Ohio Wesleyan alumna Megan (Sanders) Ellis (‘05) took on the new role as administrative director for the Woltemade Center in response to the continued growth of the economics department.
Over 100 applications were received for the position. Alice Simon, faculty director of the Woltemade Center, said that Ellis’ application “rose to the top.”
“She had the best set of credentials and most impressive impact on the committee,” Simon said.
The creation of an administrative director position had been discussed for a few years. The alumni advisory board for the Woltemade Center, along with the economics department and OWU administration representation agreed that because the Woltemade Center has grown a considerable amount since beginning in 1985 it was time to take the Center to “the next level” for the enhancement of our students.
“Discussions centered on maintaining a liberal arts approach to economics, business, entrepreneurship and leadership while increasing the Center’s visibility locally and nationally,” Simon said. “Working together with business leaders, alumni, the OWU administration and faculty, it is hoped that this new position will allow expansion of resources and programs that all students at OWU can benefit from.”.
Simon said that the work necessary was more than any of the faculty could realistically be responsible for.
The position calls for an “overarching organizer” who can assist faculty in executing new programs. Ellis said she will strive to “bring events to campus such as alumni presentations and increase the awareness of these events.”
Ellis also stressed her desire to engage other departments in Woltemade events and putting “Theory into Practice” ideas into action. Ellis also said that she will strive to raise awareness of the Woltemade Center for prospective students, working to increase recruitment. Finally, she will help students find internships and become integrated into careers after graduation.
The administrative director position is a two-year pilot position. The position is currently being funded by the Woltemade Center’s alumni advisory board.
“The continuation of the position is dependent upon endowing the position as well as endowing student programs and other opportunities,” Simon said. “It is in our hopes that Ellis’ success will yield programs, students and funds across the campus.”
Ellis received a degree in economics management with a management concentration and a minor in psychology. Shortly after, she worked for a running company that is currently known as M3S Sports in Columbus.
During her time as a student, Ellis worked at the front desk in the economics department, tutored in the department and participated in the Philadelphia Center program. After graduating, Ellis said she “stayed in touch with the economics department whenever possible.”
She also explained that this position is bringing all of her “experiences together with a whole new set of challenges.”
Sophomore Economics Fellow student Kellie Garvin is excited for this position.
“It will be perfect to help make new connections and by students having connections, it will make the department that much better,” Garvin said.