Graduates gather for OU’s 2024 undergraduate commencement
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
May 5, 2024 | 8:45pm EDT
Ohio University hosts students and families for 2024 undergraduate commencement in The Convo on Saturday. Commencement ceremonies were split by academic colleges into two sessions – one at 9:30 a.m. and another at 2 p.m.
Don Leo named executive vice president, provost of Ohio University
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
April 26, 2024 | 12:01am EDT
Ohio University President Lori Stewart Gonzalez announced Monday that Don Leo will be the next executive vice president and provost starting July 1, according to a university press release. Leo is replacing current Executive Vice President and Provost Elizabeth Sayrs, according to a university press release announcing the search. Sayrs will continue in the position through June.
Students, faculty learn to navigate changing AI landscape
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
April 18, 2024 | 10:35pm EDT
Ohio University is working to provide educational resources to understand and adapt to new Artificial Intelligence, or AI, technologies in hopes of leading faculty and students toward ethical and effective usage of AI in higher education and their careers.
Students honored for Leadership Awards
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
April 17, 2024 | 11:13pm EDT
The 41st annual Leadership Awards on Wednesday honored five organizations and 39 students for their dedication to the Ohio University and Athens communities. The Division of Student Affairs and the Division of Diversity and Inclusion hosted the event and offered it in-person at Baker University Center Ballroom and online. Russell Morrow, interim vice president of diversity and inclusion, said he hopes the Leadership Awards serve as a reminder to students that anyone can be a leader.
University services partner, promote general wellness
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
April 11, 2024 | 7:58pm EDT
Ping Recreation Center now offers new equipment geared toward relaxation, recovery and mindfulness, but the additional equipment is part of a larger project that Well-Being and Recreation and also Counseling and Psychological Services, or CPS, partnered on together to create a space for people within Ping that focuses on mental and social health and social well-being.
Athens Public Library to add adult changing stations to restrooms
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
April 10, 2024 | 11:00pm EDT
In partnership with the Athens County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the Athens County Public Library, or ACPL, system is implementing adult changing stations in The Plains Public Library to create more accessible facilities for Athens County residents with disabilities. The library has been undergoing renovations since early 2023 in compliance with the Ohio Changing Station Campaign. The statewide initiative aims to provide universal changing spaces for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and to increase community engagement for underserved populations.
New Leaf Justice Enterprise offers Athens County residents affordable housing options
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
April 9, 2024 | 11:37pm EDT
Athens County’s newest housing nonprofit, New Leaf Justice Enterprise, strives to provide economic justice for Appalachian regions with 3D-printed, affordable and sustainable housing opportunities. The New Leaf Justice Enterprise, located at 485 Richland Ave., is a project of the Survivor Advocacy Outreach Program, or SAOP, and the Ohio Department of Development’s Appalachian Community Grant Program funds the project. The Ohio Department of Development Governor’s Office of Appalachia awards and administers the funds.
Athens County has limited attainable, affordable housing options for elderly residents
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
April 2, 2024 | 11:09pm EDT
Athens County is currently home to nearly 10,000 elderly residents and has maintained a near 30% poverty rate for almost 25 years. Despite efforts from local officials and housing organizations, Southeast Ohio faces socioeconomic challenges that have stunted progress toward creating fully accessible and affordable housing for elderly residents.
Ohio University general fee funds university priorities
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
March 28, 2024 | 11:04pm EDT
Ohio University’s general fee, which most full-time students pay $712 toward each semester, pays for various student services across campus, but many students are unaware of the fee and what it goes toward.
Students demand restroom locks in residence halls after voyeurism incident
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
March 27, 2024 | 9:26pm EDT
Nearly a month after a report of voyeurism in Dougan House, students are calling for the university to take the initiative to add locks in residence hall showers to protect the safety and privacy of its students.
Ohio University renames LGBT Center to Pride Center
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
March 20, 2024 | 11:00pm EDT
Ohio University’s LGBT Center renamed itself the Pride Center Monday in an effort to use more inclusive and inviting language. The renaming, which the OU Student Senate unanimously passed in October 2023, was recognized by a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday.
Athens Green Card offers benefits to local business
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
March 17, 2024 | 9:05pm EDT
The Athens Green Card recently launched Feb 14 offering exclusive benefits at local businesses to students and residents aiming to bolster support and revenue for small businesses in rural communities, as opposed to corporate companies.
Diversity scholarships remain in review from Ohio Attorney General interpretation
By Olivia Gilliand and Donovan Hunt | For the Post
February 28, 2024 | 10:37pm EST
Ohio University is reviewing criteria in gift agreements, which can affect students of diverse backgrounds, in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling prohibiting affirmative action policies in college admissions last June. A university spokesperson said OU’s actions take into account advice sent to them from other experts in higher education and communication from Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost.
Diversity scholarships, legal protections for faculty threatened
By Olivia Gilliand and Katie Millard | For the Post
February 23, 2024 | 4:04pm EST
This is a developing story. Last updated Feb. 23 at 4:59 p.m.
Ohio University faculty has been unofficially mandated not to award diversity scholarships for the 2024-2025 school year, based on Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s interpretation of the June 2023 U.S. Supreme Court decision on affirmative action.
Heat problems continue at Ping Center
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
February 20, 2024 | 10:52pm EST
It has been over three weeks since Ohio University’s Charles J. Ping Recreation Center has had to close sections of its facilities and cancel group exercise classes due to complications with the building’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning, or HVAC system, according to a previous Post report.
Rise & Grind creates another local coffee option
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
February 5, 2024 | 10:55pm EST
With the addition of Athens’ newest coffee option, a food truck called Rise & Grind, there will now be four local coffee restaurants along the uptown area. This not only creates more options for coffee connoisseurs, but also potentially creates local competition among business owners.
Ohio University, University of Bayreuth partner for sports management degree
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
January 31, 2024 | 9:51pm EST
With help from the College of Business at Ohio University and the College of Law, Business and Economics at the University of Bayreuth in Bavaria, Germany, a double degree program in sports management has offered students a new take on studying sports business.
Ohio politicians, student senators push against restrictive transgender youth law
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
January 30, 2024 | 11:43pm EST
On Jan. 24, the Ohio Senate voted to override Gov. Mike DeWine’s veto against Ohio House Bill 68 The bill limits access to essential healthcare needs for transgender youth, including restricting transgender minors from receiving gender-affirming care and preventing transgender girls from taking part in girl’s and women’s sports.
How to Get Involved With Advertising and Public Relations in College
By Olivia Gilliand | For Ohio University’s Chapter of PRSSA
Like many universities across the country, Ohio University has no shortage of student-led publications and organizations for those interested in communications. However, finding relevant public relations and advertising focused clubs has proven difficult for many Strategic Communication undergraduates. Below is a list of my recommendations for students who want to get involved but don’t know how or where to start.
- Join your local PRSSA.
Public Relations Student Society of America is the collegiate chapter of PRSA (Public Relations Society of America). There are currently 400 active PRSA programs. This means your local PRSSA has access to exclusive internships, conferences, and job opportunities to help you broaden your network, build your resume, and hone your communication skills.
- Ask questions.
Collaboration is key in this industry. You are not going to, nor are you expected to, have all the answers right away. Do not be afraid to ask for help, clarification, or even just out of curiosity. Lean on your peer mentors and chapter leaders for guidance and learn from their experiences- they are there to help you get started. Starting now gives you more time to gain confidence and individual experience.
- Get creative
Because advertising and public relations is a vital part of any success organization, many student-led publications and organizations will have Advertising/ PR committees. Ask your campus newspaper to help raise advertising funds or promote their issue. Ask your college multimedia team for the opportunity to produce social media content for them. Good mentors will find a way to incorporate your ambitions and help you succeed. Remember, this is a learning opportunity- and we want you to succeed.
My First Semester in Scripps PRSSA
By Olivia Gilliand | For Ohio University’s Chapter of PRSSA
In the ever-evolving landscape of communication and mass media, the role of public relations has become increasingly important. As a first-year college student and a first-semester member of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), my journey has been a dynamic exploration of the field, filled with learning, networking and personal growth. As a new student, transitioning from the theoretical classroom environment to the practical world of public relations was initially overwhelming. However, the structured events and workshops organized by PRSSA proved to be instrumental in bridging this gap.
While theoretical knowledge is important, Ohio University’s PRSSA recognized the greater importance of hands-on experience. The organization provided numerous opportunities for members to apply their skills in real-world scenarios. From organizing events to executing social media campaigns, these experiences were resume-enhancing and expanded my understanding of the practical aspects of public relations.
The organization’s commitment to fostering professional growth was evident in the diverse array of speakers it brought to campus. Industry professionals, alumni success stories and seasoned practitioners shared their insights, providing valuable perspectives on the multifaceted nature of the public relations field. Workshops on resume building, interview skills, and personal branding equipped me with the tools necessary to confidently explore the professional world.
One of the highlights of my first semester was the extensive networking opportunities facilitated by PRSSA. Monthly meetings, mixers, and conferences allowed me to connect with fellow students who shared a passion for public relations. Moreover, engaging with professionals during these events opened doors to mentorship possibilities and internships. PRSSA’s emphasis on networking extended beyond local chapters. The organization’s affiliation with the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) provided access to a vast network of career opportunities and educational resources. Attending regional conferences allowed me to further my communication skills through diverse perspectives and ideas.
Beyond professional development and networking, PRSSA served as a supportive community. To outsiders, the PR and advertising industry can seem cutthroat. From day one, PRSSA welcomed me with open arms, providing a supportive community that shared my enthusiasm for public relations.The camaraderie among members fostered a sense of belonging and collaboration. Working on projects, sharing experiences, and navigating the challenges of the field together created a bond that went beyond the confines of the classroom. The mentorship programs offered by PRSSA further emphasized this sense of community. Establishing connections with upperclassmen and industry professionals allowed me to gain insights into the nuances of the profession and navigate the challenges that lay ahead through their experiences. Public relations is an inherently collaborative field, and PRSSA imitates this by fostering teamwork among its members. Working on group projects allowed me to appreciate the diverse perspectives and skill sets that contribute to successful campaigns. The camaraderie built within PRSSA not only made the learning experience enjoyable but also reflected the teamwork essential in the professional world of public relations.
As my first semester with PRSSA comes to a close, I reflect on the transformative journey I’ve experienced. The knowledge gained, the connections established, and the skills sharpened have laid a solid foundation for my future in public relations. With a deeper understanding of the industry, enhanced professional skills, and a network of supportive colleagues, I am eager to continue my journey as a PRSSA member, confident that the lessons learned will be invaluable in the years to come. I am eagerly anticipating the semesters ahead and I am grateful for the opportunities, guidance, and community that PRSSA has provided. Reflecting on my first semester as a member, I can attest to the invaluable experiences, insights, and connections that have enriched my understanding of the dynamic field of public relations, propelling me toward a future in public relations with enthusiasm and confidence.
Protestors gather around courthouse, show support for Palestine
By Olivia Gilliand , Jack Solon and Emily Stokes
January 27, 2024 | 12:36pm EST
Protestors gathered outside the Athens County Courthouse, located at 8 E. Washington St., Friday to show support for Palestinians amid Israel’s war on Gaza.
The protest follows a previous demonstration held in October by Athens community members at the same location. Around 100 people led chants, gave speeches and peacefully protested.
Aging HVAC system results in Ping closures
By: Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
January 25, 2024 | 10:29pm EST
The Ping Recreation Center, located at 82 S. Green Drive, has reportedly closed fitness studios and canceled group exercise classes due to complications with the building’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning, or HVAC, system.
Athens Football: Athens takes advantage of Meigs self-inflicted errors in 48-27 homecoming victory
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
September 30, 2023 | 7:50pm EDT
With a 48-27 win over Meigs County that included 315-yards of total offense, the Athens High School football program left Bulldog fans with an exciting homecoming victory to start the weekend festivities.
Athens Football: All you need to know ahead of Athens matchup with Meigs
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
September 27, 2023 | 11:39pm EDT
The Athens High School football program improves to 2-4 after last week’s victory against Logan. Following a difficult series of games on the road, Athens will return home to Joe Burrow Stadium to face Meigs. The Marauders come into Friday’s game with a 1-5 record and hopes of salvaging their season.
Athens Football: Athens gets first win of season in 55-7 blowout against rival Alexander
By Olivia Gilliand | For the Post
September 10, 2023 | 11:02pm EDT
It has been just under 365 days since the last meeting of long-standing football rivals Athens and Alexander. In a series spanning more than 25 games, this matchup was no exception to the intensity between the two Athens County teams and their beloved fans.
Notice an issue with a story? Contact me!