Beyond Borders: How Studying Abroad Changed Two Students' Lives
Jumpstart to Leadership: Adrian's Path from Purpose to Principal
The Smartest Investment: Empowering Student Financial Leaders
Zipping through campus during Muskie Palooza
Much Ado About Giving: The Gardners' High-Impact Encore
Muskies in London: Alumni Connections and High Impact Learning Across the Pond
Coach of the Year: Wahle Leads Muskies to Historic Season and Bright Future
Minute with a Muskingum Society Member
Giving Back Through Charitable Bequests
From the President's Desk
Dear Muskingum Alumni and Friends,
Across the nation, conversations about higher education increasingly center on value, return on investment, and workforce preparation. These are essential questions—and at Muskingum University, we are answering them with confidence, purpose, and action.
Muskingum has a long-standing commitment to providing an education that fosters intellectual, social, physical, and spiritual growth—preparing students for meaningful lives of service in both the workplace and their communities. Today, that commitment continues through our focus on delivering a high-value educational experience. Whether students are just beginning their academic journey or advancing their careers, we equip them for a lifetime of personal fulfillment and professional success.
This dedication is nationally recognized: U.S. News & World Report ranks Muskingum as the #1 Best Value School in Ohio and #1 in Ohio for Social Mobility—affirming both the affordability and transformative impact of a Muskingum education.
At the core of our mission are the strong relationships we build—among students, faculty, staff, alumni, and mentors, and between the University and the communities we serve. These relationships take shape in wellequipped classrooms, off-campus experiences, summer intensives, athletic competition, and in the workplace. They are what truly set Muskingum apart.
As we look to the future, we invite you—our alumni—to engage with us. Your insights, mentorship, and support are vital as we continue to create pathways of opportunity for all students. Whether through internships, networking, philanthropy, or sharing your own story, you help ensure that the transformative power of a Muskingum education will continue for generations to come.
Together, we will live into our values, expand opportunities, and equip students to lead with purpose in a complex and changing world. Thank you for being an essential part of this remarkable community.
With gratitude and Muskie pride,
President Susan S. Hasseler
W HERE I NN OVATIO N M EETS OPPORTU N ITY
Engineering At Muskingum
In the rapidly evolving world of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM), Muskingum University is not just keeping up - it’s setting the pace. With recent grant funding and state-of-the-art equipment, Muskingum’s General Engineering program is empowering students with the hands-on tools and forward-thinking curriculum they need to innovate, solve problems, and shape the industries of tomorrow.
chemical hygiene officer said. “It’s a state supported grant program, where we partnered with Zane State College, and through that, we were able to acquire approximately $450,000 in new equipment.”
One of the standout aspects of the program is its commitment to preparing students for successful careers with high-impact experiences. Richard Taylor, associate professor of physics and engineering and founding chair of the program, highlights how the curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam - a critical step toward the professional engineering licensure.
“Many schools don’t require their students to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam,” said Richard. “We require our students to take it their senior year, which gives them a step toward professional growth in the industry.”
Seeking to provide the best possible resources for students, Muskingum actively pursues external funding to enhance its academic programs.
“Engineering is one program where we've secured a couple of grants through the Ohio Department of Higher Education’s Regionally Aligned Priorities in Delivering Skills (RAPIDS) program,” Paul Szalay, associate provost, professor of chemistry, and
The funding has enabled Muskingum to acquire state-of-the-art engineering equipment, enhancing hands-on learning for students. Some of the latest additions include a TecQuipment Centrifugal Pump Test Cart for the fluid mechanics course, a TecQuipment Thermal Power Plant with Steam Engine Trainer for the thermodynamics course, a TecQuipment Universal Testing Machine for the materials science course, and more.
Richard emphasized that the new equipment closely mirrors what students will encounter in the field. “It’s very similar. Students are getting the fundamentals of the broad areas within engineering to prepare them for a wide variety of jobs in the engineering field,” he added.
Junior engineering student Evan Laraba ’26 echoed this sentiment, noting how professors help guide students in discovering their preferred engineering focus. “We get a pretty broad engineering knowledge with the range of classes they have us take, especially with some of the new ones they’re implementing,” said Evan. “It’s a little mechanical, electrical, and civil. I think they give you a lot of options with different sub-areas so you can figure out what you want to do.”
Senior engineering student Hannah Dodd ’25 has already taken advantage of the new equipment and is thrilled about the opportunities it provides.
“I've done a little bit with the tensile strength tester, which basically stretches metal to its breaking point,” she said. “It’s been really cool to not only learn the concepts in class but then also see them in action during lab days. The professor walks us through how the machine works, and instead of just looking at before-and-after pictures in a textbook, we get to see exactly how the metal reacts in real time.”
For her senior capstone project, Hannah used one of the department’s 3D printers - something she says she loves working with. Although she graduated in May, she’s excited that future engineering Muskies will continue to benefit from the new equipment.
To further support students in their senior capstone projects, assistant professor of physics and engineering Yingxiao Song took students to the American Society for Engineering Education conference. This event emphasized innovation, collaboration, and excellence in engineering education and research.
“This was a great opportunity for students to showcase their senior projects, which they had worked on for an entire year,” said Yingxiao. “They were able to network with other students, receive feedback from professors, and broaden their perspectives by seeing what students from other colleges are doing.”
Muskingum’s commitment to innovation extends beyond engineering to all STEMM programs. As part of this commitment, Muskingum is working to enhance
the Boyd Science Center to create a modern learning environment that meets the evolving needs of STEMM education and career preparation.
Paul emphasized the importance of staying ahead of industry advancements. “STEMM is a very dynamic field. We always want to ensure that the educational opportunities we're providing and the programs we are offering are aligned with how STEMM is continuing to develop in the 21st century.
“ “
Because we're always looking for opportunities to take advantage of new pedagogical approaches and technologies, we look for opportunities to upgrade the facilities and to create classroom environments that are more flexible, with better virtual connection to external partners or employers, Paul explained.
With continued investments in cutting-edge equipment and innovative learning spaces, Muskingum University remains dedicated to shaping the future of STEMM education.
Beyond Borders:
How Studying Abroad Changed Two Students’ Lives
For many college students, studying abroad feels like a distant dream—an exciting idea that is often dismissed as too expensive, too complicated, or just too far out of reach. But the truth is, global learning experiences are more accessible than they might think. Scholarships, supportive faculty, and a network of resources can turn that dream into reality.
At Muskingum University, the Office of Cultural Engagement and Inclusion (CEI) is dedicated to helping students explore international opportunities— whether that means studying independently or in small groups. These programs not only open doors to new cultures and experiences, but also help students build confidence, adaptability, and global awareness, all qualities that employers are eager to see.
Two Muskingum students, Leah Hickman and Brooke Waito, decided to take that leap. And in doing so, they discovered much more than just unfamiliar places, they discovered new versions of themselves.
From the UK to Ohio: Leah’s Story
Leah Hickman came to Muskingum from the University of Worcester in the United Kingdom. With 40 universities to choose from for her study abroad semester, Leah narrowed her options to 10. It was
during this process that she met Muskingum’s Valerie Smith, director of the CEI office. That conversation changed everything. “I just knew it was Muskingum I had to come to,” Leah said. “It felt like a safe place with a great community.”
Adjusting to life in New Concord was not difficult for Leah, though the five-hour time difference made evening chats with family back home a challenge. Fortunately, she found a dedicated support system in the friends she made on campus. She even joined the sisterhood of F.A.D., proving that you don’t have to be at a school for four years to fully engage in student life.
Studying abroad comes with its fair share of surprises and for Leah, one of the biggest was America’s lack of what she calls “proper tea.”
“I couldn’t believe it, just sweet tea everywhere!” she laughed. “Back home, tea is a whole tradition.”
On the other side, she found a new favorite in an American staple: Chipotle. “We do not have anything like it in the UK, and I am obsessed now. I wish I could take it home with me.”
Leah said one of the biggest differences she noticed was in the classroom. “Classes here are smaller, more interactive, and the professors truly care,” she explained.
“They go above and beyond to help you succeed.” While she loved everything about her experience, she admits there is one thing she could do without: “The stairs. Definitely, the stairs.”
Her decision to study abroad was not made alone, her family played a significant role. “My grandad always encouraged me to explore the world. My nan told me to go to America like I always dreamed. My parents were behind me 100 percent.” Leah saved up £10,000 to make her journey to Muskingum happen and says she would do it again without hesitation.
Her advice to other students considering studying abroad? “Do it. It does not matter how much it is. You can do it.” Leah says the experience has made her more confident, independent, and open-minded.
““I’ve learned that I can make friends easily, that I don’t always need someone to come with me, and that people around the world are more alike than different.
From Ohio to Worcester: Brooke’s Journey
Brooke Waito always knew she wanted something more from her college experience. She wanted to meet new people, travel, and push herself out of her comfort zone. When she chose Muskingum, it was with the clear goal of studying abroad. That dream came true when she spent a semester at the University of Worcester, Leah’s home campus.
“It was absolutely amazing,” Brooke said. “It totally exceeded my expectations. From the moment I arrived, it felt like home.” Brooke was especially impressed by the faculty. “The professors were welcoming, helpful, and patient,” she said. One of her favorite classes was a forensic science course she took just for fun, and it ended up introducing her to a potential future career.
Living abroad also came with some surprises. “There was so much public transportation, but you could also walk everywhere. I loved that,” she said. “Although it did take some getting used to— everyone walking all over the street!”
She also discovered that while she was still speaking English, the vocabulary was not always familiar. Brooke said, “They call an umbrella a ‘brolly’ and a gas station a ‘petrol station.’”
And she didn't just explore England, Brooke traveled to seven different countries during her semester abroad: Switzerland, Scotland, Denmark, Poland, Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy. “It was incredible. I learned that I could travel on my own, and that I am capable of more than I thought.”
While at Worcester, Brooke also joined the Dance Society, reconnecting with a passion she had not pursued in years. “It was one of my favorite parts of the experience,” she said.
Looking back, Brooke says the experience changed her in ways she did not expect. “I’m more confident, I’m not afraid to meet new people anymore, and I’ve learned to problem-solve on the fly,” she said. Her advice? “It will change your life, do it. Even if it is just for a week, it is so worth it.”
She hopes to move to Spain for a year after graduation, continuing her international journey.
Support at Every Step
Both Leah and Brooke’s experiences were made possible in part thanks to Muskingum’s CEI office. Valerie Smith has worked with dozens of students over the years and sees the impact firsthand.
Every student I’ve ever worked with comes back changed, Valerie said. They return more mature, more confident, and with a deeper appreciation for other cultures.
The CEI office helps students stay connected with both Valerie and their advisors while abroad, and provides support in choosing programs, applying for funding, and navigating planning. Federal grants can provide financial support for eligible students.
Valerie’s advice for students who are on the fence about studying abroad. “Find a friend to go with you. It helps you stay excited and less likely to back out. And meet with me as early as possible—it makes planning so much easier.”
A Life-Changing Choice
Whether it is traveling across the ocean or welcoming the world to your doorstep, studying abroad is more than just a semester away—it is a gateway to personal growth, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable experiences.
For Leah and Brooke, it was the best decision they ever made. And for any student still wondering if it is possible, they both say the same thing: Yes. You can do it.
Scan the QR code to learn more about our High Impact Experiences Grant and how Alumni can support it.
Adrian's Jumpstart
To School Leadership
Muskingum University’s Graduate Teacher Education Jumpstart program isn’t just a path to a teaching license—it’s a launchpad for career transformation. For Adrian Williams ’12 ’20G, a lifelong Zanesville resident, Jumpstart did more than set him on a professional path to teaching—it helped him rediscover a dream he had set aside and transform it into a lasting impact.
Adrian began his college journey with plans to become a teacher. He enrolled at Muskingum after a brief semester elsewhere, and like many, encountered life detours along the way.
“Originally when I was doing my undergrad, I was going into education,” he said. “But there were some different life changes that happened, and I had taken time off school. I eventually got to the point where I had to finish and get my degree. I had always wanted to go into education, but it kind of took a back seat for a while.”
But the passion for teaching never left him. When he was ready to revisit that calling, Adrian turned to a familiar face: Nancy Bradley, retired Graduate Teacher Education advisor at Muskingum. With Nancy’s support, Adrian took the next step in his journey by enrolling in Jumpstart.
Through Jumpstart, he earned his Intervention Specialist license and went on to complete his Master of Arts in Teaching.
“It might sound cliché, but it was something that changed my life. It gave me an opportunity that I don't think I would have had otherwise, because of the route that my journey had taken, Adrian stated.
“He’s stayed connected to Muskingum ever since—first by enrolling in the Educational Leadership program, which paved the way for his current role as principal of Zanesville Middle School, and now as he completes coursework toward his superintendent license. “The whole experience for me has been top notch,” he said. “That’s why I continued to go back and why I recommend Muskingum to others.”
Adrian’s career had always been rooted in his community. He’s lived in Zanesville his entire life and attended the very schools he now helps lead. “When we have students come through, chances are I know someone they’re connected to,” he said. “That builds trust—and it helps us create a better environment for learning.
“As a teacher, I felt I only made a small impact because I was working with the same students every day. I wanted to become a principal to interact with more students and make a larger impact.
“That’s been my favorite part of this role—not just working with students daily but also engaging with stakeholders. Whether it’s community partners, talking to the Attorney General’s office about our programs, or involving families, those connections matter. The more families are involved, the better our kids do. That’s been the greatest thing for me. It's why I wake up every day and I'm excited to come and be a principal here at Zanesville Middle School.”
Adrian’s journey is also marked by strong relationships—including childhood friend and fellow educator Cedric Harris ’16G, who is currently the Vice Principal at Zanesville High School. Though they completed the Jumpstart Program at different times, their shared experience shaped how they each approach leadership.
“We had many of the same instructors and shared a lot of the same philosophies,” Adrian said. “When we worked together at the middle school, we were focused on building relationships with students and making their experience memorable—just like ours had been.”
From student to teacher, from educator to leader, Adrian’s path has been guided by resilience, relationships, and the power of second chances. Thanks to Muskingum’s Jumpstart Program, a goal that once seemed out of reach became not only possible—but transformational.
Now, he’s helping the next generation find their way, too.
Designed for both teachers and those looking to enter the special education field, the Jumpstart program offers a direct route to earning an Intervention Specialist license accelerated and online. It’s one of many programs Muskingum offers to support the continuum of learners— meeting individuals where they are and helping them move forward with purpose. Scan the QR code to learn more about the program.
Empowering Student Financial Leaders
What began as an inquiry from a student has evolved into a student club that provides a unique, handson experience working with the Board of Trustee’s Investment Committee, which oversees Muskingum’s endowment fund.
During his senior year, Blake Cooper ’21, a public accounting, business management, and economics major, asked why Muskingum didn’t have an Investment Club. He then founded the first-ever Investment Club with club advisor Assistant Professor of Economics Dr. Arjun Sondhi. Blake, an audit senior in financial services at Deloitte, wanted to foster financial education and encourage students to pursue careers in finance.
The mission of the club is to provide students with an educational experience in the areas of equity analysis, portfolio management, and market research; however, the long-term vision of the club is to manage a designated fund that will give students hands-on
experience with portfolio management and provide financial benefits to Muskingum University and its students.
“We created the club to be a fun club for students to learn with fake money,” said Arjun. “With the support of President Sue Hasseler and Trustee Pat Fridley ’76 and the Investment Subcommittee, it has transformed into something greater.”
As part of the Finance and Operations Committee, the Investment Subcommittee welcomes club members to its meetings. This gives students a unique chance to observe deliberations firsthand and present their own findings to the subcommittee.
As the Investment Subcommittee assessed proxy voting, committee members wanted to be sure it reflected the Muskingum community, so they held a workshop for Board of Trustee members, University administrators, professors, and students. Students were asked to run that workshop.
“That was the beginning of the club,” Pat said. “Now, we challenge students to go beyond just presenting their analysis, but to think in terms of recommendations. If you make a recommendation, you have to defend it. As you start to look at the pluses and minuses, you might even change your recommendation.”
After hosting the workshop, the subcommittee tasked the club to research the top three priorities identified.
Club members then researched fund managers in order to make a recommendation to the subcommittee on what management firm the University should use.
“The students dug in deep enough to understand the proxy issues and to compare and contrast. Then they had to make a recommendation and say what they liked about it and didn’t like about it, and their recommendation was accepted,” Pat said. “I have never seen any published material on proxy voting as good as what they did. These students are capable and have exceeded our expectations.”
Club members also have the opportunity to work on paid internships. These are researchbased projects focused on topics like TIPS – Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities – and the dollar super cycle. The internships will culminate in a recommendation to the Investment Subcommittee on the topics researched.
Zach Martin ’25 and Colton Whyte ’25, members of the Investment Club since their freshmen year and the members who led the proxy research project, understand the value and impact of the club and the value of working with the Investment Subcommittee.
“Doing work in a club for something you are interested in makes a difference; you learn things you otherwise wouldn’t,” Zach said. “The sector and individual research along with the internship opportunities have been significant. It is good for the club to look at what is happening now and talking about it.”
As president of the club, Colton had numerous experiences including presenting, public speaking, teamwork, and leadership. “It is overwhelming at first, but it is interesting to see all the metrics and all the research that goes into making the decisions.
Zach shared one of his biggest surprises. “One thing Pat said is ‘there is no right answer, but there are better answers.’ They are all professionals, so they weigh the different options. It makes me feel more confident about my abilities.”
The club continues to grow and now has its own designated space where students can collaborate on projects throughout the week, not just during meetings. For Arjun, the club is a pipeline where students will gain invaluable experience and get big internships that lead to fulfilling careers.
“The end goal – one of our Investment Club students is sitting on the Board of Trustees and part of the Investment Subcommittee.”
Much Ado About Giving: The Gardners’ High-Impact Encore
Trustee John ’68 and Therese Gardners’ love of theatre started in 2001 at the Stratford Festival in Lake Huron, Canada, where they watched a performance of the “The Merchant of Venice.” While Therese acted in high school theatre, John realized he did not know much about Shakespeare.
“I thought if I am going to be an educated person, I need to know about Shakespeare,” said John. He recalled that he hadn’t taken any classes at Muskingum about Shakespeare.
The following year, they went back to Stratford and saw five or six plays including some that were not Shakespeare. “In addition to classics and well-known works, Stratford puts on plays we never heard of, so after five years we decided we wanted to see everything they do each season,” John said. “The productions at the Stratford Festival are just as good as Broadway, and the actors just as talented.”
“We got more involved when we became donors,” Therese said. “We joined the Playwrights’ Circle, and we started making friends and building relationships with other members, Festival staff, and locals in the Stratford community. We travel to other cities for plays, attend special events, and get immersed with people who are as passionate about theatre as we are. John also chairs the Stratford Festival of America Board.”
While home in Indiana, John and Therese attend theatre productions at Bethel University, where John serves on its Board of Trustees. They wanted to share their Stratford experience with Bethel students interested in theatre, so they started taking a group of students to the Stratford Festival each year for a week of theatre immersion, including both on-stage performances and behind-the-scenes operations.
When the Gardners heard members of the Forensics Program present at a Muskingum and Heritage Societies Reception during Homecoming, they were impressed with their talent and asked the students if they had heard of the Stratford Festival. The students had not. The Gardners then connected with the Impact Center and the Theatre faculty to see if there was interest in taking a group of Muskingum students to the Stratford Festival.
The Impact Center worked with John and Therese to create this high-impact learning experience where any Muskingum student, especially students involved in theatre productions, either on- or off-stage, can apply to attend. The Gardners review the applications and, along with Theatre Department faculty and Impact Center staff, interview students. For students selected, their travel, hotel accommodations, and tickets to all events are covered.
For the 2025 trip, students were able to apply for a High Impact Experiences Grant to cover the cost of their passport and meals. The grant program, made possible through donations of Muskingum alumni and friends, aims to reduce financial barriers that may hinder students from participating in a high impact experience.
In August 2024, the Gardners took six students, Professor of Theatre Diane Rao, Associate Professor of Theatre Cassie King, and Senior Director of the Impact Center Amy Nestor to the Stratford Festival for seven days.
“As a high-impact experience, it was outstanding,” Amy
said. “It was an intense trip. We were up early in the morning, watching two shows a day, doing behind-thescenes tours, and meeting with actors and production staff. The Gardners participated in everything, so the students got to learn from them and their experiences.
“Stratford is a small, lovely town, but with worldclass performances, so students aren’t overwhelmed by being in a large city. The theatres are new and designed to be welcoming and comforting.”
The Stratford Festival staff worked with the Gardners to plan these university visits, creating opportunities for the students to learn all facets of the theatre industry. The students met with costume designers, toured the prop and costume warehouse, and enjoyed meals with the Gardners where they reflected on what they learned.
The
Gardners are like our fairy godmothers arriving, and we got this amazing trip,” Cassie said. “I met them for the first time when we conducted student interviews. They said if you have seen Broadway, this is just as good if not better. I scoffed, but they were right. It is true.
“Their excitement and enthusiasm are contagious. It got us and the students excited,” said Cassie. “They know so much about the actors, directors and the company. They have all these connections with the people they have seen season after season.”
The students got to see set changeovers where the set from the afternoon performance was dismantled and moved to storage backstage and the set for the evening performance on the same stage was brought from storage backstage and assembled on stage, all in two hours, usually less. “It was interesting for our students to see – how the people on stage and doing the lights were just flowing, another day’s work, without stress or anxiety. The stage crew has rehearsed and practiced it as much as the actors who do the
shows. It was nice to see people do their jobs without the craziness of it,” Cassie said.
Phillip Lashley ’27, a political science and criminal justice major and pre-law minor from Lore City, Ohio, did high school theatre, but had stepped away from it. After taking an improv class at Muskingum and learning about the opportunity, he decided to apply for the trip. He hoped it would reignite his passion for theatre.
“I remember walking into the interview that day wearing dress clothes. I was shaking a little bit. I was a little intimidated by them; you could tell they are very important people. By the end I was very comfortable and felt great talking to them,” Phillip recalled. “This was my first international experience, and it was great. [Stratford] was so clean, and the people were super nice. Being in the downtown area of Stratford, I felt like I could walk down the street, and be fine. It was a welcoming and nice environment.
“I did a little research before we went, and I thought it would be an academic-type trip, but there were lots of surprises. After one of the shows, we got to walk behind the theater to the stage door and talk to the people who were in the play. One of the main characters is a regular at Stratford, where he usually plays more comedic roles, but in this play he had a more serious role. It was great to have him explain the dual nature of his roles.”
After going to Stratford, Phillip plans to try and fit theatre into his busy schedule. He is Student Senate president, a John and Annie Glenn Public Service Fellow, and member of the Forensics Program. This past academic year he also was president of Lambda Sigma honorary, president of Model UN and Global Studies Club, and vice president of the Game Club.
“For career goals, ideally after being an attorney for a few years, I would like to run for public office. You can’t do everything on your own; you have to find people that can do things, and you have to let them do their jobs,” Phillip said. “In theater, there are prop designers, costume designers, lighting technicians; one person can’t do everything. You have to find what’s right for each person and then you can have something as awesome as Stratford.
“I had a teacher in high school who had a white board outside of his classroom. Before we walked into class we had to answer a question. One question was ‘What’s the meaning of life?’ He said, ‘I think the meaning of life is to leave this world in a better state then we entered it.’ That is
when I knew what I wanted to do,” said Phillip.
According to Cassie, the trip to Stratford was massively impactful for all the students, whether they are going into theatre or not. “It was a whole week where they got to experience a ton of new things – being a little more independent than they are in college.
So much of what was impactful about this connection with alumni was not that they donated the money, but getting to know John and Therese and that our students got to know them. That face-toface time – just showing up and being present – our students so badly want those connections with alumni and want to hear their stories and learn from them.
Having that clear connection to the donor was the most impactful.
Phillip went back to Stratford in August and is thankful for this experience. “I would say, giving to a single student doesn’t just change the life of that student; it changes the lives of every person that student interacts with. By helping one person, you are helping countless people. You can help so many others.”
Taking ON London: Muskie Style
Spring break took a meaningful turn for a group of Muskingum students who crossed the Atlantic for a week in London, blending education, culture, and career exploration. Guided by faculty and supported by the University’s commitment to high-impact learning, students majoring in subjects such as English, business management, and media connected with alumni, navigated historic streets, and returned home with new inspiration for their futures.
Kekoa Kaluhiokalani, associate professor of English, has led international trips for students since 2009. He plans every detail to create the perfect travel abroad experience, having taken students not only to London but also to Turkey, Greece, Italy, Ireland, Scotland, Hawaii, and more.
This trip was a first for the Economics, Accounting, and Business (EAB) department. To ensure a smooth experience, Kekoa gave Laura Geiger, associate professor of business, a guided tour of London and Edinburgh before the students arrived.
"It can be a very disorienting experience for students traveling anyway, and if they sense that the leadership is also disoriented, it creates nervousness or instability," Kekoa said. "I wanted to be sure that all the students felt confident in their leaders—and Laura did an amazing job."
Students explored iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. For Laura, the most impactful learning came from cultural immersion.
"Visiting one of the world’s largest cities was both thrilling and, at times, a bit overwhelming. Experiencing iconic places they had only heard about—such as the Tower of London, British Museum, Buckingham Palace, Leadenhall Market, Maritime Museum, Westminster Abbey, a ferry ride along the River Thames, Edinburgh Castle, the Museum on the Mound, and an operating distillery—brought their journey to life in unforgettable ways,” she said.
For Kekoa, the highlights came in quieter moments of personal discovery.
“When we took them to a museum and you turn the corner, you see their discovery—world masterpieces they didn’t even realize were there," he said. "Whether it’s Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, the Rosetta Stone, or the Parthenon sculptures at the British Museum, there’s that ‘aha’ moment."
Then-freshman Billy House ’28 experienced several such moments, thanks in part to months of planning. Billy uses a wheelchair and had long believed a trip to London might be out of the question.
"I dreamed of London pretty much my entire life," Billy said. "Before I attended Muskingum, I had looked into it, and a friend told me London wasn’t accessible, so I kind of put that on the back burner. At the Involvement Fair, I met Kekoa, and he tried to convince me to go. I started to politely decline, and he said,
I would one-hundred percent do any trip, especially if Kekoa is planning it. He went above and beyond. I’ve never had a teacher in my years of being a student, whether that be college, high school, or even younger grades, try this hard to include me as a disabled person, or even just made me feel included.
‘Whoever told you it’s not accessible is a liar.’ That started it. We worked from September all the way through the flight date."
During the trip, Billy faced unexpected challenges— including an issue with the wheelchair charger due to voltage differences in the UK. With support from Billy’s companion Joshua Winston, they found a solution at the London Mobility store.
"I had sent him (Joshua) with my card—I was just going to take the loss and spend $300 on a charger I’d never use again," Billy said. "But I didn’t get a charge notification, and then Joshua came back with the charger. He said this lovely woman originally offered it at a discount but then decided to give it to us for free. I sobbed for a good 10 minutes."
write about why I felt I should receive the scholarship. I ended up getting it, and that’s how Joshua’s cost was covered.”
Thanks to the support received and the team surrounding Billy, the experience became one that could be fully embraced. What stood out most wasn’t just the destination, but the effort it took to get there—and the people who made it possible.
The trip also featured strong alumni engagement, coordinated through Jen Schultice Bronner ’97, senior director of philanthropy at Muskingum. Brian Rippel ’08, a frequent traveler, joined the trip and hosted a visit for EAB students at his employer, Northern Trust, a Chicago-based global bank with offices in London.
Joshua was able to join the trip thanks to a donorfunded grant through Muskingum's PLUS Program. He is contracted through a company called Minas. He serves as Billy’s designated travel buddy as they plan their next study abroad experience with Muskingum.
“I used the PLUS grant, which is available to students in the PLUS Program,” Billy explained. “I had to fill out an application and
"We planned a presentation with a sales trader, an HR representative, who’s actually from Ohio but now is living in London, and myself," Brian said. "The students asked phenomenal questions. I was impressed and the feedback from that day was very, very positive, and even some of the people that work for the company said the students were really great.”
Beth Vaughn, associate professor of accounting, described the visit to Northern Trust as a standout example of high-impact learning in action.
“Students learned about the activities and transactions popular at the bank, the international presence and operations, and got to visit the stock trading floor,” she said. “They were taken into groups to tour the floor, meet with a trader, and see how trades are accomplished in real time. It was a very cool moment.”
Faculty, including Kekoa, Beth, Laura, and others on the trip intentionally aligned course content with real-world experiences. Laura’s course, Business International Topics, covered international marketing, business practices and policy, sustainability, and even the operational history of whiskey production when the EAB group ventured into Scotland. Laura added that students experienced an “inadvertent cultural exposure” while riding on a train from Scotland
to London with a train full of football fans, heading to a big game in London. For junior Molly Cepek ’26, whose summer internship was with the Columbus Crew in sports marketing, the experience was unforgettable.
“When we were headed back to London, Newcastle and Liverpool were going to play the next day at Wembley Stadium. We took a three-hour train ride with a ton of Newcastle fans that were chanting, singing, living it up on the train. For me, working with the Columbus Crew, seeing the fan culture of football was so fascinating. It felt like I was sitting at work for three hours, listening to the fans go crazy. For a lot of people, that wasn’t a fun experience, but it was something that I was glad to be doing.”
Students connected with alumni in more ways than just professionally; they also formed personal relationships. For senior Nathan Wehr ’25, traveling with alumni helped clarify his career goals while also fostering personal connections.
“The alumni were amazing people. It was nice being able to have conversations with people who have been where I am now—seeing where the alumni’s paths connected with mine a little bit, especially since many of them were more well-traveled,” he said.
Nathan felt a sense of security traveling with alumni, not only because he had a group to travel with, but because he shared common connections with them— Muskingum and the shared aspiration to travel.
“It kind of makes the world feel smaller in a very comforting way. For me personally, I entertain the idea of moving far away, traveling abroad, but I also recognize that doing so might come with some sort of isolation. If you travel far away, it’s very hard to keep up with people. But doing this and knowing that there are alumni who love to travel and are part of the same community I come from—I think it’s empowering. It sends the message that you can strive for more without having to sacrifice so much at the same time.”
Brian echoed the importance of student-alumni interaction. "I think the best way for alumni to give back—if not monetarily—is through professional
opportunities like this," he said. "There’s no price tag for what we experienced. These students got real-life experience, right off the bat, in a foreign country."
Kekoa is working with the Impact Center on a task force to develop more costsensitive travel opportunities, including domestic trips.
"I believe in the value of firsthand travel experiences, and we know cost is a barrier," Kekoa said. "Part of what I’m doing with Molly in the task force is creating a range of activities, so cost doesn’t become a limitation. I envision domestic opportunities, too. That’s a way for students to interface with a broader variety of experiences."
The Impact Center’s High Impact Experiences Grant program supports that goal by reducing financial barriers to applied learning. One recipient of that grant on this trip was Ava Flynn.
“The scholarship meant everything to me,” said Ava. “Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to afford the trip. It made the opportunity possible and I’m incredibly thankful for that. Because of the scholarship, I didn’t have to stress about money while I was there. That freedom let me be present during site visits, participate fully in conversations, and enjoy the cultural aspects of the trip, too. Not everyone can afford international experiences, but that shouldn’t stop students from gaining exposure to global industries and growing both professionally and personally. Scholarships like this make sure no one’s left out because of finances."
Jen hopes this trip marks just the beginning of deeper student-alumni engagement, domestically and abroad.
"We recognize our alumni as vital bridges for our students’ professional and personal development," she said. "We’re committed to cultivating an environment where these meaningful connections can flourish."
To get involved in future trips or support students’ high-impact experience, please contact Jen at jbronner@muskingum.edu or 740-826-8463.
COACH OF THE YEAR, COACH OF THE YEAR,
Wahle, Leads Muskies to Historic Season and Bright Future
The Muskingum men’s basketball team, led by OAC Coach of the Year Nathan Wahle, firmly established itself as one of the top programs in the Ohio Athletic Conference with a historic season, earning prestigious postseason honors and setting the stage for a bright future.
In just his third season, Nathan orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, guiding the Muskies to a fourth-place finish in the OAC with 11 conference wins—far exceeding expectations after being picked last in the OAC Preseason Poll. Muskingum also recorded its highest win total (14) since 2016-17 and hosted and won its first OAC Tournament game since 2005-06, marking a significant milestone for the program.
Reflecting on the season, Nathan emphasized the dedication and resilience of his players.
More than anything, I was happy for our players. They put in the work and trusted the process, and it was rewarding to see that effort pay off,” he said. “The energy on campus surrounding our success was incredible, and the support from the community throughout the season was something I’ll never forget. The year was full of many special moments for everyone involved.
The Muskies dominated conference play, sweeping four OAC opponents (Marietta, Wilmington, Heidelberg, and Capital) while establishing themselves as one of the league’s top defensive teams. Muskingum led the OAC in three-point field goal percentage defense (.296), ranked second in turnovers forced per game (14.6), third in steals (6.5) and offensive rebounds (10.2) per game, fourth in overall field goal percentage defense (.446), and finished fifth in both scoring (74.6 ppg) and points allowed (73.5 ppg).
For his leadership in guiding the program to new heights, Nathan was honored as OAC Coach of the Year—becoming the first Muskingum coach to receive the award since Jim Burson in 2005.
Reflecting on the recognition, Nathan credited the collective effort behind the team’s success. “It’s always nice to be recognized, especially by your peers, but this award is truly a team achievement,” he said. “Our coaching staff and players believed in each other and exceeded expectations together. There’s no better feeling in sports than when a group fully buys in and creates something greater than the sum of its parts—that’s what made this year’s team so special.”
Junior guard Duane Davis and sophomore guard Owen Emig earned recognition for their outstanding performances this season, with Davis being named First Team All-OAC and Emig receiving Honorable Mention All-OAC honors and being named to the OAC All-Tournament team.
Duane had a dominant season, co-leading the OAC in scoring with a career-high 18.1 points per game. Not only did he become the 33rd player in Muskingum history to score 1,000 career points, but he also posted a career-high 30 points twice, against La Roche and Allegheny. His shooting efficiency was remarkable, as he connected on 49 percent of his field goals, ranking among the top 15 in the conference. Over the course of the season, Duane contributed 490 points, 152 rebounds, 59 assists, and 36 steals, solidifying his place as one of the OAC's premier players. Last season, he was recognized with Honorable Mention All-OAC honors.
Being recognized this season was an honor, but basketball is a team sport,” stated Duane. “My accomplishments wouldn’t be possible without my teammates, coaches, and support system. This motivates me to keep pushing and improving for next season.
Owen also had an impressive season, emerging as one of the OAC's most reliable shooters. He finished 12th in the conference in scoring with 13.4 points per game, while leading the OAC with 2.3 three-pointers made per game and shooting 36 percent from beyond the arc. Owen was also one of the best free-throw shooters in the conference, making 83 percent of his attempts, which ranked second in the OAC. His all-around game resulted in 363 points, 64 rebounds, 39 assists, and 18 steals, further highlighting his contributions to the team's success.
I’m incredibly blessed and thankful for the awards I received this season,” said Owen. Earning All-OAC Honorable Mention is an honor. Additionally, being named to the All-OAC Tournament team is a testament to our amazing fans. Their energy fueled our team, and I’m grateful for their role in our success and this recognition.
Nathan’s journey to Muskingum was shaped by years of coaching experience across multiple levels. Before arriving in New Concord, he served as an assistant coach at DePauw University, where he played a key role in the Tigers’ run to the NCAC Tournament SemiFinals. That season, DePauw led all of NCAA Division III in free-throw percentage and ranked among the conference’s top defensive teams. His influence extended beyond game strategy, contributing to recruiting, opponent scouting, and player development—helping build a foundation for future success.
Prior to DePauw, Nathan spent five seasons at Wittenberg University, where he quickly rose from assistant coach to associate head coach. During his tenure, he helped lead the Tigers to two NCAC regular-season championships, two NCAC Tournament titles, and three NCAA Tournament appearances, including a deep run to the Sweet 16 in 2020 before the tournament was halted due to COVID-19. Wittenberg thrived under Nathan’s defensive philosophy, finishing first in the NCAC in scoring defense four times and producing four NCAC Defensive Player of the Year honorees. At their peak, the Tigers were ranked No. 1 in the Great Lakes Region and cracked the Top 10 in the D3hoops.com national poll.
Before Wittenberg, Nathan served as the recruiting coordinator, defensive coach, and guard development coach at Doane University in Nebraska. His coaching career began at Maumee High School in Ohio while he was attending Bowling Green State University, where he also worked as a team manager for the Falcons' men’s basketball program. These early experiences provided valuable insight into the operations of a collegiate program and helped shape his approach to coaching.
Minute WITH A MUSKINGUM SOCIETY MEMBER
When Bill Gegas ’79 was working toward his degree, Muskingum supported him in meaningful ways, including the financial assistance that helped make graduation possible. A first-generation college student from Steubenville, Ohio, he spent his summers working in the steel mills to help pay his way through college.
He still remembers the professors who challenged him to think deeper and work harder, shaping not just his education but his future. Grateful for the role Muskingum played in his journey, Bill now gives back to help ensure today’s students have the same opportunity to succeed like he did.
When the spring semester of his junior year approached, Bill realized he wasn’t going to have enough money to cover the cost.
“I remember driving to Muskingum and going to the bursar’s office,” he recalled. “I don't remember who the woman was, but I can still see her in my mind. I walked in, had my bill in hand, and said, ‘I have no money.’ She leaned back in her chair, and there was this long pause—10, maybe 20 seconds. Then she leaned forward and said, ‘Well, let's see what we can do about this.’ She found some loans, moved some things around, and somehow, I was able to continue at that point.”
That moment could have gone many ways, but the outcome left a lasting impression.
“I think the underlying philosophy at Muskingum was that they truly wanted to help students,” he said. “To me, that was the inspiration when I got to the point of saying, ‘Hey, is there somewhere I can help pay it back?”'
Bill’s connection to Muskingum was more than academic, it was deeply personal. His freshman year roommate remains his best friend to this day. And during college, while attending different schools, he and his now-wife dated throughout all four years. They’ve been married for 45 years and have four children together.
After graduating from Muskingum, Bill earned his medical degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and became a family physician.
He currently serves as medical director for Worthington Enterprise, operates a free-standing medical facility for employees and their dependents, along with 50 manufacturing plants across the country.
Today, Bill lives in Worthington, Ohio, and remains deeply committed to giving back to Muskingum. His reason for continuing to give, and for being a Muskingum Society Member, is rooted in gratitude and a desire to create real opportunity for other students.
“I'm just hopeful that it provides, mainly, the economic support, or part of it, so students can pursue what’s important to them,” he said. “Just to know that, yes, as a community, there are people within the Muskingum alumni who truly care about passing that on.”
Bill encourages fellow alumni to reflect on their own journeys and consider how they might give back.
“Alumni need to look into their own hearts and ask, ‘What did your Muskingum experience mean to you? Did it provide the underpinnings for success in your life?’” he said. “I don't necessarily mean financial success, but did it provide a framework for happiness, strong relationships, or a meaningful career? And is there some way you can help carry that forward for others?”
As Bill reflects on his journey from firstgeneration college student to physician and mentor, his motivation remains simple.
“The reality is my background was such that I didn't have much, and I was fortunate that circumstances allowed me to pursue what was important to me. And really, my hope is just that in some small way, I could do something similar for others.”
Giving Back through Charitable Bequests
A bequest is one of the easiest gifts you can make to significantly impact a student's life. A charitable bequest puts students on the path to life-long learning, success, and service. Here are some of the many benefits:
• Your gift costs you nothing today
• Your gift is free of federal and estate tax
• You can change your mind later
• You can still benefit your heirs with specific gifts
• You can leave a legacy
Kevin ’95 and Jill Archer ’95
Witucky made the commitment to impact future Muskies.
“Muskingum is family to us and has had a lasting impact on our lives. Without hesitation, as we begin to navigate through the upcoming years, we realize our love of being Muskies and continuing our tradition of giving back is very important to us. Providing a legacy through our estate plans is exactly how we want to continue our support of Muskingum and the Long Magenta Line.”
Your estate planning attorney can include a provision in your will that leaves a lasting gift to Muskingum. Your bequest could be a gift of specific assets, a dollar amount, or a percentage of your estate. A bequest could also be made from the residue of your estate or what is left after all gifts have been made to your heirs.
Scan the QR code to learn more about how you can change the lives of students.
