News Releases

Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus to Host Northwest Ohio’s Largest College Preview Night, March 6

Posted on February 26th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – More than 100 public and private colleges and universities from Ohio and the multi-state area will visit the Toledo area as Owens Community College serves as host to Northwest Ohio’s largest College Preview Night on Wednesday, March 6.

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 Kari Morgan, Owens Admissions Representative. “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, preparing for the ACT test, preparing to transfer from one academic institution to another, college athletics 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 about College Preview Night, call (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777.

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

Local Schools Showcase Talents at Owens Tractor Troubleshooting Contest

Posted on February 25th, 2013

Penta Career Center students (L to R) Marshall Kohl of Perrysburg (Rossford H.S.) and Tanner Engle of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.) put their knowledge of tractors to the test during the FFA District I Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics Contest at Owens.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Seven area high schools recently put their knowledge of tractors to the test during competition in the 20th annual FFA District I Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics Contest at Owens Community College.

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

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

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

The district championship went to Casey Heller of Bloomdale and Jon Shinew of Rudolph (Elmwood H.S.) accompanied by their teacher Ed Feasel.

Other students and high schools involved in the competition and their order of finish were: Hunter Haar of Elmore and Jacob Rothert of Elmore (Woodmore H.S.) accompanied by their teacher Adam Downs, Marshall Kohl of Perrysburg and Tanner Engle of Bowling Green (Penta Career Center) accompanied by their teacher Steve Schumm, Austin Arps of Wauseon and Austin Wagner of Wauseon (Wauseon H.S.) accompanied by their teacher Mick Weber, Bill Potter of Grand Rapids and Ben Thomas of Grand Rapids (Otsego H.S.) accompanied by their teacher Debbie Ayers, Pete Thieroff of Ayersville and Brian Vogel of Ayersville (Ayersville H.S.) accompanied by their teacher Don Hammersmith, and Henry Apple of Bowling Green and Thomas Foos of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.) accompanied by their teacher Stephanie Conway.

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 21 academic institutions in North America, and the only school in Ohio, to offer the John Deere Agricultural Technician program.

Owens Express Golf Opens Season at Myrtle Beach Invite, March 5-7

Posted on February 21st, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College golf will make its 2013 season debut at the MGM Sports National Invitational, March 5-7. The non-conference invitational will take place at the Barefoot Resort and Golf in Myrtle Beach, S.C. The Express will compete against St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, Elizabethtown College and Marywood University.

Owens’ home intercollegiate golf events will occur at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Owens’ golf program is guided by first-year Head Coach Josh Williams. Express Assistant Coaches are Chris Hummer and Ryan Brown. The Express golf team captured and/or finished tied for four match and invitational titles during the season, highlighted by a third-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference Championship Invitational. The program also finished second in the NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after a round of 316 at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Additionally, Owens placed fourth in the NJCAA Region XII Golf Championship.

“I am extremely pleased with the progress that this team has made since the start of the year,” said Williams. “We have a great group of student-athletes who push each other to get better every day. They want to succeed and become a championship-caliber team.”

The golf program has three players returning from last year’s team, including Luke Berger of Temperance, Mich. (Bedford H.S.), Darren Gessner of Okolona (Napoleon H.S) and Walter Dorosh of Pinckney, Mich. (Pinckney H.S.).

In 2012, Berger, a sophomore, finished tied for 32nd at the NJCAA Division II National Championships after shooting a total score of 305 (77-74-79-75) over four rounds. His postseason honors included First Team OCCAC All-Conference and NJCAA All-Region XII Team. Berger, also an OCCAC All-Academic selection, compiled a 78 scoring average. Gessner is a sophomore and earned Second Team OCCAC All-Conference honors. He compiled a 77 scoring average last year. Also a sophomore, Dorosh compiled a 79 scoring average for the Express.

First-year players to the Express golf program are Timothy Dawkins of Big Rapids, Mich. (Big Rapids H.S.), Jason Glass of Whitehouse (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Brandon Hoelzer of Fremont (Fremont Ross H.S.), Blaze Hogan of Big Rapids, Mich. (Big Rapids H.S.), Alex Roberts of Fostoria (Fostoria H.S.) and Riley Robinson of Monroe, Mich. (St. Mary Catholic Central H.S.).

Owens Community College Announces New Massage Therapy Educational Classes

Posted on February 21st, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area massage therapy and health care professionals interested in enhancing their knowledge and skills specific to alternative healing modalities are invited to participate in a series of new massage therapy educational classes at Owens Community College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center during the months March through April.

Presented by the College’s School of Health Sciences and Workforce and Community Services Adult and Continuing Education, the new massage therapy classes will occur at Owens’ Arrowhead Park Learning Center, which is located on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

“The need for highly skilled massage therapists continues to grow as more and more individuals are utilizing massage therapy to maintain and enhance healthy living,” said Michelle Aman, Owens Chair of Massage Therapy. “Massage therapy can help with a wide range of health issues and these new classes are designed to expand a professional’s educational knowledge and skills through innovative experiential learning opportunities.”

The College will feature a series of six separate classes, which will take place from March through April. The one-day and/or seminar format classes will highlight a variety of massage modalities and techniques, including aromatherapy, bamboo massage, energy modalities, pregnancy massage, and hot and cold stone therapy. The first educational class is titled “Reiki for Everyone” and will occur from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 16. Among the featured topics are history of alternative healing, the body as an energy system, the three levels of Reiki, balancing the energy system and how a person’s outlook in life affects neurology.

Additional classes include “Pregnancy Massage” from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on March 23, “Introduction to Aromatherapy” from 7:30-9 p.m. on Apr. 10, “Aromatherapy in the Salon, Spa and Clinical Setting” from 7:30-9 p.m. on Apr. 17, “Hot Stone Massage” from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Apr. 20 and “Bamboo Massage” from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Apr. 27 and from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Apr. 28.

For more information, or to register for a massage therapy class, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357 or visit www.owensworks.com

Owens Community College Students Showcase Catering Talents Through Snack-Themed Food Selections

Posted on February 21st, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents recently were invited to experience an array of delectable delights ranging from handmade pretzel bites to Doritos encrusted chicken nuggets at the Owens Community College Terrace View Café as students within the Culinary Arts Program’s Catering and Banquet Operations class paid homage to some of America’s favorite snack foods in honor of National Snack Food Month.

The Catering and Banquet Operations class opened the College’s student-run Terrace View Café to the public as attendees enjoyed the opportunity to partake in handmade pretzel bites, Doritos encrusted chicken nuggets, turkey burger sliders on handmade sesame buns, puppy chow, candied pecans, made-to-order chocolate crepes, grapefruit sorbet, a Twinkies-inspired loaf and batter fried mushrooms, green beans, onions, cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese. Owens’ restaurant is coordinated by the Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Department.

Owens students showcasing their talents were Jeremy England of Bowling Green, Jerilyn St. Clair of Swanton, Maria Lay of Toledo, Aaron Kato of Oak Harbor, Alex Smith of Wauseon, Julie Valentine of Toledo, Jordyn Rife of Toledo and Amber Simmet of Delphos. The Catering and Banquet Operations class is taught by Owens Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Assistant Professor Gretchen Fayerweather.

The Catering and Banquet Operations class is designed to provide students with experiential learning related to the planning, preparation, serving and evaluation of catered events, which meet the needs of clients and guests. Classroom instruction includes menu design and pricing, catering equipment, marketing and staffing for such catered events as themed parties, weddings, private clubs, hotels and other special meeting events. Students also explore techniques that incorporate banquet and catering operations into existing food service establishments.

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.

Owens’ Department of Food, Nutrition and Hospitality also offers a three-semester Baking and Pastry Certificate Program for those individuals interested in becoming a professional baker or pastry chef.

Owens Findlay-area Campus to Host Greater Hancock County College Night, March 4

Posted on February 20th, 2013

FINDLAY, Ohio – 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 serves as host to Greater Hancock County College Night on Monday, March 4. 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 Stefanie Orians, Owens Admissions Representative on the Findlay-area Campus and Greater Hancock County College Night event coordinator. “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.

For more information on Greater Hancock County College Night, contact the Owens Findlay-area Campus at (567) 429-3656 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3656.

Owens Concert Band to Host Winter Pops Benefit Concert, March 3

Posted on February 19th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to listen to an array of musical selections ranging from Broadway Show songs to patriotic-themed numbers and support the outreach efforts of Cherry Street Mission Ministries as the Owens Community College Concert Band presents a Winter Pops Benefit Concert on Sunday, March 3.

The concert will begin 1:30 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. Owens and Cherry Street Mission Ministries will be accepting monetary donations as part of the event.

Musical selections presented by the Owens Concert Band, which is comprised of Owens students and employees and community members, will include “Dances Americanesque”, “Amparito Roca”, “William Tell Overature”, “Xylophonia” and “The Wizard of Oz Meets The Wiz”, among others.

Additionally, Owens Fine and Performing Arts Co-Interim Chair Michael Sander will be sharing his musical talents as part of a xylophone solo performance during the concert. Owens Fine and Performing Arts Co-Interim Chair Kevin Schroeder will also be featured during a joint artistic painting/musical selection titled “The Music of Disneyland”. Schroeder will showcase his artistic talents on stage by painting a Walt Disney-themed mural to the accompaniment of the Owens Concert Band.

Cherry Street Mission Ministries was founded in 1947 with the overall goal of providing help to those in need in the form of food and shelter. In addition to meeting people’s critical basic needs, the organization focuses on empowering people to break the bonds of homelessness and poverty and build new lives for themselves.

For more information about the Winter Pops Benefit Concert, contact the College’s Fine and Performing Arts Department at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Community College to Host FFA District I Tractor Troubleshooting Competition, Feb. 22

Posted on February 19th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area high school students will put their knowledge of tractors to the test as they compete in the 20th annual FFA District I Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics Contest at Owens Community College on Friday, Feb. 22.

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 various testing 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, which scored the highest on the written examination within the region were invited to participate in hands-on portion of the competition. Participants include Ayersville High School, Bowling Green High School, Delta High School, Elmwood High School, Fairview High School, Four County Career Center, Genoa High School, Liberty Center High School, Otsego High School, Patrick Henry High School, Penta Career Center and Woodmore High School.

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 Community College Welcomes Nationally-Known Author and Diversity Advocate Zach Wahls, Feb. 28

Posted on February 14th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to hear the inspirational words of nationally-known author and diversity advocate Zach Wahls as he takes attendees on a personal journey into his life growing up with two same-sex parents during free lecture presentations titled “What Makes a Family” at Owens Community College’s Findlay-area and Toledo-area campuses on Thursday, Feb. 28.

The first lecture presentation will begin at 11 a.m. in the Education Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. A second presentation by Wahls will occur at 2 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay, while the Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to both events is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

In addition to sharing his own personal experience with having two same-sex parents, Wahls will explore the nature of family and what it means for the millennial generation.

On Jan. 31, 2011, Wahls addressed the Iowa House Judiciary Committee in a public hearing regarding a proposed constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage in Iowa. The then 19-year-old son of a same-sex couple, Wahls proudly proclaimed “the sexual orientation of my parents has had zero effect on the content of my character.” Hours later, his speech was posted on YouTube, where it went viral, quickly receiving more than two million views. By the end of the week, everyone knew his name and wanted to hear from the boy with two moms. The sixth-generation Iowan was invited for appearances on MSNBC, CNN and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show”.

Energized by his new emergence as a national advocate for marriage equality, Wahls has continued speaking and recently released the book “My Two Moms”, which details his life growing up with two same-sex parents. The book also provides insight into lessons of love, strength and what makes a family.

For additional information about the lecture, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583, or (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens’ Community Terrace View Café Announces Spring Semester Menu, Feb. 19 – Apr. 25

Posted on February 14th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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 Café.

The student-run Terrace View Café 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 Café 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. and take-out meals will take place from 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. The cost per lunch is $9 and reservations are required.

The Terrace View Café will be available to guests starting Tuesday, Feb. 19 with smoke roasted pork loin with apple cider sauce as the entrée. Regional food discoveries will be the featured selection on Tuesdays, while Thursday’s culinary focus is international influences.

Upcoming Spring Semester dates and entrée listings include March 19 (baked tilapia with Chesapeake Bay baste), March 21 (gombas szelet – mushroom lamb chops), March 26 (chicken creole with pan steamed rice and fried okra), March 28 (Mongolian barbeque), Apr. 9 (Kentucky barbeque pork loin), Apr. 11 (to-be-announced Greek cuisine), Apr. 16 (made-to-order omelets), Apr. 18 (beef bulgogi in red leaf lettuce wrap), Apr. 23 (chicken Monterey with green chili potatoes) and Apr. 25 (tapas). Additionally, attendees have the opportunity to choose either a lacto-ovo vegetarian entrée or a Terrace chicken burger with the planned side dishes if desired. A complete listing of dishes is available at www.owens.edu/terrace. Bakery items also will be available for purchase during the luncheons.

Owens Culinary Arts Program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the 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.

Owens’ Department of Food, Nutrition and Hospitality also offers a Baking and Pastry Certificate Program for those individuals interested in becoming a professional baker or pastry chef.

Reservations must be made by 3 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to the Tuesday luncheon and 3 p.m. on Thursday prior to the Thursday luncheon. For additional information about Owens’ Terrace View Café fall 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 Presents Free ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ Film Screening and Discussion, Feb. 19

Posted on February 13th, 2013

FINDLAY, Ohio – Area residents are invited to explore diversity and its societal impact in the 1930s as Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus’ Office of Student Activities and Honors Program presents a free screening and discussion of the film “To Kill a Mockingbird” on Tuesday, Feb. 19.

The film, which is being presented in conjunction with the College’s celebration of Black History Month, will be shown at 11 a.m. in the College’s Education 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.

Based on Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book, “To Kill a Mockingbird” provides insight into the life of Atticus Finch, who serves as a lawyer in a racially-divided Alabama town in the 1930s. Racial tension escalates as Finch chooses to defend Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman. The story is told through the eyes of Finch’s six-year-old daughter Scout and her older brother Jem. “To Kill a Mockingbird” garnered international acclaim highlighted by three Oscar Awards in 1963. The film was directed by Robert Mulligan.

Immediately following the film, Owens Assistant Professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences Dr. Marian Moore and Interim Chair of English Ellen Sorg will offer insight into the historical and ethical significance of “To Kill a Mockingbird” as part of an open discussion.

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

Owens Community College Unveils Ohio’s First Magnetic Resonance Associate Degree Program

Posted on February 13th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents interested in a career as a magnetic resonance technologist now have the opportunity to pursue their higher educational degree at Owens Community College as the academic institution’s School of Health Sciences unveils a new Magnetic Resonance Associate Degree Program.

Beginning with Summer Semester 2013, the new academic program is being offered on the Toledo-area Campus. The two-year associate degree program recently received formal approval by the Ohio Board of Regents.

“Owens Community College is excited to expand our academic curriculum and offer the state’s first Magnetic Resonance Associate Degree Program,” said Catherine Ford, Owens Chair of Medical Imaging Technologies. “The need for highly skilled and certified magnetic resonance technologists is growing nationwide. The College’s Department of Medical Imaging Technologies is committed to meeting the nation’s health care demands by providing educational opportunities to future magnetic resonance technologists through this new academic program.”

Owens’ associate degree in Magnetic Resonance will require approximately 73 credit hours of coursework, which includes magnetic resonance imaging patient care and safety, medical ethics, medical informatics, medical resonance instrumentation, pharmacology for medical resonance technologists and medical sociology, among other academic curriculum.

The new associate degree is designed to prepare students for employment as magnetic resonance technologists in such health-specific settings as hospitals, clinics and private offices. During the program, students will study patient care, human anatomy, physiology, pathology, radiopharmacology, imaging procedures, medical resonance physics, ethics and medical terminology, as well as utilize leading-edge academic resources for experiential learning, including state-of-the-art medical resonance imaging simulator technology.

Additionally, the selective admissions program requires over 1,200 hours of clinical experience in partnership with magnetic resonance departments throughout the region. Following academic curriculum completion, students are eligible to sit for the national certification examination to become a certified magnetic resonance technologist administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

For additional information about Owens’ Magnetic Resonance Associate Degree Program, call (567) 661-7261 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7261.

Owens Community College to Host Green Industry Career and Job Fair, Feb. 20

Posted on February 12th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents and students with career aspirations in a green industry-related field are invited to learn about and explore various seasonal employment opportunities available throughout the region as Owens Community College serves as host to a Green Industry Career and Job Fair on Wednesday, Feb. 20.

The Green Industry Career and Job Fair will take place from 3-4:30 p.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-127 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 green industry representatives and ask them questions about their professions or how to go about choosing a career path in the green industry field. In addition, attendees will be able to fill out applications for various seasonal 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.

Approximately 20 area employers within such areas as landscape, golf course and small scale farm will be in attendance. Area employers will include Envirocare Lawn and Landscape, Schedel Arboretum and Gardens, Premier Gardening Services, Toledo Country Club and Smith Road Farm, 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 Department of Science specific to the natural sciences areas of Landscape and Turfgrass Management, Golf Course/Athletic Field Management and Urban Agriculture and Sustainability.

For more information about the Green Industry Career and Job Fair, call (567) 661-7623 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7623.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Features Exhibit by Tinola Mayfield-Guerrero, Feb. 14 – March 21

Posted on February 8th, 2013

Artwork on display at the Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery as part of the “Nearly There” exhibition includes the mixed media titled “Still Waiting”.

FINDLAY, Ohio – Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery continues its art exhibition season with the works of regional artist Tinola Mayfield-Guerrero. The exhibit, titled “Nearly There”, will showcase Mayfield-Guerrero’s unique process of bringing together feminist theory, metaphysics and art through mixed media, Feb. 14 – March 21.

In addition to the exhibit, the College will also host a reception and gallery talk with Mayfield-Guerrero on Tuesday, Feb. 19 from 6-8 p.m. The reception, which is free and open to the public, will take place in the Findlay-area Campus Library located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Community College is proud to showcase the work of an artist who stretches the viewer’s imagination and understanding of what art means,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “Tinola Mayfield-Guerrero’s use of fashion dolls against natural materials and vistas is jarring and thought-provoking and will leave exhibit attendees in a state of reflection about life in relation to love, birth, death, beauty, ugliness, horror, intimacy, loneliness, connection, substance and impermanence.”

Mayfield-Guerrero serves as an Instructor of Communications, Humanities and Languages at Owens. Her professional and community involvement includes previously holding board-level membership with the Catharine S. Eberly Center for Women in Toledo and serving as Adjunct Advisory Committee Chair at Monroe County Community College. Mayfield-Guerrero also has volunteered as an inner city tutor in English, math, history and social studies for the YMCA.

The Toledo resident’s artwork has appeared in venues throughout New York and Ohio, including as part of the Catharine S. Eberly Center for Women’s “No One You Know: An Art Show of Reunification” exhibition. Mayfield-Guerrero, also a poet, received a master’s degree in philosophy and sociology, as well as a bachelor’s degree in women’s and gender studies all from the University of Toledo.

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 Findlay-area Campus to Host Valentine’s Day Card Community Outreach Event, Feb. 13

Posted on February 7th, 2013

FINDLAY, Ohio – Area residents are invited to put their creative card-making skills to test, as well as help in spreading a little cheer to local community members at Findlay’s Birchaven Village, as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus serves as host to a free Valentine’s Day Card Community Outreach Event on Wednesday, Feb. 13.

Coordinated by the College’s Student Activities Office, the event will take place from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Education Center Atrium on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus is encouraging community members to help in lifting the spirits of others through volunteerism,” said Jamey Katzner, Owens Manager of Career Services and Student Activities. “A simple act such as providing a positive message for another person can make a significant impact. Owens Community College is extremely thankful to Birchaven Village for partnering on this service learning opportunity.”

During the event, participants will have the opportunity to construct and decorate Valentine’s Day cards for local community members at Birchaven Village. Additionally, attendees will be encouraged to provide an inspirational message within each card.

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

Fall Pinning Ceremony Honors Registered and Practical Nursing Students at Owens

Posted on February 7th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Over 100 Owens Community College students were recently bestowed honorary pins by the Nursing Department for their academic achievements specific to registered nursing and practical nursing during a ceremony. The pinning ceremony is part of a traditional nursing practice, which honors students prior to beginning their careers within the health care community.

The nurse pinning ceremony originated in the 1860s at St. Thomas Hospital’s Nightingale School of Nursing in London, England. Having been recently awarded The Red Cross of St. George for her selfless service to the injured and dying in the Crimean War, Florence Nightingale chose to extend the honor she received to her most outstanding graduate nurses by awarding each of them a medal of excellence. The practice of awarding nurses a badge was adopted soon after, and the first pin was awarded to the Class of 1880 at the Bellevue Hospital School of Nursing in New York City.

Registered nurse pinning recipients are Matthew Babaki of Westlake, Gabrielle Barbara of Toledo, Jennifer Bare of Findlay, Aaron Baxter of Findlay, Colleen Belt of Waterville, Amy Bethel of Toledo, Brandy Boaston of Toledo, Heidi Bouillon of New Reigel, Judith Boyle of Toledo, Audrey Bradford of Cygnet, Antanai Brown of Toledo, Heather Campbell of Toledo, Sarah Chambers of Maumee, Debra Conkle of McComb, Kimberly Cousino of Toledo, Sara Coy of Oregon, April Davis of Toledo, Cassandra Dietrich of Toledo, Melissa Duly of Curtice, Brenda Dunning of Wauseon, Jeffrey Easterwood of Toledo, Laura Elliott of Toledo, Patricia Ferguson of Rossford, Wendy Ferris of Oregon, Lycrecia Fitch of Toledo, Heidi Folger of Toledo, Laura Frontz of Tiffin, Sarah Gedert of Perrysburg, Danielle Glover of Toledo, Rebecca Gluza of Toledo, Darlene Grey of Toledo, Jacob Grime of Archbold, Jennifer Haase of Findlay, Aaron Halstead of Toledo, Careigh Hand of Maumee, Melissa Hartenburg of Perrysburg, Kevin Hendricks of Delta, Jennifer Hill of Risingsun, Darlasia Hudspeth of Toledo, Danielle Inbody of Pandora, Alexis Johnson of Fremont, Cheryl Johnson of Toledo, Sarah Johnson of Holland and Andrea Lofay of Tiffin.

Registered nursing students also receiving pinning honors include Heather Luttke of Toledo, Shelby Majors of Toledo, Tiffany Mattys of Toledo, Terrie McDougle of Gilboa, Chelsey McMillan of Monroe, Mich., Grezen Micua of Toledo, M. Richard Middleton of Northwood, Elizabeth Montgomery of Jenera, Adam Montz of Carey, Nicholas Montz of Tiffin, Kelly Morrow of Maumee, Brianne Newcomer of Sycamore, Heather Nino of Genoa, Ann Palmer of Maumee, Megan Passet of Findlay, Holly Patton of Carey, Jennifer Phillips of Walbridge, Courtney Price of Findlay, Emily Rehklau of Toledo, Christine Roudebush of Perrysburg, Erica Russell of Toledo, Elizabeth Sanderson of Toledo, Connie Sayler of Blissfield, Mich., Cindy Schirack of Northwood, Andria Seifert of Toledo, Kathryn Serna of Swanton, Tonya Shank of Perrysburg, Katie Shrewsbury of Maumee, Shannon Smith of Toledo, Kim Spitnale of Toledo, Antoinette Stevens of Toledo, Candas Switzer of Tiffin, Renee Szablewski of Tiffin, Cheri Taulker of Fostoria, Jacqueline Trubisky of Painesville, Lanita Vance of Toledo, Sara Verhoff of Ottawa, Rachel Washer of Maumee, Lori Watson of Northwood, Sarah Webb of Toledo, Michael Wheeler of Holland, Sarah White of Findlay, Kayli Wiley of Maumee, Meshell Wilson of Perrysburg, Leigh Wright of Deshler and Heather Zimmerman of Toledo.

Practical nursing students receiving their honorary pins are Monica Aldrich of Fostoria, Ashley Cole of Findlay, Tammy Douglas of Findlay, David Foust of Findlay, Kelsey Helfer of Findlay, Dusti Herz of Van Buren, Amy Hoffman of Napoleon, Traci Hotelling of Findlay, Lindsey Iler of Bowling Green, Ashley Nelson of Findlay, Claire Vroman of Findlay, Rhonda Wells of Findlay and Kari Yaney of Swanton.

The College’s registered nursing program was established in 1969 as one of first associate degree programs of its kind in Northwest Ohio. The academic program was later expanded to the Findlay-area Campus in 1991.

Owens’ registered nursing program requires 73 credit hours of coursework, which includes courses in nutrition, nursing concepts, pharmacology, psychology, nursing skills, adult health issues, anatomy and physiology, obstetrics, pediatrics and geriatrics, as well as other program course requirements. Following graduation, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure examination to become a registered nurse.

The registered nursing program is designed to prepare graduates for nursing positions in a variety of health care settings. Among the various locations are acute care agencies, physician offices, long-term care agencies and outpatient ambulatory areas. The program combines studies at Owens with planned and guided clinical experience in client care for health care facilities and community agencies.

Owens’ practical nursing certificate is offered on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses and requires 43 credit hours of coursework, which includes courses in basic nutrition, nursing trends, pharmacology, general psychology, nursing care of adults, and human anatomy and physiology, as well as other course requirements. Following graduation, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN licensure examination to become a licensed practical nurse.

The practical nursing certificate is designed to prepare graduates for nursing positions in a variety of health care settings. Among the various locations are acute care agencies, physician offices, long-term care agencies, behavioral health facilities, hospice and rehabilitation centers. The program combines studies at Owens with planned and guided clinical experience in client care for health care facilities and community agencies.

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

Posted on February 6th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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.

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 2012 Fall Semester are:

Muthanna Alhayani of Toledo (business management technology)

Dana Almester of Rossford (photography)

Steven Ambrose of Toledo (business management technology)

Tyler Baer of Portage (emergency medical management)

Debra Baker of Perrysburg (pre-nursing)

Sarah Barker of Perrysburg (biology)

Abigail Bellas of Temperance, Mich. (multi-age education)

Jacquelyn Boggs of Newport, Mich. (registered nursing)

Daniel Boss of Findlay (accounting technology)

Amanda Boyer of Millbury (pre-nursing)

Steven Branam of Maumee (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Christopher Brickner of Findlay (technical studies)

Allison Brinkman of Perrysburg (associate of arts, general concentration)

Averie Brown-Culbertson of Toledo (journalism)

Jakob Buehler of Sylvania (adolescence education)

Kala Butler of Bowling Green (pre-nursing)

Lucille Carter of Toledo (business management technology)

Lucas Clauson of Toledo (culinary arts)

Gina Conner of Toledo (criminal justice technology)

Christopher Cook of Toledo (automotive technology)

Sarah Cook of Bloomdale (associate of arts, general concentration)

Marty Coombs of Toledo (automation electronics)

Itiya Felix Miss of Toledo (pre-licensed practical nursing to registered nursing)

Jennifer Garcia of Oregon (pre-surgical)

Andrew Gerwin of Gibsonburg (information systems technology)

Danielle Glover of Toledo (registered nursing)

Renee Grabarczyk-Schafer of Sylvania (associate of arts, general concentration)

Berkeley Haney of Monclova (undecided)

Nathan Hartman of Toledo (commercial art technology)

Keevan Hazel of Toledo (adolescence education)

Lamara Heiden of Holland (associate of arts, general concentration)

Donald Heiden of Holland (technical studies)

Valerie Herron of Toledo (accounting technology)

Melanie Iacoangeli of Monroe, Mich. (pre-business administration)

Joshua Jones of Toledo (pre-professional engineering)

Destany Jones of Toledo (pre-licensed practical nursing to registered nursing)

Christie Jones of Sylvania (business management technology)

Shawn Kebker of Genoa (world languages)

Rebecca Kory of Sylvania (adolescence education)

Ashley Kravetsky of Perrysburg (biology)

Louis Krolak of Toledo (emergency medical management)

Agnieszka Kupiec of Holland (diagnostic medical sonography)

Tom Leahey of Swanton (biomedical electronics)

Bobby Linder Sr. of Petersburg, Mich. (advanced integrated systems technology)

Shayna Lindley of Perrysburg (pre-nursing)

Zachary Lopez of Williston (architectural engineering technology)

Tammie Mallory of Toledo (pre-nursing)

Ladreena May of Toledo (pre-licensed practical nursing to registered nursing)

James McGaha Jr. of Genoa (pre-nursing)

Christina Mock of Northwood (commercial art technology)

Christina Montez of Toledo (social work)

Amy Morford of Toledo (pre-culinary arts)

Tracy Mossing of Sylvania (pre-nursing)

Charles Pengov of Toledo (journalism)

Parth Pitroda of Sylvania (commercial photography technology)

Cyrus Porter of Delta (automotive technology)

Hannah Posadny of Maumee (multi-age education)

Elizabeth Robertson of Sylvania (operations management)

Jordan Robertson of Sylvania (electrical/electronics engineering technology)

Danielle Schick of Ottawa Lake, Mich. (biology)

Peggy Shane of Perrysburg (pre-licensed practical nursing to registered nursing)

Amanda Sinay of Oregon (pre-business administration)

Christopher Skibinski of Toledo (CAD technology)

Meghan Slates of Sylvania (auto body repair)

Jason Sniegowski of Toledo (adolescence education)

Shana Sparks of Toledo (pre-medical imaging)

Alex Steinline of Perrysburg (associate of science, general concentration)

Kimberly Stevens of Wauseon (health information technology)

Robert St. John of Monclova (pre-medical imaging)

Amanda Storm of Metamora (pre-nursing)

Michael Suhan of Perrysburg (fire science technology)

Thomas Tiggs of Toledo (fire science technology)

Andre Tiggs of Toledo (fire science technology)

Carri Tuvell of Toledo (medical office support)

Danielle Urbaniak of Perrysburg (pre-pharmacy)

Maggie VanMeter of Clyde (pre-medical imaging)

Mark Waggoner of Perrysburg (English literature)

Brianna Westrick of Toledo (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Jordan Windnagle of Maumee (associate of arts, general concentration)

Krissada Wongsa of Perrysburg (automotive technology)

Firas Yassin of Toledo (pre-surgical)

Sarah Zimmerman of Toledo (pre-business administration)

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 6th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has named H. Richard Rowe and Diana H. (Dee) Talmage 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.

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

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

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

In addition to Rowe and Talmage, Owens Board of Trustees members include Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg, Edwin J. Nagle of Toledo, William E. Takacs of Toledo and Thomas R. Uhler of Rossford.
Owens Community College is an accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. With a commitment to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability, the College serves the diverse academic needs of credit and non-credit students on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as at the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Students Receive Board of Trustees Excellence Awards

Posted on February 6th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College student John Breno of Maumee and Global Connections Student Club and Owens Photography Student Club have been chosen by the Board of Trustees Student Life Committee to receive student excellence awards for their commitment to academics, community engagement, student leadership and involvement in student life.

Breno received the Certificate of Recognition for Extraordinary Volunteerism, the Global Connections Student Club received the Certificated of Recognition for Exceptional Student Leadership and Student Life Involvement and the Owens Photography Student Club received the Certificate of Recognition for Extraordinary Community Engagement and Volunteerism. Award recipients were recognized for their achievements at the College’s recent Board of Trustees meeting.

Breno was nominated by Frances O’Connor for his leadership and volunteerism in providing students with access to technology in support of student learning. The networking and information systems support major was instrumental in gathering fellow students for the task of refurbishing desktop computers to benefit eligible students and their pursuit of higher education. The initiative is titled Otech and focused on conserving resources through experiential learning and community resources.

Owens’ Elaine Shafer nominated the Global Connections Student Club for their leadership and advocacy in celebrating the College’s international students and engaging students in cultural exchange. The student organization was responsible for planning and organizing the College’s International Celebration event, which introduced students and area residents to international cultures, cuisine, music and dance. Student members include Liyaquat Qurban-ali of Ghazni, Afghanistan (pre-nursing), Mudhafar Alayani of Amman, Jordan (business administration), Razia Sultana of Gilgit, Pakistan (accounting technology) and Fibriani Widyaningrum of Sidoajo, Indonesia (business management).

The Owens Photography Student Club was nominated by Ruth Foote for their volunteerism and engagement with the community through the Help Portrait initiative. Help Portrait is a global movement of volunteer photographers who provide free professional portrait sessions in socio-economically challenged areas to improve the quality of life for those less fortunate. The Owens Photography Student Club’s outreach efforts included planning, sponsoring and operating a photo studio at the East Toledo Family Center in honor of Mother’s Day. During the event, Owens students provided service to 142 family groups through Help Portrait. Owens Photography Student Club members are Teri Birtwhistle of Toledo (commercial photography technology), Aaron Gonya of Arcadia (commercial photography technology), Cheri Guthrie of Waterville (commercial photography technology) and Matt Hamilton of Toledo (commercial photography technology).

The Board of Trustees Student Life Committee was chartered in 2011 to recognize and celebrate students who demonstrate the College’s core values of service, learning, innovation, collaboration and excellence through their achievements in academics, community engagement or involvement in student leadership and student life.

Any individual may nominate an Owens student or a group of students who demonstrate achievements specific to the award categories of Exemplary Academic Achievement, Extraordinary Community Engagement or Volunteerism and Exceptional Student Leadership or Student Life Involvement. The awards are presented regularly to student recipients during Board of Trustees meetings.

The College’s Board of Trustees is comprised of six community leaders from Lucas, Wood, Hancock and Sandusky counties who are appointed by the Governor of Ohio. Owens Board of Trustees members include Diana H. (Dee) Talmage of Ottawa Hills, H. Richard Rowe of Findlay, Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg, Edwin J. Nagle of Toledo, William E. Takacs of Toledo and Thomas R. Uhler of Rossford.

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

Posted on February 5th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Over 110 area children recently left Owens Community College with pearly white teeth and bright smiling faces courtesy of the Dental Hygiene program as the academic institution participated in the nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day.

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

“It’s a lot of fun to help children who are in need of help,” stated Owens dental hygiene student Nicole Buchanan of Genoa, who intends on pursuing a career as a dental hygienist after graduating from Owens and obtaining her bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene. “Give Kids A Smile Day provides a great opportunity for Owens students like myself share what we have learned and to give back.”

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.

“I really appreciate all the volunteers who take the time to help others on this day,” said Trisha Truman of Curtice, whose three children attended Give Kids A Smile Day. “My family has attended Give Kids A Smile Day for the past several years. We are extremely thankful to everyone who make this such a great event.”

For five-year-old Lea Wauford of Northwood, the dental experience at Owens resulted in somewhat expected and unexpected gifts.

“I lost my first tooth today,” explained an excited Wauford. “I’m going to put it under my pillow for the tooth fairy. They gave me a pink princess toothbrush. Pink is my favorite color.”

Dental services available for free throughout the event included dental education and screening, X-rays, oral prophylaxis (cleanings), limited restorations and dental sealants. In addition, Owens students from the health program provided educational presentations for parents and children. Also assisting with the event were School of Health Sciences students within the academic areas of dental assisting, massage therapy technology and medical imaging technology.

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

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Owens Community College to Host ‘Digitally Documenting Your Art’ Photography Workshop, Feb. 2

Posted on January 28th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents interested in gaining insight into the importance of professional photographs in showcasing artwork for exhibitions and portfolios are invited to attend a daylong workshop titled “Digitally Documenting Your Art: Your SMART Phone Isn’t Really Smart Enough” at Owens Community College on Saturday, Feb. 2.

Presented by Owens, Lourdes University and the Toledo Federation of Art Societies, the event will take place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus. The event is open to the public.

The workshop will commence at 10 a.m. with a presentation by Owens Adjunct Instructor of Fine and Performing Arts Margaret Lockwood-Lass about the benefits of having quality digital photographs of artwork in building a website or blog, creating a professional portfolio and securing exhibitions. Topics will also include taking digital photographs of artwork without a lot of expensive equipment and when artwork requires a professional photographer, among others. The presentation will take place in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre.

Beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Photography Studio Room 233, workshop attendees can have professional-quality photographs taken of their artwork by students within the Owens Photo Club. Separate stations will be set up to photograph different types of artwork such as 2-D (paintings, prints and textiles), tabletop-sized 3-D artwork, 3-D artwork that must be positioned on the floor, reflective 3-D artwork (glass and metal) and small artwork (jewelry). Each individual will receive digital files on a CD or as an electronic transmission of their artwork.

The cost for the first artistic piece is $25 and each subsequent item will cost $20 or less with the same lighting arrangement. All proceeds will benefit the Owens Photo Club student organization to offset costs to attend professional photography conferences.

The Owens Photo Club was founded with the overall mission of providing personal and professional enrichment and educational opportunities for all Owens students, including students majoring in the College’s commercial photography technology and photography academic programs.

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

Owens Community College Students to Host Chili Cook-Off Fundraising Event, Feb. 5

Posted on January 24th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to put their taste buds to the test as Owens Community College students serve as host to a Chili Cook-Off fundraising event on Tuesday, Feb. 5.

The Chili Cook-Off will occur from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Attendees will receive a tasting kit to sample the assortment of chili selections. The Chili Cook-Off is open to the campus community as well as the general public. The College’s Office of Student Activities is encouraging individuals to donate $3 per person, which will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Attendees will have the opportunity to sample an assortment of chili from various Owens teams and then vote for their favorite edible delight. The team who receives the most votes will become the Chili Cook-Off people’s choice winner and the chili will be sold at the College’s Fireside Grill as part of a collaborative effort between the Office of Student Activities and AVI Foodsystems.

Proceeds raised from the Chili Cook-Off will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which is committed to the overall mission of advancing cures, and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment.

For more information about the event, call (567) 661-2569 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2569.

Owens Community College to Host Spring Charity Week Community Outreach Events, Jan. 29-31

Posted on January 22nd, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to help make a difference in lives of others by participating in a series of community outreach events as part of Owens Community College’s Spring Charity Week, Jan. 29-31.

Coordinated by the College’s Student Activities Office, the various activities will occur daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again offer a series of outreach activities in which students and area residents can impact the lives of others through volunteer service,” said John Byers, Owens Director of Student Involvement. “Participants can engage in several projects, ranging from assembling smile bags to creating Valentine’s Day cards, during Charity Week. I encourage individuals to help in lifting the spirits of another person through Owens’ volunteer outreach program.”

Each day, participants will have the opportunity to engage in several hands-on activities, which will include constructing and decorating Valentine’s Day cards for area senior citizens. Additionally, attendees will be encouraged to provide an inspirational message within each card. Charity Week volunteers can also assist in assembling “smile bags” filled with such items as coloring books, crayons, a photo frame magnet craft kit, notepads and stuffed animals for children involved with the Dental Center of Northwest Ohio. The final Charity Week project will provide individuals with the chance to create fleece rope dog toys for local animal shelters.

All completed projects from Charity Week will be delivered to the appropriate community groups and organizations throughout the Spring Semester. For more information about the upcoming Charity Week community outreach activities, call (567) 661-2569 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2569.

Owens Community College Presents Free ‘Incognito’ Theatrical Performances on Diversity, Jan. 30-31

Posted on January 18th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in gaining insight into such issues as race, identity, diversity and stereotypes are invited to Owens Community College as nationally-recognized writer/actor Michael Fosberg presents the theatrical performance “Incognito” on the academic institution’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Jan. 30-31.

Fosberg’s performance is being presented in conjunction with the College’s celebration of Black History Month. The theatrical presentation and open discussion will begin at 2 p.m. on Wednesday (Jan. 30) in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. A second performance by Fosberg will occur at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday (Jan. 31) in the Education Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay. Admission to both events is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

During the performance, Fosberg will inhabit over a dozen characters as he masterfully tells the true story of finding his biological father. Raised in a working-class white family, Fosberg discovers at age 32 that his father is actually African-American. Fosberg’s performance is intended to challenge audiences to carefully examine their own assumptions about others. Each performance will be followed by an open discussion led by Fosberg.

Fosberg began to study acting, directing and writing at the University of Minnesota. While attending college, he founded the Small Change Original Theater, producing, writing, directing and conducting workshops for children throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota.

A move to Los Angeles in the late 1980s had him appearing in television and film, while continuing his work with young students as the Director of Education for the Living Library Theatre, a Stage Combat Instructor at the Buckley School and a Teacher/Director for the South Coast Repertory’s Young Actor’s Conservatory Program. Fosberg also worked as a guest artist at the Sundance Institute’s Summer Residency Program, teaching educators how to utilize drama in the classrooms.

Since 2000, Fosberg has been touring his autobiographical solo-show “Incognito”. His one-person theatrical production has made appearances at colleges and universities, high schools, performing arts centers, festivals and theaters across the country, including at the California African American Museum in Los Angeles, the Missouri Repertory Theatre in Kansas City and Illinois Theatre Center in Park Forest, Ill.

For additional information about the performance, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583, or (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Higher Learning Commission Reaffirms Owens Community College Accreditation Through 2020

Posted on January 18th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has received notification from the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association that the academic institution’s accreditation has been reaffirmed through 2020. Owens has been accredited continuously through the Higher Learning Commission since 1976.

“I am extremely proud of our campus community for their hard work and dedication in achieving continued accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission,” said Dr. Mike Bower, President of Owens Community College. “This honor acknowledges and affirms our longstanding educational commitment to serving our students and the surrounding communities through excellence, innovation and collaboration.”

Owens Community College maintains its accreditation status through the Academic Quality Improvement Program, which infuses the principles and benefits of continuous improvement into the culture of colleges and universities by providing an alternative process through which an already-accredited institution can maintain its accreditation. An institution in the Academic Quality Improvement Program demonstrates how it meets accreditation standards and expectations through a sequence of events which align with the ongoing activities of an institution striving for continuous quality improvement to enhance student success.

During the seven-year period, Owens engaged in a variety of Academic Quality Improvement Program processes, which included Strategy Forums, Annual Updates, Systems Portfolio Appraisals and visits to review U.S. Department of Education compliance issues. Additionally, an Academic Quality Improvement Program Review Panel examines the collective history of the institution’s interaction with the Higher Learning Commission to determine whether this evidence demonstrates compliance with the Criteria for Accreditation and Core Components. The Institutional Actions Council then takes action on the Review Panel’s recommendation regarding reaffirmation and continuing Academic Quality Improvement Program participation, which is followed by validation by the Higher Learning Commission Board of Trustees.

According to Thomas Perin, Owens Associate Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Accreditation Liaison Officer, the Higher Learning Commission reviewers noted several times about how Owens Community College is a national leader in continuous quality improvement and the Academic Quality Improvement Program process.

“The campus community’s commitment, dedication, enthusiasm and innovation are the reasons that Owens Community College is able to achieve a status of excellence, not only through the reaffirmation of accreditation, but also with the Higher Learning Commission.”

Among the Academic Quality Improvement Program action projects Owens has engaged in during the last few years includes initiating a shared leadership model, student retention and assessment of student learning, among others.

The Higher Learning Commission is an independent corporation and one of two commission members of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, which was founded in 1895 as one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. The Higher Learning Commission accredits, and thereby grants membership in the Commission and in the North Central Association, degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the North Central region. The Higher Learning Commission is the largest of six regional accreditors covering more than 19 states and over 1,000 academic institutions.

Owens Community College to Host Spring Theatre Production Auditions, Jan. 28-29

Posted on January 17th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents interested in performing in the upcoming student production of the “Noises Off” are invited to open theatre auditions at Owens Community College, Jan. 28-29.

Auditions will take place Monday and Tuesday, Jan. 28 and 29, from 6-9 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre Room 111. Callback auditions will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 30. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Each individual is encouraged to prepare a one-minute comedic monologue as part of the audition or a monologue will be provided for them. The theatre production dates are April 12-14 and 19-21.

Written by Michael Frayn, “Noises Off” tells the comedic story of backstage and onstage antics involving a group of theatre performers attempting to present the production “Nothing On”. An unending number theatrical blunders and hysterical personal adventures serve as the focal point to the chaotic production.

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 Community College Receives National Endowment for the Humanities Muslim Journeys Bookshelf Award

Posted on January 16th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The Owens Community College libraries on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses have earned the distinction of being chosen by the National Endowment for the Humanities, in collaboration with the American Library Association, to receive the prestigious Muslim Journeys Bookshelf Award.

The award is part of the National Endowment for the Humanities Bridging Cultures initiative, which engages the power of the humanities to promote understanding of and mutual respect for people with diverse histories, cultures and perspectives within the United States and abroad. Projects already funded under the Bridging Cultures initiatives address themes as varied as the role of civility in democracy, religious pluralism in the United States, the Muslim world and the humanities, the role of women in war and peace, and the history of relations between China and Africa, among others.

As part of its Bridging Cultures initiative, the National Endowment for the Humanities is collaborating with the American Library Association to present Muslim journeys, the first in a planned series of Bridging Cultures Bookshelves. Through Bridging Cultures Bookshelf program, the National Endowment for the Humanities will provide resources to enhance Owens’ library collections and their capacity to engage audiences in reflection on and conversation about the Bridging Cultures theme of the Muslim world.

“Owens Community College is extremely honored to be chosen to participate in the National Endowment for the Humanities Bridging Cultures initiative and the opportunity to raise awareness about the heritage and cultures of Muslims in this country and worldwide,” said Thomas Sink, Owens Library Dean. “I would like to thank the Owens Muslim Student Association as well as several local community groups for their enthusiastic support in helping Owens Community College secure such a prestigious honor.”

Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager on the Findlay-area Campus added, “The educational resources provided by the National Endowment for the Humanities will afford Owens Community College the opportunity to share the journeys made by Muslims to America through a variety of educational programming and resources. We look forward to celebrating diversity and its significance in our society through enriched learning opportunities.”

The Muslim Journeys Bookshelf provided to Owens will feature a book and video collection and is designed to introduce individuals to new and diverse perspectives on the people, places, histories, beliefs, practices and cultures. Educational programming will be open to the public and begin in the fall of 2013 on the College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

Created in 1965 as an independent federal agency, the National Endowment for the Humanities supports learning in history, literature, philosophy and other areas of the humanities. National Endowment for the Humanities grants enrich classroom learning, create and preserve knowledge and bring ideas to life through public television, radio, new technologies, exhibitions and programs in libraries, museums and other community places.

Established in 1876, the American Library Association is the oldest and largest library association in the world. Through its Public Programs Office, the American Library Association promotes cultural and community programming as an essential part of library service in all types and sizes of libraries.

Owens Dental Program Offers Free Dental Services for Children During Give Kids A Smile Day, Feb. 1

Posted on January 16th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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. 1.

Owens’ Dental Hygiene program, in collaboration with the Toledo Dental Society, will be offering a day of free dental services for children with limited or no access to care 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. 1.

“Owens Community College’s Dental Hygiene program is excited 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 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.

OwensCommunity College Closed for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Jan. 21

Posted on January 15th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, will be closed on Monday, Jan. 21 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. 22.

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

Posted on January 10th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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.

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 2012 Fall Semester are:

Karrie Alvarez of Fostoria (office administration technology)
Patricia Bellville of Toledo (medical office support)
Brittney Bialecki of Holland (health information technology)
Ashley Bogue of Kenton (registered nursing)
John Bohm of Maumee (networking and information systems support)
Rose Bonilla of Toledo (registered nursing)
Holly Brown of Findlay (pre-business administration)
David Castro of Toledo (computer programming technology)
Candice Coleman of Toledo (dental hygiene)
Melissa Cook of Fostoria (accounting technology)
Tamala Dyar of Wayne (commercial art technology)
Rechawn Fair of Toledo (dental hygiene)
Edward Flores of Northwood (pre-business administration)
Amy Hannum of Toledo (history)
Jonathan Harman of Perrysburg (alternative energy and sustainable systems technology)
Annette Harper of Holland (social work)
Jon Hens of Perrysburg (associate of arts, general concentration)
Holly Jester of Perrysburg (culinary arts)
Rebecca Jones of Perrysburg (welding)
Rick Juarez of Toledo (music business technology)
Pamela Lambert of Toledo (social work)
Laurie Maze of Parma (medical office support)
Joshua McCartney of Fostoria (mechanical)
Jenelle Milletti of Holland (pre-nursing)
Tracy Mossing of Sylvania (pre-nursing)
Karen Ricica of Toledo (accounting technology)
Tamra Roe of Northwood (associate of arts, general concentration)
Rebecca Sabin of Bowling Green (accounting technology)
Robert Siler of Toledo (registered nursing)
Matthew Slee of Holland (registered nursing)
Cristina St. Clair of Toledo (pre-nursing)
Robert St. John of Monclova (radiologic technology)
Taraghi Hedieh of Toledo (dental assisting)
Jessica VanDenEynde of Forest (social work)
Donna Welly of New Riegel (pre-physical therapist assistant)
Holly-Lynn Palmer-Wright of Toledo (accounting technology)
Marianne York of Toledo (accounting technology)
Anthony Young of Belmore (psychology)

Owens Community College to Host Community Volunteer Action Fair, Jan. 15

Posted on January 9th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to learn about and explore the many available opportunities to give back to their local communities throughout Northwest Ohio as Owens Community College serves as host to a Community Volunteer Action Fair on Tuesday, Jan. 15.

Coordinated by the Office of Service Learning and Civic Engagement, the Community Volunteer Action Fair will take place from 11 a.m. – 2 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 the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Throughout the event, individuals can meet with local community outreach representatives and ask them questions about volunteer opportunities available through their organizations.

Area organizations in attendance will include the Padua Center, Odyssey Hospice, Toledo Seagate Food Bank, Lutheran Social Services of Northwestern Ohio, Camp Courageous, Wood County Park District, Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity, Toledo Botanical Garden and American Red Cross, among many others.

For more information about the Community Volunteer Action Fair, call (567) 661-2275 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2275.

Owens Community College Announces Prestigious ‘America’s Music’ Series, Jan. 15 – March 26

Posted on January 8th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has earned the distinction of being chosen as one of only 50 organizations nationwide by the American Library Association Public Programs Office and the Tribeca Film Institute, in consultation with Tribeca Flashpoint and the Society for American Music, to participate in the prestigious “America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to Broadway” program. The initiative is being made possible through a $125,000 nationwide funding grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to support programming at the 50 participating organizations.

“America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to Broadway” is designed to introduce genres of 20th century American popular music that are deeply connected to the history, culture and geography of the United States. The program features documentary screenings, musical performances and scholar-led discussions on such musical genres as blues and gospel, Broadway, jazz, bluegrass and county, rock ’n’ roll, and mambo and hip hop.

“Owens Community College is honored to be chosen as an ‘America’s Music’ participant,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “Music and film have played very important roles in shaping our country’s heritage and culture and Owens Community College looks forward to engaging both the campus community and the surrounding communities as we share learning and experiences from a music and film perspective.”

The first in a series of six educational programs will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 15. The event will begin at 7 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre and focus on the genre of blues and gospel music. A musical performance by The Good The Bad And The Blues will kick off the event, which will be followed by the feature films “Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues” and “Say Amen, Somebody”. Bowling Green State University Department of Popular Culture faculty member Dr. Matthew Donahue will lead a lecture discussion at the film’s conclusion. All “America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to Broadway” programming presented by Owens is free and open to the public.

The additional five “America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to Broadway” events will occur at the following dates, times and locations:

(Broadway)

Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. in the Way Public Library in Perrysburg

Film: “Broadway: The American Musical”

Musical Performance: Jodi Jobuck, Lynda Dunn and Jo-Anne Chrysochoos

(Jazz)

Tuesday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre in Perrysburg Township

Film: Ken Burns’ “Jazz” and “International Sweethearts of Rhythm”

Musical Performance: Owens Jazz Ensemble

(Bluegrass and Country)

Tuesday, Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre in Perrysburg Township

Film: “High Lonesome: The Story of Bluegrass Music”

Musical Performance: Hand Hand String Band

(Rock ’n’ Roll)

Tuesday, March 12 at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre in Perrysburg Township

Film: “The History of Rock ’n’ Roll”

Musical Performance: MAD 45

(Mambo and Hip Hop)

Tuesday, March 26 at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre in Perrysburg Township

Film: “Latin Music USA” and “From Mambo to Hip Hop: A South Bronx Tale”

Musical Performance: Price of the Ticket

For more information about the “America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to Broadway” series, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-7956 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7956.

Owens Surgical Technology Students to Host Community Blood Drive, Jan. 15

Posted on January 8th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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, Jan. 15.

The Blood Drive will occur from 10 a.m. – 4 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. The Blood Drive will be staffed by Owens surgical technology and sterile processing student classes.

Qualified donors must be at least 17 years of age and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds. 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 provides service to 11 counties in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

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.redcrosssblood.org and entering the sponsor code OWENSCCPERRYSBURG or calling the above number.

Owens Findlay-area Campus to Host Third Annual Community Volunteer Fair, Jan. 17

Posted on January 7th, 2013

FINDLAY, Ohio – Area residents are invited to learn about and explore the many available opportunities to give back to their local communities throughout Northwest Ohio as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus serves as host to its third annual Community Volunteer Fair on Thursday, Jan. 17.

The Community Volunteer Fair is being presented in conjunction with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service and will take place from 10 a.m. – 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.

“Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus is proud to present a community outreach event which showcases the many opportunities available for individuals to volunteer their time and give back through community service,” said James Katzner, Owens Manager of Career Services and Student Activities.

Throughout the event, individuals can meet with local community outreach representatives and ask them questions about volunteer opportunities available through their organizations.

Area organizations in attendance will include the Children’s Mentoring Connection of Hancock County, Open Arms Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services, Read for L.I.F.E., Special Kids Therapy, Hancock Park District, Findlay Family YMCA, National Alliance on Mental Illness, Blanchard Valley Health System, Hancock County Agency on Aging and Blanchard Valley Center, among many others.

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

Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery Presents ‘A Painting a Day’ Art Exhibit, Jan. 10 – Feb. 7

Posted on January 7th, 2013

Owens Findlay-area Campus’ “A Painting a Day” exhibit will feature such work as the apple oil painting by Erika Clark.

FINDLAY, Ohio – Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus continues its 2012-13 arts season with an exhibit highlighting an array of vibrant paintings that were created in the span of a day by local artists Erika Clark and Kristen Dukat, as well as by Owens employees, students and Child Care Center children, as the Library Gallery presents “A Painting a Day” in conjunction with the nationwide Daily Painters movement, Jan. 10 – Feb. 7.

In addition, the College will host a reception and gallery talk for Clark, Dukat, and Owens employees, students and Child Care Center children on Wednesday, Jan. 16 from 6-8 p.m. The reception and lecture are free and open to the public and 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 excited to showcase the art of painting by two extremely talented local artists, as well as artwork produced by Owens employees, students and Child Care Center children, in celebration of the Daily Painting movement,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “Creating art takes exercise, as well as imagination and training, and its enemies include overworking and over thinking. The idea of creating a painting a day does not allow artists to get bogged down in the fine details. Exhibit attendees will certainly be amazed by the various paintings, which were all created in the span of a day.”

Both Clark and Dukat are members of the Daily Painters of Northwest Ohio and are advocates of the Daily Painting movement, which has been gaining momentum around the globe since 2005. The two artists have garnered regional and national acclaim for their artwork and have been featured in numerous exhibitions throughout the region. Clark serves as the Studio Manager of Blanchard Valley Center’s Kan Du Studio, while Dukat paints professionally through the Daily Paintworks organization.

Approximately 30 six-inch oil paintings, highlighting such images as fruit, flowers and scenic landscapes, will be on display at the start of Owens’ “A Painting a Day” exhibit. Additional artwork is expected to adorn the exhibition walls as daily paintings are completed by the artists.

Owens Community College Foundation Announces 2013-14 Scholarship Program Opportunities

Posted on January 4th, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The Owens Community College Foundation is investing in Northwest Ohio’s educational future by making available thousands of dollars in scholarship opportunities as part of the academic institution’s 2013-14 Scholarship Program.

Through the generosity of businesses and individuals within the surrounding communities, the Owens Foundation will offer current and future students the opportunity to apply for over 60 available scholarships for the upcoming 2013-14 academic year. Scholarship applicants must complete and return the application to the Oserve Office at any one of the College’s four locations by Feb. 15. Scholarship award notification will begin in May 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 2013-14 academic year must be on file in the College’s Oserve Office by Feb. 28. FAFSA and Foundation Scholarship Program forms are available in the College’s Oserve Office or can be downloaded by accessing the Owens website at www.owens.edu ( http://www.owens.edu/ ).

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

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.7 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 29 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

This past academic year, Owens provided more than $96 million in grants, scholarships, loans and federal work study to support the educational needs of students. For more information on Owens Foundation scholarship opportunities, call (567) 661-7603 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7603.

Owens Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery Presents ‘Rock On: Photographs by Baron Wolman’ Exhibit, Jan. 7 – March 28

Posted on January 3rd, 2013

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents will have the opportunity to become immersed into the lives of arguably some of the most notable contemporary musicians, as seen through the camera lens of internationally recognized photographer Baron Wolman, as Owens Community College’s Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery opens the 2013 season with an exhibit titled “Rock On: Photographs by Baron Wolman”, Jan. 7 – March 28.

In addition to the exhibit, Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts will serve as host to a lecture presentation by Baron Wolman on Thursday, March 21 at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre. The lecture will highlight his experiences with some of the most well-known contemporary musicians of the 20th century. The Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is located in Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is excited to present such a unique exhibition that highlights the marriage between music and the visual arts and focuses on photography as a tool for recording history,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “Baron Wolman is known worldwide for his amazing photography. His unique perspectives to journalistic photography, contemporary history and the creative process have merged to create some of the most iconic images of the 20th century.”

In 1967, Wolman was approached by Jann Wenner, the founder of “Rolling Stone”, to become the publication’s first chief photographer. The meeting led to Wolman witnessing and capturing the moments of arguably one the most important periods of change in popular music and culture through his camera, with the images serving as a focal point for the magazine. For three years at the publication, Wolman’s photographs were known for capturing the events and personalities as well as visualizing the music.

Over the years, Wolman’s artistic talents have been showcased in art galleries around the world. His most recent book “Every Picture Tells A Story – Baron Wolman, The Rolling Stone Years” highlights stories and photographs of some of the most significant artists and events of the period. Wolman’s professional background also includes sports photography, aerial photography, figure photography and portraits.

Over 30 photographs will be on display in Owens’ “Rock On: Photographs by Baron Wolman” exhibit. Featured musicians within the photographs will include James Brown, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Duke Ellington, Jim Morrison, Neil Young, Tina Turner, Chuck Berry, George Harrison and Joan Baez, among others.

In addition to the photographs, music-specific artifacts and collectibles from the 1880s through the 1980s will be showcased in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. Items ranging from record albums and posters to period clothing and concert tickets will provide attendees with a further look into the musical past.

“Rock On: Photographs by Baron Wolman” is being presented in part by a grant from the Ohio Humanities Council.

Admission to the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; and from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. For additional information about the exhibit, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2721 or (567) 661-2721.

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Owens Board of Trustees Honors Express Volleyball Team

Posted on January 2nd, 2013

Owens officials and volleyball team members pose for a photo after being honored at the College’s Board of Trustees meeting.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Board of Trustees recently honored the Express women’s volleyball team for exhibiting leadership, teamwork and excellence during their highly successful 2012 season. Team members were recognized for their achievements at the College’s Board of Trustees meeting.

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized by the Owens Community College Board of Trustees,” said Rudy Yovich, Owens Director of Athletics. “Our student-athletes would not be able to realize their full potential, both in competition and in the classroom, if not for the support of our Board of Trustees and our outstanding administration. For that, we are truly grateful.”

The Express women’s volleyball team recently completed one of its most successful seasons in program history finishing fourth among 16 teams in the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament. Owens served as the host site for the national tournament.

Owens totaled two victories and two loses during the three-day double elimination consolation tournament. Tournament wins came againstKirkwood Community College and Iowa Central Community College. The Express’ tournament loses were to Cowley County Community College and Parkland College. This was Owens’ third trip to the NJCAA Division II National championship tournament and their best finish in program history at this level, besting the 2003 team’s fifth place finish. Additionally, the Express participated in five Division III national championship tournaments and finished third in 1998, 1999 and 2000.

Express women’s volleyball completed the 2012 season with a 37-11 overall record and captured its 12th Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season championship in the last 13 years. Coach Lewis’ squad finished 12-0 in the OCCAC regular season standings and was ranked No. 17 in the latest NJCAA Division II national volleyball regular season poll.

Team members are Molly Hilfinger of Whitehouse, setter (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Alyssa Meis of Curtice, outside hitter (Genoa H.S.); Brandi Schimming of Martin, defensive specialist (Genoa H.S.); Kennedy Geyman of Monroe, Mich., defensive specialist/outside hitter (Jefferson H.S.); Tiffani Hobbs of Toledo, rightside hitter (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.); Kenzie Kleinhenz of St. Henry, rightside hitter (St. Henry H.S.); Dakia Sellers of Mansfield, outside hitter/middle blocker (Madison H.S.); Jazmine Thomas of Lima, middle blocker (Lima Senior H.S.); Lisa Urbanski of Toledo, defensive specialist (Notre Dame Academy); Bailey Windham of Monroe, Mich., setter (St. Mary Catholic Central H.S.), and Dominique Yates of Toledo, middle blocker/outside hitter (Bowsher H.S.).

Owens Community College Graduates Over 530 Students During Fall Commencement Ceremonies

Posted on December 18th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Over 530 Owens Community College students recently realized their educational goals and dreams as they were awarded degrees in various academic disciplines during the academic institution’s 32nd annual Fall Commencement ceremony.

For 42-year-old Amy Harrison of Toledo, a criminal justice technology major, Fall Commencement represents the start of new career aspirations within the field of law enforcement.

“I always had an interest in law enforcement and decided it was time to go back to school and pursue my passion,” explained Harrison, who has been working in accounting for the past 20 years. “Graduating with my degree in criminal justice is a sense of accomplishment and pride.”

Harrison, an Honors graduate, added, “I have learned so much during my time at Owens. There are so many great people who have helped me get to where I am today. I am extremely thankful and excited to begin my new law enforcement career as a dispatcher.”

Washington Court House resident Adam Wickensimer views his graduation from Owens as the first step in his educational journey as the 28-year-old intends to now pursue his bachelor’s degree in business through a unique articulation partnership between Owens and Ohio University.

“Every moment is significant in life and graduating from Owens is certainly a significant moment,” stated Wickensimer, an Honors Program Scholar as well as a published poet and a military veteran. “I eventually want to attend law school with the goal of serving as an advocate for the disadvantaged and minorities.”

Dr. Katherine Fell, President of The University of Findlay, served as the keynote speaker for the College’s Fall Commencement and provided the graduates with some words of encouragement as they begin the next stage of their lives.

“Graduates, I am honored to be here with you. I know that the faculty and staff of Owens Community College have prepared you well,” stated Fell. “In fact, I make some assumptions about you because you are graduating from this highly respected college: I assume that you are self-disciplined, curious about the world around you, and ready to begin, on this commencement day, the next stage of your education, whether that be pursuing another degree or learning on the job as you start a new career.”

Additionally, Chelsey McMillan, a registered nursing student, was selected as the Owens class representative and addressed the graduates during Fall Commencement ceremony.

McMillan’s speech highlighted the challenges she and the other graduates encountered on their own personal journeys.

“As I look out into this crowd, I know that each of us, however different we may seem or look, are all similar because we have all encountered obstacles and tragedies that made our goals seem impossible to reach,” stated the Monroe, Mich., resident. “I want to let you know that I am so proud of each and every one of you for possessing the courage and persistence to not give up on your dreams in times of hardship, but instead to excel and accomplish a major milestone.”

She added, “Congratulations on reaching such an incredible accomplishment. I wish you all the best of luck and may each of your personal journeys lead you to a world of success and happiness in your future careers.”

McMillan began her educational journey at Owens in January 2011 after working toward a nursing degree at another college.

“Right away at Owens, I noticed a supportive environment. I felt like the faculty wanted to see you succeed,” explained the 22-year-old.

In addition to the honor of being selected to represent her class, McMillan holds a 4.0 grade-point average at Owens and enjoys running marathons in her personal time.

She credits her success to the support and love of her family, as well as her boyfriend, Drew, and his family. She would like to thank the nursing faculty for its support, especially Julie Lohse, who McMillan described as her constant cheerleader.

After graduation, McMillan, a 2008 Jefferson High School graduate, envisions working as an Obstetrics Nurse and plans on pursuing her bachelor’s degree and eventually becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife or a Nurse Practitioner.

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Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Deliver Over 200 Toys to Area Hospital Children

Posted on December 18th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Plenty of smiles could be seen within several area hospitals recently thanks to the humanitarian efforts of Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus’ Student Nursing Association. More than 200 toys ranging from dolls and handmade wooden cars to coloring books and board games, collected as part of a community-wide drive, were given to children forced to spend the holiday season in local hospitals.

“Giving a child a toy can make a world of difference while they are staying in the hospital,” said Claire Vroman of Findlay, an Owens licensed practical nursing student and Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association Treasurer. “No child wants to spend the holidays in the hospital. If we can take their mind off their illness and brighten their day than we have accomplished our goal.”

Among the hospitals where Owens students and faculty personally hand-delivered the charitable gifts included Blanchard Valley Health System in Findlay, Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, Lima Memorial Health System in Lima, Mercy Hospital of Tiffin in Tiffin, Fremont Memorial Hospital in Fremont and Fostoria Community Hospital in Fostoria. Over 815 toys have been donated to area hospital children in the last eight years.

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

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Owens Community College Closed During Holiday Season

Posted on December 17th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, will be closed Saturday through Tuesday, Dec. 22 – Jan. 1, for the holiday season. Administrative offices will open again on Wednesday, Jan. 2.

Spring Semester classes begin on Monday, Jan. 7.

Ohio Governor Reappoints Community Leader to Owens Board of Trustees Position

Posted on December 11th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Ohio Gov. John R. Kasich has reappointed Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg to the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. McMaster will serve a six-year term on the College’s Board of Trustees ending in 2018.

“We are honored that Dr. Ronald McMaster will continue to provide leadership to Owens Community College’s Board of Trustees,” said Dee Talmage, Chair of the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. “Ron’s unwavering commitment to higher education has had a profound impact on Owens Community College and we look forward to his continued dedication and support toward advancing the academic institution’s mission through excellence, innovation and collaboration.”

McMaster was initially appointed to the College’s Board of Trustees in March 1993. During his Board of Trustees tenure, McMaster has served as Chair from 2006-07 and Vice Chair from 2003-05. His involvement also includes serving on several Board of Trustees ad hoc and standing committees, including the Finance Committee, Trustees Collaboration Committee and for Owens Community College Presidential Searches.

Additionally, McMaster has made significant contributions to the mission of Owens Community College and the Owens Community College Foundation through fostering relationships, most notably with the Gateway to College National Network and the McMaster Foundation, in the support of students attaining, persisting and completing degrees in high school and in college.

McMaster is retired from GlassTech Inc. as Vice President of Corporate Development. He earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Ohio State University and a doctoral degree from the University of Michigan, all within the concentration of mechanical engineering.

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

Owens Board of Trustees members include Diana H. (Dee) Talmage of Ottawa Hills, H. Richard Rowe of Findlay, Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg, Edwin J. Nagle of Toledo, William E. Takacs of Toledo and Thomas R. Uhler of Rossford.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Deliver Toys to Area Hospital Children, Dec. 17

Posted on December 11th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – The Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association is working to spread happiness and cheer throughout the surrounding communities by brightening the lives of children forced to spend the holiday season in local hospitals. Toys ranging from dolls to miniature trucks, collected within the last few weeks, will soon find their way to a smiling child’s arms as the Student Nursing Association presents the donated gifts to area hospitals on Monday, Dec. 17.

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 11 a.m., the members will divide up into groups and depart for six area hospitals to personally hand deliver the charitable gifts. Among the hospitals where Owens students will make visits are Blanchard Valley Health System at 11:15 a.m. (145 W. Wallace St.) in Findlay, Fostoria Community Hospital at 11:30 a.m. (501 Van Buren St.) in Fostoria, Lima Memorial Health System at 11:45 p.m. (1001 Bellefontaine Ave.) in Lima, Fremont Memorial Hospital at 12:30 a.m. (715 S. Taft Ave.) in Fremont, Mercy Hospital of Tiffin at 1:30 p.m. (485 W. Market St.) in Tiffin and Wood County Hospital at 12:45 p.m. (950 W. Wooster St.) in Bowling Green. Over 615 toys were donated to area hospital children the last seven years.

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

Posted on December 11th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The Owens Community College Alumni Association has named Matt Feasel of Perrysburg, Treasurer for Perrysburg Schools, as the new President of the Alumni Association. Feasel replaces Andrea Gurcsik of Maumee, Manager of Human Resources for First Solar, who served as Alumni Association President for the previous two years.

In addition, the Alumni Association named Walter Celley of Perrysburg,Attorney at Celley & Sanderson LLP, as Vice President; Amy Hansen of Curtice, Owner/Photographer of Imagine That Photo, as Treasurer; and Kaye Koevenig of Toledo, Owens Community College Senior Accountant as Secretary. Each officer will serve a two-year term.
Three Directors were re-elected to their positions and will serve three-year terms. Re-elected Directors include Susan Litten of Maumee, Owens Community College Adjunct Instructor of Medical Imaging Technologies; Janet M. Meacham of Rossford, Vice President Senior Merchant Account Executive for Fifth Third Processing Solutions LLC, and Christi Wagner of Deshler, Manager of Global Security for Owens Corning.
In addition, Audrey Wright of Toledo, Judicial Office Manager for Lucas County Juvenile Court, was appointed to a one-year term. She is a 2003 graduate of Owens Community College with a degree in African-American studies and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in management and organizational development from Spring Arbor University. Wright is active in serving her community as a board member and volunteer.

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

The Owens Community College Alumni Association is focused on engaging alumni and students in programs, events and services that energize interest, build loyalty and strengthen support of Owens Community College.

Since opening its doors in 1965, Owens has provided higher education to thousands of students. Owens’ Alumni Association is committed to the personal and professional success of alumni and students through the ongoing development of value-added initiatives benefiting both individuals and the community.

Owens Community College Students Showcase Baking and Pastry Talents Through Delectable Desserts

Posted on December 4th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents recently were invited to experience an array of amazing foods ranging from chocolate truffles to candy cane bark at the Owens Community College Terrace View Café as students within the Culinary Arts Program’s Baking and Pastry II class presented “An Evening of Chocolate” during a themed dessert buffet event.

The Baking and Pastry II class opened the College’s student-run Terrace View Café to the public as attendees enjoyed the opportunity to partake of Parisian macaroon cookies, chocolate cake pops, candy cane bark, hazelnut ice cream with brownie, white chocolate pistachio cookies, an assortment of chocolate truffles and chocolate with dipping pretzels, marsh mellow and strawberries. Owens’ restaurant is coordinated by the Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Department.

Owens students showcasing their talents were Shelbie Pinkelman of Metamora, Jerilyn St. Clair of Swanton, Amber Simmet of Delphos and Linzy Packard of Bowling Green. The Baking and Pastry II class is taught by Owens Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Instructor Kelly Wolfe.

The Baking and Pastry II class is designed to provide students with experiential learning related to fundamental baking techniques, food science and sensory perception as frameworks, among other academic areas. Classroom instruction includes the examination of taste, baking and pastry techniques, ingredients and spices, as well as academic curriculum that builds on previous educational learning in such areas as recipe research, recipe production for consumption, recipe evaluation and cost analysis.

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538 Owens Community College Students to Graduate During Fall Commencement, Dec. 14

Posted on December 3rd, 2012

Dr. Katherine Fell

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Five hundred thirty-eight candidates for graduation, including 118 from the Findlay-area Campus, will receive their degrees during the 32nd annual Owens Community College Fall Commencement on Friday, Dec. 14. The commencement will begin at 7 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the College’s Toledo-area Campus.

President of The University of Findlay Dr. Katherine Fell will serve as the keynote speaker for the College’s Fall Commencement. Owens’ commencement ceremony is free and open to the public.

Fell became the 17th President of The University of Findlay on July 1, 2010. She has led the University community through an update of the 2005-15 Strategic Plan, adding emphases on international travel and service learning as shared experiences for the University’s students and sparking a re-examination of the core curriculum.

Fell is a member of the American Association of University Women and of Handbags That Help, a women’s philanthropic organization serving Hancock County. She served as keynote speaker for the American Association of University Women’s 2011 State Conference and was recognized as one of Ohio’s Most Powerful and Influential Women during the 2011 Ohio Diversity and Leadership Conference.

She previously served as Vice President for Advancement at Centenary College, Shreveport, La., where she had been the Chief Development Officer since 2000. Fell began her tenure at Centenary in 1986 as an Associate Professor of English. During her 14 years as a Professor, she developed an interdisciplinary major in communication, which grew to become one of the college’s strongest majors, and taught a variety of English courses.

A native of Stamps, Ark., she holds a bachelor of science in education in English, with a minor in speech, from Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia, and a master of arts in English from Louisiana Technical University in Ruston, La. She completed a doctorate in English from Texas A&M University at College Station. Fell and her husband, Roger, are the parents of six children.

Chelsey McMillan

Chelsey McMillan, a registered nursing student, has been selected as the Owens class representative and will address the graduates during Fall Commencement ceremony.

The Monroe, Mich., resident began her educational journey at Owens in January 2011 after working toward a nursing degree at another college.

“Right away at Owens, I noticed a supportive environment. I felt like the faculty wanted to see you succeed,” explained the 22-year-old McMillan.

In addition to the honor of being selected to represent her class, McMillan holds a 4.0 grade-point average at Owens and enjoys running marathons in her personal time.

According to her instructors, she is a student who always goes above and beyond in her studies, has a positive attitude and is outstanding in patient care.

“If it wasn’t for Owens, I wouldn’t have the chance at becoming a registered nurse. Owens did so much more than give me a degree, they gave me a chance to do what I love,” said McMillan.

One of McMillan’s favorite quotes is “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Her speech will address the challenges she and the other graduates encountered on their own personal journeys.

Owens Diagnostic Medical Sonography Faculty and Students Deliver Winter Clothing to Those Less Fortunate, Dec. 1 and 8

Posted on November 29th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography faculty and students are reaching out those in need of coats and apparel during the winter months by distributing several hundred items ranging from coats to mittens Saturday mornings, Dec. 1 and 8.

The community outreach initiative is titled “Susie’s Coats” and named in honor of Owens Diagnostic Medical Sonograpy Chair Susan Perry of Woodville. Now in its sixth year, “Susie’s Coats” has provided over 2,200 winter clothing items to those less fortunate in the Toledo area.

According to Perry, who was once homeless as a child, the initiative began when she celebrated her 50th birthday six years ago. Her family asked what she wanted for her birthday, which is Dec. 1, and she told them that she is blessed to have everything that she could ever want or need in her life. For that reason, Perry told her family that she wanted to help others and “Susie’s Coats” became a reality.

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

Beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday (Dec. 1 and 8), Owens faculty and students will distribute winter clothing to those less fortunate at the corner of North Michigan and Adams streets in downtown Toledo from a trailer donated by Toledo Harley-Davidson in Toledo. Owens representatives will be distributing items until 11:30 a.m. both days.

For more information, or to donate, call (567) 661-7560 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7560.

Owens Community College Honors Local Students for International Essay Writing Excellence

Posted on November 29th, 2012

International Essay Contest Winners (L to R) Madalyn Vesoulis, Savannah Brandon and Lauren Meyers pose for a photo with Owens Vice President and Provost Dr. Renay Scott during a special ceremony at Owens.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Three local middle school students were recently honored by Owens Community College’s Office of International Programs and Services for exhibiting writing excellence from a worldwide perspective as part of the first-ever International Essay Contest. Madalyn Vesoulis of Sylvania, Savannah Brandon of Mount Blanchard and Lauren Meyers of Fostoria were recognized for their accomplishments in conjunction with the academic institution’s celebration of International Education Week.

“Owens Community College’s Office of International Programs and Services is extremely honored and proud to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of Madalyn Vesoulis, Savannah Brandon and Lauren Meyers,” said Deborah Gavlik, Owens Director of International Programs and Services. “Each of their respective schools should be proud of them as they shared a very unique view of the world through their essays. On behalf of Owens Community College, I want to thank Madalyn, Savannah and Lauren for sharing their thoughts on the importance of world history.”

Each recipient was invited to read their award-winning essay during a special ceremony at Owens. Madalyn Vesoulis, a seventh grade student at West Side Montessori School in Toledo, was awarded first place for her essay titled “Cutting the Direct Line to World History”. Her essay sponsoring teacher is Mary Brandon. Savannah Brandon garnered second place honors for her essay titled “A Lost Generation”. She attends Riverdale Local Schools in Mount Blanchard as an eighth grade student and her essay sponsoring teacher is Beth Wetherill. Third place honors went to Lauren Meyers for her “The Effects of World History” essay. An eighth grade student, Meyers attends St. Wendelin Catholic School in Fostoria. Her essay sponsoring teacher is Adam Flugga.

The award-winning essays were chosen by a panel of current and retired Owens faculty and staff, as well as Owens international students. Selection criteria included overall impression of the essay, how the essay engages the reader, grammar, organization, and main and supporting ideas, among other areas. Each applicant could choose from several questions focused on international education. The essay submissions were based on their own personal beliefs and experiences.

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’ Office of International Programs and Services is committed to providing experiential learning opportunities to international students from around the globe. During the Fall Semester, over 115 students from 35 countries are pursuing higher education at Owens. Countries represented in Owens’ international student enrollment are Kenya, Egypt, China, India, Venezuela, Brazil, Colombia, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Nigeria and South Korea, among others.

Additionally, in the past several years, the College’s International Programs and Services has established several new study abroad educational opportunities for Owens students in such countries as China, Peru and Greece. Furthermore, eight students are attending Owens this fall term through the Community Colleges for International Development, which is supported through the U.S. Department of State, among many other initiatives.

Owens Community College Foundation Appoints Board of Directors to Leadership Positions

Posted on November 28th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The Owens Community College Foundation has named Daniel E. Kimmet of Toledo, retired Chief Operating Officer for Dillin Corp., to serve as the new Chairman for the Owens Foundation. Kimmet replaces Thomas F. Pounds of Toledo, President and Publisher of the “Toledo Free Press”, who served as Foundation Chairman for the previous two years.

In addition, the College’s Foundation Board of Directors elected James H. Geers of Findlay, retired Vice President of Global Human Resources at Cooper Tire & Rubber Company, as Vice Chairman and Alan M. Sattler of Rossford, President of the Acute Care Division of ProMedica Flower Hospital, as Treasurer. Each officer will serve a one-year term.

Five Directors were re-elected to their positions and will serve three-year terms. Re-elected Directors include James F. Carter of Grand Rapids, Wood County Commissioner; James H. Geers of Findlay; Jeannie Hylant of Sylvania, Executive Vice President of The Hylant Group, and Matthew J. Mishler of Lambertville, Mich., National Account Manager of Buckeye TeleSystem. In addition, Andrea M. Gurcsik of Maumee, Manager of Human Resources for First Solar Inc., and Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, Co-Founder (retired) of Rudolph/Libbe Companies Inc., were elected for three-year terms.

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

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2.6 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 29 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is developing and providing resources to advance the College’s overall mission of serving students and the surrounding communities. The Foundation is also dedicated to removing barriers to education by providing student scholarships and supporting growth and innovation at Owens.

Owens Community College to Host Free Stress Relief Artistic Expression Workshops, Dec. 3-6

Posted on November 27th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents interested in learning about ways to reduce the amount of stress in their lives through the arts are invited to attend several free workshops at Owens Community College titled “Using Art to Reduce Stress and Anxiety” in December.

Presented by Owens as part of the AmeriCorps College Completion Coaches Initiative, the four different, two-hour workshops will occur in College Hall Room 120B on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The workshops are free and open to the public.

The four separate workshops will occur Monday, Dec. 3 from 4-6 p.m.; Tuesday, Dec. 4 from 12-2 p.m.; Wednesday, Dec. 5 from 4-6 p.m., and Thursday, Dec. 6 from 12-2 p.m.

During the workshops, attendees will have the opportunity to explore stretching, relaxation and breathing techniques to reduce stress. Individuals will also learn about how the arts can assist in balancing life through self-care and self-expression. Each workshop will feature a different art-specific exercise focused on freedom of artistic expression. Hands-on activities will include collage-making (Dec. 3), cartoon your life (Dec. 4), self-portrait (Dec. 5) and still-life drawing (Dec. 6).

For more information, call (567) 661-2351 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2351.

Owens Community College Concert Band to Honor World War II Tuskegee Airman During Holiday Concert, Dec. 9

Posted on November 27th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College will welcome the holiday season, as well as pay tribute to Northwest Ohio World War II Tuskegee Airman Col. Harold H. Brown of Catawba Island, as the Concert Band presents a Holiday and Tuskegee Airmen Tribute Concert on Sunday, Dec. 9.

The concert will begin 2:30 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.

“We are eternally grateful to the brave service men and women who have defended our country’s freedom and democracy for hundreds of years,” said Fred Dais, Owens Adjunct Instructor in Fine and Performing Arts and Concert Band Conductor. “It is truly an honor to celebrate them and their heroism.”

Musical selections presented by the Owens Concert Band, which is comprised of Owens students and employees and community members, will include “Stars and Stripes for Christmas”, “Harlem Nocturne”, “A Jazzy Christmas”, “March Grandioso”, “Of Honor and Valor”, “A Hanukkah Festival”, “Winterfest” and “Merry Christmas Everyone”, among others.

During the concert, Brown will be honored for his dedication and commitment to his country. During World War II, Brown served in the 332nd Fighter Group and completed 30 missions before being shot down and held as a POW in Germany. He returned home in 1945 and served more than 23 years in the U.S. Air Force.

The Tuskegee Airmen were an elite group of African-American fighter pilots in the 1940s and pioneers in equality and integration of the U.S. Armed Forces. The term “Tuskegee Airmen” refers to all who were involved in the U.S. Army Air Corps program to train African-Americans to fly and maintain combat aircraft. The Tuskegee Airmen included pilots, navigators, bombardiers, maintenance and support staff, instructors and all personnel who kept the planes in the air.

For more information about Owens’ Holiday and Tuskegee Airmen Tribute Concert, contact the College’s Fine and Performing Arts Department at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Community College Veterans Services to Help Less Fortunate Children With Toy Drive, Nov. 27 – Dec. 12

Posted on November 26th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Office of Veterans Services is looking to spread holiday cheer to those less fortunate children by collaborating with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and hosting its second annual Toy Drive, Nov. 27 – Dec. 12.

Beginning Tuesday, Nov. 27, Veterans Services, in collaboration with the Office of Human Resources, will accept new and unwrapped toys as part of a collaborative effort with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. The donation drive will run through Dec. 12. All collected donations will then be delivered to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve for distribution to needy children in the surrounding communities.

“All children should experience the joys of the holiday season,” said Vickie Adams, Owens Director of Veterans Services. “Owens Community College is once again looking to spread cheer to less fortunate children throughout Northwest Ohio by hosting its annual toy drive. I encourage local residents to give back and brighten a child’s holiday season with a toy donation.”

Donations can be dropped off on the College’s Toledo-area Campus, which is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, in the College Hall Room 130B.

Owens’ Office of Veterans Services is dedicated to assisting veterans, active service persons, reservists and eligible dependents in their pursuit of a college education. Over 340 individuals representing the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Coast Guard are involved in Owens’ veterans services programs. The College recently earned the distinction of being designated as a Military Friendly School by Victory Media, a nationally-recognized media entity for military personnel transitioning into civilian life. The 2013 Military Friendly Schools listing honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools for exemplary efforts in embracing America’s military service members and veterans as students.

For more information about the toy drive, call (567) 661-8387 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 8387.

Owens and Connect Ohio Announce Free Computer Classes in December

Posted on November 26th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents interested in enhancing their knowledge and skills with computers and the Internet are invited to participate in free continuing education computer classes as Owens Community College and the non-profit Connect Ohio organization announce training opportunities during the month of December.

Individuals will be able to attend free computer classes at JOBsolutions of Wood County (1928 E. Gypsy Lane Rd.) in Bowling Green, the Owens Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo and the Owens Learning Center at Arrowhead Park in Maumee in December.

The educational initiative, titled Every Citizen Online, is led by Connect Ohio as part of a $6.9 million federal grant the organization has received to help expand access to broadband Internet to consumers across the state. Each class will highlight computer basics, an introduction to the Internet and discussion about how broadband can be helpful in daily life.

The upcoming six-hour computer classes will take place Saturdays, Dec. 1 and 8 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center. Classes will also occur Thursdays, Dec. 6 and 13 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Owens Learning Center at The Source. The final computer class session will be held at JOBsolutions of Wood County Fridays, Dec. 7 and 14 from 1-4 p.m.

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

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

Owens Community College Express Volleyball Program Finishes Fourth in NJCAA National Championship Tournament

Posted on November 19th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s volleyball team recently completed one of its most successful seasons in program history finishing fourth among 16 teams in the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament. Owens served as the host site for the national tournament.

“I am extremely proud of our Owens Community College Express volleyball team,” said Owens Express Head Coach Sonny Lewis. “We had a great year, which is a direct reflection on this team. This is one of the best groups of student-athletes I have ever coached. Team was first and foremost on their mind whenever they set foot on the volleyball court. They have represented Owens Community College with dignity and class and should proud of their very successful season.”

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Owens Findlay-area Campus to Host Fall Student Art Exhibit, Nov. 28 – Dec. 14

Posted on November 19th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Owens Community College students will have the opportunity to showcase their many artistic talents as the Findlay-area Campus serves as host to its annual Fall Student Art Exhibition titled “Our Best Yet” in the Library Gallery, Nov. 28 – De. 14.

Additionally, the College will host a free community event, featuring Owens students, titled “An Evening of the Arts at Owens” on Tuesday, Dec. 4. Owens student artists will share insight about their artistic expressions during a reception, which 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 excited to once again showcase the many talents of our students through the Fall Student Art Exhibition,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “The artistic expressions reflect their unique creative abilities and are inspiring. I encourage area residents to visit the Library Gallery and view their impressive work.”

The Fall Student Art Exhibition will feature work by student artists enrolled in the College’s “Foundations in 2D Design” course, which is instructed by Erika Clark. 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 Partin-Harding, Owens Adjunct Instructor, will 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.

Additionally, the exhibit will highlight numerous pieces of artwork from photography to drawings created by student artists enrolled in the College’s “Fundamentals of Drawing” course, which is instructed by Rhonda Grubbs, Owens Adjunct Instructor. In this course, students obtain experiential learning within various areas, including the study of object drawing, form organization, value, perspective, proportion and texture.

Students whose work will be displayed are Kellie Neill of Mount Blanchard, Sam Troyer of Findlay, Timoteo Saldana Honesto of Findlay, Rochelle Dillow of Findlay, Michaella Smith of Fostoria, Brianna Planz of Ottawa, Shaun Coleman of Fostoria, Jessica Thompson of Bowling Green, Reynaldo Valdez of Findlay, Zach Stienman of Jerry City, Meagan Butler of Van Buren, Audrey Elgin of Bloomdale, Rebecca Lockhart of Findlay, Deziree Lamon of Findlay, Michael Lowd of Findlay, Bettye Crawford of Findlay, Hank Doster of Findlay, Courtney Markley of Findlay, Tori Western of Findlay, Alicia Bryant of Fostoria, Jerusha Crossgrove of Findlay, Blake Mandalis of Ada, Samuel Troyer of Findlay and Shelby Williams of Findlay.

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

Posted on November 16th, 2012

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

Beginning Monday, Nov. 19, Owens’ Student Government will accept a variety of new and gently used caps and gowns. The Graduation Donation Program drive will run through Dec. 14. Collected caps and gowns will be available for Owens graduating students to use during Fall Commencement for a $10 deposit, while supplies last, as part of the Student Government outreach program. Interested graduates can pick up their cap and gown in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center Room 165 on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township starting Nov. 19.

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

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

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

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

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

For more information about the collection drive, or to donate, call (567) 661-2569 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2569.

Owens Surgical Technology Students to Host Community Blood Drive, Nov. 27

Posted on November 15th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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, Nov. 27.

The Blood Drive will occur from 11 a.m. – 5 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. The Blood Drive will be staffed by Owens surgical technology and sterile processing student classes.

The American Red Cross Western Lake Erie Region provides service to 11 counties in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Reach Out to Area Hospital Children With Toy Drive, Nov. 15 – Dec. 12

Posted on November 14th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – 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 eighth annual Toy Drive benefiting children staying in local hospitals. The organization is currently accepting donations of toys, Nov. 15 – Dec. 12.

“The Owens Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association is proud to once again help in bringing smiles to those children who must spend their holiday in the hospital by coordinating our annual toy drive,” said Heather Franks of Findlay, Owens registered nursing student and Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association President. “Something as simple as a toy can really make a difference for a child in the hospital. I encourage individuals to give back during the holiday season by donating a toy to help a child.”

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 Atrium area. On Dec. 17, the Student Nursing Association will wrap the donated toys and distribute them as gifts to children in the Blanchard Valley Health System, Wood County Hospital, Mercy Hospital of Tiffin, Lima Memorial Health System, Fremont Memorial Hospital and Fostoria Community Hospital. Over 615 toys were donated to area hospital children the last seven 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 College Closed Thanksgiving Weekend

Posted on November 14th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, will be closed Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 21-25 for the Thanksgiving holiday. There will be no classes and the College will be closed.

Classes will resume and administrative offices will open again on Monday, Nov. 26.

Owens Student Group Extends Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief Supply Drive Through Nov. 20

Posted on November 14th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College students are continuing to reach out to the victims of the hurricane that has devastated the East Coast by extending their Disaster Relief Supply Drive on the Toledo-area Campus through Tuesday, Nov. 20. The supply drive efforts are being coordinating by Owens’ Honors Club.

Items being collected include bottled water, blankets, sleeping bags, tarps, paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, mops, brooms, shovels, snow shovels, rakes, box fans, flashlights, batteries, shop vacuums, canned and non-perishable food items, personal care items, baby care items, first aid supplies and pet supplies, among other items.

Area residents can drop off their charitable donations on the Toledo-area Campus in the College Hall Atrium, the Student Health and Activities Center, the Library and Founders Hall. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

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

For more information, or to make a donation, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery to Host Annual Faculty Art Exhibition, Nov. 16 – Dec. 14

Posted on November 13th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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 serves as host to the 10th annual Faculty Art Exhibition, Nov. 16 – Dec. 14. The exhibition will be on display in the College’s Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery.

To celebrate the opening of the faculty art exhibit, a free reception will occur on Friday, Nov. 16 from 6-8 p.m. in the College’s Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“The Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is honored to showcase some of the finest artistic work of Owens Community College’s faculty as part of the annual Faculty Art Exhibition,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “Gallery attendees will truly enjoy the uniqueness and diversity of the exhibit as presented by award-winning graphic designers, photographers, painters, printmakers and sculptures.”

A wide range of visual media will be featured, including over 60 works of art in the areas of painting, ceramics, photography and mixed media.

The art showcase features artwork created by many notable and highly acclaimed Owens faculty members, including David Cantor of Toledo, Michelle Carlson-Junod of Toledo, Erika Clark of Findlay, Mania Dajnak of Perrysburg, Ruth Foote of Toledo, Tina Gionis of Toledo, Melissa Partin-Harding of McClure, Philip Hazard of Toledo, Barbara Johnson of Toledo, Lori King of Toledo, Nancy Light of Waterville, Larry Linkous of Rossford, Carey Marten of Toledo, Krista Richey of Bowling Green, Richardo Quinonez of Bowling Green, Mary Sabo of Maumee, Julie Schnell-Madden of Temperance, Mich., Kevin Schroeder of Toledo, John Walz of Waterville, Sally Welch of Perrysburg, Gary Wittenmyer of Bowling Green, Patricia Whittington of Holland and Jeremy Wadsworth of Clyde.

Owens Fine and Performing Arts Department Presents ‘Creative Noises Live’ Fifth Annual Fall Artist Series, Nov. 14 – Dec. 9

Posted on November 13th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents with a passion and an enjoyment of music, song, dance 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 fifth annual “Creative Noises Live” Fall Artist Series, Nov. 14 – Dec. 9.

Managed and promoted by the College’s music business portfolio class, the Fall Artist Series will feature the accomplishments of Owens students and faculty in a number of performances ranging from music to vocal.

All events will occur in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located in Perrysburg Township. The schedule of events is as follows:

Wednesday, November 14

Owens Voices Performance

The College’s vocal students will feature a wide variety of musical selections from the works of internationally acclaimed W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan as well as a preview of the upcoming choir concert.

(2 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda)

Harp Performance by Owens Adjunct Instructor Denise Grupp-Verbon

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear the rich colorful sound of the harp as part of a performance featuring Owens Adjunct Instructor Denise Grupp-Verbon. The performance will highlight original music as well as harp duet selections with harpist Judy Riley.

(6 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre)

Monday, November 26

Owens Plugged in Percussion Performance

An ear-opening performance of electronic-influenced music using acoustic percussion instruments will be showcased at Owens. Selections will include processed acoustic sounds, electronic percussion controllers and performing with Reason-created tracks. The performance will demonstrate how to move studio software into a performance setting. Artists will include Owens Fine and Performing Arts Associate Professor Michael Sander and Cuyahoga Community College’s Rob Ticherich.

(1:30 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre)

Friday, November 30

Owens Choir Concert

The College’s vocal students will feature a wide variety of musical selections from the works of internationally acclaimed W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan as well as usher in the holiday season with several crowd-pleasing carols.

(7 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre)

Tuesday, December 4

Owens Jazz Ensemble

Owens student performers will showcase their many talents through numerous crowd-pleasing musical favorites that highlight many diverse styles of jazz.

(3 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda)

Thursday, December 6

Owens Pop Music Ensemble

Owens student performers within the College’s pop ensemble class will showcase their musicals skills during a performance that will highlight an array of genres ranging from classic to the contemporary.

(2 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Rotunda)

Friday, December 7

Owens Dance Performance

Owens students and faculty will showcase their dancing talents and choreography skills to accompanied music in various genres, including ballet and modern dance.

(7 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre)

Sunday, December 9

Owens Concert Band Holiday and Tribute Concert

Attendees are in for an afternoon of masterful holiday sounds courtesy of Owens’ concert band class. The concert will feature a wide range of musical selections to usher in the holiday season as well as pay tribute to the Tuskegee Airman, including former Tuskegee Airman Harold Brown.

(2:30 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre)

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 Department of Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Fine and Performing Arts Department and Students Present ‘Short Farces by Anton Chekhov,’ Nov. 15-18

Posted on November 13th, 2012

Owens Student Production of 'Short Farces by Anton Chekhov'

Owens students (L to R) Sarah Wurzinger of Toledo, John Sweney of Perryburg and Silvester Rodriguez of Walbridge perform a scene from “The Festivities” which takes place during the production of “Short Farces by Anton Chekhov” at the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Normalcy and chaos in the form of short plays will converge in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre as Owens Community College presents the student production of “Short Farces by Anton Chekhov,” Nov. 15-18.

The first of several performances will occur at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15 in the College’s Mainstage Theatre. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College’s Department for Fine and Performing Arts is excited to present such a unique theatrical production, which brings together several short plays filled with very different circumstances,” said Jeremy Meier, Owens Assistant Professor of Fine and Performing Arts. “Attendees of all ages will truly enjoy the characters as performed by the College’s students and community members and the many surprises that take place throughout the production.”

Written by Anton Chekhov, “Short Farces by Anton Chekhov” details several different short comedies that begin with a relatively normal situation and build into a chaotic adventure of unique circumstances. Among the short comedies in the production are “The Bear”, “The Festivities” and “The Proposal”.

The cast of “Short Farces by Anton Chekhov” is comprised of students from Owens and community members and the theatrical production is directed by Jeremy Meier and Dave Nelms. The stage management team consists of Owens students Diane Schroeder of Sylvania, Marisa Soto of Woodville and Mallory Myers of Whitehouse.

Students and community members involved in the production as cast members include Sarah Wurzinger of Toledo, John Sweney of Perrysburg, Silvester Rodriguez IV of Walbridge, Matthew Crawford of Sylvania, Melissa Shaffer of Bowling Green, Tim Grindle of Toledo, Rachel Ramlawi of Perrysburg, Esteban Vega of Toledo, Ashley Myatt of Walbridge, Devon Held of Pemberville and Jon Masters of Toledo.

“Short Farces by Anton Chekhov” will be performed Nov. 15-17 at 7:30 p.m. A matinee performance will also occur on Sunday, Nov. 18 at 3 p.m.

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/arts 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. 2787.

Owens Community College to Host Free International Education Week Events, Nov. 13-15

Posted on November 8th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will celebrate International Education Week with a series of events and activities highlighting multinational experiences, Nov. 13-15.

Presented by the International Programs and Services Office, Owens’ International Education Week events are free and open to public and will occur on the College’s Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

The week’s events will kick off on Tuesday, Nov. 13, with an International Flag Ceremony. The kick-off event will commence with welcome remarks by Owens representatives followed by Owens international students sharing their higher educational experience from an international student perspective. The ceremony will continue with the announcement of the three award recipients of the Seventh/Eighth Grade International Essay Contest and the reading of their award-winning essays. The ceremony will conclude with Owens’ international students presenting their country’s flag at the College’s newly named International Plaza. The event will take place from 10-11:30 a.m. in the courtyard adjacent to the Student Health and Activities Center.

Activities will continue from 12-3 p.m. on Tuesday with an International Celebration in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda. During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to sample an array of ethnic food from around the globe as well as experience musical sections and dances from other countries as presented by Owens international students.

Also on Tuesday, area residents will be able to view and purchase various handcrafts as 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 Center for Fine and Performing Arts from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The 10,000 Villages will also make their handcrafts available for purchase in the College Hall hallway near the Bookstore from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 14.

On Wednesday, Nov. 14, exchange students from Belgium who are studying at Owens this semester will present information about their country and college Haute Ecole Libre Mosane (HELMO) in Liege, Belgium as part of a lecture presentation at 9 a.m. in the Heritage Hall Atrium. Later that same day at 11:30 a.m., Fulbright Scholar Farzona Rahimova will share insight about her home country of Tajikistan. Attendees will learn about Tajikistan’s geography, culture, food, economy, history and current challenges. The lecture will take place in College Hall Room 100. Wednesday’s lecture presentations will conclude with individuals learning about life in Greece as well as the country’s rich heritage and culture from Owens Honors Program students Andrew Hartke and Amanda Wyatt at 2 p.m. in College Hall Room 100. The students participated in a study abroad experience in Greece last spring.

International Education Week activities will continue on Thursday, Nov. 15, as The Ohio State University’s Center for Slavic and East European Studies provide details specific to different international career paths from 10-11:30 a.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Room 111. Additionally, International Education Week attendees will have the opportunity to view the international documentary film “Crossing Borders” from 12-2 p.m. in College Hall Room 100. The documentary follows four Moroccan and four American university students on their travels through Morocco. Shared experiences between the student groups are realized during their trip, which contrast sharply with the media-shaped views Americans and Muslims have of each other. An open discussion will follow the film presentation.

For additional information about Owens’ International Education Week activities, call (567) 661-2773 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2773.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Students Receive Board of Trustees Excellence Awards

Posted on November 8th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Owens Community College students Hannah Russell of Findlay and Jeffrey Hansell of Findlay have been chosen by the Board of Trustees Student Life Committee to receive student excellence awards for their commitment to academics, community engagement, student leadership and involvement in student life.

Russell received the Certificate of Recognition for Exceptional Student Leadership, while Hansell was honored with the Certificate of Recognition for Exemplary Academic Achievement. The two students were recognized for their achievements at the College’s recent Board of Trustees meeting.

Russell was nominated by Dana Roof for her leadership and serving as a positive role model for students pursuing a college education at Owens. The social work major has devoted her time in advancing the mission of Owens through such initiatives as serving as a Bridge to Success Program peer mentor, working in the advising area as a student worker and through her visits to high schools where she shares her message of how Owens changed her life.

Hansell, a CAD technology major, was nominated by Eric Duling for his achievement and his focus on student learning while mentoring and assisting students. Hansell’s exemplary academic achievement in design technologies, including his application of concepts to fully functioning assemblies, has been instrumental in his ability as a student worker to articulate the applications of design to enhance student success among his fellow students.

The Board of Trustees Student Life Committee was chartered last year to recognize and celebrate students who demonstrate the College’s core values of service, learning, innovation, collaboration and excellence through their achievements in academics, community engagement or involvement in student leadership and student life.

The College’s Board of Trustees is comprised of eight community leaders from Lucas, Wood, Hancock and Sandusky counties who are appointed by the Governor of Ohio. Owens Board of Trustees members include Diana H. (Dee) Talmage of Ottawa Hills, H. Richard Rowe of Findlay, Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg, R J Molter of Woodville, Edwin J. Nagle of Toledo, William E. Takacs of Toledo and Thomas R. Uhler of Rossford.

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Owens Community College Express Women’s Volleyball Program Advances to NJCAA Division II National Tournament, Nov. 15-17

Posted on November 8th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s volleyball program is one step away from being crowned national champions after winning the NJCAA Region XII District E Women’s Championship. As a result of their postseason success, the Express women’s volleyball team will now advance to the NJCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball National Championship Tournament, Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 15-17. Owens is serving as the host site for the national tournament.

This marks Owens’ third trip to the NJCAA Division II National championship tournament. Additionally, the Express participated in five Division III national championship tournaments and finished third in 1998, 1999 and 2000.

The Express earned their trip to nationals by winning the regional title at Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, Mich. Owens defeated Columbus State Community College (25-13, 20-25, 18-25, 25-22, 15-10) in the championship match to advance to the national tournament.

Led by Express Head Coach Sonny Lewis, the volleyball program’s overall record now stands at 35-9. In late October, the Express women’s volleyball team captured the outright Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season championship with a victory over Columbus State. Owens has won 12 out of the last 13 OCCAC regular season championships. Lewis’ squad finished 12-0 in the OCCAC regular season standings and is ranked No. 17 in the latest NJCAA Division II national volleyball regular season poll.

This marks the second consecutive year that Owens will host the national championship tournament. The College has hosted the national championship tournament on eight previous occasions. In addition to last year, Owens served as the host site for the NJCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball National Championship Tournament from 2001-04 and the NJCAA Division III Women’s Volleyball National Championship Tournament from 1998-2000.

The top 16 NJCAA Division II teams from across the country will compete in the double elimination consolation tournament. All matches will occur in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Tournament competition in the 16-team event begins on Thursday, Nov. 15, with first round matches taking place at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The second round will begin at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. On Friday, Nov. 16, the national volleyball tournament continues with losers’ bracket and national semifinal matches at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

The tournament will conclude on Saturday, Nov. 17, with consolation bracket matches at 12 p.m. followed by the fifth place match at 2:30 p.m., the third place match at 4:30 p.m. and national championship match at 6:30 p.m.

Owens will play Kirkwood Community College in their first match of the national tournament at 3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15. If they would advance, the Express will play the winner of the Iowa Central Community College/Monroe College match at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.

The list of 16 teams competing in the tournament are Cowley County Community College, Arkansas City, Kan. (35-0); Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Rapids, Mich. (35-1); Parkland College, Champaign, Ill. (42-7); Iowa Central Community College, Fort Dodge, Iowa (34-10); Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa (37-8); Moraine Valley Community College, Palos Hills, Ill. (35-0); Phoenix College, Phoenix, Ariz. (19-10); Lincoln Land Community College, Springfield, Ill. (31-7); Kansas City Community College, Kansas City, Kan. (30-6); Kishwaukee Community College, Malta, Ill. (30-13); Central Community College, Columbus, Neb. (30-10); Owens Community College, Toledo, Ohio (35-9); Monroe College, New Rochelle, N.Y. (35-5); Catawba Valley Community College, Hickory, N.C. (34-0); Hagerstown Community College, Hagerstown, Md. (24-3), and Northeastern Oklahoma A&M, Miami, Okla. (17-7).

Express volleyball team members include Molly Hilfinger of Whitehouse, setter (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Alyssa Meis of Curtice, outside hitter (Genoa H.S.); Brandi Schimming of Martin, defensive specialist (Genoa H.S.); Kennedy Geyman of Monroe, Mich., defensive specialist/outside hitter (Jefferson H.S.); Tiffani Hobbs of Toledo, rightside hitter (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.); Kenzie Kleinhenz of St. Henry, rightside hitter (St. Henry H.S.); Dakia Sellers of Mansfield, outside hitter/middle blocker (Madison H.S.); Jazmine Thomas of Lima, middle blocker (Lima Senior H.S.); Lisa Urbanski of Toledo, defensive specialist (Notre Dame Academy); Bailey Windham of Monroe, Mich., setter (St. Mary Catholic Central H.S.), and Dominique Yates of Toledo, middle blocker/outside hitter (Bowsher H.S.).

Tickets for the NJCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball National Tournament are $15 (day tournament pass) and $35 (three-day tournament pass). Children under 12 are $5 per day. For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Student Group Aids Hurricane Sandy Victims With Disaster Relief Supply Drive, Nov. 7-13

Posted on November 7th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College students are reaching out to the victims of the hurricane that has devastated the East Coast by organizing a Disaster Relief Supply Drive on the Toledo-area Campus, Nov. 7-13. The supply drive efforts are being coordinating by Owens’ Honors Club.

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

For more information, or to make a donation, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Opens Season Against Henry Ford Community College, Nov. 7

Posted on October 31st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College women’s basketball will look to continue its longstanding tradition of excellence as the Express open its 2012-13 campaign against Henry Ford Community College on Wednesday, Nov. 7. The season opener will begin at 5:30 p.m.

The Owens women’s basketball program is led by ninth-year Head Coach Michael Llanas. Last year, Llanas led the Express to a 25-6 overall record and in second place (10-2) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) standings. Owens, which was ranked No. 7 in the final NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball poll, lost to Sinclair Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

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

“The coaching staff is excited about the upcoming season,” Llanas said. “We return a great group of veterans from a year ago and have added a very talented incoming class of first-year student-athletes. Depth, size and speed will be strengths to this year’s team. However, we have to be focused on getting better each and every day we set foot on the basketball court. If we can do that, a very successful season is good possibility.”

The Express have six players returning from last year’s team, including Emma Ricketts of Waterville (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Uniqua Mitchell of Detroit (Martin Luther King H.S.) and Mackenzie Heacock of Arlington (Arlington H.S.). Last year, Ricketts was an OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention selection. The sophomore forward was second on the team in scoring with a 13.1 points per game average. Ricketts also averaged 6 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game. Mitchell is a sophomore guard and averaged 12.4 points, 6.2 rebounds and 3 assists per game for the Express last season. Her postseason honors included OCCAC All-Conference Second Team. During the 2011-12 season, Heacock averaged 8.8 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. The sophomore guard was named the team’s co-recipient of the Mark Henry Award.

Also returning to Owens are Danielle Bezeau of Swanton (Swanton H.S.), Karahn Scott of Toledo (Scott H.S.) and Bailee Adams of Genoa (Genoa H.S.). A sophomore guard, Bezeau averaged 3.2 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game for the Express. Scott is a sophomore forward and averaged 7.2 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. Additionally, she was named the team’s Most Improved Player. Adams is a sophomore forward and averaged 1.9 points and 2 rebounds for the women’s basketball program last year. Her postseason honors included being named the co-recipient of the Mark Henry Award.

First-year players to the Express women’s basketball program are Jordyn Bond of Romulus, Mich., guard/forward (Romulus H.S.); Nandi Taylor of Mt. Morris, Mich., point guard (Hamady H.S.); Kamilah Carter of Ann Arbor, Mich., point guard (Pioneer H.S.); Eboni Adams of Cleveland, guard (Maple Heights H.S.); Taylor Marks of Flint, Mich., guard/forward (Beecher H.S.); Breonna House of Pontiac, Mich., guard (Pontiac H.S.); Meshia Smith of Pontiac, Mich., forward (Pontiac H.S.), and Malaysha Cammon of Dearborn, Mich., center (Divine Child H.S.).

Owens Community College Closed for Veterans Day Observance, Nov. 12

Posted on October 31st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, will be closed on Monday, Nov. 12 in observance of Veterans Day. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed for business.

Classes will resume and administrative offices will open again on Tuesday, Nov. 13.

Owens Diagnostic Medical Sonography Faculty and Students Collecting Winter Coats for Those Less Fortunate, Nov. 1-29

Posted on October 31st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography faculty and students are reaching out to those in need of coats and apparel during the upcoming winter months by hosting a winter coat drive, Nov. 1-29.

According to Perry, the initiative began when she celebrated her 50th birthday six years ago. Her family asked what she wanted for her birthday, which is Dec. 1, and she told them that she is blessed to have everything that she could ever want or need in her life. For that reason, Perry told her family that she wanted to help others and “Susie’s Coats” became a reality.

“I was once homeless as a child and on the receiving end of a red coat with shiny buttons,” explained Perry. “I never forgot the generosity. I am honored, along with my family and the Owens family, to pay it forward and help others who are in need of warm winter clothing.”

Perry added, “It is really rewarding to see our students giving back to the communities that they will one day serve. Sonography is a health career that involves working directly with patients and their families and this program provides a great service learning experience.”

Beginning Thursday, Nov. 1, the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Department will accept a variety of new and gently used winter jackets and coats, as well as hats, gloves, scarves and mittens. Donations can be dropped off from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Bicentennial Hall Room 166 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

All collected donations will then be delivered at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday (Dec. 1and 8) to those less fortunate by Owens faculty and students at the corner of North Michigan and Adams streets in downtown Toledo from a trailer donated by Toledo Harley-Davidson in Toledo. Owens representatives will be distributing items until 11:30 a.m. both days.

For more information, or to donate, call (567) 661-7560 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7560.

Owens Express Women’s Volleyball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Nov. 2-4

Posted on October 31st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The Owens Community College women’s volleyball team will look to advance to their eighth national tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII District E Women’s Championship this weekend. The tournament will be held at Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, Mich., Friday-Sunday, Nov. 2-4.

Coached by Sonny Lewis, the Express will take a 31-9 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play against the Schoolcraft College (19-13)/Oakland Community College (21-8) winner at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3 in semifinal action. If they would advance, the Express will play in the winner’s bracket finals at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3. The championship match will occur at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 4.

Teams participating in the tournament include Owens, Schoolcraft, Oakland, Macomb Community College (10-16), Columbus State Community College (24-7-1), St. Clair County Community College (17-18) and Mott Community College (19-3).

On Friday (Oct. 26), the Express women’s volleyball team captured the outright Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season championship with a victory over Columbus State Community College (25-21, 17-25, 25-23, 25-21). Owens has won 12 out of the last 13 OCCAC regular season championships. Lewis’ squad finished 12-0 in the OCCAC regular season standings and is ranked No. 17 in the latest NJCAA Division II volleyball regular season poll.

Owens will serve as host to the upcoming NJCAA Division II National Championship, which will take place Nov. 15-17 in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

Owens Student Groups Aid Hurricane Sandy Victims With Disaster Relief Supply Drive, Oct. 30 – Nov. 7

Posted on October 30th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Owens Community College students are reaching out to the victims of the hurricane that has devastated the East Coast by organizing a Disaster Relief Supply Drive on the Findlay-area Campus, Oct. 30 – Nov. 7. The supply drive efforts are being coordinating by Owens’ Beta Xi Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and Findlay Rotaract Club.

Items being collected include bottled water, blankets, sleeping bags, tarps, paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, mops, brooms, dustpans, shovels, rakes, box fans, shop vacuums, snow shovels, cleaning supplies, personal care items, first aid supplies and pet supplies, among other items.

“With the widespread impact that this storm has and will have for many weeks, if not longer, Owens Community College is encouraging individuals to join several student groups in supporting the Findlay-area Campus’ Disaster Relief Supply Drive or any other charitable cause specific to the relief efforts,” said James Katzner, Owens Manager of Student Activities on the Findlay-area Campus.

Area residents can drop off their charitable donations on the Findlay-area Campus in the College’s Atrium area. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

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

For more information, or to make a donation, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Community College Express Men’s Basketball Opens Season Against Morton College, Nov. 2

Posted on October 30th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College men’s basketball will begin its 2012-13 campaign with a season-opening contest against Morton College at the Triton College Tournament in River Grove, Ill. on Friday, Nov. 2. The game will begin at 6 p.m.

The Express will open its home season against Lorain County Community College on Tuesday, Nov. 6. The start time is 7:30 p.m. Home games will occur in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s basketball program is led by second-year Head Coach David Clarke. His Assistant Coaches are Keith Raine and Carl Thomas. Owens finished the 2011-12 season with a 24-8 overall record and a 9-3 mark (second place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. The Express lost to Lakeland Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“Expectations are high for this year,” stated Clarke. “We have a great group of veterans and an extremely talented group of incoming freshmen that are playing very well as a team during the preseason. Our depth is a huge advantage as we expect to use a lot of players off the bench. The men’s basketball student-athletes and coaches are really looking forward to beginning the season and competing for a conference title and a possible trip to the national championship tournament.”

Owens has five returning players, including Justin Edmonds of Albion, Mich. (Albion H.S.), James Kelly of Ann Arbor, Mich. (Pioneer H.S.) and Jay Marquette of Rossford (Central Catholic H.S.). During the 2011-12 season, Edmonds earned NJCAA All-Region XII First Team and OCCAC All-Conference First Team honors. The sophomore guard averaged 18.8 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists for the Express. Kelly, a sophomore forward, averaged 17.5 points, 9.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks during the season. Additionally, he was an OCCAC All-Conference Second Team selection. Marquette is a sophomore guard and averaged 5.5 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists last year.

Clarke’s team also includes returning sophomores Franklin Lindsey of Toledo, guard (Whitmer H.S.) at 4.8 points and 3.8 rebounds per game and Kelvin Clark of Chicago, guard (Bogan H.S.) at 4.3 points and 2.3 rebounds per game.

First-year players at Owens are Andy Bachman of Fort Wayne, Ind., small forward (North Side H.S.); Javon Rice of Dayton, point guard (Dunbar H.S.); Markese Allen of Detroit, point guard (Crockett H.S.); Cody Begley of Tekonsha, Mich., guard (Tekonsha H.S.); Joe Retic II of Fishers, Ind., point guard (Fishers H.S.); Tony Boykins of Kalamazoo, Mich., guard (Loy Norrix H.S.); Reneillio Morrison of Kingston, Jamaica, forward/center (Florida State University H.S.); Darius Washington of Toledo, forward/center (Start H.S.), and Chris Wilson of Danville, Ill., forward (Start H.S.).

Owens Community College Announces Gateway to College Program Spring Application Process

Posted on October 26th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents between the ages of 16 and 21 who are interested in receiving a second chance to realize their fullest academic and career potential are invited to apply for the upcoming 2013 Gateway to College program student class at Owens Community College as the academic institution is now accepting applications for the Spring Semester.

Interested applicants can also receive additional details about the program by attending one of several informational sessions taking place Mondays at 3:30 p.m., Wednesdays at 5 p.m. and Thursdays at 6 p.m. at the College’s Learning Center at The Source through Dec. 13. The Learning Center is located on Monroe Street in downtown Toledo. Each one-hour session will provide additional information about the program and the application process.

In 2011, Owens, in partnership with Toledo Public Schools, was awarded a $325,000 start-up grant from Gateway to College National Network to implement Gateway to College, a nationally recognized dropout recovery program.

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

Up to 150 students from Toledo Public Schools will be served through the program over the next three years. Students must meet specific criteria for entrance into the program and will be dually enrolled at Toledo Public Schools and Owens Community College until they complete their high school diploma. The program is free to students and covers tuition, fees and books, as well as lunch and transportation to the College’s Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo.

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

Students graduate from Gateway to College once they have completed their high school diploma requirements. Nationally, Gateway to College students accrue an average of 35 college credits by the time they graduate from the program, putting them well on their way to earning a college credential.

Fifty students are currently enrolled in the program as part of the first Gateway to College class during the fall term. Owens is one of over 30 community and technical colleges across the country currently offering the Gateway to College program.

Prospective students must reside in the Toledo Public Schools district. Applications are available and must be returned to the College’s Gateway to College Office by Dec. 14. Spring classes begin Jan. 7.

For more information about the Gateway to College program or the informational sessions, call (567) 661-2850 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2850, or e-mail at gateway@owens.edu.

Owens Community College Receives National Sustainability Leadership Award

Posted on October 25th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has been selected as one of only nine colleges and universities nationwide to receive a 2012 Sustainability Leadership Award from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). Now in its seventh year, the AASHE Sustainability Awards program recognizes the exemplary efforts of faculty and staff, campuses and students within the areas of research and leadership specific to advance sustainability.

The College was named the recipient of the Campus Sustainability Case Study Award for its outstanding service learning, campus outreach and sustainability efforts related to the new Community Garden and Owens Harvest Food Pantry initiatives. Both outreach programs were established within the last two years and provide collaborative learning opportunities for students as well as faculty and staff in various academic departments and disciplines. The two initiatives also offer financial help and assistance to students in the form of perishable and non-perishable food resources.

“Sustainability in higher education continues to gain momentum and we are proud to recognize both the veteran as well as the new student leaders in these activities,” said Paul Rowland, Executive Director of AASHE. “Our award winners show us that higher education does make a difference in advancing sustainability and that it can lead the sustainability transformation.”

“Owens Community College is extremely proud to be recognized as a higher educational leader in sustainability by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education,” said Krista Kiessling, Owens Director of Service Learning. “Receiving the Sustainability Leadership Award is quite an honor and certainly affirms the academic institution’s commitment to philanthropy, service and education for our students.”

The winners of the 2012 Sustainability Leadership Awards will be featured in the December issue of “Sustainability: The Journal of Record”. In addition to Owens, other colleges and universities receiving national honors include the University of Tennessee, the University of California, Berkeley, Humboldt State College, the University of Oregon, Alfred State College, Skidmore College, the University of British Columbia and the University of Wisconsin.

AASHE is committed to creating a brighter future of opportunity for all by advancing sustainability in higher education. By creating a diverse community engaged in sharing ideas and promising practices, AASHE provides administrators, faculty, staff and students, as well as the business that serve them, with thought leadership and essential knowledge resources, outstanding opportunities for professional development and a unique framework for demonstrating the value and competitive edge created by sustainability initiatives.

Owens Community College Express Women’s Soccer Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Oct. 27-28

Posted on October 25th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The Owens Community College women’s soccer team will make its second trip to the postseason as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Women’s Soccer Championship this weekend. The tournament will be held at Jackson Community College in Jackson, Mich., Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 27-28.

Led by second-year Head Coach Mary Whisler, the Express will take a 12-2-3 overall record into the four-team single elimination tournament where they will play Muskegon CC (5-6-2) at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27. If they would advance, the Express will play the Schoolcraft College (13-4-2)/Delta College (10-5) winner at 12 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 28 in the championship match.

Whisler’s team finished in first place (9-1-2 record) in the final NJCAA Region XII women’s soccer regular season standings. The Express is ranked No. 14 in the latest NJCAA Division I women’s soccer regular season national poll.

The NJCAA Division I National Championship will be held Nov. 12-17 in Melbourne, Fla.

Owens Express Men’s Soccer Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Oct. 24-28

Posted on October 25th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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 at Grand Haven High School in Grand Haven, Mich., Oct. 24-28.

Coached by Art Johnson, the Express will take a 14-5-1 overall record into the six-team single elimination tournament where they will play the Ancilla College (3-8-3)/Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (13-5-1) winner at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27. The championship match will occur at 12 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 28.

Teams participating in the regional tournament include Owens Community College, Ancilla College, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, Schoolcraft College (14-2-1), Muskegon Community College (10-7-1) and Jackson Community College (8-7-2).

If they should win, the Express will host the NJCAA Region XX champion for the District North Central title and right to advance on to the NJCAA Division I national tournament. The championship match would occur on Saturday, Nov. 3.

Johnson’s team recently captured its first Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (5-1 record) regular season championship in program history.

The NJCAA Division I National Championship will be held Nov. 12-17 in Albany, Ga.

Owens Community College Veterans Services Presents Free Veterans Expo, Nov. 7

Posted on October 25th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Office of Veterans Services will honor American service men and women for their commitment and sacrifice by hosting a free Veterans Expo on Wednesday, Nov. 7.

The Veterans Expo, which is taking place in honor of Veterans Day, will occur from 10 a.m. – 2 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. All activities are free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Serving as the Veterans Expo’s featured speaker is U.S. Army veteran Holly Koester. Koester served in the U.S. Army for 10 years and retired as a Captain after a motor vehicle accident left her paralyzed. She is a paraplegic. As Sports Director for the Paralyzed Veterans of America, Buckeye Chapter, Koester helps her fellow veterans return to the community and introduces them how to remain active in sports and recreation. An avid wheelchair racer, she has completed over 130 marathons and is the first wheelchair racer to complete a marathon in all 50 states. A K-8 substitute school teacher in suburban Cleveland, Koester is accompanied by her service dog and companion, Glory. Koester will speak at 12 p.m. about her own experiences in the military and how helping others has impacted her life.

In addition to the lecture presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to visit with and receive information from several community outreach organizations, including U.S. Marines Toys for Tots, the Toledo Outpatient Clinic OEF/OIF Program, Heroes in Action, Lucas County Veterans Services, Troop and Family Assistance Center, and Gallon, Takacs, Boissoneault and Schaffer Co., L.P.A., among other community groups.

For more information about the Veterans Expo, call (567) 661-8387 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 8387.

Owens Community College Announces ‘The Giving Tree’ Community Outreach Program, Nov. 1-20

Posted on October 24th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College is providing opportunities for area residents to make a difference in their surrounding Northwest Ohio communities by announcing the second annual “The Giving Tree” community outreach program. During the month of November, individuals will have the chance to give back to others through acts of kindness as determined by messages on designated leaves of “The Giving Tree”.

Beginning Thursday, Nov. 1, participants will have the first opportunity to choose a leaf on “The Giving Tree” for their community outreach assignment. Trees will be located in Founders Hall and the College Hall Atrium on the College’s Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College wanted to once again provide an outlet that connects the community to volunteer opportunities and ‘The Giving Tree’ outreach program accomplishes that goal,” said Nicole Buccalo, Owens Student Activities Assistant. “Participants will be able to go up to the tree and choose from one of three colored leaves. Red leaves will be the highest level of giving, orange leaves will be the second highest and yellow leaves will be the lowest level, which will primarily have no cost. Each leaf will have a volunteer task, which ranges from opening the door for someone to donating a toy item for Toys for Tots.”

Buccalo added, “All community outreach tasks are asked to be dropped off in boxes adjacent to “The Giving Tree” locations. At that time, all completed projects will be delivered to their respective community organizations. I encourage local residents to make a difference through small acts of kindness and participate in ‘The Giving Tree’ program.”

Among the organizations participating in “The Giving Tree” community outreach program are the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio, Toys for Tots, Cherry Street Mission Ministries, The Cocoon Shelter, Missions International of America, the United States military, Owens Harvest Food Pantry and the Wood County Humane Society.

For more information about the community outreach program, call (567) 661-2569 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2569.

Owens Community College Announces New Compressed Medical Assisting Degree Program

Posted on October 23rd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College is expanding its educational opportunities within medical assisting by announcing the creation of a new compressed Medical Assisting Associate Degree Program. Beginning Spring Semester 2013, the new compressed program will be offered on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

“Owens Community College is excited to complement our current academic offerings with a new compressed Medical Assisting Associate Degree Program option that provides area residents with an alternative way to pursue a college education,” said Diane Morlock, Owens Interim Chair of Medical Assisting. “Employment opportunities within the medical assisting profession continue to grow as a result of an ever-changing health care industry and Owens is proud to open new doors for students to reach their career goals.”

Owens’ new compressed Medical Assisting Associate Degree Program enables students to complete their associate’s degree in three continuous semesters compared to the traditional five semester program. Academic coursework during the three semesters will be completed as part of four-week, eight-week and 16-week sessions through classroom, laboratory and online learning.

The Medical Assisting Associate Degree Program was established in 2006 with the overall goal of preparing students for careers as medical assistants. Students enrolled in the program are specifically trained to work in ambulatory settings, such as physicians’ offices, clinics and group practices, performing administrative and clinical procedures. Owens’ program, which is offered through the School of Nursing, requires 70 hours of coursework within areas such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, computer applications, medical assisting clinical applications and medical assisting administrative applications, among others. Upon completion of the program, individuals are able to take the national certification exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants.

Owens’ program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board of the American Association of Medical Assistants Endowment.

Owens will host two open houses on the College’s Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses for those individuals interested in learning more about the new compressed program. The open houses will take place on Thursday, Nov. 1 from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Education Center Room 022 on the Findlay-area Campus in Findlay and on Monday, Nov. 5 from 6-7:30 p.m. in Health Technologies Hall Room 307 on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

For additional information about the new compressed Medical Assisting Associate Degree Program, call (567) 661-2539 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2539.

Owens Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery to Showcase Child Care Center Artwork, Oct. 26 – Nov. 7

Posted on October 17th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Children attending Owens Community College’s Child Care Center will display their artistic qualities, creative impressions and imaginative masterpieces as part of the eighth annual Children’s Art Show, Oct. 26 – Nov. 7. This year’s show will be held for the fourth time in Owens’ Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery.

In addition, the College will host an opening reception for the artists on Friday, Oct. 26 from 4-6 p.m. in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. Both the reception and exhibit are free and the public is encouraged to attend. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The College will also host a free lecture presentation by Toledo Museum of Art Director of Education Dr. Kathy Danko-McGhee titled “The Impact of Early Art Experiences” at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 8. The lecture will take place in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Studio Theatre.

Young artists ages 4 months to 5 years old will showcase a variety of works, including multiple 3-D sculptures, paintings, drawings and self-portraits. The art exhibit is the culmination of artistic education at the College’s Child Care Center.

“The Owens Child Care Center Children’s Art Show is an exciting and rewarding time to display the hard work and talents of our children,” said Maribeth Tercha, Owens Manager of the Child Care Center. “These young artists have been anxiously looking forward to showcasing their works of art to family, friends, teachers and the community.”

Tercha added, “Creating an artistic environment where children can express their interests and emotions is an excellent method to broaden a child’s insight and heighten cognitive development.”

The Children’s Art Show was inspired by the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy. The Owens Child Care instructors utilize the Reggio Emilia philosophy in their art curriculum, inviting the children’s interests to guide artistic creations. Books and other literature incorporated into the art education program influenced many of the masterpieces.

Owens’ Child Care Center is focused on providing quality child care for the children of employees, students and the surrounding communities. The program is devoted to enhancing the lives of children through developmentally appropriate curriculum, which is child centered.

Children enrolled in the Owens Child Care Center have the opportunity to interact with the College’s Early Childhood Education students, which provides opportunities for more individual attention. Owens students benefit through practical hands-on lab experiences that deepen their understanding about young children.

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Owens Community College Joins State Program to Enhance First Time Community College Student Success

Posted on October 17th, 2012

Tiffany Steele and Adam Masters will serve as the new AmeriCorps College Completion Coaches at Owens.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has been chosen along with nine other academic institutions in Ohio to help first-time community college students succeed in their academic and career aspirations as part of the new AmeriCorps College Completion Coaches Initiative.

The AmeriCorps College Completion Coaches Initiative is part of a collaborative effort between the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC), the Ohio College Access Network (OCAN) and ServeOhio (Ohio Commision on Service and Volunteerism).

“In this exciting initiative, we are using the leadership skills of recent community college graduates to provide mentoring and coaching to community college students, many of whom are first-generation college students,” said Dr. Ronald Abrams, President of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges, which represents the 23 community colleges in Ohio. “These ‘coaches’ will provide their students with the support needed to create their educational completion plan, and then mentor them through challenges they may encounter as they move ahead through their plan.”

More than 20 recent community college graduates will serve as coaches at 10 Ohio community colleges. Each coach will provide assistance to a cohort of 100 students who are first-time community college students, enrolled in developmental education courses and Pell-eligible. The coaches will be responsible for helping their student cohort in completing their developmental courses and then helping them to enroll in college-level credit courses. Additionally, coaches will serve as a support system for the students and assist them in progressing through their completion plan.

Serving as AmeriCorps College Completion Coaches at Owens are Adam Masters of Bowling Green and Tiffany Steele of Bowling Green. Masters recently earned his associate’s degree from Owens, while Steele obtained both her associate’s and bachelor’s degrees from Bowling Green State University. Masters is currently pursuing his bachelor’s degree in business management at Bowling Green and Steele is enrolled in the University of Toledo’s master’s degree program in recreational administration.

“Owens Community College is honored to be chosen to participate in the new AmeriCorps College Completion Coaches Initiative,” said Karen Shultz, Owens Manager of Testing Services, who will oversee the College’s AmeriCorps College Completion Coaches Initiative. “This program will provide additional student support service to complement advising, career services, tutoring, classroom instruction and other services on campus.”

She added, “Adam and Tiffany will be working with students individually and through workshops on both the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as at the Learning Center at The Source, to help connect them to services on campus to enhance student success. Often new students can find it difficult to navigate different resources to be successful. The coaches will enable students to navigate for success.”

Ohio community colleges participating in the program include Owens Community College, Columbus State Community College, Cuyahoga Community College, Hocking College, Lakeland Community College, North Central State College, Northwest State Community College, Southern State Community College, Terra Community College and Zane State Community College.

The Ohio Association of Community Colleges and the Ohio College Access Network recently entered into a partnership to develop and implement the AmeriCorps College Completion initiative, combining the expertise and mutual goals of both organizations to make an impact on college success in Ohio. The collaboration received a $287,842 grant for the first year of a three-year grant cycle from ServeOhio, Ohio’s Governor-appointed Commission on Service and Volunteerism, which is focused on addressing Ohio’s critical economic challenges by administering AmeriCorps funding in target areas of education, opportunity, healthy futures, veterans, environmental stewardship and disaster services.

Owens Environmental Club to Host Shoe Collection Drive, Oct. 17-31

Posted on October 17th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Environmental Club is encouraging area residents to bring their used shoes, previously destined for the overcrowded landfills, to the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses in support of environmental awareness as the student group hosts a Shoe Collection Drive, Oct. 17-31.

“Owens Community College is proud to provide an outlet in which area residents can donate their worn-out shoes, previously bound for dumpsters and landfills,” said Brad Fields of Toledo, Owens student and Environmental Club President. “I encourage individuals to help in supporting the environment by dropping off their shoes.”

The shoe collection drive initiative is part of a collaborative effort with USAgain. Founded in 1999, the environmental organization is committed to providing consumers with a convenient and eco-friendly option to rid themselves of excess clothing, which is then diverted from landfills for recycling or resale in the United States as well as abroad.

At the collection drive’s conclusion, all shoes will be presented to Erek Hansen of Curtice to assist with his personal goal of promoting environmental conservation and awareness. Earlier this year, the Environmental Club presented over 500 denim materials to Hansen as part of a collection drive initiative with the “COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN. ®” program.

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

Owens has set up a variety of collection points around the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Area residents can drop off their shoes on the Toledo-area Campus at the Student Health and Activities Center and the College Hall Bookstore. On the Findlay-area Campus, collection points are in the College’s Atrium area.

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

Owens Community College Literacy Committee Welcomes Nationally-Known Author Nick Flynn, Oct. 23

Posted on October 16th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will celebrate and promote the importance of literacy by inviting area residents to hear nationally-known author Nick Flynn discuss his personal struggles through life as part of a free lecture discussion on Tuesday, Oct. 23.

Presented by the Literacy Committee, Flynn will speak at 11 a.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus and at 3 p.m. in the Community Education and Wellness Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. Admission to the events is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

Flynn’s personal story about his relationship with his father, Jonathan, known as a con man, alcoholic and self-proclaimed poet, has earned critical acclaim, both as a book and film titled “Being Flynn”. The book and film detail how Jonathan disappears from Flynn’s life for the better part of 20 years and suddenly reappears at a homeless shelter in Boston where Flynn is employed. Flynn struggles with the new father-son relationship, which is compounded by Jonathan’s reputation as a con man and alcoholic.

In addition to his career as a writer, Flynn is a playwright and a poet. His most recent play is titled “Alice Invents a Little Game and Alice Always Wins”. Flynn is also the author of the book “The Ticking is The Bomb” and three books of poetry “Blind Huber”, “The Captain Asks for a Show of Hands” and “Some Ether”, which won the inaugural PEN/Joyce Osterweil Award for Poetry in 1999.

His accomplishments include being awarded fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, the Library of Congress, the Amy Lowell Trust and the Fine Arts Work Center. Some of the venues his poems, essays and non-fiction work have appeared include “The New Yorker”, the “Paris Review” and National Public Radio’s “This American Life” show. Additionally, Flynn has worked as a “field poet” and an artistic collaborator on the documentary film “Darwin’s Nightmare”, which won an Academy Award in 2006. He also teaches at the University of Houston.

For more information about the lecture, call (567) 661-2987 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2987.

Pinning Ceremony Honors Practical Nursing Certificate Students at Owens

Posted on October 16th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Over 20 Owens Community College students were recently bestowed honorary pins by the Nursing Department for their academic achievements specific to practical nursing during a recent ceremony. The pinning ceremony is part of a traditional nursing practice, which honors students prior to beginning their careers within the health care community.

Nursing students receiving their honorary pins include Angela Adams of Toledo, Diona Brown of Toledo, Michael Carr of Swanton, Tiffany Carter of Toledo, Melissa Clinard of Rossford, Erica Davenport of Walbridge, Jana Detrick of Toledo, Amber Dunbar of Toledo, Jennifer Guzman of Findlay, Jennifer Isbell of Oregon, Candace Jewell of Toledo, Brittany Joly of Toledo, Brittany Lasher of Curtice, Christopher Lender of Millbury, Lei Liu of Perrysburg, Melissa McGee of Toledo, Kelly McGinnis of Genoa, Siddhi Patel of Pikeville, Ky., Keon Ruplinger of Delta, Amy Snider of Findlay, Michael Thieman of Toledo, Charles Thuita of Sylvania and Suzanne Weyer of Findlay.

Owens Community College’s Student Government Offers Free ‘Halloween Alternative’ for Area Children, Oct. 26

Posted on October 10th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Friendly ghosts, skeletons and witches will abound as Owens Community College serves as host to a variety of free games and activities as part of its seventh annual “Halloween Alternative” for children ages 12 and under on Friday, Oct. 26.

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 Director of Student Involvement. “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 puppets 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.

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 meet the needs of Owens’ student body and the surrounding communities.

For more information, call (567) 661-2569 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2569.

Owens Findlay-area Campus to Host ‘Discover Owens Week’, Oct. 15-20

Posted on October 10th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Area residents are invited to learn about and explore the many educational programs, services and resources available at Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus as the academic institution serves as host to “Discover Owens Week”, Oct. 15-20.

All events are free and open to the public and will take place on the College’s Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on 3200 Bright Road in Findlay. Attendees must register in advance for several “Discover Owens Week” events.

Activities will commence on Monday, Oct. 15 as the Findlay-area Campus hosts Explore Owens. The informational session will begin at 5 p.m. in the Education Center Atrium and provide insight into such topics as admissions and the registration process, placement testing, and student activities and resources, among other areas.

Other events taking place during “Discover Owens Week” include New Student Orientation sessions on Tuesday, Oct. 16 from 1-4 p.m. and on Friday, Oct. 19 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the Education Center Atrium. The two interactive orientation sessions are designed to provide attendees with a variety of information focused on student success.

On Wednesday, Oct. 17, area high school students will have the opportunity to receive a taste of college life as the College presents Experience Owens Day. The event will occur from 4-7 p.m. with registration in the Education Center Atrium and provide prospective students and their families with the chance to learn about such educational services as admissions, financial aid, advising, disability services and career services. Additionally, prospective students can pre-register to sit in on a class and experience what it is like to attend college during the Experience Owens Day.

Area residents are also invited to hear the insightful words of national diversity advocate T.J. Leyden as he takes attendees on a personal journey through his life-changing transformation from a racist to an advocate for the importance of diversity and cultural appreciation as part of a free lecture presentation titled “Turning Away from Hate” at the Owens Findlay-area Campus on Thursday, Oct. 18. The lecture will begin at 11 a.m. in the College’s Conference Center.

“Discover Owens Week” activities will conclude on Saturday, Oct. 20 as the College hosts Adult Student Day from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the Education Center Atrium. Area residents will have the opportunity to learn about potential challenges of entering college as a non-traditional student, the college transition, the enrollment process and financial aid, among other topics. Additionally, attendees can either participate in the College’s New Student Orientation or meet with Owens Career Services representatives and receive insight about resume writing and career exploration.

For more information about the week’s activities, call (567) 429-3656 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3656. Or, check out the Owens website at www.owens.edu/discoverowensweek/.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Presents National Diversity Advocate T.J. Leyden, Oct. 18

Posted on October 10th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Area residents are invited to hear the insightful words of national diversity advocate T.J. Leyden as he takes attendees on a personal journey through his life-changing transformation from a racist to an advocate for the importance of diversity and cultural appreciation as part of a free lecture presentation titled “Turning Away from Hate” at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus on Thursday, Oct. 18.

The lecture will begin at 11 a.m. in the College’s Conference Center 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.

Leyden grew up in a close-knit Irish-Catholic family in Fontana, Calif. Life began to unravel for him when his parents divorced, and he began listening to punk rock and venting his rage by slam-dancing and fighting at weekend concerts. His violent behavior attracted the attention of local skinheads and soon he started his own skinhead group in Redlands, Calif. At age 21, Leyden joined the U.S. Marines and his role as a leading recruiter, organizer and propagandist for the white supremacist movement increased. He spent more than 15 years as a leader in the neo-Nazi movement, even marrying a woman deeply committed to the movement and raising two young sons in a hate-filled environment.

Today, Leyden has turned away from the hatred that defined his life. He is one of the few known former skinheads who has left the movement and retained his own name. Leyden worked for more than five years at the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles teaching on the culture of hate and the importance in fighting back against it. Additionally, he was invited by U.S. President Bill Clinton to serve as the featured speaker at the White House Conference on Hate and has trained at the Pentagon, the FBI, military bases and for numerous law enforcement agencies. Leyden also has testified against individuals on trial for hate crimes and has received death threats as a result of his advocacy efforts.

For additional information about the free lecture, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Lends Helping Hand to Needy Local Residents With Coat Drive, Oct. 8 – Nov. 1

Posted on October 5th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – The Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Student Nurses’ Association and the Child Care Center are reaching out to area residents in need of help by partnering with Findlay’s Chopin Hall and hosting a coat collection drive, Oct. 8 – Nov. 1.

Beginning Monday, Oct. 8, the Findlay-area Campus will accept a variety of new and gently used winter jackets or coats. The donation drive will run through Nov. 1. All collected donations will then be delivered to Findlay’s Chopin Hall and given to needy families as part of the organization’s outreach efforts.

“There many people throughout the surrounding region who are in need of assistance, whether the help comes in the form of a coat or other basic needs,” said James Katzner, Owens Manager of Student Activities and Conduct on the Findlay-area Campus. “Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus is proud to help Chopin Hall in their efforts to impact the lives of others in a positive 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 Child Care Center, the Nursing Laboratory or the Atrium 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 has grown and 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 clothing drive, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Community College and Penta Career Center Announce New Dual Enrollment Partnership

Posted on October 4th, 2012

Owens and Penta representatives pose for a photo during the Dual Enrollment announcement event. Individuals include (L to R) Penta student Zach Reecer, Owens President Dr. Mike Bower, Penta Superintendent Ronald Matter, Penta student Kayleigh Artiaga and Penta student Mike Jablonowski.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College and Penta Career Center have entered into an agreement that enables junior and senior students at Penta to earn transcripted college credit from Owens. As a result of this initiative, more than 80 percent of Penta’s programs will offer transcripted college credit opportunities through Owens. Currently 445 Penta students have submitted applications for dual enrollment with Owens.

“We are very proud to have established this agreement with Owens Community College because it provides our students with a valuable opportunity to get a head start on college while still in high school,” said Ronald Matter, Superintendent of Penta Career Center. “By offering transcripted credits through Owens, students will be meeting state approved high school and college curriculum requirements simultaneously by successfully completing their career-technical coursework at Penta.”

“Owens Community College is proud to further strengthen our longstanding partnership with Penta Career Center and announce the establishment of a new dual enrollment agreement which enhances learning opportunities for students,” said Dr. Mike Bower, President of Owens Community College. “Penta Career Center is known throughout the Northwest Ohio region for its commitment to academic excellence and Owens Community College looks forward to working with them on the new dual enrollment initiative and many future programs that can open doors to educational opportunities.”

The dual enrollment initiative between Penta and Owens is unique because it provides transcripted college credits to Penta students. This means the credits are documented on a student’s official school transcript which they can use at Owens and other colleges and universities (at the discretion of the other institutions). Transcripted credits reduce time to degree completion, and are a financial benefit for students. There are no costs for students to participate in dual enrollment.

For more information, about the dual enrollment agreement between Penta Career Center and Owens Community College, contact Susan Short, Supervisor of Curriculum, Testing and Teaching Professions at Penta Career Center at (419) 661-6496 or Joe Carone, Manager of Dual Enrollment Partnerships at Owens Community College at (567) 661-7190.

Penta Career Center serves high school students from the following school districts: Anthony Wayne, Benton-Carroll-Salem, Bowling Green, Eastwood, Elmwood, Genoa, Lake, Maumee, North Baltimore, Northwood, Otsego, Perrysburg, Rossford, Springfield, Swanton and Woodmore. Penta offers more than 30 different career-training programs that prepare students for entry-level positions in hundreds of occupational fields or for post-secondary education. Penta also serves the training needs of adults in the surrounding communities through its Adult & Continuing Education Division. For more information, visit www.pentacareercenter.org.

Owens Community College to Host NJCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball National Tournament, Nov. 15-17

Posted on October 2nd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The top 16 community college volleyball teams from across the country will once again converge on Northwest Ohio this fall as Owens Community College serves as host venue for the 2012 NJCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball National Championship Tournament, Nov. 15-17.

Sixteen NJCAA Division II teams from across the country will compete in the double elimination consolation tournament. All matches will occur 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 serving as host, the Owens women’s volleyball team will look to advance to the NJCAA Division II National Championship tournament. The Express has participated in two Division II and five Division III national tournaments. Owens finished third in 1998, 1999 and 2000.

The 2012 edition of the women’s volleyball program has amassed a record of 20-5 and is 8-0 (first place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. Lead by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, the Express is ranked No. 5 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball national poll.

Northwest Ohio to Feature 11 Sites During Annual Green Energy Ohio Tour, Oct. 4-7

Posted on October 1st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area “green” enthusiasts interested in expanding their knowledge about green energy are invited to participate in Green Energy Ohio’s 10th annual Green Energy Ohio Tour, Thursday-Sunday, Oct. 4-7. “Green Energy Tours” in hundreds of locations throughout Ohio will showcase solar, wind, biomass and energy efficiency working for homes, businesses, farms, public buildings and utilities.

Presented by Green Energy Ohio, open house tours will be held in the Northeast, Northwest, Central, Southwest and Southeast regions of Ohio. Open house tours in the Northwest Ohio region are self-guided and guided and will take place at 11 designated sites in Van Wert, Tiffin, Upper Sandusky, Archbold, Pettisville, Perrysburg, Lima, Maumee and Oregon, among others. Site owners and Green Energy Ohio members will conduct the open house and guided tours. All tours, which will occur at various specified times, are free and open to the public.

Northwest Ohio’s 11 open house sites will feature photovoltaic, wind, solar thermal and passive solar, among other alternative energy technology. Among the regional sites are the Cooper Farms (13274 Convoy Rd., Van Wert) (wind) on Oct. 4 from 2-4 p.m.; Toledo Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (803 Lime City Rd., Rossford) (wind) on Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Little Portion Green (194 St. Francis Ave., Tiffin) (photovoltaic, wind and passive solar) on Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and on Oct. 7 from 1-4 p.m.; Wyandot Solar Farm (10692 County Highway 44, Upper Sandusky) (photovoltaic) on Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus (30335 Oregon Rd., Perrysburg) (photovoltaic, solar thermal and wind) on Oct. 6 from 1-4 p.m.; Archbold Area Schools (600 Lafayette St., Archbold) (wind) on Oct. 6 from 1-2 p.m.; Pettisville Local Schools (232 Summit St., Pettisville) (wind) on Oct. 6 from 2-3 p.m.; Farley Residence (10494 Mandell Rd., Perrysburg) (photovoltaic) on Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and on Oct. 7 from 1-4 p.m.; Gerad Residence (77 Hawthorne Dr., Lima) (photovoltaic) on Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and on Oct. 7 from 1-4 p.m.; Haney Residence (2112 River Rd., Maumee) (photovoltaic, solar thermal and passive solar) on Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Mcintosh Residence (551 Foxridge Lane, Oregon) (photovoltaic) on Oct. 7 from 1-4 p.m.

Additionally, a guided tour of several green energy-specific locations will take place within the Toledo area from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6. The Toledo-area tour will begin and end on Owens’ Toledo-area Campus. Green Energy Ohio Tour participants should park in Lot H and meet at the College’s wind turbines at 8:45 a.m., which are adjacent to the Industrial and Engineering Technologies Building. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Green Energy Ohio Tour is being presented by Green Energy Ohio, Ohio Development Services Agency and Zane State College.

Green Energy Ohio is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting environmentally and economically sustainable energy policies and practices in Ohio. The organization is the Ohio Chapter of the American Solar Energy Society and also sponsors conferences, workshops, workforce training and assesses potential for wind turbines sites across the state.

The Northwest Ohio site is being coordinated by Owens Community College. For additional information about the Green Energy Ohio Tour, call (614) 985-6131, or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7163 or (567) 661-7163.Individual can also find details about the specific sites by accessing Green Energy Ohio’s website at www.greenenergyohio.org.

Owens Reschedules Clothing Swap Outreach Event for Oct. 16

Posted on October 1st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College clothing swap event “Swap-It-Up” originally scheduled for Oct. 2 will now take place on Tuesday, Oct. 16.

The clothing swap is being presented by the College’s Student Activities Office and will occur from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The daylong event is free and open to the public.

Attendees are encouraged to bring gently used, folded clothing of all sizes for adult men and women to the community outreach event. Items being accepted as part of the “Swap-It-Up” initiative are T-shirts, pants, dresses, ties, dress shirts, blue jeans, skirts, shoes, jackets, coats, sweatpants and sweatshirts, among other items.

All donated items must be freshly laundered and the clothing swap is not accepting clothing with visible stains, holes, broken zippers and missing buttons. Individuals will be given a ticket voucher for each item donated to the “Swap-It-Up” event. The ticket voucher will enable attendees to choose from the already donated clothing selection.

Any items not claimed during the clothing swap event will be donated to Cherry Street Mission Ministries.

For more information about the clothing swap event, call (567) 661-2994 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2994.

Owens Community College Accepting Applications for Spring Police Academy Program

Posted on October 1st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Students considering a career in law enforcement can pursue such an opportunity at Owens Community College as the academic institution is now accepting applications for the upcoming spring Basic Peace Officer Academy Training Program on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

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 have been 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, the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, 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.

All requirements of the Ohio Revised Code and Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission must be met for certification. Application packets must be requested by Oct. 6. Applications for fall academy classes should be completed and returned to the College during the week of Nov. 5-9. Fall police academy program classes begin in January.

For more information, or to obtain an application packet, call (567) 661-7439 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7439.

Owens to Provide Free Home Energy Efficiency Workshops Through Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Grant in October

Posted on September 28th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has been selected by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency to receive a $4,314 environmental education grant to enhance the energy efficiency of homes through free educational workshops within Northwest Ohio. The College in collaboration with United North and the East Toledo Family Center will offer four environmental sustainability workshops to area residents in October.

“Owens Community College is very appreciative to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency for selecting the academic institution as a grant recipient,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Associate Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “We look forward to partnering with United North and the East Toledo Family Center and provide educational workshops in which attendees can learn about ways to make their homes more energy efficient through environmental conscious techniques, which will result in energy-cost savings for homeowners.”

The free educational seminar, titled “Upgrading Your Home’s Energy Efficiency”, is designed to provide attendees with techniques to lower home energy costs through environmentally conscience activities. The four-hour, hands-on workshops, taught by Owens instructors, will provide insight into such topics as energy audits, prioritization of energy loses, insulation, sealing air leaks, heating and cooling systems, duct sealing, windows and lighting from an energy efficiency perspective.

Additionally, class participants will have the opportunity to participate in caulking and sealing and heat shrink window installation exercises, among many other hands-on activities. Attendees will also receive a home energy savings kit for use in their own home.

The first two workshops will take place Tuesday, Oct. 16 and Thursday, Oct. 18 at the Chester J. Zablocki Senior Center on Lagrange Street in Toledo. Both classes will occur from 5-9 p.m. Owens’ free educational seminars will also be held Tuesday, Oct. 23 and Thursday, Oct. 25 at the East Toledo Family Center on Varland Avenue in Toledo. The two workshops will take place from 5-9 p.m. Attendees must register prior to the workshops and space is limited.

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Office of Environmental Education administers the Ohio Environmental Education Fund, awarding approximately $1 million in grants for projects targeting kindergarten- through college-age students, the general public and the regulated community. The office also administers the Ohio Clean Diesel School Bus Fund, the Diesel Emission Reduction Grant program, a scholarship program for university students in environmental science and engineering, and a series of recycling grants for the Division of Materials and Waste Management.

For more information, or to register for a seminar, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

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

Posted on September 28th, 2012

“Owens Community College’s Gamma Zeta Chapter of Chi Alpha Epsilon is extremely honored and proud to recognize the academic achievements of students who enter college through non-traditional criteria,” said Sharon Badenhop, Owens 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.”

ShaRhonda Barbour of Toledo (occupational therapy assistant)

Jennifer Basinger of Northwood (pre-business administration)

Loral Browning of Toledo (financial services sales)

Erica Davenport of Walbridge (licensed practical nursing)

Dawn Davis of Toledo (business management technology)

Jodi Dlugoleski of Perrysburg (medical assisting)

Sondra Garbers of Delta (accounting technology)

Kathleen Gerity of Whitehouse (information systems technology)

Alma Gomez of Toledo (pre-radiologic technology)

Moriah Gromer of Toledo (criminal justice technology)

Monica Hartman of Toledo (commercial art technology)

Ashley Hileman of Napoleon (pre-business administration)

Robin Hoffman of Dunbridge (CAD technology)

David Jaime of Holland (business management technology)

Trista Kitts of Toledo (diagnostic medical sonography)

Rachel Knott of Maumee (multi-age education)

Roxanne Lehman of Findlay (accounting technology)

Cori Lucio of Toledo (business management technology)

Duane Malanchuk of Toledo (e-business technology)

Adam Masters of Perrysburg (massage therapy technology)

Steve Mikoleski of Sylvania (networking and information systems support)

Marquetta Modisett of Toledo (early childhood education technology)

Kelsy Nagle of Sylvania (criminal justice technology)

Kimberly Nieset of Fostoria (medical assisting)

Michelle Pierce of Oregon (baking and pastry)

Malinda Rosenbrook of Toledo (early childhood education technology)

Lora Routzon of Findlay (registered nursing)

Nisha Saeed of Toledo (radiologic technology)

Erin Schatzle of Monroe, Mich. (early childhood education)

Shelly Steinmetz of Wharton (early childhood education technology)

Nikoy Wallace of Northwood (diesel technology)

Alexis Westphal of Maumee (pre-nursing)

Caroline Young of Toledo (criminal justice technology)

Nuhad Zeitoun of Oregon (medical assisting)

Heather Zimmerman of Toledo (licensed practical nursing)

Shelbi Beaupre of McClure (radiologic technology)

Sean Binkley of Toledo (nuclear medicine)

Debra Bourn of Toledo (criminal justice technology)

Terry Burkhead of Toledo (pre-business administration)

Heather Cavallaro of Lambertville, Mich. (medical assisting)

Juan Chapa Jr. of Monclova (diesel technology)

Tirzah Davis of Toledo (registered nursing)

Steven Dickens of Oregon (biomedical electronics)

Myron Draime of Northwood (electrical)

Tiffany Finch of Holland (criminal justice technology)

Dana Frederick of Toledo (associate of arts general concentration)

Leesa Frost of Woodville (computer programming technology)

Kathleen Gerity of Whitehouse (information systems technology)

Jo Ellen Gross of Findlay (medical office support)

Teri Hansen of Toledo (pre-nursing)

James Howard of Toledo (business management technology)

Margaret Ingram of Toledo (registered nursing)

Jerry Isom of Toledo (commercial art technology)

Karen Jackson of Toledo (pre-surgical)

Pamela Johnson of Findlay (office administration technology)

Katlyn Keller of Perrysburg (occupational therapy assistant)

Katrina King of Cygnet (business management technology)

Carol Kopp of Maumee (medical assisting)

Ruth Kuohn of Toledo (medical office support)

Kevin Leemaster of Fostoria (biomedical electronics)

Sasha Lindhorst of Toledo (occupational therapy assistant)

Deanna Lopez of Toledo (office administration technology)

Michelle Lozoya of Curtice (psychology)

LaRhonda McCoy of Toledo (small business management technology)

Melissa Milazzo of Oregon (early childhood education technology)

Tabitha Mixon of Toledo (pre-nursing)

Brittany Morris of Northwood (radiologic technology)

Davina Pettaway of Toledo (criminal justice technology)

Linda Pina of Arcadia (office administration technology)

Andrew Pinciotti of Millbury (commercial art technology)

Heidi Pocock of New Riegel (registered nursing)

Mary Puterbaugh of Toledo (culinary arts)

Perla Ruiz-Santiago of Toledo (early childhood education technology)

Samar Saleh of Toledo (associate of science general concentration)

Debra Shannak of Perrysburg (office administration technology)

Toni Shultz-Heilman of Vanlue (criminal justice technology)

Kathy Smith of Fostoria (accounting technology)

Melissa Steinmetz of Republic (pre-pharmacy)

Judy Stewart of Oregon (occupational therapy assistant)

Kristi Tiell of Toledo (pre-medical imaging)

April Tiell of Arcadia (small business management technology)

Arthur Traxler of Toledo (pre-massage therapy)

Maria Trease of Toledo (early childhood education)

Robert Vidra of Maumee (CAD technology)

Adam Vitek of Findlay (computer programming technology)

Rhonda Wells of Findlay (licensed practical nursing)

Dawn Williamson of Benton Ridge (accounting technology)

Krissada Wongsa of Perrysburg (automotive technology)

Elizabeth Yeager of Toledo (culinary arts)

Owens Concert Band to Host Fall Concert Featuring Toledo School for the Arts, Oct. 14

Posted on September 27th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited listen to array of musical selections ranging from Broadway Show songs to patriotic- and pop culture- themed numbers as the Owens Community College Concert Band presents its annual Fall Concert on Sunday, Oct. 14.

Selections presented by the Owens Concert Band, which is comprised of Owens students and employees and community members, will include songs from “The Jersey Boys” and “Star Trek Thru the Years” as well as “An American Fanfare”, “Southwest Saga”, “In the Mood” and “Sabre and Spurs”, among many others.

In addition, the Toledo School for the Arts Studio Winds will join the Owens Concert Band on stage to perform the music selections “American Salute”, “New York: 1927”, “Moravian Dance” and “The Center Ring”. Sharing the conducting duties for the combined bands will include Toledo School for the Arts Director Jay Welnec, Owens Adjunct Instructor in Fine and Performing Arts and Concert Band Conductor Fred Dais and retired Commander of the 555th Air Force Band Lt. Col. Robert Krichbaum.

For more information about the Fall Concert, contact the College’s Fine and Performing Arts Department at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Alumni Association Golf Outing Raises Over $27,700 in Support of Scholarships

Posted on September 26th, 2012

The championship team of the four-person scramble was sponsored by Owens Athletics. Team members included (L to R) Chris Lieber, Charlie Upchurch, Josh Williams and Jon Moyer.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – One hundred sixteen area residents recently enjoyed a day of golf and entertainment in support of alumni scholarship programs as Owens Community College’s Alumni Association held its tenth annual Golf Classic. The 29-team event netted over $27,700 to benefit scholarship endeavors.

Since its inception, the Owens event has netted over $288,800 to support Owens students pursuing a college education and their career aspirations.

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

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

The championship team of the four-person scramble was sponsored by Owens Athletics. Team members included Chris Lieber of Toledo, Charlie Upchurch of Maumee, Josh Williams of Perrysburg and Jon Moyer of Arcadia.

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

Owens Findlay-area Campus Presents Motivational Speaker Hector Manley, Oct. 3

Posted on September 26th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Area residents are invited to hear the inspirational words of motivational speaker Hector Manley as he takes attendees on a personal journey through the many obstacles and successes in his life as part of a free lecture presentation at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus on Wednesday, Oct. 3.

Presented in conjunction with the College’s celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, the lecture will begin at 12 p.m. in the College’s Conference Center 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.

Born and raised in a small village in El Salvador, Manley enjoyed a typical childhood. However, in 2001, his life was forever changed as one of the largest earthquakes in the country’s history shook El Salvador. At the time of the earthquake, Manley was playing near a ravine where garbage was burning, and as the ground shook, he fell into the burning ravine.

Manley suffered third degree burns on 70 percent of his body, resulting in the amputation of both legs. After spending four months at a children’s hospital in San Salvador, he met a group of Rotarians who brought him to the United States for further medical treatment.

Eleven years later, Manley’s life is full of hope and promise, which includes recently graduating from the University of Tampa. Manley also is an avid golfer and has introduced many children to the game of golf through the First Tee Foundation. Additionally, he has a passion for adventure and being a double amputee has not stopped him from skydiving, scuba diving, hang gliding or whitewater rafting.

This past summer, Manley kayaked the Mississippi River from its source in Minnesota to its mouth in New Orleans as part of a fundraising campaign titled “Paddling for a Purpose”. Funds generated from the trip benefited the Wounded Warrior Project as well as the Wheelchair Foundation.

His future plans include writing a book about his life and undertaking many other adventures that inspire people with obstacles and barriers in their daily lives.

For additional information about the free lecture, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Features Exhibit by Jodi Wasinski, Oct. 1 – Nov. 16

Posted on September 25th, 2012

The Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery is featuring several works by artist Jodi Wasinski, including the artistic expression titled “First Snow”.

FINDLAY, Ohio – Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery continues its fall art exhibition season with the works of regional artist Jodi Wasinski. The exhibit, titled “Gallery of Opportunity”, will showcase Wasinski’s unique process of blending image, ink and handmade paper into masterful prints and artistic expressions, Oct. 1 – Nov. 16.

In addition to the exhibit, the College will also host a reception and gallery talk with Wasinski on Tuesday, Oct. 2 from 5-7 p.m. The reception, which are free and open to the public, will take place in the Findlay-area Campus Library located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Community College is proud to showcase the work of an artist whose prints continue to evolve as a result her talent and willingness to stretch the boundaries of the printmaking process,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “Jodi Wasinski is one of a select few printmakers who not only makes her own paper from native plants, but also mixes her printing ink from dry pigment and hand-pulls her prints from a printing press. Gallery exhibit attendees will be mesmerized by the process and techniques Wasinski uses to masterfully craft her one-of-a-kind prints.”

Wasinski specializes in creating her own handmade paper from various native plants, including hostas and daylily leaves, and ink from dry pigments. The Mayfield Heights native started her career in fine art when she was introduced to art therapy after a car accident that resulted in a lifestyle change. Over the years, Wasinski’s artistic talents have been showcased at the University of Findlay Art Show, The Ohio State University’s Fine Art Show and Cuyahoga Community College’s Art Show, among many others. She has also exhibited her work at the Biannual Miniature Art Collection in Iowa.

The Lakewood resident received a bachelor’s degree in visual communication from The University of Findlay and studied at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh in graphic design. In addition to her art experience, Wasinski regularly gives lectures and demonstrations on printmaking, layout and design.

Owens Veterans Services Unveils Free War Film Series

Posted on September 25th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Four nationally-known films depicting the raw emotional, mental and physical struggles that combat veterans endure will make their return to the “big screen” at Owens Community College as the Office of Veterans Services unveils the inaugural War Film Series on the Findlay-area and Toledo-area campuses for the 2012-13 academic year.

Each film will be shown in the College’s Education Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus and in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus. The 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 War Film Series is free and open to the public.

“Attendees will find each of these films emotionally riveting,” said Vickie Adams, Owens Director of Veterans Services. “Film goers will also see the horrors and honor of war, the connections that soldiers have to one another and their untold stories. Furthermore, individuals will learn more about what was once an unknown for many soldiers in posttraumatic stress disorder.”

The film series will open with the HBO Emmy Award-nominated documentary, “Alive Day Memories: Home from Iraq”, which details 10 American soldiers and their narrow brushes with death on the desert battlefield. The film’s title, “Alive Day”, is derived from a phrase used by the soldiers to indicate the day they cheated death during combat, according to the film.

In “Restrepo”, the goal of the film was to make viewers feel as if they just experienced a 90-minute deployment in Afghanistan’s Korengal Valley with the Second Platoon. At Outpost Restrepo, named in honor of fallen comrade Juan Restrepo, fierce fighting takes place with al-Qaeda and Taliban militants. “Restrepo” received the Grand Jury Prize for best documentary at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival and was nominated for a 2011 Academy Award for Best Documentary.

The series continues with “Lioness”, a documentary that pays tribute to the female soldiers who engaged in combat in the Iraq War even though official U.S. policy dictated they were forbidden from doing so. Team Lioness was dispatched on missions with all male combat units and frequently became involved in deadly ground skirmishes, yet they received no public recognition for their bravery and sacrifice.

HBO’s PRISM Award-winning “Wartorn” concludes the series and explores combat stress and posttraumatic stress on military personnel and their families throughout recorded American military history. The stories are told through soldiers’ revealing letters and journals; photographs and combat footage; first-person interviews with veterans of WWII, the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom; and interviews with family members of soldiers with post traumatic stress disorder.

The four films will be shown at the following dates, times and locations:

“Alive Day Memories: Home from Iraq”

(56 Minutes)

Thursday, Oct. 11 at 12 p.m. in the Education Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus

Thursday, Oct. 18 at 12 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus

“Restrepo”

(93 Minutes)

Thursday, Jan. 10 at 12 p.m. in the Education Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus

Thursday, Jan. 17 at 12 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus

“Lioness”

(83 Minutes)

Thursday, March 14 at 12 p.m. in the Education Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus

Thursday, March 21 at 12 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus

“Wartorn”

(75 Minutes)

Thursday, April 4 at 12 p.m. in the Education Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus

Thursday, May 2 at 12 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus

For more information about the free War Film Series, contact the Office of Veterans Services at (567) 661-8387 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 8387

Owens’ Community Terrace View Café Announces Fall Semester Menu, Oct. 18 – Dec. 4

Posted on September 25th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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 fall menu selections in the community Terrace View Café.

The Terrace View Café will be available to guests starting Thursday, Oct. 18 with kaeng khiao wan kai (green curry chicken) as the entrée. Regional food discoveries will be the featured selection on Tuesdays, while Thursday’s culinary focus is international influences.

Upcoming Fall Semester dates and entrée listings include Oct. 23 (panko encrusted tilapia with pinot noir glace), Oct. 25 (ente mit apfelfullung – duck with apple dressing), Oct. 30 (grilled salmon with berry barbeque sauce), Nov. 1 (dahi machi served atop basmati rice and masaledar sem – seared cod in yogurt sauce and spicy green beans), Nov. 6 (Jamaican jerk chicken), Nov. 8 (beef stroganoff accompanied with egg noodles), Nov. 13 (country captain chicken), Nov. 15 (Moroccan spiced sea Atlantic cod civiche), Nov. 20 (roasted chicken breast in apple cream), Nov. 27 (deep dish flaky pastry chicken pie), Nov. 29 (tapas) and Dec. 4 (made-to-order omelets). Additionally, attendees have the opportunity to choose either a lacto-ovo vegetarian entrée or a Terrace chicken burger with the planned side dishes if desired. A complete listing of dishes is available at www.owens.edu/terrace. Bakery items also will be available for purchase during the luncheons.

Owens’ Department of Food, Nutrition and Hospitality also offers a Baking and Pastry Certificate Program for those individuals interested in becoming a professional baker or pastry chef.

Owens Community College to Host DECA Fall Frenzy, Sept. 26

Posted on September 24th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Students from eight area high schools will showcase their knowledge and skills in marketing, merchandising, management and entrepreneurship as they compete in the DECA Fall Frenzy as part of a collaborative effort between Owens Community College and Penta Career Center. The event will take place at Owens on Wednesday, Sept. 26.

DECA Fall Frenzy will occur from 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center and Audio/Visual Classroom Center on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

DECA, which stands for “Distributive Education Clubs of America”, is a national organization dedicated to enhancing educational and career opportunities for high school and college students within the areas of marketing, management and entrepreneurship. Since its founding in 1946, DECA has remained on the cutting edge of educational innovation, working with the business community to integrate academic achievement with career and technical skills. Each year the organization’s scholarship program awards over $250,000 in financial assistance to students, which are generated from more than 50 corporations.

Throughout the day, students will be faced with various real-world business scenarios in which they will have to provide explanations on how to effectively manage the situation. Such role-play scenarios will include apparel and accessories, food marketing, restaurant management, retail merchandising, hospitality and tourism, and sports and entertainment. Students will also take a written examination and participate in activities that will test their interview skills.

The event will conclude with an awards ceremony at 12:30 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center. The top individuals will be honored based on judging of the team and series competitions.

Local high schools competing in the fall DECA competition include Anthony Wayne High School, Bowling Green High School, Springfield High School, Maumee High School, Penta Career Center, Oak Harbor High School, Perrysburg High School and Rossford High School.

Owens’ School of Business provides educational opportunities in a variety of associate degree and certificate programs, preparing students for careers in such areas as accounting, international business, marketing and sales, information systems, and office administration, among other career fields.

Owens Community College Offers Fall ACT Preparation Class, Oct. 1-22

Posted on September 24th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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 October. The class is coordinated through the College’s Workforce and Community Services.

The ACT preparation class will occur Monday evenings, Oct. 1-22, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

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

In addition to offering the ACT preparation class, Owens serves as a host site for the national ACT test. The next testing date after the ACT preparation class is Oct. 27. 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 Community College to Assist Local Residents With Clothing Swap Outreach Event, Oct. 2

Posted on September 20th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College students are reaching out to those individuals in the surrounding communities with a limited clothing budget by hosting a clothing swap event titled “Swap-It-Up” on Tuesday, Oct. 2.

The clothing swap is being presented by the College’s Student Activities Office and will take place from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The daylong event is free and open to the public.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again host an event that benefits individuals in our communities who have a limited clothing budget,” said Nicole Buccalo, Owens Student Activities Assistant. “I encourage individuals to donate their unnecessary clothes, while at the same time look for those hard-to-find items to add to their wardrobe.”

Any items not claimed during the clothing swap event will be donated to Cherry Street Mission Ministries.

For more information about the clothing swap event, call (567) 661-2994 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2994.

Owens Student Group to Host ‘Born this Way Ball’ Community Event, Sept. 29

Posted on September 20th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to enjoy an evening of dance, music and entertainment as Owens Community College serves as host to a community outreach event titled the “Born this Way Ball” on Saturday, Sept. 29.

Coordinated by the College’s Gay Straight Alliance student organization, the event will take place from 7-11 p.m. at the Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

In addition to entertainment, several community organizations will be on hand to provide information about healthy living and equal rights for minority groups. Food and refreshments will be provided as part of the event.

Tickets are $10 in advance or $20 at the event. For more information about the “Born this Way Ball”, call (567) 661-2155 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2155.

Northwest Ohio Community Leaders and Organizations Honored During Diamante Community Awards Event at Owens

Posted on September 18th, 2012

Diamante Awards recipients (L to R) Alberto Serrano-Chavez, Cynthia Geronimo, Nueva Esperanza Community Credit Union President/CEO Sue Cuevas and Celeste Taylor take time to pose for a group photo at Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Northwest Ohio community leaders and organizations, as well as area college and university students, recently were honored for their achievements and service to the Latino community as Owens Community College served as host to the 23rd annual Diamante Awards.

In addition to recognizing four Diamante (diamond in Spanish) Awards recipients, scholarships were presented to over 20 students from Owens Community College, Bowling Green State University, Lourdes University and The University of Toledo – the four Northwest Ohio academic institutions whose partnership in the awards program benefits their Latino students.

Diamante Award recipients are chosen based on recognition of exemplary leadership/achievements within the Latino community or community at large, or demonstrated excellence in their fields; dedication and commitment in an ethical and inclusive fashion, and modeling qualities and behaviors of a mentor for youth and the community.

The Diamante Award recipient in the category of Corporate/Community Agency is Nueva Esperanza Community Credit Union (NECCU). The organization was federally chartered in 2010 to provide access to financial service to the largely underserved Hispanic population of Toledo. The credit union was created to offer services to immigrant and low-income Hispanic families and has obtained a low-income designation from the National Credit Union Administration. NECCU is the first Latino community credit union in Ohio.

NECCU provides services in the Old South End of Toledo, an economically underprivileged area of 4,406 households. Due to the unique characteristics of this target market, NECCU integrates financial services with education to improve members’ financial literacy. In addition to basic financial services, NECCU staff offer one-on-one 15-minute orientations to new members when they inquire about share savings or share certificates of deposit (current services).

Alberto Serrano-Chavez of Maumee received the Diamante Award in the category of Latino Youth Leadership. Serrano-Chavez was born in Logrono, Spain and moved to Ohio at the age of three. He graduated with honors from Maumee High School in 2012. Serrano-Chavez was born with a congenital heart defect called transposition of the main arteries and underwent several open heart surgeries and other, less intrusive, operations to correct his heart issues throughout his life.

Now fully recovered from his health problems, Serrano-Chavez has been heavily involved in community service and leadership, which began with his acceptance into the 2009-10 class of Youth Leadership Toledo. After graduating from Youth Leadership Toledo, he was a two-year member of YIPEE during his junior and senior years in high school. While in YIPEE, he learned about fundraising, grants and non-profit organizations alongside other Youth Leadership Toledo graduates. Both years that he was a member, the organization raised more than $17,000.

Serrano-Chavez, who plans on studying individualized-business with an emphasis on fundraising and a minor in music at Bowling Green State University, wants to help others with the valuable life lessons he has learned and envisions working for Musicians On Call, which is an organization that brings musicians to hospitals so they can perform for people who are too sick to leave their beds.

The recipient of the Diamante Award in the category of Latina Adult Leadership is Cynthia “Cindy” Geronimo of Toledo. Geronimo serves as the Executive Director of the Lucas County Land Bank, whose mission is to preserve property values and strengthen neighborhoods. She is a dedicated public servant who is passionate about making a positive impact in the surrounding communities.

After graduating from Libbey High School, Geronimo enlisted in the 180th Ohio Air National Guard where she served for nine years and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. She was honorably discharged in 1995 and received several honors including two medals of Honor for Expeditionary Service and Meritorious Service.

Geronimo has served in the community as a past member of several boards such as the City of Toledo Youth Commission, United Way Steering Committee, Diamante Awards, Latino Vote and the Viva South Community Development Corporation. She currently holds board-level membership with ProMedica Insurance Corporation and is a member of the Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions, Treatment Accountability for Safer Communities and the City of Toledo Board of Community Relations.

The Diamante Award recipient in the category of Latina Adult Professional is Celeste Taylor of Toledo. Upon arriving at EOPA years ago, Taylor began her advocacy for services within the Latino community to include translating all materials into Spanish to provide self-sufficiency opportunities, facilitating Spanish-speaking workshops and raising funds to help children and families receive new clothing for winter and toys for Christmas.

In her quest to ensure that Latinos are treated fairly, Taylor has instituted several procedures and programs to meet their needs. Such efforts include hiring a Bilingual Family Service Worker that provides services to the Latino families in Spanish, securing multiple grants to enhance the lives of area residents and obtaining school supplies, with the help and support of family and friends, for Latino children. Taylor’s dedication and commitment to EOPA goes above and beyond her regular job duties and has had a profound impact on the Latino community and the organization.

In addition to Diamante Award winners, scholarships were awarded to students exhibiting academic excellence, service and leadership at the highest level. Scholarship recipients include Stephanie Garcia of Goshen, Ind. (BGSU student) (BGSU Diamante Foundation Scholarship), Diana Gonsalez of Claypool, Ind. (BGSU student) (BGSU Diamante Foundation Scholarship), Maria Figueroa of Goshen, Ind. (BGSU student) (BGSU Diamante Huntington Bank Endowed Scholarship), Rachel Martinez of Oregon (UT student) (Diamante Image Latino Scholarship), Mia Steen of Maumee (UT Student) (Diamante Image Latino Scholarship), Andres Zapata of Gibsonburg (UT student) (Diamante Image Latino Scholarship), Andres Zapata of Gibsonburg (UT student) (KeyBank Diamante Latino Scholarship), Elisea O’Donnell of Holland (Lourdes student) (Lourdes University Diamante Scholarship), Maria Symeou of Toledo (Lourdes student) (Lourdes University Diamante Scholarship), Krystel Castilleja of Toledo (Owens student) (Owens Community College Foundation Diamante Latino Scholarship), Rajesh Felix of Perrysburg (Owens student) (Owens Community College Foundation Diamante Latino Scholarship), Sarah Felix of Perrysburg (Owens student) (Owens Community College Foundation Diamante Latino Scholarship), Esperanza Gonzales of Toledo (Owens student) (Owens Community College Foundation Diamante Latino Scholarship) and Hanna Guerra of Toledo (Owens student) (Owens Community College Foundation Diamante Latino Scholarship).

Diamante Award scholarship recipients also are Nichole Plasensio of Toledo (Lourdes student) (PNC Diamante Latino Scholars Fund), Larry Sloan of Rossford (UT student) (PNC Diamante Latino Scholars Fund), Gina Voltaire of Findlay (Owens student) (PNC Diamante Latino Scholars Fund), Corina Flores of Leipsic (UT student) (Owens Corning Foundation Diamante Latino Scholars Fund), Diana Lagunovich of Findlay (Owens student) (Owens Corning Foundation Diamante Latino Scholars Fund), Amparo Pecina of Toledo (Lourdes student) (Owens Corning Foundation Diamante Latino Scholars Fund), Samantha Berryhill of Toledo (Owens student) (Spanish American Organization Scholarship) and Dianna Ysasi of Toledo (Owens student) (Spanish American Organization Scholarship).

The annual Diamante Awards, comprising Owens Community College, Bowling Green State University, Lourdes University and The University of Toledo, was founded in 1989 by IMAGE of Northwest Ohio, a local chapter of a national Latino non-profit organization, to recognize individuals and organizations in the local Hispanic community for their outstanding contributions. The initiative includes providing scholarships and other support to make it possible for Latino students to achieve their fullest potential by attending an institution of higher learning.

Owens Community College Veterans Services Receives 2013 Military Friendly School National Honor

Posted on September 17th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has earned the distinction of being designated as a Military Friendly School by Victory Media, a nationally-recognized media entity for military personnel transitioning into civilian life. The 2013 Military Friendly Schools listing honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools for exemplary efforts in embracing America’s military service members and veterans as students.

“Owens Community College’s Office of Veterans Services is extremely honored to once again be chosen as a Military Friendly School,” said Vickie Adams, Owens Director of Veterans Services. “This marks the third consecutive year that the Office of Veterans Services has earned this distinction, which certainly reaffirms Owens’ dedication to meeting the educational needs of veterans throughout the region.”

“Inclusion on the 2013 list of Military Friendly Schools shows Owens Community College’s commitment to providing a supportive environment for military students,” said Sean Collins, Director for “G.I. Jobs” and Vice President at Victory Media.

Victory Media honored 1,739 colleges, universities and trade schools as Military Friendly Schools for their commitment to providing an array of services to military veterans, including scholarships, veterans’ clubs and staff support, among other resources. The 2013 list of Military Friendly Schools was compiled through extensive research and a data driven survey of more than 12,000 schools nationwide. Methodology, criteria and weighting for the list were developed with the assistance of an Academic Advisory Board consisting of educators from schools across the country.

Victory Media is a service-based, veteran-owned small business founded in 2001. The organization publishes “G.I. Jobs”, “The Guide to Military Friendly Schools”, “Military Spouse” and “Vetrepreneur” magazines and has set the standard for ranking America’s most “military-friendly” employers.

Owens Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club Hosts Annual Fall Plant Sale, Sept. 26

Posted on September 17th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents seeking to add new life and color to their gardens and yards this fall are encouraged to attend the Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club’s annual Fall Plant Sale at Owens Community College on Wednesday, Sept. 26.

The plant sale will occur from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. next to the greenhouse, which is near the entrance to the Owens Math/Science Center on the Toledo-area Campus. The sale will feature a wide selection of shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses, and rare and unusual trees, among other items. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“The Owens Community College Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club student organization is excited to once again offer individuals the opportunity to purchase select trees and shrubs at a minimal cost for the upcoming fall planting season,” said Chris Foley, Owens Associate Professor of Science and Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club Advisor. “Fall is a very good time to plant trees and shrubs as the ground is still warm from the summer months and the soil is very moist. I encourage individuals to help support the Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club and get a head start on their fall planting projects.”

All proceeds from the plant sale will help in supporting the organization’s participation in the PLANET (Professional Landcare Network) Student Career Days, which is a national horticultural and landscape competition involving colleges and universities across the country.

Shrubs on hand will include the Purple Beauty Berry, Blue False Spirea, Dwarf Oakleaf Hydrangea, Fine Wine Weigela and a wide assortment of many others. Additionally, over 20 different varieties of trees and evergreens will be available at the fall plant sale such as the Japanese Stripped-bark Maple, the Kwanzan Cherry and the Colorado Spruce. The Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club will also sell an array of perennials, including select hostas and ornamental grasses. A complete listing of the available plants with their prices is available online at www.owens.edu/direct/plantsale.pdf.

The College’s Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club was founded in 2005 with the mission of fostering stronger bonds among students majoring in the Landscape and Turfgrass Management program. Among the organization’s main initiatives is creating a network between alumni and current students to help in assisting individuals pursue careers within the landscape, turfgrass and related horticulture industries. The group also hosts fundraisers to support club outreach activities in the surrounding communities.

For more information about the Owens Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club plant sale, call (567) 661-7623 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7623.

Owens Employees and Students to Spend Day Giving Back to Community Groups, Sept. 14

Posted on September 13th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Over 60 Owens Community College employees and students will spend a morning and afternoon giving back to others in the surrounding Northwest Ohio communities as part of the academic institution’s “Owens Day of Caring” on Friday, Sept. 14

Beginning at 9 a.m., Owens volunteers will roll up their sleeves and participate in a variety of interactive projects at both the Family House Toledo (669 Indiana Ave.) in Toledo and Otterbein Skilled Nursing and Rehab Neighborhood (3529 Rivers Edge Dr.) in Perrysburg including painting, sorting donations, moving mulch, cleaning a storage area, holiday decorating and engaging with community members. Owens representatives will conclude their volunteer efforts around 4 p.m. that same day.

The community outreach activities in the Toledo area are taking place in conjunction with the United Way’s annual “Week of Caring” initiative. The Owens volunteer team is among a number of organizations, matched with area non-profit groups, who are working on various outreach projects designed to strengthen the surrounding communities through the efforts of the United Way of Greater Toledo.

Additionally, Owens representatives will their day with area residents and engage in a variety of activities ranging from fishing to arts and crafts as part of Camp Berry’s (1176 County Rd. 40) annual Special Needs Day in Findlay. Owens volunteers will be on hand from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Owens’ community involvement in the Special Needs Day is occurring through a partnership with the United Way of Hancock County and their volunteer outreach program.

Owens Community College Honors Retiring Board of Trustees Members

Posted on September 13th, 2012

Retiring Owens Board of Trustees (L to R) R J Molter and Allan Libbe pose for a photo with Board Chair Dee Talmage following the College’s recent Board of Trustees meeting.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Board of Trustees members Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg and R J Molter of Woodville were recently honored for their combined 60 years of service and commitment to the academic institution and the Board of Trustees. Both Libbe and Molter are retiring at the end of their terms and were recognized at the College’s recent Board of Trustees meeting.

“Words cannot begin to express the Owens Community College Board of Trustees’ appreciation to Allan Libbe and R J Molter,” said Dee Talmage, Chair of the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. “Allan and R J have been instrumental in impacting the lives of thousands of students through their leadership and support of higher education. On behalf of Owens Community College and the Board of Trustees, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to both of them.”

Initially appointed to the Board of Trustees in September 1992, Libbe is one of three founders of Rudolph/Libbe in 1955 and now serves as Secretary/Treasurer of Rudolph/Libbe Companies. He earned a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science degree from Bowling Green State University.

During his Board of Trustees tenure, Libbe served as Board Chair (1996-97) and Vice Chair (1993-95) and was a member of the Finance Committee (2001-12). He also has held membership on the Owens Community College Foundation Board, prior to and since its incorporation in 2002.

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

Molter’s involvement on the College’s Board of Trustees includes serving as Board Chair (1974-77) (1998-99) and Vice Chair (1986-89) (1996-97) (2011). Additionally, he assisted in the establishment of the Ohio Technical and Community College Association Directory of Trustees. The state organization is now known as the Ohio Association of Community Colleges, which represents Ohio’s 23 community colleges.

Molter has served with five of the College’s six presidents and provided leadership in the growth and development of Owens Community College from a technical college to a comprehensive state community college and from 25 acres to more than 400 acres, including expansion to Hancock County and Lucas County. He also has witnessed approximately 30,133 diplomas conferred upon Owens graduates.

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

Owens Board of Trustees members include Diana H. (Dee) Talmage of Ottawa Hills, H. Richard Rowe of Findlay, Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg, R J Molter of Woodville, Edwin J. Nagle of Toledo, William E. Takacs of Toledo and Thomas R. Uhler of Rossford.

Owens Community College to Host Fall Charity Week Community Outreach Events, Sept. 17-20

Posted on September 11th, 2012

Coordinated by the College’s Student Activities Office, the various activities will occur daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Community service is about helping others and Owens Community College’s Charity Week is intended to provide opportunities for students and area residents to engage in such outreach activities through service projects,” said John Byers, Owens Director of Student Involvement. “I encourage individuals to help in lifting the spirits of another person by participating in one of the College’s many projects during Charity Week.”

Each day, participants will have the opportunity to engage in several hands-on activities, which will include designing colorful T-shirts, using paint products, for Haitian children and creating and stuffing tote bags with an assortment of interactive activities, including crayons, coloring books, beaded necklaces and reading books, for children spending time in area hospitals. Attendees can also assist in assembling “blessing bags” filled with such items as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, mouthwash, band aids, Kleenex tissues, ChapStick and granola bars for area residents who are homeless in the surrounding communities. Additionally, individuals can put their writing skills to the test by making inspirational cards for inclusion within the “blessing bags”.

In addition to the hands-on Charity Week activities, community members can assist by donating new crayons, coloring books and reading books as well as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, mouthwash and granola bars, among other items. Individuals can drop off their donations in Student Health and Activities Center Room 165 throughout the week.

All completed projects from Charity Week will be delivered to the appropriate community groups and organizations throughout the Fall Semester. For more information about the upcoming Charity Week community outreach activities, call (567) 661-2569 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2569.

Owens Presents Yet-to-be Written, Cast and Rehearsed Plays During 24-Hour ‘Theatre Express’ Event, Sept. 22

Posted on September 10th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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 serves as host to the fifth annual fall “Theatre Express” production, Sept. 21-22. The 24-hour theatre event will conclude on Saturday, Sept. 22, 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.

“Theatre goers are in for evening fun and enjoyment courtesy of Owens students and faculty and community members as they will have the opportunity to experience theatre of the unknown,” said Jeremy Meier, Owens Assistant Professor of Fine and Performing Arts. “Each production was written, cast, rehearsed and performed in the span of 24 hours, which is quite extraordinary.”

The 24-hour marathon begins Friday (Sept. 21) 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 (Sept. 22) 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.

Owens’ Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery Presents ‘Steel’ Artistic Welding Student Exhibition, Sept. 18 – Oct. 19

Posted on September 10th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College students will have the unique opportunity to showcase their artistic welding talents in Center for Fine and Performing Arts as the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery serves as host to the first-ever artistic welding student exhibition titled “Steel”, Sept. 18 – Oct. 19.

In addition, the College will host a free reception for the exhibit on Friday, Sept. 21 from 6-8 p.m. in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. Artwork will be on display both within the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery and in the outside courtyard adjacent the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“The Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts is proud to partner with the College’s School of Technology and showcase the artistic talents of our students,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “Attendees will be amazed at how materials, such as a piece of steel, can be transformed into a masterful work of art through the use of various welding techniques.”

Owens students and alumni of the College’s artistic welding classes displaying their artwork include Jim Van Brandt of Ottawa Lake, Mich., Pamela Reithmeier of Monclova, Todd Kime of Toledo, Toni Lucadello of Fostoria, Robert Krohn of Perrysburg, Beth Scheffert of Toledo, Robert Garcia of Toledo, Marie Brown of Napoleon, Jody Smith of Grand Rapids, Joanne Juan of Perrysburg, Mia Thomas of Toledo and Donald Cole of Napoleon. The College’s artistic welding classes are taught by nationally-known sculpture artist and Owens Adjunct Instructor of Manufacturing Technologies James Havens of Gibsonburg. Havens will also showcase artwork as part of the exhibition.

The exhibition features over 40 pieces of metal artwork ranging from abstract to the figurative. The College’s “Introduction and Intermediate Artistic Welding” courses focus on the creative and practical aspects of the welding processes through TIG, MIG and Arc welding. Students receive experiential learning specific to the proper use of welding equipment necessary to create sculptures and other artwork.

Artistic welding classes are taught in the College’s new $1.1 million Welding Design Center on the Toledo-area Campus. The state-of-the-art educational center features the latest in technological and academic resources specific to welding for several degree and certificate programs.

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Owens Celebrates Constitution Day With Voter Registration Events, Sept. 17-18

Posted on September 10th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Student Government and the Office of Student Activities is inviting students, as well as area residents, to join in celebrating Constitution Day by bringing awareness to the importance of the voting process Monday-Tuesday, Sept. 17-18.

Owens student representatives will make available voter registration forms to individuals from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Monday (Sept. 17) in the Student Health and Activities Center and the College Hall Atrium on the Toledo-area Campus. Additionally, voter registration forms will be available for visitors from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Tuesday (Sept. 18) in the Education Center Atrium on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township, while the Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

Qualifications to register to vote in Ohio include holding United States citizenship status, being at least 18 years of age on or before the day of the general election and being a resident of Ohio for at least 30 consecutive days immediately before the election in which the individual intends to vote, among other areas.

In addition to voter registration, attendees will have the opportunity to receive a free U.S. Constitution pocket booklet titled “U.S. Constitution and Fascinating Facts About It” on both the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

Established in 2004, Constitution Day celebrates the significant moment in U.S. history when 39 delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document that defined and separated powers of the federal government on Sept. 17, 1787.

For more information, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583, or (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Community College to Host Regional College Fair, Sept. 18

Posted on September 6th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to learn about the various educational opportunities available at colleges and universities throughout the surrounding region as Owens Community College serves as host to the Lucas/Wood County Educators and Community Helping Hispanics Onward College Fair on Tuesday, Sept. 18.

Presented by the Educators and Community Helping Hispanics Onward organization, the regional college fair will occur from 9:30-11:30 a.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Room 125 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

The regional college fair will begin at 9:30 a.m. with welcoming remarks from Educators and Community Helping Hispanics Onward representatives followed by a lecture presentation titled “Get Set for College”.

Colleges and universities and community organizations expected to be in attendance for the college fair include Owens Community College, Hiram College, University of Toledo, Youngstown State University, Bowling Green State University, University of Cincinnati, Ohio University, Gannon University, Cleveland State University, Baldwin Wallace University, Central State University, Kent State University, Terra Community College, Rhodes State College, Ohio Northern University, Educators and Community Helping Hispanics Onward and Ohio Department Job and Family Services, among others.

For more information, call (567) 661-7176 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7176.

Owens Community College to Host Regional American Sign Language Conference and Comedy Show, Sept. 7

Posted on September 5th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to gain insight and knowledge into American Sign Language and the Deaf Culture as Owens Community College serves as host to a regional conference and comedy show titled “How Do I Say Hi?” on Friday, Sept. 7.

Presented by the College’s Office of Disability Services, Owens Student Government and Owens Raising Awareness Club, the conference will occur from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center, while the comedy show will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Both events are open to the public.

The conference will commence at 9 a.m. with welcome remarks followed by morning and afternoon sessions for American Sign Language users and the Deaf Community, American Sign Language students and the general public. The different seminars during the morning and afternoon sessions will occur from 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30-5 p.m.

During the separate sessions, conference attendees will have the opportunity to receive information about such topics as best practices when working with deaf and hard of hearing individuals, what is Deaf Culture, American Sign Language improvisation, becoming an interpreter and/or working in a deaf-related field and American Sign Language storytelling and poetry, among other topics.

The sessions will be led by nationally-known American Sign Language educators and performers Keith Wann, Peter Cook, Crom Saunders and Windell “Wink” Smith Jr.

Owens’ daylong event will conclude with a two-hour comedy show featuring Wann, Cook, Saunders and Smith Jr. The comedy show will include both improvisation and stand-up routines in American Sign Language. Voice interpreters will be provided during the performance. Tickets for the comedy show are $10.

For additional information, call (567) 661-7007 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7007, or visit the conference and comedy show website howdoisayhi.com.

Owens Community College Students Observe 9/11 Tragedy With Community Events, Sept. 11

Posted on September 5th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Student Government is inviting their fellow students and employees, as well as area residents, to join them on the Toledo-area Campus and pay tribute to those victims and heroes that lost their lives in the Sept. 11 tragedy 11 years ago by participating in a series of free community events on Tuesday, Sept. 11.

The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Owens Sept. 11 events and activities are free and open to the public.

Beginning at 9 a.m., individuals will have the opportunity to view a memorial display in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda commemorating the anniversary of the terrorist attacks.

The memorial display will include an elaborate floral arrangement as well as newspaper clippings and photos from the tragic event. In an effort to fully honor and remember every victim of that day, a complete name listing of those that perished will be on display. Visitors will also have the chance to leave their own inspirational message and pick up a carnation to present at the memorial as part of an interactive exhibit titled “Where Were You”. Owens’ memorial display activities will conclude at 4 p.m.

Individuals will also have the chance to view the film “102 Minutes That Changed America” in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre. The 102-minute documentary film depicts in virtually real time the New York-based events of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks primarily using raw video footage from mostly amateur citizen journalists. Produced by History (channel), the documentary premiered in 2008. “102 Minutes That Changed America” will air continuously from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on the Toledo-area Campus.

For more information about the Sept. 11 activities, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Owens Delivers Backpacks and Supplies to Area Elementary School Children, Sept. 5-13

Posted on September 4th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Alumni Association in collaboration with Books-A-Million Inc., nine Directions Credit Union branches, two Great Lakes Credit Union branches and five Genoa Bank branches are brightening many children’s lives through a unique community service endeavor titled “Backpack to the Future”. Five hundred twenty-five backpacks and 11,582 school supply items collected throughout the summer months are being donated to 15 area elementary schools during the month of September.

Beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 5, Owens representatives will deliver backpacks and supplies to Jacobs Primary School in Findlay (1601 Jacobs Ave.) at 10:45 a.m. and to Rossford’s Glenwood Elementary School (8950 Avenue Rd.) at 3:45 p.m. On Friday, Sept. 7, Owens will donate backpacks and school supplies to Toledo Public Schools’ Old Orchard Elementary School (2402 Cheltenham Rd.) at 10:30 a.m. The following week, Owens representatives will make backpack and school supply donations on Monday, Sept. 10, to Toledo Public Schools’ Oakdale Elementary School (1620 E. Broadway St.) at 9:15 a.m.; on Tuesday, Sept. 11, to Toledo Public Schools’ Robinson Elementary School (1075 Horace) at 9:15 a.m.; on Wednesday, Sept. 12, to Toledo Public Schools’ Leverette Elementary School (445 E. Manhattan Blvd.) at 10:15 a.m., and on Thursday, Sept. 13, to Toledo Public Schools’ Rosa Parks Elementary School (3350 Cherry St.) at 10 a.m.

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

The drive also collected over $3,203 from community members. The charitable donations will go toward the purchase of school supplies.

The Owens Alumni Association established “Backpack to the Future” supply drive in 2004 as a way to provide educational outreach to the surrounding communities. To date, the program has given over 2,881 backpacks and more than 54,243 school supplies to benefit disadvantaged children throughout Northwest Ohio.

Political Expert Dr. George C. Edwards III to Provide Free Talk at Owens Community College, Sept. 6

Posted on August 31st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents interested in gaining insight into the presidential political process involving the Electoral College are invited to a free lecture featuring internationally-known presidential scholar Dr. George C. Edwards III at Owens Community College on Thursday, Sept. 6.

Sponsored by the College’s Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Edwards’ lecture presentation, titled “Evaluating the Electoral College”, will occur at 12:30 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. In addition, a reception for Edwards will take place prior to his lecture presentation at 12 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda.

Edwards serves as a University Distinguished Professor of Political Science at Texas A&M University. He also holds the Jordan Chair in Presidential Studies and has served as the Olin Professor of American Government at Oxford and the John Adams Fellow at the University of London, and has held senior visiting appointments at Sciences Po-Paris, Peking University, Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

A leading scholar of the U.S. presidency, Edwards has authored dozens of articles and has written or edited 25 books on American politics and public policy making. He is also editor of “Presidential Studies Quarterly” and general editor of the “Oxford Handbook of American Politics” series. Among his recent books, “On Deaf Ears: The Limits of the Bully Pulpit” examines the effectiveness of presidential leadership of public opinion, “Why the Electoral College Is Bad for America” evaluates the consequences of the method of electing the president and “The Strategic President” offers a new formulation for understanding presidential leadership.

Edwards has served as president of the Presidency Research Section of the American Political Science Association, which has named its annual dissertation prize in his honor and awarded him its Career Service Award. A member of Phi Beta Kappa and a Woodrow Wilson Fellow, he has received the Decoration for Distinguished Civilian Service from the U.S. Army and the Pi Sigma Alpha Prize from the Southern Political Science Association. He is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

Additionally, Edwards applies his scholarship to practical issues of governing, including advising Brazil on its constitution and the operation of its presidency, Russia on building a democratic national party system, Mexico on elections and Chinese scholars on democracy. He also authored studies for the 1988 and 2000 U.S. presidential transitions.

For additional information about the lecture presentation, call (567) 661-7180 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7180.

Owens Findlay-area Campus to Host Community Blood Drive in Honor of Patriot Day, Sept. 11

Posted on August 30th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Area residents are encouraged to help in saving lives as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus and the American Red Cross host a community Blood Drive on Tuesday, Sept. 11. The community Blood Drive is taking place in conjunction with Sept. 11 serving as Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance.

The Blood Drive will occur from 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. in the Conference Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Roadin Findlay.

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 encouraged.

Donors will be provided snacks and drinks before and after their donation. For more information, call 1-800-828-1975. Interested parties are encouraged to make an appointment by registering on the website at www.redcrossblood.org and entering the sponsor code OWENSCCFINDLAY or calling the above number.

Owens Community College to Host Fall Theatre Production Auditions, Sept. 24-25

Posted on August 29th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents interested in performing in the upcoming student production of the “Seven Short Farces by Anton Chekhov” are invited to open theatre auditions at Owens Community College, Sept. 24-25.

Auditions will take place Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 24 and 25, from 6-9 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre Room 111. Callback auditions will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 26. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Each individual is encouraged to prepare a comedic monologue as part of the audition or a monologue will be provided for them. The theatre production dates are Nov. 15-18.

Written by Anton Chekhov, “Seven Short Farces by Anton Chekhov” details seven different short comedies that begin with a relatively normal situation and build into a chaotic adventure of unique circumstances. Among the short comedies in the production are “The Bear”, “The Festivities” and “The Proposal”.

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 Community College Named International Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program Recipient

Posted on August 29th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has earned the distinction of being chosen by the Council for International Exchange of Scholars, a division of the Institute of International Education, to participate in the internationally-recognized Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program for the 2012-13 academic year. This marks the first time that the academic institution has received the prestigious honor.

As part of the international program, Farzona Rahimova, a native of Sughd, Tajikistan, will serve as the College’s Fulbright Scholar and share her knowledge and expertise with employees and students in the School of Business during the Fall and Spring semesters on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Additionally, she will assist in developing new business courses with an international focus and serve as a guest lecturer in several other academic disciplines such as geography, political science, history, economics, sociology and international studies. Rahimova, who will reside in Perrysburg, also will assist Owens faculty in assessing their courses from a global perspective.

“Owens Community College is honored to be selected as a Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program participant,” said Deborah Gavlik, Owens Director of International Programs and Services. “We are proud to welcome Farzona Rahimova to the United States and Owens Community College as the school’s first Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence and look forward to engaging both the campus community and the surrounding communities as we share learning and experiences globally.”

Rahimova most recently served as Branch Manager at Habitat for Humanity Tijikistan where she has provided leadership in the construction of 17 new home build projects, repaired more than 70 semi-built houses and provided technical assistance for more than 1,200 families in Sughd. One of her direct responsibilities at Habitat for Humanity Tajikistan is to manage the training unit, which includes the development and coordination of vocational construction training. In addition to her role with Habitat, Rahimova has provided training on HIV prevention and financial education for migrant families.

Her passion and advocacy for education includes involvement in the development of business education and entrepreneurship for families headed by women. As a result, Rahimova joined Junior Achievement Tajikistan and developed school curricula on applied economics for schools with the Junior Achievement program. She also worked on the translation and adaptation of a “Global Business Ethics” textbook and teacher guide. Additionally, Rahimova served as a part-time business trainer at the National Association of Business Women of Tajikistan, providing start-up business planning for women.

Rahimova has taught at the Institute of Trade and Economy in Khujand. Among the academic courses in which she has provided her expertise are economic geography, small business management, business planning and international economic relations. Her course in international economic relations was taught in the English language. Rahimova’s educational background also includes participating in an internship program at West Texas A&M University in Canyon, Texas, where she obtained knowledge about innovative, interactive and student-centered methods of teaching.

For more than 60 years, the Council for International Exchange of Scholars has helped administer the Fulbright Scholar Program, the U.S. government’s flagship academic exchange effort, on behalf of the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence participants teach primarily at the undergraduate level in world area studies courses/programs, interdisciplinary courses/programs that focus on global issues or courses where participation of a visiting scholarship can provide a cross-cultural or international perspective. Program participants also participate in a variety of campus and community activities aimed at strengthening the international programs and perspectives of institutions of higher education and the community. Approximately 50 grants are awarded annually as part of the Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program.

Owens’ Office of International Programs and Services is committed to providing experiential learning opportunities to international students from around the globe. This past Spring Semester, 107 students from 32 countries pursued higher education at Owens. Countries represented in Owens’ international student enrollment were Kenya, Egypt, China, India, Venezuela, Brazil, Columbia, Serbia, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and South Korea, among others.

Owens Community College Names New Express Men’s Golf Head Coach

Posted on August 27th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has named Assistant Coach Josh Williams to the position of Head Coach for the Express men’s golf program. Williams becomes the third Head Coach in program history and succeeds Gil Guerrero, who retired after coaching the program for the past six years.

“Coach Williams really stepped up and took on a number of added responsibilities last year with the men’s golf program,” stated Rudy Yovich, Owens Director of Athletics. “I was impressed with his work ethic, knowledge, concern for his student-athletes and love for Owens Community College. He is incredibly well respected by his peers within the conference and local golf community, and I am truly excited to see him lead the program.”

Williams has been part of the Express men’s golf program since its inception. From 2005-07, he was a student-athlete in the program, and he has been an Assistant Coach for the past five years. In those seven years, the program has sent either an individual or the team to the NJCAA Division II National Championship tournament on five occasions.

“That goes to show you the quality of players and young men that have came through this golf program over the years,” Williams said. “I look forward to bringing more success to the already rich tradition of achievements of the Express men’s golf program. I can assure you that I will bring more quality players to represent, not only the golf program, but Owens Community College.”

Last year, the Express golf team captured and/or finished tied for four match and invitational titles, highlighted by a third-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program also finished second in the NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after a round of 316 at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Additionally, Owens placed fourth in the NJCAA Region XII Golf Championship.

During his two years as a student-athlete, Williams was a First Team All-OCCAC selection, an NJCAA Division II Sub-Regional Medalist, a team captain, a Coaches Award recipient and was a member of the 2005-06 NJCAA Division II National Championship tournament qualifying team, where he finished 114th individually. Williams still holds the program record for lowest nine hole score (30).

Additionally, Williams played four years of basketball, golf and track, along with one year of football at Arcadia High School. He is a member of the Arcadia High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

The Perrysburg resident serves as the Vice President of Operations at Lakeland Golf Course in Fostoria, and he also teaches golf lessons at Maumee Sports Mall. For the past six years, Williams has taught classes as an Adjunct Instructor for Owens. He is currently working towards a degree in sport management and athletic administration from Ashford University.

Owens Community College Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery to Close ‘Images’ Glass Exhibit, Aug. 31

Posted on August 27th, 2012

Artist Susan Taylor Glasgow’s glass and mixed media purse titled “XO” are among the many artistic expressions on display in the “Images” exhibition at Owens’ Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery’s current “Images” glass exhibit, originally scheduled for public view through Sept. 14, will come to end on Friday, Aug. 31.

The Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is located in Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

Six glass artists, who have garnered national artistic acclaim, are showcasing their expressions and interpretations of glass as art as part of the “Images” exhibition, including Therman Statom, April Surgent, Tim Tate, Marc Petrovic, Michael Janis and Susan Taylor Glasgow, all of whom create works with photographic or painted images on glass. Approximately 25 featured artistic pieces are on display in Owens’ “Images” exhibit.

Owens’ “Images” Exhibition is presented in conjunction with Toledo serving as host to the Glass Art Society’s 42nd annual national conference, which took place in June.

Owens Community College Express Men’s Soccer Opens Season Against Cincinnati State, Aug. 25

Posted on August 24th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College men’s soccer will look to contend for its first-ever conference title by opening the 2012 schedule at home against Cincinnati State Technical and Community College on Saturday, Aug. 25. The match will begin at 1 p.m.

All home matches are played at the College’s Soccer Field on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home matches is free.

The Owens men’s soccer program is led by Head Coach Art Johnson. Johnson’s Assistant Coach is Dave Prediger. In 2011, the Express finished with a 13-8 overall record. Johnson’s team finished in third place (10-6 record) in the NJCAA Region XII men’s soccer regular season standings. The Express lost to Jackson Community College in the quarterfinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“We have a great group of student-athletes representing the Express men’s soccer program,” stated Johnson. “They are a very cohesive group that plays together. We are also very balanced on both sides of the field. Our schedule is extremely difficult with tough non-conference opponents. We will need to play at a very high level in every match. I expect our team to be in the hunt for a championship and much more.”

The Express has seven players returning to the roster. Among the second-year players on Johnson’s squad are Nickyle Webber of Trelawny, Jamaica (Cornwall College), Novak Vuk Janicic of Belgrade, Serbia (Electro Tehnicka School) and Blake Niemiec of Bowling Green (Otsego H.S.). In 2011, Webber earned team Most Valuable Player honors and was an OCCAC All-Conference First Team and an NJCAA All-Region XII Second Team selection. The sophomore midfielder totaled 11 goals and 27 points. Vuk Janicic is a sophomore forward and was named the team’s Offensive Most Valuable Player and OCCAC Co-Offensive Player of the Year. His postseason honors also included OCCAC All-Conference First Team and NJCAA All-Region XII Second Team. Vuk Janicic led the team with 14 goals and 37 points. Niemiec, a sophomore defender, was named the team’s Most Improved Player recipient. He totaled one point for the Express.

Also returning to the Express program are Juavanie Cole of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. (Coconut Creek H.S.), Glenroy Miller of Newark, N.J. (St. James H.S.), David Ortega-Gonzalez of Madrid, Spain (Nazaret Oporto College) and Chris Kervick of Waterford, Ireland (De La Salle College). Last year, Cole, a sophomore midfielder, totaled six assists and 12 points. His postseason honors included OCCAC All-Conference Second Team. Miller, a sophomore forward, totaled 16 goals and 37 points for the Express in 2010. Ortega-Gonzalez was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection last year. The sophomore midfielder totaled three points. Kervick, a sophomore defender, recorded five goals and 13 points for the Express in 2011.

First-year players to the Express men’s soccer program are Josh Kleinow of Holt, Mich., goalie (Haslett H.S.); Jacob Martin of Maumee, midfielder (St. John’s Jesuit H.S.); Odaine Edwards of Colorado Springs, Colo., defender (Cornwall College); Vijay Gentles of Tamarac, Fla., midfielder (Cedric Titus H.S.); Brandon Cruz of Mentor, defender (Lake Catholic H.S.); Virgil Garcia of Holland, midfielder (Toledo Christian School); Piet-Lennart Louwes of Sycamore, midfielder (Upper Sandusky H.S.); Troy Watson of Toronto, Canada, midfielder (Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School); Abraham Adoure-Zehaim of Maumee, defender (Springfield H.S.); Bryant Philo of Millbury, defender (Lake H.S.); Derrick Skillman of Upper Sandusky, forward (Upper Sandusky H.S.); Osvaldo Paredes of Pemberville, midfielder (Eastwood H.S.); Nate Seeman of Maumee, defender (Springfield H.S.); Tyler Kortokrax of Kalida, defender (Kalida H.S.); Jeffery Harding of Howell, Mich., goalie/midfielder (Howell H.S.), and Caleb Vespi of Pemberville, defender (Eastwood H.S.).

Owens Community College to Host Community Volunteer Action Fair, Aug. 30

Posted on August 24th, 2012

Coordinated by the Office of Service Learning, the Community Volunteer Action Fair will take place from 11 a.m. – 2 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 the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Throughout the event, individuals can meet with local community outreach representatives and ask them questions about volunteer opportunities available through their organizations.

Area organizations in attendance will include Odyssey Hospice, YWCA Hope Shelter, Cherry Street Mission Ministries, Sunshine of Northwest Ohio, Camp Courageous, Wood County Park District, Metroparks of the Toledo Area, Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities, United Way of Greater Toledo, Food for Thought, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio, Toledo Botanical Garden and Mobil Meals of Toledo, among many others.

For more information about the Community Volunteer Action Fair, call (567) 661-2275 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2275.

Owens Community College Environmental Club to Host Fall Electronics Collection Drive, Aug. 28

Posted on August 22nd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College’s Environmental Club is encouraging area residents to bring their used electronic devices to the Toledo-area Campus in support of environmental awareness as the student group serves as host to an “E-Waste” Collection Drive on Tuesday, Aug. 28.

The electronics collection drive initiative is part of a collaborative effort with Recycle It USA’s environmental program, where electronic items are either given new life and use through a refurbishment process or recycled with the various components being broken down and disseminated to recycle-specific organizations.

Items being collected include computers, displays, printers, keyboards and mice, scanners, projectors, document cameras, speakers, storage devices, stereo equipment, cameras and camcorders, networking hardware, cell phones, cables, video game consoles and flash drives, among other items. Televisions are not being accepted as part of the electronics collection drive event.

Electronic devices can be dropped off from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. in Parking Lot D, which is between Health Technologies Hall and College Hall on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens Environmental Club is comprised of active students who are dedicated to addressing a multitude of environmental issues. 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 highlighted by a continuous textbook recycling fundraiser.

Proceeds from all cell phones collected will benefit the College’s Environmental Club. For more information about the electronics collection drive, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Owens Community College Closed for Labor Day Weekend

Posted on August 22nd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, will be closed Saturday through Monday, Sept. 1-3 for the Labor Day holiday. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed.

Classes will resume and College offices will open again on Tuesday, Sept. 4.

Owens Fine and Performing Arts Professor Presents Free Oliver Hazard Perry Performance, Sept. 10

Posted on August 21st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to relive the War of 1812 and arguably one of its most significant moments and military leaders of that time as Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts presents “Oliver Hazard Perry: Hero of Lake Erie” in a scholarly portrayal by Fine and Performing Arts Assistant Professor Jeremy Meier on Monday, Sept. 10.

Meier’s 35-minute monologue as Commodore Perry about the Battle of Lake Erie will begin at 7 p.m. in the Studio Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The performance, which is taking place in conjunction with the bicentennial celebration of the War of 1812, is free and open to the public.

Adorned in period clothing, which was designed and constructed by Owens Fine and Performing Arts Adjunct Instructor Nichole Newman, Meier will provide insight into Perry’s life while serving in the U.S. Navy. Perry is well known for his victory over an entire British squadron during the Battle of Erie, which elevated his status to national hero.

Meier was commissioned by the Ohio Humanities Council to develop and write “Oliver Hazard Perry: Hero of Lake Erie”. The Sylvania resident has presented his portrayal of Perry in several communities throughout Ohio in 2012.

For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2798 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2798.

Second Chance at Education Begins for 50 Local Residents Through New Gateway to College Program at Owens

Posted on August 21st, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Fifty local residents are taking advantage of a second chance to realize their fullest academic and career potential as Owens Community College recently welcomed its first Gateway to College student class with the start of the Fall Semester. Owens is the only academic institution in Ohio to offer the program, which serves students who have dropped out of high school or are at risk of dropping out.

For Gateway to College students Larisa Burton and Theresa Brazzel, the new educational program represents hope for a brighter future for themselves and their families.

“My goal is to be successful,” explained Burton, who resides in Toledo and has ambitions of a career in theatre. “I have had many struggles in my life. This program offers a big chance at getting both my high school diploma and a college education.”

“I really had a problem concentrating in high school,” stated Brazzel of Toledo. “I am excited that Gateway to College will provide me with the support that I need both academically and emotionally. My ultimate goal is to become a registered nurse. I know I can reach my goal.”

Owens’ first Gateway to College student class recently participated in a Gateway to College Kick-Off Ceremony at the College’s Learning Center at The Source in Toledo of which both Burton and Brazzel along with fellow Gateway to College classmates were in attendance.

In 2011, Owens was awarded a $325,000 start-up grant from Gateway to College National Network to implement Gateway to College, a nationally recognized dropout recovery program.

Owens is one of over 30 community and technical colleges across the country currently offering the Gateway to College program.

For more information about the Gateway to College program, call (567) 661-2850 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2850, or e-mail at gateway@owens.edu.

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49 Local Residents Begin Second Chance at Education Through New Gateway to College Program at Owens, Aug. 20

Posted on August 17th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Forty-nine local residents will have the opportunity at a second chance to realize their fullest academic and career potential as Owens Community College welcomes its first Gateway to College student class on Monday, Aug. 20. Owens is the only academic institution in Ohio to offer the program, which serves students who have dropped out of high school or are at risk of dropping out.

Owens’ first Gateway to College student class will participate in a Gateway to College Kick-Off Ceremony from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the College’s Learning Center at The Source, which is located on Monroe Street in downtown Toledo. The opening ceremony coincides with the first day of classes for the Fall Semester at Owens.

The kick-off event will begin with opening remarks, introductions and a presentation about the difference between high school and college. Attendees will also engage in a variety of hands-on activities, as well as hear from Gateway to College staff.

In 2011, Owens was awarded a $325,000 start-up grant from Gateway to College National Network to implement Gateway to College, a nationally recognized dropout recovery program.

Owens is one of over 30 community and technical colleges across the country currently offering the Gateway to College program.

For more information about the Gateway to College program, call (567) 661-2850 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2850, or e-mail at gateway@owens.edu.

Owens Community College Joins National Program to Train 10,000 Older Workers for New Job Opportunities

Posted on August 17th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has been chosen along with 10 other academic institutions throughout the county to participate in a national program designed to train 10,000 baby boomers over the next three years for new jobs in healthcare, education and social service.

The program is offered by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) in cooperation with its member colleges and will ultimately comprise 100 colleges with special training programs for 50+ students. The Plus 50 Encore Completion Program is funded with a $3.2 million grant to AACC provided by Deerbrook Charitable Trust.

“Owens Community College is honored to be chosen as one of the few community colleges in the county to participate in the American Association of Community Colleges’ Plus 50 Encore Completion Program,” said Dr. Michael Bankey, Owens Associate Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. “Education opens doors to endless career possibilities. The College looks forward to working with the American Association of Community Colleges and local community organizations in developing an educational program that meets the needs of baby boomers throughout the Northwest Ohio region.”

The selected colleges are Arapahoe Community College (Littleton, Colo.), Black River Technical College (Pocahontas, Ark.), Broome Community College (Binghamton, N.Y.), John Wood Community College (Quincy, Ill.), Lansing Community College (Lansing, Mich.), Pitt Community College (Winterville, N.C.), San Jacinto Community College District (Pasadena, Texas), Southside Virginia Community College (Alberta, Va.), Waubonsee Community College (Aurora, Ill.), West Virginia University at Parkersburg (Parkersburg, W.Va.) and Owens Community College.

In addition to grant funds, the participating colleges gain access to thousands of dollars in marketing materials such as toolkits and training webinars that will make the work of reaching out to students age 50 and over easier. They’ll also benefit from the advice and support of staff at other community colleges that have successfully implemented programs for older learners and understand their unique needs.

“Baby boomers are not like traditional college students. We find that colleges need to adapt how they operate to support their job training needs and educational success,” said Mary Sue Vickers, director for the Plus 50 Initiative at AACC.

Baby boomers have increasingly turned to community colleges for help training for new careers. Since 2007, adults age 50 and over have struggled in a job market plagued by record unemployment. Many find they must re-invent their careers and update their skills if they are going to get hired. Careers in healthcare, education and social service also appeal to baby boomers who often have an interest in civic engagement.

Vickers says the program expects to add an additional 89 colleges in 2012 and early 2013 that will help it reach 10,000 baby boomer students by 2015. Grant funding applications for AACC member colleges are available now at www.aacc.nche.edu/plus50rfp.

The 100 colleges involved with the Plus 50 Encore Completion Program will build on the success of AACC’s Plus 50 Initiative. Since 2008, the initiative has focused its efforts on training programs to get unemployed older adults back on the job.

An independent evaluation of AACC’s Plus 50 Initiative found that 89 percent of students agreed that college work force training helped them acquire new job skills, and 72 percent attributed landing a job to such training.

The Plus 50 Encore Completion program supports AACC’s work to increase the number of students who finish degrees, certificates and other credentials. In April 2010, AACC committed alongside other higher education organizations, to promote the development and implementation of policies, practices and institutional cultures that will produce 50 percent more students with high quality degrees and certificates by 2020.

For more information about the Plus 50 Initiative at AACC, visit http://plus50.aacc.nche.edu ( http://plus50.aacc.nche.edu/ ).

The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) is a national organization representing close to 1,200 community, junior and technical colleges nationwide. Community colleges are the largest and fastest growing sector of higher education, enrolling more than 13 million credit and non-credit students annually. More information is available at http://aacc.nche.edu ( http://aacc.nche.edu/ ).

Owens Alumni Association Presents Annual Golf Classic, Sept. 24

Posted on August 16th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to enjoy a day of golf and entertainment in support of alumni programs and scholarships as Owens Community College’s Alumni Association holds its tenth annual Golf Classic on Monday, Sept. 24.

Organized by the Owens Alumni Association’s steering committee, the golf outing will be held at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. The event will feature 18-holes of golf, lunch, grazing dinner and an awards program. The Golf Classic event sponsors are the Hylant Group and Hylant Administrative Services. In addition, Metzgers Printing + Mailing is the print sponsor.

“Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is proud to host a community-wide event, benefitting students in pursuit of a college education,” said Laura Moore, Owens Alumni Association Executive Director. “The Golf Classic is a unique opportunity for business and industry, as well as Owens alumni, to provide continued support for higher education, ensuring our students with opportunities for transformational lifelong learning.”

The four-person scramble golf competition will begin with a shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. Lunch will precede the golf from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., followed by a brief golf demonstration at 1 p.m. The day will conclude with participants reminiscing about their golfing experience over a grazing dinner at 6 p.m. A short program will occur at this time to recognize all prize winners.

Individuals, businesses and organizations are invited to support the Golf Classic by entering a team and/or becoming a sponsor. Among the various levels of support include the Eagle Sponsor ($1,000), Birdie Sponsor ($800), Mulligan Sponsor ($350) and Bogey Sponsor ($250).

The Belmont Country Club is located on Bates Road in Perrysburg. The tournament is limited to the first 30 foursome teams. For more information, or to register a team, contact the Owens Alumni Relations Office at (567) 661-7876 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7876.

Owens Community College Express Women’s Soccer Opens Season Against Cincinnati State, Aug. 25

Posted on August 15th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College women’s soccer will make its 2012 season debut as the Express hosts Cincinnati State Technical and Community College on Saturday, Aug. 25. The season opener will start at 3 p.m.

All home matches are played at the College’s Soccer Field on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home matches is free.

“Our team is really looking forward to the start of the regular season,” said Mary Whisler, Owens Head Coach of the women’s soccer program. “We had a very successful season last year as a new Owens intercollegiate athletic program. I really believe we can build on that success. We have a very talented incoming class of freshmen to complement our veteran returners. I expect our team to be in the hunt for a regional title and much more.”

The 2011 season marked the first as an intercollegiate program for Owens women’s soccer. The Express finished with a 12-8 overall record and in fourth place (5-5 record) in the NJCAA Region XII women’s soccer regular season standings. Owens lost to Schoolcraft College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Owens has five student-athletes returning from last year’s team. Among the second-year players on Whisler’s squad are Kendra Eitniear of Swanton (Swanton H.S.) and Haley Gasser of Sylvania (Sylvania Northview H.S.). In 2011, Eitniear earned NJCAA All-Region XII Second Team honors. The sophomore forward totaled 21 goals and eight assists. Gasser is a sophomore midfielder and was named the team’s Coaches Award recipient. She recorded seven goals and led the team with 15 assists.

Also returning to the Express program are Sarah Weaver of Castalia (Margaretta H.S.), Jaime Sesock of Davisburg, Mich. (Holly H.S.) and Kristina-Marie Rutherford of Norton (Norton H.S.). Last year, Weaver, a sophomore forward/midfielder, recorded three goals and six assists. Sesock is a sophomore midfielder for the Express and totaled four goals and four assists. Rutherford, a sophomore defender/sweeper, tallied three goals and six assists for women’s soccer during the 2011 season.

First-year players to the Express women’s soccer program are Tayler Redinger of Fremont, goalkeeper (Fremont Ross H.S.); Erika Brinkman of Cloverdale, goalkeeper (Kalida H.S.); Jill Burkholder of Bryan, midfield (Bryan H.S.); Tara Preble of Millbury, defense (Lake H.S.); Haley Kreger of Temperance, Mich., midfield (Bedford H.S.); Taylor Avers of Gibsonburg, forward (Woodmore H.S.); Marissa Ramirez of Northwood, defense (Northwood H.S.); Samantha Starkey of Bowling Green, midfield/defense (Eastwood H.S.); Melanie Gregory of Northwood, defense (Genoa H.S.); Elizabeth Theaker of Maumee, defense (Maumee H.S.); Drew Plummer of Walbridge, forward (Lake H.S.), and Jessica Grindle of Northwood, forward/midfield (Northwood H.S.).

Owens Findlay-area Campus to Host Second Annual Express Fall 5K Run and Walk Benefit, Sept. 15

Posted on August 14th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Area residents are invited to walk and run for a good cause as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus serves as host to the second annual Express Fall 5K Run and Walk on Saturday, Sept. 15. Proceeds from the event will benefit the College’s cross country club team.

The Express Fall 5K Run and Walk will start at 8:30 a.m. on the College’s Findlay-area Campus, which is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

Running and walking participants are encouraged to register in advance as the cost is only $15 and includes a T-shirt, while race and walk registrants will pay $20 on Sept. 15.

The Owens cross country club team was established in 2007 and competes against such intercollegiate athletic program as Defiance College, Tiffin University, Bluffton University, Adrian College and Bowling Green State University, among others. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus serves as the home practice venue for the club program.

The club team is led by Owens Professor of Math Michael Senour, who is an avid runner and ran intercollegiate cross country and track at Tri-State University and Miami University.

Registration and packet pick-up will begin at 7:30 a.m. on Sept. 15. For more information, or to register, call (567) 429-3629 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3629.

Owens Community College to Welcome Thousands of Students for Fall Semester, Aug. 20

Posted on August 10th, 2012

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

On Monday, Aug. 20, Owens students will be locating their classrooms, purchasing books, experiencing college life and receiving helpful assistance from College officials to kick off the new fall term.

The Fall Semester will mark the first for new Owens Community College President Dr. Mike Bower. President Bower is the sixth President and Chief Executive Officer in the 47-year history of Owens.

Additionally, Owens is once again expanding educational opportunities for area residents by announcing new innovative academic curriculum and experiential learning resources. During Fall Semester 2012, the College will offer a new associate’s degree in vascular sonography and unveil new state-of-the-art occupational therapy assistant, dental assisting and math emporium laboratories, as well as a new virtual welding training system. A newly refurbished Alumni Hall featuring a comprehensive fitness center is also awaiting students pursuing careers in exercise science.

The College is also continuing to expand academic options for students with aspirations of completing a bachelor’s degree by introducing a new Honors Program partnership with Eastern Michigan University, which enables students to pursue academic success at the highest level from both institutions.

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

Owens, in partnership with Toledo Public Schools, will also welcome over 40 students participating in the new Gateway to College program. Gateway to College is designed for young adults ages 16 to 20 who have dropped out of high school or are significantly behind in credits and unlikely to graduate. The program enables them to complete their high school diploma requirements while simultaneously earning college credit toward an associate degree or certificate. Owens is the only academic institution in Ohio to offer the program.

Continuing to expand educational opportunities for students, Owens, in 2011, unveiled a newly expanded and renovated Owens Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo. The renovated educational facility now feature two new instructional classrooms and one open computer laboratory all with state-of-the-art technology and academic resources to enhance learning through hands-on instruction and exercises. Owens also in 2011 opened the doors to a newly refurbished $1.1 million Welding Design Center, which features the latest in technological and academic resources specific to welding for several degree and certificate programs.

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Findlay-area Campus Announces Additional One-Day Registration Event, Aug. 16

Posted on August 9th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – Area residents interested in pursuing a college education this fall at Owens Community College are invited to attend a day designed to assist them toward their career and educational aspirations as the academic institution serves as host to a One-Day Registration Event in August. Fall Semester classes begin Aug. 20.

Due to popular demand, an additional One-Day Registration Event will take place on Thursday, Aug. 16 in the Education Center Room 133 on the Findlay-area Campus. The registration session will occur from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

Throughout the registration day, individuals will be able to meet with representatives and complete their placement testing, attend new student orientation and register for classes, among other services. Participants will also be provided with a free lunch during their visit.

Attendees are required to complete an application prior to attending the registration day. Individuals are also required to bring valid picture identification and know their social security number.

Space for the One-Day Registration Event is limited. For more information, or to register, call (567) 429-3656 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3656. Or, check out the Owens website at www.owens.edu/oneday/.

Owens Community College Express Volleyball Opens Season at Lansing Tournament, Aug. 24-25

Posted on August 9th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s volleyball program will open its 2012 season with a tournament, Friday-Saturday, Aug. 24-25 at Lansing Community College in Lansing, Mich.

The Owens volleyball program is led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis. Last year, Lewis led the Express to 45 wins. Lewis’ Assistant Coaches are Denny Caldwell and Angie Parisho.

The Express will open its home campaign by hosting the Owens Express Invitational, Friday-Sunday, Aug. 31 – Sept. 2. All home matches 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.

The women’s volleyball program ended their 2011 season with a 45-5 overall record and finished 12-0 (first place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Owens has won 11 out of the last 12 OCCAC regular season championships. Lewis’ squad also was ranked No. 4 in the final NJCAA Division II volleyball regular season poll. The Express lost to Oakland Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“This year’s Owens Express volleyball team is extremely young as we have eight incoming freshman on the roster and only three returning veterans from last year’s team,” said Lewis “I am very happy with our progress during the preseason. We are getting better every day. The veterans are showing a lot of leadership and the freshmen are quick learners. I expect our team to once again be in the hunt for a conference title. We have to remain focused and work together in order to accomplish our goals.”

The Express have three players returning from last season’s team, including OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection Molly Hilfinger of Whitehouse (Anthony Wayne H.S.). In 2011, the sophomore setter was second on the team with 828 assists. The team’s Most Improved Player Award recipient, Hilfinger also recorded 45 aces and 281 digs.

Lewis’ squad also returns Alyssa Meis of Curtice (Genoa H.S.) and Brandi Schimming of Martin (Genoa H.S.). Meis, a sophomore outside hitter, recorded 163 kills, 73 digs and 49 blocks. Additionally, Meis earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors. Schimming is a sophomore defensive specialist and recorded 8 aces and 77 digs for the Express in 2011.

First-year players to the women’s volleyball program are Kennedy Geyman of Monroe, Mich., defensive specialist/outside hitter (Jefferson H.S.); Tiffani Hobbs of Toledo, rightside hitter (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.); Kenzie Kleinhenz of St. Henry, rightside hitter (St. Henry H.S.); Dakia Sellers of Mansfield, outside hitter/middle blocker (Madison H.S.); Jazmine Thomas of Lima, middle blocker (Lima Senior H.S.); Lisa Urbanski of Toledo, defensive specialist (Notre Dame Academy); Bailey Windham of Monroe, Mich., setter (St. Mary Catholic Central H.S.), and Dominique Yates of Toledo, middle blocker/outside hitter (Bowsher H.S.).

Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery Presents ‘Off the Hook’ Art Exhibit, Aug. 20 – Sept. 27

Posted on August 8th, 2012

Owens’ “Off the Hook” exhibition will feature such artistic expressions as Sharon Hammer Baker’s untitled fiber artwork on the College’s Findlay-area Campus.

FINDLAY, Ohio – Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus opens the 2012-13 arts season with an array of hand-woven fiber artwork depicting nature by fiber artists Sharon Hammer Baker and Janice Ryan as the Library Gallery presents “Off the Hook”, Aug. 20 – Sept. 27.

In addition, the College will host a reception and gallery talk for Hammer Baker and Ryan on Wednesday, Sept. 12 from 6-8 p.m. The reception and lecture are free and open to the public and 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 excited to showcase such a unique exhibit by extremely talented local fiber artists,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “Each artistic piece exhibited by Sharon Hammer Baker and Janice Ryan at the Library Gallery is hand hooked, which involves pulling fiber loops one at a time through a backing fabric with a hook. Exhibition visitors will certainly enjoy the amazing colors and textures found within their work.”

Hammer Baker and Ryan, both Findlay residents, have garnered regional and national acclaim for their fiber artwork and have been featured in numerous exhibitions throughout the region. Approximately 20 featured artistic pieces, made of both traditional and non-traditional materials and inspired by nature, will be on display in Owens’ “Off the Hook” exhibit.

Ohio Governor Appoints Community Leaders to Owens Community College Board of Trustees Positions

Posted on August 7th, 2012

Edwin J. Nagle

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Ohio Gov. John R. Kasich has appointed Edwin J. Nagle of Toledo and Thomas R. Uhler of Rossford to the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. Nagle and Uhler will serve four-year terms on the College’s Board of Trustees ending in 2016.

Both community leaders recently attended their first meeting as members of the Owens Community College Board of Trustees.

“We are proud to welcome Edwin Nagle and Thomas Uhler to Owens Community College and are very fortunate to have their dedication and leadership on our Board of Trustees,” said Dee Talmage, Chair of the Owens Community College Board of Trustees.

A graduate of the University of Toledo with a bachelors’ degree in finance, Nagle serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Nagle Companies in Walbridge. His professional and community involvement includes serving on the boards for the Mercy St. Charles Hospital Foundation, the Ohio Trucking Association and the University of Toledo Intermodal Transportation Institute.

Uhler serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of TTL Associates Inc. in Toledo. A retired U.S. Army Lt. Col., Uhler holds the position of Outreach Coordinator for Ohio Employers Support of the Guard and Reserve and is a member of the oversight committee of the Toledo Minority Business Assistance Center. He is a founding member of the Wood County Port Authority and a member of the Lucas County Improvement Corporation. Uhler earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of Toledo.

Thomas R. Uhler

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.

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

Owens Community College Names New School of Business Dean

Posted on August 7th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College has named Ann Theis as the new Dean of the School of Business. Her responsibilities will include overseeing all academic programs, as well as various activities and instructional initiatives within the School.

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

“Owens Community College is pleased to welcome Ann Theis as the new Dean of the School of Business,” said Dr. Renay Scott, Owens Vice President and Provost. “Ann brings a visionary approach and a wealth of experience both from private business and higher education to the College. The School of Business is recognized nationally for its commitment to academic excellence. Her leadership will be invaluable in furthering the reputation of the College’s School of Business and opening new doors to higher education opportunities that benefit both our students and the region.”

Since September 1989, Theis has served as a faculty member in several different leadership positions within the Department of Business and Accountancy at Adrian College. During her tenure as a Professor, Associate Professor and Assistant Professor, she has provided oversight in the development and implementation of academic course curriculum, including business applications for computers, management principles, production/operations management, information systems and project management, and supply chain management. Theis also supervises professional student internship opportunities and serves as an academic advisor for business students.

In addition to her teaching and advising roles, Theis has provided administrative leadership and guidance as Department Chair from 1997-2000, as President of the Faculty and President of the Adrian College Association of Professors. She also twice served as Associate Trustee to the Adrian College Board of Trustees and Chaired the Academic Policy and Assessment Committee. In 1999, Theis authored the Adrian College’s Self Study for the Higher Learning Commission resulting in a 10-year accreditation renewal for the academic institution.

Prior to her positions at Adrian College, Theis served as Director of Systems for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Ohio from 1981-89 where she was responsible for providing leadership in the design, development and implementation of business computer systems for the organization.

Her accomplishments include being named to the Beta Gamma Sigma National Honor Society for Business and Management and honored by the Mortar Board as an outstanding faculty member. In addition, Theis collaborated with fellow faculty members in authoring “Habits of Mind for College Students”.

The Toledo resident earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Denison University and an MBA from the University of Michigan.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Recognizes Honors Program Student During Honors Medallion Ceremony, Aug. 8

Posted on August 7th, 2012

FINDLAY, Ohio – An Owens Community College student pursuing academic studies at the highest level will be honored for her educational success and leadership as the Honors Program serves as host to an Honors Medallion Ceremony on Wednesday, Aug. 8.

The special ceremonies will culminate with the bestowing of an Owens Honors Program medallion to Christy Hamman of Bloomdale at 5 p.m. in the College’s Education Center Room 172 on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay. The Honors Medallion Ceremony is open to the public.

Hamman is completing her academic studies at Owens during this current summer term and is graduating with an Associate of Arts degree. The 2012 Elmwood High School graduate plans to pursue her bachelor’s degree in Spanish at Heidelberg University and eventually a career as a medical interpreter. During this past Spring Semester, Hamman, who holds a 3.86 grade point average, earned the opportunity to present at the College’s Honors Symposium. Her paper titled “Coming Into Heritage: The Joy Luck Club” focused on multicultural literature.

“Owens Community College is extremely proud to recognize Christy Hamman for her academic achievement,” said Dr. Russell Bodi, Owens Professor of English and Honors Program Director. “The Honors Program is designed to foster an educational environment in which students can excel to their fullest potential. Christy is an outstanding leader with a bright future ahead of her. The Honors Program commends her on her 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. Over 100 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 3.2 grade point average with 12 credits completed at Owens. A new student must have achieved a high school 3.2 grade point average or be enrolled as a post secondary enrollment option student.

Honors Program students must complete a total of 15 credit hours of honors courses, which includes nine credit hours of elective honors courses and two core courses titled Introduction to Critical Thinking and Honors Great Readings: Ancient World through the Middle Ages. To graduate as an Honors Scholar and receive the Honors Program medallion, a student must earn a cumulative 3.5 grade point average and complete an honors portfolio where 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, among other criteria.

Owens Honors Program graduates are able to continue their educational pursuits at Bowling Green State University, Eastern Michigan University and the University of Toledo as the academic institutions have in place seamless transfer agreements between the respective Honors Programs.

Owens Toledo-area Campus Announces Additional One-Day Registration Event Dates in August

Posted on August 6th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents interested in pursuing a college education this fall at Owens Community College are invited to attend one of several days designed to assist them toward their career and educational aspirations as the academic institution serves as host to One-Day Registration Events in August. Fall Semester classes begin Aug. 20.

Due to popular demand, additional One-Day Registration Events will take place Aug. 13, 15 and 16. Other One-Day Registration Events already scheduled include Aug. 6, 8 and 9. The registration events will take place in College Hall Room 130 on the Toledo-area Campus. Two separate registration sessions will take place each designated day. The first session will occur from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., while the second session will run from 3-9 p.m. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Throughout each registration day, individuals will be able to meet with representatives and complete student registration services specific to admissions, placement testing and new student orientation, among other services. Participants will also be provided with a free lunch or dinner during their visit.

Attendees are required to complete an application prior to attending a designated registration day. Individuals are also required to bring valid picture identification and know their social security number.

Space for each One-Day Registration Events session is limited. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7252 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7252. Or, check out the Owens website at www.owens.edu/oneday/.

Owens Community College Presents Annual Express Four-Person Golf Scramble, Aug. 18

Posted on August 6th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Area residents are invited to enjoy a day of golf to benefit men’s golf student-athletes and the intercollegiate program as Owens Community College presents its annual Express Four-Person Golf Scramble. The event will occur on Saturday, Aug. 18.

Coordinated by the Owens men’s golf program, the golf outing will be held at Spuyten Duyval Golf Club in Sylvania. The event will feature 18-holes of golf, lunch and an awards program.

The four-person golf scramble competition will begin at 8 a.m. Owens’ event will conclude with participants recalling their golfing experience during a short awards program, which will recognize the top foursome, as well as the longest drive, putting and closest to the pin contests.

Individuals, businesses and organizations are invited to support the Express Four-Person Golf Scramble by entering a team. The entry fee is $75 per player and all proceeds from the event will benefit the intercollegiate athletic men’s golf program.

The Express golf team captured and/or finished tied for four match and invitational titles during the season, highlighted by a third-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference Championship Invitational. The program also finished second in the NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after a round of 316 at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Additionally, Owens placed fourth in the NJCAA Region XII Golf Championship. The men’s golf program is led by first-year Head Coach Josh Williams.

Space is limited. Individuals must register prior to the date of the Express Four-Person Golf Scramble. For more information, call (567) 661-2643 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2643.

Owens Community College and Eastern Michigan University Announce New Honors Program Partnership

Posted on August 6th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Owens Community College Honors Program students pursuing their academic studies at the highest level will now be able to continue their educational pursuits at Eastern Michigan University as the two academic institutions have finalized a seamless transition agreement between their respective Honors Programs.

“Owens Community College is proud to collaborate with Eastern Michigan University and provide our students with the unique opportunity to enhance and challenge their intellectual growth at the highest level,” said Dr. Russell Bodi, Owens Professor of English and Honors Program Director. “The new Honors Program partnership opens new doors to learning opportunities for Owens students by creating a seamless pathway of Honors Program academic courses from the associate level to the baccalaureate level.”

As part of the new educational collaboration, students must achieve and maintain a 3.5 grade point average while attending Owens, as well as complete a minimum of 15 credit hours of designated Honors Program coursework. Owens students must also complete an Eastern Michigan Honors application for acceptance into the Honors College. Students will have the opportunity to participate in all Eastern Michigan Honors activities, events and services and receive the Honors Medallion and honors designation upon graduation from the program.

In addition to the new partnership with Eastern Michigan University, Owens Honors Program graduates are able to continue their educational pursuits at Bowling Green State University and the University of Toledo as the academic institutions have in place seamless transfer agreements between the respective Honors Programs.

For more information about the Owens Honors Program, call (567) 661-7524 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7524.

Eastern Michigan University is committed to providing a student-focused learning environment that enhances the lives of students and positively impacts the community. Founded in 1849, the academic institution serves 23,000 students who are pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 200 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the college’s of Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Health and Human Services, Technology and its graduate school.

30 Owens Community College Students to Graduate During Basic Peace Officer Academy Completion Ceremony, Aug. 7

Posted on August 3rd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Thirty Owens Community College students will be honored for their exemplary academic achievements as new Ohio Basic Peace Officer Training Academy graduates during a Basic Peace Officer Completion Ceremony on Tuesday, Aug. 7.

The special ceremonies will occur at 7 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The College’s Basic Peace Officer Training Academy graduation is open to the public.

“Owens Community College is proud to continue its collaboration with the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission and recognize these 30 individuals for their educational accomplishment,” said Robert Albright, Owens Academic Program Chair of Criminal Justice and Emergency Management. “Our nation would not experience freedom and safety as we know it without each graduate’s decision to pursue a career in public service.”

Founded in 1970, the Basic Peace Officer Training Academy is offered in cooperation with the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission. As part of the seven-month program, Owens police academy students take courses in patrol operations, firearms, defensive tactics and criminal investigation using modern, high-tech police equipment. Participants receive expert instruction from local police officers, sheriff’s deputies and corrections officers, as well as state and federal agents.

Following successful completion of the College’s Basic Peace Officer Training Academy, Owens graduates become eligible for certification as an Ohio peace officer. 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 have been employed include the Findlay Police Department, Fostoria Police Department, Hancock County Sheriff’s Department, Henry County Sheriff’s Department, 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.

Owens police academy graduates have completed the required number of law enforcement contact hours set forth by the Ohio Revised Code and the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission.

The College’s Toledo-area Campus Basic Peace Officer Day Academy graduates are Jordan Cramer of Liberty Center, Ryan Curry of Youngstown (sponsored by Youngstown Police Department), Brent Curtis of Bowling Green (sponsored by Wayne Police Department), Tyler Farkas of Williston, Cassius Hudson of Toledo, Donald Kreager Jr. of Woodville, Jonathan Penny of Toledo, Marcalis Quinones of Sylvania, Kyle Robison of Perrysburg, Andrew Rudnik of Avon Lake and Robin Valentine of Delta.

Owens students graduating from the Toledo-area Campus Basic Peace Officer Night Academy include Kevin Benbow of Maumee, Mark Bratt of Toledo, Derrick Cox of Sylvania, Jay Dettmer of Bowling Green, Olivia Donbrosky of Delta, Anthony Grindstaff of Toledo (sponsored by Mercy Health Partners Public Safety Department), Jason Jaworski of Maumee, Thomas Killen Jr. of Maumee, Benjimin Kiser of Perrysburg, Nicholas Migliori of Woodville (sponsored by Mercy Health Partners Public Safety Department), Cynthia Moll of Toledo (sponsored by Haskins Police Department), Adam Petiniot of Maumee, Carl Ray Jr. of Toledo, Ryan Rowe of Toledo, Chad Siebeneck of Carey, Cory Sosbe of Northwood, Gary Stewart of Toledo, Joshua Tropf of Toledo and Matthew Zakrzewski of Lambertville, Mich.

Owens Community College Student-Athletes Receive NJCAA Academic Award Honors

Posted on August 2nd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Five Owens Community College student-athletes have been selected to receive 2011-12 Academic Student-Athlete Award honors by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) for their outstanding accomplishments in the classroom and on the athletic playing field.

Sean Kaighin of Oregon (men’s soccer), Chris Ward of Brunswick (men’s baseball), Kasey Graham of Oregon (women’s softball), Conor Totzke of Liberty Center (men’s golf) and Hallie Thompson of Oregon (women’s softball) were named NJCAA Academic Student-Athlete Award recipients.

“Owens Community College is extremely proud of our student-athletes and honored to recognize them for their success as scholars within the classroom,” said Rudy Yovich, Owens Director of Athletics.

Honored Express student-athletes are Kaighin, an NJCAA Award for Superior Academic Achievement recipient with a 3.91 grade point average (adolescence education) (2 goals and 1 assist for the season) (Clay H.S. graduate); Ward, an NJCAA Award for Exemplary Academic Achievement recipient with a 3.75 grade point average (accounting) (2-3 record and 3.95 earned run average for the season) (Brunswick H.S. graduate); Graham, an NJCAA Award for Exemplary Academic Achievement recipient with a 3.73 grade point average (multi-age education) (13-1 record and 2.12 earned run average for the season) (Clay H.S. graduate); Totzke, an NJCAA Award for Exemplary Academic Achievement recipient with a 3.65 grade point average (pre-business administration) (80.5 scoring average for the season) (Liberty Center H.S. graduate), and Thompson, an NJCAA Award for Exemplary Academic Achievement recipient with a 3.62 grade point average (early childhood education) (.349 batting average, 6 triples and 21 RBIs for the season) (Clay H.S. graduate).

Selection criterion for the honored recipients is based upon achieving between 3.60-3.79 grade point average for NJCAA Award for Exemplary Academic Achievement honors, 3.80-3.99 grade point average for NJCAA Award for Superior Academic Achievement honors and a 4.0 grade point average for NJCAA Pinnacle Award for Academic Excellence honors.

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

Posted on August 2nd, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – 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 Spring Semester. Owens’ chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society is one of the largest in Ohio.

“Owens Community College is proud to recognize these new inductees for their outstanding dedication and commitment to higher education,” said Rick Clever, Owens Technical Director of Fine and Performing Arts and Co-Advisor. “Selection to Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society is certainly an honor that can only be achieved as a result of hard work and determination. Each and every student is very deserving and should be commended for their tremendous achievement.”

The Alpha Omega Pi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society student inductees for the 2012 Spring Semester are:

William Adams of Temperance, Mich. (technical studies)

Mariel Andrews of Bellevue (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Brian Barry of Toledo (pre-medical imaging)

Samantha Berryhill of Toledo (psychology)

Amanda Bigler of Toledo (communication studies)

William Boyer of Custar (architectural engineering technology)

Joseph Brower of Temperance, Mich. (automotive service management)

Justin Brownell of Bowling Green (wide-area networking technology)

Nicole Buchanan of Genoa (dental hygiene)

Christopher Bursten of Toledo (automation electronics)

Tristan Burt of Toledo (pre-medical imaging)

Jason Carlton of Perrysburg (networking and information systems support)

Holly Carr of Toledo (pre-nursing)

Jamie Carroll of Northwood (pre-health information)

Ryan Carter of Maumee (black belt technology)

Angela Castillo of Archbold (pre-nursing)

Megan Cichy of Toledo (pre-medical imaging)

Kimberly Clark of Toledo (gender studies)

Emily Cohen of Perrysburg (early childhood education)

Kristen Colter of Swanton (pre-nursing)

Adrianna Covarrubias of Toledo (world languages)

Matthew Crawford of Sylvania (history)

Brookelynn Diaz of Findlay (world languages)

Nicole Drake of Pemberville (associate of arts general concentration)

Laura Driscoll of Fremont (pre-nursing)

Brandon Eldridge of Monclova (early childhood education)

Nathan Erich of Bellville (John Deere technician)

Rebecca Everson of Grand Rapids (pre-occupational therapy)

Kurt Fairchild of Bowling Green (pre-business administration)

Rajesh Felix of Perrysburg (mathematics)

Sarah Felix of Perrysburg (mathematics)

Tobias Flemming of Maumee (journalism)

Audriana Fouts of Arcadia (journalism)

Calla Fraley of Toledo (accounting technology)

Kurt Franck III of Perrysburg (associate of arts general concentration)

Brad Gahler of Toledo (business management technology)

Keva Gray of Toledo (business management technology)

Sheila Gray of Millbury (accounting technology)

Livia Greener of Oak Harbor (associate of science general concentration)

Chandler Gressman of Perrysburg (pre-nursing)

Taylor Hahn of Oregon (communication studies)

Casey Haley of Holland (business management technology)

Kayleigh Harrington of Waterville (communication studies)

Mary Hartwig of Curtice (pre-cancer information)

Chris Hatfield of Toledo (associate of arts general concentration)

Steve Hayes of Toledo (associate of arts general concentration)

Emily Heldt of Toledo (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Lawrence Heninger of Bowling Green (biomedical electronics)

Julia HennemanDallape of Oregon (pre-nursing)

Molly Hilfinger of Whitehouse (pre-nursing)

Andrew Holliger of Perrysburg (adolescence education)

Bradley Hooser of West Unity (commercial art technology)

Michelle Houck of Toledo (diagnostic medical sonography)

Melissa Humphress of Findlay (pre-medical imaging)

Hannah Jacobs of Luckey (social work)

David Jaime of Holland (business management technology)

Terrina Jaynes of Toledo (pre-nursing)

Sunzarae Johnson of Toledo (manufacturing)

Shadia Jomaa of Toledo (nuclear medicine)

Sean Kaighin of Oregon (adolescence education)

Adam Kominek of Toledo (psychology)

Lisa Krider of Lambertville, Mich. (marketing and sales technology)

Margaret Krieger of Perrysburg (multi-age education)

Nikki Laws of Toledo (pre-dietetic)

Angela Lemble of Toledo (business management technology)

Shaowen Lo of Perrysburg (pre-business administration)

Bethany Lollar of Toledo (associate of arts general concentration)

Lynne Long of Walbridge (office support)

Walter Longoria Jr. of Toledo (information systems technology)

Maria Luna of Holland (associate of arts general concentration)

Ana Patricia Marquez of Toledo (pre-professional engineering)

Korissa Maxcy of Toledo (early childhood education)

Darryl Mays of Oregon (networking and information systems support)

Melissa Mcgaharan of Toledo (criminal justice technology)

Victoria McGinnis of Perrysburg (pre-licensed practical nursing to registered nursing)

Michelle McHaffie of Maumee (information systems technology)

Ana McKee of Perrysburg (business management technology)

Brian McKenzie of Bowling Green (computer programming technology)

Joann Meiring of Wauseon (pre-nursing)

Ryon Michalak of Perrysburg (chemistry)

Ashlyn Michalak of Walbridge (pre-business administration)

Roberta Montrie of Maumee (office coordination)

Nicholas Morgan of Holland (multi-age education)

Levi Murphy of Grand Rapids (pre-business administration)

Dianna Nevius of Gibsonburg (culinary arts)

Penny Niederkohr of Carey (pre-nursing)

Sarah Nofziger of Swanton (criminal justice technology)

Zeina Nuhfer of Toledo (accounting)

Stephanie Nusbaum of Temperance, Mich. (biomedical electronics)

Amanda Ollila of Toledo (medical coding)

Cynthia Ortega of Perrysburg (pre-nursing)

Tom Otieno of Toledo (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Sierra Parker of Perrysburg (world languages)

Sunina Patel of Toledo (dental hygiene)

Joshua Pettit of Walbridge (criminal justice technology)

Katherine Philo of Perrysburg (diagnostic medical sonography)

Shelbie Pinkelman of Metamora (auto body technician)

Julie Pitts of Columbus Grove (business management technology)

Kristy Polan of Weston (pre-licensed practical nursing to registered nursing)

Karen Porter of Findlay (networking and information systems support)

Maria Ratushinskaya of Bowling Green (CAD technology)

Nathaniel Rusch of Bowling Green (associate of arts general concentration)

Chelsea Sanders of Walbridge (public relations and advertising)

Jeremy Santus of Maumee (information systems technology)

Danielle Schumann of Toledo (pre-pharmacy)

Richard Scott Jr. of Toledo (pre-business administration)

Jason Shasteen of Toledo (business management technology)

Kendra Shellhammer of Rossford (pre-business administration)

Jamille Simon of Perrysburg (accounting technology)

Nathan Skowronek of Holland (computer science)

David Slaughter II of Lambertville, Mich. (international business technical)

Barbara Smith of Toledo (associate of science general concentration)

Margie Sparks of Maumee (John Deere technician)

Ciara Stewart of Toledo (accounting technology)

Robert St. John of Swanton (computer science)

Deanna Swafford of Toledo (medical office support)

Angela Todd of Bowling Green (pre-nursing)

Melinda Tulak of Toledo (medical office support)

Shannon Turner of Toledo (social work)

Maja Valusek of Toledo (office administration technology)

Joshua Vasko of Oregon (business management technology)

Justin Velliquette of Oak Harbor (pre-business administration)

Stephanie Wagner of Fostoria (pre-nursing)

Dawn Walker of Toledo (early childhood education)

Melissa Walker of Perrysburg (pre-nursing)

Ashleigh Walsh of Toledo (business management technology)

Mark Wasserman of Millbury (John Deere technician)

Angela Webb of Toledo (pre-nursing)

Jayme Weber of Sylvania (pre-biotechnology)

Brian Wickensimer of Washington Court House (computer science)

Ronald Williams II of Toledo (multi-age education)

Adam Witteman of Mount Cory (accounting technology)

Christopher Wolfe of Toledo (associate of science general concentration)

Ebrahim Yasin of Toledo (marketing and sales technology)

Tonya Young of Elmore (accounting technology)

Tiffany Young of Toledo (associate of science general concentration)

Travis Zunk of Martin (pre-business administration)

Owens Community College to Host Free Smart Money Choices Conference, Aug. 3

Posted on July 30th, 2012

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, Ohio – Northwest Ohio residents are invited to learn about ways to enhance their personal financial planning as Owens Community College serves as host to a free Smart Money Choices Conference on Friday, Aug. 3.

Presented by the State Treasurer of Ohio’s Office, the event will occur from 8 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. in the Audio/Visual Classroom Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. All activities are free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Attendees will be able to learn about such varied topics as budgeting, student funding and debt management, credit and debt management, retirement planning, estate planning, insurance, social security, consumer scams and investment fundamentals.

The conference will include an opening session and three breakout sessions taught by financial experts. Additionally, conference participants will have the opportunity to visit with financial professionals and experts and ask questions specific to financial planning.

The Smart Money Choices Conference is part of a statewide initiative focused on educating individuals about the benefits of making sound financial planning decisions. In addition to the Owens site, Smart Money Choices events are occurring in Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton, Columbus and Youngstown.

For more information about the event, or to register, call 1-800-228-1102 or visit www.ohiotreasurer.gov.