Compilation: Conversations Highlighting a Local Perspective

Compilation: Conversations Highlighting a Local Perspective

The Conversations podcast is revisiting a compilation of a few of our favorite conversations that bring a local perspective from the past year. Each guest brings a unique viewpoint, but together they tell a larger story about what makes northwest Ohio so special. They remind us that strong communities are built when institutions, leaders and people invest in one another. It's a belief that shapes so much of the work we do at Owens. The lineup: * Vince DiPofi, SSOE CEO (episode originally aired March 12, 2026) * Neil MacKinnon, Rossford Mayor (episode originally aired February 12, 2026) * Dr. Brian Treece, President and CEO, Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation (episode originally aired November 13, 2025) * Dr. Veronica Motley, Retired Superintendent, Sylvania Schools (episode originally aired April 9, 2026) * Jami Williamson, Owens Professor, Therapeutic Services (episode originally aired October 9, 2025)

Five Years at Owens: President Dione D. Somerville with Kristian Brown

Five years ago, Dr. Dione D. Somerville became president of Owens Community College. Since then, Owens has continued building on its long history of serving students, employers and communities across Northwest Ohio. In this special episode of the award-winning Conversations podcast, 13abc Anchor Kristian Brown turns the tables, interviewing Dr. Somerville about the lessons she has learned during her first five years as president, the evolving role of community colleges and what lies ahead for Owens. From workforce development and healthcare education to student success and community partnerships, this conversation reflects on the progress of the past five years - and the opportunities ahead. Episode Guest: Dr. Dione D. Somerville, President, Owens Community College Host: Kristian Brown, Anchor, 13abc

Owens Community College 60th Anniversary Celebration Podcast

Owens Community College has celebrated 60 years of service to our students and our region during the 2025-26 academic year. As we wrap up our celebrations, we have brought together voices from across our institution and our community to share the Owens story. Listen for a reflection on the values that have guided Owens and continue to shape our future. Guests in this episode: * Randy Gardner, former Chancellor, State of Ohio * Mary Beth Hammond, Vice Chair, Owens Community College Board of Trustees * Dr. Denise Smith, Owens Community College Provost and Vice President, Academic Affairs * Jeff Ganues, an Owens grad who is CFO and Vice President, Business Affairs * Dr. Steve Culbertson, Owens Community College Professor, Humanities * Jen Hazel, Owens Community College Professor, English * Jim Welling, an Owens grad who is the former Owens Express men’s basketball coach and Hall of Famer * Jennifer Strauss, an Owens grad who is Executive Director and Vice President, Nationwide Children’s Hospital – Toledo

Sylvania Schools Superintendent Dr. Veronica Motley

Dr. Veronica Motley is originally from northeast Ohio. She attended the University of Akron, where she earned her bachelor’s, master’s and later her doctorate in educational administration. She has served students and their families for 35-plus years. Dr. Motley has served in four culturally and economically diverse school districts, which has allowed her to hone her skills and expertise. She has also continued to educate and inspire future educational administrators by serving as an adjunct instructor at the University of Akron, Kent State University and the University of the Bahamas, and by earning the prestigious title of Professional Fellow at Ashland University. She has also presented for multiple local, state and national organizations. Dr. Motley has stated on many occasions that she feels it is a privilege to serve as Superintendent of Sylvania Schools. She feels honored to lead a district that truly believes in "Excellence Through Opportunity as we continue the legacy of investing in our number one asset…our children." As a seasoned educator, Veronica has devoted her career to public education and the sense of pride and tradition it creates for the community and future generations. Dr. Motley enjoys spending time with her partner, Johnny, and her furbaby, Cricket the Cavapoo.

SSOE Group Chief Executive Officer Vince DiPofi, PE

Vince DiPofi, PE, is the Chief Executive Officer of SSOE Group, a nationally ranked architecture and engineering firm headquartered in Toledo, Ohio. ENR ranks SSOE as one of the Top 5 firms in the country, in the design of Manufacturing, Automotive and Semiconductor facilities. In 2025, Fortune Magazine named SSOE as one of the Top 25 professional service organizations in the country. With over 40 years of professional experience, Vince has built a career defined by strategic vision, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to innovation. Under his leadership, SSOE has launched a technology-driven strategic plan that positions the firm as a thought leader in artificial intelligence and design automation. Vince is widely respected for his collaborative leadership style and his focus on developing the next generation of leaders. He’s passionate about helping organizations navigate change, strengthen their culture, and connect their success to the communities they serve. Whether he’s talking about strategy, innovation or the power of great teams, Vince brings a grounded, real-world perspective shaped by decades of hands-on leadership experience. A licensed Professional Engineer in Ohio and Michigan, Vince holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toledo, where he was named a Distinguished Alumni in 2019. He was honored as the Toledo Society of Professional Engineers’ Engineer of the Year in 2022 and received the Ernst & Young Regional Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2024. Beyond his corporate achievements, Vince is deeply engaged in community service. As a survivor, he has been a passionate advocate for the American Heart Association, including serving as chair of the 2026 Toledo Heart Walk campaign. He is also a board member of the United Way of Greater Toledo, and ConnecToledo economic development organization.