society’s own attitudes and values about sexuality should not be the standard by which individuals judge those living in different parts of the world.

Carroll serves on the faculty of the Psychology Department at the University of Hartford in West Hartford, Conn. Her research has been published in a variety of national and international journals and she has written syndicated sexuality columns and articles. Carroll also has hosted a top rated radio talk show on sexuality and is the author of the highly acclaimed college-level sexuality textbook titled “Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity” and a popular book for young women titled “The Day Aunt Flo Comes To Visit: An Honest Conversation About Getting Your Period”.

Carroll regularly lectures and presents her research at meetings and symposiums around the globe. Over the last few years, her cross-cultural sexuality research has taken her to places such as France, Egypt, Australia, Germany, Japan and Holland in an attempt to learn more about how culture affects sexual behavior, attitudes and practices. Carroll has appeared as an expert on a variety of television news and entertainment shows including NBC, CBS, Oxygen and Lifetime and has received mention in the “Los Angeles Times”, “New York Times”, “Prevention”, “Women’s Health” and “Glamour”, among other publications.

For additional information about the event, call (567) 661-7180 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7180.

Owens Express Baseball Student-Athletes and Coaches to Help Needy Families at Toledo Seagate Food Bank, Nov. 21

Posted on November 16th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Express men’s baseball team will be providing a helping hand to those in need during this Thanksgiving holiday season as 27 student-athletes and coaches volunteer their time at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank on Saturday, Nov. 21.

Beginning at 9 a.m., the baseball team will be sorting thousands of recently donated food items from the Toledo Seagate Food Bank’s annual holiday donation drive titled “Stuff the Truck”. In addition to sorting the collected items, Owens’ student-athletes and coaches will be packing the various donations for eventual delivery to needy families and individuals throughout Northwest Ohio.

“There many people throughout Northwest Ohio who are without food on a daily basis,” said Bob Schultz, Owens Head Coach of the Men’s Baseball Program. “The Owens Community College Express baseball team is proud to once again help the Toledo Seagate Food Bank in their efforts to fight hunger and make a difference in the lives of those in need.”

Schultz added, “In today’s economic times there are even more families who are struggling. I encourage people to make a donation to their area food bank as supplies are very low.”

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll and lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships. The baseball team will be volunteering at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank until 11:30 a.m.

Individuals interested in donating to the “Stuff the Truck” holiday collection drive this weekend can drop off their items at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank, which is located at 526 High St. in Toledo. Items being collected include canned meats, grocery/food items, chilled and frozen foods, canned/frozen/bottled beverages, detergents, and paper goods, among other donations. For more information about the “Stuff the Truck” holiday collection drive, call (419) 244-6996.

Owens Men’s Basketball to Host Express Tip-Off Classic, Nov. 13-14

Posted on November 13th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s basketball team will take an overall 0-2 record into this weekend as they host their annual Express Tip-Off Classic tournament, Friday-Saturday, Nov. 13-14.

Beginning at 8 p.m. on Friday, the host Express will face Kellogg Community College, while Hillsborough Community College will take on TCI College of Technology at 6 p.m. in the earlier game.

On Saturday (Nov. 14), the consolation game will occur at 5 p.m. The Tip-Off Classic championship contest will follow the consolation game and begin at 7 p.m.

Owens Women’s Basketball to Host Express Tip-Off Classic, Nov. 14-15

Posted on November 13th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s basketball team will take an overall 3-0 record into this weekend as they host their annual Express Tip-Off Classic tournament, Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 14-15.

Beginning at 12 p.m. on Saturday, the host Express will face Delta College, while Hillsborough Community College will take on TCI College of Technology at 2 p.m.

On Sunday (Nov. 15), the consolation game will occur at 12 p.m. The Tip-Off Classic championship contest will follow the consolation game and begin at 2 p.m.

The Owens women’s basketball program is currently ranked No. 11 in the NJCAA Division II poll.

Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts and Students Present ‘Recent Tragic Events,’ Nov. 19-22

Posted on November 12th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Edge of your seat suspense will engulf the Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre as Owens Community College presents the student production of “Recent Tragic Events,” Nov. 19-22.

The first of several performances will occur at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19 in the College’s Mainstage Theatre. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts is excited to present such a unique theatrical production, featuring the talents of so many Owens students,” said Doug Mead, Owens Chair of Fine and Performing Arts. “‘Recent Tragic Events’ is an unbelievably powerful and engaging theatre production and the talented student actors are sure to leave community members speechless with their performance centered around such a tragic time in our nation’s history as Sept. 11, 2001.”

Written by Craig Wright, “Recent Tragic Events” tells the story of Andrew and Waverly deciding to spend their pre-arranged date at Waverly’s apartment on Sept. 12, 2001 because she has been unable to contact her twin sister Wendy, who lives in New York City, but had no reason to be near the World Trade Center when it was attacked. As the evening unfolds, both Waverly and Andrew realize they are connected by a succession of bizarre coincidences which lead to a thought-provoking conclusion for theatre attendees.

The cast of “Recent Tragic Events” is comprised of students from Owens and theatrical production is directed by Owens Instructor of Fine and Performing Arts Jeremy Meier. Owens student Matt Cooper of Defiance will serve as assistant director.

Students involved in the production as cast members include Jessica Kraus of Toledo, Jeremy Wilkes of Oregon, Anthony Hunter of Toledo, Kala Smith of North Baltimore and Jon Masters of Toledo. Owens’ Kari Duffy of Toledo and Danielle Lindner of Toledo will serve as the stage manager and assistant stage manager, respectively, while Andrew MacMillan-Ladd of Toledo will the hold position of dramaturg for the production.

“Recent Tragic Events” will be performed Nov. 19-21 at 7:30 p.m. A matinee and evening performance will also occur on Sunday, Nov. 22 at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., respectively. Due to the strong language, the “Recent Tragic Events” performance is recommended for mature audiences.

Tickets are $12 for the general public and $8 for Owens students and employees. All seats are general admission. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information, call the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. ARTS (2787).

Owens Community College School of Nursing Submits Application for NLNAC Accreditation Candidacy Status

Posted on November 11th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s School of Nursing has taken its first step toward National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) accreditation for the registered nursing program by submitting the application for candidacy status, which is part of the multi-step process to regain accreditation.

Candidacy is the first step toward NLNAC accreditation and is granted after the NLNAC reviews a program’s faculty, curriculum and resources. Once the review determines that the program has the potential to achieve NLNAC accreditation, the academic institution is granted candidacy status. Subsequent steps following the award of candidacy status include a written self-study and an NLNAC site visit to both the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

According to Owens Vice Provost Dr. Renay Scott, the NLNAC has notified Owens Community College that it has received the candidacy form application and we have been invited to prepare a full candidacy presentation, which involves the School of Nursing showing how it meets the NLNAC’s faculty, curriculum and resource standards.

“Owens Community College values the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission’s accreditation and its hallmark of excellence and is committed to regaining and retaining full accreditation status,” stated Vice Provost Scott. “The Registered Nursing Program and its faculty and staff are leaders both within higher education and the health care community and are working diligently on the NLNAC multi-step process with the ultimate goal of becoming accredited as an NLNAC Nursing Program.”

Led by Owens’ nursing faculty and staff, intensive work is currently taking place within the School of Nursing for the NLNAC accreditation process to measure all aspects of the registered nursing program against the 2008 NLN Standards and Criteria. An inclusive team approach is in place, with each group taking responsibility for one of the six NLN Standards. Every member of the School of Nursing is involved in critical self-review and analysis of the School’s mission and administrative capacity, faculty and staff, students, curriculum, resources and outcomes. Additionally, members of the School of Nursing are planning to attend the upcoming self-study forums presented by the NLNAC.

Established in 1969 as the first associate degree program of its kind in Northwest Ohio, the School of Nursing’s registered nursing program has a rich and storied history of providing highly qualified health care professionals who are working in acute care agencies, physician offices, long-term care agencies and outpatient ambulatory areas throughout the region and beyond. Over 460 students are enrolled in the registered nursing program during the current fall term.

Owens’ registered nursing program requires 72 credit hours of coursework. Following graduation, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure examination and upon passage are licensed to practice nursing in the state of Ohio. Owens’ longstanding commitment to academic excellence is highlighted by 94 percent of the College’s registered nursing students passing the NCLEX-RN exam in September 2009, which was six percent and seven percent higher than those who passed statewide and nationwide respectively.

The College’s registered nursing program has been approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing since 1971 and received its initial accreditation from the National League for Nursing in 1974.

Owens Community College Announces Establishment of the School of Nursing and Names New Dean

Posted on November 10th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College and the Department of Nursing are investing in the future of higher education by announcing the establishment of a new School of Nursing. The Department of Nursing, formerly under the School of Health Sciences, will now be organized into a separate School within the College to provide greater support and expanded educational resources for the various academic programs.

Additionally, Dawn Wetmore of Perrysburg has been named to serve as the new Dean of the School of Nursing. Her responsibilities will include providing administrative leadership for all instructional programs and activities within the newly created School of Nursing on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

Her new position will also entail providing guidance in the development and implementation of new academic curricula, directing the on-going evaluation of the School’s courses and providing assessment of student learning, as well as overseeing budget planning and management, articulation and transfer agreements, and the development of community partnerships. Among the academic areas comprising the new School are the registered nursing, licensed practical nursing, state tested nurse assistant and the licensed practical nursing to registered nursing programs.

Academic programs within the School of Nursing have a rich and storied history in providing highly qualified health care professionals who are serving as registered nurses, practical nurses and nurse assistants in health care settings throughout the region and beyond. Owens’ longstanding commitment to academic excellence is highlighted by 94 percent of Owens registered nursing students passing the NCLEX-RN exam in September 2009, which was six percent and seven percent higher than those who passed statewide and nationwide respectively.

“The new Owens Community College School of Nursing will provide greater support for the various nursing programs that the academic institution offers,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Owens Vice Provost. “We retain our commitment to quality for our students and their education in the demanding and growing health care field. This structure is not new within higher education and allows us to focus on the College’s efforts to grow resources and opportunities for our students.”

Vice Provost Scott added, “Owens Community College is honored to have Dawn Wetmore serving as the founding Dean of the School of Nursing and confident that her leadership will further the College’s longstanding tradition and commitment to providing the highest level of academic excellence through enhanced educational opportunities and resources for current and future students.”

Since December 2007, Wetmore has served as the Dean of Health Sciences and Director of Nursing at Monroe County Community College. While at Monroe County Community College, she is responsible for overseeing the academic institution’s programs in registered nursing, licensed practical nursing, registered nursing from licensed practical nursing/licensed vocational nurse (online), respiratory therapy, gerontology, phlebotomy and electrocardiograpy, as well as the nurse aid training course and all credit courses in health and physical education.

Prior to her position at Monroe County Community College, Wetmore held several administrative positions at Owens from 1996-2007, which includes most recently serving as the College’s Dean of Academic Services where she assisted with all aspects related to the coordination and development of instructional programs and support services for the various academic Schools.

From 1999-2004, Wetmore was the Chair of the College’s Nursing Department. During her tenure as Chair, she played an instrumental role in the College securing its state-of-the-art human patient simulator technology and incorporating the new experiential learning resource into the program’s academic curriculum. Additionally, Wetmore’s leadership was responsible for increasing the NCLEX-RN exam student-passing rate to a 95 percentile and introducing the licensed practical nursing certificate program on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses and the international nursing certificate program on the Toledo-area Campus. She also held the position of Assistant Chair for Owens’ Department of Nursing from 1996-99. Prior to joining Owens, Wetmore served as the Director of Instructional Services at the former Medical College of Ohio School of Nursing (now the University of Toledo Medical Center).

Wetmore’s past and current professional involvement includes membership with the Michigan Council of Nursing Education Administrators, the Ohio Nurses Association, the Northwest Ohio Nurses Association and the National League for Nursing. She previously served as President of the Medical College of Ohio (now the University of Toledo Medical Center) Nursing Alumni Association, the Northwest Ohio Nurses Association and the Toledo Area Oncology Nurses Society.

Her accomplishments include receiving the Leadership Award from Zeta Theta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau international nursing honor society and serving a five-year gubernatorial appointment to the Ohio Board of Nursing from 1996-2000.

Wetmore earned a master’s degree in nursing from the former Medical College of Ohio (now the University of Toledo Medical Center) and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Mary Manse College. Her educational background also includes receiving a diploma in nursing from the Providence School of Nursing in Mobile, Ala.

Owens Community College Celebrates International Education Week, Nov. 16-20

Posted on November 10th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will celebrate International Education Week with a series of events and activities highlighting multinational experiences, Nov. 16-20. All events are free and open to public.

The week’s events will kick off on Monday, Nov. 16, with a community celebration focused on the importance of international education from a global perspective. The celebration will commence with remarks from Owens Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Paul Unger and Owens Vice President of Student Services Dr. Bill Ivoska. Additionally, Owens international students will share their higher education experience from an international student perspective as part of the event. The International Education Week kick-off event will begin at 10 a.m. and occur in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

From 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center hallway that same day, International Education Week attendees will have the opportunity to visit several international student booths and experience different cultures and nationalities as part of an “Around the Globe” fair. In addition to the “Around the Globe” fair, attendees will have the chance to participate in an international quiz contest and international scavenger hunt to test their knowledge about world geography. Both activities will occur from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center hallway.

On Tuesday, Nov. 17, individuals can “Test Drive a World Language” as the College’s Department of Communications, Humanities and Languages provide an interactive language lesson from 12-2 p.m. in College Hall Room 100. Languages which attendees can try include Arabic, French, American Sign Language and German, among many others. Additionally, an international cafÈ will be available for individuals to sample delectable delights from around the globe from 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. in conjunction with a second “Around the Globe” fair, international quiz contest and international scavenger hunt from 12-4 p.m. The international cafÈ, “Around the Globe” fair, international quiz contest and international scavenger hunt activities will take place in the hallway outside of College Hall Room 100.

International education week activities will continue on Wednesday, Nov. 18, with area residents and Owens employees and students having the opportunity to view and purchase an array of handcrafts from around the world presented by 10,000 Villages, an organization that promotes international fair trade by marketing products from diverse cultures made by artisans. The display will be located in the hallway outside of College Hall Room 100 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The 10,000 Villages will also make their handcrafts available for purchase in the Student Health and Activities Center from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19. Also on Wednesday (Nov. 18), individuals interested in showcasing their dancing skills are invited to participate in an instructional program which will teach the steps to the Oscar award-winning Best Achievement in Music Written for Motions Pictures, Original Song “Jai Ho” in the film “Slumdog Millionaire”. The dance instruction will be taught by the College’s Dance Express Team student organization from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center.

In addition, Owens will have the honor of welcoming area residents and witnessing them become United States citizens at the Toledo-area Campus on Thursday, Nov. 19, as the College will serve as host to a U.S. Naturalization Ceremony. The public ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128. That same day, individuals will have the opportunity to listen to the unique rhythmic sounds of an Owens student percussion ensemble class and their Assistant Professor of Fine and Performing Arts Michael Sander as they perform an international percussion demonstration from 2-3 p.m. in the College Hall Atrium.

International Education Week activities will conclude on Friday, Nov. 20, as Owens hosts an international documentary film and discussion event from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. in College Hall Room 100. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the film “God Grew Tired of Us: The Story of the Lost Boys of Sudan” followed by an interactive discussion about the three boys and their arduous journey from the Sudan to the United States led by Owens Instructor of Social and Behavioral Sciences L. Scott Deaner.

The College’s International Student Services is also hosting an international photography contest in which Owens employees and students can submit photos taken outside the United States that exhibit significance in the areas of culture, heritage and landscape. Choice selections from the international photography contest will be on display within Owens’ Student Health and Activities Center during International Education Week.

International Education Week was established as part of a joint initiative with the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education to support programs dedicated to preparing Americans for a global environment and to attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn and exchange experiences in the United States.

Owens continues to serve as a leader in providing higher education to international students. Over 135 students from 39 countries are pursuing a higher education at Owens during the fall term. Countries represented in Owens’ international student enrollment are Kenya, Egypt, China, Korea, India, Venezuela, Brazil, Uruguay, Germany and Turkey, among others.

For additional information about Owens’ International Education Week activities, call (567) 661-2773 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2773.

Owens Community College Hosts Tribute to Veterans, Nov. 11

Posted on November 5th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will honor American service men and women as students host Veterans Day activities on Wednesday, Nov. 11.

Veterans Day events will occur on both the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay. The activities are free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Beginning at 10 a.m. in the College’s Conference Center on the Findlay-area Campus, Owens will serve as host to a panel discussion involving students who have served or are currently serving as military reservists or active duty members in the United States armed forces. Discussion topics will focus on the students’ military experience as well as adjusting to life after defending and preserving the United States’ freedom and liberty. Among the Owens students comprising the panel are Drew Zink of Upper Sandusky, Deanna Lenhart of Findlay, Brian Tumey of Carey and Linsee Ostrander of Findlay.

Also, a flag raising ceremony will take place at 12 p.m. in front of Administration Hall on the Toledo-area Campus. A moment of silence will follow the flag raising ceremony. Additionally, a World War II veteran Frank Duncan of Perrysburg will serve as a guest speaker and discuss his wartime experience and how it compares to modern day.

In addition, individuals interested in chasing away the fall chills are invited to attend a Veterans Day Chili Cook-Off from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the College Hall Atrium on the Toledo-area Campus. Attendees will the opportunity to sample an assortment of chili from various individuals and then vote on their favorite edible delight. Freewill donations will be accepted and entitle each person to sample the various chili.

The Veterans Day Chili Cook-Off is being presented by the Veterans Student Club and all event proceeds will be donated to the Honor Flight Northwest Ohio, which is dedicated to sending veterans of Northwest Ohio to Washington D.C. to see the memorials built and dedicated in their honor. Founded in 2007, the organization has safely flown over 330 veterans to Washington D.C.

Owens’ Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to assisting veterans, reserve, guard and dependents in their pursuit of the college education. To date, over 400 individuals are involved in Owens’ veterans services programs.

Seventh Annual Faculty Art Showcase on Display at Owens’ Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery, Nov. 9 – Dec. 11

Posted on November 4th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Community members will have the opportunity to view the diverse and vibrant work of some of Northwest Ohio’s finest artists as Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts hosts the seventh annual Faculty Art Showcase, Nov. 9 – Dec. 11. The exhibition will be on display in the College’s Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery.

“Owens Community College Center for Fine and Performing Arts is proud to showcase exciting new works of art produced by our outstanding faculty members,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Part-time Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “This exhibition will provide area residents and students with the chance to view various artistic expressions and celebrate the talent and diversity that the faculty exemplifies.”

Wynn added, “Owens is fortunate to draw on such an extremely talented arts community for its faculty.”

The art showcase features artwork created by many notable and highly acclaimed Owens faculty members, including Michelle Carlson of Toledo, Todd Cotton of Toledo, Mania Dajnak of Perrysburg, Ruth Foote of Toledo, JoAnne Gembolis of Sylvania, Melissa Harding of McClure, Philip Hazard of Toledo, Nancy Light of Waterville, Larry Linkous of Rossford, Margaret Lockwood-Lass of Toledo, Julie Schnell-Madden of Temperance, Mich., Carey Marten of Northwood, Megan Merrell of Toledo, Mark Pechlivanos of Toledo, Clayton Peterson of Perrysburg, Kevin Schroeder of Toledo, Renee Turissini of Maumee, John Walz of Waterville, Sally Welch of Perrysburg, Barbara Johnson of Sylvania, Carol Kauber of Bowling Green, Clay Leonard of Bowling Green, Tamara Monk of Bowling Green, Kelly Averill Savino of Toledo, Jeremy Wadsworth of Clyde and Lori King of Toledo. A wide range of visual media will be featured, including works of art in the areas of painting, printmaking, ceramics, photography, graphic design, glass and sculpture.

To celebrate the opening of the faculty showcase, a free reception will be held on Friday, Nov. 13 from 6-8 p.m. in the College’s Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Admission to the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays; from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; and from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturdays. For additional information about the College’s exhibition season, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2721 or (567) 661-2721.

Area Students to Learn About Information Technology Careers as Part of Statewide Program at Owens, Nov. 13

Posted on November 3rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 270 girls in grades 7-10 from Northwest Ohio will have the opportunity to learn about and explore the various career options available within information technology as Owens Community College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses host a “We Are IT” professional conference on Friday, Nov. 13.

Owens’ “We Are IT” professional conference, which is being held in conjunction with the Ohio IT Business Advisory Network and the Office of Career-Technical and Adult Education of the Ohio Department of Education, is part of a statewide initiative involving 18 college and university campuses working together for the purpose of providing female students with a broad-based introduction to information technology applications and career opportunities. The “We Are IT” professional conferences occurring throughout Ohio are expected to reach over 2,500 girls.

The “We Are IT” event will occur from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center, Center for Fine and Performing Arts and Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building on the Toledo-area Campus and in the Community Education and Wellness Center on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the College’s Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

Between 10 a.m. – 12:20 p.m. on the Toledo-area Campus and 9:50-11:30 a.m. and 12-12:30 p.m. on the Findlay-area Campus, conference attendees will have the opportunity to participate in several breakout sessions. Students will explore a wide variety of career paths and vocations in information technology, including 3-D animation using the ALICE Programming Language (Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses), wikis and blogs (Findlay-area Campus), Microsoft Office 2007 (Toledo-area Campus), web page design (Toledo-area Campus), computer forensics (Toledo-area Campus), computer diagnostics (Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses), computer security (Toledo-area Campus), computer machining (Toledo-area Campus), open source computing (Findlay-area Campus) and geospatial information systems (Toledo-area Campus).

In addition to the lecture portion of each session, students will be given a project to complete in order to further learn the concepts being taught. Sessions will be taught by various members of Owens’ information technology, fine and performing arts, manufacturing and industrial operations, and electrical/electronics engineering faculty, staff and students, among others. Additionally, Penta Career Center and Bowling Green State University Firelands representatives will be on hand to teach several of the breakout sessions.

Students will also have time during lunch to meet individuals from local businesses and ask them questions concerning their professions. Additionally, they will receive information on how to go about choosing a career within information technology after completing their education.

Other academic institutions participating in the statewide initiative include Edison State Community College, University of Akron, Columbus State Community College, Hocking College, Kent State University, Lakeland Community College, North Central State College, Northwest State Community College, Sinclair Community College and Youngstown State University, among others.

Owens offers a wide variety of academic programs within information technology through the College’s School of Business and Information Systems, and past graduates have gone on to high paying careers as computer programmers, systems analysts, Internet support specialists, network support specialists and information systems managers throughout Northwest Ohio. Information technology-specific programs offered at Owens include Computer Programming, E-Business, Information Systems, Networking and Information Systems Support, and Information Technology.

Students from several area schools are expected to be in attendance, including Kalida Middle and High School, Continental High School, Donnell Middle School (Findlay City Schools), Leverette Junior High School (Toledo Public Schools), Libbey High School, Scott High School, Delta Middle and High School, Great Lakes Environmental Academy, Gesu School, Queen of Apostles School, Rosary Cathedral School and Woodward High School.

Owens Express Women’s Volleyball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Nov. 6-8

Posted on November 3rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s volleyball team will look to advance to their seventh national tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Women’s Championship this weekend. The tournament will be held at Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, Mich., Friday-Sunday, Nov. 6-8.

Coached by Sonny Lewis, the Express will take a 30-18 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play against Schoolcraft College (21-15) at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6 in quarterfinal action. If they would advance, the Express will play the winner of the Henry Ford Community College (8-16)/St. Clair County Community College (35-11) match at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7 in the semifinals. The championship match will occur at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Columbus State Community College (35-7), Mott Community College (14-29), Macomb Community College (31-6) and Oakland Community College (32-11).

Lewis’ squad finished 9-3 (second place tie) in the OCCAC regular season standings.

The NJCAA Division II National Championship will be held Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 19-21 in Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Owens Community College Express Men’s Basketball Opens Season Against Henry Ford Community College, Nov. 5

Posted on November 3rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s basketball will begin its 2009-10 campaign with a season-opening home contest against Henry Ford Community College on Thursday, Nov. 5. The game will begin at 7 p.m.

All home games are free and held at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s basketball program is led by third-year Head Coach Kevin Skaggs. His Assistant Coaches are Corey Tucker and Allen Drake (Interim). Owens finished the 2008-09 season with a 15-16 overall record and an 8-6 mark (third place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. The Express lost to Cuyahoga Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“We’re really looking forward to the beginning of the basketball regular season,” said Skaggs. “We have a great group of incoming first-year student-athletes who want to be a part of the Express men’s basketball tradition. At the same time, the team is extremely young with only two returning veterans. I am really proud of this team as they are working extremely hard and putting forth the effort that is necessary to compete against some of the top teams in the country.”

Skaggs added, “The conference should once again be very competitive with several teams vying for the title. Our goal is to be one of those teams shooting for a conference crown in January and February.”

Owens has two returning players, including Joshua Robinson of Elkhart, Ind. (Elkhart Central H.S.) and Michael Lee of Inkster, Mich. (Wayne Memorial H.S.). During the 2008-09 season, the sophomore guard and team captain averaged 8.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. Lee, a sophomore guard and team captain, averaged 8.8 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.9 assists for Owens.

First-year players are Traymone Camak of Toledo, guard (Rogers H.S.); Virgil McGuire of Jackson, Mich., guard (Jackson H.S.); Calvin Edwards of Delaware, guard/forward (Rutherford B. Hayes H.S.); Tommy Kralovic of Rossford, guard (Rossford H.S.); Earl Hardison of Westland, Mich., guard (John Glenn H.S.); Jonathan Dunn of Toledo, guard/forward (St. John’s Jesuit H.S.); Derrick Sanderfer Jr. of Toledo, guard/forward (Rogers H.S.); Dylan Jablonski of Erie, Mich., center (Mason H.S.); Bruce Huntley Jr. of Toledo, guard/forward (Central Catholic H.S.); Jeff Delva of Detroit, center (Western International H.S.); Craig Short of Toledo, forward/center (Rogers H.S.), and Dalante Heard of Toledo, center (Rogers H.S.).

Owens Women’s Basketball Student-Athlete Named NJCAA Pre-Season All-American

Posted on November 2nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball student-athlete Sarah Clark of Delphos has been named to the NJCAA Division II Pre-Season All-American Second Team.

Clark, a Delphos St. John’s High School graduate, led the team with a 15.3 points per game average last year. Additionally, the sophomore guard/forward averaged 7.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.3 steals. Her postseason honors included being named to the OCCAC All-Conference Second Team.

The Express women’s basketball program opens its 2009-10 season this evening (Monday, Nov. 2) against Mott Community College. The game will begin at 6 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

In addition, the Owens women’s basketball program has earned the distinction of being ranked No. 11 in the NJCAA Division II preseason poll. Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa received the No. 1 ranking.

The Express ended last season with an 18-12 overall record and a third-place finish in the OCCAC (7-5 record). Owens lost to Oakland Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Champship.

Owens Fine and Performing Arts Students Lend Helping Hand to Needy Organizations and Families With Food Drive, Nov. 2-18

Posted on November 2nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Music Business I class is reaching out to needy organizations and families in the Northwest Ohio region by partnering with the Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank and hosting a food drive in conjunction with the second annual “Creative Noises Live” Fall Artist Series, Nov. 2-18.

Beginning on Monday, Nov. 2, the College’s Music Business I class will accept an assortment of donations to include peanut butter, canned goods (meats, stews, tuna fish, pork and beans, navy beans and soup), apple sauce, peaches, pears, fruit cocktail, green beans, corn, peas, dry pasta, dried beans, powered milk, spaghetti sauce, macaroni and cheese, cereal, saltine crackers, toilet paper, soap, shampoo and deodorant, among other items. The donation drive will run through Wednesday, Nov. 18. All collected donations will then be delivered to the Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank and given to needy individuals and organizations as part of their outreach efforts.

Donations can be dropped off in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda during designated “Creative Noises Live” Fall Artist Series performances in November. All performances, which are free and open to the public, will take place from 2-3 p.m. on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

Coordinated and promoted by the College’s Music Business I class, the Fall Artist Series showcases the accomplishments of Owens students in a number of performances ranging from vocal to theatre. The dates and performance schedule includes Monday, Nov. 2 (Owens String Ensemble and Owens Classical Guitar Ensemble); Wednesday, Nov. 4 (Owens Woodwind Ensemble); Monday, Nov. 9 (Owens Jazz Ensemble); Wednesday, Nov. 11 (Owens Voices Concert and Owens Percussion Ensemble); Monday, Nov. 16 (Owens Songwriting Performance and Owens Theatrical Readings), and Wednesday, Nov. 18 (Owens Choir Concert).

For more information about the “Creative Noises Live” Fall Artist Series or the donation drive, contact the College’s Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank Inc. (TNWOFB) is a non-profit organization established to enable other community organizations to end hunger. Over the past 25 years the TNWOFB has distributed more than 70 million pounds of food and grocery products to assist those in need. Currently, the TNWOFB serves a network of more than 300 member agencies in an eight county area, including Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky, Williams and Wood. Agencies include food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, non-profit daycare centers, foster care associations, non-profit rehabilitation centers, group homes and programs for the elderly and children. Since 1984, the TNWOFB has been an affiliate of Feeding America formerly known as America’s Second Harvest, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization. For more information on the Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank Inc. visit www.toledofoodbank.org.

Owens Community College Celebrates First-Ever Diversity Inclusion Day, Nov. 5

Posted on October 30th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College and several academic institutions and community groups will celebrate the importance of diversity and its identity in higher education and the community with a series of free events as part of the first-ever Diversity Inclusion Day on Thursday, Nov. 5. The public is encouraged to join the campus community for guest speakers and educational awareness programs.

Presented by two students within the College’s Honors Program, all events and activities will occur in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to collaborate with area community groups and organizations and celebrate diversity and its significance in our society through several events and activities that are designed to raise awareness about gender, ethnicity, religion, language and culture,” said Jenny Wiley, Owens Honors Program student and Co-Diversity Inclusion Day Event Coordinator.

Owens Honors Program student and Co-Diversity Inclusion Day Event Coordinator Nick Komives added, “I encourage area residents to engage themselves in Owens’ Diversity Inclusion Day and draw inspiration from the varied topics and messages.”

Activities will commence at 11 a.m. with the Executive Director of Adelante, the Latino Resource Center in Toledo, Sonia Troche providing attendees with a presentation on the economic impact of Latinos within the Northwest Ohio region and beyond. A rebroadcast of PBS’s FRONTLINE report titled “The Two Nations of Black America” will air following Troche’s lecture at 11:30 a.m. “The Two Nations of Black America” broadcast will provide insight into Henry Louise Gates Jr.’s exploration of the gaping chasm between the upper and lower classes of Black America and the results of such a separation in today’s society.

The second guest lecture of the day will take place at 12:30 p.m. and feature Graduate Assistant and Coordinator of Bowling Green State University’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Resource Center Annie Russell. Her presentation topic will look into demystifying stereotypical views related to homophobia. Beginning at 1 p.m., Diversity Inclusion Day attendees will have the opportunity to view the film “For the Bible Tells Me So”. The award-winning documentary will tell the story of how five families of faith handle the realization of having a gay child.

Owens’ Diversity Inclusion Day events will continue at 2:45 p.m. with Rev. Beth Marshall, Parish Minister at First Unitarian Church of Toledo, leading a discussion on religious discrimination prevalent in today’s society as part of a lecture titled “We All Have Roots”. A viewing of the film “Religulous” will follow Rev. Marshall’s lecture at 3:15 p.m. The film will examine the presence and impact of religion in the daily lives of several individuals.

The final guest lecture of the day will begin at 5 p.m. and feature Bowling Green State University SMART (Students of Color, Mentoring, Aiding, Retaining and Teaching) Coordinator Ana Brown. Her interactive presentation is titled “The N-Word” and will provide attendees with insight into the meaning and evolution of certain words and the positive or negative impact of word use in today’s society.

In addition to the series of lectures and films, Diversity Inclusion Day attendees will have the opportunity to receive a variety of information related to diversity awareness. Community organizations on hand with informational tables will include Owens Community College, the University of Toledo, the U.S. Census Bureau and Adelante, the Latino Resource Center in Toledo, among others. The informational fair will occur from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the hallway adjacent to the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center.

For additional information about Diversity Inclusion Day, call (567) 661-7523 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7523.

Owens Expands Renewable Energy Program with Installation of 120-Foot Wind Turbine, Oct. 28-30

Posted on October 28th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is once again expanding its educational opportunities within the area of renewable energy by announcing the installation of the academic institution’s second wind turbine, Wednesday-Friday, Oct. 28-30. Similar to the College’s recently-installed 33-foot Skystream 3.7 wind turbine, the new 120-foot EW50 wind turbine will be used for experiential learning purposes within Workforce and Community Services’ new Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certificate programs.

On Wednesday (Oct. 28), Pilot Construction Services LLC based in Kent will begin and complete the process of assembling components of the College’s new wind turbine from 1-5 p.m. The new EW50 wind turbine is a fully integrated, utility-connected wind generator designed specifically for large commercial businesses, farms, communities, schools, municipal facilities, electric cooperatives and remote locations.

The installation process will continue on Thursday (Oct. 29) as the new wind turbine will be erected into its proper vertical position adjacent to the College’s Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building on Toledo-area Campus from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Pilot Construction Services will conclude the installation work on Friday (Oct. 30) from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. by conducting preliminary operational safety tests on the new wind energy technology.

In addition to its instructional utilization for the College’s new Wind Turbine Installation and Wind Technology Maintenance Technician certification programs, the 50-kilowatt wind turbine generator will be used to convert wind power into electricity for regular operational purposes within the Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building.

Unemployed and dislocated workers, who currently are participating in the initial Wind Turbine Installation and Maintenance Technician Program through the academic institution’s new $1.9 million federal stimulus grant initiative, are intended to serve as the first students to receive instruction on the new wind turbine. Additionally, unemployed and dislocated workers attending the College’s Wind Turbine Installation Training Program in Kenton as part of a partnership between Owens and the Hardin County One Stop are expected to utilize the technology for educational purposes in the near future.

Individuals attending the Wind Turbine Installation and Maintenance Technician Program through the federal stimulus grant initiative are receiving instruction in the installation, operation and maintenance of wind turbines for futures careers as a wind turbine installer and wind technology maintenance technician. Course content also highlights electrical principles, fluid power fundamentals, environmental safety, OSHA safety and power distribution systems, as well as wind measurement, estimating power output, the economics of wind power, wind technology and interconnection of utilities, among other academic areas.

Students participating Owens’ Wind Turbine Installation Training Program in Hardin County are receiving education within the areas of installation, operation and maintenance of wind turbines for eventual careers as wind turbine installers. Academic coursework includes training in wind measurement, system terminology and connection to a power grid, among other areas. Installation practices related to installation safety, basics of electricity, interconnection with the utility, siting, battery metering, and load management and energy efficiency are also highlighted.

Owens’ Workforce and Community Services will be offering its initial academic course offering within the Wind Turbine Installation Certificate Program to area residents in February 2010.

For more information about the new programs, call (567) 661 7357 or 1 800 GO OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Opens Season Against Mott Community College, Nov. 2

Posted on October 28th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball will open its 2009-10 season against Mott Community College on Monday, Nov. 2. The season opener will begin at 6 p.m.

The Owens women’s basketball program is led by sixth-year Head Coach Michael Llanas. During his fifth year at the helm, Llanas led the Express to an 18-12 overall record and a third-place finish in the OCCAC (7-5 record). Owens lost to Oakland Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships last year. Llanas’ Assistant Coaches are Stephen Perry and Melanie Schroeder.

All home games are free and occur at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Our coaching staff is very excited about this year’s team,” Llanas said. “We have a great group of both first-year and returning players who bring high intensity, great athleticism and a strong work ethic to the basketball court each and every day. This team has the opportunity to be very successful and achieve great things both during the regular season and in the postseason.”

The Express have five players returning from last year’s team, including Sarah Clark of Delphos (Delphos St. John’s H.S.) and Ashley Hooker of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.). In 2008-09, Clark led the team with a 15.3 points per game average. The sophomore guard/forward also averaged 7.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.3 steals for the Express. Her postseason honors included OCCAC All-Conference Second Team selection. Hooker, a sophomore guard/forward, averaged 3.8 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1 assist during the 2008-09 season. She received the team’s Most Improved Player award and was an NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team selection.

Also returning to Llanas’ squad are Kaila Corrothers of Detroit (Detroit Consortium H.S.), Kelsey Perry of Willard (Willard H.S.) and Brittany Darling of Curtice (Genoa H.S.). Corrothers, a sophomore guard, averaged 4.2 points during the season. During the 2008-09 season, Perry, a sophomore guard, averaged two points, 1.6 rebounds and one assist for the Express. Darling is a sophomore center and averaged 7.7 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.1 blocks for the women’s basketball program last year.

First-year players to the Express women’s basketball program are Rashanna Johnson of Columbus, point guard (Whitehall-Yearling H.S.); Nasumbi Beard of Mansfield, point guard (Ontario H.S.); Demi Moschetti of Perrysburg, forward/center (Perrysburg H.S.); Jasmine Blanton of Toledo, guard (Notre Dame Academy); Jordan Floyd of Waterville, guard/forward (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Renee Bidlack of Payne, forward (Wayne Trace H.S.); Gabbie Cerovski of Hebron, guard (Lakewood H.S.); Saige Meyer of Deshler, guard (Patrick Henry H.S.), and Karrah Windau of Carey, forward (Carey H.S.).

Owens Express Men’s Soccer Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Oct. 31 – Nov. 1

Posted on October 28th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s soccer team will look to advance to their first national tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Soccer Championship this weekend. The tournament will be held at Cuyahoga Community College in Parma, Ohio, Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 31 – Nov. 1.

Coached by Art Johnson, the Express will take a 12-6-1 overall record into the four-team single elimination tournament where they will play Schoolcraft College (13-1-1) at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31. If they would advance, the Express will play the Cincinnati State CC (15-2-1)/Ancilla College (9-5-0) winner at 12 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1 in the championship game.

If they should win, the Express will host the NJCAA Region XXIV champion for the District D title and right to advance on to the NJCAA Division I national tournament. The championship match would occur on Friday, Nov. 6.

Johnson’s team finished in second place in the final Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (3-3 record) standings.

The NJCAA Division I National Championship will be held, Nov. 19-22 in Trenton, N.J.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Features ‘Element of Place’ Exhibit, Nov. 2-24

Posted on October 27th, 2009

Tyler Brown’s photograph titled “Arches to Ponder, Paris, France” is among the many artistic expressions on display as part of the Library Gallery’s “Element of Place” exhibit.

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery continues its fall art exhibition season with the works of local artist Tyler Brown. The exhibit titled “Element of Place” will showcase Brown’s unique style of capturing the world and its vivid imagery through the art of masterful photography Nov. 2-24.

In addition, the College will host a reception and gallery talk for Brown on Thursday, Nov. 5 from 6-8 p.m. The reception, which is free and open to the public, will take place in the Findlay-area Campus Library. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery is excited to present this masterful exhibit which showcases the many talents of photographer Tyler Brown,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “One amazing thing about Tyler Brown is how young he is to have developed such a sense of composition and color and weight. I think it must be innate in him, as well as the result of training. Is his photo of Sainte-Chapelle in Paris about the edifice itself, or is it about color and movement and repeated pattern? Tyler is at the beginning of his life in art and it’s clearly going to be a long and deep conversation.”

Brown developed his passion for photography by capturing specific moments in time during his journeys around the globe that included many destinations throughout the United States, Germany and France during the past four years. His love for the outdoors and nature, which is often the focal point of his photographs, has led the Van Buren resident to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology with a specialty in conservation and ecology from Bowling Green State University. Combining his joy for the environment and photography has allowed Brown to capture images from his adventures that include climbing Mount St. Helens, learning the importance of water in the Mojave Desert and boating alongside alligators in the Okefenokee Swamp, among others.

Many of Brown’s works have been exhibited publicly in shows throughout the United States to include appearances at the Toledo Museum of Art, the Drexel University High School Contest Exhibition and the Findlay Art League’s Black and White and Shades of Gray Show. His accolades include receiving Honorable Mention in the New York Photo Awards at the prestigious New York Photo Festival, among many others. Brown’s photography has also been published in “Birds & Blooms Extra” and his photograph “Life Cycle of Butterflies” is featured in the sign for Van Buren Elementary School’s garden education display.

Later this year, Brown’s artistic expressions will be featured in the upcoming edition of the nationally-recognized photography publication “Nature’s Best Photography” and will be exhibited at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Nov. 12 – May 2.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Announces GED Regional Testing Center November Schedule

Posted on October 27th, 2009

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents interested in enhancing basic skills in English or math, or improving employment skills, are encouraged to attend free GED educational opportunities in November at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus.

Additionally, all students must attend an orientation meeting before receiving GED Preparation classroom instruction. Orientation meetings will occur on Thursday, Nov. 12 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. in Room 162, and on Monday, Nov. 9 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. in Room 162. Registration for orientations is not necessary.

The official Ohio GED examination is administered at Owens on one designated day per month. The College’s next official testing date is on Saturday, Nov. 7. GED testing will begin at 7:15 a.m. on the Findlay-area Campus.

For more information on the many GED educational opportunities, call (567) 429-3547 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3547.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Lends Helping Hand to Needy Hancock County Citizens With Pasta Drive, Oct. 26-30

Posted on October 23rd, 2009

FINDLAY, OH – The Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Department of Student Activities and the Child Care Center toddler room are reaching out to area Hancock County citizens by partnering with Findlay’s Chopin Hall and hosting a pasta supply drive, Oct. 26-30.

Beginning Monday, Oct. 26, the Findlay-area Campus will accept an assortment of dry pastas to include spaghetti, elbow macaroni, lasagna, angel hair, manicotti, fettuccini, linguini, ziti and vermicelli, among others. The donation drive will run through Oct. 30. All collected donations will then be delivered to Chopin Hall and given to needy families as part of the organization’s outreach efforts.

“There many people throughout the surrounding region who are without food on a daily basis,” said James Katzner, Owens Manager of Career Education and Student Activities on the Findlay-area Campus. “The Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus is proud to help Chopin Hall in their efforts to fight hunger and make a difference in the lives of those in need.”

Donations can be dropped off on the College’s Findlay-area Campus, which is located on Bright Road in Findlay, at collection points in the Library, the Child Care Center, the Dean’s Office reception area or the Commons area.

Findlay’s Choppin Hall was established in April 1984 by 12 Hancock County churches with the goal of assisting the needy with food, clothing and other emergencies. Since then, the organization is now staffed by over 120 community volunteers and provides services to thousands of individuals annually.

For more information on the Owens Findlay-area Campus pasta drive, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts Presents Free Silent Film Screening and Author Jan Wahl Lecture, Oct. 28

Posted on October 22nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to take a trip down memory lane and the “Golden Age” movies as Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts presents a free screening of the silent-era film classic “It’s the Old Army Game” on Wednesday, Oct. 28. The film will be shown in the Studio Theatre at 7 p.m.

Additionally, Columbus native and eminent author Jan Wahl, known for his short stories, essays and children’s books, will provide first-hand personal accounts of such “Golden Age” movie star luminaries as Louise Brooks, Lillian Gish, Jackie Coogan, Rita Hayworth, Robert Mitchum and Mae West, among many others, prior to the start of the movie. Noted pianist Michael Peslikis will provide musical accompaniment to the 1926 silent film. Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The silent movie “It’s the Old Army Game” is an expansion on four W.C. Fields stage skits, originally performed in the Broadway revue “The Comic Supplement”. Directed by Edward Sutherland, the story begins one evening in the apothecary shop of Elmer Prettywillie in Oscala, Fla. Aroused from his slumbers by a frantic customer, Elmer discovers that all the woman wants is a two-cent stamp. Attempting to mail the letter, the customer inadvertently sets off a fire alarm, which brings the local fire brigade to Elmer’s store. The minute the fire department leaves, a real fire breaks out, which he extinguishes himself. Trying to get back to sleep on the back porch of his store, Elmer is continually awakened by the sounds of the neighborhood, ranging from a squalling infant to a steady stream of street vendors in the rollicking comedic classic. In addition to Fields, other actors and actresses starring in the film include Louise Brooks, Blanche Ring and William Gaxton.

In addition to his introduction of the film, Wahl will provide a book signing and open discussion about his recently-released literary work titled “Dear Stinkpot: Letters From Louise Brooks” in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda. Wahl initially met the legendary movie star when he was a student and it turned out that each of them envisioned future careers as writers. The friendship continued for more than 20 years by letter and in person. The letters and stories of their friendship are detailed within the author’s new book, which reveals insight into Brooks’ inner personality and background.

The Toledo resident has published more than 100 books during his literary career, including “Pleasant Fieldmouse”, “Humphrey’s Bear”, “Knock! Knock!” and “Once When the World Was Green”. Wahl also has garnered many accolades highlighted by the Ohioans Book Award, the Redbook Award and the Christopher Medal, among others, and his books have been published in several foreign languages.

The free silent film screening and author discussion is being presented by the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. For more information, call (567) 661-2721 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2721.

Owens Workforce and Community Services Offers Fall Dementia Awareness Program Workshop, Nov. 7-14

Posted on October 22nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area health care professional who are interested in gaining a deeper insight into the physical and cognitive changes that occur in the various stages of dementia are invited to participate in a Dementia Awareness Program at Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services, Nov. 7-14.

Owens’ workshop is intended for health care professionals who work with dementia patients and will take place on consecutive Saturdays (Nov. 7 and 14) from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. The class will occur at the College’s Workforce and Community Services building on Tracy Road in Northwood.

Earlier this year, Owens established the Dementia Awareness Program with the overall goal of providing individuals with an enhanced understanding of dementia, which annually affects over 24 million individuals worldwide, as well as a deeper sense of empathy toward those with dementia and educational tools for a more healthy and productive interaction between caregivers and dementia patients.

According to Jennifer Finch, Owens Adjunct Faculty member in the College’s Massage Therapy program and Dementia Awareness Program Instructor, dementia is a mind-altering and devastating illness, both for those who have it and for their caregivers.

“The more knowledge individuals have about dementia, the better able they are to care for those who have it and themselves as caregivers. Increased knowledge leads to better care, which eventually leads to less stress for the caregiver,” stated Finch, who is a Nationally Certified Dementia Practitioner and has 12 years of experience working in long-term care facilities helping patients and families adjust to life with dementia.

Workshop instruction will include discussion about the physical and cognitive changes that are occurring within the dementia process, which is a progressive deterioration of the brain that leads to problems in areas such as memory, learning and perception, as well as the physiological reasons behind the changes. Attendees will also obtain tools for enhancing effective communication that will allow for more meaningful interactions and visits, fostering a deeper sense of empathy and compassion, and minimizing behavioral episodes common with the various stages of dementia between patients and the caregiver or family members.

The registration fee for the workshop is $49. For more information, or to register for the class, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Presents ‘Creative Noises Live’ Second Annual Fall Artist Series, Nov. 2-18

Posted on October 22nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents with a passion and an enjoyment of music and theatre are encouraged to join in celebrating the culmination of an academic semester’s worth of Fine and Performing Arts education as Owens Community College presents its second annual “Creative Noises Live” Fall Artist Series, Nov. 2-18.

Coordinated and promoted by the College’s Music Business I class, the Fall Artist Series will showcase the accomplishments of Owens students in a number of performances ranging from vocal to theatre.

“‘Creative Noises Live’ is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the tremendous accomplishments of our Owens Community College Fine and Performing Arts students,” said Denise Grupp-Verbon, Owens Fine and Performing Arts Adjunct Faculty member and Music Business I instructor. “The upcoming recitals, ensembles and staged readings have been mastered through academic learning within the classroom this current fall term. Events such as ‘Creative Noises Live’ provide our students with a great venue to display such creative talents in a real world setting.”

All events will occur in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda on the Toledo-area Campus, which is located in Perrysburg Township. The schedule of events is as follows:

Monday, November 2
Owens String Ensemble and Owens Classical Guitar Ensemble
An array of string instruments, including the violin, viola and cello, and many classical music favorites will be featured by the Owens string ensemble class during the live performance. Students from the Owens classical guitar ensemble class will follow the College’s string ensemble and perform some of their favorite music, showcasing the skills they have acquired through the use of this classic instrument.
(2 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda)

Wednesday, November 4
Owens Woodwind Ensemble
An array of woodwind instruments and many crowd-pleasing musical favorites will be featured by the Owens woodwind ensemble class during the live performance.
(2 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda)

Monday, November 9
Owens Jazz Ensemble
Owens student performers will showcase their many talents through numerous crowd-pleasing musical favorites that highlight many diverse styles of jazz.
(2 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda)

Wednesday, November 11
Owens Voices Concert and Owens Percussion Ensemble
Attendees are in for an afternoon of masterful sounds courtesy of the College’s vocal students. The concert will feature a wide range of music from Broadway hits to many of today’s popular chart-topping songs as part of the performance. Students from the College’s percussion ensemble class will follow the Owens voices concert and showcase their creative percussion skills during a performance that will highlight an array of unique rhythmic sounds.
(2 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda)

Monday, November 16
Owens Songwriting Performance and Owens Theatrical Readings
Owens student performers within the College’s songwriting class will showcase their creative writing and musical skills in a variety of “never heard or seen before” performances. Students from the College’s theatre classes will follow the Owens songwriting performance and stage dramatic live readings that highlight the literary works of several contemporary poets.
(2 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda)

Wednesday, November 18
Owens Choir Concert
The College’s student chorus class will feature a sundry of holiday music, as well as Mozart selections, that feature their vocal talents and abilities.
(2 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda)

All the performances are free and the public is encouraged to attend. For more information about the “Creative Noises Live” Fall Artist Series, contact the College’s Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Community College’s Student Government Offers Free ‘Halloween Alternative’ for Area Children, Oct. 30

Posted on October 21st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Friendly ghosts, skeletons and witches will abound as Owens Community College hosts a variety of free games and activities as part of its fourth annual “Halloween Alternative” for children ages 12 and under on Friday, Oct. 30.

Sponsored by the College’s Student Government, the child-friendly haunted evening will take place from 6-8 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. All activities are free and area residents are welcome to attend with their children.

“Owens Community College’s ‘Halloween Alternative’ is a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy an evening full of fun and entertainment in a safe, warm, indoor setting,” said John Byers, Owens Manager of Student Activities. “Halloween is considered a very special day by many children. The College’s Student Government is proud to provide an event for the Northwest Ohio community that captures the Halloween spirit and excitement.”

Children attending Owens’ “Halloween Alternative” will be able to participate in a variety of arts and crafts during their visit, highlighted by coloring festive Halloween pictures, creating their own ghosts and drawing on keepsake pumpkins. Attendees also will be given a trick-or-treat bag to decorate with their favorite colors and unique Halloween designs. Throughout their haunted adventure, children can trick-or-treat for candy from Owens students and travel through a haunted house.

Additionally, “Halloween Alternative” will include various refreshments and snacks for all attendees.

For more information, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Owens Express Volleyball to Host ‘Volley for the Cure’ During Match Against Lorain County Community College, Oct. 28

Posted on October 20th, 2009

Last year’s “Volley for the Cure” event raised over $400 for breast cancer research.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College volleyball program is encouraging area residents to help in supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the organization’s efforts in the fight against breast cancer by making a donation during the Express’ home match against Lorain County Community College on Wednesday, Oct. 28. The match begins at 6 p.m.

Admission to the home match is $3 per person ($1 for Owens students) with all the proceeds benefiting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure initiative. Additionally, each attendee’s entrance ticket will serve as a raffle ticket for the chance to win the evening’s pink game ball signed by the current Express volleyball team. The match will take place in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

In addition to the admission donation, individuals will have the opportunity to participate in various fundraisers throughout the evening, which will be located at several tables inside the Student Health and Activities Center gymnasium entrance. The Express volleyball team will be wearing pink jersey uniforms during the match, as well as hosting a bake sale and a silent auction to win a pink game worn Express volleyball jersey. Breast cancer awareness T-shirts, pins, bracelets, necklaces and wall-of-hope cards will also be available for purchase during the “Volley for the Cure” event. All money raised by the team will go directly to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The Express women’s volleyball program has amassed a 28-15 overall record and currently is in second place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, their conference record is 7-1.

In the span of two hours last year, the Owens volleyball program collected over $400 through various “pink-themed” activities. For more information about the “Volley for the Cure” event, call (567) 661-7974 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7974.

Owens Community College Students to Host Community Blood Drive, Oct. 28

Posted on October 20th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents can help in saving the lives of their neighbors as Owens Community College and the American Red Cross host a community Blood Drive on Wednesday, Oct. 28.

“Owens Community College is extremely pleased to continue its involvement in such a beneficial endeavor with the American Red Cross,” said Kris Flickinger, Owens Associate Professor of Surgical Technologies. “This is the College’s 35th year partnering with the American Red Cross. Our goal is to have over 100 people donate and collect at least 82 units for the local need.”

Donors will be provided snacks and drinks before and after their donation. For more information, contact the College’s School of Health Sciences at (567) 661-7206 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7206. Interested parties are encouraged to make an appointment by registering on the website at www.givelife.orp and entering the sponsor code OWENSCCPERRYSBURG or calling the above number.

Photographer, Author Dave LaBelle to Speak at Owens Community College, Oct. 21

Posted on October 20th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in gaining insight into today’s ever-changing world of photography are invited to a free lecture featuring noted photojournalist and author Dave LaBelle at Owens Community College on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

Presented by the Owens Student Photography Club, LaBelle’s lecture presentation is titled “Timing, Light, Composition and Life” and will occur at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Room 131 on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

LaBelle began his photojournalism career at the Ventura County (California) “Star-Free Press” as a weekend sports shooter and lab man while still in high school. During his 35-year career, he has worked for 20 newspapers and magazines in nine states, including the “Anchorage Times”, “San Bernardino Sun-Telegram”, “The Chanute Tribune”, “Ogden Standard-Examiner”, “The Sacramento Bee” and the “Pittsburgh Post-Gazette”, where he was assistant managing editor for photography.

LaBelle’s love for feature photography and his ability to hunt out feature ideas has helped him win numerous awards throughout his career. At 19, he was the National Press Photographers Association Region 10 Photographer of the Year, an honor he repeated the next two years. He was runner-up to W. Eugene Smith for the first Nikon World Understanding Award in 1974 and runner-up for the NPPA National Photographer of the Year Award in 1979.

Additionally, the Photographic Society of America Inc. honored LaBelle with the International Understanding Through Photography Award in 2002. The award’s judges said, “LaBelle’s background and accomplishments in photography have contributed to greater understanding among people everywhere.”

In addition to his career as a professional photojournalist, LaBelle joined the faculty at Western Kentucky University in 1986 and taught photojournalism for more than a decade. In 1989 while at Western, LaBelle published the first edition of “The Great Picture Hunt”. He is also the author of the book “Lessons in Death and Life”, which was published in 1992 and deals with the ethics of photographing grief. In 1991, the NPPA honored LaBelle with the Robin F. Garland Award for photojournalism education.

LaBelle now resides in his hometown of Oak View, Calif., where he is living with his family, writing books and teaching classes in photography.

For additional information about the free lecture, call (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Acclaimed Spanish Guitarist Maestro Soler to Speak and Perform at Owens, Oct. 22-23

Posted on October 20th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – A cosmopolitan mix of Spanish and Latin American guitar sounds that spans the eras from contemporary to jazz, swing and be-bop will fill the air at Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts as internationally acclaimed Spanish guitarist Francesc de Paula Soler takes to the stage on Friday, Oct. 23.

Presented by the Department of Communications, Humanities and Languages and the Department of Fine and Performing Arts at Owens, Soler’s free recital is taking place in conjunction with the College’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month and will occur at 7:30 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Known as “The Poet of the Guitar”, Maestro Soler is internationally recognized for his masterful guitar performances to the point that critics arguably hail him as one of the most notable names in the guitar world. Maestro Soler began to study the guitar at a young age and received the highest honors for his talents from the prestigious Conservatorio Superior de M˙sica in Barcelona, Spain. He continued his postgraduate work with AndrÈs Segovia and also received guitar orientations from Narciso Yepes.

Maestro Soler has broadcasted for several radio and television stations in both Europe and the United States and has garnered many honors and accolades for his musical talents to include recognition by the U.S. House of Representatives and membership in the Royal Order of Christopher Columbus. He has recorded the CD “Guitar Collection of Francesc de Paula Soler” and his music has been published worldwide. Attendees will be amazed by his rhapsodic abilities as he captures the soul of his audiences with a cosmopolitan musical mix of Spanish and Latin American guitar that spans the eras from contemporary to jazz, swing and be-bop.

Prior to his Friday performance, Maestro Soler will share insight into his musical background as part of a free guitar master class workshop and demonstration on Thursday, Oct. 22 at 2 p.m. Later that same day (Oct. 22), the international artist will provide a free music-supported lecture in Spanish titled “Literatura y M˙sica Hispana a TravÈs de la Historia” at 7 p.m. Both events will take place in the College’s Mainstage Theatre and are open to the public.

For additional information about the events featuring Maestro Soler, call (567) 661-7835 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7835.

Owens Presents Yet-to-be Written, Cast and Rehearsed Plays as Part of 24-Hour ‘Theatre Express’ Event, Oct. 24

Posted on October 19th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students and faculty as well as community members will have the unique opportunity to write, cast, rehearse and perform seven different plays in a 24-hour time period as the Center for Fine and Performing Arts hosts its second annual fall “Theatre Express” production, Oct. 23-24. The 24-hour theatre event will conclude on Saturday, Oct. 24, with participants premiering their seven masterful plays in the Studio Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

Area residents are invited to attend the Saturday evening performance as the “Theatre Express” production is free and open to the public. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Attendees are encouraged to arrive around 7 p.m. due to limited seating in the Studio Theatre.

“Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts is proud to once again present a unique theatrical experience where the productions are written, cast, rehearsed and performed in the span of 24 hours,” said Jeremy Meier, Owens Instructor of Fine and Performing Arts. “Attendees will be amazed by the creative talents of all those involved in the collaborative process, which is unlike any other. I encourage area residents to experience theatre of the unknown.”

The 24-hour marathon begins at 7:30 p.m. on Friday (Oct. 23) when each actor and actress arrives at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts wearing a unique costume put together from their own wardrobe. Attendees will also bring an item that reflects their character’s personality. Each performer’s photo will then be taken for playwright selection purposes.

Beginning that same evening, seven teams of writers and directors representing Owens Community College faculty will begin the arduous process of writing and staging a play based on a yet-to-be-determined theme and topic involving the assigned 3-5 actors and actresses. Caffeinated beverages will be the drink of choice as writers frantically craft five- to 10-minute plays throughout the evening hours.

Actors and actresses will meet with the directors at 9 a.m. on Saturday (Oct. 24) in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts to rehearse and memorize lines of the recently-written plays. Final rehearsals will begin at 5:30 p.m. and the actors and actresses will showcase theatrical talents during the live performance at 7:30 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre. In addition, the playwrights will see their plays staged for the first time with the audience.

For additional information about the “Theatre Express” production, contact (567) 661-2798 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2798.

Multi-talented Artists Regan Patno and Julia Snyder Opens Family Fun Sundays at Owens Community College, Oct. 25

Posted on October 19th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Community members of all ages are invited to be entertained by the creative talents of performing artists Regan Patno and Julia Snyder and their death-defying acts ranging from balletic feats to precision juggling as Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts welcomes The Tweaksters on Sunday, Oct. 25.

The performance, which will be held in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre at 3 p.m., is the first in the series of three Family Fun Sundays presented by Owens. The College is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to welcome the highly-accomplished Regan Patno and Julia Snyder and their masterful talents to the Center for Fine and Performing Arts stage,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Operations Manager for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “The Tweaksters have dazzled audiences worldwide with their unique ability to transform the mundane into the magical, which is tailor-made for both family and adult audiences alike. Attendees are in for an afternoon of laughter and unforgettable entertainment that will include everything from ping-pong air raids to glow-in-the-dark illusions.”

The Tweaksters are known worldwide for their death-defying act, which blends balletic feats, precision juggling, acrobatics and creative choreography with odd objects. Whether launching a ping-pong air raid, deftly manipulating flower pots or making percussive music with plumbing pipes, the two-person group of Regan Patno and Julia Snyder bring zany humor into their fantastic feats, which are designed to “tweak” and delight audiences of all ages.

The entertainment group’s mesmerizing and humorous antics have amazed audiences around the globe to include visits to India, France and China. In addition, The Tweaksters have made appearances on many national and international television shows such as “The Miss India” pageant in Bombay, India and “The Tonight Show”.

Tickets for The Tweaksters performance are $15 and all seats are general admission. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. ARTS (2787).

Owens to Offer Wind Technology Program in Hardin County through New Hardin County One Stop Partnership, Oct. 19 – Nov. 5

Posted on October 16th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services and Hardin County One Stop and the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance are entering into a new partnership, which will expand educational opportunities within renewable energy to area residents, by announcing the first-ever Wind Turbine Installation Training Program classes in the Hardin County region, Oct. 19 – Nov. 5.

As part of the academic curriculum expansion, Owens and the Hardin County One Stop will offer short-cycle training opportunities for unemployed and dislocated workers through the College’s Wind Turbine Installation Training Program. The initial class will occur Monday through Thursday from 2-6 p.m. at the Hardin County Business and Chamber Alliance, which is located at 225 S. Detroit St. in Kenton.

“Owens Community College Workforce and Community Services is proud to partner with the Hardin County One Stop and the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance and respond to the short-cycle workforce training needs of the region,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “Clean wind energy is emerging as a viable option from an energy and efficiency standpoint for both commercial business and residential home consumption. Hardin County is on the verge of becoming a leader within the wind energy industry and Owens is poised to assist them in their alternative energy endeavors and provide the region with a competitive edge in today’s global economy.”

Individuals attending Owens’ training program will receive instruction within the areas of installation, operation and maintenance of wind turbines for future careers as wind turbine installers. Course content includes training in wind measurement, system terminology and connection to a power grid, among other areas. Installation practices related to installation safety, basics of electricity, interconnection with the utility, siting, battery metering, and load management and energy efficiency are also highlighted.

Owens Community College Dedicates New $3.2 Million Emergency Preparedness Training and Operations Center

Posted on October 14th, 2009

Over 300 individuals attended the dedication ceremony in the Training and Operations Center’s 62-foot high bay complex.

Owens’ new 28,790 square-foot Training and Operations Center was built at the west entrance to the Center for Emergency Preparedness.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Thousands of first responders will now have the opportunity to heighten their emergency preparedness skills in the latest experiential training and educational resource center around as Owens Community College’s Center for Emergency Preparedness formally opens the doors to a new $3.2 million Training and Operations Center.

The new facility will serve as the “hub” for the Center for Emergency Preparedness and provide first responders with expanded opportunities for real-world, scenario-based training highlighted by the only indoor emergency services virtual training system in the country.

“Owens Community College’s new Training and Operations Center is a welcome addition to the Center for Emergency Preparedness and fulfills a need for a rather expansive facility to conduct year-round training within a climate controlled setting,” said Michael Cornell, Owens Director of the Center for Emergency Preparedness. “Providing first responders with the highest level in realistic training is essential to preparing them for actual emergency situations. This new Training and Operations Center reinforces the College’s commitment to meeting the emergency preparedness education and training needs throughout the region and beyond by offering experiential learning resources unlike any other facility in the country.”

Richard N. Rucker, Executive Director of Emergency Medical Services for the Ohio Department of Public Safety, served as the keynote speaker during the dedication ceremony.

Owens representatives joined community leaders, first responders and elected officials in recently celebrating the new state-of-the-art facility’s unveiling with an official ribbon cutting ceremony, which highlighted the emergency services virtual training system, and an open house.

Owens’ new 28,790 square-foot Training and Operations Center was built at the west entrance to the Center for Emergency Preparedness and is intended to provide first responders with expanded opportunities for real-world, scenario training highlighted by the only indoor emergency services virtual training system in the country. The virtual training system features a one-of-a-kind video projection scenario program, which is displayed onto separate glass walls located within four separate pods. First responders will have the opportunity to conduct a variety of structure burn scenarios within each 221 square-foot pod to include residential, commercial, processing and electrical fires, using actual water in a controlled virtual fire and smoke-filled environment. The system is designed to replicate a city scene with various buildings ranging from a single- to four-story complex. Actual virtual training scenarios include a bedroom fire, storage facility fire, washer/dryer fire and a living room fire, among many others. In addition to virtual fire training opportunities, the Center for Emergency Preparedness in the midst of developing several other scenarios to include a virtual school house active shooter training exercise.

A total of seven rooms comprise the emergency services structure, as well as a pitched roof ventilation training system area for individuals to conduct exercises using various types of equipment and techniques. Additionally, the structure will feature a Firearms Training System (FATS), which is an interactive simulated system designed to provide training in the handling and use of small and supporting firearms, as well as confronting hostile assailants. Two stairwells, a Bose sound system, infrared training monitoring cameras and a fire sprinkler training system are also housed within the four-story emergency services structure. The exterior of the indoor building can be used for high angle rescue, ground and aerial ladder drills, apparatus placement, high rise hose evolution, and rappel entry and exit training. The entire 62-foot high bay complex, which also features 10 overhead garage doors, can simulate heavy smoke conditions produced through five smoke generators.

Additional Training and Operations Center features include six classrooms, eight offices, two reception areas and locker room facilities. The facility also houses Owens Center for Emergency Preparedness staff and will serve as the Northwest Ohio regional training site for the Ohio Fire Academy.

Designed by the firm Sitzenstock Associates Inc. of Maumee, the exterior of the building features an insulated finishing system around the single-story portion of the facility, while metal encircles the Training and Operations Center’s high bay complex. Owens’ signature color red is present atop the building’s metal roof. Van Tassel Construction Co. of Ottawa Lake, Mich. served as the general contractor, while Gem Industrial Inc. of Walbridge, Brint Electric Inc. of Toledo and Accel Fire Systems Inc. of Sylvania oversaw the plumbing/mechanical, electrical and fire protection contracts, respectively. The indoor emergency services virtual training system was created by Baker Media Productions Inc. in Findlay.

The new Training and Operations Center features the only four-story emergency services virtual training system in the country.

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

Owens’ 110-acre Center for Emergency Preparedness features full-size, state-of-the-art training props/simulators, including a fire behavior lab (flashover trainer), a five-story computer controlled fire training tower, tank truck live fire simulator, live propane BLEVE simulator, urban search and rescue building collapse simulator, confined space rescue simulator, car fire simulator, extrication pad, water/dive/ice rescue training pond, rail tanker car live fire simulator, emergency vehicle operations and driving course, a Boeing 727 aircraft, a search and rescue trainer, rail cars and roof ventilating system. The facility also includes a mock city replicating a community infrastructure such as a gas station with a convenience store, a bank, an emergency room and several single family homes that feature an evidence house and a meth lab.

Owens’ virtual training system is a state-of-the-art video projection program, which enables first responders to conduct a variety of structure burn scenarios, such as residential, commercial, processing or electrical equipment fires, using actual water within a controlled virtual fire and smoke environment.

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

Owens Express Baseball Hosts Prospect Open Tryouts, Oct. 17

Posted on October 14th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate men’s baseball at Owens Community College during 2010-11 academic year are invited to a Prospect Open Tryout on Saturday, Oct. 17.

The Prospect Open Tryout begins at 9 a.m. and will be held at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll. Coached by Bob Schultz, Owens lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships.

Scholarships are still available. Owens Express players must be high school graduates and should bring their own equipment. For more information on the open tryout, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Brooke Hearn of Luna Pier, Mich. prepares to serve during the match against Lorain County Community College.	Express Volleyball Assistant Coach Alison Mugler looks on during volleyball action in her “Volley for the Cure” pink shirt.	Hundreds of individuals attend Owens’ “Volley for the Cure”, which raised over $1,900 for breast cancer awareness and research.
Pink-frosted cupcakes were among many items available for purchase to benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the American Cancer Society.	Owens’ Amanda Drew of Maumee visits with her daughter Aundrea Stewart after the match’s conclusion.	Express volleyball student-athletes Amanda Drew of Maumee (left) and Alyssa LaVoy of Pemberville await game action in their pink and white socks.