Ohio University Names Vice President for Student Affairs
Editor's Note: a photograph of Sostarich is available at: www.ohiou.edu/news/pix/SOSTARICH_MIKE.JPG
ATHENS, Ohio (June 2, 2000) -- A veteran Ohio University administrator has been named the university's new Vice President for Student Affairs.
Michael J. Sostarich, 52, was named to the post by President Robert Glidden today.
"I am very pleased to make this appointment. Mike Sostarich has many years
of experience in student affairs at Ohio University and he has given excellent leadership during the past two years as interim VP," Glidden said. "We conducted a national search and had many experienced candidates from whom to select. The more we considered possibilities, however, the more we realized that we had an outstanding leader in Mike, who cares deeply about student development and the role that the Division of Student Affairs plays in that at Ohio University."
Sostarich, who arrived at Ohio University as a graduate student in 1969, said he looks forward to continuing his work with students, their parents, and staff.
"Ohio University is a special place," he said. "Our students are energetic, curious, ambitious and friendly. The beauty and residential nature of our campus, quality of student life, and overall intimate atmosphere create many learning opportunities. It's rewarding to be part of a system that values individual growth. I look forward to strengthening the programming and services that have brought us this far."
In addition to serving as the interim vice president for student affairs, Sostarich worked as associate vice president for student affairs (1996-98), associate dean of students (1992-96), and assistant dean of students and director of student life programs (1983-92). From 1973-83, he was involved in management and programming for the John Calhoun Baker University Center, or student union.
Sostarich began his service to Ohio University in 1971, when he coordinated a series of non-credit courses in the arts held throughout campus and taught playwriting classes. He earned a master's degree in theater from Ohio University in 1971, and
graduated with his bachelor's degree in theater from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1969.
The father of two daughters, Sostarich and his wife, Ellen, lives in Athens. He served as a member of the Dairy Barn Cultural Arts Center Board of Trustees and has coached girls' basketball and softball in the city's recreation leagues. He also has volunteered for the United Way of Athens, March of Dimes, O'Bleness Hospital Fund and Athens High School Athletic Boosters.
