The cornerstone of the CCG is creating a shared graduate and adult learner program that will grow revenue for Coalition members by expanding the reach of Otterbein’s graduate programs and by continuing to add new programs as more members join the CCG. Now exceptional Otterbein programs, like the Master’s of Athletic Training or the graduate Nursing programs, will be offered on the East and West Coast at Antioch’s established locations. Alternatively, Antioch University graduate programs like Clinical Mental Health Counseling or Non-profit Management will expand offerings in central Ohio.
Antioch is the right partner for this work. Antioch University has been one of the nation’s leaders in serving graduate students and working adults since the 1960s. It has the infrastructure and expertise to provide engaging and personalized educational opportunities to working adults through online, low residency, and face-to-face programs. This flexibility is what adult and working professionals expect. That infrastructure also allows the CCG to engage with local industry and service organizations to provide professional and workforce development opportunities serving a broad spectrum of staff and clients, including seminars, stackable certificates, online adult degree completion, and advanced degrees.
What does Otterbein get in return for investing in the Coalition for the Common Good and transferring most of our graduate programs to Antioch University? First, Otterbein receives annual payments from Antioch that reimburse the net revenue that was generated by the transferred programs, so Otterbein doesn’t lose anything. Then, as programs expand and enrollment grows, the Coalition pays Otterbein an additional share of the revenue that all graduate and adult learner programs earn, after all program expenses are covered. Over time, this model generates significantly more revenue than Otterbein was able to generate by offering those programs on our own. The Coalition has also created a Support Services Organization that will allow us to negotiate better terms with vendors, increase the bench strength of our staff, and create back-office efficiencies that will generate savings for both universities and future members.
The CCG also is a way for Otterbein to distinguish itself from other liberal arts-focused schools. Students still get to work with engaged faculty focused on teaching excellence in small classes that provide real opportunities for student-faculty engagement, while also having the benefits of a large system. Students have expressed excitement about opportunities for accelerated degree programs, access to more job and internship opportunities through an expanded alumni network, and the opportunity to take courses from other member institutions. In market research, prospective undergraduate students overwhelmingly indicated that benefits like these would make them more interested in attending a school that is part of a national system of higher education institutions.
The Graduate Early Admission Pathways (GEAPs) allow Otterbein undergraduates to take up to nine credits of graduate coursework — at no additional cost — while still an undergraduate, and those credits count towards both the graduate degree and the undergraduate degree. This reduces the time to graduation and the cost of a degree for students seeking professional master’s degrees. In addition to the 15 approved GEAPs, we are developing new pathways with a focus on Nursing, Education, and Couples and Family Therapy. Otterbein undergraduates also now have access to new study abroad opportunities in partnership with Antioch. The first opportunity is a joint study abroad trip to the Galapagos Islands in May 2025. Similar opportunities will expand with every new member that joins the Coalition. We are developing study away programs that let Otterbein undergraduates have immersive experiences on other Antioch campuses. These opportunities enrich the undergraduate experience and help provide stronger outcomes for our students after graduation.
Co-founding the Coalition for the Common Good lets Otterbein focus on what we do best — teaching undergraduates. Otterbein will further benefit by building a distinctive market identity, taking our graduate programs national, better serving our students, and expanding the reach of our mission with a partner that clearly shares our values of service to others and education for a more just society.
The Otterbein Esports team completed the fall portion of its inaugural season with many successes. Playing five titles — Rainbow 6, Overwatch 2, Valorant, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (SSBU) and Call of Duty — the Cardinals posted a combined 25-14 overall record and earned three playoff berths. The Valorant team capped its postseason with a National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) divisional championship on Nov. 20.
BSU President Jennatta Mensah said the event is more than just an event to the community of color on campus. “This annual gathering provides a space where Black excellence is honored and uplifted, ensuring that the contributions of students of color are acknowledged and celebrated. From the elegance of the evening to the meaningful connections fostered, the event creates an atmosphere where attendees feel valued, appreciated, and inspired,” she said.
This year, an awards ceremony was added to the program, honoring outstanding individuals who have made a significant impact on the campus community. “By recognizing students, faculty, and alumni who have demonstrated leadership, service, and academic excellence, the event strengthens its mission of empowerment and appreciation,” Mensah said.
