Berg welcome: 2022-23 brings new faculty, appointments

Along with the Class of 2026 and a strong returning class of students, Heidelberg is getting ready to welcome several new faculty members to campus for the start of the 2022-23 academic year in less than two weeks.

Joining the faculty ranks this fall are the following:

Dr. Jiachun Hong – Assistant Professor of Communication and Media. Jiachun earned his B.A. in International Politics from Peking University, his M. Phil. in Communication from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and his Ph.D. in Mass Communication from Southern Illinois University. He has extensive experience in all aspects producing and directing documentaries.
Dr. Desirae Matherly – Associate Professor of English. Desi earned her B.A. in Philosophy and English from East Tennessee State University, and her M.A. and Ph.D. in Creative Writing and Nonfiction from Ohio University. She comes to Heidelberg from Tusculum University.
Mr. Rodney Miller – Director of Bands and Instructor of Music. Rod earned his B.M.E. from The Ohio State University and his M.M.E from Cleveland State University. He comes to Heidelberg with over 30 years of experience as Director of Bands at the high school level, the last 15 with Port Clinton City Schools. You may recognize his voice as he has been serving as the voice of the Marching Student Princes.
Dr. Otto Shaw – Assistant Professor of Education. Otto earned his B.A. in Mathematics from Capital University, his M.S. in Mathematics from Ohio University, and his Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from Ohio University. He comes to Heidelberg with teaching experience at Zane State College and Capital University.
Ms. Jingyi Su -- Assistant Professor of Computer Science. Jingyi earned her B.S. in Software Engineering from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, her M.S. in Computer Science from Bowling Green State University, and is ABD in Data Science from Bowling Green State University. She comes to Heidelberg with professional experience at Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, Heartdub and Microsoft.
Ms. Kayela Tidrick – Instructor of Sport Management. Kayela earned her B.S. in Education, Sport, and Exercise Science from the University of Akron and her M.Ed. in Sport Management from Ashland University. She joined Heidelberg as the Director of Campus Recreation Services and Assistant Athletic Director in 2012.
Dr. Brandon VanNess – Assistant Professor of Chemistry. Brandon earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Chemistry from Miami University (Ohio), Wright State University, and The Ohio State University, respectively. He comes to Heidelberg with professional experience at Morehead State University and Wright State.