Ohio Governor makes appointments to BGSU Board of Trustees

By Amber Stark

Ohio Governor John Kasich has appointed Dr. Richard Ross of Columbus to the Bowling Green State University Board of Trustees for a term running until May 17, 2025.

Cody Clemens of Malta has been appointed as the graduate student trustee member of the Board for a term running until May 17, 2018.

“We appreciate Governor Kasich’s appointment of two highly qualified individuals to our Board of Trustees,” said BGSU President Mary Ellen Mazey. “Dr. Ross brings a wealth of experience in education and can offer tremendous insight to our Board. As a BGSU graduate student, Mr. Clemens has a unique understanding of the University and the issues facing our students."

Ross has been involved in public schools for more than 40 years and most recently served as the superintendent of Ohio's Department of Education. Before becoming superintendent, Ross was the superintendent of several public school districts and worked closely with Governor Kasich on an overhaul of Cleveland City Schools in 2012.

Ross is credited with school reforms in Cleveland and Youngstown and the implementation of an adult high school diploma program and improving literacy in the state through the third grade reading guarantee. He earned a doctorate in education administration from BGSU in 1981.

“I am pleased to be joining the BGSU Board of Trustees,” Ross said. “I’ve worked with the University in various roles and look forward to helping the University achieve its mission and serve students. As a graduate, I have a special place in my heart for the University.”

Graduate student trustee member Clemens is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Health and Development Communication at BGSU. Previously, he worked for Target Corporation, where he was an executive team leader of logistics in Pittsburgh.

Clemens has also worked at Marietta Memorial Hospital, Marietta College, Duquesne University and Bowling Green State University, and he has consulted with The Ohio State University’s Morgan County Extension Office. Clemens earned his Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication & Public Relations from Marietta College and his Master of Arts in Corporate Communication from Duquesne University.

“It is a privilege and an honor to be appointed to serve as a member of BGSU’s Board of Trustees,” Clemens said. “It is my hope that BGSU students feel comfortable coming to me with not only their worries and concerns, but also with the amazing things our students accomplish every day. I plan to work hard, and I am optimistic that the University will continue to thrive moving forward.”