As chancellor of Penn State Fayette, Eberly Campus, Emmanuel I. Osagie worked to bring the campus closer to the community and to the world at large.

Under his watch, the campus started new events to draw in the community: an annual Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival; CEO Conversations speakers series; a fundraiser called the Blues and White Gala; and Science Forensics, a program to help underachieving eighth- and ninth-graders.

The campus, which once had no international students, also built international bridges. This year, it has eight international students. It also has developed a partnership with Saveetha University in India so its nursing students can come to Fayette.

After about three years at the helm, Dr. Osagie, who was born in Nigeria and lived in Uniontown, died unexpectedly Tuesday at Uniontown Hospital of complications from an illness. He was 58.

Some of his initiatives are under development or haven't started yet. Two programs -- an associate degree for physical therapy assistants and a criminal justice minor -- will start this fall.

"The campus is committed to continuing his forward vision," said Delia Conti, Fayette director of academic affairs.

Dr. Conti called Dr. Osagie charismatic, dynamic and enthusiastic.

Dr. Conti first experienced his enthusiasm when she interviewed with him for her job a year and a half ago.

"I had a meeting at 6 and it continued past 9 at night. He was so involved in the job, so enthusiastic about the job, time didn't matter," Dr. Conti said.

Susan Brimo-Cox, director of public affairs, who also was hired by Dr. Osagie, said he "challenged people to do their best."

"He was wonderful to work for because you could always have a feeling that you were part of a team that was moving to a significant goal."

In a news release, Penn State President Graham Spanier pointed to the same qualities: "Dr. Osagie was an enthusiastic and charismatic chancellor who brought enlightened leadership to Penn State Fayette."

Dr. Osagie came to the United States for higher education. He graduated magna cum laude and was named the "most outstanding student graduate" at Southern University. He went on to earn master's and doctoral degrees in agricultural economics from Louisiana State University.

He served as associate vice chancellor of the Office of Research and Strategic Initiatives at Southern University and A&M College.

He also worked in various posts at The College of New Jersey, including director of sponsored research; vice provost for research and faculty development; and dean of the business school.

Dr. Osagie is survived by his wife, Pat, a daughter, Kim, and a son, Kevin.

Funeral arrangements were pending.

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