Shawnee State University
Academics Future Students Current Students Faculty/Staff Alumni/Friends Parents

  Home> Offices> Communication> News Release> Archives

News Releases
  ::  Media Advisory
  ::  News Releases
  ::  Public Service Announcements
  ::  Sports Report
  ::  Submit Item
  ::  This Month's Calendar
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

                                  Shawnee State University hits record enrollment
                                  (Enrollment continues to grow at Shawnee State University)

            For the fifth consecutive year, Shawnee State University has set a fall enrollment record, with 3,880 students registered for the 2006-07 academic year.
            “We are very proud that so many students are choosing Shawnee State,” said President Rita Rice Morris.  “These students see that Shawnee State will equip them with what they need for rewarding careers and bright futures.”
            Enrollment increased 1.57 percent over the previous year, and more than 18 percent since 2000.
            Registrar Steve Midkiff noted that while the number of incoming freshmen students is down slightly, the total number was up because more students stayed in school.
             “Holding on to students is just as important as enrolling new ones,” said Midkiff.  “We’re working hard at Shawnee State to increase the number of students who take full advantage of their university education and stay on to graduate.”
            Retaining students is also vital to the university because fewer students will be available to enroll in the future.
            Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management Bob Trusz observed that the projected smaller number of high school graduates in coming years will challenge Shawnee State to continue its growth.
            “Fewer high school graduates means fewer potential university students,” said Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management Bob Trusz.  “To continue growing, Shawnee State will look for ways to increase its profile across Ohio.  We offer what students and parents want – low tuition, great programs, small classes, and attractive student residences – and we have seen again and again that if we can get students to visit Shawnee State, chances are they will enroll here.”
            Students attending Shawnee State this year come from:
            *80 of Ohio’s 88 counties
           *13 Kentucky counties
           *Five West Virginia counties
           *17 states (other than Ohio)
           *10 countries (other than the U.S.)

            “I am particularly pleased that our enrollment from Kentucky has increased,” said Morris.  “Kentucky students from the nine counties nearest Shawnee State are taking advantage of Ohio in-state tuition.  These Kentucky students are getting a great university education at a great price.”

                                                     # # #                                                             

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist)

SSU’s Weekend Programming receives grant 

          For the fifth consecutive year, Shawnee State University’s (SSU) Development Foundation has awarded a grant to the SSU Office of Student Activities and Auxiliaries for weekend programming activities.
          “We hope students take advantage of these activities,” said Tiffany Weaver, student activities coordinator.  “We strive to make these activities accessible and fun and  as inexpensive as possible.”
          These funds will provide a program for each weekend of the 2006-2007 academic year and includes:  

  • Bratwursts, Bonfire and (Root) Beer on Oct. 6, where students can play cornhole.

  • Friday Fright Night on Oct. 13.  Students watch a scary movie and enjoy hot cider.

  • Midnight Movies on Oct. 20 at Wheelersburg Cinema.  Students can view the latest flick for only $2. 

  • Scream Factor game on Oct. 27 in SSU’s University Center (UC).  Prizes will be given to the winners. 

  • Midnight Bowling at Rainbow and Sunset Lanes on Nov. 3 includes three hours of fun for only $3.

  • UNO Tournament on Nov. 12 in SSU’s University Center. 

         The funds will be used for renting locations such as the Wheelersburg Cinema and Rainbow and Sunset Lanes, and advertising the events.
         “The Development Foundation is really excited to underwrite weekend activities for students,” said Susan Warsaw, director of SSU’s Development Foundation.  “Doing so promotes a collegiate town atmosphere and acts as a recruitment tool for students near and far.”
          The funds will enable the student activities board to keep events free or at a low cost to students, according to Weaver.  A “series” poster is distributed at the beginning of each quarter to inform students of what events will occur each weekend. 
            “Fall weekend programming activities are sponsored by either the SSU Student Programming Board or the resident advisors, with money received from the SSU Development Foundation,” said Weaver.
          For more information, contact SSU’s Office of Student Activities and Auxiliaries at (740) 351-3115. 

                                                     # # #                                                             

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Stephanie Smith, communications specialist) 

Clark Planetarium to hold public shows
  (See the stars like you never have before at Shawnee State’s Clark Planetarium)                     

          Is that a star or a planet?
          Find out at the Clark Planetarium offering “The Skies Tonight” which explains what can be seen in the night skies using the naked eye or binoculars. “The Skies Tonight” also offers the history and culture connected with the constellations.
            “The show begins with a new version of our program, plus some entertainment and special effects clips to show off the capabilities of the new Konica-Minolta Mediaglobe system,” said Tim Hamilton, Ph.D., planetarium director and assistant physics professor.
          The planetarium is located in the Advanced Technology Center. The show will be held each Monday and Friday at 6:30 p.m. through November 20.
             Reservations are not necessary for attendance; however, seating is limited and based on a first-come, first-served basis.  The cost for adults is $3 and $2 for children 12 and under.  Private groups may make reservations by calling (740) 351-3125. 
            For more information on the shows or driving and arrival directions to the ATC, please call (740) 351-3125 or visit the Clark Planetarium web site at http://planetarium.shawnee.edu.

                                                     # # #                                                             

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist) 
                                              Victor W. Morgan Jr. Scholarship Awarded
          The Shawnee State University (SSU) Scholarship Committee has awarded Tammy Ervin of Lucasville the 2006-2007 Victor W. Morgan Jr. scholarship.
          This scholarship was established in 1992 by Victor and Betty Morgan during SSU’s first capital campaign to benefit students.  
          The scholarship assists a high school graduate or GED recipient in good academic standing with good character.  The recipient must reside in Scioto County, or Lewis or Greenup County, Ky. and be pursuing an associate or baccalaureate degree in the health field. 
          Ervin, daughter of Clifford and Juanita Angel, will return to SSU to study dental hygiene.  She has completed many hours of community service through the dental hygiene program.  She has been married to Thomas Ervin for 15 years.  They have a daughter, Kayla, 14 and a son, Aaron, nine.    
         The SSU Development Foundation administers these scholarship funds.  Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship can contact the SSU Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.   

                                                     # # #                                                             

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist) 

                             NATHAN JENKINS SCHOLAR-ATHLETE SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED
        
The Shawnee State University (SSU) Scholarship Committee has awarded Brent Downing of Portsmouth the 2006-2007 Nathan Jenkins Scholar-Athlete Award scholarship.
          This scholarship was established in 1996 by Gerald and Cynthia Jenkins to honor the memory of their son Nathan, to foster the growth of SSU, and to reward academic and athletic excellence in area students.
          The scholarship assists an East  or Wheelersburg High School senior who has received at least two letters in high school sports and has a 3.0 GPA.  
          Downing, son of Carol and Terry Downing and a 2006 graduate of East High School, has won many sports awards, including the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award.  He participated in the National Honor Society, football and basketball for four years, and Educational Talent Search (ETS).    
          The SSU Development Foundation administers the funds for this scholarship.  Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship should contact the SSU Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.    

                                                   # # #                                                             

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist)

                                   Margaret Bauer Howerton Scholarship awarded
        
The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has awarded Alicia Dayton of Lucasville the 2006-2007 Margaret Bauer Howerton Scholarship.           
          The Margaret Bauer Howerton Scholarship was created in 1994 to honor the memory of Mrs. Howerton.  A $1500 award will be given annually through the generosity of Mrs. Howerton’s son and daughter-in-law, Clayton and Linda Howerton. 
          The scholarship assists a graduate of Ross or Scioto County with a 3.0 GPA, who plans to major in nursing.
          Dayton, daughter of Joe Dayton and R. Elaine Allen is a 2005 graduate of Minford High School.  She has received the Vern Riffe Scholarship, the Jared Dever Scholarship and SSU Freshman Scholarship.  Dayton is active in Campus Crusade for Christ and her local church.  A former member of 4-H, she teaches Sunday school and serves as a Bible club adviser for Minford High School.   
          The SSU Development Foundation administers the funds for this scholarship.  Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship should contact the SSU Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.    

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

SHAWNEE STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES TO MEET OCTOBER 13, 2006 

            The Shawnee State University (SSU) Board of Trustees will meet Friday, October 13th at 1:15 p.m. in the Selby Board Room located in the Clark Memorial Library on the SSU campus.
            The committees of the Board will meet in the University Center at SSU as follows:
                      Finance and Facilities – 9 a.m. in the Founder’s Room;
                      Academic and Student Affairs –10:15 a.m. in the Howard/Ketter Room.

                                                   # # #                                                             

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist) 

                                             Vern Riffe Scholarship Awarded
          The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has awarded John Bowen of Ironton, Katelyn Casto of Waverly, Jessica Dyer of Franklin Furnace, Courtney Humphrey of Latham, and Holly Mollett, Kayla Sargent and Jessica Sexton of Wheelersburg, the 2006-2007 Vern Riffe scholarships of $725 each. 
          The Vern Riffe Scholarship was established to honor the late Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives Vernal G. Riffe, Jr. for his dedication to all the people of Ohio, especially its students.  It was designed to foster the growth of SSU, which owes its very existence to the Speaker, and to reward SSU’s students.  Riffe is Founder Emeritus of SSU and had shown unwavering support and dedication to bringing educational opportunities to Southern Ohio.
          The scholarship assists a freshman who graduated from a Scioto or Pike County high school.  The committee bases the awards on financial need and/or academic standing with a minimum GPA of 3.0.  The scholarships rotate among school districts.
          John Bowen, son of Shawna Bowen, a 2006 graduate of Green High School, played basketball and football and participated in science club. 
          Katelyn Casto, daughter of Mike and Chris Casto, a 2006 graduate of Waverly High School received honors and awards for 90 Percent Club (band), honor roll, and perfect attendance.  She participated in the envirothon science club, marching band, concert band, clarinet choir and trio, pep band, Skill USA, and 4-H. 
          Jessica Dyer, daughter of Tony and Jamie Dyer, a 2006 graduate of Green High School, was freshman, sophomore and senior class president, junior class vice-president, and vice president of both the prom committee and National Honor Society.  She was varsity basketball captain for two years, and received varsity track and field Southern Ohio Conference (SOC) honorable mention, and selected for varsity basketball second team SOC, varsity basketball second team SOC and honorable mention at all-district division four, the 2005 Archie Griffen Sportsmanship Award, and a Wendy’s High School Heisman nominee.  Dyer also participated in golf, cheerleading, quiz bowl, science club, Spanish club, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), and yearbook staff.  She volunteers at church and charity auctions, and tutors at after-school mall.
          Courtney Humphrey, daughter of Bev and Sam Humphrey, a 2006 graduate of Western High School, served as vice-president of National Honor Society, senior class treasurer, junior class secretary, prom committee president, and yearbook treasurer.  She was involved in FCCLA, Heart of Western, and Educational Talent Search (ETS).  Humphrey attends Union Hill Church youth group, visits nursing homes, and volunteers with the Christmas fruit basket program.
          Holly Mollet, daughter of William and Carolyne Mollett,  a 2006 graduate of South Webster High School, will major in teacher education this fall.  She was selected for the National Honor Society, Who’s Who Among American High School Students, National Honor Roll for three years and high school honor roll for four years.  She participated in Key Club and Spanish club, and volunteered at the local homeless shelter, and nursing homes, raised funds for pregnant mothers and hurricane relief efforts.    
          Kayla Sargent, daughter of Jack Sargent and Davida Hall, a 2006 graduate of South Webster High School, plans to major in nursing.  She participated in Spanish Club, Key Club and FCCLA.  She has volunteered with the local homeless shelter, Red Cross blood drives and at nursing homes.
          Jessica Sexton is the daughter of Judy Blankenship and a 2006 graduate of Wheelersburg High School.  She plans to major in teacher education this fall.  She was most improved freshman in band, on the all-A honor roll, and a participant in Morehead State University honors band clinic and all-county band.  She was selected for National Honor Society and was voted most trustworthy student.  Sexton participated in Key Club, book club, mock trial, Bible club, prom committee, peer tutoring, ETS, senior mentorship and select chorus.  Sexton is treasurer of Bridges for Peace at Living Waters Fellowship Church in Portsmouth and is a bass guitar player for Living Waters Fellowship Church praise band.  
         The SSU Development Foundation administers these scholarship funds.  Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship can contact the SSU Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.   

                                                   # # #                                                             

OR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist) 
                                          Glockner Community Service Scholarship Awarded

          The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has awarded $500 Glockner Community Service scholarships to Kayla Adkins of Wheelersburg, Justin Allen of West Portsmouth, Brandon Barnett of Lucasville, Bridget Bear of Portsmouth, Allison Chinn of Vanceburg, Ky., Tiffany Eshem of Minford, Danny Frantz of Portsmouth, and Kimberly Harding and Katie Jordan of McDermott for the 2006-2007 academic year.
          The Glockner Community Service scholarship was established in 2004 by Glockner Enterprises to reward the young people of  Scioto County and surrounding areas for giving of themselves to individuals and organizations in the community.  The scholarship recipient must be a graduating senior of West, Northwest, Valley, Minford, South Webster, Wheelersburg, Green, Clay, New Boston, East, Notre Dame, Portsmouth, Glenwood, Sciotoville, Greenup County, or Lewis County. 
          Kayla Adkins, daughter of Rhonda Loop, a 2006 graduate of South Webster High School, was Miss South Webster, Miss Portsmouth River Days first runner-up, and a homecoming attendant.  She was on the honor roll, listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Students, and was a nominee for United States Achievement Academy (USAA) National Cheerleader Achievement Award.  In high school, Adkins was active in volleyball, cheerleading, and softball.  She participated in school musicals, the Renaissance Board (student council), Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), National Honor Society, and Bible club.  In the community, Adkins participated in Serve and Learn projects and her church youth group.  She was also an adviser for several cheerleading camps for elementary students.
        Justin Allen, son of Kimberly Hart, a 2006 graduate of Portsmouth West High School, was selected for Beta Club (academic excellence) and made the honor roll all four years of high school.  He participated in tennis, volunteered with the Red Cross and at area nursing homes, with the Christmas food drive, and has sponsored a child for Christmas.  Allen plans to major in nursing this fall.
          Brandon Barnett, son of Mark and Debbie Barnett, a 2006 graduate of Valley High School, participated in business club and FCCLA, and served on the newspaper staff at Valley.  He attends Church of the Nazarene and participated in Boy Scouts of America for eight years. 
          Bridget Bear, daughter of Kevin Bear, a 2006 graduate of Sciotoville Community High School, plans to enroll in the physical therapy assistant program at SSU.  She was selected for Who’s Who Among American High School Students, National Honor Roll and National Honor Society.  Bear received the Foreign Language Award and Scholar Athlete Award.  She participated in volleyball, track, softball, key club, pep club, Spanish club, art club, chorus, “Seussical the Musical,” R.A.D.A.R. (a drug-free organization for high school students), and Educational Talent Search (ETS).  Bear has volunteered at the homeless shelter and at area nursing homes. 
          Allison Chinn, daughter of Anita Chinn and the late Virgil Chinn, a 2006 graduate of Lewis County High School,  plans to major in education.  She was selected for most dedicated in volleyball for 2006, and best volleyball setter for the year 2003-2004.  She participated in BETA Club, Champions, FCCLA, Potentially Unlimited Scientists and Research (PULSAR), and Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (VICA).  Chinn remains active in her church, Relay for Life and peer tutoring. 
          Tiffany Eshem, daughter of Angela and Edgel Eshem, a 2006 graduate of Minford High School, plans to major in early childhood education this fall.  In high school, she received the Minford Junior scholarship award, Minford chorus award, and sophomore scholarship award.  She was in the post-secondary program at SSU, received the SSU Honors Summers Institute Certificate, and is a PHI ETA SIGMA member.  Eshem participated in National Honor Society and cheerleading.  Through the National Honor Society and Red Cross, Eshem has collected money and toys for White Christmas, raised money for the Hurricane Katrina victims, and volunteered during blood drives. 
          Danny Frantz, son of Robin and Bill Frantz, a 2006 graduate of Clay High School, will study chemistry, pharmacy, and chemical engineering this fall.  Frantz was selected for Who’s Who Among American High School Students, first team conference in baseball and soccer, and all-district in soccer.  Frantz also participated in varsity cross-country, junior and varsity basketball, Bible club, and science club.  Frantz is also a volunteer for the American Red Cross’ Red, White and Youth leadership council.
         Kimberly Harding, daughter of Denice and Phillip Harding, a 2006 graduate of Glenwood High School, plans to study dental hygiene.  Harding won the basketball best hustle award and four-year awards for soccer and cheerleading.  She played softball and participated in Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates (JOGS).  Harding was the assistant coach for a little league softball team, basketball team and soccer team.
          Katie Jordan, daughter of Steve and Carol Jordan, a 2006 graduate of Northwest High School, participated in honors club, and was selected for Who’s Who Among American High School Students, and National Honor Society. She was on the honor roll and served as the Wendy’s Heisman representative from Northwest High School.  Jordan participated in basketball, volleyball, pep club, yearbook and newspaper staffs, and PRIDE, a club for students who pledge to be alcohol and drug free.  Jordan is a member of 4-H, a volunteer for Red Cross blood drive and Salvation Army food drive.
          The SSU Development Foundation administers these scholarship funds.  Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship can contact the SSU Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.   

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist)

                                              Nellie Niswonger Scholarship Awarded
          The Shawnee State University (SSU) Scholarship Committee has awarded Sarah Jenkins of Rutland, Oh., the 2006-2007 Nellie Niswonger scholarship.
          The Nellie Niswonger scholarship was established in 1987 through a bequest by Mrs. Nellie Niswonger and remains as a permanent memorial to Niswonger and her 31 years as an algebra teacher.    
          The scholarship is awarded to a high school or college student with a minimum 3.5 GPA.
          Jenkins, daughter of Steve and Donna Jenkins, is a 2006 graduate of Ohio Valley Christian School in Gallipolis. She was a member of the National Honor Society and was included in Who’s Who of American High School Students. She participated in 4-H, yearbook staff, volleyball, basketball, and track. At church, she took part in the Proteens youth group. She volunteered at vacation Bible school and children’s church, and also worked part-time at Bob Evans Restaurant.      
          These scholarship funds are administered through the SSU Development Foundation. Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship can contact the SSU Development Foundation at (740)351-3284.   

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist)

                                                   Veri Family Scholarship Awarded
          The Shawnee State University (SSU) Scholarship Committee has awarded Tyler Hollar of Minerva, Oh., the 2006-2007 Veri Family scholarship.
          The Veri Family scholarship, established to honor Clive C. Veri, was created from proceeds of the 1998 President’s Gala to mark the retirement of Dr. Clive C. Veri as President of SSU. The scholarship is a tribute to the nine years of devotion shared by Dr. and Mrs. Veri with the students of the university.
          The scholarship assists a degree-seeking student with sophomore standing and a minimum 3.0 GPA. 
          Hollar, son of Brody and Teri Hollar, returns to SSU to pursue a Bachelor of Science in sports studies.  At Minerva High School, Hollar was selected for the National Honor Society, Who’s Who Among American High School Students, all-conference honorable mention in basketball and baseball.  An honor roll student, Hollar also participated in pep club, key club, and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD). He has umpired little league baseball games, coached young students in baseball and basketball, and tutored students in math.    
          The SSU Development Foundation administers these scholarship funds.  Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship can contact the SSU Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.   

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator) 

                              SSU president has been named to the leadership of a
                                                national higher education alliance  
 

         Shawnee State University President Rita Rice Morris, Ph.D., has been named chair of the committee on professional development for the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.
          “I am honored my fellow college and university presidents have entrusted me to take the lead in preparing new campus leaders for the many challenges they face,” Morris said.
          The AASCU is a national association representing more than 400 state colleges and universities and university systems.
          “A key role of the committee is to plan the program for the annual Summer Council of Presidents, held each July,” said Christina Bitting, AASCU membership services. “Dr. Morris has been an active member of this committee for the past several years and has served as vice chair of the group this past year.”
         The committee on professional development consists of approximately 30 AASCU member presidents and chancellors and oversees the leadership development programs that the organization offers its members.
          Dr. Morris’s appointment begins at the AASCU meeting this fall and will extend until the fall of 2007.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator 

                  SSU helps obtain 21ST century learning center grants

(Minford and Northwest elementary schools receive funding for enrichment programs)  

            Two more Scioto County schools, Minford and Northwest elementary schools have received 21st Century Learning Center grants thanks to Shawnee State University’s University Outreach Services. The 1.2 million dollars is being awarded through the Ohio Department of Education.
          “The grant provides funding for tutoring and helps with proficiency and enrichment,” said Cathy Mullins, grant writer with the Office of University Outreach Services. “The funding will also provide a safe place to be after school.” 
          Mullins said recent research has found that the most likely time for school age children to get into trouble is between the hours of 3 and 6 p.m. when they are home from school and their parents are still at work.
          “Since the schools are empty at that time, the whole idea of the program is to keep them off the streets and provide them with a place where they can continue learning, be safe and take part in social, enrichment and physical activities,” Mullins said.
          Jerry Blanchard, 21st Century Community Learning Centers project director at SSU. said the grants are expected to benefit 100 children at each school.
          “The programs will be similar in the sense that they will emphasize proficiency, tutoring, reading and math but different in that each district will put their own stamp on what works and what is needed for that particular district,” Blanchard said.
          He said the majority of the remediation for the program is done by school staff members.
          Minford School Superintendent Dennis Mead, Ph.D., said he is glad the 21st Century program is back in his elementary school.
          “We feel this is going to add another dimension to our efforts to improve the educational opportunities for our students,” Mead said. “This will allow us to focus more intently upon those students who need extra assistance in achieving their goals.”
          Ed Crabtree, superintendent of the Northwest Local School system said the program will also benefit the students at his school.
          “Anytime you have the opportunity to provide a better environment for learning we are appreciative and will certainly take advantage of that,” Crabtree said.
          The grants are five- year grants for both school systems. Mullins said the funding would be constant for the first three years then drops down to 75 percent the fourth year and 50 percent the final year of the program.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator                 

                                           
                 Bentley, Gregory, and Hairston receive special awards at alumni reception  

                                       SSU alumni receive awards at reception
        
Three Shawnee State University alumni were honored by the university’s alumni association at a
reception during the university’s 20th anniversary celebration last month. 
          Denise Gregory, human resources benefits representative at SSU received “The Alumni Service Award.”  This award is presented to an alumnus or alumna in recognition of his or her outstanding volunteer service and contributions to Shawnee State and/or the Alumni Association.
          “I’m really happy to be the first recipient of this award,” said Gregory. ‘I hope the award grows and the alumni association gets stronger and bigger.”
          Gregory started working at SSU in 1991 as a Payroll Clerk and moved to Human Resources in 1999.  In 2005 her work was rewarded with the performance bonus award.
          “Denise has made many contributions to Shawnee State. If there’s a campus committee she’s on it. People always look to her for help and assistance and leadership on campus,” said Angela Henderson, SSU alumni director.
          Gregory is the campus chair for the Go Red for Women campaign of the American Heart Association. She’s a member of the University Administrative Assembly Executive Committee and she was the UAA co-chair for the in-house capital campaign.
          She is married to Ed Gregory, who graduated from SSU in 1976. They have two children, Tiffany and Michael, and one grandson, Kyler.
        Gary Hairston, the human resources director for the United States Enrichment Corporation Piketon Contract Services was presented with the “Distinguished Alumnus Award” for outstanding performance in his profession and for making an outstanding contribution to the community.
          “Gary has worked his way up at USEC over the past 33 years and he’s done a lot for his community. He’s very active in the Masons, with his church and different things in the city and county,” said Henderson. “He’s really an outstanding person and we’re delighted to have him as the first winner of this award.”
          Hairston graduated from SSU in 1973 with an associate of business degree in retail management and in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in social science.
           He serves as the Trinity Lodge No. 9 Worshipful Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio, Free & Accepted Masons. He was recently voted Mason of the Year for the 2nd Masonic District of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio, F & A.M. Hairston also belongs to the Scioto County NAACP and is a Portsmouth Metropolitan Housing Authority Commissioner.
          Hairston said he was very flattered and touched to receive the award.
          “I think Shawnee State is the greatest thing to happen to the Portsmouth community in the past 100 years bar none,” Hairston said. “I think we’ve just begun to scratch the surface of the potential of what the partnership between Shawnee State and Portsmouth and Scioto County will bring to southern Ohio and I’m just happy to watch it grow.”
          Hairston and his wife Marilyn have been married for more than 31 years. Their daughter Tia is married to Army Captain Dale King, who just returned from his second tour of duty in Iraq. Tia is a nurse practitioner in Colorado Springs.
          The third award “The Alumnus of Tomorrow Award” was actually presented in May during the Evening of Honors, but the recipient Jared Bentley was recognized during the reception. This award is given each academic year to a graduating student who has displayed commitment to his or her individual endeavors, academic, social and personal, and who shows great promise toward  future endeavors.
          “Jared was accepted to five different medical schools. His academics were very good, his extracurricular activities were very good,” said Henderson. “He’s currently attending the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and hopes to come back to the area and practice in emergency medicine or surgery.”
          Bentley graduated this past June with a bachelor’s degree in biology. While attending SSU, he was the president of the Pre-Med Club, the historian of the Tri-Beta Biological Honor Society and the Chemistry Club treasurer. He was also a member of Phi Eta Sigma and participated in intramural football. He worked on three different research projects through the Department of Natural Sciences, including one on the Group A streptococcus strains.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist) 

SSU to support domestic violence awareness efforts 

         To recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Shawnee State University and the Southern Ohio Shelter for Domestic Violence in Scioto County have teamed to sponsor two events in October that will help women in need of support.
          There will be a collection of kitchen items, such as cleaning products, paper towels, dish soap, and laundry detergent, at locations throughout Scioto County. 
          “We decided our greatest need was kitchen items,” said Elsie Shabazz, a member of the women’s center advisory committee and domestic violence awareness month event chair, and board member of the domestic violence shelter.  “Being a committee member at both the shelter and the Shawnee State Women’s Center, I decided this would be a great joint project.” 
          Monetary donations are accepted and appreciated, as well.  The proceeds will go directly to the shelter.  The drop-off areas are located in every building on campus.   
          In addition to the collection, SSU and the domestic violence shelter are hosting a candlelight vigil for domestic violence awareness at the Scioto County Courthouse tonight at  7 p.m.  Anyone from SSU wishing to participate will be meeting at the university Women’s Center, Massie 019, at 6:15 and walk to the courthouse together. 
          “The vigil is set up in the rotunda area of the courthouse,” said Shabazz.  “There will be tables set with one plate turned down for each person that has been killed because of domestic violence.  Women will tell their stories of what happened to them as victims of domestic violence.” 
          Shabazz encourages everyone to become involved.
          “We don’t know what other people’s lives are like sitting beside us in a classroom or walking on the street; we can’t understand what they’ve gone through,” said Shabazz.  “In reality they may be holding some deep, dark secret and they don’t know where to turn.  Just letting people know that we’re there will make a difference.”
           For more information, call Roberta Milliken, PhD., Women’s Center Director at (740) 351-3738, or Shannon Lawson, chair of the women’s advisory committee at (740) 351-3295, or visit the Women’s Center Web site at www.shawnee.edu/womenscenter.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist) 

                                         Authors on Middle East to speak at SSU
              (Free lecture by authors and peace activists Art and Peggy Gish offered at SSU)

         Art and Peggy Gish will present a free lecture, entitled “Searching for Peace in the Middle East: Compelling accounts of non-violent resistance to war and occupation in Iraq, Palestine, and Israel” on Wednesday, Oct. 18 from 7 to 9 p.m. in Room 207 of the SSU Clark Memorial Library.
          “Having spent time in Iraq, Palestine, and Israel, Art and Peggy Gish will offer the university and larger community first-hand accounts of non-violent protest in the tradition of Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr,” said Andrew Feight, Ph.D., assistant professor of history.  “Their lecture will offer insight into the day-to-day struggle for peace in a region racked by terrorism and war, which we, as Americans, should be deeply interested in because of national security concerns and our military deployments in the Middle East.” 
          Art and Peggy Gish are organic farmers in Athens County, Ohio.  They are activists for peace, civil rights and humanity, members of Christian Peacemaker Teams since 1995, an initiative of the historic peace churches (Mennonites, Church of the Brethren, and Quakers) with support and membership from a range of Catholic and Protestant denominations.  They have been working for social justice for over 40 years.   
           Peggy Gish was in Iraq as a peace advocate and witness before, during and following the recent invasion of Iraq.  She is the author of Iraq, A Journey of Hope and Peace (2004) which chronicles her recent peace work in Iraq.  She received the Yoko Tada Human Rights Award at a ceremony in Tokyo for her work with the CPT in Iraq in 2003.  For the past several years, she has served as team coordinator of the CPT in Iraq.  She is due to return to the U.S. only a few days before her presentation at Shawnee State.    
          Arthur Gish is a graduate of Manchester College and Bethany Theological Seminary.  He is the author of numerous books, including Hebron Journal: Stories of Nonviolent Peacemaking (2001), an account of his work on behalf of peace and justice in the occupied territories of Palestine, and Living in Christian Community (1998).  He will depart for Hebron in the West Bank shortly after his visit to Shawnee State.    
          The lecture is sponsored by the Department of Social Sciences at SSU and by the Scioto Chapter of the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR).
          For more information, call Andrew Feight, Ph.D., at (740) 351-3143.   

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist)
                                         SSU Offers Workshop on Financial Statements

          Non-fiscal professionals will be able to understand financial statements by attending a one-day workshop in October. 
          The workshop, “How to Read Financial Statements: A Workshop for Nonfinancial Professionals” is sponsored by Shawnee State University’s Business and Industry Training Center and will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Ohio State University Endeavor Center in Piketon, Oh., in Room 165. 
          “In just three hours, participants will not only have a better understanding of the most important aspects of key financial statements, but they will also learn how to interpret the results of statements,” said Brenda Covert, manager of the business and industry training center. 
          The workshop is instructed by David Horr. Participants will discuss:

·
        Accounting concepts
·
        The Balance Sheet
·
        The Income Statement
·
        Stockholders’ Equity and Cash Flows
          This workshop will help build vocabulary and knowledge so one can feel more confident in financial conversations, said Covert. Participants will be able to make more effective business decisions that can have a positive impact on a company’s bottom line.
          The registration deadline is Oct. 13.  To register or for more information, call  (740) 351-3171 or toll free (866) 672-8778. 

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist)

                 The Dr. Miller and Genevieve Toombs’ Children’s Learning Center
                           students raise money for St. Jude’s with Trike-A-Thon

          The wheels on the trikes go `round and `round at The Dr. Miller and Genevieve Toombs’ Children’s Learning Center at Shawnee State University. 
          Thursday, Oct. 19 from 9:30 to 11 a.m., CLC students will participate in a Trike-A-Thon to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during tricycle safety week.  Trike-A-Thon is a special program developed for early childhood educators and childcare centers to teach children riding safety tips while helping to continue St. Jude's efforts to eradicate childhood catastrophic diseases.
           “We chose St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital because they help children that are the ages of the children we serve,” said Cindy Ferguson, director of the CLC.  “Cancer is no respecter of states or places, so it could well be some children in this area will be helped by St. Jude's research.”     
           Early childhood education students at Shawnee State will set up the trike safety trail in the front driveway of the CLC. 
          The Trike-a-Thon event supports two of the CLC rules, to take care of others and to take care of self.  Families have taken pledge envelopes home and children can earn a variety of prizes based on the number of donations they collect. 
          The fundraising campaign for St. Jude’s will end Oct. 31, when the children take a costumed, group “Trick-or-Trike Walk” to collect candy and cash donations.  When the children return to the center, they will sort and share. 
           “In addition to the lesson of share and share-alike, the children will work on their math skills when they sort and count the money collected,” said Ferguson.
           For more information or to donate to this cause contact Cindy Ferguson or Carol Sexton at
(740) 351-3252.    

                                                                              # # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist)

                       International Food Festival at Shawnee State University
           Travel the world in a day with food and music at Shawnee State.
           Students, faculty and staff are invited to the 2006 International Food Festival on Tuesday, Oct. 24 from 12 noon to 3 p.m.
          The festival will take place in the Mickelthwaite Lounge in the University Center, where the SSU community can sample international food dishes and listen to international music. 
            “This event will reveal to the students and staff the different cultures around the world,” said Darren Ocheltree, president of the international forum at Shawnee State.    
          There will be a collection box available during the festival for monetary donations for the tragedies in Darfur (Sudan), where Janjawed militia have been trained by the Sudanese army with the explicit purpose of ridding Darfur villages of black Muslims.  The United Nations estimates that up to 50,000 African Muslims of Darfur have died in the hands of the Janjaweed.

         
“In today’s world, it is imperative for cultural and international awareness,” said Ocheltree.  “The genocide happening in Darfur is an example of the need for awareness.  I would encourage everyone to donate any amount they can toward this cause.” 
          Vladimirs Azarovs, from Riga, Latvia, will perform songs in various languages and teach salsa and merengue dances.  Azarovs is a young corporate entertainer who is fluent in many languages and promotes cultural awareness all over the world.    
            “I think having Vladimirs visit our campus during our own international awareness week will be a wonderful opportunity,” said Julia Coll, Ph.D., professor of Spanish and applied linguistics.  “Knowledge of one or more foreign languages is important not only to understand other cultures, but also because it makes a person feel at home in different countries.  From this perspective, the world seems to be more open, flexible, and non-threatening.” 
          Some dishes served at last year’s festival include the Mediterranean Tabouli Salad, an Iranian rice dish often served at weddings, and Paella, a Spanish dish normally made with shellfish, chicken or rabbit. 
          Anyone interested in contributing a dish can contact international forum officers, Darren Ocheltree at (740) 357-5012 or Andrew Carter at (740) 821-6822.    
       

                                                                              # # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist)

                 Salsa and merengue dance workshops at Shawnee State University
          Ever wanted to learn how to do the salsa or experience the merengue?
         The public is invited to attend two free dance workshops taught by Vladimirs Azarovs at Shawnee State, as part of the 2006 International Festival.  The workshops will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. in the Howland Recital Hall on the third floor of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts and on Wednesday, Oct. 25 at 10 a.m. in the lobby area of the Riffe Center.
          Vladimirs Azarovs, from Riga, Latvia, will perform songs in various languages and teach salsa and merengue dances.  Azarovs is a young corporate entertainer who is fluent in many languages and promotes cultural awareness all over the world.   
            “I think having Vladimirs visit our campus during our own international awareness week will be a wonderful opportunity,” said Julia Coll, Ph.D., professor of Spanish and applied linguistics.
         For more information, call Julia Coll, Ph.D. at (740) 351-3599.

                                                                              # # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

The Cakes of Shawnee State!

There were many beautiful & tasty cake decorating entries.  The 20th Anniversary picnic turned out to be a beautiful day.  Thank you to everyone for entering the contest and making it fun.  They were all beautiful!

 WINNERS:
                  

Most Original, 1st Place:  Sharon Brumfield                  Most Original, 2nd Place   Melissa Scott

                

                                                        Best Presentation:
Janice Shanks, Tiffany & Savannah Moore                                    Vanessa VanHoose

                                      

                                                          Nora Durham

                                       

                         Best Represents SSU:    SSU's Custodial Department

            

                                   Best Represents SSU: Jr. Level - 12 & Under     

                 Brandy Fields                                                   Emma & Sara Campbell

                                                     # # #                                                             

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2006

Contact:
Jeff Perez, Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 352-5566
E-mail: jperez@shawnee.edu

                     Superstar Comes to Vern Riffe Stage October 18 and 19   

             
(Come see a world-class production of one of the  world’s most famous musicals)

         The ground-breaking, award-winning musical “Jesus Christ Superstar” is set to open for a two-night performance on October 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. at Shawnee State University’s Vern Riffe Center for the Arts.
          The award-winning collaboration between Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber features Ted Neely in his signature role of Jesus. Neely appeared in the movie version and has performed the role on national tours in each of the past four decades. This national touring production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” is being touted as Neely’s farewell tour to his most famous role.
          “People are familiar with the songs and may have seen the movie,” said Carl Daehler, Vern Riffe Center for the Arts executive director. “But nothing replaces seeing it live on stage with an orchestra and cast. Our Broadway Series presentations are the most popular part of the SOPAA season and this classic piece of Broadway history should be no exception. This production is spectacular and has already received rave reviews at its Los Angeles premiere.”
          Featured in the role of Judas is Corey Glover, best known as the lead singer of the Grammy winning band, “Living Colour.” Glover has appeared in numerous television shows and in Oliver Stone’s movie, “Platoon.”
          Daehler said “Jesus Christ Superstar” depicts the seven days before the crucifixion with a stunning score and spectacular staging. He said memorable songs from this production include the title song, “Jesus Christ Superstar,” the moving “Gethsemane” and the ballad “I Don’t Know How to Love Him.”     
            “Jesus Christ Superstar” opened on Broadway in 1971 and was the first musical by the team of Rice and Webber to be produced on the professional stage.  The show has become a cultural phenomenon staged many times, including productions in Hungary, New Zealand, France, Mexico, Chile, Bulgaria, Sweden, Russia, Poland, and Australia, the Philippines, Bolivia and many more.       
            The Southern Ohio Medical Center sponsors the Riffe Center’s popular Broadway Musical Series. Additional funding for the production is made possible by grants from the Ohio Arts Council, the Scioto Foundation, and by gifts made to the Southern Ohio Performing Arts Association and SSU Development Foundation. For more information, call the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts at 740-351-3622.
         Tickets for “Jesus Christ Superstar” and all offerings of the Southern Ohio Performing Arts Association are available from the McKinley Box Office located in the lobby of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts or by calling 740-351-3600. Box office hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Discounted tickets are available for students and seniors and family packages are on sale. Reserved seat tickets range fr