CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Ohio University Chillicothe honored nearly 120 area graduates at a Graduation Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, April 30, capping a year in which 165 students completed degrees through the university’s Chillicothe campus.
Keynote speaker Jamie Brown, a 2022 Ohio University graduate and Sojourners Care Network workforce development specialist, encouraged graduates to take pride in their Appalachian roots and recognize their success as a message of possibility for others across Southeast Ohio.
Two students offered reflections on their journeys. Phillip Howard, a retiree, disabled combat veteran, and first-generation college student, earned an Associate of Applied Science in human services technology in 2025 and is completing a Bachelor of Social Work this spring. Howard completed an internship with Ross County Children’s Services through the University Partnership Program and said he pursued his education to set an example for his children.
Jared Kaiser, a Chillicothe resident and Westfall High School graduate, is graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing after transitioning from a human biology major. He plans to begin his nursing career before pursuing a master’s degree.
Seventy graduates participated in nursing ceremonies earlier in the day — 19 Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates and 51 Associate of Applied Science in Nursing graduates took part in a pinning ceremony.
Twenty students were named Outstanding Graduates after being nominated by faculty for academic achievement, campus involvement, and community service. This year’s honorees are Erika Hellman, Desiree Willman, Mikaela Wiley, Kadance Fraley, Marissa Huff, Hannah Henthorn, Jessica Ebert, Kylie Fink, Cheyanne Kifer, Maelynn Quigley, Hayden Henthorn, Owen Kline, Natalie Nelson, Trace Smith, Josie Courts, Chrysten Kell, Raegan Dick, Kylie George, Sierra Saxon, and Aubrey Wood.
Alumni awards were presented to Amy Beeler, superintendent of the Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities and Pioneer Center, and Jessica Short, director of the Dayton Regional STEM Center and chief of operations for DO STEM.
“These graduates represent the best of what higher education can accomplish when determination is matched by community support,” said Interim Dean Michael Lafreniere.