FindlayMag - Fall 2017

Fall 2017

From the President Vol. 104, No. 1, Fall 2017

At the University of Findlay, we have entered a transformative academic era marked by significant campus improvements. The fall completion of the Center for Student Life and College of Business has energized and transformed our campus like never before.

It is providing wonderful synergy for intellectual growth, collaboration and connection. We are particularly thankful to the donors who have helped bring this project to fruition.

Our Center for Student Life and College of Business story not only details what the facility has to offer the campus and public, but also how the students, staff and community members who grace its spaces will benefit from their experiences there. Such a meaningful advancement also calls for reflection regarding how we arrived here in the first place.

Therefore, this issue includes a historical look at student experiences, and links to additional information that celebrates the fascinating history of this University. The fun profile on how our mascot, Derrick the Oiler, has changed over the years is a must-read!

I hope you catch the enthusiasm of our community as we celebrate our continually evolving physical campus, enhanced programs and the students who will thrive as a result.

Sincerely,

Katherine Fell, Ph.D. President

FindlayMag is published by the University of Findlay. It is mailed free of charge to alumni, parents and friends of the University twice each year.

President Katherine Fell, Ph.D. Editor Joy Brown Art Director Irene Martin Photographers Anne Risser Lee Amy DePuy Writers Joy Brown Amy DePuy Caitlin Paynich, M.S. Director, The Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents and Friends Dee Dee Spraw ’00, M’07

Stay in touch with UF! You can keep up with the news at the University of Findlay on a monthly basis by subscribing to our e-newsletters.

• ArchLink – a general newsletter about the latest campus happenings and academic programs, with special updates on alumni events • Mazza Mail – a monthly update on all the exciting programs and events at the Mazza Museum • Inside the Arch – an insider’s look at campus for parents, with special tips and advice To register for the online newsletters, go to www.findlay.edu/newsletters.

Contents Page 20

Page 48

Page 52

Fall 2017

Features 4 | Then & Now 6 | Center of Attention

Center for Student Life and College of Business Opens Doors

by Joy Brown

14 | The Cave

The Original Student Life Center

by Caitlin Paynich, M.S.

20 | Findlay's Favorite Oiler

The Making of a Mascot

Departments 26 | Donor Impact 30 | On Campus 34 | Alumni Events 37 | Class Notes 45 | End Notes

by Amy DePuy

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1904 View of Old Main from the south

1937 Old Main Front Entrance

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1968 View of Old Main from the south

2017 Old Main Front Entrance

2017 View of Old Main from the south

Findlay College Commencement

2017 University of Findlay Commencement

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Center for Student Life and College of Business Opens Doors

by Joy Brown

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T

he first thing Cody Ohnmeiss did when he returned to the University of Findlay in August, following extensive summer internship travels, was drive over to the new Center for Student Life and College of Business to see how construction had progressed. He also wanted to acquire a sense of place where his academic, social and spiritual life would expand in preparation for meaningful service elsewhere. He was not disappointed.

“I’m excited!” he said just before the fall semester commenced. “It was nighttime when I went over there, and I took a picture of it for my Snapchat story. I think it’s going to be a great opportunity, not only for us College of Business students, but it’s going to be great for the entire campus and the Findlay community as well.”

Ohnmeiss, a junior from Saint Paris, Ohio, characterized the striking, open-concept building adorned with several floor-to-ceiling glass walls and expansive entryways, as “pretty.” But the structure’s aesthetics simply serve as proverbial window treatments to the important transformational experiences it is now enabling both on campus and far beyond it.

The center’s two-fold purpose, as evidenced by its name, represents a continuing holistic approach to higher education at the University of Findlay that is meant to optimize the learning, social and vocational experiences of all who work, study and visit. What it also has done is provide a focal shift toward new indoor and outdoor campus spaces where studying, gathering and collaboration now better represent globalized living and workforce trends.

Additionally, this project is supported by over 410 individuals, corporations and foundations, which is the largest number of donors compared to any in the UF campus’ history, according to Marcia Latta, Ed.D., vice president for University Advancement.

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Feb. 2017 April 2017

From the College of Business perspective, the Center is providing space, ambiance and technology that mirror those found in corporate boardrooms, small business offices, government centers and nonprofits around the world. Dwindling are tools that cater to individual use. In their place are equipment and software that focus on collaborative and engaging production. The College of Business’ new headquarters is not only being used to impart necessary knowledge about subjects such as introductory accounting and public relations, but about the latest cybersecurity and social media sales methods too.

For Victoria Walker, a senior from Hillsborough, Ohio who is majoring in agricultural business and marketing, taking business courses in the Center instead of in Old Main, where the College of Business has been located for several years, is helping her “see things in a different way,” both literally and figuratively. The transparent spaces better mirror real-world innovative practices, and the technology is offering stellar preparation for careers that require advanced communication

skills, assertiveness and adaptive digital dexterity. Some of the Center’s rooms feature multiple screens built into walls.

“We don’t have projectors anywhere,” said Walker. “The way it’s set up, we can collaborate with each other while we’re still watching a video or brainstorming ideas. It’s just really nice for working on projects and learning from each other as well.”

College of Business Dean Kevin Renshler said the building was purposefully designed for academic advancement, particularly for a student’s “entire experience, starting the day you enter the University until the day you graduate.” The glass-enclosed faculty offices make instructors more accessible.

The multiple common areas encourage collaboration on class projects and offer hangout spots for brainstorming and leisure.

“We get to transfer all those activities and efforts into the classrooms, which are in the middle of the building,” said Renshler. Most of the lower-level business classes are held in the east wing, and the majority of the advanced courses at the 300-level and up are offered on the west side of the building.

“There’s an opportunity for

Sept. 2017

Everybody’s Business

Nov. 2016

Sept. 2016

March 2016

Construction Progress

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constant activity and there’s a purpose behind the workflow. The key is, you want to end up in the boardroom, which is in the corner of the west side of the building. That represents the culmination to your experience here at the University of Findlay. It’s all about the journey,” Renshler explained.

Walker’s excitement about the building also derives from her involvement in its creation – she worked in University Advancement, making fund appeals to students’ parents.

“It was really cool to be on that end of things, seeing the renderings and then watching it being built,” said Walker.

“Old Main has been wonderful to us for so many years, but it’s neat to see the College of Business hitting that growth spurt and making that progress,” said Tyler Adkins, a sophomore whose tailored degree in entrepreneurship is already paying off with a screen printing business he has launched. Called TuitionThreads, the company also donates a portion of its profits to schools to provide scholarships for students. Adkins said he is looking forward to dynamic coursework in the new building that will help him expand his “social entrepreneurship” endeavor.

Ohnmeiss, a scholarship recipient and member of UF’s Roughnecks wrestling team, completed a summer sales internship with products supplier MWI Animal Health, a subsidiary of AmeriSource Bergen. He traveled

throughout several states, visiting multiple veterinary clinics each day. The work fit with his outgoing personality and desire to help others.

Walker interned for the same company this past summer, and has had previous internships at RFD TV in Nashville, Tennessee and Kalmbach Feeds based in Upper Sandusky.

Those experiences have expanded her love of marketing. “I like helping a company get their word out about their services,” she said.

The new building is continuing to help Walker tailor her studies.

“Agricultural business marketing isn’t a major here. I created it because it combines all of my interests,” she said.

“I worked with a professor to pick the best business classes and the best animal science classes to get me on the right path.”

Walker’s UF learning experience is indicative of the College of Business as a whole as it settles into the new building. Renshler said that they plan to revise the undergraduate program to focus on individual interests. Combined are a common core of classes that distinguishes the program, bonds students and allows them the flexibility to switch majors if they wish while remaining on a four-year degree path.

During their studies, they may develop their own program of study.

“We can strategically come up with an individualized plan for each student. So as an individual, you say, ‘Here I am today, and at the end of my experience with the University

"I think it’s going to be a great opportunity, not only for us College of Business students, but it’s going to be great for the entire campus and the Findlay community as well.”

-Cody Ohnmeiss of Findlay I want to be positioned here because this reflects who I am and what I want to do in regards to my career,” Renshler said. For an undergraduate business program, that’s “quite unique,” he noted.

Adkins, Walker and Ohnmeiss exemplify the types of students that the Center for Student Life and College of Business is serving – those who understand the increasing intersectionality of business and the value of disruption, and who have the confidence to become leaders within the globalized economy.

Additionally, the new facility is further assisting the University’s Master of Business Administration program as it pertains to strategic leadership instruction.

The MBA “is an option for people who want to enter or advance their careers in the private sector, the public sector or in government,” Renshler maintained. “It’s not very limited. It’s not a niche program. It’s open to all,

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and again, we have that individualized emphasis, so we’re really going to work with you and what you need to develop as a person and as a professional.”

Edification Station Although one of its best assets, providing an environment for superior learning isn’t the new building’s only function. Planners also envisioned an integrated holistic space that is capable of serving a wide array of visitors for multiple purposes.

For instance, Ohnmeiss and hundreds of others involved with Campus Ministries are using dedicated space in the TLB Christian Fellowship Room for activities such as Bible studies and organizational meetings. The room is a complement to the ministry house and Winebrenner Theological Seminary that are continuing to be used for events such as Thursday evening Revive worship services and other functions.

Space within the Center for Student Life “is helping us reinforce what we’re doing” in terms of vocational focus, said Matt Ginter, Campus Ministries director and pastor. One of the University’s primary foci is assisting students with identifying avenues that combine their spiritual life – Christian or otherwise - with their career aspirations. Although Christian based and focused, the University of Findlay, a secular institution, serves students from all religious denominations.

Also, the building will directly serve the surrounding community with its Center for Civic Engagement (CCE), a collaborative organization, established in 2016, that was formed to find solutions to some of the region’s most challenging issues. In keeping with the building’s comprehensive mission, the CCE relies on individuals and resources to engage in dialogue and problem-solving for dilemmas such as inadequate transportation and affordable housing options.

Tricia Valasek, UF grants coordinator, characterized the Center for Student Life space as “extremely advantageous” for the CCE. The organization’s new director, Leigh Esper, will have an office just outside of the Duane and Kathleen Jebbett

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Campus Leadership Room on the first floor, she said.

“The CCE will reserve this space, which has easy access to the parking lots and food court, for individual coalition meetings and to host other conversations. Given all the technology and movable furniture in the room, the space is extremely conducive to facilitating engaged meetings. The active learning spaces will encourage and foster more collaboration and brainstorming, two key components of a successful collective impact initiative,” Valasek noted.

Student volunteers will eventually assist at the CCE, which will also bring the University and community together for meaningful service.

Additionally, UF is using the facility to honor several of its alumni, former students and staff who are particularly known for self-sacrifice – military veterans who have served our country.

The Veterans Honor Wall, sponsored by the Class of 1966 Reunion Committee.

A Veterans Day observance was held

at the site on Nov. 10, 2017. Currently there are 640 names on the wall with plans to add more.

Food and Fellowship Sushi can now be had at UF, and it’s the talk of campus. The Refinery in the Center for Student Life, made possible

by Sodexo dining services, is offering expanded eating options featuring Mexican, Asian and American cuisine.

Selections range from quick eats to made-to-order meals.

The signature eatery is Mein Bowl, which serves authentic Asian food made at a wok station and dishes by Chef Mai Phan, whose recipes and flavors occasionally have been featured for special events at Henderson Dining Hall.

Jazzman’s Brew and Bakery and Oilers on the Go are serving muffins, cookies, coffee and more. The Rig was relocated from The Village and still serves traditional, popular fare such as milkshakes and chicken wings.

Tres Habaneros offers quesadillas and more south-of-the-border favorites.

SubConnection sells delicious sandwiches, subs, wraps and salads.

The Center’s atrium area provides an expansive place for meal consumption, good conversation and informal collaborative meetings.

Complementing the indoor space is outdoor seating on the Marathon Petroleum Corporation Patio, and lawn areas surrounding the building, which were sodded in September.

“It’s going to be a very active hub on campus. I think that it’s going to be neat to see the new energy the building brings to campus, and the new life that it brings as well,” Adkins said.

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The Cave in Old Main, 1957

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The Original Student Life Center

by Caitlin Paynich, M.S. FindlayMag | 15

Old Main Cafe, 1942

ds, 1960 Harry Richar

T

The Cave in Old Main, 1957

he time spent at college can be one of the most fun and formative times in students' lives, and the transformation doesn’t just happen in the classroom. Every aspect of student life is influential. Student life at Findlay College began in 1886 when classes began in Old Main, the building where everything happened. Now that you’ve read about the new Center for Student Life, take a look back at what things were like years ago and the impression the first “student life center” left on students.

The initial space on Findlay’s campus specifically designated for student life was known as “The Cave” and was found in the basement of Old Main. “The room was long, narrow and rather dark. There were several booths along one wall and three or four tables at the end. There was a grill, deep fryer and an ice cream freezer for equipment, so the menu was pretty limited. Profound discussions and a few romances took place there,” said Harry Richards ’60.

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When Richards, who graduated from then Findlay College in 1960 with a bachelor’s degree in business, read about the new Center for Student Life and College of Business in the last issue of FindlayMag, he started to think about his own time at Findlay and what student life was like then. After serving for two years in the U.S. Army, he came to Findlay on the GI Bill in 1956 while working full time and supporting his family. He didn’t spend much time

The Cave in Old Main, 1957

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on campus, but when he did, “The Cave” – as described – was the place to be.

Part of the first major alteration of Old Main, “The Cave” was located underneath an addition to the west that accommodated 25,000 additional volumes for the library according to “Findlay College: The First Hundred Years” written by G. Richard Kern, Ph.D., professor emeritus of history. “The Cave” was also under student management, which gave them the opportunity to experience purchasing, sales and serving the public. With chairs and tables for conversation and relaxation and even a chess table, the location became a popular hangout for students and faculty. When the Alumni Memorial Union opened in 1961, the new snack bar kept the name.

“No one wanted to change it,” said Jim Paule who graduated in 1965.

Coming to Findlay in 1961, he witnessed the transformation of the student space first hand. “What a far cry from the basement of Old Main! It was on the cutting edge, and we were lucky to experience that.” He remembers spending time in the AMU between classes or eating lunch. “It was a social hangout for the whole campus,” he said.

Paule considers his time at Findlay from 196265 as “one of the greatest periods of my life.” He added, “We really had a wonderful social life. I can’t say enough about the great experience I had with the Alpha Kappa Omega fraternity. The Greek system had a real camaraderie at the time. We had a lot of fun together.” Paule served as treasurer for the fraternity and was a charter member as it became affiliated with the national organization, Alpha Sigma Phi. From football and basketball games and student group activities with Young Republican’s Club and Circle K, Paule enjoyed every Oiler experience. He even fondly remembers “Bed Races” where students would compete, by pushing someone in a bed down Alumni Memorial Union Groundbreaking, 1960 Main Street. “You don’t really remember cramming for a test, but you remember the fun stuff,” he said.

Even after some reorganization of the dining spaces on campus with the opening of the new building, the space in the AMU has retained the name “The Cave,” and Paule was glad to hear it. The popular stop and study space is the venue for many student memories from throughout the years. “My favorite place to study was The Cave,” said Samantha Cares ’17. “It had all of my coffee and food needs, plus you never knew who you'd run into to study with!”

As the campus undergoes another cutting-edge transformation, Paule can “only imagine” the experience students will have in the new space. “They should be proud of the new facilities. What a neat experience! They have technology and tools available to them that we never even dreamt of,” he said.

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Bed Races , 1967

The Cave in the Alumni Memorial Union, 1965

The Cave, 2015

e, 2017 The Cav

The Cave, 2017

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Findlay's Favorite Oiler The Making of a Mascot by Amy DePuy Women love him, children adore him, and men wish they could grow a beard like him. Derrick the Oiler is the living spirit of the University of Findlay, but this oil rig roughneck isn’t just an athletic good luck charm with stunning facial hair. This young mascot has a story worth sharing.

For the past 16 years, Derrick has used his friendly and charismatic personality to win the hearts of Oiler fans. Whether a child needs a friendly mascot hug, a cheerleader is looking for added spirit or fans are seeking high-intensity highfives, Derrick the Oiler is at the ready. Sixteen years might seem like a long time, but in local mascot years Derrick is rather young. Most of his local university counterparts to the north and south are well over 60 years old. In fact, some of you might be scratching your heads right now wondering, “Where did this guy come from?” Well, sit back and relax. You’re about to find out.

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The Pre-Derrick Era Finding just the right mascot involved a lot of trial and error. There were other mascot versions throughout Findlay’s history – some of them amusing, and some of them downright scary - that just never stuck.

The first recorded mascot for Findlay was a cartoon character who surfaced in 1937, around the same time Findlay adopted “Oilers” as the school nickname. This version of the mascot resembled a monkey face man with an oil can and fancy shoes. The first known time of a student donning mascot gear appears in the 1969 Findlay College yearbook, The Argus. Noted only as “the Oiler mascot,” a spirited student by the name of John “Red” Fox wore an oversized head resembling a rugged beardless man in a hardhat and led cheers on the football field with Findlay College cheerleaders.

Nearly 15 years later, a mascot by the name of “Oilerman” was played by Dean Clemons ’83.

“One of the cheerleaders asked me to do it during the fall of 1982,” said Clemons.

“One of my all-time favorite memories as Oilerman was jumping up on the goal posts and screaming at the players as they came out,” he added. Unlike his predecessor, Clemons didn’t wear a mascot head. Instead, he wore a multi-colored wig, football jersey and pants and, at times, an ape mask.

Two years after Clemons, Dennis Fernandez ’86 was asked to take the helm as Findlay College’s mascot.

“I honestly didn’t even know what it was, so I went and spoke with Coach Jim Houdeshell. He gave me the paper mache head that was in his office and said, ‘Here it is’. After that, I just went to the local sporting goods store, bought some black sweat pants, white shoes and an orange T-shirt and had ‘Oilerman’ ironed onto the front in black lettering,” said Fernandez. After outfitting himself in his vision of Oilerman, Fernandez was ready to entertain and energize Findlay College students.

“One of my favorite memories playing Oilerman was doing the Dean Clemons ’83 as Oilerman moonwalk for the first time during halftime at a basketball game. The football players in the stands went crazy because Michael Jackson had just done it a few weeks earlier for the first time on the Motown 25 Special,” he added. Fernandez played the part of Oilerman until 1986.

The early 90s brought a new spin on Findlay’s mascot, and a different name. Students who played “Ollie” sported a larger-than-life head with bushy eyebrows and giant eyes.

Atop his large head he wore a fabric hard hat. He also wore a large varsity F on his shirt, jeans and work boots.

Finally, A Legend Was Drawn Each year, as summer ends and fall begins, a sense of newness and excitement fills the campus. Fall 2000 brought an added element of adventure – a contest to design Findlay’s next mascot. Then coordinator of athletic marketing and promotions, Charlie Ernst, thought the time had come for the University of Findlay to have a proper mascot, so he enlisted the help of the student body.

“We wanted to make sure our students were involved in the process, so we held a ‘Design the Mascot’ contest,” said Ernst. Flyers were posted around campus and an ad was placed in the campus newspaper, The Pulse, asking students to design their version of an “Oiler.” The ad noted that the term “Oilers” was adopted by then Findlay College in 1937 as

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1982 Oilerman 1937

1969 Oilerman

1984 Oilerman

1984 Oilerman

1991 Ollie

Sketch by Sarah (King ‘02) Mitchell

Tracy (Kroger ’02) Wilson as the first Derrick the Oiler in 2001

Oilerman Dean Clemons ’83 and 2017 Derrick the Oiler

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a nickname for the institution and the term was derived from the late 1800s when rowdy, dirty and tough men who worked on the drilling rigs in the Findlay area were called “oilers.”

Armed with background knowledge on an oiler and the incentive of a $100 gift card to the campus bookstore, student submissions began pouring in. It was Sarah (King ‘02) Mitchell who won the grand prize and the claim to fame of designing and naming the University’s first official mascot.

“My original design was just an image I had in my head of what an ‘Oiler’ should look like – rough and ready. Charlie really liked it, but asked that I give him a helmet and Findlay colors. I was very pleased with how it turned out. The name ‘Derrick’ came from oil derrick, which is another name for an oil rig,” said Mitchell. Her Derrick the Oiler design was announced as the winning submission during the 2000 homecoming football game.

At the time, Mitchell admits she didn’t give much thought to the impact Derrick would have on campus life. “Seeing now what a visible part he plays on campus is really quite impressive. It’s neat to think that I’ve made a lasting mark on the University and its history,” she added.

After nearly one year of design and production with a costume design company, Derrick officially arrived on Friday, Oct. 13, 2001. Later that month on Oct. 17 Derrick the Oiler made his burly campus debut at a basketball game. Tracy (Kroger ’02) Wilson was honored to be the very first student to play Derrick the Oiler.

“I remember everyone being so excited when I came out on the court as Derrick. It’s really neat that I was the very first student to play Derrick! I’ve always had a lot of school pride and I love sports so I jumped on the opportunity to be closer to the action,” said Wilson. Her then boyfriend and now husband, Don Wilson ’05, played football, so that was an added incentive to continue her role as the mascot. “Anytime someone would ask where his girlfriend was during the game he would joke and say, ‘She’s the one with the beard’,” Wilson laughed. She continued her incognito work as Derrick for another year before graduating in 2002.

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A UF Idol Today, Derrick the Oiler is a campus icon and a coveted fixture at events. He even joined the 2009 Oilers men’s basketball team in the national spotlight when they won the NCAA Division II championship game and ended the season undefeated.

As a spirit leader and goodwill ambassador for the University, his popularity now extends well beyond sporting events and even campus. Derrick has cheered runners on at Findlay’s Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5k, encouraged philanthropy at the Helping Hands Food Drive to support CHOPIN Hall, competed against other area mascots at Mascot Mania at Huntington Arena in Toledo, Ohio, and even made his way to Cleveland, Ohio to cheer with the Browns’ mascots, Chomps and Brownie, during UF Day at FirstEnergy Field.

Charlie Webb, assistant director of enrollment marketing and mascot coordinator, hires and manages the students who play Derrick and serve as his spotters. Each year, he manages three to four Findlay students to don the suit and serve as a spotter. These high-profile positions call for students between 5-foot-6 and 6-foot-1 who are enthusiastic, responsible, creative and able to think on size 21 feet.

“I’ve tried to provide Derrick with a bigger stage and increase his footprint on our campus and community. The students are the lifeblood of the mascot. They are the true entertainers,” said Webb.

While many students have played the part of Derrick the Oiler over the past 16 years, no one has played the part longer than graduate student, Cole Ryan. “Derrick’s persona was my persona for the past six years,” said Ryan. “I wanted to be a part of something I thought was pretty special at Findlay. I played multiple sports in high school but didn’t think I could handle a sport in college, so I decided to try being the mascot.

That way I could still be around sports and have fun with the fans,” he added. Fun might be a bit of an understatement

for some fans. His trademark backflips in costume, both standing and from elevated levels, brought excited fans to their feet.

During his senior year, Ryan was revealed as the dynamic Derrick known for acrobatic antics at the last basketball game of the season in 2015, which also happened to be senior night. “The standing ovation I received during my reveal was validation that it was all worth it. It was definitely one of the most memorable moments,” Ryan said.

Brandi Laurita, athletic director at Findlay, said Ryan “has set the bar high” for future students who play Derrick. “He has brought such life to the mascot and really enhanced the atmosphere at athletic events.” Over the last two years, Ryan continued to play Derrick sporadically. His last event as Derrick was the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5k this past September.

The Future of Findlay’s Favorite Oiler Derrick is arguably the University’s most beloved “student.” As we’ve found out, it’s not easy being the mascot. He must go to classes too, after all. But the adoration is a bonus.

“The growth and popularity of the mascot has been fantastic! Looking forward, I’d love to create a scholarship for students who play Derrick. I also get questions about adding a female mascot companion. Who knows what might happen,” said Webb.

The future of Findlay’s favorite Oiler is promising. And although Findlay’s mascot has evolved throughout the years, one thing remains the same: his unwavering and animated ability to bring smiles, cheers and spirit to any Oiler event.

Share Your Mascot Memories Do you have a mascot memory you'd like to share? We would enjoy hearing from you! Send an email to UFinfo@findlay.edu and a follow-up may appear in a future issue of the FindlayMag.

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Donor Impact Your Giving Broke Records This fall has been a special time characterized by new experiences and observing traditions, all made possible by your generosity. The new Center for Student Life and College of Business, which opened in August to serve our campus and community in collaborative and innovative ways, has had the most private funds raised of any building project in UF’s history – nearly $10 million thus far. Amounts from over 410 individuals and organizations that ranged from $10 to millions (and still counting) made this landmark achievement possible.

The impressive impact of private philanthropy is always evident from the moment that visitors, especially students, approach the new building. Lush landscaping, inviting walkways and comfortable gathering spots include specific donor recognitions, as do several interior building spaces, the latter of which were strategically designed to incorporate and support the latest business and learning innovations and standards. If you have yet to pay a visit to our striking Center for Student Life and College of Business, please do so to find out why so many are taking great pride in it, and to experience how it has altered campus dynamics.

In keeping with our physical expansion and to honor our past, this year’s Homecoming and Family Weekend theme was “Building Upon Traditions,” which celebrated the University’s founding and provided opportunities for alumni to reconnect. Activities for the classes of 1967, 1977 and 1997 were enjoyed on and off campus.

You’ll also notice in the Annual Report the remarkable amount of giving during Fiscal Year 2016-2017, separate from the new building campaign. A record number of donors gave to scholarship endowments and operating funds that support our students’ educational endeavors and needs, which range from tuition assistance to campus structural priorities. Estate commitments for future academic needs were particularly numerous.

With your continuing support and enthusiasm, we’re looking forward to advancing the supportive momentum that remains so vital to the success of our students and those they’ll be serving.

In gratitude,

Marcia Sloan Latta, Ed.D. Vice President for University Advancement

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Your Support Matters Your gift to the University of Findlay— no matter the amount— supports an education that leads students to meaningful lives and productive careers.

Contact us at 419-434-5856 or give online and make a difference to students today!

Give online at

give.findlay.edu

Donor Impact

In the Right Direction: Alumnus Boosts Next Generation of Educators Before he came to Findlay College in 1966, Jerry Smith ’69 started his education at a larger institution where every class was in an auditorium with too many students. When he transferred to Findlay he found the smaller classes and direct interaction with professors to be a far better fit for him, and his experiences led him in a direction he hadn’t anticipated as a business major.

“The camaraderie on campus really made a difference to me. The smaller classes allowed me to get to know everyone and have more individual attention from professors,” said Smith. He added that he really appreciated the opportunity to learn from people in the community who brought real-world experience into the classroom, including a marketing manager from Marathon Petroleum Corporation and a lawyer who taught business law. “They incorporated their own experiences from the field and offered unique insights to students,” he said.

As a business major with a couple classes in education and communication, after graduating from Findlay College in 1969, he was recommended for a position in accounting instruction at a Northwest Ohio technology school and quickly fell in love with education. He continued to work as a teacher and administrator for vocational schools throughout his career before retiring to North Carolina with his wife, Debra.

“I enjoyed making a difference to students, knowing that I was helping send their career and lives in different directions,” said Smith. His goal is to continue to impact students moving forward. When he and his wife set up their estate plan, they knew they wanted to make a difference in education. By establishing the Jerry L. Smith Scholarship at Findlay, they created an endowment that will support education students.

“Teachers have a lasting impact on the future, and by helping students receive the best education and field experience at the University of Findlay, Jerry Smith has created a huge ripple effect,” said Julie McIntosh, Ed.D., dean of the College of Education. “His support will serve Findlay students with the greatest need and those future teachers will have an impact on K-12 students for many years to come.”

While a significant portion of the gift will be contributed to the University after his lifetime, Smith also made arrangements to allow the scholarship to begin supporting students this fall.

“Findlay provided me with a great background that allowed me to have a successful and enjoyable career in education,” he said. “I want to help future teachers. Supporting students financially makes a difference as to the direction they can take in their career. It breaks down the barrier and allows students to have less of a financial burden in addition to learning and academic commitments. I want them to have the chance to be successful and enjoy teaching as much as I have.”

First Founders’ Day of Giving A Success

In recognition of the University of Findlay’s 135th anniversary, the inaugural Founders’ Day of Giving was held on Sept. 7, and was deemed a success. A total of 181 donor gifts that amounted to $28,698 were gratefully accepted on that single day.

The effort was made to raise funds for current and future Oilers, and is expected to become an annual event.

It reinforced the University founders’ dedicated support, collaborative vision and commitment to helping individuals lead meaningful lives and have productive careers.

Primarily a virtual day of giving drive, participants were encouraged to visit a website to donate that day.

Collection boxes were also available at Founders’ Day of Giving partner businesses, including Trends! On Main, East of Chicago Pizza, Sink’s Flower Shop and Greenhouse, Lawless Barbershop, QQ Gardens, Bread Kneads and The Lunch Box powered

by Bread Kneads, George House Coffee & Tea Co., We. Serve. Coffee, and Shoe Sensation.

Additionally, past Founders’ Award recipients from several states gathered that evening at a celebration held at the Carrothers Home of the President.

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Giving Back to the Future: Ostranders’ Legacy Giving Includes UF Learners

Chris and Dina Ostrander’s philanthropic spirit was strengthened when they were stationed at a U.S. Army base in Germany. As newlyweds with no family nearby, and years of life experience still ahead of them, they were required to assume leadership roles that indelibly shaped them, they said. Chris was an officer fresh out of West Point, supervising 35 people in his company, while Dina served as one of the lifelines for other military spouses. It was a situation that laid the foundation for their signature giving philosophy that heavily focuses on youth and community.

Their recent bequest to the University of Findlay further exemplifies those fiscal values. It also sustains their alignment with the institution’s own supportive mission to assist students, and reinforces UF’s standing as a vital economic and social

28 | Fall 2017

contributor to the region via its students, alumni, faculty and staff.

The donation places the Ostranders within the University’s C.T. Fox Legacy Society, which recognizes those who have shared their intentions to remember the University through a planned gift.

The couple has also been financially supportive of the Center for Student Life and College of Business, where a room now bears their family’s name.

“The University of Findlay’s mission, which is to equip students for meaningful lives and productive careers, aligns very well with our faith and values, which are centered on the education, health and welfare, and financial stability of youths in our community,” said Chris, who is CEO and Advisory Board Chairman for the Family Office of Gardner & Sons.

Donor Impact

University of Findlay students are also community contributors in their own right, the couple noted.

“The University has provided me with interns over the last couple years, and they’ve done a phenomenal job. I was really impressed,” Chris said. Their passion for helping others is evident, their desire to be innovative is compelling and their work ethic is sound, he maintained.

The Ostranders mentioned they have also seen multiple UF alumni become just as committed as they are to setting an example of service by remaining within the region to work, live, and give back to the community. Chris said he believes the University’s new Center for Student Life and College of Business will provide an enhanced career-focused atmosphere that will teach the professional skill sets needed to staff area businesses.

“We are fortunate to have a lot of terrific companies in Hancock County, but it can be difficult to recruit great talent from outside of this area given our geographic challenges.

I think UF’s College of Business is going to be a huge enhancement that will enable us to home-grow some of the talent we need to develop the companies and the economy here in Findlay,” said Chris.

Neither Chris nor Dina are UF alumni, but they are no strangers to it. Chris is the vice chair of the University of Findlay Board of Trustees and is the co-chair of the Advancement Committee, the chair of the Audit Committee, a member of the Athletic Committee, and a member of the Executive Committee. Additionally, he has served on UF business advisory groups, and has been a large proponent of experiential learning endeavors such as the Browns Edge Partnership, which is a hybrid scholastic and professional partnership with the Cleveland Browns that offers internships, campus panel discussions on employment, and other opportunities.

“As the University was evaluating the Browns Edge program, we noted no other universities like ours have this type of program to offer. What a great way to differentiate UF,” Chris said.

Dina said she and Chris regularly attend events on campus, such as basketball and football games, and interact with University leaders.

Dina’s upcoming community service will include government representation – she ran unopposed in the November general election for Findlay City Council’s 3rd ward seat and will take office in January 2018.

The Ostranders, who have also served for two years as cochairs of United Way of Hancock County, said their bequest to UF is an important financial planning objective for them, and one that proudly incorporates their legacy goals when it comes to their three children’s continuing participation.

“When Chris and I were considering making this bequest, we wanted our kids to be a part of this decision so they understood the value of supporting organizations that are aligned with our giving philosophy,” Dina explained. “We’ve educated our kids on our estate planning and they respect and support our decision to back an institution we are passionate about and that supports this community.”

The University of Findlay is one of the key entities that sustains and contributes to the growth of what the Ostranders consider to be a “self-contained” community of compassionate residents and successful economic undertakings.

“This community stands up for itself,” Dina observed.

“Chris and I see so many people in Findlay participate in the many organizations here designed to help its residents. It’s truly amazing. We should all be proud to live and work in a community like this.”

Dina and Chris are Findlay transplants, having moved to Flag City seven years ago, but they say that living here has been a blessing.

“We’ve progressed from just working in the community to getting deeply involved with many aspects of Findlay,” Chris said. “Whether it be the University, the catalytic plan for downtown development, the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, the YMCA, Blanchard Valley Health System, the United Way, or the other organizations we’ve been fortunate enough to support, giving back has become a core value that evolved over time.”

The Ostranders involvement in Findlay has taken it to a completely different level, far from their days in Germany, but in keeping with the same spirit of giving.

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On Campus Tylermade: Tuition Threads Sells Clothing for a Cause

Tyler Adkins, a University of Findlay sophomore, has launched Tuition Threads, a business that also provides money for scholarships. His inspiration came from seeing friends from his southern Ohio hometown of Mount Orab struggle to afford tuition.

“I come from a small town where the financial freedom is not necessarily prevalent. I saw that problem with a lot of my friends,” said Adkins. “I did some digging and it turns out, one statistic out there says that one out of every eight college students nationwide, on average, drops out for financial reasons at some point throughout their college career. So I thought, ‘Wow. What can I do?’”

The 20-year-old decided to combine his knowledge of screen printing, which he acquired from his mom who owns a business that meets that demand, with his passions for marketing and helping others, to come up with a plan that assists students with college costs.

Launched in January, Tuition Threads contracts with colleges and universities to add school logos to apparel. A portion of the income made is donated back to the universities to fund scholarships, which are awarded to students based on criteria determined by each university.

The University of Findlay is now a client.

Businesses that use a portion of their profits to give back in targeted, meaningful ways is a growing trend, said Adkins.

“It’s kind of a new thing that we’re seeing a lot of businesses come out with, and it’s called social entrepreneurship,” he explained.

The venture has “completely changed my life at this point,” Adkins said. He has changed his major from marketing to a tailored one that focuses on entrepreneurship, and is hoping to keep expanding Tuition Threads throughout his academic career and after he graduates.

“I’m excited about the (business) idea,” Adkins added. “I’ve gotten a lot of great feedback for it, and so I hope it's one of those things that really just catches like wildfire, and enables us to make more impact at more universities.”

30 | Fall 2017

On Campus

UF’s Christian Heritage Encourages Integration of Theology, Service and Career-Focused Learning “Who am I?” “What is truly worth caring about?”

Through faith-based values and initiatives, the University of Findlay is not only helping students to pursue careers, but to seek their own answers to some of these larger questions. A recent grant award, additional student learning opportunities and community events are assisting with these efforts.

A job isn’t simply about earning money. That’s why the concept of identifying a “calling,” with students choosing service-oriented careers, has been a focus at UF from the beginning, thanks to its founding by the Churches of God, General Conference (formerly the Churches of God in North America). A $32,000 grant to enhance vocational learning will focus on spiritual influence pertaining to careers.

The grant was offered by the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE), which is administered by the Council of Independent Colleges with generous support from the Lilly Endowment Inc. and members’ dues.

With the funding, the Religious Studies and Philosophy Department at UF will spearhead a project titled “Meaningful Lives and Productive Careers: Thinking Theologically About Life and Work.”

The department already provides introductory courses that follow this framework. It hopes to incorporate such vocational consideration and guidance cross-departmentally and in offices such as those that help with career planning.

“We’re hoping that by learning to set goals and envision a career that is meaningful, students will find value in their future endeavors,” said grants manager Tricia Valasek.

University students aren’t the only beneficiaries of these

endeavors. In July 2017, UF’s second annual theology camp for high school students, called The Well, was offered. The free, weeklong residential institute also sought to inform participants regarding how their career goals intersect with their faith-based interests and lives. The camp was made possible through grant money from the Lilly Endowment Inc.’s High School Youth Theology Institutes initiative. The Well will be offered again in summer 2018.

On Thursday, Oct. 5, following the worst mass shooting in U.S. history, the campus and larger community united for UF’s 7th annual Campus Day of Prayer. Sponsored

by Campus Ministries and held in front of Old Main, participants prayed and silently contemplated in their own ways. Individuals were scheduled to pray throughout the entire event, which was held from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. that day.

Campus Day of Prayer has typically been observed by students, faculty and staff. This time, the public was invited to take part in quiet, healing reflection.

Also, in keeping with the Christian tenets of inclusivity, UF has provided opportunities to learn about other faiths.

For instance, this fall’s Religious Studies and Lecture Series provided talks on Hinduism, Judaism and Mormonism; and the University in fall 2016 hosted a panel discussion about Islam to address misunderstandings and confusion about that faith.

Stay tuned for more University of Findlay theological and vocational offerings that will embrace both traditional Christian values and serve to educate about other faiths.

FindlayMag | 31

Something to Talk About The University of Findlay this fall semester hosted several compelling speakers who offered interesting insight and inspired further inquiry into the topics they addressed.

Subjects ranged from career search guidance to historic images of Christ. Some of the presenters included: Elizabeth Smart Abducted from her home at age 14 and held captive for nine months, Smart’s story gained attention worldwide. Today, as an in-demand speaker and founder of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, she is the epitome of resilience and advocacy.

Her free, public discussion was titled “Overcoming Adversity: The Elizabeth Smart Story.” She also spoke later that evening at the Mazza Museum for a private fundraiser that benefited Findlay’s Center for Safe and Healthy Children.

Corinne Hoisington During two campus talks, including a free public presentation and as a Fridays at Findlay executive speaker series guest, this digital technology expert, college instructor and textbook author showcased innovations that are changing the ways we live. She also contended that every college student, no matter their major, should take courses in math, data analytics and social media marketing.

Ernesto Nieto The founder of the National Hispanic Institute spoke on Oct. 3 about “Community Social Entrepreneurship: A New Social Concept for Leadership in the Latino Community.” The nonprofit

Ernesto Nieto

Elizabeth Smart

Corinne Hoisington

32 | Fall 2017

Frank Campagna

Brenan Kiely and Jessie Chaffee

Adam Levine

On Campus

Institute has worked with more than 120 higher education institutions and served more than 100,000 youth from across the nation and from Latin America. It seeks to develop future Latino leaders by identifying impoverished children whom it thinks show potential, and assists them with enrolling in college. Nieto served as a Woodrow Wilson Visiting Fellow.

Past Meets Present: ‘Winnie-the-Pooh’ Tales Inspired by Actual Forest

Brenan Kiely and Jessie Chaffee For UF’s Visiting Writers Series, the authors conducted readings and spoke to attendees during their Oct. 2 campus visit in Ritz Auditorium. Kiely is The New York Times bestselling author of young adult works “All American Boys” (with Jason Reynolds), “The Last True Love Story” and “The Gospel of Winter.” Chaffee’s debut novel, “Florence in Ecstasy,” is an acclaimed work published in May 2017.

Frank Campagna Also known as “Autism Daddy,” Campagna spoke on Oct. 11 at the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts regarding his experiences raising an autistic child. Titled “Things No One Ever Told Me After My Son was Diagnosed with Autism,” his presentation offered practical tips and plenty of humor.

Campagna has also worked for "Sesame Street" for the past 22 years, and collaborated on its recent autism awareness initiative. The event was co-sponsored by Gliding Stars of Findlay and UF’s Department of Physical Therapy.

Adam Levine The Toledo Museum of Art’s associate director and curator of ancient art spoke about “Christ’s Earliest Images: Understanding Imagery and Interpretation in a Time of Change.” He showed examples to support his contentions about image interpretation and societal interaction. His talk was part of this academic year’s DeBow and Catherine Freed Contemporary Christian Lecture Series.

Fridays at Findlay

An executive speaker series presented by the University of Findlay. www.findlay.edu/fridaysatfindlay

Remember reading about Winnie-the-Pooh, Tigger and friends in the Hundred Acre Wood? As it turns out, an actual place in England inspired A.A. Milne’s beloved tales! Two public talks in October, hosted by the University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum, were offered by Kathryn Aalto, author of the New York Times bestselling nonfiction book, “The Natural World of Winnie-the-Pooh.”

Crafted for adults, Aalto’s lectures on the Ashdown Forest relayed the backstory of Milne’s classic books and offered ways for participants to rethink the changing nature of childhood. Interesting facts about the woods’ rare flora and fauna were interwoven with concepts about the intersection of nature and culture.

Ashdown Forest is one of the largest free public access spaces in England’s southeast Sussex County.

Attendees of the Oct. 12 noon presentation were encouraged to bring their own lunch, while the evening event featured honey-themed hors d’oevres and wine.

Aalto, a landscape historian and designer, also spoke to younger readers of UF’s Clubhouse Reading Center, and to college students during private presentations.

Sponsored by First Federal Bank.

FindlayMag | 33

Alumni Events

34 | Fall 2017

FindlayMag | 35

Upcoming Events for Alumni, Parents & Friends

Date

Event

Jan. 27

Athletic Hall of Fame Winebrenner Theological Seminary

Feb. 10

Lunch & Broadway Show: Something Rotten!

Avenue Grill & The National Theatre, Washington D.C.

Feb. 11

Tampa Alumni Reception Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, Tampa, FL

Feb. 12

Winter College Naples, FL

Feb. 13

Bradenton Alumni Reception IMG Academy Golf Club, Bradenton, FL

Feb. 14

Columbus College of Education Alumni & Friends Reception Barleys Underground, Columbus, OH

Feb. 24

Pre-Vet Reception Barleys Underground, Columbus, OH

March 23

Fridays at Findlay

Visit www.findlay.edu/homecoming to see more photos and read about this year’s Distinguished Alumni Awards.

Sponsored by First Federal Bank

March 23

OHSAA Boy’s Basketball Brunch OSU Fawcett Center Columbus, OH

May 19

Brewery Tour and Tasting Auburn Hills, MI

Alumni gather at the Columbus Clippers game and reception in August.

Reconnect With UF The Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents and Friends would like the opportunity to greet you at one of our upcoming events in your area. Check out a full list of events online at www.findlay.edu/events.

36 | Fall 2017

For more information about these events or to register, visit www.findlay.edu/events.

Class Notes Career Updates Shirley “Sally” (Hall) Jennifer (Slattery) Kille ‘55, of Sylvania, Ohio, Birkemeier ‘93, CPA, who earned a bachelor’s of Wapakoneta, Ohio, degree in education, became a partner in E.S. retired after 25 years as Evans and Company in a teacher at Springfield Lima, Ohio. She has been Local Schools, Sylvania, with the firm since 1993, Ohio. She now volunteers providing tax preparation and sings in her church’s and planning services to choir, and would love a variety of clients and to hear from former specializing in nonprofit roommates of Fernbaugh clients. She also is a Dormitory, particularly Certified Fraud Examiner Laurna May Kimmel, and member of the Ohio Delores Shirk, Erma Lingle Society of Certified Public and Mrs. Neff.

Accountants, Association of Government Michael Wueller ’78 Accountants and retired as an ESL/ELL Association of Certified teacher from Knox County Fraud Examiners. She Schools in Knoxville, earned her bachelor’s Tennessee. She taught degree in accounting/ in Tennessee for 20 years finance. and in Florida for seven years. Wueller, who lives in Kelly (Zink) Ernst ’03 was Knoxville, plans to travel, named plant accountant and volunteer in elementary for WHEMCO – Ohio classrooms and with her Foundry, Inc. in Lima, Ohio. therapy dog through the She earned a bachelor’s Human Animal Bond in degree in business Tennessee program. administration and now resides in Cridersville, Derek Hutchinson ‘87 of Ohio.

Paeonian Springs, Virginia, was named senior vice Kelly Kontur ’10 president for federal became the owner of practice at Kforce Inc. He is Summit Animal Hospital responsible for helping the in Northfield, Ohio. She company grow nationally, began there as associate and has been the No. veterinarian in 2014 after 1 client development earning her Doctor of executive at the company Veterinary Medicine. The for nine of the past 11 Hudson, Ohio resident years. Hutchinson earned earned a bachelor’s in his bachelor’s degree in pre-veterinary science business. from UF.

Brennan Williams ’11 was named camp coordinator for player development for the Columbus Crew Soccer Club in Columbus, Ohio. She earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing, and now lives in Columbus.

Elizabeth Larson ’13, M’17 of Findlay, Ohio, was named global security operations manager for Allied Universal/Marathon Petroleum Corporation.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and her MBA from UF. Kelsey Wright ‘14 of Carey, Ohio, is a grain marketer and marketing coordinator for Legacy Farmers Cooperative in Findlay, Ohio. She earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science.

Share your News! www.findlay.edu/ ShareYourNews

Prestyn Eberlyn ‘15 who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in theatre and political science, was named the program officer for the Ohio Hispanic Coalition in Columbus, Ohio. He lives in Fairborn, Ohio.

FindlayMag | 37

Marriages Marian Lowe ’97, who earned a bachelor’s degree in preveterinary medicine, and Ashley Wise were married on June 24, 2017. They reside in Atlanta, Georgia.

Kimberly Butterworth ’00 married Jeremy Quiring on May 24, 2014.

Kimberly earned her bachelor’s degree from the Physician Assistant Program. They reside in Piney Flats, Tennessee.

Michelle Cole M’05 married Jeremy Cole on Aug. 6, 2016.

Michelle earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. They reside in Findlay, Ohio.

Jay Sutherland, ’07 and Caryn Cole ’06 were married on Oct. 1, 2016. They reside in Findlay, Ohio.

Emily Geiser ’08, M’11 and Steven Studer were married on May 27, 2017. Emily earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting and an MBA. They reside in North Baltimore, Ohio.

Dustin Brown ’09, M’11 and Emily Curtis ’13 were married on April 8, 2017. Dustin earned a bachelor’s degree in business management and an MBA. Emily earned a bachelor’s degree in human resources. They reside in Bowling Green, Ohio.

Elizabeth De Luca-Kontchou ’12 married Gildas Kontchou Kambou on Aug. 11, 2017.

Elizabeth earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish. They reside in Columbus, Ohio.

38 | Fall 2017

Gabrielle (Stokes) Sasse ’13 and Kevin Sasse ’10 were married on Sept. 2, 2017. Gabrielle earned a bachelor’s degree in western equestrian studies and equine business management, and Kevin a bachelor’s degree in accounting. They reside in Beaverton, Oregon.

Melissa (Albright) Flanders, Pharm.D. ’13 married Michael Flanders on May 27, 2017. They reside in Sylvania, Ohio.

Brett Love ’14 and Kaylene Slayton ’14 were married on April 23, 2017. Brett earned a bachelor’s degree in adolescent and young adult social studies education, and Kaylene earned a bachelor’s degree in English general writing. They reside in Bucyrus, Ohio.

Nicole Lahey ’15 married Austin Gerten on July 23, 2016.

Nicole earned a bachelor’s degree in business management.

They reside in Ottawa, Ohio.

Robert Braylock, Pharm.D. ’16 married Jasmine Braylock on Nov. 26, 2016. Robert also earned his bachelor of science in health studies. They reside in Findlay, Ohio.

Brittany Topolnak, Pharm.D. ’16 and Aaron Schragl were married on Nov. 4, 2017. They reside in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania.

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Nick Thompson Homecoming Weekend

Births/Adoptions Kimberly (Butterworth) Quiring ’00 and Jeremy Quiring celebrated the birth of their son, Eric Marcus Quiring, on June 24, 2016. Kimberly earned a bachelor’s degree from the Physician Assistant Program. The family resides in Johnson City, Tennessee.

Stephen Clark ’04 and Emily (Loy) Clark ’05 celebrated the birth of their daughter, Natalie Jo Clark, on May 22, 2017.

Natalie is welcomed by big brothers Nicholas, Christopher and Andrew.

Stephen earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance, and Emily earned a bachelor’s degree in AYA mathematics. The family resides in Jenera, Ohio.

Cody Davis ’05 and Meeghan Davis announce the birth of their daughter, Emersyn Grace Davis, on March 7, 2017. Cody earned a bachelor’s degree in business management and business administration.

The family resides in Temperance, Michigan.

Heidi Mercer’ 06 and Jasmin Bradley celebrated the birth of their son, Abraham Bisdee MercerBradley, on May 23, 2016.

Heidi earned a bachelor’s degree in social work. The family resides in Findlay, Ohio.

40 | Fall 2017

Nicholas Toland '06 and Sarah Toland welcomed the birth of their daughter, Isla Rae Toland, on April 27, 2017. Nicholas earned a bachelor’s degree in theatre production and design technology. The family resides in Wharton, Ohio.

Monica (Caplinger) Divine ’08 and Daniel Divine welcomed the birth of their daughter, Charlotte Ann Divine, on May 17, 2017. Charlotte joins big brother Cameron. Monica earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. The family resides in Cocoa, Florida.

Lucas Gross ’08, and Sheane (Ice) Gross ’09 announce the birth of their son, Spencer James Gross, on June 6, 2017.

Lucas earned a bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine, and Sheane a bachelor’s degree in education. The family resides in Findlay, Ohio.

Jamie (Thomson) Thomas ’08 and Brian Thomas welcomed the birth of their daughter, Landen Mills Thomas, on Dec. 27, 2016. Jamie graduated with a bachelor’s degree in prelaw and philosophy. The family resides in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Davis Osmun ’09 and Marisha Osmun on May 31, 2017 celebrated the adoption of their son, Samuel David Osmun, who was born Feb. 27, 2016. Davis earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental safety and occupational health. The family resides in McKinney, Texas.

Cameron Stevens ’11 and Ginny Stevens announce the birth of their son, Clayton Cobb Stevens, on Sept. 1, 2017. Cameron earned a bachelor’s degree in digital media.

The family resides in Oviedo, Florida.

Taylor (Sowers) Barton ’13 and Jordan Barton celebrated the birth of their daughter, Emory Lynn Barton, on Jan. 9, 2017. Taylor earned a bachelor’s degree in education and Spanish.

The family resides in Findlay, Ohio.

Kassey (Wene) Fry ’13 and Travis Fry celebrated the birth of their son, Toby Jackson Fry, on June 15, 2017. Kassey earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science and equine business management.

The family resides in Corunna, Indiana.

Amanda Colliver ’14 and Travis Colliver welcomed the birth of their son, Wyatt Edward Colliver, on Aug. 19, 2017. Amanda

earned a bachelor’s degree in social work. The family resides in Galloway Ohio.

Nicole (Lahey) Gerten ’15 and Austin Gerten welcomed the birth of their son, Xavier James Gerten, on April 20, 2017.

Nicole earned a bachelor’s degree in business management. The family resides in Ottawa, Ohio.

Jacob Miller ’16 and Hannah Miller celebrated the birth of their son, Elijah John Miller, on July 25, 2017. Jacob earned a bachelor’s degree public relations. The family resides in Akron, Ohio.

Scott Stevens, DPT ’16, and Paige Stevens ’15 welcomed the birth of their daughter, Willow Paige Stevens, on Jan. 6, 2017. Page earned a bachelor’s degree in middle childhood education. The family resides in Circleville, Ohio.

Jay Sutherland, MBA student, and Caryn (Cole) Sutherland welcomed the birth of their daughter, Hannah Ellen Sutherland, on Aug. 8, 2017. The family resides in Findlay.

Class notes for this issue were received by Sept. 29, 2017.

Class Notes

FindlayMag | 41

In Memory 1930s

2000s

Luella Lewis ‘38 May 9, 2017

Shauna Shepler ‘05 July 27, 2017

1950s

Friends

Nancy Harden ‘55 June 16, 2017

Jane Brunot April 29, 2017

Robert Bumgarner ‘56 June 1, 2017

Barbara (Bowman) Grimm Aug. 21, 2017

Charles Wood ‘59 May 27, 2017

Patricia M. (Poholsky) Gunnett June 11, 2017

1960s

Dane Harper July 2, 2017

Harold Edens ‘61 May 13, 2017

1970s Janice Kovacs ‘72 May 13, 2017 Anthony Testa ‘72 May 13, 2017

1980s Donald Henninger ‘80 July 6, 2017

1990s Martin Simon ‘94 May 1, 2017 Gregory Kelmeckis ‘97 July 3, 2017

42 | Fall 2017

George Kinnison June 10, 2017 Rose Mary (Kiene) Latta Aug. 23, 2017 Carroll Scarbrough Aug. 12, 2017 Jerry Scheaffer Aug. 12, 2017

Feb. 12, 2017 Pelican Yacht Club, Naples, Florida The University of Findlay’s fifth annual Winter College will feature:

The Entrepreneurial Journey Terry Terhark, Founder and CEO, randrr, LLC

The Secret of Imagination Daniel Chudzinski, Curator, Mazza Museum

Former Students Cletus Sweigard (*attended 1939-40) July 3, 2017 Raymond Walandzak (*attended 1960-61) June 7, 2017 Deborah Wallace (*attended 1970-71) Aug. 28, 2017

Opioids - Roots of the Epidemic and Grassroots Efforts to Combat It Debra Parker, Pharm. D., Dean of the College of Pharmacy Emily Pfahler, fifth-year pharmacy student For more information and to register, visit www.findlay.edu/events or call The Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents and Friends at 419-434-4516.

Class Notes

The following passages were shared with the University of Findlay for publication Dale Adams ’57 died on Aug. 15, 2017 at age 88 in Zephyrhills, Florida. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Findlay College and master’s and specialist degrees from Bowling Green State University. He then shared ownership of the Bradner (Ohio) Marathon Station with his brother, Herbert, before starting his education career. Adams taught math and history at Bradner Local Schools, was the principal of Bradner Elementary School and retired as superintendent of the Pike-DeltaYork school district. He is survived by his son, daughter, daughter-in-law, five grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.

Keith Beck ’88 died on March 28, 2017 at the age of 59 after a lengthy battle with liver cancer. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in health education and athletic training with a specialization in sociology from the University of Findlay and earned his Master of Education in physical education from the University of Toledo. He became a member of the University’s staff in 1991.

He served as an assistant athletic trainer before he became the director of the strength and conditioning program in 1999. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lisa. He is survived by his girlfriend, Jackie Ernst, sons Kenneth and Daniel, and two grandchildren. He resided in Bloomdale, Ohio. This note corrects the one printed in the Summer issue.

Mary (Stringfellow) Brucklacker ’82 died on Aug. 11, 2010 in Findlay. She had entered the University of Findlay as a part-time student to complete the college education she had started three decades earlier at Miami University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English.

She and her husband, James, were also members of the C.T. Fox Legacy Society, which recognizes donors who have shared their intentions to remember the University through a planned gift.

Brucklacker is survived by one daughter, two grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren.

James “Jim” Morgan Burton Jr. ’72, who earned a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering from the University of Findlay, died Aug. 25, 2017 in Lafayette, Louisiana after a brave battle with cancer. He was the owner of Source Environmental Services, Inc. for 25 years. A proud veteran, Burton served in the U.S. Army from 1968 until 1971 and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. He is survived by his beloved wife of 24 years, Linda, two daughters, one stepdaughter, one sister, and five grandchildren.

David Donald Fleming ’73 died June 13, 2017 in Findlay, Ohio. He received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Findlay College and worked and owned Ohio Pipe Company. Fleming was a member of several community organizations, such as the Findlay Rotary Club and Boy Scouts of America. He had served as the Salvation Army board president and was a charter member of the “Red Coats Ambassadors” of the FindlayHancock County Chamber of Commerce.

He was also a member of the National Ventriloquist Association. He is survived by his wife, Mary, two daughters, three grandchildren and a brother.

Emma (Fairbanks) Gray ’66 died in Findlay on July 31, 2017. She had served on the Findlay College Alumnae Board and established the Emma May Gray ’66 Scholarship. She had also served two terms on the Findlay YMCA board and on its Building Committee. At the YMCA, she taught women and girls fitness in various capacities. Some of her other community activities included membership and Sunday school instruction at Saint Andrew’s United Methodist Church, and Town and Campus, where she served as president.

She is survived by her daughter-in-law, her sister-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Shiv Kumar Gupta, D.B.A., professor emeritus of economics and marketing,

died on Nov. 4, 2017. He was a beloved member of the University of Findlay community for more than 45 years. During that time, he had transformational impact upon the lives of countless students and colleagues he worked alongside. He was foundational to developing the College of Business and many of its programs including marketing, finance and the Master of Business Administration program. He was also the campus founder and advisor of UF’s former award-winning Students In Free Enterprise team. Dr. Gupta and his family gave generously as well by establishing multiple endowment funds and contributing in many other ways. Dr. Gupta inspired the creation of the University’s annual Professor Shiv Gupta Award for Excellence in Teaching.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth (Heather). Surviving him are six children, 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

James Richard “Rick” Henson ’97 died Aug. 27, 2017 in Findlay, Ohio surrounded by his loving family. He earned master’s degrees in education from UF and in family ministry from Winebrenner Theological Seminary in 2005. He had been employed by ADP (formerly The Right Thing), and was previously an adjunct professor at UF and Owens Community College. He had also been an associate pastor at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church in Benton Ridge, Ohio, and was the pastor at Portage Chapel United Methodist Church in McComb, Ohio. Henson is survived by his wife, Nancy, five children, 12 grandchildren, a sister, stepsister, and step-brother.

Christin Kay “Chrissie” Kausrud ’13 died June 5, 2017 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where she worked as an assistant horse trainer. Kausrud earned a bachelor’s degree in equestrian science and finance. She was never happier than when she was riding her horse or spending time with her books, a cup of coffee, and her beloved dog and

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companion, Penny. She is survived by her parents, a brother, many aunts and uncles, cousins, and a step-grandfather.

Beverly Schroeder, 67, died on April 9, 2017 at her Findlay, Ohio residence, surrounded by her family.

As a registered nurse for 43 years, she worked for the University of Findlay, Blanchard Valley Hospital and Cleveland Clinic. At UF, students saw her almost as another mom, her daughter, Tara Schroeder told The Courier for a story about the 2017 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Findlay event that was dedicated to her mother. Schroeder had also volunteered with Challenged Champions, 50 North and Cancer Patient Services. She is survived by her loving husband, Michael, three children, two grandchildren, two sisters and one brother.

Franklin J. Schultz, 82, of North Charleston, South Carolina, died July 4, 2017. He had an illustrious 50-year career in the education field, 30 of which he served traveling abroad and developing international education partnerships as the University of Findlay’s vice president for international and student affairs. After retirement he founded his own consulting firm, Education Solutions International. He truly loved people, his career, and any opportunity to dance. He was known for his ability to make others laugh with his dry, and sometimes dark sense of humor.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Marilyn, two sons, one daughter and eight grandchildren.

Wendene Wilson, Shoupe, 99, of Findlay died April 5, 2017. A gifted pianist, she performed all over the United States, and became a piano teacher while in high school. She opened her Findlay studio in 1952 and continually taught well into her 90s. She performed at numerous University of Findlay events, particularly the Lifelong Learning sessions (formerly called Senior Forum), and in 2005 was selected to be one of UF’s first Wall of Fame honorees.

In 2016 she was one of the inaugural

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inductees of the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts Wall of Fame.

She married Dr. Thomas Richard “TR” Shoupe of Findlay, and he predeceased her in 1995. She is survived by two daughters, eight grandchildren, and many loving nieces and nephews.

Florence Maxine Snyder ’59 died March 24, 2017 in Findlay, Ohio. She graduated from Findlay College with a Bachelor of Science degree. She became a registered nurse through the Nurses Cadet Program at Toledo Hospital School of Nursing, where she graduated in 1947. She was a member of BPW, Zonta, BVH Auxiliary and Saint Andrews United Methodist Church in Findlay where she was a member of the Wesley Sunday School Class and the United Methodist Women. Her first husband, Harold Newhard, was a professor at Findlay College, and preceded her in death in 1968. She married Ancil Snyder in 1978, and he preceded her in death in 2004. She is survived by two daughters, one son, one stepson, 20 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

Dr. Charles H. Spragg Jr., 76, of Findlay, Ohio died peacefully on March 27, 2017 surrounded by his family. The former University of Findlay Board of Trustees member graduated Cum Laude from The Ohio State University Dental School, where he served as class president. He was also a U.S. Army veteran. After leaving the military with the rank of Major in 1969, he began his dental practice in Findlay, where he helped patients for 45 years. He also served on governing boards for organizations ranging from United Way of Hancock County to the Findlay Country Club. Spragg’s welcoming smile and warm hug could make a new acquaintance feel like they had known him a lifetime. “Don’t blink, life goes faster than you think” was his favorite line, and he lived that each day to the fullest.

End Notes Greetings Oiler Nation, It is my distinct pleasure to address you within this venue. I am humbled, honored and very excited at the opportunity to hold the office of president of the University of Findlay’s Alumni Association Board of Governors. I look forward to serving you as your representative and fellow alumnus and fully embrace the gravity and responsibilities of this position that I will approach with a spirit of excellence and faithfulness.

As an elected member of the Alumni Board, I have dedicated my time, effort, and thought over the past few years toward the University's success.

However, this pales in comparison to what our great University has given me in terms of education, values and lifelong friendships that I will forever hold dear to my heart. I watch with tremendous pride as this University continues to grow in size and national recognition due to its great leadership and the considerable contributions of you, our loyal alumni, who reside all across this great land.

My contributions to the Alumni Board have coincided with my service for the past two years as vice-chair of the University of Toledo’s Academic Advising Association, a platform that serves as a conduit for the exchange of information for the delivery of advising and student services. I am proud to say that this association has progressed and contributed to quality advising, student success, and retention.

In my coming years of service to this office, I look forward to celebrating our Findlay pride together. I encourage you to visit www.findlay.edu/alumni for the latest information about upcoming events and opportunities with the Center for Alumni, Parents and Friends. Lastly, I close with a few words from our Alma Mater Fight Song that permeates within me, which are written by Dr. R. Van Nice: “Findlay, our Alma Mater; Our praise we sing to thee; Findlay we here do pledge thee to ever faithful be.”

Alumni Association Board of Governors 2017-18 Officers President DeMya Wimberly ‘94 Vice President Nicole Busey ’99 Past President Kelly (Zink) Ernst ’03 Elected Representatives (3 year terms) Jennia Knestrick ’94 Suzzette Boyd ‘97 Dean Plott ’93 Teresa (McIntosh) Steed ‘92 Tom Jakubiec ‘73 Liz Ditto ’81 Mike Clouse ’96, M‘06 Margaret Wetzler '92 Jennifer (Reinhart) Schoenberger ‘99 Brian Treece ’01, MAE‘02 Preston Eberlyn ‘15 Kathy Myers M’09 Appointed Representatives (2 year terms) Kenny Sprow ‘99 Forrest Miller ‘17 Alissa (Simpson ’01) Preston Student Representatives (2 year appointments) College of Liberal Arts Karissa Belle Payne

Go Oilers!

College of Science Olivia Coppler College of Health Professions Audrey Lea Marshall

DeMya T. Wimberly ’94, President Alumni Association Board of Governors

Reconnect With UF The Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents and Friends would like the opportunity to greet you at an upcoming event in your area. Check out a full list of events online at www.findlay.edu/events.

College of Education Sara Tomko College of Business Tyler Adkins College of Pharmacy Thomas Brown Senior Class President Lauren Ackerman SGA President Rebecka Stricker STAR Representative Katie Koomar

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“Findlay is preparing me for my dream to work for NASA and be the mathematician that puts people into space. There’s so much out there that we haven’t discovered. If I can be behind the numbers at NASA then maybe I can be part of making sure our society never stops trying to discover more.”

Emily Peraza, Mathematics Student

“Without my scholarships, I wouldn’t be able to attend the University of Findlay. My scholarships allow me to be a great athlete on the field and student in the classroom.

The University really is preparing me for my future.”

Justice Jenkins, Finance Major

Your gift to this initiative will provide immediate usable funds to make a University of Findlay education more affordable for students. To make an immediate impact or learn more about the Findlay Forward Scholarship Initiative, visit www.findlay.edu/findlayforward.