Capital You from Capital University

September 24, 2025

Capital University transforms lives by empowering an inclusive community of learners through engaging academic, co-curricular, and professional experiences.

Gerhold Lecture Features Russian-Ukrainian journalist

Capital will welcome Evgeny Kiselev, Russian-Ukrainian journalist and leader of the Russian opposition to the Putin regime, as the featured speaker in the Mary Catherine Gerhold Annual Lecture in the Humanities.

 

Wednesday, Oct. 15

3 p.m., Student Q&A

7:30 p.m., Lecture

“From the Russian TV Show Host to the Anti-Putin Oppositionist: My Life as a Journalist”

Huntington Recital Hall, Capital University

 

Kiselev, who now lives in Spain due to persecution in Russia, was a Russian-Ukrainian television host, political analyst, and author of a Russian-language YouTube channel bearing his name. He began his journalistic career in the mid-1980s and co-founded NTV, then Russia’s largest independent private television channel. An award-winning journalist, he has interviewed prominent politicians, including U.S. presidents Nixon, Carter, and Clinton, as well as world leaders such as Gorbachev, Yeltsin, and Thatcher. Due to the opposition to Putin, Kiselev was ousted from NTV in 2001 and persecuted as a persona non grata, prompting a move to Ukraine in 2008. After Russia launched a full-scale war against Ukraine, Kiselev was blocklisted in Russia as a “foreign agent.” In January 2025, he appeared in a CBC documentary titled “Putin’s Dark Rise to Power.”

 

The lecture is free and open to the public. To learn more, go to https://www.capital.edu/student-life/arts-and-culture/annual-events/gerhold-lecture-series-in-the-humanities/. The Gerhold Lecture was established to promote peace and human understanding through higher education. 

Arts and Culture

University Theatre Tickets Available


Capital University Theatre begins its 2025-26 season with shows set in France and an encore production of one of its favorite shows from the past 10 years, “A Very Long Engagement.

 

Adapted from the French novel and film, the production incorporates contemporary music, poetry from WWI, and historical images to create a timeless piece that comments on the horrors of war, the search for love, and the enduring power of human connections. The play is compiled and directed by Capital Professor Dan Dan Heaton and adapted from the film by Jeunet and novel by Japrisot.

 

Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Oct. 2-4

8 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 5

2 p.m.

 

Tickets are free with a current Capital I.D. For non-Capital audience members, tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. To reserve seats, call the box office at 614-236-7174.

Fat Tuesday Debs Season Opener


The Fat Tuesday Debutantes, Capital’s improvisational comedy group, will perform “Liberté, Egalité, Fat Tuesdé.” Admission is free.


Tuesday, Oct. 7

10 p.m.

Huntington Recital Hall

OMT Scenes Production

 

Capital's Opera and Musical Theatre Department presents "No One is Alone," an entertaining and emotional scenes production including scenes from “She Loves Me,” "Falsettos,” “Anastasia,” "'Be More Chill,” “Hunchback of Notre Dame,” and more!

 

Cabaret Theatre, Student Union

Friday, Oct. 17, 6 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 19, 2 p.m.

 

For tickets, go to https://www.simpletix.com/e/capital-omt-presents-no-one-is-alone-tickets-237307#smtx-click. Capital students, faculty and staff can each receive one free ticket by using the promotional code CAPFAM.

Where Can Your Education Take You?

Join representatives from the Office of Global Education and others for the Study Abroad Fair! Meet students who have studied abroad, chat with study abroad providers, and discover how you can earn credits while traveling.


Wednesday, Oct. 1

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Student Union Lobby


This is your chance to explore opportunities, ask questions, and start planning your global adventure. Follow our Instagram for more information.

Free Student Bus Transportation Via COA App

Capital University has historically worked with the Central Ohio Transit Authority to provide students access to the COTA bus system free of charge. In August, Capital updated its partnership with COTA to using the Transit app for students to access their COTA pass. All Capital students who wish to access and use the COTA system free of charge will need to opt into the program and be registered with the Office of Student and Community Engagement.

 

To opt into the Capital University COTA Educational Pass Program, please complete the following form below and follow the steps to download the Transit app.

 

https://capital.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8hQsJjqJKCGApme

 

Get Started with the Transit App

  1. Download the Transit app on your smartphone and create an account using your capital.edu email address.
  2. Click buy on the Transit app home screen and follow the prompts to create your COTA account. Don’t worry about adding a payment method.

 

Scan and Go

  1. To plan your trip, open the Transit app and enter your destination.
  2. Head to your stop with your phone ready. Make sure your brightness is turned up.
  3. Select “ride now” at the bottom of the Transit app home screen. You won’t see a balance.
  4. Scan the QR code on the validator on your right, next to the front windshield.

 

All questions about the Transit app and the COTA Educational Pass Program can be directed to the Student and Community Engagement at sce@capital.edu.

Student and Community Engagement Save the Dates!

  • Sept. 29-Oct. 3 – Homecoming T-Shirt Design Competition
  • Oct. 1 – AIM Beyond is an event being held on the first Wednesday of every month. This event is an opportunity for Community Engagement on campus.
  • Oct. 20-24 – National Transfer Student Week
  • Oct. 20-24 – Homecoming Week
  • Oct. 25 – Homecoming Tailgate and Game

 

Stay tuned for more details on the Stall Talk and in Engage!

Reminders from Mail Services

Amazon Lockers

Amazon lockers are available in several locations around campus.

  • Select the specific locker location when placing your order.
  • You will receive a pickup code once your package is delivered to the locker.
  • Scan the barcode in the delivery confirmation email or enter your code provided by Amazon.
  • You have 3 days to retrieve your package, or it will be returned to the hub. 

 

For more information and to select your pickup location, visit Amazon's information page.

 

Addressing Mail to Capital Students

Address mail to Capital students using the student's mailbox number, not to their residence hall.

The proper address format is:

Student Name & Box #

Capital University

745 Pleasant Ridge Ave

Columbus OH 43209-2427

Join Us on YouTube

We’re working to elevate Capital University’s YouTube channel to better showcase the incredible stories, events, and creative work happening here. We hope more faculty, staff, and students will engage with the videos we’ve been creating recently – including CapStories conversations, Recaps, and new work to come. Your views, shares, and overall continuous support will help us in building a channel that reflects the energy and talents of our community. You can subscribe to the channel by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/capitaluniversity.

Capital Stories

Connecting Holocaust Memories to Human Rights Research


When Leo Franck ’26, history major, walked into a workshop at the Anne Frank International Youth Network Conference this summer, he didn’t expect to see his research come to life. Surrounded by peers from around the world, he was asked to rank fundamental human rights in order of importance. The debate was spirited, reflecting each country’s struggles and priorities. But when it came to the very first right, every group agreed: All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.


For Franck, who had just spent months immersed in archives studying how the Holocaust and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt shaped the creation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the moment was electric.

Trinity Lutheran Seminary

Celebrate, Worship, and Learn at Trinity Days


The Capital community is invited to participate in Trinity Days, featuring the Rev. Leila Ortiz, bishop of the Metro DC Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, as the keynote speaker.

 

Oct. 23-24

Trinity Lutheran Seminary

 

A special screening of the film “1946: The Mistranslation that Shifted a Culture” will be held on Friday, Oct. 24, at 1 p.m. in Huntington Recital Hall. The screening is free and open to the public.

 

“1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture” is a feature documentary that follows the story of researchers Kathy Baldock and Ed Oxford, who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible in 1946. It chronicles the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University that unveil astonishing new revelations, and casts significant doubt on any biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice. Featuring commentary from prominent scholars as well as opposing pastors, including the personal stories of the film’s creators, 1946 is at once challenging, enlightening, and inspiring.

 

For more information about Trinity Days, including registration for the Thursday sessions, go to https://www.capconnect.org/2025-trinity-days.

Join the Provost for Lunch

Faculty and staff are invited to Lunch with the Provost! The provost buys you lunch and you supply the conversation. This is an opportunity to meet new people and chat with old friends. Come when you can. Leave when you must.

 

Tuesday, Oct. 14

Thursday, Nov. 20



Main Dining Room (by the north windows)

12 to 12:50 p.m.

School of Nursing 75th Anniversary

Honoring 75 Years of Nursing Excellence in Central Ohio


Since its founding, Capital University’s School of Nursing has educated generations of compassionate, highly skilled professionals who continue to make a lasting impact in healthcare every day.

School of Nursing 75th Anniversary

Luncheon


Thursday, Oct. 23

11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Franklin Park Conservatory, Wells Barn 

$75 per person

Registration deadline: Friday, October 10

Rooted in Purpose – Connected by Care – Leading the Future of Nursing Panel


Thursday, Oct. 23

3:30 to 5 p.m., reception to follow 

Schumacher Gallery

Fourth Floor, The Blackmore Library at Capital University

Level Up Your Career with a Capital MBA

Capital University’s redesigned MBA program is built for early-career professionals and recent graduates – no business background required. Whether you studied business, biology, art, or anything in between, an MBA can complement your academic background and give you a competitive edge. This innovative, one-year hybrid program blends flexible evening classes with hands-on, real-world learning to help you build the skills, confidence, and connections to accelerate your career.

 

Program Highlights

  • Open to All Majors: Designed for students from any academic background – no business degree required.
  • Fast-Track Option: Complete your MBA in as little as one year. Or take two years if you prefer a slower pace.
  • Networking Opportunities: Participate in case competitions and exclusive networking events with local employers.

 

Click here for more information, or apply today. Feel free to also reach out to our MBA recruiter, Brody Lehman, at blehman13@capital.edu.


The next cohort begins summer 2026, with an application deadline of April 15, 2026. Learn more and meet the MBA team at a virtual information session.



Tuesday, Oct. 21, 12 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 18, 12 p.m.

Make a Meaningful Impact with Capital's New MSW

Capital University’s Master of Social Work program is designed for individuals who are passionate about creating change and supporting communities. Whether your background is in psychology, education, business, or another field, the MSW program equips you with the clinical skills, advocacy tools, and real-world experience needed to become a confident, ethical, and effective social work professional. Offered in a flexible, hybrid format, our program supports both full-time students and working professionals who are ready to advance their careers in social services, healthcare, mental health, and beyond.

 

Program Highlights

  • Flexible Format: Hybrid course delivery with evening and weekend options to fit your schedule.
  • Field Experience: Gain hands-on training through supervised placements in diverse community settings.
  • Open to Everyone: Options for students from all backgrounds, whether you have a BSW or not.


Click here for more information, or apply today. Feel free to also reach out to our MSW recruiter, Brody Lehman, at blehman13@capital.edu.


Learn more and meet the MSW faculty at a virtual information session.


Wednesday, Oct. 22, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 6 p.m.

In the News

Rob Barnhart

Aug. 29

“New diversion pilot program aims to give first-time offenders a 'Big Break'”

https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/new-diversion-pilot-program-aims-to-give-first-time-offenders-a-big-break-columbus-ohio-news-central#

ABC6

 

Dan Kobil

Sept. 15

“Local officials facing backlash from Charlie Kirk social media posts”

 https://spectrumnews1.com/oh/cleveland/news/2025/09/15/charlie-kirk-social-media-ohio

Spectrum News 1

 

Dan Kobil

Sept. 16

“Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center investigating employee’s social media post”

https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/columbus/ohio-state-university-wexner-medical-center-investigating-employees-social-media-post/

 

“New Capital University program addresses national social worker shortage”

Sept. 11

https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/columbus/new-capital-university-program-addresses-national-social-worker-shortage/

NBC4i

 

Jenny Wondracek and Nicholas Sanctis, Law School student

Sept. 22

“California issues historic fine over lawyer’s ChatGPT fabrications”

California lawyer's ChatGPT use is why courts want AI regulation

CalMatters

KUDOS

Joe Grant, interim dean of the Law School, was profiled in the September issue of Mahogany magazine. Read the story on pages 34-35 at https://issuu.com/mahoganycolumbus/docs/july-aug_emmanuel_anthony.

Required Employee Compliance Training

All employees are being assigned our Fall 2025 “All Employee Compliance Training” through the online Safe Colleges/Vector LMS, Higher Education tool. Please watch your email inbox (and/or your spam folder) for this link.


This bundle consists of three mandatory courses:

  • Ohio Campus Act (SB94) – 12 minutes
  • Title IX and Sexual Harassment Prevention for Employees – 28 minutes
  • Protection Against Malware – 17 minutes


All employees have through Dec.1, 2025, to complete the coursework.


If you have questions regarding this coursework or compliance expectations, please contact Debbie Gaitten, HR director, at dgaitten@capital.edu.


Thank you. We appreciate your support.

New Hires

Kayla Banjo, Nursing

Mary Bishop, Nursing

Erica Brown, Student and Community Engagement

Emily Chovanec, Nursing

Nicole Cox, Women’s Soccer

Stacey Daughenbaugh, Nursing

Edward Dunlap, Music

Brian Fitts, Education

Kama Foley, Enrollment and Advancement

Avery Hart, Women’s Soccer

Jessica Hesket, Nursing

Mary Kight, Development

Zack Langer, Music

Krissy Machamer, Education

Nikki Mesnard, Law

Evan Nunez, Football

Onur Ozkaynak, ESL

Tausha Queen-Moon, Nursing

Kearstin Schweitzer, Football

Sarah Sed, Nursing

Heather Sever, Business

Sidney Sheridan Student Accounts

Jake Smith, Music

Alexandra Southard, Education

Mario Suarez, Women’s Soccer

Drive with Pride – Comets Pride

Choose to support Capital University by proudly displaying license plates with Capital’s name and Comets logo. Plates may be purchased through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. For each plate, the Bureau will return a portion of the fees ($25) to Capital’s Ackermann/Mattern Scholarship fund. The $25 is a tax-deductible charitable gift. If you would like a tax receipt, please send proof of purchase to University Advancement, 1 College and Main, Columbus, OH 43209-2394, or fax to 614-236-6147.

Professional Development Day

The Climate and Culture Committee invites all faculty and staff to the second annual Professional Development Day.


Thursday, Oct. 9

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.


The Climate and Culture Committee invites all faculty and staff to the second annual Professional Development Day. Join colleagues from across campus for a full day of learning, collaboration, and growth. This year’s sessions will focus on practical tools, innovative strategies, and shared conversations to support our collective work and well-being.

Cap Central

Cap Central is faculty and staff's go-to platform for internal communications, collaboration, and resource access at Capital. Designed to simplify workflows and enhance connectivity, it supports seamless collaboration across our campuses, making it easier for employees to stay informed and work together efficiently.

Brand Your Email


In an effort to help create identity, recognition, and reputation, we have developed a professional, uniform, branded email signature that all Capital employees are encouraged to adopt. Showcasing Capital’s fonts and colors, the template will allow you to choose the standard logo design or designs specific to Trinity Lutheran Seminary and the Law School. The template, along with instructions for using it, can be found on Cap Central.


Photography at Capital


Pixieset: Explore a curated collection of photos capturing the energy, beauty, and life at Capital, inside the classroom, athletics, student life, and more.

 

Photo Policy: This policy governs all photography used by Capital for marketing and communications. It ensures consistent quality, brand alignment, and legal compliance. It applies to all internal departments, faculty and staff, and external vendors working with IMC.


Need something specific? Contact rmohr@capital.edu for photo requests.

Upcoming Events

Criticism and Culture Community of Practice


Wednesday, Sept. 24

4 p.m.

BLIB 110


Discuss the Signature Learning Program Learning Outcome: Students analyze, contextualize, and engage with human cultures. Strategize with faculty and staff how students meet this learning outcomes in Fine Arts cognate courses, UC 220, and 320 classes as well as via co-curricular opportunities and experiences in students’ majors.

Friday Writing Group

(or, Coffee and a Few Lines!)


Friday, Sept. 26

12 p.m.

CMC 220


Meet with others to devote an hour to your writing. Hold yourself accountable and support your colleagues. Bring your favorite caffeinated beverage and your writing project.

Assessment for Programs with External Accreditation


Monday, Sept. 29

4 p.m.

Ruff Learning Center 104


Accredited academic programs will continue with regular assessment practices this academic year. Non-accredited academic programs and Student Experience Areas and Program will engage in program review and will be contacted separately for meetings.

In The Community

Smoke & Fire Festival


The CapFam is invited to a sizzling experience at the Smoke and Fire Festival. This event, sponsored by the City of Bexley, combines the mouthwatering flavors of barbecue with the infectious rhythms of live music. Local teams showcase amazing BBQ flavors as they compete for the Bexley BBQ Championship belt, and Blue Spectrum will offer a tantalizing back drop of Blues, Rock, R&B, Soul, Pop, and Jazz! Learn more.


Saturday, Sept. 27

5 to 7 p.m.

Schneider Park, 853 Village Creek Drive, Bexley

Free

Capital University | Trinity Seminary at Capital University | Capital University Law School

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