20 years of dedication

Courtesy of Stone Laboratory Stone Laboratory is Ohio's Lake Erie lab and the oldest freshwater biological field station in the country.

Stone Laboratory thrives with help from its friends

Studying biology on a remote island in the middle of Lake Erie can have a profound impact on students. That's why, for the past 20 years, a dedicated group of volunteers has banded together to provide the muscle and fund-raising necessary to help keep Stone Laboratory thriving, and to make sure future generations can share similar experiences.

Stone Laboratory is Ohio's Lake Erie lab and the oldest freshwater biological field station in the country. This academic year marks the 20th anniversary of the formation of the Friends of Stone Laboratory (FOSL), established in 1981 to upgrade the laboratory's facilities and equipment, raise money for scholarships, bring in more outstanding faculty members, make it easier for non-OSU students to attend the lab and, in general, improve the quality of the research, education and outreach programs conducted at the site, said Jeffrey M. Reutter, director of Stone Laboratory and the Ohio Sea Grant Program.

"The support of the Friends of Stone Lab has been invaluable -- and their enthusiasm is very contagious," Reutter said. "Stone Lab and Ohio State are very fortunate to have a group of dedicated volunteers with a vision and commitment to improving the laboratory, science education in Ohio and the quality of the Lake Erie ecosystem."

About 500 members strong, FOSL annually donates thousands of dollars and hours to the laboratory and Lake Erie. Members have established six endowments and four general fund-raising accounts valued at more than $600,000, and will establish two new research endowments before the end of the year, Reutter said. Over the past 10 years, they have awarded more than 400 scholarships valued at about $115,000 to students at colleges and universities across Ohio to attend Stone Laboratory. Over the past seven years, they have honored and awarded scholarships to 43 high school students for outstanding science projects at the Ohio Academy of Science's State Science Day (which was hosted by Ohio State's Columbus campus on May 11 this year).

FOSL is working to maintain that momentum. Current FOSL fund-raising goals include completing a new research endowment, raising $500,000 for scholarships and equipment, and generating $2.3 million to complete the interior renovation of Cooke Castle to turn the National Historic Landmark built in 1864 into an education and conference center for the laboratory, said Mike Heniken, a two-time president of FOSL.

"Running an educational/research program in a relatively distant location is always an economic challenge. In a time of budget restructuring, the support of FOSL is an essential part of continuing the unique experience that is Stone Laboratory," Heniken said.

FOSL started primarily as a group of alumni, faculty and staff who saw a need, and found a small way to try and fill it, Heniken said. At the same time, FOSL gives members an opportunity to maintain contact with Stone Laboratory and provide for its future. Over time, FOSL has come to encompass a wider group of people who have an interest in Lake Erie and the environment in general.

No job is too big or too dirty for FOSL. Members regularly plant new trees and shrubs on the island to attract wildlife, and conduct an annual spring cleanup around Lake Erie. This year's cleanup, held April 20-21, also involved another Ohio State group: 15 OSU Master Gardeners, working on a specialization in Ohio weeds, brought their own tools, supplies and plenty of energy. These volunteers spread out over Gibraltar Island to remove invasive weeds, prune and/or doctor existing plantings, and even create some new flowerbeds. A couple of years ago, FOSL volunteers hauled the entire 5,000-volume library -- by boat -- from South Bass Island to its new home on the third floor of Stone Lab on Gibraltar Island.

"Before that, if students wanted a book, they had to row over in a boat and get it," Reutter said.

Located on the 6.5-acre Gibraltar Island at Put-in-Bay, the laboratory was established in 1895. The University Board of Trustees in 1925 officially named the facility the Franz Theodore Stone Laboratory, in honor of the father of Julius Stone. Stone, an Ohio State trustee, had donated Gibraltar Island to the University.

The laboratory is also the shared research facility of the 12 Ohio colleges and universities in the Great Lakes Aquatic Ecosystem Research Consortium. The lab's unique location on the boundary of Lake Erie's Western and Central Basins offers researchers an ideal setting for the study of pollution issues, shoreline erosion, the introduction and impact of exotic species, and population studies of native species, Reutter said. Research areas also include underwater welding and the economic impact of the beaches, boating and fishing activities along Lake Erie.

While research is conducted year-round, Stone Lab has a variety of teaching programs offered seasonally. Annually, Reutter said, approximately 5,500 students (fifth grade and older) participate in educational tours and aquatic ecology workshops and overnight field trips in Stone Lab's spring and fall programs. During the summer, nine one-week courses are offered for middle- and high-school teachers to make teaching science exciting for teachers and students alike. Five one-week introductory courses are offered for college freshmen and sophomores at Stone Lab, but are also available to superior high-school students. Eight, five-week courses are offered for graduate students and upper level undergrads.

"We've seen a lot of kids go from an average student to a great student after taking a Stone Laboratory summer course," Reutter said.

Karen Jennings, the first president of FOSL and a two-time president, said two summers at Stone Lab shaped her life.Ê

"Living and learning on a 6.5-acre island for 24 hours a day, seven days a week is an intense experience on many levels," Jennings said. "By the end of the courses, students have learned a tremendous amount by living and breathing their subjects. They know each other and their professors both as people and professionals. And they have developed many life-long friendships and a collegial network that stretches not only forward into time but backward through Stone Lab's history."

Reutter said the excellent work going on at Stone Laboratory is gaining recognition. Stone Lab and Sea Grant recently received the highest ranking possible when evaluated by the National Sea Grant College Program. The evaluators called the many outreach partnerships at the laboratory -- many of them formed by FOSL -- "the best in the country," Reutter said. As president-elect of the National Association of Marine Laboratories, he said members are already asking him for advice on how to create a support arm similar to FOSL.

For details about FOSL membership, contact the Stone Laboratory office at 292-8949 or visit the Web at www.sg.ohio-state.edu.

2002 Distinguished Staff Awards

The University's highest honor for nonteaching employees, the Distinguished Staff Award, was presented to 13 individuals this month. Recipients were selected because of their contributions to the quality of life for all people they encounter at work, including University colleagues, students and members of the community. A special, posthumous award was made in honor of Jean Hansford, who passed away on Jan. 10.

President Brit Kirwan, Executive Vice President and Provost Edward J. Ray and Associate Vice President for Human Resources Larry Lewellen presented the recipients with a $1,500 honorarium, a $700 addition to their base salaries, and a crystal trophy at a luncheon on June 26.

The Office of Human Resources sponsors the annual recognition program.

Douglas P. Brownfield director of technology, Nursing

Doug Brownfield has taken technology to the next level for the College of Nursing. Since becoming director of technology in 1992, Brownfield has been responsible for a number of technological advances. Due to his efforts, the college has gained a 30-station student computer lab, a 20-station electronic classroom and equipment for electronic presentations in all classrooms. He rewired an old building to accommodate new technology; he designed and implemented Intranet systems for faculty, staff and students; and organized educational sessions for faculty and staff. Brownfield has been a real go-getter when it comes to obtaining funding for new technology and has played a major role in the rapid development of the college's online course offerings. He also developed a strategic plan for technology growth and a comprehensive replacement plan to guide planned investing. "I have come to admire and respect not only Doug's immense technical skills, but also his insight and vision for what is always on the horizon," wrote a nominator.

Janis R. Browning scheduling officer, Recreational Sports

Janis Browning is the staff member with the time, tact and diplomacy to process and schedule the thousands of requests each year for space in Larkins Hall, Peppe Aquatic Center, the three Jesse Owens Recreation Centers, Fred Beekman Park and the Coffey Road fields. Nominators praised Browning for her enthusiasm, her prompt and cheerful service, and her careful attention to details. Browning is dedicated to the University at large, as well, having served on the University Staff Advisory Committee and as a volunteer for Welcome Week, Michigan Week and commencement. Browning also is an advocate for diversity, serving on a task force in her department, maintaining a diversity bulletin board in Larkins and taking the time to attend the diversity series lectures. "The professionalism and customer service orientation Janis brings to work each day has enabled her to make a most positive impact on many lives during her 23 years of service," wrote a nominator.

Terri L. Cory administrative coordinator, Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics

"She strongly believes that each of us -- as a member of a work force, organization, community, church, family -- has an obligation to actively work for the betterment of that group, and to help wherever we are able to lend our talents," wrote a nominator of Terri Cory. Cory's talents lie in her ability to put people at ease, to take on difficult special assignments, to find creative solutions and to share the wisdom of 27 years of service to the University. Cory has proven herself invaluable to the Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics, currently applying her skills to coordinating a prestigious interdisciplinary program that requires cooperation not only from Ohio State departments, centers and colleges, but other universities, state agencies and related organizations. "Her strong organizational and administrative abilities and all of her professional accomplishments are complemented always by her sincerity, concern for others and her pleasant, agreeable nature," wrote a nominator.

William L. Cox senior animal health technician, Veterinary Hospital

Bill Cox is essential to the smooth running of the section of Food Animal Medicine, Surgery and Theriogenology, according to nominators. As one wrote, "I have heard clients say that they do not care what clinician, resident or student is attending to their animal because as long as Bill is there, they know everything will be okay." As surgery room technician, Cox handles everything from organizing the surgery rooms to performing procedures to training students. He also often serves as a research technician, teaches in the Food Animal Techniques course, assists in practice labs, supervises students and animal care personnel, and organizes and attends continuing education short courses. His personality is what sets him apart, though. Nominators wrote in praise of his friendly demeanor, sense of humor, compassion, uncanny ability to remember names and unflagging work ethic. "We have an internationally recognized program which is due, in no small part, to Bill's role in the section," wrote a nominator.

Ned L. Cullom program manager for special events, Human Resources

Ned Cullom's "contagious enthusiasm," as one nominator put it, is the force guiding the Community Charitable Drive, Staff Appreciation Week, the Staff Arts and Crafts Exhibit, Family Day at Wyandot Lake, Faculty and Staff Service Recognition Program, Operation Feed, the Distinguished Diversity Enhancement Awards, the University Community Blood Drive, and yes, even the Distinguished Staff Awards. As special events manager for the Office of Human Resources, Cullom personally shepherds through each and every detail that goes into myriad programs designed to enhance the quality of life for University employees, as well as for the surrounding community. His ability to plan and coordinate (not to mention cajole and encourage) gains results -- be it in donations, attendance or morale. "Ned is an absolute professional who is dedicated to working diligently to make Ohio State a better place to work," wrote a nominator. "He truly cares for the faculty and staff here."

Natala K. Hart director, Student Financial Aid

Tally Hart's efforts at Ohio State over the past five years inspired one nominator to write that "her vision, commitment, and leadership style have transformed the culture in the Office of Student Financial Aid and its relationships with students and their families." Hart has earned a reputation nationally as a student advocate, especially for minority students and those with socio-economic challenges. Through her efforts, long lines and lengthy phone calls have been replaced with fast and accurate service, a transition to Web-based services has gone smoothly, and students have been empowered to take greater responsibility for their financial aid. Her efforts on behalf of students, collectively and individually, are boundless: "Tally is an absolute whiz at cutting through the Gordian knots of red tape that sometimes entrap our students," wrote one nominator. "I am always confident that when I turn a financial issue over to her office, that it will be resolved efficiently and with kindness."

David R. Hoover senior director of University marketing communications, University Relations

David Hoover is high energy personified, described by co-workers and colleagues as creative, imaginative, dedicated and hard-working. Hoover's accomplishments over the past 20 years include working on developing a campus-wide branding initiative to improve Ohio State's academic reputation, helping to create a University Relations new media unit, initiating the use of banners to welcome visitors to campus, and developing a marketing campaign to tout Ohio State as Ohio's No. 1 public university. "His dedication, enthusiasm, delicate touch and political savvy have meant the difference between progress and inertia in Ohio State's promotional and marketing efforts," wrote a nominator. Hoover is known for his ability to navigate with humor, grace and style the many constituencies he interacts with on behalf of the University. He is "always willing to help, attentive to detail, concerned with preserving and protecting the University image, while fully participating in the daily life of Ohio State É his legacy will be around for a very long time," wrote a nominator.

Virginia A. Knowlton program manager, Agricultural Technical Institute

Ginny Knowlton has served as a pioneer at the Agricultural Technical Institute since arriving at the campus in 1975. She has initiated positions within recruitment and admissions, financial aid and new student assessment and orientation. Knowlton has willingly taken on extra duties and responsibilities to ensure that student services at ATI, in spite of and because of the campus' small size, are first-rate. Under her leadership, ATI has successfully received five consecutive federal grants to support the program she directs, Program Excel, totaling more than $5 million. Knowlton has coordinated ATI's Silver Anniversary celebration, initiated and guided the introduction of e-mail accounts for ATI faculty, staff and students, and created a comprehensive database to monitor and track student services. "Ginny has worked for more than 26 years caring for students and helping them to succeed academically, many of them at-risk students who may not have graduated were it not for services sought after and provided by Ginny and her staff," wrote a nominator.

Darrell W. Kyle custodial worker II, Physical Facilities

"'Grace' is not a word I would ordinarily associate with someone performing custodial functions but Darrell truly brings grace to his job," wrote a nominator of Darrell Kyle. Kyle is credited by nominators for his thoughtful and thorough care of the corridors and offices of the Moritz College of Law's Drinko Hall, efforts which are greatly missed when he's away on vacation or sick leave. "To say we depend upon Darrell is an understatement," wrote a nominator. "When he is asked to do something, we know it will be done, it will be done right, and it will be done on time. This extends to last minute and special requests." Kyle polishes windows, vacuums offices, cleans up common space -- whatever it takes to make the building sparkle not only for faculty, staff and students, but for the college's many visitors, as well. Kyle's work ethic is exceeded only by his pleasant personality and professional attitude.

Rose Marie Martin staff nurse III, James Cancer Hospital

Rose Marie Martin is a patient advocate, praised by nominators for caring for the whole patient -- their emotional, physical, spiritual and educational needs -- in a professional manner. Martin, who specializes in bone marrow transplant nursing, is active as a leader in local and state professional organizations, functions as a charge nurse and nurse preceptor to mentor her peers, and, as a member of the Professional Practice Committee, helps to formulate nursing policies and procedures for patient care throughout the Medical Center. Martin's patience, calm demeanor and strong work ethic are an inspiration to her co-workers, and a source of comfort and healing to her patients. "Rose Marie is energetic and efficient. She enhances the quality of life for the staff on our unit by sharing her expertise and consistently practicing excellence," wrote a nominator. "The needs of the patients and staff come before her own needs. The level of excellence she displays daily never varies."

Shirley R. Royer office staff coordinator, Physics

To members of the Department of Physics, Shirley Royer is indispensable. "We just can't imagine our undergraduate operation chugging along without her, let alone her ability to make us fly!" wrote a nominator. Royer rolls up her sleeves every year and handles the myriad details of two annual social events for hundreds of faculty, staff and students; she manages the department's teaching evaluation program; she helped pioneer and continues to help run the annual physics open house; she is an expert in data base management; and she is an invaluable resource to students with scheduling questions. Nominators praised Royer's intelligence, organizational skills and warm personality. "Not surprisingly, Shirley is also the official Ômother hen' for over 150 undergraduate physics majors," wrote one nominator. "Not only does she know all the students' names, but she also takes a genuine interest in who we are and what we do," wrote a student who was looking forward to Royer wishing her and her classmates well on graduation day.

Edward J. Schlechty administrative associate II, Mathematics

"In a word, Ed is a gem," wrote a nominator of Ed Schlechty. Schlechty has a calm, easy-going manner which belies the flurry of his accomplishments. In 16 years of service to the Department of Mathematics (which was preceded by 10 years of service to the Registrar's Office), Schlechty has been responsible at different points in his career for coordinating 170 TAs who were instructing 30,000 students; streamlining and organizing the department's financial accounts; introducing accounting mechanisms for various department projects; successfully navigating the University's transition to ARMS; and serving as room and office availability expert. When circumstances called for it, Schlechty has worked numerous overtime hours and is always willing to lend a helping hand to a colleague. "His experience and well-known and well-deserved reputation for common sense and good judgment make him something of a sage in the department," wrote a nominator. "He is always willing to go the extra mile."

In Memoriam
	Jean D. Hansford senior campus planner, University Architect

For almost 35 years, Jean Hansford dedicated himself to the responsibility of planning Ohio State's campus environment. Hansford passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 10, leaving behind a legacy of green spaces and pedestrian-friendly quads. He played a guiding role in projects too numerous to mention, influencing areas ranging from the Oval to the entire west campus to the Medical Center. "Over the years his leadership in campus planning nurtured the value of 'place' and its importance to people on campus, as well as residential neighborhoods off campus," wrote a nominator. Hansford was praised by nominators for his extraordinary dedication to the University, for his fresh ideas, his wit and his wisdom. "Jean deserves this award not because of his tremendous dedication and devotion," wrote a colleague, "but because, through his insight and his tireless efforts to increase the quality and beauty of the campus environment, he has truly impacted the lives of those who have been, who are, or who will be associated with this University."

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