Provost Prospectus Search for The Executive Vice President and Provost Table of Contents

Search for The Executive Vice President and Provost The Opportunity ...... 2 The Role of the Provost ...... 4 Opportunities and Expectations for Leadership...... 6 Professional Qualifications and Qualities...... 8 Procedure for Candidacy...... 11

The University 150 Years of Innovation and Growth ...... 14 Colleges and Academic Distinctions ...... 16 Research ...... 21 Community Engagement ...... 23 Faculty ...... 25 Student Life ...... 28 Alumni ...... 30 Athletics ...... 31 Governance ...... 32 Budget ...... 34

Appendix I - UA Organizational Chart ...... 35

Appendix II - UA OAA Organizational Chart ...... 36

Mission Statement ...... 37

City of Akron ...... 38 Search for The Executive Vice President and Provost The Opportunity

The University of Akron (UA) in diverse disciplines. UA offers nearly Business Administration, Applied invites nominations and expressions 20,000 students a wide variety of Science and Technology, Education, of interest for the position of in-demand associate’s, bachelor’s, Polymer Science and Polymer Executive Vice President and Provost master’s, doctoral and professional Engineering, Law, the Graduate (“Provost”). This new leader will be degree programs with a career-focused School, the non-degree-granting the second-ranking officer of the emphasis. As a STEM-intensive Williams Honors College, and a branch University and a close partner of institution, UA has strong connections campus (Wayne College), along with President Gary L. Miller, who began with industries such as polymers, three other sites in Northeast Ohio. his tenure in October 2019. advanced materials and engineering. UA brings together a diverse group The Provost will be a forward- The University of Akron is one of of learners — full-time, part-time looking academic leader with the Ohio’s most influential public urban and online students, veterans, and vision, leadership skills and strategic research universities, conducting adults returning to the classroom management experience to take UA to high-quality research in focused — enrolled across eleven colleges the next level of academic excellence areas of excellence, contributing to and schools, including Engineering, and student success. Embracing the vitality of the local economy, and Health Professions, Arts and Sciences, the mission of public education in providing a workforce highly trained an urban environment, the Provost

2 will understand and strengthen The University of Akron’s next Provost • Recruit and develop a high- the important social, cultural and will have the opportunity to contribute performing team of new economic roles public education plays to the University’s future successes college deans; in the city, region and state. Equally and achieve the following professional important is the need for the Provost and personal aspirations: • Partner with a seasoned President to apply strong management skills and energetic corps of faculty, in implementing the next phase of • Serve as a passionate advocate of contract professionals and staff; and the academic mission to enhance UA’s overall strategic plan, including • Actively engage as an influential ensuring an aggressive enrollment the University’s success, reputation and quality; leader in the city of Akron as well as strategy; recruiting and empowering a the region and meaningfully impact strong team of entrepreneurial deans; • Personally oversee the the quality of life for people across advancing the University’s research implementation of the academic the state of Ohio. prominence and productivity; and affairs elements of a thoughtful championing UA’s commitment to and comprehensive strategic plan For information regarding how to make creating a framework for excellence that will further strengthen the a nomination or to express personal that incorporates diversity at its core. University’s mission, impact and interest in this position, please see resources; the section titled “Procedure for Candidacy” on page 11.

3 The Role of the Provost

The Executive Vice President and UA’s strategic priorities. The Provost strong academic standards, and Provost serves as the chief academic works with members of the Board of expanding research. As an important officer of The University of Akron Trustees and appropriate committees part of this process, the Provost works with responsibility for academic on issues related to academic affairs with the deans, Academic Division leadership. This position has recently and other issues as delegated by staff, and the advancement team been reestablished following a the President. to identify new sources of financial reorganization and restructuring of support — including grant and UA’s Office of Academic Affairs. This The Provost assumes a lead role in philanthropic donations — for existing executive also serves as the second- UA’s strategic planning for academic and new programs. The Provost leads in-command senior officer for the programs, fostering the development University processes for accreditation University and plays a leadership and enhancement of high-quality of the institution by the Higher role in all aspects of the University’s certificate, associate, baccalaureate, Learning Commission as well as the management, including working with master’s, doctoral-level and professional accreditation of individual the President, senior leadership team professional programs through ongoing academic programs. and the Board of Trustees to shape review and assessment, ensuring

4 The Provost reports to the President staff members (full-time and part- • Ensuring that the curriculum is of and serves as the senior member of time) in the colleges and schools. The high quality and relevant to today’s the cabinet, which currently includes General Fund Budget for the colleges students and employers; the following senior leaders: Vice is approximately $91 million; this is President/Chief Financial Officer, for salaries only, as fringe benefits • Overseeing UA’s research Vice President/General Counsel, are accounted for centrally. The enterprise and related initiatives; Vice President of Student Affairs, General Fund budget for the Office of • Facilitating the selection and Vice President of Advancement, Academic Affairs is approximately $6 appointment of faculty, and Vice President of Communications million (salaries only). An organization recommending the reappointment, and Marketing, Vice President and chart is appended to this document. promotion and tenure of faculty; Chief Diversity Officer, Director of Athletics, and Vice President/Chief Related activities in which the Provost • Actively participating in shared of Staff. plays a key leadership role include: governance with the Faculty Senate, University Council, the University The Provost oversees the deans of • Actively participating in shared governance with the Faculty of Akron chapter of AAUP (the sole each of the university’s 11 colleges and collective bargaining agent for all schools, including the School of Law, Senate, University Council, and the Council of Deans; full-time faculty members), and the and leads a multifunctional integrated Council of Deans; operation, ensuring closely linked • Engaging with advisory councils, operations across Academic Affairs, corporations, local and national • Assessing student success and Enrollment, Information Technology, foundations, donors, and learning outcomes; Research and Sponsored Programs, community organizations to expand • Collaborating with other institutions and University Libraries as well as and enhance academic offerings of higher education; and close coordination with the Divisions and units; of Student Affairs and Finance. There • Enhancing the University’s are approximately 1,800 current academic centers, institutes and faculty, contract professional and special programs.

5 Opportunities and Expectations for Leadership

Beyond the management of a complex academic enterprise, the next Provost of The University of Akron will be encouraged to place a particular emphasis on several strategic imperatives that will continue to strengthen the University and add value to its students, faculty, staff and community.

• Hold true to UA’s commitment Assume the lead role in refining and to the success of all students Sharpen The University of Akron’s implementing the Academic Affairs (undergraduate, graduate and enrollment strategy and practices. priorities in UA’s upcoming strategic all others); planning process. In light of challenging demographic • Emphasize UA’s academic strengths trends in the region and intensifying On Oct. 9, 2019, the UA Board of and establish a select number competition from other universities Trustees passed a resolution directing of prioritized goals linked to the in Ohio and from surrounding states, the President to launch an institution- financial model; the new Provost will take a lead role wide strategic plan for the next in ensuring sustainable enrollment • Include a holistic enrollment three to five years. This plan, titled levels (and associated revenues) strategy to encompass all types of “Affirming Our Promises,” will be through a focused and effective students throughout the University; presented to the Board in June 2020 enrollment management strategy. and implemented in fall 2020 and • Focus and expand University Working closely with Enrollment will establish an exciting path to the external engagement activities; Management leadership, the Provost future. The strategic plan will build will align Academic Affairs in support on insights gained through a recent • Be grounded in data and of an enrollment plan that balances three-year planning process, an predictive analytics; appropriate admission standards Administrative Activities Review and • Link to a time horizon with an enrollment yield that other initiatives in order to embrace commensurate with UA’s financial provides the tuition and housing a vision for the University, clarify realities; and revenues necessary to sustain the its mission, and focus attention on University’s budget. initiatives and priorities that will move • Adopt needed efficiencies and the University forward over the next reductions, particularly in the As emphasized in the President’s three to five years. short term. strategic plan charge, this enrollment strategy should focus on the holistic President Miller’s charge to the The Provost will be intricately success of students, with an emphasis University community highlighted key involved in the final stages of that on student development — not just expectations for this plan: process once hired, and will be student admission. Student retention responsible for collaborating with and graduation outcomes will be key • Reinforce and support UA’s mission the President in implementing the measures of success here, driven as an urban research university; strategy going forward. by initiatives that contribute to

6 student success. It will also further The Provost should thoughtfully assess its research productivity and stress opportunities to increase UA’s the infrastructure of staff, processes, reputation, and the next Provost enrollment in a highly competitive programs and technologies to ensure will champion efforts to enhance market, including strengthening that the organization continues to be the University’s research credentials partnerships with regional community characterized by exceptional talent with increases in grants/contracts colleges and K-12 school districts. and planning/financial/administrative and faculty/student scholarship. The “best practices.” Provost will formulate a clear vision that ensures progress in research Explore new markets for students prominence, including significant and revenues and expand academic Recruit and develop an exceptional undergraduate research activity, delivery models. decanal leadership team. integrated with UA’s traditional Beyond stabilizing — and ideally Of UA’s eleven schools and colleges, reputation for outstanding classroom growing — UA’s traditional tuition eight are currently led by interim teaching. The Provost must provide revenues, the Provost should empower deans or have anticipated vacancies. clear guidance and infrastructure the Office of Academic Affairs and An immediate and remarkable support as faculty increase the deans to be more aggressive in opportunity for the new Provost is to research productivity and create the University’s pursuit of alternative actively participate in the recruitment innovative teaching experiences sources of revenues, such as those and selection of a new cohort of that are intellectually vigorous and driven by online learning and by innovative academic leaders, and to technologically savvy. serving non-traditional learners. This build a cohesive and collaborative will require a more robust build-out culture of teamwork among them. Contribute to UA’s commitment to of both the technology infrastructure Preparation for conducting the deans’ diversity and inclusion. and teaching protocols. UA’s access searches will be underway in the near to the growing population of adult future, and the new Provost will lead The University of Akron has worked learners can be bolstered by building the search process and have significant effectively in recent years to partnerships with the local business input into the hiring decisions. significantly expand the diversity of community and repositioning its its students, faculty and staff, but academic programs with these the need for continued progress in customers (who today are developing Bolster UA’s research prominence and this area remains an important goal. their own in-house training resources). productivity. The new Provost will join the senior The University of Akron is the public leadership team in lending personal research university for Northern authority and passion to efforts Assess and optimize the academic underway to impact this profile, affairs structure and processes. Ohio, with total annual research expenditures of more than $32 including targeted recruiting, The new Provost will be expected to million and a portfolio of more than and by conveying a personal assess with “fresh eyes” the Office 300 issued, pending and provisional commitment to diversity, equity, of Academic Affairs. This includes patents. UA is home to best-in- and inclusion initiatives. evaluating the current structure to class programs, including the largest ensure that all academic units are polymer science and polymer optimally and consistently aligned engineering program in the world. and best positioned to achieve their individual and cross-disciplinary goals. UA is committed to further building

7 Professional Qualifications and Qualities

The Provost of The University of • demonstrated record of UA; and demonstrates appropriate Akron will be an engaged, inspiring distinguished research/scholarship responsiveness to the needs and leader who first and foremost and teaching concerns of students, faculty, demonstrates an active commitment contract professionals and staff of a to the University’s academic mission • tenurable at the rank of public doctoral research university and the students it serves. The Provost full professor with off-campus instruction and will embrace the faculty’s commitment • demonstrated commitment to research locations. to excellence in teaching, underscored diversity and inclusion by quality scholarship, and will The ideal candidate will bring understand the important connections • excellent verbal and written experience in administrative between the two. The Provost will communication skills leadership and a sense of integrity foster and embrace a vibrant and to the position. He or she will be an The Provost should possess the diverse community of faculty, experienced leader in higher education intellectual vision and energy students and staff, enhancing and have an established record of necessary to lead a complex, urban relationships with alumni, parents, teaching, research and service. The institution of higher education to new and friends of the University. successful candidate will also be an levels of success among learning and outstanding leader of people, programs The Provost must present the research communities. In addition, it is and budgets. following required qualifications: critical that the Provost has an ability to successfully motivate a university- The ideal Provost will present the • earned doctorate from an wide team at all levels; develops following preferred experiences, accredited institution an understanding of core values at qualifications and personal qualities:

8 • The ability to plan, direct and • A collaborative approach to team- • Knowledge and/or experience evaluate a complex operation, building and problem-solving that with faculty collective effectively managing people, time, prioritizes empathy, listening, and bargaining and comfort funds and other resources for the the recognition of individual’s working in that environment; accomplishment of long-term and lived experiences. short-term goals of the institution; • Familiarity with public systems of • Successful administrative and higher education and the ability to • The ability to establish and maintain management experience in higher represent the campus effectively in effective working relationships with education, including faculty that context; students, faculty, staff and the and staff personnel issues, the public to provide administrative management of complex budgets, • Experience with the development guidance within the Provost’s and the readiness to recruit, of distance education and other area of responsibility, and the develop, evaluate and support a modes of instruction, new curricula, ability to apply budgetary and high-performing leadership team of accountability and outcomes fiscal planning techniques within deans and directors; measurement, and the ability to financial constraints; lead institutional effectiveness • A demonstrated ability and system reviews; • Interpersonal skills including desire to advocate on issues of the ability to listen and respond importance to the faculty and to • Understanding of and successful effectively, eagerness to build the administration and serve as the experience with current challenges strong working relationships primary advocate for in higher education, including with colleagues in all areas of the academic quality; student access, enrollment University, and readiness to use an management, retention, curriculum open style of communication that development and revision, and builds trust and mutual respect; information technology;

9 Professional Qualifications and Qualities, continued

• Substantial experience with • Ability to build external communication skills, both in writing strategic planning, including a relationships, including partnerships and in speaking, to individuals as readiness to provide leadership with the corporate community well as to groups both large and for institutional planning, and that can lead to development of small; consultative but decisive the ability to articulate a shared new academic programs and to approach; and academic vision and engage others philanthropic contributions; in its implementation; • The personal qualities of courage, • Experience with both undergraduate integrity, trustworthiness, optimism, • An appreciation, understanding and and graduate programs and persistence, flexibility, openness respect for issues of diversity, equity professional degrees; to new ideas, accessibility to and inclusion and their relationship colleagues, a calm and reassuring to academic excellence; • Ability to articulate and advocate demeanor, and an intense for the institution’s mission both commitment to invest energy and • Decisiveness and the ability to lead within the campus community time to bring UA to the highest complex deliberations and bring and beyond; comfort with a high level of academic excellence. them to a timely conclusion; level of transparency; outstanding

10 Procedure for Candidacy

The executive search firm Witt/ document; 2) a curriculum vitae or The University of Akron is an equal Kieffer is assisting The University of resume; and 3) a list of at least five education and employment institution. Akron in the search for an Executive references with contact information. It is the policy of this institution that Vice President and Provost. Inquiries, there shall be no unlawful discrimination nominations and expressions of The position will remain open until against any individual in employment interest are invited and should be filled. For fullest consideration, or in its programs or activities at The sent to Witt/Kieffer consultants John expressions of interest materials University of Akron because of race, Thornburgh and Elizabeth Bohan at should be received by January 15, color, religion, sex, age, national or [email protected] . 2020. Nominations and expressions of ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender interest will be treated in confidence. identity, disability, genetic information, For formal consideration, individuals References will not be contacted military status or status as a veteran. should submit materials including without prior knowledge and The University is also committed to the the following: approval of candidates. The process principles of affirmative action and acts is confidential until the point where in accordance with state and federal laws. 1) a letter of interest addressing finalist candidates are invited to the leadership opportunities and campus. No names of individuals other qualifications articulated within this than those finalists will be released.

Search Committee Members: • Dr. Paul Levy • Dr. Nidaa Makki • William Cole Search Committee chair; Associate Professor of Curricular Assistant Vice President for Professor, Chair of the Department & Instructional Studies, LeBron Principal Gifts, Department of of Psychology, Buchtel College of James Family Foundation College Development; Chair of Contract Arts and Sciences of Education and co-director of the Professional Advisory Committee • Dr. Sheldon Wrice Urban STEM Center (CPAC) Associate Dean, Buchtel College of • Professor Willa Gibson • Michele Novachek Arts and Sciences School of Law Coordinator, Center for Gift & • Dr. Julie Zhao • Dr. Angela Hartsock Estate Planning, Department Assistant Dean, Associate Professor of Biology, of Development; Chair of Staff College of Engineering Wayne College Employee Advisory Committee (SEAC) • Dr. James Thomson • Dr. Nicole Hunka Professor of Finance, Chair of the Associate Professor of Instruction, • Mark Okocha Department of Finance, College of College of Applied Science President of Undergraduate Business Administration and Technology Student Government • Dr. Judith Juvancic-Heltzel • Dr. Linda Saliga • Dr. Pamela Schulze Associate Professor, Interim Chair, Professor of Mathematics, Professor of Child & Family School of Sport Science and Buchtel College of Arts and Development, Buchtel College of Wellness Education, College of Sciences; Chair of Faculty Senate Arts and Sciences; President of Akron Chapter of the American Health Professions • Ruth Nine-Duff Association of University Professors • Dr. Abraham Joy Senior Business Analyst, College of Associate Professor of Polymer Applied Science and Technology: Science, College of Polymer Chair of University Council Science and Polymer Engineering

11 Student Recreation and Wellness Center Arches

12 Jean Hower Taber Student Union

The University

13 150 Years of Innovation and Growth

Since its founding as Buchtel College the then small liberal arts college rubber for World War II. As the in 1870 by the Ohio Universalist offered theworld’s first courses in rubber industry in Akron declined in Convention, The University of rubber chemistry in 1909. The college the decades following the war, the Akron has been making and keeping then transferred its assets to the city University continued to evolve by its promises to its students, the and became the Municipal University becoming a state university in 1967 community and the American of Akron in 1913. A year later, the and establishing the world’s first Academy — meeting the educational College of Engineering was formed College of Polymer Science and and technological needs of the and pioneered one of the country’s Polymer Engineering in 1988. The region while advancing research and first cooperative education programs, University carried this momentum innovation in diverse disciplines. working with industrial giants such as into the 2000s, entering a new phase The University of Akron has been Goodyear, Firestone and Goodrich. of academic and physical expansion, responsive to the educational and Later, the U.S. government contracted in keeping with its tradition of bold, technological needs of the region. with the University to establish a responsive innovation and growth. Located in the city that became known rubber research laboratory to aid as the “Rubber Capital of the World,” in the development of synthetic

14 That tradition continues today. almost 20,000 students through 11 Portage and Wayne counties, colleges and schools, including satellite supporting 36,732 jobs, or one out With top-ranked and in-demand campuses in Lakewood, Medina, of every 47 jobs. During the same degree programs ranging from Millersburg and Orrville. period, former UA students currently associate through doctoral degrees employed in the regional workforce in engineering, arts and sciences, Moreover, the University continues generated $2.2 billion in added business, health care, law and to invigorate the region and prepare income for the region. The increased education, the University is students for a lifetime of success. In lifetime earnings for UA students are classified at the highest level as a fiscal year 2016-17, the University had projected at almost $1.263 million, a comprehensive, doctoral-degree- an estimated $2.7 billion economic return on investment that is almost granting institution accredited by the impact on its primary service area of five times the cost of earning a degree. Higher Learning Commission. It serves Summit, Cuyahoga, Stark, Medina,

15 Colleges and Academic Distinctions

The University of Akron has received to CounselingPsychology.org, state, national and global recognition and the Industrial/Organizational for the strength of its colleges and (I/O) Psychology program has for programs and the achievements of its decades been one of the country’s BUCHTEL COLLEGE OF faculty members and students. most respected and prolific ARTS AND SCIENCES: producers of scholarship and I/O The Buchtel College of Arts and professionals. Also, the National Sciences is the largest and oldest Museum of Psychology, the only 20+ degree-granting college at the one of its kind in the United schools and departments University, home to more than 20 States, opened at the University schools and departments and nine in June 2018. It is housed in 8 centers and institutes. The Drs. Nicholas and Dorothy centers and institutes • The Ray C. Bliss Institute of Cummings Center for the History Applied Politics, a bipartisan of Psychology, which was accepted 8 research and teaching institute, into the prestigious Smithsonian Emmy Awards is one of the nation’s premier Institution’s Affiliations program. centers of research and instruction • The School of Communication is on politics. Many former Bliss home to the highly rated student interns now hold leadership radio station, WZIP, and the 1st positions in government around student-run television station, in producing the most the United States. Z-TV, which has won eight, and I/O Psychology PhDs according to SIOP • The University has the No. 2 been nominated for more than 30, Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Emmy Awards. program in the U.S. according

16 • The School of Communication’s cybersecurity, the first four-year COLLEGE OF APPLIED Speech and Debate Team won its track of its kind among public SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: fourth consecutive Ohio Forensics universities in Ohio. It is also among Association State Championship the first cybersecurity degree tracks in 2019. in the country to offer courses in 1st applied cryptography, which are four-year cybersecurity track of • The University is home to the typically offered at the graduate its kind among public universities National Center for Choreography, level. Moreover, the University in Ohio one of only two such centers was selected by the Ohio Adjutant in the nation, providing world- General’s Department to join the class facilities and resources to Ohio Cyber Range, a collaborative 1st professional choreographers — as effort to train the cybersecurity Emergency Management and well as opportunities for students in workforce in public, private, Homeland Security program to be accredited in the country the University’s dance program to government, military and engage with artists who are shaping education constituencies. the future of dance. • UA has the only ABET-accredited The College of Applied Science B.S. in Surveying and Mapping and Technology offers a wide in Ohio. range of associate and bachelor’s degrees providing practical skills for • The college’s Emergency in-demand careers. Management and Homeland Security program was the first of • The college offers a bachelor’s its kind to be accredited in the degree in computer information country. A recent graduate of the systems with a focus on

17 College and Academic Distinctions, continued

program was hired as an emergency the best programs in the Midwest COLLEGE OF BUSINESS management specialist for by The Princeton Review (2019). ADMINISTRATION: the Pentagon. The College of Engineering produces Through connections with top some of the most sought-after, 1 businesses and executives, the job-ready engineering graduates in of only 188 business schools College of Business Administration the country. among thousands worldwide with dual AACSB accreditation (CBA) prepares students to become competent and responsible • The college is home to one of the professionals and leaders. oldest traditional co-op programs in the U.S., in which students gain • With the support of 280 donors valuable, practical work experience COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING: from the business community, with more than 2,000 the CBA recently opened its employers nationwide. 11,850-square-foot Anthony 2,000+ • The college’s J. Alexander Professional student design teams employers nationwide help Development Center, a one-stop build race cars, rockets, robots students gain experience through training spot for business students. and more, frequently ranking one of the oldest traditional co-op among the best in the nation and programs in the U.S. • The CBA is one of only 188 the world. UA’s design teams — business schools among including Formula Combustion, thousands worldwide to hold Formula Electric, Baja, Human- 1st dual accreditation (business and Powered Vehicle, Concrete Canoe, corrosion engineering and aerospace systems engineering accounting) from the AACSB. NASA Robotics Mining, and undergraduate degrees of their Akronauts Rocket teams — all kind to be established in the U.S. • The CBA has been ranked among placed in the top 10 in at least the top 50 undergraduate business one of their respective major schools at public universities by competitions in the 2018-19 season. Bloomberg Businessweek (2016). • UA’s bachelor’s degrees in corrosion • The college’s MBA program was engineering and aerospace named a “Tier One” program by systems engineering were the first CEO Magazine (2018) and one of

18 undergraduate degrees of their kind • UA is the only university in the COLLEGE OF HEALTH to be established in the U.S. world to offer graduate programs PROFESSIONS: in both polymer science and The College of Health Professions polymer engineering. cultivates an interprofessional 35+ perspective on health and wellness in • Polymer faculty research has clinical sites throughout the state fast-growing degrees, giving student resulted in more than 300 issued for the Nurse Anesthesia Program access to clinical experiences at and pending patents and helped renowned hospitals, clinics and social launch more than two dozen service organizations. The college regional startup businesses. houses seven different schools COLLEGE OF POLYMER focusing on a broad range of health- The LeBron James Family Foundation SCIENCE AND POLYMER related professions, such as physical College of Education, in collaboration ENGINEERING: health, lifestyle development and with K-12 partners, provides preservice social and psychological well-being. teachers with valuable experience through field and coursework in urban, 300+ • UA offers theonly bachelor’s suburban and rural teaching settings. issued and pending patents degree program in Ohio in food and environmental nutrition, for • After rigorous review, the college 24+ students interested in working of education was reaccredited and recognized for “national excellence” regional startup businesses in the food industry as product launched with the help of the developers, food safety experts by the Council for the Accreditation college’s research and regulators. of Educator Preparation in 2018.

• The Nurse Anesthesia Program is • Through the Urban STEM Center, one of Ohio’s largest, with more the H. Kenneth Barker Center than 35 clinical sites throughout for Economic Education, and the state. the Center for Literacy, the college equips teachers and The College of Polymer Science and community members to provide Polymer Engineering is one of the crucial STEM, economic and biggest and best-known research literacy education to students and academic programs in the world throughout Northeast Ohio. devoted to the study of polymers.

19 College and Academic Distinctions, continued

The School of Law — housed in the • Akron Law students serve THE LeBRON JAMES FAMILY recently renovated, debt-free, $21 more than 500 clients annually FOUNDATION COLLEGE OF million C. Blake McDowell Law through clinics. Also, students EDUCATION: Center — provides a top-ranked legal completed more than 5,600 pro education with flexible degree options. bono and community service hours “National in 2018-19. • Akron Law’s Intellectual Property Excellence” (IP), Trial Advocacy, and Part-Time The Williams Honors College recognition by the Council for Studies programs were ranked is an intellectual community of the Accreditation of Educator among the top 50 in the country by high-achieving students of broad Preparation in 2018 U.S. News & World Report (2020). academic interests and backgrounds. Each ranked highest, or tied for Its distinguished members enjoy highest, in Ohio. additional scholarships, first-priority class registration, one-on-one research SCHOOL OF LAW: • The school’s moot court and with faculty members, leadership client counseling teams training, interdisciplinary seminars, earned Akron Law a top-10 additional student groups, education Top 50 position in the American Bar abroad opportunities, and access to rankings for IP Law, Trial Advocacy, Association’s 2019 Competitions the residential and academic and Part-Time Studies; U.S. News Champion national ranking. Honors Complex. & World Report, 2020 Akron Law’s trial advocacy teams have won more than 20 national Top 10 and regional championships. position in ABA’s 2019 Competitions Champion ranking 20+ national and regional championships won by trial advocacy teams

20 Research

As one of Ohio’s most influential UA’s primary service area counties • Dr. Hazel Barton, professor public urban research universities, The (Summit, Cuyahoga, Stark, Medina, of biology and director of the University of Akron has continued Portage and Wayne). Additionally, Integrated Bioscience Program, to fuel the transformation of the UA ranked No. 60 among the top whose research on cave formations region’s base into a growing, diversified 100 universities worldwide granted has been featured in Sports and globally competitive leader in U.S. utility patents in 2017, and first Illustrated, Forbes, National polymers and advanced materials among public research universities Geographic Explorer, The by driving innovation in the fields of in Ohio, according to a 2018 report Smithsonian magazines, NPR, BBC manufacturing, medical devices and released by the National Academy of Radio, Animal Planet, the History technology, air filtration, advanced Inventors and the Intellectual Property Channel and more; energy, emerging green technologies Owners Association. UA was also and microelectronic optical devices. the highest-ranked Northern Ohio • Dr. Joseph Kennedy, distinguished university, and second only to The professor of polymer science and The nationally recognized University Ohio State University in the state, for chemistry and one of the most of Akron Research Foundation commercialization of technology, in prolific academic inventors in the has helped launch more than 60 the April 2017 Milken Institute Center country, who has garnered more startup companies, participates in for Jobs and Human Capital’s Concept than 120 patents for his inventions numerous joint ventures with major to Commercialization Report. over his 60-year career; and corporations and manages more than 300 U.S. patents and 500 patents This tremendous success is made • Dr. William Schneider IV, professor worldwide on behalf of the University. possible, in large part, by UA’s of civil engineering, who has been In fiscal year 2016-17, startup and accomplished researchers, including: the principal investigator on thirty spinoff companies resulting from transportation-related projects. UA research were responsible for UA has recognized him as one of $15.7 million in added income to the Top 5 most productive faculty members in Spring 2016.

21 Research, continued

Moreover, the University is an manufacturing, developing novel multidisciplinary approaches to help internationally recognized leader solutions to industry challenges and government and industry develop in the rapidly growing field of supporting research for national solutions for corrosion and materials biomimicry, with more than 30 laboratories and the University’s performance challenges; faculty members from four colleges College of Polymer Science and belonging to its Biomimicry Polymer Engineering; • The Conquer Chiari Research Research and Innovation Center. Center, a state-of-the-art Their interdisciplinary projects draw • The Timken Engineered Surface facility staffed with distinguished inspiration from organisms as diverse Laboratory, formed in partnership researchers working diligently to as ants, bacteria, birds, cacti, fish, flies, with The Timken Co., where advance the understanding of Chiari geckos, snakes and spiders to inform students and faculty work alongside malformation and improve the the research and development of industry experts in surface outcomes of patients; and engineering to solve complex adhesives, color-producing additives, • The Center for Tire Research, building construction techniques problems associated with friction, wear and corrosion; a National Science Foundation/ and more. University Cooperative Research Other research centers and labs at the • The National Center for Education Center and consortium of tire and University include: and Research on Corrosion and tire-related industry members, Materials Performance, originally performing market-driven research • The National Polymer Innovation funded by the U.S. Department in the areas of tire and tire-related Center, a facility at the leading of Defense and the only center materials, modeling, testing edge of polymer advanced of its kind in the U.S., providing and manufacturing.

22 Community Engagement

True to its legacy, The University of the Ohio IP Promise, a best-in-class earn an associate degree, or up to Akron involves numerous partners process, developed by Lt. Gov. two years of college credit toward in its progress, with more than Jon Husted, for cultivating the a bachelor’s degree, free of charge. 600 collaborations with business, licensing of intellectual property In 2019, it was one of 14 schools in industry, community, academia (IP) to strengthen Ohio’s economy, the state to receive the National and government. Most recently, the attract innovative researchers, and Blue Ribbon Award for academic University is a key collaborator with serve as a magnet for investors excellence. The University recently Summit County, the City of Akron and entrepreneurs. established similar Early College and the Greater Akron Chamber in programs at the Portage Lakes implementing the Elevate Greater The University also partners with local Career Center, Barberton City Akron coordinated economic public schools to cultivate the next Schools, and the R.G. Drage Career development strategy. generation of scholars and innovators. Technical Center. In fall 2018, the University was named The University continues to invest in a “sister university” to three Akron Through ZipAssist, UA’s central hub Northeast Ohio’s workforce through Public Schools (APS), pledging to of resources and support services, the partnerships with local companies provide career-themed content and University leverages its partnerships such as Tremco Roofing & Building support to students and teachers with the Salvation Army of Summit Maintenance and Schaeffler Group in the schools’ College and Career County, the United Way of Summit USA, providing discounted and fully Academies. One of those schools, County and Rubber City Arches funded pathways to associate and the Akron Early College High School LLC to provide textbooks, childcare bachelor’s degrees for employees and (AECHS), jointly established by assistance, pre-packaged meals, their dependents. the University’s College of Applied financial literacy coaching and more to Science and Technology and APS, students in need. Also, UA recently joined universities allows APS students, many of them from across the state in supporting first-generation college students, to

23 Community Engagement, continued

With the support of the John S. and UA courses via state-of-the-art, and to provide UA students the James L. Knight Foundation, the real-time video conferencing for opportunity to gain experience University hosts social media-driven students in the post-secondary in preservice teacher education, events and activities to encourage enrollment option program, as well mentorship, community service, students to become proud patrons as professional development to and evaluation and data analysis of Akron. The #ZipsInvade events area teachers; of the Foundation’s Wheels allow students to “invade” designated for Education and I Promise eateries, shops and other locations • The University Akron-Medina, Programs; and for free food, merchandise and a collaboration of the University experiences; and the #Zips100 list and Medina County business and • The University’s E.J. Thomas challenges students to complete community leaders to establish Performing Arts Hall, home to 100 traditional Akron-themed a workforce development center the Akron Symphony Orchestra activities on campus and in the and surrounding technology and serving the cultural needs of city before graduation. park, offering standard college Northeast Ohio with concerts courses, professional development of all types, theatre productions, Other examples of the University’s workshops and workforce training; ballets and lectures, as well as the community engagement include: annual Broadway in Akron Series, • Partnership with the LeBron coordinated and promoted since • The Medina Fiber Network, a James Family Foundation to 2015 by the University’s partner, collaboration of the University provide full scholarships for eligible the Playhouse Square Foundation, and the school districts of Medina, APS students enrolled in the an industry-leading entertainment Barberton and Springfield to deliver Foundation’s mentorship program; organization in Northeast Ohio.

24 Faculty

The University of Akron is home the presence of opioids in the While the University continues to to nearly 1,400 full- and part-time vicinity and take the appropriate innovate in polymers and biomedical faculty members, including world- precautions to protect themselves engineering, it is also leading the way class scientists and scholars whose from dangerous exposure. in the burgeoning field of biomimicry, academic impact reverberates unraveling the secrets of nature to far beyond the boundaries of • Dr. Hossein Tavana, associate solve problems and improve lives. the classroom. professor of biomedical engineering, is conducting National Institutes of • Dr. Ali Dhinojwala, H.A. • In keeping with the University’s Health-funded research that has Morton Professor of Polymer tradition of meeting the needs the potential to improve cancer Science and interim dean of the of the region, UA’s researchers treatment. He recently developed College of Polymer Science have taken on the state’s opioid and patented a method to make and Polymer Engineering; Dr. crisis. Dr. Abraham Joy, associate 3D cultures of clustered cancer Peter Niewiarowski, professor of professor of polymer science, cells that better mimic tumors in biology; and Dr. Todd Blackledge, is developing a polymer-based the body than 2D cultures used professor of biology, have developed fiber mat, with the potential to be in traditional methods (in which a adhesives inspired by spider silk embedded onto latex gloves, that thin layer of cells is treated on a and the microscopic hairs on can detect traces of opioid residue. flat, plastic dish), which may lead geckos’ footpads. This would allow first responders to more accurate drug testing and to overdose victims to detect more effective treatment.

25 Faculty, continued

• Dr. Henry Astley, assistant of economics, received her second Journal, who has been hailed by the professor of biology, designed a Fulbright Research Scholar award in New York Times as the “bard of camera-equipped robotic snake 2018 — a rare feat — and traveled Akron,” recently published his latest that has the potential to search to Italy to share her expertise in book, a poignant memoir about his for survivors under rubble in international trade. late father — “Furnishing Eternity: disaster situations. A Father, a Son, a Coffin, and a • Dr. Frank Ward, associate professor Measure of Life” — with critical • Dr. Emily Kennedy, director of of music and director of UA’s opera acclaim, setting an example for external relations at the Biomimicry program, is a acclaimed opera aspiring writers in the Research and Innovation Center performer — praised by Pulitzer Northeast Ohio Master of Fine (BRIC) and graduate of its doctoral Prize-winning poet W.D. Snodgrass Arts program, of which Giffels is program, is working with fellow and critics for his careful diction, the UA campus coordinator. alumnus Dr. Bor-Kai (Bill) Hsiung vocal agility and showmanship — on a football helmet lining, who has appeared throughout the Seventy-nine percent of the inspired by shock-absorbing country and in Europe in such major University’s full-time faculty members hedgehog quills, designed to productions as “The Barber of possess a terminal degree, and prevent concussions. Seville,” “The Marriage of Figaro,” students enjoy a student-faculty ratio “Candide” and “The Magic Flute.” of 18:1 — allowing them to receive UA’s faculty members continue to close and personal attention from receive national and international • David Giffels, associate professor of dedicated experts who are eager to recognition in other disciplines as English and former award-winning involve them in research, study abroad well. Dr. Sucharita Ghosh, professor columnist for the Akron Beacon opportunities, service projects

26 and other forms of practical, • Lauren Houser, assistant professor ACADEMIC IMPACT: real-world learning. of practice in the Department of Marketing, had computer With support from the University’s science and business majors 1,361 Center for Experiential Learning, full- and part-time teaching combine their programming and faculty members faculty members connect academic marketing expertise to solve client- disciplines and engage local based problems in her “Synergistic communities. Here are some Teams” class. 79% examples from spring 2018: full-time faculty members possess • Dr. Melanie G. McCoskey, an a terminal degree • Dr. Hunter King, assistant professor associate professor of accountancy of polymer science and core in the College of Business 18:1 member of BRIC, co-taught a Administration, has created an student-faculty ratio course with Kelly Siman, doctoral ongoing program for students in candidate in the Biomimicry accounting. These students get real- Fellowship program, in which world experience by preparing tax honors students developed returns for low-income individuals technological solutions to Lake in the Akron community. They Erie’s most pressing problems — prepare federal, state and city tax including harmful algal blooms — returns for approximately 1,000 and pitched those solutions to local individuals each year in collaboration industry experts. with United Way, which assists with e-filing of federal and state returns.

27 Student Life

Students at The University of Akron facilities totaling more than 5,200 • Join the Pride of Ohio Marching enjoy the full campus experience, combined square feet; Band or the AK-ROWDIES and moving seamlessly from the classroom cheer on championship-winning to the city and around the country • Socialize, study and relax at NCAA Division I sports teams; and globe. Coleman Common, on spacious campus greens or in the Jean • Work out, swim, shoot hoops or On campus, students: Hower Taber Student Union, climb a 53-foot rock wall at the where students can bowl, shoot highly ranked Student Recreation • Participate in more than 300 pool, choose from a range of and Wellness Center; and more. student organizations and clubs eateries — including Panda related to academics, careers, Express®, Chick-fil-A® and With thousands of businesses in the hobbies, faith, film, politics and Qdoba® — or watch blockbuster surrounding Akron metropolitan sports — ranging from a cappella films in theGardner Theatre; area, including Fortune 500 groups to legal societies and companies, students take advantage veterans associations; • Attend plays, concerts and shows at of internships, co-ops and part-time E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall employment to set themselves apart • Play on the University’s new and Guzzetta Hall; from the competition. In fact, UA esports teams — including the first led all Northeast Ohio universities varsity esports team at a public • Work on campus as student in the number of internship and job university in Northern Ohio, and assistants and volunteer for service placements at area businesses and one of the first 50 in the country events, such as Alternative Spring organizations in a 2018 survey of 101 — and compete in state-of-the-art Break and Make a Difference Day; organizations in the region.

28 Students extend their experience funded a scholarship enabling a Haitian FULL CAMPUS EXPERIENCE: beyond the city of Akron by student to attend the University. participating in study abroad programs that take them to Germany, Italy, Such global experiences are in keeping 300+ student organizations and clubs France, Spain, South Korea, Japan, with the diversity of the University’s India and other countries. For student population, represented by 46 example, since 2014, more than 90 states and 78 countries from around 1st students have traveled to Haiti to the world. The new International varsity esports team at a public help the students of Institution Center serves as a one-stop shop university in Northern Ohio Univers and the people of for international students and those Ouanaminthe. The initial trip gave interested in education abroad; and 46 institutes, programs and events such rise to a student organization, Zips for states and as the Rethinking Race events and Haiti. By roasting and selling Haitian 78 coffee through a partnering Akron the Black Male Summit (now in countries from around the coffee vendor, the student group its 11th year) promote multicultural understanding and excellence. world represented by the student population

29 Alumni

Graduates from The University of Eager to give back to the University, Akron become members of the many alumni join the Roo Crew, a Alumni Association, an ever-growing group of volunteers who help with family of more than 177,000 living recruitment, assist at Visit Days PROUD, LIFELONG ZIPS: alumni, who are making a difference and other events, speak to student throughout the United States and in organizations, help graduates find jobs 137 countries around the world. and mentor current students. 177,000+ members of the As proud, lifelong Zips, alumni remain Through the Legacy Scholarship, the Alumni Association are connected with one another and their Alumni Association provides financial making a difference alma mater through social events assistance to full-time undergraduate throughout the U.S. and in and reunions, the Akron E-Magazine students who are the children and 137 alumni newsletter and social media. grandchildren of, or under the legal countries around the world Alumni also enjoy ongoing career guardianship of, University alumni. services at the University, professional development and continuing Last winter, the Alumni Association education, discounted access to the opened an online store selling Student Recreation and Wellness unique UA apparel and merchandise, Center and other benefits. with the proceeds supporting student scholarships through the Making a Difference, Moving Forward campaign.

30 Athletics

A rallying point for community and After winning conference titles in institutional pride, Akron Athletics men’s soccer and basketball, along with fields a variety of men’s and women’s both indoor and outdoor track and varsity teams. The Akron Zips compete field, Akron Athletics was recognized RALLYING POINTS: in the NCAA Division I Football as having the best men’s athletics Bowl Subdivision and belong to the program in the MAC for the second Mid-American Conference (MAC). year in a row in 2016-17, winning the 30+ The co-ed rifle team competes in Reese Trophy — the third time Akron conference titles in the the Great America Rifle Conference Athletics has won the award. past nine years (GARC). In 2019-20, the University will add baseball and women’s lacrosse Zips student-athletes have excelled 15 teams. Chris Sabo, former Cincinnati in the classroom as well. Nine UA MAC tournament titles Reds’ third baseman, has been named athletics programs exceeded the captured by the men’s soccer head coach of the baseball team. national multi-year average in the team from 1998-2018 Academic Progress Rate report — The Zips have brought home more a measure of eligibility, retention and 9 than 30 conference titles in the past graduation of student-athletes — athletics programs nine years; and the men’s soccer for the 2016-17 academic year, with exceeding the national multi- team, which has captured 15 MAC women’s cross country and women’s year average in the Academic tournament titles from 1998-2018, tennis teams each recording a Progress Rate report won its first-ever NCAA College Cup perfect score. Championship in 2010. They were runner-up in 2018.

31 Governance

Board of Trustees • Selecting and appointing Michael J. Dowling; Thomas F. The University of Akron’s Board the President; Needles; and William A. Scala. Non- of Trustees is the governing body voting student Trustees are Andrew for the University, composed of 11 • Setting the operating budget; M. Adolph and Taylor Bennington. members – nine voting members • Approving personnel appointments; Anthony J. Alexander (retired and two nonvoting student members president and CEO of FirstEnergy – all of whom are appointed by the • Granting all degrees awarded Corp.) and Akron Public Schools governor of Ohio, with the advice and by the University, including Superintendent David James consent of the Ohio Senate. Trustees honorary degrees; are advisory Trustees. More are appointed to a nine-year term information is available online at • Establishing tuition and fee rates; of office, with the exception of the uakron.edu/bot/members.dot. student Trustees, who are appointed • Approving contracts; and to a two-year term. In addition, • Approving all rules, regulations, the Board has selected two highly UA’s Leadership Team curriculum changes, new programs regarded and successful members The President works closely with a and degrees at the University. from the region to serve as non-voting team of leaders, including the: advisory Board members. All Board Trustees of the 2019-20 Board are members participate in all meetings • Executive Vice President/Provost Joseph M. Gingo, chair; Olivia P. of the Board, including executive Demas, vice chair; Dr. Alfred V. • Vice President of Development sessions. The Board has been charged Ciraldo, vice chair; Lewis W. Adkins and Executive Director of The by the Ohio Legislature with: Jr.; Roland H. Bauer; Cindy Crotty; University of Akron Foundation

32 • Vice President and constituencies and report to the General Counsel UC. The UC and the eight Standing Shared Governance Committees represent all primary • Vice President/Chief The University Council (UC) is the campus constituency groups: Communications and representative and legislative body faculty, staff, contract professionals, Marketing Officer of the University that deliberates students, deans, department chairs and makes recommendations to the • Vice President/Chief of Staff and administrators. President on matters such as strategic • Vice President for Inclusion and planning, University policy and other As delegated by the Board, the Equity and Title IX Coordinator substantive matters that pertain to Faculty Senate is the other legislative the strategic direction and operations body of the University and is • Vice President for Student Affairs of the University. University Council empowered to formulate suitable rules, requirements and procedures for the • Vice President of Finance and has three components: UC itself, admission, government, management Administration and Chief the UC Executive Committee and and control of the students, courses Financial Officer the eight UC Standing Committees. The Executive Committee is elected of study, granting of degrees and by the UC from among its members certificates, and other internal affairs and is responsible for agenda-setting of the institution necessary to meet and coordination. The Standing the objectives of the University in Committees are elected or selected accordance with the established by the University community policies of the Board.

33 Governance, continued

The Executive Committee of the • Ensures that the business of Student Government Faculty Senate: permanent and ad hoc committees The Undergraduate Student is completed in a timely fashion; Government and Graduate Student • Appoints members to appropriate Government represent the collective • Brings matters to the Senate or Faculty Senate committees; voice and interest of undergraduate assigns matters to committees; • Prepares the agenda for and graduate students, respectively, each meeting; • Considers any questions and through communication with UA complaints regarding elections of administration, faculty and the • Serves as an advisory committee members to the Senate and makes broader community. The Student Bar to the Senior Vice President and recommendations concerning these Association represents students in the Provost on governance matters complaints to the Senate; and School of Law. affecting the academic mission of the University; • Certifies the validity of all Senate elections.

Budget

The University’s annual General Fund budget is approximately $340 million. Beyond the General Fund, the University receives about $34 million annually in donations and about $35 million annually in externally funded research and other sponsored programs.

34 The University of Akron Organizational Chart

State of Ohio

Board of Trustees

General Counsel President Internal Audit

Interim EVP Provost

University Council Faculty Senate

VP VP Communications VP Inclusion VP Student VP/CFO Director of Athletics Chief Administrative Chief of Staff VP/Advancement & Marketing & Equity Affairs Officer

35 The University of Akron Office of Academic Affairs Organizational Chart

State of Ohio

Board of Trustees

General Counsel President

University Council Faculty Senate

Interim EVP Provost

Colleges and Satellites Centers and Programs Administrative Units

College of Applied Science & Technology Academic Achievement programs Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences Biomimicry Research and Innovation Center (BRIC) Admissions College of Business Administration Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program (COF) Financial Aid LeBron James Family Foundation College of Education Confucius Institute Human Resources College of Engineering Cummings Center for the History of Psychology Institutional Research College of Health Professions English Language Institute Labor Management Graduate School Experiential Learning Center (EXL) Registrar The Drs. Gary B. and Pamela S. Williams Honors College Office of Research Administration School of Law Institute for Teaching and Learning (ITL) Student Affairs College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering International Center Office of Technology Transfer Wayne College Military Science and Leadership University Libraries Military Services Center UA Lakewood National Center for Education and Research on Corrosion Holmes County and Materials Performance (NCERCAMP) Medina County University Center

36 Mission Statement

The University of Akron, a publicly instruction from associate through The University pursues excellence assisted metropolitan institution, doctoral levels; pursues a vigorous in undergraduate education and strives to develop enlightened agenda of research in the arts, sciences distinction in selected areas of members of society. It offers and professions; and provides service graduate instruction, inquiry and comprehensive programs of to the community. creative activity.

37 City of Akron

With a population of about 200,000, The vigorous and growing cultural and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Akron is the fifth-largest city in Ohio. environment of the city and region The nearby Cuyahoga Valley National It is located just south of Cleveland, includes the Akron Art Museum, the Park and Summit County Metro and is only a short drive from Ballet Theatre of Ohio, the Cleveland Parks offer extensive opportunities for Columbus, Detroit and Pittsburgh, Museum of Art, Playhouse Square, outdoor activities and sports, as well and a short flight from Washington the Cleveland Orchestra and the as ski resorts and miles of nature trails D.C., Chicago and New York. Akron Symphony, Blossom Music and wilderness habitats. Center, the Pro Football Hall of Fame,

38 Memorial Clock Tower

The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution – uakron.edu/eeo © 2019 by The University of Akron / P-1019-34709