> MU's new SMART-FIT Lab will train students in smart manufacturing skills and machine optimization
> Central State University scientist helps advance citrus greening solution to field trials
> Belmont College, GRIT Ohio celebrate summer program success
> Eastern Ohio Aspire thrives under new leadership, celebrates more than 40 graduates
> 2025 Ohio State Fair wrap-up
The Ohio State Fair is a quintessential experience – the perfect combination of Midwestern rides, games, unusual treats, education, competition, and agriculture. The Ohio Department of Higher Education has grown our presence at the State Fair over the past three years to include a full-scale virtual reality tour of Ohio’s campuses, supercomputer activities for kids, and a prize wheel for Ohio’s College Advantage 529 savings program.
We were in the wonderful, air-conditioned Lausche Building, a great venue for kids and families featuring 4-H, The Ohio State University, COSI science museum, games for kids, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, and so much more – all part of the “Youth Exploration Space.” Families who stopped to see us enjoyed spinning a prize wheel, photos with campus mascots, and a rotation of colleges that offered everything from aerospace to robotics demonstrations.
A recap of this year’s State Fair is found in this issue, along with several other stories about how our campuses are preparing students for the jobs of today and tomorrow. Learn more about Miami University’s smart manufacturing lab, how a Central State University scientist is helping the citrus industry, and an innovative partnership between Belmont College and the GRIT (Growing Rural Independence Together) Project.
It’s “Back to School” this month in ConnectED, where we celebrate Ohio as "The Heart of Education."
Miami unveils smart manufacturing lab
MU's new SMART-FIT Lab will train students in smart manufacturing skills and machine optimization
Central State University scientist helps advance citrus greening solution to field trials
Breakthrough citrus greening treatment developed with Central State scientist advances to Phase 2 field trials
Belmont College, GRIT Ohio celebrate summer program success
Local students gain hands-on experience and industry certifications through GRIT Ohio and Belmont College partnership
leadership, celebrates
The Jefferson County Educational Service Center adult education program continues its mission with renewed support and a new identity
4
A recap of the fast-paced fun in the Youth Exploration Space 8 11 13 15
The SMART-FIT Lab will train students in smart manufacturing skills and machine optimization
By Zoë Hill, Miami University Communications and Marketing
Miami University's Smart Factory Innovation and Technology (SMART-FIT) Lab is up and running after a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by members of the Miami community.
The lab, which aims to provide a handson smart manufacturing curriculum to students in the College of Engineering and Computing, was conceptualized by Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering faculty Fazeel Khan, Ph.D., Giancarlo Corti, Ph.D., Kumar Singh, Ph.D., Clayton Cooper, Ph.D., and Karl Reiff, M.Ed., in collaboration with Miami alumnus Scott Summerville '79, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc., and his team of MEAU engineers.
Miami University President Gregory Crawford unveiled the SMART-FIT Lab to the university community as part of an initiative to secure career pathways for students and create a talent pipeline linking directly to local and national industry.
“There are three things that people keep telling us from the industry that they need, and that's talent, talent, and talent,” President Crawford said. “That's what we're going to be doing here, and really training the workforce for this great state and for this wonderful country.”
The SMART-FIT Lab is modular, consisting of molding, assembly, and packaging elements. While students observe and learn on each segment of the lab, they can also learn how to arrange, change, and enhance the modules. The lab, as it stands now, is intentionally suboptimal to industry standards to serve as “an opportunity to optimize the equipment and the processes,” according to Summerville.
Beena Sukumaran, Ph.D., the Dinesh and ILA Paliwal Dean of the College of Engineering and Computing, emphasized the college’s goal of providing students with “an industry-relevant education in state-of-the-art facilities,” and cited strong collaborations as key to achieving this.
“These facilities will also host upskilling workshops for working professionals and serve as a hub for research and industry partnerships, ultimately enhancing workforce training,” Sukumaran said. “We extend our sincere thanks to the State of Ohio for its RAPIDS funding, along with Miami University and MEAU, for making this lab a reality.”
The ribbon cutting was also attended by Rep. Warren Davidson of Ohio’s 8th congressional district, who showed his support and praise for Miami’s move to enhance the smart manufacturing industry.
“When you look at creating the future, I love what (Miami is) doing here,” Davidson said. “Increasingly, you see that the machines make the machines, but not without people, and that skills are necessary to be able to keep up with it.”
Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and through the coursework for the Smart Manufacturing degree. The lab supports the integration of the new curriculum, but it has so many more applications for the Miami community, according to Singh, chair of the Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering department.
“It offers a hands-on learning environment for students, a research hub for faculty, a testing ground for industry exploring automation and process innovation, and a resource for professionals looking to upskill and stay ahead in today’s rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape,” Singh said.
The lab was paid for in part by grant funding from the Ohio Department of Higher Education’s Regionally Aligned Priorities in Delivering Skills (RAPIDS) and Super RAPIDS programs, which supports collegiate initiatives to strengthen the workforce pipeline.
Engineering, said she is excited to see the future of the manufacturing program at Miami and the students who graduate into the workforce benefiting from the SMARTFIT Lab.
“In addition to the technical skills that working with industry-grade equipment provides, a lab like this teaches you really critical problem-solving skills for the workforce,” Freeman said. “Fundamental engineering classes are great for laying a technical foundation, but real-world problems do not have an answer key in the back of a book.”
“This lab is one of a kind, which will result in one-of-a-kind opportunities to solve exciting and challenging problems,” Freeman added.
President Crawford said he hopes to see the lab used in part as a maker space, bringing together students from across campus to create and learn.
“This lab is one of a kind, which will result in one-of-a-kind opportunities to solve exciting and challenging problems.”
- Sarah Freeman Miami Student
“This will be a hub here with smart manufacturing to pool all those disciplines together,” President Crawford said.
Singh also remarked on how the SMART FIT Lab brings together a wide range of disciplines.
“It brings together students and faculty from engineering, computer science, supply chain, and entrepreneurship,” he said.
“Electrical and robotics engineers can work on control systems and vision technology, while chemical and biomedical engineers explore process automation and devices,” he said. “Entrepreneurship and Emerging Technology in Business and Design students can prototype and test tech-enabled products using the lab’s smart equipment.”
Another opportunity for collaboration is with cybersecurity education. James
Walden, director of Miami's Center for Cybersecurity, said the combination of information technology and operational technology (OT) – the hardware and software of the lab’s machinery – populate new cybersecurity threats. OT systems are being targeted by ransomware more as manufacturing moves into a more online environment.
“The SMART-FIT lab offers an opportunity for our faculty to research and our students to learn about OT threats and vulnerabilities in a real world environment,” Walden said.
With so many applications for learning and creating with students and faculty alike, Singh said the lab will truly be a “gateway to the future of advanced manufacturing.”
By Alissa Paolella, Central State University
A promising new solution to combat citrus greening — a disease responsible for devastating losses in the citrus industry — is advancing to Phase 2 field trials following breakthrough research involving a Central State University scientist.
Pop Test Oncology LLC, operating as Palisades Therapeutics, recently announced that its proprietary compound, TPR1, emerged as the leading candidate among over 200 compounds evaluated by the United States Department of Agriculture. TPR1 will now be tested across citrus groves in replicated field trials designed to evaluate its effectiveness under commercial conditions.
Dr. Anthony Arment, a molecular biologist and professor of biology at Central State University, played a key role in early research and ongoing consultation for the project.
He was asked by Palisades Therapeutics to build on previous studies involving Liberibacter crescens, the closest culturable relative of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, the pathogen behind citrus greening (also known as Huanglongbing or HLB).
“I performed the preliminary work testing the susceptibility of L. crescens to TPR1, as well as other potential compounds,” Dr. Arment said.
Dr. Anthony Arment, Professor of Biology
“The initial research showed that L. crescens was extremely susceptible to antibiotics like TPR1, but we needed a molecule that could withstand light, heat, and the environmental degradation conditions of Florida and stay viable within the trees long enough to be effective. Liberibacter spp. grow very slowly, so long-term exposure is critical to control, and TPR1 demonstrated all necessary traits as a potential solution.”
Although citrus is not grown in Ohio and infected tissue cannot be transported, Dr. Arment continues to contribute by consulting on experimental planning and data interpretation. His expertise in molecular biology and microbiology has been crucial in evaluating how the pathogen responds to treatment and ensuring the compound’s safety to citrus trees.
TPR1 works by disrupting the pathogen’s ability to translate genes into proteins, a mechanism that makes it highly effective. The molecule was specifically engineered for agricultural resilience, maintaining stability in harsh environmental conditions.
Field trials will now assess TPR1’s impact on tree health, fruit quality, yield, and its environmental profile. The goal is to halt disease progression and restore productivity to infected trees.
“There are currently no effective treatments for citrus greening,” Dr. Arment noted. “This disease has led to a 75% decline in citrus production over the past 20 years, and the estimate rises to 90% when factoring in
hurricanes and real estate development. It’s a global issue impacting a $17 billion market.”
Dr. Arment’s involvement in the project also contributes to Central State’s Land-Grant mission. While citrus is not native to Ohio, undergraduate biology students at CSU have participated in research on TPR1 and tested other Palisades products targeting the insect vector responsible for disease transmission.
In addition to the USDA and Central State, Palisades collaborated with the Citrus Research and Development Foundation (CRDF) and Bayer Crop Science. The research collaboration has enabled the rapid evaluation and deployment of innovative solutions to address the devastating impact of HLB on the citrus industry, according to Palisades.
The TPR1 project is led by Dr. Michelle Heck of the USDA, Tom Minter of Palisades Therapeutics, and Dr. Arment. Their collective expertise has guided the project from laboratory screening to real-world trials.
This advancement marks a hopeful turning point for citrus growers and underscores the value of research collaborations between federal agencies, industry leaders, and academic institutions such as Central State University.
This summer, high school seniors and recent high school graduates had the opportunity to earn workforce credential certifications and gain access to internships and job opportunities through an innovative partnership between GRIT Ohio and Belmont College.
The program offered no-cost, three-week courses thanks to funding provided by The GRIT Project (Growing Rural Independence Together). The purpose of these courses is to empower upcoming and graduating high school seniors by offering workforce credential certifications and internship/job placement opportunities.
Nick Connor (left) and Mavrick Cross, both 2025 graduates of Toronto High School, complete the Drone Technology program at Belmont College. They will next take the FAA Recreational UAS Test, which is a pre-requisite for any 107 operator, and will then be eligible to complete their USI Modules, which will earn them the USI Part 107 Training Certification. This certification will prepare them to sit for the official Part 107 exam if they decide to do so.
A total of 21 students participated in the program, gaining hands-on experience across high-demand fields. Of the 21, eight enrolled in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning program, three in heavy equipment technician, eight in welding, and two in drone technology. They are receiving the following certifications, per enrolled program:
Drone Technology — Students will complete the FAA Recreational UAS Test, the prerequisite for any 107 operator and they will be encouraged to complete their USI Modules, which will earn them the USI Part 107 Training Certification. This will prepare them to sit for the official Part 107 exam.
Rylee Homko-Green, a 2025 graduate from Cambridge High School, cuts with plasma in the GRIT welding program while other students observe.
Heavy Equipment Technician — ASE entry level certifications in medium/heavy duty trucks such as: diesel engines, electrical systems, and brake systems.
HVAC
• Core, Type 2, and Recovery and Evacuation Certification
Welding
• D1.1 1G Position SMAW
• D1.1 2G Position SMAW Pipe
Students from the following high schools participated: Barnesville High School; Buckeye Local High School; Cambridge High School; Indian Creek High School; Jefferson County JVS; Shenandoah High School; St. Clairsville High School; Toronto High School; and Union Local High School.
“This summer program worked to equip graduating high school seniors with the skills, certifications, and hands-on experience they need to jumpstart their careers,” said Keith Kaczor, director of industrial trades at Belmont College. “It was an excellent opportunity for them to gain practical, job-ready skills that can lead directly to employment.”
The program concluded on June 27 and a small graduation ceremony was held to celebrate the students’ accomplishments.
Jermel Bailey, Eastern Ohio Aspire director of data and compliance, teaches one of the program’s adult education classes.
Dedicated staff at the Aspire adult education program did not miss a step when transferring to the Jefferson County Educational Service Center as fiscal agent with the closing of Eastern Gateway Community College. Operating with the full support of JCESC since last summer and rebranded Eastern Ohio Aspire, the program has graduated more than 40 students from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.
Funded by the Aspire grant through the Ohio Department of Higher Education, Eastern Ohio Aspire assists with high school equivalency diplomas and offers services for English speakers of other languages, integrated education and training, correctional education, distance learning, and workplace and family literacy. The program covers Jefferson, Belmont, Harrison, Carroll, Columbiana and Mahoning counties.
Director of Transitions Christina Wanat said Aspire is proud of the number of graduates. The program kept up its mission without disruption as it moved under JCESC’s auspices.
“The ESC made the transition very smooth for the staff and students. That was a welcome benefit,” she said.
Students who pass Aspire’s preparatory classes then take the test to earn their high school equivalency diplomas.
Wanat said the Aspire program is personalized. When students begin, instructors assess their skills to determine what areas need additional focus, whether reading, writing, or math.
The transfer has meant a change in locations. Aspire now offers classes out of the Jefferson County Community Action Council in Steubenville as well as the Jefferson Metropolitan Housing Authority JFK building. Aspire often holds classes in the Department of Job and Family Services facility of the other counties served.
A student’s time studying with Aspire varies due to their skill level and the help they need to prepare for the test.
Jermel Bailey, director of data and compliance, can be found in the JFK classroom teaching a group of adult students. He looked back on Aspire’s first fiscal year with JCESC.
Eastern Ohio Aspire hit its stride and immediately went to work getting word out. The first task was retaining students when many were accustomed to Aspire’s location at Eastern Gateway.
“New students were trying to figure out where we were because they were so used to hearing about us being with Eastern Gateway,” he said. Bailey
said JCESC’s support was vital in promoting the new operations.
“We were able to find our footing, get everybody in the positions they need with getting new staff on board,” he said. “We had a pretty successful first year and look forward to seeing how things go in the future.”
Aspire personnel also were hard at work building new partnerships throughout the counties they serve. These include the Community Literacy Workforce and Cultural Center at Lowellville in Mahoning County, which offered Aspire space to hold adult basic education classes and English as a second language classes.
“We started up there,” Bailey said. “Just kind of built our presence in that area. We’re still in the process of letting it be known that we’re there. That was one partnership that we’re proud of, that we were able to make happen.”
The program has partnered with Lighthouse Counseling and Meditation to provide continuing education to those recovering from addiction. Additionally, Aspire educators work with people in the corrections system to develop workplace literacy skills once they are released.
Aspire maintained partnerships with Ohio Means Jobs in different counties.
The transition to JCESC has equipped Aspire with some tools to strengthen its online classes. Bailey
said students find online learning an important option since it offers flexibility for learners who have jobs, families, children, and other adult responsibilities and want to pursue their education.
The Aspire program is known for investment in student success and working with students one on one to identify and bolster students’ weak points and make certain they are not falling through the cracks. While at EGCC, Bailey said personnel were concerned about online learning and if educators could remain closely involved to make certain the students are mastering the material.
However, Bailey said the transfer gave Aspire the benefit of JCESC’s Virtual Learning Academy and its user-friendly and highly responsive features.
“They were able to help us tremendously by offering us their platform,” he said. He added some students prefer to learn at their own pace, and the material is catered directly to what they will need to take the high school equivalency test.
Bailey said the online courses offer the structure of a definite window, but a wide one, to complete assignments.
“That transition has helped a lot,” he said. “We want to be able to offer as many possible classes and times for students.”
Aspire is looking at the obstacles students face and how to remove them. Bailey said new students are required to complete the Test of Adult Basic Education online, but some students do not have computers or internet access at home, so staffers can offer to let them take the test in an Aspire office.
Aspire personnel are speaking with other potential partners that might host remedial classes in reading or for English speakers of other languages.
“We’re just looking to help in any avenue we possibly can,” Bailey said. “The future is looking pretty wide open.”
Bailey commends the Aspire staff and educators for their hard work.
The 2025 Ohio State Fair recently concluded, marking another successful year of community engagement while showcasing Ohio's educational initiatives and opportunities. The Ohio Department of Higher Education again participated as part of the Youth Exploration Space (Lausche Building), along with our partners at the Ohio Technology Consortium and the Ohio Tuition Trust Authority. Over the course of the fair, we were also joined by our campus partners from Ohio's colleges, universities, and career technical centers, which took the opportunity to highlight and promote various programs and career fields to thousands of fairgoers.
Visitor engagement was a hallmark of the ODHE booth, and guests could take part in numerous hands-on activities. With back-to-school season in full swing, it was the perfect time for kids to make a backpack tag or color a bookmark. They could also learn more about supercomputers while disassembling and reassembling a supercomputer node. The Ohio Tuition Trust Authority prize wheel was a popular destination for kids throughout the fair, and guests of all ages could tour Ohio's campuses virtually through the Universe of Opportunity virtual reality activity. The booth was manned by knowledgeable staff who were ready to answer questions about career pathways, saving for college, and how Ohio is making higher education accessible and affordable for all.
Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel visited the ODHE booth on opening day of the fair, and the Governor returned with First Lady Fran DeWine later in the week to get a closer look at the Universe of Opportunity and supercomputer activity.
The Ohio State Fair continues to be a great vehicle for engaging with the public, having meaningful conversations, sharing valuable information, and promoting educational resources, all in a spirit of fun and enjoyment. We're already looking forward to next year (which, incidentally, will also be the 250th birthday of America) - see you then!
A special thank you to all of those who contributed stories and articles:
Miami unveils smart manufacturing lab
Zoë Hill
Multi-Channel Content Creator
Miami University
Central State University scientist helps advance citrus greening solution to field trials
Alissa Paolella
CommunicationsManager
Central State University
Belmont College, GRIT Ohio Celebrate Summer Program Success
Julie Keck DirectorofMarketing andStrategicCommunications
BelmontCollege
Eastern Ohio Aspire Thrives Under New Leadership, Celebrates Over 40 Graduates
Jermel Bailey
Karla Gregory-Martin Directorofdata and compliance Senior Executive Director JeffersonCountyEducational ServiceCenter JeffersonCountyEducational ServiceCenter
2025 Ohio State Fair Wrap-up
Thank you to all of the schools that participated in this year's Ohio State Fair.
Thanks for reading ConnectED. If you have any story suggestions, links to articles of interest, or news releases to share, feel free to send them to Jeff Robinson at jrobinson@highered.ohio.gov.
