FindlayMag Summer 2015

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S U M M E R 2015

CELEBRATING THE 10th ANNIVERSARY OF THE COLLEGE OF PHARMACY, pg. 4

TO THE BLUE AND BEYOND, pg. 19

DONOR IMPACT, pg. 24


FROM THE PRESIDENT

In this issue of FindlayMag, we focus on our College of Pharmacy and the celebration of its 10th anniversary. As in many professions, we’ve seen a significant change in the role of pharmacists in the past 10 years. This is a change that requires not only a new curriculum, but also a new “type” of student. As pharmacists begin to work more in tandem with physicians and other health care providers, they are taking on the roles of patient counselors and educators. Although our students must have a solid science background, the College of Pharmacy is also looking for those “soft” skills, like warmth, understanding, compassion and the ability to communicate important information concisely and simply. Our faculty and staff are seeing this paradigm shift in other programs as well. English majors must learn not only to write for printed publications, but also to create videos, design web pages and organize multimodal presentations. Aspiring teachers in our College of Education study brain-based learning and how to teach lessons online as well as in the classroom. Cybersecurity and big data are the focus of a new master’s degree we’ve just added to our list of graduate programs. As teaching and learning evolves, the learning environment must evolve as well. We know that 21st Century learners are collaborators and communicators. The University of Findlay needs to provide a facility that will enhance dynamic learning, where classroom designs can be modified easily. For this reason, I encourage you to support our campaign for the Center for Student Life and the College of Business building. Along with our board of trustees, faculty and staff, you can play a role in preparing our students for meaningful lives and productive careers.

Katherine Fell, President The University of Findlay

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4 Vol. 101, No. 2, Summer 2015 FindlayMag is published by The University of Findlay. It is mailed free of charge to alumni, parents and friends of the University twice a year. President Katherine Fell, Ph.D. Editor Caitlin Paynich Managing Editor Irene Martin Photographers Anne Risser Lee Amy DePuy Contributing Writers Barbara Lockard M’02 Joy Shaw Nick Thompson

S U M M E R 2015

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CELEBRATING THE 10th ANNIVERSARY OF THE COLLEGE OF PHARMACY

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TO THE BLUE AND BEYOND

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DONOR IMPACT

Stay in touch with UF!

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ON CAMPUS

You can keep up with the news at The University of Findlay on a monthly basis by subscribing to our enewsletters.

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CLASS NOTES

Director, The Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents and Friends Dee Dee Spraw ’00, M’07

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

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CELEBRATING THE 10th ANNIVERSARY OF THE COLLEGE OF PHARMACY T en years ago under the direction of Dr. Don Stansloski, the College of Pharmacy at The University of Findlay was founded with a vision to create a program that would continue to evolve with a changing profession. Students at UF build a strong foundation in a competitive field that’s gone from just dispensing medications behind the scenes to more and more one-on-one patient consultation. UF graduates are tackling this changing field from every angle. Abigail Clark, Pharm.D. ’13 is working in one of four pediatric oncology residencies for pharmacists in the country. Kyle Dresbach, Pharm.D. ’14, who joined the Air Force upon graduation, is considered a “credentialed provider,” a designation that civilian pharmacists are still pursuing through legislative efforts. Splitting her time between her ambulatory care practice at Blanchard Valley Medical Associates and offering real-world hands-on experience as an assistant professor at Findlay, Suzanne Lifer, Pharm.D. ’13 sees the pharmacy field changing every day. And recent graduate, Lauren Eichstadt, Pharm.D. ’15 will be a part of adding veterinary pharmacy to the curriculum for future pharmacists.

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DEBRA PARKER, PHARM.D. DEAN, COLLEGE OF PHARMACY

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COLLEGE OF PHARMACY

Parker Excited about Expanding Role of Pharmacists by Barbara Lockard M’02 “I’m excited. This is the closest we’ve come to getting pharmacists recognized by Medicare as providers of important health care services (beyond dispensing medication),” said Debra Parker, Pharm.D., new dean of the College of Pharmacy. Parker was referring to proposed federal legislation that would allow pharmacists to be reimbursed by Medicare for their services. “In the past, pharmacists have really been left out and not considered providers, while other health care fields were included,” added Parker. “For this reason pharmacists’ services aren’t covered, even though involving them has shown time and time again to cut health care costs and positively affect patient care.” Parker asserts that it’s not an effort to add another type of prescriber to the landscape, but to add a health care provider with the most training in medications—one that can critically analyze the most effective and least costly ways to treat patients when it comes to medications. Many times it’s better for a patient to take fewer medications. “Pharmacists are actually the most highly trained and qualified professionals in health care when it comes to medication management,” she explains. Colleges of pharmacy must be ready to meet the educational requirements of the expanded role of pharmacists. Beginning with the 2016-2017 academic year, pharmacy curriculum must include interaction with students in the other health professions. This has to be more robust than just scheduling a guest lecturer from another college. Students must actually work together and learn the aspects of other professions. “Pharmacy is the first health care field to have this mandate,” added Parker. “Our challenge is to find a way to do this as seamlessly as possible when it comes to working with the other health profession programs and their curricula. Everyone

involved will see the benefits and be better prepared to enter health care as a team player.” Parker believes that designing courses incorporating this collaboration is a top priority for her and her staff in the coming year. They will visit Roosevelt University in Chicago along with faculty from the College of Health Professions to observe Roosevelt’s model of collaborative learning. The new dean can speak from experience when it comes to working on a health care team. In addition to her role at UF, she maintains a clinical practice with St. Rita’s Health Management Group in Lima, Ohio, where she works collaboratively with a multi-disciplinary group of health professionals to provide patients with medication therapy management services. “Even though we’re still working with legislators, we’ve come a long way as a profession,” Parker muses. “Pharmacists can now give immunizations to those age seven and older. This has really opened up access to immunizations and made it more convenient for adults and children to receive them.” The University of Findlay selected Parker as its dean of the College of Pharmacy in late March 2015. She had been serving as the College’s interim dean since July 2014. Her selection followed a national search, after the retirement of Dr. Stansloski. Prior to her appointment as interim dean, Parker had served as an associate

professor of pharmacy practice since 2006 and as chair of the Pharmacy Practice Department since 2009. Her experience in practice as well as teaching make her well positioned to lead the College of Pharmacy into a changing and challenging future. With pharmacy headed in the direction of more patient interaction, will the College be looking for a different type of student? “I think the changes occurring in the field of pharmacy have caused us to look more at interpersonal and communication skills,” says Parker. “The students who apply to the program are changing, too. Traditionally, our Myers Briggs scores were overwhelmingly ‘introvert.’ I think that’s changed. We’re getting more outgoing and social students.”

Founding Dean’s Scholarship When Dr. Stansloski, who retired in 2014, founded the College of Pharmacy 10 years ago, he looked at programs at other institutions and chose the best parts to incorporate into the high-quality educational opportunity UF students experience today. Consider making a gift to the College of Pharmacy Founding Dean’s Scholarship Endowment Fund in honor of his impact on the program. This new scholarship will support fifth or sixth year pharmacy students who demonstrate leadership on campus, in professional organizations and in the community. Give online at give.findlay.edu or call 419-434-5184.

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SUZANNE LIFER, PHARM.D. ’13

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COLLEGE OF PHARMACY

Sharing Real-World, Hands-On Experience: Suzanne Lifer, Pharm.D. ’13 by Caitlin Paynich “It’s not just pill pushing and dispensing anymore,” says Dr. Suzanne Lifer, who earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from UF in 2013. Lifer sees the pharmacy field changing every day: “It’s really moving towards counseling and medication therapy management. Doctors are relying on us more and more to help make decisions. I can see the potential in the future for pharmacists to help physicians even more extensively, especially with the shortage of primary care doctors.” In her ambulatory care practice at Blanchard Valley Medical Associates, Lifer’s work is very hands on: “I love it. I love the patient interaction and the trust and responsibility I receive from the physicians at the practice. We don’t do any dispensing; it’s mainly monitoring and education.” Lifer works directly with patients as a clinical pharmacist. Doctors refer patients to her, and she works with them to manage their dosage of high-risk medications that require close monitoring. “Not only are we telling them about the medication, but we also have the ability to adjust doses and order laboratory work,” explains Lifer. Most frequently, she works with cardiologists who place patients in the anticoagulation clinic to monitor medications like Coumadin and Lovenox, both medications that thin the blood, when patients have clots or an irregular heart rhythm that puts them at risk for stroke. She also works with patients with heart failure to manage medications and help with diet and lifestyle changes and patients on medications that keep their heart in rhythm through their pharmacistrun antiarrhythmic clinic. “Patients on these medications need a ton of lab-work, chest X-rays, and other tests,” says Lifer. “Cardiologists rely on us to order and evaluate test results and then make the adjustments needed based on how the body is responding to the medications. The

patient is still seeing the doctor every three to six months for heart failure for example, but we can see patients a lot more frequently, work to keep them out of the hospital, and discharge them back to the physician if they are compliant and doing well.” Her work as a clinical pharmacist began when her professors at Findlay urged her to consider a post-graduate residency. “In my fourth year of pharmacy school, I really started to make connections with faculty members and develop a real understanding for drugs and how they work in the body. We did a lot of hands-on simulations and practiced counseling. Faculty, members of the community, or people with non-medical backgrounds would act as patients and give us that real-life experience that’s really valuable.” She chose a residency program with an emphasis in ambulatory care at Blanchard Valley Medical Associates that morphed into the position she has today. In addition to her ambulatory care practice, Lifer has returned to The University of Findlay to serve as the College of Pharmacy’s first shared faculty member. She splits her time each week and brings her unique experience into the classroom as an assistant professor of pharmacy practice. She teaches students in their fourth year of the program as part of the cardiology and endocrine modules as well as the capstone course for fifth year students to prepare them for advanced pharmacy practice experience rotations in different aspects of the field during their sixth year. “Both of my parents are teachers, so it was ingrained in me, and I knew I wanted to teach eventually,” says Lifer. “I can definitely bring back real-world experience to the students in my teaching because I’m teaching the same topics and skills I’m using when I interact with patients. This position is really the best of both worlds for me.”

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COLLEGE OF PHARMACY

The Expanding Role of Military Pharmacists: Captain Kyle Dresbach, Pharm.D. ’14 by Barbara Lockard M’02 For Kyle Dresbach, Pharm.D. ’14 the summer of 2014 was a whirlwind of career activity that made him appreciate his mentors and instructors in The University of Findlay’s College of Pharmacy. “I graduated, took my boards, then went right to Commissioned Officers Training for five weeks in Montgomery, Alabama,” recalls Dresbach. “I finished training on Friday and went to work as the pharmacist in charge at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas, on Monday.” One week after starting work, Dresbach found himself the only active duty pharmacist on base. The recent graduate was managing a civilian pharmacist, several technicians and about 30 volunteers. “It was really intimidating at first,” says Dresbach. “Now that I’m more than six months in, however, I’m getting a better grasp on my role in the pharmacy.” Dresbach feels his one-on-one time with UF professors gave him the confidence and skills needed for this steep learning curve. He added a special “shout out” to Professor William Ruse, his instructor for Pharmacy Administration. Ruse encouraged him to think about administration as a career focus and also

to expand his knowledge of pharmacy and business practices. It took Dresbach until his third year at UF to decide to join the U.S. Air Force upon graduation. Campus organizations had brought in different branches of the service to talk with students in the College of Health Professions and the College of Pharmacy. The offer was appealing. Apply for a scholarship and, if selected, the Air Force would pay the remainder of his tuition in exchange for a three-year commitment to serve. “Currently, the scholarship program is the only way to join the Air Force as a pharmacist,” he added. Dresbach credits the Air Force with increasing his “breadth” of knowledge. He feels he’s sharpened his decision-making skills and readiness training has given him the confidence to make decisions quickly when necessary. The Air Force pharmacist and his wife, Katie (Wilburn ’13), an occupational therapist in a local school system, stay busy in Wichita, but both have strong family ties to Ohio. He is from Chillicothe and she hails from Bellevue. They reflect often on their lives in Ohio and their time at The University of Findlay. There is still a familial tie to

the University, as Katie’s brother, Ryan Wilburn, is currently a business major and plays on the golf team. In his role in the Air Force, Dresbach is considered a “credentialed provider,” a designation that civilian pharmacists are still pursuing through legislative efforts. He oversees a Coumadin clinic and smoking cessation program and provides diabetic education. He feels the military has provided the opportunity to expand his role as a pharmacist when it comes to medication management and improving his patient’s health. He would definitely encourage other students to consider pharmacy as a career with one caveat: “I recommend that anyone interested in majoring in pharmacy do some shadowing during high school. It’s a great profession, but it’s six years of hard work. You really need to be sure it’s what you want to do.” He also encourages future pharmacy students to work toward a dual Pharm.D./MBA, or combine the pharmacy major with UF’s health informatics graduate program: “Students should pursue anything that will set them apart. Management positions are still readily available in many settings.”

Donning the White Coat: A Commitment to Patient Care Since the program began 10 years ago, nearly 200 alumni have donned their white coats at a ceremony representing a commitment to excellence in providing compassionate patient care. Thirdyear pharmacy students have the opportunity to choose a mentor to present them with their white coat. As part of Homecoming and Family Weekend, Oct. 16 through 17, 2015, the College of Pharmacy celebrates its 10th anniversary. Continuing the tradition, third-year pharmacy students will be welcomed to the profession with a white coat ceremony Friday at 6 p.m. with a reception to follow for students, parents, and alumni at Winebrenner Theological

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Seminary. “As part of the celebration, we invite alumni to participate as mentors and make a lasting connection with current students,” says Associate Professor Sandra Earle, Pharm.D. If you’re interested in being a mentor contact Earle at earle@findlay.edu. Homecoming and Family Weekend will also include several events that allow alumni to reconnect with their classmates from The University of Findlay. Events will include open houses with the colleges; a family carnival with food, games, inflatables, and fireworks; the Oilers football game; and the Alumni Association Breakfast honoring distinguished alumni and award winners.


CAPTAIN KYLE DRESBACH, PHARM.D. ’14

Photo courtesy of US Air Force

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ABIGAIL CLARK, PHARM.D. ’13

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Photos courtesy of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center


COLLEGE OF PHARMACY

Building Relationships and Balance: Abigail Clark, Pharm.D. ’13 by Caitlin Paynich “When patients come back for follow up and see me, their faces light up because I’m that familiar face that they get to see,” says Dr. Abigail Clark who is completing her second year residency at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Her position is one of only four pediatric oncology residencies for pharmacists in the country, and U.S. News & World Report ranks Memorial Sloan Kettering the number one hospital for cancer care in the nation. “The University of Findlay really set me up for two phenomenal residency experiences,” says Clark who completed her first year of residency in pediatrics on a more general level at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. “My professors encouraged me to complete publishable research and give poster presentations as a student, and it made a difference. The structure of the classes and the way they were taught really emphasized critical thinking, and my supervisors have told me that I’m ahead of past residents. I’ve achieved all my goals, and I felt really well prepared throughout this experience. I knew I wanted to find a pediatric oncology residency, and I’m honored and grateful for this opportunity.” At Memorial Sloan Kettering, Clark has been able to explore East Coast medicine, learning to understand different cultures and treatment techniques. Some of their patients are Orthodox Jews who observe Shabbat restrictions like turning electricity on and off or in this case being at home with their families on Shabbat even though they have cancer. “It’s pushed me to be a better practitioner,” says Clark. “Working with them has changed my view of treatment and allowed me to recognize there are different ways to treat different people.” Clark works with patients and their parents to make sure

they understand the medications and how to manage side effects. Additionally, she acts as the medication expert when she and the other doctors round on patients in the morning and leads lectures educating medical residents about the different drugs and their effects on the body. “Attendings look to me to answer any questions that come up about medication,” says Clark. Further, she explains that under New York law, while pharmacists can’t initiate therapy, they can modify and discontinue therapy as needed. “More and more practices are collaborating with pharmacists to provide counseling and monitoring of treatment,” says Clark, and she sees a continuing trend of pharmacists becoming a part of inpatient and outpatient settings as the profession continues to evolve. Clark first became interested in pharmacy through her interest in teaching. “Pharmacists are teaching people all the time,” says Clark. Being a pharmacist incorporates her love for

science, teaching, and kids. “Working with children who have cancer can be difficult, but for me it’s about the relationships I’m able to build with patients.” Clark developed her skills in building relationships as a mentor to younger students while working as a resident director at UF. “I helped them to make the transition from high school to college and was highly involved in resident life programing. It taught me to keep a balance between managing my studies as a pharmacy student and acting as a guiding force to residents regardless of major.” These are skills she’s found useful now as she’s managing an 80hour work week in her role as a pediatric oncology resident. Though she’s enjoyed her experiences in New York, once her residency completes she’s excited to start a new position in pediatric oncology and bone marrow transplant at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center where she completed her first residency.

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COLLEGE OF PHARMACY

A Horse of a Different Color... Blazing Trails in Veterinary Pharmacy: Lauren R. Eichstadt, Pharm.D. ’15 by Caitlin Paynich “I have definitely taken a different route than most pharmacy students,” says Dr. Lauren Eichstadt who graduated from the College of Pharmacy this spring. While at Findlay, Eichstadt divided her time between the pharmacy labs and the equestrian farms, a combination of experiences that led her to develop a passion for veterinary pharmacy. “With human medications, usually there are a number of clinical trials and other research that guide the treatment. What makes veterinary pharmacy interesting to me,” says Eichstadt, “is there are so many species of animals and disease states that we’re digging into any information that’s available whether it’s how the drug works in humans or animals and synthesizing that information to come up with a recommendation for treatment.” In her time at UF, Eichstadt made the most of her experience in both areas. She rode on the Western IHSA (Intercollegiate Horse Show Association) team and served as a graduate intern instructor at the English Equestrian farm, working with Jill Paxton, director of equestrian studies and equine management, to build curriculum. Her experience created a path that led the equestrian program to develop a dual degree program that allows doctor of pharmacy candidates to earn an associate’s degree in equine studies. “It’s a different mindset, and I really enjoyed being able to work with equine students and instructors.” She’s been showing quarter horses for many years, and in 2011 she won the Farnam All-Around Amateur title at the American Quarter Horse Association world championships, a prestigious title that along with her other accomplishments earned her a place in Sports Illustrated’s Faces in the Crowd, a regular feature

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highlighting standout amateur athletes. Growing up working with horses and with both her parents working as veterinarians, Eichstadt was highly exposed to the nature of working with animals. In studying veterinary pharmacy, “I can be part of that world and still find something unique to my own interests,” she explains. “Unlike human doctors, veterinarians are able to dispense many medications on their own, but it’s not cost effective for them to keep some medications in stock so they send their patients’ owners to community pharmacists. Some medications are only used for animals, but the majority of veterinary medications are human medications that are being used in animals.” With pharmacists being asked to fill scripts for animals, Eichstadt sees an opportunity to expose pharmacy students to veterinary medicine as part of their training. “Right now veterinary pharmacy isn’t part of the pharmacy board exam, but community and retail pharmacists are being asked to fill prescriptions for dogs, cats and other animals. As this continues it will have to become a part of the boards and the curriculum, and I’m hoping to be a part of that.” This summer she will be the first clinical veterinary pharmacy resident at Purdue University through their College of Pharmacy and College of Veterinary Medicine. “There are only a couple spots like this in the country, so I’m really grateful to be a part of their program,” she says. “I’ll be able to observe and offer recommendations in different sections of the veterinary program including dermatology and oncology. Part of my role will be to start developing a veterinary pharmacy elective for their pharmacy students.”


LAUREN R. EICHSTADT, PHARM.D. ’15

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COLLEGE OF PHARMACY

Two UF Pharmacy Professors Co-author Drug Information Textbook by Joy Shaw Human genome sequencing, the emergence of AIDS, direct-toconsumer pharmaceutical advertising proliferation—changes such as these have profoundly altered healthcare, as evidenced by the thickness and thoroughness of a recent textbook that two professors at The University of Findlay helped write. The 5th edition of “Drug Information: A Guide for Pharmacists” was published by McGraw-Hill in April, and is one of the most widely-used textbooks in pharmacy curricula. It is coauthored by Patrick Malone, Pharm.D., FASHP, the University’s associate dean of internal affairs and professor of pharmacy practice; John Stanovich, R.Ph., assistant dean, external programs at the University; Malone’s daughter, Meghan Malone, Pharm.D. ’11, BCPS, CACP, BCACP, a UF alumna and clinical pharmacist for Geisinger Health System in State College, Pennsylvania; and Karen Kier, Ph.D., MSc, BCPS, BCACP, director of assessment and professor of clinical pharmacy at Ohio Northern University. Malone said when the first edition came out in 1996, there was only one

other like it on the market, and it had last been printed in 1976. “Drug information was relatively new back in the 1980s and 1990s,” said Malone. But what does the phrase “drug information” mean, exactly? Malone said it addresses a pharmacist’s multifaceted skills that range from effective communication to proper information research to evaluation of information quality. Along with dispensing drugs, pharmacists, as their roles extend outside of the clinical realm, are now considered “information specialists” who must take into account variables such as how drugs could interact with other drugs, whether they should be administered in the first place, and whether they are cost effective. The decisions that some pharmacists, particularly those who aren’t even stationed in pharmacies, now make have the potential to affect millions, said Malone. “It’s about finding, evaluating and managing the information you need regarding drugs and pharmacy,” Malone explained. “It’s about knowing the function of drugs, the dosages, the side effects. It’s about how you set up certain

John Stanovich, R.Ph. and Patrick Malone, Pharm.D., FASHP 16 | FindlayMag | findlay.edu

services in a pharmacy, and how you compound or prepare a drug.” Overall, it’s about making sound determinations for individuals, hospitals, insurance companies and the like, and clearly conveying those decisions verbally and in writing for various audiences. “There’s an art to this, and that’s the extraction of information,” said Malone. You might think you can name the proper dose of ibuprofen to give to a 5-year-old, but who is the patient? Does he have any allergies? Is he on other medications that might adversely react?” “There’s a lot of literature out there that’s garbage,” said Stanovich. “You’re relying on someone else’s word, so you have to find out if they’ve conducted proper studies, followed scientific methods, done statistical analyses.” Pharmacists, like doctors, must contend with patients who are misinformed. He cited the erroneous connection between autism and immunizations as an example. With each edition, the book’s content has mirrored the pharmacy field itself. The first edition contained only one page about Internet searches. The latest edition is infused throughout with how best to use technology and has grown to 1,344 pages total. “Certain things don’t change. The latest chapter on statistics is very similar,” said Malone. “Other things have changed tremendously,” which is to be expected, he said. After all, health professionals years ago had touted the health benefits of cigarettes. “I don’t know that the pharmacy practice has changed so much recently, but what we have are better tools in the way of technology and therapy. Drugs are more targeted for specific diseases,” said Stanovich. The care scope is wider now, but quality and outcomes have improved, he thinks.


COLLEGE OF PHARMACY

Not Just “Counting Pills,” Pharmacists are Involved and Interested by Barbara Lockard M’02 “I tell my students that once they graduate, they can’t afford to just practice pharmacy. They need to be involved and to stand up for their profession,” said Tonya Dauterman, Pharm.D. At The University of Findlay, this involvement starts early. Dauterman, assistant professor of pharmacy practice and director of experiential education, travels with fifth-year pharmacy students annually to Student Legislative Day in Columbus. Sponsored by the Ohio Pharmacy Association (OPA), it’s a day when future pharmacists can meet with government officials to advocate for issues that will impact their careers. On March 24, 2015, Dauterman, Greg Reardon, associate professor of pharmacy practice and 45 students left Findlay at 7 a.m. headed for Columbus. Arriving at the state capitol at 9 a.m., they joined pharmacy students from other Ohio universities in a two-hour briefing session. The group had a visit from the Ohio Speaker of the House during lunch, and then started their advocacy journey. Since Findlay is located within the

districts of Sen. Cliff Hite, R-Findlay, and Rep. Robert Sprague, R-Findlay, the two elected officials conducted a large group meeting with the UF students. Students from other parts of Ohio met with representatives of their home districts. It was a full day. “I don’t believe that anyone cancelled, which is unusual for such a large number of meetings,” added Dauterman. “One student was so impressed by the opportunity to meet with her representative and be an actual advocate that she told me she might consider getting a law degree. Another fifth-year pharmacy student from the Dayton area met with Representative Niraj Antani, R-Miami Township, who is just 23-years-old. Seeing someone close to his own age as an elected official really made an impact.” “Politicians seem to be very pharmacyfriendly now,” said Dauterman. “They realize that pharmacists are involved in issues concerning drug abuse, medication management, safety and even economics. Many of our students, for example, will be working in areas that don’t fit our

stereotyped image of a pharmacist.” Dauterman recalled some recent graduates who are now working in areas that would not have existed ten years ago when the UF Pharmacy program began. “We have a graduate who has accepted a residency position working in veterinary pharmacy, and two who are employed by Renaissance Rx, a company that is involved in personalized medicine and pharmacogenomics (the study of genetics in drug response.)” The trip to Legislative Day is one way that UF pharmacy faculty is expanding the knowledge and skills of their students. With the role of pharmacists changing, UF is looking for students who not only have science and math skills, but the “soft” skills needed for patient care and consultation. “I think we’ve always sought out those types of students,” added Dauterman. “From the beginning, we’ve known the future of pharmacy, and have looked for the skills and personalities that fit what the future will demand.”

Hot Issues Affecting the Pharmacy Profession Each year, at Student Legislative Day, the Ohio Pharmacy Association encourages future pharmacists to advocate for certain issues that will positively affect the profession. HB 4: Naloxone Dispensing – This bill authorizes a pharmacist or pharmacy intern to dispense naloxone, a drug used to counter opioid effects, without a prescription to a person at risk of an opioid-related overdose. OPA believes that in addition to being the most accessible health care professionals in the community, pharmacists are well qualified for the task of combatting overdose deaths in the State of Ohio. HB 116: Medication Synchronization – This would better enable patients who take multiple medications to manage their drug regimen, allowing them to get their medications filled at the pharmacy on the same day. OPA believes that it is in the best interest of patients to have their medications synchronized. Synchronization increases adherence, which results in decreased hospitalizations. HB 127: Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) Regulation & Pricing – OPA is working with Reps. Tim Brown, R-Bowling

Green, and Jack Cera, D-Bellaire, on House Bill 127, which will create drug pricing transparency and help reduce gross underpayments to pharmacies. This legislation would finally create a regulatory structure for PBMs, and put them under the Ohio Department of Insurance. Consult Agreement Changes – As some pharmacists practice managing patient’s medication doses in a physician’s office under consulting agreements, new legislation is being re-introduced to eliminate many of the hurdles and red tape associated with many current consult agreements. This legislation would allow physicians and patients to utilize a pharmacist’s pharmacological expertise (with legal ease) to manage the drug therapy of a patient or patients with a chronic illness. Limited Pharmacy Networks – Pharmacies have been raising concerns about being left out of medically managed organizations’ pharmacy networks without being given the opportunity to participate. OPA believes that patients should be able to use the pharmacy that they know and trust most and that any public program should be prohibited from excluding pharmacies from participation. Summer 2015 | FindlayMag | 17


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Susan Young swimming with one of the dolphins at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Photo provided by Young.


Whale research trip leaves inspiration in its wake by Joy Shaw hey caught up with and coasted alongside earth’s largest mammals, endangered sea dwellers that can grow up to 100 feet long, have hearts the size of a Volkswagen Beetle and whose lifespans average about a decade shy of a century. It’s therefore no wonder that the blue whale research trip to Mexico, undertaken more than eight years ago by seven students and organized by a biology professor from The University of Findlay, strengthened their interest in nature and changed all of them for the better. The seven alumni including Susan Young ’07, Lauren Bisson ’08, Tonya Kieffer ’02, Molly (Smith) Niese ’10, M’11, Laura Sass ’07, Bretta Bauman ’07, and Brian Labuhn ’07, are now fanned across the nation and globe. Science and education factor heavily into all of their full and fascinating professional lives. Susan Young ’07 is a senior marine mammal trainer at Florida’s Clearwater Marine Aquarium. “I train bottlenose dolphins, North American river otters and African great white pelicans,” she said. “I also help in the rescue, rehabilitation and release efforts of our organization.” A recent career highlight was training dolphins for and playing a small role in “Dolphin Tale 2,” a movie that was filmed at the aquarium. It features an all-star cast ranging from Morgan Freeman to Ashley Judd, but it was Young who helped prepare and direct the dolphins, who were the biggest stars of the film. Summer 2015 | FindlayMag | 19


“I still tell stories about this whale trip,” said Young. She partially credits the experience with helping her to break into her career field. She said it also helped her grasp the importance of ecological data collection and testing. The UF group, which also included Dwight Moody, Ed.D., now a retired biology professor, was the first from the United States to work with Ecology Project International, a conservation nonprofit that conducts research voyages off the southern coast of Baja California Sur peninsula, in the Sea of Cortez. The area, protected from the dynamic Pacific Ocean to the west, serves as a nursery for blue whales, which give birth to calves that weigh as much as three tons. The species lives all over the world, but its existence is threatened by environmental changes and commercial fishing accidents. Scientists are therefore monitoring populations. It was the students’ responsibility to spot whales. When they did, they jumped into a small boat, called a panga, approached the animals as closely as they could, and watched as Dr. Jorge Urban, a marine biologist with Autonomous University of Baja California Sur, shot a hollow-tipped arrow into them to extract inch-long plugs of skin and blubber. “It was like a mosquito bite for them. They’re huge, so it really didn’t bother the whales much,” said Gwynne Rife, Ph.D., professor of biological sciences, education and chair of advanced professional programs in the College of Education. “It was a rush I cannot explain to see that large of an animal right next to you,” said Young. The sample testing revealed information about each animal’s nutrition, sex and more, and contributed to authentic population and environmental health studies that Urban continues to conduct. “It was actually the research trip that got me the job I have now,” said Lauren Bisson ’08. She grew up loving cephalopods—animals such as octopuses, cuttlefish and squid. Now, she is a wildlife biologist for an ecological consulting firm in Anchorage, Alaska. She has seen many Arctic animals, such as Pacific walruses, up close. “A polar bear growled at me once, and luckily a vehicle was nearby so I could hide,” she said. “I also work closely with the Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Recovery Team lead who is trying to save the endangered Cook Inlet beluga whales. Last summer I was out on a small boat and surrounded by over a hundred curious beluga whales. It was a beautiful experience,” she said. Tonya Kieffer ’02 described the 10-day February research adventure as “something dreams are made of.” It was also a solid lesson in detail-oriented work, which is a big part of her job as a wildlife recreation specialist and biologist for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. In addition, she co-hosts an outdoor television show, manages the community fishing program for the central part of the state, and runs a walk-in access program that helps the public gain private land agreements for hunting and fishing. “My responsibility is to educate and introduce people to Utah’s wildlife and encourage them to become stewards of the outdoors,” she said. The 2007 whale trip served a similar purpose, and not only for UF students. Crosscultural exchanges also ramped up the learning. Molly (Smith) Niese ’10, M’11 said the group swapped data and observations with Autonomous University students who had

“This experience offered them a lot of perspective and opportunity to feel some confidence in seeking out some of the more exciting things that they’re into. So I’m very proud of all of them,” said Rife.

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BLUE AND BEYOND

Photos from the trip by Brian Labuhn

recently conducted similar work with Urban. “When you talk about science, a big part of it is collaboration and getting different points of view and many forms of data, and so we got to really experience that collaboration,” she explained. The trip has even had an educational trickle-down effect over the years. Niese, who now teaches seventh and eighth grade science at Arlington High School, says she considers herself her students’ “captain for discovery.” The trip is “a nice example for the kids (her students) of what science research is,” she noted, and has helped legitimize her teaching. “Working with biologists

in the field in a beautiful area was something that I have carried with me and brought to my students in my teaching,” said Laura Sass ’07, who teaches biology and Advanced Placement biology at Garaway High School in Sugarcreek, Ohio. And then there were the other serendipitous moments that also made the journey, with its passport issues and lost luggage incidents, worthwhile. “There was one morning when we woke up and there were dolphins swimming around our boat,” said Sass. “We were able to jump in and swim with wild dolphins.” “I really enjoyed the cultural exchange and the food. It was Summer 2015 | FindlayMag | 21


my first experience being in another country and learning about its culture,” said Bretta Bauman ’07. She went on to serve in Niger, West Africa for the Peace Corps, living in a bush village mud hut with no electricity, running water or English-speaking residents. Last summer she began studies at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Brian Labuhn ’07 said one of his memorable highlights was “sleeping in a tent on uninhabited islands. Being that far away from creature comforts and technology was great,” he explained. Today, Labuhn works at Hartman Aviary, a parrot-breeding facility in Sunbury, Ohio, where he manages products for the pet bird industry. He also operates an environmental education program, Walnut Creek OLC, and is the community events coordinator for two pet stores in the greater Columbus area, which enables him to bring birds to schools, nursing homes and other places. “I teach my students about the natural history and adaptations of the animals I take to events,” he said. For Rife, a former dolphin trainer herself, the trip fulfilled for her a lifelong dream of “seeing the biggest animal on the planet.” She thinks that books she read as a child likely incited her curiosity. Her fascination with dolphins’ impressive echolocation ability led her to advanced marine science studies and to academia, she said. Along with being a professor of biological sciences and education, she now chairs the advanced professional programs in the College of Education. The seven former students are at different stages of their

careers, and understandably have different goals. Young would like to keeping working with animals but in a management position at the aquarium so that she can teach other trainers. Bisson said she has her dream job and intends to stick with it. Niese would love to one day take her students on a similar trip, and perhaps become a college professor. Labuhn intends to grow his environmental education program. Bauman aims to become a licensed vet and return to Niger to “help people feed themselves through increased livestock production and health.” Sass has applied to graduate school to pursue a master of science in biology. Kieffer intends to continue to educate and increase the public’s awareness of wildlife and wildlife-related outdoor activities. Lessons and memories of the whale trip, however, will always remain with them and inform their lives. It was galvanizing, all seven said, in that it either strengthened their interest in a science-related career, or it sparked it. The expedition also served as a courage booster. “They have all gone off to do some amazing things,” said Rife of the seven. “I think the trip did give them a nice perspective to move on. This experience offered them a lot of perspective and opportunity to feel some confidence in seeking out some of the more exciting things that they’re into. So I’m very proud of all of them,” she said.

A video featuring Niese and Rife explaining and reminiscing about the trip can be viewed here: newsroom.findlay.edu/to-the-blue-and-beyond

Visit these websites for more information on: Blue whales: www.nationalgeographic.com and www.worldwildlife.org Ecology Project International: www.ecologyproject.org Clearwater Marine Aquarium: www.seewinter.com

Photo from the trip by Molly Niese

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Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Recovery Plan: http://tinyurl.com/p9adn8u


BLUE AND BEYOND

“I really enjoyed the cultural exchange and the food. It was my first experience being in another country and learning about its culture,” said Bretta Bauman ’07.

Photos from the trip by Brian Labuhn

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DONOR IMPACT

Our Next 25 Years: At Home at UF As we reach the end of the Give Voice to Your Values Campaign, we look back at the impact of gifts from alumni and friends of the University over the past few years. Through your support, we’ve increased funding for scholarships, laboratories, learning spaces and faculty research, including over 180 new endowed funds. This has significantly enhanced the educational experience for UF students as they pursue meaningful lives and productive careers. Last fall many of us joined in celebrating 25 years as The University of Findlay. Together, we recognized the transformation that’s taken place. Enrollment has expanded to 4,000 students, and we continue to add new academic programs to respond to the changing professional world. Our students are budding community leaders through their work with service learning projects and internships that give them applicable experience as they prepare for their careers. Even through our progress and growth, the University has stayed true to educating our students in the dynamic and collaborative learning environment that has tied decades of Oilers together. As we begin the next 25 years as The University of Findlay, we’re excited to share our vision for the new building that will serve as a new home for student life and the College of Business. This will change the footprint and face of our campus as the first new building since the Koehler Fitness and Recreation Complex in 1999. The proposed Center for Student Life and College of Business building will help stimulate innovation inside and outside the classroom and transform our students into graduates ready to be ethical, productive members of a global society.

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With a central gathering area, dining commons, outdoor patio and green space, the new Center for Student Life will serve as a welcoming hub that is inviting to students, faculty, alumni and members of the community. It will change the way students learn, where they study and collaborate, and even where they eat and socialize. Most importantly, the new facility will offer all who come to the University a new place to feel at home on our campus. A significant addition to this campus with the power to create a paradigm shift in the way our students learn and interact deserves our continued attention. This spring, we share with you some of the progress toward this project with support from Congressman Mike and Pat Oxley and Pam Beall. We look forward to continuing this conversation with you and other members of The University of Findlay community.

In Oiler Pride,

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

Rendering of the new Center for Student Life and College of Business


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Giving Forward: UF Welcomes New Associate Vice President for Development “I’m a strong believer in the idea of giving forward. I earned my degree as a first generation student, and I recognize the impact higher education can make on a person’s life. By investing in higher education, we invest in future generations allowing them to reach their greatest potential and become leaders in today’s world,” says Michael Volan, who joined The University of Findlay’s Division of University Advancement as associate vice president for development this spring. When Volan toured the University he recognized “the great tradition of education at UF and the way the curriculum is adapting and changing to meet the needs of current and

future students.” Under the leadership of the vice president for University Advancement, Volan will manage the development staff, expand strategies in engaging and involving donors in the University’s capital campaign, and build collaborative working relationships with academic deans and volunteers that inform the fund development process. “Everything we do in University Advancement is intertwined whether it’s engaging alumni, promoting annual giving or cultivating leadership gifts,” explains Volan. “He brings to our team a strong commitment to higher education and a breadth of experience at both small and large institutions,” says Dr. Marcia Sloan Latta, vice president for University Advancement. Volan previously worked for RuffaloCODY, a fundraising solutions firm, as well as the University of Cincinnati Foundation, the Athenaeum of Ohio, Franciscan at St. John and Dan Beard Council of Boy Scouts of America. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Cincinnati, McMicken College of Arts and Sciences and has been recognized under the professional designation of Certified Fund Raising Executive since 2000.

Striding with Pride: Luke Levers ’51 and Pat Smith For Luke Levers ’51 and his wife Pat Smith, making The University of Findlay a part of their estate plans comes from a place of pride. “The University has made several strides forward,” says Luke. “We came back to campus for events and had the opportunity to see the farms, the Mazza Museum and how the campus has grown and changed.” While a student at Findlay College, Levers intended to play football but was injured early in his career and instead played on the baseball team and wrestled in the old gym that is now a part of the All Hazards Training Center. After graduating with a degree in theology and Greek, he went on to become an educator and a minister. For 45 years, Levers taught math and science and coached football and wrestling. Along with his wife, Pat, who taught mostly third grade

for 38 years, Levers understands the value of education and learning from dedicated faculty. “The professors really took the time to talk to you and show interest,” Levers remembers. When they planned their estate, Luke and Pat thought about the people and organizations that meant the most to both of them including family, relatives, Pat’s alma mater San Jose State University and The University of Findlay. Through a gift to the For the Love of Findlay bequest campaign, their estate will fund the Benjamin L. Levers and Patricia M. Smith Scholarship Endowment Fund to support wrestlers and other athletes at UF. “Athletes often study another field and leave school for professions in teaching and coaching like us,” says Levers. “We want to allow new students to continue to fill the void left behind us.”

If you’re interested in learning how you can make a difference in students’ lives through a gift in your estate plans, contact Jaclyn Schalk, Ed.D., at schalk@findlay.edu or 419-434-4794. Summer 2015 | FindlayMag | 25


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The University of Findlay Tradition: Congressman Michael G. and Patricia Oxley

Photo courtesy of Garth Francis

“When I was a kid my brother and I dressed up as Oiler football players for the Findlay College Homecoming Parade,” said former U.S. Congressman Michael G. Oxley. For him, his connection with The University of Findlay began with his father, Garver Oxley, who graduated from Findlay College in 1941. In celebration of this lasting relationship with the University, Congressman Oxley and his wife, Patricia, recently made a gift of $500,000 to support the new Center for Student Life and College of Business building. “UF deserves my support based on remarkable recent advances,” said Oxley. He’s seen the value of creating a central location for business students at his undergraduate alma mater Miami University, which dedicated its Farmer School of Business facility in 2009. “Bringing together all of the business classes and professors will create a sense of belonging for these students and draw top quality students to our business program. Further, the new facility will set a positive tone for the 26 | FindlayMag | findlay.edu

College of Business and its students going forward as they focus on business ethics and other important issues including the Sarbanes–Oxley Act.” The congressman co-authored the act in 2002, restoring Americans’ confidence in the capital markets early in the decade and creating a new accounting oversight board for publicly traded companies. Though he earned his degree at Miami and has led a distinguished, nationally recognized career, when asked if he considers himself an Oiler, Oxley said, “No question about it. I was wearing the orange and black at eight years old.” Over the years, Oxley has been highly connected and, in many ways, grew up with The University of Findlay. His father, Garver Oxley, introduced him to UF. When Garver Oxley attended Findlay College, he swam and was captain of the football team. Later in life he officiated at basketball and football games. He also served on the University’s Board of Trustees and taught classes in government, acting as a

knowledgeable resource for students based on his experience as Justice of the Peace for Hancock County, as Hancock County Prosecutor and in founding the law firm now known as Oxley, Malone, Hollister, Warren and Spaeth. In memory of Garver, Congressman Oxley, along with other members of the firm, established the Garver Oxley Memorial Scholarship to support varsity football players. “I always take the time to meet with recipients of the scholarship when I’m on campus,” said Congressman Oxley. “It gives me satisfaction to know my father’s scholarship is helping them with their education.” In addition to attending football and basketball games, Coach Jim Houdeshell would open the gym on Saturday afternoons for Mike and his friends to play basketball. He knew many of the University presidents personally and received honorary degrees from Findlay College as well as The University of Findlay. “Several people I knew through UF really influenced me in my life and in my career,” said Oxley. He found a mentor in Harold “Herk” Wolfe, a collegiate basketball standout in the 1950s whom he said assisted him with his political career. In 2010, Oxley became a member of the Board of Trustees of The University of Findlay and his connection to the University has continued to grow in the last five years. “It’s exciting to see the changes taking place on campus. It’s not your grandfather’s University anymore. The student body has quadrupled in size,” said Oxley. He’s seen changes in faculty and leadership over the years lead to a number of positive changes. “Dr. Fell has taken the University to the next level. It has become an essential part of the community. If I had to use one word to describe the University it would be tradition, an amazing tradition that continues to grow.”


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Garver Oxley ’41

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Congressman Oxley signs off on his gift at Winter College in Naples, Florida in February. Photo courtesy of Garth Francis

“Dr. Fell has taken the University to the next level. It has become an essential part of the community. If I had to use one word to describe the University it would be tradition, an amazing tradition that continues to grow,” said Oxley.

Garver Oxley with his teammates from the 1937 Frosh (Freshman) Football team: Front row: Gorman, Hall, Scasney, Sweigard, Johnson, G. Mazza. Duffield, Howes, Currie, S. Howard. Second row: Rhodes, Killen, Hosier, Humphries, Braedon, Daghir, Shank, Hassan, New, King. Third row: Edie, manager; Jalli, Gieb, Beganie, Fink, Oxley, Hetrick, Hatcher, Meinke, VanAllen, Wason, Hine.

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Creating a Sense of Place: Pam Beall ’78 Why give to the new Center for Student Life and College of Business building? For Pam Beall, University Trustee and College of Business alumna, the leadership and guidance of Professor Shiv K. Gupta of marketing and economics and also former accounting professor Kenneth Buchenroth gave her some of her most prominent memories at The University of Findlay. “As a student I really appreciated the experiences I had with my professors in the classroom and the charm of Old Main. Campus life really revolves around the buildings where students spend their time,” says Beall. The new Center for Student Life and College of Business building will create that same “sense of place and atmosphere for students,” says Beall, who is chairing the fundraising committee for the building. “The UF experience is

about learning to grow personally and professionally and developing lifelong friends. Having high quality facilities adds to that atmosphere.” Furthermore, as president of MPLX GP LLC and senior vice president of corporate planning, government and public affairs for Marathon Petroleum Company LLC, Beall recognizes what the new facility will mean to the campus and the Findlay community: “The energy of the UF campus stimulates the rest of the community as we look to hire students as professionals. The new building will raise the prominence and effectiveness of the College of Business as well as the University as a whole, allowing us to compete more effectively with other highquality institutions.”

Interested in making a gift to support the new Center for Student Life and College of Business building? Contact University Advancement at universityadvancement@findlay.edu to learn more about how you can contribute to the sense of place students experience at The University of Findlay.

Conceptual renderings of the new Center for Student Life and College of Business 28 | FindlayMag | findlay.edu


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Set to Start her Career: Sierra Hutton ’15

“The University of Findlay has set me up. When I leave, I know I’m going to get a job that I want,” said Sierra Hutton last fall at the beginning of her senior year. “When I talk to contacts and potential employers, they recognize that I already have the three to five years of

experience they require.” Hutton recently completed an internship in development at the Make-A-Wish® Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana chapter securing donations for their silent auction. She graduated this spring with a degree in sport and event management from the College of Business and started a position at Marilyn’s Lifelong Educational Center in Findlay. Before her internship with Make-AWish®, she interned for the Awakening Minds Art organization in Findlay, coordinated banquets at Kalahari Resorts and made connections through an internship with the Findlay-Hancock County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Our professors push us to be involved so we’ll be prepared when we leave,” said Hutton who also had the opportunity to make networking connections through class speakers and volunteering. Last fall, she led the charge on campus for Circle K’s annual Dance Marathon raising more than $22,000 to support

Mercy Children’s Hospital in Toledo, Ohio compared to around $2,000 in past years. “This year we wanted to really raise awareness among students and help them to see who their money affects and understand a movement bigger than themselves,” explains Hutton. She also contributed to the Senior Class Gift project which established a Findlay Fund named scholarship to support a current student. Through the variety of on-the-job experiences she was involved in through her degree program as well as volunteering for on-campus programs, Hutton determined how she will move forward to start her career: “I want to be a fundraiser for a cause I’m passionate about.” Hutton also recognizes the need for a new Center for Student Life and College of Business: “As much time as we spend on campus as students, we want to be in a space where we feel comfortable, a space that’s bright and open as well as relevant to the time we’re living in.”

Boosting Student Confidence “Some day in the future I hope I can give back to students in the same way,” said Alex Moser, a computer science and math major and one of the student speakers at the Scholarship Day Celebration Luncheon this spring; other student speakers included Jacob Clagg and Allison Dilbone. The annual luncheon brings together scholarship donors and scholarship recipients, allowing donors to see the faces that benefit from their support and allowing students to reflect about what receiving a scholarship means to them. “Students take this opportunity to connect with successful alumni, friends and other contributors to the University, and donors see the impact their support has on students’ lives, said Chairman of The University of Findlay Board of Trustees A.R. Charnes who also spoke at the event. In the 2014-15 fiscal year, The University of Findlay awarded 715 unique endowed scholarships to 483 students. Receiving scholarships takes some of the financial burden off of students and their families and gives students the confidence to take advantage of all the opportunities available to them at Findlay and beyond.

Hear from students about how scholarships are impacting them in a video: findlay.edu/scholarship-impact

Summer 2015 | FindlayMag | 29


ON CAMPUS

Through the Arch: Graduates Step into Their Futures at Commencement 2015 A total of 949 undergraduate and graduate students graduated from The University of Findlay this spring. Through academic growth, transformative experiences and a supportive community, graduates walked through the arch ready to improve the world in their own ways. The University of Findlay Class of 2015 includes many outstanding graduates. Among them are Timothy Sherman, Emily Stewart, and Seth Ervin, who were recognized by faculty and staff. Timothy Sherman, who majored in multi-age theater education and theater performance, starred in numerous plays at UF, as well as acted, directed, choreographed and stage designed for on- and off-campus productions. Success, Sherman believes, is all about making friends and contacts, and pursuing ideas, even the crazy ones. “Let whatever you love drive you, and don’t let a ‘no’ answer stop you.” Emily Stewart, who majored in environmental, safety and occupational health management, became the designated hitter for UF’s softball team, and found a catalyst for her passion for the environment and goal of making

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a difference. After completing three internships with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Northwest District Office, Marathon Petroleum Corporation’s corporate office in Findlay, and the BP Husky refinery in Oregon, Ohio, she now works full-time as a safety advisor at the BP refinery. Seth Ervin, a forensic science major, landed a competitive internship last fall in Washington, D.C. with the U.S. Department of Forensics. “The relationships and the networks you create are the most important aspects of becoming a professional,” said Ervin. “The people you meet are willing to help you reach your goal, and reaching some goals are very difficult to do alone.” Sherman, Stewart, Ervin and their graduate and undergraduate classmates had the opportunity to hear from two “self-made” professionals at the University’s Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 2. Although they work in vastly different realms, the speakers are both examples of the drive and perseverance needed to launch and market a successful business.

President of talent acquisition solutions for ADP, Terry Terhark ’06, addressed graduate students. Terhark is the founder and former CEO of The RightThing, LLC, a recruitment process outsourcing firm, which was acquired by ADP in 2011. Starting his bachelor’s degree after he had built and sold a successful company, Terhark is a graduate of UF’s College of Business with a major in business management. Later that day, the youngest recipient of the JFK New Frontier Award, Veronika Scott, 25, spoke at the undergraduate ceremony, returning for her third speaking engagement at UF. Earlier this spring, she addressed students, faculty and community members as part of the Heminger Business Ethics Lecture Series and was also the keynote speaker at the University’s first annual Teaching Symposium. Scott is the founder of The Empowerment Plan, a nonprofit that employs mostly parents from Detroit’s homeless shelters. Her “product” is a three-layered winter coat that converts into a sleeping bag or a bag for carrying other items.


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Houdeshell and Strahm Receive Honorary Doctorates The University of Findlay awarded honorary degrees to James D. Houdeshell and Richard “Dick” Strahm at Commencement on May 2. President Katherine Fell nominated Houdeshell and Strahm, and the University Board of Trustees approved the awards. A 60-year employee of the University, Houdeshell became an assistant professor, athletic director and head coach of football, basketball and baseball in 1955. He went on to hold many other positions, including dean of students and chair of the Division of Teacher Education. Houdeshell had primary responsibility for adding one of UF’s first graduate programs, the Master of Arts in Education and helped develop the health and physical education major, along with the Equestrian Studies Program. A graduate of Findlay College, Houdeshell

received a Master of Arts in Education with a minor in school administration from Bowling Green State University and a Doctor of Physical Education from Indiana University, Bloomington. A standout athlete as an undergraduate, Houdeshell was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1975. As a member of the UF faculty/staff, he was president of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics in 1990-91, president of the NAIA Athletic Directors Association, 1981-82, and received the Athletics Administrator of the Year (Charles Morris Award), 2001-2002. Dick Strahm signed on at The University of Findlay as head football coach in 1975. He took the Oilers to the NAIA playoffs 12 times and logged 22 winning seasons out of 24, retiring from coaching in 1999. At age 81, Strahm is

one of the oldest living members of the College Football Hall of Fame and is the only coach to win the NAIA National Coach of the Year Award four times. Prompted by friends to memorialize his football anecdotes and experiences on and off the field, Strahm worked with writer John Grindrod to publish his biography, “Just Call Me Coach,” in 2008. Along with challenges on the football field, Strahm has also met with personal challenges, including four heart attacks, a stroke and cancer. He considers his “greatest victories” to be those over his illnesses. He served as honorary chair of the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk in 2007 and received the University’s Arch Award for more than 25 years of service in 2009.

Stay connected to all the latest happenings at The University of Findlay. Visit newsroom.findlay.edu or sign up for ArchLink, our monthly email newsletter at findlay.edu/newsletters. Summer 2015 | FindlayMag | 31


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The University of Findlay and Cleveland Browns Announce Partnership To help prepare students for careers in the sports industry, The University of Findlay and the Cleveland Browns announced a unique partnership this spring. The University of Findlay & Cleveland Browns Partnership for Student Success will improve students’ ability to succeed in the sports business by combining Findlay’s academic leadership and Browns staff’s industry experience and jointly applying both to the educational curriculum in and outside of the classroom. Conversations about the partnership began when Joanna Sabato ’07, an alumna of the marketing program within the College of Business, was working as manager of corporate partnerships for the Cleveland Browns. “There was a real focus on finding a partner in the education category where the Browns could extend their brand outside of Cleveland and find students to fill their internships,” said Sabato. “Students would then have the opportunity to apply what they were learning in the classroom in a real-life setting.” Along with the Browns leadership, Sabato worked with President

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Katherine Fell, Ph.D., and faculty she knew at Findlay to develop this one-of-akind partnership. “We are very pleased to be partnering with the professionals at the Browns. In 2012, the campus came together to develop a strategic plan that included providing best-in-class resources and experiential learning opportunities to our students. This partnership is one of the ways we are meeting those goals,” explained Fell. “This partnership is about two strong organizations coming together to build a pathway to careers in the sports industry, enhance student experiences and give Findlay students the edge needed to get into this competitive career field.” “This partnership with The University of Findlay provides us another great opportunity to extend our commitment to improving education in Ohio and helping prepare young individuals for future success, whether that is in sports or other fields,” said Browns President Alec Scheiner. “We also look forward to learning from The University of Findlay and providing opportunities to their students to supplement their academic

studies with applicable sports business experience.” Incorporated within the program is The Browns Edge Partnership, which provides opportunities for UF students to be mentored by professionals in the Browns organization, networking events and skill-building opportunities. Through those associations, Findlay students will have an increased familiarity, exposure to the organization and experience to be considered among Browns internship candidates. “The chance to learn from professionals at the Browns is a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Haley Gray, sophomore marketing and sport and event management major at Findlay. “Ultimately, this is skill development, and the opportunities that the University will be able to offer students in Cleveland are unrivaled. I know that with the passion I have for sports marketing and hard work combined, UF will be able to offer me a real shot, thanks to this partnership.” For more information about the partnership visit Findlay.edu/brownsedge.


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Mazza Museum On the Road This summer The University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum sends exhibits to the Toledo Museum of Art and Columbus Museum of Art, exposing audiences outside Findlay to their collection of more than 9,000 original illustrations. Select Mazza Museum pieces that portray pet cuteness have been on display since March and will continue to be displayed at the Toledo Museum of Art through July 5. Presented by Marathon Petroleum Corporation, “Best in Show: Animal Illustrations from the Mazza Collection” includes 54 illustrations from books dating from the 1930s to the present. Clifford the Big Red Dog, a drawing of Walt Disney’s Pluto and more favorites are delighting crowds of all ages. Additionally, a hands-on section allows children to make their own drawings, create a storyboard and play an “I spy” game that challenges visitors to search for other animals in other galleries within the museum. On loan to the Columbus Museum of Art, 32 works from the Mazza’s collection will showcase the art of award-winning picture books from the 1950s to the present, intriguing visitors of all ages. On display through Sept. 6, 2015, “Page Turners”

brings together original art from the Mazza Museum. The books and the art inside have been honored with prestigious awards and medals from many organizations in the United States, Great Britain and Denmark including the American Library Association, Caldecott, Newbery and the Mazza Museum. Depicting historical events and figures, the art includes folktales from India, Japan, Kenya and the United States that often have important messages about human nature; and songs, poems and stories that inspire and entertain. Several books are recipients of awards honoring African-American and Latino/Latina authors and illustrators who have created outstanding books for children. The artwork at Mazza reflects a variety of media, techniques and styles that combine with the author’s words to create picture books that children and adults treasure long after the last page is turned. Picture books encourage children to increase their reading and vocabulary skills, stimulate critical and imaginative thinking, support inter-generational and peer socialization and develop an awareness and love of art.

Your Participation Matters! Your gift to The University of Findlay, no matter the amount, supports an education that leads students to meaningful lives and productive careers. Every year, college rating systems use alumni giving participation rates to calculate rankings that affect enrollment, and corporations and foundations evaluate it when granting funds. This year, make your participation count! Our fiscal year ends July 31. Contact us at 419-434-5856 or give online and make a difference to students today!

GIVE ONLINE AT GIVE.FINDLAY.EDU

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ON CAMPUS

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Harold “Puck” Rowe served as UF’s Dana Chair Harold R. “Puck” Rowe, Sr., a Columbia Gas of Ohio, Inc. retiree and instrumental community service worker, served as The University of Findlay’s Dana Chair for the spring semester. Established in 1991 by the Dana Corporation, the College of Business Dana Chair and Scholar Program provides an opportunity for business students to benefit from an executive in residence who has worked in the field. Rowe, a Findlay resident who attended Ohio University and Bowling Green State University, was employed at Columbia Gas for 40 years, where he worked in budgeting, human and employee relations, public relations and community

relations. Community has always been important to Rowe, who has served on numerous boards and committees. He was on the executive committee and was chairman for the Findlay Community Development Foundation; was the chair for Findlay Family YMCA’s capital campaign, which raised $6.8 million to renovate the downtown branch; and has served in leadership positions on boards and committees for United Way of Hancock County, Junior Achievement, the Findlay Chamber of Commerce, Community Improvement Corporation and many more organizations. Chosen by the College of Business faculty, 11 students within the college were also named as Dana Scholars in recognition of their academic and leadership skills. The Dana Scholars include: Erica Kaye Arthur from Findlay; Jacob Thomas Brown, Van Buren; Jordan Garcia, Fremont; Meredith E. Hoops, Napoleon; Rocky Hill, Connecticut; Dylan Kaufman, Millersburg; Laura Penza, Norwalk; Andrea Roach, Littleton, Colorado; Amy Schroer, Leo, Indiana; Nathan Schutz, Pandora; Shelby Warner, Elida; and Morgan Watkins, West Bloomfield, Michigan.

Oiler Build: Habitat for Humanity Home to Benefit Mother and Daughter Julie Merrin and her nine-year-old daughter, Rachel, got the surprise of their lives when it was revealed to them that they are the family selected for a Habitat for Humanity home sponsored by The University of Findlay. In her blog, Merrin described it as God “sneaking up” on her. “After well over a year and a half of not being certain where Rachel and I would live long term, God has finally given direction,” she wrote. Merrin, a former missionary, is an administrative assistant for Findlay City Schools. The Merrins, along with about 30 UF Habitat for Humanity members, faculty, staff and alumni, broke ground on the project in April. Building will begin in August on a lot selected in the West Park neighborhood near the Findlay Airport. The dedication is planned for October. A total of $75,000 was raised during the past six years for “The Oiler Build.” That includes $20,000 in three matching

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grants from Habitat for Humanity International. UF Habitat students are collaborating with Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County on all facets of the project, from construction planning to volunteer coordination. Crystal Weitz, the University’s director for service and community engagement and the advisor

for the University’s Habitat chapter, characterized the project as “a dream come true,” not just for the family, but for all of those involved in bringing it to fruition. For more information about the project, contact Weitz at 419-376-9171.


Highlights from the 2015 Symposium for Scholarship and Creativity With more than 300 participants showcasing their projects, often concurrently, visitors to the 2015 Symposium for Scholarship and Creativity, held April 17 at The University of Findlay, had plenty of decisions to make. Davis Street Building hallways were packed with people waiting to listen to oral presentations offered in 30-minute increments, poster presenters had crowds flocking to them in Croy Gymnasium, alumni speakers had words of wisdom to convey, and awards ceremonies recognized several. Check out some of the highlights: • So do pigs thrive listening to Pearl Jam, or do they gain more weight with Brahms? Animal science students Josh Pitters and Sarah Wallace assumed that porcine music fans would be more content and add pounds with classical music compared to heavy metal or even blessed silence. Apparently the data supported their hypothesis. Rock on at your own risk, pork producers! • She may not have been born when Yasgur’s Farm transformed into a cultural icon, but student, Sabrina Braunlich, gave an oral presentation on Woodstock (without musical accompaniment!) Braunlich took a deeper look at the music festival, concluding that it was more than “sex, drugs and rock and roll.” Her literature review revealed that Woodstock exposed people to new experiences, while allowing them to stand up for their beliefs. • “I’ve always loved elephants,” said biology major Katie Mehlow, “that’s why I chose this topic.” Mehlow took on African elephant poachers in her presentation that included information on the political and socioeconomic factors that influence poaching. Conservationists predict that African

forest elephants could be extinct by 2024. It’s passionate individuals like Mehlow who make a difference. She plans to attend graduate school, focusing on environmental policies and issues. • “Finding the Missing Pieces,” (pun intended) was the title of Tabatha Clawson’s presentation on Jack the Ripper. Admitting a fascination with the notorious man in black, Clawson said that her oral presentation is just a part of a project that she’s completing for UF’s London Scholars Program. She hopes the presentation will generate ideas for future research while she studies in England early this summer. Tabatha is pursuing a Master of Arts in Rhetoric and Writing. • Remember “Moneyball”? Mathematicians Justin Eitner and Kristen Hauser have taken the concept to football by predicting the success or failure of quarterbacks drafted into the NFL, based on pre-selected college statistics. We “predict” that Eitner and Hauser will parlay their math abilities into profitable careers. Maybe in the sports industry? • Who doesn’t love a good robot? A maze-running robot demonstration

offered a preview of a public seminar called “An Hour of Code” that was recently held. The robots, programmed by Heather Beck, Mitchell Campbell, Nolan Connell, Cody Frick, Alex Menteer, Chris Reaper and Joshua Robinson, use sensors which allow them to follow a line by constantly scanning left and right. • UF’s LGBT+ community, through its organization, United, hosts events to promote tolerance, inclusivity and safety. In their oral presentation, United leaders Sydney LeVan and Lexus Renner incorporated moments of silence to recognize the Day of Silence being observed nationally that day to make people more aware of the silencing effect of anti-LGBT bullying, harassment and discrimination. • Demolitions of vacant and abandoned Lima homes, paid for with state funding, are reducing the crime rate, improving residents’ perceptions about their community and making people feel safer. But Timothy Lafferty’s research also found the demolitions are having a negative effect on the city’s coffers because property ordinance violators are disappearing and not paying fines.

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CLASS NOTES IN MEMORY Doris M. Saul ’42 died on Jan. 28, 2015 at age 94 in New Hope, Minnesota. Raising her family in Bay Village, Ohio she was employed by the Bay Village School System for many years. She is survived by her daughter, Diane Wells Saul, and son, John Saul. Ruth (Hudson) Frick ’50 died on April 1, 2015 at age 86 at the Glen of Willow Valley Retirement Communities in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Ruth’s husband was former UF president Ivan Frick, and Ruth served as the First Lady of Findlay College from 1964 to 1971 and later of Elmhurst College from 1971 to 1995. She was also a member of American Association of University Women for many years. In the earliest of her adult life, Ruth, was an elementary and high school teacher. Ruth and her husband, Ivan, had three children, David, Daniel and Susan, and five granddaughters.

Gail F. Evans ’50 died on Jan. 29, 2015 in Beaver, Pennsylvania. After graduation from Findlay, he served in the military during World War II where he received three battle stars, including the Battle of the Bulge. He was also a retired chemist of 33 years from ARCO Chemical Company located in Monaca, Pennsylvania. He was married to Martha Beach Evans for 66 years, and they raised four children and several grandchildren. Theodore J. “Ted” Rutherford died on Feb. 14, 2015. After graduating from Green Springs High School, Ted attended Findlay College but later graduated from Terra Community College. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and Lions of Green Springs. Ted was the mayor of Green Springs for three terms and was awarded the Citizen of the Year of Green

Springs. Surviving him are his wife, Barbara, and three sons, Timothy, John and Stephen. LeAnn (Clark) Hotz ’69 died on Jan. 18, 2015 in Papillion, Nebraska. During her time at Findlay College, she was involved in theater and was a member of the concert choir. After graduation, Hotz spent many years as a retail buyer and manager for several stores in Findlay and Toledo. She was the widow of George Hotz and is survived by her three sons: Chad, Adam and Eric. Victor Arredondo ’01 died on March 22, 2015 at Wyandot Memorial Hospital. Raised in Findlay, Victor graduated from Findlay High School and The University of Findlay with degrees in psychology and criminal justice. He then went on to attend Ashland Theological Seminary.

He was a United States Army veteran and coach of Upward basketball and Carey little league baseball teams. He was also the area coordinator of Flat Rock Homes. Surviving are his wife Emily and five children: Trinity, Cecilia, Tomas, Lillian and Philip.

The Harold (Herk) ’54 and Patricia (Gohlke) Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents and Friends would like the opportunity to greet you at one of our upcoming events in your area. Check out all our upcoming events online: www.findlay.edu/events We look forward to connecting with you!

CLASS NOTES 1970s

Sandra (Newcomer) Graham ’76 has a new position at OMF International as the guesthouse manager located in Singapore. Her husband, Donald, also works at OMF International. During her time at Findlay, Sandra was involved with the UF band and choir. The family resides in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Ann (Remsen) Minckler ’76 is the current assistant director of grants and special projects for the Kent School District in Kent, West Virginia. Ann has two adult children, Kenneth and Jennifer. During her time at Findlay, Ann was involved in the band and was a photographer for the yearbook and newspaper.

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Jeffrey D. Dean ’77 is the owner and audio engineer of Dean Sound LLC located in Findlay where the family resides. During his time as a student, Jeff was a member of the football and wresting teams, as well as WLFC radio station. He and his wife, Jill, have three adult children, Joshua, Jenalee and Jordan.

1990s

1980s

Amy Harber ’96 will guest star in the cable TV show “Diagnosis Unknown” and co-star in “Unknown Suspects” in 2015. She returned to Ohio recently to walk in the Fashion Angels charity fashion show in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Neil R. Cole ’87 and his wife, Tonya, have four children, Joshua, Jacob, Zachariah and Hannah. During his time at Findlay, Neil was a part of the football team and a member of Theta Chi Fraternity. The family lives in Sarasota, Florida.

Michelle (Homan) Tucker ’90 has a new position at Barrien Springs Public School as the ESL and GrapeSEED teacher. She and her husband, David, are proud to announce the birth of their first grandchild, Kristina Marie. The family resides in Berrien Springs, Michigan.

Jennifer (Bales) Alber ’98 lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband, Peter, and her oneyear-old son, Elijah. Jennifer

completed her bachelor’s degree in equestrian studies. Rachel (Mueller) Clark ’99, M’00 and her husband Robert live in Goshen, Ohio. She is currently a science and math teacher at St. Bernadette School in Amelia, Ohio. Theresa Ann Foley-Reed ’99, M’03 was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, Tau Omega Pi and the McBride Society during her time as a student at UF. She and her husband, Wayne, have a total of 10 children, four biological and six adopted. The family resides in Findlay. Jed Thorp ’99 has a new position at the Rhode Island Public Radio as the membership manager


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located in Providence. During his time at UF, he was involved with Student Government Association, Theta Chi Fraternity and was the student representative to the Board of Trustees. He graduated with a degree in political science.

2000s

Aaron J. Dewey ’00 lives in Concord, North Carolina with his wife, Lisa, and their fiveyear-old son, Jacob. Aaron is a graphic designer for the Charlotte Hornets in Charlotte. During his time at UF, he was involved with the hockey and cross-country teams. Sara (Frailey) Stanek ’01 and her husband, Justin, welcomed their first child, Adam Keegan, on Dec. 8, 2014 to their home in Normal, Illinois. Jill Schroeder M’02 has a new position at Cooper Tire and Rubber Company as a Six Sigma black belt. She and her husband, Grant, live in Findlay with their 13-year-old son, Grant, and their eight-year-old daughter, Olivia. Jill received her master’s degree at UF in organizational behavior.

Mark Inkrott ’02 is the current vice president of business development and sports marketing at Dairy Management Inc. During his time at UF, Mark was a member of the football team and the assistant editor of The Envoy, a student-run writing club. He currently lives in Chicago, Illinois. Stacey (Endicott) Raspitzi ’02, M’05 is the assistant principle at Pinellas Country Schools in Florida. She and her husband, Paul, live in Riverview, Florida. Stacey received her bachelor’s degree in education and her master’s degree in education leadership. Wayne Wilcox ’03 received a Federal 100 Award, which is presented to government, industry and academic leaders who have performed critical assistance on how the federal government acquires, develops and manages IT, and who have transformed or accelerated their agency’s mission. Wayne is the current chief of police at Armstrong State University in Savannah, Georgia. He was one of just 100 people selected for this award, and was the only recipient from an academic institution.

Jan Zerbe ’70 and Karen Fritz attend a reception in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Scott S. Grant ’04, M’06 and his wife, Elizabeth, are celebrating the birth of their twin boys, Paxton Conrad and Knox Steven, born on Oct. 10, 2014. Scott is an assistant professor in business at The University of Findlay. During his time at UF, he was involved in the club ice hockey team. Chad ’05 and Jenilee (Baker ’07) Brenneman are excited to announce the birth of their first child, Brooklyn Mae, who was born on Dec. 31, 2014. Jenilee is the specialist medical laboratory technician for Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Chad is the site health, safety and environmental program leader for Proctor and Gamble in Lima, Ohio. During her time at UF, Jenilee was a member of the Dance Team. Emily (Loy) Clark ’05, M’09 and her husband Stephen Clark ’04 are excited to announce the birth of their new son, Andrew K., born on Oct. 23, 2014. Michael S. Kinder ’05, M’09 has a new position as the global regulatory authoring specialist at 3E Company located in Canton, Ohio. He and his wife, Kati,

CLASS NOTES

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have two daughters, Kaydence, age seven, and Michaela, age six. The family resides in Homerville, Ohio. Erica (Goodwin) Holland ’06 is an account manager at the American Red Cross in Toledo, Ohio. She and her husband, Steve, have two children, a threeyear-old daughter, Grace, and a one-year-old son, Ben. Maria (Smith) Lewis ’06, M’07 and her husband, Heath, are welcoming the birth of their new son, Ayden Norbert, who was born on Dec. 4, 2014. The couple also has a five-year-old son, Callen, and a two-year-old daughter, Gracelyn. Maria is an occupational therapist at A-1 Preferred Sources, Inc. in Findlay. Amanda (Blue) Limberty ’05 has a new position as the special education social worker at South Bend Community School Corporation. Ryan Gravett ’06 is the new live mix engineer for the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, D.C.

Marilyn Rice and Earl Fletcher ’75 show their Oiler pride at the Athletic Hall of Fame brunch last January.

Summer 2015 | FindlayMag | 37


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CLASS NOTES

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Teresa (Rhinock) Pietrzyk M’06 and her husband, Edward, have a son, Hank, who is four years old, and a daughter, Emily, who is two years old. Teresa and her family reside in Elida, Ohio. Teresa graduated with a master’s in education. Crystal Stock ’06 who studied wildlife management at Findlay and her husband Kyle Loper welcomed the birth of their first child Colton Ray Loper on Feb. 25. Heather (Hochstetler) Chan ’07 has a new position as the process safety coordinator at Marathon Pipe Line LLC. She and her husband, Simon Chan ’07, who is a system administrator at Cooper Tire and Rubber Company, are welcoming the birth of their first At The University of Findlay’s 2015 Athletic Hall of Fame brunch Terry Wymer ‘82 (football & baseball), received the Lifetime child, Noah Andrew, who was Achievement Award for outstanding athleticism during his time at UF (pictured far left). The Athletic Hall of Fame inducted six born Dec. 14, 2014. Jordan T. Streicher ’07 and his wife, Jill, have a four-year-old son, Haden, and a one-yearold daughter, Norah. Jordan is a teacher at Continental High School in Continental, Ohio where the family resides. Kurri C. Lewis ’08 and his wife, Chantel, are excited to announce the birth of their second son, Knox Lincoln, born on March 21, 2015. Their first son, Valo Arthur, is three years old. Kurri is the curator for the MerryGo-Round Museum located in Sandusky, Ohio. This past year, he was also involved with decorating the White House for the holidays by providing three carousel deer and an elk. He also coaches track for Danbury High School and soccer for Edison High School. Kurri and his family reside in Port Clinton, Ohio. Suzanne W. English M’09 has a new position as the vice president of admissions, marketing and communication at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. She currently resides in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. 38 | FindlayMag | findlay.edu

former student athletes in 2015 including (from left to right) Tim Hamen ‘99 (basketball), Damien Spates ‘99 (cross country & track), Kati (Stedcke) Hunt ‘01 (basketball & track), Michelle (Biclawski) Williams ‘96 (soccer), Nate Weihruach ‘97 (football), and Doug Coate ‘83 (baseball & football).

Stacy T. Givens M’09 has a new position as the environmental health and safety specialist at Penn State University. She received her master’s degree in environmental safety and health management at UF and now resides in State College, Pennsylvania.

2010s

Stephen Piwowar ’11 has a new position as the front office manager at Twin Tier Hospitality. He and his wife, Jourdan, reside in Elyria, Ohio. During his time at UF, Stephen was a member of Theta Chi Fraternity. Melissa Ann Soto ’11 has a new position as the district sales manager for the CocaCola Company. She resides in Delaware, Ohio. Zane Grafton ’12, who studied animal science and equine business management, started a new position with AnheuserBusch as driver/handler for the Budweiser Clydesdales in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Amy (Klik) Murray, Pharm.D. ’12 is a clinical discharge pharmacist at Southwest General Hospital. She has one son, Christian, who is less than a year old. She resides in Strongsville, Ohio. Austyn Erickson ’13 has a new position as sport program assistant at the Kentucky Horse Park for the United States Equestrian Federation. Jessica Swihart ’13, a dual major in animal science and business management, started a new position at the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation as organization director in Ottawa, Ohio. Lauren (Schaufler) Flew ’13, M’14 has a new position as an occupational therapist at Paragon Rehabilitation in Louisville, Kentucky. During her time at Findlay, Lauren was involved with the Student Occupational Therapy Association, Pi Theta Epsilon National Honor Society, Mortar Board National Honor

Society, American Sign Language Club, the Findlay Dance Team, and Students Towards Alumni Relations (S.T.A.R.) Club. She and her husband, Cody, currently reside in Willard, Ohio. Raeceen Lee Daugherty ’14 has a new position as the operations supervisor at NorthPointe Hotel and Conference Center in Lewis Center, Ohio. She was involved with UF Student Development Officers (UFSDO) Club, Hospitality Management Club, San Antonio Sales Blitz, UF Outreach, and the Generation Orange Committee during her time at UF. She lives in Columbus, Ohio. Class Notes for this issue were received by April 30, 2015.


END NOTES Dear Alumni: Homecoming 2015 will be upon us soon, so please mark your calendars for October 16-17. The theme is “Believe and Achieve.” Watch for your Homecoming brochure and take the opportunity to visit with deans and faculty from each college, cheer on the Oilers at the football game and participate in the many other events across campus. A showcase event is our Alumni Association Breakfast that honors alumni for the Old Main Award, Gold Medallion and Distinguished Alumni awards! I have been honored to serve as the president over the last two years and look forward to working with the new president. The Board of Governors set three goals during the last two years. The first is to link alumni and current students for internships and mentoring. Our Office of Internships and Placement has done a fabulous job keeping the board updated on partnerships with the community. A second goal is an alumni board giving challenge. Board Member Mark Cosiano is leading this initiative, and the Board of Governors is already at 100 percent giving! We challenge you, as alumni, to give back and pay it forward. Our percentage of giving as an alumni association is low compared to other private institutions. As alumni, you may not think a small gift will do much, but in terms of percentage of giving, even a small gift will make a huge difference. College rating systems use alumni giving participation rates to calculate rankings that affect enrollment; corporations and foundations evaluate it when granting funds; and most importantly your gifts support the future of our students. Please consider giving back to the University in any way that you can. Visit give.findlay.edu to give online. The third and final goal is to continue to support events on campus. We look forward to seeing all of you Homecoming Weekend October 16-17. In order to stay connected and updated on events please visit our website at www.findlay.edu/events. If you are interested in helping the University in any way, please call or email the Alumni Office at 419-434-4516, 1-800-472-9502 extension 4516, or alumni@findlay.edu. We will be happy to hear from you. With Oiler Pride,

Dr. Julie McIntosh ’90, President Alumni Association Board of Governors

We Need Your Help! In today’s changing environment, it is not always easy to stay connected with our alumni, parents and friends. As people marry, move, change phone numbers and get new jobs, it is easy to lose touch. Please help us by going to Findlay.edu/ShareYourNews to fill out a form with your contact information. THANKS!

Alumni Association Board of Governors Officers: President: Julie (Dean) McIntosh ’90 Vice President: Susan Hite ’87 Past President: Scott Zahler ’99 Elected Representatives (3-year terms): Ronald Cable ’64 Mark Cosiano ’07 Peter Dalpiaz ’08 Liz Ditto ’81 Jennia (Jenkins) Knestrick ’94 Michael Murphy ’72 Philip Riegle ’00 Kim (Heaster) Rozelle ’88 Kayla Shannon ’10 Ryan Smith ’00, M’07 James Taylor ’72 Kevin Wolfe ’94 Appointed Representatives (2-year terms): Marcy Banner ’93 Kelly (Zink) Ernst ’03 Matthew Maglicic ’92 Lucas Opperman ’14 Dean Plott ’93 Alumni Trustee: Bob Fry Representatives to Trustee Committees Academic Affairs: Jennia (Jenkins) Knestrick ’94 Alumni Trustee: Jennia (Jenkins) Knestrick ’94 Business Affairs: Ronald Cable ’64 Enrollment Management: Susan Hite ’87 Student Affairs: Kelly (Zink) Ernst ’03 University Advancement: Mark Cosiano ’07 Summer 2015 | FindlayMag | 39


Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit #83 Findlay, OH

1000 North Main Street Findlay, Ohio 45840-3653

“BELIEVE & ACHIEVE” HOMECOMING & FAMILY WEEKEND 2015 SAVE THE DATE! OCT. 16 & 17

Reconnect with your classmates and The University of Findlay for a weekend full of events: • Reunion celebrations will take place for the classes of 1990, 1975, 1965, and Generation Orange (graduates of the last decade)! • Celebrate the success of the Give Voice to Your Values campaign. • Visit with the deans and faculty from our colleges. • Be a part of the 5K or Little Oiler Fun Run. • Attend the annual Alumni Association Breakfast. • Cheer on the Oilers during the football game. • Go to the carnival, a family event with food, games, inflatables and fireworks!

Registration opens in September at www.findlay.edu/events. The Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents & Friends: 419-434-4516


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