Challenge Magazine (Spring/Summer 2015)

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PRESIDENT PAUL MARION WELCOMES TU’S NEWEST PRESIDENT, DR. CURTIS B. CHARLES

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table of contents

Dear Alumni & Friends of Tiffin University: Welcome to Challenge Magazine!

In this issue, Tiffin University bids farewell to President Paul Marion and First Lady Susan Marion and introduces Dr. Curtis B. Charles as 5th President and his wife and First Lady Dr. Kelly Jackson Charles.

Your news inspires all of us – faculty, staff, students, alumni and Lisa Williams friends – so please continue the momentum by sending us your news.

An electronic form is available at www.tiffin.edu/omrp/tellus/ (with an opportunity to upload a photo), or, you can simply email lwilliam@tiffin.edu or our Director of Alumni Relations Vickie Galaska at galaskavm@tiffin.edu .

I hope you enjoy the photos and stories of Tiffin University in the pages ahead.

SPRING / SUMMER 2015 Tiffin University is a place where we challenge our students to become all they are capable of becoming Hence, the name of the magazine.

Sincerely, Lisa Williams, Editor Executive Director of Media Relations & Publications

4 Dr. Curtis B. Charles Named TU’s Fifth President How to send news to Challenge Magazine:

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Website: http://www.tiffin.edu/omrp/tellus/

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Mail: Print out the Tell Us About Yourself form and mail to: Lisa Williams, 155 Miami Street, Tiffin, Ohio 44883

In Appreciation Paul & Susan Marion Bid Farewell

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Email: lwilliam@tiffin.edu (if you have a photo, please attach).

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Credits: Lisa Williams, Editor & Photographer Mary Ann Stearns, Creative Director / Graphic Designer Jessica Huffman, Media Relations Specialist Vickie Galaska, Director of Alumni Relations Elaine Warnecke, ClassScene Shane O’Donnell, SportScene

AlumniScene

56 Alumni Profiles

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If this issue of Challenge Magazine is addressed to someone in your household who has moved, please notify the Office of Alumni Relations at 419.448.3595 or email GalaskaVM@tiffin.edu

In Memoriam

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OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

dr. curtis b. charles named tu’s fifth president “Dr. Charles is a strong leader and a visionary who is passionate about organizational effectiveness and student success.

He demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit of Tiffin University,” said TU Board Chair Claire Johansen.

“I am looking forward to enhancing Tiffin University’s reputation of innovation by inspiring our team of faculty and staff to create transformational academic experiences and provide superior services and support to educate the future,” said Dr. Charles. “The presidency is an opportunity to challenge students.”

Before coming to Tiffin, Dr. Charles was the Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Institutional Transformation at Fayetteville State University (FSU) in North Carolina. FSU is a constituent institution of The University of North Carolina system.

At Fayetteville State, Dr. Charles was the founding Executive Director of the Center for Defense and Homeland Security (CDHS), a research-enabled center that prepares individuals to address issues of compelling interest to the security of the United States including: Cyber Security Threats, National Security Challenges and Emergency Management. The CDHS enables faculty to team with industry partners to compete for federal contracts and provides collaborative relationships with other institutions and research laboratories. In 2014, the CDHS won $2.6M in national grants and contracts.

Prior to that, Dr. Charles served as Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at FSU. In that role, his accomplishments included academic strategic planning and program development; developing a campus-wide data analytics assessment system that tied unit outcomes to budgeting to improve student retention, progression and graduation rates; as well as directing military education.

Dr. Charles earned his Master of Science in Architecture Studies degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Morgan State University in Baltimore. He received his bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Howard University in Washington, D.C. He also is a graduate of Harvard’s Institute of Education Management, Hampton University Leadership Institute, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities’ Millennium Leadership Initiative and the Executive Leadership Academy.

Dr. Charles served as the Graduate and Undergraduate Department Head at Morgan State University prior to his tenure at FSU. He also was a faculty member at the University of Miami, Barry University, Howard University and Morgan State University.

In addition to his work in higher education, Dr. Charles has served in various corporate positions including IBM’s Strategy and Change Division, where he and his team led strategy engagements in Korea, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Japan and the United States. As an entrepreneur, he was the owner of a design-consulting firm that partnered with AT&T, Bell South and others. As a scholar, he is the co-author of two books, Computers in the Professional Practice of Design and Multimedia Marketing for Design Firms.

Tiffin University is excited to welcome Dr. Curtis Charles, his wife, Dr. Kelly Jackson Charles, and their four children to the Tiffin community.

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Commencement

COMMENCEMENT 2015 James Kennedy, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ohio Mutual Insurance Group, delivered the keynote address during Tiffin University’s 2015 Commencement Ceremony on May 2 in TU’s Heminger Center. Kennedy focused on leadership and the eleven most important lessons he has learned throughout his career. He encouraged graduates to be the leaders that the world needs, noting that leadership does not require a certain type of personality or a title—it just requires someone with passion.

“i challenge every one of you graduates today to recognize leadership.”

James Kennedy

“a leader is anyone who influences change.”

Kennedy’s Ten Lessons 1. Make sure the culture and purpose of a company align with who you are as a person.

2. Stay true to who you are and find something to ground you.

3. Life just isn’t fair and nothing is guaranteed.

4. You’re going to make mistakes.

5. When you embark on something in your life keep enough objectivity to determine whether it is working and have the courage to move on if it isn’t.

6. What matters most is what you feel about you and always be humble.

7. Define what success means to you.

8. Understand the influence of the spoken word.

9. You are the CEO of your own life; life is too short to not be in control.

10. Make the one-third of your life spent working as happy as you can because it influences the other two-thirds.

11. Find someone you trust with whom you can go through life.

Kennedy also noted the importance of having a partner you trust to celebrate the good and console you in the bad. He acknowledged his wife Mary.

“I married my best friend 33 years ago. She has gotten me through the hard times and been my rock,” he said. “My wish is that all of you would be so fortunate.”

He congratulated the graduates and wished them luck in their future. Kennedy will retire at the end of 2015. He intends to spend more time with his wife playing golf and traveling. He would also like to consult and speak at educational programs or conferences.

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Commencement

commencement 2015 quick facts 546 Graduates received their bachelor’s degrees n 490 Graduates received their master’s degrees n 126 Graduates received their master’s degrees with distinction (4.0 G.P.A.) n 124 Graduates received their bachelor’s degrees with honors (3.5 G.P.A.) n 104 Graduates received their associate’s degrees n 50 Graduates were Veterans n 42 Different U.S. States were represented n 24 Graduates received their associate’s degrees with honors (3.5 G.P.A.), and n 18 countries were represented at TU’s 127 Commencement on May 2. n

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Commencement

senior reception

President Paul and Susan Marion hosted the annual Senior Reception prior to commencement in the Hayes Center for the Arts.

The reception was in conjunction with the Student Art Exhibition.

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golden grads

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of their graduation from TU, the Class of 1965 was invited to be the University’s guests at the commencement luncheon and join the graduation procession with the Class of 2015.

Left to right: Leroy Bockbrader, Steve Hartsel, Paul Houck, Vickie Galaska (Director of Alumni Relations), Ronald Klausing, David Burkett, and TU Trustee Dave Mitchell.

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Commencement

something in common Angela and Logan Dudley share a unique Logan immersed herself into the exmother/daughter bond. Both have a pastracurricular TU experience as a member sion for careers in the field of criminal of the Sigma Delta Sigma sorority and justice and each has a genuine love for Tifa cheerleader for the football team. For fin University. This year, both mother and her, cheering at the Homecoming games daughter donned the customary cap and remains one of her most cherished camgown to receive their respective degrees. pus memories. That goes double for her Angela — who earned her Master of mother, who routinely attended games Science degree in Criminal Justice from TU and cheered on her daughter from the in 2005 — received her Ph.D. in Business stands.

Administration with a specialization in Both women intend to make the most Criminal Justice from Northcentral Uniof their respective degrees. Logan will versity in January. In May, Logan earned a return to Tiffin University in the fall to beBachelor of Criminal Justice Degree: Law gin work on her Master of Science Degree Enforcement from TU. in Criminal Justice — Justice Administra Angela has worked for the Ohio Investion. She hopes to eventually start her tigative Unit (formerly Liquor Control) for own private security company.

18 years. Currently, she is the Assistant No matter where her career takes Agent in Charge of the Cleveland District. her, Logan knows that being a TU alum The unit — that began when prohibition means she’ll always have a proverbial ended in 1933 — is comprised of underhome away from home. cover/plain clothes police officers who “I’ve connected with many friends I investigate criminal activity that includes know I will keep in touch with for years to food stamp fraud trafficking, illegal sales come and many professors who can help of alcohol and tobacco, as well as illegal me with my future career goals,” she says. gambling and prostitution. It also handles As Angela begins the next chapter of investigations that pertain to establishher life, she is aware of the importance of Logan and Angela Dudley ments that hold a liquor permit. her higher-education experience.

When she decided to pursue a master’s “My degrees have helped to further my degree, Angela says TU was the obvious choice. career. They’ve opened up doors for me in academia that oth “Tiffin University has always been ranked as one of the best erwise would not have existed,” she says. “As a result, I have colleges in the U.S. News,” she says. “I knew when I gradubeen an adjunct faculty member at the University of Phoenix ated, my degree would not only be valuable, it would also be since 2011, and in June 2015, I will become an adjunct faculty recognized by others in the criminal justice field.” member for the American InterContinental University.”

The fact that her mother had a positive educational experi She does, however, have an additional long-term goal. ence at TU prompted Logan to enter the criminal justice “Hopefully, one day I will be able to teach at Tiffin Univerprogram at TU four years ago. The location of the University sity,” Angela says. was an added bonus for the Cleveland native.

“It was two hours away from home which was far enough away, yet close enough if I needed my family,” she explains.

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Paul and Susan Marion

in appreciation

paul & susan marion bid farewell Thirteen years ago, Dr. Paul and Susan Marion came to Tiffin and began a successful tenure as Tiffin University’s President and First Lady. On April 24, in celebration of President Marion’s retirement, the couple bid a poignant farewell to the TU family during a reception held in their honor at the Heminger Center.

President Marion said that the primary motivators in his career have been to make a positive contribution to society, to be a part of an organization that is growing and developing, and to work with good people. He said that being associated with Tiffin University has allowed him to accomplish these goals.

After a heartfelt thank you to the faculty, staff and Board of Trustees, President Marion turned his attention to the students.

“Probably the thing Susan and I liked most was getting to know the students,” he said. “We’ve had a great group of students the entire time we’ve been here and I’m sure that will continue.”

He also expressed his sincere appreciation to the alumni, donors and Tiffin community before introducing Susan as “a great wife, my best friend” and someone who has contributed much to the Tiffin community.

“The best decision I ever made was to marry Paul Marion,” Susan began. “It’s been such a great journey, and, coming to Tiffin was especially exciting. It’s been such a privilege and a pleasure to be a part of the Tiffin University family…and we are a family. I have always felt that way.”

She emphasized that the Tiffin community also has been a tremendous blessing in their lives by offering them friendship and support.

During their years in Tiffin, while Paul was leading the University, Susan was busy serving as a Success Coach for students who needed academic assistance, directing music ensembles, and hosting many events on campus and at the Schriner House. She also introduced many local children to the world of music by offering piano lessons in their home.

Some of those students were in attendance at the retirement reception.

“I want you to know what a joy it was to have you there every afternoon and to watch you grow up,” she told them. “I want to thank you for all you have given me.”

The couple will be starting a new chapter of their lives when they retire to Arizona this summer. But Susan assured the group of well-wishers that technology will enable them to stay close to the place they’ve called home.

“Thank you so much — more than I can ever say — for a great 13 years. We wish you all the best and we’ll keep an eye on things from Arizona. We can watch many TU events and programs on the computer now,” she said, prompting laughter from the audience. “We’ve learned how to do that while we’ve been here.”

In conclusion, TU Trustee Dr. Frank Murphy presented Susan Marion with a plaque that states: “The Susan Marion Student Success Center • In Honor of Tiffin University’s First Lady 2002-2015 • She inspired excellence in students and motivated them to achieve their highest potential.” The plaque will hang in the lower level of the Murphy Academic Support Center.

The University also paid homage to the couple’s tireless commitment to the arts when Trustee Mike Klepper presented both Paul and Susan with a plaque titled “The Marion Center,” which will hang inside TU’s newest multipurpose facility at the corner of Wall and Miami Streets. Trustee William Reineke, Sr., then presented Paul Marion with an oil painting — his presidential portrait — that will hang on the wall of the Heritage Room inside the Cole Dining Hall alongside all former presidents of Tiffin University.

In addition to the accolades from the university, President Marion was presented with the Seneca Industrial Economic Development Corporation’s President’s Award during its annual meeting on April 28.

President Marion was recognized by SIEDC for his efforts to facilitate economic, community and downtown development projects, as well as for his work on initiatives to improve the business climate and quality of life in Seneca County.

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Paul and Susan Marion

retirement celebration – april 24, 2015 SPRING / SUMMER 2015

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Paul and Susan Marion

mayoral proclamation On April 24, Tiffin Mayor Aaron Montz issued a Mayoral Proclamation in honor of Paul and Susan Marion’s 13 years of dedicated service to Tiffin University, the City of Tiffin and Seneca County.

The mayor recognized the positive changes that have occurred under President Marion’s tenure at TU. During his time at the helm: a. Enrollment has increased Mayor Aaron D. Montz from 1,500 to more than 4,200 students; b. The value of the University’s net assets has increased by 470 percent; c. New facilities have been constructed, including the Heminger Center, the Murphy Academic Support Center, the Hertzer Technology Center, the Hayes Center for the Arts, four student apartment buildings, and a new residence hall and many other campus improvements have been achieved; d. Academic programs have been created, including three new degree programs and more than 100 new undergraduate and graduate majors, concentrations and minors; e. Many new student services have been implemented; f. The athletic program became a part of Division II of the NCAA and joined the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and several new teams were started;

enrollment

g. The University’s academic quality and reputation have been enhanced in many ways and a number of academic programs have been ranked among the nation’s best.

Paul and Susan Marion were also honored for their individual contributions to the City of Tiffin. Paul was recognized for his work as a member and board chair of the Tiffin Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau and the Seneca Industrial and Economic Development Corporation and member of the Tiffin Rotary Club.

In his proclamation, Mayor Montz expressed gratitude for Susan’s service on the boards of the Ritz Theatre and the United Way, as well as for her participation on two committees involved in the enhancement of downtown Tiffin. He also recognized her for helping to coordinate a special math education program for students in the local elementary schools, and for supervising the student-teaching experience for Heidelberg University music education majors.

The proclamation also spotlighted Susan’s contributions to Tiffin University, including her service as a Student Success Coach and for helping coordinate the Success Coach Program, directing student music ensembles, conducting etiquette programs for students and handling her duties as TU’s First Lady.

value of net assets

Tiffin University established

4,282 4,282

1,500 1,500

2003 2003

$45.5 $45.5 MillionMillion an endowed scholarship in

$7.2 Million $7.2 Million

2014 2014

endowed scholarship

2003 2003

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honor of Paul and Susan Marion’s service to Tiffin University. The gift of an endowed scholarship provides Tiffin University with a permanent asset from which students can receive support. Awards are made annually to deserving students according to the donor wishes and current financial aid policies of the University.

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tiffin campus additions and improvements during dr. marion’s presidency

Hertzer Technology Center Constructed

Hayes Center for the Arts Constructed

Heminger Center Constructed

Murphy Academic Support Center Constructed

Living Learning Community Constructed

Residence Hall on Clay Street Constructed

Outdoor Track Constructed

Wrestling Team Practice Facility Created

Golf Clubhouse Created

Facilities Department Building Created

Miami Streetscape Constructed

Baseball, Softball and Soccer Fields Improved

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Gillmor Gym Improved

Italian-American Neighborhood Memorial Constructed

Cole Dining Hall Expanded & Improved

Hanson Fitness Center Expanded & Improved

Tennis Courts Improved

Graduate & Distance Education Center Created

Nature Preserve Constructed

International Student Center Created

Courtyard Created behind Main Classroom Bldg.

Inside of CafĂŠ currently being Constructed

CafĂŠ-Bookstore-Marion Center being Constructed

Science Laboratory Facility Expanded & Improved

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king day celebrated

Dr. Robert Simmons delivered the keynote address, “Quit telling me we are post-racial: Revisiting the Dream,” on Martin Luther King Day 2015 on TU’s campus. Recently featured on CNN and currently serving as the Chief of Innovation and Research for the District of Columbia Public Schools, Dr. Simmons was the founding director of the Center for Innovation in Urban Education, and a tenured professor Dr. Robert Simmons of urban

education, and associated faculty member in the African and African American Studies program at Loyola University Maryland.

online programs ranked among best in the country

U.S. News and World Report ranked TU’s online graduate Criminal Justice program as #6 in the U.S. According to U.S. News and World Report, “These are the best online master’s in criminal justice programs, based on factors such as admissions selectivity, faculty credentials and academic and career support services offered to students.”

According to Online Master’s Programs (OMP) – the education world’s

most thorough survey of online master’s programs, TU’s Master of Business Administration/Finance was ranked #9 and Marketing was ranked #12 in the nation. TU’s Master of Science/Psychology was ranked #8 and Criminal Justice was chosen as #13 in the country. The rankings were based on criteria such as dedication to online or hybrid education, graduate level studies, and providing of academic and career services.

TU’s online MBA (Leadership) ranked 17th best in the country, and the online MBA (Human Resources Management) ranked 24th best in the country according to onlinembareport. com. The online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting ranked 28th best in the country according to nonprofitcollegesonline.com.

gone wild

Tiffin University’s 2015 “Gone Wild” SpringFest Carnival offered students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of games, inflatables, music, food, and an exotic animal petting zoo.

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betty jane memorial fund grant

science lab facility improved

The Board of Trustees of the Tiffin Charitable Foundation awarded Tiffin University a grant from The Betty Jane Memorial Fund in the amount of $9,700 to technologically support students with disabilities. TU utilized the grant money to purchase computing tablets for use by students with sensory impairments (vision or hearing) or those who have learning disabilities. Additionally, the grant provides the funding for the Read and Write Gold text-to-speech program annual license renewal fee. This program allows students to ‘hear’ their textbooks, articles, and handouts using text-to-speech functions, as well as develop personal dictionaries for unknown terms, create pre-writing and outlining for papers, and highlight areas of text for future study and review.

TU’s student enrollment in science programs has grown in recent years, so the science laboratory facility has been expanded and enhanced on campus. The United States Department of Labor identified that 15 of the 20 fastest growing job positions require strong science and math preparation.

The School of Arts & Sciences and the School of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences have programs that educate students in scientific processes, including Forensic Science, Exercise Science, Criminalistics, and General Science. The new facility can accommodate more than double the number of students and will be divided into separate chemistry and biological labs.

Both labs were built to National Lab Standards and conform to ADA standards to support students who may have physical disabilities. The labs contain instrumentation to allow students to study scientific processes in higher-level scientific curriculum that allows students to engage in lab processes in general chemistry, organic chemistry, quantitative and instrumental analysis, biology, toxicology and forensic science classes. The lab is equipped with state of art fume hoods, scientific equipment and instrumentation, computers, and other scientific tools that are used to teach students processes they will use in STEM job positions.

campus family giving

After completing the 2014-15 fiscal year, giving to the Annual Fund by TU employees reached an all-time high according to Joe Borich, Annual Fund Director. “I believe that we have one of the nation’s best Campus Family giving rates,” said Borich.

“Employee giving has grown from 42% in 2012 to 96% in 2015.

private wine label

Ralph’s Joy of Living contributed to TU’s Annual Fund as part of a collaborative partnership. The Annual Fund. The Fund maintains the academic, campus, and student services that are not covered by tuition.

Tiffin University’s Founder’s Red wine and Heritage White wine, which are both among Ralph’s top 5 best sellers, are available exclusively at Ralph’s Joy of Living. Fifty percent of the profit on each bottle sold goes back to TU.

Completion is scheduled this summer.

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new majors & programs

During the past year, the University began offering the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Information Technology, and Healthcare Administration; Bachelor of Arts in Cyber Defense & Information Assurance and Chemistry; Bachelor of Business Administration online in Entrepreneurship, Accounting, and Marketing; Bachelor of Criminal Justice in Digital Forensics; Master of Science in Psychology; Master of Business Administration in Non-Profit Management; and a Minor and Certificate in Arabic Studies.

The university will begin offering the Bachelor of Business Administration in Digital Innovation and Design and the Bachelor of Criminal Justice in Criminalistics in the 2015 fall semester.

in the classroom

TU Alum Gary Heminger, President and CEO of Marathon Petroleum Corporation, spoke to students in the Organization Theory course in March.

Mr. Heminger discussed how theory relates to business practice within Marathon Corporation.

Students were prepared with questions and asked Gary Heminger Heminger about the role of performance-based pay, skills required to succeed in business, growing use of virtual networks, teams in the business world, and his time spent living in London. In conclusion, students were required to complete a virtual team project.

supply chain management

Supply Chain Management students toured National Machinery, Toledo Molding and Die, and Ballreich’s. They also learned about the supply chain management needs of the healthcare industry from Lynn Detterman, President and CEO of Mercy Tiffin and Mercy Willard Hospital, and Charles Ervin, Senior Director of Facility Support and Campus Planning for the two locations.

Detterman and Ervin discussed health care reform’s new business/payment model, health care supply chain’s next generation cost management, the health care supply chain process, and a case study from the arrival of Ebola in the U.S.

small business management

Students in Assistant Professor of Management & Information Systems, Lisa Kahle-Piasecki’s Small Business Management class traveled to Madison Street Tavern for lunch in March to meet with owner and Tiffin Alum Chris Chase, MBA 2005. Chris discussed what it is like to own and operate a small business.

Michael Holly spoke to the Small Business Management Class in April on what it is like to buy and operate a small business in another country.

Michael and his wife, Alison, own a beachfront restaurant, Latitude Blue, located in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

student news national geographic’s genographic project

TU students participated in National Geographic’s Genographic Project and all first-year students observed the results. According to National Geographic, “Since its launch in 2005, National Geographic’s Genographic Project has used advanced DNA analysis and worked with indigenous communities to help answer fundamental questions about where humans originated and how we came to populate the Earth.

Now, cutting-edge technology is enabling us to shine a powerful new light on our collective past.”

The individual participant’s results include one’s hominin ancestry, deep ancestry and regional ancestry. Hominin ancestry traces Neanderthal relations. Deep ancestry is one’s maternal and paternal relations as far back as 100,000 years, and regional ancestry traces the geographic journeys of one’s maternal and paternal lineage.

The university’s involvement in the project began with President and Mrs. Paul Marion’s participation. Dr. Marion reiterated the project’s key conclusion. “It reminds us that we’re all related,” he said.

DNA Mapping Participants & Group Leaders

students market for area businesses Michael Holly accepts gift from TU student Nikki Kieffer

TU students have been using knowledge gained throughout the semester to offer marketing suggestions to area organizations and companies. Students (Continued on page 25)

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small town charm Home to two universities, Tiffin welcomes thousands of young students every semester. TU graduate Emily Stant came to Tiffin to extend her education, but the small town charm kept her around to start a career.

Stant, a Delphos, Ohio native, graduated from TU in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in Arts Administration. After four years on campus, she Emily Stant began to call Tiffin her home.

“Over the four years I was there, I fell in love with it,” said Stant. She also noted the “hidden treasures” of the town, such as museums and unique small businesses.

Today, her job in Tiffin requires her to work closely with those businesses. Stant is the social media specialist for TiffinOhio.org, an online resource that connects Seneca County citizens with events and businesses in the area. In addition to updating the organization’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages, she also works closely with local business owners to provide them with online marketing packages.

“I love when business owners say that a customer saw a [social

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media] post and came in,” she said.

Many companies have hired social media staff to take advantage of new marketing and communication channels.

Stant’s position is the first of its kind at TiffinOhio.org.

She came to TU with plans to study English but changed her mind after she met Professor Brad Rees. Within the music department and the concert production team, she helped organize live music opportunities for students.

“I was a part of bringing concerts to campus,” she said. “I liked meeting different artists and smaller, unknown artists.”

She was also an active member of the gay, lesbian, and straight supporter group (GLASS) and the H2O campus ministry where she honed her social media skills.

Although she fulfilled a major in Arts Administration and a minor in Public Relations, she feels that her TU education guided her towards interests beyond those parameters. Her original goal was to work for a music venue or festival after graduation, but experiences at TU took her elsewhere. Thanks to some motivation from Dr. Colleen Vallo, she took an unexpected interest in another subject outside of her major.

“Professor Vallo really inspired me to get into journalism,” Stant said.

She recommended that all TU students take some journalism courses, as they force students to branch outside of their comfort zones and develop communication skills. Despite the fact that her job requires her to spend a lot of time in front of a computer screen, she stressed that face-to-face communication skills are still important.

“Get out and talk to people you don’t know,” Stant said.

By taking her own advice, Stant secured a job that allows her to be more connected to Tiffin now than ever before. Of the thousands of students that temporarily reside in the small college town, only a select few stick around after graduation. Fortunately for the Tiffin community, Stant is a TU alum who has decided to stay.

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of Assistant Professor of Marketing Dr. Kellie McGilvray’s Marketing Consulting class spent 15 weeks developing marketing plans for the Franciscan Earth Literacy Center (FELC) and Sisters of St. Francis.

The goals of the plan were to offer ways for the two organizations to rebrand and create foot traffic on the grounds. The students did extensive research on the company and its audience demographics. They offered suggestions such as integrating parents into the summer camps attended by local children, a memory lane throughout the grounds, and utilization of social media.

An additional project included marketing plans for a construction company based in Monroeville, Ohio.

Four groups offered suggestions such as direct marketing, public relations, social media, and website redesign initiatives to bolster what the company already does to build client and community relationships.

invention convention

This year’s School of Business Poster Competition themed “Invention Convention” was in February. Students who participated presented a new and innovative product, business or service.

Students were judged on professional appearance, delivery, content coverage, preparedness and creativity of their presentation.

Grant Eckleberry, Cory Frey and Tim Dilon placed first for their proposal of a mobile application known as the “Business Buddy.” The application helps people who travel to different countries by providing valuable information such as weather patterns, language translation, monetary exchange and much more.

Derek Beckman and Emily Roussel placed second for a mobile application known as “Educators Plus.” This application provides teachers of all levels the opportunity to connect, share tips, find new job opportunities and keep up with industry changes.

forensic science research presented

Senior Forensic Science student Victoria Davidson’s research paper was presented in Denver, Colorado at the American Chemical Society Conference in March. The research, a validation plan of 58 different drugs in postmortem toxicology testing, presents the results of Davidson’s internship at the Franklin County Coroner’s Office Toxicology Victoria Davidson Lab. Davidson is pursuing a career in toxicology.

mba student awarded

MBA student and First Solar Material Engineer Jerry Drennan was awarded the YOUshine CEO Award for his participation on a team that saved the company almost $6 million a year without requiring any capital investment. “I would not have been as successful on the project if I had not been a student of Tiffin University,” he said. “To get the project off the ground and running required the ability to work with and manage cross functional groups in the US and Malaysia. It also required the ability to market and communicate financial and economic benefits of 25

the project to other cross functional groups.”

etiquette dinner

To prepare TU students for everything from interviews and business meetings, to networking events and office parties, the Office of Career Development hosts a professional development training event focused on social and dining Susan Marion etiquette. The event consists of a classroom session, which covers professional dress and interview etiquette, followed by a trip to the Schriner House for a served, 4-course dinner and a lesson on the “do’s and don’ts” of dining etiquette, presented

by Tiffin University First Lady, Susan Marion.

women and gender

Junior English Education student Nicole Beard presented a paper at the SevNicole Beard enth Annual Undergraduate and Graduate Conference on Women and Gender at The University of Akron in March. The conference showcased graduate and undergraduate students’ original research in all fields of women’s and/or gender studies. The theme was, “Standing at the Crossroads: The Multiple Intersections of Self and Systems.”

Her presentation, “Strong Women and Stereotypes: The Powerful Villainess in Fairy Tales,” was about historical children’s stories with worn-out narratives that are still creating a negative impact on the way that society views WWW.TIFFIN.EDU

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community

women in powerful positions. By looking at the evil strong woman in fairy tale literature, we can gain a deeper understanding of why powerful females are associated with manipulative or cunning qualities.

math tournament

TU hosted the annual 24 Math Tournament for local 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students in May. The students played 3 rounds of 10 minutes each, with the top 3 in each grade receiving medals.

equestrian showcase

The Tiffin University Equestrian Team hosted their annual showcase performance in April. The students performed various musical acts with their equine counterparts.

The team raised funds for the Make A Wish Foundation through donations and a raffle basket.

good morning world

A Trip Down Memory Lane by Basketball Legend Jerry Lucas Jerry Lucas, first basketball player to win championships at the high school, college, pro and Olympic levels, now known as “Doctor Memory,” spoke at Tiffin University’s Good Morning World breakfast in March.

Jerry Lucas He described the techniques he used to become a “basketball prodigy” as he’s been named by many others. Twelve to fifteen hours of practice making 5,000 shots a day that were specifically aimed according to his visualization of the rim as a clock face only begins to explain the systems he created that made him a legendary player. After retirement, Lucas’ mission to change the way people learn has also resulted in the authoring of over sixty books, creation of audio courses, overseeing of creation of videos and interactive CD-ROM games, and countless personal appearances across the United States and around the world.

earth wall

On Earth Day in April, TU’s Green Committee and AVI (TU’s food service provider), built and dedicated an herb wall to serve as a sustainable innovation and support clean and healthy living, reduce noise, and provide herbs for use in cooking. Herb walls improve the quality of air while balancing the humidity within a room.

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women’s leadership seminar

TU and PEPSICO presented the 2nd Annual Women’s Leadership Seminar in March. Over 200 attendees participated in the seminar which was a three-hour program focusing on inspiring females to aspire for higher levels of achievement in their personal and professional lives.

Included was a reception, keynote address, and a workshop facilitated by an expert from Alden & Associates, Inc., a consulting firm for higher education.

Interest in this type of program is extremely appealing to professional women who embrace life-long learning and to female students who are ambitious and realize the opportunity for creating networks in their college community.

This year’s keynote was given by Rylynn Stoner – a trained, certified Nuclear and Aerospace Engineer in Washington D.C. Rylynn is employed by the U.S. Naval Executive Office for Aircraft Carriers as a Deputy Program Assistant Manager for the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON. Stoner spoke of her professional leadership journey in the field of engineering. After com-

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Rylynn Stoner

Alfreeda Goff

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pleting her degree at The Ohio State University, she began her career as a nuclear engineer in the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. Since that first leap, Stoner has moved to Hawaii, San Diego, Japan and Washington D.C. rising through the ranks of engineering and management of nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers. She is now the Deputy Assistant Manager at the refueling complex overhaul program for the USS George Washington. Stoner continues to further her education that will allow her to fulfill more duties within her department.

In addition to her career, Rylynn has travelled and completed physical endurance goals including mountain biking in the Amazon rainforest, climbing Machu Picchu and Mount Kilimanjaro, surfing in Bali, and sailing and scuba diving around the islands of Fiji.

Workshop topics focused on personal attributes of situational leadership and strategies to address the leadership ambition gap.

The workshop was led by Alfreeda Goff, Senior Associate Commissioner and Chief of Staff at Horizon League.

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business summit to success

holi festival of colors

TU’s International Student Advising Office, along with the International Cultural Center, hosted the Holi Festival of Colors in April in the Legacy Courtyard. The festival has many purposes in addition to celebrating the beginning of spring. According to Jamie Marinis, Coordinator of International Student Programs at Tiffin University, Holi is an opportunity to bring people from all religions, ethnicities and backgrounds together to celebrate and enjoy the arrival of spring. Overall, this is one of the most spirited and beloved festivals of the Hindu calendar.

The School of Business, coordinated by the Business Club, hosted their 4th annual Summit to Success in March. The keynote, “Inspiring Legendary Leadership,” was given

by Terrance C.Z. Egger, CEO of the 2016 Republican National Convention. Egger was former CEO of the Terrance C.Z. Egger Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Egger shared his understanding of leadership and how it must be a shared responsibility.

He noted that setting a destination or goal for employees to reach and encouraging them along the way will help them individually and the company as a whole. He added that the DNA of a leader includes communication, empathy and authenticity.

The Tiffin University and Heidelberg University (TU/BERG) Career Fair followed the Summit. Employers from a variety of organizations, including public safety, banking, petroleum, counseling, hospitality, and healthcare, provided information to students and alumni about full-time, part-time, summer, and internship employment opportunities.

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easter

The community Christi Thomas Memorial Easter Egg Hunt was held in April.

a carnival of cultures

The 24th International Dinner was held in March. The theme, “A Carnival of Cultures,� included the diverse talents of students, a variety of musical acts from the Music Department and other special guest entertainers throughout the evening.

The dinner featured a variety of cuisines from across the globe with recipes submitted by international students and employees.

During the 2014-15 academic year, 299 international students attended Tiffin University representing more than 30 countries. The International Dinner provides a unique opportunity for International and American students to share their heritage with the campus and the community through food, arts, and entertainment.

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faculty news haan presents at entrepreneurship conference

lecture on milton in brazil

Associate Professor of English James Rovira was invited by The Milton Studies Research Group at the Federal University of Minas Gerais to deliver a lecture as part of the 2015 Milton Lecture Series in Brazil. Rovira’s talk connects philosopher of language theorist Robert Brandom with Milton’s famous tract on freedom of the press, Areopagitica. The paper is titled “Pragmatics in the Public Square: Robert Brandom and Milton’s Areopagitica.”

Dr. Perry Haan, Professor of Marketing, presented a paper at the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE) conference in January. The paper, Strategic Planning in Small Business: Exploring its Influence on TransitionDr. Perry Haan al Growth, was part of the Small Business Planning track at the conference.

Haan also participated in an accreditation visit for the European Council for Business Education (ECBE). He was part of a team the evaluated the business programs as Mendel University in Brno, Czech Republic in February.

ohio’s criminal justice system

“Ohio’s Criminal Justice System,” written by TU Professors Kevin Cashen, Joshua Hill, and R. James Orr, was published by Carolina Academic Press. Ideal for use in undergraduate classrooms, the book links trends of crime in Ohio to national trends, showing the operations of the police, courts and corrections agencies, and addressing state-specific justice elements like drug and veteran’s courts. In addition to the coverage of the major elements of Ohio’s justice system, the book addresses the juvenile courts in Ohio as well as Ohio’s use of the death penalty.

national sports forum

Dr. Bonnie Tiell and Kelley Walton (Ohio University) presented “The Impact of Predictive Indexing and the 4S Performance Model for Retaining Employees,” at the National Sports Forum in Cincinnati in February. The National Sports Forum is the largest annual cross gathering of the top team sports marketing, sales, promotions and event entertainment executives in North America.

appel publishes chapter-presents at conference

silly love songs

Dr. James Rovira submitted the essay “Silly Love Songs and Gender in Guardians of the Galaxy,” to the edited anthology Assemble!: The Making and Re-Making of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which is expected to be released by McFarland & Company, Inc. in 2016. This essay explores how Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy serves as a culmination, at least to this point, in Marvel’s development of both its female characters and its presentation of gender. Guardians of the Galaxy pits a hypermasculine and aggressive cosmos against a feminized earth, the latter defeating the former using, of all things, 1970s love songs.

Dr. Jonathan Appel, Professor of Psychology and Criminal Justice, co-authored a chapter in a new book, “Foundations of Couples, Marriage, and Family Counseling,” published

by John Wiley & Sons. Appel and his wife, Dr. Dohee Kim-Appel, co-wrote the chapter, “Bowenian Family Systems Theory: Approaches and Applications.” The chapter explores the Bowen Family Systems Theory, which is one of the most comprehensive explanations for the development of psychological problems from a systemic and multigenerational perspective.

Dr. Appel presented at the Ohio Marriage and Family Therapy Conference in Columbus in April. The research presented, “The Application of a Family Systems Model to Organizations: An Emerging Approach,” describes Dr. Appel’s published empirical research project which had examined the relationship between Maslach’s burnout model and family systems researcher, David Olson’s integrated multisystem assessment and health model where family dynamics are at the center.

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job preparedness

Dr. Rovira was interviewed by Tim Muma of LJN (Local Jobs Network) Radio about the topic of college graduates’ job preparedness. The interview, “Classroom to Boardroom: Why Are Students Inadequately Prepared for the Workforce?” is a part of the Local Jobs Network website that connects employers and prospective employees in local job markets across the country.

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the skull as a cave

the attraction of religion

“Imagining the Mind-Body Relation: The Skull as a Cave in Blake’s Mythological Works,” written by Dr. James Rovira, was accepted for the national 2015 College English Association conference held in March.

Dr. Jason Slone, Associate Professor of Psychology and Humanities, co-edited the book, The Attraction of Religion: A News Evolutionary Theory of Religion with Bloomsbury Academic Publishing in London, U.K. Released in April, the book explores a theory about the evolutionary origins Dr. Jason Slone and functions of religion that Slone has been formulating for a few years.

According to Slone, the key idea is that religion may have evolved as a way to manage, among else, adaptive problems related to mating and reproduction.

Dr. James Rovira

blogging and gaming

Dr. Lisa Kahle-Piasecki presented her paper, “Blogging and Gaming for Learning in Small Business Management,” at the National Business and Economics Society Conference held in Playa Bonita, Panama in March.

The paper was based on her research that examined how the use of digital games or simulations, combined with Dr. Lisa Kahle-Piasecki the use of a blog for reflection on course material, supports learning in the classroom. She was also the session chair for Education at the conference.

fitness, exercise, and physical culture

Professor of English, Dr. Vincent Moore, presented the first two chapters of his novel in progress, “Suits at the Popular Culture Association/ American Culture Association Conference in April in New Orleans. The creative writing presentation was part of the Creating the Fit Body panel, which was the first panel in the new Dr. Vincent Moore area, Fitness, Exercise, and Physical Culture. The novel is about a middle aged man experiencing body dysphoria and the life that led up to that sense of alienation.

hope and self efficacy

Professor Dr. Fang-Mei Law, together with her husband Dr. Gwo-Jen Guo, published a paper, “Correlation of Hope and Self-Efficacy with Job Satisfaction, Job Stress, and Organizational Commitment for Correctional Officers in the Taiwan Prison System.” The paper appeared in the International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology in March.

eleven faculty promotions

Dr. Thomas Debbink was promoted to Professor of Management. n Dr. Sushmita Ghosh was promoted to Professor of Science. n Dr. Lillian Schumacher was promoted to Professor of Management. n Dr. Bonnie Tiell was promoted to Professor of Management n Steven Borawski was promoted to Assistant Professor of Psychology. n Natalie McClain was promoted to Assistant Professor of Mathematics. n Sami Mejri was promoted to Assistant Professor of Science. n Pete Piraino was promoted to Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice & Security Studies. n Nicholas Reinhard was promoted to Assistant Professor of Social Sciences. n Diego Hernandez was promoted to Assistant Professor of Management. n Michael Kidd was promoted to Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems. n

Dr. Fang-Mei Law

practical moral problems

Professor of Philosophy and China Program Coordinator, Dr. Zhaolu Lu, edited the textbook, Practical Moral Problems: An Introduction to Ethics published by Linus Publications.

The textbook introduces students to ethics through a critical examination of various moral problems present in a contemporary society.

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bread elegant

business partnerships

“Bread Elegant,” a short film written and directed by Dr. Matt Bereza, Associate Professor of Psychology, and Lee Fearnside, Associate Professor of Art, that was recently accepted into the 2014 Ohio Independent Film Festival was selected for screening at the Film Kitchen in Pittsburgh in March. Film Kitchen is a program of Pittsburgh Filmmakers and is one of the oldest, continually running micro-cinemas in the U.S. The film forces one to think about the micro and macro agricultural forces at play and how they impact our economy and our health. The film highlights how art and psychology intersect in the food systems world, and how local foods positively affect thought and behavior.

Kristina Collins, Assistant Professor of Management, and Dr. Teresa Shafer, Professor of Management and Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, presented, “A Multi-Faceted Approach to University and Business Partnerships: Executive/Student Action Research Collaboration, a Corporate University, and a Graduate-Level Fellow Program,” at the 2014 Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) International Conference in Athens, Greece.

Kristina Collins

Dr. Teresa Shafer Bread Elegant Video Still

health challenge

Faculty and staff embarked on a Health Challenge – an opportunity for employees to be given tools they need to live a healthy lifestyle.

Participants were surveyed and measured for a health profile, given a Movable wristband to help track their daily movements, offered exercise classes, and were advised on beneficial nutritional changes. Teams were Ana Paula Fantini created and prizes were offered as extra motivation.

Ana Paula Fantini, Instructor of Exercise Science and Biology, led the launch and follow through of the program. “I decided to initiate the challenge because I felt I could use the Exercise Science Lab to benefit employees and I believe that the importance and benefits of physical activity would push faculty and staff to be more active. The challenge is a fun and competitive program.”

survey of special needs

Director of Student Accessibility Services Sally Kloepfer and her students from her Survey of Special Needs Education class took a field trip to North Baltimore Middle/High School to observe their Special Education Services. From math and language arts to gym and lunch, the class observed the special needs students as they went through a normal day.

TU students gathered valuable information about how the requirements of special needs teaching affect their future as educators in elementary, middle, and high school settings.

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trip to brazil

spring game guest coaches

TU will host a trip to Brazil, December 28, 2015 through January 4, 2016. Dr. Lisa Kahle-Piasecki, Assistant Professor of Management and Information Systems and Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence, will lead the trip which is an opportunity for participants to discover why it is an exciting time for business in Brazil as one explores the commercial centers of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Participants will enjoy historical and natural wonders for which the nation is famous. For more information, email piaseckil@tiffin.edu or visit the website: www.efcollegestudytours.com/professors-trip/1550327HF

The Tiffin University football team held their 2015 Green and Gold Spring Game in April. Four guest coaches were invited to take part in the game--President Marion, Vice President Lori Hall, Professor Teresa Shafer, and Professor Jeff Stockner. They were required to call several plays throughout the game.

It was a great opportunity for student athletes to work with others on campus as well as allow others to see how hard student athletes work.

a consortium of two – tu & heidelberg

Heidelberg and Tiffin University presidential leadership teams gathered in March under the direction of Dr. Rob Huntington, President of Heidelberg University, and Dr. Paul Marion, President of Tiffin University, to discuss opportunities for the two universities to collaborate for the betterment of service to students, each institution, and the community. Both presidents agreed, “We are better off working together.”

TU & Heidelberg Leadership Teams

The TU Dragon, HU Student Prince and students from both universities pose for a photo in downtown Tiffin.

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greek life

Greek Life at TU consists of three fraternities (Omega Psi Rho, Phi Theta Pi and Theta Eta Omicron) and four sororities (Alpha Iota, Gamma Chi Alpha, Sigma Delta Sigma, and Zeta Pi Beta). In addition, Greek Council serves as the governing body for all the Greek organizations.

Members of Greek Life hold many leadership positions on campus, complete various community service projects, organize and participate in many campus activities such as social gatherings, educational presentations, and fundraising opportunities. Greek members enjoy the support system, the leadership opportunities, and the feeling of unity and togetherness that Greek Life provides.

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tu ramps up mscj in justice administration Once again, Tiffin University is at the forefront of providing the tools necessary to meet the world’s challenges by ramping up its Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Justice Administration (JA) by offering it in a seated format in addition to the online format.

The degree has been offered online since 2000, but starting in the fall 2015 semester, TU will expand this degree by offering it on-campus on Saturdays in a hybrid format. Students will take two classes at a time in a seven-week period.

The program is cohort-based.

The cohort setting (students begin and end the degree together) provides personal access to faculty who bring years of executive, operations-level, clinical, academic and research experience to the classroom.

Students who study in the cohort setting often build lifelong personal and professional relationships.

For additional information, contact Lacy Ellis, MSCJ Graduate Program Chair, ellislk@tiffin.edu .

father of two the opportunity to work at his own pace.

“One of the most difficult steps in returning to school was trying to work it into my hectic schedule without taking away from my commitments to my family and my job,” he says.

“Tiffin University’s courses allowed me to work when I had time, which was often late at night or in the early morning. I never felt rushed at any time, and my professors always answered in a timely manner when I had questions.”

Hall explains that, even though he was studying online, he managed to make valuable connections with the instructors and other students, who, according to him, were “an excellent mix of experienced law enforcement and business professionals combined with those who were just entering the professional world.”

In turn, he believes those relationships have benefitted him both personally and professionally. In addition to his MSCJ-JA, Hall received a degree in Homeland Security from TU in 2006.

He is convinced the degrees he received at TU have aided in his position as a front line supervisor with the department.

Even though he has six years before he’s eligible to retire, Hall eventually would like to run his own detective agency.

He’s also exploring the idea of teaching others in the lawenforcement community.

Whatever his future holds, it’s clear that Tiffin University has offered him the vital tools necessary to tackle pertinent issues in the ever-evolving world of criminal justice.

“Personally, returning to TU has allowed me to set a good example for my children and given me the ability to better provide for our future,” Hall says. “Professionally, the degrees I received from Tiffin University and the concepts I have been exposed to have assisted me in becoming a better supervisor.”

meet two recent graduates Keith Hall Keith Hall, Class of 2006 and 2015, a 20-year law-enforcement veteran who currently serves as a sergeant with a suburban Columbus police department, says the MSCJ-JA program at TU has prepared him well for future leadership roles.

“Tiffin’s Justice Administration program appealed to me because I had recently been promoted to detecKeith Hall tive with my agency and I believed it would help make me a better leader,” he explains, adding the program highlights topics relevant to today’s range of challenges in the world of criminal justice — from identity fraud schemes and radical extremists to the legal and ethical challenges related to employee supervision and motivation.

The online version of the degree also gave the married

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Richelle Ettel As a juvenile probation officer in Morrow County, Richelle Ettel has the ability to be a guiding force in the lives of at-risk children. The 2015 MSCJ-JA graduate is quick to say she loves her job.

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assist them in obtaining the tools they need to graduate from school and be successful adults,” she says.

After she earned a Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree from TU in 2014, Ettel realized that continuing her education was a vital part of aspiring to meet her long-range goals in criminal justice, particularly in the probation-officer field.

She chose Tiffin University’s MSCJ-JA program because it offered her the opportunity to work full time and still obtain her other personal goals.

“I have always hoped to one day be able to work in a supervisory role.

I hope to work in a management role as a chief probation officer and have the ability to make a difference in offenders’ lives,” she explains. “The Justice Administration degree has set me up for success on the path to that management/supervisory role.”

Even the judges she works for in Morrow County approved of her deciRichelle Ettel sion. According to Ettel, they were pleased that she was able to continue to work full time and still be goal-oriented enough to finish her education at TU. She credits the faculty and staff at TU for making that experience as stress-free as possible.

“They have always gone above and beyond to help me, and have always been more than flexible with my intense work and home schedule,” Ettel says. “Anytime I had any questions, comments or concerns, a friendly TU staff member was able to assist and direct me and fix any problem that I may have had.”

“The Justice Administration degree has opened doors in my current career and for my future,” she continues. “The skills I have learned at TU are skills I am able to apply in my everyday career. I cannot tell you how happy I am with my degree and the choices that I have made.”

Ettel believes she’s found her niche in her work as a juvenile probation officer. She has recently instituted a summer community program, book club, running/walking club, journaling exercises and a mentoring program in an effort to keep the at-risk children out of the justice system. Eventually — in addition to her goal of becoming a chief probation officer — she would like to teach college-level classes while maintaining her job as a probation officer.

“I have learned so much at Tiffin University,” Ettel says. “I am looking forward to what my future has in store for me and all the opportunities I will have by obtaining this degree.”

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music news rees in demand

Her passion has come from the personal interactions and written correspondence with fans. “Knowing that people look up to me makes me realize there’s a certain amount of responsibility that comes with what I’m doing,” she said.

Brad Rees, Director of the Music Department was in demand as a guest conductor, clinician, adjudicator and presenter throughout the spring 2015 semester. In January he conducted the Louisville Chamber Choir as they provided the background vocals for rocker Ben Folds’ performance with the Louisville Orchestra. This was Brad Rees the fifth time Rees has been part of Folds’ orchestral performances, having sung background vocals for the Pittsburgh, Indianapolis and Columbus Symphony concerts. The Louisville show was the first time he was invited to serve as conductor. In February Rees served as a presenter and presider for the Ohio Music Education Association’s annual state conference, leading a session designed to help music teachers effectively use sound reinforcement and recording technology in the classroom, and presiding over vocal jazz and contemporary a cappella performances. In March he served as guest conductor for the Putnam County Honors Choir, a select ensemble of the top students from nine Ohio high schools and also served as adjudicator for two choir competitions in Ohio and Indiana.

afro blue

Afro Blue, the critically acclaimed vocal group that leapt to fame as contestants on NBC’s The Sing-Off, performed at TU in January. The 10-person ensemble specializes in vocal jazz and contemporary a cappella, and has been featured on NPR’s All Things Considered and performed with Bobby McFerrin, The Manhattan Transfer, Marvin Hamlisch, and The National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) Pops, and many others.

The group has appeared at The Kennedy Center, Harlem’s Apollo Theatre, and at President Barak Obama’s White House Christmas party to name a few.

youtube sensation heather traska

In 2012, Heather Traska, a young YouTube channel singer most known for her a cappella medley of Disney songs and more than two million You Tube views, chose TU as the institution where she would pursue a degree in Professional Music. “Tiffin University challenges students to go beyond Heather Traska what they thought they wanted to do,” Traska said. “I am really grateful for the opportunities that TU has given me.”

“Because of Tiffin’s vocal instruction, my skills have been refined and renewed. I have learned about video editing, music theory, and business—all of which will help me fulfill my goal of becoming a YouTube video making professional.”

Traska has also been a member of a number of TU’s touring ensembles and choral groups. Her participation in ensembles has resulted in collaborations with fellow TU musicians for several YouTube performances. According to Traska, she wants to use her YouTube channel as a platform of expression to create a positive impact on her audience as well as contribute to charity.

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educational “informance”

J Rawls, internationally-acclaimed hip hop producer and Adjunct Instructor of Music Business at TU, presented an educational session, “Hip Hop Elements,” in April. The workshop was open to the public and included performances, demonstrations, discussions and hands-on instruction in J Rawls the four elements of hip hop. Rawls is known as a leading hip hop educator, DJ and emcee, and served as producer for a variety of artists including Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Aloe Blacc, and others.

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groove for thought

worldbeat singer-songwriters

TU’s Music Department hosted Groove for Thought in concert at the Ritz Theatre in April. Groove for Thought may be best known for their 2010 appearance on the second season of NBC’s vocal competition show The Sing-Off. The seven-singer group performs jazzy classics combining the upbeat styles of The Manhattan Transfer with the soothing sounds of Take Six. The group has toured extensively throughout North America and Europe.

TU’s Music Department hosted Worldbeat Singer-Songwriters Erik Santos and Toko Shiiki in February. Erik Santos is a composer/multi-instrumentalist and a Professor of Music Composition at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre and Dance. While he was resident composer for the butoh dance/theater group Dairakudakan in Tokyo in 2002, he met artist/singer Toko Shiiki. Erik and Toko have recently begun turning their collaboration toward movie making and animation.

flute choir

The TU Flute Choir, directed by Dr. Terry Collins, made their performance debut in March during an art reception and wine tasting event, “Blake in the Heartland.” The TU Flute Choir performed musical selections by Sibelius, Holst, Brahms, and Beethoven among others.

Erik Santos and Toko Shiiki

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art news

theatre news

barbara miner exhibition

the wayside motor inn

The Dragon’s Den Players presented a funny and moving play, “The Wayside Motor Inn,” by A.R. Gurney in March. “This play is a product of realism, a movement that began in the 1870’s and spawned the idea that theatre ought to depict life as it truly is, rather than to omit or gloss over those occasions that bring discomfort, confusion, or alarm,” said Dr. Mary Grennen, Associate Professor of English and Director of Theatre Arts. “It revolved around five pairs of characters, each facing intense conflict in a particular domestic situation. As we witness their skirmishes stemming from marital strife, sexual anxiety, parental control, illegal drug use, and aging, we come away with a better understanding of our loved ones and perhaps ourselves.”

Artist Barbara WF Miner’s exhibition, “Portrait of an Artist,” premiered in TU’s Diane Kidd Gallery in February. The multimedia installation was based off of Miner’s time abroad. “It is the result of my reflection on preciousness and gratitude,” Miner said.

“It is rooted in the cross-cultural pracBarbara Miner tice of offering thanks. The individual pieces, 3600 laser etched tokens, were designed in response to my interest in Tibetan prayer flags, Japanese shrines encrusted with wooden ema, and tiny metal Milagros left in church niches.”

blake in the heartland

“Blake in the Heartland” was a month-long celebration in March of responses to the work of British poet and printmaker William Blake. The exhibition featured creative responses to the work of Blake by regional artists as well as facsimile reproductions of Blake’s works by In 1788, William Blake invented Blake scholar and curaa method of relief etching that he called “illuminated printing.” This tor Michael Phillips, who method made it possible to print has curated major Blake both the text of his poems and the exhibits at the Ashmolean images that he created to illustrate at Oxford, the Metropolithem from the same copper plate tan Museum of Art in New in an engraver’s rolling press.

York, the Tate in London, and the Petite Palais in Paris. Activities included a lecture by Dr. Phillips on Blake’s illuminated printmaking methods, a printmaking demonstration, and a panel discussion on Blake with scholars.

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endowment scholarships can change a life In an era when the cost of higher education is increasing, earning an endowed scholarship from a generous donor can be a life-changing experience. Tiffin University junior Grant Ekleberry is proof how the generosity of others impacts a student’s dreams.

“Regardless of the dream, everyone will need a little help along the way,” Ekleberry told the group of paGrant Ekleberry trons at the University’s 2nd Annual Donor Recognition Luncheon in April. “I was ecstatic when I found out that I had been awarded the Wayne and Virginia Kurtz Zahn Scholarship. I knew it would greatly aid me in the pursuit of my goal to pay for college on my own.”

This year, funds from 28 endowed scholarships were given to 75 students. Ten more scholarships are currently in the fundraising stage to meet the minimum endowment level before they can be offered to students.

President Paul Marion said that the endowed scholarships are important to making higher education affordable.

TU alum and COO of Lamplight Communities, Bobby Petras, added how being given a scholarship impacted his time at the University. He encouraged current recipients to give back after they have graduated, whether it is monetary, volunteering or mentoring. Petras has orchestrated the Annual Aaron Ciak Golf Scramble that has raised money to fund the Aaron Ciak Memorial Scholarship in memory of his close friend and TU alumnus.

Ekleberry said the scholarship has made it possible for him to eventually remain at TU to pursue a Master of Business Administration degree.

“Tiffin University’s affordability has put me in a position where I can successfully pay for my undergraduate degree, without being stricken by a large debt,” he said, adding that the generous scholarships from donors reach well beyond the financial advantages.

“For me, receiving a scholarship means that somebody had the confidence to support me in pursuit of my goals and they want to see me succeed,” he explained. “Everyone comes to college with a dream. These scholarships provide the assistance necessary to make many of these dreams a reality.”

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A Note from our Director of Alumni Relations We had a blast visiting alumni this past spring semester. We traveled to Florida to visit our alumni residents and snow birds, hosted a successful FORE Fun in Florida golf outing, held numerous alumni events on campus, welcomed the class of 2015 to the TU Alumni Association, celebrated the class of 1965 (50 year class anniversary), hit the road with the TU Comes to YOU program and hosted “Summer Fun for all” events.

I am so thankful for all of the alumni support these past two years as the Director of Alumni Relations. We are always looking for ways to increase our engagement with our alumni. We know that it is not always easy to get back to campus, so that is why we have instituted the TU Comes to YOU program and the Summer Fun for All. It is our hope that we can bring TU to where you live and you can still feel connected.

Please reach out to me if there is anything TU can do for you. We have numerous volunteer opportunities for you and we would love to hear about all the new and exciting things happening in your lives.

Tells us about it and you will be featured in the next issue of Challenge Magazine.

past events alumni & friends cruise 2015

The 2015 trip for TU alumni and friends included a visit to Quito, Ecuador and a cruise of the Galopogos Islands. Those who participated were Dr. Bob Dornauer, Angie Dornauer, President Paul Marion, Susan Marion, Mick Pefferle, and Claire Johansen.

It’s a GREAT day to be a DRAGON! Sincerely, Vickie Galaska Director of Alumni Relations Like us! facebook.com/ TiffinUniversityAlumni Follow us! @tiffinunialumni Insta

Tiffin_University_Alumni

For more information on events, contact Vickie Galaska GalaskaVM@tiffin.edu or call 419.448.3595 www.tiffin.edu/alumni/events

meet a new staff member

We would like to welcome a new member to the Office of Alumni and Development staff, Cole Jenkins. Cole Jenkins will serve as the Graduate Assistant for Development and Alumni Relations. Cole is a 2015 graduate of Tiffin University who earned a Bachelor of Arts, studying Professional Music and Arts Administration. During his time as an undergraduate student, Cole Cole Jenkins served three years as a Resident Assistant and two years as the President of the Student Body. As an alum, Jenkins is passionate about Tiffin University, its growth, and the countless success stories that so many share. He is excited to hit the road and meet and visit with alumni.

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past events baseball first pitch raffle dinner

tampa alumni reception

February 7 Alumni, family and friends joined the TU Dragons baseball program for their annual First Pitch Raffle Dinner and Fundraiser at the Pioneer Mill of Tiffin. Head Coach Joe Wilkins stated, “This fundraiser was a great success. The amount of support we get from our families is remarkable. There were also an impressive number of alumni that attended.

Their support means a great deal to our program.

There were approximately 20 former TU players that were here and it was great to catch up with them and, from what I saw, they all had a great time.”

March 11 We had a great time visiting with alumni and friends in Tampa, Florida.

fore fun in florida

March 14 The Office of Alumni and Development hosted the 2nd Annual FORE Fun in Florida golf outing scramble and social event. We more than doubled the number of teams in the scramble as well as the number of people who attended the post-scramble social event. This event was hosted at Majestic Golf Club in Lehigh Acres, Florida and included TU alumni & friends as well as Tiffin and Seneca County community members.

men’s golf reverse raffle and silent auction dinner February 21 Alumni, family and friends gathered for the Annual Men’s Golf Reverse Raffle and Silent Auction Dinner. “So much of our success as a golf program is due to the alumni and their support. We would not be where we are without the alumni, friends and parents of TU Golf,” said Coach Darby Roggow.

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soccer alumni weekend

April 10, 11, 12 Men’s and Women’s soccer alumni enjoyed a fun weekend on campus including dinner on Friday at men’s soccer alum’s Chris Chase’s restaurant, MST Pub & Grub. On Saturday, they competed in friendly alumni versus current team games. More than 40 soccer alumni returned to campus.

“The alumni are an important part of the soccer family.

Each year soccer alumni weekend gets bigger and better. They are the foundation of the soccer programs and I appreciate their support and involvement,” Head Men’s Soccer Coach Rudy Brownell.

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baseball alumni weekend

April 18, 19 TU baseball alumni and their families enjoyed food and drinks in the family lounge and were introduced in between games on Saturday. Later that evening, they enjoyed catching up with the coaching staff at the Pioneer Mill Restaurant for dinner.

“I am so proud of the involvement from our baseball alumni. They are constantly supportive whether it is through the fundraiser dinner, or catching a game. I am truly grateful for their support,” said Head baseball coach, Joe Wilkins.

cincinnati/dayton alumni reception

May 21 We had a great time visiting with alumni and friends in Cincinnati/Dayton.

3rd annual tu day at the ball park

May 24, 2015 Alumni, friends and family of TU enjoyed the 3rd Annual TU Day at the Ball Park. This annual event included the Cleveland Indians versus the Cincinnati reds, great seats, a ballpark lunch and round-trip transportation.

tennis alumni weekend

April 18, 19 Men’s and women’s tennis alumni enjoyed Tennis Alumni Weekend. They began the weekend cheering on the current men’s tennis team as they took on the University of Findlay and followed with an Alumni Social in Clouse Lobby located inside of the Heminger Center. On Sunday, the alumni competed in friendly Alumni vs Alumni matches in Heminger Center.

“It’s great to have the alumni return,” said Head Men’s and Women’s Tennis Coach, Phil Conley. “They are the foundation of our program. Having the opportunity to introduce my current team to alumni is a positive influence on the program.

The Dragon Tennis programs are a success thanks to many people, especially our alumni. I am thankful to everyone who participated and visited with us, we look forward to these events in the future.”

CASHNet donation offered Tiffin University’s website (www.tiffin.edu) facilitates secure online giving to its Annual Fund through CASHNet online e-payment processing software that is now available to donors on the Alumni Giving page.

Tiffin University students and parents currently use CASHNet online e-payment processing to pay for tuition, room and board charges and other fees via credit card, ACH and/or PIN-less debit. Extending CASHNet accessibility to the Alumni Giving webpage for online donations to the Annual Fund maintains the same thought process.

Anyone wanting to give to the Tiffin University Annual Fund can easily set up a CASHNet user account and password through the Alumni Giving website at www.tiffin.edu/alumni/support/. Additionally, Alumni may access their CASHNet accounts to register and attend events.

The Annual Fund of Tiffin University maintains the academic, campus and student services that are not covered by tuition. In fact, only 80 percent of the cost of an education at TU is covered by tuition. The balance is subsidized by the generous donations of students, parents, faculty & staff, and by the friends and family of the University.

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more than a companion KRISTEN BEITZEL, Class of 2011, was fresh out of high school in 2005 when she acquired a job as a receptionist at a local veterinary hospital.

She eventually graduated to become a veterinary technician, and although she knew she wanted a career working with animals, she never realized how the job would impact her life.

Back then, Kristen was having a rough time. The effects of a personal trauma she’d endured in high school had escalated approximately 6 months after graduation.

Emotionally, the California native was experiencing severe panic attacks, depression and other symptoms related to post traumatic stress so life became difficult and it was getting worse – until that day a black Labrador puppy showed up at the veterinary clinic with its owners.

“The owners had this Lab puppy for less than a week, but they also had three Jack Russell’s at home and they decided adopting the puppy was not the best decision they could have made,” Kristen recalled. “They asked if anyone wanted her, and I said, ‘I’ll take her.’”

Kristen named the puppy Nietzsche. At the time, she thought she was merely adopting a companion dog, but that puppy soon became her savior. Nietzsche had an intuition when it came to the Kristen’s mental issues. The pup routinely sensed the onset of a panic attack — even before she did — and reacted by body slamming her or licking her in the face. If the attack persisted, Nietzsche would find someone in another part of the house and get him or her to follow her to Kristen.

Eventually Kristen was diagnosed with the mental disorder and began treatment. As she grew stronger emotionally, she decided it was time to further her education. Although she’d given up her dream of becoming

a veterinarian, her experience with Nietzsche solidified the fact that she wanted to stay in the business end of the veterinary field.

“I started looking for business degrees online and saw that Tiffin University ranked high,” she said. In 2011, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management and now works as the practice administrator at three Valdez Veterinary hospitals based near San Francisco.

“I oversee about 54 employees,” she commented. “I also oversee finances, scheduling, resources and hiring/firing. I work with both doctors and clients.”

Ten years later, Nietzsche continues to work with Kristen, particularly after she was diagnosed six years ago with another debilitating disease.

“In 2009, I was diagnosed with Lupus, which is an auto-immune disease. When Nietzsche won’t let me out of her sight, it usually means my immune system is in the process of going haywire,” Kristen explained.

“She ‘braces’ for me, helps me with stairs and will even pick up items when needed.”

Nietzsche has completed service dog training, and most recently, was in the running for the 2015 American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards. Although Nietzsche did not garner the top spot in her category, that fact is of little consequence to Kristen who knows that her beloved black Lab is a hero every day.

“Not all disabilities are visible. If you saw me, you’d never know I had trouble walking or that I had panic attacks,” she said, “I truly believe I would not be here today if this miracle hadn’t come into my life. The petite Labrador has saved me in more ways than one. She is a natural hero.”

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two sisters sharing a dream Siblings traditionally have been known to quarrel, cause general chaos, and compete for the title of the reigning offspring.

From Jan and Marcia Brady to Raymond and Robert Barone, sibling rivalry can strike a feud between any set of relatives. Tiffin University alumnae TONYA COUTURE-GRUBB and TINA COUTURE SCHANK were not exceptions to this phenomenon.

“As children, we didn’t like each other. There was a lot of competition,” said Tina. As adults, however, they compete as a team.

Together, they have opened two restaurants in Port Clinton and Tiffin. The online menus for the restaurants describe the women as “two sisters sharing childhood memories and grown-up dreams.”

Their “grown-up dreams” took flight when JT’s Catawba Café opened in April 2013. The restaurant serves a variety of breakfast and lunch specials, and it has gained a reputation for delectable donuts. After the success of the Port Clinton location, the duo decided to bring their specialties to Tiffin, where they opened JT’s Bagel Bar in February. The Sycamore Street restaurant offers their famous donuts and bagels, as well as a modified selection of sandwiches and breakfast items.

“It was just the perfect spot,” said Tonya. With two universities and two high schools, Tiffin’s demographic was promising for the small business owners. So far, the students have been essential clientele.

“Tiffin University has been so supportive,” Tonya continued. Tina noted a large number of customers from the University’s music department, in particular.

Tina, TU class of 1998 and 2001, and Tonya, TU class of 1999 and 2012, each earned associate and bachelor’s degrees from TU. Tina earned her degrees in business, while Tonya’s degrees are in criminal justice. Outside of the restaurants, Tonya uses her degrees as a truancy mediator for the Ottawa County Juvenile Court.

Neither of them fit the mold of a traditional college student by the time they reached Tiffin. Both women originally attended large public universities and disliked them, but continued at TU after they had started families. They praised the University’s close-knit environment that larger campuses lack, including personal connections with faculty and pressure to attend class.

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“I don’t think I would have fit in or been as successful, say, had I gone to a larger university at the point I was in my life,” Tina said.

“TU professors know you by name. Everybody wants to be acknowledged,” said Tonya.

“And part of you is like, ‘Oh my gosh, if I’m not there, they’re going to know.’ You didn’t have that at a bigger university. [At TU], if you’re not there, it is noticed.”

Only one class stood between Tonya and her bachelor’s degree for over a decade, and she finally pushed herself to complete that course in 2012 so she wouldn’t be in college at the same time as her son, who hopes to follow his mother’s footsteps in the criminal justice program at TU soon. She used her time away from the classroom to her advantage, though.

“When I did go back, I had real-life work experience. I was older, and I was sitting next to the young, typical college-age student, but then, when we would have conversations, I had something to contribute,” she said. “It can be a little intimidating. […] Some of these kids could have been my kids, but I was extremely comfortable. Never once did I feel out of place.”

Both women appreciated the University’s concern for adult learners with busy personal lives. “[Professors] know everybody has real life outside of the classroom. People have real life issues and things that go beyond what it says you need to do on that syllabus. […] I was a mom. When I left that classroom, I had a kid to get to pre-school, I had diapers to change, I had to go the grocery store,” said Tonya. “They make it very possible for somebody with a family to go back and complete their education.” Her sister agreed.

“I actually gave birth on the day of one of my finals,” said Tina. She also noted that her professors, especially the one who made other exam arrangements after she went into labor, made the transition back to school comfortable.

Overall, both sisters agreed that the personal atmosphere and professional faculty of TU were vital to their academic success.

“It took some time, but I did it. It was worth it,” said Tonya.

“If I could do it over again, I’d go to Tiffin [University] right out of high school.”

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save the date – fall 2015 CLUB MEMBER RECEPTION – Saturday, August 1 Join the Office of Alumni and Development at Dock’s Beach House for the annual club member “thank you” reception.

PRESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION – Friday, October 16 Join us in welcoming TU’s new President, Dr. Curtis B. Charles.

TU COMES TO YOU – August 21, September 17, October 15, November 19 Check out the website and social media for locations:

alumni programming

TU Comes to YOU Program The Office of Alumni and Development love to meet and visit with our alumni and friends. TU Comes to YOU events are typically hosted the 3rd Thursday of every month in a city near you. Contact the Office of Alumni and Development or visit our website for more details (additional days and locations can be added. Be sure to check the events page on www.tiffin. edu/alumni/events and our social media outlets). Call Vickie to schedule a visit at 419.448.3595 or email galaskavm@tiffin.edu.

HOMECOMING 2015 HIGHLIGHTS Friday, October 2 Men’s and Women’s Soccer games • Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony – PLEASE JOIN US! This year, TU will Show Your Dragon Pride! induct: Rachel Richardson (Softball), Todd Casey (Cross Country/Track and Field), Carola Andersson (Women’s Soccer), Ronald Mugabi (Men’s Soccer) and Ricardo Deliz (Baseball) • Homecoming Party on the deck of the Pioneer Mill Restaurant

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Recruit a Dragon This program was established to promote a connection between TU and prospective students during the admissions process and to help build relationships between alumni and prospective TU students from across the country and around the world. Tiffin University depends on our alumni to help identify and recruit talented students for possible admission.

Our alumni are our international ambassadors. They create invaluable word-of-mouth marketing by taking their knowledge of our institution to their hometowns and countries and into their professional and social networks. By communicating with prospective students, you will enable Tiffin University to expand into diverse places. By helping the institution become bigger, stronger and more successful, alumni are also enhancing the value of their own degree qualification. By sharing your collegiate experience and professional success with prospective students, you illustrate the benefits of a TU education.

To learn more or to sign up as an Alumni Admissions Volunteer please visit www.tiffin.edu/alumni/association

Saturday, October 3 • NEW DAY THIS YEAR! - 4th Annual Aaron Ciak Memorial Golf Outing at Seneca Hills Golf Course (registration at 9:00 a.m., tee-time 10:00 a.m.). All alumni are welcome to participate. Funds raised from this Annual Golf Outing will go to The Aaron Ciak Memorial Scholarship.

• Annual 25+ Year Reunion Breakfast - Join your fellow classmates and alumni for breakfast to celebrate your 25+ years since graduation.

• Homecoming Tailgate and Football Game at the stadium.

Kick-off at 3:00 p.m.

• Annual Music Alumni Reception.

Dragon Connect Alumni Mentoring The Dragon Connect program was launched through a partnership between Tiffin University’s Office of Alumni and Development and the Office of Career Development.

The mission of the program is to provide an opportunity to connect current Dragons with Tiffin University graduates or friends of Tiffin University for the purpose of career exploration, advice and aid in the development of professional networks. Alumni who are seeking a career change may also find Dragon Connect a great resource. We are proud that graduates and friends of the University are willing to serve as mentors and continue to lead a life of leadership, excellence and service.

To learn more or to sign up as an Alumni Admissions Volunteer please visit www.tiffin.edu/alumni/association

October 2015 • 3rd Annual D.C. Alumni Event Tiffin University alumni in the Washington D.C. area are invited to mix and mingle with other alumni and TU faculty member, Dr. Steve Hurwitz.

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alumni achievement awards The Tiffin University Alumni Achievement and Young Alumni Achievement awards were presented in April at TU’s annual Academic Honors Ceremony. The Alumni Achievement Awards were added to the Academic Honors Ceremony to show students examples of successful graduates.

The Alumni Achievement Award is presented to honor outstanding alums for their achievements, leadership and contributions to their profession, community and their alma mater.

This year’s recipient, Steven Grubbs, Class of 2000, was hired by the Westerville Police Department after graduation. He completed the Ohio Highway Patrol Academy and began working as a patrol officer in Westerville, Ohio. In 2003, he started work as a Field Training Officer and to date has helped train 33 full-time Westerville officers. Steve was also instrumental in overhauling the Field Training process, which included his participation in building various Scenario Days as a method of providing hands-on experience to new officers. Officer Grubbs was nominated for Officer of the Year in 2002, 2003, 2005, 2008, and 2012.

The Young Alumni Achievement Award is presented to honor the achievements of young alums who are outstanding leaders in their profession and community, bringing honor to Tiffin University and demonstrating the promise of further distinction.

This year’s recipient, Sara Dunn, Class of 2010, has started two companies — Dunn Beverage International and 11Web. Dunn Beverage imported wine from France and Australia and grew to nine distributors in six states.

11Web is a full-service marketing agency that has served more than 50 clients. Sara has found her passion in helping businesses market their goods and services and ultimately reach their goals.

“The Alumni Achievement Awards are an opportunity for us to show pride and commitment as well as showcase our outstanding alumni,” said Vickie Galaska, TU’s Director of Alumni Relations. “It was an honor to present the alumni awards to Steven and Sara. They are both very accomplished in their respective fields and positive contributors to their communities.”

steven grubbs

his dream. “I always wanted a job in law enforcement and Tiffin has helped me to achieve that goal.”

Grubbs commented that he feels extreme pride in being a graduate of Tiffin University. He added that many of his friends and co-workers have continued their education at TU. “The school has made some great advances in the last 15 years and has become one of the best schools around, period,” he remarked. “I am honored to have been a part of Tiffin’s past, and I can’t wait for the future.”

In his address to the current students, the recipient of the Alumni Achievement Award told the undergraduates to dream big, have goals, work hard to accomplish them — and never settle for average.

“Determination and heart will take you far. Live up to your potential,” he said. “Tiffin University has helped you to reach that potential.”

Steven Grubbs is not a fan of “average,” and his work is a reflection of that. The Westerville police officer has accomplished many things during his career, but one of the most important achievements began in 2009, when he was assigned to build the Franklin County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

It is the second most successful task force in the nation, having been responsible for the arrest of more than 600 pedophiles — some of whom were business professionals, coaches, police officers and even clergymen.

“I have the greatest job in the world, and it is always a good day when you can change the world for the better. It’s very rewarding to me personally, and it’s hard to call it work when you are doing something that your truly love,” he said, adding that the education he received at Tiffin University was paramount to the fulfillment of

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sara dunn

There is a unique nature to entrepreneurship. For Sara Dunn, owner of 11Web and recipient of Tiffin University’s Young Alumni Achievement Award, being an entrepreneur means having the freedom to accomplish her goals in her own way.

She admits her true passion is “behind a computer,” and she and her team have built a successful business working with clients to build effective and profitable websites. In her first year as owner of 11Web, the company tripled Dunn’s revenue goals.

She credits Tiffin University’s intimate atmosphere and top-quality academic programs with giving her the tools that enabled her to strike out on her own in the business world.

“The people at TU proved to be caring and committed to a great educational experience throughout my four years in Tiffin,” Dunn said, adding that her time as a student ambassador was a highlight of her involvement at the University. “I loved giving tours. I always knew how important that first impression was. I remember being really proud whenever I made a potential student feel welcomed and at ease.” She conducts her business in much the same way.

Dunn explained that when she returns to Tiffin University, it’s like coming home.

“I think it is very rare to be able to return to a campus after five years and still be able to have great personal conversations with faculty and staff,” she said. “I will keep coming back because I am now part of making sure future students have an even better experience than I did.”

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alumni profiles Alum Jennifer Howard Publishes Second Novel Movie Release to Follow

JENNIFER HOWARD class of 2011

Tiffin University alum Jennifer Howard’s second young adult novel Tracers, was published by Putnam Juvenile in January under the name J.J. Howard. The release date of the movie Tracers, featuring Twilight’s Taylor Lautner and The 100’s Marie Avgeropoulos, was in March.

The novel is the tale of a young bike messenger, Cam, played by Lautner, struggling to free himself of his debt to New York mafia when he runs into a beautiful stranger, Nikki (played by Avgeropoulos), engaging in the sport of parkour. Cam joins her in the underground group of teens who have turned the city into their playground. As the stakes turn into life or death, he becomes torn between his love for Nikki and his pursuit of paying off his debts.

Jennifer Howard received her Master of Humanities degree from TU in 2011. Her first young adult novel, That Time I Joined the Circus, was published by Scholastic in 2013. That first book began as an assignment for the novel writing course taught by Dr. Vincent Moore, Associate Professor of English.

Howard is currently teaching English and Humanities related classes at Lake Mary Preparatory School in Lake Mary, FL. She received her Bachelor of Arts in English from Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA. For more information about J.J. Howard and Tracers visit www.jjhowardbooks. com. The book is available online through Amazon or penguin.com

tu experience

When asked why she chose TU, Jennifer replied, “I looked at a lot of programs—I was really interested in studying writing, but there are really no quality MFA programs online that were within my reach. With TU, I loved the fact that there were so many writing courses (especially the Novel class!). I liked the fact that I could continue to study English Literature and writing but also branch out into new areas.

The course I took on Documentary Film was a particular favorite that would never have been part of either an English MA or an MFA program.”

Although Jennifer never visited campus as an online student, her favorite virtual memory was when her professor, Dr. Vince Moore told her that her first book felt like “The Catcher in the Rye” with a female protagonist. “Still the best compliment I will probably ever get as a writer,” she said.

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“Selling my first book to Scholastic is definitely my greatest accomplishment,” Jennifer said. “I hope to keep writing and hope to reach even more readers, but nothing is ever going to top the news I got in July of 2011—that I was finally going to be a published author.”

Becoming a full-time teacher is what Jennifer likes best about the career path she has chosen. “I love the students,” she said. “Recently, one of my AP kids brought me lunch— just because—and put a note on the napkin. Writing for teens is awesome as well (and I like to think I have a hint of an advantage since I spend all my time with high school students. I love writing because it gives me a creative outlet—and a great excuse to visit New York City a few times a year.”

“I really enjoyed my time at TU, and I was able to turn my senior thesis project into the next phase of my career. But in smaller ways, my time at TU was incredibly valuable,” she said.

“Going back to grad school was really rejuvenating for me as a teacher. I was reminded what it’s like to figure out an assignment, get feedback, and plan my time with multiple projects. Being able to complete my MH online was really wonderful—the program allowed for us to get to know our professors— through phone calls, online chats, etc., and, we were still able to fit in school alongside a busy life complete with job and family responsibilities—which is so important. I’m proud to be a TU alum and I’m so glad I took the chance and went back to grad school!”

RICHARD WALKER class of 2009

Alum Richard Walker Publishes Book TU Alum Richard Walker’s book Inclusive VERITAS & Justice: Digging the Reparative Opportunity for Violent & Non-Violent Offenders was published by Outskirts Press in January. Walker graduated from Tiffin University in 2009 with a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice.

“I wrote the book in response to the many problems we face in the criminal justice system e.g., the exclusion of parolees in society, high prison costs, mass incarceration, and the traditional paradigm in the court system that dictates perpetrators, especially non-violent drug offenders, should receive lengthy sentences,” Walker said. “The key conclusion is that we need to be more proactive and engage parolees and probationers in helping them to successfully reintegrate into society.”

“My TU education was phenomenal,” Richard said. “All of my professors were extremely helpful and their expertise served as motivation for me to become more interested in writing a criminal justice book.”

Richard is the Criminal Justice Lecturer at Hudson County Community College in Jersey City, New Jersey. Furthermore, he has taught courses in sociology, psychology, and addiction studies. He has conducted research on areas of restorative justice, corrections, and chemical dependency and has published work in Contemporary Justice Review and The Weekly News. He currently resides in northern New Jersey.

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Alum Andrew Dean Helps Students Achieve Goals

andrew dean class of

2012 & 2014

The calling to help others in the world of higher education has taken Tiffin native and two-time Tiffin University alum Andrew Dean on a new adventure.

Dean graduated from TU with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Marketing in 2012 and an MBA in the same field in 2014. Today, he works as a Student Services Specialist for The University of Toledo at its Schoolcraft College location.

Dean entered the undergraduate business program with intentions of pursuing a marketing position in the entertainment industry. However, those plans changed when, as an employee in the Student Success Center (now the Murphy Academic Support Center), he discovered that he truly enjoyed helping fellow students achieve their goals.

As an undergraduate student, he worked as a peer tutor and supplemental instructor. During graduate school, Dean transitioned into being the Center’s graduate assistant, taking on a leadership position that required him to manage up to 26 students as peer tutors and assist multiple directors in the academic-support department.

“My passion for helping others achieve their educational goals while in pursuit of their long-term career goals is what made me decide to tackle the higher education field,” he said. “I love being able to interact with a diverse student population on a daily basis; I would not trade it for anything in the world.”

Because of his experiences overseas, his ultimate career goal is to become an education-abroad advisor.

Dean and his close friend and fellow TU Alumni, Morgan Durbin, studied at the University of Limerick in Ireland during the fall semester of his junior year at TU. During that semester, they traveled through Ireland, Scotland, England, Spain and Italy.

“This experience has since guided my life to where I am now and plan to be in the future,” he explained. “I will be taking any opportunity afforded to me to expand my knowledge and experience by continuing to travel to different places.”

While his interests and goals are bound to take him far away from TU, he appreciates what it gave him: a valuable education and distinct career path.

editor’s note: if you or a tu graduate you know would make a great alumni profile, please email lwilliam@tiffin.edu

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1960’s

James “Jim” Unger, Class of 1961, Fremont, Ohio, writes, “In my final year at Tiffin University, I met the young lady who later became my wife and mother of our children. During the summer of 1960, Mary “Linda” Wheeler began attending TU. In 1961, I asked Linda to the Valentine’s Dance and she refused, but days later she accepted. We began dating and on June 6, 1964, and later we were married. We have a daughter, Linda, and son, James.” Jim is now retired and Linda is the owner-manager of Amish Country Deli & More.

1980’s

Willis Johnson, Class of 1982, Nassau, Bahamas, writes, “TU adequately prepared me for a career in professional accounting, which led me to my position Willis Johnson as President of Galilee College in Nassau, Bahamas.” Willis and his wife, Yvette, have five children—a daughter, Jude, who graduated from TU in May and youngest daughter, Jamie, who plans to attend TU in the fall. One son lives in Atlanta and two sons are executives at Galilee Institutions.

Carol (Gerber) Bintz, Class of 1983, Maumee, Ohio, is CEO of the Toledo Museum of Art. She wrote, “I loved the small class sizes and the personal relationships with the faculty and staff at TU. I have been able to use my education in business to obtain a job at an art museum. The mission of art education is a passion of mine and I am fortunate to be able to blend my love of art and education with my chosen career path. I went back several years ago to get my master’s degree in Leadership. Lifelong learning is important, despite the career path you have chosen.” Carol has two grandsons.

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Brad Reaman, Class of 1987, Dayton, Ohio, is a Police Officer for Huber Heights Police Department. His wife, Deborah, Class of 1991, works in real estate for Better Homes and Gardens.

C. Rich Elchert, Class of 1988, Grove City, Ohio, wrote, “I graduated in 1988 and even then I knew there was something special about TU. Every time I come back to Tiffin to Rich Elchert visit, I stop by the school and I am amazed at how much it has grown.”

Rich is a Chiropractor at Buckeye Physical Medicine.

Kevin Snyder, Class of 1988, Tiffin, Ohio, is a Licensed Insurance Agent for New York Life.

He explained, “My career offers a variety of ways for me to serve others.”

Kevin Snyder

1990’s

Joseph Geigle, Class of 1990, Hamilton, OH, is Director of Human Resources for Fort Hamilton Hospital (Kettering Health Network). His responsibilities include employee relations, recruitment and retention, benefits, compensation and performance management.

“I love working in Human Resources at a hospital,” Joe said. “After graduating from Tiffin, I focused on HR and obtained a master’s degree in labor and employment relations from the University of Cincinnati. HR gives me the opportunity to do something different every day to support the mission of our hospital,” he said. “I have the opportu60

nity to play a key role in the strategic directions of the hospital and I am very proud to say that I am a TU graduate.

I remember the small classroom sizes that enabled so many great professors to spend quality time with anyone who really wanted to succeed.” Joseph has been married to Gina for 22 years and they have 3 grown children—Grant, Gabrielle, and Garrett.

Joseph Geigle Family

Tony Dimacchia, Class of 1997, Lorain, Ohio, was named President of the Lorain City School Board in January. He serves as Education Director of Boys Tony Dimacchia and Girls Clubs of Lorain County, as Adjunct Staff at Lorain County Community College, and as Assistant Basketball Coach and Head Freshman Basketball Coach at Brookside High School in Sheffield Lake. Tony earned a master’s degree in Education from Bowling Green State University.

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2000’s

Randy “Lewie” Montgomery, Class of 2000, Roswell, New Mexico, wrote, “TU made me feel like they wanted me to be a part of their community. I wasn’t just a body required to fill a seat. I was a new member of the TU family and they provided the tools necessary to move forward. Looking back, I would never have been able to guess where I am today.” Lewie met his wife, Emily, at TU. He explained, “It took almost 2 years before she would go on a date with me!” Lewie is a teacher and Emily is a sales director. They have two children.

Not only did he meet his wife at TU, but his brother, Ryan, and brother-in-law, Alan, are also TU graduates.

Montgomery Riedel, Class of 2000, Bellbrook, OH, chose TU because of its excellent sports management and business programs. TU gave him the opportunity to participate in various extracurricular activities a larger school may have prevented such as the music program and the basketball team.

“Plus,” he said, “I was able to stay close to home in order to help and spend time with my family.”

“I learned important lessons at TU and I am impressed with what the school has done to improve the experience for students, faculty and the community.

I have a lot of memories, but, I would have to recognize the late Pat Noble – she was always there to lend a helping hand from my studies to personal life.

She was a constant positive influence on me for which I will always be thankful.”

“After nearly 18 successful years in the sales industry and with the support

of my wife Brooke, I decided to further my education and enter the medical field. I just completed my degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant and am currently working through my licensing tests.”

Josh Martin, Class of 2001, Tomahawk, Ohio, and his wife, Marissa, welcomed their daughter, Mila Mae, on November 12. She is pictured wearing a basketball Mila Martin shirt with Josh’s number from his playing days at TU (1998-2001).

Brandi Walerius, Class of 2001, Sylvania, Ohio, is the owner of Black & White Consulting located in Sylvania. She uses the skills she acquired from her Brandi Walerius TU education to advise her clients on organizational effectiveness, training, employee development, marketing, and grant/corporate writing.

Her article, “Marketing to Millenials,” was published in the fall 2014 edition of Artisan Spirit Magazine. The article addresses how the rising artisan beverage companies should be marketing themselves to the newest generation.

“Every day is different,” Brandi said. “One day I may be working with a franchise on their Operations Manual, the next I’m completing a non-profit grant, and then the next day I’m writing a magazine article as a content writer. I love the diversity and knowing that my work is impactful at helping the client achieve their business goals.

She noted that TU’s professional academic programs gave her the knowl61

edge she needed to solve managerial problems and the other challenges of the 21st century workforce. She hopes to continue to work with company visionaries to achieve their success.

Pamela Haman, MBA 2002, is the new Associate Executive Director of Tallgrass Creek Retirement Community in Kansas.

Pamela Haman

Nicole (Filibeck) Schreck, Class of 2000 and MBA 2002, Union, KY, chose TU because of its Cross Country and Women’s Basketball programs and Sports Management major. “I am very proud to be a TU grad,” she said. “My diplomas are proudly displayed in my office. The size of TU made me feel that I had family all around me.” Nicole is Director of Admissions of Beckfield College in Florence, Kentucky. She enjoys working with prospective students and their families. Nicole met her husband, Erik, in Tiffin. They have two daughters, Chloe and Madison.

Nicole (Fillbeck) Schreck Family

Tuncay Kacmaz, Class of 2004, Bor, Jonglei, South Sudan, works in the Department of Peacekeeping Missions for the United Nations.

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2000’s (continued)

David Hadam, Class of 2005, Avon, Ohio, is an Executive Recruiter for Quicken Loans Inc. in Cleveland. He wrote, “Growing up, I always had an idea of where I wanted to live and a particular dollar amount that I wanted to make.

With some hard work and passion, both came true. I get to impact people’s lives in a positive way every single day and I truly believe in what I do.”

G. Michael Davis, MSCJ 2006, Columbus, Ohio, is a Deputy Warden for the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.

He writes, “As a criminal justice G. Michael Davis professional, I have come into contact with individuals from all walks of life. I enjoy interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. I also like the tasks associated with the complex organizational challenges that exist within large diverse organizations. I am fortunate because Ohio is a leader in the field of corrections which provides a great opportunity for me.” His greatest accomplishment to date has been earning his Ph.D. in Leadership from Antioch University. Michael explained, “My Ph.D. represents a significant milestone in my life. The graduate program at TU really prepared me for the Antioch Ph.D.” He and his wife, Tracy, have three children.

Wayne Willcox, MSCJ 2006, Savannah, Georgia, was honored with the Federal 100 Award during a gala in Washington, D.C. He currently serves as Chief of Police at Armstrong State University in Savannah, Georgia. Beginning as an officer in 1972, Wayne served as Chief of Police in Piqua, Ohio, from 2006 to 2009. He is a Certified Law Enforcement Executive (CLEE), a graduate of the FBI National Academy, Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and SPRING / SUMMER 2015

Command, The Police Executive Leadership College and The Edison Leadership Institute.

“Since my graduation from Tiffin, I have received the 2013 Georgia GovWayne Wilcox ernor’s Public Safety Award for Excellence and Innovation and a 2014 Dr. Curtis McClung/Motorola Award of Excellence in addition to the 2015 Federal 100 Award,” Wayne said. “I think that the value of my graduate degree from Tiffin is measured in my ability to think and plan strategically. My professors at Tiffin, including Dr. Christiansen, were instrumental in embedding that focus and ability into my education. My success as Chief of Police is, in no small measure, a testament to the quality of the faculty at Tiffin.”

Shortly before publication, Wayne was selected as the 2015 recipient of the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators for outstanding service in areas such as policy and planning, investigations, and/or crime prevention.

Edward “Nick” Goshe III, MBA 2007, Rangely, Colorado, is CEO of Rangely District Hospital. “I enjoy healthcare and my levels of responsibility have continued to increase over the last 20 years,” said Ed. “Throughout my career, I have returned to school several times to further my education. I think working in a management level job while obtaining my MBA gave me a better understanding of the material I was learning in the classroom.” Nick and his wife, Starleen, have three children

– Chloe age 11, Kiley age 10, and Seth age 7.

Jessica Phillips, Class of 2007, McKinney, TX, is Regional Sales Director for Poplar Healthcare, McKinney, Texas. “I visit current accounts and prospect new accounts in the specialized fields of dermatology, women’s health, oncology, gastroenterology, and urology. We provide specialized diagnostic laboratory testing services to a nationwide client base. My current territory is North Texas and Oklahoma,” she said.

“It means so much to me to be a TU graduate. I could have gone to many different schools and nothing compares to the relationships and the memories that I have from Tiffin. My greatest accomplishment is being able to mentor others, provide guidance and support to colleagues to be successful in their professional and personal goals. My other greatest accomplishment is my family.” Jessica and her husband, Chris, have a daughter, Cali.

Jessica, Chris and Cali Phillips

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Amber Romigh, Class of 2007, Findlay, OH, chose TU because of the small class sizes, business school accreditation and the opportunity to continue her Amber Romigh volleyball career at the college level. Amber is the Advanced Light Products Scheduler at Marathon Petroleum Company. She is responsible for the gasoline and diesel logistics for Marathon’s newly established Northeast Region. “Marathon has a strong focus on career development,” said Amber. “During my almost 8-year career with Marathon, I have been given the opportunity to move from various departments and roles to gain diverse experiences and background in many different areas of the petroleum business without changing companies.”

are doing great!” Megan is the lead recruiter at Cielo. “My favorite campus memories include meeting my husband, building lasting friendships, and meeting great people that are still in my life today,” she said.

Rhett, Megan and Conner Adams

Bethany (Willenbrink) Manz Class of 2009, Ypsilanti, Michigan, married Steven Manz, Class of 2008, in September. She is the Regional Produce Specialist for the Kroger Company and Steve is the Assistant Track and Field Coach at Eastern Michigan University.

Megan (Jesulaitis) Adams, Class of 2009, Denison, Iowa, writes, “My husband, Rhett, Class of 2006 & 2008, and I were married in 2010 and moved to Iowa in 2014 due to a promotion he received. We welcomed our first child, Conner, in January and all three of us

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With our secure server, investing in Tiffin University has never been easier.

Just point and click, and your gift helps TU provide access and opportunity for individuals, and facilitates their preparation for successful careers and satisfying lives. We invite our friends and supporters to join us at www.tiffin.edu

Bill Cranston, Class of 2011, Cape Coral, Florida, is a football coach. “I took a struggling program in 2012 as a first year Varsity Head Football Coach in Nebraska to Bill Cranston State Playoffs,” Bill explained. He and his wife, Kathy, have two daughters, Anna and Cassidy, four sons, William III, Kevin, Damien, and Aurelius, and seven grandchildren.

Katie (Collier) Holmes, Class of 2011, Euclid, Ohio, works in marketing for Brandmuscle in Cleveland. Her husband, Raynard, is a teacher for Beachwood City Schools. Katie and Raynard welcomed their first daughter, Londyn, in April 2015.

Katie, Raynard and Londyn Holmes

Bethany and Steven Manz

Hiley Rainey, Class of 2010, Cleveland, Ohio, works as a mortgage underwriter. She chose TU for the quality education and feels that her greatest accomplishment is graduating from college.

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Colin Lowe, Class of 2011, Waldo, Ohio, was named Deputy of the Year by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

Colin began his career with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Colin Lowe 2012 as an Auxiliary Deputy Sheriff. He was an active member of the Auxiliary which led to the full-time position as Deputy Sheriff in 2012. He majored in Law Enforcement and Homeland Security/Terrorism.

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2000’s (continued)

Randy O’Keefe, MBA 2011, Easton, Illinois, was promoted to Plant Manager of the Havana Power Station. Previously, he held the position of Production Director at the Baldwin Energy Complex.

Krista (Sowers) Rice, MBA 2011, Chesapeake, Virginia, married Andrew Rice in April.

Andrew and Krista (Sowers) Rice

James Miller, Class of 2012, Bella Vista, Arkansas, works in security for Walmart Home Office. “I love law enforcement but unfortunately, an injury forced me to medically retire. I am now

James Miller

finishing my bachelor’s degree in political science to take my career in a new direction,” James said.

Brittany (Wilmoth) Moore, Class of 2012, Green Valley, Arizona, met her husband, Kyle, at Tiffin University. Brittany is an Investigative Assistant for the DEA and Kyle is a Border Patrol Agent in Nogales.

Lauren Turkington, Class of 2012, Sunrise, Florida, wrote, “I chose Tiffin University to continue my soccer career as a college athlete and because the classroom sizes were smaller which allowed better interaction with professors and my classmates that ultimately helped better my education. I felt that coming to a smaller university fit me better than anything. I like the career path I have chosen because there is so much opportunity to do many different things. I am lucky enough to have been accepted into a great company that will allow me to do this, as well as help with continuing my education.” Lauren is an Inventory Service Specialist for Southern Wine and Spirits.

Douglas Wolf, MBA 2012, Bexley, Ohio, is Manager of Community Engagement at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. In this role, Doug serves as the primary liaison between Nationwide Children’s neighborhood residents and community partners to implement services and cultivate partnerships to

improve population health as part of the Healthy Neighborhoods, Healthy Families neighborhood revitalization initiative. His wife, Jan, is a Stylist at Salon Therapy.

Christian Athey, Class of 2013, Avon Lake, Ohio, is Vice President of Commercial Banking of Lorain National Bank. “Tiffin University provided me the opportunity to grow Christian Athey my career in the banking industry and I have the ability to help business owners achieve their dreams,” Christian said.

David Paul Centner, MBA 2013, Wadsworth, Ohio, is the Captain of Operations for Medina County Sheriff’s Office.

He wrote, “I have almost 30 years of service as a law enforcement officer.

While there have been many ups and downs during this time, there is no greater calling than to serve

tu specialty license plate program If you are an Ohio resident, you can show pride in Tiffin University through the Collegiate License Plate Program sponsored by the State of Ohio. The cost to participate in the program (in addition to any normal renewal fees) is $35 annually. Of this $35 fee, $25 is directed to Tiffin University in the form of a charitable donation to the General Scholarship Fund in your name.

Due to a change in the Drivers Privacy Protection Act, Ohio Revised Code 4501.27, the release of personal information will not be provided without written consent by the individual. Therefore, you must provide proof of your participation in the collegiate license plate program in order for Tiffin University to recognize your contribution to the TU General Scholarship Fund.

If you have questions, contact TU’s Alumni Relations Office at 419-448-3382 or your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

SPRING / SUMMER 2015

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Douglas Wolf

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others. This is more than just a job – it is a profession that I have a passion for.

Now I am in a position to not only continue to serve, but to help others reach their dreams as well.” David chose Tiffin University because of the opportunity to attend graduate classes online with the same curriculum and instructors as traditional courses.

He continued, “Being accepted and graduating from the FBI National Academy Session #259 is my greatest accomplishment. Attending the National Academy was a career goal of mine and I am blessed with this achievement. It was the best experience of my career!”

David and his wife have five children and eight grandchildren. They enjoy spending as much time together as they can.

David Centner

Jessica Corns, Class of 2013, Jacksonville, Florida, knew she wanted to go to Tiffin University immediately after her campus visit. “The atmosphere and the Jessica Corns people made me feel so comfortable and at home,” she said. “My favorite memory would be from freshman year.

My roommate (Carissa Catalano) and I heard that signing up for classes, in person, was the best way to do it and that the freshman could begin signing up at 7 am. So the night before, a lot of

equality which is why I am in my career right now. It is absolute injustice that not every child in the United States has access to a quality education. I know that I am not the answer to the achievement gap; however, Teach For America is allowing me to be a part of an incredible movement that will soon guarantee a quality education for every child, regardless of their zip code.”

Olivia (Frantz) Dennis, Class of 2013, Helena, Ohio, works for Webster Industries, Inc. as a Corporate Controller. us from our dorm, SHOUT OUT TO THE MILLER HALL FAM, brought pillows and blankets and slept outside of Seitz Hall. It was so much fun. A ton of other freshmen camped out and I remember Resident Assistants bringing music and everyone started dancing. H20 brought us hot chocolate. It was the most fun I never want to have again!”

Jessica is a 6th grade English Teacher for Teach For America at Ribault Middle School in Jacksonville, Florida.

She is responsible for 130 6th graders. Teach For America is a non-profit organization that places teachers in low income schools. “My favorite part of my job is working with my kids every day.

They are incredible. Some days I feel as though they are teaching me more than I am teaching them.”

Jessica believes her greatest accomplishment would be moving somewhere new where she did not know a single soul. “I knew that I wanted to eventually end up back in Ohio where my family is; however, one of my dreams has been to live on the beach. I thought that moving to Florida and not knowing anyone would be the hardest thing, but it’s actually been an amazing experience.

There are so many incredible people in the world and the only way to meet them is to get out of your comfort zone.

I am so thankful for all of the wonderful people I have met so far in Jacksonville through Teach For America and my school,” she said.

When asked if she could make a difference in the world, Jessica said, “I am so passionate about educational 65

Andrew Derck, Class of 2013, Arcadia, Ohio, wrote, “I chose TU because it is an excellent school for business. I liked the idea of writing research papers rather than taking tests and was able to work full time and support my family while attending a meaningful university. I became a Farmers Agent/ Agency Owner 6 months after graduating. Now, I am my own boss and I am helping people understand their insurance.” Andrew’s wife, Jessica, is a homemaker. He went on to say, “I have a beautiful, supportive wife. My three boys are absolutely awesome as well.

We are very active making sure they do well in school and we encourage extra activities. We spend most of our time outside when the weather is nice.”

Andrew and Jessica Derck

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2000’s (continued)

Lisa (Momenee) Draves, Class of 2013, Curtice, Ohio, chose TU because of its reputation, recommendations from colleagues, and the online focus that fit into her personal life. In November 2014, Lisa was promoted from Director to Regional Director at Parallon Business Performance Group in Mason, Ohio.

Ashley Madison, Class of 2013, Vermilion, Ohio, works for the Cleveland Indians as a Group Sales Account Executive.

“I love working with fans of the Cleveland IndiAshley Madison ans and being able to provide an unforgettable experience at Progressive Field.” Ashley chose TU because she liked the small campus and people on the track and cross country teams.

Kasie Strausbaugh, MH 2013, Satellite Beach, Florida, is a Family Nutrition Program Assistant at the University of Florida. She writes, “My Kasie Strausbaugh educational experiences as an undergraduate student gave me the knowledge of the public relations field SPRING / SUMMER 2015

and the encouragement to commit myself to my passions. Working alongside the marketing director at The Ritz Theatre during my internship was an insightful experience that exposed me to the non-profit industry and gave me a taste of combining marketing and public relations. My current (and constant) goal is to find a career that ignites my passion in making people smile a little brighter, whether it be through higher education, travel and tourism, or nonprofit organizations.”

Nathan Curtis, Class of 2014, Ada, Ohio, writes, “I chose Tiffin University based on the challenging academics and the recognizable name throughout the commuNathan Curtis nity. My wife, Tabatha, is currently attending TU. Together, we have 5 boys – Connor and Colby, age 11, Carter, age 9, Cooper, age 5, and Kyle, age 4.”

Deanna (Meria) Maschari, Class of 2014, Port Clinton, Ohio, writes, “I chose TU because they had strong programs that I was interested in, such as forensic psychology and chemical dependency counseling licensure, and it’s a beautiful campus! I enjoyed the clubs and organizations, as well as the activities that TU had to offer. At TU, I was involved with H2O Collegiate Ministry, Cheerleading, L.O.V.E., and the Psychology Club. I will be attending graduate school this fall to obtain a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Union Institute & University in Cincinnati, Ohio.” Two of Deanna’s family members, Virginia and Charles Carr, are also TU graduates.

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Matthew David Baldwin, Class of 2015, Syracuse, New York, writes, “After searching many schools, I came in contact with Tiffin University. After speaking with TU on a few occasions, the admissions counselors felt extremely genuine in wanting to help me succeed.

My best memory was walking across the stage in the Heminger Center this past May and being acknowledged for my accomplishments in completing my degree requirements. My studies were taken online, which was very convenient for me, but after being on campus and sharing that memory with the other 2015 graduates, I must say, I believe being an on-campus student would have been quite the experience.”

Matthew Baldwin

Ashley Hosang, MBA 2015, Attica, Ohio, is an Operations Analyst for Marathon Petroleum Corporation.

Non-Discrimination Policy Tiffin University is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or Vietnamera veteran status in employment, educational programs, policies, athletics, activities, admissions, and other school administered programs.

All complaints of sexual harassment/ misconduct, domestic violence, dating violence, bullying, cyber-bullying, stalking, or discrimination should be reported to Dr. Perry-Fantini, Assistant Vice President for Diversity & Equity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, perrynauses@tiffin.edu or 419-448-3504.

In Memoriam

we remember 1930’s

Howard Behrman, Class of 1936, Northville, Ohio, passed away in October. At Tiffin University, he majored in acHoward Behrman counting and was captain of the basketball team. Howard proudly served on a troop transport ship in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. He worked in sales and later managed large national accounts for a building materials company. He had an avid interest in sports and was a lifelong fan of the Cleveland Indians.

editor’s note: If you are aware of the passing of Tiffin University alum, please email lwilliam@tiffin.edu

1940’s

Audrey Hutchinson, Class of 1940, Clyde, Ohio, passed away in January.

Audrey donated to Tiffin University’s Annual Fund from 1983 to 2007 and was a member of the Dragon’s Club for five years (2003-2005).

Jack Kemp, Class of 1949, Tiffin and Oak Harbor, Ohio, passed away in January. He joined the U.S. Navy at age 17 and returned to graduate from Oak Jack Kemp Harbor High School and TU where he majored in accounting. He moved to Tiffin in 1968 and worked for National Machinery for 22 years.

1970’s

Suellen Gray, Class of 1971, Mount Vernon, Ohio, passed away in December. She was employed as a secretary for the Knox County Educational Service Center.

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David (Des) Desbin, Class of 1974, Old Town, Florida, passed away in December. He was in the U.S. Army in the 101st Airborne from 19691971, serving David Desbin in Germany and Vietnam. He earned a National Defense Ribbon, Army Accommodation Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the Bronze Star. He was past post commander of American Legion Post No. 383 in Old Town, Florida and was a member of the AMVETS and a lifetime member of VFW and the American Legion.

Trustee Richard “Dick” Barth, Tiffin, Ohio, passed away in March. Dick was a World War II veteran serving in the Army Air Corps. He Richard Barth worked in bank management and later retired from insurance management. Dick also served as a Trustee of Tiffin University.

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/ SUMMER FALL / WINTER SPRING 20142015

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WINTER WRAP UP men’s basketball

wrestling

The Tiffin University men’s basketball team struggled through an injury plagued season, finishing 8-21 overall and 4-18 in GLIAC play.

Senior Mike Brown and Junior Khaleal McCormick garnered All-GLIAC Academic Excellence awards, and Korab Imami, Mohamed Rage, and Jonathan Sutherlin earned All-Academic honors.

The Tiffin University wrestling team continued to take their young program to new heights, finishing 9th out of 48 teams at the NCAA Championships. Tiffin picked up eight dual victories this season, including wins over Ashland University and Findlay, firsts in program history. The victory over Findlay secured Tiffin a 2nd place finish in the GLIAC, their highest finish in program history. The Dragon grapplers moved up the national rankings, peaking at 12th in the nation.

Before moving on to regional matches, six Dragons garnered All-GLIAC honors. Garrett Gray was the lone 1st teamer out of the bunch, while Giuseppe Penzone, Mike Screptock, Jett Hurt, Jared Chambers, and Jake Cramer were all 2nd team selections.

Tiffin sent nine wrestlers to the Midwest Super Regional, and after day one moved seven to day two. Garrett Gray made history at the regional championships, as he dominated the competition on his way to the title, the first in Tiffin History.

Four other Dragons took top 5 finishes. Mike Screptock took 2nd place and Jake Cramer battled his way to a 2nd place finish as well. Sam Viengmany took 3rd in the region, and Chase Boyd finished 5th.

Four Dragons traveled to St. Louis for the Wrestling National Championships on March 13-14. Tiffin fought hard throughout their matches, and placed three wrestlers in the 4th spot.

Senior Ashton Khan averaged 12.9 points per game, 3.6 rebounds, and dished out 3.7 assists per contest for the Dragons.

women’s basketball

The Tiffin University women’s basketball finished 7-21 overall and 6-16 in the GLIAC. The high point of the season was an 80-66 victory over the Michigan Tech Huskies, the #20 team in the nation.

Dragons return everybody for next season, and will have only three seniors.

Kaylee Patton chipped in with 12.3 points per game this past season, and shot 36% from three.

Garrett Gray was as dominant as any wrestler in the country, finishing 4th at the NCAA Championships after compiling an overall record of 35-2 with 21 pins.

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swimming and diving

indoor track and field

The Tiffin University men’s indoor track and field team got off to a hot start as they took the top spot at the Otterbein Invitational. Lamar Hargrove cruised to a victory in the 60 meter dash, Omar Lane took the 200 meter win, while Theo Mancheron was tops on the pole vault.

At the GLIAC indoor championships, the Dragons finished second. Lamar Hargrove won his second 60 meter and 200 meter GLIAC titles as his sixty time shattered the conference record. Lamar then teamed with Michael King, Joel Johnson, and Reginald Mortel to smoke the competition in the 4x400, as their time was the fastest in the nation. Not to be outdone, Theo Mancheron won the pole vault competition and the heptathlon with a new conference record.

Head Coach Jeremy Croy was named GLIAC Coach of the Year, Theo Mancheron was Field Athlete of the Meet, and Lamar Hargrove was named Running Athlete of the Year, Running Athlete of the Meet, and High Point Athlete of the Meet.

The Tiffin University women’s indoor track and field team won the Otterbein Invitational. Brittany Darby won the 60 and 200-meter races, and Chyna Davis glided to victory in the 60-meter hurdles and also jumped to a victory in the triple jump.

At the GLAC Championships the Lamar Hargrove Dragons finished 4th. Brittany Davis was the GLIAC Champion in the 200 and Darby finished 2nd in the 60. Chyna Davis placed third in the triple jump. Keianna Ingram snagged a third place finish in the high jump.

The Tiffin University Swimming and Diving teams continued their growth finishing with a winning record of 7-5.

The season also saw another first for the Dragons as both the men and women were ranked nationally. One of the biggest events in which the team participated was the Calvin College Invitational where the Dragons set 19 new school records.

At the GLIAC ChampionMorgan Dunleavy earned Allships, the women’s team American status this past year, finished 7th and the men finishing 10th at the NCAA Championships in the 1-meter dive. finished 4th. Petko Toroomanov was named 3rd team All-GLIAC with his 3rd place finishes in the 100 and 200-breast stroke. At the GLIAC Championship, TU set 17 new school records.

Morgan Dunleavy qualified for the NCAA Championships in the 1-meter dive as a freshman. At the championships, Dunleavy finished 10th and was named to the Honorable Mention All-American team.

marathon scholar athletes

Marathon Petroleum Company LP (MPC) and Tiffin University (TU) joined forces in 2014 to recognize 16 TU student athletes who have performed exceptionally in the classroom as well as in their respective sport during a special half-time presentation by MPC during a TU home basketball game in January and recognition at a luncheon held at MPC’s headquarters in Findlay, Ohio, in April.

At the April luncheon, Marathon employee and TU Alum Denice Myers spoke about the importance of being part of a team and how that translates into the “real world.”

SPRING / SUMMER 2015

2014-2015 Marathon Student Athlete of the Month Award Recipients

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mishler named head women’s basketball coach

moran named head swimming & diving coach

Jason Mishler was named Head Women’s Basketball Coach replacing departing coach Pam Oswald. Mishler spent the last four seasons as Head Coach at Malone University, where his team had a 21-10 record in the 2013-2014 season - the highest win total for the Pioneers Jason Mishler since 2001-02.

Mishler helped rebuild a Malone program that had compiled a 12-48 record in the two seasons prior to his arrival.

A 2005 Malone graduate, Mishler was a three-year starter at point guard for the Pioneers. After graduating from Malone, Mishler coached for two seasons at Hiland High School. He then worked two seasons for Tiffin University as an assistant coach for the women’s basketball program before returning to Hiland High School for two more seasons.

Noah Moran has been named Head Swimming and Diving Coach. He joins TU after a year with the Turkish Swimming Federation, where he designed training programs for the Ankara High Performance Group and traveled with the Turkish National Team. He was an Noah Moran assistant coach at Colgate for the 20132014 season, and an assistant coach at Eastern Michigan University for seven years. He completed his bachelor’s degree with a double major in political science and communications in 1997 at Eastern Michigan University.

He also has a J.D. from the University of Detroit-Mercy.

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SPRING REVIEWS baseball

Four Dragons earned AllGLIAC recognition. Kimmy Reynolds was selected to the All-GLIAC 2nd Team.

Reynolds ended the season with a 10-7 record, an ERA of 1.65, and hurled 10 complete games. Jena King garnered a 2nd team selection as well, finishing the season with a .351 batting average, 46 hits, 28 runs scored, and 19 RBIs. Payton Denman was honored with an All-GLIAC Honorable Mention award. Denman finished the year with a .272 Kimmy Reynolds was a force to average, collecting 34 hits, be reckoned with this past seascored 22 runs, and knocked son, going 10-7 with a in 17 runs. The final Dragon 1.65 earned run average, and hurled a perfect game against selected was Michelle Poe Malone on April 6th. as an Honorable Mention selection. Poe ended her campaign at a .263 clip, smacking 26 hits, 2 home runs, and collected 25 RBIs.

The Tiffin University baseball team ended the 2015 campaign at 19-31 overall and 12-20 in GLIAC play.

The Dragons played in many close ball games losing in three extra-inning games and six games by three runs or less.

Nick Hueneburg hit .379 with 75 hits, which was good enough for 2nd all-time in program history for hits in a season. Hueneburg had 20 extra base hits, including Nick Hueneburg finished with 14 doubles. Elijah Sanabria a .379 batting average this past finished with a .364 average season, and his 75 hits currently and knocked in 20 runs while ranks 2nd all-time in TU history for hits in a season. scoring 24 runs. Isaac Perry improved his average by 67 points, as he finished at .288 this season. All of Perry’s stats improved, as he collected 20 more hits, scored 12 more runs, smacked 9 more doubles, and knocked in 18 more runs.

On the mound, Logan Sendelbach had another excellent season, going 5-3 on the mound with all five wins being complete games. He finished with a 2.84 earned run average, and team high 50 strikeouts. The rest of the staff fell on hard times as the Dragons encountered injuries to their rotation halfway through the season and never recovered.

women’s lacrosse

The Tiffin University lacrosse team had another outstanding season under 3rd year coach Erica Brown. Tiffin finished 11-8 overall, and posted a 6-1 GLIAC record. The Dragons regular season schedule was filled with quality opponents. Once the Dragons got rolling, they had nine consecutive victories before falling to Grand Valley State.

The Dragons, just like the previous two years, were the number two-seeded team in the conference tournament and, again, lost to Grand Valley State in the finals.

Tiffin had seven players that received GLIAC honors. Jessica Bombard won her 3rd consecutive GLIAC Goalkeeper of the Year award, and earned a 1st team All-GLIAC selection. Joining Bombard on the 1st team were attacker Emily Roussel and midfielder Tori Nelson. Roussel finished the season with 69 goals, 13 assists, 82 total points, and 51 draw controls. Nelson netted 52 goals, dished out 13 assists, and snagged 99 draw controls.

softball

The Tiffin University softball team finished the season with a 2323 overall mark and a 14-12 GLIAC record. This season marked the 6th straight with 20 or more wins for Coach Nickerson.

In the regular season, Tiffin recorded sweeps over Ohio Valley College, Lake Superior State, Ohio Dominican, Malone, Ferris State, and Walsh University. One of the high points of the season came on April 6, against Malone University.

Freshman right-hander Kimmy Reynolds took to the mound and tossed 7 innings and didn’t allow a single base runner to reach, while striking out 11.

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Gina Abulone and Randi Castner were both selected as All-GLIAC 2nd team members. Abulone led the Dragons with 47 assists on the season, and also scored 20 goals. Castner grabbed 30 ground balls, grabbed 13 draw controls, and caused 23 turnovers.

Alexis MacMillan and Megan Belch each garnered All-GLIAC Honorable Mention accolades. MacMillan totaled 48 points on the season, with 33 goals and 15 assists. Belch picked up 26 ground balls, collected 6 draw controls, and caused 12 turnovers.

Jessica Bombard was the wall between the pipes for the Dragons for the past four seasons. Over her career, Jessica was a 3-time GLIAC Goalkeeper of the Year award winner, and is 2nd all-time in NCAA Division II history for saves with 934.

O’Bryan took claim to 4th place finishes. Seniors Jessica Paule and Megan Miller both rode their way to 5th place in both of their respect s, followed closely by junior Elizabeth Volk who finished 6th in a very competitive class. Lastly, the Novice Horsemanship division saw team point rider Taylor Deatrick with a 3rd place finish.

In the Intermediate II Horsemanship class, Dragons Alexis Wobser and Anna Morehead walked away with top placing, and a berth to compete at Region 6 Finals on March 14th.

Wobser took home the win and Morehead took 2nd. The Intermediate I Horsemanship class was no different as the Dragons kept up the consistency with freshman Amelia Bair taking home 2nd and Danielle Swanagan following in 5th.

The Advanced Horsemanship class saw junior captain Lauren Satterfield ride her way to a 3rd place finish. Lastly, the Open division saw junior captain Emilie Seyfang took home 3rd in the Horsemanship portion and 5th in the Reining portion.

men’s tennis

The Tiffin University men’s tennis team finished 5-4 in conference play and moved to tournament play, winning 3 of their final 4 matches.

Senior Nicholas Almeida garnered All-GLIAC selection for Tiffin. In his career at Tiffin, Almeida had 36 singles victories.

The Tiffin University equestrian team continued to thrive, as they racked up 15 top 5 finishes, including a 3rd at Findlay.

women’s golf Nicholas Almeida earned an AllGLIAC selection this season, and was second on the team with 10 singles victories.

equestrian

The Tiffin University equestrian team continued to impress this season with two 2nd place finishes in January, and two in February. The Dragons competed in 17 events, placing inside the top 5 in 15 of those events.

In the Novice Horsemanship division, many Dragons rode their way to top placing including another 2nd place finish for both freshmen Chandlier Diven and sophomore Taylor McCluskey. Both sophomore Kayla Hughes and senior Collin

The Tiffin University women’s golf team, under 1st year coach Brittany Davidson, made vast improvements from a year ago and will continue to do so with a roster that features five freshmen, two sophomores, and one junior. The Dragons first tee box of the spring season was TPC Myrtle Beach where they finished 3rd.

Staci Ludwig led the Dragons at the GLIAC Championships, finishing 7th overall with a 233..

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men’s golf

The Tiffin University men’s track and field team won the Oberlin Invitational.

The top finishes just kept on coming for the men, as they galloped their way to 2nd at the Cumberland Invitational. While half the team was at the Cumberland Invite, the other members of the team were participating at the Tennessee Relays, which featured athletes from all NCAA divisions. Lamar Hargrove took center stage at the event, as he was garLamar Hargrove blew by the nered the Athlete of the Meet competition again this season, award. winning the indoor track and field Again the Dragons NCAA Championship in the 60 and 200 in consecutive seasons. participated in split squad Lamar was also named Midwest action, as the Dragons parRegion Track Athlete of the Year. ticipated in both the Georgia Tech Invitational and the Ohio Northern Invitational. Stephon Goodwin, Reginald Thomas, Michael King, and Lamar Hargrove teamed up to finish 2nd in the 4x100 meter relay. At Ohio Northern, TU took 3rd out of 12 teams. At that meet, Theo Mancheron took the top spot in the pole vault.

At the GLIAC Championships, the men finished 4th out of 16 teams. Tiffin had many standouts at the event. Joel Johnson took the top spot in the 400 meter dash and the 4x100 team of Cortez Goodwin, David Hatchett, Travis Steinback, and Michael King finished 1st. Theo Mancheron set a new GLIAC record with his decathlon performance and Lamar Hargrove was busy re-writing the record book with a 100 meter time of 10.33, and a 200 meter time of 21.15.

Lamar Hargrove was named Running Athlete of the Year, Running Athlete of the Meet, and High Point Athlete of the Meet, and was a 1st team All-GLIAC selection. Theo Mancheron also earned a 1st team selection for his performance in the decathlon. Marquise Corbett was a 2nd team selection in the long jump and Mancheron picked up a 2nd team selection in the pole vault. Dragan Pesic was a 3rd team selection in the decathlon.

The Tiffin University men’s golf team took off right where they left off in the fall season. In February, the Dragons won the Jack Brown Invitational, and Brett Green was the medalist, shooting a 214 overall. Their stellar play continued into the month of March, as Tiffin picked up two more top 5 finishes.

In April, the Dragons took 2nd place at the Great Lakes Regional II out of 27 teams.

Tiffin missed the top spot by Brett Green was named to the a single stroke, as Indianapo- All-GLIAC 1st team this past year, lis clipped Tiffin 580-581. TU helping his team to the GLIAC next finished 6th at the Great Championship with a final round 69.

Lakes Regional III. The final invitational of April was the GLIAC South Invite where the Dragons finished 2nd.

Coach Darby Roggow was named Coach of the Year and Brett Green earned a 1st team All-GLIAC selection. John Tidenberg and Tyler Maranville both garnered 2nd team AllGLIAC awards, and Tyler Schepens was an Honorable Mention selection.

outdoor track and field

The Lady Dragons took 3rd at the GLIAC Championships, trailing only Grand Valley State and Hillsdale.

Sarah Clow won the shot put, Chyna Davis took the top spot in the triple jump, and the collective talents of Morgan Horn, Adaysha Parker, Theresa Scott, and Brittany Darby were more than enough to bring home the championship in the 4x100.

All of those performances Brittany Darby was the GLIAC earned these 1st team AllChampion in the 200 with a time GLIAC honors. of 24.56. Darby narrowly missed Brittany Darby also another championship, taking 2nd in the 60, trailing by a mere earned two 2nd team selec.02 seconds. tions with her runner-up performances in the 100 and 200 meter dash. Chyna Davis collected a 3rd team selection with a 3rd place finish in the 100 meter hurdles, while Ashley Linton took 3rd in the 800 meters.

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Gift Annuity

earn income and help tu students As a nation of generous people and friends of Tiffin University, we all understand the importance of charitable endeavors in our society. As a result, many people support our goals and our academic programs. However, our natural instincts also tell us that we must first be concerned with our personal and family security before we consider being of financial assistance to Tiffin University.

The Charitable Gift Annuity makes it possible for you to satisfy this dual objective of personal and family security and financial support of Tiffin University. Our Charitable Gift Annuity allows you to make an immediate gift to us without loss of income. In many instances, the gift annuity can actually increase your spendable income.

In exchange for your gift of money, real property or securities, Tiffin University will pay you a certain specified annuity for life. The annual amount of annuity is fixed at the time of the gift, usually more than typical dividends or interest and remains stable throughout your life. It will not fluctuate with the economy, so you will know exactly how much income you will receive. What’s more, you have no investment worries because the annuity payments are guaranteed until your death.

Many TU alumni and friends are using this attractive program because it allows you to make a significant gift to the University and still get the equivalent of the income from the money as long as you or your spouse survive. The Charitable Gift Annuity at Tiffin University is highly flexible and very personalized to your needs.

Please call Ron Schumacher, Vice President for Development and Public Affairs at 419.448.3584 or email SchumacherRM@tiffin.edu.

Tiffin University Charitable Gift Annuity can: n Increase your spendable income n Provide joint and survivor annuities and deferred gift annuities n Ease capital gain taxes 75

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