The Urbana University magazine
Fall 2012
Angels at Urbana
University Perspectives In this election year, the importance of attaining a college degree and concern over the apparent escalation of the costs of higher education seems to permeate the news. In many respects, these may be among the most critical issues our nation will face in the next decade. The issue goes far beyond the expectations and hopes of young people entering the work force and adult students seeking to advance their careers.
Table of Contents/ Calendar of Events University Perspectives
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Angels at Urbana
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News Around the U
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In Appreciation: Farewell to Kathy (Mason) Yoder
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Complicating the achievement of this goal is the issue of cost and accessibility. Concern over increasing tuition and fees may be tempered a little by the reality of corresponding increases in inflation over the past decade, but nonetheless, pursuing a college degree these days is practically out of reach for many American families. At Urbana University, like many other small liberal arts institutions, more than 95% of students rely on some form of financial aid – federal student loans, academic and athletic scholarships, work-study programs and the like – to advance their education.
Inside the Classroom: Preparing Intervention Specialists
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Building Bridges: Dean Hoke ’75
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For our part, the University administration has worked hard to control costs, provide more opportunities for student financial aid and, at the same time, improve the quality of education we deliver to our students. Urbana was one of only a handful of colleges to freeze tuition last year and we intend to maintain that hold on escalating costs. Contributed support for our endowed scholarship and William G. Edwards Honors Programs has increased by 35% over the past two years alone, made possible by alumni and friends, like you. Over the same period, Urbana has made great strides in improving the scope of academic offerings and partnered with multiple internet providers to increase the availability of on-line courses we now offer. Improvements have also been made on campus in classroom technology and renovated facilities, including the rededication of the Honda Lecture Hall last month, to enhance the learning and living environment at Urbana.
Livin’ the Dream: Antonio Davis ’06
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On and Off Campus
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The Games Begin with You: Homecoming 2012
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Clearly, much more must and will be accomplished in the near future. Progress is the shared responsibility of all of us and, quoting Mr. Merisotis, “The only way to ensure our future is to improve the ways we prepare our citizens for the 21st century workforce.”
Get Involved 23
In a recent publication, the Lumina Foundation extended a startling challenge to America, one that is backed by the majority of our nation’s leading economists. Remarks made by Lumina Foundation President Jamie P. Merisotis speculated that 60% of Americans will need to attain a post-secondary degree by the year 2025 in order to keep our nation apace with countries competing for a share of the world economy. Today, the rate of degree earners in our work force is just below 40% – a good deal of ground to make up in a relatively short time!
We appreciate your support and partnership in this quest! Sincerely,
Q and A: Dean Shah Hasan
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Class Notes 17 From the Field
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PUBLISHER Urbana University, Urbana, Ohio www.urbana.edu This magazine is published twice yearly by the Office of Alumni Relations VICE PRESIDENT OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT & COMMUNICATIONS James Thornton jthornton@urbana.edu DIRECTOR OF UNIVERISTY RELATIONS Christina Bruun-Horrigan cbruunhorrigan@urbana.edu DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPHER Melissa Closser mclosser@urbana.edu DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Kat Steiner ksteiner@urbana.edu
URBANA UNIVERSITY 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. Send class notes, address, and email address changes to Urbana Update, Urbana University, 579 College Way, Urbana, Ohio 43078 or alumni@urbana.edu.
James Thornton Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Communications
Board Members Elizabeth Coffman ’ 71 Michael Conrad Ron Dodson Frank G. Doyle III Patrick Field William L. Fraim Herbert C. Greer ’ 71 Deborah Hill Grimes Robert G. Harrison ’ 78 Than Johnson Anthony Joy Dr. Gary Lau Diane E. McConnell Michael Major Kenneth Marsenburg Allen R. Maurice Michael G. Minnich Ben Mitchell ’ 79 Jerome O’Neal ’82 Dr. J. Steven Polsley (Chairman) Kay Rich Slesinger Dave Ross ’ 76 Thomas Rue Warren Stevens Charles Sweeting (Vice Chairman) John L. Titus ’ 77 James Wehrman William N. White Charles E. Winter
Urbana University admits students of any race, color, religion, ethnic 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.
OFFICE OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Williams Hall Phone: (937) 484-1282 Fax: (937) 484-1322 Email: alumni@urbana.edu CONTRIBUTORS Chris Anders Sports Information Director Kat Steiner Director of Alumni Relations Tom Alexander Alumni Relations Graduate Assistant
Angels at Urbana 4
Austin E. Knowlton Foundation Named Philanthropist of the Year The Austin E. Knowlton Foundation is the 2012 recipient of the Urbana University Lewis and Jean Moore Philanthropy Award. President Stephen Jones expressed his appreciation to the Foundation’s continuing support of Urbana University with these words of thanks: “The Foundation has enabled us to reach beyond where we were as an institution just four years ago. I believe we share a conviction that a greater purpose lies ahead that will honor the life and memory of Mr. Knowlton permanently and significantly.” The Lewis and Jean Moore Philanthropy Award was established to honor the most impactful University donor in a given fiscal year. The Austin E. Knowlton Foundation was the recipient of this honor in 2008, at which time the Knowlton Scholarship Fund was established through the Urbana University Foundation. This year’s recognition is for the fulfillment of the commitment to this endowed scholarship fund, and in gratitude for the Foundation’s additional gift to establish the William G. Edwards Honors Program.
COMMENCEMENT 2012 The 119th Urbana University commencement was held on May 5, 2012 at the Warren G. Grimes Center gymnasium on the UU campus. Urbana students transitioned to proud alumni of the University after President Stephen Jones and faculty conferred degrees upon 147 graduate and undergraduate students. Dave Ross ’76, owner of Ross Media and member of the University Board of Trustees, gave the keynote address at the commencement ceremony. “When I graduated in 1976, the magic number was 100,” stated Ross. “That’s about how many diplomas were awarded, and also the number of students who lived on campus. When comparing the number of graduates, consider that we had only one annual commencement ceremony rather than the two of today. While some
things have changed, others have remained constant.” Three time alumnus, Kent Miller ’80, ’82, and MBA ’11, concluded the ceremony and provided congratulatory remarks on behalf of the Alumni Advisory Board. “Fellow graduates of Urbana University, we are the torchbearers of this institution’s ‘Knitro’ spirit. As we have received from this University, so it is our responsibility to give back to the generations of students yet to come. Our support will be the key to their success, one student at a time.” The day was a celebration that emphasized staying connected.
WITH HONORS This year’s valedictorian was Arianne Turnmire, who is pictured in the second photo at the right. Turnmire was a member of the William G. Edwards Honors Program, Lambda Sigma Honor Society, Alpha Chi Honor Society, and the Academic Honor Society. This coming fall Turnmire plans to pursue a degree in illustration and animation at the Columbus College of Art and Design.
Urbana University Recognized as Candidate for NCATE Accreditation Urbana University has been recognized as a candidate for accreditation by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the gold standard in preparation of educators to work in P-12 schools. As part of the process to pursue NCATE accreditation, the College of Education and Social Services at Urbana has developed a conceptional framework that outlines their philosophy. Additionally, transition points (or benchmarks) have been developed in all programs to build an infrastructure and accountability system, and major assessments have been developed to provide data-based measurements of candidate performance and program quality.
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Kathy Yoder at the 2012 commencement with Dean of Students, Chip Weisgerber
Yoder reminisces about the campus. “This is home for me. I always felt like I belonged here. In 1964, my education was important and so was my personal growth. There was a spirit here.” She recalls walking through the woods to get to Browne Hall for classes when she was a student. Tennis courts existed where the Swedenborg Library sits. A smile graces her face when she thinks about Lew and Jean Moore, who made the Moore Center for Mathematics and Science a reality on campus. “During my time at Urbana, we grew together, struggled together, and built camaraderie. I feel like I walked through it all and came out a wiser and better person.”
Many people have impacted Kathy’s tenure, but the support staff in the Registrar’s office is especially treasured. “Beverly has been with me for over thirty years, Cassie for ten, and Tammy for five. I have had the privilege of working with some extraordinary individuals who have made my days in this office much easier. I have developed friendships I hold so dear and I am grateful for that.” Kathy’s journey at Urbana yields many strong connections.
“The saddest day ever was when the arches came down outside of Barclay Bailey Hall. The building was the heart and soul of academics. I never would have thought the building would be as vital as it is now.”
Kathy’s fondest memory was meeting her husband, Jeff, who retired from Urbana last year as a mathematics professor. “He is the person who quietly, with distinction, sought to educate men and women in the classroom.” She also recalls doing all of the processes by hand.
“I’ve spent almost 50 years here. How could I not think so warmly about Urbana,” Kathy asks. “The opportunity Urbana University has presented for so many young people to succeed is incredible. There are so many wonderful people. Lives are truly impacted.”
The changes in technology have been interesting. “At one point we had over 1,000 students and we were able to complete all of our processes in the time frame that our computers accomplish now. Of course, I suspect the ‘human computer’ was not quite as accurate. Too, we are now able to generate additional information and reports that we could not back then.”
Kathy Yoder circa 1968, working on one of the original Lancer newspapers
“I can’t say enough about the impact Kathy has made in her tenure at UU,” President Stephen Jones says. “She is an institution unto herself – everyone knows who she is and everyone will miss her daily at this campus.” So what now for the friend, colleague, and history maker, who has seen and done so much for UU?
She said her favorite part of working at Urbana is the relationships she has formed with students, as well as staff and faculty.
In Appreciation: Farewell to Kathy (Mason) Yoder Imagine all that has happened in the last four decades. Kathy (Mason) Yoder, University registrar, has been at Urbana University through eleven presidents, twelve academic provosts, more than 45 commencement ceremonies, taught almost 20 classes, has had four different offices, and was the valedictorian of her graduating class twice.
She served as the assistant registrar from 1969 until 1971. In 1979, she applied for the registrar position and has been in the role ever since. Gary Crist, assistant professor of English, served as the chair of the registrar search committee when Kathy was hired in 1979. He said, “We hired Kathy because she was bright, detail-oriented, a team player, and committed to the mission of the University. When she was hired, we were in a period of financial crises and curricular tumult. I thought that she would ‘stand her ground’ if she were pressured to by-pass documented policy.”
In August 1964, Kathleen (Kathy) Yoder came to Urbana College as a student. She graduated with her associate’s degree in 1966 and bachelor’s degree in 1969, the first class to graduate with a four year baccalaureate degree.
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She plans to enjoy life with her husband, Jeff. “There will be some travel, teaching, church related activities, and I hope to reintroduce myself to my dulcimer,” she stated. Kathy will still be an adjunct for a math class.
Piper Thompson ’82 has sent Kathy a Christmas card for decades. Patty Goodwin ‘80 is still someone who brings a smile to her face. Effortlessly, she recalls relationships with key leaders of the last century at Urbana: Dr. Dickerscheid, Dorothy Tate, Dr. Clara May Fredrick, Bill Roberts, Vivian Blevins, Harry Ebert, Dr. Dorothea Harvey, Bob Cawley, and Les Baum.
“You can remove me from Urbana, but you’ll never be able to take Urbana out of me,” she said. Kathy’s commitment to campus is extraordinary. “Urbana University has been Kathy’s life. She graduated from Urbana in 1969, met her husband here, reared her boys while she was working here, and will retire committed to the institution and its mission. I don’t believe that there ever will be anyone else who is as committed to Urbana University as Kathy Yoder,” concluded Crist.
She has served on countless committees that have dramatically impacted Urbana history and student traditions. For example, the Circle of Honor formed following each commencement is a ten-year old tradition that evolved as crowd management became increasingly more important.
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Q. When did you fall in love with business? I fell into teaching organizational behavior and managing change, and one day found myself an advocate for more economic literacy about success. If we can help prepare business leaders who can think about both opportunity and responsibility, and have the skills to lead, then we find success.
College of Education Meets Growing Demand for Intervention Specialists Positioning itself to better meet the unique needs of adolescents with disabilities or exceptionalities, their families, and employers, Urbana University’s College of Education and Sports Studies continues to spur student interest and bolster academic support by fostering community-based experiences for special education students.
Q. How is Urbana unique from other business schools? What makes us unique is our students; each one, a one-of-akind-in-the-world individual learner. In this sense, no business schools are alike.
The College’s Career and Transition Planning course (SED 405) was incorporated into Urbana’s curriculum four years ago. The course prepares students who are being trained to receive a licensure as intervention specialists by partnering with ten sites within the Miami Valley and facilitating a series of direct contacts with young exceptionals and their parents.
Q. What activities would you suggest the incoming Urbana students to try outside of the classroom? For years I have been telling students that what matters most is connecting learning to their lives. I tell them to find something outside the classroom that is worth doing and fun, learn to do it better than most, and then lead, and serve the world with what you have learned. College is one place to begin thinking about how our lives can make a difference.
Dr. Jim Judge, faculty member in the College of Education and Sports Studies who also worked as a public educator for more than 31 years states, “As an educator, teachers need to be prepared to develop transition plans for all students to prepare them to be good community citizens. We are committed to giving Urbana students insight on how to help transition exceptionals from high school and into a vocation with the appropriate life skills.” Exceptional Job Preparation
Dr. Jim Judge, College of Education
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that each state evaluates federal special education policies. The Ohio Longitudinal Transition Study reports that, “78% of students with disabilities planned to be employed with 41% expecting full-time work and 51% were working one year after high school graduation.” It’s critical for education majors to work with a diverse spectrum of students; Urbana students know that engaging students with disabilities or exceptionals to prepare them with life skills is critical to success in their field. “It was eye-opening to meet both intervention professionals and exceptionals in their places of employment. The class actually got to see an average person’s work day; I learned that exceptionals are very functional adults,” said senior early childhood and special education major Lindsay Eckurd, one of the sixteen students who took advantage of the course. Through the class, she learned that intervention specialists are not just limited to a school setting. “The field isn’t limited and I now want to work in a career center. The course showed me possibilities.” New Perspectives
Dr. Jim Judge with Malia-Kia Pidcock ’11 at TAC Enterprises
Malia-Kia Pidcock ‘11 is a shift supervisor at TAC in Springfield, Ohio, a site that hosts Urbana students. TAC works to provide employment, housing connections, and life skills to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. She wants Urbana students to walk away from the course with an understanding that there are options for young people with disabilities after high school ends. Pidcock tells students who visit TAC, “There is always a place where students can thrive; teachers are responsible for finding a niche for students who may transition into the workforce.” Other host sites include local career tech centers, Champaign Residential Services Inc. in Urbana, Ohio, Downsize Farm in Woodstock, Ohio, Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority in Dayton, Ohio, and RTC Industries in Bellefontaine, Ohio.
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Reflections on the College of Business A Q & A with Dean Shah Hasan Update magazine asked our new College of Business Dean, Dr. Shah Hasan, to reflect on the growth of the college and the direction of the business program as the University enters a new phase of leadership.
Q. What advice would you give to the Class of 2016 business students? I would recommend that each and every member of the class find an internship even if you have to work for free. Find an experience where you are responsible for results, and have people counting on you. Work experience remains a key differentiator for employers. Q. How do you think business students’ attitudes and motivations toward the degree and, more broadly, toward business education have changed in the past 20 years? How do you see them changing in the next 20 years? They might worry more because of the state of our economy and the labor market, but I think students today still think that business education is relevant. How we learn is beginning to change and I believe that technology will play a more critical role in business education. Q. How are business programs responding to these trends and where do they need to respond differently? A relevant business program needs to help students learn in the best way so that they can acquire a set of skills, ideas, and attitudes. The best programs are ones that offer opportunities for learning through experiment and experience, where students can learn by helping to generate solutions for real-world problems. Q. On a more philosophical level, can leadership and ethics be taught? How do you think business schools and corporations should be teaching these? Yes, leadership and ethics can indeed be learned and taught. We can help students clarify their values – what matters to them and why. We can help students learn to interrogate their dominant paradigms, to question what is, and to think about what ought to be. 11
Building Bridges: Dean Hoke ’75 Dean Hoke ‘75 has a string of accolades and titles that would impress the best in the field of communications. He was the president of Alaska’s largest public television and radio station, the executive vice president for The Military Channel, and is the co-founder of the Connected Learning Network. A recipient of the City of Louisville’s Distinguished Citizen’s Award, an energetic leader, and a skilled fundraiser, Hoke currently manages relations and communications for the United Arab Emirates’ Advanced National Research and Education Network, Ankabut, which is housed at Khalifa University. Ankabut provides high speed non-commercial internet to education networks and connects 56 campuses to over 120,000 college students. In addition to his BA from Urbana, he has a MS degree from the University of Louisville and a certificate from the Wharton School of Business Executive Management Program. He served as a board member for numerous organizations, including Urbana. His resume lists multiple honors and oodles of experience. “I’ve enjoyed many opportunities,” he admits. “But, the ability to communicate has been the crux of my career. It’s about getting to know people and learning how to listen a great deal. Marketing is a business and communication is trying to present what your organization represents. There is not much difference in what the product is. You learn that once you’re in the job. You see that each thing has a unique situation and way of branding,” he says.
“I would say that has a lot to do with a liberal arts education. When you go to a school like Urbana, you learn everything from music to business.” After running three public broadcasting stations and working in various fundraising capacities, Hoke sought opportunity and ways to push him further. “My wife, Nancy, and I wanted to do something different, out of the ordinary. What I like about Ankabut is rather than working with one university, I get to work with all of the universities in the United Arab Emirates.” “It’s a fun challenge. The technology from Ankabut is cool and cutting edge, but the entire experience of marketing for the UAE gives you the chance to test yourself. It completely challenges your marketing and communications style.”
Hoke’s insights from living in Abu Dhabi and marketing the Ankabut project internationally provide him with a deeper appreciation of diversity. “Eight million people live in the country. Nearly four million are from India and Pakistan, one million Emiratis, and the rest from various nations. There are students from all over the globe in the United Arab Emirates. The most interesting thing has been learning a new culture and getting rid of my preconceived notions. I don’t consider myself a former student of anything,” he says. “I’m a lifelong learner.” “I would say that has a lot to do with a liberal arts education. When you go to a school like Urbana, you learn everything from music to business.” Hoke began his college education at another private institution and he states, “I didn’t do very well. There were 8,000 students; I couldn’t figure it out and it was a little overwhelming to me. I dropped out.” He started at Urbana in the legendary summer of ’69 when there were less than 40 students on campus. As a student of the 70s, he feels like Urbana nurtured critical thinking and created strong emotional ties to Urbana and classmates. “I was part of Tent City on campus. I was also one of 34 people that were arrested in Urbana for a sit-in supporting voting rights. We were not compartmentalized; I think that may be a part of Urbana. Classes encouraged individualistic thinking.” It was a unique time in history. “The administration was tolerant and ultimately they were encouraging students to expand, to learn a little bit more. They were a very conservative and very liberal group. I adored Urbana,” he shares. Hoke, now responsible for marketing for numerous universities, finds himself constantly learning, enjoying dialogue with colleagues, and connecting with students, just like he did when he was a student.
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Livin’ the Dream: Antonio Davis ’06 Only a select few from the thousands of collegiate athletes across the country will move on to the next level, and for those who do, it is not a stretch to say that it is a dream come true.
“I was really excited. I prepared myself physically and mentally. It was something I wanted to do. I was ready to go because I had trained so hard. I didn’t know what to expect in the way of coaching or playing in South America, but I had to take it because it was my opportunity.”
Antonio Davis ‘06 is living the dream. Davis has spent time recently playing basketball professionally in Peru for the Club Centro Naval del Peru team. Antonio was a standout at Urbana University, who was featured in Sports Illustrated’s “Faces in the Crowd” when he was on campus. Antonio came to Urbana after graduating from Columbus Whetstone High School in Columbus, Ohio, the place he still calls home during the offseason. Tenacity is how Antonio reached his status as a professional basketball player. He credits that strong work ethic to a tragic event that occurred during his sophomore year at Urbana University. When Antonio lost his father, it only added fuel to his competitive fire. “My father had been my motivation. He wanted to see me be successful. Playing basketball is something that I love to do. If I can do it for him, then I do it for me.” Focus is a must for Antonio, and he displays it in his daily life. An average day for Antonio entails a morning workout, time spent teaching local children the game of basketball, a brief afternoon break, and a two-hour practice in the evening. That work ethic is what led Antonio to the current opportunity to play basketball in Peru in 2009, a moment that he will never forget.
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Regardless of his preparation, Antonio worried about blending into a new culture. But, this wasn’t the first time Antonio had to learn how to adjust to a new situation; he had made such a transition before when he first came to Urbana as a “city kid.” This made the transition to Peruvian culture easier for him than it was for some of his peers. “You had to adjust to different backgrounds, values, and viewpoints at Urbana. As an African-American, one had to adjust to conversing with Caucasians. Living on campus and interacting with my teammates and other students taught me how to accept others’ differences. This then helped me as I began to interact with people from different cultures.” Antonio also believes that other factors at Urbana played a key role in shaping him into the man he is today. He does not hesitate to credit those who he found to be extremely influential during his time at UU. “I could name a few people, but it was the University as a whole that helped me become who I am today. It boils down to the whole University. Every professor, even the president of the University was behind me and wanted to see me succeed. It wasn’t just one person.” However, there is one person who Antonio specifically remembers as pushing him to become a better student.
B “When I came up there, I saw an old professor. He was a tough English professor, and he kept giving me bad grades, but it was a learning experience. He would take the time to sit down with me and go over my writing and just talk. Looking back on this time with Dr. David George, I’ve realized that he was preparing me for the future.”
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It was experiences like his interactions with Dr. George and other students that make Antonio miss Urbana. He struggles to pinpoint just one thing that he misses.
On and Off Campus
“Everything! When I was there, all the athletes got along. Basketball players hung out with football players. There were no cliques. Everyone was cool. I enjoyed my time there.”
Antonio autgraphing a basketball for a young fan overseas
“It’s just being you. It’s not trying to be someone that you’re not. There are people who work hard at being someone else. But, it goes a long way when you are just yourself. People like that.”
Antonio has reached a good amount of success on the court in Peru. During his first professional season, his team won the league championship. With this success comes a new found celebrity status with the people of Peru. This is something that Antonio has tried his best to adjust to by being authentic. “It’s just being you. It’s not trying to be someone that you’re not. There are people who work hard at being someone else. But, it goes a long way when you are just yourself. People like that.”
A President Stephen Jones appreciates blooming wildflowers on campus as part of a U.S. Fish and Ohio Wildlife Service grant obtained in 2009 as part of Urbana’s emphasis on sustainability.
E Faculty and staff recognized for long-time commitment and tenure at Urbana. Congrats to Dr. Jim Judge, Dr. Cheryl Fenno, Dr. Sylvia Bryant, Pat Sommer, Cate Brinnon, Jamie Latimer ’98, and John Gore M ’07
B Tobi Cooper ’03, winner of the “Show Us Your Spirit” Facebook photo contest.
F Urbana University Singers presented Titanic, the Musical during spring 2012.
C Enjoying Alumni Night at the Dayton Dragons baseball game in May.
G Relay for Life raised money for the Champaign County American Cancer Society for eight consecutive years.
D University hosted Ohio Chautauqua, a living history event sponsored by the Ohio Humanities Council.
H Urbana University Foundation hosted the annual fundraiser, “Red, White, and Brew.” I The third annual Andia Shisler Memorial Benefit in Lima, Ohio was held on August 18, 2012 at the F.A.S.T. Complex on South Dixie Hwy.
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Antonio could certainly be viewed as a role model, not just for current Blue Knight athletes, but students in general. He has experienced a great deal in his lifetime and has developed a strong piece of advice for current students at UU. “Whatever you’re trying to achieve, put your mind to it and do it. Don’t let faculty or staff members discourage you. Don’t let a coach discourage you. They are just trying to help you out. You have to learn to take constructive criticism. You are not going to know how to do everything correctly. Take it the right way,” he shares. Antonio doesn’t stop with offering advice to current students. Davis has never stopped supporting Urbana; he recently brought his cousin to campus and helped him with the application process. This young man is now enrolled for this coming fall at Urbana. He encourages all alumni recognize their Blue Knight roots and encourage other students to consider UU. “Try to be as influential as you can. If you were a student-athlete, support the current coaches and players. Keep in touch with faculty and staff. Try to be as involved in the University as possible, so that people everywhere can see the success of Urbana alumni. Be a positive role model for current and future Blue Knight students so that they in turn can also be successful in their careers.”
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Antonio is a motivated alumnus with a strong passion for basketball, life, and Urbana University. Make sure you keep your eye out for Antonio if you are ever in Peru, and if you should see him, let him know that you are proud of the way he is representing Urbana, both on and off the court.
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Homecoming 2012
October 20, 2012 THE GAMES BEGIN WITH U
In Memory: Ira Zuckerman, former Urbana sociology professor, passed away peacefully at his home in Napa Valley on Sunday, January 17, 2010,
Keep connected with alumni and friends
after a valiant and courageous battle with
Share what is happening in your life with your fellow alumni. Class notes, including births, marriages, promotions, additional education, relocations, and more can be submitted to:
cancer. Throughout this struggle, his optimism and positive outlook never waned.
Office of Alumni Relations c/o Class Notes 579 College Way Urbana, OH 43078 Phone: 937-484-1282 alumni@urbana.edu
Ira taught at Urbana then headed to New York City where he began what would be an illustrious 35 year career in advertising as
Follow Urbana Alum on Facebook and Twitter.
an account executive at the Ted Bates agency.
10:00 a.m.
Ira was a founding partner and senior account
Pre-Game Class Reunion Pancake Breakfast and Three Arches Award Ceremony @ Student Center
services manager for Hal Riney & Partners
12:00 p.m.
agency’s major clients including Gallo,
Urbana University vs. McKendree University @ Blue Knight Stadium
where he helped create the memorable
in San Francisco. He oversaw many of the
Class Notes
Bartles & Jaymes wine cooler campaign,
3:00 p.m. Post-Game Alumni Gathering @ Brackens
Blitz-Weinhard Brewing, Perrier and others.
All Blue Knights, parents, family, and friends are invited to join us at 10:00a.m. on Homecoming Saturday for a pancake breakfast as we enjoy a pre-game alumni gathering in honor of the classes of: 2011, 2007, 2001, 1997, 1991, 1987, 1981, 1977, 1971, 1967, and 1961.
perspective, honesty, wit and creativity beyond
Register and get details at:
Please share condolences and memories at
Always, Ira brought passion, intelligence,
his account manager moniker. You may wish to make a donation to honor Ira’s life to Napa Valley Hospice Adult Day Services (info@nvhads.org).
WWW.URBANA.EDU/ALUMNI
www.treadwayandwiggerfuneralchapel.com.
Questions?
Contact Kat Steiner at (937) 484-1282 or ksteiner@urbana.edu
(l-r) Bethany Kramer ’14, Sheridon Gibson ’10, and Kandalyn Green ’09 on a mission trip in Tijuana, Mexico.
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1966
1997
1970
1998
Richard Groeber was honored on October 1, 2011 by the Saint Teresa Parish for his special service to both the parish and the community. Dennis McCurdy resides in Harmony, Pennsylvania and runs his own law practice. He lives with his wife MJ, who manages an art gallery. Dennis also promotes music in his free time.
Dennis pictured with his wife, MJ
Anne Baker received her MEd from Urbana University in 2007 and twice received the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Science Education. Rebecca Hall was named director of athletics at Oglethorpe University in North Atlanta, Georgia. Jennifer Hess is currently working for Cardinal Health. Chrissie Powers is currently a forensic accountant at P.D. Eye Forensics, LLC.
Brian Shipley is currently teaching physical education at Connellsville Area High School; married with two sons and actively involved in charity efforts in western Pennsylvania.
1999
Julie Covault was named CFO at the Wilson Hospital in Sidney, Ohio. Jennifer Harpest is working as an athletic trainer and teaching courses in Arizona.
1971
Brant Butler is a controller for Saf-Glas, LLC in Riviera Beach, Florida. Brant lives with his wife Teresa.
Douglas Dill retired as an assistant professor at The Ohio State University. Douglas gave 30 years of service to the 4-H organization in Perry and Champaign counties.
1973
Cinda Anderton retired from teaching after a 30-year career in the state of Ohio and now resides in Arizona.
1980
Kent Miller completed his requirements for an MBA from UU (his third degree from UU), and recently moved to Cushing, Oklahoma where he is a pilot on a Lear and Citation jet.
2002
LaRue Cooper is the executive chef at Tavern 42 in Delaware, Ohio. Treat yourself to the dessert special for Blue Knights! Joseph Fultz is currently teaching in the Dayton Public Schools system and became Nationally Board Certified in 2009.
Darla Moore is a National Board Certified Teacher of ELA. She is a four-time presenter at the OCTELA conference and is the Lead Content Expert for Implementation of Common Core Standards.
2003
Tobi Cooper won the Office of Alumni Relations “Show Us Your Pride” Facebook photo contest.
1983
Tobi with her late mother on graduation day
Kevin Cook was named head women’s basketball coach at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Chase Merriman was recently awarded a Quantum Medallion for his achievements as a runner from a Columbus, Ohio running club. Chase took up running after he graduated and has lost over 100 pounds. He now trains runners for marathons and works as a running specialist at Dicks Sporting Goods.
2008
Mike Worrell coached the 2011 NCAA Slam Dunk Champion, Jacob Tucker of Illinois College. He won the event at the Final 4 in Houston, Texas and was the first NCAA Division III player to win the event. Tucker has signed with the Harlem Globetrotters.
2004/2007
1988
Rob Cowles is currently program director at the Fairborn YMCA in Fairborn, Ohio.
Kerry Brugger was named city administrator for the city of Urbana.
2005
Jamie Hart is currently working as a physician coach at Mount Carmel Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.
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2008/2012
Ashley (Boggess) Beery married Kevin Beery on July 16, 2011.
2009
Kendal (Schaefer) Fritz married Andrew Fritz in Las Vegas, Nevada on March 13, 2012.
2010
Monica Miller is the Regional Human Resources Administrator for the South Atlantic Region for Aramark Business and Industry Group. Her main focus is Employee Relations and supporting the Senior Staff with Business Development.
Christopher Dillon married Maura Chamberlain. Erin (Skeen) Bezak married Michael Bezak ’09 on May 6, 2012
Brittany Thompson is working with the human trafficking commission at the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
2011
Maria (Hendricks) LaFollette married Bo LaFollette on June 9, 2012.
2009
Zachary Middaugh is working at Walt Disney World as an Entertainment Technician.
Caitlin (Wood) Stanton married Joshua Stanton. Caitlin is currently working as a personal fitness counselor at the Fairborn YMCA in Fairborn, Ohio.
2010
2012
Daniel Haddix married Lorissa West on April 21, 2012.
Owen Donelon has accepted a position with Stryker Medical and has relocated to Boston, Massachusetts.
DEATHS
2011
Erin Fannin accepted a position with AkzoNobel in Columbus, Ohio.
1937
James Marine passed away on April 21, 2011.
Rachel Hudson is an account clerk at the Attorney General’s Office.
1970
Dorothea Headings passed away on February 18, 2012.
Ryan O’Sheilds has opened his own training business in Matthews, North Carolina.
Raymond Snarr passed away in his home on June 12, 2012.
2012
1972
Lauren Turner teaches 3rd grade in the Bellefontaine City School district.
Richard (Dick) Flath passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 13, 2012 in Massillon, Ohio.
MARRIAGES
1973
Reverend Gale (Skip) Colvin passed away on November 25, 2011.
2004
Rachel (Underwood) Swift married Ryan Swift ’03, M ’05 in October 2007. The couple currently resides in Oxford, North Carolina
1987
Lori Fetherolf is the executive director of the Putnam County YMCA in Ottawa, Ohio and has been in the position since 2010.
2006
2005
Aaron Keyes is married to UU alumna Mary Jo (Brugger) ’05. The couple works at Pure Romance and is expecting their first child in the fall.
2008
1974
James Goldsmith passed away on March 14, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer.
1983
Willie Grayson Flunoy passed away in September 2011.
1992
Pam Schultz passed away on May 24, 2012.
Laura (Gillaugh) Cross married Craig Cross ’09 on October 2, 2010. Laura is working as an enriched curriculum teacher at Bright Beginnings in Greene County, part of the Beavercreek, Ohio school system.
We want to hear from you! Submit your class notes by mail or email to alumni@urbana.edu
Todd Trainer married Erica Wilkins.
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The UU softball team celebrates the team’s D-II Ohio Independents’ Championship in May.
From the field In order to make the move to D-II, Urbana had to end its ties to the NAIA and its former conference homes. After 3 years of transition, the Blue Knights became eligible for NCAA post-season championships during the 2010-11 school year. Unfortunately, advancing to the NCAA’s national post-season tournaments as an independent is quite a tall task for any program, especially newcomers without a D-II reputation.
Championships Return to UU
For the first time in 5 years, Urbana University athletic teams claimed outright championships in 2011-12. The Blue Knight softball, football, and men’s swim teams brought home the hardware this past season, ending the campus’ trophy drought that began when Urbana entered its 3-year transitional period to NCAA Division II during the 2007-08 school year. 20
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Get Involved with Alumni Relations Alumni involvement at Urbana is an essential part of helping support the mission and advancement of the University. Here are a few of the many ways you can give back to your alma mater and become more involved:
1. Recruit future alumni.
The Frontline Alumni Networking with Students (FANS) programs promote alumni engagement with prospective students on various levels.Volunteers can refer a prospective student, contact students, represent UU on a Visit Day or at a college fair, or host an Urbana reception in their home.
2. Mentor and career networking.
Students and alumni always are looking for opportunities to connect with fellow Blue Knights. Whether it’s joining the UU Alumni Group on LinkedIn, participating as a Career Partner with Career Services, or sending job opportunities to students, now’s the time to get involved, mentor, and network with fellow alumni and students.
3. Join the Alumni Association.
Alumni connect Blue Knights near and far to their alma mater. In June of 2010, we relaunched the
Alumni Association to include an annual and lifetime membership. We’re planning to expand to increase membership. Do you want to show your support? Join today.
4. Give feedback.
The alumni board is composed of more than 15 alumni volunteers who represent Urbana alumni worldwide. As an advisory board, it provides support with key initiatives, programs, planning, and focuses the efforts of the Alumni Relations through committee work and outreach. Tell them what you think.
5. Attend an Event.
See the list of upcoming events in the Urbana Update. We’re looking for alumni who want to be involved by hosting an opportunity for alumni to interact with each other. Contact Kat Steiner at 937-484-1282 to sponsor one in your area.
To learn more about the exciting new developments and view the menu of opportunities to engage with the Alumni Relations, go to www.urbana.edu/alumni.
Deserved Recognition The Office of Alumni Relations is requesting nominations for the Three Arches Alumni and Distinguished Service to the Alumni Association awards. The Three Arches Alumni Award is the highest honor for alumni; it recognizes professional accomplishments in a chosen field of service. The Distinguished Service Award recognizes exceptional commitment and service to alumni relations. The awards will be presented during Homecoming on October 20, 2012. The deadline for nominations is September 28, so submit your nominations soon. For more information about the Three Arches Awards, visit www.urbana.edu/alumni or call the Office of Alumni Relations at 937-484-1282.
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Urbana University Office of Alumni Relations 579 College Way Urbana, Ohio 43078
How will you plan for your future? What happens in the future will impact your loved ones and your estate in countless ways. Careful planning is important to ensure that your loved ones are well cared for and your estate is not subjected to unnecessary and burdensome taxes. Urbana University would like to help you organize and plan for the future with a FREE Estate Planning Guide and free seminars on estate and financial planning topics. You can’t afford not to plan! Join us on Saturday, October 27, 2012 1:00 p.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room in the Student Center for a free seminar presented by J. David Hoskins, CFP, Champaign Bank Vice President and Trust Officer. Visit our website to request your free guide today.
Urbana University Planned Giving
(937) 484-1297