With faculty members who are devoted to student success, academic offerings that are linked to local career fields and a campus culture that is both vibrant and unique, Ohio University-Chillicothe students are enjoying the best of what Ohio University has to offer.
With his experience on both the Athens and Chillicothe campuses, Dean Tuck has a unique perspective. Tuck, who was previously associate provost, understands first-hand how the Athens and regional campuses are similar in terms of offering a quality educational experience. He also realizes how the campuses differ in terms of the types of students the campuses serve and how they offer programs that are as unique as the learners themselves.
Tuck, who was appointed interim dean of the OU-C campus in May, says that the campus has a firm grasp on how to best accommodate the needs of non-traditional students, who comprise about 50 percent of the campus’ student population, without detracting from the needs of traditional students.
“Non-traditional students require different resources, and we do our best to supply these students with the best available options. For example, our academic schedule allows students to often attend class two days a week, which gives them time to have a part-time job as well as maintain their family responsibilities. In addition, OU-C also offers a number of evening and online classes. These are important considerations in meeting the scheduling needs of these students so we can provide them with access to a quality education.”
“We also provide students with the option to start their college careers on the Chillicothe campus and then later relocate to the Athens campus or to another university. By staying a year or two on our campus, students not only save a significant amount of money but they also receive a firm academic foundation. Without the existence of the Chillicothe campus, students in the local area wouldn’t have this option and may not be able to attend college otherwise.”
Unlike many students on the Athens campus who plan to branch out to bigger cities after graduation, Tuck says most OU-C students plan to stay in the local area and contribute to their communities after graduation.
“Because we have several hospitals and two large prisons in our area, programs like nursing and law enforcement technology provide students with degrees that are aligned with their employment needs. We are also currently working to establish partnerships with major businesses in the local area. With employers such as Glatfelter, Adena Health System and Petland there is much potential to provide students with internships or work-study opportunities.”
According to Tuck, the OU-C campus shares many features that are similar to those of the Athens campus, just on a smaller scale.
“We have a Health & Wellness Center where students can pursue fitness activities and a competitive athletics program that allows students to participate in their choice of nine different sports. Our main campus has a traditional college campus feel, and our library, Learning Commons, performing and visual arts programs, and student organizations provide students with a comprehensive college experience.”
Similarities and differences aside, the two campuses remain united by what Tuck sees as a university-wide advantage: the Ohio University brand.
“The Ohio University name is very important for graduates of all the university’s campuses, and it is particularly valuable for our graduates who are entering the workforce or looking to advance in their careers.”
“My personal feeling is that the university’s prominent academic reputation speaks well for our students and gives them a leg up against their competition. The Ohio University name is something that none of our competitors can offer.”
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