Kalinowski named assistant director of financial aid advising for OHIO Eastern, Zanesville

Ohio University graduate Wendy Kalinowski, a long-time student affairs professional with more than 30 years of service to the University, is stepping into a new role as assistant director of financial aid advising. In this position, she will serve students at both the Eastern and Zanesville campuses.

A proud native of Bethesda, Ohio and graduate of Union Local High School, Kalinowski is a two-time Bobcat. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communication and later completed a master’s in education, both from Ohio University. She has spent her entire professional career supporting students on the Athens campus in a variety of roles.

A new chapter in a lifelong OHIO journey

In her new role, Kalinowski will serve as a key resource for students and families navigating the financial aid process. She will provide personalized advising on FAFSA completion, federal and state aid eligibility, scholarship opportunities, student loan guidance and financial wellness. Her approachable style and student-first mindset are expected to be great assets to OHIO’s regional campus communities.

A career sparked by connection

Her journey into student support services began unexpectedly at the Dairy Queen in Barnesville, Ohio.

“I loved the family-like atmosphere there,” Kalinowski said. “When I got to Athens as a student, I was terrified to leave everything I knew. But I saw people my age laughing, wearing the same T-shirt, clearly comfortable and happy. It reminded me of that Dairy Queen environment. I found out they were resident assistants, and I knew I wanted to do what they were doing.”

Kalinowski became a resident assistant in her second year of college and spent the next two decades working in Residence Life. She later joined OHIO’s Learning Community Programs and eventually became part of Bobcat Student Orientation, where she supported incoming students as they transitioned into college life.

Coming home to serve regional campuses 

Now, she’s bringing that wealth of experience back home.

“After working in Athens for 31 years, being able to move back home and work with students as they prepare to begin their path toward higher education is very exciting and satisfying,” she said.

Kalinowski said her own experience as a first-generation college student helps her relate to students who may feel overwhelmed by the process.

“I want to help students, and their families feel more comfortable in what can feel like an overwhelming situation,” she said. “As someone who’s been there, I want them to know all things are possible and I’ll be here to help and encourage them.”

Campus leaders welcome Kalinowski

Jennifer Kellner-Muscar, director of student services at OHIO Eastern, said Kalinowski’s transition into this new role will bring meaningful support to the region’s student population.

“Wendy brings a unique blend of experience, warmth, and commitment to student success,” Kellner-Muscar said. “Her return to the region and her passion for helping students navigate financial aid make her an asset to our campus community.”

Jason Howard, director of student services at OHIO Zanesville, agrees.

“Wendy understands the challenges students face because she’s walked that path herself,” Howard said. “She meets students where they are and helps them move forward with confidence. We’re thrilled to welcome her to OHIO Zanesville in this new role.”

An advocate students can count on

As Kalinowski begins this next chapter of her career, students at both campuses will benefit from her decades of experience, local roots and deep commitment to helping them succeed.

For more information on the financial aid services available at Ohio University, contact Kalinowski at 740.588.1441 or rogersw@ohio.edu.