Working Groups

Academic Futures

Academic Offerings and Platforms

Group Synopsis

The Academic Futures working group is exploring several exciting topics. These topics include the

• structure and governance of the university,
• enrollment in all OU programs,
• academic advising and support/career services,
• high demand programs now and in the future, and,
• innovative teaching methods for future students.

Meet the Working Group Team Members

Get to know the members of the working group more by clicking on their photo and learn what it means to them to be part of the Strategic Planning process.

Lyn Wagner, MS, CPA

FACILITATOR, Academic Futures Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Associate Professor of Accounting

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Lyn Wagner, MS, CPA

FACILITATOR, Academic Futures Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Associate Professor of Accounting

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 20 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Traveling, but not lately…  so I’ll say reading.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It’s exciting to be part of change, to be looking for new ways forward. We cannot always control what comes at us, but we can control our response to it – and I like it that we are trying to respond in a meaningful way. Preserving what is great about Ottawa, yet looking for how we can be better.

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Diann DeWitt, PhD, RN, CNE

FACILITATOR, Academic Futures Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Associate Professor, Nursing

Lead Faculty, MSN Program

 

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Diann DeWitt, PhD, RN, CNE

FACILITATOR, Academic Futures Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Associate Professor, Nursing

Lead Faculty, MSN Program

 

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 4 Years, 8 Months
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Reading, kayaking, traveling, spending time with family
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am honored to serve in the strategic planning process as it is an opportunity to collaborate with esteemed colleagues, as well as our revered constituency, to analyze the successes achieved and opportunities for enhancement of academics at Ottawa University.

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Kate Bayne

Director of Enrollment Management, OU Online

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Kate Bayne

Director of Enrollment Management, OU Online

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 6 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Reading
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I appreciate the acknowledgment that the online voice is valued. I view this is an opportunity to come together as a University.

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Steve Boese, PhD

Professor of Biology
Chair, Division of Math and Natural Sciences

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Steve Boese, PhD

Professor of Biology
Chair, Division of Math and Natural Sciences

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 15 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Sailing, gardening and woodworking.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Strategic Planning is like gardening, full of excitement of things yet to come.  Lots of work getting the plots ready for planting and preparing for future growth.

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Patricia Marsh, PhD

Associate Professor of Psychology

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Patricia Marsh, PhD

Associate Professor of Psychology

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 5 Months
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Reading FanFiction or watch Sci-Fi shows (e.g., Marvel universe, Star Wars, Star Trek)
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Ability to apply my data analytic skills and experiences to the work of the working group.

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Kristen Moore, PhD

Associate Professor of Business

Interim Academic Dean, OU-Online

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Kristen Moore, PhD

Associate Professor of Business

Interim Academic Dean, OU-Online

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 11 Years
     ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • I love to spend time with family and friends.
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I’m thrilled to be part of reimagining Ottawa University and setting our direction for the next chapter of preparing students for a lifetime of significance, fulfillment and service!  We have a talented group of people energized about all that will be in the future. It is a very exciting time to be at Ottawa University.

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Janet Peters, JD

Vice President for Advancement

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Janet Peters, JD

Vice President for Advancement

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 16 Years
     ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Spending time with my family and travel
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am excited to work with the steering committee, working groups and everyone involved in the process to provide input and create a five-year strategic plan for Ottawa University. Grassroots input is critical to creating a plan we can all buy in to and all join in together to bring it to fruition. I hope as many constituents as possible get involved! 

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Trish Hernandez, PsyD

Director of Graduate Studies in Counseling

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Trish Hernandez, PsyD

Director of Graduate Studies in Counseling

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 16 Years
     ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Creating art.
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It means that I have an opportunity to contribute to our continued success. It means having a voice.

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Affordability and Accessiblity

DEI

Group Synopsis

The dual themes of affordability and accessibility emerge naturally from Ottawa University’s history, mission, and values. As we set strategic priorities for the coming years, we are called to redefine affordability by balancing the costs we impose with the educational value we provide, to fulfill our promise to prepare students for lives of “personal significance” and “vocational fulfillment.” At the same time, we must reaffirm our commitment to accessibility in higher education, responding to early twenty-first century realities like discrimination and income inequality.

This group is focused on:

• How might we better understand and address the evolving needs of our students and their families, improve our students’ academic success and cocurricular experiences, reduce social and financial barriers, embrace diversity, foster inclusion, and contribute to the public good?
• How do we ensure that all students—across the institution—have equitable access to career development, writing support, full-time faculty presence, library resources, tutoring, and mentoring?

Bullet Points:

• Create a more sustainable budget
• Create and strengthen academic support programs alongside instruction
• Increase the value of students' experience
• Embrace diversity and practice inclusion
• Reduce barriers students and their families face (i.e. financial barriers)

Meet the Working Group Team Members

Get to know the members of the working group more by clicking on their photo and learn what it means to them to be part of the Strategic Planning process.

Karen Ohnesorge, PhD

FACILITATOR, Affordability and Accessibility Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Dean, School of Arts and Sciences

Professor of English

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Karen Ohnesorge, PhD

FACILITATOR, Affordability and Accessibility Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Dean, School of Arts and Sciences

Professor of English

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 24.5 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Making art with words and images
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • For me, being a part of OU's strategic planning process is a chance to help bring all of us together, encourage dialog, represent all voices accurately and fairly, and envision a path forward during a wildly dynamic moment in the history of higher education.

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Sarah Eberle

FACILITATOR, Affordability and Accessibility Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Dean of Student Affairs, OUAZ

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Sarah Eberle

FACILITATOR, Affordability and Accessibility Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Dean of Student Affairs, OUAZ

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 1.5 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • I enjoy cooking, baking, traveling, decorating, and spending time with family and friends.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It has been an honor to serve as a co-facilitator for the Affordability and Accessibility Committee. It has been an amazing opportunity to work with my OU colleagues to shape the vision for the future by identifying recommendations, goals, and objectives for the OU system.

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Brittney Kellar

Assistant Athletic Director, OUAZ

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Brittney Kellar

Assistant Athletic Director, OUAZ

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 5 Years
     
• Favorite Past Time
  • Traveling and watching movies with my kids
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Being part of the strategic planning committee is an exciting opportunity at a time where our university and each campus is at a pivotal point. The ideas and priorities that are being discussed will be key in enhancing the OU brand and in helping each campus take the next step to provide an even greater student experience. 

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Andy Otto

Director of Enrollment Management and Admissions, OUKS

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Andy Otto

Director of Enrollment Management and Admissions, OUKS

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 10 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Being active in the OU community. My family started here and my wife, myself, and my children love interacting with and showing support to our students.
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• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Being a part of the strategic planning process is extremely meaningful for me. This is the institution which has given me so much opportunity, whether it is academically, professionally, or personally. To be able to contribute to its future and provide similar opportunities to the coming generations is a responsibility I do not take lightly.

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Mary Reed

Associate Director of Financial Aid, OUAZ

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Mary Reed

Associate Director of Financial Aid, OUAZ

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 5 Years (student, staff, coach, administrator)
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• Favorite Past Time
  • Entertaining family and friends
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • This is a great opportunity to represent the Financial Aid and Surprise communities that I’ve been serving for so long!

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Destini Salas

OUKS Undergraduate Student

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Destini Salas

OUKS Undergraduate Student

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 3 Years (student; but have been associated with OU since birth as my parents are alumni)
     
• Favorite Past Time
  • Spending time with close friends and family.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Being part of the Strategic Planning Process has given me the opportunity to work hand in hand with the committee in keeping our “family” atmosphere and community experience forefront of the process and that means the world to me to be able to ensure the future of Ottawa is granted the same positive experiences I’ve had over the years. 

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Bruce Tate

Associate Director of Athletics

Coordinator of Student-Athlete Success

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Bruce Tate

Associate Director of Athletics

Coordinator of Student-Athlete Success

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 27 Years (student, staff, coach, administrator)
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• Favorite Past Time
  • Enjoy spending time with family, friends, and co-workers. Love serving in the audio/visual department at my church and attending a variety of sporting events.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I’m grateful to have the opportunity to give back to the process that has given to me for more than have my lifetime.

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Nancy Wingert

Executive Vice President, OU Online

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Nancy Wingert

Executive Vice President, OU Online

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 8.5 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Decorating and traveling!
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about and from other colleagues as we build the future strategic direction and plan for Ottawa University.

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Building Inward

Finances, Human Capital and Technology

Group Synopsis

The Building Inward group is responsible for studying the internal facets of the University’s operation. Our work has led us to three areas of focus: finances and sustainability, technology, and human capital. Finances and sustainability topics include questions such as the budgeting process, debt reduction, and capital projects. Technology topics include questions such as systems and staffing. Human capital topics include questions such as staffing, compensation and benefits, employee satisfaction, and internal communication.

Meet the Working Group Team Members

Get to know the members of the working group more by clicking on their photo and learn what it means to them to be part of the Strategic Planning process.

Allen Reger

FACILITATOR, Building Inward Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Director of Finance Advising, OU Online

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Allen Reger

FACILITATOR, Building Inward Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Director of Finance Advising, OU Online

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 3.5 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • It’s super embarrassing in this setting, but if I’m honest based on my actual habits… It’s watching foreign (Australian, Canadian, British) murder mysteries with my wife. That and tinkering with technology.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It’s a real honor and privilege to be part of this process. To me, it’s an opportunity to provide honest feedback and suggestions to leadership at all levels to safeguard the best interests of our students and staff. I truly believe it will make an impact on important big picture decisions that will in turn shape the University’s day-to-day operations in the next few years. In short, this is an opportunity to be heard.

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Tom Corley

FACILITATOR, Building Inward Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Controller

Director of Finance

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Tom Corley

FACILITATOR, Building Inward Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Controller

Director of Finance

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 22 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Reading and Golf
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It is an important part of moving the University forward in a cohesive and meaningful manner.

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Terry Haines, EdD

University Provost and Chief Academic Officer

Professor of Education

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Terry Haines, EdD

University Provost and Chief Academic Officer

Professor of Education

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 16 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Family and Music
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Thrilled to be part of a grassroots strategic planning process that seeks to include the entire community. 

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Colleen Huffman

Assistant Dean for Academic Operations, OUKS

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Colleen Huffman

Assistant Dean for Academic Operations, OUKS

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 5 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Spending time with grandkids, traveling, reading, word puzzles and sudoku.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the strategic planning process as a diversity of perspective, expertise, and experience enhances the process of shaping the future direction of Ottawa University.

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Keith Johnson

Chief Adminsitrative Officer, OUAZ

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Keith Johnson

Chief Adminsitrative Officer, OUAZ

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 22 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Spending time with family
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I feel honored to work for such a great institution. Excited to be part of the team planning the next several years of success.

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Janet Kincaid

Vice Chair, Board of Trustees

Deputy Regional Director for the FDIC

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Janet Kincaid

Vice Chair, Board of Trustees

Deputy Regional Director for the FDIC

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 9 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Exercise/Reading/Watching my Kid’s Sports
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am so honored to be a part of this ground-breaking process. This inclusive process allows everyone to have a say in the direction of the University during such a pivotal time. I have been involved in many strategic plans and this one is by far the most inclusive, transparent and thoughtful. I can’t wait to see the outcome. 

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Brandi Servaes

Director of Software Solutions

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Brandi Servaes

Director of Software Solutions

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 16 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Going on adventures with family
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am honored to contribute to the groundwork laying the path to Ottawa University’s future.

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Joanna Walters

Associate Vice President of Human Resources

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Joanna Walters

Associate Vice President of Human Resources

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 29 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • My greatest love is traveling to a beach destination where I can spend time with my feet in the sand, listening to the waves roll in from the ocean, and have time to relax with no schedules or responsibilities.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • This process is of key importance to the next phase of OU.  I look forward to this opportunity to be a contributor as we give priority to maximizing on our internal operations and processes; I believe this will be a key factor toward positioning the University to thrive as an organization in the next 15 years.

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Engaging Outward

Advancement / Partnerships, Marketing / Communication, International 

Group Synopsis

Engaging Outward workgroup is focusing on advancement and partnerships, marketing and communications and international programs. Ottawa University has multiple locations in the Southwest and Midwest United States with a legacy in the international education market place. Engaging Outward will utilize constituent groups as a resource for best practice engagement in the market areas Ottawa University serves.

The University will deliver quarterly sponsored events/programming through Board, alumni and OU market place stakeholders to maximize advancement partnership opportunities. The programming will maintain University brand and message integrity while being targeted within identified priorities and interests within the marketplaces.

The successful implementation of the quarterly events/programming will identify, grow and expand donor, grant, corporate, public, church, tribal, and alumni relationships and opportunities for advancement. An example could be to that through this programming, opportunities would be established to create and/or expand international study abroad and travel for students.

Strategically implementing a unified brand and message throughout the University and its stakeholders will elevate the brand awareness within the marketplace. Strengthening current marketing efforts through this unification will allow each market to reach their constituency group while also ensuring that a single message is coordinated throughout the University. Coordination will reinforce branding and better alignment for continued growth throughout the University.

Meet the Working Group Team Members

Get to know the members of the working group more by clicking on their photo and learn what it means to them to be part of the Strategic Planning process.

Mike Hoover

FACILITATOR, Engaging Outward Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Assistant Director of Economic Development, City of Surprise (AZ)

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Mike Hoover

FACILITATOR, Engaging Outward Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Assistant Director of Economic Development, City of Surprise (AZ)

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 10 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Golfing Barefoot
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It is an honor and opportunity, the OU “Spirit” is real!

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Marylou DeWald, PhD

FACILITATOR, Engaging Outward Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Dean, Global Initiatives

Dean, Angell Snyder School of Business

Professor of Business

 

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Marylou DeWald, PhD

FACILITATOR, Engaging Outward Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Dean, Global Initiatives

Dean, Angell Snyder School of Business

Professor of Business

 

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 31 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Horseback Riding, International Travel
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am honored to have been ask to co-facilitate a group that literally will influence the direction of Ottawa for the next five years.  How energizing and humbling all at the same time.

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Garrett Brown

Director of Annual Giving, Athletic and Digital Fundraising

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Garrett Brown

Director of Annual Giving, Athletic and Digital Fundraising

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 10 Years (student, staff)
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Most of my free time is spent enjoying the outdoors and working on the family farm. My wife Amanda and I also enjoy working on our own version of “This Old House,” under the supervision of our dog, Goose.
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• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am very excited to take part in this new chapter of Ottawa’s story, as we work as one to solidify the University’s future. The opportunity to work through Advancement initiatives with other members of the University, and members of the community has been such a fulfilling task. I am looking forward to continuing to help spread Advancement awareness, as well as seek and locate long term funding pipelines for the University.

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Andrea Cook, MA

Assistant Dean for Academic Operations (AOP)

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Andrea Cook, MA

Assistant Dean for Academic Operations (AOP)

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 12 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • My favorite past time is reading for pleasure.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I have been through many changes during my time at OU. Our University has been through some ups and downs; however, we remain strong and focused on our mission. I welcome the opportunity to be a part of the next phase of the journey that marks our history as a University. I look forward to planning for a future in a shifting higher education landscape and working with a well-rounded group of individuals to help find OU’s place within those changes.

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Freda Richards

Director of Marketing Creative Services, OUAZ

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Freda Richards

Director of Marketing Creative Services, OUAZ

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 4 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Spending time with my family, hiking and cooking
    ​
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve.

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Katie Sowers

Director of Strategic Initiatives

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Katie Sowers

Director of Strategic Initiatives

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 1 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Spending time with family, promoting women in sport, and everything football.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Excited to be part of Ottawa University's strategic planning process as they grow and find new partnerships to carry the University into the future.

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Danny Trent

Vice Chair, Board of Trustees

Attorney, Perry & Trent LLC

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Danny Trent

Vice Chair, Board of Trustees

Attorney, Perry & Trent LLC

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 9 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Children, grandchildren, concerts and playing games with the family.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • The work on the strategic planning process will assist my efforts as the Board of Trustees Chair in leading the Board to be even more impactful in the future.

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Reggies Wenyika, EdD

President, OUKS

Professor of Education and Religion

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Reggies Wenyika, EdD

President, OUKS

Professor of Education and Religion

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 3.5 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Art (abstract expressionism) and writing (non-fiction and poetry)
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It is a joy to be included in the planning and strategy-generation process needed to move our institution forward.

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One University

Coming Together

Group Synopsis

The One University committee have had multiple discussions about the items noted from the larger strategic plan group. Within these discussions, we shared our viewpoints from our roles to help determine the scope of how the committee operates. Because of these discussions, the committee determined the following.

• Findings
  • Recommendations for efficient operation between campus locations
    • Improved Communication
    • Implement Best Practices
    • Similar technology solutions between departments
    • Redundant knowledge base between locations
  • Supporting campus locations
    • Campus locations being invested in achievements for other locations. Including social media posts, supporting events and knowledge sharing
  • Supporting users
    • Focus on providing ubiquitous support and support methodology for end users to resolve any issues they have in an efficient manner

These findings helped us sculpt the questions for faculty/staff & students. The results of the questions will help determine recommendations on how to resolve the identified issues and other operational opportunities. The questions are intended to spotlight the following

• Focus on interactions with campus locations
• What issues arise in those communications?
• How can those communications and interactions improve?
• Focus on student support experience
• Challenge departments to identify opportunities to combine support efforts to provide superior support to students
• Student feedback regarding departmental support

Meet the Working Group Team Members

Get to know the members of the working group more by clicking on their photo and learn what it means to them to be part of the Strategic Planning process.

Wynndee Lee

FACILITATOR, One University Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Life Trustee, Board of Trustees

Director of Major Gifts, Ottawa University

Community Development Director, City of Ottawa (retired)

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Wynndee Lee

FACILITATOR, One University Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Life Trustee, Board of Trustees

Director of Major Gifts, Ottawa University

Community Development Director, City of Ottawa (retired)

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 35 Years (alum, Alumni Board, Board of Trustees, parent of alum)
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Reading
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I love the energy of making positive change after good questions, debate, deliberation, and decisions!

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Adam Caylor

FACILITATOR, One University Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

 

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Adam Caylor

FACILITATOR, One University Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

 

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 5.5 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Spending time with family, playing guitar, gaming with friends and supporting local professional supports teams.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • To be able to provide input on strategic goals into the next 10 years of OU through the lens of technology, cyber security and operational efficiency. Also, to help grow the University that helped me grow professionally and personally over the past 5 and a half years.

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Barbara Dinneen, PhD

Professor of English

Lead Faculty, Liberal Arts Studies

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Barbara Dinneen, PhD

Professor of English

Lead Faculty, Liberal Arts Studies

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 25 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Swimming in the ocean at night.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • An opportunity to collaborate across party lines to chart a bright OU future.

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Craig Kispert

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Craig Kispert

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 1 Month
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Watching/participating in all kinds of sports and spending time with family.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • As a new-ish employee, it is exciting and interesting to be part of the process from an onboarding and learning perspective.  Quickly makes me feel part of the team. As a long-time employee at another higher-education institution, it is also interesting to see how those past experiences can inform perspectives of a new institution and how that previous experience can help contribute to the betterment of Ottawa University.

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Frank Nainoa, MA

Academic Dean, OUAZ

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Frank Nainoa, MA

Academic Dean, OUAZ

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 3.5 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Watching Netflix!
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Being part of the Strategic Planning Process allows me to be part of mapping out a successful future of the institution.

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Brian Patterson

Director of Wisconsin Campus Operations

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Brian Patterson

Director of Wisconsin Campus Operations

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 20 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Basketball; Marquette Men’s College Basketball (biggest private college in Milwaukee, Big East Conference) and Milwaukee Bucks NBA Basketball (2021 World Champions)
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I’m extremely happy to be involved in the process as an 18 year employee and two-time alumnus, Class of 2004 for BA, Class of 2010 for MBA, and long-term Board Member of the WI Chapter of the Ottawa University Alumni Association. I’m very blessed to have been part of the past and want to do everything I can to contribute to the future of OU. I’m 39, as I write this, and I first became a part of OU when I was 19, so my entire adult life has been affiliated with Ottawa and I’m very thankful for all of it, the good times and the challenging times. The past is a treasure. The future is a gift. I believe that the two most important business decisions any company makes is 1) Hiring and 2) Strategic Planning, so I’m glad to be part of #2 University-wide.

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Brian Sandusky, PhD

Chief Enrollment Officer, OUAZ
Associate Professor Business Administration

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Brian Sandusky, PhD

Chief Enrollment Officer, OUAZ
Associate Professor Business Administration

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 8 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Golf and spending time with friends and family
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It means a great deal to me to be part of the strategic planning committee working with a talented team of faculty and colleagues that will help shape the direction of Ottawa University in a very challenging time for post-secondary institutions and students.

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The Student Experience

Putting Students First

Group Synopsis

Does the quality of education, rigor, co-curricular experience, career readiness, and job placement at Ottawa University warrant the cost of attendance? We are using surveys, focus groups, and student retention and exit survey data to answer the following questions:

Athletics – Non-Athletes vs. Athletes

• Is our current recruiting structure sustainable?
• How can we grow other programs to increase the non-athlete population? (i.e., Music, art & theatre).
• Are realistic expectations given to students when they are recruited? How does that impact the student experience?

Support Staff  

• Do internal departments affect the student experience? Positive or negative? Do our internal practices cause poor student experience? 
• Do we have the structure to support provisionally accepted students who need additional support to retain, persist, and graduate?
• How do we make OU the university where students want to be?

Career Services 

• How would a student define “career services”? What do they need to support them in this area?  
• How are our students being prepared for the workforce? What are our gaps?

Mission and Values 

• Is our mission statement still relevant to the current culture and structure?
• How well is our mission statement put to practice?

Meet the Working Group Team Members

Get to know the members of the working group more by clicking on their photo and learn what it means to them to be part of the Strategic Planning process.

Donald Anderson

FACILITATOR, The Student Experience Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Dean of Student Life and Services, OUKS

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Donald Anderson

FACILITATOR, The Student Experience Working Group (Strategic Planning)

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

Dean of Student Life and Services, OUKS

BA, Ottawa University

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 11 Years (student, staff)
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Getting to be a part of the Ottawa University Football program and winning three conference championships in 4 years.
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• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It is an honor and privilege to be involved with the strategic planning process. This is a unique opportunity to influence the future and vision of an institution that has done so much for me.

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John Holzhuter

FACILITATOR, The Student Experience Working Group (Strategic Planning)

University Chaplain

Managing Director, Fredrikson Center for Faith and Church Vitality

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John Holzhuter

FACILITATOR, The Student Experience Working Group (Strategic Planning)

University Chaplain

Managing Director, Fredrikson Center for Faith and Church Vitality

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 14 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Joyful noisemaking.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Teaming with peers and partners to ensure the Ottawa spirit remains integral and tangible to significant experiences for current and future students.

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Sydney Aea

OUAZ Undergraduate Student

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Sydney Aea

OUAZ Undergraduate Student

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 2 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Going to the gym, being around friends and family, we could be doing nothing or we could
    be doing everything, but I just enjoy being around important people in my life.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am honored to be included in a process that is intended to make a positive impact on the
    OU community. I hope that my contributions aid the process in an upward direction and I
    encourage students to take part in the process as well because it is not about what is
    happening now, but what changes we can make for the future.

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Alan Boelter

Director of Campus Ministries, OUAZ

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Alan Boelter

Director of Campus Ministries, OUAZ

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 4 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Baseball Card Collecting
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am honored to hear and explore what our student population wants from OU in this ever changing time of higher education. I love that the University is willing and humble enough to explore this self-reflective process to enhance the student experience at OU. I will be praying that Lord will guide our steps and our minds as we look to him to lead us to next steps at the University.

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Jamie Fields

Director of Student Services and Academic Advising, OU Online

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Jamie Fields

Director of Student Services and Academic Advising, OU Online

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 3.5 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • My favorite past time is spending time with family and friends, traveling and attending live concerts and sporting events.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am grateful to be a part of the strategic planning process because I believe it is extremely important to analyze our past to help propel us successfully into the future. Collaborating with other leaders across the institution is a welcomed opportunity for growth both personally and professionally. At the heart of OU, I believe strongly that our mission focuses on the development of our students within both of those facets as well so being a part of discovering the value of, and enhancing, the overall student experience is an honor.

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Jaime Fuentes, MEdT

Lead Professor, Information Sciences and Technology Institute at Ottawa University

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Jaime Fuentes, MEdT

Lead Professor, Information Sciences and Technology Institute at Ottawa University

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 4 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Cycling
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • Being on this committee is important for me because it provides a sense of direction and measurable goals for OU. Strategic planning will help guide decisions and assess the progress and changing approaches of the University.

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Aaron Siebenthall, MA

Head Men's Basketball Coach, OUKS

Assistant Professor of Teacher Education

Director of Athletic Academic Development

Assistant Athletic Director for Community Relations

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Aaron Siebenthall, MA

Head Men's Basketball Coach, OUKS

Assistant Professor of Teacher Education

Director of Athletic Academic Development

Assistant Athletic Director for Community Relations

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 16 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Spending time with my family and golf
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • I am honored to be a part of the strategic planning process.  Ottawa University has a bright future.  It is important we have a plan to guide the University as we strive for growth and improvements in all facets of the institution.  This is a collaborative effort and the process has proven that the most important resource at OU, is the people.  Faculty, staff, students, and administrators have all willingly volunteered their time to ensure we are ready to meet the needs and challenges ahead. 

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Dennis Tyner, PhD

President, OUAZ

Professor of Science

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

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Dennis Tyner, PhD

President, OUAZ

Professor of Science

Member, Strategic Planning Steering Committee

• Number of Years Associated with OU
  • 15 Years
    ​
• Favorite Past Time
  • Theatre, golf, sports, music, games and grandchildren.
     
• What Does It Mean to You to be Part of the Strategic Planning Process
  • It has been valuable to participate in conversations with other University constituents to see and hear diverse perspectives about our institution and what needs to be done for it to thrive in the future.

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