FindlayMag Summer 2016

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Summer 2016

Bolstering Experiential Learning Opportunities Alumni as Mentors, Employers, Teachers and Field Leaders

From the President Vol. 102, No. 2, Summer 2016

The discussion of what makes a meaningful life is always especially lively as graduation approaches. Our recent 2016 commencement ceremonies saw about 1,090 graduate and undergraduate students continue their journey toward what makes life meaningful for them. Attending these ceremonies each year reinforces my belief that all of us can choose to play a significant role in helping students find their purpose.

This issue of FindlayMag focuses on how alumni have stepped forward to guide and nurture UF students and new graduates. There’s Missy Thyfault ’91, who mentors and employs western equestrian students at her performance horse business in Shelby, Ohio. Ginger Sampson ’95, deputy auditor for the City of Findlay, along with her entire financial department, offers hands-on experience to accounting students. Mark Inkrott ’02, a mentor and entrepreneur, has introduced UF students and graduates to his unique business working with the agriculture and sports industries. Alumni of the College of Education will also enjoy the story about Ron and Duane Philipp ‘59, a two-man team helping thousands of students meet the criteria for graduating and obtaining a teaching license.

Could there be greater satisfaction than knowing that you’ve helped someone realize their potential? The examples in this publication portray just a few of the ways that alumni have given our students an advantage when it comes to succeeding in a career and in life. If you would like to be involved in this rewarding endeavor, please contact my office.

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 Photographer Anne Risser Lee Writers Barbara Lockard M’02 Joy Shaw Nick Thompson ’16 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 24

Page 12

Page 38

Summer 2016

Features 4 | Creating Winners Together

Equine Alumnae Train Performance Horses

By Barb Lockard M’02

8 | Strength in Numbers

Accounting Students Mentored by Alumnae

By Nick Thompson ’16

12 | Alumnus Starts Agri-Sports Business

Staying Connected to the UF Community from Chicago

By Joy Shaw

Departments 16 | Donor Impact 24 | On Campus 34 | Class Notes 38 | Alumni Events 39 | End Notes

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4 | Summer 2016

Equine Alumnae Train Performance Horses

By Barb Lockard M’02

issy Thyfault ’91 and Maggie Howell ’12 could almost pass for college classmates. In reality, they graduated 21 years apart. Thyfault and Howell spend most of their days and evenings together, working, driving, teaching and pursuing what is a passion for them both, training horses.

“In this business, you need an assistant that you can rely on and that’s Maggie,” said Thyfault, owner of Thyfault’s Performance Horses in Shelby, Ohio. “My goal with employees is to have them grow and be successful and move up in the industry. I’d like Maggie to stay as long as possible, but I’ll be excited for her when she does move on.”

Growing up in Momence, Illinois, Thyfault wasn’t from an equestrian family, but developed “horse fever” as a child. Her interest never waned, and when it came time to choose a college, she opted for the University of Findlay and its Western Equestrian Program. “UF was the first and only school I visited,” she remembered. “I knew immediately that I didn’t want to go anywhere else.”

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in western equestrian studies and a minor in equine business management, Thyfault took a position training for a client she had met as a student. “I had to prove to him I could do the work and he, in turn, invested in my training,” she added. “We all have rough patches because it isn’t easy, but no one ever told me it was going to be easy. It’s a business where hard work is rewarded.”

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In the years since graduation, Thyfault has had notable success as a trainer and rider. She won the two-year-old hunter under saddle division at the National Quarter Horse Congress in 2003 and was a high point limited rider for the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA). She’s also logged multiple reserve champions and many top tens. The notoriety has gained her many clients and the need for knowledgeable interns and employees.

“Whenever I need help, I always go to UF,” Thyfault explained. She finds that UF equestrian graduates are

Missy Thyfault '91

prepared to give the job what it takes with experience in showing, riding colts and barn management. “The University of Findlay has a very good placement rate,” she noted.

Maggie Howell and Missy Thyfault “clicked” after Maggie’s graduation in 2012. A dual-major in western equestrian studies and equine business management, Howell had an initiation to horses similar to Thyfault’s. A native of Baltimore, Ohio, Maggie started riding and showing at age 11.

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“We all have rough patches because it isn’t easy, but no one ever told me it was going to be easy. It’s a business where hard work is rewarded.”

– Missy Thyfault ’91.

Maggie Howell '12

Although she looked at another university, the University of Findlay just stood out for her. The women spend much of their time outside the show ring in sand, mud and manure, but their eyes light up when they talk of their vocation.

As an assistant trainer, Howell is making a name for herself and recently became a Tom Powers Futurity Champion. Tom Powers is one of the largest and longest running pleasure horse futurities. While riding for owners, the

women also haul many youth and amateurs around Ohio so they can reach their high point goals.

In addition to hiring UF equestrian graduates, Thyfault established a relationship with the University of Findlay that has extended far past her graduation date. She received all of her initial customer contacts through the University. Her son, Max Van Fleet, rides reining horses and has trained with Art O’Brien, an instructor at the western farm. He has shown UF horses in reining competitions during the summer.

While attending UF, Thyfault appreciated the

advanced her business. Howell has similar feelings about her alma mater. She made many friends at UF. Most have been successful at pursuing careers in the horse industry, or in graduate school.

Both women are happy with the volume of business.

(At this writing, they have 21 horses at the Shelby farm.)

They work mainly in the tri-state area of Ohio, Indiana and Michigan, but have also ridden and shown in North Carolina, Oklahoma and Texas. They are focusing on raising the quality of their training to the next level.

accessibility of faculty and the smaller college atmosphere.

Even with spending many hours at the barn, she felt she had a diverse group of friends. “I’d spend about half of my time at the barn. After that, I would associate with the ‘nonequestrian’ people on campus,” she laughed. Thyfault feels that she owes much of her success in the equine world to the University of Findlay. She considers her former instructors mentors who have helped her make connections that have

“Yes, there are jobs in this business, but it’s hard work,” Thyfault said. “If you figure your hourly wage, maybe you’re not making a lot of money. But I don’t do it for the money and neither does Maggie. It’s our passion, something we knew we would do from a very young age.”

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Accounting Students Mentored by Alumnae

By Nick Thompson ’16 he initial experiences students have in the first job of their careers can drastically impact their success as professionals. Most college majors now require an internship or a form of professional development in order to graduate. This experience can establish professional connections for students and those connections may also become mentors to them during this nerve-racking beginning of their career.

“There is so much to learn that you can’t in the classroom. Experiential learning enables you to connect different aspects and knowledge from class to real life scenarios,” said Brittany Reese, a finance and managerial accounting major from Ellendale, Minnesota who interned for Findlay’s deputy auditor in 2016.

Understanding the importance of forming these experiences and mentorships, the Accounting Program at the University of Findlay established a networking opportunity for all of its students through a mentorship program. “The mentoring program started when faculty saw a need for students to grow their education in a way that only people in the accounting profession could help,” said Doug Asbury, CPA, who founded the program for accounting students. His philosophy was simple: match current students with alumni and have a conversation. “It was an immediate success.

Students were amazed by the help that their mentors could offer and the mentors were impressed to meet accounting

students that were interested in learning and willing to step out of the box.”

Matching current students and alumni has blossomed into internship opportunities and job offers. Patricia Abels, D.B.A., CPA, associate professor of business, continues to offer the program each year. In the 2015-16 academic year, 30 students worked with 17 alumni employed by local organizations. “The experience of having a professional mentor who is a Findlay alumnus greatly affects the education of these students and ultimately their careers,” said Abels.

One of the mentors in the program is the deputy auditor for the City of Findlay, Ginger (Smith) Sampson ’95, who graduated with a degree in accounting and finance. Recalling back to when she was a student, she explained professional experience was not a requirement or even a focal point in her education. “The internship opportunities were not necessarily as available or embraced when I was in college,” said Sampson. “When the program started, I thought it was a great idea for alumni to get involved because students really need this experience to be prepared for their careers.”

Sampson and her entire financial department—which includes three other Findlay alumnae, Carolyn (Chase) Ehrnschwender ’80, specializing in payroll and employee benefits; Amy (Foltz) Baird ’97, specializing in accounts receivable and fixed assets; and Susan Hite ’87, city treasurer— have implemented the program into their daily operations.

Ginger (Smith) Sampson '95 and Makalia Schultz FindlayMag | 9

“This office has really embraced the mentorship program because we want to see our fellow Findlay graduates be successful in their careers,” Ehrnschwender said in an interview.

In addition to Reese, accounting students Taylor Trice and Makalia Schultz have worked with Sampson and her team. Though they have different personalities, experiences, and career goals, they all learned the importance and effectiveness of teamwork in the office.

Trice, a women’s lacrosse student athlete from Louisville, Kentucky explained that her experience working with Sampson and team through the mentorship program illustrated the cohesion and unity of working together. “Oftentimes the idea of teamwork can only be hypothetically experienced in the classroom in group projects with fellow students,” said Trice. “In lacrosse, teamwork doesn’t come without weeks of training and practicing in real-game situations and scrimmages. Every task or assignment in the office was done correctly and efficiently because Ginger’s team communicates and simply works well together, a lesson I’ve learned to now apply to my accounting career.”

A native of Carleton, Michigan, Schultz had the ability to fine-tune skills she learned from courses in the Accounting Program after her experiences in the mentorship program. “Practicing something in the classroom can only get you so far,” said Schultz.

“Because I was able to work in Ginger’s office, I was able to apply these skills on a day-today basis and really gain a better understanding of what I was learning in a professional setting.”

As an alumnus, many do not recognize they can play an inspiring and impactful role in a student’s experience. However, simply being a mentor can truly do just that. “Having

Brittany Reese and Carolyn (Chase) Ehrnschwender '80

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a Findlay alumna be my mentor really makes me appreciate going to a small institution even more,” said Reese. “Not only did Ginger tremendously help me to get my next internship, but I was able to connect with Ginger about similar courses, professors, and experiences at the University which really confirmed my belief that I chose the right school to attend.”

By having Reese, Trice and Schultz work in her office, Sampson also found a way to give back to the University of Findlay in her own way. “As a parent trying to prepare for my kids to go through college, I can’t really make a large monetary gift to the University,” said Sampson. “Seeing that discovery process of these students finding their passions, growing as professionals, and knowing I played a role in their college experience is indescribably rewarding.”

As Reese, Trice and Schultz move on to their next endeavors as alumnae, their experiences in and out of the classroom perfectly exemplify the caliber of this institution’s educational programs and experiential learning opportunities that are provided and available for students to receive, grow and develop into the professionals they desire to become.

UF Students Can Benefit From Your Experience Alumni can play an inspiring and impactful role on the student experience. Inspire prospective and current students as a UF Brand Ambassador. We recognize that not only our alumni but also our supporters are an asset to the University’s reputation.

Be a UF Brand Ambassador!

As an official member of this program you will receive free UF swag with the new University logo, be invited to share your Findlay and/ or career experience with prospective Oilers and have the opportunity to offer potential experiential learning opportunities to UF students. Your invaluable and authentic knowledge could impact a future Oiler’s college decision. If you’re interested in becoming a UF Brand Ambassador visit www.findlay.edu/UFBrandAmbassador to complete the sign up form.

Sampson and Taylor Trice

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Staying Connected to the UF Community from Chicago

By Joy Shaw While growing up in Glandorf, Ohio, Mark Inkrott earned some of his first dollars under the hot sun while the tractor did its steady, methodical crawl back and forth across the fields. “Both sides of my family have roots in agriculture so I grew up around it. I baled straw as a summer job, would visit my grandfather’s farm and get into the tractors, the barns, pretty much what every kid who grew up in the country did,” he said.

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But not every kid grows up to play professional football, let alone combine their interests to launch a niche business that serves both people and the land, as Inkrott who graduated in 2002 has. Additionally, his strong commitment to his college community as a University of Findlay alumnus has created networking, mentoring and hiring opportunities that continue to help existing students as they forge their own career paths.

Inkrott is the co-founder of Chicago-based UpField Group, which describes itself as “an agri-sports consulting and marketing firm specializing in the facilitation of farm to stadium programs.” In layman’s terms, he, along with co-founder Chad Ward, a childhood friend, help farmers get their products into the hands—and mouths—of professional sports fans, and educate those fans about where their stadium food came from. The company also promotes sustainable farming practices FindlayMag FindlayMag| | 13

“When we find a student that wants to learn, wants to get better and is willing to step out of their comfort zone and come to Chicago to a networking event or job shadow with us, that’s a student that will potentially provide value to our company someday and to the University of Findlay as well.”

– Mark Inkrott ’02

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and stadium operations that are kind to the earth and utilize renewable energy; they’re champions of methods such as wind power and food waste recycling.

The monetary connection between sports and food is substantial. “Sports sponsorship revenue in the U.S. alone is in excess of $15 billion,” Inkrott noted. “Many of the companies are food and beverage brands, thus, agriculture groups are well positioned to partner with these companies because food and beverages ultimately come from a farm.” But people are increasingly wanting to become more informed about the products they’re consuming, too. “Sports fans, whether at home or attending a game, want to know more than ever where their food comes from, how it’s produced and who produced it,” he continued. “Sports venues and sports media provide excellent platforms for that story to be told.”

“Agri-sports” is a relatively new term, but for Inkrott, it’s a professional pursuit that makes sense, given his agricultural experiences and love for football. He played throughout high school, at UF and for the Carolina Panthers and the New York Giants. “There is something special about physically and mentally exhausting yourself in an effort to win. When you put in the amount of time and effort it requires to win, make the sacrifices and put your body through everything it can withstand, and you look to your side and your best friend and teammate is sharing that moment with you, that’s what I love about football,” he said. His eloquent answer also illustrates his rhetorical talent. Inkrott earned his bachelor’s degree in English with an emphasis in creative writing and has leveraged those skills, along with the discipline and camaraderie he developed on the field, to build UpField.

“Communications and marketing at their core are about conversations; people talking to other people about their products and services,” he explained. “Business, much like football, is about people.

The connection between food and fans wasn’t noticed by Inkrott until after his football career. He took a position with Dairy Management Inc. (DMI), where he managed a national partnership with the NFL. He also became interested in agriculture from a business perspective after meeting with the National Dairy Council Board of Directors, he said. “These farmers were from all over the country, were experts at their trade, passionate, smart, and were people who shared similar values,” he noted.

Those who professionally connect with Inkrott—and many from UF have—learn about how he developed his business and why he thinks what he does is important. While at DMI, “after reviewing proposals from every sports company in the country asking for sponsorship dollars, I realized there was a serious disconnect between how farmers and those of

us in the industry talked about agriculture, and how those that said. Mentoring is also something that Inkrott considers an were not part of the two percent (percentage of Americans essential component to professional success. “Mentoring UF who are agricultural workers) talked about agriculture, so we students is important for our university culture. Students need set out to close that gap and help companies not in agriculture mentors, but unfortunately most will not seek them out. When better understand how to speak the same nomenclature and we find a student that wants to learn, wants to get better and is ultimately provide value to an ag company,” he explained. willing to step out of their comfort zone and come to Chicago Inkrott’s work days are therefore varied. In addition to to a networking event or job shadow with us, that’s a student ag-consulting, the company also has a sports division that that will potentially provide value to our company someday, builds partnerships with new businesses to grow revenue for and to the University of Findlay as well,” he pointed out. their clients. Fuel Up to Play 60, a school-based program in Additional knowledge, drive and grit are keys to entering 80,000 schools across the and succeeding in the country is one of their highly competitive field clients. The program was of sports, both on and created by America’s Dairy particularly off the field Farmers and the NFL to in business, said Inkrott, encourage students to be who is more than willing active for 60 minutes each to be that information day and practice healthy provider, albeit, perhaps, in eating habits. During a humbler way than many. last year’s Super Bowl, “The goal with mentoring UpField Group activated is usually to provide value client partners for the where we can, which is NFL Alumni Association, usually in sharing all the another of their sports mistakes I’ve made and clients. “There are literally hopefully steering them hundreds of events away from making the happening over the course same mistakes,” he said. of Super Bowl week that UpField is hiring we may be engaged in,” summer interns for the he said. first time, he added.

Inkrott also makes an “It will be a new Partner Mark Inkrott ’02, Partnership Coordinator Libby Stults ’14 and Partner effort to regularly return endeavor for us as well Chad Ward to UF and attend alumni as an opportunity for our events off-campus too, he partnership coordinator said. He keeps in touch with former professors such as Donald and UF graduate, Libby Stults ’14, to take on additional Collins, adjunct psychology professor, and Chris Ward, Ed.D., responsibilities in managing the interns,” he maintained. Stults business professor, and visits with former football coach Dick earned her bachelor’s degree in sport and event management.

Strahm when he can. He praised former classmate Phil Inkrott said he met her on campus while he was a guest Gunder, UF’s director of co-curricular programs, for “creating lecturer, stayed connected with her for another two years, a networking environment around the Oiler’s spring football and hired her last summer. Expanding the business to include game” and for providing other networking opportunities for interns not only gives those students real-world experience, but current students. it exposes them to a unique and growing industry and a team Lately, UpField Group has been collaborating with that’s passionate about educating people about the food students of Scott Grant, UF’s assistant professor of business they eat. and director of the Sport and Event Management Program.

The students have been assisting the company with marketing For more information on UpField tactics for one of its clients. “It’s great for both sides, we think, because the students are getting real life experiential learning Group, visit www.upfieldgroup.com. opportunities, and we are able to evaluate UF’s talent,” Inkrott

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Donor Impact Be Involved with University of Findlay When students walk through the Griffith Memorial Arch at commencement, we hope their next steps will lead them to success in the field for which their Findlay education has prepared them. We want them to follow their passions and find a niche based on their interests and backgrounds just as Mark Inkrott ’02 did as featured in this issue. Our alumni are truly an inspiration and an example to students of the culmination of their experiences inside and outside the classroom. It is so exciting for me to see the work our alumni are doing in the world and especially to see that so many of them are staying connected with the University of Findlay.

Alumni, as well as parents and friends of the University, can play an inspiring and impactful role on the student experience at this University.

There are so many ways to be involved both on campus and from a distance, whether it’s providing internships or mentoring students in your field, speaking to prospective students, or simply sharing your UF experiences with others. You can play a role in the future and the success of the University of Findlay.

When George Whitson and his wife Shirlee, who founded Whitson Properties in northwest Ohio, shared with me their intentions to support not only the new Center for Student Life and College of Business building but also to offer internships and experiential learning opportunities to hospitality management students, we were thrilled. Experiential learning opportunities like these give our students the skills they need to succeed in the real world and the new building will become a new focal point of this campus that brings students together.

Now that we’ve broken ground on this new facility, we look forward to sharing with you its progress and seeing the difference it will make on our campus when it opens in 2017.

In Oiler Pride,

Support Future UF Grads Your gift to the University of Findlay—no matter the amount—supports an education that leads students to meaningful lives and productive careers.

Contact us at 419-434-5856 or give online and make a difference to students today!

Give online at

Marcia Sloan Latta, Ed.D. Vice President for University Advancement 16 | Summer 2016

give.findlay.edu

Reconnecting With Findlay: George Drummond ’65

George Drummond ’65 with Odell Barry ’65, Virgil Cobb ’65, A.R. Charnes ’66 and Mary Ann Charnes at Homecoming and Family Weekend 2015

When he came back to campus for the 50th Reunion of the Class of 1965 last fall, George Drummond could not believe how much Findlay had changed. He had the opportunity to tour the facilities along with Marty Terry ’66, Odell Barry ’65, Virgil Cobb ’65 and other friends he’d made while a student at Findlay College.

“After high school, I’d originally planned to work at an amusement park,” said Drummond, thinking back. He was a wrestler and a football player in high school, and instead, his father worked with his coach to find him a scholarship at Findlay College. “If it weren’t for the scholarship I wouldn’t have been able to attend college,” he said. He joined the football team as a tackle and played with Terry, Barry, Cobb and others. The team had a record of 7-2 in 1965 and 9-2 in 1964 when they qualified for the NAIA playoffs for the first time in school history.

Drummond credits several professors for helping him to succeed in completing his degree including Professor Selma Hill, Wilfred Black, Ph.D., and others. His professors encouraged him to study elementary education where he was among the minority of men in the field. After graduation he enjoyed teaching at the elementary level in Ohio and also teaching drivers’ education in Virginia before transitioning to a career as district chief parole officer in Virginia. He worked as a “jailer on the outside” for 27 years covering 10 counties.

“The education I received at Findlay made everything I was able to do in my career possible,” said Drummond. “It never would have happened if I’d gone to work at Six Flags in Texas.”

The support Drummond received from scholarships inspires him to give back to students in the same situation, and when he retired, his resources became more fluid. He had made gifts to the University of Findlay in the past and thought about making a larger gift but wasn’t sure of the best way. After Marty Terry recommended he talk with Jaclyn Schalk, Ed.D., director of gift planning, about giving in honor of his reunion, he learned that he could transfer stock directly to the University and avoid capital gains tax. “It was an easy way to give back that didn’t involve contacting an attorney,” said Drummond. His stock gift established the George W. ’65 and sons, Christopher and Robert Drummond Football Scholarship. “When I was in school I had to work a number of jobs. The scholarship will allow students to buy books, pay for housing and more without having to work extra jobs.”

Save the Date Oct. 14-15, 2016 Get Ready to Celebrate!

This fall, we’ll celebrate the reunions of the classes of 1966, 1976 and 1991 during Homecoming and Family Weekend.

Support current students at University of Findlay by giving online at give.findlay.edu in honor of your reunion.

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Do you know a veteran who attended Findlay?

Honoring Our Veterans

In an effort to ensure all veterans who have attended Findlay College or University of Findlay are included, we need your help!

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of their graduation from Findlay College, the Class of 1966 Reunion Committee is leading an effort to fundraise for a project to honor past, present and future students of Findlay College and the University of Findlay who have served in the military. This gift from members of the class of 1966 will support the creation of a recognition wall in honor of these veterans in the new Center for Student Life and College of Business building.

“Many of our parents and relatives served in World War II or the Korean War, and we ourselves graduated during the Vietnam era. All of us have an awareness of what men and women sacrifice when they serve in our armed forces,” said A.R. Charnes ’66, chair of the reunion committee and the University of Findlay Board of Trustees. “As a committee we feel honoring the veterans that have attended Findlay College or University of Findlay will allow us to show our admiration, respect and appreciation for their service.”

Gifts to the project will create a permanent place to recognize and honor veterans on campus and represent the past and ongoing sacrifices made by members of the military who have attended this institution. Alumni who are interested in supporting the project may do so online at give.findlay.edu.

Complete this form to share your information for our records and mail to Attn: Advancement Services, University of Findlay, 1000 N. Main St., Findlay, OH 45840.

Complete the form online at www.findlay.edu/HonoringOurVeterans.

Your Name_____________________________ Daytime Phone_________________________ Email___________________________________ Mailing Address________________________ City ____________________________________ State _______________ ZIP______________ Name of Veteran________________________ ________________________________________

Branch of Military Service ________________________________________

Years Served____________________________ Years Attended Findlay College or University of Findlay __________________ Name of Veteran________________________ ________________________________________

Branch of Military Service ________________________________________

Years Served____________________________ Years Attended Findlay College or University of Findlay __________________ Name of Veteran________________________ ________________________________________

Branch of Military Service ________________________________________

Years Served____________________________ Years Attended Findlay College or University of Findlay __________________

Conceptual Renderings

Donor Impact

Whitsons Give Half Million to New Building and Hospitality Management Program

Photo by Anna Nguyen

George Whitson, University of Findlay trustee emeritus, and his wife Shirlee, along with Whitson Properties, have made a commitment of $520,000 to support the new Center for Student Life and College of Business as well as the Hospitality Management Program at University of Findlay. The announcement was made in February at the University’s Winter College event held in Naples, Florida.

“We want to leave a strong legacy in this community, and this is a place we know we can make an impact,” said George Whitson, who became a trustee in 1992 and served until 2008 when he became trustee emeritus. “The new building will enhance the College of Business and offer opportunities to UF students. The advanced technology will attract students to the University.”

George and his wife Shirlee, founded Whitson Properties, a real estate investment and development company in Findlay, Ohio in 1965.

In honor of the gift, the University will name the Dr. George M. and

Shirlee J. Whitson Grand Auditorium and the Whitson Properties Board Conference and Seminar Room in the new building. Whitson Properties has also pledged $20,000 to support the Business Affiliates Scholarship Program to assist students in Hancock County as part of this commitment.

“I applaud students who want to enter the business profession and want to see them succeed,” said George Whitson. In his own life, Whitson found business to be a great and rewarding profession. “Business is a driving force in this country,” he added. In the 1960s, Whitson left a position as real estate manager with Marathon Oil Company, and began his own real estate and development company. Over the past 50 years, Whitson Properties has developed service stations, restaurants, hotels, and other businesses along Interstate 75 from Ohio to Kentucky. Whitson feels fortunate for his success with the company and wants young people today and in the future to have the same opportunities.

A portion of the half milliondollar commitment will also create the Whitson Family Hospitality Endowment Fund at UF. The new fund allows students to participate in internships with Whitson Properties including three hotels in the Findlay area. “Students will be able to find out what the industry is all about,” said Whitson. The fund will also provide support for other experiential learning opportunities, seminars, speakers and programming for the hospitality management program.

“Hands-on experience allows students to find out if their major will work for them,” said Whitson.

The Whitsons see the University as a critical part of the Findlay community.

“I’m proud to be a trustee emeritus,” said Whitson. “University of Findlay has the qualities every university ought to have. We’ve been able to see the University grow and mature over the last several years. More people have become aware of the University because of the quality of its academics, the safety of the campus and its competitive sports teams. It’s an easy decision to give back to a university that means so much to the community and has such a great future.”

“I applaud students who want to enter the business profession and want to see them succeed.”

– George Whitson.

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A Gift in Memory: Instilling a Passion for Patient Care

Earl DeLong, a 1948 graduate of Findlay College, says that on his first date with his late wife Gladys, he took her dancing. “She liked to dance,” DeLong explained, “but she was used to leading.” Gladys DeLong found many ways to act as a leader in her life, from her career as nurse, to her work as a volunteer, and even making all the travel plans for both of them. It was her nursing background that inspired Earl to honor her memory with a scholarship for nursing students at the University of Findlay.

As a nurse, Gladys DeLong knew how to get things done.

“She was very forceful,” Earl said. “She knew what to do and how to do it.” For 13 years, she worked as a registered nurse at Mercy Hospital in Tiffin and then spent 17 years at the state hospital now known as Tiffin Developmental Center.

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DeLong explained that the doctors there relied on her to assist in decisions about patient care. As a nurse she often spent more time with the patients than the doctors and had the training and knowledge to make sure patients received the attention they needed. Like many nurses at that time, Gladys first became a nurse during World War II. She served in the Navy Nurse Corps and was recognized for her service at the dedication of the Women in Military Service For America Memorial in Washington D.C. in 1997. After she retired, Gladys continued to work as a volunteer at Mercy Hospital and the Bloodmobile as well as the YMCA and Ritz Theatre in Tiffin, Ohio.

When Jaclyn Schalk, director of gift planning at UF, told Earl about Findlay’s Nursing Program, established

Donor Impact

in 2014, he knew he’d found a way to honor Gladys’ memory. He created the Gladys L. DeLong Memorial Nursing Scholarship through immediate gifts of stock and a charitable gift annuity (CGA). Having made gifts through CGAs in the past, Earl knew that he wanted to receive annuity payments during his lifetime, but he wanted to ensure students in the Nursing Program would benefit now.

By making immediate gifts to the scholarship in addition to the CGA he was able to ensure the scholarship will support students right away.

“This scholarship means so much to our students and their families,” said Marjorie Walker, Ed.D., chair of nursing at UF. “It will help students be successful by alleviating some of the financial burden of higher education and allowing them to focus on acquiring knowledge, skills and clinical judgment abilities instead of working to supplement the cost of their education.”

After he had made the gift, “I received a card with 25 names,” DeLong said with a smile. In fact, students from the first class of the nursing program sent him a card to thank him for his support. He’s also been able to meet with Walker and see the nursing lab where students practice their skills in the Davis Street Building.

Over the years, DeLong and his wife have made many gifts to the University of Findlay including gifts to the Findlay Fund, the Phil Gardner Fitness Center, the DeLong Creativity and Presentation Room in Old Main, the new Center for Student Life and College of Business building, and many more. Now, he plans to continue to give to this new scholarship to honor his wife’s commitment to nursing and patient care and instill that same passion in Findlay students. “The students in the nursing major are committed and caring, and they want to provide the type of nursing care that impacts peoples’ lives,” said Walker.

Walker works with a student in the nursing lab.

For more information on how you can create a charitable gift annuity or estate provision to support future students at the University of Findlay contact Jaclyn Schalk at schalk@findlay.edu or 419-434-4794.

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Illustrating “Mazza from A to Z”: A Blending of Philanthropic Passions

During the spring semester, Joseph and Judith Conda had the opportunity to sit down with Jenny Hanf, a senior studying art at UF with a major in children’s book illustration. Hanf is the illustrator for a children’s book that the Mazza Museum put together. For the Condas, who live in Perrysburg, Ohio, this was a chance to see the illustrations Hanf had created for a book and an organization that blends many of their philanthropic passions.

When Joseph Conda told Mazza Museum Director Benjamin Sapp that he wanted to make a gift that would honor his wife Judith’s lifelong commitment to education, Sapp shared with him the plans for “Mazza from A to Z.” “I see the book as an introduction to the Mazza Museum as well as museums and art in general,” said Judith Conda. Hanf ’s artwork illustrates the experience of going to the Museum while taking the readers through the alphabet, including viewing artwork, learning from the docents, story time and

22 | Summer 2016

more. The visitors and staff of the Museum are seen as animals that children can connect with.

“Even though Jenny doesn’t know them, we see some of the characteristics of our docents and staff in the animals,” said Sapp, including a docent as an owl and an alligator as museum founder Jerry Mallett. “The Conda’s gift will allow Mazza to publish and print the book so that the children, classes and families who visit the Museum can purchase it at an affordable price,” said Sapp. “This souvenir will add to the museum experience, making it possible to relive the visit over and over again. The small profit made on the book sales will replenish the fund to republish the book year after year.”

The Condas considered a number of philanthropic proposals, but giving to the Mazza Museum had great longevity and value to them. “We chose Mazza because it’s educational, sustainable and has value for all children and even adults,” they said. “We always try to look for

Donor Impact

Scholarships Extending Opportunities sustainability. Some things come and go as well as change over time, but in our view the Museum is very sustainable and has a huge opportunity for impact,” said Joseph Conda, executive vice president for H.D. Smith, a national wholesaler in the healthcare distribution industry. “Even as we shift toward electronic mediums, literature will always be important. Visual learning is key,” Judith and Joseph added together.

“I didn’t appreciate the full value of illustration, of what a story would be without it until I visited the Mazza Museum,” said Judith. “You can read the book through just by looking at the illustrations.” For many years Judith was an educator in Wood County, but it wasn’t until after her daughter organized a trip for the Toledo Museum of Art Ambassadors that she had the opportunity to tag along and visit the Mazza Museum. “After that, I was hooked,” she said. “I wanted to share what an incredible place this is with people that I know.” Judith has since been to the Museum for tours as well as special events including the Mazza Summer Conference, where participants hear Mazza artists share personal stories about their work and enjoy pull-out sessions on topics in literature, education, writing, illustration and behind the scenes at the Museum.

“The Mazza blends our passions for education and culture. We’re at a point in our lives where we’ve been involved with a number of nonprofits, but we want to begin to focus our impact,” Joseph and Judith explained together.

“It’s another way to connect people to learning. A child’s learning is at its peak and these kinds of programs reach them early and begin to shape and form some of their values and attitudes.”

Illustrating “Mazza from A to Z” has been a hands-on learning experience for Jenny Hanf: “Making this book taught me a lot about thinking outside the box, and it was a great lesson in collaboration,” she said. “Above everything it was an incredibly fun experience to go through with everyone at Mazza.”

Now available for purchase in the Mazza Museum Gift Shop, the book serves as a souvenir for visitors to the Museum that illustrates the experiences that they cherish. “Sometimes when you do your work you don’t think of the impact. You never know the impact you have on people. This book that you’re doing now could be 20 years from now an important book for the Mazza Museum,” the Condas told Hanf.

Jordan Garcia '16

This year’s Endowed Scholarship Celebration Luncheon took place on the same day as the Symposium for Scholarship and Creativity at the University, allowing donors the opportunity to attend student presentations about undergraduate and graduate research. Meeting Findlay students and seeing the extent of the opportunities available to them through their experiences is what inspires many donors to support students like Jordan Garcia who spoke at the luncheon.

A marketing major and baseball player, Garcia shared that he wouldn’t be at University of Findlay without the support of the scholarships he received. At the end of his freshman year, his father passed away unexpectedly, and he was faced with a tough decision to stay at home and help support his family or return to school. His family told him to follow his heart and not to let anything hold him back.

“Due to all the scholarships I received I was able to return my sophomore year. I didn’t think it was an option, but you guys made it possible,” he told donors at the luncheon.

“You never know how giving just a little can have a huge impact on someone’s life,” said Garcia.

FindlayMag | 23

On Campus

Breaking Ground for the New Center for Student Life and College of Business On March 31, the University of Findlay celebrated the groundbreaking for the Center for Student Life and College of Business, a building that will “enhance the quality of life on campus” in the words of the project’s fundraising chair, Pamela K.M. Beall ’78. Beall, executive vice president, corporate planning and strategy for MPLX, a publicly traded master limited partnership and an affiliate of Marathon Petroleum Corporation, added, “It will act as an investment in our vibrant community and the future of our regional workforce.”

Approved by the University Board of Trustees in March, the construction plans include three phases in the 300 block

24 | Summer 2016

of College Street. The 75,000-square-foot facility will be surrounded by expanded parking and functional, attractive and environmentally sustainable landscaping, which factors into the total project cost of $23 million. Completion is slated for late summer 2017, in time for the start of the fall semester.

University of Findlay President Katherine Fell, Ph.D., feels the community as well as the University will benefit from the new construction. “The Center for Student Life and College of Business will provide an opportunity for future collaboration with our community and area companies,” Fell emphasized. “The additional space and innovative learning areas open the door to shared initiatives that could move

On Campus

Findlay, Hancock County and the University forward.”

Funded with private donations and financing, the building is designed to foster innovative learning and collaboration, particularly for UF’s College of Business students, faculty and staff, which will relocate from Old Main. Labs, lecture halls, meeting rooms, auditoriums and offices are designed to inspire creativity and success. In addition to housing the University’s College of Business, the building will also serve as a gathering place for other academic programs and as a platform and venue for campus and community arts and entertainment. Lecture halls, labs, learning and research locations will serve as integral learning spaces that will best prepare students to work and live in today’s ever-increasing global economy.

At the ceremony at the end of March, the donors who made this dream a reality received praise before joining administrators, trustees and building contractors in donning hard hats, gripping shovels and turning dirt.

Expressing the excitement of the entire student body, Nick Thompson, president of UF’s Student Government Association, told donors that their generosity is the perfect example of why future UF graduates should fiscally and fondly remember their alma mater and how they, too, can make an impact. In the same way Sherri Garner Brumbaugh, a member of the project’s campaign cabinet, told students in the crowd, “We do it all for you.” She and her husband Jerry Brumbaugh are both donors to the project.

Board of Trustees Chair A.R. Charnes, also a donor along with his wife Mary Ann, assured College of Business students that because of the sound education they are receiving at UF, they will succeed. “This building is not just another facility, but a place that will inspire our Oilers, and that is critical to the development of the campus,” Charnes said. “This facility will play a large role in helping us to provide the type of campus atmosphere that we are striving for daily.”

Fell also thanked the donors for their generosity, and the faculty and staff for their commitment to current and future students. “In August of 2017 we will celebrate a new building. Lives will be transformed in small part and in large part because of each of you. The building will measure 75,000 square feet, but the inspiration it will provide will be immeasurable. Today you’re helping us make history,” Fell concluded.

Conceptual Rendering

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University of Findlay Unveils New Brand Identity

For the first time since 1989, the University of Findlay has introduced a new graphic identity and academic logo. The change was driven by changes in graphic design concepts over the years, but also to reflect the University’s commitment to its “brand promise” of academic excellence, experiential learning and transformative experiences for all students.

“The new brand is a reflection of our community of students, faculty, staff and alumni and their dedication to excellence and service,” explained Marketing and Communication Director Rebecca Jenkins, who spearheaded the brand identity effort. “In higher education, there’s usually a difference between an

26 | Summer 2016

academic logo and athletic logo,” she continued. “They reflect two different aspects of a college or university.”

UF will keep the “Oilers” name and logo, which features an oil derrick, for use in all athletic venues and sports logo wear.

The marketing team at UF spent more than a year conducting research, developing messaging and working on an updated graphic identity. They utilized input from all University stakeholders gathered through focus groups, workshops, and surveys. The guidance from thousands of responses “is why we feel like what we have here is something that’s authentic and uniquely Findlay,” Jenkins added.

On Campus

Every Picture Tells a Story Griffith Arch Keystone As the last piece of the arch to be put into place, the keystone locks all the other stones into position.

It symbolizes strength and the enduring value of a UF education. The Griffith Arch and the Arch Ceremony are intrinsic to the University of Findlay; therefore, the keystone is a natural choice for our logo mark.

Griffith Arch The subtle curvature of the line making up the base of the keystone represents the Arch itself.

Old Main Old Main is the most iconic building on campus, uniting current and former students through tradition and history. Used here, the image pays homage to the Findlay College logo, yet contains elements that are undeniably “UF today.� The six slats shown in the cupola represent the six colleges comprising the University.

The architectural element at the top of Old Main is in the shape of an arrow symbolizing a university that, while proud of its history, is forward-thinking and embraces the future.

Logo Progression

1970

1882

1989

1984

Current Logo

For more information on the University’s new brand, visit www.findlay.edu/brand.

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Philipp Brothers Doubles Team: Assuring Success for Education Majors

Both Ron and Duane Philipp, twin brothers and members of the Class of 1959 contribute to the success of University of Findlay College of Education students as they complete their field experience and become educators in the Findlay area and beyond.

Ron makes sure they take the correct Ohio Assessments so they can become licensed teachers. Duane picks it up from there, documenting that students have all the required coursework, passing assessment scores and a known graduation date before approving their licenses through the Ohio Department of Education.

Not much gets by this duo who, together, advise approximately 200 students each semester. The brothers are also in charge of placing students in field experience assignments, beginning in sophomore year.

“We need to place around 100 students each semester,” said Duane. “At UF we far exceed the state requirements for experiential learning in education.” He added that they try to keep field experience locations to within 50 miles of campus, with most in Findlay City and Hancock, Seneca and Wyandot County school districts. Currently, the University of Findlay is competing with eight or nine other universities in placing 28 | Summer 2016

education students in this area. (But other universities don’t have twin resources with decades of experience and lots of connections in local school systems!)

In 1955, the Philipp brothers, recent high school graduates, knew that the employment situation in their Pennsylvania hometown was dismal at best. Looking for a place to work and attend college, they remembered how much they had liked Findlay. They had visited the community during high school for a Churches of God youth conference.

Finding part-time jobs at Findlay’s Blanchard Valley Hospital and stocking shelves at LaSalle’s Department Store, they enrolled at the University of Findlay as education majors.

Both Duane and Ron graduated in 1959.

“I actually found a full-time teaching position during the spring semester of my senior year,” remembered Ron. He replaced a retiring teacher at McKinley Elementary School and 39 students were in his 5th grade class. Although somewhat intimidated at first, Ron admitted that he learned a lot about classroom management and ended his first year on a high note. “Back then, elementary teachers taught everything.

There were no specialists. I was expected to teach music, art, penmanship and everything in between,” he laughed.

On Campus

Going on to earn a master’s degree in educational administration, Ron served as principal at Findlay’s Washington, Lincoln and Jefferson elementary schools. He retired from the city school system in 1989 and began working at UF in 1990. His three children are also teachers and two graduated from UF. Duane elected to teach business education classes at Findlay High School and went on to earn a master’s in business education. He left the high school briefly to accept a position in Marathon Oil Company’s management training program.

“It was a great opportunity, but I missed teaching,” Duane admitted. He left Marathon after a year and returned to instructing students in typing, shorthand and other business essentials. Duane can claim College of Education Dean Julie McIntosh, Ed.D., Professor Skip Cindric, Ed.D., and Melissa Recker, instructor in the College of Education, as former students at Findlay High School.

After retiring from the city school system, Duane joined the UF staff in the fall of 1992. He also spent 27 years on the University’s Board of Trustees. He has two children, seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

The brothers are pleased to see an uptick in interest in teaching among potential University of Findlay students.

With more than 7,000 teachers retiring last year in Ohio, they feel there are many job openings for new teachers who are interested in staying in Ohio. In preparing students for the future, Duane thinks the biggest challenge that future teachers will face is the growing amount of paperwork, while Ron feels that keeping up with technology could be challenging.

“We need to place around 100 students each semester. At UF we far exceed the state requirements for experiential learning in education.”

– Duane Phillip ’59.

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Celebrating the Class of 2016 The Class of 2016 celebrated their graduation from the University of Findlay on April 30. About 1,090 graduates received doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s and associate degrees this year. Providing words of wisdom to these graduates were two successful University of Findlay alumni, V.J. Talwar ’92, president, gifts and special occasions for Sears Holdings Corporation and Billy Watterson ’96, president and founder of g2 revolution® and president and co-founder of Watterson Environmental Group, LLC. Talwar, who spoke at the graduate ceremony, earned a Bachelor of Arts in accounting from UF, a master’s in accounting from Miami University and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Talwar told graduates that great professional opportunities can arise quickly, which

Billy Watterson ’96

30 | Summer 2016

can require fast decision-making. His spur-of-the-moment decision had him leaving his home country of India within 48 hours and attending UF to pursue his dream of studying in America. “I’ve been lucky in the sense that I’ve taken those opportunities,” he said.

Watterson, who spoke at the undergraduate ceremony, is a graduate of UF’s (then) Environmental and Hazardous Materials Management Program. He suggested the Class of 2016 expect and embrace the “valleys of life,” and stated, “there is purpose in the pain.” Contentment and fulfillment come from “doing what we are designed to do,” he said. “The path to contentment and fulfillment, the great secret, the thirst quenching antidote, is in giving of yourselves and your resources,” he explained. “It’s not all supposed to be about us.”

V.J. Talwar ’92

On Campus

Research and Recognition Take Center Stage at Symposium attendance has a positive effect on later test scores, but it may depend on which preschool a student attends.

The University of Findlay on April 1 united for the day-long, campuswide Symposium for Scholarship and Creativity, which marked its tenth anniversary in 2016. Hundreds attended morning awards ceremonies that recognized outstanding students from each of the University’s six colleges. They heard a wide range of oral presentations in Davis Street Building classrooms and perused more than 70 posters that illustrated recent research.

Here are some highlights from the event: • Jacob Clagg and Parker Schroeder led a discussion regarding their investigation into youth’s postapocalyptic interests, and how they differ from actual, perpetual suffering experienced by the Hebrew people.

The discussion was titled “Are the Western world’s decentralized religious tenets part of the reason for today’s pop culture dystopian themes?” Unlike the Hebrews, many in the Western world do not live lives based on faith, Clagg pointed out. “A lot don’t hold onto religion in a communal sense. It’s a pluralistic society. Diversity doesn’t

necessarily help us cling together,” he said, hence, common tropes such as loner heroes and the abandonment of morality in entertainment options such as the movie “Mad Max: Fury Road” and “The Last of Us,” a video game.

• UF has vowed to focus more on sustainability practices, or the lack thereof, Pulse Editor Sarah Stubbs explained in her presentation on investigative reporting she completed on the topic. Ambivalence when it comes to practices such as recycling and using solar power are common at many college campuses, she pointed out, in part because it requires an initial investment for a delayed monetary return.

• At the request of the Findlay City School District, Rayan Alghuraibi, Reilly Butz, Todd Hamit and Aaron Pauly studied whether preschool helps students score higher on the fourth grade proficiency test. They gathered test scores, examined several preschools throughout the area and took into account factors such as learning disabled students. Examining information from a one-year time period, they determined preschool

• Despite strict food rationing in Britain during World War II, citizens actually got healthier, given that they were consuming less “bad” food, explained Brandy Smith, who visited London to examine how residents were affected by the war. Also, despite consistent bombing from 1939 to 1944, women were encouraged to “keep your beauty on duty”; some did so by using markers to draw stripes up the backs of their legs to give the illusion that they were wearing stockings (nylon was in short supply during the war) and using a mixture of boot polish and beet juice as lipstick. “The Germans’ goal was to defeat their morale and that’s what they didn’t do,” said Smith.

• Starting at 3:30 p.m. that day, Croy Gymnasium was the hub of campus activity. More than 70 posters highlighting additional research projects ranging from how family involvement affects quality of life for long-term care residents to reproductive system variety of the American bullfrog were being used as talking points. Free T-shirts were handed out, and the cake pops rapidly disappeared.

• UF Alumna Abbey Nickel ’15 reminisced about her time working at The Pulse, and spoke about her career as a features reporter for the Evansville Courier & Press in Indiana. “In each of us is a constantly unfolding story,” she explained. Mentioning an article she recently wrote about a 2-year-old girl who has brittle bone disease, she debunked the idea that news reporting is a dying practice. “Journalism is alive and well and I’m happy to be a part of it,” she said.

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Making Music to Affect People’s Lives: Micheal F. Anders, Ph.D. After 35 years as choir director at Findlay College and the University of Findlay, Professor Micheal F. Anders, Ph.D., directed his last concert this spring. In his time at Findlay, he has worn a number of hats (and hairstyles as seen on page 33), including, musical director, teacher, instructor, conductor, leader, fundraiser, voice coach and more, but he sees every one of his students as part of his family.

Over the years, Anders has experienced pride in a number of performances. While some productions have been enjoyed by Findlay audiences on more than one occasion like Joseph Haydn’s “The Creation” performed in 1993, 2004 and 2015; Handel’s Messiah in 1996, 2000 and 2007; and “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” in 1991 and 2014, there are others, Anders says, he could only do once.

In the spring of 2014, he conducted a performance of “The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace” by Karl Jenkins. “It’s an antiwar piece that focuses on the horrors of war and how it has affected man from the beginning of time to the present,” Anders said. Performed in the form of a Latin Mass with textual inserts and a film created for the piece, he explained that one of the most riveting moments is when the film shows a plane hitting a World Trade Center tower on Sept. 11, 2001.

“At that moment in the music, the choir is instructed to scream for 30 seconds, and while they are screaming the towers are coming down in the film,” said Anders. “It was the kind of concert that ended very softly. That piece left an impact on those students, and it left an impact on the audience. Someone

32 | Summer 2016

said, ‘Would you ever want to do this piece again?’ and I said ‘I can’t do this piece again. I emotionally cannot go through that again.’”

Over the years, Anders has been involved in a number of performances and concerts to help inspire change in his students and in the community. “Making music is not just about the music or doing a show. It’s making music to affect people’s lives, whether it’s my students or the community at large,” said Anders. He’s had the opportunity to collaborate with many area musicians and organizations to put together concerts and fundraisers. “I want my students to understand the importance of music in affecting the lives of others,” said Anders. “Look at the spring musical production of ‘Smile.’

There were a lot of social issues that floated around that show: the role of women, the idea of what you will do to win and issues of racism. We’ve done so many musicals over the years with undertones that needed to be discussed.” He sees this as part of his role in preparing students for meaningful lives in addition to productive careers. “I want them to be

On Campus

better human beings when they leave choir. I am not training professional musicians. We are training musicians to have music be a part of their lives.”

Like the performance of “The Armed Man,” there’s a musical memory that really stands out to Anders as well.

He explained that “REX,” a musical about the life, wives and children of Henry VIII was “a bust” when it played on Broadway. After receiving permission from the Rogers and Hammerstein Association, Sheldon Harnick who wrote the lyrics, and Sherman Yellen who wrote the original dialogue for the play, Anders took a sabbatical to reconstruct the musical for the centennial of Richard Rogers (known for “The Sound of Music,” “Cinderella” and other Broadway musicals). After careful planning and collaboration, Anders led the world revival premiere of “REX” at the University of Findlay. The production drew an audience from 16 different states and two other countries including Ted Chapin, president of the Rogers and Hammerstein Association, and Sheldon Harnick.

“After we did our production, they finally published the songs from ‘REX,’” said Anders. In fact, Harnick mentioned the University in the introduction he wrote for the collection published by Williamson Music in 2005.

“When the new ‘REX’ was unveiled in the spring of 2001, we were delighted to see that it was (finally!) the show we had originally envisioned,” Harnick wrote. “This was triumphantly corroborated in 2002, when Micheal Anders presented REX at the University of Findlay, this time with a large cast, regal sets, magnificent costumes and full orchestra. Oh, how I wish Dick Rodgers had been there to hear the response his music elicited from our enthusiastic audiences. Well, maybe he was there, smiling down at us from Songwriters’ Heaven, saying, ‘See! I told you it was a good show!’”

In addition to the recognition the University received and international attention as part of the centennial, the production inspired a collaborative effort across campus.

Students had the opportunity to take special classes in religious studies about the English Reformation, in women’s studies about the role of women in Tudor England, an art history class about the Tudors and a Shakespeare class looking at the same era.

“I hope to continue to work with the musical theatre program for a few more years,” said Anders. He also plans to continue his work with the Donnell Broadway Concert Series, an annual event that welcomes two internationally acclaimed Broadway stars to campus each year at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters.

The Many Faces and Hairstyles of Anders

1983

1984

1989

2006

2010

2016 FindlayMag FindlayMag| | 33

Class Notes 1960s George S. Steffey ’66 recently published his novel, “Courage to Surrender: A Journey to Meaning and Hope.” Describing the story of four couples who discover fellowship and love to build their own church in Pittsburgh, the novel targets young adults seeking meaning and purpose as well as mature Christians who are frustrated with the fragmentation of the church.

After receiving his bachelor’s degree in mathematics, Steffey completed his master’s degree in divinity from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and his doctor of ministry from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Nancy, reside in Leetsdale, Pennsylvania.

1980s

Lawrence P. Mains ’89 has a new position as client partner of mobile solutions for Verizon Wireless. He received his bachelor’s degree in business administration and currently resides in Arlington, Ohio.

1990s

John E. Moshier ’95 has a new position as the president of ReadyCap Lending, which provides secured financing nationwide to small business owners. He received his bachelor’s degree in political science and currently resides in Westfield, New Jersey.

2000s

Lynn R. Hernandez ’92 has a new position as the KBRU morning radio host in Oklahoma City. He can still be heard on KMOD in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He also married Cynde on Sept. 5, 2015.

He received his bachelor’s

Colleen (Galvin ’87) Scott is now a published author for Castle Gate Press. Her debut novel, “Misconceptions” features a feisty and persistent TV reporter who investigates a mysterious black-market in southern Ohio. Scott received her bachelor’s degree in marketing. She currently resides in Marysville, Ohio.

34 | Summer 2016

degree in communication. He and Cynde currently reside in Tulsa.

John ’02 and Sarah (McCullough ’04) Blackstone welcomed the birth of their daughter, Keleigh Rose, on Oct. 9, 2015. He received his bachelor’s degree in marketing, and she received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. The family currently resides in Lexington, Ohio.

Jacqueline J. Honeck ’02, M’03 is an advancement office associate in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences at The Ohio State University.

She received her bachelor’s degree in studio art and her master’s degree in education.

She currently resides in Columbus, Ohio.

Kimberly (Heck ’03) Stanley and her husband, Edward, are pleased to announce the birth of their daughter, Everly Dawn, on Oct. 30, 2015. Stanley received her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and Spanish. The family currently resides in Alliance, Ohio.

Derek ’04 and Beth (Beck ’03) Dailey welcomed the birth of their daughter, Violet Grace, on Dec. 15, 2015. Derek received his bachelor’s degree in business administration, and Beth received her bachelor’s degree in psychology and criminal justice administration. The family resides in Mount Blanchard, Ohio.

Class Notes

Ethan Arthur, on March 29, 2016. Paulus received her bachelor’s degree in communication. The family currently resides in Westerville, Ohio.

Jennifer Denton ’04 and her husband, George Smith, are pleased to announce the birth of their son, Dorian Lyric, on March 3, 2016.

Smith received her bachelor’s degree in equine business management. The family resides in Lowgap, North Carolina.

Michelle (Grim ’06) Pearce and her husband, Philip, welcomed the birth of their son, Gardner Roy, on Oct. 1, 2015. Pearce received her bachelor’s degree in biology and life sciences. The family resides in Candler, North Carolina.

Kimberli M. House ’04 has a new position as the wellness package coordinator for the Animal Care Center of Chicago. She received her bachelor’s degree in English.

She is celebrating 11 years of living in Chicago.

Johonna (Snyder ’04) Rowe and her husband, John, welcomed the birth of their second daughter, Morgan Elizabeth, on Feb. 12, 2015. Rowe received her bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and marketing. The family resides in McKinney, Texas.

Katie (Klosterman ’06) Paulus and her husband, Jeff, are pleased to announce the birth of their son,

Christophor S. Taber ’06 has a new position as the materials manager at Flat Chrysler Automobiles LLC Toledo Machining Plant.

He received his bachelor’s degree in operations and logistics. He currently resides in Findlay.

Rosemary (Haller ’06, M’07) Warther and her husband, Karl, are pleased to announce the birth of their daughter, Laura Addison, who was born on Sept. 25, 2015. Warther received her bachelor’s degree in health sciences and her master’s degree in occupational therapy. The family resides in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

Emily (Tillack ’07) Terzis and her husband, Michael, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Athena Quincy, on Dec. 14, 2015. Terzis received her bachelor’s degree in equine business management. The family resides in Victor, New York.

Wade Andrew, on Aug. 25, 2015. Olney received his bachelor’s degree in political science and international relations. The family will be moving to the United States Embassy in Abu Dhabi, UAE for his position at the U.S. Department of State.

Sarah E. Casanova ’08 is a research associate III for Regeneron Pharmaceuticals.

She received her bachelor’s degree in biology and continued her education at Albany Medical College with a master’s degree in cancer and cell biology. She currently resides in Briarcliff Manor, New York.

Brandon ’09 and Melissa (Wiles ’09) Forshey are excited to announce the birth of their daughter, Harper Annelyse, on Sept. 3, 2015.

Both received bachelor’s degrees in pre-veterinary medicine and biology. The family currently resides in Kenton, Ohio.

Danielle N. Matson ’08, M’09 is the new owner of Matson Family Chiropractic located in Oakwood, Ohio.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree in biology and premed and her master’s degree in business administration, she went on to receive her doctor of chiropractic at Life University. She currently resides in Continental, Ohio.

Luke A. Olney ’08 and his wife, Randee, welcomed the birth of their second son,

Eric M. Hertenstein ’09 and his wife, Leah, welcomed the birth of their son, William Thomas, on Jan. 15, 2016.

Hertenstein received his bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine and is a professor of nuclear medicine at the University of Findlay. They currently reside in Findlay.

Sarah (Albright ’09) Matzke and her husband, Mike, are pleased to announce the birth of their son, Christopher David, on July 27, 2015. Matzke received

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her bachelor’s degree in pre-veterinary medicine. The family currently resides in Suwanee, Georgia.

2010s

Brian M’10 and Heather (Fullenkamp ’07, M’08) Miller welcomed the birth of their son, Cameron Alan, on Oct. 11, 2015. Heather received her bachelor’s degree in technology management and both received their master’s degrees in business administration. The family currently resides in Whitehouse, Ohio.

Matt ’13 and Kelly (Seger ’12) Brooks became husband and wife on June 12, 2015.

He received his bachelor’s degree in computer science and mathematics, and she received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. They currently reside in Walbridge, Ohio.

Kassy (Wene ’13) Fry and her husband, Travis, welcomed the birth of their son, Kade Matthew, born on Nov. 3, 2015. Fry received her bachelor’s degree in animal science. She and her family reside in Corunna, Indiana.

Austin M. Jones ’14 completed his master’s degree in game design from Full Sail University in Orlando, Florida on Sept. 4, 2015.

He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Findlay in computer science.

Austin currently resides in Findlay.

Molly (Homan ’14) Wagner and her husband, Mike, are pleased to announce the birth of their son, John Edward, on Nov. 24, 2015. Wagner received her bachelor’s degree in accounting. They currently reside in Yorkshire, Ohio.

Lauren (Besand D.P.T. ’15) Schott and her husband, Kellen, celebrated the birth of their daughter, Haley Elizabeth, on Dec. 29, 2015. She received her doctorate in physical therapy. They currently reside in Celina, Ohio.

Elliott ’12 and Lindsay (McFadden ’11) Shaffer welcomed the birth of their daughter, Wren Rhea, on Dec. 3, 2015. He received his bachelor’s degree in digital media, and she received her bachelor’s degree in journalism. The family resides in Fostoria, Ohio.

Alyson M. Ghizzoni-Burns, Pharm.D. ’12 is now the pharmacy supervisor for Greenville Health System.

She currently resides in Easley, South Carolina.

36 | Summer 2016

Jessica (Swihart ’13) Vandenbroek was married to Nathan, on Sept 19, 2015. She received her bachelor’s degree in animal science with a minor in business management. They currently reside in Findlay.

Sean N. Boley M’16 and his wife, Whitney, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Madilyn Kay, on March 2, 2016. Boley received his master’s degree in business administration. They currently reside in Lima, Ohio.

Kirstie Ernst ’13 was named an Extraordinary Employee in the Fall of 2015 by Summit Academy Management for her dedication and passion of overachieving the goals at Columbus Elementary School.

Friends

Erin Thompson, Pharm.D., assistant professor of pharmacy practice at the University of Findlay, and her husband, Eric, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Mallory Lynn, on Nov. 8, 2015. They currently reside in Rudolph, Ohio.

Class Notes for this issue were received by April 1, 2016.

Class Notes

In Memory 1950s Harold R. Rockey ’50 Oct. 2, 2015 Frank Erme ’52 Feb. 13, 2016 Daniel A. Rose ’53 Oct. 2015 Doris I. Zehner ’53 Nov. 2, 2015 Doran James Snyder ’54 Nov. 4, 2015 Thomas Lee Redman ’55 Jan. 12, 2016 William Koval ’56 Feb. 24, 2015 Paul A. Moore ’57 Jan. 2, 2016 William Shambaugh ’57 Feb. 14, 2016 John R. Blide ’59 Feb. 2, 2016

1960s Richard Lounder ’61 Dec. 2, 2015

2000s Gene Charles Crutsinger M’03 Sept. 27, 2015

The following passages were shared with the University of Findlay for publication.

Jack H. Bennett ’48 died on Jan. 3, 2015. After attending Findlay College, he received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from The Ohio State University in 1953. Prior to completing his education, he served in the Naval Air Corps during World War II from 1942 to 1946. His veterinary practice was located on Main Street in Findlay. He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Helen; three children, Bruce, Barbara and Mark; sister, Martha, nine grandchildren, and five greatgrandchildren.

chief executive officer of Superior Trim, headquartered in Findlay. The Gardner family supported numerous projects within the area, including the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, Blanchard Valley Health System and the Cancer Care Center.

He and his wife, Robin, also supported the expansion of the Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion. The expansion facilitated the growth of the Mazza Museum including the addition of the art vault, resource rooms, gift shop and children’s art studio. He is survived by his wife, Robin; two sons, Michael and Phillip, and brother, Phillip.

Jean Marie Dodge ’63 Dec. 5, 2015 William Lyons ’63 Nov. 14, 2015 Jerome Savoy ’66 Dec. 28, 2015 Nancy (Clark) Lizotte ’69 Jan. 8, 2016

1980s Brian B. Stevens ’85 July 28, 2015

1990s Jeffery M. Loxterman ’93 Dec. 30, 2012 Allen Tompkins ’98 Dec. 30, 2015

Michael J. Gardner died on Dec. 10, 2015. A successful businessman and philanthropist, he greatly impacted all areas of the City of Findlay. He was a member of the University of Findlay Board of Trustees and was

Mike Oxley died on Jan. 1, 2016, at his home in McLean, Virginia after a long struggle with cancer. He served 26 years in Congress and wrote legislation to crack down on financial fraud. Growing up in Findlay, he returned to the area after working in Boston and New York City as an FBI agent and was elected to the Ohio House in 1972.

After his years in Congress,

he became a lobbyist in the financial sector and was a senior adviser to the board of Nasdaq. He was a member of the University of Findlay Board of Trustees for many years. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; son, Chadd, and his grandson.

Marcelene (Owens ’59) Wallen died on Sept. 28, 2015. Marcie graduated with honors from Findlay College where she met her husband, the late Raeburn Wallen ’56, and both were active members of the Mummers Club, a live theatre group on campus, and Theta Epsilon Delta. In 2009, the University of Findlay named the couple Distinguished Alumni. She completed graduate school at Bowling Green State University and was an educator for 30 years in public schools. She is survived by her sister, Janet; daughter, Tammy; two sons, Ron and Michael, and many grandchildren.

Share your News! www.findlay.edu/ShareYourNews FindlayMag | 37

Alumni Events At the University of Findlay’s 2016 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees included former wrestling standout Quantres Bates ’00, award-winning golfer David Grove ’95, football star Alan Baumlein ’87, stellar basketball player Kyle Hunt ’02, swimming sensation Brad Algiere ’00, and decorated indoor and outdoor runner Andrea (Morgan) Zechella ’03. David Wallach, a former UF math teacher who also assisted a great deal with Oiler athletics, posthumously received the Lifetime Achievement Award which was accepted by John Wallach on his behalf. Pictured from left to right: Grove, Wallach, Hunt, Zechella, Baumlein, Algiere, and Bates.

Terry Wymer ’82, pictured here with President Fell, spoke at an event in Toledo this spring about his experiences as a Division I referee for the NCAA. Larry Manley ’61, Karen Manley and University Trustee Don Manley who hosted the event enjoyed laughs and learning at Winter College 2016 in Naples, Florida, last February. Photo by Anna Nguyen.

Reconnect With UF The 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 a full list of events online at www.findlay.edu/events.

38 | Summer 2016

End Notes Dear Alumni, This spring brought new starts and new beginnings to more than just the flowers and trees at the University of Findlay. We have a new University of Findlay academic logo, and we broke ground on the new Center for Student Life and College of Business. And of course spring means graduation, therefore I want to congratulate all of our 2016 graduates and welcome them as University of Findlay alumni. You are now part of a very distinguished group. As you embark on meaningful lives and productive careers, I hope you will choose to financially contribute to the University of Findlay.

To all alumni, it is the percentage of alumni who contribute to the University that has the greatest impact on grants and funding the University receives. The total percentage of alumni contributions also affects the University’s ranking in college rating systems. This is why even a small monetary gift has a large overall impact by adding to that percentage. Along with the Alumni Board of Governors, I am confident that our Oiler pride and spirit will allow us to increase contributions this year. We sincerely thank recent significant donors George and Shirlee Whitson, Shiv Gupta, D.B.A. and the late Congressman Michael Oxley. All donors’ gifts, whether large or small, contribute greatly to the continued success of the University of Findlay and its graduates. Therefore, I challenge all of you to give the amount you are financially comfortable with. My hope is that you then will annually continue to make a contribution.

I also want to make you aware of numerous upcoming events on our online calendar at www.findlay.edu/events. View the full list and make reservations to attend one or more. I promise you a very enjoyable experience including captivating speakers, wonderful entertainment, outstanding hospitality and fellowship with people like you who carry the love of orange and black deep in their hearts. If you have an idea for an alumni event or wish to host an event in your area, please contact Dee Dee Spraw at spraw@findlay.edu.

Looking ahead, Homecoming & Family Weekend is scheduled for Oct. 14 and 15, 2016. The homecoming theme this year is “There’s No Place Like Homecoming.”

To me, the University of Findlay is “HOME,” therefore I look forward to welcoming you all back to campus for homecoming in 2016. Registration will be available at www.findlay.edu/alumni in the fall.

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) Mike Clouse ’96, M’06 Mark Cosiano ’07 Liz Ditto ’81 Susan Hite ’87 Jennia (Jenkins) Knestrick ’94 Mike Murphy ’72 Phil Riegle ’00 Kayla Shannon ’10 Ryan Smith ’00, M’07 Teresa (McIntosh) Steed ’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

Kelly (Zink) Ernst ’03, President Alumni Association Board of Governors

Business Affairs: Tom Jakubiec ’73 Enrollment Management: Susan Hite ’87

Save The Date Winter College 2017

Student Affairs: Kelly (Zink) Ernst ’03

March 1, 2017 Pelican Yacht Club | Naples, Florida

University Advancement: Kim (Heaster) Rozelle ’88

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1000 N Main St Findlay, OH 45840-3653 www.findlay.edu

Oct. 14 -15, 2016