Campus Achievements and Noteworthy Stories

Ashland University student Mason Niese began his journey in media at Shelby Middle School when he started filming football games. This early experience ignited his passion for the field, leading him to pursue a career as a camera operator and video editor.

After high school, he chose Ashland University for its renowned Journalism and Digital Media Department. Niese has gained invaluable hands-on experience, working as a camera operator for all home football and basketball games. His notable experiences include working Cleveland Cavaliers and Guardians games, Ohio State athletics, and the MLS Cup.

To learn more about Niese and the Ashland University Journalism and Digital Media Department, click here.

Baldwin Wallace University engineering students gained hands-on experience through a partnership with Regency Construction Services, Inc. during this past spring semester.

This collaboration turned a Cleveland Metroparks project at Wallace Lake into a learning lab for Dr. Jennifer Kadlowec’s global engineering class. The students engaged in every phase of construction, from design to building, while learning about project scope, scheduling and safety.

Caely Ressler, a BW engineering major, found the project invaluable for bridging the gap between theory and practice.

“Experiences like this force us to focus on the practicalities of implementing what we learned,” she said.

The experience left the class with enhanced skills, new perspectives on their future careers and increased confidence in their ability to succeed in the engineering field.

To learn more, click here.

Bluffton University’s strength and conditioning program has been reapproved by the National Strength & Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) Education Recognition Program (ERP).

The major prepares students to work with athletes through effective program design and athletic development, including speed, power and agility assessments. Graduates often pursue further education in strength and conditioning, athletic training and physical therapy.

NSCA requires students aiming for the Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam to graduate from an ERP-recognized school.

Bluffton’s ERP recognition, initially received in 2021, is valid through March 31, 2027.

To read more, click here.

Capital University is now accepting applications for its new Master of Social Work (MSW) program, beginning in the fall semester.

This program is one of the few in Ohio offering an MSW in Advanced Social Work Practice, prepares graduates for diverse social work fields. The MSW is delivered in a hybrid format with evening and Saturday classes, along with field experiences and research opportunities.

Capital University, known for over 50 years of excellence in social work education, aims to empower graduates to influence and inspire communities.

“We want our graduates to have a voice in the community,” said Program Chair Dr. Renda Ross, emphasizing the program's rich curriculum and professional development opportunities.

To learn more, click here.

Jim and Teresa Clark retired from Cedarville University at the end of the 2023-24 academic year, concluding a 27-year journey they began together.

Initially settled in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the Clarks had no plans to move until a visit to Cedarville with their daughter changed their path. Teresa was hired as the head volleyball coach and Jim secured a role in the admissions department.

Reflecting on their journey on the Cedarville Stories Podcast, the Clarks highlighted how their careers evolved from a chance encounter to leaving a lasting legacy at their alma mater.

To listen to the podcast or to read more, click here.

Defiance College alumni Grant Phillips and Megan Barber have donated $100,000 to create a new patio area behind Hubbard Hall. This generous gift aims to enhance the campus experience as the college anticipates increased enrollment.

Dr. Richanne C. Mankey, Defiance College president, expressed gratitude, noting the importance of comfortable, social spaces for students. Previously a reading court when Hubbard Hall was a library, the area now houses Student Life offices and The Hive, a campus restaurant and coffee shop.

The new Phillips Patio will include outdoor dining for The Hive, a natural gas fire pit, seating, a small performance area, a hammock forest and a handicap-accessible ramp.

Phillips and Barber emphasized their pride in supporting their alma mater’s future. They hope the patio will foster student relationships and contribute to the college’s ongoing innovations and growth.

Click here to learn more.

After Kirsten Edwards '77 passed away, friend Trish Skuse Cadwallader '76 was determined to find and publish Edwards' manuscript, "Up On Cedar Mesa."

Edwards, a successful attorney turned writer, had devoted her later years to earning a master’s degree in English from Ohio State University and teaching creative writing there. Her semi-autobiographical novel remained unpublished at her death from breast cancer in 2022.

Cadwallader, along with Edwards’ other Denison University sorority sisters, decided to honor her memory by ensuring her novel was published and by establishing the Kirsten D. Edwards ’77 Endowed Scholarship Fund for Creative Writing at Denison, raising $250,000.

"Up On Cedar Mesa," exploring themes of love and nature, is now available on Amazon. This initiative not only brought Edwards’ dream to fruition but also created lasting opportunities for future writers at Denison.

To learn more, click here.

The University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum is hosting its 30th annual Summer Conference from July 15 to 17, welcoming teachers, librarians and book enthusiasts.

This three-day event features nine keynote speakers, including renowned author and illustrator Matthew Reinhart, known for his intricate pop-up books. The conference also highlights Caldecott Medal winners Cozbi A. Cabrera, Micha Archer and Cindy Derby, each bringing unique artistic talents and backgrounds to the stage.

The conference has a long notable history, having an impact on over 8,000 attendees from 40 states and five countries. The event includes door prizes, autograph sessions, a gift shop and book sales, with additional breakout sessions led by educators.

To learn more, click here.

Franciscan University of Steubenville has launched the Institute for Catholic Humanitarian Service (ICHS) to train humanitarian professionals in Catholic faith and morals.

Led by Stephen M. Rasche, JD, the institute aims to integrate theology, practical training and field experience to prepare students for vocational service. Initially focusing on projects in Nigeria, the ICHS will rehabilitate a Catholic school and a long-term care hospital. The institute is part of the "Franciscan Encounter" initiative, leveraging the university's resources for broader impact.

Future efforts will target marginalized communities in Africa, the Middle East, and economically declining U.S. regions. An independent board of directors will oversee ICHS, supported by major Catholic charitable institutions and benefactors.

To learn more, click here.

Franklin University has expanded its Doctor of Education in Instructional Design Leadership (Ed.D.-IDL) program with two new focus areas: Curriculum & Instruction and Education Technology.

These additions cater to professionals seeking careers in instructional design, emphasizing student-centric learning and educational technology innovations. The program, recognized for its online flexibility and alignment with career goals, prepares learners with advanced skills in instructional design, educational technology and leadership. Students engage in hands-on experiences and research, culminating in a comprehensive dissertation.

Designed for working adults, the Ed.D.-IDL can be completed in three years, accommodating busy schedules while fostering scholarly and practical expertise.

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At Heidelberg University's inaugural Givers Gala, upcoming senior Lillian Robeson had the honor of meeting Bob Oleson, retired Dean of Students and Dean of Alumni, who inspired the Oleson-Wolff Scholarship she received.

Established by alumni Aris Kaplanis and Kinsley Nyce to honor Dean Oleson and the late Dr. Leanne Wolff, the scholarship recognizes students like Lillian who excel academically and contribute significantly to campus life.

Robeson, a business management major with minors in communication and media studies, shared her gratitude for the recognition, noting how it affirmed her hard work and achievements.

“I didn’t know that people did notice me, and that fills my heart. It’s so nice to be recognized in this way,” Robeson said.

To read more, click here.

Hiram College Athletics announced the addition of three new varsity sports: women’s lacrosse, women’s bowling, and men’s ice hockey, set to begin in the 2025-26 season.

This expansion brings Hiram's total varsity sports to 26, enhancing opportunities for Division III student-athletes. Women’s lacrosse returns after a previous stint in the North Coast Athletic Conference and will now compete in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference. Men’s ice hockey will be Ohio’s sole Division III team, playing at “The Pond – Ice Rink & Sports Complex” in Chagrin Falls. Women’s bowling, under Davidson, aims to instill leadership and teamwork.

To learn more about these new additions, click here.

The Boler College of Business at John Carroll University (JCU) emphasizes international education through experiential learning opportunities, helping students develop cross-cultural awareness.

Led by Dr. Tina M. Facca-Miess, students participate in short trips abroad, like the recent one to Belize, where they apply course lessons in real-world settings. These trips offer practical business experience, such as market research and strategy development for local companies.

Additionally, JCU hosts about 60 international students, primarily in business majors, doubling the number from the previous year. These students experience American culture while receiving an education. The Center for Global Education at JCU facilitates these international exchanges, ensuring affordable and accessible travel opportunities for students, highlighting the transformative nature of studying abroad.

Click here to learn more.

Four staff members at Kenyon College were recently honored for their dedication to the campus community with the Distinguished Service Award and the new Staff Council’s Spirit Award.

The Distinguished Service Award, presented by President Julie Kornfeld at the Years of Service recognition ceremony, was given to Babette Cichanowicz from the Career Development Office and Samantha Hughes, the Civil Rights/Title IX coordinator. Cichanowicz, praised for her professionalism and support to students, has been with the College since 2013. Hughes, recognized for her dedication and thoroughness, has served in various roles at Kenyon since 2006.

The Spirit Award went to Dean of Student Development Robin Hart Ruthenbeck and Groundsperson Michael Schirtzinger. Hart Ruthenbeck, who joined in 2017, was acknowledged for her community-focused projects. Schirtzinger, at Kenyon since 2015, was commended for his expertise in agronomy and his volunteer work with local youth.

Both awards celebrate exceptional service and contributions to the Kenyon community.

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Lake Erie College has been awarded $500,000 from the Ohio Senate to enhance its health science initiatives, specifically through renovating and expanding lab spaces.

This funding, part of Senate Bill 292, was supported by Senator Jerry Cirino and State Representative Jamie Callender. President Jennifer N. Schuller expressed gratitude for their efforts, highlighting the project's potential to attract new students and faculty.

The renovations will support the introduction of new academic programs, including an exercise science major, slated to begin in fall 2025. This program will complement existing health sciences offerings and prepare students for careers in physical therapy, sports medicine and related fields.

Additionally, the expanded lab spaces will foster collaborations with local community colleges, businesses and organizations, addressing regional needs and enhancing Lake Erie College's commitment to high-quality, career-oriented education.

To learn more, click here.

In Fall 2024, Lourdes University will introduce eight new programs: five majors—Environmental Studies, Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, Data Science and Supply Chain Management—and three minors—Diversity Studies, Human Development and Family Studies and Artificial Intelligence Literacy.

There is high demand for these programs both by students and in the workforce, aiming to enhance student success post-graduation. These additions showcase the university’s dedication to adapting to changing times and priorities.

Click here to read the full story.

The DAISY Foundation, which honors nurses worldwide for exceptional compassionate care, awarded Malone University’s BSN student Rachael Troyer this year. Founded by the family of J. Patrick Barns, who died at 33 from Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura, the foundation celebrates outstanding nursing.

Troyer, praised for her deep commitment to the Christian faith, expressed that nursing is her calling, driven by a mission to serve with unconditional love. She was honored at the 2024 Malone Nursing Pinning Ceremony.

To read the full article, click here.

Anna Allison '24 and Laney Carpenter '25, Public Accounting majors at Marietta College, presented their research on "The Foreign Outsourcing of Accounting Services" at the North American Accounting Society (NAAS) conference in Chicago.

Their study explored why U.S. organizations outsource accounting roles overseas, analyzing the benefits and drawbacks.

The experience allowed the student’s to enhance their research skills while also receiving valuable feedback from their presentation.

To learn more, click here.

Dr. Nicole Johnson, a professor at the University of Mount Union, is among 30 Ohio faculty members awarded an Open Educational Resources (OER) Course Redesign Grant from OhioLINK.

The grant supports instructors in learning about OER, potentially saving students over $1 million annually. It includes compensation for participating in a four-week online training and consulting with an OER-specialist librarian to find alternatives to commercial texts.

Dr. Johnson utilized the grant to revamp her REL 360G Religious Conflict & Peacebuilding course, integrating a peer-reviewed journal on religion and violence.

To learn more, click here.

Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) has launched its first doctoral program, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

The program aligns with MVNU's mission of learning and serving, aiming to cultivate compassionate nurse leaders. The DNP program integrates advanced clinical skills and leadership, preparing graduates to innovate and lead in healthcare. Program Director Dr. Debra Garee highlighted the curriculum's focus on impacting health outcomes locally and globally.

The program offers three concentrations: Systems Leadership, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner.

MVNU’s DNP is designed for nurses at various career stages, offering flexibility and inclusivity. The faculty, experienced in nursing practice and research, provide personal support to students. Monthly virtual information sessions are available for prospective students, with the first class starting in November 2024.

To learn more, click here.

Muskingum University hosted various alumni and experts during the 2024 spring semester to share their after-college experiences with students.

The Otto and Fran Walter Humanitarian Fellows welcomed Dr. Hollie Nyseth Nzitatira, who discussed the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The Campus Connections program featured Emmy-winning producer Linda Karn ’76, who spoke about careers in theatre and film, and Jim Jackson ’88, EVP & CMO of Hewlett Packard Enterprises, who discussed marketing careers and AI in academia.

The Impact Center organized a speed networking event, connecting students with professionals like Zanesville City Law Director David Tarbert ’90, Muskingum County Judge Maria Kalis ’95, and others.

These events aimed to broaden students' understanding of peace, justice, arts, business and professional development.

Read the full article to learn more.

During her time at Oberlin College, Evelyne White ’04 discovered the Ashby Business Scholars program, exposing her to various career paths and inspiring her professional journey.

After earning an MBA from Harvard Business School and working in private equity, White co-founded SixPlus, a startup for booking private event spaces.

At Oberlin, she balanced music, politics and business interests, ultimately pivoting from a potential career in Washington, D.C., to entrepreneurship. The Ashby Business Scholars program connected her with mentors like Chris Wofford and Béla Szigethy, who played pivotal roles in her career.

To read the full story, click here.

Public Relations and Marketing Communications students from Ohio Dominican University (ODU) placed third in the EdVenture Partners and Department of Homeland Security’s “Invent2Prevent” spring 2024 competition.

The team, consisting of Brynn Mullet, Makenna Riley, Katelyn Woodley and Elizabeth Zerby, developed "Shelve the Hate," an initiative aimed at preventing online radicalization and targeted gun violence through resources for libraries. Guided by Associate Professor Natalie Kompa, the students competed against 25 collegiate teams and presented their project in Washington, D.C., winning $3,000.

The funds will benefit ODU’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter, with plans to expand the initiative nationwide.

click here to read the full story.

Ohio Northern University’s Jennifer Pullen, Ph.D., has authored the first collegiate-level textbook on fantasy fiction writing, titled “Fantasy Fiction: A Writer’s Guide and Anthology,” published by Bloomsbury Publishing.

Pullen aims to expand the literary canon to include the culturally relevant but often overlooked genre of fantasy fiction. She highlights the historical marginalization of fantasy and science fiction and advocates for their inclusion in academic curricula.

Inspired by her own love of fantasy fiction, which began with Grimms’ fairy tales and “The Last Unicorn,” Pullen emphasizes the genre's unique ability to process human emotions through impossible worlds. The textbook offers genre history, writing strategies and an anthology of contemporary stories. Pullen hopes it will validate and equip aspiring fantasy writers and educators, making fantasy fiction a respected field of study.

The book has been well-received by English colleagues nationwide, reflecting a growing appreciation for the genre.

To read the full story, click here.

Ohio Wesleyan University students Ellie Dodds '25, Frankie Nuss '27, Lily Bechina '26 and Auzlynd Katterhenrich '25, attended the 7th International Soil Classification Congress in Hokkaido, Japan.

Accompanied by professors Craig Jackson and Kristin Crosby, the students explored soil profiles and engaged with global soil classification experts. They met international soil scientists, gained hands on experiences and learned the importance of communication within the field.

The students plan to share their experiences at OWU and promote soil classification awareness through presentations and possibly starting a soil classification club on campus.

To learn more, click here.

Certified Master Life Coach Kyra Crook, is dedicated to helping Otterbein University students navigate college life as a Success Coach.

She supports students by listening to their challenges, providing resources and acting as their cheerleader. Crook’s role includes assisting first-generation college students with tasks such as ordering books, handling class issues and managing new relationships.

Drawing on her own experience as a first-generation student, Crook aims to offer the guidance and support she once needed. Her impact is evident through students like Jo Rauk, who credits Crook with her motivation and success at Otterbein.

“She has made me a better student in so many ways and has held me accountable,” Rauk said.

Crook's ultimate goal is for her students to achieve their academic goals and feel supported.

Click here to read the full story.

Tiffin University has partnered with MST Sauce Company to launch Tiffin University Dipped in Gold: Golden Glaze Sauce, a new sauce flavor created by TU alumnus Chris Chase.

This collaboration not only enhances culinary experiences but also funds scholarships at TU. MST Sauce Co., born from the success of Madison Street Tavern, now offers nine sauce varieties, with Dipped in Gold being the latest. Profits from its sales will support scholarships for deserving TU students.

Chris Chase expressed excitement about contributing to TU's educational mission through this partnership.

“We love working with such a great institution that molds future entrepreneurs and showcases the power of collaboration within the community,” he said.

Read the full story now.

Associate Professor Mary Kovach, PhD, MBA, LSSBB, PSM, has achieved rapid success with her latest book, "Build a ROCKSTAR Business: From Ideation to Inception in 120 Minutes."

The entrepreneurial playbook quickly soared to the top 50 Best Seller Rank in Amazon's Strategy & Competition category and top 100 in Market Research Books.

As director of Ursuline College’s MBA program, Dr. Kovach brings extensive experience from both Corporate America and academia. Her prior publications, including business books and scholarly works, have garnered significant global readership and downloads. Dr. Kovach's latest book serves as a practical guide, featuring over a dozen exercises aimed at refining creative ideas, applying business strategies and developing actionable plans for launching a business.

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The Blouin Scholars Class of 2026 embarked on a transformative summer trip exploring Detroit, Ontario, Buffalo and Pittsburgh.

Students were able to deeply engage with community responses to neighborhood development, visiting educational institutions and organizations like the University of Michigan-Detroit Center, King's University, The Working Centre and the Manchester Bidwell Corporation. In Buffalo, they attended Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral, fostering connections with locals.

Audrey Dornish, a finance major, reflected on the experience as pivotal for personal growth and proactive thinking amid challenging topics.

“The experience opened my mind and heart to learn, hear and absorb information, experiences and feelings from everyone we met,” she said.

Read the full story here.

Sophomore at Wilmington College Olive Iragena, co-founded TWEENS (Together We Educationally Empower Non-privileged Students) to support refugee students in Zimbabwe.

Raised in Tongogara Refugee Camp, she overcame limited resources and cultural barriers to pursue education.

TWEENS provides essential resources, tutoring and exam preparation, impacting over 1,000 students and enabling scholarships for higher education. Iragena, also a Dean’s List student and active campus leader, aims to raise $10,000 during World Refugee Week to expand TWEENS' impact. Her advocacy reflects a commitment to empowering refugees through education, offering hope and opportunities for a brighter future despite adversity.

Click here to read the full story.