Conversations with Owens Community College President Dr. Dione D. Somerville: Recent Episodes
Dr. Dione D. Somerville
“Conversations with Owens Community College President Dr. Dione D. Somerville” is an award-winning podcast featuring a variety of leaders in education, public service, business and civic life. Host Dr. Dione D. Somerville is the president of Owens Community College, a premier two-year college serving students across Northwest Ohio. Dr. Somerville engages each guest with critical questions about their education, career and professional perspective on key issues impacting the community. Dr. Somerville is a senior leader in higher education whose accomplishments include student success, organizational change and community relations. She earned her doctorate in Higher Education Management from the University of Pennsylvania, her master’s degree from Bowling Green State University, and her bachelor’s degree from Ohio Northern University.
Produced by Herbey Atkinson '17
Station Manager, Owens Student Media Center
Music by Josh Jump '21
Music Business Technology
Jami Williamson, M.S., CSCS, TSAC-F is a professor and program facilitator of Exercise Science at Owens Community College, where she brings more than 30 years of experience in health, fitness and education to the classroom. A passionate educator and mentor, Jami was honored with the 2025 Dale P. Parnell Faculty Distinction Recognition from the American Association of Community Colleges, a national award that celebrates faculty who consistently go above and beyond for their students.
Jami holds a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology from Eastern Michigan University, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toledo, and completed undergraduate coursework in nursing at Ohio State University. She is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and a Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
At Owens, Jami teaches a wide range of courses, including Introduction to Exercise Science, Strength and Conditioning, Exercise Physiology and Personal Wellness. She is also a mentor in the Honors Program and actively contributes to curriculum development, course scheduling and advisory board leadership. Prior to joining Owens full-time, she taught at Monroe County Community College and worked as an exercise physiologist, personal trainer and strength coach in both clinical and athletic settings.
Jami believes in empowering students through education, emphasizing the importance of understanding how the body adapts to exercise, tailoring programs to individual needs and developing effective communication skills. She is passionate about preparing the next generation of health and wellness professionals to meet the evolving needs of the industry—and helping every student discover what’s possible for their future.
Dr. Karen A. Stout has served as president and CEO of Achieving the Dream since 2015. Achieving the Dream is a network of over 300 community colleges working to become profoundly accessible hubs of learning, credentialing and economic mobility that eliminate inequities in educational and workforce outcomes.
Dr. Stout has received national recognition for her achievements and accomplishments in higher education innovation and leadership. In 2022, she was awarded the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Leadership Award and entered the organization’s Hall of Fame. She was named the American Association for Women in Community College’s Woman of the Year in 2017, Diverse: Issues in Higher Education’s Leading Women in 2018, one of Washington Monthly’s 16 most innovative higher education leaders in 2016,to Washingtonian’s 500 most influential people list in 2023, and one of Ed Tech’s 30 higher education IT influencers to follow in 2023. She is the recipient of the Robert Zemsky Medal for Innovation in Higher Education, among many recognitions. Dr. Stout has also earned honorary degrees from Miami Dade College and Montgomery County Community College. In 2023 she was recognized by the Harford County Historical Society as one of 50 most Notable Athletes in the 250-year history of the county.
Dr. Stout currently serves as chair of the Belk Center for Community College Leadership and Research Advisory Board at North Carolina State University, as co-chair of the University of Maryland Global Campus Doctorate of Management in Community College Policy and Administration Advisory Board, and is a member of the Common App Board of Directors, College Promise National Advisory Board and the Community College Research Center Advisory Board. In 2022, Dr. Stout was nominated by President Biden and confirmed by the Senate to serve a six-year term as a member of the National Council on the Humanities.
Prior to serving as president and CEO at Achieving the Dream, Dr. Stout was president of Montgomery County Community College (MCCC) (PA) from 2001 to 2015, where she led the college through a transformation process to improve student success. Prior to her presidency at Montgomery, Dr. Stout held leadership positions at Camden County College from 1994 to 2001, including vice president/campus executive officer. She started her community college career at her hometown community college, Harford Community College, in the admissions office. Dr. Stout taught for 15 years as an adjunct faculty member at Harford and Camden in marketing and management and later at Montgomery as part of the college’s honors colloquium.
She holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Delaware, a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Baltimore and a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Delaware. In recognition of her public service contributions, in 2014, the University of Delaware awarded her the prestigious President’s Leadership award.
Kristi Clouse is the senior managing director of Talent at JobsOhio, where she leads the organization's efforts to develop and implement innovative talent strategies that support business growth and workforce development across the state. In this role, she oversees JobsOhio’s Talent Acquisition Services (TAS) program, a unique incentive offering designed to help companies attract, hire and train skilled workers in Ohio’s key industries.
With a career spanning over two decades in economic and workforce development, Kristi has been instrumental in shaping Ohio’s economic landscape. She has been with JobsOhio since its inception in 2011, previously serving as executive director of Operations and director of Project Management. Before joining JobsOhio, she held various positions, including assistant director for the Ohio Department of Development’s Strategic Business Investment Division and vice president of the Allen Economic Development Group in Lima/Allen County, Ohio.
Kristi is a graduate of Bluffton University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in communication and business. She also completed the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute and Ohio’s Basic Economic Development Course. Her contributions to the field have been recognized with accolades such as the Lima Young Professional’s “2007 Emerging Young Professional of the Year” award and the 2008 West Central Ohio Business Journal’s “20 Under 40” business award.
Kristi’s leadership and dedication continue to drive JobsOhio’s mission to foster economic growth and talent development, making Ohio a competitive destination for businesses and a thriving place for its workforce.
Wendy Gramza is the President and CEO of the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce. She assumed this role on July 1, 2014, after serving as Executive Vice President for 11 years. During her over 25 years as a Chamber professional, she has also served as vice president of Business Development Services and held several other positions within the organization.
She is a graduate of the University of Toledo, holding a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Marketing. Wendy is also a graduate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organizational Management.
Wendy is a participant in the Chief of Staff of the Air Force’s Civic Leadership Program and a member of the Toledo Chapter of Rotary International. She is a board member of Junior Achievement as well as a board member of the Boys & Girls Club of Toledo and the Alzheimer’s Association, Northwest Ohio Chapter. She is also a member of the Northwest Ohio Business Advisory Council.
Wendy received the prestigious 20 Under 40 Award in 2005, which recognizes the professional accomplishments of people in northwest Ohio under the age of 40.
She holds the designation of Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, and has been appointed to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100, an elite group of chamber chief executives that represents the perspectives and needs of chambers and their members to the U.S. Chamber.
Dave Robinson is the founder and principal of The Montrose Group, LLC, a national economic development and public affairs consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio. With more than 30 years of experience at the intersection of government, business and public policy, Dave is a recognized leader in economic development strategy, corporate site location and advocacy.
Dave has guided Fortune 500 companies, mid-sized firms and local governments through complex development projects, helping clients secure millions of dollars in incentives and successfully expand or relocate across multiple states. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping strategic economic development plans that drive growth and resilience in both rural and urban communities.
Before launching The Montrose Group, Dave served in several high-impact roles, including as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, Press Secretary for the Mayor of Columbus and general counsel for the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. These experiences gave him unique insight into the legislative, regulatory, and political processes that influence economic growth.
Dave is also an educator and author. He has written two books on economic development and regularly speaks at national conferences on public policy and business strategy. He has taught graduate and undergraduate courses at both Ohio State University and Bowling Green State University.
He holds a law degree from Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and completed advanced management training at the Fisher College of Business. He earned his undergraduate degree in Political Science from Bowling Green State University.
Through The Montrose Group, Dave continues to shape the future of communities and companies alike, building bridges between private-sector innovation and public-sector opportunity.
Avi Zaffini serves as president and CEO of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges, leading efforts to support and advocate for Ohio’s 23 community colleges and their leadership teams. Since stepping into the role in 2023, Avi has focused on strengthening workforce development initiatives, expanding partnerships and ensuring that Ohio’s community colleges remain a vital pathway to economic opportunity.
Before joining OACC, Avi was senior vice president of Business Engagement and Strategic Initiatives at the Ohio Business Roundtable, where he played a key role in business development, member engagement and private-sector initiatives. He also oversaw the Ohio CEO Summit, the state’s premier annual gathering of business leaders.
Avi’s career in public service includes serving as chief of staff in the Ohio Lt. Governor’s Office following Jon Husted’s election in 2019. He played a pivotal role in the DeWine-Husted gubernatorial transition and previously held leadership positions in the Ohio Secretary of State’s office. His experience in government and business has given him a deep understanding of how education, workforce development and economic growth intersect.
A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Avi completed two combat tours in Iraq in 2006 and 2009. His service instilled a lifelong commitment to leadership, discipline and public service. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Ohio State University.
With a career spanning government, business and education, Avi is dedicated to fostering collaboration between Ohio’s community colleges, employers and policymakers to create stronger opportunities for students and workers.
Mike Duffey was appointed the 11th Chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) in January 2024. In this role, he oversees Ohio’s two-year and four-year colleges, universities and Ohio Technical Centers, providing policy guidance to the Governor and General Assembly while implementing state higher education policy.
Prior to becoming Chancellor, Duffey served ODHE for five years as Senior Vice Chancellor, leading key policy initiatives, including transcript release, student debt relief, FAFSA completion, short-term credentials, Ohio’s College Comeback initiative and support for innovation and technology commercialization.
Before joining ODHE, he served eight years in the Ohio House of Representatives, where he chaired the Higher Education and Workforce Committee, vice-chaired the Joint Committee on College Affordability, and co-chaired the Ohio Tuition Trust Authority. As a legislator, he played a key role in giving the Chancellor authority to review special fees and enabling the state auditor to conduct performance audits of public colleges. He also sponsored the legislation that created JobsOhio.
Duffey has held leadership roles beyond ODHE, serving as the Governor’s designee on the Midwestern Higher Education Compact and chairing the State Committee on Computer Science. From 2019 to 2021, he also served as Deputy Director of InnovateOhio, an initiative supporting innovation and entrepreneurship.
In addition to his education policy work, Duffey played a pivotal role in the legal efforts that saved the Columbus Crew soccer franchise, earning him the Spirit of Columbus award from The Columbus Foundation.
Chancellor Duffey holds an MBA from Ohio State University and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Michigan.
Arturo Polizzi is the president and chief executive officer of ProMedica, a leading not-for-profit healthcare system headquartered in Toledo, Ohio. Polizzi is an experienced executive with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital and healthcare industry. He is highly skilled in nonprofit organizations, strategy, operations, team building and business development.
A first-generation college student, Arturo’s journey began at Miami University, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Business. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor in Law from the University of Toledo and later his Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Michigan.
Arturo started his career in 1998 at ProMedica as an in-house attorney. Over the past 25-plus years, he has served in various strategic and operational roles at the organization, including associate general counsel, chief human resources officer and president of the metro Toledo ProMedica hospitals. Before returning to ProMedica as the chief operating officer in 2020, Polizzi served as the president and CEO at Christ Hospital Health Network in Cincinnati.
Carla Benjamin is a dedicated community leader and advocate for hope, equity and opportunity. She is a graduate of the University of Findlay, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish Business with a minor in Business Administration. Her educational foundation, combined with her lived experience, has fueled her passion for supporting individuals and families striving for a better future.
As executive director of Welcome to a New Life, Carla plays a pivotal role in guiding individuals on the path to personal transformation. Her career is rooted in service, with past roles as a Member Service Coordinator for the Chamber of Commerce, a Sales Representative at WKXA 100.5 and a long tenure at The Ohio Bank.
Beyond her professional achievements, Carla actively contributes to key community initiatives. She serves as co-chair of the Hancock County Community Coalition on Addiction - Community Awareness Committee and is a member of the Affordable Housing Alliance, the Community Corrections Planning Board and the Community Advisory Committee. She is a past member of the Hancock County Cultural Humility/Health Equity Delegation and past board member for Cancer Patient Services.
Carla's leadership is further strengthened by her Minority Executive Leadership Certificate and her Certificate for Nonprofit Management from the Toledo Center for Nonprofit Resources. As the daughter of a migrant worker who overcame cycles of poverty, illiteracy and addiction, Carla’s story reflects her belief that everyone deserves hope and a second chance. She now works tirelessly to help others understand that, with hard work and determination, they too can create a new life for themselves and their families.
Toledo Tomorrow was founded in 2018 as the northwest Ohio region’s first College & Career Access Group, and has worked to build broad and diverse educational & community partnerships, and achieved good changes and progress. Toledo Tomorrow’s mission is to eliminate barriers to student success and ensure that all students and adults, regardless of race, ZIP code or life circumstance, have a pathway to complete a meaningful education and enter the workforce.
President Bob Savage has strong ties to the regional community's education, nonprofit, government, business and philanthropic sectors. Savage is a member of the Ohio College Access and Success Network, Ohio Attainment Coalition and Ohio Cradle2Career Network. He has served on the Toledo Community Foundation Investment Committee, Toledo and Lucas County Plan Commissions, UTMC Provost Advisory Committee and the Downtown Toledo Rotary Chapter.
Savage is the Founder and President of Savage Consulting, which has been in business for over 20 years. Savage raised capital for the first local private-public venture fund under the State’s Third Frontier program, and then northwest Ohio’s first private venture fund in over 20 years, and its most successful fund, CoreNetwork Fund. At the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, Savage majored in Finance and Entrepreneurial Management.
Laura Koprowski is the chief executive officer of the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA). She has amassed more than 20 years of leadership in transportation, strategic planning, communications and public policy. Her career is marked by successful collaborations with public officials, civic organizations and businesses, driving partnerships that fuel organizational growth and regional transformation.
Laura holds a Master of Public Administration from Bowling Green State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Ohio University. Her educational background in public service has been foundational to her success in developing innovative programs and leading organizational change.
Before becoming CEO in 2021, Laura served as TARTA’s deputy chief executive officer and chief communications and customer experience officer, where she implemented strategic marketing and communications plans and cultivated a customer-centric culture. She has also served as executive director of the Ohio Public Transit Association (OPTA) and vice president of Government Affairs and Communications at the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA).
With a proven track record in policy advocacy, organizational transformation and brand development, Laura is committed to advancing public transportation and improving mobility options for the Toledo region. She continues to lead TARTA with a focus on innovation, collaboration, and service excellence, positioning the agency as a leader in the transit industry.
Laura’s passion for sustainable transportation and her forward-thinking leadership make her a key advocate for public transit at both the state and federal levels.
Jim Hoffman, retired president of KeyBank in Ohio, has made a lasting impact on the financial industry and the broader Ohio community over his distinguished career. His leadership and dedication to fostering economic growth in the region have earned him a reputation as a trusted figure in banking and finance.
Jim's educational background laid the foundation for his successful career. He attended the University of Toledo, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration. His academic pursuits equipped him with the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of the financial sector.
He is also the past Regional Growth Partnership (RGP) Chair.
Throughout his career with KeyBank, Jim held various leadership roles that showcased his ability to drive growth and foster strong relationships with both clients and colleagues. As president of KeyBank’s Ohio operations, he played a pivotal role in enhancing the bank’s presence in the region while supporting numerous community and economic development initiatives. Under his leadership, KeyBank became a key player in Ohio’s financial landscape, contributing to business growth and the local economy.
Even in retirement, Jim remains committed to his community, serving on various boards and lending his expertise to initiatives that support economic development, financial literacy, and educational advancement. His legacy is one of leadership, innovation and an unwavering dedication to the well-being of his community.
Roger Smith has been a key figure in the glass industry of Northwest Ohio for more than 20 years. His journey began with an associate degree from Owens Community College, followed by a bachelor's in Electrical Engineering from the University of Toledo. Roger then went on to earn his MBA from Bowling Green State University.
Throughout his career, Roger has held various influential roles, including more than two decades with O-I Glass Incorporated, a leader in the advanced manufacturing industry. His roles ranged from leading packaging technology research and innovation to emerging technology leadership, bringing significant advancements to the glass container industry. His wealth of experience in research, innovation and management positions him as an expert in advanced manufacturing and packaging technology.
Roger currently serves as the president of the Northwest Ohio Innovation Consortium, an organization dedicated to fostering collaboration among private sector industry, education, workforce development and economic development in Northwest Ohio. His leadership and vision continue to make a significant impact on the region's competitiveness and technological growth.
Roger’s contributions to the industry are recognized by his deep knowledge of continuous improvement and innovation, as evidenced by several patents he holds in the field of packaging and manufacturing.
Nicole Buchanan is a dedicated and accomplished professional in dental hygiene. A 2013 graduate of Owens Community College in dental hygiene, Nicole earned her bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University and a master’s degree in public health from the Northwest Ohio Consortium for Public Health.
Nicole began her career at Owens as an adjunct faculty member in 2014 and was promoted to dental assisting coordinator in 2018. By 2021, she was hired as a full-time instructor in dental assisting, and in 2014, she moved to her current position as a dental hygiene instructor. In addition to her role at Owens, Nicole works for dental practices in Perrysburg and Toledo.
Her dedication to the field and her students has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she received the Owens School of Nursing and Health Professions Teaching Excellence Award.
In 2024, she was honored with the American Association of Community Colleges Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Award. This prestigious national award is given to select faculty members who make significant contributions to community college classrooms and demonstrate a profound commitment to their students' success.
As an alumna of Owens, Nicole constantly employs innovative ideas to enhance student learning outcomes. She understands that each student faces unique challenges and tailors her instruction to meet their individual needs.
Nicole Buchanan exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated educator and professional, consistently striving to improve the educational experiences and success of her students.
In this episode of the Conversations podcast, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Jason Mesteller, a seasoned plant manager and director of operations with more than 17 years of experience at First Solar, a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions. His professional journey began with a solid educational foundation. He holds an Associate of Science degree in Aviation Maintenance Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida and a Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies from the University of Toledo.
Jason has held several key positions within First Solar, progressively taking on more responsibility and leadership roles. Since July 2021, Jason has served as the plant manager at First Solar's Perrysburg, Ohio facility, where he oversees operations and ensures the plant meets its production goals.
In addition to serving as plant manager, Jason is director of operations, a role he has held since April 2019. In this capacity, he is responsible for the strategic oversight of the manufacturing processes, driving operational excellence, and leading initiatives to improve plant performance. From March 2017 to April 2019, he served as Manager of Global Manufacturing Control, where he coordinated manufacturing activities across multiple international sites, demonstrating his capability in handling global responsibilities and international relations.
Jason's earlier roles at First Solar included Manager of Operations Engineering, Manufacturing Specialist, Production Supervisor and Production Team Lead. His hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of the manufacturing process have been instrumental in his ability to lead teams effectively and implement process improvements.
In addition to his practical experience, Jason is PMP certified and trained in Theory of Constraints (TOC), Six Sigma and Critical Chain Project Management. He is proficient in MS Excel, PowerPoint and analytical software such as JMP and SQL. His commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence is evident in his Six Sigma Green Belt certification.
Jason Mesteller's dedication to manufacturing excellence, coupled with his leadership skills and technical expertise, makes him a respected figure in the industry and the community. Jason also serves as a member of the Owens Community College Foundation Board of Directors.
In this episode of the Conversations podcast, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Myron D. Lewis, MSW, MBA, FACHE, the president and chief executive officer of Blanchard Valley Health System in Findlay. Blending clinical expertise with strategic and operational leadership, he has served in many leadership capacities and provided direct patient care as a social worker and counselor. Lewis specializes in organizational planning, leadership development, innovation and process transformation. Passionate about healthcare and the community, he is driven by collaboration, transparency and the convention that quality care starts with a commitment to the organization’s associates.
Myron’s journey began at Michigan State University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in industrial and organizational psychology. He went on to earn his Master of Science degree in clinical social work from Western Michigan University and later a Master of Business Administration degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
With 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Lewis began his current role at Blanchard Valley Health System in January 2021. His previous positions include serving as president of Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital, Network Executive Leader of the Community Health Network in Indianapolis and roles at Indiana University Health Saxony Hospital and McLaren Northern Michigan Regional Hospital.
Lewis is active in the community, serving as a board member of Findlay Hancock County Economic Development and the Hospital Council of Northwest Ohio, as well as a member of the Findlay Rotary Club and a committee member of the Ohio Hospital Association.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Sandy Spang, Executive Director of the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG). Spang plays a crucial role in steering Northwest Ohio toward a brighter future through her commitment to economic development, community empowerment, and regional planning. A graduate of Bowling Green State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Sandy has blended her business insight with her passion for economic and community development.
With more than 19 years of experience in the economic workforce, Sandy took her current leadership position at TMACOG in May 2023. Her tenure is distinguished by her innovative approach to bridging gaps in community needs, fostering opportunities for economic growth, and strengthening the community fabric of Northwest Ohio.
Before taking the helm at TMACOG, Sandy had a diverse career that included significant contributions to the City of Toledo, both as the Deputy Director of Economic Development and as an elected member of the Toledo City Council. During this time, she spearheaded the development of the Permit Planner, a tool simplifying the permitting process for businesses and residents alike, and played a pivotal role in the Forward Cities E3 program, enhancing the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In addition to her public service, Sandy is a successful business owner, having launched Plate 21, a coffee shop that has remained a beloved community staple since 2009. Her business acumen and firsthand experience in entrepreneurship further inform her approach to economic development.
Sandy Spang's leadership at TMACOG is a testament to her dedication to not only enhancing economic opportunities but also enriching the lives of the community members she serves. Her strategic vision, rooted in collaboration and innovation, continues to move Northwest Ohio toward sustainable growth and prosperity.
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In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Dan Sheaffer, director of Findlay Hancock County Economic Development. Sheaffer has a pivotal role in shaping Northwest Ohio’s future by attracting new investments, supporting business expansion and fostering a vibrant economic landscape. A multi-generational native of Findlay, Dan graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University.
With more than a decade at Findlay Hancock County Economic Development, Dan was promoted to his current role in November 2022. His tenure in economic development is marked by a keen focus on managing and implementing strategic projects that promote sustainable growth and prosperity in the region.
Before dedicating his career to economic development, Dan was deeply involved in the business sector. As the general manager of Garden-Aire LLC, he led efforts in consumer product innovation, development and distribution, focusing on enhancing environmental and home and garden experiences. Prior to this, he served as the general manager of Tax & Financial Strategies Inc. for over 15 years, where he specialized in client investment policy and asset management as a Registered Investment Advisor in Northwest Ohio.
Throughout his career, Sheaffer has demonstrated a commitment to fostering economic development, innovation and strategic growth. His leadership at Findlay Hancock County Economic Development is a testament to his dedication to enhancing the economic well-being and quality of life for the residents and businesses of Findlay and Hancock County, Ohio.
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In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Tom Daniels, director of Talent Management for Knight Insurance Group and Owens Community College alumni and member of the Owens Community College Foundation board of directors.
Daniels has carved a niche in Northwest Ohio as a trusted coach, adviser, speaker and volunteer. His passion lies in empowering leaders to make a significant impact in their communities, which he believes starts with recognizing everyone's innate leadership potential and desire to contribute positively.
Tom's academic achievements, including a master's in Organizational Development from Bowling Green State University, a bachelor's in Liberal Arts from the University of Toledo, and an associate degree in Marketing and Sales from Owens Community College, provide a solid foundation for his professional endeavors and community engagement.
Before his tenure at Knight Insurance Group, he served as the Associate Director of Graduate & Executive Programs in Business at Bowling Green State University, shaping the future of business education and executive training. His career also includes significant roles at MRops Inc. and TNS, where he focused on executive interviewing services and learning & development, respectively.
Daniels is also heavily involved in his community, serving as chair of Alumni Connections for Owens Community College; a board member for Avenues for Autism; a board member of Leadership Toledo; and chair of Networking for the Northwest Ohio Human Resource Association.
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In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Bryan Ashton, the chief strategy and growth officer of Trellis and head of Trellis Strategies. Trellis is a nonprofit corporation with a mission to develop and advance initiatives that grow individual economic mobility and expand community prosperity. Bryan's career trajectory has been marked by a deep commitment to enhancing the financial literacy and success of college students.
Ashton’s journey began at Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in accounting. He went on to get his Master’s of Education with a focus in Higher Education from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education.
Before starting with Trellis more than eight years ago, Ashton had spent six years working in financial wellness and student affairs at Ohio State, where he developed a keen understanding of the challenges students face in financing their education.
Ashton is also co-founder of the Higher Education Financial Wellness Alliance, a network of professionals dedicated to bringing together post-secondary organizations to inform national conversations that impact the financial wellness field, public policy and educational support services.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Ashton is a sought-after speaker and advocate for higher education reform. His work is driven by a belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of equitable access to financial resources. His commitment to student success is reflected in his leadership at Trellis, where he continues to champion initiatives that empower students to navigate the financial complexities of higher education with confidence and resilience. His approach combines data-driven research with community engagement, fostering collaborations that lead to meaningful policy changes and support services for students.
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In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Jen Hazel and Jane Berger, the dynamic duo leading Owens Community College’s BIG Read program designed to foster understanding and appreciation of diverse perspectives through literature and related activities. Their combined experiences and passions make them an exceptional team to promote literacy and community engagement.
Jen Hazel, a professor of English at Owens Community College for over 16 years, is known for her dedication to student success and educational innovation. She holds a Master of Arts in English from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Toledo. Jen was awarded the American Association of Community Colleges' Dale P. Parnell Faculty Distinction Recognition in April 2022.She has significantly contributed to the college through various roles, including revamping the advising program, creating new student orientation experiences and developing campus student mentoring programs. Jen's commitment to accessible education is evident in her work with Open Educational Resources (OER), for which she has authored several Creative Commons Licensed materials.
Jane Berger, the director of Library Services at Owens Community College, brings her extensive experience in library sciences to the BIG Read. Berger's career in library services includes roles as a reference librarian, serials assistant and part-time circulation supervisor before becoming the library director. Her passion for literacy and sharing books was kindled during her time on the college’s Literacy Committee. Berger holds a Master's degree in Library and Information Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Public Relations from Wayne State University. Her previous experiences as a reference book editor and school librarian enrich her contributions to the college's library services.
Together, Hazel and Berger synergize their expertise and enthusiasm to lead the BIG Read, creating a platform that encourages the exploration of diverse perspectives through literature. This initiative under their guidance not only enriches the Owens Community College environment but also extends its impact to the surrounding communities.
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In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Alex Boylan, the creator, executive producer and host of the TV series The College Tour. After winning CBS’s The Amazing Race shortly after graduating from Jacksonville University with a B.S. in International Business, Alex’s sense of adventure catapulted him into the limelight, creating a successful and dynamic entertainment career both in front of and behind the camera.
For nearly two decades, Alex has been a sought-after onscreen personality, having hosted the #1 food series on PBS At The Chef’s Table, the #1 animal series on PBS Animal Attractions, and over 100 segments for The Travel Channel. Additionally, Alex was Rachael Ray’s sidekick hosting Rach to the Rescue for her syndicated talk show, circumnavigated the world without a penny in his pocket as the star and creator of Around the World for Free, and spent two summers as the ‘National Ambassador’ on the CBS Buzz Tour.
Behind the lens, Alex has kept just as busy, garnering himself an Emmy nomination for producing The Steve Harvey Show. His creative talents have been recognized throughout the industry, and he has won multiple Webby Awards for his groundbreaking work on Around the World For Free, as well as an ADRIAN Award for his work on DreamJobbing.
With a passion for storytelling and an affinity for globetrotting, Alex has filmed in every U.S. state and over 60 countries around the world. His latest adventure has been exploring higher education through the American landscape, as creator, host and executive producer of The College Tour, for which he has gained recognition as a college expert, most recently being named one of Ed Tech Magazine’s Top 30 IT Higher Education Influencers to Follow in 2022.
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In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Jason Kucsma, the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library Executive Director and Fiscal Officer, a role in which his Toledo roots play an influential part.
A graduate of Bowling Green State University, Jason's academic pursuits in Communications and American Culture Studies laid the groundwork for his professional trajectory. His entrepreneurial spirit manifested early on with the creation of Clamor magazine and the founding of Allied Media Projects, initiatives that underscored his commitment to independent media and the empowerment of communities.
Before stepping into library leadership, Jason was known for his distinctive pink hair and affinity for punk rock—a stark contrast to the innovative leader he is recognized as today. Upon completing his graduate studies in library science in Tucson, Arizona, Jason spent a decade in New York City, where he experienced significant professional and personal growth. Eventually, he decided to return to his evolving hometown of Toledo, accompanied by his wife and twin children.
As he assumed leadership at the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library, Jason was immediately tasked with navigating the library through the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic. His strategic vision for the library has been to establish it as a central hub for learning, community engagement, and support within northwest Ohio.
Jason's collaborative approach to leadership is also evident in his role as a co-chair of the Toledo Area Cultural Leaders and his participation on the boards of ConnecToledo and Mercy Health. A voracious reader, he manages to weave his passion for literature into his dedication to community service.
Having returned to Toledo, Jason has found a unique position where he can be both accessible and influential, engaging with local leaders to contribute to the region's development. His life in Toledo, shared with his family, is a testament to his blend of creativity, practicality, and deep commitment to enriching the cultural fabric of the Toledo Region.
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In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Amy Wachob, the President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Northwest Ohio. Wachob earned her associate degree at Owens Community College and went on to obtain her bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from the University of Toledo. She joined Goodwill Industries in 1991. Over her 32 years with the organization, she has held various leadership and management roles, including retail director, vice president and chief operating officer. She attended Goodwill Industries International, their award-winning executive development program, in 2014.Wachob is an integral part of workforce support and training in northwest Ohio.
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In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with the City of Toledo’s Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz and Director of the Department of Housing and Community Development Rosalyn Clemens. Mayor Kapszukiewicz received a bachelor's degree from Marquette University in 1994 and a master's degree from the University of Michigan in 1996. Prior to his election to mayor, he served as Lucas County Treasurer, a Toledo city councilman and as a member of the Lucas County Board of Education. Director Clemens has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Maryland. She has also completed National Development Council (NDC) Certification in Housing and Economic Development Finance. She moved to Toledo in 2019 to work for the City of Toledo.
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In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Sara Burke, PT, DPT, the chair and assistant professor of the Owens Community College Physical Therapist Assistant Program. Dr. Burke has won several awards, including the Owens’ School of Nursing and Health Professions Teaching Excellence Award, the American Association of Community College Dale P. Parnell Faculty Distinction Recognition, and the Owens’ Presidential Teaching Award. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Ohio State University-Lima Campus and her doctorate in physical therapy at the University of Findlay. Dr. Burke began her Owens career in 2008 as an adjunct faculty member in the science department. She began teaching in the physical therapist assistant (PTA) program as an instructor in 2016 and rose to her current rank of assistant professor in 2021 and department chair in January 2023.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Wendy Pestrue, J.D., the President and CEO of the United Way of Greater Toledo. Pestrue has more than 20 years of nonprofit experience, with expertise in program strategy and fund development for agencies, medical centers and universities. Her experience includes notable institutions such as Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center, Temple University College of Medicine, Texas Heart Institute and Bon Secours Virginia Health System.Her background includes frontline work in nursing, public education, government affairs and campaign finance. In her time with United Way of Greater Toledo, she has focused on a new collaborative model instrumental to informing program evaluation and investment. This includes a community analytics center, expanding 211 services and moving the organization to a more contemporary position leading the community in data-driven work to address basic needs.A native of Texas, Pestrue holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin, a master’s in education from the University of Houston and a doctor of law from Capital University in Columbus.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Wendi Huntley, the Connecting Kids to Meals president since 2016. An accomplished attorney with nearly 30 years in corporate, litigation, intellectual property, sports and entertainment law, she established her own firm, SPEC Group, after working for a large law firm. The Toledo native earned her bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University and Juris Doctorate from the Ohio State College of Law. She is Chair of the HOPE Toledo Board, and on the Board of Directors for Mercy Health, Partners in Education of Toledo and Mobile Meals of Toledo.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Christina Muryn, the city of Findlay mayor since 2020. The Findlay native graduated from the University of Findlay in 2014. While at the University of Findlay, she served as the student representative to the Board of Trustees, as Student Government Association President (for two terms), as a Dana Scholar, as Service Chair of Mortar Board Academic Honor Society, as Vice President of Aristos Eklektos Service Honor Society and as a founding member of Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society. Mayor Muryn is an active member of the community, with the Findlay Family YMCA Board of Directors, the Ohio Mayors Alliance and the United States Conference of Mayors Membership Committee. In 2017, she received the Northwest Ohio 20 Under 40 Award, and she is a recipient of the Zonta International Women In Business Scholarship.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Kristian Brown, a member of the 13abc news team since 2002 and anchor of the noon newscast and Action News at 5:30 with Lee Conklin. A graduate of the prestigious E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, Kristian began her career at KTVE in Monroe, Louisiana before returning to her hometown of Toledo for a reporter position at WTOL.She then joined 13abc and excelled, including a focus on education with her Building Better Schools segment. She was inducted into the Ohio School Board Association Media Hall of Fame for her reports on education in the community in 2011 and received the Northwest Ohio Black Media Association Media Achievement Award in 2009. A recipient of Toledo’s coveted 20 under 40 honor in 2007, she received a Telly Award and Association Press Award for her story entitled Hip Hop Math.A member of the National Association of Black Journalists and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Kristian is a dedicated industry leader and community supporter who often presents to girls and women’s groups about personal development and positive choices.
In this special episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville celebrates the one-year anniversary of the Conversations podcast by reflecting on her favorite moments, sharing stories and excerpts from her guests and introducing producer Herbey Atkinson. The Owens Radio station manager also takes the mic and offers his perspective about Conversations; plus, after reviewing hours of conversations, he integrates never-before-heard outtakes in this must-listen episode.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Ann Ebbert, the CEO and President of Cherry Street Mission Ministries since 2015. Prior to joining Cherry Street, Ann worked in ministry at Hope United Methodist Church in Whitehouse and in sales and training with Invisible Fence in Sylvania. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Miami University.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Jack Hershey, the President and CEO of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC), which represents the state’s 23 community colleges. The Cleveland native joined the OACC following 10 years at Ohio State University, including time spent as the university’s Associate Vice President for State Relations. Earlier in his career, Hershey worked for Gov. Bob Taft and Ohio House of Representatives Speaker Jo Ann Davidson. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Akron.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Dan Creps, the Rossford Schools Superintendent since 2013. The Rossford native earned his bachelor’s degree from Wittenberg University. He later pursued his teaching accreditation from the University of Toledo after leaving his first career, which was writing ad copy and selling advertising for a radio station in Erie, Pennsylvania. He found his calling working in education.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with the Rev. John Jones, the HOPE Toledo President and CEO since 2020 and also Associate Minister at the Christian Temple Baptist Church. The Toledo native earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from Central State University and his MBA from the University of Toledo. He also holds a Certificate in Diversity Management from the American Hospital Association’s Institute for Diversity and Health Equity. A 2008 recipient of Toledo’s 20 Under 40 award, he serves on the board of the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium Foundation.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Lydia Mihalik, the Ohio Director of the Department of Development and the former Mayor of the city of Findlay. Director Mihalik is a graduate of the University of Findlay, where she played and coached on the women’s basketball team. While still in school she interned with the city of Findlay and was then offered a full-time position after she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science. She went from her job at the City to serving as grants administrator for Hancock Regional Planning Commission. While in her second term as mayor, she was tapped by then Governor-elect Mike DeWine to serve in his Cabinet as the state of Ohio’s director of development.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Mark Wasylyshyn, the Wood County (Ohio) Sheriff since 2005 and a graduate of Owens Community College. The lifelong resident of Wood County graduated from Rossford High School in 1979 and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hillsdale College in 1983. He is also a graduate of the Police Executive Leadership College and the National Sheriff’s Institute. Sheriff Wasylyshyn is a member of the executive committee of the National Sheriffs’ Association.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Adam Levine, Edward Drummond and Florence Scott Libbey President, Director and CEO of the Toledo Museum of Art since 2020. He started his career at The Met in New York City. He is a graduate of Dartmouth College, where he triple-majored in anthropology, art history and mathematics & social science. He continued his studies as a Rhodes Scholar at the University of Oxford, where he earned his master’s degree with distinction and a D.Phil. in the history of art.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Findlay Hancock County Economic Development Director Tim Mayle. Their conversation covers a variety of topics, including Amazon’s new facility in Findlay; Findlay being named a Top Micropolitan Community for the eighth straight year and Mayle’s position at the state level with the Ohio Economic Development Association. The 2003 Ohio University graduate has an impressive list of career achievements, including the prestigious 20 under 40 community leadership award in 2013. He is former President of Findlay Young Professionals, United Way of Hancock County, Raise the Bar Hancock County, Small Business Resource Center, Blanchard River Watershed Solutions and the Findlay Energy Special Improvement District.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Dean Monske, the President and CEO of the Regional Growth Partnership (RGP). Dr. Somerville is a member of the RGP Board of Directors. Their conversation dives into northwest Ohio’s economic renaissance over the past decade thanks in part to collaborative efforts among connected micro-coalitions featuring private, public, higher education, economic development and workforce agencies. A respected leader in the business community, Monske is a graduate of Bowling Green State University.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Toledo Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Romules Durant. Their conversation covers the strong partnership and shared priorities between Owens Community College and the school district as well as Dr. Durant’s personal journey that led to him becoming a superintendent. A veteran educator, Dr. Durant joined Toledo Public Schools in 1999 and is a lifelong resident of the city. He has made a point of embedding career readiness and job pathways into education, helping to prepare students for their next steps after high school.
In this episode, Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Toledo Fire & Rescue Chief Allison Armstrong. Their conversation covers the long history Owens Community College has with the department. The episode also features reflections on Chief Armstrong’s career as a firefighter and her appointment as the first woman fire chief in the city’s history. Chief Armstrong is an Owens nursing program alumna and values her healthcare training as critical to her work in the field over the years.
In this inaugural episode, Owens Community College President Dr. Dione D. Somerville sits down with Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Randy Gardner. Released during National Community College Month, the episode covers the contributions community colleges make to Ohio’s economic health. For example, Intel recently announced a significant investment in northwest Ohio that will bring thousands of jobs to the region. Chancellor Gardner said 70 percent of the new Intel jobs will not require a four-year degree which opens up tremendous opportunity for community college students.
Appointed as the 10th Chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education in January 2019, Chancellor Gardner talked about how his approach aligns well with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s philosophy about higher education. “If you have a need or interest in a career path, a skillset, [or] a degree, if you want to achieve that, you should be able to find it here in Ohio somewhere,” Gardner says.