The partnership between the three universities and Owens Community College will expand transfer pathways and provide more opportunities for students.
Owens Community College has formed or renewed partnerships with the University of Findlay, Heidelberg University, and Ohio University in order to create enhanced transfer pathways and increase student opportunities. At an event on Owens Community College’s campus on Monday, November 3, representatives from all three universities were present to sign or renew the agreements.
According to an article on Owens Community College’s website, Dr. Dione D. Somerville, the president of Owens Community College, was quoted as saying at the event, “This is a defining day for higher education in our region, for Owens Community College, the University of Findlay, Heidelberg University and Ohio Northern University, and for this important region of the state. We’ve unveiled data that will guide our next steps and signed pathway agreements for our students to continue their education at outstanding universities right here in our region. The Findlay Commitment reflects that collaboration. Our commitment to Findlay and Hancock County is unwavering. We will meet the needs of today with data-informed planning and the dedication of our outstanding team on the Findlay-area Campus.”
During the event, Owens Community College presented data it has from a study it commissioned from Trellis Strategies. The study showed that in Findlay and Hancock County, the needs of the workforce are evolving, and therefore the way students learn and prepare for the workforce also needs to evolve. It also noted that increased opportunities are necessary for adult learners, and those who require flexible learning options.
Somerville said of these findings, “We can see from the data that we have clear areas of strength, and we are restructuring the programs we offer on our Findlay-area Campus to better serve this region.”
To address these evolving needs, Owens Community College has created new agreements or renewed existing agreements with the University of Findlay, Heidelberg University, and Ohio Northern University.
The Oiler Express dual admission agreement between Owens Community College and the University of Findlay was first established in 2019 and was renewed by the institutions. It has facilitated the transfer of 252 students from Owens Community College into the University of Findlay. In addition to the renewal of the Oiler Express, the two institutions have also signed an articulation agreement that creates a pre-pharmacy pathway for students.
Dr. Kathy Fell, the president of the University of Findlay, said, “The Oiler Express partnership represents an exciting opportunity that benefits both institutions while creating meaningful pathways for students to achieve their academic and career goals. Partnerships of this nature are an important part of the University of Findlay’s commitment to collaboration and student success.”
With Heidelberg University, Owens Community College has established a new dual admission agreement, the Student Prince Express. This agreement will create a simple, seamless pathway for students to earn a bachelor degree from Heidelberg University.
Dr. Rob Huntington, Heidelberg University’s president, said of the new agreement, “Heidelberg University has a long-standing tradition of collaboration with regional community colleges and four-year institutions to develop innovative pathways that support students in achieving their academic and professional goals. We are proud to launch the Student Prince Express with Owens Community College. This partnership strengthens and streamlines existing pathways that enable students to take the next step toward a bachelor’s degree at Heidelberg. Expanding opportunities is ultimately about supporting transfer students, increasing accessibility and opening doors for them to continue their academic journey with confidence. By working closely with our friends at Owens, we can ensure that every student, regardless of where they begin their academic journey, has the resources and support to complete their bachelor’s degree.”
With Ohio Northern University, Owens Community College has established the Polar Bear Express dual admission agreement, in addition to a new transfer pathway for pre-pharmacy students.
Dr. Melissa J. Baumann, president of Ohio Northern University, said, “We are pleased to strengthen and expand our partnership with Owens Community College to make an ONU degree accessible to more students. As a private university working for the public good, we’re committed to preparing graduates for success in their careers and life, while meeting the workforce needs of our region, our state and beyond.”
At the event, Dr. Somerville also discussed the Findlay Commitment, in which Owens Community College will work with other education institutions, employers, and the community throughout the region to expand opportunities for learners and workers. The college will continue to align its program and degree offerings with the needs of the local workforce. In the 2026-2027 school year, the college plans to add additional degree offerings in manufacturing, electrical, and mechanical fields.
For more information about Owens Community College, visit the school’s website.