News Releases

27 Students to Graduate From Owens Basic Peace Officer Training Academies, July 27

Posted on July 26th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Twenty-seven students from the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will be recognized as Ohio Basic Peace Officer Training Academy graduates at Owens Community College on Wednesday, July 27.

The special ceremonies will occur at 7 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The College’s Basic Peace Officer Training Academy graduation is open to the public.

“Owens Community College is proud to continue its collaboration with the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission and recognize these 27 individuals for their educational accomplishment, as well as their decision to pursue a career in public service,” said Robert Albright, Owens Coordinator of Public Service Training Program.

Founded in 1970, the Basic Peace Officer Training Academy is offered on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses in cooperation with the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission. As part of the seven-month program, Owens police academy students take courses in patrol operations, firearms, defensive tactics and criminal investigation using modern, high-tech police equipment. Participants receive expert instruction from local police officers, sheriff’s deputies and corrections officers, as well as state and federal agents.

Following successful completion of the College’s Basic Peace Officer Training Academy, Owens graduates become eligible for certification as an Ohio peace officer. In addition, coursework earned by police academy graduates will apply toward an associate degree at Owens in law enforcement.

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

The following students have completed the required number of law enforcement contact hours set forth by the Ohio Revised Code and the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission.

Toledo-area Campus Basic Peace Officer Day Academy:
Amber Anderson of Curtice
Kyle Andrews of Toledo
Jeffery Bretzloff of Maumee
Larry Cover of Oak Harbor
Alexander Espinoza of Genoa
Donald Kreager of Woodville
Charles Lightner of Toledo
Andrew Mawer of Toledo
Michael Oehlers of Toledo
Steven Wilson of Toledo

Toledo-area Campus Basic Peace Officer Night Academy:
Antonio Aguilar of Toledo
Joseph Gust of Whitehouse
David Kensler of Toledo
Zachary Lamour of Toledo
Austin Malinovsky of Perrysburg
Kurt Schroeder of Toledo
Troy Wallace of Perrysburg

Findlay-area Campus Basic Peace Officer Academy:
Donovan Birkmire of Findlay
Jonathan Blakely of Leipsic
Adam Brickner of Alvada
Joseph Clinger of Upper Sandusky (sponsored by Forest Police Department)
Sutton Flick of Findlay (sponsored by Forest Police Department)
Todd Geise of Findlay
James Nye Jr. of Carey (sponsored by Carey Police Department)
Nicholas Rausch of Forest
Aaron Smith of Tiffin
Robert Tarris Jr. of Fostoria

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

Owens Community College Unveils New Popular Music Certificate Program

Posted on July 26th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area musicians interested in expanding their musical skills and talents in such areas of popular music, arranging, composing and performance will now have the opportunity to begin their educational journey at Owens Community College as the academic institution’s Department Fine and Performing Arts unveils a new Popular Music Certificate Program. Beginning Fall Semester 2011, the new academic program will be offered on the Toledo-area Campus.

“Owens Community College’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts is excited to expand our academic curriculum specific to the popular music concentration area and offer this region’s first popular music certificate program,” said Dr. Douglas Mead, Owens Chair of Fine and Performing Arts. “The interest in popular music continues to grow within our country, which has resulted in many individuals wanting to follow their musical passion and pursue personal or professional interests as musicians. The new certificate was created to support the future of popular music and to assist students in furthering their existing interests and skills as songwriters, composers, directors and performers within this growing field.”

Owens’ certificate in popular music will require 22 credit hours of coursework, which includes music theory, aural skills, song writing, audio recording, theory of popular music and small group ensemble, among other academic curriculum. The new educational program is designed to prepare students for employment in the popular music industry. Students will develop strong knowledge in performance, songwriting and arranging, as well as obtain experiential learning specific to basic recording techniques.

Additionally, Owens students will have the opportunity to utilize state-of-the-art recording technology classrooms, computer laboratories complete with innovative music industry-specific software and a studio space with audio equipment that includes mixers, processors, microphones and instruments. Upon program completion, individuals will be able to apply their knowledge and skills to work in entry-level or higher employment positions as songwriters, music directors, rock/pop band performers and composers/arrangers.

For additional information about Owens’ new Popular Music Certificate Program, call (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

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

Posted on July 25th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on July 21st, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College to Host Northwest Ohio Green Industry Summer Session, Aug. 3

Posted on July 21st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents and business professionals within the landscape, garden center, tree care and turf industry interested in expanding their knowledge about horticulture are invited to attend the 2011 Northwest Ohio Green Industry Summer Session at Owens Community College on Wednesday, Aug. 3.

Presented by Owens Community College in conjunction with The Ohio State University Extension/ABE Center, the workshop will occur from 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The event is open to the public.

The regional workshop will feature various presentations on insects and pesticides, tree and plant care, landscape, and workplace safety topics by industry professionals from The Ohio State University Extension, The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute, American Safety and Health Management Consultants Inc., PUCO Transportation Department and Owens Community College.

Attendees will have the opportunity to receive details about sustainable landscape ideas, the appeal of certain plants and why gardeners enjoy them, various types of oak trees that thrive in Ohio’s landscapes, herbicides, and new insecticides and miticides and their unique modes of action.

Other workshop sessions will include bio-based insecticides, working with and educating clients about uncommon landscape and turf problems, interesting plant pest problems of 2010 and implementing an effective safety program, among other topics.

In addition, Owens faculty member Matt Ross will serve as the Northwest Ohio Green Industry Summer Session keynote speaker and provide attendees with a presentation on the growing movement of urban agriculture specific to the recent changes in the landscape of de-industrializing communities.

The pre-registration cost for the workshop is $15. Individuals can also register the day of the event for $25. For additional information or to register, call (419) 354-9050.

Owens Community College to Host 2011 Midwest Regional Human Patient Simulation Conference, July 21

Posted on July 20th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 130 health care professionals from around the Midwest region will converge on Owens Community College to learn about the latest innovations in medical simulation and education as the academic institution’s School of Nursing serves as host to the 2011 Midwest Regional Human Patient Simulation Network (HPSN) Conference on Thursday, July 21.

Presented by Owens Community College, the Nursing Institute of West Central Ohio and METI, the conference will occur from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The event is open to the public and continuing education hours are available for health care professionals.

The conference will commence at 9 a.m. with welcome remarks followed by five one-hour seminar sessions about the latest hands-on approaches to medical simulation-based learning. The sessions will occur from 9:30-10:30 a.m., 10:45-11:45 a.m., 12:45-1:45 p.m., 2-3 p.m. and 3:15-4:15 p.m.

During the separate sessions, conference attendees will have the opportunity to receive details about simulation in geriatric, home and community based care; eDose and its innovative screen-based simulations to facilitate mastery of skills needed to safely and accurately perform medication dosage calculations in clinical practice; enhancing realism with moulage techniques; the integration of innovative medical technology into the classroom; incorporating simulation into the nursing curriculum; and simulation in trauma assessment and airway management, among many other topics.

Owens acquired its first human patient simulator in 2002 for experiential learning on the Toledo-area Campus. At the time, the College was one of only six educational institutions in Ohio to utilize the innovative technology within its academic curriculum.
Owens expanded its experiential learning resources to include human patient simulator technology on the Findlay-area Campus in 2005. Owens currently utilizes eight simulators (three adults, three pediatric and two baby simulators) for learning purposes within the College’s School of Nursing.

HPSN was founded in 1997 at METI’s Sarasota, Fla., headquarters will the overall goal of furthering the advancement of health care education through the integration of patient simulation into academic curriculum. METI is regarded as a world leader in furthering medical education simulation technology, which includes state-of-the-art human patient simulators and exam trainers, for the benefit of future doctors, nurses, first responders and military medics. Over 6,000 simulators are currently being utilized by community colleges, nursing schools, medical colleges, universities, hospitals and the military around the globe.

For additional information or to register, visit HPSN’s website www.hpsn.com ( http://www.hpsn.com/ ).

Owens Community College Announces New Exercise Science Concentration Associate Degree

Posted on July 19th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is expanding its educational opportunities within the School of Health Sciences by announcing the establishment of a new Exercise Science Concentration Associate Degree. Beginning Fall Semester 2011, the new academic degree will be offered on the Findlay-area and Toledo-area campuses.

“Owens Community College’s School of Health Sciences is excited to offer a new career pathway in the preventative wellness fields for students who are passionate about promoting and supporting active living,” said Marie Vasquez-Brooks, Owens Chair of Allied Health. “The new program concentration provides practical, hands-on experience working with individuals to make a positive lifestyle change that will keep our community healthy.”

Vasquez-Brooks added, “Health care professionals in today’s ever-changing world are challenged to prevent as well as treat. This new academic curriculum demonstrates our College’s commitment to prepare the next generation of wellness advocates to lead the way in all areas of prevention, ranging from research to recreational facilities.”

Owens’ associate degree in exercise science will require approximately 73 credit hours of coursework, which includes anatomy and physiology, the science of nutrition, life span psychology, medical ethics, athletic strength and conditioning, exercise technology and fitness assessment, biomechanics and exercise physiology, among other academic curriculum.

The new associate degree is designed to prepare students for employment as exercise science professionals within the health field. During the program, students will learn assessment techniques and methods specific to enhancing cardio respiratory fitness, muscular strength and endurance, body composition and flexibility in relation to comprehensive wellness. Individuals will also apply knowledge of the components and functions of the human anatomy and the body in motion as related to exercise training.

Additionally, Owens students will have the opportunity to design training programs based upon evaluation, goal setting, accepted training principles and maintenance of health levels of fitness. Experiential learning also includes identifying, evaluating, operating and providing instruction on various types of exercise equipment.

The degree is designed to prepare students to continue their academic aspirations at area four-year institutions and pursue a bachelor’s degree in such programs as sports management, athletic training, exercise physiology, exercise science, kinesiology, and leisure and recreation. Upon program completion, individuals will also be able to apply their knowledge and skills to work in entry-level or higher employment positions as fitness coaches, personal trainers and aerobics instructors.

For additional information about Owens’ new Exercise Science Concentration Associate Degree, call (567) 429-3181 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext 3181.

Owens Express Student-Athletes Named OCCAC 2010-11 Academic All-Conference

Posted on July 14th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Thirty Owens Community College student-athletes have received Academic All-Conference honors by the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) in recognition of their scholarly achievements for the 2010-11 academic year.

“Owens Community College is extremely proud to honor and recognize these student-athletes for their outstanding academic efforts within the classroom,” said Chris Giordano, Owens Dean of Student Life.

Selection criterion for the honored recipients is based upon achieving a minimum 3.30 grade point average.

Owens has been a member of the OCCAC since 1987. The other member schools comprising the OCCAC are Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, Columbus State Community College, Cuyahoga Community College, Edison State Community College, Lakeland Community College, Lorain County Community College and Sinclair Community College.

Student-athletes receiving OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors include:

Garrett Busch of Toledo (pre-business administration), a Start H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 4.0 grade point average.
Kyle Anderson of Monroe, Mich. (pre-professional engineering and electrical/electronics engineering), a St. Mary Catholic Central H.S. graduate (men’s golf) with a 3.75 grade point average.
Brooks Gradner of Bowling Green (associate of science, general concentration), a Bowling Green H.S. graduate (men’s golf) with a 3.62 grade point average.
Kevin Hoyle of Maumee (pre-business administration), an Anthony Wayne H.S. graduate (men’s golf) with a 3.84 grade point average.
Lee Schmidlin of Toledo (pre-physical therapist assistant), a Whitmer H.S. graduate (men’s golf) with a 3.91 grade point average.
Taronta Cole Jr. of Gulfport, Miss. (communication studies), a Gulfport H.S. graduate (men’s basketball) with a 3.35 grade point average.
Calvin Edwards of Delaware (pre-business administration), a Rutherford B. Hayes H.S. graduate (men’s basketball) with a 3.83 grade point average.
Sean Kaighin of Oregon (adolescence education), a Clay H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 4.0 grade point average.
Ababacar Ndoye of Ann Arbor, Mich. (associate of science, general concentration), an Ypsilanti H.S. graduate (men’s soccer with a 3.34 grade point average.
Kyle Whitmore of Toledo (criminal justice technology), a Start H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.37 grade point average.
Sydney Barron of Monroe, Mich. (pre-dental hygiene), a Jefferson H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.48 grade point average.
Kasey Graham of Oregon (early childhood education), a Clay H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.75 grade point average.
Alaina Haubert of Gibsonburg (pre-nursing), a Gibsonburg H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.61 grade point average.
Michelle Hollister of Newport, Mich. (pre-physical therapist assistant), an Airport H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.55 grade point average.
Ashlyn Michalak of Holland (pre-physical therapist assistant), a Springfield H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.59 grade point average.
Jordan Ratliff of Petersburg, Mich. (pre-nursing), a Summerfield H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.45 grade point average.
Kristen Roznoski of Toledo (social work), a Cardinal Stritch H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.43 grade point average.
Hallie Thompson of Oregon (early childhood education), a Clay H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.58 grade point average.
Elizabeth Weber of Oak Harbor (early childhood education), an Oak Harbor H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.44 grade point average.
Ashleigh Whitacre of Toledo (middle childhood education), a Central Catholic H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.92 grade point average.
Bridget Wolfe of Bellevue (pre-medical imaging technologies), a Bellevue H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.84 grade point average.
Jessica Knueve of Kalida (architectural engineering technology), a Kalida H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.73 grade point average.
Alyssa LaVoy of Pemberville (biology), an Eastwood H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 4.0 grade point average.
Erin Schatzle of Monroe, Mich. (early childhood education), a Monroe H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.39 grade point average.
Amanda Schuster of Sylvania (pre-occupational therapy assistant), a Sylvania Southview H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.72 grade point average.
Shelby Schuster of Sylvania (pre-nursing), a Sylvania Southview H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.45 grade point average.
Jordan Floyd of Waterville (pre-biotechnology), an Anthony Wayne H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 4.0 grade point average.
Brittany Morris of Sandusky (pre-dental hygiene), a Margaretta H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.30 grade point average.
Saige Meyer of Deshler (pre-business administration), a Patrick Henry H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 4.0 grade point average.
Karrah Windau of Carey (associate of science, general concentration), a Carey H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.76 grade point average.

Owens Express Soccer Programs to Hold Open Tryouts, July 30

Posted on July 13th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate men’s or women’s soccer for Owens Community College are invited to open tryouts on Saturday, July 30.

The men’s soccer open tryouts will take place from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., while the open tryouts for the women’s soccer team will occur from 12-2 p.m. Both open tryouts will be held at the College’s Soccer Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Owens men’s soccer is led by Head Coach Art Johnson and completed its twelfth season as an Owens athletic program in 2010. The Express finished with an 11-10 overall record. Johnson’s team finished in third place in the final Ohio Community College Athletic Conference/Michigan Community College Athletic Conference (10-6 record) standings. Owens lost to Ancilla College in the first round of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The new women’s soccer program is led by first-year Head Coach Mary Whisler. In August 2010, Owens announced it was expanding its intercollegiate athletic programs to include a new women’s soccer team. The Express program officially begins NJCAA competition with the start of the upcoming 2011 fall season after serving as a club sport this past year.

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

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

Scholarships are still available and prospective Owens Express student-athletes must be high school graduates. For more information on the open tryouts, call (567) 661-7938 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7938.

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

Posted on July 13th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Owens Community College Names New Express Men’s Basketball Head Coach

Posted on July 12th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named David Clarke to position of Head Coach for the Express men’s basketball program. Clarke succeeds four-year Express Head Coach Kevin Skaggs, who recently accepted a basketball head coaching position at Mason High School in his hometown of Erie, Mich.

“I am proud to welcome David Clarke to Owens Community College and confident that he will continue the Express intercollegiate athletics’ longstanding tradition and commitment to providing the highest level of academic and athletic excellence for our men’s basketball program and student-athletes,” said Chris Giordano, Owens Dean of Student Life.

“I really believe that Owens Community College men’s basketball is one of the best intercollegiate programs in the country,” said Clarke. “I am really looking forward to representing Owens Community College and serving as Head Coach of the Express men’s basketball program.”

Clarke added, “The Owens men’s basketball program has a tremendous opportunity to educate each and every student-athlete so that they are prepared for situations they will encounter after leaving college. I also believe that the lessons learned on the basketball court, such as teamwork, competition, discipline, work ethic and sacrifice, are very valuable as they pursue their career aspirations.”

Clarke previously served as the Assistant Coach for men’s basketball at Mott Community College from 2009-11. During his tenure at Mott, he helped lead the program to an overall 59-7 record. Clarke’s responsibilities included assisting in all aspects of coaching, including recruiting and scouting upcoming opponents. Additionally, he held positions in men’s basketball operations for Bowling Green State University from 2008-09 and for the University of Toledo from 2006-08. Clarke’s basketball coaching experience also includes serving as an Assistant Coach for men’s basketball at Northwood University, a Student Assistant Coach for men’s basketball at Ferris State University and an AAU Coach for the Grand Rapids Storm.

During his intercollegiate men’s basketball career (2002-04) at Ferris State University, Clarke helped lead the Bulldogs to the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference regular season championship. Prior to Ferris State, the Harbor Springs, Mich. native played two seasons at Siena Heights University. Additionally, he is a member of the National Association of Basketball Coaches and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes organization.

The Express men’s basketball team finished the 2010-11 season with a 10-21 overall record and a 3-9 mark (sixth place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Owens lost to Columbus State Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The Maumee resident holds a bachelor’s degree in business education from Ferris State University and a master’s degree in recreation and leisure studies from the University of Toledo.

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

Posted on July 12th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College to Host Free ‘Key to Safe Teen Driving’ Program, July 20-21

Posted on July 11th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area teenagers ages 15 and older, with a valid driver’s license or driving permit, interested in enhancing their knowledge about safe driving are invited to attend a free Honda Teen Defensive Driving Program titled “Key to Safe Teen Driving” at Owens Community College, Wednesday-Thursday, July 20-21.

Presented by AAA Northwest Ohio, KeyBank, The Mid-Ohio School, Kumho Tires and Owens Community College, the free two-day “Key to Safe Teen Driving” class will occur from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Center for Emergency Preparedness’ emergency vehicle operations and driving course on the Toledo-area Campus. The Center for Emergency Preparedness’ emergency vehicle operations and driving course is located on Tracy Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to collaborate with AAA Northwest Ohio, KeyBank, The Mid-Ohio School and Kumho Tires and provide this unique community outreach opportunity for area residents to expand their knowledge about safe driving,” said Michael Cornell, Owens Director of the Center for Emergency Preparedness.

The free “Key to Safe Teen Driving” class will offer four separate sessions each day for area residents. The sessions will occur from 8-11 a.m., 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., 12:15-3:15 p.m. and 2-5 p.m. and include a classroom session and hands-on drills involving wet-braking, skid control and emergency lane change. The wet-braking and emergency lane change drills will be conducted using each participant’s street-legal automobile. Attendees are asked to remove all items from their vehicle’s trunk and any loose items in the passenger compartment, as well as check tire pressure and fluid levels prior to the program.

Program instruction will include the physics and dynamics of driving, defensive driving and responsible behavior, wet-braking, emergency lane changes and collision-avoidance, slalom and weight-transfer maneuvers, and adverse weather conditions, among many other topics. Experiential learning will take place in each participant’s own vehicle as well as in the program’s Honda Civic Skid Car. Vehicle maintenance and a tire changing demonstration will also occur during the program. The class will be taught by professional driving instructors from The Mid-Ohio School, which has offered performance driving and defensive driving programs for adults and teenagers since 1993.

Additionally, AAA Northwest Ohio will be hosting free vehicle inspections July 20-21 at Owens in conjunction with the “Key to Safe Teen Driving” class. Area residents will have the opportunity to have their vehicle inspected by AAA Car Care Plus ASE-certified technicians from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Center for Emergency Preparedness’ emergency vehicle operations and driving course.

The “Key to Safe Teen Driving” class was established in 2009 by KeyBank with the overall goal of improving the driving skills of teen drivers and raising awareness about the need for better training of young drivers. This year’s program features 14 events in 11 communities throughout Ohio and Indiana.

In addition to holding a valid driver’s license or driving permit, participants must show proof insurance and have use of a vehicle for the event. For more information or to register, call (877) 793-8667 or access the website www.keytosafeteendriving.com.

OwensWalter E. Terhune Art Gallery to Showcase Child Care Center Artwork, July 12 – Aug. 4

Posted on July 11th, 2011

A visitor to the College's Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery views artwork from the Children's Art Show in 2010. The seventh annual Children's Art Show will feature 3-D sculptures, paintings, drawings and self-portraits.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Children attending Owens Community College’s Child Care Center will display their artistic qualities, creative impressions and imaginative masterpieces as part of the seventh annual Children’s Art Show, July 12 – Aug. 4. This year’s show will be held for the fourth time in Owens’ Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery.

In addition, the College will host an opening reception for the artists on Tuesday, July 12 from 4:30-6 p.m. in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. Both the reception and exhibit are free and the public is encouraged to attend. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

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

“The Owens Child Care Center is excited to once again showcase the children’s works of art to their family, friends, teachers and the community,” said Maribeth Tercha, Owens Manager of the Child Care Center. “Creating an artistic environment where children can express their interests and emotions is an excellent method to broaden a child’s insight and heighten cognitive development.”

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

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

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

Admission to the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is free and open to the public, Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. For more information about the Owens Child Care Center Children’s Art Show, call (567) 661-7404 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7404.

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

Posted on July 7th, 2011

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

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

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

“Owens Community College is proud to recognize these new inductees for their outstanding dedication and commitment to higher education,” said Rick Clever, Owens Technical Director of Fine and Performing Arts and Co-Advisor. “Selection to Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society is certainly an honor that can only be achieved as a result of hard work and determination. Each and every student is very deserving and should be commended for their tremendous achievement.”

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

The Alpha Omega Pi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society student inductees for the 2011 Spring Semester are:

Shawn Allen of Toledo (information systems)

Sue Ambrose of Curtice (landscape and turfgrass management)

Jennifer Aschemeier of Bryan (pre-nursing)

Diane Bethel of Maumee(early childhood education)

Thomas Blackburn of Toledo (accounting)

Sandra Blair of Toledo (commercial art)

Seth Blankenbeker of Port Clinton(pre-occupational therapy assistant)

Ramandeep Bola of Findlay (biomedical electronics)

Kristen Boyd of Bradner (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Tim Brooke of Holland (adolescence education)

Megan Brosnan of Northwood (emergency medical management)

Trudy Brown of Toledo (accounting)

Anna Christen of Curtice (accounting)

Heather Clendenin of Toledo (environmental health and safety)

Caitlyn Cook of Haskins(music performance)

Nathan Curtis of Ada (business management)

Lisa Depinet of Republic (networking and information systems support)

Jacalyn DeSelms of Curtice (fine art)

Melissia Diebert of Genoa (business management)

Diane Dixon of Toledo (pre-nursing)

Rachel Dunn of Toledo (dental hygiene)

Teri Easter of Holland (culinary arts)

Sherina Edinger of Findlay (pre-radiography)

Joanne Fankhauser of Sylvania (registered nursing)

Danielle Fuller of Toledo (dental hygiene)

Mandy Gibbs of Toledo (networking and information systems support)

Sophia Goldsmith of Toledo (pre-dental hygiene)

Shelly Gray of Toledo (occupational therapy assistant)

Kristen Haase of Toledo (international studies)

Trisha Hamilton of Northwood (associate of arts, general concentration)

Ashley Hayes of Whitehouse (business management)

Jennifer Heck of Maumee (psychology)

Garnett Hegeman III of Toledo (information systems)

Keegan Helwig of Perrysburg (computer science)

Kellee Hensley of Oak Harbor(accounting)

Kyle Hill of Pemberville (pre-business administration)

YingJia Hu of Findlay (accounting)

Vera Huff of Sylvania (registered nursing)

Amanda Huffman of Toledo (pre-nursing)

Anthony Hunter of Toledo (music education)

Mark Jakubec Jr. of Whitehouse (pre-business administration)

Andrianne Jennings of Toledo (pre-paramedic to registered nursing)

Lisa Johnson of Genoa (medical office support)

Phatsawat Juikrathok of Northwood (undecided)

Ashley Kaptur of Sylvania (pre-medical imaging)

Christopher Kelsch of Perrysburg (accounting)

Tommy Kerr of Maumee (networking and information systems support)

Leah Kimmet of Bowling Green (accounting)

Jessica Knallay of Bradner (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Fern Lajambe of Toledo (administrative virtual assistant)

Angela Lawrence of Elmore (pre-nursing)

Jackie Lewis of Toledo (accounting)

Peter Lindau of Waterville (associate of arts, general concentration)

John Linde II of Maumee (marketing and sales)

Nicole Lobdell of Toledo (associate of arts, general concentration)

Monica Maddox of Toledo (business management)

Eric Magrum of Luckey (criminal justice technology)

Jonathan Mahler of North Baltimore(music performance)

Alexander Maroda of Toledo (undecided)

Megan Martinez of Toledo (adolescence education)

Alton McClain of Toledo (associate of arts, general concentration)

Kara McCloskey of Oak Harbor (social work)

Matthew McIntire of Perrysburg (registered nursing)

Lindsay McLaughlin of Toledo (accounting)

Valerie Michael of Toledo (pre-dental hygiene)

Beth Miller of Toledo (undecided)

Benjamin Miller of Gibsonburg (biology)

Carmen Myerholtz of McClure (accounting)

Patricia Newman of Toledo (registered nursing)

Diana Peer of Lambertville, Mich.(medical coding)

Michelle Peters of Whitehouse (pre-nursing)

Jessica Peters of Rossford (medical coding)

Megan Poulos of Toledo (biology)

Sarah Preston of Toledo (English literature)

Judith Ramirez of Toledo (social work)

Shannon Reyes of Maumee (pre-cancer information management)

Mark Richards of Sylvania (accounting)

Maranda Roach of Northwood (early childhood education)

Krista Roberts of Fostoria (health information technology)

Tammy Robinson of Toledo (pre-physical physical therapist assistant)

Megan Rock of Maumee (associate of arts, general concentration)

Garrett Rowell of Temperance, Mich. (electrical/electronics technology)

Victoria Ruiz of Toledo (accounting)

Katie Schmidt of Graytown (early childhood education)

Minu Sharma of Toledo (business management)

Jason Smith of Oregon (pre-licensed practical nursing to registered nursing)

Brittany Stanley of Toledo (pre-medical imaging)

Charlotte Straub of Saline, Mich.(criminal justice technology)

Haley Stuart of Toeldo (accounting)

Delseyna Swain-Anderson of Toledo(accounting)

Loretta Taylor of Toledo (medical coding)

Eric Taylor of Curtice (information systems)

Deann Toth of Toledo (criminal justice technology)

Krista Underwood of Elmore(business management)

Mary Visco of Holland (landscape and turfgrass management)

Jacob West of Rudolph (pre-professional engineering)

Ashleigh Whitacre of Toledo (middle childhood education)

Tiffany Whitehead of Delta (associate of science, general concentration)

Jeffrey Williams II of Bowling Green(associate of arts, general concentration)

Monmeta Wilson of Bowling Green (social work)

Amanda Young of Toledo (pre-nursing)

Matthew Zimmerman of Perrysburg (pre-business administration)

Owens Community College Express Softball Program Finishes Second in NJCAA National Championship Tournament

Posted on July 6th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College’s softball team recently completed its most successful season in program history finishing second among 16 teams in the NJCAA Division II National Championship tournament in Normal, Ill. The Express is the first women’s intercollegiate athletic program in school history to advance to the national championship game.

Owens totaled five victories and two loses during the three-day double elimination tournament. Tournament wins came against Mineral Area College, Heartland Community College, East Central College, South Mountain Community College and Kankakee Community College. The Express’ lone tournament loses were to eventual national champion Louisiana State University-Eunice. This was Owens’ second trip to the NJCAA Division II national championship tournament. The Express’ other national championship appearance occurred in 2005.

“I am extremely proud of our Owens Community College Express softball team,” said Owens Express Head Coach Duane Lanham. “It was truly an honor to coach this team. They represented Owens Community College and the Northwest Ohio region extremely well at the national championship tournament and are the first women’s program in school history to play for a national title. I couldn’t be more pleased with their effort both in the classroom and on the diamond this year. They have set the mark by which all future Owens Express softball teams will be measured, which is quite an accomplishment for such a highly successful athletic program.”

Express women’s softball completed the 2011 season with a 44-5 overall record and captured its tenth OCCAC (6-2 record) title in the program’s history. Owens also was ranked No. 8 in the final NJCAA Division II women’s softball regular season poll.

Express softball sophomore team members are Ashleigh Whitacre of Toledo, outfield (52 hits, 15 doubles, 41 RBIs, 40 runs and .409 batting average) (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.); Annie DeTray of Oak Harbor, infield (2 runs, 3 stolen bases and .143 batting average (Oak Harbor H.S.); Lindsey Bandeen of Holland, infield (62 hits, 14 doubles, 7 triples, 4 homeruns, 49 RBIs, 39 runs and .403 batting average) (Springfield H.S.); Elizabeth Weber of Oak Harbor, pitcher (7-1 record and 2.23 earned run average) (Oak Harbor H.S.); Matea Rice of Oregon, infield (36 hits, 14 RBIs and .353 batting average) (Clay H.S.); Kelley Molloy of Toledo, outfield (26 hits, 30 runs and .313 batting average) (Whitmer H.S.); Bridget Wolfe of Bellevue, catcher (55 hits, 4 homeruns, 31 RBIs, 30 runs and .369 batting average) (Bellevue H.S.); Courtney Parr of Castalia, pitcher (2-0 record and 4.15 earned run average) (Margaretta H.S.); Morgan Gray of Clyde, outfield (18 runs, 5 stolen bases and .250 batting average) (Clyde H.S.), and Courtney Mowery of Genoa, outfield (15 hits, 6 RBIs, 8 runs and .357 batting average) (Genoa H.S.).

First-year players to the softball program are Tabitha Britt of Maumee, outfield (2 runs and .250 batting average) (Maumee H.S.); Sydney Barron of Monroe, Mich., infield (10 hits, 5 stolen bases, 15 runs and .357 batting average) (Jefferson H.S.); Tayler Redinger of Fremont, infield (20 hits, 12 RBIs, 11 runs and .364 batting average) (Fremont Ross H.S.); Kristen Shock of Sylvania, catcher (1 RBI and .333 batting average) (Sylvania Northview H.S.); Allison Hausch of Bryan, catcher (30 hits, 21 RBIs, 14 runs and .448 batting average) (Bryan H.S.); Hallie Thompson of Oregon, infield (6 hits, 7 RBIs, 10 runs and .333 batting average) (Clay H.S.), and Ashlyn Michalak of Holland, pitcher (11-1 record and 2.59 earned run average) (Springfield H.S.).

Express first-year players also include Kristen Roznoski of Toledo, outfield (85 hits, 4 triples, 22 RBIs, 42 stolen bases, 64 runs and .509 batting average) (Cardinal Stritch H.S.); Jordan Ratliff of Petersburg, Mich., pitcher (19-3 record and 2.42 earned run average) (Summerfield H.S.); Kasey Graham of Oregon, pitcher (5-0 record and 2.94 earned run average) (Clay H.S.); Michelle Hollister of Newport, Mich., infield (42 hits, 15 doubles, 39 RBIs, 27 runs and .378 batting average) (Airport H.S.), and Alaina Haubert of Gibsonburg, infield (76 hits, 23 doubles, 4 triples, 7 homeruns, 51 RBIs, 53 runs, 13 stolen bases and .487 earned run average) (Gibsonburg H.S.).

Owens Community College Announces New Music Business Technology Degree Program

Posted on July 6th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Aspiring musicians, producers and recording engineers interested in enhancing their knowledge specific to the business side of the music industry will now have opportunity to pursue educational opportunities at Owens Community College as the School of Arts and Sciences unveils a new Music Business Technology Associate Degree Program. Beginning Fall Semester 2011, the new academic program will be offered on the Toledo-area Campus.

The two-year associate degree program recently received formal approval by the Ohio Board of Regents.

“The modern-day music industry is constantly changing and evolving, which makes it imperative that professionals within this field are on the cutting edge from a music and business perspective,” said Dr. Doug Mead, Owens Chair of Fine and Performing Arts. “Owens Community College is pleased to announce the establishment of a new Music Business Technology Degree Program that is designed to prepare students for careers in the highly competitive global music business environment. We want our students to become leaders in shaping the industry’s future.”

Owens’ associate degree in music business technology will require approximately 73 credit hours of coursework, which includes fundamentals of music, music business, audio recording, MIDI technology, accounting for small business, entrepreneurial marketing and contemporary business, among other academic curriculum.

The new program is designed to prepare students for employment in the music industry. Students will develop strong knowledge in producing recordings in conventional and digital formats, as well as obtain experiential learning specific to basic songwriting, artist management and booking, music production and sales, marketing and promotions, copyright and associated law, studio management and publishing. Individuals will also produce and critique sound recordings that demonstrate mastery over basic audio production values and techniques.

Upon program completion, individuals will be able to apply their knowledge and skills to work in entry-level or higher employment positions as musicians, vocalists, composers, producers and recording engineers.

In addition to the new Music Business Technology Associate Degree Program, the Department of Fine and Performing Arts offers a Music Business Technology Certificate Program.

For additional information about Owens’ new Music Business Technology Associate Degree Program, call (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext 7081.

Owens Community College to Host Detroit Pistons Youth Basketball Training Camp, July 29-30

Posted on July 6th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area basketball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as part of the Detroit Pistons 2011 Youth Basketball Training Camp Tour, Friday-Saturday, July 29-30.

The youth basketball training camp runs from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is pleased to continue its longstanding partnership with the Detroit Pistons organization and once again serve as host to their annual youth basketball training camp,” said Chris Giordano, Owens Dean of Student Life.

Camp instructors for the two-day event will include Detroit Pistons officials and players, Michigan college and high school coaches, and current and former collegiate basketball superstars. Youth in grades 1-12 will receive instruction on various basketball skills, highlighted by ball handling, passing, shooting, defense and rebounding. Additionally, participants will be evaluated on their skill level and compete in games and a variety of contests.

The registration fee for the camp is $89 per participant and space is limited. In addition, each individual will receive a Detroit Pistons’ reversible training camp jersey, a basketball and one free ticket to a Pistons home game and courtside pass.

During the past 14 years more than 28,000 boys and girls have attended the Detroit Pistons Training Camp Tour occurring throughout Ohio and Michigan. For more information, call (567) 661-7973, 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973 or (248) 377-8653.

Owens Community College to Host Free Japanese Anime Convention, July 9-10

Posted on July 5th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to experience one of the region’s largest Japanese animation and cultural gatherings around as Owens Community College serves as host to the third annual Glass City Con (GarasuNoShiCon), July 9-10.

Presented by Owens’ Anime Convention and Gamers United clubs, the Glass City Con will take place from 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center, Student Health and Activities Center, Math/Science Center and Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

The event will feature an array of activities highlighted anime screenings, video gaming, an electronic music dance, a cosplay competition, a fire show and entertainment panel discussions, as well as a number of vendors and featured artists.

Owens’ anime convention will commence with an opening ceremony at 11 a.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center. Following welcome remarks, convention attendees will have the opportunity to participate in several video, card-based and tabletop gaming activities.

In addition, individuals will have the chance to experience life as a video game character by participating in an interactive game in the Cosplay Arena, survive against zombies in Eaten Alive or battle one-on-one in the Battle Arena. A video game room will also be available for those interested in competing in array of unique Japanese and domestic games. Additionally, the convention will provide three screening rooms in the Math/Science Center for attendees to view various anime feature presentations throughout the two-day event.

Featured guests at the Owens convention will include voice actor Robert Axelrod, writer, producer and director Matt Greenfield, writer John Oppliger, musical performer Gavin Goszka, the musical tribute group The Salad Time Soldiers, kimono specialist Kerry Porter, voice actress Tiffany Grant, independent video game developer Galloping Ghost Productions, artist and voice actor Doug Smith and video game band Year 200X.

Axelrod is best known as the voice of Lord Zedd and Finster from the “Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers” series. He has also lent his voice to a number of anime features such as “Digimon”, “Robotech” and “Akira”. Greenfield has served as writer, producer and director for over 1,000 animated and live-action film and television productions. Professional groups in which he has worked with include ADV Films, the Anime Network, FUNimation, Madman Entertainment and Media Blasters. Oppliger, a leading expert on Japanese anime, is known internationally for his AnimeNation “Ask John” column, which is read by thousands of individuals worldwide.

Returning to GarasuNoShiCon for its third year is acoustic soloist Goszka. A fan of anime and Japanese music, a recent Goszka project had him working on a CD with Vocaloid Megurine Luka. The musical group The Salad Time Soldiers will also make a return to Owens. While the Ohio-based musical group won’t perform on stage, band members will be showcasing their handmade cosplay outfits and hosting informational panel discussions during the event.

Porter, who was exposed to the kimono and Japanese culture as a child, will be offering a large collection of kimonos for viewing and attendees will be able to interact with select kimonos during workshops. Grant is best known as the voice of Asuka from “Evangelion” and has over 1,000 voices to her credit, including Noir, Chrono and Crusade, among many others.

Galloping Ghost Studios is located in the Chicago area and will join the Glass City Con guest list as the video gaming guest of honor. Galloping Ghost is an independent video games developer currently in production of “Dark Presence” and “Conquering Light”. Last year, the studio opened its first public arcade and will be showcasing some of its video game production equipment for convention attendees. Smith, an artist and voice actor, has been involved in the anime industry for over 10 years. His most notable role was the lead in “Goldenboy” as Kintaro Oe, which is now distributed by Anime Works. Video game cover band Year 200X was founded in 2006 and recognized nationally for its musical selections specific to video games. The group’s debut album “We Are Error” was released in August 2008 to critical acclaim within the video game community.

In addition, over 65 regional and national venders and artists will be on hand for individuals to purchase DVDs, anime figures, jewelry, prints, bookmarks, posters, T-shirts, manga, kimonos and other merchandise and accessories.

For more information about the event, call (567) 661-2586 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2586, or access the website at www.glasscitycon.com.

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

Posted on June 30th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Express Baseball to Hold Open Tryouts, July 13

Posted on June 30th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate men’s baseball at Owens Community College are invited to open tryouts on Wednesday, July 13.

The open tryouts begin at 12 p.m. and will be held at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2011 season with a 25-13 overall record and in second place in the OCCAC (9-5 record). Coached by Del Young, Owens lost to Vincennes University in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships.

Individuals must register by July 10 to participate in the open tryouts. Prospective Owens Express student-athletes must be high school graduates, must bring a copy of their last physical and should bring their own equipment. For more information on the open tryout, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Owens Express Women’s Soccer to Hold Open Tryouts, July 7

Posted on June 20th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate soccer for Owens Community College’s new Express women’s soccer program are invited to open tryouts on Thursday, July 7.

The open tryouts begin at 5:30 p.m. and will be held at the College’s Soccer Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Owens Community College Announces First-Ever Express Women’s Soccer Head Coach

Posted on June 20th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Mary Whisler to serve as the first-ever Head Coach in the history of the Express women’s soccer program.

“We are thrilled to announce Mary Whisler as the new Head Coach of Owens Community College Express women’s soccer,” said Chris Giordano, Owens Dean of Student Life. “Mary is highly regarded within the soccer community and an outstanding leader who embraces the College’s mission. We look forward to her guiding our new Express women’s soccer team into its first season as an NJCAA intercollegiate athletic program.”

“I am very excited to be part of Owens Community College’s rich tradition of academic and athletic excellence,” stated Whisler. “This is an amazing opportunity and I look forward to beginning the process of building our program into one of the best intercollegiate soccer teams in the country.”

Whisler previously served as the Assistant Coach for women’s soccer at the University of Findlay from 2009-11. During her tenure at the University of Findlay, she helped lead the program to an overall 14-18-5 record. Whisler’s responsibilities also included recruiting, training and assessing talent. Additionally, she serves as the U-12 Head Coach of the Findlay Soccer Club and has served as the U-16 Assistant Coach for the Fort Wayne Sport Club in Fort Wayne, Ind. Whisler also was a Soccer Camp Staff Coach/Counselor at the University of Notre Dame.

Whisler was a three-time, First Team Mid-Central College Conference selection during her intercollegiate women’s soccer career (2005-08) at the University of Saint Francis. She also earned NAIA Honorable Mention Athletic All-American and Scholar-Athlete All-American honors.

The Findlay resident holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Saint Francis and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in education from the University of Findlay.

In August 2010, Owens announced it was expanding its intercollegiate athletic programs to include a new women’s soccer team. The Express program officially begins NJCAA competition with the start of the upcoming 2011 fall season after serving as a club sport this past year. The Owens women’s soccer club team was under the leadership of Art Johnson, the veteran Head Coach of the intercollegiate men’s soccer team.

Spring Pinning Ceremony Honors Registered Nursing Program Students at Owens

Posted on June 20th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 140 Owens Community College students were recently bestowed honorary pins by the School of Nursing signifying their completion of the registered nursing program during a ceremony on the Toledo-area Campus. The pinning ceremony is part of a traditional nursing practice, which honors students prior to beginning their careers within the health care community.

“Owens Community College is extremely honored to recognize our students for their hard work and dedication toward achieving their educational aspirations,” said Ruth Ankele, Owens Chair of Nursing. “The registered nursing program graduates have exhibited academic excellence at the highest level and are very deserving of their honorary pins.”

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

Nursing students receiving their honorary pins include Hanna Abunaw of Toledo, Michelle Agapiou of Fostoria, Lisa Anderson of Toledo, Stacey Avalon of Fostoria, Andrea Baker of Oregon, Cynthia Blum of Fremont, Charles Blair of Carey, Kristin Brown of Toledo, Lydia Butler of Toledo, Roberta Camara of Toledo, Kristen Carter of Waterville, Kristian Cardell of Toledo, Heather Cervantes of Oak Harbor, Marisa Coleman of Toledo, Christina Clark of Rudolph, Esther Clayton of Toledo, Eric Cochran of Perrysburg, Christopher Cook of Oxford, Remy Cromberg of Toledo, Dawn Czerniejewski of Toledo, Michael Czerniawski of Toledo, Korena Ditmyer of Toledo, Yolanda Dixon of Toledo, Emily Doster of Bowling Green, Michelle Droll of Findlay, Stephen Ehret of Toledo, Stephanie Eisentrager of Findlay, Jessica Fountain of Toledo, Benjamin Gable of Bowling Green, Randall Gandy of Toledo, Wendy Gardner of Pemberville, LaTisha Garth of Toledo, Daniel Gary of Perrysburg, Danielle Geroski of Findlay, Erin Graber of Bradner, Jennifer Gregg of Fostoria, Andrea Guerra of Toledo, Alyssa Hall of Toledo, Steven Harvey of Ypsilanti, Mich., Samantha Herman of Fostoria, Jeremy Hemminger of Findlay, Jammie Hendricks of Berkey, Drew Hertzfeld of Waterville, Lisa Herzog of Rossford, Angela Hubbard of Sylvania, Amy James of Perrysburg, Tamara Jeffries of Toledo, April Lajti of Toledo, Barbara Lanzi of Toledo, Haemin Lee of Toledo, Monica Lee of Southgate, Mich., Karin Long of Fostoria, Jody Lorenzen of Holland, Helen Lowery of Perrysburg, Julie Luginbill of Pandora, Benjamin Maas of Pandora, Stacie Mack of Sycamore, Rachel Majerski of Temperance, Mich., Sarah Markovich of Toledo, Jennifer Massingill of Toledo, Tina Martin of Berkey, Stephanie Matthews of Delta, Dawn Maxcy of Toledo, Amber McCormick of Toledo, Alisha McCreary of Toledo, Amanda Merry of Fostoria, Lynnette Mersing of Swanton, Stephanie Mickens of Toledo, Shanan Middleton of Swanton, Andrea Miller of Tiffin, Camille Miller of Toledo, Danielle Mixer of Grand Rapids, Mina Mollinger of Wayne, Sandra Mueller of Holland, Tiffany Nagel of Bloomville, Angela Nichols of Rossford, Donna Nielsen of Toledo, Stephanie Niese of Findlay, Linda Nelson of Toledo, Patricia Newman of Toledo and Linda Odiari of Toledo.

Nurse pinning recipients also include Amanda Ogle of Millbury, Adunola Ogunleye of Webster, Millicant Olang of Maumee, Latoya Pettaway of Holland, Ryan Purcell of Findlay, Danielle Pyle of Toledo, Angela Rainey of Toledo, Tasha Rensch of Findlay, Dolores Reynolds of Oakwood, Tiffany Richardson of Toledo, Katie Ritchey of Toledo, Jennifer Ricker of Kalida, Troy Riedel of Tiffin, Karen Rife of Findlay, Heather Roe of Toledo, Hiley Rollins of Toledo, Bambie Rolsten of New Riegel, Krista Rosenberger of Sylvania, Joseph Rosebrock of Findlay, Christy Roszman of Tiffin, Melissa Schade of Kansas, Mary Schira of Toledo, Ronni Schudel of Toledo, Rachel Sepesy of Ida, Mich., Nicole Sheffler of Pemberville, Tammy Shepherd of Dola, Kathleen Shull of Bradner, Dawn Siefer of Ottawa, Cynthia Siefert of Monclova, Carly Sifuentes of Toledo, Michelle Siler of Maumee, Connie Skadeland of Bowling Green, Jessica Smith of Tiffin, Michele Stallard of Findlay, Kendra Stachura of Toledo, Agustta Stevens of Whitehouse, Jody Stewart of Mount Victory, Rebecca Stone of Put-In-Bay, Janette Tamesis of Holland, Ashley Thames of Kenton, Kay Theis of Harrod, Sarah Theis of Findlay, Michelle Thrailkill of Perrysburg, Kristie Tokar of Rossford, Jennifer Vaught of Bowling Green, Karen Warren of Toledo, Helen Webb of Oregon, Mark Webner of Oregon, Desiree Weidner of Oak Harbor, Jena Williams of Willard, Pamela Williams of Findlay, Dina Wood of Findlay, Kori Wolfram of Maumee, Asia Young of Toledo, Wendell Young of Toledo, Tami Zunk of Oregon, Patricia Bak of Toledo, Kevin Cassaubon of Perrysburg, Candelaria Flores of Whitehouse, Taryn Hernandez of Toledo, Ebonee Johnson of Toledo, Stefanie Lamb of Oregon, Grace Limson of Toledo, Heidi Loman of Sylvania, Anastasia Mysinger of Perrysburg, Ashley Trouten of Sylvania, Amy Wittenmyer of Maumee and Peggy Zbinden of Grand Rapids.

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

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

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

Owens’ Community Terrace View Café Announces Summer Semester Menu, June 28 – July 21

Posted on June 20th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to experience an array of delectable meals that emphasize healthy cooking at Owens Community College as the Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts programs unveil summer menu selections in the community Terrace View Café.

The student-run Terrace View Café is open to the public during the academic year. Owens’ restaurant, which is coordinated by the Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Department, is located in College Hall Room 148 on the Toledo-area Campus. The Terrace View Café will be open to area residents for lunch select Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Seating is limited and available until 12:15 p.m. and take out meals will take place from 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. The cost per lunch is only $8.50 and reservations are required.

The menu selections were planned by culinary arts students in the techniques for healthy cooking classes led by Owens instructors Chef Bill Powell and Chef Andrea Lawrence. The classes take into account nutrition science, food preparation and menu strategies for healthy eating.

The Terrace View Café will be available to guests starting Tuesday, June 28 with a healthy cuisine that features roasted pork loin with a honey mustard pan sauce as the entrée. Upcoming Summer Semester dates and entrée listings include June 30 (sautéed turkey medallions with tomato-basil jus), July 7 (grilled jerk chicken with black bean sauce), July 12 (salmon with sparkling white wine butter sauce), July 14 (lamb shish kebobs over couscous), July 19 (tilapia) and July 21 (cod and scallops en papillote). Additionally, attendees have the opportunity to choose either a lacto-ovo vegetarian entrée or a Terrace chicken burger with the planned side dishes if desired. A complete listing of dishes is available at www.owens.edu/terrace. Bakery items also will be available for purchase during the luncheons.

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

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

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

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

OwensCommunity College Closed for Independence Holiday, July 2-4

Posted on June 20th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses , as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, will be closed Saturday-Monday, July 2-4 for the Independence Day holiday. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed.

Administrative offices will open again and classes will resume on Tuesday, July 5.

Owens Community College Express Honors Baseball, Golf and Softball Programs

Posted on June 20th, 2011

Alaina Haubert

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored its spring athletic programs for displaying excellence during intercollegiate competition. Student-athletes participating in baseball, golf and softball were recognized for their athletic achievements, highlighted by Alaina Haubert of Gibsonburg being named NJCAA Division II Third Team All-American in women’s softball.

Haubert, a sophomore third baseman from Gibsonburg High School, set an Owens softball record for doubles (22) in a season. In addition, her 51 RBIs ranked No. 38 in the country among NJCAA Division II women’s softball student-athletes. Haubert also totaled 75 hits, 53 runs, 4 triples, 7 home runs and a .481 batting average.

Her honors included selection to the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) All-Conference and NJCAA All-Region XII teams. Additionally, Haubert received Owens’ Most Valuable Player and OCCAC Player of the Year awards.

Express women’s softball completed the 2011 season with a 44-5 overall record and captured its tenth OCCAC (6-2 record) title in the program’s history. Led by Head Coach Duane Lanham, Owens was ranked No. 8 in the final NJCAA Division II women’s softball regular season poll.

The women’s softball team also advanced to its second NJCAA Division II National Championship tournament where they finished second among 16 participating intercollegiate teams. Owens lost to Louisiana State University-Eunice 10-0 in the NJCAA Division II National Championship game. The Express is the first women’s intercollegiate athletic program in school history to advance to the national championship game.

Led by Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team captured one match and invitational title during the season, highlighted by a third-place finish in the OCCAC Championship Invitational. The program also finished third in the NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional Championship after rounds of 329-309 (638) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Additionally, Owens placed eighth in the NJCAA Region XII Golf Championship.

Women’s softball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Alaina Haubert of Gibsonburg (Gibsonburg H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Matea Rice of Oregon (Clay H.S.)
Offensive Player of the Year – Kristen Roznoski of Toledo (Cardinal Stritch H.S.)
Defensive Player of the Year – Jordan Ratliff of Petersburg, Mich. (Summerfield H.S.)
Heart of a Champion Award – Lindsey Bandeen of Holland (Springfield H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Alaina Haubert
OCCAC Pitcher of the Year – Jordan Ratliff
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Alaina Haubert, Kristen Roznoski, Jordan Ratliff, Lindsey Bandeen, Matea Rice and Bridget Wolfe of Bellevue (Bellevue H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Alaina Haubert and Kristen Roznoski
NJCAA All-Region XII Coach of the Year – Duane Lanham
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Most Valuable Player – Jordan Ratliff
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – Alaina Haubert, Jordan Ratliff and Allison Hausch of Bryan (Bryan H.S.)
NJCAA Division II All-National Championship Tournament Team – Lindsey Bandeen and Matea Rice
NJCAA Division II All-American Third Team – Alaina Haubert

Members of the Express women’s softball program also were Ashleigh Whitacre of Toledo (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.), Annie DeTray of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.), Elizabeth Weber of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.), Kelley Molloy of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.), Courtney Parr of Castalia (Margaretta H.S.), Morgan Gray of Clyde (Clyde H.S.), Courtney Mowery of Genoa (Genoa H.S.), Tabitha Britt of Maumee (Maumee H.S.), Sydney Barron of Monroe, Mich. (Jefferson H.S.), Tayler Redinger of Fremont (Fremont Ross H.S.), Kristen Shock of Sylvania (Sylvania Northview H.S.), Hallie Thompson of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Ashlyn Michalak of Holland (Springfield H.S.), Kasey Graham of Oregon (Clay H.S.) and Michelle Hollister of Newport, Mich. (Airport H.S.).

Men’s baseball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Jesse Solomon of Huber Heights (Wayne H.S.)
Co-Outstanding Offensive Award – Jesse Solomon and Joe Sickler of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.)
Outstanding Pitching Award – Zak Esposito of Sandusky (Sandusky H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Jesse Solomon, Joe Sickler, Blake Schmenk of Perrysburg (Perrysburg H.S.) and Ryan Hotmer of Toledo (Lake H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Joe Sickler

Owens men’s baseball team members also were Garrett Busch of Toledo (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Austin Gunn of Delta (Delta H.S.), Matt Hayes of Pickerington (Pickerington H.S. North), Titus Pierce of Racine (Eastern H.S.), Nate Miceli of Berea (Berea H.S.), Tyler Brown-Lewis of Shaker Heights (Shaker Heights H.S.), Daniel Heatherly of Trenton, Mich. (Trenton H.S.), Danny Schira of Vevay, Ind. (Switzerland County H.S.), James Moore Jr. of Farmington Hills, Mich. (Southfield-Lathrup H.S.), Kelley Wagner of Brownstown, Ind. (Brownstown Central H.S.), Shawn Downey of Martinsville, Ind. (Martinsville H.S.), Jeff Davis of Toledo (St. Francis de Sales H.S.), Shane Powell of Gibralter, Mich. (Carlson H.S.), Travis Tackett of Vevay, Ind. (Switzerland County H.S.), Michael Louis of Parma (Normandy H.S.), Andy Joseph of Sylvania (Sylvania Southview H.S.), Jordan Basinger of Kalida (Kalida H.S.) and Andrew Poland of Toledo (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.).

Golf awards presented were:

Most Improved Player – Brooks Gardner of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.)
Co-Coaches Award – Brooks Gardner and Lee Schmidlin of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.)
Best Newcomer Award – Kyle Simmons of Millbury (Genoa H.S.)
Lowest Scoring Average Award – Kyle Anderson of Monroe, Mich. (St. Mary Catholic Central H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference Second Team – Kyle Simmons, Kyle Anderson and Brooks Gardner

Express golf team members also included Brian Brumenshenkel of Maumee (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Louis Fahrbach of Northwood (Northwood H.S.), Greg Hermes of Maumee (Maumee H.S.), Kevin Hoyle of Maumee (Anthony Wayne H.S.) and Casey Lawless of Orillia, Canada (Patrick Fogarty Secondary School).

Owens Raising Awareness Club Presents Sweet Caroline Golf Outing in Bowling Green, July 23

Posted on June 15th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to enjoy a day of golf and entertainment to benefit Camp Quality Ohio and the organization’s summer camping experience and year-round support program for children with cancer as Owens Community College’s Raising Awareness Club presents the second annual Sweet Caroline Golf Outing on Saturday, July 23.

Organized by the Raising Awareness Club, the golf outing will be held at Bowling Green State University’s Forrest Creason Golf Course in Bowling Green. The event will feature 18-holes of golf, lunch, door prizes and an awards program.

All proceeds will benefit Camp Quality Ohio, which provides a free week-long camp experience and year-round support system for children with cancer and their families. Each child is assigned a volunteer representative who provides support and encouragement during the week. The overall goal of Camp Quality Ohio is to provide children with the opportunity to experience new and exciting activities in a safe environment, as well as to make new friends and create fun memories that will sustain them as they continue their medical treatments.

“Owens Community College’s Raising Awareness Club is proud to once again host an event which raises awareness about childhood cancer,” said Nicole Lance, Owens Raising Awareness Club Advisor. “The Sweet Caroline Golf Outing allows the group to bring attention to this terrible disease, while at the same time helping Camp Quality Ohio and providing a fun day for community members.”

The four-person golf scramble competition will begin with a shotgun start at 2 p.m. Lunch will proceed the golf at 1 p.m. Owens’ event will conclude with participants recalling their golfing experience during a short awards program, which will recognize the top three groups, as well as select door prizes and silent auction winners.

Individuals, businesses and organizations are invited to support the Sweet Caroline Golf Outing by entering a team and/or becoming a sponsor. The entry fee is only $60 per player or $240 per team. Among the various sponsorship opportunities are t-shirt sponsor ($100), beverage cart sponsor ($75) hole sponsor ($50), Sweet Caroline Golf Outing presenting sponsor ($200) and prize donor (in-kind gift).

The Sweet Caroline Golf Outing is named in honor of two-year-old Caroline Johnson, who was diagnosed with a rare form of liver cancer in January 2010. Last year, Johnson received surgery to remove her tumor, leaving the young child with only 15 percent of her liver. She underwent several chemotherapy treatments and is now free of cancer.

Owens’ Raising Awareness Club was founded with the overall purpose of raising awareness about an array of issues and causes. Comprised of Owens students, employees and alumni, the group is committed to advocating for the acceptance of cultural differences, global unity, disability awareness and various needs that impact the surrounding communities.

Individuals must register by July 15 to participate in the Sweet Caroline Golf Outing. For more information, call (567) 661-2569 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2569.

Owens Express Golf to Hold Open Tryouts, June 21-24

Posted on June 15th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate golf at Owens Community College are invited to a four-day open qualifier Tuesday-Friday, June 21-24.

The first two days Tuesday-Wednesday, June 21-22 of the open tryouts will take place at Maumee Bay State Park Golf Course in Oregon. The third round of the four-day qualifier will occur on Thursday, June 23 at Stone Ridge Golf Club in Bowling Green. The final round will take place on Friday, June 24 at Heather Downs Country Club in Toledo. Open tryouts will begin each day at 8 a.m.

Led by Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team captured one match and invitational title during the season, highlighted by a third-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program also finished third in the NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional Championship after rounds of 329-309 (638) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Additionally, Owens placed eighth in the NJCAA Region XII Golf Championship.

Registration is required prior to open tryouts and the green fee for the four-day tournament is $60. For more information on the open tryouts, call (567) 661-2643 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2643.

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

Posted on June 14th, 2011

President Dr. Lary McDougle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Findlay-area Campus Presents ‘Nature Turned Inside Out’ Exhibit, June 16 – Aug. 12

Posted on June 13th, 2011

Several of Christina Dare's digital photographs inverted through the use of technology will be featured in the Library Gallery's "Nature Turned Inside Out" exhibit on the Owens Findlay-area Campus.

FINDLAY, OH – An artistic array of masterful photographs inverted through the use of technology by Lima resident Christina Dare will be showcased on the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus as the Library Gallery presents “Nature Turned Inside Out” exhibit, June 16 – Aug. 12.

Owens’ Library Gallery, which is free and open to the public, is located in the Findlay-area Campus Library on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery is pleased to showcase the work of such a talented artist as Christina Dare,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “Christina combines her talents for photography with a knack for technology to produce what she calls inverted art. Gallery visitors will certainly find her artwork to be fascinating and beautiful.”

McCain added, “Part of the fun is trying to guess the source of the inverted image. Was it a tulip or an automobile? The beauty of the image is that it is almost divorced from its original source. The photos are abstracted, yet organic.”

Dare’s interest in photography began with the gift of her first camera at the age of six. However, a new world of adventure and intrigue was realized when she acquired her first digital camera in 2002. For nearly a decade, Dare has experimented with many computer photo programs to develop her personal technique of inverted art. Dare has transformed photographs of hosta leaves, columbine blossoms and automobile headlights, along with many other items and scenes, into kaleidoscope-type images.

Her artwork has garnered regional acclaim for its unique complexity highlighted by first and second place awards with the ArtSpace/Lima Photography Club. Dare’s photos have also received Photo of the Week, Photo of the Month, People’s Choice for the Photo of the Month and Featured Photo of the Day honors on several internet photo critiquing sites.

Dare, an Adjunct Instructor in Skilled Trades at Owens, holds a bachelor’s degree in education from The Ohio State University and an associate’s degree in electrical engineering from Rhodes State College.

Admission to the Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Mondays-Thursdays from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. through July 28 and Mondays-Fridays from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. through Aug. 12. For more information, contact the Library at (567) 429-3088 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3088.

Owens Community College Unveils Northwest Ohio’s First Urban Agriculture and Sustainability Certificate Program

Posted on June 13th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents with aspirations of learning how to grow, maintain, harvest, store and distribute local produce and animal products will now have the opportunity to begin their educational journey at Owens Community College as the academic institution’s Department of Science unveils a new Urban Agriculture and Sustainability Certificate Program. Beginning Fall Semester 2011, the new academic program will be offered on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township and at The Source Learning Center in downtown Toledo.

“Owens Community College is excited to expand our academic curriculum specific to the urban agricultural concentration area and offer this region’s first Urban Agriculture and Sustainability Certificate Program,” said Matthew Ross, Owens Faculty Member of Urban Agriculture. “The popularity of community gardening, especially within urban areas, has grown immensely within the last few years as result of increased awareness of our food systems and the desire of local residents to grow their own produce for economic and health reasons. The new Urban Agriculture and Sustainability Certificate Program will provide a higher educational opportunity for individuals to follow their passion and career aspirations within this growing field.”

Owens’ Urban Agriculture and Sustainability Certificate Program will require 26 credit hours of coursework, which includes plant science, soil science, greenhouse management, urban livestock and animal husbandry, organic gardening and food systems management, harvest and post-harvest technology, and urban horticulture and sustainability, among other academic curriculum.

The new program is designed to prepare students for various employment opportunities within the agricultural industry. Students will develop strong knowledge and an array of proficiencies ranging from community gardening activities to raising livestock in an urban environment. Upon program completion, individuals will be able to apply their knowledge and skills specific to assisting with the development of community garden initiatives, agricultural entrepreneurship and community supported agriculture.

Students will also have the opportunity to participate in various experiential learning laboratory projects at Toledo GROWs’ Oneida Greenhouse in Toledo.

In addition to the new Urban Agriculture and Sustainability Certificate Program, the Department of Science offers academic programs in Landscape and Turfgrass Management and Golf Course/Athletic Field Management.

For additional information about Owens’ new Urban Agriculture and Sustainability Certificate Program, call (567) 661-7623 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7623.

Owens Community College to Host American Harp Society Day Ensemble Concert, June 23

Posted on June 8th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents with a passion and enjoyment of music are invited to attend a unique ensemble performance featuring 12 harpists as Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts serves as host to the fourteenth annual American Harp Society Day Ensemble Concert on Thursday, June 23.

Presented the Northwest Ohio Chapter of the American Harp Society, the concert will begin at 7 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The performance is free and open to the public.

“The Northwest Ohio Chapter of the American Harp Society is very excited to collaborate with Owens Community College and present a fun and dazzling performance for the surrounding communities,” said Denise Grupp-Verbon, Owens Adjunct Instructor of Fine and Performing Arts and Co-Founder of Harp Week. “This year’s concert will feature 12 harpists of various ages and diverse backgrounds. Attendees will not be disappointed with the musical variety and stylistic flourishes of this year’s presentation.”

The concert is the culmination of Harp Week, which is four days (June 20-23) of ensemble rehearsals and practical application workshops sponsored in part by the Northwest Ohio Chapter of the American Harp Society and the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts. Harp Week is open to any harpist who has played for at least one year.

Harpists ranging from beginners to professionals will be strumming both familiar and original tunes throughout the evening concert.

The American Harp Society was founded in 1962 in response to the growing needs of harpists as performers, teachers and students. Its mission is to encourage and cultivate the enjoyment of the harp as a musical instrument, to support the composition of the music and to advance the quality of ability for performing harpists. The society has flourished since its founding and now consists of more than 3,000 members with chapters throughout the world.

The Northwest Ohio Chapter was established in the mid 1970s with the mission of preserving, promoting and presenting the harp and its music in the community. The chapter’s initiatives include promoting the study of the harp by providing scholarship opportunities and instruments and serving as a co-sponsor of Harp Week since its inception in 1998.

Individuals participating in Harp Week and the concert are Alicia Allen of Toledo, Caili Bonar of Whitehouse, Emily Cihon of Maumee, Elise Clines of Maumee, Gabriella Crisp of Metamora, Hannah Ludwig of Maumee, Deborah Roberts of Maumee, Moriah Umbs of Findlay, Jennifer Meehan of Toledo, Grace Wipfli of Toledo, Denise Grupp-Verbon of Toledo (Co-Founder and Co-Director) and Nancy Lendrim of Sylvania (Co-Founder and Co-Director).

For more information about the concert, contact the Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2787.

Owens Community College Announces New Interior Design Degree Program

Posted on June 8th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is enhancing its educational opportunities within the School of Arts and Sciences by announcing the creation of a new Interior Design Associate Degree Program. Beginning Fall Semester 2011, the new academic program will be offered on the Toledo-area Campus.

The two-year associate degree program recently received formal approval by the Ohio Board of Regents.

“Owens Community College is extremely excited to expand our fine and performing arts educational opportunities and offer a new Interior Design Degree Program to students and the surrounding communities,” said Dr. Doug Mead, Owens Chair of Fine and Performing Arts. “The Department of Fine and Performing Arts’ Interior Design Certificate Program, which was established several years ago, has grown in enrollment and popularity among students during the past several years. The creation of the new Interior Design Degree Program will open new doors for students and help support the continued growth and development of the field of interior design.”

Owens’ associate degree in interior design will require approximately 65 credit hours of coursework, which includes introduction to interior design, fundamentals of drawing floor plans, history of interior design, fundamentals of lighting for interiors, textiles, furniture, fixtures and equipment, environmentally responsible design and CAD for interiors basics, among other academic curriculum.

The new program is designed to prepare students for employment in the field of interior design. Students will develop strong knowledge in residential and contract design, as well as learn about technical drawing, rendering and CAD design, color theory and furnishings. Additionally, Owens students will have the opportunity to utilize state-of-the-art finishing rooms, computer laboratories complete with innovative CAD software and a natural lighting studio space.

Upon program completion, individuals will be able to apply their knowledge and skills to work in entry-level or higher employment positions specific to drafting, interior design and interior construction management, among other opportunities.

In addition to the new Interior Design Associate Degree Program, the Department of Fine and Performing Arts offers an Interior Design Certificate Program.

For additional information about Owens’ new Interior Design Associate Degree Program, call (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext 7081.

Owens Community College to Host Community Blood Drive, June 22

Posted on June 7th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents can help in saving the lives of their neighbors as Owens Community College and the American Red Cross host a community Blood Drive on Wednesday, June 22.

The Blood Drive will occur from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

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

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

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

Owens Community College to Host New Drawing from Nature Youth Camp, June 20 – July 18

Posted on June 7th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area youth ages 7 through 14 will have the opportunity to combine their interests of drawing and nature in a hands-on creative learning environment as Owens Community College serves as host to its first-ever Drawing from Nature Youth Camp, June 20 – July 18.

The Drawing from Nature Youth Camp will be offered through Owens’ Workforce and Community Services, which is located at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee. The four-week camp will take place Mondays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. for ages 7 through 10 and from 1-4 p.m. for ages 11 through 14. No classes will occur on Monday, July 4.

“Owens’ Workforce and Community Services is excited to expand its continuing education programming and offer a hands-on camp, which combines art and nature,” saidRhonda Hogrefe, Owens Continuing Education and Community Service Account Representative.“The new Drawing from Nature Youth Camp allows attendees to express themselves artistically and explore our natural surroundings within a unique experiential learning environment.”

Camp attendees will have the chance to receive hands-on learning specific to creative and traditional drawing techniques, which will be used to fill sketchbooks with studies from natural surroundings. Traditional art tools such as pencils, charcoal, ink and crayons will be used during the camp along with “found tools”, which will include sticks, reeds and grasses to create drawings of natural design.

Every week will consist of a different activity using various compositions and media to create a piece of artwork for the camp participants. Among the creative and traditional drawing techniques which will be incorporated into the camp curriculum are stippling, cross-hatching, shading, ink drawing, brush and ink wash, and watercolor. Sketchbooks will be displayed at the camp’s conclusion.

The new Drawing from Nature Youth Camp will be taught by Owens Adjunct Instructor of Fine and Performing Arts Gary Wittenmyer. Wittenmyer has garnered regional and national acclaim for his artistic expressions in gallery and art exhibitions in Ohio, Indiana and Minnesota. His work currently appears at the Toledo Museum of Art in the Collector’s Corner location.

Registration for the camp is $125. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Express Women’s Volleyball Announces Signing of Six Student-Athletes to Scholarships

Posted on June 6th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Six first-year student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play NJCAA intercollegiate women’s volleyball for the Owens Community College Express during the upcoming 2011-12 academic year.

The Owens women’s volleyball program is led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis and competes at the NJCAA Division II level. Participating in intercollegiate athletics at the NJCAA Division II level allows the College to offer scholarships to pay for tuition for its student-athletes.

The Express women’s volleyball program ended their 2010 season with a 42-9 overall record and finished 11-1 (first place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Owens has now won 10 out of the last 11 OCCAC regular season championships. The team also was ranked No. 11 in the final NJCAA Division II volleyball regular season poll.

“The Express volleyball program is proud to welcome the incoming freshmen class to Owens Community College,” said Lewis. “These six individuals are leaders both on the volleyball court and in the classroom and have garnered many accolades at their respective schools. They will certainly provide a strong nucleus of talent at each skill position, which improves our chances of making a run at another conference championship.”

First-year student-athletes receiving women’s volleyball scholarships are Bethany Critchley of Toledo, middle hitter (Toledo Christian Schools); Emily Crowell of Rockford, middle hitter (Parkway H.S.); Molly Hilfinger of Whitehouse, setter (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Whitney Hoodlebrink of Pemberville, outside hitter (Eastwood H.S.); Alyssa Meis of Curtice, outside hitter (Genoa H.S.), and Brandi Schimming of Martin, defensive specialist (Genoa H.S.).

Owens Community College to Host Express Volleyball Camp, July 18-20

Posted on June 6th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area volleyball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as the women’s volleyball program hosts a three-day Express Volleyball Camp, Monday-Wednesday, July 18-20.

The volleyball camp will offer two separate sessions daily from 1-4:30 p.m. for grades 8-12 and from 5:30-8 p.m. for grades 4-7 in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include the Owens Express women’s volleyball coaching staff, area coaches, and current and former collegiate players. Each camp participant will receive individual instruction on volleyball skills in their designated area, including outsider hitter, middle blocker, setter and defensive specialist. In addition, attendees will learn about drills and exercises for volleyball and gain tips on improving their passing efficiency.

The Express women’s volleyball program ended their 2010 season with a 42-9 overall record and finished 11-1 (first place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Owens has now won 10 out of the last 11 OCCAC regular season championships. Head Coach Sonny Lewis’ squad also was ranked No. 11 in the final NJCAA Division II volleyball regular season poll.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

The camp fee is $80 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7939 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7939.

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

Posted on June 2nd, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

Over 200 Denim Items Given New Life Through Owens and Local Child’s National Collection Drive Initiative

Posted on June 1st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Environmental Club is raising environmental awareness by bringing new life to worm-out jeans, jackets and purses previously destined for overcrowded landfills. As a result of the student group’s recent collection drive efforts, over 200 denim items will soon find their way to “COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN. ®” and given “new life” as part of the environmental program’s UltraTouch National Cotton Fiber Insulation.

The Environmental Club recently presented the denim materials to Jerusalem Elementary fifth grader Erek Hansen of Curtice to assist in his personal goal of collecting over 5,000 items for the “COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN. ®” program. Last year, the ten-year-old collected 4,154 denim items.

“It is important that we find ways to help in preserving our planet,” said Brad Fields of Toledo, Owens student and Environmental Club President. “The good news is that these denim items will not end up in a landfill. It also helps with sustainability because the donated denim will be used for home insulation.”

“Thank you to Owens Community College for donating your jeans to help our planet,” said Hansen. “It only takes one person to make a difference.”

Owens’ recent denim collection drive initiative is part of a nationwide effort with the “COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN. ®” environmental program. Founded in 2006, the denim program gives “new life” to used items by converting them to UltraTouch National Cotton Fiber Insulation. The insulation is then provided to communities in need to assist with building efforts. UltraTouch is composed of 85 percent recycled cotton fibers and is an environmentally safe, non-itch insulation without carcinogenic warnings, formaldehyde or chemical irritants.

Since the start of the “COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN. ®” denim drive in 2006, the program has received a total of 270,000 pieces of denim and provided enough UltraTouch National Cotton Fiber Insulation for 540 houses in areas of the country affected by natural disasters, and more notably, preventing 200 tons of denim from being sent to landfills.

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Internationally Known Wedding Photographers to Present Wedding Photography Workshop at Owens, June 8

Posted on May 31st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents and photographers interested in learning about technical aspects of producing exceptional wedding photography with available lighting are invited to participate in a hands-on workshop featuring internationally recognized wedding photographers Michael and Pam Ayers at Owens Community College on Wednesday, June 8.

Presented by the Professional Photographers of Northwest Ohio and the Owens Photo Club student organization, the workshop is titled “Fast and Spectacular Bridal Portraits with Available Light” and will take place from 6:30-9:30 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre and Rotunda on the Toledo-area Campus. The event is open to the public and attendees should bring their own cameras and appropriate lenses for the event.

“Owens Community College is honored to once again collaborate with the Professional Photographers of Northwest Ohio and present a hands-on workshop for photographers of all skill levels,” said Margaret Lockwood-Lass, Owens Adjunct Instructor of Fine and Performing Arts and Co-Advisor of the Owens Photo Club. “Both Michael and Pam Ayers are leaders within wedding photography and have garnered several international and national awards for their exceptional work. Workshop attendees will certainly not be disappointed with the knowledge and insight they will receive from arguably some of the finest professional photographers.”

“We are very fortunate to have Michael and Pam Ayers sharing their time and masterful talents specific to wedding photography,” said Fred Eldridge, President of Professional Photographers of Northwest Ohio and Owner of Eldridge Images. “Their insight during the workshop will certainly help photographers take their wedding photography skills to a higher level.”

Attendees will receive both classroom and experiential learning during the workshop, highlighted by photographing three model brides courtesy of Atlas Bridal Shop on Monroe Street in Toledo. The models will be posing in three different lighting situations as part of the workshop, enabling participants to receive insight from Michael and Pam Ayers on how to produce exceptional bridal portraits.

Additionally, each participating photographer will be asked to provide the Professional Photographers of Northwest Ohio with three images of their best work from the event. All submitted images will be juried, with the top three photos to be displayed at Atlas Bridal Shop.

Professional Photographers of Northwest Ohio serves as the regional chapter of professional photographers from Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan and is affiliated with the Professional Photographers of Ohio and Professional Photographers of America.

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

Attendees are encouraged to register for the workshop prior to the date of the event. The cost of the workshop is $20. For additional information, call (419) 385-8083 or (419) 227-1801. Individuals can also access information online at www.owensphotoclub.org and www.ppno.org, or register at owensphotoclub@gmail.com or ppno.photographers@gmail.com.

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

Posted on May 31st, 2011

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

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

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

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

Selection criterion for acceptance into the honor society is based upon students achieving a 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average for two consecutive full-time semesters or three-four part-time semesters. In addition, individuals must have taken at least one developmental education course at Owens. The College’s chapter was founded in April 2006. The Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society student inductees for the 2011 Spring Semester are:

Julie Barraclough of Oregon (office support)

Kevin Bernheisel of Toledo (biology)

Richard Bethel of Toledo (business management)

Renee Bidlack of Walbridge (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Brian Bowers of Holland (pre-nursing)

Joshua Breitigam of Findlay (business management)

Toni Breneman of Findlay (accounting)

Lori Burkett of Findlay (pre-nursing)

Phillip Carlen of Findlay (pre-business administration)

Paula Cartlidge of Toledo (accounting)

Stephanie Cary of Lima (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Angela Cochran of Delta (basic peace officer academy)

Kelsie Colburn of Findlay (criminal justice technology)

Octavia Dabney of Toledo (culinary arts)

Delaine Depp of Fostoria (financial services sales)

Katie Duval of Genoa (social work)

Eric Eagleston of Toledo (pre-business administration)

Adam Ferrell of Bryan (networking and information systems support)

Christina Flathers of Maumee (surgical)

Jill Gorham of Toledo (pre-radiography)

Jonathan Hall of Toledo (manufacturing technology)

Marcia Hall of Toledo (pre-surgical)

Sheryl Hudson of Toledo (pre-nursing)

Jason Kearns of Forest (criminal justice technology)

Joshua Kensler of Toledo (medical office support)

Philip Kern of Maumee (early childhood education)

Jordan Kuyoth of Sylvania (CAD technology)

Ashley LaHote of Sylvania (pre-radiography)

Michelle Leonard of Toledo (pre-surgical)

Cheryl Lewis of Toledo (accounting)

Justin Liptack of Millbury (social work)

Myiisha Lott of Toledo (registered nursing)

Tiffany Lowery of Wharton (medical office support)

Amber McCormick of Toledo (registered nursing)

Angel Murphy of Toledo (business management)

Sally Osborn of Holland (multi-age education)

Casey Ostwinch of Findlay (landscape and turfgrass management)

Tom Otieno of Toledo (pre-physical therapist assistant)

Karen Patton of Findlay (pre-medical assistant)

Eileen Pfaffenberger of Metamora (office coordination)

Kristen Ratajczak of Maumee (massage therapy)

Cheryl Roth of Toledo (medical office support)

Nancy Smeeton-Gaietto of Bloomville (real estate)

Michael Sperry of Toledo (criminal justice technology)

Melissa Trombly of Perrysburg (radiography)

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

Posted on May 24th, 2011

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

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

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

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

Owens Environmental Club Donates Over 250 Denim Items to Local Child’s National Collection Drive Initiative, May 26

Posted on May 24th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Environmental Club is raising environmental awareness by bringing new life to worm-out jeans, jackets and purses previously destined for overcrowded landfills. As a result of the student group’s recent collection drive efforts, over 250 denim items will soon find their way to “COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN.®” and given “new life” as part of the environmental program’s UltraTouch National Cotton Fiber Insulation.

Beginning at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 26, the Environmental Club will be presenting the denim materials to Jerusalem Elementary fifth grader Erek Hansen to assist in his personal goal of collecting over 5,000 items for the “COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN.®” program. Last year, the ten-year-old collected 4,154 denim items. The presentation will take place in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda on the Toledo-area Campus.

Owens’ recent denim collection drive initiative is part of a nationwide effort with the “COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN.®” environmental program. Founded in 2006, the denim program gives “new life” to used items by converting them to UltraTouch National Cotton Fiber Insulation. The insulation is then provided to communities in need to assist with building efforts. UltraTouch is composed of 85 percent recycled cotton fibers and is an environmentally safe, non-itch insulation without carcinogenic warnings, formaldehyde or chemical irritants.

Since the start of the “COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN.®” denim drive in 2006, the program has received a total of 270,000 pieces of denim and provided enough UltraTouch National Cotton Fiber Insulation for 540 houses in areas of the country affected by natural disasters, and more notably, preventing 200 tons of denim from being sent to landfills.

Owens Community College Recognizes Students for Creative Excellence in Artistic Expression

Posted on May 23rd, 2011

Owens student Joshua Smith's ceramic piece titled "Richard the XII" was among 97 artistic expressions on display as part of the College's annual Juried Student Art Exhibit in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Nine Owens Community College students were recently honored for their creative excellence in art as the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery held its annual Juried Student Art Exhibition.

“Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts is proud to have featured some of the finest works of art produced by our students,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Part-time Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “The creative works submitted by Owens students were truly outstanding and epitomized the meaning of artistic expression. Events such as the Juried Student Art Exhibition provide great opportunities for students to apply the knowledge obtained within the classroom into a real world setting.”

A jury composed of area artists and professionals selected the winning entries based on creative excellence. The Juried Student Art Exhibition was open to all students enrolled within Fine and Performing Arts courses.

The show featured 97 pieces of artwork in the categories of fine art, photography and commercial art. Fifty-seven students enrolled within Fine and Performing Arts courses at Owens had artwork accepted for the show.

In the category of fine art, Brandon Freeman of Toledo was awarded first place for his oil painting on canvas titled “Red Girl”. Jim Lohman of Toledo received second place for his graphite art titled “Value of a Portrait” and Deb Helwig of Delta took third place for her calligraphy titled “Dark Man”.

Laura Traxler of Toledo was awarded first place in the category of photography for her photo alternative process art titled “Abandon”, while Amy Everett of Millbury took second place for her digital photograph “Gabe One”. Tabitha Adams of Bowling Green garnered third place for her digital mixed media artwork titled “Suit Case”.

In the category of commercial art, Matt Johnson of Holland was awarded first place for his CD and vector design titled “Radiohead”. Nathan Daulbaugh of Toledo took second place for his movie poster raster design “Into the Night” and Eunyoung Oh of Perrysburg received third place honors for his DVD and vector design “The Devil Wears Prada”.

Owens Community College to Host New CSI Youth Camp, June 6-8

Posted on May 23rd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area youth ages 13 through 17 will have the opportunity to become a detective for several days and learn how the world of forensic science is used in solving a crime as Owens Community College serves as host to its first-ever CSI Youth Camp, June 6-8.

The CSI Youth Camp will be offered through Owens’ Workforce and Community Services at the College’s Center for Emergency Preparedness. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The camp will take place Monday-Wednesday from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

“Owens Community College is proud to offer a new educational camp in which students will learn how to solve a crime using actual forensic skills,” said Michael Cornell, Owens Director of the Center for Emergency Preparedness. “Attendees will not know if they solved the crime until the last day of camp when the SWAT team raids a building and captures the villain, which will make for an exciting end to the CSI Youth Camp experience.”

Working with a forensic team, each student detective will have the opportunity to enter a re-creation of an unusual and challenging crime scene where an instructor will direct and coach the students as they use deductive skills, teamwork, math and science to solve the crime. Each camp attendee will be trained in the basic process of evidence collection that includes fingerprints, fibers and hair, blood spatter (simulated), DNA, and tire and shoe prints.

Additionally, student detectives will learn how to protect the chain of evidence as they interview witnesses and develop theories while working as a team to solve the crime. During the last day of camp, each attendee will make a presentation detailing their theories of the crime and identifying the perpetrators of the criminal activity. Each team presentation will be critiqued by a panel of law enforcement officers and forensic scientists.

The Center for Emergency Preparedness is the premier all-hazards national training facility located at Owens Community College. As the world continues to change so will the critical training demands for the men and women who place themselves in harm’s way. The Center for Emergency Preparedness is dedicated to securing the homeland and assuring the safety of our citizens by building a well-trained community of first responders, first receivers and allied professionals who are ready to safely respond to and mitigate the effects of an all-hazards event.

For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357, or (567) 661-2411 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2411.

Owens Women’s Basketball Student-Athletes to Continue Careers at Four-Year Academic Institutions

Posted on May 19th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball student-athletes Karrah Windau of Carey, Saige Meyer of Deshler and Jasmine Blanton of Toledo have signed national letters of intent to continue their intercollegiate careers at four-year academic institutions. Windau and Meyer will attend the University of Northwestern Ohio, while Blanton will attend West Virginia State University.

“I am really proud of Karrah, Saige and Jasmine and excited that they will have an opportunity to continue their college education and athletic careers at the University of Northwestern Ohio and West Virginia State University,” said Owens Women’s Basketball Head Coach Michael Llanas. “The three of them were leaders on and off the basketball court and will certainly succeed at their respective four-year schools.”

Last season at Owens, Windau averaged 7.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.6 steals per game for the Express. This past year, the sophomore forward earned Honorable Mention OCCAC All-Conference honors and was the recipient of the team’s co-Most Improved Player award. Windau is a graduate of Carey High School and scored 342 points during her career at Owens.

Meyer averaged 5.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.5 steals per game for the Express during the 2010-11 season. The sophomore guard received the team’s co-Most Improved Player award. The Patrick Henry High School graduate totaled 233 points for the Express during her career.

During the 2010-11 season, Blanton averaged 13.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.6 steals per game. Her postseason honors included being named First Team OCCAC All-Conference and OCCAC Player of the Year. The sophomore guard also earned team Most Valuable Player honors and was selected to the NJCAA All-Region XII Team and NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team. Blanton, a graduate of Notre Dame Academy, scored 951 points for her Express career, which ranks second in the women’s basketball program history.

Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, the Express women’s basketball team finished the 2010-11 campaign with a 27-5 overall record and captured its first Ohio Community College Athletic Conference title (11-1 record) since the 2006-07 campaign. Owens, which was ranked No. 11 in the final NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball poll, lost to Cincinnati State Technical and Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The University of Northwestern Ohio Racers finished their 2010-11 season with a 15-16 overall record, while West Virginia State University Yellow Jackets completed their 2010-11 campaign with an overall record of 11-18.

Local Residents Achieve Goals and Dreams During GED Graduation Ceremony at Owens

Posted on May 19th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 40 area residents recently were honored for achieving academic excellence as Owens Community College served as host to its second annual GED Graduation Ceremony.

Graduates received their Ohio High School Equivalence Diploma, also known as the General Educational Development (GED) Diploma, as part of the graduation ceremony. Tracy Harmon and Rebekah Hurst were selected as the student class representatives and addressed the graduates as keynote speakers during the event.

For 25-year-old Rebekah Hurst, the educational journey would not have begun without the encouraging words of her parents Jim and Christine Lemke, who are both pursuing their own educational career goals as students at Owens. Jim is enrolled in the College’s alternative energy and sustainable systems technology program, while Christine is majoring business management.

“My mom and dad wanted me to go back to school,” said the Toledo resident. “I dropped out of high school at age 16 because of personal problems. Receiving my GED diploma means the world to me. This is the greatest day of my life.”

Hurst is already onto the next stage of her life and her goal of becoming a dental hygienist. The Toledo resident recently joined her parents as an Owens student and completed her first semester as a dental hygiene major. Hard work in the college classroom has already paid off for Hurst as she holds a 3.3 grade point average.

Toledo resident Tiffany Young always knew that there was more to life and thought education was the key to unlocking new career possibilities.

“I didn’t have a reason not to earn my GED diploma,” explained the 28-year-old wife and mother of three children. “Obtaining my GED diploma is the first phase of my new life and it would not have been possible without the help and support of my husband Nathan (Young) and my family.”

The educational journey is just beginning for Young as she begins life as a college student this summer at Owens. After completing her associate’s degree from Owens, Young plans on transferring to the University of Findlay and majoring in pre-veterinary medicine. Her eventual goal is to become a veterinarian.

Students receiving their GED Diploma as part of the graduation celebration were April Anderson of Toledo, Celina Autman of Toledo, James Beecham of Toledo, Jon Born of Oregon, Stanley Byard of Toledo, Chris Cannon of Findlay, Teresa Clark of Oregon, Nancy Coffman of Holland, Jessica Cordrey of Toledo, Kristina Driver of Findlay, Arlana Flack of Toledo, Renate Fonseca of Toledo, Tiffiny Golas of Toledo, Sarah Gurzynski of Toledo, Tracy Harmon of Toledo, Conception Hill of Toledo, Rebekah Hurst of Toledo, Alethia Johnson of Toledo, Nina Jones of Toledo, Laura Lawson of Toledo, Lowanda Lewis of Toledo, Jasmine McCourt of Toledo, Kristal Melcer of Toledo, Christopher Meyers of Toledo, Nichelle Mitchell of Toledo, Misty Pacey of Toledo, Marissa Saba of Toledo, Nichole Sanchez of Findlay, Sara Sattler of Toledo, Suzette Simon of Toledo, Dewey Simpson Jr. of Toledo, Cassie Smith of Toledo, Brittany Voltz of Toledo, Stephanie Williams of Toledo, Tiffany Young of Toledo and Cheryl Hull of Toledo.

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. In order to earn an Ohio GED Diploma, students must earn a minimum total score of 2250 points within five subject areas that include language arts-writing, language arts-reading, science, social studies and mathematics on their official examination.

Owens’ ABLE, which is funded by the state of Ohio through the Ohio Board of Regents and the U.S. Department of Education, is committed to meeting the needs of the surrounding communities by providing an array of enriched learning opportunities and academic resources that include reading, writing, mathematics and computer skills. Specific programs available include preparing for post-secondary training and education, obtaining a GED Diploma, improving employability skills and learning English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), among other academic resources.

The College offers ABLE at multiple locations in Northwest Ohio, including the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township, the Findlay-area Campus in Findlay, the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee, the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, Washington Local Schools in Toledo and at several Toledo-Lucas County Public Library locations.

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Owens Community College to Host Express Girls ‘Summer Slam’ Basketball Camp, June 13-16

Posted on May 19th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area basketball players ages 8 through 15 the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as the women’s basketball program hosts an Express Girls “Summer Slam” Individual Basketball Camp, June 13-16.

The basketball camp will occur each day from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include the Owens Express women’s basketball coaching staff and current players. Each camp participant will receive individual instruction on basketball skills in their designated positions. In addition, attendees will learn about drills and exercises for basketball and gain tips on improving their offensive and defensive skills.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

The camp fee is $75 per player, which includes a camp gift and awards. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7941 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7941.

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

Posted on May 18th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Closed Memorial Day Weekend, May 28-30

Posted on May 18th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, as well as the Arrowhead Park Learning Center in Maumee and the Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo, will be closed Saturday-Monday, May 28-30 for the Memorial Day holiday. There will be no classes and the College offices will be closed for business.

Classes will resume and administrative offices will open again on Tuesday, May 31.

Owens Community College Express Softball Program Advances to NJCAA National Championship Tournament, May 19-21

Posted on May 17th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s softball program is one step away from being crowned national champions after winning its respective regional (District G) tournament. As a result of their postseason success, the Express women’s softball team will now advance to the NJCAA Division II National Championships, Thursday-Saturday, May 19-21. The tournament will take place in Normal, Ill.

This marks Owens’ second trip to the NJCAA Division II national championship tournament. The Express’ other national championship appearance occurred in 2005.

“I am extremely proud of our Owens Express softball team,” said Owens Express Head Coach Duane Lanham. “We have worked really hard to get to this point in the season. However, this team is not satisfied with advancing to the national championship tournament. We have as good a chance any other team to win the title.”

The Express earned their trip to the nationals by winning the NJCAA Region XII Championship in Battle Creek, Mich. Owens defeated Kalamazoo Valley Community College 5-2 in the championship game to advance to the national tournament.

The softball program’s overall record now stands at 39-3. Earlier this year, Owens won its tenth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference title (6-2 record) in the program’s history. The conference championship is the sixth in the last seven years. Owens is currently ranked No. 8 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Softball poll.

Owens’ will play Mineral Area College in their first game of the double elimination national tournament at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 19. If they would advance, the Express will play the winner of the Heartland Community College/Delaware Technical and Community College at 4 p.m. on Thursday. The championship game will occur at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 21.

The 16 teams competing in the national tournament include Louisiana State University-Eunice (51-10), Kankakee Community College (45-9), Kirkwood Community College (52-9), Owens Community College (39-3), Heartland Community College (37-19), Labette Community College (43-14), East Central College (34-13), South Mountain Community College (40-26), Sauk Valley Community College (34-10), Mercyhurst North East (27-16), Pasco Hernando Community College (31-18), Delaware Technical and Community College (36-6), Mineral Area College (36-16), Highland Community College (38-11), Oakland Community College (28-20) and Cecil College (33-12).

Express softball sophomore team members are Ashleigh Whitacre of Toledo, outfield (42 hits, 11 doubles, 36 RBIs, 32 runs and .408 batting average) (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.); Annie DeTray of Oak Harbor, infield (2 runs, 3 stolen bases and .143 batting average (Oak Harbor H.S.); Lindsey Bandeen of Holland, infield (51 hits, 11 doubles, 6 triples, 4 homeruns, 41 RBIs, 34 runs and .395 batting average) (Springfield H.S.); Elizabeth Weber of Oak Harbor, pitcher (4-0 record and 1.78 earned run average) (Oak Harbor H.S.); Matea Rice of Oregon, infield (28 hits, 11 RBIs and .341 batting average) (Clay H.S.); Kelley Molloy of Toledo, outfield (21 hits, 26 runs and .323 batting average) (Whitmer H.S.); Bridget Wolfe of Bellevue, catcher (48 hits, 4 homeruns, 27 RBIs, 27 runs and .381 batting average) (Bellevue H.S.); Courtney Parr of Castalia, pitcher (2-0 record and 3.06 earned run average) (Margaretta H.S.); Morgan Gray of Clyde, outfield (14 runs, 5 stolen bases and .250 batting average (Clyde H.S.), and Courtney Mowery of Genoa, outfield (15 hits, 6 RBIs, 8 runs and .405 batting average) (Genoa H.S.).

First-year players to the Express women’s softball program are Tabitha Britt of Maumee, outfield (2 runs and .250 batting average) (Maumee H.S.); Sydney Barron of Monroe, Mich., infield (10 hits, 5 stolen bases, 15 runs and .370 batting average) (Jefferson H.S.); Tayler Redinger of Fremont, infield (18 hits, 10 RBIs, 11 runs and .383 batting average) (Fremont Ross H.S.); Kristen Shock of Sylvania, catcher (1 RBI and .333 batting average) (Sylvania Northview H.S.); Allison Hausch of Bryan, catcher (27 hits, 21 RBIs, 14 runs and .482 batting average) (Bryan H.S.); Hallie Thompson of Oregon, infield (6 hits, 6 RBIs, 10 runs and .353 batting average) (Clay H.S.), and Ashlyn Michalak of Holland, pitcher (10-1 record and 1.86 earned run average) (Springfield H.S.).

Express first-year players also include Kristen Roznoski of Toledo, outfield (71 hits, 4 triples, 19 RBIs, 40 stolen bases, 60 runs and .514 batting average) (Cardinal Stritch H.S.); Jordan Ratliff of Petersburg, Mich., pitcher (18-2 record and 1.62 earned run average) (Summerfield H.S.); Kasey Graham of Oregon, pitcher (5-0 record and 1.68 earned run average) (Clay H.S.); Michelle Hollister of Newport, Mich., infield (35 hits, 13 doubles, 32 RBIs, 23 runs and .398 batting average) (Airport H.S.), and Alaina Haubert of Gibsonburg, infield (66 hits, 21 doubles, 4 triples, 7 homeruns, 50 RBIs, 47 runs, 13 stolen bases and .504 earned run average) (Gibsonburg H.S.).

Owens Community College to Host Heroes Youth Camp, June 13-15 and July 11-13

Posted on May 16th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area youth ages 8 through 17 will have the opportunity to place themselves in shoes of first responders and explore the areas of emergency medical service, law enforcement and fire service as Owens Community College hosts Heroes Youth Camp, June 13-15 and July 11-13.

The Heroes Youth Camp will be offered through Owens’ Workforce and Community Services at the College’s Center for Emergency Preparedness. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is excited to once again provide a continuing education program that brings emergency medical service, law enforcement and fire service alive through fun, hands-on learning activities that are in a controlled, safe environment,” said Michael Cornell, Owens Director of the Center for Emergency Preparedness. “Attendees will have the opportunity of a lifetime to experience the first responders’ profession and how these individuals go about saving and protecting people’s lives on a daily basis.”

The College will offer two separate age-appropriate class sections as part of the new continuing education programming in June and July. The first class section will explore basic first aid/CPR, introduce attendees to an air ambulance and discuss prevention of head injury and helmet safety. Campus instruction will also include K-9 demonstrations, firearm safety and crime prevention, as well as evacuation steps to take in a house fire emergency. Additionally, camp participants will be introduced to police cars, fire trucks and hose lines. The first class is for ages 8 through 12 and will occur June 13-15 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. A second class for the same age group will take place July 11-13 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

The second class section is for ages 13 through 17 and will occur June 13-15 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. A second class for ages 13 through 17 will take place July 11-13 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The second class section will feature similar topics and activities as the younger age group as well as target practice using non-firearm air soft trainers. In addition, attendees will experience a mock bank robbery where they will ride along with a SWAT team, attack a structure fire inside the College’s virtual fire training system, repel off an indoor training tower and use the Jaws of Life to rescue a simulated victim trapped inside a vehicle.

All Heroes Youth Camp Program staff are state-certified Emergency Service Instructors who are active in the emergency services fields. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357, or (567) 661-2411 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2411.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Awards 2011 Academic Excellence Scholarships

Posted on May 16th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area high school seniors recently were honored by Owens Community College’s Board of Trustees for their outstanding achievements, receiving thousands of dollars in new scholarships through the Trustees’ Academic Excellence Scholarship Program.

“Owens Community College is pleased to honor and recognize these incoming students for their academic efforts and exemplary contributions within their high schools and communities,” said Dee Talmage, Owens Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Each recipient exhibits outstanding leadership qualities and will certainly excel as they begin pursuit of their academic and careers goals. The Board of Trustees is honored to welcome them to Owens Community College.”

The Academic Excellence Scholarship Program was created in 1998 by Owens’ Board of Trustees to recognize the outstanding achievements of graduating high school seniors. Each recipient will receive a $2,000 two-year scholarship.

The scholarship is available for four consecutive semesters with applicants being enrolled full-time and pursuing an associate’s degree at the College, as well as maintaining a 3.0 grade point average each semester. Since its creation more than a decade ago, the Trustees’ Academic Excellence Scholarship Program has provided over $1.3 million in scholarships to 685 students.

Students receiving a Trustees’ Academic Excellence Scholarship and their intended course of study at Owens include:

•    Marissa Schnapp of Waterville, an Anthony Wayne High School graduate (early childhood education)
•    Kane Holman of Arcadia, an Arcadia High School graduate (business management)
•    Mackenzie Heacock of Forest, an Arlington High School graduate (radiography)
•    Hanna Haynes of Bellevue, a Bellevue High School graduate (diagnostic medial sonography)
•    Kurt Fairchild of Bowling Green, a Bowling Green High School graduate (adolescence education)
•    Kaitlin Spiess of Bryan, a Bryan High School graduate (physical therapist assistant)
•    Alyssa Wlodarz of Oregon, a Cardinal Stritch High School graduate (nuclear medicine)
•    Alexandra Zunk of Oregon, a Clay High School graduate (dental hygiene)
•    Brice Bassett of Bradner, an Eastwood High School graduate (CAD technology)
•    Andrew Davis of Wayne, an Elmwood High School graduate (associate of science, general concentration)
•    Natasha Palmer of Toledo, an Emmanuel Christian High School graduate (pre-business administration)
•    Brooke Croskey of Fayette, a Fayette High School graduate (medical imaging)
•    Ashley Benishek of Findlay, a Findlay Digital Academy graduate (diagnostic medical sonography)
•    Marissa Lajiness of Petersburg, Mich., an Ida High School graduate (occupational therapy assistant)
•    Brooke Stennett of Findlay, a Liberty-Benton High School graduate (radiography)
•    Dylan Higgins of Liberty Center, a Liberty Center High School graduate (fire science technology)
•    Erin Buckenberger of Maumee, a Maumee High School graduate (dental hygiene)
•    Marissa Bucher of McComb, a McComb High School graduate (early childhood education)
•    Shelby Williams of Findlay, a Millstream Career and Technology Center graduate (architectural engineering technology)
•    Solomon Kanyion of Toledo, a Monclova Christian Academy graduate (fire science technology)
•    Eric Boes of Sycamore, a Mohawk High School graduate (CAD technology)
•    John Romstadt of Toledo, a Northwood High School graduate (business)
•    Tristan Burt of Toledo, a Notre Dame Academy graduate (diagnostic medical sonography)
•    Justin Velliquette of Oak Harbor, an Oak Harbor High School graduate (financial services sales)
•    Corey Hasselman of Weston, an Otsego High School graduate (computer science)
•    Hannah Kaufman of Ottawa, an Ottawa-Glandorf High School graduate (radiography)
•    Sabrina Lewis of Perrysburg, a Penta Career Center graduate (architectural engineering technology)
•    Michael Schoenlein of Perrysburg, a Perrysburg High School graduate (computer science)
•    Katie Snider of Mount Blanchard, a Riverdale High School graduate (early childhood education)
•    Nathaniel Reiter of Rossford, a Rossford High School graduate (communications studies)
•    Katie Buchholz of Holland, a Springfield High School graduate (business)
•    Angelique Baird of Toledo, a St. Ursula Academy graduate (culinary arts)
•    Kyla Hoeflinger of Toledo, a Start High School graduate (physical therapist assistant)
•    Jordin Post of Toledo, a Sylvania Southview High School graduate (criminal justice technology)
•    Justin Pahl of Defiance, a Tinora High School graduate (diesel technology)
•    Jay Marquette of Rossford, a Toledo Central Catholic High School graduate (undecided)
•    Brandon Eldridge of Monclova, a Toledo Christian School graduate (early childhood education)
•    Cristina Loar of Toledo, a Toledo School for the Arts graduate (world language studies)
•    Olivia Wills of Van Buren, a Van Buren High School graduate (photography)
•    Lacey Glander of Toledo, a Whitmer High School graduate (dental hygiene)
•    Katelyn Jackson of Elmore, a Woodmore High School graduate (radiography)
•    Julie Bitter of Toledo, a Woodward High School graduate (physical therapist assistant)

Owens Honors Men’s and Women’s Basketball Programs

Posted on May 16th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored the Express basketball programs at its annual awards banquet for displaying excellence during intercollegiate competition. Student-athletes participating in men’s and women’s basketball were recognized for their athletic achievements.

Women’s Basketball awards presented were:
Most Valuable Player – Jasmine Blanton of Toledo (Notre Dame Academy)
Co-Most Improved Players – Saige Meyer of Deshler (Patrick Henry H.S.) and Karrah Windau of Carey (Carey H.S.)
Defensive Player of the Year – Hailey Galvan of Archbold (Archbold H.S.)
Coaches Award – Kieona Foster of Lima (Lima Shawnee H.S.)
Mark Henry Award – Jordan Floyd of Waterville (Anthony Wayne H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Jasmine Blanton
OCCAC Coach of the Year – Michael Llanas
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Jasmine Blanton
OCCAC All-Conference Second Team – Aja Hall of Fostoria (Fostoria H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention – Karrah Windau and Brittany Morris of Sandusky (Margaretta H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Jasmine Blanton
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – Jasmine Blanton

Express women’s basketball team members also included Nasumbi Beard of Mansfield (Ontario H.S.), Dana Mathews of Struthers (Struthers H.S.), Joi Jennings of Detroit (Waterford Christian Academy) and Megan Miller of Tiffin (Tiffin Columbian H.S.).

Led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs, the Express men’s basketball team finished the 2009-10 season with a 10-21 overall record and a 3-9 mark (sixth place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Owens lost to Columbus State Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Men’s Basketball awards presented were:
Co-Most Valuable Players – Tommy Kralovic Jr. of Rossford (Rossford H.S.) and Craig Short of Toledo (Rogers H.S.),
Most Improved Player – Jerron Jamerson of South Bend, Ind. (Washington H.S.)
Defensive Player of the Year – Craig Short
Coaches Award – Taronta Cole Jr. of Gulfport (Gulfport H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention – Calvin Edwards of Delaware (Rutherford B. Hayes H.S.)

Members of the Owens Express men’s basketball team also were Derrick Sanderfer Jr. of Toledo (Rogers H.S.), Andrew Scarton of Flat Rock, Mich. (Flat Rock Community H.S.), Kesean Kerkulah of Toledo (Rogers H.S.), Kendall Frank of Chicago (Plainfield North H.S.), James Wimberly of Akron (Firestone H.S.) and Ababacar Ndoye of Ann Arbor, Mich. (Ypsilanti H.S.).

Owens Community College to Host Express Girls High School Team Shootout, June 17-18

Posted on May 12th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area high school varsity girls basketball teams interested in competing against some of the best high schools from the Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio regions are invited to participate in a two-day Express Girls High School Team Shootout hosted by Owens Community College, Friday-Saturday, June 17-18.

The basketball team shootout competition will begin each day at 9 a.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Each high school team will be guaranteed four games per day and basketball programs will have the opportunity to compete on either Friday or Saturday, or both days. The camp fee is $250 per team for one day or $300 per team for both days.

The number of participating teams is limited and reservations are required. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7941 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7941.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Student Leaders Inducted Into Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society

Posted on May 11th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus students were recently honored for their excellence in higher education, earning membership into the Beta Xi Chi Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society.

“Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus is extremely proud of our inductees for their dedication and commitment to higher education,” said Matthew Gosses, Owens Assistant Professor of Science and Phi Theta Kappa Advisor. “Induction into the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society is considered one of the highest compliments an individual in higher education can receive. Their selection is a tremendous achievement.”

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

The Beta Xi Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society student inductees for the 2010-11 academic year are Phillip Carlen of Findlay (pre-business administration), Jodie Cutlip of Vanlue (office administration), Hank Doster of Findlay (commercial art technology), Ashley Inbody of North Baltimore (social work), Cori Rock of Vanlue (pre-medical assistant), Terry Woessner of Fostoria (electrical), Tammy Gierke of Findlay (information systems), Anthony Lai of Findlay (associate of science, general concentration), Jessica Lammers of Ottawa (pre-nursing), Karen Lehman of Carey (accounting), Michael Martin of Findlay (networking and information systems support), Lynelin Mata of Findlay (massage therapy), Constance Santangelo of Fostoria (biology), Toni Shultz-Heilman of Vanlue (criminal justice technology) and Jane Tackett of North Baltimore (social work).

Over 1,200 Owens Students Achieve Goals and Dreams During Spring Commencement Ceremonies

Posted on May 10th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 1,200 Owens Community College students recently achieved their educational goals and now are ready to embark on their career endeavors as first responders, educators, scientists, health care professionals, technologists, musicians, skilled laborers and business leaders of tomorrow after receiving their degrees during the academic institution’s 45th annual Owens Community College Spring Commencement.

For 53-year-old Anne Velikoff of Findlay, a cancer information management major, Spring Commencement represents the beginning to a new career as a cancer registrar.

“I feel a sense of accomplishment in receiving my degree and look forward to helping people in my new cancer information management field,” explained Velikoff, who previously worked as a dental hygienist and chose a new career direction as a result of a family member being diagnosed with cancer.

“I’m excited to graduate from Owens and receive my associate’s degree in biology,” said an excited Alyssa LaVoy of Pemberville, a 20-year-old biology major who intends on transferring to The Ohio State University and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biology. “Knowing that I have my degree in hand makes me realize that I am one step closer to my eventual goal of becoming a pediatrician.”

Bowling Green resident and criminal justice technology major Bodie Bankey, age 18, found it hard to believe that graduation day has arrived.

“Graduation is an once-in-a-lifetime moment and I am trying to take it all in,” stated Bankey, who is one year away from obtaining his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice through a partnership between Owens and Ohio University. “My hard work has paid off.”

After earning a bachelor’s degree, Bankey, who is homeschooled and took classes at both Bowling Green High School and Owens, has set his sights on a master’s degree in criminal justice from Bowling Green State University.

Providing graduates with words of wisdom as they begin their new careers, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown addressed the Owens graduating class, as well as thousands of family and friends, as keynote speaker and shared that your only limitations are your own possibilities.

“A commencement signals the start of a new chapter of your career and life,” stated Sen. Brown. “For some of you an associate’s degree is what you need to transition into a new career with new opportunities. For others, it will help you enter a four-year college and a career and life limited only by your drive and imagination.”

Since assuming office in January 2007, Sen. Brown has held more than a 170 community roundtables across the state, visiting each of Ohio’s 88 counties at least once to talk with local leaders, business owners, educators and citizens with the goal of finding ways to rebuild the nation’s middle class.

Believing that our nation’s higher education system – especially Ohio’s community college system – is critical to the country’s economic competitiveness, Sen. Brown convened a first-of-its-kind Ohio College Presidents Conference in Washington, D.C., now in its fourth year. The conference brings together more than 50 presidents from Ohio’s four- and two-year colleges and universities in order to expand higher education access and affordability, support opportunities for research and innovation, and connect higher education with high schools and workforce needs.

A native of Mansfield, where he spent time on a family farm and earned his Eagle Scout, Brown is Ohio’s first senator in 40 years to sit on the Agriculture Committee. He also serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee where he works to ensure that Ohio receives its fair share of federal investments. And as a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, Sen. Brown is working to ensure veterans receive the benefits they have earned. Brown also serves on the Senate Banking Committee, where he is Chairman of the Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection.

Additionally, Christine Drath, a diagnostic medical sonography student, was selected as the Owens class representative and addressed the graduates during the Spring Commencement ceremony.

The Toledo resident was born the third of four children to a father with a 10th grade education and a mother with a high school diploma. Her family received public assistance in the form of welfare for the majority of her childhood.

At the age of 14, she began working in the restaurant industry. It served as a life-changing experience for Drath, 1993 Whitmer High School graduate, as she discovered she could live independently and take care of herself with steady employment. Making a promise to set a good example for her own two children Nicholas and William, ages 13 and 15, respectively, Drath continued to advance in her career and recently served as an accounting clerk. However, she always knew she wanted more for herself and her family.

As the boys grew up, Drath found herself with a little more spare time and decided four years ago to make a significant decision to pursue her educational and career aspirations by enrolling at Owens.

Drath, now age 35, soon discovered that she did have what it takes to excel in college. She graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0 grade point average and as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa and Chi Alpha Epsilon honor societies. She also was nominated for this year’s Allied Health Honor Award in addition to receiving the prestigious honor of representing her graduating class as the student speaker.

She credits her success to an incredible amount of hard work, the support of her children and the support of the faculty at Owens, especially Susan Perry. Drath’s commencement speech addressed her own personal journey through life and college with emphasis placed on those who made a profound impact in her realizing her career goals.

“I started this journey unsure and afraid,” said Drath. “Along the way, I found not just knowledge or a new career. I found friendship. I found experience. I found compassion. I found my calling. I found myself. I did not anticipate the evolutionary process of higher education, but I am a testament to all that it encompasses. Congratulations graduates!”

After graduation, Drath will begin work at the University of Michigan as an ultrasound technician. She hopes that one day she can continue her education and help other new graduates by becoming an ultrasound practitioner, a position reserved for highly educated ultrasound technicians.

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Owens Community College Welcomes Internationally-Acclaimed Celtic Harpist Sharlene Wallace, May 16

Posted on May 10th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Internationally-acclaimed Celtic harpist Sharlene Wallace will bring her unique musical blend of traditional Celtic and contemporary sound to Northwest Ohio as Owens Community College presents a free concert on Monday, May 16.

Sponsored by the Northwest Ohio Chapter of the American Harp Society, Wallace’s performance will take place in the College’s Studio Theatre at 7 p.m. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Wallace is regarded as one of Canada’ most prolific and influential Celtic/lever harpists. She has garnered first place honors for her masterful talents at several international competitions, including the Lyon and Healy International Pop and Jazz Lever Harp Competition and the Concours d’Improvisation de Rencontres Internationales de Harpe Celtique, and has created five independent CDs, which were inspired by her explorations in South American, Celtic, Classical and contemporary music and by her close connection with the Canadian landscape.

The Toronto resident regularly tours internationally, giving concerts, workshops, master classes and adjudications. Wallace has performed in numerous festivals and concert series across North America and in Europe, including Celtica and the Workshop Internazionale di Arpa in Italy, Festival of the Sound, Harpcon and the Vancouver Island Musicfest. She has been involved in collaborations with bass player George Koller, piano/flute player Susan Piltch and accordion/fiddle player Adrian Dolan, among many others.

Additionally, Wallace serves on the faculties of both York and Guelph universities teaching Classical and lever harps and is a Principal Harpist with the Oakville and Kingston symphonies.

For more information about this event, call (419) 478-4177.

Owens Community College to Host GED Graduation Ceremony, May 15

Posted on May 10th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 40 area residents will be honored for achieving academic excellence as Owens Community College will serve as host to its second annual GED Graduation Ceremony on Sunday, May 15.

Presented by the College’s Office of Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE), the special ceremonies will occur at 1 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The GED Graduation Ceremony is open to the public.

Graduates will be receiving their Ohio High School Equivalence Diploma, also known as the General Educational Development (GED) Diploma, as part of the graduation ceremony. Tracy Harmon and Rebekah Hurst have been selected as the student class representatives and will address the graduates as keynote speakers during the event.

“Owens Community College is honored to celebrate the many successes of our graduates, many of whom have defied the odds and overcome obstacles in pursuit of their GED Diploma,” said Joyce Winters, Owens Director of ABLE and Assistant Director of Teaching and Learning Success. “Each student has worked extremely hard to achieve their GED Diploma, which will certainly open new doors to career and educational possibilities.”

Owens Student Leaders Inducted Into Kappa Beta Delta International Honor Society

Posted on May 9th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students were recently honored for their academic accomplishments in business, earning membership into the Kappa Beta Delta International Honor Society.

Kappa Beta Delta was established in 1997 as an international honor society exclusively for Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) accredited two-year business programs.

Standing for excellence, trustworthiness and genuineness, the overall mission of Kappa Beta Delta is to encourage and recognize scholarship and accomplishment among students of business, management and administration at two-year academic institutions. Additionally, the international honor society promotes student aspirations toward personal and professional improvement and a life distinguished by honorable service to humankind.

“Owens Community College is extremely proud of our inductees for their excellence in higher education business programs,” said Barb DiNardo, Owens Professor of Business Technology and Kappa Beta Delta Advisor. “Induction to Kappa Beta Delta is considered a lifetime honor and quite an achievement within the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs.”

Selection criterion for students into Kappa Beta Delta is based upon completing a minimum of 15 semester hours of credit and achieving a minimum 3.5 grade point average, among other areas.

The Kappa Beta Delta International Honor Society student inductees for the 2010-11 academic year are Tia Angelo of Fostoria (business management), Katie Blum of Millbury (undecided), Jennifer Braden-Schmidt of Waterville (business management), Loral Browning of Toledo (financial services sales), Anna Christen of Curtice (accounting), Brittany Cox of Toledo (undecided), John Dziendziel of Erie, Mich. (computer programming), Kenneth Hall of Oregon (pre-business administration), Ruth Kuohn of Toledo (medical office support), Terri Leary of Pemberville (undecided), Joseph Mackey of Curtice (business management), Lindsay McLaughlin of Toledo (accounting), Saige Meyer of Deshler (pre-business administration), Dean Niederkohr of Ottawa Lake, Mich. (systems security and information assurance), Olumide Oshodi of Toledo (accounting), Julia Parkins of Tiffin (business management), Amy Rentz of Arlington (accounting), Samah Saleh of Lambertville, Mich. (retailing management), Kathleen Sherwood of Toledo (accounting), Eric Taylor of Curtice (information systems), Sarah Welch of Findlay (office administration), Aimee Wozniak of Toledo (accounting), Nancy Smeeton-Gaietto of Bloomville (real estate), Jennifer Schmidt of Waterville (business management), Kenneth Korn of Bowling Green (organizational leadership), Elizabeth McGlynn of Toledo (information systems) and Tammy Gierke of Findlay (information systems).

Owens Express Women’s Softball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, May 12-13

Posted on May 9th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s softball team will look to advance to the national championship tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Women’s Softball Championship later this week. The tournament will be held in Battle Creek, Mich., Thursday-Friday, May 12-13.

Coached by Duane Lanham, the Express will take a 36-2 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play the winner of the Lake Michigan College/Jackson Community College game at 12 p.m. on Thursday, May 12. If they would advance, the Express will play at 6 p.m. on Thursday. The championship game will occur at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 13.

Teams participating in the tournament include Owens, Kalamazoo Valley Community College (34-4), Jackson Community College (16-26), Muskegon Community College (36-15), Grand Rapids Community College (20-26) and Lake Michigan College (16-26).

Earlier this year, Lanham’s team won its tenth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference title (6-2 record) in the program’s history. The conference championship is the six in the last seven years. Owens is currently ranked No. 8 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Softball poll.

The NJCAA Division II Softball National Championship will be held May 19-21 in Bloomington, Ill.

Owens Community College Announces New Motorcycle Safety Training Experienced Rider Course

Posted on May 5th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services is expanding its Motorcycle Safety Training class offerings and partnership with Motorcycle Ohio by announcing the addition of a new Experienced Rider Course. The first class will take place on Saturday, May 14.

The College’s new Experienced Rider Course will require six hours of experiential riding at Owens’ 250 feet by 500 feet defensive driving pad adjacent to the Fire Science and Law Enforcement Center in Perrysburg Township. Each class will occur from 2-8 p.m. on the Toledo-area Campus. Other dates in which the new class is scheduled during months May through September are July 23 and Sept. 17.

“Owens Community College is excited to expand its partnership with Motorcycle Ohio and offer a new Experience Rider Course to complement the already highly successful Basic Rider Course,” said Rhonda Hogrefe, Owens Continuing Education and Community Service Account Representative and Motorcycle Safety Training Coordinator. “In its first four years at Owens, the Motorcycle Safety Training class has trained over 1,700 individuals during the spring, summer and fall months and we expect that total to grow with the addition of the new educational course.”

Hogrefe added, “Motorcycle rider training experience reduces accident involvement. We do not want individuals to become a motorcycle fatality statistic.”

The Experienced Rider Course is designed to provide an experienced/endorsed rider with knowledge and skills to improve control and minimize risks while riding with a passenger. Additionally, class attendees will learn how their motorcycle handles in basic and crash-avoidance maneuvers. Topics and range exercises will also include control at low speed, stropping quickly, cornering finesse, multiple curves, limited-space maneuvers, control-skills practice and hazard avoidance, among others.

In addition to the new Experienced Rider Course, Owens offers a 16-hour Basic Rider Course. The three-day course occurs on Thursday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays during the months March through October. Four hours take place within a classroom at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee and highlight the introduction to motorcycling, preparing to ride and street strategies. The final 12 hours are held as part of practice riding sessions at Owens’ defensive driving pad.

Motorcycle Ohio is regarded as the premier motorcycle safety and education program in the state, having enhanced the riding skills of over 115,000 motorcyclists since its founding in 1987. The organization has 20 permanent training locations throughout Ohio and one mobile program, as well as a fleet of 450 training motorcycles, helmets and over 250 instructors. Motorcycle Ohio’s Basic Rider Course or “Riding and Street Skills” was first made available to the public in 1988, while the Experienced Rider Course was added in 1992. An Instructor Preparation Course is available for experienced motorcyclists interested in becoming a Motorcycle Ohio instructor.

Similar to the College’s Basic Rider Course, attendees will be provided with motorcycles, helmets and a student workbook. Individuals must show proof of a Motorcycle Endorsement on their driver’s license or a valid Temporary Motorcycle permit in order to participate in the course.

The cost to participate in the class is only $25, while individuals under 18 years of age can enroll for free. Space is limited to 12 riders per class. For additional information, contact the College’s Workforce and Community Services at (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357. Individuals can register online at www.motorcycle.ohio.gov ( http://www.motorcycle.ohio.gov/ )by clicking on the Wood County icon.

Owens Community College Express Golf Competes in NJCAA Regional Championships, May 9-10

Posted on May 5th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Express golf begins its postseason run toward a national title as the program competes in the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Golf Championships next week. The tournament will be held at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek, Mich., Monday-Tuesday, May 9-10.

The Express golf team captured one match and invitational title during the season, highlighted by a third-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program also finished third in the NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 329-309 (638) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Now in its sixth year as an intercollegiate athletic program, Owens will compete against 10 intercollegiate golf programs and over 60 individuals in the two-day 54-hole NJCAA Region XII tournament. The program must finish as one of the top two teams to advance to the NJCAA Division II National Championship, May 17-20. Individuals can also advance to the national championship tournament. Owens made two trips (2005 and 2008) to the NJCAA Division II National Championship.

Owens Express golf student-athletes include Brooks Gardner of Bowling Green, 81 scoring average (Bowling Green H.S.), Lee Schmidlin of Toledo, 84.3 scoring average (Whitmer H.S.), Kyle Anderson of Monroe, Mich., 80.3 scoring average (St. Mary Catholic Central H.S.), Brian Brumenshenkel of Maumee, 83.5 scoring average (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Louis Fahrbach of Northwood, 84.8 scoring average (Northwood H.S.), Greg Hermes of Maumee, 80.8 scoring average (Maumee H.S.), Kevin Hoyle of Maumee, 84 scoring average (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Casey Lawless of Orillia, Canada, 81.6 scoring average (Patrick Fogarty Secondary School) and Kyle Simmons of Millbury, 80.7 scoring average (Genoa H.S.).

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

Posted on May 4th, 2011

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

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

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

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

All requirements of the Ohio Revised Code and Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission must be met for certification. Applications for academy classes should be completed and returned to the College by June 24. Police Academy Program classes begin in August.

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

Owens Community College Accepting Applications for Fall Police Academy

Posted on May 3rd, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on April 29th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Alumni Association Awards Detective Keith Dressel Memorial Scholarship

Posted on April 29th, 2011

Detective Keith Dressel Memorial Scholarship recipient Gina Meyers (center) poses for a photo with Keith Dressel's parents Michael and Larraine Dressel following the Outstanding Service Awards event at Owens.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College student Gina Meyers of Leipsic has been chosen by the Alumni Association to receive an $800 Detective Keith Dressel Memorial Scholarship for the upcoming 2011-12 academic year.

Established in 2007, the endowed scholarship honors the legacy of Detective Keith Dressel of the Toledo Police Department’s Vice/Narcotics Section Special Enforcement Division and his service to the community. The scholarship is given annually to an Owens student at the Outstanding Service Awards who has the courage to become a police officer and embodies the passion, conviction and perseverance demonstrated by Detective Dressel during his career.

According to Laura Moore, Executive Director of the Owens Alumni Association, the Detective Keith Dressel Memorial Scholarship was established to honor Detective Keith Dressel and his dedication to public service, as well as support the next generation of law enforcement officers.

“Both Detective Dressel and his wife, Danielle, are part of the College’s alumni family as they both attended Owens. Gina Meyers has the passion and conviction demonstrated by Detective Dressel during his career and a very deserving recipient of this scholarship,” stated Moore.

Additional selection criteria for the scholarship is based upon recipients being enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours at Owens per semester, holding second-year student status and achieving at least a 2.5 cumulative grade point average. Preference is given to students with aspirations of a law enforcement career.

Meyers is completing her first-year as an Owens student and is enrolled full-time as a criminal justice technology major. The Leipsic High School graduate’s interest in law enforcement as a career was initially sparked in part by positive portrayals of law enforcement officials in the media. Additionally, she served as President of her local 4-H group and worked extensively with younger adults as a mentor and as an elementary school teacher’s aide. After graduation, Meyers plans to attend the Ohio Basic Peace Officer Training Academy at Owens.

“Getting involved in law enforcement will allow me to help my fellow citizens and college is where the journey begins,” explained Meyers. “As a future member of the law enforcement community, I want to make a positive impact in the lives of troubled youth. This scholarship will help me fully concentrate on my school work.”

In February 2007, Detective Dressel was fatally wounded in the line of duty. He provided public service to the Toledo Police Department and the citizens of Toledo for 14 years. Detective Dressel left behind his wife, Danielle, and two children, Sydney and Noah, along with a very large extended family.

Owens Community College Alumni Association Honors Local Safety Forces and Citizens With Outstanding Service Awards

Posted on April 29th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Nine area public safety professionals, one civilian and one team have been chosen to receive the eighth annual Outstanding Service Awards by Owens Community College’s Alumni Association for tremendous contributions to Northwest Ohio’s surrounding communities. The recipients are honored as part of a community celebration.

Award winners are Corbin Carpenter, James Cipiti, John Carpenter, Gary Roytek, Chad Smith, Bryce Blair, Jamie Morelock, Joseph Schwanzl, Charles Hudson, Lorrel Filliater and the Northwest Ohio Region One Urban Search and Rescue Team.

“Owens Community College’s Alumni Association is proud to once again recognize the humanitarian efforts of Northwest Ohio’s police, fire and emergency medical professionals, as well as private citizens,” said Andrea Gurcsik, Owens President of the Alumni Association. “Many of their selfless acts of public service go unnoticed as they do not seek out attention. The Outstanding Service Awards were created to honor their efforts and thank them for their continued service to our region, state and country.”

The awards are presented within the categories of outstanding Police Officer, Firefighter, Emergency Medical Technician, Service to Community and Community Spirit. Selection criterion is based upon a nomination process for candidates demonstrating exceptional service related to dedication, ingenuity, bravery, special skills and/or community service over a sustained period of time. The awards are not limited to a single recipient and can be a group honor where teamwork was a key element.

The recipients of the Outstanding Police Officer Award are Corbin Carpenter of Port Clinton (Officer, Port Clinton Police Department), James Cipiti of Port Clinton (Officer, Port Clinton Police Department) and John Carpenter of Port Clinton (Deputy, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office). Carpenter, Cipiti and Carpenter were nominated by Port Clinton Mayor Debbie Hymore-Tester for putting their lives at risk for the safety of the Port Clinton community.

On the afternoon of July 6, 2010, the Port Clinton Police and Ottawa County Sheriff’s departments were dispatched in response to a theft in progress at the Rite Aid Pharmacy in Port Clinton. While responding to the call, Carpenter, Cipiti and Carpenter were informed that the suspect was armed. Determining that the suspect had exited the rear of the building, the group pursued the individual through the east end of Port Clinton, into the neighboring township and through a grocery store parking lot and gas station. The chase continued past additional businesses and parking lots as the suspect jumped curbs and ignored the lights and sirens of the pursuing officers. The suspect’s flight endangered many customers and pedestrians.

Officer Carpenter continued his pursuit through residential neighborhoods until the suspect’s truck veered off the roadway and into a wooded area. The suspect exited the truck, ignored the officer’s verbal orders for him to show his hands and ran off into the woods. Eventually, Officer Carpenter drew close enough to apprehend the suspect. Officer Cipiti joined the effort to subdue the suspect and Deputy Carpenter assisted in taking him into custody. The three individuals went above and beyond to ensure the safety of the Rite Aid employees, as well as the innocent bystanders and pedestrians in the path of an armed and dangerous suspect as he fled from law enforcement.

Gary Roytek of Swanton (Captain, Swanton Fire Department) and Chad Smith of Swanton (Deputy Chief, Swanton Fire Department) are named the Outstanding Firefighter Award recipients. They were nominated by Assistant Chief Kelvin Davis from the Swanton Fire Department for responding quickly and decisively to rescue an individual who was in desperate need of their aid, while at the same time risking their own lives.

On Sept. 29, 2010, a fire erupted at a private residence on Airport Highway. Both Roytek and Smith heard the call and responded to the scene in a command vehicle. While en route to the scene, the two individuals received additional information from dispatch indicating that a resident might be trapped within the burning home. Immediately upon their arrival at the fire, both Roytek and Smith rushed into the house, located the individual and dragged her to safety. Neither Roytek nor Smith were wearing their breathing apparatus as the arrival of the fire engine had been delayed by a train. The resident was subsequently transported to Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center and later released with no significant injury. Thanks to the bravery and dedication of Roytek and Smith, the local resident is alive today.

The Outstanding Emergency Medical Technician Award honor is presented to the Northwest Ohio Region One Urban Search and Rescue Team, as well to Bryce Blair of Whitehouse (Captain, Toledo Fire and Rescue Department), Jamie Morelock of Toledo (Paramedic/Firefighter, Toledo Fire and Rescue Department) and Joseph Schwanzl of Rockford, Mich. (Lieutenant, Toledo Fire and Rescue Department). The team and three individuals were nominated by Toledo Fire and Rescue Department Captain Karen Marquardt for their efforts in saving a person’s life under adverse and dangerous conditions.

The Northwest Ohio Region One Urban Search and Rescue Team is comprised of individuals who are trained in structural collapse and other technical rescue disciplines to rescue persons in structures that have collapsed due to weather conditions, structural failure or an act of terrorism. Emergency organizations who are members of the Northwest Ohio team include Ballville Township Volunteer Fire Department, Clyde Fire Department, Huron Fire Department, Jerusalem Township Fire Department, Perkins Township Fire Department, Sandusky Fire Department, Shawnee Township Fire Department, Springfield Township Fire Department, Sylvania Township Fire Department, Vermillion Fire Department, and Toledo Fire and Rescue Department.

On July 7, 2010, a food processing plant on North River Road in Fremont experienced a partial roof collapse. The Fremont Fire Department responded immediately and determined that they needed mutual aid with larger assets. The Northwest Ohio Region One Urban Search and Rescue Team was activated along with several Toledo Fire and Rescue Department emergency vehicles.

Upon arrival, emergency officials were told that several large pre-cast concrete roof sections had collapsed on top of employees and contract workers. Two individuals were injured and had been rescued. However, two more people were trapped under the rubble. One victim was deceased while the other individual was talking to rescuers tunneling toward his location. Morelock, Schwanzl and Blair tunneled underneath large broken sections of concrete to create access to the trapped victim, while team members outside shored up the crippled roof with struts, raker shores and cribbing. The work was conducted in extremely dangerous conditions and could have been potentially disastrous due to the unstable nature of the collapsed building. The rescue effort took over four hours to reach the victim safely. The combined efforts of all those involved resulted in saving the person’s life.

Charles Hudson of Delta (Retired Fire Chief, Delta Community Fire Department) is the recipient of the Outstanding Service to the Community Award. Hudson was nominated by Delta Mayor Dan Miller for his tireless efforts to the Delta Community Fire Department and the village of Delta.

Hudson has served as a member of the Delta Community Fire Department for a majority of his life, having joined after graduating from high school in 1954. In 1979, he was appointed First Assistant Chief and served in that position until 1999, when he became Chief. Hudson has been instrumental in the growth of the department through the years, highlighted by the opening of a new fire station in 1980, the purchase of many new pieces of equipment and establishment of an EMS squad. His proudest accomplishment is establishing Advanced Life Support in Delta.

Additionally, Hudson has served as President of the Delta Fire Co. and President of the Fulton County Firemen’s Association. He also was a member of the Northwest Ohio Volunteer Fire School Committee for 21 years. Hudson served as Delta Community Fire Department’s Chief until Dec. 31, 2009, when he retired at the age of 75. However, he continues to serve in a part-time capacity and has been involved with the Delta Community Fire Department for the past 57 years.

Lorrel Filliater of Fostoria (Executive Director, Grand Court Assisted Living Facility) is named the Community Spirit Award recipient. Filliater was nominated by Hancock County Sheriff Michael Heldman for her dedication to local law enforcement and the positive impact her volunteerism efforts have made from a crime prevention standpoint.

Filliater has been involved with law enforcement and crime prevention initiatives for nearly two decades. Her activism includes membership with the Hancock County TRIAD chapter since its inception in 1996. She is regularly present at the monthly TRIAD meetings held at the local senior citizen center where law enforcement and senior citizens meet to discuss crime against seniors, scams and other topics related to their well-being. In both 2006 and 2010, Filliater coordinated the statewide TRIAD conferences held in Findlay. She has also served as a member of the Findlay/Hancock County Crime Prevention Association since 1998. The association works with various crime prevention programs in the community.

During a time of layoffs and cutbacks in the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, Filliater played an active role in training citizens who were interested in the Block Watch/Neighborhood Watch Program. She received her training in 2006 from the Ohio Crime Prevention Association and has trained and assisted in the implementation of programs in Fostoria as well as Hancock and Hardin counties. Presently, there are more than a dozen programs in operation as a result of her volunteerism efforts.

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.

1,206 Owens Community College Students to Graduate During Spring Commencement, May 6

Posted on April 27th, 2011

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PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – One thousand two hundred six candidates for graduation, including 196 from the Findlay-area Campus, will receive their degrees during the 45th annual Owens Community College Spring Commencement on Friday, May 6. The commencement will begin at 7 p.m. in the Student Health and Activities Center on the College’s Toledo-area Campus.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown will serve as the keynote speaker for the College’s Spring Commencement. Owens’ commencement ceremony is free and open to the public.

Sen. Brown is married to Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Connie Schultz. They reside in Avon and have three daughters, a son and a grandson, all of whom reside in Ohio.

Christine Drath, a diagnostic medical sonography student, has been selected as the Owens class representative and will address the graduates during the Spring Commencement ceremony.

At the age of 14, she began working in the restaurant industry. It served as a life-changing experience for Drath as she discovered she could live independently and take care of herself with steady employment. Making a promise to set a good example for her own two children Nicholas and William, ages 13 and 15, respectively, Drath continued to advance in her career and recently served as an accounting clerk. However, she always knew she wanted more for herself and her family.

“I was terrified to attend Owens. I didn’t know if I was smart enough or good enough,” said Drath, 1993 Whitmer High School graduate.

Drath, now age 35, soon discovered that she did have what it takes to excel in college. Today, she graduates summa cum laude with a 4.0 grade point average and as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa and Chi Alpha Epsilon honor societies. She also was nominated for this year’s Allied Health Honor Award in addition to receiving the prestigious honor of representing her graduating class as the student speaker.

She credits her success to an incredible amount of hard work, the support of her children and the support of the faculty at Owens, especially Susan Perry.

After graduation, she plans on working at the University of Michigan as an ultrasound technician. She hopes that one day she can continue her education and help other new graduates by becoming an ultrasound practitioner, a position reserved for highly educated ultrasound technicians.

Owens Community College Offers Spring ACT Preparation Class, May 9 – June 6

Posted on April 22nd, 2011

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

The ACT preparation class will occur Monday evenings, May 9 – June 6, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

During each of the four sessions, students will be tutored in all five sections of the ACT test. The actual ACT is comprised of one test in each of the following areas: English, math, reading, science reasoning and writing. In addition to being tutored in these areas through one-on-one teaching, students will learn traditional testing strategies such as how to take a timed test and how to find the elusive answer to a difficult question. The ACT preparation class will not occur on Monday, May 30, in observance of Memorial Day.

In addition to offering the ACT preparation class, Owens serves as a host site for the national ACT test. The next testing date after the ACT preparation class is June 11. Prior registration through the ACT organization is required.

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

Owens Environmental Club to Host Denim Collection Drive, April 25 – May 6

Posted on April 21st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s Environmental Club is encouraging area residents to bring their used denim jeans, jackets and purses of any particular color to the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses in support of environmental awareness as the student group hosts its second annual “Recycle Your Denim” Collection Drive, April 25 – May 6.

The denim collection drive initiative is part of a nationwide effort with the “®COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN.” environmental program. Founded in 2006, the denim program gives “new life” to used items by converting them to UltraTouch National Cotton Fiber Insulation. The insulation is then provided to communities in need to assist with building efforts. UltraTouch is composed of 85 percent recycled cotton fibers and is an environmentally safe, non-itch insulation without carcinogenic warnings, formaldehyde or chemical irritants.

Since the start of the “®COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN.” denim drive in 2006, the program has received a total of 270,000 pieces of denim and provided enough UltraTouch National Cotton Fiber Insulation for 540 houses in areas of the country affected by natural disasters, and more notably, preventing 200 tons of denim from being sent to landfills.

At the collection drive’s conclusion, all denim materials will be presented to Jerusalem Elementary fifth grader Erek Hansen to assist in his personal goal of collecting over 5,000 items for the “®COTTON. FROM BLUE TO GREEN.” program. Last year, the ten-year-old collected 4,154 denim items.

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

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

Owens Community College Presents Honor Flight Northwest Ohio Golf Outing in Waterville, May 14

Posted on April 20th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to enjoy a day of golf and entertainment in support of Honor Flight Northwest Ohio as Owens Community College presents the Honor Flight Northwest Ohio Golf Outing on Saturday, May 14.

Organized by the Owens Leadership Academy group Team Commodores, the golf outing will be held at the Fallen Timbers Fairways in Waterville. The event will feature 18-holes of golf, lunch, dinner, door prizes and on-course competitions.

All event proceeds will benefit Honor Flight Northwest Ohio, which is dedicated to sending veterans of Northwest Ohio to Washington D.C. to see the memorials built and dedicated in their honor. Founded in 2007, the organization has safely flown over 460 veterans to Washington D.C.

The four-person golf scramble competition will begin with a shotgun start at 12 p.m. Registration and lunch will precede the golf at 11 a.m. The day will conclude with participants reminiscing about their golfing experience over dinner at 5 p.m. A short program will occur at this time to recognize the top groups as well as select door prizes.

Individuals, businesses and organizations are invited to support the Honor Flight Northwest Ohio Golf Outing by entering a team and/or becoming a sponsor. The entry fee is only $60 per player or $240 per team. Among the various sponsorship opportunities are beverage cart sponsor ($150) or hole sponsor ($100). Attendees are also encouraged to bring a disposable camera, which will be given to veterans to use on their trip to Washington D.C.

Individuals must register by May 1 to participate in the Honor Flight Northwest Ohio Golf Outing. For more information, call (567) 661-7147 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7147, or by e-mail at mary_cole@owens.edu.

Owens Raises Violence Against Women Awareness With Silent Witness Project Display, April 16-23

Posted on April 20th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College is raising society’s awareness of violent crimes against women by serving as host to a Silent Witness Project public display, April 16-23. The public is encouraged to join the campus community and participate in the educational awareness program.

Coordinated by Owens’ Student Government, the Silent Witness Project will be available for public display in several locations on the Findlay-area Campus. The College is located on Bright Road in Findlay. The educational program is being held in conjunction with April serving as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

The Silent Witness Project at Owens is being presented in collaboration with the Northwest Ohio chapter of the Silent Witness Project, which was established by the Women’s Center at Bowling Green State University. Currently, there are over 50 silhouette witnesses in the local collection. Owens will display seven of BGSU’s silhouette figures at several locations on the Findlay-area Campus to include the Library, the Student Services Center, the Bookstore, the Vice President’s Office, the Testing Center and the Learning Center.

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College to Host Surplus Asset Sale, April 30

Posted on April 20th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents in need of furniture and equipment ranging from desks and chairs to light poles and a greenhouse are invited to Owens Community College as the academic institution hosts a community Surplus Asset Sale on Saturday, April 30.

The Surplus Asset Sale will occur from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the High Bay Complex on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township. Owens’ High Bay Complex is located at the convergence of D Street and 3rd Street. The event is open to the public.

Over 3,000 items will be available for purchase at various prices. Surplus Asset Sale items include light poles, commercial sinks, overhead cranes, a portable wall system, desks, chairs, tack boards, televisions, furniture panels, electrical panels, exercise equipment, tablet student chairs, files, shop benches, wood furniture, systems furniture, cork boards, sofa units, tables, modular furniture, hospital beds, bookcases, cabinets, stainless steel sinks, computer printers, vehicles, tractors, lawn care equipment, a walk-in cooler and a greenhouse, among other equipment.

All purchased items must be picked up at the sale’s conclusion. Parking for the Surplus Asset Sale will be available adjacent to the High Bay Complex. Payment methods will include money, check and credit card.

For more information, call (567) 661-2682 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2682.

Owens Arrowhead Park Learning Center to Host Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon, April 27

Posted on April 20th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Workforce and Community Services will celebrate Administrative Professionals Day by honoring area administrative professionals with a special luncheon featuring Transformations Institute President and author Patricia Altvater and Harmony Within founder Karen Steiner as the special guest speakers on Wednesday, April 27. The presentations will focus on “Creating a Life that Makes Your Heart Sing” during the luncheon event.

The Administrative Professionals Day luncheon will occur from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee. Area administrative professionals and community members are encouraged to attend the event.

Altvater served as the Vice President of Sales for Adytum Software Inc. before opening 10 franchised women’s only fitness facilities. Additionally, she is author of “Choose Success – Ignite the Power Within” and “The Secret of Permanent Weight Loss”. She is also the creator of outsmartweight.com and host of The WOW Radio Show.

Altvater is committed to teaching people to embrace personal growth and success in a fun, joyful manner, which she accomplishes through group presentations, accountability circles and coaching, as well as through her books and monthly videos titled Conscious Transformations MomentsTM. She holds a master’s degree from Virginia Tech and is a member of the National Speakers Association, WEN-USA and Powerful You! Women’s Network.

Steiner is founder of Harmony Within, an organization that specializes in bringing harmony and order to home and work environments. In addition, she is a certified Feng Shui Practitioner for home and office space through the Feng Shui Institute of America, the Nine Harmonies School of Feng Shui and the International Interior Alignment Program. Steiner also holds specialized training in tai chi, aromatherapy and advanced space clearing. She earned her master’s degree from the University of Toledo.

The cost of the luncheon is $20 and reservations are required. For more information, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Owens Presents ‘Melodic Expressions’ Sixth Annual Spring Concert Series, April 21 – May 14

Posted on April 19th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents with a passion and an enjoyment of music are encouraged to join in celebrating the culmination of an academic year’s worth of Department of Fine and Performing Arts education as Owens Community College presents its sixth annual “Melodic Expressions” Spring Concert Series, April 21 – May 14. The Spring Concert Series will showcase the accomplishments of Owens students and faculty in a number of performances ranging from vocal to instrumental.

“‘Melodic Expressions’ is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the tremendous accomplishments of our Owens Community College Department of Fine and Performing Arts students,” said Dr. Doug Mead, Owens Chair of Fine and Performing Arts. “The upcoming recitals and ensembles have been mastered through academic learning within the classroom this past year. Events such as ‘Melodic Expressions’ provide our students with a great venue to display such musical talents in a real world setting.”

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

Thursday, April 21

Owens Jazz Ensemble

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

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

Owens Choir Concert
The College’s student choir class will feature a wide selection of songs from Broadway musicals during choral performance that showcases their vocal talents and abilities.

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

Monday, April 25

Owens Choir Concert

The College’s student choir class will present an encore edition of their Broadway musical song performance. A wide selection of extremely popular songs will be featured during the concert.

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

Thursday, April 28

Owens Pop Ensemble

Owens student performers within the College’s pop ensemble class will showcase their musicals skills during a performance that will highlight an array of genres, including rock, soul and funk, among others.

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

Saturday, April 30

Owens Voice Recitals

Area residents are invited to enjoy the amazing sounds of the College’s vocal students as part of an afternoon of voice recitals. The events will feature a wide range of music from Broadway hits to many of today’s popular chart-topping songs.

(3 p.m. and 5 p.m.) (Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre)

Sunday, May 1

Owens Concert Band

Attendees are in for an afternoon of masterful sounds courtesy of Owens’ concert band class. The concert will feature a wide range of musical selections to include patriotic music, Broadway show tunes and marches.

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

Saturday, May 14

Owens Faculty Voice Recital

Attendees will have the opportunity to be amazed by the musical talents of Owens Fine and Performing Arts Adjunct Instructors Jo-Anne Chrysochoos and Jodi Jobuck as the duo performs an array of genres during the live event.

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

All the performances are open to the public. For more information about the “Melodic Expressions” Spring Concert Series, contact the College’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club Hosts Annual Spring Plant Sale, April 26-27

Posted on April 19th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents seeking to add some new life and color to their gardens and yards this spring are encouraged to attend the Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club’s annual Spring Plant Sale at Owens Community College, April 26-27.

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

According to Chris Foley, Owens Associate Professor of Science, the student organization is excited to once again offer individuals the rare opportunity to purchase select trees, shrubs and annuals at a very minimal cost for the upcoming spring planting season.

“The annual spring plant sale also provides our students with the unique opportunity to showcase their talents to the general public and the campus community in the form of a wide range of hanging baskets and planters filled with beautiful blooming plants,” added Foley. “The containers were all grown by the students within the College’s greenhouse.”

A majority of the shrubs will cost $15-20, while varieties of trees will cost between $15-30. All proceeds from the plant sale will help in supporting the organization’s participation in the annual PLANET (Professional Landcare Network) Student Career Days, which is a national horticultural and landscape competition involving over 50 colleges and universities across the country.

Shrubs on hand will include assorted hydrangeas and flowering shrubs, as well as the Dwarf Burning Bush, Emerald Green Arborvitae, Bottle Brush Buckey and Virginia Sweetspire, among many others. Several rare and unusual trees will also be available, including the Japanese Stripped-bark Maple, Chinese Dogwood, Redbud, Carolina Silverbell and White Oak. The Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club will also sell perennials, including select hostas and daylilies. In addition, an assortment of planters and hanging baskets with flowering annuals, grown by the College’s greenhouse management class, will be available this year. Hanging baskets will cost between $12-14, while combination planters will cost $20. A complete listing of the available plants with their prices is available online at www.owens.edu/direct/plantsale.pdf.

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

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

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

Posted on April 18th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Art Exhibition Highlights Student Work at Owens’ Findlay-area Campus, April 26 – May 6

Posted on April 18th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College students will have the opportunity to showcase their many artistic talents as the Findlay-area Campus hosts its annual Spring Student Art Exhibition titled “Our Best Yet” in the Library Gallery, April 26 – May 6.

Additionally, the College will host a free community event, featuring Owens students, titled “An Evening of the Arts at Owens” on Tuesday, April 26. Owens student artists will share insight about their artistic expressions, while students within the “Beginning Creative Writing” and “Voice Class” courses will provide attendees with reading excerpts from their dramatic compositions or will sing, accompanied by guitar or CD, respectively. The reception will occur from 5-7 p.m. in the Findlay-area Campus Library. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is delighted to once again showcase the many talents of our students,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “The artistic expressions are extremely individualized and reflect the unique creative abilities and inspirations of each student artist. I encourage area residents to visit the Library Gallery and view their unique work.”

The Spring Student Art Exhibition features numerous pieces of artwork from paintings to drawings created by student artists enrolled in the College’s “Fundamentals of Drawing” course, which is instructed by Erika Clark, Owens Adjunct Instructor. In this course, students obtain experiential learning within various areas, including the study of object drawing, form organization, value, perspective, proportion and texture.

In addition, student artists enrolled in the College’s “Foundations in 2D Design” course, also instructed by Clark, will present their artistic expressions within the Library Gallery. In this course, students develop an understanding of basic studio art principles, critical skills and media manipulation, covering the topics of color theory and the use of two-dimensional space.

Students from the College’s “Black and White Photography I and II” courses instructed by Melissa Harding, Owens Adjunct Instructor, will showcase their artistic work as part of the exhibit. The classes focus on photography both as a fine art and for commercial means. Students learn about the development of skills related to visual literacy, film exposure, making prints and preparing prints for exhibition, among many other areas.

Owens student artists enrolled in the College’s “Foundations in 3D Design” course, instructed by Owens Adjunct Instructor Rhonda Grubbs, will present their artistic expressions within the Library Gallery. In this course, students develop the ability to analyze form and space relationships while being introduced to basic three-dimensional processes and materials, including cardboard and clay.

Students within the College’s “Digital Imaging” course will also showcase their talents as part of the exhibition. Instructed by Owens Adjunct Instructor Wendy Hensley, the course provides students with hands-on experiential learning specific to digital photography, retouching, illustrations, video capture and color printout.

Owens student artists enrolled in the College’s “Electronic Page Layout” course, also instructed by Hensley, will present their artistic expressions within the Library Gallery. In this course, students learn about the fundamentals of using desktop publishing software, specifically setting up a document as well as creating and applying colors, tints and gradients to certain projects.

Students enrolled in the “Beginning Creative Writing” course, instructed by Owens Adjunct Instructor Kayla Williams, will share their dramatic compositions in conjunction with the Library Gallery art exhibition. In this course, students are provided basic techniques and approaches for creative expression in writing of poetry and fiction, with emphasis on recognition and use of figurative language, exploration and development of personal viewpoint, and vocabulary style and application of creative strategies, techniques and devices.

Finally, Owens students participating in the “Voice Class” will share various musical selections during “An Evening of the Arts at Owens” event. The course is instructed by Owens Adjunct Instructor Mark Sarkan and prepares students for the stylistic demands of vocal music. In a group setting, students learn about basic singing techniques, including proper breathing, tone production and tuning.

Students whose work will be displayed are Audrey Thacker of Tiffin, Hollie McDonald of Findlay, Ashley Nelson of Findlay, Chelsey Brown of Findlay, Shane Burnworth of Dunkirk, Austin Cameron of Findlay, Leslie Chapin of Bowling Green, Samantha Clayton of North Baltimore, Hank Doster of Findlay, Katherine Hemminger of North Baltimore, Brian Honigfort of McComb, Matthew Howell of Findlay, Jude Jovanovic of Bowling Green, Kendel Kissinger of Weston, Caitlyn Payne of Fostoria, Gabrielle Stutz of Oviedo, Fla., Ashley Vermilyea of Findlay, Chelsie Ayers of Findlay, YoonKyung Chung of Yoe-Euido Youngdeung, South Korea, Rachel Enright of Findlay, Sandra Fitzgerald of Findlay, Sherry Musgrave of Bloomdale, Britany Waldman of Findlay, Courtney Weaver of Mount Blanchard, Jessica Wiler of Findlay, Cassie Wolfe of Columbus Grove, Rebeca Mahler of Findlay, Scott Gearing of Upper Sandusky, Kim Peterson of Findlay, Zach Steinman of Jerry City and Sam Troyer of Findlay.

Owens students reading excerpts from their dramatic compositions as part of “An Evening of the Arts at Owens” event are Trent Berry of Bowling Green, Austin Cameron of Findlay, Matt Carson of Findlay, Elizabeth Clark of Findlay, Andrew Eaton of Findlay, Jeffrey Flowers of Norwalk, Benjamin Frost of Sao Paulo, Brazil, Shawna Ledbetter of Findlay, Aaron McDonald of New Riegel and Seth Whitaker of Forest.

Vocal students showcasing their musical talents during the reception are Adam Rader of Findlay, Shane Roth of Findlay, Jessica Rowan of Findlay and Dorian Voltaire of Findlay.

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

50 Students to Graduate From Owens Basic Peace Officer Training Academies, April 18

Posted on April 18th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Fifty students from the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses will be recognized as Ohio Basic Peace Officer Training Academy graduates at Owens Community College on Monday, April 18.

“Owens Community College is proud to continue its collaboration with the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission and recognize these 50 individuals for their educational accomplishment,” said Robert Albright, Owens Coordinator of Public Service Training Program. “Our nation would not experience freedom and safety as we know it without each graduate’s decision to pursue a career in public service.”

The following students have completed the required number of law enforcement contact hours set forth by the Ohio Revised Code and the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission.

Toledo-area Campus Basic Peace Officer Day Academy:

James Ball of Toledo

Brian Biegajski of Sylvania

Kevin Chirnside of Toledo

Robert Coulson of Perrysburg

Kevin Desparios of Perrysburg

Johnathan DeVol of Lambertville, Mich.

Nathan Eikost of Walbridge (sponsored by Lake Township Police Department)

Gaines Fane of Toledo

Tyler Gearig of Wauseon

Gregory Grieger of Oak Harbor

Brittany Heflin of Holland

Chad Jackson of Perrysburg

Justin Marsh of Maumee

Joseph Navarre of Toledo

Zachary O’Neil of Norwalk

Ross Peters of Walbridge

William Pollock of Rossford

David Ranazzi of Toledo

Rachelle Ruiz-Fane of Toledo

Jourdan Rupert of Genoa

Andrew Sabo of Perrysburg (sponsored by Wood County Sheriff’s Department)

Derrick Shirey of Toledo

Dustin Smith of Napoleon

Hector Solis of Toledo

Tyler Swerlein of Walbridge

Andrew Thomasson of Maumee

Richard Torres of Perrysburg

Andrew Trumbull of Toledo

Toledo-area Campus Basic Peace Officer Night Academy:

Andrew Blair of Temperance, Mich.

Bradley Clay of Toledo

Rebecca Dykyj of Toledo

Kevin Huguelet of Toledo (sponsored by Woodville Police Department)

Latrice Mickles of Toledo

Shannon Nevers of Toledo

Tyler Petree of LaSalle, Mich.

Kevin Sproel II of Norwalk

Findlay-area Campus Basic Peace Officer Academy:

John Biggs of Findlay

Ryan Canterbury of Rudolph

Seth Combs of Upper Sandusky

Joe DeWood of Findlay

Richard Donaldson of Tiffin

Brian Haines of Chardon

Joshua Knoke of Bowling Green

Drew McClellan of Findlay

Ryan Miller of Fostoria

Jen Muro of Bradner

Candace Pahl of Upper Sandusky

John Rank of Arcadia

Jake Sigler of Findlay (sponsored by Hancock County Sheriff’s Department)

Kody Stickel of Upper Sandusky

Owens Community College Receives Ottawa Hills Fire Truck and Equipment Donation

Posted on April 8th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Findlay-area Campus to Present Pancake Breakfast to Benefit Hancock County Relay for Life, April 9

Posted on April 7th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents are invited to begin their morning with a piping hot pancake breakfast at the Max and Erma’s Restaurant in Findlay as Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus’ Relay for Life team presents a pancake breakfast cancer awareness fundraising event on Saturday, April 9.

The pancake breakfast event will occur from 8-10 a.m. at the Max and Erma’s Restaurant, which is located at 1107 Trenton Ave. in Findlay. Attendees will receive pancakes and sausage patties as part of the community breakfast. Refreshments such as coffee and juice will also be available.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Relay for Life of Hancock County, which will be held June 10-11 at Liberty-Benton High School in Findlay.

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 5,000 communities and 19 countries participate in the cancer awareness fundraiser.

Relay for Life is a fun-filled overnight event designed to celebrate survivorship and raise money for research, education, advocacy and quality life programs of the American Cancer Society. During the event, teams of people gather and take turns walking or running laps. Each team tries to keep at least one member on the track at all times as part of the 24-hour event.

Tickets for the breakfast are only $5 and carry-out orders are welcomed. For more information, call (567) 429-3088 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3088.

Owens Findlay-area Campus to Host Spring 2011 Career Fair, April 14

Posted on April 7th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents and students are invited to learn about and explore various employment opportunities available throughout the region as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus hosts a Spring 2011 Career Fair on Thursday, April 14.

Sponsored by Owens’ Career Services Office, the Spring 2011 Career Fair will occur from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the College’s Conference Center on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

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

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

Area employers in attendance will include Med1Care, The Findlay Publishing Company, TRAINCO Inc. Truck Driving Schools, Community Hospice Care, Kelly Services Inc., Cummins Filtration, Volunteers of America, Primerica, A to Z Health Care Inc., JOBsolutions, The Home Depot, Findlay-Hancock County Library, AMRI Inc., Western and Southern Life, U.S. Marine Corps and Elmwood at The Springs Health and Wellness Campus, among others. Owens will also have information available for those individuals interested in pursuing a college education.

In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to hear a presentation on “Social Media Networking in the Job Search” by University of Findlay Director of the MBA and Non-Traditional Programs Dr. Scott Freehafer. The lecture presentation will begin at 10 a.m. in the College’s Conference Center.

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

Owens’ Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery Presents Juried Student Art Exhibition, April 9-30

Posted on April 6th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students will have the unique opportunity to showcase their artistic talents as the Center for Fine and Performing Arts hosts the eighth annual Juried Student Art Exhibition, April 9-30.

In addition, the College will host a free opening reception and award ceremony for the exhibit on Saturday, April 9 from 5-7 p.m. in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Music during the opening reception will be performed by the Zac Kreuz Ensemble featuring Owens Adjunct Instructors of Fine and Performing Arts Zac Kreuz of Perrysburg and Kyle Turner of Bowling Green.

“Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts is proud to once again feature the finest works of art produced by our students,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Part-Time Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “The artistic expressions are extremely individualized and reflect the unique creative ability of each student artist, which will certainly delight exhibit attendees.”

Owens students displaying artwork include Tabitha Adams of Bowling Green, Dana Almester of Rossford, Destiny Arquette of Toledo, George Asay of Toledo, Rich Ball of Toledo, Rob Borer of Toledo, Mike Budyka of Perrysburg, Cindi Butler of Toledo, Katie Callahan of Oak Harbor, Maureen Cook of Waterville, Nathan Daulbaugh of Toledo, Katherine Davis of Toledo, Jore Degollado of Perrysburg, Emily Domalski of Sylvania, Sarah Donnelly of Bowling Green, Jessica Ellerbrock of Leipsic, Amy Everett of Millbury, Katie Ferguson of Toledo, Corey Fry of Toledo, Brandon Freeman of Toledo, Sara Golbinec of Toledo, Cherie Guthrie of Waterville, Matt Hamilton of Toledo, Jen Hannum of Holland, Deb Helwig of Delta, Amanda Hertzfeld of Waterville, Shailyn Hill of Deshler, Jerry Isom of Toledo, Matt Johnson of Holland, Kaitlin Kern of Rossford, Mark Kowalski of Perrysburg, Patrick Kurtz of Toledo, Jim Lohman of Toledo, Christi Materni of Oregon, Michael Matuszanski of Toledo, Rory McDonnell of Toledo, Josh Nagal of Toledo, Laura Norden of Oregon, Tyler Oberhouse of Luckey, Eunyoung Oh of Perrysburg, Taylor Palicki of Maumee, Michael Pettengill of Oregon, Kyle Randolph of Perrysburg, Michael Rashid of Toledo, Sara Recknagel of Toledo, Katrina Roberts of Toledo, Jeremy Rose of Toledo, Nancy Sams of Toledo, Kevin Scott of Perrysburg, Derik Smith of Sylvania, Joshua Smith of Toledo, Chrystal Terry of Toledo, Samantha Tolson of Toledo, Laura Traxler of Toledo, Kathie Vanness of Bowling Green, Brian White of Perrysburg and Evan Willee of Toledo.

Owens’ Juried Student Art Exhibition features 97 pieces of artwork in the categories of fine art, photography and commercial art. Fifty-seven students enrolled within Fine and Performing Arts courses at Owens have had their artwork accepted for the show. Area artists and professionals served as the jury for the exhibit.

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

Owens’ Community Terrace View Café Announces Advanced Baking Dessert Buffet, April 13

Posted on April 6th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to experience an array of amazing foods in the form of decadent desserts at the Owens Community College Terrace View Café as students within the culinary arts program’s Baking and Pastry II class present an advanced baking dessert buffet on Wednesday, April 13.

The Baking and Pastry II class will open the College’s student-run Terrace View Café to the public as attendees will have the opportunity to partake of an assortment of homemade, made-from-scratch dessert items, including milk and dark chocolate dipped hazelnut-infused fresh strawberries, cream puffs filled with pomegranate Bavarian cream, raspberry macarons filled with chocolate ganache, strawberry pate de fruit, white and dark Swiss rocher, variety topped mini cheesecakes, mocha truffles and French vanilla petit fours.

The advanced baking dessert buffet will take place from 4-6 p.m. in the College’s Terrace View Café, which is located in College Hall Room 148 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens’ restaurant is coordinated by the Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Department.

The Owens culinary arts program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the rapidly growing culinary arts industry. Both the associate’s degree and certificate prepares students for food preparation positions in restaurants, hotels, health care facilities, resorts and country clubs. The Baking and Pastry II class is designed to provide students with experiential learning related to advanced fundamental baking techniques. Classroom instruction also includes the examination of taste, baking and pastry techniques, ingredients and spices.

The cost per person, which includes unlimited trips to the buffet, is only $6 and reservations are required. Additionally, takeouts are available as guests may purchase individually priced items or variety boxes. Reservations can be made by calling (567) 661-7359 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7359. Individuals can also make a reservation by accessing the College’s website at www.owens.edu/terrace.

Owens Community College Students Lend Helping Hand to High School Students With Prom Dress Extravaganza Event, April 9

Posted on April 4th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area high school students and their families searching for that hard-to-find prom dress and accompanying accessories at minimal cost are invited to visit Owens Community College this coming weekend as the Raising Awareness Club presents its first-ever Prom Dress Extravaganza on Saturday, April 9.

The Prom Dress Extravaganza will take place from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to the event is free and open to the public.

During the event, high school students and their families will have the opportunity to select from an assortment of over 375 prom dresses and accessories for minimal cost ranging from $5-20 for dresses and 50 cents to $5 for accessories. Featured items available for purchase will be gently used dresses, shoes, purses, gloves and jewelry, among other prom accessories.

Additionally, shopping mentors will be on hand to assist individuals in their shopping experience. Owens students will also provide prom dress alterations free of charge during the event.

According to Jessica Thornton, Owens Raising Awareness Club President and student, the community’s outpouring of support toward the Prom Dress Drive and the Prom Dress Extravaganza has been amazing.

“The number of prom dresses and accessories that the community donated to this event has far exceeded the Raising Awareness Club’s expectations,” said Thornton. “We have already had several individuals inquire about purchasing dresses. Once again, our goal is to ensure that every student is able to receive a special high school prom experience and that financial means is not a barrier.”

Any items not claimed during the Prom Dress Extravaganza will be donated to Camp Courageous near Whitehouse. All proceeds raised from the prom dress initiative will be used to benefit future community outreach activities for the Raising Awareness Club.

Owens’ Raising Awareness Club was recently founded with the overall purpose of raising awareness about an array of issues and causes. Comprised of Owens students, employees and alumni, the group is committed to advocating for the acceptance of cultural differences, global unity, disability awareness and various needs that impact the surrounding communities.

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

Owens and BGSU Students to Raise Homeless Awareness During Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City, April 7-8

Posted on April 4th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College and Bowling Green State University students will spend a night under the stars to raise homeless awareness as part of Owens’ sixth annual Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City on Thursday, April 7.

Beginning at 4 p.m., Owens and Bowling Green students will spend 17 consecutive hours camping out on the College’s courtyard lawn between Health Technologies Hall and College Hall on the Toledo-area Campus. The goal of the sleep out is to make more people aware of homelessness occurring in the surrounding communities and to collect basic “snack food” items to benefit Rainbow Area Youth in Toledo. The event will conclude at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 8.

“Homelessness does not discriminate and can happen to anyone at anytime,” said Nicole Lance, Owens Student Activities Assistant and Raising Awareness Club Advisor and Bowling Green student. “The Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City project allows individuals to experience what it’s like to be homeless. One group in which homelessness is extremely prevalent is within gay and lesbian youth. I encourage area residents to help in the fight against homelessness by making a donation to benefit the Rainbow Area Youth organization.”

Owens students and employees and community members are encouraged to show their support by dropping off basic “snack food” items. Desired items include chips, crackers, animal crackers, popcorn, pretzels, Pop-Tarts, granola bars, water, pop and juices boxes, as well as plastic utensils and paper/plastic cups and plates. Donations can be dropped off on the College’s courtyard lawn between Health Technologies Hall and College Hall during the Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City event.

Rainbow Area Youth (RAY) is a peer based support group created to provide emotional support, social opportunities and health education to sexual minority teens in the Toledo area. The organization’s goal is to help prevent the spread of HIV and reduce the rate of self-destructive behaviors, including self-mutilation, drug abuse and suicide in the gay youth population, and to provide a positive environment for personal growth.

Owens’ Sleep Out for the Homeless Tent City event is being coordinated by the College’s Raising Awareness Club and the Gay-Straight Alliance Club. For more information about the event, including donation information, call (567) 661-2569 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2569.

Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts and Students Present ‘Tartuffe,’ April 8-9 and 15-17

Posted on March 31st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Drama and suspense will serve as the theatrical focus in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ Mainstage Theatre as Owens Community College presents the student production of “Tartuffe,” April 8-9 and 15-17.

The first of several performances will occur at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 8 in the College’s Mainstage Theatre. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is excited to present such an extremely well-known theatrical production, featuring the talents of so many Owens students,” said Dr. Doug Mead, Owens Chair of Fine and Performing Arts. “‘Tartuffe’ was written by arguably France’s most celebrated comic playwrights in Moliere. Attendees will certainly enjoy the ever-changing storyline, which is full of many surprises.”

Written by Moliere, “Tartuffe” tells the story about how a pious imposter almost succeeds in his plot to jail a naÔve friend and his family and thereby cheat them out of their home. Internationally recognized as one of the classic comedies of the French theatre, the production mercilessly examines the evil that men can commit in the guise of religious fervor and the dangers that imperil those who would believe only what they choose to believe.

The cast of “Tartuffe” is comprised of students and alumni from Owens and the theatrical production is directed by Owens Instructor of Fine and Performing Arts Jeremy Meier. Owens alumna Catherine Bonham of Ottawa will serve as dramaturg, while Owens students Evan Koontz of Lincoln, Neb., and Diane Schroeder of Sylvania will hold the positions of stage manager and assistant stage manager, respectively.

Students involved in the production as cast members include Megan Wasserman of Clyde, Deidra Gehr of Toledo, Matthew Johnston of Maumee, Zack Doane of Bowling Green, Jordan Jarvis of Perrysburg, Mallory Myers of Whitehouse, Andy Sweney of Perrysburg, John Toth of Toledo, Staci McMillan of Dundee, Mich., Rachael Mendieta of Bowling Green, John Stewart of Maumee and Esteban Vega of Toledo.

“Tartuffe” will be performed April 8-9 and 15-16 at 7:30 p.m. A matinee performance will also occur on Sunday, April 17 at 3 p.m.

Tickets are $12 for the general public and $8 for Owens students and employees. All seats are general admission. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information, call the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. ARTS (2787).

Owens Express Golf Opens Season With Home Invite, April 1

Posted on March 31st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College golf will make its 2011 season debut by hosting its annual Owens Invitational on Friday, April 1. Teams competing in the invitational are Lourdes College, Mott Community College, Jackson Community College and Oakland Community College.

The invitational will begin at 11 a.m. and take place at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Owens’ home intercollegiate golf events will occur at Belmont Country Club and admission to all Express golf events is free and open to the public.

Owens’ golf program is guided by fifth-year Head Coach Gil Guerrero. The Express golf team captured one match and invitational title during the 2010 season, highlighted by a second-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program also finished second in the NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional Championship after rounds of 333-307 (640) at Belmont Country Club. Additionally, Owens placed seventh in the NJCAA Region XII Golf Championship.

“Our golf team is extremely young with only two veterans returning from last year,” stated Guerrero. “However, I am really excited about this year’s group of student-athletes as they extremely hard workers. Each individual is very unselfish and willing to do whatever it takes for the team to succeed. I expect improvement to occur throughout the season and to compete for the conference title.”

The golf program has two players returning from last year’s team, including Brooks Gardner of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.) and Lee Schmidlin of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.).

In 2010, Gardner, a sophomore, earned Second Team OCCAC All-Conference honors and compiled an 82.7 scoring average. He also was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection. Schmidlin is a sophomore and compiled an 88.1 scoring average for the Express last year. His postseason honors included OCCAC Academic All-Conference recognition.

First-year players to the Express golf program are Kyle Anderson of Monroe, Mich. (St. Mary Catholic Central H.S.), Brian Brumenshenkel of Maumee (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Louis Fahrbach of Northwood (Northwood H.S.), Greg Hermes of Maumee (Maumee H.S.), Kevin Hoyle of Maumee (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Casey Lawless of Orillia, Canada (Patrick Fogarty Secondary School) and Kyle Simmons of Millbury (Genoa H.S.).

Owens Community College Recognizes Employees For Excellence in Higher Education

Posted on March 31st, 2011

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

Recipients for the 2010-11 academic year are:

Barbara Rardin of Rossford, Manager of Human Resources Information (Exemplary Employee Award)
Tracy Campbell of Swanton, Chair of Transportation Technologies (Exemplary Administrator Award)

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

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

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

Owens Community College to Host Annual Lincoln Motorsports Welding Night, April 7

Posted on March 29th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College’s School of Technology, the Northwest Ohio Chapter of the American Welding Society and Lincoln Electric Motorsports are inviting area racing car and truck enthusiasts to the Toledo-area Campus to view an array of competition vehicles and learn more about careers within the welding and automotive industry at the fifteenth annual Lincoln Motorsports Welding Night on Thursday, April 7.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Express Softball Opens Home Season Against Lorain County Community College, March 30

Posted on March 29th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s softball will open its 2011 home season against Lorain County Community College on Wednesday, March 30. The game will begin at 3:30 p.m.

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

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

Express women’s softball completed the 2010 season with a 31-16 overall record and captured its eighth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (8-0 record) title in the program’s history. Owens has won five out of the last six OCCAC regular season championships (2005, 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2010). The Express lost to Muskegon Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Early in the 2011 season, Owens has compiled a 10-0 overall record following games played in South Carolina and a pair of victories against Heidelberg University Junior Varsity.

“I am extremely optimistic about this year’s team and how the season has gone up until this point,” said Lanham. “This team is committed to getting better every day they set foot on the softball diamond. We have a lot of depth in pitching and very strong hitting. We are very happy with our early season success, but certainly not satisfied. Our goal is to defend our conference title and play well in the postseason.”

Owens has 10 players returning from last year’s championship team, including Ashleigh Whitacre of Toledo (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.) and Annie DeTray of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.).

In 2010, Whitacre, a sophomore outfielder, was named First Team OCCAC All-Conference and the league’s Player of the Year. She collected 30 hits, scored 25 runs, had 12 RBIs and compiled a .268 batting average. Whitacre also earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors. DeTray is a sophomore infielder and was named First Team OCCAC All-Conference last season. She recorded 18 hits, had 14 RBIs and scored 11 runs for the Express.

Lanham’s squad also returns Lindsey Bandeen of Holland (Springfield H.S.), Elizabeth Weber of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.) and Matea Rice of Oregon (Clay H.S.). Bandeen, a sophomore infielder, scored 24 runs, had 28 RBIs and compiled a .410 batting average. She was named the team’s Offensive Player of the Year and earned NJCCA Region XII All-Tournament team honors. Weber is a sophomore pitcher. She compiled a 7-2 record and a 3.67 earned run average last year. Rice, a sophomore infielder, collected 15 hits and 10 RBIs in 2010.

Returning sophomore student-athletes to the Owens team also include Kelley Molloy of Toledo, outfield (Whitmer H.S.); Bridget Wolfe of Bellevue, catcher (Bellevue H.S.); Courtney Parr of Castalia, pitcher (Margaretta H.S.); Morgan Gray of Clyde, outfield (Clyde H.S.), and Courtney Mowery of Genoa, outfield (Genoa H.S.).

First-year players to the Express women’s softball program are Tabitha Britt of Maumee, outfield (Maumee H.S.); Sydney Barron of Monroe, Mich., infield (Jefferson H.S.); Tayler Redinger of Fremont, infield (Fremont Ross H.S.); Kristen Shock of Sylvania, catcher (Sylvania Northview H.S.); Allison Hausch of Bryan, catcher (Bryan H.S.); Hallie Thompson of Oregon, infield (Clay H.S.), and Ashlyn Michalak of Holland, pitcher (Springfield H.S.).

Express first-year players also include Kristen Roznoski of Toledo, outfield (Cardinal Stritch H.S.); Jordan Ratliff of Petersburg, Mich., pitcher (Summerfield H.S.); Kasey Graham of Oregon, pitcher (Clay H.S.); Michelle Hollister of Newport, Mich., infield (Airport H.S.), and Alaina Haubert of Gibsonburg, infield (Gibsonburg H.S.).

Owens Community College Students to Host Fourth Annual Quiz Bowl Invitational, April 2

Posted on March 28th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Colleges and universities throughout the Midwest will converge in Perrysburg Township to test their mental capacity and intellectual skills as Owens Community College serves as host to the fourth annual academic Quiz Bowl Invitational on Saturday, April 2.

Presented by the College’s Office of Student Activities and the Owens Trivia Club, the competition will occur from 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. in Founders Hall. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Competing quiz bowl programs will include Owens, Bowling Green State University, Miami University, Case Western Reserve University, McMaster University, University of Toronto, University of Louisville and the University of Pittsburgh. The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Teams, comprising three to six students, will compete against each other in a round-robin format invitational. At the conclusion of round-robin matches, each group will compete in two additional quiz bowl playoff matches to determine the Owens Quiz Bowl Invitational champion.

As part of the competition, each team will have the opportunity to correctly answer as many questions as possible in the 25-minute timed matches. Correct answers will result in 10 or 15 points being earned per team followed by a bonus question worth a maximum of 30 points.

All questions, which will be verbally communicated to teams via moderator, will focus on academic areas consistent with curriculum taught at the collegiate level. Among the categories are science, fine arts, geography, literature and history, as well as a few select questions related to popular culture and sports. In order to answer a question, participants must attempt to buzz in prior to their competition.

Owens Quiz Bowl Invitational questions are sanctioned by National Academic Quiz Tournaments (NAQT) LLC, which organizes high school and collegiate national quiz bowl championships throughout North America. Over 60 colleges and universities are affiliated with the national organization.

For more information about the upcoming Owens Quiz Bowl Invitational, call (567) 661-2075 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext 2075.

Owens Community College Welcomes Nationally Known Author Jenny Boylan, March 31

Posted on March 28th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to gain insight into the personal story of Jenny Boylan and her life in two genders as Owens Community College welcomes the nationally acclaimed author to the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses on Thursday, March 31.

Her lecture presentation, which will detail issues of gender, identity and the relationship between an individual’s physical and intuitive self, will take place at 9:30 a.m. in College Hall Room 100 on the Toledo-area Campus and at 2 p.m. in the Conference Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township and the Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Road in Findlay. Admission to the lecture presentations is free and open to the public.

Boylan is that author of 11 books, which includes three novels, a collection of short stories, two memoirs and five young adult books, four of them written under a pseudonym. Her memoir “She’s Not There” was one of the first bestselling works by a transgendered American; until 2001 she published under the named James Boylan. “She’s Not There” has become popular both as a textbook in high schools and colleges as well as with reader’s groups and tells the story of life in two genders. Her literary work has garnered national recognition, including an award from the Lambda Literary Foundation and a Legacy Award from the University of Massachusetts.

Boylan has been a frequent guest on a number of national television and radio programs, including three visits to the “Oprah Winfrey Show”. She has also appeared on the “Larry King Show”, “The Today Show”, “Barbara Walters Special” and been the subject of a documentary on CBS News’ “48 Hours”. In 2007, she played herself on two episodes of ABC’s “All My Children”. Additionally, Boylan has spoken widely around the country on gender and imagination highlighted by appearances at the National Press Club and the New Jersey State Theatre.

Since 1988, Boylan has taught in the academic areas of creative writing and American literature at Colby College in Waterville, Maine. She was promoted to the rank of full Professor in 2001 and was chosen by students as the Charles Walker Bassett Professor of the Year in 2000. At Colby, she has served as Co-Chair of English, Director of Creative Writing and Associate Chair of English.

Prior to teaching at Colby, Boylan served as the Managing Editor of the “American Bystander” magazine. The Valley Forge native earned a bachelor’s degree from Wesleyan University and a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University.

Boylan’s appearance is being sponsored by the College’s Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, the Office of Student Activities, Student Government, School of Arts and Sciences, the Social Work Club and the Gay-Straight Alliance Club. For more information about the lecture presentations, call (567) 429-3029 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3029.

Owens Community College Students to Host Chili Cook-Off Cancer Awareness Fundraising Event, March 31

Posted on March 25th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to put their taste buds to the test as Owens Community College’s Raising Awareness Club hosts its first-ever Chili Cook-Off cancer awareness fundraising event on Thursday, March 31.

The Chili Cook-Off will occur from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The cost to attend is $3 per person, which includes a tasting kit and all-you-can-eat chili. The Chili Cook-Off is open to the campus community as well as the general public.

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

Proceeds raised from the Chili Cook-Off will benefit testicular cancer awareness and research through LIVESTRONG and the International Testicular Cancer Foundation.

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

Owens Community College to Host ‘Leading Your Best Life’ Women’s Seminar, April 2

Posted on March 24th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area women interested in enhancing their quality of life from a personal leadership, financial and wellness perspective are invited to visit Owens Community College as the academic institution hosts its first-ever “Leading Your Best Life” women’s seminar on Saturday, April 2. The public is encouraged to join the campus community for a variety of guest speakers and educational awareness programs.

Sponsored by KeyBank and the Owens Leadership Academy team Women Organizing Resources Toward Hope (WORTH), the “Leading Your Best Life” women’s seminar will occur from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Room 125 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. All events and activities are free and open to the public.

Activities will commence at 9:15 a.m. with welcome remarks and the seminar keynote address by Owens Interim Dean of the School of Business Dr. Gretchen Carroll titled “Leadership Lessons for Living Your Best Life”. The lecture presentation will be followed by two 45-minute breakout sessions on a variety of topics focused on improving one’s quality of life, including physical health and nutrition, emotional and spiritual wellness, financial wellness and dealing with stress. Guests speakers for the breakout sessions are St. Peter’s United Church of Christ Interim Pastor and Part-time Instructor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Winebrenner Theological Seminary Kathryn Helleman, Owens Professor of Food, Nutrition and Hospitality Mary Beck, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Jami Garmon, KeyBank Key@work Coordinator Donna Schroyer-Riesen and Dr. Carroll.

In addition to the series of presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to receive a variety of information, products and resources from community organizations related to enhancing one’s quality of life, as well as participate in free blood pressure screenings, chair massages and bone density scans. Community organizations on hand will include Women Blessing Women, KeyBank, Avon Products Inc., Mary Kay Inc., Thirty-One Gifts, Bay Park Community Hospital, Soroptimist Club, YMCA, Owens Student Nursing Association and Pampered Chef, among others. Over 30 door prizes will be given away during the event.

Attendees are also encouraged to bring a non-perishable food and/or toiletry item to the event. All collected items will be donated to a local pantry or shelter to assist in their community outreach efforts.

For additional information about the women’s seminar, call (567) 661-2693 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2693.

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

Posted on March 24th, 2011

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

High school seniors can sign up for any day of Registration Rocks which runs from 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Attendees are required to RSVP prior to the event. Registration Rocks dates include March 29 and April 6, 8, 13, 19, 20 and 27.

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

Throughout each day, students will be able to meet with an advisor, tour campus, complete the new student orientation and pick up important information about financial aid, clubs and student activities, local housing and academic program offerings. In addition, a separate program on learning to support your children in college will be offered to parents who attend Registration Rocks.

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

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

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

Posted on March 23rd, 2011

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

High school seniors can sign up for any day of Registration Rocks which runs from 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on the College’s Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay. Attendees are required to RSVP prior to the event. Registration Rocks dates include March 30 and April 5, 7, 12, 13, 19 and 21.

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

For more information, or to register, call (567) 429-3509 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3509. Or, check out the website at www.owens.eduand click on the Registration Rocks icon.

Green Roofs and Sustainability Expert Dr. Brad Rowe to Provide Free Talk at Owens Community College, March 30

Posted on March 23rd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in gaining insight into the understanding of green roofs and their impact on minimizing the effects on urbanization and the environment are invited to a free lecture featuring nationally-known green roofs and sustainability expert Dr. Brad Rowe at Owens Community College on Wednesday, March 30.

Sponsored by the College’s Landscape and Turfgrass Management Program, Rowe’s lecture presentation is titled “The Importance of Green Roofs and Sustainability in Today’s Society” and will occur at 1 p.m. in the Industrial and Engineering Technologies building Room 109 on the Toledo-area Campus. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

“Owens Community College’s Landscape and Turfgrass Management Program is excited to provide area residents with the opportunity to hear a nationally-known expert present on green roof technology and the impact it has had from an ecological and economic perspective,” said Matt Ross, Owens faculty member who teaches the College’s Urban Horticulture and Sustainability class. “Dr. Brad Rowe’s lecture will share insight into the concept, design and research specific to this cutting-edge technology.”

Rowe serves as a Professor in the Department of Horticulture at Michigan State University and was instrumental in the creation and current overall direction of the academic institution’s green research program. He has conducted a significant amount of research in the areas of propagation and production of landscape plants and their proper use in the landscape, with specific emphasis on green roof technology. His research has appeared in such publications as “Environmental Science and Technology”, “Urban Forestry and Urban Greening” and “HortScience”, among many others.

For his extensive work in green roof technology, Rowe was honored with the GRHS Excellence in Research Award in 2008. His accomplishments also include assisting in the design and installation of the world’s largest green roof at Ford Motor Company’s Truck Assembly Plant in Dearborn, Mich. In addition to his research, Rowe currently teaches academic courses at Michigan State in plant propagation, landscape construction, landscape contract management and sustainable landscape practices, among other areas.

For additional information about the lecture presentation, call (567) 661-7623 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7623.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery Welcomes ‘Mother Goose’ Illustrations Exhibit, March 31 – April 22

Posted on March 23rd, 2011

Owens Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery will feature several original illustrations in the "Mother Goose" exhibition, including Cheryl Harness' illustration from her book "The Night-Light Mother Goose".

FINDLAY, OH – Owens Community College welcomes the return of the University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum to the Findlay-area Campus with original illustrations from children’s books featuring Mother Goose and friends as the Library Gallery presents “Mother Goose: Illustrations from the Mazza Museum”, March 31 – April 22.

The Owens Findlay-area Campus Library is located on Bright Road in Findlay.

“Owens Community College’s Findlay-area Campus is delighted to have the University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum return to the Library Gallery,” said Gail McCain, Owens Library Manager for the Findlay-area Campus. “The Mazza Museum is committed to helping children develop an interest in reading and literacy, as well as in preserving original artwork from children’s literature. This exhibit showcases the work of some of the most well-known children’s illustrators of our time, which is sure to delight Gallery visitors of all ages.”

The University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum was founded in 1982 and is the world’s first and largest museum devoted to the art of children’s picture books. Since its inception, the museum has collected over 5,000 original pieces from children’s literature. The goal of the Mazza Museum is to promote literacy among children, as well as to collect, exhibit and preserve original artwork from children’s picture books.

Twenty children’s book illustrations are featured in the “Mother Goose” exhibit to include “Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater” by Marcia Sewall, “The Three Little Kittens” by Cyndy Szekeres, “Mary Had a Little Lamb” by Tomie dePaola and “As I Was Going to Newbury” by Wendy Watson.

The Findlay-area Campus “Mother Goose” exhibit is being presented in conjunction with the celebration of April as Month of the Young Child. In addition, the exhibit is designed to encourage children to take interest in literacy and libraries as the College recognizes National Library Week, April 10-16.

Owens Student Group Raises Environmental Awareness During Fifth Annual Environmental Fair, March 24

Posted on March 22nd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will bring environmental awareness to the forefront as the Owens Environmental Club hosts its fifth annual Environmental Fair on Thursday, March 24. The public is encouraged to join the campus community in celebrating the importance of the environment through the various activities.

More than a dozen environmental organizations are scheduled to participate in the fair, which will be held from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Rotunda. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Environmental Fair participants include the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, Metroparks of the Toledo Area, Nature’s Nursery, Toledo Botanical Garden, Toledo GROWs, Mid-Wood Inc., Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments, Partners for Clean Streams, Naturally Native Nursery and Toledo Farmers Market, among others. In addition, several campus groups and organizations, including the Owens Environmental Club, Owens Student Government and Owens Landscape and Turfgrass Crew Club, will host informational tables.

Additionally, the Owens Environmental Club and Owens Student Government will be distributing free reusable hard plastic bottles to those in attendance. Individuals will be able to use the plastic bottles at the College’s various dining locations as well as receive a discount on drink purchases for their environmental conservation efforts.

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.

Free food and refreshments will be available to event attendees. For additional information about Owens’ Environmental Fair activities, call (567) 661-7583 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7583.

Owens Announces Motorcycle Safety Training Classes for Upcoming Spring, Summer and Fall Months

Posted on March 22nd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area motorcycle enthusiasts interested in enhancing their knowledge about safe driving are invited to enroll in upcoming Motorcycle Safety Training classes offered through Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services. The classes will occur during the months March through October.

The College’s Motorcycle Safety Training is the only basic motorcycle-rider course offered in Wood County and is one of only 20 permanent training locations in Ohio. Owens’ motorcycle safety training is a three-day course, which occurs on Thursday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays. Initial classes will take place Thursday-Sunday, March 24-27.

The Motorcycle Safety Training class requires 16 hours of coursework. Four hours will occur within a classroom at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee. Classroom topics will include introduction to motorcycling, preparing to ride and street strategies. The final 12 hours will be held as part of practice riding sessions at Owens’ 250 feet by 500 feet defensive driving pad adjacent to the Fire Science and Law Enforcement Center in Perrysburg Township. The practice riding sessions will feature educational training within the areas of motorcycle familiarization, limited-space maneuvers, using the friction zone, negotiating curves, obstacles and lane changes, avoiding hazards and matching gears to speed, among other topics.

Attendees will be provided with motorcycles, helmets and a student workbook. Individuals must show proof of a Motorcycle Endorsement on their driver’s license or a valid Temporary Motorcycle permit in order to participate in the course.

In its first four years at Owens, the Motorcycle Safety Training class has trained over 1,700 individuals during the spring, summer and fall months.

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

Posted on March 21st, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Students Lend Helping Hand to High School Students With First-Ever Prom Dress Drive, March 21-31

Posted on March 17th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College students are reaching out to high school girls to ensure that they are able to receive a special high school prom experience by hosting the first-ever Prom Dress Drive, March 21-31.

The Prom Dress Drive is being coordinated by the College’s Raising Awareness Club. Beginning Monday, March 21, Owens students will accept various gently used prom-specific items, including dresses, shoes, purses, gloves and jewelry, among other prom accessories. The donation drive will run through March 31.

“We really want to help area high school students and ensure that their prom is a special experience,” said Jessica Thornton, Owens Raising Awareness Club President and student. “There are many students who do not have the financial means to attend their high school prom. We do not want that to be the case. I encourage area residents and Owens employees and students to assist in making sure the prom is a memorable day for everyone and donate to the Prom Dress Drive.”

Following the Prom Dress Drive initiative, the Raising Awareness Club will host the academic institution’s first Prom Dress Extravaganza for high school students and their families on Saturday, April 9. During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase prom dresses and accessories for minimal cost ranging from $5-20 for dresses and 50 cents to $5 for accessories. Shopping mentors will be on hand to assist individuals in their shopping experience. Additionally, Owens students will provide prom dress alterations free of charge during the event. Owens’ Prom Dress Extravaganza will take place from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center gymnasium.

All prom donations can be dropped off in the Office of Student Activities Room 165 at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

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

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

Posted on March 17th, 2011

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

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

Owens Findlay-area Campus to Host Community Blood Drive, March 24

Posted on March 16th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents are encouraged to help in saving lives as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus and the American Red Cross host a community Blood Drive on Thursday, March 24.

The Blood Drive will occur from 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. in Conference Center Room 111 on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens’ Findlay-area Campus is located on Bright Roadin Findlay.

Donors will be provided snacks and drinks before and after their donation. For more information, call 1-800-828-1975. Interested parties are encouraged to make an appointment by registering on the website at www.redcrossblood.org and entering the sponsor code OWENSCCFINDLAY or calling the above number.

Owens Community College to Host Open Forum on Egypt, March 17

Posted on March 16th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in gaining insight into the dramatic events that took place in Egypt and its impact on the world landscape are invited to attend a free Open Forum on Egypt at Owens Community College on Thursday, March 17.

The event is being is being presented by the College’s Office of International Programs and Services and the School of Arts and Sciences. Owens’ open forum will begin at 2 p.m. in College Hall Room 100 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Among the five individuals comprising the open forum panel are Egyptian native and Owens Associate Professor of English Dr. Mohammed Elnahal and Owens international students from Egypt Amr Gamal, Michael Markos, Waleed Said and Sayed Ahmed. Topics addressed by the panelists will include a historical overview of Egypt, personal accounts of living in Egypt, the revolution in Egypt, the role that social media played in the Egyptian revolution and observations of the Egyptian revolution while living in the United States. Additionally, the group will share insights from their own experiences and what the future holds for Egypt.

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

For more information about the event, contact the College’s Office of International Programs and Services at (567) 661-2773 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2773.

Owens Express Baseball Reschedules Home Opener Against Ashland University JVs for March 17

Posted on March 16th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s baseball home opening game originally scheduled for March 16 against Ashland University JVs will occur on Thursday, March 17. The game will begin at 3 p.m.

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

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

Owens Express Baseball Opens Home Season Against Ashland University JVs, March 16

Posted on March 15th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s baseball will open its 2011 home season against Ashland University JVs on Wednesday, March 16. The game will begin at 3 p.m.

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

Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2010 season with a 35-20 overall record and in third place in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (4-8 record). The Express lost to Vincennes University in the NJCAA Region XII Baseball Championships.

Early in the 2011 season, Owens has a compiled a 9-1 overall record following games played in South Carolina. The Owens baseball program is guided by Head Coach Del Young. His Assistant Coaches are Gabe Medina and Scott Tesluck.

“I am very pleased with how the team has progressed early in the season” said Young. “We played extremely well during our spring trip. Everyone has contributed to our early season success as we have received timely hitting and quality outings from our pitchers. We have five veteran returners from last year’s team and I am expecting them to provide leadership for the first-year student-athletes both on and off the field.”

Young added, “Our expectations are very high as we look to compete for a conference championship.”

The Express has five players returning from last year’s team, including Blake Schmenk of Perrysburg (Perrysburg H.S.), Jesse Solomon of Huber Heights (Wayne H.S.) and Garrett Busch of Toledo (Anthony Wayne H.S.). In 2010, Schmenk, a sophomore outfielder and pitcher, was named the recipient of the team’s Coaches Award. He collected 38 hits and 33 RBIs and compiled a .355 batting average. In addition, Schmenk posted a 2-2 pitching record and a 3.00 earned run average. Solomon, a sophomore shortstop, collected 34 hits, 31 runs and 31 RBIs and compiled a .327 batting average. Busch is a sophomore catcher and pitcher and was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection. In 2010, he posted a 1-1 record with a 4.38 earned run average and one save. At the plate, Busch hit .364 and totaled 24 hits and 14 RBIs.

Owens baseball also returns Austin Gunn of Delta (Delta H.S.) and Matt Hayes of Pickerington (Pickerington H.S. North). Gunn, a sophomore infielder, totaled 24 runs and seven stolen bases. Hayes is a sophomore third basemen and outfielder. In 2010, he collected 27 hits, 25 runs and had 15 RBIs.

First-year players to the Express men’s baseball program are Titus Pierce of Racine, pitcher (Eastern H.S.); Joe Sickler of Bowling Green, infield (Bowling Green H.S.); Zak Esposito of Sandusky, pitcher (Sandusky H.S.); Nate Miceli of Berea, outfield (Berea H.S.); Tyler Brown-Lewis of Shaker Heights, infield and outfield (Shaker Heights H.S.); Daniel Heatherly of Trenton, Mich., infield and pitcher (Trenton H.S.); Danny Schira of Vevay, Ind., infield and outfield (Switzerland County H.S.); James Moore Jr. of Farmington Hills, Mich., infield (Southfield-Lathrup H.S.); Kelley Wagner of Brownstown, Ind., pitcher (Brownstown Central H.S.); Shawn Downey of Martinsville, Ind., pitcher (Martinsville H.S.); Scott Robinson of Akron, pitcher and first base (Coventry H.S.); Kacy Dwornik of Maumee, pitcher (St. John’s Jesuit H.S.); Jeff Davis of Toledo, pitcher (St. Francis de Sales H.S.); Shane Powell of Gibralter, Mich., catcher (Carlson H.S.); Travis Tackett of Vevay, Ind., catcher and first base (Switzerland County H.S.); Ryan Hotmer of Toledo, pitcher and first base (Lake H.S.); Michael Louis of Parma, outfield (Normandy H.S.); Andy Joseph of Sylvania, pitcher (Sylvania Southview H.S.); Jordan Basinger of Kalida, pitcher (Kalida H.S.), and Andrew Poland of Toledo, infield (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.).

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

Posted on March 14th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College to Host First-Ever Fine and Performing Arts Networking Fair, March 18

Posted on March 14th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents and high school students are invited to learn about careers within fine and performing arts as Owens Community College hosts its first-ever Fine and Performing Arts Networking Fair on Friday, March 18.

The fine and performing arts event will occur from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. All activities are free and the public is encouraged to attend.

“Owens Community College’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts is excited to serve as host to a free community event in which individuals can meet and network with leading professionals within the fine and performing arts, asking them questions concerning their professions and how to go about choosing a career,” said Dr. Doug Mead, Owens Chair of Fine and Performing Arts.

Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with professionals from around the region in areas specific to commercial art, dance, fine art, interior design, music, photography and theatre. Organizations on hand from the fine and performing arts community will include the Professional Photographers of Northwest Ohio, Teri Studios, H.O.T. Printing and Graphics, Commerce Paper Co., Great Lakes Sound Inc., Zeta Recording, Craig’s Pianos and Keyboards, Owens Office of Marketing and Communications, Glassmen Drum and Music Corp., Award-Winning Independent Film-Maker, Lamplight Productions, American Society of Media Photographers Ohio North Coast Chapter, Kohne Camera and Photo, Collingwood Arts Center and 20 North Gallery.

Beginning at 10:30 a.m., individuals will have the chance to hear from nationally-recognized graphic designer Dustin Hostetler as part of a lecture presentation about the importance of networking from a business and industry perspective in the College’s Mainstage Theatre. Hostetler has worked with an array of companies during his career, including Case-mate, Motorola, Martini and Rossi, MTV Networks and Sims Snowboards.

Owens will have information available for those individuals interested in pursuing a college education. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs through the Department of Fine and Performing Arts, and past graduates from these academic programs have gone on to become studio and journalism photographers, graphic design artists, educators, performing artists, illustrators and actors throughout Northwest Ohio.

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

Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts Welcomes Internationally Known PostSecret Author Frank Warren, March 23

Posted on March 11th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Internationally acclaimed author Frank Warren, creator of the PostSecret Project, will make an appearance in Northwest Ohio to share insight into the postcard and blog phenomenon at Owens Community College as the Center for Fine and Performing Arts presents “PostSecret” on Wednesday, March 23.

Warren’s lecture presentation will take place in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center at 7:30 p.m. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to welcome the highly acclaimed Frank Warren to Northwest Ohio,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Director for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “Mr. Warren is an extremely talented individual and is known internationally for his PostSecret Project, which has positively impacted the lives of thousands by enabling them to share their most private secrets through anonymous postcards. Attendees will certainly enjoy the simplicity of his message as well as the funny and inspiring stories behind the secrets.”

Warren is the creator of the blog phenomenon titled the PostSecret Project, a collection of highly personal and artfully decorated postcards mailed anonymously from around the world that display the soulful secrets people never voice to others. The PostSecret Project originated from a community art project based on the simple concept of asking people to anonymously send a secret on a decorated postcard. Since November 2004, Warren has received more than 400,000 postcards, with secrets spanning from sexual taboos and criminal activity to confessions of secret beliefs, hidden acts of kindness, shocking habits and fear.

He is the author of three books, including “PostSecret: Confessions of Life, Death and God”, and has for garnered national acclaim for his PostSecret.com website and community art project. The website won two Webby Awards and the PostSecret project received a special award from the National Mental Health Association for raising awareness and funds for suicide prevention.

Copies of Warren’s books will be available for purchase during the event. He will also sign copies of his books at the event’s conclusion. Tickets for the lecture are $20 for floor seating and $10 for bleacher seating. Additionally, American Sign Language interpreters will be provided during the presentation.

To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2787.

Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts Presents ‘Anne of Green Gables’, March 20

Posted on March 11th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The classic tale of a young orphan girl whose dauntless spirit transforms her adoptive family will be brought to life at Owens Community College as the Center for Fine and Performing Arts presents “Anne of Green Gables” on Sunday, March 20.

The performance will take place in the College’s Mainstage Theatre at 3 p.m. The Owens Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to present the talents of ArtsPower National Touring Theatre and their own unique version and interpretation of the timeless literary classic ‘Anne of Green Gables’,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Director for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “The performance is sure to delight attendees of all ages as Anne takes them on a journey to find the family she’s always wanted.”

“Anne of Green Gables” is presented by the national touring company ArtsPower National Touring Theatre. The organization was founded in 1985 and has grown into one of America’s premier producers of professional equity theatre for young and family audiences. The organization’s 19 professional touring productions have been seen by nearly seven million people in such nationally-recognized venues as The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

Based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s internationally-known novel “Anne of Green Gables”, the theatre group’s original musical is known nationally for delighting audiences of all ages with its celebration of the power of imagination and the overall message of love and trust. Written and directed by Greg Gunning, “Anne of Green Gables” will feature a rich musical score, beautiful period costumes and imaginative sets.

Additionally, American Sign Language interpreters will be provided during the performance. Tickets for the “Anne of Green Gables” performance are $15 and all seats are general admission. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2787.

Owens to Host Ohio Kids for Creativity Region 10 Tournament, March 12

Posted on March 10th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Over 300 young adults from across Northwest Ohio will have the opportunity to showcase their creative thinking, problem solving and teamwork skills as they compete in the annual Ohio Kids for Creativity Destination ImagiNation Region 10 Tournament at Owens Community College on Saturday, March 12.

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

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

Ohio Kids for Creativity serves as the Ohio affiliate of Destination ImagiNation and consists for 11 separate regions. Region 10 represents Northwest Ohio and comprises Williams, Defiance, Paulding, Van Wert, Fulton, Henry, Putnam, Allen, Lucas, Wood, Hancock, Hardin, Ottawa, Sandusky, Seneca, Wyandot and Crawford counties. Among the schools participating in the competition are Crestline Exempted Village Schools, Pike-Delta-York Local Schools, Ottawa Hills Local Schools, Perkins Local Schools, Swanton Local Schools, Springfield Local Schools, Sylvania Schools, Woodmore Local Schools, Sylvania Franciscan Academy and West Side Montessori Center.

Beginning at 8 a.m., participating teams, consisting of up to seven students, will present their solutions to one of five pre-selected Team Challenges to a panel of judges for the right to advance to the Ohio Tournament at Mount Vernon High School in Mount Vernon, Ohio. Team Challenges focus on a combination of Technical/Mechanical Design, Scientific Exploration and Theater Arts, Improvisation, Structural/Architectural Design, and Theater, Literature and Fine Arts. Teams also incorporate a Side Trip into their competitive Team Challenges, which highlights their special skills and talents. In addition to the Team Challenges, individuals will compete in an Instant Challenge, which requires teams to engage in quick critical thinking with the goal of producing a solution in a period 10 minutes.

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

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

Posted on March 9th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College to Host Community U.S. Passport Processing Day, March 15

Posted on March 9th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents in need of a new U.S. passport are invited to Owens Community College as the academic institution’s Office of International Programs and Services partners with the U.S. Postal Service and hosts a Passport Processing Day on Tuesday, March 15.

Individuals can apply for passports from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the College Hall Atrium on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Owens employees and students, as well as community members, will have the opportunity to have their passport photos taken and complete the application in one central location. The entire process is expected to last approximately 15 minutes and can be accelerated by having the passport application, which is available online at www.state.gov, completed prior to visiting Owens.

Those interested will need to bring a valid driver’s license (or state ID) and their original birth certificate with the raised seal. U.S. Postal Service representatives will process the paper work, take photographs and collect the necessary fees.

The cost of a passport is $150. For more information, contact the College’s Office of International Programs and Services at (567) 661-2773 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2773.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Presents Women’s History Month Panel Discussion, March 15

Posted on March 8th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – Area residents interested in gaining insight into how four women who are leaders in the community overcame obstacles and achieved success in pursuit of personal and professional goals are invited to attend a free women’s history month panel discussion at the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus on Tuesday, March 15.

The panel discussion is being held in conjunction with the College’s ongoing Brown Bag Luncheon series. The presentation will occur from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the College’s Conference Center on the Findlay-area Campus. Owens is located on Bright Road in Findlay. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

Among the four individuals comprising the panel are Stefanie Griffith, Director of Human Resources, Whirlpool Corporation;† Katherine Kreuchauf, President, Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation; Lydia Mihalik, Grant Administrator, Hancock Regional Planning Commission; and Lynn Child, Owner, Aardvark Incorporated. Topics addressed by the panelists will include the challenges facing women in the 21st Century workplace, overcoming obstacles, and recognizing and taking advantage of opportunities. Additionally, the group will share insights from their own experiences, discussing their career paths and how they emerged as leaders in the community.

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

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

Posted on March 8th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on March 7th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local Schools Showcase Talents at Owens Tractor Troubleshooting Contest

Posted on March 3rd, 2011

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

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

A panel of 10 judges, comprising industry representatives and Owens Transportation Technologies faculty, graded each high school in the areas of workmanship as a team, safety practices, problem-solving techniques and identification, and repair of malfunctions to determine a district champion. Additionally, students within the College’s Transportation Technologies assisted with the competition. The top two teams advance to the state championship competition March 10-11 in Lima.

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Announces Spring Advanced LEGO Engineering Program, March 16 – April 6

Posted on March 2nd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area youth in grades four through eight are invited to explore science, mathematics and creative thinking through the use of LEGO materials as Owens Community College’s Workforce and Community Services offers an advanced spring LEGO Engineering Program class, March 16 – April 6.

The spring advanced LEGO Engineering Program class will occur Wednesday evenings from 6-8 p.m. at Owens’ Workforce and Community Services, which is located at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

“Owens Community College is excited to provide continuing education programming that brings science, mathematics and creative thinking alive for children,” said Rhonda Hogrefe, Owens Continuing Education and Community Service Account Representative. “The LEGO Engineering Program promotes team building and allows attendees to think creatively and explore engineering processes, while at the same time having fun.”

Using advanced LEGO parts and pieces, LEGO Engineering class attendees will learn to design and build models through the use of fixed and movable pulleys, gears and gears ratios, levers, wheels, axles, forces and belt drives. The experiential learning activities will use principles related to simple and complex machines as well as gearing and mechanical advantage techniques. Building on the Junior LEGO Engineering class, the advanced educational program will also focus on more intricate projects that use gear mathematics, ratchets, drive trains and motorized systems.

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

The registration cost for the spring LEGO Engineering Program class is $89. For more information, or to register for the class, call (567) 661-7357 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7357.

Internationally Recognized Celtic Blaze to Perform at Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts, March 11

Posted on March 2nd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The sounds of traditional Celtic music and dance interfused with a creative contemporary edge will be showcased in Northwest Ohio as Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts presents the group Celtic Blaze on Friday, March 11.

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

“Celtic Blaze featuring Stephanie Cadman has earned international acclaim for their high energy performances,” said Barbara Barkan, Owens Director for the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. “This delightful group draws from its experience with traditional Celtic music and dance and adds a contemporary edge that is unique and innovative. Attendees will be amazed by the group’s impressive musicianship and joyous blend of Celtic influences and contemporary sensibilities.”

Celtic Blaze is a highly-accomplished group of six performers that has entertained audiences at venues and events across North America with their music, which is often characterized as a rich tapestry of original and modern Celtic traditions. The group is internationally known for blending Stephanie Cadman’s vast talents of Ottawa Valley step dancing and classical and Celtic fiddling with guitar, bass, percussion, piano and marching snare drum to create a unique musical sound and theatrical experience.

Cadman’s extensive professional background in dancing includes tap, Celtic step dancing, ballet and jazz. She has appeared as a dance soloist and fiddler with symphonies throughout North America highlighted by appearances with the Kennedy Center’s National Symphony Orchestra. Cadman was also named the top female performer at the World Tap Dance Championships in Germany at the age of 16 and holds three step dancing titles at the prestigious Pembroke Championships.

In addition to Cadman’s renowned step dancing and fiddling talents, Celtic Blaze features singing and fiddling sensation Miranda Mulholland, James Quinn (guitar), Devin Hornby (bass), Kirk White (percussion) and Brad Fremlin (piano/marching snare drum).

Tickets for Celtic Blaze’s performance are $23 and all seats are general admission. To purchase tickets, visit www.owens.edu or contact the College’s Box Office. For more information about this event, contact the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-2787 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2787.

Owens Community College Offers Spring ACT Preparation Class, March 14 – April 4

Posted on March 1st, 2011

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

The ACT preparation class will occur Monday evenings, March 14 – April 4, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the College’s Arrowhead Park Learning Center on Indian Wood Circle in Maumee.

In addition to offering the ACT preparation class, Owens serves as a host site for the national ACT test. The next testing date after the ACT preparation class is April 9. Prior registration through the ACT organization is required.

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

Owens Community College Toledo-area Campus to Host Northwest Ohio’s Largest College Preview Night, March 9

Posted on March 1st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – More than 100 public and private colleges and universities from Ohio and the surrounding states will visit the Toledo area as Owens Community College hosts Northwest Ohio’s largest College Preview Night on Wednesday, March 9.

Established in 1987, the event will occur from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and is sponsored by the counseling staffs of 21 local high schools and Owens. College tables will be set up in Owens’ Student Health and Activities Center and presentations will be held in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to College Preview Night is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, March 1-5

Posted on March 1st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s basketball team begins its postseason run toward a national title as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII (District I) Women’s Basketball Championship this week, March 1-5.

First round games will take place at campus sites on Tuesday, March 1. The semifinals and finals of the tournament will be held at Edison State Community College in Piqua, Friday-Saturday, March 4-5.

Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, the Express, which received a first round bye, will take a 26-4 overall record into the single elimination tournament where they will play the winner of the Columbus State Community College (12-17)/Sinclair Community College (16-8) game in semifinal action at 12 p.m. on Friday, March 4. If they would advance, the Express would play at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 5 in the championship game.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Edison State Community College (15-10), Cincinnati State Community College (19-10) and Cuyahoga Community College (12-12).

Last week, Owens captured its first Ohio Community College Athletic Conference title (11-1 record) since the 2006-07 campaign. The Express is currently on a 10-game winning streak and is ranked No. 11 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball poll.

The NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball National Championship will be held March 15-19 in East Peoria, Ill.

Owens Express Men’s Basketball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, March 1-5

Posted on February 28th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s basketball team begins its postseason run toward a third national title as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII (District 10) Men’s Basketball Championship this week, March 1-5.

First round games will take place at campus sites on Tuesday, March 1. The semifinals and finals of the tournament will be held at Edison State Community College in Piqua, Friday-Saturday, March 4-5.

Coached by Kevin Skaggs, the Express will take a 10-20 overall record into the single elimination tournament where they will battle Columbus State Community College (23-7) at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1. The game will be played in Lancaster. If they would advance, the Express will play at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 4 against the winner of the Cincinnati State Community College (21-9)/Edison State Community College (11-14) game in the semifinals. The championship game will occur at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 5.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Lakeland Community College (20-10), Sinclair Community College (20-8) and Cuyahoga Community College (16-10).

In addition, Skaggs’ team finished in sixth place in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (3-9 record).

The NJCAA Division II Men’s Basketball National Championship will be held March 15-19 in Danville, Ill.

Owens Center for Fine and Performing Arts to Host First-Ever High School Honors Band Day, March 7

Posted on February 24th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents with a passion and an enjoyment of music are invited to Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts as 55 of region’s finest high school musicians present a High School Honors Band Concert on Monday, March 7.

Presented in conjunction with the Department of Fine and Performing Arts’ first-ever Owens High School Honors Band Day, the concert will begin at 7 p.m. in the Mainstage Theatre. Owens’ Toledo-area Campus is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The performance is free and open to the public.

“Owens Community College’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts is proud to partner with area high schools and provide a day for students to showcase their impressive musical talents,” said Dr. Doug Mead, Owens Chair of Fine and Performing Arts. “Our goal in establishing Owens’ High School Honors Band Day is to allow Northwest Ohio’s young and aspiring musicians to come together, learn from each other and experience the joy of music in a fun environment.”

Musical selections presented by the group will include “Armed Forces Salute – The Pride of America!”, “Woodwind Marmalade”, “At Ease”, “Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral”, “Trumpeters Lullaby”, “Deep River”, “Prospect”, “Tailspin” and “Sousa Palooza”. Serving as conductors during the concert are Anthony Wayne High School faculty member Robert Krichbaum, Owens Adjunct Instructor of Fine and Performing Arts William Dais and Dr. Mead.

Among the high schools participating in Owens’ High School Honors Band Day are Anthony Wayne H.S., Elmwood H.S., Emmanuel Christian School, Lake H.S., North Baltimore H.S., Rossford H.S., Springfield H.S. and Toledo School for the Arts.

Throughout the daylong event, Owens High School Honors Band Day attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities in preparation for the High School Honors Band Concert, including seating auditions, full-band rehearsal and sectional-band rehearsal, among other music programming.

Owens’ Department of Fine and Performing Arts offers students the opportunity to pursue an associate degree in music performance/education in preparation for careers as aspiring music educators or performers. A music business technology certificate program is also available for those individuals interested in enhancing their knowledge within the areas of music business and studio music technology.

For more information about the concert, contact Owens’ Department of Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081.

Owens Findlay-area Campus Hosts Greater Hancock County College Night, March 7

Posted on February 24th, 2011

FINDLAY, OH – More than 80 colleges and universities from Ohio and the surrounding states will visit the Findlay area as the Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus hosts Greater Hancock County College Night on Monday, March 7. The event will occur from 6:30-8 p.m.

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

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

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

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

In addition, high school counselors will be present during the event to answer general college questions.

For more information on Greater Hancock County College Night, contact the Owens Findlay-area Campus at (567) 429-3074 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 3074.

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

Posted on February 24th, 2011

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

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

Owens Dental Hygiene Students Lends Helping Hand to Local Residents With Dental Supply Drive, Feb. 24 – March 25

Posted on February 24th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College dental hygiene students are reaching out to area residents with limited or no access to dental care by partnering with the Food For Thought organization and hosting a dental supply drive, Feb. 24 – March 25.

Beginning Thursday, Feb. 24, the Dental Hygiene Program will be accepting a variety of basic dental hygienic items, including large and travel size toothpaste, toothbrushes and dental floss. The dental hygiene students are also collecting new or gently used gloves/mittens, scarves, hats and gallon-size Ziploc bags. The donation drive will run through March 25.

All collected donations will be delivered to the Food For Thought organization and given to individuals in need as part of the organization’s outreach efforts on Saturday mornings from 10-11 a.m. outside the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library in downtown Toledo. Additionally, dental hygiene students within the program’s “Preventive Practice” classes will be distributing basic dental hygiene supplies and providing oral health education information to those individuals with limited or no access to dental care on March 19 and 26 during Food For Thought’s Saturday morning “Downtown Picnic” program.

“Community service is about helping others and Owens Community College’s Dental Hygiene Program is proud to lend a hand to the Food For Thought organization,” said Janice Darah, Owens Professor of Dental Hygiene. “It is important for our students to become societal contributors and engage in community outreach and service. There are many families who are struggling with basic needs, such as toothbrushes and toothpaste. Our program is honored to play a small role in Food For Thoughts’ efforts to make a positive difference in the lives those who are less fortunate.”

Donations can be dropped off in the College’s Department of Dental Hygiene Room 224 during regular business hours from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Owens’ Department of Dental Hygiene is located in Health Technologies Hall on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

Food For Thought was founded in May 2007 with the overall goal of assisting those in need by providing lunches, consisting of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chips, fruit, a juice box and a cookie on Saturday mornings in downtown Toledo. The lunch distribution has grown into more than a meal, as several churches and other organizations have since joined Food For Thought and made various contributions in addition to the sack lunches, such as soup, coffee, hygiene products and clothing. The organization also features a stationary food pantry and mobile food pantry. Food For Thought, which is located in Oregon, serves over 1,300 families per month through the two pantries in addition to over 350 people each Saturday as part of the “Downtown Picnic” program.

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

For more information about the Owens dental hygiene supply drive or to make a donation, contact the College’s Dental Hygiene Program at (567) 661-7290 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7290.

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

Posted on February 23rd, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Student Groups Donate Thousands of Books to Needy Literacy Programs, Feb. 25

Posted on February 23rd, 2011

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

Since establishing the collection drive program in June 2006, the two student organizations have received over 50,000 in donated books from Owens employees and students, as well as the surrounding communities. Most recently, the two student groups have collected over 3,500 books, which will eventually end up in the hands of underprivileged individuals throughout the world.

Beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 25, the two student organizations will prepare the donated books for shipment to Better World Books, which is a national organization dedicated to fighting global illiteracy through the dissemination books and funds to needy non-profit organizations. Literacy non-profit groups in which Better World Books, located in Mishawaka, Ind., serves include Books for Africa (Africa), the National Center for Family Literacy (United States), Room to Read (South Asia) and Worldfund (Latin America), among others.

To date, Better World Books has received more than 53 million book donations from over 1,800 colleges and universities participating in the worldwide program. The international organization has also assisted in raising more than $9.2 million for literacy and education non-profit groups.

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

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

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

Owens Community College Students to Host Community Blood Drive, March 1

Posted on February 22nd, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents can help in saving the lives of their neighbors as Owens Community College and the American Red Cross host a community Blood Drive on Tuesday, March 1.

The Blood Drive will occur from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the College’s Audio/Visual Classroom Center Rooms 125-128 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The Blood Drive will be staffed by Owens surgical technologist students.

“Owens Community College is extremely pleased to continue its involvement in such a beneficial endeavor with the American Red Cross and assist in their efforts of saving lives,” said Kris Flickinger, Owens Chair of Surgical Technologies.

Owens Express Basketball Teams Conclude Regular Season Against Cuyahoga CC, Feb. 23

Posted on February 21st, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s and women’s basketball programs will conclude the regular season portion of their schedules with games against Cuyahoga Community College on Wednesday, Feb. 23. The women’s team will play Cuyahoga (11-9, 2-6) at 5:30 p.m., while the Express men will battle the Challengers (14-10, 7-3) beginning at 7:30 p.m.

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

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express has amassed an overall record of 25-4 and is 10-1 (tied for first place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. Llanas’ team is currently on a nine-game winning streak and is ranked No. 12 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball poll. A win will assure the Express of a share of the OCCAC regular season title – their first since the 2006-07 campaign.

The 2010-11 edition of the men’s basketball program has an overall record of 10-19 and a 3-8 mark (sixth place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

Owens Community College to Host FFA District I Tractor Troubleshooting Competition, Feb. 25

Posted on February 18th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area high school students will put their knowledge of tractors to the test as they compete in the 18th annual FFA District I Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics Contest at Owens Community College on Friday, Feb. 25.

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Unveils New Michael Rickard Student-Athlete Hall of Excellence, Memorial Fund and Award

Posted on February 17th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College is honoring the legacy of former Express Director of Athletics Michael Rickard who passed away unexpectedly in December 2010 by unveiling a new Student-Athlete Hall of Excellence, Memorial Fund and Student-Athlete Award all in his name. The three announcements were made during a tribute ceremony in his honor as part of a men’s and women’s basketball doubleheader against Edison State Community College.

“Michael Rickard positively impacted thousands of lives during his time at Owens Community College and we are extremely honored to recognize him by unveiling a new Student-Athlete Hall of Excellence, Memorial Fund and Student-Athlete Award,” said Chris Giordano, Owens Dean of Student Life. “In three decades at Owens, as a student and an employee, and lastly as Athletic Director, Michael enriched many people’s lives. Undeniably, he will be missed. But the many successes of Owens Express athletics – the teams and student-athletes – are a reminder of his legacy.”

The hallway adjacent to the Student Health and Activities Center’s gymnasium will now be recognized as the Michael W. Rickard Student-Athlete Hall of Excellence. A bronze plaque will soon adorn the hallway alongside the already visible awards, accolades and images of those enshrined in the Student-Athlete Hall of Excellence. Rickard was a longtime advocate for student-athlete recognition, and in his tenure, a total of 88 student-athletes received the highest possible praise, either athletic or academic All-American honors from the NJCAA.

In addition to the newly named Student-Athlete Hall of Excellence, Owens Community College’s Alumni Association has chosen to honor the legacy of Michael Rickard by establishing The Michael Rickard Memorial Fund through the Owens Community College Foundation. The new memorial fund was created thanks to an initial $10,000 contribution by the Owens Alumni Association. The Michael Rickard Memorial Fund honors the legacy of Express Director of Athletics Michael Rickard, who also was an Owens graduate and a member of the Owens Alumni Association Board of Directors. The fund will be used to provide scholarships for Owens students and to support Owens Express intercollegiate athletic programming.

The College has also established a new Michael Rickard Student-Athlete Award, which will be awarded annually to an Express student-athlete who exemplifies excellence in the community, in the classroom and on the athletic playing field.

Rickard worked in various athletic capacities for the College for more than 30 years, including full time since 1985 and as Athletic Director since July 2000. He was devoted to the Owens Express as he worked with coaches, student-athletes, parents, and faculty and staff through many seasons of wins and losses.

A 1982 Owens graduate and a 1984 University of Toledo graduate with a bachelor’s degree in education and recreation/sports management, Rickard was named Athletic Director of the Year for 1995-96, 1999-2000, 2003-04 and 2009-10 by the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC). He has been associated with Express athletic teams since the 1979-80 season, serving as a scorekeeper, statistician and assistant coach at times. From 1999-2001, he served as the Commissioner of the OCCAC.

For more information about The Michael Rickard Memorial Fund, or to make a donation, contact the College’s Alumni Relations Office at (567) 661-7876 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7876, or by e-mail at alumni@owens.edu.

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Owens Express Men’s and Women’s Basketball Reschedules Home Games Against Cuyahoga CC, Feb. 23

Posted on February 16th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s and women’s basketball home games originally scheduled for Feb. 2 against Cuyahoga Community College will occur on Wednesday, Feb. 23. The women’s team will play at 5:30 p.m. against the Challengers, while the Express men will battle Cuyahoga beginning at 7:30 p.m.

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

The Express women’s basketball program has amassed a 23-4 overall record and currently is tied for first place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, their conference record is 8-1. In this week’s NJCAA Division II poll, Owens women’s basketball is ranked No. 12 in the nation.

The 2010-11 edition of the men’s basketball program has an overall record of 9-18 and a 2-7 mark (seventh place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

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

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

Posted on February 15th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on February 14th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Announces Free Spring ‘QuickStart to College’ Program, Feb. 21 – May 4

Posted on February 14th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to explore career options and gain advice on making the first steps toward a college education as Owens Community College presents a free “QuickStart to College” program, Feb. 21 – May 4.

The free ten-week program, which is designed for first generation college attendees, low wage workers, underemployed and undereducated adults in mind, will take place Mondays and Wednesdays (Feb. 21 – May 4) from 9-10:50 a.m. in Heritage Hall Room 103. The classes will occur on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

Additionally, Owens will make available the “QuickStart to College” program on Wednesdays (Feb. 23 – May 4) from 12-3:50 p.m. in Room 135 at the College’s Learning Center at The Source in downtown Toledo.

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

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

In order to be eligible for the free “QuickStart to College” program, individuals must have obtained their High School Diploma or GED. A mandatory orientation is required for students on their first day of class. For more information about the “QuickStart to College” program, call (567) 661-2990 for the Toledo-area Campus classes or (567) 661-2732 for the Learning Center at The Source classes.

Owens’ Community Terrace View CafÈ Announces Spring Semester Menu, Feb. 22 – April 19

Posted on February 11th, 2011

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

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

The Terrace View CafÈ will be available to guests starting Tuesday, Feb. 22 with a tropical pork roast with mango as the entrÈe. Regional food discoveries will be the featured selection on Tuesdays, while Thursday’s culinary focus is international influences.

Upcoming Spring Semester dates and entrÈe listings include Feb. 24 (lombo di maiale ripieno – salumi stuffed pork loin), March 1 (fried chicken tenders with barbeque sauce), March 3 (kung pao chicken served with white rice), March 15 (grilled Texas ribeye steak), March 17 (golabki in sos pomidorowy – meat and rice mixture rolled inside cabbage and served with a tomato sauce), March 22 (smothered chicken), March 24 (cibillaud demoiselle d’avignon served with anna potatoes – steamed cod with vegetables), March 29 (Spanish chicken and chorizo paella), March 31 (yakitori – teriyaki chicken on a skewer), April 12 (TBA), April 14 (vatapa served over basmati rice – spiced shrimp) and April 19 (shrimp and oyster gumbo served over white rice). Additionally, attendees have the opportunity to choose either a lacto-ovo vegetarian entrÈe or a Terrace chicken burger with the planned side dishes if desired. A complete listing of dishes is available at www.owens.edu/terrace. Bakery items also will be available for purchase during the luncheons.

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

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

Owens Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery Presents “Vaughn Bell: Transported Landscapes” Exhibit, Feb. 18 – March 29

Posted on February 10th, 2011

Vaughn Bell's environmental sculpture titled "Pack of Forest" is among the many artistic expressions on display as part of the "Transported Landscapes" exhibition in the College's Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College invites area residents to experience the interconnectedness between art and the environment as internationally-known environmental artist Vaughn Bell presents an installation within the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery that heightens awareness about how agriculture transforms the local landscape in an exhibit titled “Transported Landscapes”, Feb. 18 – March 29. The Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery is located in Owens’ Center for Fine and Performing Arts on the Toledo-area Campus in Perrysburg Township.

In addition, Owens will serve as host to a reception and lecture with Bell at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 17. Both the reception and lecture, which are free and open to the public, will take place in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Studio Theatre Room 111.

“Internationally recognized environmental artist Vaughn Bell has created an installation in the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery that relates Owens Community College to the larger landscape,” said Wynn Perry, Owens Part-Time Coordinator of the Walter E. Terhune Art Gallery. “The installation uses seeds of local crops that are significant to Ohio and the global economy. Bell’s exhibition at Owens maps transportation routes and allows viewers to reflect on the way large-scale agriculture transforms the local landscape.”

Bell is known worldwide for her creation of interactive projects and immersive environments that deal with how society relates to the environment. She has exhibited her sculpture, installation, performance, video and public projects internationally, including commissions for the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and the Edith Russ Site for New Media Art in Odenburg, Germany.

The Seattle resident has been featured in such publications as “ARTnews”, “Afterimage” and the “Arcade Journal”, among others. Bell holds a master’s degree from the Studio for Interrelated Media at Massachusetts College of Art and a bachelor’s degree from Brown University.

Both soybean and corn seed, which are incorporated into the exhibit, have been donated by the Bowling Green store location of Mid-Wood Inc., an agricultural grain and supply cooperative that is owned and controlled by the members its serves. During the spring season, an expanded version of “Transported Landscapes” will be unveiled in the courtyard adjacent to the Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

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

Owens to Host ‘A Tribute to Michael Rickard’ as Part of Express Basketball Doubleheader, Feb. 16

Posted on February 9th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will honor the legacy of former Express Director of Athletics Michael Rickard who passed away unexpectedly in December 2010 by hosting a tribute ceremony in his honor as part of a men’s and women’s basketball doubleheader against Edison State Community College on Wednesday, Feb. 16.

The tribute ceremony for Michael Rickard will begin at the conclusion of the Express women’s basketball game against Edison State at approximately 7 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens women’s basketball game will start at 5:30 p.m. followed by the Express men’s basketball contest against Edison State at 7:30 p.m. Admission to all home games is free.

“Michael Rickard will be warmly remembered for his dedication and passion to Owens Community College Express athletics,” said Chris Giordano, Owens Dean of Student Life. “His welcoming smile was part of his positive outlook on life and college athletics.† Michael touched thousands of lives over his three decades at Owens Community College and we are proud and honored to recognize him through a lasting tribute ceremony in his name.”

The tribute ceremony will commence with welcoming remarks by Owens Dean of Student Life Chris Giordano followed by a moment of silence in Michael Rickard’s memory. “A Tribute to Michael Rickard” will continue with comments by Owens President Dr. Larry McDougle. Additionally, several special announcements will take place during the ceremony to the honor the legacy of Michael Rickard.

Also, Owens Express student-athletes, coaching staffs and alumni from all seven of the College’s intercollegiate athletic programs will be in attendance and recognized as part of the celebration. At the ceremony’s conclusion, a photo of all Express student-athletes and members of Michael Rickard’s family in attendance will be taken and presented to his family to commemorate the evening. A second photo will soon adorn a hallway within the Student Health and Activities Center.

He was acknowledged by his peers for his leadership among community college athletic directors, as well as by opposing coaches and administrators who received respect and fair treatment when they visited the College. In addition, Owens student-athletes excelled in the classroom and on the athletic playing field as 88 student-athletes earned academic or athletic All-American honors from the NJCAA during his tenure.

Rickard was named to the Executive Committee of the National Alliance of Two-Year College Athletics Administrators in 2010 and also was a member of the Owens Alumni Association Board of Directors. His accomplishments include being honored by the Rotary Club of Maumee with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship for his contributions in the Toledo community.

The Express women’s basketball program has amassed a 21-4 overall record and currently is in second place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, their conference record is 6-1. In this week’s NJCAA Division II poll, Owens Express women’s basketball is ranked No. 19 in the nation.

The 2010-11 edition of the men’s basketball program has an overall record of 8-16 and a 2-5 mark (seventh place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

For more information about the tribute ceremony, contact the College’s Athletics Office at (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Community College Board of Trustees Named to Leadership Positions

Posted on February 8th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on February 8th, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Owens Community College Express Men’s Basketball Reschedules Home Game Against Tiffin University JVs, Feb. 14

Posted on February 8th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s basketball home game originally scheduled for Jan. 31 against Tiffin University JVs will occur on Monday, Feb. 14. The game will begin at 7 p.m.

The 2010-11 edition of the men’s basketball program has an overall record of 8-16 and a 2-5 mark (seventh place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

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

High-Speed Technical Photography Expert Andrew Davidhazy to Present Free Lecture and Workshops at Owens, Feb. 19

Posted on February 8th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents and photographers interested in learning about the scientific and technical aspects of photography from Andrew Davidhazy, one of the pioneers in the field of high-speed technical and scientific photography, are invited to attend a free lecture and register for several workshops at Owens Community College on Saturday, Feb. 19.

Presented by the Owens Photo Club student organization, Davidhazy’s lecture will take place from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. In addition to his lecture presentation, Davidhazy will provide two two-hour, hands-on workshops for attendees. The first workshop, which begins at 1:30 p.m., will cover “The Basics of Slit-scan and Strip Cameras and Applications”, while the second workshop will start at 4 p.m. and provide insight into the “Simplified Approaches to High Speed and Stroboscopic Photography”.

The lecture and workshops will take place in the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts Room 233 on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. All events are free and open to the public.

“Owens Community College is thrilled to have Andrew Davidhazy presenting two hands-on workshops, along with a lecture presentation,” said Ruth Foote, Owens Associate Professor of Fine and Performing Arts and Co-Advisor of the Owens Photo Club. “I’ve known Andrew for many years and his lectures and workshops are always popular, whether it is at a school or professional conference setting.”

Foote added, “Andrew Davidhazy’s lecture presentation will cover his vast body of scientific photographic work, including scanning or strip photography, as well as modifying off-the-shelf photographic equipment to improve capacity and capability.”

“Many people are familiar with Andrew Davidhazy’s work, without even realizing he was the photographer,” said Margaret Lockwood-Lass, Owens Adjunct Instructor of Fine and Performing Arts and Co-Advisor of the Owens Photo Club. “His popular images include stop action photos of sneezing, bullets going through playing cards, water droplets crowning and balloons popping. Golfers and other sports enthusiasts are familiar with his stroboscope photos of golfers or tennis players showing the full range of motion from a single stroke.”

Davidhazy serves as a Professor of Imaging and Photographic Technology in the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, N.Y. His professional background includes over 35 years of experience specializing in scientific and technical aspects of photography, as well as the application of technical imaging concepts to aesthetic purposes.

He has lectured and exhibited worldwide and his writings have been published in numerous books, articles and journals, including “Popular Photography”, “American Photo”, “Industrial Photography” and “Camera”, among others. He was the Inaugural Kodak Visiting Professor to Australia and has been an exhibitor and guest lecturer at photographic educational institutions in Sweden, France, Brazil and Argentina, as well as at many professional societies and organizations nationwide.

Davidhazy also served on the U.S. House Select Committee that re-examined photographs of Lee Harvey Oswald, and was later called upon to authenticate a photograph of O. J. Simpson wearing shoes he claimed never to have owned.

Davidhazy’s accolades include being awarded a NASA American Society for Engineering Education Summer Fellowship at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va., for conducting research and providing consulting services in the area of high-speed photography. He is a Fellow of SPIE and the Society for Imaging Science and Technology, as well as the recipient of the Eisenhart Award from the Rochester Institute of Technology and the Raymond Bowman Award from IS&T for excellence in teaching.

Workshop space is extremely limited and pre-registration is required. Registration will be restricted to only one workshop per applicant. Lunch is included free of charge as part of the daylong event.

For additional information about the upcoming lecture or registration for either workshop, contact Owens’ Department of Fine and Performing Arts at (567) 661-7081 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7081. Individuals can also access information online at www.owensphotoclub.org ( http://www.owensphotoclub.org/ )or pre-register for the workshops at owensphotoclub@gmail.com.

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

Sociological Expert Dr. Richard Schaefer to Provide Free Talk at Owens Community College, Feb. 15

Posted on February 8th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in gaining insight into the understanding of diversity and its impact on a global society are invited to a free lecture featuring nationally-known sociological expert Dr. Richard Schaefer at Owens Community College on Tuesday, Feb. 15.

Sponsored by the College’s Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Schaefer’s lecture presentation is titled “The Implications of Cultural and Ethnic Diversity in a Global Era” and will occur at 12:30 p.m. in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Mainstage Theatre on the Toledo-area Campus. Admission to the event is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

“Owens Community College’s Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences is excited to provide the extraordinary opportunity to hear a nationally-known sociological expert present on how culture and ethnic diversity continues to evolve and its impact on society from a global perspective,” said Denise Shuster, Owens Chair of Social and Behavioral Sciences. “Dr. Richard Schaefer’s lecture will detail how becoming even more open-minded as a society to the many cultures and traditions of different groups can have a profound impact on our lives.”

Schaefer serves as a Vincent DePaul Professor of Sociology at DePaul University in Chicago. He was selected as one of eight Vincent DePaul-named faculty in recognition of his undergraduate teaching and scholarship in 2002. Besides conventional classroom settings, Schaefer has taught online, as well as part of adult education, nursing and maximum-security prison programs. He received a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Northwestern University and a master’s degree and doctorate both in sociology from University of Chicago.

He is the author of six textbooks, including “Racial and Ethnic Groups” and “Race and Ethnicity in the United States”, and general editor of the three-volume “Encyclopedia of Race, Ethnicity, and Society”. Schaefer is also the author of “Sociology: A Modular Approach”, “Sociology”, “Sociology: A Brief Introduction” and “Sociology Matters”. Additionally, he co-authored with William Zellner the ninth edition of “Extraordinary Groups”, which provides insight into such groups as the Amish, the nation of Islam, Scientology and Wicca.

Besides teaching and writing, Schaefer previously Chaired departments at two colleges and served as Dean of a college of arts and sciences for 10 years. He held the position of President of both the Illinois Sociological Association and the Midwest Sociology Society. In addition, he served three terms as Vice President of a community mental health board and two terms as a school board President.

For additional information about the lecture presentation, call (567) 661-7180 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7180.

Owens Student Group Raises Environmental Awareness During ‘Love Your Mother Earth: Tree Hugger Fair’, Feb. 16

Posted on February 7th, 2011

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will bring environmental awareness to the forefront specific to natural and organic living as the Owens Raising Awareness Club hosts its first-ever “Love Your Mother Earth: Tree Hugger Fair” on Wednesday, Feb. 16.

More than a dozen environmental organizations are scheduled to participate in the fair, which will be held from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. The event is free and open to the public.

“Owens Community College is proud to collaborate with several local community organizations and educate the public about the many benefits of natural and organic living,” said Nicole Lance, Owens Raising Awareness Club Advisor and Student Activities Part-Time Assistant. “The ‘Love Your Mother Earth: Tree Hugger Fair’ will provide a great venue for individuals to learn about ways to live a healthier lifestyle, free from chemicals that could cause harm to themselves and the environment.”

“Love Your Mother Earth: Tree Hugger Fair” participants include Health Foods by Claudia, Toledo Botanical Garden’s Toledo GROWs, Toledo-Lucas County Rain Garden Initiative, Phoenix, Anyana-Kai, GreenLine Foods and Bassett’s Health Foods, among others. In addition, the Owens Environmental Club will offer information specific to utilization of the bamboo plants and the College’s massage therapy program will be providing free massages to event attendees.

For additional information about Owens’ “Love Your Mother Earth: Tree Hugger Fair” activities, call (567) 661-2569 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2569.