New Faces: University College Welcomes Dale Tampke and Jenny Klein

Tampke takes on Assistant Provost for Retention position in University College

By Ashley Henry | PACE Publications Assistant

This summer Ohio University named Dale Tampke Assistant Provost for Undergraduate Retention in University College and he is well underway in his new job. In his new position, Tampke is coordinating retention programs throughout the university to improve freshman retention as well as all undergraduate retention.  He is working with the academic colleges and representatives from Student Affairs to establish a cohesive, coordinated approach to retention.

“The excellent work (already being done) on the first-year experience has established a firm foundation from which we can build a campus-wide retention plan,” Tampke said to The Athens Messenger, “ I’m excited to be a part of that effort.”

Currently Tampke is working on specific programs to help freshman, and other students, on academic probation. Tampke said he would like to take a proactive role instead of passive role with helping students.  “Right now we have programs in place to helps students after they’re in academic trouble, but I would like to find a way to anticipate at risk students and have action ready to help them instead of reacting when trouble starts,” he said.

Tampke assumed his new position over the summer, before which he was Associate VP for Finance and Administration.  In additional to his position’s responsibilities, Tampke also teaches UC 115, a class that prepares students for college success, and he is an academic advisor for University College students.

Tampke was first hired by Ohio University in 1994 as Director of Housing and was one of the founders of the residential learning communities through which students take classes together and enjoy out-of-class activities together as well.

Jenny Klein has joined the University College staff as an academic advisor.  She will be assisting with the opening and operating of the new Help Center, which will be in the new Baker Center.  The Help Center is a university-wide retention center designed to assist students with academic and advising problems.

Previously, Jenny lived in Columbus, Ohio where she worked as the Director of Residence Life at Ohio State.  She said she has always enjoyed working with and serving as an advocate for students.  Jenny’s husband is a math professor at OU, and their two daughters attend East Elementary School.  She enjoys biking, reading, running, playing violin and piano, and singing.