Advisors

Twelve trained volunteers provided 889 hours of one-on-one college advising in 2021/22. 410 Newark High School juniors and seniors benefited from learning about college deadlines and cost, ACT test preparation, financial aid options and scholarship information.

Eric Baker

Advisor since:

Fall 2014

Education:

B.A., Political Science, Ohio University

Park National Bank Leader on Loan

“As a former Wildcat, I remember the very early days of A Call to College and how beneficial it was during my time in high school. I am excited to give back to a program that has given so much to so many Newark High School students.”

Linda P. Cornell, PhD, PE

Advisor since:

Fall 2019

Education:

B.S., Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Syracuse University

M.E., Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

PhD. Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Mississippi State University

Jon Downes

Advisor since:

Fall 2021

Education:

B.A., History, Virginia Tech

M.B.A., Ashland University

Park National Bank Leader on Loan

"A Call to College is an amazing program that offers Newark High School students with the knowledge and support for their post-graduation goals. I look forward to being able to advise and assist students through the different opportunities that are available upon graduation."

Robin Galbari

Advisor since:

Fall 2022

Education:

B.A Otterbein University

M.Ed. Ashland University

"Those of us who have successfully navigated the path to life after high school must support our youth. They need to see the possibilities open to them. In addition, talking to teenagers restores my faith in a bright future for all of us!"

Anne Klauder

Advisor since:

Fall 2008

Education:

B.S., Nursing, Kent State University

Denison University Leader on Loan

"I believe in many ways that education is the foundation of success. I know that the college search process can be overwhelming and that high school students need someone to help them through the steps no matter what their post-graduation goals may be. I am so proud to be a part of the team that assists Newark High School students with this process."

Alex Mettille

Advisor since:

Fall 2019

Education:

Park National Bank Leader on Loan

B.A., International Business, Ohio University

"A Call to College is a wonderful resource to inspire and educate Newark High School students about the importance of continued education. I enjoy being part of a team that helps these students reach their goals."

Brent Smith

Advisor since:

Fall 2016

Education:

A.A., Criminal Justice, Central Ohio Technical College

B.S., Public Safety Management, Franklin University

Denison University Leader on Loan

"As a parent, I witnessed the support freely given to my own two children at Newark City Schools by the staff at A Call to College. This organization has been a great asset in both of their young lives. The resources available and sharing of knowledge to make an informed decision are invaluable. Through my own experiences working at a university, I have seen the transitions college students make through their four years. Volunteering for such a great organization affords me the opportunity to give back to the community and lend support to our future leaders."

Ryan Brechbill

Advisor since:

Fall 2014

Education:

B.S., Recreation Administration, Bowling Green State University

M.Ed., Human Resources, Bowling Green State University

Denison University Leader On Loan

"As a resident of Newark with two young children in the district, I wanted to get involved with the school system. The work of A Call to Colleges aligns well with my interests and passions and I strongly believe in their mission. I am excited to share my years of experience in higher education and career development with Newark High School juniors and seniors."

Marcia Downes

Advisor since:

Fall 2018

Education:

B.S., Geography, Radford College

"Volunteering at ACTC gives me the opportunity to share my passion for every Newark High School student to have a career that will support them throughout their lives. Students are blessed with post-secondary learning opportunities. CTEC, COTC and OSUN are jewels in our community."

Cherisse Hopper

Advisor since:

Fall 2017

Education:

B.S., Child and Family Development, Bowling Green State University

M.A., Education, The Ohio State University

"After a 34-year career teaching high school juniors and seniors, and working in the education department at Ohio State Newark following retirement, I am grateful for the opportunity to volunteer with A Call to College. The transition from high school to adulthood is exciting for students, but can also present many challenges. I am looking forward to serving as an advisor and helping the students in any way I can."

Cynthia Menzer

Advisor since:

Fall 2008

Education:

Major, Math, Rio Grande College

Major, Anthropology, The Ohio State University

"A Call to College is an amazing place where we get to develop a two year relationship with students while providing them tools and support as they plan their post-high school education. Education gives them the ability to broaden their horizons, reach their potential, and add to their earning power."

Jodi Pavol

Advisor since:

Fall 2022

Education:

B.S., Agriscience Education, Ohio State University

M.Ed. Ohio University

"I believe every student is great at something. With support, resources, and hard work, they can reach their version of success and live fulfilling lives. When I heard about the opportunity to coach students through creating a post high school plan, I felt excited about the opportunity to be part of that journey and to be the hype woman some of them need."

Joan Trautman

Advisor since:

Fall 2010

Education:

B.A., Economics and Psychology, Duke University

M.B.A., The Ohio State University

"College or any form of education beyond high school is so important to succeed in the world today, and for too many, the cost is too great. Helping juniors and seniors at Newark High School navigate the financial aid and scholarship maze so that they can achieve their goal of higher education is exceptionally rewarding."

Pattye Whisman, MD

Advisor since:

Fall 2019

Education:

B.S., Nuclear Medical Technology, University of Cincinnati

Doctor of Medicine, The Ohio State University

"I have been aware of the good work of the Call to College program for many years, but never had the time to participate. I believe that making sure our youth get the education they need to be self sufficient and content will go a long way to solving at least some of our community problems. I am looking forward to making that happen."