2023 Spring Awards Luncheon Recap
“The shortest distance to leadership is service.” Myles Munroe
The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) recognized two individuals who embody the ‘leadership is service’ principle on a daily basis. George Fenton, 2023 Earl F. Morris Trustee Award recipient and Eddie Harrell, 2023 Hall of Excellence inductee were honored on April 19 at the 2023 Awards Luncheon hosted at The Grand Event Center in Columbus, Ohio.
OFIC held its Board of Trustees spring meeting. Highlights include:
Credo, a leading higher education consulting firm, presentation on the results of a recent OFIC board survey aimed at board engagement
Acceptance of three new board members:
Pam Lebold, CPA, Shareholder, Maloney + Novotny
Troy Singer, Digital Marketing Specialist, Ring Digital
Lisa Stavsky, President & CEO, WesBanco Securities
Passing of the Board Chair Gavel
From existing OFIC Board Chair, Randy Marker, to Board Chair Elect, Barbara Britenriker, effective July 1, 2023
Awards Luncheon
Earl F. Morris Trustee Award
The Earl F. Morris Trustee Award was presented by Marietta College President, Bill Ruud, to George Fenton, a Marietta College Trustee. The award’s namesake, Mr. Earl F. Morris, was a faithful and dedicated OFIC Trustee, volunteer, supporter, and an early inductee himself in the OFIC Hall of Excellence. Established in 2010, the award recognizes long and extraordinary trustee service to an OFIC member campus.
Bill Ruud, George Fenton, Randy Marker, Bill Spiker
As president of Fenton Art Glass and grandson of company founder Frank L. Fenton, George worked closely with other Fenton family members involved in all aspects of the company. With the organization since 1972, George served as foreman of the Decorating Department and manager of manufacturing before becoming president in 1986. He states, "I am most satisfied when I can contribute to solving a difficult production problem."
George graduated with honors from Wesleyan College in 1971 with a B.A. degree in physics and astronomy, and completed the Owner/President Management Program at Harvard Business School in 1989. Born and raised in Williamstown, West Virginia, to Frank and Elizabeth Fenton, both Marietta College graduates, George graduated from Williamstown High School as valedictorian of the class.
Fenton has graciously served on the Marietta College Board of Trustees from 1993 to present, including as its Chair of the Board from 2015-2020. He has been active on many Marietta Advisory Boards and Board Committees including:
McDonough Center for Leadership and Business Entrepreneurship Advisory Board 2018-2020
Chair of the Presidential Search Committee 2000
Member of the Presidential Search Committee 2011
In recognition of his continuous generosity and engagement, he has been honored with the Marietta College Alumni Council Honorary Alumnus Award in 2020. He is often found at campus events such as basketball games and the monthly Physics Colloquium, as well as taking science courses at Marietta College for fun. George continues the family legacy of being passionately involved with Marietta College.
Hall of Excellence Inductee
Eddie Harrell, an outstanding Otterbein University alumnus was inducted into the OFIC Hall of Excellence by Otterbein University President, John Comerford. Harrell joins 138 previously inducted awardees who comprise the membership of the OFIC Hall of Excellence. All of these distinguished OFIC alumni have attained positions of leadership in their professional careers, demonstrated exemplary civic engagement, taken paths of lifelong learning, and been champions of independent higher education in Ohio. In 1987, OFIC initiated the Hall of Excellence to honor outstanding alumni of its member campuses. Each year, OFIC member colleges and universities are invited to nominate an alumna or alumnus to be considered for induction into The Hall of Excellence. Inductees are chosen by a committee of OFIC Trustees based on the criteria of professional achievement; impact on society through service, leadership, scholarship, diversity, inclusion, and equity efforts; sciences, research, arts or elected office; and, service to alma mater. Each of these achievements underscores the value, success, and impact of an independent college education.
Randy Marker, Eddie Harrell, John Comerford, Bill Spiker
William E. (Eddie) Harrell Jr. has been preparing for a life of service to his community since he graduated near the top of his class at Marion-Franklin High School in Columbus as an I KNOW I CAN student. He went on to contribute not only to the program that helped him through school, but also a variety of other civic programs for under-served people. He is currently a champion of diversity and inclusion as the regional vice president overseeing all of Urban One's Ohio markets, including Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati.
Mr. Harrell earned his bachelor's degree in business administration from Otterbein University in 1994, and his master's degree in business administration from Ashland University. He began his career with The Kroger Company, holding various management positions while serving on the I KNOW I CAN Board of Directors, first as a student member, then as a full member, and finally on the executive committee.
He eventually took the helm at I KNOW I CAN, becoming executive director and Project GRAD Columbus. I KNOW I CAN is a non-profit organization founded in 1988 on the belief that every child who wishes to pursue higher education should have the opportunity to do so and should not be denied that right because of his or her economic status. Project GRAD's mission is to ensure a quality public school education for at-risk children in economically disadvantaged communities to increase high school graduation rates and prepare graduates for college.
Under Mr. Harrell's leadership, I KNOW I CAN grew from awarding $1 million in Last Dollar Grants to awarding $1.7 million and growth in Last Dollar Grant funding was spurred by an endowment in excess of $22 million. During his tenure, Project GRAD expanded and doubled the number of students served. In 2006, Mr. Harrell became president and CEO of the Columbus Urban League. Founded in 1918, the Columbus Urban League is an affiliate of the National Urban League. During Mr. Harrell's tenure, the organization grew from a budget of $2.7 million to $11.5 million, and the staff increased from 40 to over 100.
In 2011, Harrell joined Radio One, now called Urban One, as vice president and general manager of its three Columbus radio stations. Urban One is a diversified media company that primarily targets African-American and urban consumers. It is the largest African-American owned broadcasting media company and the largest radio broadcaster targeting African-American and urban listeners. Currently, it owns and operates 57 broadcast stations located in 15 urban markets in the U.S. In 2014, he was promoted to vice president and general manager of its Cleveland market, before being named regional vice president of all of Urban One's Ohio markets in 2015.
Mr. Harrell was appointed to the Ohio Civil Rights Commission by Governor Ted Strickland in 2008 and named chairperson of the Commission in 2009. He received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Otterbein University Alumni Association in 2002 and was inducted into the Otterbein University African American Alumni Hall of Fame in 2008. He serves on the Otterbein Board of Trustees, The Ohio State University Nonprofit Advisory Committee, and has served on the Board of Trustees for COSI, Columbus City Schools Education Foundation, and KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program). Additionally, he has served as a member and in leadership positions for many Columbus area nonprofit boards. He is a member of the Capital Square Rotary Club and currently serves as an Adjunct Faculty member at Franklin University.
Thank You!
OFIC expresses our sincere gratitude to all who joined to celebrate our two honorees and to support private, independent higher education. To our honorees, thank you for your leadership and service to your communities. We look forward to working together to make a positive impact on the 65,000 students at our 33-member campuses and on the economy of the Great State of Ohio.
Core Values of the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges
There are three values that guide everything we do at OFIC and define our organization as a whole. At our core, the OFIC Staff and Trustees believe in these values:
meaningful connections
purposeful stewardship
collaborative action
Meaningful connections are all about building relationships that matter. By connecting students on our campuses with scholarship donors, we can help them achieve their dreams of obtaining a bachelor's degree. For over 7 decades, OFIC has been doing this important fundraising work, and many of you have generously helped us along the way. Thank you!
While keeping our eyes on philanthropy, we are expanding that work by focusing on the strategic theme of "Talent for Ohio." Through our current business partnerships and new ones, we aim to benefit OFIC students who are seeking internships and jobs in Ohio and beyond. These career connections will help us create a supportive network across Ohio and they will also contribute to building a strong economy.
Purposeful stewardship is all about responsible management of the resources we have been entrusted with. We take our responsibility seriously to be wise stewards of the funds that have been generously given to us. Every gift dollar we receive is important, and we are committed to using those resources in the most effective and efficient way possible. We believe in transparency and accountability and take great care to ensure that every donation is used as it’s intended and to its fullest potential.
Collaborative action is all about working together to create positive change. We believe that by collaborating with our business partners, community and government leaders, and campus presidents, we can achieve great things. No one organization can solve the problems alone, but through working together, we can create real and lasting change. We are committed to fostering a spirit of collaboration and partnership that can bring about meaningful progress.
Our commitment to these values allows OFIC to make an even greater impact on the students, our campuses, and the state of Ohio.
How to successfully attend OFIC’s third annual CareerFest on Feb. 15
Virtual career fairs can be overwhelming to navigate, especially if it is your first one, but they are also very beneficial to your future. From internships to jobs, the opportunities are endless when you attend a virtual fair.
On Wednesday, February 15, The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) will host their third virtual career fair featuring free student registration AND Ohio’s top companies ready to hire new employees and interns. There is still plenty of time to fully prepare for the virtual fair. Start by reading these steps and the full article to learn how to succeed at this year’s OFIC Virtual CareerFest! Click here to register.
The AT&T Foundation Donates $20,000 to Benefit Students from OFIC’s 33 Member Campuses
At The Ohio Foundation of Independent College’s (OFIC) recent board of trustees meeting, the AT&T Foundation was recognized for their generous $20,000 donation aimed at helping to close the digital divide across OFIC’s member campuses. The digital divide is being combated by the AT&T Foundation in five different categories:
access to the internet
adopting to the internet
affordability
digital literacy
devices
To learn more about the digital divide and the 68 yearlong partnership between OFIC and the AT&T Foundation, click the link below to read the full article.
Get to Know: The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges
Since 1950, The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges has represented private, higher education in Ohio. With over 75,000 students and 33 member colleges and universities, our non-profit organization not only raises scholarship dollars, but also provides outreach, services, and holds events for supporters to meet potential future employees and lifts up students attending our member campuses.
“We connect corporate Ohio with students from campuses all across Ohio. Thirty-three of the finest independent campuses in Ohio are members,” President of OFIC, Bill Spiker said. “Having the privilege to lead the OFIC team for the past seven years has awarded me the opportunity to facilitate meaningful scholarship, internship, and full-time career connections between our campus presidents, their talented students and Ohio’s top corporations and foundations.”
Our Purpose
33 Independent Campuses
75,000+ Students
OFIC was founded over 70 years ago to conduct annual solicitations from companies and foundations to benefit independent colleges and universities in Ohio. Solicitation is conducted annually with the help of corporate board members who assist our staff in calling on companies and foundations headquartered or doing business in Ohio. In addition, individual donors are sought out who want to further their philanthropic giving to students in need who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree from a member-campus. OFIC raises both unrestricted and restricted gifts including support for scholarships, endowments, and program support for annual Diversity Grants and our long-running Diversity Forum. Unrestricted gifts support needs in areas of the colleges’ choosing, most of them use the funds for student financial aid. Contributing a gift can help multiple students across the state of Ohio.
Our Mission, Values, and Vision
OFIC’s mission is to connect donors and partners with students in need, positively impacting Ohio’s economic engine. Our non-profit organization values meaningful connections, purposeful stewardship, and collaborative action. Our vision is to boldly leverage philanthropic and career partnerships to benefit OFIC students and bolster Ohio’s talent pipeline.
What We Do
Aside from raising scholarship funds to give students the opportunity to reach their goal of attaining a bachelor’s degree, OFIC hosts events including CareerFest where students and donors are able to connect for future employment opportunities and the OFIC Diversity Forum that provides reflection, discussion and actionable outcomes regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion.
An annual Awards Luncheon is also held to acknowledge graduates of member campuses who have achieved outstanding levels of accomplishment in their career and community service. In addition, an annual award is presented to an outstanding campus trustee who has provided service above and beyond to their college or university’s board of trustees.
Meet the OFIC Team
The people that are a part of the OFIC team who work every day to help independent college students with scholarships and career connections.
Bill Spiker: President. Meet with Bill
Brett Fields: Vice President of Operations
Amy Bartter: Regional Vice President for Development (Northeast and Southeast Ohio). Meet with Amy
Lori Burrows: Regional Vice President for Development (Central and Western Ohio). Meet with Lori
Loren Hughes: Manager of Scholarship Services
Tacarra Davis: Information Manager, Scholarship Administration and Assistant to the President
Judy Moehl: Scholarship, Events and Administration Coordinator
From scholarships to diversity grants to unrestricted giving, OFIC is helping to make a difference in the lives of students. Learn more about ways to partner with OFIC.
Accessible, Affordable, and Flexible Higher Education for Transfer Students in Ohio
Accessible, affordable, and flexible higher education for Ohio students is the simple yet powerful mission of The Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts. The Consortium has united 14 independent colleges and universities and 11 community colleges in Ohio to remove obstacles and establish transfer pathways to a bachelor’s degree for students at community colleges now and in the future.
A signing ceremony, held on December 7, 2022, at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus, Ohio, served as an opportunity to highlight the individuals and colleges who made this program possible as well as pledge that all partner institutions will continue to come together to work toward transfer student success.
Presidents or provosts from each institution signed a pledge to support access and opportunity for transfer students. Randy Gardner, chancellor for the Ohio Department of Higher Education, provided opening remarks; Jonnie Guerra, senior advisor, Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways, Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), spoke on behalf of CIC president Marjorie Hass; and Annie Bezbatchenko, senior program officer for the Teagle Foundation, shared from the perspective of a grantor's support of this and other transfer pathway projects.
“I am so proud of the work that faculty members and administrators at the 25 institutions have done together to smooth the way for future students to follow these pathways into majors in English, biology, and psychology, as well as building a more welcoming transfer culture to help these students achieve their dreams,” said CIC president Marjorie Hass.
“To sign these pathways after one year of collaboration is a major achievement, and I’d like to thank the faculty work groups for their hard work and collaboration to build these pathways, and the chief academic officers at the 25 participating institutions for leading this work on their campuses,” continued Hass.
In signing the transfer pledge, participants committed to understand and honor their connected roles in enhancing and providing access for students across Ohio. The program accounts for the fact that students’ dreams, goals and educations often evolve course by course, semester to semester, and that courses can be combined to build degree programs. The value of transfer pathways is that they offer an assurance to students that each consortium member believes in and follows a common and proven path to increase student success.
““In this work, we are removing barriers and misconceptions around transfer, clarifying curriculum choices that work for all of us – for the benefit of students, faculty, advisors, and all of our colleges.””
The consortium was launched in the fall of 2021, and made possible through a grant from the Teagle Foundation and Arthur Vining Davis Foundations.
“OFIC and CIC share a strong and successful partnership. We hold a State Council membership in CIC and all 33 of our members hold institutional memberships,” said OFIC president, Bill Spiker.
“The four-year, $400,000 grant funding for the project was secured by CIC and we were pleased to see Ohio independent campuses develop stronger pathways leading to more liberal arts graduates who will ultimately help boost Ohio’s economy,” continued Spiker.
The Consortium recently announced the approval of three pathways in biology, English and psychology.
View each approved transfer pathway:
OFIC Welcomes Haris Pratsinakis to Board of Trustees
Haris Pratsinakis
Vice President- Retirement Plan Consultant, Retirement Plan Services
Huntington Bank
A native of Queens, NY, Haris Pratsinakis has been with Huntington for nearly two decades, currently serving as Retirement Plan Consultant, in the Retirement Plan Services Group. He began his Huntington career as a personal banker in a branch location. Currently, Haris holds a series 7, 63, insurance license, and he’s an Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF) and Professional Plan Consultant
(PPC).
The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges connects students from our 33 member campuses with Ohio’s top corporations and foundations to make the dream of completing a college education a reality through scholarships, internships, and full-time career opportunities. We’re honored to welcome Haris to our Board of Trustees. Learn more at ofic.org.
Finding Tomorrow’s Top Talent - Ohio Business Magazine Feature
Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges is helping businesses connect to the state’s future workforce
By Corinne Minard, Originally Posted on Ohio Business Magazine
While the current labor market dominates much of the news lately, most business owners know they still need to keep an eye on the future workforce. One way to support and nurture Ohio’s future workforce is to support the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC).
Randy Marker, chair, Marker Inc., and OFIC Board of Trustees Chair
OFIC is a nonprofit that collects corporate donations and distributes funds to its 33 member colleges and universities. These funds assist the 76,600 students who attend OFIC institutions while also impacting local economies and providing opportunities for corporations to strengthen and multiply their pool of future college-educated workers.
Business leaders across the state have found value in supporting OFIC, including Randy Marker, chair of Marker, Inc., a commercial construction and development company with offices in Columbus and Bellefontaine, Ohio. As a longtime supporter of the organization, he’s had the opportunity to see the value of this support firsthand.
Ohio Community Colleges and Independent Universities Partner to Approve Transfer Pathways in Biology, English and Psychology
A December 7 signing event at the Ohio Statehouse will recognize the partnership of 25 Ohio institutions establishing pathways for students transferring from community colleges to independent campuses
Columbus, OH—The Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) and the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) today announced the approval of three transfer pathways developed by faculty and leadership at a consortium of 11 community colleges and 14 independent colleges. The pathways are for majors in Biology, English and Psychology, and align with the Ohio Guaranteed Transfer Pathways (OGTPs).
The Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts, was launched in the fall of 2021, made possible through a grant from the Teagle Foundation and Arthur Vining Davis Foundations. The Consortium has united 14 independent colleges and universities and 11 community colleges in Ohio to remove obstacles and establish pathways to a bachelor’s degree for students at community colleges for smooth transfer to one of Ohio’s private colleges.
To recognize the 25 consortium institutions and their recent curricula approvals, the Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts Signing Ceremony and Reception will take place on December 7 at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus, Ohio. Presidents and/or a senior leadership officer from each institution will participate in the signing ceremony with a pledge to support access and opportunity for transfer students. Randy Gardner, Chancellor for the Ohio Department of Higher Education, will provide opening remarks, and Annie Bezbatchenko, senior program officer for the Teagle Foundation, will speak from the perspective of a grantor's support of this and other transfer pathway projects.
“We are tremendously grateful for the engagement, leadership and enthusiasm of these 25 Consortium institutions pledging to work together to bring clarity, consistency, and confidence to the transfer conversation for students, faculty and advisors, and to build a strong, enduring transfer culture,” stated Winnie Gerhardt, Consortium project director. “It is our hope that by building these three major pathways, a foundation will be in place for pathways to be approved in many more majors in the years to come.”
According to data published by a collaborative effort among the Clearinghouse Research Center, the Community College Research Center at Columbia University, and Aspen Institute’s College Excellence Program in their report titled “Tracking Transfer: Measures of Effectiveness in Helping Community College Students to Complete Bachelor’s Degrees,” about 80 percent of community college students say they want to earn a bachelor’s degree when they first arrive. However, the 2022 data show that of those students who began postsecondary education at a community college in fall 2015, less than 50 percent graduated with a bachelor’s degree within six years, and lower-income students were nearly half as likely than their higher-income peers to have transferred to a four-year institution (25 percent vs. 41 percent) and to have attained a bachelor’s degree within six years of first entry (11 percent vs. 22 percent). Transfer pathways create clear curriculum choices for students that will then transfer to many 4-year universities to alleviate fears of losing credits or taking the wrong courses, which are often obstacles for students hoping to transfer down the road.
In addition to building transfer pathways, the Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts project will work with partner institutions on best transfer practices by:
Developing workshops for faculty, administrators, and transfer advisors from the consortium institutions to support and enhance the transfer culture on their campuses
Highlighting financial aid and scholarship opportunities
And encouraging students to follow transfer pathways to the four-year institutions as juniors, and explore reverse transfer
A Final Report to be published in Spring 2025 will evaluate the pathways’ influence on enrollment numbers, transfer numbers, student experiences, and work and relationships of faculty and transfer advisors.
Learn more about the Consortium: https://www.ofic.org/transfer-pathways
View each approved transfer pathway:
Psychology - https://www.ofic.org/transfer-pathways-psychology
CIC/OFIC Members
Ashland University
Baldwin Wallace University
Bluffton University
Capital University
Defiance College
Denison University
Hiram College
Lourdes University
Malone University
Muskingum University
Ohio Dominican University
Ohio Wesleyan University
Tiffin University
Ursuline College
Community Colleges
Central Ohio Technical College
Clark State College
Columbus State Community College
Cuyahoga Community College
Lakeland Community College
Lorain County Community College
North Central State College
Northwest State Community College
Sinclair Community College
Stark State College
Terra State Community College
About CIC: The Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) is an association of more than 700 nonprofit independent colleges and universities, state-based councils of independent colleges, and other higher education affiliates, that works to support college and university leadership, advance institutional excellence, and enhance public understanding of independent higher education’s contributions to society. CIC is the major national organization that focuses on services to leaders of independent colleges and universities and state-based councils. CIC offers conferences, seminars, publications, and other programs and services that help independent institutions improve educational quality, administrative and financial performance, student outcomes, and institutional visibility. It conducts the largest annual conferences of college and university presidents and of chief academic officers in the United States. Founded in 1956, CIC is headquartered at One Dupont Circle in Washington, DC.
About OFIC: The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) believes all students who enroll at a member campus deserve the opportunity to complete their college education. OFIC connects and partners with corporations and foundations to help to keep education affordable through scholarships, internships and career opportunities. OFIC’s goal is to facilitate an exceptional appreciation of independent higher education and its impact on the state of Ohio’s citizens, economy, and culture. Through its Scholarship Management Resources, OFIC creates national scholarship opportunities by partnering with organizations in Ohio and beyond. OFIC is located in Columbus, OH.
Media Contact: Sarah Hance, hance@ofic.org
What is the Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts?
An interview with Project Director, Winnie Gerhardt
The Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts in Ohio is preparing for their signing ceremony on Wednesday, December 7 at 1:30 p.m. located at The Ohio Statehouse Atrium. What exactly is the mission of this group - and what is a signing ceremony?
The Consortium for Transfer Pathway to the Liberal Arts in Ohio is composed of 25 total colleges and has plans to expand in the future.
The Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts is a partnership of 14 independent colleges and 11 community colleges working to enhance opportunities for students earning an associate degree to transfer to an independent college or university in Ohio. Our commitment is to approve transfer pathways for community college students seeking baccalaureate degrees in biology, English, and psychology, to provide consistency in how courses transfer and strengthen the transfer culture on each campus and between institutions. The Consortium has worked closely with the Ohio Department of Higher Education to align our transfer pathways with the Ohio Guaranteed Transfer Pathways and to honor the ODHE Ohio Transfer 36 curriculum.
These transfer pathways ensure that students can begin their studies at any of these community colleges, following the transfer pathway curriculum at that school, and be well prepared to transfer to these independent colleges at junior standing, bringing in maximum transfer credit and, if enrolled full-time, on track to finish the bachelor’s degree in four semesters.
View the newly approved curriculum for the transfer pathways:
“We are providing additional clarity for students and advisors on transferable courses and expanding access for them to take their associate degree to many colleges and universities – with maximum credit, transferring at junior standing, right on track to graduate,” Project Director of the Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts, Winnie Gerhardt said.
Project Director of the Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways, Winnie Gerhardt
Gerhardt came to the Transfer Pathway program with great knowledge and experience working with community colleges and transfer students. An OFIC member campus alumna from Muskingum University, she spent more than 30 years as Director of Transfer and Graduate Admission at Baldwin Wallace University.
Gerhardt has found great fulfillment in her work with a population of students who are often overlooked by institutions.
“I am extremely passionate about this work and believe it is an honor and privilege to help students take the next step in their educational journey. This project allows me to work with multiple colleges and universities toward that same goal, with faculty, academic leaders and transfer advisors who share that same passion,” she said.
During the planning phase, the program surveyed a multitude of private and community colleges across the state of Ohio to learn which liberal art majors were well-suited for the transfer pathways project and which department faculty were ready to tackle the project. From their research, it was found biology, English, and psychology degrees were the best starting point to make the most significant impact. Through generous funding from the Teagle Foundation and Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, this project was able to take off.
A signing ceremony planned for December 7, 2022 is an opportunity to lift up the individuals and colleges who made this program possible as well as pledge that all partner institutions will come together to work toward transfer student success.
“The signing ceremony also signifies next steps in the project – now that pathways are in place, how do we promote them, how do we work with them, how do we continue to build on relationships and keep them sustainable over time and how do we expand them?” Gerhardt said.
The Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathway to the Liberal Arts is not only creating direction for students but also boosts enrollment in community and private institutions. Through the program, the process of including transfer students more in the college culture is progressing rapidly.
OFIC Welcomes Dr. Michael Gilligan to Board of Trustees
Dr. Michael Gilligan
President Emeritus of the Henry Luce Foundation, New York
Dr. Michael Gilligan is President Emeritus of the Henry Luce Foundation, New York. Created in 1936 by Henry R. Luce, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Time Inc, the Luce Foundation today offers support for the knowledge sector: colleges and universities, museums, research libraries and think tanks. During Gilligan’s presidency, the foundation awarded more than $500 million of grants, grew its assets under management by 50%, and launched new initiatives in historic program areas: Asian studies, American art, women in STEM, public policy and international relations, theology, and leadership development.
The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges connects students from our 33 member campuses with Ohio’s top corporations and foundations to make the dream of completing a college education a reality through scholarships, internships, and full-time career opportunities. We’re honored to welcome Michael to our Board of Trustees. Learn more at ofic.org.
OFIC Welcomes Amy Bartter as Regional Vice President for Development, Northeast/Southeast Ohio
Passionate, higher education advocate to lead philanthropic growth by connecting Ohio’s top corporations to students from independent campuses through scholarship support and career opportunities
The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) today announces the appointment of Amy Bartter as the Regional Vice President for Development, Northeast and Southeast Ohio.
Amy Bartter, OFIC Regional Vice President for Development, Northeast/Southeast Ohio
OFIC President Bill Spiker shared, “We are excited to welcome Amy. She brings a wealth of knowledge about greater Cleveland and fantastic experiences with higher ed and other non-profit organizations. She will help us expand both current and new relationships with businesses, foundations, and individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of independent college students through scholarship fundraising and career connections.”
Bartter’s most recent advancement position was with Miami University as the Director of Regional Development Northeast Ohio. She has worked for three additional universities in Ohio including OFIC member-campus John Carroll University, as well as the Cleveland Institute of Art, and Case Western Reserve University.
“I am enthusiastic about joining OFIC and expanding our outreach and support in Northeast and Southeast Ohio,” said Bartter. “I value the importance of higher education and appreciate the scholarship support OFIC donors make available to assist Ohio students with fulfilling their dream of a college education.”
Northeast and Southeast Ohio are ripe for the corporate and foundation campus connections Bartter will strengthen and forge. Team NEO, a JobsOhio regional partner, recently stated that Northeast Ohio contains, “Well over 800 business headquarters, a workforce of 2 million, and top rankings for corporate investment, business climate, and logistics.”
OFIC connects students across 33 member campuses with Ohio’s top corporations and foundations to make the dream of completing their bachelor’s degree a reality through scholarships, internships, and career opportunities. Learn more at ofic.org.
Ohio 500 Recognizes Eight OFIC Connections
Who are the most powerful and influential people in Ohio? There are many, to be sure, but who are the men and women who are truly working to make our state great?
In this inaugural feature, we decided to answer that very question. We asked our readers to fill out an online survey, spoke with our partners, reached out to community leaders and did our own research to create the 2022 Ohio 500.
But this feature is more than a list of people—it’s a look at what leadership means in the state of Ohio. In addition to the list, we have stories that profile influential Ohioans, describe our state’s business history and delve into what’s happening in Ohio’s business’ community today. Ohio is a state that is looking to grow, and these are the leaders that are helping to make that happen.
The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges is honored to have eight trustees included in the esteemed list:
Jim Carulas, Meaden & Moore, Cleveland
Bob Helmer, Baldwin Wallace University
Rob Huntington, Heidelberg University
Alan Miciak, John Carroll University
Bill Spiker, OFIC
Taylor Oswald, Eddie Taylor
Jane Wood, Bluffton University
Carmen Ambar, Oberlin College
OFIC Welcomes Yvette Hunsicker to Board of Trustees
Yvette Hunsicker
Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and the Office of Inclusion and Diversity, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Marysville, Ohio
Yvette Hunsicker is Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and Inclusion & Diversity at American Honda Motor Co., Inc., where she leads Honda’s philanthropic and inclusion and diversity initiatives across the U.S., overseeing the Honda USA Foundation and community relations programs, and working to advance inclusion and equity both within the company and society.
Hunsicker’s career at Honda has spanned more than 30 years, including a broad range of roles and leadership positions. She joined Honda at age 19 as a welding associate in a manufacturing plant and steadily advanced through the company’s manufacturing operations while earning her bachelor’s degree in business management. These experiences have given Hunsicker a unique perspective on Honda’s diversity, equity, and inclusion.
A major focus for Hunsicker is Honda’s workforce diversity. Her leadership has resulted in several changes to HR’s hiring practices to create diverse interview panels, mentorship and sponsorship programs, Business Resource Groups (BRGs), and inclusive leadership & anti-racism training programs, and ensure equitable promotions. Hunsicker developed a metric to guide the company’s commitment to reflecting society at every level of the organization, particularly in leadership by 2030.
As part of Honda's efforts to promote equality in its workforce and society, Hunsicker also led the company’s release of its first inclusion & Diversity Report in 2022. The report outlines Honda's commitments to advancing inclusion and diversity and shares recent actions the company has taken, including key initiatives within its workforce and the communities where Honda associates live and work. Honda was also recognized by DiversityInc as one of the Top 50 Companies for Diversity based on the efforts outline in the report.
Honda has had a 30-plus year relationship with historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Under Hunsicker’s leadership, Honda has enhanced these relationships and expanded the company’s connection with institutions supporting HBCUs. In 2019, Hunsicker formed a partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) to create affordable paths for students pursuing an education in engineering, supply chain management and manufacturing-related fields. In 2022, Hunsicker was appointed TMCF’s board of directors. Hunsicker also has been instrumental in fostering Honda’s holistic approach with HBCU students and graduates, including providing co-op and employment opportunities and highlighting student achievement through programs such as the Honda Campus All-Star Challenge and the Honda Battle of the Bands.
Hunsicker also serves on the Columbus, Ohio YWCA Board of Directors, the Eagle Rock School and Professional Development Center Board of Directors, the National Diversity Council Board of Directors, the Ohio Diversity Council Board of Directors, and is a member of The Conference Board Global Diversity & Inclusion Executive Council.
OFIC connects students across 33 member campuses with Ohio’s top corporations and foundations to make the dream of completing a college education a reality through scholarships, internships, and career opportunities. Learn more at ofic.org.
The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges Distributes $105,600 in CIC/UPS Scholarships to 33 of Ohio’s Private Colleges and Universities
One student from each campus received a scholarship thanks to CIC/UPS
OFIC’s 33 member campuses span the entire state, with combined enrollment totaling over 80,000 students
Columbus, OH -- The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) has distributed $105,600 in CIC/UPS Scholarships to assist 33 students at independent colleges and universities in Ohio. The scholarships were made possible by a grant from the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) in Washington, DC, through the CIC/UPS Educational Endowment.
“OFIC is honored to receive this scholarship gift from CIC/UPS to provide to students to help achieve their educational goals,” President of OFIC, Bill Spiker said.
Nationally, CIC provided more than $1.4 million in student scholarships through state-based associations to make independent colleges and universities more affordable and accessible to underserved students.
One student from each of OFIC’s 33 member campuses received CIC/UPS Scholarships this year.
“The Council of Independent Colleges is proud to support nearly 450 low-income, first-generation, minority, and new American students in 26 states through the CIC/UPS Scholarships,” said Marjorie Hass, president of the Council of Independent Colleges. “Through our partnership with The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges, these scholarships help individual students pursue their education at one of Ohio’s superb independent colleges and universities.”
The CIC/UPS Scholarships Program has made a private college education possible for more than 21,000 low-income, first generation, and minority students and has had a transformative impact on individuals, families, and communities across the country.
Listed below are the names of the OFIC scholars who received a $3,200 CIC/UPS Scholarship gift:
Raymel Bowden- Sport Management
Rachel McElwain- Theatre Design and Tech Studies
Megan King- Primary Education
Hanna Acheampong- Biology (Pre-Med)
Zachary Cavin- Political Science
Armando Campos-Ortiz- Business
Luke Landis- History
Sonya Arellano- Psychology
Celest Banks- Business Administration
Meghan Bame- Education
Lauren Felvus- Undeclared
Alexander Jandi- Computer Science
Carissa Kieger- Film Studies
Leon Hughes- Communications
Taylor Morgan- Criminal Justice
Coralee Hochstedler- Communication, Journalism and Related Programs
Roji Odari- Special Education
William Sweetman- Mathematics
Alex Burton- Nursing
Steven Evans- Marketing
Teagan Hughes- Politics
Michael Knoll- Exercise Science
Adia Welch- Pharmacy
Jeremiah Anderson- Psychology
Fatemeh Mosavi- Allied Health
Carolina Gonzales- History
Emma Carmpenter- Exercise Science
Damir Simmons- Forensic Psychology
Peter Collier- English
Laney Meister- Art Therapy
Cassie Dawson- Digital Marketing and Analytics
Emalyn Menges- Education Studies
Brice Hill- Management
About the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC)
The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges believes all students who enroll at a member campus deserve the opportunity to complete their college education. Every day we connect and partner with corporations and foundations to make this dream possible by helping to keep education affordable through scholarships, internships and career opportunities. Our goal is to facilitate an exceptional appreciation of independent higher education and its impact on the state of Ohio’s citizens, economy, and culture. Through OFIC’s Scholarship Management Resources, we create national scholarship opportunities by partnering with organizations in Ohio and beyond. Learn more at ofic.org.
About the Council of Independent Colleges
The Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) is an association of 758 nonprofit independent colleges and universities, state-based councils of independent colleges, and other higher education affiliates, that works to support college and university leadership, advance institutional excellence, and enhance public understanding of independent higher education’s contributions to society. CIC is the major national organization that focuses on services to leaders of independent colleges and universities and state-based councils. CIC offers conferences, seminars, publications, and other programs and services that help institutions improve educational quality, administrative and financial performance, student outcomes, and institutional visibility. CIC also conducts the largest annual conferences of college and university presidents and of chief academic officers in the United States. Founded in 1956, CIC is headquartered at One Dupont Circle in Washington, DC. For more information, visit www.cic.edu.
About The UPS Foundation
Since its founding in 1907, UPS has built a legacy as a caring and responsible corporate citizen, supporting programs that provide long-term solutions to community needs. Founded in 1951, the UPS Foundation leads its global citizenship programs and is responsible for facilitating community involvement to local, national, and global communities. The foundation’s philanthropic approach centers on four focus areas: health & humanitarian relief, equity and economic empowerment, local engagement, and planet protection. To UPS, giving means combining employees' skills, passion and time with the company’s logistics expertise, transportation assets, and charitable donations to make a measurable difference in society.
How Ohio is Winning Talent
Businesses have been grasping to find workers that are the best fit for their companies. As the employment pool seems to dwindle, this task proves to be more difficult than past years.
Ohio has found its niche to win the war for talent. From earning a good salary to living in a balanced culture, the midwestern state has endless opportunities for those ready to jump start their careers.
According to Inc.com, the “war for talent” is the changing landscape for attracting and retaining talent, becoming more complicated and challenging. Today, millennials are still the largest demographic in the workforce, but not for long. Gen Z is slowly starting to creep up as college graduates are beginning to look for their lifelong careers.
With a college degree, communication skills and great work ethic, the job market will be ready to hire you once you graduate.
Employers are not only looking for people to work for them, but the ones who hone the best skills to help the business thrive.
When looking for a place to settle, the options are never ending, but Ohio makes it hard to choose another place to live.
According to Ohio is for Leaders, Ohio is the most affordable state in the country, which is almost necessary to those fresh out of college, trying to get on their feet. It is also the sixth best state for opportunity. Currently, there are a plethora of high-demand job positions that need to be filled. Ohio has the 21st largest economy globally, but it only continues to grow. The state also has three major innovation districts that also happen to be part of the top ten technology markets: Cincinnati, Cleveland and Columbus.
Cleveland is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Playhouse Square on top of its endless job opportunities.
Ohio is the 3rd best state for business climate. The buckeye state is known for its worth ethic. The motto “generational grit lives here” rings true within the population.
Commute time is generally shorter in the state. As Ohio is centrally located, there is an easily accessible hub with an advanced interstate highway system and several international airports.
Aside from work life, the heart of the U.S. provides its residents with an authentic, safe community with plenty to do both indoors and outdoors. The larger cities are filled with food, drinks, art and entertainment for an evening out on the town. Hiking trails are available in many areas and provide beautiful views all over the state. Cheering on local sports teams on the weekends either at home, tailgating with friends or maybe even at the stadium is a favorite past time.
Located in Hocking County, Hocking Hills State Park provides Ohioans challenging hiking trails and beautiful views.
Choosing a location that not only has a good career to pursue, but also provides a place that feels like home is important. Choosing Ohio means choosing affordability, convenience and greatness.
Why Choose Graduates from Ohio’s Top Independent Campuses?
Are you looking for an employee that goes above and beyond in the work field? Or someone who brings new ideas to the table to make your organization better?
OFIC’s 33 Member Campuses Span the Entire State, totaling over 80,000 students
In today’s environment, it can be hard to find employees that hone the skills you are looking to add to your company. The demand for educated workers is on the rise, and OFIC‘s 33 independent campus. graduates are sure to excel in your employee expectations.
Pursuing higher education is a great way for any student to grow and gain necessary skills for future career paths. How a student chooses to spend their college years greatly impacts their takeaway and position of professional readiness. Independent colleges can better prepare their students for future jobs with opportunities public universities are not able to provide.
Kaylee Klepper, a student at the University of Mount Union, says she chose a private college because of the unique qualities the independent school had to offer.
“I like the small classroom atmosphere and I wanted to have more personal interactions with my professors and my classmates,” Klepper said.
With the ability to have smaller class sizes and increase individual attention, OFIC‘s graduates are ready to succeed beyond campus gates.
Completion of a degree is no small task and is a monumental achievement for any student. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, overall, private universities tend to see higher percentages of graduating students than public universities.
As OFIC is committed to promoting diversity, inclusion and equity, graduation rates within the 33 independent colleges and private universities in general, are noticeably higher than public education facilities. The graph above provides these statistics.
OFIC students stand out among other graduates because of their individual and unique experiences they are able to have through a private institution. They have been prepped for success and are ready to dive into the workforce.
Choose success. Choose OFIC graduates. Show your support with a gift today.
Independent Higher Education Enrollment Outlook
Unforeseen and uncertain are the two best words to describe the past two years. COVID-19 has negatively impacted many areas, including college enrollment.
According to npr.org, enrollment numbers have been down 6.6% since the fall of 2019. Students are uninterested in spending the money to go to a college or university if they are not receiving the full experience they are hoping for.
Npr.org also states, with unemployment being down, it is easy for young adults to find a job that has a high wage, but requires little skill.
Although there may seem to be many valid reasons to “skip college,” especially on the heels of a pandemic, receiving a degree will lead you to many more opportunities throughout your lifetime.
Earn 75% More Income with a Bachelor’s Degree
The graph above shows how having a higher education leaves less room for unemployment.
Research has shown for many years that people who go to college make more money over their lifetime compared to those who do not. A study from Georgetown University found bachelor's degree holders were found to "earn a median of $2.8 million during their career, 75% more than if they had only a high school diploma."
OFIC President Bill Spiker observes, “Success is measured in so many ways for OFIC graduates. The stats show the dramatic and positive financial benefits of a bachelor's degree. That alone is a motivator, but there’s so much more that comes from graduating from an independent campus. Our alumni are more engaged in civic activity and community involvement, they vote at higher levels, they are more adaptable in times of economic uncertainty and times of growth as we are anticipating here in Ohio. Bottom line, having a degree is a great way to protect your economic future and a pathway to lead your best life!”
“Bachelor’s degree holders were found to earn a median of $2.8 million during their career, 75% more than if they had only a high school diploma.”
Many students also fear they will be paying too much money for a mediocre college experience. The first year of Covid-19 was full of uncertainty and doubt, especially for universities. Since then, faculty have become more sufficient in online learning. Many colleges are also offering programs that are designed to be online, making the learning process easier for students.
Hear from Kaylee, an OFIC Scholar
Kaylee Klepper, a risk management insurance major at the University of Mount Union says COVID-19 has actually helped her for her future by learning how a virtual workplace can be just as professional as having an in-person job.
“I had an internship that was almost completely online, and if I hadn’t gotten used to the structure of my [online] classes, I definitely wouldn’t have been prepared for that,” Klepper said.
“Kaylee is not alone in her experience. Workers across the country have adapted to a changing workplace. And while our campuses have been back to in-person instruction for over a year, the growth in online, remote and virtual experiences are very transferable,” continued Spiker.
College can be a challenging, large investment, and OFIC believes every student that enrolls at a member campus deserves the opportunity to complete their college education, no matter your background. In a recent study released by the National Center for Education Statistics, numbers showed independent, private campuses had higher percentages of success than public universities.
People with a higher education were less concerned about unemployment during a pandemic.
OFIC connects corporate, foundation, and individual donors to students with financial need. This connection is an investment that changes lives and has a direct local impact on the pool of talent in corporate Ohio’s pipeline.
Ian Lu, a computer science major from John Carroll university, is very thankful for the Lynden Family Scholarship he has been awarded through OFIC.
“For this is the true gift that this scholarship provides, not only is it a wonderful opportunity to relieve financial stress, but it is a reminder to keep pushing forward and strive for nothing short of perfection,” Lu said.
Our OFIC campuses offer a fit for everyone as some are larger and some are smaller. Regardless of which of our 33 campuses you decide to attend, you will receive a quality education in an environment that is supportive and personalized. Our faculty are in the classroom, laboratory, studio, and stage. You can continue and develop new interests in sports, organizations, and activities on campus that are truly transformative. The entire campus community will literally and figuratively cheer you on for your successes on campus and beyond as alumni. You will form relationships that will last a lifetime and which will add to your business and social life. And, that ‘campus fit’ can make all the difference while you’re in college and throughout your career and life.
Deciding to enroll in higher education is a big decision. With the help of OFIC, the transition into college can be a breeze. Make an impact on a student’s future, give today.
What to Know About Ohio's Independent Colleges
Ohio can be attributed to its successful sports teams, agriculture and metropolis cities, but what really makes Ohio stand out is the option to attend one of the outstanding independent colleges that call Ohio home. From Marietta College to Walsh University, the opportunities are endless for freshman students.
According to the California Student Aid Commision, the definition of an independent college is a nonprofit, private college that is not run by a government organization.
One of the biggest stigmas surrounding independent universities is the expensive cost of tuition holding students back from pursuing their goals where they feel most comfortable. According to data found by the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Ohio (AICUO), Ohio independent colleges are more cost effective than other higher education options. Before student loans and scholarship awards, the average amount a student spends on tuition at a private campus is $95,711. This is comparatively lower than a student will spend at a public university where they may have to stay an extra year or two to complete their degree.
Statistics show Ohio’s private colleges overall are a great opportunity for students to earn a degree, but may not spend as much time and dollars doing so.
Independent universities also offer college students a unique four years by providing:
smaller class sizes
more one on one time with professors
immersive internships in their field
Graduation rates within private colleges are higher than public universities in Ohio. According to AICUO, 14% more students graduate in four years at a private college versus those who attend a public campus.
Receiving a Bachelor’s degree is no small accomplishment. With higher graduation rates at independent colleges means the sooner students are getting out into the work field pursuing a career and are able to pay off student loans quicker.
To help students achieve their goal of receiving a diploma, The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) helps by “soliciting financial support from corporate donors that believe strongly in higher education. Our approach is personal and life changing— connecting students with donors and empowering donors to design scholarships that have a direct impact on Ohio students, their local community and their future employees.”
For more information about OFIC or statistics of Ohio’s independent colleges conducted by AICUO, click the pdf’s below.
Midwest Roundtable on Talent 2022
OFIC was honored to participate in the 2022 Midwest Roundtable on Talent hosted by the Michigan Colleges Alliance at the iconic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Midwest Roundtable on Talent is a one-of-a-kind gathering dedicated to cross-sector dialog and collaboration to advance student outcomes:
Connecting business leaders and 70+ college presidents from across the Midwest to spark innovation, problem solving, and partnerships in preparing graduates from small private universities and colleges to succeed in the 21st century workplace.
Featured nationally-recognized, inspiring speakers and interactive sessions.
Presented by OFIC partner, Credo, and Dynamic Campus.
“It was exciting to have so many bright minds together in one room to strategize the best, most efficient and scalable ways to propel student potential in today’s workforce,” stated OFIC President, Bill Spiker. “Having the opportunity to engage with peers and friends across the region was incredible,” continued Spiker.
OFIC was asked to present PSA videos around current talent programs. Our first video spoke to the highly competitive job market and need for a steady stream of top talent.
Our second video featured a dynamic partnership formed between an OFIC donor, Encova, and member campus, Ohio Dominican University.