Other News & Events
OhioHealth Employee Pursues Academic Dream
Donna York, a dedicated healthcare worker with 14 years of experience at OhioHealth, is taking a significant step toward advancing her career in nursing. Currently in her second semester at North Central State College, Donna is pursuing a Practical Nursing (LPN) certificate with the ultimate goal of becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). Her journey, supported by a partnership between OhioHealth and North Central State College Foundation, is a testament to her commitment to patient care and her resilience in balancing work, school, and family responsibilities.
For the past 14 years, Donna has worked in the emergency room at OhioHealth, in-patient registration and as a patient safety aid. During this time, she has had the opportunity to interact with countless safety agents, their families, and patients. It was through these experiences that Donna witnessed firsthand the dedication and compassion of nursing staff, as well as the profound impact they have on patients’ lives.
“Working in the ER, I quickly learned that every role is essential, but I’ve always felt a pull toward helping others more directly through patient care,” Donna says. “Helping people comes naturally to me, and that’s why I’m so excited to be pursuing my LPN certificate.”
Donna’s decision to return to school is driven by several factors, including the life-altering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As an ER worker during the height of the crisis, Donna saw firsthand the overwhelming strain on healthcare systems and the critical shortage of nurses. “COVID has devastated our communities and continues to impact lives every day,” she says. “That’s when I knew I had to seize the opportunity to make a difference and take the next step in my career.”
In addition to the desire to contribute to her community’s healing, Donna acknowledges that the financial strain caused by the pandemic and inflation also played a role in her decision to pursue nursing. “The financial challenges of COVID and inflation have affected all of us,” she explains. “Taking a new career path will not only allow me to make a greater impact, but it will also help me provide a better life for my family.”
Going back to school while working a third-shift job has not been easy, but Donna is determined to succeed. She credits her family, classmates, and the support from OhioHealth and North Central State College for helping make this challenging transition easier. “There have been times when I’ve had to rely on my grandkids to help me with my studies. It’s actually kind of cool talking to them about my school day,” she says with a smile.
Donna’s persistence and dedication have not gone unnoticed. The partnership between OhioHealth and the North Central State College Foundation has provided her with the financial assistance she needed to continue her education. Without this scholarship support, Donna admits that attending school would not have been possible. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity Ohio Health and North Central have given me,” she says. “It’s a blessing, and it’s allowed me to continue learning and advancing my career.”
As Donna works toward her LPN certification, she remains focused on her long-term goal of becoming an RN. She believes that advancing her education will allow her to contribute more effectively to her team and to the patients she serves. “Education opens new doors—not just for me, but for the entire community,” she says. “By advancing my skills, I hope to make a greater impact on the lives of those in my care.”
Donna’s 14 years of experience welcoming patients into Ohio Health’s emergency department have given her a strong foundation in patient care. Now, she’s ready to take that experience a step further and provide the care herself. “I’ve spent all these years welcoming patients into our care, and now I’m ready to be the one offering it,” she says.
As Donna’s journey continues, she remains filled with gratitude for the support she has received. “I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me,” she says.
A Path to a Brighter Future
Through her hard work, dedication, and support from OhioHealth and North Central State College, Donna is paving the way for a bright future in nursing. With a passion for helping others and a clear vision for her future, Donna is ready to continue her journey in nursing, confident that the best is yet to come.
Beebe Honored as Alumnus of the Year
North Central State College (NCSC) proudly recognizes Mike Beebe, a member of the Class of 1977 and holder of an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, for his remarkable contributions to the field of engineering and his dedicated service as a professor at the college.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements and dedication to student success, NCSC presented Mike Beebe with Alumnus of the Year during a ceremony on Thursday, October 3, 2024.
The event aims to celebrate the outstanding contributions of North Central State College alumni, whose creativity, bold vision, and community engagement embody excellence in our region.
Following his graduation, Beebe began his professional journey as a Quality Lab Technician at Shulman Plastics and later consulted as a Tool Designer with major firms like White/Westinghouse and Gelzer Systems. In 1980, he furthered his education at Wright State University, where he developed a passion for automotive manufacturing during his time at Dayton Electricar.
Beebe’s career progressed at the Transportation Research Center, allowing him to complete his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology from Franklin University. This milestone paved the way for positions as a Test Engineer at Chrysler Corporation and New Departure Hyatt General Motors.
Throughout the next 13 years, Beebe established his own firm, MSBeebe and Associates, and held prominent roles, including Vice President of Engineering at First Technology Safety Systems and the Vehicle Research and Tech Center, serving the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). He also served as Vice President of Engineering for Denton ATD, Humanetics.
Beebe says he wouldn’t have been able to start achieving all of his accomplishments without coming to North Central first. “I’ve been everything from a board member for a company, to starting two companies, working for Chrysler and General Motors, working for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, all as an engineer/VP engineering/VP engineer” he explains. “I have been lucky enough to do it all. And it all started here. It’s all something I wouldn’t even have been able to do as just a little guy from Plymouth. Coming here first helped open doors. This community needs this college to open up the door for people.”
In 2000, Beebe founded Midget Motors LLC, dedicating his expertise until returning to North Central State College in 2012 as a professor of Engineering. Known for his infectious enthusiasm and commitment to education, he has become a beloved figure among students and colleagues, actively seeking partnerships that enhance students’ understanding of engineering across various industries.
Not only did Beebe gain his degree at North Central, he also met his wife at the college, “NCSC is where I found a career, a wife, and a future.” His commitment to the field is further exemplified by his 45-year membership in the Society of Automotive Engineers, along with his role as a Sunday school teacher and trustee at his church.
Fall Open Houses
Explore Your Future!
Topics include
- Degree and certificate programs offered at NC State
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- Completing the FAFSA and using Financial Aid
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October 29, 2024
Crawford Success Center – Bucyrus – Open House Crawford Success Center, 130 N Walnut St, Bucyrus, Ohio 44820
5:00PM – 7:00PM
5:00PM – 7:00PM
- Health Science, Business, Engineering Technology, Public Service, and Liberal Arts
- Tour the facility
- Meet the staff
- Financial Aid Q & A
- Find out how easy it is to enroll at NC State
Register for Crawford Success Center Open House, opens in a new window
November 7, 2024
Main Campus – Mansfield – Open House Henry R. Fallerius Center, 2441 Kenwood Circle, Mansfield, Ohio 44906
10:00AM – 12:30PM
10:00AM – 12:30PM
- Health Science, Transfer, and Public Service
- Tour the Health Sciences or Fallerius facilities
- Financial Aid Q & A
- Find out how easy it is to enroll at NC State
November 11, 2024
Kehoe Center – Shelby Campus – Open House James W. Kehoe Center for Advanced Learning, 175 Mansfield Ave., Shelby, Ohio 44875
10:00AM – 12:30PM
10:00AM – 12:30PM
- Business, Industry, Engineering Technology, and Transfer
- Tour the facility
- Financial Aid Q & A
- Find out how easy it is to enroll at NC State
Two-Factor Authentication for Students
The IT Team are implementing two-factor authentication for student accounts accessing the North Central State College network. Students will now be required to authenticate their accounts before gaining access to NCSC network and related systems. Authentication will occur using the Duo app on a mobile device or with an authentication fob.
Students who attended NCSC during the summer term have already activated two-factor authentication. The switch-over for all remaining students occurred on Monday, August 26th.
When students log in for the first time, they will be prompted to install/setup the Duo app on their personal device. Personal device must be a “smart” (mobile-web-app-capable) cell phone/tablet. If the student does not have a personal device, they will have the option to obtain an authentication fob (hardware) from the Business Office (Byron Kee Hall, Room 140) or the IT Helpdesk (Fallerius Hall, Room 074).
Students who pick up an authentication fob will be asked to sign an equipment agreement. The agreement will stipulate that the fob will be used during the summer term and must be returned at the end of the term to the Business Office. Failure to return the fob will result in a $25 fee added to their account.
If students have any trouble downloading the Duo app or authenticating to the network, please refer them to the IT Help Desk (Helpdesk@ncstatecollege.edu \ 419-755-4734).
Taking Flight After Graduation
When she was a sophomore at Crestview High School, Emily Weaver discovered a way to challenge herself in academics and accelerate the pursuit of her future career. Not only did she complete her associate degree (while still in high school), but she also served our country at the same time in the Air Force Reserves.
Through the College-NOW Business program, she became a full-time college student during her junior and senior years, allowing her to graduate high school with an associate’s degree. Weaver’s College-NOW classes met in Ashland, but were taught by professors from NC State.
“I chose to pursue the College-NOW Business program, which allowed me to work on my Associate of Arts in Business Administration,” she explained. “After two years, I ended up graduating both high school and North Central State College in the spring of 2024.”
Choosing NC State was important for Weaver because of College Credit Plus (CCP) and the College-NOW opportunities that allowed her to be enrolled in college and high school at the same time. She was the first student from Crestview in her grade to participate in the program. As she shared her experiences, more students became interested in the program, which also offers bioscience and engineering options.
“North Central gave me the work ethic and social skills that are highly sought after in any career path,” she said. “At first, adjusting from high school academics was challenging. I had a bad habit of procrastinating, but I knew I wanted a head start for my future career. The College-NOW program helped me learn how to study properly and put in the work needed for each class.”
In her junior year, she enlisted in the Air Force Reserves. She attended drill weekends once a month while finishing school and will leave for basic training in July, following her two graduations. Her drill weekends included briefings and training for basic skills needed in the Air Force.
The decision to join the Air Force Reserves was influenced by several factors, including financial assistance for college and the opportunity to travel. “I always knew I didn’t want to be trapped with debt for years after completing college,” she said. “The Air Force Reserves offer great benefits, and the job I chose, loadmaster, allows me to travel and handle cargo on C-130 planes.”
Balancing sports, a full college schedule, Air Force duties, and a part-time job was challenging, but she managed it all with determination and support from her family. “My dad always told me I had to do things others weren’t doing to get ahead. I have big goals, and I knew I had to get going sooner rather than later. My family has really pushed me to be the best version of myself my entire life, and I am thankful for it now,” she says. “I wouldn’t have gotten this far if it weren’t for them and North Central.”
“The instructors were wonderful, they always put so much into each student and gave us all of their attention and best effort.”
Her future plans include serving in the Air Force Reserves part-time while furthering her education in Marketing. She aims to either advance in the Air Force or work a civilian job while continuing to serve in the Reserves.
She encourages other students to take full advantage of CCP classes and the College-NOW program. “It offers students free college courses and can help them gain the skills they need for the future.”
At NC State, we congratulate Emily on her graduations, acknowledge her for breaking new ground for students from Crestview to follow, and thank her for serving our country in the Air Force Reserves.
North Central State College to hold Human Services & Social Work Career Expo/Job Fair
North Central State College is pleased to announce its upcoming Human Services & Social Work Career Expo/Job Fair, inviting the community to join in an effort to bolster the social work workforce within our community.
The event will provide networking opportunities for current professionals as well as prospective students interested in exploring careers in human services and social work. Enrollment advisors will be on hand to assist those interested in Human Services and Social Work careers, applying to a program or certificate, obtaining FAFSA guidance and scholarship opportunities for HMSV students.
It also aims to provide a platform for agencies to recruit employees and interns, as well as to share information about the vital services they offer. The Expo will take place Tuesday, June 18, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Fallerius Building Conard Student Lounge at North Central State College.
In addition to networking opportunities, the Expo will feature a food truck offering complimentary refreshments, and a guest speaker.
Dr. Tonia Pace, organizer of the event, encourages all interested parties to attend and take advantage of this unique opportunity to connect with both potential employers and valuable resources.
To register go to https://northcentralstatecollege.wufoo.com/forms/xj7k4vy1m70d9x/.
For more information about the Human Services & Social Work Career Expo/Job Fair, please contact Dr. Tonia Pace at tpace@ncstatecollege.edu.
Students Crash Test Vehicles
On May 2, 2024, cutting-edge 3D printed vehicles, designed by engineering students from North Central State College, underwent crash testing at the Honda Marysville facility. Last year students in the program had a chance to bring their PVC vehicles to the facility to be crash-tested. This marks the first time the students designed and produced their vehicles using 3D printers.
The objective was to design a vehicle that would pass the major injury criteria from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the head, thorax, and knee of a passenger if the vehicle was involved in a 19 MPH crash. Two distinct designs, crafted by separate teams of NC State engineering students, underwent rigorous testing each reaching speeds of 19 MPH.
During the tests, the vehicles were equipped with fully instrumented crash test dummies provided by Honda. The students’ vehicles showcased advanced safety features including custom belt systems and collapsible steering columns.
Despite the intensity of the tests, both crash test dummies passed injury requirements, marking a significant milestone in automotive engineering.
The Blue Vehicle Team, comprised of Kennadi Easter, Rebekah Haudenschild, Cheyenne Polen, and John Evans, and the Black Car Team, consisting of Noah Tuttle, Brady Zehe, Quinton Frankhouse, and Carson Barnes, demonstrated exceptional innovation and expertise, setting the stage for further advancements in vehicle safety technology.
According to the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC), over two million car accidents happen a year with over 40,000 deaths. Behind each of these numbers is a life tragically lost, and a family left behind. The research conducted by engineering students at North Central State College aims to shed light on the safety measures inherent in vehicles, including 3D-printed go-karts, with the ultimate goal of potentially saving lives.
Innovative Pathways
Chance Mullins, a 20-year-old with a talent for mechanics, has taken an unconventional route through his education to find himself on the verge of a promising engineering career. On Friday, he earned his bachelor’s degree two years earlier than most traditional students by taking the path from CollegeNow to the Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology (BASMET).
Mullins’ journey began back in 2020 when he was a student at Ontario High School. It was during this time that he stumbled upon an intriguing opportunity – a chance to pursue a college associate’s degree while still in high school. This unique pathway, offered through the CollegeNow program, appealed to Mullins as a way to fast-track his education and enter the workforce sooner.
Mullins went from CollegeNow, a two-year program that allows high school juniors to enter North Central State College on a track to earn their associate degree as they complete their last two years of high school, directly into his junior year of the bachelor’s degree program.
“I have an uncle who’s in engineering and I always thought what he did was interesting,” Mullins recalls. “And then my brother graduated from the North Central State College BASMET program. I just liked the structure of getting out of high school and getting the chance to get a degree.”
North Central State College’s BASMET
program teaches students advanced skills in designing and making high-quality products and systems through hands-on projects and instruction in computer software, math, science, and engineering. Graduates are well-prepared for competitive jobs in various industries.
Choosing this accelerated route meant that Mullins had to bid farewell to traditional high school experiences. Yet, in exchange, he gained access to a world of opportunities that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.
“My favorite part of the CollegeNow program was being around kids from other local schools. We got to have a lot of fun and do a lot of stuff you normally wouldn’t get to do in high school, like building our go-karts to race” he says.
As part of his academic journey, he embarked on an internship, a requirement for the Choose Ohio First scholarship he was awarded. Balancing full-time studies with a demanding internship wasn’t easy, but Mullins saw it as an investment in his future. His dedication paid off, as he now finds himself on the cusp of transitioning from intern to full-time employee.
“I ended up going to CNG; Charter Next Generation,” he explains. “I was full-time during my internship, so I was Monday through Friday, 40 hours. And then once I started back in the fall, my boss asked me if I wanted to stay on part-time. And I was like, yes please,” he says.
CNG, headquartered in Chicago, operates manufacturing facilities in four states, with a significant presence in Lexington, Ohio. They produce blown, cast, and barrier solutions that are ideal for food, consumer, industrial, healthcare, and other protective applications.
“Following graduation, I will soon be interviewing for a full-time position with the company,” he says.
Mullins credits the unique opportunities available through programs like CollegeNow and Choose Ohio First for paving the way to his success.
Mullins advises, “It’s the best investment because I graduated with only paying about $200 out of pocket. There are so many opportunities for scholarships.”
As Mullins prepares to graduate at the age of 20, ahead of many of his peers, he acknowledges the sense of accomplishment.
“It feels weird to be graduating at 20 because a lot of my friends are still there in four-year colleges now,” he admits. ” I’m ready to start getting into the workforce already.”
For Mullins, the road to success hasn’t been without its challenges. From balancing rigorous coursework with real-world experience, he’s faced obstacles head-on and emerged stronger for it.
“We were tasked to make go-karts using PVC pipes, that’s what we were supposed to do, but it kind of got a little iffy because of COVID. So, it was hard trying to get some of the parts to come in. Ours didn’t end up getting finished just because of all the delays,” he recalls.
Despite the setbacks, Mullins remains undeterred in his pursuit. With a job offer on the horizon and a wealth of experience under his belt, he’s poised to make his mark in the field of engineering.
Mullins was one of 14 students who walked across the stage during the Spring 2024 commencement.
“It’s worth going on for your bachelor’s degree in the BASMET program at North Central because they have a bunch of other fun project classes you get to do and it saves you money,” he says with a smile.
As he looks towards the future, Mullins remains grateful for the support and opportunities that have shaped his journey thus far.