New CECH Dean Lisa Huffman Hosts 24th annual Welcome Back Barbecue
Record turnout marks fresh start under new leadership
On Sept. 13, the University of Cincinnati’s College of Education, Criminal Justice, Human Services, and Information Technology held its 24th annual Welcome Back Barbecue, marking the first time the event was led by CECH’s newest dean, Lisa Huffman.
The barbecue, traditionally a hallmark of the CECH community, took place in the CECH Courtyard this year due to ongoing renovations to improve and expand the Lawrence J. Johnson Lawn.
For Huffman, this debut event was an opportunity to put her own stamp on a cherished tradition while maintaining its spirit of unity and celebration.
The barbecue drew a crowd of around 2,000 students, faculty, staff and alumni — one of the largest turnouts in the event’s history, according to Alecia Johnson, program manager in the Office of the Dean. Attendees enjoyed a buffet that included hot dogs, burgers, baked beans and other barbecue staples served by CECH faculty and staff. The afternoon was filled with conversations, laughter and the warmth of a community coming together to kick off a new academic year.
“I had a wonderful time during my first CECH Welcome Back BBQ — thank you all for your hard work,” Huffman said. “It was great to see our community come together and enjoy each other’s company. We can all get lost in the busyness of our own work, so events where our whole community can come together and relax are truly something special.”
Huffman, who joined UC earlier this year from Texas Woman’s University, emphasized the importance of creating spaces where students, faculty and staff can connect outside of their professional roles. This focus on community building is part of her broader vision for CECH, which aligns with the college’s history of fostering close-knit relationships and a supportive environment. She believes that such events are essential for maintaining a strong, engaged college community.
Former CECH Dean Lawrence J. Johnson in attendance at 2024's CECH Welcome Back Barbeque. Photo/ Daniel Johnson, CECH Marketing
While this was Huffman’s first Welcome Back Barbecue, the event has a long-standing legacy at CECH. It was established in 1999 by former Dean Lawrence J. Johnson and quickly became a signature event that heralded the start of the academic year. Last year’s barbecue served as Johnson’s farewell celebration before his retirement following 25 years in the dean’s role and 34 years at UC, but he made a return visit to campus for this year’s event as a special guest of the college.
Huffman’s leadership is ushering in a new era for the barbecue and for CECH. While the history and traditions of the event are deeply respected, this year’s barbecue highlighted a sense of fresh energy and optimism as the college welcomed its new dean. Huffman’s focus on innovation, inclusivity and student success is poised to build on the foundation laid by Johnson while paving the way for new traditions and initiatives.
For the CECH community, the Welcome Back Barbecue is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of the bonds that define the college. With Huffman at the helm, this year’s event symbolized the college’s commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future, ensuring that the annual cookout continues to thrive as a beloved tradition for many years to come.
Featured image at top: CECH Dean Lisa Huffman and Assistant Dean Teneisha Dyer converse during the annual CECH Welcome Back Barbecue.
All photos provided by Greg Humbert and Daniel Johnson, CECH Marketing.
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