26
October
2009
|
19:00 PM
America/New_York

Story Ideas for Media 10/27/09

Research

Ohio State survey: Consumers feel better about their debt, but stress is still high. After hitting record-setting levels of stress this past summer, American consumers seemed to be worrying less in September about the debts they owe, according to a nationwide survey.
The Consumer Debt Stress Index (DSI) fell 10 percent in September, indicating that Americans are feeling slightly better about what they owe on their credit cards, mortgages, home equity loans, car and student loans and other sources of debt.
"Consumers are feeling less anxious than they did, but the high levels of debt stress on consumers are still troubling," said Lucia Dunn, professor of economics at Ohio State University and one of the leaders of the study. CONTACT: Jeff Grabmeier, (614) 292-8457. SEE: http://www.osu.edu/news/newsitem2583

Events

Ohio State students are "College Mentors for Kids" – Oct. 28. Ohio State has joined the growing list of universities with students that serve as college mentors for younger children. Ohio State's chapter of the noted College Mentors for Kids (CMFK) organization swings into action this week by hosting a visit from 40 local elementary school students. While most campus access mentoring models focus on older children, CMFK teaches the basics of college aspiration and planning to enthusiastic youngsters. This week, first through fourth graders from an elementary school in the Southwestern City Schools will visit campus on Wednesday (10/28) for one-on-one activities aimed at inspiring college and career planning. CONTACT: Amy Murray, (614) 292-8385. SEE: http://collegementors.org.ohio-state.edu

Ohio State University Trustees to meet – Oct. 28-29. The Ohio State University Board of Trustees and its committees will meet Wednesday (10/28) and Thursday (10/29) at the William Oxley Thompson Library, 1858 Neil Ave.
The schedule includes meetings on Wednesday (10/28) of the Audit and Compliance and Trusteeship committees from 12:30 to 2 p.m.; the Medical Affairs and Development and Investment committees from 2:15 to 3:45 p.m.; and meetings of the Fiscal Affairs and Academic Affairs and Student Life committees from 4 to 5:30 p.m.
On Thursday (10/29), the board will reconvene at 8:30 a.m. and move into executive session. The formal board meeting begins at 12:30 p.m. CONTACT: Shelly Hoffman, (614) 247-4748.

CBS News reporter, author Byron Pitts to kick-off Diversity Lecture & Cultural Arts Series – Oct. 28. Multiple Emmy award-winner Bryon Pitts will host a discussion of his newly-released book "Step out on Nothing" at 4 p.m. Thursday (10/28) in Drinko Hall, 55 W. 12th Ave. Pitts will share his journey as a young boy, illiterate until age 12, and the obstacles he fought in attaining a life-long goal as a contributing correspondent to the CBS program "60 Minutes." Sponsored by the offices of the President and Provost, the series enters its eighth year of providing the campus and Columbus community with scholars, artists and professionals that exemplify excellence in diversity. CONTACT: Liz Cook, 614-292-7276.

"Vet for Pets" 5K benefits central Ohio pets and veterinary students – Nov. 1. The fourth annual "Vets for Pets" 5K run/walk (with or without dogs) begins at 10 a.m. on Sunday (11/1) at the College of Veterinary Medicine Academic Building, 1900 Coffey Rd. Proceeds from the event will benefit Shelter Outreach Services of Ohio (SOS) and the Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine Classes of 2011 and 2012. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. and parking is free. A silent auction featuring great prizes will also benefit SOS and the veterinary classes. Participants often bring dogs to walk along the race route – and occasionally cats have participated as well. CONTACT: Melissa Weber, (614) 292-3752.


The person listed as the CONTACT will have the most current information about the story. Call on our media relations staff for help with any Ohio State story: Liz Cook,(614) 292-7276; Shelly Hoffman,(614) 247-4748; Jim Lynch,(614) 247-4110; or Amy Murray,(614) 292-8385.