NEWS RELEASE

Contact:
Denise Durenberger, denise.durenberger@findlay.edu
Josh Eilola, joshua.eilola@findlay.edu
419-434-4520

FINDLAY, Ohio — University of Findlay and Bluffton University have received their first collaborative grant since announcing their proposed merger in March. The Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) awarded the Improving Science Pedagogy Grant, funded by the W.M. Keck Foundation in the amount of $2,000 for their shared work.

The goal of the grant is to revitalize science education in the classroom while bringing together faculty from Bluffton University’s Department of Health Sciences, Natural Science, and Mathematics and the College of Sciences at University of Findlay.

“This grant represents what both institutions perceive as a beginning step to foster informal interactions among faculty members,” said Christine Denecker, Ph.D., associate vice president for learning and innovation.

The grant will allow faculty to gain insights into each other’s academic programs, departmental objectives, and the specific goals of individual courses. Through a collaborative effort, faculty members hope to create a supportive framework to exchange best practices in STEM teaching methods, case study approaches, laboratory exercises, and more.

“We anticipate that the successes of this project will set a precedent for other academic programs and colleges across both institutions,” said Hillary Hartman, University of Findlay grants manager. “The results could serve as preliminary data for subsequent external grant applications.”

Members from each university also plan to disseminate their experience through this project at national conferences, helping to educate and assist other higher-learning institutions as they navigate through changing times in education.

The two institutions announced a proposed merger in March, but the process of receiving required regulatory approvals is estimated to take 12-15 months or more.

To keep up to date with news related to the proposed merger, visit www.findlayblufftonfuture.com.

About University of Findlay: Established in 1882 through a partnership between the Churches of God, General Conference and the city of Findlay, University of Findlay is known for excellence in its science, health professions, animal science, and equestrian studies programs, but also for cultivating the next generation of business leaders, educators, and innovative thinkers through a dedication to experiential learning in and outside of the classroom. With a mission to equip students for meaningful lives and productive careers, University of Findlay offers more than 88 bachelor's degrees, 11 master's degrees, and five doctorate-level degree programs. The University has an average annual enrollment of 3,500 students, which includes nearly 400 international students. The 403-acre campus includes an Animal Science and Western Equestrian Riding Complex, English Equestrian Riding Farm, All Hazards Training Center, and a 55-acre wetland to offer hands-on learning opportunities for all students. A proud member of the NCAA Division II Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC), University of Findlay students compete as the Oilers on 22 men’s and women’s teams.