William V. Ackerman  research is in the area of urban/economic geography and focuses on problems in smaller urban and rural areas. He conducts research on economic development, land use, small town revitalization and crime. He has won the Alumni Award for Distinguished Teaching, the Lima Campus Outstanding Research Award, and the Violet Meek Award for outstanding community service. Dr. Ackerman also serves as the Director of the Honors Program at OSU Lima.