THE URBANA UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS
URBANA UPDATE
Together: Dream, Plant, Grow Winter 2011
Stay Connected with Urbana! 2|Urbana Update | Winter 2011
What’s inside
Mission: Urbana University shall offer a liberal arts education in a small college environment emphasizing student learning through individual attention, excellence in instruction, career-oriented programs, and critical reflection on moral and ethical values.
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URBANA UNIVERSITY President Stephen B. Jones, Ph.D.
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Vice President for Institutional Advancement James Thornton
Commencement
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Campus News
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Homecoming
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Planting for the Future
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Student Spotlight
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Alumni Spotlight
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Class Notes
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From the Field
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Alumni Relations
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Spring Sports
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Director of University Relations and Governmental Affairs Christina Bruun-Horrigan Director of Marketing Mary Anne Barr Melissa Closser Director of Alumni Relations Kat Steiner Contributing Writers Christopher Anders Joe Besecker Brittany Bradner
The Urbana Magazine for Alumni and Friends is published three times a year by Urbana University, 579 College Way, Urbana, OH 43078 www.urbana.edu / 800-787-2262 POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: Urbana Magazine, Office of Alumni Relations 579 College Way Urbana, OH 43078
16 SEND US YOUR NEWS! Alumni, have you recently been promoted? Have you received a professional or community service award? Do you have any other news you’d like to share? Please let us know. We value your submissions and want to keep in touch with you. E-mail your news to alumni@urbana.edu, or update your information online at www.urbana.edu/alumni; or call the Alumni Office at 937-484-1282.
Urbana University admits students of any race, color, religion, ethical or national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the University. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, and other University-administered programs.
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Urbana University held its 116th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, December 11, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. in the Warren G. Grimes Center gymnasium. One hundred seventy-three degrees were conferred: twentysix masters, one hundred ten bachelors, and thirty-seven associate degrees. William Taylor of Springfield and James Nathaniel Wright of Piqua were the Class of 2010 Valedictorians. The keynote was provided by Mr. Clancy Brown, renowned actor. President Stephen B. Jones presented the Silver Medal Award to community leader and former U.S. Representative Clarence J. "Bud" Brown Jr. and Joyce Eldridge Brown in recognition of their service to the University. 4|Urbana Update | Winter 2011
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Campus News LEARNING TO CREATE WITH THE KNOWLTON SCHOLARSHIP In 2010, the Austin E. Knowlton Foundation founded the Austin E. Knowlton Memorial Scholarship to support undergraduate and graduate students showing interest or pursuing a career in architecture. As a business man from Bellefontaine, Ohio, scholarship preference is to residents of Logan County. Also known as “Dutch”, Knowlton trained as an architect, but spent most of his career in the construction industry.
PRESERVING OUR BEAUTY
His company designed, financed, and built more than 160 university buildings on every major Ohio college campus, including Urbana University. Overall, he designed more than 600 significant construction projects throughout Ohio and the Midwest. Urbana University is grateful for funding that advances higher education and plans to honor Knowlton’s name.
More Campus News...
THROUGH TREE CAMPUS USA Urbana University remains dedicated to the continuous enhancement of the campus and seeks to maintain a learning environment complemented by diverse landscape. Trees will be inventoried on campus by a Tree Campus USA committee. Tthe University will benefit by ensuring that our campus will be protected, enhanced, and stand as a symbol of our commitment to nurture the gifts of nature. The University’s curricular plans include weaving ecological literacy and free enterprise-based sustainability into the fabric of our liberal arts core. The University is developing majors in environmental studies, environmental education, and leadership in sustainability
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Jessica Friermood & Katie Rupley
Ohio Magazine featured Urbana in a the November issue cover story as the magazine's selection of Best Hometown in southwest Ohio. The magazine's editors selected one city as Best Hometown for 2011 from each of five regions in the state. Factors that impact selection include: community spirit, education, attractions, celebrations and events, health and safety, business environment, and culture and heritage. In addition to the featured coverage in November, Ohio Magazine highlighted Urbana in its "Best of Ohio" edition in January and will again put the spotlight on Urbana in the June issue, which will feature travel opportunities. Information about Urbana will be posted on the Ohio Magazine w e b s i t e a t h t t p : / / ohiomagbesthometowns.com/Main/ southwest.aspx
Two students from Urbana University received commendations from the Secretary of State for their outstanding leadership. The commendation recognized Jessica Friermood for her leadership as secretary of the Student Government Association, president of the Student Activities Committee, and a member of the UU Royal Blues Band. She is a senior from Mt. Victory, Ohio and daughter of Roxanne and Dwight Friermood. Katie Rupley’s commendation recognized her leadership as president of the Student Government Association. She is also a student ambassador, resident assistant, and captain of the women's golf team. She is a senior from Toledo, Ohio and daughter of Joyce and Edward Rupley. Congrats to Jessica and Katie!
Campus News CHRISTMAS ON CAMPUS Urbana University welcomed hundreds of Urbana area children and community members to a winter wonderland of holiday characters, ice skating, choral singing, and Santa Claus during the University's 4th Christmas on Campus Tuesday, November 30. Started in 2006 as a way to give back to the community and for students to celebrate Christmas before heading home for the winter break, the event has evolved into the largest community-centered event on campus. Alumnus Mitch Joseph (’08) stated, "It's a great way to reach out to the community and a great way to kick off the Christmas season." Christmas on Campus is a unique opportunity to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas with the entire Urbana community—students, faculty, staff, alumni, families, and most of all—the children. Mark Chepp, Urbana University art instructor and professional artist, had his spring 2010 exhibit at Keny Galleries listed by the Columbus Dispatch as one of the best art exhibits of 2010.
CACTUS BOWL It's the second straight year the Blue Knights have been well represented in the Cactus Bowl, a D-II showcase. This year Urbana University's Travis Brisco ('10) and senior Bill Nickell played a pivotal roll in the 10th annual NCAA Division II Cactus Bowl held at Javelina Stadium on the campus of Texas A&M-Kingsville, the Red Storm and Urbana University's Travis Brisco knocked off the Blue Devils and UU's Bill Nickell by a score of 28-6 on Friday night. More than 4,200 people and pro scouts from nearly every NFL team attended.
DAYTON DRAGONS ALUMNI BASEBALL OUTING: APRIL 9 Urbana University’s Office of Alumni Relations invites you to watch the Dayton Dragons play the Bowling Green Hot Rods on Saturday, April 9, at 7:00 p.m. Plenty of parking is available near Fifth Third Field (approximately $5 in lots). Respond quickly as space is extremely limited! Reserve your seats by contacting the Office of Alumni Relations at 937-484-1282 or at ksteiner@urbana.edu no later than March 30. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis.
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UU celebrated Homecoming 2010 October 8 and October 9. More than 3,200 alumni, students, friends, and community members cheered the Blue Knights to victory. New events this year included:
Knight Time Hours at Catfish Jones Alumni Beer Garden 5K Family Fun Run Activities at the Johnny Appleseed Museum and Educational Center Homecoming 2011 will take place on October 15, 2011. Mark your calendar and plan to reunite with friends!
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E: R U T U F TH E R O F G PLANTIN AST P E H T SEEDS OF E NT S E R P A ND
Original renovations of Barclay and Bailey Halls began in 2001, after a $1,000,000 campaign to implement a museum emphasizing the life of historical figure and Swedenborg missionary John (Appleseed) Chapman. With financial support from members of the Johnny Appleseed Society, Emeritus President Francis Hazard Ph.D., and Educational Center and Museum Director Joe Besecker, the buildings were transformed into the historic gem originally conceived, but had been hiding under the vines, dirt, and broken glass. 10|Urbana Update | Winter 2011
Early in 2011, the Appleseed Education Center and Museum will undergo an upgrade. A grant from the Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission; matching funds from the Johnny Appleseed Foundation Trustees and Johnny Appleseed Society Members were raised. The project will transform the Center into a much improved presentation of the life and legacy of John Chapman.
The museum interests children and adults, as it tells the story of John Chapman through interpretive text panels, artifacts, pictures, music, and discovery. It serves as a clearinghouse of information on Johnny Appleseed, welcoming researchers and providing consulting services. The Appleseed Educational Center and Museum also publishes books about John Chapman’s life and times. Each semester Urbana University offers a two semester hour online class on the life of John Chapman.
Currently, the Appleseed Educational Center and Museum hosts visitors from all over the nation. Naturalists, environmentalists, orchardists, horticulturists, foresters, historians, and teachers are just a few of the special interests groups or individuals who celebrate the legacy of John Chapman. For questions and information contact Joe Besecker at: jbesecker@urbana.edu 937-484-1303 Urbana Update | Winter 2011| 11
Student Spotlight Heather Stratton ‘12
Dreaming of Beauty
Bellefontaine, OH Major: English
GIVING A GIFT After receiving ten free trees from the Arbor Day Foundation, junior Heather Stratton, ’12, decided to donate the trees to beatify Urbana University’s campus. “Emphasizing
sustainability and
making nature a part of campus, I thought that the campus might enjoy the trees,” said Heather. She started talking with Campus Services about enhancing the University’s already lush landscape. The conversation sparked discussion with fellow students, which evolved into a four-year plan with others to create a tranquil place for students to find peace.
STARTING WITH A VISION Heather immediately thought of Urbana University when the opportunity to give crossed her path. Prior to the gift, Heather was especially impacted during her college experience by the death of two University students, Andia Shishler and Tricia Wirth. “We spent about three hours just sitting and talking about this and I was touched by the solemnity of the occasion. Through conversations with Dr. Stoltz and friends, we had the idea to make a reflection garden on campus centering around “The Rock.” The vision was a concept and we eventually started asking, ‘Can we put this idea out there?’” The development of the reflection garden is still uncertain, but recognizing the vision and desire to plan for the future is important.
GROWING A SOLID FUTURE For the past three years, Heather has been an Honors student involved with Knights Write. With a warm smile, she will tell you that when she stepped on campus during her college search, she took a deep breath and felt at “home.” Without a doubt, Heather’s future is just as solid as the trees she has donated. We hope to see Heather reach her goal to obtain a Ph.D. in English and become a faculty member at her alma mater.
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Alumni Spotlight Paul Price, ‘49
Rooted in Urbana
Urbana, OH
KIND WORDS
Major: English
Even after 60 years, Paul Price keeps Urbana University in his heart. He is a well-known community member, a family man, and dedicated alumnus who speaks highly of a University he loves.
“It’s a good University with good
teachers, good classroom work, and the school is good for the community,” said Price. “I always speak kindly of the University; it was a good start for my life and I have met some great people because of it”.
PLANTING A FUTURE Price estimates that there were about 50 students enrolled during his time at the University between 1947 and 1949; about half were local and the other half from out of town. He recalls that there were two “fellows” from Honduras, one from Costa Rica, and one from Texas; that was the farthest that students came from”. The students lived in Oak and Browne Halls, ate in Browne, and took classes in Barclay and Bailey; that was pretty much all there was on campus. At the time he recalls about eight professors at the college, the “president and superintendent” also taught classes. The classes offered were the basics; Price recalls taking English, public speaking, history, Latin, and algebra, and he said that they were pretty demanding. He remembers his struggle as a college student juggling class, baseball, and farm work.
GROWING TOGETHER As the University celebrates its 160th year anniversary, recognizing alumni who have been strong pillars at Urbana is an honor. Price has been a continuous giver and has given back what he could. He was part of our alumni association board for many years throughout the 1960s and 70s and served as treasurer on the alumni association advisory board. He has also maintained a connection to the University by contacting and visiting. Price says he has continued to give back to Urbana because, “Well you know, I think it was a good school and I felt a moral obligation to do my little part. In life there are things that you have a duty to support.” By: Brittany Bradner Urbana Update | Winter 2011|13
Class Notes
KEEPING CONNECTED WITH ALUMNI AND FRIENDS
1930s Hugh Smith , 1939, passed away March 11, 2010.
1940s Martin Gainer, 1940, passed away on August 17, 2008. John Keller, 1949, passed away on August 9, 2008.
1950s Kathleen Jenkins, 1959, passed away on April 12, 2009 at the Sterling House in Urbana.
Ethel Hassel, 1974, passed away. David Matthews, 1974, performs with KickN-Flava, an Ohio based seven piece contemporary jazz/ R&B group. Stephen Harris, 1975, passed away on June 22, 2010.
Neil Moore, 1989, passed away in a single plane crash in Delaware County on July 29, 2010.
Larry Hoelscher, 1975, serves as the Executive Director at Trustaff.
1990s
Dean Hoke, 1975, joined Ankabut in Oct. 2010, It is the United Arab Emirates’ National Research and Education Network (NREN). It offers educational and research networks connectivity to other education networks around the world. This is similar to Internet2 in the USA.
1960s
Rita Larson, 1975, passed away from lung cancer on February 19, 2009.
Charlotte Hupp, 1961, passed away on November 1, 2009 in the McAuley Center in Urbana.
David Packer, 1976, passed away on April 1, 2009 at the Ohio State Medical Center.
Betty Murray, 1963, passed away on November 1, 2010.
Robert Anderson, 1978, passed away on October 25, 2008.
Jonathan Tafel, 1966, retired from the Ohio Board of Regents on August 29, 2008.
Don Wilson, 1979, September 9, 2008.
Cheryl Long, 1968, passed away on March 13, 2009.
1980s
C. David Kouse, 1969, passed away on October 11, 2008.
1970s Daniel Eikenberry, 1972, passed away on December 21, 2009 in his home after a ten month battle with cancer. Richard Roby, 1972, passed away on August 4, 2008 in Riverside Hospital. Russell Algren, 1973, passed away on July 12, 2010. Joseph Sweeney, 1973, passed away. Frank Drain, 1974, was named Ohio HiPoint Career Center’s 2010 Outstanding New Career and Technical Education Teacher; he is teaching in Hi-Point’s Aviation Occupations Satellite Program after 27 years in the aviation industry.
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Rebecca Hoffman, 1989, is the Deputy Warden at the Ohio Reformatory for Women. She earned her MSW, from OSU in 1996.
passed
away
on
Douglas Erb, 1981, passed away on October 23, 2009. Raymond Miller III, 1981, owns REM Automotive, and shares “Our business has tripled in 2010. We deal in Sub Prime advertising and have nationwide accounts.” Lambert Eigbedion, 1985, lives in Columbus, OH and is interested in connecting with UU alumni; you may contact Lambert via e-mail at eigbedion@aol.com. James (Jim) Parker, 1986, is celebrating his 16th year as an adjunct professor at UU for the College of Business; friends may contact Jim at trend@ctcn.net. Nicia Esterline, 1987, passed away on October 27, 2008. Jon D. Myers, 1987, serves as a County Commissioner for Fairfield County, OH. Elaine Sonmor, 1987, announces twins! Blake and Finn on January 6, 2009.
Mark Brown, 1991, passed away on March 21, 2001. Derek Dozer, 1994, is the human resource manager for Clow Water Systems in Coshocton, OH. He is a township trustee. Derek and his wife Jodi have three children; Drake (11), Mason (9) and Rileigh (7). Chantelle Rose, 1995, was selected as a Blue Angel Key Influencer and flew with the Blue Angels before the Dayton Vectren Air Show in 2010. Christy Edwards, 1996, has two children; Michaela (11) and Ethan (7). Timothy Souders, 1990, is the head women’s basketball coach for CulverStockton College in Canton, MO.
2000s Katha Dill, 2000, retired from Graham Local Schools. Husband Doug Dill ‘71 is also retired and they celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on January 25, 2009. Yvette Grice, 2000, shares her success story “as a cancer survivor after 2 years of treatments. With a grim prediction of only 1 year to survive stomach cancer, it was announced by my oncologist that I am cancer free based on my scans and doing exceptionally well. God has been my source of strength through it all and I give Him total thanks and praise”.
Martin Radosevic, 2000, lives in Kansas, MO with wife Lori, and three boys (Martin Jr., Maguire and Maddux), works as an Advanced Wound Care Product Specialist. Founded the Flag Football League of Kansas City (www.FFLKC.com), a flag football league for K through 6th graders. The league has grown from 21 teams to 41 teams three year. Martin and Lori also run a baseball ticket brokerage service (TheBestBaseballTickets.com).
Brian Baum, 2001, was selected the Ohio high school Division V co-coach of the year. Sara Fox, 2001, is a kindergarten teacher at Franklin Monroe, K-3 team leader, and Data Coordinator for the District’s participation in Ready Schools Initiative. She and husband Michael welcomed son, Michael Jr., born on November 20, 2008. He joins sister Libby (3), both pictured below.
Jonn Rapp, 2004, earned his master in education from Nova Southeastern University. Married to Valarie (Trostel) and they have a daughter, Annalise Marie (Annie). Jonn teaches 7th grade social studies at Indian Lake Middle School and also serves as an assistant varsity football and weight lifting coach. He is also part owner of DRT Landscaping. He and Valarie live near Huntsville, OH.
Eric Latham ‘08 married Jackie Masur ‘08 in August 2010 and was promoted to assistant manager at Franklin Univeristy Bookstore in November 2010. UU wedding party guests included Mitch Joseph ‘08, Rachel Ellen Matthews ‘08, Paul Wendling ‘08, Dee Clemons ‘08 and Tara Durland ‘08. Picture below.
Shirley Vogel, 2004, passed away on May 19, 2009. Franco Harden, 2005, passed away on June 14, 2009, after a battle with leukemia. Kelly (Zeller) Robison, 2005, married Allan Robison on July 17, 2010. Benjamin Rowe, 2005, married Andrea (Householder) of Covington, OH on May 17, 2008. In fall 2008, Benjamin wrote “we recently purchased our first home in august ‘08. I also coached Troy Select girls soccer team for 3 years, (2 as head coach) before they moved on to play in the high school”.
Justin McCulla, 2008, and his wife Ashley welcomed their son Carson on June 8, 2010.
Kyle Wunderlich, 2005, and Jessica (Yunker) Wunderlich ‘07 relocated to Indianapolis, IN in summer ‘10 as part of a job relocation with Cintas Corporation. Kyle is currently the general manager for a Cintas facility and Jessca is a preschool teacher at Nativity Catholic School. Kathy Milam, 2001, serves as the Director of Alumni and Parent Relations at Wilmington College. Jonathan Steward, 2001, is a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Peter Duffey, 2002, was promoted to vice president at Home City Federal Savings Bank after numerous years as assistant vice president. Darla Moore, 2002, is currently a 7th grade language arts teacher at West Liberty Salem and an adjunct instructor with Clark State Community College. Graduated with a Master in Education in Classroom Teaching, May ‘02. Earned the National Board Teaching Certification in the area of language arts.
Amy Messer, 2007, married Jared D. Evans of Piqua on September 19, 2009 in the Westville United Methodist Church. She is employed by the Champaign County Municipal Court and Jared is employed by the Champaign County Sheriff’s department. Jeffery Sasala, 2007, married fellow alumnae Julie Metzger ‘07 in June 2008. Susan Weber, 2007, passed away from ALS on January 16, 2009.
Monica Miller, 2008, serves as a Human Resources Associate at ARAMARK Healthcare in Texas. Mary Anne Barr, 2009, promoted to Director of Admission at Urbana University in November 2009. Kandalyn Stevenson, 2009, released a musical album with her sister. Group name is Nyla and album is "Now or Never" and was released in December 2010.
Nicholas Guidera, 2008, married Lindsey McCulla ‘09 in July of 2010.
Stay Connected!
Update your information online at www.urbana.edu/alumni
John Keller, 2003, passed away on August 9, 2008. Natalie Landon, 2003, and husband Tanner ‘02 welcomed daughter, Sophia on November 4, 2008. Jennifer (Londergan) Reynolds, 2003, received a master in rehabilitation counseling severe disabilities in June 2006. Married Bryon on August 12, 2006. Logan Cole Reynolds was born July 6, 2007 and joins brother Jordan Riley Londergan.
McCulla & Guidera wedding party including Tom Woodruff ‘07, Mike Bowers ‘06, Rick Schnipke ‘08 (MBA ‘09), Justin McCulla ‘08 Chris Beisner ‘07 and Eric Miller ‘08. Ceremony music was performed by Josh Murray ‘07.
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From the Field Women’s Basketball The women’s basketball team posted its 4th straight winning season with 15+ wins in 2009-10. In head coach Rob Phillips’ 16 seasons at the helm of the Blue Knights’ women’s basketball program, he has already accumulated more than 250 career victories
Volleyball The Urbana University volleyball team experienced a 9-win turnaround during the 2009 season, the Blue Knights posted 16 wins. The team traveled to Fairbanks, Alaska for the Nanook Classic. It was the first time in school history that an Urbana team played in “The Last Frontier.”
Men’s Basketball Behind second-year head coach Jeff Porter, the Blue Knight men’s basketball program posted their first winning season in 13 years in 2009-10. Urbana experienced an 8-win turnaround in just their 2nd season of NCAA Division II competition. Urbana was at its best at home in the Warren G. Grimes Center, where they posted an 8-2 record.
Men’s Soccer The Blue Knight men’s soccer team has posted 90 wins in its 11-year history. Under head coach Nick Roberts, from England, Urbana posted 3 straight 6-win seasons during the program’s transition to NCAA Division II. Roberts has utilized his international experience to bring in recruits from all over the world. The current roster boasts players from 6 different countries, and English forward Stuart Brown finished the 2010 season ranked in the Top10 in goals scored with a school-record 17 goals.
Baseball The Blue Knight baseball team has won an average of 28 games a season over the last 5 years. After the 2008 season, junior pitcher Jaeson Hudnall became the first Blue Knight to sign with a major league organization when he signed with the Kansas City Royals.
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From the Field
GLVC Welcomes UU for Football in 2012 Behind Defensive All-American Travis Brisco (‘10), the Urbana University football team won its final 3 games in 2010, finishing 5-6 overall. The team’s 2-1 record in the Great Lakes Football Conference was good enough for a 3-way tie for the conference crown. The Blue Knights have now won 5 or more games in 6 of the last 7 seasons.
In the Fall of 2010, the Urbana University Athletic Department announced that the Blue Knight football program will join the Great Lakes Valley Conference as an associate member for football. The GLVC, which will begin sponsoring football as the league's 18th championship sport in 2012, will have nine footballplaying members for the league's inaugural campaign.
The first GLVC football schedule will feature an eightgame slate among nine institutions. Established in 1978, the GLVC is the largest NCAA Division II conference in the country with 17 member institutions in five Midwestern states. For more information about the GLVC and each conference member, please visit www.glvcsports.com.
THE MAN WITH THE MIKE High above the field or on the sidelines near a microphone, Urbana University announcer, the Honorable Roger Wilson, Judge of the Court of the Common Pleas, is a campus fixture. A 1988 member of Urbana University’s Athletic Hall of Fame, Wilson has announced for basketball since 1965. Sports Information Director Chris Anders Jr. stated, “The most incredible thing about him is his memory and quick wit. When I first introduced myself to him, he immediately knew who I was because he was the announcer here when my dad (Chris Anders, ’82) played basketball at Urbana in the late 70’s. Thirty years had passed, but he could immediately recount stories from my parents’ time at Urbana like they happened yesterday.” In a time when change is a constant, UU appreciates Wilson’s 55 year commitment and loyalty to our Blue Knights!
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News from Alumni Relations It’s true. I was mesmerized by the deer on campus. They added to the beauty and serenity of campus and made me feel like I had found a home, rather than a place to work. With that, it’s no surprise that I consistently hear stories of how our graduates think of Urbana University as their home. The notion of “home” is a sentiment expressed by many alumni when speaking about their Urbana University experience. Some alumni, like Paul Price (’49) state that the moment they walked on campus there was a sigh of relief, overcome by the sense of community and belonging. Others, like Michelle Hertz (’04), tear up when reminiscing about former faculty and staff members who aided them on their journey. Then there are those like Lambert Eigbedion (’85), Angie Fudge (’03), and Amy Kemp (’00) who simply appreciated the convenience of the admissions and registration processes. It is very clear to me that alumni want to connect with each other and campus. So, what are we doing to enhance this connection? In months ahead, we will send alumni and friends of Urbana University information through Alumni Relations about campus news, alumni events, and opportunities to engage. I encourage you to update contact information, submit class notes or life celebrations, attend an event so that we can maintain communication and, most importantly, I hope you will share your Urbana University story with others. We would love to hear how you’re benefiting from your Urbana education and would be happy to give you details on the newest family of deer near Williams Hall!
JOIN THE ALUMNI AND FRIENDS ASSOCIATION The Alumni Association will help you maintain your connection to the Urbana network by providing services and benefits for members. In recognition of your membership, the Urbana University Alumni Association extends an invitation to stay involved with your alma mater. In so doing, you help foster enhanced programs and services to your University, our students, and importantly our network of alumni. Alumni Association membership benefits and opportunities include invitations to alumni events, access to our Student Success Center, University Library, and Career Services, rental of UU facilities for meetings, weddings, receptions at a discounted cost, and more! Go online to join or for more information contact Kat Steiner at ksteiner@urbana.edu or call 937-484 -1282. 18 |Urbana Update | Winter 2011
NOMINATE AN ALUMNUS
ALUMNI E-NEWS
Three Arches Alumni Award: This award recognizes outstanding achievements in a chosen career field and outstanding commitment and service to their community.
Staying connected to your alma mater is an important step in making the most of your Urbana experience! To help you do that, we offer a free alumni newsletter, sent to your email account every month. Quick and easy to read, Alumni eNews is a great way to find out what’s happening at Urbana, learn about upcoming events, and to see what other alumni are doing around the world. To provide us with your email account visit us online at www.urbana.edu.
Three Arches Distinguished Services to the Alumni Association Award: This award recognizes the exceptional commitment and service to the Alumni Association. Nominations for these awards can be made throughout the year by filling out the nomination form online. All nominations will be reviewed and then brought before the Alumni Advisory Board for approval. If you have any questions please contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 937484-1282 or alumni@urbana.edu.
Connect online!
Upcoming Events February 16 March 15 March 16 March 19 March 22 April 1 & 2 April 7 April 8 April 11
April 13
Associate Professor Karen Benton will speak on “Juvenile Sexual Offenders” Exhibit and Lecture on Scenic Art, by Don McBride, Miller Center for Visual Arts Anthony Dillard, Adjunct Instructor will speak on “Human Trafficking” Reopening of the Johnny Appleseed Educational Center and Museum Swedenborg Lecture: Ray Silverman; “I’m not Religious, I’m Spiritual: The Inner World of a 21st Century College Student Glass Menagerie, by Tennessee William, performed by the UU Theatre Department Urbana University Foundation Wine Tasting, Miller Center for Visual Arts Grand opening of the Miller Center for Visual Arts The Crystal Trio, a unique musical group from Russia that performs music using special glass instruments Assistant Professor Wendy Gilbert’s topic is “Victims of Sexual Violence”
For more information, including time and place, visit us online at www.urbana.edu or call 937-484-1354.
UNIVERSITY LOSES LONGTIME FRIEND, BETTY MURRAY Urbana University recently lost a great friend in Betty Murray (‘63) of Urbana. In 1978, Betty began what would become more than three decades of dedicated service on the Board of Trustees, including multiple terms as Treasurer and Board Secretary and uncountable hours of committee work and leadership. Urbana University Board Member Herb Greer (’71) said he first met Murray when he was in high school and she was working at Urbana University. She loved the University, and Greer remembers joking with her about a national article in which her graduating class of seven was described as the only one in the United States that could fit every member inside a single phone booth.
Numerous other Organizations benefited from Murray’s service, including serving as treasurer for the Champaign C o u n t y Democratic Party General Committee and as a fiscal officer for the Champaign County Library for more than 40 years. UU awarded Murray an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree on May 12, 2007 in recognition of her outstanding professional achievements and community involvement at Urbana University. She and her late husband Bill typically supported the University with humble and quiet leadership. “Betty loved Urbana University,” says President Stephen Jones. “She will be sorely missed.”
BLUE KNIGHT ATHLETICS February 2011 Su
Mo
6 13 20 27
7 14 21 28
Tu 1 8 15 22
We 2 9 16 23
Th 3 10 17 24
Fr 4 11 18 25
Sa 5 12 19 26
March 2011 Su
Mo
Tu 1
We 2
Th 3
Fr 4
6
7
8
9
10
11
13
14
15
16
17
18
20 27
21 28
22 29
23 30
24 31
25
S a 5 1 2 1 9 2 6
Su
Mo
Tu
We
Th
3 10
4 11
5 12
6 13
7 14
Fr 1 8 15
Sa 2 9 16
17 24
18 25
19 26
20 27
21 28
22 29
23 30
Th 5 12 19 26
Fr 6 13 20 27
Sa 7 14 21 28
April 2011
May 2011 Su 1 8 15 22 29
Mo 2 9 16 23 30
Tu 3 10 17 24 31
We 4 11 18 25
Color Key Men’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Lacrosse Swimming Baseball Softball Multiple sports on this date
For times and locations go to sports.urbana.edu Urbana Update | Winter 2011| 19
Alumni Events Blue Knight Blast from the Past Basketball Game: February 12 Cheer with fellow alumni and enjoy an afternoon of women's and men's basketball as you watch the Blue Knights take on Saginaw Valley State University in the gymnasium of the Warren G. Grimes Center. Women's game begins at 2p.m. and the men's game is at 4p.m. Tickets for Urbana University alumni and their guest(s) are $5.00 each at the door. Join us in the Alumni Zone on the upper deck of the Grimes Center for refreshments and snacks between noon and 3:00 p.m. Appearances in the Alumni Zone will be made by current coaches and by previous coaches Bob Cawley and Les Baum. Interested parties can take a campus tour to see the growth of campus at noon, just make mention of the tour in your RSVP. All former alumni in attendance and registered will be recognized during half time. RSVP your name, number attending, campus tour time preference, and class year by February 10, 2011. The first 10 alumni to register get a free Urbana University Alumni T-shirt! For more information, contact Kat Steiner at 937-484-1282 or ksteiner@urbana.edu.
Job and Internship Fair: April 5
Football Golf Scramble: June 17
Mark your calendar for the local Job and Internship Fair hosted by Clark State Community College, Urbana University, and Wittenberg University on April 5 from 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott Springfield Downtown Hotel. More details to follow.
The Blue Knight Football Golf Scramble is an opportunity to support the football program at UU. Alumni are invited to take part as a golfer, sponsor, and/or donor to this memorable event. The Scramble begins at 1:00 p.m. at Woodland Golf Course. Contact John Shingler for details at 937484-6803 or jshingler@urbana.edu.
Wine Tasting: April 7 Urbana University and the Urbana Foundation invite alumni and friends to attend the wine tasting and art auction to benefit the Foundation and the Miller Center for Visual Arts. Contact Jim Thornton for details at 937-484-1297 or jthornton@urbana.edu.
Dayton Dragons Alumni Baseball Outing: April 9 Urbana University’s Office of Alumni Relations invites you to watch the Dayton Dragons play the Bowling Green Hot Rods on Saturday, April 9, at 7:00 p.m. We’ll gather beforehand from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to socialize with fellow alumni and then go to the stadium. Plenty of parking is available near Fifth Third Field (approximately $5 in lots). Respond quickly as space is extremely limited! Reserve your seats by contacting the Office of Alumni Relations at 937-484-1282 or at ksteiner@urbana.edu. Only 50 tickets are available on a first-come, first serve basis.
Athletic Banquet Featuring Speaker Billy Shaw: April 30
Blue Knight Golf Scramble: July Support our Athletic Department and studentathletes by attending the Athletics Department Golf Scramble. The registration fee covers greens fees for 18 holes with a cart, after golf appetizers, and lunch. The 2011 Blue Knight Golf Scramble has sponsorship opportunities available. Doug Young coordinates the event and can be reached at 937-484-1308 or dyoung@urbana.edu.
Homecoming: October 15 Start your fall off right and show that you’re a Blue Knight! Last year’s homecoming brought more than 3,000 persons to campus, many for the game and others who came to renew acquaintances and reconnect with the University. Join us in this celebration of homecoming! More details to follow. Need a place to stay? Think ahead and reserve a room. See a list of local accommodations or call the Champaign County Convention and Visitors Bureau toll free at 877-873-5767.
The Urbana University Athletic Department invites alumni to attend an all-sports athletic awards banquet to recognize our current top studentathletes. Guest speaker is Pro Football Hall of Famer Billy Shaw, former Buffalo Bills and Dallas Cowboys American Football League eight- time All-Star. More information and tickets for the banquet can be purchased by contacting Doug Young at 937-484-1308 or dyoung@urbana.edu.
Mark your calendar for Homecoming October 15, 2011 Alumni at a special event hosted by former Coach Bob Cawley and his wife Betty during Homecoming 2010.
Alumni and the public are invited to share comments about the University! In 2004, Urbana University secured accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, one of six university accrediting agencies in the United States. For the past seven years, Urbana University has been engaged in a continuous improvement process, Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP). In March 2011, Urbana University will undergo a Quality Check-up; The process invites alumni and the public to submit comments regarding the University. Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Written, signed comments must be mailed to: Public Comment on Urbana University, The Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604, and received by February 23, 2011. The Commission cannot guarantee that comments received after the due date will be considered. Comments should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person providing the comments. Comments must be in writing and signed; comments cannot be treated as confidential. Contact alumni@urbana.edu with any questions.