Athens County • May 22, 2025
Good morning, Athens County. Ohio University's commitment to excellence is shining brightly this week as junior Trevor Gillam becomes the first recipient of the WOUB-specific 73 West State Street Award. The production department standout, who helped transition the station to a new control system, joins the impressive lineup of Bobcat achievements that includes the university's 14th consecutive year earning gold status as a military-friendly school. These accolades highlight OU's dual dedication to nurturing student talent and supporting military-connected students.
Beyond campus, a powerful economic renaissance is taking root in Appalachian Ohio. The Athens Ohio Investment Alliance, founded by local entrepreneurial heavyweights, has partnered with TechGROWTH Ohio to create a formidable funding pipeline for promising startups. With $1 billion in economic impact already generated and nearly 1,000 jobs created, this homegrown investment ecosystem is transforming our region's future one innovative venture at a time.
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🎓 WOUB student Trevor Gillam wins prestigious scholarship award. The Ohio University junior is one of three recipients of the 73 West State Street Award, established by WOUB alumnus Bill Brand. Gillam, who works in WOUB's production department, is the first recipient of the WOUB-specific version of the scholarship. He played a key role in transitioning the station to a new production control system and now mentors new directors. The award recognizes students' potential, university affinity, and campus involvement in the Scripps College of Communication.
🎖️ Ohio University earns gold status as military-friendly school for 14th year. The institution achieved the prestigious designation in the Tier 1 Research Institution category for 2025-2026, recognizing its exceptional support for veterans and military-connected students. Ohio University was also named a Military Spouse Friendly School, demonstrating its commitment to the entire military community. The university offers comprehensive services including academic support networks, military transition seminars, priority registration, and a dedicated Veterans Lounge. In 2024, OHIO launched a Student Veteran and Military Incentive Scholarship, making education more accessible for those serving or transitioning to civilian life.
💼 Local investors fuel economic growth in rural Ohio. The Athens Ohio Investment Alliance (AOIA), established in 2023 by successful entrepreneurs like Neill Lane of Stirling Ultracold, is partnering with TechGROWTH Ohio to identify and fund promising local startups. This collaboration creates a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in Appalachian Ohio, with TechGROWTH having generated $1 billion in economic impact and created nearly 1,000 jobs. Both organizations are currently evaluating co-investment opportunities in digital pathology and marketing software companies. With over 40 members contributing expertise and capital, AOIA aims to attract outside investment to sustain regional economic development.
Ripe Investment Near Campus: Priced at $119,000, this fixer-upper rental property is conveniently located near the Engineering Research Building, Medical school, and Athletic fields, making it a promising investment as development expands in the area.
Modern mobile community living dream: For just $35,900, this Athens, Ohio manufactured home in Spreading Oaks Village offers open-concept living, private storage, community amenities, and proximity to Ohio University, natural attractions, and urban centers.
Spacious Ohio gem near university: This renovated 4-bedroom home, listed at $334,900, features a crisp kitchen with quartz countertops, three updated bathrooms, and a fully fenced yard, all within minutes of Ohio University on Athens' Southside.I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
-Philippians 4:13
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