Tiffin University - Challenge Magazine - Spring/Summer 2017 by Tiffin University

TIFFIN UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE Spring / Summer 2017

our 6th PRESIDENT, DR. LILLIAN SCHUMACHER

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

from the

editor

Dear Alumni & Friends of Tiffin University, Welcome to Challenge Magazine! In this issue, Tiffin University welcomes Dr. Lillian Abraham Schumacher as our 6th president. In the pages ahead, you will find many of Dr. Schumacher’s new accomplishments already in place and a glimpse of our future as she leads each of us toward TU’s newest path forward—always mindful of our motto, “Without Risk there is No Gain.” ClassScene News is packed in this issue as many of you are now utilizing our electronic form, “Tell Us About Yourself,” as your preferred method of keeping in touch. Please continue to keep all of us up to date by visiting: tiffin.edu/ advancement/tellus (and remember, you also have the option of uploading a favorite photo). Lisa W. Williams • Editor / Photographer Executive Director of University Relations Mary Ann Stearns • Creative Director / Graphic Designer Kaitlyn Boehler • Graduate Assistant Vickie Wilkins • Director of Alumni Relations Shane O’Donnell • Sports Information Director Elaine Warnecke • ClassScene News Send news to TU website: tiffin.edu/tellus Mail: Lisa Williams, 155 Miami Street, Tiffin, Ohio 44883 Email: lwilliam@tiffin.edu (please attach a photo) Change of address: notify the Office of Alumni Relations at

419.448.3595 or email wilkinsvm@tiffin.edu

commencement 2017

keep in touch @ TiffinU

inside this

issue Spring / Summer 2017 4 7 9 16

Dr. Lillian Abraham Schumacher Inaugurated Guiding Principles Students Get Competitive Advantage by Appreciating Cultural Uniqueness Tiffin University’s 129th Commencement Celebration

20 CampusScene 30 40 43 46 57 59 3

AlumniScene Ronette “Roni” Burkes Visits TU Alumni Profiles ClassScene In Memoriam SportsScene

Joins Elite Group of Women On June 8, 2016, Tiffin University’s Board of Trustees announced Dr. Lillian Schumacher as TU’s 6th and first woman president in its 128-year history.

Inauguration of Dr. Lillian Abraham Schumacher

She joined an elite group of women across the nation who have stepped into top leadership roles in higher education. Dedicated to the industry of higher education, Schumacher believes deeply in student success and inspiring futures through education.

Tiffin University and the City of Tiffin have been part of my family for almost 25 years. “TU is a great institution in a fine city and I am thrilled to continue its tradition of success. We have exceptional faculty and staff who believe in student success, a supportive and engaged Board of Trustees, and an exceptional diverse student body who expect the best from us. With these strengths, we can achieve great things,” Schumacher said.

Dr. Lillian Abraham Schumacher Inaugurated as TU’s Sixth President Dr. Lillian Abraham Schumacher was inaugurated as Tiffin University’s sixth president Friday morning, November 11. She and her family have been affiliated with TU for nearly 25 years. A graduate of Allegheny College with two masters’ and a doctorate degree from Bowling Green State University, Schumacher said, “I am honored and humbled to stand before you today. I couldn’t be happier and will remember this day forever.” College and university presidents and representatives from schools around Ohio, including Terra State Community College and Heidelberg University, attended the ceremony. Also in attendance were C. Todd Jones, president and general counsel of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, and Tiffin Mayor Aaron Montz. Two past presidents – George Kidd Jr., who served TU from 1981 to 2002 – and Paul Marion, who served from 2002 to 2015, and his wife, Susan, were also in attendance. Both former presidents offered remarks. “I have known President Schumacher for 24 years,” Kidd said. “When I first met her, it was clear, as it is clear to anyone who meets her, that she is bright, articulate, driven and ambitious. It was easy to see she would succeed both academically and as a leader. Over these 24 years, I have become more impressed. Because of her upbringing, she brings a far greater sense of the world than all of us who preceded her.” “Many decisions were made during my 13 years as President of TU,” said Paul Marion, “and one of the best was the hiring of Dr. Ron Schumacher as a vice president and Dr. Lillian Schumacher as dean of the School of Business. Another great decision was the promotion of Lil from dean to vice president of academic affairs. They both did an excellent job as part of our leadership team and as valued members of the greater (continued p6)

4 | Inauguration

Inauguration | 5

Tiffin community. I supported the appointment of Dr. Lil Schumacher as TU’s President and was very pleased when the Board of Trustees made that decision. She has the energy, temperament, intelligence, personality and leadership qualities to be a great president. My wife, Susan, and I will continue our support for TU, and we look forward to learning of all the wonderful achievements of this great University in the months and years ahead.” Mayor Montz said, “You have a good one here. Dr. Schumacher has been a friend of mine for years, and I am excited to work alongside her to better this community. She is a big-picture thinker.” Members of Schumacher’s family, including her parents, who traveled from Arizona, attended the inauguration. Her father, Dr. Midhat D. Abraham, offered the invocation.

truly a leader.” She challenged the audience to inspire others. “Students want more flexibility,” she said. “They demand more engagement and opportunities to learn in different ways.”

According to Schumacher, Tiffin University will focus on the University’s Guiding Principles as TU moves into the future, and a five-year strategic plan was executed this spring. “A strategic plan is important, but culture is much more important,” she said. The strategic priorities include creating an environment focused on student success, growing innovative academic programs, optimizing Tiffin University’s organizational capacity, strengthening and increasing institutional financial sustainability, and strengthening Tiffin University’s critical infrastructure. In addition, Tiffin University has begun a multi-year initiative spearheaded by Schumacher to enhance its approach to celebrating cultural uniqueness. “You have to have a plan with a cultural competence foundation,” she said. “Without a solid and clear foundation, a plan will never work. We will become an institution known for valuing ourselves and others, and we will do our best to develop our students to become globally ready to be successful in our world today.”

The Schumachers: Allison, Ron, Lil and Elizabeth

Ron Schumacher, her husband of 28 years, said he has watched his wife live and accomplish her goals for 31 years and told the faculty and staff to have belief in their president. “She is a true mentor and an amazing wife,” he said. The Schumacher’s have two daughters who have known Tiffin University for their entire lives: Allison graduated this spring from Ohio Wesleyan University with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education, and Elizabeth will be a sophomore at Allegheny College studying pre-medicine. The Schumacher family’s connection to Tiffin University started in 1991 when former Tiffin University football coach Bob Wolfe asked Ron to coach at TU. President Schumacher said she had watched the school grow while still holding onto its family-like traditions. She said she wanted people to hold onto the family environment, but also wanted them to grow and think from new perspectives. “Tiffin University creates ‘Dragons for Life’, this will always remain,” she said. Her inaugural address focused on three words – purposeful, proactive and intentional and acknowledged there are challenging times in higher education today. The challenges include affordability, scrutiny, student diversity, student expectations and diversification of program delivery methods. In her address, she quoted John Quincy Adams: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are

6 | Inauguration

She also acknowledged that a plan such as this does not happen overnight. “We have to have patience, tenacity and endurance to stick to our plan; because all good things, all things that makes a true difference in one’s life, take a lot of effort and dedication.” Dr. James Kennedy, former president and chief executive officer of Ohio Mutual Insurance Group, and Mansour Javidan, Garvin Distinguished Professor and director of Najafi Global Mindset Institute at Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, spoke of their relationships with Schumacher. Kennedy described Schumacher as a strong, confident and take-charge leader, yet a tender and supportive wife to Ron and mother to Allison and Elizabeth. “She is as solid as they come,” he said. Kennedy said Schumacher is a woman of great strength while remaining ever humble. “We are ever so fortunate to have her at the helm,” he said.

Guiding Principles PURPOSE

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

What we are about: Transforming lives through education.

Where we will focus: • Create an environment focused on student success. (Students) • Grow innovative academic programs. (Academics) • Optimize our organizational capacity. (People) • Strengthen and increase institutional financial sustainability. (Finances) • Enhance our critical infrastructure. (Facilities and Technology)

MISSION What we do: Educate students by linking knowledge to professional practice.

VISION What we want to be: A premier university for challenging students to enhance their global competencies and 21st century skills, for success in a diverse world.

values How we behave – ICARE Interdependence

Communication

Accountability

Respect

Entrepreneurship

We are an inclusive and caring community that emphasizes service as a foundation of success.

We engage in authentic dialogue, timely exchanges of information, and fact-driven discussion, civil debate, and decision-making.

We make ethical, responsible decisions that have a high degree of integrity, are data-informed, and are resultsoriented.

As a portal of equal access to education and information, we model civility and compassion; we embrace diversity as an essential component of creating a rich university experience for everyone.

We prize innovation and creative thinking as hallmarks of successful participation in the global marketplace.

Javidan described her as thoughtful, creative, curious and driven. “Her love for her students is a deep and genuine love,” he said. “She has passion for her students. Having passion is believing what you are doing and saying, and Lil’s passion is contagious.”

GUIDING PRINCIPLES | 7

Students Get Competitive Advantage by Appreciating

Cultural Uniqueness 1 Performing Arts Lab 2 TU Website 3 Wall Street Pub 4 Dragon Shoppe

Bookstore

5 The Marion Center

Accomplishments under the guidance of President Schumacher • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Finalized the Wall Street Pub and Grille, the Marion Center and the Dragon Shoppe (TU Bookstore) openings Developed and endorsed Tiffin University’s Guiding Principles Created Pathways Forward: Tiffin University’s Strategic Plan 2017-2022 Launched a national search and hired TU’s first Provost Promoted an internal employee to vice president for business and finance Reorganized TU’s student affairs department to report to the executive vice president for enrollment management and student affairs Streamlined the department for institutional planning and effectiveness, for strategic plan oversight and execution, accreditation and authorizations, institutional research and career services Centralized marketing and communications as a new division, under the executive vice president for enrollment management and student affairs Secured donor Frank Murphy to give $4 million, the largest cash gift from a living person, as a match to an additional $3.3 million, fortifying the completion of the Performing Arts Laboratory (PAL) Approved the development of an esports athletic program including the largest, state-of-the-art collegiate arena Piloted and implemented TU Celebrating Cultural Uniqueness Initiative Launched Tiffin University’s new website Directed the enhancement of the Hertzer Technology Building’s cyber lab Awarded the 2016 Women’s Career Excellence Award from Seneca County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Center Invited to serve on host committee for U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown’s 2017 Annual Ohio President’s Conference in Washington, D.C. Solidified TU’s transition of athletic conferences from GLIAC to GMAC in 2018-2019 8

orking outside her culture of origin is something Tiffin University President Lillian Schumacher learned at a young age. And, it has been an advantage throughout her life and professional career. She wants graduates of Tiffin University to share that same benefit to enhance both personal relationships and professional experiences in an emerging global marketplace. Born south of Pittsburgh to Syrian immigrant parents, Schumacher learned early how to bridge an old-world culture at home with Midwestern Pennsylvania culture in the community. “I’ve always had that understanding of culture and how we were part of a melting pot,” she said. Or so she thought. Then, when she was 13 years old, her father relocated for a job with the U.S. State Department to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. “I thought my life was over,” Schumacher recalled. “I had to cover my hair and body. I couldn’t drive because I was a woman. I had to live by their rules, not by my rules.” Her cultural exposure broadened with three years spent at an American high school in Greece and at Cyprus. For college, she traveled between the United States and Saudi Arabia while earning a degree in economics at Allegheny College. At that point, her family relocated to Tucson, Az., and Schumacher went on to earn three advanced degrees from Bowling Green State University. Looking back, she sees advantages of spending a good part of the 1980s outside the United States. “It was uncomfortable, but that kind of discomfort leads to so much learning. There’s huge richness in being exposed to different beliefs, values and practices. It had a lot of influence on how I understand the world, myself and the bigger picture.” To Schumacher, that means dropping judgment of and developing more comfort with people who look and think differently. “I’m less likely to make assumptions and I am probably a better listener,” she said. “Being exposed to different cultures improves one’s ability to understand and appreciate the values of others. I believe that improves the ability to communicate and negotiate.” Cognizant of advantages from a global openness, Schumacher wants to bring that wealth to the extended Tiffin community. And so, in November, she launched a multi-year initiative known as “Celebrating Cultural Uniqueness.” She’s quick to point out this isn’t “diversity awareness” or an international studies program but a multi-year initiative that will build global and cultural appreciation into the DNA of the University. “Global” isn’t limited to ethnicity or race, she notes. It could be differences in gender, religion, region, financial situation, sexual orientation, physical ability or other elements that shape a person’s worldview. “We’re trying to build comfort with and appreciation for cultural differences into our curriculum, not just offer an experience,” explained Schumacher. “We (continued p10)

Cultural Uniqueness | 9

want to go deeper than a trip abroad or to the inner city. We want every student to experience this initiative in the classroom.” Shifting the cultural paradigm will give Tiffin University graduates an immediate competitive advantage in the global marketplace of work and relationships. “We already have a very diverse student body, and a diverse culture,” Schumacher pointed out. More than 40 percent of the student population identifies as culturally unique. “We have a great laboratory for learning from each other. I want to take something we already do well and make it better. I want to showcase it as a competitive advantage.” And that competitive advantage is powerful. It’s defined as:

Tiffin University graduates, regardless of their area of specialty, are innovative problem solvers who can leverage diversity of any type to work effectively with people who are different from them and produce innovative ideas. This isn’t just a “nice-to-do,” but recognition of real-world requirements. For example, Schumacher said, “Maybe you have an accounting degree and work in legal affairs. You interact with people from different parts of the world who think very differently from you. If we teach you to work with people who are different, the more productive you will be.” Among the early steps is redesigning general education courses. “We’re examining classes that all students must take and determining how to build in competencies that support the mission statement,” said Schumacher. “And, we’re looking to build in measurement so we know we’re accomplishing that goal.” She recognizes this as a process and projects that the 2018 freshman class will graduate with an enhanced set of cultural competencies. The faculty are driving change to the general education requirements. “They have to look at curriculum and pick it apart. In some classes, we’re already doing some of these exercises; and those classes will remain as they are. Other classes may change or be eliminated.” A cross-disciplinary steering committee of 18 has been creating a framework for change and has reached out to representatives of the entire Tiffin University community. Kristina Collins, assistant professor of management, conducted several focus groups to fill in initiative tactics. “We talked to every constituency that would be affected, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, major employers and local community leaders,” she said. “Students were full of ideas and among the most excited about the opportunities.” Among the first differences students might see in the classroom are discussions of world issues and their effect on society. Instructors will deliberately mix student groups for projects. “We tend to gravitate to people who are like us for teamwork,” said Collins. “We’re encouraging instructors to mix international and domestic students, inclusive of lower and upper class members. With diversity, we can learn more from each other.”

10 | Cultural Uniqueness

Various Cultures Celebrated on TU’s Campus for Years From an ongoing Food and Culture Series to the University’s International Dinner, as well as the opportunity to experience a variety of cultural events in the community, TU has for many years celebrated various cultures on campus. Student organizations on campus, which are responsible for some of the activities and events include: • Student African American Sisterhood (SAASE) • Chinese Student and Scholarly Friendship Association (SSFA) • SPECTRUM - Supports the bi-sexual, gay and lesbian community. • Black United Students (BUS) • Voicing our Insight Creating Empowerment (V.O.I.C.E.)

“I hope this will result in an increased comfort level and ability to meet people where they are,” she said. “Then, for example, if negotiating a business contract in another country, a graduate would have the behavior skill set to understand the cultural norms of their business counterpart; and negotiation would be more effectively secured.”

Student Scene

Change goes beyond academics to auxiliary programs as well. “We want to change our culture in formal and informal ways,” said Reginald Wilkinson, a member of the University’s Board of Trustees. “We’re identifying core competencies for students to be exposed to these efforts and examining how Celebrating Cultural Uniqueness is integrated into lesson plans and course curricula. We want this initiative to have legs of its own,” he said. “We want it to naturally evolve. We want to do this in a democratic way. We want input from faculty and staff and others.” Rahat Ahmed, director of corporate and foundation relations, moved from Bangladesh to the United States as an international student 32 years ago. She knows what it’s like to be an international student and move to a country with different norms and customs. “Cultural uniqueness doesn’t stop with the color of our skin,” she said. “It can be gender, orientation, rural/urban background.” She believes a shift in cultural mindset starts with some self-awareness of uniqueness, then respecting your own heritages and culture. “That leads to developing critical thinking skills which support students’ ability to be more innovative.” Sharon Perry-Fantini, Ph.D., assistant vice president for equity, access & opportunity/Title IX coordinator and associate professor of management, sees the new initiative building upon previous diversity efforts and transforming them into a global mindset. “It’s exciting to see that Tiffin is expanding on something that we’ve already been doing well instead of throwing it away and starting over,” she said. “Companies want to foster inclusive environments where people can work together,” she says. “That must be done to achieve organizational success and support the world we live in. Changing the workplace begins with education. At Tiffin, we’re providing a landscape so this can happen.”

Taking Life One Match at a Time Adel Musina Moscow, Russia rowing up, many kids get involved in sports and instantly fall in love. Most live a normal life, but for some, they eat, sleep and breathe their passion.

“To me, tennis is everything,” said Adel Musina, a tennis player at Tiffin University. Starting at the age of five, Musina was placed in lessons at a local tennis club in Moscow, Russia. Her training accelerated at the age of ten when she played in her first tournament. “My parents saw that tennis was something I loved, so they signed me up for individual lessons.” Musina’s parents pulled her from school and hired tutors to homeschool her so she could dedicate time to tennis. She attended practice daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and then completed homework in the evenings.

These organizations are valuable to our campus and students in helping to create a unique environment of student leaders who celebrate their own differences. Steering Committee Professor Brandon Clay, Dr. Sharon Perry-Fantini, Dr. Danielle Foster, Dr. Ana Paula Fantini, Ms. Amanda Hummel, Professor Nicholas Reinhard, Professor Jamie Marinis, Dr. Mansour Javidan, Dr. Vinnie Gajjala, Ms. Rahat Amed, Dr. Kristina Collins, Dr. Julia Porter, Dr. Reginald Wilkinson, Dr. Lillian Schumacher (Not Present: Dr. Peter Holbrook, Dr. Terry Sullivan, Dr. Joyce-Hall Yates, Dr. Kevin Cashen, Ms. Kathleen Lawry)

Cultural Uniqueness

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Later, Musina joined a national team and competed all over Europe and the United States starting at the age of 12. She had many accomplishments: at the age of 14 she was in the top 20 and almost got sponsors during a tournament in Germany; she was the top 16 under the age of 16; in the top 80 under the age (continued p12)

of 18; and won Russia’s master of the sport at the age of 17. “Tennis was the most important thing in my life,” Musina said. “It always came before school.” Musina made tennis a priority until she won master of the sport. It was time for her to focus on both school and tennis. “Back home, I had to choose tennis or education, but in America you can do both. Here, I can play my favorite sport while getting an education.” Musina attended the University of Florida then transferred to Tiffin University. She was intrigued by TU because of tennis as well as its academic reputation. She will graduate with her bachelor’s degree in marketing with a minor in management in 2018. Her dream job is becoming a professional tennis player or marketing specialist. For now, she looks forward to playing tennis, doing her best and being challenged on and off the court. “Tennis is more than a sport, it’s a lifestyle.”

Kaitlyn Boehler Tiffin, Ohio, USA rowing up in small town Tiffin, Ohio, I never thought I would find my passion, my magic,” said Kaitlyn Boehler, a graduate student at Tiffin University.

Timcheva spent her time studying and working hard. She was accepted into a prestigious high school, received her undergraduate degree, visited America through a work-and-travel program, fell in love with Tiffin University and decided to study in America. She just graduated from TU with her master’s degree in forensic psychology and hopes to become a substance abuse counselor.

“I thought I had to travel to a big city or attend college far away to have an experience of a lifetime and to be successful in my career.” Just after one semester, Boehler knew Butler wasn’t the place for her. Although she participated in numerous activities on campus and was doing well in class, she never felt welcomed or accepted. After reflecting on her time at Tiffin University when she took College Credit Plus courses, she applied and moved back home. “I returned to Tiffin University because of the small campus. Professors are very personal; they know your name and have a genuine conversation with you either before or after class,” she said. Boehler also chose to return because she’s a legacy. “Being a Dragon runs within my family’s blood.” Her mother, sister, cousin and two aunts also attended. “Whenever people ask me where I’m from and I respond with ‘Tiffin,’ they normally ask why I’m still here. I tell them my story and how amazing Tiffin and Tiffin University really is. You don’t need a big city or a school with broader name recognition to have a great opportunity and get a degree.”

magic

they live for me – they would do anything for me and support me.”

After attending Butler University in Indianapolis, Boehler realized all she needed was right in front of her, right in her hometown.

Boehler graduated with her bachelor’s degree in public relations in 2017. She is currently using her degree to assist the TU Office of Marketing and Communications as a graduate assistant and as a Seneca County Safe Communities Coordinator at the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board, where she interned. Boehler is also earning her MBA in marketing and recently opened a dance studio in Tiffin with her family. “Tiffin University has encouraged me to reach my goals and succeed at anything I put my mind to. If you don’t stay positive, try a new experience or look at things in a different way, you may never find your magic. Tiffin University is the magic that has allowed me to succeed.”

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Although he has fond memories of his culture, Egas is unsure of his future plans.

o Americans, we’re not the traditional family,” said Slavena Timcheva, an international graduate student at Tiffin University.

“T

Bulgaria’s low economy has affected families, forcing parents to leave their children in the care of grandparents. Bulgarian families devote resources and attention to their children’s well-being and education. “They always encouraged me to study and do something with my life so I wouldn’t have to go through the same thing they did. My parents always say that

His dream is to own a hotel that has tennis courts. Not only does he want to serve others, he also wants to teach his passion of tennis.

When the clock strikes midnight, Egas and his family open presents.

Slavena Timcheva Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria

“It’s common for families to travel to other countries, to leave their family in order to provide a better life for them,” said Timcheva. “There was a point in my life when I didn’t see my parents for two years straight. I think it was harder for my mom than it was for me; I was little and didn’t understand what was really happening. I’m happy for that experience because it made us closer and we talk a lot. My mom is my best friend.”

the people he would meet in his career whether it be through hotels, casinos, clubs or cruises. “I will always be able to meet people from all over the world,” he said.

Christmas celebrations continue with dancing. “People say Latins grow up dancing, and that’s a fact. Growing up, my family taught me how to dance. At family gatherings, we play salsa or merengue, and my family has always encouraged me to dance.”

Growing in a Different Direction, but Roots Remain

Growing up in Bulgaria, Timcheva had to mature quickly.

He also misses celebrating Christmas with his family. Gathering on December 24, Luis and his family celebrate with dinner, music and dancing. One of his favorite meals, hallaca, is only prepared in December. “It is a lot of work to prepare and involves the whole family.” Families wrap beef, pork, raisins and olives in cornmeal dough, then it is bound with banana leaves. Typically men clean the banana leaves and tie it together for steaming.

My Culture Is My Identity Luis Ludena Egas Maracay, Aragua, Venezuela

recent class of 2017 graduate, Luis Ludena Egas reflects on his home in Venezuela.

He misses celebrating holidays with his family. His favorite, Carnaval, takes place in February and is similar to Mardi Gras. Venezuelans take time to visit their families and enjoy the festivities together. Streets are filled with parades, music, dancing and water balloons. “It’s so much fun,” he said. “We put water in small balloons and throw them at people – we call them bombs. Everyone does it and we go out in the streets and enjoy the festivities.”

“After graduation, I had originally wanted to return to Venezuela, but it’s too damaged now.” He went on to explain the food shortage happening in his home country. The Venezuelan government has withheld importers with price controls and denies assistance from other countries. As a result of the shortages, Venezuelans search for food in empty supermarkets. “The situation right now is very critical and deeper than it seems. Everything is about corruption – that’s why I’m getting my degree in America.” Luckily, his family is safe and healthy during this crisis. Talking with his family daily, he is reassured they are doing well. Luis explained that his family gets everything they need from the black market. “You have to be flexible in these kinds of situations. It’s really sad, but that’s how it works.” For now, Egas plans to stay in America to earn his MBA in marketing or international business at Tiffin University. He chose TU originally because he was able to play tennis through a scholarship and study a degree he desired – hospitality and tourism management. He chose this degree because of the diversity of StudentScene

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Without Music, Life Would B-Flat Craig Thompson (CJ) Jr. Cincinnati, Ohio, USA usic is a piece of art that goes in the ears, straight to the heart. Undergraduate student Craig Thompson Jr. strengthens his passion for music at Tiffin University.

“My whole life has been music, so I wanted to learn more about it in school,” Thompson said. “It’s where my heart is.” Before college, Thompson taught himself how to write songs, produce and engineer music, and sing. He had a successful start in the industry. He acted in a commercial, performed on a television show, signed a production deal as a solo artist and performed in various productions and groups. These accomplishments drove (continued p14)

his passion further. Thompson wanted to add to his knowledge of performing. He desired to learn more about the music industry, production and engineering. Initially, Thompson aspired to play soccer at Tiffin University, and although he stays active playing on TU’s rugby team, he chose a different route. After researching Tiffin University’s Music Department, he was intrigued by TU’s scholarship for beat makers. “I felt confident in production and this was the only school that could offer me that opportunity.” So Thompson auditioned for the scholarship. He played beats and an impromptu performance of the song, “Happy Birthday.”

Thompson will graduate in 2018 with a degree in arts entrepreneurship with a concentration in music industry. He plans to keep working on Stillwell Blue with his sister. One day, he hopes that creating and performing music will become his main job. “I aspire to perform for the world and contribute to people’s minds, hearts and souls through music. I don’t care about money; the moment I can say I’m successful is when I am happy.”

Auditioning was one of the best things Thompson did. Since then, he has been very successful in his music career at Tiffin University. He produces, mixes and arranges audio for recording artists, plays the drums for N’awlins and sings in TU’s choir and acapella group, Up in the Air. Outside of school, he has performed with his sister as an opener for The ZAPP Band and at the Cincinnati Music Festival. He also performed solo with the band, The Deele, on main stage. “What I like most about my degree is the fact that it’s so modern and structured around what’s happening today in music.” Thompson’s degree gives him what he needs to be successful in the music business – guiding him through every aspect of the industry. “Before college, I could not read music or recognize any letter on the keyboard except C. TU’s program director taught me a whole new way of writing music and understanding the many ways of how to put my feelings and emotions into my songs.” Thompson shares his love for music with his sister, Cyara, who is also a student at Tiffin University studying arts entrepreneurship with a concentration in music industry. The siblings are a duo named Stillwell Blue. Their style is a combination of alternative, pop and soul – with some hip-hop elements. “I want to write and create beautiful, good, honest music with my sister.”

Curiosity Junxia Rong China

he saying “curiosity killed the cat” does not apply to graduate student Junxia Rong.

Investigation and experimentation led Rong to fulfilling her passion of international business. Curiosity was engrained in her since she was young. Her family lived next to an ice cream factory, where her father worked. She and her older sister would sneak over to the plant and explore. “We would dip our fingers in the cream and eat it,” she said. “When people came by, we would hide.”

14 | StudentScene

Dogra chose TU because it has a tradition of excellence since 1888 and it celebrates cultural uniqueness. This notion indicated a safe, calm and protective environment to continue her education.

The youngest in the family, Rong looked up to her elders. She followed in her sister’s footsteps and became a teacher in China. For several years, she taught English to various ages. However, something was missing. She decided that teaching was not what she wanted to do anymore and she changed her plan. Growing up in a “business family,” it only took time until it would rub off on Rong. Her mother inspired her to change career paths. “I admire that my mom started her own business. Her energetic, motivated personality is something I look up to.” She applied to school in the United States and attended community college in California. After learning the basics of business, Junxia connected with an alumnus from TU who informed her of its programs. She was drawn to TU’s small campus, class size and personal touch and attention so she enrolled in the graduate program. Rong will graduate with her master’s degree in international business in 2018. She plans to stay in the United States and work for an international trade business. She wants to work for a company that trades with China so she can reconnect with home. She is grateful for her education in America and trusting her gut to switch career paths. She enjoys learning about business and is excited to practice it. “I’m interested in how to start up a company and how to manage it.” Rong will keep moving forward, opening new doors and doing new things. Her curiosity will keep leading her down new paths and on to great things.

Believing that her spirituality and passions have guided her through life, Dogra said, “Life should be flowing and you should go with its flow.” This mindset allowed her to experience many things – getting a taste of different sides of life. She doesn’t have a clear path for her future, but she puts her faith in God. Although her future in unclear, she has no fears for what is to come. “If you have hope and faith as a sense of your life, you can rule the world.” Using this mindset, Dogra hopes to pursue her Ph.D. and become a chief human resource officer.

“My country has done a lot for me to have a good life and I want to give back,” said Rashed. After deciding to attend Tiffin University, Alyami researched majors. He noticed a trend that most Saudi Arabian students in America studied business. Alyami said he chose homeland security and terrorism and law enforcement because he wanted to do something different – something that would not only change his life, but also change the lives of those in Saudi Arabia. “When I go back home, I hope to join the military to protect my country and the world from ISIS and other terrorist groups. I want to share my knowledge in homeland security and my experience in America.”

Roohani Dogra Chandigarh, India

Alyami reflected on terrorism in his home country. He briefly explained an attack that occurred during the summer of 2016. Suicide bombers killed security forces outside of Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, one of the two holiest sites in Islam.

t’s common for people to be unsure of their future. Lots of times we wonder if we have a destiny or if we’re just floating through life. For graduate student Roohani Dogra, she believes floating through life is essential so that passions can be explored.

Millions of people were at risk because of their pilgrimage to the mosque during Ramadan. Authorities surmised that the attack was controlled by ISIS. Many Saudi Arabians consider church as a safe place, but now, Alyami and others worry about their safety.

Dogra invested her time and energy to school, enriching herself with knowledge. In 2012, she was compelled to take a new direction in life and dabbled in the fashion industry for two years.

“If there’s anything that I could change about the world, I’d want it to be peaceful,” he said. Rashed wants to pursue this goal when he returns home and joins the military. In his future, he plans to make a difference and change the world. “You have to listen, think about what’s going on, and take care of it.”

The Future Belongs to Those Who Believe

She did runways and photoshoots for numerous brands, such as Monte Carlo and GANT. One day she realized that there was something else she needed to pursue. “I followed my passion and fulfilled it, so it was time to move on. I felt that I should do something more.” Dogra returned to her education. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degree in psychology and is currently pursuing her second master’s degree in human resources at Tiffin University. “I thought I should take my life to another level, to have more skill and enrich my knowledge.” After intensive research,

The Mind is the Most Powerful Weapon Rashed Alyami Riyadh, Saudi Arabia ouble majoring in homeland security and terrorism as well as law enforcement means more than just getting an education to Tiffin University undergraduate student Rashed Alyami.

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renowned journalist

addresses TU graduates

Connie Schultz

and said she hopes the graduates know they always will be part of the Tiffin University family. “Today is your day,” she said.

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author encouraged Tiffin University graduates to become activists for kindness, get to know others and share their wisdom and knowledge.

Schultz, who was presented a Doctor of Humane Letters degree, delivered the commencement address before thousands of graduates, family and friends. She asked the graduates who were the first in their family to attend college to stand. She asked the same question of the faculty and audience.

“You are our greatest asset,” said Connie Schultz, a firstgeneration college student.

Schultz, who grew up in Ashtabula, Ohio, recalled loading the trunk of a Chevrolet Cavalier and driving to Kent State University in 1975. After her parents moved her into her residence hall room, she walked her parents back to the car. Her mother was unusually tearful, and her father told her, “Do not blow this.”

The few sprinkles that turned into a steady rain could not dampen the enthusiasm of the nearly 800 graduates during Tiffin University’s 129th commencement celebration on April 29. The class of 2017 included about 400 graduates receiving master’s degrees, 425 receiving bachelor’s degrees and seven receiving associate’s degrees.

Schultz, the first in her family to go to college, said her parents had talked about “when,” not “if,” she would go to college. She said that on that fall day in 1975, their hopes and dreams could be summed up in six words: “Our daughter is going to college.”

President Lillian Schumacher welcomed everyone to the commencement ceremony. She congratulated the class of 2017

Schultz obtained a degree in journalism in 1979 from Kent State, where she now teaches. She has served as a freelance writer and reporter and now is a nationally syndicated columnist for Creators Syndicate.

She was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in feature writing and won the Robert F. Kennedy Award for Social Justice Reporting for her series, “The Burden of Innocence,” which focused on the wrongful conviction of Michael Green, in 2003. Schultz won the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 2005. In announcing the award, the Pulitzer judges recognized her work as providing “a voice for the underdog and underprivileged.” Random House has published two of her books: Life Happens – And Other Unavoidable Truths, a collection of essays and … And His Lovely Wife, a Campaign Memoir about the Woman Beside the Man. The memoir followed husband Sherrod Brown’s successful 2006 campaign to be elected as the first Ohio Democrat in 14 years to the U.S. Senate. Schultz told Tiffin University graduates that as millennials, they care about the environment and climate change, know they’re not the negative stereotypes and outnumber baby boomers. “You care about the world,” she said. Schultz said President Donald Trump has called journalists disgusting, horrible people and the most dishonest people he ever has met. She said her Kent State students know that holding officials accountable is not a grudge match. “We are mandated by the First Amendment to do our job,” she said. Prior to commencement, Schultz said that, throughout her career, she has written about people who do not have a voice. Without a thriving press, the country cannot have a democracy, she said. “We are not the enemy of the people … good journalism is not an act of revenge,” she said. In her spare time, Schultz loves to read and cook for others, walks her dog, Franklin, often, and does cross-stitch. She created a piece for her husband with the Bible verse from Micah 6:8: “Do justice. Love kindness. Walk humbly with God.” “One has to know where his or her ethical bottom line is,” Schultz said. “You’ll always have people testing it,” she said.

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TRUSTEE NEWS

who’s new

CampusScene

Mitchell and Reineke Recognized as Trustee Emeriti In recognition of their exemplary service, David Mitchell and William Reineke Sr. were named trustee emeriti.

Holbrook Joins TU as First Provost Peter Holbrook, Ph.D., was named provost of Tiffin University in February. He joins TU with a solid foundation of academic and administrative success. He served as dean of the College of Business and Management, chief operating officer, vice president for enrollment management and faculty member at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, Wisc. He also served as president and chief executive officer of the Cream City Foundation, also in Milwaukee.

It’s an exciting and challenging time to be in higher education. I embrace the many complexities and opportunities it presents. “The mission of TU is very compelling and the vision to equip a diverse student body with global and 21st century skills is critical to preparing a workforce and leaders for tomorrow. Tiffin is dedicated to serving the professions and is very much aligned with my background and interests to create opportunity and access to students of diverse backgrounds. For me, it is all about creating learning environments that promote value, access and opportunity as a means to transforming our communities,” Holbrook said. 20

David Mitchell is a retired David Mitchell executive of Whirlpool Corporation, having served in multiple capacities beginning in 1972 and retiring as vice president of cooking products in 1998. William Reineke Sr. He is a 1965 TU alumnus and was elected to TU’s Board of Trustees in 1994. He served on the academic affairs, budget and finance, and development committees. He chaired the 2002-2004 capital campaign, A Campaign for Tiffin University. William Reineke Sr. joined the TU Board of Trustees in 1986. He currently serves as Chairman of Reineke Family Dealerships with locations in Findlay, Fostoria, Lima, North Baltimore, Tiffin and Upper Sandusky. He previously served as president of Reineke Ford from 1967 until 1999. Both gentlemen served on the Board under the presidential leadership of Drs. George Kidd, Paul Marion and Lillian Schumacher.

TU Elects Newest Board Members James Kennedy, L.H.D, Diane Courtright McCloy and Ann Hunnicutt were elected to Tiffin University’s Board of Trustees in February. James Kennedy, L.H.D, is the retired president and CEO of the Ohio Mutual Insurance Group since 2003 and has guided the company James Kennedy through a period of tremendous growth. He was named “Entrepreneur of the Year” by Ernst & Young, the “Insurance Industry Person of the Year” by the Professional Insurance Agents Association of Ohio, and “20 People to Know in Insurance” by Columbus Business First. Kennedy is no stranger to TU as he previously served on the advisory committee of the School of Business and delivered the keynote address at the 2015 commencement. Diane Courtright McCloy, a resident of Dublin, Ohio, has been a radio and television spokesperson for 25 years. She is currently Diane Courtright the spokesperson McCloy for FrontRoom Furnishings and The Living Room Expert, focused on living and family room furnishings with locations in Columbus, Dublin and Springdale, Ohio. While attending The Ohio State University majoring in radio and television, she was selected as Miss Ohio in the Miss America pageant. (continued p22)

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Newest Board Members

SCHOOL NEWS

(continued)

Ann Hunnicutt, a resident of Newport News, Va., is president, CEO and owner of Westwood Contractors, CFO and corporate secretary for Pembroke Ann Hunnicutt Construction Co., Inc., and owner and vice president of Interlock™ Paving Systems, Inc. She received Hampton Roads “Inside Business” Top 20 Women in Business Achievement Awards and was awarded the Distinguished Citizen Award by the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce and the City of Hampton, respectively. The U.S. Small Business Administration named her “Small Business Advocate of the Year” and Peninsula Sales & Marketing named her “Outstanding Business Leader.” She was also presented with the “Four Star Award” by the Military Affairs Council of the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce.

Annual Business Summit to Success Tiffin University’s Business Club, hosted their 6th annual Summit to Success in March. After a morning full of breakout sessions with business professionals who spoke of career advice, the group welcomed students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as prospective students, to a luncheon and to hear the keynote speaker presentation. Michal Lorenc, a 13-year Google veteran, currently in charge of Google’s Ticketing and Live Events Group, talked to the audience about sports marketing in the digital age. He is responsible for fostering relationships with partners in sports, family entertainment, music and ticketing industries. Lorenc spoke in great detail about digital advertising, data collection and

traditional marketing instead of digital. He shared background on data analysis, discussed privacy laws and sequential logic. As a professor at Michigan State University, Lorenc said that he understood how hard the transition from college to a career can be. When asked how to stand out as an applicant at Google, he recommended an internship or job experience during the college years. “It will make you stand out above the 100 other applicants we get per open position. And always travel. We are always looking for global expansion.” Lorenc left the group with a few tidbits of career advice: 1) Follow your passion. 2) Don’t wait for perfect – go for it. 3) Be flexible and 4) Don’t just wish … start doing. After the event, TU’s School of Business hosted a career and internship fair that featured 19 organizations and businesses, looking for interns and full-time employees.

School of Criminal Justice & Social Sciences Tiffin University’s School of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences had an incredible representation at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) national research conference and Annual Meeting, “Advancing Justice on All Fronts,” last spring in Denver, Colo. Five faculty members and five students made the trip to present research projects on such varied topics as therapeutic jurisprudence, educational impact on perceptions of crime, drug offenders, sexual assault, rape, domestic violence, inmate behavior, and even terrorism. There were nine Tiffin University presentations for this annual conference of criminal justice scholars from around the world.

the International Model North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) competition held in Washington D.C. Institutions from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Belgium participated along with TU students representing NATO member nations. Students immersed themselves in the political and military policies of their assigned countries and addressed longer-term global issues as well as a surprise crisis situation created by the event’s leadership team. Tiffin’s team represented two NATO nations: Turkey and Estonia.

School of Arts & Sciences New Concentrations in the M.Ed. Program

Students Attend Model NATO Simulation in Nation’s Capital

Teaching English, teaching art and teaching communication have been added as concentrations within Tiffin University’s Master of Education program. Classes began in May.

Members of Tiffin University’s Global Affairs Organization (GAO) competed in

“We are responding to a major need for qualified teachers for College Credit Plus

Frank Promoted to VP for Finance and Administration

classes,” said Joyce Hall-Yates, J.D., dean of arts and sciences. “We’re helping high school teachers become credentialed so they can teach students enrolled in College Credit Plus classes.” The State of Ohio requires high schools to work with community colleges and universities to create College Credit Plus (CCP) classes. These classes are offered to high school students who are college ready. Unfortunately, many high school teachers do not have the required educational credentials needed to teach college-level classes. In order to teach college-level classes, teachers must take 18 credit hours of graduate work to teach a general education course, and have a master’s degree to teach a program course. TU’s additional concentrations to the Master of Education program will help high school teachers earn the required credits to teach English, communications or art at the college level. The program has a 12-credit-hour core of classes, and 18 credit hours of the discipline curriculum. If a teacher already has a Master of Education degree, but still needs to earn credits in the discipline curriculum, he/ she is able to earn a concentration in teaching English, teaching communication or teaching art by completing the 18 credit hours of discipline curriculum. “Tiffin University is focused on providing for the current needs of high schools, community colleges and universities as they seek to fulfill their obligations to high school students for College Credit Plus programs,” said Hall-Yates.

Donna Frank was named vice president of finance and administration in September. Previously, she had been an integral part of the Business Office at TU serving as senior financial analyst and financial coordinator where she performed financial analysis, long-range forecasting, budgeting, student accounts and refunds, and technology projects. In her new position as chief financial officer, she reports directly to the president and is a member of the senior leadership team.

TU esports Arena Goundbreaking

Cutting-Edge Esports Collegiate Program Launched Redefining what it means to be a student-athlete, Tiffin University has joined the world of digital athletics as video game competitions, also known as esports, which have taken off on college campuses across the country. The demand of interested current and incoming students was so great, TU had to move up the timeline for this program and broke ground in April on what will be a new stateof-the-art esports facility next to the Heminger Center on Miami Street. The facility will be 4,000 square feet, making it the largest collegiate esports arena in the nation. It will house 15 top-of-the-line computer systems with dual monitors and five console stations. Each computer system will also have dxRacer Gaming chairs and Razer keyboards, headsets and mice along with dedicated internet lines. 22 | CampusScene

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To be eligible to enroll, students must have a bachelor’s degree. The new Master of Education degree is designed for current teachers who would like to expand on their skills or begin a career with deeper knowledge.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Veteran’s Day Recognized TU celebrated the service and sacrifice of people in the U.S. Armed Forces on November 11. “Coming Home: The Odyssey of Veterans in the Community,” was presented by Edgardo PadinRivera, Ph.D., chief of psychological services and coordinator of mental health programs at the Cleveland VA Medical Center. An Army combat veteran with a tour in Vietnam in 1967, PadinRivera earned a doctorate in clinical psychology Edgardo Padin-Rivera, Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. He discussed how veterans often face psychological, vocational and social obstacles in their attempts to reintegrate into their communities (especially among those who go to war), and what it is like coming home as outsiders in a strange land.

Railroad Safety Initiative – 2017-2019 Tiffin University is part of a local community railroad safety initiative that will include the creation a quiet zone while increasing the safety of six city railroad crossings. According to Tiffin Mayor Aaron Montz, the city’s risk factor at crossings was deemed extremely high and city officials have been working for more than a year to improve the issue. The project, administered by the Ohio Rail Development Commission, will be completed in three phases and should be finished by late 2019 or early 2020.

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TU Performing Arts Laboratory Awarded Grant The Board of Trustees of the Tiffin Community Foundation awarded Tiffin University’s Performing Arts Laboratory a $25,000 grant f the White Family Charitable Fund to purchase a digital grand piano and a digital hybrid piano for the rehearsal studios of TU’s Performing Arts Laboratory.

Courtyard Dedicated Tiffin University dedicated its courtyard in honor of Dr. David L. Hayes. A resident of Toledo, Ohio, Dr. Hayes is a 1976 graduate of Tiffin University and has enjoyed a successful career as an entrepreneur. He has demonstrated quality service to Tiffin University through his position on the Board of Trustees from 2002 to 2014 and was named Trustee Emeritus in 2014. He received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from TU in 2002. In addition to his kind contribution toward the Hayes Courtyard and the Hayes Center for the Arts, an endowed scholarship was named in honor of David and his wife, Patty.

Locker Room Dedicated The Tiffin University Robert Petras Locker Room was dedicated last spring in honor of Robert “Bobby” Petras, TU class of 2003. His generous donation allowed a much-needed, high-caliber expansion and upgrade to the locker room at the Paradiso Athletic Complex. Petras is COO of Lamplight Communities, an association of five assisted living and skilled nursing homes in Indiana and Ohio. In 2010, Petras and a business partner formed Platinum Purchasing, a procurement management company that manages approximately $18 million in annual spending. Petras is actively involved in the communities he serves through memberships in various chambers of commerce and assisted living associations. He was the recipient of Tiffin University’s Young Alumni Achievement Award in 2013. Criteria of this prestigious award includes outstanding leadership in one’s profession and community, bringing honor to Tiffin University, and demonstrating the promise of further distinction.

a view from above the courtyard

It’s a great day to be a Dragon!

William Reineke Jr., Claire Johansen, President Schumacher, Bobby Petras, Gary Goff, Lonny Allen

june 2016

Marion Center Dedicated Tiffin University dedicated The Marion Center in honor of former TU President Paul Marion and his wife, Susan. The Center is located at the corner of Wall and Miami Streets in the building that once housed the Pettibone Manufacturing Company. The Marion Center provides an additional venue for musical performances, speakers, banquets, wedding receptions and a variety of activities for students, staff and faculty members and community organizations. “We are very grateful that the Board of Trustees chose The Marion Center as the name for this wonderful new facility,” said Dr. Paul Marion.

This will be an excellent venue for Tiffin University events and activities as well as for community groups and organizations. 26 | CampusScene

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Christmas at the Ritz

june 2016

TU Wall Street Pub & Grille One of Tiffin’s newest eateries, the Wall Street Pub & Grille, located at the southeast corner of Wall and Miami Streets, was once the Pettibone Manufacturing Company. The 4,195-square-foot restaurant offers a “fresh” menu that is a significant departure from a traditional sports establishment—frozen food will be used as little as possible. The menu includes food for kids, appetizers, salads, hamburgers and melt sandwiches, steak, pasta, and unique cast iron dishes such as mac & cheese and desserts … and more. The décor of the Grille is a contemporary, upscale atmosphere with acid-treated cement floors, a polished steel bar and exposed ceiling and glass mosaic tile. It will seat up to 140 people with an additional 30 to 40 seats outside on the patio, weather permitting. The building also houses Tiffin University’s newest addition, The Marion Center, and the University’s Bookstore which was previously located in the Gillmor Student Center.

Holi Festival of Colors Holi, a Festival of Colors, was celebrated in April. By definition, Holi is an ancient Indian celebration that marks the end of the winter gloom and rejoices in the bloom of the new spring season. Color throwing is part of a Hindu tradition of throwing worries to the wind and embracing the new season through spiritual and social harmony. 28 | CampusScene

International Dinner 2017 “Love Makes the World Go Around” was the theme of Tiffin University’s 26th International Dinner held in March. TU celebrates nearly 400 international students who represent 28 countries. The International Dinner is a popular tradition at the University. It provides a unique opportunity for International and American students to share their heritage with the campus and the Tiffin community through food, arts and entertainment. The Tiffin University Music Department presented its 10th annual “Christmas at The Ritz” in December. The concert featured holiday selections in a variety of styles. Large performance ensembles included the University Choir, Concert Band, TU Gospel Choir, Pop Choir, Big Band and Dance Team, and were joined by chamber groups and other small ensembles performing in popular styles including jazz, rock, funk, R&B, hip hop, as well as original music. The concert, proceeds of which benefitted charity, also included the 75-voice TU Kids Choir.

25th International Flag Ceremony TU celebrates 28 countries and welcomed five new countries in November: Czech Republic, Guatemala, Italy, Kenya and Yemen.

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a year in review AlumniScene

September 16, 2016 Alumni Student Symposium

December 2, 2016 Music Department Alumni Reception

The Alumni Association Board hosted the inaugural Alumni Student Symposium. There were 40+ alumni and 300+ students that participated. The purpose of the symposium is to bring alumni and students together so that our students can benefit from their skills and experiences. In a panel setting separated by school, alumni answered questions about internships, offered career advice and “life-after-college” advice.

At TU’s annual Christmas at the Ritz, music department alumni joined current students for the final song on stage and gathered at the Wall Street Pub & Grille for food and drinks.

September 23, 2016 Equestrian Alumni Reception Equestrian alumni gathered for food and drinks at the Wall Street Pub & Grille. The next day, they volunteered at the TU Equestrian home event.

December 3, 2016 Track and Field Alumni Open Track and Field alumni were invited to compete in the 5th annual Track and Field Alumni Open.

December 16, 2016 National Championship Party in Orlando September 25, 2016 Washington D.C. Alumni Reception Alumni who reside in the Washington D.C. area gathered in downtown D.C. to meet with President Lillian Schumacher and members of the TU faculty and staff. The event provided for great networking and a campus update.

To celebrate the 2016 Indoor Track and Field National Championship, we hosted a special championship party in Orlando, Fla., in coordination with the National Track and Field Coaches Association convention.

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HOMECOMING HIGHLIGHTS •

2016 Hall of Fame Honorees: George Whitfield (Football); Rachel Garofolo (Women’s Soccer); Brienne (Beaschler) Lemire (Women’s Basketball); Denita (Robinson) Hursey (Softball); Neil Heacock (Track & Field); Paul Marion (honorary). There was a special recognition of the inaugural women’s soccer team who were celebrating 25 years of program history.

February 4, 2017 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Alumni Day Men and women basketball alumni gathered for a double header, food, drinks and fun.

• 25+ Reunion Breakfast with over 50+ alumni attendees • Alumni softball game • Aaron Ciak Golf Outing to raise funds for the Aaron Ciak Endowed Scholarship

Homecoming SEPTEMBER 16,-18, 2016

• Homecoming tailgate and football game

Tiffin University’s Homecoming took place the weekend of September 16-18. Homecoming is a very special event on campus that unites students, alumni, faculty, staff and the Tiffin community to celebrate Tiffin University and their Dragon Pride!

March 11, 2017 FORE Fun in Florida! We hosted the 4th annual FORE Fun in Florida golf outing scramble and social event at Majestic Golf Club in Lehigh Acres, Fla. The event included TU alumni & friends as well as Tiffin and Seneca County community members.

March 22, 2017 Tiffin University Women’s Leadership Conference Tiffin University Alumna Roni Burkes (MCJ ’00), served as the TU WLC keynote. Melissa Coe (BCJ ’97), Jill Gosche (MH ’14) and JoElle Hall (MEd ’14, MBA ’12, BBA ’08) were honored with the “Each One, Reach One” award for their commitment to inspiring others through service, education, teamwork and compassion. In addition, a large group of alumni attended as table leaders and participants.

(continued p36)

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April 7, 2017 Volleyball Alumni Night

April 8, 2017 Tennis Alumni Day

April 26, 2017 Graduation Toast

Volleyball alumni gathered with new head coach, Shauna Hurles, and the current team for a meet and greet, alumni game and then enjoyed dinner at the Wall Street Pub & Grille.

Men’s tennis alumni enjoyed friendly tennis matches after cheering the Dragons to victory over the University of Findlay.

A graduation toast was held in the Marion Center in honor of all students graduating from TU.

April 29, 2017 Graduation We welcomed 900+ people to the Tiffin University Alumni Association and honored six “Golden Grads” from the class of 1967, Elaine Bockbrader, Jim Gonya, Ted Kuenzli, Sandra Lehner, Carol Manbeck and Jan Sorg and one special “Diamond Grad” from the class of 1942, Mr. Russell Sorg.

alumni association Our alumni are the lifeblood of the institution and influence all areas of Tiffin University. n We will maintain and continue to strengthen our relationships with our alumni family.

We will build programs that will support lifelong connections to TU.

We recognize that alumni are TU’s most loyal supporters.

We know alumni create invaluable word-of-mouth marketing among their social and professional networks. n

n We engage with our alumni so that TU can continue to benefit from their skills and experience.

We identify alumni that are great role models for current students and can offer practical support to students as they start their careers. n

April 7-8, 2017 Soccer Alumni Weekend

April 8, 2017 Football Spring Game and Alumni Recognition

Men’s and women’s soccer alumni enjoyed a fun weekend on campus! They enjoyed dinner on Friday at men’s soccer alumnus Chris Chase’s restaurant, MST Pub & Grub. On Saturday, they competed in friendly team games.

The Dragon football team hosted their annual Green & Gold Spring Game. Alumni were present and enjoyed a family picnic after the game.

n We know alumni are our international ambassadors and that they take their knowledge of our institution to their hometown and countries and into their professional and social networks. n We recognize that maintaining a positive, authentic relationship with our alumni means that the messages they share about TU will also be positive – and current. n By helping the institution become bigger, stronger and more successful, alumni are also enhancing the value of their own degree qualification.

April 7-9, 2017 Inaugural Lacrosse Alumni Weekend TU lacrosse hosted their inaugural lacrosse alumni weekend.

May 2, 2017 Launch of the TU Virtual Book Club TU’s Alumni Office launched a virtual book club focused on professional development and personal growth. The group is an online community where alumni can connect with each other and enjoy books on professional topics such as business, communications, leadership, productivity and more. Participation is free for TU alums.

April 22-23, 2017 Baseball and softball Alumni Weekend TU baseball and softball alumni and their families enjoyed food and drink in the family lounge.

May 11, 2017 Columbus Alumni Reception We had a great time visiting with alumni and friends in Columbus. Alumni Association

May 27, 2017 TU Day at Progressive Field Alumni and friends traveled to Progressive Field for a day of fun, food and baseball.

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Back row: Harry Burd, Cuter Peterson, Parris Burt, Ryan Pessell, Jesse Schrader, Richard Collins Front row: Erica Henry, Steve Grubbs, Amy Wood, Bill Hertzer, Amber Romigh, Kelly Giebel Stocker, Jeff Beard, Adam Lupp, Vickie Wilkins

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save the date | HOMECOMING SEPT 29-30 & OCT 1, 2017 Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony • 2017 Inductees: Nate Cole, head football coach 2003-07; Kristina Schweikert, softball 2003-06; Chelsea (Shelnick) Hoskinson, track and field 2004-07; Jessica (Schult) Phillips, volleyball 2003-06; and Dan Grincewicz, men’s golf and women’s golf coach 2002-07 • Graham Ryan (Honorary Inductee) • Special recognition of 2007 football team Hall of Fame After-Party at the Wall Street Pub & Grille Volleyball matches vs Purdue University Northwest and Davenport University Homecoming Golf Outing • 6th Annual Aaron Ciak Memorial Golf Outing at Seneca Hills Golf Course – Alumni, students, family and friends are welcome to attend this annual event! Proceeds for this event go directly to the Aaron Ciak Memorial Endowed Scholarship Annual Kyle Ryman Golf Tournament at Mohawk Country Club hosted by TU Men’s Golf • Proceeds for this event go directly to the Kyle Ryman Endowed Scholarship – Event is free for spectators; this is a collegiate golf tournament Annual 25+ Reunion Luncheon • Join your fellow classmates and alumni for lunch to celebrate your 25+ years since graduation Guided campus tours including the new Performing Arts Laboratory Greek Games and Festivities Music and Performing Arts Alumni Event Homecoming Tailgate Football vs Northwood University

UPCOMING EVENTS ALUMNI BENEFITS

October 1 Annual D.C. Alumni Event Alumni in the Washington D.C. area are invited to mix and mingle with other alumni and TU faculty member Dr. Steve Hurwitz. Look for more information via email or Facebook.

November 29 2nd Annual Alumni Student Symposium The Tiffin University Alumni Association will host the 2nd annual Alumni Student Symposium. Emails of interest to serve on an alumni panel can be sent to Vickie Wilkins, Wilkinsvm@tiffin.edu.

Alumni Programming

As a member of the TU Alumni Association you are entitled to these benefits: n

A wide professional network

Alumni discount for graduate classes at TU

Show your Dragon Pride! The mission of the Dragon PRIDE program is to build and cultivate DRAGON PRIDE between TU alumni, current students, family and friends of TU. We strive to build relationships, strengthen traditions and develop a lifelong loyalty to Tiffin University all in pursuit of the University’s purpose of transforming lives through education. • • • •

Tiffin University graduates, you are automatically a member of the TU Alumni Association. There are no dues to pay. As a member of the TU family, you join the ranks of more than 10,000 living alumni located in the United States and throughout the world.

Connect. Connect with other TU Alumni in upcoming alumni events, networking events, affinity events and on/off campus events. Engage. Engage with our students. Serve as an Alumni mentor, offer career advice, speak on campus, post job/internship opportunities, recruit a student to attend TU. Volunteer. Serve as an alumni captain for your affinity group, serve as a chapter chair, join the Alumni Board, help organize Homecoming special events. Give to TU. Your gift makes a difference.

Exclusive online job listings and career services—visit our career development page

The ability to connect with classmates, professors and staff members

Up-to-Date information on what is happening at TU!

Exclusive benefits and perks

Alumni Resources - request a transcript, sign up for the Alumni e-Newsletter and more!

TU Comes to YOU Program TU Comes to YOU are events hosted in cities around the country. They serve as an opportunity for alumni and friends of TU to meet, network and interact with other TU supporters in the cities in which our TU family resides. They also give alumni the opportunity to hear about all the new and exciting things happening at TU.

Free walking pass in the Heminger Center (restricted hours, must get ID).

TU discounts at local hotels for Homecoming, special events and more!

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.

Special invitations to TU Comes to YOU social and networking gatherings all around the country.

The ability to give back through annual giving, scholarships and volunteer opportunities.

Dragon Connect The Dragon Connect program was launched through a partnership between Tiffin University’s Institutional Advancement Office and the Career Services Office. The mission of the program is to provide an opportunity to connect current Dragons with Tiffin University graduates or friends to explore careers, advice and aid in the development of professional networks. 38 | AlumniScene

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Ronette “Roni” Burkes MCJ/JA 2000

seen in her interactions with employees, offenders, crime victims and community partners.

Burkes’s visit to TU in March was busy. She served as the keynote speaker during TU’s Women’s Leadership Seminar, Good Morning World breakfast lecture series and assisted bringing “Art from the Inside,” to the Diane Kidd Gallery. About Roni Burkes A 16-year employee of Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, Ronette “Roni” Burkes has served as a victim advocate, assistant administrator, administration assistant and deputy warden. Today, she is the warden at Ohio Reformatory for Women (ORW) in Marysville and was named the 2016 Warden of the Year in Ohio. Throughout the course of her service, Burkes has been recognized with numerous awards: “2015 Woman of the Year” by the Women of Color Foundation and “2015 Black History Achievement Award” presented by the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Columbus, Ohio. She is an active member of the American Correctional Association, Ohio Correctional Court Services Association and the North American Association of Warden’s and Superintendents.

During her time as warden at the ORW, Burkes has implemented groundbreaking and progressive approaches for those under her care. For example, she began a program where offenders sing to terminally ill children in South Africa and another where offenders help people in need in the local community. She also volunteers with the Harmony Project in Columbus. In 2016, Burkes was also featured by CBS Sunday Morning News as they showcased the work by ORW and The Harmony Project. These innovative approaches and ways of leading have garnered Roni much local and national acclaim. Burkes said she is fortunate to have a staff who cares about the work they do and believes in the mission. “We take care of each other,” she said. Burkes said the staff enjoys what they do. “We know that we inspire people and that we are in the business of saving lives,” she said.

Burkes Keynote at TU Women’s Leadership Conference 2017 About 200 men and women from near and far attended the Women’s Leadership Conference at Tiffin University in March. The event took place in one of TU’s newest venues, The Marion Center.

According to Gary Mohr, director of the Ohio Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, “Roni’s compassion for people is not contained within the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. Whether advising staff, providing opportunities for success upon release to incarcerated individuals, or providing service to underprivileged individuals in the community, Roni strives, every day, to improve the lives of many.” Burkes earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice in Justice Administration (MCJ/JA) degree from Tiffin University in 2000. She said she is honored to be a graduate of Tiffin University. Burkes’s professional success can be attributed to her beliefs – she believes women at the prison can do anything, and she has worked hard to change how they see themselves. Her compassion can be

The keynote speech was delivered by TU graduate Roni Burkes and the conflict resolution workshop was led by President Lillian Schumacher. In her opening remarks, President Schumacher noted that there were an amazing group of people in the room. She said it was the fourth year TU has hosted the event, and it seemed to be getting bigger every year. “Leadership is really about influence,” Schumacher said. “It is a process that continues throughout one’s lifetime and a skill that develops over time.” Schumacher then reflected on John Maxwell’s belief that leadership is influence. During her keynote speech, Burkes said the mission statement for her department at Ohio Reformatory for Women, which is the oldest operating state prison, is to reduce reoffending. The inmate count during the week she spoke at TU was 2,626 women. The average sentence length of those imprisoned is 4.28 years and the average length of stay is 2.26 years. The oldest inmate is 82 years old. “Women are the fastest-growing population in the prison system across the country, and there is an epidemic,” Burkes said. “The issue really is drugs and alcohol.” Burkes said officials at the prison are working hard to make women employable. Burkes explained that women at the prison are learning about how to build houses, organic gardening, cosmetology and culinary skills, to name a few.

Dr. Claire Van Ummersen, retired senior advisor at American Council on Education, said the origin of the conference began in 2001 and is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to think about leadership, especially women’s leadership, and the kind of leadership to which they aspire. Don’t be afraid to take opportunities that come on the journey, Van Ummersen said. “That’s how you learn,” she said.

Jill Gosche, Melissa Coe, President Schumacher Not pictured: JoElle Hall

Each One – Reach One Award At the conclusion of the Women’s Leadership Seminar, three individuals were named as recipients of the seminar’s “Each One – Reach One” award. Criteria of this award: She is committed to inspiring others through service, education, teamwork and compassion. • • •

JoElle Hall (MEd 2014, MBA 2012, BBA 2008), is an undergraduate admissions employee at Tiffin University. JoElle was not in attendance. Melissa Coe (BCJ 1997), works at Juvenile Residential Center of Northwest Ohio. Jill Gosche (MH 2014), is the online editor at The AdvertiserTribune.

Burkes Presented at Good Morning World During Tiffin University’s March Good Morning World Breakfast Lecture, Burkes said it was wonderful to be back at Tiffin University, and the growth was amazing. “This University means so much to me,” she said. Burkes said she loves people and is always in the learning mode. She said her mother taught her how important it is to care about people, and her mother told her she wanted her to go to school, graduate and get a good education. “She is my biggest supporter,” she said. Burkes reflected on what her mother told her when a boy was being picked on a lot. “Whatever you do,” her mother told her, “don’t you ever participate in that. I need you to treat people with respect. How you treat people really matters,” Burkes said. (continued p42)

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oh, the places our alumni go #TiffinUAlumni master’s degree in business administration from TU. “I loved retail, but I knew I wanted to have my own boutique, as opposed to working corporate retail,” Hunker said. She is looking forward to improving her business in the next few years by opening a storefront and offering young girls’ clothing in addition to women’s clothes. Currently, the store offers limited girls’ clothes that match women’s clothing for mother/daughter outfits.

Heather Hunker Art from the Inside Burkes and fellow TU alumnae Jennifer Gillece Black (BCJ 2003, MSCJ 2005), a deputy superintendent at the Grafton Reintegration Center, and Marti Jerew (BCJ 2003, MSCJ 2005), a unit manager at the Marion Correctional Institution and an adjunct faculty member at Tiffin University, helped bring an art exhibit, “Art from the Inside,” to the Diane Kidd Gallery in February. The exhibit was co-curated by Professor Lee Fearnside, director of the gallery, and Dr. Steven Hurwitz, professor of psychology and criminal justice. It was designed to give visitors a glimpse into the under-represented population of artists – an experience of Ohio inmates both visually and audibly. The exhibit connected art appreciation, contemporary art and the criminal justice system. TU alumna Caitlyn Largent (BCJ 2016) and criminal justice/ forensic psychology students Beata Krembuszewski and Andrea Alaniz (both of whom graduated this year) aided in conducting, recording and transcribing the interviews with the inmates. Because of their dedication to this project, guests of the gallery were able to view the art and listen to audio recordings of the artists discussing the motivation and the meaning behind their art. “Some of these artists made art before prison, while others discovered art during incarceration. Their work is neither outsider art nor prison art – it is simply art,” Fearnside said. “I felt so honored to be asked to help with this project,” Largent said. “I believe this project was not only groundbreaking, it was beautiful but also created a lot of feelings of conflict. I have always been more focused on helping victims of crimes, so the humanization of these inmates and meeting them face-to-face was

extremely moving. Going forward in my career I will be focused on victims but because of this experience, I am also reminded that inmates may also have been victims.” Krembuszewski wants to work with offenders in her future career, so having the chance to talk to them and hear about their experiences was really important to her. “I loved hearing the inmates speak about their art and for a second, I hope it felt like they were not inmates, but rather, they were artists. The majority of them seemed to take great pride in their art, not just because of how phenomenal the pieces were, but because they finally had a label other than inmate or criminal. Some of the interviews were very emotional for the artists. “Art serves many different functions for this community of artists,” Hurwitz said. “It transforms time. Prison life can be a monotonous daily routine that does not offer much relief for the inmates behind the walls. But the artists, whose work is displayed in this exhibit, were able to find inspirations in different places and turn time into an ally. Some of the more complex creations can take as long as six months. Ironically, if that same person were not in prison, the demands and vagaries of daily life would not afford them the time to concentrate on their art. More importantly, it occupies time constructively. It provides them with the motivation to create and to strive for excellence. Pride comes when someone looks at their work and says it is good art and not just good for prison art.” The exhibit continued the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections’ long history of community partnerships. It has contributed to Ohio being able to show a recidivism rate of 27.5 percent, far better than the national average of 49. 5 percent.

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Master of Business Administration 2012 Management, Leadership alumna Heather Hunker (MBA 2012) has opened Ma chère Claire Boutique, a new store in downtown Tiffin that offers high-quality women’s apparel and accessories.

Before she opened her shop on February 15 inside the Ye Crimpers Shoppe salon, she opened her store online. She continues to maintain her website at www.machereclaire.com, which allows customers to view and order the store’s products from home. Kelsey Creamer, one of the models at Ma chère Claire Boutique, said, “I love the products they have, they are great quality, and I love supporting local businesses.” Hunker gained retail experience when she managed Peebles at Westgate for five years. She earned a

from Tiffin University. I LOVE Tiffin! My husband and I are now living and raising our children in Tiffin. At TU, I had the opportunity to study with some of the most reputable business instructors and leaders. The education provided prepared me to confidently start my own business. Written by TU graduate Ibrahim Alsairi

Working with other small apparel retail stores in Tiffin is one of her objectives to promote their businesses and to improve the city. “I believe that the more successful we all are as an industry, the better Tiffin will become,” she said. “Tiffin has had some great economic developments, and there is so much more on the way. I want to be a part of that and help other small businesses be successful, too.” She warns shoppers to act fast if they see something they like, because it may not be there tomorrow. Why did Heather choose Tiffin University? I love my hometown and the reputable business program Tiffin had to offer. What does being a Tiffin University graduate mean to you? There is a lot of pride I carry with receiving my master’s degree from Tiffin University. I grew up in Tiffin, completed my undergrad in my hometown, and then proudly received my MBA

Erik Lawson Master of Science 2016 Criminal Justice: Homeland Security Administration lum, Erik Lawson, reached new heights when he received the position of program protection analyst – team lead for the Missile Defense Agency, working for the System High Corporation and Booz-Allen-Hamilton.

As a team lead, Lawson manages a contractor team across the U.S. in regards to terrorism threat analysis. The team of contractors span from Washington D.C. to Colorado Springs. They work in areas of emergency management, antiterrorism/force protection

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and infrastructure security for the Missile Defense Agency. Their services protect U.S. personnel and assets, as well as assets abroad. To get to where he is today, Lawson had to re-enter school to obtain a master’s degree.“This was anything but a normal journey,” said Lawson. The process of earning his degree was unlike most other graduate students. Lawson had to juggle work, family and serving in the military, while completing his studies. Completing his master’s degree was a huge accomplishment and reinforced why he went back to school. “It was not an easy path, but it was a worthy one in order to achieve my aspirations.” Returning to school provided a foundation for future success. Earning a master’s degree helped Lawson receive the position of team lead. He enjoys the opportunity to support and educate the workforce as well as strengthen the defense of the U.S. Lawson promotes and encourages others to further their education. He leaves a word of advice from Walt Whitman: “That you are here – that life exists, and identity, that the powerful play goes on and you may contribute a verse. What will your verse be?” (continued p44)

often exhausting, job that has yielded a number of successful apprehensions.

David Siler Class of 1996 Bachelor of Criminal Justice S. Marshals have been portrayed on film by the likes of John Wayne, Tommy Lee Jones and Leonardo DeCaprio, but Tiffin University graduate David Siler (BCJ 1996) is the real deal. And like his big screen counterparts, Siler is matter of fact about what he does for a living.

“We catch the bad guys,” he says simply. “I was part of the 9/11 class,” he explains during a recent visit to TU. “My first duty, I was sent to New York City to assist in everything and anything we could after the terrorist attack. We were in charge of supporting and securing the airports and when I left New York, I was sent to the Cleveland office.” After a stint in Chicago, Siler returned to Cleveland where, in early 2015, he was assigned to the U.S. Marshals Service Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force’s Cold Case Unit. It’s an exciting, and

of Cleveland Metroparks. Anthony understands the big picture and the impact that IT can have on the organization and the community. “

lot of reading; they take a lot of time. To find a trail for the Freshwaters case, for example, you have to go back to the day he escaped. You have to find everybody in prison who he talked to, every person who has been involved in his life. It’s not impossible. It just takes time.”

One of Siler‘s most noteworthy accomplishments involved the capture of Frank Freshwaters, known as the “Shawshank fugitive.” Freshwaters had been on the lam for 56 years after Siler returns to Tiffin he escaped from a prison University on an ongoing basis camp following a vehicular to speak with students about manslaughter prospective conviction. employment A former marine, David Siler Freshwaters in the U.S. has enjoyed a distinguished was captured Marshals career with the U.S. Marshals in a small Service. for more than 16 years. It’s town in an elite occupation. Every He stressed Florida year thousands of applicants to students and most attempt to earn “The Star” the need notably was to fulfill their childhood for taking the longest dreams. He served on personal running Marine One, the call sign for responsibility, escaped the Marine aircraft carrying particularly fugitive ever the President of the United in the arena captured by States. of their use of the United the Internet. Last summer, Siler was States The Deputy selected as the Top Marshals U.S. Marshal Operational Employee Service. cautioned for the entire nation for “My job is a that unsavory his work spearheading lot of good, posts on the Cleveland Marshals old-fashioned Facebook and newly formed Cold Case police work,” other social Unit. He was named by Siler says. “The media often Cleveland Magazine in 2016 people we is a detriment as one of Cleveland, Ohio’s go after have to future Most Interesting People already been employment. (Northeast Ohio’s premier convicted and fugitive hunter). “What I they don’t preach to want to go students – hard work pays back to jail. We try to figure off – but who you surround out their pattern, and once yourself with is also key,” he you do that, maybe you can said. “I love coming back find a weakness. We’re just to Tiffin and talking to the trying to get the guy in front students.” of a judge. It can be a pretty rewarding and dangerous job.” It’s also an occupation that takes plenty of patience. “Right now I have anywhere between 15 and 16 cases,” Siler explains. “These cases take a 44 | AlumniScene #TiffinUAlumni

Anthony Joy Class of 1999 Bachelor of Business Administration s the Cleveland Metroparks’ first CIO, Anthony Joy has the unique responsibility of leading an IT function that supports 18 park reservations, a nationally acclaimed zoo, eight golf courses, more than 23,000 acres of land, restaurants, lakefront properties and a fully commissioned law enforcement agency.

Joy, the recipient of the Rising Star award, manages a diverse portfolio of IT projects in a fast-paced environment. In 2014, he developed a five-year strategic plan that concentrated on mobility, collaboration, connectivity and integration. So far, the plan has improved customer service, increased revenue and created a new identity for the IT function. “In his short tenure, Joy has been instrumental in boosting employee satisfaction and engagement through greater access to personal communication channels, devices and other technology avenues,” the nomination said. “Reducing cost and enhancing productivity is evident in the day-to-day functions

In 2015, Joy replaced the majority of the network. This upgrade increased infrastructure uptime for network devices from 64 percent to 96 percent. An upgraded camera system provided better security access to rangers, animal monitoring capabilities for zoo staff and population study access for the natural resources department. This upgrade also allowed the zoo to monitor first-time orangutan mom Kera Wak giving birth. “Anthony has progressively advanced the technology and connectivity of all areas of business since his start with Cleveland Metroparks,” said CEO Brian Zimmerman. “In the short period of time that Anthony has been with the park district, he has brought our operations up to speed and has led the charge in finding solutions regardless of complexities.”

in the zoo’s new meeting venue, Stillwater Place. “Anthony is just getting started,” Zimmerman says. “He continues to lay the foundation for sustainable business practices that catapult the park district into our next century of growth.” In his spare time, Joy competes in marathons and triathlons. He also provides pro bono IT guidance and collaboration with various entities, and he served on the board of a small independent production company.

completely different direction and landed an analyst position at the Virginia Supreme Court. Johnson says her career at the highest court in Virginia has been fulfilling. She compiles data, tracks and reports judge comings and goings and conducts research for court innovations and training. But for this Renaissance woman, a more unique path had been nudging itself to the forefront of her mind for decades. She simply could not shake the desire to explore another childhood passion – the fashion industry. Of course there were schools designed specifically for that purpose. But before pursuing any of those, Johnson first wanted to get a master’s level education.

Amanda Johnson Class of 2013 Master of Humanities

Joy is leading short- and longterm initiatives to address integration and navigation of the public website, including the launch of a new website to align and reinforce Cleveland Metroparks’ brand. He also is leading an upgrade to the organization’s financial system.

rom the age of eight, Amanda Johnson wanted nothing more than to become a doctor. After high school she began by earning a bachelor’s degree in biology. But then it occurred to Johnson that her aversion to bodily fluids made healing the sick an unrealistic proposition.

In his nomination form, Joy is praised for adding value to the organization by building a noticeable track record of delivery, including upgrading the golf reservation system, installing a point-of-sale system and installing a stateof-the-art audio-visual system

Fortunately, her list of passions didn’t end there. For a while, she worked as a scientist. There also was that interest in education – she taught seventh grade Life Science for three years – until finally she opted for a

“That’s when God brought Tiffin University and me together,” she says. She chose a Master of Humanities and earned that degree in December 2013. It was during the program at TU that she discovered how much she missed teaching. “I knew I wanted to teach again, but this time in higher education,” Johnson says. “Eventually I’d like to start my own school or program in fashion for the adult learner. Along the way, I have started my own online clothing retail business called ScaleduP Apparel. I’ve written a couple books and maintain a few blogs. The humanities program ignited my creativity and the wheels haven’t stopped churning since.”

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That’s not to say she’s given up her day job just yet. She still works for the Virginia Supreme Court, but in September she also began teaching humanities as an adjunct professor at Bryant & Stratton College. In July, Johnson started Scaled-uP Apparel online with plans to open a boutique in five years. It’s a busy life, but for her, it is a dream come true. “I used to design clothes when I was a little girl. I also loved art and taking photographs, even developing my pictures in a dark room,” she says. “Eventually, I want to teach humanities, art appreciation and creativity in the workplace as it pertains to the fashion school or program I want to start.” Johnson has some relevant advice for young people who are preparing for their careers. It is a guideline born from years of experience. “Whenever I advise teens, I ask them what their passions are. I tell them not to get lost in the career rat race,” she stresses. “Figure out what your passions and gifts are and make sure you at least minor in that field. I know that now, but it is all working out because my Supreme Court job is funding my dream of owning my own store and being a fashion stylist. It’s never too late.”

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Editor’s Note: In the time Challenge was not published, every effort was made to retain all ClassScene news submissions realizing some may be out of date, but were valuable to all of us just the same. Now that we are back on track, we encourage and welcome your career updates, marriage and birth announcements, and most importantly, your memories and photos. We apologize in advance if some of the news that follows is no longer correct.

1950s George Loving, Class of 1959, Lewisville, Texas, recently retired.

1970s Clarence Strahm Jr., Class of 1976, Fostoria, Ohio, was the recipient of the “Veteran of the Year” honor. He joined the Army in 1969 and completed basic training and airborne training prior to being ordered to Vietnam. Clarence’s military awards include the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, Expert Rifle Badge, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Air Medal. He retired from National Carbide Co. after 46 years.

1980s Cynthia Zoll Lahey, Class of 1982, Findlay, Ohio, is an executive administrative assistant at the University of Findlay.

John Wilson, Class of 1989, Troy, Ohio, is the executive director of the nonprofit Troy Main Street downtown advocacy organization.

1990s Chad Brubaker, Class of 1993, Mansfield, Ohio, was promoted from Mansfield Police Department’s Community Services Bureau sergeant to lieutenant after working in a variety of positions for approximately 22 years. He and his wife have three children. Clyde “Rod” Rodney Rumer, Class of 1993, Mustang, Okla., is a plant manager at General Electric. He wrote, “I am able to lead change, build teams and create an atmosphere of success. I enjoy working with people and contributing to the growth of a business.” Clyde married the “neighbor girl” and they have three children and five grandchildren. Rex Damschroder, MBA 1994, Fremont, Ohio, was presented with the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award – the most prestigious award given by the Federal Aviation Administration, recognizing professionalism, skill and expertise in aviation and 50 years of flight.

Chris Ehrlich, Class of 1989, Westville, Ind., is a self-employed counselor.

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Mark Lightbourn, Class of 1994, Cincinnati, Ohio, is an IT analyst/system programmer at Integrated Research. He wrote, “The career path I have chosen has allowed me to grow in many other areas that I did not expect. I have met new people that have helped me advance my career and develop my skills.” Mark’s favorite campus memories were from being a part of the International Student Club, where he met and made many friends. “TU was not a school I was aware of at the time I was following my dreams of higher education,” he said. “I attended another school that led me to Tiffin. Once I visited the town and the school, I knew it was where I wanted to go.” Scott Rike, Class of 1994, Bucyrus, Ohio, became the commander of the Bucyrus post of the Ohio Highway Patrol in 2016. He has been with the Highway Patrol for 19 years. His wife, Tami, is the humane agent for the Crawford County Humane Society. They have two sons, Jax, age 6, and David, age 8. Jennifer (Wetzel) Stallard, Class of 1995, Butler, Ohio, is a restaurant general manager for Panera. Julia Michele Walsh, MBA 1995, Findlay, Ohio, works at Marathon Petroleum Company as an IT supervisor-Human Resources & Administrative Services. She chose TU because she was looking for a college that was close and focused on business/economics. “TU was one of the only MBA programs at the time for working students.”

ClassScene 1990s Susan (Carney) Beeman, Class of 1996, North Olmsted, Ohio, is a newborn hearing screener at Cleveland Clinic. She wrote, “I have been married for 13 years to my best friend and father of our 12-year-old daughter, Brooklynn, who is a straight A student and excellent soccer, basketball and volleyball player. My husband, Russ, also coaches our 10-year-old son, Zachary’s, soccer and football teams.” Susan loves working with patients and newborn babies, as well as spending a lot of time with her family and enjoying a stress-free job. Dr. Ronald Schumacher Jr., MBA 1996, Tiffin, Ohio was appointed as a member of the Terra State Community College Board of Trustees in November. Loretta (Stouffer) Everett, Class of 1999, Loudon, Tenn., works as a project manager for Young Williams CSS. Her favorite TU campus memory was being a member of Sigma Delta Sigma sorority.

2000s Lucianne (Miller) Bowlus, Class of 2000, Tiffin, Ohio, writes, “Since I retired from the Sandusky County Department of Job and Family Services in 2015, I have had more free time to catch up on gardening, cooking, reading and overall relaxing. I work as a sub for Fremont and Tiffin City Schools and I can pick and choose the days I want to work.”

Michelle (Lofton) Durbin, Class of 2000, Lewis Center, Ohio, works as an accounting consultant for Nationwide Insurance. She writes, “I like that it is an occupation that is available all over the country. I also like the variety of work that comes with it. Many people hear accounting and think that it is boring, but that is not the case and I really enjoy it.” Michelle and her husband, Jeffrey, met at Tiffin University. Stephanie (McCoy) Loquvam, Class of 2000, Phoenix, Az., was selected as one of the Top 40 Young Lawyers on the Rise by the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division. This selection provides national recognition for ABA young lawyer members who exemplify a broad range of high achievement, innovation, vision, leadership and legal and community service. Stephanie is an attorney for Moyes Sellers & Hendricks Ltd. Lisa Lee Poe, Class of 2002, Ottoville, Ohio, wrote, “I work for an employer that really cares about their employees, St. Rita’s Medical Center. I chose this path because I love working with numbers and that’s what I do. The company is amazing to myself as well as my wife, Jill. Jill and I went to New York to get married. We are pet people and have three dogs, Sadie, Cotton and Zoe. We also have two cats, Miley and Squish. I would say that my greatest accomplishment is marrying my beautiful wife. She is an amazing woman with a huge heart.”

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Mitchell Treece, Class of 2001, Findlay, Ohio, is a senior systems administrator at Bowling Green State University. He met his wife, Kathy, while attending TU. Jamie Young, Class of 2001, Carey, Ohio, is the varsity boys’ basketball coach at Carey High School. He teaches fourth grade in the district and has previously served as assistant coach. Mark Elliott, Class of 2002, Marion, Ohio, was promoted to lieutenant for the Marion Police Department in 2015.

Pete Sciulli, Class of 2002, Lakewood, Ohio, is the owner of Supplemental Sourcing LLC. He is living the dream of working for himself and the flexibility that goes along with it. Pete wrote, “I have a son who was with me on the day I graduated at TU. He is now in college at Ohio Northern. I completed my BA and MBA later in life and my son remembers me doing it. It has had a positive effect on his work ethic and drive to go to college himself. As for me, I am just starting the third decade of my career and have started my own firm. We are a support resource for businesses and organizations buying information technology. I am loving it, but the company is still very new so there are many challenges to overcome. I look forward to conquering them all.”

Amy Stoodt, MBA 2002, Sugarland, Texas, owner/principal of Lean-ToConsulting, LLC, has been recognized as a distinguished professional in her field through the National Association of Distinguished Professionals. Amy has spent the past 25 years working for major owners and operators, as well as engineering firms, before making the decision to start her own consulting business in 2014.

Tracy Hahn, MCJ 2004, Upper Arlington, Ohio, was recently sworn in as the City of Upper Arlington’s first female police chief. She began her career with The Ohio State University Police Department in 1990 after graduating from Ohio State. Tracy joined the Upper Arlington force in 1993.

Ty Estus Narada, MCJ 2008 and Class of 2000, Page, Az., is a federal officer for DHS. He said that what he likes most about his career path is “keeping Americans safe.” Ty enjoys being a grandparent. Phillip Epstein, Class of 2002, Solon, Ohio, wrote, “After Tiffin, I enrolled at Cleveland State University for my MBA (graduated in 2009). I am a proud grandfather. In September 2016, I was promoted to a senior sales manager at GE. Awards and honors include Account Executive of the Year, GE Critical Power Inclusiveness Award, General Electric Leading Scorer Award, Advanced Network Services Rookie of the Year Award, Advanced Network Services Certified Hotel Administrator, The Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Motel Association Certified Food & Beverage Executive, The Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Motel Association, Iota Epsilon Chapter of Delta Mu Delta, National Honor Society in Business Administration (TU), Academic Distinction Presidents Award, PECO II and Member of 1st Ohio Business College Challenge – 1st Place Finish.”

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Eric Hamner, Class of 2004, Ashville, Ohio, is the head track and cross country coach at Ohio Christian University. He writes, “I am happy to be returning to coaching college athletes and have the opportunity to teach sports management classes as well as education classes. I also really enjoy working for a Christian organization that really has heart for their students and employees. Mentoring student-athletes and helping them reach their full potential both on and off the track is a great blessing.” Eric and his wife, Carrie, welcomed a son, Sawyer James. Carrie earned her nurse practitioners license. Joseph E. Vargo III, Class of 2004, Bedford, Ohio, is a firefighter for the City of Elyria. He wrote, “I have entered a very rewarding and satisfying career, providing for and helping others in need.”

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Jamie Gregor and Ken Cody, Class of 2005, Cape Coral, Fla., moved to Florida after graduating from TU. They have two boys, Brayden and Carson. Jamie wrote, “We both have great jobs; I work in the hotel industry at Diamond Beach Resort & Spa as guest services manager and Ken works in law enforcement. We have both been able to pursue careers utilizing the degrees we obtained from TU.” When asked why she chose TU, she said, “The small class sizes and the opportunity to continue to play volleyball.” Her favorite memory is the friends that she made and have remained in touch with since graduating, and of course, meeting the love of her life. Anthony John Dworznik, Class of 2005, Medina, Ohio, is an executive recruiter for Management Recruiters International. He explained, “I love having the ability to connect good companies with great candidates. It gives me a sense of worth in the community.” He met his spouse, Erica Smith, at TU. Anthony chose TU because of the class sizes and the small town feel. He said, “I didn’t want to be just a number in a large university/college. I had some of the best times of my life in Zahn Hall. We had so many gatherings as a dorm and I am still friends with most of the people from the dorm today. I spent 9 years at a P.I. firm and background investigation company which I couldn’t have done without my CJ degree.”

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Pamela Lockett Randall, MBA 2005 and MCJ 2003, Springfield, Va., is the supervisory immigration services officer for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. “What I like most about the career path I have chosen is that I am in a position to help guide employees in their decision-making processes,” she said. “As a working mother and wife, I liked the fact that I was able to obtain my degree from TU without needing to go to a physical classroom.”

Bryan Harmon, Class of 2005, Tallahassee, Fla., was named head coach of the Stetson University men’s and women’s cross country teams.

Rachel Szablewski Taylor, Class of 2005, Port Clinton, Ohio, welcomed a baby girl, Alivia, in March. Ryan Harpold, Class of 2005, Noblesville, Ind., and his wife, Heather, are the proud parents of two children, Halle and Rowan. Ryan is a football coach at Noblesville High School. Michael R. Lewis, Ph.D., Class of 2005, Parma, Ohio, is now a member of the Parma City School District School Board. Dr. Lewis is a higher education administrator at TU. Tyson Pinion, MBA 2005 and Class of 2003, Tiffin, Ohio, was named as the new director of Corporate Engagement and Individual Giving at the University of Findlay. Tyson, who is in charge of building partnerships between various corporations and the university, worked in a similar role for the past year by working with university alumni. Prior to working at the University of Findlay, Pinion worked in advancement at Purdue University, Tiffin University and Bowling Green State University.

join us

Mandi Balduf, MBA 2006 and Class of 2002, Memphis, Tenn., is the head softball coach at Christian Brothers University. “I’m loving all that Memphis has to offer,” she wrote. Andrea Jaworski, Class of 2006, Ottawa Hills, Ohio, works for Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities as a service and support administrator. Emily Longoria, Class of 2006, Fremont, Ohio, is a deputy sheriff for the Sandusky County Sheriff. Mark Lewis Thomas, Class of 2006, Kennett Square, Pa., is employed by Penn Fusion Soccer Academy as the general manager/director of coaching. He wrote, “What I like most about the career path I have chosen is doing something I love and have passion for.”

alumni events

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Briana (Rainey) Violand, Class of 2006, Amherst, Ohio, is an international board certified lactation consultant and her business is Northcoast Lactation Services. She wrote, “I’ve finally opened my own business and couldn’t be happier. I provide prenatal breastfeeding classes, postpartum support with any breastfeeding difficulties and back-to- work consults, all in the comfort of the client’s home.” Jaime Barnier, MBA 2007, Bellevue, Ohio, was promoted to director of operations for Firelands Physician Group. She and her husband, Chris, have a daughter. Paul Denton, MCJ 2007, Orient, Ohio, chief of The Ohio State University Police Division, was presented the Distinguished Leadership Award during the 2015 National Sports Safety and Security Conference and Exhibition. The award recognizes a professional in the field whose career includes multiple achievements and contributions with respect to sport safety and security. At The Ohio State, Denton reorganized the approach to address campus crime issues. Under Chief Denton, the agency earned accreditation from the commission on the Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies. He has successfully directed public safety operations for major campus events and has worked as a member of the exercise design team and evaluator for tabletop, functional and full-scale emergency exercises on local and countywide levels. He served more than 28 years with the Columbus Division of Police and retired with the rank of commander before his appointment as chief at The Ohio State University Police Division. In 2014, he served on the U.S. Department of Education’s Violence Against Women’s Act-Negotiated Rule Making Committee and was a panelist to a series of roundtable discussions on combating rape and sexual assaults on college campuses hosted by member of the U.S. Senate. Denton serves

on numerous campus, community and professional work groups, including an appointment by the governor to the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission and as past Chair of the Franklin County Chiefs Association. He is a subject matter expert of the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security. Amy Miller, Class of 2007, Carroll, Ohio, is a clinical director at Ohio Addiction Recovery Center. She wrote, “I love working with people who suffer from drug and alcohol issues. I love watching people grow and have hope for a better life. I am proud of my new position and that I have been able to move up in my career pretty fast and make a name for myself in the field.” Thomas John Nims, Class of 2007, Clayton, N.C., is a systems administrator for Enviva LP. Cristal Lemmon Waser, MBA 2007, Class of 1987 and 1991, DuBois, Pa., is a human resources professional for Berry Plastics. She wrote, “As a Tiffin resident, attending TU allowed me to continue working my full-time job while obtaining a degree. The convenience of a hometown education was instrumental in being a mom and working to better myself as an adult student. Dr. Miller was very influential in helping me realize that I could have a college education and a brighter future. I moved to Pennsylvania seven years ago. I was married on a beach in Maui and I’m looking forward to a return visit to celebrate our anniversary with family. My family, children and grandchildren all reside in Tiffin, so I come home often to visit and stay involved in the community. Greg, my husband, is an environmental, health, and safety professional.” Sherrie Lynette Grayer, Class of 2007, Willowick, Ohio, is a senior administrative assistant for ABB Inc. in Wickliffe.

Earl Campbell, Class of 2008, Cleveland, Ohio, works for RR Donnelley & Sons as a manufacturing manager. Since graduating from TU, he earned his MBA from Franklin University in 2010 and DBA from California Intercontinental University in 2015. Kathryn (Schmidt) Picha, Class of 2008, Burbank, Calif., married Brett Picha in Cleveland at the Old Historic Courthouse downtown. The couple honeymooned in Moorea, French Polynesia. Kathryn works for the City of Burbank in Management Services, Recruitment & Selection. Ryan Burkholder, Class of 2009, Bluffton, Ohio, was named the new police chief for the city of Bluffton. He has been a member of the department since 2004. Ryan and his wife, Kelli, are parents of three children, Kaitlyn, Matt and Grace. Jon Hemmelgarn, Class of 2009, was recently appointed as the new assistant principal of Washington High School. He started his career at Winfield High School in Winfield, W.Va., as the ninthgrade English teacher. In 2010, Jon moved to Washington to teach ninth-grade English and head the English department. His achievements include attending the Aspiring Leaders Academy in 2014, participating in the Cedarville University ClassScene | 51

Education Department Common Core Panel in 2013 and presenting a Freshmen Transition Implementation to the National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Chris Hines, Class of 2009, Bowling Green, Ohio, is the general sales manager at Perry ProTech. “I get to use my leadership skills to help develop others into their rewarding careers,” Chris said. Chris has two children and enjoys coaching Upwards Basketball. Elaine Ocker Warnecke, MBA 2009 and Class of 2007, Mckinney, Texas, was recently promoted to sales manager at Capital One. Her husband, Craig, is a client manager for learning and development at Capital One. Elaine and Craig have a daughter, Renley Jane. Jon Wiegand, MCJ 2009, Wildwood, N.J., was recently promoted to sergeant of the Wildwood Police Department. He has been an officer with the department for 16 years and previously served as detective sergeant. He is also a senior chief in the U.S. Navy Reserves where he has served for the past 23 years. In his new position, Jon will oversee the department’s investigations unit.

ClassScene 2010s Paul D’Amore, Class of 2010, Laredo, Texas, is a border patrol agent for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. He wrote, “My wife, Katrina and I, met at TU in 2007 as members of the track and field team. We were married in May of 2015.” Kayla (Kauth) Johnson, Class of 2010, Alliance, Ohio, is a schoolbased therapist for Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health. She wrote, “I love working with teens and their families. I get to empower and support students as they process and problem solve life stressors and mental health. I started Alliance High School’s first LGBT support group called SURGE (Stark Urban Resource and Gay Education). It is a therapy-based advocacy, support and education group that allows students who identify as LGBT to come and learn, engage and challenge stereotypes.” Derek Miller, Class of 2010, Spencer, Ohio, was awarded the City of Rittman Police Department’s SWAT Officer of the Year in 2015. He wrote, “I chose Tiffin University to continue my academic and athletic career. I visited the school and fell in love with the campus. I played football and developed great friends over my four years. If I could go back, I would choose TU all over again. I use the knowledge from TU and apply it to my career often, as TU had some of the best CJ professors.” Derek has a daughter, Mckinlee Ann, and a son, Keegan James. Hiley Rainey, Class of 2010, Cleveland, Ohio, is a mortgage underwriter for Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation. He wrote, “What I like most about the career path I have chosen is that I have the opportunity to help individuals achieve the goal of home ownership.”

Clint D. Bryan, Ph.D., MH 2011, Kirkland, Wash., is an assistant professor of English rhetoric and composition at Northwest University. He wrote, “Upon graduating from Tiffin, I applied and was accepted at my first doctoral study choice, Middle Tennessee State University, and graduated in 2016 with a Ph.D. in English. I am currently in my second academic year at a tenure-track position teaching writing, rhetoric and diverse literature (e.g. African-American and World) at a small Christian college in suburban Seattle. I draw daily on skills and aptitudes I gained from my MH degree from TU – especially in classes taught by Dr. Vince Moore, Professor Lee Fearnside and Dr. Teresa Collins. After 20+ years in local church ministry, the classroom has become a place for me to train a new generation of leaders and scholars.” William Joseph Powell, MBA 2011 and Class of 2005, is a mortgage banker for BBMC Mortgage. He writes, “It is a challenging environment where I get to assist people in achieving the dream of home ownership. It is the most rewarding thing I have done since TU and I absolutely love my job. I get to meet people from all over the country and help them enter into new chapters of their lives.” When asked why he chose TU, William replied, “I like to say that TU chose me. The University gave me the opportunity to grow as an individual and experience the truly rewarding benefits of a college education.”

check it out TU’s new website

tiffin.edu

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Rachel Zwayer Randall, MSCJ 2011 and Class of 2010, Orient, Ohio, was married in 2015. She works as an investigator for the Ohio Department of Public Safety. Her husband, Dustin, is a deputy for the Franklin County Sherriff ’s Office. Alicia Rock, MCJ 2011 and Class of 2010, North Royalton, Ohio, is a medicolegal death investigator for Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office. She wrote, “I chose Tiffin University because it offered forensic science and homeland security as areas of study. I loved playing softball and spending time with my closest friends. My younger twin sisters, Ally and Amanda, are students at TU and they are playing on the softball team as well.” Danny Sanchez, Class of 2011, Fremont, Ohio, was elected Mayor of Fremont. At age 33, Sanchez is the youngest mayor in Fremont’s history. He is also the first majority mayor. Danny currently serves as chief probation officer at Fremont Municipal Court and serves on a number of boards throughout the area. Meixi Wang, MBA 2011 and Class of 2009, Fairfax, Va., works for iTalk Global Communications Inc. Tamika (Bryant) Drake, Class of 2012, Athens, Ga., is a call center coordinator at TeleNet Marketing Solutions. “I have been employed with my company for 15+ years and have been promoted to ranks into my current position. I am surrounded by people who are honest, motivated and determined to do well,” she said. Tamika is married with two sons.

Justin L. Epure, Class of 2012, Fairfield, Ohio, works at Fifth Third Bank as a mortgage loan originator. He wrote, “I chose Tiffin to play golf and because of smaller class size. My wife, Dannielle, chose Tiffin for the Government and National Security Program. Our favorite memories of TU have to be Vicki’s omelets in the mornings. Also, living in Craycraft my freshman year. There is no other experience like living in a dorm. Dannielle and I have two daughters. We look forward to bringing our kids to Tiffin soon so they can see where we became the people we are today.” Derrick Jones, Class of 2012, Gainesville, Fla., is an assistant professor of criminal justice at Santa Fe College. He wrote, “What I like most about the career path I have chosen is teaching and interacting with young adults and helping to guide them in reaching their academic and career goals.” Travis LeFlore, Class of 2012, Charlotte, N.C., is the head track and field coach at Wingate University. He wrote, “It’s extremely rewarding and an amazing feeling to be able to help young adults reach their goals on and off the track.” Travis said he chose TU because of the family atmosphere and because it was close to home. “I will be forever grateful to Coach Croy for giving me the opportunity,” he continued. “My favorite campus memory is the lifelong friends I made while at TU. I don’t think I would have had that experience anywhere else. I was named the first African-American Head Coach in Wingate University History in 2015. At the time, I was also the youngest head coach in the NCAA. I have also been featured in the Educational Network Black History Calendar in 2016.”

Melissa Cassidy Osting, Class of 2012, Delphos, Ohio, is a police officer for the St. Marys Police Department. “I love the interaction with so many different types of people on a daily basis and being able to assist those in crisis – it is truly rewarding. Never knowing what the day will bring when going to work is exciting. It’s definitely a challenging career to choose, but I’m so glad I did,” she explained. “I chose TU because of the great reputation it held in the field I wanted to go into. My favorite memory was being on the equestrian team and spending countless hours at the barn and at horse shows. I met some of my best friends there.” Melissa and her husband, Brandon, have a daughter, Meah. Ana Guadalupe Reyes, Class of 2012, Arlington, Va., was married and is employed in youth development at College Summit Inc. She said, “I truly enjoyed my time at Tiffin University. My favorite campus memory is being nominated for Homecoming Queen.”

Gene Smith, Class of 2012, Castalia, Ohio, was recently named as the new curator of the Clyde museums and oversees both the Clyde Museum and the McPherson House. Lori Smith, MBA 2012 and Class of 2009, Aurora, Ohio, is the assistant administrative director at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. She co-authored a book about Clinical Competence Committees and was awarded a Caregiver Award at work for her involvement in cost savings to the organization. “I have a lovely husband, Jeff, three grown daughters, and three grandchildren, in addition to two fur babies.”

show your pride

TU specialty license plate 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. ClassScene | 53

ClassScene 2010s Amber Tacket, Class of 2012, Norwalk, Ohio, was promoted to talent recruitment and engagement generalist at Fisher-Titus Medical Center. Since starting at Fisher-Titus in 2012, she has worked as an administrative specialist in human resources, has served as the treasurer for the Employee Civic Fund, has been a member of the Lean Healthcare Steering Committee, and has served on the Leadership Evaluation Manager Accountability Team.

Chase Barnes, Class of 2013, Findlay, Ohio, is the director of recruitment and development at Northwestern Mutual. He said, “I chose Tiffin University because I liked the small-town atmosphere. The professors and advisors care about each student and will go the extra mile to help them succeed.” Joseph Bobak, MSCJ 2013, Parma, Ohio, was named Parma’s ninth police chief in 2016. He has been with the Parma Police Department for over 25 years.

Spencer Williams, Class of 2012, Tiffin, Ohio, is owner of TechSpace Ltd. located in the Laird Arcade, downtown Tiffin. TechSpace provides technology services to include iPhone and tablet repair, networking, custom built computers, preventative maintenance (cleaning, tuneup, virus removal and data transfer, to name a few). Christian Athey, Class of 2013, Avon Lake, Ohio, is the vice president/ commercial banking at Lorain National Bank. “I have the ability to help business owners achieve their dreams,” he explained.

Ashley Brown, MBA 2013 and Class of 2010, Fremont, Ohio, was recently named the new CEO of the Sandusky County Chamber of Commerce. Maureen (Kurtz) Burks, Class of 2013, Findlay, Ohio, married Gregory Burks. She is a financial analyst at Kuss Filtration in Findlay and Gregory is a design engineer at Peterman Associates. Amanda Gia Johnson, MH 2013, Glen Allen, Va., wrote, “I am an analyst at the Supreme Court of Virginia, but because of my successful completion of the MH program at TU, I was offered and accepted a part-time teaching position at Bryant & Stratton College teaching 54 | ClassScene

humanities. I’m thrilled! Thanks TU! In addition to accepting the teaching position, I started my own clothing retail business in 2015, Scaled-Up Apparel LLC.” Christopher Martinez, MBA 2013, Houston, Texas, works for ROOT SPORTS Southwest in advertising sales. He said, “I enjoy the fact that I get to sell commercials during Houston Astro and Houston Rockets games on TV.” Nicole Yurcaba, MH 2013, Mathias, W. Va., recently joined Bridgewater College’s department of English as an instructor. Bridgewater College is a private, four-year liberal arts college located in the Central Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. In 2016, Nicole published her second poetry chapbook, “Hollow Bottles,” with Red Dashboard Press and she also received publication in Chariton Review for her poem, “Concussion Wave,” and in Gnu Journal for her poems “The Pale Goth Fastens Her Dress,” “The Pale Goth Buys Blank Journals at Target,” and “Half-Past Midnight Behind the Ghoul Garden’s Gates.” April (Gallagher) Rush, MCJ 2013, Louisville, Ky., is a crime analyst at Louisville Metro Police Department. Her husband, Justin, is a corrections sergeant for the Kentucky State Department of Mental Health. Nermin Covic, Class of 2014, Strongsville, Ohio, is an investigations manager for Crimcheck Holdings. Andrew Dean, MBA 2014 and Class of 2012, Perrysburg, Ohio, works for the University of Toledo as an adult and transfer specialist. Anthony Dean, MBA 2014 and Class of 2012, Westland, Mich., is an admissions officer at Madonna University.

Abbey (Martin) Jettinghoff, Class of 2014, Delphos, Ohio, married Jordan Jettinghoff in 2015. She is the assistant chief deputy auditor for the City of Lima. Her husband is a fifth-grade teacher at Landeck Elementary. Hannah McMasters, Class of 2014, Phoenix, Az., works as an accountant for the Department of Economic Security for the State of Arizona. Jessica M. Milligan, MBA 2014 and Class of 2012, Logan, Ohio, works for Heartland Bank. Katlin Nicely, Class of 2014, Findlay, Ohio, was sworn into the Findlay police department patrol division. Gerald Lamar Owens, Class of 2014, Washington D.C., is a self-employed community organizer. Maureen (Kurtz) Burks, MBA 2015 and Class of 2013, Findlay, Ohio, is a Financial Analyst for Kuss Filtration Inc. and loves that her chosen career path always keeps her on her toes. Maureen was married in 2016. Joshua Clark, Class of 2015, Fostoria, Ohio, wrote, “I chose Tiffin University after building a relationship with the faculty as well as familiarity with the degree programs during a military recruiting assignment. I worked with several faculty members over a period of three years as an army recruiter. During this time, I decided to finish my degree at TU.” He now works at the Shelley Company as a human resources manager. “I enjoy the challenges associated with improving the workplace and the workforce. There is always something new, whether it is a new face

or a new process. I serve the community through outreach programs at my church, where I am a member of missions and outreach committee. I have volunteered on several occasions to assist local food banks, as well as Habitat for Humanity.” Xiao Han, MBA 2015, Tiffin, Ohio, is a project manager for National Machinery. Katelinn Howell, Class of 2015, Burien, Wash., works for Sound Mental Health as a housing case manager. She wrote, “What I like best about the career path I have chosen is that I am able to help individuals involved in the criminal justice system who suffer from a mental illness, substance use disorder or co-occurring illness.” Her favorite campus memory is pledging Sigma Delta Sigma. Alisha Hoover Kessler, MBA 2015 and Class of 2012, Fostoria, Ohio, is an accountant I for The Mennel Milling Company. She wrote, “Obtaining my MBA in finance was such a life-changing decision. Attending school for an additional two years for a total of six years of college, was not something I thought I would ever do. It is something I am proud of because not many people can say they have their MBA. It really is a large accomplishment especially since I experienced many life events during my studies.” What Alisha likes most about her chosen career path is that she can apply what she learned at TU to the real world. “All the studying made the transition in my career an easy one because of all the wonderful faculty and staff at TU,” she said.

Jami Sue Opp, MCJ 2015 and Class of 2013, Tiffin, Ohio, is a case manager at Sisters in Shelter. She wrote, “I get to help empower the survivors of human trafficking through a step-by-step process to recovery.” Jami chose Tiffin University due to its reputation and curriculum. She said, “I am the proud mother of two amazing children, Myka and Malik. I love to volunteer for different organizations in our community.”

Alexandria Quast MBA 2015 and Class of 2013, Amherst, N.Y., is the owner/ operator for 9Round. She wrote, “What I like most about the career path that I have chosen is that it is a combination of my passion for fitness and business – not to mention being your own boss is pretty much the best.” Heather (Staples) Sweeney, MBA 2015, Cincinnati, Ohio, is a manager at TriHealth. Isaac Williams, Class of 2015, Tiffin, Ohio, is a police officer for the City of Findlay.

tell us about yourself ClassScene | 55

ClassScene 2010s Hanna Christine Bennett, Class of 2016, Indianapolis, Indiana, is a security analyst for Pondurance. She wrote, “I moved to Indianapolis when I received a job offer from Pondurance and then joined a group of amazing new tech professionals called the Indy X Tech Fellowship through Tech Point in Indianapolis. We do work for the community using our tech skills. I also got a corgi puppy named, Knight, who is a wonderful little love bug. I am so happy to be starting my life.” Hanna said that she picked TU because it was one of the few universities that had the major she was passionate about. Also, the size of the school and the community were major decision factors. Hanna said, “My

favorite memory was pledging with all of my lovely sisters of Alpha Iota. I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.” Cassandra Brown, Class of 2016, Upper Sandusky, Ohio, is an accountant for Marathon Petroleum Corporation. Brenda Butler, MCJ 2016, Mentor, Ohio, writes, “I have enjoyed 20+ years in law enforcement and I now enjoy having the ability to impact law enforcement through assisting the current peace officers of Ohio with the best and most appropriate training as possible through the direction and supervision of the instructors and the facility under my supervision. I chose TU for the structure of my specific degree program and the ability to complete it on my schedule and from a distance. I would not be where I

TU alum

The Rest is History Students Meet at TU & Marry at Cleveland Boys & Girls Club

Caitlyn Largent, Class of 2016, Ashburn, Va., is in graduate school at George Mason University, pursuing a master’s in counseling and development with a concentration in community agency counseling. Linda (Decker) Rohrbacher, Class of 2016, Fremont, Ohio, is a medical scribe for Retina Vitreous Associates. Lindsey Hoffert, MA 2017 and Class of 2013, Alexandria, Va., is a contractor for CSRA International.

At home, Lexus didn’t know where she was going to get her next meal, and the Boys & Girls Club always had free hot meals. The Boys & Girls Club offered her a place to get homework done and play in the gym.

1930s Orrin Lust, Class of 1936, Upper Sandusky, Ohio, passed away in November 2016, just a few days before his 100th birthday. He was a member of TU’s Dragons club since 2007.

1940s June Eloise Kuhn, Class of 1941, passed away in September 2016. Jean Snyder, Class of 1941, Tiffin, Ohio, passed away in April 2016. Jean retired from the Seneca County Department of Human Services and volunteered for many years, after retirement, at Mercy Hospital in Tiffin.

military and his leave day was set for March 1. Lexus, who is from Cleveland, and Roy, who is from Gary, Indiana, met at TU and their romance began on Valentine’s Day in 2015. She found out that Roy was great at math and asked him for help with the subject. She really did need help with the subject and as a result of Roy’s help, she passed the class and the rest is history.

Tiffin University 2017 graduate Lexus (Spence) Edwards grew up in lowincome-based apartments in a bad neighborhood in Cleveland and was involved in Boys & Girls Club.

IN MEMORIAM

am today without the love and endless support I receive from my husband.”

Mary Christine Mehling, Class of 1942, Doylestown, Pa., passed away in July 2016. Mary was a graduate of Tiffin Calvert High School, Mary Manse College, and after earning a BS degree from TU, she worked at National Machinery Co. She also served the American National Red Cross.

Russell G. Sorg, Class of 1942, Fremont, Ohio, passed away in May shortly after he and his son, Jan, were honored on April 29 at TU’s commencement (see page 17). Russell was honored as a “diamond” graduate (75 years) and Jan as a “golden” (50 years). Russell was elected to TU’s Board of Trustees in 1978 and served until 2005, when he was elected an Emeritus Trustee. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII from 1943 to 1946 and was awarded the American Campaign Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. He married Virginia in 1944 and she preceded him in death in 2013. He was secretary, treasurer and president of Fremont Kraut Company from 1961 until he retired in 1983. He had previously worked at Herbrand, Ford Motor Company in Detroit, H.J. Heinz and the Hyman Company.

Eugene Ruehle, Class of 1947, Cary, N.C., and formerly of Findlay and Columbus, Ohio, passed away in March 2016. He was a WWII U.S. Army Veteran and was employed as an accountant at Marathon Oil Company in Findlay for nearly 40 years. Gene and his wife of 68 years, Roslyn, had two sons, David and Martin. Natalie Tea, Class of 1947, passed away in 2016.

Russell and Jan Sorg

Virginia “Ginny” (Kurtz) Zahn, Class of 1945, passed away in August 2015. She will be remembered for her quick wit, her love of nature and her generosity. Ginny and her late husband, Wayne, had three children, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Lexus said her close family and all the children from the Boys & Girls Club attended the wedding. The gym was decorated, she had a bouquet and there was cake.

Later in life, she ended up volunteering for and working at the club, and serves as a role model for many of the children there.

“The wedding was awesome,” she said. “It was really beautiful.”

When she and her fiancé, Roy Edwards, who also graduated in April from TU, became engaged, they opted to have their wedding ceremony at the club in February because Roy decided to join the

Lexus moved to Fort Bragg after she graduated and they both plan to have an additional ceremony in August—a vow renewal—so family and friends can attend.

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In Memoriam | 57

R. Wayne DeMoss, Class of 1948, Phoenix, Az, passed away in September 2015. He served in the U.S. Army and worked as an accountant for Basic Inc. in Maple Grove. He and his family moved to Phoenix in 1961, and he was employed as a staff market research analyst at Motorola for 30 years. After retiring from Motorola, he worked in real estate and managed his real estate properties.

IN MEMORIAM 1940s

1960s

2000s

Roger Welter, Class of 1960, Tiffin, Ohio, passed away in December 2016.

SportsScene

J. Michael Foos, Class of 1961, passed away in November 2016.

Francis “Paunch” Gaietto, Class of 1949, Tiffin, Ohio, passed away in September 2015. He was married to his wife, Betty, for 65 years. Paunch and Betty had two sons, one daughter, nine grandchildren and 12 greatgrandchildren. He was an accountant at Union Carbide, co-owner of Gaietto’s Market, and retired from Lawson Milk Co. in 1982 and from the U.S. Postal Service in 1996.

1950s

Kenneth F. Ward, Class of 1951, Tiffin, Ohio passed away at the age of 90 in October 2016.

Karen Jean Ostermyer Grey, Class of 1961, passed away in January 2016. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Karen was involved in card clubs, was a talented seamstress, enjoyed movies, her weekly hair appointments and various other crafts and social events. She and her husband, Ervin, had two children, Kay and Kevin, and three grandchildren.

Eugene “Gene” Koby, Class of 1965, Sandusky, Ohio, passed away in July 2015. Gene was a veteran of the U.S. Army and proudly served his country from 1961 to 1963. He was employed as an accountant at Welty, Dieter and Wiechel C.P.A. and later founded Koby and Co. C.P.A. He retired in 2015. Gene was the founding treasurer of the Erie County Foundation, and remained so up to his passing. He was very active in the community, serving as past commodore of the Sandusky Sailing Club, past commodore of the Sandusky Yacht Club, past president of the Sandusky Rotary Club, treasurer of the Huron Investment Club, past secretary of Rotary District 6600 MESA, past president of the Firelands Chapter of C.P.A’s, current Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister and a member of the Sandusky Knights of Columbus. In his spare time, Gene enjoyed reading, traveling throughout the U.S. and Europe, gardening and spending time with his family. He married his wife, Marilyn, in October 1974. Gene and Marilyn donated to Tiffin University’s annual fund for 49 years. Alton Emerine, Class of 1966, passed away in October 2015.

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Marius Georgescu, EMBA 2012, Bucharest, Romania, passed away in July 2015 as a result of an auto accident. Marius worked for Microsoft Corp. in Romania, and was selected to head the new cloud computing department within the company. Marius became the face of Microsoft in Romania and throughout the region for this new initiative. As a TU student, he was a generous and engaged colleague. His positive attitude was contagious, and his cohort and faculty remember him as someone with a ready smile and a kind word for all. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Laura Mihaela Georgescu, and two children ages 5 and 8.

Student

Wyatt Schalk, Bellevue, Ohio, age 22, passed away in April as a result of an auto accident. A psychology major, Wyatt started at TU in the fall of 2014 and was heavily involved in TU’s Music Department.

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Women’s Cross Country

Women’s Soccer

Volleyball

Women’s Basketball

The Tiffin University women’s crosscountry team finished 15th in the GLIAC and 29th in the region in 2016. The Dragons’ top finish occurred on October 8, at the Fast Cats Classic, finishing 5th of 14 teams. Another high mark for the Dragons came on September 2, at the Northwestern Ohio Meet, placing 6th.

The women’s soccer team finished the 2016 regular season 3-15. Of the three wins, two were thrilling overtime victories, including defeating the University of Findlay 2-1 in double overtime. Adrianna Currie led the Dragons in points, assists, and goals in 2016. For her efforts, she was an All-GLIAC Honorable Mention selection.

The Tiffin Jenna University Huffman volleyball team wrapped up 2016 with a 19-12 record, and a 9-8 GLIAC mark. The 19 wins were the most in a decade, and was the most since Tiffin made the jump to NCAA competition. Tiffin had three All-GLIAC selections, with Jenna Huffman being a 1st team All-GLIAC selection and Blocker of the Year. Taylor Lattimore was a 2nd team selection and she was also named Libero of the Year. For the first time in 23 years, the Dragons had two players earn All-Region honors. Lattimore and Huffman were selected to the D2CCA All-Region team.

It was tough sledding for the Dragons’ in 2016-17, winning only six games overall and four GLIAC games. On November 17, Tiffin defeated Cedarville University 70-63, their first of the season, and Bre Nauman surpassed 1,000 career points. Nauman ranks as one of the best players in Tiffin women’s basketball history, scoring 1,262 points and grabbing 774 rebounds, ranking 6th and 3rd respectively.

Men’s Cross Country The men’s cross-country team took 12th place at the GLIAC Championships, and 29th at Regionals. James Ngandu was the standout for Tiffin in 2016, winning seven straight races, including his second straight GLIAC Championship, and the Midwest Region Championship. Ngandu was the Midwest Region Athlete of the Year, NCAA National Athlete of the Week, and was named a 2016 NCAA AllAmerican by the USTFCCCA.

Men’s Soccer The winning tradition Andre that the CarvalhoTiffin Landell University men’s soccer team has established over the decades continued in 2016 with a 14-5-2 record and an 11-42 GLIAC mark. Tiffin qualified for the GLIAC Tournament, and took home the title with a 2-1 win over Saginaw Valley State. The Dragons were selected to the NCAA Regionals, and were defeated in the first round by Drury 2-1. The Dragons had six All-GLIAC selections, including Andre Carvalho-Landell being named GLIAC Offensive Player of the Year. Carvalho-Landell was also named Regional Player of the Year, and AllAmerican status.

Football The Dragons made leaps and bounds forward in 2016, posting an 8-3 overall record and 7-3 GLIAC mark. The eight Antonio wins are Pipkin the most in a decade for Tiffin, and the seven GLIAC wins are the most ever for the Dragons. The high point for the Dragons came on the first Saturday in October against #4 Ashland University. Tiffin took down the nationally ranked Eagles, 35-32, the biggest upset in Tiffin history. TU had a record 11 All-GLIAC selections, including Head Coach Gary Goff being named GLIAC Coach of the Year. Senior quarterback Antonio Pipkin was named GLIAC Player of the Year, selected to participate in the Reese’s Senior Bowl, and was signed by the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent. Charles Holland and Pipkin were both Don Hansen Super Region 4 selections, and the pair were named Don Hansen NCAA Division II All-Americans.

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❆ Winter Men’s Basketball The 2016-17 season had its ups and downs for Tiffin, at one point winning 5 of 6 games to open January before finishing 11-17 overall, 6-14 in the GLIAC. The biggest win in program history came on December 10, defeating the #1 team in the nation. Tiffin dropped Saginaw Valley State University 82-76, handing the Cardinals their first loss of the season. In the same game, Khaleal McCormick eclipsed the 1,000-point barrier, becoming the 30th player to do so since 1939. One new addition that made a huge impact for the Dragons was Austin Adams, leading Tiffin in points per game and rebounds per game. Adams was Tiffin’s lone AllGLIAC selection, earning a 2nd team citation.

Swimming and Diving The Tiffin University swimming and diving team made improvements throughout the year, with the men’s team taking 5th at the GLIAC Championships and the women’s team taking 7th. The men’s team had five All-GLIAC swimmers, and the women’s team had one swimmer selected. The women’s team sent a pair of athletes, Morgan Dunleavy and Anastasiia Kvitchenko, to the NCAA National Swimming and Diving Championships. Dunleavy finished 12th in the 1-meter dive and 22nd in the 3-meter dive. Kvitchenko took 29th in the 200 butterfly.

Garrett Gray

Championships. Gray kept the train rolling at nationals, winning the NCAA National Championship at 285 pounds, the first in Tiffin wrestling history.

Men’s Indoor Track & Field The Dragons entered 2017 knowing they were at the top of the heap in the NCAA National rankings. The Dragons thrived on the pressure, entering the GLIAC Indoor Track & Field Championships as one of the favorites. Tiffin had never won a GLIAC Championship, but that was about to change in 2017. The Dragons ran away with the title, scoring 166.5 points, holding a 37-point lead over 2nd place Grand Valley State. Tiffin had 14 AllGLIAC selections, including Coach Jeremy Croy winning GLIAC Coach of the Year. Tiffin rolled towards the NCAA Championship, and they were as hot as any team in the nation. The Dragons defended their NCAA Division II title, scoring 63 team points to defeat Ashland by 11 points. Tiffin had nine 1st team AllAmericans from the men’s side. Coy Blair won the individual national championship in the weight throw and the shot put, and Marquise Corbett won the national championship in the long jump.

Women’s Indoor Track & Field

Wrestling It was a year of firsts for the Tiffin University wrestling program, as the Dragons finished 3-0 in the GLIAC, earning their first GLIAC title in program history. Head Coach Joey Simcoe was selected as the GLIAC’s Coach of the Year, and Tiffin had six athletes earn conference accolades. At the NCAA Regional Tournament, Garrett Gray won his third consecutive Midwest Regional title. Tiffin had five grapplers qualify for the NCAA National

The women’s indoor track & field team finished 7th at the GLIAC Championships, scoring 43 points. The women’s team had three All-GLIAC selections, with Adaysha Parker and Mary Boyden taking 2nd team honors. Tiffin sent two athletes to the NCAA National Championships and Mary Boyden earned a 1st team All-American selection with an 8th place finish in the shot put.

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✿ Spring Men’s Golf The Dragons have been one of the most consistent programs on campus, winning back-to-back GLIAC titles. That streak came to an end in 2017, as the Dragons took 3rd place. Tiffin did qualify for regional play for the 6th straight season, finishing 10th. Jay and Brett Green garnered postseason awards for Tiffin, earning an honorable mention citation.

Women’s Golf The Tiffin University women’s golf team started their season with a 3rd place finish in September. The Dragons continued to make strides throughout the season, earning three 5th place finishes along the way. At the GLIAC Championships, the Dragons finished 7th of 12 teams.

Baseball The Tiffin University baseball team took the program to new heights, winning a program record 32 games. Tiffin’s season stepped on the gas in April, winning 14 of 21 games, and 6 of 9 games in May. The Dragons’ 3rd place finish is the best in school history, and their trip to the GLIAC Tournament was only the 3rd ever for Tiffin. In the tournament, the Dragons defeated three ranked Midwest Region teams, dropping Walsh in the opening round, and then Grand Valley State twice to advance to the GLIAC Championship game. The Dragons fell 8-4 in the title game to the top seeded Northwood Timberwolves. Michael Boswell was named GLIAC Pitcher of the Year, being the first Tiffin player to ever win the award. Tiffin had four All-GLIAC selections, and two AllTournament selections.

Softball The Dragons softball team had a down year, finishing 21-28 overall. Head Coach Jeff Nickerson won the 400th game of his career, earning a 3-2 win in 11 innings over Wayne State. In his time at Tiffin, Coach Nickerson has won 239 games. Tiffin had three athletes earn postseason honors, as Kimmy Reynolds was a 1st team All-GLIAC selection with a 2.03 earned run average. Jamie Sevenish and Libby Crow led Tiffin’s offense, which earned both an honorable mention selection.

Women’s Lacrosse

for regional play for the fourth straight year, falling in the first round of play. Tiffin finished the year ranked 37th in the nation, and Caroline Nelhage was also 37th individually. She was the only GLIAC player appearing in the top 50. The Dragons earned numerous postseason awards, with Nelhage earning GLIAC Player of the Year. Tiffin had four others earn All-GLIAC selections. At the ITA All-Region honors, the Dragons were well represented, with Conley earning Coach of the Year, Nelhage was ITA Senior Player of the Year, Aimee Kaye was Most Improved Player of the Year, and Valentina Mazzola was Assistant Coach of the Year.

Men’s Tennis

Tiffin tied a program record with 12 wins in 2017, Randi finishing Castner 5-2 in GLIAC play. The Dragons were participants in the GLIAC Tournament once again, winning their quarterfinal game against Lake Erie 17-7. In the semifinals, the Dragons fell 12-9 to Grand Valley State. Tiffin’s Elle Hamilton was named GLIAC Freshman of the Year, and six others were recognized as All-GLIAC performers. Caroline Nelhage

Women’s Tennis Tiffin kept rolling along in 2017, posting a 19-4 overall record and a 10-1 GLIAC mark that was good enough for 2nd place. The women’s tennis team qualified

The men’s tennis team made huge strides under 8th year coach, Phil Conley. Tiffin took 3rd in the GLIAC, winning 16 matches overall and six in GLIAC play. Coach Conley was honored for his work with the GLIAC Coach of the Year award. Luis Ludena earned a 2nd team selection, and Sorin Navrotchi earned an honorable mention honor.

Men’s Outdoor Track and Field Like the indoor team, the men’s indoor track and field team kept Marquise the train Corbett moving, winning the Montevallo Invite on March 25. A week later, Tiffin took the top spot at the April Fool’s Invite and steamrolled to the GLIAC Championships with the goal of winning an outdoor title. The Dragons came up just short of sweeping the GLIAC Indoor and Outdoor title, taking 2nd place in the outdoor meet. Tiffin had 16 athletes earn All-GLIAC honors, with James Ngandu being named Athlete of the Meet and Athlete of the Year, Cameron Burrows earning Freshman Athlete of the Meet, and 62 | SportsScene

Coy Blair being named Field Athlete of the Year. The Dragons qualified 15 athletes for the NCAA Outdoor Nationals, and had 13 athletes earn USTFCCCA All-Region Honors. James Ngandu was named Region Track Athlete of the Year, and Coy Blair was named Region Field Athlete of the Year.

Women’s Outdoor Track and Field The Tiffin University women’s outdoor track and field team took another step forward in 2017, jumping up another spot at the GLIAC Championships. In 2016, the women’s team finished 5th, and moved to 4th in 2017 with 74 team points. Tiffin had two 1st team All-GLIAC recipients, as Deborah Brodersen won the GLIAC title in the Heptathlon, and the 4x100 team also earned 1st team All-GLIAC honors. The Dragons had three athletes earn 3rd team All-GLIAC honors. The women’s team had six athletes earn USTFCCCA All-Region honors, and Mary Boyden and Miranda Mondozzi qualified for the NCAA Outdoor Nationals.

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s 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 for 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 Mitchell Blonde, vice president for institutional advancement, at 419.448.3282 or email blondemp@tiffin.edu Tiffin University Charitable Gift Annuity can:

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GoTiffinDragons Front Row point. click.

Tiffin University and PrestoSports are proud to announce the debut of the GoTiffinDragons Front Row mobile app, the latest collaboration between the university and the web design company. GoTiffinDragons Front Row gives fans access to score updates, statistics and game recaps. Receive breaking news, scores and alerts by signing up for notifications. Fans click the notifications button on the more tab to enable the alerts and set your sport preferences.

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