Campus Achievements and Noteworthy Stories

Ashland University has announced its Dean’s List for the Spring 2026 semester, recognizing nearly 1,000 undergraduate students for outstanding academic achievement. To earn Dean’s List honors, students must be enrolled full-time and achieve a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher. The recognition highlights the dedication, hard work, and academic excellence demonstrated by students across a wide range of disciplines and programs at the university. Learn more.

Baldwin Wallace University has received an additional $500,000 in Choose Ohio First funding to support students pursuing STEM degrees. The grant will provide scholarships and resources that help attract, retain and prepare future STEM professionals. The investment strengthens BW’s role in developing talent for Ohio’s workforce and economic growth. Click here to learn more.

Bluffton University has awarded its 2026 Presidential Scholarship, a full-tuition award, to David Rich of Brownsburg, Indiana. Selected through the university’s competitive Presidential Scholarship Competition, Rich was recognized for his academic excellence, leadership and achievements among a talented group of high-performing high school seniors. Learn more.

Capital University has appointed Damon Brown as its inaugural Vice President for Student Experience. Bringing more than 25 years of higher education leadership experience, Brown will lead a new division focused on student success, engagement, wellness, career development and belonging, enhancing the overall student experience. Click here to read more.

Gabriel Payne’s path to Cedarville University was unexpected, but it led to opportunities that combined engineering, research and faith. Through hands-on projects and a Christ-centered learning environment, Payne discovered how engineering can improve lives, preparing him to develop innovative, people-focused solutions while serving others through his future career. Click here to read Payne’s story.

Defiance College has expanded its 1850 Promise program, extending debt-free bachelor’s degree opportunities to eligible students in Allen, Lucas, Wood and Hancock counties beginning in 2026-27. The initiative helps remove financial barriers to higher education, supporting the college’s mission to make a transformative college experience more accessible and affordable. Learn more.

Denison University junior Davidson Jump has received the 2026 Kussmaul Award, recognizing the student who best promotes positive relationships between the university and the Granville community. Through leadership in community service initiatives, fundraising efforts and volunteer programs, Jump has strengthened connections between Denison students and local residents. Click here to read more.

The University of Findlay recognized outstanding participants in its College Credit Plus program with its second annual CCP Awards. Honorees included a student, instructor, school counselor, and faculty liaison whose dedication and support have enhanced the experience of more than 2,000 CCP students across Ohio partner schools. Click here to read the full story.

Franklin University has been named a 2026-2027 Military Spouse Friendly® School, recognizing its commitment to supporting military spouses through flexible online programs, student services and career-focused education. The designation highlights the university’s efforts to help military families achieve academic and professional goals despite the challenges of military life. Learn more.

Heidelberg University celebrated the opening of the Funk-DeWald Nature Preserve, a new outdoor learning and recreation space designed to support environmental education, research and community engagement. The preserve provides students with hands-on opportunities to study natural ecosystems while expanding access to conservation-focused experiences and outdoor activities. Learn more.

Hiram College recognized outstanding student artists during its 2026 Juried Art Show, celebrating creativity, technical skill and artistic achievement across multiple disciplines. Selected by an external juror, award-winning works showcased the talent and dedication of Hiram students while highlighting the strength of the college’s visual arts program. Click here to learn more.

John Carroll University has announced the recipients of its 2026-27 Porter Scholarships, recognizing outstanding incoming students for academic achievement, leadership and service. The competitive scholarship supports high-achieving learners as they begin their college careers, reflecting the university’s commitment to fostering student success, engagement and community impact. Click here to learn more about this year’s recipients.

Seven Kenyon College graduates and one faculty member have earned prestigious Fulbright awards for the 2026-27 academic year. The fellowships will support international teaching and research opportunities around the world, continuing Kenyon’s longstanding success as a top producer of Fulbright scholars and its commitment to global engagement. Click here to learn more.

Lake Erie College has launched a Master of Educational Leadership program with an Athletic Administration track, preparing educators and coaches for leadership roles in schools and athletic organizations. The program combines educational leadership training with sports administration coursework, helping graduates develop the skills needed to lead successful academic and athletic programs. Learn more.

Malone University has received $389,400 from the Ohio Department of Higher Education to continue supporting its Computer Science Endorsement program for educators. The funding covers tuition, materials and stipends for teachers pursuing computer science licensure, helping expand Ohio’s pipeline of qualified K-12 computer science educators. Click here to learn more.

Marietta College’s 2026 All Scholars Day showcased student research, creative work and experiential learning from across campus. The annual event highlighted academic excellence and hands-on educational experiences, providing students with opportunities to present their achievements while celebrating the depth and diversity of scholarship within the Marietta community. Click here to learn more.

The University of Mount Union celebrated the graduation of the first cohort from its Master of Science in Nursing program. The milestone marks the successful launch of the advanced degree, which prepares nurses for leadership and specialized practice roles while addressing the growing demand for highly trained healthcare professionals. Click here to learn more.

WNZR, Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s student-operated radio station, has been named Christian Music Broadcasters’ University Station of the Year for the second time in four years. The national honor recognizes excellence in Christian broadcasting, highlighting the station’s impact, professional-quality programming and hands-on learning opportunities for student broadcasters. Read the full story.

Muskingum University senior Emma Tackle was recognized for her exceptional student leadership, service and campus involvement. Through her dedication to mentoring peers, leading student organizations and fostering community connections, Tackle has made a lasting impact on the university, exemplifying the values of leadership, compassion and engagement. Click here to read more.

Oberlin College student Maya McDermott ’26 has earned a prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student Program award to teach English in Argentina after graduation. The fellowship recognizes her academic achievement, leadership and commitment to cross-cultural exchange, providing an opportunity to build international connections while supporting language education abroad. Click here to read more.

Ohio Dominican University students brought classroom learning to life during a study-abroad experience in Rome, gaining firsthand exposure to the city’s history, culture and global significance. The immersive trip connected academic concepts with real-world experiences, enriching students’ understanding of international perspectives while fostering personal and professional growth. Read more here.

Ohio Northern University alumnus Phil Wagner followed an unconventional path to success, building a distinguished career through perseverance, leadership and a willingness to embrace unexpected opportunities. His story reflects the value of adaptability, lifelong learning and the impact of an ONU education in shaping meaningful professional and personal achievements. Click here to read his full story.

Ohio Wesleyan University student Andy Weisgerber ’27 is advancing cystic fibrosis research through a full-time position at The Ohio State University. Building on a prestigious Cystic Fibrosis Foundation fellowship, Weisgerber is studying potential genetic treatments while contributing research expected to support a future scientific publication. Click here to learn more.

Otterbein University’s Psychotherapy Incorporating Equines course gives students hands-on experience with equine-assisted mental health practices. Combining classroom learning with experiential work in the barn, the course explores how horses can help individuals build trust, process emotions and develop resilience while preparing students for careers in equine-assisted services. Learn more.

Tiffin University graduate Demi Brown reflects on a college journey defined by leadership, service and personal growth. From serving as Student Body President to preparing for law school at the University of Cincinnati, Brown credits mentorship, campus involvement, and resilience for shaping her commitment to advocacy and future legal career. Click here to learn more about Brown’s experience.

As Ursuline College prepares to merge with Gannon University, President David King reflects on the institution’s strong momentum and successful transition. Despite the end of Ursuline’s independence, enrollment is growing, residence halls are full and finances have improved, positioning the college for continued success as part of Gannon University. Click here to learn more.

Walsh University’s 2026 Cavalier Soirée raised more than $250,000 to support students facing financial hardship, surpassing its fundraising goal and bringing the event’s five-year total above $800,000. The record-setting event highlighted the university community’s commitment to student success, helping more than 120 students remain enrolled and pursue their educational goals. Learn more.

Communication Arts seniors showcased their semester-long research projects during the 2026 Research Forum, presenting original work to judges, faculty, family and community members. The event highlighted students’ skills in research, writing and design, while recognizing outstanding presentations and celebrating the creativity, dedication and achievements of the graduating class. Click here to read more.

Wittenberg University faculty and staff members Richard Phillips, Carol Nickoson and Grace Sever have been recognized with 2026 SOCHE Excellence Awards. The honors celebrate outstanding contributions to teaching, student success and campus impact, highlighting their dedication to enriching the student experience and strengthening the Wittenberg community. Click here to read more.

Biology major at Wooster College Andrew Armile ’24, pursued scholarly research on spinal muscular atrophy during his time in college, taking the opportunity to expand his knowledge about the disorder.

Mentored by professors Seth Kelly and Laura Sirot, Armile studied gene effects in motor neurons of fruit flies, aiming to contribute to SMA cure research.

Reflecting on his Wooster experience, including football and academic achievements, Armile credits the college's supportive environment for his growth. His Independent Study (I.S.) project equipped him with research, lab and communication skills, bolstering his confidence to pursue medical school and a career as a physician.

Click here to read the full story.

The College of Wooster has partnered with Bloomington Medical Services, an affiliate of Wooster Community Hospital Health System, to manage on-campus health and wellness services beginning July 2026. The partnership will enhance student care by connecting the Longbrake Student Wellness Center to expanded medical expertise, specialty services and nationally recognized healthcare resources. Read more.