Dr. Martha Kline appointed dean of campus and community engagement at OHIO Zanesville

Martha Kline, Ph.D.

Ohio University has appointed Dr. Martha Kline as dean of campus and community engagement at OHIO Zanesville, effective Aug. 1, 2026.

Kline steps into the role following two years as interim dean of campus and community relations at OHIO Lancaster, where she helped guide the campus through a period of growth, investment and strengthened community partnerships. Her leadership has been defined by collaboration, student-centered decision making and a commitment to creating opportunities that benefit both students and the communities Ohio University serves.

When Kline assumed the interim dean position in 2024, she embraced the mission of regional higher education and the important role campuses play in transforming lives. Working alongside faculty, staff, students and community partners, she championed initiatives that enhanced the student experience while expanding educational opportunities.

Among her most significant accomplishments was helping advance academic and facility improvements that support the future of health care education. She played a key role in expanding instructional space for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program while helping move forward new teaching spaces for associate degree programs in Nursing and Respiratory Therapy. Pending final approval, these programs are expected to launch in Spring 2027, increasing access to career-focused education in high-demand fields.

Martha Kline and Ohio Chancellor of Higher Education Mike Duffy — Dr. Martha Kline and Chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education Mike Duffy

Kline also strengthened OHIO Lancaster’s connection to the arts through partnerships with The Lancaster Playhouse, the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio and Ohio University’s Chaddock + Morrow College of Fine Arts. These collaborations created new educational, cultural and performance opportunities for students and community members.

Her leadership extended beyond academics. She supported campus improvement projects that included enhanced building security, new water bottle filling stations, refreshed classrooms and common spaces, and funding efforts for the upcoming renovation of the Wagner Theatre. Together, these improvements helped create a more welcoming, modern and student-focused campus.

Throughout her tenure, Kline prioritized building meaningful relationships across Fairfield County. She worked closely with community organizations, business leaders and workforce partners while supporting the continued growth of the Engineering Technology Lab and workforce certificate programs offered through the Fairfield County Workforce Center. These partnerships expanded educational pathways for students while addressing regional workforce needs.

"Dr. Martha Kline has been an incredible asset to OHIO Lancaster and the Regional Higher Education community," said Dr. Lewatis McNeal, vice provost for regional higher education. "Her ability to bring people together, recognize opportunities and lead with authenticity has made a meaningful difference for our students, employees and community partners. We are excited to see her continue that work at OHIO Zanesville."

For Kline, leadership has always centered on relationships.

"Serving the OHIO Lancaster community has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career," Kline said. "I am thankful for the faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners who welcomed me, supported our shared goals and worked together to make great things happen. I look forward to carrying those relationships and experiences with me as I begin this next chapter at OHIO Zanesville."

Martha Kline is shown participating in a holiday parade in Lancaster — Dr. Martha Kine participated in the Lancaster Holiday Parade,

Kline’s connection to Ohio University and OHIO Lancaster spans three decades. She joined the OHIO Lancaster community in 1996 and has served the campus in a variety of roles, including coordinator for the University Division, faculty chair and associate professor of chemistry. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her dedication to student learning and academic excellence, receiving the Phi Theta Kappa Professor of the Year Award in 2005 and an Apple Teaching Award from Ohio University’s Center for Teaching Excellence.

Before joining Ohio University, Kline served as an adjunct instructor of chemistry at Santa Fe Community College, a research associate at the Center for Drug Discovery in Gainesville, Florida, and a postdoctoral fellow at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, British Columbia. Her background as an educator, researcher and academic leader has shaped her commitment to providing students with meaningful opportunities to learn, grow and succeed.

Martha Kline is shown with OHIO studetns, faculty and staff as they stand in a group on a staircase at Ohio University

Kline earned a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of North Carolina and a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Ohio University. Her deep connection to the university, combined with her experience in teaching, leadership and community engagement, has guided her approach to serving students and strengthening regional higher education.

McNeal has served as interim dean of campus and community engagement at OHIO Zanesville since 2025. During his leadership, McNeal worked closely with faculty, staff and community partners to strengthen strategic priorities, enhance collaboration across the region and position the campus for continued growth and long-term success.

As she begins her tenure, Kline will work to further advance Ohio University’s mission of student success, academic excellence and meaningful community engagement across the region.