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M Nellis

President Emeritus and Trustee Professor at Ohio University

M. Duane Nellis is an accomplished American educator and university administrator, recognized for his extensive contributions to higher education. He served as the 21st President of Ohio University from 2017 until 2021, after which he transitioned to the role of President Emeritus and Trustee Professor in the Geography Department at the university.

Educational Background

Nellis was born on July 26, 1954, in Spokane, Washington. He graduated from Montana State University with a bachelor's degree in earth sciences and geography in 1976. He continued his education at Oregon State University, earning both a master's degree (1977) and a Ph.D. in geography (1980) .13

Academic Career

Before his tenure at Ohio University, Nellis held several significant positions:

  • President of Texas Tech University (2013-2017)
  • President of the University of Idaho (2009-2013)
  • Provost and Senior Vice President at Kansas State University
  • Dean of the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University .13

His research primarily focuses on geographic information systems and remote sensing, leading to over 160 articles and reports and more than 20 books. Nellis has received numerous accolades for his work, including being named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Explorers Club .123

Contributions as President

During his presidency at Ohio University, Nellis implemented several initiatives aimed at enhancing academic quality and student engagement:

  • Launched the OHIO Honors Program
  • Created the position of Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion
  • Oversaw significant campus improvements, including new learning spaces and facilities .23

Nellis's leadership was pivotal in elevating Ohio University's status to an R1 Very High Research Activity institution by 2021 .23

Retirement and Current Role

After stepping down as president in June 2021, Nellis focused on teaching within the Geography Department. He officially retired at the end of the fall semester in December 2024 but continues to hold the title of Trustee Professor .24 His contributions to academia have been recognized with various awards, including being named a Fellow of the American Association of Geographers in 2023 .3

In summary, M. Duane Nellis has had a distinguished career marked by leadership roles across multiple universities and significant contributions to research and education in geography.

Highlights

Dec 24 · en.wikipedia.org
Duane Nellis - Wikipedia
Dec 17 · ohio.edu
OHIO honors its 21st President on his official retirement
OHIO honors its 21st President on his official retirement
May 13 · ohio.edu
M. Duane Nellis announces presidential transition - Ohio University
M. Duane Nellis announces presidential transition - Ohio University
Jul 1 · impactohio.org
Dr. M. Duane Nellis - Impact Ohio
Sep 14 · ohio.edu
Ohio University Office of the President

Related Questions

What are some of the key achievements during M. Duane Nellis' presidency at Ohio University?
How did M. Duane Nellis contribute to the development of the OHIO Honors Program?
What initiatives did M. Duane Nellis introduce to enhance diversity and inclusion at Ohio University?
Can you provide more details about the research projects M. Duane Nellis has been involved in?
What are the notable buildings or facilities constructed during M. Duane Nellis' tenure at Ohio University?
M Nellis
M Nellis, photo 1
M Nellis, photo 2
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Location

Athens, Ohio, United States