WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Rob Portman (R-OH) applauded The Ohio State University’s (OSU) announcement that the John Glenn School of Public Affairs would become the John Glenn College of Public Affairs. Brown and Portman serve as members of the Board of Advisors to the Glenn School.

“As a mentor and my good friend, John Glenn has set a high standard for leadership, service, and public engagement. It’s only fitting that the John Glenn School of Public Affairs – which has distinguished itself through the strength of its academic programs – become a college,” Brown said. “Its transition to the John Glenn College of Public Affairs will enhance the ability of Ohio State to develop the next generation of leaders in public service.”

“The Glenn School is a treasure for Ohio State, and I am really pleased that it will be given college status to better position itself to promote civic engagement and public service,” said Portman. “As a former teacher of four courses at the Glenn School, I know first-hand that the faculty, staff, and students are the best and the brightest from around the country. It’s an honor to continue to serve on the Board of Advisors, and I congratulate my friend, John Glenn, on this announcement.” 

In November 2014, Brown and Portman wrote a letter to Dr. Joseph E. Steinmetz – Executive Vice President and Provost of OSU, in support of the proposal. The full text of the letter can be found below:

November 18, 2014

 

Dr. Joseph E. Steinmetz

Executive Vice President and Provost

203 Bricker Hall

190 North Oval Mall

Columbus, Ohio 43210-1358

Dear Dr. Steinmetz:

As members of the Board of Advisors to the Glenn School, we write in support of the proposal for the John Glenn School of Public Affairs to obtain college status.

Since its inception, the Glenn School has developed a national reputation for its prominent faculty, impressive students, and alumni who are united around a common commitment to public service. In the classroom, professors teach students about public policy, public management, public sector economies, and decision support systems. Students then apply this knowledge beyond the classroom. From the Washington Academic Internship Program to the Civic Leadership Council, Glenn students have shown a dedication to making a difference in the greater community.

College status will enhance the Glenn School’s reputation and its ability to attract well-regarded faculty and talented students. Furthermore, college status will enable the Glenn School and the University as a whole to continue to promote civic engagement and public service.

Sincerely,

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