Fall 2016
Nuclear Medicine Institute Celebrates 50 Years
From the President Vol. 103, No. 1, Fall 2016
I am pleased whenever I hear that a University of Findlay graduate is achieving career success. I am even more pleased to learn how many of our alumni are selecting careers that provide not only financial success but also the opportunity to help others. In this issue, we will visit with Tony Marini and Chris Caparelli, graduates of the Nuclear Medicine Program. They use their expertise to assist physicians in making accurate diagnoses, while helping tense patients feel more at ease during testing. Similarly making animals and their families feel comfort under difficult circumstances, Adam Hechko, DVM, a 2002 graduate of the Animal Science Program, has compassion for animals as well as their owners. On the other side of the country, Kymry Brooks ’13 loves her job keeping employees safe and her company in compliance with regulations, while she enjoys the scenic northern California wine country. Our graduates prove time and again that having a meaningful life and a productive career are not mutually exclusive. They learn at the University of Findlay to pursue careers that are personally fulfilling and materially rewarding, professions that allow them to enhance the quality of life of their patients, students, customers and communities. When they march out through the Griffith Memorial Arch at commencement, they are prepared to make good choices, personally and professionally. As always, I thank you for your continued support of our scholarship programs and our current building project, the Center for Student Life and College of Business. Your contributions play a major role in developing graduates who make the wisest choices for themselves and others. Sincerely,
Katherine Fell, Ph.D. President
FindlayMag is published by the University of Findlay. It is mailed free of charge to alumni, parents and friends of the University twice a year. President Katherine Fell, Ph.D. Editor Caitlin Paynich, M.S. Art Director Irene Martin Photographers Anne Risser Lee Amy DePuy Writers Barbara Lockard M’02 Joy Shaw Student Writers Danielle Basinger Larissa Holmes Director, The Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents and Friends Dee Dee Spraw ’00, M’07
Stay in touch with UF! You can keep up with the news at the University of Findlay on a monthly basis by subscribing to our e-newsletters. • ArchLink – a general newsletter about the latest campus happenings and academic programs, with special updates on alumni events • Mazza Mail – a monthly update on all the exciting programs and events at the Mazza Museum • Inside the Arch – an insider’s look at campus for parents, with special tips and advice To register for the online newsletters, go to www.findlay.edu/newsletters.
Contents Page 12
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Page 36
Fall 2016
Features 4 | On One End of the Needle Nuclear Medicine Institute Celebrates 50 Years
by Caitlin Paynich, M.S.
Departments 24 | Donor Impact
12 | All In The Family Farm Boy Grew Up to Become Premier Animal
30 | On Campus
Hospital Veterinarian by Joy Shaw
36 | Alumni Events
16 | Grape Expectations Environmental Health and Safety Alum has Coveted Wine Country Career by Joy Shaw
39 | Class Notes 43 | End Notes
20 | Finding Treasure at the Clubhouse Parents, Kids Experience Transformation Through Literacy Program by Barb Lockard, M’02 FindlayMag | 3
4 | Fall 2016
On One End of the Needle Nuclear Medicine Institute Celebrates 50 Years by Caitlin Paynich, M.S.
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P
atients come to them facing the unknown. They come to them
having just been diagnosed with cancer, after a heart attack, after surgery or facing some other medical condition, and all they know is they’re about to have a test that involves a radioactive isotope in their blood. Nuclear medicine technologists meet patients like these every day, and part of their job is to help each patient understand that test and reach the next step of their treatment.
“These patients are dealing with tough situations, and it’s happening very quickly. We’re there to help them figure out what is potentially wrong with them,” said Tony Marini who completed his certification as a nuclear medicine technologist at the University of Findlay in 1993. “As the technologist, I have to be cognizant of everything they’re going through, but at the same time I can’t be so emotional that it keeps me from helping them,” he said. At Findlay, technologists like Marini first learn all the theoretical knowledge they need to be successful in their field, and then they spend two semesters putting those theories into practice, running tests and interacting with patients at clinical sites. Part of that theoretical knowledge includes developing an understanding of nuclear medicine and how it can be used to see the physiology of the body. “Nuclear medicine is a segment of the larger field of radiology which also includes X-ray, CT/ CAT scan, MRI, sonography, and mammography” says Ryan Smith, D.H.Sc., director of the Nuclear 6 | Fall 2016
Medicine Technology Program at UF. While people may be more familiar with some of these modalities than others, the difference lies in how the images are obtained and what specifically those images show. With nuclear medicine, the technologist administers a radiopharmaceutical (radioactive drug) either with a needle (by IV) or in some cases by capsule and then uses a camera to scan the patient. The camera detects the radiation coming from the patient’s body and can produce both twodimensional and three-dimensional images of the organ or organs in the study. By looking at the images, Smith explained, the technologist can see the blood flow and its concentration and understand how the organ is functioning. “The diagnostic tools in nuclear medicine are intriguing, because unlike other imaging modalities nuclear medicine highly focuses on the function of the body, which is what I have always thought is the most interesting information we offer our patients,” said Shana SchnipkeDuling, DDS, a 2009 graduate of the program who went on to become
On One End of the Needle
a dentist in northwest Ohio. “The professors I encountered at UF made topics that typically put a college student to sleep become the most interesting and thought-provoking information. They also instilled a sense of service and leadership in their students,” she said, “and it was this nurturing that led me to a career in patient care. I really like building relationships with my patients and seeing them every six months. I know the dentist office is a scary or uneasy place for most, so working to make
Nuclear medicine students (Haider Alawami and Maitham Alnaser) practice positioning EKG electrodes at a UF clinical site at the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor.
it as comfortable and enjoyable as possible is something I enjoy every day.” Making his patients comfortable is something Tony Marini, who has spent 23 years in the nuclear medicine field, has really come to appreciate. “My patients are truly the reason I go to work each day. I’ve learned from their life lessons, and I try to share them with the people around me.” First earning his bachelor’s from Cleveland State University in journalism and communication, Marini realized his heart had always been in science and technology and heard about UF’s program for certification in nuclear medicine technology. “Elaine Markon, the director of the program at the time, was a professional in nuclear medicine. The intertwining of learning from textbooks as well as the real-life experience through clinical training allowed me to learn a lot in a short time period,” he said. Since he completed his certification, Marini has developed a passion for his work and in particular patient care that he’d like to pass on to others. “I enjoy the variety of the job,” said Marini. “We work with images of every part of the body from the thyroid and liver to the bones and the heart. I’m learning every day not only about the science in the body but also from the patients and human interaction.” Because of the struggles his patients are often facing Marini feels like he’s been able to learn from their experiences. “For example, sometimes the patient has just found out he has cancer, and we’re doing a test to check if it has metastasized FindlayMag | 7
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On One End of the Needle
“As graduates go out to where they live and work around the country and around the world, they take what they’ve gained and use it not only to better their own lives but to provide care for patients that need it. We’re proud to say that in educating those students we were a part of that.” -Ryan Smith, program director to his bones,” he suggested. “I recognize in my own life the things that are inconsequential, and I’m reminded of how fragile life can be. It’s important to remember there’s a patient at the other end of the needle.” Being the patient at the other end of the needle is something alumnus Chris Capparelli first began to understand at the age of 7. His younger brother, age 4, developed a Wilms’ Tumor, a type of kidney cancer that affects young children. His entire family went through testing, and he learned that the tests nuclear medicine technologists run allow doctors to study how the body functions. Because the cancer was detected early, his brother recovered and has led a full life, but the experience stayed with Capparelli, and it led him to study nuclear medicine technology at Findlay. “We had a small class of only eight people so we were a tight knit group,” he said. “We helped each other study and to understand
the challenging concepts.” Now as the lead technologist at Upper Valley Medical Center in Troy, Ohio, he has had the opportunity to host a clinical site for UF students in the program. “I remember when I started my clinicals as a student and how alone I felt when I started. I get to pass on my knowledge and help them put into practice what they’ve learned from their books.” Like Marini, Capparelli appreciates the variety of the job and the relationship he’s able to develop with his patients. “The tests we run take longer, usually at least three to five hours and often over multiple days. Often patients walk in terrified with no real idea of what nuclear medicine is and how it works. It’s my job to erase that fear of the unknown and try to put their mind at ease.” At Upper Valley Medical Center, Capparelli says four of the five technologists he works with went to UF including some with different focuses in cardiology or PET scans. “We all feel well prepared for our
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FAQ About Nuclear Medicine What is nuclear medicine? Nuclear medicine technology uses radiopharmaceuticals (specialized drugs containing radioactive isotopes) and a specialized camera to safely and effectively diagnose and sometimes treat various diseases or disorders.
Is it safe? There are risks involved in every medical procedure, but nuclear medicine technologists are trained to protect themselves and patients when working with radioactivity. The exposure to radiation for a typical nuclear medicine testing procedure is similar to what a patient would experience for an X-ray and significantly less than a CAT scan.
What are some tests nuclear medicine technologists run? Cardiac stress tests, bone scans, lung scans, liver/spleen scans, brain scans, gallbladder (HIDA) scans, renal (kidney) scans, gastrointestinal bleed studies, gastric emptying studies, thyroid scans
What are some issues that nuclear medicine technology can detect? Lack of blood flow to a particular organ (such as the heart), Blood clots in the lungs, renal artery stenosis, brain “death,” various types of cancer (such as in the bone or thyroid), overactive thyroid gland, underactive thyroid gland, bone or tissue infection, skeletal injuries
Nuclear Medicine Institute at UF • Nearly 1,700 graduates from it’s 50-year history work in all 50 states and around the world. • NMI received the highest achievable (seven-year) accreditation cycle from the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology in 2001, 2008 and 2015. • The overall program completion rate is 97 percent (Aug. 2009 - 2015).
Visit these websites for more information: www.findlay.edu/healthprofessions/nuclearmedicine/ Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging: www.snmmi.org Wilm’s Tumers: www.MayoClinic.org Nuclear medicine technology and other modalities: www.RadiologyInfo.org
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jobs and would definitely go back to attend the same program again.” Further, he’s found that the reputation of the nuclear medicine technology program at UF often precedes him: “I’m proud to be part of a school that has been around so long. When I tell someone I went to NMI, they know that I’m well prepared.” Founded in 1966 at Hillcrest Hospital near Cleveland, Ohio, the Nuclear Medicine Institute (NMI) moved to the campus of then Findlay College in 1984 as the first health professions program on campus. This year NMI celebrated its 50th Anniversary during Homecoming and Family Weekend, bringing back cofounder Paul Early, and former program director Elaine Markon for the celebration. It came as a little bit of a surprise to Early when he realized it had been 50 years since he founded the institute along with Dr. D. Bruce Sodee. “Back then I didn’t know how long it would last and how the institute would grow to serve the community in such a way,” he said. In fact, nearly 1,700 students have completed the nuclear medicine program throughout the institute’s history. Founded on the cusp of a growing industry, NMI began before an accreditation program existed, receiving initial accreditation in 1972. Founders Early and Sodee went on to write textbooks about nuclear medicine that became the “bibles” of the field, according to Ryan Smith, D.H.Sc., current program director. “The founders of our program are essentially legends in the field,” he said. “Elaine Markon who learned
On One End of the Needle
directly from them brought the program to UF and served as the director for many years. We developed a reputation early on of being very rigorous.” Maintaining that reputation as a leader in nuclear medicine
Smith reviews a scan with Robert Ackermann, clinical site supervisor and a student, Maitham Alnaser.
technology, the University now offers an additional one-year online program in positron emission tomography/ computed tomography (PET/CT) for certified technologists focusing on advanced techniques in nuclear medicine. Some of these advanced techniques combine the different modalities using fusion imaging, a method on the cutting edge of the industry. “Combining a PET scan with a CT scan, we’re able to look at the anatomy and physiology of the organ at the same time and pinpoint the exact location of poor functionality in the body. Our technologists have to be uniquely trained to understand the theories behind both components,” Smith explained. After working as a technologist in the field, Smith, who graduated from the program himself, built his career at UF. “It’s very humbling to be part of the rich history of NMI. The fact that it’s lasted this long when other programs have come and gone is a testament to the quality of the program,” he said. “We’ve touched thousands of lives with all the graduates we’ve had. As those graduates go out to where they live and work around the country and throughout the world, they take what they’ve gained and use it not only to better their own lives but to provide care for patients that need it. We’re proud to say that in educating those students we were a part of that and being able to get them there.”
Nuclear Medicine Student Alnaser positions a patient for a scan, as supervised by Ackermann.
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ALL IN THE FAMILY Farm Boy Grew Up to Become Premier Animal Hospital Veterinarian by Joy Shaw
12 | Fall 2016
Adam Hechko ’02, D.V.M.
A
small, but soothing garden in North Royalton, just south of energetic Cleveland, is like no other. A brick path that meanders past a fountain and bench conveys thoughtful messages from loved ones: “Forever Good Girl,” “Sarah’s Protector,” “The Best Ball Player.” Rosey’s Memorial Garden, located at the North Royalton Animal Hospital, exemplifies the facility’s family focus that is continuously furthered by Adam Hechko, D.V.M., a 2002 University of Findlay graduate. Hechko’s approach to veterinary medicine ensures that all visitors—owners and pets—receive personalized, meaningful and lasting attention. His commitment to quality earned the practice recognition as the American Animal Hospital Association Practice of the Year in 2015. Each animal’s medical needs are met, but bonding with families is also important, Hechko explained. Staff members become acquainted with caregivers, which also puts pets more at ease, and follow-up calls are made to check on progress. Exam room care extends beyond each animal. “Many times I’m hearing stories about their family or extended family, and sometimes it’s things that we celebrate, and sometimes it’s things that are sad. That’s what has really enriched my life—creating that
connection with each person who comes in here,” he said. Growing up on a livestock farm with hogs, dogs and cats near Columbia Station, Ohio, meant that Hechko always knew he wanted to pursue a career in animal care. “My love for animals started when I was really tiny, probably when I was just starting to walk,” he said. “I was probably around 8 or 9 years old when I was following the farm vets around.” Hechko said he chose to attend the University of Findlay because it “had a great, and has a great, pre-veterinary medicine program. I wanted to make sure that in order to achieve my goal, I would set myself up with every opportunity that I could to make myself as appealing as I could to the (veterinary school) selection committee for Ohio State.” He named C. Michael Kerns, D.V.M., professor of animal science and staff veterinarian, and Linda Peck, D.V.M., a retired animal science professor, as some of his primary UF mentors. “Both of them offered great advice to influence a lot of the decisions I made and were very encouraging for me as I continued my career path,” Hechko noted. Also as an Oiler, Hechko participated in the Student Government Association and other FindlayMag | 13
campus organizations. He said his involvement helped him to “make a lot of great connections with so many friends whom I still have to this day.” He graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2006, having acquired a wealth of experience working on animals ranging from orangutans to giraffes, but becoming a large animal veterinarian wasn’t meant to be. When the sole veterinarian at North Royalton Animal Hospital, who was also his father-in-law, died, Hechko filled the void immediately after graduating, a brave move for a veterinarian fresh out of school. Hechko admitted he phoned a lot of friends that first year as he acclimated to the rigors of running a practice. Since he took the helm a decade ago, the North Royalton Animal Hospital has added three veterinarians to its staff, along with Paws At Play Resort and Daycare. The recognition from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) as Practice of the Year is part of a voluntary process. The association only accredits approximately 12 percent of animal hospitals in the United States and Canada using more than 900 standards. Hechko said the laborious two-year reviews are worth it in order to remain committed to the highest level of medical care and service. The additional professional reviews, and the personalized, detailed services offered to people and their companion animals, requires the entire animal hospital team to make it all succeed. Hechko said he is proud to be working with colleagues who are as dedicated to superior animal welfare and care as he is. The treatment of pets at the North Royalton hospital concentrates on comfort and compatibility. The staff suggests pet-calming techniques for owners to use before they even
“I’m hearing stories about their family or extended family, and sometimes it’s things that we celebrate, and sometimes it’s things that are sad. That’s what has really enriched my life— creating that connection with each person who comes in here.” –Adam Hechko ’02
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leave their homes. For felines, the hospital has a waiting room that is removed from areas with dogs, and uses aromatherapy and soothing music to make each visit less stressful. Special treats are given to pets for positive memory association. Cheese Whiz has proven to be a popular distraction. Hechko recalled one typically-rambunctious cat that calmly lay on the exam table licking Cheese Whiz while blood was drawn. Such additional measures are in keeping with the AAHA’s “fear-free initiative” for pets. The job of a veterinarian is, of course, varied. The biggest surprises often accompany gastrointestinal issues, Hechko said. “They’ll come in, they’re vomiting, they’re having GI issues, they’re not eating. We discover they have a foreign body or an object that’s lodged somewhere in their intestinal track. And there are lots of great stories about some of the things that we’ve pulled out, from corn cobs to socks and other clothing to children’s toys. It never ceases to amaze me some of the things that dogs will eat,” he admitted. Most rewarding for Hechko is enabling companion animals to live happily with their families for years. The community events that the animal hospital hosts are also enjoyable, he said. Along with Easter bone hunts for dogs and photos with Santa, the hospital offers a free annual animal carnival for the community, which includes parks and law enforcement demonstrations, activities for children, access to various animals, adoption opportunities, pet items for sale and educational offerings. The most difficult, but most meaningful veterinary work, he said, is “helping to guide families on when it’s time to say goodbye. Euthanasia to me is one of the most important decisions that a pet owner is going to make for their pet. We have lots of tears of joy as they’re growing up, and we have lots of tears of sorrow because they’re such an important part of the family.” Getting to know families, their beliefs and preferences helps during such tumultuous times, he said. Influencing those end-of-life decisions is the fact that veterinary medicine, as with medical treatment for humans, has changed notably over the years, Hechko explained. For
ALL IN THE FAMILY
instance, “very primitive diagnostics” have evolved to in-house imaging and blood work that mirrors what’s available at human hospitals, and state-ofthe-art techniques such as advanced laser therapy are offered. In some ways, pet care is now more attuned to the latest technology and services than human medicine, as evidenced by the fact that the North Royalton Animal Hospital’s records are digitized so that any veterinarian can readily see a patient’s history and share that with other staff. Many owners also tend to conduct online research on their pets’ conditions, which can be positive but have its drawbacks. “I know everybody’s heart is in the right place, but sometimes it can be challenging,” given that there is so much misinformation online too, he maintained. Healing those hearts after a death is also paramount. On any given day, Hechko said he can look out of a particular exam room window that fronts Rosey’s Memorial Garden, supported and dedicated by a family whose dog died in 2011, and see a visitor. North Royalton Animal Hospital staffers are proud to offer a space that helps owners maintain a connection to pets they’ve lost over the years, and Hechko, in particular, said that he is glad that his professional interests veered from wanting to treat large animals into caring for family pets. “My career path changed, and now I’m doing something that I love,” he said.
THE DOCTOR IS IN Dr. Adam Hechko’s Advice for Pet Owners and Aspiring Vets: 1. What is a common mistake that pet owners make? “I think the biggest mistake I see pet owners make is the belief that food is love. Many owners are surprised that I’m pointing out that their pets might be overweight. Healthy weight is so important as our pets get older. It reduces the likelihood of diabetes, slows down the progression of joint disease, and reduces strain on the heart when heart disease is present. We use science-based medicine and calorie counts when we determine what a pet’s needs are. This removes personal feelings and subjective evaluations.” 2. Can you offer some tips for first-time pet owners? “Research the pet that you’re choosing; find out what their needs are and what their lifestyles are. Make sure you match up the personality of the pet with the lifestyle that you have. Be prepared to go to the veterinarian. Make sure that you’re taking the time to give your pet the medical care that it needs, because a healthy pet is also equal to a healthy environment at your house. Sometimes we miss those opportunities to do preventative care or to get routine care for our pets.” 3. What does it take to be a great veterinarian? “A great veterinarian is one who is engaged with their patients, is detail-oriented when it comes to the medical care, but also can understand the human side of it, the relationship side that we have with our pets and how important that is for so many people in their lives.” 4. Do you have any advice for students who want to be veterinarians or otherwise work with animals? “Make sure you understand the profession you’re getting into, and take your spring breaks and summers, your winter breaks, and start networking early. Make connections with veterinarians or facilities where you can observe and learn. I’ve had students come in here thinking this is what they want to do, and sometimes when they see a blood draw they get queasy; this might not be the career for them! Get volunteer experience or mentorship experience, and make it diverse, not just at one facility or not just with one type of animal. Diversity is really important because veterinary medicine has lots of different areas that you can be in.”
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grape expectations Environmental Health and Safety Alum has Coveted Wine Country Career by Joy Shaw
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ost people board a plane or hop in a vehicle to get to California’s wine country. Kymry Brooks’ journey to wine country involved intense internships that included responding to a deadly disease outbreak and other safety-related adventures. As a reward for the fruits of her student labor, Brooks, a class of 2013 grad, now has what she considers to be a rewarding career as a safety specialist for The Wine Group (TWG), which bills itself as the second-largest wine distributor in the world. Brooks serves as a technical resource to all TWG facilities, which include multiple wineries in California, one in New York and one in South Australia. She’s on the go much of the time, maintaining and promoting an active safety environment among all employees through resource management, training, policy updates and audits. She is also responsible for ensuring the company’s state and federal workplace safety compliance. “That’s what I love about my job—there is no such thing as a typical day!” Brooks said. “One day I might be in Sonoma to train employees on confined space entry and the next I could be creating a video on lock-out tag-out, and another day I could be conducting nighttime safety checks in the fields.” Along with her curious and committed spirit, Brooks’ educational framework at the University of Findlay prepared her well for her diverse internships and current job, the latter of which she began in 2013. Originally from Otter Creek, Maine, located on the famed resort area of Mount Desert Island, Brooks chose to attend UF for its equestrian program, but was also attracted to environmental studies. She earned an associate degree in western equestrian studies and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Safety and Occupational Health (ESOH). “I majored in ESOH because I have always been passionate about human health and the environment, and those two topics are more important than ever at this time,” Brooks explained. “The ESOH Program caught my attention because it offered students many opportunities to apply things learned in the classroom in the real world. For example, I had the chance to participate in a university study of health and safety at the pre-vet barn.” Brooks noted her internships, made
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possible through UF, proved to be invaluable. “I feel so fortunate to have attended a program that not only encourages students to pursue multiple internships, but that also helps make those opportunities available,” she added. During the summer of 2013, she worked for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta in its Summer Program in Environmental Health. There, she was tasked with responding to a typhoid outbreak in American Samoa, responding to a massive drought in the Marshall Islands, performing restaurant inspections, and providing educational outreach about Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, among other things. Both the typhoid and drought projects “put what I had learned over the past four years at school to the test,” she said. “It was rewarding to know that we were able to deliver on the assignment in a timely manner.” For her fall 2012 semester, she enrolled in a full course load and worked full-time as an industrial hygiene intern for Marathon Petroleum Corporation, traveling around the country to conduct sampling that helped ensure workers weren’t being exposed to harmful
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chemicals. “I learned a great deal of technical information in regards to sampling methods and technology and time management,” she said. Brooks also completed internships at Okamoto Sandusky MFG, Owens Corning in Santa Clara, California, and for UF’s Environmental Health and Safety Audit Team. Was she ever apprehensive about performing what some would consider to be harrowing work? “I’m happy to say no,” she responded. Having already fallen in love with California’s bay region, she kept her eyes peeled for a job there, and soon found one from The Wine Group posted on the UF Alumni’s Facebook page. Brooks said she also was drawn to the business’ safety philosophy. “The Wine Group is a unique company in the way that they structure their safety programs, putting an emphasis on the fact that everyone is responsible for safety, not just the people with ‘safety’ in their title,” she said. “I saw this as a positive thing and a culture that I wanted to be a part of. In traditional safety programs, the safety manager is often viewed as ‘the safety police,’ and that is not a sustainable method because it creates an ‘us against them’
grape expectations
“The ESOH program caught my attention because it offered students many opportunities to apply things learned in the classroom in the real world. For example, I had the chance to participate in a University study of health and safety at the pre-vet barn.” –Kymry Brooks ’13
mentality instead of a teamwork approach.” Looking back professionally, Brooks said she was surprised, but heartened by the fact that times, and attitudes, have changed from the days when safety was not considered a priority. “I’ve had the good fortune to work in many different industries, from fiberglass insulation to plastics, and what I find interesting is how ubiquitous safety and environmental matters are in any field,” she maintained. “While the end products in the warehouse may be different, the challenges and hazards are often very similar between industries.” A culture that encourages all workers to employ best practices is something that The Wine Group, through Brooks, considers vital. “Without the exceptional people who make our wines and package and distribute them, we would not be able to thrive as a business as we have for so many years,” she said. Her challenge, she noted, is to continue to nurture those attitudes and workplace engagement. “If I won the Powerball tomorrow, I’d say my ultimate dream job would be to open a nonprofit therapeutic riding center,” said Brooks, whose interest in horses has never waned. “I have always been passionate about horses, and UF allowed me to explore that interest with
some of the top trainers in the country. I still ride and compete in endurance races, and I feel so fortunate to have learned from the trainers at UF,” she said. In the real world, though, her dream job is her current career. “I truly enjoy the work that I do. It is rewarding to know that it has a positive impact on the lives of people and that I can contribute to people going home safely to their families, so this is pretty close to a dream job,” she stated. “I get to travel, spend time outdoors, and I don’t have to wear business formal to the office! I even get to go to Australia later this year.” Another job perk, of course, is the same experience that brings most people to wine country, enjoying wine. “It’s funny, when I first interviewed for the job I hardly had any exposure to wine and frankly wasn’t very fond of the taste. Over the past three years I have grown an appreciation for it and do enjoy wine tasting with my husband and trying new labels put out by The Wine Group, such as Slow Press and Chloe.”
Brooks in California with Kyle Schmidt, The Wine Group’s Environmental Services director and 2005 alumnus of UF’s Environmental Safety and Occupational Health Management Program, and intern Daniel Wentz.
www.thewinegroup.com UF’s ESOH Program: www.findlay.edu/sciences/environmental CDC Summer Program in Environmental Health: www.cdc.gov/nceh/ehs/supeh/
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Finding Treasure at the Clubhouse Parents, Kids Experience Transformation Through Literacy Program by Barb Lockard, M’02
E
lizabeth Nagy is a treasure hunter. The fourth grader at St. Michael’s School in Findlay loves to find pretty things: beads, buttons, rocks and pennies. According to her mother, Erin Nagy, Elizabeth may have found the most valuable treasure of all at the University of Findlay’s Clubhouse. “Being able to read is vital,” said Erin. “Elizabeth has really built her reading skills over three years. We saw the most significant improvement between second and third grade.” Erin was referring to her daughter’s experience with UF’s literacy outreach program, the Clubhouse, operated by the College of Education. Diagnosed with ADHD, Elizabeth was still struggling learning letter sounds at the end of kindergarten. That’s when a family friend told Erin about the Clubhouse. “I’ve discovered when you have a child that’s having trouble with school or reading, someone in Findlay will recommend the Clubhouse,” she added. “It’s very well known among parents.” Erin also learned that Elizabeth
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processes information very slowly, sometimes typical boy. Sitting still and reading was not not recalling what she’s been taught until two one of his favorite pastimes; that is until he weeks later. “We need to repeat and reinforce heard a tutor read about the Titanic from the everything.” “Magic Tree House” book series. That reinforcement and finding what “I saw him light up with that book,” makes each child learn to enjoy reading is Michelle Fisch, his mother, said. “He really what the Clubhouse is all about, according loves to read books about natural disasters, to Allison Baer, Ph.D., director. “This isn’t a too. I agree with the Clubhouse philosophy ‘homework help’ program,” Baer emphasized. that you should let kids pursue their own “It’s very targeted. We use the Three-Minute interests in reading. It keeps them engaged Assessment to identify each child’s strengths and enthusiastic.” and needs. We can assess words read correctly Baer feels that some children who struggle per minute, fluency, speed and phrasing.” with reading do so not because of lack of According to Baer, the Clubhouse has ability, but because of lack of interest. “When served approximately 1,300 children in grades you create a connection (between a book and one through nine in the past four years. Best a kid’s interest) it totally works,” explained part: the service is provided free of charge Baer. “We take an ‘interest inventory’ to see to any child who can benefit. Tutors are UF what topics the kids would like to read about. teacher education candidates. Sessions are We had a little girl who loved to read about held during all University of Findlay semesters, the presidents of the United States. Soon, the in the evenings during the school year. The entire Clubhouse was reading about presidents. summer program meets in the mornings for It was contagious!” 10 sessions over three weeks. There are small The Clubhouse tutors work on fluency and group (“3-2-1”) and individual (“CHIP”) options phrasing, which entails a lot of reading aloud available. Kids can also join the 1882 Club, and doing skits, plays and games. “Bryan which challenges them to read 1,882 minutes doesn’t have a problem with comprehension,” in one UF semester. said Michelle, “but he had trouble with fluency. His teachers make recommendations and the Clubhouse tutors work on them. Reading is not his favorite thing to do, so I work to keep him interested.” A third grade student at Findlay’s Wilson Joining the Clubhouse the summer Vance Elementary School, Bryan Fisch is a following kindergarten, Bryan has participated
Creating a Connection
Clubhouse Reviews from Parents “He has started to enjoy reading more. Not a fight to get him to read anymore.” (8-year-old boy)
“He seems to read more fluently, and he remembers details in order better than he used to.” (11-year-old boy)
“They love reading skits with the other kids.” (8 and 10-year-old sisters)
“We have seen great growth and her reading is fluent. She talks to us about what she reads now. She enjoys reading and asks to go to the library on her own now.” (10-year-old girl)
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“Increased her level at school and at home! This is an absolutely wonderful program. I still can’t believe it’s at no cost. Very organized, effective and efficient.” (6-year-old girl)
Finding Treasure at the Clubhouse
Fourth grader Elizabeth and her mother, Erin.
Third grader Bryan and his mother, Michelle.
Allison Baer, Ph.D., director of the Clubhouse in both the 3-2-1 group tutoring and CHIP individual tutoring programs. This fall, he’s chosen individual tutoring, and his mother feels it works best for him. “He really connected last year with his tutor Brooke Boznango,” she added. Boznango graduated from UF in 2016 with a degree in middle childhood education.
Even Treasures Have Their Limits “We are only limited by money, tutors and space,” commented Baer. While the program has received grant funding and the support of some local businesses, there is still a waiting list of kids who need help. When online registration opens up, the spots are filled within 24 hours. Baer added that she attends many conferences and visits reading centers across the country and stated that, “No one is doing what we’re doing.” The Clubhouse is the only program she’s aware of that provides its tutoring services at no cost. While donations
are appreciated, any child who can benefit from the program can attend for free. “When you think of it, we’re really supporting all area teachers in all subjects, by making our children better readers,” she explained. One area business, Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn Company based in Bluffton, Ohio, has taken the Clubhouse under its wing. With a history of supporting children’s literacy, Shirley’s Findlay store presented a check for more than $3,000 to Baer in June. These funds will support the CHIP program. Glowing parent testimonials are tallied every session, with most stating that their child significantly improved in reading fluency and really raised their level of confidence. Baer recalled a first-grader named Thomas who started the program saying, “I’m stupid.” After two years at the Clubhouse, Thomas has now changed to saying, “I’m smart!” Baer confessed, “That’s my single biggest joy, watching the kids feel better about themselves as readers.”
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Donor Impact Thank You for Your Feedback I want to thank all the alumni who completed our recent alumni survey to help us learn more about their experiences at University of Findlay and Findlay College as well as to ensure we continue to address your needs and interests as alumni. Many of you not only responded but also took the time to provide detailed comments and feedback on your experiences at Findlay. More than 91 percent of all the alumni who responded— regardless of when they attended—said they would recommend University of Findlay to prospective students. What a wonderful endorsement from those who have been in the classroom and understand what UF has to offer future students. You shared that your experiences here prepared you to lead meaningful lives and productive careers, reinforcing that our students and alumni are the living embodiment of our mission. Responses to the survey have already been helpful in the planning of events and communication with alumni. We are taking to heart your feedback about how often you want to hear from us and how you want to stay connected and involved. I encourage you to check out our website www.findlay.edu/events anytime to learn more about the exciting events we have coming up around the country. Many of you also expressed interest in supporting future Oilers philanthropically now or through a legacy gift. Our team stands ready to help you make a contribution in a way that is meaningful to you and that allows Findlay students to lead meaningful lives. Contact University Advancement at universityadvancement@findlay.edu or 419-434-5674 to speak to someone today. We always welcome your involvement and feedback. In Oiler Pride,
Marcia Sloan Latta, Ed.D. Vice President for University Advancement
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Save the Date Winter College 2017 March 1, 2017 Pelican Yacht Club Naples, Florida Featuring speakers with knowledge from experiences around the world: Jeremiah was a Bullfrog Louis Stulman, Ph.D., Professor of Religion, Old Testament Expert Back to the Future … Not Your Father’s Vietnam Louann Cummings, D.M., CPA, Professor of Business, Fulbright Scholar Kissing Giraffes and Befriending Large Mammals Shelby True, Animal Science Student
Thank you to all of the alumni who participated in this survey in 2015. Your feedback provides valuable insight as the University continues to serve its students, alumni and the community.
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TLB Foundation Makes Million Dollar Gift to the University of Findlay
The University of Findlay celebrated a gift of $1 million from the TLB Foundation this fall to support the Center for Student Life currently under construction and scholarships for students demonstrating Christian values and leadership. Originally founded through the sale of Solomon Software based in Findlay, Ohio, the foundation was represented by officers, Jack Ridge and Gary Harpst who presented a check to University trustees. “The TLB Foundation’s support for emerging Christian leaders on our campus enhances our ability to help them flourish,” said President Katherine Fell, Ph.D. “The University of Findlay is dedicated to helping students discover their vocation, whether it’s serving as an occupational therapist, business leader or teacher. For those who long to better understand how their calling aligns with a life of Christian faith, Findlay stands ready and eager to support them.” The gift will create the TLB Foundation Christian Leadership Room in the new building and substantially increase the value of the University’s current TLB
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Foundation Christian Service Scholarship. The TLB Foundation Christian Leadership Room will provide a dedicated fellowship area for the growing number of students involved with Christian leadership at Findlay. “This new space is a way for the University to acknowledge its Christian roots and offer a foundational worldview that is relatable to students. As students decide what worldview to take themselves, we want them to be exposed to the clear claims of Jesus Christ,” explained Ridge. Harpst added, “The room is a symbolic statement that spirituality is a part of student life, and it affects the decisions students make as scholars and later in their professional lives. We see this as a contribution to the continued progress at the University that will support and accelerate further development. We also hope this commitment draws attention to what’s happening here and inspires more people to integrate their faith into everyday life.” Also, the TLB Foundation Christian Service Scholarship will grow significantly with this gift.
Donor Impact
Established in 2013, the scholarship allows students who have financial need to grow into Christian leaders through UF’s Campus Ministries, mentorship and community involvement. “Students don’t always recognize the influence that they have,” said Ridge. “They are in a unique position to act as disciples and share their beliefs with their peers. The scholarship gives them the opportunity to grow as Christian leaders, to claim the ground they are standing on and recognize the impact they can have.” The fund has supported 10 students this year, allowing them to focus on their education and experiences at Findlay rather than their finances. “The scholarship has continuously motivated me to step up in my faith by leading small groups, staying involved and loving everyone I come into contact with,” said Rachel Nelson, an occupational therapy major and recipient of the scholarship who spoke at the gift announcement. “This scholarship gives attention to young men and women who want to combine their Christian values and scholarly work,” said Harpst. “Many schools are moving away from their religious roots or even becoming antagonistic toward those values. The University of Findlay is unique in its vision to remain true to its Christian foundation and to openly encourage people of all faiths and values to attend. Christ called his followers to ‘go into the whole world.’ At some schools with Christian affiliations, students are only exposed to other Christians and one set of principles. At Findlay, students aren’t isolated; they are exposed to multiple cultures and ideas. They are challenged to think about their values and beliefs and apply them to the choices they make in their lives,” said Harpst. Founded on those same values of personal faith, civic mindedness and scholarly achievement by the Churches of God, General Conference and the City of Findlay in 1882, the University of Findlay remains grounded in the Christian faith. Most recently, campus has seen an increase in opportunities for students who want to serve as Christian leaders. According to Matthew Ginter, director of Campus Ministries, there were just three active faith-based student groups on campus in 2010. Today, there are 20 student-organized groups that have involvement from hundreds of UF
students. “These groups create many opportunities for Christ-centered student worship, ministry, service and study, resulting in plenty of opportunities for involvement, including chances to assume leadership roles,” explained Ginter. The name of the foundation recalls the first name of Solomon Software, TLB, Inc. (The Lord’s Business). According to Ridge, the name was chosen to remind the founders—Ridge, Harpst, and Vern Strong, and later the foundation—who truly owns the business and their mission to support the Christian Church in making disciples.
Learn More
Find out more about how this gift from the TLB Foundation is making a difference to students at the University of Findlay. Hear from students, staff and the donors in a video online at www.findlay.edu/ SupportingEmergingChristianLeaders.
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Inheriting a Passion for Education: Margot Biery
As a child Margot Biery remembers spending holidays in Findlay at the home of her grandfather William Aaron Bair ’22, Ph.D., right down the street from Findlay College. Bair taught mathematics, history and education at Findlay from 1921 to 1943, heading the education department for several years, and his granddaughter inherited that same passion for education. “I believe in education, and I have an appreciation for scholarship and helping young people succeed,” said Biery. Her mother’s family, the Bairs, grew up in Findlay in the 1920s and 1930s and all the children attended school and earned degrees, “including the daughters,” Biery stressed, “and at the time, that was rare.” Her mother Helen (Bair ’33)
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MAKE UF PART OF YOUR FUTURE PLANS Did you know that you can name an organization like the University of Findlay alongside your friends and family in your will, retirement plan or life insurance policy? Making this simple commitment could provide estate tax benefits and, more importantly, it will enrich educational opportunities for future UF students.
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Visit our website for up-to-date news and resources in planned giving. For more information about how to leave your legacy, contact Jaclyn Schalk at schalk@findlay.edu or call 419-434-4794. www.findlay.edu/forthelove
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Biery and aunt Margaret (Bair ’31) Whisler both attended Findlay College. Her father’s family sent all three children to college as well. “Education was truly in my blood,” she said. Biery completed her bachelor’s degree in German at Smith College and studied abroad in her junior year. She went on to complete an MBA in accounting from the University of North Texas and a master’s degree in economics from Texas Christian University. After her mother’s death, Biery used a portion of her mother’s estate to honor her family and their connection to the University of Findlay by creating the Bair Family Scholarship. “I want to make it possible for students to go to good schools, especially those who might otherwise have to go to community college. I want them to have access to universities,” said Biery. Biery worked with University Advancement staff to create a charitable gift annuity that allows her to receive payments during her lifetime and the remainder will support the scholarship. Further, she’s named UF as one of the beneficiaries of her retirement plan through a trust to first benefit members of her family. “In this way she is using her assets both to take care of family and ultimately to benefit students through scholarship,” said Jaclyn Schalk, director of gift planning, who worked with her to structure the gift. Continuing in her family tradition of education, Biery devotes her time to teaching economics at Texas Christian University. “I’ve been there longer than any other professor in the department, and I’ve loved every minute of it,” she said. She also spent 36 years teaching at Tarrant County College in the business department. “I enjoy the interaction with students and the challenge of explaining something so they can understand. Being in the classroom is my Johnny Carson moment. It’s what I was meant to do.”
Donor Impact
Bill and Gail Miller with Kaitlyn Carey
Leadership Donors Encounter Hands-On Experiences At this fall’s President’s Leadership Society Fall Harvest Party, donors to the University of Findlay saw up close one of the many ways students capitalize on their support. Hosted this year at the Dr. C. Richard Beckett Animal Science Center and Western Equestrian Farm, the President’s Leadership Society recognizes donors of $1,000 or more for their support of students as they study in the classroom and in hands-on experiences that make them competitive in the professional world. Students like Kaitlyn Carey, an animal science major with a pre-veterinary medicine emphasis (pictured), took donors to meet the animals the students work with throughout the year. Donors had the opportunity to ask questions about the animal’s diet, behavior and how students interact with them at UF. From seeing the newborn goats and baby pigs in the animal science center to the horses in the western riding facility, donors had a taste of the unique hands-on opportunities available to Findlay students. At the event, President Katherine Fell, Ph.D., thanked donors for making these experiences a reality for students and faculty. “You stand in the gap between what could be and what will be. You make dreams come true for all of us. Our students for generations now have benefited from your generosity,” she said. Loyal donors were also recognized at the event including Nicholas Coon ’10, Jason ’09 and Dawn (Ellerbrock ’13) Hunt and Betsy (Evans) Welker ’06 with the Generation Orange Loyalty Trendsetter Award, recognizing graduates of the last decade who have financially supported their alma mater for at least five years consecutively. Dorothy Edwards ’56, Mary Greiner ’52, Richard ’50 and Donna Krauss, Carl ’52 and Evangeline Sleasman, and Cooper Tire and Rubber Company received the Lifetime Achievement Award for 40 consecutive years of loyal support.
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On Campus Construction Update: Structures Coming Down, Steel Going Up The University of Findlay campus looks and sounds a lot different these days—steel beams are visible from many locations, demolition work and foundation building are progressing and streets are occasionally blocked for utility upgrades. Scheduled to open on Aug. 1, 2017, the Center for Student Life and College of Business building is already attracting attention. “When we’re finished with this building, it’s really going to pull this campus together and be beautiful,” said Myreon Cobb, UF’s Physical Plant director. “If you’re standing in the cul-de-sac by the Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion, it’s going to make a big difference. It’ll look less residential and more academic,” he said. Work began in March, and the five acres involved has rapidly changed. Six houses that used to accommodate students, faculty and staff office and living space were razed. A total of 18 will come down during the three-phase project. Relocations have necessitated renovations to other Universityowned homes and are clearing the way for natural gas, waterline and electrical work to accommodate generators in the new 75,000-square-foot Center and higher capacity gas and water lines to the Davis Street Building. Cobb referred to the future building as “state-of-theart.” It will feature several glass-enclosed classrooms and
workspaces, he said. “Everything about it will be airy and clean.” Outside will be welcoming green space and clear sight lines thanks to buried power lines. Cobb is eager to welcome the shift in classrooms, faculty and staff to the new building next year. The College of Business will be the most overt location change, which will open up rooms in Old Main. “It’ll provide us with classroom space we desperately need right now,” he said. “We’re at the edge of the envelope when it comes to classroom space.” Contracts with local firms are also points of pride. The University is working with Alvada Construction, Gosche Putnam Masonry, Jack’s Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing, Inc., Vaughn Industries and New Riegel-based Clouse Construction. “They’re all excellent contractors who have a lot of pride in the community,” said Cobb. Columbus firms that were hired include M&A and Ruscilli, the latter of which also served as the general contractor for the Koehler Fitness and Recreation Complex build and is owned by a UF alumnus.
Conceptual Rendering
Visit www.findlay.edu/ConstructionCam to watch the building take shape live and see interviews with campus stakeholders about how the new facility will make an impact. 30 | Fall 2016
On Campus
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College of Sciences Opens Frost Conservatory University of Findlay College of Sciences faculty and students opened the recently relocated greenhouse to Homecoming and Family Weekend guests on Oct. 15. Located behind 407 Davis St., at the corner of Davis and Morey Streets, the structure has been renamed Frost Conservatory, in honor of its former location at the top of Frost Science Center at the heart of campus. Last summer, the greenhouse was removed for two reasons: it continually leaked moisture into Malcolm Lecture Hall below it, and the University needed more classroom space. Not only are the plants and University maintenance workers happy with the conservatory’s new, brighter location, but so is Ben Dolan, Ph.D., associate professor of biology. Dolan has been keeping the greenhouse alive, so to speak, prior to and ever since the move. He is hoping it will renew student interest in botany and inspire faculty, staff and the public to visit and observe its widely-varied contents. Currently growing in the greenhouse are plants ranging from coleus to delphinium. Dolan is successfully growing a pineapple and is working on a papaya. A Queen of the Night blooming cactus that flowers only one night each year resides there, as do several succulent species. 32 | Fall 2016
Fridays at Findlay An executive speaker series presented by the University of Findlay Featuring leaders from businesses and organizations throughout the region, Fridays at Findlay provides educational opportunities, increases awareness of timely issues and offers insights into the challenges of professionals. Learn more about upcoming speakers this spring at www.findlay.edu/FridaysatFindlay.
Sponsored by:
On Campus
UF Establishes Hybrid Security/ Paying Dues: Cleveland Browns Police Force Professionals Share Their Experiences
At the University of Findlay’s second Browns Edge Career Development Summit, students looking to gain valuable insight into the business world of sports heard from established professionals from the Cleveland Browns. The event was a part of the Browns Edge Partnership, an educational collaboration between the organization and University that also includes internships, mentoring opportunities and specialized learning. Browns managers and directors addressed three different topics: pathways to successful careers, inspirational talks and best practices for building a résumé that gets noticed. Speaking about pathways to successful careers were Anthony Cangelosi, Browns’ manager of corporate partnerships activation, and Kaila Lockhart, corporate partnerships activation coordinator. UF students who have interned or are interning with the Browns were also part of the panel including Brandon Emsweller, a senior, junior Adam Twining, and junior Delaney Haas.
Over the summer, the Office of Security began transitioning to the Office of Campus Safety and Emergency Management, with some security personnel becoming campus police officers in time for the start of the fall semester. Over the next several months, the department will change to include between 18 and 20 officers and security personnel. In June, University of Findlay announced the appointment of William H. Spraw as its first police chief. Spraw, a former Findlay Police Department chief, is in command of the University’s hybrid police/security department. As a Findlay Police Department veteran, Spraw leads the University’s collaboration with the Findlay Police Department and Hancock County Sheriff’s Office on departmental operations and procedures that will allow all regional law enforcement agencies to work on campus crime prevention and response. According to Vice President of Student Affairs David Emsweller, Spraw’s managerial skills, extensive community connections with the public and private sectors, and lifelong commitment to the welfare of all citizens will also be valued as he assists with developing this important University service. The University of Findlay sought an experienced person to provide guidance through the transition and to expand a force that remains committed to serving and educating, Emsweller explained. In selecting Spraw, Findlay hired a proven leader who is adept at managing and implementing time-tested law enforcement and security practices. Spraw began his law enforcement career as a uniformed patrol officer for the city of Findlay in 1980 after earning his bachelor’s in criminal justice from Bowling Green State University. Completing a Master of Criminal Justice from Tiffin University in 1999, he worked his way up through the ranks to become captain in 2000, and police chief in 2005. He retired in May 2009.
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Students Involved in Presidential Election By Larissa Holmes As the election approached this fall, talk about the event buzzed around campus and students became involved in the election process. Members of the Student Government Association set up tables in front of the bell tower on Cory Street Mall, encouraging students to register to vote. More than 400 students came to the event, and 147 registered to vote that day, whether locally or absentee. Those who registered received a free tank-top sporting the phrase “Voice your vote.” Christine Tulley, Ph.D., and students in the Master of Arts in Rhetoric and Writing Program “chalked the walk” with inspirational quotes for students who came to the event. In addition to registering voters, SGA provided information about presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton as well as Libertarian Gary Johnson and Green Party candidate Jill Stein. Students voted in a “straw poll,” providing a glance into the views of the student body. The results of the 250 who participated in the poll put Trump in the lead with 37 percent of the vote and Clinton in second with 25 percent. The Findlay Media Network hosted the first student voter forum open to the public in the atrium of the AMU in October. Two students representing each of the political parties—Republican and Democrat—participated in a discussion on current political issues. Junior and political science major, Ashley Summerfield moderated the event. Sophomore Jacob Sarver and senior Sarah Stubbs represented the Democratic side of the forum while seniors Logan Harrah and Kate Bauer represented the Republican side. The forum provided students with the opportunity to become more informed on important issues, hear the opinions of their peers, as well as get excited for the political process. At the time of publication students were also expected to participate in a mock election hosted by Findlay Media Network on Nov. 1 in an effort to increase political engagement on campus.
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On Campus
Stay up to date on all the latest news from UF at newsroom.findlay.edu. FindlayMag | 35
Alumni Events
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Visit www.findlay.edu/homecoming to see more pictures and read about this year’s award winners.
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Inspiring Animal Stories: UF Day at Toledo Zoo & Aquarium
Upcoming Events for Alumni, Parents & Friends Dec. 11 • Cleveland Browns Tailgate Cleveland, OH Feb. 15 • COE Technology Conference Reception, Barleys, Columbus, OH Feb. 18 • Athletic Hall of Fame Winebrenner Theological Seminary, Findlay, OH Feb. 25 • Pre-Vet Reception Columbus, OH Feb. 27 • Tampa/St. Petersburg Reception, St. Petersburg, FL March 1 • Winter College, Pelican Yacht Club, Naples, FL
Making lion hammocks with firehose, tossing meat to the cats, supervising a tiger recovering from surgery, kissing a giraffe and becoming friends with a McCaw were just some of the internship stories UF animal science students Jessica Richter and Shelby True shared at UF Day at the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium. Held this September, this event gave the 81 alumni, parents and friends in attendance the opportunity to explore the zoo, hear from UF students about their personal experiences with exotic animals and see and touch some of nature’s nocturnal critters. “We enjoy any opportunity we have to bring people to the zoo,” Jeff Sailor, executive director and CEO of the Toledo Zoo and a member of the University’s Board of Counselors, told the group at the luncheon inside the zoo’s lodge next to Primate Forest. He explained that in a typical year about 70,000 people come to the zoo, and he wants them to make the most of it. After lunch and hearing from UF students, guests had the chance to meet and learn more about an armadillo, a boa and a tarantula. “This zoo is involved globally in saving animals from extinction, teaching people about these animals and providing new and great opportunities to inspire children especially about why animals are an important part of our natural world.” Inspiring people and helping them to understand animals in their habitat is something Richter, who talked with alumni and friends about her work as an intern at CARE (Center for Animal Research and Education) in Texas, wants to be able to do in her career. “I really enjoyed being able to share my experience today,” she said. “I want to educate people about what wild animals are really like, how complex they are and how vital each one is to the environment.”
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March 2 • Fort Myers Reception, Fort Myers, Florida March 11 • Mazza Exhibit Reception, National Academy of Sciences, Washington, D.C. March 24 • OHSAA Boys Basketball Breakfast Columbus, OH May 8-17 • Shades of Ireland, Travel Presentation Dublin, Ireland June 20-23 • Playwright at Niagara on the Lake Ontario, Canada For more information about these events or to register, visit www.findlay.edu/events or call the Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents & Friends at 1-800-472-9502, extension 4516, or 419-434-4516.
Class Notes 1980s Thomas L. Benjamin ’80 has a new position as the head women’s basketball coach at Springboro High School. He received his bachelor’s degree in comprehensive social studies. He currently lives in Miamisburg, Ohio.
degree in physical therapy. They currently reside in Vermilion, Ohio.
1990s Sara J. Ainsworth ’91 is now a library associate at Bowling Green State University. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Spanish. She currently lives in Bowling Green, Ohio. Kristian Campana ’96 and his wife, Julia, welcomed the birth of their son, Luca Keene, on April 7, 2016. Kristian received his bachelor’s degree in English and communication. The family resides in Oberlin, Ohio. Jennifer (Schnitz ’97) Alvarez is a self-employed financial manager. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting/ finance. She currently lives in Centreville, Virginia.
2000s Mark ’02 and Allison (Welly ‘04 M’06) Kuhnle announced the birth of their son, Lincoln Allen, on March 24, 2016. Mark received a bachelor’s degree in multi-age Spanish education, and Allison earned a master’s
Michele (Kalafsky) Spencer M’02 has started a new position as a vocational special education coordinator at Sentinel Career and Technology Center. She earned her master’s degree in special education. She currently resides in Tiffin, Ohio. Phil E. Gunder ’04, M’06 accepted a new position as the coordinator for experiential initiatives in the College of Business at the University of Findlay. He earned his undergraduate degree in education and his master’s degree in business administration. He currently resides in Findlay, Ohio. Jacquelyn (Hashbarger) Morris ‘04 is a first grade teacher at Pandora-Gilboa School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. She currently resides in Pandora, Ohio.
Ann (Hanks) Donelan ‘05 and her husband, Andrew, welcomed the birth of their son, Hank Richard, on Dec. 6, 2015. Donelan graduated with a bachelor’s degree. She and her husband reside in Independence, Kentucky. Ami (Smith) Schreiber ‘05 and her husband, Matthew, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Ansli Michelle, born on Jan. 20, 2016. Schreiber earned her bachelor’s degree in international business and Spanish. She and her family reside in Zanesville, Ohio.
Vaishali Maheshwari M’07 and her husband, Himanshu, welcomed the birth of their son, Veer Himanshu, on April 28, 2016. She earned her master’s degree in business administration. The family currently lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
Braden Kriegel ’07, M’08 and his wife, Stephanie, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Adelynn Marie, on Feb. 15, 2016. Braden earned his master’s degree in occupational therapy. They currently reside in Delphos, Ohio.
Teresa (Rhinock) Pietrzyk ‘06 and her husband, Edward, welcomed the birth of their son, Mason Douglas, on March 21, 2016. Pietrzyk earned her master’s degree in education. They currently reside in Elida, Ohio.
Kayla L. Metcalf ’09 is happy to announce the birth of her son, Luke Allen, on April 12, 2016. Metcalf graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology. She currently resides in Maumee, Ohio. Michele (Derr ’09) Stokes and her husband, Geron, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Samantha Lea, on May 29, 2016. Michelle received her bachelor’s degree in business management. The family resides in Urbana, Ohio.
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2010s Joshua A. Fox ’10 has a new position as the supply corps officer for the United States Navy. He received his bachelor’s degree in accounting. He currently resides in Florida.
received her bachelor’s degree in animal science. They currently reside in Galloway, Ohio. Stephanie (Sparrow) Sturgeon ’12 and her husband, Anthony, welcomed the birth
Maegan (Newsom) Klosterman, Pharm.D. ’13 and her husband, Jeffrey, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Mikaela Brooke, on Feb. 24, 2016. They currently reside in Brookville, Ohio.
11, 2016. Both graduated with bachelor’s degrees and currently reside in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Emily (McMains) Ripley ‘11 and her husband, Joshua welcomed the birth of their daughter, Nicole Jeanette, born on May 22, 2015. Ripley received her bachelor’s degree in health care administration. She and her family reside in Gahanna, Ohio.
Raeceen L. Daugherty ’14 started a position as phonathon, student, and young alumni program coordinator at Ohio Wesleyan University. He earned his bachelor’s degree in hospitality management. He currently resides in Worthington, Ohio. Samantha (Alt) Traucht M’11 and her husband, Lucas, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Eulalia Belle, on Nov. 6, 2015. Samantha earned her master’s degree in organizational leadership. They currently reside in Findlay, Ohio. Melissa (Lyden) Lust ‘12 and her husband, Andrew, celebrated the birth of their son Christopher Andrew, on April 15, 2016. She
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of their son, Ryan Christopher, on Feb. 14, 2016. She earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and intervention specialist. They currently reside in Springfield, Ohio. Kirstie J. Ernst ’13 has started a new position as an elementary instructional coach at Summit Academy. She earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. She currently resides in Powell, Ohio.
Kyle Pharm.D. ’14 and Katie (Willburn ’11, M’12) Dresbach welcomed the birth of their son, Kade Elsworth, on April 9, 2016. He received his doctorate in pharmacy, and she received her master’s in occupational therapy. They currently reside in Andover, Kansas. Corey ’14 and Rachael (Hammond ’12) Farley welcomed their son, Brayden William, on April
Annie Lacey M’14 and Chrisanta Masa M’16 were married on July 2, 2016. Lacey received a master’s degree in occupational therapy and Masa received a master’s degree in business administration. They currently reside in Springfield, Ohio. Kaulin C. Hooper ’15 accepted a position as staffing manager for Robert Half International. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in international business and marketing. He currently resides in Columbus, Ohio. Emily A. Momberg ’15 has started a new position as a crisis consultant/ health officer at The Link/ Behavioral Connections. She earned a bachelor’s degree in social work. She resides in North Baltimore, Ohio.
Class Notes
Cody ’16 and Ellen (Gore, Pharm.D. ’16) Thacker were married on Aug. 6, 2016. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and business management, and she received her doctorate in pharmacy. They currently reside in Evansville, Indiana.
Aaron Pharm.D. ’15 and Ashley (Callender, Pharm.D. ’15) Neidig were married on May 21, 2016. They both received their doctorates in pharmacy. They currently reside in Newark, Ohio. Lexus Renner ’15 and Sydney LeVan ’15 were married on May 13, 2016. Renner received a bachelor’s degree in English, and LeVan received a bachelor’s degree in social work. They currently reside in Toledo, Ohio. Tyler ’15 and Megan Talbert ’16 were married May 21, 2016. He received a bachelor’s degree in religious studies, and she received a bachelor’s degree in art. They currently reside in Findlay, Ohio.
Class notes for this issue were received by Sept. 2, 2016.
In Memory
1980s
1950s Fred Russel Adams ’50 July 12, 2016
Karen D. (Bechtol) AbbottLahey ’88 April 23, 2016
Thomas Farley ’54 May 18, 2016
Friends
1960s
Dr. Richard F. Gottier May 20, 2016
Timothy Alan Bell ’81 Aug. 9, 2016
William Wayne Jellema H’68 Aug. 8, 2016 Darla (Swartz) Ritchey ’65 July 10, 2016
1970s George William Fries ’71 July 22, 2016
The following passages were shared with the University of Findlay for publication. Dr. C. Darrel Prichard ’55 died on June 16, 2016
after having Alzheimer’s. He graduated from Findlay College with a Bachelor of Science before going on to earn a Bachelor of Divinity degree from Winebrenner Theological Seminary in 1959. He was a pastor of several churches before becoming the senior pastor for College First Church of God. He served as administrator of the Ohio Conference of the Churches of God and president of the Foundation of the Great Lakes Conference. He was a member of the University of Findlay Board of Trustees from 1993 to 2009.
He is survived by his wife, Alberta; three daughters, Marsha, Pam and Deb; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
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Michael Vernau died on Aug. 21, 2016 at his home in Findlay. Vernau studied his master’s in early childhood education at the University of Findlay. He played baseball and was a follower of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. Vernau loved to skateboard and play Fantasy Football. He was a lead sales consultant with Best Buy in Findlay. Delbert L. Latta H’88 died on May 21, 2016. He attended Findlay College for two years before transferring to Ohio Northern University. In 1988, Latta received an honorary doctorate in laws from the University of Findlay. He served in the Ohio National Guard, U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps Reserve from the 1930s to 1940s. He ran successfully for the Ohio Senate and served three two-year terms at the statehouse. He served in Congress for 15 years where he wrote legislation which served as key economic influencers during President Ronald Reagan’s terms. Mariann Younger H’08 died on July 17, 2016. A longtime supporter of the Mazza Museum, Younger trained with the first class of Mazza Docents and was one of the nine people on the first board of directors for Mazza enthusiasts. She was deeply involved with everything at the Museum from picking up artists at the airport, participating in
42 | Fall 2016
conferences with authors and artists, reading books at Funday Sunday and even opening her home to share her own personal picture book art collection. She provided funding in order to increase staff, campaigned for the addition to the Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion and sponsored the first Funday Sunday program. The Dana Younger Gallery was named in her honor. She was awarded an honorary doctorate of fine arts in 2008 from the University of Findlay.
Richard (Dick) Krauss ’50 died on Oct. 2, 2016. After graduating from Findlay College with a bachelor’s in education and business, Krauss taught and coached basketball at Holgate High School, served as principal at Liberty Center High School and was later named superintendent of Deshler Schools. He became the first superintendent of Patrick Henry Local Schools retiring
in 1979. He then spent 10 years teaching education at University of Findlay, also coaching basketball, golf and softball during that time. His love of sports led him to his involvement with the Northwest District Athletic Board where he served as secretary of the board for 46 years. He received honors from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, UF Athletic Hall of Fame, District 7 Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame, and the Hancock County Sports Hall of Fame. He was a member of St. Andrew’s Methodist Church, Ohio Education Association and the University of Findlay Oilers and Cager Clubs. He and his wife Donna, who survives, were recognized at the University’s President’s Leadership Society reception in 2016 with the Lifetime Achievement Award for 40 years consecutive giving to the University. Krauss is also survived by his children, Rick, Dave, Doug and Lisa and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
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End Notes Dear Alumni & Friends, As I look back on the first year of my term as president of the UF Alumni Association I am very thankful for the opportunity to serve this outstanding University. Attending many alumni events over the past year, I enjoyed the opportunity to meet many UF alumni and their families. Thanks so much to all of you who have assisted me throughout the year by giving me your support and encouragement. I hope many of you followed the orange brick road and found your way back home to campus during homecoming this fall. The Annual Alumni Association Breakfast again this year was an amazing event. I would like to congratulate the following award winners: Jacob Froning ’64, Ph.D.; William McIntosh ’91, M’09; Robert Nichols ’61, Bruce Ritter ’90 and Ron Tulley, Ph.D., M’04; recipient of the Arch Award, Diana Montague, Ph.D.; recipient of the Old Main Award, Suzanne (Lifer) Surowiec, Pharm.D. ’13; and recipient of the Gold Medallion Award, the late Anne Bacon ’00, M’13. All of these individuals are very deserving of the awards bestowed upon them. We are thankful to receive excellent nominations each year for these awards. If you wish to nominate someone for next year’s awards, nomination forms are available at www.findlay.edu/ AlumniNominations, or by calling 419-434-4516. This fall, the Alumni Association Board of Governors welcomed new board members Nicole Busey ’99 and Margaret Wetzler ’92. I’m also pleased to announce a new chapter of alumni, the Marathon Petroleum Corporation UF Alumni Chapter. Thank you to Nicole Busey, tax audit and legal manager at Marathon Petroleum Corporation for her efforts in establishing this group. We are also in the early stages of establishing a UF Ohio vehicle license plate program. I also want to acknowledge, Generation Orange or GO!, another active segment of alumni, encompassing graduates of the last decade. We appreciate their young energy and assistance with events such as graduation and homecoming. GO! also hosts many fun and exciting social events which provide fellowship and professional networking opportunities. Visit generationorange. findlay.edu to learn more. As we come into the holiday gift giving season, I encourage you to do three things: first, give of your heart to family and friends, second, give of your time to a cause you believe in and third, if you are able, please consider giving financially to the University of Findlay. It is through these gifts that many more students will have productive lives and meaningful careers. Best wishes to all of you this holiday season! With Oiler Pride,
Alumni Association Board of Governors 2016-17 Officers President: Kelly (Zink) Ernst ’03 Vice President: Kim (Heaster) Rozelle ’88 Past President: Julie (Dean) McIntosh ’90 Elected Representatives (3 year terms) Nicole Busey ’99 Mike Clouse ’96, M’06 Mark Cosiano ’07 Liz Ditto ’81 Susan Hite ’87 Jennia (Jenkins) Knestrick ’94 Mike Murphy ’72 Ryan Smith ’00, M’07 Teresa (McIntosh) Steed ’92 Margaret Wetzler ’92 DeMya Wimberly ’94 Kevin Wolfe ’94 Appointed Representatives (2 year terms) Suzzette Boyd ’97 Tom Jakubiec ’73 Lucas Opperman ’14 Dean Plott ’93 Tejas Vyas ’14 Alumni Trustee Mark Cosiano ’07 Representatives to Trustee Committees Academic Affairs: Mark Cosiano ’07 Business Affairs: Tom Jakubiec ’73 Enrollment Management: Susan Hite ’87
Kelly (Zink) Ernst ’03, President Alumni Association Board of Governors
Student Affairs: Kelly (Zink) Ernst ’03 University Advancement: Kim (Heaster) Rozelle ’88
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