Written by Katie Kotowski
During a recent visit to Athens for the dedication of Ohio University’s new composting unit, Ohio Department of Natural Resources Director Sean Logan, made some time for interacting with students.Meeting with Master of Science in Environmental Studies students at the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs, Director Logan engaged the students in a lively discussion on environmental policy and programs.
Director Logan was interested in getting to know the students so he asked each to introduce themselves and their current projects and to name the high school they attended.He was impressed by the diversity in the room and the vast variety of economic topics they were interested in.
Director Logan also used the opportunity to get ideas and feedback from the students about the projects being discussed by leaders across Ohio.The students talked about issues of wind development, wildlife regulation, and aqua culture in Ohio giving the Director their ideas and opinions on the subjects.
“As a member of the Governor’s cabinet it’s important to be outside of Columbus as much as possible,” he said.
The students were intrigued by his work with the Governor and ODRN and were eager to ask him questions about the environment, the state of Ohio, and policy formation.Logan welcomed and encouraged their questions. The students were impressed by his openness about the rewards and challenges of working with economic policy.
The group also discussed the role their work at the Voinovich School could play in helping ODRN.Logan stressed the importance of getting out their message about the environment and always being a source of credible information.
Director Logan ended the meeting with a bit of advice for the students about environmental and public policy.
“It’s about communication,” he said. “It all comes down to interpersonal skills.”
Related Links:
Ohio University dedicates new in-vessel composting unit http://www.ohio.edu/outlook/08-09/February/361.cfm