BGSU Board of Trustees approves continued fee waivers, welcomes new chair

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - In an effort to keep higher education accessible, the Bowling Green State University Board of Trustees approved at its May meeting to continue waiving fees for out-of-state students enrolled in specific graduate programs to ensure student success. In addition, the board elected David O’Brien as its new chair and approved the naming of the Robert L. Perry Veranda in a continued commitment to diversity and belonging.

Committed to supporting students now and in the future, trustees voted to keep the non-resident surcharge to $1 per credit hour for out-of-state students who have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree at an Ohio institution and who enroll in a degree-seeking graduate program. Trustees first approved the lower surcharge last year to encourage non-resident students who have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Ohio from an Ohio institution to stay in Ohio and earn a graduate degree.

"As a public university for the public good, we work to ensure a BGSU education is one of value," BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers said. “Today’s board meeting showcases our commitment to that affordability, along with our focus on a community that fosters diversity, belonging, respect and curiosity.”

The reduction of the non-resident surcharge does not apply to students entering a fully online program and all Master of Business Administration programs.

BGSU also recently announced its extension of the waiver of the GRE and GMAT test score requirement for graduate certificates and master's degree programs through Spring 2022 to ensure learners have the support and resources needed to adapt during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

"At BGSU, our faculty and staff are committed to making education accessible," said Joe B. Whitehead, Jr., provost and senior vice president for Academic and Student Affairs. "We believe in the power of education, and we want to do everything we can to support current and prospective students. In the midst of uncertain times, BGSU is remaining flexible and adaptable by continuing to waive graduate entrance exams as COVID-19 continues to place limitations on testing center access."

Recognizing a leader in diversity and belonging

BGSU is honoring Dr. Robert L. Perry ’59, ’65 the inaugural director of the University’s ethnic studies program, with trustees approving the naming of the Robert L. Perry Veranda. Located at Shatzel Hall, the Robert L. Perry Veranda recognizes Perry’s legacy of shaping diversity and belonging initiatives at BGSU.

Among his vast accomplishments, Perry helped establish the University’s Cultural Diversity in the United States requirement in 1992, profiled in The Chronicle of Higher Education as the first of its kind at any university in the country. The requirement continues today and serves as the foundation of the University’s efforts to educate all students on the importance of race and democracy.

“Dr. Perry was a trailblazer in shaping empowerment and inclusion at BGSU and beyond,” said Jennifer McCary, chief diversity officer at BGSU. “His legacy is seen today, not only on our campus, but at universities across the country in a commitment to establishing a culture of diversity and belonging through intentionality in curriculum.” 

Board elects new chair

The board elected David O’Brien '89 as its new chair. He assumes the role after serving as vice chair under Betty Montgomery. In addition to public service at BGSU, O'Brien serves as chairman of the board for Risk International Holdings (comprised of Risk International Services, Risk International Benefits Advisory and Risk International Actuarial Consulting) in Fairlawn, Ohio. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with a double major in finance and risk management/insurance from BGSU.

“As president, I am so appreciative of the service and leadership of Chair Betty Montgomery. She is an icon and a trailblazer for Ohio. During her nine years on the board, she has had an immeasurable impact on our students and our alma mater,” Rogers said. “We are so fortunate to have alumnus David O’Brien to be our next chair of the Board of Trustees. I am confident his leadership will help move BGSU forward.”