Ohio Governor Mike DeWine Week in Review

Ohio Lt. Governor Jim Tressel visited the Geauga Campus of Kent State University (KSU) as part of his ongoing work to evaluate the workforce strengths and needs of regions throughout Ohio. 

"As I've visited different colleges and universities across the state, healthcare and the demand for qualified, dedicated nurses has been a topic of discussion in every region. As our healthcare system continues to grow and evolve, so does the critical need for additional medical professionals," said Lt. Governor Tressel. "Kent State has done a great job of preparing their nursing students with the technical and professional skills needed in the healthcare industry."

Ohio First Lady Fran DeWine hosted a book reading at the Logan-Hocking County District Library with Ami Cole, president of the Ohio Health Plan for Molina Healthcare, to celebrate the ongoing support for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Southeast Ohio.

Statewide, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio has 408,391 children participating in the program, which totals 61% of the state’s eligible children. In Hocking County, 1,022 children are part of the program.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and First Lady DeWine joined Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the new Exploration Center at Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve. The space will feature exhibits, hands-on activities, a replica of a slump block cave, and more. It is the first facility of its kind at an Ohio state nature preserve.

Registered as a National Natural Landmark in 1968, Clifton Gorge protects one of the most spectacular dolomite and limestone gorges in the state. It also encompasses a 2-mile stretch of the Little Miami State and National Scenic River, just east of John Bryan State Park.

Lt. Governor Tressel continued his visits across Ohio to evaluate the workforce strengths and needs of each region of the state.

He toured both the Kent State University (KSU) Airport and the College of Aeronautics and Engineering. KSU offers hands-on training in aeronautics and aviation, including advanced power systems, automation, manufacturing, and digital tools.

"It was great to be back on another Kent State campus today -- especially one doing such impressive work in a high-demand industry in Ohio," said Lt. Governor Tressel. "They're not just preparing students to lead in areas like advanced aviation and air mobility, but they're helping train the next generation and keeping Ohio at the forefront of an industry that's taking off across the state."

Governor DeWine held a ceremonial bill signing to designate the 1905 Wright Flyer III as the official state airplane. 

Senate Bill 24, sponsored by senators Terry Johnson (R-McDermott) and Steve Huffman (R-Tipp City) was officially signed by Governor DeWine in April. Today’s ceremonial event celebrated Ohio’s newly designated state plane, which was first flown by Orville Wright on June 23, 1905, near Dayton.

"The 1905 Wright Flyer III is a prime example of why Ohio is considered the heart of innovation," said Governor DeWine. "Making the Wright Flyer III the official state airplane is a great way to honor Ohio’s aviation heritage."