Celebrating 55 Years of the COTC–Ohio State Newark Partnership

One campus. Two institutions. Endless possiblities.

Overview

The anniversary mark with the number 55 and text below that says Celebration of Partnership 1971-2026.Since 1971, Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) and The Ohio State University at Newark have shared more than just a campus — we’ve shared a vision to expand educational opportunities, strengthen our community and steward public resources wisely.

Our cost-share partnership is a rare and remarkable model in higher education. While each institution maintains its own leadership, mission, curriculum, faculty and student body, we share all buildings and general-purpose classrooms, support staff, operating expenses, and key capital investments.

As we celebrate 55 years of collaboration in 2026, our focus remains on transforming lives, building communities and maximizing resources. This partnership is more than a cost-saving measure — it’s a competitive advantage that benefits students, employees and the community.

This college (COTC) coupled with The Ohio State University Newark … will offer an opportunity for every individual in the area to get an education …

J. Gilbert Reese, founding father and trustee emeritus of Ohio State Newark and COTC (via The Newark Advocate, Nov. 6, 1971)

Post

History of the Partnership

Aerial view of the Newark campus in 1971 showing the lone Founders Hall building and one parking lot.

Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) and The Ohio State University at Newark, which began operations in 1957, have shared a unique and enduring partnership since 1971, when COTC gained its charter. 

Post

The Cost-Shared Agreement

The cost-shared agreement details how the Central Ohio Technical College and The Ohio State University at Newark share facilities and personnel as well as the costs associated with each. It also promotes a spirit of mutual respect between the two institutions.

Post

Benefits of the Partnership

Cost Savings

$2 million saved annually through shared operations, staffing and space utilization

Our partnership is rooted in efficiency, equity and shared purpose.

  • Costs are allocated fairly using formulas based on enrollment, space usage or direct expenses. Flexible resource use ensures that fluctuations in enrollment never compromise student services.
  • Strategic plans at both institutions commit to protecting and strengthening the partnership. Key administrators are tasked with the responsibility of protecting the equity of the relationship as well as looking for additional opportunities for expansion.
  • Approximately 80 staff members in joint departments — facilities, advancement, business and finance, student life, library, IT, public safety, and marketing — serve both institutions.

Robust Student Services

5,606 total students enrolled at both institutions in autumn 2025

Collaboration allows our two smaller institutions to realize the economies of scale and associated benefits of a much larger institution.

  • Together, COTC and Ohio State Newark provide a complete spectrum of educational opportunities from certificates and technical degrees at COTC to bachelor’s degrees at Ohio State Newark, including a seamless transition to complete 200-plus majors at Ohio State’s Columbus campus.
  • Students at both institutions have access to holistic support from a shared student life office, including career services, counseling services, disability services, on-campus housing, recreation center and sports, student activities and organizations.
  • A combined $2.9 million in scholarships for COTC and Ohio State Newark students helps more local students access postsecondary education.

Community Support

$75 million in infrastructure upgrades and new campus facilities since 2017 thanks to support from the community

  • Major campus projects like the John and Mary Alford Center for Science and Technology and Louella Hodges Reese Hall were funded through a blend of shared resources and tens of millions of dollars in community support.
  • Our campus is home to signature events, such as the Independence Day Concert and Fireworks attracting an estimated 25,000 people annually, and smaller events for public enrichment.