More than 200 Owens Community College students and employees and area residents recently walked the night and morning away in support of cancer awareness as the College hosted its fifth annual Relay for Life on the Toledo-area Campus. The 11-hour walking-journey for participating teams resulted in the College raising over $11,000 for cancer research.

Sponsored by the American Cancer Society and presented by the Colleges Against Cancer student organization, Owens’ Relay for Life is one of more than 300 similar cancer fundraising initiatives occurring throughout Ohio. Since its inception five years ago, the Owens event has raised nearly $100,000 to support cancer research.

“Owens’ Colleges Against Cancer student organization is proud to work with the American Cancer Society and help raise money for cancer research through events such as Relay for Life,” said Maggie Rowe, Owens President of the Colleges Against Cancer student organization. “Our goal is to inspire people to keep believing that a cure for cancer will soon be found. Relay for Life is a unique opportunity to celebrate the courageous spirit of those individuals battling cancer and let them know that we are fighting with them.”

Rowe added, “I also want thank all those individuals who made this year’s Relay for Life event a huge success, and I encourage people to continue to promote cancer awareness.”

Established in 1985, Relay for Life was created to offer communities a unique, empowering and fun way to assist in the fight against cancer. Today, as the American Cancer Society’s signature event, approximately 4,800 communities and 23 countries participate in the cancer awareness fundraiser.

Among the many highlights of the event were tributes to those individuals in attendance who have survived cancer. Twenty-five survivors together took part in a ceremonial first lap while cheered on by family, friends and Relay for Life participants. Special events included live bands, massages, dance lessons, silent auctions, relay contests, games, karaoke, putt-putt golf and indoor drive-in movies.

The American Cancer Society is the nation’s leading community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by prevention, saving lives and diminishing suffering through research, education, advocacy and service.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Traffic Delays Possible Starting Monday on Oregon Road Near the Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus

Posted on April 2nd, 2007

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has advised Owens Community College that Oregon Road will be reduced to one lane in each direction, beginning on Monday, April 2, until the completion of the Railroad Grade Separation (Overpass) Project in mid-October 2007. This will affect traffic on Oregon Road, starting at Wales Road adjacent to the construction site, and continuing to First Street/Biniker Drive and through the College’s Toledo-area Campus.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Sailing Club Opens Home Season With Team Race Regatta Invitational, March 24-25

Posted on March 23rd, 2007

Owens Community College’s Sailing Club will “set sail” on its second season as a club sport by welcoming intercollegiate sailing programs throughout the Midwest to Northwest Ohio and hosting the first-ever Owens Invitational Team Race Regatta, Saturday-Sunday, March 24-25.

The regatta will take place at the Jolly Roger Sailing Club in Toledo. Racing will occur from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Sunday. Competing sailing programs will include Owens, the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Ohio University, Penn State University, the University of Iowa and the University of Toledo. The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

“We’re really excited to begin the spring season by hosting the Owens Invitational Team Race Regatta,” said Ryan Lashaway of Toledo, who was instrumental in bringing sailing to Owens last year. “Our team was extremely competitive in the program’s first year as an intercollegiate sailing club. I really think we snuck up on much of our competition last year.”

Lashaway added, “Owens is building a reputation within the Midwest as a sailing college. Our goal is to learn from last year’s experience and compete at even a higher level against the four-year schools with prestigious sailing programs.”

Owens’ sailing became the latest addition to the College’s student involvement activities in spring 2006 and was one of the first community colleges in the country to introduce sailing as an intercollegiate club sport. The College is the only two-year academic institution affiliated with the Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association of North America (ICSA).

Last spring, Owens’ program participated in five regattas and boat races throughout the Midwest. In its first-ever regatta at the University of Notre Dame and to most competing school’s surprise, Owens finished second out of 13 other four-year colleges and universities, including Notre Dame, Marquette University and the University of Wisconsin.

Owens continued to build upon its impressive finish at Notre Dame by placing fourth and fifth at Miami University’s April Fools Regatta and Ohio State University’s Buckeye Intersectional, respectively. The Sailing Club also placed third at Northwestern University’s Invitational Regatta. Additionally, Owens was victorious in its own Lake Erie Collegiate Championship against Bowling Green State University, the University of Toledo and John Carroll University.

The program competed in four regattas this past fall, garnering first place honors at Purdue University’s Boiler Cup, Miami University’s Action Up Regatta and Michigan State University’s Cedarfest.

In addition to hosting the Owens Invitational Team Race Regatta, Owens’ Sailing Club is scheduled to participate in six regattas during the upcoming spring season. Owens will compete at Miami University’s April Fools Regatta (March 31 – April 1), Ohio University’s Bring Your Own Boat Regatta (April 7-8), Ohio State University’s Buckeye Intersectional and Buckeye Invitational (April 14-15), University of Wisconsin’s Dinghy Championships (April 28-29) and the University of Michigan’s Team Race Championships (May 5-6).

Owens is also planning to defend its Lake Erie Collegiate Championship title by hosting the second annual regatta in May.

According to Sailing Club President Ben Mercer of Monroe, Mich., Owens is now the owner of five boats and 20 sails, enabling the team to practice and compete with the latest in innovative sailing equipment.

Owens also received provisional status with the ICSA. Last year, the College was an ICSA associate member.

“ICSA provisional status allows the program to compete against some of the best four-year programs in national championship regattas across the country,” stated Mercer.

He added, “We are also planning to participate in both three- and one-person races, which is very exciting.”

In addition to membership with the ICSA, the Sailing Club participates in the Midwest College Sailing Association (MCSA), which includes 31 academic institutions throughout the Midwest. More than 3,000 individuals participate at the association’s member colleges and universities. The MCSA hosts more than 30 regattas annually, occurring both in the spring and fall seasons.

Owens students participating in the Sailing Club include Lindsay Gregory of Toledo, Lily Ingraham of Bowling Green, Jessica Schwind of Rossford, Bryan Bradley of Perrysburg, Dusty Bastian of Toledo, Sam Harden of Toledo, Devin Howard of Perrysburg, Jean Martin of Oregon, Kevin Bradley of Toledo, Mandy Sundling of Perrysburg and Ani Agajanyan of Toledo.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Alumni Association Accepting Nominations for Outstanding Service Award Celebration, March 19-30

Posted on March 19th, 2007

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

The College’s Alumni Association is presently accepting nominations for the Outstanding Service Awards. Area residents are invited to nominate an individual or individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations need to be returned to the College’s Office of Alumni Relations by Friday, March 30. The award is not limited to a single recipient, and the College’s Alumni Association encourages the nomination of more than one person when teamwork was the key element in their success.

“Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is proud to again honor our brave police, fire and emergency medical professionals for their dedication to our community,” said David Seeger, President of the Owens Alumni Association. “These outstanding citizens and their selfless acts of public service are essential to the safety and freedom within the community where we live.”

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Students, Faculty and Staff Choose to Spend Spring Break Rebuilding Hurricane and Tornado Damaged Houses

Posted on March 9th, 2007

Spring Break is usually a time when college students head south for a bit of relaxation, rejuvenation and good old-fashioned fun in the warm tropical sun. However, for a group of Owens Community College students, faculty and staff, heading south for Spring Break means a week of hard, manual labor to help out Gulf Coast residents in need.

Replacing old drywall is one of the many tasks awaiting 14 students, two faculty and one staff member as they depart Northwest Ohio at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 10 from Owens’ College Hall parking lot and head south to Lake Charles, La. The focus of the trip is to assist area residents rebuild their homes in the aftermath of two years of hurricanes and tornadoes.

The group of volunteers will spend one week working with Louisiana United Methodist Disaster Recovery Ministry, which is centrally located in Baton Rouge, La., dry-walling, painting and working on plumbing, as well as many other desired tasks, in two existing homes in the Lake Charles area.

“It is really hard to imagine what individuals in the Gulf Coast region are going through,” stated Tom Vollmer of Toledo, Owens Adjunct Faculty member and event coordinator. “Two years have gone by and devastation is still evident. From what I was told, our group will be traveling to neighborhoods lined with concrete slabs where houses once stood.”

Vollmer added, “This trip is about helping people. Living in Northwest Ohio, we are very fortunate to be spared such destruction and wanted to find a way to help.”

For Owens student Lily Ingraham of Bowling Green, making the choice to spend her spring break week helping others was an easy decision.

“What could be better than helping those in need,” explained Ingraham. “The situation in the Gulf Coast is far from normal. Our motivation is to assist Gulf Coast residents in returning their life and region to some semblance of normalcy.”

Owens students volunteering their time to participate in the humanitarian efforts are Amanda Keck of Toledo, Cory Panning of Pemberville, Hannah Shrayda of Toledo, Jamie Lewinski of Toledo, Jodi Douglas of Toledo, Leonard Bragg of Toledo, Eric Matthews of Bowling Green, Lindsay Gregory of Toledo, Lisa Hainen of Bowling Green, Matthew Brusoe of Holland, Nancy Jones of Toledo, Shannon McDonald of Toledo and Selena Hylton of Custar. In addition to Vollmer, faculty and staff members expected to accompany the students to the Gulf Coast region include Michael Sprowls of Findlay, Associate Professor of Math and Life Science, and Dwight Franklin of Swanton, Maintenance Specialist II.

Group members are expected to return to Northwest Ohio and Owens Community College in the late afternoon of Sunday, March 18.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Dedicates New Community Education and Wellness Center

Posted on March 8th, 2007

FINDLAY – With the dust hardly settled from construction of a new Findlay-area Campus, Owens Community College is continuing to invest in the future of higher education within the Northwest Ohio region by formerly dedicating a new $4.2 million Community Education and Wellness Center.

“Owens Community College has a longstanding commitment to providing the surrounding communities with access to enriched learning opportunities,” said Judy Ennis, Owens Executive Dean of the Findlay-area Campus. “The Community Education and Wellness Center will enable the College to open new doors to workforce training needs and expand its Community and Corporate Education offerings for the business and industry community as a result of the state-of-the-art academic and training resources.”

Ennis added, “This new facility also fulfills a need for a rather expansive building to house a wide array of Owens and community-oriented activities and events, including receptions, conferences, fine and performing arts, and athletic-specific competitions within the immediate area. The Community Education and Wellness Center is the College’s gift to our students and the surrounding communities and continues to fulfill our mission of serving students and the surrounding communities.”

Owens President Christa Adams, Ph.D., Findlay-area Campus Executive Dean Judy Ennis and Board of Trustee members joined community leaders and Owens employees in recently celebrating the new state-of-the-art facility’s unveiling with an official ribbon cutting ceremony and an open house.

Owens’ new 24,772 square-foot Community Education and Wellness Center was built adjacent to the Findlay-area Campus Education Center and is intended to provide the region and surrounding communities with expanded choices in educational training opportunities, highlighted by a five-tiered academic classroom that seats over 150 individuals, two academic multipurpose laboratories/shop bays and two computer laboratories.

Located at the center of the new Community Education and Wellness Center is the 6,522 square-foot Activities Center, which offers on-site catering services and can accommodate more than 1,300 individuals (approximately 375 banquet seating and 500 theatre seating). The facility will serve as venue to a wide array of Owens and community-oriented activities and events. Another feature is the 1,235 square-foot Wellness Center, which will provide cardiovascular and fitness exercise opportunities for Owens students, employees and alumni, as well as community members for a minimal cost. Additionally, the Community Education and Wellness Center features wireless Internet access throughout the academic complex.

Designed by the firm RCM Architects of Findlay, the exterior of the building matches the existing facility’s architecture with Belden brick, colored concrete block, reflective glass plate and curved metal canopies over the entrance doors. Charles Construction Services of Findlay served as the general contractor, while Warner Mechanical Corp. of Fremont and Westfield Electric Inc. of Gibsonburg oversaw combined plumbing/fire protection/mechanical and electrical contracts, respectively.

Two years ago, Owens marked a milestone in the academic institution’s history by opening a new $17.7 million Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ Education Center provides an array of academic resources, highlighted by 38 advanced technology classrooms, 27 technical and computer laboratories, and student services areas. Included in the new student services areas are a Bursar’s Office, Records Office, Financial Aid Office and Enrollment Services Office.

Additional features include a Bookstore, Commons area, Library, Jaguar Grill, Conference Room, and the Voorhees Conference Center. Encompassing 119,407 square feet, the 60-acre campus is located at 3200 Bright Road on Findlay’s northeast side.

Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is home to more than 100 degree and certificate program areas. Among the academic program offerings available to students are arts and sciences, business and information technology, health sciences, technology, public safety and emergency preparedness, and skilled trades.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Banu Gibson and the New Orleans Hot Jazz to Appear at Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts, March 4

Posted on February 27th, 2007

Area residents will travel back to the musical sounds of New Orleans jazz from the 1920s, 30s and 40s as Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts presents swinging jazz singer Banu Gibson and the New Orleans Hot Jazz on Sunday, March 4. Gibson and the New Orleans Hot Jazz will perform in the College’s Mainstage Theatre starting at 7:30 p.m.

“Owens Community College is delighted to present a swinging, nostalgic evening of entertainment featuring one of jazz’s most accomplished singers,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Operations Manager for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “Banu Gibson’s enthusiasm, showmanship and vocal range are unmatched among modern jazz performers. Music enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the unique sounds that rekindle memories of America’s golden age of music.”

Mixing fresh renditions of Tin Pan Alley standards and jazz classics by George Gershwin and Duke Ellington, among many others, Gibson and the New Orleans Hot Jazz are known worldwide for their onstage talents and have garnered performances on such television programs as “Entertainment Tonight” and PBS’s “Jazz From New Orleans”. Gibson and the New Orleans Hot Jazz’s talents have also been showcased on Garrison Keillor’s award-winning National Public Radio series “A Prairie Home Companion” and as the featured performers on American Public Radio’s “Riverwalk, Live From the Landing”.

In addition, the group’s talents have spanned the globe highlighted by performances in Germany, England, Norway, Sweden and Australia. Gibson has also toured throughout Europe with legendary jazz cornetist Wild Bill Davison.

The swinging jazz singer recently released her ninth full-length album for recording label Swing Out tiled “Let’s Face the Music and Dance”, and has expanded her musical talents to include live performances with symphony orchestras in St. Louis, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Phoenix and San Diego. Gibson and the New Orleans Hot Jazz also served as the only guest artist at the Boston Pops’ millennium New Year’s Eve celebration at Symphony Hall in Boston.

Tickets for Banu Gibson and the New Orleans Hot Jazz are $22 for the public, $20 for senior citizens and Owens employees, and $15 for students. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about the event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. ARTS (2787).

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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

Posted on February 19th, 2007

Oral hygiene, X-rays and fillings were the focus of free dental appointments at Owens Community College as more than 150 Northwest Ohio elementary and high school students’ teeth were transformed into pearly whites during the nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day.

Owens’ Dental Hygiene Program, in collaboration with the Toledo Dental Society, recently offered a day of free dental services for underprivileged children at the College’s Dental Hygiene Clinic.

For seven-year-old Travis Sherman of Rossford, the experience of having his teeth cleaned was “a fun time”. Showing off his shiny white teeth to his mother, Shannon Sherman of Rossford, and Owens Dental Hygiene student Alicia Przyojski of Toledo, Travis beamed about the “prizes” he took away from the appointment.

“They gave me a yellow toothbrush,” said the excited youngster. “I have three toothbrushes now at home: one is yellow, one vibrates and one looks like Superman.”

And don’t forget about the “cool sunglasses” that Travis wore during his appointment for the purpose of eliminating the glare from the overhead lights. “I wish I could take those sunglasses home,” the delighted seven-year-old admitted.

“I think Give Kids A Smile Day is a wonderful program and I am really appreciative to Owens,” said Travis’ mother Shannon. “We were here last year, and decided to come because of the exceptional service. Quality dental care is expensive and you can be sure we’ll be back again next year as well.”

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 service to children from low-income families across the country. In 2006, events were held at over 2,000 locations across the nation, with over 27,000 dental team volunteers and 12,000 dentists providing treatment to over 500,000 children.

“Owens Community College’s Dental Hygiene program is delighted to participate again this year 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 preventative dental care such as flossing, brushing and regular dental visits.”

According to Tronolone, Owens’ 20-chair Dental Hygiene Clinic normally provides service to roughly 40 patients in a given day.

“The thought of seeing over 150 patients in a single day could be considered daunting, however, Owens’ Dental Hygiene program was fortunate to have the help of 70 volunteers, including area dentists, Owens students and faculty, and returning Owens alumni,” explained Tronolone. “Owens’ Dental Hygiene program is extremely thankful to all our friends and partners for volunteering their time and helping local children in need of proper dental care. The day was a huge success because of their efforts.”

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

Local communities benefiting from the free dental services included Elmore, Perrysburg, Genoa, Holland, Whitehouse, Swanton, Northwood, Rossford, Waterville, Toledo, North Baltimore, Millbury, Maumee, Woodville, Monclova, Curtice, Sylvania, Oak Harbor, Haskins, Oregon and Temperance, Mich.

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, which is staffed by Owens dental hygiene students and supervised by licensed dental professionals at Owens, and appointments are available during the Fall and Spring semesters for a $25 fee.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Names New Director of Marketing and Communications

Posted on February 7th, 2007

Owens Community College has named Gary Corrigan as the new Director of Marketing and Communications. His responsibilities will include overseeing all strategic planning, development and execution of marketing and communications initiatives within the College’s Office of Marketing and Communications.

In addition, his new position will entail providing leadership and guidance in advancing Owens’ brand identity and visibility through integrated marketing, advertising, and internal and visual communications. Corrigan will also work closely with the campus community in promoting the College’s many academic programs, services and educational opportunities to the Northwest Ohio region and beyond.

“Owens Community College is honored to welcome Gary Corrigan as the new Director of Marketing and Communications,” said Dr. Paul Unger, Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “Gary is an outstanding leader who brings to the College extensive knowledge and experience in marketing and communications. He shares Owens’ commitment to providing a higher education experience that changes students’ lives and strengthens the surrounding communities and will play significant leadership role in furthering the College’s mission and vision through excellence, innovation and collaboration.”

Prior to joining Owens, Corrigan served as Director of Special Projects at the United Way of Greater Toledo and as Vice President of Corporate Communication at Dana Corporation for 13 years. While at Dana, he was responsible for the creation and implementation of a strategic plan to build the corporation’s reputation and visibility, and support sales and revenue growth. His responsibilities also included overseeing media and public relations, crisis communications, event management, marketing and internal communications. Initiatives in which Corrigan provided strategic direction and overall leadership included the annual report, news releases, speeches, newsletters, brochures, the video magazine, the Internet and the intranet.

Corrigan also served as Dana’s Director of Customer Training Services for 15 years, where he created and developed a nationally recognized customer training operation for the corporation’s divisions serving the automotive, off highway and commercial vehicle after-markets. While director, Corrigan was responsible for the creation of one of the schools at Dana University that provided technical skill training in automotive repair to Dana customers around the world.

His professional and community involvement included board-level memberships with the American Red Cross Greater Toledo Area Chapter, the American Cancer Society, the University of Toledo Alumni Association, Read for Literacy, and Think College Now, which is part of the Ohio College Access Network. Corrigan also was past Chairman of the Better Business Bureau and past President of the Automotive Public Relations Council.

The Sylvania resident earned his doctorate in Social Foundations of Education from the University of Toledo. Corrigan also holds a bachelor’s degree in Comprehensive Social Studies from the University of Toledo.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Names New School of Business and Information Technology Dean

Posted on February 6th, 2007

Owens Community College has named Dr. Karen Reed as the new Dean of the School of Business and Information Technology. 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 collaborating with the fellow academic deans to enhance educational opportunities and resources for current and future students.

“We are honored to have Dr. Karen Reed serving as the new Dean for Owens’ School of Business and Information Technology,” said Dr. Bruce Busby, Owens Vice President of Academic Services. “Dr. Reed brings a visionary approach and a wealth of knowledge and experience in accreditation, outcomes assessment and multi-campus coordination to the College, gained from her prior positions at DeVry University and Cuyahoga Community College. I am confident that Dr. Reed will play a significant leadership role in furthering the academic excellence and national reputation of the School of Business and Information Technology.”

Since June 2005, Reed has served as the Assistant Center Dean at DeVry University. While at DeVry, she was responsible for working with the Center Dean in the strategic direction and overall leadership of the academic institution’s Rockside Center in Seven Hills, Ohio. Her responsibilities also included overseeing faculty, advising students, and cultivating and implementing academic curriculum.

Prior to her position as DeVry University’s Assistant Center Dean, Reed served as the Dean of Business/Math and Technology at Cuyahoga Community College Eastern Campus for seven years, where she oversaw the strategic planning and operations for the division’s 17 academic disciplines.

Her professional and community involvement includes membership with the American Association of Women in Community and Junior Colleges, the National Council of Instructional Administrators, the Deaconess Community Foundation Board and the Ohio Association of Two-Year Colleges. Reed also was a member of the Beachwood Chamber of Commerce for seven years, where she was instrumental in the development of leadership classes and served on the organization’s Governance Committee.

The Rossford resident earned her doctorate in Secondary Education from the University of Akron. Reed received a master’s degree in Systems Management from Lake Erie College and a bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology from Mount Union College. She also holds certification in Higher Education Administration from the University of Akron.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Board of Trustees Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 6th, 2007

Owens Community College has named Dr. Ronald A. McMaster and John Moore to serve as the Chairman and Vice Chairman for the College’s Board of Trustees. Dr. McMaster and Moore were re-elected to their positions by their fellow colleagues during the recent Owens Board of Trustees meeting and will serve one-year terms.

“Owens Community College has an outstanding group of Board of Trustees who value the importance of providing access to a quality college education,” said Christa Adams, Ph.D., President of Owens Community College. “Each individual is passionate about higher education and engaged with the College’s faculty, staff and students. We are fortunate to have such dedicated leaders devoting their time and energy to furthering Owens’ mission and vision.”

Appointed in March 1993, Dr. McMaster is the President of McMaster Motor Co. and McMaster Fuel Ltd. Retired from GlassTech Inc. as Vice President of Corporate Development, he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Ohio State University and a doctoral degree from the University of Michigan, all in Mechanical Engineering. Dr. McMaster resides in Perrysburg.

A graduate of the University of Toledo with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Moore spent 30 years in banking and 10 years in higher education at Bowling Green State University. Appointed to the College’s Board of Trustees in April 2000, he now serves as a Consultant and authored a book on surviving stress. He resides in Holland.

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

In addition to Dr. McMaster and Moore, Owens Board of Trustees members include John G. Ault of Perrysburg, Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, RJ Molter of Woodville, Carl R. Patterson of Findlay, H. Richard Rowe of Findlay, Jack T. Sculfort of Perrysburg and Diana H. Talmage of Toledo.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Environmental Club and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Donates 1,200 Books to Needy Literacy Programs, Jan. 30

Posted on January 30th, 2007

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

Since establishing the collection drive program in June 2006, the two student organizations have received over 13,100 in donated books from Owens employees and students, as well as the surrounding communities. Most recently, the Environmental Club and the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society have collected over 1,200 books, which will eventually end up in the hands of underprivileged individuals throughout the world.

Beginning at 12:45 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 30, the two student organizations will pick up the various collection bins located around the Toledo-area Campus and prepare the donated books for shipment to Better World Books, which is a national organization dedicated to fighting illiteracy globally through the dissemination books and funds to needy non-profit organizations. Literacy non-profit groups in which Better World Books, located in Mishawaka, Ind., serves include Books for Africa (Sub-Saharan Africa), the National Center for Family Literacy (United States), Room to Read (South Asia), and World Education and Development Fund (Latin America).

To date, Better World Books has received more than three million book donations from over 900 colleges and universities 500 libraries participating in the worldwide program. The international organization has also assisted in raising more than $1.3 million for approximately 70 literacy and non-profit groups.

“The College’s Environmental Club and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society sees the book donation program as a great opportunity to make a lasting difference worldwide by improving the lives others through literacy,” said John Byers, Owens Coordinator of Student Activities. “We’re honored to bring the joys of learning in the form of a good book.”

Byers added, “The book collection program has been extremely successful and we encourage individuals to drop up their new or used books and this initiative is ongoing.”

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

The Owens Environmental Club is comprised of active students who are dedicated to addressing a multitude of environmental issues on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. The student organization has successfully implemented numerous recycling programs, while bringing more awareness to environmental concerns. Within the community, the Owens Environmental Club regularly helps in community clean-ups and preserve restorations, participates in charity events, and supports various environmental causes with a yearly Human-I-Tees fundraiser.

The overall mission of Phi Theta Kappa is to recognize academic excellence among two-year college students, provide opportunities for leadership training and an intellectual climate for the exchange of ideas and ideals. In addition, the society continues to promote among its members the four standard hallmarks: scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship. Owens’ chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, which includes more than 350 members, is one of the largest honor societies in Ohio.

Other campus groups that have assisted the College’s two student organizations include the Literacy Committee and the Rotaract Club. For more information about the book collection drive, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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19,347 Students Choose Owens to Pursue Educational Opportunities and Career Aspirations

Posted on January 26th, 2007

Owens Community College continues to provide Northwest Ohio residents with greater access to higher education at an affordable cost with 19,347 students choosing to attend the academic institution for Spring Semester classes.

Since becoming a comprehensive community college in 1994, Owens has more than doubled its Spring Semester student enrollment by an astounding 143 percent. The College enrolled 7,957 students for Spring Semester classes in 1994.

“Owens Community College has a long and proud tradition of making a difference in students’ lives by providing access to a quality college education,” said Dr. Bill Ivoska, Owens Vice President of Student Services. “Our focus and commitment is on helping students become future leaders and obtain their academic and career goals.”

Ivoska added, “Owens students are Northwest Ohio’s future nurses, information systems professionals, accountants and survey technicians. These highly skilled and motivated individuals are tomorrow’s societal leaders and contributors and Owens is proud to play an important role in their success.”

For Veronica Herrera of Northwood, an Office Administration major, the decision to choose Owens instead of other area four-year colleges and universities was an easy decision.

“I really wanted to attend a college that was both affordable and close to home,” explained Herrera, a Northwood High School graduate. “Owens is just a short driving distance from Northwood and tuition is extremely affordable.”

Herrera added, “I really enjoy the classroom atmosphere. My classes are small in size and the instructors are extremely knowledgeable and really go out of their way to help students with their questions. Owens has been everything I thought it would be and more.”

Herrera is one of 2,409 students currently pursuing a college education as majors within the School of Business and Information Technology during the 2007 spring term – up from 2,299 last spring (4.8 percent increase).

“Owens has played a large role in making my dreams a reality and I am very appreciative,” said Herrera, who plans to transfer to a four-year institution after graduating from Owens following the 2007 fall term.

The combined Spring Semester enrollment of 19,347 students on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses surpasses the enrollment of 18,616 students during Spring Semester 2006. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus has 16,694 students attending classes, while on the Findlay-area Campus 2,653 students are enrolled for the spring term. On both campuses, Spring Semester enrollment has increased 3.9 percent from last spring.

According to Ivoska, Owens also has made a fundamental point to build upon the educational needs of its students through the continued advancement of innovative programs, courses, teaching methods and academic resources.

Owens has increased its educational opportunities available to students this past academic year by expanding academic curriculum in such areas as the paramedic to registered nursing bridge program, culinary arts, massage therapy, and landscape and turfgrass management, among others. New educational initiatives also include Owens offering its first-ever academic courses at Rogers High School this spring as part of a new partnership with Toledo Public Schools.

Additionally, the College is continuing to expand its extremely popular eOwens distance learning education by continuously introducing new academic courses online. For Spring Semester 8,128 students are pursuing e-Learning courses – up from 5,650 from last spring (43.8 percent increase).

The College is also expanding upon its services this academic year by showcasing a new Student Resource Center, which is designed to foster student success. Additionally, Owens introduced a new Honors Program and unveiled a remodeled exercise facility in the Student Health and Activities Center.

Continuing to enhance educational opportunities for students in the Hancock County area, Owens opened a new $17.7 million Findlay-area Campus in 2005. Additionally, Owens is investing in the future of higher education within the Northwest Ohio region by unveiling a new $4.2 million Findlay-area Campus community education and wellness center in late February.

To accommodate the record number of students, the College also within the last four years opened an $11 million Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus. This spring, Owens will unveil a new Center for Emergency Preparedness. The Center will be the only state-of-the-art facility of this magnitude within the Midwest.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Findlay-area Campus Expands Educational Resources As New GED Regional Testing Center

Posted on January 24th, 2007

FINDLAY – Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus is expanding its educational opportunities available to area residents by partnering with the Ohio Department of Education and serving as the new home site for the official General Educational Development (GED) test. As part of the partnership, Owens becomes one of only two Testing Centers in Hancock County to house the official GED examination. The new Owens Testing Center will also provide educational testing services for to the immediate area, including Allen, Hardin, Henry, Putnam, Seneca, Wood and Wyandot counties.

“Owens Community College is honored to partner with the Ohio Department of Education and open new doors for individuals to obtain their high school education,” said Judy Ennis, Owens Executive Dean of the Findlay-area Campus. “The benefits of an education are endless. The Owens Findlay-area Campus is committed to providing enriched learning opportunities and academic resources, enabling students to excel and become valuable members of society.”

Ennis added, “Serving as one of the region’s sites for the official GED examination is an exciting addition to the Owens Findlay-area Campus and we embrace the Ohio Department of Education’s vision and commitment to academic excellence.”

According to Joan Myers, State GED Administrator for the Ohio Department of Education, the GED examination is internationally regarded and over 90 percent of employers recognize the GED for employment, promotional opportunities and continuing education.

“We welcome the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Testing Center into the GED family within the state of Ohio and look forward to many years of partnering and service to students without a high school diploma,” she stated.

The GED examination was created with the goal of providing individuals who do not finish high school with an opportunity to earn an Ohio High School Equivalence Diploma and advance their academic and career aspirations. Prior to taking the Ohio GED examinations, individuals are encouraged to attend free GED Preparation classes offered on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and Thursdays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 6-9 p.m.

Owens’ GED Preparation classes are designed to help prepare students for success in passing the Ohio GED examination by building on a foundation of basic skills, including reading comprehension, science and mathematics. Owens’ GED Preparation classes will be held in Room 150 on the Findlay-area Campus. Additionally, all students must attend an orientation meeting before receiving GED Preparation classroom instruction. Orientation meetings will occur on Mondays from 6-9 p.m. in Room 162 and on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. in Room 150. GED orientation dates are Feb. 12, 13 and 26; March 12, 13 and 26; and April 9, 10 and 23.

The College will also make available a free Ohio GED practice test for individuals prior to taking the official examination. Students who pass the GED practice test will receive a fee waiver to take the Ohio GED test for free, saving $55. The practice test will be offered in the College’s Testing Center through a computer program or a hard copy version.

The official Ohio GED examination will administered at Owens on one designated day per month. The College’s next official testing date is Monday, Feb. 19. GED testing will begin at 7:15 a.m. on the Findlay-area Campus. Upcoming testing dates in 2007 are March 3, April 9, May 5, June 12, July 6, Aug. 1, Sept. 8, Oct. 6, Nov. 3 and Dec. 1.

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

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Foundation Helps Students Achieve Academic Dreams Through 2007-08 Scholarship Program Opportunities

Posted on January 19th, 2007

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 2007-08 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 150 available scholarships for the upcoming 2007-08 academic year. For scholarships based on financial need, a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application for the 2007-08 academic year must be on file in the College’s Office of Financial Aid by Thursday, Feb. 15.

“The Owens Community College Foundation is committed to providing students with access to higher education opportunities,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of Fund Development and Foundation President. “Through the generous support of friends, parents, and Owens alumni and employees, the Owens Foundation is able to financially help many students with their educational pursuits, which will certainly have a lasting impact on Northwest Ohio’s economic future as these highly successful and motivated individuals become tomorrow’s societal leaders and contributors. The Owens Foundation is honored to play such an important role in assisting these future leaders obtain their academic and career goals.”

FAFSA and Foundation Scholarship Program forms are available in the College’s Financial Aid Office or can be downloaded by accessing the Owens website at www.owens.edu. Scholarship applicants must complete and return the application to the Financial Aid Office on either the Toledo-area or Findlay-area campus by Thursday, February 15. Fall scholarship award notification will be sent to selected students in late March, while Spring Semester recipients will be notified according to specific scholarship deadlines.

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 Ohio College Opportunity Grant, the Federal Stafford Loan, the Federal PLUS Loan and the Federal Work Study, among others.

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $2 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 22 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties. The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is cultivating gift initiatives by targeting successful alumni, business and industry members who are committed to investing and supporting the educational needs of current and future Owens students. The Foundation’s focus allows Owens to continue offering affordable tuition, ensuring the College’s academic position as the best investment in Northwest Ohio.

In addition to the Foundation, Owens this past year provided more than $45.5 million in grants, scholarships, loans and federal work study to support the educational needs of students. For more information on the various scholarship opportunities, call (567) 661-7603 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7603.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Enhances Access to Higher Education Through New Financial Aid Awards Program

Posted on January 3rd, 2007

Owens Community College is entering into a new partnership with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Ohio Board of Regents in which area residents will have the opportunity to apply for thousands of dollars in financial aid as part of a new awards program designed to assist students in their pursuit of a college education.

The new state awards initiative, titled TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) Educational Awards Program (TEAP), will be available to eligible Owens students enrolling for the upcoming Spring Semester. Academic classes for the spring term begin on Thursday, Jan. 11.

“Owens Community College is committed to helping students pursue their academic and career aspirations by providing an array of financial aid programs and resources,” said Betsy Johnson, Owens Director of Financial Aid. “Students often face many barriers in obtaining a college education. Owens Community College is proud to partner with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Ohio Board of Regents and further eliminate these financial barriers by making available resources such as the TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) Educational Awards Program.”

To be eligible for the TEAP financial aid initiative, a student must be a United States citizen, an Ohio resident and enrolled in college level undergraduate courses during the upcoming Spring Semester at an Ohio public or private academic institution, which has elected to participate in the program. An applicant must also meet one of the following eligibility requirements: a parent of a minor child who is an Ohio resident, a legal guardian or a specified relative of a minor child who is an Ohio resident, a woman who is pregnant, or a non-custodial parent of a minor child who is an Ohio resident.

Additionally program-eligible students must have completed a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form and at least 15 credit hours of college level work with an accredited institution of higher education.

Students who meet the requirements will receive $600 in non-repayable financial assistance for use during the upcoming academic term. Award recipients can use the $600 to help pay for tuition and costs not covered by other grant programs. The award can also pay for technology fees, books, tutoring, counseling, course supplies, and computer and Internet access.

Owens this past year provided more than $45.5 million in grants, scholarships, loans and federal work study to support the educational needs of students. Recently, the Owens Community College Foundation awarded scholarships and program support in the amount of more than $87,000 to students exemplifying academic excellence and leadership.

For more information about the new awards program, contact the College’s Financial Aid Office on the Toledo-area Campus at (567) 661-7343 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7343, or on the Findlay-area Campus at (567) 429-3540 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3540.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Expands Access to Higher Education Through New Partnership With Toledo Public Schools

Posted on January 2nd, 2007

Owens Community College and Toledo Public Schools are entering into a partnership in which the two organizations are creating new higher education opportunities in Lucas County. Beginning Spring Semester 2007, Owens will offer its first-ever academic courses at Rogers High School in Toledo.

“Owens Community College is honored to partner with Toledo Public Schools and open new doors for students to succeed in their educational pursuits,” said Dr. Paul Unger, Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “As an academic institution, we are continuously looking at opportunities to provide greater access to higher education. Nearly half of our students reside in Lucas County and this academic partnership is focused on making an Owens education more accessible to Lucas County residents.”

Provost Unger added, “We welcome this collaboration with Toledo Public Schools and embrace the idea of aligning our educational philosophies.”

Owens academic courses that will be made available to area residents at Rogers High School include climate and weather, composition, American history, astronomy, modern business math, mathematics of finance and introduction to literature. Classroom instruction for each of the three-credit hour courses will occur one night per week from Jan. 29 – May 11. The 14-week classes will be held from 6-9:20 p.m., Monday-Thursday, in multiple state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories within an academic wing of Rogers High School.

“This is one of many partnerships we are building to utilize and coordinate community resources toward a community of learners,” said John Foley, Interim Superintendent for Toledo Public Schools. “Partnerships such as this one with Owens Community College will continue to contribute to Toledo Public Schools developing options for students and parents to further their successful careers.”

Situated in northern Lucas County, the new Rogers High School is located at 222 McTigue Dr. in Toledo. Toledo Public Schools recently marked a milestone in the high school’s 50-year history by opening a new $38 million state-of-the-art facility for its students and the community in Aug. 2006. The 225,000 square-foot educational center features the latest in state-of-the-art multimedia capabilities and academic resources designed to stimulate academic learning through hands-on instruction and exercises. Building highlights include a planetarium, theatre, several academic laboratories and two gymnasiums. Rogers High School houses grades 9-12 and enrolls over 1,200 students.

Rogers High School – as a collaboration of faculty, administration and community – is committed to providing an opportunity for all students to pursue self-discipline and self-direction through the successful acquisition of knowledge and social skills, essential to fostering quality participation in a diverse, global society.

In addition to offering higher education on its Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens recently expanded its educational opportunities by partnering with the Putnam County Educational Service Center and making available its first-ever academic courses in Putnam County. As part of the partnership, the College began offering classes at the new Putnam County Educational Service Center Skilled Learning Center in October. In 2005, Owens entered into an agreement with the then-Medical University of Ohio (now the University of Toledo) to offer its first-ever educational classes on the Health Science Campus.

The College also has longstanding off-campus educational partnerships with Arcadia High School in Arcadia, Liberty Benton High School in Findlay, Riverdale High School in Mt. Blanchard, Springfield High School in Holland and Swanton High School in Swanton.

According to Provost Unger, Owens is continuing to explore additional locations for the College to provide even greater access to higher education throughout the region “Owens Community College is focused on meeting the needs of the surrounding communities by looking to expand the number of educational options and serving even more individuals throughout Northwest Ohio and beyond,” he stated.

Spring Semester classes at Rogers High School begin on Monday, Jan. 29. For more information about the new academic course offerings on the Rogers High School campus, call (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777.

Toledo Public Schools is recognized as a leading urban school district in the state in academic achievement as measured by the Ohio proficiency tests and is the fourth largest public school system in Ohio. The school district enrolls nearly 30,000 students and operates 41 elementary schools, seven junior high schools, eight senior high schools and various specialized learning centers.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Lift Children’s Spirits During Holiday Season

Posted on December 18th, 2006

FINDLAY – Happiness and cheer was abounding within area hospitals thanks to recent humanitarian efforts of Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus’ Student Nursing Association. More than 75 toys ranging from dolls and stuffed animals to coloring books and trucks, collected as part of a community wide drive, were given to smiling children forced to spend the holiday season in local hospitals.

“It feels great to give a little piece of holiday cheer in the form of a gift,” stated Kathy Helms of Benton Ridge, an Owens Registered Nursing student and a member of the Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association.

Among the hospitals where Owens students personally hand-delivered the charitable gifts included Blanchard Valley Regional Health Center in Findlay, Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, Lima Memorial Hospital in Lima, Mercy Hospital of Tiffin in Tiffin and Fremont Memorial Hospital in Fremont. More than 50 toys were donated to area hospital children last year.

For the Chris and Monica Roberts of Lima, parents of three-month-old Keaton Roberts, receiving a gift while staying in the hospital came as a pleasant surprise.

With excitement and anticipation of discovering what was enclosed within the bright red and green wrapping paper, Keaton’s parents unwrapped the gift and found to their astonishment their son’s favorite toy – a cute and cuddly teddy bear. “Keaton loves teddy bears,” explained a smiling Monica. “His room at home is filled with bears.”

As the teddy bear was placed on young Keaton’s lap, the once sleeping three-month-old awoke and instantly smiled with approval of his new furry friend. “Keaton, is that bear smiling at you,” said a beaming Monica.

“The joy that these Owens nursing students are bringing to children you have to spend the holidays in the hospital is beyond words,” stated the appreciative mother.

According to Craig Tobias of Defiance, Owens Registered Nursing student and President of the Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association, the amount of donations received from the community and Owens students and employees surpassed all expectations.

“The charitable donations received speaks volumes to the kindness and generosity of the surrounding communities,” said Tobias. “These toys will certainly make a world of difference for the area children who have to spend the holidays in the hospital.”

Tobias added, “Many of the Owens nursing students conduct their clinical work in these hospitals. The Student Nursing Association felt that the establishing of annual toy drive provided a great opportunity for nursing students to show our appreciation to the hospitals and to make a significant contribution to the patients.”

The Owens Student Nursing Association has a rich and storied history, serving as one of the longest active student organizations at the College. In 2005, Owens expanded its student activities opportunities to include a new Findlay-area Campus chapter of the Student Nursing Association. The organization was created for Findlay-area Campus nursing and pre-nursing students with the overall mission of providing avenues for individuals to engage in community service activities, as well as to serve as a support network for nursing students. There are currently 10 nursing students participating in the Findlay-area Campus chapter.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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FirstEnergy Foundation Contributes $25,000 to Support Owens Community College Academic Program

Posted on December 15th, 2006

Owens Community College has received a $25,000 grant donation from the FirstEnergy Foundation to support the enhancement of academic programs and foster experiential learning in the new Center for Emergency Preparedness.

The FirstEnergy Foundation and Toledo Edison are focused on seeking ways to use resources, which have a long-lasting impact on community partners throughout the region. With a vision of “The Great Good is Better Business”, the organization is dedicated to improving the welfare of the surrounding communities by supporting educational initiatives that emphasize professional development and training for educators; partnerships between schools, higher education institutions and businesses; and career exploration, proficiency and skills development for students.

“Owens Community College appreciates the commitment that the FirstEnergy Foundation has made to higher education and the future of emergency preparedness training,” said Ann Savage, Owens Executive Director of Fund Development and Foundation President. “Providing our region’s first responders with the highest level in real-world, scenario training plays a critical role in ensuring America’s safety and protection. The FirstEnergy Foundation’s generous contribution will have an immediate impact in the development of academic curriculum for the new Center for Emergency Preparedness.”

The $25,000 grant donation from the FirstEnergy Foundation will be used to develop comprehensive scenario-based training programs within multiple disciplines. Experiential training programs under creation by Owens’ School of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness include collapsed rescue, confined space, extrication and high angle rescue, among others. First responders will begin their instruction in the classroom prior to receiving hands-on training through the Center’s various state-of-the-art props.

“It is our pleasure to be able to support the students, faculty and facilities of Owens Community College, specifically to enable the academic institution to develop the curriculum and training manuals needed for each of the fire and rescue sites located at the Center for Emergency Preparedness,” said Trent Smith, President of Toledo Edison. “We are proud that this collaboration will allow us to support Owens and the community as a whole, to work together to prepare for any potential crisis situations.”

According to Tom Pack, Owens Director of the Center for Emergency Preparedness, thousands of first responders are injured while responding to emergency situations each year.

“Heightened training reduces risks and increases the level of experience, which is a key factor in safety-related decisions,” stated Pack. “Developing comprehensive curriculum, which incorporates a variety of emergency preparedness scenarios, is crucial in preparing a first responder for actual emergency situations.”

Pack added, “The Center for Emergency Preparedness’ scenario-based training will be unlike any other facility in the country because it is being created to accommodate multiple disciplines. Police, fire and emergency services personnel from Ohio and beyond will all be able to utilize the facility for either specialized or concurrent emergency preparedness training, which is unprecedented.”

Owens has been at the forefront in providing educational training to local police and safety forces for over three decades. In 2004, the College broke ground for a new $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness.

Phase one of Owens’ initial project, which was completed in 2005, included the installation of an infrastructure of water lines, gas lines, roads and parking lots, a driving pad, security fencing and fiber-optic cable.

Earlier this year, second phase construction was completed on the 110-acre Center for Emergency Preparedness and features full-size, state-of-the-art training props, including a flashover simulator, five-story burn building, tanker truck fire simulator, propane tank burn simulator, collapsed building tunnel system, confined space rescue area, gas station with car burn, dive and rescue pond, and car extrication.

Additional phases will consist of an emergency operations center, command and simulation center, mock city with retail, business and residential facades, and a variety of other simulation scenarios, including a fuel spill prop, rail and truck hazmat props, and a fire behavior lab area with a flashover container prop.

The Center, located at the convergence of Tracy and Walbridge roads, will also include Ohio’s Third Frontier Network – the nation’s most advanced fiber-optic network for research, education and economic development. An initiative of the Ohio Board of Regents, the network at Owens will allow area fire and police departments to conduct exercises, via distance learning, on a variety of simulated terrorist incidents, emergency hazards and natural disasters. Owens will open the Center in the spring of 2007.

The College currently offers associate degrees and certificate programs in Fire Science Technology, Criminal Justice Technology, Emergency Medical Management, Emergency Management and Planning, and Public Safety Communications. Courses offered within the public safety and emergency preparedness curricula include: criminal law and procedure, patrol operations, crime scene processing, fire fighting tactics and command, hazardous materials, fire inspection principles, and first responder. Owens also has a longstanding partnership with both Toledo Police and Fire Departments, serving as the training site for the two organizational academies.

The Owens Community College Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $1.9 million in assets. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 22 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties.

The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is cultivating gift initiatives by targeting successful alumni, business and industry members who are committed to investing and supporting the educational needs of current and future Owens students. The Foundation’s focus allows Owens to continue offering affordable tuition, ensuring the College’s academic position as the best investment in Northwest Ohio.

FirstEnergy Corp. is a diversified energy company headquartered in Akron. Its seven electric utility operating companies comprise the nation’s fifth largest investor-owned electric system, serving 4.5 million customers within 36,100 square miles of Ohio, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Names New Vice President of Workforce and Community Services

Posted on December 12th, 2006

Owens Community College has named Michael Bankey as the new Vice President of Workforce and Community Services. His responsibilities will include overseeing all workforce training and corporate consulting programs and activities within the College’s Workforce and Community Services.

In addition, his new position will entail fostering partnerships between Owens and business and industry leaders within Northwest Ohio, as well as throughout the state, region and nation, with the goal of identifying opportunities for the College to further meet the needs of today’s ever-changing workforce through education and training services. Bankey will also look to foster enhanced learning through personal enrichment, continuing education and professional development programs by aligning the Workforce and Community Services’ mission with local education, business and community organizations.

“Michael Bankey is an outstanding leader who shares Owens Community College’s commitment to excellence in higher education,” said Dr. Paul Unger, Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “He brings to the College a distinguished academic career and extensive knowledge and experience in higher education and workforce development that will heighten our Workforce and Community Services’ efforts in providing greater access to education and training opportunities throughout the region.”

Since September 2003, Bankey has served as the Assistant Dean of Professional and Community Education at Bowling Green State University. While at Bowling Green, he was responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and overall leadership of Professional and Community Education within Continuing and Extended Education, including business and industry, computer and technology, conferences, State Fire School, and community education.

Prior to his position as Bowling Green’s Assistant Dean of Professional and Community Education, Bankey served as the Assistant Dean for Lifelong Learning at Kent State University, where he oversaw the strategic development and overall leadership for the Division of Lifelong Learning within the College of Continuing Studies, including both credit and non-credit offerings.

His professional and community involvement includes serving as Chair of the Business and Industry Special Interest Group for the Ohio Continuing Higher Education Association. Bankey, a certified networker, is also a member of the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce and serves on the organization’s Business Council.

The Bowling Green resident holds master’s degrees in Social Agency Counseling from the University of Dayton and in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University, respectively, and a bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Findlay. He is currently pursuing his doctorate studies.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Deliver Toys to Area Hospital Children, Dec. 14

Posted on December 12th, 2006

FINDLAY – 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 two 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 Thursday, Dec. 14.

Beginning at 9:30 a.m., the Owens Student Nursing Association will wrap the various toys in an array of colorful paper in the Findlay-area Campus’ Nursing Lab. At 10:30 a.m., the members will divide up into groups and depart for five area hospitals to personally hand deliver the charitable gifts. Among the hospitals where Owens students will make visits are Blanchard Valley Regional Health Center at 11 a.m. (145 W. Wallace St.) in Findlay, Wood County Hospital at 12:45 p.m. (950 W. Wooster St.) in Bowling Green, Lima Memorial Hospital at 11:30 a.m. (1001 Bellefontaine Ave.) in Lima, Mercy Hospital of Tiffin at 11:30 a.m. (485 W. Market St.) in Tiffin and Fremont Memorial Hospital at 11:30 a.m. (715 S. Taft Ave.) in Fremont. More than 50 toys were donated to area hospital children last year.

“The amount of donations received within the last two weeks has been amazing,” said Craig Tobias, Owens Registered Nursing student and President of the Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association. “These charitable donations will make a world of difference for the area children who must spend the holidays in the hospital.”

Tobias added, “Many of the Owens nursing students conduct their clinical work in these hospitals. This toy drive allows us to show our appreciation for that and to make a significant contribution to the patients.”

The Owens Student Nursing Association has a rich and storied history, serving as one of the longest active student organizations at the College. In 2005, Owens expanded its student activities opportunities to include a new Findlay-area Campus chapter of the Student Nursing Association. The organization was created for Findlay-area Campus nursing and pre-nursing students with the overall mission of providing avenues for individuals to engage in community service activities, as well as to serve as a support network for nursing students. There are currently 10 nursing students participating in the Findlay-area Campus chapter.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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

Posted on December 5th, 2006

Five hundred seventeen candidates for graduation, including 81 from the Findlay-area Campus, will receive their degrees and certificates during the 28th annual Fall Commencement at Owens Community College on Thursday, Dec. 14. The commencement will begin at 7 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the College’s Toledo-area Campus.

Dr. Robert C. Helmer, President of Lourdes College, will serve as the keynote speaker for the Fall Commencement.

“Owens Community College is extremely honored to have Dr. Helmer with us to celebrate the academic achievements of our graduates,” said Christa Adams, Ph.D, President of Owens Community College. “Dr. Helmer is an accomplished leader, both within the community and higher education. His insightful message will serve as an inspiration to the College’s graduating class as they become the educators, scientists, health care professionals, technologists, musicians, skilled laborers and business leaders of tomorrow.”

Dr. Helmer became President of Lourdes College in January 2004, having served as Acting President during 2003.

He joined the faculty of Lourdes College as an Assistant Professor in 1996. In 2000, Dr. Helmer was named Associate Professor in the Department of History before his appointment as Vice President for Academic Affairs in 2001.

Dr. Helmer serves on the Board of Directors of several organizations, including the Sylvania Area Chamber of Commerce, the Toledo Symphony, COSI, the Greater Toledo Urban League, the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges, the Ohio College Association, and the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities. He is also a member of the Toledo Rotary Club.

Prior to coming to Lourdes College, Dr. Helmer served as Teaching Fellow and Lecturer at Marquette University and also held teaching positions at Indiana University and Ancilla College. He is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and The Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium. A resident of Sylvania, he received his doctorate from Marquette University and his law degree from the University of Toledo.

Beatriz Steen, an Office Administration major, has been selected as the Owens class representative and will address the graduates during the Fall Commencement ceremony.

An honors student at Owens, Steen describes herself as a dedicated, loyal and easy-going individual. Her favorite hobbies include reading, spending time with family and traveling.

Steen is an active member of her church and spends a portion of her time participating in choir. In addition, she is a member of the College’s Phi Theta Kappa, Kappa Beta Delta and Chi Alpha Epsilon honor societies.

Steen credits the educational success she has achieved to her supportive family.

“I wanted to make a better life for my daughter, Isabel, and I,” she said. “She was a driving force in my journey. Also, I couldn’t have finished my degree without the support of my mom and stepdad, Teresa and Feliz Cortez, and my dad and stepmom, Rudy and Josie Chapa.”

The focus of her commencement speech will address her personal success story as a non-traditional student, as well as highlight five useful life lessons for Owens graduates illustrated by the journey of Dorothy Gale in “The Wizard of Oz”.

“Set goals and follow through with them,” she states in her speech. “Dorothy knew she needed to meet with The Wizard of Oz who lived in the Emerald City to be able to return to Kansas. She set a goal and accomplished that goal. Wonderful opportunities lie before us. Set a goal for yourself and don’t stop reaching for it.”

In the future, Steen envisions working in a successful organization as an executive assistant. She currently resides in Findlay.

More than 2,700 family, friends and relatives are expected to attend the Fall Commencement, which is open to the public.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Names New Executive Director of Fund Development

Posted on November 1st, 2006

Owens Community College is strengthening its leadership by naming Ann Savage to the position of Executive Director of Fund Development. Her responsibilities will include overseeing all facets of the College’s fund development initiatives and activities.

In addition to being named Executive Director of Fund Development, Savage will assume the leadership role of President for the Owens Foundation. Additional responsibilities will entail fostering partnerships between Owens and business and community leaders who mirror Owens’ mission of strengthening the surrounding communities by supporting the educational needs of current and future students. Savage will also serve as an Ex-Officio Board of Director on the Alumni Association and work with Alumni Relations to cultivate long-term relationships with Owens’ alumni supporters.

“Ann Savage is an outstanding leader who shares Owens Community College’s commitment to providing access to a higher educational experience that changes students’ lives and strengthens the surrounding communities,” said Christa Adams, Ph.D., President of Owens Community College. “She brings a dedication and passion to the academic setting, which is reflected in her professional and community service. Ann’s selection as the new Executive Director of Fund Development will have a significant impact on this College’s educational future.”

Since March 2004, Savage has served as the Director of Development for the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center in Fremont. While serving as the Director of Development, she was responsible for directing the fundraising strategy for the nation’s first presidential center. Additionally, Savage oversaw the center’s membership program, mail solicitations, major donors, grant writing, project support and support for special events.

Prior to her position at the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center, Savage served as the Director of Development for Mt. San Antonio College Foundation in Walnut, Calif. from 2002-04. She was responsible for the coordination of fund development aspects related to Mt. San Antonio College, which included cultivating donors and sponsors, recruiting new board members and managing the scholarship program, among other areas.

Her professional and community involvement includes membership with the Ohio Chapter of Kiwanis International, the Association of Fundraising Professionals and the Association of American Museums. Savage also was active in the 2005 Leadership Sandusky County organization and held a previous appointment to the California State Workforce Investment Board, where she served as Chair of the California State Youth Council.

Savage received both bachelors and master’s degrees in Political Science from the University of Albany and a juris doctor in Education Law from the Loyola Law School in Los Angeles. The Fremont resident also has obtained extensive educational training from the Grantsmanship Center Training Program.

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $1.9 million in assets. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over $1 million in scholarships and program support. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 22 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties.

The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is cultivating gift initiatives, targeting successful alumni, business and industry members who are committed to investing and supporting the educational needs of current and future Owens students. The Foundation’s focus allows Owens to continue offering affordable tuition, ensuring the College’s academic position as the best investment in Northwest Ohio. The Owens Foundation awarded over $328,000 in scholarships and program support this past year.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College and Lake Local School District to Foster Student Success Through New Educational Initiatives

Posted on November 1st, 2006

Owens Community College and the Lake Local School District are entering into a new partnership in which the two organizations are creating several educational initiatives intended to foster enhanced learning and academic success for students at the respective institutions.

Among the initiatives the two organizations are planning include the creation of a preparing to succeed in college program, an early childhood education literacy enhancement program and a hands-on transportation maintenance and repair program.

“Owens Community College is honored to partner with the Lake Local School District and open new doors for students to succeed in their educational pursuits,” said Dr. Paul Unger, Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “These initiative represents institutional collaboration and academic resource sharing at its best and we welcome the idea of aligning our educational missions and ultimately strengthening the surrounding communities.”

According Jim Witt, Superintendent of Lake Local School District, Lake Local Schools is excited to work with Owens Community College on these collaborative initiatives and help students succeed. “Owens Community College is a leader in higher education at the local, state and national levels and our school district is thrilled about the positive outcomes that will result from this partnership,” he stated

As part of the collaboration, Owens will in the near future offer Lake High School students the opportunity to participate in a preparing to succeed in college class. The eight-week academic course will provide students with an introduction to college, as well as educate them on certain student and personal skills needed to be successful in the college environment. Areas of focus will include study skills, goal setting, decision-making, time management and standardize test-taking skills for college entrance exams.

In addition, the College is planning to expand upon its already established partnership with Lake Local School District through the OhioReads program by incorporating several additional literacy practices into the kindergarten through third grade classroom. Owens students from the Early Childhood Education Technology program will apply the knowledge and skills obtained in the college classroom and work with Lake’s two elementary schools in developing new emergent literacy techniques.

Lake Local School District will also work with Owens’ Transportation Technologies and provide students from the Automotive Technology and Diesel Technology programs the opportunity to diagnose, correct and repair school transportation vehicles with various mechanical issues. Servicing the vehicles will enable the Owens students to build upon the foundation of educational coursework initially taught within the college classroom.

Finally, both Lake and Owens are planning to collaborate on future projects involving the High Schools That Work (HSTW) initiative, which focuses on the conviction that most students can master rigorous academic and career/technical studies if school leaders and teachers create an environment that motivates students to make the effort to succeed.

“The Board of Education is extremely appreciative to Owens Community College and their commitment to Lake Local School District,” said Eric Hirzel, Board of Education President of Lake Local School District. “Owens is not only a neighbor, but one of the most progressive leaders in higher education throughout Northwest Ohio and the Midwest.”

Hirzel added, “Our responsibility as a board is to create a high value educational experience for Lake Local School District students and this partnership will play a huge role in furthering the learning process.”

Located in northern Wood County, Lake Local Schools encompasses the villages of Walbridge, Millbury and Lake Township. The main campus, which houses grades 2-12, is located near the middle of the district and easily accessible from all communities, while grades K-1 are located in nearby Walbridge. The school district enrolls 1,716 students.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Foundation Appoints Board of Directors to Leadership Positions

Posted on October 26th, 2006

Owens Community College has named J. Michael Wilder of Findlay, General Counsel and Secretary for Marathon Petroleum Company LLC, to serve as the new Chairman for the Owens Foundation. Wilder replaces Rasesh H. Shah of Holland, President of The Andersons Rail Group, who served as Foundation Chairman for the previous two years.

In addition, the College’s Foundation Board of Directors approved Arthur H. Smith of Maumee, retired Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary for Libbey Inc., as Vice Chairman, and Thomas Pounds of Maumee, President and Publisher for the “Toledo Free Press” as Secretary to leadership positions for a one-year term. John W. Christy of Toledo, Vice President and Assistant General Counsel for Owens Corning, was re-elected to serve a second year as the Foundation’s Treasurer.

Four Board of Directors were re-elected to their positions during the annual meeting and will serve three-year terms. Re-elected Board of Directors includes Charles L. Bills of Findlay, President and Chief Executive Officer for Findlay’s Tall Timbers Distribution Center Inc.; James F. Carter of Grand Rapids, Wood County Commissioner; J. Michael Wilder; and Rasesh H. Shah.

“The Owens Community College Foundation has assembled an outstanding group of leaders who value the importance of a quality college education and the many benefits of lifelong learning,” said Brian Paskvan, Owens Foundation Interim President and Chief Executive Officer. “Each officer brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and dedication to their position and will play a significant role in the Foundation enhancing programs and services for current and future students.”

Paskvan added, “Our number one goal and priority is supporting Owens students in their pursuit of academic excellence.”

The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $1.9 million in assets. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over $1 million in scholarships and program support. The Foundation Board of Directors currently is comprised of 22 community leaders from Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties.

The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is cultivating gift initiatives, targeting successful alumni, business and industry members who are committed to investing and supporting the educational needs of current and future Owens students. The Foundation’s focus allows Owens to continue offering affordable tuition, ensuring the College’s academic position as the best investment in Northwest Ohio. The Owens Foundation awarded over $328,000 in scholarships and program support this past year.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Alumni Association Appoints New Board of Directors and Officers

Posted on October 18th, 2006

Owens Community College’s Alumni Association has appointed area residents to leadership positions as new officers and board of directors. The appointments were made during the Alumni Association’s recent organizational and annual meetings.

The newest community leader chosen to serve as an Alumni Association board of director is Carolyn Chapman of Holland. She was appointed to a one-year term.

Chapman joins two other recent additions to the board of directors who were elected to three-year terms. Newly elected board of directors are Brooke Affholder of Sylvania and Christi Herder of Deshler. Sam Harden of Toledo, President of the College’s Student Government, will also serve a one-year term as a board of director and represent the Owens student body.

In addition, the Alumni Association board of directors appointed four current members to new leadership positions. These members are David Seeger of Maumee, Andrea Gurcsik of Maumee, Laura Moore of Perrysburg and Janet Meacham of Rossford, and they will assume the positions of President, Vice President, Executive Director and Past President, respectively. Debra Green of Graytown will continue as the Alumni Association’s Secretary and Steven Cotner of Perrysburg will hold the position as Treasurer.

“The Owens Community College Alumni Association has an outstanding group of individuals who are committed to supporting the College’s mission, which is the success of our students,” said Laura Moore, Owens Director of Alumni Relations. “Owens’ alumni are the heart of our Association’s identity. The Alumni Association is a wonderful opportunity for fellow alums to renew old friendships, as well as build upon Owens’ educational tradition by making a difference in the lives of current and future students through educational outreach activities and programs.”

Moore added, “With each new academic year, the Alumni Association looks to provide even more value-added programs and services with the goal of sharing with the surrounding communities the importance of a quality education and the many benefits of lifelong learning.”

The Alumni Association and its 19-member board of directors are dedicated to engaging alumni and students in programs, events and services that energize interest, build loyalty and heighten support of the College.

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

The Alumni Association is open to all graduates or students who have successfully completed any credit or non-credit course at Owens. New members have the opportunity to serve on the organization’s board of directors or committees, utilize the Student Health and Activities Center, Common Computer labs and Library services, and attend a variety of social and networking events.

Throughout the academic year, Owens’ Alumni Association engages in a variety of events, activities and endeavors, benefiting both the College and Northwest Ohio. Among the Association’s initiatives are continuing to promote growth for the Owens Alumni Legacy Endowed Scholarship Program and hosting its annual Toledo Mud Hens night and whitewater rafting trip to West Virginia. The organization also annually honors area police, fire and emergency medical professionals as part of the Outstanding Service Awards celebration. The awards recognized exemplary levels of public service within the surrounding Northwest Ohio communities.

During the spring, the Association sponsors its annual Golf Classic. This past year, the 32-team event raised $43,824 to benefit scholarship endeavors. As part of a collaborative effort in 2006 with the College’s Student Government and in conjunction with Books-A-Million at The Town Center in Levis Commons, the Alumni Association accepted gently-used backpacks and/or new school supplies, which were then given to low-income elementary school children during the new school year. The community service activity, now in its third year, is titled “Backpack to the Future”.

The Alumni Association board of directors also includes Mark Carr of Perrysburg, Allen Gunn of Perrysburg, Dr. Angela Jackson of Millbury, Kaye Koevenig of Toledo, Susan Litten of Maumee, Michael Rickard of Toledo, Brian Paskvan of Bowling Green, Allison Schroeder of Swanton, William Steele of Toledo and Frank Weaver of Rossford.

For additional information about the College’s Alumni Association, or to become a member, contact the Alumni Relations Office at (567) 661-7410 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7410. Individuals also can obtain Alumni Association information by accessing Owens’ website at www.owens.edu.

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Owens Community College Receives $1.7 Million Federal Grant To Enhance and Foster Student Success

Posted on October 12th, 2006

Owens Community College has been selected as one of only 34 academic institutions nationwide to receive a $1,647,756 Title III, Part A, Strengthening Institutions Grant from the U.S. Department of Education Office of Postsecondary Education. The grant will be used to enhance and expand educational resources designed to support student success.

The $1,647,756 in federal funding is the largest grant or gift ever received in the College’s 41-year history.

“Owens Community College’s selection as a lead institution demonstrates the College’s responsiveness to continuing to meet Northwest Ohio’s educational needs and ensuring that every student succeeds in pursuit of their academic aspirations,” said Dr. Paul Unger, Executive Vice President and Provost of Owens Community College. “Comprehensive learning support services are a crucial component in supporting the teaching and learning process and ultimately strengthening a student’s academic performance and success. Receiving the Strengthening Institutions Planning Grant will afford Owens the opportunity to enhance and expand its educational support services and resources, which will compliment the College’s many instructional learning activities.”

Title III Strengthening Institutions is a federally funded program that began as part of the 1965 Higher Education Act, which was established in an effort to strengthen the educational resources for colleges and universities nationwide and provide financial assistance to students in postsecondary and higher education.

The Title III grant initiative is intended to strengthen institutions of higher education that serve a high proportion of students who are disadvantaged or members of minority groups. Each designated grant recipient is chosen following a rigorous selection process in which applying institutions are reviewed and ranked on their strategies for achieving growth and self-sufficiency through academic quality, institutional management and fiscal responsibility.

Owens’ initiatives focus on aligning educational resources and services to support student success, ensuring that each individual succeeds in their established academic goals. Highlighted goals within the endeavor included fostering a strong student connection with the College that begins prior to the first day of class and beyond, as well as implementing a comprehensive process for assessing student-learning outcomes.

Initiatives expected to be funded as a result of the five-year grant will include adding supplemental instruction tutors for developmental and at-risk students, as well as providing training opportunities for 20 advisors at the National Academic Advising Institute, 20 freshman seminar faculty at the First-Year Experience Institute, and 42 faculty and advisors in web-based advising features. Additionally, Owens will initiate an ePortfolio system for archiving evidence of student learning outcomes, structuring academic and career pathways, and modeling a statewide system for improving transfer accountability.

The College’s strategies are based on research conducted by Dr. John N. Gardner of the National Resource Center for First-Year Experience and Students in Transition.

According to Provost Unger, the ultimate goal of this project will be to establish and implement a first-year experience program for students, which will be led by Owens Vice President of Academic Services, Dr. Bruce Busby.

“This initiative’s overall focus is to help students succeed in their educational pursuits by providing an environment where they feel a part of the campus community from the very start of their college experience,” explained Provost Unger. “Owens is extremely grateful to the U.S. Department of Education for promoting and supporting student success.”

The U.S. Department of Education was established with the overall mission of ensuring that every student in this country has access to a quality education and empowering states, school districts, schools and parents to serve the needs of America’s students.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus To Offer Educational Opportunities in Putnam County

Posted on October 10th, 2006

FINDLAY – Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus is expanding its educational opportunities by partnering with the Putnam County Educational Service Center and offering its first-ever academic courses in Putnam County. As part of the partnership, Owens will offer four classes at the new Putnam County Educational Service Center Skilled Learning Center in mid-October.

“Owens Community College has a longstanding commitment to providing students with access to enriched learning opportunities,” said Judy Ennis, Owens Executive Dean of the Findlay-area Campus. “Expanding the Findlay-area Campus’ academic curriculum through the offering of classes in Putnam County will open new doors for individuals to achieve their career aspirations.”

Ennis added, “We welcome this collaboration with the Putnam County Educational Service Center and embrace the idea of aligning our educational philosophies of serving students and the surrounding communities.”

According to Dr. Jan Osborn, Superintendent of the Putnam County Educational Service Center, before the opening of the Putnam County Educational Service Center Skilled Learning Center, there was a physical absence of higher educational opportunities in Putnam County.

“With Owens Community College’s support and help in conjunction with the Skilled Learning Center opening, we are now able to offer the Putnam County community an opportunity to receive a quality higher education locally,” he stated. “Many of our residents commute to the Owens Findlay-area Campus, and some even to the Toledo-area Campus, but commuting is not an option for every individual. The partnership between Owens and the Putnam County Educational Service Center will strengthen the Putnam County community and its connection to higher education by giving local individuals and employers a nearby college experience.”

Owens will make available academic courses in Supervision 101, Digital Photography, Bob Ross Art and Project Management to area residents at the new Putnam County Educational Service Center Skilled Learning Center in Ottawa. Classes will be offered on weekday evenings and on Saturdays.

Supervision 101, which will be offered from 6-8 p.m. on Thursdays, will teach the basics of supervision in today’s modern business environment. The program will run Oct. 19 – Dec. 14 and is designed to provide new supervisors with the tools needed to be an effective leader and the seasoned supervisor with time tested material.

The Digital Photography classes will be available to area residents from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesdays. The course is divided into three separate sections and will take students through basic, intermediate and advanced learning of photography. Individuals will acquire an array of digital photography knowledge ranging from the basic steps to the advanced tricks of the trade utilized by highly skilled professionals. The program will run Oct. 18 – Dec. 20.

Owens’ Bob Ross Art course, which will occur from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays, will provide students with the opportunity to receive hands on learning, highlighted by a variety of artistic painting techniques. Classes will occur Nov. 18 – March 10.

The Project Management class will provide attendees with information to map out a project from its inception to a finished product. Owens’ business course will occur from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturdays. Management topics will include insight into project focus, efficiency and effectiveness. The program will run Oct. 21 – Nov. 11.

The new $3.5 million Putnam County Educational Service Center Skilled Learning Center recently opened its doors with the overall mission of providing educational programs that meet the ever-changing needs of area residents and the surrounding communities in Putnam County. Such academic opportunities include both college-level courses as well as professional development for all Putnam County educators and their respective school districts. The facility houses the county Office of Education and six multifunctional classrooms for experiential learning.

According to Ennis, the Findlay-area Campus is already exploring additional academic course options for the upcoming spring. “The College is planning to offer seven additional classes, including leadership training, genealogy and cake decorating, and will continue to look to expand the number of academic programs and serve even more individuals throughout Putnam County and beyond,” she stated.

For more information, call (567) 429-3604 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3604.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Names New Early Learning Center Manager

Posted on October 6th, 2006

FINDLAY – Owens Community College has named Deanna Haan the new Manager of the Early Learning Center on the Findlay-area Campus. Her responsibilities will include overseeing all activities and initiatives related to the Findlay-area Campus’ Early Learning Center.

In addition, her new position will entail supervising the Center’s staff and overseeing curriculum planning, as well as leading the Parent/Teacher Association and/or Parent Advisory Board in accordance with national accreditation standards. Haan will also work with the College’s Early Childhood Education program in planning Early Learning Center experiences and coordinate the facility’s usage in engaging students through hands-on experiential learning.

Additional responsibilities will include fostering partnerships between Owens and area residents within the surrounding communities and engaging and educating parents in the importance of a child’s early learning development.

“Deanna Haan is an outstanding leader who shares Owens Community College’s mission in strengthening the surrounding communities through access to educational opportunities,” said Judy Ennis, Owens Executive Dean of the Findlay-area Campus. “The new Early Learning Center is a great educational addition to the Findlay-area Campus and to children and parents throughout the region. Deanna brings extensive background and experiences in child care development to Owens and will play an invaluable role in leading the College’s Early Learning Center and meeting the community needs for the latest in innovative child care services.”

Since 1994, Haan has served as the Child Development Coordinator for the Findlay Family YMCA. While with the Findlay Family YMCA, she was responsible for overseeing membership development, satisfaction and retention. Additionally, she supervised daily program and building operations for the Child Development Center, which enrolled over 300 children. Haan also recruited, trained and supervised the YMCA’s volunteers, as well as over 75 staff in the delivery of membership services and child care programs.

Her position included initiating well-rounded and developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities, consistent with the YMCA philosophy, for all child care programs, and planned and implemented several community events, such as the Lights on After School, the March of Dimes Wonder Walk and the Week of the Young Child.

Haan’s community involvement includes serving on the Millstream Career and Technology Center Advisory Committee, the Fort Findlay Playground Committee and the Findlay Service League. A resident of Findlay, Haan earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Purdue University.

The Owens Findlay-area Campus opened the new Early Learning Center this past year and has enrollment for approximately 40 children – nearly tripling the previous facility’s capacity. The Center cost $536,761 and includes two classrooms specifically intended to encourage learning and nurturing. Each room consists of a learning center that features computers, math and science, blocks and construction, creative art, woodworking, reading and writing.

Additional features of the 2,990 square-foot building include a warming kitchen, a lunch room, an office, a children’s restroom and an adult restroom. Windows, allowing for natural lighting, are highlighted throughout the building, as well as an area designated as an art studio. The new facility also allows the staff to display children’s projects so that parents, community and the children themselves can view their creative masterpieces.

Owens’ Findlay-area Campus has been providing quality child care to the Hancock County region since 1993. The program was created with the overall mission of offering excellence in child care services by providing the latest in innovative teaching and learning methods. Child care services on the Findlay-area Campus are available to children ages 2 Ω to 5 of Owens employees and students, as well as community residents. Owens’ Early Learning Center is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. year-round.

In addition, the College’s Early Learning Center serves as an educational setting for the Early Childhood Education program. Students enrolled within Early Childhood Education have the opportunity to apply knowledge, obtained within the classroom, in a real-world setting by working with children enrolled at the Early Learning Center. Many child care teachers and directors throughout the surrounding communities have begun their instructional careers at the Owens Early Learning Center.

Earlier this year, Owens’ Early Learning Center also became one of a select few schools across the United States to introduce a new philosophy, which centers on every child being afforded the right to grow and learn in a favorable environment. Named after a small town in Italy, the new philosophy, titled Reggio Emilia, stresses reflection, practice and further reflection, and coincides with the College’s ideals in believing that children’s unique ability allows them to express their learning in hundreds of different ways.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Ohio Governor Reappoints Three Community Leaders To Owens Board of Trustees Positions

Posted on October 2nd, 2006

Ohio Gov. Bob Taft has reappointed three Northwest Ohio community leaders to the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, Dr. Ronald A. McMaster of Perrysburg and RJ Molter of Woodville will serve six-year terms on the College’s Board of Trustees ending in 2012.

“Owens Community College has an outstanding group of Board of Trustees members who value the importance of providing access to a quality college education and the many benefits of lifelong learning,” said Christa Adams, Ph.D., President of Owens Community College. “Each individual is passionate about higher education and engaged with the College’s employees and students. We are fortunate to have such dedicated leaders who want to make a difference in the lives of others.”

Libbe was initially appointed to the College’s Board of Trustees in Sept. 1992. He is a Co-founder of Rudolph/Libbe Inc. and former Secretary/Treasurer of Rudolph/Libbe Companies. In addition to his Board of Trustees involvement, Libbe is a member of the College’s Foundation Board of Directors. He earned bachelor’s degrees in Secondary Education and Mathematics from Bowling Green State University.

Initially appointed in March 1993, Dr. McMaster is the President of McMaster Motor Co. and McMaster Fuel Ltd. Retired from GlassTech Inc. as Vice President of Corporate Development, he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Ohio State University and a doctoral degree from the University of Michigan, all in Mechanical Engineering. Dr. McMaster currently serves as the Owens Board of Trustees Chair.

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

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

In addition to Libbe, Dr. McMaster and Molter, Owens Board of Trustees members include John G. Ault of Perrysburg, John Moore of Holland, Carl R. Patterson of Findlay, H. Richard Rowe of Findlay, Jack T. Sculfort of Perrysburg and Diana H. Talmage of Toledo.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Delivers Backpacks and Supplies To Area Elementary School Children

Posted on September 25th, 2006

Owens Community College’s Alumni Association and Student Government, in conjunction with Books-A-Million in Perrysburg, recently brightened many children’s lives through a unique community service endeavor titled, “Backpack to the Future”. Over 250 backpacks and nearly 3,200 school supply items collected throughout the summer months were recently donated to several area elementary schools and organizations, which included Northview Primary School in Findlay, the Community Learning Centers of Wood County, and Toledo Public Schools’ Lagrange Elementary School, Fulton Elementary School and Chase Elementary School.

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

Koevenig added, “We look forward to continuing the ‘Backpack to the Future’ program in the coming years so that even more children may continue to benefit from such a worthy cause.”

Over the past four months, “Backpack to the Future” accepted gently-used or new backpacks and new school supplies from area residents to assist underprivileged 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.

“I want to thank Owens Community College for the donation of these school supplies,” said Warren Fauver, Director of the Community Learning Centers of Wood County. “It is really important that all children have the necessary supplies when beginning a new school year, ensuring that each person has the same opportunity and resources for success. The backpacks and school supplies create an excitement among the children and I really appreciate Owens Community College’s support in wanting to make a difference in their lives.”

In addition to the donated supplies, the program collected nearly $1,000 from community members. The charitable donations will go toward the purchase of even more school supplies.

“My favorite thing is the backpack,” said Miguel, a kindergartener at Toledo Public Schools’ Fulton Elementary School. “But I’m exited about the markers, too, because I’ve never had a marker before.”

According to Laura Moore, Owens Director of Alumni Relations, “Backpack to the Future” represents one of many outreach activities that the Alumni Association has initiated within the past few years.

“The Alumni Association’s focus as an organization is to provide value-added programs and services that support the Owens mission and strengthen the surrounding communities,” stated Moore. “With the continued efforts and support by Books-A-Million, the donations achieved record totals, which is a great feeling.”

The Owens Alumni Association and Student Government 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 550 backpacks and more than 7,000 school supplies to benefit underprivileged children throughout Northwest Ohio.

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

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.

Founded in 1917 as a street corner newsstand in Florence, Ala., Books-A-Million Inc. has grown to become the premier book retailing chain in the Southeastern United States, and the third largest book retailer in the nation. Based in Birmingham, Ala., the company currently operates more than 200 stores in 19 states and the District of Columbia.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Employees and Students Spend Day Helping Others As Part of United Way’s ‘Day of Caring’

Posted on September 18th, 2006

Fifteen Owens Community College employees and students recently spent an afternoon at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Perrysburg volunteering their time trimming, weeding and watering flower pots as part of the United Way’s “Day of Caring”. The Owens group was among more than 200 volunteers and 20 organizations throughout Wood, Lucas and Ottawa counties that were matched with area non-profit organizations, working on various outreach initiatives and projects designed to strengthen the surrounding communities.

For Owens employee Lynda Hoffman, Manager of the Writing Center, the time spent volunteering at Hospice of Northwest Ohio represented a chance to give back to an organization that provided her family comfort during her grandfather’s final days.

“Hospice of Northwest Ohio meant a lot to our family and was a comforting place during a very difficult time,” Hoffman stated. “This is my first time back and it’s nice to bring a little joy and happiness to both the members and their families. Serving the community is part of Owens’ mission and that is certainly what the United Way’s ‘Day of Caring’ is all about.”

In addition to trimming, weeding and watering flower pots, Owens employees and students helped with mulching trees and shrubs, and relocating perennials as Hospice of Northwest Ohio members and their families watched on a sunny, late summer afternoon day.

“The gardens at Hospice of Northwest Ohio is great place for diversion and to get away from life’s troubles for awhile,” said Jane Murphy, Garden Coordinator for Hospice of Northwest Ohio. “I really appreciate Owens Community College employees and students taking time out of their day to volunteer. They brought a lot of smiles to our members just by their presence and I am extremely grateful.”

The College will kickoff its own annual Community Giving Campaign on Oct. 16. Monies raised as a result of the campaign will impact over 200 community, health, support, environmental and educational non-profit agencies throughout Northwest Ohio. The two-week campaign will conclude on Oct. 27. Last year’s campaign raised nearly $16,000 for area organizations.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Delivers Backpacks and Supplies To Area Elementary School Children, Sept. 13-14

Posted on September 13th, 2006

Owens Community College’s Alumni Association and Student Government, in conjunction with Books-A-Million in Perrysburg, are brightening many children’s lives through a unique community service endeavor titled, “Backpack to the Future”. Over 250 backpacks and nearly 3,200 school supply items collected throughout the summer months are being donated to 10 area elementary schools during the month of September.

Beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 13 the Owens representatives will deliver backpacks and supplies to Toledo Public Schools’ Lagrange Elementary School (1001 N. Erie St.) at 2 p.m. Owens representatives will make their final stops of the week on Thursday, Sept. 14 at Northview Primary School in Findlay (133 Lexington Ave.) at 10 a.m. and at Rossford’s Glenwood Elementary School (8950 Avenue Rd.) at 3:30 p.m. In the coming weeks, Owens will also donate backpacks and school supplies to Toledo Public Schools’ Fulton Elementary School. The College has already delivered donated items to Toledo Public Schools’ Chase Elementary School.

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

Koevenig added, “We look forward to continuing the ‘Backpack to the Future’ event in the coming years so that even more children may continue to benefit from such a worthy cause.”

Over the past four months, “Backpack to the Future” accepted gently-used or new backpacks and new school supplies from area residents to assist underprivileged 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 event also collected nearly $1,000 from community members. The charitable donations will go toward the purchase of school supplies.

According to Laura Moore, Owens Director of Alumni Relations, “Backpack to the Future” represents one of many outreach activities that the Alumni Association has initiated within the past few years.

“The Alumni Association’s focus as an organization is to provide value-added programs and services that support the Owens mission and strengthen the surrounding communities,” stated Moore. “With the continued efforts and support by Books-A-Million, the donations achieved record totals, which is a great feeling.”

The Owens Alumni Association and Student Government 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 550 backpacks and more than 7,000 school supplies to benefit underprivileged children throughout Northwest Ohio.

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

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.

Founded in 1917 as a street corner newsstand in Florence, Ala., Books-A-Million Inc. has grown to become the premier book retailing chain in the Southeastern United States, and the third largest book retailer in the nation. Based in Birmingham, Ala., the company currently operates more than 200 stores in 19 states and the District of Columbia.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Names New Center for Emergency Preparedness Director

Posted on September 12th, 2006

Owens Community College has named Thomas Pack the Director of the College’s new $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness. His responsibilities will include overseeing all instructional programs and activities within the state-of-the-art facility, which is designed to serve as a state, regional and national education and resource center for public safety and emergency training.

In addition, his new position will entail the development and implementation of the Center’s educational and training programs for first responders, Owens students and contract personnel on the local, state, regional and national levels. Pack will also serve as a liaison between the School of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and the Center for Emergency Preparedness and coordinate the development of multiple forms of training delivery, including web and video-based instruction.

Additional responsibilities will include fostering partnerships between Owens and emergency preparedness leaders within the surrounding communities, as well as at the state, regional and national levels, helping to support the Center’s education and training efforts throughout the Midwest.

“Providing our region’s police, fire and emergency services personnel with the highest level in real-world, scenario training plays a critical role in ensuring America’s safety and protection,” said Dr. Bruce Busby, Owens Vice President of Academic Services. “Thomas Pack brings a distinguished career and extensive background and experiences in emergency preparedness that will be invaluable as Owens prepares to expand its educational training opportunities with the opening of the Center for Emergency Preparedness.”

Busby added, “This new training facility will position Owens as the regional training leader for thousands of first responders in Ohio and beyond and Thomas Pack’s leadership will play an important part in elevating the Center’s level of academic excellence.”

Since January 2000, Pack has served as the Fire Chief for the city of Northwood. While the community’s Fire Chief, he was responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operations of the fire and EMS services, which included the operation of two fire stations with 50 employees. Additionally, Pack was in charge of the maintenance and replacement of all apparatus and equipment, as well as initial training and continuing education for all employees.

Prior to his position as Northwood Fire Chief, Pack served as a Firefighter/Paramedic for the city of Oregon from 1978-99. He also was responsible for the coordination of all fire and EMS training programs for the Career and Technology Center, Adult Education Department and Oregon City Schools as Training Program Coordinator.

His professional and community involvement includes membership with the Ohio Fire Chiefs Association, Ohio Fire Fighters Association, Wood County Fire Chiefs Association, Lucas County Fire Chiefs Association, Wood County Fire Fighters Association and on the Division of EMS Education Committee. In addition, Pack is President of the Northwest Ohio Volunteer Fire Fighters Association, Vice President of the Wood County Local Emergency Planning Committee and past President of the Northwest Ohio Fire Chiefs. He has also has served as an Ohio Fire Academy Instructor in Incident Command System and in Hazardous Materials, among other emergency preparedness areas.

Pack received an associate’s degree in Fire Science Technology from Owens Community College. The Oregon resident also holds certification in Chemistry of Hazardous Materials from the National Fire Academy, Paramedic from the University of Toledo Health Science Campus, and Incident Command System and Hazardous Materials from the Ohio Fire Academy.

Owens has been at the forefront in providing educational training to local police and safety forces for over three decades. In 2004, the College broke ground for a new $20.5 million Center for Emergency Preparedness.

Phase one of Owens’ initial project, which was completed in 2005, included the installation of an infrastructure of water lines, gas lines, roads and parking lots, a driving pad, security fencing and fiber-optic cable.

Earlier this year, second phase construction was completed on the 110-acre Center for Emergency Preparedness and features full-size, state-of-the-art training props, including a flashover simulator, five-story burn building, tanker truck fire simulator, propane tank burn simulator, collapsed building tunnel system, confined space rescue area, gas station with car burn, dive and rescue pond, and car extrication.

Additional phases will consist of an emergency operations center, command and simulation center, mock city with retail, business and residential facades, and a variety of other simulation scenarios, including a fuel spill prop, rail and truck hazmat props, and a fire behavior lab area with a flashover container prop.

The Center, located at the convergence of Tracy and Walbridge roads, will also include Ohio’s Third Frontier Network – the nation’s most advanced fiber-optic network for research, education and economic development. An initiative of the Ohio Board of Regents, the network at Owens will allow area fire and police departments to conduct exercises, via distance learning, on a variety of simulated terrorist incidents, emergency hazards and natural disasters. Owens will open the Center in the spring of 2007.

The College currently offers associate degrees and certificate programs in Fire Science Technology, Criminal Justice Technology, Emergency Medical Management, Emergency Management and Planning, and Public Safety Communications. Courses offered within the public safety and emergency preparedness curricula include: criminal law and procedure, patrol operations, crime scene processing, fire fighting tactics and command, hazardous materials, fire inspection principles, and first responder. Owens also has a longstanding partnership with both Toledo Police and Fire Departments, serving as the training site for the two organizational academies.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Students Bring Hope and Life To Louisiana Abused Children Following Hurricane Destruction

Posted on August 28th, 2006

For many individuals in Northwest Ohio, the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina striking Louisiana’s coast and the destruction that followed will conjure up mind numbing images of horror and disaster. However, for several Owens Community College students, an alumnus and a faculty member the one-year anniversary takes on an entirely different meaning, which is focuses on celebrating life and the hope that tomorrow brings to employees and children of Louisiana’s K-Bar-B Youth Ranch.

One year ago, K-Bar-B Youth Ranch in Lacombe, La., was a vibrant non-profit residential treatment facility whose mission was to provide a healthy environment for abused children to overcome their personal, social and institutional obstacles, which prevent them from reaching their fullest potential in the community. Then, the traumatic events surrounding August 29 transpired and life as the youth ranch knew it changed forever. Hurricane Katrina ravaged the 75 acres of beautiful buildings and wooded property and a plea for help went out immediately, not only from the K-Bar-B Youth Ranch but also throughout the Louisiana and Mississippi region.

At the same time Hurricane Katrina struck Louisiana, Owens’ Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) on the Toledo-area Campus and the Rotaract Club, were conducting their initial fall meetings as student organizations and trying to decide upon ways that they could provide community service.

According to Andrew Timothy, Owens Instructor of Accounting and faculty advisor for the Toledo-area Campus’ SIFE and Rotaract student organizations, it didn’t take long for the students to focus their efforts on helping to rebuild the Louisiana region.

“Through contact with the Slidell Northshore Rotary Club (Slidell, La.), the Owens students were first made aware of the need at K-Bar-B Youth Ranch,” explained Timothy of Sylvania. “Prior to the hurricane making land the children at the youth ranch were told that they would have to leave their home for awhile. They really didn’t want to leave. In most cases this was the only place they called home and felt safe from danger. Hearing about the children and how they had to be placed in foster homes really inspired the students and made their mission of making the camp livable again all that more important.”

Instead of heading south for a bit of relaxation and fun in the tropical sun over spring brink, Timothy, along with Owens students Suzanne Bickford of Perrysburg, Dan Reyes-Cairo of Toledo, Lily Ingraham of Bowling Green and William Ash of Perrysburg and Owens alumnus Samuel Mallette of Toledo departed for the Gulf Coast region to assist in reconstructing the children’s center.

“A majority of the initial trip to the K-Bar-B Youth Ranch was spent working on one of the three badly damaged cabins,” said Ash, who passed on a Hawaiian cruise to help at the youth facility. “Our time was spent putting up new drywall, laying carpet and cleaning the grounds.”

Ash added, “We really were there to help in whatever way possible. The goal was to leave the facility in better shape than when we arrived.”

Through Northwest Ohio connections, Owens’ SIFE and Rotaract organizations caravanned down south on the first trip in three vehicles, including a Book Mobile filled with books from the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, a van from the Maumee Rotary Club and an ambulance from a local Oak Harbor couple. All three vehicles were donated to needy organizations both within Louisiana and Honduras.

According to Jennifer Fabacher, Executive Director of K-Bar-B Youth Ranch, the group’s efforts on the first trip were inspiring.

“I really don’t know what project they didn’t involve themselves with on the first trip,” she stated. “There was complete destruction after the hurricane hit the grounds. At the time the Owens group arrived the only employees left were myself and another office worker. Their humanitarian efforts lifted our spirits and energized us to not give up.”

After a week of long hours and hard labor the group headed for home, however, as soon as the student organizations arrived in Perrysburg Township a return trip to the K-Bar-B Youth Ranch was already in the works.

“As a group we really hadn’t completed our goal, which was to have the camp operational for the children to return to their home,” stated Ash. “They still needed our help.”

Determined to finish what they had started, Timothy, Ash and Mallette, along with Sylvania Rotary Club members Mel Honig and Jim Koenigseker, left Northwest Ohio in late May for a return trip to the K-Bar-B Youth Ranch. However, what Fabacher and the rest of the K-Bar-B Youth Ranch staff could not have imagined was the vast array of cargo that would accompany the trip. Among the equipment and furniture donated by several Northwest Ohio organizations were desks, chairs, entertainment centers and bookshelves for the two livable cabins, round tables and chairs for the cafeteria, computer stations for the computer lab and a conference table.

“When they arrived with the furniture and equipment all I could do was smile,” said Fabacher. “To have complete strangers decide to give back and truly help others in need is amazing. Andrew (Timothy) and his students are lifetime friends because they have made a huge difference in my life and the lives of the K-Bar-B Youth Ranch children.”

Fabacher added, “What was exciting is that our staff really got to know them as people and develop friendships.”

As part of the second trip, the group spent a majority of their time putting the finishing touches on the camp reconstruction efforts, including the assembling of furniture and getting the facility ready for the initial 10 children to return to their new home.

K-Bar-B Youth Ranch officially welcomed their first children back to a facility that is once again full of energy and life on June 5. The facility currently has amenities that include administrative offices, a family visitation center, a cafeteria, two livable cabins, a therapeutic building and a swimming pool.

“I couldn’t be more happy for the children and the staff at K-Bar-B Youth Ranch,” said Timothy. “I’m glad Northwest Ohio was able to play a small part in helping bring smiles to so many faces. That’s what it is all about.”

However, Fabacher is hoping that isn’t the last trip that the Owens group makes to Louisiana. “I want them to meet the children whose lives they touched as a result of their generosity.”

SIFE was founded in 1975 to provide college students with educational opportunities designed to enhance their leadership, teamwork and communication skills. Such educational opportunities are initiated by practicing the principles of market economics, business ethics, entrepreneurship and personal financial success through the implementation of various projects and SIFE-sponsored events. Currently, there are more than 1,200 SIFE organizations on college and university campuses in over 40 countries. The College currently has SIFE organizations on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

The Owens Rotaract Club is a Rotary-sponsored international organization with a primary focus of providing community and international service. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, the Owens Rotaract Club is comprised of young men and women who are dedicated to local volunteer work, as well as traveling abroad to aid impoverished nations.

Rotary International is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Founded in 1905, the Rotary Club was the first service-oriented club in the world. Today, approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 31,000 Rotary clubs located in 167 countries. Rotary International also awards scholarships and offers a wide range of humanitarian grants and educational programs that enable Rotarians to bring hope and promote international understanding throughout the world.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Closed for Labor Day Weekend

Posted on August 23rd, 2006

Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will be closed Saturday through Monday, Sept. 2-4 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. 5.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Fall Community Writers’ Workshop Forming at Owens Community College

Posted on August 17th, 2006

Area residents who enjoy writing short prose or poetry are invited to join a Community Writers’ Workshop forming this fall at Owens Community College. The workshop will meet weekly with a group of writers to discuss, critique and support writing.

Offered free of charge, the informal Community Writers’ Workshop meets every Monday from 6-9 p.m. in College Hall Room 156-D on Owens’ Toledo-area Campus, which is located on Oregon Road, four miles from downtown Toledo. The workshop runs from Aug. 21 through Dec. 11.

“The Community Writers’ Workshop is a cost-free opportunity for area residents of all writing levels to put their creativity to work and build their literary skills in a relaxed environment,” said Lynda Hoffman, Owens manager of the writing center.

For more information, call (567) 661-7385 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7385.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Welcomes Back Thousands of Students Monday, Aug. 21, for Fall Semester

Posted on August 17th, 2006

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.

On Monday, Aug. 21, Owens students will be locating their classrooms, talking with academic advisors and purchasing books, as well as registering for classes.

In addition, Owens is increasing its educational opportunities available to students this fall by expanding academic curriculum in such areas as the paramedic to registered nursing bridge program, culinary arts, massage therapy, and landscape and turfgrass management, among others. In addition, Owens is continuing to expand its extremely popular eOwens distance learning education by introducing additional academic courses online.

The College is also expanding upon its services by showcasing a new Student Resource Center, which is designed to foster student success. Additionally, Owens is introducing a new Honors Program and unveiling a remodeled exercise facility in the Student Health and Activities Center.

Continuing to enhance educational opportunities for students in the Hancock County area, Owens opened a new $17.7 million Findlay-area Campus in 2005. Additionally, Owens is investing in the future of higher education within the Northwest Ohio region by unveiling a new $4.2 million Findlay-area Campus community education and wellness center in spring 2007.

To accommodate the record number of students, the College also within the last four years opened an $11 million Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus. In spring 2007, Owens will unveil a new Center for Emergency Preparedness. The Center will be the only state-of-the-art facility of this magnitude within the Midwest.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens and Books-A-Million Inc. Assists Area Children With School Supply Drive, July 28 – Aug. 28

Posted on July 26th, 2006

Owens Community College’s Alumni Association and Books-A-Million Inc. are once again reaching out to area children in need of school supplies by holding a month-long Backpack to the Future School Supply Drive, July 28 – Aug. 28. Collected items will benefit low-income kindergarten-age school children throughout Northwest Ohio.

The Backpack to the Future School Supply Drive, which will occur at the Books-A-Million bookstore (2105 Levis Commons Blvd.) located in The Town Center at Levis Commons in Perrysburg, expands the College’s educational initiative to now include an additional site for individuals to drop off their donations. Among the charitable items that will be accepted as part of the school supply drive are gently used or new backpacks, crayons, markers, bottles of glue, glue sticks, colored pencils, pencils, pink erasers, school boxes, pocket folders, marbled covered composition books and Kleenex tissues.

“Books-A-Million is very proud to once again partner with the Owens Community College Alumni Association on such an important community service project,” said Rick Clayton, general manager for Levis Commons’ Books-A-Million store. “It is essential that children have the proper educational resources for the learning process and Books-A-Million is honored to assist in making such opportunities become a reality.”

According to Kaye Koevenig, Owens Alumni Association community service project chair, the Northwest Ohio community’s initial response toward the Backpack to the Future Supply Drive has been strong.

“Area residents truly recognize the value of education and want to make a difference in the lives of others,” she stated. “With more than a month left in the school supply drive and the expanded efforts and support by Books-A-Million, I expect the donations to easily surpass last year’s totals, which is a great feeling.”

Founded in 1917 as a street corner newsstand in Florence, Ala., Books-A-Million Inc. has grown to become the premier book retailing chain in the Southeastern United States, and the third largest book retailer in the nation. Based in Birmingham, Ala., the company currently operates more than 200 stores in 19 states and the District of Columbia.

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.

In addition to the Books-A-Million supply drive, area residents can bring their charitable donations to the College’s Office of Alumni Relations on the Toledo-area Campus. For more information about the school supply drive, or to make a donation, call (567) 661-7410 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7410.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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From Owens Community College to Antarctica: Former Student Government President Assists in Fire Prevention Project

Posted on July 20th, 2006

Arriving to temperatures averaging below minus 35 F, a bundled-up Josh Hartbarger, a 2005 Owens Community College graduate and former Student Government president, didn’t know what he was in for when his C-17 military plane landed on a frozen Ross Sea in frigid Antarctica last October.

“I was pretty nervous,” he said. “We actually landed on ice, so that was a little scary. Once the plane door opened to unload cargo, the cold hit me. I knew it was going to be cold, but I’ve never felt cold like that in my life.”

A Whitehouse resident and a volunteer, part-time first responder with the Whitehouse Fire Department, Hartbarger embarked on a more than five-month stay in Antarctica after applying for the opportunity through a company called Raytheon Polar Services.

Hartbarger arrived at McMurdo Station – the largest operation in Antarctica – as part of a 1,000-member team whose purpose was to support approximately 200 National Science Foundation research scientists who were on the continent to study the atmosphere and wildlife in a naturally preserved environment.

Originally sent to serve as a line lieutenant, Hartbarger became a fire prevention officer once the need for such a position presented itself. As a fire prevention officer, he worked 12-hour days, six days a week on a variety of tasks including conducting monthly fire inspections on about 100 buildings and leading fire prevention classes.

Hartbarger also received the honor of conducting the fire inspection for the new South Pole Station, which serves as the temporary living quarters for residents, after the facility received its temporary occupancy permit.

“It was quite an honor to be chosen for such an assignment,” Hartbarger said. “Not too many individuals get the chance to travel to the South Pole. The experience is one that I will not soon forget.”

More than 20,000 miles away in 24-hour-a-day sunlight, Hartbarger didn’t forget about his friends at Owens. In fact, he sent back a picture of an Owens banner proudly flying on a sign marking McMurdo Station, Antarctica.

“My degree from Owens opened the door to an opportunity of a lifetime in Antarctica,” he stated. “Without a degree, I wouldn’t have been able to obtain a lieutenant position. Also, I think being president of Student Government really helped out because they were looking for well-rounded candidates. I probably wouldn’t have had the opportunity to go at all had it not been for that.”

While in Antarctica, Hartbarger won an Outstanding Service Award from the U.S. Military for his exceptional service. Chief Bill May and firefighter Sean Powers, also from the Whitehouse Fire Department, accompanied Hartbarger to Antarctica. The trio’s more than five-month excursion ended in February 2006.

The 2000 Anthony Wayne High School graduate received his associate’s degree in liberal arts from Owens in 2005. He is currently employed with Instrument Service and Equipment in Maumee and continues his service to the Whitehouse Fire Department.

In addition to his work with the Whitehouse Fire Department, Hartbarger is associated with the Whitehouse Sons of The American Legion Post 384 and serves as a Whitehouse Library Advisory Board member.

Though not exactly sure of his next move, Hartbarger’s future plans include possibly enrolling in a paramedic program through Owens and The University of Toledo Health Science Campus, obtaining a fire science degree, heading back to Antarctica and someday getting involved in local politics – thanks to his experience with Owens Student Government.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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60/60 Program Leads to Lourdes College B.A. For Owens Community College A.A.S. Health Science Students

Posted on July 19th, 2006

Lourdes College and Owens Community College are setting a new precedent within higher education by announcing a collaboration that would allow students accepted into one of four health science programs at Owens to also earn a baccalaureate degree at Lourdes while waiting for a clinical seat.

The program, known as 60/60, allows students pursuing Associate of Applied Science degrees in health information technology, occupational therapy assistant, radiography, or the surgical program at Owens to build on the credit hours they will earn to pursue a Bachelor of Arts – interdisciplinary studies degree at Lourdes College.

“Owens Community College is honored to partner with Lourdes College and open new doors for students by providing greater access to higher education,” said Christa Adams, Ph.D., president of Owens Community College. “We welcome this collaborative initiative with open arms and embrace the alignment of our educational philosophies.”

President Adams added, “This partnership represents a pioneering model between two- and four-year academic institutions and serves the health care community by creating a seamless pathway for students to achieve their educational goals.”

“With the 60/60 Program, Owens and Lourdes are working together to help students make the most of their investment of time, as well as money,” adds Dr. Robert C. Helmer, president of Lourdes College. “The health science students enrolling in this program will benefit from the solid technical education for which Owens is well-known, and from the values-based liberal arts education available at Lourdes, without having to finish one degree before beginning another.”

The Bachelor of Arts – interdisciplinary studies at Lourdes offers concentrations in allied health, business studies, fine arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. With the help of their academic advisor, students pursuing the interdisciplinary studies select classes from at least two different departments totaling 30 semester hours and complete a capstone project to earn the baccalaureate degree.

Students entering the new 60/60 Program, which begins Fall 2006, will be required to earn a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework from each institution to simultaneously obtain an associate degree from Owens, and a baccalaureate degree from Lourdes. Students may begin their academic coursework at either institution. However, the student must be accepted into one of the four health science programs at Owens in order to meet Lourdes admissions criteria for this unique program. While waiting for their clinical seats, students may begin pursuing coursework at Lourdes toward their baccalaureate degree.

An admissions representative from Lourdes will be based at the Owens Toledo-area Campus to assist students through the registration process.

In addition to the new joint venture, Lourdes College and Owens Community College also have a long-standing collaboration enabling students in the Owens registered nursing program to pursue a Bachelor of Science in nursing at Lourdes through an articulation agreement.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

Located in Sylvania, Ohio, and rooted in the Franciscan tradition, Lourdes College offers baccalaureate degree programs in Arts and Sciences, Nursing, and Professional Studies including business, education, leadership studies, and social work. Lourdes also offers graduate degrees in Education and Organizational Leadership. Lourdes is a private college offering a distinctive educational experience at an affordable price, giving our graduates a lifetime of opportunities.

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Cooper Tire & Rubber Company Vice President Named to Owens Foundation Board of Directors

Posted on July 13th, 2006

Owens Community College has named James H. Geers, vice president of global human resources at Cooper Tire & Rubber Company in Findlay, to serve on the Board of Directors for the Owens Community College Foundation. The College’s Foundation Board of Directors approved the new appointment during a recent quarterly meeting.

Geers is one of 22 leaders within the government, business and industry communities comprising the Foundation’s Board of Directors. The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $1.9 million in assets.

The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is cultivating gift initiatives by targeting successful alumni, business and industry members who are committed to investing and supporting the educational needs of current and future Owens students. The Foundation’s focus allows Owens to continue offering affordable tuition, ensuring the College’s academic position as the best investment in Northwest Ohio. The Owens Foundation has awarded over $972,000 in scholarships and program support since incorporation in 2002.

During his 38 years at Cooper, Geers has held positions in industrial engineering, as manager of industrial relations for Cooper’s Findlay and Texarkana plants and as director of industrial relations for the corporation before being named a corporate vice president responsible for global human resources.

A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Geers’ professional and community involvement includes serving on the board of the Blanchard Valley Health Association and membership with the Rubber Manufacturers Association’s Human Resource Committee.

Geers attended the University of Findlay majoring in management and economics and completed the advanced management program at Bowling Green State University. He resides in Findlay.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College, 92.5 KISS-FM and FOX Toledo Provide Free College Education

Posted on June 29th, 2006

Owens Community College, 92.5 KISS-FM and FOX Toledo are once again partnering to offer a unique scholarship contest, which will award free college education to two area residents. The scholarship contest will award a grand-prize winner one year of free tuition to Owens, while the individual who finishes in second place will receive one semester of free tuition.

“Owens Community College is proud to continue partnering with 92.5 KISS-FM and FOX Toledo and offer this life-changing opportunity for the Northwest Ohio community,” said Andy Woodard, Owens interim director of marketing. “This contest is possible due to the College’s continued efforts of building upon its community partnerships. Thanks to the support of 92.5 KISS-FM and FOX Toledo, two students will be able to experience a quality education at Owens Community College.”

Woodard added, “We look forward to a very successful campaign, affording two students the opportunity to fulfill their educational dreams.”

Individuals can enter the contest by logging onto www.owens.edu, www.925kissfm.com or www.foxtoledo.com clicking on “Ultimate Tuition Challenge 2” and correctly answering a series of three questions. Applicants also can enter by calling 92.5 KISS-FM when prompted during afternoon drive time. All entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 30.

Applicants answering all three questions correctly will be entered into a drawing in which 300 semifinalists will be chosen at random. Each individual’s name will be listed on www.owens.edu. To determine the grand-prize winner, five randomly selected semifinalists will then be chosen at the quiz bowl finals scheduled for Thursday, August 10. The quiz bowl finals will occur from 3-6 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre. Portions of the event will be broadcast live by 92.5 KISS-FM.

One grand-prize winner will be awarded one year of free tuition to Owens, while the individual finishing in second place will receive one semester of free tuition. All five finalists will receive a $100 gift certificate to the College’s Bookstore. The contest is open to Ohio and Michigan residents 16 years of age or older.

Owens this past year provided more than $46.8 million in grants, scholarships, loans and federal work study to support the educational needs of students. Recently, the Owens Community College Foundation awarded scholarships in the amount of $84,400 to students exemplifying academic excellence and leadership.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Alumni Association Golf Outing Raises Over $43,800 in Support of Scholarships

Posted on June 26th, 2006

More than 100 area residents enjoyed a day of golf and entertainment in support of alumni scholarship programs as Owens Community College’s Alumni Association held its fourth annual Golf Classic. The 31-team event raised over $43,800 to benefit scholarship endeavors.

Since its inception, the Owens event has raised over $115,000 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 Janet Meacham, Owens president of the Alumni Association. “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 the historic Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. The event featured 18-holes of golf, lunch, cocktails/hors d’oeuvres and an awards program. The Golf Classic event sponsor was Sky Bank, while H.O.T. Graphic Services served as the print sponsor.

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

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

The College’s Alumni Association is open to all graduates or students who have successfully completed any credit or non-credit course at Owens. New members have the opportunity to serve on the organization’s Board of Directors or committees, utilize the Student Health and Activities Center, Common Computer labs, and Library services and attend a variety of social and networking events.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Closed For Independence Holiday, July 4

Posted on June 21st, 2006

Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will be closed on Tuesday, July 4 for the Independence Day holiday. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed.

Classes will resume and College offices will open again on Wednesday, July 5.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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6,740 Students Choose Owens To Pursue Educational Opportunities and Career Aspirations

Posted on June 21st, 2006

Owens Community College continues to provide Northwest Ohio residents excellence in higher education with 6,740 students choosing to attend the academic institution for Summer Semester classes.

Since becoming a comprehensive community college in 1994, Owens has more than doubled its Summer Semester student enrollment by an astounding 166 percent. The College enrolled 2,538 students for Summer Semester classes 12 years ago.

“Owens Community College has a long and proud tradition of making a difference in students’ lives,” said Dr. Bill Ivoska, Owens vice president of Student Services. “The foundation for this institution’s academic excellence is a result of our faculty and staff and their unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student succeeds. Their desire in wanting to make a difference is why Owens is Northwest Ohio’s leader in higher education.”

The combined Summer Semester enrollment of 6,740 students on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses surpasses the enrollment of 6,657 students during Summer Semester 2005. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus has 5,636 students attending classes, while on the Findlay-area Campus 1,104 students are enrolled. On both campuses, Summer Semester enrollment has increased 1.25 percent from last summer.

According to Ivoska, one of the many reasons for the College’s enrollment growth results from native four-year college students enrolling at Owens to take advantage of the course credit transferability during the summer months.

“Owens has made a fundamental point to build upon the needs of our students through the continued advancement of academic resources, including the accessibility and transferability of course offerings,” Ivoska stated. “Transient enrollment shows that students from other colleges and universities recognize the great value of an Owens education.”

For Zach Allen, a senior pursuing his bachelor’s degree in pre-law from Bowling Green State University, the opportunity to take Owens Summer Semester courses will allow him to fulfill many of his general education requirements.

“The convenience of taking classes at Owens and transferring those credits back to BGSU is great,” said Allen, who currently is enrolled in macroeconomics and previously took pre-calculus and public speaking courses during summer terms. “I really like the atmosphere and how approachable instructors are when you have a question.”

Allen added that “going from a large Bowling Green lecture hall with hundreds of students to a small Owens classroom with less than 20 students makes for the ideal learning environment.”

The small classroom is not only a favorite of the Bowling Green resident but also three fellow transient students also attending the Owens macroeconomics class.

“I’m really enjoying the class and my experience at Owens,” stated fellow BGSU student Meghan McGowan of Toledo.

Carrying a 3.1 grade point average at BGSU, Allen plans to attend law school and practice law in a few years. “I couldn’t be happier with my Owens experience,” he stated. “Graduating from college in four years is nearly impossible. However, because of my Owens education, I hopefully won’t have to worry about paying for a fifth year of college.”

Additionally, the College is committed to making courses available through e-Learning by continuously expanding its educational choices. During the 2005-06 academic year, the College offered students the opportunity to enroll in the first-ever online associate degrees as part of the new eOwens academic curriculum. For Summer Semester 3,574 students are pursuing e-Learning courses – up from 2,707 last summer (32 percent increase).

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Names New School of Arts and Sciences Dean

Posted on June 20th, 2006

Owens Community College has named Dr. Renay Scott as the new dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. Her responsibilities will include overseeing all instructional programs and activities 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 collaborating with the fellow academic deans to enhance educational opportunities and resources for current and future students.

“We are very honored to have Dr. Scott serving as the new dean for Owens’ School of Arts and Sciences,” said Dr. Bruce Busby, Owens vice president of Academic Services. “Dr. Scott brings to the College a distinguished academic career and extensive knowledge and experience in higher education that will strengthen the overall leadership and take our School of Arts and Sciences to a new level of academic excellence.”

Since August 2003, Scott has served as the chair for the Department of Teacher Education and Professional Development at Central Michigan University. While at Central Michigan, she was responsible for overseeing over 2,000 students as well as 39 full-time and 40 part-time faculty members. Scott also played a significant role in cultivating and furthering partnerships between Central Michigan and the area public schools, community colleges and educational service organizations.

Additionally, she was responsible for the department’s recruiting and retention efforts for students and faculty, and professional development opportunities for schools and educators throughout Michigan. Prior to her position as chair, Scott served as a full-time professor at the university.

Her professional and community involvement includes currently serving as House of Delegates Steering Committee chair of the National Council for the Social Studies and past-president of Michigan Council for the Social Studies. Honored for her teaching excellence, Scott in 2004 received the Michigan Council for the Social Studies’ Outstanding Social Studies Teacher Educator for work at the collegiate level.

An advocate for teacher education, Scott recently completed a teaching unit for middle school educators titled “American Revolution Super Simulation.”

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

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Assists School Children With ‘Backpack to the Future’ Supply Drive

Posted on June 14th, 2006

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

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

“Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is proud to once again collaborate with the Student Government and coordinate an event benefiting such a worthy cause,” said Kaye Koevenig, Owens community service chair of the Alumni Association. “There are many low-income families that can barely afford to pay their bills, and may not be able to provide their children with new supplies. Our goal is to ensure that such occurrences do not happen and that all children begin their school year with new educational resources.”

Koevenig added, “The various donations collected throughout the summer will be delivered to underprivileged children as the new school year begins in August and September.”

In addition to the gently used backpacks, or new backpacks, individuals can donate crayons, markers, bottles of glue, glue sticks, colored pencils, pencils, pink erasers, school boxes, pocket folders, marbled covered composition books and Kleenex tissues. Area residents can bring their charitable donations to the College’s Office of Alumni Relations on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road, four miles from downtown Toledo.

Since establishing the program in 2004, the Owens Alumni Association and Student Government have given over 300 backpacks and nearly 5,000 school supplies to benefit underprivileged children throughout Northwest Ohio.

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

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 school supply drive, or to make a donation, contact the Owens Alumni Relations Office at (567) 661-7410, 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7410 or alumni@owens.edu.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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U.S. Army Selects Owens Registered Nursing Program To Help Alleviate Military Nursing Shortage

Posted on June 9th, 2006

Owens Community College has been chosen among colleges and universities nationwide to participate in a collaborative venture with the U.S. Army and help in alleviating the military nursing shortage. The College’s registered nursing program, which is located on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, was selected as one of only 17 academic institutions to travel to Fort Gordon Military Installation in Fort Gordon, Ga., and take part in a two-day informational visit and study focusing on U.S. Army medicine and the nursing corps.

“The nationwide shortage of registered nurses continues to increase daily and is only expected to intensify as baby boomers age and their need for health care grows,” said Pearl Manion, Owens clinical teaching associate in Nursing, who will represent Owens and the registered nursing program during the U.S. Army nursing study. “Another problem facing the United States is that current nurses from the baby boomer generation are expected to begin retiring within the next few years which will cause added strain on the profession.”

Manion added, “The U.S. Army is not immune to the nursing shortage and is constantly seeking nurses to provide world-class heath care for soldiers. The U.S. Army is seeking the best and brightest nursing graduates. Owens registered nursing graduates are leaders not only within the profession but the health care community. Owens’ registered nursing is pleased to collaborate with the U.S. Army and assist in their efforts to preserve and defend America’s freedom by encouraging Owens students to consider a career within the nursing corps.”

Manion will depart for Fort Gordon Military Installation on Wednesday, June 14. Once at Fort Gordon, Manion, along with fellow college and university representatives, will receive a tour of the military installation, as well as witness the base’s annual mock field exercise. The training event is designed to simulate a military combat situation and the life-like injuries and casualties that occur as a result of the conflict. Individuals will also have the opportunity to tour the Eisenhower Army Medical Center and meet hospital officials to discuss nursing opportunities within the military.

Besides Owens, the other academic institutions participating in the informational study include Sullivan County Community College, Norfolk State University, State University of New York, Erie Community College, Tennessee State University, Fort Valley State University, Florida Institute of Technology, Purdue University, Winona State University, Loyola University, Missouri Southern State University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Nevada, Reno, University of Puget Sound, UCLA and San Diego Community College.

Established in 1969 as the first associate degree program of its kind in Northwest Ohio, the School of Health Sciences’ registered nursing program has graduated more than 3,600 nurses who are providing leadership and making significant contributions to the health care community throughout the United States. The program was implemented on the Findlay-area Campus in 1991.

Owens’ registered nursing program requires 73 credit hours of coursework, which includes nutrition, nursing concepts, pharmacology, life span psychology, nursing skills, adult health issues, anatomy and physiology. 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’ School of Health Sciences also offers a licensed practical nurse/associate degree nursing progression program, which is designed for individuals who need specified nursing courses and are licensed practical nurses, as well as practical nursing and international nursing certificate programs. During the upcoming Fall Semester, Owens for the first time will make available a new paramedic to registered nurse bridge program on the Toledo-area Campus.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Toledo-area Campus Child Care Center Offers Summer School Program to Area Children

Posted on June 7th, 2006

Area residents interested in receiving exceptional child care through innovative teaching and learning methods are invited to enroll their children in the Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus Child Care Center summer school program. The College’s Child Care Center is currently accepting new students ages 5 to 10 for this summer.

Located adjacent to Alumni Hall, the College’s Child Care Center is focused on providing quality and affordable child care for the children of faculty, staff, students and the community. The Owens Toledo-area Campus Child Care Center summer school program will be offered Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.

“Owens Community College summer school program is devoted to enhancing the lives of children through developmentally appropriate curriculum, which emphasizes learning through play,” said Maribeth Tercha, Owens manager of the Toledo-area Campus Child Care Center.

Tercha added, “Creating an environment which places the highest level of focus on the child’s development is possible because of our low ratio of children to adults and extremely caring staff.”

Youth enrolled in the program will spend their summer participating in an array of educational activities designed to teach about cultures around the world. Each student will receive a “passport” at the beginning of the term that allows them to track their journey. The lessons will be guided by the children themselves and include field trips for such activities as putt-putt, bowling and swimming, as well as visits to COSI Toledo, the Toledo Zoo, the Toledo Museum of Art, a Toledo Mud Hens game and even a lunch excursion to an area China buffet.

Owens’ Child Care Center has been providing quality child care to the surrounding communities for nearly 40 years and was created with the overall mission of offering excellence in child care services by providing the latest in innovative teaching and learning methods. The Center also affords Owens students enrolled within the early childhood education program the opportunity to apply knowledge obtained within the classroom in a real-world setting. Many child care teachers and directors throughout the surrounding communities have begun their instructional careers at the Owens Child Care Center.

The Owens Child Care Center is accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs, a distinction earned by only 7 percent of early childhood programs nationwide. It is also one of a select few programs across the country to introduce the child care philosophy named Reggio Emilia. The philosophy centers on the ideal that every child be afforded the right to grow and learn in a nurturing environment on an individual basis. This allows the students to explore their unique ability at their own pace and express their learning in hundreds of different ways through hands-on experiences.

In addition to the summer school program, child care services are available during the academic year to children ages 6 weeks to 10 years of Owens employees and students, as well as community residents. Owens’ Child Care Center is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.

For more information about Owens’ Child Care Center on the Toledo-area Campus, call (567) 661-7404 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7404.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Findlay-area Campus Strengthens Leadership

Posted on June 5th, 2006

FINDLAY – Owens Community College is strengthening its leadership on the Findlay-area Campus by naming Verne Walker, director of Enrollment Service, as the new assistant dean of Students. In addition, Angie McGinnis, former Enrollment Services representative, becomes the new director of Enrollment Services.

“Verne and Angie are outstanding leaders who share Owens’ commitment to excellence in higher education,” said Judy Ennis, Owens executive dean of the Findlay-area Campus. “Both individuals have been instrumental in helping achieve the College’s mission of serving its students and surrounding communities. The Owens Findlay-area Campus has a bright future with endless opportunities for collaboration throughout Northwest Ohio. Verne and Angie will have a significant impact on this College’s educational future.”

Walker joined Owens in 1997. Since then, he has held numerous positions including Advising representative, coordinator of Advising, assistant director of Enrollment Services and director of Enrollment Services. In his new position as assistant dean, he will be responsible for providing leadership to a wide variety of offices such as Admissions, Advising, Financial Aid, the Testing Center and Student Life, as well as the Bookstore and the Bursar’s Office. Additionally as the assistant dean, Walker will be responsible for handling all student questions and concerns related to policy, procedure, College practices and customer service.

At Owens, Walker also serves as the co-director for the Owens Leadership Academy and is a member of several committees including AQIP, Food Service, College Planning Council and Findlay Strategic Planning, among others.

Prior to working at Owens, Walker served as a residence life director at Bowling Green State University in the Student Housing and Residence Services (SHARP) office where he developed a residential community for 300 undergraduate students.

Walker is involved with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and is a member of the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA), the Ohio Academic Advising Association (OHAAA), the Ohio Association of College Admissions Counselors (OACAC), the Ohio College Personnel Association (OCPA) and Psi Chi National Psychology Honor Society.

Walker earned an associate degree from Muskegon Community College, a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Central Michigan University and a master’s in higher education administration with a focus on college student personnel from the University of Toledo. Currently, he is pursuing a doctorate in higher education administration at the University in Toledo. Walker resides in Arlington.

McGinnis joined the College as a part-time Admissions representative on the Toledo-area Campus in 2001. Two years later, she joined the Findlay-area Campus as a full-time Enrollment Services representative. In her former positions, she was responsible for assisting students achieve their professional and personal goals by providing advising and guidance through the enrollment process. Additionally, she was instrumental in producing and directing an orientation program for Findlay-area Campus students, organizing the Greater Hancock County College Night and editing an e-newsletter for all area high school guidance counselors.

As director of Enrollment Services, she will be responsible for supervising College advisors, the student outreach specialist and receptionist, as well as overseeing all admissions, advising and orientation functions on the Findlay-area Campus.

Prior to joining Owens, McGinnis worked at Sandusky County Department of Job and Family Services for five years. There, she served as an income maintenance caseworker and a children services investigator where she determined eligibility for public assistance and investigated allegations of child abuse and neglect, respectively.

Her community and professional involvement includes serving on the Hancock County Area Read for Life committee and as coordinator of the College’s Adopt-A-Road and the Salvation Army Angel Tree programs. Last year, McGinnis’ leadership was recognized with acceptance into the Owens Leadership Academy.

McGinnis earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology and Spanish from Hiram College. A resident of Kansas, she holds a master’s degree in college student personnel from Bowling Green State University.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Enhances Admissions Process Through New Online Application

Posted on June 2nd, 2006

Area residents interested in pursuing a college education at Owens Community College can now complete the initial enrollment process from the convenience of their home computer. Beginning Summer Semester 2006, the College is affording new students the opportunity to submit the Application for Admission entirely through an online program.

“Owens Community College is dedicated to meeting the needs of its students by providing several admissions application options,” said Donna Gruber, Owens director of Enrollment Services. “The online Admissions Application was created to allow new students to take the first step toward an Owens education at their own convenience, anytime during the day or night.”

According to Gruber, in order to apply for admission online, new students will need to access the College’s website at www.owens.edu and click on the area titled “Quick Links,” then select “Admission Application.” Both links are located on the left hand side of the website, she explained.

“Individuals will then need to create a password, which will allow them to access the Admissions Application,” Gruber stated. “The entire application will only take a few minutes to complete and will be readily available to Enrollment Services representatives to begin the enrollment process.”

Information requested as part of the electronic application includes name, address, phone number, planned course of study, high school and any previous college attended, among other areas. Following the online application process, Enrollment Services representatives will assist the new student in determining which additional information is needed for admission to Owens, such as high school grade transcript, GED scores, college grade transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, an articulation form or post-secondary option form.

“Whether an individual is a native four-year college student and taking advantage of course credit transferability or a first-time college student pursuing one of the College’s many academic program areas, our goal within Student Services is to ensure that a student’s initial Owens experience is very positive,” Gruber concluded.

For more information about the College’s new online Application for Admission, call (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Findlay-area Campus Enhances Admissions Process Through New Online Application

Posted on June 1st, 2006

FINDLAY – Area residents interested in pursuing a college education at Owens Community College can now complete the initial enrollment process from the convenience of their home computer. Beginning Summer Semester 2006, the College is affording new students the opportunity to submit the Application for Admission entirely through an online program.

“Owens Community College is dedicated to meeting the needs of its students by providing several admissions application options,” said Angie McGinnis, Owens director of Enrollment Services on the Findlay-area Campus. “The online Admissions Application was created to allow new students to take the first step toward an Owens education at their own convenience, anytime during the day or night.”

According to McGinnis, in order to apply for admission online, new students will need to access the College’s website at www.owens.edu and click on the area titled “Quick Links,” then select “Admission Application.” Both links are located on the left hand side of the website, she explained.

“Individuals will then need to create a password, which will allow them to access the Admissions Application,” McGinnis stated. “The entire application will only take a few minutes to complete and will readily be available to Enrollment Services representatives to begin the enrollment process.”

Information requested as part of the electronic application includes name, address, phone number, planned course of study, high school and any previous college attended, among other areas. Following the online application process, Enrollment Services representatives will assist the new student in determining which additional information is needed for admission to Owens, such as high school grade transcript, GED scores, college grade transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, an articulation form or post-secondary option form.

“Whether an individual is a native four-year college student and taking advantage of course credit transferability or a first-time college student pursuing one of the College’s many academic program areas, our goal within Student Services is to ensure that a student’s initial Owens experience is very positive,” McGinnis concluded.

For more information about the College’s new online Application for Admission, call (567) 429-3509 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3509.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens and Greater Northwest Ohio Tech Prep Consortium Establish New Scholarship Program

Posted on May 30th, 2006

Owens Community College and the Greater Northwest Ohio Tech Prep Consortium are opening new doors for students to seamlessly pursue their career aspirations through a college education by making available thousands of dollars in Tech Prep scholarships for area graduating high school seniors.

The new scholarships will be offered to any high school graduate who has participated in a Tech Prep career pathway within the Greater Northwest Ohio Tech Prep Consortium. Scholarship recipients, who must meet certain qualifications, will receive a maximum award of $2,000 for two academic years or $500 per semester for four semesters to pay for tuition and fees. The first-ever scholarships will be awarded for Fall Semester 2006.

“Owens Community College is pleased to collaborate with the Greater Northwest Ohio Tech Prep Consortium to assist students in furthering their education and career aspirations,” said Dr. Paul Unger, Owens executive vice president/provost. “These scholarships will enable Tech Prep high school students to seamlessly continue their educational pathways at the collegiate level, which accomplishes the objective of the statewide Tech Prep initiative.”

Dr. Unger added, “Upon completion of their educational career pathways, Owens Tech Prep graduates will either continue their education toward a bachelor’s degree or move directly into high demand, high tech careers. Either way, these students will continue to build a highly skilled workforce that will attract and further business investment opportunities in the state of Ohio.”

To qualify for an Owens Tech Prep scholarship, students must have achieved a minimum 2.5 GPA by the end of their seventh high school semester. Applicants also must be enrolled in at least 12 graded credit hours within an associate degree program related to their chosen high school Tech Prep career pathway for Fall Semester 2006. While receiving scholarship funding, students must maintain continuous full-time enrollment status during the College’s fall and spring terms and maintain a 2.5 GPA while at Owens.

“The Owens Community College Tech Prep scholarships are an exciting opportunity for our Tech Prep students,” said Nancy Pietras, executive director of the Greater Northwest Ohio Tech Prep Consortium. “More than 50 percent of our graduating Tech Prep seniors enroll at Owens each year. Owens has worked closely with the Consortium to provide our students with access to a college education and ensure that their transition from high school to college is seamless.”

Pietras added, “These scholarship opportunities are still another example of the commitment and dedication that Owens has to the youth of Northwest Ohio. Owens’ new scholarships will provide additional incentive and financial support for students to continue their education by pursing a college degree.”

College Tech Prep is a collective group of high schools, colleges and businesses that combine academic and technical courses with career training to prepare high school students for college and high demand, high pay technical careers. Students have the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school within an array of diversified technologies programs, including agricultural systems, automotive technology, business technology, construction management, criminal justice, engineering technology, environmental technology, e-commerce marketing, health technology, information technology, marketing research and teaching professions.

Owens this past year provided more than $46.8 million in grants, scholarships, loans and federal work study to support the educational needs of students. Recently, the Owens Community College Foundation awarded scholarships in the amount of $84,400 to students exemplifying academic excellence and leadership.

The application deadline for the new Owens Tech Prep scholarships is Monday, July 17. For more information, contact the College’s Financial Aid Office at (567) 661-7343 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7343.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Unveils Plans and Begins Construction For New Community Education and Wellness Center

Posted on May 23rd, 2006

FINDLAY – With the dust hardly settled from construction of a new Findlay-area Campus, Owens Community College is continuing to invest in the future of higher education within the Northwest Ohio region by unveiling plans and breaking ground for a $4.2 million community education and wellness center.

“Owens Community College has a longstanding commitment to providing students with access to enriched learning opportunities,” said Judy Ennis, Owens executive dean of the Findlay-area Campus. “The construction of a new community education and wellness center will enable the College to offer even more resources as we continue to fulfill our mission of serving students and the surrounding communities.”

Ennis added, “This state-of-the-art facility will be a welcome addition to the Findlay-area Campus and will open new doors to workforce training needs, a variety of community events and recreational activities.”

Owens president Christa Adams, Ph.D., Findlay-area Campus executive dean Judy Ennis and Board of Trustee members joined community leaders and Owens employees in recently celebrating the initial construction by ceremoniously breaking ground for the new state-of-art educational facility.

Owens’ new community education and wellness center is being built adjacent to the new Findlay-area Campus education center and will provide expanded educational choices highlighted by a community and corporate training center. The 24,641 square-foot building will feature three classrooms, including a wireless seminar classroom with tiered seating for more than 150 individuals. The College’s facility will also include two computer labs and two multifunctional industrial laboratories/shop bays, as well as a wellness, cardiovascular and fitness center for general student use.

In addition, the Findlay-area Campus phase two construction project, which is slated for completion in January 2007, will feature a community-oriented, multipurpose center for continued education that will accommodate 350 banquet seating or more for a variety of events and will include on-site catering services.

Designed by the firm Rooney, Clinger, Murray Architects of Findlay, the exterior of the building will match the existing facility’s architecture with Belden brick, colored concrete block, reflective glass plate and curved metal canopies over the entrance doors. Charles Construction Services of Findlay will serve as the general contractor, while Warner Mechanical Corp. of Fremont and Westfield Electric Inc. of Gibsonburg will oversee combined plumbing/fire protection/mechanical and electrical contracts, respectively.

In 2005, Owens marked a milestone in the academic institution’s history by opening a new $17.7 million Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ new education center provides an array of academic resources, highlighted by 38 advanced technology classrooms, 27 technical and computer laboratories, and student services areas. Included in the new student services areas are a Bursar’s Office, Records Office, Financial Aid Office and Enrollment Services Office.

Additional features include a Bookstore, Commons area, Library, Jaguar Grill, Conference Room, and the Voorhees Conference Center. Encompassing 119,407 square feet, the 60-acre campus is located at 3200 Bright Road on Findlay’s northeast side.

Owens’ new Findlay-area Campus is home to more than 100 degree and certificate program areas. Among the academic program offerings available to students are arts and sciences, business and information technology, health sciences, technology, public safety and emergency preparedness, and skilled trades. A record-setting 5,296 students attended classes on the new Findlay-area Campus during the past fall and spring terms.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Unveils Plans and Breaks Ground For New Community Education and Wellness Center, May 15

Posted on May 11th, 2006

FINDLAY – Owens Community College is continuing to invest in the future of higher education within the Northwest Ohio region by unveiling plans and breaking ground for a new $4.2 million Findlay-area Campus community education and wellness center on Monday, May 15.

Owens president Christa Adams, Ph.D., Findlay-area Campus executive dean Judy Ennis and Board of Trustee members will join community leaders and Owens employees in celebrating the initial construction for the new state-of-art educational facility.

Beginning at 10 a.m., groundbreaking festivities will commence with remarks by several Owens representatives, as well as comments by area elected officials and the project’s architect and contractors. In addition, renderings depicting the future state-of-the-art facility will be on display for individuals to view. An open house on the Findlay-area Campus will precede the groundbreaking ceremony at 9:15 a.m.

Owens’ new community education and wellness center is being built adjacent to the new Findlay-area Campus education center and will provide expanded educational choices highlighted by a community and corporate training center. The 24,641 square-foot building will feature three classrooms, including a wireless seminar classroom with tiered seating for more than 150 individuals. The College’s facility will also include two computer labs and two multifunctional industrial laboratories/shop bays, as well as a wellness, cardiovascular and fitness center for general student use.

In addition, the Findlay-area Campus phase two construction project, which is slated for completion in January 2007, will feature a community-oriented, multipurpose center for continued education that will accommodate 350 banquet seating or more for a variety of events and will include on-site catering services.

Designed by the firm Rooney, Clinger, Murray Architects of Findlay, the exterior of the building will match the existing facility’s architecture with Belden brick, colored concrete block, reflective glass plate and curved metal canopies over the entrance doors. Charles Construction Services of Findlay will serve as the general contractor, while Warner Mechanical Corp. of Fremont and Westfield Electric Inc. of Gibsonburg will oversee combined plumbing/fire protection/mechanical and electrical contracts, respectively.

In 2005, Owens marked a milestone in the academic institution’s history by opening a new $17.7 million Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ new education center provides an array of academic resources, highlighted by 38 advanced technology classrooms, 27 technical and computer laboratories, and student services areas. Included in the new student services areas are a Bursar’s Office, Records Office, Financial Aid Office and Enrollment Services Office.

Additional features include a Bookstore, Commons area, Library, Jaguar Grill, Conference Room, and the Voorhees Conference Center. Encompassing 119,407 square feet, the 60-acre campus is located at 3200 Bright Road on Findlay’s northeast side.

Owens’ new Findlay-area Campus is home to more than 100 degree and certificate program areas. Among the academic program offerings available to students are arts and sciences, business and information technology, health sciences, technology, public safety and emergency preparedness, and skilled trades. A record-setting 5,296 students attended classes on the new Findlay-area Campus during the past fall and spring terms.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Strengthens Institution Through Integration and Leadership Initiatives

Posted on May 10th, 2006

Committed to enhancing its academic mission of providing excellence in higher education, Owens Community College is aligning its institutional structure by integrating Student Services, Academic Services, and Marketing and Communications under the leadership of the Provost’s Office. The integration allows for these areas to work even more closely together in helping them achieve the College’s mission of serving its students and surrounding communities.

As a result of Owens’ organizational changes, Dr. Paul Unger, provost, has been named executive vice president/provost for the College. In addition, Dr. Bruce Busby, associate vice president of Academic Services, becomes the new vice president of Academic Services.

“Owens Community College is committed to providing a higher educational experience that changes students’ lives and strengthens the surrounding communities,” said Christa Adams, Ph.D., president of Owens Community College. “Paul Unger and Bruce Busby are visionary leaders whose extensive background and experiences have been invaluable to this College. Their continued leadership, along with these organizational changes, will enable Owens to more effectively align the structure of our institution in fulfilling our mission of student success.”

Dr. Unger will continue to serve as Owens’ chief academic officer, as well as oversee the areas of Student Services, Academic Services and Marketing and Communications. Dr. Busby assumes day-to-day responsibility for all academic areas, and the academic deans and departments will work under his leadership and guidance.

Dr. Unger was appointed provost for Owens in 2002. In this position, he is the chief academic officer with supervision over five schools of the College, the Library, Institutional Research, Planning and Grants, Marketing and Communications, and Student Services.

Since his arrival at Owens in 1992, Dr. Unger has been instrumental in supporting the infusion of state-of-the-art technology throughout the academic programs and the addition of the baccalaureate transfer curriculum in 1994 as the College was chartered from a Technical College to a State Community College. He also worked to secure the permanent Charter of the College as a State Community College and created the weekend college and distance learning offerings that currently enroll over 12,000 students.

His organizational memberships include the State of Ohio Chief Academic Officers of Two-Year Colleges, Northwest Ohio Tech Prep Consortium and National Council of Instructional Administrators. He is also a member of many statewide committees with the Ohio Board of Regents. Dr. Unger holds a doctorate degree in community college administration from the Ohio State University. After serving in the United States Marine Corps, he earned his master’s degree and bachelor’s degree in business from Central Michigan University and Wright State University, respectively. He resides in Sylvania.

Dr. Busby joined the College as associate vice president of Academic Services in 2004. His responsibilities entail assisting the Provost with all aspects of administration for Academic Services. He also oversees academic planning, curriculum development, budget management and facility planning. Additionally, Dr. Busby provides assistance within the College’s outcome assessment and retention programs, distance learning, and program review and evaluation process.

Prior to joining Owens, Dr. Busby served as the dean of Arts and Sciences for Northwest State Community College. While at Northwest State, he was responsible for establishing the community college’s Student Success Center to address strategic goals for persistence and program completion among students. Through his leadership, Northwest State created the Heritage Arts Center as an institute for regional studies, integrating the Elder Hostel Program, the Center for Life-Long Learning, the Black Swamp Heritage Collection as well as credit and non-credit courses, regional partnerships and exhibitions celebrating the heritage of the Black Swamp region.

His professional and community involvement includes serving on the Workforce Development Steering Committee for the Ohio Bridges to Opportunity Initiative and holding board-level membership on the National Association for General and Liberal Studies and ProMedica’s Defiance Regional Medical Center Foundation. He previously served as an Ohio Association for Developmental Education board member.

A resident of Toledo, Dr. Busby earned his doctorate and master’s degrees in English from the University of Tennessee and a bachelor’s degree in English from Southeastern Louisiana University.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 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.

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Owens Community College Graduates Assist Fellow Students Through A New Cap and Gown Collection Program

Posted on May 5th, 2006

As another school year 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 its soon-to-be graduates to help future graduating classes by donating their garb to those less fortunate following Spring Commencement ceremonies on Thursday, May 11.

All caps and gowns received during Spring Commencement will be given to future Owens graduating classes as part of a new Student Government outreach program.

“Owens Community College’s Student Government sees the cap and gown collection program as a great opportunity for a new alum to instantly give back to the school by donating their cap and gown to those less fortunate students,” said John Byers, Owens coordinator of Student Involvement. “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 Byers, the donated caps and gowns for future Owens graduates are completely free of charge and come with only a minor stipulation.

“In order for a student to receive the garb they must give a few hours of their time to participating in student involvement activities at the College,” Byers said. “Owens students are engaged in a host of activities throughout the academic year. Their many initiatives are constantly making a significant impact, both for the College and the community. The cap and gown program is a great opportunity to expose even more students to the many campus life clubs and organizations that Owens has offer and experience the benefits of teamwork, leadership, responsibility and achievement.”

The College’s Student Government will be setting up collection points in the hallway adjacent to the Student Health and Activities Center. Graduates can drop off their cap and gowns immediately following the Spring Commencement ceremony on the Toledo-area Campus or by making an appointment with the Student Government office prior to Friday, May 19. Recent graduates can call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

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.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Owens Community College Relay for Life Raises Over $18,000 in Support of Cancer Research

Posted on May 4th, 2006

More than 300 area residents recently walked the night and early morning away in support of cancer awareness as Owens Community College hosted its fourth annual Relay for Life on the Toledo-area Campus. The 11-hour walking-journey for participating teams resulted in the College raising over $18,000 for cancer research.

Sponsored by the American Cancer Society, Owens’ Relay for Life is one of more than 300 similar cancer fundraising initiatives, occurring throughout Ohio. Since its inception, the Owens event has raised over $87,000 to support cancer research.

“Owens Community College is once again extremely proud to collaborate with the American Cancer Society and help in the fight against cancer,” said Elisa Rodriguez, Owens co-chair of the Relay for Life Committee. “Continuing to raise funds and promote cancer awareness are extremely important in the hopes that some day this disease will be eliminated.”

Established in 1985, Relay for Life was created to offer communities a unique, empowering and fun way to assist in the fight against cancer. Today, as the American Cancer Society’s signature event, approximately 4,200 communities and eight countries participate in the cancer awareness fundraiser.

Among the many highlights of the event were tributes to those individuals in attendance who have survived cancer. Twenty-two survivors together took part in a ceremonial first lap while cheered on by family, friends and Relay for Life participants. Special events included music and entertainment along with an array of games and activities.

The American Cancer Society is the nation’s leading community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by prevention, saving lives and diminishing suffering through research, education, advocacy and service.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Over 700 Owens Community College Students to Graduate During Spring Commencement, May 11

Posted on May 1st, 2006

Over 700 candidates for graduation, including 54 from the Findlay-area Campus, will receive their degrees and certificates during the 40th annual Spring Commencement at Owens Community College on Thursday, May 11. The commencement will be at 7 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the College’s Toledo-area Campus.

James M. Murray, president of Ohio Operations for FirstEnergy Corp., will serve as the distinguished keynote speaker for the College’s Spring Commencement.

“Owens Community College is extremely honored to have Mr. Murray with us to celebrate the academic achievements of our graduates,” said Christa Adams, Ph.D, president of Owens Community College. “Mr. Murray is an accomplished leader, both within the community and his profession. His insightful message will serve as an inspiration to the College’s graduating class as they become the educators, scientists, health care professionals, technologists, musicians, skilled laborers and business leaders of tomorrow.”

Murray began his career with Ohio Edison in 1969 at the W. H. Sammis Plant. He held various plant positions prior to becoming the coordinator of Personnel Relations in 1980. He was promoted to plant superintendent at Ohio Edison’s Gorge Plant in 1986, and in 1990, he became superintendent of the Niles Plant. Murray was promoted to regional president of Toledo Edison in 1997 and named to his current position in 2005.

Murray chairs or serves on the board of directors of numerous civic and community service organizations. He was named 2005 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser by the Northwest Ohio Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals for his role as founding chair of the Bay Park Community Hospital Foundation, and for his other civic activities. Those include serving as board member of the Regional Growth Partnership, the Toledo Symphony, COSI Toledo, Toledo Northwest Ohio Food Bank, ProMedica Health Services Board and the Owens Community College Foundation Board.

Additionally, he chaired the 2005-06 Greater Toledo United Way Campaign and is the 2006 chairman of the Jamie Farr Owens Corning Golf Classic. Murray also chairs the Greater Toledo Urban League as well as the ProMedica Physicians Board. He was chairman of the 2001-02 campaign for the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges Inc. and conference chairman for the 2002 International Sister Cities Conference, which was held in Toledo. He is a member of the American Legion and the Ohio Jaycee Senate.

Prior to joining Ohio Edison, Murray served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army, including a tour of duty in Vietnam. He and his wife, Kay, and son, Martin, reside in Perrysburg.

Irina Ashton of Luckey, a diagnostic medical sonography major, has been selected as the Owens class representative and will address the graduates during the Spring Commencement ceremony.

Graduating with honors, Ashton is a native of Russia who describes herself as a social, hardworking and extremely determined individual. Her favorite hobbies include sewing, knitting and camping.

Ashton, a former professional Russian folk dancer, is a 1987 Russia high school graduate who received a bachelor’s degree in physical education/dance from a Russian institution before enrolling at Owens in 2001. While an Owens student, she worked as an aid at Arrowhead Physical Therapy in Maumee.

Ashton credits the educational success she has achieved to her supportive husband, Dillon, as well as to the rest of her family.

“Dillon was such a large part of my success at Owens,” Ashton said. “I knew little English before coming here, and he helped proofread all of my papers and explained to me how to build sentences. He was my at-home assistant.”

She added, “The rest of my family has been wonderful too. My parents wish me good luck over the phone before every test and my mother-in-law has really been supportive throughout this process as well.”

The focus of her Commencement speech will address her personal success story, as well as discuss the great educational opportunities available to students of all races, genders and economic classes in the United States.

“It may sound cliché, but, in my case, this country has truly been the land of opportunity,” Ashton states in her speech. “It was always a dream of mine to work in the medical field, but in my home country you had to have the connections to get into the good colleges, regardless of grades, drive, social standing or desire. Even though in the papers it would say that everyone had ‘equal opportunities,’ this was not true. Now, at age 36, I have finally been able to accomplish my lifelong professional goal.”

A mother of two, Ashton looks forward to applying her skills in a “real-world” situation and giving “something back to the country and community who welcomed her with open arms.”

More than 6,000 family, friends and relatives are expected to attend the Spring Commencement, which is open to the public.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Owens Establishes One of the First-Ever Intercollegiate Community College Sailing Clubs

Posted on April 20th, 2006

Hard astern, ballast weight and cast off are just a few of the terms individuals might hear around Owens Community College these days as the excitement of sailing has taken the Toledo-area Campus by storm – no pun intended. Sailing recently become the latest addition to the College’s student involvement activities and competes against schools that include Indiana University, the University of Michigan, Purdue University, the University of Notre Dame and The Ohio State University, to name a few.

In addition to participating in regattas and boat races against four-year schools with longstanding sailing program traditions, Owens is venturing into uncharted waters as a two-year academic institution by becoming one of the first community colleges in the country to introduce sailing as an intercollegiate club sport.

“Owens Community College is so excited to offer new opportunities for our students,” said John Byers, Owens coordinator of Student Involvement. “A sailing club is obviously one of the more unique clubs and organizations currently available to Owens students. However, the uniqueness is certainly one of the reasons that the club sport is growing in popularity as there are already 18 students participating in the organization.”

Byers added, “I really commend the students for getting the program off the ground. They are the main reason that this club became a reality. The Sailing Club is a welcome addition to campus life and will afford new opportunities for the College’s students to experience the benefits of teamwork, leadership, responsibility and achievement.”

The Sailing Club is a member of the Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association of North America (ICSA) and participates in the Midwest College Sailing Association (MCSA), which includes 35 academic institutions throughout the Midwest. More than 3,000 individuals participate at the association’s member colleges and universities. The MCSA hosts more than 30 regattas annually, occurring both in the spring and fall seasons.

Owens’ program recently participated in its first-ever regatta at Notre Dame and to most competing school’s surprise, except the Sailing Club, finished second out of 13 other four-year colleges and universities, including Notre Dame, Marquette University and the University of Wisconsin.

For Owens student Ryan Lashaway of Toledo, the Sailing Club’s second-place finish was not a surprise to either himself or his teammates. “I don’t think we were shocked by our results and actually expected to hold our own in the College’s first-ever regatta,” he stated.

Lashaway, an architectural engineering major and Sailing Club president, added that Owens’ success was more of a shock to the competing schools. “Many of the competing four-year colleges and universities came up to our group and wondered where Owens Community College was located, having never heard of the school before,” explained Lashaway, who began racing at the age of 5 and was instrumental in bringing sailing to Owens. “I think our experience and competitiveness as a new sailing program dumbfounded the other schools.”

Owens has continued to build upon its impressive finish at Notre Dame by placing fourth and fifth at the Miami University in Ohio’s April Fools Regatta and Ohio State’s Buckeye Intersectional, respectively. Additionally, the Buckeye Intersectional marked the first time that Owens participated in a national competition. The Sailing Club is planning to compete at Northwestern University’s Invitational Regatta this upcoming weekend, April 22-23.

In two weeks, intercollegiate sailing will come to Northwest Ohio as the College’s Sailing Club hosts its first-ever regatta titled the Lake Erie Collegiate Championship at the Toledo Yacht Club, May 6. Competing sailing programs will include Owens, Bowling Green State University, the University of Toledo and John Carroll University. Racing will begin at 9:30 a.m. The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend. In addition to spring semester competition, Owens’ Sailing Club is scheduled to participate in three regattas during the upcoming fall term.

“We’re really excited to host an intercollegiate regatta in our first year and are very appreciative to the Toledo Yacht Club and their support of Owens student clubs and organizations,” said Lashaway.

In addition to the Toledo Yacht Club allowing Owens to the use their venue for the upcoming regatta, the organization has provided the Sailing Club with four boats to use when practicing at the mouth of the Maumee Bay. The Sailing Club is also in the near future expected to purchase its very own sails through the support of the Owens Community College Foundation.

According to Lashaway, the team practices every Saturday and Sunday morning except for regatta weekends. “I really believe that practice is paying off for our team as we continue to improve our scores in regatta competition,” he said. “The next step is actually winning a regatta, which I believe will come very soon.”

In the meantime, Lashaway and his fellow students are building a reputation within the Midwest for Owens as a sailing college.

Owens students participating in the Sailing Club include Laura DiNardo of Toledo, Lindsay Gregory of Toledo, Lily Ingraham of Bowling Green, Ryan Leech of Toledo, Jim Richards of Bowling Green, Torey Stroud of Perrysburg, Nick Turney of Toledo, Jessica Schwind of Rossford, Pat McCarty of Toledo, Alex Zalar of Oregon, Chris Asplin of Grand Rapids, Brian Bradley of Perrysburg, Mike Stark of Bedford, Mich., Ben Mercer of LaSalle, Mich., Sarah Trace of Toledo, Silvia Galizzi-Sabino of Elmore and Tankut Oezel of Bowling Green.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Owens Student Group Collects Clothing and Raises Funds During First-Ever Sleep Out for the Homeless

Posted on April 18th, 2006

Each night in communities throughout Northwest Ohio, many individuals are faced with the uphill struggle of finding a place to sleep that is warm and out of Mother Nature’s ever-changing elements. For Owens Community College’s Student Nursing Association the thought that this situation is played out daily was too much bear and recently took it upon themselves to learn what it would be like to do without shelter by spending a night under the stars to raise homelessness awareness.

As part of the organization’s first-ever Sleep Out for the Homeless event, participants spent 24 hours camping out in bitterly cold temperatures on the College’s lawn between Health Technologies Hall and College Hall on the Toledo-area Campus. Not only was the goal to make more people aware of homelessness occurring locally, but also to raise funds and collect basic hygienic and clothing materials to benefit the Sparrow’s Nest in Toledo.

As a result of the organization’s efforts, more than $5,000 worth of supplies and monetary donations were collected during the event.

For Owens Student Nursing Association member Wendy Smith, the weather was almost too much to take as the evening temperature dipped below the freezing mark. “It’s hard to believe that there are people trying to survive in these conditions on a daily basis,” she said. “Nobody should ever have to sleep out in the cold. It’s not humane.”

According to Michelle Wagner, Owens Student Nursing Association member and event organizer, the Sleep Out for the Homeless event grew out of a group project on homelessness for an Owens nursing class. “We found information regarding the concept of a sleep out event to raise homelessness awareness and thought it would be a great idea to apply our coursework and help the Sparrow’s Nest through community service outreach,” she explained. “I don’t think I will ever forget this experience and hopefully these donations will make a world of a difference for individuals who are in need.”

Among the basic hygienic and clothing materials collected as part of the Sleep Out for the Homeless were deodorant, laundry soap, sandwich bags, toothbrushes, toothpaste, bar soap, twin sized sheets, towels, nightgowns, slippers and socks.

“It is great to see positive examples of people in the community taking the initiative to help confront problems related to homelessness,” said Rodney Schuster, director of development for Cherry Street Mission Ministries. “It’s not the number of people who make an effort to help others, it’s the fact that someone is making the effort. These students are a tremendous example of what is right in our community. I commend them for their activism.”

The Sparrow’s Nest, which is located in Toledo, is a division of the Cherry Street Mission Ministries. The organization provides emergency relief such as shelter and food for homeless women, as well as helps them build their confidence through the Ready for Life program. The Sparrow’s Nest aided more than 400 women in the Toledo area in 2005 and currently has occupancy of more than 50 beds.

The Student Nursing Association, which is open to all pre-nursing and nursing students, is one of the longest active student organizations at Owens Community College. The student organization’s overall mission is to provide avenues for individuals to engage in community service activities and to serve as a support network for students. The organization recently expanded its educational opportunities to include a new Findlay-area Campus chapter in 2005. There are currently 40 nursing students actively participating in the Toledo-area Campus chapter.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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TAFT PROMOTES EDUCATION REFORM AGENDA AT OWENSHolds roundtable discussion with education, community leaders

Posted on April 6th, 2006

Governor Bob Taft recently discussed his education
reform agenda, the Ohio Core, during a roundtable discussion with
education and community leaders at Owens Community College. The Governor
is calling for a more rigorous core curriculum to become a high school
graduation requirement for all Ohio students. The Ohio Core aims to
better prepare high school students for success on the job and in college,
and reduce college remediation rates.

“When it comes to high school, it’s not just about graduation – it’s about
preparation,” said Taft. “The world has raised the bar, and we must act
to raise the bar for high school graduation. It’s time to require all
high school students to take a more rigorous core curriculum that gets
them on the right course to succeed in college and on the job.”

Roundtable discussion participants included Owens Community College
President Dr. Christa Adams, Medical University of Ohio President Dr.
Lloyd Jacobs, Sylvania Schools Superintendent Dr. Brad Rieger, Fifth Third
Bank Vice President for Community Affairs Larry Sykes and Owens Community
College student Nicholas Huenefeld, each of whom offered a unique
perspective on how best to prepare students for success in college and in
the workplace.

If enacted by the legislature, Taft’s education reform plan would
establish a rigorous core curriculum as the default standard for all of
Ohio’s high school students, beginning with the class of 2011. The plan
would:

• Require all students to incorporate the Ohio Core, a set of
  rigorous high school expectations that include four years of math,
  including Algebra II; three years of lab-based science, to be chosen from
  physical science, biology, chemistry and physics; four years of English;
  three years of social studies; and at least two years of a foreign
  language. Students may still take a variety of paths to graduation
  including Tech Prep, career tech programs, Project Lead the Way and others
  that will integrate the rigor of the Ohio Core into the program;
• Make completing the Ohio Core a condition of admission to Ohio’s
  state-funded, four-year colleges and universities;
• Move all remedial education to Ohio’s two-year campuses, where
  costs are lower;
• Require all students to take a college and work-ready assessment
  during their junior year to help determine if they are properly prepared
  for college and work after high school; and
• Add a measure to the School Report Card to indicate how well high
  schools are preparing students for college and work.

During his State of the State Address on January 25, Taft also proposed
giving every high school student in good standing the opportunity to earn
at least one semester of college credit while still in high school. The
Governor called upon the Ohio General Assembly to enact an education
reform bill containing his proposal during the current legislative
session.

The Ohio Board of Regents’ 2005 Transition from High School to College
Report found that only one in three of Ohio’s high school graduates have
the skills they need to be successful in a good entry-level job, an
apprenticeship, the military, or in college. And four out of every ten
students entering college right from high school needed remedial
coursework, at a cost to the state of $29 million per year. A survey of
recent high school graduates found that 39 percent of those who went to
college and 46 percent of those who went straight to work said they were
not well prepared and that in retrospect, they would have taken tougher
courses in high school.

The Ohio Core initiative is the next step in a series of education reforms
made during the Taft administration. Under the governor’s leadership,
Ohio has established new student and teacher standards and accountability
measures to guide success in the classroom. Next fall, funding to schools
will have risen by 56 percent since 1999, and through the Ohio School
Facilities Commission, more than $2 million a day is being spent to
rebuild Ohio’s schools.

At the higher education level, college enrollment and completion in Ohio
are at all-time highs, both up by 15 percent since Taft took office. State
funding for college student aid programs has increased by almost 50
percent since 1999. In addition, the Partnership for Continued Learning,
chaired by the Governor, is working to streamline Ohio’s education system
from Pre-Kindergarten through college and into the workforce to ensure
achievement at every stage.

“For too many, a high school diploma is not a passport to success, but
rather a broken promise,” Taft said. “If we work together, we can set the
right course for students, for workers and for the economic future of
Ohio.”

To date, 49 school districts, colleges, businesses, education groups and
other associations across the state have expressed support for the Ohio
Core initiative.

For more information, call the (567) 661-7500 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7500, or (419) 352-9504, Ext. 3542.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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HCR Manor Care Vice President Named to Owens Foundation Board of Directors

Posted on March 16th, 2006

Owens Community College has named R. Jeffrey Bixler, vice president, general counsel and secretary of HCR Manor Care in Toledo, to serve on the Board of Directors for the Owens Community College Foundation. The College’s Foundation Board of Directors approved the new appointment during the recent quarterly meeting.

Bixler is one of 22 leaders within the government, business and industry communities comprising the Foundation’s Board of Directors. The Owens Foundation was incorporated in April 2002 and has over $1.8 million in assets.

The mission of the Owens Foundation and its Board of Directors is cultivating gift initiatives, targeting successful alumni, business and industry members who are committed to investing and supporting the educational needs of current and future Owens Community College students. The Foundation’s focus allows Owens to continue offering affordable tuition, ensuring the College’s academic position as the best investment in Northwest Ohio. The Owens Community College Foundation has awarded over $823,000 in scholarships and program support since incorporation in 2002.

Bixler was named the vice president, general counsel and secretary of HCR Manor Care in 1991. His responsibilities entail managing the organization’s legal department, which provides health care services to more than 40,000 patients per day through 60,000 employees. HCR Manor Care has more than 500 locations in 31 states. Prior to his current position, Bixler was a partner with Cooper Walinski LLP in Toledo and a senior attorney with Owens-Illinois Inc. in Toledo.

His professional and community involvement includes serving on the Board of Trustees for the Toledo Bar Association and the Dean’s Advisory Board for the University of Toledo College of Law. He is also co-chairman for the Advisory Board of the Legal Aid of Western Ohio.

Bixler earned a juris doctorate from the University of Toledo College of Law and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Dayton. He resides in Toledo.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Owens Dental Program Brighten Smiles For Area Children During Give Kids A Smile Day

Posted on March 13th, 2006

Oral hygiene, X-rays and fillings were the focus of free dental appointments at Owens Community College as more than 100 Northwest Ohio elementary and high school students’ teeth were transformed to pearly whites during the nationwide Give Kids A Smile Day.

Owens’ Dental Hygiene program, in collaboration with the Toledo Dental Society, recently offered a day of free dental services for underprivileged children at the College’s Dental Hygiene Clinic.

For 3-year-old Cayden Raye of North Baltimore, the experience of having his teeth cleaned was a breeze. Showing off his pearly whites to both his mother, Charity Rayle, and Owens dental hygiene student Chrissy Vogelpohl of Millbury, Cayden summed up the dental appointment in two words – “pretty cool.”

And don’t forget about the “water gun” used to rinse Cayden’s teeth during the cleaning. “I call him Mr. Thirsty,” explained the delighted youngster.

“I think Give Kids A Smile Day is a great program and I am really appreciative to Owens Community College,” said an appreciative Charity Rayle. “Dental care is extremely expensive. The opportunity to receive dental services for my children at minimal cost is a blessing. I am very grateful to the Owens Dental Hygiene program and their students.”

Give Kids A Smile Day is a national initiative by the American Dental Association to focus attention on the epidemic of untreated oral disease among disadvantage children. The event provides free oral health education, screening and treatment services to children from low-income families across the country. In 2006, nearly 40,000 dental professionals and volunteers provided free educational, preventive and restorative dental services to children at approximately 2,000 locations. The event is annually held in conjunction with National Children’s Dental Health Month.

“Owens Community College’s Dental Hygiene program is proud to 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.”

Tronolone added, “If untreated, tooth decay just continues to get worse and affects children’s overall health. Our goal was to provide each attendee a positive dental experience and help them feel comfortable smiling again.”

Owens Dental Hygiene second-year students, faculty and alumni conducted the dental services, which included dental education and screening, X-rays, oral prophylaxis (cleanings), limited restorations and dental sealants. In addition, first-year students from the health program provided educational presentations for parents and children.

Local communities benefiting from the free dental services included Bowling Green, Elmore, Genoa, Monclova, North Baltimore, Northwood, Perrysburg, Rossford, Toledo and Woodville.

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.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Owens Student Organizations Choose to Spend Spring Break Helping Louisiana and Honduras Residents in Need

Posted on March 3rd, 2006

Spring Break is usually a time when college students head south for a bit of relaxation, rejuvenation and good old-fashioned fun in the warm tropical sun. For a group of Owens Community College students and alumni, however, heading south for Spring Break means a week of hard, manual labor to help out those in need.

In a collaboration between Owens’ Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) on the Toledo-area Campus and the Rotaract Club, five current students, one alum and one faculty advisor will be heading south to Slidell, La., on March 4 to assist an abused children’s shelter in reconstructing its facility in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

While at the abused children’s center, which is named K-Bar-B Youth Ranch, the volunteers will be responsible for cleaning, putting up drywall and painting.

“The core mission of both student organizations is to not only assist Northwest Ohio, but also aid other communities, throughout the United States and the world, in need through outreach projects,” said Andrew Timothy, Owens instructor of Accounting and faculty advisor for the Toledo-area Campus’ SIFE and Rotaract student organizations. “SIFE and Rotaract students have been instrumental in this endeavor and have taken on a leadership role in ensuring service to our southern neighbors.”

Helping at the children’s shelter is not the only item on the agenda, however. This unique philanthropic effort involves many other components.

As a result of attending a January 2006 Uniendo Conference, which focused on humanitarian service efforts worldwide, held in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, SIFE and Rotaract students were able to make a strong connection with the Sula Vallee Rotary Club in San Pedro Sula and attempted to help them in securing medical supplies and equipment to aid the organization’s surrounding communities.

Through a Northwest Ohio connection, Owens’ SIFE and Rotaract organizations had recently come in contact with a local couple from Oak Harbor, who were interested in donating an ambulance to a worthy cause. With the knowledge of an available ambulance in Northwest Ohio, the Owens student groups coordinated with the Sula Vallee Rotary Club and volunteered to drive the ambulance to a New Orleans port where it will be shipped off to a Honduras local hospital.

In addition, Rotaract and SIFE will be caravanning down south in three additional vehicles, including a Book Mobile filled with books donated by the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library to benefit Grand Lake Branch Library in Cameron, La.; a van donated by the Maumee Rotary Club to the Slidell Rotary Club to benefit area senior citizens in Slidell; and a 12-person van donated by the College to transport the volunteers down south and back again.

Through private donations and the support of the Perrysburg Rotary Club and District 6600, the group is also taking with them a check for $7,500 to purchase extra supplies for the abused children’s center, as well as a gas card worth $1,600 donated by Marathon Oil Corporation.

Owens students volunteering their time to participate in the humanitarian efforts include Suzanne Bickford of Perrysburg, Dan Reyes-Cairo of Toledo, Aarik Kimberlin of Toledo, Lily Ingraham of Bowling Green and William Ash of Perrysburg. Owens alumnus Samuel Mallette of Toledo and Owens SIFE and Rotaract faculty advisor Andrew Timothy of Sylvania will be accompanying the students to the Gulf Coast region.

The volunteers will conclude their journey and their Spring Break by returning to the Owens Toledo-area Campus on Saturday, March 11.

“This is our opportunity to provide service for those who are in need,” explained Owens student Dan Reyes-Cairo. “Rather than resting and relaxing during Spring Break, we decided to work and help out others.”

SIFE was founded in 1975 to provide college students with educational opportunities designed to enhance their leadership, teamwork and communication skills. Such educational opportunities are initiated by practicing the principles of market economics, business ethics, entrepreneurship and personal financial success through the implementation of various projects and SIFE-sponsored events. Currently, there are more than 1,200 SIFE organizations on college and university campuses in over 40 countries. The College currently has SIFE organizations on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses.

The Owens Rotaract Club is a Rotary-sponsored international organization with a primary focus of providing community and international service. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, the Owens Rotaract Club is comprised of young men and women who are dedicated to local volunteer work, as well as traveling abroad to aid impoverished nations.

Rotary International is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Founded in 1905, the Rotary Club was the first service-oriented club in the world. Today, approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 31,000 Rotary clubs located in 167 countries. Rotary International also awards scholarships and offers a wide range of humanitarian grants and educational programs that enable Rotarians to bring hope and promote international understanding throughout the world.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Owens Community College Appoints Board of Trustees to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 14th, 2006

Owens Community College has appointed Dr. Ronald A. McMaster and John Moore to serve as the chairman and vice chairman for the Owens Community College Board of Trustees. Dr. McMaster and Moore were elected to their positions by their fellow colleagues during the recent Owens Community College Board of Trustees meeting and will serve one-year terms.

“Owens Community College has an outstanding group of Board of Trustees members who value the importance of a quality college education and the many benefits of lifelong learning,” said Christa Adams, Ph.D., president of Owens Community College. “Each individual is passionate about higher education and engaged with the College’s faculty, staff and students. We are fortunate to have such dedicated leaders who want to make a difference in the lives of others.”

Appointed in March 1993, Dr. McMaster is the president of McMaster Motor Co. and McMaster Fuel Ltd. Retired from GlassTech Inc. as vice president of Corporate Development, he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Ohio State University and a doctoral degree from the University of Michigan, all in mechanical engineering. Dr. McMaster resides in Perrysburg.

A graduate of the University of Toledo with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Moore spent 30 years in banking and 10 years in higher education at Bowling Green State University. Appointed to the College’s Board of Trustees in April 2000, he now serves as a consultant and recently authored a book on surviving stress. He resides in Holland.

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

In addition to Dr. McMaster and Moore, Owens Community College Board of Trustees members include John G. Ault of Perrysburg, Allan J. Libbe of Perrysburg, RJ Molter of Woodville, Carl R. Patterson of Findlay, H. Richard Rowe of Findlay, Jack T. Sculfort of Perrysburg and Diana H. Talmage of Toledo.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Owens Celebrates Opening of New Findlay-area Campus Child Care Center with Findlay Fun Days, Feb. 23 and 25

Posted on February 13th, 2006

FINDLAY – Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus will offer area residents and their children the opportunity to enjoy two separate days of fun and activities as the Child Care Center celebrates the opening its new facility with Findlay Fun Days, February 23 and 25.

Findlay Fun Days will occur on Thursday, February 23 from 5-7 p.m. and on Saturday, February 25 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Owens’ new Child Care Center is located southwest of the Findlay-area Campus education center at the convergence of Township Road 212 and County Road 18.

“Owens’ new Child Care Center is a great educational addition to the Findlay-area Campus and to children throughout the Hancock County region,” said Stephanie Davis, Owens coordinator of the Findlay-area Campus Child Care Center. “This new facility will enable Owens to provide the latest in innovative child care services for not only our students and employees, but also the surrounding communities.”

Family Fun Day attendees will be able to take part in various activities throughout event, highlighted by face painting and interactive educational games in the Math, Science, Creative Art, Writing, Language and Literacy learning centers. Additionally, third grade students from Findlay’s Chamberlin Hill Intermediate School will be reading to visiting children as part of both days. Parents and children will also be able to tour the building and meet the Child Care Center staff.

The new stand-alone Child Care Center has space for approximately 40 children – nearly tripling the previous facility’s capacity. The Center cost $536,761 and includes two classrooms specifically intended to encourage learning and nurturing. Each room consists of a learning center that features computers, math and science, blocks and construction, creative art, woodworking, reading, and writing.

Additional features of the 2,990 square-foot building include a warming kitchen, a lunch room, an office, a children’s restroom and an adult restroom. Windows, allowing for natural lighting, are highlighted throughout the building, as well as an area designated as an art studio. The new facility also allows the staff to display children’s projects so that parents, community and the children themselves can view their creative masterpieces.

Owens’ Findlay-area Campus has been providing quality child care to the Hancock County region since 1993. The program was created with the overall mission of offering excellence in child care services by providing the latest in innovative teaching and learning methods. Child care services on the Findlay-area Campus are available to children ages 2 ½ to 5 of Owens employees and students, as well as community residents. Owens’ Child Care Center is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. year-round.

In addition, the College’s Child Care Center serves as an educational setting for the Early Childhood Education program. Students enrolled within Early Childhood Education have the opportunity to apply knowledge, obtained within the classroom, in a real-world setting by working with children enrolled at the Child Care Center. Many child care teachers and directors throughout the surrounding communities have begun their instructional careers at the Owens Child Care Center.

Beginning in 2006, Owens’ Child Care Center also becomes one of a select few schools across the United States to introduce a new philosophy, which centers on every child being afforded the right to grow and learn in a favorable environment. Named after a small town in Italy, the new philosophy, titled Reggio Emilia, stresses reflection, practice and further reflection, and coincides with the College’s ideals in believing that children’s unique ability allows them to express their learning in hundreds of different ways.

For more information about Owens’ new Child Care Center on the Findlay-area Campus, call (567) 429-3596 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3596.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Owens Alumni Association Accepting Nominations For Outstanding Service Award Celebration in April

Posted on February 8th, 2006

Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is recognizing the tremendous contribution that area police, fire and emergency medical professionals make to Northwest Ohio’s surrounding communities by hosting the third annual Outstanding Service Awards. The recipients will be honored as part of a community celebration on Friday, April 28.

The College’s Alumni Association is presently accepting nominations for the Outstanding Service Awards. Area residents are invited to nominate an individual or individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations need to be returned by Friday, March 3. The award is not limited to a single recipient, and the College’s Alumni Association encourages the nomination of more than one person when teamwork was the key element in their success.

“Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is proud to again honor our brave police, fire and emergency medical professionals for their dedication to making our lives safer,” said Janet Meacham, Owens president of the Alumni Association. “Our nation would not be experiencing freedom and safety as we know it without their selfless acts of public service.”

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

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

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

The College’s Alumni Association is open to all graduates or students who have successfully completed any credit or non-credit course at Owens. New members have the opportunity to serve on the organization’s Board of Directors or committees, utilize the Student Health and Activities Center, Common Computer labs, and Library services and attend a variety of social and networking events.

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

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Automotive Careers and Educational Opportunities Showcased at Owens Toledo Auto Show Preview Day

Posted on February 7th, 2006

More than 220 high school students from Northwest Ohio and Southern Michigan recently explored careers within the automotive industry, as well as received a sneak peek of the Toledo Auto Show, as Owens Community College, General Motors Corp. and the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) hosted a Toledo Auto Show Preview Day in early February.

The event began with more than 40 area General Motors service managers and representatives from the Toledo Speedway ARCA branch meeting with students and sharing information on career opportunities available within the automotive industry. Additionally, attendees had the opportunity to learn about the College’s Automotive Technology/General Motors Corporation Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP) and heard from Owens ASEP alumni share their career and educational experiences.

Following the informational program, students and instructors received a preview of the Toledo Auto Show, showcasing the latest state-of-the-art vehicles from more than 25 manufacturers. Organizations displaying vehicles included Acura, GMC, Saturn, Jeep, Pontiac and Chevrolet, among others. In addition, all students and instructors attending the Toledo Auto Show received tickets to an upcoming Toledo Motor Speedway event.

“The Toledo Auto Show Preview Day is a great opportunity for high school students to be exposed to educational opportunities and career choices within the automotive field,” said Tracy Campbell, Owens chair of Transportation Technology. “Owens Community College is excited to collaborate with the General Motors Corporation and the Automobile Racing Club of America and host an event where students are able to meet with automotive professionals who can provide insight into how to go about choosing various career paths after high school.”

Area high schools attending the Toledo Auto Show Preview Day included Clay High School, Four County Career Center, Penta Career Center and Whitmer High School.

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

Owens and the General Motors Corp. have a longstanding partnership through the College’s Automotive Technology/General Motors Corporation Automotive Service Educational Program. The two-year associate degree program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge to diagnose, correct, and repair electrical, fuel, emissions, and mechanical problems found in today’s modern automobiles. Owens students are taught by General Motors certified instructors and all lab/lecture instruction is specific to General Motors products. As part of the academic curriculum, students rotate between working full-time at a General Motors dealership and taking Owens classes full-time in eight-week increments. Scholarships are also available for prospective students interested in the program.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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18,616 Students Choose Owens to Pursue Educational Opportunities and Career Aspirations

Posted on January 24th, 2006

Owens Community College continues to provide Northwest Ohio residents excellence in higher education with 18,616 students choosing to attend the academic institution for Spring Semester classes.

Since becoming a comprehensive community college in 1994, Owens has more than doubled its Spring Semester student enrollment by an astounding 134 percent. The College enrolled 7,957 students for Spring Semester classes in 1994.

“Owens Community College has a long and proud tradition of making a difference in students’ lives,” said Dr. Bill Ivoska, Owens vice president of Student Services. “The College’s continuous growth in enrollment reinforces the fact that more students are choosing Owens Community College over any other college or university in Northwest Ohio.”

Dr. Ivoska added, “The foundation for this institution’s academic excellence is a result of our faculty and staff and their unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student succeeds. Their desire in wanting to make a difference is why Owens is Northwest Ohio’s leader in higher education.”

The combined Spring Semester enrollment of 18,616 students on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses surpasses the enrollment of 18,540 students during Spring Semester 2005. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus has 15,865 students attending classes, while on the Findlay-area Campus 2,751 students are enrolled. On both campuses, Spring Semester enrollment has increased 0.41 percent from last spring.

The College’s ethnicity/race student enrollment also continues to increase. For Spring Semester, 2,298 African-American students are pursuing an Owens education compared to 2,257 last year (1.8 percent increase). Additionally, Hispanic enrollment has recorded a 4.6 percent increase with 756 students attending classes compared to 723 during spring term 2005.

According to Dr. Ivoska, Owens also has made a fundamental point to build upon the educational needs of its students through the continued advancement of innovative programs, courses, teaching methods and academic resources.

New educational initiatives include Owens offering its first-ever academic courses on the Medical University of Ohio (MUO) campus during the 2005-06 academic year, giving the College its first-ever classroom presence in Lucas County. The College also marked a significant milestone as an academic institution in 2005 by unveiling a new $17.7 million Findlay-area Campus.

Additionally, the College is committed to making courses available through e-Learning by continuously expanding its educational choices. During the 2005-06 academic year, the College offered students the opportunity to enroll in the first-ever online associate degrees as part of the new eOwens academic curriculum. For Spring Semester 5,650 students are pursuing e-Learning courses – up from 4,418 last spring (27.9 percent increase).

To accommodate the record number of students, the College also within the last three years opened an $11 million Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus. In addition, Owens broke ground for a new Center for Emergency Preparedness in 2004. The Center will be the only state-of-the-art facility of this magnitude within the Midwest.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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Owens Findlay-area Campus Nursing Students Lift Children’s Spirits During Holiday Season

Posted on January 4th, 2006

FINDLAY – Happiness and cheer was abounding within area hospitals thanks to the recent humanitarian efforts of Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus’ Student Nursing Association. Hundreds of toys ranging from Care Bears to Candy Land board games, collected as part of a community wide drive, were given to more than 25 smiling children forced spend the holiday season in local hospitals.

“It feels great to see a child smile,” stated Craig Tobias of Defiance, an Owens registered nursing student and a member of the Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association.

Among the hospitals where Owens students personally hand-delivered the charitable gifts included the Blanchard Valley Regional Health Center in Findlay, Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, Lima Memorial Hospital in Lima and Fremont Memorial Hospital in Fremont.

For Russell Romans of Carey, the idea of being able to receive a gift while staying in the hospital was “pretty cool.” “It feels good,” said the appreciative Carey High School student as his eyes and smile widened when the gift was placed on his lap.

With the anticipation of discovering what was enclosed within the meticulously wrapped holiday paper, Romans politely asked his mother if it was ok to open the gift. Following a smile of approval and head nod, off came the holiday wrapping paper and to the delight of Romans appeared an electronic football game. “I always wanted an electronic football game,” explained Romans, who entered the Blanchard Valley Regional Health Center earlier in the day.

According to Angie Klausing of Ottawa, an Owens registered nursing student and president of the Findlay-area Campus Student Nursing Association, the amount of donations received from the community as part of the chapter’s first-ever toy drive was amazing. “These charitable donations hopefully made a world of difference for the area children who had to spend their holiday in the hospital,” she said.

Klausing added, “Many of the Owens nursing students conduct their clinical work in the area hospitals. This toy drive allowed us to show our appreciation for that and to make a significant contribution to the patients.”

The Owens Student Nursing Association has a rich and storied history, serving as one of the longest active student organizations at the College. In 2005, Owens expanded its student activities opportunities to include a new Findlay-area Campus chapter of the Student Nursing Association. The organization was created for Findlay-area Campus nursing and pre-nursing students with the overall mission of providing avenues for individuals to engage in community service activities, as well as to serve as a support network for nursing students. There are currently 20 nursing students participating in the Findlay-area Campus chapter.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students, making it the number one choice for new college students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers over 150 program areas in Agriculture, Business, Fine and Performing Arts, Health, Public Service, Skilled Trades, and Industrial and Engineering 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.

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