New Associate Dean to Lead Honors Program at UC Blue Ash

Robin Lightner has been making a positive impact at the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College since she joined the faculty as a psychology professor in 2001. As the new associate dean of Academic Affairs for the college, she has the opportunity to make an even bigger impact by leading a variety of important academic initiatives.

Lightner officially started in the new role on July 1, following the retirement of Marlene Miner. Lightner earned her undergraduate degree in psychology from Northern Kentucky University and her master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky.

During her time at UC Blue Ash, she has been recognized with the Distinguished Teaching Award; published numerous articles; earned a grant to study at Harvard’s Mind, Brain & Behavior Institute; and co-wrote the book

Developing Faculty Learning Communities at Two-Year colleges: Collaborative Models to Improve Teaching and Learning

. Lightner has also served as chair of the Department of Behavioral Science since 2012.

As Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Lightner will oversee the college’s 14 academic departments and nearly 50 degree and certificate programs, which include two bachelor’s degrees. She comes into the role as the college continues to grow its academic offerings and explore more opportunities for baccalaureate programs.

“I am excited to work on making the college, where I have loved teaching for the past 16 years, an even better place to learn and work,” says Lightner. “I am confident that we are moving in the right direction; our quality initiative and strategic plan are packed full of programs and services to help students meet their educational goals.”

UC Blue Ash Dean Cady Short-Thompson is delighted with Lightner’s appointment, noting, “Robin has been one of the highest-performing faculty members in the college and I’m confident she will inspire our faculty, staff, and students to perform at the highest possible level.”

Lightner’s top priorities this year include leading preparation for the next accreditation review by the Higher Learning Commission, refining a number of student support programs, and implementing a new Honors Program that builds on the rigorous academics provided across all courses and offers top students the opportunity to learn with other high-achievers.

UC Blue Ash College is a regional college within the University of Cincinnati. It offers one of the best values in higher education with access to a nationally recognized UC education in nearly 50 degrees and certificates, as well as tuition that is about half of most colleges and universities. The college is located on a scenic 135-acre wooded campus in the heart of Blue Ash, Ohio. To learn more, call (513) 745-5600, visit us online at www.ucblueash.edu, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.