On Tuesday, April 9, 2013, Hocking College sponsored the first annual College Readiness Forum with a focus on readiness in reading and writing. One of the major goals of the forum was to provide an opportunity for collaboration and sharing of ideas to better meet the academic needs of the underprepared college student.

The event took place at the Inn at Hocking College and provided a lunch prepared and served by the Culinary Arts students. More than 50 high school and college educators came prepared to discuss problems and solutions for incoming college students. A total of 14 high schools and four colleges were represented.

Presenters included Dr. Sherrie Gradin from Ohio University English Department, Deb Nickles from Ohio University Chillicothe campus, Kathy Pittman with Hocking College ABIT faculty and Tami Hartman from Eastland-Fairfield Career Center.

The event was organized by Arts, Business and Information Technology (ABIT) Dean Jeff Daubenmire, ABIT Associate Dean Sarah Parker-Clever, English faculty Sue Fletcher and Professional Development Director Linda Deeds. It also received support from Ohio University Appalachian Writing Project.