Staff at Clark State College in Ohio are strengthening a culture of care and connection through Caring Campus, with plans to expand work to faculty in 2027 through continued support from ECMC Foundation.
As part of Caring Campus’ rural network expansion initiative funded by ECMC Foundation, the college began initial implementation with staff in 2025. The new grant will bring Caring Campus to as many as 18 rural colleges across the nation.
“As a new president coming to Clark State, one of the things that was immediately evident to me was the college’s intentional commitment to creating a truly student-centered environment,” Clark State College President Dr. Evon Walters said. “Caring Campus has helped translate that commitment into everyday behaviors and meaningful interactions.”
One example is Clark State’s Open House, held the week before classes begin. In addition to traditional Welcome Week activities, students can explore campus, meet faculty, print class schedules, receive IT support, and get one-on-one assistance from staff.
“No matter the age of our students, they are often nervous about coming to school and worried they won’t fit in,” Mellanie Toles, Clark State Caring Campus liaison, said. “Once we welcome them to campus, help them feel more comfortable in the environment, and show that we’re here to help, they feel more encouraged and ready to start their journeys.”
Students are also embracing the Caring Campus culture they see modeled. Trained student workers in the Admissions Office help set the tone by warmly greeting their peers and offering assistance.
Toles presented at the inaugural Caring Campus Conference in November 2025 about Clark State’s Caring Campus efforts, including how she incorporated Caring Campus into a capstone project for her master’s degree at Wittenberg University.
The Caring Campus Conference 2026: Developing a Legacy of Impact is happening Nov. 11-13 in Nashville.
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