Donna Burgraff named dean of Ohio University-Chillicothe

Following is a message from Ohio University Executive Dean of Regional Campuses Dan Evans regarding Donna Burgraff being named the new dean of Ohio University-Chillicothe. A story about this appointment is available in Compass, the university’s online newsletter at http://www.ohio.edu/compass/stories/09-10/6/Donna-Burgraff-OUC-Dean-692.cfm
June 25

I am pleased to announce that Dr. Donna Burgraff has accepted an appointment as the next Dean of the Chillicothe Campus. Following a national search to replace outgoing Dean, Rich Bebee, who leaves the position on June 30, 2010, Dr. Burgraff will begin her term as Dean on August 1, 2010. I have asked Associate Dean, Michael Lafreniere, to serve as Acting Dean of the campus during the one-month interim.

Dr. Burgraff brings with her a broad and progressive career in higher education. Currently serving as Dean of the College of Business, Education and Professional Studies at Southwest Minnesota State University in Minnesota, Dr. Burgraff has also previously held administrative positions at Kutztown University in Pennsylvania, Marshall University in West Virginia, and at the Williamson Campus of Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College.

OU-C to offer courses leading to bachelor’s degree in health services administration

Students taking classes at Ohio University-Chillicothe will soon be able to pursue a bachelor’s degree in health services administration beginning this fall.

The academic offering is part of the Health Services Administration Program at Ohio University, and it prepares students for administrative management positions in settings such as hospitals, physician practices, managed care organizations and other health delivery systems.

“This offering underscores the campus’ commitment to serving its students and serving its region,” OU-C Dean Richard Bebee said. “This program prepares students for administrative careers in the growth health-care field and helps to ensure that this region has highly competent professionals administering health-care facilities. This is an important aspect in supporting the quality of life for this special region of the state.”

OU-C tennis teams hold awards dinner

The OU-C tennis teams recently held their awards event.

Players receiving recognition were:

Men’s Team

• MVP – Jesse Bissell
• Sportsmanship Award – Daniel Zavala
• Most Improved Player -- Jason Henry

Women’s Team

• MVP – Jessica McComis
• Sportsmanship Award – Caitlin Keaton
• Most Improved Player — Ashley Montgomery
• First Team All-ORCC – Ashley Montgomery, Rachel Metcalf
• Second Team All-ORCC – Jessica McComis

The OU-C tennis teams completed their second year of competition under coach Ellen Clark. The women’s team finished with a 5-1 record and a first-place finish in the Ohio Regional Campus Conference Tournament. The men’s team was 0-6 and finished fourth in the ORCC tourney.

OU-C student-athletes share insights with area youth during volleyball camp at YMCA

Ohio University-Chillicothe volleyball players are helping future stars begin their careers during a volleyball camp at the local YMCA this week. Through June 25, OU-C players are leading a camp for students entering grades 4 through 8 at the YMCA of Ross County, 100 Mill St. in Chillicothe. The camp focuses on the basics of the game, including passing, spiking, serving and game tactics.

“Most of our players are from this area and they look forward to sharing their insights with area youth as they help to develop the next generation of volleyball players,” OU-C volleyball Coach Tara Bethel said. “I feel this is an excellent opportunity for our players to step into a leadership role. Many of my players are future educators, and this is a great experience for them. My players are from area high schools, and each brings a unique style of volleyball. I enjoy watching them share their knowledge and skills with future players.”

June 28 events mark OU-C’s emphasis on serving its region

Two events on June 28 will highlight projects involving Ohio University-Chillicothe that promise to benefit the region by making higher education more accessible and by supporting the campus’ role as an economic driver for the region. The public is invited to attend both events.

At 10 a.m. on June 28, representatives of OU-C and Teays Valley High School will formally sign an agreement to establish a partnership between the campus and the high school to create the Teays Valley Center. The event will be held at Teays Valley High School in Ashville.

Since June 21, OU-C has been offering nursing courses and support courses at Teays Valley in space that was recently renovated to accommodate projected growth in the school district. Deaf studies and interpreting classes will be added this fall. The nursing classes are being relocated from Berger Health System, where they are currently being offered.