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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 5, 2007

 

Shawnee State to host National Preparedness Month observance

(This Friday 1,500 Scioto County fourth through sixth graders will learn the value of disaster planning and the rewards of volunteering for local EMS and fire services.)

            September is National Preparedness Month and Shawnee State University will be host this Friday to 1,500 fourth through sixth graders from throughout Scioto County joining in an observance that will highlight the importance of developing a “Family Emergency Plan.”
            Beginning at 10 a.m. the students will participate in hands-on demonstrations of local and state emergency response agencies, including medical helicopters, patrol boats, hazmat teams in containment suits, and a variety of fire, EMS and safety equipment. The students will also view “Adventures of the Disaster Dudes” in the main theater of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts, followed by lunch provided by LIFE Ambulance.
            Along with four other counties the Ohio Department of Public Safety selected Scioto County to hold a special observance of National Preparedness Month. Scioto County’s activities are designed to motivate students to sit down with their families to develop plans for protecting their lives and property during a disaster, as well as encourage them to become involved in volunteer fire and EMS services when they grow older.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 6, 2007

 


 
SSU President Rita Rice Morris speaks at Kiwanis

SSU President Rita Rice Morris discusses plans for the campus as Portsmouth Kiwanis Vice President as Wayne Kempf, President-elect listens at the club’s August 29 luncheon.
 
 

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 6, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

 

SSU offers new minor in social work

(Shawnee State University students can now get a minor in social work.)

            “There are very few universities that offer degrees in social work,” said Scott Douthat, PhD, assistant professor of sociology at SSU and licensed independent social worker (LISW). “Social work is one of the very few social science majors that offers professional licensing at the baccalaureate level.”
            The social work minor is available to any Shawnee State student though most of the coursework falls under the sociology major. According to Douthat, students majoring in psychology or general social sciences would greatly benefit from this new minor if they wish to work in social/human services upon graduation.
            The sociology minor includes 21 hours of coursework, including classes in sociology, psychology and anthropology, among others. Students can obtain a list of necessary classes in the social sciences department at SSU or visit the Web site, www.shawnee.edu/acad/ssci/minors.html. Classes for the minor are available, beginning fall semester 2007.
            According to Douthat, obtaining the social sciences minor can help students in several ways.
           “It is always good to demonstrate focus and depth of study in any field,” he said. “Presently, social work is in very high demand across all social service fields, including human services, health services, mental health services, substance abuse services, child and family services, criminal justice and gerontology. It will be a great advantage to those students seeking graduate degrees in the field.”
            The social work minor was approved this spring by the SSU Board of Trustees. Social work is one of the very few social science majors that offers professional licensing at the baccalaureate level, Douthat said.
            “There is a huge shortage of licensed social workers in the region,” he said. “While this minor itself does not lead to licensure in the field, employers will almost certainly take the minor into consideration in making hiring decisions.”
            For more information, please contact Sandi Delabar, secretary of the department of social sciences, at (740) 351-3234.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 6, 2007

(Article by Rebecca Cox, communications specialist)


 

SSU hires a new academic advisor

(Deanna Roberts moves to Student Success Center)
 


            Deanna Roberts has moved from the Admission’s Office into the Student Success Center, where she will work as an academic advisor for undecided students.
            Roberts, who looks forward to the challenge, said “I am excited about the chance to help students decide on the major that will ultimately start them on the career path.”
            According to Roberts, she will be responsible for helping students draft their class schedules, discuss possible areas of degree interest, and help with academic improvement plans. She will also be assisting in tutoring needs.
            Roberts has worked at SSU for six years. As an admissions officer, she was responsible for speaking with students when they came on campus visits, conducting school visits, and attending college fairs to discuss SSU with potential students.
            The Student Success Center offers student resources, including advising, computer labs, disability services, and non-traditional student services. The SSC also offers multicultural services, placement information, orientation information, and tutoring.
            For more information, contact the Student Success Center at (740) 351-3594.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 6, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

 

SSU facilities ready for new academic year

(Shawnee State’s facilties crew continue to improve the campus)
 


            Cooling, cleaning, constructing and conserving were the four C’s for the Shawnee State University facilities crew this summer.
            The maintenance and facilities crew renovated the Cedar House apartments for almost two months this summer.
            “We had a contractor replace all the windows and the back doors and we upgraded the transformer for the entire complex,” said Butch Kotcamp, director of facilities. “We installed new plumbing all the way to the city main. We also included a new electrical service to every apartment.”
            To reduce cost, 12 electric meters were replaced with one. Since the students’ electric bills are included in room and board, units are not measured separately for electric use.
            “We had some settling on the concrete pads in the back of the building and it was pulling the meters out of the building,” Kotcamp said. “It was a safety issue but it turned out to be a cost-saver as well. Of course, the new windows and the back doors will be much more energy efficient.”
            During the first week of August, maintenance contractors began installing electronic controls on the third floor of Massie—the natural science department. They have begun the installation of a heating ventilation and air conditioning unit.
            “That will reduce our utility cost by approximately $40,000 a year,” Kotcamp said. “The third floor is one of our largest utility users because the chemistry and biology labs are located there.”
            The contractor has upgraded controls that will be monitored and operated by the energy management system allowing them to operate as a variable air system, which will reduce the amount of outside air needed in the building.
            “We have fume hoods in all of our chemistry labs and biological safety cabinets in our biology labs,” said Eugene Burns, Ph.D., chairperson of the department of natural sciences at SSU. The new system includes electronic controls to monitor the function of the hoods and cabinets as well as the rest of the HVAC system. Having a centralized monitoring system will let us know when maintenance is needed (such as replacing a filter which must be done regularly). It will be more efficient to have it all reported to a centralized location through the computerized monitoring system.”
            For more information, contact the Office of Planning, Construction and Facilities at (740) 351-3458.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 6, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)


 

Dr. Jean Kilbourne speaks at SSU

(Kilbourne presents “Deadly Persuasion: Advertising and Addiction”)
 


            What is advertising really selling us?
            Dr. Jean Kilbourne will discuss the consequences of advertising at the fifth annual Leslie Williams Symposium on Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. in the Main Theater of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts at Shawnee State University. This event is free and open to the public.
           Kilbourne, described as a “superstar lecturer” by The Boston Globe is a documentary filmmaker, social activist and author of several books, including “Can’t Buy My Love: How Advertising Changes the Way We Think and Feel.”
            “We are inundated with advertisement anywhere we look,” said Roberta Milliken, Ph.D., associate professor of English and the director of the Women’s Center at SSU. “I think it’s probably the naïve person who isn’t affected by it in any shape or form. We thought she would be a great speaker, because she would meet the needs of a lot of different audience members.”
            The award-winning films based on Kilbourne’s lectures include “Killing Us Softly,” “Spin the Bottle” and “Slim Hopes.” She has been interviewed by many magazines and newspapers, and is a frequent guest on radio and television programs, including “The Today Show” and “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”
            Kilbourne has served as an advisor to the Surgeon General and has testified before the U. S. Congress. She is a Visiting Scholar at Wellesley College.
            Kilbourne received the Lecturer of the Year award from the National Association for Campus Activities, the ACME Media Activist 2006 National Award and is profiled in the book, “Feminists Who Changed America, 1963-1975.”
            “Unfortunately, her subject doesn’t ever go away,” Milliken said. “It remains an issue for the good critical thinker to be aware of. I know her research has expanded accordingly, as advertisement has. I was blown away by her the last time she came and I expect she’ll do the same this time.”
            The lecture is also sponsored by the SSU Women’s Center and the Jane M. G. Foster Distinguished Lecture Series, administered by the SSU Development Foundation. For more information, contact Milliken at (740) 351-3738 or visit Kilbourne’s Web site, www.jeankilbourne.com.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 11, 2007

 

Shawnee State hosts National Preparedness Month observance
 
 


            On Friday, September 7, 1,500 Scioto County fourth through sixth graders learned the value of disaster planning and the rewards of volunteering during National Preparedness Month. Pictured is Area Supervisor, Officer Dean Palmer speaking with students about water safety.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 11, 2007

(Submitted Photo)

 

Seven SSU Alumni participated in White Coat Convocation Ceremony

 


            On Saturday, August 18, seven Shawnee State University Alumni participated in Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicines’ White Coat Convocation Ceremony. The students joined the class of 108 accepted into OUCOM, and they are all part of the Class of 2011. Pictured (from left to right) are as follows: Derick Adams, Chillicothe; Bryan Grooms, West Union; Debra Lewis, Northwest; Jacinda Shaw, South Webster; Jerod Walker, Minford; and Jerrad Nickell, Beaver. (Andy Little, Portsmouth, also participated; however, he is not pictured.)
 

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2007

 

SSU International Center to open its doors

(Shawnee State’s new Rose L. and Augusta Jacobs Center for International Programs will open in the former Portsmouth Jewish Temple)


            Shawnee State University will open the Rose L. and Augusta Jacobs Center for International Programs at 3:30 p.m., on Friday, September 14. Members of the Shawnee State Board of Trustees, international students, and community representatives will be in attendance.
            The new center is housed in the former Portsmouth Jewish Temple, acquired with funds from a bequest to the university by Rose L. and Augusta Jacobs during the “Poised for Tomorrow” capital campaign, a major component of which is international programming.
            Rose L. and Augusta Jacobs were prominent members of the community whose leadership of numerous civic organizations and charitable endeavors led to their both being named to Who’s Who in American Women.
            The building was constructed in 1974 and is notable for its unique hexagonal design and distinctive stained glass windows.
            As part of the sales agreement the congregation will continue to use the facility, located adjacent to the Shawnee campus, for a set number of services and ceremonies, as stipulated in a renewable annual lease.
            “This is a win-win situation for the university which gains space to promote international initiatives and for the Jewish community which will continue to have access to the center,” said Shawnee State University President Rita Rice Morris. “What better way for an international center to start its life than through an act of cooperation made possible by selfless generosity?”
            The center includes offices and meeting space for classes, lectures and special activities.
            “Shawnee State is proud to offer a venue that will promote international understanding and create opportunities for our students to become better prepared for the global marketplace,” said President Morris.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2007

(Article by Rebecca Cox, communications specialist)

 

Student from Azerbaijan at SSU

(Ahmad Ibrahimov, from Azerbaijan, to attend SSU in fall)

            In addition to the many students entering Shawnee State University this fall, an exchange student from across the globe will be on campus. Ahmad Ibrahimov, from Baku, Azerbaijan, is sharing his junior year with the community, learning all about American college life.
            Ahmad is a double exchange student, recently attending college in Russia, and is entering SSU through a highly competitive program called IREX (International Research and Exchanges Board). According to www.irex.org, IREX is an international nonprofit organization responsible for “administering cultural, professional, and scholarly exchanges,” while remaining “committed to supporting scholarship and free intellectual inquiry among scholars and individuals worldwide.” Around 2000 students applied to the program in Russia alone, Ahmad said.
            Ahmad decided to study abroad after the wonderful experience of his elder sister at Idaho State University.
            “She suggested to me that I participate in the program,” Ahmad said.
            He will be continuing his studies in his current major, environmental science.
            After more than 20 hours of travel, Ahmad arrived at the home of local physician Dr. George Pettit. He was then the guest of recent SSU graduate Kelly Hatas.
            “It was a really neat experience and he was a wonderful guest,” Hatas said. “It was fascinating to learn about his culture.”
            Ahmad will be working alongside Hatas, SSU’s Americorp/Vista Service Leader, to fulfill his community service requirements.
            After the start of the semester, in compliance with IREX guidelines, Ahmad will be living in a campus residence, joining a student who specifically requested an international student as a roommate.
            Ahmad’s hobbies include computers, sports, particularly tennis, and music.
            SSU would like to offer a welcoming hand to Ahmad Ibrahimov!
 

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2007

(Article and Photo by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

 


 
SSU welcomes Chris Moore to the diamond

(Moore becomes assistant baseball coach at SSU)

            Chris Moore is the new assistant baseball coach at SSU. Moore will also act as the recruiting coordinator, responsible for identifying and evaluating prospective student athletes and recruiting them for SSU’s program. Moore’s expertise includes pitching and coaching infield.
            Moore graduated from Central Washington University with a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in business administration. He has been involved in baseball ever since he graduated from CWU. He was assistant coach for two years at Tacoma Community College, assistant coach for three years at Indiana University and head coach for two years at IMG Baseball Academy in Florida.
            Moore said being involved in college baseball at a smaller university appealed to him.
            “Coach Tom and I have worked with each other the past three years,” he said. “I hope to instill a sense of pride in our players and the student body as a whole to become the best we can on and off the field.”
            For more information, please contact Chris Moore at (740) 351-3537.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2007

(Article by Rebecca Cox, communications specialist)

 

Ohio Underground Railroad Association to present “Conductor of the Year” award

(SSU to host The Friends of Freedom Society – Ohio Underground Railroad Association)

            Shawnee State University will host The Friends of Freedom Society – Ohio Underground Railroad Association’s twelfth annual Ohio Underground Railroad Summit on Oct. 19 and 20. The theme for this year’s Summit is “The Crossing: The Ohio River Corridor.”
            Registration will be held 5-9 p.m. on Oct. 19 at the Ramada Inn.
            Activities will be held 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 20 in SSU’s Massie’s Auditorium. Dinner will begin at 6 p.m. in the Grand Lobby of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts, followed by music, the keynote address and an awards ceremony.
            At 7:30 p.m., the keynote speaker, nationally acclaimed author Jacqueline Tobin, will discuss her book, “Between Midnight and Dawn: The Last Tracks of the Underground Railroad.”
            “The university was asked to host the Summit after the Underground Railroad marker ‘Crossing at Scioto County’ was dedicated in October 2004 and at the conclusion of the 2006 Summit meeting,” said Matt Matthews, coordinator of multicultural student affairs at SSU and co-chair of the 2007 summit committee. “The marker represents black and white residents of Scioto County who had assisted and transported slaves seeking their freedom to escape from slavery.”
            Other speakers and their topics include:
            · Dr. Andrew Feight, SSU “Joe and Jemima Logan: An Amazing Story from the Early Days of the UGRR in Southern Ohio.”
            · John Mattox, UGRR Museum Curator, Flushing, Ohio, “I’ve Been Here a Long Time.”
            · Ralph Alexander, Batavia, Ohio, “Tranquility: The John T. Wilson UGRR House Restoration Project.”
            · John Ogden, researcher and historian of Alexandria, Va., “The Steels: An Abolitionist Family.”
            · Anthony Gibbs, Columbus, Ohio, “The Promised Land: John P. Parker and the Underground Railroad.”
            · Cathy Nelson, Columbus, Ohio, Friends and Freedom Society Founder and President Emeritus, and Jack Marchbanks, former director of the Ohio Department of Transportation, “A Vision: The River Lake UGRR Freedom Trail Project.”
            The evening will conclude with a recognition and awards ceremony at 8:30 p.m., when the Ohio UGRR will name the “Conductor of the Year.”
            The cost for the summit is $80, while attending only the banquet is $25. Register online or contact Cathy Nelson at (614) 868-1246. The deadline for registration is September 30. Tobin’s book can be purchased in the Grand Lobby following the event.
            This event is sponsored by The Friends of Freedom Society, Inc. For more information, contact Matthews at (740) 351-3553 or visit the Ohio Underground Railroad Association’s Website at www.ohioundergroundrailroad.org.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

 


 
SSU welcomes John Huston to its fine arts department

(Huston returns to Portsmouth to teach theatre)

            College isn’t just about making the grade, but also about personal expression, and John Huston is excited to help students bring out their creativity through theatre.
            As the new associate professor of theatre and coordinator of the theatre program, John Huston will be teaching theatre courses, directing productions and managing theatre activities, duties formerly held by Vivian Robinson.
            Huston, a resident of Lucasville, Ohio, in his youth and young adult years, looks forward to the opportunities presented by working at Shawnee State.
            “Upon discovering an opening at SSU, I decided to apply for the position to perhaps relocate back to the area and be closer to family members,” he said. “I was excited about the growth of Shawnee State, the positive influence it has on the community and the additional potential that the fine arts programs—especially theatre—can offer to the surrounding areas. I enjoy the creative environment of the fine arts, and the opportunity to teach, work with and mentor students.”
            Huston holds a bachelor’s degree in from Kent State University in music with concentrations in piano and voice. His master’s of fine arts is in theatre, with a concentration in scenic design, from the University of Memphis in Memphis, TN. As a professional scenic designer, Huston has designed more than 50 productions for theatre, opera, musicals, and ballet. Huston has held the position of Production Designer for the Southern Ohio Light Opera, located here in Portsmouth, which performs annually during the summer at the VRCFA.
            Huston taught for nearly 15 years at Southwest State University in Marshall, Minn., and most recently at Lake Erie College, in Painesville, Ohio, where he held the position of associate professor of theatre and area chair of fine arts.
            “I hope to establish a highly respected theatre program for Shawnee State that supports and trains students for advanced degree programs, professional careers, and to be supporters of the Arts,” Huston said.
            For more information, contact Huston at (740) 351-3335.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2007

 

 

Literacy Council of Scioto County Kicks Off

(Literacy Council Director Susan McComas announces efforts to improve adult literacy and promote childhood reading)


            Surrounded by the stacks of books in Shawnee State University’s library, the Literacy Council of Scioto County introduced to the community the newly-formed organization’s director, Susan McComas.
           “We were very fortunate to get someone of Susan’s talents and experience,” said Hilda Drake, chair of the board Literacy Council Board. “Susan will bring the leadership we need to better serve the people of Scioto County.”
            Prior to her taking the helm of the Literacy Council, McComas was director of the Wayne County (W.Va.) Public Library. She holds a master’s degree in adult and technical education from Marshall University and a bachelor of fine arts degree from Denison University.
            McComas discussed the status of literacy in Scioto County and the impact of poor reading skills on the quality of life.
            “In Scioto County we have too few people going to college and too many people who are low-level readers. The two are directly related,” said McComas. “Literacy is the key to a brighter future and we are dedicated to helping more people learn to read.”
            The Literacy Council was created in response to a request from the groups in Scioto County providing literacy services who sought better coordination of their efforts, and the opportunity to pursue new sources of funding.
            “Randy Arnett, Jan Broughton and myself felt strongly enough about the importance of literacy that we brought together the groups promoting literacy in Scioto County and encouraged them to come up with solutions. That led to the creation of the Literacy Council,” said Shawnee State University President Rita Rice Morris. “Shawnee State, SOMC and Portsmouth City Schools are all committed to providing whatever support we can to facilitate the efforts of the Literacy Council.”
            Two initiatives mentioned by McComas were creating a one-on-one adult tutoring program and participation in the Reach Out and Read program coalition, which seeks to make literacy promotion a standard part of pediatric primary care.
            “The role for the Literacy Council of Scioto County will be to identify volunteer pediatric organizations as participants in the program and assist with implementation and funding,” said McComas.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2007

(Article and photo by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)


 


 
SSU welcomes Dr. James Simmons to campus

(Simmons to teach physics at SSU)

            James Simmons, Ph.D., brings more than 19 years experience to his new position as assistant professor of physics at Shawnee State University.
            Simmons has taught at Concordia College in Moorhead, Mn., Shimer College in Chicago, Universidade Pedagógica in Beira, Mozambique, and Waynesburg College in Waynesburg, Pa.
            “At Waynesburg, I was the only physicist on the faculty, so I'm looking forward to having other physicists to talk to,” Simmons said. Simmons will also assist in the growth of the physics program.
            Simmons resides in Portsmouth with his wife, Tracey Henderson, son Micah, age 7, and daughters Sarah and Hannah, ages 8 and 9. He has been a baseball lover long enough to remember Crosley Field.
            For more information, contact Simmons at (740) 351-3341.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 14, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

 

SSU Teacher Education students once again get top grades!

(All SSU Teacher Education grads pass Praxis III evaluations)
 

            One-hundred-percent of the Shawnee State University Teacher Education graduates who completed their entry year experience during the 2006-2007 academic year passed their Praxis III on-site teaching evaluation, part of The Praxis Series™: Teacher Licensure and Certification assessments.
            According to Paul Madden, Ph.D., chair and assistant professor in the department of teacher education at SSU, the entry year experience is required for all beginning teachers who have recently earned their provisional, 2-year license and have been hired in a teaching position in their licensure area.
            “Before they are eligible to transition to a professional, five-year license, they must pass the Praxis III on-site teaching evaluation,” Madden said. “If they don’t pass the Praxis III, they will need to renew their provisional license and will not be permitted to have the professional license until the Praxis III is completed.”
            Praxis III Assessors are experienced educators trained to evaluate beginning teachers. Four areas are closely examined an evaluated throughout the entry year experience, including organizing content knowledge for student learning, creating an environment for student learning, teaching for student learning and teacher professionalism.
            “Our teacher candidates are quite accustomed to the Praxis evaluation system and are prepared to perform in each of the domain areas,” Madden said. “In addition to their standards-based preparation, SSU candidates are very experienced with the documentation of their professional performance according to national and state standards. A competency based, professional evaluation system is nothing new to an SSU graduate.”
            For more information, contact the SSU Teacher Education Department at (740) 351-3451.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 14, 2007

(Article by Monica Bradbury, communications specialist)

 

SSU’s Upward Bound receives funding for 2007-2008

(The U.S. Department of Education has recognized the quality of SSU’s Upward Bound Math & Science program with renewed funding)

            Shawnee State University’s Upward Bound Math Science program has been approved for another four-year grant by the United States Department of Education.
            The grant request was submitted by Tim Amburgey, former director of UBMS. The program was awarded a $250,000 grant. Nearly 275 applicants were eligible for grants; however only 110 applicants were funded.
            “I cannot explain how excited and happy I am for these students right now,” said Steve Cunningham, program assistant for UBMS. “The grant will allow students in the region to continue with the UBMS experience and still live that dream of going to college. There are a lot of great activities planned this upcoming year and I’m really looking forward to seeing how everything develops.”
            The UBMS program is designed to provide students in Appalachia with an exciting learning experience in the math and science fields.
            UBMS now will allow add freshmen students to participate in the program. Throughout the academic year, UBMS will host monthly workshops and activities. Junior and senior high school students will also visit colleges and universities. UBMS staff still plan on taking students on one weekend trip and taking upcoming students and second year students out west for the annual trip. An Alumni Day has also been added to the summer UBMS schedule.
            According to Cunningham, there are a few changes that have been made to the grant stipulations this year.
            “Rather than serving approximately 20 schools per year, UBMS will only be recruiting students at six high schools,” Cunningham said. Schools include Ironton, Dawson-Bryant, Ripley, West Union, Piketon, and Greenup County. “This allows for us to have more contact with the students throughout the academic year.”
            For more information, contact Cunningham at (740) 351-3402.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 14, 2007

 

A longtime friend to Shawnee State University has found another way to help SSU students and the community.
 

            Ada Appleton has donated $100,000 to Poised for Tomorrow, Shawnee State’s capital campaign. The gift was used to create the Appleton Family Scholarship, which will be awarded to outstanding SSU students who exhibit financial need.
            This is Appleton’s second major donation to SSU following a charitable remainder trust she and her late husband, Dr. Donald Appleton, established in 1996.
            Appleton was able to make this second gift by taking advantage of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 which allows donors to give directly to a non-profit organization from their Individual Retirement Accounts without incurring taxes.
            When Appleton heard of this benefit, she knew that SSU was where she wanted her money to go. “What better place to put it?” Appleton said. “I wanted the money to stay here and with the way Shawnee State is growing and helping this area so much, it seems like the best place.”
            It was Appleton’s family that suggested she do a scholarship. “I immediately agreed that we should help the young people of the community,” Appleton said.
            SSU President Rita Rice Morris praised Appleton’s gift as a great benefit to the University. “Ada is a loyal friend to Shawnee State and we are so thankful for her continued support. This scholarship will provide outstanding students, who may not otherwise have the financial resources, the ability to obtain a university degree. ”
            The expansion of the scholarship program is one of the seven initiatives of Poised for Tomorrow. “The power to attract and retain motivated students is critical to the future of Shawnee State and the availability of scholarship funds is a key component to that,” Morris said. “An expanded scholarship program will allow us to attract talented individuals and potential leaders.”
            For Appleton, this gift is also a chance to give back to the community that gave Donald’s medical practice so much support. “After all, the reason I can give back is because of what the community gave us,” she said.
            Poised for Tomorrow is a $12 million capital and endowment campaign to support a broad array of campus initiatives. Those initiatives include undergraduate research, new technologies, specialized studies, faculty development, scholarships, enhanced clinical experiences and an enhanced quality of life for the region.
           Anyone wanting more information about Poised for Tomorrow can call the Development Office at (740) 351-3284 or visit the university’s website at www.shawnee.edu.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 14, 2007

 (Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

 

SSU to observe Constitution Day

(Dr. John Kelley presents at Constitution Day 2007)
 

            To observe Constitution Day, Shawnee State University is hosting a lecture by John L. Kelley, Ph.D. at 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 17 in the Flohr Lecture Hall of the Clark Memorial Library.
            Kelley will present a historical review of American war making and congressional efforts to control the commander-in-chief with his presentation in “Presidential War Powers and Congress—A Constitutional Quagmire?”
            “According to a law enacted in 2005, all educational institutions receiving federal funding (such as SSU) are required to hold an educational program pertaining to the United States Constitution on September 17 of each year,” said Stylianos Hadjiyannis, professor of government and international relations, and associate director of SSU’s Center for International Programs and Activities. The law is on the Federal Register as Document 05-10355. “Dr. Kelly was chosen to be the guest speaker beaker he is a noted author and has extensive knowledge of U.S. history and politics.”
            During a 35 year career teaching college history, Dr. Kelley, fostered academic excellence at SSU and participated in campus leadership, holding positions as Faculty Senate president, interim provost and interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
            Dr. Kelly authored “Bringing the Market Back in: The Political Revitalization of Market Liberalism,” and his book reviews and articles have appeared in “The American Spectator,” “Missouri Historical Review,” “Continuity,” and “The Independent Review.” For his long career and many contributions, in 2005 the SSU Board of Trustees bestowed upon Dr. Kelley the rare distinction of professor emeritus.
            The event is sponsored by the Office of the Provost. The lecture is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Hadjiyannis at (740) 351-3445.

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2007

SSU Board of Trustees approves salary increase for President Morris
 

            At its meeting held on September 14 in the Homer Selby Board Room of the Clark Library, the Shawnee State University Board of Trustees approved a salary increase for university president Rita Rice Morris.
            “Under the leadership of President Morris, the progress of Shawnee State in the last year has far exceeded the board’s expectations,” said Howard H. Harcha, chairman of the Board of Trustees. “We are proud to have the opportunity of recognizing the merit of President Morris’ work by means of a salary increase.”
            Morris’ new salary is $183,500.
            “By its action today the Board of Trustees wants to send the clearest possible signal that it has the utmost faith in President Morris and in her capacity to negotiate the challenges Shawnee State faces as it endeavors to be a high quality regional university in the 21st century,” said Harcha.

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)


 

Travel the world with Dr. Hadjiyannis

(Choose from three study abroad opportunities)

            Looking to expand your horizons in the new year?
            Shawnee State University’s Center for International Programs and Activities is offering three opportunities for students and community members to travel and study abroad.
            Choose from the following tours:
            Four European nations, including the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Austria from June 5 to June 15, 2008;
            Great Britain from Mar. 15 to Mar. 23, 2008; or
            Five European nations, including Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, France and Germany from May 24 to June 4.
            Each trip will cost from $1,580-$1,800 per person and will include airfare, hotel stay, daily breakfasts, transportation to and from the airport, and day trips.
            In the last ten years, Hadjiyannis has hosted 13 trips—eight to Greece, three to Britain, one to Ireland and one to five European nations. Hadjiyannis said he averages 28 participants per trip.
            “I chose the destinations because I have lived in those nations or have in the past visited them often and for long periods of time,” Hadjiyannis said. “I am very familiar with them and feel very comfortable acting as guide. I also have academic expertise in the politics, history and society of those nations.”
            Students are advised to consult their advisors and with the financial aid office before registering. A CIPA grant of $2,000 will be equally shared among all enrolled students to defray costs. Reservations should be made early and are now being accepted.
            Priority will go to students enrolled in the course. For more information, contact Hadjiyannis at (740) 351-3445.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

(Submitted photo)
 


 
Author Sonya Hamlin to speak at SSU

(Kricker Lecture Series to include Hamlin)
 

            Do you feel like no one is listening to you?
            Sonya Hamlin, communication expert and author of “How to Talk So People Listen: Connecting in Today's Workplace,” will share her communication skills at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 4 in the Flohr Lecture Hall in SSU’s Clark Memorial Library. Hamlin has been invited to speak as part of the Kricker Lecture Series.
            “Sonya Hamlin is a communications expert, both for the larger corporation as well as smaller businesses,” said Robbie Burke, professor of business management at SSU. “Communication is a vital part of personal and public life. Hamlin focuses on how communication has changed among the different generations and how the ‘generation gap’ affects our ability to communicate with different age groups.”
            President of Sonya Hamlin Communications, Hamlin’s major focus is on business communication, both verbal and visual. Hamlin is a pioneer in the field of courtroom communication, having created a course at the Harvard Law School in 1978. She lectures worldwide and consults on cases with law firms, consulting on juries and advocacy skills, preparing witnesses, developing strategies and creating visual presentations of evidence.
            Starting as a dancer, choreographer and musician, Hamlin attended Julliard and earned a Bachelor of Science and master’s degree from New York University. She began her communication career as a performer and chairman of Radcliffe's Dance Department.
            A two-time Emmy Award winner, Hamlin’s television career included hosting and co-producing her own daily TV talk show, “The Sonya Hamlin Show” in Boston, directing, writing, producing and filming television documentaries. She was also the first cultural reporter on the news in the United States.
            Hamlin also created the courtroom communication course at the Harvard Law School in 1978.
            The lecture is free and open to the public and is sponsored by the Kricker Fund, part of the Scioto County Area Foundation, and administered by the SSU Development Foundation. For more information, contact Burke at (740) 351-3355 or visit Hamlin’s Web site at www.sonyahamlin.com.

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Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

 

 

SSU welcomes Ted Tom to the diamond

(Tom to coach baseball at SSU)

          Ted Tom, a Shawnee State University alum, is back to coach baseball.
          “I have set these goals for our program: graduate players; compete on a national level; and gain the support of those around us,” said Ted Tom, head baseball coach at SSU.  “If we do these things, the rest will take care of itself.”
          Tom will be in charge of running the day-to-day operations of the baseball program.  He holds a bachelor’s degree in sports management with minors in sport coaching and business from Shawnee State University and a master’s degree in athletic administration from Indiana University.
          After two years as volunteer assistant baseball coach at Indiana University, Tom was named the outfield instructor of IMG Academies in Bradenton, Florida.  While there, he also served as an assistant coach at the Pendleton School and head coach in the Florida Collegiate Instructional League.  He was head coach of the Outer Banks Daredevils in the Coastal Plain League during the summer of 2006.

          “I applied for this position for the opportunity not only to return to college baseball but to return to Shawnee State,” Tom said.  “Shawnee State holds a special place in my life and to have an opportunity to return is an honor.  I will enjoy the challenge of making Shawnee State baseball synonymous with graduation, hard work, and success not only on the field, but in the community.”
          Tom played for Shawnee State from 2001 to 2004.  He was a red-shirt member of the 2000 team that finished 5th in the NAIA World Series.  Tom is a native of Lancaster, Ohio, and is married to Lisa (Dingus) of South Webster, Ohio.
          For more information, please contact Coach Tom at (740) 351-3537.

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2007

(Article by Monica Bradbury, communications specialist)
 


 

Shawnee State offers ACT Test Prep Course

(Cure pre-test jitters with ACT test prep course at SSU)
 

            Tests can be nerve-wracking—especially those tests important for college entrance. Knowing what to expect can help.
            Shawnee State’s University’s Outreach Services is sponsoring an ACT test prep course, beginning Oct. 1. Each five-session course will cover math, English, writing, reading and science reasoning.
            “Preparing for the ACT can increase test scores that are important for gaining entry into the college of your choice and in receiving scholarships,” said Ginnie Moore, director of University Outreach Services.
            The sessions are from 6 to 8:30 p.m. and students can choose between either the first or second series for the following subjects:
            · Math on Oct. 1 or Nov. 5 with John Whitaker, Ph.D., assistant professor of mathematical sciences;
            · English on Oct. 3 or Nov. 7 with Barbara Ann Qualls, M.A., A.B.D., adjunct faculty for English and humanities;
            · Writing on Oct. 8 or Nov. 12 with Qualls;
            · Science reasoning on Oct. 10 or Nov. 14; the instructor will be announced soon; and
            · Reading on Oct. 15 or Nov. 19 with Qualls.
            The first series helps students prepare for the Oct. 17 test date and the November series prepares students for the Dec. 8 test date. The series costs $149. The fee includes an extensive practice test booklet and other materials. Registration is available until the day before each class. The class locations will be announced when the student registers. Payment must be received no later than 48 hours before the first session date.
            “Everyone gets nervous about taking this important test,” Moore said. “However, it is a proven fact that taking a prep class helps you improve your score.”
            To register or for more information, call Ginnie Moore at (740) 351-3274 or toll free (866) 672-8778.
 

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

(Photo by Tracy Conn)


 


 
Casey Glenn is SSU’s new Box Office Representative

(Glenn to manage McKinley Box Office at VRCFA)


            Casey Glenn has enjoyed working the past six years at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts at Shawnee State University and expects her new full-time position as box office representative will be just as rewarding.
            Glenn is a graduate of Shawnee State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She also worked as a student employee and as a temporary box office representative at the VRCFA from 2001 to 2005.
            Glenn began her new position June 25. Her duties are to accurately account for all box office sales, produce sales reports and to manage student employees in order to efficiently operate the box office.
            “Having worked here as a student, I was acquainted with the staff and faculty in the VRCFA, as well as the regular patrons of the center,” Glenn said. “It was a great opportunity. There’s always something happening at the Vern Riffe Center.”
            Glenn hopes to promote the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts more.
            “I feel it is a tremendous resource in the Scioto River Valley,” she said.
             For more information, contact Glenn at (740) 351-3600.

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2007

SSU RELEASES DEAN’S LIST FOR SUMMER 2007 SEMESTER


Michael Field, Ph.D., provost and vice president for academic affairs at Shawnee State University (SSU), has released the dean's list for the Summer 2007 Semester. To be named to the list, individuals must be full-time and have achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or better.

Kentucky

Quincy

Megan Wright

South Shore

Courtney Vastine


Ohio

Bainbridge

Erin Mustard

Chillicothe

Christopher Bruce

Dayton

Amanda Jay

Hillsboro

Mallory Reed

Lancaster

Melia Downour

Lucasville

Megan Adams

Robert Castle

Justin Howard

Eric Reinhardt

Minford

Hillary Llewellyn

Mount Orab

Veronica Olivieri

Peebles

Deborah Measel

Zachary Measel

Piketon

Alisha Brewster

Nathan Spriggs

Portsmouth

Hayley Castle

Cheryl Cogar

Ryan Hickman

Gonzalo Perez-Beck

Meagan Rhea

Sciotoville

Tracie Basham

South Point

Nathan Pinkerman

Lee West

South Webster

Brandon McGahan

Springfield

Kristina Jarrell

Stout

Jessica Bilyeu

Thurman

Melissa Ireland

W. Portsmouth

Christopher Gillum

Waverly

Esther Henson

Lauren Minor

Jeanetta Sowards

Benjamin Wallace

Wellston

Brent Ewing

Wheelersburg

Christopher Blevins
 
 

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2007

 

SSU RELEASES PRESIDENT’S LIST FOR SPRING 2007 QUARTER


Rita Rice Morris, Ph.D., president of Shawnee State University (SSU), has released the president’s list for the Summer 2007 Semester. To be named to the list, students must be full-time and have achieved a grade point average of 4.0.

Ohio

Caldwell
Whitney Garvin

Lucasville
Lesley Howard

Portsmouth
Kyle Mitchell

Ravenna
Stephanie Jeffrey

Waverly
Nicole Marshall

West Milton
Casey Wooddell

Wheelersburg
Joseph Collins
Jared Madden
 
 

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2007

(Photo by Jeff Perez)

 

Dr. John Kelley presented at Constitution Day 2007

            On Monday, September 17, 2007, Dr. John L. Kelley (former Shawnee State professor, Faculty Senate president, interim provost and interim dean of the College of Art and Sciences) spoke in SSU’s observance of Constitution Day. Dr. Kelley presented “Presidential War Powers and Congress—A Constitutional Quagmire?” The event was sponsored by the Office of Provost, and it was free and was open to the public.

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)
 

SSU hosts second annual Alumni Weekend

(Alumni are invited back to SSU for a weekend of fun)

 

            Alumni are invited to the second alumni weekend festivities at Shawnee State University.
            The Alumni and Scholarship Awards reception will take place Friday, Sept. 28 at 6 p.m. in the Baxter Lounge of the University Center.
            “This year, we decided to combine two of our special campus events,” said Angela Henderson, assistant director of development and alumni affairs at SSU. “We will be recognizing two of our alumni with special awards and recognizing recipients of the scholarships from the Development Foundation as well as honoring the donors who made those scholarships possible.”
            There will be two major awards presented at the reception—the Distinguished Alumnus Award to Craig Gilliland and the Alumni Service Award to Brian Saul.
           Gilliland is the administrative director of financial support and facilities at Southern Ohio Medical Center, where he is overseeing SOMC’s $110 million expansion project. He is also responsible for the oversight of $400 million in existing buildings over four campuses, nine off-site locations and 30 physician practices renting from SOMC. He holds three degrees from Shawnee State University: a bachelor’s degree in business administration, an associate degree in computer information systems and an associate degree in accounting. He also has an M.B.A. from Ohio University.
            Gilliland continues to serve SSU as an adjunct professor. He also is involved in United Way, the Portsmouth Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Southern Ohio Growth Partnership board, and the Scioto Foundation Investment Committee. He is a past member of the SSU Development Foundation. Gilliland and his wife, Melanie, have three children, Lexie, Cole and Delanie.
            Brian Saul graduated from Shawnee State in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in social science. He is now the transfer coordinator in the Admissions Office at SSU. Saul was an SSU Student Government President 1995-1996 and a student member of the SSU Board of Trustees from 1994 to 1996. In 1998, Saul completed a year of community service with the AmeriCorp program. In 2000, Saul began working as a recruiter and administrator in the office of admission at SSU. He assisted with several alumni events in the Columbus area during that time.
            “Serving in various capacities throughout the university, I’ve always tried to keep alumni relations on the front burner,” Saul said. “I am honored and humbled to receive this award.”
            Saul also received the 1991 Army Commendation Medal, the 1997 SSU Student Star Award, the 2003 Ohio Association of College Admission Counseling New Member Award, the 2003 Tau Kappa Epsilon Alumni of the Year Award and the 2003 SSU Administrator Performance Award. Saul resides in South Point, Ohio, with his wife Sheryl.
            “Brian is really one of Shawnee State’s biggest cheerleaders,” Henderson said. “He was nominated by a fellow alum who really wanted to see Brian acknowledged for everything he’s done for the university.”
            Both awardees were selected by the Alumni Council, the Board of Directors of the Alumni Association. The recipient of the Alumnus of Tomorrow Award was Jeanette (Bauer) Brammer and she will be recognized at the reception, as well.
            The Alumni picnic will take place Saturday, Sept. 29 from noon to 2 p.m. on the Alumni Green. Shawn E. Bear will be in attendance from noon to 1 p.m.
            “The picnic is open to the alumni and we’re hoping they’ll bring their families,” Henderson said. “There’s going to be food, music provided by the local band Mindchaser, of which alum Doug Parsley is a member, an inflatable and games for the kids, cornhole, and a slacklining demonstration. There will be things for the entire family to enjoy. ”
            “After the picnic, both the men’s and women’s soccer team will be playing, so I hope all the alumni will stay and support the soccer teams,” Henderson said.
            For more information about these events, contact Angela Henderson at (740) 351-3182 or email alumni@shawnee.edu.

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25, 2007

Shawnee State now offers online software coaching

Workshop Introductions Offered Wednesday, September 26! A Few Seats Still Available!
 

            Does the thought of having to create a mail merge in WORD send shivers down your spine? Or maybe you need help creating a graph in EXCEL?
            Shawnee State University has partnered with Atomic Learning, award-winning provider of software training, to provide students, faculty and staff with on-demand, online access to training on over 5000 software applications 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
            An introduction to the new service will be offered by Atomic Learning staff at 9:30 a.m. and at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 26 in Library 110. According to Dr. Barbara Kunkle, Director of the Teaching and Learning Center, the afternoon session is nearly full, while the morning session still has about six seats available.
            All students and employees with MYSSU access can easily access the site by logging in to MYSSU and clicking on the Employee tab.
            Atomic Learning breaks programs down into manageable tasks and explains each task through a one- to three-minute tutorial movie. Users can log on to Atomic Learning to find training on applications such as Microsoft Office, Appleworks, Adobe Photoshop, Dreamweaver and many other programs commonly used at Shawnee State University.
            To learn more about Atomic Learning, visit www.AtomicLearning.com/highed, or contact Dr. Kunkle at 351-3334.
            “Our unique training methods allow people to customize learning to their individual preferences,” said Atomic Learning’s CEO, Dan Meyer. “Use the online resources whenever you like, log on to find an answer to a quick question, watch a series of tutorials to become familiar with an application in its entirety, repeat tutorials as many times as you need to—the choice is yours. We’ve found that our method helps people truly learn and retain knowledge.”

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

 

SSU offers wet-on-wet oil painting

(Toni Hatfield to share her love of painting with others)
 

            Whether you have never picked up a brush or you are a Rembrandt in the making, you should check out the new wet-on-wet painting course to be taught by Toni Hatfield at Shawnee State University.
            The course will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 2 to Dec. 11 in the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts Room 303.
            Hatfield taught a successful painting class in the spring at SSU.
            By starting with a wet canvas for this method of painting, paint flows freely allowing blending and color-mixing on the canvas. Participants will learn how brush pressure and the use of specific brushes determine shapes and figures as the subject of the painting is slowly revealed.
            “It’s something I’m passionate about and I want to share my gift with others,” Hatfield said. “There may be some people walking around who don’t know they have the gift until they try. Painting is something I’d wanted to do all my life. Finally, I was able to in 2004 and God’s taking it places I never dreamed. It’s been an exciting journey so far.”
            Supplies needed for this course include:
            Oil paints in white, black, sap green, Prussian Blue, alizarin crimson, cadmium yellow and yellow ochre;
            Canvas;
            Odorless paint thinner;
            Liquid (Magic) White;
            Palette; and
            Brushes, including a number three and number six fan brush, 2’ and 1’ brush, a linear brush and a palette knife.
            Supplies must be purchased prior to class and are available at Toy Town, where SSU students will receive a 10 percent discount. Items can also be purchased via the Hobby Lobby website, www.hobbylobby.com, which also offers coupons for supplies.
            “I have sold some paintings,” Hatfield said. She is scheduled to showcase her work Oct. 11-14 at the Foothills Arts Festival in Jackson, Ohio. “I entered the fair this fall and was awarded a first and two second place finishes. I’d like to give students the basic tools so they can go home and use those techniques so they can feel confident to create a painting to be proud of.””
            The course costs $129 and is available to all persons with little, much or no experience. For more information, contact University Outreach Services at (740) 351-3274.

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2007

(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

 

 

Dr. Thomas Piontek joins the faculty at SSU

 

(Piontek to teach English at SSU)

            While he has had the opportunity to travel on three continents, Dr. Thomas Piontek is happy to be at Shawnee State University.

            “I’m interested in working at an institution where they don’t just pay lip service to teaching, they actually take it serious,” said Thomas Piontek, Ph.D., assistant professor of English at SSU.

            Piontek will teach women’s studies classes and introductions to literature and to composition, as well as general education courses for the IDST program.

            “I’m very dedicated to an institution that has so many cross-generational students because I was the first one in my family to go to college,” he said. “Both my parents have an eighth grade education, so I wouldn’t have been able to get an education if there hadn’t have been a university right in my hometown. The idea of going away was nearly impossible.”

            Piontek did his undergraduate work at the University of Frankfurt, Germany, and at the University of Hull in England.

            “While I was in England, I changed my major from English to American studies,” Piontek said. “I had a really good American professor and he taught a class on the historical novel and I was just fascinated with that. The moment I came home, I decided I was an American studies major.”

            Piontek’s professor at the University of Hull recommended that Piontek further his education—in the United States.

            “He said, now, you have a British-German accent and you’re studying American studies—go abroad for a year,” Piontek said. “We had an exchange program with the University of Wisconsin. I basically just applied to shut up my professor but then was surprised when I actually was accepted for that position. I didn’t really know where Milwaukee was.”

            He then completed his master’s degree in English at Western Illinois University. After receiving his doctorate in English at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he taught German classes, Piontek returned to the University of Frankfurt as an adjunct assistant professor in the Institute of Cultural Anthropology and European Ethnology. The following year, he was an assistant professor of English at Ohio State University, followed by two years as visiting assistant professor of English at Otterbein College in Westerville, Ohio.

            “We assume sometimes you should teach who or what you are, but just as all women are not automatically feminists, I think that it’s a question of your commitment to feminist pedagogy and having been trained in that particular area,” Piontek said.

            Piontek has already gotten his feet wet by volunteering with the Women’s Center at SSU.

            “I worked at Ohio State University and taught as an associate faculty member in the department of women’s studies,” he said. “They started out as a minor and now have a full-fledged department with a master’s and a PhD. program. That’s a very common history of women’s studies departments. That gives you an idea of what might be possible at Shawnee State; it’s really quite exciting.”

            Piontek is the author of “Queering Gay and Lesbian Studies” and is working on a book about queer alternatives to the traditional family.

            For more information, contact Piontek at (740) 351-3142.

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2007

(Cutline by Jeff Perez, Executive Director, Communications & Government Affairs)

SSU Board of Trustees Chairman Harcha speaks at the opening of the new Jacobs International Center
 

 

            Howard H. Harcha, Chairman of the Shawnee State University Board of Trustees, participated in the dedication of the new Rose L. and Augusta Jacobs Center for International Programs and Activities.

            The new center is housed in the former Portsmouth Jewish Temple, acquired with funds from a bequest to the university by Rose L. and Augusta Jacobs during the “Poised for Tomorrow” capital campaign, a major component of which is international programming.

            The center will help international students attending Shawnee State fully integrate into campus life as well as sponsor programs and activities that foster the broad perspective necessary for success in the 21st century global economy.

# # #

Shawnee State University
940 Second Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2007

(Photo by Jeff Perez, Executive Director, Communicatisons & Government Affairs)

 

Roller hockey the new club sport on campus!

(Enjoy the fast pace of roller hockey as Shawnee State’s club plays its first game against Miami University of Ohio on Saturday.)

 

            Be a part of history and witness Shawnee State’s new roller hockey club compete in its first game, set to begin at 5:30 p.m. on September 29 at the Garden Roller Rink in Ashland, KY.

            The Shawnee State club has been accepted to join the Midwest Collegiate Roller Hockey League, and along with Miami University of Ohio, plans to compete against club teams from Ohio State, Michigan State, Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Ball State, Purdue, to name a few.

           The Garden Roller Rink is located at 5656 Us Route 60 in Ashland, KY.  The rink’s phone number is (606) 928-3055.  For more information contact Casey Todt at 740-821-1123.

# # #

 
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