Campus Achievements and Noteworthy Stories
From Marietta College to Lourdes University, The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) 32 member campuses are achieving newsworthy successes all across Ohio.
Do not let the smaller population of students and more compact campuses fool you. Students, alumni and independent colleges are celebrating huge victories despite the many obstacles they have faced over the last few years. Scroll through the Campus Features page to read more.
Ashland University has partnered with Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, to enhance Holocaust education in the United States. The collaboration will bring two Jewish scholars, Yossi Kugler and Sarah Levy, to the AU campus in spring 2024. Kugler will teach a two-week course on the Holocaust, deliver a public lecture and engage with students and organizations. Levy will lead Holocaust education training for K-12 schools and collaborate with educational institutions. The partnership aims to expand Holocaust education resources, work with Ohio on initiatives and establish future programs. This partnership will advance the education and training of AU faculty members as well.
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Baldwin Wallace University has introduced a Health Equity Research & Education Institute with the support of a $350,000 U.S. Department of Education grant. The institute aims to address health disparities in Ohio and provide students with research, caregiving and problem-solving experiences. It will also focus on collecting health equity-related data, offering micro-grants for research and community programs and expanding its efforts beyond 2025 in collaboration with community partners.
BW currently offers various healthcare degree programs including nursing, physician assistant, public health, speech communication disorders, psychology and a healthcare MBA.
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Bluffton University is experiencing positive trends in enrollment, with 205 traditional undergraduate students in the incoming 2023 class, up from 172 the previous year. Notably, 68 of these first-year students come from out of Ohio, representing 17 different states. Popular majors for this class include business administration, sport management, exercise science and education.
Additionally, graduate enrollment at Bluffton has increased by 50% over the previous year, attributed to the addition of new graduate programs. Despite the impending "enrollment cliff," Bluffton's total enrollment remains steady, showcasing strong recruitment efforts for the entering class of 2024.
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Capital University has expanded its Main Street Scholarship to provide first-time college students with the potential for full tuition for up to four years. The scholarship offers a minimum of $20,000 annually to full-time undergraduate students in their first year, including transfer and international students.
Capital aims to enhance access and affordability in higher education, making a private education comparable to or even less expensive than a public school.
To learn more, read the full article.
Deidre Sizer, Assistant Director and Tutoring Coordinator of Cedarville University's academic enrichment center, The Cove, was awarded the President's Award by the National Tutoring Association (NTA) during its annual conference in Oct. The NTA is the largest organization dedicated to training and advancing tutors in the United States.
Sizer has been working to connect students with tutors, organize events and find solutions to student challenges for the past 12 years. Her dedication to helping students, both academically and personally, was recognized through this prestigious award.
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Defiance College is launching its "DEFIne Your Future" Program, reducing annual tuition by 25%, aiming to attract new students and retain existing ones. The initiative includes financial aid repackaging for all students and a program called the DC Advantage Plan, which ensures loan repayment for graduates earning less than $45,000 per year.
By making education more affordable, Defiance College intends to draw students who may not have considered higher education, while preparing them for successful post-graduation careers and community leadership roles.
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Denison University has received an $11 million gift from the Austin E. Knowlton Foundation, furthering their commitment to career preparation. The Knowlton Center for Career Exploration has been recognized as one of the nation's premier career centers and the latest gift will allow them to continue to prosper.
The grant will go towards enhance existing programs, scale successful pilot initiatives and create new opportunities for Denison students and alumni to achieve professional success. These efforts have resulted in impressive post-graduation outcomes, with the majority of graduates employed, in grad school or completing service within six months of graduation.
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The University of Findlay's College of Education has received the "2023 Inviting School Silver Fidelity Award" from the International Alliance for Invitational Education (IAIE). The IAIE recognizes institutions for their efforts in creating inviting schools, which have been shown to enhance academic achievement, graduation and attendance rates and collaboration while reducing behavior problems and teacher burnout.
Findlay met the IAIE standards in all five areas of Invitational Education, focusing on trust, respect, optimism and care. The award acknowledges the faculty and staff's work to support students in becoming inclusive and qualified professionals.
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The University of Findlay celebrated the accomplishments of seven outstanding alumni during the 34th annual Alumni Awards Banquet held as part of the 2023 Homecoming Weekend. These alumni were recognized for their contributions in various fields, including healthcare, advocacy, education and more.
Awards received included the John J. Carrigg Award, the Father Dan Egan Alumni Award, the Alumni Citizenship Award, the Prof. Edward J. Kelly Award, the Bishop John King Mussio Award, the Outstanding Young Alumni Award and the Rose M. Defede Faithful Franciscan Award.
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Franklin University has introduced its new M.Ed. in Educational Leadership-Principal Licensure program, targeting busy teachers aspiring to become school principals in Ohio. This 12-month program combines online master's courses with a 12-week on-site internship under a supervising principal. The curriculum aligns with the National Educational Leadership Preparation Program (NELP) Recognition Standards, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to foster learning environments, support teachers, allocate resources, and manage systems in education. Graduates who meet specific criteria can also sit for the Ohio Assessment for Educators exam to obtain a principal's license.
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Dr. Carole Thomas, Director of Career and Military Services at Heidelberg University, is dedicated to helping students and service members develop strategies for entering the workforce. As a military veteran herself, she assists fellow service members in recognizing and showcasing their talents and achievements.
Dr. Thomas’ passion for helping veterans transition into the workforce extends to her role at Heidelberg, where she advocates for initiatives that support veterans, such as establishing a military lounge and a student organization called the Student Military Support Alliance. She is committed to helping all students realize their career goals.
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Hiram College's Sport Management Department has partnered with Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA), a non-profit that promotes positive character-building experiences for youth and high school athletes.
The collaboration allows Hiram College Sport Management students to access PCA's coach training, resources and workshops. The aim is to create a positive youth sports experience by emphasizing life lessons and values. Students will earn certifications from PCA, preparing them to be effective, person-centered coaches. Additionally, a live training for sport administrators will be open to all members of the Hiram community in the spring.
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Dr. Sara Parrish, assistant professor at John Carroll University's Department of Education, secured a 2-year grant from the Ohio Dean's Compact to partner with Xavier University in developing a dual licensure program in special education and primary education.
The initiative aims to enhance the capacity of Ohio's higher education institutions and improve graduates' abilities to meet the needs of all students, including those with disabilities and from minoritized groups.
Dr. Parrish also received a $50,000 research grant from the Spencer Foundation to study the representation of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in children's literature, aiming to challenge stereotypes and deficits in educational settings.
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Yufan Lu '25 and Jaden Stewart '25 have received the Franklin Miller Awards, recognizing their impactful contributions to the Kenyon community.
Lu works to create a safe and sustainable space for LGBTQ+ students. Their efforts extend to campus-wide problem-solving. Lu also co-leads a science and arts magazine, participates in musical ensembles and engages in community groups.
Stewart, an English major, overcame adversity and now supports others through leadership, offering practical guidance to students facing challenges. He also produces YouTube videos covering various topics such as mental health and how to succeed in college.
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The National Alumni Board of Lake Erie College announced the recipients of its 2023 Alumni Awards during their Alumni Weekend on Sept. 29.
The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes graduates who have contributed to the college or excelled in their profession. This year's recipient, Anastasia "Stacy" Pantsios, '68, is a renowned rock n' roll photographer with work featured in prominent publications.
The Young Alumni Award went to Dr. Gabriel "Gabby" Frato Bahrami, '13, a pediatric cardiology specialist.
Margy Pfeifer Ladd, '74, received the Debra Blanchard Remington '74 Service Award for her dedicated support of the college.
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Jordy Rengifo Poma's journey from a small jungle community to Lourdes University in Ohio has taken an extraordinary turn, with his sculptures featured at the Toledo Museum of Art. His exhibition, "Las Curiosas," depicts women in nature, sharing stories of resilience and overcoming abuse. The art reflects Poma’s deep connection to nature and his identity, offering viewers a chance to connect with the portrayed women. Despite the challenges of balancing academics and art, Poma finds inspiration in nature, showcasing his commitment to learning and growth.
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Adjunct professor Kristen Beck, received the Cardinal Award for her outstanding dedication to wildlife conservation and education. Beck, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, mentors students, leads the university's Wildlife Rehabilitation minor and operates North Canton's Clover Field Wildlife Center. The award recognizes her tireless efforts in balancing the wise use and protection of natural resources. Her passion, commitment and significant contributions to wildlife rehabilitation and education exemplify the ideals of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
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Marietta College's Physician Assistant Program secured the top spot at Ohio's first in-person PA Olympics since 2019. The 2025 cohort won the fundraising challenge, raising the most money for the Ken Anderson Alliance charity, and performed well in team events, leading to their overall first-place victory. This historic win grants Marietta the opportunity to host the next PA Olympics and choose a charity for fundraising efforts, marking a significant achievement for the program.
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Emilee Styranec, a biology and neuroscience double major at the University of Mount Union, is the first female in her family pursuing a college education. As a first-generation college student, she navigates challenges with the support of friends, advisors and her parents. Styranec aspires to become a physician assistant and, despite initial diversions, has dedicated her studies to medicine. She emphasizes the importance of pursuing personal goals and encourages exploration of different interests. Involved on campus, she aims to build a supportive community for first-generation students.
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The Mount Vernon Nazarene University Board of Trustees awarded the 2023 BOT Hospitality Award to Benzel A. Enyart of the Information Technology Services Department. Recognized for outstanding hospitality, Enyart consistently makes a positive impact on the university through respectful interaction with students, faculty and staff. Described as a Christian employee with a true servant's heart, Enyart's technical expertise, problem-solving skills and gracious customer service contribute to a positive atmosphere in the department. The award signifies his dedication and exemplifies a hospitable attitude on campus.
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Muskingum University prioritizes student wellbeing, offering mental health support through their counseling services. The service provides resources for students, faculty and staff such as campus-wide events promoting mental health awareness including sunflower distributions for suicide prevention stress-relief activities and and themed events like "Don't Ghost Your Mental Health." The university's Muskie Wellbeing App facilitates easy access to mental health resources. Future plans include Mental Health First Aid Training for staff and continued mental health support for all students.
To learn more, click here.
In 2014, Chris Jenkins became Oberlin Conservatory's associate dean for academic support, stepping into a role focused on equity. Acknowledging challenges within music conservatories, Jenkins praises Oberlin's proactive efforts to address these issues. The institution has reevaluated its music theory curriculum, introduced an African American music minor, hired faculty specializing in diverse traditions and expanded repertoire choices. Jenkins teaches courses on the racial politics of classical music and hip-hop, reflecting Oberlin's commitment to inclusivity.
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Ohio Dominican University is offering high school students a unique opportunity to explore its cadaver labs, providing an insider's perspective on this educational resource. With dedicated labs for undergraduates and master's programs, the visits aim to familiarize students with the advantages, processes and use of cadaver labs. The university believes having a cadaver lab gives students a significant advantage in their educational experience and prepares them for advanced studies in graduate or medical school.
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Stephany Coffman-Wolph, Ph.D., an assistant professor of computer science at Ohio Northern University, has been named a 2023 Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN) Rising Star. Known for her innovative teaching methods, she fosters an entrepreneurial mindset in her students, using engaging lessons such as a mid-term review scavenger hunt with rubber duck prizes. Recognized by KEEN, Coffman-Wolph's commitment to igniting curiosity and teaching critical thinking aligns with ONU's emphasis on high-impact teaching and learning. She is the third KEEN Rising Star from ONU, emphasizing the university's unique teaching approach.
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Ohio Wesleyan University has been granted its third and largest Choose Ohio First (COF) award, supporting STEM and STEM education degrees. This five-year grant will fund scholarships, academic support and work-based learning experiences for STEM scholars. The Ohio Department of Higher Education recognizes Ohio Wesleyan for its significant impact on workforce development, contributing to central Ohio's transformation into a high-technology hub. President Matthew VandenBerg expresses pride in the university's contribution, emphasizing the strength of liberal arts graduates in addressing STEM challenges.
Click here to read the full press release.
Otterbein University celebrated National First-Generation College Celebration Day on Nov. 8. The event, organized by the Office of Social Justice and Activism and the Counseling Center, featured Otterbein's provost, Wendy Sherman Heckler, sharing her first-generation student journey. The celebration included music, food and conversations with Director Selethia Brown, Chief Diversity Officer Frank Dobson and current first-generation students discussing their experiences.
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Tiffin University's recording label, Tiffin Music Studios, has released its first album, "TiffinKidz Volume I," featuring songs performed by local children and teens in the TiffinKidz after-school vocal music program. Carter Bennett (`23) spearheaded the project as the album's producer and sound engineer, with education major Jessica Briney as the primary vocal coach. The release party is on Nov. 17, and the album is the first in a series of five to be released through Tiffin Music Studios, available on major music sharing platforms.
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Ursuline College's BSN-to-DNP program, in collaboration with SNAP (Somnia Nurse Anesthesia Program, LLC), has received initial accreditation from the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) for its Nurse Anesthesia track. The 36-month program, featuring a hybrid format with online coursework and in-person experiences, prepares nurses for the role of nurse anesthetists with a doctorate in nursing practice. The program aims to address the growing demand for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and the increasing requirement for a terminal degree for new graduates in the field.
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Walsh University has been recognized by Intelligent.com as one of the Best Colleges in 2024 in six categories. The university ranks #15 for Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Degree Programs, #17 for both Best Colleges in Ohio and Best Online Colleges in Ohio, and #18 for Quickest Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs. The rankings consider factors such as academic quality, graduation rates, return on investment and student resources. Walsh's Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs, particularly in healthcare management, are highlighted for their potential career impact and competitive advantage in related fields.
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Wilmington College's annual Hour of Power swimming relay raised $515 for sarcoma research. The event, sponsored by the men and women's swim team, aims to raise funds and awareness for sarcoma, a rare soft tissue cancer. The relay, held in honor of Ted Mullin, a former swimmer at Carleton College who died of the disease in 2006, featured participants from various sports teams and campus groups. The funds will contribute to cancer research, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in supporting those affected by the disease.
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Wilmington College junior Hope Florea has recently been accepted as a summer intern at Asian Rural Institute in Japan. The Asian Rural Institute is a space for students all around the world to share ideas for a sustainable and peaceful life, according to the article. Florea said she is excited to experience and learn about different cultures.
To learn more about the Asian Rural Institute and Florea, click here.
Wittenberg University recently held their 29th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser raising $45,910 for the Second Harvest Food Bank, allowing the university to see the change their fundraising has made right in their community. In total, Empty Bowls has raised over $625,910 in 29 years, equivalent to about 3,129,550 meals given to those in need.
To learn more about the Empty Bowls fundraiser and how Wittenberg gives back to the community, click here to read the full article.
The College of Wooster recently held their annual Senior Research Symposium, giving 2022-23 students the opportunity to present an independent study they put months of hard work into. The symposium featured a multitude of media including 176 posters, 100 visual presentations, demonstrations and more. Many students received awards for their independent studies in categories such as critical digital engagement and most visually appealing poster.
To learn more about the Senior Research Symposium at The College of Wooster and to read the list of award recipients, click here.