Challenge Magazine - Volume 39, Issue 2

CHALLENGE MAGAZINE VOLUME 39, ISSUE 2

ALUMNI & FRIENDS MAGAZINE OF TIFFIN UNIVERSITY

TRANSLATED "SINE AUDACIA NULLUM PRAEMIUM" MEANS "WITHOUT RISK, THERE IS NO GAIN," TU'S MOTTO SINCE 1888.

CHALLENGE MAGAZINE TIFFIN UNIVERSITY IS A PLACE WHERE WE CHALLENGE OUR STUDENTS TO BECOME ALL THEY ARE CAPABLE OF BECOMING.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4

President's Message

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Guiding Principles

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Pushing the Envelope Dr. Terry Sullivan and Dr. Thomas Marben on the School of Business Through the Years

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Dragon Strong Dr. Bonnie Tiell’s Story as an Educator, Industry Expert and Survivor

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Campus Scene

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Dr. Joyce Hall-Yates on TU's Trajectory

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A Veteran VP Wendy Miller on Her Many Tasks, Texas and TU

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Making IT More Inclusive Chaderick Johnson’s Dragon Story

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Charity Begins at Home A Donor Spotlight Story

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Rockin' Retirees Three Pillars of TU Begin New Journeys

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Then Versus Now Dr. John Millar and Mr. William Hertzer on TU Through the Years

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Lifting Others Up Lauren Barnes on Success, Philanthropy and Her Alma Mater

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International Achievements A Look at TU’s Campus in Bucharest, Romania Through the Years

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A Ticket to Success Hayley Coppola on the Business of Entertainment and a TU Education

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Hometown Ties Julie Adkins’ Dragon Story

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Academic Ascensions Tiffin University Appoints Five Deans

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A Little Extra Pomp and Circumstance TU Celebrates its 135th Commencement

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Donor Honor Roll

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Class Scene

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Sports Scene

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A Finance Fun Fact TU has a Top-Notch Accounting Program

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Alumni Scene

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Commemorative Pint Glass

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Dragons for Life / Dragon Legacy Program

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Share Your Dragon Pride

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TU Welcomes Three New Board of Trustee Members

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Go Big For Giving Day

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Summit to Success Speakers

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Homecoming on the Horizon

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Brotherly Bonds Phi Theta Pi's National Convention

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Impact Shirt Revealed Tiffin University Releases Third Annual Impact Shirt

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First, Second and Third Time's the Charm

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LIFE@TU

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Congratulations 2023 TU Grads

PUBLISHED BY The Office of Institutional Advancement Mitchell P. Blonde, CFRE Vice President for Institutional Advancement & Public Affairs / Chief Advancement Officer

CONTRIBUTORS Shane O’Donnell, Sports Information Director Debby Roszman, Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications Vickie Wilkins, Director of Alumni Relations

WRITER + EDITOR Matthew Early, Public Relations Writer

Send news to: tiffin.edu/tellus

PHOTOGRAPHER Rebecca Kielbasa, Digital Content Specialist DESIGN Judy Reynolds, Graphic Designer

Change of address: Office of Alumni Relations 419.448.3595 or wilkinsvm@tiffin.edu

Challenge Magazine welcomes comments and suggestions. Please email earlymw@tiffin.edu.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Greetings! It is always a joy and privilege to update the community on any new and exciting developments.

Today, I am especially excited as I write this, since we have incredible news to share.

This fall, we are celebrating a momentous occasion in our rich history - the 135th anniversary of Tiffin University.

As such, I sincerely hope you will remain engaged during this time. After all, our collective story is composed of your many significant individual accomplishments. Your success is TU's success, and we would love to hear of the ways in which you have gone forth to transform the lives of others, as we have hopefully transformed yours.

Together, you represent a pivotal chapter in our book, one over a century in the making.

This is precisely why I am happy to report that this edition of Challenge Magazine focuses on the School of Business - our institution's oldest academic entity. Nothing could be more appropriate to honor this important milestone, as the School of Business is a living link to the days of our very founding when we were known as Tiffin Business University. As you read the following articles, take a moment to think about all that has been accomplished in these 135 years, or even since you've become a student, employee, retiree, alumnus or friend.

Though Tiffin University has undergone many significant changes in its history, there has been one constant through it all. We have remained steadfast in our commitment to providing students with an education that challenges conventional wisdom, as our tagline states - a principle I don't foresee changing any time soon. Please consider joining us as we celebrate our birthday this fall, and enjoy reading all about what is new and noteworthy, especially where the School of Business is concerned.

Enjoy!

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.

PUSHING THE ENVELOPE

DR. TERRY SULLIVAN AND DR. THOMAS MARBEN ON THE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS THROUGH THE YEARS Since its founding, Tiffin University has prided itself on being a trailblazer – always testing out what is new and unconventional in the world of higher education. As any Dragon Family member would know, this long-standing practice was put in place to give students everything needed for success in an everchanging job market. TU's unique approach focuses on honoring the tried and true methods of conventional learning while supplementing them with real-world experiences and cutting-edge technologies, paired with an evolving curriculum.

As the institution’s oldest academic entity, the School of Business was the first to adopt this practice of outside-the-box instruction. With an impressive legacy to uphold, today's business faculty keep a watchful eye over the job market and are quick to push for adding new programs to ensure TU graduates keep a competitive edge as their careers take off.

DR. TERRY SULLIVAN

"This is exactly how the Drone Academy and Esports Arena came to be," said Dr. Terry Sullivan, Vice Provost for Academics, Campus Programs. "As the online gaming space expands into professional leagues and unmanned aerial system technology is utilized in more industries, we know students will benefit from us offering such things now and well into the future.”

“The Ph.D. program is easily the initiative of which I am the most proud,” agreed Dr. Sullivan. “Being able to say we have this option for advanced study changes the academic profile of the entire institution for the better. When we first pitched this idea, people were doubtful, as they had seen similar initiatives fail at other small universities. This speaks not only to the quality of our faculty and instruction, but to our overall attitude of perseverance in the face of skepticism. In my opinion, this is a large part of what differentiates us from other schools – our history of trying new things for the sake of our students’ success. Though I’ve moved toward the administrative side of things and away from teaching in recent years, I still see our instructors challenging the status quo every day.”

Dr. Marben, who still actively teaches within the School of Business in addition to his role as Dean, couldn’t agree more.

He also believes that TU’s unorthodox hiring practice is another way it stands out from the pack, so to speak.

"I tell prospective students and their families all the time that our professors have practical experience in their fields," said Dr. Marben. "Using myself as an example – I spent many years working as an accountant for a private business before turning to teaching. I know what actually goes on in meeting and board One of the more recent and most DR. THOMAS MARBEN rooms and can relay this knowledge impressive accomplishments of the School to my students. Many schools employ would be its instatement of a Doctor of instructors who have spent the entirety Philosophy program in global leadership of their careers in academia, which isn't and change. In May of 2022, members a bad thing by any means. That said, I do think our eagerness of its inaugural cohort received their degrees and a special to hire industry professionals is in the best interest of our recognition at the commencement ceremony. students. The classroom itself can only do so much to prepare them for the tough decisions they'll need to make once they “Not too many schools of our size have been able to enter their careers." successfully offer a doctoral program, let alone one endorsed by national accreditation agencies,” said Dr. Thomas Marben, According to both Dr. Sullivan and Dr. Marben, The School of Assistant Professor of Accounting and Dean of the School Business has always been one to march to the beat of its own of Business. “The positive feedback we’ve received, not only drum, as the saying goes. from our students and graduates, but from assessment committees has been humbling and reassuring. It has “Tiffin University has always focused its efforts on making absolutely reaffirmed my belief that our business faculty the right decisions for Tiffin University,” said Dr. Sullivan. possess the technical expertise to teach at such a high level.”

DRAGONPUSHING THE ENVELOPE / 6

“Our practices of innovation, entrepreneurship and risktaking have never been the norm for other schools, so taking pages from their books would be like using the manual for a dishwasher to try and fix a car. We’re simply working toward different goals.”

“It’s worked very well for us – teaching based on what hiring bodies want in their employees,” concurred Dr. Marben. “I recently had a former student of mine perform quite well on his certified managerial accountant licensure exam. When he visited campus and shared the good news, he mentioned he felt especially confident going in because we started preparing him and our other students early on through the School’s coursework.”

Dr. Marben continued the sentiment, speaking to the great importance of the School’s internship program, requiring all undergraduate students to complete a semester-long stint with a local business or professional entity.

“It’s just crucial,” he began. “Practicing interviewing and soft interpersonal skills – the things a classroom can’t facilitate – there’s no better way than just jumping in headfirst. It really does work out for them, too. Since I started in 2017, a local manufacturing company has hired eight of our graduates, all of whom have interned at the same place through the required course. Sometimes, they’ve even promised our students jobs before they graduate, because they not only have such faith in our curriculum, but they really develop a connection during those face-to-face interactions.”

"There’s no better way for our students to get a sense of an industry’s practices and expectations than by immersing themselves in the culture,” agreed Dr. Sullivan. “That’s just another way we try to give our students the most practical education possible and one of many reasons our graduates consistently stand out amid large applicant pools. Once you fall behind the times, it’s hard to catch up, whereas if you, as an entity, work to stay on the cutting edge of things, it’s much easier and to your benefit. If you're going to survive as an institution, you need to be willing to venture into new arenas and push the envelope.”

SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AFFILIATED ENDEAVORS DRONE ACADEMY

In March of 2022, Tiffin University launched a new program that has since become a renowned entity in the State of Ohio and beyond. The Drone Academy was founded as a response to the ever-growing usage of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) technology in multiple industries and fields, such as law enforcement, agriculture, transportation and others. The Academy features academic classes, training seminars, community outreach programs, certification opportunities and recreational activities.

Within its first year, the Drone Academy was even awarded several merit-based grants and endowments, including one from the State Transportation Innovation Council, a sub-committee of the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Though its academic programs are now overseen by the School of Science, Technology and Health, the Drone Academy used to host classes with the School of Business, as the School played a large part in its creation. Today, the Academy, an independent University entity, frequently collaborates with other academic and cocurricular bodies, as UAS technology is currently being utilized in the areas of real-estate development, agriculture, the transportation industry, digital media, law enforcement efforts and many others.

ESPORTS FACILITY

Since 2017, the Tiffin University esports program has been challenging the public’s perception about what it means to be both a student-athlete, as well as a gamer. What was once considered to be nothing more than a hobby has grown into a multi-million dollar industry, and those seeking careers in electronic athletics, also known as esports, can find rewarding and lucrative career opportunities – whether it be as professional gamers, coaches, event coordinators or marketing experts.

Tiffin University joined the electronic athletics craze six years ago.

Due to rising levels of interest from the student body, plans for getting a program off the ground were fast-tracked. Soon after, the University acquired some nearby land and constructed a stand-alone, 4,000 square-foot arena – now one of the largest collegiate gaming spaces in the nation.

This commitment to pushing the envelope is nothing new for the Tiffin Dragons. In fact, it's written into the University's basic principles.

TU's formal mission is to "educate students by linking knowledge to professional practice."

The University’s tagline is "Challenge Conventional Wisdom."

Last but not least, TU’s motto, "Sine Audacia Nullum Praemium," translates to "Without risk, there is no gain."

7 / PUSHING THE ENVELOPE

DRAGON STRONG

DR. BONNIE TIELL’S STORY AS AN EDUCATOR, INDUSTRY EXPERT AND SURVIVOR There are a few select people whose names and faces have become essential to the very image and brand of the University.

The institution’s most friendly and outgoing ambassadors are a large part of what gives TU that special something, which sets it apart from other schools. It says something when a university's employees love their careers so much, they do everything in their power to further its mission. That’s why TU loves celebrating community members who live and breathe green and gold. Dr. Bonnie Tiell is one such person who truly embodies the phrase "Dragon for Life."

“The mantra ‘be productive every day’ has always been my go-to phrase,” Dr. Tiell offered. “I firmly believe that successful people are the doers and givers of this world who wake up each morning with a mindset of productivity and go to bed thankful for the opportunity to live another day. I certainly try to exemplify this attitude, but just as much, wherever I travel and whatever I do professionally, I am proud to be an ambassador for TU. It is important that whether I am in Bangkok, Budapest or Bahrain, people associate Tiffin University with the great small institutions in the U.S. and know of its growing international presence.”

activity as work. Writing a textbook is a joy, for example. In addition to writing, teaching, speaking, traveling the world and getting my daily exercise fix, I also love creating new experiential opportunities for my students. I find that by diversifying my energy, I never feel in a rut.”

Though Dr. Tiell has always preferred to keep her schedule full, in the fall of 2021 an unfortunate turn of events forced her to slow down for a while.

“

“Dr. Tiell is a living embodiment of TU’s core principles. Her outside-thebox thinking, with regard to creating experiential learning opportunities for her students and the community, is a testament to her great care for those around her. She recognizes the value of classroom and field learning working in tandem. Her dedication to practicing and encouraging lifelong learning, as well as her hands-on educational lessons is precisely why she was given the 2017 Provost’s Award. I am proud to call her a colleague and look forward to seeing how she will further enrich our University’s culture for years to come.”

“When I first learned I had breast cancer, my only thought was, ‘how quickly can I beat this?’ Even though I had a rare form that spread fairly quickly, the thought of not teaching never crossed my mind, even though I was offered the choice. I even fought to keep an overload course, because I didn’t think it was fair that cancer could take away an opportunity I thought I could handle.”

In a true-to-her fashion, Dr. Tiell handled it and then some. With the help of her graduate teaching assistant and the flexibility of virtual learning, she was able to endure over 20 rounds of chemotherapy, six weeks of daily radiation and two major surgeries while also finishing the semester and year with flying colors. Now cancer-free, she’s back to her usual routine and is grateful to the Dragon family for helping her through the battle.

Clearly, that sense of ambition has afforded Dr. Tiell no small amount of recognition both in relation to and separate from her employer. During her 35-year tenure, she has served as the – Dr. Peter J. Holbrook, Provost and NCAA Faculty Athletic Representative, Chief Academic Officer “If anyone ever wants to know what Dean of Graduate Studies and Master of kind of culture exists at TU, what being Business Administration Program Chair. a member of the community is like, She has also taught in the Executive MBA here’s an example. The day I got home from my first eightprogram in Bucharest, Romania. Prior to her faculty appointment, hour chemotherapy treatment, a ready-bake pizza, flowers and she served as a Senior Woman Administrator and an Assistant an insane number of care packages from TU faculty and staff Athletic Director. She is also a member of the TU Hall of Fame for greeted my husband and me. Before I knew it, sport teams and her extensive coaching accolades. Currently, she teaches with the individuals at TU had organized five cancer-related fundraisers School of Business as a Professor of Sport Management. and a meal train. For over a year after my diagnosis, I was showered with cards and gifts from alums, friends, colleagues Dr. Tiell’s publications, recognitions and awards are too around the world and a whole bunch of students. In addition numerous to name in full. Suffice to say she has developed the to my husband, two daughters and a close circle of friends, it’s well-earned reputation of being a go-getter, always advocating no secret that TU was one of the main reasons I was able to not only for her own career’s development, but for the success of get through some of the lowest points in my cancer battle. On her students as well. days when it was a struggle to get out of bed, I replayed a video message from the TU football team and read old texts over and “Advancing my career was always a byproduct of whatever I over. There are no words to fully express how humbled and did – not necessarily a goal,” she explained. “I habitually chase thankful I am to be a part of TU and to have felt the collective interesting opportunities for myself and for my students. That caring presence of the entire University.” habit has fueled my passion to stay productive and is also the secret to how I avoid burnout, since I don’t view a lot of my DRAGON STRONG / 8

BIOGRAPHY

Bonnie Tiell, who earned her Doctor of Education degree in sports management from the United States Sports Academy, is a Professor of Sport Management at Tiffin University. Tiell is the founder and co-director of the Academic Experience with Olympians – a program through Tiffin University that offers students from around the world the opportunity for onsite study of the organization, supervision and management of international sport venues and elite competition in an Olympic host city. She is also co-founder of a humanitarian program for underprivileged youth in Olympic host cities with two-time Olympian Dr. Francis Dove-Edwin, who serves as Co-Director.

Tiell received Tiffin University’s Provost Award in 2017, the highest recognition for faculty at the institution. In 2016, the Cleveland Chapter of Women in Sports and Events recognized her as Woman of the Year in Sports. In the same year, it was the second time she was the recipient of the Region Four Excellence in Teaching Award from the Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs. Tiell also received the Donahue Service Award in 2013 from the NCAA II Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletics Conference.

In her spare time, Dr. Tiell loves going on weekly golf outings with other members of the Tiffin community including several former TU faculty, members and employees.

9 / DRAGON STRONG

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DRAGON PREP SUMMER BRIDGE PROGRAM WINS IMLS FUNDING

From August 1 to August 16, Tiffin University will host the Dragon Prep Summer Bridge Program, designed for already-admitted incoming first-year students who may require academic coaching to succeed at the college level.

The curriculum provides workshops, classes and activities that teach about campus technology, services and basic postsecondary academic skills such as math, reading and writing. Dragon Prep includes lodging, food and other accommodations – and is free to all eligible TU students.

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FRIENDS AND FAMILY OFFERED SPECIAL TICKET PACKAGE FOR CLEVELAND GUARDIANS GAME

Tiffin University offered special ticket and apparel packages for the Cleveland Guardians home game on July 7, when TU's a cappella group Up in the Air performed the national anthem. The discount packages were for TU’s employees, alumni and friends. The Guardians played the Kansas City Royals. Each package offered one ticket to the game at multiple seating-based price point options.

The first 200 packages sold also received an exclusive gray diamond C baseball cap with the Tiffin Dragon logo.

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BUSINESS STUDENTS SCORED ABOVE NATIONAL AVERAGE ON PEREGRINE EXAM

Tiffin University’s undergraduate and graduate students with the School of Business have collectively scored above the national average on the Major Field Test, administered

by Peregrine Academic Services. The Major Field Test assesses business students in several core competency areas, ranging from accounting, management, marketing, finance, leadership, economics and more. The business program’s average is then compared with those of other institutions affiliated with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Universities allied with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) also have their scores considered.

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LONNY ALLEN LEAVES A LEGACY AFTER 32 YEARS OF SERVICE

After many years of dedicated service, Allen leaves behind a model athletic division that will live on. He served as the Athletic Director since 2008, after serving as Assistant Athletic Director, Head Baseball Coach and Assistant Baseball Coach for the Dragons. Allen was named the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) Athletics Director of the Year in 2021, one of just four Division II athletic directors to receive the distinction.

He also served on the NCAA D2 Football Committee, the NACDA D2 Athletic Directors Association (ADA) Board and the D2 Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Connection Connector.

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DRONE ACADEMY HOSTED COMMUNITY FLY DAY

The Tiffin University Drone Academy sponsored a Drone Community Fly Day on June 3 at Hedges-Boyer Park.

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Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) technology safely for recreational use. Fly-demonstrations from several local organizations also took place, by the Tiffin University Drone Academy and the Seneca County Drone Team, a collaboration between the Tiffin and Fostoria Police Departments and the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office.

Agricultural drone demonstrations made by Avon UAS and Nineteenth UAS Precision were also featured.

[ 6 ] TIFFIN UNIVERSITY NAMED TOP

SCHOOL AMONG OHIO’S ONLINE PROGRAMS

OnlineU, a leading higher education statistical researcher and publisher, placed Tiffin University among the top five Ohio colleges for online learning in 2023. Out of over 100 Ohio-based schools considered, TU ranked number four.

The University’s standing was determined by OnlineU’s Salary Score ranking system, which calculates the overall value of a school’s degree program by comparing the average early-career salary for its graduates with that of other schools.

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TU STUDENTS AND ALUMNUS PRESENT AT TOXICOLOGY RESEARCH CONFERENCE

In April, TU undergraduate students Emma Sas, Sarah Jackson and Ashley Rathbun presented at the Midwest Association of Toxicology and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Conference. Their research focused on the transmission of drugs in human cadavers to larvae and then to adult flies. The students’ research, along with the assistance of Eric Davis, a 2014 Tiffin University graduate and consultant for their project, allowed these efforts to progress. Together, they created a proposal using an innovative mass spectrometry technique to analyze levels of acetaminophen in larvae, adult flies and the substrate in which they thrived.

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CRIMINAL JUSTICE STUDENTS PLACE IN RESEARCH COMPETITION

Tiffin University graduate students Abbie Jade-Riley and Kierstyn Jackson received awards at the 2023 Ohio Council of Criminal Justice Education (OCCJE) research conference and competition. Jade-Riley, who is pursuing a Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree in forensic psychology, won under the category of Best Criminal Justice Graduate Student in Ohio. Jackson, who is also pursuing a Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree in forensic psychology, won under the category of Best Research.

[ 9 ] ART GALLERY AND ALUMNI EVENT IN CLEVELAND On Friday, May 12, Tiffin University Assistant Professor of Chemistry Dr. John Schupp hosted a pandemic-inspired art gallery at Trinity Cathedral in Cleveland. The show included a TU alumni meet and greet, hosted by the Office of Alumni Relations and Institutional Advancement.

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TIFFIN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS PLACE IN TOP 7% IN NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY COMPETITION

Five undergraduate students from the Tiffin University Hacking Club competed in the spring 2023 National Cyber League (NCL) Competition, hosted biannually and open to teams across the country. Of the 3,593 participating teams, TU’s ranked 267, placing them in the top seven percent of the country. The competing students were Jon Klotz, Lindsey Murphy, Jaylen Lasseter, Miyo Fabregas, Vincent Volpe and Dustin Mobley.

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SCHOOL OF CJSS HOSTS SIXTH ANNUAL RESEARCH CONFERENCE AND COMPETITION

The Tiffin University School of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences (CJSS) hosted its Sixth Annual Research Conference and Competition. Both undergraduate and graduate students were invited to present their findings from a semester-long research project of their choosing, as well as compete for monetary prizes. The winners of the undergraduate research competition were Alana Thornsberry and Miyo Fabregas for their presentation about legal knowledge and attitudes surrounding abortion. Colton Price won in the category of Best Undergraduate Presentation. His work focused on the legal rights of students attending private colleges.

Kierstyn Jackson was recognized for having the best graduate student research paper, which was her master’s thesis on Crisis Intervention Training for law enforcement officers. Lastly, Olcay Karatas was acknowledged for giving the best presentation made by a graduate student.

Her work focused on the attitudes of American and international students toward sexting laws.

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TIFFIN UNIVERSITY ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT OF THREE EMPLOYEES

Tiffin University has announced the retirement of Dr. Thomas Debbink, Ms. Frances Ford-Hamilton and Dr. Steven Hurwitz. Combined, the trio has served the University for a total of 61 years. Debbink and Hurwitz were also awarded the title of Faculty Emeritus by the Board of Trustees, in recognition of their tenure. Dr. Thomas Debbink retired from his position as Professor of Management within the School of Business after 21 years of service. Ms. Frances Ford-Hamilton retired from her position as Nurse Practitioner within the TU Health Services Clinic after 11 years of service. Dr. Steven Hurwitz, Professor of Psychology and Criminal Justice, retired from his position within the School of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences after 29 years of service.

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2023 SPRING SEMESTER DEAN’S LIST

Tiffin University presented 752 undergraduate students who were awarded the Dean’s List for the 2023 spring semester. To qualify, students must be degree seeking, enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits hours and earn a 3.5 gpa or better. For a complete list, go to tiffin.edu/news/ tiffin-university-2023-spring-semester-deans-list.

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TU PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGIC INNOVATION SPOKE AT RESEARCH SUMMIT

Tiffin University’s President Dr. Lillian Schumacher and Vice President for Strategic Innovation Ron Lonzo recently presented at the 2023 Arizona State University Global Silicon Valley Summit. Both Schumacher’s and Lonzo’s contributions occurred during a panel discussion on the value of small colleges as innovation testing sites.

[ 15 ] STUDENT SCHOLAR ALL-STARS –

ANNUAL ACADEMIC HONORS CEREMONY On Sunday, April 2, members of the Tiffin University community, students, their families and friends gathered in person and by livestream to celebrate the scholarly achievements of the spring 2023 graduating seniors.

Since its birth, the Annual Undergraduate Academic Honors Ceremony has recognized and praised soon-to-be graduates who have achieved cumulative GPAs of 3.5 or higher by presenting them with the Academic Distinction Award. This year, 190 students earned the distinction with 91 students attending the ceremony to be celebrated.

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OPEN HOUSE FOR RISING HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

On Friday, April 21, Tiffin University’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions held an open house for rising high school seniors interested in getting a head start on the college search. Attendees were taken on a full, guided tour of campus and had the opportunity to sit for an informational meeting covering the topics of admission and financial aid. They also experienced an interactive academic session with members of TU’s faculty, attended a campus resource fair and student life Q&A panel with current undergraduates.

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DIANE KIDD GALLERY SHOWCASED “BUILDING CHARACTER” MIXED MEDIA EXHIBIT

From April 3 to May 5, Tiffin University’s Diane Kidd Gallery featured “Building Character,” a mixed media artwork exhibition from Justin Michael Will and Will Wilson, both artists from the Cleveland area. Justin Michael Will is a visual artist living in University Heights, Ohio. Will Wilson is a Cleveland-based, California-bred artist who specializes in bold, colorful characters, bizarre interpretations of the normal and a boundless imagination.

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DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES WITH ARIANA SEANOR

In April, the School of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences hosted its Distinguished Lecture Series with Ariana Seanor as the evening’s speaker. Ariana Seanor is a Tiffin University alumna and currently serves as a United States Capitol police officer in Washington D.C. She was recently awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for service to her country on January 6, 2021, amidst the protestor attack on the U.S. Capitol building.

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TIFFIN UNIVERSITY ANNOUNCES NEW ONLINE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The Tiffin University School of Science, Technology and Health has added two new online degree programs to its list of offerings – a Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity and information assurance and a Master of Science in clinical exercise physiology. TU’s cybersecurity and information assurance program addresses evolving threats to the economy and society in cyberspace. The clinical exercise physiology program addresses how longterm exercise regimens affect health and longevity and is ideal for students who want to help people improve their physical and mental health through exercise and movement.

[ 20 ] TERRA STATE STUDENTS WELCOMED

FOR DRAGONNEXT EVENT On April 19, Tiffin University hosted a group of students from Terra State Community College interested in learning about the DragonNext associate to bachelor’s degree completion program. The DragonNext program offers a seamless transition for students wishing to complete a four-year degree at TU after finishing a twoyear degree through Terra. Enrolled students are eligible for an automatic transfer of all course credits, significant cost reductions, scholarship opportunities and expedited degree completion tracks.

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OHIO INNOCENCE PROJECT CHAPTER HOSTED RICHARD HORTON, JANETTE HORTON AND PIERCE REED

On March 22, Tiffin University’s undergraduate chapter of the Ohio Innocence Project (OIP-u: TU) hosted Richard Horton and his wife, Janette, for a virtual presentation.

Pierce Reed, Director of Policy and Engagement for the Ohio Innocence Project, moderated the conversation.

Horton was convicted in 2006 and sentenced to 23 years in prison for a home invasion and robbery in Columbus, as well as allegedly shooting a victim in the leg. Thanks to the efforts of the Ohio Innocence Project, Horton was released from prison after serving nearly 16 years and was granted a new trial thanks to emerging DNA analysis technology.

[ 22 ] ATHLETICS HOSTS “BE THE MATCH”

BONE MARROW REGISTRY PROGRAM The Tiffin University men’s football, women’s soccer and women’s basketball teams participated in the bone marrow donor recruitment program Get in the Game (GITG), an initiative of the Be the Match organization.

Attendees had the chance to join the bone marrow national registry that day by providing a DNA sample via mouth swab. Be the Match is the global leader in bone marrow transplantation services and research.

[ 23 ] TU RANKED A TOP SCHOOL FOR

ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREES Tiffin University has been recognized as one of the 2023 best schools for online learning at the master’s level through OnlineMastersDegrees.org (OMD). Only CAMPUS SCENE / 14

six percent of regionally accredited postsecondary institutions earned a ranked position in any OMD category.

Several TU programs earned top honors for overall quality, affordability and commitment to student success, placing in the following areas: • Best Online Master’s Degrees in Psychology • Best Online Master’s Degrees in International Business • Most Affordable Online Master’s Degrees in Marketing • Best Online Master of Business Administration Degree Programs in Ohio • Best Online Master’s Degrees in Homeland Security

[ 24 ] TIFFIN UNIVERSITY RECEIVES

SILVER DESIGNATION AS

MILITARY FRIENDLY® SCHOOL Tiffin University has been named a Military Friendly® School for the 2023-2024 academic year. The designation was made by the Military Friendly organization, after surveying levels of satisfaction among qualifying military and/or veteran students. TU was named a silver institution for the second consecutive year. The rank of silver is granted to colleges and universities that not only meet Military Friendly®’s rigorous set of standards, but also score well on the aforementioned survey. In order to receive this distinction, TU’s military and veteran approval ratings had to fall within 20% of the 10th ranking school in the same category.

[ 25 ] SCHOOL OF CREATIVE AND MEDIA

ARTS PRODUCES “NEXT TO NORMAL”

MUSICAL AND ACCOMPANYING EVENTS In March, TU's School of Creative and Media Arts featured four student performances of the musical, “Next to Normal” under Justin DeLong, Instructor of Music. With book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, “Next to Normal” was the winner of three 2009 Tony Awards, including best musical score and won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for drama. “Next to Normal” addresses issues such as grief, loss, suicidality, drug abuse and ethics in modern psychiatry.

[ 26 ] SCHOOL OF BUSINESS HELD

ANNUAL SUMMIT TO SUCCESS The School of Business hosted its 10th Annual Summit to Success in March. Brian Edler, Owner, President and CEO of Domino’s Pizza kicked off the event and provided attendees with vouchers for free pizza. Having started as a Domino’s pizza maker in 1982 on his 18th birthday, Edler now personally owns and operates 43 franchise locations and has plans to purchase 15 more by the end of 2023. He also holds six Guinness World Records in the categories of fastest pizza making and largest pizzas. The keynote was presented by Lauren Barnes `08, Senior Director of 777X Program Management for Boeing.

[ 27 ] TIFFIN UNIVERSITY HIGHLIGHTS

ASSOCIATE TO BACHELOR’S

DEGREE PROGRAM Tiffin University is proud to partner with community colleges for pathways of study that will lead to a fouryear degree. With TU’s A2B (Associate to Bachelor’s degree completion) program, students who have an associate degree from a regionally accredited institution can earn their bachelor’s degree from Tiffin University in 61 (or fewer) credits. No matter the field of study, an associate degree can count towards a Tiffin University bachelor’s degree in psychology, workplace leadership, business management, human resource management, manufacturing management, marketing, accounting or contemporary justice. Since the launch of the A2B program in summer 2022, TU has enrolled 65 associate to bachelor’s degree completion students.

[ 28 ] DIANE KIDD GALLERY SHOWCASE

“PATTERNS IN CLAY”

CERAMICS EXHIBIT

[ 32 ] OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT HOSTS

ONLINE AUCTION The Tiffin University Office of Advancement hosted the Third Annual FORE Fun Online Auction in tandem with the yearly FORE Fun in Florida Golf Outing. Sponsored by Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP, all proceeds went toward TU’s Annual Fund, which supports scholarship opportunities, student and academic life, technology upgrades, campus beautification and more.

[ 33 ] OHIO INNOCENCE PROJECT CHAPTER

WELCOMES DEAN GILLISPIE, BARRY

ROWEN AND PIERCE REED In February, Tiffin University’s undergraduate chapter of the Ohio Innocence Project (OIP-u:TU) featured a screening of “Spiz,” a documentary about the life and artwork of Dean Gillispie, who spent 20 years imprisoned for crimes he did not commit. Gillispie, the film’s director Barry Rowan and Pierce Reed of the OIP lead a discussion following the film.

In February and March, the Diane Kidd Gallery featured “Patterns in Clay.” Kaname and Sumiko Takada, husband and wife, are both ceramic artists and have created Studio Takada, located in Columbus. Kaname Takada is a professor in the School of Studio Arts at the Columbus College of Art and Design. His hand-built pieces are decorated with intricate patterns created with multiple slips and glazes on the surface. Sumiko Takada has been working with clay for over 20 years. She has studied in Japan and in Columbus at the Worthington Community Center and the Columbus College of Art and Design. Sumiko creates her functional work with stoneware. Her inlaid pieces are also crafted by hand.

[ 34 ] TU’S DR. BONNIE TIELL LEADS

INTERNATIONAL WORKSHOP

IN BAHRAIN

[ 29 ] MEN’S SOCCER TEAM

HOSTS YOUTH KIDS CAMP

Tiffin University Associate Professor of Management Dr. Diego Hernandez, recently published his research paper, “Relationships Between Corporate Financial Performance and Corporate Social Responsibility When Controlling for Socially and Environmentally Conscious Investments” in The Economix. The online journal focuses on the science of economics and has an international following.

In February, the Tiffin University men’s soccer team hosted its first-ever youth camp for kids ages 3 to 14 in the Heminger Center. There were several sessions available, based on each child’s age group and skill level.

[ 30 ] CHEERLEADERS HOST LITTLE

DRAGONS CHEER CLINIC The Tiffin University cheerleading team hosted the Little Dragons Cheer Clinic in February. Participants learned the fundamentals of cheerleading, including chants, jumps and a dance. Immediately following, students had the chance to perform a routine for the TU men’s basketball game halftime show.

[ 31 ]

TIFFIN UNIVERSITY HOSTS 32ND ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL DINNER

The TU Office of International Affairs held the 32nd Annual International Dinner on March 25. The theme of this year’s dinner was “To Travel is to Live,” after the quote by Hans Christian Andersen. The event celebrated the cultures of the University’s international students. The dinner featured cuisine from around the globe, musical and artistic performances and more.

In conjunction with the National Sports Summit hosted by the General Sports Authority (GSA), Dr. Bonnie Tiell, Professor of Sports Management, conducted a week of training workshops in February. The workshops were for approximately 90 administrators and executives from national teams, Olympic federations and sports properties in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

[ 35 ] HERNANDEZ PUBLISHES RESEARCH PAPER

[ 36 ] PHI THETA PI HONORARY SOCIETY

HONORS TU STUDENT SETH SCHREIBER Tiffin University’s chapter of the Phi Theta Pi academic honorary society recognized TU student and active member, Seth Schreiber, at their annual awards banquet and buffet. Schreiber was selected as the 2023 recipient of the organization’s George Dupey Academic Scholarship, in the amount of $1,000. Schreiber of Oxford, Connecticut was a senior double major in forensic psychology, as well as homeland security and terrorism. He hopes to enter the field of threat assessment and research following graduation.

15 / CAMPUS SCENE

[ 37 ] TIFFIN UNIVERSITY HOSTS VIRTUAL

SPORT AND FITNESS SHOWCASE In February, the sports management program hosted a virtual sport and fitness showcase. TU students and community members were encouraged to attend and engage with alumni and friends of the institution who are seasoned professionals in the world of health and athletics. This year’s keynote speaker was Buffy Filippell, founder of Teamworkonline, the leading talent acquisition and networking platform in the sports and entertainment industry.

[ 38 ] PH.D. STUDENTS COMPLETE FIRST

INTERNATIONAL TRIP Tiffin University doctoral students Anita Gregory and Erin Marchant completed a one-week cultural trip as part of their coursework in the Ph.D. program in global leadership and change. The October trip included a tour of Bucharest, the Village Museum and an excursion to the Transylvania region of Romania. They were also hosted by and conducted discussions with managers at Ziarul Financiar, Romania’s largest business publication, and Ursus brewery.

[ 39 ] TU STUDENT-ATHLETES ACTIVE IN

SENECA COUNTY COMMUNITY Tiffin University’s Athletic Department was active in the Seneca County community during the fall 2022 semester. Led by the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), numerous TU student-athletes have volunteered in the area on a variety of levels.

Two of the biggest events were the Washington Elementary Walk and hosting Voting Day. The Walk and Roll to School Day was organized around Washington K-1 Elementary School and involved Washington’s administration, staff, teachers and hundreds of students participating. Tiffin University staff and athletes, along with community members and supporters also participated. Tiffin University’s SAAC also held a mock voting day for elementary youths in the Heminger Center. The event involved over 217 fourth and fifthgrade students from Calvert Catholic Schools, HopewellLoudon and Mohawk Local School Districts. A total of 11 polls were set up in the Heminger Center with students voting on a variety of topics such as favorite foods, colors and other topics. The exercise highlighted the importance of voting on election day. The results of the student vote were announced at the Tiffin UniversityFindlay football game.

Acknowledgement: The Class Scene section of this publication was created with the significant help of TU student Samantha Sibbersen, Social Media Ambassador.

DRAGON CAMPUS SCENE / DR. JOYCE HALL-YATES / 16

DR. JOYCE HALL-YATES ON TU'S TRAJECTORY As a retired Vice Provost, Dean for the former School of Arts and Sciences and now-Emeriti Faculty member, Dr. Joyce Hall-Yates has been at the helm of many an important initiative or period of growth for the University.

Though she retired from her full-time role in 2022, she chooses to teach parttime, in addition to staying involved with the community. According to Dr. DR. JOYCE Hall-Yates, she chooses to do this, not HALL-YATES only because of her passion for teaching, but since she wants to remain present for TU's many down-theroad projects and programs.

"I want to be here to see these exciting plans come to fruition," she explained. "Additional academic majors, buildings and facilities, partnerships and so much more. It's an exciting journey we're all embarking on, and I'm thrilled to be part of it."

According to Dr. Hall-Yates, she is especially proud of how the University's faculty have been so thoughtful with the planning of curricula.

"During my tenure, we worked on implementing new programs that align with the mission and vision of the institution. While general education coursework is necessary, it can and should be supplemented by more niche topics, as well as opportunities for experiential learning. We, as faculty, took the extra care to ensure our students at the undergraduate level were provided with a strong, foundational education composed of the basics pertaining to their fields. This way, no matter their ultimate career path, they would always be able to shift focus and try something new if needed. At the same time, it is important for students to have access to more specialized topics, especially within their chosen fields of study, as many of them go on to enter graduate programs."

Of the many ways in which the University has grown since her time began, Dr. Hall-Yates describes TU's expansion of its educational coursework as a standout accomplishment.

"One new program being instated often leads to others getting off the ground as well," she offered. "I remember it happening when we first added exercise and forensic science majors. This started a push for other schools to follow suit and expand their own offerings, which is how we got computer science as a major, for example."

In her own words, this is all because of a collective commitment to creating a student-focused environment, one that provides them with as many options for enrichment as possible.

"I've had the opportunity to teach at other academic institutions throughout my career, and can say with confidence that the way members of TU's faculty support their students is unlike anything else I've encountered, even compared to what is offered at other small schools. Not only do they offer immense support to their mentees, but simultaneously hold them to high standards of academic excellence and moral character. Our students are challenged to become critical thinkers and better people. In my opinion, this unique combination sets graduates up for success later in life."

A VETERAN VP

WENDY MILLER ON HER MANY TASKS, TEXAS AND TU line, I discovered through some required coursework that I had a knack for marketing, management, communication and such. I thought I would be happier if I could go the entrepreneur route and be my own boss, so that’s why I finished my degree in business management.”

As the long-standing Vice President of Channel Development and Customer Experience at Igloo, Inc., Wendy Miller `88 has grown accustomed to being a wearer of many hats when it comes to her career. In her professional life, she is primarily responsible for the management of a 24-member customer service team. In addition, she works alongside a data analytics team and acts as a liaison between product managers and sales representatives to segment retailers that carry Igloo products across all channels. Lastly, she is in charge of product pricing and the oversight of the Igloo Corporate Company Store.

“In short, I officially, and by proxy, oversee three teams under the company umbrella and work with all the others from time to time,” she began. “Having been with Igloo for so long, I’ve become the go-to person for things that fall outside my scope of formal responsibilities, just because I know how everything works.

I’m forever having people pop into my office with questions or being thrown into meetings for other teams who want my opinion. It’s never boring, that’s for sure. I think that’s why I don’t mind the hectic schedule – it keeps things interesting.”

Wendy’s position centers around improving the customer experience and ensuring buyers – both consumers and other companies – are satisfied with the product itself and the buying process.

WENDY MILLER

“

“Wendy Miller is a true Dragon for life! A TU grad who excelled in the classroom as well as on the softball diamond, Wendy is a Tiffin University Hall of Famer who continues to support the University as a member of our Tiffin Society. Wendy just participated in our Dragon Alumni and Friends trip to the Dominican Republic where we basked in the sun, enjoyed the company of other Dragons and made great memories. We can always count on Wendy for her wisdom, great spirit and mentorship.”

Following graduation, Wendy spent eight years working at Rubbermaid before relocating to Texas in the hopes of moving up the corporate ladder – which is exactly what happened once she secured a position with Igloo in 2006. In her own words, the education she received at TU proved instrumental in her ability to grow her career.

“Small, intimate class sizes proved crucial for me,” she said. “I developed a good rapport with my professors and never felt intimidated going up to speak with them after class or during office hours. I also think that their strong sports programs helped me grow in my confidence and leadership abilities and those skills ultimately transferred as I entered my work.”

When asked about what makes Wendy most proud to be a Tiffin Dragon, she had the following to say:

“Being able to see – even from a distance, being in Texas and all – how much the University has expanded over the years has been an incredible experience. Watching us go from a one-schoolhouse campus to having “It all boils down to order fulfillment,” Wendy all that we do today has been a real joy. I explained. “Making sure we complete them remember back to my days on campus when in a timely fashion, ensuring we have the - Michael Herdlick, there was no Heminger Center or Paradiso inventory needed to fulfill them, reaching out Associate Vice President for Athletic Complex. We played softball offto our manufacturing teams when we don’t, Institutional Advancement campus at a local park. There weren’t even working with scheduling teams to ensure a any bathrooms on-site,” she said with a prompt delivery – whatever makes the buyer laugh. “It’s heartwarming to me that TU’s want to work with us again. I don’t necessarily facilities now reflect the same caliber of education they’ve handle the step-by-step processes to make these things happen, always provided their students.” but I do work with all teams to keep things running smoothly.”

Though she now resides in Texas, Wendy remains an involved Dragon alumna in spite of her busy schedule and remembers her days spent on campus fondly.

Though now based in Houston, Wendy is an Ohio native and remains an avid fan of the Cleveland Guardians. She and her family make a point to attend as many games as possible when in town and watch the rest on TV religiously.

“I was recruited in the fall of 1984 to play on TU’s first fastpitch softball team,” she offered. “Originally, I wanted to become a physical education teacher, so TU’s large athletics presence on campus is what initially attracted me. Down the 17 / A VETERAN VP

MAKING IT MORE INCLUSIVE

CHADERICK JOHNSON’S DRAGON STORY With the field of information technology growing each day, many within the industry are looking to debunk the old stereotype that working in IT is impersonal and solitary. In fact, many are striving to showcase the industry for what it truly is – a thriving network of people who prioritize collaboration and innovation to solve the problems of businesses worldwide.

This is exactly what TU graduate Chaderick (Chad) CHADERICK JOHNSON Johnson hopes to accomplish through his work at the Intel Corporation. Chad is Intel’s Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Director for Ohio and part of the Global Inclusion and Social Impact organization. His responsibilities include establishing a diverse and inclusive workforce for the soon-to-be New Albany, Ohio Intel site, as well as helping the company achieve its RISE 2030 goals. Through this initiative, the company hopes to reduce its global manufacturing and supply chain footprint, as well as advance product energy efficiency.

“Yes, the field is called information technology, but there’s much more to it than the tech side of things. In order for places like Intel to serve their clients effectively, they need to dedicate time to building genuine relationships and understanding their unique goals, and this doesn’t happen overnight. Businesses also value employees who work to develop their soft skills. Being able to collaborate with peers from across the globe and with those who aren’t technical professionals is essential in today’s technology-driven world.”

In addition to shifting the public opinion on what people in the field do, Chad is equally passionate about cultivating environments where people of all backgrounds are celebrated and comfortable, as strong professional networks and relationships encourage effective communication, synergy and yes, even productivity.

“My role is a bit unique in the sense that it requires me to focus both on strengthening Intel’s internal culture for the Ohio location, as well as our relationships with external parties and other organizations across the country,” he offered. “I collaborate with local entities, workforce partners, K-12 institutions and other D&I professionals to strengthen Intel’s brand – all for the purpose of creating an atmosphere that benefits our current and future workforce.”

MAKING IT MORE INCLUSIVE / 18

Chad also partners with Intel’s talent acquisition lead to develop and implement strategies that diversify applicant pools for job vacancies and streamline recruitment processes. Once candidates are hired, Intel believes in empowering these traditionally underrepresented groups and voices. One way they achieve this is by offering over 40 unique employee resource groups to their constituents, where employees are encouraged to continually learn about the cultures and experiences of their peers and others. Additionally, Chad works to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion-based practices are built into new company initiatives from the beginning, instead of being included as an afterthought.

“I want to make sure everybody at Intel feels that they belong and can have long, fulfilling careers with us,” Chad continued. “I also want K-12 youth to know that opportunities at Intel are for them and not just a select few.”

Chad attributes much of his passion for his current field to his former TU mentors and recalls his time spent as a student fondly.

“Coach Croy and Lisa Kirchner were instrumental in helping me reach my true potential, both in terms of sports, leadership and confidence in my own abilities. They were my biggest advocates, and I didn’t even realize it at the time. Now, I want to do all I can to advocate for others – take what they modeled for me and apply it to my career.”

Chad also asserts that the education he received as a Dragon more than adequately prepared him for his career.

“In addition to a top-notch academic experience, I would say much of what I did outside the classroom still ended up contributing to my ability to succeed in IT,” Chad offered.

“Being a resident assistant enhanced my communication and collaboration skills and taught me how to effectively mediate conflict. Being a student-athlete helped me develop my selfdiscipline and time management skills and taught me how to work through adversity.”

Speaking of being a former collegiate athlete, Chad also happens to be a 2021 recipient of the Carry the Torch Award. The award is given annually to former track or cross country runners who exemplified a dedication to excellence as a student and continues to do so as an alumnus.

“It wasn’t at all expected, but appreciated more than words can describe,” said Chad. “Getting recognized for my track achievements actually got me thinking. As a student, I knew I was an above average athlete, but never thought I would receive any sort of award for it. The second I stepped on campus as a freshman, my coaches pushed me to go from good to great. It was the same with my academic coursework. I remember my professors would always give me advice on how to improve my papers or presentations and push me to excel academically. That’s

what the people at TU do – they challenge you to achieve more than you ever thought possible. It’s a philosophy I try to model now, working in human resources and DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion).”

When asked about his overall experience on campus, Chad had this to say: “I’m forever grateful to Tiffin University.

Not only was I afforded a quality education, but I was able to meet my wife, as well as several lifelong friends while I was enrolled. I loved every second spent both in and out of the classroom. I owe this institution so much for preparing me for the professional world and for introducing me to the people who would prove most influential in my life.”

Chad and his wife, Bridgett Johnson, have three children together and currently live in Findlay. Bridgett graduated from TU in 2010 with a BA in history. She currently works as a high school social studies teacher.

“

“Chad Johnson is the epitome of an all-around Tiffin University student. He was successful socially, athletically and academically at the high school and college levels and continues to excel in his career and fatherhood.

We adore the entire Johnson family (Chad, Bridgett, Camden, Bennett and Weston) and are honored to call them Dragons.”

– Jeremy Croy, Assistant Vice President for Development

Chad attended TU from 2004 to 2008 and graduated with a BBA in management information systems.

He later went on to receive an MBA in 2012.

He began his career at Marathon Petroleum as an IT Systems Integrator, before moving to internal auditing and IT business analyst work. Eventually, a former mentor suggested he join the world of human resources. The rest is history.

19 / MAKING IT MORE INCLUSIVE

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME

A DONOR SPOTLIGHT STORY ins and outs of my field, so I’m happy to do the same for current-day business students,” Andy said.

While many young adults are eager to spread their wings and explore the world, many are content to discover all that their hometowns has to offer. For Andy `94 and Leslie Felter, this was exactly the case.

Since graduating, Andy has dedicated his time and expertise to mentoring the next generation of students. Though Leslie did not graduate from TU, she believes in the University just as much as her husband and even serves on the University’s Board of Counselors in her spare time.

Born and raised near Tiffin, Andy and Leslie briefly relocated to attend separate colleges before returning to their old stomping grounds, finding careers - and each other in the process.

“I frequently have TU’s exercise science and sports management majors intern at my practice,” said Leslie. “Anyone interested in occupational therapy as a post-TU career is welcome in my office. In fact, several of my former mentees have gone on to become certified OTs (occupational therapists) themselves.”

Andy is the President and CEO of Webster Industries Inc. and Chairman of the Tiffin University Board of Trustees. Leslie is a locally practicing Occupational Therapist (OTR/L), having operated in the greater Northwest Ohio region for more than 25 years.

Both separately and together, the couple ANDY AND LESLIE FELTER “We both see the value in connecting has given of their time, talent and treasure professional practice to the student in the pursuit of helping TU students gain experience,” said Andy. “Our community has been so generous relevant experience through immersive learning opportunities. with us throughout the years, we feel it is our obligation to give back.”

“I had many people in my corner willing to help teach me the

ROCKIN' RETIREES

THREE PILLARS OF TU BEGIN NEW JOURNEYS Tiffin University is incredibly proud of Dr. Thomas Debbink, Ms. Frances Ford-Hamilton and Dr. Steven Hurwitz, who recently announced their respective retirements after a collective 61 years of service to the institution. Though their absence will be felt, the Dragon family wishes them all the best as they move on, and thanks them for the significant impacts they've had on the community.

Congratulations to each retiree!

Dr. Thomas Debbink has retired from his position as Professor of Management within the School of Business after 21 years of service.

Ms. Frances Ford-Hamilton retired from her position as Nurse Practitioner within the TU Health Services Clinic after 11 years of service.

Dr. Steven Hurwitz, Professor of Psychology and Criminal Justice, ended his tenure within the School of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences after 29 years of service.

DR. THOMAS DEBBINK

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME / ROCKIN' RETIREES / 20

MS. FRANCES FORD-HAMILTON

DR. STEVEN HURWITZ

THEN VERSUS NOW

DR. JOHN MILLAR AND MR. WILLIAM HERTZER ON TU THROUGH THE YEARS since helping his alma mater expand, and his philanthropy has allowed for the building of the Hertzer Technology Center and the William F. Hertzer Department of Accounting and Finance - both aptly-named in honor of his support.

With 2023 being TU's 135th anniversary, Dragons everywhere are feeling both nostalgic and proud of all that has been accomplished throughout its history. To honor these feelings and in light of this special occasion, the University asked a couple beloved community members to provide their thoughts on TU's trajectory from their first moment on campus to present-day.

Dr. John Millar, Emeritus Professor of International Management and Dean Emeritus spent 33 years working and teaching as a Dragon and was one of the integral parties responsible for the instatement of many initiatives still running today, such as the international campus in Bucharest, Romania.

As a twice-appointed Dean of the School of Business among several other roles, Millar has done much to shape the academic entity alongside former President, Dr. George Kidd.

"When I was a student, there were only around 125 of us. It's been a privilege to both watch and have a hand in the expansion of my university. I am consistently amazed by how much we've grown in both size and resources during what has really been a short period of time, considering the year we were founded," said Hertzer.

DR. JOHN MILLAR

In the time since, TU's total enrollment has swelled to just over 3,000 and continues to grow each year as programs are added and expanded.

Tiffin University Alumnus and Board of Trustee Member, Mr. William (Bill) Hertzer '60 is not just a former student, but one of the institution's most generous donors, as well as the second-ever recipient of the Frank E. Murphy Award - the institution’s highest honor.

It is given only to those who demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to helping others.

Being veteran Dragons, Millar and Hertzer were able to provide an expert's look into what campus was like in the past compared to the MR. WILLIAM HERTZER present, and both were pleased to report on the substantial growth they've both witnessed and helped to facilitate in their 90-plus years of combined involvement and service.

"When I first started, there were just over 400 students on campus using one classroom building and we owned a group of neighborhood houses for student residences and staff offices.

In essence, we had to build the University as it is today from the ground-up, both in terms of programs and facilities. It's wonderful being able to visit today's much bigger campus and remember our humbler beginnings and how far we've come since I've been involved," said Millar.

Today, the campus covers 153 acres. It sports over 30 academic, residential, administrative and recreational buildings, in addition to the offsite Paradiso Athletic Complex.

As a member of the Class of 1960, Hertzer has spent many years 21 / THEN VERSUS NOW

“When first founded, Tiffin University was actually named Tiffin Business University.”

LIFTING OTHERS UP

LAUREN BARNES ON SUCCESS, PHILANTHROPY AND HER ALMA MATER “That’s exactly why I wanted to be the keynote speaker for the In March of this year, Tiffin University’s Summit in the first place,” she noted. “I’m happy to help an School of Business and Business Club organization that did so much to prepare me for my career. It’s a hosted the 10th Annual Summit to little surreal – being invited back as an alum for something like Success event. Since its birth, the this. I’ve worked hard for all I’ve achieved, so TU seeing value in Summit’s purpose has been to afford what I bring to the table is both flattering and humbling.”

TU students a chance to learn from and After graduating from TU with a Bachelor of ask questions of Business Administration degree in marketing current executives, and business management, Lauren went on entrepreneurs and to earn a Master of Business Administration other leaders from LAUREN BARNES varying industries. For “The Summit to Success provides degree from Washington University in St. Louis, her current place of residence. She students the ability to network a decade, attendees have benefitted from the attributes much of her success in graduate and gain an understanding of collective wisdom of such guests, with 2023 what leaders in their respective school and in the field to the foundation she being no exception to the trend. industries feel they need to received as a Dragon. know to be successful. Lauren This year’s keynote speaker for the Summit was Barnes did a phenomenal job of “TU provided me with a solid set of soft TU alumna, Lauren Barnes `08, 777X Program using her real-life experiences, skills that are too often underappreciated Manager for Boeing Defense, Space and Security. coupled with her leadership in business circles. When you enter For someone who oversees the manufacturing and authenticity, to connect the workforce or a graduate program, and distribution of commercial and military students to the reality of her people assume you already know how to aircrafts, Lauren is quite the grounded person – position within Boeing. She is communicate effectively or collaborate as part passionate about her career, but able to juggle extensive volunteer and nonprofit more importantly, she expressed of a team. This isn’t necessarily the case and work with professional endeavors. She serves her passion for giving back to such skills are rarely taught to new hires in on the Board of Directors for Dog Tag Inc., based the students at TU. I believe true training. I think the University’s recognition of in Washington, D.C., as well as the Women’s leaders and alumni like Lauren, this, coupled with their experiential learning Foundation of Greater Saint Louis. Additionally, who continue to support our opportunities, helps prepare students for life she has spent over a decade working with students, help us further prepare beyond the institution more so than they private industries and government entities like Tiffin University graduates.” initially realize. Anybody can be taught the NASA, the Pentagon and Congress. ins and outs of a business, but it takes finesse – Corri Miller, Assistant to develop and maintain positive working Professor of Management When asked if she would be willing to be relationships.” interviewed for this edition of Challenge Magazine while visiting campus, she Lauren also believes that TU was happily agreed, citing the importance of and continues to be a socially giving back to the community that engaging place and remembers her helped mold her. time spent as a student fondly.

“

“It’s been fun to see how campus has changed in the years since I was last here,” she offered. “The nostalgia of it all came back to me the moment I set foot on campus again. The students have such an infectious energy about them, too. It reminded me of my time spent here in the best of ways – all the friends I made while I was in their shoes. I still keep in touch with many of them, even though we’re scattered across the country now.”

Lauren with Presid ent George W. Bush e during lan airp at el Ang e he Blu r office in D.C. wh a of t Lauren in fron en he came to spea the airplanes ere k wh is, Lou St. to t visi ual her ann LIFTING OTHERS UP / 22 are made

When asked what advice she had for anyone looking to achieve success in their particular field, Lauren had this to say: “Understanding how you as an individual define ‘success’ is just as important as achieving it, because this looks different for everybody,” she began. “Some people have families, side projects and passions outside of what pays the bills, and it’s a valid choice to prioritize those things. Some people value time more than money and vice versa. Neither answer is right or wrong, as no two people are alike. Understanding that and setting boundaries accordingly is important to being happier in the long run.”

Lauren continued the thought and touched on how to find fulfillment in the professional world, as she believes satisfaction and achievement go hand in hand.

“You have to love what you do, first and foremost. You’ll bring the best version of yourself to work every day if you have and follow a passion. Also, don’t always keep your head down and focus only on the day-to-day tasks. Pick your head up from time to time and remind yourself that what you’re doing impacts the world beyond – that others directly benefit from your labor. It’s okay to look at the bigger picture, to take a moment for gratitude and celebration when you have a win. That’s what will fuel your sense of purpose.”

When it came time for Lauren to give her keynote address to the hundreds of Summit attendees, she echoed many similar sentiments to those shared during the interview – her quickwittedness, sense of humor and selfless nature shining through in the presentation.

“I know it’s tempting to work your life away, because you see those quantifiable achievements and feel instant gratification from them. However, I’m forever telling my mentees that the Boeing Company will not tuck them into their beds at night – that they are whole, fully realized people who have purpose outside the office. Avoiding burnout is so important, and it’s paramount that you find ways to recharge so you can continually perform to the best of your ability. For me, a big part of this is my nonprofit work and mentoring young professionals like you. It will always be an honor to lift others up, personally or professionally. This is what fills my cup and keeps me going.”

Lauren Barnes is the 777X Program Manager for Boeing Defense, Space and Security, where she leads program operations for the purposes of designing, manufacturing and assembling the new 777X aircraft composite wings. Prior to her current role, Barnes has held several other positions within Boeing’s tactical aircraft and weapons divisions.

She has also spent time in Washington, D.C., where she was the Chief of Staff for Government Operations, having served as a strategic advisor to the Executive Vice President of Government Operations – overseeing a number of legislative and regulatory campaigns. While in D.C., she also served as the Director and Chief of Staff for Boeing Defense, Space and Security within Government Operations and as a liaison between Boeing and the Pentagon, NASA and Department of Homeland Security.

Additionally, Barnes has held various roles across the fields of sales, marketing, strategy and finance.

She began her career in the Business Career Foundations Program out of southern California.

Lauren is the recipient of Tiffin University’s 2023 Young Alumni Achievement Award. Lauren will receive the award alongside the other recipients during the upcoming Green & Gold - Homecoming and Family Weekend.

Another way Lauren chooses to fill her cup is by traveling. A frequent jet setter (which is no surprise given her line of work), she spends much of her free time exploring new cities and destinations. Her most recent excursion was a trip to Oregon’s wine country with a group of close friends.

j Mahal ont of the Ta the team in fr d an n a. re di u La 8 In working F/A-1 when she was

Lauren and some of Boeing’s Leadership Next mem bers in Charleston, South Carolina at the class kick-off.

23 / LIFTING OTHERS UP

INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS

A LOOK AT TU’S CAMPUS IN BUCHAREST, ROMANIA THROUGH THE YEARS Last April, the Dragon community programs to help these people. It didn’t take long to realize there were celebrated a significant historical opportunities to provide the same kind of aid in their home country milestone. In this instance however, as well. So, Dr. Mays applied and received a USAID (United States the phrase “community” applied to Agency International Development) grant to establish a criminal members who live far outside the City of justice educational program at the University of Bucharest, and we Tiffin, Ohio. For Tiffin University’s 135th were later asked to assist in building their business curriculum as Annual Commencement Ceremony, the well. Things took off from there.” institution was proud and pleased to host undergraduate and graduate students "When I first began to coordinate faculty staffing for the Romania from its campus in Bucharest, Romania. program, I was not sure I could get enough faculty to run the RUXANDRA VODA As luck would have it, the anniversary program long-term," explained Laura Mays, TU Emeritus Professor of TU’s founding happened to coincide of Management. "Although we have used adjunct faculty often, I have been impressed and touched by our full-time professors' level with several other events worth celebrating for these international of participation. I think we would all agree that the experience has students. Members of the 20th international Executive Master of changed our lives. Even more importantly, it has changed the lives Business Administration (EMBA) cohort, the inaugural Romanian of our students in their professions and in Bachelor of Business Administration class their personal lives. Over the last twenty years, and the first-ever online Doctor of Philosophy our students in Romania have credited Tiffin Romanian graduate traveled to Tiffin to with making a significant contribution to their receive their degrees in person, as well as take careers and personal growth. Our EMBA has part in the pomp and circumstance.

“The importance of a globally-informed been recognized as the number one program of academic environment cannot be its kind in Romania, and now after four years in With so many benchmarks to celebrate, it understated. As many industries and existence, our BBA program has gained national seemed only fitting to invite these folks to organizations frequently deal with recognition as well. It has been a pleasure and experience a Dragon graduation firsthand, overseas partners and clients, not only privilege to participate in this." and even more appropriate to talk about the is it practical, but it is also ethical and groundbreaking program which made it all rewarding to become versed in how At the time of the program's birth, Romania possible right here. different cultures approach various was at a crossroads, having just been freed practices. TU’s faculty, staff and students from the former Soviet Union’s influence. As "TU is the only American-based University are better off for this partnership with the country was still finding its footing, they with an additional facility in Romania that Romania, and we are grateful for the asked TU to intervene at a critical point in their offers internationally accredited BBA and opportunity to help this country develop timeline.

MBA degree programs, taught exclusively its own curricula and have them learn

by American professors. In addition, the from us as we have from them.”

“We started at the executive level,” Dr. Shafer same satellite campus has served Romanian explained. “As a newly-independent country, EMBA candidates for two decades and more - Dr. Peter J. Holbrook, Provost local authorities and companies needed recently, BBA students. International students and Chief Academic Officer guidance on how to manage a fully operational wanting to pursue doctoral studies can also criminal justice system. Our approach was do so within TU’s affiliated online Global to work directly with the professionals involved to help establish Leadership and Change program. With all BBA and MBA courses relevant policies and practices. That success led to The University of held at a physical facility in Bucharest, these students are able to Bucharest’s Rector asking us to turn our attention to assisting with enjoy a traditional college experience just like those at TU's American improving various business functions. Once the administrative campus." infrastructure was solid, we shifted our focus toward offering formal educational programs.”

The story of how this all came to be, while unorthodox, is very much in alignment with TU’s commitment to taking risks. As is often the Since then, TU's international campus has come a long way and case with these efforts, the rewards for all involved have been well done much to enrich the lives of its students and graduates. worth the gamble.

According to Ion Georgescu EMBA '23, he sought out the TU coursework as a means of both personal and professional “It all began with us identifying a need and making a commitment development. to helping this country,” said Dr. Teresa Shafer, Executive Dean for Institutional Affairs, Professor of Management. “Years ago, we learned "I would say that I have a self-taught side, but theoretical training or that Romanian natives had been traveling to Cleveland and wanted individual study isn't enough to succeed," began Ion. "I was looking assistance navigating American culture. It just so happened that for a program with a complete curriculum that would contribute Dr. Laura Mays was living nearby and had been doing consulting to the development of my leadership and strategic management work in Eastern Europe. She was familiar with the cultural norms skills, which involves the ability to understand the vision of the and became their point of contact. Eventually, TU began providing INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS / 24

MIOARA IOFCIULESCU

ANDRIA COMANECI

ION GEORGESCU

“The 20th EMBA cohort carried out its activities during multiple global crises - from the pandemic, to the war in Ukraine, worldwide inflation, economic decline and the energy shortage.

However, this was the best time to test what we learned in the classroom in applied settings and witness how businesses adapted their approaches to these obstacles versus only learning about it in a classroom.”

“Enrolling in TU's BBA program was one of the best decisions of my life. In fact, I plan to return in the near future for my EMBA. I was able to put the knowledge I gained through my coursework to use both in running my own small business, and through my role with IPSOS. In fact, I was promoted to the rank of Innovation Project Manager with the organization after only six months of employment. I owe so much of this to my mentors and professors.”

“Tiffin University gave me access to experts and experienced teachers from the USA. Their demonstrated academic excellence is supported by experience in multiple industries spanning across the world. I had the opportunity to develop my understanding of how business works and how it is conducted at a global level, in a highenergy environment.”

- Mioara Iofciulescu, Managing Director for Atlantis Romania

- Andrei Comaneci, Innovation Project Manager for IPSOS Interactive Services

organization. To establish clear objectives and priorities, develop strategies and create an environment that encourages commitment, creativity and high performance. I most certainly found this at TU." For Mioara Iofciulescu EMBA '23, the program's true strength was its blending of classroom instruction with opportunities to practice what is learned in the field. Even with its international programs, TU's commitment to providing experiential learning opportunities remains unchanged. Mioara also particularly enjoyed the chance to bond with others in her classes.

"Being an EMBA student was an extraordinary experience - totally different from any academic training I have had until now," said Mioara. "In my opinion, the concept of 'learning by doing,' which is the foundation of this program, is a great teaching method that successfully combines theoretical information with practical applications. Each student is given the opportunity to utilize what is being taught right away.

Working in teams with professionals from different industries gave us a platform to share experiences and debate ideas that otherwise would not have been possible."

According to Ruxandra Voda, the first-ever TU Romanian Ph.D. graduate, the student experience was very rewarding. She has since remained involved in life at TU in addition to her full-time professional role in Romania. She works as an affiliate professor and

- Ion Georgescu, Bitdefender Country Manager for Romania and the Republic of Moldova

“We were asked by the Rector of the University of Bucharest to bring our Master of Business Administration degree to Romania. It was an opportunity to help develop Western business education in Eastern Europe. My colleagues and I were delighted to have a chance to teach our program in an international setting. Over the two-plus decades, it has become a true labor of love for many of us and we will always cherish the students who now are and those who will become the business leaders in their country.”

-Dr. John Millar, Emeritus Professor of International Management, Dean Emeritus supports visiting American instructors as they adjust to life abroad and become the best mentors possible for their students.

"Being that it was a degree track in global leadership and change, many cultures were represented within my cohort," she began. "Not only did this enrich the discussions we had, but we learned from each other. Being able to approach the learning and assignments through different cultural lenses was an asset to us. Now, I know more about how different parts of the world approach business practices. In addition, my research has led me to deeply understand how different cultures relate to artificial intelligence, so I feel more well-rounded as a professional."

Ruxandra, a self-proclaimed science fiction fan, compared the character traits that made her successful in the program to those of a dragon – how appropriate for TU. "When you see them in movies, all dragons are courageous," she began. "While they sometimes find themselves burnt, they always find a way to persevere in spite of it all. I think we could all learn a thing or two from them when it comes to our careers."

25 / INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS

A TICKET TO SUCCESS

HAYLEY COPPOLA ON THE BUSINESS OF ENTERTAINMENT AND A TU EDUCATION

HAYLEY COPPOLA

“Location, location and location” is a humorous old adage typically used to describe the three most important considerations to be had when buying or developing real estate.

Unsurprisingly, it is also something many prospective students consider when searching for their perfect college. The distance from home or whether it’s in a rural versus metropolitan setting are a few of many factors to think on when it comes to the application process.

Being thoughtful about campus location has another benefit as well – one that is often overlooked. A school’s curriculum can be top-notch, but what about its relationships with nearby organizations related to a student’s major?

For Hayley Coppola `15, a former sports management/marketing major and current entertainment executive, this was something she thought about from the start, and her foresight proved quite useful when it came time to begin the job hunt post-graduation.

sector within the world of sports and entertainment,” she began.

“You have to know the right people, and there aren’t that many people to know. Usually, new hires work some jobs that aren’t ideal for a while to gain the experience needed to advance. That’s why I was so grateful to graduate already having a leg-up on my competition. I was also fortunate to have very strong business professors to guide and mentor me even after graduation.

I remember Dr. Bonnie Tiell and Dr. Kellie McGilvray were especially helpful in this regard.”

According to Hayley, the TU sports management and marketing curricula were comprehensive, giving her a solid foundation of relevant industry and general knowledge from which she still benefits.

“In addition to helping me better understand my division of the business world, the coursework also honed my acumen for business in general,” she remembered. “At the time, this was especially reassuring to me. You never really know if you’re going to like something until you try it for a while, and I felt more comfortable diving into my current work knowing that I could pivot and try something else under the “Hayley is making big moves in the same umbrella if I needed to. Thankfully, I sports and entertainment industry absolutely love what I do to this day.” and I forsee her career continuing Since joining the TickPick family in 2019, to skyrocket. The Sports Business Hayley has taken her field by storm.

Journal should really consider Thanks to both her and her team’s efforts, adding her name to their list of TickPick’s yearly gross revenue for 2022 voices under 30 who represent was $420 million - more than double that diverse, young and intuitive of 2021. The company is also projected leaders reimagining the industry. to achieve $650 million in sales for 2023.

She is a prime example of what Though Hayley recently accepted a new our students can achieve when position as the Director of Partnerships they attain the right experiences, at Logitix, she attributes much of her make impactful connections and industry knowledge to what she learned carve out their own niche in this through her prior role at TickPick. multi-billion dollar enterprise.”

“

“Think about it – Columbus, Cleveland and Detroit are all within two hours of campus, so many professors knew people connected to places like Progressive Field where the Guardians play or the Schottenstein Center in downtown Columbus. I absolutely took “When looked at from a macro point of advantage of this and even interned with – Dr. Bonnie Tiell, Professor of view, the purpose of my role was to build the Guardians as a student, thanks to the Management and maintain partnerships with clients, opportunities presented by TU’s faculty,” vendors and associates,” Hayley explained. she offered. “Plus, with the University “The micro day-to-day tasks I completed having such strong athletic programs, I was while striving to meet mine and the company’s larger goals able to play soccer all four years. It was a win-win.” looked a bit different on any particular day. For example, they’re currently working with Major League Baseball to become an As the former Senior Manager of Strategic Brand Partnerships at authorized ticket marketplace of the league. So, my final days TickPick, an online sports and entertainment ticket marketplace, with them were filled with strategic planning and outreach learning the ins and outs of how sales and marketing is handled to all 30 baseball teams to see who’s interested in exploring for such large-scale events was crucial to Hayley. partnership opportunities.”

“This is a very difficult industry to break into, because it’s a niche DRAGONA TICKET TO SUCCESS / 26

“

“Hayley was a great student. She was a leader in the classroom and on the soccer field, so it is only fitting that she’s continued her success in the sports and entertainment industry. She has a competitive edge that is backed by great leadership skills and was always a pleasure to work with and have in class. I also enjoyed it when she would come and chat with me in my office.

She took advantage of every opportunity from TU and it definitely paid off. I am so proud of Hayley and am not surprised that she was given an alumni spotlight story, because she is a great representation of how hard work and success can pay off. Although Hayley hails from Connecticut, she will always be a Tiffin Dragon – one that makes us very proud.”

– Dr. Kellie McGilvray, Assistant Professor of Marketing

According to Hayley, the business model of TickPick serves a real need for consumers that goes unfulfilled with other large-scale vendors.

“The reason the company came to be is that a need existed and still exists for a more user-friendly buying experience,” she explained. “The founders were inspired to build a better mousetrap when they had a bad experience with another player in the space – hidden fees, upcharges and inconsistent pricing. So, they decided to do something about it.”

Hayley went on to explain that this buyer-friendly philosophy is still a driving force behind many of the company’s decisions. One example of this is TickPick’s new price freeze feature, where if a buyer wants to wait and see if a broker will decrease a ticket’s price prior to the event, they can lock in the rate of a ticket in their virtual cart before buying. This way, if its price actually goes up instead of down, they won’t have to pay the higher amount.

When asked if she had any advice for new graduates also looking to differentiate themselves from others in their field, Hayley had this to say.

“Get a LinkedIn profile – seriously,” she said with a laugh.

“I meant what I said earlier – this business is all about who you know and the connections you make. Networking, forming and maintaining relationships is a skill to start learning your freshman year and one to perfect before you leave. Tech is becoming so entwined with our professional world, that working with instead of against it is the only way to stay afloat. Also, take advantage of experiential learning opportunities while you’re in school. Experience is just as important as what you learn in the classroom, and if you graduate with both a degree and some field work under your belt, you’ll stick out from the pack.”

“TickPick launched a subway campaign with their ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ provider and it was my first time seeing the marketing campaign I was a part of put into action.

This was a very big moment for TickPick!” – Hayley Coppola 27 / A TICKET TO SUCCESS

HOMETOWN TIES

JULIE ADKINS’ DRAGON STORY Whether you’re a lifelong local or an outof-towner looking for a fresh start, a Tiffin University education has primed graduates for making impacts time and time again. Many alumni move out of state or even country to chase exciting opportunities, whereas others opt to stay in the Buckeye State and further their careers locally. Either way, alumni leave the institution well equipped to enact change within their circles. For Julie Adkins `87, change certainly did begin at home, as the old saying goes.

Julie graduated from TU with an associate degree. Born and raised in Seneca County, she has served as the County Auditor since 2008 and worked as a Deputy Auditor for nearly 20 years prior. According to Julie, there is no such thing as a normal day in the office.

“The only constant for my line of work is deadlines,” she said with a laugh. “The foremost priority of the Auditor’s Office is to serve the residents of Seneca County to the best of its ability and this looks quite different each day.”

Julie continued this thought, summarizing the primary responsibilities of the Seneca County Auditor and staff.

JULIE ADKINS

“

“Julie is a wonderful example of someone who takes advantage of every opportunity they find and possesses the desire to be and do better. The TU motto is, ‘without risk, there is no gain,’ and Julie Adkins has lived it. It has been my pleasure to work with her as a student, as a member of the Auditor’s office and as the Seneca County Auditor. We are also fellow Kiwanians, and I know from experience that Julie is someone you can count on to be there to help. She is a great credit to our county and our University.”

“First, we act as the paymasters,” she explained. “The Auditor is the Chief Fiscal Officer and serves as the accountant for all financial reporting pertaining to local departments and agencies. I am also the Chief Property Assessor, so my office works with an appraisal company to assign a fair – Dr. John Millar, Emeritus market value to all real-estate property and Professor of International manufactured homes for tax purposes. Finally, Management, Dean Emeritus the Auditor is the sealer and inspector of weights and measures on behalf of the Ohio Department of Agriculture. This role works to protect consumers, as the sealer makes sure the quantity of a product advertised is what the consumer receives. Issuing dog licenses is certainly a fun bonus, but we also sell vendors’ licenses, collect lodging tax when needed and administer various programs to assist homeowners with tax relief.”

Julie was inspired to pursue this line of work through her desire to remain close to her hometown of New Riegel and attributes much of her success in the field to the education she received through TU. By her own account, the degree program allowed her to work and intern with many local professionals and establish some useful connections prior to officially entering the field.

“My mentors at TU taught me something very important. I’ve HOMETOWN TIES / 28

even offered the same piece of advice to my daughter before. Every opportunity presented to you during your professional life – take what you learn through the experience and build on it. Knowledge can always be applied in different ways, and you never know what may come in handy down the road. Use what you learn, no matter what it is, and get better at it every day. Tiffin University was a great facilitator for me in this sense, as I was taught a number of new skills and was given access to the resources I needed to hone them both in the classroom and through internships. This exploration was also encouraged by my teachers, as I’m sure they knew its value.”

When Julie was asked how she felt about working for and giving back to the community that reared her, she had this to say: “When I was elected to my first Seneca County public representative seat some years ago, I ran into an old family friend at the grocery store. They stopped to congratulate me, and I just remember them saying, ‘whatever you do, stay true to your roots.’ I’ve always carried that saying with me. It is my pleasure and privilege to do all I can for the residents of this wonderful community.”

“I’ve always valued the merging of classroom learning with real-life experiences. One is rendered useless without the other, and I greatly appreciate that TU not only recognizes this, but actively structures their coursework around the practice.”

– Ms. Julie Adkins

Outside of work, Julie loves spending time with her husband Rusty and daughter Erica and son-in-law Michael, and was just blessed with her first grandchild, Madison.

In celebration of their 35th wedding anniversary, she and her husband recently took a cruise to the Dominican Republic.

ACADEMIC ASCENSIONS

TIFFIN UNIVERSITY APPOINTS FIVE DEANS

DAN CLARK

STACEY FLOYD

THOMAS MARBEN

Tiffin University is pleased to announce the recent appointment of five academic deans, each of whom is well prepared and excited to further the educational goals of their respective entities.

"I have had the distinct pleasure of working closely with these individuals through their roles as vice provosts and professors and have every confidence they will lead these academic BRAD REES entities with professionalism and expertise. Their proven commitment to the modernization of academic practices will serve them well as they lead two of our newest schools in the proper directions."

- Dr. Peter J. Holbrook, Provost and Chief Academic Officer “I am happy to accept this additional assignment as Dean of the new School of Education and Extended Learning. In my time at Tiffin, I have come to appreciate the advantages and opportunities we enjoy, and I am convinced that institutions like TU are in the best position to lead in this new era of innovation for higher education.” - Dr. Daniel Clark, Founding Dean of the School of Education and Extended Learning "As a long-term advocate for undergraduate education and meeting those students where they are, I look forward to supporting our talented general education faculty in implementing innovative pedagogies to reach our undergrads and give them a firm base for the rest of their education.”

- Dr. Stacey Floyd, Dean of General Education and Teaching Innovation

MARK SABO

"I have always been impressed with the faculty I get to work with in our school. I am proud of the work we've already done together revamping our digital media degree program.

With the addition of multiple professional tracks, particularly a new one in sports media, we'll be able to attract students who can custom-design their studies to prepare them for multiple career paths in multimedia content creation."

- Brad Rees, Founding Dean of the School of Creative and Media Arts

“I have been blessed to be a professor and part of the Tiffin University family since 2014. In my new role as Dean, I am excited to begin work with students, faculty, staff and the administration to strengthen and expand Tiffin University’s commitment to STEM education. Together, we will make a difference in our students’ lives and enhance their skills for success and a fulfilling career in this 21st century.”

- Dr. Mark Sabo, Founding Dean of the School of Science, Technology and Health “Since joining Tiffin University in 2017 I continue to be impressed by the students, faculty, staff and administrators throughout the University. I am very excited to support and serve the University in this new role as the Dean for the School of Business. I look forward to continuing to transform lives through education and helping to form the leaders of tomorrow.”

- Dr. Thomas Marben, Dean of the School of Business 29 / ACADEMIC ASCENSIONS

A LITTLE EXTRA POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE

TU CELEBRATED ITS 135TH COMMENCEMENT Second, he suggested Whenever the Dragon TAKE-HOME GRADUATION DAY STATISTICS the graduates think hard Family sends new  Total graduating students: 709, representing over 20 countries before changing careers graduating classes into  Total participating: 478 or leaving organizations. the world, it is always a  Graduates receiving Ph.D. degrees: five special occasion unlike “I’ve switched  Graduates receiving master’s degrees: 315 (23 from Romania) any other. After all, companies three times  Graduates receiving master’s degrees with distinction (4.0 GPA): 131 what’s not to celebrate? in my life, and all three  Graduates receiving bachelor’s degrees: 389 (16 BBA students from Romania) Every year, the Tiffin of my employers had  Graduates receiving bachelor’s degrees with honors (3.5 GPA or higher): 201 University community their own share of is confident that its problems with which I newest alums will go had to reckon. Had I jumped ship before waiting for the storms forth into the world well-equipped to make positive and substantial to pass, I would have missed some wonderful chances for career changes in their fields – thanks to the full arsenal of skills and development. The temptation will always be there when the knowledge instilled by their mentors. This year however, there was going gets tough, but no organization has completely green grass. extra cause for celebration, as the 2023 commencement also marked Make sure whenever you do choose to leave, that you’re doing so the 135th anniversary of TU’s founding. to advance your career significantly.”

Not only this, but a portion of the ceremony was also dedicated to the recognition of the 20th Master of Business Administration cohort to graduate from TU’s campus in Bucharest, Romania.

The inaugural Romanian Bachelor of Business Administration cohort, as well as its first Doctor of Philosophy graduate, were recognized. Members of the above classes even traveled to Tiffin to receive their degrees in person.

Tiffin University’s 135th Annual Commencement Ceremony began, per tradition, with opening remarks from President Dr. Lillian Schumacher, who not only acknowledged the anniversary, but took time to recognize the graduates and attendees of veteran or active military status. President Schumacher also recognized the Tiffin University Board of Trustees, as well as the TU faculty, staff and student musical ensembles for their individual contributions not only to the event, but for the collective impact they have on the community through their roles.

Mr. Andrew Felter, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, spoke next, both congratulating the graduates and offering insightful words of encouragement.

This year’s keynote speaker, Mr. Richard F. Wallman, was then introduced. Wallman served as the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Honeywell International, Inc. and AlliedSignal, Inc. (prior to its merger with Honeywell) from 1995 to 2003. He has served on the boards of several companies and graduated in 1972 from Vanderbilt University with a Bachelor of Science degree. In 1974, he earned his MBA from the University of Chicago’s Booth Graduate School of Business and began his career with the Ford Motor Company serving in various financial positions. Wallman also served in senior financial positions with IBM and the Chrysler Corporation.

“Now that you’ve graduated, it’s onto the next phase of your lives,” Wallman began, “I’d like to offer you some lessons I’ve learned over the years.”

Wallman gave three main pieces of advice to the new graduates.

First, he recommended they spend their early careers working for seasoned and successful mentors.

“When I was younger, I thought compensation was the most important thing to obtain in a career, but I later realized that learning from smart, successful people is invaluable. The money will always follow when you emulate the behavior of the greats.”

A LITTLE EXTRA POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE / 30

Lastly, Wallman advocated that attendees prioritize self-growth and professional development as a lifelong practice.

“Make sure you’re improving every single year. Listen to constructive feedback when it’s given, and learn from your mistakes. Everybody makes them. When you do, analyze why it happened and eliminate the character trait responsible. Set high standards for yourself, always. Be confident in the education you’ve received from this wonderful institution. Above all else, when you do go on to achieve great things, remember that Tiffin believed in you and laid the foundation for this success. I thank you for your time and attention and wish you the very best. Take some time today and celebrate your accomplishments. You’ve truly earned it.”

After speaking, Wallman was presented with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree, bestowed by Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Peter J. Holbrook and President Schumacher.

Dr. Holbrook went on to address and congratulate the three recipients of TU’s undergraduate achievement awards to graduating seniors: • Student Leadership Award to Sophia Compton. While at TU, Compton participated in intercollegiate athletics, served as a peer mentor, founded a student organization and took advantage of the University’s study abroad program.

• The Scholar Athlete Award to Savanah Richards. Richards spent three years on the varsity basketball team and maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA the entirety of her college career. She has received several athletic-based awards and accolades. Richards is currently finishing her MBA degree as part of TU’s Dual Enrollment BBA-toMBA expedited program.

• The Provost’s Award to Grace Winrod. Winrod graduated with a bachelor’s degree in commercial music and maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout their collegiate journey. While enrolled, Winrod participated in several musical groups and ensembles and completed multiple professional internships. While enrolled, Winrod also worked as a Student Ambassador with the Department of Undergraduate Admissions.

Brenda Collins '08, Chair of the Alumni Association Board, welcomed graduates to the Alumni Association.

31 / A LITTLE EXTRA POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE

DONOR HONOR ROLL Scan the QR code to pledge your support.

Dear Alumni and Friends: Tiffin University is truly grateful for every gift received.

It is time, once again, for us to thank and pay tribute to our donors - to whom we are grateful beyond words.

No matter its size, every gift made to Tiffin University is integral to the institution's continued ability to grow and thrive. When the University succeeds, so do our alums, as the value of a TU degree goes up in time with our reputation!

We will always tout you, your accomplishments and the many ways you enrich our community through your gifts of engagement, time, talent and treasure.

It remains our honor to celebrate your contributions through our Every Alum, Every Year pledge.

It is through the annual Donor Honor Roll that we recognize those who have given Club Level gifts which have supported all areas of the University. We thank all donors for their vital contributions no matter the size and wish to acknowledge individuals and families who have gone above and beyond in service to their fellow Dragons. It is our honor to celebrate these efforts.

For all clubs, membership is determined by gifts made during the previous fiscal year, which is May 1, 2022 through April 30, 2023.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented. Please accept our apology for any errors or omissions. Should you have any corrections or additions to suggest, 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

32 / DONOR ROLL

THE HAZEL FRANKS SOCIETY

Superior Distributing Co., Inc. Kris and Shannon Klepper Michael R. Klepper

TIFFIN SOCIETY DEVELOPER’S CIRCLE

Planned gifts include – but are not limited to – bequests in a will or trust, beneficiary designation of assets, life insurance and charitable gift annuities.

Members of The Hazel Franks Society have designated TU as a beneficiary to 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.

TIFFIN SOCIETY INVESTOR CIRCLE

Anonymous John and Judy Arnold Chris ‘95 and Jennifer Deal Donald Hampton Jr. ‘89, ‘98 Duane E. and Kathleen E. Jebbett Superior Distributing Co., Inc. Kris and Shannon Klepper Michael R. Klepper Little aaangels Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation Jeffrey and Cindy Oravitz Darrell W. ‘77 and Karen Mann

Anonymous Michael J. Arbogast and Rosann M. (Kessler) Arbogast '81, 87, '01 Stephen M. Carrick '09 Jeanette Conley Ian and Sarah B. Day '02 Andrew J. '94 and Leslie Felter Frances A. Fleet Stephan P. and Donna Frank Blythe A. Friedley '69 Michael A. and Nancy Grandillo Gary R. '73, '77, HD '91 and Jane Heminger William F. Hertzer '60 Peter Holbrook and Tom Hoffman Gloria J. Kauffman George J., Jr. and Diane Kidd HD '99 D. Ted '67 and Francine (Janotta) Kuenzli '66 Penny Leighty Mary E. Lewis '86 Paul and Susan Marion John J. and Joyce Millar '96 Donald B. and Theresa A. (Stephens) Nibblett '84 Walter M. and Katharine L. Nutter William T. Patterson Pamela A. Russell '95 P. Leighton Sayers '68 Daryl W. '74 and Mary Ellen Weininger

TIFFIN SOCIETY TRANSFORMATIONAL CIRCLE (Lifetime Giving: $1,000,000 +)

Gary R. ‘73, ‘77, HD’ 91 and Jane Heminger William F. Hertzer ‘60 National Machinery Foundation

TIFFIN SOCIETY AMBASSADOR CIRCLE

(Lifetime Giving: $500,000 - $999,999) Larry and Jeanne Adelsperger Gertrude and Homer Chisholm Clouse Construction Lenny J. ‘74 and Lynn Clouse Brian and Jyl Clouse Allan M. and Loretta J. Kaplan Joseph R. and Diana M. Kirk Anthony J. Paradiso and DeAnn Krauss ‘00 Meshech Frost Charitable Trust Timothy J. and Sandy Paradiso Old Fort Banking Company

(Lifetime Giving: $250,000 - $499,999) Ascendium AVI FoodSystems, Inc. GE Foundation David L. ‘76, HD ‘02* and Patty Hayes Penny L. Leightey Marathon Petroleum Corporation Mercy Health - Tiffin Hospital Bon Secours Walter M. and Katharine L. Nutter P.T. Services Rehabilitation, Inc. The Pruina Corporation Reineke Family Dealerships Dan and Nikki Reineke William Reineke, Jr. ‘92 William F. Reineke, Sr. HD ‘20* Gary E. Robinette ‘72

TIFFIN SOCIETY VISIONARY CIRCLE

(Lifetime Giving: $100,000 - $249,999) ACI Construction Company Richard C. and Sabrina Kirk The Austin E. Knowlton Foundation BAS Broadcasting Cole Family Foundation Charles and Patty Cole Fifth Third Bank France Stone Foundation Robert G. Friedman Foundation The Paul M. and Lucy J. Gillmor Charitable Foundation Donald Hampton Jr. ‘89, ‘98 Michael and Dolores Herbert J. David and Anna-Maria Hertzer Herrick Foundation I Know I Can Duane E. and Kathleen E. Jebbett Claire F. Johansen ‘92, HD ‘18 Kresge Foundation Laminate Technologies, Inc. Fred E. and Kem Zoeller Mary E. Lewis ‘86 John J. and Joyce Millar ‘96 Thomas H. Miller Osceola Foundation, Inc. Robert E. ‘03 and Brandie Petras Raymond M. ‘10, ‘15 and Kristen L. (Ameling) Robinson ‘09, ‘12 Schell Foundation Russell and Marguerite Stephenson Foundation Tiffin Community Foundation Webster Industries, Inc.

TIFFIN SOCIETY LEADERSHIP CIRCLE

($50,000 or more)

Larry and Jeanne Adelsperger The Austin E. Knowlton Foundation AVI FoodSystems, Inc. Mary J. Brakeall ‘59, ‘70* William F. Hertzer ‘60 Joseph R. and Diana M. Kirk Mercy Health - Tiffin Hospital Bon Secours National Machinery Foundation Gary E. Robinette ‘72

($25,000 - $49,999)

TIFFIN SOCIETY TRUSTEE CIRCLE ($10,000 - $24,999)

Jeffrey L. ‘99 and Michelle Beard Cole Family Foundation Charles and Patty Cole CoreWorth Holdings, LLC Andrew J. ‘94 and Leslie Felter Frances A. Fleet Game One ASB Sports Acquistions, Inc. Shelby Haley Claire F. Johansen ‘92, HD ‘18 and Mick L. Pfefferle* Laminate Technologies, Inc. Fred E. and Kem Zoeller Mary E. Lewis ‘86 John J. and Joyce Millar ‘96 Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges Anthony J. Paradiso and DeAnn Krauss ‘00 Timothy J. and Sandy Paradiso Premier Bank Foundation Progressive Managment Consulting Ravi T. Kakarala ‘98 Reineke Family Dealerships Dan and Nikki Reineke William Reineke, Jr. ‘92 William F. Reineke, Sr. HD ‘20* Raymond M. ‘10, ‘15 and Kristen L. (Ameling) Robinson ‘09, ‘12 Mohamed and Hala Salem The Shilling Family Foundation, Inc. A. Gary HD ‘99, and Peggy Shilling Russell and Marguerite Stephenson Foundation Kit J. Tiell ‘08 and Skylar Mettert Stephen E. ‘77 and Marilyn Werling Darren ‘96 and Brandie Williams

TIFFIN SOCIETY FOUNDER’S CIRCLE ($5,000 - $9,999)

Maithri and Robert Baxter Clouse Construction Corp.

Lenny J. ‘74 and Lynn Clouse Brian and Jyl Clouse Chuck and Jenny Clouse Dell, Burtis & Anspach, L.L.P. Paul Burtis and Jane A. Dell Dock’s Beach House Bar & Grille Domino’s Pizza Bry-Pie Inc. Brian and Jennifer Edler Cynthia A. Dunne Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP Michael and Dolores Herbert Lisa Hohman Ann Hunnicutt 33 / DONOR ROLL

Hylant Keller Logistics Group Bryan Keller and Mary Mulvaney Marks John D. and Susan Kinn Carmen A. and Julie R. Mangiola Marathon Petroleum Corporation Employee Gifts George and Diane McCloy The Mennel Milling Company D. Ford and Kate Mennel George ‘83, ‘95 and Sharon A. (Broka) Miller ‘83, ‘98 Ohio Concrete Resurfacing Inc. Bennett J. and Laura Paulus The Pruina Corporation Stephen and Diane Schult Ron M. Jr. ‘96 and Lillian Schumacher Shawn and Stephanie Smith Sam and Gretchen Strausbaugh US Bank Foundation Grants Program Webster Industries and the Webster Foundation Rich and Laurie Anne Zydonik

TIFFIN SOCIETY HERITAGE CIRCLE ($2,500 - $4,999)

ACI Construction Company Richard C. and Sabrina Kirk Devin C. Ambrose ‘16 Mitchell P. and Dawn M. Blonde Buckeye IT Services, LLC Michael A. Bush ‘02 and Anna Soref Jaime D. ‘12, ‘14, ‘21 and Michael Campbell Carter Machine Co., Inc. Annie Carter Juanita Carter Rob and Lynn Detterman ‘19 Wyatt K. Edwards ‘18 Ellucian Company L.P. Rose M. Frick Owen L. Fritz ‘12 Mark T. ‘86 and Connie S. Griffin James R. and Ann Gucker Doug Hiegel Peter Holbrook and Tom Hoffman Danial Jameel JRL Logistics Inc. Andrew H. and Cindy Kalnow Allan M. and Loretta J. Kaplan Lange, Gordon, Rannigan & Klaus LLC Merrill Lynch Bank of America Reneè Meyer Tho H. Nguyen ‘05 Donald B. and Theresa A. (Stephens) Nibblett ‘84 Old Fort Banking Company Paul Cole Motors Susan Payne Quick Tab II, Inc. Charles Daughenbaugh Charles Eingle Stephen L. ‘02 and Diana Ragan Mark and Teresa E. Shafer Paul K. Smith ‘94 The Benevity Community Impact Fund The Huntington National Bank The Paul M. and Lucy J. Gillmor Charitable Foundation Thrivent Financial Chris and Sue Lewis US Bank, NA Kevin VanMeter * Deceased

Robert Walker Weininger Family Dentistry Brandt and Makenzie Weininger Reginald Wilkinson HD ‘20 Aaron G. ‘03 and Amy R. (Bumb) Wood ‘03

TIFFIN SOCIETY PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE ($1,000 - $2,499)

Anonymous Midhat and Leila Abraham Lonny ‘91 and Julie A. Allen ‘08 ARK Realty Carl F. ‘61 and Theresa M. Arnold James Aslinger, Jr. ‘93 Assured Title Agency Elizabeth Athaide-Victor Bair Brothers Sporting Goods Daniel L. and Mary Barbee Michael S. ‘07, ‘14 and Carrie Barr ‘21 Asish and Basanti Basu Jonathan W. Beard Dan Beck John and Libby Belden Best Break Jason W. and Dawn M. Tyree David J. Boyd Bridget E. Boyle ‘14 Rudy ‘96 and Brittany M. (Davidson) Brownell ‘16 Ann Brundage ‘05 and Maureen Barry Rhys D. J. ‘11 and Victoria Cannella Stephen M. Carrick ‘09 Brandon and Callie M. (Dewald) Cessna ‘12 Lynn (Roeder) Child ‘73 Daniel and Kim Clark Richard H. III ‘02 and Brenda S. (Holtrey) Collins ‘08 Crown Battery Jeremy and Meladie Croy Thomas and Jonnie Debbink Robert J. Dornauer DDS, Inc. Dr. Robert and Angelyn Dornauer Bill and Elizabeth Dowdy Dan ‘07 and Elizabeth Dower Brook and Luann Edwards Andrew R. ‘03, ‘06 and Andrea D. (Howse) Faber ‘04, ‘06 Bart M. ‘04 and Bianka Fisher Follett Higher Education Group, Inc. Dennis E. ‘68 and Gail C.(Kraft) Foos ‘68 Stephan P. and Donna Frank Jamie S. CPA ‘98 and Lynette L. (Christianer) Fridley ‘97 Blythe A. Friedley ‘69 Donna HD ‘18 and Donnie Graves Jack W. Greene ‘64 Perry and Meg Haan Jim L. Hammond Angela (Martorana) Harrison ‘04 David L. ‘76, HD ‘02* and Patty Hayes Michael Herdlick Calvin J. ‘05 and Diane Higgins Inspire Brands Foundation Inc. Donna A. HD ‘05 and Larry H. James JD Alarm Systems, Inc. Jeff and Carrie Dilley L. F. Johnson ‘00 Charles and Kerry L. Jones Kevin Kean KGS Ohio, LLC John K. Krupp ‘72, ‘76 D. Ted ‘67 and Francine (Janotta) Kuenzli ‘66

David L. Kuhl Lardon & Associates LLC Kevin and Nadia Lewis Library Services and Technology Act Grant (LSTA) loanDepot Brian P. Bower ‘96 Ronald and Patricia Lonzo Ron and Sharon A. (Foss) Lucas ‘66 Craig and Ellen Lucius Madison Street Pub & Grub Christopher L. ‘03 and Heather Chase Thomas R. and Elizabeth Marben Marco’s Pizza Jacole M. Miller ‘10 Jeremy J. ‘02 and Jamie L. Marinis Paul and Susan Marion Daniel and Laura A. Mays Timothy McCarty Brandon and Kellie C. (Jakubowski) McGilvray ‘99 In honor of Jeff Knedler Shannon McKeehen Steven B. ‘81 and Suzanne M. Micheli Steve and Corri Miller Wendy S. (Russell) Miller ‘90 Riley P. ‘10 and Emily Morman Northwestern Mutual Life Foundation, Inc Randy O’Keefe ‘11 Jon and Amber D. (Metzgar) Oleksyk ‘07 Shane Parendo Curtis L. ‘71 and Doreen J. Peterson Robert E. ‘03 and Brandie Petras Anthony M. ‘94 and Kelly Petrosino Pioneer Mill Scott T. Lyons Adam Polzin Premier Bank Kenneth Rauch Nicholas Reinhard Michael ‘76, ‘77 and Sue A. Reser ‘92, ‘10 Linda S. Ritzler CPA Inc. Robert C. ‘77 and Linda S. (Doepker) Ritzler ‘77 Andrew and Kate E. Ro, JD ‘00 Ralph B. ‘15 and Katherine E. (Gerhardt) Robinson ‘14 Rob Rose Donald G. Sabato ‘67 P. Leighton Sayers ‘68 Matthew N. ‘07 and Amber M. (Wetherill) Schwartz ‘09 Jay T. Sharrock ‘89 Ty R. ‘00 and Jodi Shaull Benjamin Shuff Jon and Karen Snyder Mark S. and Amy J. Somodi Brandon Stock James C. and Ellie Streacker Terry D. and Sherry Sullivan Sutton Bank Gregory ‘87 and Bonnie Tiell Tiffin Community Foundation Anthony L. ‘02 and Liz Trevino James M. ‘97 and Karri Walker Daryl W. ‘74 and Mary Ellen Weininger Joel V. ‘10 and Kristyn E. (Tooley) Wilkins ‘09 Joseph ‘07 and Victoria M.(Galaska) Wilkins ‘09, ‘11 Michael W. Jr. ‘91 and Michelle K. (Perry) Wisnor ‘93 Wyandot Memorial Hospital DONOR ROLL / 34

Michael Yochum Your Legacy Federal Credit Union

TIFFIN SOCIETY YOUNG ALUMNI

(within 9 years of graduation, $100 first year, $200 second year, etc) Briana Balliett '22 Chadd M. '16 and Victoria G. (Woods) Clifford '17 Jenipher Coppin '14, '22 David Farler '13, '21 Britton L. Hensel '20 John A. Hunt '20 Rebecca Iten '17 Rebecca Kielbasa '21 Chris T. and Mikki R. King '20 Cameron P. McCloskey '20, '22 Bryce Riggs '20 Jeremy and Deborah Roszman '21 Nicholas E. Runco '21, '22 Madison M. Wells '20

TORCH CLUB ($500 - $999)

AbbVie David T. ‘05 and Rebecca A. (Albert) Abraham ‘00, ‘11 Leslie Arias Kevin F. ‘10 and Jillian L. (Holland) Arnold ‘02 Randy A. Aube ‘82 B & B Foodmart Chuck Baker BD Diesel & Auto, LLC Jeff Bellinger Dawn Bolejack Brandon Boro Harry L. Burd ‘63 Parris ‘08 and Wynter D. (Toland) Burt ‘07 Frank Carrasquillo Bryan Cassley Kevin Christman ‘15 David J. and Shelley Claus Coppus Motors, Inc. John Jr. and Jennifer Coppus Lisa Dietrick Eamonn B. Dooley ‘06 Eastman & Smith LTD. Alix Engle Entrepreneurial Ventures, Inc Financial Design Agency of Ohio, Inc. Aaron M. and Donene Smith First National Bank of Sycamore James and Karrie Gibbons Rhonda C. Gilreath ‘91 Shane and Gabrielle Gleeson Brian Groch David Haubert Hayfield Family Restaurant Jon A. ‘09 and Erika Hemmelgam John Hoffman John and Kay Hoppers Luke Humbard JKD Rentals, LLC Dean A. ‘69 and Jane Johnston Brent Johnston Tracie Johnston Carina Jones Kristy Kennedy Ken Kepling KeyBank Foundation David and JoAnn King ‘99 Carol Kinslow John T. Kleinoeder Lothar and Rose Krueger

Kimberly A. Lawson ‘03 Deborah Legg Joseph L. ‘06 and Jeni Liszak Joseph and Amy Mahler Krista Maling Patrick McLeod Cindy Monroe Chari S. Mullen ‘06 Mark V. ‘99 and Karen Pardi Jason Parkins William T. Patterson Ross Paulson Beth Pepper Bryan Price Weston Reinbolt and Suzie Reineke-Reinbolt Todd Rich Rightemp Home Services Inc. Ernest and Mary Runco John Schnieder Marta Sealy Steven E. Seasly Jeffrey A. ‘13 and Lennice J. Smith Stephen Spencer Ron ‘67 and Karen J. Stiltner Chase Swanson John Tenerowicz The Columbus Foundation Ronald L. Thompson ‘65 David Tomko USI American Insurance Administrators, Inc. Charles D. ‘76 and Beverly J. Walton Paul ‘72 and Joyce Weaver Joseph W. ‘01 and Melissa Weininger Wendy’s Steven and Susan Wyse

GREEN AND GOLD CLUB ($250 - $499)

ABC Supply James Adleta Jill M. Aldrich ‘15 Bill and Deanna Andamasaris Brooks M. Arbogast ‘12 Dave Arledge Chelsea E. Bass ‘15 Javier Bastidas John M. and Pamela Beall Joshua and Leanne M. (Lucius) Benson ‘09 James Bergman BHC Environmental, LLC Rich Black Kenneth A. Boarman ‘13 Jason E. ‘18 and Teresa Bock Kerry Boehm Paul Boehm Douglas B. and Beth A. Bonnoront Bradley R. and Theresa J. Borer Joanne L. Bower ‘87 Brause Farms, Inc. Lisa Brooks Darlene Brown Jeanelle Bryan Greg Burke Jeff Cain John Campbell Erik Carlson Denita J. Carter Brent Celek Thomas and Jennifer Church Giselle Cieza Arnie Cisneros Lewis Compton Lila M. ‘11 and Philip T. Conley ‘08, ‘09 Amy Craig Erin Craver-Dean

William P. ‘66* and Janis L. Crohen Denise Crowe Peter Curtice Matt ‘97 and Amanda Dasher I’Keriah Day Laura DeBastos Sarah T. DePugh ‘07 Craig J. Derr ‘96 and Hettie Serdyn-Derr Jess Drange Andrea C. Draper ‘09, ‘14 Marilynn Dunn Gary Dvorak Liza Empederado Daniel M. Enos ‘13 Patricia Fairbrother Hunter Feltner Mark Feury Eddie Florence Stacey Floyd Frameworks L.L.C. Angela Fulton Michael Gadson Ben Gillig Richard A. and Carol Goeb John V. Gonya ‘63 Dale Graham Kevin L. Grimes ‘01 Annette Haberkamp Dean J. Hall and Joyce Hall-Yates Beau Harvey Tom Headrick Shanel Henry Chris and Amila Herbert Hoffman-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home Frances W. (Myers) Holm ‘69 Andrew Homan Andrew Hormell Owen and Laura Hoskins Mary Hubert Jerry E. Hutter ‘64 Lisa Jasin Mark Jenkins Joanne L. Bower CPA, Inc. Willie Jones Timothy Jordan Randy ‘93 and Heather Joseph J’s Painting & Wallpapering Jen Loudenslager Michael J. ‘94 and Christine A. Kaucher Travis O. and Candace M. Kimmel Lisa Kin Michael King Manda Kinslow Jillynda A. Kirian Shirley Klopp John Kobelt Brenda Kottinger Michael Kottinger Clint Kubach Kevin LaCombe Bruce and Doris M. Lambert ‘94 John H. ‘12 and Bethany L. Leary ‘15 Ali Lukungu ‘03, ‘05 James S. ‘59 and Carolyn Mackey Kris Mailey Mary Marinelli-Beltz Anjanette Mayberry Matthew D. and Andrea McCabe Ryan and Natalie McClain Devon Mezinger Chris Miliano Roger R. ‘85 and Kindar C. Miller David W. Miller Gregg Morris Christopher D. and Denice L. (Coppler) Myers ‘93 Matthew Neubeck

Jennifer Newman Karl Newman Jennifer R. Nodine ‘07 William Orr Norma Parker Aaron Parsons Jenn Patrick Paul L. ‘03 and April Pellegrini Chris and Jessica (Schult) Phillips ‘07 Brian ‘11 and Nicole Pointer Serray Powell Christopher Preslock ‘93 Irma M. (Scagnetti) Ramsey ‘59 Christopher Randall Ross Randolph Dale Rathbun Jeffery Ray Amy Reginek Thad and Lisa Reinhard Keith M. Reiter ‘09 Greg ‘91 and Jodi Richards Scott and Tangi Ritchie ‘16 Todd A. R. Robinson ‘01 Schiefer Insurance Services, LLC Jesse N. Schrader ‘02, ‘04 and Lori L. (Welch) Schrader ‘02 Jon Schultz Walter Schweitzer Wayne Sexton David R., Sr. and Martha G. Siler Jacob A. Simon ‘13 Slick Rollers LLX Sean Snyder Janette Stangelo Evan Starkweather Louis Stevens Maria Szarek Bradford Tanner ‘96 Jim E. ‘59 and Sharon L. Thomas Judy Thomaswick Loida Tiamzon Tyler Tobyne Denise Truso Eyan Underwood US Bank Foundation Employee Matching Gift Program Pam Voisard George L. Wagner ‘66 Schuyler J. Wagner ‘19 John A. and Shelley Wank Dale Wasem William R. ‘98 and Ann V. Waters ‘98 Jerry Weininger Merris A. Jr. ‘55 and Jean Welge Tim Welsh Mark T. Widman ‘84 Dan J. Wirtz ‘06 Nathan Wurst Welma York Ali I. Yurekli Janitsy Zambrana Gordon Zellner Michelle Zerbe Roy S. and Barbara (Keith) Zinn ‘92 Brett Zoroya

DRAGON'S CLUB ($100 - $249)

Scot Acree Sherri Adachi John Adams Steve Adelman Emmanuel K. Adjei ‘15 Rugen Alda Rich Aldridge Susan Aldridge Greg Alejandro Jenavi Alejandro Mary K. Allday

Christopher T. and Kristin M. (Forbes, Galownia) Allen ‘04 Ryan and Holly A. Allgood ‘19 Tracy L. Almanson Murphy ‘90 Tyler J. and Heidi A. (Kiesel) Alt ‘11 Amazon.com, Inc. Angelo Amenta Gregory Ancewicz Mike Anderson David Anderson Anonymous Anything Homes LLC Edward Arango Elise Archual Dan Armijo Craig Armstrong Ikhlas Asadi Cameron Ashley Andrea Bach Richard and Barbara Badgett Catherine Baird Justin ‘08 and Amanda Baker Zachary J. Ball ‘08, ‘10 Shannon Ball Thomas Barnett Jean Basile Susan Batesole Melissa Battiste John Belson Justine Bennett Brian Berg Mike and Annie Bergeron Alexis A. Berg-Townsend ‘03 Keith V. and Nancy C. Berlan Berrien Community Foundation Shorty Berry Ryan Beswick Rachel Bilczo William E. Jr. ‘65 and Donna L. Biller Pam Billmaier Richard Birkin ‘97 ZoAnn Bishop Wilma J. Bishop Ansella Bitter Sherri Bitter Ronda R. Blaney ‘05 Robert A. Blickenstaff ‘69 Kevin Bohn Andrew Bolinger Nicholas Bollinger ‘21 Bella Bond Michelle Bosco Mike Boswell Jay Bosworth Scott Bourquin Myriam Boutarfa Rich Bradbury Marcia Braun Cal Brazier Sr. Tammy Brazier Joshua M. Brians ‘03 Ta-Nika Brinson Robert Britton Scott and Olivia M. (Frantz) Brooks ‘13 Fran Brown Howard and Kay Brown Tamara Bryan Randy L. ‘94 and Julie A. Buck Oliver Buck Dana Buirch Curt Bumb ‘11 Aaron V. Burton and Jennifer Watson David Bush Nickie Bush Audrey Cahill Jesse Calcei Denise Cameron Felecia Cameron Zachary J. Campbell ‘21 Sarah Campbell

Joseph M. Candito ‘12, ‘13 Edward Canterberry Rob Carlson Pam Carlson Jennifer Carmack Robert Carnevale Kimberly Carpenter Nick Carraher Carol Carraher Luciano Carrasquillo Mary Jo (Weaver) Carroccio ‘63 Mark Carroll Shawn and Staci Carter Mike Carter Carolyn Cartwright Kevin and Julie Cashen Gerry Castro John ‘89 and Kelly (Kirkhart) Cavanagh ‘88 Adonia Chadwell Chuck Chafin Erica Chambers Dawn Chappuies Aaron Cheney Cindy Cherpeski MC Insurance Svc, LLC Mike and Kelly Cholodewitsch Elliott Cichon Butch Clark Elwood Clark Charles Clayton Elizabeth Clear Nancy A. Cochran ‘90 Gary L. ‘78, ‘81, ‘92 and Charlotte Cole Brian Cole Brema C. (Konst) Colvin ‘51 Janis L. Comstock-Jones ‘07 Michael and Diana Conant Robert Conklin Shane Conley Deb Connell Wendy Conti Kellie Cook Wes Cook Kevin and Mary Cooney Vicki Cordle Allen K. ‘60 and Elaine M. Corfman Gene L. Corfman ‘60 Valerie Costello Galen and Stacy Cox Rock L. ‘83 and Tina Craft Andrew Craig Corey Crawford Jason Crawford Sandy Crocker John Cronin Pat Cronin Brian Crosier Charles Crowther Brandon Cullen Gale E. ‘91 and Kimberly Cunningham Rodney M. ‘03 and Kelly A. (Dick) Daniel ‘95 Deborah Dautrich Meerim Davis Bill Dean Scott Dean Brandi Deardorff Jason Dearmon James M. ‘73 and Marilyn Deats Lois Deitschel Pam Deitschel Mark Del Monaco Steve Devilbiss Heather Dewitz Valentina D. C. Diaz ‘16 James Dickman Gary Dickson Dave Dinnen Wesley M. Dodsworth * Deceased

35 / DONOR ROLL

Gaël Dolle Daniel J. Donnelly ‘21 Sandra Dow Lisa M. (Momenee) Draves ‘13 Patricia Drum Christopher Duda ‘17 Stephanie Duling Robin K. Dunlap Joseph E. and Linda Duprey-Ferguson ‘71 Tristen M. Durr Pete Effinger Charles and Lacy K. (Cherry) Ellis ‘06, ‘07 Kelly Emery Chris Engle J. Phil Engle Michael Engoian Josh Epperson Daniel J. ‘88 and Peggy L. Ewald ‘92 Kip McWilliams and Melissa M. Fadley-McWilliams ‘00 Joseph Fahnbulleh Erin Fairbrother Tabatha Fairchild John Falatko Alfred H. Jr. ‘72 and Sherry L. Falter Robert and Mary Fankhauser Christine Farr Kevin Fawley Jeff A. ‘11 and Elizabeth Feasel Richard and Jan Feasel Donna Fecto Mike Feldkamp Noah Feltner Marc Ferguson Jay Feuerstein ‘15 Brent and Deb Fisher Charlie Flechtner Arnold Flournoy David Flynn Matthew Flynn Becky Fojaco Brent Foos Janet Foote Frances Ford Mary Ford Briony Foreman Angela Forsee Jeffrey Forsyth Dale T. Fortney ‘95 Chris Fortune Todd Foster Thomas Fouche Amy Fought Ashley Franklin ‘21 Jenny Franta Patricia Freund Robert Freund Christine Fries Jared Friesner Justin Friesner James Fulton Thomas G. ‘69 and Joan L. Funkhouser Jill Gabel Stacey Gabriel Venkataramana and Redhika Gajjala Duane R. Gamble ‘03 Terry Gardiner Lisa Garrett Pamela Gary Andre Gault Aaron L. George ‘19 Dave George Sky Gettys Sushmita Ghosh and Nabarun Ghosh Eric Gibson Wede Gibson Kelly L. Giebel Stocker ‘89 Carol Giessler

Kristen Gill Ryan Gillespie Jada R. Gilliam ‘19, ‘20 Rick Goings Christopher M. ‘08 and Erin Gomez James Gonzalez Victor Gonzalez Marsay Goodridge Matthew R. Gorman ‘07, ‘10 Keith Grabowski Kenneth Grabowski Michael A. and Nancy Grandillo Gary Gray Great Lakes Entrepreneurship Center Troy and Emily L. (Gillock) Green ‘04 Marie Gregg Blake Gross Joan Groth Beth Guggenbiller Sandra Gundler Brisbon Gwen Guenther Haeusser Jennifer Hagan Breece Hall Rebecca Hall Robert Hall Melissa Hambrook Sheryl Hamilton Pauline Hammel David M. Hammond ‘16 Darcy Hammond Nicholas Hankins Aaron Hanners Stacey Hardy Chris Harkness Susan Harman Glen D. Harris Miller Trevor Hartless Stephen H. ‘65 and Marylynn (Wood) Hartsel ‘68 John Hatfield Mary Hatfield Bonita Haubert John D. ‘72 and Bobbye J. Haughawout Jacquie Hauser Travis Hearn Robin Heater Cherie Hefner Mike Hennessey Erica L. Henry ‘00, ‘02 Hensel Ready Mix, Inc. Rodney and Linda I. (Young) Hensel ‘79 Timothy A. Heppner Sr. ‘68 Michael Herner Tim Hess Cortland N. Heykoop ‘58* Joy Hinkel Rich Hitlan Jennifer Hoeller David Hoelscher Kathleen Hoelscher Tiffany Hoelscher Jason E. Hoeltge ‘98 Todd Hoepf Jeff Hoffman Stephen Hoffman John and Valerie A. (Blankenship) Hohman ‘82 Jake Holmes Leigh Holtz Blaise and Shana Holzer Matthew J. ‘95 and Julie Hoover Michelle Horn Sandra Horrigan Margaret House Kristy Howar John Howard Michael Howard Scott Howell DONOR ROLL / 36

Scott Hubert Nancy Hughes Amanda Hummel TJ Hunt Shauna R. Hurles ‘16 Leroy Hurt Steven D. and Cathy Hurwitz Mark Huston Ian Hutchens J. Hutching Kimberly Hutchins Mary E. Huth Gregory Huzicka Ernest Hyatt Korab Imami ‘15 Robert Infiesta Charles Jackson Kem Jackson Timothy Jarvis Matthew M. ‘07 and Chantelle Jennings Mattias Johansson Chaderick ‘08 and Bridgett M. (Kolbow) Johnson ‘10 Bill Johnson Charley H. Johnson Bridget Jones Charles Jones Randy and Mavis Jones Howard E. ‘14 and Ellen F. Jordan Bryan Joseph Kathleen Judy Jennifer Juhasz David A. and Beth A. (Omlor) Kagy ‘93 Carl F. and Kris Kalnow Elizabeth Kaplan Jen Kay Dennis Kear ‘64, ‘72 and Connie J. Kear Gary and Marty (Wagner) Keck ‘70 Rose Keesey Amber M. Kempton ‘01 Julia Kenendy Carlin A. Kern ‘16 Farshad Keyghobadi Kip and Rhonda Kieffer Andrea King Michael C. Kirchner ‘77 Ryan Kirkpatrick Tony Klein Richard and Carol J. Kline ‘12 Diane M. (Frederick) Klopfenstein ‘82 and Kraig T. Klopfenstein Jason M. and Elizabeth W. (Wead) Knackstedt ‘0 Kiyotaka ‘82 and Ann M. (Eaton) Kobayashi ‘85 Matt Kochheiser Lee J. and Sandra K. Koehler Julie Koesters Mary Kreibich Wayne Kreis ‘19, ‘21 Katherine Krejci Jordan Kremm Paul Krempasky Deanna Kreski Robert E. Krupp ‘99 Robert E. ‘99 and Rebecca S. (Hopple) Krupp ‘91 Lori Kryder Katy Kudlapur Garrett Kuppler Jackie Kuppler Cyprus Kyriakou Luba M. Ladoszka Tracey Lane John W. ‘69 and Alison S. (Birkholtz) Lauer ‘67* Lila LaVigne Thomas LaVigne

Fang-Mei Law Darin M. ‘00 and Misty C. (Webb) Lawrence ‘02 Kathleen M. Lawry ‘03 Lenore Leadingham Perry Lease William and Emily Lennig Katie Lennig Brian Lewis Charles Lewis Jr Lisa Lieske Ellen Lightfoot Carter Lindhorst John and Cynthia S. Little ‘11 LMN Dev SPE LLC Joelle M. Lofaso ‘14 Rafael Lopez Kimberly Lordo Michael E. ‘06 and Devon K. (Pearson) Lossick ‘05 Alexandra Lucak Cleo Lucas Staci L. Ludwig ‘18 John J. Lundin ‘71 Erin Lynch Paula Maas Mike Mackovjak Paula Mackovjak Joseph A. Mahan ‘08 Judy Mahl Glen M. Maiden ‘01 Justin Mailey Laura Mailey Kathy Makrancy Stanley E. ‘70 and Carol G. (Bockbrader) Manbeck ‘67 Carol Mandel Alexandra Manfredo Ken and Brenda Mansor Eric and Jennifer Mansor Frank A. Marchetti ‘70 and Wendy L. Worringer Edward Marinac William Marley Jennifer Marsman Kathy Marsman Ashley Mason Ed and Barb Mason Josh Mason Charles ‘11 and Mary Massi Michelle C. Maus Duncan McCarthy Haley McClain Jodi McClain Anthony McComb Cathlina McCormick Daryl M. and Patricia A. McDonald Aileen McDonald Jeff McEvoy Jennifer McFadden Brent McMenemy Michelle D. Meek ‘01 Tiffany Meidinger Nikolaus and MaryEllen E. (Hecker) Melcher ‘02 Wendy Melcher Jeff M. ‘01 and Cheryl A. Merkle Keith Merritt Balaguel Mevoicy Vixianne Mevoicy Thomas Meyer Michael Michalak Carrie Miklovich Tom R. and Nadine A. (Ruth) Miller ‘89 Tami Miller Elijah Miller Derek Miller Devin Miller Harry Miller Amy Mills

Sarah Minneman Brenda R. Mitchell Robert Mitchell Andy Modd Amanda Moeglin Mike Moeller Austin J. Mohamedali ‘21 Edward Moon Doug Moore Jen Morgan Amy Morlock Tamara A. (Audritsh) Morris ‘77 Tonya Mortimer Steven Morton Alex Mossing Joyce Mount Jake Mullet David G. ‘67 and Margaret Murray Roger A. and Susan K. Murray ‘88 Lauren Myers Franklin Myrthil Ted Nagel Daisy Nasrin Luann Navarre Robert Nelson Amanda Nelson Philip Nixon Raymond Nixon Jim Noall Carlos Nolan Ewen North John Novak Darin Nye Rebecca Oberholtzer Bridget (Brassell) O’Dell ‘11 Shane K. ‘13 and Dinelle O’Donnell Linda Olson Rich Olson Jared W. Orskog ‘20 Cory J. Osborne ‘13 Keith Ott Outdoor Home Solutions Daniel Overman Ralph Owens Stephanie Owens Sarah Panter Ami Paolello Chad Papai Mackenzie Paratore Bobby Parish Zach Parris Drew and Beth Patton Charles Pennell Charlotte Penwell Giuseppe A. Penzone ‘18 Robert Pergram Judi Peterhansen Todd Peterkoski Daniel and Heather Peterson Ernie Petri Lucas S. Phillips Barbara Phillips Dan Picciuto Bill Pickett Dane Pitchford Ryan C. and Lori S. Planchon ‘09 Margaret Pleiman Edward Poa Jacob Poe William Polinski Jim PowPow Jason Pramik Christian Price William and Charlene M. Prochazka ‘03 Jill Prohaska Jack Quisno Mary Rabquer Brad and Kim Radison Arlene Rahm-Scherf Cathy Ramstetter

Ashley Rathbun Catherine F. Rathburn ‘91 Bianca Rau Steven A. Rau John Ray Sandra Ray Allison L. Rees Bradley A. Rees Paula Reinhart Tawnya Reinhart Doug Reiter Susan Reiter Traci Rennie Anthony ‘92 and Kathleen A. Reser Thomas Reser Anthony Blake Rhoades ‘17 Andrew and Krista L. (Sowers) Rice ‘09 Jeff Kuhn and Sharon Rigby Carolyn Kay Riggle Robert Ringhiser Joan Rinker-Kisling ‘70 Angela Robbins Dale and Debbie Robbins Dan Roberts Dorothy L. (Tuck) Robey ‘49 Amber Robinson Valerie Rochow Bailey Rodkey Kelly Roesch Dick and Sharon Roethlisberger Ellen Rohrbacher John M. ‘98 and Jessica Romich David Rosen Michael A. Ross ‘21 Chad Rothermel Chris Rowland Rhonda Rowland Betty Ruckes Darin Rupert Pamela A. Russell ‘95 Mark and Jannie Sabo Mr. Eugene L. Sager Gloria Sampson Elizabeth Sanchez Audrey Sanzone Gretchen Sanzone Scott W. Saracusa ‘04, ‘08 Stacey Schaal Stephen Schaefer Nicholas and Pamela J. (Fox) Schalk ‘01 Duane A. and Ann R. Schank Dee Schendel Thomas D. Scherf ‘92 Schirack Small Engine Repair Mark and Jo E. Sciulli ‘03 Tom Scott Emily Scrimshaw ‘16 David J. Selnick Charles A. Semones ‘16 Roy Session John Settlage Richard A. ‘67, ‘79 and Sharon A. Shaffer Johnathon M. Sharp ‘08 Hallie Sheehan Mark Sheidler Patrick F. Sheils ‘19 Steven T. ‘80 and Elizabeth A. Shelt Sherwin Williams Corporate Office Rene’ Shier Sitawi Pauline and John Shore Sharon Shoults Mark Skeldon Michael D. Skelly ‘13 Ashley Slagle Melissa Slusher Osadolor Smart ‘14 Linda Smith Larry R. Smith ‘02

Chad F. ‘07 and Cheyenne Smith James A. ‘76 and Deborah L. (Walliser) Smith ‘79 Michael Smith Norman Smith Robert Smith Mark Soeder Joe and Nancy M. (Lamuth) Soehnlen ‘05 Janet Sopczynski Alejandra C. Sosa Pieroni ‘05 David B. Sowers Gregory Sparks ‘10 Berthalee Sparks Jackie Speckman Jeanne Spencer Dallas Spivey Charles Sprague Dawn Spurlock Derek A. Stanley ‘99 Lisa Stanley State Farm Companies Foundation Chad Stein Rocco D. Stella ‘08 Jody Stewart Lashica Stewart Ronda Stewart Sandy Stewart Kyle E. ‘98 and Brandi C. Stiltner Jennifer Stock Larry Stock Connor T. Stocker ‘19 Dolores Stornelli Angie Stotler Justin Stotler Kristian M. Strauss ‘18 Anthony Stross Brian Stuckey Cheryl Stull Daniel Sutherby Christian Svendsen Jayson Swigart Ian Talbot Gilbert Tapia Melvin Taylor Michelle Taylor Mark Teeple Kenneth C. ‘97 and Jennifer L. Tener Kim Tenerowicz Jamie Terry Robert M. and L. F. Teunion Danielle Teunion-Smith Ken and Michele Thamann Mark L. Thomas ‘06 Adam Thurn Kandy Thurn Taryn Tietjen Tiffin Great Lakes Ace Hardware Andrew Tojek Tiffany Tom Stephen R. Torain Rita Tozzie Dan Trace Cindi Treher Bonnie L. Troupe Joan Truso Craig Trychel John Updike Robert C. ‘08 and Vicki L. Uppenkamp Christine Urban Kim Urban Calin Tudor Vadana ‘16 Steven VanMeter Vincent V. Vasilevski Walter A. and Kathy Verdon Viewpoint Graphics Wendy Wagar Bill Wagner Dana Wagner Jaime Wagner 37 / DONOR ROLL

Randy and Melissa K. Waire Angela Wallace Amber J. Walton ‘16 Stephanie Ward Greg Waser and Cristal A. (Lemmon) Waser ‘81, ‘87, ‘07 Jim Watts Jean L. and Thomas D. Weaver Jeremiah Webber Alexander Weber Chester Webster Charles Wentz Daniel Werner Sara West Robert A. West Jr. Robert A. West Sr. Joey Whalen Nicholas R. Wheeler ‘19, ‘20 James Whitmire Lisa Wholley Erin Widmayer John Widmayer Bruce C. Wilcox ‘85 Kathy Wilkins Norma Will Kyla Williams Josh Williams Kesshem Williams Lori Williams Sharon Williams Tamekia Williams Steve Wilson James C. and Bernadette Wilson Brett Wingart Jane Wise Herbert J. Wise ‘72 Vanessa Woods Sharon Wormington John U. ‘79 and Bernadette Wurm Ryan and Caitlyn G. (Bass) Wysowaty ‘17 Bridget Yingst Mark Yingst Paul Yingst Jennifer Yoder Andrea Young Ricardo Zambrana Joe and Laura Zaubi Christian and Tara Zbin Erin Zeigler Leann Zimmerman Yarone Zober Edward Zupko Sr. Ed Zylka

IN MEMORY OF: Fuzz Filliater by: William F. Hertzer '60 Dave Mitchell by: Berrien Community Foundation Glenn Youngstedt Kevin and Mary Cooney Mark Brown Robert Hall Mick Pfefferle by: William F. Hertzer '60 Bill Reineke Sr. by: William F. Hertzer '60 Ron Schumacher Sr. by: Mitchell P. and Dawn M. Blonde William F. Hertzer '60

* Deceased

CLASS SCENE

The Class Scene section of this publication was created with the significant help of TU student Samantha Sibbersen, Social Media Ambassador.

Trevor Hug, Class of 2008, MEd 2017 Trevor Hug recently began a position with Brown and Brown Insurance as a Software Administration Specialist. He graduated from TU with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in computer information technology. He received his Master of Humanities degree in education with a concentration in educational technology management from TU in 2017.

1970s Cynthia Janowski, Class of 1977 Cynthia Janowski recently took an oath of office to become the Clerk of Northville Township, a community of nearly 32,000 residents in Southeastern Michigan.

2010s Rev. Keith Lawrence Collins, Class of 2010 Keith Lawrence Collins recently retired from 30 years in law enforcement. He has also been the recipient of many accolades, including being elected to the USA Karate Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Martial Arts Hall of Fame and the International Martial Arts Hall of Honor.

2000s Lee J. Pozek, Class of 2001 Lee Pozek recently switched fields and took a position with Harvest of Ohio as a Senior Sales and Purchasing Manager.

The company is a startup but growing quickly in an emerging field.

Chari Mullen, Class of 2006, MBA 2010 On March 21, the Vanguard Sentinel Career and Technology Centers announced that Chari Mullen is the newest member of the Vanguard Tech Center Hall of Fame. Mullen has been the inaugural Diversity and Inclusion Director for the City of Fremont since 2020. Her personal motto is “Trust God, Love People.”

Michael Troendle, MSCJ 2008 Michael Troendle was recently named Toledo’s Chief of Police after being appointed Interim Chief earlier this year. He has served the Toledo Police Department for 29 years. Prior to his current position, he was selected as the Assistant Chief in 2018.

Clinton David Bryan, MH 2011 After teaching English at Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington for the past eight years, Dr. Clinton David Bryan will soon assume the position of Dean of their College of Arts and Sciences.

Tammy Rene Hardy, Class of 2012 Tammy graduated in 2012 with a degree in forensic psychology.

She is currently serving as a Behavioral Health Therapist at NOMS Healthcare. Tammy and her husband recently took a 10day cruise to the Panama Canal, as well as a 150-mile canoe trip down the Missouri River.

Zachary Charles Smith, Class of 2015 Zachary graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in organizational management. He is currently the Senior Rep Home Inspector for Moxie Pest Control.

Zachary and his wife recently welcomed a son.

CLASS SCENE / 38

Kylie Lynn Skeel, Class of 2016, MH 2018 Kylie Skeel married Matt Skeel on December 3, 2022. Kylie graduated from TU in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in integrated language arts education. In 2018, she graduated with a Master of Humanities degree with a concentration in English. She recently defended her dissertation and graduated from Bowling Green State University with her Doctor of Philosophy degree in rhetoric and writing.

2020s Lara Pothast, Class of 2020 On February 18, Lara Pothast hosted a book signing at the Pan Yan Bookstore in Tiffin. She is the author of six young adult romance novels, including her most recent, “The Promotion Dilemma,” released in December of 2022. Her pseudonym is Lara Jade.

Shannon Renae Hitch, Class of 2020 Shannon recently began a new position as an Accounting Specialist with the Mental Health and Recovery Service Board of Lucas County.

Jodie Nicole Rainey, Class of 2020 Jodie Rainey has been appointed as a Contract Administrator by the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from TU in 2020.

Abbie-Jade Riley, Class of 2021 Abbie-Jade Riley is a Case Worker at Oriana House, Inc. in Tiffin. She graduated from TU with a Bachelor of Science degree in forensic science in 2021 and received a degree in forensic psychology in 2022.

IN MEMORIAM DAVID LEON HAYES, CLASS OF 1974 David Leon Hayes, 74, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2023, at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loving children and wife. David was born July 28, 1948, in Tiffin to Harold and Marilyn Hayes. He graduated from Calvert High School.

In 1992, David married Patty Ewell of Texas and settled in Toledo. Together, David and Patty formed a foundation which named the Hayes Center for the Arts at Tiffin University. The two continued to reinforce David's deep passion for Tiffin by funding an MBA endowed scholarship at the University that is presented annually to a worthy student. Tiffin University's Hayes Courtyard was also named for the Hayes’ philanthropic support.

KENDRA ANN ROCKHILL DOONE, CLASS OF 1993 Kendra Rockhill Doone, 51, of Springfield, Illinois passed away on Monday, June 27, 2022 at Springfield Memorial Hospital. She was born May 13, 1971, in Irwin, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Ernest Howard and Marianne (Heider) Rockhill.

She married Joseph M. Doone on September 30, 1995 and he survives. Also surviving are her two daughters, Haleigh M. and Shayne M. Doone, both of Springfield; mother, Marianne of The Villages, Florida; brother, Ernest Howard Rockhill, Jr. of Millcreek, Utah; sister, Nicole (Robert) Gladieux of Oregon, Ohio; sister-in-law, Maureen Rockhill of Davidson, North Carolina; feline companion, Lucy and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She is preceded in death by her father, Ernest.

WILLIAM (BILL) PATRICK CROHEN, CLASS OF 1966 William (Bill) Patrick Crohen, 80 of Delaware passed away on Sunday, July 2, 2023. He was born April 20, 1943 in Findlay to the late William F. and Pearl M. (Fritz) Crohen. Bill attended Immaculate Conception School in Port Clinton and then graduated from Port Clinton High School in 1961. He graduated from Tiffin University in 1966 and worked many years in the wine industry.

On June 17, 1972, Bill married the love of his life and best friend, Janis Lorene Grimm in Willard, Ohio. They were blessed with three daughters - Kimberly Anderson (Matthew), Melissa Crohen (John Payne), Teresa Kobelt (Jeff) and six grandchildren - Taylor, Darby, Jacob, Benjamin, William (Will) and Quinn. He is also survived by his sister, Jane Zeis of Columbus.

39 / CLASS SCENE / IN MEMORIUM

SPORTS SCENE TIFFIN FINISHES THIRD IN PRESIDENTS’ CUP RACE Tiffin University has finished third in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) Presidents' Cup standings.

Tiffin totaled 147.5 points, their second-highest total since joing the conference in the 2018-19 season and the most since its 173 points in its debut season. Ashland just edged Findlay for the title 170-169, with Walsh coming in fourth with 146 points and Hillsdale fifth with 130.

Also honored were Wesley Jordan as a First Team honoree and Joshua Rivers as a Second Team standout. Rivers was also named as an All-Defensive Team selection.

Men’s Wrestling

Throughout the 2022-23 season, 13 full member institutions and six associate member institutions competed through conference championship competition to earn points through their performances in the Great Midwest postseason for the Presidents' Cup standings. The Great Midwest Presidents' Cup is annually awarded to the college that has the highest percentage score for sports sponsored within the conference.

Tiffin had another memorable year with many highlights.

Men's soccer, men's outdoor track and field and men's and women's tennis all won G-MAC Championships.

Tom Church (men's basketball), Antonio Guerra (men's wrestling) and Phil Conley (men's and women's tennis) all earned Coach of the Year honors.

Ruben Fonga was named Men's Tennis Player of the Year, while Kristen Dickison was named Women's Soccer Offensive Player of the Year. John Oshakpemhe landed Men's Soccer Defensive Player of the Year honors, while Zack Donathan was named Men's Wrestler of the Year.

Other top honors went to Charlie Cleveland as football Defensive Lineman of the Year and Anthony Lowe as football Special Teams Player of the Year.

WINTER HIGHLIGHTS

Men’s Basketball Head Coach Tom Church, Wesley Jordan and Joshua Rivers were all honored with the announcement of the 2022-23 G-MAC men's basketball All-Conference selections.

Church was named G-MAC Coach of the Year after guiding the Dragons to a 15-14 overall record, their first winning season since 2011-12. The team also posted a 12-8 conference record, the most conference wins in school history and reached the conference playoffs for the first time in 21 seasons.

SPORTS SCENE / 40

Zack Donathan has been named G-MAC Wrestler of the Year, following his 141-pound NCAA National Championship, making him the third TU men's wrestler to earn a national title. He joins Garrett Gray (285) and Nick Mason (197) as national champs for Tiffin. Gray won his title in 2017 and Mason in 2019.

Head Coach Antonio Guerra was also named G-MAC Coach of the Year, while Brandon Mendoza was the Elite 26 award winner for having the highest GPA amongst G-MAC wrestlers. Mendoza joined Donathan in earning First Team All-American honors with an eighth place finish at nationals.

Under Guerra's guidance, The Dragons were ranked 12th in the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) national poll and were the highest-ranked G-MAC school.

Also landing First Team honors for TU were Casey Barnett (157 pounds) and Clayton Ours (285). Barnett was tabbed fourth in the nation and also earned a trip to the NCAA Championships. Barnett won the 157-pound title at the Super Region 3 Championships.

Second Team honors went to Mendoza (125), Donathan (141), and Matthew Zuckerman (149), while Third Team accolades went to Connor Twigg (174).

Women’s Wrestling Jenavi Alejandro finished as National Collegiate Women's Wrestling Championships (NCWWC) national runner-up at 101 pounds, finishing just two points short of a national title.

Overall Alejandro finished 34-8 on the season, setting a new single-season wins record for the Dragons' program.

It also marked the second consecutive season that Tiffin had a finalist in the 101-pound weight class at the National Championships.

Also earning trips to Nationals were Erin Martin, Tatiana Bermudez and Alexia Swisher. Martin was runner-up at the region tournament at 170 pounds, while Tatiana Bermudez (136) and Alexia Swisher (191) were fourth.

Indoor Track and Field The men’s indoor track and field squad had three national qualifiers leading to three All-American performances. Jacob McPherson competed in the weight throw and earned Second Team All-American honors with a ninth place finish.

McPherson is now a three-time All-American, twice indoor and once outdoor last season. Malachi Adams earned two All-American honors. He finished fourth in the 60-meter finals, earning First Team All-American honors. Adams now has two All-American honors in indoor competition, finishing second overall in the 60 meters in 2022. He finished 10th overall in the 200-meter dash with a time of 21.48, good for Second Team All-American honors. Overall the men’s track squad was ranked as high as eighth in the country.

In women’s indoor track, there were also three All-American performances. Rajiah Andrews, who was also named G-MAC Track Athlete of the Year, earned Second Team AllAmerican honors, placing eighth in the 60-meter dash. Ines Macadam competed in the 800 meters and finished eighth.

Her top eight finish earned her First Team All-American honors. Macadam has now earned All-American honors in the 800 meters twice in indoor competition and once in the outdoor season. Brook Boes also competed in the shot put and came in 12th. This landed her a Second Team AllAmerican citation. Boes is now a three-time All-American with this being her first indoor shot put honor. Her other two honors came in outdoor competition last spring in both weight throw and in shot put.

Men’s Golf

The men’s golf team finished runner-up at the G-MAC Championships, with Johan Widal landing selection to the NCAA postseason as an individual. Widal placed eighth overall at the G-MAC Championships with a score of 221. He is the first TU individual to qualify for an NCAA regional.

Overall Widal finished 15th at the Central/Midwest Regional and earned PING All-Midwest Region honors. Mitchell Brassard was also an All G-MAC selection, finishing second overall at the tourney.

Men’s Tennis Tiffin University qualified for its second consecutive NCAA Midwest Regional berth, following championships in both the G-MAC Tournament and regular season standings. The title marks the third G-MAC Championship for the Dragons, who also won in 2022 and 2019. It also marks the third time in four seasons that TU has won the title.

Ruben Fonga was named G-MAC Men's Tennis Player of the Year. Fonga has been ranked as high as second in the nation in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) singles rankings. Teammate Michael Gurtner was also a First-Team selection, while Matthew Weaver and Matthew Telford were Second-Team picks. Head Coach Phil Conley was also named Coach of the Year. This marks Conley's ninth Coach of the Year honor in conference - six times with the women's program, three times with the men.

Women’s Tennis

SPRING HIGHLIGHTS Women’s Golf

Tiffin finished 17th at the NCAA National Championships. This marks the second time in its history the Dragons have reached this milestone, doing so with a fifth-place finish at the East Regional held in Springfield, Illinois. It also marks the fifth consecutive season the Dragons have been selected for the NCAA postseason. Tiffin was also runner-up at the G-MAC Championships. Lisa Marie Schumacher was named Women's Golf Coaches Association (WGCA) East All-Region. This marks Schumacher's first All-Region honor. She is a two-time All G-MAC selection. Schumacher led the team in scoring average and finished second overall at the G-MAC Championships. Also landing All-Conference selection was Amanda Johansson and Michaela Lindahl.

Tiffin University returned to the NCAA Midwest Regional for the second consecutive season, coming off its G-MAC regular season championship. The title marks three consecutive G-MAC regular season championships for the Lady Dragons. Phil Conley was named Coach of the Year after leading the Dragons to another G-MAC regular season championship. Anaelle Lepinay and Carina Avram were named First-Team selections, while Emily Barrett was named Second Team.

41 / SPORTS SCENE

Five Tiffin University women's track and field athletes earned All-Region honors. Rajiah Andrews was a three-time honoree, landing selection in the 100 meters, 200 meters and 100-meter hurdles. Also landing selection was Brook Boes (discus), Amirah Strauther (100 hurdles), C'airra Carter (high jump) and Emily Curtice (heptathlon).

Track and Field

Softball

In men’s outdoor track and field, Tiffin University won the 2023 G-MAC Outdoor Track and Field Championship for the second time in three years.

Tiffin University sent nine outdoor track and field competitors to the Division II National Championships hosted by Colorado State University - Pueblo on May 25 through 27.

Widchard Guervil qualified in three events. He will competed in the 100 meters, 200 meters and as part of the 4x100 relay team. Malachi Adams competed in the 100 and 4x100 relay, while Jacob McPherson landed a spot in multiple events as he qualified in the shot put and hammer throw. Shimar Bain raced in the 400 hurdles, Joshua Bishop landed a spot in the steeplechase and Collin Jasin competed in the pole vault. Other competitors were Vincent Volpe in the hammer throw while Dylan Randall and Michael McNeil were also part of the 4x100 relay squad.

A total of 11 Tiffin University men's track and field standouts were honored with All-Region recognition by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Association (USTFCCCA).

Malachi Adams earned four All-Region citations competing in the 100 meters, 200 meters, 4x100 relay and 4x400 relay teams. Widchard Guervil was right behind, also earning selection in the 100, 200 and 4x100 squads. Shimar Bain landed two honors - 4x400 relay and 400 hurdles. Michael McNeil (4x100, 4x400) also earned two honors, while Dylan Randall (4x100) and Drevon Trapp (4x400) were All-Region in their respective relay teams. Other All-Region honorees were Josh Bishop (steeplechase), Steele Butzin (javelin), Garrett Hoepf (high jump), Collin Jasin (pole vault) and Yassin Khalfaoui (javelin).

In women’s outdoor track and field, TU finished third at the G-MAC Championships and sent three competitors to the NCAA National Championships.

Six Tiffin University softball players landed All G-MAC honors. Leading the way were three Second-Team picks.

Outfielder Taylor Whalen, pitcher Claire Feldkamp and designated hitter Molly Koesters were all SecondTeam picks, while third baseman Maci Head, outfielder Aubrie Harper and utility player Michelle Rodkey landed Third-Team selection.

Baseball Tim Orr and Griffin Stevens were named All-Midwest Region by vote of the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association.

Orr is a now a four-time All-Region performer who has also earned three all-conference honors. He leads the G-MAC in batting, on-base percentage and on-base percentage (OPS) while also finishing sixth in runs batted in (RBI).

Stevens is third in the G-MAC in batting, tied for second in the conference in hits, sixth in RBI and fifth in on-base percentage. He is now a six-time All-Region and three-time All G-MAC selection.

Women’s Lacrosse Six Tiffin University women's lacrosse players have been honored with All G-MAC selections.

Gabrielle Beals and Jenay Rennie landed Second-Team honors by vote of the conference coaches. Katelyn Jarvis, Gabby Wilson, Sydney Dean and Sophia Fasone were Third-Team picks.

Stunt Two Tiffin University stunt student-athletes were named All G-MAC. Rajah Little and Kaiah Hicks were both named First-Team All G-MAC standouts. Hicks led the Dragons in points and total rounds, while Little was second in points. The 2022-23 season marked the debut of stunt as a G-MAC sponsored sport.

Rajiah Andrews, Brook Boes and C'airra Carter got the nod, with Boes landing selection in two events. Boes competed in both the shot put and discus. Andrews competed in the 100 hurdles, while Carter took the field in the high jump.

SPORTS SCENE /

Tiffin University’s softball team qualified for the G-MAC Tournament and made a good run before falling in the semifinals.

42

A FINANCE FUN FACT

HAS A TOP-NOTCH ACCOUNTING PROGRAM In 2022, TU's accounting major within the Hertzer Department of Accounting and Finance received an endorsement from the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA®). The IMA® Endorsement Program awards stamps of approval to colleges and universities with curricula proven to effectively prepare students to perform well on the industry’s Certified Management Accountant (CMA) Exam, as well as meet the demands of jobs in their field post-graduation.

Fewer than 70 accounting programs nationwide have received this accolade.

To qualify for an IMA® endorsement, schools must meet four criteria. Their accounting program must substantially cover the content featured on the CMA exam, the program must have the faculty resources needed to deliver said content, the department must be accredited by a recognized accreditation organization and a faculty member within the major must be designated as an IMA® Campus Advocate.

“

“To receive this endorsement from the IMA highlights the value received by students enrolled in the accounting major at Tiffin University. The endorsement from the IMA indicates the quality of the content within this academic program and the hard work of the faculty teaching in this program.

Knowing that the Tiffin University accounting program has been endorsed by this professional accounting organization should provide every graduate piece of mind and great confidence when entering the competitive and rewarding profession of accounting.”

- Dr. Thomas Marben, Dean of the School of Business

“Not only is it a testament to the hard work and dedication of the faculty, as well as the quality of instruction they provide, but our graduates can now say they received their education from an IMA®endorsed institution. The reputation of the IMA® precedes it and having their official support further enhances the value of a degree in accounting from TU.” - Dr. Peter J. Holbrook, Provost and Chief Academic Officer.

43 / A FINANCE FUN FACT

Note from the Director of Alumni Relations

DEAR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS, See you soon Dragon Nation for our annual Green & Gold – Homecoming and Family Weekend, October 20 21, 2023! The focus of this weekend has always been to bring together all who love TU – alumni, students, families, faculty, staff, parents and the community. This year, we will continue to offer opportunities for everyone to enjoy time together on campus. The full agenda can be found online at tiffin.edu/alumni/green-and-gold.

When you attend an alumni event, you are helping current students. As we look into this fall and next year, we have worked hard to plan events both on campus and in a city near you. Our alumni events have a purpose. We want you to get an update about all the wonderful things that are happening on campus, network with Dragons in your community and help our current students. When you attend an alumni event, your registration fee is a gift that will support the Student Emergency Fund. Please check the website and your email for an up-to-date listing of alumni events near you at tiffin.edu/advancement/alumni/events.

As a reminder, we want you to update your information with your TU family! Whether you're in a new career, just got married, celebrating the birth or adoption of a child, received an award …we want to hear about it!

Visit tiffin.edu/advancement/update-your-information to share your news with us.

On behalf of Tiffin University and the TU Alumni Association, thank you for all that you do for Tiffin University and our students. If you have any questions about Tiffin University or how to get more involved, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Vickie Wilkins `09,`11 Director of Alumni Relations/TUAA Board Advisor wilkinsvm@tiffin.edu

TRAVEL OPPORTUNITY Travel with TU to Spain, Morocco and Portugal - June 17 to 28, 2024 Walk down Barcelona’s pedestrian street, Las Ramblas, visit the 2,800 room Royal Palace in Madrid, stroll through the famous Plaza de España at the center of Spain’s bustling capital city, head south to Andalusia to explore twisted avenues and whitewashed houses in Seville, visit a sprawling Moorish castle in Alhambra and bask on a beach in Costa del Sol. Experience Morocco’s diverse landscape—from the vast Sahara desert to the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the verdant Mediterranean coast—and equally diverse culture. Get lost in the Alfama, a maze of streets where houses are so close together, you can spread your arms and touch buildings on both sides of the street.

Visit the Tour Center link for complete itinerary and pricing at explorica.com/Wilkins-6256 Questions? Contact Vickie Wilkins at wilkinsvm@tiffin.edu.

Travel with Tiffin University next spring break More details coming soon!

ALUMNI SCENE / 44

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD NEWS We extend our sincere gratitude to Brenda Collins `08 and Ali Lukungu `03,`05 who served on the Tiffin University Alumni Association Board for two terms – a total of six years of service each. Through their time on the board we hosted multiple alumni speaker events, awarded alumni achievement awards, executed successful Green & Gold Homecoming and Family Weekends, navigated a global pandemic, developed and approved a new strategic plan and restructured our board and focus to be in line with the University’s missions and priorities. Thank you for your service to Tiffin University. You have made a difference.

July 2023 - TU Day at the Cleveland Guardians was enjoyed by 200 alumni and friends. Look for similar events in the future including the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Dates to be released soon!

UPCOMING EVENTS AND SAVE THE DATE! We have worked very hard to develop a travel schedule to meet and visit with our alumni around the country and we hope to see you soon. Registration for events is highly encouraged so that we can make it the best experience for you. When you attend an alumni event, your registration fee is a gift that will support the Student Emergency Fund. The most current list of alumni events with registration forms can be found on our website at tiffin.edu/advancement/alumni/events.

BRENDA COLLINS

ALI LUKUNGU

We are excited to announce the new Chair Kristen (Ameling) Robinson `09,`12 and the Vice Chair Jessica (Iffland) Palmer `19. Their terms are one-year, renewable terms. We are also excited to welcome former student representative, now Director, Jordan Iffland `23 and new Director, Kyle Johnston `15. Their terms are three-year, renewable terms. Additionally, we are excited to have a new student representative Sophie Richards. We appreciate each of you for your leadership and service to the association.

In the May 2023 meeting, actions of the board included voting and approving emeritus status for Brenda Collins and Ali Lukungu, the new board chair and vice chair and an honorary alumni award that will be available for nomination when our awards open in January 2024.

To view a full list of Alumni Association Board members, visit, tiffin.edu/advancement/alumni/association-board.

• August 10 – Findlay • August 11 - 12 – Men’s basketball alumni event • August 27 – Put-In-Bay with optional kayaking trip • September 6 – Buffalo, New York • September 7 – Mississauga, Canada • September 21 – Atlanta, Georgia • September 28 – Nashville, Tennessee • October 1 – Fort Wayne, Indiana • October 2 – Aaron Ciak Golf outing in Fort Wayne, Indiana • October 5 – Alexandria, Virginia • October 10 – Fort Worth, Texas • October 12 – Dallas, Texas • October 22 – Bellevue • October 26 – Greenville, South Carolina • November 2 – Gilbert, Arizona • November 9 – Toledo • November 14 – Dayton • December 7 – Tiffin Holiday Gathering • December 8 – Sarasota, Florida with optional kayaking trip

COMMEMORATIVE PINT GLASS

Our commemorative pint glass program continues! Every year, a new pint glass is released and is available by making a donation to the senior class gift. If you are a member of the class of 2023 and did not get your pint glass and would like to, contact the alumni office, alumnioffice@tiffin.edu to get yours today! A limited number are left and they are first come, first serve.

45 / ALUMNI SCENE

DRAGONS FOR LIFE!

DRAGON LEGACY PROGRAM All Dragons are family, so why not make Tiffin University a family tradition? We’re excited when many students discover TU for the first time, but through our alumni families, the heritage of the University can pass from generation to generation.

Tiffin University’s Dragon Legacy Program was created to keep alumni and their younger family members connected to the University. As alumni, you know the value of your TU education. We hope that children, siblings and grandchildren of alumni will keep TU in mind as they plan for their future education.

To celebrate this tradition, we invite you to enroll in the Dragon Legacy Program. Legacies will receive numerous benefits and a unique, irreplaceable relationship with TU. Upon enrollment in the program, each legacy will receive an initial welcome gift, yearly birthday cards and a small gift at special age milestones in their lives – as newborns, at age five, age 10 and age 16.

Legacies will also receive invitations to exclusive events that occur during the college recruitment process. Once admitted to TU, your child will be eligible for the Legacy Scholarship ($1,000) that recognizes the importance of family tradition and aids students towards earning a college degree. At commencement, legacies will wear a special legacy medal and have a complimentary family photo taken.

To qualify for the program, the parent or legal guardian must be a graduate of TU and complete an online form with the child’s date of birth and address.

If you have any questions about the Dragon Legacy Program, please visit tiffin.edu/dragon-legacy-program or contact Vickie Wilkins, Director of Alumni Relations, at wilkinsvm.edu or 419.448.3595.

DRAGONS FOR LIFE /

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SHARE YOUR DRAGON PRIDE Do you know someone who could be a future Dragon?

Are you interested in learning more about Tiffin University and the programs that we offer?

As an alum of Tiffin University, we encourage you to share information about Tiffin University and all it has to offer with your family, friends and future college students and their families. We want you to encourage others to join Dragon Nation!

All first-year students who have been accepted to TU and who plan to attend TU on-campus in the fall of 2023 receive an academic scholarship ranging from $10,000 to $17,000 towards four years of attendance. This scholarship is awarded based on their cumulative, unweighted high school grade point average.

First-year students with a parent/guardian who is an alum also qualify for a $1,000 Legacy Scholarship.

New transfer students who plan to attend TU oncampus also qualify for academic scholarships based on their cumulative, college grade point average. Transfer students must have achieved at least a 2.0 to qualify for a scholarship ranging from $10,000 to $16,000 and must start in the fall of 2023.

SHARE YOUR DRAGON PRIDE / 48

Our alumni are our international ambassadors! You create invaluable word-of-mouth marketing and take your knowledge of TU to your hometowns, countries and into your professional and social networks. By communicating with prospective students, you will enable Tiffin University to expand into diverse places. By helping the institution become bigger, stronger and more successful, you are also enhancing the value of your own degree qualification. You illustrate the benefits of a TU education by sharing your collegiate experience and professional success with prospective students.

You may be the reason a student chooses to become a Tiffin Dragon!

For more information please visit, tiffin.edu/apply. If you have any questions or would like a brochure mailed to you, please contact Senior Vice President for Campus Enrollment and Student Affairs Dr. Amy Wood at woodar@tiffin.edu.

ANNUAL ALUMNI AWARDS TO BE PRESENTED DURING GREEN & GOLD WEEKEND

TU WELCOMES THREE NEW BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEMBERS

MARY MULVANEY MARKS

SHAWN SMITH

We are proud of our alumni, and we want to take the opportunity each year to honor their achievements.

The Alumni Achievement Award, the Young Alumni Achievement Award and the Alumni Service Award are presented each year to showcase the contributions made by our alumni. Each award is presented to a TU graduate who meets the following criteria: displays strong personal integrity and character and volunteer service to their community and society.

DR. BENNETT PAULUS

Tiffin University’s Board of Trustees voted to appoint Mary Mulvaney Marks, Shawn Smith and Dr. Bennett Paulus as its three newest members. Congratulations to the following individuals on their new appointments!

Mary Mulvaney Marks has been practicing merger and antitrust law in New York City for almost 30 years. Marks is a counselor in the antitrust group at Davis Polk & Wardwell.

Davis Polk, a global law firm with approximately 1,000 attorneys working across 10 office locations, was named The American Lawyer magazine’s 2021 Law Firm of the Year.

Shawn Smith is the Chairman and CEO of Dedicated Financial GBC. Smith founded the company in 2015 with the vision to create a new kind of commercial loan portfolio management company. His approach combined a new method of connecting on a personal level with those in financial trouble and a new corporate philanthropy model. Under his leadership, the company has grown by 50% or more every year since its inception.

Dr. Bennett Paulus is the President and CEO of Paulus Eyecare Associates, Inc., Findlay Optometry Clinic, Inc. and Fostoria Eyecare, Inc. He has provided primary eye healthcare in the area since 2007. Dr. Paulus manages diseases and disorders of the eye such as glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration, as well as treating ocular injuries and prescribing spectacles and contact lenses. He is a member of the National Glaucoma Society and the Ohio Optometric Association. He is also a local real estate investor who enjoys investing in and giving back to the community in which he was born and raised.

Congratulations to Mary Lewis `86, Lauren Barnes `08 and Bob Manz `71 for being nominated and selected as our recipients for 2023!

MARY LEWIS '86

LAUREN BARNES '08

BOB MANZ '71

The awards will be presented on Saturday, October 21 at 12:30 p.m. in Osceola Theatre in the Gillmor Student Center, as part of the festivities during Green & Gold – Homecoming and Family Weekend.

To read more about the recipients, please visit tiffin.edu/ advancement/alumni/awards.

Shine a light on a fellow Dragon! Our nomination window opens on January 1 of each year and closes on April 30. Please consider nominating a fellow Dragon next year.

GREEN & GOLD

• GREEN & GOLD FEST in Hayes Courtyard.

• Alumni Awards Presentation, Annual 25+ Reunion Luncheon and 50-year Reunion Luncheon.

• Homecoming Tailgate and Football Game at Frost- Kalnow Stadium.

• Multiple athletic competitions and affinity gatherings throughout the weekend.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR GREEN & GOLD WEEKEND 2023:

Registration is highly recommended for GREEN & GOLD WEEKEND. Your registration will get you your ticket to the football game on Saturday. You must register by Friday, October 13, 2023. Late registration may result in not being admitted to an event. All events are open to alumni, families and friends. To register, scan the QR code to the right, or go to tiffin.edu/alumni/green-and-gold.

HOMECOMING AND FAMILY WEEKEND – OCTOBER 20 - 21

• Hall of Fame Brunch and Induction Ceremony – Congratulations to this year’s class! Jeremy Croy (head track and field/cross country coach), Pat Curtin (baseball), Mandy Jaeb (women's basketball), April Nietrzeba (softball), Alexandria Quast (women's lacrosse) and Dan Snyder (men's track and field).

49 / WELCOME TRUSTEE MEMBERS / ANNUAL ALUMNI AWARDS / HOMECOMING

SUMMIT TO SUCCESS SPEAKERS

GO BIG FOR

HALEY SANGREGORY '20

“There are a few things that separate TU from other institutions.

First, the professors haven’t only taught for the entirety of their careers. They’ve spent time working in the same fields in which they are teaching, and students benefit from this real-world experience, which is priceless. There are also a multitude of opportunities available through TU and the organization does everything it can to connect students to these experiences. This is a one-of-a-kind University in a one-of-a-kind town!”

On Wednesday, September 13, Tiffin University will host its fifth annual Fuel the Fire Giving Day fundraising campaign. As the biggest charitable event of the year, it is the most appropriate time for Tiffin University employees, alumni and friends to show appreciation for the institution by helping to secure its future. Last year, $198,836 was raised through an impressive 1,544 gifts – a number the Advancement Team hopes to surpass with a little help!

AMBER METZGAR OLEKSYK '07

“During my time at TU, I found the staff and advisors in the Career Services department to be a differentiator as I prepared for life after college. The access to resumebuilding aid and resources, the preparation for interviews and networking opportunities were top-notch. I was able to take advantage of these, which ultimately led to a career with my current employer. As a student, I received extraordinary support and advice from my professors, which opened my eyes and mind to opportunities including my eventual internship, marketing club involvement and various future career paths. I’m thankful for my time at TU and the many memories I will forever cherish!”

This year’s event is especially worth taking part in, as it is also marked by TU’s celebration of its 135th anniversary. Please consider making a gift in honor of this significant milestone. When Dragons work together, a real difference can be made.

Please contact Mikki King, Director of Annual Giving at kingmr@tiffin.edu for information on how to schedule a gift or with any questions.

HOMECOMING ON THE HORIZON - MARK THOSE CALENDARS, DRAGONS

KIT TIELL '08

“Among the experiences surrounding my four years at Tiffin University, the study abroad semester made a lasting impact.

The London campus provided a diverse atmosphere that challenged my views and broadened my thinking. This experience forced me out of my comfort zone and to try new things, which has carried forward in making me a much better business owner.”

Visit campus for one of the most anticipated events of the year, TU's Green & Gold - Homecoming and Family Weekend, scheduled for October 20 and 21.

Early registration is strongly encouraged. When booking hotels, be sure to reference the special Tiffin University friends and family rate.

MATT RYSER '20

“Tiffin University is a phenomenal resource for any student that does not fit the traditional model of higher education. The University meets students where they are, and over the course of the program, students are gradually ushered into a higher level of knowledge and confidence. I did not fit the mold of higher education, and I was welcomed to Tiffin with open arms.”

Scan the QR code to the left to register and take a look at the full itinerary.

GO BIG FOR GIVING DAY / HOMECOMING / SUMMIT TO SUCCESS SPEAKERS /

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BROTHERLY BONDS

PHI THETA PI'S NATIONAL CONVENTION From May 10 to May 14, the Phi Theta Pi professional fraternity and honorary society hosted its annual National Convention in Marietta, Ohio. Brothers from Tiffin University's chapter and others across the country, as well as significant others and friends participated in the event.

The group stayed in the historic Lafayette Hotel, located along the Ohio River in downtown Marietta.

While in Marietta, brothers and company enjoyed a paddleboat ride with breakfast and lunch served onboard, as well as a stop at the famous Blennerhassett Island in West Virginia - to name a few of several outings.

The Saturday awards banquet was attended by over 60 members and guests.

Scholarships were distributed to Luke Weise and Tristen Meyers of the Delta Beta chapter.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Ron Voden of Las Vegas, Nevada, Ralph Dunn of Richmond, Virginia and Joe Wood of Columbus. Additionally, the A.J. Harris Award was also given to Ralph Dunn.

A special tea time and luncheon was held in honor of the brothers' spouses and guests who, in the members’ own words, provided tremendous help with the planning of the convention. It was held at The Castle, an historic home in Marietta.

51 / PHI THETA PI

FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME'S THE CHARM

IMPACT SHIRT REVEALED! For the third year in a row, the Tiffin University Impact Shirt is available! The TU Impact Shirt is an exclusive, one-of-a-kind shirt that changes design each year and is sold for a limited time.

For every Impact Shirt sold, proceeds will benefit a select area of campus. This year, the Dragon Cupboard –Tiffin University’s Food Pantry, will be the focus.

For the third year in a row, Tiffin University’s undergraduate and graduate students with the School of Business have collectively scored above the national average on the Major Field Test, administered by Peregrine Academic Services.

Together, students have excelled in a vast majority of Peregrine's assessment categories since 2020, and in 2023, averages were exceeded in every area.

“The test results are not only a testament to the quality of instruction being provided by the faculty at Tiffin University, but also exemplify the dedication and the commitment of Tiffin University students to their academic studies,” said Dr. Terry Sullivan, Vice Provost for Academics

The Major Field Test assesses business students in several core competency areas, ranging from accounting, management, marketing, finance, leadership, economics and more. The business program’s average is then compared with those of other institutions affiliated with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Universities allied with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) also have their scores considered.

In the spring of 2023, Tiffin University’s undergraduate students in seated business courses scored 15.66 percentage points higher than other ACBSP participating institutions for each competency area, and 14.28 points higher than AACSB programs.

TU’s online undergraduate students scored 10.1 points higher than other ACBSP schools and 8.72 points higher than programs with the AACSB. TU graduate on-campus students also scored 16.62 percentage points above other ACBSP schools in each category, and 15.42 points above others with the AACSB.

Scan the QR code to order your Impact Shirt!

IMPACT SHIRT / FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD TIME'S THE CHARM

Online graduate students scored 3.19 points higher than ACBSP affiliates and 1.99 points higher than other AACSB schools.

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LIFELONG LEARNING AT TIFFIN UNIVERSITY LIFE@TU is for those who love learning and want to dig deeper into their areas of interest or discover something entirely new.

LIFE@TU is a program of educational, cultural and social opportunities for retired and semi-retired individuals.

Take courses in a relaxed atmosphere for the pure pleasure of learning - and transform your life through education.

Tiffin University’s lifelong learning program, LIFE@TU, offers academically oriented, non-credit programming for adults, aged 50 plus - featuring weekly presentations on engaging topics, taught by current and retired faculty, staff members and area educators. Ten classes are offered each semester (fall and spring).

With LIFE@TU, you’ll learn about history, science and technology, arts, culture, politics and more. The program is open to residents of Seneca County and the surrounding community.

There are no admissions requirements, no tests and no grades.

Just dive in, learn about and discuss interesting topics - and make some new friends along the way. After the presentations, eat lunch, get some coffee or hang out with friends in Cole Dining Hall.

PRICING

• Annual membership (20 classes): $150 • Semester membership (10 classes): $85 • Single event pass: $12 • Guest passes (for attendance with members) are available for $5 INCLUDED IN THE PRICE (ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP) • Attendance at 10 in-person, two-hour interactive sessions per semester.

• Reserved event parking next to Gillmor Student Center.

• Access to recordings after the event via an emailed link.

• Free admission to athletic events (with LIFE ID).

• Discounted price ($6.50) for lunch on the day of the event in Cole Dining Hall.

• Priority seating for TU Christmas at The Ritz Theatre and musical theatre productions.

• Five LIFE@TU guest passes at $5 per pass.

OUR MISSION

Scan the QR code to become a LIFE member.

Establish a community of lifelong learners, age 50 plus, by offering member-driven topics of interest that promote learning and enriching experiences through unique programs and ongoing community-University engagement.

For more information about the program and to become a LIFE member please visit tiffin.edu/life@tu or contact Vickie Wilkins at wilkinsvm@tiffin.edu.

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54

Congratulations

2023 TU GRADS

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NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID TIFFIN UNIVERSITY

155 Miami Street Tiffin, Ohio 44883

STAY CONNECTED. @TiffinU

Front and Back Cover Photo's provided

by Tiffin University's Drone Academy. tiffin.edu Featuring scenic aerial views of TU'S campus and the surrounding area.