The Franklin University
CLOCKTOWER Embracing Opportunity Entrepreneurial Spirit in Action
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MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY
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UNIVERSITY, PROGRAMS & FACULTY RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE
NEW DOCTORAL COHORT MAKES HISTORY
2017
A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University
University Leadership
M E S S AG E F R O M T H E P R E S I D E N T
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here’s been a great deal reported about higher education over the past few years and, unfortunately, not all of it good. Public funding of schools has decreased while enrollment has declined. For-profit institutions have experienced challenges, too, and in the midst of it all, some institutions have found it impossible to continue operations. As a nonprofit, private institution, Franklin University has been able to weather these storms far better than many. In fact, while some colleges and universities have been forced to cut offerings, we’ve just added three new doctoral programs, expanding opportunities for adult learners in central Ohio and around the globe. How can Franklin do this? The answer is quite simple: It’s who we are. For 115 years, our University has worked to not only address, but to also anticipate the needs of students and the communities we serve. We work hard to structure flexible schedules and design relevant majors that will benefit students by imparting real-world, practical instruction. As a result, Franklin has become known as an industry leader that others seek to follow. I am proud of our faculty and staff who work so hard to make the goal of an affordable, quality education possible for so many people. As president, I am equally proud of our thousands of students throughout the world who daily demonstrate the drive and perseverance necessary to make their dreams a reality. They are the reason we are here and our motivation for doing all that we can to improve our services. Finally, I am equally proud and grateful to each of you, our alumni and friends. Your generous sharing of your experience, talent, time and financial support provide us with resources found nowhere else. Thank you. We recently brought back into our marketing a phrase that has become synonymous with our institution: “Franklin Makes it Possible!” It is all of us, the Franklin Family past and present, that make it possible for men and women of diverse backgrounds and experiences to reach a common goal. As each new alumnus crosses the stage on graduation day, it is one, unified effort that has made that short walk, but ever-so-long journey, a reality. Working together,
Franklin really does make it possible. Best regards,
Dr. David R. Decker President
Clocktower 2017 | alumni.franklin.edu
Dr. David R. Decker President Marv Briskey Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Christi Cabungcal Chief of Staff & Senior Vice President, Administration Dr. Godfrey Mendes Senior Vice President of Global Programs & Strategic Initiatives Dr. Pam Shay Senior Vice President of Accreditation & Institutional Effectiveness Linda Steele Vice President of Enrollment & Student Affairs Rick Sunderman Vice President & Chief Information Officer Dr. Christopher Washington Provost & Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Luis Galarza Executive Director, Market Development
Office of University Advancement Department of Alumni Engagement and Development Bonnie Quist ’00 Vice President for University Advancement & Strategic Relations Kevin L. Greenwood Director of Alumni Engagement and Development Joella Henry ’09 Advancement Services Coordinator Deborah Lyons University Advancement Work Study Student Sarah Jorgenson ’09 Administrative Assistant to the Vice President for University Advancement & Strategic Relations Jody Noreen ’09 Director of Advancement Services & Strategic Relations Betty Scipio University Advancement Work Study Student
Editorial Staff Editor Bonnie Quist ‘00 Copywriters Kevin L. Greenwood Bonnie Quist ‘00 Graphic Designer Amber Mabry
Contact Information Franklin University Office of University Advancement 201 S. Grant Ave. Columbus, OH 43215 614.947.6062 1.877.341.6300 alumni@franklin.edu alumni.franklin.edu
Table of
Contents
4.......Franklin News Congratulations to our Newest Graduates Franklin University Ranked #1 In Memoriam: Dr. Souren Soumbatiants Board of Trustees Updates 11......Alumni Spotlight Judge Terri Jamison 13.....Student Spotlight Carmalita Geter and Roland Slade III 14.....Doctoral Programs 16.....Faculty Feature Dr. Karen Miner-Romanoff 18.....Making A Difference Memories and Motivation Alumni Military Scholarships We DO Make It Possible Corporate Connections 1902 Leadership Circle & Scholarship Recipients 21.....Class Notes In Memoriam
A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 1.
ALUMNI GREETING
ALUMNI GREETING
Photo credit to Josh L. Smith
alumni.franklin.edu Keep in touch and let us know what extraordinary things you are doing.
(L to R) Sarah Jorgenson, Joella Henry, Jody Noreen, Bonnie Quist, Kevin Greenwood FACEBOOK
At Franklin, ambition and determination are part of our collective DNA – not only as individuals but as an institution. It’s a winning combination that means there’s always something new and exciting to tell you about. For example, with the announcement of three doctoral programs, Franklin University entered a new and exciting phase of its history. At the other end of the spectrum, the University partnered with the Columbus Council on World Affairs, hosting high school students from throughout central Ohio as part of the Global Scholars Program, further demonstrating Franklin’s commitment to lifelong learning.
/FranklinU /FranklinAlumni
@FranklinU @FranklinAlum
And learning extends to instructors, too. Our International Institute for Innovative Instruction hosted the Innovations in Teaching & Learning Conference. The conference offered educators and education-minded innovators from universities and organizations around the world two days of presentations and conversations geared around thinking big, thinking smart, and thinking new. At the same time, there were opportunities for sharing completed research as participants from industry, education, government, and the nonprofit sector presented academic posters at the 2016 Learning Showcase.
Franklin University
While there’s always something new at Franklin, we continue to build upon the foundation that makes Franklin unique. We continue to seek ways to better serve students throughout the educational journey, guided by our Common Purpose statement: “At our best for our students.” The new Learning Commons unites course resources including e-textbooks and research assistance with tools for academic success like writing workshops and tutoring, and centralizes them (free of charge) to advance student learning. Finally, the recent establishment of the Make It Possible Fund will assist students facing unexpected financial hardships.
Franklin University’s Alumni Group
So that’s what’s new at Franklin. What’s new with you? Keep those stories about your Franklin experience and your continuing achievements coming. We love hearing from you! Thank you for being an active member of our alumni family and for the support you provide our students. Together, we make it possible! Your Alumni Engagement Team
2. | Clocktower 2017 | alumni.franklin.edu
YOUTUBE
TOGETHER, WE HELP EACH OTHER DO MORE. Nationwide® is proud to announce our partnership with the Franklin University Alumni Family. To learn more about our partnership call 1-866-238-1426 or visit nationwide.com/FranklinUniversity.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Alumni Six Sigma White Belt Class:
June 17 This year’s Professional Development Day, sponsored by Nationwide, will be held on Main Campus in Ross Auditorium and online via Adobe Connect and features an alumni-only Six Sigma White Belt certification class. During this discounted White Belt Certification, participants will gain an understanding of Six Sigma, including how it has developed and how the concept is used to streamline and strengthen manufacturing and service industries. Skills learned in this program will enable participants to understand how Six Sigma concepts can improve quality and reduce cost while refining customer satisfaction. Participants will also learn how Six Sigma methodologies can enhance quality programs, retain customers, and drive down costs.
Professional Development Day Event Schedule Check In & Breakfast • 8 a.m. Welcome & Certification Class • 8:30 a.m.-Noon Free Parking in Lot C Admission $25 (Tax-Deductible Contribution to the Make It Possible Student Assistance Fund) Register Online Beginning April 24 at alumni.franklin.edu Instructing the course will be Dr. Alyncia Bowen, program chair of Franklin University’s undergraduate healthcare programs and certified Six Sigma Black Belt. She served as a professor in the Business Administration and Management & Leadership programs, the MBA program and currently teaches in two of Franklin’s doctoral programs. Bowen has also served as an instructor for Mount Carmel College of Nursing and as a guest lecturer on the topics of research and project management. In addition to education, Bowen has worked in healthcare for over 23 years, has held several leadership and operations management positions. “We are pleased to be able to fulfill two important goals with this year’s event,” remarked Kevin Greenwood, director of Alumni Engagement and Development. “This year’s Alumni Professional Development Day provides an opportunity for our graduates to continue on their journey of lifelong learning, while at the same time raises funds to assist current students complete their degrees. We are very grateful to our partners at Nationwide for supporting our students and alumni by sponsoring this year’s event.”
Nationwide may make a financial contribution to this organization in return for the opportunity to market products and services to its members or customers. Products Underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Columbus, OH 43215. Not all Nationwide affiliated companies are mutual companies, and not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review, and approval. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle design are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. ©2016 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. AF0-0575AO.1 (6/16)
For more information on Alumni Professional Development Day 2017, please contact the Alumni Engagement Team at alumni@franklin.edu or by calling 614.947.6062. Please note that admission contributions are non-refundable.
A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 3.
FRANKLIN NEWS
Welcome to the Franklin Family! Nearly 2,000 Diplomas Awarded in 2016
Franklin University proudly honors all the recent graduates for their academic successes. Earning a diploma is a tremendous accomplishment that is often balanced with many responsibilities – full-time work, a busy family life and community commitments. Graduates, supported by friends and family, gathered at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in celebration after the fall, winter and summer terms.
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A long-standing tradition during commencement ceremonies at Franklin University is the Robert L. Bailey Teaching Award. Each trimester, graduating students nominate an undergraduate and a graduate faculty member who highly influenced their educational experience. The award recognizes those who have challenged students intellectually and conveyed the significance of course content for both personal and professional growth.
2016 COMMENCEMENT Fall Highlights President and CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption Rita Soronen gave the keynote address. For more than 30 years, Soronen has worked on behalf of abused, neglected and vulnerable children, providing leadership for local, state and national efforts to improve the juvenile justice and child welfare systems, while striving to assure safe and
2016 Bailey Award Winners Undergraduate Student Nomination: Joseph Gawronski “Mr. G merged theory and practice application better than any professor I’ve ever had and really helped me to want to succeed. His straight-forward approach to teaching really helped me stick with my plan to earn my degree.”
Graduate Student Nomination:
permanent homes for children.
Roger W. Engle Jr.
Graduating Student Speaker: Bret Prange (M.S. Human Resource Management)
“Professor Engle changed the way that I approached situations in the workplace and significantly improved my understanding of real world information technology policies and environments.”
Winter Highlights
Undergraduate Student Nomination:
Keynote speaker Thomas C. Barbee’s career as a Wendy’s franchisee spans more than 40 years, during which time he owned and operated up to 32 restaurants in Iowa and Illinois. Barbee was a 12-year member of the Wendy’s Franchise Advisory Committee and served two years as the committee’s president, representing franchisees across the country. He also served six years on the Wendy’s National Advertising Committee and was elected to the Wendy’s Hall of Fame in 1998. Graduating Student Speaker: Robert Garrett (Master of Healthcare Administration)
Summer Highlights Michael B. Coleman was the ceremony’s keynote speaker. A partner and member of Ice Miller LLP’s Public Affairs and Government Law groups, Coleman serves as the firm’s director of business and government strategies. He draws upon his 15 years as mayor and chief executive officer for the city of Columbus to guide clients in creating partnerships between business and government. Graduating Student Speaker: Rupa Singh (M.S. in Accounting)
Omar Alomari “Professor Omar Alomari possesses a powerful and inspiring enthusiasm for teaching. I have the utmost respect for him and I appreciate and cherish the time I’ve spent in his class.”
Graduate Student Nomination: Dr. Jeffrey M. Ferezan “Dr. Ferezan helps his students grow not only academically, but professionally and personally as well. I am truly blessed to have had an instructor who cares this much about his students.”
Undergraduate Student Nomination: Denise Kestner “Professor Denise Kestner demonstrates a passion for teaching by relating her vast work experience to our course material and shows her dedication through the endless encouragement she gives to students.”
Graduate Student Nomination: Joseph Cable “Professor Joseph Cable is an amazing instructor who generously shares his time and knowledge with every student. His use of real work experience deepened my learning and his support encouraged me to have more faith in my abilities.” A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 5.
FRANKLIN NEWS
FRANKLIN NEWS
Franklin University Ranked #1 Online School in Ohio TheBestSchools.org recently confirmed what you’ve THEBEST known for a long time: SCHOOLS Best Schools Franklin University is the number one online school in Ohio. The ranking furthers the University’s reputation as an innovator and expert in online learning.
TS
www.thebestschools.org
Earning a number one online ranking puts the University at the top of an industry that has experienced enormous growth over the last decade. According to a 2015 report by Babson Research titled Tracking Online Education in the United States, today one out of three college students is taking at least one course entirely online. Institutions selected as the top among Ohio’s online colleges and universities were chosen based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs. The rankings are compiled to provide insight into which institutions are leading the way in delivering quality online degree programs in Ohio.
University Business Magazine Honors Franklin as a Model of Excellence Franklin University was one of nine colleges and universities, nationwide, honored by University Business magazine in its Summer 2016 Models of Excellence recognition program for the University’s myTransferCredit course equivalvency tool. 6. | Clocktower 2017 | alumni.franklin.edu
FRANKLIN NEWS
The Models of Excellence program recognizes innovative approaches to encouraging and nurturing student success on campus. “At Franklin University, automating the credit reviewing process acts as an excellent customer service for prospective students, answering their questions and inspiring confidence in the school simultaneously,” says University Business senior editor Tim Goral. More than 90 percent of Franklin students transfer prior college coursework. To help applicants more quickly determine how their previously earned credits will impact degree-completion time and cost, administrators spent about seven months building a web-based application linked to a robust articulation database. MyTransferCredit, which rolled out in July 2014, has shortened that window from up to a few weeks to about 10 minutes.
Academic Programs Stand Out Affordability. Relevance. Accessibility. Quality. At Franklin, every aspect of our academic programs is important. Recently, several majors have received recognition for features that matter most to students and industries. The B.S. Public Administration major has been ranked a Top Nine Affordable Online Public Administration degree program by Best Value Schools. Using practiced and time-proven expertise, Best Value School helps identify those schools that can provide the best overall value for an educational dollar, the most available financial aid and assistance, the greatest support and service for the student, and the highest Return on Investment, in terms of what happens after graduation. Human Resources programs approved for renewal by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
SHRM acknowledged both the master’s and the undergraduate programs in human resources management have been approved for renewal in alignment with SHRM’s Human Resource Curriculum Guidebook and Templates. Throughout the world, only about 300 institutions have been acknowledged by SHRM as being in alignment with its suggested guides and templates, lending to the credibility of the rigor required to meet this standard. College Choice ranks Information Systems and Human Resources majors among top in nation The majors were ranked among Best Online Bachelor Programs, adding to the University’s reputation as a provider of quality, online learning. Franklin understands that working professionals have a myriad of factors to juggle when choosing to earn a degree including career, family and an education. Finding a credible online program, with a longstanding history, known and trusted by employers is of paramount importance. A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 7.
FRANKLIN NEWS
Faculty Recognized for Leadership and Scholarship Dr. Alex Heckman
Dr. Alex Heckman, department chair, public administration, and chair of the public administration programs, was elected Chair of the American Society of Public Administration Section on Public Administration Education (SPAE).
Dr. Karen Miner-Romanoff
Dr. Karen Miner-Romanoff, Associate Provost for Academic Quality and Executive Director, International Institute for Innovative Instruction, was selected to the Data Fellows Program by the National Consortium for Data Science (NCDS).
Dr. Andy Igonor
Dr. Debra Petrizzo
Dr. Andy Igonor was appointed dean of the Ross College of Business, overseeing the business curriculum, as well as the faculty and staff who support students in 18 degree programs. In addition, given his experience as department chair, and progress and vision relating to Franklin’s Computer and Information Sciences (CIS) programs, Dr. Igonor continues to supervise CIS programs and faculty as part of his new responsibilities. Dr. Wendell Seaborne
8. | Clocktower 2017 | alumni.franklin.edu
Accounting Program Chair Dr. Debra Petrizzo and Doctor of Business Administration Program Chair Dr. Wendell Seaborne were named president and vice president of the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) Great Lakes Regional Assembly.
FRANKLIN NEWS
In Memoriam:
Board of Trustees Updates GROWING OUR LEADERSHIP
Dr. Souren Soumbatiants
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r. Souren Soumbatiants, program chair for the Business Economics major passed away on Jan. 26, 2017 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Dr. Soumbatiants was a member of the Franklin University family for more than nine years and was integral to the launch of the program he chaired. He was born in Moscow, where he graduated from Moscow State University with an honor diploma, attended the University of Texas in Dallas and the University of South Carolina in Columbia. “Souren was a kind person, always volunteering to help others with work and projects,” said Dr. Martina Peng, chair of Franklin University’s Accounting, Finance and Economics Department. “As advisor to Franklin’s Students in Free Enterprise Group, he loved meeting with students to coach them and give advice.” Dr. Soumbatiants’ dedication to teaching earned him the Bailey Award in summer 2013. In their nominations, MBA students described Souren as committed and inspiring.
At its January 2017 Annual Meeting, the Board of Trustees elected Bruce Hagen as board chair and Clarke Price as vice chair, and re-elected Carl Johnson as secretary. The Board expressed its appreciation to Mary Duchi for her leadership as board chair in 2015-16.
Hagen is the regional executive and president of Marion General Hospital, a division of OhioHealth. He has more than 30 years’ experience in the healthcare industry and is a fellow of the American College of Health Care Executives. He joined the Franklin Board in 2010, has chaired the Academic/Student Committee, and served on the Partnerships and the Audit, Controls & Compliance Committees. Price is a Franklin alumnus who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 1969. He joined the Board in 2010, Bruce Hagen, Clarke Price, Carl Johnson, chairs the Audit, Controls Board Chair Vice Chair Secretary & Compliance Committee, and serves on the Communications & Advancement Committee. Price is a veteran of the U.S. Army, and the retired president and CEO of the Ohio Society of CPAs, where he was employed for 40 years.
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Johnson is director of manufacturing, North America Refinish at PPG Industries. He joined the Franklin Board in 2009, and has served as board secretary since 2014. Currently, he is a member of both the Finance and Partnership committees. He is also the proud father of a Franklin alumna; his daughter Cristina received her master’s degree in Marketing and Communication during the January 2017 Commencement. The Board also elected Jo Ann Davidson, chair of the Ohio Casino Control Commission and former Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, as a trustee emeritus. Davidson has served on the Board for 21 years, where she shared her expertise, advice and leadership with the Board and University, and served on Jo Ann Davidson the Finance and Investments committees. Davidson is an active Trustee Emeritus supporter of Franklin students and has established the Jo Ann Davidson Public Administration Leadership Scholarship to encourage students in the pursuit of a public administration degree. As a trustee emeritus, Davidson will continue to serve the Board and University as a trusted advisor. Jack Cartner was honored in January 2017 for his 40th anniversary as a trustee on the Board. Cartner is a Franklin alumnus, who graduated in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He served as president of the Alumni Association from 1981-82. As owner of MoTrim, Inc., Cartner has Jack Cartner numerous patents on inventions for hydraulic systems, dual Trustee cylinder boom arms, and other mechanisms related to industrial mowing machines. Cartner joined the Franklin Board of Trustees in 1977. During his 40 years on the Board, he has served on and chaired several committees including Development & Alumni Relations, and he currently serves on the Committee on Trusteeship Governance and chairs the Infrastructure Committee.
A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 9.
“An entrepreneurial spirit brings a different set of experiences to a situation.�
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B.S. Business Administration ‘00
ALUMNA SPOTLIGHT
Judge
Terri Jamison Terri Jamison serves the people of Franklin County as a common pleas court judge and it’s easy to see how her entrepreneurial spirit and heart for public service ultimately led her to the bench.
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udge Terri Jamison’s path to the courtroom has included a wide variety of experiences. While running her own business, Jamison completed coursework at Columbus State Community College and then a bachelor’s degree from Franklin. Education assisted in the growth of her insurance agency over the course of 16 years, and it also introduced her to a new passion. “Having my own insurance agency, I was out in the field writing policies, processing claims, working with attorneys … and that’s when I knew I wanted to study law.” With that goal in mind, Jamison sold her agency and attended law school. Upon graduation, she was employed as a Franklin County public defender in the municipal division. Soon after that, she established her own practice, where she focused in the areas of criminal, juvenile and domestic relations at the trial and appellate levels. In November 2012, she was elected to her current position. Once on the bench, Jamison became increasingly aware of a number of individuals returning to her courtroom for failure to pay child support. The typical way to deal with the situation is to find the person in contempt of court and sentence them to jail if they continue not to pay. Jamison knew that when an obligor was sent to jail, it meant that he or she was not working, and the child was still not being supported. Moreover, the taxpayers were billed approximately $79 per day to house the inmate, and if the child received public assistance, the taxpayers subsidized the child’s care. In short, nothing was being done to help set the family on the right track.
For this reason, Jamison worked with the Franklin County Child Support Enforcement Agency in 2014, to create the Compass Program. As Jamison explains, “An entrepreneurial spirit brings a different set of experiences to a situation.” Such is the case with Compass, which seeks to put the contempt process on hold and to link those owing child support with resources they need to become employed and retain employment. Backed by the authority of a court order, an obligor whose case is moved to the Compass docket is linked to resources and service providers who assist the court by tracking the individual’s progress within the needed services and reporting back for regularly scheduled review hearings. The individual’s willingness, or lack thereof, to work within the program determines whether the original contempt order will be dismissed or enforced with jail time. “I did not want to see the same people in my courtroom over and over again,” recalls the judge, “so we had to think out of the box and develop a program that benefits all parties. So far, we’re seeing a reduction in recidivism and jail time, both of which indicate we’re moving in the right direction.” The Compass Program serves as one example of a legal philosophy that Jamison sums up simply: “Ours is an adversarial system, and there are times when an individual may find his or her actions have put them on the wrong side of the law. The law may not be on your side but no matter the case, everyone has a right to be heard.”
A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 11.
Having started working at Nationwide just a few weeks after receiving the scholarship, it means a lot to know my co-workers are supporting my efforts and encouraging me.
“When I graduate in May, I want to show other survivors that there is life beyond being a victim of human trafficking.� I’m nearing the end of my studies and financial aid is running out, without this assistance, achieving my goal of a degree in criminal justice would have been a lot harder.
12. | Clocktower 2017 2016 | alumni.franklin.edu
Pursuing undergraduate degrees
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Carmalita Geter &Roland Slade III
Scholarships have a higher value than just dollars and cents. For Carmalita Geter and Roland Slade, two recipients of the Corporate Connections Scholarship, the acknowledgement has brought encouragement and renewed determination.
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armalita Geter and Roland Slade III have quite a bit in common. They share a home. They share a family. They are both pursuing undergraduate degrees at Franklin. And in mid-November, they shared in the encouragement and generosity of a group of dedicated Nationwide Insurance associates. “We decided to go out for breakfast and as Carmalita was driving my phone rang,” recalls Roland. “It was the Alumni Office calling to tell me I had just been awarded a Corporate Connections Scholarship. We were both so excited and decided breakfast would now be a celebration.” As the couple neared the restaurant just a few minutes later, the screen on Carmalita’s dashboard flashed an incoming phone number. “Roland looked at the screen, looked at me and then back at the screen before saying ‘That’s the number that just called me.’ What were the odds that we would both be selected to receive this honor?!” Carmalita asks with a laugh. “That breakfast turned out to be one we’ll never forget!” The news Carmalita and Roland received that day, each receiving a $1,500 scholarship, was made possible through the efforts of Corporate Connections, an African American men’s mentoring and
networking group of associates employed by Nationwide. Founded in 2003 with 14 participants, today the group has grown to over 200 members across the company. Membership ranges from front line customer service representatives to middle-level managers to executive officers, including the chief marketing officer. According to John Jackson, associate vice president – mergers and acquisitions, and the chair of the Corporate Connections Scholarship Committee, “Our organization’s values really say it all. We see the inherent worth and value in all people, we act with honesty and integrity, we are focused on strengthening others and we welcome, respect and honor diverse life experiences and perspectives. That’s what we strive to model in our work, our relationships and our lives.” Over the past six years, 36 Franklin students have received a total of $54,000 in scholarship assistance through the donations of Corporate Connections members and matching funds provided by the Nationwide Foundation.
assistance, achieving my goal of a degree in criminal justice would have been a lot harder.” For Roland, an applied psychology major, there’s a deeper meaning as well. “Watching her (Carmalita) studying, made me realize I needed to get my degree, too. The scholarship was a real boost for me, as I begin the process. Having started working at Nationwide just a few weeks after receiving the scholarship, it means a lot to know my co-workers are supporting my efforts and encouraging me.” So what’s next? Carmalita is looking forward to graduation later this year, then it’s on to pursue her master’s degree in the hopes of one day helping combat human trafficking in our community. For Roland, he’s anxious to complete this first step on his way to becoming a psychiatrist. And as for Corporate Connections, Jackson says they will continue to do their best to live out the group’s motto: “Each One, Teach One to Reach One” by helping working adults achieve their human potential through higher education.
“I’m nearing the end of my studies and financial aid is running out,” shared Carmalita, “without this
A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 13.
AMBITION-DRIVEN
Bachelor’s ● Master’s ● Doctorate
“Franklin Makes It Possible” took on new meaning this winter term, as the University welcomed more than 60 new doctoral students to programs in business, healthcare and instructional design leadership.
The decision to earn a doctorate isn’t made quickly; prospective students have a lot to consider. However, applications started to flow in soon after the University’s July 2016 announcement that its first three doctorates had been approved by the Higher Learning Commission.
Online coursework with two on-campus colloquia provide ultimate flexibility for working professionals who want to differentiate themselves with a relevant credential. All three degrees are designed to be completed in three years and feature a unique combination of elements to support student success.
“I didn’t really have any hesitations. I knew right away that Franklin was the school for me. I knew that a doctorate in healthcare is what I wanted from the beginning to help make an impact on the community. Having an Asian background, I am truly inspired to help the Asian community here in Columbus, Ohio, because it’s grown so much over the past few years,” said AnhThu Thai, who also earned her Master of Healthcare Education at Franklin.
• The embedded dissertation accelerates completion time by integrating learning acquisition with research application.
The applied doctorates in business administration, healthcare administration and instructional design leadership are a natural extension of the University’s mission and reputation for offering programs that align with industry demand.
• Cross-disciplinary learning communities and colloquia improve persistence by strengthening bonds among students and between faculty and advisees.
While starting anything new has a certain level of uncertainty, many of our current doctoral students are comforted by the familiar. Tomika Gordon, a Franklin alumna and an instructional assistant with Columbus City Schools, praises Franklin’s faculty. “The positive part is the faculty. They’re amazing teachers. I’ve been at other universities prior to this, but the faculty members at Franklin are what keep me coming.” While other students new to Franklin, like Daniel Falkenheim, a laboratory supervisor at Abbott Nutrition with 15 years of professional experience, chose Franklin over several other universities because the program structure enables him to contribute to his career at a higher level, while also achieving his personal goals. “What drew me to the program was that I could work at my job while I am progressing through the program and find out what I can do to change my organization, and do it in real time.”
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• A generous transfer credit policy enables students to transfer up to 24 credit hours from previous doctoral coursework, professional credentials and licensures. Transfer credit enables students to start fresh without starting over – and saves them time and money toward degree completion.
As an alumna, having earned three other degrees at Franklin, Angel Harris knows that she’ll gain the expertise she’s looking for to help her make a difference. “I believe that earning my doctorate will really help me hone my leadership skills and build out my body of knowledge within my discipline, which is nonprofit management. I want to learn how to ask tough questions of myself, of my leadership team and my staff to really make my organization an even stronger one than it is today.” Despite their strong professional ambition many students, like Tiffany Franklin, an insurance professional with 15 years of experience, cites the potential to motivate and inspire others as one of the underlying reasons for pursuing a doctorate. “Earning my doctorate sets an example for my teenage sons. If I can do it, they can do it. It doesn’t matter where you come from or what circumstances occur in your life. You can do anything if you put your mind to it and you persevere.” Hear more from Franklin’s new doctorate students at: franklin.edu/doctoral
INTRODUCING OUR FIRST DOCTORAL COHORT ENROLLMENT BY PROGRAM:
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11
enrolled
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41
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BY GENDER:
DPS
11
enrolled
35 ALUMNI
63
FRANKLIN
28
BY AGE: 35
or younger
36-45 46-55 56 +
12 26 16 9
BY STATE: 3% 3 Northeast % 1 Midwest 80% West 1%
1
1 3 46 1
South 16
1
Teach after retirement
1 3
WHY earn a doctoral degree?
1
%
1
EMPLOYERS:
THEIR MOTIVATIONS:
1
2
Business
35
Advance in their profession/ Stay relevant Personal goal/ Lifelong learning
JOB FIELDS: Healthcare
Education
Business:
Education • Business Operations • Financial
Healthcare:
Healthcare Support • Registered Nurses • Administrative Services
Instructional Design Leadership:
Training • Counseling & Guidance • Education
*Sample by category
*Sample by category
A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 15.
Lessons Learned: Travels of a Fulbright Specialist Karen Miner-Romanoff, Ph.D.
Values are the most fundamental determinants of behavior. The only barrier that can be built against the evil of the human heart is the development of values from early childhood, nurtured and reinforced until adulthood, that are profoundly respectful of all life, animal and human, and horrified by suffering. Like grace, values can redeem human nature. – Professor Victor Neil (1996)
I came to South Africa as a Fulbright Specialist intending to learn of the differences in our educational and criminogenic approaches to crime and, perhaps, generate innovative pedagogical and cultural insights about the role of training, development, collaboration and education toward improving society and decreasing crime. The days were filled with an intense and widely swinging emotional pendulum. There were times when I was so inspired by the insight of my host institution in its mission to combat chronic violence by fostering peace from within communities. As the continent’s largest research institution, the work of the Human Science Research Council can appear overwhelming in its breadth and depth. Yet, its members march forward, conducting, discussing and disseminating interdisciplinary research in a constant and intersectoral cycle of data collection, education and evaluation, all with a sense of collective responsibility. I was also in South Africa during a time of great unrest as the country prepared for general elections. Opposition groups
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murdered multiple candidates, and violent protests continue. With a 43 percent poverty rate, chronic and brazen crime, and an ongoing AIDS crisis, the country struggles for peace. Yet, as one of the strongest economies on the continent, illegal immigrants stream in from many African countries further stressing already fragile ecosystems and services. Most here recognize the power of education to change the cultural norms that can lead to chronic violence, especially for women and children. As one woman explained to me, “many women do not feel loved if their husbands do not beat them, and many men feel it is their obligation to beat their wives.” It is not only formal education or higher education that can alone change a nation. It must come from all sectors, all regions, all ages and all segments of society. This they understand. I had the opportunity to be exposed to vast and diverse populations. My projects included faculty development with 30 female faculties who are conducting research on gender
inequality, violence and the intersections of health and attitudes. It is their mission to educate the next generation with transformative curriculum that acknowledges diverse cultural norms and values while embracing and forwarding positive change. To publish their research is more than professional acclaim for them; it is vital to inspire new understandings, behaviors, and theoretical revolutions. Within this complex context, there are extreme juxtapositions; the fierce egalitarian symbols of South Africa abound. Unlike our own, their constitution needs no interpretation as it speaks to justice and fairness for all people. Eleven official languages celebrate the country’s diverse people. And, political power is diffused within a multitude of systems that acknowledges the country’s historical struggles. But, in spite of many triumphs and economic attainments, progress has been slow for many and frustration and conflict rises. My exchange was scholarly, but my experiences were social, cultural and personal, and one of the best came in a series of daily discussions. Because it was not safe for me to travel alone, I had a driver whose name is “Shepard.” Over the weeks, Shepard and I talked for hours about politics, crime, global education, economics and policy. His questions and insights were poignant, and he was hungry for conversation.
Shepard has two children and two jobs. He has read one book in his life, and it took him a year. We talked of education, and he has tried to go to school many times. We talked of studying with his kids and what a college education would mean to his family. Yet, the cost of education is simply too high for most in South Africa. Shepard and I talked of books and learning. He vowed to try again and begin, one course at a time, to reach for the degree that seems so unreachable. What I learned from Shepard I will never forget. I still think of him today and consider knowing him one of my greatest privileges of this work. Our countries are distinct yet similar in many ways, and I often stand humbled as I returned with many new ideas for innovative and inclusive curriculum that have a great deal of application to our own students and mission. This educational exchange is not simply academic; it is a cultural and social exchange in which all parties learn and share in a symbiotic dance of curiosity, respect and revelations.
Dr. Karen Miner-Romanoff is a Fulbright specialist on assignment in South Africa and serves as associate provost for academic quality and executive director of the International Institute for Innovative Instruction at Franklin University. She holds a Ph.D. in public policy and administration with an emphasis in criminology, a juris doctorate, and a master’s in public policy and administration.
A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 17.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Memories and Motivation:
How One Person’s Past Impacts the Future for Many Each year, the Alumni Office works to find new opportunities to engage with our graduates and assist you in sharing your talents, treasure and time with our students. We’re looking for ideas on how to elevate the student experience, and alumni to help make those ideas possible. Remember when “dinner” came from a vending machine in Frasch Hall? When weekends meant group projects and papers? When you had to wonder whether all the time and effort were worth it? Alumnus James Westfall (B.S. Finance ‘98) remembers. “I know the challenges of balancing employment and classwork. As a full-time student at Franklin, I was also working full time. It was a long, lonely road, filled with many sacrifices. Sometimes, I’d wake up on Monday morning wondering where the ever-elusive ‘weekend’ my co-workers and friends spoke of had gone.” It’s because he remembers, that James has chosen to become more engaged with his alma mater. “Back in 2012, I had the honor of working with fellow alumni, faculty and staff, to create the Alumni Military Scholarship Fund (AMSF). That project has now awarded more than $18,000 in scholarships to current Franklin students serving in the military, their dependents and veterans. Because of that experience, and the positive impact the AMSF is making, I want to do more.” And he is. James is now working with other alumni and the Student Services Office developing a video series that provides encouragement to students throughout their Franklin experience.
“I remember what it was like, so it fills me with a real sense of satisfaction that I can help, even in a small way, to make the path to a Franklin degree easier for someone else.”
While there’s effort involved, James thinks it’s worth it: “I remember what it was like, so it fills me with a real sense of satisfaction that I can help, even in a small way, to make the path to a Franklin degree easier for someone else. There were people who definitely supported me along the way, and now I can do the same for others. It’s a great feeling!” If you “remember when”, and would like to be more involved, contact us at alumni@franklin.edu or if you want to make a donation to advance one of Franklin’s student assistance programs, visit alumni.franklin.edu and click “Give.”
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE
ALUMNI
MILITARY SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS The Alumni Military Scholarship was established in 2012 to “serve those who serve” and is open to military personnel of any branch, their spouses and dependents, and veterans. In its fourth year, the University’s generous donors were able to award five students $1,000 each. U.S. NAVY / U.S. ARMY RESERVE
WE DO “Make It Possible!” In May 2016, Franklin’s faculty, staff, new graduates and alumni joined forces to launch the “Make It Possible” Fund. The fund was created to provide discretionary money to assist students with immediate needs, such as books, tuition assistance and fees, and supply immediate resources to assist those who might not be able to continue with their Franklin education. Dean of Students Dr. Lynne Hull summed it up best: “Far too often, our advising team must try to aid students who are at-risk of dropping out due to some unforeseen financial hardship. To have ‘Make It Possible’ funds available will undoubtedly encourage students to remain on the path toward graduation.” In only a short time, “Make It Possible” has already lived up to its name. Recently, the Alumni Office received this message of gratitude from Daniele S., one of many students whose goals of completing their studies are challenged by unexpected financial hardships:
DAVID BARTHOLOMEW U.S. AIR FORCE VETERAN MICHAEL DISALVO
Thank you for the consideration and support of the grant funds to help meet the gap between my financial aid and the completion of my degree. This semester is my last and I will be receiving my degree from Franklin in May, however this would not have happened without the assistance you have provided with this grant. I am 39 years old and there were times that I thought I would never hold a degree. When I realized that I was almost $600 short this semester, I thought I would have to postpone my degree again, and possibly never complete it. Thank you for ensuring that I was able to meet this dream and move forward to the next phase of my life. Your generosity will not be forgotten. – Sincerely, Daniele S.
OHIO AIR NATIONAL GUARD JEANNETTE FRASHLER U.S. ARMY VETERAN TERRENCE HUGHLEY WIFE OF COMBAT VETERAN HEIDI VANGUNDY
No gift is too small to positively impact the life of someone who has served our country. If you would like to make a contribution to the Alumni Military Scholarship Fund, visit alumni.franklin.edu or contact the Office of Alumni Engagement and Development.
We’re inviting all of our alumni to share in the opportunity to “Make it Possible” for other current students like Daniele. To make a contribution to the “Make It Possible” Fund, please visit us at alumni.franklin.edu or call the Office of Alumni Engagement and Development at 614.947.6062. Together, WE DO “Make It Possible!”
Corporate Connections Scholarship Winners
Each fall, the members of Corporate Connections, an African American men’s mentoring and networking group of Nationwide Insurance associates from across the United States, award scholarships to students from Franklin University and The Ohio State University. In November, six Franklin students were honored with scholarships totaling $9,000. This year’s recipients are:
Rodney Clarke Markeia Dover Carmalita Geter
Yati Morales Amanda Ruddy Roland Slade III
To learn more about the Corporate Connections Scholarship and two of this year’s recipients, see page 13.
A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 19.
MAKING A DIFFERENECE
19 02 LEADERSHIP CIRCLE SCHOLARSHIP
Attendees at the 1902 Leadership Circle reception included recipients, their families, donors to the scholarship, Franklin faculty and staff.
The 1902 Leadership Circle Scholarship, established in 2009, is awarded annually to undergraduate and graduate students who make a positive contribution to the economic and/or social good of their local communities. This competitive scholarship requires students to write an essay, comparing their drive, tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit, to that of the University’s namesake Benjamin Franklin. Donors to the Leadership Circle Scholarship make an annual contribution of $1,902 in tribute to the year Franklin University was established. Since its inception, the Leadership Circle Scholarship program has provided scholarships to 29 students who are making a difference by enriching the lives of their communities.
HEELA AZIZI
SAMANTHA ARENAS
Master of Healthcare Administration
B.S. Healthcare Management
Heela Azizi is pursuing a Master of Healthcare Administration degree while simultaneously completing medical school. Heela has been part of the Keeping Families Healthy project, which educates parents on immunizations, nutrition plans and lifestyle modifications for at-risk children in her local community of Flushing, New York. Through this, Heela firmly believes knowledge is part of the healing process and empowering patients to be able to be self-sufficient will improve the quality of life of all people. Her goal upon completion of her medical and master’s in Healthcare Administration degrees is to be able to educate people about the components of a healthy lifestyle, in order for them to know how to better maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Samantha Arenas is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management, having worked at Mount Carmel nearly her entire adult life. A resident of Grove City, Ohio, Samantha became involved in Mount Carmel’s Outreach program for the homeless and uninsured. Shortly thereafter, Samantha knew she wanted to get more involved and, after visiting the site and seeing firsthand the kind of care Outreach provided the community, Samantha developed the first annual Mount Carmel Group Outreach Speed Drive, providing those in need with everyday essentials. The drive was a huge success and is now an annual event at Mount Carmel. Paraphrasing Ben Franklin, Samantha reflected: “I was told, I was taught and I got involved.”
DANAE STEWART
SAMUEL RENFROE
M.S. in Business Psychology
Master of Public Administration
Danae Stewart is a resident of Corona, Calif., and is working long distance toward a M.S. in Business Psychology degree, while founding a nonprofit organization called Project Unleashed, which is designed to bring maturity and transformation into people’s lives while remaining connected to larger social needs. In her application for this scholarship, Danae stated the goal of Project Unleashed is to enable individuals to live with character, integrity and trustworthiness as they chase their unique life mission. While people may have similar destinations, the paths to completing those similar missions are distinctive. Danae describes her job as helping others find and fulfill their mission, while maintaining a virtuous lifestyle. Her goal upon completing her degree is to be able to scale this impactful organization.
Samuel Renfroe is pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree. For the past four years, he has been the director of grant development at North Central State College and has been instrumental in obtaining federal, state and private grants for his community to assist with education, training and a mentoring program for middle school students. Through Sam’s efforts, programs have been developed to enable students to stay enrolled and complete their degrees. His motivation is a simple one: to see these students graduate each May and obtain new jobs and promotions. Sam is now also responsible for government relations at North Central State and, by earning his MPA, he plans to continue to help others reach their education goals. Sam resides in Mansfield, Ohio.
If you would like to make a contribution to the 1902 Leadership Circle Scholarship, visit alumni.franklin.edu or contact the Office of Alumni Engagement and Development at 614.947.6062. 20. | Clocktower 2017 | alumni.franklin.edu
CLASS NOTES
MAKING A DIFFERENECE CLASS NOTES
IN MEMORIAM
CLASS NOTES
Elfi DiBella ’93 serves as president and CEO of the YWCA Columbus and was featured on the November 2016 cover of Columbus CEO Magazine. John Stinnett ‘99 recently defended his dissertation and has received his doctorate in information management from Syracuse University.
2000s
Steven Wiseman ‘99 has been working for the University of California since 2011 as the manager of talent acquisition at UC Irvine Health in Orange County. He recently received a promotion to become the director of talent acquisition at UC San Francisco Health System and Campus. He and his partner are excited to relocate and start exploring the Bay Area. Kim Sanchez ‘02 retired from the federal government on March 31, 2016, after 32 years of service. Kim and her husband have moved from New Mexico to Colorado, where they plan to spend their retirement years when not traveling to visit family and friends across the United States. John Fulton ‘03 spent 30 days in Oman as a part of the Franklin Visiting Scholar program in February 2016. The University conducts the program with the Modern College of Business and Science in Muscat, the capital and largest city of Oman. John spent his time teaching an undergraduate computer science course, assisting with course and instruction evaluation, and conducting a seminar for students, faculty and staff. Kurry Klingel ’03 earned Jianghan University’s 2016 Distinguished Foreign Teacher of the Year award. There are about 40 foreign teachers at the university from all over the world, teaching a variety of subjects. Jeffrey K. Scott ’04 is the Notre Dame College police chief. In September 2016, he successfully completed a rigorous 10-weeks of training to graduate from the prestigious FBI National Academy. Jonda Vance ’06 has joined Battelle Memorial Institute as a research scientist quality management systems specialist. She currently supports the advanced analytics and healthcare research group in developing quality systems for their clients.
Natasha Gates ’09 is a corporate compliance and reporting paralegal in the legal department at Washington Prime Group Inc., a real estate investment trust company. 2010s
1990s
WHAT’S NEW & NOTABLE
James Scibelli ’12 serves as senior operations manager for Verizon Wireless, managing the day-to-day operations of two mobile switching centers in the greaterPittsburgh, Penn., area. Brandee (Wilson) Terry ’12 started her own small business in March of 2016 joining LuLaRoe as a fashion consultant. Nichole Bandenburg ’14 serves as Cooking Matters coordinator, Ohio SNAP-Ed program and co-author of a $55,000 grant from the Walmart State Giving Program. The funding will allow the SNAP-Ed Cooking Matters team to provide lesson plan meals and groceries during two, 6-week Cooking Matters courses at 20 select Ohio counties.
Have some news you’d like to share? Submit your Class Note online. Your fellow alumni would love to know what’s new with you. Share your news about career changes, marriages, accomplishments, new affiliations, and additions to your family. If you would like to submit a Class Note, go to alumni.franklin.edu and click on the “Stay Connected” link. Once you log into your alumni account, you can submit your news to our office for posting online and in the next issue of Clocktower. We look forward to hearing from you!
Reva Alexander Robert Bacon Patricia Beecher Bruce Bennett Dana Binford Michael Bowersock Curtis Braswell Stephen Brenner Dan Browne George Bubalo Mary Bubalo Michael Campbell Harold Clyburn Terri Cuckler Kristopher Dalzell Linda Darnell-Blakeway Robert Devolld Edward Dimin Michael Donohoe Phillip Ennis Joseph Filippi William Foster Edmund Giorgione Carrie Goss Audrey Hall Katriece Hightower-Lockett Melvin Hyler Robert James Nakeysha Johnson Michael Karbula Paulie Kessler Daniel Lahmon Charles Longshore Linda Lowry James McCoy Terry Meinberg Thomas Miller P. Scott Morley David Noethlich Virginia Pattison Andrew Pearson John Renault Lucille Rich Charles Rodgers Craig Saulters Lee Sensibaugh William Six Donald Stouder Jamie Sweeney Robert Tanner John Taylor Sheila Thurman Herbert Truax Marjorie Ulrey Larry Voelker Shane Von Deylen Gary Wade Chari White Rene’ Yandrich
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A magazine for alumni and friends of Franklin University | 21.
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