Became effective April 1

ATHENS — Ohio University’s vice provost for Regional Higher Education and Partnerships, Dr. Lewatis McNeal, has announced that Dr. Deborah R. Marinski assumed the role of dean of campus and community relations of Ohio University Southern beginning April 1. 

Marinski has held the role of interim dean since June 1, 2022, when Dr. Nicole Pennington announced her intention to step down as dean of OHIO Southern and executive dean for Regional Higher Education to return to the nursing faculty. Marinski remains an associate professor of history for OUS.

“I am truly honored and thrilled to accept the position of dean of campus and community relations at the Southern Campus. The opportunity to serve the vibrant community of students, faculty, staff and the greater tri-state region fills me with a deep sense of excitement and purpose,” said Marinski. “My vision as dean aligns with the campus’s commitment to accessible, quality, student-centered education. I believe in fostering a climate of academic excellence, where every student has the tools and support they need to realize their full potential. Also, I will prioritize the growth and empowerment of our exceptional faculty and staff to create an environment where innovation, teaching, and collaboration can thrive.”

Since joining OHIO Southern in 2014 as an assistant professor and program coordinator, Marinski has held various roles within the University, including faculty senator, chair of the Ohio University Southern Faculty Council and speaker for the Ohio University Southern Campus Graduate Recognition Ceremony. 

She has garnered several awards for her contributions, including the Outstanding Faculty Member in Teaching award (2019-2020), Outstanding Faculty Member in Service award (2013-2014) and Outstanding Faculty Member in Research award (2011-2012), all for OHIO Southern.

“Dr. Marinski has done a great job during her time as interim Dean for the southern campus. At the conclusion of the interview process, it was clear that Dr. Marinski was in the best position to lead the campus in a permanent capacity,” McNeal said. “I’m excited about the how the Southern Campus will move forward under the leadership of Dean Marinski.”

Prior to her tenure at OHIO, Marinski served as a visiting assistant professor at the University of Toledo and gained experience working with Lourdes College in Sylvania and the Lucas County Maumee Valley Historical Society.

Marinski holds a Ph.D. in American history from the University of Toledo, along with a master’s degree and bachelor’s degree in history from the same institution. During her time as interim dean, she has significantly advanced community partnerships and utilized campus resources to benefit Lawrence County and beyond. She advocates strongly for human rights and ensures that all campus resources are open and accessible.

“I will continue to immerse myself in the local community, where I can draw upon its unique strengths and build partnerships that extend the university’s positive impact. My goals include enhancing educational pathways that align with regional needs, ensuring a welcoming, seamless, and enjoyable campus experience for our students, and broadening our community outreach initiatives,” Marinski said. “The future of Ohio University Southern is bright, and I am confident that together we will shape a dynamic and transformative path forward.”