Owens Foundation board adds 2

FINDLAY — Carol Anderson and Elias Hajjar have joined the Owens Community College Foundation Board of Directors. Anderson, an Owens alumna and Toledo native, earned her bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Toledo and is currently head of global human resources at Geoforce, Inc. She previously held human resources leadership roles in several industries. She has also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Lucas County Children Services. She is a member of the Oregon Economic Development Board. "Owens plays a critical role in providing accessible, workforce-focused education that creates real opportunity for students at every stage of life," Anderson said. "I feel a responsibility to give back to an institution that strengthens our regional economy and opens doors for so many. Through my service, I hope to support scholarship growth, strengthen community partnerships and help ensure the foundation continues to expand access and resources for students who need it most." Hajjar, a hospitality management graduate of Ohio State University and Toledo native, is the founder and owner of Hajjar Hospitality, a catering company that offers onsite and offsite events with full-service staffing and customized planning. He is also the founder and owner of several beloved Toledo-area restaurants, including Poco Piatti, Koala Berry Frozen Yogurt and Stone Cut Bistro. He looks forward to drawing on his entrepreneurial experience to support and strengthen Owens' culinary program. "I'm looking forward to bringing my years of experience and expertise to the students at Owens," Hajjar said. "One of my passions is cultivating workplace cultures and mentoring staff while creating opportunities for people to succeed. I'm dedicated to building meaningful connections through the hospitality industry." "Carol and Elias each bring a rare combination of professional depth and genuine commitment to community, and that is exactly what drives the foundation's mission forward," said Kelle Pack, Owens Foundation executive director and vice president of institutional advancement. The Owens Foundation supports access, innovation and excellence in education while celebrating outstanding service and ethical and visionary leadership. Since 2002, donors have contributed more than $11 million in gifts and grants, with more than $5 million distributed to the college for programs and capital support and $3 million distributed to students for scholarships. For more information, visit owens.edu/foundation.