Ohio University graduate Jamie Brown to speak at OHIO Chillicothe Graduation Recognition Ceremony

Jamie Brown, who specializes in peer support and workforce development for local nonprofit Sojourners Care Network, will deliver the keynote address for OHIO Chillicothe’s Graduation Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, April 30.

Brown earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies from Ohio University’s Scripps College of Communication in 2022. A first-generation high school and college graduate, Brown draws on lived experience as a survivor of poverty to support the empowerment of individuals and strengthen community connections.

Ohio University Chillicothe Interim Dean of Campus and Community Relations Mike Lafreniere said that Brown is a valued community partner and part of the OHIO alumni network. 

“We are honored that Jamie has agreed to deliver the keynote address for our graduation recognition ceremony,” Interim Dean Lafreniere said. “Our graduates have overcome real obstacles to reach this milestone, and Jamie understands that journey firsthand. As a servant leader in our community, Jamie leverages lived experience and learned expertise, along with a heartfelt passion for community capacity-building, to support and strengthen Southern Ohio. Jamie's story is proof that the path forward is possible and that is exactly the message our graduates deserve to hear.”

Brown serves as president of the First Capital PRIDE Coalition and has previously served on Chillicothe City Council. A strong advocate for youth empowerment in Southeast Ohio, Brown has been in recovery since 2015 and is a survivor of homelessness.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to speak at OHIO Chillicothe’s Graduation Recognition Ceremony,” Brown said. “I am a proud graduate of Ohio University and I’m excited to share some perspectives and advice with the graduating class of Bobcats.”

Ohio University Chillicothe’s 2026 Graduation Recognition Ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 30, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Shoemaker Center on the Chillicothe Campus.

For additional information on the undergraduate and graduate ceremonies, please see the Graduation Recognition web page.