Serving Country, Supporting Students

Otterbein Video Production Manager Got His Start as a Radioman in the U.S. Navy

Many students know his face, even though it’s often behind a video camera — but the Communication Department students know him best. That’s because Stephen Rossman, Otterbein’s video production manager and campus videographer, has been taking a personal interest in the professional success of Otterbein Communication majors since 1999.

Rossman began his television career in 1986. He held production and engineering positions at TV stations in Erie, PA, and Columbus, OH. At Otterbein, he assists the Communication faculty with their technical needs and mentors students in their chosen career path. He also provides internal and external visual media for the Office of Marketing and Communications, video support for the Theater and Dance program, and facilitates livestream events on campus.

What some people don’t know about Rossman is that, before starting his video career, he served in the U.S. Navy.

After deciding college wasn’t the right path for him, he joined the Navy, serving from 1980-1985. What drew him to military service was a desire to see more of the world and experience life beyond his hometown.

Rossman served as a radioman aboard the USS Mount Whitney out of Norfolk, VA, and traveled to many different parts of the globe, where he participated in a variety of military campaigns and operations.

Rossman says he carried the discipline, punctuality, and ability to multitask from his time in the Navy into his work.

At Otterbein, the thing he enjoys most is “ensuring the students are getting the best education and experiences possible.”

For him, Veterans Day is a simple but important reminder to recognize those who have served the country — and the sacrifices that often come with that service, including long periods away from family. Despite that, he still appreciates the opportunity he had to see the world.

When people recognize his service, he feels one thing above all else: appreciation. But Rossman hopes people go beyond thanking veterans for their service on Veterans Day and consider supporting veteran programs throughout the year.

And while his years in uniform are behind him, the meaning of service remains unchanged. Today, service means giving back to others, a commitment he continues to live through his work and dedication to the Otterbein community and its students.