Central State University to Build State-of-the-Art Residential/Academic/Wellness Complex

WILBERFORCE, OH. – Central State University will build its first apartment-style residence hall to give students more on-campus housing options.

The complex, which will feature studio, one-, two- and four-bedroom apartments, will also feature a state-of-the-art health and wellness center, a wellness plaza and an outdoor activity space. The amenities will provide new housing solutions for students who want to stay on campus to live, learn and grow.

The 250-bed facility will be located behind McPherson Stadium and will create an anchor and public face on the east part of the campus. It will be the largest single residential facility to date. The most recent dorms added were the Harry Johns Living Learning Center and Fox Hall, both built in 2011.

“Our campus is growing and we are glad to make this investment for our students so that students can have different living options that keep them connected to the campus and other campus amenities, said Curtis Pettis, Vice President for Administration and Finance & CFO.

Currently 1,221 CSU students, or 70 percent of enrolled students, live in University housing. The University is leasing apartment-style spaces from Payne Theological Seminary and the Greene Meadows Apartment complex for 30 juniors and seniors.

The planned health & wellness center will include two classrooms that can be used as additional academic space for the University’s Exercise Science major and rooms for exercise classes. A Health café, where food and beverages will be sold, will be located there.

Jahan Culbreath, Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Athletics, said the new Wellness Center “empowers the CSU family and community to focus on health, wellness, and fitness, while providing hands-on space for the Exercise Science program.”

The new complex will be built by University Housing Solutions (UHS), which specializes in developing living/learning communities on university campuses. According to UHS, the Ohio-based company has planned, designed and built more than 2,500 beds within the past six years. UHS was the contractor that built the Harry Johns Living Learning Center and Fox Hall.

Cost of the project is $24M. UHS will own the residence hall and lease it back to the University. A groundbreaking ceremony will be held on Friday, April 27.

Montgomery County and Central State University Will Collaborate to Develop a Smart Water Distribution Model

WILBERFORCE, OH - Central State University, Ohio’s 1890 Land-Grant Institution, will assist Montgomery County officials in continuing its mission to supply high quality water 24/7 to the region.

The University is entering into a two-year memorandum of understanding with Montgomery County to collaborate on the development of a Smart Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection model across the Montgomery County System. The $400,000 deal between Montgomery County and Central State includes a $200,000 match from the University. On Tuesday, April 10, Montgomery County Commissioners approved the resolution for the MOU.

The partnership will also promote projects, initiatives, and collaborations that focus on Water Resource Management, Health/Food/Exercise, Workforce Development and Advanced Agricultural Technologies. The University will utilize the expertise of its International Center for Water Resources Management, which has addressed both global and statewide water quality challenges. The Center was the first of its kind in Ohio and among all Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

“Central State is committed to collaborating with municipalities to share best practices and opportunities that will enrich the student experience and drive research and economic initiatives for communities,” said Dr. Alton Johnson, Dean, College of Engineering, Science, Technology, and Agriculture and Director, 1890 Land-Grant Programs. “We are excited our University will play a key role in Montgomery County’s water distribution strategies as we increasingly institutionalize both our research and our economic development mandates.” University and research collaboration is a critical part of the Land-Grant mission. Late last year, Central State entered into a partnership with the City of Trotwood to provide agricultural research and Extension activities.

This new agreement will enable both organizations to promote further dialogue and coordination in the areas of research in agricultural, food sciences, and water resources for students and researchers. The MOU is through April 30, 2020.

The Impact of Increasing Diversity and Inclusion in the Field of Economics

April 6, 2018 - WILBERFORCE, OHIO - Dr. Loretta J. Mester, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, delivered a pragmatic and yet visionary message at Central State University focused on the necessity of inclusiveness in the field of Economics.

"I like to think of economics as a social science that helps us think about how people use scarce resources," Dr. Mester said during her keynote address on April 4 at the L.E.E.D. Conference, hosted by the College of Business.

L.E.E.D., which stands for Leaders, Executives, Entrepreneurs and Directors, is a two-day annual event focused on providing a networking opportunity for business majors to share substantive practical knowledge in planning, teamwork and decision-making.

Dr. Mester's speech was filled with facts, figures and statistics. But she also shared anecdotes from her own life with more than 250 students, business leaders and industry attendees.

She said she 'lucked' into the field through the recommendation from two Princeton professors who thought she could use her math degree to gain a leg-up in the Ph.D. program at Princeton University.

"It has provided me with a fascinating career, and I hope that at least in a small way I’ve been able to provide some good in return through economic research and policymaking," Dr. Mester said. "Economics has many real-world applications," she stated. "It can help us understand the issues facing people in or entering the workforce and provide evidence on which programs are most effective at helping them finance their education, develop new skills, and manage the changing job landscape driven by technological innovation."

Dr. Mester was emphatic in her message that a more diverse Federal Reserve makes better policy.

"I have seen firsthand how having a diversity of views expressed and discussed around the table can actually lead to better policy decisions, and there is actual research to back this up," said Dr. Mester. “When a more diverse group is at the table making policy, she said, it helps avoid "group-think."

Today only about a third of women are choosing to major in economics as compared to their male counterparts, while the rate for minorities is about half that of white students, she said. But not only is the field of economics missing out on the diversity of thought, ideas and solutions, but minority students are losing out on a degree that provides lucrative career opportunities immediately upon graduation.

One recent study found that those with a bachelor's degree in economics earn about 20 percent more than graduates with degrees in other fields. Some of the salary differences reflect the fact that economics majors have access to a wide variety of occupations, many of which are higher-paying.

Dr. Fidelis Ikem, Dean of the College of Business, understands the opportunities for students studying economics. The College is working to develop a concentration in agricultural economics to meet the increasing demands for this field in Ohio.

"We think this program will go hand-in-hand with our agribusiness program," said Dr. Ikem. "Our students love challenges and this will be a great challenge and complement to their business degree."

Remi Lambirth, a sophomore sustainable agriculture major, asked about the current trade dispute with China. Secretary Perdue said he had spoken to President Donald Trump and President Trump told him, "Sonny I want you to assure our farmers out there that we will not let them be the victim of a trade dispute."

Frederick Hayes, Jr., a senior who is also Mr. CSU, said after leading a tour of campus for Secretary Perdue, "He actually seemed like a very down-to-earth person."

“It’s been a pleasure having him here," Hayes said. "I hope he gained a lot of insight into the University."

U. S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue Visits Central State University to Promote Agricultural Careers and Research

April 5, 2018 - WILBERFORCE, OHIO - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue came to Central State University on Thursday, April 5, to evangelize about the varied careers in the Agriculture Industry, saying “the future of agriculture is bright.”

By the time he left, he was even more convinced of that after talking with about 20 Central State students during a roundtable discussion.

Perdue brought his “Back to Our Roots” RV Tour to Central State, Ohio’s only 1890 Land-Grant University. During the Secretary’s visit, he also spoke to faculty researchers on the myriad of research projects faculty and student researchers are working on. “The thing about Land-Grant Universities is they solve problems for real-world issues,” Secretary Perdue said.

Central State University President Dr. Cynthia Jackson-Hammond said, since the University became a Land-Grant Institution in 2014, “We are the baby” of the 1890 Land-Grant Institutions. But she said, “we act, we think, we strategically plan as if we are the senior of the 1890 institutions.”

As an 1890 Land-Grant University, Central State’s focus on teaching, research and extension is centered on student development, cutting-edge research and providing critical knowledge to farmers and urban and rural communities. Signature research activities focus on Water Resources; Food, Health and Nutrition; and Advanced Agricultural Technologies.

Secretary Perdue talked about agricultural issues facing Ohio and other states, such as the problem of algal blooms, the need to do a better job with nutrient management and how to make the nation’s supply of food more affordable and healthy. The USDA is “vast, broad, it’s wide and deep. I would love for you all to look at the USDA as a career,” he said.

Mairah Gill-Pillow, a senior biology major, working on a research project using directed energy weed control, asked Secretary Perdue, “What is your advice for women in Agriculture?” Secretary Perdue replied, “the good thing is agriculture is not gender specific.”

Remi Lambirth, a sophomore sustainable agriculture major, asked about the current trade dispute with China. Secretary Perdue said he had spoken to President Donald Trump and President Trump told him, “Sonny I want you to assure our farmers out there that we will not let them be the victim of a trade dispute.”

Frederick Hayes, Jr., a senior who is also Mr. CSU, said after leading a tour of campus for Secretary Perdue, “He actually seemed like a very down-to-earth person.”

“It’s been a pleasure having him here,” Hayes said. “I hope he gained a lot of insight into the University.”

Leaders, Executives, Entrepreneurs, and Directors Program

WILBERFORCE, OH - LEED is an annual program presented by the Central State University College of Business to promote a networking environment for the students. Leaders, Executives, Entrepreneurs, and Directors convey their practical and substantive knowledge with the schools most prized assets, our students.

The photo is of LEED Keynote Speaker Dr. Loretta Mester, Central State University President Cynthia Jackson-Hammond and Union Savings Bank CEO Louis Beck in Wilberforce, Ohio at the April 4, 2018 event.

Central State University Celebrates Student Academic Excellence during its 2018 Honors Day Convocation

WILBERFORCE, OH - More than 325 Central State University students will be recognized for outstanding academic achievement during the University’s Annual Honors Day Convocation on Tuesday, April 3, 2018.

All students honored have a 3.2 grade point average or above. Class Honors will be given to those with GPAs up to 3.49 and College Honors will be giving to those with GPAs of 3.5 and above. This year’s theme is “Above and Beyond in the Pursuit of Excellence.”

The event, which begins at 10 am, will take place in the Paul Robeson Cultural & Performing Arts Center. The public is invited to attend.

This year’s class of honors students in the largest in the past two years. High achieving seniors receive special Gold Cord Honors. The person in each class with the highest GPA is recognized as a Top Scholar.

The 2017 Top Scholars are:

• Mr. Daniel Ntakiyinanira, Columbus, OH, Senior Class Scholar
• Ms. Arame Diouf, Dakar, Senegal, Junior Class Scholar
• Mr. Jehan Wagenaar, Xenia, OH, Sophomore Class Scholar
• Ms. Jazlyn Visor, Carmel, IN, Freshman Class Scholar

Ms. Diouf, the Junior Class Scholar, has been the top scholar of her class for the past two consecutive years. Mr. Wagenaar, the Sophomore Class Scholar, is a College Credit Plus student attending Central State.

Two Central State Students Receive a Leadership Award for Spearheading a Letter-Writing Campaign

WILBERFORCE, OH. – Two Central State University students received youth leadership awards from the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument for spearheading a letter-writing campaign in support of recognition for Colonel Young.

The Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park may be 2,300 miles away in California’s southern Sierra Nevada mountains, but the impact that Colonel Young made there in the summer of 1903 is still being remembered today. A California Assemblyman is sponsoring an effort to rename a road leading into the park for Colonel Young, the namesake of the National Monument located in Wilberforce. Through the efforts of Kristin Johnson and Sydney Johnson, more than 180 letters were written and sent in support of that effort.

On March 15, the two students received the Brandon Billips Youth Service Leadership Award, named after Billips, who was a CSU graduate and the first intern at the Charles Young Monument. The event was a celebration of Colonel Young’s 154th birthday. Also, Attorney Benjamin L. Crump received one of two Trail Blazer Awards.

Dr. Joy G. Kinard, Superintendent of the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument, said the two sisters received the honor because their volunteer-efforts exceeded expectations.

Both work at the Charles Young Monument. After hearing about the campaign, the two built a strategy to solicit as many letters as possible. Sydney Johnson, a CSU Junior, said it was fun “creating a small piece of history.” More than half of the 180 letters came from CSU students and employees, she said.

Colonel Young was the first African American superintendent of a national park. He also was the third African American man to graduate with his commission from the US Military Academy at West Point. While commanding a black company at the Presidio of San Francisco, Young received orders to take his troops to Sequoia National Park. Their task - complete the first road to the Giant Forest, making the grove with giant sequoia trees easily accessible for the first time. On the day the road opened, modern tourism began in Sequoia National Park, according to the Park.

Sydney Johnson said it was an honor to receive the award. “I was more humbled by the award not because of the task I was given..but because I was given an award named after Brandon Billips. He created such a love for me of Central State University,” she said. Also at the March 15 event, the University’s Student Government Association was named Volunteer of the Year for helping to recruit student volunteers for the National Monument, and Mr. Gorgui Ndao was named Volunteer Educator of the Year for his work with the Seed to Bloom Ag-STEM Institute Camp. Cadets from CSU’s Marauder Battalion were also recognized for helping out at a Buffalo Soldiers Pep Rally during Black History Month.

Congressman Mike Turner Presents Black History Month Congressional Award for Community Service to Central State University Chorus Director Jeremy Winston

GERMANTOWN, OH. - This weekend, Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10) presented the Black History Month Congressional Award for Community Service to Central State University Professor Jeremy Winston.

“Jeremy’s talented voice is critical to our community,” said Congressman Turner. “His leadership at Central State University as the Chorus Director is shaping the next generation of Miami Valley’s minds. I am proud to recognize his service by presenting him with the third annual Black History Month Congressional Award for Community Service.”

Winston, who is assistant professor of music and CSU Chorus director, said, “This honor is special to me because I take it as an endorsement of my commitment to the work of educating the population of students at Central State University.” He continued by saying, “This education comes in the form of music-making at a world-class level. With our group of dedicated musicians and leaders, I know that we can capture the imagination and admiration of Ohio, the nation, and the world.”

Winston joined Central State University in 2013 and assumed leadership of the world-renowned CSU Chorus to continue its legacy of excellence in choral music. The 45-member choir has performed at the White House and abroad at the Vatican, throughout China and across Europe, where they performed for sold-out audiences including in Prague, Czech Republic with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra.

“We are pleased that Congressman Turner selected Mr. Winston as the recipient of this award,” said Dr. Cynthia Jackson-Hammond, president of Central State University.  “Mr. Jeremy Winston is an outstanding conductor and musical maestro of extraordinary talent! To have this distinguished musician of international acclaim is of immense value to our students, the CSU community and to the professional profile of the University.”

The Chorus appears on several Telarc International CD recordings: The Best of Erich Kunzel, Gershwin Centennial Edition, Play Ball, Blue Monday, Porgy and Bess, and Amen: A Gospel Celebration which was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1994. In January 2015, they were invited by Governor John Kasich to perform at his inauguration.

“Like Mr. Winston, Central State University has a wide array of co-curricular programs designed to educate, build leadership, cultivate talents and develop team camaraderie,” said Jackson-Hammond. “We are so fortunate to have his talents shared with young musical aspirants.”

The Chorus is set to release a live-recorded CD this year to include its most requested song, “Total Praise,” and songs from well-known movies such as Porgy and Bess, Dreamgirls, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Ray.

Central State University, based in Wilberforce, Ohio, is an 1890 regionally accredited Land-Grant University with two Ohio Centers of Excellence in Emerging Technologies and in Fine and Performing Arts. U.S. News and World Report has ranked the University the third most affordable University nationwide for out-of-state students and it is the most affordable University in Ohio.

131 Charter Day Convocation

More than 700 people Celebrated Central State University during its Annual Charter Day Convocation

For 131 years, Central State University has stood as a bright shining light of hope for thousands of students. During Tuesday’s Charter Day Convocation, Speaker Cook County Commissioner Richard R. Boykin challenged more than 700 people to use that light to set the world on fire.

“This has been our house for 131 years. This has been our home. I encourage you to let your light shine,” Boykin said. “I challenge you today to light your candle and set the world on fire.”

At the Charter Day Convocation, Central State paused to reflect on over a century of academic excellence and on molding students into productive professionals. Faculty, staff, students, alumni and members of the community celebrated the University’s rich history and future vision.

“This is a place where you can develop things you never dreamed of,” said 2018 Alumni Achievement Hall of Fame Inductee William H. Wiley.

Alumna Lisa Peterson, who also was inducted into the Alumni Achievement Hall of Fame, said, “I am only a leader or a success story because of Central State University.”

Seven CSU alumni were inducted into the Alumni Achievement Hall of Fame. They were:

• Mr. Gonzalo J. Rodriguez, Sr., deceased, Class of 1952. He was faculty manager where he successfully operated and managed the Central State University Bookstore for 26 years. Mr. Rodriguez became affectionately known as “Mr. Bookstore."
  
  

• Mr. David A. Lister, deceased, Class of 1962. He supported his alma mater on many levels throughout the years. His legacy and inspiration led to three subsequent generations of family members to follow his path by attending and graduating from Central State.
  
  

• Mr. William H. Wiley, Richton Park, IL., Class of 1963.  Mr. Wiley has been involved with the Central State Chicago Alumni Chapter for almost 50 years.  He has been instrumental in leading a class that has exhibited for 54 years a sense of giving back to Central State. The class of 1963, under his leadership, has raised more money during the classes in reunion campaign than any other class.
  
  

• Colonel Brad M. Beasley, Atlanta, GA., Class of 1973. After completing his studies at CSU, Colonel Beasley served as a U.S. Army Officer for more than 25 years. He is Airborne and Ranger qualified and attended the United States Army Command and General Staff College and the United States Army War College.  During his Army career, he commanded at the Company, Battalion and Brigade levels of leadership.
  
  

• Ms. Deborah Perkins, Chicago, IL., Class of 1973. A Central State University Foundation Trustee, Ms. Perkins is the past president of the Chicago Alumni Chapter. During her tenure as president from 1997 to 2004, membership grew from 15 paid members to more than 200 paid members. She has recruited more than 500 students to attend Central State. She not only has recruited them, she has assisted them in getting financial assistance to complete their years at Central State University.
  
  

• Ms. Marcella A. Sampson, Huber Heights, OH., Class of 1974. Ms. Sampson, who has worked for every CSU president, except President Cynthia Jackson-Hammond, has held numerous positions at the University, but was best known as the Director of the Career Services Center and the Dean of Students.
  
  

• Ms. Lisa M. Peterson, Springfield, OH., Class of 1987. Ms. Peterson is a distinguished educational administrator, who is the Principal of Cox Elementary in the Xenia Community Schools district.  Her support of Central State’s student teachers is strong. Students seeking onsite practices are welcomed into her building and are provided a global experience to practice and develop their teaching skills in a classroom setting.
  
  

CSU President Dr. Cynthia Jackson-Hammond said, “I ask all of you…keep your eyes looking forward, the past gives us the foundation….But it is our future that defines our relevance.”

“’Let us collectively have the will to move Central State to heights unknown,” President Jackson-Hammond said.

University Invests Close to $2M on Safety and Security Upgrades

WILBERFORCE, OH – Central State University is taking several crucial steps to upgrade its safety and security systems on campus by adding lighting, security cameras and a new emergency alert system.

Approximately $2M is being spent, with the largest investment going toward the installation of 460 new, state-of-the-art, high-definition video security cameras. These cameras are in addition to the 60-plus cameras already installed at the new University Student Center in October 2015.

The video cameras have been placed in strategic locations around campus to monitor parking areas, residence halls, stairwells, academic buildings, corridors, and other high circulation areas. Many cameras are concealed, thus increasing the ability to monitor activity on campus. Video taken by the surveillance cameras is DVR recorded and available to law enforcement and campus safety personnel at all times. The video quality in some areas is able to show vehicle license plate numbers and facial recognition. In addition, exterior lighting upgrades have been completed.

Charles Shahid, chief government officer for the University, said, “This video system gives us surveillance of critical gathering places, parking lots and common areas in residence hall, and gives the Office of Public Safety points of view to react quickly to ensure student and staff safety.” Newly installed data and fiber systems, paid for with another $3M, help to connect all campus buildings. A new 10GB fiber-optic backbone allows for the high-speed transfer of data and video across the new University network.

Central State has chosen Alertus, an emergency mass notification system, for its campus-wide alert system. Alertus sends immediate text messages to students, faculty and staff, and to audio/visual beacons that will be installed indoors and outdoors around campus. The beacons will sound alarms and give verbal instructions to persons to seek shelter in an emergency. The system also will "take over" video monitors in buildings, and computers in computer labs to provide emergency response notifications once the system is activated by emergency response buttons at campus police operations center or the City of Xenia 911 dispatch center, which covers the campus at present. Other universities that use Alertus include Ohio State University, Michigan State University and University of Virginia.

The video camera project will be completed in March. The Alertus System will be implemented Fall, 2018.

Central State University Theatre Arts Program Presents The Drowning and Innervisions

WILBERFORCE, OH – The 2018 Central State University Theatre Arts Program will feature two new works, one written and directed by a CSU alum, and the second one highlighting the works of Stevie Wonder.

The Drowning, written and directed by CSU Alumnus Ethan Stewart, will be performed on March 9-10. The Drowning chronicles the experience of young African-Americans as they transition from secondary school to a university educational experience. The play, performed by CSU students, unfolds from dilemma to success as the characters adjust and then prosper in the face of new surroundings and challenges. Stewart, who is a native of Cleveland, graduated in 2016. He currently resides in Fairborn, Ohio.

“Mr. Stewart’s play provides insight into the challenges of first-year college students,” said John Fleming, Title III Activity Director. “The show follows a group of students from their high school graduation party, through the first day in the dorm at Central State University, and onto finding themselves in new educational horizons and personal goals.”

Innervisions is a theatre production based on Stevie Wonder’s 1973 album of the same name. The play contains many of Stevie Wonder’s most popular songs including “Living For The City,” “Higher Ground,” “Don’t You Worry ’Bout A Thing,” and “He’s Misstra Know It All.” It uses the songs of the album as both a soundtrack for dance and an inspiration for playwriting.

Students from CSU have written speeches that accompany the music and dancing that reflect on the meaning of Stevie Wonder’s songs within a contemporary context. Dancers from the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company2 will perform in the production, which is March 16-17.

Innervisions is choreographed by DCDC Artistic Director Debbie Blunden-Diggs and directed by Fleming. It features musical direction by Deron Bell, media art by Basim Blunt and costumes by Ayn Wood.

Both performances will take in the Paul Robeson Cultural and Performing Arts Center on campus. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Ticket costs for both productions are by donation at the door. The 2018 Theatre Arts Program is presented by Central State University’s Title III Program in conjunction with the Department of Fine and Performing Arts.

Central State University will pilot an American Democracy Project Initiative to Improve Student Political and Civic Engagement

Wilberforce, OH – Central State University has been selected to partner with a national project to train students to be informed and engaged citizens.

The American Democracy Project (ADP), a program of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), is starting a new two-year initiative to improve nonpartisan student political learning and participation. Twelve colleges and universities have been selected to work with researchers from the Institute for Democracy & Higher Education (IDHE) at Tufts University to pilot processes for engaging campus communities in measuring, understanding and improving campus climates in order to ensure that all students are prepared to be informed, engaged citizens. Central State is the only Ohio university selected.

Amanda Antico, executive director of AASCU’s American Democracy Project, said, "Too few young Americans participate in even the most fundamental forms of civic engagement, such as voting. Unequal participation results in unequal representation. These conditions obstruct our ability as a nation to address and resolve complex social and political problems, which is why this initiative is important and necessary. ADP hopes to educate, inspire and prepare college students for a life of active civic engagement in order to cultivate a more vibrant democracy."

The goal of the American Democracy Project is to produce graduates who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and experiences they need to be informed, engaged members of their communities.

Nancy Thomas, IDHE Director, said, "Colleges and universities play a critical role in ensuring the health and future of our democracy."

As part of the project, Central State and the other Universities will develop an approach to assessing and changing campus climates for political learning and engagement, as well as a set of interventions for other campuses to use. The campuses will serve as a model, so other campuses can learn about how to cultivate campus climates that best prepare students with the necessary knowledge, skills and commitment to political learning and participation.

Central State University is Selected to Participate in a State Effort to Push College Completion

WILBERFORCE, OH - Central State University will participate in a statewide effort to increase college completion rates for historically underserved student populations. As part of the University’s focus on completion and retention, it has also created an Undergraduate Student Success Center.

The Ohio Department of Higher Education was one of four entities in the country selected to receive a $2.1 million grant from Strong Start to Finish. The organization aims to significantly increase the number and proportion of low-income students, students of color and returning adults who succeed in college math and English and who enter a program of study in their first year of college.

ODHE Chancellor John Carey said, “Our overarching goals are to put all students on a path to a successful future and to ensure that our businesses have the skilled workers they need to succeed.”

“This grant will go a long way in pursuit of those goals while supporting students as they begin their postsecondary journey,” he said.

As part of the application process, ODHE reached out to the presidents of 13 of Ohio’s public universities and the state’s 23 community colleges to determine their interest in participating in the grant opportunity. In order to participate, colleges and universities had to agree to develop institutional goals, including specific goals to reduce equity gaps; assemble a campus leadership team; outline the campus’ initiatives related to Strong Start to Finish goals; and develop goals for increasing the percentage of students completing their gateway math and English courses and entering a program of study in their first year.

Central State University President Dr. Cynthia Jackson-Hammond said, “we have already examined how we teach math and English and how to link resources to support that.” This effort, she said, is to “try to help freshmen students get through the gateway classes.”

Central State recently created an Undergraduate Student Success Center after expanding resources to focus more heavily on retention. The Center, formerly University College, focuses on holistic student development. The overarching goal of the USSC is to provide academic and social support services to aid the University in increasing its student success rates, said Dr. Gene Moore, Jr., executive director.

The Student Success Center added the Office of Retention and three Retention Specialists, who focus on academic persistence, bolstering retention rates and degree completion. The three units housed in the Undergraduate Student Success Center also changed names to remain aligned with the mission of this critical unit.

• The Office of Academic Advising and Assistance is now the Office of Academic Coaching and Advising (OACA) and has added coaching as a key component.
• The Learning Skills Center has become The Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services (OASIS).
• The Office of First Year Experience has become the Office of Retention. The efforts support the University’s Compelling Priority #4, which is Higher Retention Rate.

Central State University and the City of Trotwood Partner to Provide Educational and Community Development Activities

WILBERFORCE, OH. – Central State University will open a satellite office in Trotwood, OH. as part of a partnership with the city to provide educational and community development activities.

The partnership, through the University’s Extension Service, will include creating a center focused on community-based educational programming.

"With the City of Trotwood being 2/3rds rural as well as the number of alumni who reside in our community, it was only a natural fit that we partner with Central State University to bring agricultural programming to the City," Trotwood Mayor Mary A. McDonald said.

Dr. Alton B. Johnson, Central State Dean and Director, College of Science and Engineering 1890 Land-Grant Programs, said, “As a land-grant institution, our Extension and Research activities bring vital and practical information to agricultural producers, small business owners, consumers, families, and young people.”

“Central State’s partnership with the city of Trotwood provides a real opportunity to impact the lives of local families through nutrition education, health and wellness activities and youth leadership development.”

On Jan. 12, Central State President Dr. Cynthia Jackson-Hammond and Mayor Mary McDonald signed the official memorandum of understanding. The agreement gives Central State a presence in northwest Montgomery County. Central State Extension services will be located in the Trotwood Civic and Cultural Arts Center.

As an 1890 Land-Grant University, Central State’s model of teaching, research and extension focuses on student development, cutting-edge research and providing critical knowledge to farmers and urban and rural communities. The University currently has extension agents in seven Ohio counties, including Greene County. Extension services focus on five key areas:

• Improving Agriculture, Plant Sciences and Economics
• Creating Youth Pathways to Success
• Developing Better Social and Economically Sustainable Communities
• Empowering Families and Communities
• Expanded Food Nutrition Education Program

Central State University’s Regional Economic Impact Totals More Than $143 Million

WILBERFORCE, OH. –Central State University’s economic impact, for fiscal year 2016, on Greene and Montgomery Counties totaled $143.7 million through operational spending, students spending and capital expenditures.

The University, a vibrant business enterprise, directly supported 655 jobs and indirectly supported another 341 full-and part-time jobs in the two-county regions, according to Central State’s Economic and Fiscal Impacts report.

The report, prepared by the University of Cincinnati Economics Center, is part of an Economic Impact Study commissioned by the Southwestern Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE), to gauge the economic impact of colleges and Universities in the region. SOCHE’s Economic Impact Study shows that the total impact of all 22 member institutions was $7.3 billion in fiscal year 2016. For every dollar spent, approximately 72 cents in additional economic activity occurred.

Ninety percent of the $60.5 million Central State spent on operations was “new” money brought into the region. Because of Central State’s increased activity in the area, $87.9 million was generated in Greene and Montgomery counties.

“As a driver of the economy, the impact this University has is undeniable,” said Curtis Pettis, Vice President for Administration and Finance & CFO. “Our focus is to continue to seek innovative ways to build business partnerships and to drive economic vitality that benefits the University and local communities.”

Central State is a collaborative partner with the City of Xenia, the YMCA, Clark State Community College, the Xenia Adult Recreation and Services Center and Kettering Health Network to support the Recreation, Education, Activity, Community and Health (REACH) Center in Xenia. The Center will serve Xenia and Greene County residents' health, workforce, recreation, education and wellness needs.

Xenia City Manager Brent Merriman said, “this study confirms what we have believed and recognized for years about the vital importance of Central State University and its impact upon our region, and upon the City of Xenia. Not only is CSU’s importance measured in educational attainment for thousands of students who have graduated over the years, but also in hard dollars that directly impact businesses and organizations throughout the City of Xenia.  The SOCHE report further exemplifies why partnering with Central State University not only makes good sense educationally, but makes good economic sense as well for the future sustainability of many businesses in and around Xenia.”

With the main campus in Wilberforce and CSU-Dayton in Montgomery County, Central State’s regional presence offers a variety of educational and workforce opportunities. As a regionally accredited 1890 Land-Grant Institution, Central State University is increasing its presence throughout the state of Ohio with increased emphasis on research and extension services.

Central State University Student Studies in Cyprus to Test a Proactive Solution for Harmful Algal Blooms

WILBERFORCE, OH. -  CSU Junior Daniel Lee has travelled half way around the world to research and test an idea that could prevent Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), which are threatening the world’s potable water supply.

Lee is testing remote sensing techniques in the Eastern Mediterranean Levantine basin by using Alunite stones to extract excess phosphorous from contaminated water to help prevent the growth of algal blooms. This semester he is studying abroad at the University of Nicosia.

In Ohio, algal blooms, which present as blueish green algae, are often the result of excess phosphorus and nitrogen in water. Lee said he came up with the idea because a primary cause of the blooms in lakes is nutrient runoff after farmers apply fertilizers on their crops. Lee has been working with test farms, selected by the University of Nicosia, to place Alunite stones along the edges of planting fields to help filter soluble phosphorous.

“I will be conducting this research,” said Lee, who is an environmental engineering and water resources management major. “This is a global epidemic,” he said. “Public organizations around the world are collaborating and partnering with Universities to share data and ideas.”

Central State’s International Center for Water Resources Management has been involved in research in Ohio to create a forecasting model to predict the arrival and toxicity of HABs on Lake Erie. The University was invited by the Ohio Board of Regents to work with three other colleges to examine Lake Erie’s harmful algal blooms (HAB) and lake water quality.

Lee is the first CSU student to travel to Cyprus as part of a partnership between the University of Nicosia’s (UNIC) Environmental Engineering Department and CSU’s International Center for Water Resources Management (ICWRM). Dr. Krishna Kumar Nedunuri, Chairperson of the Department of Water Resources Management and Director of the ICWRM, said this study abroad program is the first step in future collaboration with the University of Nicosia in the areas of student and faculty exchanges in training, development, and research. Dr. Fahmi Abboushi, Director of CSU’s Center for Global Education, initiated the partnership by introducing UNIC to programs at ICWRM.

Lee spent the spring and summer participating in various research opportunities. Last spring, he traveled to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for a training program on how to synthesize biofuels and other alternative fuels from food waste. Over the summer, he, along with CSU student Jasmine Walker, worked with The Ohio State University’s Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP) where he worked in the STRIVE Labs, which stands for Stream River and Ecology Labs. There he also investigated the release of nutrients entering the water supply and causing algal blooms. He completed a six-week internship with the Northeastern Ohio Regional Sewer District and conducted tests to assess the effectiveness of microorganisms in wastewater treatment.

“Being at Central State has been a great experience. There definitely has been a lot of opportunities,” said Lee, of Los Angeles, Calif. “CSU has more opportunities per capita than most institutions because it is small. You are able to cultivate relationships with the dean. The director of the program is my academic advisor.

“At Central State, you understand that you are a part of something greater,” Lee said. “I realize long-term I want to apply chemical engineering to solve environmental issues.”

World-Renowned Central State University Chorus To Record a Live CD

WILBERFORCE, OH. – The vocal artistry and majesty of a Central State University Chorus performance will now be available to be shared via recording as the Chorus prepares for a live-recording.

The world-acclaimed Chorus, which has performed around the world, will bring that sense of excitement and awe to new audiences so that more people in the United States can be exposed to what international audiences have witnessed, said Chorus Director Jeremy Winston. “We want to capture this great musical experience that the choir presents in concert travelling around the world and performing in world-class concert halls,” Winston said.

The live recorded concert will occur at 6 pm on Sunday, Dec. 3. The concert will take place at Central State’s Paul Robeson Cultural & Performing Arts Center.  Winston said, “we decided to have it in The Paul Robeson Cultural & Performing Arts Complex because this iconic structure is a representation of the rich musical tradition of Central State University.”

Admission is $2 for students with an ID and $5 for the general public. Winston said the audience can expect to experience the full range of the Chorus’ repertoire - classical, jazz, gospel, spirituals and music from the movies.

Backed by a full orchestra, the Chorus will perform its most requested song, “Total Praise,” and songs from well-known movies such as Porgy and Bess, Dreamgirls, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Ray, Winston said.

In addition, the Chorus will sing some holiday classics. But when asked what is the Chorus’ favorites songs, Winston said “Psalm 57,” which is a classical song; the hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness”; and the spiritual, “Even Me.”

The Chorus, which is 45 members strong, consists of students representing freshmen through seniors. “We’ve got a lot of new singers and this is a new ensemble but they sound magnificent,” Winston said.

The CSU Chorus has performed at The White House for their annual holiday celebration at the invitation of First Lady Michelle Obama and for Ohio Governor John Kasich’s inauguration. In addition, the Chorus has also performed in over a dozen major international cities including Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, Spain; Prague, Czech Republic; Durbach, Germany; and Straussburg, France.

This is not the first time the Chorus has recorded. In 1993, the Chorus performed with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, resulting in the Telarc International CD, A Gospel Celebration, Amen. The disk was nominated for a Grammy Award and also featured Jennifer Holliday, Maureen McGovern, and Lou Rawls. The Chorus was featured on Blue Monday and Porgy and Bess for Telarc and The Cincinnati Pops.

Refraze Recording Studio in Kettering will record the Dec. 3 performance. The resulting CD should be ready in February. Winston said proceeds raised from the $10 cost will benefit scholarship, attire and travel for the choir. Concert tickets can be purchased online at: http://centralstate.universitytickets.com/user_pages/event.asp?id=411&cid=49