Welcome to the June edition of “Meet Your Model,” where we feature Ohio University students, alumni, faculty and staff that have stepped in to serve as models on The Bobcat Store website!

This month, we are featuring three-time Bobcat Jonathan Renard, who graduated in 2013 with a B.Ed. in Integrated Language Arts and minor in English, and in 2016 received two M.Ed. degrees in College Student Personnel and Critical Studies in Educational Foundation. We asked Jonathan about his experiences at Ohio University.

What led you to attend Ohio University?
"I’m a legacy Bobcat. My dad graduated from Ohio University in 1975, and while I was in high school seeking higher education opportunities, Ohio University was always my top choice. I didn’t visit the Athens campus until my family came for a campus visit my junior year of high school. I immediately fell in love with the campus and knew this was the right fit. I attended Ohio University 'undecided' and knew I was going to receive the support and guidance to find my passion and future career."

What is your fondest memory at OHIO?
"As an undergraduate student, a graduate student, and a full-time professional at Ohio University, I have a lot of wonderful memories at OHIO. On my first day of classes of my undergraduate career, I slept through my 8:10 a.m. University College course taught by Dr. Patti McSteen, associate dean of students. I frantically emailed Patti stating how sorry I was for missing my first-ever college course. Although it wasn’t the best first impression, because of this, Patti became my main contact, my mentor, and a large reason I was successful at Ohio University. I ended up working with Patti in the future, both as an undergraduate and graduate student. She even attended my wedding last fall. The relationships I’ve made here have all been extremely meaningful to me."

What is your favorite location on campus?
"Working in McGuffey Hall, I get to see and walk through College Green every day. It continues to be one of my favorite places and the beauty of the trees, bricks and buildings never gets old."

Where has your career taken you since graduating from OHIO?
"After graduating, I moved to New York City and took a position as an AmeriCorps VISTA with a non-profit focused on service-learning. I came back to Ohio University and graduated with my two master’s degrees. After graduating (again), I accepted a job with the Campus Involvement Center as the assistant director of student organizations. After a year and a half in that position, I accepted a job in University Advancement as the assistant director of development for University Wide Initiatives. In this position, I support the university in connecting alumni, parents and families, and friends of Ohio University with their philanthropic goals."