A MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT
Looking back at the 2023-2024 academic year, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible generosity of our donors, who continue to make a profound impact on our students and the University of Mount Union. As we focus on putting students first (read more on the final pages of this report), your support enables us to offer transformative educational experiences and to foster a community where our students thrive both inside and outside of the classroom.
Thanks to your contributions during this past year, we were able to expand scholarship opportunities, enhance academic programs, and invest in state-of-the-art facilities that enrich the learning environment. Your support has also helped sustain critical student services and co-curricular experiences, ensuring that our students not only gain knowledge but also develop the character and skills to succeed in life.
To all of our donors, thank you for your unwavering commitment to Mount Union. Your generosity helps make a Mount Union education possible and ensures that we continue to inspire, support, and challenge our students to pursue fulfilling lives, meaningful work, and responsible citizenship.
Gratefully,
Logan Aguiniga Vice President for University Advancement
2,000+ TOTAL ENROLLMENT
130+ ACADEMIC RANKINGS
A UNIVERSITY THAT MAKES AN IMPACT
96% GRADUATE SUCCESS RATE
99% OF STUDENTS RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID
253 OAC CHAMPIONSHIPS
The University of Mount Union, a private midwestern institution founded in 1846, offers a rigorous and relevant academic program that is grounded in the liberal arts tradition. Mount Union’s more than 2,000 students can select from 44 broad-based and career-specific undergraduate majors, including recent additions in engineering, nursing, and data science. In addition, nine graduate programs are offered in fields such as physician assistant studies, physical therapy, education, and business, and nursing, with occupational therapy slated to begin this year. Known for its academic excellence and personal approach, the institution boasts a 13:1 student-faculty ratio and a curriculum delivered by dedicated faculty members, 99% of whom hold terminal degrees in their fields.
Over the past two decades, Mount Union has invested more than $200 million in the construction and renovation of modern facilities, including a natural sciences building, recreation center, apartment-style housing, a health and medical sciences facility, a performing arts center, a business and engineering building, a football coaching center, and an esports and golf facility. Primarily residential in nature, Mount Union’s picturesque 123-acre campus is located in Alliance, OH (population 23,000), within 80 miles of both Cleveland and Pittsburgh. The 162-acre Huston-Brumbaugh Nature Center is located six miles away. The University’s endowment is in excess of $179 million.
The University strives to make its exceptional educational experience accessible to students of all financial backgrounds. Its increasingly-diverse campus community benefits from a student-centered approach, 25 intercollegiate athletic teams in addition to intramural and recreational opportunities, and an array of activities for cultural, civic, and social development. Students experience outstanding opportunities for success after graduation, both in the workforce and in graduate study.
A LIFELINE FOR GROWTH
Finance major Dane Riley ’27 is the first recipient of the Richard K. and Gale A. Harr Endowed Scholarship. Established by the Veale Foundation in 2022, this award provides a one-year, full-tuition scholarship to a rising sophomore or junior majoring in accounting, finance, or data science/ analytics.
“I envision myself as a financial advisor, guiding individuals and families toward financial security and helping them navigate the complexities of personal finance,” Riley wrote in his scholarship application. “But more than that, I want to be a mentor and a source of inspiration, encouraging others to pursue their goals and dreams with confidence and purpose.
“I want to help others because I believe that being kind and understanding can change lives,” he continued. “Seeing people struggle without financial guidance motivates me to make a difference. It’s not just a job – it’s about doing what I believe in. By guiding and inspiring others, I hope to help them achieve their dreams and make a difference in their communities.”
In short, Riley has learned through his studies at Mount Union that finance is not just about dollars and cents, but rather about empowering individuals to achieve finacial stability and, in turn, their overall wellbeing.
According to Riley, receiving this scholarship has been transformative for his family, alleviating a tremendous financial burden and providing much-needed peace of mind. “[This scholarship] is a lifeline that [enables] me to continue my journey of self-discovery and growth at Mount Union, where I’ve found a community that nurtures and supports my aspirations,” Riley wrote.
Beyond the classroom, Riley has been involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, including the Investment Team, Lifting Club, and track and field team – experiences he credits with shaping his personal and professional development.
The Veale Foundation was established in 1964 by Harriett and Tinkham Veale to improve the quality of life for the residents primarily located in Northeastern Ohio. To fulfill this mission, The Veale Foundation is committed to
supporting charitable causes involved in education, human and social services, civic and community life, and healthcare. After retiring from a successful career in finance, most recently at HTV Industries of Pepper Pike, Richard Harr ’75 served as a trustee of the Veale Foundation for several years.
“Rich was an important and valued team member, and we are proud to provide this scholarship in memory of him and in honor of Gale (Roberts ’77) to make a meaningful impact on students at Mount Union,” said Daniel Harrington, chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. “We hope that the scholarship will have as much of an impact on the University of Mount Union as Rich had on the foundation. Our trustees believe that the gift will allow Mount Union to attract and maintain students of Rich Harr’s caliber who will have a positive influence on the local community and world.”
“I am honored to have received this scholarship and hope that I can live up to Mr. Harr’s legacy,” Riley wrote. “I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and hope to one day give back to the community, just as you have generously invested in me.”
3,028 DONORS TOTAL SUPPORTERS
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR STUDENT-ATHLETES
Thanks to your support of M Club and our athletics teams, year after year, our student-athletes have the opportunity to pursue championship experiences, travel with their teammates, and utilize state-of-the-art athletic facilities and equipment. Your generosity has helped our student-athletes excel both on and off the court and realize the athletic milestones mentioned below.
BASEBALL
• The Purple Raiders finished the 2024 season 27-13 overall and 10-8 in the OAC – their seventh-straight season with 20 or more wins.
• Head Coach Paul Hesse won his 600th game.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
• Senior Christian Parker was named a Second Team AllAmerican, becoming only the second player in program history to be named All-American multiple times.
MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY
• The Raiders qualified for the NCAA Nationals.
FOOTBALL
• The team advanced to its NCAA Division III-record 34th NCAA Playoff, concluded its 32nd undefeated regular season, and claimed a conference-record 34th Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Championship.
• All-American wide receiver Wayne Ruby Jr. signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars after finishing his career as Mount’s all-time receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns leader.
• All-American quarterback Braxton Plunk concluded his career, breaking the NCAA Division III record with 14,599 passing yards and being a finalist for the Gagliardi Trophy.
WOMEN’S GOLF
• Jocelyn Troyer was a co-medalist at the OAC Championships and broke the school 54-hole and 72-hole records.
WOMEN’S LACROSSE
• The team claimed the OAC Regular Season Championship.
MEN’S SOCCER
• The team claimed the most wins in a single season in school history and the highest national ranking in school history.
• Carter Hancock was named a First Team All-American, becoming the second in school history to get First Team honors and the first All-American since 1994.
SOFTBALL
• The team made it to the NCAA Regional Final.
• They claimed their first back-to-back OAC Regular Season Championships and 30-win seasons in program history.
WOMEN’S TENNIS
• The team advanced to the OAC Semifinals for the first time since the 2018-19 season.
MEN’S TRACK AND FIELD
• The 4x400-Meter Relay Team claimed an NCAA Indoor Championship.
• The team won its 13th-straight Outdoor and 12th-straight Indoor OAC Team Titles.
WOMEN’S TRACK AND FIELD
• The team claimed an NCAA Indoor Championship sixthplace finish, the second-best in program history and won its third straight Indoor OAC Team Title.
• Kenadee Wayt became a two-time National Champion (Indoor – 200 and 400) and the first member of the women’s track and field team to win multiple individual events in the same NCAA Championship in school history. She also became the all-time leader in All-American honors for Mount Union with 22 total, the fourth-most in Division III history, and was named the United States Track and Field Cross Country Coaches Association Division III National Women’s Indoor Track Athlete of the Year and the NCAA Elite 90 Indoor Track and Field winner.
WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL
• The team advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2014.
MEN’S WRESTLING
• Jack Stanley and Bryce McCloskey both qualified for the 2024 NCAA Championships.
$179 MILLION
TOTAL ENDOWMENT AS OF JUNE 30, 2024
INVESTING IN OUR MISSION
5% SPENDING POLICY CURRENTLY THE TRUSTEE-APPROVED SPENDING FORMULA CALLS FOR AN ANNUAL DISTRIBUTION OF 5% OF THE PREVIOUS 12-QUARTER ROLLING MARKET VALUE AVERAGE OF THE ENDOWMENT
As the world continues to face social and economic challenges, strategies for longterm financial sustainability are more important than ever. Our strategy is to continue to grow and strengthen the university’s endowment.
We are pleased to report that, thanks to the generosity of our donors and the success of our investment strategies, the value of the University of Mount Union’s endowment is currently $179,000,000.
4% FACILITIES, MAINTENANCE, AND EQUIPMENT
$7.5 MILLION DISTRIBUTED FROM THE ENDOWMENT TO SUPPORT CAMPUS PRIORITIES IN 2023-2024
ENDOWED CHAIRS, PROFESSORSHIPS, AND LECTURESHIPS
THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMPASSION
The Student Emergency Fund launched in March 2020 as a response to the financial hardships Mount Union students were facing resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the fund serves as a crucial resource for Purple Raiders in dire financial need. Whether a student has exhausted all financial aid and are still falling short on their tuition bill, or something unexpected like a family illness changes their circumstances, the Student Emergency Fund is there to help students continue their education.
In the 2023-2024 fiscal year, 64 students received a total of $145,370 from the Student Emergency Fund. Thanks to your generous contributions to the Student Emergency Fund, we have been able to provide vital assistance to students facing unforeseen and challenging situations. Your support has helped ease financial burdens, ensuring our students can continue their education with less worry about their immediate needs. Your thoughtfulness has also offered hope, encouragement, and a sense of community.
I first heard about the Student Emergency Fund through the Office of Financial Aid and was immediately relieved. Without the Student Emergency Fund, I would not have been able to continue at Mount Union. I would like to say thank you a million times over to all of the donors who helped me when I thought that I had no other options. Mount Union means family and home to me; I love going to school here and would not want to be anywhere else.
Haven Miner ’26
Education Major from Canton, Ohio
$1.6 MILLION
CONTRIBUTED TO THE MOUNT UNION FUND IN 2023-2024
2,670 DONORS TO THE MOUNT UNION FUND IN 2023-2024
THE DIFFERENCE YOU MAKE
$88 THOUSAND CONTRIBUTED DURING THE 2023 VIRTUAL STADIUM SELL OUT
607 DONORS TO THE 2023 VIRTUAL STADIUM SELL OUT
Our seventh annual Raiders Give took place on April 11, 2024. If you’re not familiar, Raiders Give is an annual day for the Purple Raider nation—alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff, and friends—to come together and support the University. This year, 1,025 donors gave $384,082!
A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP AND GIVING BACK
Luke Messner ’09, pictured to the right with his wife, Serenity, is a proud Mount Union alumnus and co-owner of TKM Print Solutions Inc. He reflects on his journey from student to successful entrepreneur and the transformative role the University of Mount Union had in shaping his career and values. For Luke, Mount Union wasn’t just a stepping stone; it was a launchpad that provided him with meaningful relationships, academic growth, and a deep sense of community.
Growing up in Dalton, Ohio, Luke first felt drawn to Mount Union by its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful campus. “My overnight stay was what sealed the deal,” Luke recalled. “The kindness of my host, the engaging classes, and the perfect distance from home – it all just clicked.”
Luke’s time as a student was filled with unforgettable experiences, from studying abroad in Italy to participating in the Dowling Mentor Program. He fondly remembers the community he built during his time at McCready Hall, where lifelong friendships were formed. “Living there was an adventure in itself,” he laughed. “I’m not sure how it’s still standing, but the memories are priceless.”
Yet it wasn’t just the friendships and experiences that left a lasting mark. Luke credits Mount Union for shaping his career path in ways he hadn’t anticipated. TKM was founded by Luke’s father, Thomas, in 2008. Initially considering law school, it was during his senior year that Luke started working at TKM while balancing academics with the demands of a new business. “Mount Union prepared me with skills I didn’t even know I needed,” he said. Courses in public speaking boosted his confidence, while studying abroad and volunteering reinforced his commitment to giving back.
That commitment to giving back has only grown stronger over the years. Inspired by Mount Union’s current president, Greg King ’89, Luke felt compelled to reconnect with the University and become a resource for future generations. “Greg King’s vision for Mount Union inspired me to get involved again,” Luke shared. “I wanted to share the lessons I’ve learned from over 16 years as an entrepreneur and business owner.”
But for Luke, giving back is more than just mentorship – it’s about ensuring that current and future students have the same opportunities he had. Supporting initiatives like the Social Responsibility Trip, the President’s Rescue Fund, and the Student Emergency Fund, Luke is passionate about helping students overcome life’s unexpected challenges. “These funds represent my commitment to helping students navigate their journeys at Mount Union, just as the university supported me,” he said.
Mount Union continues to hold a special place in Luke’s heart. Whether it’s proudly sporting the University’s iconic purple or reminiscing about the faculty and staff who shaped his experience, his connection to the school remains strong. “The relationships I built at Mount Union – those friendships, the connections with professors, even my favorite RA – have had a lasting impact on my life.”
For Luke Messner, Mount Union is more than just a memory. It’s a place where students are supported, friendships are forged, and future leaders are shaped – just as it did for him. Through his ongoing contributions, Luke ensures that legacy continues for generations to come.
37 MEMBERS OF THE DIAMOND CIRCLE (LIVING AND DECEASED)
304 MEMBERS OF THE 1846 SOCIETY
YOU ARE IN GOOD COMPANY
The University of Mount Union appreciates the generosity of our loyal supporters. Our four giving societies – Diamond Circle, 1846 Society, Heritage Society, and Forever Mount Society – were created to recognize outstanding generosity. Our societies celebrate four types of giving.
DIAMOND CIRCLE
This leadership giving society recognizes the loyalty of Mount Union’s most generous benefactors who have made lifetime gifts totaling $1 million or more.
1846 SOCIETY
The 1846 Society recognizes those donors who make an annual investment of $1,250 or more to the Mount Union Fund.
HERITAGE SOCIETY
The Heritage Society recognizes those who have expressed their commitment to the future of Mount Union through planned gifts and estate commitments. Planned gifts include bequests, charitable trusts, life insurance, and charitable gift annuities.
FOREVER MOUNT SOCIETY
The Forever Mount Society recognizes committed donors who have made gifts to the University for 25 years or more.
611 MEMBERS OF THE HERITAGE SOCIETY (LIVING AND DECEASED)
1,853 MEMBERS OF THE FOREVER MOUNT SOCIETY (LIVING AND DECEASED)
PAYING IT FORWARD
Roger ’61 and Patty Clay have built a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and service to others. Roger’s loyal service to Mount Union’s Board of Trustees for over nearly 30 years and the Clays’ generous support of Mount Union has helped pave the way to campus for many Purple Raiders.
Born in Scottsville, Kentucky, Roger and his family moved to Hartville when he was just two years old. He grew up alongside his brother and graduated from Hartville High School in 1957.
Drawn to Mount Union by the campus community and church affiliation, as well as the recommendation of a former high school basketball teammate and mentor, Roger found his place. “After visiting three colleges, I decided on Mount Union,” Roger recalled. “I also received a grant, which made it financially feasible.”
Initially pursuing pre-engineering as a major, Roger switched his focus to chemistry. “I didn’t like all that math,” he joked. His major in chemistry led him to a position as a research chemist at Lubrizol Corp. in Wickliffe, Ohio. But after three years, the opportunity to return to the family business beckoned. In 1972, Roger and Patty started a new Uniform Rental and Linen Supply business in North Canton, Ohio. Just recently, they sold this business after owning and operating it for 50 years.
Throughout their lives, the Clays never forgot the value of education and the opportunities it provided. When a close friend invited Roger to join the Board of Trustees at Mount Union, he accepted and embraced the chance to give back. “If I was going to be part of the governing body, I thought I needed to help financially,” he said.
In 2018, the Clays established the Roger and Patricia Clay Endowed Scholarship designed to support students who mirrored Roger’s own background – first-generation college students from working-class families. “We wanted our scholarship to reflect my profile,” Roger explained. “We asked that it be awarded to a Lake High School graduate with an approximate 3.5 GPA, involved in school activities, and, if possible, the first in their family to go to college.”
Recently, the Clays were able to meet their current scholarship recipient, Elizabeth Higginbotham ’26, and her mother over lunch. Elizabeth and her mother expressed their deep appreciation for the Clay’s thoughtful generosity.
Like Roger, Elizabeth grew up in Hartville and was also inspired by students who graduated before her and went on to Mount Union. “The first time I visited, the campus really caught my eye,” she said. “I knew this is where I wanted my new journey to begin.”
Like many students, Elizabeth faced financial hurdles that threatened to overshadow her dream of attending Mount Union. The Clays’ scholarship support helped make that dream a reality.
“When I received my scholarship and aid package, I felt so relieved. What an incredible feeling to be able to relax and not worry about finding the money to get a college degree,” said Elizabeth. “I am blessed and grateful that there are people out there like Roger and Patty who are willing to help others.”
A STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN 2024-2027 students first
MISSION
The mission of the University of Mount Union is to prepare students for fulfilling lives, meaningful work, and responsible citizenship.
VISION
As a community, the University of Mount Union upholds its mission by continuously and proactively creating a learning environment for holistic growth and a promising future.
STRATEGIC INITIATIVE #1
GROW
ENROLLMENT STRATEGICALLY
Demographic declines, coupled with fierce competition and questions regarding the value of a college degree, continue to impact higher education. We must position ourselves for enrollment stability and planful growth in order to adapt and succeed. This challenging environment demands that we focus on strategic steps that enhance the undergraduate and graduate student experience, whether delivered on campus or online, and rally as a community to actively further our enrollment efforts.
STRATEGIC ACTION #1
Stabilize the institution’s total enrollment and develop a plan for future enrollment growth.
STRATEGIC ACTION #2
Make every possible effort to keep a Mount Union education financially and academically accessible to new and returning students of all backgrounds.
STRATEGIC ACTION #3
Explore new and elevate existing programs – academic, athletic, and co-curricular – that are relevant, drive enrollment, and ensure success after graduation.
STRATEGIC ACTION #4
Enrich the campus, its properties, and its perimeter to provide a modern and engaging experience for all students.
STRATEGIC INITIATIVE #2
BOLSTER
STUDENT RETENTION
At the heart of all we do is a drive to foster an exceptional experience that engages students in our welcoming and inclusive environment. Whether they are learning on-campus or online, or in undergraduate, graduate, or other educational programs, they should feel engaged, supported, and valued in an atmosphere that respects and celebrates their differences while meeting their unique needs and expectations. By meeting them where they are, we can be more effective in shaping their success and supporting their journeys toward graduation.
STRATEGIC ACTION #1
Continue to build upon our solid foundation in advising, retention, and specialized student support programs.
STRATEGIC ACTION #2
Strengthen the student engagement experience by fostering community, leadership, activity, and belonging in a safe and welcoming environment.
STRATEGIC ACTION #3
Foster an inclusive and accessible learning environment that allows students to feel a sense of belonging when engaging with content and learning experiences.
PURPOSE
The University of Mount Union cultivates a learning environment that acknowledges, accepts, and meets differing needs so that everyone is valued, experiences belonging, and achieves their full potential.
STRATEGIC INITIATIVE #3
DEVELOP
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
Although, historically, many colleges and universities, especially small, private institutions, have chosen to go it alone when facing periods of challenge, modern times demand a shift in strategy. While the volatility of the higher education environment has rendered many institutions vulnerable, Mount Union is committed to transcending the barriers as we pave the way for student success. A partnership evolution may be the catalyst for not only surviving but thriving in the higher education arena.
STRATEGIC ACTION #1
Partner with employers to explore programmatic development based on their training, continuing education, and degree-required needs.
STRATEGIC ACTION #2
Enhance community and corporate partnerships, explore co-branding opportunities, and leverage our alumni network to allow for more communityengaged research and experiential learning for students.
STRATEGIC ACTION #3
Partner with regional officials and community leaders to foster continued collaboration and enhance Alliance and its offerings.
STRATEGIC ACTION #4
Collaborate with other institutions to offer academic pathways to enhance affordability and reduce the time it takes to earn a degree.
STRATEGIC INITIATIVE #4
POSITION
THE INSTITUTION FOR DISTINCTION
Mount Union has realized a wellearned strong standing among institutions of higher education, yet the ability to shape and share the unique and compelling stories of our exceptional university and student experience has never been more critical. By highlighting what makes us truly distinct – our people, academic programs, athletics, rankings, facilities, offerings, and more – we will be poised to position ourselves as a top choice in Northeast Ohio and, eventually, extend our reach regionally.
STRATEGIC ACTION #1
Continue to implement a brand and campaign that defines Mount Union’s distinctiveness.
STRATEGIC ACTION #2
Build our brand presence on campus through an environmental marketing strategy that highlights our students and alumni.
STRATEGIC ACTION #3
Showcase our people, academics, campus, facilities, digital learning, athletics, and student experience through various marketing channels.
STRATEGIC ACTION #4
Strive for campus-wide and studentcentered excellence in ways that establish us as the top choice among comprehensive private regional universities in Northeast Ohio.
STRATEGIC INITIATIVE #5
ENHANCE
BELONGING AND WORKPLACE CULTURE
At Mount Union, our focus has been and always will be on putting students first. Yet, no institution can be successful in the long run without employees who believe in its mission and understand their role in achieving it. We are committed to continuously improving our workplace culture to ensure an enhanced sense of belonging and pride for all employees. We stand behind the philosophy that when our people feel valued, they are better poised to play a critical role in the experience and success of our students.
STRATEGIC ACTION #1
Offer competitive and equitable compensation, benefits, and professional development opportunities for all employees.
STRATEGIC ACTION #2
Intentionally develop a respectful workplace culture that enables all employees to feel a strong sense of engagement and belonging.
STRATEGIC ACTION #3
Develop internal communication strategies and rollout procedures that are tailored to various employee populations and enable the community to efficiently manage change.
Donor support is the foundation of our university campus, fueling our dedication to innovation, opportunity, and excellence. On behalf of the University of Mount Union, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your ongoing contributions. Your generous gifts play a crucial role in ensuring that today’s Purple Raiders are equipped with the knowledge and lasting skills necessary to lead meaningful lives and make a significant impact in the world.
Gregory L. King ’89 President