OSU efforts are far-reaching
Earlier this summer, I was privileged to visit seven cities, towns and villages in five counties as part of Ohio State’s annual state tours.
It was a pleasure to visit the childhood home of John Glenn in New Concord and the community that shaped him. A personal hero of so many, including myself, Senator Glenn exemplified public service.
His legacy of engagement and lifelong dedication to learning set the tone for our trip as we explored partnerships that uplift lives and communities throughout the Buckeye State. New Concord has done a wonderful service by preserving and sharing Senator Glenn’s home with the world.
In Marietta, the Valley Gem Sternwheeler carried us up the Muskingum River for a look at efforts to reduce erosion and protect water quality. We visited the Conesville Power Plant where Ohio State scientists work with local, state and industry partners to reclaim mined lands. In Cumberland, we went on safari with students and Brutus Buckeye at the Wilds — a major partner with our College of Veterinary Medicine and a treasure in our state.
With extension offices, alumni and friends in all 88 counties, the university is in a unique position to help solve the most pressing challenges facing Ohioans.
One of our stops was in Caldwell, where we joined community leaders, elected officials, students and more to discuss opioid treatment and recovery programs. Ohio State is working on multiple fronts to expand prevention programs, provide resources and listen to the needs of affected families in the largest cities and smallest towns alike.
We were proud to partner with Noble County CARES, the Chamber of Commerce, Job and Family Services and Caldwell Exempted Village School District to gather insights and take steps forward to benefit us all.
As Senator Glenn said, “We are more fulfilled when we are involved in something bigger than ourselves.” That call for greater engagement was reflected throughout our tour, especially in the actions of our students. Ohio State undergraduates from across Ohio and beyond traveled with us on the Buckeye Bus.
You may have seen them at some point along the journey, whether performing a service project at the Licking County Family YMCA in Newark or enjoying a delicious break at Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl in Zanesville. (I recommend the lemon cookie ice cream.)
At our final stop at the Treehouse Coffee Shop in Zanesville, these same students — including Brutus, members of the Ohio State spirit team and the band’s drum major — helped me surprise a handful of incoming freshmen who will attend Ohio State this fall.
I was struck by the words of Mackenzie Mayle, a first-generation college student who plans to study environmental science at our Columbus campus. “Ohio State has been my dream school since I was 6,” she said. “I grew up in a very Buckeye-oriented family. I have three younger brothers between the ages of 4 and 17, and I really want to set an example.”
We are committed to providing opportunities for all Buckeyes — from Mackenzie and her brothers to families across the state — to pursue their dreams and serve their communities.
Dr. Michael V. Drake is president of The Ohio State University.