On June 13, Chris Fowler began her new position as director of the Ohio University Women’s Center.
Prior to being the director of the Women’s Center, Fowler worked as the interim director of the Office of Multicultural Success and Retention, or OMSAR, at OU, according to a university press release. Before working at OU, Fowler worked as assistant director and then interim director at Iowa State University’s Margaret Sloss Women’s Center.
“Dr. Fowler brings more than 30 years of experience across multiple areas of higher education including residence life, academic advising and multicultural affairs as well as direct experience leading a university women’s center,” Interim Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion, Salome Nnoromele, said. “She is respected on campus as a champion for students and their success, and I am excited to support her as she builds on the strong programming and student support services at the Women’s Center.”
Fowler holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology, a master’s degree in counselor education and a doctoral degree in higher education, according to the university press release.
Fowler said she took the position largely due to her passion for supporting women and providing opportunities for everyone to succeed. Her dissertation focused on female leaders in higher education and what resources helped lead to their success.
According to the Women’s Center website, “The mission of the Ohio University Women’s Center is to act as a catalyst to promote awareness, education, and advocacy about women, gender, and diversity, among faculty, staff and students at Ohio University and its surrounding communities.”
The center provides resources, support and programming that pertains to women in particular. Currently, the center does not have any upcoming events, but students can watch for programming on its website.
Going into the 2022-23 academic year, Fowler said she wants to hold conversations with a diverse set of students to gain an understanding of what they are looking for from the Women’s Center. Additionally, she said she plans to create a strategic plan for the center.
“I’d like to see the Women’s Center span the university, including Athens campus, regional campuses, student life, academic colleges,” Fowler said in an email. “I want students and people across the university to feel welcome and open to work with the Women’s Center.”
In response to current issues, Fowler is working to address any student concerns regarding the supreme court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade through the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling.
She is working to compile a list of resources, as well as support systems, for students. The Women’s Center will also hold conversations regarding how to create a more inclusive atmosphere for students and advance the resources it provides.
Due to only being in her position since June, Fowler has not had much opportunity to talk with students. However, she said she is excited and eager to hear from students this fall.
Currently, the university is holding a national search for an assistant director to work with Fowler. She said she is excited to have another staff person to work with to bring her visions for the Women’s Center to fruition.
“I look forward to collaborating with departments and offices to help provide services for our students,” Fowler said in an email. “The center is open for everyone. I hope you come and check out our space and let us know what we can do for you!”
