1216 | A Spirit of Innovation - Contents and Welcome

1216

The Magazine of Ohio Dominican University

A Spirit of Innovation

» In the classroom

» In the community

» In the workplace

» In the world

Front cover: Shilpa Murthy ’18 participates in a lab at the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Dublin campus.

contents

features

2 Innovation through Partnerships ODU is partnering with peer institutions to develop accelerated programs that allow students to pursue their passions while reducing overall cost.

4 Smart Columbus Partners with ODU to Enhance Campus Sustainability and Safety Ohio Dominican is leveraging its outstanding location and corporate relationships to make environmentally friendly enhancements that benefit the entire campus community.

7 Contemplata – Faculty Perspective: A History and Tradition of Innovation For over 100 years, innovation has been a hallmark of ODU’s evolution as it pursues new ideas, programs and technology.

departments

6 Alumni Profile: At the Forefront of Innovation

8 Campus Happenings

10 Reducing Student Expenses through Innovation

12 Student Points of View

Dear ODU Alumni and Friends,

We received wonderfully positive feedback regarding the first issue of 1216 after it was published last summer. It was rewarding to see the hard work that went into that inaugural issue produce such a well-received magazine. The response made it clear that many of our readers were eager to receive more news about Ohio Dominican – stories that reveal what makes this such a special place in our hearts.

As President Gervasi and I discussed potential topics for this issue of 1216, he observed, “I’ve been so impressed since I came to Ohio Dominican by the spirit of innovation demonstrated by our faculty and staff.” The editorial team loved the idea and incorporated a range of voices to showcase the innovative practices that have been a driving force at ODU over the course of its 108-year lifespan.

You will learn from our own faculty leaders about the various ways in which we are adapting to changes in technology, student demographics and learning styles to provide an educational experience that prepares students for a world that is changing more rapidly every day. It’s gratifying to hear from young alumnus Jacob Poe ’17, who boldly majored in Software Engineering the first year it was offered at ODU. His experiences inside and outside of the classroom showcase the positive outcomes that are made possible here. Similarly, ODU seniors Steven Jankowski and Myrissa Stalter describe the entrepreneurial spirit and faculty support that led to the establishment of a student-led public relations firm here on campus.

The opportunities for collaboration extend beyond our campus. Not long after the city of Columbus was awarded a $50 million Department of Transportation grant to earn the designation as “America’s Smart City,” we established a relationship with Smart Columbus that led to the installation of more than $3.5 million in solar technology on our campus. Columbus city engineer Bud Braughton contributed an informative article about the city’s vision and partnership with ODU.

The late co-founder of Apple, Steve Jobs, described innovation as “… the ability to see change as an opportunity, not a threat.” ODU prepares students for an environment of constant change with a curricular approach that bolsters our traditional liberal arts foundation and engages students in a rigorous interdisciplinary education to inspire critical thinking, ethical behavior, and an insatiable quest for the truth – befitting our Dominican heritage.

Best wishes for a peaceful and joyous New Year.

Mark Cooper Vice President Advancement and External Relations

1216

The Magazine of Ohio Dominican University

1216 is published twice a year for alumni, parents, friends, faculty and staff by Ohio Dominican University. The mission of 1216 is to share with readers a focused publication that closely examines a particular topic or theme that is unique to each edition. It strives to engage readers, develop interest and provide a better understanding of how the University is helping students connect their passion with a greater purpose for their lives.

Magazine Staff

Editor

Tom Brockman

Managing Editor

Mark Cooper

Design

Monica Martin

Contributors

Bud Braughton, City of Columbus; Steven Jankowski ’19; Manuel Martinez, Ph.D.; Jacob Poe ’17; Kathleen Riley, Ph.D.; Myrissa Stalter ’19; Jim Strode, Ph.D.

Mission Statement

As a Catholic liberal arts university in the Dominican tradition, Ohio Dominican University is guided in its educational mission by the Dominican motto: to contemplate truth and to share with others the fruits of this contemplation.

Ohio Dominican educates individuals committed to intellectual, spiritual and professional growth, who develop into lifelong learners, serving others in a global society. They in turn become ethical and effective leaders grounded in the pursuit of truth, justice and peace.

Ohio Dominican University was founded by the Dominican Sisters of Peace.