Dr. Kimberly E. Inman
Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs
Dr. Kimberly Inman serves as Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs at Shawnee State University.
Dr. Inman started at SSU in 2013 in the Department of Natural Sciences. She was named the Chair of the department beginning in 2018. She was then named the Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences in July 2023.
On campus, she has been involved in several outreach initiatives with K-12 students for science activities and visits to the SSU Anatomy Lab. She has also served on the university’s Educational Policies & Curriculum Committee, served as the faculty co-chair on the Higher Learning Committee’s Criterion 3 focus group, and serves as a member of the Ohio Department of Education’s Transfer Assurance Guide Anatomy & Physiology Faculty Panel.
Dr. Inman received her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Marshall University in 1998 before completing her Ph.D. in Cellular & Molecular Biology at the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 2006. She served as a Postdoctoral Scientist at Stowers Institute of Medical Research for seven years and continued much of her developmental biology research with her students at SSU.
Greg Ballengee
Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Greg Ballengee joined Shawnee State in 1996 and has served most of his 27-year SSU career as Controller in the Finance & Administration division. He has been instrumental in the success of our recent audits, bond rating evaluations, and investment management.
Before joining SSU, Greg served as Chief Financial Officer of Banc One Corporation’s Portsmouth Office and Financial Officer for the Southeastern Division of Banc One Ohio Corporation. He started his career in finance in 1977 as a teller with Security Central Bank and over his 16 years with that organization, advanced his career to Auditor and then Financial Officer.
A native of McDermott, Greg is a graduate of Shawnee State University and Miami University where he earned undergraduate degrees in accounting and finance. He is also a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Graduate School of Banking.
He is a past member of the Scioto Tech Advisory Board, a past president and board member of the Shawnee State University Administration Assembly and has participated in several mentorship programs for our K-12 partners.
As Chief Financial Officer, Greg will assume leadership of Auditing, Contract Services, Controller, Institutional Budgeting, and Procurement Services.
Malonda Johnson
Chief Operating Officer
Ms. Malonda Johnson brings more than 18 years of human resources and leadership experience. She joined Shawnee State University in 2011 and has advanced the HR department as its Director over the past 7 years. Malonda has also served as SSU’s Chief Diversity Officer, leading the goals tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion outlined in the strategic plan. Over the years, she has led several university-wide committees and focus groups designed to address and meet the needs of our employees and strengthen administrative operations.
Prior to joining SSU, Malonda served 8 years in the Ohio Army National Guard, 16th Engineer Brigade with one deployment in Baghdad, Iraq. She was assigned to the Manpower and Personnel Directorate (J-1), a bureau responsible for overall human resource strategic planning, integration, and analysis to ensure personnel readiness, operational capabilities, and sustainment of the National Guard community. She also previously served in human resources with the Ohio Secretary of State’s office, where she worked for 8 years.
A graduate of Franklin University where she earned a Bachelor of Science with a concentration in Human Resources Management, Malonda is a Certified HR Professional through the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). This summer she will graduate from Capella University with an Master’s in Business Administration degree.
As Chief Operating Officer, Malonda will assume leadership for Facilities, Planning and Construction, Human Resources, Information Technology Services, and Safety & Campus Police.
Dr. Michael Barnhart
Interim Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences
Dr. Michael Barnhart joined Shawnee State University in 2003 and has held several key leadership roles, including Chair of the Department of Fine, Digital & Performing Arts, Vice President of the University Faculty Senate, Director of the General Education Program, and Director of the Summer Bridge to Success program. He has also led the General Education Advisory, Educational Policies & Curriculum, and Distance Learning committees. In 2023, he was selected to serve on the President’s Council, and he assumed the role of Interim Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences in May 2024.
Dr. Barnhart holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in composition and computer music from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. He is a published scholar, a peer reviewer for Cogent OA: Arts & Humanities, and the founder of SSU’s Center for Creative Audio, supporting the minor in Sound Design. His contributions also include service on the Worldfest Committee, helping to bring international artists to Portsmouth through Arts Midwest support, and five years representing SSU on the Ohio Faculty Council.
Adam Miller
Interim Dean of the College of Business & Engineering Technology
Adam Miller joined Shawnee State University in 2011. He most recently served as Chair of the Department of Engineering Technologies. In addition to his role as Associate Professor of Plastics Engineering Technology, he served for four years as Assistant to the Dean for Strategic Initiatives in the College of Professional Studies. In that position, he developed and executed initiatives to advance the college’s mission, strategic plan, and continuous improvement.
In 2018, Miller became Chair of the Engineering Technologies Department. He led efforts in curriculum planning, program growth, and student development. As Interim Dean of the College of Business & Engineering Technology, Miller will work closely with business, industry, and community stakeholders. He aims to shape the college’s direction, strengthen its academic and research partnerships, and ensure students graduate with the skills needed for innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional employment.
Miller earned a B.S. in Plastics Engineering Technology from SSU (2009), an M.S. in Industrial Systems Engineering at Ohio University (2012), and is a doctoral candidate at Penn State. His research includes industry partnerships, additive manufacturing, and engineering education.
Dr. Christine Raber
Dean of the College of Health & Human Services
Dr. Christine Raber has been a member of Shawnee State University’s faculty since 1994, serving as a Professor of Occupational Therapy in the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences. She has played a vital role in the development of SSU’s three Occupational Therapy programs.
Throughout her career, Dr. Raber has also worked on program accreditation and campus accessibility, and has served on initiatives such as Give Back, Go Forward 2.0. In 2021, she was named an Interim Provost Fellow, during which she co-led SSU’s mid-cycle review for the Higher Learning Commission.
As Dean of the College of Health & Human Services, Raber will provide leadership for the college’s academic programs, including Allied Health, Rehabilitation Sciences, and Nursing, and create partnerships with regional health agencies to meet workforce and community needs.
Dr. Raber earned her B.S. in Occupational Therapy, her M.S. in Allied Health (Gerontology/Post-Professional Occupational Therapy), and her Ph.D. in Health-Related Sciences, specializing in Occupational Therapy. Her research and service focus on aging, dementia, health accreditation, and strengthening health education in underserved regions.
Jeff Hamilton
Dean of Students
Jeff Hamilton has served at Shawnee State University for more than 15 years, holding key leadership roles spanning athletics, corporate relations, and student support. From 2008 to 2023, he was SSU’s Athletic Director, overseeing significant program growth to 22 competitive varsity teams and celebrating national championship titles in Men’s Basketball, Esports, and Indoor Track & Field.
In 2023, Hamilton was appointed Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations, where he worked to build and strengthen partnerships with regional businesses, private foundations, alumni, and advisory boards.
Hamilton now serves as Dean of Students, providing leadership for student support services, overseeing student conduct and community standards, and fostering a positive, inclusive campus environment that supports student well-being and success.
He holds a Master’s Degree in Athletic Administration from Ohio University and a Bachelor’s Degree in History from the College of Wooster.
Elizabeth Blevins
Chief of Staff
Ms. Elizabeth Blevins has 34 years of experience in public relations, communications, marketing, and corporate development. She joined Shawnee State in 2008, created the brand for the institution, and developed an integrated Marketing & Communications Office.
Liz earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Morehead State University and a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Central Michigan University. She is accredited in public relations through the Public Relations Society of America and maintains her credentials through recognized continuing education. In 2019 she was named the PR Practitioner of the Year by the River Cities Chapter of PRSA.
As Chief of Staff, Liz will work closely with leadership throughout the institution to achieve our strategic goals, foster relationships that support our mission, and facilitate projects that strengthen the institution.
Michael McPhillips
General Counsel
Mr. Michael McPhillips joined Shawnee State in 2017 after previously representing various Ohio universities and colleges at the Ohio Attorney General's Office.
A graduate of Syracuse University where he earned a bachelor's degree in communications, Mike earned a J.D. from Capital University Law School.
Mr. McPhillip's role as General Counsel includes advising the Board of Trustees and administration on policy development, ethics, contracts, personnel issues, public records, and compliance with federal and state laws. Mike is also serving as secretary to the Board of Trustees.
Jamie Barker
Chief External Relations Officer
Jamie Barker joined Shawnee State University in 2024 as Director of the SSU Center for Appalachian Public Policy and to support external relations within the College of Health & Human Services. He brings extensive experience in government relations, constituent engagement, regional politics, and education to his role at the university. A former high school teacher, township trustee, and Southeast Ohio District Director for U.S. Senator Rob Portman, Baker has built strong relationships across the state and a deep understanding of the region’s needs.
As Chief External Relations Officer, Barker serves as SSU’s primary liaison to elected officials, government agencies, and key university partners. He works closely with university leadership to advance higher education initiatives, strengthen relationships with regional employers, and develop comprehensive strategies that support community engagement and workforce development. He also guides efforts to build and enhance the internal structure that supports these partnerships and initiatives.
Barker holds a Master’s Degree in Social Science and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Ohio University.
Gerald Cadogan
Athletic Director
Mr. Gerald Cadogen brings more than two decades of experience in athletics, team-building, and goal-setting as a former professional athlete, collegiate student-athlete, teacher, and coach. His professional career includes three years in the National Football League, two years in the Canadian Football League, and ten years as an educator and high school football, swimming and track coach.
Gerald became SSU’s first men’s and women’s swimming head coach in 2019. In the first three seasons, the program celebrated two NAIA All-Americans and finished top four in the Mid-South Conference. Since 2013, he has served as a teacher and coach with Portsmouth City Schools. He founded and managed Cadogan’s Camp Football and Swimming, a youth summer camp to help students develop athletically and professionally, and is founder of the Portsmouth Unity Project that fosters community collaboration on artistic and educational experiences.
A graduate of Shawnee State University’s Master’s in Education Intervention Specialist program, Gerald earned two undergraduate degrees, a Bachelor of Science in Biological Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services, from Pennsylvania State University. As a student-athlete at Penn State, he was a two-time Academic All-American, was named First Team All-Big Ten, received the John Oswald award of leadership and was a Sports Mural Honoree.
As Athletic Director, Gerald will work with our coaching staff to lead our 22 collegiate varsity teams, make college possible for more students who want to continue to compete while earning their degrees, and in partnership with faculty, advisors and support services, help student-athletes successfully reach their educational and career goals.
Michael Villanella
Chief Enrollment Management Officer
Michael Villanella brings more than 15 years of experience in enrollment management, having held leadership roles in online admission operations at LIM College in New Your City, served as Director for Hotchalk in Phoenix, and most recently as Assistant Vice President at Kean University in Union, NJ, where he led online admissions, advising, adult learners, prior learning assessment, and corporate partnerships. During his seven years at Kean University, Villanella grew online admissions year over year.
As Chief Enrollment Management Officer, Villanella oversees SSU’s Offices of Undergraduate and Graduate Admissions, Bursar, Financial Aid, and the Registrar, providing leadership to support student recruitment, enrollment, and retention.
Kaci Foster
Special Assistant to the President, Community & Corporate Relations
Kaci Foster brings extensive experience in government, communications, and community development across Southern Ohio and Kentucky. Before joining Shawnee State University, she served as Executive Director of the Maysville-Mason County Area Chamber of Commerce, where she strengthened partnerships with regional employees and advanced workforce and business development initiatives. She previously worked as a Field Representative for Congressman Brad Wenstrup and as a Communications Specialist with Fluor-BWXT/InSolves at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Portsmouth Site, supporting public affairs and stakeholder engagement.
In 2024, Foster was recognized by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce as the Young Professional of the Year for her leadership in business and community development.
Foster earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in government from Morehead State University. She remains active in civic and community leadership through the Maysville Rotary Club, the United Way of Mason County Board of Directors, and the American Association of University Women of Mason County.
Tyler Walters
Executive Director, Strategic Initiatives
Tyler Walters brings more than 25 years of healthcare operations experience to his role as Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives at Shawnee State University. He joins the College of Health & Human Services to strengthen and expand partnerships with regional health agencies and advance initiatives that support the university's mission and community impact.
Walter began his career at Shawnee Mental Health in Portsmouth, where he served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. He has since held multiple executive leadership roles, including Market Chief Financial Officer for Bon Secours Kentucky Health System and Chief Operating Officer for Mercy Health West Hospital in Cincinnati.
He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Healthcare Management from Marshall University and a Master of Business Administration from Morehead State University.
Chris Shaffer
Senior Advisor, Agency & Educational Partnerships
Chris Shaffer serves as Senior Advisor for Agency and Educational Partnerships. In this role, he acts as a liaison to federal and state agencies. He leads the development of strategic relationships with K-12 schools, community colleges, career-technical centers and educational service centers across Shawnee State University's primary service region. His work supports enrollment growth, strengthens institutional partnerships and expands collaborative opportunities for the university.
Shaffer has been with Shawnee State University since 2011. He began as the university’s first Director of Institutional Effectiveness, overseeing institutional research and data-informed initiatives. He then transitioned to the role of Grants Director before taking on his current position as Senior Advisor.
He holds a bachelor's degree from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in Human Geography and Environmental Engineering, an MBA from Ohio Dominican University, and is pursuing a PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies (Education and Policy) at Ohio University.
Shaffer has presented nationally on data analytics and retention research, chaired the ServeOhio board, worked with various statewide and national programs, and served in Gov. Ted Strickland's administration, where he advocated for Ohio's Appalachian region and led community development initiatives. He is a combat veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and an active community volunteer.
Mariah Woodward
University Faculty Senate President
Mariah Woodward, RDH, MPH, is a distinguished member of Shawnee State University's President's Cabinet. She is a proud graduate of SSU's Allied Health Dental Hygiene Program and furthered her education at The Ohio State University before earning her Master of Public Health degree from the American Public University.
With a solid foundation as a dental hygienist in Ohio for a decade, Mariah returned to Shawnee State University in 2009. Initially, she served as an adjunct in the Dental Hygiene clinic, later transitioning to a full-time faculty role in 2015 within the Dental Hygiene program. In 2019, Mariah assumed the Director of the Bachelor of Health Science role, overseeing one of SSU's fully online programs.
Mariah's commitment to academia and faculty leadership became evident when she took on the UFS (University Faculty Senate) President role in 2022. In this capacity, she serves the faculty and actively participates in various committees, including the UFS Executive Committee, Academic Resource and Management Committee, Provost Task Force, J1 Academic Affairs Committee, Distinguished Lecture Series, and Ohio Faculty Council.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Mariah is a doctoral candidate at the University of the Cumberlands, pursuing a degree in Educational Leadership. Her research focuses on exploring the correlation between the Emotional Intelligence of Faculty Members and the Behavioral Health of students.
Mariah, a Southern Ohio native, has dedicated her entire life to the region. Alongside her professional achievements, she is a devoted wife and mother of four children.