Findlay Mag - Summer 2023

Small Gestures… BIG IMPACT

The Scholarships Shaping University of Findlay and Changing Students’ Lives

From the President

One of my favorite things about serving as UF president is listening to students tell their stories. I’m always intrigued to discover what brought them here? What keeps them on campus? What inspires them to study in a certain major or compete in a particular sport?

In this edition of FindlayMag, UF students share their passion for new experiences and their optimism for the careers that lie ahead. These young Oilers reveal how faculty members and new friends are supporting their journeys. They are quick to say “thank you” to the kind-hearted scholarship donors whose generosity is changing lives for generations to come.

At the Graduate Commencement ceremony in May, we heard some excellent advice from the Reverend Dr. Bill Reist, a Board of Trustees member and retired pastor of the College First Church of God on campus. He asked the graduates to pay attention to the difference between a thermometer that merely registers the temperature of a room – and a thermostat that changes the temperature of a room. Dr. Reist challenged them to change the temperature of the room by “taking a generous view of the world” and inspiring hope. I’m proud to say I already see our students forming those attitudes. However, his comments also bring to mind our philanthropic donors who inspire hope with their gifts to UF. We thank them for their loyalty and long-term commitment that provide stability to the University and allow thousands of students every year to make their educational dreams come true.

It’s a joy for me to follow the journeys of our students as they learn and grow and head out to change the temperature of the world. I pray for all the students who enter the Arch, and I’m still praying for them as they walk back through the Arch at graduation.

Onward, Oilers!

Katherine Fell, Ph.D. President

Visiting campus? Please stop by and say “Hi” to the Alumni Office on the second floor of the Winebrenner building. We have UF chocolate bars from Dietsch Brothers to share!

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For additional content, story updates and to submit your class notes, check out our website! mag.findlay.edu

MAG.FINDLAY.EDU

FindlayMag is created, published, and mailed bi-annually by the University of Findlay to alumni, parents, and friends of the University. It is a labor of love for all things Oiler Nation.

President

Katherine Fell, Ph.D.

Interim Vice President for University Advancement

Kenneth McIntyre Jr.

Managing Editor Branden Ferguson

Art Director

Angie Higgins

Contributing Designer Irene Martin

Contributing Writer Josh Eilola

Staff Photographer

Angie Higgins

Contributing Photographer Matthew Lester Photography

Multimedia

Aaron Osborne ’00, M’14

Contact the Editorial Staff

branden.ferguson@findlay.edu

419-434-4345

UF Marketing, 1000 N. Main St., Findlay, OH 45840

For more information about alumni activities and services, contact Kelly Lavelle, director of the Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents and Friends, at 419-434-4008 or email alumni@findlay.edu.

Class of 2023

Around Campus

MAGIC OF MAZZA

University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum partnered with PBS and WBGU to create the documentary “The Magic of Mazza.” The project, nominated for two Emmy awards, features interviews with artists and illustrators, explores the history of Mazza, and celebrates the world’s largest collection of original artwork from picture books.

RANKED NUMBER ONE

BARNES & NOBLE COLLEGE PARTNERSHIP

University of Findlay announced a partnership with Barnes & Noble College at the end of 2022. As part of the agreement, UF is now able to offer Oiler Day One, a new course material delivery program that provides students access to their required course materials.

DERRICK'S HANGOUT

Students now have a new place to spend time with friends, hold meetings, and get away from dayto-day stresses. Derrick’s Hangout, located just inside Koehler, is now open, and features seating, tables, board games, multiple TVs, streaming services, arcades, and gaming systems.

University of Findlay found itself at the top of the list of rankings when the 2021-2022 annual report on College Credit Plus (CCP) came out in January. With 1,796 students participating, UF remained the number one private provider of College Credit Plus in the state of Ohio.

ADDRESSING TITLE IX ISSUES

UF was selected as one of five institutions to collect data on Title IX issues as part of the Taking Bold Action initiative. The project is part of the Ohio Department of High Education’s (ODHE) effort to decrease the amount of sexual misconduct cases on college campuses, in turn improving student success and increasing equity by eliminating those types of risk factors on campus.

3,830 MILES

3,830 MILES FROM CAMPUS

Once strangers, three students shared classrooms, dining halls, and dorm hallways before graduating in May 2022. Emma Holm, Taylor Wenzinger, and Hannah Vangen all graduated with bachelor’s in Animal Science / Pre-Veterinary Medicine Option. After four years in Findlay, the three would soon find out that they would become best friends at veterinary school 3,830 miles away.

CREATING A BUZZ

UF students researched the relationship between bees and the ornamental Callery pear tree. Banned by the state of Ohio as of January 1, 2023, the invasive trees were put on the cutting block. Before removing them from campus, students wanted to make sure the bees were going to survive without the trees.

WARD NAMED

Heather Ward ’15 M'23 was named Vice President of Human Resources in November 2022. Ward has spent more than 15 years in human resources with Whirlpool Corporation; Kalmbach Feeds, Inc.; and DHL Supply Chain. She joined the University of Findlay in March of 2021 as Assistant Director of Human Resources.

LATTA RETIRES

Marcia Sloan Latta, Ed.D, Vice President for University Advancement, retired from the University in May 2023. Latta joined UF in 2013 to provide leadership for fundraising, alumni and parent relations, and the Mazza Museum. During her time, she has led teams that set records for revenue raised, number of endowments created, and number of donors engaged. She leaves the Together We Will campaign more than two-thirds complete of its recordsetting $75 million goal.

Small Gestures… BIG IMPACT

The Scholarships Shaping University of Findlay and Changing Students’ Lives

The small gestures made by University of Findlay’s alumni and friends continue to make big impacts. Last year we celebrated 140 years of excellence, and this year we take a look at why UF has been able to be so successful over the years. Alumni and friends have donated to make the University what it is today, and students are able to call UF home as a result.

JEREMIAH JACKSON

Radio DJ, Football Player, and Scholarship Recipient

BY BRANDEN FERGUSON

“Being away from home for the first time, I really wanted to come to a school that made me feel really comfortable and felt like home, and that’s what the University of Findlay provided for me,” said University of Findlay senior Jeremiah Jackson. “The people here are amazing. The students, my professors, and my coaches have really been helping me to maximize myself not only in the classroom and on the field, but as a man and in my career.”

Jeremiah found his home away from home at UF, where he plans to graduate with his degree in business management before returning in fall 2023 to pursue his master’s in communication. Helping to make his experience possible are scholarships both on and off the football field. “I would not have been able to join the University of Findlay without these scholarships because as everyone knows, college is very expensive and everyone has different backgrounds that they come from where everyone isn’t financially able to pay for schooling on their own,” said Jeremiah.

When he’s not in the classroom, Jeremiah can be found on the football field during the fall, where he plays cornerback. If he’s not on the field, he can be found at the campus radio station 88.3 WLFC, where he is the general manager. When football ends, sports continue for Jeremiah; as the president of the digital media club, he serves as the sideline reporter and color commentator for the University of Findlay men’s and women’s basketball teams.

Nice facilities and a second-to-none education come with a price, something Jeremiah attributes to donors. “I would like to thank the donors of the University for being able to make my college experience the best it could be. By donating, they have allowed for our radio station to be in a new and improved space here on campus. I also want to thank donors for everything they’ve done in supporting the football team, as donor support is very much appreciated.”

With the support of donors, alumni, and his professors, Jeremiah has had quite the college experience. “The faculty here are very open to student involvement because they want to see us maximize our abilities. I had the opportunity to provide media coverage of sporting events broadcasted around the country, the opportunity to interview President Fell for my podcast, and the chance to interview Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn,” he said. “Everyone here at the University of Findlay really wants to see the students win, and I really appreciate that!”

“The efforts of donors are very important, because they help create the college experience,” said Jeremiah. “The college experience is key because it allows you to open your eyes to your career path where you not only find yourself in college, but you begin to see which direction in life you want to go. College allows you to be around people who are different than you, and for you to see new things as well.”

KATIE & KENDRA FEUCHT

Twins: Two Unique Souls United by Birth

BY BRANDEN FERGUSON

“It makes a huge difference in your studies when you’re at a small university like Findlay. I feel like I am able to succeed because it’s easy to get the support you need, and it’s easy to go to your professors and tell them you need help. All of that comes with a price tag, but donors make it all possible,” said University of Findlay junior Kendra Feucht.

Kendra made the two-hour trip from Navarre, Ohio to attend the University of Findlay, but she didn’t do it alone. Katie Feucht is Kendra’s twin sister and said the decision to attend the same school has been great. “It wasn’t something we were always set on, but it wasn’t something that we were opposed to. We’ve been together since birth, and it definitely made the transition to college a lot easier,” Katie said. “I wasn’t ready to leave home, but Katie was ready to venture out. Being with my sister brought me comfort, so I followed her to campus where we have created a second home,” said Kendra.

Both are recipients of endowed scholarships, with Katie receiving money from the Leon Charles Lantz Scholarship Endowment Fund, and Kendra receiving money from the Marjorie M. McGranahan-Mildred

F. McGranahan-Shafer-Van Dorn-McGranahan Scholarship Endowment Fund. “It’s such a big relief knowing how supported we are here at UF. Knowing that I can come here and it’s affordable thanks to the alumni and donors that made it all possible,” said Kendra.

While on campus, both sisters have carved out their own experiences. Katie is an animal science/ pre-veterinarian and biology double major with a chemistry minor. In her free time, she holds a campus job, is a part of multiple clubs, and is a second-year resident assistant on campus. “My senior year of high school I knew I wanted to be in residence life, but the number of opportunities presented to me is something I never expected,” she said.

Kendra is currently studying biology and hopes to one day work for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources as a wildlife officer. While studying at the University of Findlay, she has been working on her leadership skills. Considered an MS III (cadet staff sergeant), Kendra is a member of the Army ROTC program at BGSU and is set to commission in May 2024. “I get to take part in something I love (ROTC), but I also get to come back to a family-like atmosphere here at Findlay. I truly get the best of both worlds.”

Despite their different college experiences, Kendra and Katie still have each other. They also realize that they have the support of donors. “These donors and our alumni care so much about what Findlay represents that they are willing to make sure other students get to experience the same things they did. From helping students afford the close-knit community, to the amazing facilities and spaces, they want to see students enjoy their time at UF,” the two of them said.

PAIGE FALK Scholarships Create Experiences. Experiences Create Family

BY BRANDEN FERGUSON

When Paige Falk started looking at schools, she began her search with a focus on lacrosse teams around her hometown of Brighton, Michigan. On that list was University of Findlay, and the interest was mutual with the lacrosse coach inviting her to campus for a trip. “After visiting I went home and I immediately had a gut feeling – UF was where I was supposed to go,” she said.

With the decision to attend University of Findlay made, the focus turned to finances. Paige’s vision of becoming an Oiler and playing lacrosse was made a reality when she was awarded a scholarship through the William and Lucye Hoopes Scholarship Endowment Fund. “They have definitely made my experience here possible. Without their help, I wouldn’t have been able to come to the University of Findlay,” Paige said. “It’s comforting knowing that I and other students have the support of donors.”

With the support of donors and the stress of tuition out of the way, Paige started to create a home away from home. Paige’s group of friends began to grow with lacrosse teammates, classmates, and through various campus events. “One of those memories that will always stick with me occurred my freshman year. I walked out of my dorm room and saw a camel in the middle of campus. That’s one I’ll never forget,” she said of the campus event that brought animals onto campus.

Despite a successful and productive campus experience, COVID put a damper on things, and

Paige started to question college. “I had serious thoughts of leaving,” she recalled. “The main reason I decided to stay was the people here. The feeling you get when on campus, the support from my teammates and professors…I had so much of a family here that I couldn’t walk away.”

After deciding to stay, Paige decided to make the most of her college experience. “I remember being in one of my classes and someone coming in to talk about studying abroad. I immediately said, ‘I want to do that!’” Paige made the trip to Austria in fall 2022, an experience made possible thanks to additional scholarships. “I wanted to immerse myself in a different culture and learn through the experience. The University of Findlay made that possible.”

Getting ready to head into her senior year in fall 2023, Paige has started to look back at her time at UF. “The biggest difference between Findlay and other schools is that you get a close-knit community. I have so many connections and friends around campus because of its smaller size,” she said. “With everyone’s support and the freedom to get involved, you can tailor your experience and make it what you want.”

“I would like to thank all University of Findlay donors, especially the Burson family for their generosity. Whether or not I was a recipient of a donor’s gift, that money was used to make the college experience possible for my classmates and teammates here on campus. I wouldn’t have the same experience if it wasn’t for UF’s donors.”

DAPHNE COOPER Scholarship Allows Student to Loosen the Reins

BY BRANDEN FERGUSON

Daphne Cooper’s passion for horses started at a young age. “I grew up that horse-crazy kid,” she admitted. “Then in 5th grade, my mom bought a pair of horses hoping to get my older sister, who is autistic, into equine therapy to help. That just fueled my obsession, and I’ve been around horses ever since.”

Daphne is a senior at the University of Findlay and looking to complete her majors in both equine business management and western equestrian studies with a training emphasis. A recipient of the Western Equestrian Operating Scholarship, Daphne was able to put all her focus into her hands-on learning and academics, instead of worrying about finances. “When I found out that I was being awarded a scholarship, I was elated. I was completely shocked! I was so very thankful that someone was donating their own money to help further my education even though they’ve never met me,” Daphne said.

Out of the gates, she got involved in the University’s equine programs. “For my first two years, I was part of a riding team, and I enjoyed every bit of it. I then switched over to the ranch horse team where I learned a ton.” In her senior year, Daphne now spends most of her time on the Western farm, where she interns and helps the management team to care for the horses. “I’m learning how to do more vet-based care such as vaccinations and medications,” she said.

Like many students, Daphne chose UF not only for the top-notch program, but because it also

reminded her of home with its close-knit community. What she didn’t expect was just how much support and love she would receive. “My father was in a motorcycle accident, and it wasn’t feasible for me to send Tikki, my 9-year-old gypsy vanner horse, back home. The University and my professors worked with me, and I was able to keep her on campus,” she said. “I had people checking on me and making sure I was ok. It was something I never expected. It was like having a second family here at UF.”

Daphne hopes to one day be the owner and operator of a boarding and training stable. “Back home we have 80 acres that I’ve been given free rein to do whatever I would like with, and I would like to host reining events and continue my passion with horses.” Once her career grows, she hopes to take it one step further. “I want to do what these donors have done for so many countless students. It’s inspiring. I too want to give back to my community!”

After graduation, Daphne plans to head back home to Havelock, N.C., but already knows she’s going to miss her alma mater. “I’m going to miss the amazing people, the professors, the wonderful facilities, and the top-notch horses that the University has for students to work with,” she said. “I’ll be back, and maybe one day I’ll be able to give back as well.”

TRISTA FINTEL Making History in Oiler Athletics

BY JOSH EILOLA

Trista Fintel made history for University of Findlay when she became the first female studentathlete in the program’s history to win the Division II indoor shot put national title, with a throw of 16.04 meters. Trista, a native of Deshler, Ohio, has been excelling in track and field since the seventh grade, and her hard work and dedication have finally paid off.

Trista’s journey to success started when the University’s track coach recruited her to come to Findlay. She visited the campus and immediately fell in love with it. From that moment on, Trista knew that she wanted to be a part of the Oiler family.

She admits however that Findlay was not an obvious choice for her, as she thought it was too close to home and too small. She also now admits that she was wrong. “Don’t overlook the small schools. You get a better education, you have so many friends, and you get so much hands-on learning in your classes,” she said. “I overlooked Findlay because it was so close to home, but I have absolutely fallen in love with campus and the ability to still go home and see my family.”

Trista’s major is social work, and she credits the University for giving her the opportunity to pursue her passion for athletics and academics. She has both athletic and academic scholarships, which have helped her immensely. Trista believes that scholarships are essential, and she is grateful to the donors who made it possible for her to attend the University. “It’s amazing,

[the donors] don’t know us and we don’t know them, but they still want to offer this opportunity to us to get an education,” she said. “We are very grateful for them.”

Aside from being an exceptional athlete and student, Trista is also a member of Campus Ministries. She has found that her faith has been an integral part of her success both on and off the track. Trista believes that being a part of Campus Ministries has helped her to stay focused and motivated. Trista is grateful for the opportunities that the University has provided her and hopes to continue to develop her skills in athletics and find new passions like taking piano classes this spring semester.

What keeps Trista at Findlay is the connections she made on campus. She loves the closeness of the classes and professors, which has allowed her to get the support and guidance she needs to succeed. Trista’s success story is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a supportive community.

Trista has achieved a significant milestone in her athletic career. She is an inspiration to many, and her story serves as a reminder that with determination, anything is possible. She will graduate with her bachelor’s degree next year and will then go on to pursue her master’s degree. When asked what’s next for her, she had one thing to say, “Win another national title.” Trista’s future is bright, and Oiler Nation can’t wait to see what she achieves next.

The O.J. and Georgia Huffman Scholarship Endowment Fund

O.J. AND GEORGIA HUFFMAN

Hancock County Born, Hancock County Raised, Hancock County Proud

BY BRANDEN FERGUSON

O.J. Huffman was born on November 19, 1917, in Van Buren, Ohio. In July 1938, he married Georgia St. Clair, and the two continued their life in Hancock County. O.J. farmed 800 acres while wearing many hats over the years. He was a member of the McComb Rotary Club, a charter member of the Liberty Township Fire Department, former CEO and Chairman of the Board of People’s Bank in McComb, and a Hancock County Commissioner.

The Huffmans were invested in Hancock County and wanted to see it thrive. In 1966 O.J. was elected a county commissioner, where he served one term until 1970. When the McComb bank was on the verge of closing in the late 1970s due to legal problems, O.J. pulled in and said “We’re going to fix this,” his daughter Jayne Dahlgren recalls. “He managed to do just that.” O.J. was the majority stockholder when he became the CEO. When the bank was bought by Rurban Financial Corp., he became a director.

Outside of their passion for making Hancock County better, the Huffmans were passionate about education. Avid supporters of the University of Findlay, the two set up the O.J. and Georgia Huffman Scholarship Endowment Fund. Scholarship assistance is awarded through the fund annually, and first preference is given to graduates of any Hancock County high school. The scholarship goes to help those who are not receiving additional assistance from athletics, and can be awarded multiple years to the same students if they maintain a 3.00 or better G.P.A.

One of those students is Riley Metzker, who is currently studying psychology, but plans to continue her education at UF and transition to the occupational therapy graduate program after she completes her undergraduate degree. “Growing up in a less privileged community has not only offered financial and academic challenges, but has also helped me realize the importance of a college education,” Riley said. “Receiving the O.J. and Georgia Huffman Scholarship motivates me to maintain my GPA and complete my degree. I look forward to being able to give back to my community as a future occupational therapist,” she wrote in her thank you letter to the family.

Courtney Grace Fox is also a recipient of a scholarship from the Huffman family. She’s finishing up her pharmacy degree and hopes to stay in the area and serve the Findlay community. She holds multiple jobs to help pay for schooling, and thanks the Huffman family for easing the stress. “I have been working to pay off my college tuition and books, and it is a lot to juggle. Your generosity means a lot and has already helped me so much. Thank you for investing in my future. I trust that God has a plan for my life, and I am very excited to see where he takes me,” she wrote to the family.

The O.J. and Georgia Huffman Scholarship Endowment Fund is currently awarded to 23 UF students.

The William W. Beall Golf Scholarship Endowment

PAM BEALL JOHN BEALL

ERIN MULCAHY

JOHN & PAM BEALL Beall Family Helping Students Get Out of the Rough

BY BRANDEN FERGUSON

The William W. Beall Golf Scholarship Endowment Fund was established to award students who are members of the University of Findlay intercollegiate golf team. The scholarship is named after William W. Beall, a 1943 graduate who played on the college golf team. His family, including his son John and John’s wife Pam, a UF alum, continue to offer scholarships to golfers, while also helping to change campus for all students.

John and Pam have funded the Beall Oilers Golf Center, supported the construction of the Center for Student Life and the College of Business, donated towards the Findlay Fund (University general fund), and fund the William W. Beall Golf Scholarship as well as the James and Jessica Moses Business Scholarship. “Giving to the University of Findlay allows me not only to give back to the University but also to invest in the community. As a terrific asset to the community, enhancing the experience available to students gives the University the opportunity to reach greater potential and accomplish multiple objectives on campus and off,” said Pam.

An Oiler herself, Pam has served as a UF Board of Trustees member since 2005, is a member of the Together We Will campaign task force and the campaign executive committee. She was awarded Distinguished Alumni in October 2015, and she and John were both honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award in February 2022.

The Bealls’ efforts on campus have not gone unnoticed for students like sophomore Erin Mulcahy.

Erin and her twin sister both play on the women’s golf team and spend countless hours in the wonderful Beall Oilers Golf Center, made possible by John and Pam. Erin is also a recipient of the William W. Beall Golf Scholarship. “Their support means the world to everyone on the golf team, and for them to pick me, it’s something I’ll never forget.”

Erin was part of last year’s national championship team and said that it’s one of her favorite memories and something she’ll always remember. She says none of it would have been possible without people like John and Pam. “I’ve had the opportunity to interact with the Bealls and I can honestly say they are some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. Knowing they support the golf program and students like me is amazing,” said Erin. “Good people support good things, and it’s a wonderful feeling being a part of it.”

John and Pam are proud supporters of the golf program, but equally as supportive of the students who attend the University. “We’ve always been amazed by the quality of students and athletes the University seems to produce. Great golfers, but even more amazing individuals!”

The Beall family plans to continue their support of the University of Findlay, and hope others realize the impact of donations. “When you initiate a donation, there’s no telling where it will take the students you are able to help, or the alumni that they will become. A small gesture can change lives, and you’ll never know just how much until you take that first step and donate,” they said.

Class Notes

2010s

Thomas Roush ’00 of Salineville, Ohio is EHS Manager at Ergon - West Virginia, Inc. in Newell W. Va.

Jessica (Swihart '13) Vandenbroek of Venedocia, Ohio is Practice Manager at Heidt Veterinary Hospital in Lima, Ohio.

Kaylene (Slayton '14) Love of Bucyrus, Ohio is Director of Member Services and Director of Marketing at American Modeling Teachers Association in Boothwyn, Pa.

Cloudette Heichel ’09 of Forest Grove, Oregon is Assistant General Counsel at Alaska USA Federal Credit Union in Forest Grove, Ore.

Dwayne Webb ’18 of Chillicothe, Ohio is Business Owner/Real Estate investor at We Buy Houses Fast Ohio in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Trent Hesselschwardt ’20 of Defiance, Ohio is Global HSE Audit Program Manager at Holcim in Holderbank, Switzerland.

As the final year of my term as president of the Alumni Board of Governors winds down, I am so pleased to look back on the many exciting events and happy gatherings of Oiler alumni!

Along with enjoying fellowship and sharing memories, it’s also inspiring to me how many alums are committed to supporting this next generation of Oilers.

Please know how much your involvement – whether that is speaking on campus, mentoring new UF graduates, or making a financial gift – makes a lasting impact on students. And if you’re interested in being more involved on campus, please contact the Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents, & Friends and we’ll connect you!

Remember to check out the UF calendar of events for plenty of summer fun, too.

Looking forward to seeing you at Homecoming, if not before!

Nicole (Hauenstein ’99) Burgy, President Alumni Association Board of Governors

In Memory

1950s

Martha J. (Kendall ’56) Cunningham

1960s

Eugene M. Neiderhiser '60

Gerald S. Fenberg '61

John J. DeSanti '66

1970s

Joseph P. Pundai '70

Lin Stoudt ‘71

Kathie (Pressnell ’71) Johnston

David A. Grimwood '72

Peggy B. (Treece ‘73) Myles

Richard E. Lodge '74

Susana E. Wyatt '75

Brad H. Buchenroth ‘79

1980s

Laurence H. Smith '84

Rodney Richards ’88 ‘91

1990s

Rodney K. Richards '91

Aimee Caudill ‘94

2000s

Angela R. Crace '02

Friends

Rico D. Dougherty

Patricia MacQueen

Charles McClellan, Jr.

Layne A. Morris

Jonathan A. Binkley '63, Jonathan and his twin brother David were born in a car on the way to the hospital in Princeton, Illinois. Their birth made national news since they were born in different townships.He taught at Donnell Junior High Findlay Public Schools, 19631964; Romulus (Michigan) Junior High School, 19651966; Romulus High School, 1966-1967; Instructor in government, Whitmer High School, Washington Local Schools, Toledo, 1967-1996. He retired in 1997.

Robert W. Montgomery '66, A freshman on the 1961 Findlay College Mid-Ohio Conference championship football team, Robert was named the outstanding defensive lineman on that team. He went on to letter four years in football and track, and was, again, named the outstanding defensive lineman in 1964 - his senior year. An outstanding two-way performer, Bob was the only player named first-team All-NAIA District 22 on both offense and defense. He also received honorable mention recognition on the NAIA All-America Football Team as a defensive lineman. In 1984, he was inducted into the Findlay College Athletic Hall of Fame.

Richard R. VanHorn '70, Richard received life ordination in 1972 by Churches of God General Conference. He graduated from the University of Findlay and Winebrenner Seminary of Findlay. He served the University for 17 years as an active trustee and was a trustee emeritus. The University honored him by bestowing on him a Doctor of Divinity Degree. He was honored with a Distinguished Alumnus award. After his retirement in 1997, he continued to serve as interim pastor for five churches as they awaited their next senior pastor. Richard served the church for 51 years as a servant of God.

David Roy Shaffer '71, Mr. Shaffer graduated in 1967 from Burrell High School and went on to graduate from Findlay College in 1971 with a major in chemistry where he was a member of the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity. He was previously employed by the Dravo Corporation as a metallurgist and EMC as a purchasing manager. He ended his working career with PGT Trucking in Monaca, PA. David enjoyed farming where he grew a number of vegetables, riding his motorcycles, and listening to classic rock and roll music. He was an outgoing individual and made friends easily. If you knew him for five minutes, he knew your life history!

William E. Ruse, Bill had a distinguished career in healthcare administration, teaching and writing, and was active throughout the community in various organizations and committees. Following his retirement, he served as member of adjunct faculty in college of business and college of pharmacy at the University of Findlay. He was a founding owner and board member of Buckeye State Bank, founding member of Creative Solutions Enterprises - Maximizing asset utilization for small and mid-sized colleges and universities and small business. He was committed to the community and giving back. He was a long-time member of St. Michael Parish, past member of Commercial Savings Bank, Upper Sandusky, and University of Findlay trustee emeritus.

Marriages & Births

Marriages

Debra (Prichard ’89 M’98) Elderbrock and Steve Elderbrock were wed on Oct. 22, 2022. They reside in Burnsville, N.C.

1 Landon Fleegle ’14 and Sammantha (Brown ’08) Fleegle were wed on Sept. 10, 2022. They reside in Findlay, Ohio.

Births

3 Megan (Rachow ’09 DPT ‘11) Decker and Adam Decker welcomed Emilia on Nov. 24, 2022.

4 Matthew Smith ’09 and Sarah (Hodakievic ’11) Smith welcomed Jensen on Oct. 19, 2022.

5 Stephanie (Springer ’10) Leddy and Matt Leddy welcomed Peter on Sept. 3, 2022.

6 Jessica (Swihart ’13) Vandenbroek and Nathan Vandenbroek welcomed Noelle on Oct. 16, 2022.

Class notes for this issue were received by April 24, 2023.

2 John Darnall ’18 DPT ’20 and Kelsie (Crities ’21) Darnall were wed on Sept. 17, 2022. They reside in Grants Pass, OR.

Planning for a vacation requires selecting a destination, making reservations, and packing your bags. Another area of life that requires good planning is how you'll leave your estate. It’s never too early to set a road map for the future!

7 Brandon King ’15 and Laura (Luckey ’16 M’17) King welcomed Tristan on Jan. 1, 2023.

8 Matthew Haas ’16 M’17 and Shelby (Cole ’18) Haas welcomed Andrew on Nov. 4, 2022.

9 Bryan Mattingly ’18 and Nichole (Hall ’15) Mattingly welcomed Amelia on Jan 3, 2022.

Beth (Ritzenthaler ’21) Leonard and Josh Leonard welcomed Charlotte on Sept. 30, 2022.

• Celebrating the 50th reunion of the Class of 1973

• 50th Reunion of WLFC, the campus radio station

• 100th Anniversary of the Griffith Memorial Arch

JOIN THE FUN!

Friday night Oiler Bash, Alumni Awards breakfast, tailgate and football game, Saturday evening concert on the lawn, fireworks!

Alumni Association

Board of Governors

2022-23

Officers

President

Nicole (Hauenstein '99) Burgy

Vice President

Suzzette (Stewart '97) Boyd

Past President

DeMya Wimberly '94

Elected Representatives (3 year terms)

Dr. Michael Bankey '84

Pastor Kenneth "Ed" Brandt '81

Ann DeHaven '70

Preston Eberlyn ’15

Kimberly (Clemons '81) Grilliot

Dr. Lisa (Huffman '84) Hansel

Michael Kantner '04 M'06

Forrest Miller ’17

Kathy (Schalk '09) Myers

Dean Plott ’93

Alissa (Simpson '01) Preston

William Rumbold ‘74

Jennifer (Reinhart '99) Schoenberger

Dr. Brian Treece ’01 MAE ’02

Margaret Wetzler '92

Samuel Yates '16

Student Representatives (2 year appointments)

College of Science

Tori Ritzler

College of Health Professions

Kaitlyn Froelich

College of Education

Caitlyn Maag

College of Business

Gracie Clement

College of Pharmacy

Zoey Cook

SGA President

Ashlyn Coleman

UAA President

Katie Harris

SCAN HERE TO WATCH FOR A FULL SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

Alumni Events

UF President Katherine Fell, Ph.D., and administrators from the Alumni and Advancement office enjoyed a trip in February to meet with several Oiler alumni and friends in the Sunshine State.

Lauderdale Yacht Club From left: UF alumni director Kelly Lavelle, Rich Flowers, Beth Flowers, Cary Ratliff ’76, Marian Calendrillo, Paul Calendrillo ’71, hosts Jamie Macy and Bret Macy ’97, President Fell, UF associate vice president of advancement Ken McIntyre, Mike Yunis ’80, Julia Martell-Durkin, and Peyton Sibert ’18.

St. Petersburg, Fla. President Fell, center, with hosts Alice and Dwight Miller ’73.

The capital city of Tokyo – with its unique blend of neon-lit skyscrapers and historic temples – was the setting March 4 for the first UF alumni gathering in Japan. The event welcomed nearly 60 alumni, bringing people from across the country. Guests included Japanese alumni as well as American alumni who live or work in Japan.

Tokyo, Japan From left: Hiroaki “Hiro” Kawamura, Ph.D., UF associate professor of Japanese and director of modern languages; Roger Fell; President Fell; and Hiroaki Kimura, Ph.D. University of Health and Welfare in Okayama.

$75 million

The Campaign for the Future of the University of Findlay

UPDATE

Our financial goal for this campaign - $75 million – reflects the University’s passion for developing graduates who serve and lead with purpose, passion, and skill. More than two-thirds of the way to the goal, we are truly grateful to the more than 8,770 generous donors who have topped the $52 million mark.

GIVE TODAY

Make a gift today to support scholarships, construct and expand state-of-the-art facilities, provide experiential learning, and invest in faculty who model research and service for students.

give.findlay.edu