Former professor directing on a higher level
Ruth Charnay
One of the newest additions to OCCC’s administrative ranks is Ruth Charnay.
She has assumed the responsibilities of Communication and the Arts department chair.
Charnay is new to her position, but not to OCCC.
She served as a theater professor for five years. Charnay said the transition from faculty to administrator has been smooth.
“I love it,” she said.
She does admit that she misses the student interaction, acting classes and play directing, but she views her new position as directing on another level.
She said she hopes to improve the department and further the development of local fine arts awareness.
She believes a lot of students would attend more fine arts events if they were better informed.
Charnay has been succeeded by Theater Professor Brent Noel, who said he is happy to have her on staff.
Ruth still being here has been a very valuable assistance,” Noel said.
Arts and Humanities Dean Susan VanSchuyver said the reason she selected Charnay for the job was the fact that she has a lot of experience in similar fields.
Charnay served as the Curriculum Chair at OCCC and did an excellent job, VanSchuyver said.
Charnay received her bachelor’s degree in speech and theater, and her master’s degree in theater from Oklahoma City University.
She is currently working on her doctorate from Texas Tech University.
Charnay said she would like to develop an arts calendar.
She said students could be more informed and aware of arts events happening at OCCC.
Charnay thinks that this could be beneficial to keep others informed, not only to the students but also to the surrounding community.
