Ohio Northern to Initiate Keiser Distinguished Lectureship

Beginning in 2007, Ohio Northern University students will hear from renowned lecturers in the life sciences, thanks to the Keiser Distinguished Lectureship in Life Sciences Fund.

The new fund will bring nationally prominent life sciences scholars to ONU's campus each year to lecture and interact with students.

The Keiser Distinguished Lectureship in Life Sciences is named in honor of Professor Terry D. Keiser, professor of biological sciences, chair of the Department of Biological and Allied Health Sciences and chair of the Division of Mathematics and Natural Sciences.

"I am excited about the possibilities this lectureship opens to our students. My hope is that it will inspire future leaders in the sciences," said Keiser. "I am delighted and honored that friends and alumni have chosen to provide funding for this program. It is humbling to have my name attached to such an innovative and important project."

A 1964 graduate of Ohio Northern, Keiser joined the university's faculty in 1967, rising from instructor to professor of biological sciences and chair of the department. Keiser presently serves as chair of the University Council and as a special trustee on the Ohio Northern Board of Trustees. He was instrumental in establishing the Ohio Northern University Nature Center in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, which operates under his supervision. He is active in professional organizations and community groups, including serving as chair of the EMT board, president of the Ada Village Council and as a board member for the Ada Community Improvement Corporation.

The lectureship fund, with an endowment of more than $1 million, has been funded by gifts from alumni, friends and colleagues. Among the major gifts is a donation by ONU alumni Robert and DeOnne Gronlund, Lewisburg, Pa., who were classmates of Keiser.

The Keiser Distinguished Lectureship in Life Sciences is the first program of its kind for Ohio Northern.

Published: Fri, 12/15/2006 - 1:00am