Trustees on Thursday honored each scholar as a Distinguished University Professor. The permanent honorific title is awarded annually to tenure-track professors who have been at Ohio State for at least five years and have demonstrated truly exceptional records in teaching, research, scholarly or creative work, and service. Distinguished University Professors become members of the President’s and Provost’s Advisory Committee and are awarded a $30,000 one-time grant to support their academic work. The university has awarded just 78 faculty since the creation of the honor in 1987.

The recipients are:

• Gail E. Besner, H. William Clatworthy Jr. Professor of Surgery, College of Medicine
• Shan-Lu Liu, professor, College of Veterinary Medicine
• Alan Luo, professor, Donald D. Glower Chair in Engineering, College of Engineering
• Giorgio Rizzoni, professor, Ford Motor Company Chair in ElectroMechanical Systems, College of Engineering
• Brent Sohngen, Distinguished Professor of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences
• Claudia Turro, Dr. Melvin L. Morris Endowed Professorship in Inorganic Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences

“Academic excellence is only possible because of our people,” President Ravi V. Bellamkonda told trustees on Thursday. “World-class research, exceptional scholarship, dedicated service — we have lots of reasons to be incredibly grateful for and proud of our distinguished faculty.”

Trustees also reviewed the tenure of Bellamkonda, praising his progress on goals including academic excellence, integrating AI into undergraduates’ academic experience, and driving transformative research and innovation. Bellamkonda was named the 18th president of Ohio State in March.

“You do a great job articulating a really compelling vision for the kind of university that we can be and ought to be,” Board Chair Jeff M. S. Kaplan said. “The urgency, enthusiasm and action that you bring to this role, we believe, are exactly what we need.” 

The board agreed to a 3% adjustment to Bellamkonda’s base salary as part of the university’s Annual Merit Compensation Process, and an annual performance award for achieving agreed-upon goals of $420,000, or 30% of his base salary.

Trustees approved the president’s fiscal year 2027 goals, focused on inspiring, innovating and empowering people across Ohio and beyond, and building upon the themes of the Education for Citizenship 2035 strategic plan.

The goals are:

• Academic excellence, which includes enhancing Ohio State’s signature undergraduate experience, advancing life-changing research, cultivating dynamic people and leaders, and bolstering strong colleges and programs.
• Healthcare excellence, in which Ohio State will help to reshape and transform healthcare by providing world-class care for every person, pursuing relentless innovation to improve lives, and being the best place to work and learn.
• Athletic excellence, a space in which the university is positioned to define the future of college sports.

The following actions were taken during the full board meeting:

Establishment of academic programs approved
The board approved the establishment of the Bachelor of Science major in biotech science and the Bachelor of Arts major in civics, law and leadership. The major in biotech science addresses a growing workforce need within Ohio’s rapidly expanding biotechnology and life sciences sector, and the civics, law and leadership major offered by the Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture, and Society advances Ohio State's land-grant mission by preparing students to participate thoughtfully and lead effectively in civic life through the study of history, constitutionalism, law and leadership.

Revision of program curricula approved
Trustees approved revisions to the classics major, comparative studies major, natural resource management major and the environmental policy and decision-making major.

Honorary degree approved
The board approved the awarding of the honorary degrees for the following:

• Douglas Laycock, Doctor of Laws, honoris causa
• Dianne McIntyre, Doctor of Arts, honoris causa

Resolutions in Memoriam

• Edward “Ned” J. Behrman, who died on March 7. He was professor emeritus in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences.

• R. Bruce Curry, professor emeritus in the Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

• James R. “Jim” Helt, who died on June 15. He was an associate professor emeritus in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

• Floyd L. Herum, who died on Jan. 12. He was professor emeritus in the Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

• Michael Jon Kindred, professor emeritus in the Moritz College of Law and former associate dean.

• Cheryl Lee Krueger, former member of the Board of Trustees, who died on June 13.

• Robert Frederic Lawson, professor emeritus in the College of Education and Human Ecology, who died on Aug. 9, 2025.

• Sheila J. Marion, associate professor emerita in the Department of Dance in the College of Arts and Sciences, who died on June 22.

• Thomas Edgar Noyes, assistant professor emeritus within the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, who died on April 6.

• John D. Ong, former member of the Board of Trustees, who died on June 4.

• Russell “Russ” M. Pitzer, professor emeritus in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences, who died on May 25.

• Richard P. Swenson, professor emeritus in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences, who died on Feb. 20.

Personnel actions approved 
Trustees approved the following appointments and reappointments:

Appointments

• Karin Allenspach has been appointed professor (The Endowed Chair in Comparative and Translational Oncology and Biomedical Research) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from Sept. 1, 2026, through July 31, 2031.
• Natarajan Balasubramanian has been appointed professor (The Robert and Anne Hoyt Fund) at Fisher College of Business for a term running from Sept. 1, 2026, through Aug. 31, 2031.
• Susie Breitenstein has been appointed professor (Centennial Endowed Professor of Nursing) in the College of Nursing for a term running from Aug. 20, 2026, through Aug. 19, 2031.
• Kristi Cheramie has been appointed professor (The Hubert Schmidt Chair in Landscape Architecture) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Edward Dodson has been appointed professor-clinical (The William H. Saunders M.D. Professorship in Otolaryngology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from August 15, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Kiely Fletcher has been appointed vice provost for strategic enrollment management in the Office of Academic Affairs effective June 15, 2026.
• Frank Jacobus has been appointed professor and director (Walter H. Kidd Designated Professorship KSA) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Osama Khalil has been appointed associate professor (Dr. Charles Saltzer Professorship in Mathematics) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 16, 2027, through Aug. 16, 2032.
• Kami Maddocks has been appointed professor-clinical (Natalie M. Knutsen Professorship) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Sept. 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Antoinette Marsh has been appointed professor (Endowed Chair in Comparative and Translational Parasitic and Infectious Diseases) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from Sept. 1, 2026, through July 31, 2031.
• Dustin Mixon has been appointed associate professor (Russell C. Shaw and Lynn B. Shaw Endowed Professorship in Mathematics) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Nathan Mowery has been appointed professor-clinical (Margaret Bowers Hardymon Professorship in Surgery) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Michael Neblo has been appointed professor (Ann and Darrell Dreher Chair in Political Communication and Policy Thinking) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Kathy Northern has been appointed associate professor (Joanne Wharton Murphy/Class of 1965 and 1973 Professorship in Law) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• Efthimi Parasidis has been appointed professor (The Robert J. Lynn Chair in Law) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• Robin Queen has been appointed professor and chair (Bertha Lamme Professorship) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Jeffrey J. Walline has been appointed dean of the College of Optometry from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Balasubramaniam Shanker has been appointed interim dean of the College of Engineering from Aug. 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.

Reappointments

• Elizabeth Cooke has been reappointed professor-clinical (Frank C. Woodside III Clinical Professorship of Trial Advocacy) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• Monica Cox has been reappointed professor (Distinguished Professor of Engineering) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Laura Dugan has been reappointed professor (Ralph Mershon Designated Professorship of Human Security) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Cesar Cuauhtemoc Garcia Hernandez has been reappointed professor (Gregory H. Williams Chair in Civil Rights and Civil Liberties) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• Andrew Glassman has been reappointed professor and chair (Frank J. Kloenne Chair in Orthopedic Surgery) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028.
• John Horack has been reappointed professor and vice president (Neil A. Armstrong Chair in Aerospace Policy) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Igor Jouline has been reappointed professor (Rod Sharp Professorship in Microbiology) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Ahmet Kahraman has been reappointed professor (Howard D. Winbigler Designated Professorship) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Sanjay Krishna has been reappointed professor (George R. Smith Chair in Engineering) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Dhabaleswar Kumar has been reappointed professor (Distinguished Professor of Engineering) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Tasha Lewis has been reappointed associate professor-clinical (Nina Mae Mattus Professorship) in the College of Education and Human Ecology for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• Jamie Lipp has been reappointed associate professor-clinical (Mary Fried Endowed Clinical Professorship) in the College of Education and Human Ecology for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• Rama Mallampalli has been reappointed professor and chair (S. Robert Davis Chair of Medicine) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Matthew Mayhew has been reappointed professor (William Ray and Marie Adamson Flesher Endowed Professor in Educational Administration) in the College of Education and Human Ecology for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• David McComb has been reappointed professor (Ohio Research Scholar in Materials) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Marta Nowak has been reappointed assistant professor (Christos Yessios Endowed Professorship) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• John Nusstein has been reappointed professor (Dr. William J. Meyers Endowed Chair in Endodontics) in the College of Dentistry for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2030.
• Phillip Popovich has been reappointed professor and chair (Ray W. Poppleton Research Designated Chair) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Dongbin Xiu has been reappointed professor (Ohio Eminent Scholar in Scientific Computation) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Ahmed Yousef has been reappointed professor (Virginia Hutchison Bazler and Frank E. Bazler Chair in Food Science) in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Xiaodong Zhang has been reappointed professor (Robert M. Critchfield Professorship in Engineering) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.

Trustees also approved a market compensation adjustment for Jake Wozniak, treasurer, vice president of financial services and innovation and deputy chief financial officer.

Professional services and construction contracts approved
The board authorized the university to enter into or increase professional services and construction contracts for the following projects:

East Hospital endoscopy expansion and catheter lab
Professional services totaling $3.6 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Hughes Hall renovation
Professional services totaling $5.2 million, to be paid for with university funds, state funds and partner funds.

Wexner Medical Center community facilities
Professional services totaling $20 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Ramseyer Hall renovation
Professional services totaling $3.1 million, to be paid for with university funds and state funds.

Research Center deferred maintenance, phase 1
Professional services totaling $4 million, to be paid for with university funds.

Airport capital improvements
Professional services and construction contracts totaling $1.3 million, to be paid for with university funds and partner funds.

Baker Hall portable air conditioning and electrical upgrades
Professional services and construction contracts totaling $4.7 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Blankenship Hall upgrades
Professional services and construction contracts totaling $1.5 million, to be paid for with university funds and partner funds.

Fawcett Center renovations
Professional services and construction contracts totaling $6.5 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Howlett Hall deferred maintenance
Professional services and construction contracts totaling $11 million, to be paid for with university funds and grant funds.

Knowlton Hall roof replacement
Professional services and construction contracts totaling $5.6 million, to be paid for with university funds.

North Towers renovations
Professional services and construction contracts totaling $145 million, to be paid for with university debt.

Outpatient Care East clinic renovations and relocations
Professional services and construction contracts totaling $14.2 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Tunnel rehabilitation, phase 1
Construction contracts totaling $6.1 million, to be paid for with university debt, university funds, state funds and partner funds.

University Hospital pavilion air handling units review/repair
Construction contracts totaling $37.8 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Fiscal year 2027 capital investment plan approved
Trustees approved the university capital investment plan for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

Joint use agreements approved
The board approved entering into joint use agreements between Ohio State and the following entities following funds appropriated in the state capital bill:

• Edison Welding Institute (EWI)
• Junior Achievement of Central Ohio
• Lifecare Alliance
• Rev1 Ventures

Settlement agreement and amendments to the concession agreement with Ohio State Energy Partners approved
Trustees approved a settlement agreement and amendments to the long-term lease and concession agreement for the Ohio State utility system.

Amendments to the bylaws of the Board of Trustees and Wexner Medical Center board approved
Trustees approved amendments to the bylaws of the Ohio State Board of Trustees and the bylaws of the Wexner Medical Center Board.

Board of Trustees committee appointments approved
Trustees approved the ratification of committee appointments for fiscal year 2027 as follows:

Academic Excellence

• Reginald A. Wilkinson, chair
• Bradley R. Kastan, vice chair
• Elizabeth P. Kessler
• M. Katherine Holcombe
• Elizabeth A. Harsh
• Juan Jose Perez
• Patrick J. Tiberi
• Annabelle B. Feibel
• Phillip Popovich (faculty member)
• Eric Bielefeld (faculty member)
• Jeff M.S. Kaplan (ex officio)

Engagement & External Relations

• Patrick J. Tiberi, chair
• Elizabeth A. Harsh, vice chair
• Elizabeth P. Kessler
• M. Katherine Holcombe
• Pierre Bigby
• Bradley R. Kastan
• Kara J. Trott
• Annabelle B. Feibel
• Jeff M.S. Kaplan (ex officio)

Finance, Audit & Investment

• Gary R. Heminger, chair
• Pierre Bigby, vice chair
• Tomislav B. Mitevski
• Juan Jose Perez
• George A. Skestos
• Kara J. Trott
• Patrick J. Tiberi
• Patrick C. Arp
• Amy Chronis
• Kent M. Stahl
• Jeff M.S. Kaplan (ex officio)

Governance & Institutional Accountability

• Jeff M.S. Kaplan, co-chair
• Elizabeth P. Kessler, co-chair
• Gary R. Heminger
• Reginald A. Wilkinson
• Tomislav B. Mitevsk
• Juan Jose Perez
• Kara J. Trott
• Patrick J. Tiberi

Master Planning & Facilities

• Tomislav B. Mitevski, chair
• Suzanne R. Kiggin, vice chair
• M. Katherine Holcombe
• Elizabeth A. Harsh
• Reginald A. Wilkinson
• Pierre Bigby
• Bradley R. Kastan
• Annabelle B. Feibel
• Robert H. Schottenstein
• Keith Myers
• Jeff M.S. Kaplan (ex officio)

Talent & Compensation

• Juan Jose Perez, chair
• George A. Skestos, vice chair
• Elizabeth P. Kessler
• Gary R. Heminger
• Reginald A. Wilkinson
• Suzanne R. Kiggin
• Patrick C. Arp
• Jeff M.S. Kaplan (ex officio)

Wexner Medical Center

• Robert H. Schottenstein, chair
• Kara J. Trott, vice chair
• Gary R. Heminger
• Suzanne R. Kiggin
• Tomislav B. Mitevski
• George A. Skestos
• Patrick C. Arp
• Leslie H. Wexner, chair emeritus
• Stephen D. Steinour
• Cindy Hilsheimer
• Amy Chronis
• Hiroyuki Fujita
• Jeff M.S. Kaplan (ex officio, voting)
• Ravi V. Bellamkonda (ex officio, voting)
• Trevor Brown (ex officio, voting)
• Michael Papadakis (ex officio, voting)
• John J. Warner (ex officio, voting)

Finance Committee, Wexner Medical Center

• Stephen D. Steinour, chair
• Tomislav B. Mitevski
• Juan Jose Perez
• Pierre Bigby
• George A. Skestos
• Amy Chronis
• John J. Warner
• Michael Papadakis

Quality & Professional Affairs Committee, Wexner Medical Center

• Kara J. Trott, chair
• George A. Skestos, vice chair
• Suzanne R. Kiggin
• Trevor Brown
• Michael Papadakis
• John J. Warner
• Eric Bourekas
• Stacy A. Brethauer
• David E. Cohn
• Scott A. Holliday
• Daniel Like
• Kami J. Maddocks
• Traci Mignery
• Elizabeth Seely
• Corrin Steinhauer
• W. Kimryn Rathmell
• Andrew M. Thomas
• Crystal Tubbs
• Nicole Williams

Foundation Board Representative

• Pierre Bigby

Alumni Board Representative

• Bradley R. Kastan

Fiscal year 2027 Clinical Quality Management, Patient Safety, and Patient Experience Plan approved
Trustees approved the annual review of the Clinical Quality Management, Patient Safety, and Patient Experience Plan for fiscal year 2027 for the university hospitals.

Fiscal year 2027 Quality, Safety and Experience Council Plan approved
Trustees approved the annual review of the Quality, Safety and Experience Council Plan for fiscal year 2027 for the Ohio State Comprehensive Cancer Center — James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute.

Plan for patient care services approved
The board approved the annual review of the plan for patient care services for university hospitals.

Scopes of care approved
Trustees approved the annual review of the scope of patient care services the Ohio State Ambulatory Surgery Center — Outpatient Care New Albany, Dublin Ambulatory Surgery Center, Powell Ambulatory Surgery Center, and Extended Recovery Unit for Outpatient Care Dublin and New Albany clinical departments.

Direct patient care services contracts and patient impact service contracts evaluation approved
The board approved the annual review of the direct patient care service contracts and patient impact service contracts for the university hospitals.

Contracted services evaluation approved
Trustees approved the annual review of the contracted services for the Ohio State Ambulatory Surgery Center — Outpatient Care New Albany and Dublin Ambulatory Surgery Center.

Emergency General Surgery Program verification approved
Trustees approved the submission for verification of the Emergency General Surgery Program for university hospitals.

Ohio State Energy Partners utility system capital improvements plan for fiscal year 2027 approved
The board approved the fiscal year 2027 capital improvements plan for Ohio State Energy Partners.

University Foundation Report approved
The board approved, as of July 31, 2026, the establishment of two endowed chairs as part of the Provost’s Endowed Chair Matching Program: the James Mitchell Endowed Chair, the Barbara and Al Siemer Chair in Functional Medicine; one endowed professorship: the Jim and Christina Grote Professorship in Integrative Health Education; one endowed professorship fund: the Dr. Martha S. Pitzer Professorship Fund in Nursing; one fellowship: the Morell Family Fellowship; one scholarship as part of the Scarlet and Gray Advantage Endowed Matching Gift Program; 23 additional named endowed funds; and the revision of 26 named endowed funds.

Naming of spaces
Trustees approved the following namings:

• The Oklo Nuclear Reactor Laboratory in the College of Engineering
• The Christine Coultrip Dwarf Conifer Collection in Chadwick Arboretum and Learning Gardens
• The CVS Health Innovation Hub in the Riffe Building
• The east-west portion of Carmack Road in the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory to Hess Road.
• The following internal spaces in the Engineering Research and Education Laboratories:
  • Ayanna Howard Innovation Space (room 2241)
  • Google Foundations Lab (room 1250)
  • Air Transport Services Group Charitable Foundation Office (room 2203)

While the card is easy to use, with just a tap, it requires users to always carry it, and it can be lost or stolen.

Now, Buckeyes on the Columbus campus can instead use a mobile BuckID that’s part of what they always have on them — a compatible smartphone or smartwatch.

“A BuckID provides access to all kinds of important things at Ohio State, and adding a mobile option makes it even easier for students, faculty and staff to use,” said Josh Bodnar, director of BuckID. “People who have already switched to mobile really enjoy how easy it is to use.” 

Mobile BuckID is free and available for the Apple Wallet, Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet. Users can simply tap their iPhone, Apple Watch, eligible Android phone or Samsung watch at readers, just like a physical card. If they have an iPhone or Samsung phone, it will still work for several hours after the battery dies.

Switching to the mobile BuckID is optional, and when a user begins using the mobile BuckID it will deactivate their existing BuckID card. If someone does not have a compatible device, or prefers to have a physical card instead, they will still be able to keep their current physical BuckID.

Students, faculty and staff who are eligible to switch to mobile BuckID received an email from the BuckID office on Aug. 25. Some people, including in the Wexner Medical Center and some health science colleges, are not currently eligible to switch. 

Mobile BuckID is initially open to the Columbus campus, with plans for a rollout in regional campuses in 2027. Students that are in online programs and remote-work employees can access a basic digital BuckID in the Ohio State App without needing to add the full mobile BuckID to their mobile wallet. All Columbus campus BuckID readers include mobile-credential capabilities in addition to the tap-enabled cards; if anyone on the Columbus campus still has a swipe-only BuckID, they will not be able to enter buildings or print until they switch to mobile or the tap-enabled cards.

Ohio State is one of the first colleges or universities in North America to integrate mobile functioning for student IDs into an existing app — here, the Ohio State app — instead of requiring an additional app for Apple users to download. To find out more about the mobile BuckID and how to easily switch to mobile, please see the BuckID website and answers to frequently asked questions.

Areas of focus include:

• Safety resources
• Getting around campus
• Well-being resources
• Freedom of expression and civic engagement
• AI Fluency

Safety resources

The safety of all Buckeyes is Ohio State’s top priority. The Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD) has an authorized strength of 78 full-time officers supported by hundreds of non-sworn security personnel, a campus 9-1-1 call center and security technology. OSUPD works closely with the Columbus Division of Police (CPD) to offer increased patrols in the off-campus University District, including through the joint patrol program that pairs four OSUPD officers with officers from CPD to work in the nearby neighborhood where many students live.

While campus is a safe place, crimes do still occur. Police recommend the following safety tips:

• Lock doors and windows and do not allow unknown people into your home or residence hall.
• Utilize public transportation or walk in groups to avoid walking alone, especially at night.
• Report suspicious activity to OSUPD (614-292-2121) or local city police. Always dial 9-1-1 in emergencies.

The Office of Student Life provides students with complimentary safety devices for their off-campus homes, including window and door alarms. These can be picked up at the Willie J. Young Sr. Off-Campus and Commuter Student Engagement office at the Ohio Union from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

To learn about safety resources and more, visit the university’s public safety website.

Getting around campus

Lyft Ride Smart at Ohio State offers students discounted late-night rides in a designated area from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. CABS On-Demand is a free service offered to all Buckeyes, providing daytime and overnight service to select buildings. As autumn semester gets underway, campus will be busier than usual. Expect heavier traffic, plan for extra travel time, avoid distractions and watch out for your fellow Buckeyes. Review transportation updates, including CABS and CABS On-Demand changes, the COTA digital pass in the Ohio State app and the university traffic impact map.

Well-being resources

A variety of services are available to help support the well-being of our community. Students can utilize the university’s online Health and Wellness Resource Guide to quickly search for the most appropriate resource. Health and wellness related services are listed alphabetically and can be searched by feature using the specific criteria within the 10 Dimensions of Wellness.

• The Office of Student Life’s Counseling and Consultation Service (CCS) provides individual and group mental health services, workshops and outreach programming to currently enrolled undergraduate, graduate and professional students, and others covered by the Student Health Insurance Plan. CCS on-demand services offer ways for students to get help whenever it’s needed.
• Student Life Disability Services consults with students on a one-to-one basis to: review academic accommodations based on concerns including mental health; discuss concerns with classes or instructors; and refer students to additional campus and community resources.
• The Monda Student Resource Center helps students’ holistic, essential needs through resources and support from campus and community partners.
• Student Health Services offers on-campus health care options to the student population while Recreational Sports promotes living an active life of balance, physical activity and well-being.
• The Ohio State: Wellness app supports students’ mental health and well-being on campus with resources, connections to support, information about setting goals and building healthy habits.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to utilize resources through the Ohio State Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP member portal connects employees with online tools, well-being resources and work-life services that are available to eligible Ohio State employees, their dependents, household members, parents and parents-in-law.

Freedom of expression and civic engagement

The First Amendment and Ohio law expressly protect the rights of students, faculty, staff and visitors at the university to lawfully engage in speech and expressive activities. The Freedom of Expression website is an online hub for support resources, policies and other information to help everyone participate in public discourse and exercise their rights. Ohio State's University Space Standards provide comprehensive information about using spaces on our campus, including the space reservation process and associated rules.

Ohio State expects members of our community to contribute to an environment where trust and respectful dialogue are the expectation — not the exception. To advance this, the university launched an initiative to help members of our community listen and discuss different perspectives productively, build trust with one another, learn how to clearly articulate their points of view and successfully navigate complex conversations. Listen. Learn. Discuss. helps students, faculty and staff draw connections and form skills to engage in productive and respectful dialogue. Visit the Listen. Learn. Discuss. website to find courses, workshops and events that support the practice of civil discourse.

The university remains committed to its motto of “Education for Citizenship” by supporting civic engagement.

• OSU Votes is a nonpartisan, student-led initiative in the Office of Student Life that works to register, educate and encourage other students to vote. OSU Votes can provide resources and facts on the voting process and voter registration.
• Ohio State is implementing a university-wide Asynchronous Learning and Civic Engagement Day on Tuesday, Nov. 3, following a resolution passed by University Senate in autumn 2025.

AI Fluency

In autumn 2025, Ohio State unveiled the groundbreaking AI Fluency initiative to integrate artificial intelligence into the Ohio State educational experience and support an educational environment that maximizes learning, creativity and impact. In the second year of this initiative, the university is expanding its offering of programs, courses and resources for students, staff and faculty.

• Colleges across the university have developed academic roadmapsshowing how undergraduates will build and use AI skills within their majors, from the College of Arts and Sciences helping to shape the future of AI to Fisher College of Business forging connections and collaborationwithin its research community.
• The Michael V. Drake Institute for Teaching and Learning continues to expand its AI Fluency support resources for instructors at all levels and launched a fellows program for this fall.

Visit the Office of Academic Affairs for a list of Frequently Asked Questions and subscribe to the AI Fluency at Ohio State newsletter to stay up to date on AI Fluency news and developments. For staff, the Office of Technology and Digital Innovation offers training, educational courses and more, and all available resources are offered on the “Learn to use AI” webpage. Virtual and in-person training can be found on the AI Resources and Events page.

Krishna is widely recognized for his work in infrared detector technology, successfully advancing academic discoveries into defense and commercial applications. His leadership will play a critical role in elevating The Ohio State University’s innovation ecosystem and advancing the university’s commitment to bringing research to market.

“I’m deeply honored to take on this role at such an important moment for Ohio State,” Krishna said. “The university has an incredible foundation of innovation, and I’m passionate about working alongside our faculty, staff and partners to translate discoveries into real-world impact.”

Ohio State President Ravi V. Bellamkonda has identified innovation and commercialization as a strategic priority for the university, with a particular focus on increasing the impact of Ohio State research. In alignment with this vision, the university is taking meaningful steps to strengthen how it supports faculty innovators and moves discoveries from labs, studios and offices into practical use.

Over the past year, university leaders partnered with internal teams, including a group of faculty innovators from across Ohio State and the Wexner Medical Center, as well as external collaborators and peer institutions, to take a fresh and comprehensive look at the university’s innovation approach.

In response, Ohio State is reorganizing its innovation and commercialization efforts to better serve faculty and researchers throughout the entire innovation lifecycle, not just at the point of intellectual property protection.

As part of the restructuring, the university will unify its licensing teams, currently in two offices – innovation and commercialization and health sciences innovation – into a “one front door” model. This approach will improve coordination, streamline communication and reduce duplication, while maintaining the deep domain expertise needed to support diverse research areas.

The reorganization will also elevate translation and venture development as core capabilities for the combined group. Recognizing that market readiness requires more than patenting, the university will expand support for translational funding, startup formation and early-stage company development. These enhancements will help bridge the gap between discovery and real-world application.

Additionally, Ohio State is positioning itself to take a more active role in supporting promising innovations through strategic funding approaches. The university aims to guide innovations through early stages of development, ensuring they are not stalled due to risk while maintaining alignment with academic values and public impact.

Under Krishna’s leadership, Ohio State will continue to build a robust, forward-looking innovation ecosystem that empowers researchers, accelerates discovery and delivers meaningful benefits to society.

“I’m incredibly enthusiastic about this next chapter for innovation at Ohio State,” said John M. Horack, vice president for research. “This approach reflects both the strength of our existing team and our commitment to evolving how we support our researchers. Sanjay brings a proven track record as an innovator and leader, and I’m confident that, together with our outstanding team, he will help accelerate the impact of our research and position Ohio State at the forefront of innovation.”

The rates include continuing the Ohio State Tuition Guarantee for in-state students, a program that provides cost certainty for tuition, housing and dining for four years, and highlights the university’s focus on affordability. 

The change in tuition and fees is for incoming students only, as most current students are covered by the tuition guarantee and will not see an increase. The new rate is set at $14,050 for Ohio residents starting in autumn 2026 – an increase of $409, or only 3%, from 2025. Combined with the tuition guarantee, which locks in those costs for four years, the effective annual tuition increase for in-state students is 0.7% – far below the annual inflation rate.

Ohio State is the second-most affordable among Ohio’s six selective public universities while U.S. News & World Report ranks the university first in Ohio and 15th among all public universities in America.

The university continues to expand resources and programs supporting access and affordability. Fall semester represents the inaugural academic year for three new financial aid programs that will open doors for more Ohio students to attend Ohio State:

• The Buckeye Bridge program, a partnership with Columbus State Community College, that covers tuition and fees for qualifying Ohio residents transferring to Ohio State from Columbus State.
• The President’s Scholars Program, which covers the full cost of attendance for Ohio students who score a perfect 36 on the ACT or a perfect 1600 on the SAT, along with up to $5,000 in enrichment grant funding.
• The Regional Campus Commitment, where eligible new first-year students who enroll at one of the university’s campuses in Lima, Mansfield, Marion or Newark, or at Ohio State ATI in Wooster, can attend Ohio State without having to pay tuition or mandatory fees. 

The board ratified a resolution related to Richard Strauss. The university and survivors involved in the pending litigation have reached settlements in principle and released the following joint statement: 

Ohio State and 279 of the 280 individual remaining Richard Strauss survivors involved in the pending litigation have reached settlements in principle in a total amount of $100 million. The university’s Board of Trustees has now publicly ratified these agreements in principle, and all parties thank the mediators for their assistance. The mediation and its confidentiality are continuing as the parties work to finalize the details of the settlements, and additional information will be shared as appropriate.

Trustees also authorized Ohio State leaders to continue negotiations on a partnership with the City of Columbus and Downtown Columbus Inc. that would create a downtown Columbus location for university classes and programming. 

This new academic facility would place Ohio State students at the heart of Columbus’ governmental, business, legal, civic and cultural life, with immediate access to experiential learning, interning and networking. Ohio State’s world-class scholars, clinicians and researchers will be steps away from city decision makers, state officials and industry leaders, fostering stronger connections, enhancing learning experiences, and directly connecting Ohio State expertise to the people of Ohio.

Trustees also announced the election of Jeff Kaplan as chairman of the board, replacing John Zeiger, whose nine-year term on the board is ending. Zeiger praised Ohio State’s growth during his tenure.

“Ohio State is already a great national university, but we’re in a moment of momentum which is second to none in my nine years,” Zeiger said at Wednesday’s full board meeting.

“It’s an incredible honor and privilege to help lead the institution in this role,” Kaplan said, echoing Zeiger’s observations on the university’s momentum and his excitement to work with President Ravi V. Bellamkonda.

“I’d like Ohio State to be, and I believe we can be, the finest public university in the nation,” Bellamkonda said later in the meeting.

The board also approved the awarding of the Joseph Sullivant Medal to Lars Bildsten, director of the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics and the Frederick W. Gluck Professor of Theoretical Physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Bildsten, a 1985 Ohio State graduate, is a theoretical astrophysicist.

The medal is awarded once every five years as a memorial to the services of Joseph Sullivant. He was a member of the first Board of Trustees and contributed significantly in determining the character and future of Ohio State.

The following actions were taken during the full board meeting:

Personnel actions approved 
Trustees approved the following appointments and reappointments:

Appointments

• Trevor Brown as interim executive vice president and provost in the Office of the President for a term starting March 23, 2026.
• Paula Desplats as professor (The Clayton C. Wagner Parkinson’s Disease Professorship) in the College of Medicine for a term running from May 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Peggy Hall as associate professor (The Paul L. Wright Chair in Agricultural Law) in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences for a term running from March 5, 2026, through Feb. 28, 2031.
• Thomas Jeffrey Hund as professor (The John H. and Mildred C. Lumley Chair in Medicine) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Scott Langenecker as professor (The Tom and Debra Feeney Family Endowed Chair in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health) in the College of Medicine for a term running from June 3, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Jianrong Li as professor (Endowed Chair in Comparative and Translational Immunology, Oncology, and Vaccinology Research) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from May 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Stephanie Moulton as acting dean in the John Glenn College of Public Affairs for a term running from May 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, or until a permanent dean is named.
• Efthimi Parasidis as professor (The Kara J. Trott Endowed Professorship in Law) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Nov. 15, 2025, through November 14, 2030.
• Kristin Stanford as professor (William D. and Jacquelyn L. Wells Chair at the Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Christine Thomas as professor (The Phyllis and Richard Leet Endowed Chair in Chemistry) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2031.

Reappointments

• Sara Butler as professor (The King George III Professorship in British History) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• Lei Cao as professor (The William C. and Joan E. Davis Cancer Research Professorship) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Ricardo Carrau as professor (The Lynne Shepard Jones Endowed Professorship in Head and Neck Oncology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• David Cohn as professor (The Stuart M. Sloan - Larry J. Copeland MD Chair in Gynecologic Oncology Initiated by a Grateful Patient) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Curtis Daniels as professor-clinical (Dottie Dohan Shepard Professorship in Cardiovascular Medicine) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Marcos J.G. de Lima as professor (The William Greenville Pace III Endowed Chair in Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Richard Gumina as professor (The James W. Overstreet Chair in Cardiology Fund) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Yuchi Han as professor (Chair of Excellence in Cardiovascular Medicine) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Jeffrey Horowitz as professor (Endowed Professorship in Pulmonary Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• John Hummel as professor-clinical (Corrine Frick Chair in Cardiac Electrophysiology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Maria Ignatieva as professor (The Martha W. Farmer Endowed Professorship in Theatre) at Ohio State Lima for a term running from June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027.
• Daniel Jonas as professor (Endowed Professorship in Health Services Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Christopher Kaeding as professor-clinical (Judson D. Wilson Professorship in Orthopedic Surgery) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Anthony King as associate professor (The Anne K. “Nancy” Jeffrey Endowed Professorship for Mental Health Equity and Resilience) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Cathann Kress as vice president for agricultural administration and dean in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• E. Douglas Lewandowski as professor (The Jack M. George Chair) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Bradley Needleman as professor-clinical (Edwin H. and E. Christopher Ellison Professorship) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• David O’Malley as professor-clinical (The John G. Boutselis, M.D. Chair in Gynecology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Georgios Papachristou as professor (Dr. Floyd M. Beman Chair in Gastroenterology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Jeffrey Parvin as professor (The Louis Levy Professorship for Cancer) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Benjamin Kuttikatt Poulose as professor (The Robert M. Zollinger Chair of Surgery Funded By The LeCrone-Baxter Memorial Fund) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Rebecca Reczek as professor (The Berry Chair of New Technologies in Marketing) in the Fisher College of Business for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• Brad Rovin as professor (The Dr. Lee A. Hebert Endowed Professorship in Nephrology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.
• Abhay Satoskar as professor (Research Endowed Chair in Pathology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Sakima Smith as associate professor (Bob Frick Research Chair in Heart Failure and Arrhythmia) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Alexander Sparreboom as professor (The Lucius A. Wing Chair of Cancer Research and Therapy) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Theodore Wagener as professor (Leonard J. Immke, Jr. and Charlotte L. Immke Chair in Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Henry Wang as professor (The Ohio State University Emergency Medicine Endowed Research Chair) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Bruce Weinberg as professor (Eric Byron Fix-Monda Endowed Chair) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2026, through Aug. 14, 2031.
• Hua Zhu as professor (Karl P. Klassen Chair of Thoracic Surgery) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.

Reestablishment of the Department of Aviation approved
Trustees approved the reestablishment of the Department of Aviation in the College of Engineering because of a resurgence in enrollment and research expenditures.

Establishment of academic programs approved
Trustees approved the establishment of the following academic programs:

• The Institute on Aging in the Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge
• A master of science in medical physics degree program in the College of Medicine
• A bachelor of science in computer science and business degree program in the College of Engineering and the Fisher College of Business
• The following academic programs:
  • The integrated arts and sciences major
  • The assistive technology and accessibility major in the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
  • The supply chain management specialization in the Fisher College of Business

Professional services and construction contracts approved
The board authorized the university to enter into or increase professional services and construction contracts for the following projects:

East Hospital catheter lab
Professional services totaling $600,000, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Fisher College of Business facility improvements
Professional services totaling $9 million, to be paid for with university funds.

Blankenship Hall upgrades
Professional services and construction totaling $14.9 million, to be paid for with university funds.

Midwest campus chilled water connections
Professional services and construction totaling $10.6 million, to be paid for with university and partner funds.

Ohio Stadium/athletics upgrades
Professional services and construction totaling $22.8 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds and university debt.

Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute fire and HVAC system renewal
Construction services totaling $5.5 million, to be paid for with university funds.

Doan Hall PET/CT replacement
Construction services totaling $6.4 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Property agreements approved
The board approved the following property leases, agreements and acquisitions:

• The acquisition of property at 10190 Blacklick-Eastern Road NW in Fairfield County, Ohio, at a purchase price of $8.75 million.
• The acquisition of property at 104-110 W. 10th Ave. and 1593-1599 Hunter Ave. in Franklin County, Ohio, at a purchase price of $2.325 million.
• The acquisition of property adjacent to the Outpatient Care Dublin Facility in Franklin County, Ohio, at a purchase price of $2.934 million. The university is also entering into an economic development agreement related to the property with the City of Dublin.
• The sale of property at 2072 Seacrest Road in Wayne County, Ohio, at a sale price of $115,000.
• The extension of a lease of the apartment building at 262-264 W. Lane Ave. in Franklin County, Ohio, and the bulk leasing of apartments at 1494 N. High St. in the same county.

Revising of program curricula approved
Trustees approved revisions to the Master of Social Work curriculum, the Near Eastern and South Asian Languages and Cultures undergraduate major, and the French and Italian undergraduate major.

Courses and course revisions approved
The board approved new courses and modifications to existing courses in various parts of the university.

Awarding of degrees and certificates approved
The board approved the conferral of degrees and certificates on Aug. 9, 2026, to those people who have completed the requirements for their respective degrees and certificates and are recommended by the colleges and schools.

Operating budget for fiscal year 2027 approved
Trustees approved the university’s operating budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

Interim capital investment plan for fiscal year 2027 approved
Trustees authorized and accepted the interim capital investment plan for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

Resolutions in Memoriam

• Edwin Haering, who died on Jan. 17, 2026, at age 93. He was professor emeritus in the William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.

•  Richard J. Hopkins, who died on Dec. 24, 2025, at age 86. He was professor emeritus in the Department of History.

• Sally Ann Miller, who died on April 1, 2026, at age 71. She was distinguished professor emerita in the Department of Plant Pathology.

Digital textbook fees approved
Trustees approved digital textbook pass-through fees at all campuses for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Authorization for designated officials to buy, sell, assign and transfer securities approved
Trustees approved authorization for designated officials to buy, sell, assign and transfer securities, to deposit or withdraw funds from bank and investment accounts held in the name of Ohio State, to designate depositories, and to execute treasury and insurance related agreements.

Appointments and reappointments to the Self-Insurance Board approved
Trustees approved the appointment and reappointment of the following members to the Self-Insurance Board for terms effective July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2028:

Reappointment
Michael Leach
Demetries Neely

Appointment
Mark Russell

University Foundation Report approved
The board approved, as of April 30, 2026, the establishment of: four endowed chairs as part of the Provost’s Endowed Chair Matching Program: the James and Patricia Dietz Endowed Chair in Chemical Engineering, the Maryann Z. and Larry Kennedy Endowed Chair in Drug Discovery, the Bernard and LaJune Cohen Endowed Chair in Neurodegenerative Disease Research, and The Tom and Debra Feeney Family Endowed Chair in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health; two endowed chairs: the Buckeye Cruise for Cancer Chair and the Thomas F. Mauger and L. Carol Laxson Chair for Ophthalmology Research; two endowed professorships: the Natalie M. Knutsen Professorship and The Williamson Family Professorship; eight scholarships as part of the Scarlet and Gray Advantage Endowed Matching Gift Program; 28 additional named endowed funds; and the revision of 20 named endowed funds.

Naming of spaces
Trustees approved the following namings:

• The Timashev Technology Tower in the Innovation District
• The Dr. Charles W. Pavey II Newborn Nursery in the University Hospital
• The David M. Galton Dairy Display Hall at the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory

Internal spaces in Campbell Hall as follows:

• Cameron Mitchell Restaurants Plaza
• Kister Family Commons
• Kat DePizzo Innovation Lab
• The Geraldine Schottenstein Lobby
• The Geraldine Schottenstein Gallery

Internal spaces in Engineering Research and Education Laboratories as follows:

• Mark G. Tabler Makerspace (rm. 1320)
• Vertiv Makerspace (rm. 1260)
• Vertiv Design Foundations Lab (rm. 2230)
• Vertiv Core Foundations Lab (rm. 2240)
• Baysore Family Collaboration Space (rm. 4235)
• Baysore Family Seminar Room (rm. 4230)
• Baysore Family Lab (rm. 4240)
• Baysore Family Conference Room (rm. 4243)
• Baysore Family Collaboration Space (rm. 4227)
• Baysore Family Huddle Room (rm. 4229)
• Paul Bigley ’61 Inspire and Impact Huddle Room (rm. 3249)

Internal spaces in the Multispecies Animal Learning Complex as follows:

• Mahle Family Classroom (rm. 115)
• Clifford and Dale Baughman Outreach & Engagement Room (rm. 101)
• Patricia Kunz Brundige Classroom (rm. 119)
• Thomas E. Nygren Lab (rm. 121)
• Ohio Poultry Association Multipurpose Space (rm. D119)
• Steven C. Scherff Memorial Staff Office (rm. 123)

Ohio State Newark also changed the name of a portion of the existing University Drive to Partnership Way.

2026-2028 Completion Plan approved
The board approved updated completion goals for 2026-2028 that will focus on further improving retention and graduation rates for all undergraduate students through greater engagement of academic colleges in completion planning, enhanced coordination of student support and career readiness efforts, and continued alignment of academic pathways with Ohio’s workforce development priorities.

Amendments to the Rules of the University Faculty approved
Trustees approved amendments to the Rules of the University Faculty as recommended by the University Senate.

Fiscal year 2027 internal audit plan approved
Trustees approved the fiscal year 2027 internal audit plan. The department provides independent and advisory assurance and consulting services designed to add value and improve the operations of Ohio State.

Expression of appreciation approved
Trustees approved an expression of appreciation for Kendall C. Buchan, a graduate student trustee whose term began in 2024.

The university’s expenditures grew 6% year over year, extending record-breaking annual increases and spotlighting the research enterprise powering discoveries that save lives and strengthen communities. President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. highlighted this and other achievements on Thursday at the full Board of Trustees meeting.

More than $797 million in research funding came from the university’s federal partners, a 3% increase from the previous year.

The university’s industry-sponsored research grew 10% to $174.8 million. Partnerships between Ohio State and business leaders like Honda help develop breakthroughs in battery technology.

“We’re also the nation’s No. 1 producer of Fulbright Scholars for the second straight year – which tells me we’re successfully preparing our students to live and work in a global economy,” Carter said.

Ohio State continues to place among the nation’s top-tier research universities. The new National Science Foundation Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) survey rankings for fiscal year 2024 placed Ohio State 12th nationally among all universities for total research expenditures – above esteemed research programs at Harvard, Duke and Yale.

The Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge, with support from the university’s colleges, tracks annual research and development funding. The combined total of federal, state, industry and institutional support measures the resources available for innovative scientific research and creative expression.

The following actions were taken during the full board meeting:

Distinguished Service Awards approved
Trustees approved the awarding of Distinguished Serve Awards to Matthew Desch, Johanna Sue DeStefano, Tahlman Krumm Jr. and Edgar Lampert.

Interdisciplinary master of science in quantum information science and engineering established
Trustees approved the creation of a master of science in quantum information science and engineering degree program in the Center for Quantum Information Science and Engineering. The board also approved the creation of an interdisciplinary doctor of philosophy in quantum information science and engineering.

Master of energy sustainability established
The board approved the establishment of a master of energy sustainability, facilitated through the Sustainability Institute.

Honorary degree awarded
Trustees approved the awarding of a doctor of public service degree to E. Roe Stamps IV, the founder of the Stamps Scholars Program.

Acquisition of real property approved
The board approved the acquisition of 6515 Pullman Drive in Lewis Center, Ohio, at a purchase price of $7.5 million, to support the Wexner Medical Center’s long-term strategic plans.

Professional services and construction contracts approved
The board authorized the university to enter into or increase professional services and construction contracts for the following projects:

Brain and Spine Hospital renovation
Professional services totaling $2 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

15^th and High Arts Plaza
Professional services totaling $2.3 million, to be paid for with university funds.

Martha Morehouse pavilion concourse renovation
Professional and construction services totaling $5.8 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds and university funds.

Stefanie Spielman Comprehensive Breast Center linear accelerator replacement
Professional and construction services totaling $4.9 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

North Towers renovations
Construction services totaling $15 million, to be paid for with university debt.

Outpatient Care East clinic renovations and relocations
Construction services totaling $3.9 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Doan Hall sprinkler installation
Construction services totaling $8.8 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Resolutions in Memoriam

• John Dewitt Jacob, who died on Jan. 20, 2026, at age 87. He was an alumnus, member and chair of the university’s Board of Trustees.

• John Joseph Kennedy, who died on Aug. 9, 2025, at age 85. He was professor emeritus of educational policy and leadership.

• Stephen F. Loebs, who died on Nov. 10, 2025, at age 87. He was former associate dean and professor emeritus in the Division of Health Services Management and Policy in the College of Public Health.

• George Arthur Skestos, who died on Jan. 9, 2026, at age 97. He was a civic leader, philanthropist and former member of the Board of Trustees and Wexner Medical Center Board.

Resolution specifying conditions for exemptions to the civic literacy course requirements in Ohio Senate Bill 1, the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act
Trustees approved conditions for exemptions to the civic literacy course requirements in Ohio Senate Bill 1.

Resolution establishing a process to review and approve new academic programs, degree programs, curricula/courses, general education requirements, colleges, departments, schools, centers and institutes
The board approved the process as explained in Ohio House Bill 96.

Personnel actions approved
Trustees approved the following faculty appointments and reappointments:

Appointments

• Robert Baker as professor (Andrei Baronov and Ratmir Timashev Professorship in Chemical Physics) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2029.
• John Bozinovski as professor-clinical (The Gerard S. Kakos, MD and Thomas E. Williams, Jr., MD, PhD, Professorship) in the College of Medicine for a term running from March 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Jessica Merlin as professor (The Julius F. Stone Chair in Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Jan. 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Amy Moore as interim dean in the College of Medicine for a term starting Jan. 20, 2026.
• Daniel Prevedello as professor (Dr. John M. McGregor Department of Neurosurgery Professorship) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Jan. 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• W. Kimryn Rathmell as professor and chief executive officer (Jeri B. Block and Robert H. Schottenstein Distinguished Chair in Cancer) in the College of Medicine for a term running from May 27, 2025, through May 26, 2030.
• Curtis Roth as associate professor (Robert S. Livesey Professor in Architecture) in the College of Engineering for a term running from Jan. 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.
• Triparna Sen as professor (The Max Morehouse Chair in Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Jan. 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Stephanus Viljoen as associate professor-clinical (The William E. Hunt, M.D. and Charlotte M. Curtis Chair in Neuroscience) in the College of Medicine for a term running from March 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
• Lin Zhu as assistant professor (Elizabeth McKeever Ross Professorship Fund) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Nov. 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028. (This is a correction of dates from the last meeting.)

Reappointments

• Eric Green as professor (Excellence in Veterinary Care Diagnostic Imaging Chair) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from March 5, 2026, through June 30, 2027.
• Dana Renga as professor (Divisional Dean for Arts and Humanities) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031.
• Lydia Walker as assistant professor (Seth Andre Myers Chair in Global Military History) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Dec. 4, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2027.

Trustees also approved the reappointments and compensation adjustments of Ayanna Howard as dean and Monte Ahuja Endowed Dean’s Chair in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031, and Carroll Ann Trotman as dean of the College of Dentistry for a term running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2031. The board adjusted the compensation for President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. and Executive Vice President and Provost Ravi Bellamkonda.

Naming of spaces
Trustees approved the following namings:

• The Baughman Family Tower in Ohio Stadium
• The Kokosing Construction Management Program in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences
• The education center in University Hospital as the Thomas M. and Debra F. Feeney Education Center
• The Vrable Center for Pharmacy Excellence in the Riffe Building
• The Dr. Gerald M. Gregorek Aerospace Learning Laboratory in Bolz Hall

Internal spaces in the Riffe Building as follows:

• Dr. Milap C. Nahata Welcome Atrium Made Possible by Ric Mora BS Pharm ’63
• Dr. Jack L. Beal Room Made Possible by Ric Mora BS Pharm ’63 (rm. R201)
• Ric Mora BS Pharm ’63 Kitchenette (rm. R103)
• The Sagraves Buckeye Huddle by Dr. Rosalie Sagraves PharmD, BS Pharm ’69 (rm. R208)
• Meijer Pharmacy Classroom (rms. R112 & R118)
• Ned Milenkovich Family Group Study Room (rm. R209)
• Dr. Sheila M. Thomas-Jackson BSPharm ’92 PharmD ’00 Group Study Room (rm. R205)
• Nancy Perilla Peoples and Max J. Peoples Sr. & Belinda D. Peoples, MS, OSU, 83 & William A. Peoples, BS, OSU 83 Collaboration Room (rm. R106B)
• Mary Schickling Peoples and Wayne W. Peoples & Violet Grace Hurd Berdine (Pharmacist) and Anthony A. Berdine Collaboration Room (rm. R106A)
• Julie Johnson, PharmD Deanna Kroetz, PhD Amy Wells Valley, PharmD, BS Pharm ’85, Group Study Room (rm. R207)
• The Lisa and John Warner, MD Welcome Desk and Lisa and John Warner, MD Family Lounge in University Hospital

Internal spaces in Engineering Research and Education Laboratories as follows:

• The Baysore Family Engineering Suite (containing rms. 4200, 4200A, 4200B and 4220)
• The George and Gretchen Smith Foundations Lab (rm. 1230)
• Doug “Ben” Herr and Jane Maliszewski Collaboration Space (rm. 4319)
• The Victor Yin Lab (rm. 1210)
• Saeid and Shelley Rahimian Processing Studio (rm. 1320B)
• John and Libby Toussant Wet Lab (rm. 1320C)
• KG and Nivedita Ganapathi Conference Room (rm. 3243)
• The Schavey Family Office (rm. 5229)
• The Clinical Research and Innovation Facility at 1960 Kenny Road
• The Institute of Brain, Behavior and Immunology at 460 Medical Center Drive

Degrees and certificates
The board approved the conferral of degrees and certificates on May 10, 2026, to those people who have completed the requirements for their respective degrees and certificates and are recommended by the colleges and schools.

Bylaws to rename committee approved
Trustees approved a resolution amending the Bylaws of the Board of Trustees to rename the Academic Affairs and Student Life Committee as the Academic Affairs, Research and Student Life Committee and to adopt a charter for the committee.

Amendments to the Rules of the University Faculty approved
Trustees approved amendments to the Rules of the University Faculty as recommended by the University Senate.

Obstetrical Services Standards for fiscal year 2026 approved
Trustees approved the annual review of the Obstetrical Services Standards for fiscal year 2026 for the hospitals at the Wexner Medical Center, including: Ohio State University Hospital, Ohio State Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital, Ohio State Harding Hospital and East Hospital.

University Foundation Report approved
The board approved, as of Jan. 31, 2026, the establishment of: five endowed chairs as part of the Provost’s Endowed Chair Matching Program: The Endowed Chair in Comparative and Translational Oncology and Biomedical Research, The Endowed Chair in Comparative and Translational Parasitic and Infectious Diseases, the Endowed Chair in Comparative and Translational Immunology, Oncology, and Vaccinology Research, the Excellence in Veterinary Care Diagnostic Imaging Chair in the College of Veterinary Medicine, and the Kokosing Construction Management Endowed Chair; one endowed chair: The Paul L. Wright Chair in Agricultural Law; eight endowed chair funds as part of the Provost’s Endowed Chair Matching Program: the James and Patricia Dietz Endowed Chair Fund in Chemical Engineering, the Bernard and LaJune Cohen Endowed Chair Fund in Neurodegenerative Disease Research, the Libby and Rick Germain Chair Fund in Cancer Research, The Tom and Debra Feeney Family Endowed Chair Fund in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The John and Alix Ankele Endowed Chair Fund in Human Ethics, the Franklin Foundation Endowed Chair Fund, The Susan and Grant Douglass and Family Endowed Chair Fund in Pain Management, and the Buckeye Cruise for Cancer Chair Fund in Cancer Research; two endowed professorships: the Bertha Lamme Professorship and the Maryann Z. and Larry Kennedy Endowed Professorship in Drug Discovery; seven scholarships as part of the Scarlet and Gray Advantage Endowed Matching Gift Program; two scholarships as part of the Joseph A. Alutto Global Leadership Initiative; 47 additional named endowed funds; the revision of 14 named endowed funds; and the closure of one named endowed fund.

Ohio State and its 36 varsity teams are experiencing the best-ever combination of academic and athletic success, Ross Bjork, the Wolfe Foundation-Eugene Smith Endowed Athletics Director, told trustees on Thursday in the Athletics committee meeting.

The NCAA recently released a new report on graduation success rates, which tracks the graduation rate of students receiving sport-based financial aid over a six-year period. Twenty-three teams had a rate of 90% or better, while 15 Buckeye teams had a perfect score.

“We’re just really proud of the academic profile,” Bjork said.

President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. told the full board meeting later in the day that this kind of success speaks to the culture that Bjork, coaches and staff are setting where the “student” part of “student-athlete” continues to be emphasized.

“We’re very proud of our tradition of excellence on and off the field,” Carter said.

Ohio State’s excellence isn’t confined to fields, courts and classrooms. It is spread across Ohio’s 88 counties.

A new university impact report shares accounts of the incredible work being done by the Buckeye community, telling a comprehensive story that helps to “bring greater visibility to our work and ensure that Ohioans have awareness of the ways Ohio State touches their lives,” the president said.

University officials also highlighted key projects in an annual review of major campus building projects, including the new University Hospital, in the Master Planning and Facilities committee meeting this week. The hospital is scheduled to open in early 2026 and its construction included more than 7 million hours worked by tradespeople, with a peak of 1,200 workers on site.

Construction began on the hospital in September 2020 and finished on time and on budget.

Carter extolled the largest single-facilities project in Ohio State history.

“While I’m excited to cut the ribbon, I’m far more excited about the transformational work that will take place inside this incredible new space,” Carter told trustees. “The advances in cancer care, women’s and infant health, stroke care, organ transplantation and other areas will change and save untold lives across Ohio and beyond.”

The following actions were taken during the full board meeting:

Executive Master of Health Administration degree established
Trustees approved the creation of an Executive Master of Health Administration degree program in the College of Public Health. The program is an extension of the accredited full-time, residential, early career Master of Health Administration program and would extend the reach of the program to more experienced mid-career professionals.

Professional services and construction contracts approved
The board authorized the university to enter or increase professional service and construction contracts for the following projects:

East Hospital elevator renovations
Professional services totaling $1.7 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

East Hospital fire suppression system
Professional services and construction totaling $7.4 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Newton Hall air handling unit replacements
Professional services and construction totaling $12 million, to be paid for with university funds.

Veterinary medical academic building library redesign
Professional services and construction totaling $4.5 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Dental simulation space modernization
Construction totaling $16 million, to be paid for with university debt, university funds and state funds.

Ohio Stadium, Woody Hayes Athletic Center audio and video upgrades
Construction totaling $6.5 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds and university debt.

Wexner Medical Center Outpatient Care Powell
Construction totaling $4.7 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Degrees and certificates approved
The board approved degrees and certificates to be conferred on Dec. 21, 2025, to people who have completed the requirements. 

The board also revoked a doctor of philosophy degree and a bachelor of arts degree after the appropriate bodies and administrative officers of the university complied with applicable procedures.

Resolutions in Memoriam

• Ann D. Christy, who died on Oct. 3, 2025, at age 63. She was associate dean and professor in the Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

• Clyde C. Goad, who died on July 21, 2025. He was professor emeritus in the former Department of Geodetic Science and Surveying.

• William “Bill” E. Henderson, who died on Aug. 13, 2024. He was associate professor emeritus in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

• Paul R. Hothem, who died on July 7, 2025. He was assistant professor emeritus in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

• James “Jim” Gottling, who died on Oct. 29, 2025, at age 92. He was professor emeritus in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the College of Engineering.

• Jacqueline E. LaMuth, who died on July 28, 2025. She was associate professor emerita in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

• Brian G. McHale, who died on July 27, 2025, at age 73. He was professor emeritus in the Department of English in the College of Arts and Sciences.

• Helen Deacon Swank, who died on Aug. 6, 2025, at age 93. She was professor emerita of voice in the School of Music in the College of Arts and Sciences.

• Desh Pal Singh Verma, who died on Oct. 10, 2025. He was professor emeritus in the Department of Molecular Genetics in the College of Arts and Sciences.

• Thomas A. Willke, who died on Aug. 21, 2025, at age 93. He was a founding member of the Department of Statistics in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Report on low enrollment courses and duplicate programs approved
Trustees approved submission of the report to the Ohio Department of Higher Education. Ohio Revised Code requires each state institution of higher education to evaluate courses and programs based on enrollments and duplication with other state institutions of higher education within a geographic region.

Chatham Lane property purchase approved
Trustees approved the purchase of 2.646 acres at 941 Chatham Lane in Columbus at a price of $3.55 million.

Golf course dues and fees approved
Trustees approved golf course membership dues and fees for calendar year 2026. The Ohio State University Golf Club Green Committee and Athletics administration propose raising membership dues and initiation fees to cover rising costs, maintain financial stability, and fund club improvements in 2026.

Revisions to the interim policy on faculty appointments, faculty workload, tenure and retrenchment
The board approved revisions to the interim policy to align with the Ohio legislature’s faculty workload policy requirements.

Amendment to the rules of the university faculty approved
The board approved an amendment to the rules of the university faculty as approved by the University Senate. The amendment would change the process for reviewing complaints pertaining to research compliance to ensure that faculty with relevant research experience perform these research compliance investigations.

Personnel actions approved
Trustees approved the following faculty appointments and reappointments:

Appointments

• Elliott Bendoly as professor (The Richard M. Ross Chair in Management) in the Fisher College of Business for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2030.
• Laura Flannigan as assistant professor (The Warner Woodring Chair in History) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 15, 2030.
• Larry Garvin as professor (The Leon M. McCorkle Jr. Professorship in Commercial Law) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 15, 2030.
• Anna Gawboy as associate professor (Colleen McMahon Professorship in Music) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Kurt Gray as professor (Weary Foundation Endowed Chair in Social Psychology) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Dec. 4, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Roger Goddard as professor (Novice G. Fawcett Chair in Educational Administration) in the College of Education and Human Ecology for a term running from Sept. 15, 2025, through Sept. 14, 2030.
• Jennifer Gold as professor and chair (The Harry C. and Mary Elizabeth Powelson Professorship of Medicine) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Dec. 1, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Maryanna Klatt as professor-clinical (Endowed Chair in Integrative Health) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Nov. 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Joseph Kwon as professor (Richard M. Morrow Chair in Polymer Engineering) in the College of Engineering for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Robert Lount as professor (Irving Abramowitz Memorial Professorship) in the Fisher College of Business for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2030.
• Olan Munson as assistant professor (Dr. Chris Lee Endowed Professorship in Korean) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 15, 2030.
• Michael Murphy as assistant professor-clinical (Smathers Designated Professor at the Moritz Entrepreneurial Business Law Clinic) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2030.
• Efthimi Parasidis as professor (The Kara J. Trott Endowed Professorship in Law in honor of Prof. Morgan E. Shipman) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Nov. 15, 2025, through Nov. 14, 2030.
• Erik Porfeli as interim dean of the College of Education and Human Ecology for a term running from Jan. 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, or until a permanent dean is appointed.
• Paul Reitter as professor (The Ohio Eminent Scholar in German) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Blaine Saito as associate professor (The Lawrence D. Stanley Professorship in Law) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 15, 2030.
• Colleen Settineri as professor-clinical (The Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer Professorship for the Administration of Justice and Rule of Law) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Nov. 15, 2025, through Nov. 14, 2030.
• Abraham Schneider as professor (The George C. Paffenbarger Alumni Chair in Dental Research) in the College of Dentistry for a term running from Nov. 3, 2025, through Nov. 2, 2030.
• Bennett Tepper as professor (John A. Russell Chair for Communication Excellence) in the Fisher College of Business for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2030.
• Andrew Van Buskirk as professor (The Harry T. Mangurian, Jr. Foundation Professorship in Business) in the Fisher College of Business for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2030.
• Xiaoguang Wang as assistant professor (The H.C. ‘Slip’ Slider Professorship in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering) in the College of Engineering for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Lin Zhu Newsad as assistant professor (Elizabeth McKeever Ross Professorship Fund) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Nov. 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.

Reappointments

• Yigit Akin as associate professor (Carter V. Findley Chair of Ottoman and Turkish History) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Arnab Chakravarti as professor and chair (Klotz Family Chair in Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Jeffrey Chalmers as professor (Helen C. Kurtz Chair in Chemical Engineering) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Daniel Chow as professor (The Frank E. and Virginia H. Bazler Chair in Business Law) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Nov. 16, 2025, through Nov. 15, 2030.
• Louis DiMauro as professor (The Dr. Edward E. and Sylvia Hagenlocker Chair in Physics) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2027.
• Edward Foley as professor (Charles W. Ebersold and Florence Whitcomb Ebersold Chair) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Nov. 16, 2025, through Nov. 15, 2030.
• John Fulton as professor (The Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering Endowed Professorship) in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences for a term running from June 1, 2024, through May 31, 2029.
• Jingyin Huang as associate professor (The Alice Louise Ridenour Wood Chair in Mathematics) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 15, 2030.
• Dorothee Imbert as professor and director (The Hubert Schmidt Chair in Landscape Architecture) in the College of Engineering for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
• Alan Michaels as professor (The Edwin M. Cooperman Endowed Chair at The Michael E. Mortiz College of Law) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Feb. 1, 2026, through Jan. 31, 2031.
• Erin Moore as assistant professor (Dr. Carl F. Asseff Professorship in Anthropology and History of Medicine) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through June 30, 2030.
• David Nagib as professor (Dr. Harold “Hal” Miller and Betty J. Miller Endowed Chair in Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2027.
• Rita Pickler as professor (FloAnn Sours Easton Endowed Professorship in Child and Adolescent Health) in the College of Nursing for a term running from Oct. 1, 2025, through May 15, 2028.
• James Rocco as professor and chair (The Mary E. and John W. Alford Research Chair in Head and Neck Cancer) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Bruce Weinberg as professor (Eric Byron Fix-Monda Endowed Chair) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Dec. 4, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2026.

Trustees also approved the appointment of John Horack as vice president, Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge, for a term running from Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2027, and Rob Lowden as vice president and chief information officer starting Aug. 1, 2025.

East Hospital Level III Trauma Center verification approved
Trustees approved the triennial review of a Level III Trauma Center at East Hospital.

Amendments to bylaws and rules and regulations approved
The board approved amendments to the bylaws of the medical staff at The Ohio State University Hospitals, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital, and amendments to the bylaws and rules and regulations of medical staff at Richard J. Solove Research Institute.

FY25 Progress Report on the Ohio Task Force on Affordability and Efficiency in Higher Education recommendations approved
The board approved the progress report as required each fiscal year by the Ohio legislature.

University Foundation Report approved
The board approved, as of Oct. 31, 2025, the establishment of: one endowed chair as part of the Provost’s Endowed Chair Matching Program: the Eric Byron Fix-Monda Endowed Chair; two endowed chairs: the Seth Andre Myers Chair in Global Military History and the Weary Foundation Endowed Chair in Social Psychology; one endowed chair fund as part of the Provost’s Endowed Chair Matching Program: the Horticulture and Crop Science Chair Fund for Future Molecular Plant Scientists - Bridging University Research and High School Classrooms; three endowed professorships: The William E. and Charlotte Curtis Hunt Professorship in the Department of Neurosurgery, The Daniel H. Reigle Endowed Professorship in Sarcoma Research and Care, and the Elizabeth McKeever Ross Professorship; five scholarships as part of the Scarlet and Gray Advantage Endowed Matching Gift Program; 34 additional named endowed funds; and the revision of 13 named endowed funds.

Naming of spaces
Trustees approved the following namings:

• The registration room in The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute as The Herbert J. Block Memorial Tournament Patient Registration.
• The turfgrass innovation lab in the Secrest Welcome and Education Center at the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences Wooster campus as the James L. Prusa Turfgrass Innovation Lab.
• The Capstone Room A (room W258) in Scott Laboratory as the Kimmet Family Capstone Room.
• The CARE Student Lounge in Hitchcock Hall as the Minnie M. McGee Academic Success Hub.

Trustees also approved the naming of the following internal spaces:

At University Hospital:

• Lampert Family Auditorium
• The Harry T. Mangurian, Jr. Foundation Visitor Lounge (Rooms 14000, X1403L, 14040)
• Gift in memory of William and Peg Armbrust by their grateful son, Douglas W. Armbrust, MD ’67 (Room 17582)
• Jane’s Room (Room 23420)

At the Multispecies Animal Learning Complex:

• Dr. Charles H. Ingraham Memorial Lobby
• VAL-CO Broiler Room (room D113)

At Engineering Research and Education Laboratories:

• Douglas “Ben” Herr and Jane Maliszewski Impact Engineering Lab (room 4260)
• Douglas “Ben” Herr and Jane Maliszewski Impact Engineering Collaboration Space (room 4319)
• The George and Gretchen Smith Lab (room 1230
• The James L. and Anita Y. Balthaser Lobby (X104L
• The Victor Yin EED Teaching Prep Room (room 1210)
• Smariga Collaboration Space (room 2235)
• The Joseph and Mary Jane Paquin Makerspace Office (room 1320)
• Tim and Susan Sand Conference Room (room 2243)
• The Allan V. Johnson Reception Area (room 6300)
• Bud and Shelley Baeslack Conference Room (room 6215)
• KG and Nivedita Ganapathi IBE Innovation Space (room 3243)
• The Mark Eisenman Family Collaboration Space (room 2227)
• The Ece & Doruk Borecki Family Huddle Room (room 2229)
• The Schavey Family Graduate Office (room 5229)
• The Byrne Family Foundation Collaboration Space (room 1227)
• Lincoln Electric Foundations Lab (room 1240)
• Lincoln Electric Collaboration Space (room 1235)
• Lincoln Electric Conference Room (room 1243)
• Lincoln Electric Huddle Room (room 1229)
• Lincoln Electric Collaboration Space (room 1241)

Trustees also approved the administrative naming of the Engineering Research and Education Laboratories building at the corner of West Woodruff Avenue and College Road.

Kroetz, also a professor of pharmaceutics and pharmacology at Ohio State, was recognized by the academy for her scientific contributions in pharmacogenetics – among them, identifying genetic markers that predict drug toxicity in patients – and for her exceptional mentorship and academic leadership. 

“Mentoring has always been a key component of what I do, because I have always been involved in graduate education,” she said. “I’ve considered job No. 1, when you’re on the research faculty, is to train the next generation of scientists.” 

The NAM was founded in 1970 as the Institute of Medicine and is one of three academies that make up the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine in the United States. The academies are private, nonprofit institutions that work outside of government to provide objective advice on matters of science, technology and health. 

“The National Academy of Medicine has been instrumental in shaping U.S. and global policy around the promotion of health for decades. I’m thrilled to congratulate Dr. Kroetz on her election to this prestigious and dedicated community of scholars,” said John M. Horack, vice president for research at Ohio State. 

With her background in both the pharmacy profession and the science around drug development, Kroetz looks forward to engaging in national conversations about the health sciences as a new member of the NAM. 

“I’m very honored and really humbled to be elected,” Kroetz said. “And I do want to take it as an opportunity to be involved where I can, and to promote the profession, making sure pharmacy and all of the health sciences have a voice at the table.” 

Kroetz describes her research program as “bedside to bench,” taking human tissue samples to the lab to investigate the molecular mechanisms behind problems physicians see in the clinic. 

Her initial genetics research focused on a family of proteins called ABC transporters that perceive drugs as unfamiliar molecules and pump them away from tumors and other disease targets, limiting the drug’s effectiveness and exposing sensitive surrounding tissue to toxic compounds. She and colleagues explored genes that regulated the transporters’ functions with the aim of designing agents that could block their activity. 

Among the toxicities associated with ABC transporters is their role in chemotherapy-induced sensory peripheral neuropathy, which causes pain, numbness, tingling or burning in the hands and feet, loss of function in the fingers and increased temperature sensitivity. A primary focus of Kroetz’s lab in recent years has included genome-wide association studies to identify genes that contribute to individuals’ increased risk for this toxic side effect and molecular studies to understand how these genes are involved in the neurotoxicity. 

These investigations advanced from the earliest days of human genetics to the rapid genomic sequencing available today through the Pharmacogenetics Research Network funded by the National Institutes of Health for 15 years, Kroetz said. 

“Multiple centers were working on pharmacogenetics and every group across the country was working on a specific class of drugs. We got together several times a year to share resources and help each other,” she said. “This never would have happened without the NIH umbrella funding across these groups.” 

She is a rare example of a pharmacy scholar in academia, combining training as a practicing pharmacist with a scientific doctoral degree and research-heavy career exploring molecular mechanisms behind drugs’ therapeutic – and potentially toxic – effects and how the human body responds to both. 

“I’m still keeping my lab going, but I also wear a different hat. I see pharmacy both from the profession side and the research side, both of which are really equally important,” she said. “So this is an opportunity to help give back to the profession as well.” 

Kroetz earned a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy at Ohio State and a PhD in pharmaceutics at the University of Washington, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Cancer Institute Laboratory of Carcinogenesis. 

She was appointed dean of Ohio State’s College of Pharmacy in 2023 after spending the previous 30 years at the University of California, San Francisco, as a faculty member and eventually chair of the School of Pharmacy Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences. 

Kroetz has been elected a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (2018), the American Heart Association (2002) and the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (2008). She has also received mentoring awards from numerous professional societies. 

The academy elected 90 regular members and 10 international members during its annual meeting. The newly elected members bring NAM’s total membership to more than 2,500, which includes more than 200 international members. New members are elected by current members through a process that recognizes individuals who have made major contributions to the advancement of the medical sciences, health care and public health.  

Kroetz is one of 10 current Ohio State faculty members who have been elected to the NAM.

• On- and off-campus safety resources
• Well-being resources
• Buckeye Commons
• Senate Bill 1 guidance and resources
• Freedom of expression
• Listen. Learn. Discuss., Ohio State’s civil discourse initiative

For more on faculty and instructor resources and support, visit the Office of Academic Affairs website for a comprehensive collection of resources.

Safety resources
The safety of the Ohio State community is the university’s highest priority. Ohio State is taking multiple measures to keep students, faculty and staff safe both on and off campus.

Ohio State has increased the presence of police on the Columbus campus by hiring and training additional Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD) officers — and worked with the Columbus Division of Police (CPD) to increase patrols off campus. The joint patrol program pairs four OSUPD officers with officers from CPD to work in the nearby neighborhood where many students live. This is over and above the regular patrols in place on and off campus.

The popular Lyft Ride Smart at Ohio State continues to offer students discounted late-night rides in a designated area from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., and the Office of Student Life is offering any Buckeye student complimentary personal safety alarms that, when triggered, create a loud noise that can be heard a couple hundred feet away. These can be picked up at the Willie J. Young Sr. Off-Campus and Commuter Student Engagement office at the Ohio Union from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The office also offers complimentary safety devices for student homes, including window and door alarms.

Ongoing safety initiatives and investments include:

• Authorizing OSUPD to hire additional police officers with the goal to have 75 full-time officers supported by hundreds of non-sworn security.
• Purchasing and installing additional cameras supported by a 24/7 dispatch center.
• Continuing support for license plate reader (LPR) cameras located on and off campus to assist with law enforcement investigations.
• Continuing the cruise lights initiative for on-campus police vehicle patrols utilizing steady, low-intensity blue lights in the rear window of cruisers to increase visibility and deter crime. The program, initially announced as a pilot, has been fully adopted by OSUPD for nighttime patrols.
• Providing non-sworn security Buckeye Block Watch patrols in targeted University District areas. The program features security teams that are taught how to deal with difficult situations and learn best practices for public engagement, including mental health responses, first aid and CPR.

Public safety officials are working toward more safety enhancements as part of both short-term and long-term planning so look for additional announcements throughout the year. More safety resources are available on the university’s public safety website.

Well-being resources
Ohio State offers an array of services and resources for students, faculty and staff, meeting Buckeyes where they are and when it’s convenient for them.

The Office of Student Life utilizes a model of 10 Dimensions of Wellness to support all aspects of well-being. Students and others can access the online Health and Wellness Resource Guide with a searchable database of support services available to the Ohio State community.

Among the services and resources available to students through the Office of Student Life:

Counseling and Consultation Service offers a multi-model approach with a variety of free treatment options based on the individual’s specific needs. Students have access to a number of on-demand services such as drop-in workshops, Let’s Talk informal mental health consultations, and Uwill teletherapy as well as individual and group therapy.

The Student Life Student Wellness Center offers peer-to-peer coaching on topics such as personal finance and nutrition. They also facilitate Community Wellness Education, consisting of online modules about alcohol, prescription drug safety and mental well-being. Our Collegiate Recovery Community offers resources for students in or seeking long-term recovery.

The Monda Student Resource Center enhances students’ holistic, essential needs through resources and support from campus and community partners.

In addition, Student Health Services offers a variety of on-campus health care options to the student population while Recreational Sports promotes living an active life of balance, physical activity and well-being.

Buckeye Commons
The Office of Student Life has opened the Buckeye Commons, a central hub where students can connect, network, engage, learn and thrive in an inclusive, dedicated space focused on advancing student success. The Buckeye Commons, on the first floor of the Ohio Union, provides robust educational offerings and opportunities for networking and hosts events, workshops and programming on a number of topics from leadership, career preparation and study skills, to time management and building community.

Senate Bill 1 guidance and resources
In the spring, Ohio Governor DeWine signed SB 1, the “Advance Ohio Higher Education Act,” into law, with most provisions of the bill taking effect June 27, 2025. A university-wide committee developed implementation guidance in collaboration with teams of faculty, staff and students.

Please continue to visit the SB 1 Compliance website, which includes resources, policies and guidance, guidance from the Ohio Department of Higher Education and more. In the coming weeks, the university will continue to communicate this and still-emerging guidance as additional elements of the law go into effect. Throughout the fall semester, the Office of Faculty Affairs will hold a series of open office hours for faculty and instructors to answer questions on a variety of issues, including SB 1-related topics. Each session will include representatives from faculty affairs, the Drake Institute for Teaching and Learning and the Center for Ethics and Human Values (CEHV). These sessions are open to all faculty and instructors, including graduate teaching associates. More information is available on the Faculty Affairs website.

CEHV has also created a guide for Facilitating Civil Discourse in the Classroom offering instructors confidence and resources to ensure that their discussions with students reflect the mission of the university by being open, rigorous and constructive. It follows the center’s 4Cs methodology for leading challenging conversations in the classroom.

Academic freedom is a core value at Ohio State, and SB 1 does not restrict the freedom of faculty to teach, conduct research or publish research findings or to discuss in classrooms, in their own manner, any material that is relevant to the subject matter as defined in the course syllabus. Additionally, SB 1 also does not prohibit controversial issues from being discussed in class, though it does require the university to “ensure the fullest degree of intellectual diversity” to allow students to reach their own conclusions.

Students, faculty and staff are also encouraged to review the one-page SB 1 overview and visit the Information on Legislative and Executive Actions website for additional information.

Freedom of expression
Ohio State remains committed to protecting the First Amendment right to free speech, academic freedom and freedom of expression on our campuses. The First Amendment and Ohio law expressly protect the rights of students, faculty, staff and visitors at the university to lawfully engage in speech and expressive activities. The Campus Free Speech Policy, adopted in May 2023, supports this dedication, and the Freedom of Expression website serves as an online hub for support resources, including frequently asked questions.

The university may adopt and enforce time, place and manner restrictions for speech and expressive activities. These content-neutral restrictions, like the university space standards and university signage standards, are in place to ensure that teaching, learning, research, service and patient care missions can occur without interruption. The signage standards were recently updated, and chalking is no longer permitted on campus and will be removed.

To maintain neutrality that assures academic freedom and freedom of speech and expression, Ohio State refrains from taking institutional positions on matters that extend beyond the university. For more information, see the Philosophy on Institutional and Leadership Statements. Consistent with SB 1’s requirements about controversial beliefs and policies, the university updated the philosophy in June with more detailed guidance on who it applies to and what constitutes an institutional statement. 

Listen. Learn. Discuss.
At Ohio State, we share one important thing with each other: We have all chosen to be Buckeyes. We can use this common ground to engage with one another in a way that is respectful and caring, even — and especially — when we disagree.

The university’s civil discourse initiative is focused on helping members of our community listen to and discuss different perspectives productively, build trust with one another, learn to successfully navigate complex conversations and clearly articulate their point of view. Listen. Learn. Discuss. will help students, faculty and staff form skills to engage in productive and respectful dialogue. Visit the initiative’s website for courses, workshops and events.

At the event, Ohio State leaders and Google Public Sector representatives announced that university students, faculty and staff can now access secure versions of Google AI tools, ensuring that Google does not save or share the information they enter. The event included demonstrations of the Google Gemini large language model, the Google NotebookLM research assistant and note-taking tool and other applications.

Data & AI Day was designed to help Ohio State instructors, researchers and staff learn more about how Google’s AI tools complement the university’s AI Fluency initiative, said Ohio State’s Executive Vice President and Provost Ravi V. Bellamkonda. Starting this year, the initiative will embed AI education into the undergraduate curriculum, preparing students to use AI tools, as well as understand, question and innovate with them.

“Our mission is to shape the future for our students,” he said. “Every student who’s coming in this year will graduate being bilingual – fluent in AI and the application of AI in their careers.”

Ohio State’s partnership with Google Public Sector also ensures that Ohio State’s faculty and researchers have access to advanced technology that can help carry out their work, Bellamkonda said. 

“What we’d like to do is to empower you, our faculty, our scholars, our teachers to have access to the tools, to have access to resources, and then you interpret how AI makes the most sense for you,” he said. “How might we create a moment for our students to think about them discovering something that they did not know before? AI Fluency at its core is our journey together at Ohio State.”

The goal of Data & AI Day was to shed light on how colleges and universities can adapt to AI’s growing role in education and research, said Google Public Sector Chief Technology Officer Charles Elliott.

“We really try to focus on making sure that AI can be folded into the workstreams that many of you do. And of course, think about productivity,” Elliott told participants. “There’s a lot of great resources … out there specifically for teaching. I encourage all of you to go check those things out.”

Data & AI Day included breakout sessions for classroom instructors and researchers. Google Public Sector representatives demonstrated how instructors can use Google AI tools to assist with tasks such as course and lecture design and helping students prepare for exams.

By experimenting with the tools, “you will have an idea of what you can do,” said Jillian Yoerges, Google for Education workspace specialist. “You will also have an idea of what your students can do.”

Breakout sessions for researchers included demonstrations on how to use Google AI tools to access hundreds of models and datasets on a wide variety of subjects and distill complex research articles into succinct audio overviews, among other functions.

“Understanding what tool to use for what is important,” said Chris Daughtery, education strategy lead representative for Google Cloud.

For more information on how Ohio State students, faculty and staff can access Google AI tools, visit Ohio State’s Sign Up and Provisioning website.

Adriana Forero and Fernanda Novais will each receive a five-year, $505,000 award supporting their research projects while they’re still early-career scientists.

Eugene Oltz, chair of the Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, said this ultracompetitive award recognizes Forero and Novais’ contributions to scientific discoveries that advance our understanding of the interaction between human biology and infectious agents.

“Their work advances our ability to improve human health,” Oltz said. “To our knowledge, they are the first from Ohio State to even make it to the interview stage, let alone receive not one, but two awards.”

In her lab, Forero investigates how genes linked to neurodevelopmental disorders shape immune defenses not in the brain, but in the lungs. She says the PATH funds for her study, titled “Resident nuclear factors drive heterogeneity in the antiviral response,” will allow her to examine how transcriptional regulators influence the way epithelial cells fight off viral infections.

“With the flexibility this award provides, I can combine cutting-edge genomic tools and virology techniques to uncover hidden connections between genetics and immune vulnerability,” Forero said. “It is a bold step into an underexplored intersection of fields, with real potential to uncover new genetic, epigenetic and transcriptional regulatory processes that coordinate the host response to viral infection.”

Forero’s work creates a deeper understanding of the link between genetic variants found in neurodevelopmental disorders and increased susceptibility to viral infections, such as influenza A. Through her work, she will contribute to the development of targeted interventions that enhance protection against infectious agents and mitigate adverse infection outcomes.

“In doing so, we also hope to reveal broader principles about immune defense that apply to other pathogens and at-risk populations,” Forero said.

Novais is an expert in immune responses to Leishmania parasites, which cause cutaneous leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease that affects millions worldwide. With more than 20 years of experience in the field, Novais has uncovered how the body’s own immune cells can contribute to skin damage during infection, and how this knowledge could guide the development of new therapies.

With support from the PATH award, Novais now aims to understand how Leishmania parasites manage to survive indefinitely in the human body, even after cutaneous ulcers have resolved, posing a risk for reactivation or the development of metastatic lesions. This is an enduring mystery.

“This award provides the freedom and flexibility to explore new scientific directions that would be difficult to pursue through traditional funding mechanisms,” Novais said. “We’re especially interested in how these parasites manipulate the host’s iron metabolism to evade immune detection and persist in tissues.”

Her project, titled “Immune evasion strategy of an intracellular parasite,” will investigate how Leishmania alters the biology of immune cells to create a hospitable environment for long-term survival. The findings could have broad implications – not only for leishmaniasis, but for understanding how other chronic infections operate and how we might intervene to restore health.

“This research will help us better understand the tug-of-war between host and pathogen,” Novais said. “By uncovering the strategies that allow microbes to hide from our immune system, we can begin to design smarter ways to prevent or treat infection.”

“All of the music I’ve ever made… now belongs… to me,” she said in a statement on her website.

In 2019, Swift’s then-label Big Machine Records sold her entire catalog, six albums at the time. She maintained that she was not provided the opportunity to purchase them herself, under acceptable conditions. In an effort to regain control of her work, and dilute the value of her original albums, she re-recorded four of the six.

But now, she owns everything: the originals and the new versions.

Two Ohio State professors offer their thoughts on what this means for the record industry and for musical artists.  

What is a master recording?

When an artist signs a contract with a record label, the label typically covers recording fees, marketing fees and other costs upfront. This provides the artist a better chance of having a successful album. The record label also owns these original, or master, recordings.

Jesse Walker, assistant professor of marketing and logistics at The Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business, played bass for the group Flobots for nine years. While this initial monetary support can be helpful, he said, it can also present a challenge to a band.

“You basically pay back that advanced cash through your royalty percentage,” he said. “Essentially the record company is giving you a massive loan. Only once you pay it back do you start receiving your portion of the royalties.”

Walker, who was in the band from 2005-2014, said they still do not own the masters for the three records they released while signed to labels.

While Swift no longer needs to worry about the royalties – her estimated net worth is $1.6 billion – she has talked about the sentimental and creative attachment she has to her work. Jason Rawls, assistant professor of hip-hop in the School of Music, echoed this sentiment.

“There’s something to be said for owning your own music, your own product,” said Rawls, who is both a producer and recording artist, going by J Rawls professionally. “When you create music, it’s part of you. It’s who you are. It’s almost like having a baby.”

Will this change the record industry?

Neither Walker nor Rawls thought Swift’s announcement would change much in the record industry.

“There may be changes here and there,” Rawls said, “but I don’t see sweeping changes. The industry is the way it is for a reason. The record companies aren’t going to give up that much power. Still, it’s a step in the right direction.”

Walker agreed. Swift’s ability to craft a narrative around the sale of her masters, including the re-recordings, made this a unique situation.

“The re-recordings, from a business perspective, that’s brilliant,” he said. “She was able to do that because she’s a highly effective storyteller. I don’t know if another artist out there would be able to spin that narrative as successfully as she did.”

Getting people to listen to the re-recordings, dubbed “Taylor’s Versions”, is impressive on its own, Walker said. In fact, many of Swift’s fans refused to listen to the masters out of loyalty to the performer.

“Replications of art are not valued nearly as much as the original,” he said. “What she’s done is a kind of replication. It may have worked because she built this amazing story around it. I don’t think most artists would be able to do that.”

What does the future look like?

While Walker doesn’t anticipate a cascade of change in the record industry, he does believe that the conversation around Swift’s music has raised other concerns.

“What does it mean to monetize art?” he said. “I don’t think most people like the idea of a faceless corporation owning the music that they’re listening to. They want to support the artist, right? But the labels could argue that they add a lot of value, that they do things artists can’t do themselves. So, how valuable is that?”

Rawls is happy that Swift’s campaign is calling attention to the complexities of record deals.

“Most artists assigned to major record labels never own their masters,” he said. “To be able to own them must be one of the best feelings in the world. What she’s accomplished is magnificent. It’s a win for all of us.”

Trustees heard from Liang-Shih Fan, Distinguished University Professor and C. John Easton Professor in Engineering in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, as he accepted the Pierre Agostini Prize. Fan’s research focuses on creating cleaner, more efficient ways to produce energy, fuels and chemicals while reducing pollution.

The prize is Ohio State’s most prestigious honor for scholarly and artistic achievement. It memorializes Pierre Agostini, professor emeritus of physics at Ohio State, who won the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physics with two of his colleagues, and highlights Ohio State’s commitment to the promotion of innovative and consequential research and creative expression. Agostini attended the ceremony.

The Agostini Prize is a celebration of Fan’s lifelong research. One of his most important innovations is a process called chemical looping, which allows fossil fuels, biomass or plastic wastes to be used for producing energy, fuels and chemicals without releasing harmful carbon dioxide into the air. Instead of burning fuel in the traditional way, his method uses special metal oxide particles to transfer oxygen, which helps generate energy while capturing the carbon dioxide before it escapes.

“We know that the work of our faculty changes and literally saves lives – we want to celebrate that accordingly,” Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. said Friday during the full board of trustees meeting.

Just this week, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers announced the creation of a new Institute-level high honor, the L.-S. Fan Award for Advancing Fundamentals of Chemical Engineering, which recognizes “significant and new contributions to fundamental practice in chemical engineering.”

“The decision through my life to stay on at Ohio State is the best decision I have ever made,” said Fan, an Ohio State faculty member since 1978. “I feel the impact that can be produced at Ohio State.”

The following actions were taken during the full board meeting:

Personnel actions approved
Trustees approved the following appointments:

• Aravind Chandrasekaren as interim dean of the Fisher College of Business for a term running from June 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027.
• W. Kimryn Rathmell as CEO of the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute for a term beginning May 27, 2025.
• Paula Song as dean of the College of Public Health for a term running from July 9, 2025, to June 30, 2030.
• Dukagjin Blakaj as professor (The Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Professorship in Radiation Oncology-Proton Therapy) in the College of Medicine for a term running from June 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Colleen Cebulla as professor (Dr. Paul A Weber Chair in Ophthalmology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from March 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Jeremy Fantl as professor (The Steve R. and Sarah E. O’Donnell Professorship in Philosophy) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Stephanie Gorka as associate professor (The Kaufmann Family Professorship for Breakthroughs in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health) in the College of Medicine for a term running from June 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Nina Vanessa Kraguljac as professor (Dr. Lee E. Shackelford Chair in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health) in the College of Medicine for a term running from June 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Somashekar Krishna as professor-clinical (Endowed Professorship in Internal Medicine Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from June 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Amy Margolis as professor (S.T.A.R. Professorship) in the College of Medicine for a term running from June 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Molly McNett as professor-clinical (Helene Fuld Health Trust Endowed Professorship for Evidence-based Practice in Nursing and Healthcare) in the College of Nursing for a term running from May 20, 2025, through May 20, 2030.
• Leah Pyter as associate professor (Doctor John D. and E. Olive Brumbaugh Chair in Brain Research and Teaching) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Feb. 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Christian Rolfo as professor (Diane Nye and Michael Rayden Chair in Innovative Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from June 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Christo Sevov as associate Professor (ASC Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from May 1, 2025, through April 30, 2030.
• Ambro Van Hoof as professor (Ohio Eminent Scholar in Molecular Genetics) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through June 30, 2030.

Trustees approved reappointments for the following:

• Vishnu Srinivasan as vice president and chief investment officer in the Office of Business and Finance for a term running from May 1, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Sujit Basu as professor (The Jack C. Geer M.D. Professorship in Pathology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Nicole Bernal as professor (The American Electric Power Foundation Chair in Burn Care) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Trevor Brown as dean of the John Glenn College of Public Affairs for a term starting June 30, 2028.
• William Carson III as professor (The John B. and Jane T. McCoy Chair in Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Pierre Giglio as associate professor-clinical (The Esther Dardinger Endowed Chair in Neuro-Oncology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Deliang Guo as professor (Urban and Shelley Meyer Professorship in Cancer) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Maria Ignatieva as professor (The Martha W. Farmer Endowed Professorship in Theatre) at the Ohio State Lima campus for a term running from June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2026.
• Wael Jarjour as professor (The Martha Morehouse Chair in Arthritis and Immunology Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Ani Katchova as professor (The Farm Income Enhancement Endowed Chair in Agricultural Policy, Trade and Marketing) in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences for a term running from Jan. 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2029.
• Sorabh Khandelwal as professor (Samuel J. Kiehl III MD Chair in Emergency Medicine) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Ryan King as divisional dean in the College of Arts and Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences, for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2030.
• Ching-Chang Ko as professor (Vig/Williams Endowed Chair in Orthodontics) in the College of Dentistry for a term running from Jan. 27, 2025, through Aug.14, 2028.
• Susan Koletar as professor (Frank E. and Mary W. Pomerene Professorship in the Prevention and Treatment of Infectious Diseases) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Ryan Nash as professor (The Hagop S. Mekhjian MD Chair in Medical Ethics and Professionalism) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Anil Parwani as chair and professor (The Donald A. Senhauser, MD, Chair in Pathology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028.
• Kamal Pohar as associate professor (The Julius Skestos and Diana Skestos Chair in Urology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Matthew Ringel as chair and professor (The Ralph W. Kurtz Chair in Hormonology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027.
• Orlando Simonetti as professor (The John W. Wolfe Professorship in Cardiovascular Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Mytheli Sreenivas as chair and professor (Designated Professorship in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from March 1, 2024, through Feb. 28, 2028.
• Andrew Thomas as professor (The Robert F. Wolfe and Edgar T. Wolfe Foundation Chief Clinical Officer Chair in the Wexner Medical Center) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.
• Ingrid Werner as professor (The Martin and Andrew Murrer Professorship in Finance) in the Fisher College of Business for a term running from March 1, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2030.
• Hsin-Jung Joyce Wu as professor (Ronald L. Whisler MD Chair in Rheumatology and Immunology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2029.

Trustees also approved an extension for Karla Zadnik as dean of the College of Optometry for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

Honorary degree awarded
Trustees approved an honorary doctor of public service degree to LeBron James, an Ohio native, professional basketball player and community leader. James visited the university virtually in February and spoke with a class in the John Glenn College of Public Affairs about his passion for bettering his community.

Professional services and construction contracts approved
The board authorized the university to enter or increase professional service and construction contracts for the following projects:

• Athletics technology modernization
  Professional services totaling $1.7 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.
• North Towers building upgrades
  Professional services totaling $10 million, to be paid for with university debt.
• Tunnel rehabilitation, phase one
  Professional services totaling $1 million, to be paid for with university debt and funds, state funds and partner funds.
• Doan Hall sprinkler installation
  Professional services totaling $1.2 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.
• Doan Hall SPECT CTs
  Professional services and construction totaling $4.6 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.
• Outpatient East existing lot renovation
  Professional services and construction totaling $5.5 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds. 
• Outpatient East new west parking lot
  Professional services and construction totaling $7.2 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.
• Schottenstein Center scoreboard replacement
  Professional services and construction totaling $5.2 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.
• Battery Cell Research and Demonstration Center
  Professional services and construction totaling $1.7 million, to be paid for with university and partner funds.

2025-2026 academic year undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees approved
Trustees approved tuition and mandatory fees, non-residential and international surcharges, and room and board rates for undergraduate students at all campuses of Ohio State for the academic year 2025-2026.

2025-26 academic year graduate tuition and mandatory fees approved
Trustees approved tuition and mandatory fees, and non-residential surcharges for graduate students at all campuses of Ohio State for the academic year 2025-2026. Graduate and professional fees and student health plan were also approved.

Zollinger Road property purchase approved
Trustees approved the purchase of 5.070 acres at 1800 Zollinger Road in Upper Arlington, Ohio. The property, Ohio State Wexner Medical Center Outpatient Care Upper Arlington, supports the university’s plan for strategic investment in outpatient services for neighboring communities.

Degrees and certificates approved
The board approved degrees and certificates to be conferred on May 4 and Aug. 3, 2025, to people who have completed the requirements.

Interim capital investment plan for fiscal year 2026 approved
Trustees approved the interim capital investment plan for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.

Ohio State Energy Partners utility system interim capital improvements plan for fiscal year 2026 approved
Trustees approved utility system life-cycle renovation, repair and replacement projects by Ohio State Energy Partners.

Digital textbook fees approved
The board approved digital textbook pass-through fees at all campuses for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Non-resident tuition waiver for Ohio State students who are veterans, military members, or their immediate families approved
Trustees approved waiving, for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, all but $5 of the non-resident tuition surcharge for Ohio State students who are veterans or military members, with 90 days or more of honorable service in the United States uniformed services, and their immediate families that do not otherwise qualify for in-state tuition.

Waiver of tuition for Ohio State students who enroll in university-approved third-party provider or direct enrollment study abroad programs approved
The board approved waiving, for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, tuition and fees for students enrolled in a third-party provider or direct enrollment study abroad program and to allow the students to remain enrolled at the university while participating in these programs. The university has received this waiver since fiscal year 2015.

Resolutions in Memoriam

• Frank E. Battocletti, who died on May 28, 2024, at age 90. He was professor emeritus in the Department of Electric and Computer Engineering at the College of Engineering.
• Morris “Murray” Beja, who died on Feb. 6, 2025, at age 89. He was professor emeritus in the Department of English.
• Harding Ganz, who died recently at age 86. He was professor emeritus in the Department of History.
• Dennis R. Heldman, who died on April 3, 2025, at age 86. He was professor emeritus in the Department of Food Science and Technology in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.
• Richard Kenneth Lindquist, who died on Sept. 16, 2024. He was a professor in the Department of Entomology in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.
• William J. Mitsch, who died on Feb. 12, 2025. He was Distinguished Professor of Environment and Natural Resources in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. 
• Forest V. Muir, who died on Jan. 2, 2025, at age 85. He was professor emeritus in the Department of Animal Sciences in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.
• Charles F. Parker, who died on July 19, 2024, at age 89. He was professor emeritus in the Department of Animal Sciences in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.
• Robert Hall Wagoner II, who died on Jan. 28, 2025. He was professor emeritus in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering in the College of Engineering.
• Gerald Winer, who died on Nov. 17, 2024, at age 83. He was professor emeritus of psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Interim operating budget for fiscal year 2026 approved
The board approved the interim operating budget that will allow the university to continue to advance its academic and financial goals during the period from July 1, 2025, through Aug. 31, 2025.

Amendment to the rules of the university faculty approved
The board approved an amendment to the rules of the university faculty as approved by the University Senate. The amendment would modify salary recovery percentages for research faculty and allow them to engage in these additional required activities consistent with funding requirements.

Authorization for designated officials to buy, sell, assign and transfer securities, to deposit or withdraw funds from bank and investment accounts, to designate depositories and to execute treasury- and insurance-related agreements 
The board approved designated officials to buy, sell, assign and transfer securities, to deposit or withdraw funds from bank and investment accounts held in the name of Ohio State, to designate depositories and to execute treasury- and insurance-related agreements.

Reappointments to the Self-Insurance Board approved
Trustees approved the reappointment of two members of the Self-Insurance Board that oversees the University Self-Insurance Program:

• Cynthia A. Powell, CPA, term ending June 30, 2027
• D. Brent Mulgrew, term ending June 30, 2027

Issuance of general receipts, obligations and Multiyear Debt Issuance Program III approved
Trustees approved the program that authorizes the issuance and sale of general receipts obligations of the university in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $400 million for the purposes of financing, on an interim or permanent basis, the costs of certain university capital improvement projects, refunding the outstanding principal amount of current obligations of the university and paying costs and expenses associated with the issuance of such debt, and authorization for amendments to the existing trust indenture and other documents as required.

Easements approved

• Trustees authorized to Columbia Gas of Ohio a perpetual natural gas transmission easement across university property located on 6.069 acres located along Ackerman Road and the northern border of the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory.
• The board authorized the Board of County Commissioners of Wayne County a perpetual roadway easement across university property located along Messner Road in Wooster, Ohio.
• Trustees also authorized the city of Columbus a perpetual sanitary sewer easement across 1.438 acres of university property located along Woody Hayes Drive.

University Foundation report approved
The board approved the report as of March 31, 2025, which includes: the establishment of one endowed chair: the Dr. Lee E. Shackelford Chair in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health; four endowed professorships: The Dr. Frederick H. Davidorf Honorary Professorship, the Margaret Bowers Hardymon Professorship in Surgery, the Honda Endowed Professorship in Automotive Manufacturing and The Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Professorship in Radiation Oncology-Proton Therapy; six scholarships as part of the Scarlet and Gray Advantage Endowed Matching Gift Program; 35 additional named endowed funds; and the revision of 13 named endowed funds.

Naming of spaces
Trustees approved the following namings:

• The Meta STEM Instruction Innovation Hub, room A, in Ramseyer Hall
• The Gary (Class of 1962) And Helen Cole Office, room 105A, in the Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex
• The Lasko Family Home Team Locker Room, room 183, in the Lacrosse Stadium
• The Dr. Jack L. Beal Room, room R200A, in the Riffe Building
•  Two buildings in the Waterman Complex at Lane Avenue and Kenny Road:
  • Waterman – Dairy
  • Waterman – Multispecies Animal Learning Center
• Internal spaces in Waterman – Dairy:
  • Galton Dairy Display Hall
  • Specht and Deam Family Viewing Walkway
  • Dale and Betty Hedge Family Automated Milking System Room
• Internal spaces in Waterman – Multispecies Animal Learning Center:
  • Clifford and Dale Baughman Outreach & Engagement Center
  • Dave and Dorothy Case Terrace
• The renaming of Medical Center Drive (east of Westpark Street to West 10th Avenue) and the naming of Medical Center Drive East and Medical Center Drive West in the Wexner Medical Center.
• The renaming of Wexner Medical Center buildings from:
  • Inpatient Tower to University Hospital
  • James A. Rhodes Hall - University Hospital to University Hospital – Rhodes Hall
  • Charles Austin Doan Hall to University Hospital – Doan Hall
  • Brain and Spine Hospital to University Hospital – Pavilion

Updates to charters for the Internal Audit Department and the Legal, Audit, Risk and Compliance committee
Trustees approved the amended charters for the Internal Audit Department and Legal, Audit, Risk and Compliance committee.

Amendments to retirement plans approved
The board approved the following amendments to various retirement plans:

• Fifth Amendment to The Ohio State University Retirement Continuation Plan
• Fifth Amendment to The Ohio State University Retirement Continuation Plan II
• First Amendment to The Ohio State University 403(b) Retirement Plan
• First Amendment to The Ohio State University 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
• First Amendment to The Ohio State University Alternative Retirement Plan
• Third Amendment to The Ohio State University Alternative Retirement Plan

Ratification of settlement agreement and amendments to cost allocation agreement approved
Trustees approved a settlement agreement and amendments to a cost allocation agreement regarding the Combined Heat and Power Plant.

Election of officers approved
Trustees approved the following slate of officers for the board of trustees:

• John W. Zeiger, chair
• Elizabeth P. Kessler, vice chair

Ratification of committee appointments for fiscal year 2025-2026 approved
Trustees approved the ratification of committee appointments for fiscal year 2025-2026 as follows:

Academic Affairs & Student Life
Reginald A. Wilkinson, chair 
Elizabeth A. Harsh, vice chair
Elizabeth P. Kessler 
Jeff M.S. Kaplan 
Michael F. Kiggin 
Bradley R. Kastan 
Kendall C. Buchan 
Eric Bielefeld (faculty member) 
Stefanie Sanford 
John W. Zeiger (ex officio)

Athletics
Gary R. Heminger, chair
Michael F. Kiggin, vice chair
Elizabeth P. Kessler
Jeff M.S. Kaplan
Pierre Bigby
Bradley R. Kastan
George A. Skestos
Kendall C. Buchan
John W. Zeiger (ex officio)

Finance & Investment
Tomislav B. Mitevski, chair
Pierre Bigby, vice chair
Gary R. Heminger
Michael F. Kiggin
George A. Skestos
Amy Chronis
Kent M. Stahl
John W. Zeiger (ex officio)

Legal, Audit, Risk & Compliance
Elizabeth P. Kessler, chair
Bradley R. Kastan, vice chair
Michael F. Kiggin
Juan Jose Perez
Kendall C. Buchan
Amy Chronis
John W. Zeiger (ex officio)

Master Planning & Facilities
Juan Jose Perez, chair
George A. Skestos, vice chair
Reginald A. Wilkinson
Pierre Bigby
Bradley R. Kastan
Kendall C. Buchan
Robert H. Schottenstein
Keith Myers
John W. Zeiger (ex officio)

Research, Innovation & Strategic Partnerships
Kara J. Trott, chair
Reginald A. Wilkinson, vice chair
Elizabeth A. Harsh
Juan Jose Perez
Phillip Popovich (faculty member)
John W. Zeiger (ex officio)

Talent, Compensation & Governance:
Jeff M.S. Kaplan, chair
Elizabeth P. Kessler, vice chair
Gary R. Heminger
Reginald A. Wilkinson
Tomislav B. Mitevski
Juan Jose Perez
Kara J. Trott 
John W. Zeiger (ex officio)

Wexner Medical Center
Leslie H. Wexner, chair
Gary R. Heminger
Tomislav B. Mitevski
Juan Jose Perez
George A. Skestos
Kara J. Trott
Robert H. Schottenstein
Stephen D. Steinour
Cindy Hilsheimer
Amy Chronis
Hiroyuki Fujita
John W. Zeiger (ex officio, voting)
Walter E. Carter Jr. (ex officio, voting)
Ravi V. Bellamkonda (ex officio, voting)
Michael Papadakis (ex officio, voting)
John J. Warner (ex officio, voting)

Finance Committee, Wexner Medical Center
Stephen D. Steinour, chair
John W. Zeiger
Tomislav B. Mitevski
Juan Jose Perez
Pierre Bigby
George A. Skestos
Amy Chronis
John J. Warner|
Michael Papadakis

Quality & Professional Affairs Committee, Wexner Medical Center
Juan Jose Perez, chair
George A. Skestos
Ravi V. Bellamkonda
Michael Papadakis
John J. Warner
Eric Adkins
Doreen Agnese
Jay M. Anderson
Carol R. Bradford
Stacy A. Brethauer
David E. Cohn
Scott A. Holliday
Elizabeth Seely
Deana Sievert
Corrin Steinhauer
Andrew M. Thomas

Foundation Board Representative
Pierre Bigby

Alumni Board Representative
Elizabeth A. Harsh

Trustees heard from assistant coach Brian Hartline, who lauded the team’s performance on its way to winning the first national championship in the 12-team playoff era. Returning student-athletes Caleb Downs, Carson Hinzman, Sonny Styles and Tegra Tshabola – along with the championship trophy – were featured during the meeting.

President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. celebrated the team, but noted Ohio State’s exceptionalism includes more than athletics.

“We strive for excellence in all aspects: athletics, student learning, research and patient care,” Carter said.

The board also honored coaches and student-athletes from the Buckeye spirit program, which last month won the national championship, its second in a row.

At the Monday meeting of the Athletics board committee, Head Coach Ryan Day outlined the major changes impacting college football – and how Ohio State has adjusted to them to become champions.

“With all this change going on, to me it was the timeless principles and values of this university that our team displayed which allowed us to reach our goals of becoming national champions,” Day said. Those include hard work, sacrifice, loyalty, courage, humility, excellence, perseverance and resilience.

Day also highlighted the academic achievements of the team. The most recent semester was the fifth straight for the team to achieve a cumulative GPA over 3 – with more than 120 student-athletes on the team – and a perfect academic progress rate of 1,000, tying Harvard University as the best in the country.     

The board on Wednesday approved Day’s contract extension through Jan. 31, 2032. Athletic Director Ross Bjork on Monday lauded the move for providing “longevity, stability, [and] continuity in this ever-changing world we think is so, so important, and we’re just blessed to have Coach Day’s leadership of our football program.” 

Trustees also approved the establishment of the Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture, and Society as a tenure-initiating unit. The University Senate’s Council on Academic Affairs granted the Chase Center temporary center status in September 2023 to support the center’s initial organizational efforts pending the hiring of the Chase Center’s inaugural executive director, Lee Strang, in August 2024.

Initiated in 2023 by the state of Ohio, the Chase Center will serve as an academic home at Ohio State for teaching and researching the foundation of the American constitutional order and its impact on society. The Ohio General Assembly selected Ohio State and four other state universities for these independent academic units.

Trustees also approved the appointment of Richard Silveria as vice president and chief financial officer of the Wexner Medical Center, effective April 1, 2025, and the extension of Michael Eicher’s contract as senior vice president for advancement and president of the Ohio State University Foundation through June 30, 2025. The board also approved the reappointment of Trevor Brown as dean of the John Glenn College of Public Affairs for a term ending June 30, 2028.

The following actions were taken during the full board meeting:

Distinguished Service Awards approved
Trustees approved the following Distinguished Service Awards to be presented in 2025:

• Patricia Brundige
• William Farrar
• Elizabeth and Richard Germain
• Gerald Newsom
• Charles Wise
• Melissa Conrath

Professional services and construction contracts approved
The board authorized the university to enter or increase professional service and construction contracts for the following projects:

Ohio State Brain and Spine Hospital: Air handler replacement
Professional services totaling $5.2 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Dental simulation space modernization at Postle Hall
Professional services totaling $1.4 million, to be paid for with university funds.

Bus technology testing facility for Center for Automotive Research
Professional services and construction totaling $14.6 million, to be paid for with partner funds.

Schottenstein Center main roof replacement
Professional services and construction totaling $8 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Cell therapy lab at Polaris
Professional services and construction totaling $4.6 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Emergency response radio system for Wexner Medical Center facilities
Construction totaling $3.2 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

James Outpatient Care: Nuclear medicine expansion
Construction totaling $5 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Ohio State East Hospital: Emergency generator
Construction totaling $4.2 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Resolutions in Memoriam approved

• Marion L. Cremer, professor emerita in hospitality management in what is today the College of Education and Human Ecology, who died on Nov. 6, 2024, at age 89.
• Mark E. Headings, professor emeritus of entomology in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, who died on Dec. 19, 2024, at age 87. 
• Larry E. Miller, professor emeritus of agricultural education in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, who died on Oct. 5, 2024, at age 81.
• Carole Rogel Poirier, associate professor emerita of history in the College of Arts and Sciences, who died on Sept. 30, 2024, at age 85.
• Stacy Weislogel, professor emeritus in the former department of aviation in the College of Engineering, who died on Nov. 30, 2024, at age 85.

Personnel actions approved
Trustees approved the following appointments and extensions:

• Ezekiel Johnston-Halperin as professor (ENGIE-Axium Endowed Professorship) in the Office of Academic Affairs, for a term running from Sept. 1, 2024, through Aug. 31, 2029.
• Mitch Phelps as professor (Charles H. Kimberly Professorship in Pharmacy) in the College of Pharmacy, for a term running from Nov. 1, 2024, through Oct. 31, 2027.
• Emma Read, professor-clinical (Ruth Stanton Chair in Veterinary Medicine) in the College of Veterinary Medicine, for a term running from Jan. 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2030.

Trustees approved reappointments for the following:

• Marcelo Dapino as professor (American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Designated Professorship) in the College of Engineering, for a term running from Sept. 1, 2024, through Aug. 31, 2025.
• Jonda McNair as professor (The Charlotte S. Huck Professorship in Children’s Literature) in the College of Education and Human Ecology, for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2030.
• John Nusstein as professor (Dr. William J. Meyers Endowed Chair in Endodontics) in the College of Dentistry, for a term running from July 1, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2026.

Joint use agreements approved
Trustees approved joint use agreements between Ohio State and PrimaryOne Health for $250,000 and Rev1 Ventures for $500,000.

Establishment of new affiliate for university-owned captive insurance company approved 
Trustees approved the establishment of a new affiliate for a university-owned captive insurance company, Great River Insurance, LLC, in the state of Vermont. The establishment is necessary to manage and mitigate risks, enhance cost-efficiency and improve the overall control of the insurance program and process for the university.

University Foundation report approved
The board approved the report as of Dec. 31, 2024, which includes: the establishment of a designated professorship: the Smathers Designated Professor at the Moritz Entrepreneurial Business Law Clinic; one endowed chair: the Dr. Tom Mack Endowed Chair in Global One Health; one endowed chair fund: the Edward and Julie Bacome Foundation Head Basketball Coach Fund; two endowed professorships: The Russell C. Shaw and Lynn B. Shaw Endowed Professorship in Mathematics and the Kaufmann Family Professorship for Breakthroughs in Psychiatry and Behavioral Health; four endowed professorship funds: The Dr. Frederick H. Davidorf Honorary Professorship Fund, the Elizabeth McKeever Ross Professorship Fund, The Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Professorship Fund in Radiation Oncology-Proton Therapy and the Tingkang Xia Endowed Professorship Fund in Physics; nine scholarships as part of the Scarlet and Gray Advantage Endowed Matching Gift Program; two scholarships as part of the Joseph A. Alutto Global Leadership Initiative and 54 additional named endowed funds; the revision of 13 named endowed funds; and the closure of two named endowed funds.

Amendment to Ohio State Energy Partners utility system capital improvements plan approved
Trustees approved amending the Ohio State Energy utility system capital improvements plan for fiscal year 2025.

Property sale approved
Trustees approved the sale of 23.5 acres at 3455 West Dublin Granville Road, located north of the Don Scott Airport.

Naming of internal spaces
Trustees approved the following namings:

• The Julia S. Hansen Auditorium in Morrill Hall, 1465 Mt. Vernon Ave., in Marion.
• The Reid Family Career Closet in the Younkin Success Center, 1640 Neil Ave., in Columbus.
• The Reactor Annex at 1296 Kinnear Road (building 155), in Columbus.

The oldest medal awarded by the National Academy of Sciences, the Henry Draper Medal celebrates those who have made “a recent, original investigation in astronomical physics, of sufficient importance and benefit to science to merit such recognition.” It is awarded every four years.

Leroy’s work was selected for pathbreaking efforts that have characterized, “in unprecedented detail, the physical nature of the interstellar medium and its relationship to star formation in nearby galaxies.” 

“We are thrilled that the National Academy of Sciences has recognized Professor Leroy with the Henry Draper Medal,” said David Horn, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Ohio State. 

“His pioneering contributions have advanced our understanding of the composition and history of the universe, and this prestigious award further enhances the reputation of our outstanding Department of Astronomy.”

The interstellar medium that Leroy studies is the gas and dust between stars. This material fills the space in galaxies, and often contains primordial leftovers from the beginnings of the universe. Because it is the fuel from which future stars are born and a complex ecosystem that links past and future generations of stars, the interstellar medium is a crucial research target for many fields of astronomy.  

“Understanding how cosmic ecosystems evolve is a big topic in astronomy right now,” Leroy said. “Because of technology made available to us in only the last five to 10 years, we’ve been able to bring this topic into focus, making new observations that finally answer questions we’ve had for decades.

Using special telescopes to study all sorts of light, especially radio and infrared light, allows scientists to peer into the interstellar medium directly, said Leroy. Before coming to Ohio State, Leroy worked at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, which operates the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and Very Large Array (VLA) Radio Telescope facilities. 

It was there that he began harnessing cutting-edge technology to conduct studies on molecular gas and star formation in galaxies. This led to him co-founding the PHANGS-ALMA project, now widely recognized as the first systematic survey of the many stellar nurseries and galaxies that dot our sky. 

“Lots of people do surveys of one galaxy or a small part of our Milky Way using one type of light and get a ton of detail, but miss the big picture,” said Leroy. “With PHANGS, we have worked to line up all the best telescopes in the world on a representative set of galaxies in order to take pictures of the entire cosmic ecosystem.” 

While scientists in the past could only obtain blurred or indistinct pictures of the gas and dust in faraway galaxies, today these same structures can be seen with remarkable detail.  

By combining the ALMA radio array with powerful instruments like the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope, the PHANGS-ALMA project has mapped the gas, dust and newly born stars for more than 100,000 stellar nurseries across nearly 100 galaxies, providing a new generation of astrophysicists with an in-depth view of the area where stars and planets form. 

“What we've done is build an observational basis that informs how we go from a cosmos full of just spread-out hydrogen gas to the cosmos full of stars and galaxies we see around us,” Leroy said. “Our observations get at the core physics behind how galaxies turn their gas into stars.”

Many previous recipients of the Henry Draper Medal have a record of continued achievements in their fields: Six recipients have been honored with a National Medal of Science, while nine recipients have gone on to win the Nobel Prize in Physics.

“This medal feels very validating for the impact of this work that our team has done,” Leroy said. "Studying the interstellar medium and star formation is important to many fields, but sometimes it can be under-the-hood research. So it’s neat to see it catching people’s imagination at the same level as black holes and pulsars.” 

Recipients also receive a cash prize of $25,000, which Leroy plans to use to bolster further collaboration with international colleagues, including other members of the PHANGS-ALMA team. Leroy praised the collaborative and supportive scientific environment at Ohio State for helping him win the award. 

“Ohio State’s astronomy department is world-famous for its invigorating, supportive atmosphere,” he said. “This is an amazing place to do cutting-edge research.” 

U.S. News & World Report has again ranked Ohio State Online programs among the top in the nation in its 2025 Best Online Programs Rankings announced today (Jan. 21, 2025).

The university’s online bachelor’s programs ranked No. 5 nationally – marking its place within the top 10 for the 10th time since online programs were first ranked at Ohio State 12 years ago.

The College of Nursing’s RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences’ Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and AS to Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences in the College of Medicine; and the College of Dentistry’s RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene contributed to the 2025 ranking.

Ohio State is also the only institution in Ohio to be ranked within the top 50 for undergraduate online programs.

This year’s rankings mark the 11th consecutive year the College of Nursing’s online master’s programs have ranked within the top 10, tied with Duke University for No. 3 in the nation (ranked No. 4 in 2024).

Ohio State’s online Master of Science in Nursing features five specialization areas, two of which received rankings this year. The Master of Science in Nursing in Family Nurse Practitioner ranked No. 5 (tied with Drexel University) and is top-ranked among public institutions in this category.

The university’s Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner was the top – and only – public institution ranked within the Online Psychiatric Mental Health, Across the Lifespan category. Ohio State ranked No. 3 overall and tied with Drexel University and George Washington University.

“Continued online program growth and excellence is driven by our shared commitment to accessibility, workforce development, affordability, serving Ohio, and increasing options and opportunities for student success,” said Jason Lemon, vice provost and dean for online learning. “We are excited to serve learners in Ohio, and beyond, when and where they need education through online degree opportunities.”

Ohio State’s online programs have previously been recognized for being military-friendly by organizations like the National Veterans Leadership Foundation and the Pat Tillman Foundation. This year, U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs rankings added to that, recognizing Ohio State’s Fisher College of Business with a No. 3 rating for its online business programs for veterans (tied with Rutgers University – New Brunswick and Newark). Ohio State was eligible to be ranked in this category for the first time thanks to its growing military and veteran enrollments.

Fisher’s Specialized Master in Business Analytics (SMB-A) program jumped forward in the rankings to No. 5 (No. 25 in 2024) in the graduate business (non-MBA) category, tied with Duke University and the University of Massachusetts-Amherst.

Ohio State’s online engineering master’s degree programs – the Master of Global Engineering Leadership, the Master of Engineering Management and the Master of Science in Welding Engineering – also saw a jump in the rankings from No. 34 in 2024 to No. 22 in 2025, tied with the University of Arizona and Virginia Commonwealth University.

In the Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management Programs category, Ohio State ranked No. 13 (ranked No.14 in 2024), tied with the University of Maryland-College Park. The university was also the only Ohio university to be ranked in this category.

Together, Ohio State’s Master of Learning Technology offered by the College of Education and Human Ecology and the Master of Arts in Art Education from the College of Arts and Sciences were ranked alongside four other institutions at No. 54 in the Best Online Master’s in Education programs.

Over the past decade, Ohio State Online’s academic program portfolio has grown to nearly 90 degrees and certificates offered by 13 of Ohio State’s 15 colleges.

“Ohio State has expanded and supported its fully online degree options and increased their quality at the same time. This has been possible through strong partnerships between Ohio State Online, the academic colleges and senior university administration,” Lemon said.

Affordability and quality of instruction are at the forefront of the consideration of U.S. News & World Report. The site uses insights from these factors and others to rank online programs at regionally accredited institutions across the country.

View the full list of 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs rankings.

Now restored, the third-party Lexis Nexis service pulls data from the CPD crime log and populates a map showing off-campus crime reports. Ohio State preprogrammed the map to a one-mile radius to include the crime reports from the most recent 7-day period. The default crime categories are pre-determined by Lexis Nexis and serve as another tool for Buckeyes to stay informed about crime and crime trends. Additional features available include the ability to:

• Turn on additional crime categories
• Access months or years of data
• See heat maps and trends including time of day
• Sign up for crime alerts (daily, weekly or monthly)
• Enter your own, personal home address to set up tailored alerts

The Community Crime Map shows crimes occurring off-campus and outside The Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD) jurisdiction, while on-campus crimes can continue to be accessed via the OSUPD daily crime log. 

When crimes occur on, or directly impact campus, Ohio State’s Department of Public Safety uses a variety of methods to communicate — watch to learn more. These methods include, but are not limited to, the Buckeye Alert System and Public Safety Notices and are supported by the Department of Public Safety website, social media, traditional media and other communication channels.

Trustees approved several items regarding Carmenton, the university’s innovation district, including a master agreement that Ohio State will join between the university-affiliated Science and Technology Campus Corporation (SciTech) and real estate company Tishman Speyer to develop its next phase.

Ohio State’s board also reviewed a ground lease from Ohio State to SciTech, allowing SciTech to develop infrastructure to expand the district and sublease two vertical development parcels to Tishman Speyer for mixed-use development.

Carmenton will eventually add residential areas, green spaces, connector trails, restaurants and entertainment venues.

On Tuesday, members of the Athletics committee heard affirmation from Ross Bjork, senior vice president and Wolfe Foundation-Eugene Smith Endowed athletics director, that Ohio State will continue to support 36 varsity sports and all varsity sports will continue to offer scholarship opportunities, reiterating a public commitment made by President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. during his recent investiture ceremony.

Trustees on Wednesday also approved the following administrative personnel appointments:

• Margaret Young, dean and director, Lima campus
• Jason Opal, dean and director, Mansfield campus
• Jennifer Schlueter, dean and director, Marion campus
• Matthew Smith, dean and director, Newark campus
• Chris Kabourek, senior vice president, Administration and Planning 
• Ravi Bellamkonda, executive vice president and provost

The board also approved the extension of Karla Zadnik’s appointment as dean of the College of Optometry from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, and the interim appointments of Ryan Goerlitz and Bryan Pyles as co-leaders, Financial Services, at the Wexner Medical Center.

The following actions were taken during the full board meeting:

Creation of a Master of Cybersecurity and Digital Trust approved
Trustees approved a new master’s degree, with the goal to supply highly skilled individuals to the cybersecurity workforce in Ohio and the country. The program will be offered in partnership with the Institute for Cybersecurity and Digital Trust and the College of Engineering’s Professional and Distance Education Program.

FY24 Progress Report on Ohio Task Force on Affordability and Efficiency in Higher Education recommendations approved
The board approved Ohio State’s FY24 progress report on the Ohio Task Force on Affordability and Efficiency in Higher Education recommendations, which will be submitted to the chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

Football ticket prices and golf course dues and fees approved
Trustees approved student football ticket prices for fiscal year 2026 and golf course membership dues for calendar year 2025.

Charter trustee appointment approved 
Trustees approved the appointment of Amy Chronis as a charter trustee to the Board of Trustees.

Resolutions in Memoriam approved

• Charles “Chuck” F. Adams Jr., professor emeritus in the John Glenn College of Public Affairs, who died on July 24, 2024, at age 79.
• Barbara Ann Brahm, associate professor emeritus in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, who died on April 24, 2024.
• Harry Russell Conrad, professor emeritus in the Department of Dairy Science, who died on June 2, 2024, at age 98.
• Jo Ann Davidson, former member of the Board of Trustees, who died on Oct. 25, 2024, at age 97.
• Richard L. Dobec, professor emeritus in the Department of Horse Production and Management, who died on April 30, 2024, at age 87.
• Ronald B. “Ron” Hammond, professor emeritus in the Department of Entomology, who died on April 26, 2024, at age 73.
• Lowell R. “Skip” Nault, professor emeritus in the Department of Entomology, who died on Nov. 6, 2024, at age 84.
• Albert Herman Soloway, dean and professor emeritus in the College of Pharmacy, who died on Sept. 7, 2024, at age 99.
• Anna O. Soter, professor emerita in the College of Education and Human Ecology, who died on Oct. 14, 2024, at age 77.
• T. Davis Sydnor, professor emeritus of urban forestry in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, who died on Oct. 12, 2023.
• Paul L. Wright, associate professor emeritus in the Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, who died on Aug. 17, 2024, at age 85.
• Frank J. Zidonis, faculty emeritus in the College of Education and Human Ecology, who died on June 16, 2024, at age 94.

Audited consolidated financial statements to the Auditor of State approved 
Trustees approved the submittal of the university’s draft audited consolidated financial statements to the Auditor of State.

Amendments to the Rules of the University Faculty approved
The board approved amendments to the Rules of the University Faculty regarding Dean’s List recognition and the Council of Deans.

Personnel actions approved
Trustees approved the following appointments and extensions:

• Mohamed Abdel-Rahman as professor (Irene D. Hirsch Chair in Ophthalmology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Dec. 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Richard Bruno as professor (Carol S. Kennedy Professorship in Human Nutrition) in the College of Education and Human Ecology for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2029.
• Ginny Bumgardner as professor (Olga Jonasson, MD Professorship in Surgery) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Nov. 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Cynthia Carnes as professor and senior associate vice president (ENGIE-Axium Endowed Chair) in the Office of Academic Affairs for a term running from Sept. 1, 2024, through Aug. 31, 2029.
• Anne Co as professor (Dow Professorship in Chemistry) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2029.
• Ana-Paula Correia as professor (The Ted and Lois Cyphert Distinguished Professorship in Teacher Education) in the College of Education and Human Ecology for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2029.
• Matthew Corriere as professor (The Luther M. Keith Professorship in Surgery) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Nov. 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Jodi Ford as professor (Grayce M. Sills Endowed Professorship in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing) in the College of Nursing for a term running from Nov. 22, 2024, through Nov. 21, 2029.
• Sarah Hayford as professor (Robert Lazarus Professorship in Population Studies) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Sept. 1, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Benjamin Hoffmann as professor (Designated Professorship in French and Francophone Literature) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Sept. 1, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Ezekiel Johnson-Halperin as professor (ENGIE-Axium Endowed Professor) in the Office of Academic Affairs for a term running from Sept. 1, 2024, through Aug. 31, 2029.
• John Maharry as acting dean and director at the Ohio State Marion campus for a term running from running from Jan. 1, 2025, through March 16, 2025.
• Winston Thompson as associate professor (The William H. and Laceryjette V. Casto Professorship in Interprofessional Education) in the College of Education and Human Ecology for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2029.

Reappointments for the following:

• Rafael Bruschweiler as professor (Ohio Research Scholar in Chemistry) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Sept. 1, 2023, through Aug. 30, 2028.
• Gregory Caldeira as Distinguished University Professor (Ann and Darrell Dreher Chair in Political Communication and Policy Thinking) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• James Landers as associate professor-clinical (The Harold L. and Audrey P. Enarson Professorship in Public Policy) in the John Glenn College of Public Affairs for a term running from Aug. 15, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2028.
• Maria Palazzi as professor (Ohio Eminent Scholar in Art and Design Technology) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 1, 2024, through July 31, 2029.
• Carmen Winant as professor (Roy Lichtenstein Chair of Studio Art) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2028.

The extensions of appointments for the following:

• Damon Jaggars as vice provost and dean of University Libraries in the Office of Academic Affairs for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027.
• Bernadette Melnyk as professor (Helene Fuld Health Trust Endowed Professorship for Evidence-based Practice in Nursing and Healthcare) in the College of Nursing for a term running from Nov. 1, 2024, through Jan. 10, 2025.
• Rustin Moore as dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027.

Degrees and certificates for autumn term 2024 approved
The board approved degrees and certificates to be conferred on Dec. 15, 2024, for students who have completed the requirements.

Professional services and construction contracts approved
The board authorized the university to enter into or increase professional service and construction contracts for the following projects:

• Airport planning services
  Professional services totaling $300,000, to be paid for with partner funds.
• College facility master plans FY25
  Professional services totaling $1 million, to be paid for with university funds.
• 1922 Club
  Professional services totaling $1.5 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.
• Bus testing facility
  Professional services and construction totaling $1.5 million, to be paid for with partner funds.
• Doan Hall roof replacement
  Professional services and construction totaling $14 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.
• Parks Hall third floor lab renovation
  Professional services and construction totaling $4.3 million, to be paid for with university funds.
• Waterman Lab Multispecies Animal Learning Center
  Professional services and construction totaling $1.5 million, to be paid for with partner funds.
• James Outpatient retail pharmacy and infusion buildout
  Professional services and construction totaling $4.2 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.
• Building envelope renewal FY25-26
  Professional services and construction totaling $7 million, to be paid for with state funds.
• Electrical renovations FY25-26
  Professional services and construction totaling $4.4 million, to be paid for with state funds.
• Elevator renovations F25-26
  Professional services and construction totaling $7.5 million, to be paid for with state funds.
• HVAC/control system renewal FY25-26
  Professional services and construction totaling $7.2 million, to be paid for with state funds.
• Roof renewal FY25-26
  Professional services and construction totaling $8.5 million, to be paid for with state funds.

James Outpatient advanced imaging
Professional services and construction totaling $9.4 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.

Waterman Lab infrastructure project
Professional services and construction totaling $6.9 million, to be paid for with university funds.

Joint use agreements approved
Trustees approved joint use agreements between Ohio State and the Mid-Ohio Food Collective for $500,000; Ohio State and the PAST Foundation for $300,000; and Ohio State and the Mercy Health-Springfield Regional Medical Center for $750,000.

University Foundation report approved
The board approved the report as of Sept. 30, 2024, which includes: the establishment of one designated professorship: the Designated Professorship in French and Francophone Literature; two endowed chairs: the Roger E. Kirk Endowed Chair in Quantitative Psychology and the Carter V. Findley Chair in Ottoman and Turkish History; one endowed fellowship: the Roger E. Kirk Endowed Fellowship in Quantitative Psychology; five scholarships as part of the Scarlet and Gray Advantage Endowed Matching Gift Program and 23 additional named endowed funds; the revision of 11 named endowed funds; and the closure of one named endowed fund.

Naming of internal spaces
Trustees approved the following namings:

• The blood draw lab (X110C) in the Outpatient Care New Albany facility, located at 6100 North Hamilton Road, as the Dr. Michael B. and Joyce Y. Hallet Lab.
• The following internal spaces in the Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Center, located at 1645 Neil Ave.:
  • Generous gift from the Medical Class of 1971 in honor of George Paulson, MD (room 132)
  • Generous gift from the College of Medicine Class of 1999 in memory of Dr. John Stang (room 001)
  • Generous gift from the Medical Class of 1975 in memory of Margaret Hines, PhD (room 018)
  • Generous gift in memory of Christine Walker (room 015N)

Carter spoke to an audience of university students, faculty and staff, state and community representatives, and leaders in higher education. He delivered his remarks to a full ballroom in Columbus Friday afternoon as part of his official investiture ceremony.

As he approaches a year in office, Carter is ready to move from learning to action, he said. He encouraged the university to think big about everything from affordability to entrepreneurship to research and application of artificial intelligence – all to elevate Ohio State as a national model for higher education.

“As I take a look at where we are today … our reach, our impact is incredibly strong. But what made us successful in the past is not necessarily what’s going to make us successful in the future,” Carter said.

Carter observed that the next decade will be pivotal for both the university and higher education in the United States. He spoke to the need to boost confidence in the institution of higher education and pointed to the momentum at Ohio State.

The university welcomed the largest class of new, first-year students to start the autumn semester in August – more than 9,500 in total. Carter said Ohio State continues to excel in research with innovation that makes an impact across the state, nation and globe. The university remains one of the largest, and best employers in the state.

“The future of higher education is and will be here at The Ohio State University. … We will be a model for the nation. Excellence is not a destination or a goal at The Ohio State University. Excellence is an expectation. With the team that we have built, that expectation will be a reality,” he said.

Carter said the new strategic plan will be called Education for Citizenship 2035. The plan will focus on improving on six core themes:

• Academics
• Research and creative expression
• Health care
• Talent and culture
• Operations
• Collegiate athletics

Based on this framework, developed in collaboration with hundreds of stakeholders, Carter said Education for Citizenship 2035 will require Buckeyes from across the university community to help build out the initiatives and programs that make up the strategic plan.

“I want you to know these are the things that I will be working on with the board, with the community, and with all of you to achieve excellence in everything that we do. First and foremost, academic excellence. It is our North Star. If we are great at academics, then everything else will soon follow,” he said.

Carter encouraged the Buckeye community to be bold in ideas and action. He suggested improving the career prospects of students through expanded internship opportunities and incorporating entrepreneurship into the student experience. Despite a rapidly changing landscape in athletics, Carter said the university intends to continue to provide scholarships in all 36 sports.

Carter challenged students, faculty and staff to share their ideas in shaping the university’s strategic plan, including ways to drive down student debt, expand the university’s online educational opportunities and elevate the regional campuses.

Carter said one of the most pressing goals is focused on AI research and innovation. He pointed to the university’s strong connections in the artificial intelligence space and the commitment and investment by Ohio State’s Center for Software Innovation. He said the university can be a leader in marketing, technical development, design and software to maximize what AI technology has to offer.

“The workforce of the future will demand that our students are not just articulate, but fluent in how artificial intelligence works. … We will explore what it means and how to use AI in a cross-disciplinary fashion,” he said. “We’re going to be a model for the nation for artificial intelligence.”

The university developed a website to help the campus community support the new strategic plan. Once the framework is built out, the plan will launch on July 1, 2025.

President Carter’s first months in office and his vision for the university have been well received in the state. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine spoke about the importance of Ohio State to the region and how he has come to value Carter’s leadership.

“A good leader must be a good listener. From the moment President Carter came to Ohio State, he and Mrs. Carter have been listening. He’s explored Ohio State's campuses and communities, visited Ohio State regional campuses, listened to faculty, staff, students, alumni, and leaders from business and government,” DeWine said. “He talked to doctors, staff and administrators at the Wexner Medical Center, and he will continue to listen.”

Chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education Mike Duffey echoed the sentiment.

“Perhaps now more than ever, it is crucial to have the right leader in place to steer a university like Ohio State into the future,” Chancellor Duffey said. “Through my interactions with President Carter, I know that the Board of Trustees made the right choice for the university, for its students, and for our state.”

Carter concluded his remarks confident in the idea that Ohio State would be successful in defining the future of higher education in the coming decade. He said he drew inspiration from the university’s alma mater, “Carmen Ohio.” 

“‘Time and change will surely show how firm thy friendship, Ohio.’ How firm thy friendship, indeed. That is the element that makes our campus so special. God bless everyone who works, studies and supports The Ohio State University,” he said. “As always and forever, go Bucks. Now, let’s get to work.”

At Ohio State Marion, Schlueter will lead initiatives to enhance and broaden the university’s dedication to student achievement, innovative teaching and learning, research opportunities and community engagement.

“Jennifer is an experienced leader deeply committed to educational access and innovation,” said Ryan J. Schmiesing, senior vice provost for external engagement. “Her passion for collaborative problem-solving and high-impact learning practices makes her an exceptional choice for dean at Ohio State Marion.”

In her current role, Schlueter is responsible for creating and managing institution-wide processes in academic strategy, policy and operations. Before joining The New School, Schlueter held leadership roles at Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD), serving as the college’s inaugural dean of graduate studies before becoming associate provost and dean of academics.  

In joining Ohio State, Schlueter will return to familiar ground. Before joining CCAD, she was an Ohio State faculty member for nine years in the Department of Theatre (currently the Department of Theatre, Film, and Media Arts). She served as director of undergraduate studies and associate chair, and she also took on university-level service as a faculty fellow of curriculum development at the Graduate School and as project director of the Global Arts & Humanities Discovery Theme. At Ohio State, Schlueter received several top teaching awards, including the Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching, the Ronald and Deborah Ratner Distinguished Teaching Award, and, while a graduate student, the Graduate Associate Teaching Award. 

“Ohio State has been fundamental to my development as a scholar, artist, teacher and leader,” said Schlueter. “Because I have been an Ohio State student, faculty member and administrator across my 16 previous years at the institution, I know, personally, what it is to be mentored by Ohio State’s faculty, to teach its students across campuses, and to collaborate across its colleges. I am excited to return to serve it as Marion’s dean and director, and to bring my experiences beyond it with me as I do.” 

Schlueter’s creative endeavors have received accolades from prominent publications, including Backstage Magazine and the Chicago Tribune. In addition, she has directed full productions and staged readings, written several journal articles and book chapters, and was commissioned by BBC Radio 4.

Ohio State Marion fosters student engagement through its supportive campus culture and small class size. In May 2024, the first class of Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology graduates completed their degrees at Ohio State Marion. This innovative program emphasizes hands-on learning, including immersive internships and senior capstone experiences with regional manufacturers.  

“The Marion campus is rich with expertise and opportunity,” said Schlueter. “From the Prairie Learning Lab to the Memories Project, Marion faculty dovetail their research with service learning and civic engagement work in ways that are ripe for expansion and amplification.” 

More than 1,500 first-year Ohio State students start their academic journeys on a regional campus. Students can complete the first one to three years of any of Ohio State’s 200-plus majors on the Marion campus before transitioning to the Columbus campus to complete their degree. Nine majors can be completed at Ohio State Marion. 

Schlueter’s appointment rounds out new leadership across Ohio State’s four regional campuses. She will join Margaret (Meggie) Young at Ohio State Lima, Jason Opal at Ohio State Mansfield and Matthew Smith at Ohio State Newark, who began their service earlier this year. Together, this cohort of four regional campus deans will work together to ensure the university is enhancing access and impact across Ohio.

“The commitment to the regional campuses that President Carter has articulated — and the opportunity to join a cohort of new deans with a mandate to lead a collaborative, strategic, growth-oriented approach to that commitment — is once in a lifetime,” said Schlueter. “The mission to provide people across Ohio with a pathway to an affordable, well-reputed post-secondary education — and to connect them with world class faculty, facilities and programs in the process — is needed now more than ever.”

Schlueter earned her PhD in theatre performance, history, and theory, and her master’s degree in theatre from Ohio State. Her Bachelor of Arts is in theatre from Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri.

“We are grateful to Ohio State Marion Dean and Director Greg Rose for his longstanding leadership,” said Karla Zadnik, interim executive vice president and provost. Rose will retire from Ohio State at the end of December after 20 years as dean and over 40 years as a faculty member at Ohio State Marion. John Maharry, assistant dean of academic opportunities and professor of mathematics on the Marion campus, will serve as acting dean and director from Jan. 1 until Schlueter’s arrival, pending approval of the Board of Trustees. 

“We also deeply appreciate the members of the search advisory committee, chaired by Noelle Arnold, senior associate dean in the College of Education and Human Ecology, for their commitment to finding our next exceptional leader,” said Zadnik. “We look forward to welcoming Dr. Schlueter back to Ohio State.”

“With Halloween, there is a tension between fun and fear that makes the holiday special,” said Merrill Kaplan, director of the Center for Folklore Studies at The Ohio State University. 

“It’s the season for not being entirely sure whether you believe in ghosts but walking up to that glass behind which lies the supernatural, behind which lies death, really, and tapping on the glass and running away,” she said.

Kaplan enjoys the folklore surrounding Halloween. 

“Almost anything you associate with Halloween is kind of folklore, it’s some kind of custom, or it’s some kind of story, or it’s a belief that we entertain, or it’s a costume that you make,” she said. 

Halloween folklore goes back centuries. Some believe it originated in ancient pagan culture, Kaplan said. Or perhaps it originated with Samhain, an old Irish festival where one might encounter the supernatural.

Halloween today draws some of its customs from medieval Christianity, she said.  

“Visiting graveyards, candlelit processions, people in long robes, death visiting you, ghosts, unquiet souls, those are all things that are really from medieval Christianity.”

Folklore is central to the holiday. In addition to stories, folklore can also refer to many other aspects of everyday life.   

“Folklore is a huge category that is made up of things that we say, not just folktales, but also rumors and jokes and nursery rhymes, and some forms of gossip, things that we do. Anything that is customary is probably folklore,” she said.

• Nov. 5 asynchronous learning pilot
• Nonpartisan election resources
• Civil discourse and Listen. Learn. Discuss. – including Nov. 4 pre-election event
• Institutional neutrality and freedom of expression
• Political activity guidelines
• Support and resources

All of this information is also available on the election resources page on the Listen. Learn. Discuss. website.

Asynchronous learning day
Following approval of a proposal from University Senate, Ohio State will hold a day of asynchronous learning on Election Day as a one-time trial to support student participation in the general election. Instructors whose classes would otherwise have met in person or virtually should, in lieu of meeting, assign asynchronous classwork to be determined by the instructor.

Nonpartisan election resources
All Buckeyes are encouraged to support Ohio State’s motto of “Education for Citizenship” by helping to spread the message of nonpartisan civic engagement.

OSU Votes is a nonpartisan, student-led initiative in the Office of Student Life that works to register, educate and encourage other students to vote. If there are requests for voter education materials, OSU Votes can provide resources and facts on the voting process.

The Ohio Secretary of State provides all the information you need to stay informed about election day. You can check your Ohio voter registration status, find your polling location and view details on how to vote early.

Civil discourse and Listen. Learn. Discuss.
Ohio State is committed to building an environment that fosters productive discussions on challenging topics, even when there is disagreement. All members of the university community are expected to treat one another with respect and compassion.

The university’s Listen. Learn. Discuss. initiative helps community members productively listen to and discuss different perspectives, build trust with one another and learn how to clearly articulate their point of view. The initiative’s website includes a page specifically for election related resources including the Center for Ethics and Human Values’ civil discourse guide to help individuals engage with one another around the election.

Students, faculty and staff are invited to join the Institute for Democratic Engagement & Accountability (IDEA) and the Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture, and Society – in collaboration with Listen. Learn. Discuss. – for a virtual, interactive session on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. Participants will be invited to share ideas and concerns in a positive environment and discuss concrete steps that can be taken individually and together to promote understanding and responsible civic engagement. The goal is to create knowledge, skills and strategies to engage responsibly in democracy and our local community, regardless of the outcome of the election.

Institutional neutrality and freedom of expression
To maintain the neutrality that assures academic freedom and freedom of speech and expression, Ohio State refrains from taking institutional positions on complex political or global matters, events, natural disasters or tragedies that extend beyond the operations of the university itself.

Ohio State’s Philosophy on Institutional and Leadership Statements uses the university’s Shared Values, the Chicago Principles and the Kalven Report as guiding principles. The philosophy does not impact academic freedom or any person’s ability to make statements that represent their own, individual views. Faculty have, among other things, the freedom to assemble and freedom in how they choose to conduct research, teach, publish and discuss their areas of academic expertise.

The First Amendment and Ohio law expressly protect the rights of students, faculty, staff and visitors at the university to lawfully engage in speech and expressive activities. The First Amendment protects speech that is offensive, hateful or upsetting unless it falls into a category that the U.S. Supreme Court has determined is unprotected.

When speech becomes incitement or threats of violence, Ohio State has and will always move quickly to enforce the law and university policy. Ohio State has not and will not tolerate hatred, intimidation or harassment of anyone based on their religious beliefs, nationality or identity. The university will continue to follow established processes to address allegations or reports of discrimination, harassment or other violations of university rules, standards, the Code of Student Conduct and other community expectations. The university’s Office of Institutional Equity (OIE) reviews and responds to reports of discrimination and harassment, and reports can be made directly to OIE.

Political activity guidelines
The university has guidelines regarding political activity, which can help employees understand how to exercise their constitutional rights without creating the appearance of endorsement for a particular candidate or cause.

Support and resources
The university recognizes that members of the community may be deeply impacted by a variety of national and global events and is committed to supporting all students, faculty and staff through direct actions and interventions that actively support health, safety and well-being.

The Office of Student Life’s Counseling and Consultation Service has created a Coping with Current Events page for students to help with concerns about global conflict, the political environment, economic stress or other issues that can impact mental health. The webpage outlines a range of resources to help students cope and give them the skills to support their peers.

Faculty and staff are also encouraged to take advantage of the resources offered through the Employee Assistance Program. The program offers tools and support resources available to eligible Ohio State employees, their dependents, household members, parents and parents-in-law.

Carter spoke before about 150 guests at the City Club of Cleveland last week. The club is one of the nation’s oldest free speech forums and has hosted sitting presidents, members of Congress and community leaders.

As he prepares for his Nov. 8 investiture, Carter said he is excited by the momentum at Ohio State. He pointed to more than 80,000 applications to join the university this year, historic enrollment for new first-year students and record-high graduate enrollment.

“There’s something special happening right now, today, at Ohio State. I couldn’t be more excited about that. But we’ve got to think about: How are we going to transform ourselves?” he said. “I’ve said this before: Even though we were founded in 1870 as a land-grant university, we’re going to have to re-imagine what it means to be a land-grant university going past 2030, all the way to 2035.”

Carter said he has engaged faculty, students, staff and alumni in a series of workshops to understand what they think the university should prioritize. He said the fruit of that labor will be launched at his investiture as the university’s new strategic plan – Education for Citizenship 2035.

“I believe our job, our mission, is not only to create the best learning and teaching environment in the country. I believe our job is to create a pathway for the next great citizens of our country, the state of Ohio, and, quite frankly, the next leaders for the state of Ohio,” he said. “In fact, my vision, … why I came to this institution, I believe The Ohio State University is uniquely poised to be the university not only for the state of Ohio, but for the United States.”

He said Ohio State would achieve that goal by emphasizing strategic areas of focus. They will include academic excellence; groundbreaking research and development; world-class clinical care; talent acquisition and retention; resource stewardship; and athletics.

Carter said the focus on these areas would also come with a commitment to affordability.

“I want to not only be the place where people want to go, but I also want people to be able to say, ‘This is the best value education you can get for the dollar,’ whether you’re in the state of Ohio or out of state.”  

Pending approval by the Board of Trustees, Bellamkonda, who is currently provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at Emory University, will begin his tenure at Ohio State effective January 14, 2025. 

“We couldn’t be more pleased to welcome Dr. Bellamkonda and his exemplary record of research, teaching and service to the Ohio State community,” Carter said. “In searching for a chief academic officer, it was critical that we find the exact right individual – someone who exemplifies our commitment to excellence in academics as well as collaborative leadership.” 

“Dr. Bellamkonda is that person, and I look forward to working with him to help shape our strategic vision for the future of our university and its impact on Ohio, the nation and our world.”

As Ohio State’s provost, Bellamkonda will oversee a university-wide portfolio of programs and initiatives in the Office of Academic Affairs that support faculty and student success across the university’s campuses. The deans of all 15 academic colleges and University Libraries report to the provost, who also serves as a member of President’s Cabinet, which includes leaders of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and key administrative units, including the Office of Student Life; Office of Human Resources; Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge and more.

At Emory, Bellamkonda has launched and led several major initiatives, including faculty recruitment and retention efforts focused on arts and humanistic inquiry, as well as artificial intelligence in service to humanity across areas such as medicine, business, law and more. In addition, he helped lead the ambitious Student Flourishing initiative, which included curricular innovations as well as the Emory Purpose Project focused on well-being and ethics.

Prior to his tenure at Emory, Bellamkonda served as the Vinik Dean of the Pratt School of Engineering at Duke University. During his tenure, annual extramural research increased from $68 million to more than $100 million each year. He also helped launch two interdisciplinary institutes – the Duke Quantum Center and the Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies – and the Wilkinson Engineering Building was conceived, designed and built.

“I believe deeply in the noble mission of higher education and the excellence of higher education in the United States, especially its impact on research, shaping the future through the education of our students, and our responsibility to engagement in our communities,” Bellamkonda said. 

“I am excited to have the opportunity to serve The Ohio State University with its scale and reach. Ohio State is one of the great land-grant universities in our nation, and we are poised under President Carter’s leadership to excel in every part of our academic mission. My leadership philosophy is to relentlessly pursue excellence, and I am honored to join all of the incredible faculty, staff and students at Ohio State who make that their mission each day."

Trained as a bioengineer and neuroscientist, Bellamkonda also previously served as the Wallace H. Coulter Professor and chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering, and associate vice president for research, at Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University. He began his professional career at Case Western Reserve University, serving as an assistant and associate professor, as well as associate chair for graduate education.

Bellamkonda earned a PhD at Brown University and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Bellamkonda has a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Osmania University. He has won numerous honors from professional societies in biomedical engineering and biomaterials. He served as president of the American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering from 2014 to 2016.

Bellamkonda is an internationally renowned biomedical researcher, whose lab has invented novel approaches to treat pediatric and adult brain tumors.

In 2021, he received a National Institutes of Health Director’s Transformative Research Award for his work, supported by the National Cancer Institute. The tumor monorail device developed in his lab has been recognized as a breakthrough technology by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. He is the scientific founder of a startup, Exvade Bioscience, that is pioneering first-in-human trials for the tumor monorail device. Additionally, Bellamkonda is an elected Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science; International Academy of Medical and Biological Engineering; and Society for Biomaterials; as well as an elected senior member of the National Academy of Inventors. He has been awarded 11 U.S. patents.

“We are delighted to help bring someone of Dr. Bellamkonda’s considerable accomplishments and collegial spirit to Ohio State,” said John J. Warner, co-chair of the university’s search committee and the chief executive officer of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and executive vice president at Ohio State.

Comprising faculty, staff and students from across Ohio State, the committee was co-chaired by Janet Box-Steffensmeier, Distinguished University Professor, Vernal Riffe Professor of Political Science and professor of sociology in the College of Arts and Sciences.

“We are honored to have Dr. Bellamkonda join our faculty due to his outstanding academic achievements and visionary leadership,” said Box-Steffensmeier. “We are confident that his contributions will inspire and elevate the academic experiences of all our students, faculty and staff at Ohio State.”

Bellamkonda will succeed interim executive vice president and provost Karla Zadnik, who will continue to serve as interim dean of the College of Public Health while that dean search continues before returning to the College of Optometry as dean.

“Our deepest thanks go to Dr. Zadnik, who has provided critical insight and guidance, and will continue to do so throughout this transition,” Carter said. “She is a wonderful partner and colleague – and will work closely with Dr. Bellamkonda as part of our exceptional college leadership team.”

This new collaborative space features a peer-led tutoring center aiming to engage first- and second-year students enrolled in gateway STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) courses. The Oct. 2 ribbon cutting marked the completion of the first phase of space renovation in Ramseyer Hall.

The Amgen STEM Learning Center is the result of a $2 million investment supporting Ohio State’s colleges of Arts and Sciences and Engineering. The new learning center is an important milestone in the university’s partnership with Amgen, a leading biotechnology company with a growing presence in central Ohio. The gift bolsters Amgen’s significant commitment to workforce development in the university’s STEM fields, while also advancing the shared goal of building a talent pipeline for the state of Ohio.

“Amgen is proud to support The Ohio State University’s STEM Learning Center, which will play a crucial role in strengthening the educational foundations of students enrolled in gateway STEM courses. This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering innovation and diversity in the STEM fields, and we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on the students and the broader community,” said Sandra Rodriguez-Toledo, vice president of site operations for Amgen Ohio.

Nearly 100 guests, including Mike Duffey, chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education, attended the ribbon cutting. During the ceremony, Peter Mohler, executive vice president for research, innovation and knowledge at Ohio State, offered his thoughts on the partnership that has made this new interdisciplinary center possible.

“The continued strengthening of Amgen’s relationship with Ohio State is inspiring. Through interdisciplinary research and education, we are bringing together our collective knowledge and expertise to invest in the futures of our bright students and the biomanufacturing sector,” he said.

David Horn, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, also praised the partnership. “We are grateful for Amgen’s support. Together we will transform teaching in STEM disciplines and create new learning and engagement opportunities for students,” he said. “The new collaborative space and peer-led tutoring model will benefit students of all backgrounds who enter these fields and help create a diverse workforce to address tomorrow’s challenges in the Midwest and beyond.”

Amgen’s investment has helped fuel other impactful developments, serving as a catalyst for additional gifts that will fortify excellence in STEM education and workforce development within the college.

“This center will help our students not only succeed but prosper. We thank Amgen for their support and continued collaboration,” said Susan Olesik, dean of the division of natural and mathematical sciences, who led the effort to create the center. “We will work alongside Amgen to contribute to Ohio’s spectacular future in STEM innovation.”

“Safety is my top priority, and these recent incidents are extremely concerning. I have been in touch with the mayor’s office and have been assured of the city’s continued emphasis on safety in the neighborhoods around our campus,” said Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “Our police agencies are working together closely and will have a highly visible presence on and around campus as well as continue their targeted efforts to reduce crime.”   

On the evening of Wednesday, Sept. 18, the Columbus Division of Police (CPD) and University Police responded to a report of gunshots near 11th Avenue and High Street, for which CPD is the primary responding agency. Multiple Buckeye Alerts were issued that directed everyone on campus to shelter in place. The shelter in place was lifted around 7:30 p.m. Police do not believe that anyone was shot during this incident, which was an altercation between individuals who are not affiliated with Ohio State. 

On Monday, Sept. 16, a separate altercation between two unhoused individuals led to one being shot and transported to the Wexner Medical Center in stable condition. Multiple Buckeye Alerts – the university’s emergency notification system – and a Public Safety Notice informed the campus community of the situation and police arrested the suspect on Tuesday. 

“These recent incidents are tied to three main issues plaguing all major cities: mental health, addiction, and teenagers carrying firearms and committing violent crime,” said Monica Moll, associate vice president of Public Safety and interim chief of The Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD). “Gun violence remains a national problem and Ohio State and the City of Columbus are not alone.” 

Moll added that people without housing are more often the targets of violent crime than offenders. 

Ohio State continues to engage with appropriate partners, including the City of Columbus Office of Violence Prevention and the Community Shelter Board to not just respond to crime, but also address root causes. 

Police continue to patrol on and off-campus with a high-visibility presence. OSUPD has a strong working relationship with Columbus Police, including a joint patrol program which recently expanded to four full-time OSUPD officers working alongside CPD officers. In total, OSUPD has an authorized strength of 75 sworn police, an expansion from previous years. 

Ohio State’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) has a comprehensive approach that includes sworn police officers, supported by non-sworn security, lights, cameras and other technology and personnel. The Columbus campus has more than 5,000 fixed surveillance cameras that feed into a campus communications (9-1-1) center.  

Over the past few years, Ohio State has expanded safety resources, including the addition of mobile cameras, license plate readers, lights, security and an increased police presence. These initiatives have contributed to a decrease in crime over the past few years in the University District.  

Police presence will remain high as Ohio State football hosts Marshall this weekend. DPS partners with local, state and federal agencies to support a safe, fan-friendly environment. Off-campus, nearby neighborhoods are saturated with uniformed and non-uniformed personnel.  

Police remind everyone to be aware of their surroundings. Travel in groups or utilize public transportation such as CABS, CABS On Demand or Lyft Ride Smart. Lock doors and windows and report suspicious behavior to police. 

To access additional safety resources, please visit dps.osu.edu/resources.

The jobs done by microbes – bacteria, viruses, fungi and other single-cell organisms – enable all other species living by land, sea and air, and in our guts, to survive. Boosted by fast-paced technological advances in recent decades, scientists are learning more every day about microbial functions and how they can be put to use in protecting human health and the global environment. 

And yet, microbial research remains underrepresented in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – something the scientists say should change to accelerate progress toward meeting the objectives. 

Four faculty researchers at The Ohio State University are among the co-authors:

• Justin North, assistant professor of microbiology and the Ohio State lead of the Department of Energy’s Energy Earthshots Initiative aimed at achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050
• Devin Peterson, professor of food science and technology and faculty director of the Foods for Health research initiative investigating the effects of food and nutrition on human health
• Virginia Rich, associate professor of microbiology and co-director of the National Science Foundation-funded EMERGE Biology Integration Institute based at Ohio State, which organizes microbiome science conducted at the permafrost in northern Sweden
• Matthew Sullivan, professor of microbiology and civil, environmental and geodetic engineering and the founding director of Ohio State’s Center of Microbiome Science, which was established in 2020 and currently has over 130 investigators from 10 colleges 

The U.N. has outlined 17 Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs, to be addressed globally by developed and developing countries. Broadly, the U.N. describes the set of goals as an effort to end poverty and other deprivations while improving health and education, reducing inequality and spurring economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve oceans and forests.

Although microbial activity is fundamental to sustaining all life (by producing oxygen, as one example), the authors wrote, any mention of their role is largely absent across the hundreds of multilateral treaties and intergovernmental policy agreements of the U.N. 

In the review, the authors detail seven key pathways through which microbial research and technology can be used to reach the goals: nurturing health and addressing disease; food production and nutrition; clean energy production; synthesizing and recycling products; bioremediation; facilitating health ecosystems; and global biogeochemical cycles and climate change. 

“An ever-expanding field of research shows how different microbial groups perform different functions, and the effective management of microbial communities can provide solutions for improving various aspects of life, from human health to energy or food production,” they wrote. 

Part of microbes’ exclusion from the global goals could be a lack of public and political awareness of how important microoorganisms are, researchers say. While we are most familiar with the bacteria and viruses that make us sick, there are 1 trillion more species of microbes functioning in highly interconnected communities to process nutrients, initiate chemical reactions, consume gases and clean up waste – all functions that can be harnessed for an ever-growing list of practical uses that benefit the planet. 

Among the many examples outlined in the paper, the authors report on such microbe-based innovations as designing bacteria that can deliver toxins to tumors and employing living organisms to extract contaminants from soils, sediment and water. 

“Microbiomes impact everything,” Sullivan said. “And by its very nature, microbiome science is highly interdisciplinary – which gives us a head start in exploring the ways in which this research can be scaled up to the levels necessary to make a big impact. 

“We see improved understanding of microbial roles in an ecosystem context as critical to unleashing the power of microbes toward making sustainable bioproducts and protecting the planet. The scientific community is prepared to do the work, but the complexity of microbial lives, and the interdisciplinarity needed to solve those mysteries, challenges traditional disciplinary funding and academic structures. This broad scientific communication seeks to bring awareness to the opportunities.” 

The lead authors of the article are Laura van Galen and Thomas Crowther of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich and Rino Rappuoli of the Fondazione Biotecnopolo di Siena in Italy.

Chief among them is the awarding of $26 million in federal funding to jumpstart natural rubber production in the United States and enhance workforce development.

The funds come from the National Science Foundation to create the “Transformation of American Rubber through Domestic Innovation for Supply Security” (TARDISS) Engineering Research Center. The first round of funding lasts five years, with the ability to renew for $26 million more for five additional years.

TARDISS will be composed of academic partners and supported by industry stakeholders. The principal investigator is Judit Puskas, professor of food, agricultural and biological engineering (FABE), who will lead the center along with its director, Ajay Shah, also a professor in FABE.

The board also praised Puskas for being named a Distinguished University Professor – the highest faculty honor at Ohio State. Puskas joined the university’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences Wooster campus in 2019. A world-renowned polymer expert, her impact on her field and her students is broadly recognized.

The Distinguished University Professor honorific title is awarded annually to tenure-track professors who have been at Ohio State for at least five years and have demonstrated truly exceptional records in teaching, research, scholarly or creative work and service.

President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. celebrated the Robert F. Wolfe and Edgar T. Wolfe Foundation’s commitment of $10 million to the College of Veterinary Medicine in memory of the late Rita Wolfe. The generous gift establishes the Rita Jean Wolfe Deanship, which will help create a sustainable future of excellence in veterinary medicine.

The president also outlined a new initiative called Listen. Learn. Discuss. that offers a centralized set of tools to help the university community develop skills to engage in respectful dialogue and provides opportunities to practice those skills.

He noted that Ohio State received a record 80,000 applications for admission, and that the incoming class is expected to be one of the largest in university history.

“Strong enrollment like this shows that something special is happening here at Ohio State,” he said. “It shows that people believe in the value of an Ohio State degree; that that they believe in the quality experience we offer on all of our campuses; that they believe in the future of this institution.”

The following actions were taken during the full board meeting:

Resolutions in Memoriam approved

• James L. (Jim) Battersby, professor emeritus in the Department of English, who died on May 12, 2024, at age 87.
• Barbara Z. Kiefer, professor emerita in the Department of Teaching and Learning, College of Education and Human Ecology, who died on May 27, 2024, at age 78.
• Surinder K. Seghal, professor emeritus in the Department of Mathematics in the College of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, who died on Feb. 26, 2024, at age 83.
• George L. Smith, professor emeritus in the Department of Integrated Systems Engineering, who died on Feb. 12, 2024, at age 88.

Amendment to the bylaws of the Board of Trustees approved
The board approved an amendment to the bylaws of the Board of Trustees. The last revision took place on Feb. 21, 2024.

Personnel actions approved
Trustees approved the following appointments and extensions:

• Julia Applegate as senior lecturer (2024 Provost’s Award for Distinguished Teaching by a Lecturer) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Kent Barnett as dean and professor (J. Gilbert Reese Chair in Contract Law) in the Moritz College of Law for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Stephen Bell as professor (Ohio Eminent Scholar in Industrial Microbiology) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Eric Bielefeld as professor and chair (2024 President and Provost’s Award for Distinguished Faculty Service) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Trevor Brown as interim dean in the Fisher College of Business for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.
• Lisa Burris as associate professor (College of Engineering Innovation Scholar) in the College of Engineering for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Bryan Carstens as professor and chair (Robert W. and Estelle S. Bingham Designated Professorship) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2029.
• Angela Collene as senior lecturer (2024 Provost’s Award for Distinguished Teaching by a Lecturer) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Edward Cooper as professor-clinical (Wolfe Associates Inc. Endowed Professorship in Canine Clinical and Comparative Medicine) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Maryam Ghazisaeidi as professor (Distinguished Professor of Engineering) in the College of Engineering for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Philip Hart as professor-clinical (Endowed Professorship in Gastroenterology Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Elizabeth Hewitt as professor and chair (2024 President and Provost’s Award for Distinguished Faculty Service) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Christopher Jaroniec as professor (2024 President and Provost’s Award for Distinguished Faculty Service) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Maureen Kelleher as associate professor-clinical (Trueman Chair in Equine Clinical Medicine and Surgery) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Ryan Kennedy as professor (Andrei Baronov and Ratmir Timashev Endowed Chair in Data Analytics) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Katrina Lee as professor-clinical (2024 Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Russell Lonser as professor and chair (Sanford and Rife Family Chair in Neuro-Oncology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Jason Newland as professor (Henry G. Cramblett Chair in Medicine) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Jason Opal as dean and professor at The Ohio State University at Mansfield for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through Aug.14, 2029.
• Joe Raczkowski as associate professor-clinical (2024 Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Sunnie Rucker-Chang as associate professor (Kenneth E. Naylor Professorship) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Frances Sivakoff as assistant professor (2024 Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Matthew Smith as dean and professor at The Ohio State University at Newark for a term running from Aug. 1, 2024, through July 31, 2029.
• Dawn Starr as senior lecturer (2024 Provost’s Award for Distinguished Teaching by a Lecturer) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Mary Sterenberg as assistant professor-clinical (2024 Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Amy Tibbals as senior lecturer (2024 Provost’s Award for Distinguished Teaching by a Lecturer) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Bryan Warnick as professor and interim chair (The Daniel Tanner Foundation Endowed Professorship in Curriculum Studies on Adolescence and Democracy) in the College of Education and Human Ecology for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2029.
• Zach Woods as assistant professor-practice (2024 Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching) in the Office of Academic Affairs.
• Margaret Young as dean of The Ohio State University at Lima for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Ginger Breon as interim vice president and chief information officer in the Office of Academic Affairs for a term beginning Aug. 19, 2024.
• Damon Jaggars as vice provost and dean of University Libraries in the Office of Academic Affairs for a term running through June 30, 2027.
• Rustin Moore as dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine in the Office of Academic Affairs for a term running through June 30, 2027.

Reappointments for the following:

• Greg Allenby as professor (Helen C. Kurtz Chair in Marketing) in the Fisher College of Business for a term running from Oct. 1, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2029.
• Sharyn Baker as professor (Gertrude Parker Heer Chair in Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Prosper Boyaka as professor and chair (Stanton Youngberg Professorship of Veterinary Medicine) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Teresa Burns as associate professor (Bud and Marilyn Jenne Designated Professorship in Equine Clinical Sciences and Research) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Osvaldo Campanella as professor (Carl E. Haas Chair in Food Industries) in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences for a term running from June 1, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Ralph Augostini as professor-clinical (Bob Frick Chair in Cardiac Electrophysiology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Daniel Clinchot as professor and chair (Harry C. and Mary Elizabeth Powelson Professorship in Medicine) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through Feb. 28, 2025.
• Roger Fingland as professor (Frank Stanton Endowed Chair in General Practice and Canine Health and Wellness) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from June 1, 2024, through May 30, 2029.
• Christopher Hoch as associate professor (The Endowed Chair for Director of The Ohio State University Marching Band) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Mark Landon as professor and chair (Richard L. Meiling Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027.
• Cheryl Lee as professor and chair (Dorothy M. Davis Chair in Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Peter Mansoor as professor (Major General Raymond E. Mason, Jr. Chair of Military History) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2029.
• Sayoko Moroi as professor and chair (William H. Havener, M.D. Chair in Ophthalmology Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from Jan. 5, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Andrew Niehaus as professor-clinical (Vernon L. Tharp Professorship in Food Animal Medicine) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Timothy Pawlik as professor and chair (Urban Meyer III and Shelley Meyer Chair for Cancer Research) in the College of Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Laura Selmic as professor (Teckie and Don Shackelford Chair in Canine Medicine) in the College of Veterinary Medicine for a term running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
• Ori Yehudai as associate professor (Saul and Sonia Schottenstein Chair in Israel Studies) in the College of Arts and Sciences for a term running from Aug. 15, 2024, through June 30, 2029.

The extensions of appointments for the following:

• Eric Anderman as interim dean and director of The Ohio State University at Mansfield for a term running from July 1, 2024, through Aug. 14, 2024.
• William Macdonald as dean and director of The Ohio State University at Newark for a term running from July 1, 2024, through July 31, 2024.
• Greg Rose as dean and director of The Ohio State University at Marion for a term running from July 1, 2024, through Dec. 31, 2024.

Amendments to the contracts of the following athletics coaches:

• Football coach Ryan Day, updated bonus structure based on the new playoff format.
• Women’s basketball coach Kevin McGuff, annual merit increase and two-year extension.

The following for President Carter:

• A performance review for fiscal year 2024 and compensation reward and salary adjustment of 3.5%.
• The issuing of performance goals for fiscal year 2025.

Capital investment plan for fiscal year 2025 approved
The board approved the capital investment plan for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

Ohio State Energy Partners utility system capital improvements plan for fiscal year 2025 approved
The board approved the Ohio State Energy Partners utility system capital improvements plan for fiscal year 2025.

Professional services and construction contracts approved
The board authorized the university to enter into or increase professional service and construction contracts for the following projects:

• Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute fire and HVAC system renewal
  Professional services totaling $1.8 million, to be paid for with university funds.
• Ohio State University Airport capital improvements
  Professional services and construction totaling $7.9 million, to be paid for with university debt and partner funds.
• College Road rebuild
  Professional services and construction totaling $5.5 million, to be paid for with university debt.
• Rhodes Hall third floor lab expansion
  Professional services and construction totaling $4.7 million, to be paid for with auxiliary funds.
• Riffe second floor classrooms
  Professional services and construction totaling $3 million, to be paid for with university funds.
• Tunnel rehabilitation phase one
  Professional services and construction totaling $31.2 million, to be paid for with university funds, university debt, state funds and partner funds.

Real property acquisition approved
The board approved the purchase of 4.16 acres at 1165 Kinnear Road. Ohio State has leased the property since 2006.

Amendment to the university’s investment policy approved
Trustees approved an amendment to the university’s investment policy to clarify that certain gifts may be added to the economic development fund.

University Foundation report approved
The board approved the report as of June 30, 2024, which includes the pre-approval of one  endowed deanship: The Rita Jean Wolfe Deanship in the College of Veterinary Medicine; the establishment of one designated professorship: The NetJets Designated Professor of Aviation; one endowed fellowship: the William G. and Ernestine R. Lowrie Endowed Chemical Engineering Fellowship; 13 scholarships as part of the Scarlet and Gray Advantage Endowed Matching Gift Program; 14 additional named endowed funds; and the revision of 16 named endowed funds.

Naming of internal spaces
Trustees approved the following namings:

• The classroom studio (Room N300) in the Timashev Family Music Building, located at 1900 College Road, as the Dr. Donald E. and Ruth L. McGinnis Music Collaboratory.
• Internal spaces in the Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Center located at 1645 Neil Ave. as:
  • Generous gift from The Balaloski Family (Room 435)
  • Generous gift from Steven Suh MD ’94 & Daphne Yu Suh ’95 honoring Dr. Sang & Jung Suh and Drs. Edward & Imelda Yu (Room 025F)
• Internal spaces in the Engineering Education and Manufacturing Center at The Ohio State University at Lima, located at 1155 Bible Road, as:
  •  Cenovus Energy Lima Refinery Rotunda
  • Honda Robotics Lab (108)
  • Rudolph Foods Company Conference Room (202)

“You may not know this, but crumbs are dangerous in space, so we don’t bring things like crackers,” said Robyn Gatens, director of the International Space Station for NASA. “Crumbs might get in someone’s eye as they float around and that’s a hazard.”

Gatens was the keynote speaker at the Deep Space Food Symposium held at The Ohio State University last week. She was joined by a full day’s worth of speakers including Christian Lange from the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), NASA colleague G. Michael Green and John Horack, the Neil Armstrong Chair in Aerospace Technology at Ohio State.

Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. opened the symposium, highlighting what became a theme for the day: collaboration toward a greater goal.

“This is a special gathering for a special topic, a special mission,” Carter said. “… There’s a lot of excitement here. This is where academia, industry, government all come together to solve some of the biggest challenges we think about [for] deep space exploration.”

In addition to panels, the day also featured the announcement of the American winner of the CSA and NASA’s Deep Space Food Challenge. The challenge invited teams around the country to submit proposals for “novel and game-changing food technologies or systems that require minimal inputs and maximize safe, nutritious and palatable food outputs for long-duration space missions, and which have potential to benefit people on Earth.”

Food, Gatens said, is a vital resource for astronauts. Not just for nutrition, though.

“If you think about the social and psychological role that food plays in your life – a gathering of friends and family for dinner, celebrating holidays and breaking bread, spending time together – there’s comfort in having your favorite food and beverages when you’re away from home,” she said. “And that’s no different for our astronauts in space on long-duration missions.”

Interstellar Lab, a Floridian team, won the top prize with its modular, bioregenerative system for producing fresh microgreens, vegetables, mushrooms and insects.

Green, chief of staff for the Space Technology Mission Directorate at NASA, highlighted the importance of challenges in finding solutions to complex problems, calling them “the best starting point” for students and professors. Academia has a large role to play, Green added.

“So many times it is important to partner with our friends in academia to look at a tough problem that maybe we don’t know how to solve,” he said.

Gatens agreed.

“The partnership here at Ohio State has been really important for this challenge.”

Audience members listened to the speakers with rapt attention. While attendees were mostly graduate students, faculty and contractors, two stood out: 12-year-old Molly Pease and her mother, Colette.

After seeing “Apollo 13” for the first time last year, Molly admitted to being “obsessed” with space. Her mother came across the symposium and noted that it was open to the public.

“We were just at the NASA booth and totally geeked out,” she said. “You just say, ‘NASA,’ and the cool factor exponentially increased. It felt like the chance of a lifetime for her to see the director of the International Space Station.”

“Looking at 18th-century manuscripts isn’t easy,” she said.

Despite some unfamiliarity with script handwriting, Newell’s students persevered and gained valuable research experience during the four-week lab. In its second year, the lab is funded by a grant from the Mellon Foundation. Over three years, Newell’s team, including faculty from Case Western Reserve University and the University of Victoria, who earned their PhDs at Ohio State, will receive $493,000 to research African and Native American citizenship.

“The grant is under a rubric of civic engagement and higher learning,” Newell said. “So, I think Mellon expected applications about the modern Civil Rights Movement, but we surprised them by pitching and asking questions about this instead.”

Newell’s research focuses on the years between 1780 and 1920.

“We’re seeking ways to get at these questions: What’s going on with Native Americans and African Americans in terms of voting, in terms of citizenship, in terms of other expressions of community and belonging – the founding of schools and land ownership rights advocacy, access to public ‘goods’ like parks and streetcars, and the creation of independent political organizations?” she said. “Native Americans had to decide at different times and places whether the benefits of U.S. citizenship outweighed the loss of sovereignty and citizenship within their tribal nation.”

In the first year, Newell’s team worked locally and primarily with digital resources. For the second year, she and co-researchers Noël Voltz, John Bickers and Niiyokamigaabaw Deondre Smiles wanted the students to experience more fieldwork. The lab has traveled to different parts of Ohio, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and met with descendants of people who were removed from land they owned, as well as the descendants of people who were able to stay.

“We’re interested in both: the communities that persist and the communities that don’t,” she said. “What are some of the factors that cause these communities to disappear? Do people move voluntarily, were they subject to the race massacres we know were happening in different parts of Ohio, Indiana and Illinois before and after the Civil War?”

Interviewing subjects in person, sometimes on their original land, was a first for many of Newell’s students.

“Talking to these descendant communities has been particularly moving,” she said. “The idea that we can assist in telling their stories is interesting to students.”

Students leave the lab with extensive research skills that are useful not only in academic settings but professional ones, Newell said.

“It’s an employable skill,” she said. “I have this question; how do I answer it? What sorts of things can I look at? … It’s being a detective. It’s being creative. It’s thinking about what might help me answer these questions.”

In fact, Newell’s lab has become a model for research practices.

“The National Park Service is interested in what we’re doing,” she said. “They want to send their scholars and researchers to the lab. They’re interested in helping smaller historical sites get recognition. … We’re talking about workshops and not just for higher ed but for people in this profession, broadly, of researching, interpreting and sharing American history.”

This kind of lab-based research is just as valuable to the humanities as it is to STEM fields, Newell said.

“Labs are where research occurs,” she said. “And history is a research-based discipline. We’re not making things up. We’re not going over the same ground. We’re trying to ask questions that haven’t been asked before or answer questions that people may think can’t be answered.” 

For Newell, the question she and her students circle back to is “What is the purpose of the humanities?”

“Is it to reaffirm what we already know or is it to break new ground?” she said. “We think there’s plenty of new ground to be broken and stories to incorporate into the larger history of the United States.”

The event was held July 25-26 at the Fawcett Center on the Columbus campus.  

“Part of both Ohio State’s land-grant mission as well as the new strategic vision that the Kirwan Institute launched in September was really around being collaborative conveners,” said Kirwan Institute Executive Director Ange-Marie Hancock. “When we say collaborative, what we really mean by that is that we partner with community organizations, but also that we partner with members in the community who are doing things right that deserve extra support or deserve extra attention.”

The AABH Conference featured topics ranging from how families of children with special needs can receive support and learn to advocate for themselves; addressing Alzheimer’s disease and promoting brain health; and understanding the health challenges, needs and barriers for communities of color in Appalachia.

The conference also included a keynote address by Barbara Jones Warren, a clinical professor in Ohio State’s College of Nursing, on how women can build resilience; a panel discussion on how to reduce the suicide rate among African American youth; and breakout sessions with doctors, social workers and other clinicians.

“We know social workers, school psychologists, all of those folks are out there doing tremendous work and providing tremendous value to our community,” Hancock said. “We wanted to make sure they’re properly tooled up, they’re properly supported, with all of the best and latest research.”

The conference was presented by the Kirwan Institute in partnership with Ohio State’s Office of Outreach and Engagement and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

“It’s through these kinds of deep partnerships that our Kirwan Institute is leading that we’re best positioned to benefit those we serve,” said Wendy Smooth, Ohio State’s senior vice provost for inclusive excellence. “Today’s focus on the mental well-being of African Americans certainly calls us into our purpose as an institution that is responsible for marshaling our resources and our research to enrich the lives of Ohioans.”

In the Alzheimer’s disease session, Ohio State neuropsychologist Jeremy Grant discussed risk factors such as physical inactivity, smoking, alcohol abuse, hypertension and diabetes. Research has shown that these and other risk factors can be mitigated by getting enough sleep, limiting exposure to nicotine and alcohol, exercising and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, Grant said.

Maintaining an active social circle and engaging in activities that stimulate the brain, such as crossword puzzles and learning a foreign language, can also help reduce the risk of developing the disease, he said.

“Never stop learning,” Grant said. “Never stop challenging your brain.”

The panel on how to reduce the suicide rate among African American youth featured a discussion with Kamaria Tyehimba, vice president of behavioral health at Talbert House, an agency that promotes family health in the Cincinnati area; Linda Gallagher, Hamilton County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board vice president; and Ryan Hill and Sevin Adams, youths who spoke about how they’ve helped their peers address mental health issues.

Tyehimba and Gallagher said their agencies have formed a regional coalition with community organizations and churches to provide information to individuals and families in need of substance abuse and mental health treatment.

“If someone needed services, to be admitted to a treatment program, we wanted them to be able to know how to talk to that service provider, to have a welcoming atmosphere,” Tyehimba said. “We wanted to destigmatize the whole concept around getting treatment.”

Hill and Adams offered suggestions on how parents, school officials, community members and peer groups can provide support to youth who experience depression or suicidal ideation.

Hill shared an anecdote about running into a high school classmate after graduation. The classmate told Hill that he had experienced bullying in school, and Hill’s friendship prevented him from committing suicide.

“Just being someone’s friend” made a difference, Hill said. “You never know what kindness can do.”

“Lee is an exceptional constitutional scholar with a wealth of administrative experience, and we are excited that he will join the university to stand up and lead the new Salmon P. Chase Center,” said Karla Zadnik, interim executive vice president and provost. “Our shared goal is for the center to become a national leader in teaching, research and engagement on U.S. civics, culture and society.” 

Initiated in 2023 by the state of Ohio, the Salmon P. Chase Center will be an academic home at Ohio State for teaching and researching the foundation of the American constitutional order and its impact on society. As executive director, Strang will be responsible for organizing the center, overseeing the hiring and appointment of the center’s faculty, developing curriculum and delivering academic programming.  

“Ohio State’s land-grant mission, exemplified by its motto Education for Citizenship, arose at a time in American history when our nation turned to higher education to bring together a divided America through civic education. Today, the Salmon P. Chase Center will carry forward that historic mission through its courses, scholarship and programming, and become the national leader in civic thought and leadership. I am excited to develop the reputation of the Salmon P. Chase Center into one of national excellence,” Strang said. 

When it is fully operational, the center will have at least 15 tenure-track faculty members and provide a variety of innovative educational and collaboration opportunities for students and faculty from across the university. The center will be an independent academic center physically housed in the John Glenn College of Public Affairs. 

“Professor Strang is the right leader for the Chase Center. He is a nationally recognized constitutional scholar dedicated to supporting open dialogue and diverse viewpoints about American history, culture and politics,” said Trevor Brown, dean of the Glenn College. 

Strang is a prolific scholar who has published dozens of articles in leading journals in the fields of constitutional law and interpretation, property law, religion and the First Amendment. Strang co-authored the textbook Federal Constitutional Law, and his most recent book, Originalism’s Promise: A Natural Law Account of the American Constitution, is the first book-length natural law justification for originalism.

“Professor Strang engages with some of the most important and profound matters of public concern in a serious, open-minded and rigorous way,” summarized Darrell A.H. Miller, professor at the University of Chicago Law School. “He is a perfect choice to lead the center."

Prior to teaching, Strang served as a judicial clerk for Judge Alice M. Batchelder of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. He was also an associate for Jenner & Block LLP in Chicago, where he practiced in general and appellate litigation. Strang has also been a visiting scholar at the Georgetown Center for the Constitution and a visiting fellow at the James Madison Program at Princeton University. A graduate of the University of Iowa, he was articles editor of the Iowa Law Review and a member of Order of the Coif. He also holds an LL.M. degree from Harvard Law School.  

The Chase Center academic council led the nationwide search for the executive director. The academic council members are scholars with national reputations for academic excellence and come from Ohio and universities across the nation.

“Through his prodigious scholarship, pedagogy of civility and experience at similar centers, Strang has shown a deep commitment to and understanding of the American civic tradition,” said Jean Yarbrough, a member of the academic council and professor at Bowdoin University. “Under his leadership, the Chase Center is poised to become one of our country’s leading centers for civic education and leadership.”

Approximately 1,600 degrees will be awarded at the Aug. 4 ceremony at the Schottenstein Center. The ceremony begins at 2 p.m. and will last approximately 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Tickets are not required for guests.

“Throughout his career, Dr. Fletcher has been a dedicated mentor, dynamic writer, passionate educator and researcher who epitomizes the passion all Buckeyes have for finding solutions the world needs,” said President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “I know he will help elevate this special day for our graduates and their loved ones, making it memorable and meaningful. We couldn’t be more excited that he will be speaking during summer commencement.”

Fletcher began his academic career working for four years in a medical school neurophysiology laboratory. It was during this time that Fletcher says he learned that the brain functions less like a computer that processes data and is more driven by emotion and story.

Fletcher changed his academic focus and went on to earn a Ph.D. in literature from Yale University. He has since worked with numerous companies, including animation studio Pixar, on how narrative storytelling and creative technology stem from the same areas in the brain. 

Before joining Ohio State, Fletcher previously taught at Stanford University, the University of Southern California and Yale. He also works with Ohio State’s Max M. Fisher College of Business and other business schools around the country, helping students train the brain’s creativity centers.

In 2021, Fletcher began working with the U.S. Army’s Command and General Staff College, training special operations personnel in leadership and decision-making skills. In 2023, he was awarded the Army’s Public Service Commendation Medal (PSCM) for his work.

The PSCM is the fourth-highest public service decoration that the Army can bestow upon a civilian. The PSCM is awarded for distinguished service or achievements that contribute to the accomplishment of an Army mission. 

Lal, a Distinguished University Professor at Ohio State’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) and the founding director of the CFAES Rattan Lal Center for Carbon Management and Sequestration, was also recently named the No. 1 scientist in the world and the United States in the field of plant sciences and agronomy by Research.com.

Lal was chosen for his pioneering work in promoting a soil-centric approach to agriculture that has been recognized as a model for secure food systems that can be adapted worldwide. His innovative approaches have proven successful across various climates and geographies, demonstrating the benefits of sustainable agriculture to communities, economies and the planet, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation said in announcing the award.

“The entire Buckeye community congratulates Dr. Lal on receiving this incredible honor and thanks him for his passionate work on global food security and solutions for our agricultural ecosystems,” said Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “As a scientist, mentor and educator, Dr. Lal is an inspiring example that one person with vision and determination can change the world.”

Much of Lal’s work has focused on carbon sequestration in agriculture and removing atmospheric carbon for the long term, mitigating the effects of global warming and pollution. In 2000, he established the Ohio State carbon center, the longest-running U.S. institution with a focus on carbon sequestration in both natural and managed terrestrial ecosystems, particularly soils.

He pioneered a soil-centric approach that harmonizes food production with ecological preservation and climate change mitigation. His methodologies have highlighted, on a global stage, the interconnectedness of soil health and broader environmental and human well-being, and the importance of enhancing food security while conserving natural resources.

“Dr. Lal’s accomplishments in influencing sustainable agricultural practices around the world have brought about a paradigm shift in sustainable soil management and acclaim to our university,” said Cathann A. Kress, Ohio State vice president for agricultural administration and dean of CFAES. “We are honored that he is a part of our college and enormously proud of his incredible achievements.

“Dr. Lal is the land-grant mission of Ohio State personified,” said Peter J. Mohler, executive vice president for research, innovation and knowledge. “While rooted in soil health, his groundbreaking work translates into solutions for some of the most important global challenges we face in food security.”    

Lal’s journey, from his humble early days on a small subsistence farm in northern India watching his family use oxen to plow hard soils to becoming one of the most cited scientists in plant science and agronomy, exemplifies the power of his resilience and intellectual pursuit. His work has led to more sustainable farming and greater access to nutritious food for 2 billion people across five continents.

His dedication has earned him numerous global awards, such as the Japan Prize (2019), World Food Prize (2020), Padma Shri award (2021), and Plant Science and Agronomy Leader Award (2024), among others.

Upon receiving news of winning the Gulbenkian Prize, Lal expressed his astonishment and gratitude: “It came as a surprise. I thought it was a prank call – so I ignored it. Then they said, ‘Can we talk to you on Zoom?’ and I realized that it was real,” he said.

Reflecting on the significance of this recognition, he added: “It’s a tremendous award for humanity. It’s an incredible honor that an organization would recognize my service to humanity at large – something beyond my imagination.”

Lal has decided to donate his share of the prize money – $350,000 – to Ohio State, noting Ohio State’s role in his career successes.

“When I first arrived at Ohio State in 1965, my adviser inquired if I had considered any other universities worldwide,” he said. “However, my professors at Punjab University, who had obtained their PhDs from Ohio State, influenced my decision.

“I expressed to them that my aspiration was to attend Ohio State. Being associated with one of the largest land-grant universities has brought me great prestige and honor. I offer my sincere thanks to all the staff, students, scholars and researchers of the Lal Carbon Center for their dedication and hard work, and to the CFAES School of Environment and Natural Resources, CFAES and Ohio State for their cooperation and support.”

Lal’s donation aims to foster scholarly exchange between Ohio State and international institutions in India initially before expanding globally.

Lal shares the 2024 prize with Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (India) and the SEKEM initiative (Egypt).

Adam Berinsky, the Mitsui Professor of Political Science at MIT, opened the meeting Monday night with a lecture about misinformation – and ways to combat it. He has studied the problem in the context of politics, but the work is easily adapted to virology in an age of heightened anti-science sentiment and lack of trust in experts of all kinds. 

ASV President Anne Moscona, who selected the keynote speaker, urged audience members to consider working alongside Berinsky to address misinformation that casts doubt on scientific evidence, which she called “a problem so worrisome to our community.” 

Ohio State expertise 

Shan-Lu Liu, a virology professor at Ohio State and co-director of the Viruses and Emerging Pathogens Program of the Infectious Diseases Institute, chaired the meeting’s organizing committee. Liu, a longtime HIV researcher who more recently has led numerous studies of SARS-CoV-2 variants’ immune evasion, transmissibility and infectivity, has been named president-elect of ASV at this year’s meeting and will become president of the society in 2025. 

The conference blends symposium presentations by leaders in a range of virology disciplines with poster sessions and dozens of trainee workshops on science, career development and communication. 

Linda Saif, Distinguished University Professor in Ohio State’s Center for Food Animal Health with faculty appointments in animal sciences and veterinary preventive medicine, opened Wednesday morning’s symposium with detailed documentation of coronaviruses’ ability to spill over from animals to humans – which has been happening for centuries. An international expert on coronaviruses, Saif described the wily strains as diverse infectious agents that are skilled at accommodating change thanks their large RNA genome. 

Like the coronavirus that leapt from wild animals to cattle and from cattle to poultry that Saif’s lab was the first to document in 1995, the virus that causes COVID-19 is known to infect mink, hamsters, cats and white-tailed deer. She’s among a team of researchers who found that white-tailed deer were infected by humans with SARS-CoV-2 across Ohio and that the animals function as reservoirs promoting ongoing viral mutation. 

“If we end up with a wildlife reservoir, will it persist, adapt and mutate in wildlife with new variants going back to humans, livestock or other animals?” Saif said. “The concern is, will we end up with a scenario with SARS-CoV-2 where we have two-way transmission to wildlife species and back into humans?” 

The World Health Organization has predicted the next pandemic will be caused by what it calls “Disease X” – and some coronaviruses currently circulating in animals are potential candidates, she said. 

The studies detecting SARS-CoV-2 in Ohio deer were co-led by Andrew Bowman, professor of veterinary preventive medicine at Ohio State, who presented an update on that research program at the meeting. Bowman has also led influenza surveillance at the swine-human interface in commercial settings and agricultural fairs for years, and recently made news by finding H5N1 (bird flu) viral RNA in over a third of commercial milk products he and a graduate student bought in the Midwest based on a hunch that viruses detected in dairy cows were making their way to grocery stores. 

The annual conference presents “an important opportunity to educate the public about virology research,” said Liu, also associate director of the Center for Retrovirus Research and professor of veterinary biosciences. “And we expect that attendees will also benefit from Adam Berinsky’s insights about the general phenomenon of misinformation.” 

Fighting misinformation 

Misinformation that circulated during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown – conspiracy theories that the illness’ severity was exaggerated or that the virus was deliberately released for sinister reasons – persists to this day. Berinsky, who has extensively studied Americans’ beliefs in false political rumors (such as claims Barack Obama wasn’t born in the United States), has found that rumors are “sticky” – countering them is not just about sharing the facts, but requires a messenger that people will be willing to trust. 

His research has found that about 70% of people will endorse at least one false rumor when given a list to choose from and only 30% of people reject them all, and that misinformation correction should focus primarily on reaching the undecideds – people who aren’t sure about what’s true. His work has also shown that correcting misinformation is not a “one-and-done” endeavor – it requires repeated messaging as well as a series of strategies targeting people who share fake information online. 

Working with Facebook and Google, Berinsky and colleagues advanced interventions encouraging people through “accuracy nudges” to think before they share information – advising users to evaluate information before sharing it and investigate its sources – or even asking them how important it is to them to share only accurate information. 

“Most people don’t want to share bad information,” he said. “We want to remind them of this.” 

They found in experiments that at the individual level, these nudges turned the knob toward more sharing of true information. Though the prompts won’t stop people who are posting lies maliciously, the added “friction” makes it a little more difficult for casual users to do an easy thing that has negative effects. 

A megastudy of nine interventions designed to reduce online sharing of misinformation revealed that all of them work – but each one’s effect is relatively small, on the order of 2 to 3 percentage points. Hence, the frame of mind in combating misinformation should not be a search for a single solution, but deployment of the best bundle of solutions depending on the context. 

“There’s been this long search for a magic bullet. It doesn’t exist,” Berinsky said. “But don’t give up on the enterprise.”

In his new role, Barnett will be responsible for advancing the college’s reputation as a top-tier law school, furthering its student-focused philosophy and innovative scholarship, and setting strategic priorities to prepare graduates to address emerging opportunities and challenges in a quickly changing world.

“In addition to his administrative and scholarly experience, Kent brings a deep, strategic focus on reducing student debt and fostering access and affordability for law students from all backgrounds,” said Karla Zadnik, interim executive vice president and provost.

As associate dean at UGA, Barnett oversees the highly ranked School of Law’s academic programs and student affairs. An ardent supporter of accessible and affordable public education, Barnett also manages the school’s new-student orientation and teaches in the pre-orientation academic success program designed to introduce all students, regardless of background, to law school pedagogy and professional norms. Prior to joining UGA in 2012, Barnett was a visiting assistant professor of law at the University of Kentucky.

“The Moritz College of Law has an established track record of serving the state and nation through its experiential programs, excellent preparation of lawyers and its ability to improve social mobility for Ohio citizens,” said Barnett. “I look forward to building on this legacy.”

As a legal scholar, Kent coauthored the textbook Administrative Law, Fifth Edition, and has appeared in numerous academic publications, including the Michigan, New York University, Duke, and Vanderbilt law reviews. Moreover, he has been cited by numerous federal courts and national media outlets, including Bloomberg Law, The New York Times, Reuters, and The Wall Street Journal. He has taught courses on administrative and consumer law, contracts and sales, and judges and politics, and he has been recognized for his commitment to teaching excellence by receiving the UGA School of Law’s highest teaching honor.

A Kentucky native, Barnett earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Kentucky College of Law and his Bachelor of Arts in art history from Centre College, both summa cum laude. Prior to joining the UGA School of Law faculty in 2012, Kent was a lawyer at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP and Heygood, Orr & Pearson. He also served as a law clerk for Judge John M. Rogers of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

Founded in 1891 and consistently the top-ranked law school in Ohio, the Moritz College of Law is known for its rigorous academic programs, devotion to student success, the pioneering research of its world-class faculty and deep commitment to teaching, professional training and the development of future leaders.

The college’s more than 11,000 graduates include federal judges, U.S. senators and representatives, governors, attorneys general, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, law professors, members of all levels of the state court system and prominent attorneys in various legal fields.

“Moritz is a jewel in Ohio State’s crown because of the university’s longstanding support and the community’s deep engagement,” said Barnett. “Its dedicated students, alumni, faculty, staff and university administration have a shared vision of a world-class public law school — one whose graduates have limitless opportunities.”

“I am grateful to the members of the search advisory committee, chaired by Trevor Brown, dean of the John Glenn College of Public Affairs, for their counsel and dedication to finding our next dean,” said Zadnik. “I also extend my deep appreciation to L. Camille Hébert, the Robert J. Lynn Chair in Law, for her service as acting dean of Moritz College of Law.”

With his appointment, Smith will spearhead efforts at Ohio State Newark to align campus priorities and further strengthen the university’s commitment to student success, innovation in teaching and learning, research opportunities, and community engagement.  

“Matt is not only an exceptional scholar and leader, but as a first-generation college graduate, he deeply believes in the transformative power of higher education,” said Ryan Schmiesing, senior vice provost for external engagement. “I look forward to his collaboration and leadership as our regional campuses continue to expand access and affordability, ensuring that future generations of Buckeyes can realize their potential.” 

In his deanship at Radford, Smith leads the university’s largest college, which includes about 120 full-time faculty and up to 2,200 students. The college includes a school, eight departments, four interdisciplinary programs and Army ROTC.  

Prior to joining Radford in 2018, Smith held leadership and faculty roles at Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. He served in various leadership roles at Wittenberg, including as Department of Communication chair, co-director of communication and business leadership experience, and director of cinema studies.   

“I am so impressed with the work being done at Ohio State Newark and the commitment that I have seen [Ohio State] President [Walter “Ted”] Carter Jr. and his team express in re-prioritizing the regional campuses as an essential part of the university’s overall mission,” said Smith. “I’m excited to be a part of a team of regional deans carrying forward Ohio State’s land-grant mission in coordination with one another and with leadership in Columbus.” 

Significant growth and development in Licking County, including a new Intel facility and the expansion of Meta and Google facilities, is creating new opportunities for Ohio State Newark. The SciDome, established through an exceptional public/private partnership between Ohio State Newark and The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology, is open to The Works’ guests, school tours and Ohio State Newark classes and programming. The campus is also home to the university’s Newark Earthworks Center. This interdisciplinary academic center holds a unique opportunity to promote scholarly engagement and research about Ohio’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks. 

More than 1,500 first-year Ohio State students start their academic journeys on a regional campus. Students can complete the first one to three years of any of Ohio State’s 200-plus majors on the Newark campus before transitioning to the Columbus campus to complete their degree. Eight majors can be completed at Ohio State Newark. 

“I’ve lived in or near Ohio for most of my life, and no other institution that I have seen is held in such high regard by its community or has demonstrated as much of a commitment to giving back to its community,” said Smith. “I am eager to get to know our long-term community partners and explore how we may welcome new partners into the fold.”  

A native of Wheeling, W.Va., Smith earned his PhD in interpersonal communication and his Master of Arts in English from Ohio University, and his Bachelor of Arts in English from West Liberty State College. As a scholar, he has published 12 books and co-edits an ongoing international book series.  

“We are grateful to Bill MacDonald, outgoing dean and director of the Newark campus, for his remarkable two decades of leadership,” said Karla Zadnik, interim executive vice president and provost. “We also extend our deep appreciation for the counsel of the search advisory committee, chaired by Patrick Louchouarn, senior vice provost for faculty.”  

At Ohio State Mansfield, Opal will lead efforts to extend and amplify the university’s commitment to student success, innovation in teaching and learning, research opportunities and community engagement. 

“Jason is an experienced leader who is passionate about improving the student experience,” said Ryan J. Schmiesing, senior vice provost for external engagement. “I look forward to collaborating with him as our regional campuses continue to engage with stakeholders across the state to identify opportunities, enhance student outcomes and fulfill workforce needs.” 

In addition to his scholarship, Opal will bring extensive administrative experience to the Mansfield campus. In his role as associate dean at McGill, he is responsible for overseeing graduate programs and improving the student experience for McGill’s largest academic unit. Before joining the dean’s office, Opal served as chair of the Department of History and Classics, the largest department in the Faculty of Arts. Before joining McGill in 2009, he was an assistant professor at Colby College in Waterville, Maine.  

“The Mansfield campus combines all the good things of a small campus with all the benefits and resources of a powerhouse university,” said Opal. “That’s a rare combination, and I wanted to be a part of it.” 

Ohio State Mansfield is a thriving model for sustainability, experiential education, and hands-on research. The campus has a 20-acre sugar bush for maple syrup production; vernal pools, pine plantations, wetlands and stream heads; and an EcoLab in collaboration with the School of Environment and Natural Resources.  

More than 1,500 first-year Ohio State students start their academic journeys on a regional campus. Students can complete the first one to three years of any of Ohio State’s 200-plus majors on the Mansfield campus before transitioning to the Columbus campus to complete their degree. Twelve majors can be completed at Ohio State Mansfield. 

Opal also looks forward to being part of the Mansfield community and serving in Ohio State Mansfield’s smaller-campus environment, known for its strong faculty-student connections and holistic student support. 

“My first teaching job was at such a campus, and I love the creative interactions and supportive feel that those kinds of schools can provide,” said Opal. “The faculty and staff at Mansfield are passionate about their students, their writing and their projects. My goal will be to share that enthusiasm and to enable the faculty, staff and students to flourish.” 

Opal earned his bachelor’s degree from Cornell University and his master’s and doctoral degrees from Brandeis University. He has published or edited three books, written numerous scholarly articles and chapters, and been tapped by American, Canadian and French radio and TV networks to provide historical clarity to pressing issues.  

“We are grateful for all who supported the search, including the search advisory committee, chaired by David Horn, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences,” said Karla Zadnik, interim executive vice president and provost. “We are also especially appreciative of Eric Anderman and his dedicated service as interim dean and director of Ohio State Mansfield over the past two years.”  

“Sport is a great context to learn about these other life leadership things that we know go into jobs, go into relationships, go into families,” she said.

Many people choose to coach sports because they want to help student-athletes learn these lessons, Bates said. Unfortunately, many feel they do not have the resources to do the job well.

Over the last three years, the Coach Beyond program has sought to provide those resources. Through a partnership between the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OSHAA) and Ohio State’s LiFEsports Initiative, Coach Beyond has trained more than 15,000 coaches across the state in positive youth development practices with an emphasis on how to support student mental health.  

Those coaches are part of an effort by the Susan Crown Exchange, which funded Coach Beyond, to train 1 million coaches by 2025. Bates said including OSHAA and area athletic directors and coaches in the process is part of what sets Coach Beyond apart.

“The collaborative structure has been amazing,” Bates said. “You have academic researchers, athletic directors and coaches who handle the day-to-day, and then OSHAA, and we’re all sitting around the table and asking, ‘What are we seeing? What’s missing?’”

This led to a statewide survey of 6,000 coaches, the first of its kind.

“We learned things like coaches did not feel confident in providing mental health support but two-thirds wanted more training about it,” Bates said.

Another key insight the research team gained from coaches? The training needed to be short: one hour.

“Believe it or not, coaches have very short attention spans,” Bates said with a laugh, “and they’re not being paid a lot.”

In addition, researchers spoke with 50 student-athletes to hear their perspectives about coaching. This perspective clued researchers in to one of the larger issues facing coaches and student-athletes today: the COVID-19 pandemic.

“These kiddos were telling us that they were so stressed and busy, that they’re not feeling up to snuff,” said Emily Nothnagle, a social work PhD student. “Some of these kids are now sophomores and juniors in high school – they’re expected to be team captains, but the pandemic stopped them in middle school.”

“When we think about the ripple effects of the pandemic, we lost a lot of relational currency,” Bates said. “When you’ve had two years of being unable to see each other and touch base, those rapport-building things are absent. And we know those are the foundation of a great sports experience. A lot of people, including coaches, needed tools just to re-enter that environment.”

Another issue facing coaches today is proximity to their players. Between 50% and 70% of coaches are not educators in their school buildings, Bates said, which is a change from the time when teachers were coaches as well as educators. While this demonstrates community support for athletics, these coaches are missing training and day-to-day interactions that are part of being a teacher.

“If you saw someone in the building struggling the day after a game, you could do some wrap around [support], maybe connect them to the right people and sit them out of practice for a day,” Bates said. “If I don’t see a student until 4:30, there may be some gaps in our understanding of what kids are experiencing.”

Josh DeVoll, athletic director of Granville High School, said his district has been part of the Coach Beyond program for about two years. He said high school athletics have become more professionalized for students, leading to more stress for some students.

His coaches need training and a toolkit that includes more than a rulebook and a whistle.

“Creating content education that we can get in front of all our coaches, especially the ones who are non-educators, is invaluable,” he said. “We go through CPR training. We go through the concussion protocol information. But until recently, there was nothing in that coach training toolkit to provide them an opportunity to gain those types of skills to help support students.”

DeVoll said coaches today need to be more aware of the emotional and mental well-being of their players, a mindset that has changed over time. Bates agreed and said students appreciate it when coaches recognize their needs have evolved.

“One of my favorite things that came out of the focus groups is that students said they hate when coaches say, ‘Back when I played…’ because it’s not the same,” she said. “All they want is to be validated and have someone walk alongside them and help problem solve.”

Bates and the Coach Beyond team have recently published two peer-reviewed articles about Coach Beyond and focus groups with student-athletes. Articles are linked here:

• Mental health training for high school coaches and athletic directors: Community-based participatory research to Coach Beyond (sagepub.com)
• Full article: Beyond the scoreboard: school-based sport experiences and high school student-athlete well-being (tandfonline.com)

“We’re here tonight to celebrate the best of the best  ̶  those of you who define innovative thinking, high-quality scholarship, impactful service, leadership, the power of mentorship. What happens when you apply your expertise to society’s biggest challenges?” Carter told the honorees. “The work you do not only impacts lives, it saves lives.”

Honorees represent a wide range of expertise, said Interim Executive Vice President and Provost Karla Zadnik.

“These colleagues represent the extraordinary quality that our faculty members bring to our students, the community and beyond,” she said. “Our eminent faculty are the key drivers behind the success of our talented students, and I’m proud that our university fosters excellence at every stage of the faculty life cycle.”

The Distinguished University Professor award, Ohio State’s highest faculty honor, was presented to Judit Puskas, distinguished professor in the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Wooster campus. Her extensive research on polymers has resulted in more than 430 publications and 33 patents, showcasing the significant applied impacts of her research in biomedical engineering and sustainability.

“This was definitely a big surprise for me,” Puskas said. “Ohio State is the best.”

Three professors were recognized with the President and Provost’s Award for Distinguished Faculty Service: Eric Bielefeld, professor and chair, Department of Speech and Hearing Science, College of Arts and Sciences; Elizabeth Hewitt, professor, Department of English, College of Arts and Sciences; and Christopher Jaroniec, distinguished professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry; associate dean for research and creative inquiry, College of Arts and Sciences.

“These awardees are tireless servants of the university,” said Patrick Louchouarn, senior vice provost for faculty. “Their contributions to the development and implementation of university policies and programs through non-administrative roles have been extensive and have positively impacted the quality of our university.”

The Distinguished Scholar Award was presented to six faculty members.

“The Distinguished Scholar Award is among the highest annual honors The Ohio State University bestows on a faculty member in recognition of outstanding scholarly activity, research or creative works,” said Peter Mohler, executive vice president, Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge. “These colleagues represent exceptional achievements in their fields and have brought distinction to themselves and Ohio State.”

Distinguished Scholar Award recipients are:

Amal Amer, professor and vice chair for translational research, Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, College of Medicine.

Sara Butler, professor and King George III Chair in British History, Department of History; Director, Center for Historical Research, College of Arts and Sciences.

Smita Mathur, professor, Department of Astronomy, College of Arts and Sciences.

Srinivasan Parthasarathy, professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, College of Engineering.

Robyn Warhol, distinguished professor, Department of English, College of Arts and Sciences.

Shang-Tian Yang, professor, David H. George Endowed Chair, William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Engineering.

Also during the ceremony, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering C. Emre Koksal was recognized as the Innovator of the Year. His areas of expertise include data science, wireless communications, information security, communication networks and information theory.

Kotaro Nakanishi, associate professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, received the Early Career Innovator of the Year award. His research seeks to understand how small non-coding RNAs and their binding proteins work together to control eukaryotic gene expression.

Other honors presented during the celebration included the Community Engaged Scholar Award. Recipients are:  

Sharon Amacher, professor and vice chair, Department of Molecular Genetics, College of Arts and Sciences; professor, Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, College of Medicine.

John Beacom, distinguished professor of physics and astronomy, College of Arts and Sciences; Henry L. Cox Endowed Professor, Department of Physics; director, Center for Cosmology and AstroParticle Physics, Department of Astronomy.

Joshua Joseph, associate professor, Endowed Professor for Research in Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine.

Paula Meijerink, associate professor, Landscape Architecture Program, Knowlton School of Architecture, College of Engineering.

Townsand Price-Spratlen, associate professor, Department of Sociology, College of Arts and Sciences.

Smitha Rao, assistant professor, College of Social Work.

Kevin McClatchy, associate professor, Department of Theatre Film and Media Arts, College of Arts and Sciences, was recognized as Ohio State’s 2024-25 Artist Laureate. Also recognized were Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching honorees, who are inducted into the university’s Academy of Teaching for the improvement of teaching at Ohio State.

The Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching honorees are:

Katrina Lee, John C. Elamn/Vorys Sater Professor in Law, Moritz College of Law.

Joe Raczowski, assistant professor of professional practice, Department of Entomology, College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

Frances Sivakoff, assistant professor, Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Marion campus.

Mary Sterenberg, assistant professor of practice, School of Communication, College of Arts and Sciences.

Zachary Woods, assistant professor of practice, Division of Pharmacy Education and Innovation, College of Pharmacy.

Faculty members who have received external awards during the 2023-24 academic year also were recognized. Those honored included Pierre Agostini, professor emeritus of physics and 2023 Nobel Laureate, and 2024 Guggenheim Fellows Ryan Johnson, post-MFA dance scholar; Gina Osterloh, associate art professor; and Abby Zbikowski, associate dance professor.   

For a complete list of Faculty Awards honorees, visit the program’s website.

“They said, ‘Trust me. You’ll be glad we interrupted,’” McClatchy said.

McClatchy’s colleagues were right. The assembled group of faculty and staff were there to congratulate him on being named the university’s Artist Laureate for the 2024-2025 academic year. Brown was the university’s inaugural Artist Laureate. She arrived wearing a gold laurel crown and had one for McClatchy as well.

“I was grateful and thrilled,” he said. “It was special to share that moment with my students as well.”

McClatchy will focus on two projects while he serves as the university’s Artist Laureate: an expansion of the Shakespeare and Autism Project, which he directs, and sharing his one-person show, “Scrap Heap,” with audiences across state.

“Kevin’s work with the autism community and military veterans has already been extremely impactful,” said Lisa Florman, vice provost for the arts. “My hope is that, in his role as Ohio State’s Artist Laureate, he will have the resources he needs to grow his efforts, adding new partners, and touching even more lives than he has been able to reach previously.”

McClatchy is eager to begin. He finds his work rewarding, both in terms of what he is able to share and what he is able to receive.

“The secret is that we get at least as much as we give,” he said. “The inspiration and what we learn from autistic children and the families in the autism community, it dwarfs what we can offer. The same goes for veterans and the military community.”

The Shakespeare and Autism Project is a passion for McClatchy, he said. The program trains artists, educators and others on how to use the Hunter Heartbeat Method, a theater-based intervention that helps children across the autism spectrum improve social and communication skills through games using the rhythm of Shakespeare’s language, which is anchored by the sound of a heartbeat.

Already a success in Columbus, the Shakespeare and Autism Project’s next stop is Ohio State’s regional campuses. McClatchy will take the training there as well as to other community sites to spread the program throughout the state.

“We want this to be a foundation of growing this work in those areas,” he said. “We’re bringing those tools and that transformative experience to new places. And we’ll be a resource to people as they continue to grow and deepen the work in the community.”

Another group that McClatchy works with is veterans. With close friends and family members serving in the armed forces, he is familiar with just how difficult readjusting to civilian life can be.

His one-person show “Scrap Heap” is based on the experiences of a friend who served in the 1980s and 1990s. McClatchy performs for local audiences and then facilitators, veterans themselves, lead a conversation about the play.

“I don’t facilitate the conversations,” he said. “I provide an artistic experience and atmosphere where we’re coming together as a community, bringing people together who might not normally be in the same space.”

So many veterans he’s met “wouldn’t change their service but had these challenges [when they came home],” he said.

“I asked myself, ‘What can I do with whatever skillset or talent I have to be of service to them?’”

As with the Shakespeare and Autism Project, McClatchy’s goal is to lead workshops that will facilitate spreading support for veterans across the state, through art.

“The main function of art,” he said, “is making community experiences. We share those experiences in a different way than we go about communicating most of the day. When we look through an artistic lens, it feels like we can express things in a richer way. The Artist Laureate position allows me to do that, to foster those kinds of circumstances. That is a significant charge, a significant responsibility.”

Ben Givens, an associate professor in the Department of Psychology, is leaving his role as senate secretary as he retires from the university after nearly 33 years as a faculty member.

Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. honored Givens’ tenure last week at the senate’s final meeting of the academic year. The president noted his “incredible legacy” in helping to usher Ohio State through the COVID-19 pandemic and navigating other big changes, including adding staff as voting members of the senate in 2019.

Givens said he’ll miss his regular contact with bright, interesting people – including serving as an adviser to three university presidents – and the senate’s role in having “a 360-degree view of the university.”

“It really has kept me young,” he said.

The University Senate is the shared governance body that helps Ohio State function as a unified institution. Faculty, students and staff work with university administrators to develop and modify policies and solutions for important issues facing the university. Senate membership consists of 71 faculty, 41 students, 24 administrators and five staff members.

Many of the university’s issues that eventually go to the Board of Trustees for approval first go to the senate.

Givens has led the Ohio Faculty Council and the association of senates for Ohio’s 14 state universities, and was an active participant in the Big Ten Academic Alliance. He did this while teaching students and conducting research in his focus area of behavioral neuroscience.

The son of a history professor at Bowling Green State University, Givens joined the faculty at Ohio State in the fall of 1991. His first two decades were focused on research and teaching; in the last 10 years, in the interest of giving back to the university, he sought service outside of his department and became more involved in the University Senate, first with the Athletic Council.

Givens served as a trusted adviser to presidents over his seven-year leadership term, helping to relay faculty sentiments on important topics of the day.

Some university senates do not allow students, staff and non-tenured faculty to join as voting members. Givens is proud of Ohio State’s more inclusive shared governance model and how the different groups work together to make the university better.

“Through shared governance, you feel like you’re making a real difference in the direction of the university,” he said.

Carter announced that Jared Gardner, the Joseph V. Denney Distinguished Professor of English and director of the popular culture studies program, will succeed Givens as secretary of the senate. Gardner joined Ohio State’s faculty in 1999 and has served three terms in the University Senate.

He starts June 1, and Givens retires on June 30, when he and his wife will spend more time at their cabin in Virginia.

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

As the semester draws to a close, I want to thank you for your dedication to teaching, learning, research, patient care – and to Ohio State. As we look forward to spring commencement and the events surrounding this momentous occasion for the class of 2024, I am reminded of the resilience of this class as they navigated starting their collegiate careers during a pandemic.

We have much to be proud of – many achievements that reflect our comprehensive excellence and the collective efforts of students, faculty and staff. Because of you, this institution is vibrant and had an incredible year of achievement.

It has also been a challenging and, at times, painfully difficult year for many as we navigated devastating natural disasters, global conflict and tragedies across our nation. I continue to remind all campus community members that we have resources to assist you, from counseling, wellness and tutoring services for students, to the Employee Assistance Program for staff and faculty.

College campuses, including ours, must be places where we can process these events through respectful discussion and debate. We are here together to learn from one another and hear new and different perspectives – including those with which we disagree.

I want our students, faculty and staff to stand up for what you believe in – to have a voice and to use that voice. We must dedicate ourselves to using our voices with civility and compassion. Our motto is “Education for Citizenship,” and respectful debate is at the heart of our democracy.

I remain steadfastly committed to maintaining an environment where all members of our community feel welcome while continuing to uphold the First Amendment and the laws of our state and nation. Ohio State will continue to prioritize safety, including having university police and trained staff on-site for student demonstrations. We will also consistently enforce our space rules, which do not allow for intentional disruptions of university events, classes, exams or programming, including commencement.

When protected speech becomes incitement or threats of violence, Ohio State has and will always move quickly to enforce the law and university policy. I will not compromise on this.

Ohio State is fundamentally composed of people – of all of us. As the academic year draws to a close, I ask all of you to consider how your words might affect your fellow Buckeyes. Even if speech is protected, is it how you would talk to a member of your family or a friend? Displays of hate speech on our campuses, even if allowed under the First Amendment, are reprehensible and do not align with our values. Ohio State must be a place where all are welcome and safe.

This university changes people’s lives every day, and each of us is responsible for maintaining an environment where all of us can thrive.

We are all Buckeyes, and we chose to be Buckeyes. We chose to join a community of common traditions and mutual purpose. This has always been one of the core strengths of Ohio State, and it always will be. Congratulations to each of you on a successful semester. As you prepare for final exams, commencement, summer internships, first jobs or whatever comes next, know that you will always be Buckeyes and will always be welcome at Ohio State.

Ted

Ted Carter
President

The AAAS Fellowship, recognizing scientifically or socially distinguished efforts to advance science or its applications, is one of the most prestigious honors a U.S. scientist can receive. Fellows are elected by their academic peers. 

“Ohio State’s newly elected Fellows represent a breadth of expertise in subjects ranging from cardiac disorders and marine life to STEM education and exoplanets,” said Peter Mohler, executive vice president for research, innovation and knowledge. “I am pleased to see these creative thinkers receive well-deserved recognition for their research and service from the American Association for the Advancement of Science.” 

The 2023 class includes 502 scientists, engineers and innovators spanning 24 scientific disciplines.  

Ohio State’s newest Fellows, representing the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Education and Human Ecology, Engineering and Pharmacy, are:  

Cynthia Carnes, professor of pharmacy and senior associate vice president for research operations. For sustained and distinguished excellence in pharmaceutical research pertaining to the pathogenesis and treatment of patients with cardiac arrhythmias. 

Meg Daly, professor of evolution, ecology and organismal biology and associate dean of undergraduate education. For distinguished contributions to the field of Cnidarian systematics, evolution, phylogeography and behavior, in particular of sea anemones. 

B. Scott Gaudi, professor of astronomy. For pioneering work in the search for extra-solar planets and service to the astronomical community. 

Kendra McSweeney, professor of geography. For a distinguished scholarly record which is well-communicated to the public in advancing environmental social science and the study of human-environmental relationships. 

James L. Moore III, professor of educational studies and director of the Bell National Resource Center. For distinguished contributions to the fields of urban education, broadening participation in STEM, and STEM higher education. 

Natividad Ruiz, professor of microbiology. For key contributions to the field of microbiology by identification of lipid transport systems used by enteric bacteria to build their outer membrane and peptidoglycan cell wall. 

Matthew Sullivan, professor of microbiology and director of the Center of Microbiome Science. For pioneering studies of viral economics to study viruses in complex communities via quantitative sample-to-sequence pipelines, and linking viruses to hosts, and studying viral impact in the marine environment. 

Aylin Yener, professor of electrical and computer engineering, computer science and engineering, and integrated systems engineering. For distinguished contributions to the fields of communications, information theory and signal processing, particularly for the development of wireless physical layer security and design principles of sustainable energy harvesting wireless networks. 

The new Fellows will be celebrated at a forum in Washington, D.C., in September.

The new building is a modern home for the program and replaces the Drake Performance and Event Center. It shares a part of campus that connects the Timashev Family Music Building and the Wexner Center for the Arts.

University leaders helped open the building to hundreds of students, faculty, staff and community members. The opening included a tour of the new building, classroom demonstrations and a visit from Brutus Buckeye.

“This building … is the keystone of the arts district. Today, this area is an asset to our university in so many ways. It helps us engage with the community and state. It’s a centerpiece of our mission as a public land-grant university. And these are state-of-the-art venues which people are always going to want to come to, see productions and see the great work our Ohio State faculty and students are doing,” said Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “It’s a new home base from which Buckeyes can interface with and serve all of Ohio and it’s going to supercharge collaboration, which goes hand in hand with creativity.”

“The building is also a node in a network of engagement partnerships and internship opportunities for our students, part of a broader effort across our college to lean into the university’s motto of Education for Citizenship,” said David Horn, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “The building is a site for scholarship for various forms of research, creative projects and interdisciplinary collaborations that have won national and international recognition.”

The five-floor building includes classroom, performance, studio and office space. It also features spaces for students to create, including a multipurpose theatre lab for new and experimental production and theatre studios for scenery, costumes, lighting, and sound.

The building is centered around two state-of-the-art performance spaces, including a 450-seat proscenium theatre and a hybrid black box theatre. Lisa Florman, vice provost for the arts, said the new spaces offered new opportunities to share art and creative expression beyond campus.

“It’s wonderful … to finally have spaces commensurate with the quality of the work being done in them,” she said. “But our strong investment in the arts has also meant that even as we take pride in what we have here on campus, we are able to look outward and to engage with our communities in richer and more meaningful ways than we ever have before.”

As the university continues to grow the TFMA program, the new building includes spaces for students studying film, moving image production and media arts, including two sound stages, editing suites, a sound lab and a screening room. E.J. Westlake, chair and professor of Theatre, Film, and Media Arts, said at their heart, theater and film help explore humanity.

“Theater and film are both about telling stories, stories about what it means to be human beings. Our stories teach us empathy and give us tools to be citizens in a really complicated world,” she said. “Bringing them together teaches us about collaboration and the emotional maturity it takes to give back to our society. We learn to be resilient leaders and curious learners.”

Taunque joins an exclusive group of 60 Truman Scholars. The 2024 cohort was selected from 709 candidates nominated by 285 colleges across the U.S.

Truman Scholars demonstrate outstanding leadership potential, a commitment to a career in government or the nonprofit sector, and academic excellence. Established by Congress in 1975 as a living memorial to President Harry S. Truman and a national monument to public service, the Truman Scholarship supports the next generation of public service leaders.

“Anitvir has already proven himself as a dedicated scholar, entrepreneur and a committed public servant. He exemplifies the mission of the Truman Foundation – to cultivate the next generation of servant-leaders,” said Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “On behalf of the university, I congratulate Anitvir for this accomplishment and I look forward to seeing him grow, lead and represent the best of what it means to be a Buckeye.”

“I am so proud of Anitvir and his remarkable accomplishment of earning a Truman Scholarship,” said Karla Zadnik, interim executive vice president and provost. “His achievements in academics, passion for the well-being of others, and commitment to serving the greater good are inspiring qualities that represent the very best of our Ohio State community. He has a bright future, and I wish him continued success.”

Each Truman Scholar receives funding for graduate studies, leadership training, career counseling, and special internship and fellowship opportunities within the federal government.

Taunque said the scholarship interview process helped him focus.

“When we do our interview, they give us a minute at the end to give closing remarks. [I said] that being pre-med and wanting to be a doctor, the focus is so much on what comes next. One of the things that has done for me is it makes it a little harder to focus on what’s happening right now, living in the moment,” he said. “To have this award gives me that opportunity to just sit and think about how fortunate I am to have all these opportunities and how they could potentially fit together in a career as a public servant. It was very refreshing, and I think it refined my vision for the future.”

At Ohio State, Taunque is a Stamps Eminence Scholar, Buckeye Leadership Fellow and student wellness coach. He participated in the undergraduate research apprenticeship program, was a member of a winning team in the President’s Buckeye Accelerator program and volunteers at free clinics in Columbus and Punjab, India. 

Taunque was part of the ServUS team in the Buckeye Accelerator program. They created a website for universities to match students to local service organizations. The platform allows students to explore service opportunities, create their own social projects and help local service organizations recruit and manage volunteers. 

“It really opened my mind to business entrepreneurship, technology and how you can still use that to address public service,” he said. “There is a misconception. … People think that if you go towards the corporate side, it’s just money making, that’s the priority. But through ServUS, I can say it’s a testament that that is not the case.”

Steven Mousetes, program manager for the biomedical science undergraduate major, is one of Taunque’s mentors and recommended him for the Truman Scholarship.

“As an educator, it’s highly moving and inspirational to see a student from high school as they evolve,” he said. “[Taunque] meets with me regularly. We talk about the things that he’s doing. Sometimes things don’t work out, but he has great coping skills. The thing that I always say in his recommendations is that he seeks advice and then acts on it.”

Taunque said he plans to go to medical school. He said he wants to work as a physician and policy researcher who contributes innovative and intimate solutions to improve health literacy for people of all backgrounds across the U.S.  

“I’m going to stick with my passions. I love tech, I love the startup realm. I get the chance to engage with the government and influence policy now, and I think that’s an amazing opportunity,” he said. “I’m going to take that opportunity and keep my options open. But in terms of what I want to do next, I don’t know. But I’m really excited to find out.”

Carter discussed the founding history of the university with the passage of the Morrill Act in 1862 and the Canon Act of 1870. He discussed university traditions ranging from Script Ohio to the chimes of Orton Hall to the alma mater “Carmen Ohio.”

“You know when I came [to Ohio State], I talked about what excited me to come here to be part of this great university, how excellent we were in programs like academics, research, medical care, medical research, the arts, athletics. None of that has been a disappointment,” he said.

The president highlighted some of the recent success stories at the university, noting that Ohio State scholars achieved almost $1.45 billion in research expenditures in 2023, ranking just ahead of Harvard at No. 11 nationally.

He discussed the excellence of the Wexner Medical Center and the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute as among the best cancer hospitals in the U.S.

Ohio State has students, alumni, employees, patients and facilities in each of the state’s 88 counties, and has connections across the country and active partnerships around the globe, he said. Carter pointed to research relationships with Honda, Intel and Amgen.

Carter has spoken about the importance of access and affordability for college-seeking students. He said Ohio State is meeting that standard and will work to improve.

“Affordability has got to be one of the centerpieces of what we do. … It’s important to know that we are still one of the most affordable, best-value educations you can find, not only in the state of Ohio, but anywhere in the country,” he said. “We are the second most affordable of anybody that has a selective admission process.”

Ohio State is also more affordable than 10 of 17 other schools in the Big Ten.

He shared that only 42% of Ohio State undergraduate students graduate with debt, compared to 61% nationally. And of those graduating with debt, Ohio State students have recently been borrowing less, a little under $25,000 across their undergraduate experience – or about $4,000 less than the national average.

Carter also addressed the culture of the university and the importance of civil discourse. He said when he was appointed as president that safety would be one of his top priorities.

“I can’t tell students or faculty how to feel, but all I can do is make sure that we are going to continue to do everything we can to keep our campus secure and safe. That includes elements of free speech,” he said, adding that he swore an oath as a naval officer to defend the Constitution. “I am passionate about freedom of speech. But that doesn’t mean freedom of speech is your right to create violence, incite violence, or harass others.”

The president said he continues to listen and learn from the campus community, and announced that he plans to do that more broadly with a survey of university faculty and staff. The survey, to be launched later this month, will ask employees to weigh in on their experience and engagement at Ohio State. The survey will be matched up with a similar annual survey conducted by the Wexner Medical Center and shared with the university community.

He said he would develop a university strategy with faculty, staff and university stakeholders for the future of Ohio State, noting that the university has been and continues to be excellent across its history.

“We can just be happy to maintain what we have. But I don’t believe the founders who created us 154 years ago ever envisioned that we would ever rest on our laurels,” Carter said. “So we will not rest on our laurels. And then the second part of the vision is we have to create and maintain a culture of excellence, a culture of excellence in everything we do.”

Carter ended his address quoting the powerful lyrics from “Carmen Ohio.” He focused on the third verse and how the nautical lines reminded him of his career in the U.S. Navy: If on seas of care we roll,
Neath blackened sky or barren shoal, Thoughts of thee bid darkness go, Dear Alma Mater...OHIO.

“I could not be more proud to be your 17th president,” he said. “Together, we will navigate the seas of care.”

Ohio State’s Lima, Mansfield, Marion and CFAES Wooster campuses are in the eclipse’s path of totality and will operate in a virtual and work from home environment on Monday. In Columbus and Newark, the eclipse will be partial and campuses will operate as usual. Highways and local roadways throughout Ohio may experience higher than normal traffic volumes due to eclipse tourism-related traffic.

While it is likely to be more congested around the Lima, Mansfield, Marion and CFAES Wooster campuses, motorists traveling to and from all Ohio State campuses are encouraged to plan ahead, anticipate traffic delays on highways and local roadways and allow for extra travel time, especially in the afternoon and evening hours after the eclipse.

Increased cellular usage may affect cell service in areas outside of major cities.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, appearing to completely block the sun. At that time, the sky will completely darken for those in the path of totality – where the moon completely blocks the sun, leaving a shadow – for up to 4 1/2 minutes. These major astronomical events happen every few years somewhere on the planet, but they are rare to happen in a specific location: The next one to happen in Ohio is in September 2099.

Ohioans will be able to view the eclipse Monday afternoon sometime between about 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Initial weather forecasts for Monday include a small chance of rain and a chance of cloudiness.

You can view real-time traffic info throughout the state by downloading the Ohio Department of Transportation’s OHGO app.

Additional information is available on the university’s eclipse resource website.

The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center warns a potentially substantial severe weather outbreak is possible today, including a few significant or long-track tornadoes, with the highest threat level concentrated over central Ohio.

Columbus, Mansfield, Marion and Newark are under a moderate risk level, the second highest level on the NWS rating system. Lima and CFAES Wooster are currently under an enhanced risk level, just below moderate.

All types of severe weather are possible, with a risk of strong tornadoes this afternoon.

If you are outside when a tornado warning is issued, take shelter in the nearest building. If you are in a residence hall, follow the instructions on the Emergency Evacuation Plans posted on hallway walls. These list the best available shelter locations.

In addition, consider these safety tips:

• Try to remain calm.
• Move to the lowest levels of the building, preferably in the middle of the building away from doors and windows.
• If you cannot make it to the lowest level, seek shelter in a small room under a table or something sturdy.
• Do not use elevators.

Please visit the Department of Public Safety website or the National Weather Service website for “what to do during a tornado.” The Ohio Emergency Management Agency also offers several tips to prepare for severe weather.

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or your local radio or television stations for the latest weather and safety information. In any emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials. It’s important to keep cell phones charged before an emergency.

It’s also important to know the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning.

• Tornado Watch means a tornado is possible. Stay tuned to your local radio station or television for weather updates. Know where you’ll shelter, if necessary.
• Tornado Warning means a tornado is happening or imminent. Take shelter immediately.

Please follow @OSU_EMFP on Twitter or check emergency.osu.edu for any updates.

Students, faculty and staff can monitor the current Columbus campus conditions online. The website includes a live weather camera, updated weather conditions and current forecasts.

Congressional Conversations is an initiative of Moritz College of Law and the John Glenn College of Public Affairs that brings prominent federal legislators to Ohio State on a regular basis. The event is co-sponsored by the Moritz Program on Law and Leadership, the Office of Government Affairs and the Institute for Democratic Engagement and Accountability (IDEA). 

Conversations focus not on the day’s partisan talking points but rather on improving the legislative process, public policy and leadership. Trevor Brown, dean of the Glenn College, and law student Aditya Medicherla moderated the discussion.

“One of the important roles of a public university and the Congressional Conversation series is to create an environment where we can have conversations about difficult and contentious issues in a civil and respectful manner that contributes to our understanding and welcomes and fosters a diversity of viewpoints,” Brown said.

Last year, Carey and Beatty relaunched the Congressional Civility and Respect Caucus. Originally established by Beatty and former U.S. Rep. Steve Stivers, the goal of the bipartisan caucus is to encourage all members of Congress to act with civility and respect in their political discourse.

Beatty and Carey have preached the message to businesses and civic organizations across central Ohio to help promote respectful dialogue on challenging issues. 

“It was to hopefully demonstrate that we don’t have to agree, but we don’t have to not be civil. We don’t have to say things about people’s families or disparaging things about individuals that are really not true,” Beatty said.

Carey said it has been a privilege to share the message with fellow representatives in central Ohio and around the country. He said he would be participating in a civility event in suburban Chicago later this year with Democratic Rep. Brad Schneider.

“It really all started because of what Joyce and Steve decided to do. This is our 18th event. I actually went to a Republican fundraiser, and I said … I feel very strange being in a room with all of you people in central Ohio and Joyce Beatty’s not on stage with me. That’s how many times you’ll find us working together,” he said.

Beatty and Carey both expressed hope that Congress will be able to find a solution to looming funding deadlines in early March. They also expressed frustration with the challenges of changing leadership in the House and razor-thin voting margins.

Audience members asked the representatives their views on student protests, and both said they agreed with the right to protest when the issues were important.

The final question for the representatives was about the advice they would offer to students who want to advocate for themselves or others. Both representatives noted there are opportunities to serve outside of elected office. Beatty said some of the most important laws begin at the smallest level.

“For those in Glenn College, I think you should help us with public policy. And I recommend that if you have thoughts on public policy issues, most pieces of legislation come from the district, an idea, a family or a name, like the Amber Alert,” Beatty said. “If you think about all the [laws] that get named, it’s because some nurse, some students, some public policy person weighed in.”

Carey encouraged students to “get in the arena.”

“Whether you run for office yourself, whether you go into a congressional office or state representative office, city council, county commissioner, I just think it really gives you the opportunity to be part of what we need in this country, which is change.”