President Peede inducted into Ohio Commodores

ASHLAND, Ohio – Dr. Jon Parrish Peede, president of Ashland University and Ashland Theological Seminary, was formally inducted into the Association of Ohio Commodores this fall. He was one of 22 individuals to be recognized this year with the prestigious honor.

The Association of Ohio Commodores comprises a select group of individuals who have been recognized by Governor Mike DeWine with the state’s highest distinction, known as “The Executive Order of the Ohio Commodores.” This honor is reserved for those who have made notable contributions to the state and exemplify outstanding leadership and service.

“It is an honor and privilege to be appointed an Ohio Commodore. Thank you to Governor DeWine and the Executive Committee of the Ohio Commodores for their selection,” said Peede. “The Ohio Commodores have had a tremendous economic impact across the state since 1966, and I’m excited to be a member of this esteemed group.”

Established in 1966 by Governor James A. Rhodes, the Association of Ohio Commodores’ primary mission is to assist in promoting and advancing positive economic development throughout the Buckeye State. It will celebrate its 60th anniversary next year.

The title of Ohio Commodore is inspired by Oliver Hazard Perry, the renowned hero of the Battle of Lake Erie in 1813. The distinction of being named an Ohio Commodore symbolizes a legacy of service, leadership and commitment to Ohio’s progress.

Peede is in his second year as president of AU and has made a significant impact already, as the institution achieved a multimillion-dollar budget surplus, welcomed a freshmen class that was six percent larger than the previous year and recorded the third-largest annual fundraising amount in school history during his inaugural year.

Peede has held leadership positions in higher education and federal agencies for more than 25 years and his impressive credentials include being the former chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities in Washington, D.C. He has served on six federal boards, including the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and the board of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

Peede holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Vanderbilt University, a master’s degree in Southern studies from the University of Mississippi and a doctorate in English pedagogy from Murray State University.