Beth Longenecker, D.O., chosen to found new COM

I am writing to inform you that Beth Longenecker, D.O., has been selected to serve as founding dean of a new college of osteopathic medicine at University of Northern Colorado.

While Beth’s presence will be deeply missed at Ohio University, we are honored that one of our own has been chosen for this exciting opportunity. We look forward to the ways in which her leadership will enrich and grow Colorado’s osteopathic community.

During her time as dean of the Heritage College’s Athens campus, Beth made community outreach a priority, facilitating the expansion of the college’s community health services to meet local needs during the pandemic. She oversaw the opening of our student-run free clinic and spearheaded a partnership with Buckeye Healthcare that resulted in a $750,000 grant to expand community nurse navigator programs. The relationships that she has helped to foster between health entities across southeast Ohio will continue to serve the Heritage College, our students and our communities for many years to come.

In Beth’s absence, Tracy Shaub, D.O., has agreed to serve as interim dean for the Athens campus, effective May 15. Tracy is a beloved family physician and dedicated medical educator with nearly 27 years of service to the Heritage College. Over the past decade, she has provided sound leadership as chair of our Department of Primary Care while serving an instrumental role in the opening of our Cleveland campus. Tracy is a proud Heritage College graduate and physician mentor who embodies the college’s mission of compassionate care. I have every confidence that her extensive service has positioned her for impactful leadership on the Athens campus. 

Please join me in welcoming Tracy to her new leadership role. We also thank Beth for her contributions to the Heritage College and wish her well as she embarks on a new professional endeavor.