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Choose Ohio First Scholarships

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Choose Ohio First Scholars at NC State

Choose Ohio First (COF) provides scholarships for students pursuing degrees in STEM+M programs, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math and Medicine. Choose Ohio First Scholarships target these professions and encourage students to pursue training in these demanding fields. NC State offers a number of Certificate and Associate Degree programs that are eligible for COF awards including:

Choose Ohio First Recipients

Alumni Spotlight

From NC State Bioscience to Cornell University

As part of her financial aid package at NC State, Kelly Murray was awarded a Choose Ohio First Scholarship (COF), which helped her as an undergraduate immensely.  COF is a state-funded program for Ohio residents pursuing a major in one of the STEM+M fields. Now she is completing her Ph.D. from Cornell University.

Click here to read her complete story. (PDF)

    • Students enrolled in an eligible STEM+M program beginning with your first-term of enrollment at NCSC past high school or current students moving from pre-health classes into their program studies.
    • COF scholars must have a 3.0 high school GPA, 165 on both English and Math GED, or WorkKeys scores of five on each test for Adult Diploma graduates.
    • Students must apply to NC State and submit their high school (or equivalent) transcripts for consideration.

    • COF awards are renewable as long as funding remains available from the state of Ohio.
    • Scholars must remain continuously enrolled (summer optional) in one of the eligible programs.
    • They must maintain a 3.0 cumulative college GPA by the end of their second enrolled semester to continue the scholarship.

    • Choose Ohio First is funded by the State of Ohio
    • Awards range from $1,500 to $2,000 per academic year toward tuition.
    • Students must enroll for a minimum six credits per semester.
    • There is no family income limit for the scholarship.
    • FAFSA is not required, but encouraged, to assist students in finding all available financial aid.

    • North Central State College has been honored to participate in the Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program for more than 10 years. COF scholarships have helped thousands of students train for in-demand jobs and rewarding careers.

Lt. Gov. announces Tower Technician Program

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Request more informationTower Technician Program

Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted made a stop at North Central State College today for the announcement of a new Tower Technician Program at the James W. Kehoe Center in Shelby.  The certificate program is a partnership between NC State College and Governor Mike DeWine’s Office of Workforce Training (GOWT).  North Central is one of three sites selected across the state for this new training program.  The goal of the Tower Technician Program is to provide a reliable stream of qualified employees to support the expanding 5G networking needs of multiple utility providers throughout Ohio.

Lt. Gov. Husted believes the addition of the Tower Technician Program will play a crucial part in keeping our state up-to-date with new and improving technology.  “We have a lot of opportunity in our state to grow this industry.  This is the next generation opportunity to expand the 5G Network and high-speed internet,” he explains.  “With all of us working together in collaboration it allows us to get this done and our educational programs are an essential element.”

Dorey Diab, President of NC State was pleased the college was chosen, “The Kehoe Center is perfect for the Tower Tech program.  We have the space available and numerous laboratories already in place to support the training required. In addition, we’re excited to work with new industry partners to provide the qualified workforce they require. NC State is always striving to adapt to meet the evolving needs of our regional partners.”

The Tower Technician Program is in response to the substantial workforce shortage in several industries.  The program at North Central State College will prepare tower technicians for employment by providing training on numerous fronts including installation, maintenance, and repair on towers, antennas, microwave dishes, and lighting systems.  Students will learn how to perform routine inspections and tests while practicing safety on all levels.

“The program is serving a critical need, giving people the skills they need, and will also lead to great paying careers,” Husted said.  “Individuals who complete the program can earn $50-$60,000 in the first year on the job.”  The areas of training will include safety, basic rigging and fall protection, CPR/First aid, OSHA, RF awareness, capstan hoist, defensive driving, cell component, antenna basic, and NWSA certification training.

Those interested in the Tower Technician Program should visit ncstatecollege.edu/certificates/tower-technician/  or contact the North Central State College Admissions Team at 419-755-4761 or admissions@ncstatecollege.edu.

Rewarding Careers Helping Others

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In these tough times, nurses are needed more than ever.  As cases continue to rise from COVID-19 the nation is also battling a healthcare worker shortage.  Nurses are an integral part of the health care team and students in the North Central State College nursing program are eager to get out into the field and help those in need.

Sidney Cassidy is one of those students, eager to help and knows she was born to be a nurse.  “I’ve wanted to be one since childhood,” Cassidy explains.  “I am the oldest child in my family so it was just natural for me to have a caring personality.  Being able to change somebody’s life in the tiniest aspect, makes it that much more fulfilling.”

She is currently pursuing an associate degree in registered nursing at North Central State College.  “I had a child young, so going to a four-year college was not in the cards for me,” she says.  “North Central is allowing me to have the same education, as a four-year institution.  I can take some classes at home and still be able to be a mom and work full-time.”

Cassidy says the faculty and staff at NC State are very accommodating and understand the needs of the students.  “They just know that when students are coming to North Central they are not only coming to get an education but they also have a life outside of it,” she explains.  “Some of us have families and jobs.  We also have other things that are not just school and they understand.  They try to help you through as much as possible.” She says nursing school is tough but appreciates the one-on-one instruction and connection she can get with a small class size.  “They get to know you by your name, but just by a seat in the classroom.”

Cassidy is a mom with many responsibilities, one of the most important is being a good example for her daughter.  “When I first got my stethoscope to start the program, my daughter kept telling everyone I was already a nurse,” she says with a smile.  “I am bettering myself to better her life in the long run.  I want her to see that just because I had a child young it did not stop me from pursuing my dream”

One hundred percent of NC State grads seeking employment in nursing are employed.  In fact, many nursing graduates are employed before they graduate.  Some of our graduates are also encouraged by their employers to continue their education.  For Cassidy, she hopes to get a position at the Cleveland Clinic.  “The Cleveland Clinic would be a great hospital to work for and that is my end goal,” Cassidy says.”

She is on track to graduate in the spring of 2022.

Small Business Big Rewards

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Computers continue to change throughout the years, but the education one student received from North Central State College prepared him for the skills to keep up with the changing times.

Jason Eagleston is the owner of Richland PC and graduated with an associate degree in Information Technology – Networking in 2010.  This degree teaches students how to create, administer and secure servers and networking infrastructures while earning information technology certifications.

“The classes I enjoyed the most were programming and network security.  I had so many great teachers while attending North Central,” Eagleston explains.  “It is also close to home for me and offered classes I needed to prepare me for my future.”

Eagleston has been working with computers for over 20 years now.  “Computers have really changed over the years,” he says.  “Service packs used to be released every two years and now it is every month.  In addition, all of these transfer devices are cloud-based. The college was very valuable in the sense that it taught me to continue researching and keeping up with the trends.”

“The knowledge I received from the college included how to diagnose network issues, what programs to use, and skills for this type of market. I can now take apart a laptop and replace the motherboard in less than 12 minutes.”

He worked for Dell as a service technician for many years, traveling across the state replacing parts for computers.  He later opened Richland PC which has been operating for over five years in Ontario, Ohio.  Richland PC is a full-service computer repair company that specializes in computer repairs, virus removal, data recovery, networks, and business service as well as website and web services.

Along with running his own business, Eagleston has also developed software that is used in businesses involving medical transportation.

“North Central also prepared me for running a business,” he says. “I would not have known about some of the resources to take advantage of for small businesses if it was not North Central.   The college definitely pushed me in the right direction for my future.”

Fall 2021 Health & Safety Efforts

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As we begin the fall 2021 semester, the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff remain paramount. This fall, COVID-19 efforts will continue and your help is needed to keep everyone safe. Everyone is encouraged to continue being self-aware of their health.

  • Masks are required in all NC State buildings.
  • Health screenings will not be required to enter buildings.
  • Protocols will change as required by local and Ohio authorities and the Center for Disease Control.

Below are some frequently asked questions regarding our protocols for Fall 2021.

    • COVID infections are increasing due, in part, to the Delta variant.
    • Vaccination levels remain low.
    • Hundreds of NC State students and faculty are doing practicum and clinicals at health agencies and hospitals.
    • By wearing masks we protect others as we protect ourselves. If we prevent the outbreak from spreading, our campus can remain open, especially for those students who need in-person instruction and support.
    • The CDC is now urging universal indoor masking in schools regardless of vaccination status.

    • NC State will have a limited number of disposable masks available at various locations in its buildings.
    • To preserve this stock of PPE we encourage students to bring their own masks.

    • If you have a documented medical condition that aligns with the allowable CDC circumstances for not wearing a mask, please contact NC State’s Office for Specialized Student Support at 419-755-4727 or contact dheestand@ncstatecollege.edu

    • For now, NC State will not require persons entering its buildings to have their temperatures taken. However, if you are sick or experiencing new, or worsening symptoms, you are encouraged to stay home until this symptoms pass or you receive a negative COVID test. Please note the campus Child Development Center may follow different screening guidelines.

    • We only ask that students who test positive complete the form. All information will be kept confidential and only used to help facilitate supports for the student.

    • Building access will continue to be limited to one entry. NC State will continue to use social distancing within classrooms and laboratories. Facilities personnel will continue to sanitize classrooms and public spaces each night.

    • Many courses available in a fully live format are also available in a remote or hybrid format. However, given coming start of fall term we cannot guarantee an ability to switch sections. We encourage you to first prioritize your personal learning preference.
    • NC State will continue to offer remote supports and business services for students taking live or remote courses.

  • July 28, 2021

    Welcome to Fall 2021

    As we begin the fall 2021 semester, the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff remain paramount. This fall, COVID-19 efforts will continue and your help is needed to keep everyone safe. Everyone is encouraged to continue being self-aware of their health.

    As we begin the Fall 2021 Semester:

    • Masks will be required for everyone inside all NC State buildings. Reasons include:
      • COVID infections are increasing due, in part, to the Delta variant.
      • Vaccination levels remain low.
      • Hundreds of NC State students and faculty are doing practicum and clinicals at health agencies and hospitals.
      • By wearing masks we protect others as we protect ourselves. If we prevent the outbreak from spreading, our campus can remain open for students who need in-person instruction and support.
      • The CDC is now urging universal indoor masking in schools regardless of vaccination status.
      • If you have a documented health condition, we will work to accommodate your needs. Please contact NC State’s Office for Specialized Student Support at 419-755-4727 or contact dheestand@ncstatecollege.edu.
    • Building access will continue to be limited to one entry.
    • Health screening will not be required each day.
      • Exception – Child Development Center may follow different guidelines.
    • If you are sick, or are experiencing new, or worsening symptoms, you are encouraged to stay home until those symptoms pass, or you receive a negative COVID test.
      • Please communicate with your instructors.
    • If you are exposed to someone with COVID, or test positive, please communicate with your instructor.
    • Social distancing within classrooms and laboratories will continue to be used.
    • Everyone is encouraged to wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer; avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth; cover coughs or sneezes; maintain social distancing; and sanitize spaces when appropriate throughout the day.
    • NC State will continue to sanitize classrooms and public spaces each night.

    Our overarching goal is to keep everyone at NC State safe as we continue to navigate the pandemic. Your individual effort is key to making this goal possible, and to keeping our doors open for in-person learning and student support as we begin the 2021-2022 school year.

    For additional information, go to the FAQs on the website, or email nc-cares@ncstatecollege.edu.

    Tom Prendergast

    Vice President for Student Success and Institutional Effectiveness

    North Central State College

    Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction

    2441 Kenwood Circle, Mansfield, Ohio 44906

    tprendergast@ncstatecollege.edu

    419-755-4712 (office)

Making transfers easier

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More students than ever are beginning their college education while in high school and earning more credits affordably to transfer for their advanced degree. Thanks to a new grant, North Central State College students who choose to transfer after earning associate degrees in English, psychology, or biology will have an additional pathway to help with their transfer to private four-year colleges and universities. The Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts project includes 14 independent colleges and universities in Ohio to establish three pathways to a bachelor’s degree in English, psychology, and biology.

“College education is changing and students are looking for flexibility, affordability, and overall value,” says Kelly Gray, Vice President of Academic Services at North Central State College.  “This partnership helps make that process even easier. We appreciate the vision of the leaders who are working to make college credit transferable and the foresight of the students who recognize the value that transferable college credits represent.”

Project Director Winnie Gerhardt explains, “Losing credits during the transfer process can have severe consequences for students.  Not only does taking extra classes cost more and add to student debt, but it can also increase students’ time-to-degree or even lower their chances of graduating at all.”

The Ohio Consortium for Transfer Pathways to Liberal Arts will build on a solid foundation for community college transfer in the state of Ohio.  The Consortium and North Central State College will address some of the most challenging barriers faced by community college students transferring to four-year colleges and universities, including a lack of comprehensive advising and credit loss in the transition between institutions.

Gray says, “NC State will continue to look for opportunities to partner with colleges and universities that can provide pathways to help them reach their goals without accumulating overwhelming debt in the process.”

For additional transfer options click here.

Crawford Success Center welcomes new manager

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North Central State College has hired Bucyrus native, Nathan Harvey, as the manager of the Crawford Success Center.  Harvey graduated from Bucyrus High School in 2009.  He recently graduated from Franklin University with a master’s degree in Business Administration.

Most recently, Harvey served as a credit analyst at First Federal Bank of Ohio in Galion.  He is excited to continue to serve the community in his new role at the Crawford Success Center.

“I look forward to building on the foundation already established at the Crawford Success Center,” Harvey says.  “I am excited about the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with students, families and businesses throughout the area, and to help improve the future of the place I am proud to call home.”

The former manager, Amanda Sheets, has moved into the director of admissions, recruiting and gateway services position for North Central State College.

Harvey began his new position on July 11, 2021.  The center is open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

For more information contact:

Nathan Harvey

nharvey@ncstatecollege.edu

419-755-9039

Crawford Success Center

130 N. Walnut St. Bucyrus, OH 44820

NC State College celebrates first bachelor’s degree graduating class

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On May 7, 2021, North Central State College celebrated its first graduating class of Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology (BASMET).  The eight graduates were honored during a drive-through ceremony on the campus.

May 2021 BASMET Graduates (front row left to right) Luke I. Howard, Trevor D. Reed, Lucas Andrew Burkhalter, Joseph Stephen Ball. (back row left to right) Michael Jacob Adams, Isaac Joseph Baldridge, Hannah Jayne Haas, Mason Ray Hoskins.

“I’m proud that the first NC State Bachelor’s Degrees were awarded from our division. These graduates are in demand. Many are employed with a local manufacturer,” says Dan Wagner, dean of the Business, Industry, and Technology Division who helped develop the BASMET program and teach some of the classes.  “We’re proving that we can provide relevant programming that meets the needs of employers in our region. At the same time, it’s a great value for our graduates.”

“By earning credit in high school through College Credit Plus and College NOW, some of these graduates brought 2-years of credits forward into the bachelor’s program. That saved them thousands of dollars in tuition.  We’re providing BASMET degrees to younger students and many are graduating debt-free. It’s directly in line with the mission of NC State,” Wagner explains.

BASMET is the first bachelor’s program offered at NC State in its fifty-year history of serving the communities of North Central Ohio.  In the spring of 2018, Ohio’s community colleges were invited to explore offering bachelor’s degrees that responded to the specific needs of local employers in the regions they serve.  North Central applied to the State of Ohio and the Higher Learning Commission to offer the Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology with the support of numerous businesses in North Central Ohio.  This request was approved in March 2019.

NC State Receives Over $1.8M Choose Ohio First Scholarship Funds

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The Ohio Department of Higher education has awarded North Central State College a total of $1,818,339.50 in Choose Ohio First (COF) Scholarship Funds.  These funds will provide scholarships for students enrolled in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) coursework beginning with the 2021 school year.

This was the second-largest COF award in the state of Ohio. At NC State, students in seven areas of study are eligible to receive grant dollars: Bioscience, Integrated Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Visual Communications Multimedia Technology, IT Networking, and Cybersecurity, Nursing, Licensed Practical Nursing, and Respiratory Care.

“North Central graduates are entering the workforce bringing additional expertise in healthcare, manufacturing, and business,” Dean of Academic Services Toni Johnson at NC State College explains. “Employers need this pool of talented graduates to recover from the realities brought on by the pandemic – reduced revenues in many business areas, increased costs of doing business remotely, shortages of workers in healthcare, the growing threats of cyber-attacks throughout business, industry, and society. The Choose Ohio First scholars are filling this void right now.”

COF awards range from $1,500 to $2,250 per two-semester academic year and will help over 538 students over the next five years.

“Choose Ohio First provides an excellent opportunity for those students who stay in Ohio and continue their education to get the skills they need to succeed in promising career fields,” Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Randy Gardner said.

The Choose Ohio First scholarship program began in 2008 to increase the number of Ohio students enrolling in and completing STEMM programs at Ohio’s public and independent colleges and universities.  North Central State College has been awarding Choose Ohio First Scholarships to students since 2010.