Owens Strengthens Regional Education Partnerships, Accelerates Pathways to Workforce Success with Penta and UToledo Collaborations

Owens Community College has reinforced its role as a pivotal connector in the regional education ecosystem with a pair of Express agreements designed to streamline students’ pathways from high school through higher education and into the workforce. In collaboration with Penta Career Center and The University of Toledo (UToledo), Owens solidified separate agreements aimed at addressing the region’s workforce needs and supporting economic growth in northwest Ohio.
“At Owens, we are committed to providing students with the education they need to succeed,” said Dione D. Somerville, PhD, president of Owens Community College. “By partnering with Penta and The University of Toledo, we are ensuring that students have a clear, accessible pathway to higher education and meaningful careers, all while addressing the workforce needs that are so critical to the region’s economic growth. These agreements are a great example of how we can collaborate to make a tangible difference in the lives of our students and the broader community.”
Owens and Penta Career Center signed a new pathway agreement that allows high school students to start their college journey early, offering a seamless transition into higher education. The partnership offers guaranteed admission to Owens upon high school graduation, with  qualifying students receiving a $1,000 scholarship plus the opportunity for additional scholarships.
“We are looking forward to the implementation of the Penta Express for our students, providing them with pathway options for post-secondary education at Owens Community College,” said Edward Ewers, superintendent of Penta Career Center. “This partnership is a perfect fit for many of our students who may benefit from additional support as they transition to college.
Through priority admission and registration, access to scholarships, and dedicated support services, we believe the Penta Express creates valuable options for our students to pursue and achieve their goals in higher education.”
Additionally, Owens reaffirmed its long-standing partnership with The University of Toledo, extending a pathway agreement that was first established in 2017. Originally renewed in October 2022, the agreement enhances transfer opportunities, allowing Owens students guaranteed admission into bachelor’s programs at UToledo upon completing their associate degrees at Owens.
The renewed Rocket Express Admission Pathway is an evolution of the original agreement between the two institutions, and a reassertion of the commitment to working together for the betterment of the economy and workforce in northwest Ohio.