Campus Achievements and Noteworthy Stories

D.J. Duncan attributes his success at Ashland University to faith, hard work, and mentorship. A standout track athlete and business student, he launched 2 Tapped Threads, a clothing brand promoting positive messages. Inspired by his upbringing in Mansfield, Duncan aims to uplift at-risk youth through affordable, motivational apparel. With support from AU professors, his business is growing. Duncan plans to expand his line while staying true to his mission of inspiring others. As he prepares for graduation, he remains focused on what’s next, trusting in faith and determination. Read more.

Berea, Ohio, home to Baldwin Wallace University, ranks as the 10th safest college town in the U.S., according to research.com. With low crime rates and a strong partnership between BW security and local police, students enjoy a secure and welcoming environment. The town offers a close-knit community while being just minutes from Cleveland’s cultural and professional opportunities. BW students appreciate the strong sense of safety and support on campus. Once known for its quarries, Berea now boasts scenic parks, making it an ideal place for students to learn, grow, and explore. Read more.

Alexis Rippel ’27, a biology and chemistry major at Bluffton University, gained hands-on experience during her 2024 internship at Charles River Laboratories. Rotating through departments, she worked in clinical pathology, formulations, and necropsy, where she conducted canine dissections—bringing her coursework to life. Inspired by family medical challenges and her brother’s biology studies, Rippel is passionate about medical research. After graduation, she plans to pursue a doctorate at Ohio University and continue in pathology. Read more.

Capital University is making college transfers more affordable with its new Tuition Transfer Match program. The initiative matches net tuition costs for transfer students from Ohio private, non-profit colleges. Eligible students must be new to Capital, enroll full-time, and meet admission requirements. As a member of the Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways, Capital continues to support transfer students with clear pathways and credit-for-experience opportunities. Read more.

After a shocking cancer diagnosis in late 2023, Dr. Will Smallwood, Cedarville University’s vice president for advancement, was given just six months to live. Diagnosed with multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer, he turned to faith and perseverance through grueling treatments.

Despite the odds, Smallwood’s cancer is now in remission, and he’s back to work, using his journey to encourage others battling illness. Read more.

Defiance College Social Work students raised $2,670 to support Children’s Lantern, a local organization aiding foster, adoptive, kinship, and reunified families.

Through creative fundraisers like an NCAA tournament, “Boo Bags,” bake sales, and donation drives, students, faculty, and the community came together to make a meaningful impact. The funds will provide essential resources to families in need, reinforcing the college’s commitment to service and advocacy. This initiative highlights the power of collaboration and compassion in supporting vulnerable children and caregivers. Read more.

Denison men’s tennis will celebrate 70 years of varsity competition with its inaugural alumni reunion this spring. The event will feature social gatherings, opportunities to connect with current players, and a match against nationally ranked Trinity University. Coach David Schilling ’89 hopes the reunion fosters alumni engagement and appreciation for the program’s rich history, including legendary players like Shaw Emmons ’59 and notable alumni such as Michael Eisner ’64. With ambitions to host a joint reunion with the women’s team in 2026, this milestone event highlights Denison’s enduring tennis legacy. Read more.

The University of Findlay has been recognized as a Bee Campus USA affiliate, joining a national effort to support pollinators.

Led by the student beekeeping club, The Hive, the campus now hosts three beehives and plans to create pollinator habitats for bees and butterflies. Members will engage in conservation efforts, public outreach, and hands-on beekeeping experiences. As an affiliate, Findlay gains access to national experts, training, and funding opportunities. Read more.

Franciscan University of Steubenville has made history with its Rebuild My Church Capital Campaign, raising an incredible $125 million to enhance academic programs, scholarships, outreach efforts, and campus facilities. This record-breaking campaign has already funded the Christ the Teacher Academic Hall, major chapel renovations, new academic initiatives, and expanded outreach programs. University leaders credit the overwhelming generosity of alumni and donors for exceeding their original goal by $50 million. Even as celebrations continue, fundraising efforts remain ongoing for key projects. Read more.

Franklin University is launching a Superintendent Licensure Post-Graduate Certificate program, offering a 100% online, flexible path for education professionals to advance into district leadership.

Designed for current principals and administrators, the program can be completed in as few as eight months and includes hands-on internships to apply learning in real-world settings. With a curriculum focused on strategic planning, school finance, and data-driven decision-making, this certificate also provides a pathway to Franklin’s Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership. As demand for advanced credentials grows, this program prepares future superintendents for success. Read more.

Heidelberg University’s Career Closet is now open, providing students with free professional attire for interviews, internships, and careers. Housed in the HYPE Career Ready® and Placement Office, the closet offers everything from suit jackets and dress shirts to shoes and accessories—all available to borrow or keep. Recognizing a need, Dr. Carole Thomas and Kristen Snyder launched the initiative through generous alumni and community donations. With plans for expansion and an upcoming open house, the Career Closet aims to remove financial barriers and prepare students for professional success. Read more.

Hiram College’s HAPPI Place and Student Resource Center have partnered with the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank to expand access to essential food, hygiene products, and school supplies. With demand rising since its 2023 launch, this collaboration allows the pantry to stock more items at little to no cost, easing financial burdens for students. Beyond necessities, AmeriCorps members offer peer support, resource referrals, and transportation assistance. Open throughout the week, HAPPI Place is committed to enhancing student well-being and academic success. Read more.

John Carroll’s Luke Chicone ’26 has been named Male Collegiate Athlete of the Year by the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, capping off an unforgettable 2023-24 season.

The senior point guard led the Blue Streaks to OAC Regular Season and Tournament Championships, earning OAC Player of the Year and All-America honors along the way. His performance in the title game against Mount Union helped secure the championship in overtime. Chicone’s scoring, playmaking, and leadership cemented his place among JCU’s all-time greats. Read more.

In Professor Nancy Powers’ political science class, students investigated asylum seekers’ home-country conditions, uncovering evidence that could shape court cases. This community engaged learning approach made immigration issues personal and impactful, even influencing legal proceedings. The experience inspired students to explore careers in immigration law and advocacy. Read more.

Lake Erie College students, faculty, and community members came together for the 8th annual “Winter Wonderland” prom, a magical night for individuals with special needs. Held at Painesville Baptist Church, the event featured limo rides, a red carpet, music, and pampering services to create an unforgettable experience. Organized with help from Dr. Katie Davis and local volunteers, the prom also provided a respite space for families to watch their loved ones celebrate. With heartfelt community support, this cherished tradition continues to bring joy to all involved. Read more.

After serving as interim head coach, Jake DuPree has officially been named the Lourdes University men’s basketball head coach.

A former Lourdes player, DuPree has led the Gray Wolves to a strong 16-6 record this season, with standout performances from senior guard Shaunn Monroe, the NAIA’s leading scorer. Lourdes leadership praised DuPree’s commitment, leadership, and impact on student-athletes both on and off the court. With postseason play ahead, DuPree is set to guide the program into a bright future. Read more.

The Malone University Board of Trustees has reaffirmed its confidence in President Gregory J. Miller, extending his contract through June 30, 2029. Since taking office in 2022, Miller has led Malone to notable achievements, including record-breaking fundraising, enrollment growth, and national recognition as a top Christian and affordable university. His leadership has also strengthened Malone’s mission as Northeast Ohio’s only Bible-based university. With a bright future ahead, Miller remains committed to expanding Malone’s impact in Christian education and the community. Read more.

Navigating college can be overwhelming, but Marietta College’s Mid-Year Involvement Fair helps students find their place. Held on January 24 as part of the College’s Martin Luther King Jr. Week, the event connected students with campus organizations, Greek life, and local non-profits. With over 50 student groups, the fair fostered community, belonging, and leadership opportunities. Whether through fraternities, academic clubs, or the Student Veterans of America, students discovered ways to get involved and make lasting connections. Read more.

For Mount Union wrestlers Amya Stith and Hannah Hanrahan, the sport is more than competition—it’s a lifelong passion. Recruited for the University’s inaugural women’s wrestling team, both athletes now coach at Alliance High School, inspiring the next generation of female wrestlers. With confidence and determination, these athletes are proving that wrestling isn’t just for men. Read more.

Mount Vernon Nazarene University has been awarded the 2024 Ohio EPA Recycling and Litter Prevention Grant, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. The grant will fund new water bottle fill stations across campus, encouraging students, faculty, and visitors to reduce plastic waste. MVNU’s Facilities Operations team played a key role in securing and implementing this initiative, aiming to foster a greener community.

“This is a significant step toward a more sustainable campus,” said Ben Cook, Director of Facilities Operations. Read more.

Muskingum University’s December 2024 Accelerated BSN (ABSN) graduates have achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX, continuing the program’s legacy of excellence. This 15-month hybrid program blends advanced coursework with hands-on clinical training, preparing students for immediate impact in healthcare. With multiple BSN pathways, the University is dedicated to combating the nursing shortage and equipping students for rewarding careers. Read more.

For Jesse Cruz ’25, Oberlin College has been a transformative experience, shaping his academic and professional journey. As a math and computer science double major, he found inspiration in courses like Linear Optimization, which expanded his analytical thinking. His time in the Ashby Business Scholars Program introduced him to invaluable networking opportunities, connecting him with Oberlin alumni who helped him land a role at Synchrony after graduation. With strong faculty support and real-world experience, Jesse is ready to make an impact in the business world. Read more.

Ohio Dominican University (ODU) has taken a major step toward sustainability with a new campuswide recycling program, funded by a grant from SWACO. With 66 new recycling bins placed around campus, ODU aims to reduce landfill waste by 25%, reinforcing its commitment as a Laudato Si’ campus to environmental stewardship. This initiative empowers students, faculty, and staff to adopt sustainable habits while supporting Pope Francis’ call to care for our planet. Read more.

Ohio Northern University is modernizing its Art & Design major, blending studio arts and graphic design into a flexible program tailored for diverse creative careers. With an emphasis on technical, conceptual, and critical thinking skills, students can personalize their studies with new courses like Digital Technology and Social Media Design, plus recommended minors in complementary fields. Small class sizes and dedicated faculty ensure a hands-on, high-impact learning experience to help graduates thrive in today’s evolving creative industries. Read more.

Ohio Wesleyan University proudly welcomes back Nevin Horne ’20 as the new director and head coach of the Battling Bishops Esports Program. A former class president, Horne returns to OWU after building championship-winning teams at Otterbein and Huntingdon College. With experience in tournament operations and collegiate coaching, he aims to elevate OWU’s esports presence on the national stage. Under his leadership, OWU esports athletes will compete in NECC tournaments across multiple games. Read more.

Otterbein senior Olivia Shore is making history as the No. 1 ranked women’s wrestler in the 103-pound weight class, leading the Cardinals in their inaugural season. As the only collegiate women’s wrestling team in central Ohio, Otterbein takes the mat at home for the first time on Jan. 28 against John Carroll. A two-time World Team Member for Team USA, Shore continues to break barriers in the sport, just as the NCAA officially adds women’s wrestling as a championship sport. Read more.

For many college graduates, landing a job after earning a degree is tougher than expected. A saturated job market, lack of hands-on experience, and limited career guidance leave many struggling to find meaningful employment. However, Tiffin University (TU) is changing the game with its Dragon Pathway program, structured career services, and emphasis on real-world internships. TU students graduate with the skills, experience, and confidence to stand out in today’s job market. Read more.

Gannon University and Ursuline College have signed a historic agreement to create the largest Catholic higher education system along Lake Erie.

By December 2026, Ursuline will become an additional location of Gannon University while maintaining its distinct identity, academic programs, and mission. Leaders from both institutions emphasize that this partnership preserves their legacies while expanding opportunities for students, faculty, and alumni. With integration efforts already underway, this collaboration sets a new model for Catholic education. Read more.

Walsh University is hosting an International Dinner & Cultural Festival on Saturday, March 22, at the Barrette Business and Community Center. Hosted by Walsh’s World Student Organization, this event will offer authentic international cuisine, live performances, and artistic displays from students representing 36 countries. Read more.

For the second consecutive year, Wilmington College has been recognized as a Tree Campus USA by the Ohio Tree City USA Awards Program and the Arbor Day Foundation. Known for its lush green spaces, including Collett Mall and the Frank O. Hazard Arboretum, WC continues its commitment to sustainability and environmental education. By meeting key criteria—such as a tree-care plan, student engagement, and Arbor Day celebrations—the College highlights the importance of trees for both the campus and the community. Read more.

Wittenberg University’s B.S. in Exercise Science with a Strength and Conditioning concentration has become Ohio’s first CASCE-accredited program, positioning students for success in the evolving field. With 2030 certification requirements mandating a degree from a CASCE-accredited program, Wittenberg graduates will gain a competitive edge. Students benefit from hands-on internships, expert mentorship, and cutting-edge training facilities, preparing them for careers in strength coaching, fitness, and sports performance. This milestone highlights Wittenberg’s commitment to academic excellence and professional readiness. Read more.

For two decades, Richard Lehtinen, professor of biology at The College of Wooster, has studied plant-breeding frogs, most recently presenting his research at the World Congress of Herpetology in Borneo. His work on the endangered golden treefrog in Trinidad led to a major discovery—its breeding call, previously unknown to science. This finding could be crucial for conservation efforts as climate change threatens its fragile mountaintop habitat. With Wooster students actively involved, Lehtinen’s research is shaping the future of amphibian conservation. Read more.