Challenge Magazine ALUMNI & FRIENDS MAGAZINE OF TIFFIN UNIVERSITY SUMMER 2020
Challenge Magazine TIFFIN UNIVERSITY IS A PLACE WHERE WE CHALLENGE OUR STUDENTS TO BECOME ALL THEY ARE CAPABLE OF BECOMING. HENCE, THE NAME OF THE MAGAZINE. TABLE OF CONTENTS 4
Letter from the President Tiffin University keeps getting better
5
Guiding Principles
6
Staying in Tiffin was their best option!
7
Ph.D. Students Visit Campus for Inaugural Residency
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TU Students Warm Up to Cold Case
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Campus Shoutouts – We are Dragon Proud
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TU Announces a New Center for Science and Technology
13 2020 Commencement 14 Student Spotlight TU creates an environment for student success 16 Donor Honor Roll May 1, 2019 — April 30, 2020 20 TU License Plate Program 21 Dragons for Life – Alumni News 22 Alumni Spotlight – Dragon Proud 24 We’ve Got Class – Staying Connected 28 In Memoriam 29 Bringing the Fire – Dragon Athletics Graham Ryan - You will be missed 31 Endowed Scholarships Leave a Legacy
PUBLISHED BY The Office of Institutional Advancement Mitchell P. Blonde, CFRE Vice President for Institutional Advancement & Public Affairs / Chief Advancement Officer EDITOR + PHOTOGRAPHER Lisa W. Williams, Executive Director of University Relations DESIGN Judy Reynolds, Creative Director and Graphic Designer
WRITER Kaitlyn Boehler, Public Relations Coordinator CONTRIBUTORS Shane O’Donnell, Sports Information Director Debby Roszman, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications Vickie Wilkins, Director of Alumni Relations Send news to: tiffin.edu/tellus Change of address: Office of Alumni Relations 419.448.3595 or wilkinsvm@tiffin.edu
Challenge Magazine welcomes comments and suggestions. Please email roszmandl@tiffin.edu
President’s Message Dear Alumni & Friends of TU: WELCOME TO Tiffin University’s summer issue of Challenge Magazine. In the past six months, Tiffin University, like most colleges and universities across the state and country, transferred all of its seated classes online--almost overnight. The magnitude of the COVID-19 pandemic was unimaginable for most, yet through teamwork and perseverance to move forward, reach higher and always putting the success of our students first, Commencement 2020, for the first time in TU history, was delivered virtually. You can find the ceremony at tiffin.edu/commencement. Fall semester is right around the corner and with the mindset of “business as usual,” seated classes will begin on August 17 and end by Thanksgiving break. Although this pandemic has tested us, we have worked very hard to return our students to the campus they have missed and to the experiences they are expecting and deserve. Because TU’s classes are small, social distancing is easier to control and most importantly, we can keep an eye on our students’ social and development needs. It is critical to us that families and loved ones rest a little easier, knowing that their students can reach out for help to their professors or staff members and vice versa. Tiffin University truly is just the right size to see and respond to issues a larger institution just cannot. In the pages ahead, you will hear from some of our students as well as our alumni. We continue to be proud of our 130+ year history and we are excited about our future as TU continues to be a vibrant place for everyone—new students, returning students and alumni, community members and those who simply pass through. Please continue to send us your news and stories of marriage, birth, new employment, recent journeys or humble beginnings.
Dr. Lillian B. Schumacher President of Tiffin University
4 / PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Guiding Principles PURPOSE
VALUES
What we are about: Transforming lives through education.
How we behave – ICARE
MISSION What we do: Educate students by linking knowledge to professional practice.
VISION What we want to be: A premier university for challenging students to enhance their global competencies and 21st century skills, for success in a diverse world.
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Where we will focus: • Create an environment focused on student success. (Students) • Grow innovative academic programs. (Academics) • Optimize our organizational capacity. (People) • Strengthen and increase institutional financial sustainability. (Finances) • Enhance our critical infrastructure. (Facilities and Technology)
Interdependence We are an inclusive and caring community that emphasizes service as a foundation of success. Communication We engage in authentic dialogue, timely exchanges of information, and fact-driven discussion, civil debate, and decision-making. Accountability We make ethical, responsible decisions that have a high degree of integrity, are data-informed, and are results-oriented. Respect As a portal of equal access to education and information, we model civility and compassion; we embrace diversity as an essential component of creating a rich university experience for everyone. Entrepreneurship We prize innovation and creative thinking as hallmarks of successful participation in the global marketplace.
Staying in Tiffin WAS THEIR BEST OPTION! DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC 2020, Tiffin University advised its residential students that returning home was the best decision to protect their health and the well-being of those around them, yet recognized, regardless of reason, that not all students could return home. Because of this, TU made arrangements to not uproot this group of students and continued to support their needs (food, shelter, medical, emotional and academic). As the months ahead came to a close, the number of students who have remained on campus has fluctuated. We asked the students who chose to remain in Tiffin if they would share their reasons why and below are their replies. Pedro Ziese from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil said, “All international flights were canceled. Also, my visa would not allow me to be outside of the U.S. for more than five months, which would preclude me from going back now anyway. I am also staying over the summer due to the pandemic.” Pedro expects to graduate in 2022 with a degree in business administration and sports management. Andrew Rice from Columbus, Ohio, said, “I live near the city when I’m not on campus, and Tiffin is more isolated. Cities are where you don’t want to be during a pandemic and my parents agreed with my decision.” Andrew expects to graduate in 2021 with a degree in government and national security. Munkhnast Delgersaikhan from Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, said “I’m still living on campus due to COVID-19. I tried to go back to my home country but the border closed right about the same time TU’s seated classes were canceled. I thought of going to D.C. to visit my relatives, but the situation was getting worse in that area, and I thought I will be safer in Tiffin. My parents are really concerned about the situation in the U.S and they keep in touch with me daily.” Munkhnast is a freshman and is majoring in finance. Elijah Gauldin from Gary, Indiana, said, “I remained on campus because I believe it is safer in Tiffin and I am just grateful Tiffin’s community is so small and so accepting of me. My family worries a lot, they constantly call me and I make sure they know I am safe and around caring people.” Elijah expects to graduate in 2021 and his major is strategic communications.
Nicholas Brand from Verdigris, Oklahoma, said, “I am still on campus for a few reasons, the most vital is that I do not have internet access in my rural area at home. And, to be honest, I feel more at home at TU than I do in Oklahoma. I prefer it here. Like most families, my family preferred that I went home, but I turned down their numerous offers. When they finally realized that I preferred to stay in Tiffin, they began to support me as long as I remained in close contact with them. We talk almost every other day so they can feel more comfortable during these chaotic times.” Nicholas’ will graduate in 2023 and his major is software development. Leah Davis from Gurnee, Illinois, said, “Being on campus gives me more focus to do my school work. If I was home, I would want to lay in bed all day (not that I don’t want to do that here), but being on campus and in my campus apartment reminds me that there is still work to do. My parents and I came to a mutual agreement that staying here would be better for me academically. My mom and I both agreed that if I came home, I would not be as motivated to keep up with my online classes as there would be too many distractions. My family trusts that I will make the right decisions to keep myself healthy, as well as stay on track with my studies. Leah will graduate in 2021 and her major is forensic science. Georgina Pan, Nantaixiang, China, says, “I believe I am meant to stay on campus because the TU campus is safe. Some of my family members would like me to return home but my mother said if I am determined to stay, then just stay and do not leave my Tiffin home. Georgina expects to graduate with a master of science degree in 2022. Wayne Kreis, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, said, “I am the Graduate Assistant for the Student Engagement Office and part of my responsibility is to help plan programs and events. I still feel that it is an important duty, as it helps our students know we are on campus if they need us and gives some sense of a continued connection. My parents are fine with me staying on campus, now. They feel it is likely one of the safest places for me to take shelter. We are a family here at TU and my parents are very aware that I have the right people to look after me if I needed it - friends, fraternity brothers and co-workers. Wayne is a graduate student (class of 2020) and majored in national security and intelligence with a minor in government. 6 / CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
Update 1 month later “I am doing well,” Wayne said. “Staying on campus was the best decision for me. To keep ourselves busy, we have been conducting virtual student programming. Zoom Bingo has been a huge success and is a lot of fun as well as Zoom Trivia/Kahoot! Night. We have also conducted virtual paint nights and given coloring and brain teaser packets to students, which help with boredom. I have also done Zoom Night Outs with my friends and former frat brothers, which have been great since social distancing is important.” Leo Hasenstab, Frankfurt, Germany, said, “I stayed on campus because I was scheduled to play for the USL2 team in Michigan this summer. I committed to play for the Flint City Bucks. However, the season was canceled because of this virus. In addition, I am applying for an OPT which means working one year for a company after graduation. But the pandemic is making it harder to find jobs. I am hoping an opportunity does open up soon through some of the connections I have made.” Leo graduated this year and his chosen major was international business (MBA). Stephanie Mondragon, El Monte, California reasons for staying on campus were similar to her peers and initially, her family felt it was best for Stephanie to stay in Tiffin because of its small population, and they were worried that traveling to California might put her at risk to catch the virus. Two weeks after her decision to stay in Tiffin, Stephanie’s family became ill with fevers. “I tried to stay positive and hoped that they had not been in contact with the virus,” Stephanie said, “but, within a few days, my father got worse and tested positive for COVID-19. His back hurt, he felt sore and he had trouble breathing. There came a point where my father could not handle being sick anymore and went to the hospital, and his survival depended on a ventilator.” “The doctors advised my mom and three siblings to get tested and their tests came back positive - my whole family had contracted COVID-19,” she said. The doctors recommended that her family remained home in quarantine. “My mother was afraid of going to the hospital and she pushed through her illness. I would often call her to make sure she was doing everything possible to get better, even if it was to drink lemon ginger tea.” Luckily, Stephanie’s siblings only experienced flu symptoms such as a runny nose, cough and low fever. They were able to help their mother disinfect the apartment, cook and give her medicine. Update Stephanie’s father was released from the hospital and her family is now healthy. Stephanie was grateful she chose to remain in Tiffin and she still believes it is not safe to travel. Stephanie will graduate in 2022 with a degree in psychology, a concentration in human services and a minor in sociology.
Ph.D. students visit campus for INAUGURAL RESIDENCY TIFFIN UNIVERSITY’S FIRST STUDENT GATHERING of the Ph.D. program, Global Leadership and Change, visited campus in early March for an inaugural residency. Over 60 students, faculty and staff participated and had the opportunity to interact, engage and apply themselves in a doctoral community. Dr. Kenneth Rauch, Director of Ph.D. in Global Leadership and Change, indicated that students are expected to attend three weekend residencies while completing their Ph.D. studies. Each residency is a three-day gathering of active Ph.D. students on TU’s campus. The first residency incorporated faculty introductions, research interest developDr. Kenneth Rauch ment, research strategies, networking, a panel discussion, and several keynote speakers. Dr. David Livermore, President of the Cultural Intelligence Center, presented on the importance of cultural intelligence within global leadership. Dr. Livermore is one of the foremost experts on cultural intelligence, is a frequent adviser and speaker to government agencies, Fortune 500’s, and charitable organizations around the world. He explained that Dr. David Livermore cultural intelligence is a way of assessing and improving effectiveness for culturally diverse situations. During his keynote address, Dr. Livermore discussed the four capabilities (drive, knowledge, strategy, and action) that develop our overall cultural intelligence. Dr. Livermore also hosted a book signing of his most recent book for Ph.D. students at the Friday evening reception. The residency also featured a keynote presentation by Dr. Reginald Wilkinson, President of Connecting the Dots LLC. and a member of Tiffin University’s Board of Trustees. Wilkinson examined implicit bias, which is the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions and decisions unconsciously. Dr. Wilkinson explained that we could guard against biases by building awareness, increasing positive intergroup contacts and incorporating counter-stereotypical exemplars into our surroundings. Rauch commented that the program is off to a strong start and the early reviews from the students provide encouragement for faculty and staff. One student said, “Tiffin University has created an excellent Ph.D. program, and I am excited to be in its inaugural class. The material and course work have been challenging and thought-provoking, but not completely overwhelming.” Tiffin University’s doctoral program was developed with adult professionals in mind. TU allows students to continue working in a managerial or academic career while pursuing Ph.D. studies. According to TU President Dr. Lillian Schumacher, “The program is the culmination of our focus on Celebrating Cultural Uniqueness at TU.” Under her leadership, TU has embarked on this initiative to strengthen its approach to diversity. “CCU builds global and cultural appreciation into our institutional DNA.” “Global leaders are critical,” Schumacher continued, “espe(continued on page 8)
Ph.D. INAUGURAL RESIDENCY / 7
cially in today’s complex and volatile political environment. Students who enroll in our Ph.D. program can expect to earn an education focused on leadership theory and practice that is inclusive of understanding, working with, and respecting others who are different from us. Providing this level of knowledge and ability sets TU apart from many other institutions of higher learning.” Tiffin University’s Provost, Dr. Peter Holbrook, added, “It is imperative to gain as much exposure to other cultures and different perspectives as possible. Learning about how people in different cultures think, communicate and achieve results will advance any career. It is TU’s intention to provide this type of a learning environment for all of its students; especially those who enroll in this exciting new program.” For more information about TU’s Global Leadership and Change Ph.D. program, contact Dr. Kenneth Rauch at rauchk@ tiffin.edu.
AN INVESTMENT IN MYSELF
David Farler
Hometown: Columbus Grove, Ohio
Ph.D. Global Leadership and
Change
Class: 2021
DAVE FARLER IS no stranger to Tiffin University. He graduated with an MBA in 2013. Originally from Lima, Ohio, Farler considered TU to be a “local” university so when he began his search for doctoral-level programs and found out TU offered one, he knew right away TU was meant to be. “I chose TU’s Ph.D. in Global Leadership and Change because I knew it would advance my knowledge in business and leadership,” Farler said. “I believe this degree will help me make a positive difference in the world. Gaining knowledge to become a better employee and individual has to be a good investment.” Farler said it was apparent from the beginning that TU is not only invested in this program, but it is invested in the students. “Everyone cares,” he said, “and everyone is available - from the director of the program to each professor, whether it is through email or a video chat, it is evident they care about me.” Farler’s father was the first individual to graduate from high school in his family. He and his siblings were the first to graduate with bachelor’s degrees and he will be the first to earn a Ph.D. “I pray that my children see how hard I have worked to achieve a doctoral-level degree and are motivated to do the same.” “I was fortunate to have parents who wanted better for their children,” Farler said. “I worked multiple jobs throughout undergraduate school and still graduated with an abundance of student loans. Without taking that risk and having faith in myself, I would not be where I am today. I am 36 years old and I am grateful for everyone that has helped me along the way - Tiffin University included.”
TU students warm up to COLD CASE ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1981, Kurt Sova, 17, dressed in a bright yellow shirt, jeans and a jacket, left his Newburgh Heights home and went to a party two miles away. When he didn’t come home that night, his parents Dorothy and Ken Sova started to worry. It wasn’t like their youngest son to be gone overnight without telling them. Kurt Sova On Saturday, Dorothy contacted the party hostess and Kurt’s friends. She and her husband searched their neighborhood just south of Cleveland. They even examined dumpsters as they feared the worst. With no luck, on Sunday morning they filed a missing person report with the local police. The search continued until Wednesday morning, October 28. That’s when three children playing in an empty lot on Harvard Avenue found Kurt’s body. It was just 500 yards from the duplex where the party had been. Ken had searched that lot previously and found nothing. It seems the body – still wearing the same clothes, minus a right shoe -- had been dumped there overnight. The coroner determined that Kurt had died 24 to 36 hours before his body was relocated to the lot. The cause of death was listed as “unknown.” At just 136 pounds, it didn’t take much for Kurt’s bloodalcohol level to reach 1.1 percent, but it wasn’t enough for him to die of alcohol poisoning. And his body lacked signs of smothering or other foul play. And so, investigators were tasked with finding out where Kurt had been for five days and how he died. The Newburgh Heights police worked the case, but never found answers. Fast forward to 2019 … almost four decades later. The same year Kurt should have been living a full life at 55 years old. That’s when Tiffin University Professor Michael R. Lewis, a former criminal investigator in Cleveland for 20 years, was asked to review the cold case to determine whether it was solvable. Lewis is Executive Director, Criminal Justice and Social Sciences Center for Experiential Learning as well as Civil Rights Investigator, and Advisor for the Alpha Phi Sigma Criminal Justice Honor Society. “I did, in fact, believe the case was solvable based on several factors,” Lewis said. “There are still a lot of witnesses, the initial investigation lacked information and there is a great deal of social media interest.” Then, during spring semester 2019, he shared some information about the case with an evidence collection class. “I was really amazed by the enthusiasm and concern. A lot of students came up with ideas about what might have happened. They had a different spin on things, and I really needed fresh eyes.” Kylie Shreve, a senior double majoring in forensic psychology and criminalistics, said, “A few of us were interested so we did an investigation online and found interesting facts just using social media.” Kylie Shreve 8 / COLD CASE
Given the unprompted student initiative and broad interest, Lewis worked with law enforcement and Tiffin University to develop a partnership with students. He invited a mix of juniors and seniors to work on a team investigating the case. Their work would run from December through the end of May 2020 as a voluntary, extracurricular activity. At the end of six months, they would review the information and determine what to do next. If the case is gathering new information, Newburgh Heights Police Department, Professor Lewis and Tiffin University students will continue to dedicate their time to search for answers. The 10 assigned to the case were chosen in a thorough vetting process. Lewis gathered resumes, conducted interviews and did background checks. Students sought the experience to prepare for a future in criminal justice careers. Some of the team are looking for jobs in law enforcement and forensics, while others are planning for graduate or law school. “We had to vet the students for their maturity level,” said Lewis. “This isn’t easy work. You must have compassion and the desire to help someone, the desire to come up with the truth. You have to become immersed, but you can’t let it consume you or bother you.” To start, the students scrutinized boxes of police evidence. In the early 1980s, before computer technology was ubiquitous, most of the records were handwritten notes on paper, sometimes just on notepads. They weren’t even in data logs. A phone call to Kevin Sova, Kurt’s older brother resulted in even more evidence. Turns out their mother Dorothy had continued looking into Kurt’s death until she passed away in 2012. Over the years she had amassed four cardboard banker’s boxes filled with handwritten notes. Kurt happened to find and keep these boxes. “Throughout her life she was in contact with the news stations and papers. She examined police reports, saved newspaper clippings and talked with a lot of people,” said Lewis. “She was very detailed and provided us with a great deal of investigative information that we did not have. She even kept the funeral home registry, so we know who signed in. These records have been a treasure trove of information that has truly helped.” The students started by reviewing existing information, organizing evidence and establishing timelines. They conducted more than 10 new interviews, developed theories, researched with social media and launched a tip line. Technology has been an important tool for the team, especially social media and the ability to text message to speed up communication.
EDITOR’S
Senior Molly Barnard, who has been managing social media, said, “The goal is to try to reach as many people as possible by sharing news articles, making frequent posts, and giving reminders of the tip line numbers and email. I continuously check for any comments or input on the Facebook page that may be useful in solving the case.” Molly Barnard “Luckily, many news stations, even nationwide, have been posting articles and updates on Kurt’s case,” she adds. “I’m always looking for new posts from these stations to share on the Facebook page to try to gain more attention. At the end of April, the team was still reviewing videotaped interviews with witnesses, relatives, friends, party attendees and people of interest. Given shelter-in-place restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic, some interviews were conducted using Zoom teleconference technology, which was often difficult because of a poor internet connection. Lewis even visited the Marion Correctional Institution to interview a prisoner who may have known something. Students reviewed a recording of the conversation for information. The biggest challenge, said Lewis, is time. “This case is four decades old and sometimes people’s recollection isn’t clear.” Still, the team has identified a few people of interest. “It may or may not be a homicide,” said Lewis. “We’re trying to determine what happened and what degree of culpability there may be.” Working a real cold case gave students valuable experience that will transfer into future careers. “This is a unique opportunity for TU to become partners with law enforcement and with an active death investigation. Our students have gained a wonderful education and now have been able to use it in real life,” said Lewis. Shreve said she’s learned a lot about patience while searching for answers. “The case opened my eyes and I realized that not everything is perfect in an investigation. There were a lot of missing clues. If we could go back, I would have done things differently, but I learned a lot from the interview processes and what they did in the past.” Now that she has graduated, Shreve had hoped to apply her investigator skills at a federal level but the COVID-19 pandemic set her back in the job search process. “I always knew looking for a job right out of college was not going to be easy, but I never imagined it being this difficult.” Shreve had interviews prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but since that time, the hiring process was put on hold.
NOTE
TIFFIN UNIVERSITY IS VERY PROUD that a high percentage of its student body are first-generation college students (the first to attend college in their families). The University is also proud that many of its students and alumni could be defined as individuals who challenge conventional wisdom – meaning, they may have been unlikely to succeed based on their upbringing (family, life hardships and roadblocks along the way). Do you feel your story fits within the category of challenging conventional wisdom and if so, would you be willing to share? Email Kaitlyn Boehler, Public Relations Coordinator at boehlerkn@tiffin.edu. In the subject line: Challenging Conventional Wisdom, and within the body of the email, write a short synopsis of why you were unlikely to succeed and who you are today. Did your education from Tiffin University help you succeed? Thank you. COLD CASE / 9
Campus Shoutouts WE ARE DRAGON PROUD
Here are just a few highlights since our last issue. DECEMBER 2019
Eligible Ohio Students to Receive Half Tuition Benefit Tiffin University recognizes that higher education from private universities is often significantly out of reach for many prospective students. The TU Pledge, a new initiative offered by TU beginning 2020-2021, will ensure half tuition for eligible prospective students from Ohio. Eligible students include those who are new full-time, traditional undergraduate students; graduates of an Ohio high school in 2020; who have completed the FAFSA; are residents of Ohio at the time the FAFSA is filed and will be continuously enrolled full-time on campus. For additional information on the TU Pledge, please go to tiffin.edu/finaid/tu-pledge or contact Andrea Faber, Executive Director of Financial Aid, at faberad@tiffin.edu or 419.448.3375.
to take up to two MBA courses each fall and spring semester to satisfy undergraduate open elective credit requirements. The courses include marketing management, management of human resources, quantitative business analysis and research, as well as a required course within the student’s selected concentration. TU and Mercy College of Ohio Collaborate Tiffin University and Mercy College of Ohio have collaborated to create an innovative bachelor’s degree in applied health sciences to begin fall 2020-2021. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Registered nurses are projected to generate approximately 711,900 new jobs, the largest number of new jobs for any occupation,” said TU President Lillian Schumacher. “Students entering TU and completing this dual degree program will help fill the nursing needs in the State of Ohio. Dual credentials will allow students to demonstrate that they have the critical, broader knowledge of allied health sciences to support their practice as a nurse. This new major has the potential to transform our campus as we move to offer degrees in allied health disciplines. Mercy College is the ideal partner in this strategic alliance, focused on student success. We are ecstatic about this partnership.”
JANUARY 2020 Kids Sport Day The Tiffin University Athletic Department hosted its first Kids Sports Day in January. Kids in kindergarten through grade five interacted with coaches and student-athletes from all of TU’s 26 teams. They learned different aspects of various sports, along with teamwork and fair play.
Save Time and Money toward MBA TU will offer MBA classes to qualifying undergraduate degree students, which will count toward a master of business administration degree. Students will not only finish their graduate degrees more quickly, but they will also save money in the long run. Seniors, with a 3.0 GPA or higher will have the opportunity
10 / CAMPUS SHOUT OUTS
New Educational Partnership Tiffin University, Ashland University and the University of Findlay entered into a new educational partnership. Through the new partnership, a 25 percent reduction will be awarded to each institution’s eligible employees, their spouses and children who enroll in either a master’s or doctoral degree program. For more information, contact Tiffin University’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions, admiss@tiffin.edu.
TU Employees Attend Cultural Intelligence Workshop All full-time employees of Tiffin University attended an allday workshop about the university’s multi-year commitment to diversity and inclusion, Celebrating Cul(TU)ral Uniqueness (CCU). The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Sandra Upton, Vice President of Educational Initiatives from the Cultural Intelligence Center. The workshop allowed employees to think and reflect on their lenses of diversity and inclusion, their implicit biases and their ability to understand themselves better to work more effectively with others and more importantly, students.
FEBRUARY 2020
TU ANNOUNCES A NEW CENTER FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OVER TIME, TIFFIN UNIVERSITY has been presented with new opportunities for the sake of helping students succeed. The opportunity that is in front of us now is clear: create new and innovative learning environments that faculty and students need and deserve. This creates environments that reinforce and help enable the student outcomes we desire. A new Center for Science and Technology (aka STEAM Corridor), is part of a much larger vision and ensures that Tiffin University will continue to transform over the next decade. Collectively – and with your support – the larger vision will transform the TU campus and experience, and the lives of students. For good. STEAM Corridor - Center for Science and Technology Science and technology are among our fastest-growing areas of study within Tiffin University, yet this area is the least equipped to provide students with adequate space to learn and practice scientific principles and methods in a laboratory setting. The STEAM Corridor will be seamlessly located between the Hertzer Technology Center and the existing Science Laboratories. By establishing more laboratory and instructional space, a more robust learning experience will occur. The integration of spaces also signals the integration of the interdisciplinary disciplines of chemistry, biology, forensic and applied sciences. Also included is a 2,400 square-foot exercise science laboratory where students will delve deeper into the essential role of physical activity and exercise in the prevention, treatment and recovery from a variety of disease conditions. In all, three new laboratories will ensure that students in forensic science and applied health sciences develop the experiential skills they’ll need in the workforce. “For most of our history, we have been laser-focused on ensuring student success once they leave our classrooms – and we have delivered and will continue to do so. Now it’s time to deliver an on-campus experience aligned with 21st-century ways of learning that will truly differentiate and transform Tiffin University.”
DragonNext, an Innovative Dual Admission Program Terra State Community College (TSCC) and Tiffin University (TU) rolled out DragonNext, an innovative dual admission program. Students would begin the program by applying for an associate degree at TSCC, while purposely planning to transfer to TU for bachelor’s degree completion. This program requires that students must be accepted by TSCC and TU. Students will be able to take one class a semester (for up to four semesters) on TU’s (continued on page 12)
Dr. Lillian Schumacher, Tiffin University President LET’S TRANSFORM TIFFIN UNIVERSITY TOGETHER Schedule a time to meet and discuss the opportunities available and the role you can play in helping us transform the TU experience and the lives of countless students. Please contact Mitch Blonde at 419.448.3584 or blondemp@tiffin.edu. He, or a member of his team will be in touch to talk about what you’d like to accomplish and how that can fit the University’s priorities.
campus, at TSCC’s tuition price. For admission information, email TU’s Office of Undergraduate admissions admiss@tiffin.edu or visit tiffin.edu/dragon-next. School Counselors Visit Campus: Helping Build Better Humans In recognition of National School Counseling Week, Tiffin University invited high school counselors to campus to learn about its new academic programs, the ins and outs of college admissions, College Credit Plus, the financial aid process and how to help students navigate through college athletics. National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), was created to highlight the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career.
MARCH 2020
centration in Forensic Psychology program. Participants learned about what makes TU’s program unique and how they can move through the application process to enroll in their first semester of classes. Virtual Student Research Conference Tiffin University hosted its Second Annual Virtual Research Conference, “Impact of Research,” using Blackboard Collaborate. Sponsored by TU’s Center for Online and Extended Learning, graduate and undergraduate online students presented live in a virtual room. They shared their knowledge and expertise in their field of study. The virtual conference also included a keynote, “Fact of Fiction: Exploring preferences for information consumption,” by Kaylee Lassko, TU graduate and former Virtual Research Conference participant. Lassko’s research explores information consumed across media types with a focus on the propagation of disinformation and misinformation. She is a Senior Operations Research Analyst/Lead Effects Coordinator for SkyBridge Tactical at the U.S. Central Command in Information Operations. Online Demo Course Without Charge Students and community members were given an opportunity to test-drive the experience of online learning at no charge. The course, “Diversity in Education,” explored cultural, ethnic, economic, gender and racial differences and similarities in American society. With no textbook required, students were given one assignment each week and authentic interactions with a Tiffin University faculty member.
MAY 2020 Coins for the Congo Dr. Danielle Foster’s (School of Business) international marketing class welcomed the fifth-grade Waynesfield-Goshen Coins for the Congo group to discuss their mission to bring clean water to a village in the Congo. It was an honor for our international marketing students to encourage young philanthropists with business practices from around the globe.
APRIL 2020 Virtual Open House Tiffin University held a Virtual Forensic Psychology Open House to provide prospective students the opportunity to learn more about the Master of Science in Criminal Justice, with a con-
TU Appoints New VP for Strategic Innovation Ron Lonzo joined TU as VP of Strategic Innovation in May. This new position is an evolving role requiring a complex range of skills to make strategy happen through innovation. Focusing on strategy execution, new business opportunities and new technologies that drive value for students at all levels, Lonzo is a seasoned executive who has lead major initiatives and businesses in varying roles. With over 18 years of experience in higher education within public and private institutions, Ron is a passionate, innovative and dedicated manager/advisor leading growth through increased sales and shaping a culture of change and excellence. Spending time with the State of Wisconsin Department of Administration and Acer America, Ron also brings five years of corporate experience in budgeting, training, and sales. He earned a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin System 1994.
12 / CAMPUS SHOUT OUTS
2020 COMMENCEMENT FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HISTORY, Tiffin University celebrated its 132nd annual commencement ceremony online on Saturday, May 2. “COVID-19 impacted commencement ceremonies around the globe and there was nothing we could do to change that,” Holbrook said. “Because of the social distancing guidelines and restrictions set in place, a traditional ceremony was just not permissible. We wanted to celebrate our students as soon as possible, upon the completion of their degree, because they had earned it and we wanted to honor them. Under all circumstances, a virtual graduation was the one thing we could do to make that happen.” Dr. Claire Johansen, Chair of Tiffin University’s Board of Trustees, provided opening remarks and welcomed students, family and friends. TU’s Provost, Dr. Peter Holbrook lead the virtual CLASS OF 2020 STATS ceremony and the names of 810 graduates were announced by 810 Graduating students Professor Nicholas Reinhard. 1 Graduates receiving their associate’s degrees The song, “World on Your Shoulders,” sung by TU’s musi429 Graduates receiving their bachelor’s degrees cal group, Up in the Air and members of the University Choir 380 Graduates receiving their master’s degrees inspired Holbrook to repeat the chorus line from the song…“I’m 162 Graduates receiving their master’s degrees with distinction here standing with you, you’re standing here with me, stand (4.0 G.P.A.) ing with the world on our shoulders.” 230 Graduates receiving their bachelor’s degrees with honors TU’s President, Dr. Lillian Schumacher, welcomed and (3.5 G.P.A.) congratulated the new graduates. Reflecting on the past few 48 Washington D.C. and U.S. states represented months, President Schumacher couldn’t help but think just 17 Different countries represented how extraordinary the Class of 2020 was. “I hope that you continue to dream big and aim high, and know that you’ll be able to achieve whatever it is you set your minds to,” she said. Dr. Reginald Wilkinson, President of Connecting the Dots, LLC, delivered the commencement address. Dr. Wilkinson, who also serves on TU’s Board of Trustees, reflected on Dragon pride and how Tiffin University has prepared its students for this monumental achievement. “Graduation is the icing on a green and gold cake,” he said, “but educational attainment is a lifelong journey.” Along their journey, Dr. Wilkinson encourages the graduates to become trailblazers. “Don’t just casually navigate your way through life,” he said. “Make a definable difference. Do something that no one else has done. Be an expert problem solver and do it all with gusto.” He also advises the Class of 2020 to embrace change. “There is nothing more permanent in our lives than change. How we confront change and challenges will define our lives. Through it all, always maintain a glass-half-full outlook.” For many students, like Baleigh Searles, graduation is a huge milestone. “Graduating college is my biggest accomplishment,” she said. Baleigh is a first-generation college graduate. “It would have been an honor to walk across the stage at commencement, but I respect TU’s decision to keep everyone safe. Whether a traditional ceremony or virtual, I know my parents are proud of me either way.” Baleigh celebrated her accomplishment with family, particularly with her younger sister Morgan. Morgan is also a 2020 graduate from Hopewell Loudon. She took TU classes through their College Credit Plus program in her senior year. The girls donned their caps and gowns to watch the virtual ceremony together as a family. Baleigh earned a bachelor’s degree in digital forensics. To view TU’s virtual commencement, please visit tiffin.edu/commencement. COMMENCEMENT / 13
Student Spotlight TU CREATES AN ENVIRONMENT FOR STUDENT SUCCESS
GROWING UP QUICKLY
Briana Streib
Hometown: Galion, Ohio
Human Resources with a minor in marketing
Expected year of graduation: December 2020
“AT A YOUNG age, I had to endure things that other kids didn’t,” said Tiffin University senior, Briana Streib. Briana was born while her parents were still in high school - at which time her father immediately joined the Army and her mother dabbled in drugs. It was up to Briana to choose a different path. “My mom worked two, sometimes three jobs to support my half-sister and me,” said Briana. “It wasn’t enough, and we often went on food stamps.” Beginning at the age of ten, Briana entered the workforce. She delivered newspapers to local neighborhoods before getting a work permit to work at McDonald’s. She had to earn extra money to pay for clothes, food, sports activities and essentials. Briana stretched herself thin as a full-time student, athlete and employee. She was barely home, trying to distance herself from her feelings of uncertainty and neglect. Although her home life was unstable, work and school provided her a sense of security. “We moved around a lot,” said Briana. “It was hard for me to know whether I could call a place home. I wasn’t sure how long I would be living there.” Briana bounced house to house between shared parenting with her grandparents and mother. Eventually, her mother married and their family of three grew to a family of seven. Briana’s instability forced her to grow up quickly. She knew it was time to take her responsibilities a step further. “When I turned sixteen, I started the process to become emancipated,” she said. “I had a bad relationship with my mom growing up. She had an addiction, and I didn’t want to fall into the same path. I had a clear future for myself.” The process of emancipation wasn’t easy. It took nearly two years. During the emancipation process, her living conditions worsened. “During my junior year of high school, we got kicked out for not paying our bills,” said Briana. “We then moved into a mobile home that was not in great condition. I found myself counting down the days until I could move into a college dorm.”
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT / 14 COMMENCEMENT / 15
A few months later, Briana’s mom and stepdad separated. Rather than following them, she stayed in the mobile home. “It was a wake-up call,” she said. Briana had to pay bills on time and get groceries all by herself. Not that many teenagers have to do those things, which gave Briana a sense of independence. But independence and responsibility always come at a price. Briana had plans to attend college and began to worry about how she would afford the cost. “I had to apply for every scholarship possible to pay for college,” said Briana. “Winning numerous scholarships paid for my first two years of college, debt free. I was able to quit my job for the first time and focus on my education and athletic ability in track. I wanted a degree to support myself and my future family.” Earning scholarships from Tiffin University was Briana’s first real support system. “Those who donate to the scholarship fund support students and their future,” she said. “I’m beyond thankful for everything I have received.” Attending Tiffin University was one of the best decisions Briana made. Tiffin University became Briana’s home and provided her a second family. “Everyone at TU is supportive,” she said. Her professors helped her with coursework and offered emotional support, especially when family problems arose. “My Dragon family is everything. Tiffin University will always be my home.” “One of the biggest life lessons I can take away is that your past doesn’t control your future,” said Briana. “Where you come from doesn’t decide where you’re going. You can always do better and set yourself up for greatness. Although life can be challenging, it doesn’t mean it’s bad. You can rise up, learn and grow. The bad always turns into good.” Briana will graduate in December of 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in human resources. She currently works for the North End Community Improve Collaborative, Inc. (NECIC) and has accepted a full-time position at Harmony House as an HR Administrator. She plans to get married in February 2021. To learn more about how you can leave a lasting legacy and ultimately impact the lives of students like Briana, contact Mitchell P. Blonde, CFRE at blondemp@tiffin.edu or 419.448.3584.
BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE
FINDING PASSION
Devin Kupka
Ryan Harris
Hometown: Fremont, Ohio
Hometown: Belleville, Michigan
Law enforcement with a minor in homeland security
Business administration with a concentration in system and network support and software development
Expected year of graduation: 2020
and terrorism Expected year of graduation: 2020
GRADUATING COLLEGE WAS a dream come true for Tiffin University senior, Ryan Harris. With determination and ambition, Ryan accomplished a goal he never thought was possible. “I truly did not see myself attending college early on in my life,” said Ryan. “I didn’t think I had what it took to excel at the college level. There were people who told me that maybe college wasn’t for me and that I should pursue a junior college after high school. But I always saw something larger for myself and I was determined to make it.” The phrase “There is no elevator to success. You have to take the stairs,” echoes Ryan’s college journey. For most of us, like Ryan, things don’t happen overnight. He had to work hard to make progress on his goals. Ryan didn’t take shortcuts like an elevator or skipped steps. He took one small victory at a time and kept climbing. Each step built his strength and taught him the value of hard work. “My life is a testimony of resilience; nothing has ever been handed to me,” said Ryan. “With hard work, consistency and my family believing in me, I was able to accomplish my goal of graduating college. I remained positive and kept faith that things would get better along with my pursuit. My journey shines a bright light on the fact that all dreams are within reach if a person is willing to work hard.” Ryan took a chance when he applied to Tiffin University. He was unsure of what was ahead of him, but TU supported him every step along the way. “Tiffin University helped me succeed,” he said. “The endless amount of opportunities I was given has afforded me the chance to make a difference on campus and in the community. I established strong relationships with my professors and gained a deeper understanding of my academics in a small classroom setting.” “Tiffin University puts its students first,” Ryan continued. “TU allows its students to grow and pursue endeavors. Whatever a student aspires to be, they will see it through. If a student wants to evolve, they will make consistent strides toward growth. Those types of altruistic values in a university are invaluable.” Ryan just graduated this year with a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement and a minor in homeland security and terrorism. At TU, he was involved in peer mentoring, residence life, campus security, student government, the fraternity Phi Theta Pi and was the president and founder of “Helping Hearts” community service organization. Ryan aspires to help society while being the change he wants to see in the world. In the future, he hopes to be a criminal investigator.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT / 15
FROM A YOUNG age, we are told that work will fill a large part of our lives and that we should love what we do. Life is too short, and we shouldn’t waste our time on the tireless grind of a job we aren’t passionate about. Some of us are fortunate to find our drive before and even during college. Tiffin University senior Devin Kupka did just that! “When I was a junior in high school, I attended a computer course at Vanguard-Sentinel Tech Center,” said Devin. “That’s when I found my passion for information technology.” Devin attended Terra State Community College for two years before transferring to Tiffin University. “I was impressed with their computer program. It definitely cemented my decision to attend TU.” Devin’s desire for IT flourished at Tiffin University. He became a help desk student worker in the IT department. “Getting a job at TU was one of the best things to happen to me,” he said. “The skills I learned and the connections I made helped me secure positions with multiple organizations.” In 2019, Devin was offered two internships. He accepted the offer from Fremont’s Great Lake Community Action Partnership (GLCAP) and worked in their IT department during the summer. “Working at TU’s help desk, as well as the work I completed in the classroom, gave me the experience to serve the GLCAP better,” said Devin. His opportunities didn’t stop there. Devin was recently offered a full-time position at Webster Industries. He believes his internship and experience as a student worker helped him get hired almost immediately. Devin is thankful for his time at Tiffin University, particularly with the IT Department. “Being a student worker at TU had a major impact on my career,” he said. “I was provided real-world experience in an environment where I could ask questions and make mistakes. I also learned a lot of things that normal classroom environments can’t provide.” He learned how to set-up and repair computers and troubleshoot printers. More importantly, Devin learned how to be a better communicator and team member. Devin will graduate in 2020 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in System and Network Support and Software Development. “I enjoy my career choice as an IT technician,” said Devin. “It doesn’t feel like much work to me; it’s just something I enjoy doing. When you find a job you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Donor Honor Roll
Dear Alumni & Friends: TIFFIN UNIVERSITY DEEPLY appreciates each and every gift from our incredibly generous donors. Your support increases student scholarships, improves academic and athletic programs and enhances current facilities while allowing TU to build new ones. Simply stated, your continued contributions directly impact the lives of those we serve. Through this Donor Honor Roll, we recognize gifts from donors that support all areas of the University. For all clubs, membership is determined by gifts made during the previous fiscal year, which is May 1, 2019 — April 30, 2020. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented. Please accept our apology for any errors or omissions. Should you have any changes, corrections or questions, please contact our office at 419.448.3282. Sincerely,
Mitchell P. Blonde, CFRE Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Public Affairs / Chief Advancement Officer Office of Institutional Advancement & Public Affairs tiffin.edu/advancement/giving
THE HAZEL FRANKS SOCIETY Planned gifts include – but are not limited to – bequests, life insurance and charitable gift annuities. Members of The Hazel Franks Society have designated TU as a beneficiary of a planned gift(s). We thank the following Hazel Franks Society members for their thoughtful and generous planning that will, one day in the future, benefit our students. Anonymous Michael and Rosann Arbogast Jeanette Conley Ian and Sarah Day Andrew and Leslie Felter Blythe Friedley Dr. and Mrs. Michael Grandillo Gary and Jane Heminger William F. Hertzer Dr. George and Diane Kidd D. Ted and Francine Kuenzli Penny Leighty Paul and Susan Marion Dr. John and Joyce Millar Walter and Katherine Nutter William T. Patterson Pamela A. Russell P. Leighton Sayers Daryl W. Weiningerr
TIFFIN SOCIETY TRANSFORMATIONAL CIRCLE Lifetime Giving: $1,000,000 +
Gary R. ‘73, ‘77 and Jane Heminger Frank E. and Paula Murphy William F. Hertzer ‘60 and Norma Wagner
TIFFIN SOCIETY AMBASSADOR CIRCLE
Lifetime Giving: $500,000 - $999,999 National Machinery Foundation Anthony J. Paradiso and DeAnn Krauss ‘00 Timothy J. and Sandy Paradiso Old Fort Banking Company Superior Distributing Co., Inc. Kris and Shannon Klepper Michael R. and Karen Klepper
TIFFIN SOCIETY INVESTOR CIRCLE
Lifetime Giving $250,000 - $499,999 Larry and Jeanne Adelsperger Ascendium Gertrude and Homer Chisholm Lenny J. ‘74 and Lynn Clouse GE Foundation David L. ‘76 and Patty Hayes Joseph R. and Diana M. Kirk Penny L. Leightey Marathon Petroleum Corporation Meshech Frost Charitable Trust Walter M. and Katharine L. Nutter P.T. Services Rehabilitation, Inc.
TIFFIN SOCIETY VISIONARY CIRCLE
Lifetime Giving: $100,000 - $249,999 ACI Construction Company BAS Broadcasting Cole Family Foundation Charles and Patty Cole Fifth Third Bank France Stone Foundation The Paul M. and Lucy J. Gillmor Charitable Foundation Herrick Foundation I Know I Can Duane E. and Kathleen E. Jebbett Claire F. Johansen ‘92 and Michael L. Pfefferle Kresge Foundation Laminate Technologies, Inc. Fred E. and Kem Zoeller Osceola Foundation, Inc. Reineke Family Dealerships Dan and Nikki Reineket William Reineke, Jr. ‘92 William F. Reineke, Sr. and Evelyn Marker Robert G. Friedman Foundation
Schell Foundation Russell and Marguerite Stephenson Foundation Thomas H. Miller Tiffin Community Foundation
TIFFIN SOCIETY LEADERSHIP CIRCLE ($50,000 or more)
Larry and Jeanne Adelsperger AVI FoodSystems, Inc. Duane E. and Kathleen E. Jebbett National Machinery Foundation P.T. Services Rehabilitation, Inc.
TIFFIN SOCIETY DEVELOPER’S CIRCLE ($25,000 - $49,999)
Joseph R. and Diana M. Kirk Frank E. and Paula Murphy Murphy Consolidated Group LLC James and Ann Schmidt
TIFFIN SOCIETY TRUSTEE CIRCLE ($10,000 - $24,999)
Lenny J. ’74 and Lynn Clouse Clouse Construction Corp. Hensel Ready Mix, Inc. Michael and Dolores Herbert Claire F. Johansen ’92 and Michael L. Pfefferle Michael R. and Karen Klepper Laminate Technologies, Inc. Mary E. Lewis ’86 Marathon Petroleum Corporation Ford and Kate Mennel Timothy J. and Sandy Paradiso Dan and Nikki Reineke William F. Reineke, Sr. and Evelyn Marker William Reineke, Jr. ’92 Reineke Family Dealerships Raymond M. ’10, ’15 and Kristen L. (Ameling) Robinson ’09, ’12 Russell and Marguerite Stephenson Foundation Stephen and Diane Schult The Huntington National Bank Webster Industries and the Webster Foundation Fred E. and Kem Zoeller Rich and Laurie Anne Zydonik
TIFFIN SOCIETY FOUNDER’S CIRCLE ($5,000 - $9,999)
ACI Construction Company Anonymous Donald and Marilyn Ballreich Domino’s Pizza Brian and Jennifer Edler Andrew J. ’94 and Leslie Felter
Greater Cincinnati Foundation: Little aaangels Fund Donald Hampton II ’89, ’98 Doug Hiegel Robert D. and Tina Hisrich Tommy* and Ann Hunnicutt Ravi T. Kakarala ’98 Richard C. and Sabrina Kirk Anthony J. Paradiso and DeAnn Krauss ’00 Lane of Dreams Farm LLC Mercy Health - Tiffin Hospital John J. and Joyce Millar ’96 George ’95 and Sharon A. (Broka) Miller ’98 Jeffrey and Cindy Oravitz Robert E. ’03 and Brandie Petras Ron M. Jr. ’96 and Lillian Schumacher Schwab Charitable Fund Team Sports Trinity Transportation US Bank Foundation Grants Program
TIFFIN SOCIETY HERITAGE CIRCLE ($2,500 - $4,999)
Baumann Chevrolet Buick GMC, Inc. BKD Auditors Robert E. Buchanan ’18 Michael A. Bush ’02 and Anna Soref Charles and Patty Cole Cole Family Foundation Steven C. and Jennifer D. Copeland Ellucian Company L.P. Frances A. Fleet Rose M. Frick Mark T. ’86 and Connie S. Griffin John A. ’11 and Alison A. (Dittman) Havrilla ’11, ’17 Richard E. and Cynthia A. Helton Jimmy John’s - Tiffin Allan M. and Loretta J. Kaplan John D. and Susan Kinn Kris and Shannon Klepper Derek W. and Anne M. Lange-DeVine Carmen A. and Julie R. Mangiola Marathon Employee Political Action Committee Paul and Susan Marion Donald B. and Theresa A. (Stephens) Nibblett ’84 Ohio Concrete Resurfacing Inc Orthopaedic Institute Of Ohio, Inc. Paul Cole Motors Pepsi-Cola General Bottlers, Inc. Ralph B. ’15 and Katherine E. (Gerhardt) Robinson ’14 Subway of Tiffin/Fleetwinds, Inc. Superior Credit Union Superior Distributing Co., Inc. Aaron and Rachel (Szablewski) Taylor ’05 Tiffin Community Foundation Reginald Wilkinson
TIFFIN SOCIETY PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE ($1,000 - $2,499)
Lonny ’91 and Julie A. Allen ’08 American Insurance Administrators, Inc. Apex Clean Energy Holdings, LLC Michael S. ’07, ’14 and Carrie Barr Carl F. ’61 and Theresa M. Arnold Assured Title Agency Gary A. Barber Bascom Communications Jeffrey L. ’99 and Michelle Beard Jonathan W. Beard Alexis A. Berg-Townsend ’03 Mitchell P. and Dawn M. Blonde Nathan J. and Rachel L. Brickner Brian L. ’90 and Karen S. Brown Rudy Brownell ’96, ’02 and Brittany M. Davidson ’16 Buckeye IT Services, LLC Stephen M. Carrick ’09 Annie Carter Lynn (Roeder) Child ’73 Daniel and Kim Clark Frank Clark David J. and Shelley Claus Richard H. III ’02 and Brenda S. (Holtrey) Collins ’08 Croghan Colonial Bank Crown Battery Jeremy and Meladie Croy Steven R. and Kimberly A. Dandurand Charles Daughenbaugh Chris ’95 and Jennifer Deal Thomas and Jonnie Debbink Robert J. and Angie Dornauer Cynthia A. Dunne Jacole M. Eaton ’10 Charles Eingle Andrew R. ’03, ’06 and Andrea D. (Howse) Faber ’04, ’06 Brian K. ’94 and Bridget Falter Cortney Feehan ’07 Financial Design Agency of Ohio, Inc. Findlay Surgery Center First Federal Bank of Defiance Stephan P. and Donna Frank Blythe A. Friedley ’69 Owen L. Fritz ’12 Andrew J. and Anne H. Gase Jeff Gillmor Jack W. Greene ’64 Gary O. ’87 and Samantha L. Gruss James R. and Ann Gucker Perry and Meg Haan Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP Joyce Hall-Yates C. William and Denise Harple David L. ’76 and Patty Hayes Michael Herdlick Kyle G. ’11 and Nikki Hintze ’11 Lisa Hohman Peter Holbrook and Tom Hoffman Matthew J. ’95 and Julie Hoover Hylant Jim and Jannelle Johnson Journey Financial Solutions Group * Deceased
DONOR HONOR ROLL / 17
Michael J. and JoElla Kerschner Chris and Kristi A. (Smith) Krintzline ’03 Arthur and Dianne Krumsee D. Ted ’67 and Francine (Janotta) Kuenzli ’66 Jeff Kuhn and Sharon Rigby Lange, Gordon, Rannigan & Claus LLC John and Rebecca (Boes) Lay ’72 Chris and Sue Lewis Ron and Sharon A. (Foss) Lucas ’66 Craig and Ellen Lucius Scott T. Lyons Kevin and Shelly Maiberger Yaw O. Mamphey ’07, ’09 Marco’s Pizza Jeremy J. ’02 and Jamie L. Marinis Daniel and Laura A. Mays Brandon and Kellie C. (Jakubowski) McGilvray ’99 Steve and Corri Miller Thomas H. Miller David E. ’65 and Carolyn Mitchell MJK Enterprises LLC Shane Parendo Robert M. Parks Anthony J. and Pam Paulus Susan Payne Perry Pro Tech Sharon L. Perry-Fantini ’03, ’04 and Ana P. Fantini Anthony M. ’94 and Kelly Petrosino Pioneer Mill Melani L. Pratt ’03 Quick Tab II, Inc. Ralph’s Joy of Living Zachary A. Reidenbaugh ’06 Weston Reinbolt and Suzie Reineke-Reinbolt Nicholas Reinhard Michael ’76, ’77 and Sue A. Reser ’92, ’10 Robert C. ’77 and Linda S. (Doepker) Ritzler ’77 Robert J. Dornauer DDS, Inc. Gary E. Robinette ’72 Ernest Runco Jan H. Samoriski P. Leighton Sayers ’68 Eugene N. and Betty Schalk Mark and Teresa E. Shafer Jay T. Sharrock ’89 Jamie L. and Heather M. (Belknap) Slaven ’96 Aaron M. and Donene Smith Jon Snyder Mark S. and Amy J. Somodi SPEC Athletic, Inc. Ron ’67 and Karen J. Stiltner James C. and Ellie Streacker Terry D. and Sherry Sullivan The Bank of America Charitable Foundation The Premier School of Pickerington Gregory ’87 and Bonnie Tiell Kevin C. and Melissa R. (Jones) Tiell ’11 Tiffin Rotary Foundation TPC Food Service Blake N. and Julie Tucker Diane Tymiak US Bank, NA
Robert G. ’81 and Judy Watson Daryl W. ’74 and Mary Ellen Weininger Brandt and Makenzie Weininger Weininger Family Dentistry Stephen E. ’77 and Marilyn Werling John and Nicoletta Wilaj Stephen D. ’90 and Lisa W. (Weasner) Williams ’89 Aaron G. ’03 and Amy R. (Bumb) Wood ’03 Todd and Lisa Young Your Legacy Federal Credit Union Axel and Wendy J. Ziems-Mueller ’18
TORCH CLUB ($500.00 - $999.99)
American Fine Sinter Company Ltd. Arena North America LLC Randy A. Aube ’82 BD Diesel & Auto, LLC Better Business Planning Borden Perlman Insurance Agency David J. and Maureen Boyd Jeffery Bradley Harry L. Burd ’63 Ronald R. and Evelyn L. Burns BZ Auto Group Christopher L. ’03 and Heather Chase Chipotle Mexican Grill Chuck and Jenny Clouse Clouse Electric, Inc. Ken Cook Gregory M. (Bud), Jr. ’09, ’11 and Sara (Durkee) Dunn ’10 Eastman & Smith LTD. Entrepreneurial Ventures, Inc First National Bank of Sycamore Follett Higher Education Group, Inc. Dennis E. ’68 and Gail C. (Kraft) Foos ’68 Steven E. and Nancy Gilbert Rhonda C. Gilreath ’98 Matthew R. Gorman ’07, ’10 Mircea ’07 and Erika Handru Drew and Elise J. (Pfefferle) Hanley ’07, ’12 Douglas Havekost Keith Hodkinson Karen and Bill Hoffert Jeffrey D. Shawberry, D.D.S., Inc Sarah T. (DePugh) Johnson ’07 Kerry L. Jones David and JoAnn King ’99 King Industrial Supply Inc. Kevin and Nadia Lewis Madison Street Pub & Grub Ed and Barb Mason Jason E. and Brittani McClaflin McDonald’s of Fremont-Tiffin Patrick McLeod Steve Meadows Modern Woodmen Financial Services Walter M. and Katharine L. Nutter Pacesetter Soccer Club William T. Patterson Tim Plaatje Powell Supply International Margene P. (Pingle) Reese ’44 Amy R. Schwartz Jeffrey D. and Eleanor Anderson
St. Louis Series of Lockton Companies, LLC Ronald L. Thompson ’65 Thrivent Financial James Tippen United Ohio Insurance Co. Vantage Athletic Paul ’72 and Joyce Weaver Michael W. Jr. ’91 and Michelle K. (Perry) Wisnor ’93 Steven and Dee Zeffiro-Krenisky
GREEN AND GOLD CLUB ($250.00 - $499.99)
David T. ’05 and Rebecca A. (Albert) Abraham ’00, ’11 Greg Acuna Larry and Coreen Adolph Advertiser-Tribune Haseeb and Rahat Ahmed Jill M. Aldrich ’15 Anonymous Richard and Barbara Badgett Scott E. ’99 and Hope Blough Mike Boswell Chris E. II ’96 and Amy Brady Matt Brandt Eric Burns Donnie and Marlene Butt John Campbell Michael S. Campbell Captured by MM Photography Thomas and Marcia Cardelli Mary Carpenter Mary Jo (Weaver) Carroccio ’63 Brad Carson Donald Carunchio Jorge Castilla CD Sears MD, Inc. Andy Clouse ’90 Wilbur E. Cole ’50 Ty and Jennifer Cooper John Jr. and Jennifer Coppus Coppus Motors, Inc. William P. ’66 and Janis L. Crohen Ian and Sarah B. Day ’02 Scott and Cindy Densmore Mark E. ’04 and Erin Dircksen Diversified Graphics, Inc. Eamonn B. Dooley ’06 Dan ’07 and Elizabeth Dower Mike and Melanie DuMonte James R. ’71 and Ilse (Roehrich) Faist ’70 Bart M. Fisher ’04 Marko T. Flowers ’01 Stacey Floyd Devin and Rebecca Frank William L., Jr. ’94 and Shannon Frye David Gealy Steven Gilland Richard A. Goeb Ken and Linda Good Dale Graham Grand Rental Station Michael A. and Nancy Grandillo Kevin L. Grimes ’01 Jim L. Hammond Grant R. Heminger ’09 18 / DONOR MORE THAN HONOR A JOB ROLL
Chris and Amila Herbert Christine Hosinski Rich Hurles Jeffrey Jewelry JKD Rentals, LLC Chaderick ’08 and Bridgett M. (Kolbow) Johnson ’10 Andrew H. and Cindy Kalnow Byron Kaverman Robert C. Keplinger ’11 KGS Ohio, LLC Jillynda A. Kirian John T. Kleinoeder Diane M. (Frederick) Klopfenstein ’82 and Kraig T. Klopfenstein Scott J. Kromer W. E. Jr. and Ruth E. Lape John W. ’69 and Alison S. (Birkholtz) Lauer ’67 John H. ’12 and Bethany L. Leary ’15 Heather Lee Travis Litras Hayley Lovett-Kelly Zhaolu Lu Mark Akers, M.D. Inc. Craig L. Marshall ’98 Francisco Mateo Matthew D. McCabe Timothy McCarty McElwain Brothers Paint and Collision Center Victor and Laura Melfe Amber D. (Metzgar) Metzgar ’07 Mike’s Stop Shop LLC Geoffrey Morris National Machinery LLC Robert E. and Terris R. Payne Ryan N. ’07 and Jaclyn M. (Burton) Pessell ’07 Lisa M. and William H. Piasecki Michael L. ’01 and Debora J. (Nielsen) Pine ’94 Christopher R. Pistorio ’12 Steve and Stacy Radabaugh Kurt W. ’07 and Casey Rammel Irma M. (Scagnetti) Ramsey ’59 Tom Reisert Andrew and Julie L. Richards Bryce Riggs Ross Drywall Inc. Jeremy and Deborah Roszman Sacksteder Worland Insurance Agency, Inc. Scott W. Saracusa ’04, ’08 Scott Scales Christopher and Amanda Sears Lori Ann A. See Lanny and Elaine Sigo Sound Solutions of Ohio LLC State Farm Companies Foundation Kenneth C. ’97 and Jennifer L. Tener Derek M. ’97 and Amanda L. Thomas Jean Thomas Jim E. ’59 and Sharon L. Thomas Tiffin Barbell Club, LLC Tiffin Deluxe Services, Inc. US Bancorp Foundation Julie L. and Rod Vogel Judy (McDaniel) Von Blon ’62
George L. Wagner ’66 James M. ’97 and Karri Walker Charles D. ’76 and Beverly J. Walton John A. and Shelley Wank Joseph W. ’01 and Melissa Weininger Merris A. Jr. ’55 and Jean Welge Wendy’s Phillip A. Westfall ’02 Sharon Whetnall Mark T. Widman ’84 Joseph ’07 and Victoria M. (Galaska) Wilkins ’09, ’11 William Vaughan Company Roger Woods Scott A. and Tonia M. Woods Deborah Wright Geoffrey and Ellen Wright Ali I. Yurekli David P. ’70 and Susan L. Zorn
DRAGON’S CLUB ($100.00 - $249.99)
Scot Acree Ryan and Holly A. Allgood ’19 Mario Antenor Jonathan K. ’14 and Do Hee Kim-Appel Anthony Aquino Lauretta Archual Charles W. and Linda Ardner Larry R. ’69 and Deborah L. Arend Elizabeth Athaide-Victor Kenneth Badylak Justin Baker ’08 Zachary J. Ball ’08, ’10 Caitlyn G. Bass ’17 Chelsea E. Bass ’15 Chris Bean Tom Bean Craig Bennett Joshua and Leanne M. (Lucius) Benson ’09 Keith V. and Nancy C. Berlan Laura Bernard Richard Berrington Jessica Bigg ’17 Melissa Bigg ’13 Robert A. Blickenstaff ’69 Kaitlyn N. Boehler ’17, ’19 Amy Boes Boes Brothers Excavating and Trucking Kevin Bohn Douglas B. and Beth A. Bonnoront Lloyd and Carol Borowski Shane Borowski Joanne L. Bower ’87 Gilbert P. Brosky ’01 Erica Brown Josh Burgess Aaron V. Burton Sandra K. Butzin Cardinal Health Foundation Jessica Carmack Jim Carpenter Carolyn Cartwright Daryl Caryer Gregory Caryer Kevin and Julie Cashen Leah Cassorla
Angela Chambers Don Chargin Thomas L. Church Hank Clark Terri Clark Nancy A. Cochran ’90 Gary L. ’78, ’81, ’92 and Charlotte Cole Brian and Duana N. (Scherley) Coleman ’98 Brema C. (Konst) Colvin ’51 Philip T. Conley ’08, ’09 Sharlene Cooper Allen K. ’60 and Elaine M. Corfman Gene L. Corfman ’60 Rock L. ’83 and Tina Craft Cameron S. Cruickshank ’03 Rodney M. ’03 and Kelly A. (Dick) Daniel ’95 D’Andre Davis Mr. and Mrs. Richard Day Erin Dean James M. ’73 and Marilyn Deats Digger’s College City Bowl Lori A. Distel Stacie Dobson Wesley M. Dodsworth Kimberly M. Dolan ’12 Lisa M. (Momenee) Draves ’13 Dry Creek Valley Farm Tonia Duncum Robin K. Dunlap Marilynn Dunn Luann Edwards Charles and Lacy K. (Cherry) Ellis ’06, ’07 Phillip Erich Stephen J. Feasel ’77 Ann Ferguson Mark Final JoAnn Finley Michael ’92 and Jeanie M. Fisher Mark A. Fishpaw ’93 Frances Ford Danielle and Corey Foster Kent and Nancy Frey Michael Frey Venkataramana and Redhika Gajjala Shawn Gayheart Rachel Gealy Jim Gibbons Richard J. Gibson ’48 Kathleen Gigl Michael P. Gilliland Gary P. ’56 and Joan Godfred Becky Golden Rich Golden Craig Goodwin Derick Grant Linda Gray Jeff Grayer Marie Gregg Christopher J. ’15 and Judy Hafley Angel Hale Paris Hale Gregory J. Halvacs ’78 Angela (Martorana) Harrison ’04 Deidre A. Hassinger ’09, ’11, ’15 Bonita Haubert David Haubert John D. ’72 and Bobbye J. Haughawout CHALLENGE DONOR HONOR MAGAZINE ROLL / 19
Andrew and Elaine Havrilla Richard and Stephanie Havrilla Travis Heitsche Mary Hellyer Erica L. Henry ’00, ’02 Timothy A. Heppner Sr. ’68 Tyler and Audrey Heslet Cortland N. ’58 and Jean Heykoop Paulette Heyman Calvin J. ’05 and Diane Higgins Nakia Hill Charles Hodges Brock Hodson Hoffman, Gottfried, Mack, Funeral Home Frances W. (Myers) Holm ’69 Suzanne Homer Larry J. ’59 and Marty E. (Slaybaugh) Hoover ’57 Joe N. and Alyssa Horn ’18 Amanda Hummel Shauna R. Hurles ’16 Steven D. and Cathy Hurwitz Mary E. Huth Jerry E. Hutter ’64 Annette Icardi Korab Imami ’15 Joanne L. Bower, CPA Charley H. Johnson Robert Johnson Randy and Mavis Jones Kenneth Jordan Timothy Jordan Steven R. and Kimberly L. Justinger David A. and Beth A. (Omlor) Kagy ’93 Carl F. and Kris Kalnow Angie Karmie Dennis Kear ’64, ’72 and Connie J. Kear Diane Kelly KeyBank Foundation Angela King Paul G. and Shirley L. King Michael C. ’77 and Mary P. Kirchner Richard and Carol J. Kline ’12 Matt Kochheiser Lee J. and Sandra K. Koehler Brian Kohr Lisa Kohr Rodney and Amy (Buck) Kuhl ’09 Randall A. ’07 and Jennifer Laibe Bruce and Doris M. Lambert ’94 Don W. and Jane Lanbeloh Ron and Virginia Larabee Michael A. and Deborah L. Larick Fang-Mei Law Floyd J. ’64 and Susan Lawless William Lennig Michael R. ’05 and Mary L. Lewis Gina Lucci Ali Lukungu ’03, ’05 John J. Lundin ’71 Meghan Lunsford Sarah MacLachlan David Magee Diane Mahon Stanley E. ’70 and Carol G. (Bockbrader) Manbeck ’67 Raymond J. Jankowski and Cynthia Manbeck Jankowski ’77
T. Mancheron Alexandra Manfredo Robert A. ’71 and Carolyn S. Manz Thomas R. Marben Frank A. ’70 and Wendy L. Worringer John Marnicio Paul J. Matias ’17 Michelle C. Maus Julie Mazur Duncan McCarthy Ryan and Natalie McClain Najet and Sami Mejri Steven and Rhonda Melchi Jeff M. ’01 and Cheryl A. Merkle Charles and Janice Metzger Lisa Meyers Carrie Miklovich Jacob T. Miller Tom R. and Nadine A. (Ruth) Miller ’89 Steve Miller Michael J. and Teresa R. Miller ’99 Nathan Minich Beau Minnick Jason Moody David I. ’60 and Laurie Moon Joseph M. and Linda S. Moore Wayne and Joan Moore Riley P. ’10 and Emily Morman Wade Morrell Kenneth Nagel Steven and Lisa Neth Jeff and Mindy Nickerson Niles Foods LLC Shane K. ’13 and Dinelle O’Donnell Anthony Oliastro Daniel Oliastro Yvonne Ovial Rodney and Rhonda Palmer John L. Payne Jon D. Perkowski ’05 Dwayne Phillips Dan Picciuto Bill Pickett Carol Plaatje Ryan C. and Lori S. Planchon ’09 Andrew and Alexandria Quast ’13 Jack Quisno Arlene Rahm Curt Rammel Catherine F. Rathburn ’91 Steven A. Rau Dr. Kenneth Rauch Bradley A. and Allison L. Rees Susan Reiter Mark E. and Laurie A. Repp Daimen Ricci Greg ’91 and Jodi Richards Kim Richards Brett Richey Brian and Terese Richey Scott and Tangi Ritchie ’16 Dorothy L. (Tuck) Robey ’49 Chanda Robinson Shelley Rogers Jessica Romo Matthew D. ’09 and Anna Root Pamela A. Russell ’95 Karen Ryan Mike Ryan * Deceased
Nickolas and Jennifer L. Saam Donald G. Sabato ’67 Dr. Mark Sabo Stephen R. Saddler ’16 Mr. Eugene L. Sager Robert Saltsman Eugene ’66 and Michelle Sanders Nicholas and Pamela J. (Fox) Schalk ’01 Jason Schaub Michelle Schaub Mark A. and Marla (Crall) Scheffler ’84 Thomas D. ’92 and Arlene Rahm Thomas A. ’62 and Mary Jane (Hammer) Scherger ’62 Mark and Jo E. Sciulli ’03 Francois and Barbara Seguin David J. Selnick Richard A. ’67, ’79 and Sharon A. Shaffer Tracey Sherman SIEDC Joseph and Sally Simcoe Jacob A. Simon ’13 Earl F. ’77 and Tamara S. Sleek James and Joan Smith Larry R. Smith ’02 Patrick and Leanne K. Smith ’97 Thomas and Sheryl Smith Russell D. ’14 and Erica Snyder Geovanni Soto Christine St. Jean Mejia Daniel J. ’00 and Julie A. (Kryder) Starkweather ’07, ’11 Bernard J. ’81 and Michelle Steinmetz Jennifer L. Steinmetz Kylie Stocker ’16 Stephanie Sukie Connie Sullivan Krista K. (Miller) Swanagan ’01, ’07 Bradford Tanner ’96 Louis M. ’99 and Dianna Tarone Robert M. and L.F. Teunion Mark L. Thomas ’06 Michelle Thomas
Thomas A. Thompson ’94 Tiffin Ace Hardware Angie Torain Alex ’15 and Carissa C. (Catalano) Tuliraba ’14 Robert C. ’08 and Vicki L. Uppenkamp Joseph VanKerkhove Dominic and Diane Vassalle Ashley N. Vaughn ’08 Randy and Melissa K. Waire Sherry Ward Kevin Warren Janet Watson Terry and Janet Watson Donna Watts Stacy T. Watts Kevin C. Weber Michelle Wesner Richard C. and Valerie A. Wesner Curtis B. Westen C. Michael White Jim White Elijah Whiteside Rebecca Wiehe Lauren N. Wilhelm ’09, ’15 Bruce and Sandy Williams David E. and Susan L. Williams Kevin and Bridgett B. Williams Scott Willmott Connie Wirth Carl W. Jr. ’46 and Mary Yeager John and Gilberta Zaku Lockwood and Mary Jane Zeis
GIVING DAY 2019
$1,000 donated to the annual fund in honor of the following individuals: Brittany Davidson Steven Hurwitz Paige Lea Beth-Heck Leary Amber Molnar
S P E C I A LT Y L I C E N S E PLATE PROGRAM
LET’S RIDE WITH PRIDE! Dear Alumni and friends of TU: Whether you are an employee, student, guardian, alum or loyal friend, it is easier than ever to show your TU spirit through our specialty license plate program. As an Ohio resident, you can purchase or renew your dragon specialty plate directly through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), go online to BMV.ohio.gov or visit your local BMV.
IT IS OUR GOAL TO HAVE AS MANY TU LICENSE PLATES ON THE ROAD AS POSSIBLE! The annual fee to own a specialty plate is an additional $35 of which $25 is returned directly to Tiffin University’s General Scholarship Fund.
IT IS A WIN/WIN! TIFFIN SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP (former President’s Club) Anyone that donates $1,000 or more during the charter membership period (May 1, 2019 – December 31, 2020) will become a Tiffin Society charter member. Throughout the membership period, members will receive the benefit of invitations to exclusive events, direct communication from University leadership, special recognition and unique gifts of appreciation. Your membership supports Tiffin students to achieve dreams and lead successful lives.
If you have questions regarding the Collegiate Plate Program, contact your BMV or email Mikki King at kingmr@tiffin.edu
OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT 155 Miami Street, Tiffin, OH 44883 419.448.3282 . tiffin.edu
Dragons for Life ALUMNI NEWS
Dear Alumni and Friends, AS WE ARE ALL LEARNING TO LIVE A NEW “NORMAL” in this historical time in global history, my hope is this magazine finds you healthy and safe. Although, it was not done in the “traditional” ceremony, I am truly excited to welcome the class of 2020 to the Alumni Association. They are joining a very proud, loyal and global alumni family numbering 12,000 alumni from more than 30 countries around the world.
SEVENTH ANNUAL FORE FUN IN FLORIDA The 7th Annual FORE Fun in Florida took place on February 22 in Lehigh Acres, Florida. Tiffin University’s Office of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations hosted the golf outing scramble which was followed by a successful and well attended social event that included alumni, family and friends.
We could all use a little time together… but we need a little more time. Tiffin University’s Green & Gold Weekend – Homecoming & Family Weekend has had the tradition of welcoming back former students, as well as families and friends to our campus for a weekend of fun, laughter and togetherness. Our University leadership team has worked diligently to ensure the safety of our entire campus community in preparation for the return of our students in the fall semester. It is our top priority to maintain the health and safety of the entire Tiffin University Community. It is with a heavy heart that we have decided to cancel Green & Gold – Homecoming & Family Weekend for the fall of 2020. We are working on several virtual events throughout the fall semester that will keep you engaged with TU. Be sure to check the website, tiffin. edu/alumni and social media. Our relationships with you are meaningful and important and we love spending time with you. As soon as we can get back to connecting with you in the usual ways, we will. We are here for you; we are all in this together. We are a strong Dragon Nation! Please stay safe and healthy.
Vickie Wilkins ‘09/’11 Director of Alumni Relations/TUAA board advisor wilkinsvm@tiffin.edu
Upcoming events, locations and announcements:
TIFFIN.EDU/ADVANCEMENT/ ALUMNI/EVENTS tiffinualumni
Tiffin University Alumni & Friends
DRAGONS FOR LIFE / 21
Tony Serluco (‘74), Joyce Weaver, Paul Weaver (‘74), President Schumacher, Marie Magoch, Frank Magoch (‘71).
SAVE THE DATES GIVING DAY 2020 September 2, 2020, is the day we come together to show how the TU family can unite for Tiffin University. Be a part of the #DragonDonateDay event. We have set aside 24 hours for our great alumni, friends, and family to give back to the programs and departments that make Tiffin University distinctive. Giving Day is a wonderful way to show gratitude to a place that means so much to so many. This is the opportunity to impact current and future Dragons! Help us reach our goal and please advocate for our #DragonDonateDay. https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/Dragon SUMMER TU TRAVEL PROGRAM 2021 Tiffin University alumni, students and friends are invited to travel to Italy and Greece in June 2021. Explore the best sites, culture and food of the Mediterranean. We will visit the Sistine Chapel, Roman Forum, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Parthenon, Acropolis and more. Participants may extend the 10-day trip with a three-day cruise of the Greek islands. To view the full itinerary, pricing and registration, visit efcst.com/2330838ZS or contact Vickie Wilkins at wilkinsvm@tiffin.edu or 419.448.3595.
Alumni Spotlight DRAGON PROUD
MARTIAL ARTS SAVED MY LIFE Dwight Decker Summerville, South Carolina B.S. in Criminal Justice and M.S. in Forensic Psychology Class: 2001 and 2005 Dwight Decker, Tiffin University alumnus ’01 and ’05, said martial arts saved his life. Now, he’s helping youth through his martial arts academy and supporting injured veterans through his nonprofit. “I knew at a young age that I wanted to help others and stick up for them anyway I could,” said Dwight Decker. “One day, I met a police officer; he was helpful, nice and funny. I wanted to be just like him and help others.” Decker pursued his passion at Tiffin University. He was impressed with TU’s highly rated criminal justice program and was offered a football scholarship. “Tiffin University gave me the opportunity to follow my dream,” he said. “TU provides students like me, who might not have had the opportunity to go to college a chance to succeed in life. I knew whatever chance I got; I would not let it go to waste.” Upon graduation, Decker worked in law enforcement, conducting undercover narcotics work and participating in the SWAT team for Tiffin’s police department. While working as a police officer, he felt called to return to school to pursue a master’s degree. Although Decker achieved his goals, he wanted to do something more. Thoughts about the military rustled in his mind for years. He wanted to follow in the footsteps of relatives who had served in the Army and Marines. After speaking to a Navy recruiter, Decker couldn’t let the chance slip away from him. “I said, ‘Get me the papers right now. I’ll sign them.” In 2006, Decker found himself in boot camp training at the age of 29 alongside younger Naval recruits. Because he already completed the police academy and understood the physical and mental challenges associated with training, Decker said he opted to use his seasoned skills to motivate recruits. “I was the first one done who completed PT, so I would go back and be with the stragglers,” Decker said. “I wasn’t going to let my team fail.” He graduated as an Honor Graduate—the only one out of a class of 600 plus graduates. He then entered additional training
for his master-at-arms specialty. He again rose to the top of his class. Later that year, Decker was assigned to the Lowcountry, hand-selected to fill an E-6 billet position at the Naval Weapons Station in Goose Creek. He conducted anti-terrorism force protection with many of his duties top secret in nature. Everything familiar to Decker changed when he medically retired from the Navy in 2011, needing a full hip replacement. “At the time, it was the biggest surgery and life-changing event I have ever faced,” he said. “While they were replacing my hip, the doctor noticed something wrong with my spinal cord, pelvic area and neck.” At just 31, doctors told him he had the bones of an 80-yearold man. Decker developed a bone disorder from medication the Navy prescribed him for years for heartburn. At the time, not every side effect was known for the drug. “I went from high speed to low drag,” Decker said. For months he used a walker then a cane as he recovered from multiple surgeries for hip, pelvic and spinal fractures. “I remember walking into my back surgery with a cane, not being able to feel my legs for almost two years.” Decker also remembers the doctor telling him he was half an inch away from being paralyzed. “It was a humbling experience. This happened all in my 30s with a full life ahead of me. I knew I had to fight for my newborn son and wife. I wasn’t going to give up.” Decker persevered through the pain to start a new, stronger life chapter. He knew he still had a purpose in life, but his mission had slightly changed. Decker continued to serve his country by looking out for other veterans. He started the nonprofit organization Grappling PTSD. The nonprofit raises funds for local charities, helps veterans receive wheelchairs and other needed medical equipment and even covers the cost of their dental and doctor visits. “Even though we get out, the demons are still with us,” Decker said. “Veterans are our responsibility.” Decker also finds fulfillment and therapy in martial arts. He is an instructor at his academy, Black Force Mixed Arts and Fitness Academy, which he started in Summerville in 2010. As an instructor, he views his role as a vital example for youth. “I feel like there are people who need that second, third, fourth and fifth chance at life. I think kids need a little direction to do something that is needed.” Decker also ex20 / ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT 22
perienced a rough childhood, seeking refuge through sports. His love for martial arts started in seventh grade when he was on his school’s wrestling team. “Martial arts saved my life; it took me from a bad spot,” said Decker. Decker learned many lessons throughout his life. He advises others to take advantage of every opportunity they are given. “People say you only live once, but you live every day! Make the absolute best of it. Some people will never have the opportunity you have to go to school, get a degree, graduate, get a job and live a life. Make the best of it now before life passes you by.” Dwight Decker graduated from Tiffin University with a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice in 2001 and a Master of Science in forensic psychology in 2005. He and his wife, Alicia, reside in Summerville, South Carolina, and have two children – a son and daughter. Decker said his children are already learning how to defend themselves. His youngest even has her own pink gi, the traditional martial arts uniform.
LOVE FROM THE SOUTH SIDE Harold Green, III Chicago, Illinois Master of Humanities in Creative Writing Class: 20185 “I just want to give people something real,” said Tiffin University alumnus Harold Green, III. Green influences the world one soul-stirring statement at a time. He is a spoken word performer and found that poetry is the way he’s supposed to spread his message of love and appreciation to the world. Green’s story is one of perseverance. Born in 1985, he grew up in Englewood, a neighborhood in Chicago with a reputation for being rough. Despite the environment, he was surrounded by constant love and support from his family. He lived with his immediate and extended family in a two-flat -- a trademark twofamily apartment unit special to Chicago. “Love changed the way I saw the world,” said Green. He could have easily succumbed to the street, but love saved him. “Every day, no matter what was going on outside, when I walked through those doors, I knew that I was going to be embraced with love.” His upbringing made him realize how strong and positive love can be even in the face of adversity. “Where I come from and where I’ve been has created a very unique outlook,” Green said. “Love is what I always wanted to push and that’s what I always wanted to use as a foundation. I know how prevalent and effective love can be.” Although his family’s love laid the foundation of his art, Green did not come from an artistic family. His passion for poetry began at Christmas during his senior year of high school. Green didn’t have enough money for presents, so he wrote poems for his family. Their positive reaction helped him realize that this was the right path. His interest in poetry shifted from a hobby to a serious pursuit in college. ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT / 23
While attending Grambling State University, Green honed his craft. He performed at open mic nights, homecoming and at other schools. What he liked most was that his productions brought diverse individuals together to enjoy the spoken word. “The way my peers reacted to my poetry, I knew that it was a very real thing. There was no looking back. I had to do this.” It didn’t take long before his art connected with others. During his freshman year, he released an album and received an envelope in the mail. Inside was a picture of a classmate and her newborn son. On the back, his classmate wrote that if it weren’t for Green and his word, she never would have met her child. “She had suicidal thoughts,” he said. “Listening to my album on repeat and listening to the themes of it, she decided against those actions. At that point, I realized that what I was doing was so much bigger than me. Once you realize something is bigger than you, you have to take a step back and realize that continuing that particular thing is a selfless act.” Green realized his potential when he started to get paid to perform his poems. He left Grambling in his junior year to fully focus on his poetry. He went back to school later to finish his undergraduate degree at DePaul University and a master’s degree in humanities and creative writing at Tiffin University in 2018. Reflecting on his own experience, Green emphasized how a positive work ethic and high standards were necessary for success. “Setting expectations for yourself helps you rise, grow and improve,” he said, “so I advise others to do what makes them happy and feel connected. Making an impact is important. Give yourself a purpose and leave your mark on others.” Green has numerous accomplishments. He is the creator of numerous recorded albums, videos, plays and artist platforms, and he has hosted popular open mic events and performed at festivals, rallies and colleges across the country for more than a decade. He is the architect and curator of “Flowers for the Living,” an annual collaboration project with some of the best singers and musicians in Chicago. He is a proud son, brother, husband, father, teacher, coach and mentor. He is a visionary, leader, motivator and an overwhelmingly undeniable human being.
SMALL GRANTS FOR STUDENT SUCCESS As you’re aware, Tiffin University has proudly served students with needs throughout our history. It may be, in part, what makes us most proud of all their accomplishments. Because part of their persistence is overcoming financial challenges, the Small Grants for Student Success was created. This fund has been used as an emergency fund for students so they can find success on their educational journey. During these unsettled times, we ask for your help – for our students. While we don’t know what the future holds, we do know that, together, we can help those we serve rise above. You can make your gift here: tiffin.edu/givingtu.
We’ve Got Class STAYING CONNECTED
1980s
1990s
Vicki Kinney, Class of 1981, Bonita Springs, Florida, works in customer service for Lee Health. She has two children, seven grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.
Mike Wisnor, Class of 1991, Parma Heights, Ohio, is the School President of the Incarnate Wood Academy. Prior, Mike was the Ohio Catholic Federal Credit Union’s Vice President of Marketing and Mission. He also spent 13 years at Elyria Catholic High School as the Director of Admissions and Marketing, Assistant Principal and Associate Principal.
David Strathern, Class of 1986 and 1982, Gilford, New Hampshire, is the Vice President of Sales at Monin Gourmet Flavorings. David has spent more than 30 years in food service sales and sales management at Nestle Inc, RJR Nabisco and Monin Gourmet Flavorings. Nancy Stapp, Class of 1986, Dayton, Ohio, was promoted to Vice President, Finance, at Midmark Corp. She is a certified public accountant and certified management accountant. Deborah Graber, Class of 1989 and 1984, Eastport, Michigan, is the Zoning Administrator for Torch Lake Township. In 2019, she was promoted to Lieutenant in the Fire Department.
David Dennis, Class of 1993, Canal Winchester, Ohio, was selected Coach of the Year on the Dispatch All-Metro boys’ basketball team. He led Harvest Prep to a 23-3 record season and a third consecutive state tournament. David also serves as Athletic Director and Dean of Students at Harvest Prep. Eric Stinehelfer, Class of 1995, Avon, Ohio, is the Branch Executive Director of the French Creek Family YMCA in Avon. He was the CEO of the Geary Family YMCA for 12 years in Fostoria, Ohio, and held leadership roles at YMCA’s in St. Louis, Missouri; Rock River, Illinois; and Tampa, Florida. Eric’s wife, Michelle, is a Physical Therapist Assistant and Certified Athletic Trainer. They have three daughters and one son. Brian Baker, Class of 1998, New Baltimore, Michigan, celebrated 20 years with the Michigan Department of Corrections. Brian is a Parole/Probation Agent.
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Chad Disterdick, Class of 1999, Lexington, Kentucky, is the CEO and President of Bluegrass Truck and Trailer Services, LLC. Charles Burt, Class of 1999, Dayton, Nevada, is a high school teacher for the Lyon County School District. Charles has done extensive hiking in the Sierra Nevada mountains, including Yosemite. He also enjoys taking long-distance motorcycle trips.
Lawrence Smith, MSCJ 1999, Westerville, Ohio, is a Custom Protection Officer for G4S-Chase Contract. He has been married to his wife, Sheila, for 33 years. They have identical twin boys who are going into their senior year of high school. The twins are looking at TU as a possibility of furthering their academics and football careers.
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We welcome your career updates, marriage and birth announcements and, most importantly, your memories and photos. TIFFIN.EDU/TELLUS
2000s Steve Grubbs, Class of 2000, Delaware, Ohio, was named the 2019 Officer of the Year with the Westerville Police Department. Lauren Barnes, Class of 2004, University City, Missouri, is the Senior Director of Defense Logistics Services for Boeing. Bryceson Lawrence, Class of 2006, Marion, Ohio, is the owner and operator of Phase 6 Strength and Performance. He was inducted into the Tiffin Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019. He and his wife, Sarita, have two children.
Lorenzo Guess, MBA 2007, East Lansing, Michigan, was named Master Strength and Conditioning Coach by the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association. He is the Associate Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Michigan State. Lorenzo has worked at Notre Dame, Cincinnati, South Florida, Alcorn State, Kentucky State and Tiffin University. He is currently finishing his doctorate with the United States Sports Academy.
2010s Jason Amich, MBA 2011, Noblesville, Indiana, is a Health Scientist, Functional Medicine Consultant for Integrative Medicine Laser and Aesthetics. He completed his doctorate in 2019. Jason said TU gave him the courage he needed to pursue another challenging academic degree.
Dr. Destiny (Fletcher) Perry, MSCJ 2008, Fresno, Texas, is the CEO/Christian Counselor at Divine Destiny Counseling with Intent. She is married to Charles Perry. Dr. Irish Spencer, MH 2009, Greensboro, North Carolina, has been named Assistant Vice Chancellor for Corporate and Foundation Relations at Fayetteville State University.
Melissa (Jones) Tiell, Class of 2011, Tiffin, Ohio, is the Controller for the United Way of Hancock County. She is married to Kevin Tiell, who is a Controls Engineer with Custom Glass Solutions, LLC. They have two children, Levi and Roxanne.
Katie (Luker) Snare, Class of 2009, Harrison, Tennessee, and her husband Matt welcomed their daughter Charlize “Charlie” on May 7. They also have two sons, Skyler (5) and Evan (2).
Eny Maristela (Weber) Morasko, MBA 2012, Galion, Ohio, married Jerome Morasko in 2017. They have a daughter.
James Riddick, MSCJ 2006 and MBA 2017, Perdido, Alabama, is an area investigator for the Alabama Power Company. Steven McLean, MSCJ 2006, Baldwin Park, California, was appointed as Chief of Police for Baldwin Park. He began as an officer at the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department and served as Chief of Police in the city of Santa Paula for seven years. Steven is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy. Lisa Deffenbaugh Nguyen, MSCJ 2007, Vienna, Virginia, is the Executive Director for the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA). She has worked with APNA since 2007, most recently serving as APNA Associate Executive Director, Operations.
Nikki Lynn Morrell, MH 2009, Longwood, Florida, is the English Department Manager of Liberal Studies at Full Sail University.
Matthew Taylor, Class of 2012, Bedford, Ohio, was promoted to Regional Clinical Supervisor at Pinnacle Treatment Centers. He enjoys working with people who struggle with addiction, as well as overseeing the counseling departments at all 13 clinics in Ohio. Debra Meadows, Class of 2013, Seattle, Washington, is a Toxicology Forensic Scientist for the Washington State Patrol.
WE’VE GOT CLASS / 25
2010s
(continued)
Kyle Nall, Class of 2013, Frankfort, Kentucky, was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, serving as the Executive Director of the Office of Administrative Services. Kyle has worked in many roles, including telecommunicator, trooper, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, academy commander and post commander. He is also a criminal justice instructor and serves on the Criminal Justice Advisory Board for Bluegrass Community and Technical College. He is currently enrolled at Indiana Tech and will graduate with a Master of Science in December of 2020. Stephanie Kelly, Class of 2013, Curtice, Ohio, and her husband welcomed their son, Connor, on October 25, 2019. Stephanie is the Branch Manager at Enterprise Rent a Car. Tim Roop, MSCJ 2013, Jamestown, Ohio, retired from the Xenia Police Division. During his career in Xenia, Roop served as a BAC operator, school resource officer and as a member of the Crash Response Team. In 2013, he received the Life Saving Commendation for his response and assistance to a call resulting in another life saved. Tim was the recipient of the Neighborhood Beautification Award in 2003 for the highest level of activity to clean up his assigned district. In 1997, he received the Silver Shield Award, which recognized him for the highest level of activity. Robert Ware, MSCJ 2014, Worthington, Ohio, was appointed as Chief of Police in Worthington. He joins their department with 25 years of experience in the criminal justice field. Previously, Robert served eight years as the chief in Portsmouth. He also serves in the U.S. Navy Reserves.
Sarah (Gowan) Campbell, Class of 2014, Parma, Ohio, married Jason Campbell.
Bill McCague, Class of 2016, Lewis Center, Ohio, recently earned a Master of Business Administration from Franklin University. He is an Environment, Health and Safety Manager at Abrasive Technology. Deker Kneeskern, Class of 2016, Tiffin, Ohio, Deputy of Seneca County Sheriff ’s office, is a Student Resource Officer for the Hopewell-Loudon Local School District.
Toni (Reed) Wise, MBA 2014 and Class of 2012, Commercial Point, Ohio, is the owner of Reed’s Contracting, LLC. Bailey Allen, Class of 2015, Springfield, Ohio, is a Serve Coordinator at Madison Champaign Educational Service Center. Carly (Schwartz) Trautwein, Class of 2015, Fremont, Ohio, is the Deputy Auditor for Sandusky County Auditor’s Office. She is married to Hunter Trautwein.
Essence Trenace Bell, Class of 2016, Omaha, Nebraska, was recently engaged. Essence is a starter on the Mid-America All Stars Rugby team.
Jarron Theis, Class of 2015, Republic, Ohio, will marry Kylie Mathias on August 22, 2020. Jarron is a probation officer and Kylie is a physical therapist.
Allison Kesler, Class of 2017, Upper Sandusky, Ohio, finished her second year of law school. She is involved in mock trial teams for the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and the American Association of Justice. Allison accepted the position of Chief Justice of the ONU Moot Court team for the 2020-21 school year. She will work with the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office during the summer.
Tanisha Henson, MSCJ 2015, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, graduated from Widener Commonwealth Law School with a Juris Doctor in May. She received a Pro Bono Distinction Award at the virtual graduation. Tanisha plans to move to Arizona and take the Bar Exam. Before law school, she was a Certified Medicolegal Death Investigator and worked in Virginia and Florida. She is an active member of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and was included in a National Association of Medical Examiners Position Paper.
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Antonio Pipkin, Class of 2017, Edmonton, Canada, signed a one-year contract with the Edmonton Eskimos as the quarterback. Antonio has spent the past three seasons in the Canadian Football League as a member of the Montreal Alouettes. Marcus Beaurem II, MBA 2018 and Class of 2015, Miamisburg, Ohio, is a Certified Personal Trainer at Burn Boot Camp. He is also a high school football coach.
Nicole Fretz, Class of 2018, Tiffin, Ohio, announced her engagement to Daniel Johnston Jr. They will be married on Oct. 24. Nicole works at Seneca County Probate Court, and Daniel works at Seneca County Sheriff ’s Department. Rene Keller, MH 2018, Lehigh Acres, Florida, is an English and Literature Instructor at Keiser University.
Sarah Herb, Class of 2018, Saint Simons Island, Georgia, works in Client Services at Lagardére Sports. Zane Lawrence, MBA 2018 and Class of 2016, Slinger, Wisconsin, was inducted into the Fairfield Union Sports Hall of Fame. Zane was Most Valuable Fairfield Union Field Athlete three times and Most Valuable Track and Field Athlete twice. He was an Indoor and Outdoor State Qualifier and was All-Ohio seventh place in 2012. Zane was also a member of the Tiffin University track team that won the First National Championship in All-Sports.
Dylan Foos, Class of 2019, Burgoon, Ohio, received the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) 2019 Volunteer of the Year Award. This award recognizes a member who has made a significant difference to their chapter, the association or the information security community through dedicated and selfless service to ISSA. Dylan was awarded for his creation and involvement of the Northwest Ohio ISSA chapter in Toledo, Ohio. The ISSA is a not-for-profit, international organization of information security professionals and practitioners. Dylan is a Senior Security Consulting Analyst at Accenture Security. Kevin Moran, MS 2019, Pemberville, Ohio, a local writer and mental health professional, released his first children’s book series, “Randy and Friends.” Ryan Schroerlucke, MSCJ 2019, St. Clair Shores, Michigan, was appointed to Michigan’s new Suicide Prevention Commission. He is a detective with the Grosse Pointe Woods Department of Public Safety and is a member of the National Council for Behavioral Health. He is currently pursuing his doctorate in forensic psychology.
Stephanie Winemiller, MS 2019 and Class of 2011, Fresno, California, is a Defense Attorney for the Fresno County Public Defender. In 2015, Stephanie graduated with a Juris Doctor from Thomas Jefferson School of Law and has been licensed to practice law in California since 2016. She is currently working toward a Doctorate of Psychology at California Southern University. Stephanie plans to become a licensed clinical psychologist upon completion of her doctorate. STAFF George W. Kidd Jr., TU president emeritus and professor emeritus, Tiffin, Ohio, retired as Vice Chairman and Director of Gillmor Financial Services Inc. and the Old Fort Banking Co. in March after more than 30 years as a bank director. He most recently served on the bank’s audit, compliance and technology committees and served as chairman of the bank’s executive and compensation committees. George served more than 20 years at TU before being elected to the Old Fort Bank Co. board of directors in 1989. He has a bachelor’s degree in finance and a master’s degree in business administration from Drexel University as well as a master’s degree in economic history from the University of Pennsylvania. He also received a certificate from the Institution of Educational Management at Harvard University. Honorariums include Baker College, Indiana Institute of Technology, University of Bucharest and Tiffin University.
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IN MEMORIAM Harold Shultz, Class of 1938, Tiffin, Ohio, passed away in April. He was an accountant and office manager at Mohawk Motor from 1939 to 1970 and treasurer of Seneca Sheet Metal from 1970 to 1992. He lived to be 102 years old. Carol Cheney, Class of 1945, Bluffton, Ohio, passed away in February. She was a farm wife to Willis Cheney. Carol worked at the Lima Locomotive Works in Lima and for the United Mutual Insurance Company of Hancock County. Teresa (DeVanna) Woodward, Class of 1974, Findlay, Ohio, passed away in May of 2019. She was President of the Kappa Delta Kappa sorority from 1973 to 1974. For 10 years, Teresa sold Home Interiors and retired in 2013, after 19 years of service in the offices at Kohls Distribution Center.
Martha A. Ziegler, Class of 1983, Tiffin, Ohio, passed away in January. Martha graduated with a Bachelor of Commercial Science and was a member of Alpha Iota Sorority. She continued in the alumnae chapter serving as the regional counselor for the Ohio chapters. Martha worked for the United States Glass Company (Tiffin Glass Co.) for 25 years and as the office manager at Jeffrey Jewelry for 21 years. Andrew Joseph “Drew” Keller, MSCJ 2018, Uhrichsville, Ohio, passed away in March. He was a K-9 officer at Dennison Police Department.
IMPORTANT TIFFIN UNIVERSITY DIRECTORY PROJECT UNDERWAY Staying connected to our alumni is very important to us. Tiffin University launched an alumni data verification project in late-April. To make this a successful project, we are partnering with a nationally recognized publishing firm, Publishing Concepts (PCI), to help us reach out to alumni near and far. You should have received communication from Publishing Concepts, letting you know how to participate in the project and update your educational, professional and contact information. The last Tiffin University alumni directory was published over five years ago, and we look forward to completing this project by April 2021. We understand security and privacy are concerns, but please know that PCI is a trusted partner of Tiffin University. Up-to-date information is vital for us to connect alumni with former classmates and friends, and we want to be sure that you receive the latest news and invitations to our events. 28 / IN MEMORIAM
Bringing the Fire DRAGON ATHLETICS
GRAHAM RYAN – YOU WILL BE MISSED! By Shane O’Donnell Assistant Athletic Director/Sports Information TIFFIN UNIVERSITY LOST one of its most cherished supporters on May 19, when Graham Ryan passed away. Ryan was a fixture at TU athletic events, both as a fan and a manager for nearly 50 years. Since 1992, when I started working in TU’s Athletic Department, I have seen much change. Buildings, coaches, students, teams … but one thing I always could count on was seeing Graham Ryan at games. He would always saunter over to Graham Ryan was a loyal supporter of Tiffin University the scorer’s table and talk about the for nearly 50 years. teams. He would always want the latest news and especially, the upcoming schedule for the weekend so he could make sure to be there. He was always one of the first persons through my office door in the summer to get season passes. He wanted the game schedule cards as soon as they were in. He always wanted to know the date of the Hall of Fame inductions so he could make sure to be there and say hello to all the former coaches and athletes. He was inducted to the Tiffin University Athletic Hall of Fame as an Honorary member in 2017, a night that no one in attendance will ever forget. At the time of his induction, Ryan told his story. His contributions and feelings were on display for all to see. He first began assisting with Dragons athletics in 1971, working as equipment manager for Hall of Fame Coach George Janson and the men’s basketball team. It was the start of a 46-year relationship with the university and specifically with athletics that is unmatched in the school’s history. After serving for 10 years as equipment manager for the men’s basketball team, Ryan continued to support TU athletics as a devoted fan. In 1985 another opportunity presented itself. “I read an ad in the newspaper that said TU was starting football,” Ryan recalled.
BRINGING THE FIRE / 29
“I knew (Head Coach) Buzz Kirkhart when he had coached at Tiffin Calvert, so I talked to him about being an equipment manager for the football team. I worked with them in 1985 and 1986, traveling with them and taking care of their equipment needs.” Following that, Ryan moved to the Tiffin University Maintenance Department, working there from 1986 - 2016, spending many of those hours working athletic events. He actively worked with various athletic teams in game-day setup operations, all the while remaining a recognized fixture at Tiffin University athletic events, usually leading the crowd in supporting the Dragons. “I was a big fan of football and men’s basketball, along with volleyball,” said Ryan. “Everyone seemed to like me when I cheered at the game because I showed them respect and treated them well. I tried to always pick a player each year and really support them.” “I also enjoyed being around the basketball teams we had in the 1970s. We had two teams that won National Championships in 1971 and 1973 and another team that won the conference in 1976. I really enjoyed being a part of those football and basketball teams. It is nice to know that I did my part to help them and make them successful.” Few fans have watched Tiffin University’s transformation for as long as Graham Ryan. The term Dragon for Life is often used to describe a long time devoted Dragons fan. For Graham Ryan, a new term should be coined. Dragon for Eternity.
DRAGONS FINISH THIRD IN GMAC PRESIDENT’S CUP Tiffin had another very successful year as a member of the Great Midwest Athletic Conference during the 2019-20 seasons, finishing third out of 13 teams in the annual President’s Cup rankings. The standings reflect the top performances by GMAC schools by sport throughout the 2019-20 fall and winter seasons. The third-place finish is especially noteworthy, as Tiffin was not able to count points from the spring season, traditionally one of their strongest seasons. Due to COVID-19, spring seasons were not completed and therefore not included. Findlay won the cup for the second year in a row after just edging out the Dragon last year. It was a close race for first again, with the Oilers scoring 95.5 points and Walsh finishing second with 95 points. Tiffin recorded 86 points, with Cedarville and Hillsdale (82.5 points apiece) rounding out the top five. Tiffin had three programs earn the highest points possible for their sport - football won the GMAC regular-season title, men’s wrestling won the GMAC Duals, and men’s track and field took the GMAC Indoor title. Other high-achieving performances included men’s soccer (fourth-place in regular-season, won the GMAC tournament), volleyball (second in regular-season, tournament runner-up) and women’s track and field (second at indoor championships). From the fall and winter seasons, 79 Dragons earned AllConference honors and Tiffin received 64 GMAC Athlete of the Week awards. Five programs qualified for NCAA postseason play with football and men’s soccer both reaching in the fall, followed by men’s and women’s indoor track & field and men’s wrestling qualifying in the winter.
HURLES RECEIVES AVCA 30 UNDER 30 HONOR The American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) announced its 2020 Thirty Under 30 Award recipients on a Monday morning and Tiffin’s Shauna Hurles was selected for the honor. Of the 30 award winners, Hurles was one of just two from the NCAA Division II ranks. In Shauna Hurles was a addition, she was one of just three recipient of the AVCA 30 Under 30 Award given to some of head coaches across Divisions I the best young coaches in the and II to receive the prestigious nation. honor. The award was created in 2009 to honor up-and-coming coaching talent at all levels of the sport. To qualify for the award, nominees had to be younger than 30 years old in 2019. “I’m honored to receive this award,” said Hurles. “It’s an even bigger pleasure earning this award while at Tiffin University with my staff and student-athletes. The work I have put in, as well as my staff and athletes, have put our program on the right track. I hope to move forward to become a better coach and help my student-athletes reach their highest potential.” In her three seasons at the helm of Tiffin volleyball, Hurles has compiled an overall record of 60-37 (.619). ATHLETIC TEAMS RAISE ACADEMIC BAR IN SPRING 2020 Tiffin University’s athletic teams continued to excel in the spring 2020 semester despite the sudden change of dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. Overall the student-athletes registered a 3.12 GPA, with nearly 500 of the 716 student-athletes posting a 3.00 or higher GPA. A total of 18 of Tiffin’s 24 teams registered a 3.00 or higher mark. Women’s basketball edged out men’s golf with a 3.81 GPA, as the golfers finished with a 3.80 mark. Women’s golf was at 3.78, women’s volleyball was at 3.61, and women’s soccer (3.56) and softball (3.51) also joined the elite teams above a 3.50 GPA.
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Endowed Scholarships LEAVE A LEGACY—CONSIDER AN ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP! The gift of an endowed scholarship provides Tiffin University with a permanent asset from which students can receive support. Just like a savings account, endowment funds generate income from the principle investment. A solid foundation is created through endowed scholarships. A foundation that will build lasting financial strength and academic quality. Once in place, these scholarships provide permanent support for TU students. You can achieve an endowed scholarship simply through a current gift or with a bequest from your estate. Contact Mitch Blonde, VP for Insitutional Advancement and Public Affairs at 419.448.3584 or email: blondemp@tiffin.edu
Investing in students is the best investment you will ever make!
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