A MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT
As we look back on the 2024-2025 fiscal year, one word comes to mind: gratitude. Your generosity continues to make an incredible difference for our students and for the University of Mount Union. Because of you, we can provide an education that goes beyond the classroom and offers an experience that helps students grow, lead, and thrive.
This past year, you helped expand scholarship opportunities, strengthen academic programs, and invest in facilities that enrich learning. You sustained vital student services and co-curricular experiences that prepare graduates for meaningful lives and careers. Every gift and every act of support have a direct impact on the students who call Mount Union home.
To all of you who give so generously: thank you. Your commitment ensures that a Mount Union education remains accessible, relevant, and transformative for generations to come. We couldn’t do this without you, and we are proud to partner with you in this important work.
With gratitude,
Logan Aguiniga Vice President for University Advancement University of Mount Union
2,200+ TOTAL ENROLLMENT
120+ ACADEMIC RANKINGS
A UNIVERSITY THAT MAKES AN IMPACT
96% GRADUATE SUCCESS RATE
99% OF STUDENTS RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID
268 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 2,200 students can select from 44 broad-based and career-specific undergraduate majors, including recent additions in sports media, engineering, nursing, and data science. In addition, 14 graduate programs are offered in fields such as physician assistant studies, physical therapy, education, business, nursing, and occupational therapy. Known for its academic excellence and personal approach, the institution boasts a 15:1 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 $192 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.
OPPORTUNITY AND IMPACT
From the rolling hills of Walland, Tennessee, Michael Hubbard (pictured on the right and also on the cover) arrived at the University of Mount Union with big dreams and an open mind. His visit to campus was transformative. The Department of Performing Arts welcomed him warmly, offering a tour that showcased not only the facilities but the sense of community that defines Mount Union. The swim team also played a pivotal role in his decision, giving him a glimpse of the camaraderie and competitive spirit that would later become a cornerstone of his college experience.
Michael’s academic ambitions were clear from the start. He pursued a double major in business management and human resource management, complemented by double minors in music and psychology. This unique combination reflects his passion for both analytical thinking and creative expression – a balance that shaped his time as a Purple Raider.
One of the most significant factors in Michael’s journey was the $22,000 music scholarship he received. “Without that scholarship, I could not have attended this university,” he shared. It was more than financial assistance; it was an opportunity to explore his love for music while pursuing a rigorous academic path. For Michael, this scholarship was a gateway to possibilities that might otherwise have remained out of reach.
Beyond academics, Michael embraced campus life wholeheartedly. As a senior on the swim team, he demonstrated discipline and perseverance, qualities that extended beyond the pool. And, his involvement didn’t stop there. Michael became a student class officer, a role that allowed him to give back to the university in meaningful ways.
One of his proudest contributions as class officer was spearheading the Class of 2025 gift – a pickleball court. With nearly 200 students in the Pickleball Club, this addition promises to be a vibrant hub of activity for years to come. “We’re really excited about this gift,” Michael said. “It’s something that will be used often and will bring people together.”
Michael’s leadership and engagement were fueled by Mount Union’s unique environment. At a smaller school, he found the freedom to explore multiple interests without the pressure to conform to a single path. “You have an opportunity to do so much here,” he reflected. “That’s what makes this place special.”
His achievements extended beyond campus. In December 2024, Michael earned the Stark County Human Resource Association
(SCHRA) Scholarship, a prestigious award recognizing his dedication to the HR field. Introduced to the opportunity through a Society for Human Resource Management meeting, Michael applied and was selected, reinforcing his commitment to excellence in human resources.
This recognition was more than a financial boost – it was validation of his hard work and aspirations. “I can apply my knowledge to support organizational success and employee development,” Michael explained. His post-graduate goal is to become a human resource coordinator in the government or hospitality industries, where he hopes to make a lasting impact.
As Michael crossed the stage at graduation in May, he carried with him not only a degree and accolades but a deep sense of gratitude. “Thank you so much for all you have done,” he said, acknowledging the donors and supporters who made his journey possible. Their generosity didn’t just change his life – it empow-
2,837 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
• First NCAA Tournament game in program history
• OAC Regular Season title for the first time since 2017 and the second since 1970
• No. 1 seed in the 2025 OAC Tournament for only the second time in program history
• Jaired Lehman ’24, M ’25 and Alex Stegman ’25 – Programrecord two players named to the ABCA Rawlings NCAA Division III All-America teams
MEN’S BASKETBALL
• Fourth consecutive OAC Tournament Championship game
• Christian Parker ’25 – Second Team All-Region and First Team All-District
FOOTBALL
• NCAA-Record 23rd Stagg Bowl (most in NCAA Division III history, 13 more than second most)
• 33rd overall and eighth-straight undefeated regular season
• 35th overall and eighth-straight OAC Championship
WOMEN’S GOLF
• OAC Team Championship for the first time since 2019
• All-OAC honors for all five women for just the second time in program history with 2016 being the only other time
MEN’S LACROSSE
• Most conference wins in program history with six
WOMEN’S LACROSSE
• OAC Regular Season (8th) and Tournament Championship (7th)
• First Tournament Championship since 2019
• Advanced to the NCAAs for 8th time
• Katie Clark ’24 – USA Lacrosse All-American (first in school history)
• School record five players named to the IWLCA Great Lakes Region teams
• Abby Lindkvist ’25 and Katie Clark – first ever players to win
OAC Goalie and OAC Attacker of the year, respectively, in three straight years.
MEN’S SOCCER
• First OAC Regular Season Championship since 1998
• Carter Hancock ’24 – Second Team All-American (third athlete in program history to be a two-time All-American and first since 1985, school’s all-time leader in assists)
• Head Coach David Krems – first coach in program history to win back-to-back OAC Coach of the Years
SOFTBALL
• Second OAC Tournament Title in three years
• Third consecutive NCAA Tournament (first time in program history making it to three straight NCAA Tournaments)
MEN’S TRACK AND FIELD
• 13th straight and 41st overall OAC Indoor Title
• 14th straight and 41st overall OAC Outdoor Title
WOMEN’S TRACK AND FIELD
• 4th Straight and 11th overall OAC Indoor Championship
• Kenadee Wayt ’23, M ’25 – school record 23 All-Americans
MEN’S VOLLEYBALL
• Won the MCVL Regular Season and Tournament Championship
• NCAA Tournament for the second time ever
• Perfect 8-0 in conference (first time ever)
• Michael Bowler ’26 – AVCA Second Team All-American (program’s second ever)
WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL
• Heaven Bartell ’25 – first player in program history to earn four First Team All-OAC honors in a career, fourth All-Region award
MEN’S WRESTLING
• Bryce McCloskey ’27 – 2025 National Championships qualifier
WOMEN’S WRESTLING
• Lyndsee Young ’28, Karlie Stith ’28, and Emma Hanrahan ’28 – 2025 National Championships qualifiers
$192 MILLION TOTAL ENDOWMENT AS OF JUNE 30, 2025
4.5% 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
INVESTING IN OUR MISSION
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 $192,000,000.
$7 MILLION DISTRIBUTED FROM THE ENDOWMENT TO SUPPORT CAMPUS PRIORITIES IN 2024-2025
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 students have 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 2024-2025 fiscal year, 75 students received a total of $190,000 from the Student Emergency Fund.
The Dr. Dick Merriman and Dr. Margot Kellman President’s Rescue Fund offers tuition assistance to junior and senior students who find themselves in dire financial need and are
unable to continue their education at Mount Union. Financial assistance provided by this fund is given to students who are in good academic and social standing and desperately want to continue calling Mount Union “home.”
In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, a total of $20,000 was raised for the President’s Rescue Fund.
Thanks to your generous contributions to the Student Emergency Fund and President’s Rescue 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.
79
TOTAL NUMBER OF STUDENTS SUPPORTED BY THE PRESIDENT’S RESCUE FUND SINCE 2021
“Donor generosity has impacted my experience in many different ways. The Student Emergency Fund helped me and my family navigate a very difficult time after losing my father. The ongoing support from faculty, staff, and donors like you gave me purpose during a dark time. It’s the reason I am still able to continue my education on campus. Thank you.”
Kyle Kress ’26
National Security Intelligence Analysis and Political Science Double Major Avon Lake, Oh
$210K+
TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT GIVEN VIA THE PRESIDENT’S RESCUE FUND TO SUPPORT STUDENTS SINCE 2021
$1.5 MILLION CONTRIBUTED TO THE MOUNT UNION FUND IN 2023-2025
THE DIFFERENCE YOU MAKE
2,887 DONORS TO THE MOUNT UNION FUND IN 2024-2025
$79 THOUSAND CONTRIBUTED DURING THE 2024 VIRTUAL STADIUM SELL OUT
458 DONORS TO THE 2024 VIRTUAL STADIUM SELL OUT
Each year, gifts to the Mount Union Fund offer flexibility and can be accepted and quickly returned to our students where the support is needed most. By choosing to give back annually, donors help create exceptional futures for our students and support opportunities that prepare them for fulfilling lives, meaningful work, and responsible citizenship.
Building on this powerful tradition of generosity and impact, Raiders Give – Mount Union’s 24-hour day of giving – continues to unite our community each year in support of the Mount Union Fund and the students it empowers.
Our eighth annual Raiders Give took place on April 10, 2025. On that day, the Purple Raider nation – alumni, trustees, students, parents, faculty, staff, and friends – came together to support the University. Collectively, the generosity of 855 donors resulted in $413,441 of support during a 24-hour period!
A MATCH MADE AT MOUNT UNION
When Ben Utterback ’96 reflects on his time at the University of Mount Union, he remembers more than just the academics – he remembers the people, the personal attention, and the life-shaping experiences that helped launch his career. Now, Ben and his wife Torie are giving back in a way that blends their shared passions: by helping fund two new pickleball courts on campus through a generous matching gift to the Class of 2025 Senior Gift Project.
Ben was drawn to Mount Union by its small class sizes and individualized attention. His father, Dr. Geoff Utterback ’69, founded the family dental practice that Ben would later take over in 2012. He shared, “Seeing the success that my dad had in his dental career led me to know that Mount Union could be a nice piece to the overall puzzle of life.”
During his time on campus, Ben found mentors who left a lasting impression. He credits Dr. Len Epp, his pre-med advisor, with helping him navigate the decision between medical and dental school. Professors like Joel Collins and Steve Kramer also played key roles, offering courses in art history and psychology that broadened his perspective. “They helped shape me in ways I didn’t fully appreciate until later,” he said.
In January 2025, Ben sold Utterback Dental Group and launched Dental Sleep Solutions of Northeast Ohio, the region’s only dental office dedicated exclusively to treating obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. A Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and a recognized leader in the field, Ben has lectured widely and contributed to state and national dental sleep medicine initiatives.
Ben has remained closely connected to Mount Union, giving annually and returning to campus to lecture to pre-med and physician assistant studies students. “Those days are always so gratifying,” he said. “The students are brilliant, and their questions and engagement remind me
why I love giving back.”
Torie, a 1996 graduate of John Carroll University, shares his passion for education and wellness. The couple, who bonded over tennis, have recently embraced pickleball. “Torie now destroys me on the tennis court,” Ben joked. “So, we’ve transitioned to pickleball.”
When they learned the Class of 2025 was fundraising for a single pickleball court, they saw an opportunity to do more. Their matching gift expanded the project to two courts, creating more space for students to connect and recharge.
The Utterbacks hope the courts will become a vibrant hub for recreation and community on campus. “We want students to have a fun, healthy outlet to balance the demands of coursework,” Ben explained. “It’s about creating spaces where students can meet new people and enjoy their time at Mount Union.”
For Ben and Torie, philanthropy is a way to honor the institutions that shaped them and to ensure future students have access to the same transformative experiences.
“Small universities like Mount Union rely on alumni support to maintain their unique, personalized approach to education,” Ben said. “We’re proud to be part of that legacy.”
38 MEMBERS OF THE DIAMOND CIRCLE (LIVING AND DECEASED)
356 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.
614 MEMBERS OF THE HERITAGE SOCIETY (LIVING AND DECEASED)
1,857 MEMBERS OF THE FOREVER MOUNT SOCIETY (LIVING AND DECEASED)
PAYING IT FORWARD
The University of Mount Union recently received a significant bequest from the estate of Mary Ann (Maiden ’55) Stockum, who passed away at the age of 90 on November 20, 2024. Half of this extraordinary planned gift will benefit the Dr. Alfred E. Stockum and Mary Ann Stockum Endowed Scholarship; the remaining 50 percent is designated as “unrestricted,” to be used at the University’s discretion.
“Mary Ann meant so much to Mount Union, and I feel incredibly lucky to have gotten to know her over the years,” said Logan Aguiniga, vice president for advancement. “She was a truly beautiful person – warm, thoughtful, and always rooting for our students. Her gift is such a powerful reflection of who she was, and it will make a difference for generations. She and her husband Al’s legacy will live on in ways that would make them both so proud.”
“This estate gift embodies Mary Ann’s vision for the University’s future,” said President Greg King. “It will enable investment in innovation, create new opportunities, and continue to attract and support the brightest minds. The University is honored to be entrusted with this legacy and is committed to ensuring its lasting impact.”
Stockum graduated from Mount Union in 1955 and subsequently from St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1957. After working for three years in the emergency room at St. Luke’s, she went on to serve as a medical nursing supervisor and diabetes educator at The Ohio State University Hospital. Beyond this, she helped to develop the Central Ohio Diabetes Association’s camp program for children.
“Aunt Mary Ann had many fine attributes,” said her niece, Susan Ledford. “She was a woman of strong faith, believed in living a life of service, was a good listener, and believed in being well-rounded. Beyond this, she believed in the power of education and importance of living a modest lifestyle.”
That Mary Ann lived a “life of service” is best exemplified in her devotion to the Ohio State School for the Blind’s marching band. Not only did she support the band financially, but she volunteered her time to be a guide. “Each member of the band has a person that walks behind
them in order for them to march their formations on the field,” explained Ledford. “Aunt Mary Ann loved every moment of this experience and never expected anything in return. The band became her passion.”
Of course, Stockum also had a deep love and affection for Mount Union, the seeds of which were sown when she was in high school. One day while walking to school, one of her close friends mentioned that she planned to attend Mount Union. At that time, Mary Ann had never considered her future but thought that Mount Union might also be a good option for her. After discussing the matter with her parents, it was decided that she, too, would enroll.
“As I look at her life,” said Ledford, “that chance conversation with her high school friend was a seminal moment for her and one that shaped her entire future, leading to a wonderful and fulfilling life. It only took one person to mention Mount Union during a casual walk to high school that got the wheel turning.”
Perhaps this is why, during her entire lifetime, she always mentioned Mount Union to people she encountered, especially young people.
“Aunt Mary Ann continually provided literature to young people to encourage them to check out Mount Union,” said Ledford. “Even in the last couple weeks of her life, she had prepared a packet of Mount Union literature for a young lady to consider. She never forced the issue but always thought that Mount Union should be in the mix.”
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.
The generosity of our alumni and friends has been, and will continue to be, a driving force behind Mount Union’s commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience. Because of you, students have access to opportunities that change the course of their lives. From the scholarships that make a Mount Union education possible, to academic and co-curricular experiences that prepare them for meaningful careers and lives of impact and service, we are deeply grateful for your support. Your investment in our mission has strengthened our institution, touched the lives of students today, and will continue to shape Mount Union’s future for generations to come.
Gregory L. King ’89 President