Ohio Northern University students returning to campus from winter break received a warm welcome to the new home of the Center for Student Success—an expansive, beautifully-renovated space on the second floor of Heterick Memorial Library.
The thoughtfully-reimagined space houses under one roof important support services, including the Polar Career Center, Testing Center, Writing Center, Accessibility Services, and Global Initiatives. Additionally, the library’s second floor now aesthetically matches the first floor and provides expanded areas for students to collaborate on group projects and study together or individually.
ONU held a dedication ceremony for the Center for Student Success on Friday, February 7, 2025, honoring the many donors who generously supported the project, including lead donors Judith Mifsud, BSEd ’70, and Oscar Mifsud, BSBA ’70.
“This space transformation reflects the high value we place on the work we do and our commitment to student success,” said President Melissa J. Baumann, Ph.D. “Here, students will find opportunities to foster their academic potential, access learning opportunities on campus and across the globe, and broaden their futures.”
The Center for Student Success encompasses a variety of services and resources.
The Writing Center helps students to become stronger writers and communicators. Accessibility Services, the Tutoring Center, and the Testing Center, provide tailored support to students facing academic challenges or disabilities, helping them to stay on track and reach their full potential.
The Office of Global Initiatives broadens horizons and builds bridges through study abroad and travel opportunities, and cultivates a welcoming campus where international students can thrive.
The Polar Career Center helps students take the next steps for their future, offering career fairs, resume and cover letter development, assistance with finding internships, applying to graduate schools, embarking on job interviews, and finding that first job after graduation. The Polar Career Center is a lifetime benefit for ONU alumni.
“Every day our staff members empower students to overcome challenges, they instill confidence and develop essential skills, and they open doors to new possibilities,” said Lynda Nyce, Ph.D., associate provost of academic affairs and director of student success. “We are thrilled that these support services are now centralized in a convenient, easy-to-navigate location, ensuring every student can access the help they need.”
In 2016, ONU opened the Oscar J. and Judith D. Mifsud Collaborative Learning Center, which transformed the first floor of Heterick Memorial Library into a hub of student activity, learning, and collaboration. The transformation of the second floor of the library into the Center for Student Success was also made possible by the visionary support of the Mifsuds.
Oscar graduated from ONU in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Now retired, he was the former CEO of The Mifsud Group LLC (a private investment and management company) and the former President and CEO, of SMR Aerospace, where he was an owner.
He served on the ONU Board of Trustees for 21 years, including as chairman. He received ONU’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2009, the James F. Dicke College of Business Administration’s Outstanding Service Award in 2012, and the college’s Pinnacle Award in 2013. Oscar was awarded an honorary Doctor of Business Administration degree from ONU in 2013.
Judy graduated from ONU in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. Now retired, she taught in Ohio for more than 20 years. Judy established a nonprofit organization, PJs from Grandma, which provided new pajamas to agencies and organizations that serve children and families in need for 15 years. She volunteers in a variety of community organizations.
At ONU, Judy was instrumental in the formation of a giving society for young alumni. Because of her dedication, support, and accomplishments, she received Ohio Northern’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2009. Judy was awarded an honorary Doctor of Education degree from ONU in 2013.
“We are deeply grateful for the Mifsuds who envisioned and supported this amazing space that will foster the highest forms of learning and shape futures for years to come,” said Shannon Spencer, vice president for university advancement.