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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2006 

 

 (Photos by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist)

                                          Tech Prep Showcase Competition

Shawnee State University (SSU) hosted on Feb. 24 the annual Tech Prep Showcase Competition, an event coordinated by the Ohio South Tech Prep Consortium that allows students to work in teams or individually to develop projects related to their Tech Prep high school programs.

 

 From left to right) Nick Montavon, Brandy Lute, and Christie Norman from the Scioto County Joint Vocational School, won 1st place in the Health division for their showcase on animal abuse.

 

SSU Professor Debbie Risner and Director of Preprofessional Services/Education Paul Madden judge Kara Moore’s project, which took 3rd place in the Education division of the competition.  Moore is from the Collins Career Center/Dawson-Bryant High School.

 

(From left to right) Pictured are Nick Legg, Nick Dean, T.J. Oyer, and Jake Burton from the Pike County Career Tech Center, placed first in the Information Services/Systems category.  

Winners of this event are as follows:
Business:
First Place:
Students: Deana Sherman, Juanita Wilson, Morgan Koenig
Collins Career Center/Dawson-Bryant High School  (Lawrence County)  
Second Place:
Students: Kayla Boggs, Hannah Collins, Taylor Leach, Angie Reffitt
Collins Career Center/Dawson-Bryant High School (Lawrence County)  
Third Place:
Zach Abrams, Danielle Columbro, R.C. Lewis, Bobbie Watson
Collins Career Center/Dawson-Bryant High School (Lawrence County)  
Engineering:
First Place:
Students: Adam Cook, Kyle McGraw, Brandyn Ward
Pike County Career Center
Second Place:
Students: Ryan Appleton, Evan Baer, Dustin Woodruff
Pike County Career Center
Third Place:
Students: Adam Cook, Kyle McGraw, Brandyn Ward
Pike County Career Center
Health:
First Place:
Students: Brandee Lute, Nick Montavon, Christie Norman
Scioto County JVS
Second Place:
Students: Kim Harless
Collins Career Center  (Lawrence Co.)
Third Place:
Students: Brittany Curington, Brittany Sexton
Collins Career Center  (Lawrence Co.)
Interactive Media:
First Place:
Students: Joseph Conley,  Ryan Rose, Toni Ward
Pike County Career Center
Second Place:
Students: Corey Belville, Justin Kelley, Holly Madden, Blake Roth, Joey Zornes
Ironton High School
Information Systems/Services:
First Place:
Students: Jake Burton, Nick Dean, Nick Legg, T.J. Oyer
Pike County Career Center
Education/Teacher Preparation:
First Place:
Students: Susan Jaime, Erik McWhorter, Olivia Price
Collins Career Center/Chesapeake High School (Lawrence Co.)
Second Place:
Students: Shannon Steward
Collins Career Center/Dawson-Bryant High School (Lawrence Co.)
Third Place:
Students: Kara Moore
Collins Career Center/Dawson-Bryant High School (Lawrence Co.)

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2006 

 

Children's Learning Center Book Fair


                                       

Shawnee State Park naturalist Jenny Richards reads a book about insects to students at the Dr. Miller and Genevieve Toombs Children's Learning Center (CLC), located on Shawnee State University's campus, as part of the CLC's "Camp Read-a-Book" Scholastic Book Fair activities going on this week. The book fair is open to the public from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. for the remainder of the week.

 

Troy Newman of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and his wife Rachelle teach the children at the Dr. Miller and Genevieve Toombs Children's Learning Center (CLC), located on Shawnee State University's campus, about the importance of water safety on Tuesday, Feb. 28 as part of events for the Scholastic "Camp Read-a-Book" book fair. The couple read a book about different types of boats and taught students about boating safety with a demonstration. The Newman's son Pete, a CLC student, assisted his parents and explained his father's tools and gadgets to his classmates. The book fair is open to the public from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. for the rest of the week.  

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist)

SHAWNEE STATE THEATER TO PRESENT WINTER QUARTER PLAYS 

            The Shawnee State University (SSU) Theater will be presenting several plays as a winter quarter production this year.  Five new one act plays open March 8th at 7:30 p.m. and run through March 11th in the Kahl Studio Theater, located in the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts.  Tickets for all SSU students, faculty, staff, and military personnel are $5, and $6 for the general public.
            The production is the brainchild of Lorri Tipton and adjunct professor of theater Jim Hayes, and is part of New Millennium Plays, a new international competition first presented three years ago in collaboration with the SSU theater department.  The finalists were chosen by Hayes and Tipton, who read scores of submissions. 
            “I designed the program when I first started this company as a way to support new playwrights and introduce the community to new work,” said Tipton.  “This company has since evolved into A Working Theatre Company, which is an incorporated semi-professional theatre company based in Portsmouth.  Jim Hayes and I worked together on Plays for a New Millennium from the first, and we are co-directors of A Working Theatre Company.  Jim’s unique personality as a director has been stamped on the productions from the beginning”.
            This year, several SSU students and recent graduates will read through the submissions and direct a short play which they have chosen.  Afterward, the competition winner will be decided by the audience in a secret ballot vote.
            Nathan Wheeler will direct the satiric and topical 10- minute piece by Thomas H. Diggs titled “Harper Lee’s Husband.”  Through the protagonists, “In Cold Blood” author Truman Capote and “To Kill a Mockingbird” author Harper Lee, the play presents an “In Cold Blood”-styled fictionalized account of their relationship and Lee’s relationship with her “imaginary husband,” represented by an inflatable doll.
            Recent SSU graduate Shaun Umland will direct “Leftovers” by Scott McMorrow, which in the author’s own words “takes a candid and comedic look at the taboo subject of cannibalism.”
            Tipton has chosen to direct a satire of aspiring but untalented authors who submit their work to play festivals in “Festival!” submitted by playwright Eileen M. Nowak, who also plans to attend the performance on the 10th.
            “The Devil is in the Details,” a short play by Jill Elaine Hughes, will be directed by Kasey Wallace, a recent SSU theater.  In a Los Angeles drug cartel warehouse, a gang “executive” and his sculptor girlfriend argue over the body of a man they have just killed.
            Loren Keller will direct the tragic comedy “Three O’Clock” by Dennis Edelsen, a short piece in which four soldiers wait out an unspecified war in a trench, all dreaming of the same girl.  Edelsen plans to attend two of the performances.
            “These students and recent graduates are all very bright people and they all have a very unique style,” said Vivian Robson, associate professor of theater at SSU.   “They have all chosen very interesting pieces.”         
            The event is sponsored by the Shawnee State Theater and SSU’s Development Foundation.  For more information or to purchase tickets contact the McKinley Box Office at (740) 351-3600.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2006 

 

(Article by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist) 

CELL PHONE COLLECTION DRIVE TO BENEFIT THE MARCH OF DIMES

            The Shawnee State University (SSU) Women’s Forum will be collecting used cell phones for the March of Dimes throughout March as part of Women’s History Month activities.
            The March of Dimes collects used cell phones as part of a national campaign to help fund the research of birth defects. The March of Dimes sells the phones to ReCellular, Inc. According to their website www.wirelessrecycling.com, the company pays the March of Dimes an average of $4 per phone but may pay more than $10 for newer phones. ReCellular, Inc. refurbishes the newer phones and uses older ones for parts.
            Debra Knutson, Ph.D., suggested the Women’s Forum participate in the cell phone drive to honor Virginia Apgar, Ph.D.
            According to www.pbs.org, in 1933 Apgar became one of first women to graduate from Columbia University with a medical degree despite financial hardships brought on by the Great Depression. In 1952, Apgar invented the Apgar test, which evaluates the vitality of a newborn based on pulse, respiration, muscle tone, color, and reflexes. The Apgar test, still in use today, is credited with saving countless infant lives by detecting birth defects quickly and recognizing trauma caused by birth.
            “Most people do not know that Dr. Apgar was a female,” said Shannon Lawson, Women’s Forum member and chair of the Women’s History Month committee. “We picked March of Dimes because of the connection to Apgar.”
            According to Lawson, the Women’s Forum wanted to inform people about the great things women have accomplished by recognizing a historical female figure who people wrongly assume to be male.
             “All cell phones, even the old bag phones, can help the March of Dimes,” said Lawson.  
            Forum members will collect phones throughout the month of March. Collection points include:
·                              The Clark Memorial Library
·                              The English and math department on the fourth floor of Massie Hall
·                              The writing center in the basement of the administration building room 031
·                              The Student Success Center
·                              The ground floor of Kricker Hall
·                              The Advanced Technology Center (ATC) in the lobby near BASICS
·                              The University Center (UC) in front of the Student Activities office
             For more information on the drive, contact Knutson via email at dknutson@shawnee.edu. For more information on the March of Dimes mission, visit www.marchofdimes.com.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2006 

 

Mary Tomlin Retires

Mary Tomlin, associate director of financial aid, who has served the Shawnee State University (SSU) community since 1975, was honored Tuesday, Feb. 28 at her retirement party.  

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2006 

 

(Article by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist) 

                                                  SSU OFFERS COMPUTER TRAINING
            Shawnee State University (SSU), through the office of Business and Industry Training Services, will offer computer-training courses during March and April.  
            “We are offering a wide array of workshops which include Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, PowerPoint, web page design, and understanding Windows software,” said Brenda Covert, Education for Business and Industry manager. “The classes are three hours in length and individuals have the option of taking the classes during the day or evening.
            Each class costs $39 but participants can take two classes for $69 or three for $99. Any interested individual can take the classes, including community members, SSU staff, and students. 
           “This is an excellent deal,” said Covert.
           Classes include:

  • "Microsoft Word: Basics” on March 6 from 9 a.m. until noon and on March 7 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft Word: Creating Forms and Templates for User Input” on March 6 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. and on March 14, 6-9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft Word: Streamlining Mailings with Mail Merge” on March 13 from 9 a.m. until noon
  • “Microsoft Excel: Basics” on March 14 from 9 a.m. until noon and on March 20 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft Excel: Advanced Editing and Formulas” on March 14 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. and on March 27 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft Excel: Designing Databases that Work” on March 28 from 9 a.m. until noon
  • “Microsoft Project Management with Excel” on March 28 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.
  • “Microsoft PowerPoint: Basics” on March 20 from 9 a.m. until noon and on March 21 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft PowerPoint: Pushing PowerPoint to the Limit” on March 20 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. and on March 28 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft Access: Basics” on April 3 from 9 a.m. until noon and on April 4 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft Access: Building Queries and Managing Data” on April 10 from 9 a.m. until noon
  • “Microsoft Access: Creating Forms for Easy Input” on April 3 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.
  • “Microsoft Outlook: Emailing Basics” on April 11 from 9 a.m. until noon and on April 17 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft Outlook: Unleash the Power of Contact Management” on April 11 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. and on April 18 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft FrontPage: Web Page Design” on April 18 from 9 a.m. until noon and on April 24 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
  • “Microsoft Windows: Skills for Home and Work” on April 18 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. and on April 25 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Dan White, university information services (UIS) manager, will teach the classes.
            For more information or to register, call (740) 351-3304 or 866 672-8778.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2006 

 

(Photo by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist) 

                                                         Countdown to Commencement

                                                                   

 Shawnee State University (SSU) graduating seniors were able to complete many of required graduation tasks at once thanks to the "Countdown to Commencement" held on Tuesday, Feb. 28 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. The event, sponsored by the participating offices, allowed students to get help from various offices and to ask questions about graduation requirements. Offices participating included the registrar's office, financial aid, the SSU bookstore, career services, and the alumni association. Students also ordered graduation announcements and class rings from Herff Jones. Over 160 students attended the event.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 2, 2006 

 

(Photo by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

Hair and the Feminine Image 

                                                           

On March 1, Roberta Milliken, Ph.D., associate professor of English at Shawnee State University (SSU), presented “Hair and the Feminine Image” at the Southern Ohio Museum of Art in Portsmouth.  Her presentation, a depiction of women in art and literature of the Middle Ages, was given in celebration of March being Women’s History Month.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 3, 2006 

 

(Article by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist) 

SSU PROFESSOR FORMING BALLROOM DANCING CHAPTER 

            Shawnee State University (SSU) accounting professor Steve Doster, DBA, can dance his way through most situations.  
             Doster, an accounting professor at SSU since 1986, dedicates his free time to ballroom dancing. He began introductory group lessons in 1999 and has attended lessons and events over the years to improve his technique.
            “Ballroom dancing has undergone a resurgence of popularity because of films like ‘Shall We Dance’ and ‘Mad Hot Ballroom’ as well as reality shows like ‘Ballroom Bootcamp’ and ‘Dancing with the Stars,’” said Doster.
            According to Doster, others on campus enjoy his hobby.
            Dan Moore, Ph.D., Lois Rase, Julia Coll, Ph.D., Joyce McCall, Ruthie Heffner, Lindsey McRoberts, and Ray Carson, Ph.D. also share Doster’s enthusiasm for ballroom dancing.
            Doster has served as both student and teacher of ballroom dancing.
            “My most memorable learning experience was when I enrolled in theatrical tango, taught by visiting professor Bruce Marrs on SSU’s campus,” said Doster. “The course spanned 10 weeks, during which Marrs did a masterful job of teaching the technique and energy of tango to experienced dancers as well as to relative beginners like myself.”
            Doster teaches beginning dance classes both in and outside of the classroom.
            “Julia Coll and I have taught the tango many times on campus,” said Doster. “We taught her advanced Spanish students at the 2005 International Day. I also assisted Lois Rase, a professional dance instructor and SSU Bear Cubs program coordinator, in teaching the foxtrot, waltz, and swing to Upward Bound students during the summer. I also assist Lois in teaching these same dances to adults, as well as Latin dances such as the rumba, cha-cha, and tango.”
            Doster and Coll recently performed at the 2006 International Culture and Cuisine Day which included teaching students basic tango.  
            Doster hopes to eventually compete in the bronze category of ballroom dancing as an amateur in the future. He recently attended a national dance competition in Sarasota, Fla. as a spectator and received encouragement to enter a competition.
            Doster, a former vice-president of USA Dance (formerly U.S. Amateur Ballroom Dancers Association) in Kentucky, hopes to start a similar chapter in the Portsmouth Area.
            “USA Dance chapter activities vary, but typically include hosting one dance per month and supporting group dance lessons at the introductory, and sometimes the intermediate level,” said Doster.
            Anyone interested in ballroom dancing opportunities, such as lessons, dances, or competitions, or in establishing a Portsmouth chapter of USA Dance should contact Doster by email (preferably) at tangoman@maysvilleky.net or by calling (740) 351-3466 (work) or (606) 759-7457 (home).

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 3, 2006 

 

(Photo by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist)

SSU Children’s Learning Center Book Fair 

Shawnee State University (SSU) geology professor Jeffrey Bauer, Ph.D., teaches children from the Dr. Miller and Genevieve Toombs Children's Learning Center (CLC), located on SSU's campus, about rocks and fossils on Wednesday, March 1 as part of the events for the "Camp Read-a-Book" Scholastic book fair going on this week. The book fair is open to the public from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. for the remainder of the week.

Miss Jenny, the naturalist from Shawnee State Park, reads nature books to the children of the CLC.  Miss Jenny taught the students about insects and reptiles.

Mr. Steve, a local school guidance counselor and scout master, gives the children of the CLC a lesson in patriotism.  Mr. Steve and the children gathered around the campfire to learn about the American flag.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 3, 2006 

 

SSU PRESIDENT MORRIS TESTIFIES BEFORE HIGHER EDUCATION FUNDING STUDY COUNCIL 

          Shawnee State University (SSU) president Rita Rice Morris, Ph.D. presented the following testimony on Thursday, March 2nd during a meeting of the Higher Education Funding Study Council (HEFSC) in Columbus.
          The HEFSC was created in the state budget and charged with reviewing all aspects of higher education funding contained in the state budget and recommending any changes it determines are necessary.
          The HEFSC will issue a report of its activities, findings and recommendations to the Governor, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President of the Senate by May 31, 2006.

(FOLLOWING IS PREPARED TESTIMONY.  THE TESTIMONY AS PRESENTED MAY HAVE VARIED FROM THE TEXT.) 

Testimony of
Rita Rice Morris, Ph.D., President
Shawnee State University
Prepared for Presentation to the
Higher Education Funding Study Council
March 2, 2006

          Chairman Webster and distinguished members of the Higher Education Funding Study Council.  Thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to speak for a few minutes about Shawnee State University and the role we play in serving Southern Ohio as a high quality regional university.
          As you consider higher education’s role in preparing Ohioans for the challenges that lay before us, I ask you to remember: one size does not fit all.  Different universities fill different roles and serve different types of students.  Young people and non-traditional students need an array of options to enable them to meet their educational goals.
          Shawnee State is the newest state university, established in 1986 with a clear and singular mandate:  Make a difference in the lives of those who live in Southern Ohio.  We have been and will continue to strive to be a high quality regional university. 
           In achieving that mission we are constantly mindful of the Appalachian Ohio and first-generation college student populations we serve.  Fully two-thirds of our students are the first in their family to attend college.  These are students who are more likely to attend college if they can do so near to home and family.  Were it not for Shawnee State University these students might not have the opportunity to pursue a college degree – and the need for more college graduates is acute in the region.
          As you can see on the front page of the pamphlet I have handed out, the median household income in the counties from which Shawnee State primarily draws its students is over $10,000 less than that of Ohio and the United States.  It is no coincidence that while the percentage of Ohioans with a bachelor’s degree is about 22 percent, only about 10 percent of residents in the Shawnee State counties have achieved that level.  As the CHEE report notes, there is nearly a $20,000 difference between the average annual income of a high school graduate and an individual who possesses a bachelor’s degree.  We will not improve the level of income and the quality of life in Appalachian Ohio without increasing the number of individuals with a bachelor’s degree.
          Since 2001 Shawnee State has expanded access to a college education by increasing enrollment 13 percent.  We are one of several institutions that are open-access.  But we play many roles.  We are an important part of the array of postsecondary options for Ohio citizens.
          To provide the access that is central to our mission, it is vitally important we keep tuition low.  Research indicates our students are keenly sensitive to cost as they consider whether or not they should attend college. 
          Let me say that again – our students are not choosing what college to attend, but whether they should attend college at all.  That is how important keeping tuition low is to our mission of providing the opportunity of a college education to those who live in our region.
          I also ask the council to keep in mind that many students from Appalachian Ohio are academically at-risk.  They need special attention from a university that can meet their needs.  Shawnee State provides a small student-to-teacher ratio (about 14 to one) and services designed to help students unfamiliar with campus life to adjust to the demands of a college education.  We assess our students’ ability to meet their academic goals, and help in developing a plan to meet them.  If they are not sufficiently prepared, they take basic courses, typically in math and English.  Thereafter, they are like any other students and are expected to achieve the same level of performance as someone who came to Shawnee State with an ACT score of 28.
         We take our access mission very seriously, but we are committed to being a high quality regional university.  We provide the opportunity to attend college and challenge every student to achieve excellence.  We offer faculty and staff dedicated to bringing out the best in our students.  Our promise of a brighter future through a university education must not ring hollow.
          In demanding the best of our students, we expect the same level of performance as at any other university.  In the new knowledge economy, the coin of the realm in both higher education and business is a bachelor’s degree.  Shawnee State offers a number of associate degree programs which are typically fully enrolled and provide very marketable skills.  However, we encourage students to look upon an A.A. degree as the beginning of their college education, not the end.  This standard is supported by business leaders looking for highly trained employees.
          At Shawnee State, students can earn bachelor’s degrees in such fields as: fine, digital and performing arts, social sciences, natural sciences, mathematics, teacher education, business, pre-law and pre-med.  We have a thriving undergraduate research program.  This program is a Center of Excellence and links our students to Third Frontier projects.
          As of this date 100 percent of our current students graduating in pre-med who applied for admission to medical or dental school have been accepted.  In recent years our acceptance rate has been in the neighborhood of 90 percent.
          In the past 20 years we have graduate nearly 9,000 students.  Beyond our impact on individual students, Shawnee State has played and will continue to play a major role in the region.
          In two weeks this council will be considering economic development.  Shawnee State plays an important role in regional economic development as a major employer in Southern Ohio.  Based on a conservative 1.5 multiplier, an economic analysis placed the impact of our student and staff spending at over $54 million last year. 
          Our professional faculty and staff serve the community in leadership and volunteer roles.  Through our Office of Outreach Services, Shawnee State provided training to more than 160 local companies and about 50 government offices and agencies during the last school year.  Shawnee State partners with OSU’s Endeavor Center to provide training to the regional business community.  We also have entered partnerships with higher education institutions throughout the tri-state region.
          Shawnee State is also host to a number of postsecondary options.  We offer an on-campus GED program, and a full array of federal TRIO programs.  We are working with schools in three counties on Tech Prep, and are working with local schools and hospitals to develop a literacy council.  Our students are in the community teaching adults to read, we extend our health care education programming to the community, and in partnership with local schools and the Ohio Appalachian Center for Higher Education (OACHE) raise student awareness of the possibilities created by a college education.
          As I have mentioned, the vast majority of our students are from Southern Ohio.  They earn a degree at Shawnee State and use it to begin promising careers in the region.  Our programs are absolutely essential to the communities in Southern Ohio who depend on our graduates.  Shawnee State graduates are found in every niche of the local economy, and are particularly prominent in education and the allied health professions. 
          At Southern Ohio Medical Center, 100 percent of the current certified occupational therapists and physical therapy assistants are Shawnee State graduates.  About 80 percent of the staff at Pike Community Hospital calls Shawnee State their alma mater.
          I am very proud to say that Shawnee State has already made significant changes to better serve our students and the region.
          Our experience as a university is somewhat unique in that we have always provided educational opportunity to so-called “non-traditional students.”  Just a few years ago Shawnee State was almost exclusively a commuter university.  Our Board of Trustees decided to expand the opportunities at our university by enhancing the on-campus living experience.  In response we have formed a partnership with a local developer who has built residence halls without spending any taxpayer money.  This year we had 500 beds, and this fall we will add another 100, with more on the drawing board. 
          We have seen in the last few years’ growth in the number of full-time traditional students.  We are striking a very happy medium that brings together traditional and non-traditional students to create an exciting, dynamic learning environment in which students benefit from the experience of their fellow students as well as their professors.
          We may have increased enrollment, but too many of our students do not graduate.  Addressing that deficit is part of the reason we have undertaken a dramatic change in campus culture by switching from quarters to a semester calendar.
          Many of our students come to Shawnee State entirely unsure if they can succeed at college.  These students may be adequately prepared (many are not) but nothing in their culture tells them they can make it, or that they need to complete their education.  In a 10-week course one bad quiz at week five and these students are wondering if college is right for them.  The 15-week semester will give students more time to adapt to college, more time to learn the course material, more time to succeed.  The semester calendar will also allow them to enter the workplace sooner, something that prospective employers have strongly urged.
          There are a number of students who go away for college, but decide they want to be closer to home.  There are also students attracted to the academic programs at Shawnee State because of their high rate of placement upon graduation.
          About 40 percent of our graduates transfer into Shawnee State with prior college credit.  To facilitate the smoothest possible transition to our campus we are adding a new admissions officer with the specific responsibility of assisting transfer students.  I should also point out that transfer students are not included in completion rates.  In effect, Shawnee State must bear a lower apparent completion rate for providing safe harbor to transfer students.
          Shawnee State will be offering its first master’s degree this fall. The program was created in response to the Occupational Therapy field now requiring a master’s degree for licensure. Shawnee State already participates in a number of cooperative programs with other campuses to give our students the chance to undertake graduate-level work.  Nevertheless, we felt strongly that if we were to ensure a steady supply of licensed occupational therapists for our citizens and communities, we had to offer our own master’s degree program.
          At Shawnee State we are expanding the opportunity of individuals to attend college, we are offering new programs in fields that will help graduates secure bright futures, and we are adapting our campus to the needs of students.  We believe we are proceeding in the same spirit of reform that has inspired this council. 
          Yet our efforts to keep this promise of a high quality regional university serving the needs of our students and the surrounding region are being eroded by fiscal pressures.
          We have done what we can to squeeze the most out of every dollar received. In 2003 Shawnee State was the most efficiently run campus in Ohio.  Our expenditure per FTE was $7,996, more than $1,100 less than the second lowest campus. 
          Because of our efficiency, we are able to offer an annual tuition of about $5,500, second only to Central State as the lowest in Ohio. 
          As I have already noted, our students face the most challenges in earning a college degree, yet Shawnee State receives less support – in 2003 $474 less per FTE than the average main university campus – to help our students overcome these challenges.  As you can see on page three of the pamphlet, our state operating support per FTE has dropped from $6,204 in 2001 to $4,262 in 2004.  We suffered a decrease of almost $2,000 compared to the average drop for universities of $959.
          We are concerned that current funding discussions could lead to further reductions of resources.
          To help us meet the promise of being a high quality regional university in Southern Ohio, Shawnee State has received a special Supplement, about 15 percent of our current state support.  It has been whittled in recent years.  In 1995 the Supplement was $4.8 million, but this year it stands at $1.8 million, $200,000 below the $2 million funding point recommended in the 1994 report of the Board of Regents, which was commissioned by the General Assembly.
          Please consider the predicament we face.  At Shawnee State we are expanding opportunity by enrolling more students, and giving them the top-flight education they deserve.  Yet, at the same time that we are growing, our state funding has been diminishing and our tuition has been capped.  We are very concerned that reduced funding is threatening our continued capacity to fulfill our mission.  The money to run Shawnee State has got to come from somewhere. 
          I would ask the Higher Education Funding Study Council consider including in its report the following:
 •          Restore the five percent each year of the biennium in cuts to Shawnee State’s Special Supplement through a funding model that recognizes the access mission of Shawnee State.
 •          Consider additional funding models that are based on factors other than average cost.  Shawnee State’s funding per FTE is less than the statewide average because we are open-access and almost exclusively undergraduate in our program offerings.
 •          Lift the tuition cap so we have the flexibility to gradually secure resources currently at risk because of dramatically reduced funding. 
•          Identify access to undergraduate degrees as a funding priority.
 •          Recognize that universities will be unable to fulfill their role in the development of Ohio’s economy laid out in the CHEE report without sufficient investment by the state.
          Shawnee State cannot continue to serve more while receiving less.  Sooner or later something will have to give.  We want to do more.  We want to make a profound difference in Southern Ohio.  But we need the tools to do it.
          I know I speak for my colleagues in expressing our deep appreciation for the recognition regularly voiced by this council that Shawnee State and the other universities in Ohio are essential to the state’s re-birth.  I am at your disposal as you continue your work on behalf of the people of Ohio.
          Thank you for giving me this time.  I would be happy to answer any questions.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 7, 2006 

 

Saving Energy
By:  Butch Kotcamp
Director of Facilities

            We have all been stunned by the dramatic increase in utility costs over the last few months.  The university has responded by finding ways to reduce campus energy usage.  There are also steps we all can take to conserve energy.
            The natural gas unit price paid by the university has skyrocketed by approximately 50 percent in the last year alone.  Electricity will soon follow with scheduled rate increases of approximately 23 percent over the next three years – a 9 percent increase next year followed by seven percent increases in the subsequent two years.  Our current annual utility budget is approximately $1.12 million.
            The university is working hard to rein in energy costs.  We recently connected the HVAC systems of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts and the Library to take advantage of the newer, more efficient system in the Riffe Center.  This modification allows the Riffe Center’s heating and cooling system to supply the Library except during peak energy load requirements in the Riffe Center, such as performances in the main auditorium.
            Most campus buildings were already equipped with digitally-controlled HVAC systems that automatically adjust building temperatures during unoccupied times.  A major lighting retrofit for the Library is under review, as are projects to address other causes of high energy consumption.
            What can we all do to improve energy conservation at Shawnee State?
            To the extent possible, schedule as many off-peak events – before 8 a.m. and after 5 p.m., Monday through Friday – into as few buildings as possible.  Try to use Kricker Hall, as it is the campus’ most energy efficient building.  Our goal should be to eliminate the need for multiple buildings to accommodate open labs and other smaller functions.  Other good building candidates to house night and weekend events are the Library and the University Center which already operate extended hours.
            As buildings are renovated, we are installing occupancy sensors with the most efficient lighting fixtures.  However, for most of our buildings, we depend on you to turn off lights and any other office equipment when not in use.
            Please contact the Plant Department, x3458, regarding any change in event scheduling, cancellations, or any other alteration of building occupancy.  Doing so will allow staff to change the building HVAC schedule to increase efficiency.
            By simply changing a few habits we can conserve energy with no additional renovation costs and with no effect on our level of comfort. Working together, we can lessen the strain dramatically increased energy costs will put on the university’s operating budget by reducing how much energy we use.  That’s good for us, and good for the environment.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2006 

 

(Article by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist) 

            MERIWETHER OFFERING "FOUNDATIONS OF FAITH" CLASS DURING SPRING QUARTER

            Nicholas Meriwether, Ph.D., associate professor of philosophy at Shawnee State University (SSU), will offer “Foundations of Faith,” a philosophy class exploring Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
            According to Meriwether, the course will examine the origins of the three religions, their historical development in and their impact upon the West, including the Crusades, the Inquisition, and the wars of religion, and their relationship in modern times, including the sources of conflict and the prospects for peace in the Middle East.
            Course requirements include a midterm, final, one paper, and reading assignments.
            “With this class, I am trying to gauge student interest in a religious studies program,” said Meriwether. “Religious studies departments on public university campuses have a special role. The social sciences study religion as an object instead of as something in and of itself. Although these studies provide important information, religious people do not view their religion from this perspective, so it is important to study religion from the perspective of someone practicing the faith.”
            Class reading assignments will come from a newly published textbook, tailored to courses like this one, with contributions by Islamic, Jewish, and Christian scholars.
“It is also important to study important primary texts, like the Koran, to get an inside understanding,” said Meriwether. 
            Meriwether hopes to visit a mosque and synagogue in either Cincinnati or Columbus as part of the class.
            Some of the questions Meriwether hopes to discuss in the class include:

·         What are the unique contributions each religion has made to
Western Civilization?

·         Is conflict among the three faiths inevitable, especially between
Islam and the other two?

·         Are there resources within Islam for an enduring peace with other religions?

·         Can liberal democracy take hold in Islamic soil as easily as it has on Christian and Jewish soil?

            “Because the course is brand new, the format will be a bit more on the order of a symposium than a lecture,” said Meriwether. “I will also invite adherents of the three faiths to speak on the issues to the class.”
            The class will explore the future of the religions as well as the history and foundations of each faith.
           There are no prerequisites for the class, listed in the course catalog as “Philosophy 299.” The class will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays during spring quarter from 4:00 p.m. until 5:50 p.m.
            For more information, contact Meriwether by emailing nmeriwether@shawnee.edu or by calling (740) 351-3447.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2006 

 

(Article by Mistie Spicer, Communications Coordinator)

                                        SUNSHINE WEEK EVENT TO BE HELD AT SSU

           In observance of National Sunshine Week, March 13th through the 17th Shawnee State University’s (SSU) Clark Memorial Library in cooperation with the Portsmouth Public Library is sponsoring “Are We Safer in the Dark? A National Dialogue on Open Government and Secrecy”.
           Connie Salyers Stoner, the local event coordinator and associate director of public services at the Clark Memorial Library, said at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 13th there will be a telecast from the National Press Club in room 205 of the library.
          “They will be talking about secrecy in our government, the problems secrecy creates, and the real- life impact of unnecessary secrecy on ordinary Americans,” Stoner said.
          Those participating in the panel discussion from the National Press Club are Geneva Overholser, endowed Chair of the Missouri School of Journalism Bureau, who will serve as the moderator; Thomas Blanton, National Security Archive Director, Thomas M. Susman, Ropes and Gray Washington and Barbara Petersen, Florida First Amendment Foundation.
          “The National Press Club wants Americans to discuss how they use openness to keep communities safe and to examine at how government’s power to keep secrecy grows and the power of those secret keepers in our courts, in our Congress and in our executive branch. This undermines oversight.” Stoner said.
          Following the national telecast there will be a local community update on the Sunshine Law. Martin Susec, with the Ohio Attorney General’s office will give an overview of the state law and will lead a discussion about the effects of government secrecy on the lives of area citizens and what the public can do about it.
          Stoner said State Representative Todd Book will also give an update on House Bill 9 which enhances Ohio’s public records law and answer questions.
          “People should come if they are interested in having our legislator, our city council people and our county commissioners share with us how government really works and to make sure all of the discussions are out in the open,” Stoner said. “It’s up to the citizens to make sure that’s happening.”
          National Sunshine Week is sponsored by the American Library Association, American Association of Law Libraries, American Society of Newspaper Editors, Coalition of Journalists for Open Government, League of Women Voters, National Freedom of Information Coalition, www.OpenTheGovernment.org, SSU and the Portsmouth Public Library.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2006 

 

(Article by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist)

                                        EXPLORE THE GALAXY FOR ONLY $3

            Ever wanted to explore distant galaxies?
            If you can’t afford the roughly $200,000 to be one of the first people to enjoy a private 30-mintue space flight when they become available, the Shawnee State University (SSU) Clark Planetarium has the perfect opportunity for you.
            The planetarium, located in the Advanced Technology Center (ATC) on SSU’s campus, will offer a one-hour show, “More than Meets the Eye,” to the public for only $3 for adults and $2 for children under 12. The shows will be held every Monday and Thursday, at 7 p.m., beginning March 27 and concluding on June 1.
            “The show, ‘More than Meets the Eye,’ is a guide to backyard astronomy,” said Timothy Hamilton, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics at SSU and planetarium director. “It explains what we can see in the skies with our naked eyes, with an ordinary pair of binoculars, and with a small telescope. It is a wonderful introduction for the amateur, explaining constellations, major stars, nebulae, and galaxies.”
            Seating is limited to 66 persons admitted on a first-come, first-serve basis with money collected at the door. If the first show sells out, another show will be available at 8 p.m.
            Each show concludes with a special treat for visitors, thanks to the state-of-the-art Digistar II Projection System.
            “Each show will be followed by a set of our renowned ‘roller coaster rides’ of special effects,” said Hamilton.
            For more information or to schedule a private planetarium show, call (740) 351-3125.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2006 

 

(Photo by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist)

                                                           SSU CAREER EXPO


 Many Shawnee State University (SSU) students and alumni attended the annual Career Expo in the James A. Rhodes Athletic Center on Wednesday, March 8. The event, sponsored by the SSU Office of Career Services from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., allowed students to learn about potential area employers and to interview with businesses seeking employees. Eighty-four employers attended the Career Expo.                                 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

SSU HOLDS FOOD DRIVE 

            The Shawnee State University (SSU) Center for Community Service is holding a food drive to benefit the Salvation Army’s Food Pantry.  Through March 17th any non-perishable food items can be donated. 
            “I have held drives at the end of each quarter because a lot of students will be cleaning out their dorm rooms and realize they have food left over which could be donated,” said Tracey Leo, coordinator of Community Service at SSU.  “The Salvation Army has a soup kitchen every few weeks so the items will be used and appreciated.”
            Donation boxes are located in Massie Hall in the Student Success Center and in the University Center by the Student Activities Office.  For more information, contact Tracey Leo at (740) 351-3662 or by emailing tleo@shawnee.edu.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

                              

SSU TO HOST ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONAL DAY 2006 

            Shawnee State University (SSU) Outreach Services will host Administrative Professional Day 2006 on April 27. 
            “This year’s event promises to be our best ever,” said Tracy Conn, University Outreach Services representative who has coordinated this successful event for the past six years.  “Faculty, staff, and companies will enjoy this event.”
            There will be two presenters at this year’s event, Bruce Boguski and Kay Potetz, Ph.D.  
            “At the conclusion of each year’s event, we do an evaluation to find out the interests for the upcoming year, and the number one response last year was to have topics dealing with stress, difficult situations, or overcoming odds.  The Ohio Speakers Bureau has a list of people they recommend, and Boguski and Potetz were top rated for those topics.”
            Boguski will present, “The Winner’s Edge.”  An automobile accident paralyzed Boguski from the waist down at age 18.  After two years, he regained full use of his body and went on to become a two-time state champion in racquetball and also played on a state championship softball team.  He was a high school head baseball coach, assistant football coach and a university tennis coach.  He speaks, from personal experience, to all groups on how attitude makes the difference in whatever a person does in their life.  He is one of the most in-demand motivational speakers in the Midwest.
            Potetz, whose presentation will be, “What Makes me Tick, What Ticks me Off!” has been a keynote speaker and management consultant since the early 1980s. Her qualifications include 25 years of management and administrative experience and she was most recently vice-president of a Midwest hospital. 
            “Potetz combines her business experience with a generous amount of common sense,” said Conn.  “Her keen observations of people and quick wit make her presentations enjoyable and educational for all.”
            The event will include a morning session beginning at 8 a.m. or an afternoon session starting at noon, both to be held in the Micklethwaite Banquet Hall of SSU’s University Center.  The registration fee is $65 per session, and $59 for groups of five or more individuals.  SSU employees receive a 20 percent discount on the seminar. 
            “The event is suitable for anyone who works with the public, but we coordinate it each year to coincide with Secretary’s Week, which is now called Administrative Professionals Week,” said Conn.  “We try to do an event every year that brings frontline people on campus in for training and gives staff a special day away from the office.”
            For more information or to obtain a registration form, please contact Tracy Conn at (740) 351-3490 or email tconn@shawnee.edu.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

LOCAL DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION CHAPTER ESTABLISH SSU SCHOLARSHIP 

            The Shawnee State University (SSU) Development Foundation is proud to announce the Joseph Spencer Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Scholarship (NSDAR).
            According to Susan Warsaw, executive director of the SSU Development Foundation, the scholarship was established as a way for the group to give back to the community.
            “This is indeed a special scholarship because its creation exhibits the support of such a large and wonderful group of women,” said Warsaw.  “We truly appreciate the confidence in Shawnee State they have shown.”
            The $1000 award is for tuition and books only.  Applicants must be entering his or her sophomore, junior, or senior year as an education or history major and reside in Ohio, Kentucky, or West Virginia.  Applicants must also have a GPA of 2.5 or more, complete the FAFSA and have an Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) that falls between $3001 and $3850, and be a non-smoker.  
            Applications will be made on the traditional SSU scholarship form released annually.  The selected recipient will be chosen by the SSU Financial Aid/Scholarship Committee.  Preference will be given to a veteran, spouse of a veteran or a dependent of a veteran.
            Recipients must be a full-time student at SSU and remain in good academic standing.  The recipient will receive the award in increments of one-third to cover three academic quarters.
            For more information, contact SSU’s Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

SSU GALLERY FEATURES GOODMAN’S ART OF THE MASK 

            The Shawnee State University (SSU) Appleton Gallery, located in the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts, is featuring Lynn Goodman’s exhibit titled, “The Art of the Mask,” on display until March 17. 
            Goodman has taught almost continuously as an adjunct professor in the art department at SSU for about six years, although she is not teaching this quarter. Goodman received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Eastern Washington University in Spokane, Washington in 1993 with a concentration in sculpture. Currently she is working on a Bachelor’s degree in Biology.
            “My current work is cast in neoprene, an artificial latex substitute preferred for its strength and durability,” said Goodman.  “The masks are painted with acrylic paint, and sometimes adorned with fur, feathers, horsehair, and/or artificial hair, among other things.”
            Goodman said the masks start with a life cast of a person’s face which is then cast into a mold, built up with clay into the desired form, and cast again so the Neoprene can be poured.  After two hours, the Neoprene forms a skin inside it, which drains and dries in about 12 hours.  The mask is later removed from the mold and allowed to dry completely before being painted or finished. 
            “I have a strong interest in Native American cultures, which is reflected in some of my work,” said Goodman.  “Other work deals with demons, mythical figures, images from literature, and occasional whimsy.”
            “What I find most interesting about her work is how she combines themes from diverse cultures,” said Clifford Poirot, Goodman’s husband and also assistant professor of economics at SSU.  “Also, I get to see a lot of the process that is involved in the creation of art and learn about the kinds of materials that are used in making art.”   
            Goodman’s masks are for available for purchase.  To inquire about pricing or for more information, contact Djwana Spradlin at (740) 351-3118. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

SSU TO HOLD PRE-MED DAY 

            Interested in medical sciences?  Shawnee State University (SSU) offers an excellent pre-med program that stands apart from pre-med programs at other universities.
            On March 17, the first annual Pre-Med Day will be held for those considering a graduate level health profession who are undecided as to where they should complete their undergraduate educations. 
            With a variety of health-oriented science courses and a high percentage of its students getting into the professional program of their preference, SSU is ideal for undergraduate education.
            “The purpose of this day is to share what SSU can offer to those interested in the pre-med programs,” said T.J. Stidham, president of SSU’s pre-med club.  “We have 42 students and 77 people signed up so far for Pre-Med Day.  We have seen our pre-med club and program help many people get into the programs of their choice.”
            Sessions will include a cadaver lab tour, a discussion of research opportunities available at SSU, a lecture on requirements for entrance into professional schools, and a chance to speak with SSU alumni currently attending professional school.  Participants will also tour SSU’s campus, meet with local physicians who are SSU alumni.
            SSU offers pre-professional preparation for graduate education in dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, human medicine, chiropractic medicine, physician assistant training, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.  Advanced pre-med courses include advanced human anatomy, histology, immunology, neuroanatomy, pathogenic bacteriology, pathophysiology, virology, and undergraduate research.
            SSU pre-med students can also get involved with a variety of clubs, such as the Pre-Med Club, the BBB Biological Society, and the Chemistry Club.
            Pre-Med day registration begins at 9:30 a.m. at the main entrance to Massie Hall.  The program begins at 10 a.m. and includes a campus tour, parent and student interactive workshops, and academic and scientific presentations.  Lunch will be offered.
            Pre-Med Day qualifies as a college visit for high school juniors or seniors.  Staff from the Office of Admissions will sign campus visit verification forms.  RSVP by March 15 by calling (740) 351-4778 or (800) 959-2778 or by emailing to  SSU@shawnee.edu.   For more information, contact T.J. Stidham at   stidhamt@shawnee.edu or Pre-Med Club chair Andrew Little at   littlea@shawnee.edu.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2006 

 

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, Communications Coordinator) 

RALPH STANLEY AND TIM O’BRIEN COMING TO SSU IN APRIL 

         For the fourth year in a row, the” King of Bluegrass” Ralph Stanley and The Clinch Mountain Boys are coming to the Shawnee State University (SSU) Vern Riffe Center for the Arts on Thursday, April 6. The show begins at 7:00 p.m.
          “Ralph Stanley is the patriarch of traditional and mountain music. There is no equal,” said Carl Daehler, executive director of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. “There is no other like him.”
           The Grammy award winning performer has recorded more than 170 albums and written and recorded many songs that have become bluegrass favorites. The winner of two Grammy awards in 2002 for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and Album of the Year, his contribution to the success of the musical score for the movie, “O Brother Where Art Thou,” has made Stanley a bluegrass music icon throughout the world.
          “This concert is very special in that Stanley will be sharing the stage with Grammy Award winning fiddle player, Tim O’Brien who is one of the hottest stars in traditional music today. This is an opportunity all music fans can not afford to miss,” Daehler said.
         John Simon, Ph.D., adjunct professor of Appalachian music at SSU, who worked to bring Stanley to campus, likes the fact that Stanley and O’Brien will be sharing the stage.
          “Ralph Stanley is an older performer,” said Simon.  He’s very traditional and has a following that’s passionate about him.  We thought including someone whose a little younger would attract a different audience. O’Brien has a great respect for the traditions of Appalachian music, but he is also a song writer and is known as an outstanding instrumentalist. He plays the fiddle, banjo and guitar.”
          In September of last year, O’Brien released “Cornbread Nation” on the birthday of country and bluegrass legend Bill Monroe. The CD features such songs as “Moses,” “Hold On,” and “Boat Up The River,” Other works include “Rock in My Shoe,” “Red on Blonde,”, “Songs from the Mountain,”, “Two Journeys,” and “Traveler,” among others.
           “O’Brien plays music that represents old music and new music and music from the country and the city,” Simon said. “The people from Europe and the people from Africa like his music. He’s such a versatile person.”
          Reserved-seat tickets are now on sale at the McKinley Box Office. Tickets are $10 for SSU students, $22 for adults and $18 for groups of 20 or more. For more ticket information, call the McKinley Box Office at (740) 351-3600.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 13, 2006 

 

(Article by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist) 

CLC WINS $1,000 IN NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING CONTEST

            The Dr. Miller and Genevieve Toombs Children’s Learning Center (CLC) was one of only 16 second place winners in the national 2005 Scholastic Book Fair scrapbooking contest and the only second place winner from Ohio.
            The CLC won a $1,000 Scholastic catalog-shopping spree for their efforts.
            According to Cindy Ferguson, CLC director, anyone who hosts a book fair can enter the contest.
            The co-chairs of the book fair were Hetty Philips, a CLC teacher, and Barb Davis, CLC secretary, who oversaw the completion of a scrapbook about events held during the book fair. Scholastic judges the scrapbooks based on several factors including events held, increase in sales, and the number of volunteers for the book fair. Anyone who hosts a Scholastic book fair can participate in the contest.
            According to Ferguson, about 2,000 schools in Ohio held book fairs last year and since Scholastic sponsors book fairs in all 50 states, approximately 100,000 schools were eligible to participate in the contest.
            The CLC book fair, held Oct. 31, 2005 to Nov. 4, 2005, allowed students to explore medieval times with the theme of “Enter the Kingdom of Reading.”
            “The book fair was about inspiring literacy,” said Ferguson. “We built a castle the kids could read in and a draw bridge. We decorated with dragons and I dressed as a knight each day. We dressed our guest readers in costumes and I knighted them as reading heroes or heroines. The kids got to visit the book fair each day and read some of the books even if they didn’t buy them.”
            The outside of the scrapbook featured a three-dimensional castle similar to the giant one they built for the book fair. The scrapbook highlighted the astounding sales figures of the book fair.
            “We increased our sales by 92 percent over the previous year,” said Ferguson. “The average dollar amount sold per child for Ohio is around five to 10 dollars per child.”
            The CLC sold approximately $46 per child and had 37 volunteers assist with the book fair.
            Ferguson stressed that the CLC promotes literacy year round, not just during the book fair.
            “Every child gets a free book when they enroll at the center and the parents get two books from the International Reading Association,” said Ferguson. “I say to the parents ‘When you accept this book from the CLC, you are entering a partnership for lifelong learning for your child and when you accept this book, you are committing to read a certain number of minutes each day to your child.’”
            Ferguson expects the parents of a three-year-old to read to the child for ten minutes each day and to increase the amount of time spent reading each day as the child gets older.
            “We really value the Scholastic partnership,” said Ferguson. “Because of our message of literacy and the ability to make books available at a low cost, our families, even those struggling financially, value books and they make adjustments to their budgets to help put books into children’s hands.”
            The CLC also won second place in the Scholastic scrapbook contest in 2004, which came with a $250 prize. Scholastic increased the prize amount to $1,000 for the 2005 contest. The CLC can use the prize to purchase things such as furniture, electronic equipment, and, of course, books.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2006 

 

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator)

                           SSU COMMUNITY CHOIR PRESENTS ANNUAL WINTER CONCERT
          The Shawnee State University (SSU) Community Choir will present its annual winter concert “Songs for a Winter Evening” on Saturday, March 18th at 7:30 p.m. at Wheelersburg United Methodist Church, 11605 Gallia Street in Wheelersburg.
          The free choir is under the direction of Shirley Crothers-Marley, Linda Day will accompany on the piano and Dianna Whitaker will be the violinist.
          Crothers-Marley said the concert will feature music from the master composers Schubert, Wagner and Gounod.
          “We’re also doing some lighter things. We’ll be doing some really lively spirituals the audience will really enjoy,” Crothers-Marley said. “For St. Patrick’s Day one of our singers ‘Paul Wetzig’ is singing ‘Danny Boy’. He does a wonderful job.”
          This is the first performance of the SSU choir since it became a community choir earlier this year. The choir meets on Tuesdays from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. in room 130 of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. Membership is open to all SSU students, staff and faculty and community members. Registration for the spring community choir will be held on Tuesday, March 21 at 7 p.m.
          For more information or to schedule an audition, call Shirley Crothers -Marley at (740) 351-3577 or the Office of University Outreach Services at (740) 351-3274.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2006 

 
(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

SSU OFFICES HELP STUDENTS RETURNING FOR SPRING QUARTER


        To accommodate new and returning students, several offices of Shawnee State University (SSU) will be open on Sunday, March 26th from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

       “SSU wants to make students feel welcome in their return to campus,” said Rita Rice Morris, Ph.D., university president. “We can do that by providing them with access to necessary university services, even on a Sunday.”

The following offices will open at 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.:

  • Bursar’s Office so students may pay their fees for spring quarter

  • Financial Aid

  • The bookstore

  • The Student Success Center to aid with registering for classes

  • The University Housing Office will open at noon
     
  • University Information Services (UIS) Help Desk

For more information call the Bursar’s Office at (740) 351-4778, the Office of Financial Aid at (740) 351-3292, the bookstore at (740) 351-3203, the Student Success Center at (740) 351-3130, University Information Services Help Desk (740) 351-3538,or the University Housing Office at (740) 351-3555.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2006 

 

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator) 

SSU COMMUNITY CHOIR PRESENTS ANNUAL WINTER CONCERT 

          The Shawnee State University (SSU) Community Choir will present its annual winter concert “Songs for a Winter Evening” on Saturday, March 18th at 7:30 p.m. at Wheelersburg United Methodist Church, 11605 Gallia Street in Wheelersburg.
          The free choir is under the direction of Shirley Crothers-Marley, Linda Day will accompany on the piano and Dianna Whitaker will be the violinist.
          Crothers-Marley said the concert will feature music from the master composers Schubert, Wagner and Gounod.
          “We’re also doing some lighter things. We’ll be doing some really lively spirituals the audience will really enjoy,” Crothers-Marley said. “For St. Patrick’s Day one of our singers ‘Paul Wetzig’ is singing ‘Danny Boy’. He does a wonderful job.”
          This is the first performance of the SSU choir since it became a community choir earlier this year. The choir meets on Tuesdays from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. in room 130 of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. Membership is open to all SSU students, staff and faculty and community members. Registration for the spring community choir will be held on Tuesday, March 21 at 7 p.m.
          For more information or to schedule an audition, call Shirley Crothers -Marley at (740) 351-3577 or the Office of University Outreach Services at (740) 351-3274.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2006 

 

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator)                                

SERVSAFE FOOD TRAINING TO BE HELD AT SSU 

          A ServeSafe Food Safety Certification Training class will be held March 20th and 21st on the campus of Shawnee State University (SSU). The class will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in room 209 of the Advanced Technology Center (ATC).
          The two day comprehensive ServeSafe training according to Brenda Covert, manager of Business and Industry Training at SSU, educates attendees on the elements of safe food handling and how to design a safety program that protects customers from potential food borne illnesses.
          According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), an estimated 76 million cases of food borne illness occur each year in the United States, as a result of the mishandling of food by workers. In addition over 500,000 people are hospitalized each year and at least 5,000 people die as a result of food borne illness.
          Covert said the two day training is for food service managers or employees who serve food anywhere to the public. She said the training is also appropriate for local health officials whose responsibilities include restaurant inspection and inspection of food concessions at local fairs and carnivals.
          Participants who pass the examination at the end of the training will be eligible for certification by the Ohio/Kentucky Department of Health and the National Restaurant Association.
          The cost for the March 20-21st training session is $199, which includes lunch, handouts and the exam. Covert said those interested can call (740- 351-3171 or toll free (866) 672-8778 (ext. 3171) to register. The deadline to register is March 17.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

                                          NEW SSU BROWN BAG LUNCH CONCERT SERIES

             The new Shawnee State University (SSU) Brown Bag Lunch Concert Series will begin April 12th in the University Center lobby.  Bill Hannah, associate director, instructional technologies/blackboard, will present local talent at the free concert running from noon until 1 p.m.  A second concert will be conducted on April 26th at the same time and locale.
            “I would like to encourage all local talent to perform,” said Hannah.  “I’m looking for all kinds of music, whether it is blues, gospel, musicians or singers, all are welcome and encouraged to audition to perform.”
            Each concert will present a different musical style.  All faculty, staff, students and community members may set up an audition by contacting Hannah at (740) 351-3318.
            “This event will give people a free series of concerts where they can mix, mingle and decompress with some nice musical presentations,” said Hannah.
            At each concert, the SSU café will provide a box lunch for $5.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2006 

 

(Article by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist)

DISTRICT 14 SCIENCE DAY SET FOR MARCH 25

            The 16th annual District 14 Science Day will be held Saturday, March 25 at sites throughout the Shawnee State University (SSU) campus beginning at 8 a.m.
            Students participating in the district science fair have received superior ratings at both their school science fair and their county science fair. Students who receive superior ratings at the district fair advance to the state competition to be one of 1,000 students from around the state who will compete for prestigious awards and scholarships.
            “In 2005, District 14 students attending State Science Day received some outstanding awards, including renewable scholarships,” said Judy Meeker, SSU Outreach Services program manager and co-director of the District 14 Science Day. “In all, their awards exceeded a cash value of more than $240,000. The District Science Day is an important step in getting to the state level competition.”
            “Students will compete in 13 categories,” said Jeffrey Bauer, Ph.D., co-director and judging chair of the district event. “These include behavioral science, biochemistry, botany, chemistry, computer science, earth and space, engineering, environmental sciences, mathematics, medicine and health, microbiology, physics, and zoology.”
            According to Meeker, Bauer corresponds with hundreds of individuals each year to secure qualified judges for each category.
            “Annually, 60 to 80 individuals representing public education, higher education, government, and business and industry come to help judge student projects at the District 14 Science Day,” said Meeker.
            Lunch will be available in the Bear’s Den cafeteria for $5. An awards ceremony for the participants, which is open to the public, will be held at 3:00 p.m. in the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts.
            “We had 39 students advance to the state competition last year,” said Meeker. “We can send up to 57 students this year, but we only send the students who qualify.”
            Students must earn 36 out of 40 possible points from the judges, based on knowledge achieved, use of scientific method, clarity of expression, and originality and creativity, to earn a superior rating and advance to the state competition.
            “We are one of the few districts who allow fifth and sixth graders to participate in the district event,” said Meeker. “We don’t have to let them participate but we see it as way to encourage them to do research projects so they will stay involved when they are seventh graders who can advance to the state event.”
            Students will compete for ratings of satisfactory, good, excellent, and superior as well as sponsored special awards. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

STUDENTS AND STAFF ATTEND NACA CONFERENCE 

            Four students and two staff members of Shawnee State University (SSU) in February attended the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) conference.  NACA, formed in 1960, is the nation’s first collegiate organization for campus activities, with programs and services designed to reflect the field’s increased responsibilities for student leadership development.
            “I think the students really enjoyed the trip to NACA in Boston,” said Tiffany Weaver, coordinator of student activities.  “The conference offered so many activities, from educational programs to comedians.  We also took a little time to explore the city and see some amazing things.”
            Students Jessica Crosby, Dustin Martin, Ty Hartman, and Hannah Kenny attended the conference along with Weaver and Marcie Hatfield, assistant coordinator of student activities and housing.  Crosby and Martin represented the Student Programming Board (SPB) while Hannah and Hartman represented SSU’s Resident Advisors.  At the conference they attended a variety of educational workshops.
            “We learned through the workshops how to build the Student Programming Board and make it stronger,” said Crosby.  “I got a lot of new and exciting advertising ideas I can't wait to share with SSU, and information about making events and programs better.  It was a good opportunity for SSU to be represented at the national level.  Also, Boston is such an enchanting city.  The conference was right in the middle of the city which made it an excellent site during the day and night.”
            NACA’s mission is to link the higher education and entertainment communities and to provide a unique forum for business and professional development, information exchange, and networking.
            NACA first formed to help increase the buying power of campus programming offices.  The school representatives involved developed a process that allowed schools to work together to share travel and other logistical costs for artists and performers booked for campus shows over a certain block of dates.  This “cooperative buying” forms the cornerstone of NACA. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 16, 2006 

 

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator) 

SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR SSU ALUMNUS OF TOMORROW AWARD 

          The Shawnee State University (SSU) Alumni Association is now accepting nominations for the Alumnus of Tomorrow Award. The deadline for nominations is Friday, March 31st.
           The award is given each year by the Alumni Association to a student who shows promise and who will be eligible to participate in the 2006 commencement.
     “We’re looking for someone who has done a lot of great things on campus and participated in community activities,” Angela Henderson, assistant director development/alumni affairs said. “We’re looking for someone who is really going to make us proud, someone who is going to make a difference in their career and in their community.”
          Henderson said anyone wishing to nominate a student for the Alumnus of Tomorrow award can submit the student’s name, along with how the student meets the award criteria to: SSU Alumni Association, 940 Second Street, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662. Nominations will also be accepted by e-mail at alumni@shawnee.edu.
          “We’re asking for information on the student, what they’ve done and why they should be considered for this award,” Henderson said.
          The winner will be chosen by the Alumni Awards Committee. Henderson said the award will be presented at the annual Evening of Honors in May.
          “This award gives us a chance to see what the students at SSU have done,” Henderson said.” It’s really nice to read the nominations, to see what great students we have here and what great alumni they’re going to be in the future.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 16, 2006 

 

(Article by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist)

                                                     SSU TO HOST “SUPER SATURDAY”

            Shawnee State University (SSU) will host “Super Saturday,” the first conference for childhood

educators and child care providers at SSU, on Saturday, April 22, 2006.

            SSU faculty, Ohio University (OU) faculty, and educators from the region will present sessions along

 with keynote presenter William Mosier, MD, a child development specialist, licensed marriage and family

 therapist, director of research at the Center for the Study of Child Development, and assistant professor of

 early childhood education at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio.

            “This is the first conference for childhood educators and child care providers created by and hosted by

 SSU, University Outreach Services, the Dr. Miller and Genevieve Toombs Children’s Learning Center (CLC),

 and the Department of Teacher Education,” said Ginnie Moore, University Outreach Services director.

            Participants will hear Mosier present, “Meeting the Needs of Young Children: Addressing Each Child’s

 Cognitive, Social, and Emotional Development,” and select which other presentations they wish to attend

 throughout the day.

            Sessions include:

· “ADHD and Mental Health Disorders in Children,” presented by Sue Meeks, RN, Well Child nurse coordinator Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Clinical and Community Services.

· “Beyond Joy…Seeing and Valuing the Work and Play of Children,” presented by Leslie Gleim, early childhood special needs teacher/lead teacher, Carousel Center.

· “Developmentally Appropriate Child Guidance: What You Need to Know to Cope with Challenging Behavior,” presented by Mosier.

· “Early Language and Speech Development,” presented by Lyn Scaife, speech therapist, Argillite Elementary, Argillite, Ky.

· “Folk Dance Fun,” presented by Barbara Trube, assistance professor of early childhood education at OU, Chillicothe.

· “Getting a ‘Write’ Start with School-Based Occupational Therapy,” presented by Barbara Warnock, occupational therapy instructor at SSU.

· “Getting In-Sync with the Out-of-Sync Child: Understanding Sensory Integration Disorders,” presented by Stephanie Schaefer, South Central Ohio Educational Service Center, preschool/occupational therapist.

· “Grant Writing,” presented by Jane Williams, head teacher, Adams County/Ohio Valley Schools and Melissa Williams, kindergarten teacher, Adams County/ Ohio Valley Schools.

· “Life is Like a Box of Crayons…” presented by Wei-Ying Hsiao, assistant professor of teacher education at SSU; Jessica Woodruff, SSU junior early childhood education student; Kris Roades, junior, SSU early childhood education student; and Jill Montgomery, SSU early childhood education junior student.

· “Medication Administration,” presented by Debbie White, RN, nurse coordinator, child care health consultant, Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Clinical and Community Services.

· “Playing it Smart…Playing it Safe,” presented by Jamie Harwood, kindergarten teacher, Jackson City School, Jackson, Ohio; Daisy Mosley, junior, intervention specialist student; Hannah Mattern, junior, early childhood education student; and Joe Maiden, junior, physical therapy student.

· “Really Good Books that Make a Difference,” presented by Diane Tomlin, early language and literacy specialist, OU, Chillicothe.

· “Secrets of the Cardboard Rocket-Planetarium Presentation,” presented by Timothy Hamilton, Ph.D., director, Clark Planetarium/assistant professor at SSU, and Tygre Morehart, student assistant.

· “Stressed or Desserts…You Decide,” presented by Hetty Phillips, head teacher at the CLC, and Amanda Hedrick, preschool teacher at the CLC, with assistants Andy Graffis, senior, multi-age and K-12 intervention specialist student, and Brandi Norris, freshman social science major at SSU.

· “Tour of Quality,” presented by Teresa Stockham, preschool teacher at the CLC, along with Christina Hoffer, Heidi Peltier, and Jill Puckett, early childhood education students.

            “Super Saturday” costs $59. Scioto County Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS) providers

pay $39 but should contact Gary Warnock at DJFS to apply for a scholarship to assist with the registration

fee. Full-time college students can attend for only $29. SSU employees, their dependents, and senior citizens

may be eligible for a 20 percent discount.

            Those interested should register early because some presentations have limited seats available. To

register call (740) 351-3274 or toll-free 1-866-672-8778 or visit University Outreach Services, located in the
basement of Massie Hall on SSU’s campus.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 16, 2006 

 

SHAWNEE STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES  

special Executive Committee Meeting  MARCH 23RD 

                The Shawnee State University (SSU) Board of Trustees Special Executive Committee will meet Thursday, March 23, 2006 at  6:00 p.m. at the Emmitt House, 123 North Market Street, Waverly, Ohio.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 16, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

REAL ESTATE AGENT COURSES TO BE OFFERED 

            Shawnee State University (SSU) Outreach Services, Business and Industry Education in collaboration with SSU’s Department of Business Administration will be offering a series of real estate agent courses during spring quarter from March 28 through June 8. 
            “Selling real estate is, first and foremost, a customer service business,” said Brenda Covert, manager of Business and Industry training at SSU.  “Buying or selling a home is one of the largest transactions most people make in their lifetime, and in many cases, you are making someone’s dream come true.”
            To obtain a real estate sales associate license in Ohio a person must meet the following requirements:

  • Be honest, truthful, and of good character.
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Have a high school diploma or its equivalent.
  • Not have been convicted of a felony or a crime of moral wrongdoing or violated any civil rights laws regarding real estate within the past two years. 
  • Complete the following classroom hours (120) required to sit for the state sales exam:
    • 40 hours in principles and practices of real estate
    • 40 hours in real estate law
    • 40 hours in real estate finance & appraisal
  • Obtain sponsorship from an Ohio broker or real estate company by the time you file your test application with the Ohio Division of Real Estate.
  • Successfully pass the real estate sales license exam, given once a month with the exception of December in Columbus and Cleveland.

The course, “Real Estate Principles and Practice,” will be offered from March 28 through April 27, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and will provide an introduction to real estate economics and administration, including elementary physical, legal, locational, and economic characteristics of real estate.
            “Real Estate Law” will be offered May 1 through June 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays.  The course includes the law of agency as applied to real estate brokers and salesmen, the law of fixtures, estates (including leases), conveyancing of real estate, license laws of Ohio, and topics relating to zoning, cooperatives, and condominiums.
            “Real Estate Finance and Appraisal,” offered Tuesdays and Thursdays May 2 through June 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. will include the nature and characteristics of mortgage loans, government influence on real estate finance, the mortgage market, and effects of monetary and fiscal policies on real estate financing with emphasis on value, cash flow, leverage, and tax shelters.
            The non-credit fee is $389 per course or $1,049 if registering for all three courses.  If registering for credit, the appropriate in-state and out-of-state credit tuition and fees apply.  Textbooks are available at the SSU bookstore.
            For more information contact University Outreach Services at (740) 351-3171, email bcovert@shawnee.edu, or visit http://www.shawnee.edu/off/uos/bie/real_estate.html.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 17, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

MTV CAMPUS INVASION TOUR TO HIT SSU FOR SPRINGFEST 

            The Shawnee State University (SSU) Student Programming Board (SPB) has just announced the MTV Campus Invasion Tour 2006 will headline SSU’s annual Springfest event, Wednesday, May 3rd at 8 p.m. in the Rhodes Athletic Center. 
             “Currently Shawnee State is the only scheduled stop in Ohio the MTV Campus Invasion Tour will be making,” said Wayne Allen, senior SSU photography major and SPB member.  “We’re proud to have MTV returning for the second time to campus.  This is going to be a great show for all who attend.”
            This year’s artists joining the tour are Motion City Soundtrack, Straylight Run, and Hellogoodbye, who MTVu.com refers to as this year’s top emerging artists. 
            Motion City Soundtrack is a power-pop rock quintet formed in 1999.  Their most recent album, “Commit This to Memory,” was released in 2005.  They won an award for best emerging artist at the MTVu Awards.
            Straylight Run, with their self-titled album, have recently completed a full tour of the United States co-headlining with The New Amsterdams, followed by a United Kingdom tour with the band Brand New.   Their video “Hands in the Sky” has been a favorite among college students since its release, earning a heavy rotation on MTVu.
            Hellogoodbye, a pop-rock group from Huntington Beach, CA. are best known for their comedic songwriting.  They took first place in the recent MTV2 Dew Circuit Breakout battle-of-the-bands competition. 
            This concert is presented for SSU students but is also open to the community as well.  Tickets go on sale April 15th and are $16 for students and $21 for the general public.  To purchase tickets, call (740) 351-3600.  For more information call (740) 351-3467 or visit http://www.mtvu.com/uconnect/campus_invasion_tour/.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 17, 2006 

 

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator) 

TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE FOR WILL ROGERS FOLLIES AT SSU 

          The magnificent Ziegfeld Follies comes alive on the stage of Shawnee State University’s Vern Riffe Center for the Arts on Tuesday, March 21 and Wednesday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m. each night.
          According to Carl Daehler, executive director of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts, “The Will Rogers Follies” tells the captivating story of Will Rogers, America’s first media star. The show features dancing, singing and even rope tricks.
          “Will Rogers would be a media giant if alive today,” Daehler said. “He was a star in the Ziegfield Follies, became Hollywood’s highest paid actor, wrote a nationally syndicated humorous column that appeared in more than 350 newspapers, and had the top rated weekly radio show in the country. ‘The Will Rogers Follies’ is the story of this American sensation.”
          “The Will Rogers Follies” opened on Broadway at The Palace Theatre in New York on May 1, 1991 to rave reviews and has continued to win praise and awards. “The Will Rogers Follies” is the winner of six 1991 Tony Awards including Best Musical and the 1992 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album.
          Tickets for the show are still available at the McKinley Box Office and are $16 and $18 for SSU students and $30 and $32 for SSU staff and the community. Call the box office at (740)-351-3600.
          The show is presented by the Southern Ohio Performing Arts Association (SOPPA), Shawnee State University (SSU) and Southern Ohio Medical Center (SOMC).                                                   

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 17, 2006 

 

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator) 

REGISTRATION COMING UP FOR SSU COMMUNITY CHOIR 

          Interested in singing? How about joining the Shawnee State University (SSU) Community Chorus? Registration and auditions for voice placement will be held in the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts on Tuesday, March 21 at 7:00 p.m.
           The SSU Community Chorus is a mixed choir of 25-40 voices which performs a wide array of music from a cappella pieces, to large scale choral/orchestral works, from traditional to pop compositions.
           The Community Chorus performs four annual concerts, including a “Dickens of a Christmas”, sacred concerts at area churches and the Spring Pop concert. The chorus also performs at the SSU commencement ceremony.
          The chorus is under the direction of Shirley Crothers-Marley who holds a baccalaureate degree in music from The Ohio State University, and an M.F.A. with vocal emphasis from Ohio University. She has done further graduate study at the University of Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and the Manhattan School of Music in New York.
          The Community Chorus will meet on Tuesdays from 7:00-10:00 p.m. in room 130 of the Vern Riffe Center. For more information about the chorus or about auditioning call Crothers-Marley at (740) 351-3577.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 22, 2006 

 

(Opening Night review by John Leasure)

WILL ROGERS FOLLIES IS A GREAT SHOW!

            The opening night performance of the national touring production of  “The Will Rogers Follies” at Shawnee State University’s Vern Riffe Center for the Arts was a two and an half hour spectacular of pure enjoyment. Tuesday night’s show (March 21) recreated the magnificent staging, costumes and dance numbers that made the Ziegfeld Follies the entertainment highlight of the early 1900’s.
            “The Will Rogers Follies” was produced as a homage to Rogers and Flo Ziegfeld by some of today’s heavy hitters on Broadway.  Cy Coleman, Peter Stone, Betty Comden and Adolph Green are legends of stage and movie musicals with credits too long to discuss here.  Suffice it to say the pedigree of “The Will Rogers Follies” is solid and genuine.  The subject of the show, Will Rogers, transcended decades and rose to the level of legend.  He was on Broadway, in the movies, wrote a daily newspaper column and had a radio show. Will Rogers was the king of all media in his day.
             Flo Ziegfeld’s name is synonymous with “follies,” a show that was both a stage and musical extravaganza.  These shows were big, brassy and fun.  The closest comparison to today would be (depending on your age) either the TV variety show or the current line-up of Las Vegas spectaculars.
            Credit goes to the Southern Ohio Performing Arts Association and Shawnee State University who showcased “The Will Rogers Follies” as part of their performing arts season, and the Southern Ohio Medical Center for its sponsorship of the Broadway Musical Series.  While the show is an old style revue, it is in fact a study of the life and times of Will Rogers as well.  It sets its songs to illustrate the history of our country during his life.
            There are two stand-out performances in the show.  Amy Decker as Will’s wife, Betty Blake, simply radiates through her performance.  Her songs are the emotional power of the show.  Decker’s voice has the right emotive quality to make you laugh or raise a lump in your throat.  The songs “My Unknown Someone” and “Without You” showcase her talent and her character.
            Chris McDaniel as Will’s father and various other characters in the show (all referring back to the father Will was always trying to please) also shines in the depth he brings to a character role.  Without McDaniel and Decker there is no emotional base for the show.  They are wonderful.
            Okay, so what about the guy who has to play the legend?  Who has to play the guy everyone in world loved, laughed with and then mourned?  The job falls on the broad and tall shoulders of F. Michael Zaller.  He can play the “aw shucks” quality as well as the quiet private moments with equal strength.  Zaller is very much up to the challenge of giving life to a charismatic legend. 
            His final song “Never Met a Man I Didn’t Like” ends the show on an emotional high given the fact that Rogers dies in a tragic airplane crash.  Zaller sells the laugh as well as the lump in the throat.  Decker, McDaniel and Zaller hold the show together through some great dancing and staging by the rest of the cast.  “The Will Rogers Follies” is simply a great evening’s entertainment. 
            The final performance of “The Will Rogers Follies” is Wednesday, March 22, 2006, at 7:30 p.m. For ticket information, call the McKinley box office at 740.351.3600.
            Next up for SOPAA is the sold out performance of LORD OF THE DANCE on Tuesday, March 28, 23006 at 7:30 PM.  However tickets are available for a special return performance of LORD OF THE DANCE on Friday, April 7 at 7:30 PM. Call the McKinley Box Office soon for ticket information at 740.351.3600.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 24, 2006 

 

PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT LICENSURE TEST PREP AT SSU 

          Scorebuilders, a professional company specializing in licensure preparation will present a two-day seminar at Shawnee State University (SSU) for Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) students on Saturday, April 22 and Sunday, April 23 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in room 134 of the Advanced Technology Center (ATC). The class is being offered through the office of University Outreach Services at SSU.
           “This course is for Physical Therapy Assistant students and graduates,” said Ginnie Moore, director university outreach services. “Taking this test prep course will help students to pass the national exam on the first attempt. It will help students reduce test anxiety, help them to identify their strengths and weaknesses and give them a head start on preparing for the exam.”
          The course includes test taking strategies, test analysis and follow up. It will help students limit their anxieties, increase their test-taking efficiency and will examine the intricacies of computer- based testing. Students completing the course will be better able to analyze clinically oriented multiple-choice questions and explore the scope of the content outline. The course also identifies areas of strength and weakness through self assessment and develops strategies to maximize the effectiveness of study sessions.
          The fee for the course is $179. Class size is limited. For more information, contact Tracy Conn at
(740) 351-3490.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 24, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

MODEL ARAB LEAGUE TO ADVANCE TO NATIONAL COMPETITION 

            A group of students from Shawnee State University (SSU) participated in the annual Model Arab League (MAL) competition, a student leadership development program sponsored by the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations.  The students learned about the politics and history of the Arab world as they met and discussed issues pertinent to the Arab culture and society.   The group excelled and will go on to compete in the National MAL competition, scheduled April 6 – 9 in Washington D.C.
            The event took place from February 22 – 26 at Miami University at Oxford, Ohio where the students from SSU were assigned to represent Lebanon and Morocco.  At the competition, a team is split into committees to discuss concerns such as joint defense, Palestinian affairs, and social, political, and environmental issues.
            “Representing Lebanon, we had to know everything about that country so we could represent it,” said Debra Swayne, an SSU senior majoring in international relations. “We had to know how they would feel, how many people live in the country, how long they have lived there, and issues that are important to Lebanon.”
            Swayne said the most important indicator of success in the event is the ability to write resolutions and get them passed. 
            “For example, we created a resolution where doctors in Palestine could effectively communicate with doctors in any other Arab country,” said Swayne.  “Our group did very well and a few of the students received awards for their resolutions.”
            The group will be advancing to the National MAL competition where they will compete against schools such as the University of Cincinnati, George Mason University, the Ohio State University, and the University of North Texas, among many others.  The Arab Court of Justice will convene at the competition for its fourth year and eight states will bring their cases before the court over the course of four days. Also, a reporters’ corps will be present, covering the significant events.
            “This is a great chance to learn public speaking, how to write resolutions and get them passed, and how to speak quickly and diplomatically,” said Swayne.  “It has been an amazing opportunity.”
            Swayne said the Student Government Association (SGA) has been a tremendous help in assisting the students financially for their Washington trip.  Seven students and one advisor will have the opportunity to attend.  Those students who will attend are still being decided upon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 27, 2006 

 

GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR DEGREE HOLDERS TO BECOME
 MATH AND SCIENCE TEACHERS

            Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in math or science can receive grants to cover the tuition and fees required for them to receive a teaching license.
            The “TeachOhio Math Science Project,” an initiative of the Ohio Department of Education, has made $200,000 available to the Southeastern Ohio Center for Excellence in Math and Science. The money will be used for grants covering tuition and fees for courses needed to earn a license through Ohio’s alternative educator license program.
            “This grant is a tremendous opportunity for people who used their math and science degrees in other professions and are now interested in bringing their knowledge and experience into a high school classroom,” said Paul Madden, chair of the Teacher Education Department at Shawnee State University (SSU).  “Thanks to the grant, students will be responsible only for books and materials.”
            A joint effort of Shawnee State and Ohio University, the TeachOhio Math Science Project is aimed at addressing the shortage of math and science teachers in the region and throughout Ohio.
            “A solid education in math and science is essential for success in the 21st century information economy,” said Madden.  “Without superior high school math and science teachers, students will be ill-equipped for the demands of the workplace and unprepared to enroll in college for a more advanced education and even greater career choices.”
            For more information, contact Amber Hall, Department of Teacher Education, Shawnee State University, at 1.800.959.2SSU. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

SSU WOMEN’S FORUM TAPESTRIES RELEASE PARTY 

As part of the celebration of Women’s History Month, the Shawnee State University (SSU) Women’s Forum is sponsoring the release of “Tapestries:  Women Weaving our World,” a collection of original works and readings by local featured artists.  The release party will be held March 29 from noon to 1 p.m. in the Clark Memorial Library alcove. 
            “Featured in this issue are very good short stories, poems, and photographs submitted by faculty, students and staff, both men and women,” said Elsie Shabazz, SSU English and Humanities department secretary.   “The Women’s Forum steering committee worked hard on this issue.”
            This is the third release of the literary magazine, previously known as, “The Women’s Forum Silhouette.”  Copies will be available in buildings around campus including the English & Humanities department on the fourth floor of Massie Hall. 
             “We wanted to let the community know that women can write, take pictures, and paint,” said Shabazz. “Also, men think about their mothers, grandmothers, sisters, or aunts and want to give a tribute to them.  We are proud to be able to showcase that kind of talent in our magazine.” 
            The release party is open to the community.  For more information contact Elsie Shabazz at (740) 351-3300 or email eshabazz@shawnee.edu.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2006 

 

SSU District 14 Science Day

                      

Valley Middle School students Tyler Sherwood and Brandon Zimmer show off their science project “How Do Caves Form?” to judges Larry and Mary Edenfield and Danielle Miller, an 8th grade student at Waverly Junior High shows her project entitled “Germ Fighters” at the 16th annual Shawnee District 14 Science Day on Saturday, March 25th at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2006 

 

(Article by Shanna Mustard, Communications Specialist) 

CELEBRATING 250 YEARS OF MOZART 

            The Shawnee State University (SSU) Vern Riffe Center for the Arts (VRCFA) will host a celebration of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s life on Saturday, April 8, 2006.
            Since 2006 marks the 250th anniversary of Mozart’s birth, the event will feature the work of Mozart, as well as other composers, performed by the Dayton Philharmonic String Quartet and the Portsmouth Community Orchestra and Chorale.
            Stan Workman, music history professor at SSU, will lead a pre-concert discussion in the Kahl Theater about Mozart beginning at 7 p.m. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Birthday cake will be served after the concert.  
            “Mozart is considered the greatest composer who ever lived, has influenced all of western music as we know it, and is one of the most famous child prodigies,” said Carl Daehler, executive director of the VRCFA and Portsmouth Community Orchestra director. “The celebration will mark the 250th anniversary of his birth.”
            Tickets for the celebration, sponsored by the Portsmouth Community Orchestra, the Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center, and the Portsmouth Convention and Visitors Bureau, and supported by the Scioto Foundation, cost only $15 at the McKinley Box Office. To purchase tickets or for more information, call the box office at (740) 351-3600.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2006 

 

GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR DEGREE HOLDERS TO BECOME
 MATH AND SCIENCE TEACHERS

            Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in math or science can receive grants to cover the tuition and fees required for them to receive a teaching license.
            The “TeachOhio Math Science Project,” an initiative of the Ohio Department of Education, has made $200,000 available to the Southeastern Ohio Center for Excellence in Math and Science. The money will be used for grants covering tuition and fees for courses needed to earn a license through Ohio’s alternative educator license program.
            “This grant is a tremendous opportunity for people who used their math and science degrees in other professions and are now interested in bringing their knowledge and experience into a high school classroom,” said Paul Madden, chair of the Teacher Education Department at Shawnee State University (SSU).  “Thanks to the grant, students will be responsible only for books and materials.”
            A joint effort of Shawnee State and Ohio University, the TeachOhio Math Science Project is aimed at addressing the shortage of math and science teachers in the region and throughout Ohio.
            “A solid education in math and science is essential for success in the 21st century information economy,” said Madden.  “Without superior high school math and science teachers, students will be ill-equipped for the demands of the workplace and unprepared to enroll in college for a more advanced education and even greater career choices.”
            For more information, contact Amber Hall, Department of Teacher Education, Shawnee State University, at 1.800.959.2SSU.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

SGA TO ATTEND NATIONAL CONFERENCE 

            The Shawnee State University (SSU) Student Government Association (SGA) will attend the 2006 National Conference on Student Leadership (NCSL) in Nashville, Tenn. at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center from April 1 through 4.
            “The purpose of this trip is to prepare present and future SGA leaders to take a more active role on campus,” said John Campbell, SGA secretary and SSU sophomore majoring in English and social studies.  “Hopefully it will give us information and skills we can bring back to SSU.  I think this will have a positive impact on clubs and organizations on campus.”
            According to the NCSL, the spring conference is designed to help keep the momentum of leadership going strong into the summer and the new school year. The theme, “Keep the Flame Alive!” will offer hands-on, interactive workshops, problem solving sessions where participants can work together to find solutions, and structured networking opportunities. 
            “I am honored to have the opportunity to represent SSU at the conference,” said SGA treasurer Ann Wiard.  “I hope to bring back information that will not only benefit the SGA but also other organizations on campus as well.”
             Members Will Newby, Kelly Hatas, John Campbell, Ann Wiard, Kristy Jarrell, Ashley Leek, Jen Bourne, Wayne Allen, Dustin Jacobs, and Amy Richardson will attend the conference.
            For more information visit http://www.ncslcollege.com/index.html. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 29, 2006 

 

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, Communications Coordinator) 

“WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD” ACTIVITIES PLANNED AT SSU 

           The focus is on young children as the Dr. Miller and Genevieve Toombs Children’s Learning Center (CLC,) in conjunction with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), celebrates, “The Week of the Young Child” April 2-7.
           “It’s an opportunity to educate the public and advocate for a very important segment of our population; children,” said Cindy Ferguson, CLC director. “It’s a national week of advocacy by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and it brings to the forefront nationwide issues of importance to children from birth to age eight.”
          The theme for this year’s activities is “Building Better Futures for All Children.”
          “As a provider of services to young children on the SSU campus, I feel an important responsibility to our youth and I think our institution supports this responsibility by leading our community in advocating for young children and ensuring other providers have a clear understanding of the importance they play in the lives of those who are our future,” Ferguson said.
     One of the highlights of the week is the annual Children’s Fair on Thursday, April 6 in the James A. Rhodes Athletic Center from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Ferguson said approximately 300 children from the Carousel Center, Scioto County Head Start, Scioto County Even Start, Portsmouth City Schools and the Children’s Learning Center will  rotate through seven different activity stations.
          “Scioto County MRDD always sets up an obstacle course. The Portsmouth Public Library will do a story time station and local singer Steve Free will have a music station,” Ferguson said.
          Cirque d’Art will perform at one station and the SSU women’s basketball team will have a “Bear Ball” station. Ferguson said the SSU Occupational Therapy students will also be there and will run the “sensory station” or the “chalk-walk.”
          “They are all things that are important for the physical and academic development of our children,” Ferguson said.
          Each of the children who participate will receive a T-shirt provided by SSU President Rita Rice Morris, Ph.D.
          In addition to the Children’s Fair, Ferguson said there will be an ice cream social at the CLC on Tuesday and Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m. The public is welcome to stop in.                                                                                  # # # 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 31, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

President Rita Morris speaking to the Globalization Conference

President Rita Rice Morris speaking at the globalization conference held on the SSU campus.

MORRIS SPEAKS AT GLOBALIZATION CONFERENCE 

            Emphasizing education as the key to a skilled workforce in southern Ohio, Shawnee State University (SSU) president Rita Rice Morris, Ph.D. was the featured luncheon speaker at the “Globalization Outlook: Its Impact and our Region’s Response” conference, held on March 30 on the SSU campus.
            “It should not be surprising that a university president will advocate for ‘education’ as a tool for improving our region’s economy,” said Morris.  “Education pays.  Recent history tells us that it pays in several ways, such as higher productivity and lower demand on social support programs.”
            Morris said that people must think about higher education and the economy in new ways, that the very nature of a “skilled labor force” has changed.  She observed that just a generation ago a high school graduate with minimum competencies could get a good job in a mill or factory in the region, but today that is no longer the case.
             “To build a strong workforce we must build upon traditional education and specialized skills and place every high school graduate on the path to higher education and life-long learning,” Dr. Morris said.
            That path begins in elementary, middle and high school.   To insure an environment that supports and enables post-secondary education, Morris endorsed more rigorous K-12 education, noting Governor Taft’s “Core Ohio” proposal.
            “High school education is now the base upon which successful careers are built, but it is the base,” said Morris.  “The ability to continue to learn, to be a life-long learner who can easily adapt to new circumstances, is absolutely essential for success.  In today’s economic environment that capacity for life-long learning is demonstrated by a college degree.
            As the regional university of southern Ohio we see our efforts to educate students to receive an associate or bachelor’s degree as building upon the work of regional schools.  We also partner with businesses and the community to develop the potential of our graduates.  Once at Shawnee State, our students can continue to acquire the intellectual tools that allow them to grow beyond the education we have given them.”
            For many students in southern Ohio, the affordability of higher education remains a primary concern.  Morris asserted the need to move away from loans and back to grants as means to keep students on track for graduation.
            “Our students won’t have to work at outside jobs as much while they are in school, increasing their chances of success.  Right now 65 percent of full-time students from low-income families work 24 or more hours per week and 33 percent of full-time students from low-income families work 35 or more hours per week.  The college completion rate for low-income students working more than 35 hours per week is only 47 percent.”
            Morris concluded her remarks with a few observations on what southern Ohio faces in the 21st century economy. 
            Referring to New York Times Foreign Affairs columnist Thomas Friedman’s book, The World Is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-First Century, Morris explained that lower trade barriers and advanced technology permit literally billions of people to interact with one another. 
            “To thrive regionally, we have to succeed globally.  That would seem to be an imposing challenge for Southern Ohio,” said Morris.
            After posing so daunting a challenge, Morris noted that Friedman also offers hope:  technology renders individuals more important than institutions. 
            “Someone with a PC and an internet connection in Portsmouth, Ohio has virtually the same access to knowledge as someone sitting in the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., or standing on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.
            “In this flat world we are measured by the depth of our effort and the breadth of our imagination.  We can compete, if we are prepared.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 31, 2006 

 

(Article by Stephanie Smith, Communications Specialist) 

VAN DEUSEN NAMED SAFETY OFFICER OF SSU 

            Joe Van Deusen, assistant director of facilities at Shawnee State University (SSU), has been named to a new position, associate director, environmental health and safety/facilities.
            “I am excited about maintaining safety on campus,” said Van Deusen.  “I hope to keep the campus safe for students, faculty and staff and comply with local, state and federal regulations.  It comes as second nature to me.”
            Prior to SSU, Van Deussen worked for eight years at the USEC facility in Piketon, Ohio, where he served as systems engineer, training employees in environmental, safety and health.  He was also safety officer on the USEC emergency response team.  Van Deussen is a state-certified safety officer.
            “I look forward to using my experience in ensuring the safety of a major nuclear facility to help Shawnee State be prepared for any emergency we might encounter,” said Van Deusen.
            Van Deusen noted  SSU has done well on safety audits in the past but he hopes to implement safety policies and programs that not currently in place.
            “I want to raise awareness campus-wide, everything from fire extinguisher lessons to issues that might help you in your home, such as proper use of extension cords or electrical equipment.”
            Van Deusen graduated from East High School in 1980 and currently holds both a Bachelor of Science in environmental management and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Findlay.  He also holds degrees from SSU in instrumentation and control engineering technology and electromechanical engineering technology.
            As the manager of the maintenance department, Van Deusen controls the budget and the overall management of the department. 
            Van Deusen has a wife, Donna, a daughter, Jessica and son, Jason, who is on the SSU golf team.  Van Deusen is active in Rubyville Community Church, and enjoys golf and spending time with his family.

 

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