Governor DeWine appoints Connor Gaugler as new student trustee to OHIO Board of Trustees

Ohio Governor Mike Dewine recently appointed a new student member to the Ohio University Board of Trustees. Connor Gaugler was named a student trustee on April 3, 2026. 

“Connor brings a commitment to civic engagement that truly reflects the values of Ohio University,” Ohio University Board of Trustees Chairman Matt Evans said. “We are confident that his perspective and passion for student advocacy will enrich the Board’s work and strengthen our connection to the student body.”

Gaugler is pursuing degrees in Economics and Political Science, with a certificate in Environmental Studies Sustainability and Resilience. After college, he intends to take his passion for environmental stewardship and policy analysis and establish a career in Environmental Economics.

At Ohio University, Gaugler has been deeply involved in the Undergraduate Student Senate, where he currently holds the position of parliamentarian. Gaugler has focused on bettering the organization while simultaneously uplifting the student body. He has coordinated civil discourse events to promote cross-partisan discussion, held voter registration events to expand civic engagement and met with lawmakers in Columbus to advocate on behalf of the student body. 

In addition, Gaugler is a Voinovich Undergraduate Research Scholar, where he contributes to economic development research within the greater Appalachian region. His desire to provide for and contribute to the area around Ohio University is also reflected in his commitment to the Hall Scholar economic cohort, where he regularly meets with community leaders to better understand the economic conditions facing those around Athens, while creating lasting connections within the department. 

In his free time, He enjoys running, swimming, rock climbing and snowboarding, as well as spending time with his family and friends.

"It is a great privilege to represent Ohio University as a Student Trustee,” Gaugler said. “During my time as Trustee, it is my goal to promote student outreach so that I can best express the voices of my peers to the Board of Trustees. Furthermore, I am eager to gain experience through working alongside the talented members on the Board."

Gaugler’s first Ohio University Board of Trustees meetings as a student trustee is on June 11-12, 2026. His term will end on May 13, 2028.

Student trustees are appointed by the governor of Ohio from a group of five candidates suggested to the governor. A committee of student leaders annually reviews applications and forwards its nominations to the Office of the President for referral to the Governor's Office.