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CHALLENGE MAGAZINE VOLUME 42, ISSUE 1

g n i t a r b e l e C ears! 10 Y

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

Letter from the President

36-42 Donor Honor Roll

Guiding Principles

6-7 A Decade of Thoughtful and Transformational Leadership - Celebrating 10 years of President Lillian Schumacher 8-9

A Legacy of Impact - Drs. Dan and Laura Mays and their enduring commitment to Tiffin University

10-11 A Legacy of Leadership, Learning and Global Impact - Dr. Teresa Shafer

Phi Theta Pi Fraternity

44-48 Class Scene 49-53 Sports Scene 54-57 2026 TU Athletics Hall of Fame Class 58-59 Alumni Scene: Meet your new Director of Alumni and Community Relations Andrea Gibson ‘14 60 Welcoming our Newest Dragons

12 Making Her Mark in Research - Lilly Graham ‘26 turns opportunity into discovery

61 Upcoming Events Dragon Advised Fund for Tiffin University

13 Inspired by Innovation, Driven by Impact - A comprehensive campaign for Tiffin University

62-63 TU 2026 Alumni Awards Recipients

14 A Personal Path to Success - Paul Williams ‘87

64 Alumni Awards: Celebrate a fellow Dragon Alumni Association Board News

15 A Legacy of Dragon Athletics: Shane O’Donnell

65 Share Your Dragon Pride

16-25

Campus Scene

66-67 LIFE@TU The Adventure of Lifelong Learning

Impact Shirt Revealed

68 Dragons for Life! Dragon Legacy Program

26-27 Beyond the Rejection: A journey of persistence 28

Dragons Unite

Tiffin Society - Join a community of leaders investing in the future of Tiffin University

30-31

TU Travels - Take flight with Tiffin University

32-33

A Career Built on Service - Rachel Wamsley ‘09

34-35 Coy Blair makes Tiffin Track and Field History with Hall of Fame Selection

69 Tiffin University: Celebrating the 138th Commencement Ceremony 70-71

Congratulations 2026 TU Grads

GO GREEN... AND GOLD! Scan the QR code to receive Challenge Magazine digitally only and opt out of the printed mailing.

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

CONTRIBUTORS

WRITER + EDITOR Katie Tiell, Public Relations Writer

Change of address: Office of Alumni Relations alumnioffice@tiffin.edu

DESIGN Judy Reynolds, Graphic Designer

Debby Roszman, Executive Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Communications Send news to: tiffin.edu/tellus

Update your information: tiffin.edu/advancement/update-your-information/

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

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Dear Alumni and Friends,

You will also meet students and alumni whose stories reflect the heart of a Tiffin University education. Lilly Graham’s undergraduate research in forensic science highlights the power of curiosity and hands-on learning. Badal Sharma’s journey reminds us of the importance of persistence and Paul Williams shares a story of resilience, overcoming academic barriers and finding the support he needed to succeed at TU. Rachel Wamsley has built a career centered on service, and Coy Blair’s induction into the USTFCCCA Hall of Fame marks a historic moment for Tiffin University athletics.

It is my pleasure to welcome you to our latest edition of Challenge Magazine. As a new academic year begins at Tiffin University, this issue arrives at a meaningful time, one filled with reflection, celebration and renewed excitement for the future of our University. Each fall, our campus comes alive with the energy of students beginning new chapters, faculty and staff preparing for another year of purpose-driven work and alumni continuing to carry the Tiffin University spirit far beyond campus. This edition of Challenge captures that same energy by sharing the stories of Dragons whose commitment, perseverance and service continue to shape TU in powerful ways.

This edition also celebrates our newest graduates, introduces our new Director of Alumni Relations Andrea Gibson and shares more about Inspired by Innovation. Driven by Impact., our campaign focused on the continued growth and future of TU.

This year also marks my 10th year serving as president of Tiffin University. As I reflect on the past decade, I am filled with gratitude for the progress we have made together. Our accomplishments have been made possible through the dedication of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and friends, all of whom have helped strengthen our University and position TU for an even brighter future.

I hope this issue of Challenge Magazine reminds you of the pride, purpose and connection that define our Dragon community. Thank you for your continued support of Tiffin University and for being part of the story we are still writing together. Warm regards,

In this issue, you will read about the lasting impact of Drs. Dan and Laura Mays, whose commitment to Tiffin University has reached across generations of students. We also celebrate Dr. Teresa Shafer as she retires after more than 30 years of service, honoring a career defined by dedication and care for the TU community.

Dr. Lillian B. Schumacher President of Tiffin University

GUIDING PRINCIPLES PURPOSE

VALUES

What we are about: Transforming lives through education.

How we behave – ICARE Interdependence

MISSION

We are an inclusive and caring community that emphasizes service as a foundation of success.

What we do: Educate students by linking knowledge to professional practice.

Communication We engage in authentic dialogue, timely exchanges of information, and fact-driven discussion, civil debate, and decision-making.

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.

Accountability We make ethical, responsible decisions that have a high degree of integrity, are data-informed, and are results-oriented.

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)

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.

A DECADE OF THOUGHTFUL AND TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF PRESIDENT LILLIAN SCHUMACHER Over the past decade, Tiffin University has experienced a period of remarkable transformation. New academic programs have emerged, innovative learning spaces have reshaped campus, global partnerships have expanded opportunities and the University’s reputation for innovation has continued to grow. At the center of that evolution has been Dr. Lillian Schumacher, who this year celebrates 10 years as President of Tiffin University. Her decade of leadership has brought the University’s largest fundraising total, its first doctoral programs and record enrollment.

deliberate effort to build on an already welcoming campus has become a defining element of the TU experience. In 2022, that work expanded further with the opening of the Center for InterculTUral Excellence, which trains faculty and staff in cultural intelligence, hosts global speakers and has developed curriculum that other institutions have since adopted — a tangible sign of the center’s reach beyond Tiffin’s own campus. That same instinct for building lasting institutions extended to the classroom. Under President Schumacher’s leadership, Tiffin University oversaw the launch of its first doctoral programs, a Ph.D. in Global Leadership and Change and a Doctor of Criminal Justice, expanding the University’s academic reach well beyond its undergraduate roots. Fellowship opportunities at TU have also created distinctive pathways for students to apply their learning in meaningful, real-world contexts, deepening academic engagement while connecting students to specialized experiences that reflect the University’s career-focused mission. Together, these initiatives have supported sustained enrollment growth even as many peer institutions have declined, with Tiffin University growing from roughly 3,000 students in 2020 to 3,749* today.

When Dr. Schumacher was appointed president in 2016, becoming the first woman to lead the institution, she brought with her a clear vision for the future. Drawing on decades of experience in higher education, organizational development and leadership consulting, she believed colleges and universities could not afford to stand still and that success would require adaptation, innovation and a commitment to preparing students for a world that is increasingly interconnected. That belief has guided Tiffin University’s progress ever since. One of President Schumacher’s earliest priorities was developing a framework that clearly defined the institution’s purpose, aspirations and values. The result was the Guiding Principles, which articulate what Tiffin University is about, what it does, what it hopes to become, where it will focus its efforts and how members of the University community are expected to engage with one another. Together with the ICARE values, the Guiding Principles established a common language and shared direction that continues to influence decision-making across the institution.

Dr. Schumacher’s leadership has also been marked by historic fundraising success and sustained institutional investment. In her first 18 months, she led efforts that raised $8 million toward the Murphy challenge, strengthened by a matching gift from a donor. That early momentum helped establish a culture of philanthropy that has carried through a decade of giving: Tiffin University has now raised more than $50 million during her tenure, including $33.6 million in the Comprehensive Campaign (Phase I) that has funded major campus investments and scholarships.

Dr. Schumacher has also worked steadily to strengthen campus culture and global awareness. In 2016, she launched Celebrating Cultural Uniqueness (CCU@TU), an initiative designed to deepen openness, curiosity and engagement across differences. What began as a

That fundraising has been translated directly into a series of historic firsts for the University. Tiffin fielded Ohio’s first esports and women’s wrestling programs, 6

and its Cyber Defense and Forensics program earned a national designation from the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency — recognition that has since helped its Cyber Dragons hacking team place in the top five percent nationally. Major capital investments followed the same pattern of calculated risk-taking: the Performing Arts Laboratory in 2017, a state-of-the-art Center for Science and Technology in 2022 and the Center for Innovation and Learning, completed in 2025, each designed to expand handson, experiential learning across disciplines. That momentum has only accelerated in recent years. In 2025 alone, Tiffin set a new school record with 300 student-athletes honored with Division II Athletic Directors Association (D2ADA) Academic Achievement Awards, its Cold Case Fellowship was featured on a national podcast, and the School of Business achieved a Global Top 100 ranking in the Business Strategy Game — evidence that the University’s academic and athletic programs are both gaining recognition well beyond Tiffin, Ohio. Programs like LIFE@TU, a weekly educational series launched in 2023 for adults 50 and older, have further widened the University’s impact into the surrounding community. Across these milestones, Dr. Schumacher’s leadership reflects a consistent focus on alignment between mission and action. Every Tiffin University undergraduate now participates in hands-on learning, internships or professional projects before graduation, ensuring career readiness backed by record enrollment, strong job placement rates, historic fundraising and national recognition in both academics and athletics. Whether through academics, facilities, athletics or innovation, her presidency has emphasized building an institution that is forward-thinking, transformative and grounded in student success. As she marks a decade of thoughtful leadership, Schumacher’s legacy is reflected not only in the growth of Tiffin University, but in the clarity of its direction defined by purpose, guided by values and centered on preparing students for what comes next.

Footnote - *Due to the timing of this article’s publication, fall 2025 data was used.

BY THE NUMBERS:

25%

increase in total enrollment

$50 Million+ Raised During Her Tenure

Doctoral Programs Launched

Launched

LIFE@TU in 2023 with more than 180 members

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE • • • • • • •

First woman to serve as President of Tiffin University Established TU’s Guiding Principles and ICARE values Created CCU@TU and the Center for InterculTUral Excellence Expanded global partnerships and academic opportunities Strengthened hands-on and experiential learning Invested in transformative learning spaces Grew TU’s reach through new programs, fellowships and community initiatives 7

Major Learning Facilities Opened

A LEGACY OF IMPACT

DRS. DAN AND LAURA MAYS AND THEIR ENDURING COMMITMENT TO TIFFIN UNIVERSITY programs distinguished themselves in a competitive international landscape. Today, Tiffin stands as the only remaining U.S.-based business program operating in Romania, consistently recognized as the top-ranked program in the country.

For Drs. Dan and Laura Mays, Tiffin University is not simply a place where they have taught – it is an institution that has shaped their lives, work and shared sense of purpose. With a combined 55 years of service to the University, their contributions span continents, disciplines and generations of students. Their story is one of professional dedication, global impact and a deep belief in the transformative power of education.

Dr. Dan Mays came to Tiffin University after careers in psychology, then in healthcare and medical-distribution leadership and consulting. His decision to join TU was grounded in a clear conviction. He said, “TU punches above its weight class as a university.” For more than 25 years, he and Dr. Laura Mays have contributed to some of the University’s significant academic developments. They were early faculty members in Tiffin’s online MBA program, one of the first of its kind and still highly ranked. They later played key roles in developing the Ph.D. program in global leadership and change. Dr. Dan designed the quantitative research and statistics curriculum, while Dr. Laura developed the qualitative research sequence, drawing on their prior experience launching doctoral programs at other institutions. They also frequently serve on doctoral dissertation committees.

Dr. Laura Mays, now Professor Emerita, often reflects on the role Tiffin University has played in her life, “Tiffin University changed my life.” Her career prior to and alongside her work at TU included extensive experience in the former Soviet Union, Lebanon and Eastern Europe. Tiffin provided the platform through which those experiences could be translated into meaningful academic and institutional impact. Through federal grant funding she secured, Tiffin University established a long-standing presence in Romania, where TU faculty have delivered the MBA program in Bucharest for more than two decades, along with a BBA program offered for several years now.

Dr. Dan’s work has also extended into one of Tiffin’s more recent innovations: the development of a comprehensive intercultural assessment framework and survey instrument. As project manager of this initiative, he has collaborated with faculty colleagues to expand the understanding of intercultural competence beyond traditional assessment to address additional factors such as the role of the person’s belief in their own effectiveness, their ability to regulate their emotions and even their orientation to behaving ethically when dealing with people culturally different from themselves.

The influence of these initiatives has extended far beyond traditional classroom outcomes. Dr. Laura secured a grant for Tiffin University that supported the creation of a criminal justice program in Romania. Tiffin University’s criminal justice faculty were responsible for developing and delivering the program, which was completed by Romanian Supreme Court justices and contributed to the Romanian government revising laws to prevent juveniles from being incarcerated in the general prison population. Building on this foundation, Tiffin’s partnership with the University of Bucharest emerged, and over time, the University’s business 8

For Dr. Dan, the most meaningful findings from this work are not merely academic. Through longitudinal assessment of students at entry and completion, he has observed consistent evidence that Tiffin students not only demonstrate strong intercultural capabilities but also show measurable growth over time. Most notably, students exhibit exceptionally high ethical orientation. “They enter the program above average on national norms,” he notes, “and by the end of their experience, the average graduate ranks in the top 10 percent nationally. That, to me, is evidence that Tiffin is truly contributing to a better world.” It is this alignment between institutional mission and student outcomes that lies at the heart of the Mayses’ enduring commitment to Tiffin University. Their decision to pledge 35 percent of their estate to the University reflects not only gratitude, but also confidence in its future. As Dr. Laura Mays expresses it, “We hope we gave as much as we got.” Their connection to Tiffin extends beyond the classroom and across geography. For many years, the Mayses’ lived in the Cleveland area while teaching across multiple campuses and online programs. Since 2013, they have made their home aboard a 48-foot powerboat in Florida, continuing to teach and remain actively engaged with the University community. They regularly return to campus for commencements and opportunities to reconnect with colleagues and students who have become lasting friends. Their lives are grounded in shared values and a commitment to meaningful work. While they have no children, they have built a legacy through their students, programs and contributions to the University. The story of Drs. Dan and Laura Mays is ultimately a story about impact on students, institutions and the broader global community. Through decades of teaching, program development and international engagement, they have helped position Tiffin University as an institution that not only educates but also transforms. Their legacy, both in what they have already given and what they have pledged for the future, will continue to shape that mission for years to come.

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP, LEARNING AND GLOBAL IMPACT

DR. TERESA SHAFER

Among her most significant accomplishments was expanding Tiffin University’s global footprint. As Director of Global Programs, Dr. Shafer oversaw operations in Bucharest, Romania, where Tiffin University has offered an Executive MBA program for more than 20 years. Under her leadership, the Romania program expanded to include undergraduate degrees in management, psychology and cyber security. Dr. Shafer also led global education efforts in the Czech Republic, Poland, Switzerland and Taiwan, creating opportunities for students around the world to access a Tiffin University education and benefit from its student-centered approach.

When Dr. Teresa Shafer retired this past spring, she concluded a remarkable 33-year career that helped shape Tiffin University into the institution it is today. Through her leadership, commitment to academic excellence and passion for expanding educational opportunities, she leaves behind a legacy that spans classrooms, boardrooms and countries around the world. After beginning her academic journey at The Ohio State University at Marion and completing graduate school, Dr. Shafer spent 10 years working in the insurance industry. In 1993, she joined Tiffin University as an adjunct professor while completing her doctorate at Bowling Green State University. What began as a teaching role quickly evolved into a career marked by service, innovation and leadership.

In addition to her international work, Dr. Shafer became a respected accreditation specialist. She served as a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission and helped guide Tiffin University through successful reaffirmations with the Ohio Department of Higher Education, the Higher Learning Commission and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Over the next three decades, Dr. Shafer held a number of influential positions across TU. She served as the Founding Director of the Degree Completion Program, helping create pathways for adult learners seeking to advance their education. She later served as Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, Dean of Assessment, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President for Institutional Planning and Effectiveness and Executive Dean for Institutional Affairs. Throughout those roles, Dr. Shafer provided leadership in academics, institutional research, strategic planning, assessment, accreditation, career services and global education. Her ability to balance long-term vision with practical implementation played an important role in guiding the University through periods of growth and change.

Dr. Shafer’s lasting impact is found in the students, alumni, faculty and staff she influenced throughout her career. Through her mentorship, leadership and dedication to higher education, she strengthened the University and expanded opportunities for generations of Dragons. As Tiffin University reflects on her retirement, it celebrates a career defined by service, vision and an unwavering belief in the power of education.

MAKING HER MARK IN RESEARCH

LILLY GRAHAM ‘26 TURNS OPPORTUNITY INTO DISCOVERY health. She presented this research at both the American Chemical Society National Conference and the University of NebraskaLincoln, where she received the Best Chemistry Poster Award, recognizing both the quality of her research and her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts. Graham is currently preparing a manuscript based on this work for publication.

Before graduating from Tiffin University in 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in forensic science, Lilly Graham had already built an impressive record as an undergraduate researcher, contributing to scientific publications and leading independent, awardwinning research through a nationally competitive program. Graham is a co-author of two recent journal articles, contributing to the writing and editing of manuscripts. The first study, “Chromatographic-Based Binding and Thermodynamic Studies of Antibiotic Micropollutants with Humic Acid Using Affinity Microcolumns,” examined how several common antibiotics bind to humic acid, a natural component of soil and water that can transport pollutants. In a second study, “Screening of Binding by Antidiabetic Drugs to Normal vs. AGE-Modified Human Serum Albumin through Covalent Immobilization and Microscale Affinity Chromatography,” colleagues used a rapid laboratory technique to study how several diabetes drugs bind to human serum albumin. The method proved to be a quick and reliable way to study drug-protein interactions, which could help improve drug research and personalized treatments.

The experience presenting at the conference strengthened her preparation for future academic and professional goals. “Presenting my research helped me practice explaining technical concepts clearly, which is an important skill for patient care and collaboration in the medical field,” she said. “Seeing research tied to medicinal and pharmaceutical applications reinforced my interest in pursuing a career in medicine.” Dr. Mark Sabo, Dean of the School of Science, Technology and Health, emphasized the significance of Graham’s research contributions. “It is rare for undergraduate students to have the opportunity to participate in research that leads to peer-reviewed publications. To see a student contribute to two journal articles before even graduating is extraordinary and reflects Lilly’s intellectual ability and willingness to pursue opportunities that link knowledge to professional practice.”

Graham’s independent research was conducted through a National Science Foundation-funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her project, “Characterization of Affinity Chromatographic Supports with Entrapped Polystyrene Nanoplastics for Pharmaceutical Microcontaminant Interactions,” explored how pharmaceutical contaminants interact with nanoplastics in the environment and how these interactions may impact ecosystems and human

Graham’s achievements highlight Tiffin University’s commitment to experiential learning, providing students with meaningful opportunities to engage in research, develop professional skills and prepare for careers in science and related fields.

INSPIRED BY INNOVATION. DRIVEN BY IMPACT.

A COMPREHENSIVE CAMPAIGN FOR TIFFIN UNIVERSITY Strengthening TU’s Future

Tiffin University has always been defined by a willingness to think differently, embrace opportunity and invest boldly in the future. Today, that spirit is driving the University’s next transformative chapter through the “Inspired by Innovation. Driven by Impact.” Comprehensive Campaign.

While physical improvements are an important part of the campaign, an equally significant priority is growing Tiffin University’s endowment. Endowment support provides lasting resources that help expand scholarship opportunities, advance academic innovation and strengthen the University’s financial foundation. By increasing endowment funding, Tiffin University can continue to attract talented students, invest in new programs and remain responsive to the evolving needs of higher education. These investments ensure that future generations of students have access to the same life-changing opportunities that have shaped the experiences of thousands of TU alumni.

Building on years of momentum, this campaign reflects a clear vision for the future of Tiffin University: enhancing the student experience, strengthening campus life and ensuring long-term sustainability through strategic investment and philanthropic support. At the heart of the campaign are projects designed to enrich daily life for students while creating opportunities that will benefit generations of Dragons to come.

Investing in the Student Experience

Why Now? Tiffin University is experiencing a period of remarkable growth. Enrollment continues to rise, new academic programs are expanding opportunities for students and major campus developments are underway. At the same time, today’s students expect a college experience that is connected, supportive and forward-thinking. Investing now allows TU to meet those expectations while strengthening student success, persistence and engagement.

As Tiffin University continues to grow, so does the need for spaces that foster connection, engagement and belonging. The campaign’s signature projects focus on creating a campus environment where students can thrive academically, socially and personally. A major renovation and expansion of the Gillmor Student Center will transform the heart of campus. The additions will provide students with more opportunities to gather and build meaningful relationships outside the classroom. The campaign will also support the development of Dragon Walk, a pedestrian corridor designed to safely connect academic and residential spaces. More than a pathway, the Dragon Walk will create a welcoming campus environment that encourages collaboration and community.

This campaign is more than a fundraising effort. It is a commitment to the future of Tiffin University and the students whose lives will be transformed by the opportunities created through the generosity of alumni, friends and supporters. Together, we are building the next chapter of the Dragon story. To learn more about the campaign or to discuss how you can support Tiffin University’s future, contact Mitch Blonde, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Public Affairs/Chief Advancement Officer, at blondemp@tiffin.edu.

These enhancements complement recent investments in academic facilities and planned residential hall developments, while also supporting the University’s commitment to providing a student-centered experience. 13

A PERSONAL PATH TO SUCCESS

PAUL WILLIAMS ‘87

logistics services, including dry van, flatbed and specialized hauling.

When Paul Williams ‘87 arrived at Tiffin University in 1983, he was unsure what college would hold for him. He had not taken the SAT or ACT, did not consider himself a strong student and was admitted on probation. What he found was a small campus where professors knew their students and were willing to help them succeed. He studied business management and joined TU’s first men’s soccer team.

Williams began working in operations before transitioning into sales, eventually becoming Executive Vice President in 1996 and President in 2000. Dyslexia continued to affect his work when writing business correspondence, so he sought additional support. For eight years, he met weekly with Stephanie Gordon through a dyslexia association in Cleveland to work on spelling, writing and business communication. “I ended up really becoming a fairly decent businessperson,” Williams said.

The turning point in Williams’ education came during his junior year. After he struggled in algebra and western civilization, two professors recognized that his verbal understanding did not match his written work and suggested he be tested for dyslexia. “I was diagnosed with dyslexia my junior year,” Williams said. The diagnosis helped explain challenges he had faced and gave his professors a way to support him. His western civilization professor allowed him to complete his final exam on cassette tape, and Williams earned a B in the course. “I ended up graduating on time,” he said.

As his responsibilities grew, Williams developed a measured approach to leadership. “Always look at things from 10,000 feet, and put all the information on a scale,” he said. “Don’t jump to any conclusion until you get everybody’s side of the story.” Under his leadership, Wooster Motorways has grown from approximately 70 employees to about 120. Williams is especially proud that the company has remained a family business while emphasizing safety, service and relationships with employees. “My door is always open, any employee can come at any time,” he said. “We learn their names, we don’t call them by their unit number.”

That personal attention extended throughout campus. Williams remembers the librarian spending hours helping him write papers, while professors made time to meet with him outside class. “Tiffin University was fairly small,” he said. “I had classes as small as eight people. I think the largest class I had was 25 students. So you got a very one-on-one personal education.” One labor law professor regularly assigned Williams to defend the union perspective because his father had taken over a nonunion trucking company. The professor believed Williams needed to understand the other side before entering the family business. “That was probably one of the greatest things he could have done for me,” Williams said.

At the 80th annual convention of the International Dyslexia Association, Williams shared his story as keynote speaker before approximately 650 attendees. “I had people laughing,” he said. “I had them crying when I told them my life story.” Looking back, he credits TU’s small classes and personal support with changing the direction of his life. “I think if it wasn’t for a small, personal, one-on-one experience, I would never have passed at a big school,” he said. His advice to current students is simple: “I would tell them not to let the first year make their decision.” For Williams, giving Tiffin University a chance opened the door to an education, a career and a future he once could not have imagined.

After Williams’ father passed in 1988, his career path changed quickly. He moved to Wooster and joined Wooster Motor Ways Inc., a family-owned transportation company providing regional truckload freight services throughout Ohio and surrounding states. The company offers a range of transportation and 14

A LEGACY OF DRAGON ATHLETICS:

SHANE O’DONNEL ’13, ‘25 and encouragement over the years. I look forward to seeing our teams continuing to compete at the highest levels. The only difference is now I will be watching as a fan like everyone else.”

Shane O’Donnell, who completed his 34th year as Sports Information Director at Tiffin University, has announced his retirement following a decorated career. O’Donnell became Tiffin’s first Sports Information Director in 1992, and he has held that title since then. He created the TU athletic history archives which included researching the department’s history dating back to 1900. Additionally, he organized and oversaw the creation of photo and video archives.

“For 34 years, Shane has worked tirelessly behind the scenes in support of Dragon Nation. He has witnessed the evolution of our University and has been with us every step of the way,” said Assistant Vice President for Athletics and Director of Athletics Kelly Daniel. “Shane has served as a trusted historian and passionate advocate for the University, playing a central role in documenting and preserving Tiffin University athletic history. His leadership in the development and expansion of the athletics history portal has helped ensure the achievements, traditions and stories of Dragon Nation are accurately preserved and meaningfully shared for generations to come.”

O’Donnell has been writing and covering TU athletics since 1986 when counting the seven years he worked at the Advertiser-Tribune, predating the creation of the Gillmor Center and coinciding with the first year of Tiffin football. O’Donnell started broadcasting Tiffin athletic events on various media, first on local cable access which eventually led to online streaming. He helped create and oversee every Tiffin athletic website and has worked for TU athletics longer than any other athletics staff member in the school’s history (34 years).

Daniel concluded by saying, “An office door closed for the last time, but the impact Shane has made and the memories he helped create will live on forever. His legacy will always remain a part of Dragon Athletics. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for everything, Shane. Keep cheering us on… just from a different seat now.”

O’Donnell is a TU icon who helped establish the Tiffin University Hall of Fame and has served as the chair of the Hall of Fame committee for 30 years. “It has been quite the ride watching the growth and development of the athletic department during my time at Tiffin. When I started at Tiffin, we had 12 sports, and we have twice as many now. The athletic department was accomplishing great things when I started here, and it has continued to do great things as it has grown,” said O’Donnell. “I want to thank Dr. George Kidd, Jr., Dr. Paul Marion and Dr. Lillian Schumacher for providing leadership and vision as Presidents during my time here. I also cannot thank the Athletic Directors enough that I have worked under – Ian Day, Lonny Allen and Kelly Daniel - for all of their support

“Shane’s tenure at Tiffin University is truly admirable,” said President Dr. Lillian Schumacher. “Shane, thank you for your many years of service to Tiffin University. Not only did you devote your professional career to TU, but as an alumnus, you also gave us one of our most cherished traditions by writing our alma mater and fight song. What a lasting and meaningful gift you have left for generations of Dragons. Your legacy will continue to live on through the spirit, pride and traditions of Tiffin University.” 15

CAMPUS SCENE

of Champions is the newest event to celebrate the champions of Tiffin’s past and present and to look toward the future. This night offered silent and live auctions, raffles, food, drinks, exciting games and activities to continue to fund TU championship athletics and academic programs in the future. The Night of Champions also recognized talented student-athletes who earned championships/awards during the 20242025 academic year, the 2005 softball and men’s track and field teams, who both won American Midwest Conference Titles and the 2025 Hall of Fame inductees who were enshrined in a special ceremony that morning.

1 - Tiffin University Led NCAA Division II in D2 ADA Academic Achievement Awards with Record 300 Honorees Tiffin University led all NCAA Division II institutions with a record 300 studentathletes earning recognition in the Division 2 Athletics Directors Association (D2 ADA) Academic Achievement Awards. The Dragons 300 honorees set a new school record and placed TU at the top of the national list, surpassing second-place Colorado Mesa University with 280. The University of Findlay was the only other Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) institution among the national Top 14, finishing with 241 honorees. Only 14 schools nationwide had 200 or more studentathletes recognized. This achievement marks the second time TU has led the G-MAC in total selections. The Dragons placed fourth nationally in 2023-24 and previously reached eighth in 2021-22.

4 - Tiffin University Hosted Sports Media and Marketing Conference and Presentation by International Media Personality Margriet de Schutter

2 - Tiffin University Expands DragonNext Program with Northwest State Community College Partnership Tiffin University signed a memorandum of understanding with Northwest State Community College, adding the institution as the ninth DragonNext partner. The DragonNext program allows community college students to transfer seamlessly into TU bachelor’s degree programs. Courses align between the two institutions, and students receive support from counselors at both schools. DragonNext participants also have access to career services, libraries, tutoring, athletics and student activities at each campus, as well as eligibility for grants, loans and work study programs. Students completing an associate degree at Northwest State can finish a TU bachelor’s degree with no more than 60 additional credit hours.

Tiffin University welcomed Margriet de Schutter, an international media personality and former elite speed skating competitor from The Netherlands for two public events. De Schutter presented to students “The Secret Balance of Champions,” an inspiring discussion about life after elite sport, mental health and the pursuit of balance beyond competition. The following day, Tiffin University hosted its annual Sports Media and Marketing Conference. The conference, themed “Shaping the Future of Sports Communication,” brought together more than a dozen industry professionals, students and faculty from Tiffin University and surrounding colleges for a day of insight, innovation and networking. One of the featured speakers was Bobb Vergiels, retired broadcaster who worked with the Toledo Mud Hens, Toledo Walleye, Detroit Tigers, NFL and more. Throughout the week, de Schutter was joined by former Olympian, Dr. Liston Bochette. Bochette served as a visiting professor speaking with classes, athletic teams and faculty about leadership, sport diplomacy and global engagement.

3 - Tiffin University Hosted Night of Champions during 2025 Homecoming and Family Weekend Tiffin University’s 2025 Homecoming and Family Weekend was culminated with the Night of Champions. Alumni, friends, parents and community members were invited to attend. The Night 16

traditional fine art. His work not only redefines what art can be made from but also invites viewers to reconsider the relationship between consumption, creativity and sustainability.

5 - Tiffin University’s LIFE@TU Program Hosted Bonus Session: A Conversation with President Emeritus Dr. George Kidd, Jr. Tiffin University hosted a special LIFE@TU Bonus Session, Building a Legacy: The Story of Tiffin University’s Transformation, featuring President Emeritus Dr. George Kidd, Jr. The event welcomed back Dr. Kidd, whose leadership marked one of the most pivotal chapters in Tiffin University’s history. During the conversation, Dr. Kidd shared firsthand stories of the challenges he faced, the bold decisions that shaped TU’s future and the extraordinary people who helped bring the University’s vision to life. The event also highlighted The George Kidd Presidential Initiatives Endowment, with more than $400,000 given and pledged to support innovation, creativity, transformation, growth and entrepreneurial initiatives led by Tiffin University’s president.

7 - Tiffin University Celebrated National FirstGeneration College Student Day Tiffin University proudly announced its continued celebration of the annual National First-Generation College Student Day. The event featured a panel of TU alumni, faculty and staff who were first-generation college students themselves. These speakers shared personal stories, advice and encouragement with current students. The keynote speaker was Bethani Burkhart, TU alumna and former Director of the Career Services. Panelists included Nicholas Reinhard, Assistant Professor of Sociology and Faculty Advisor for First-Generation Dragons; Shannon De Clute, Professor of Psychology; Kerry L. Jones, Coordinator of Assessment and Advisor for First-Generation Dragons and Jamie Marinis, Assistant Professor of English and Advisor for FirstGeneration Dragons. As part of the celebration, multiple scholarships were awarded to first-generation students.

6 - Tiffin University’s Diane Kidd Gallery Hosted “Rags to R!ches” by Artist R!ch Cihlar

8 - TU Chapter of the Ohio Innocence Project Presented: Ohio Innocence Project Fellows and the Anatomy of an Exoneration Case Tiffin University welcomed Megan Hasson and Madisen Zent as they shared their experiences working as Ohio Innocence Project (OIP) Fellows at the University of Cincinnati College of Law. OIP has a staff of six lawyers to investigate and litigate hundreds of wrongful conviction claims each year. Each year the Ohio Innocence Project at the University of Cincinnati College of Law selects a team of 20 law students to serve as Legal Fellows. Supervised by seasoned clinical professors, OIP Fellows do the work of real lawyers – from interviewing witnesses and drafting motions to collecting evidence and seeking DNA testing on behalf of their clients. Since 2003, OIP fellows have worked to achieve the release of 25 inmates who were innocent of their alleged crimes. To someone who is in prison for a crime(s) they did not commit, these Fellows represent their last hope – someone to advocate and believe in them and fight for them when no one else will.

The Diane Kidd Gallery at Tiffin University proudly presented Rags to R!ches, a solo exhibition by Cleveland-based contemporary pop artist R!ch Cihlar. Rags to R!ches celebrates transformation—both in material and meaning. Playing off his name, R!ch, and the discarded materials he works with, Cihlar reimagines cardboard, wood and found objects into bold, layered works of art. His process combines the visual language of street art and pop art, executed through meticulously hand-cut stencils and layered spray paint. Each image reflects his background in printmaking and design while exploring themes of memory, environment and value. Cihlar’s dynamic and resourceful approach challenges the conventions of 17

Initiatives Endowment, Dragon Pantry, Student Emergency Fund, Dragon Armoire and Counseling & Wellness Center. Looking ahead, TU will once again take part in GivingTuesday on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, continuing the global tradition of generosity and support for causes that make a meaningful impact.

9 - Tiffin University Celebrated 30 Years of Music Excellence with Commemorative EP Release Tiffin University proudly marked the 30th anniversary of its Music Department with the release of a special six-song EP. The TiffinMusic 30th Anniversary EP featured current students performing songs that blend nostalgia with fresh interpretations, with each track paying tribute to a distinct five-year period of TiffinMusic history. Tracks included: 1995– 1999: “Lovefool” featuring Up in the Air, 2000–2004: “Hey Ya” featuring TMS Allstars, 2005–2009: “White Winter Hymnal” featuring Smoke Signals, 2010–2014: “On My Mind” featuring Word on the Street, 2015–2019: “Sunday Candy” featuring inDifferent Places and 2020– 2025: “Please, Please, Please” featuring Higher Ground. The TiffinMusic 30th Anniversary EP is available for streaming on all major platforms including Amazon, Apple, Spotify and YouTube.

12 - Tiffin University and the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland Presented Global Award in Sport Education

Tiffin University, in collaboration with the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland (AUS), presented the 2025 Sport Education Global Impact Award to Professor Franco Ascani, President of the Fédération Internationale Cinéma Télévision Sportifs (FICTS) and member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Commission for Culture and Olympic Heritage. The presentation took place during the International Sport Film Festival in Milan, Italy. The award was presented during the closing ceremonies by Dr. Bonnie Tiell, Professor of Sport Management at Tiffin University and Dr. Liston Bochette, former Olympian and member of TU’s Sport Management Advisory Council. The Sport Education Global Impact Award recognizes individuals or organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to promoting accessible, high-quality sport learning experiences across diverse cultural and international contexts. Professor Ascani was honored for his leadership in advancing sport education and media through the FICTS network, particularly his efforts to lead educational initiatives in conjunction with the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy.

10 - Tiffin University Presented 2025 Christmas at The Ritz Holiday Concert Tiffin University presented its annual “Christmas at The Ritz” holiday concert at The Ritz Theatre. Tiffin University choirs and bands were joined by the TU Dance Team, TU funk band “Word on the Street,” vocal groups “Up in the Air” and “Higher Ground,” indie band “No Rain,” hip hop group “inDifferent Places,” the TU Rock Lab and two new groups, the musical theatre ensemble “Spotlight,” and the original music ensemble “ArCo” (Artist Collective). The concert was made possible through the generosity of sponsors Superior Credit Union and Rivetica. The 2026 Christmas at The Ritz concert will take place Saturday, December 5 at 7 p.m. at The Ritz Theatre in Tiffin.

13 - Tiffin University Student Organizations Teamed Up to Support Local Food Bank Tiffin University students joined forces to make a difference in the

11 - Tiffin University Participated in Giving Tuesday Movement Tiffin University participated in the annual GivingTuesday campaign, inviting donors to support areas across campus including the Dr. George Kidd Presidential 18

community during a week-long campus food drive organized by the Business Club. Partnering with CRU, the Accounting & Finance Club, the Violent Crimes Analysis Fellowship, Phi Theta Phi fraternity and other student organizations, the drive collected more than 600 nonperishable food items. Throughout the week, student organizations worked together to promote the initiative, set up collection boxes across campus and raise awareness about food insecurity in the region. Their collaboration not only generated an impressive number of donations but also strengthened connections among student groups united by a shared commitment to service. All items collected were donated to The Salvation Army of Tiffin to support families and individuals in need.

body was found in a Huron County cornfield, showing signs of foul play. Despite extensive investigation, the case has remained unsolved for more than 25 years. The Fellowship’s involvement, now featured on the podcast, demonstrated how student-led investigation can contribute to real-world criminal justice efforts and potentially uncover new leads. All eight episodes are available to stream on Spotify, Apple and Amazon. 16 - Tiffin University Hosted Fifth Annual Virtual Sport and Fitness Showcase Tiffin University’s School of Business hosted the fifth annual Virtual Sport and Fitness Showcase. The showcase opened with a keynote address from Tracy Marek, Chief Marketing Officer for the Lake Erie Crushers and former CEO of U.S. Figure Skating. Marek previously spent 19 years with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse and was named to Forbes Magazine’s “50 Over 50” list in 2023. Following the keynote address, attendees had the opportunity to participate in breakout sessions led by professionals representing a wide range of organizations and career areas. Topics included professional sports sales, athlete representation, stadium and arena operations, women in sports, digital storytelling, brand partnerships and more. Sessions were moderated by Tiffin University students and featured professionals from Major League Baseball organizations, Athletes Unlimited, NFLPA certified agencies and other industry leaders.

14 - Tiffin University Received Collegiate Purple Star Designation Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) announced that Tiffin University had been named a Collegiate Purple Star campus. The Collegiate Purple Star designation honors institutions that maintain dedicated military and veteran support offices, offer priority registration for veterans and servicemembers, assess the needs of military-connected students and their families and support student-led groups for veterans and servicemembers. Ohio became the first state in the nation to offer the Collegiate Purple Star designation when it was launched in 2022. TU joined 50 other Ohio Collegiate Purple Star award winners this year. Through these winning campuses, servicemembers, veterans and military-connected students are able to pursue higher education knowing that their school has the necessary support system and guidance to help them find their next steps.

17 - Tiffin University Launched Master of Science in Nursing Program Tiffin University expanded its graduate offerings with the addition of a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, marking an exciting step as the University enters the professional healthcare education space and responds to growing workforce demand for advanced nursing credentials. Designed for working registered nurses seeking career advancement and leadership opportunities, the MSN program is offered fully online and includes a 500-hour practicum requirement. Tiffin University also offers two dual degree options that combine nursing leadership with advanced business expertise. The MSN/MBA dual

15 - Tiffin University’s Cold Case Fellowship Gained National Recognition Through Top 10 True-Crime Podcast of 2025 Tiffin University’s Cold Case Fellowship received national recognition after being featured on Culpable, named one of Spotify’s Editor’s Picks Top 10 Best Podcasts of 2025. The podcast features current TU students in the Fellowship, as well as Fellowship Director Dr. Michael Curtis. Culpable was also named a True Crime Editors’ Pick and listed among the Best Podcasts of the Week by Amazon Music. The case focuses on Danny Violette, who disappeared in the fall of 1998. Eleven days later, his 19

degree program in health systems administration with a concentration in healthcare administration is a 48-credit hour program designed for nurses pursuing executive and administrative leadership roles within healthcare organizations.

20 - Tiffin University Expanded DragonNext Program with Lakeland Community College and Stark State College Partnerships Tiffin University expanded its DragonNext program with the addition of Lakeland Community College and Stark State College, bringing the total number of partner schools to 11. The new partnerships with Lakeland and Stark State exemplify TU’s ongoing effort to broaden access to higher education and support student success across the region. To be eligible, students must be pursuing an associate degree at a partner community college and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Beginning fall 2026, students attending classes on TU’s main campus received an $18,000 merit scholarship, while online students are eligible for an up to $150 off per credit hour discount.

18 - Tiffin University Online Criminal Justice Programs Ranked Among U.S. News & World Report’s Top 50 2026 Best Online Programs U.S. News & World Report ranked Tiffin University’s online degree programs among the nation’s top offerings, highlighting the University’s commitment to accessible, high-quality online education. The rankings placed Tiffin University at No. 48 (tie) for Criminal Justice and No. 13 for Veterans – Criminal Justice, recognizing programs that provide flexible options for working adults, military-affiliated students and others pursuing nontraditional paths to a degree.

21 - Tiffin University Presented “Stories of Strength” Musical Theatre Cabaret

19 - Tiffin University’s Diane Kidd Gallery Hosted “The Waiting Room” by Eileen Woods The Diane Kidd Gallery at Tiffin University presented The Waiting Room, a solo exhibition by Ohio-based artist Eileen Woods. Guests had the opportunity to meet the artist and engage with her work. The Waiting Room, rooted in Woods’ personal experiences surrounding major surgery and the extended periods spent in sterile, transitional environments where time appears suspended. The exhibition explored themes of vulnerability, time and human fragility through an intimate series of portraits inspired by moments spent in hospital waiting rooms. Each portrait in the series was drawn from life and based on photographs Woods personally took of individuals absorbed in thought, focused on their phones or quietly staring into space. The compositions are intentionally minimal, featuring stark white walls and lightly rendered furniture in graphite to reflect the impersonal atmosphere of medical waiting rooms. Clocks appear in every work, either as functional objects or collaged fabric elements, serving as reminders of time’s relentless passage and the fragile balance between life and death.

Tiffin University’s music and theatre students presented “Stories of Strength,” a musical theatre cabaret. “Stories of Strength” explores how individuals respond to challenges, change and adversity. The program highlighted the many ways strength is expressed across different experiences and perspectives. Featured performances of well-known musical theatre songs alongside brief personal reflections, “Stories of Strength” brings together music and storytelling to examine resilience, perseverance and growth. Rather than presenting a single definition of strength, the cabaret showcases a range of viewpoints, emphasizing that strength can take many forms. The performance offered an engaging evening of musical theatre that connects narrative and song, inviting audiences to experience familiar material in a new context.

attire and career readiness tools available through the Dragon Armoire, helping ensure students have the support they need to succeed inside and outside the classroom.

22 - Tiffin University’s Ohio Innocence Project Chapter Hosted Guest Speaker Robert McClendon Tiffin University’s undergraduate chapter of the Ohio Innocence Project (OIP) hosted guest speaker Robert McClendon. McClendon spent 17 years in prison for crimes he did not commit. He shared his story and answered questions about his wrongful conviction. He was convicted in 1991 of kidnapping and raping his 10-year-old daughter, based largely on her testimony and allegations that he failed a polygraph test. Although he maintained his innocence, he was sentenced August 28, 1991, to 15 years to life in prison. Courts denied his requests for DNA testing three times. The Ohio Innocence Project later reviewed his case in collaboration with reporters from The Columbus Dispatch. In April 2008, DNA testing excluded McClendon as the source, and he was released August 12, 2008, after serving nearly 17 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. After his release, McClendon was looking for a recreational activity that was comparable to the game of horseshoes he played while in prison. He discovered cornhole and has gone on to become one of the top ranked senior amateurs in the state. For the past three years, McClendon has shared his enthusiasm for cornhole with TU students at Springfest.

24 - Tiffin University’s Diane Kidd Gallery Hosted “Conservation Through a Lens” The Diane Kidd Gallery at Tiffin University hosted “Conservation through a Lens,” a powerful wildlife photography exhibition featuring the work of photographers Justin Grubb and Alex Goetz of Running Wild Media. The gallery featured 37 striking large-format metal prints, with primary pieces measuring 48″ x 36″ in a matte finish, paired with complementary 24″ x 12″ metal prints that provide additional perspective and depth. Each photograph captured wildlife in its natural habitat or the biologists and caretakers dedicated to protecting these species. Accompanying each piece was a thoughtfully designed interpretive panel detailing the conservation organization involved, the species’ historic and current range, threats to survival, IUCN status and tangible actions being taken to protect it. Visitors will also find practical ways to support conservation efforts. To deepen engagement, QR codes throughout the exhibition connected guests to related films, audio stories and articles produced by Running Wild Media, allowing audiences to explore each species’ world beyond the frame. Artist talks and workshops were offered throughout the duration of the exhibition.

23 - Tiffin University Hosted Dragons Unite Giving Campaign Tiffin University hosted Dragons Unite, a 24hour giving campaign designed to support programs and initiatives that enhance the student experience. The daylong event invited alumni, friends and community members to make a gift to the campus club, organization or priority area of their choice. Participating groups included multicultural organizations, academic clubs, Greek life chapters, service organizations and others, allowing donors to direct their support to the areas that matter most to them. Funds raised during Dragons Unite expanded opportunities for student involvement, leadership development and community engagement. Contributions also supported key resources such as the Dragon Pantry, scholarship assistance and professional

25 - TU’s Alpha Phi Sigma Presented Bridge4Change Foundation Founder Tiffin University’s Criminal Justice Honor Society, Alpha Phi Sigma, hosted guest speaker Ashish Agarwal. Agarwal led a workshop on mindfulness and environmental sustainability, exploring climate change and the “Yes! I am Mindful” Movement. Agarwal is the Founder of the Bridge4Change Foundation, a Gandhian and a champion of systemic change. After completing his MBA, Agarwal founded Paryavaran Mitra, dedicated to empowering rag-picking communities through holistic solid waste management initiatives. In recent years, he has been promoting mindful consumption as a pathway to achieving sustainable personal wellbeing. As part of his commitment, he has been living 21

with only 33 personal items for over four years. He has conducted talks and workshops in India, the United Kingdom and the U.S. He has authored two books “Demystified” and “Eco-Bliss.”

has built a vibrant national and international fan base. During FestiVOX, the quartet also served as adjudicators and clinicians for participating high school ensembles. The concert opened with performances by Tiffin University’s vocal groups Higher Ground and Up in the Air, highlighting the strength of TU’s commercial vocal program.

26 - Tiffin University’s School of Business Hosted 14th Annual Summit to Success Tiffin University’s School of Business hosted its 14th Annual Summit to Success in March. Bryce Riggs, President and CEO of the Seneca County Collaborative was the featured morning keynote speaker. Riggs leads the unified organization advancing business advocacy, economic development, tourism promotion and downtown revitalization across Seneca County. In 2025, he received the Michael A. Schultz Professional of the Year Award from the Chamber Professionals of Ohio, the Emerging Leader Award from the Ohio Travel Association and the Young Alumni Achievement Award from Tiffin University. Breakout sessions following the keynote were facilitated by multiple speakers from varying industries that include marketing, sports management, finance and accounting and more. The afternoon keynote speaker, Jamie Campbell, is the current President of Aurora Health Care Medical Center Kenosha and Medical Center in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin. She is seasoned in healthcare systemization, change management and implementing strategies that achieve organizational goals to improve safety, quality and patient experience.

28 - Tiffin University Receives Gold Designation as Military Friendly® School Tiffin University has been named a 2026-2027 Military Friendly® School. The designation was made by the Military Friendly® organization after surveying levels of satisfaction among qualifying military and/ or veteran students. TU has been recognized as a gold institution. The gold designation is awarded to colleges and universities that not only meet Military Friendly®’s rigorous standards but also score highly on student satisfaction surveys. To earn this distinction, TU’s military and veteran approval ratings fell within 10% of the 10th-ranked school in the same category. TU has also been recognized as a 2026-27 Military Spouse Friendly® School. Based on data analysis from federal agencies and proprietary surveys, this recognition highlights Tiffin University’s continued commitment to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for military spouses pursuing their education. 29 - Tiffin University Hosted 35th Annual International Dinner and Flag Ceremony Tiffin University hosted the 35th Annual International Dinner in April. This year’s theme was “One World, Many Stories.” The dinner honors TU’s international students, representing 36 countries, and highlights the shared experiences and connections that unite cultures. Guests can enjoy buffet-style cuisine from around the globe, along with musical and artistic performances. The event also included TU’s annual flag ceremony, honoring new and returning international students. Students presented their national flag to the President and flags are displayed at important University events throughout the year.

27 - Red Letter Daze Headlines March Concert at The Ritz Theatre in Tiffin The acclaimed vocal quartet Red Letter Daze performed at the Ritz Theatre, serving as the finale to Tiffin University’s FestiVOX, an annual festival celebrating contemporary, pop and jazz vocal music. Formed in 2020, Red Letter Daze has rapidly emerged as a standout in the a cappella world. The CARA winning quartet—MaryAnne Muglia, Celine Durney, Darby Lestin and Emily Drum—is known for its intricate harmonies, dynamic vocal styles and fresh pop driven sound. With more than 300,000 followers and millions of views across social media, the group 22

defined dual-enrollment and “bridge” pathways that allow students to begin graduate-level coursework earlier, transfer credits efficiently between programs and transition seamlessly into advanced degrees.

30 - Tiffin University’s Dragon Flight Fellowship Tests Lunch Delivery Service

32 - Tiffin University Earned National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Designation Through 2031 Tiffin University has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) through the 2031 academic year, recognizing the University’s excellence in cybersecurity education and its commitment to preparing the next generation of cyber professionals. The designation is part of the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) program, managed by the National Security Agency (NSA) in partnership with several federal agencies. The program is designed to create and sustain a collaborative cybersecurity education framework among colleges and Universities nationwide, ensuring academic programs meet rigorous national standards and produce a highly skilled workforce. Through this designation, Tiffin University joins the CAE in Cybersecurity (CAE-C) Community, an organized network of colleges and universities that have earned recognition through the NCAE-C program. The CAE-C Community actively engages with government representatives to provide educational workshops, opportunities for funding, conferences and working groups.

Tiffin University’s Dragon Flight Fellowship reached a new technological milestone by successfully testing lunch delivery by drone on campus. The initiative, conducted in partnership with on-campus restaurant Wall St. Pub and Grille, marks a significant step forward in practical applications for unmanned systems. The inaugural delivery featured a lunch prepared by Wall St. Pub and Grille, specifically ordered for Tiffin University’s Provost and Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Peter J. Holbrook. Students within the University’s Dragon Flight Fellowship executed the flight, showcasing their hands-on training and technical expertise. Following the success of this initial test, program coordinators and the Dragon Flight Fellowship are in active discussions with Wall St. Pub and Grille to expand the service. The proposed expansion would bring drone food delivery directly to students at campus dormitories during select evenings this fall. 31 - Tiffin University and Heidelberg University Collaborate to Strengthen Higher Education Opportunities for Students In a significant expansion of cross-institutional collaboration, Heidelberg University (HU) and Tiffin University (TU) formalized five new academic partnership agreements designed to expand student opportunity, streamline degree completion and meet critical workforce needs in communities here at home and across the region. The agreements, effective beginning with the fall 2026 semester and extending through the 2031 academic year, establish structured pathways across counseling, criminal justice, teacher education and nursing. Together, they reflect a shared commitment to highdemand academic programming, student mobility and ongoing institutional collaboration. Through these partnerships, both TU and HU will now offer clearly

33 - Tiffin University Hosted 2026 Summer Camps Tiffin University hosted its 2026 summer camps, inviting middle and high school students to explore their interests and experience college life firsthand through a series of six immersive, hands-on programs designed to inspire academic curiosity, creativity and career exploration. The camps were led by experienced faculty and staff and provide students with learning opportunities across a variety of disciplines. Participants engaged in real-world applications, built skills and gained insight into potential career paths while connecting with peers in a supportive, collegelevel environment. At the NextGen Technology Camp, participants explored areas including PC hardware, OSINT (Open Source Intelligence), cryptography, 23

password cracking, drone basics, digital forensics and robotics, while also taking part in supervised evening activities such as esports tournaments and social events. During the Forensic Science Academy Camp, campers learned principles and tactics to assist criminal investigations through chemistry, biology and analyzing real and recent crime scenes from coroners across the country. They worked in small groups with high-level TU professors with field experience alongside experts currently working in the fields of crime scene analysis, fire forensics, blood spatter, forensic biology and forensic chemistry. At the Music Industry Camp, working in small ensembles and production teams, campers each took the lead in the creation of original pop, rock, r&b and hip hop music, a cappella arrangements and solo and group performances. They also received private instruction and solo coachings, and participated in workshops on topics key to success on stage and in the studio. The artist-in-residence was Haley Schattschneider, a Nashville-based vocalist and production manager working in jazz, gospel and commercial music. The Middle School Robotics High School Robotics Camp were both hosted by Tiffin University’s Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Center. Participants were introduced to robotics and basic coding while working in teams to complete robot missions. Activities included navigation challenges, obstacle courses and problem-solving tasks using tools such as Sphero BOLT and Dobot Magician Lite, along with demonstrations of advanced robotics systems. The Cold Case Camp acquainted participants with cold case work and introduced them to the many concepts involved in the solving of cold cases. They were exposed to both mock and real cold cases in a hands-on capacity, received lessons in victimology and suspectology in the solving of cold cases, and learned basic investigation and data analysis techniques.

around real-time decision making, team dynamics and leadership under pressure. The students were enrolled in the University’s new Entrepreneurship minor course, Creativity and Innovation (ENT 210), or were members of the Innovation Fellowship. The competition, supported by the Management and Organizational Behavior Teaching Society (MOBTS), provided students with practical leadership experiences designed to prepare them for the workplace. Throughout the competition, teams of students worked through multiple challenges that required them to use creative problem solving, followership, navigating stress, influencing others, leadership styles and team dynamics. Judges evaluated both the teams’ results and the processes they used, including communication, collaboration and emotional intelligence, which are core competencies emphasized in the CLC curriculum. Throughout their preparation and competition experience, the students were coached and mentored by Dr. Vince Palombo, Associate Professor of Management, who guided them as they developed their leadership approach and navigated the challenges of the competition. Tiffin competitors included Sydney Deckert, Senior, Business Management; Twain Huynh, Junior, Business Management; Justin Murillo, Sophomore, Business Management; Zavion Penrice, Senior, Criminalistics; Zaiden Smith, Sophomore, Finance; and Jared Vrabel, Junior, Business Management. 35 - Tiffin University 2026 Spring Semester Dean’s List Tiffin University proudly recognized 953 undergraduate students who were awarded Dean’s List honors for the spring 2026 semester. This distinction celebrates outstanding academic achievement and a strong commitment to excellence in the classroom. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher while completing at least 12 credit hours. This achievement reflects consistent effort, focus and dedication throughout the semester.

34 - Tiffin University Students Compete in Southeast Regional Collegiate Leadership Competition

36 - Tiffin University Awarded Choose Ohio First Grant Tiffin University has been awarded $544,000 in Choose Ohio First funding for fiscal year 2027 through the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

Six Tiffin University students traveled to Berry College to compete in the Collegiate Leadership Competition Southeast Regional, stepping into a setting built 24

Choose Ohio First is a state-funded scholarship and workforce development initiative that recruits, retains and supports students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields at Ohio’s public and independent colleges and Universities. The program is designed to strengthen Ohio’s talent pipeline by increasing the number of graduates prepared for high-demand careers in science, technology and innovation-driven industries. The award will support Tiffin University student scholarships and academic initiatives designed to expand access and success in STEM programs. The grant will also advance student achievement, hands-on learning experience and career readiness in these disciplines. 37 - Tiffin University Business Programs Earn ACBSP Reaffirmation of Accreditation Tiffin University has received reaffirmation of accreditation for its business programs from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) following action by the Baccalaureate/Graduate Degree Board of Commissioners during its April meeting. The reaffirmation recognizes the University’s continued commitment to quality business education and continuous improvement across its undergraduate and graduate business offerings. Founded in 1988, ACBSP is a global business education accrediting body dedicated to improving the quality of business schools and programs worldwide through outcomes-based accreditation focused on teaching excellence and continuous improvement.

Impact Shirt Revealed For the sixth year in a row, the Tiffin University impact shirt is available! The TU Impact Shirt is an exclusive, one-of-akind 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 Last Mile Endowment will be the focus. The Last Mile Endowment provides critical financial support to qualified students by helping remove account holds caused by unpaid balances.

38 - Tiffin University Hosts Annual Athletic Golf Outing Tiffin University’s Athletic Department hosted its 19th Annual TU Athletics Golf Outing in June at Mohawk Golf and Country Club. The annual outing brought together alumni, community members, local businesses and supporters of TU Athletics for a day of golf benefiting Tiffin University student-athletes. Proceeds from the event helped enhance the studentathlete experience through investments in facilities, travel and apparel. Participants played 18 holes of golf while enjoying food and beverages on the course. The event also featured games and contests with prizes, followed by awards. Tiffin University coaches and athletic staff were present throughout the day. The event receipted over $65,000 for TU Athletics.

GET THEM BEFORE THEY ARE GONE, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. Scan the QR code to order your Impact Shirt! 25

BEYOND THE REJECTION:

A JOURNEY OF PERSISTENCE he believes the setbacks, rejections and long nights of uncertainty were part of a larger lesson: growth comes from meeting challenges head-on.

For Tiffin University alumnus Badal Sharma ‘25, success did not begin with a job offer. It began with uncertainty. After spending months trying to secure a visa appointment, Badal arrived in the United States just in time for his first day of class at Tiffin University, missing orientation and stepping onto campus without knowing where to go or what to expect. Without permanent housing, he initially commuted from the Cleveland area while learning to navigate a new country, academic system and the challenges faced by international students.

In his own words, Badal Sharma reflects on that journey and the persistence that carried him through: I would like to begin my story with a profound sentiment from Mother Teresa that perfectly encapsulates my journey: “Life is a challenge; meet it.” To every student and alum reading this, I share this advice: do not fear challenges. Instead, face them and keep facing them until you reach the excellence you deserve.

Along the way, he found mentors in the classroom and opportunities to grow beyond it. Faculty members challenged him to master not only the technical skills that would shape his career, but also the values of integrity, discipline and accountability. He credits professors such as Dr. Tom Marben, Dr. Maria Barulina, Dr. Terry Sullivan and Dr. Shane Parendo with helping build the foundation he now uses every day in his work.

My journey as an international student in the U.S. began with a mountain of rejections. I didn’t have a roadmap for how things worked, but I had one unwavering resolve: I would try, and keep trying, until I achieved my vision. My first on-campus job application didn’t even pass the automated screening software. However, that failure taught me a vital lesson: talent is invisible if it isn’t presented correctly. I mastered the art of tailoring my resume, communicating my value and increasing the knowledge span, but even then, luck and timing weren’t always on my side.

Outside the classroom, Badal embraced campus life, participating in student activities, supporting fellow international students and helping others navigate similar obstacles. Whether learning the expectations of standard research-paper format, organizing informational sessions about employment opportunities or sharing advice with classmates, he became an active part of the campus community.

Rather than stopping, I chose to learn. I realized that no matter how skillful you are, if you cannot effectively showcase those skills, you will never reach your destination. It took me eight months to land a small, six-hour-a-week job on campus. Many would have given up, but I used that time to explore my options and refine my strategy. Despite the complexities of visa regulations and the frustration of seeing opportunities slip away, I kept pushing, I refused to be discouraged. I stayed focused on my growth, eventually clearing interviews so successfully that I held nine full-time job offers before I even graduated; my persistence eventually paid off.

A Tiffin University degree became more than a credential for Badal. It was an entry point into a new life and a reminder that resilience, curiosity and a commitment to doing the right thing can create opportunities far beyond what once seemed possible. Today, he serves as a senior business I.T. system and data analyst at Progressive Insurance. Looking back,

Finally, it’s time to choose one. I “hit the nail on the head” 26

and joined Swiss Re, the world’s largest reinsurance company, as an assistant vice president. Then I graduated with distinction; From that milestone, I never looked back. I later had the honor of serving the military community at USAA as a senior I.T. consultant and lead business analyst. Today, I am proud to be a senior I.T. business system and data analyst at Progressive Insurance, a leader in industry and one of the top global insurers. From walking the frozen streets of Tiffin in -8°F weather to now commuting in the comfort of a Land Rover, I have seen my life transform in a remarkably short span of time. This is the true power of persistence and determination. My message to you is simple: never stop when you encounter a challenge. Success isn’t found by avoiding obstacles, but by having the courage to walk through them. Every challenge you face is a steppingstone. If you see a wall, don’t turn back. Scale it. Keep going; your success is waiting on the other side. In a world where looking away has become the norm, a helping hand or a genuine support is a rare benediction and treasure, Manisha Mishra stepped forward with unwavering support, resolute confidence, dedication and grace. I am incredibly grateful to her for standing by me and anchoring me, and I extend my heartfelt blessings to Angel and Sayesha for treating me with the kinship of a true family. My heart aches missing you, Tara. Please forgive me for not watching you grow; I missed the fleeting magic of your childhood, but every moment away was a sacrifice spent trying to build a beautiful future for us.

For 24 hours, the Tiffin University community will come together to make a lasting impact during the annual Dragons Unite giving campaign on Friday, March 12, 2027. This campaign will support the clubs, organizations and student-focused programs that help shape the Dragon experience. Gifts provide opportunities for leadership development, professional growth, campus involvement and access to valuable student resources. Alumni, friends and supporters can direct their gifts to the area that matters most to them, creating meaningful opportunities for current students and future generations of Dragons. Join the TU community and make an impact at givingday.tiffin.edu.

TIFFIN SOCIETY

JOIN A COMMUNITY OF LEADERS INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF TIFFIN UNIVERSITY The Tiffin Society brings together supporters who share a commitment to advancing Tiffin University and creating meaningful opportunities for its students. Through their generosity and leadership, more than 300 members help strengthen the University’s mission and make a lasting difference across campus.

the collective impact of philanthropic support at TU. One of the evening’s highlights was the announcement of the John and Susie Kinn Endowed Scholarship, a lasting investment in student success and a tribute to the Kinn family’s enduring support of Tiffin University and the surrounding community.

Annual gifts from Tiffin Society members support scholarships, academic programs, student organizations, campus improvements and other areas that enhance the student experience. Whether helping a student afford a TU education, providing resources for hands-on learning or supporting the programs that make campus life memorable, each member plays an important role in moving the University forward.

By joining the Tiffin Society, supporters become part of a dedicated group helping shape the future of TU. Every gift contributes to opportunities that allow students to learn, grow and prepare for successful lives and careers. Membership begins with an annual gift of $1,000, and special introductory giving levels are available for recent TU alumni. TU also proudly recognizes members whose lifetime giving exceeds $100,000 for their extraordinary commitment to the continued growth and success of the University.

In addition to the impact of their giving, Tiffin Society members are invited to exclusive events and opportunities to connect with University leadership, students and fellow supporters. These experiences include the annual Tiffin Society Dinner, the Donor Picnic, a special hospitality tent during the Homecoming football game and reserved seating for Christmas at The Ritz.

To learn more about joining the Tiffin Society, contact Mikki King at 419.448.3443 or kingmr@tiffin.edu.

This year’s Tiffin Society Dinner, held in May, welcomed record attendance and celebrated

TU TRAVELS

TAKE FLIGHT WITH TIFFIN UNIVERSITY TU Travels continues to expand opportunities for alumni, students, families and friends of the University to experience global learning beyond the classroom. Looking ahead, TU invites the community to join the next international adventure:

This summer, TU Travels took over 20 participants across the pond for an unforgettable international experience in London and Paris. Travelers explored iconic London landmarks including Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Tower Bridge. From a guided city tour to a West End theatre performance, afternoon tea and even a hands-on cricket class at Lord’s Cricket Ground, participants experienced the city through both cultural tradition and modern life. The group also ventured to Kensington Palace and enjoyed a scenic Eurostar crossing beneath the English Channel en route to Paris.

Riviera Maya, Mexico, March 15-19, 2027 Planned in partnership with TU alumna Heather Hunker, owner of Global Getaways Travel Design, this exclusive adults-only experience offers the perfect blend of relaxation, connection and adventure. Your all-inclusive package includes round-trip airfare, airport transfers, accommodations, meals, drinks and more, allowing you to simply arrive and enjoy.

In Paris, the experience continued with immersive sightseeing and hands-on exploration. Travelers visited Île de la Cité, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Latin Quarter and the Eiffel Tower, while also enjoying a guided tour of Versailles, the Louvre Museum and Montmartre. Highlights included a Seine River cruise, a cooking class, scavenger hunt on Île de la Cité and breathtaking views from the Eiffel Tower ascent. Each day offered a balance of guided learning, cultural immersion and local cuisine.

Reconnect with fellow alumni, friends and members of the TU community while making new memories at the luxurious Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya.

Riviera Maya, Mexico March 15-19, 2027 To lean more, contact Andrea Gibson at gibsonaj@tiffin.edu.

Switzerland & Germany June 14-24, 2028 The experience begins in Zurich before continuing to Lucerne, where participants have the opportunity to explore Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the city’s historic squares. In Lucerne, travelers will enjoy a Swiss chocolate workshop, nuclear bunker tour and a traditional fondue dinner. A highlight of the Switzerland 30

Switzerland & Germany June 14-24, 2028 portion includes a visit to Tiffin University’s partner institution, the American Institute of Applied Sciences (AUS) in La Tour-de-Peilz.

To lean more, contact Jamie Marinis at marinisjl@tiffin.edu.

From Switzerland, the group will travel through Liechtenstein en route to Innsbruck, Austria, where participants will explore Old Town and the Golden Roof, followed by visits to the Swarovski Crystal Museum and Hofburg Imperial Palace. The journey then continues into Germany, featuring Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau, a guided tour of Munich with stops at Marienplatz and 1972 Olympia Park, a brewery tasting and a visit to Dachau Concentration Camp and Memorial. The program concludes in Frankfurt with a city walk through the Altstadt and Römerberg before a farewell dinner. The trip includes round-trip airfare and transportation to activities in the itinerary, hotel accommodations, breakfast daily (except on arrival day), dinner as per itinerary, guided sightseeing tours and city walks as outlined in the program, and visits to select attractions throughout the journey. 31

A FULL ITINERARY AND TRIP COST IS AVAILABLE AT QR CODE ABOVE.

A CAREER BUILT ON SERVICE

RACHEL WAMSLEY ‘09 one of the greatest gifts of my college experience.”

For Rachel Wamsley ‘09, each chapter of her career has been connected by a desire to serve others and make a meaningful difference. Today, she is a neuroscience specialty representative with Alkermes, partnering with psychiatrists and other healthcare professionals across West Virginia, Ohio and Virginia to support evidence-based treatment for people living with serious mental illness.

Wamsley also found mentors who shaped her understanding of mental health, leadership and service. She credits Dr. Jonathan Appel with influencing the compassionate approach she continues to bring to her work. “His passion for mental health and his belief that recovery requires a comprehensive, compassionate approach continue to shape how I view patient care today,” she said. “Looking back, it’s incredible how those lessons have come full circle.”

“As a neuroscience specialty representative with Alkermes, I have the opportunity to combine science, education and relationship building to help healthcare providers improve the lives of people living with serious mental illness,” Wamsley said. “My career has always been centered on helping others, and I enjoy serving as a trusted resource while bringing the latest clinical information to providers. Knowing my work can ultimately benefit patients and their families is what makes this career so rewarding.”

Coach Jeremy Croy also left a lasting impression by challenging Wamsley and her teammates to push beyond their perceived limitations. “He had a way of pushing us beyond what we believed we were capable

The foundation for that career began at Tiffin University, where Wamsley earned a Bachelor of Criminal Justice with a major in forensic psychology and a minor in addictions counseling. She competed in cross-country and track and field and played trumpet in the marching band during her freshman year. Although her athletic experiences were an important part of her time at TU, Wamsley said the relationships she formed are what made the University feel like home. “It’s difficult to choose just one favorite memory because what I treasure most is the collection of everyday moments that made Tiffin feel like home,” she said. “Whether it was early morning runs with my cross-country teammates through Hedges-Boyer Park, celebrating after races or simply spending time with friends talking about everything and nothing at the same time, those are the memories that have stayed with me. The lifelong friendships I built at Tiffin remain

of while always expecting us to give our very best,” she said. “The lessons I learned from him reached far beyond the track and cross-country course. He taught me that success is built through consistency, discipline, 32

resilience and the choices we make every day. Looking back, I realize those principles have guided me through every stage of my life.” After graduating, Wamsley began working as a substance abuse therapist, helping individuals navigate mental health and addiction challenges. She later transitioned to Enterprise Rent-A-Car, where she developed skills in coaching, operational management and business leadership. Her background in counseling and leadership eventually led her to the pharmaceutical industry, where she held positions with Sanofi and AbbVie before joining Alkermes. Her commitment to service also led her to the West Virginia Army National Guard. Wamsley said balancing academics and athletics at TU prepared her to perform under pressure, respond to challenges and work alongside people pursuing a shared goal. “Being a studentathlete taught me discipline, resilience, accountability and the value of consistent hard work,” she said. “Those experiences became the foundation for how I approach leadership and my professional career. The lessons I learned at Tiffin carried with me throughout my service and continue to guide me today.” Rachel is now the mother of two boys who inspire her each day. Outside of work, she enjoys running, gardening and spending time outdoors. As she reflects on her journey, she remains grateful for the education, friendships and mentors that helped prepare her for a life centered on serving others. “Earning my degree from Tiffin University was one of the most important investments I ever made in myself,” Wamsley said. “Beyond the education, I am especially grateful for the lifelong friendships, mentors and opportunities that helped shape the person I am today. As always, every day is a great day to be a Dragon!”

COY BLAIR MAKES TIFFIN TRACK AND FIELD HISTORY WITH HALL OF FAME SELECTION want to, and they pushed me to reach and achieve things I didn’t think I could,” Blair said. “My teammates were the best. Having the most consistent, like-minded training partners was crucial. It was a huge joint effort.”

Coy Blair has been selected for induction into the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) Hall of Fame, becoming the first Tiffin University athlete to receive the honor. “It is such a huge honor for me to be selected and voted into the USTFCCCA Hall of Fame,” Blair said. “I am very humbled to be able to share this experience with my family as well as my TU family. It’s a true testament to how it takes a village. So many greats have come out of the program and the University as a whole. To be selected as the first is something I will cherish forever.”

Blair remains TU’s record holder in the indoor shot put, indoor weight throw and outdoor shot put and holds the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference shot put record. He finished his collegiate career with three NCAA championships, six AllAmerica honors, five First Team All-America honors and six national appearances. Blair later qualified for the 2016 and 2021 U.S. Olympic Trials, becoming the first Tiffin track and field athlete to compete at the event.

Blair began his collegiate career at Purdue University before transferring to Tiffin. His relationship with Coach Ray Robinson led him to TU. “My time at TU was monumental. I knew Coach Robinson and knew what his coaching ability was, and that’s what I needed more than anything.” Robinson’s influence extended beyond athletics. “The TU program wasn’t just about being an athlete,” he explained. “It was more so about becoming a good person and getting educated to set you up for life.”

Despite those accomplishments, Blair said he is most proud of earning his undergraduate and advanced degrees from TU and contributing to the Dragons’ team success. “Tiffin was not supposed to beat the big state schools. But we did,” he said. “Due to the relentless pursuit of advancement within the program and University, we had enough people able to break molds and stereotypes to be successful. We were unorthodox, but it worked, and we had a lot of fun.”

At Tiffin, Blair developed into one of the nation’s premier NCAA Division II throwers. During his historic 2017 season, he won the NCAA indoor and outdoor shot put championships and captured the NCAA weight throw title. He became the first athlete since 2006 to complete the shot put and weight throw double at the national level, and his outdoor victory came by more than three feet. “I had older siblings that excelled in track, and I knew that’s what I wanted to do,” Blair said. “So, for 15 years, I worked.” Blair credited Robinson, Coach Jeremy Croy, mentor John Godina and teammates Chuk Enekwechi and Jay Feuerstein. “There were days when I just didn’t

Blair encouraged current student-athletes to remain patient and build habits that support their goals. “Be patient. It takes time,” he said. “Create habits that support your success and goals, and be relentless in your pursuit to achieve.” Blair added, “I love TU and the city of Tiffin. It gave me some of the best years of my life. Tiffin truly is a special place, and I’m forever grateful for my time there. It is a great day to be a Dragon.”

DONOR HONOR ROLL

Scan the QR code to pledge your support.

Dear Alumni and Friends:

For all clubs, membership is determined by gifts made during the previous fiscal year, which is May 1, 2025 through April 30, 2026.

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!

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.

We will always tout you, your accomplishments and the many ways you enrich our community through your gifts of time, talent and treasure. It remains our honor to celebrate your contributions.

Sincerely,

Mitchell P. Blonde, CFRE Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Public Affairs

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.

Office of Institutional Advancement and Public Affairs

tiffin.edu/advancement/giving

THE HAZEL FRANKS SOCIETY

TIFFIN SOCIETY AMBASSADOR 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.

Larry* and Jeanne Adelsperger American Electric Power Foundation Gertrude and Homer Chisholm Clouse Construction Corp. Lenny J. ‘74 and Lynn Clouse Brian and Jyl Clouse Andrew J. ‘94, HD ‘26 and Leslie Felter Allan M. and Loretta K. Kaplan Joseph R. and Diana M. Kirk Marathon Petroleum Corporation Mercy Health - Tiffin Hospital Bon Secours Meshech Frost Charitable Trust Old Fort Banking Company Anthony J. Paradiso and DeAnn Krauss ‘00 Superior Distributing Co., Inc. Kris and Shannon Klepper Michael R. and Kathleen S. Klepper The Austin E. Knowlton Foundation

Anonymous Michael J. Arbogast and Rosann M. (Kessler) Arbogast ‘81, 87, ‘01 Stephen M. Carrick ‘09 Lynn (Roeder) Child ‘73 Jeanette Conley Jeremy and Meladie Croy Ian and Sarah B. Day ‘02 Andrew J. ‘94, HD ‘26 and Leslie Felter Frances A. Fleet Stephan P. and Donna Frank Blythe A. Friedley ‘69 Gary R. ‘73, ‘77, HD ‘91 and Jane Heminger William F. Hertzer ‘60 Peter Holbrook Duane E. and Kathleen E. Jebbett Gloria J. Kauffman George J., Jr. and Diane Kidd HD ‘99 Michael R. Klepper D. Ted ‘67 and Francine (Janotta) Kuenzli ‘66 Penny Leighty Mary E. Lewis ‘86 Paul and Susan Marion Daniel and Laura A. Mays John J. HD ‘24 and Joyce Millar ‘96, HD ‘24 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 Aaron G. ‘03 and Amy R. (Bumb) Wood ‘03

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

AVI FoodSystems, Inc. Anthony J. Payiavlas Gary R. ‘73, ‘77, HD ‘91 and Jane Heminger William F. Hertzer ‘60 National Machinery Foundation Andrew H. and Cindy Kalnow Timothy J. and Sandy Paradiso Gary E. ‘72 and Laura Robinette

Darrell W. ‘77 and Karen Mann John J. HD ‘24 and Joyce Millar ‘96, HD ‘24 Osceola Foundation, Inc. Pepsi-Cola General Bottlers, Inc. Progressive Managment Consulting Ravi T. Kakarala ‘98 Raymond M. ‘10, ‘15 and Kristen L. (Ameling) Robinson ‘09, ‘12 Schell Foundation Ronald M. Jr. ‘96 and Lillian B. Schumacher Russell and Marguerite Stephenson Foundation France Stone Foundation The Lubrizol Corporation Tiffin Community Foundation Webster Industries and the Webster Foundation WesBanco Bank, Inc. Darren ‘96 and Brandie Williams US Bank Foundation Grants Program

(Lifetime Giving: $500,000 - $999,999)

TIFFIN SOCIETY LEADERSHIP CIRCLE

TIFFIN SOCIETY INVESTOR CIRCLE

($50,000 or more)

AVI FoodSystems, Inc. Anthony J. Payiavlas Thomas M. Coffman William F. Hertzer ‘60 Duane E. and Kathleen E. Jebbett Joseph R. and Diana M. Kirk National Machinery Foundation Andrew H. and Cindy Kalnow Timothy J. and Sandy Paradiso Priority Life Care, LLC Robert E. ‘03, ‘24 and Brandie Petras

(Lifetime Giving: $250,000 - $499,999) Ascendium Thomas M. Coffman GE Foundation Duane E. and Kathleen E. Jebbett Andrew H. and Cindy Kalnow Penny L. Leightey Russell C. Lutz ‘47* Walter M. and Katharine L. Nutter Robert E. ‘03, ‘24 and Brandie Petras The Pruina Corporation Reineke Family Dealerships Dan and Nikki Reineke William Reineke, Jr. ‘92

TIFFIN SOCIETY DEVELOPER’S CIRCLE

($25,000 - $49,999)

TIFFIN SOCIETY VISIONARY CIRCLE

Anonymous Dennis E. ‘68 and Gail C. (Kraft) Foos ‘68 Greater Fostoria Community Foundation Denise Harple Little aaangels Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation Jeffrey and Cindy Oravitz Meshech Frost Charitable Trust PNC Charitable Trusts Grant Stephen and Diane Schult

(Lifetime Giving: $100,000 - $249,999) ACI Construction Company Sabrina Kirk Anonymous BAS Broadcasting Charles River Laboratories JoAnn Chávez HD ‘24 and Michael Laux Cole Family Foundation Charles and Patty Cole Dick’s Sporting Goods FDA-Forensic Chemistry Center Fifth Third Bank Rose M. Frick* Robert G. Friedman Foundation The Paul M. and Lucy J. Gillmor Charitable Foundation Donald Hampton Jr. ‘89, ‘98, HD ‘25 Michael and Dolores Herbert Herrick Foundation J. David and Anna-Maria Hertzer I Know I Can Claire F. Johansen ‘92, HD ‘18 Kresge Foundation Laminate Technologies, Inc. Fred E. and Kem Zoeller Mary E. Lewis ‘86 Little aaangels Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation Jeffrey and Cindy Oravitz

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

Anonymous Lauren Barnes ‘08 Jeffrey L. ‘99 and Michelle Beard Burton D. Morgan Foundation Carter Machine Co., Inc. Annie and Juanita Carter Fred E.* and Barbara Corbin CSX Corporation Dedicated Financial GBC Shawn R. HD ‘26 and Stephanie Smith Andrew J. ‘94, HD ‘26 and Leslie Felter Forvis Mazars Donald Hampton Jr. ‘89, ‘98, HD ‘25 Allan M. and Loretta K. Kaplan 37

John D. and Susan Kinn Susanne Lange Mary E. Lewis ‘86 Darrell W. ‘77 and Karen Mann John J. HD ‘24 and Joyce M. Millar ‘96, HD ‘24 MLAD Graphic Design Services, LLC Mark Levans Bennett J. and Laura Paulus Pepsi-Cola General Bottlers, Inc. Price Water House Coopers Progressive Managment Consulting Ravi T. Kakarala ‘90, ‘98 Kenneth Rauch Reineke Family Dealerships Dan and Nikki Reineke William Reineke, Jr. ‘92 Rivetica, Inc. Robert Walker Raymond M. ‘10, ‘15 and Kristen L. (Ameling) Robinson ‘09, ‘12 Russell and Marguerite Stephenson Foundation Sue Ann Sandusky* Jayson and Anna-Marie Swigart The Pruina Corporation The Shilling Family Foundation, Inc. A. Gary HD ‘99, and Peggy Shilling Ronald L. Thompson ‘65* TOPUCU Foundation US Bank Foundation Grants Program Webster Industries and the Webster Foundation Daryl W. ‘74 and Mary Ellen Weininger Stephen E. ‘76, ‘77 and Marilyn Werling Darren ‘96 and Brandie Williams

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

Anchor Medical Management Associates LLC Chet and Lynn Evans Carl F. ‘61 and Theresa M. Arnold Brian L. ‘90 and Karen S. Brown Mark and Sue Bruning Clouse Electric, Inc. Chuck and Jenny Clouse Dell Burtis Law Paul Burtis and Jane C. Dell Domino’s Pizza / Flyin Brian Pizza INC / KLEAN Pizza LLC Brian and Jennifer Edler Kodie Edler Frances A. Fleet Mary Ann Gawelek Good Shepherd Home Darren and Dusty Goucher Hylant Danial Jameel Claire F. Johansen ‘92, HD ‘18 L3Harris Technologies Ron and Sharon A. (Foss) Lucas ‘66 Maumee Bay Turf, LLC Sean T. McKinney ‘95 Donald B. and Theresa A. (Stephens) Nibblett ‘83, ‘84 Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges OIC Carbon Revolution Zachary A. Reidenbaugh ‘06 Saab National Headquarters Tyrone Bledsoe Ronald M. Jr. ‘96 and Lillian B. Schumacher * Deceased

Smith Family Frosted Foods Aaron F. ‘92 and Nikki Smith Karl ‘66 and Sue Smith Sam and Gretchen Strausbaugh Superior Distributing Co., Inc. Kris and Shannon Klepper Michael R. and Kathleen S. Klepper Eddie Jr. and Kelli Taylor Tiell Financial Group Kit J. ‘08 and Skylar Tiell US Bank, NA Richard and Laurie Anne Zydonik

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

Assetmark Robert and Maithri Baxter Mitchell P. and Dawn M. Blonde Stephen M. ‘09 and Kimberly Carrick Clearstead Advisors, LLC Cole Family Foundation Charles and Patty Cole Dock’s Beach House Bar & Grille/ South Bass Investment Group Wyatt K. ‘18 and Mariah Edwards Andrew R. ‘03, ‘06 and Andrea D. (Howse) Faber ‘04, ‘06 Foundation for the Carolinas James H. and Peg Morgan Jeff Gillmor Mark T. Griffin ‘86 Kim Hagerman Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP Michael and Dolores Herbert Peter Holbrook Ann Hunnicutt D. Ted ‘67 and Francine (Janotta) Kuenzli ‘66 Rob and Patty Lydic McDonald Partners George ‘83, ‘95 and Sharon A. (Broka) Miller ‘83, ‘98 Old Fort Banking Company Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio, Inc. Steven C. and Jennifer D. Copeland Jason ‘23 and Heather Parkins David and Debra Rader Reino’s Pizza & Pasta Ronald and Lori Ringwald Steven E. Seasly Seneca County Collaborative Paul K. Smith ‘94 James M. ‘97, ‘00 and Karri Walker Reginald Wilkinson HD ‘20 Aaron G. ‘03 and Amy R. (Bumb) Wood ‘03

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

Lisa Abel Charles Abel David T. ‘05 and Rebecca A. (Albert) Abraham ‘00, ‘11 Larry* and Jeanne Adelsperger Tracy L. Almanson-Murphy ‘90 Tyler J. and Heidi A. (Kiesel) Alt ‘11, ‘13 Randy A. Aube ‘82 BAE Systems Bair Brothers Sporting Goods Russ and Debra Gahris

Greg and Rosalie Baran Michael S. ‘07, ‘14 and Carrie Barr ‘21 BD Diesel & Auto, LLC Jonathan W. Beard Dan Beck Bee-Safe LLC Jeremy Blanton Jeff Bellinger Brandy (Arbogast) Best ‘06 Patsy Boshears David J. Boyd Gilbert P. Brosky ‘01 David Brown Rudy ‘96, ‘02 and Brittany M. (Davidson) Brownell ‘16 Cassandra Bump Parris ‘08 and Wynter D. (Toland) Burt ‘07 Dean A. Butler ‘09 Pat and Mary Cady Cason Family Foundation of Central Carolina Community Foundation Lynn (Roeder) Child ‘73 Philip T. Conley ‘08, ‘09 Eileen Craven Dorothy Croy Jeremy and Meladie Croy Cameron S. ‘03 and Margarita Cruickshank Rodney M. ‘04, ‘25 and Kelly A. (Dick) Daniel ‘95 Thomas and Jonnie Debbink Rob and Lynn Detterman ‘19 Donjer Rentals Tracey Dorsch Dan ‘07 and Elizabeth Dower Brook and Luann Edwards Gary Eisenhart ‘70 John Esterby Kadish Evans David Farler ‘13, ‘21 Feasel’s Frame & Collision Jeff A. ‘11 and Elizabeth Feasel Bart M. ‘04, ‘17 and Bianka Fisher Stephan P. and Donna Frank Mark Franz Jamie S. CPA ‘98 and Lynette L. (Christianer) Fridley ‘97 Blythe A. Friedley ‘69 Patrick Friscone Owen L. Fritz ‘12 Nuvu Fuels William and Marybeth Fuller Gallagher Student Health & Special Risk Andrew Ganda Grandillo Legal LLC Gina Grandillo Jack W. Greene ‘64 James R. and Ann Gucker Ken and Margaret Guest Perry and Meg Haan Jim L. Hammond Mircea ‘07 and Erika Handru Jeremy Harrison John D. ‘72 and Bobbye J. Haughawout Michael Herdlick Todd and Julie Hoepf Scott and Tonya Hohman John and Taylor M. (Hall) Ireland ‘17, ‘19 Rebecca Iten ‘17 JD Alarm Systems, Inc. Jeff and Carrie Dilley Jeffrey Jewelry Ty and Jennifer Cooper Deborah Jewell

Joseph W. Johnson Kyle A. ‘15 and Ashley Johnson L. Frank Johnson ‘00 Mimi Lange Johnston Chuck and Kerry Jones Prasad C. and Uma Kakarala KGS Ohio, LLC Kiwanis Club of Tiffin Foundation Kosicek Vineyards Anthony F. Kosicek ‘90 David L. and Rose Kuhl Lange, Gordon, Rannigan & Claus LLC Derek DeVine and Anne Lange DeVine David J. and Shelley Claus Kevin and Nadia Lewis Ronald and Patricia Lonzo Craig and Ellen Lucius Madison Street Pub & Grub Christopher L. ‘03, ‘05 and Heather Chase Robert A. ‘71 and Carolyn S. Manz Thomas R. and Elizabeth Marben Jeremy J. ‘02 and Jamie L. Marinis Evelyn Marker Mike and Dee McPherson Renée Meyer Steven B. ‘79, ‘81 and Suzanne M. Micheli Lauren M. Middleton ‘15 Steve and Corri Miller ‘24 Mitchell and Sarah Miller William J. Miller Andrew Morgan and Justin Telthorst JoEllen Mrofchak Chari S. Mullen ‘06, ‘10 Brock Mullins Roger A. and Susan K. Murray ‘88 Teresa Nelson Tommy Nelson Chris and Angela (Roark) Niederkohr ‘92 Todd and Bridget (Brassell) O’Dell ‘11, ‘22 Jon and Amber D. (Metzgar) Oleksyk ‘07 OneTable Strategy Jeremy Harrison P.T. Services Rehabilitation, Inc. Vincent Palombo Mark V. ‘99, ‘15 and Karen Pardi William T. Patterson Susan Payne* Steven M. Peer ‘21 Curtis L. ‘71 and Doreen J. Peterson Anthony M. ‘94 and Kelly Petrosino Adam Polzin PRC Garage LLC Stephen L. ‘02 and Diana Ragan Nicholas Reinhard Michael ‘76, ‘77 and Sue A. Reser ‘76, ‘77 Robert J. Dornauer DDS, Inc. Dr. Robert and Angelyn Dornauer Leah Rowe Dan Ruhe Ernest and Mary Runco Donald G. Sabato ‘67 P. Leighton Sayers ‘68 Robyn Scott Seneca County Auditor Mark and Teresa E. Shafer Jay T. Sharrock ‘89 Matt and Angela (Martorana) Shook ‘04 Benjamin Shuff Jacob A. Simon ‘13

Alexis Smith Jon and Karen Snyder Mark S. and Amy J. Somodi Alejandra C. Sosa Pieroni ‘05, ‘07 Southeast Dairy Processors, Inc. John and Kelly Spahr Rita H. Spiess Ron ‘67 and Karen J. Stiltner Terry D. and Sherry Sullivan Jerry Taylor ‘72 Technique Roofing Systems The Columbus Foundation The Les Paul Foundation Robert Thomas John E. and Elaine Thompson Gregory ‘87 and Bonnie Tiell Tiffin Alumni Phi Theta Pi Traveler’s Insurance Anthony L. ‘02 and Liz Trevino USI Affinity / American Insurance Administrators, Inc. Vaughn Industries Walmart Supercenter Robert G. ‘81 and Judy Watson Weininger Family Dentistry Brandt and Makenzie Weininger Joel V. ‘10 and Kristyn E. (Tooley) Wilkins ‘09 Paul M. ‘87 and Susan A. Williams John C. ‘89 and Kristie A. (Lockwood) Wilson ‘88 Xcaret 2 Inc. Liset Torres Your Legacy Federal Credit Union

‘TIFFIN SOCIETY YOUNG ALUMNI

‘(within 9 years of graduation, $100 first year, $200 second year, etc) Brandon J. Craig ‘22 and Alizah R. Wright ‘24 Matthew Early Rachel Faber ‘24 Chris T. and Mikki R. King ‘20 Randall A. ‘07 and Jennifer Laibe Stephanie M. Lewis ‘24 Cameron P. ‘20, ‘22 and Ashley L. (Osbeck) McCloskey ‘20 Bryce Riggs ‘20 and Allison Kelly-Riggs Jeremy and Deborah Roszman ‘21 Justin and Briana Schneider ‘22 Krystal L. Sexstella ‘21 Connor G. and Alexandria (Beuoy) Smith ‘21, ‘24 Lindsay Weiser ‘21, ‘22

TORCH CLUB ($500 - $999)

Allen Excavating Dave Allen American Fire & Safety Services, Inc. Jack Bour Gail D. ‘76 and Margarete Amstutz Mike Anderson Desmond Balentine Noah A. Barth ‘22 Nicole Bartow Jennifer Bates Rebecca S. Bates Trevor Bechtel Best Break Jason W. and Dawn M. Tyree Julie Bevelander Judith Lynne Biery

Michelle Biery John Brentlinger Nichol Brentlinger Noah Bridges Les and Terra Buhro Christine Campbell Casa Fiesta Cascade Drilling Brandon and Callie M. (Dewald) Cessna ‘12 Kevin Christman ‘15 Tom and Janet Clabaugh Andrew Clauer Commodore Perry Federal Credit Union Sean Craig Douglas A. Dantuono ‘75 Lisa Dietrick Coney DiGenova Barbara Dodge Colm Duffy Brett and Sophia Ekkens Charles and Lacy K. (Cherry) Ellis ‘06, ‘07 Mary L. Elmquist ‘96 Justin Evers Megan Evers Karey Faith Anna Feadler Financial Design Agency of Ohio, Inc. Weston Reinbolt and Suzie Reineke Aaron M. and Donene Smith Richard Flores Stacey Floyd Janet Foote Greg and Melody Gerhardstein Rhonda C. Gilreath ‘91, ‘98 Shelby Haley Ken Havice Jon A. ‘09 and Erika Hemmelgarn Calvin J. ‘05 and Diane Higgins Home Pro Roofing Margaret House Stephen Jantz Carl F. and Kris Kalnow KeyBank Foundation Diane M. (Frederick) Klopfenstein ‘80, ‘82 and Kraig T. Klopfenstein Mark Kopenski Lakeside Interior Contractors Lee’s Floor Coverings Joseph L. ‘06 and Jeni Liszak Michael E. ‘06 and Devon K. (Pearson) Lossick ‘05 Gayla Macomber Thomas Mager Angie Marsh Erbland Marsha Daniel and Laura A. Mays Ruth Ann McAfee Laura McLean Paige McMenemy Nationwide Insurance Foundation Kenn Mengerink Gary C. and Carole A. Miller Scott Miller Lisa Moore John Mossing Paul Murphy Regan Murray Robert Murray National Trails Matthew Neill Karl Newman Trevor C. Nickolai ‘14 Kate Nied Tim Pangonas Shane Parendo

Paul L. ‘03 and April Pellegrini Phi Theta Pi Fraternity - Troy OH Phillips Electric & Appliance Bradley C. Redman ‘74 Samuel Reid ‘20 Amanda Robbins Mark and Jannie Sabo Jill Salas Savvy Knax Richard Screptock ‘20 Mark Shade Robert L. and Sheila Smith Jeanette Stewart Synchrony Bradford Tanner ‘96 The Benevity Community Impact Fund The Lubrizol Corporation The Superior Die Tool & Machine Co. Zach Thurn Tiffin Capital Investments, LLC Tiffin Rotary Foundation Kevin Van Meter Vantage Athletic Jay and Kathy Walsh Charles D. ‘76 and Beverly J. Walton Joseph W. ‘01 and Melissa Weininger Ben Westcott Chris White Wilson Tire Company David Woodring Michael and Sharon Yochum

Edward Jones Hal Epler Brian Esterby Amanda Evers Jason Evers James R. ‘71 and Ilse (Roehrich) Faist ‘70 Matthew Feadler Mark Feury Ashley Filisky Courtney Fisher Mark A. Fishpaw ‘93 Brent Foos Devin and Rebecca Frank Patricia Freund Armando Gallegos Barbara Garcia Stuart Garcia Bonni Gelman Ryan Gerbino ‘97 Mario Giacona Andrea J. ‘14 and Eric Gibson Karen Gill Donald Ginnetti Ingrid Glatt Tom Godosky Richard A. and Carol Goeb Lauren Goldie Amy Gorenflo Dale Graham Randy Granger Andy Grombacher GT Ventures LTD Denise Gucwa Tracy L. Hahn ‘04 and Virginia Sheffield Justin Hand ‘24, ‘25 Bethani Burkhart ‘16 and Cale Heintzelman Erica L. Henry ‘00, ‘02 Monika and Bo Hermansson Susan Herriott Linda Holman Homan Transportation Andrew Homan Richard Howard Nolan J. Hill ‘11 and Laura Igaune-Hill Integrity Automall Daniel Irwin Nate and Heidi Irwin David Jaynes Donald A. Johnson ‘08 Randy and Mavis Jones Lisa Juliano Scott Karr Laci Kern William Key Clint Kirker John T. Kleinoeder Matt Koenig Mandy Kosak Anita Kowalski Nicholas Krauter Nancy Krippel Kroger of Tiffin Bruce and Doris M. Lambert ‘94 Donal Lawless John H. ‘12 and Bethany L. Leary ‘15. ‘24 Jeff and Lisa Lieske Mark Lomax Fern Long Tony Lucarotti Hannah Luhring Ali Lukungu ‘03, ‘05 Jeff Lutz Ines Macadam ‘23, ‘25 Eric Magee Jessica Marizcurrena

GREEN AND GOLD CLUB ($250 - $499)

Jill M. Aldrich ‘15 Alex Amendolea Frederick J. and Ruth J. Babel-Smith ‘99 Richard Bailey Jason and Megan Ball Holli Bame Jeremy Barnes Chelsea E. Bass ‘15 Claudia Bates Marge Beitler Chad Birch Stephen and Jen Bjork Christopher and Tiffany Boehler Douglas E. Bohl Rich Bohler Weston M. Bollinger ‘24 Staci Borup Kathleen Brown Willliam N. and Darlene Brown John and Susan Brunecz Blase C. and Stephanie G. (England) Bruno ‘95 Jim and Tricia Burks Calvert Catholic Schools Rob and Heather Carlson Bruce Chambers Darin Chase Michele Chevrette Denise Clark Leaner Coleman-Fairfax Stacy Cook Samantha Cozzolino James Cramer Daniela Cuadra Gale E. ‘91 and Kimberly Cunningham Kyle and Elaine E. Daugherty Sheryl DeSimone Caelinn Diekmann Jen Dobbins Gaël Dolle Scarlet Dosh Marilynn Dunn

Randy Matthews Marilyn Matthews Matthew D. and Andrea McCabe Nick McCollum John Mckenney III Patrick McLeod Dean Mentzer Meghan Michaels Bill and Cindy Miler Melvin J. Miller ‘70 Caleb Miller Eugene Miller Kelly Millin Stewart Mills Lori Moledor Brett and Lori Montague Alex Mossing Dan Murphy Teresa Murphy Michele Nagle Daniel Pamer Thomas Pawlowski Kelly Peris Xavier Perry Larry Peterson Richard Pierri Emma Polilli Scott Primm Raymond Pryor Irma M. (Scagnetti) Ramsey ‘59 Jeffery Ray Catherine Redwine Keith M. Reiter ‘09 Traci Rennie Scott and Tangi Ritchie ‘16 Stephen R. Saddler ‘16 Scott W. ‘04, ‘08 and Alison A. Saracusa ‘11, ‘17 Wade and Jennifer Schoenberger Doug and Tammy Schonberger Walter Schweitzer Zachary Shalit Janet and Allen Shutt ‘73 Mark Skrelja Jennifer Spangler Paul Spinks Jody Starcher State Farm Companies Foundation Jared Stein Tori A. Strayer Sharon Swindler Todd Szilard Teamray Trucks Jim E. ‘59 and Sharon L. Thomas David Thomas Thomas A. Thompson ‘94 Katie M. Tiell ‘20 Ron Tweedy Joseph Van Kerkhove Steven Vanoy Jonathan Varner Vincent V. Vasilevski John Vrabel George L. Wagner ‘66 Susan Wajert John A. and Shelley Wank Bryan M. Weimerskirch ‘05 Merris A. Jr. ‘55 and Jean Welge Tim and Karen Welsh Wilderness Wood & Epoxy William Stepp Linda Willetto Larry F. and Jean M. Wilson Brian Wisneski Chester Wisneski Jenifer Wisneski Madison A. Woods ‘24 Betty Yakovich Dave Yanka * Deceased

Zenobia Tiffin Hornets Melissa Zetts Cheryl Zima Roy S. and Barbara (Keith) Zinn ‘92 Yarone Zober Shawn and Nicole Zolman Scott and Roxanne Zolman

DRAGON’S CLUB ($100 - $249)

Tom and Penny Abner Scot Acree Sherri Adachi Steve Adelman Deborah Agee Melissa Albright Rugen and Hollie Alda Allen Eiry Center Inc. Ryan and Holly A. Allgood ‘19 J. W. Allison Ally Financial Inc. Eric F. Althoff ‘23 Sara Alton Stella Amankwa Angelo Amenta Mark Amos Zachary Ancewicz ‘24 Jason Andreas Tara Andreas Ernest Anunciacion Jonathan K. ‘14 and Do Hee Kim-Appel Elizabeth Athaide-Victor Bob and Debbie Axford Brandon Azzi ‘24 Matt Bachtel Christopher Back Eric Bagranoff Andre Baguyo Sarah Bahr Cynthia Baileys Chuck Baird Brandie Baker Justin ‘08 and Amanda Baker Yvonne Baker Austin and Heidi M. (Marshall) Ball ‘21, ‘22 Charity Banks Angela Barbee Michael ‘07, ‘13 and Millicent L. Barhorst ‘07 Thomas and Lori Barnett Art and Pat Barrera Tom Bartholomy Robyn Bass Christiaan Basson Clifford Bates Curtis Bates Jeremy Bates Amy Baudino Eileen Beal Laurie Beck Jean Bell Benjamin Moore Paint Debbie Benson Keith V. and Nancy C. Berlan Mollie Biehl Biery Cheese Co. Pam Billmaier Eric Birch John Birch Kevin Birch Wilma J. Bishop Justin Blades Zack and Lauren Blair Sharon Bland Todd Blankenship Brenda Blausey

Mary Blausey Robert Blausey Robert A. Blickenstaff ‘69 Susan Bochman Lori Bodnar Vernon Boecher Robin Bolling Susan Bond Mary Booher Harriet Borden Mary Anne Borer Sydney Borer Cecelia Borths Marcella Borths Michael Bosco Michelle Bosco Mike Boswell Tonda Bradley Mark Brady Kelli Braendel Donald and Barbara Brandt Rich and Kelly Brazelton Timothy Breitbach Kay Brewer Jason Bridgman Sanae Brittain Amber Brockway Eileen Brockway Brad Brody Diane Brody Don Browm Caysee Brown Elizabeth Brown Greg and Jean Brown Jeffrey Brown Jeffrey L. Brown Jeremy Brown Joanne Brown Shelly Brown Suzanne Brown Travis Brown William T. ‘40 and Nancy Brown Wilbert A. Brunn III ‘81 Melba Bryan Randy L. ‘94 and Julie A. Buck Brandy Bunch Dawn Burba Phyllis Burge David Burks Lynn Busdeker David and Nickie Bush Jodi Bushong ‘12 Donna Byarski Michael Byrne Barb Cacchione Katie Cacchione Robert Cacchione Melania Caicedo Lindsay Caldwell Kyle Calhoun Bob Calmus Greg Campbell Thomas Campbell Joseph M. Candito ‘12, ‘13 Amy Caneega Lisa Carducci Kuirsta Carlson Melissa Carpenter Brenda Cartwright Mary Jo Caruthers Lisa Case Abraham Castro John ‘89 and Kelly (Kirkhart) Cavanagh ‘88 Abe Cerda Chuck Chafin Jeff Chapman Sofia Chase Jackie Chester

Jeff Chrisman Cynthia Christner Jerry and Cheryl Clark Virginia L. Cochie Janice Cochrac Amanda Cohol Gary L. ‘78, ‘81, ‘92 and Charlotte Cole Antonietta Coletta John Collart Matthew Combs Shari Cook Wes Cook James Corbett Allen K. ‘60 and Elaine M. Corfman Dawn Couch Kevin Coulter Kelly Covert Shelley Cox Dale Cracas Rock L. ‘82, ‘83 and Tina Craft Adam Craig JoAnne Craig Phyllis Cresswell ‘18 Michael Curtis Anthony Cusano Raj Dabhi Tammi Daily William and Milann Daugherty Andrea Davis Daniel Davis Danielle R. Davis ‘25 Eric and Jana Davis Madelyn Davis Rob Davis Sonja Davis Erin Dean Vincent Dean James M. ‘73 and Marilyn Deats JJ DeBrosse Shannon DeClute Daniel Dedmon Sarah DeGroff April DeHart Mark Del Monaco Jennifer L. DeLuca ‘19 Jason A. ‘07, ‘08 and Jessica Dennis Pat Denslow Jeff and Marcy Devlin Dave DiGenova Rebecca Dinnen Donna Distel Nicki Dixon Aldo Dizon Chase Dobson Terry Dobson Jeff Doepker Kimberly Dohn Lisa M. Dominguez ‘06 Katinka Domotorffy Tim Donovan Deborah Dorsch Susanne Dorsey Tad Douce Mark Douglass Mary Ellen Douglass Matthew Dowler Andrea C. Draper ‘09, ‘14 Patricia Duffy Robert D. Dull ‘99 Robin K. Dunlap Stacy Dunn Charles Eichinger Frank Elia Joyce Ellis Marie Erchenbrecher-Gonzalez Andrea Esterby Ella Esterby Sharon Estevez Ron and Diane Evans 40

Charlotte Evans-Barcus Janice Evers Angie Fabrizio Tabatha Fairchild Julie Fanning Gary Farnsworth Linda Farr Stephanie Fellows Colin Ferek Marc Ferguson Jenette Fiejdasz Mary Ann Filipow Cheryl Filippou Tom Filippou Sandra Filisky Dennis Finke Quinn Fischer Norma Fish Brenda Fisher Colleen Fitch Bob Fittro Krista Fleshood Carrie Floyd Dexter Foos Michael Forman Deborah A. Foster ‘24 Jodi Foster Shawn Foster Amy Fought Rebecca Fox Kylea Frederick Tenisa Frye James and Jennifer Fulton Venkataramana and Redhika Gajjala Sharon Gallagher Eric Gannaway Todd Garbe Andrew Gelfand Bob Geller Melody Gentile Peter Gentles Mary A. George Keith Gerhardstein Sushmita Ghosh and Nabarun Ghosh Charlie Giacona Robert Gibbons Lynn Gibbs Tim Gibson Rob Giesige Jennifer Giezie Donna Gilb Ava Gillo Joseph T. Gilman ‘24 Jamario Glanton Alexander and Gabrielle Goetz Derek Golec Virginia Golec Thomas Golombek Christopher M. ‘08 and Erin Gomez David Gonzalez James Gonzalez Kathleen Gorman Michael Gorman Suzanne Gorman Batot Robin Gorrell Jeff Gossage Keith Grabowski Kenneth Grabowski Dennis Grace Melissa Graham Paula Granata Michael* and Nancy Grandillo Martin Granstrom Shawna Grant Isaac Greeley Rhonda Green Tyler Griffiths Kevin L. Grimes ‘01 James Grover

Patricia Grover Audrey Grubb Steve Grube Jaime Grznar Jeff Guider Krisha Guilbault Amanda Gum Lev Gutich Betsy Hackenburg Ryan Haden Guenther Haeusser Allie Hall Clare Hall Jeannie Hall Paula Hall Richard Hall Todd Hall Janis Hames Kayla Hames Lee and Dawniel Hames Percy Hamilton Nicholas Hammerschmidt Yvonne Hammond Deborah Hamrick Mel and Janet L. Hanacek ‘01 Michael Hanavan Anthony and Anna Harlin Laura Harmon Sean Harper Sr. Mark Harrell Peter Harrington Dustin J. Harrison ‘03 Crissy Hart Rob Hart Jill Hartland Jeremy Hartman Leo Hasenstab ‘20 Rob Hauck Rodney and Carrie Haudenschield Erin Hayes Michael Heiser Jennifer Helton Suzanne Hemingway Hempy Water of Tiffin, LLC Steve and Joan Henderson Tom Hendrix David R. ‘20, ‘21, ‘22 and Haleigh (Hubbell) Henson ‘22 Timothy A. Heppner Sr. ‘68 Kelly Herman Earl Hernandez Tyler and Audrey Heslet Heather Hetrick Shawna Hetrick Doug Hiegel Sharon Hill Jori Hindley Kathy Hobbs Krista S. Hock Gerald and Susan Hoeltge Jason E. Hoeltge ‘98 Karen and William Hoffert Annique Hogan Susan Holbrook Blake Holmer Lou Holmes Beth Hopkins Marc Hopkins Rachel Hopple Dottie Horine Sandra Horrigan Wendy Horvath Tina Hotelling Timothy D. Houston Jr. ‘25 Yancey Houston Brent and Susan Howard Nate Howard Kevin Howley Peter Hubmann

Barbara Lang-Khotsombath Jordan Langs Kendall Lash John W. Lauer ‘69 Victoria Lauer Fang-Mei Law Floyd J. ‘64 and Susan Lawless Wynne Lawlor Samantha Ledoux Anna Lee Matt Lee Erwin Leffel Samantha Leffel Katie Lennig John and Katie Lewis Sarah Lingo Jonathan Lippiatt Anne Little Elizabeth Liverpool Michael Liverpool Samuel J. LoFaso III ‘23 C. LaShea Lofton Adam Loiselle Ella Loubert Michael Loudiana Dawn Lowery Marla Lowery Joe Lucas Cassandra Lustig M & L Housing, LLC Earl and Patty MacBlane-Johnson Brandon Macdonell ‘24 Jonathan Mack Susann Macri Tshepiso Madihlaba John and Debbie Madison Lou Major Vince Malkovits Stanley E. ‘70 and Carol G. (Bockbrader) Manbeck ‘67 Raymond J. Jankowski and Cynthia Manbeck Jankowski ‘77 Shirley Manfull Frank A. Marchetti ‘70 and Wendy L. Worringer Alex Marcial Jr. Susan Marks William Marley Gracie Marsh Rob Martin Trudy Martini Larry Mathis Mark Matt Michael Mattin Michelle C. Maus Anthony Mavrinac Jordan May Kiley C. May ‘18 Scott May Sarah McAfee Sydney McBride Arlene McCarty Timothy McCarty Ryan and Natalie McClain Sabrena McClure Faith Mccoy Scott McDaniel Daryl M. and Patricia A. McDonald Lainey McGivern Dale & Jackie McKee Amy McKinlay Christopher S. McKown ‘17 Lorraine E. McLaughlin Brent and Gretchen McMenemy Veronica McMenemy Torrey Mcneal Heather McPherson William Mead William Meadows

Amanda Hummel David Hummel Tammy Hunter Ronald Huntwork Tim Husmann Mary Hussar Melissa Hussar James P. Hutchins Jr. ‘76 Dianna Huynh Kristin Iden Korab Imami ‘15, ‘17 Hollie M. Irving ‘15 Anton Jaar Donna Jacoby Nick Jacquemain Matthew James Thomas James Debbie Jasinski Barbara Jenkins Celia Jenkins Ray Jenne III Paul John Charley H. Johnson Jim and Sue Johnson Milton Johnson Richard A. Jr. ‘96 and Shreve D. Johnson Sharon Johnson Zachary T. Johnson ‘24 Brent Johnston Justin Joiner Kenneth A. ‘80 and Ann Jones Colleen Jordan Natalie G. Jordan Dylan Kaiser Joseph Kamel Rachel A. Kandathil ‘23 David Karr Michael J. ‘94 and Christine A. Kaucher Dennis Kear ‘64, ‘72 and Connie J. Kear Alexis Kellerman William Kellerman Kimberly Kelley Kristy Kelley Terry Kelley Kristy Kennedy Julia Kennedy Gray Dave Key Kenny Key II Lexi Key Oksana Khavanskaya Ryan Kirkpatrick Sandy Klatt Donald Kleiner Kaitlin Kleiner Randall Klovenski Alan Kobie Matt Kochheiser Diane Kocon Ashley Koehler Margaret Koehler Lee J. and Sandra K. Koehler Michael Koenig Julie Koesters Esperanza Kokel Carol Kolakowski Aubrey Kosak Ruth Kremer Scott J. and Alyssa Kromer Caroline Kuhn Doug Kummerer Lee Kuntz David Lacinski Jennifer Ladrach JoEllen LaFountain Lindsay Laine Matthew Lamovec 41

Nikki Meloeny Krista Mengerink Reagan Mengerink Richard Mentzer Jeff M. ‘01 and Cheryl A. Merkle Susan Merriman Metzger Masonry Inc. Cynthia Meyer Mark and Carol Miceli Sara Michaels Holly Michener Midwest Gloveworks Casandra Miller Harry Miller Jennifer L. Miller Jennifer R. Miller Jo Ellen Miller Rick and Carrie Miller Sandra J. Miller ‘01 Baylee Mirgon Allison Mistlebauer Marc Mitchell Dale Monnin Malisssa Monnin Lori Monst Irene Moore Chris Morgan Jen Morgan John and Lois Morrell Aaron Morris Tamara A. (Audritsh) Morris ‘77 Emily Morrow Michelle Motter Gene and Vicki Mullins Nichole Mullins Nicole Murd Matt Murphy Sara Muzechenko Alec Myers Christopher D. and Denice L. (Coppler) Myers ‘93 Gabrielle Myers Julie Myers Joe and Jacquelene P. Mylor Justin Mylor Rena Mylor Jenni Myrick Jeremy Naab ‘23 Kathi Nagel Shannon Nedds Gwen Neikirk Laura Nelson Mark Nelson Tabatha and John Nelson Karen Nemeth Laura Nemeth Tom Nemeth Sean Nesbitt Karen Neumann Hayley Neumeier Matt Neumeier Don Neuss Timothy Newberry Marsha Newell Jennifer Newman Andrew Niederst Mandy Niederst Giana Noonan Pete Norman Ewen North Kelly Notter Vicki Notter Amy Nuhfer Stephen Nuhfer Jeffrey ‘95 and Angela M. (Shardo) Nunn ‘95 Shane K. ‘13, ‘25 and Dinelle O’Donnell Carrie Ogden * Deceased

Katie O’Neil Jami S. Opp ‘13, ‘15, ‘21 Joe Oren ‘22, ‘23 Ryan Orner Dawn Ostrega Kristie Otterbacher Ryan Ottney David Owen Lisa Owen Nancy Owens Zachary Pall Collin and Jessica M. (Iffland) Palmer ‘19 Parker Hannifin Janet Parks Zach Parris Peter and Salenna Patellis Brandie Paull Judith Pavlik Susan Pavlik Thomas Pavlik Terris R. Payne Kristen E. Pekarek Haning Lori E. Pellegrino-Jackson Joyce Pence Giuseppe A. Penzone ‘18, ‘19 Garry Peterson Tad Peterson John Petracci Sherri Petrigac Barbara Phillips Frank and Karla Phillips Lucas S. Phillips Scott Phillips Margaret Phinney Judith A. Picciuto Kimberly Pierce Phillip Pierri Jean Pierro Shane R. Pinnell ‘25 Victoria Pipher Lynda Pitzer Denny Polilli Rachel Polilli Danny Pool Emily Portz Kathleen Portz Sharlene Porz Don and Candy Postlewaite Jennifer Postlewaite Hap Potter Saundra Prather Vernon Prather Stephanie Predovich Christian Price Darlene Price Jon Price William and Charlene M. Prochazka ‘03 Raul Puga Megan Pummell Janette Purdy Arlene Rahm-Scherf James Rand Catherine F. Rathburn ‘91 Kim Ray Scott K. and Rebecca F. (Mertz) Reckers ‘97 Allison L. Rees Bradley A. Rees Bryan and Tawnya Reinhart Michelle Renninger Kevin Repp Jean Revoir Ronee Rice Michelle Richard Greg ‘91 and Jodi Richards Milton Richardson Larry Riddell Deanna Rios

Nicholas C. Smythe ‘22 Erin E. Snapp ‘13 Josh Soehner Charles Spayde Scott A. Sprang James and Christy Squires Laura Squires Sheri St Clair Joan Stacy-May John Staimpel Troy Stamm David Stapleton John Stehulak Bryan Stevens Josh Steyer Mark Stiggers Jennifer Stock Dan Stoll Valerie Street Nick Stroemple Dennis Suardini Tejina Sudderth-Turner Cheryl Sullivan Cheryl M. Sullivan Peggy Swain Kelley Sweeney Linda Swyers James H. Tanks III ‘98 Gilbert Tapia Sherri Taylor Steven Theis Haley Thierry Andy Thomas Kathleen Thomas Tanya Thomas Eric Thompson Kian Thompson ‘22 Amy Thornton Jon Thornton Tiffin Great Lakes Ace Hardware Howard Tillman Adrienne Todd Marcia Treadway Karen Trionfo Heidi Troyer Nick Truesdale John Tudela Alex ‘15 and Carissa C. (Catalano) Tuliraba ‘14 Ekua Turkson Brandon Tuttle Ronald Tweedy Harry Unangst Lyle T. Underwood ‘80 Robert C. ‘08 and Vicki L. Uppenkamp Vance and Ashley Vair Jordan VanMeter ‘24 Steve Vaughan Jerald Vent Verizon Wireless David Viggiano Sue Violante Michele Vlacovsky Kathryn A. Vogel ‘22 Ashleigh Wackerlin Colleen Wader Peter B. ‘98 and Valerie A. Waite Diane Walker Dan Wallace Terry and Anita Wallace John and Courtney Walsh Nathaniel Walsh Diana Ward Maryann Warren Nicole A. (Smith) Wasserman ‘01 Ann V. Waters ‘98 Lorrie Weber Martin Landon Weiner Andrew Weitzel

Robert C. ‘77 and Linda S. (Doepker) Ritzler ‘77 RNB Construction John Robinson ‘25 David Rochefort Teresa Roesler Jeff Roetting Amy Rogers Darby M. Roggow ‘96, ‘99 Kristina Rose Drew and Annette Ross Damian Rothermel Marie Rowe Scott Rowland Jackie Rowland Traver Nancy F. Rubenstein Caleb Rufener Danielle Ruffner Rachel Rulo Scott Runkel Caroline Russell Pamela A. Russell ‘95 Kevin Ruth James Rykard Pat Salemi Sacha Sanborn Gregory L. and Sharon M. Sanger Steve Schafer Nicholas and Pamela J. (Fox) Schalk ‘01 Carolyn Schall Ellen Schall Keith Schall Thomas D. Scherf ‘92 Dan and Theresa M. (Berrier) Scherger ‘78, ‘83, ‘84 John E. Schlessman Craig Schmid Kathleen Schmidt Eric Schneider Karen Schoultheis Jon Schrock Kim Schroeder Maxine Schroeder Ryan Schroer David Schultz Michelle Schwanbeck Mark and Jo E. Sciulli ‘03 Randee Sears Marie E. Seaver ‘25 Nancy Seelenbinder Deborah Sekeres David J. Selnick Anthony ‘74 and Donna Serluco Lori Seward Richard A. ‘67, ‘79 and Sharon A. Shaffer Johnathon M. Sharp ‘08 Patrick F. ‘19 and Anita Sheils Jane L. and Wayne L. Shepherd Tracie Shore Brenda Simcoe Sally Simcoe Savana Simcoe Angela Simmons Stephen Simonds Connie Sipe Shiloh Sipe Mariama Sisay-John Alonna Skinner Jack Skrelja Lori Skrelja Sonia Skripac Jennifer Smith Judy Smith Lori Smith Mike Smith Rebekah Smith Russell and Joan Smith Stephanie Smith 42

Steven Weitzel Drew Wellner Richard Wells Chad Welshans Dawn West Nick Westall Patrick Westcott Susan Westcott Aaron and Robin Westerman Lynne Wetoskey Nicholas R. Wheeler ‘19, ‘20 Amy Whillock Adrienne White Madison Whitehead ‘18 Christopher P. and Joann Widman Marilynn Widman Bruce C. Wilcox ‘85 Carl and Rosalinda Wiles Debra Wiles Mark Wilhelm French Williams Joanne Williams Kimberly Williams Hilde Williamson Holly Williamson Kaleb Williamson Mary Anne Williamson Bill E., Sr. ‘72 and Barb Wilson Candace Wilson James C. and Bernadette Wilson Rebecca Wisneski Michaelle Woodruff Patricia Woodruff Bethany L. Workman ‘10 Randy Wright Danielle Wymer Brian Wysocki Debra Wysocki Ryan and Caitlyn G. (Bass) Wysowaty ‘17 Karl Yakumithis Manuel Yakumithis Rachelle Yakumithis Jean Yost Shannon Young Seyer Christian and Tara Zbin Kent Zechar Joan Zimmer Leann Zimmerman Matthew Zuckerman ‘24

GIFT’S MADE IN MEMORY OF Larry Adelsperger Sybil and Bill Evans Jim and Ann Federick Michael Felter Rose Frick Joe Granata Mike Grandillo Judith Hampton Donald Hampton Sr. Tom Hoffman Susan Payne

PHI THETA PI FRATERNITY Euchre Party

of $100,000. The growth on these funds should provide financial support for several students each year to help with their tuition. This year’s winner was Brayden Courtney. The evening ended with Michael Herdlick speaking on some of the exciting things happening in the future at Tiffin University.

Annual Winter Dinner

Annual National Convention – Celebrating 100 Years

The Phi Euchre party was held February 7 at the home of Denny and Gail Foos (Tiffin). There was good food, fellowship, card playing and a good time was had by all. Approximately 25 brothers and a few guests attended. The big winner for the evening was Brayden Courtney. The Phi Annual Winter Dinner was held at TU’s Osceola Theatre with 30 attending members and guests. TU’s dining services, AVI, provided a beautiful room and delicious meal.

Tiffin University welcomed Phi Theta Pi members from across the country for the fraternity’s 100th anniversary celebration in May. The weekend included special events, campus and community tours, conversations with University leadership and opportunities to reconnect. TU alumni and members from other chapters gathered to celebrate a century of history, tradition and brotherhood. Tiffin University is home to Phi Theta Pi’s remaining active chapter.

Reports were given about people and events coming up in the future. Delta Beta actives gave a report on the annual national convention, held on TU’s campus, celebrating the fraternity’s 100-year anniversary. It was also reported that the George Dupey Endowed Scholarship for the benefit of Phi – Delta Beta students at Tiffin has reached its goal

CLASS SCENE 2000s

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Whether you started a new job, got married, welcomed a baby or celebrated another milestone, we want to hear from you! Submit your latest updates at tiffin.edu/ advancement/update-your-information. You may be featured in a future issue of Challenge Magazine!

next generation through coaching. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Tiffin University in 2003. During his time at TU, Smith was a member of the baseball team and was involved with residence life.

Laura J. Fitzwater Class of 2000 Laura J. Fitzwater retired in October 2025, after a 42year career in Fostoria, Ohio, with Atlas/Cummins, ThyssenKrupp Atlas and Callies Performance Products. Most recently, she served as production manager and materials buyer at Callies Performance Products. Fitzwater received her BBA with a concentration in managerial studies from Tiffin University in 2000 after attending part time for seven years while continuing her career. Her daughter, Rachel Fitzwater Griffith, also earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from TU.

Gary Greg Wadsworth Class of 2004 Gary Wadsworth currently works as a senior supplier development engineer at Carrier Corp., where he helps improve supplier quality, manufacturing performance and product readiness across the company’s plants and business units. His role includes working directly with suppliers, leading quality audits, supporting process improvements and helping reduce warranty costs. Wadsworth received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Tiffin University in 2004. He is the father of Christian Marie Wadsworth and grandfather of Malory Eve Garcia.

Charles F. Yeager Class of 2002 Charles Yeager currently works in Assortment Insights at Walmart Inc. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Tiffin University in 2002. During his time at TU, he was a member of the tennis team, Sigma Omega Sigma and Student Government.

Emili Mary Arlene Black Class of 2005 and 2026 Emili Black currently works as an inside sales manager for order entry at Ford Meter Box. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration Tiffin University in 2005 and returned to pursue her Master of Business Administration in leadership and change, which she completed in 2026. During her time at TU, Black was a member of the volleyball and track and field teams, served as a resident assistant and head resident assistant and was president of Gamma Chi Alpha Sorority for two years. She also received the Leadership for Life Award, volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, taught freshman seminar and gave campus tours. Black chose to return to TU because the University has always felt like home and credits its faculty and staff with encouraging students to reach their full potential.

Daniel John Watson Class of 2002 Daniel Watson currently works as a deputy investigator with the District Attorney’s Office Homicide Team for the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office in Charlotte, North Carolina. He received his Bachelor of Criminal Justice from Tiffin University in 2002. Brian W. Smith Class of 2003 Brian W. Smith was recently appointed as a middle school health and physical education teacher at Lexington City Schools. He enjoys helping young people navigate life’s challenges and sharing his knowledge of baseball with the

Carlo Adams Class of 2008 Carlo Adams currently works as a Senior IT Specialist at Piston Group. He received his 44

Bachelor of Business Administration from Tiffin University in 2008.

in 2010 from Tiffin University. During his time at TU, Burt was involved in football, basketball, served as a resident assistant and was a member of TU’s Secret Society.

Parris Burt Class of 2008 and 2010 Parris Burt recently began working as a regional 3PL operations coordinator in supply chain at Royal Canin, where he helps make an impact in the lives of pets. He received his BBA in sports management in 2008 and his MBA in leadership

2010s Stephanie A. Winemiller Class of 2011 and 2019 Stephanie A. Winemiller currently works as an attorney at Price Pelletier LLP in San Diego, where she practices insurance defense with a focus on commercial trucking accidents. Coming from a family of truck drivers, Winemiller especially values the opportunity to defend individual drivers and support them through difficult, life-changing situations. Winemiller applies her psychology education to her legal practice through client support, negotiation and conflict resolution. She received her Bachelor of Criminal Justice in 2011 and her Master of Science in psychology in 2019 from Tiffin University. A firstgeneration college graduate, she credits TU’s flexible programs with allowing her to work full time while earning her degrees and preparing her for law school. Originally from Cleveland, Winemiller moved to California in 2012. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her two rescue dogs, Beesley and Ginger. Trisha Foos Class of 2011 Trisha Foos currently works as a program supervisor at the Sandusky County Department of Job and Family Services. She enjoys helping youth and others who need guidance as they work toward self-sufficiency. Foos received her Bachelor of Business Administration from Tiffin University in 2011. Mike Taggart Class of 2017 Mike Taggart has served as a police officer with the Hilliard Division of Police for eight years and currently works as a patrol officer. He also 45

2020s

serves as a field training officer, stops and approaches instructor, member of the Accident Investigation Team and community response to active shooter events instructor. Taggart received his Bachelor of Criminal Justice from Tiffin University in 2017 and was a member of the football team. He and his wife, Annie, a nurse at Children’s Hospital, have been married for seven years and have two children.

Isabel Lin Conrath Class of 2020 Isabel Conrath currently works as an attorney at Offit Kurman, P.C. She received her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Tiffin University in 2020. During her time at TU, she was a member of the women’s soccer team and was involved with the Ohio Innocence Project.

Alex Connor Schuett Class of 2017 Alex Schuett currently works as a lead and senior analyst at Booz Allen Hamilton in Dayton, Ohio, where he supports national defense initiatives and manages programmatic and business operations. After graduating from Tiffin University in 2017, he moved to Washington, D.C., to support national defense efforts before returning to Ohio in 2021. During his time at TU, Schuett was a member of the Global Affairs Organization. He chose TU for its educational opportunities, military-friendly resources and close-knit campus community and credits the University with helping him become a more accountable leader and community member. Schuett and his wife were married in 2023 and welcomed their son, Henry, in October 2025.

Madyson Palmer Class of 2021 Madyson Palmer currently works in the Victim Services Unit at the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, where she provides on-scene crisis support to victims of crimes, including homicide and intimate partner violence. She also helps train deputies on appropriate responses to domestic violence and nonfatal strangulation. Palmer recently completed a five-week academy on nonfatal strangulation and is certified to teach on the topic. She received her Bachelor of Criminal Justice in forensic psychology from Tiffin University in 2021. During her time at TU, she was a member of Zeta Pi Beta Sorority and the Equestrian Team. Palmer and her boyfriend relocated from the Pittsburgh area to Frederick, Maryland. Jor’Dan Elise Thompson Class of 2022 and 2025 Jor’Dan Elise Thompson currently works as a therapeutic behavioral support specialist at ViaQuest Psychiatric and Behavioral Solutions. She received her Bachelor of Arts in psychology in 2022 and her Master of Science in industrial and organizational psychology in 2025 from Tiffin University. During her time at TU, she was a member of the Criminal Justice Club. Thompson was also nominated for membership in the National Society of Leadership and Success and is now a member of the organization.

Grace Gregory Class of 2019 Grace Gregory currently works as a human resources generalist at the Osborn Engineering Company. She was recently named a Crain’s Cleveland Business 20 in their 20s Class of 2025 honoree. Gregory received her Bachelor of Business Administration in management with a concentration in human resources and a minor in leadership studies from Tiffin University in 2019. During her time at TU, she was involved in Zeta Pi Beta Sorority, the National Society of Leadership and Success, cheerleading, STUNT, the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society and Delta Sigma Kappa.

Ian Fierro Class of 2023 Ian Fierro currently works in Sales at Grupo Agroindustrial San Miguel, where he enjoys the fastpaced nature of the food industry and the opportunity to build relationships with clients and collaborate across the business. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Tiffin University in 2023. During his time at TU, Fierro was a member of the men’s soccer team and was involved in student engagement. His favorite campus memory was winning the Great Midwest Athletic Conference championship with the soccer team. Fierro credits TU with giving him the confidence, practical skills and professional foundation to face real-world challenges.

and wellness from Tiffin University in 2024. During his time at TU, he was a member of the men’s soccer team. Meyers and his wife are the parents of two sons. Cody Bachmeier Class of 2024 Cody Bachmeier currently works as a proposal manager at WSP. He received his Master of Humanities from Tiffin University in 2024. Natalie Cole Watson Class of 2025 Natalie Cole Watson currently serves as chief operating officer of Lifeguide Friends Ltd., an organization she started and operates with her family to support individuals with developmental disabilities. She received her bachelor’s degree in business management from Tiffin University in 2025. Watson credits her TU coursework with strengthening her knowledge of business management and human services and helping her apply practical strategies to the continued growth of the organization.

Kyley Sigman Class of 2024 Kyley Sigman currently works as a postal police officer for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. She received her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in forensic psychology from Tiffin University in 2024. After completing an internship required for her degree, Sigman discovered a greater passion for law enforcement and relocated from Ohio to Washington, D.C., to pursue a career as a federal police officer.

Andrea Bush Class of 2025 Andrea Bush received her Master of Humanities in creative writing from Tiffin University in 2025. Since graduating, she has been working toward the publication of her novel and plans to begin querying literary agents this fall. Bush has also launched her author website and social media accounts, where she shares weekly puzzles and story prompts. She can be found on Facebook at Andrea Bush - Author and on Instagram at @andreabush_author.

James Michael Coulter Class of 2024 James Michael Coulter currently works as a deputy sheriff at the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office. He received his Bachelor of Criminal Justice from Tiffin University in 2024. Dalton Meyers Class of 2024 Dalton Meyers currently works as a strength and conditioning coach at Shawnee State University. He received his Bachelor of Arts in health, fitness 47

Philip Lake Class of 2025 Philip Lake currently works as a senior analyst and fraud investigator at Walmart’s headquarters. He received his Master of Business Administration in forensics and fraud examination from Tiffin University in 2025. Lake credits TU’s MBA program with preparing him for real-world situations and helping him secure his current position.

employee wellness programs. She also coaches high school track and field athletes. West received her Bachelor of Science in exercise science from Tiffin University in 2025. During her time at TU, she was a member of the track and field team and served as president of Zeta Pi Beta Sorority. Her favorite memories include winning Greek Olympics with her sorority and traveling to Georgia with the track and field team. West got married in June 2026.

Christina Delaney Spillman Class of 2025 Christina Spillman currently works as a teaching artist at Clayton Pace. She received her Master of Humanities in creative writing from Tiffin University in 2025.

Aaron Daniel Mass Class of 2026 Aaron Mass currently works as a system analyst at Triarc Solutions, where he supports longterm software used by oil companies. He received his Master of Business Administration in leadership and change from Tiffin University in 2026. Mass credits TU’s flexible and supportive academic environment with helping him balance a full-time career and family responsibilities while strengthening his confidence, strategic thinking and leadership skills. He and his wife, Stephanie, have two daughters, Amelia (11) and Avery (9). Amelia is a competitive dancer and Avery plays travel volleyball. The family enjoys taking at least one vacation each year, including a recent trip to New York City, where his daughters danced on Broadway and in Times Square.

Spencer A.C. Walker Class of 2025 Spencer Walker currently works as a fabrication supervisor at TronAir. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Tiffin University in 2025. Walker enjoys helping others develop professionally and seeing his team members grow. Taylor McKenna Peterson Class of 2025 Taylor Peterson currently works as an Auditor at Saltmarsh Advisors. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance from Tiffin University in 2025. During her time at TU, she was a member of the women’s volleyball team.

Dorian Rose Thompson Class of 2026 Dorian Rose Thompson currently works as a development officer at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She received her master’s degree from Tiffin University in 2026. During her time at TU, she was a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. Thompson and her fiancé, Chris, are getting married this September, and he joined her family in celebrating her Tiffin graduation.

Harley West Class of 2025 Harley West currently works as an exercise physiologist at Wayne HealthCare, where she supports individuals in cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, teaches fitness classes and contributes to corporate, community and 48

SPORTS SCENE Men’s Wrestling Repeats as G-MAC Champion, Earns Two All-American Honors Tiffin University’s men’s wrestling team completed another undefeated conference season, finishing 6-0 in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) duals to capture its second consecutive regular-season championship. TU continued its postseason success by placing third among 12 teams at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Super Region III Championships. Anthony Aniciete at 125 pounds, Nolan Gessler at 165 pounds and Emilio Arellano at 174 pounds each captured regional championships, while Jake Powell placed third at 285 pounds. All four advanced to the NCAA Division II Championships.

The men’s team placed second at the G-MAC Indoor Championships. Ramon Rodriguez was named Men’s Track Athlete of the Meet after winning the 3,000- and 5,000-meter runs. Rodriguez advanced to the NCAA Division II Indoor Championships, where he placed fourth in the 3,000-meter run with a school and conference record time of 7:57.90, earning First Team All-American honors. Nevaeh Lewis also represented TU at the national meet in the women’s 60-meter dash. Dring the outdoor season, the men’s team won the G-MAC Outdoor Championship, TU’s first outdoor conference title since 2023. Conference champions included Louis Ginane, Reggie Rogers, Johnny Howard, Rodriguez and Jordan Cortner. Head coach Mark Del Monaco was named G-MAC Men’s Outdoor Track and Field Coach of the Year.

Aniciete finished as the national runner-up at 125 pounds, becoming only the second wrestler in program history to reach an NCAA championship match. His finish also marked the best national showing by a 125-pound wrestler in TU history. Gessler placed sixth at 165 pounds, earning All-American honors for the second consecutive season. Aniciete also earned All-American recognition with his runner-up finish.

The women’s team placed fifth at both the G-MAC indoor and outdoor championships. Olivia Drozd won the outdoor 1,500-meter run, while Mikelia Strong captured the 100-meter hurdles title. Nine Dragons qualified for the NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships, where Cortner placed seventh in the 400-meter hurdles to earn First Team All-American honors. Brock Carlson finished 11th in the shot put and Drozd placed ninth in the 1,500-meter run to receive Second Team All-American recognition.

Track and Field Collects Conference Title and competes at NCAA Championships Tiffin University’s track and field teams collected conference championships, national qualifications and All-American honors throughout the indoor and outdoor seasons. 49

Softball Wins Back-to-Back G-MAC Championships, Bammann Named Head Coach Tiffin University’s softball team captured its second consecutive G-MAC regular-season championship following a 3-2 victory over the University of Findlay. The Dragons completed the regular season 32-12 overall and 20-4 in G-MAC play. TU earned its second consecutive NCAA Division II Midwest Regional selection and the fourth NCAA postseason berth in program history before finishing the season 34-16. Ella Esterby was named G-MAC Pitcher of the Year, while head coach Paige McMenemy received G-MAC Coach of the Year honors. Esterby, Lexi Key and Jessica Miller earned First Team All-G-MAC recognition, while Tara Gall was named to the Second Team. Jessica Miller also earned Second Team All-American honors in NCAA Division II.

Men’s Tennis Captures Sixth G-MAC Title in Seven Seasons, Women’s Tennis Advances to G-MAC Championship Match Tiffin University’s men’s tennis team captured its sixth G-MAC regular-season championship in seven seasons, completing conference play with an undefeated 8-0 record. The Dragons advanced to the G-MAC Tournament championship match and set a program record with 21 victories. TU also earned its fifth consecutive NCAA Division II Midwest Regional berth and finished the season 21-7. Romain Marionneau, Martin Driesner and Jose Portillo received First Team All-G-MAC honors, while Lorenzo Perucchini earned Second Team recognition. Head coach Phil Conley

Following the season, Megan (McMenemy) Bammann was promoted to head coach of the Tiffin University softball program. Bammann, who has served as an assistant coach since the 2022 season, succeeds Paige McMenemy, who led the Dragons to a 152-106 overall record, including a 79-41 mark in G-MAC play. 50

was named G-MAC Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season.

124 pounds during the NCAA Region IV Championships, which were hosted by TU. Sophia Antonio added a fourth-place regional finish at 138 pounds, while Erin Martin placed fifth and Jenavi Alejandro finished sixth in their respective weight classes.

Tiffin University’s women’s tennis team finished the season 15-10 and advanced to the G-MAC Tournament championship match. TU also climbed to No. 46 in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association’s NCAA Division II national rankings. Jemimah Choi was named G-MAC Player of the Year for the second consecutive season. Choi and Francesca Milani received First Team All-G-MAC honors, while freshman Brooke McNeal was named to the Second Team.

Day continued competing during the spring at the USA Wrestling National Championships, placing seventh in the U20 division at 55 kilograms to earn All-American honors. Seven Dragons also received NWCA Scholar AllAmerican recognition: Jenavi Alejandro, Sophia Antonio, Alaysia Coleman, Martin, Annesley Day, Gennaveve Matt and Abigail Miller.

STUNT Returns to National Championships Tiffin University’s STUNT team qualified for the National Championships for the second consecutive season after finishing the regular season 13-11 overall and 5-5 in G-MAC competition. The Dragons placed fourth at the G-MAC Championships and were ranked 11th nationally entering the postseason tournament in Nashville, Tennessee.

Golf Teams Earn NCAA Regional Berths Both Tiffin University men’s and women’s golf teams advanced to NCAA Division II regional competition following successful spring seasons. The men’s team placed third among 11 programs at the G-MAC Championship before tying for 13th among 20 teams at the NCAA Midwest/Central Regional. The women’s team finished fourth at the G-MAC Championship and placed 10th at the NCAA East Regional, improving its team score in each round. The women’s team led all TU athletic programs with a 3.85 team GPA during the 2025-26 academic year.

Annesley Day Advances to Inaugural NCAA Women’s Wrestling Championships Annesley Day represented Tiffin University at the inaugural NCAA Women’s Wrestling Championships after placing third at 51

Zack Blair named Head Football Coach Zack Blair has been named Head Football Coach at Tiffin University, following Brett Ekkens’ departure to begin his National Football League career as an offensive quality control coach for the Arizona Cardinals.

Jordan Sweeney Named Women’s Basketball Head Coach Following the conclusion of a national search, Jordan Sweeney has been selected as the next head coach of the women’s basketball program.

Blair has served as a Tiffin assistant coach for the last two seasons. He served as offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach and as recruiting coordinator. During Blair’s two seasons with the Dragons, the team went 15-8 including 13-5 in conference games. His offenses ranked among the best in the conference, as they led the G-MAC in offense in both 2025 (31.5 ppg) and 2024 (32.7). Blair served as pass game coordinator/running backs/recruiting coordinator for Saginaw State University in 2023. Prior to that, Blair was on the coaching staff of nationally ranked National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) program Indiana Wesleyan from 2020-22, coaching running backs, tight ends and wide receivers while also serving as passing game coordinator in 2022.

Sweeney comes to Tiffin after a three-year stint as associate head coach at Northern Michigan University. Competing in one of the premier Division II conferences, the GLIAC, Sweeney helped guide the Wildcats to a 70-27 overall record, including back-to-back trips to the second round of the NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball Championship in 2025 and 2026. Sterling Johnson named Head Men’s Basketball Coach Sterling Johnson has been named head men’s basketball coach at Tiffin University. Prior to coming to Tiffin, Johnson coached for two seasons at Grand Valley State University. In his first season at GVSU in 2024-25, Johnson 52

helped lead the Lakers to a 16-13 overall record and 12-8 GLIAC mark. Two Lakers earned AllGLIAC second team honors and three were named to the All-GLIAC defensive team which was the most out of any teams in the conference. Prior to coming to GVSU, Johnson spent one season as a graduate assistant at Virginia Tech.

NCAA Division III Athletic Communicators Emerging Elite Program. At Ithaca, Maira produced a wide range of content, including press releases, social media graphics and feature stories, while also assisting in the mentorship of more than 25 athletic communications and creative media student workers. Prior to Ithaca, Maira spent four years at Penn State Mont Alto as Assistant Director of Athletics and Sports Information Director. Maira’s earlier experience includes a graduate assistantship at Millersville University (2014–16) and an athletic communications internship at Franklin & Marshall College in 2016.

Ben Morhac named Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach Ben Morhac has been named head women’s lacrosse coach at Tiffin University. Prior to Tiffin, he was the head coach at Lawrence University in Wisconsin where he spearheaded the development of a start-up women’s lacrosse program. Before his stint at Lawrence, he was the head coach at NCAA Division II Notre Dame College in Cleveland, Ohio.

Brad Barlog Hired as Associate Athletic Director The Tiffin University Athletic Department has announced the hiring of Brad Barlog as Associate Athletic Director.

In 2021, he was named the Mountain East Conference (MEC) Coach of the Year. He was also a National Coach of the Year finalist. His 2021 squad finished top 20 in the country in multiple categories. During his four years at Notre Dame, he compiled a 34-21 record with a 24-4 mark in MEC play. Morhac also has coaching stops in Iowa, at Morningside College and Clarke University.

Barlog comes to Tiffin after serving the past two years as Director of Athletics & Student-Athlete Development at Delta College. In that role, he provided comprehensive leadership and oversight for the entire athletics department, with a strong focus on studentathlete success, operational excellence and program growth. Additionally, Barlog directed fundraising and marketing efforts in collaboration with campus partners, served as the primary media contact and helped strengthen community engagement through various outreach initiatives. Prior to his time at Delta College, Barlog served as Assistant Athletic Director of Facilities and Events at Saginaw Valley State University.

Frank Maira Named Sports Information Director Tiffin University welcomed Frank Maira as its new sports information director. Maira brings extensive experience across NCAA Division II and III athletics. Maira joins Tiffin after serving as athletics communications coordinator at Ithaca College (NCAA Division III) since 2021. During the winter of 2024, Maira was chosen to be a part of the inaugural cohort for the 53

2026 TIFFIN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME CLASS Tiffin University inducted six former student-athletes into the Athletics Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 Night of Champions. The class includes Logan Sendelbach, baseball; Jessica Harris, women’s basketball; Antonio Pipkin, football; Bobby Petras, football and track and field; Lynzi (Daughenbaugh) Kiefer, track and field; and Emily Roussel, women’s lacrosse.

Logan Sendelbach pitched for the Dragons from 2013-15 and earned All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) honors twice. He ranks third in program history in career earned run average. Sendelbach was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2015 Major League Baseball draft and spent four seasons in the minor leagues, reaching the Double-A level.

Jessica Harris played for the women’s basketball team from 2009-13. A threetime All-GLIAC selection, she is TU’s career leader in rebounds with 1,005 and ranks among the program’s top 20 scorers with 1,014 points. She also ranks in the top 10 in seven offensive categories.

Antonio Pipkin was a two-time All-American and four-time All-GLIAC selection from 201316. He was named GLIAC Player of the Year in 2016 and GLIAC Offensive Back of the Year in 2015. Pipkin was selected to compete in the Reese’s Senior Bowl and holds TU’s career record for completions and single-season records for passing yards and touchdowns. He ranks second in career passing yards and touchdowns and is among the program’s top 10 in 15 categories.

Bobby Petras competed in football and track and field from 2000-02. He was named the 2002 Independent Football Alliance (IFA) Defensive Player of the Year and earned first-team All-IFA and first-team All-Midwest Region honors. He also received second-team AllNortheast Region recognition from Football.com and thirdteam All-Northeast Region recognition from Dopke. com. Petras ranked third nationally in tackles in 2002 before playing five seasons on offense and defense in the Arena Football League. A four-year track and field letterwinner, he held TU records in the high jump, long jump and 4x100-meter relay. He also competes internationally in CrossFit. 56

Lynzi (Daughenbaugh) Kiefer competed in track and field from 2009-12. She earned first-team All-America honors in 2012 and was a two-time National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) qualifier in the heptathlon and pentathlon.

Emily Roussel was a two-time allregion and four-time All-GLIAC women’s lacrosse forward from 2013-16. She was twice named GLIAC Attacker of the Year and earned Synapse Sports All-Rookie recognition in 2013. Roussel appeared in the national statistical rankings 15 times during her career. She led the nation in goals scored in 2016 and ranked third in 2014. She is second in program history in career goals and points and ranks in the top 10 in 10 categories.

ALUMNI SCENE

MEET YOUR NEW DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS

ANDREA GIBSON ‘14

community engagement while helping individuals and families create lasting philanthropic legacies.

For Andrea Gibson, joining Tiffin University as Director of Alumni and Community Relations is more than a career move; it is a homecoming.

Throughout her professional career, Gibson has remained actively involved in community service, serving on numerous boards and committees dedicated to improving the quality of life in Northwest Ohio. Her work has consistently focused on building relationships, connecting people with opportunities and creating meaningful impact through collaboration.

A native of Tiffin, Gibson graduated from Calvert High School in 2002. Like many young adults, she was unsure of her long-term career path after high school and entered the workforce. During those early years, she married and began raising her family. Today, she is the proud mother of three children: daughters Aubrey (21) and Alexa (19) both current Tiffin University students and son Blake (15).

In 2019, she founded Giving Birthdays, a nonprofit organization that provides birthday celebrations for children and young adults in foster and kinship care ages 1 through 21. What began as a local effort has grown to serve four counties across Northwest Ohio, helping ensure that every child has the opportunity to feel celebrated on their special day.

In 2010, Gibson made the decision to return to college while balancing the demands of work and family. She enrolled in online courses through Tiffin University and earned her associate degree before continuing to complete a Bachelor of Business Administration in organizational management with a concentration in marketing. She graduated with honors in 2014.

Gibson’s commitment to community leadership has also been recognized through several professional and civic honors. She was a recipient of the Toledo 20 Under 40 award, recognizing emerging leaders who have demonstrated professional excellence and a commitment to making a positive impact throughout the region. She was also honored by the Sandusky County Chamber of Commerce as Citizen of the Year and a Clark Ambassador Award. While Gibson is grateful for the recognition, she views these accomplishments as reflections of the many partnerships and relationships she has built throughout her career. Whether working in economic development, philanthropy or nonprofit leadership, her focus has remained on bringing people together, strengthening communities and creating opportunities for others to succeed.

“Being a nontraditional student at Tiffin University helped shape who I am today,” Gibson said. “I understand firsthand the challenges and rewards of balancing education, work and family responsibilities. The support I received here made a lasting impact on my life.” While pursuing her degree, Gibson continued working full time and welcomed her son, Blake, into the family. After graduation, she joined the Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation, where she served as communications and projects administrator for eight years. In that role, she worked with businesses and community leaders throughout the region to support economic growth and development initiatives.

When the opportunity arose to return to work in her hometown and join Tiffin University, Gibson saw it as a chance to bring together her professional experience, passion for relationship-building and personal connection to the institution. “Working at Tiffin University truly feels like a full-circle moment,” Gibson said. “As a student, TU played an important role in helping me achieve my goals and discover my potential. It is an honor to now serve the University and the alumni community that helped make this institution what it is today.”

She later became executive director of the Sandusky County Communities Foundation, where she spent three years leading philanthropic initiatives that strengthened communities throughout the county. In her role, she worked closely with donors, nonprofit organizations and community leaders to steward charitable funds, connect resources to community needs and increase awareness of the Foundation’s impact. She helped facilitate grantmaking efforts, donor engagement opportunities and community partnerships that supported education, economic development, health and human services and qualityof-life initiatives. Through this work, Gibson gained valuable experience in fundraising, donor relations and

As Director of Alumni and Community Relations, Gibson is focused on creating meaningful connections 58

with alumni and friends of the University. Whether through one-on-one visits, TU Comes to You events, homecoming celebrations or other alumni activities throughout the year, she hopes to strengthen relationships and help alumni stay engaged with their alma mater. “I encourage alumni to reach out, schedule a visit and come back to campus,” Gibson said. “Whether you graduated this year or are celebrating 50+ years as an alum, I can promise that something has changed since your last visit. I would love the opportunity to reconnect, hear your story and show you what is happening at TU today.” Gibson is also excited about the continued growth of LIFE@TU, the University’s lifelong learning program for adults. Having been involved with the program this past semester, she has enjoyed seeing participants embrace new ideas, engage with one another and continue learning. “Lifelong learning is something I deeply value, and I would love to see more local alumni and community members take advantage of the opportunity to participate. The upcoming season has some incredible presentations and speakers planned, and I cannot wait to see the program continue to grow.” In her role, Gibson hopes to inspire alumni to think about the many ways they can remain involved with Tiffin University. “Tiffin University helped shape my future, and I know many alumni feel the same way,” Gibson said. “I encourage our alumni to consider how they can give back to their alma mater. Whether it’s sharing your expertise, opening doors for students, supporting a scholarship or investing in the future of the University through our capital campaign, every contribution helps create opportunities for tomorrow’s students.” For Gibson, returning to Tiffin University represents both a professional milestone and a personal opportunity to give back to the institution that played such an important role in her own journey. “I am proud to be a Dragon,” Gibson said. “The education I received at TU opened doors I never imagined possible, and I look forward to helping ensure that future students have access to the same opportunities for success.” 59

COMMENCEMENT 2026:

g n i m o c el W

This spring, Tiffin University proudly welcomed more than 1,000 graduates into the Tiffin University Alumni Association.

OUR NEWEST DRAGONS 2026 into the next chapter of their lives. It was an honor to welcome alumni representing classes from 1961 through 1976. Their presence served as a meaningful reminder of the lifelong connections that define the Tiffin University community. We are proud to continue this tradition and celebrate the generations of Dragons who have helped shape our university.

A special highlight of commencement was the participation of our Golden Grads, alumni celebrating 50 years or more since graduation. Members of the Class of 1976 and earlier returned to campus to take part in the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony, leading the Class of

UPCOMING EVENTS There is always something happening for Dragons. We invite you to reconnect, make new memories and stay engaged with your alma mater. Registration is encouraged for all events to help us create the best possible experience. •

October 16-17 – Columbus, Ohio • Columbus Marathon Booth and reception

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February 18-20 • Fun in Florida

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November 8-10 – Texas Dragon Tour • Sunday, Houston at Z on 23 Rooftop Bar 3-5 p.m. ($15 pp) • Monday, Dallas at The Henry 5:30-7:30 p.m. ($20 pp) • Tuesday, Austin at Meanwhile Brewing 5:30-7:30 p.m. ($20 pp)

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March 15-19 • Cancun – Valentin Imperial Maya

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April 19-23 • Nashville • Atlanta

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May • East Coast Tour • Washington D.C.

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December – Chateau Winery

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January 17-19 – Scottsdale, Arizona • Sunday, The Henry Scottsdale 4-6 p.m. ($30 pp) • Monday, The Henry Scottsdale 9-10:30 a.m. ($20 pp)

DRAGON ADVISED FUND FOR TIFFIN UNIVERSITY A Dragon Advised Fund at Tiffin University provides a simple, flexible and tax-efficient way to support the University’s mission and programs. You make a gift to establish the fund and remain actively involved in recommending how the fund is used to support Tiffin University initiatives. This approach allows you to give strategically while potentially receiving tax benefits.

provides a flexible and meaningful way to support the University’s mission while leaving a lasting legacy. Donors can demonstrate their commitment to students, faculty and programs and encourage others to get involved. A Dragon Advised Fund is typically less costly and time-consuming to manage than other philanthropic options such as a private foundation while still allowing you to support multiple initiatives and create a charitable legacy in your name or your family’s name.

HOW IT WORKS • Make a gift to Tiffin University of cash, appreciated stocks, real estate or other assets. • We establish a fund in your name, your family’s name, your business’s name or in honor of any person or organization you choose. • You recommend grants from the fund to support programs, scholarships or other initiatives at Tiffin University. • Your gift may provide tax benefits in the year it is made. • Our team is available to help you explore ways your fund can make a meaningful impact at Tiffin University.

By working through Tiffin University, your gift may qualify for maximum tax advantages under federal law while benefiting from the expertise of our staff in directing grants areas on campus that align with your interests. You can establish a fund today and make grant recommendations now or in the future. LET’S CONNECT Contact us at 419.448.3584 or blondemp@tiffin. edu to learn more about ways a Dragon Advised Fund at Tiffin University can help you make a lasting impact on the causes you care about most.

ADVANTAGES A Dragon Advised Fund at Tiffin University 61

TIFFIN UNIVERSITY

2026 ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENTS Dena Wireman ‘07

Second Team All-GLIAC honors, two NCAA Division II All-Region selections and the TU school record in the javelin.

Young Alumni Achievement Award Dena Wireman, a 2007 Tiffin University graduate with a degree in marketing and management, has built a career rooted in entrepreneurship, leadership and community service. As a student, she served as a resident assistant and head resident, competed on the women’s tennis team, earned dean’s list honors and was elected homecoming queen twice.

After graduation, Wolff began his career in juvenile probation before transitioning into retail operations with Speedway and 7-Eleven. Over the past decade, he has advanced through several leadership roles and currently serves as Operations Services Manager for 7-Eleven. He has also served on the company’s Area Leader Advisory Council and developed a reputation for building high-performing teams. Wolff is actively involved with the Piqua Area Chamber of Commerce, volunteers with the Wood County Special Olympics and supports Children’s Miracle Network fundraising efforts. He also received the 2019 Piqua Commercial Beautification Award. Alongside his professional accomplishments, he is a devoted husband to his wife, Rachel, and proud father to their son, Jameson.

After graduation, Wireman joined her family’s business, Haehn Florist, Greenhouses & Flower Delivery, helping lead operations, marketing and business development. In 2020, she founded Krave Creamery, transforming a vacant downtown Wapakoneta building into an awardwinning business that was named the 2023 Emerging Business of the Year by the Wapakoneta Area Chamber of Commerce. Wireman also serves several community organizations and supports local schools, nonprofits, youth programs and events through both businesses.

Theresa “Terry” Nibblett ‘84

Alumni Service Award Theresa “Terry” Nibblett, a 1984 Tiffin University graduate with a degree in business administration, has devoted her life to public service, leadership and her community. As a student, she competed in volleyball and softball, supported student activities and worked full time as a Tiffin Municipal Court bailiff. She received the Koehl Student Leadership Award upon graduation.

Jared Wolff ‘12

Young Alumni Achievement Award Jared Wolff, a 2012 Tiffin University graduate with a degree in business administration, has built a career defined by leadership, operational excellence and community service. As a student-athlete, he competed in football and track and field, earning First and

Nibblett later served nearly three decades in federal law enforcement with the Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Customs Service, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and 62

U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Her career included investigating international criminal cases, serving as a U.S. Customs Assistant Attaché in Bangkok, Thailand, managing international programs and developing training for foreign law enforcement agencies. She received several national awards for her contributions to public service. A U.S. Army veteran, Nibblett continues to serve Tiffin University and the local community. She is a member of the TU Alumni Association Board, volunteers with the Office of Alumni and Advancement and was an original member of the LIFE@TU program and curriculum committee. She also serves with the League of Women Voters, Seneca County Board of Elections and numerous local organizations.

and service instilled during his time at Tiffin University. His dedication to mentoring others, strengthening communities and putting people first has left a lasting impact on generations of families.

Dr. Ron Schumacher ‘96

Alumni Achievement Award Dr. Ron Schumacher, a 1996 Tiffin University graduate with an MBA, has dedicated his career to advancing higher education and student success. His connection to Tiffin University spans more than three decades, beginning as an assistant football and softball coach before serving as head softball coach, director of admissions, vice president for enrollment management and later vice president for development and public affairs.

James “Jim” Warfel ‘67

Alumni Achievement Award James “Jim” Warfel, a 1967 Tiffin University graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration in administrative management, has built a life centered on leadership, professional excellence and service to others. After graduation, he served during the Vietnam War before beginning a successful career in pharmaceutical sales, where he became known as an innovative leader, mentor and trusted professional.

Dr. Schumacher later served as vice president for enrollment at the University of Saint Francis before becoming president of Terra State Community College. As a first-generation college graduate, he has championed educational access, workforce development, strategic enrollment, institutional advancement and community partnerships.

Warfel also devoted decades to serving youth and strengthening his community. A longtime Optimist Club member and past president, he coached youth sports, founded the TriBoro Area Coalition for Positive Community Services. He also organized community safety education programs and led Toys for Tots and Food for the Needy initiatives for more than two decades. After retiring to Florida, Warfel organized an annual charity golf tournament that has raised more than $500,000 for local hospice care.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Schumacher has remained deeply engaged in civic leadership through service on numerous community boards and as an active member of Rotary International. Throughout his career, he has exemplified servant leadership by fostering meaningful partnerships, mentoring future leaders and creating opportunities that positively impact both students and communities.

Throughout every stage of his life, Jim has exemplified the values of leadership, compassion 63

ALUMNI AWARDS:

CELEBRATE A FELLOW DRAGON Tiffin University alumni are making an impact every day as leaders, professionals, volunteers and champions for their communities. Each year, we proudly recognize those achievements through the Alumni Achievement Award, Young Alumni Award and Alumni Service Award.

Nominate an outstanding alumnus or alumna by visiting the Alumni Awards webpage at tiffin.edu/ advancement/alumni/awards. Congratulations to our 2026 Alumni Award recipients, who were recognized during the Night of Champions as part of Homecoming and Family Weekend.

These awards honor graduates who exemplify strong personal integrity, outstanding character and a commitment to serving their communities and society.

Do you know a fellow Dragon whose accomplishments deserve to be recognized? We invite you to submit a

nomination. The nomination period for the 2027 Alumni Awards is open now through April 30.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD NEWS The Alumni Association extends its sincere appreciation to Kristen Robinson (‘09, ‘12) and Jessica Palmer (‘19) for their six years of dedicated service on the Alumni Association Board. Their leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact on the University and its alumni community. At the board’s annual meeting this fall, both will be recognized as emeritus members.

The Alumni Association Board continues to welcome alumni who are passionate about strengthening the Dragon network and helping shape the future of alumni engagement. ABOUT THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD The Tiffin University Alumni Association Board serves as an advisory body that helps strengthen lifelong connections between alumni and the University. Board members bring their professional experience, leadership and enthusiasm to support alumni engagement, student success and the University’s strategic priorities.

We are also pleased to welcome our newest board members:

• Jacob Zinn (‘22, ‘23) • Sheila Fryson (‘08, ‘10)

All Tiffin University graduates are automatically members of the Alumni Association; there are no membership dues. Today, the Dragon network includes more than 18,000 living alumni across the United States and around the world.

• Danelle Bradley (‘21, ‘23) • Ashley Madison (‘13) • Joe Graesle (‘14, ‘19)

Learn more about the Alumni Association Board and opportunities to get involved at tiffin.edu/ advancement/alumni/association-board.

• Chris Wolcott (‘13) 64

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 domestic first-year students who have been accepted to TU and who plan to attend TU oncampus in the fall of 2027 receive an academic scholarship ranging from $12,000 to $19,000 toward 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 $12,000 to $19,000 and must start in the fall of 2027. 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.

Curiosity never retires. Neither does learning. Tiffin University’s LIFE@TU program, designed for adults age 50 and older, returned this fall with another season of lifelong learning and connection. The fall 2026 semester features engaging Friday presentations led by University faculty, historians and regional experts. Sessions are now held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., providing additional time for conversation and networking. Annual and semester memberships are available, along with $10 single-session and guest passes on a first-come, first-served basis. Membership benefits include reserved parking, access to session recordings, discounted dining opportunities and invitations to special events.

Whether you’re a returning member or considering LIFE@TU for the first time, we invite you to join this community of lifelong learners. 66

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP:

FALL 2026

Cost $150 (20 sessions) includes:

SCHEDULE & TOPICS:

•

• September 25 - The Future of American Education: Expert Panel • October 2 - America 250: Historians Spotlight their Favorite Trailblazers • October 23 - Exonerated: The Work of the Ohio Innocence Project • October 30 - Remedies & Romance: An International Culture & Traditions Conversation • November 6 - American Standard: How a Small-Town Pottery Helped Build an American Manufacturing Success Story • November 13 - (America 250) Rutherford & Lucy Hayes: America’s First Power Couple • November 20 - Safari Stories: Africa’s Animals & People Through the Lens 67

• • • • • • • • • • •

A welcoming community of smart, curious, seasoned adults who appreciate the benefits of lifelong learning Twenty in-person, two-hour interactive sessions Reserved parking next to the Gillmor Student Center LIFE@TU membership card Access to video-recorded presentations after the event Free or discounted admission to TU athletic and arts events Discounted pricing in Cole Dining Hall LIFE@TU guest passes at $10 per pass Fifteen percent discount at Wall Street Pub & Grille Networking, social opportunities and engagement outside of sessions Six small-group Tech for Seniors classes

SIGN UP NOW! We would love to have you join the LIFE@TU Family! To become a member or for more information, visit tiffin.edu/LIFE@TU, email johnstonml@tiffin.edu or call 567.268.6095.

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 edication. 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 and ages five, 10 and 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 toward earning a college degree. The qualify for the program, the parent or legal guardian must be a graduate of TU and complete and 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.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO THE LEFT TO SIGN UP FOR THE DRAGON LEGACY PROGRAM.

TIFFIN UNIVERSITY:

CELEBRATING THE 138TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY On Saturday, May 2, Tiffin University celebrated its 138th Commencement Ceremony, honoring graduates from 24 countries and 43 states. The Class of 2026 included 13 doctoral, 502 master’s and 510 bachelor’s degree recipients. New this year, TU held two ceremonies: a graduate ceremony and an undergraduate ceremony.

mentorship, collaboration and sharing your journey with the next generation of Dragons.” In the afternoon, President Schumacher addressed undergraduates: “Many of you have balanced coursework, jobs, athletics and personal responsibilities along the way. That level of commitment is what makes this achievement so meaningful.” She continued, “You are not the same individuals who began this journey. You have grown in knowledge, perspective and resilience.”

The graduate ceremony opened with remarks from President Lillian B. Schumacher, “Today, we recognize not only the academic achievements of our master’s and doctoral graduates, but also the discipline, focus and purpose that have guided you here,” Dr. Schumacher said. “Many of you have balanced careers, families and countless responsibilities while pursuing advanced degrees, demonstrating a level of commitment that truly sets you apart.” She added, “At the heart of that commitment is our purpose to transform lives through education. Today, we see that transformation realized through all of you.”

Board of Trustees Chair Andrew J. Felter delivered the undergraduate address, reflecting on his connection to TU. “When I step onto Tiffin University’s campus, I feel something that is hard to put into words. It feels like home,” Felter said. He also challenged graduates to reflect not only on earning a degree, but on everything it represents. “You did not just earn a degree. You earned confidence. You earned perspective. You earned the right to say: I did something hard and I succeeded.” Felter also received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in recognition of his leadership and service to the University and community.

Graduate commencement speaker Shawn R. Smith urged graduates to lead with purpose. “You are entering a world that is not lacking success. It is lacking leaders who make a meaningful difference in the lives of others,” Smith said. He added, “The question is no longer can you succeed. You have already proven that. The question is how will you choose to matter?” Smith was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters during the ceremony. Dr. Peter J. Holbrook recognized his impact, stating, “We recognize not only your accomplishments, but the example you set that success is most meaningful when it uplifts others.”

Student Government President Demi Brown reflected on shared experience. “Standing here today is something I do not take lightly because none of us got here by accident. Every person here has a story filled with late nights, early mornings, stress, doubt, growth and perseverance.” She added, “You do not need everything figured out. You do need to keep going.”

Doctoral graduates were then hooded by Dr. Rickard Briggs, who presented each candidate and their dissertation work, marking a major academic milestone. Graduates were then recognized as they crossed the stage, celebrating the completion of their programs.

Alumni representative Sheila Fryson welcomed graduates to the alumni network, saying, “Being a Tiffin University alumnus is not just a title, it is a responsibility and a privilege,” and encouraged them to “Go out and build up others, make a difference every day and never forget those who helped you get here.”

Alumni representative Jacob Zinn welcomed graduates into the alumni community. “This took discipline, late nights, early mornings, sacrifice and more persistence than most people ever see from the outside,” he said. “Being a Tiffin University alumnus is more than a LinkedIn title. It’s about connections. It’s about

Degrees were formally conferred, officially welcoming graduates into the alumni community. Across both ceremonies, the Class of 2026 was recognized for achievement, resilience and growth as they begin their next chapter. 69

Congratulations

2026 TU GRADS

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