Ohio University Eastern alumnus Jason Garczyk gives back as local leader, community voice

Jason Garczyk, a proud Ohio University Eastern alumnus and current Belmont County recorder, has joined the Community Connections Podcast as a co-host for its second season, alongside OHIO Eastern student Drake Watson.

Garczyk, who graduated in 2015 with a double major in applied business management and communication studies, said his journey at Ohio University Eastern was shaped by a supportive family and a strong desire to stay close to home.

“I grew up on a farm outside Maynard,” Garczyk said. “My family pushed me to go to college, and attending Ohio University Eastern allowed me to stay on the farm while pursuing my goals.”

While in college, Garczyk found both academic and personal growth through memorable experiences and mentors. One highlight was meeting Professor Michael Schor during his freshman year. After collaborating on several projects, Garczyk became Schor’s teaching assistant for accounting and finance courses and helped establish the tutoring center affectionately known as the “House of Tutor.”

“That was a great time,” said Garczyk. “I gained valuable experience working with Professor Schor and helping fellow students.”

Garczyk encourages current and prospective students to get involved in campus life and take advantage of opportunities beyond their comfort zones.

“Don’t be afraid to try new things,” he said. “I’ll never forget when Dean Rich Greenlee asked me to bring back Rotaract, Rotary for college students, to campus. It felt outside my comfort zone at the time, but it pushed me to bring students together for a common cause.”

He also suggests exploring classes outside of one’s major.

“I took an art class with a few friends, very much out of my comfort zone, but I still look back on it fondly," said Garczyk.

Now serving as an elected official, Garczyk continues to find ways to stay engaged with the community and the university that helped shape his path. His role on the Community Connections Podcast allows him to highlight local voices and issues, connecting students, alumni and residents in meaningful dialogue. 

“Jason brings a unique energy and perspective to the new season of the podcast,” said Dan Christian, OHIO Eastern Career Services coordinator and the community liaison for podcast content. “Through his experiences as an alum, memberships in civic organizations and as a public official he has a connection with the people of the Ohio Valley and asks questions of our guests that I think our listeners want to hear in a very relatable way. His involvement and personal experiences not only add depth to our conversations but also demonstrate to students what’s possible after graduation.”

For those considering Ohio University Eastern, Garczyk offers simple advise.

“Whether you’re starting your degree here and transferring or staying in the area, this regional campus offers plenty of opportunities to be involved in both campus life and the community," said Garczyk.

Season two of the Community Connections Podcast, featuring co-hosts Garczyk and Watson, launches Sept. 5, 2025, on iHeartRadio and other major podcast platforms.