MARIETTA, OHIO—In April, Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO) hosted the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC) Leadership Academy for Student Success 2021-2022 cohort on its campus. The meeting was part of the yearlong training fellowship for mid-level faculty and staff from Ohio’s 23 community colleges.
The OACC Leadership Academy, established in 2019, creates a connection between the state’s community colleges to share and develop strategies for improving student success. During the training held at Washington State, participating fellows discussed a variety of topics, including, managing and advancing institutional change. They focused on understanding how to think strategically about institutional finance to advance change. They also explored proven change management strategies that have helped to transform colleges.
“The opportunities provided by this academy are fortifying the future of higher education. We are developing academic leaders who have a deep and meaningful understanding of the transformational changes being adopted across the state that are focused on improving student success,” said Wood.
The session was facilitated by Dr. Lenore Rodicio, a senior fellow of the College Excellence Program at The Aspen Institute and a nationally recognized leader in higher education. WSCO’s President Dr. Vicky Wood and Marion Technical College President Dr. Ryan McCall also spoke on building strong and effective teams.
Representing WSCO this year are Dean of Transfer and Public Service Dr. Jona Rinard and Assistant Professor of English Don Godfrey. “Our networking has proven invaluable. I’ve connected with [other fellows] to gather information and resources that have helped me make important departmental decisions and likewise, they’ve reached out to me to offer insight and advice based on work being done here at WSCO,” said Rinard.
From an educator’s perspective, Godfrey said the fellowship has given him insight into how he can become a force for positive change at Washington State. “I have learned so much from [my leadership team’s] expertise in institutional research, grant writing, and the intricacies of the state funding model. They have given me a more complete picture on all aspects of student success.”
This class of fellows has one more session before their training is complete. WSCO has selected Network Administrator Ben Harris and Director of Respiratory Therapy Adrienne Hellinger to take part in the 2022-2023 academy.
