Early Childhood Studies Evening in Cincinnati

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

5:30-8:30pm

Union Institute & University

440 E. McMillan St.

Cincinnati, Ohio 45206-1925

Please join us for a night devoted to the field of Early Childhood Studies. Special guest speaker and President of Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education, Eileen Cooper Reed, B.A., Esq. will deliver a compelling and insightful presentation.

Discover how to enhance your skills and knowledge from Early Childhood professionals. Learn about the early learning education reforms in Ohio affecting children ages newborn to five years. Union’s Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dean, Department Chair, Program Advisor, faculty, and enrollment counselors will be available to answer your questions and discuss your academic goals.

This event is free and open to the public. RSVP by July 3, 2013 to juanita.johnson@myunion.edu or (513) 487-1163.

Learn more about Union Institute & University's Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Studies.

Union's Cincinnati Center Partners with Tom Geiger House

Union staff members with paper product
donations collected for Tom Geiger House.

In the true spirit of helping their neighbors, employees at Union Institute & University’s Cincinnati academic center have been organizing generous donations of items for the Tom Geiger Guest House. The program is part of the community service project Union Has Heart, which aligns with the university’s mission and vision.

Tom Geiger House helps the homeless and those in transition, serving mostly mothers with small children. They come seeking relief from poverty, neglect and abuse, and to build a brighter future by completing their education or job training. Geiger House is truly a neighbor, located within a mile of Union Institute & University’s Walnut Hills-area headquarters. The Union has Heart donations will be used in Geiger House welcome bags, including products such as toilet paper, garbage bags, soap, tissues, paper towels, dish soap, bleach, cleaning supplies, bedding, and gift cards.

Sophie Stanford, a transcript specialist in Union’s registrar’s office, helped organize the partnership with Tom Geiger Guest House. She notes “Geiger House families are moving into apartments, they are on the path to self-sufficiency and they need basic necessities. While Tom Geiger House provides resources and support, Union’s donations will go a long way to create a positive effect, improving lives and thereby, communities.”

A large box has been set up in the Cincinnati academic center lobby for staff and faculty to easily and conveniently donate items needed by Geiger House residents.  Each month a different category of product has been collected. Since the beginning of February, the Union has Heart campaign has amassed stacks of soap, paper products and personal care items that have gone directly to the Geiger House. 

“We truly appreciate Union Institute & University taking on this special project for the benefit of the people we serve in this facility. They are indeed a great community partner for us,” said Rob Festenstein, Individual Giving Coordinator with Talbert House, which operates Tom Geiger House.

“In order to truly engage, enlighten and empower, we must each reach out where we can to be a beacon of hope and help. We are empowering people in a small way to improve their lives,” adds Stanford. “I believe that organizations such as Tom Geiger House are some of the true gems in any community. They are a beam of light when things seem so bleak for some. This is why I am so very happy that we, as an academic center, can extend a helping hand to them. The work that they do is invaluable.”

Learn more about how Tom Geiger Guest House serves the Cincinnati community.

Read Soapbox Cincinnati's coverage of this story: UIU Employees Team Up to Support Women in Transition.

Dr. Nelson Soto named Provost & VP Academic Affairs

Nelson Soto, Ph.D.

CINCINNATI, OH – Union Institute & University President Roger H. Sublett announced the appointment of Nelson Soto, Ph.D. as provost and vice president for academic affairs. Dr. Soto will provide leadership to assure the quality of the university’s academic programs, advancing the university’s mission of engaging, enlightening and empowering students, and continuing development of enrollment. Dr. Soto replaces Dr. Richard S. Hansen who retired in January 2013 after serving for eight years.

Dr. Soto comes to Union Institute & University from Harrison College, Indianapolis, where he served as associate provost and vice president for curriculum and instruction since 2010. Prior to Harrison College, he served as an assistant dean in the graduate office at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) from 2008 to 2010 and as an instructional development specialist at IUPUI’s Center for Teaching and Learning from 2005 to 2008. Dr. Soto has served as faculty at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis in the School of Education; at Indiana University, College of Arts and Sciences; University of Missouri-Columbia, College of Education; and the University of Cincinnati, University College.

In announcing the appointment, Dr. Sublett said, “Dr. Soto comes to Union at an important moment in the university’s history. As we prepare to celebrate 50 years in 2014, he brings a renewed sense of the visionary and entrepreneurial perspective held by our founders when they sought to create a new university in 1964.” Dr. Sublett continued, “Nelson will help us all to solidify our unique university’s distinctions, and to provide rigorous academic programs, complete with the appropriate technology and skill sets that fit the lifestyles of today’s adults –students from across a wide spectrum of cultures and identities who balance education, career, and community responsibilities in a changing environment.”

Dr. Sublett also noted that Dr. Soto will play a pivotal role in the life of the university, its administration, and its students. This position addresses the needs of a diverse adult student population across all levels of baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral programs. With oversight for all aspects of academic programs, policies, strategies and initiatives, as well as the accreditation process and continuing assessment for the university, Dr. Soto will work collaboratively with constituents across the spectrum to ensure the advancement and strength of the entire institution.

Dr. Soto holds a Ph.D. in educational policy studies from Indiana University, Bloomington, and bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Cincinnati. His dissertation research focused on teachers’ perceptions and beliefs of Latino middle school immigrants, particularly rural communities that witnessed an increase in Latino immigrants within the past decade.

He has focused on access and retention, faculty and organizational development, administration of programs for marginalized student populations, creating and fostering internal and external relationships, and assessment. As the campus director for the National Science Foundation, Alliance for Graduate Education and the Professoriate at IUPUI, he managed the federal grant, while developing and fostering relationships with Hispanic-Serving Institutions and Historically Black Colleges and Universities. He also was responsible for promoting teaching excellence among faculty through consultations, course design, and facilitation of workshops on best practices in teaching and student learning.

A founder of the Multicultural Teaching and Learning Institute at IUPUI, he created a forum for faculty members to promote multicultural content in teaching and curriculum, including multicultural course transformation and serving students with disabilities. He was also charged with enhancing minority attainment diversity, and served on the Diversity Assessment Team, promoting multicultural course transformation within the School of Education curriculum.

Dr. Soto has served on several boards, including Harvard Business Publishing Advisory Board, Cengage Private Sector Advisory Board, Pearson Service Learning Board, and was chair of the Harrison College Military Advisory Board. He has received numerous grants for his research and efforts, including from the Office for Professional Development, Research Grant ($20,000), the Alliance for Graduate Education and Professoriate Dissertation Grant, a Professional and Organizational Development Network Grant, and the Maris M. Proffitt and Mary Higgins Proffitt Fellowship at Indiana University.

Dr. Soto has also served as a program coordinator of the McNair Scholars Program at the University of Missouri-Columbia; and a graduate coordinator of ethnic programs and services and judicial affairs at the University of Cincinnati.

Social Work Open House & Celebration

March 28, 2013

4-6 pm EST

Cincinnati, North Miami Beach, and Online

In celebration of Social Work Month 2013, the Student Council for Union’s B.S. in Social Work Program is hosting simultaneous Social Work Open House events in Cincinnati and North Miami Beach. Social Work Month is an annual public education campaign of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). This open house event welcomes all who are interested in the field, including students, alumni, prospective students, and practicing social workers.

Special guest speakers will give brief presentations.  The evening’s program and election of 2013 B.S. Social Work Student Council officers will begin at 4:45 pm. Light refreshments provided.
Union’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work prepares students for generalist practice with individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations. The degree program engages students in a real-world approach and close mentoring relationships that foster professional development.

Learn more about our social work academic program at www.myunion.edu/socialwork.

Can’t attend this event in person?
Connect by live remote | Call-in: 1-866-951-1151 | Conference ID: 9060558

Florida: 
RSVP to adlore.casseus@myunion.edu, 305-653-7141 x2126
Florida Academic Center
16853 N.E. 2nd Ave, Suite 102
North Miami Beach, FL 33162

Cincinnati:
RSVP to tanya.delvalle@myunion.edu, 513-487-1209
Cincinnati Academic Center
440 East McMillan Street
Cincinnati, OH 45206

Cincinnati, OH - Open House

Thursday, November 15, 2012
6:00 - 7:30pm

Join us for our Cincinnati open house to learn about Union Institute & University’s flexible bachelor’s and master’s programs. Classes are forming now. Light refreshments provided. University representatives will be available to answer questions and discuss your educational goals. We look forward to seeing you!

If you have questions contact Ken at (513) 487-1252 or ken.fritz@myunion.edu

Union Institute & University
440 East McMillan
Cincinnati, OH 45206

Cincinnati, OH - Returning to College Seminar

How Can I Return to College?

A free, public information session

Monday, November 12, 2012
6:30pm - 9:00pm

Are you thinking about returning to college? You can do it and Union can show you how! Learn how to finish your academic degree while balancing your busy lifestyle at this FREE, public seminar.
RSVP by 11/9:
lifelonglearning@myunion.edu or
(513) 487-1168.

Schedule:

6:30 pm – Light dinner & refreshments

7:00 pm - Dayle Deardurff, J.D. Director, Lifelong Learning will present: selecting a major, projected earnings and occupational growth, choosing a local college, and accreditation.

7:45 pm - Eric Mast, MA, Writing Center Coordinator will present: time management, writing skills, studying, and technology.

8:15 pm - Dr. Carolyn Turner, Dean of Bachelor of Science programs in Cincinnati will present: financing, costs, scholarships, financial aid, transferring credits, and budgeting.

9:00 pm - Closing remarks

Union Institute & University

440 East McMillan

Cincinnati, Ohio 45206

Union Hosts First Conference Day

The Dream No Longer Deferred: The Transformative Power of Education

Keynote Speaker: Peter Block

A Conference Day Featuring Union Institute & University Faculty

Union Institute & University’s inaugural Conference Day was held October 12, 2012 at the university’s Cincinnati Academic Center. Author, consultant and Cincinnati resident Peter Block delivered the keynote address, The Restoration of Community, to a full audience. Other highlights of the day included a compelling discussion of the Role of Leadership and the Community featuring Union Institute & University President Roger Sublett, Ph.D. and Provost Richard Hansen, Ph.D. The afternoon was filled with break-out sessions covering a wide range of topics that reflected the diverse specialties of Union’s faculty.  Subjects included police and school partnerships, wikis, maternal child health, cultural self-awareness, social justice and student debt demonstrations. 

For more information: Conference Day 2012 

UI&U Board Elects New Chair and Trustee

CINCINNATI – Union Institute & University (UI&U) today announced that Virginia Ruehlmann Wiltse, Ph.D., was elected chair of its board of trustees at its annual meeting on Friday, January 27, 2012. Trustees also approved Union’s new executive committee which includes Dr. Wiltse as chair; Cincinnati-based Don Feldmann, president and CEO of Rippe & Kingston Capital Advisors, Inc., as vice-president and treasurer; and Union President Roger H. Sublett, Ph.D. as secretary. Bruce Weinstein, Ph.D., author of Ethical Intelligence and host of Ask the Ethics Guy on Bloomberg Businessweek online, was elected to serve as a trustee, joining 13 others.

Wiltse, who succeeds Dr. Betty Overton Adkins, is co-founder and director of the Caring Response Madagascar Foundation (CRMF), the Cincinnati-based non-profit that creates and supports programs in education and healthcare for the poor in Madagascar. Wiltse and her son David Wiltse, launched CRMF in 2001. Among the multiple projects launched since its inception are the WomanWorks Initiative micro-lending project; adult literacy and native language books projects; and a creative arts initiative to teach sanitation and hygiene practices to the urban and rural poor. In November 2011, CRMF partnered with U.S. and Malagasy organizations for their largest project to date that provided specialized training, equipment and supplies to Malagasy physicians and midwives to prevent postpartum hemorrhage and handle pre-term and low-birth weight babies.

As the former development director for Seton High School, Wiltse played a pivotal role in a $13.5 million expansion and renovation project that features state-of-the-art science and technology facilities, an enhanced fine arts program, and a 1,000-seat gymnasium. She also previously served as foundations committee chairperson for the Seton capital campaign.

Wiltse has more than 20 years’ experience as a freelance writer, presenter, and multi-media producer. She began her earlier career in broadcast news working for WLWT, AM/FM, Cincinnati WTIC-TV, AM/FM, in Hartford, Connecticut WFSB-TV, Hartford, Connecticut.

Wiltse served for nine years as a trustee of the Sisters of Charity Ministry Foundation and was a member of the fundraising steering committee for the order’s Bayley Place Wellness Center for mature adults. Her numerous honors over the years include the Mother Seton Award for service to the Sisters of Charity and the Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for service to Seton High School. In 1984 the Cincinnati Enquirer honored Wiltse as a Woman of the Year for her achievements and community service.

Wiltse earned her Ph.D. from Union in 2000. In addition to her doctorate, she holds an M.A. and a B.A, both in history, from the University of Cincinnati.

Bruce Weinstein, Ph.D.

Union’s newest trustee is nationally recognized ethics consultant and author Bruce Weinstein, Ph.D. Weinstein currently hosts the series Ask the Ethics Guy on Bloomberg Businessweek online, where he also writes an ethics column. His clients include the National Football League, the National Guard (South Carolina Division), the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, the National Business Aviation Association, Help Desk International, Vistakon/Johnson & Johnson, Pri-Med Continuing Medical Education, the Eastern Michigan University College of Business, and more than 300 other schools, businesses, and non-profit organizations.

Weinstein has appeared on NBC’s “The Today Show,” ABC’s “Good Morning America,” CNN’s, “Anderson Cooper 360,” CNBC’s “Power Lunch,” MSNBC’s “Live,” and many other national television programs.

Weinstein’s most recent book, Ethical Intelligence: Five Principles for Untangling Your Toughest Problems at Work and Beyond (New World Library, 2011), was recently listed as a top five business book on WashingtonPost.com and a top ten business book in WirtschaftsBlatt, Austria’s only business daily. Weinstein’s work has been published in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Chicago Tribune, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Investor’s Business Daily, and Family Circle. He was profiled in the in-flight magazines of American Airlines, Delta Airlines, USAirways, and United Airlines. His previous book, Is It Still Cheating If I Don’t Get Caught? (Macmillan/Roaring Brook Press, 2009), shows tweens and teens how to solve many of the ethical dilemmas they face at school and with family and friends.

Weinstein received a B.A. in philosophy from Swarthmore College, a Ph.D. in philosophy and bioethics from Georgetown University, a certificate in film production from New York University, and is the recipient of a national fellowship from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. He maintains the website, TheEthicsGuy.com.

NYU Professor Named Scholar-in-Residence for Upcoming Ph.D. Residency

George Shulman, Ph.D.

CINCINNATI, OH – Union Institute & University (UI&U), a private, non-profit university headquartered in Cincinnati today announced that George Shulman, Ph.D., professor at The Gallatin School of Individualized Study at New York University, will serve as the scholar-in-residence for the upcoming Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies residency held in Cincinnati January 2-10, 2012.

Shulman teaches and writes on political thought in Europe and the United States, as well as on Greek and Hebrew - tragic and biblical - traditions. His teaching and writing emphasize the role of narrative in culture and politics. He is the author of Radicalism and Reverence: Gerrard Winstanley and the English Revolution and American Prophecy: Race and Redemption in American Political Culture (2008). His most recent book, American Prophecy, was awarded the David Easton Prize in political theory. Focusing on the language that great American critics have used to engage the racial domination at the center of American history, American Prophecy explores the relationship of prophecy and race to American nationalism and democratic politics. Shulman is a recipient of the 2003 NYU Distinguished Teaching Award.

Shulman’s keynote, “Vernacular Theology: Race, Prophecy and Ideas of Redemption in American Politics" analyzes the underlying grammar and vernacular idioms of political speech in the United States, by focusing especially on the ways that critics have formulated their opposition to white supremacy and racial inequality. The central claim is that "prophetic" language is a vernacular theology in the wider culture and the crucial language of opposition to racial domination.

For more information about the upcoming Ph.D. residency please contact Nicole Hamilton, UI&U public relations manager, at nicole.hamilton@myunion.edu or at 513-487-1194.

Jeff Sellers Joins Union as Director of Development

CINCINNATI - Union Institute & University today announced it has hired Jeff Sellers as director of development. In his role, Sellers will oversee fundraising efforts for the national, private, non-profit university headquartered in Cincinnati.

Sellers comes to Union with more than 11 years of experience orchestrating successful development initiatives and fundraising efforts including: capital campaigns; major gifts; grants, and corporate solicitations; annual fund drives; direct mail; online fundraising; planned giving; and special events.

“Jeff’s wealth of experience will be put to good use in assisting Union in its future fundraising efforts,” said Dr. Roger H. Sublett, president of Union Institute & University. “We are delighted to have attracted an individual with the talent and experience that Jeff brings to the university.”

Most recently, Sellers served as the director of fund development for the Cincinnati Chapter of the American Red Cross. In this role he managed a comprehensive fundraising program that included direct mail, online giving, major gifts and planned giving. His efforts doubled the number of major donors and significantly increased the organization’s overall number of donors. Prior to his role as director of fund development, Sellers served as a major gifts officer for the Red Cross, managing the largest Biker’s Ball in chapter history and raising more than $165,000 at the annual event for the organization.

Prior to joining the Red Cross, Sellers served as a fundraising manager for the Kids in Need Foundation in Dayton, where he guided and managed the volunteer fundraising and marketing committee of more than 10 members and conducting the Kids in Need’s first $1 million annual campaign. He also provided leadership at Wilberforce University, where he served as a major gift officer for four years before accepting his position at Kids in Need.

Sellers holds an M.B.A. from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio and a Bachelor of Science (cum laude) from Heidelberg College in Tiffin.

"Lincoln on Leadership" Author to Deliver Keynote at July 8 MLK Legacy Luncheon

Donald T. Phillips

Donald T. Phillips helped pave the way toward the creation of a new genre of books on historical leadership

CINCINNATI, OH - As part of its ongoing mission to engage the community in dialogue that creates positive social change and inspire servant leadership, Union Institute & University’s (UI&U) Ph.D. program will host the biannual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Luncheon, Friday, July 8, from noon – 1:30 p.m. at the Kingsgate Marriot in Clifton. Bestselling author and expert on historical leadership, Donald T. Phillips, will deliver the keynote address titled “Social Change and the Role of the Scholar.”

“We are honored that Donald Phillips will serve as the guest speaker for the upcoming MLK luncheon,” said Dr. Nancy Boxill, coordinator of UI&U’s Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies Martin Luther King Jr. Specialization. “His exploration into the leadership styles of Martin Luther King Jr. and Abraham Lincoln - among other great leaders –serves as an important tool for our scholars who are applying MLK’s leadership practices to their own work in making lasting change in their communities.”

Phillips first became interested in leadership as an executive working for a large corporation in the late 1980s. Seeking ways to become a better manager, he found that seminars and books on leadership emphasized worker productivity but had little consideration for people. This led him to learn about leadership by studying the life and work of President Abraham Lincoln.

His first book, Lincoln on Leadership, paved the way toward the creation of a new genre of books on historical leadership and served as his inspiration for a trilogy on America leadership that also includes The Founding Fathers on Leadership and Martin Luther King, Jr. on Leadership. Today, Phillips is also an internationally-acclaimed speaker on historical leadership and has worked with companies including Lockheed Martin and Oracle, addressing executives on effective leadership.

Union’s biannual MLK Luncheon is an integral part of the university’s MLK Studies specialization within the Ph.D. program and is held twice yearly in conjunction with Ph.D. residencies in Cincinnati. The July 8 luncheon, from noon-1:30 p.m., will be held in the Grand Ballroom at the Kingsgate Marriott, 151 Goodman Drive, Clifton. The event is open to the public, however, seating is limited. Cost is $25 and includes lunch. To reserve tickets contact Nicole Mayes-Boyd, senior program specialist, at 513-487-1142 or at nicole.mayes-boyd@myunion.edu.

Partnership With Columbus State Community College Grows

Union is the only outside university that offers a “3+1” opportunity on-site at the community college

CINCINNATI – Union Institute & University (UI&U) today announced that it will bring four additional bachelor of science programs to Columbus State Community College (CCSC), providing more opportunities for Columbus State students with an associate degree to earn a bachelor of science degree from UI&U, the private, non-profit university headquartered in Cincinnati.

In September 2010, UI&U faculty began teaching courses on-site at Columbus State’s downtown campus to CSCC students who are enrolled in UI&U’s sport management concentration with a goal to earn a UI&U BS in leadership. The first class exceeded the enrollment goals, and prompted the two higher learning institutions to add additional BS degree programs in criminal justice, early childhood studies, emergency services management, and business management.

“We are pleased to be able to create structured learning experiences that meet the specific needs and career objectives of Columbus State graduates,” said Dr. Carolyn Turner, UI&U undergraduate dean. “By working closely with Columbus State faculty, we were able to design degree programs that are not only in line with the goals of the Columbus State student, but also reinforce UI&U’s dedication to providing relevant and academically-challenging undergraduate programs that fit the lifestyle of today’s busy students.”

While Columbus State has many agreements with nearby colleges and universities, UI&U is the only outside college that offers a “3+1” opportunity onsite at CSCC. Students can take all four years of their bachelor’s degree at Columbus State with the first three years offered by CSCC and the last through classes offered by Union. This offers students a substantial savings on their tuition, and provides a convenient and accelerated path to attain a bachelor’s degree.

"Columbus State has a history of working with other institutions to offer a variety of options for our graduates to continue their education," says Will Kopp, vice president for Institutional Advancement. "Union Institute & University offers a fresh option by providing instructors and classes for CCSC students directly on the Columbus State downtown campus. That arrangement is a very convenient option for our students."

An articulation agreement recently established between UI&U and Columbus State allows Columbus State students from selected programs to transfer appropriate course work toward their bachelor’s degree at UI&U. In addition, graduates of Columbus State’s associate degree programs who transfer into UI&U’s undergraduate program receive a 10 percent discount on the tuition rate. They also receive a tuition scholarship for the last four credits if they maintain continuous enrollment in good standing with UI&U.

Courses in criminal justice management begin in late June and business management, emergency services management, and early childhood studies courses, all leading to bachelor’s degree with these specific majors, will start in September 2011.

For more information about the new programs please contact Nicole Hamilton, UI&U public relations manager at 513-487-1194 or nicole.hamilton@myunion.edu.

Cincinnati Center Hosts Degree Completion Open House June 8

CINCINNATI, OH - Union Institute & University (UI&U), a private, non-profit university headquartered in Walnut Hills, will host an Undergraduate Open House for those interested in learning more about the university’s undergraduate degree completion programs, from 2-7 p.m., Wednesday, June 8, at the Cincinnati Academic Center located at 440 East McMillan Street. Faculty will be on hand at the open house to talk to potential students, and enrollment counselors will be available to evaluate transcripts on-the-spot.

Since 1964, Union has offered degree completion programs designed for adults who seek a customized, faculty-directed degree program that fits their busy schedule. The university offers B.A. and B.S. degree programs in a variety of majors including liberal studies (with five areas of concentration including writing, psychology, and sustainability), as well as business management, business administration, criminal justice management, leadership, early childhood studies, emergency service management, and social work. In addition, Union is one of the only higher education institutions in the country to offer a BS in maternal child health: lactation consulting.

Union’s accelerated undergraduate degree programs incorporate the students’ prior transfer credits earned at other universities or colleges, consider the students’ relevant professional experience and knowledge, and identify a set of remaining courses that reflect the students’ personal goals and satisfies UI&U degree requirements. Unlike most universities, Union does not put a time limit on transferring in credits earned at other higher learning institutions.

Reservations for the June 8 open house are not required, but recommended. For more information contact Union Institute & University’s Cincinnati Academic Center admissions personnel at admissions@myunion.edu or at 513-487-1219.

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Dr. Sylvia Manning, HLC President, to Deliver National Commencement Keynote

Dr. Sylvia Manning

CINCINNATI, OH – Union Institute & University (UI&U), a private non-profit university headquartered in
Cincinnati today announced that Dr. Sylvia Manning, president of the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, will serve as the commencement speaker at UI&U’s National Commencement, Saturday, October 15, at the Cincinnati Hilton Netherland Plaza in downtown Cincinnati.

The Higher Learning Commission is one of six regional institutional accreditors and the oldest accrediting organization in the United States. Under the authority of the North Central Association (NCA), the HLC currently accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in 19 states and is officially recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation for its commitment to promoting the highest standards in higher education.

Appointed by the HLC Board as president in 2008, Manning’s vision has been to strengthen participation of the Commission's institutional leaders in helping to create the voice of the Commission on issues of state, regional, and national importance. She is committed to keeping accreditation timely, relevant, and accountable for members of the public and, most importantly, for the students served by HLC accredited institutions.

“We are deeply honored that Dr. Manning will serve as Union’s national commencement speaker,” said Dr. Roger H. Sublett, president of Union Institute & University. “Her leadership of the Commission is paramount in the advancement of academic excellence in our country. Dr. Manning has been instrumental in providing stellar leadership during a time of change and challenges in higher education. Dr. Manning is ultimately committed to the student, ensuring that the institutions of higher learning provide high quality, innovative, and relevant education.”

Manning previously served the University of Illinois for 13 years, the last eight as Chancellor of the University of Illinois at Chicago. Prior to joining the University of Illinois in 1994 as Vice President of Academic Affairs, she served in a number of faculty and senior leadership roles at the University of Southern California and California State University, Hayward. She has served on regional accreditation teams for the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education as well as for The Higher Learning Commission and as a public member for a specialized accrediting agency for degree programs in nursing.

Manning holds a Ph.D. and an M.A. from Yale University in English language and literature and a B.A. in English from McGill University.

For more information about UI&U’s National Commencement contact Nicole Hamilton, public relations manager at 513-487-1194 or at nicole.hamilton@myunion.edu.

Professor Dr. Ellen Marshall Honored

Cincinnati, OH--

The criminal justice instructor earns a Celebration of Teaching award for her dedication to UI&U learners

Dr. Ellen Marshall, coordinator and instructor for Union Institute & University’s online criminal justice program, was honored recently by the Greater Cincinnati Consortium of Colleges and Universities for her exceptional dedication to the teaching profession and to her learners. At a luncheon held at Xavier University, the GCCCU paid tribute to Dr. Marshall by presenting to her a Celebration of Teaching award.

“She’s a superstar,” said Dr. Carolyn Turner, dean of UI&U’s undergraduate programs, of Dr. Marshall. “She understands the needs of the adult learner and she plays an invaluable role at UI&U with regards to the development, implementation, and oversight of the criminal justice program. And her experience and first-hand knowledge make her an exceptional instructor.”

As a Delaware police officer, Dr. Marshall was assigned to the Patrol Division, Special Operations Division, and the Criminal Investigations Division. She earned a Ph.D. in psychology from the UI&U, focusing on police psychology and traumatic stress in the emergency services. Dr. Marshall is currently writing a text on traumatic stress in law enforcement and developing a Reintegration Program for officers returning from military deployment. A lifelong learner, she is working on her third graduate degree in educational leadership and a certificate program in educational technologies. Dr. Marshall also served as a faculty advisor for UI&U’s undergraduate program in psychology. In addition to her work at UI&U, Dr. Marshall also serves as a faculty member in the Criminal Justice Department for Delaware Technical & Community College.

Dr. Kevin Sharpe, Union Institute & University Professor, was Founding Editor of Science and Spirit Magazine

CINCINNATI, OH -

Dr. Kevin Sharpe, a core professor at Union Institute & University’s (UI&U) Graduate College, died Thursday, November 6, of cancer, in New Plymouth, New Zealand. The longtime UI&U doctoral faculty member was 58.

Sharpe began his career at UI&U in 1987. “Kevin was a vibrant colleague and scholar who personified the tradition of the UI&U hallmark quality of interdisciplinary perspective/ inquiry,” said fellow faculty member, Dr. Larry Ryan. “Kevin had a way of stimulating learners – and colleagues – to look beyond usual explanations and rationales to discover new meaning and new knowledge.”

Throughout his more than 20 years as professor, Kevin supervised numerous dissertations and also served as the chairman of the concentration chairs in UI&U’s pre-cohort Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies program since 2005. He was an ultimate lifelong learner, Union scholar, and interdisciplinarian, having merged a deeply scientific mind with his spirituality. His impressive CV details his activities and accomplishments, but notable achievements include his work as founding editor of Science & Spirit Magazine and its companion Web site and recipient of a major multi-million dollar grant to fund the magazine from the prestigious John Templeton Foundation in 1995. Having been ordained as an Anglican priest in 1976, he wrote often about this topic, and served as co-director of the Oxford Institute for Science and Spirit, president of Science & Spirit Resources, Inc., and vice president for Interdisciplinary Affairs at the Institute on Religion in an Age of Science. “He believed that we as humans are most of all meaning makers and that the way to show our love for our world is by continuing to explore it, coming to know more, and then asking more questions so that our explorations never end,” said his wife, UI&U alumna Leslie Van Gelder.

Sharpe earned a B.S. in mathematics, a master of divinity, a master of theology, and two Ph.D.s; one in mathematics from La Trobe University in Australia and the other in religious studies from Boston University. He served as a fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in Religion and Science in Chicago, a director of the Institute for Emerging Physics and Biology, a member of the editorial advisory boards for the Anthropology of Consciousness, Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science, and the Center for Humility Theology at the John Templeton Foundation. In addition, he was the author of more than 130 journal articles and a number of books, including Science of God: Truth in the Age of Science, Sleuthing the Divine: The Nexus of Science and Spirit, David Bohm’s World: New Physics and New Religion, and Has Science Displaced the Soul? Debating Love and Happiness. And, among his many interests was the exploration of the early cave paintings and markings, a topic he taught, lectured, and wrote about extensively.

“Kevin made a difference in many of our lives, touching countless learners and colleagues at Union and beyond. Obviously, he learned a long time ago how to celebrate the very best of the human spirit, and every interaction available to us,” said UI&U President Dr. Roger H. Sublett. “His considerable intellect was complimented by a deep spiritual caring which, from my experience, is unique among academicians. I admired both in him, and know that it served him well.”

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his mother, Pamela Sharpe; his sister, Karen; daughters Miriam and Kiri and their husbands; and his only grandson, Max. His father, James Henry Sharpe, passed away earlier this year. Messages and well wishes for the family can be sent to Leslie Van Gelder Box 111 Glenorchy 9350 (or leslievg@ksharpe.com). Donations can be made in Kevin’s name to the New Zealand Cancer Society, to the Quebec Labrador Foundation in the US, and Harris Manchester College in the UK.

Services and burial will be held on Thursday, November 13 in New Plymouth, New Zealand.

Breastfeeding Expert Named Advisor to Union Institute & University’s Maternal Child Health: Lactation Consulting Program

CINCINNATI –

Union Institute & University (UI&U) has named breastfeeding and lactation consulting expert Anna Cadwell Blair, Ph.D., CLC, as advisor of the university’s maternal child health: lactation consulting program. Dr. Blair is known internationally for her work on breastfeeding and is the co-author of Maternal & Infant Assessment for Breastfeeding and Human Lactation, now in its second edition, and Reclaiming Breastfeeding for the U.S. Prior to her appointment as advisor, she served as an adjunct professor for Union’s master of arts in health and wellness program.

“We are very fortunate to have Dr. Blair expand her role here at Union,” said Dr. Carolyn Turner, Dean of the Cincinnati Undergraduate Center. “Our learners now have the opportunity to be guided through the program by an internationally known expert.”

Dr. Blair operates a clinical practice at the Massachusetts-based Center for Breastfeeding, part of Healthy Children, a non-profit research and educational institution dedicated to improving child health outcomes through partnerships with public, private and non-profit agencies. She is a frequent speaker at national and international conferences on children’s rights, children’s health, maternity practices and post partum support. Dr. Blair earned a master’s degree in organizational behavior from Vermont College, and a Ph.D. in health communication from Union Institute &University. Her mother, Dr. Karin Cadwell, her father, and her sister, are also Union graduates.

Union’s bachelor’s degree in maternal child health: lactation consulting prepares learners for a career as a lactation professional. Graduates of the program will be qualified to professionally counsel expectant mothers and mothers of young infants about best practices for the care and feeding of the young infant, and may also be qualified to provide instruction for and/or make presentations to the medical profession (especially in a hospital setting), and community, governmental, and non-profit agencies. The program also prepares graduates to sit for the International Board Certification for Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) examination offered by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. The flexible program is ideal for busy adults, as most of the courses can be taken online and the seminars are held all over the country.

Union will host an information session about the bachelor’s degree in maternal child heath: lactation consulting, from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, November 13, at Union Institute & University, 440 East McMillan St., Walnut Hills. Dr. Blair and maternal child health faculty will be available to discuss the program, the International Board certification process, and career opportunities in this growing field. Parking is free, refreshments will be served. To reserve a space or for information contact: Michelle Chevalier at 513-487-1219, or email michelle.chevalier@tui.edu.

Union Institute & University Hires Dr. Toni Gregory as Assistant Dean of Cohort Ph.D. Program

CINCINNATI –

Union Institute & University has hired Dr. Toni Gregory as Assistant Dean of the Cohort Ph.D. program. Dr. Gregory has an extensive background in leadership, management and organization theory and specializes in the study of organizational learning and the impact of culture and complexity on organizational transformation. She has been a core faculty member at the Fielding Graduate Institute in the School of Educational Leadership and Change from 1997-2007, where she also served as an administrator for the Grounded Theory/Grounded Action Research Concentration.

David Gergen to Deliver Keynote Address at Union Institute & University's National Commencement

The senior political analyst for CNN and advisor to four U.S. presidents will host a talk, open to the public, September 28


CINCINNATI – Union Institute & University (UI&U) is honored to announce that David Gergen, one of the most important voices in leadership and U.S. politics and public policy, will deliver the keynote address at UI&U’s national commencement ceremony, Saturday, September 27, in the Hall of Mirrors at the Hilton Netherland, downtown. Union will also present Gergen with an honorary Doctorate in Letters for his work as a leader who puts country before politics.

Gergen is the director of the Center for Public Leadership at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. He is the editor-at-large at U.S. News & World Report and is a senior political analyst for CNN. He also served in the White House for Presidents Nixon, Ford, and Reagan before agreeing to serve as counselor to President Clinton on both foreign policy and domestic affairs, and then as a special international advisor to the president and to Secretary of State Warren Christopher. Gergen also regularly serves as an analyst on radio shows, and he is a frequent lecturer at venues around the world. In the fall of 2000 he published a best-selling book titled, Eyewitness to Power: The Essence of Leadership, Nixon to Clinton.
Gergen was the editor of U.S. News for two-and-a-half years. While working to guide the magazine to record gains in circulation and advertising, he also teamed up with Mark Shields for political commentary every Friday night for five years on the MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour. The two won numerous awards for their political coverage.

Currently, Gergen is actively covering the U.S. Presidential election for CNN, and he will again add his voice of expertise and experience to the political frontier when he reports on the upcoming presidential debates, the first of which will take place on September 26, a day before he visits Cincinnati.

Union will also host a Q&A with Gergen, titled Breakfast with David Gergen, from 9-11 a.m., Sunday, September 28, at UI&U, 440 East McMillan St., Walnut Hills. The event is open to the public, however, seating is limited and priority is given to journalism and political science students, who may preregister by calling Nicole Hamilton at 513-487-1194, or by emailing at Nicole.hamilton@tui.edu. This event is free. Coffee and bagels courtesy of Marx Hot Bagels.

Union Institute & University Hosts Information Session for Prospective BS Learners

CINCINNATI- Join us on Saturday, August 9, 2008 for an informative gathering regarding the Union Institute & University Bachelor of Science program.

Check-in 9:30-10:00 am
10:00 am-12:00 noon

Cincinnati Academic Center, Room 100
440 E. McMillan St.
Cincinnati, OH 45206

Learn how you can earn your bachelor’s degree through Union Institute & University’s flexible, accelerated degree completion program. Get started on the path to earn your bachelor’s degree while maintaining your job, family, and community commitment. Faculty, admissions staff, and financial aid counselors will be available to answer your questions.

Refreshments will be provided.

Questions? Please contact Admissions Counselor Marc Weber at 513-487-1225 or marc.weber@tui.edu