Janelle Baltputnis

Janelle Baltputnis came to The University of Akron in Fall 2000 after graduating from West Branch High School as one of six valedictorians in her class. She will graduate from Akron in May 2004 with a B.A. degree in Journalism and a tag degree in creative writing and psychology.

At UA, Janelle has participated in many organizations and activities. She is currently a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority, the news editor of UA's newspaper, The Buchtelite, and a member of the Association for Women in Communications. In the past, Janelle was a volunteer for the Conversation Partners Program and the Ronald McDonald House, and an active member of residence hall government.

Born and raised in Salem, Ohio, Janelle grew up in a predominantly rural setting. She was a member of the Circle 62 4-H Club for 10 years and she still volunteers for Columbiana County youth programs. In 2000, Janelle reigned as queen of the Columbiana County Fair. She enjoys the simplicity and quietness of rural life so much that after graduation she hopes to become a writer for a farm publication.

Janelle is the oldest of the three children of Janis and Diane Baltputnis. The Baltputnis family has lived in Salem for 23 years.