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soche news

SOCHE Announces New AI Webinar Series

2026-2027 Ai Webinar series schedule

With increased interest in and use of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education, demand also has grown for better understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented in this space. To help higher education professionals navigate this rapidly evolving landscape, the Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) will feature a special AI Webinar Series for the 2026-27 school year.

The webinars, which begin in October and feature faculty and staff from SOCHE member institutions, examine the evolving role of AI in higher education, from classroom instruction and assessment to productivity and student success.

“Artificial intelligence is changing how we teach, learn, work, and support students, and higher education professionals are being asked to adapt just as quickly,” said SOCHE president Dr. Cassie Barlow. “This series gives our members an opportunity to learn from colleagues who are already exploring thoughtful, practical ways to use AI in their work. By sharing what they are learning across our institutions, we can help one another approach these new tools with greater confidence and purpose.”

Registration is now open for the full webinar series. These and all SOCHE-hosted conferences, workshops, and trainings can be viewed at www.soche.org/events. Registrants who cannot attend a virtual session live will receive a link to the recording following the event.

SOCHE Skilled Trades Industry Sector Partnership

Our Collaborative Partnership!

SOCHE, and the Trades for Life Foundation have partnered to build and maintain the Western Ohio Technology Industry Sector Partnership. Our collaboration will leverage strong partnerships among employers, educators, workforce development agencies, government partners, and community organizations so we can better understand the evolving skill demands of Ohio’s industries and prepare Ohioans for the high-demand Skilled Trades jobs of the future.

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SOCHE Announces 2026-27 Lunch & Learn Webinar Series

2026-2027 SOCHE Lunch and Learn Schedule

The Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) has announced that it will host aseries of nine virtual “lunch-and-learns” throughout the 2026-27 school year. Offered during the noon hour on weekdays via the SOCHE Zoom platform, these events are open to everyone interested in education-focused professional development.

Designed to showcase the institutional knowledge that is present across SOCHE’s 22 member campuses, this webinar series offers broad professional development opportunities for anyone involved in education. Topics covered include ways to increase student engagement; artificial intelligence (AI); effective communication; cultural competence and belonging; inclusive classrooms; providing career guidance to students, and more. This is the fifth consecutive year that SOCHE has hosted a series of virtual lunch-and-learns for its members.

Dr. Cassie Barlow, president of SOCHE, remarked, “The SOCHE lunch-and-learn series offers valuable training on pertinent and timely topics, all designed to enhance the expertise of our member faculty, staff, and administrators. We are delighted by the sustained interest in our program, both from presenters and attendees. This year, the number of presentation proposals submitted surpassed that of any previous year.”

Vets Moving Forward

Vets Moving Forward is an annual community event that brings together veterans, active-duty military members, and their families with employers, Veteran Service Organizations, and essential community resources. Attendees can explore job opportunities, connect with VA services, learn about benefits, and access valuable support designed to help them succeed in employment, education, and everyday life. As a proud partner and organizer, SOCHE helps bring this collaborative event to life by connecting veterans with education, employment, and community resources that support long-term success.

Press release

SOCHE Awarded CenterPoint Energy Foundation Energizing Veteran Resilience Grant!

SOCHE has been selected as a recipient of a CenterPoint Energy Foundation Energizing Veteran Resilience Grant, receiving $25,000 to support veterans and their families throughout the Miami Valley. The grant is part of a special initiative established in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, supporting nonprofit organizations that strengthen veteran resilience through programs focused on housing stability, mental health, and everyday needs.

The funding will support SOCHE’s Vets Moving Forward: Reintegration Support and Basic Needs Initiative, expanding resources that help veterans successfully transition to civilian life, pursue education, and connect with employment opportunities.

Of the total award, a portion will fund grocery gift cards, which will be distributed through Veterans Service Commissions and university veteran centers in Montgomery, Greene, and Clark Counties. The funding will also support Vets Moving Forward programming in 2027, an event in its 10th year of helping veterans address barriers to employment, education, and long-term stability.

Press release

SOCHE Announced as WorkOhio's West Regional Hub

SOCHE has been named the West Regional Hub for WorkOhio, strengthening its role in connecting job seekers and employers across western Ohio. In this capacity, SOCHE provides personalized career support, workforce resources, and direct employer engagement to help individuals access meaningful career opportunities while supporting businesses in building strong, qualified teams. By aligning regional talent with in-demand industries, SOCHE and WorkOhio are advancing workforce development and driving economic growth throughout the region.

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