The Journal

Dr. Margaret L. Drugovich, Marietta’s 20^th President

Dr. Margaret L. Drugovich, Marietta’s 20^th President

Welcoming President Margaret L. Drugovich

Students, faculty, staff, Trustees, Alumni Association Council members, and the community started the Fall 2023 academic year off with a special welcome celebration for Dr. Margaret L. Drugovich, Marietta’s 20^th President.

Building off the momentum created with the successful completion of the historic This is The Time comprehensive campaign, Dr. Drugovich will lead MC through the academic year to prepare for the incoming 21^st President.

“The time is now to build a unified front and push for change together, as students and Administration,” says Marietta’s Student Government Association President Maria Cipro ’25. “I’m already overjoyed with her passion and drive to make our campus a student-centered institution, as she has not only reached out to meet our student government monthly but showed great concern in matters that impact students directly. She wants to know not only when there are concerns and celebrations, but also the mundane, day-to-day activities students find themselves in. Based on the interactions that I’ve had with President Drugovich, I feel that she has a clear directive for our campus and will push us to a new age of academic excellence and innovation.”

Dr. Drugovich is an experienced leader who most recently served as Hartwick College’s 10^th President. Her tenure saw the introduction of the FlightPath Promise, designed around student support, the new Translational Biomedical Research Management graduate program, the development of the Center for Craft Food & Beverage, and the Grain Innovation Center. Her time at Hartwick also saw the completion of a historic $34.7 million campaign, the development of a master facilities plan, and an initiative that addressed college affordability with the Three-Year Degree program.

Prior to her 14-year presidential term, she served as the Vice President for Strategic Communication and University Enrollment at Ohio Wesleyan University, and the Dean of Admission and Financial Aid at Bryant University. She also served as Associate Director for Institutional Research and Executive Assistant to the President at Bryant during her employment there.

Her education includes a Doctor of Management from Case Western Reserve University, where she was named a Fellow of the Mandel Center for Nonprofit Organizations. She also earned a Master’s in Medical Sociology from Brown University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Experimental Psychology from Albertus Magnus College.

“Being a pioneer is not always glamorous,” Drugovich says. “Finding a new way can be hard work. Opening a good and viable path requires a commitment to keeping an open mind, looking for opportunities, taking risks and ultimately breaking new ground despite the obstacles encountered along the way. When I look at you, my colleagues and college supporters, I see the future through your eyes. You are preparing a path for learning that will literally change our world. And to the students who are here, the Pioneers who came before you have given you a great gift. I urge you to accept this gift by fully committing yourself to learning.”

Getting into the MC groove

Marietta welcomes new students

By the time classes started on August 23, more than 350 first-time freshmen and transfer students were already well acquainted with what makes Marietta College so special.

From dozens of volunteers helping them move into their residence halls to guided tours on and off campus to a thrilling day whitewater rafting, new students were on the go learning about Marietta and meeting their new best friends. Their first week of classes included an all-campus picnic and a welcome event for President Margaret L. Drugovich.

English Professor earns prestigious NEH Fellowship

Zulma Marache, a young French immigrant living in New York City in the 1840s, was in the struggle of her young existence when the private details of her life became public.

“She was engaged, had sexual relations with her fiancé, became pregnant, he forced her to terminate the pregnancy and then refused to marry her,” says McCoy Professor of English Dr. Nicole Livengood. “There was a court case and she ended up testifying against her fiancé and the woman who provided the abortion. Because of this trial, The New York Herald published the trial information and then published her memoir, which was actually her legal statement that she made to the district attorney.”

Over the summer, Livengood was able to trace more about Marache’s genealogy and life story, thanks to a National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship. Livengood first learned about the woman while doing unrelated research on the digital newspaper database, Chronicling America. The grant helped her spend time in Winsted, Connecticut, Manhattan, and upstate New York — all locations Marache’s family lived.

The NEH grant supported Livengood’s eight-week research and writing project. She applied for the competitive fellowship last fall and learned at the end of the spring semester that her topic was selected.

“It was a pretty rigorous application process,” Livengood says. “I had to write a narrative explaining what I planned to do and why it’s important and have my whole research schedule lined up.”

She will need to submit a report and finish the project, including a digital version of Marache’s memoir with footnotes and a critical introduction so people can access it for free.

“Zulma’s story was published in the newspaper and so I’m really working to figure out what her life was like before and after she appeared in the newspaper because that’s really the only way she’s known otherwise right now.”

The first-person account was written in French, translated in English, and took up a full page in the newspaper, which also stood out to Livengood when she accidentally happened upon it during a scan of the digital database.

As a teacher, Livengood tries to incorporate primary source research into her classroom, because working with newspapers, census records and historical museums, and finding primary-source documentation awakens students to research and critical thinking in a way that reading about others, or a lecture doesn’t. She now enjoying this approach with her own research and experiencing its challenges.

“Also, a lot of it for me has been a learning curve,” Livengood says. “I’m a literature scholar and so certainly I’m approaching this as a memoir in literature, but I’m also thinking about it as ‘how do I find out how she lived?’ So, I’m finding myself asking questions and solving problems in new ways, which speaks to that life-long learning the liberal arts prepares you for.”

Project Title: Beyond Seduction and Abortion:
The Life and “Memoir” of Zulma Marache
Project Description: Research and writing of a two-part digital humanities recovery project on Zulma Marache (1818–1869), the only woman to testify in an abortion trial who also published an eyewitness account of her experience.

Dr. Nicole Livengood

Dr. Nicole Livengood

Zulma Marache's signature as being from the "The People vs. Napoleon Lareaux, Catharine Costello, and Catharine Costello, alias Maxwell, December 18, 1843." District Attorney Indictment Records, New York County, MN 5221, Roll 222. Municipal Archives, Department of Records and Information Services, New York, NY.

Zulma Marache's signature as being from the "The People vs. Napoleon Lareaux, Catharine Costello, and Catharine Costello, alias Maxwell, December 18, 1843." District Attorney Indictment Records, New York County, MN 5221, Roll 222. Municipal Archives, Department of Records and Information Services, New York, NY.

Q&A with President Margaret L. Drugovich

Dr. Margaret L. Drugovich, Marietta College’s 20th President, just completed her second month on campus. Dr. Drugovich most recently served as president of Hartwick College, retiring from that role in 2022 after 14 years. She earned a Doctor of Management from Case Western University, where she was named a Fellow of the Mandel Center for Nonprofit Organizations. She earned a master’s in medical sociology from Brown University and a bachelor’s in experimental psychology from Albertus Magnus College.

What moments in your career do you think are most influential to how you think as a leader?

I have had the privilege of watching mentors navigate the challenges of leadership. At times they succeeded, at other times they faltered. There were lessons to be learned on each occasion. The most successful leaders that I know are those who know how important it is to have talented colleagues to work with; who understand that there is not just one pathway to success; who keep an eye to horizon; and who treat the work to be done with respect.

Why did you want to take on this role at Marietta?

The more I learned about Marietta the more I came to believe that I could leverage my experience to help the College to make progress. Marietta is a wonderful college, and this is a challenging time for higher education. We have some very important work to do as we prepare to invite the College’s 21st President to lead.

What are your priorities as for your year as the Interim President of Marietta College?

My priorities are the priorities articulated by the Board of Trustees. These include strengthening the College’s financial position, evaluating the status of the strategic plan, and evaluating our current academic programs, among others. I am working with all of the senior officers at the College to also align their goals with these priorities and focus their effort on this specific work. Our students who come here full of enthusiasm, hope, and ambition. We must do our best to assure their success, and in doing so, assure our collective future. We are moving Marietta forward, together.

Dr. Margaret L. Drugovich

Dr. Margaret L. Drugovich

How are you planning to engage with Marietta’s students, faculty, staff, and alumni?

In every reasonable way! I have been speaking with individual graduates, spending as much time as possible with our students, and I am working very closely with The President’s Cabinet on our strategic priorities. I have met with the Cotton Society and the Marietta College Alumni Association. I will be meeting with the Student Government Association executive committee or the SGA in its entirety monthly. I meet with the Faculty Council regularly, and the Staff Council as well. I have had many individual conversations as well as group discussions. I attended to our first football game, the Washington County Fair Parade as part of a large Marietta College contingent, our opening term dinner, our Matriculation ceremony, our Opening Convocation, the Student Interest Fair. … I try to apply everything I learn through these experiences to better inform our efforts, support our students and support my colleagues.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of campus?

Yes. But I am pretty busy, so I have had to put them aside, for now!

Meet Marietta’s new faculty

It’s the start of a new academic year — and the beginning of a handful of professors’ teaching careers at Marietta College. We’re excited to introduce these talented faculty members to the MC community and wish them well as they take their place at the front of the class.

Mitchell Krumm

Assistant Professor of Political Science/Public Law

Dr. Mitchell Krumm earned his undergraduate degree in Political Science (minors in Philosophy and Music) from The Ohio State University. His graduate education was at Indiana University, where he earned a Master of Arts in Political Science and a Ph.D. in Political Science (minor in Philosophy). His fields in Political Science are Political Theory and American Politics. While earning his doctorate, he taught classes at Indiana University, Butler University, and Ivy Tech Community College. His first position after graduation was at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota. Following that position, he was at the University of South Carolina-Aiken. Krumm grew up in Granville, Ohio, so he is excited to be back in his home state and close to family.

What courses will you teach?

I will primarily teach courses on Political Theory, American Politics, and Public Law. This semester, I am teaching American National Government, State and Local Politics, Modern Political Thought, and Moot Court. I am looking forward to teaching courses on law, the Constitution, and a PIO class on the theme of Crime and Punishment next semester.

What excites you about teaching?

My parents are both music educators, and from an early age, I saw the power and joy of education. It is a privilege to be part of a student’s journey to a better life. Obviously, part of this is equipping people to have successful careers. But it also means equipping them to live well by understanding and appreciating the world around them. Finally, I also view teaching, particularly in my field, as a patriotic act. From the earliest days of the American republic higher education has been a backbone of popular government. Without a critical mass of citizens who have an education in politics and government beyond basic primary school civics, democracy simply reduces to which charlatan can deceive the most people. This is why I love teaching Political Science at every level, including teaching the one Political Science class someone takes as a general education requirement. I am excited to be part of building up people to be well-equipped citizens who can help us all truly have self-government.

What attracted you to Marietta College?

Marietta College’s emphasis on students working closely with faculty and educating the whole person were a huge part of why I wanted to be here. I also appreciate the depth of involvement many students have in the community through clubs, sports, and other activities.

Do you have any hobbies or talents outside of your field?

I have dabbled in videography and editing, and I enjoy getting to National Parks and hiking (though, having young kids has mostly halted these things). I also am a Lego collector (you can see some of the collection if you visit my office).

What are your three must-read book suggestions?

Here are three books that are recent, fun to read, accessible to anyone, and will give you some deep insight into current politics:

“A Libertarian Walks Into a Bear: The Utopian Plot to Liberate an American Town (and Some Bears)” by Matthew Hongoltz-Hetling
“The Storm Before the Storm: The Beginning of the End of the Roman Republic” by Mike Duncan
“A World After Liberalism: Philosophers of the Radical Right” by Matthew Rose

Kristi Barnes

Assistant Professor of Psychology

Dr. Kristi Barnes earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Marietta College, a Master of Arts in Lifespan Developmental Psychology from West Virginia University, and her Ph.D. in Lifespan Developmental Psychology from West Virginia University. While ABD, she worked at Washington & Jefferson College in a three-year replacement position. In 2005, she joined the faculty of Ohio University at the Southern Campus in Ironton, Ohio, where she remained until August 2023.

What courses will you teach?

I will be teaching the developmental psychology courses. This fall I am teaching Child Development (PSYC 206) and a special topics graduate seminar in Developmental Psychology (PSYC 601). The seminar focuses on interpersonal relationships in adulthood.

What excites you about teaching?

This is a tough question. It’s hard to pick just one thing about teaching that is exciting. One of the things that excites me most about teaching is that moment when a concept just “clicks.” You can see the sense of accomplishment. Then to watch students actively engage with one another, maybe even explaining the concept to someone else in the class — that’s the best.

What attracted you to Marietta College?

For me, it’s the same thing that attracted me to MC as an undergraduate. It is clear that Marietta College is a student-centered institution. Everyone at the college is invested in the students and committed to supporting their success.

Do you have any hobbies or talents outside of your field?

I love to read, DIY home improvement projects, listening to music, watching documentaries, and spending time with family and friends.

What are your three must-read book suggestions?

Irena’s Children: A True Story of Courage (by Tilar J. Mazzeo)
The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life, Freedom and Justice on Death Row (by Anthony Ray Hinton and Lara Love Hardin)
Just about anything by James Patterson

John Haller

Instructor of Graphic Design

John Haller earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts with a specialization in Directing from the University of Northern Colorado. Subsequently, he pursued advanced studies at Kent State University, where he attained both a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual Communication Design. He gained valuable practical experience at Glyphix Studios, a distinguished creative collaboration. While at Glyphix Studios, he actively contributed to a dynamic classroom initiative that enabled advanced students within the School of Visual Communication Design to immerse themselves in thoughtful client-based and self-guided exploration of design challenges. These diverse experiences have collectively strengthened his expertise in graphic design and ignited his enthusiasm for teaching.

What courses will you teach?

This fall at Marietta College, I am excited to teach Software for Design and Logo Design and Branding. These courses provide students with essential skills and insights in the realm of graphic design. Software for Design equips students with hands-on experience in utilizing industry-standard design tools, while Logo Design and Branding delves into the strategic aspects of creating impactful brand identities. I am looking forward to guiding students through these courses, nurturing their creative potential, and fostering a deep understanding of the dynamic world of graphic design.

What excites you about teaching?

What excites me most about teaching is the chance to inspire and guide the next generation of thinkers and leaders in graphic design. Witnessing students’ growth and witnessing their “aha” moments as they grasp complex concepts is incredibly rewarding. I believe in fostering a dynamic learning environment where students are encouraged to question, explore, and engage actively in the subject matter.

What attracted you to Marietta College?

I was drawn to Marietta College for its rich history and commitment to academic excellence. The institution’s emphasis on small class sizes and giving students personalized attention aligns perfectly with my teaching philosophy. Moreover, the vibrant campus community and the opportunity to contribute to Marietta’s tradition of producing well-rounded graduates made joining the faculty an exciting prospect.

Do you have any hobbies or talents outside of your field?

One of the most significant dreams I’m nurturing is to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. The idea of immersing myself in the natural beauty and challenges of this iconic trail has always captivated me. In fact, this aspiration has become a central focus of my research endeavors.

I’m currently working on developing a smartphone app that aims to enhance the safety and overall experience of individuals hiking the Appalachian Trail. The app will provide real-time trail information, weather updates, emergency assistance features, and even educational tidbits about the flora, fauna, and history along the way. My hope is that this app will make the trail more accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts while promoting responsible and enjoyable hiking practices.

In addition to my hiking pursuits, I’m also delving into the world of bookbinding. There’s something remarkably satisfying about crafting a physical object that holds stories and knowledge within its pages. I’ve taken it upon myself to learn the art of bookbinding, experimenting with various techniques and materials. This creative outlet not only connects me with the rich tradition of bookmaking but also offers a meditative escape from the demands of modern life.

Both my interest in thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail and my foray into bookbinding share a common thread — a desire to connect with the past, nature, and the tangible aspects of our world. These passions not only enrich my life but also provide valuable perspectives that influence my work and outlook on life. As I continue to explore these avenues, I’m excited to see where they lead me and how they shape my personal and professional journey.

What are your three must-read book suggestions?

On Trails: An Exploration by Robert Moore. It offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of trails and their significance in various aspects of human and natural history. The book delves into how trails are more than just physical paths; they embody concepts of navigation, connectivity, culture, and the human experience.
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson. It offers a balanced portrayal of a complex individual who played a pivotal role in shaping the modern world through his technological innovations, artistic vision, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. While this book may not resonate with everyone in the same way, its themes, historical context, and powerful storytelling make it a worthwhile read for those interested in delving into the complexities of human experience, social justice, and the challenges of a changing world.

James Morrel

Assistant Professor of Management

Dr. Jim Morrel comes to Marietta with a wealth of experience, including being a Partner at Ernst & Young and Adkisson Consultant, President at Morell & Associates, Managing Director at JCM Advisors, Administrator for The Ohio State University Hospitals & Clinics, and Inspector General Auditor for the U.S. Army. He also worked for Sears, Roebuck & Co., University of Minnesota Hospitals & Clinics, and Hamilton Associates. He has served as an adjunct faculty member at DePaul University and North Park University. He earned his DBA in Integrated Management and Accounting and a Master of Science in Audit and Advisory Services with a focus on Forensic Accounting from DePaul University, a Master of Science in Hospital and Health Services Administration from Ohio State, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Psychology–Organizational Design from Case Western Reserve University.

What courses will you teach?

Management 201 - Managing Organizations
Management 345 - Human Resources Management
Management 453 - Business Policies & Practices
Management 454 - Business Consulting

What excites you about teaching?

Watching the expressions of students when they connect the dots of the subject matter, preparing students for their first professional position and providing students with career support post-graduation.

What attracted you to Marietta College?

As a Buckeye, I have known about Marietta College since I was in high school. Also, Marietta College’s Student First approach to education and student development.

Do you have any hobbies or talents outside of your field?

Over the years my outside interests have included: Church – Vestry (board member), Head Usher, Bible Study leader, and Youth Leader; Scouting – Cub Master, Scout Leader, Venture Crew Leader, Advancement Committee Chair; and sports – D1 Club Men’s Lacrosse Coach, High School Boys Soccer and Baseball Coach, and Youth Coach for baseball, basketball, soccer, and football.

What are your three must-read book suggestions?

The Bible (or your faith’s foundational reading)
Biographies of historic figures (you learn about the person and the history of their time)
David McCullough’s complete collection, not just The Pioneers

Michelle Elia

Visiting Assistant Professor of Education

Michelle Elia previously worked on behalf of the Ohio Department of Education as one of two Ohio Literacy Leads, a role that allowed her to curate content and train district administrators, teachers, and regional consultants across Ohio in the science of reading. She is proud to have served the state in leadership as Ohio transitions to the science of reading in Pre-K through 12th grade education. Elia is a nationally recognized literacy professional development provider, training educators nationwide in literacy assessments and instruction within an MTSS framework grounded in reading science. She is a national LETRS trainer and Reading League professional development specialist. She serves as a school board member of her local district and a board member for the Northern Ohio Branch of the International Dyslexia Association. This year, Elia will be starting her term as the President of The Reading League Ohio. A lifelong learner, Elia is pursuing her doctorate in Reading Science at Mount St. Joseph University. She has a master’s degree, leadership certificate, and principal’s license from Walsh University. She earned her reading endorsement and dyslexia specialist certification from Mount St. Joseph University. Her bachelor’s degree is in special education from Youngstown State University. Elia is passionate about ensuring all students learn to read using evidence-based literacy practices that are inclusive of all students. When she is not talking about reading, her favorite job is being a mom to three active teenagers.

What courses will you teach?

This semester, I will be teaching Phonics, Developmental Literacy, and Foundations of Reading Instruction

What excites you about teaching?

When I train teachers, I first hear, “Why didn’t I learn this is college?” Not all of Ohio universities teach reading according to science; the evidence base we refer to as reading science, as Marietta College is. This leaves many teachers unprepared and frustrated when their students are not progressing and making the gains they should, especially when teachers are working so hard. I feel like, in this role, I can prepare preservice educators, teaching them about the neuroscience and cognitive psychology that has informed reading instruction to ensure that all students learn how to read. I can model practices for explicit instruction. I am excited to be a part of teacher preparation so that educators don't feel the frustration that I did when my students struggled to read. We can prevent so many reading difficulties!

What attracted you to Marietta College?

I had a chance to work with the faculty in the education department at Marietta College in my previous role as Ohio Literacy Lead for ODE. They were forward thinkers and statewide leaders, motivated to ensure their preservice teachers knew how to teach all students how to read. Most importantly, like me, they were learners and wanted to learn as much as possible about the science of reading. Another huge reason: I really respect Dottie Erb, Professor Emeritus in the Education Department, as a leader in our field. So, I was thrilled by the possibility of being a part of a team with her!

Do you have any hobbies or talents outside of your field?

I wouldn’t call it a hobby, necessarily, but I love to cook, especially Italian food. Nothing makes me happier than making meals for my family. I also love any opportunity to spend time with my husband and teenage children, playing games or just watching a movie. It’s those little moments that define who we are.

What are your three must-read book suggestions?

The Knowledge Gap by Natalie Wexler
The Reading Brain by Stanislaus Dehaene
I am currently reading Braiding Sweetgrass (by Robin Wall Kimmerer), a recommendation from a former literacy professor who has influenced so much of my work. It is a book I think I will read over and over again and continue to learn from. This is a book everyone should read.