Rogers Report

Our Rogers Report videos have taken us to unique areas on campus, and this month is no exception. The faculty and students in the College of Health and Human Services taught me a thing or two about food and nutrition when we had the opportunity to visit their labs and learning spaces. These academic programs are examples of how we focus on the health and vibrancy of our communities, both through applied research and through preparing professionals who will have a real effect on the quality of people's lives.

Bowling Green State University recently inducted Eileen O'Neill '90, '14 (Hon.); Eugene T.W. Sanders, Ph.D. '80, '85, '92 and J. Robert Sebo '58, '13 (Hon.) into the Academy of Distinguished Alumni, one of the University's highest honors. To me, these honorees exemplify how our graduates drive the social, educational, cultural and economic vitality of our communities and beyond. Joining members who have been inducted since 2011, this year an entertainment executive, an experienced educator and a business leader demonstrate the extraordinary impact of our alma mater - a public university for the public good.

Just this month, the Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education ranked Bowling Green State University No. 3 for teaching quality among America's public universities. I believe this external ranking showcases the value of our holistic educational approach by our faculty and staff and our commitment to student success. And when our students were asked if they would choose BGSU again for their education, they overwhelmingly said yes, placing us first in the Midwest for student satisfaction.

I recently delivered the annual State of the University Address. With the countless accomplishments of our students, faculty, staff and alumni, our learning community has so much to be proud of. As we continue to focus on implementing our strategic plan, Focus on the Future, it is imperative that we redefine undergraduate student success, enhance our culture to support diversity and belonging, and strive to remain a great value. This address tells our collective story, as we work together to realize our vision. And I believe it is incumbent on us to answer those "what if?" questions, because that is what a 21st century public university does.

Our faculty’s research and creative activities demonstrate our relevance and address issues of significance. Last fiscal year alone, we increased our externally funded award dollars to more than $14.9 million. And as we start off the fall semester, Dr. Jonathan Bostic, associate professor of mathematics education in the School of Teaching and Learning, received a $1.9 million grant from the National Science Foundation to explore testing standards and assessment tools to ensure that they accurately reflect students’ needs.