As an educator, it is not surprising that I would easily embrace a new and exciting organization poised to transform the greater Lima area by promoting the 3 Rs – redevelopment, revitalization, and recognition.
Those are exactly the three key words that form the foundation of a new non-profit partnership known as Greater Lima Region, Inc. Its strategic focus on redeveloping and revitalizing the region intends for our area to be recognized for job growth, business location and expansion, and enhanced quality of life for having the most livable communities in the Midwest. These are big goals for a brighter future, and Ohio Northern University is eager to play a role in their attainment.
ONU became a founding member of Greater Lima Region, Inc. because we believe that education is the ladder of opportunity, fuels the engine of economic development, and is a catalyst for cultural enrichment, an essential quality of life component.
ONU graduates in all fields of study, and especially in engineering and health care, represent a source of talent for companies and organizations throughout the region. Since joining Greater Lima Region, Inc. ONU has pilot tested an Engineering Executive Lunch Program where area business professionals meet in small, personal settings with our engineering students, ensuring that they become aware of local opportunities and the benefits of working and living in our region. Thus far, seven companies have participated and early feedback is very positive.
Similarly, our students studying pharmacy, nursing, forensic science, medical laboratory science, and public health gain excellent clinical experience in area hospitals and health care facilities. Many of them are hired upon graduation, providing a win for both the employer and the new employee.
We are committed to continue to be a source of expertise and assistance when it comes to economic development. For example, nearly a decade ago Northern played a role in the formation of the Ohio Energy & Advanced Manufacturing Center (OEAMC), a local, public – private partnership dedicated to assisting manufacturing companies compete in the emerging advanced manufacturing arena. OEAMC continues to spark innovation by fostering new processes and products, and the University remains significantly involved in its mission as Dr. John-David Yoder, Dean of the College of Engineering, serves on its Board.
Another economic development initiative involved three ONU mechanical engineering students who worked with Kewpee staff to replace a half-century-old hamburger-making machine. The students and their faculty mentor helped to design a new state-of-the-art hamburger making system. We are all the beneficiaries of that successful partnership!
Universities are powerful partners when it comes to economic development, whether it is in energy, advanced manufacturing, or hamburgers, and we hope to do our part as a member of Greater Lima Region, Inc. to continue to assist businesses in our region to grow, expand, and prosper.
Greater Lima Region, Inc. is also committed to improving quality of life opportunities for communities in our region. By fostering more housing, retail, restaurants, entertainment, and cultural events, it will pursue the ambitious goal of having the most livable communities in the Midwest. ONU is ready to build on past cultural enrichment partnership successes like the Holiday Spectacular and the Lima Symphony Orchestra Patriotic Pops Concert to assist in identifying new opportunities to improve the quality of life throughout our region.
In short, ONU is honored to be part of the Greater Lima Region, Inc. and intends to be an active participant in its work.
On behalf of the Greater Lima Region, Inc. Board, I invite you to learn more about us at greaterlimainc.com, to support our commitment to the 3 Rs, and to become a partner in transforming our future.
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