The DiBiasio years at ONU by the numbers
Editor's note: Ever get tired of making to-do lists? We recommend making a "done" list to put things in perspective. Here's a recently issued version of just such a list for outgoing ONU president Dan DiBiasio and first lady Chris Burns-DiBiasio.
Ohio Northern University released new data highlighting the combined accomplishments and achievements of President Dan DiBiasio and First Lady Chris Burns-DiBiasio one month prior to the couples’ retirement from ONU. This webpage and downloadable PDF provide quantitative examples of the University’s growth and impact during the couples’ 11 years in Ada.
The numbers show growth in areas such as operating budget and endowment, while also chronicling ONU’s contributions to the student experience and community from 2011-22. Much has been made of the DiBiasios’ impact on ONU over recent months, and the new project data puts the scope and scale of that impact into context.
Some of the highlights include the University’s $200 million endowment—an all-time high, and an average 94% placement rate for graduates during the 11-year span. The Campaign for Engineering: Building Impact at ONU successfully raised $17 million from private donors and also secured $62.7 million in funding from the USDA for capital improvements and refinancing that directly contributed to the construction of the James Lehr Kennedy Engineering Building, which increased the University’s capacity for engineering students, and is poised to propel ONU Engineering to new heights in coming years.
Additionally, investments in the community like Ada Community Engagement days and the College of Pharmacy’s mobile health clinic, the addition of athletics facilities and programs in men’s and women’s lacrosse and esports, and sustainability initiatives like the 3-megawatt solar field south of campus are further indicate a University set on course to meet the needs and face the challenges of the future.
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Friday, July 17, 2026
Thursday, July 16, 2026
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- July 18 Dog Days of Summer event in Kenton
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Wednesday, July 15, 2026
- Ohio EPA issues Air Quality Advisory due to Canadian wildfires
- UPDATE July 15 boil water advisory lifted for 700-800 blocks of S. Johnson St.
- Murder trial of Donna Jo Miller postponed until December
- June 2026 Hardin County rainfall reports
- Sept. 22-24 Farm Science tickets on sale
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Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Monday, July 13, 2026
- Youth swimming & stroke clinic with AHS Swim Team, July 23-26
- Ada Municipal Pool opens early for adults with children
- Letter: Hollar reflects on 4+ years spent as Ada chamber director
- 2026 Ohio Sales Tax Holiday is August 7-9
- Public meeting audio recorders wanted for Liberty, Orange and Richland townships
- August 5 National Night Out celebration at War Memorial Park