Jessica Rutkowski returns to OHIO as Regional Recruitment Manager at Lancaster campus

A familiar Bobcat is returning to Ohio University, only this time in a new role. Jessica Rutkowski has been named the Regional Recruitment Manager at OHIO Lancaster, bringing with her a decade of experience in student engagement, leadership development and strategic communication.

Rutkowski, a proud OHIO alumna, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism, specializing in Strategic Communication, with a minor in Marketing and a focus in Global and Local Leadership. Now, she’s returning to her alma mater to help future Bobcats find their path forward.

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“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to come back to OHIO and be part of a community that shaped so much of my personal and professional growth,” Rutkowski said. “This campus holds a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to help others experience the same sense of belonging and possibility.”

Before joining Ohio University in 2025, Rutkowski served as the Student Life Coordinator at St. Ursula Academy in Toledo, where she led student programming and campus events that fostered connection, inclusion, and leadership development. Prior to that, she spent more than four years with FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students), serving first as a campus missionary in Michigan and later as a Team Director in Dayton, Ohio. These are roles that deepened her strengths in mentorship, outreach, and relationship building.

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As Regional Recruitment Manager, Rutkowski represents OHIO Lancaster both on and off campus. Under the direction of Undergraduate Admissions and in collaboration with Regional Higher Education leadership, she will support the University’s enrollment efforts by working with prospective students, families, and community partners. Her role includes visiting area high schools, attending college fairs, hosting campus tours and developing strategies to help students understand the range of academic opportunities available at OHIO’s regional and Athens campuses.

“I'm excited to have Jessica in the Regional Recruitment Manager role at Ohio University Lancaster! Jessica will be a great addition to the campus community and a great resource for any student and family considering an OHIO education,” said Dan Yeatts, director of Access and Strategic Recruitment. “Her joy and positivity are contagious, so don't be surprised if you leave with a little extra spring in your step after meeting with her!”

Rutkowski’s student experience mirrors the story she now shares with prospective students. As an undergraduate, she interned with the OHIO Alumni Association and the Knights of Columbus, supporting national communication initiatives and alumni engagement programming. She was honored with the Outstanding Senior Award for Student Media Leadership and was actively involved across campus.

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Rutkowski encourages students to give themselves space and time to explore their interests as they prepare for life after high school.

“You don’t need to have everything figured out at 18,” she said. “It’s okay to ask questions, to change directions, and to take time to understand what matters to you. Some of the best decisions you’ll make come from being open to new experiences.”

To schedule a visit with Jessica Rutkowski or tour the OHIO Lancaster campus, visit www.ohio.edu/lancaster/visit, email rutkowski@ohio.edu or call 740.681.3332.