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Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 10, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Pambookian Among First-Generation Immigrants Honored by Governor Ted Strickland

            Dr. Hagop S. Pambookian, professor emeritus of psychology at Shawnee State University, Portsmouth, Ohio, was among several first-generation immigrants honored by Governor Ted Strickland for significant contributions made to the state of Ohio. The honorees were hosted at a reception recently in Cincinnati.
            “This celebration was especially meaningful for me,” Pambookian said, “because it was about ways that we, as immigrants, have contributed to the diversity of Ohio and have worked to bring about a greater awareness of international cultures and issues. That has been important to me my entire life. I believe the more we learn about other cultures, the more we see that we are all the same — and the more we appreciate the world in which we live.”
Pambookian, the son of Armenian genocide survivors, came to the United States from Lebanon in August 1961 for his advanced degrees in psychology, after earning his undergraduate degree from the American University of Beirut (AUB). In the U.S., he received a master’s degree from Columbia University Teachers College, New York City, and a doctorate degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
            His contributions to the state of Ohio began in 1987 when he moved to Portsmouth to serve as associate professor of psychology at Shawnee State University. He developed the psychology degree program and began contributing to the internationalization of the University. He initiated the annual “International Awareness Week” celebration; organized and hosted visiting Fulbright scholars from Hungary, Romania, South Korea, Russia, the People’s Republic of China, and Armenia; and played a leadership role in the establishment and operation of the Ohio International Consortium.
            Following Pambookian’s year-long Ohio Humanities Council grant on “Perestroika, Changes, and Developments in the USSR: What Next?” project, he played a key role in establishing the first international exchange program at SSU with the University of Nizhny Novgorod in Russia. In May 1997, the Ohio Education Association honored him with the “Paul Swaddling Award” for his contributions to international understanding and peace.
            In addition to his contributions to Shawnee State University, Pambookian has contributed to life and culture of Ohio statewide and globally. He has promoted the state of Ohio, as well as the U.S., around the world in more than 20 countries, as international conference presenter and guest lecturer at universities. Recently, he gave a keynote address on “Psychology around the World: The Asian Experience” at the 2nd Asian Psychological Association Convention in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and, earlier, on the “International Dimensions of Psychology for a New Century” at the 56th Annual Convention of the International Council of Psychologists in Melbourne, Australia.
            For his U.S. and international involvement and contributions, Pambookian has been honored by various professional and civic organizations. He is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and an Emeritus Member of the Phi Delta Kappa, an international association for educators.
He has been elected a foreign member of the International Academy of Psychological Sciences in Yaroslavl, Russia; the Armenian Philosophical Academy in Yerevan, Armenia; and the Academy of Pedagogical-Psychological Sciences in Yerevan, Armenia.
Pambookian has been a Senior Fulbright Fellow, 1978-79, in the USSR and taught psychology at the Yerevan State University in Yerevan, Armenia. He was the first U.S. scholar to receive a nine-month long Fulbright Award for the Soviet Union and the first Fulbright Fellow to teach psychology in the Republic of Armenia.
            As part of his ongoing donations and commitment to scholarship, the “Pambookian Foundation” was initiated and the Fundamental Library of the Armenian Academy of Sciences, the Republic of Armenia, now has more than 3,300 English language psychology books and various psychology journals Pambookian donated.
            “Just as I believe we learn from other cultures, I also believe people and social scientists in other countries can learn from the western point of view,” Pambookian said. “By sharing knowledge, experiences, and cultures, the world becomes a better place.”

***Photo Cutline:
Dr. Hagop S. Pambookian, professor emeritus of psychology at Shawnee State University, Portsmouth, Ohio, shakes hands with Ohio Governor Ted Strickland. Pambookian was among several first-generation immigrants Strickland honored by for significant contributions made to the state of Ohio. The honorees were invited to a reception recently in Cincinnati.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 10, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Workshop teaches teens digital photography at Shawnee State University

A Summer Interactive Media Intensives offered a three-day workshop to help young people explore their potential. Allyson Klutenkamper, assistant professor of Photography at SSU, teaches a course in digital photography to students from area high schools. In the photo, Klutenkamper shows Trevor Kronk from Green High School some of the basics of using a digital camera.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 10, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Part-Time Job Fair for Students Scheduled at Shawnee State University

            Many students coming to Shawnee State University will be looking for part time work in August. New students will begin arriving at the university on Aug. 15 just before the new semester begins on Aug. 19.
            To make it easier for employers and students, the Office of Career Services at Shawnee State University is sponsoring a Part Time Job Fair for the first time from 1 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 18 in the new University Center Ballroom.
            “This will be a great opportunity not only for employers to be able to find some energetic, hard-working students, but also for students to have an opportunity to get a job lined up before the semester starts,” said Stephen Gregory, director of Career Services at SSU. “I hope to have a good mixture of on-campus and off-campus employers.”
             Employers in food service, medical care, retail and various on-campus offices will be available to discuss potential positions with students at SSU. Hundreds of students will be on campus that day.
             For more information, call the Office of Career Services at (740) 351-3213.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Interactive Catalog available online at Shawnee State University

            Shawnee State University has launched an interactive catalog online. The information can easily be accessed through an online database with numerous search capabilities.
           “This is more sophisticated than a pdf,” said SSU Registrar Jonica Burke. “Having it as a database instead of a static pdf is such a leap forward. We want it to be fully seamless.”
            Each program has links to each requirement in the program making it very easy to navigate. Admission policies, registration information, fees and financial aid, colleges and departments, student support, pre-college programs, organizations, course descriptions, a campus map and all the academic policies and programs are included. A catalog search is also available.
            Everything a student needs to know is in the catalog and it has named offices and people for many different services where students can go for help.
            To access the 2008-09 catalog, go to Quick Find on the front page of SSU’s Web site at www.shawnee.edu. The new 2009-10 catalog is scheduled to go online Aug. 15 before Fall Semester begins.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Ohio Writing Institute Network for Success scheduled at Shawnee State University

            The Ohio Writing Institute Network for Success is scheduled at Shawnee State University from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3 through Wednesday, Aug. 5 and Monday, Aug. 10 through Wednesday, Aug. 12 offering teachers of fourth to 12th grades new ways to help struggling writers.
            Highlights of the institute are “Re-Imagining the Personal Narrative: New Strategies for Teaching the Memoir” presented by Dr. Jennifer Pauley, assistant professor of English at SSU; “Now that I Have It, What Do I Do with It? Using Smart Technology and Classroom Response Systems to Increase Student Achievement” presented by Sommer Picklesimer, teacher at East High School; “Best Practices, Are They YOUR Practices?” presented by Dr. Linda Rice of Ohio University; and “Memoir Writing Accessing Memories that Glow” presented by Professor Neil Carpathios of SSU.
            Ohio WINS offers a scholarship program where graduate credit is paid for through Ohio University. Teachers with scholarships earn four free quarter hours of graduate credit for their six days of participation.
            Registration is limited to 20 teachers on a first come, first served basis. Preference is given to those teaching English Language Arts in middle and secondary schools.
            To register online go to www.shawnee.edu/acad/eh/ohiowins.html. For more information, contact Pat Spradlin at (740) 351-3328 or e-mail pspradlin@shawnee.edu or Sherri Potter-Metzger at (740) 532-3911 or e-mail smetzger_ic@scoca-k12.org.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 17, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Shawnee State University provides more assistance for veterans

            Shawnee State University has established a veterans’ services coordinator to help veterans transition quickly and easily into student life. The new veterans’ services coordinator, Steve Gregory, director of Career Services at SSU, will coordinate both on-campus and off-campus resources and services for veterans.
            Veterans Services will act as a clearinghouse for needs assessment, information resource and referral to every veteran entering or returning to Shawnee State. The office will work closely with community service agencies and organizations.
Some of the services Gregory will coordinate will be academic acclimation and support, financial aid and military educational benefits, and psychological and medical services. Special orientation sessions will be held for veterans and a Web site will be available with resources to assist veterans and their families.
            Veterans Services will provide personalized, one-on-one services from faculty, administration, off-campus resources and the veteran community.
In addition to the typical issues all students face in college including adjustment to college life, management of stress, establishing effective time management strategies, coping with test anxiety and handling social and peer concerns, veterans may have additional concerns.
            Veterans Services is the SSU contact and resource gateway for critical transition, acclimation and success resources for all veterans, active duty, Reserve, National Guard and their family members. Gregory will match veterans and families with resources at local, regional and state levels.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Gregory at (740) 351-3259 or e-mail at sgregory@shawnee.edu.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 17, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Hands-on Computer Training scheduled at Shawnee State University

            Shawnee State University is offering beginning classes to advanced classes in Word beginning Tuesday, Aug. 18. Basic to Advanced Excel classes begin on Aug. 25. Basic Access begins on Aug. 14 and a basic and intermediate class on PowerPoint begins on Wednesday, Aug. 12.
            Two sessions of each class are offered on different dates at a cost of $59 per class. A Computer Basics and File Management class is offered from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday, Aug. 14 or Friday, Sept. 4. It covers an introduction to computer terminology, software, hardware and components. Learn how to manage and customize the desktop icons and settings along with creating and managing folders and files.
            Basic and Intermediate Word is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 18 or Tuesday, Sept. 1. Topics include creating, editing, formatting, saving and printing documents, how to change font styles, size, colors and use the bullets and numbering features. The Basic Word class is from 9 a.m. to noon and Intermediate is from 1 to 4 p.m. Advanced Word is offered from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Aug. 20 and repeats on Thursday, Sept. 3.
            An Intro to Access class is offered from 1 to 4 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 14 or Friday, Sept. 4 that teaches how to organize and work with data. Topics include entering, modifying and deleting records within a database, defining fields and data types, navigating within a table and creating and modifying forms.
            Basic and Intermediate Excel classes are offered on Tuesday, Aug. 25. Learn how to create, format and edit Excel spreadsheets, use simple mathematical calculations, merge data, generate and apply mathematical functions to spreadsheets and create and format charts and graphs. Basic class is scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon and Intermediate is offered from1 to 4 p.m. with the same classes repeated on Tuesday, Sept. 8. Advanced Excel is scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Aug. 27 or Thursday, Sept 10.
            Two classes are offered in PowerPoint with Basic PowerPoint scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon and Intermediate PowerPoint from 1 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12, and repeated again on Wednesday, Sept. 2 at the same times. Learn to create professional presentations quickly and easily. Intermediate PowerPoint teaches the use of various tools to improve the function of the presentation.
            For more information or to register, call (740) 351-3171 or toll free at (866) 672-8778 or e-mail twalters@shawnee.edu. Shawnee State offers a 20 percent discount to anyone 60 years of age or older.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 17, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Real Estate Classes offered at Shawnee State University

            A series of three courses that are required to obtain a real estate license is being offered from Tuesday, Aug. 25 to Thursday, October 29 at Shawnee State University.
            The program instructors will guide students through the licensing process. In the state of Ohio, real estate applicants must complete the 120 hours of classroom education and pass a license examination.
            Eligibility requirements include sponsorship by an Ohio real estate broker, a high school diploma, high moral standards and be at least 18 years old. Also the person must not have been convicted of a felony or crime of moral turpitude, adjudged by a court to have violated any civil rights laws regarding real estate within the past two years, or violated any rules of the Ohio Division of Real Estate.
            The first class, “Real Estate Principles and Practices,” is from 5:30 to 9:50 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday from Tuesday, Aug. 25 to Thursday, Sept. 24. The introduction to real estate economics and administration includes elementary physical, legal, location and economic characteristics of real estate; real estate markets; and national, regional and local economic influences on real estate values.
            The second class, “Real Estate Law,” is from 5:30 to 9:50 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday from Monday, Sept. 28 to Wednesday, Oct. 28. The class includes the law of agency as applied to real estate brokers and salesmen, law of fixtures, estates, conveyance of real estate, real estate managers, licensing laws of Ohio, zoning, cooperatives and condominiums.
            The third class, “Real Estate Finance and Appraisal,” is from 5:39 to 9:50 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday from Tuesday, Sept. 29 to Thursday, Oct. 29. The class includes the analysis of real estate financing, including lending policies in financing transactions in residential, commercial and special purpose properties. It also includes an introduction to the fundamentals of appraising, focusing on the appraising process, neighborhood/site analysis, building costs, capitalization and reports.
           The non-credit fee is $399 for each course. If registering for all three courses the non-credit fee is $999. Fees must be paid by Aug. 15 or a late fee of $75 will be charged after that date.
            For more information or to register, call (740) 351-3171 or toll free (866) 672-8778 or e-mail twalters@shawnee.edu.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 20, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Shawnee State University offers Associate Technician Technology Training for American Centrifuge

            As a member of the Ohio South Consortium for Training and Education, members of the consortium are offering three different training components that make up the American Centrifuge Skills Development Training Program for an associate technician position. American Centrifuge is a division of the United States Enrichment Corporation in Piketon.
            The first component is Manufacturing Skills Standards Council Training to build core knowledge and skills needed for high performance manufacturing. This component of the program is available at four locations, Buckeye Hills Career Center, Pickaway Ross Career and Technology Center, Pike County Career and Technical Center and Scioto County Career Technical Center, South Campus. The course fee is $1,875. For course schedule and registration, contact the Career and Technology Center nearby.
            Ken Warfield, associate professor of Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology at Shawnee State University, will be instructing the second component of the program in Technology classes in two sections, “Electrical and Control” and “Fluids and Heat Transfer.”
            Warfield is experienced in the operations, maintenance and management of EPA governed treatment facilities as well as the industrial manufacturing and service industries. He has been teaching for 26 years and designed the SSU Environmental Engineering Technology degree program. He serves as the distance site coordinator for SSU’s EM baccalaureate articulation program with Miami University.
             Students will learn the fundamental principles of DC and AC electricity, motors, generators, transformers, power distribution, properties of fluids, fluid flow, mechanics and applications of basic thermodynamics. The course includes an exit exam and a report of student’s progress. It is open enrollment, non-college credit 60-hour course offered by SSU at the OSU South Centers at Piketon with lab sessions at SSU in Portsmouth. The class will meet from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesdays from Aug. 19 to Dec. 9. Prerequisites for the course are having college algebra and high school general science.
             Cost of the Technology component in the Skills Development Training Program is $935. For more information or to register, call Vicci Felts at SSU’s University Outreach Services (740) 351-3274 or toll free at (866) 672-8778.
            The third component is Physical Science learning the fundamental concepts of chemistry including atomic structure, compound formation, properties and reactions in solutions, acids and bases, and chemical equations. This component is offered at Ohio University Chillicothe and the OSU South Centers at Piketon, one evening each week. The course fee is $935 for the third component.
            All three components are necessary to be eligible to apply for the associate technician position at American Centrifuge.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 20, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

New Director of Development named at Shawnee State University

             After a long search, the new director of the Development Foundation has been named at Shawnee State University. A native of Portsmouth, Ohio, Eric Braun is returning to his hometown after 14 years to fill the position.
            “My family and I are thrilled to be moving back to the area,” Braun said. “I’ve been impressed with the growth of the University, and the success of the SSU Development Foundation. Shawnee State is truly focused on its students. I believe this has been the driving force behind its success and I look forward to being a part of that.”
            Braun left Portsmouth after graduating from Portsmouth High School in 1995 to pursue his education receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1998 and earning a law degree in 2001 at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, N.C. He is currently pursuing an Executive M.B.A. at Cornell University in New York.
            Braun developed a private practice with a partner in 2002 in Winston-Salem, N.C. Since 2005, he has operated the firm¹s Wilmington, N.C. office, concentrating on real estate, business law, and estate planning. In his law practice, Braun has counseled numerous individuals on estate matters, charitable giving, tax planning and other substantial financial commitments. He has created marketing plans and delivered presentations relating to legal services and products.
            “Eric brings a unique set of skills to our Development Foundation,” SSU President Rita Rice Morris, said. “These skills will help us moving forward as we strengthen ties with area businesses and community members. The support for Shawnee State University in this community has been tremendous and has helped us continue to fulfill our mission to provide affordable quality higher education. We are fortunate to have Eric lead our continued development efforts.”
            The SSU Development Foundation was created as a 501(c)(3) organization with the mission of obtaining funds and support for Shawnee State University. Directed by a volunteer board of twenty, the SSUDF is also responsible for overseeing the management of the funds entrusted to it.
            “We have an outstanding community group of leaders who are committed to the SSU Development Foundation,” Morris said. “State funds and tuition alone do little more than provide the necessities inherent in a university education. Private financial support that is provided through the Development Foundation has a direct impact on the quality of education and services we are able to provide the students of our community.”
            Fundraising will be a major function of Braun’s new position as director of Development along with a unique opportunity to strengthen the alumni association which now numbers more than 12,000.
            Braun is returning to the area with his wife, Alison, a graduate of Wake Forest University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Science and Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College of Education and Human Development where she earned a master’s in education in secondary science. The couple have two children, ages 4 and 1.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Summer Preview Day for high school seniors scheduled at Shawnee State University

            Explore Shawnee State University and dine in the new University Center Ballroom at a Summer Preview Day for high school seniors from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 14.
            The day will include a parent session, campus tour, student question and answer session, lunch and housing tours.
            At the parent session, a panel group will talk about the various departments and answer questions. Directors from several departments will be on the panel including Admissions, Financial Aid, Housing, Student Success Center and Student Activities.
            The Summer Preview Day is a great way to explore SSU and see the campus and all the facilities including the new addition to the University Center. Students will attend a panel session with SSU’s Admissions staff.
            The Summer Preview Day is free and open to the public. To register, call (740) 351-4778 or toll free (800) 959-2778. Register online at www.shawnee.edu/off/adms/preview.html or by e-mail at To_SSU@shawnee.edu.

Shawnee State University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2009

CONTACT:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
(740) 351-3810; FAX (740) 351-3179
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu

Student Trustee Sworn in at Shawnee State University’s Board of Trustees meeting

             Mallory Saltsman, of Wellston, was sworn in as the new student trustee at Shawnee State University’s Board of Trustee meeting on Friday, July 10 in the Homer & Janet Selby Board Room in the Clark Memorial Library.
             Governor Ted Strickland appointed her in May and her two-year term began on July 1. Saltsman is a pre-med junior at SSU.
             “It’s important to us to have student representation at the board level,” SSU President Rita Rice Morris said. “Mallory is a welcome addition and will serve the student population well.”
             During the meeting, the board also passed a resolution to honor the spring sports teams and individual athletes, including the SSU Golf Team which finished fifth in the American Mid-East Conference tournament play; the Men’s Baseball team which finished fifth in the American Mid-East Conference; and the Women’s Softball team which finished seventh in the American Mid-East Conference.
             Individuals recognized as the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes All-Scholar Athletes were Michael Roelker, Men’s Baseball; Brian Ramey, Men’s Baseball; Lori Harmon, Women’s Softball; Katie Daniel, Women’s Softball; and Brian Spille, Men’s Golf.
            Drew Howard, Men’s Baseball, was recognized on the First Team American Mideast Conference. The Second Team American Mideast Conference players recognized were Brian Ramey, Logan Crabtree, Men’s Baseball; Andrew Carter, Men’s Baseball; Emily Fuhrmann, Women’s Softball; and Ashley Speas, Women’s Softball.
            Lori Harmon and Cassie Erlenwein, both on the Women’s Softball team, received honorable mention in the American Mideast Conference; and Veronica Lerch, Women’s softball and Bryan Spille, Men’s Golf, were recognized at All-American Mideast Conference.
            The board also approved a new position for a full-time 12-month administrative counselor for the Counseling and Psychological Services office.
            “We are growing and moving forward and going through a major transformation on campus,” Morris said. “Our personnel need to continue to change as we position ourselves to meet the needs of our growing student body.”
             The next meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 11 at 1:15 p.m. in the Selby Board Room in the Clark Memorial Library.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 24, 2009

Contact:
Elizabeth Blevins, Director, Office of Communications
Office: (740) 351-3810; FAX: (740) 351-3179; Cell: (740) 464-4854
940 Second Street – Portsmouth, Ohio 45662
E-mail: eblevins@shawnee.edu
Web site: www.shawnee.edu

Old Business College building to be razed at Shawnee State University

When the block building at Shawnee State University on the corner of Second and Chillicothe streets was first built, it housed the former Portsmouth Interstate Business College.

After that it was the WIOI Radio station some still refer to the old building as the IOI building. When Shawnee State University purchased the property, it housed the Personnel offices and then the Security offices and Facilities offices.

“It was impossible to bring the building up to ADA standards,” said Butch Kotcamp, director of Facilities, Planning and Construction. “We have issued a notice to proceed to the contractor on Monday.”

Going into the old building, a visitor was faced with stairs going up and down, making it impossible for a wheelchair to navigate. The new Facilities offices and the Security offices in back of the Advanced Technology Building are completely accessible.

On Monday, July 27, the old building will be razed and a much-needed parking lot will be built to accommodate Shawnee State University’s growing population.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 24, 2009

Shawnee State University ‘stands out’ with new look and new logo to attract more students

After months of research and focus group meetings, Shawnee State University has launched a new “look,” or brand, that includes a new logo for the university, a new logo for the Athletic Department, and a new marketing campaign designed to attract more students.

“We are creating a new ‘brand’ for Shawnee State University that better reflects who we are and what we have to offer,” Dr. Rita Rice Morris, SSU President, said. “More than a simple redesign of our enrollment materials, this project encompasses strategies for reaching potential students who are looking for the unique qualities of Shawnee State — and is grounded in more than 2,000 surveys and interviews with faculty members, current students, staff, alumni, prospective students, parents, donors, and community leaders. This is a tremendous leap forward for us in our efforts to increase enrollment.”

This fall, an expected 4,000 students will be at SSU and Morris says each one will have an opportunity to “Stand Out” – the slogan for the new campaign. In the research, one of the major highlights of the student experience was faculty’s individual attention and availability.

Parents of prospective students also ranked “personal attention from faculty” as one of the strongest perceptions of the university followed closely by “quality of faculty as teachers and mentors.”

Many agreed that with affordability of a college education so important, Shawnee State is the best academic value in Ohio with lower tuition matched and exceeded by the students’ academic opportunities, challenges and potential return on investment. In addition, more than $2 million in scholarships are awarded at SSU each year.

“We are focusing on what sets us apart from other universities,” Morris said. “And, what really sets us apart is our focus on students, our value, the quality of our academics, and our dedication to always move forward. Our new logos and materials represent this and are a part of our efforts to continue to grow so we can be an even better and stronger regional university.”

Shawnee State University will begin using its new logos this summer in preparation for fall semester. An official unveiling will take place after students return.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 24, 2009

New Weather Radio Installed at Shawnee State University

Every week, at noon on Wednesdays, a siren sounds as part of the weekly test of Shawnee State University’s alarm system. Additional equipment has been installed to test the weather service alarms and a test alarm will now be sounded each week between 11 a.m. and noon. After the alarm, an announcement will say that it is a test. If it is not a test, the announcement will give instructions on how to proceed.

SSU receives a signal from the National Weather Service to warn people of inclement weather. Previously, only part of the system was tested. With the new system, the whole system will be tested.

“Now, we will be assured that we actually receive a signal from the National Weather Service,” said Joe Van Deusen, assistant director of Facilities, Planning and Construction. “If there is a threat of severe weather in the area on Wednesday morning, this test will be postponed until 11 a.m. to noon on the first available good weather day.”

The new weather radio will automatically generate a test from the National Weather Service. When the siren goes off at a time other than 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, then the signal is a warning that means there is inclement weather in the area.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Daniel Ondercin has been awarded the 2009-10 Anna Daehler Stillwell Scholarship

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has announced Daniel Ondercin as the 2009-10 recipient of the Anna Daehler Stillwell Scholarship of $1,000.

Applicants must be entering his or her freshmen year. The scholarship may be renewed up to four years as long as the student maintains a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants must also demonstrate financial need and complete the FAFSA.

Ondercin, son of Douglas and Darlene Ondercin, is a 2009 graduate of Brookside High School in Lorain County. In high school, he was involved in the National Honor Society, student council and yearbook committee. Ondercin is an undecided major at SSU.

The funds of the Anna Daehler Stillwell Scholarship are administered through the SSU Development Foundation. Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship may contact the Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Brooke Davis receives the Betty C. Edwards Nursing Scholarship at Shawnee State University

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has named Brooke Davis the 2009-10 recipient of the Betty C. Edwards Nursing Scholarship of $450.
Applicants must be a Scioto or Adams County resident, a full-time student of sophomore standing with a minimum 3.0 GPA and be of good character. Students must be pursuing either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Davis, daughter of Jeffrey Davis and Kelley Wright, is a 2008 graduate of Portsmouth West High School and a returning SSU student. She was class valedictorian and a member of the BETA Club in high school. Davis has been named on the SSU President’s List. She is pursuing a degree in chemistry at SSU.

The funds of this scholarship are administered through the SSU Development Foundation. Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship may contact the Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Three more students have been awarded the 2009-10 Big Sandy SuperStore VanHoose Stewart Foundation Scholarship

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has announced three more recipients for the 2009-10 Big Sandy SuperStore VanHoose Stewart Foundation Scholarship of $2,000 each.
Applicants may be a current employee, spouse and/or dependent of a current employee who has completed one year or 1,000 hours of employment with Big Sandy Furniture, one of its affiliates, and/or affiliates within the footprints of the Vanhoose-Stewart Foundation.

The recipients are as follows:
Miranda Cremeens, daughter of Rick and Becky Cremeens, is a 2008 graduate of Rock Hill High School in Lawrence County. In high school, she was a member of the Spanish Club and National Honor Society. At SSU, Cremeens is part of the Honors Program and has made the Dean’s List. She is pursuing a degree in early childhood education at SSU and plans to obtain her master’s degree.

Jeffrey Mundhenk, son of Jeff Mundhenk, is a 2009 graduate of Portsmouth West High School where he was involved in the basketball, baseball and football teams. Mundhenk is a sports management major at SSU.

Anna Stewart, daughter of Vanita Manning and Tommy Stewart, is a 2008 graduate of Jackson High School in Jackson County. In high school, she was a member of the National Honor Society, student council, cheerleading team and the Tri-Hi Y Club. Stewart is a member of SSU’s Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society. She is a physical therapy assistant major at SSU and plans to work as a PTA afterward.

Brittany Wright, daughter of Lisa Frazie and Dave Wright, is a 2007 graduate of Notre Dame High School. She is a member of SSU’s Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society and has been on the Dean’s List. Wright is an education major at SSU and plans to continue her education after receiving her bachelor’s degree.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Three more students have been awarded the 2009-10 Glockner Community Service Scholarship

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has announced five recipients for the 2009-10 Glockner Community Service Scholarship of $500 each.

Applicants of the scholarship must be a graduating senior of Portsmouth West, Northwest, Valley, Minford, South Webster, Wheelersburg, Green, Clay, New Boston, East, Notre Dame or Portsmouth high schools in Ohio, or Greenup or Lewis County high schools in Kentucky, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate involvement in community service.

Sharleen Hemminger, daughter of Laura Hemminger, is a 2009 graduate of Sciotoville Community School where she was a member of National Honors Society, Quiz Bowl, Mock Trial, chorus, pep band, concert band, marching band and show choir. Hemminger is a biology major at SSU and plans to go on to medical school.

William Kamer, son of Bill and Georgeann Kamer, is a 2009 graduate of Lewis County High School in Kentucky. He was a member of the football and track and field teams, Champions Against Drugs, Beta Club and Pep Club. Kamer is pursuing a degree in either pre-pharmacy or pre-med at SSU and plans to continue his education after obtaining his degree.

Matthew Malone, son of Scott and Kaye Malone, is a 2009 graduate of South Webster High School where he participated in soccer, basketball, track, Spanish Club, Key Club, band, chorus, prom committee, Serve and Learn and the National Honor Society. Malone plans to obtain a degree in radiology from SSU and plans to work for a hospital afterward.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

The Michael H. Mearan Scholarship awarded to Michael Lawson at Shawnee State University

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has announced Michael Lawson as the 2009-10 recipient of the Michael H. Mearan Scholarship of $2,700.

Applicants of the scholarship must be a current legal assisting technology student or a current student pursuing a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in legal assisting. Students must be a resident of either Scioto or Lawrence County and demonstrate financial need. Applicants must also complete the FAFSA.

Lawson is a 2004 graduate of Northwest High School and a returning SSU student. In high school, he was a member of the Pride Club, Honors Club and the chess, football, track and weight teams. Lawson has been on SSU’s President’s and Dean’s Lists. He is a member of the Lambd Chi Alpha fraternity and the Christian Social Services. He is pursuing a degree in legal assisting at SSU and plans to become involved in political campaigns.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Eleven Students receive the McElhaney Honors Scholarship at Shawnee State University

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has announced three recipients for the 2009-10 McElhaney Honors Scholarship of $1,000 each.

Applicants of the scholarship must be a high school senior enrolling for the fall term after their graduation with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA and ACT score of 25 or better. Students must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours each semester. The McElhaney Honors Scholarship is non-renewable.

The 2009-10 McElhaney Honors Scholarship are:
Kyle Amos, son of Roberta Amos, is a 2009 graduate of Sandy Valley High School in Tuscawarus County. He was involved in marching, pep, concert and Jazz bands, Science Club and Academic Challenge Team. Amos is pursuing a degree in digital simulation and gaming engineering technology at SSU.

Brandon Barber, son of Renee and Robert Barber, is a 2009 graduate of Carroll High School in Montgomery County. In high school, he was a member of the bowling team. Barber is a digital simulation and gaming engineering technology major at SSU.

George Frankenstein, son of George and Christine Frankenstein, is a 2009 graduate of Oak Hills High School in Hamilton County. He was a member of Key Club and student council. Frankenstein is pursuing a degree in digital simulation and gaming engineering technology at SSU and plans to work for a video game company afterward.

Heather Barnhart, daughter of Valerie and William Barnhart, is a 2009 graduate of Piqua High School in Miami County. She was involved in National Honor Society, musicals, Link Crew and the cheerleading team. Barnhart is pursuing a nursing degree at SSU.

Kayleigh Caudill, daughter of Derek and Nicole Caudill, is a 2009 graduate of Logan Elm High School in Pickaway County where she was a member of the football, basketball and cheerleading teams. Caudill plans to obtain a nursing degree at SSU and continue her education afterward.

Garen Cooper, son of Gwendolyn Gooch, is a 2009 graduate of Westerville Central High School in Franklin County. He is pursuing a degree in video game design and simulation at SSU and plans to become a game designer.

Geoffrey House, son of Brian and Vivian House, is a 2009 graduate of Troy High School in Miami County. In high school, he was a member of the Bowling League, Boy Scouts of America and Church Spirit Factory. House is pursuing a degree in digital simulation and gaming engineering technology at SSU.

Samuel Jurkovich Jr., son of Sam and Martha Jurkovich, is a 2009 graduate of Meadowbrook High School in Guernsey County. In high school, he was involved in National Honors Society. Jurkovich Jr. is pursuing a degree in video game design and simulation at SSU.

Amanda Land, daughter of Kathy and Larry Land, is a 2009 graduate of Maysville High School in Muskingum County. She was a member of Key Club, 4-H and Student Government. Land plans to obtain a degree in occupational therapy at SSU.

Devin Rudisell, son of Bill and Jackie Rudisell, is a 2009 graduate of Harrison High School in Hamilton County. In high school, he was involved in band, soccer and ice hockey. Rudisell is pursuing a degree in physical therapy assistant at SSU and plans to continue his education to become a physical therapist.

Randall Trusty, son of Janel Schaffner and Randy Trusty, is a 2009 graduate of Huntington High School in Ross County. He was a member of the National Honor Society and the basketball, football and track teams. Trusty is pursuing a degree in pre-medicine at SSU.

Phillip Walsh, son of Scott and Kelli Walsh, is a 2009 graduate of Fort Frye High School in Washington County. He was a member of the Educational Talent Search and International Thespian Society. Walsh is pursuing a degree in digital simulation and gaming engineering technology at SSU.

The funds of this scholarship are administered through the SSU Development Foundation. Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship can contact the Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Aaron Osborne receives the 2009-10 Jim Gambill Memorial Scholarship at Shawnee State University

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has announced Aaron Osborne as the 2009-10 recipient of the Jim Gambill Memorial Scholarship of $1,000.

Osborne, son of Rick and Tammy Osborne, is a 2007 graduate of Eastern High School in Pike County where he was involved in golf, basketball and baseball teams, Spanish Club, yearbook staff, OHSAA Leadership Council, prom committee and Who’s Who Among American High School Students. Osborne is an environmental engineering major at SSU.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Courtney Thornsberry receives the Margaret Bauer Howerton Scholarship award

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has named Courtney Thornsberry the 2009-10 recipient of the Margaret Bauer Howerton Scholarship of $1,500.

Applicants must be a graduate of either Ross or Scioto County high schools with a minimum 3.0 GPA who demonstrates financial need. Students must also be pursuing an associate’s degree in nursing. All applicants must also complete the FAFSA.

Thornsberry, daughter of James and Michaelann Thornsberry, is a 2008 graduate of Green High School. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club, prom committee, Quiz Bowl and the cheerleading and softball teams. Thornsberry is also a member of the SSU Honor’s Program. She is pursuing a degree in nursing at SSU and plans to continue her education in nursing afterward.

The funds of the Margaret Bauer Howerton Scholarship are administered through the SSU Development Foundation. Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship may contact the Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Christopher Downing receives the Peg Ellsesser Memorial Scholarship

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has named Christopher Downing as the 2009-10 recipient of the Peg Ellsesser Memorial Scholarship of $1,000.

Applicants of this scholarship must be a current SSU student of either junior or senior status with a minimum 3.0 GPA and be pursuing a degree in sports management or athletic training. Students must also complete the FAFSA.

Downing, son of Christopher and Tammy Downing, is a 2001 graduate of Eastern High School in Brown County and a returning SSU student. He has been on the SSU President’s and Dean’s Lists. Downing is pursuing a degree in physical therapy assistant and athletic training at SSU.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Skitarelic-Swanson Family Medical Laboratory Science Scholarship awarded to Kourtney Rase

The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has named Kourtney Rase the 2009-10 recipient of the Skitarelic-Swanson Family Medical Laboratory Science Scholarship of $3,000.
Applicants must be at least entering their second year at SSU and exhibit outstanding aptitude, enthusiasm and performance. Students must demonstrate financial need and complete the FAFSA.

Rase, daughter of Christopher and Melissa Rase, is a 2009 graduate of Minford High School. She was involved in prom committee, yearbook and the basketball and track teams. Rase plans to graduate from SSU with a physical therapy assistant degree.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Shawnee State University instructor demonstrates ceramic art

Shawnee State University ceramic instructor Bill Meadows, demonstrates the making of a pitcher on a pottery wheel beginning with a chunk of clay at the Southern Ohio Museum at their SmARTalk at noon on Wednesday, July 22. Meadows has been creating ceramics for about 38 years. He has been teaching at SSU for ten years. One of his specialties is crystalline, one of the most difficult of the ceramic disciplines. He has won numerous awards for his work, including the Award of Excellence from the Ohio Designer Craftsmen and a Ceramic Monthly Purchase Award from Winterfair in Columbus. In 2001, his crystalline forms were featured in Ronin Hopper’s 2001 Edition of Ceramic Spectrum.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Building razed at Shawnee State University

The old outdated Facilities and Security building at Shawnee State University was razed on Monday, July 27 in order to expand the much-needed parking on campus. In the photo, dust flies as the excavator operator, Bill Hackworth with Mullins Construction, demolishes the building.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

Shawnee State University’s Keijing Liu presented at the Global Awareness Society International’s 18th Annual Conference Presentation

Shawnee State University’s associate professor, Keijing Liu, presented her research paper, “The Impact of Holistic Method on Teacher Candidates’ Self-efficacy,” from May 21 to 24 at the Global Awareness Society International’s 18th Annual Conference Presentation in Washington D. C.

Liu’s paper focused on action research as a successful and professional development method for not only students at the graduate level but the undergraduate level as well. The purpose of the study was to examine the impact of holistic teaching methods on early childhood teacher candidates’ self-efficacy.

Liu was able to show that undergraduate early education students who were enrolled in courses focused on conducting action research help greatly increase the teacher candidate’s self-efficacy.

“My teacher candidates wrote on the bottom of their surveys that action research helped increase their confidence to become better teachers,” Liu said.
Liu’s conference was sponsored by the Provost’s faculty enrichment grant.

Her research paper will also be published in the E-Journal of GASI in August 2009.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2009

New director of the Children’s Learning Center realizes dream

Several years ago, Beth Rice was visiting her family in Portsmouth, when she stopped at Shawnee State University’s Children’s Learning Center and walked around.

“I thought, wouldn’t it be wonderful to one day be director of such a fine early learning center as this,” said the CLC’s new Director Beth Rice. “And now that dream has come true and I already feel like I have ‘come home.’”

Rice spent many years in Hawaii as a school principal, and director of an early childhood program. She took part in professional development programs for early childhood directors and was a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

For the past six years, she has been a consultant with the Ohio Department of Education serving four counties on issues of school improvement and special education. She has worked with nonprofit organizations, private and public education in early childhood.

“My goal is to continue to build on the high standards that we have in providing high quality care to the children here in our center,” Rice said. “We also have a huge responsibility as a lab school within the Department of Teacher Education, to offer the highest quality early childhood program we can, modeling best practices in early childhood.”

The center also has several on-the-job training opportunities for university students each semester. The center is a field site for occupational therapy and physical therapy students. The Department of Teacher Education has on-site classes and the center has opportunities for teacher assistants enrolled in the Teacher Education program.

“What I have noticed that there are so many people working together on behalf of the kids here,” Rice said. “That’s one of the things that make this a really strong program.”

The CLC is an important resource for SSU students enrolled in early childhood, health sciences and social science programs. Rice feels it is her job to help those around her be successful.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to be a part of it all,” Rice said. “We are the Children’s Learning Center where children come first.”

The center has several openings for students in the upcoming fall semester. For more information, call (740) 351-3252.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 31, 2009

Community Choir forming for fall at Shawnee State University

The Shawnee State University Community Choir will begin rehearsals for the Fall Semester at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 25, in Room 130 at SSU’s Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. New members are welcome and should be at the rehearsal by 6:50 p.m. Shirley Crothers-Marley, choir director, has planned a busy schedule for the choir this season with special Christmas performances, including ensembles and soloists. She has requested that all returning members bring in the music that is still checked out. For more information, e-mail smarley@shawnee.edu or call (740) 351-3577.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 31, 2009

New resident students at Shawnee State University to volunteer in community

            All of the new resident students at Shawnee State University will be going out into the community on Monday, Aug. 17 from 1 to 5 p.m. for “SSU Gives Back” performing volunteer duties at more than 30 different service projects.
            “They will be working both on campus and off campus,” said Kali Lucas, residence coordinator, SSU Housing. “It will also be a way for students to get out and learn about different organizations they can work with during the year.”
            Most of the projects will be for non-profit organizations and some of the students will be helping the city with some cleanup projects. Students will be wearing a Shawnee State University T-shirt with co-sponsors logos on the back.
            Nearly 600 students will work at the various organizations including Scioto County Homeless Shelter, Shawnee State Park, Sierra’s Haven, Habitat for Humanity, 14th Street Community Center, nursing homes and they will provide a field day for children of SSU faculty and staff, among other things.
            “It will be a great way for us to give back to the community,” Lucas said. “And it will better acclimate students to SSU and the community.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 31, 2009

Shawnee State University’s Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity wins Award of Excellence

            Brotherhood, teamwork, leadership, community service and scholarship are all part of what drives the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity at Shawnee State University, the Tau Nu chapter. Founded in 1899 at Illinois Wesleyan University, the society’s avowed purpose was "to aid college men in mental, moral, and social development."
            The Shawnee State University chapter, formed in 1994, has worked hard this past year and recently won the Award of Excellence from the Tau headquarters in Indiana for most community service and alumni relations in the region which includes much larger chapters at Ohio State and the University of Cincinnati.
            “We did over 1,000 hours of community work this past year,” said Ryan Collins, president of the SSU chapter.
            They worked on blood drives, the Jaycee’s Haunted House and many other service projects in the community. They also raised enough funds to buy a wheelchair for another SSU student. The major philanthropic endeavors in the nation are St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Alzheimer's Association.
            The SSU chapter celebrated its 15th year and some of their alumni members are still in the community helping the chapter members as advisors.
            “We are the first fraternity at Shawnee and now the only fraternity at Shawnee because we have great support from our alumni,” Collins said. “Also, what is so great about our fraternity is that it helps you with teamwork and leadership. It helps you out a lot.”
            More than 174 members have been initiated since the chapter began at SSU. Merv Griffin, Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, Mike Huckleberry and many other well-known people were members of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity.
            The SSU Chapter will be presented the award at its national 2009 Conclave scheduled Aug. 6-9 in New Orleans. An awards luncheon will be held on Friday, Aug. 7.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 29, 2009

Rodeheffer donates to the Center for International Programs and Activities

Cal Rodeheffer, of Portsmouth, has been making many things in his woodshop over the years, including oak flag holders for Shawnee State University’s Center for International Programs and Activities. The flags represent the countries of all the international students who have been students at SSU. Last year, Rodeheffer donated the flag holders and continues to make them when new international students arrive. Since his retirement, he has been building and working in his woodshop making furniture, wall clocks and numerous other items. In addition to making the wooden flag holders for the International Program at Shawnee State, he also makes the house number plates and other items for Scioto County Habitat for Humanity, and items for the Cornerstone United Methodist Church bazaars. Rodeheffer served as a Methodist minister and later as district superintendent. He also led in the development and building of Hill View Retirement Center and served as a building consultant for other retirement centers in the tri-state area.

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