James A. Rhodes State College: A History of Growth and Opportunity

James A. Rhodes State College, a public community college located in Lima, Ohio, has a rich history rooted in providing accessible and relevant education to the region. Sharing a campus with The Ohio State University at Lima, Rhodes State has evolved from its origins as a technical training center to a comprehensive college offering a wide array of programs and services.

From Lima Technical College to Rhodes State: A Timeline

The seeds of James A. Rhodes State College were sown in the late 1960s when community leaders recognized a growing need for technical education to support local businesses and industries. In 1969, Penta Technical Institute (now Owens Community College) established instructional programs on the Lima campus.

1971: Inception as Lima Technical College

Lima Technical College was officially chartered in 1971 as a state, public-assisted associate degree-granting institution of higher education. In June 1971, the Allen County Technical Institute District was formed upon recommendation by the Ohio Board of Regents. The new institution began functional operation in July 1971 under the interim auspices of The Ohio State University. In September 1971, the college received its charter and began operating under its own Board of Trustees. Over five hundred students enrolled during the first year, marking a strong start for the institution.

Growth and Expansion

From its humble beginnings offering nursing classes to a small group of students, the college steadily expanded its offerings. By the mid-1990s, enrollment had grown to over 2,500 students, and the college offered a wide variety of courses and programs.

2002: Renaming to James A. Rhodes State College

As Lima Technical College grew, the need for a name change became evident. On March 1, 2002, the Lima Technical College Board of Trustees voted to change the College’s name to more accurately reflect the scope and diversity of its courses and services to West Central Ohio and beyond. Effective June 24, 2002, the college was formally renamed James A. Rhodes State College, honoring former Ohio Governor James A. Rhodes. Rhodes played a major role in developing Ohio's two-year colleges.

Academic Programs and Resources

Rhodes State College offers nearly 100 associate degrees and career technical programs, catering to a diverse range of student interests and career aspirations. The college places a strong emphasis on health-related programs, which are highly successful in preparing students for careers in the health field. Computer and engineering courses are also popular options.

The college is committed to ensuring its programs are aligned with the evolving needs of industries, incorporating internships, cooperative education experiences, and hands-on learning opportunities to enhance students' practical understanding.

Library Resources

The college library houses over 80,000 research materials, and students can request items from OSU libraries.

Transfer Agreements

The college has articulation agreements with a variety of four-year schools to ensure that credits transfer to colleges and universities.

Campus and Facilities

Rhodes State College shares a 565-acre campus with The Ohio State University at Lima. The concept of a single student body on the Lima Campus carries over to the use of facilities.

Key Buildings:

Technical Education Laboratory building: Built in 1970 and renovated in 2008, this building supports technical education programs and houses faculty offices, Central Duplication, Security, Testing Center/Accommodative Services, and specialized laboratories for Law Enforcement, Radiographic Imaging, Medical Assisting, Education, and Human Service programs. It also houses The Justin A. Borra Center for Behavior Services, which features a counseling center, a group therapy room, a student lounge, and student collaboration rooms equipped with hyflex technology.
Public Service Building: Dedicated in 1993, this building houses the administrative offices.
James J. Countryman Engineering & Industrial Technologies Building: Dedicated in 1996, this building provides additional laboratory and classroom space.
Keese Hall: Originally the Information Technology Building (opened in Winter 2004), it was renamed in honor of retired president Earl Keese. This building houses the business and information technology programs and several administrative offices. The Keese Hall Multipurpose Center opened in 2014.
Borra Center for Health Science: Opened in August 2021 in downtown Lima, this 50,000 square foot center houses the nursing, respiratory care, EMS, physical therapist assistant and occupational therapy assistant programs. It is named in honor of Pier C. Borra and Renee A. Borra.
Ar-Hale Family Foundation Advanced Manufacturing Learning Center: Opened in May 2024, this center provides students with hands-on experience in modern robotics and manufacturing technology.

Student Life and Support Services

Rhodes State College strives to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for its students. The college offers numerous resources and services to assist students in their academic journey, such as tutoring programs, career counseling, and a variety of campus organizations and clubs.

Open Admissions and Placement Testing

The college has an open admissions policy, meaning that any student with a high school diploma or GED will be accepted. Students may be asked to take a COMPASS placement test to determine whether they will need to take remedial courses.

Financial Aid

Students applying to the college are eligible for federal grants and student loans. There are also a number of grants and scholarships offered by the state of Ohio, the college itself, and other outside organizations. The college's office of financial aid helps students find other grants and scholarships. Students applying for financial aid should turn in their documentation by February 15th.

Student Activities and Resources

The college has a newsletter, The Communicator, and regularly sponsors What’s On Wednesdays programs for student entertainment. The college also has an open gym and a child care center for students who are parents.

Athletics

A member of the NJCAA, the school participates in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference.

Read also: Explore JCU's History and Programs

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