Press Releases
Franklin University is focused on promoting the value of our adult-centered education and to raise community awareness of our initiatives to local, regional and national media.
Reflected in Franklin's news stories is our vigilant awareness of the needs of business and industry, as well as our ongoing community involvement in central Ohio. Additionally, Franklin's partnership with more than 245 community colleges in 32 states through the Community College Alliance generates news items of interest in communities across the country.
The items posted in this section have been recently submitted to various news outlets.
Important Note: You will need Adobe's free Acrobat Reader software to view the Press Releases in PDF format. If you do not already have Acrobat Reader, you can download Adobe Acrobat Reader software.
Presidential Inauguration
Released May 7, 2008
Franklin University will celebrate the inauguration of its Fourth President, Dr. David R. Decker, on Friday, May 16. The ceremony will feature the pageantry of a robed academic procession - as well as greetings from Eric D. Fingerhut, Chancellor of the Ohio Board of Regents; Michael B. Coleman, Mayor of the City of Columbus; Greg Lashutka, Chairman of the Franklin Board of Trustees; and a number of other honored guests.
Franklin Announces the 9th Annual Community College Alliance Leadership Award
Released May 6, 2008
Franklin announced Darrel W. Staat, President, Central Virginia Community College (CVCC), in Virginia, has been chosen as the recipient of the 9th annual Community College Alliance Leadership Award.
Franklin Welcomes New Board Member
Released April 22, 2008
Franklin is pleased to announce the election of Thomas Shoupe as its newest Board of Trustees member. Shoupe currently serves as Senior Vice President at Honda of America Mfg., General Manager of Support Services. Appointed to this position and promoted to Senior Vice President in 2006, Shoupe is responsible for the Administration, Company Services, Accounting & Finance, Information Services and Compliance & Ethics teams. He is also a member of the Honda Operations Committee, serving with the company president and other senior officers on this policy-making group.
Franklin Holds 128th Commencement Ceremony
Released April 23, 2008
Franklin University will hold its 128th Commencement Ceremony, during which over 700 degree candidates will receive their diplomas at Veterans Memorial Auditorium on Sunday, May 11. Robert Morton Duncan will address the graduates. Duncan is currently serves as Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary of the Board of Trustees of The Ohio State University.
Tech Connect: So You Think You Want to be a CIO
Released April 1, 2008
Thinking about running an information technology department - or the entire information technology system for an organization? Join Franklin's Computer and Information Sciences Program as they Present Ron Morgan, Chief Information Officer, Franklin University, discusses what being a Chief Information Officer really means, what the job entails, and what you should do to prepare for such a job at its next Tech Connect event on May 12, 2008.
Everyday Ethics - Everlasting Consequences - A Presentation by Vince Crew
Released April 1, 2008
Ever wonder why ethics are at the heart of our everyday lives? Join Franklin's Marketing & Communication Program when they present Vince Crew, Advisor, Speaker, Author, and Founder of REACH Development Services as he discussed "Everyday Ethics - Everlasting Consequences" on Monday, April 21, 2008.
April Hall Leadership Lessons to Feature William Cooper
Released March 28, 2008
Hall Leadership Lessons will feature William Cooper, former Chairman of the Board and CEO of TCF Financial Corporation, during the April forum. Cooper will discuss “Leading with the Customer Out Front” - his approach to leadership and how he applied it taking Twin City Federal to the top of the banking lists for return on equity.
Fifth Annual Raymond E. Mason, Jr. Leadership Symposium
Released March 27, 2008
Join us on Thursday, April 24, 2008 as the Franklin University Leadership Center hosts its fifth annual Raymond E. Mason, Jr. Leadership Symposium - an event focused on raising the level of leadership in central Ohio.
Franklin University Designated a "Best Buy"
Released March 27, 2008
Franklin University is pleased to announce that its online Masters of Business Administration has been awarded a Top 40 "Best Buy" designation by GetEducated.com. The award signifies that Franklin's MBA program has been reviewed and judged to offer a high quality distance MBA to a national audience at tuition rates well below the national average.
Franklin Designated a Top 20 Online College
Released March 27, 2008
Franklin University is proud to announce that it has been ranked in the top 20 of the Online Education Database (OEDb) 2008 Online College Rankings. The rankings, based on data from eight metrics, provide students with a means of measuring the quality of online programs by providing a set of objective, quantitative measures.
Issues on the Horizon for the Accounting Profession
Released March 6, 2008
What are the hot issues projected for the ever-changing world of facts and figures? Find out when Franklin University’s Accounting Department presents Clarke Price, CAE, President and CEO, Ohio Society of CPAs at its next “Credits to the Profession” accounting speakers series event. Price will share his insights about the impact of baby-boomer retirements – and related job opportunities, the future of the auditing profession, Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) initiatives, International accounting standards, and the Ohio Society of CPA (OSCPA) image and advocacy initiatives.
March Hall Leadership Lessons to Feature Mike Schoedinger
Released March 3, 2008
Hall Leadership Lessons will feature Mike Schoedinger, President, Schoedinger Funeral & Cremation Service, during the March forum. Schoedinger will discuss “Keeping Your Business From Going Six Feet Under.” Hear how Columbus’s oldest family business has survived through six generations. This interactive presentation will engage the audience in thinking about their own organizations and what it will take to ensure longevity.
Franklin Welcomes New Board Member
Released February 13, 2008
Franklin University is pleased to announce the election of Dr. Harold H.S. Oh as its newest Board of Trustees member. Dr. Oh currently serves as Dean of University Advancement for the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) in New York. He has been instrumental in NYIT’s growth into China, India, and Santo Domingo. His expertise in international expansion will be a valuable addition to the Board as the University sets forth its own strategy for international growth.
Undergraduate Open House
Released February 8, 2008
On Tuesday, March 18, 2008, Franklin will host an evening designed to give potential learners the opportunity to learn about Franklin's 19 in-demand undergraduate majors. Franklin staff and faculty will be on hand to provide information on curriculums, schedules, and course requirements, as well as what it means to be a Franklin student.
Learn About the ABCs of IT Certification
Released February 1, 2008
Looking to fine tune your IT credentials? Or, are you looking to get started in the IT industry? Join us when Franklin University’s Computer and Information Sciences Program presents Michael Clark, Vice President and Network Engineer Lead, J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., discussing “The ABCs of IT Certification”, at its next “Tech Connect” speaker series event. During the February event, Clark will discuss the fundamentals of IT certifications: what do the certifications mean; how difficult are they to achieve; which are most valued by employers; and when to pursue a certification vs.. education.
February Hall Leadership Lessons to Feature Bill Lhota
Released February 1, 2008
Hall Leadership Lessons, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature Bill Lhota, President and CEO, Central Ohio Transit Authority, during the February forum. Lhota will discuss “Leadership with Integrity: What Leaders Do Counts” and the role of leaders in setting the right “tone” for high integrity leadership.
Robert L. Bailey Award Winners Announced
Released January 7, 2008
Franklin University, one of the leading educators of working adults in central Ohio, celebrated its 127th Commencement in a ceremony held Sunday, January 6, 2008. Along with congratulating the graduates, Franklin also recognized Nancy King Fidler and Niccole Chandler from its faculty as recipients of the distinguished Robert L. Bailey Teaching Award.
Franklin Holds 127th Commencement Ceremony
Released December 28, 2007
Franklin University will hold its 127th Commencement Ceremony, during which over 650 degree candidates will receive their diplomas at Veterans Memorial Auditorium on Sunday, January 6. Marsha Ryan will address the graduates. An experienced executive with expertise in energy issues, customer service and care, regulatory policy, governmental affairs, and board governance, Ryan was appointed Administrator/CEO of the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC).
January Hall Leadership Lessons to Feature Jean Reynolds
Released December 21, 2007
Hall Leadership Lessons, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature Jean Reynolds, Vice President, Director of the Program Management Office (PMO), State Auto Insurance Companies, during the January session. Reynolds will discuss the topic of “Leadership without Power.”
The Human Capital Institute and Franklin University Offer “Survive Business Transformation” Networking Event
Released November 27, 2007
The Human Capital Institute (HCI) (Washington, D.C), a global professional association and educator in talent management strategies, and Franklin University, a Columbus-based educator known for its focus on providing educational opportunities and choices for working adults, are pleased to announce the latest in a series of B-School Network and Learn events for the central Ohio business community. “Survive Business Transformation: Craft a Change Management Strategy,” a networking breakfast event, will be held on Wednesday, December 5.
2007 Accounting for Kids Day
Released November 5, 2007
Franklin University is proud to again join the Ohio Society of CPAs in giving back to the community by participating in this year's Accounting for Kids Day event. Through this event, Franklin’s faculty and staff use their knowledge to support local schools, improve their communities and brighten the financial future of thousands of children.
Community College Alliance Fall Accounting Seminar
Released October 30, 2007
Franklin's Community College Alliance (CCA) will host its Fall Accounting Seminar to give its CCA students and faculty the opportunity to network and learn more about career options in the fields of accounting, business and financial management. Attendees will hear from speakers on accounting career opportunities, exciting trends in forensic accounting, CPA requirements, as well as topics in other areas of interest.
Tri-Rivers Center for Adult Education and Franklin University Alliance offers LPN to RN Transition Program
Released October 25, 2007
Adults in search of their RN can now look to Tri-Rivers Center and Franklin University for more options – options that now include a pathway to a bachelor’s degree. This groundbreaking program allows students who have completed the Tri-Rivers Practical Nursing Program the opportunity to take eight prerequisite support courses online through Franklin University. Students who have completed the Practical Nursing program and the eight prerequisite support courses will have 48 semester hours of college credit, as well as previous college coursework, applied to Franklin University’s Healthcare Management major to pursue a Bachelor degree before or after the completion of their RN diploma. This degree will offer nurses the management skills needed for career development and enhancement.
November Hall Leadership Lessons to Feature Debra Plousha Moore
Released October 23, 2007
Hall Leadership Lessons, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature Debra Plousha Moore, Senior Vice President, Human Resources/Organizational Development, OhioHealth, during the November forum. Moore will share her organization’s mission in promoting an Employer of Choice culture to attract and retain the best talent. She will discuss key elements that EOC organizations share, such as an emphasis on health and wellness, learning and development, diversity and inclusion, recognition, and a competitive rewards program.
Accounting and Finance Networking Event and Open House
Released October 23, 2007
Franklin will host three evenings designed to give current and potential students a chance to learn about the opportunities that exist in the fields of accounting and finance, as well as how attending Franklin can prepare you for success. The three night event will include representatives from various accounting and finance organizations discussing employment opportunities as well as what is needed to succeed in these in-demand professions.
Franklin One of Only Ten Adult-Serving Institutions to Join "Transparency by Design" Initiative
Released October 22, 2007
At a news conference today at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., The President's Forum unveiled a major new accountability initiative that will provide a comprehensive action plan to elevate the quality of higher education available to adults. A key focus of the plan is to provide program-specific outcomes data that will allow students to make informed decisions about their education investment.
Undegraduate Open House
Released October 18, 2007
Franklin will host an evening designed to give potential learners the opportunity to learn about Franklin's 19 in-demand undergraduate majors. Franklin staff and faculty will be on hand to provide information on curriculums, schedules, and course requirements, as well as what it means to be a Franklin student.
Six Career and Technical Centers Join Franklin Alliance
Released October 8, 2007
Adults who are in search of career development and enhancement can now look to six additional Career and Technical Centers and Franklin University for more options.
Graduate Programs Open House
Released September 20, 2007
Franklin University, a leading educator of working adults in central Ohio, will host an evening designed to give potential learners the opportunity to position themselves for leadership by learning about Franklin’s three graduate Programs. Franklin staff and faculty will be on hand to provide information on curriculums, schedules and course requirements, as well as what it means to be a Franklin student.
October Hall Leadership Lessons to Feature John Baker
Released September 20, 2007
Hall Leadership Lessons, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature John Baker, SPHR, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching Practice Leader, Sequent, during the October forum. Baker will share his thoughts on organizational integrity – the leader’s role in aligning the actions of people with the goals of the organization.
Tech Connect: How to Land an IT Job
Released September 20, 2007
Looking to fine tune your IT credentials? Or, are you looking to get started in the IT industry? Join us when Franklin University’s Computer and Information Sciences Program presents Matt Miller, Pulsar Consulting, discussing “How to Polish Yourself to Land That IT Job”, at its next “Tech Connect” speaker series event. Featuring successful Information Technology (IT) professionals in non-traditional roles within the industry, the quarterly series is presented to computer science students and community members.
Franklin Participates in the United Way Community Care Day
Released September 18, 2007
Franklin University is proud to announce its participation in this year’s United Way Community Care Day. Joining a number of community-minded organizations, twenty-one Franklin employees will donate their time at J.C. Somner and Madison Elementary Schools in Grove City, helping to create an improved learning environment.
Franklin Gives Lincoln Park Elementary Students A Head Start
Released September 4, 2007
Franklin University is pleased to announce the donation of book bags and school supplies for the first grader class at Lincoln Park Elementary School. Identifying a need and the opportunity to help, Franklin staff and faculty gathered and assembled book bags and supplies for 65 first grade students at Lincoln Park Elementary.
September Hall Leadership Lessons to Feature Phil Sorentino
Released August 17, 2007
Hall Leadership Lessons, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature Phil Sorentino, CSP; Growth, Profit, and Enjoyment Advisor, Humor Consultant, Inc., during the September forum. Sorentino will share his thoughts on encouragement – affecting your and others behavior.
Franklin Announces Robert L. Bailey Teaching Award Recipients
Released August 14, 2007
Franklin University celebrated its 126th Commencement in a ceremony held Sunday, August 12, 2007. Along with congratulating the graduates, Franklin also recognized Ted Jones and Alisa DiSalvo from its faculty as recipients of the distinguished Robert L. Bailey Teaching Award.
Franklin Delivers the Perfect Summer Celebration
Released August 3, 2007
Franklin University, one of the leading educators of working adults in central Ohio, will deliver the perfect way to spend a hot summer afternoon when nearly 400 degree candidates receive their diplomas in a Commencement Ceremony held at Veterans Memorial Auditorium on Sunday, August 12.
August Hall Leadership Lessons to Feature Jack Marchbanks
Released July 24, 2007
Hall Leadership Lessons, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature Jack Marchbanks, Director of Transportation Marketing at PRIME Engineering & Architecture, Inc., during the August forum. Marchbanks will share his insights on leadership and the long view – forecasting the future.
Franklin Unveils Student Statues
Released July 18, 2007
Franklin University is pleased to announce the unveiling of two statues dedicated to the diversity of Franklin’s student population. In 2006, Franklin commissioned sculptor Gary Ross to create two life size statues in the likeness of two Franklin Virtual Campus graduates to represent the Virtual Campus student and serve as lasting physical reminders to all of the global diversity of Franklin University’s students.
Franklin Appoints Director of Military Relations
Released July 17, 2007
Franklin University is proud to announce the appointment of Darrin Adams as its new Director of Military Relations. Adams comes to the University not only as the Director of Military Relations, but also as a retired member of the U.S. Army.
July Hall Leadership Lessons to Feature Donna James
Released June 27, 2007
Hall Leadership Lessons, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature Donna James, Managing Director of Lardon and Associates, LLC, and Corporate Director for Coca-Cola Enterprises, Limited Brands, Conseco Inc., and Intimate Brands during the July forum. James will explore key elements of successful risk taking, as well as share her insights on leadership.
Franklin University’s Leadership Lessons Live! Has Changed its Name to Hall Leadership Lessons
Released June 27, 2007
Leadership Lessons Live is changing. The monthly forum will still deliver insights into leadership provided by today’s leaders in business, government, community
and education, but now with a new name. Hall Leadership Lessons, is named in honor of Franklin alumnus Eldon Hall (’58) celebrates his support and commitment to Franklin and its Leadership Center.
Franklin Presents its CPA Review Series
Released June 27, 2007
Franklin University is pleased to announce a new addition to its innovative, relevant offerings, its CPA Review Series. Open to all CPA candidates, from Franklin and other universities and colleges, Franklin’s CPA Review Series features the same look and feel found in all Franklin’s courses. Where Franklin’s CPA Review breaks learning barriers is in its presentation. Each CPA Review topic is addressed according to degree of difficulty: easy, medium or difficult.
Franklin University Announces eMarketing and Web Development Majors
Released June 22, 2007
Franklin University is announcing the addition of two new majors to its on campus and online offerings. Beginning Fall 2007, eMarketing and Web Development will be added to Franklin University’s undergraduate majors, giving Franklin students more career options than ever before.
Franklin University Announces Path-Breaking Financial Leadership Research Project
Released June 19, 2007
Franklin University announced the launch of a research project to collect data which links behavioral change in executives and managers directly to financial and valuation impact at the corporate level to show that behavioral assessment and development can have a direct impact on corporate financial outcomes.
Leadership Lessons Live! - June, 2007
Released May 20, 2007
Leadership Lessons Live, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature John Mess more, locally and nationally based entrepreneur, during the June forum. Messmore will share his insights on leading a life of value, focusing on simplicity, and harnessing the power of questions. During the session, he will share stories about life experiences that became lessons for his journey and talk about the “Ultimate Success Formula” he has followed.
Franklin Announces Robert L. Bailey Teaching Award Recipients
Released May 14, 2007
Franklin University, one of the leading educators of working adults in central Ohio, celebrated its 125th Commencement in a ceremony held Sunday, May 13, 2007. Along with congratulating the graduates, Franklin also recognized Diana Frole and Bethany Poore from its faculty as recipients of the distinguished Robert L. Bailey Teaching Award.
Franklin University Holds 125th Commencement Ceremony
Released April 30, 2007
Franklin University, one of the leading educators of working adults in central Ohio, will deliver a rather unique Mother’s Day present this year when almost 490 degree candidates receive their diplomas in a Commencement Ceremony held at Veterans Memorial Auditorium on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 13.
Tech Connect: Learn Why IT Jobs are In-Demand!
Released April 24, 2007
Bits, Bytes & Bucks. Do you know your worth in the Information Technology (IT) industry? Discover who’s getting paid what, and where IT job and salary trends are heading this year. Franklin’s Computer and Information Sciences Program is pleased to present the “Tech Connect” speaker series featuring successful IT professionals in non-traditional roles.
2007 Raymond E. Mason, Jr. Leadership Symposium
Released April 24, 2007
On April 26, 2007, the Franklin University Leadership Center will host its fourth annual Raymond E. Mason, Jr. Leadership Symposium - an event focused on raising the level of leadership in central Ohio for individuals from all organizational backgrounds - business, government, education and non profit. This year’s Symposium will focus on the topic of coaching in business – and in life.
Franklin Observes Moment of Silence for Victims of Virginia Tech Tragedy
Released April 20, 2007
Franklin University will observe a moment of silence today and ringing of the University Clocktower bells as we join Ohio Governor Ted Strickland in a statewide day of mourning for the victims of the Virginia Tech tragedy.
Franklin University Announces the 8th Annual Community College Alliance Leadership Award
Released April 16, 2007
Franklin University, the Columbus-based educator known for providing educational opportunities and choices for working adults, announced that Dr. Ken Ender, President, Cumberland County College (CCC), in New Jersey, has been chosen as the recipient of the 8th annual Community College Alliance Leadership award.
President Otte Shares Leadership Vision with Leadership Dublin
Released April 5, 2007
Dr. Paul Otte, President of Franklin University and Executive Director of the Franklin University Leadership Center, will share his insight and vision for leadership when he speaks to the 2007 Class of Leadership Dublin on “Firing Up Your Passion for Leadership.” Dr. Otte will share excerpts from his book, The Conflicted Leader and Vantage Leadership, as well as lead discussion on the issue of leading during conflict. The event is free and open to the public.
Leadership Lessons Live! - April, 2007
Released March 20, 2007
Leadership Lessons Live, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature Robert P. Restrepo, Jr., Chairman, CEO and President, State Auto Insurance Companies, during the April forum. Restrepo will share his insight into leadership, change, challenges and opportunities. Lessons he learned as he became the first CEO to be hired from outside State Auto Insurance Companies – just after the company was named “best managed in its industry” by Forbes.
International Business, Curriculum Leader Returns to Ohio to Lead Franklin University's 10,000 Students
Released February 19, 2007
Franklin University has chosen a leader in international business and academic programs to be the fourth president in the history of the Columbus-based school that has been a pioneer in developing curricula for adult students in central Ohio and around the world.
Leadership Lessons Live! - March, 2007
Released February 9, 2007
Leadership Lessons Live, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature Dr. Paula Butterfield, founder of Butterfield & Laning, LLC, during the March forum. Butterfield will share her insight into how to grow yourself and, in turn, grow others, to achieve self-awareness.
Take a Walk on a Wilder Side of Accounting
Released February 7, 2007
Calculators, spreadsheets and conservative suits. If this is your idea of the accounting profession then take another look. Franklin University’s Accounting Department is pleased to present “Credits to the Profession,” an accounting speakers series featuring extraordinary accounting professionals in non-traditional accounting roles. The series will host its next event on Tuesday, March 6, 2007 with featured speaker Greg Bell, Associate Director of Finance and IT of the Columbus Zoo. Bell will share his insights about working at the Columbus Zoo and a “wilder” side of accounting.
Franklin Board of Trustees Elect New Chair and Vice Chair
Released January 24, 2007
Franklin University, one of the leading educators of working adults in central Ohio, is pleased to announce the election of Greg Lashutka as its new Chair, and Marsha Ryan as its new Vice Chair of its Board of Trustees.
Leadership Lessons Live! - February 2007
Released January 12, 2007
Leadership Lessons Live, a free community leadership forum provided by the Franklin University Leadership Center, will feature Clarke Price, CAE, President and CEO, during the February forum. Price will share his insight into what distinguishes the truly exceptional organization from those that are merely “good.”
Robert L. Bailey Award Recipients Announced
Released January 9, 2007
Franklin University, one of the leading educators of working adults in central Ohio, celebrated its 124th Commencement Ceremony, Sunday, January 7, 2007. Along with congratulating the graduates, Franklin also recognized Pete Angus and Perry Maughmer from its undergraduate faculty as recipients of the distinguished Robert L. Bailey Teaching Award.