Connection Center

What is the Connections Center?

The Connections Center is a one-stop resource dedicated to helping students overcome barriers that may impact their success. Whether students need assistance with food, hygiene items, transportation, housing resources, financial challenges, or connections to campus and community services, our team is here to help. We work alongside students to identify solutions, provide essential resources, and connect them with the support they need to stay focused on achieving their educational goals.

Students and staff who need immediate support, please complete the resource request form  (you may need to sign in with your MTC account information if prompted)

Find additional food pantries. 

What does the Student Resource Navigator (SRN) do?

The SRN is a free and confidential resource for students, employees, and their families. We are responsible for providing on-site, face-to-face assistance and effective solutions to individuals confronted with challenges or personal situations. The SRN can also be reached by phone, text, or email. The SRN can provide direct advice and can also be a conduit to social services that provide fast relief for many issues, including but not limited to:

• College life navigation
• Childcare options
• Transportation
• Housing
• Family challenges
• Professional attire/clothing
• Substance abuse/stabilization
• Financial literacy/budgeting

How do I submit a request for assistance in finding resources?

Students can submit the following Student Resource Request Form or reach out to the SRN directly at SRN@mtc.edu or 567-908-7564 (call or text).  You can expect a response within one business day.

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Food Pantry & Hygiene Supplies

Our mission is to make healthy food readily available to all students who need it. Marion Technical College students have full access to the Connections Center Food Pantry, a fully stocked resource designed to help students meet their basic food needs while pursuing their education. The pantry offers a variety of shelf-stable foods, fresh items when available, snacks, and meal essentials to support students facing food insecurity or simply needing a little extra assistance. Our goal is to ensure that no student has to choose between buying groceries and continuing their education, creating a welcoming and judgment-free space where students can access nutritious food and support with dignity.

Donations for the hygiene cabinet are greatly appreciated. The following items are needed:

• Body wash
• Soap
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Deodorant
• Razors
• Shaving cream
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrushes
• Floss
• Tissues
• Toilet paper
• Combs/brushes
• Hair ties
• Feminine hygiene products
• Laundry detergent
• Dryer balls
• Sunscreen
• Chapstick

Join Us in Creating Opportunity

When you support the Connections Center, you’re not just giving – you’re investing in persistence, potential, and purpose. You’re helping students rise above life’s challenges and pursue their goals with dignity and strength. When students graduate, they are not only bettering themselves; they are changing their family tree. Let’s build a future where every student has what they need to succeed.

How to Donate: To make a donation or learn more about the partnership opportunities, contact the MTC Foundation:

Call: 740-386-4203; Email: foundation@mtc.edu

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Staff 

Rachel McCall Connections Center Coordinator/Disability Services Coordinator Student Success and Engagement mccallrl@mtc.edu 740-386-4179 Marion Campus BR 143A

Meet Rachel, our Connections Center Coordinator and REACH Liaison! Rachel is here to help connect students and families with resources, answer questions, and provide support whenever it's needed. As the Ohio REACH liaison, she works with students who have experienced foster care or kinship care to provide wrap-around services to help them succeed.

Chelsea Dingus Student Resource Navigator Student Success and Engagement dingusc@mtc.edu 567-908-7564 Marion Campus BR 143A

Meet Chelsea, our Student Resource Navigator! Chelsea is here to help students and families connect with the resources and support they need to be successful both in and out of the classroom. Whether you have questions, need help finding school or community resources, or just aren't sure where to start, Chelsea is here to listen, provide guidance, and help you navigate the next steps. She is committed to making sure every student feels supported and has access to the tools they need to thrive.