Dr. Genesis Downey is Honors Program Director and Professor of English at Owens Community College, where she has served students since 2002. A nationally recognized educator, she is known for creating engaging learning experiences that challenge students to think critically, communicate effectively and become thoughtful, civically engaged citizens.

In 2026, Dr. Downey received the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Recognition, one of the nation's highest honors for community college faculty. The award recognizes educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching, make a lasting difference in students' lives and are deeply committed to their colleges and communities. She also received Owens Community College's 2025 Presidential Teaching Award, the College's highest faculty honor, recognizing her quality and innovation in teaching, commendable service to the College and profession, and exceptional commitment to student success. Colleagues praised her strong connection to students, her ability to help them grow as critical thinkers and communicators, and her mentorship of fellow faculty. She is especially recognized for her creativity and collaboration in assessing student learning and academic programs, as well as her support of both new adjunct faculty and experienced instructors working with honors students.

Dr. Downey teaches courses in composition, literature, creative writing, fiction, popular culture and interdisciplinary studies. Throughout her career, she has been committed to fostering intellectual curiosity, encouraging meaningful dialogue and helping students discover the confidence to express their ideas through writing.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toledo, a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Michigan and a Doctor of Philosophy in American Culture Studies from Bowling Green State University.

As an educator, mentor and academic leader, Dr. Downey exemplifies Owens Community College's mission of changing lives through the power of education and continues to inspire students and colleagues through her dedication to teaching, scholarship and service.

The Conversations podcast is revisiting a compilation of a few of our favorite conversations that bring a local perspective from the past year. Each guest brings a unique viewpoint, but together they tell a larger story about what makes northwest Ohio so special. They remind us that strong communities are built when institutions, leaders and people invest in one another. It's a belief that shapes so much of the work we do at Owens.

The lineup:

• Vince DiPofi, SSOE CEO (episode originally aired March 12, 2026)
• Neil MacKinnon, Rossford Mayor (episode originally aired February 12, 2026)
• Dr. Brian Treece, President and CEO, Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation (episode originally aired November 13, 2025)
• Dr. Veronica Motley, Retired Superintendent, Sylvania Schools (episode originally aired April 9, 2026)
• Jami Williamson, Owens Professor, Therapeutic Services (episode originally aired October 9, 2025)

Five years ago, Dr. Dione D. Somerville became president of Owens Community College. Since then, Owens has continued building on its long history of serving students, employers and communities across Northwest Ohio.

In this special episode of the award-winning Conversations podcast, 13abc Anchor Kristian Brown turns the tables, interviewing Dr. Somerville about the lessons she has learned during her first five years as president, the evolving role of community colleges and what lies ahead for Owens.

From workforce development and healthcare education to student success and community partnerships, this conversation reflects on the progress of the past five years - and the opportunities ahead.

Episode Guest: Dr. Dione D. Somerville, President, Owens Community College

Host: Kristian Brown, Anchor, 13abc