Challenge Magazine

Challenge The Magazine of TifďŹ n University > Winter 07|08

Homecoming 2007 TU Shines Among Peer Colleges with Total Academic Experience

V\gl bY Tiffin

Shines

Both institutions have seen remarkable growth in the past several years, with increasing enrollments and expanding campuses. New projects being considered are the development of a recreation center on the campus of Tiffin University. The site for the project will be a former salvage yard that is being cleaned up with funds through the Ohio Department of Development. Heidelberg also is planning to construct a similar facility on its campus.

Because of the impact the universities have on the overall economy,

C i t y o f T i ffi n Rated A mong 1 00 Be st Small Towns in A mer ic a

planning is underway to identify ways the community can leverage the strengths of the colleges. Corridors are being planned that will connect the downtown area to the campuses with improved landscapes, retail, housing and entertainment.

Tiffin has been recognized as one of the “100 Best Small Towns In America,” by Site Selection Magazine. A 2007 survey of Micro-

Again leveraging the universities, plans are being discussed that

politan Areas in the United States conducted by Policom Corp., Palm

would lead to an entrepreneurial center that would help to develop

City, Fla., shows Tiffin’s economy ranks in the 62nd percentile na-

the local and regional business talent that already exists or may

tionally and in the top 10 of Ohio among cities of similar size.

consider starting new business ventures.

Mercy Hospital is in the process of de-

This past year, Tiffin was successful in

veloping a new $65 million medical

acquiring funding through the Depart-

campus in Tiffin. This development in

ment of Development’s Rural Develop-

conjunction with another $7 million

ment grant and loan program to con-

medical facility, VH1, and a new $8.5

struct a new $1.6 million facility that is

million Super Wal-Mart, all in the west

the new home of a new manufacturer to

end area of Tiffin, is spurring further de-

the community, PPC Insulators. It joins a

velopment in the retail sector.

growing list of companies, foreign and domestic, that have been attracted to

The city of Tiffin will be making a sig-

Tiffin in the past decade.

nificant investment in constructing a new connector road between SR 18 and

Like many communities in the Midwest,

US 224 and using another development

Tiffin has challenges that need to be

tool, tax increment financing, to help

answered. And many of the answers to

open land along the west end for fu-

our challenges will be found in chang-

ture commercial development. The city

ing the way we look at ourselves and

already is seeing increased activity from

how we do things.

developers looking to acquire land and create new retail opportunities brought

The underlying strength is here. It is up

about by the large financial investment

to us to bring about the future we envi-

that is taking place.

sion. As Norman Vincent Peale said, “We tend to get what we expect.”

The city of Tiffin has an economy that is very diverse with manufacturing, education, medicine, retail, construction, mining and agriculture forming the bulk of the employment opportunities. The diversity in the economy is underscored by the

This article is based on a column which was written by Rich Focht,

advantage of having two four-year universities, Tiffin University and

President and CEO of the Seneca Industrial and Economic Develop-

Heidelberg College, located within the city boundaries. This diver-

ment Corporation, that appeared in The Advertiser-Tribune.

sity of employment provides many skilled workers who create a very positive economic influence on the region.

2

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

EDITOR’S NOTE Dear Alumni and Friends: Real Connections. Real Results. That is what you will find in the pages that follow.

Challenge Magazine allows you an opportunity to review and for us to

g[\f \ffhX

Challenge

record what has occurred in the past 6 months and in this issue, you will

WINTER 07|08 The Magazine of Tiffin University

examine a positive force of brave and memorable alumni, record-breaking enrollment, outstanding results, and

Cover: Sophomore Lindsay Morris

challenging plans for our next reaccreditation to take place in 2009.

In the meantime, what is new with

> National Survey of Student Engagement, p4

you? We are sincerely interested in your story and your photo-

>

graphs to be included in ClassScene. Why not take the time to

>

Jobs, promotions, awards, recognitions,

much are you enjoying your retirement! A favorite part of my job as TU each day through our website at www.tiffin.edu or email

13

Tric k or Tr eat

marriages, births, vacations, hobbies, volunteer work or exactly how Editor is hearing from you. You have an opportunity to connect with

7

C am pusS c ene

tell us what you have been up to or what do you remember most about your TU days.

4

National S ur v ey of Student Engagement ( NS S E)

Trick or Treat, p13

>

>

lwilliam@tiffin.edu.

18

W ho’ s W ho and What They Do

20

I nc r ease in Enr ollment Success at Tiffin University continues.

We continue to grow,

>

change, and provide opportunities for students to succeed. See for yourself in the pages ahead.

> Increase in Enrollment, p20

Lisa W. Williams

24

Homec oming

Editor, Executive Director of Media Relations & Publications

28

Writing C ontest

>

30

R e-Ac c r edition Pr oc e s s Begins SEND NEWS, OLD OR NEW, TO CHALLENGE MAGAZINE. Mail: Lisa Williams, 155 Miami Street, Tiffin, Oho 44883 Call for interview appointment or story idea: 419.448.3444 Email: lwilliam@tiffin.edu Website: www.tiffin.edu CREDITS Photography: Lisa Williams Contributing Writers: Geoff Schutt, Elaine Ocker Graphic Designer: Mary Ann Stearns

Correction: to

Our

>

32

Grad Working in I raq

>

34

Alum niS c ene Homecoming, p24

>

36

C lassS c ene

>

apologies

39

I nM emoriam

Don Bero for being named

40

incorrectly in the last issue of

>

Challenge. Don has been a long-

Hall of F ame

time friend and donor of the University and we deeply regret

Grad Working in Iraq, p32

>

43

S por tsS c ene

the error.

President’s Club Dinner 2007 Don Bero with Martin Koop

If this issue of Challenge Magazine is addressed to someone in your household who has moved, please notify the Alumni office by calling 419.448.3323 or email KoehlerS@tiffin.edu. www.tiffin.edu

>

3

TU shines >

2007 NSSE

T iffin U nive rsity Shine s Am o ng Pe e r Co l lege s W i t h To tal Ac ade m ic Expe rie nc e . Mo re th a n 20 0 r a n do m l y se l e cte d T i ffi n Un i ve rsi ty stu de n ts pa r ti ci pa t ed i n t h e 2007 Natio nal Sur ve y o f Stude nt Engage m ent ( NS S E) .

In a re ce n tl y re l e a se d NSSE “E xe cu ti ve Sna ps h o t ,” TU sh i n e s a m o n g pe e r i n sti tu ti o n s, e spe ci a l l y wi t h “ h i g h i m pa ct” e du ca ti o n a l a cti vi ti e s, a cco rdi n g to Dr. Ter es a Sh a fe r, De a n o f Asse ssm e n t a n d Accre dit a t i o n a n d Pro fe sso r o f So ci o l o g y.

National Survey bY fghWXag XaZTZX`Xag The NS S E is the r ec ogniz ed benc hm ark f or assessing the extent

to whic h c olleges and univ ersities ef f ec tiv ely engage s tudents in

their educ ation. Ac c or ding to the NS S E, r esults f r o m the s ur vey

“ c an pr ov ide pr ospec tiv e students with insights into how they

might lear n and dev elop at any giv en c ollege. ” 4

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

The survey focuses on five areas: N

Level of academic challenge

N

Active and collaborative learning

N

Student-faculty interaction

N

Enriching educational experiences

N

Supportive campus environment

TU was one of 610 colleges and universities in the U.S. that took part in the 2007 NSSE, and the results demonstrate that Tiffin

[\Z[ \`cTVg TVg\i\g\Xf Xae\V[ XWhVTg\baT_ XkcXe\XaVX

University is living up to its brand promise of “Real Connections, Real Results.”

“In addition to providing annual comparative data, the creators

Make it possible for every student to participate in at least two

of NSSE have discovered that taking part in certain activities

high-impact activities, one in the first year, and one later related

during college boosts students’ performance in many areas, such

to their major field.” Such experiences will better prepare students

as thinking critically, solving real world problems, and working

for a productive, satisfying lifetime of continuous learning.”

effectively with others,” Shafer says. “These ‘high-impact’ educational activities include learning communities, undergraduate

Student participants in the 2007 NSSE had the opportunity to

research, study abroad, internships, and capstone courses.”

make personal comments and observations about their educational experience at Tiffin University. One TU student remarked,

She adds, “Tiffin University is as good or better in each of the

“Going to a smaller private school like Tiffin was a very big

‘high-impact’ educational areas compared with colleges and

advantage for me. It gave me a chance to get to know everyone

universities within our peer group. Efforts will continue to increase

– students, faculty and staff. By doing so, I was more comforable

the number and types of ‘high-impact’ experiences available to

in the environment and it was easier to learn. I knew that no

students and to encourage their participation.”

matter what I needed, my professors were always there to help me in a timely and attentive manner. The faculty and staff genuinely

According to George Kuh, NSSE Director, “A common question from

care about each individual, being sure that everyone who comes

NSSE users is, ‘What is the one thing we should do to increase

out of Tiffin University will succeed out in the real world.”

student engagement and success on our campus?’ Our answer:

www.tiffin.edu

>

5

TU shines >

2007 NSSE

All TU students currently have had capstone courses or experiences and many have participated in required internships or field experiences for several years, according to Shafer. Additionally, the F.J. Miller Society, begun in fall 2005, supports a living and learning community in Miller Hall for students in the Honors and Leadership programs. All three academic schools support independent student research as well as collaborative research among students and faculty.

Below is a comparison of the percentage of students who took part in “high-impact” experiences at TU compared to students at other institutions participating in the 2007 NSSE.

% of Students Participating in a High-Impact Educational Practice FRESHMAN

12

Learning Communities

12 16 17

SENIOR

21

Research with Faculty

19

Professor Tom Newcomb

17

The NSSE compiles its results into a Pocket Guide to

19

Choosing a College, which offers both students and their parents key questions to ask during campus visits, and input from current

SENIOR Study Abroad

11

students. Tiffin University’s Pocket Guide can be accessed at

9

http://www.tiffin.edu/about/ataglance/research/nsse/NSSE07_ Pocket_Guide_Report_Tiffin_University_.pdf

11 14

More about the NSSE: The National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) s tudies

SENIOR

c olleges and u niversities across the nation, and is designed to

46

Culminating Senior Experiences

identify student participation in programs and activities that will

35

benefit both the students’ learning and personal development.

30 32 0

10

20

30

The 40

50

NSSE

was

launched

with

support

from

The

Pew

Charitable Trusts, and is now self-supported through institutional participation fees. Project research is also supported by grants from Lumina Foundation for Education and The Center for Inquiry in the

Tiffin University

Selected Peers

Carneige Peers

NSSE

Liberal Arts at Wabash College.

The surveys are administered through the Indiana University Center for Postsecondary Research, in cooperation with the Indiana University Center for Survey Research.

More information about the NSSE is available through its website at http://nsse.iub.edu.

6

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

what’s happening >

CampusScene

“Women’s Work”

Grant Received

F ir s t e x h i b i t i t i on of th e 2007-2008 Se a so n

sity as a recipient of the Jenzabar Founda-

Leslie Rohr Scherer’s “Woman’s Work,” a diverse selection of pastels and drawings

tion Grant, according to Marisa Brown, TU’s

opened Tiffin University’s 2007-2008 Diane Kidd Gallery season.

Technical Support Specialist. Brown suc-

Jenzabar,

Tiffin

University’s

online

education partner, named Tiffin Univer-

cessfully completed a survey in the spring that assessed institutional reactions and perceptions of Jenzabar platforms which are currently in place at Tiffin University.

Ode to Robert Frost

Technical Support Specialist Marisa Brown presents grant check to Student Government members.

Tiffin University was one of 50 institutions chosen out of 1300 to complete the survey.

Designed to be awarded to a

student-based club or organization on Awaiting the Plow

campus, Brown chose Tiffin University Student Government’s “Adopt a Family Project.”

Every year, Tiffin University Student Government teams up with the Seneca County Salvation Army to adopt a family for the Holidays. Student Government

From the playful “Sunnyvale Home for Wayward Ewes” to the touching and poetic “Ode to Robert Frost,” Scherer’s work conveyed both an immediate familiarity and offered plenty for viewers to discover and make their own personal connection as they took a closer look. Among the other works in the show were “Farm Market,” “Lininger’s Bridge,” and “Awaiting the Plow.”

This was the first exhibition for Scherer, who says she knew early in life that art was her passion. After only two years of high school art, she was accepted into the prestigious Cleveland Institute of Art. She later moved to Tiffin, where she earned a degree in art and French from Heidelberg College. She said the title of her show came from the worn-out stereotype of generations past that a woman’s work was in the home, or in more traditional jobs such as teaching. Though Scherer became a teacher,

members spend a weekend afternoon shopping, and wrapping gifts for the adopted family. “We generally purchase functional as well as fun and entertaining gifts for the family,” says Kade Ross, Student Government President. “In past years, we have chosen families that have a smaller chance of being adopted due to the large number of family members. This year, with the help of the Jenzabar Grant, we will be adopting an additional and deserving family,” Ross said.

art remained her calling. www.tiffin.edu

>

7

CampusScene

what’s happening >

This & That Finding Forrester

and Associate Professor of English and

TU Professor Vincent Moore moderated

Humanities.

a discussion of the film, Finding Forrester, during the first Tiffin University Arts &

“By

presenting

these

compelling

Angles Program in September. The event

programs, we’ve been able to generate

included a screening of the film that was

some extraordinary discussions,” she adds.

in

“We hope to entertain as well as educate.

2000 which

During this year’s Arts & Angles programs,

stars

Sean

we’ve purposely designed them so they

Connery and

complement current class offerings at

Rob

Tiffin University.”

released

Brown.

Anthem Sung at Cleveland Indians Game “I’ve never been that nervous before in my life,” said Tiffin University freshman Jack Pohl. Pohl and the other six members of TU’s a cappella group, Up In The Air, sang the national anthem before a crowd of more than 40,000 Indians fans at Jacobs Field. “It’s quite a thrill to

Brown plays a

teenager,

Jamal

Wal-

lace,

who

is

Building Leaders for Tomorrow

accepted

Gene Smith, director of athletics of The

into a presti-

Ohio State University, presented Build-

gious private high school. Along the way,

ing Leaders for Tomorrow during TU’s first

he befriends a reclusive writer, William

Good Morning World breakfast lecture

Forrester, played by Connery.

“Finding

series of the season. Mr. Smith is in his

Forrester is a film about the creative pro-

third year as director of athletics at The

cess as well as about the courage to cre-

Ohio

ate and to follow one’s dream,” remarks

U n i v e r s i t y.

Dr. Moore. “The discussion following the

He

is

the

film examined the issues of creativity,

eighth

per-

friendship, and what it means to be an

son to hold

artist.”

the position

State

at Ohio State About Arts &

and the first

Angles

African-

“The Arts &

American

Angles series has been

to do so. He

always

previously served as director of athletics

about

at Arizona State, Iowa State, and Eastern

appealing

Michigan Universities, and is entering his

both to our

23rd year in the role. At Ohio State, the

student pop-

51-year old Smith oversees one of the

ulation at Tif-

nation’s largest and most successful col-

fin University

lege athletic programs. The department of

and to the general public in the Tiffin and

athletics is completely self supporting and

surrounding communities with a wide

receives no university funds or tax dollars

Up In The Air performed an original arrangement of the anthem to preserve the traditional feeling of the song while adding some interesting musical twists.

This particular Indians game was a special one, in that it was both the last home game of the season, and the win that clinched the American League Central division title for the Tribe. The Jacobs Field performance was the first in an academic year that will include a long list of appearances by the group.

Last year’s schedule included nearly sixty performances at schools, clubs, community events and charity functions all over Ohio and in Michigan. “I expect this year we will perform perhaps as many as 70 times, which would be a record for the group,” said Rees.

or moderators,” says Miriam Fankhauser,

This year will also bring the release of a new CD under Tiffin University’s new record label. Up In The Air will also record yet another disc, its fifth, in the school’s new recording facilities. Details about the group, as well as audio clips, photos and booking information can be found at

Dean of TU’s School of Arts and Sciences

www.upintheair.us.

range of interesting topics and speakers

8

be out there in front of all those people,” said Brad Rees, the group’s director and TU’s Director of Performing Arts.

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

Criminal Justice Career Fair Tiffin University hosted the annual Ohio Council of Criminal Justice Education (OCCJE) Career Fair in October.

The fair, held in The Gillmor

Student Center gymnasium, was a huge success.

Gildner author

Representatives from federal, state and local agencies were available to discuss career and internship opportunities. “We were very excited to host the OCCJE Career Fair,” said Dr. Steven Hur-

Award-Winning Author Visits TU

witz, Professor of Psychology and Criminal Justice

An award-winning poet and fiction writer, Gary Gildner, visited Tiffin University and

everyone ranging from college students and re-

at Tiffin University and Vice President of OCCJE. “We compiled an impressive array of criminal justice agencies. In addition to the law enforcement and corrections fields, there were organizations representing the areas of homeland security and mental health. This was a great opportunity for cent graduates looking for entry level positions

gave a free public reading of his work in October. The visit to Tiffin coincided with the publication date of the author’s latest book, Cleaning a Rainbow. He met with

to criminal justice professionals who are seeking new opportunities for advancement in the field to gather information and network with a wide array

several TU classes to discuss the writing process. Gildner was born in West Branch,

of professionals under one roof.”

Michigan. He is best known for his works of poetry, including Letters from Vicksburg As part of the OCCJE Career Fair, Carol McDan(1977), Blue Like the Heavens (1984), Clackama: Poems (1991), and The Bunker in

nell, Director of Career Development at Tiffin Uni-

Parsley Fields (1997), which won the 1996 Iowa Poetry Prize. He has also written two

versity, conducted workshops on resumes and professional portfolios.

novels, a collection of short stories, and a memoir, The Warsaw Sparks (1990), which he wrote while he was a Fulbright Lecturer at the University of Warsaw

Immediately following

the OCCJE Career Fair, the Washington D. C. Metropolitan Police Department offered a civil service exam. Additional information about OCCJE

and coach of the city’s baseball team. He currently lives on a ranch in Idaho’s

can be found at http://www.occje.org

Clearwater Mountains

BLACK SWAMP COLLEGE FAIR In October, TU hosted the Black Swamp Area College Fair.

The Gillmor

Student Center Gymnasium was overflowing with high school students, family and friends.

What is a college fair? A college fair allows prospective students a chance to meet with multiple college representatives in one location. Students can get printed materials about many schools and talk to admissions representatives. A college fair is a great way for parents to learn about college admissions and the financial aid process. More than 60 colleges were represented.

www.tiffin.edu

>

9

what’s happening >

CampusScene

jX_Vb`\aZ New International

Dennis Kroeze and President Marion

Students

I n te r n a t i o n a l s tu d e n ts n e w to TU pr esent ed t he flag

o f th ei r cou n t r y to Pr e si d e n t Ma ri on and t he cer em ony

included a special per for mance by the Tif fin University Choir,

a n d a C h i ne s e stu d e n t p l a y i n g p i a no.

Qiuzi Hu

Zhao Yin 10

CHALLENGE

Jaime Thompson >

Winter 07|08

Jing Weng

Dr. Teresa Shafer, Dean of Assessment

“Buying the War”

and Accreditation at Tiffin University,

B i l l Moye r s’ Do cum e nta r y

TU Dean Attended Har vard Seminar

was invited to attend the Performance Assessment in Higher Education Semi-

Dr. Colleen Vallo moderated the Arts & Angles program in October, which featured Bill

nar at the Harvard Graduate School of

Moyers’ documentary, Buying the War. Dr. Vallo set the scene for the Moyers’ docu-

Education in November.

The seminar

mentary, and the discussion that followed. “More than four years have passed since

brought together Harvard faculty and

the United States invaded Iraq. In the months before the invasion, the media largely

leading practitioners to examine the

passed along the Bush Administration’s reasons for going to war, without examining the

current state of performance assessment

Administration’s claims that Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction and

and identify practical approaches to

had links to 9-11 and the terrorist organization Al-Quaida, which have now been shown to be false,” she explained. In the documentary

generate useful performance data.

“Buying the War,” journalist Bill Moyers looks at why the mainstream press chose passivity over The program explored how data

skepticism and scrutiny, as well as the reasons

can be effectively used to create

why the press has abandoned its independence

greater transparency in the teaching/

and long-standing role as the watchdog of govern-

learning process.

ment.

“This is why the investigative reporting of three

In addition to her assessment duties,

Washington reporters for the former Knight-Ridder

Shafer also teaches each semester as a Professor of Sociology.

news chain went unnoticed after it published sto-

She serves

ries disputing the Bush Administration’s evidence

the local education community as Vice

for war,” Vallo adds. “The documentary is valu-

President of the Buckeye Central School District’s Board of Education.

“As a

parent and a school board member, I’m aware of the struggles our K-12 partners are dealing with in graduating students

able in that it shows how the press presented its Colleen Vallo

stories to the public—often in a way that seemed

like an endorsement for war,” Vallo says. “’Buying the War’ is a timely examination of how the press covers important issues facing the nation, especially in light of the Bush Administration’s current efforts to extend military actions into Iran.”

ready to compete at the college level.

Assessment takes place at all levels of education: K-12 works with the OGT exams and state report cards, and colleges

GO GREEN Shir ts for Charity Tiffin University’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) sold “GO GREEN”

and

universities

shirts in support of all TU athletics and all proceeds benefited the Make-A-Wish

work

Foundation.

with

various others instrument.

The

key

is

for all of us to do our absolute best to improve the competition level of

Continuing its long-standing commitment to philanthropy, the NCAA Division II has established a partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a global charity that grants the wishes of children with life threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy.

our graduates.”

Teresa Shafer

www.tiffin.edu

>

11

what’s happening >

CampusScene “Before the Music Dies” In November, TU’s Arts & Angles series featured Brad Rees, Director of Performing Arts, who moderated an event that offered an insider’s look at the music business, and featured special guest Adam McInnis, a noted singer/songwriter.

The

program

in-

cluded a screening of the award-winning documentary, “Before the Music Michael Spragg

Larry Adelsperger

Dies,” at the Ritz

TU Names Two New Trustees

Theatre.

Tiffin University has elected Michael Spragg and Larry Adelsperger to its Board

the music indus-

of Trustees according to Gary Heminger, Chair.

try with the audience. An Austin, Texas native,

As part

of the screening, singer-songwriter McInnis hand

to

was

on

discuss

his experience in Adam McInnis

McInnis was featured in the ABC television show, According to Tiffin University President Paul Marion, “Mike Spragg and Larry

“The One: The Making of a Music Star,” and is

Adelsperger are wonderful additions to our Board of Trustees. In addition to

currently touring the country in conjunction with

their career achievements, they have made many positive contributions to their

“Before the Music Dies.” He also gave a free

communities.”

concert on the TU campus in The Gillmor Student Center which offered a mixture of alterna-

Larry Adelsperger is Executive Vice President of P.T. Services Rehabilitation, Inc., a Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy and Athletic Training service provider in northern and central Ohio. He is also President of an agricultural operation in Seneca County.

tive, rock, pop & soul, showcasing timeless songwriting and his captivating voice. McInnis’ music can be heard at http://www.myspace.com/adammcinnis1.

“I hope to be able to help enhance the impressive growth of Tiffin University through my responsibilities as a trustee,” said Adelsperger. “TU is in the fast lane, and I am proud to be a part of it.”

Michael Spragg was named President and CEO of The Old Fort Banking Company this year. He has also been appointed as a member of the Board of Directors for The Old Fort Banking Company and its holding company, Gillmor Financial Services, Inc. He was most recently employed as the District President, Northern District and Executive Vice President of Commercial Lending of Sky Bank, where he had been employed since 1998. Prior to Sky Bank, Mike Spragg was employed as the President and CEO of Peoples Banking Company, Findlay, Ohio.

“TU has done a tremendous job as a smaller University in achieving the comparable educational accomplishments of larger schools,” says Michael Spragg. “I hope to be able to help enhance this impressive growth through my responsibilities as a trustee.”

12

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

Dragon’s Den Players Love Letters The

Dragon’s

Den

Players

Theatre

Group

presented the work of A.R. Gurney’s, Love Letters, in November. The play chronicles the relationship of two lifelong friends through letters they have written to each other since childhood, according to Dr. Mary Grennen, Assistant Professor of English. “The letters unravel the details of their intimate but often acrimonious friendship, their contrasting personalities, and their individual journeys through life,” she says.

Tiffin U n i ve r si ty’s O ff i c e o f S t u de n t Activ iti e s, G re e k A ffa i rs , E qu e s t ri a n Club a nd R e si d e n ce L i fe h o s t e d a communi ty T r ic k o r T re at ev e n i n g on Oc t ob e r 3 0 .

A l l T i ff i n a re a

Trick be Treat childre n w e re w e l c o me d t o bri n g family a n d f r i e n d s a n d e n j o y t h e holiday fe sti v i ti e s s uc h a s g a m e s , candy,

prizes,

and

much

more.

G re e k A ffa i r s c re a t e d a h a u n t e d house and TU’s Equestrian Club sponsored

a

petting

zoo

which

include d co w s, she e p , h o rs e s , g o a t s , kittens a nd p u p p i e s . R e s i de n c e L i fe staff me m b e r s p a sse d o u t c a n d y i n front o f so m e o f th e re s i de n c e h a l l s on cam p u s . www.tiffin.edu

>

13

CampusScene

what’s happening >

“Dinner in the City”

women of accomplishment, to be inhab-

Artist Marsha Monroe Pippenger described

ited solely by them and other women of

her narrative exhibition, Dinner in the City,

note,” Pippenger says

The world’s most elite athletes will be in

as a visual re-telling of the stories of two

Beijing, China in August of 2008, striving

remarkable women, Christine de Pisan

to win a coveted Olympic medal and the opportunity to stand proudly while their

of art and culture during the November

Whirlpool-Maytag Integration

Diane Kidd Gallery art exhibit opening.

Tom Toth, Division Vice President of Clyde

tion from Tiffin University will also be in

Pippenger’s

Whirlpool Corporation presented Clyde

Beijing for what Dr. Bonnie Tiell describes

Division

as “an up-close, experience of a lifetime.”

and Judy Chicago, across five centuries

title

for

her

exhibition

combines elements of both artists’ ground-

national anthem is played.

Whirlpool-Maytag

Integration

A delega-

breaking

during November’s Good Morning World

work

to

breakfast lecture series. Toth was named

TU students Leigh Zajac, Devin Rudolf,

bring

the

Division Vice President for the Clyde

and Beth Clark will join 14 other stu-

accomplish-

Division in 2006. Prior to joining the Clyde

dents from universities across the country

ments

of

Division, Toth held positions of increas-

on the journey. In total, 10 universities

women into

ing responsibility at Whirlpool’s Tulsa

will be represented as part of the “Tiffin

the

Division, corporate offices and several

University Olympic Academic Experience,”

of

manufactur-

according to Tiell, Chair of the Marketing

Western

ing locations

and Sports Management Department at

history and

in the Unit-

Tiffin University.

culture.

ed

Pippinger Empress Eheodora ...

Christine

Throughout

The TU professor is teaming with Dr.

Advocate for Women

de

Pisan

his

career,

Marcia Mackey to guide the students on

(ca.

1364-

main-

stream

States.

he has dem-

the 12-day study of the organization,

1430) has been called France’s first

onstrated

a

supervision, and management of inter-

professional woman of letters, made

commitment

national sport venues and elite competi-

famous by writing The Book of the City

to

leader-

tion. Mackey, an Associate Professor of

of Ladies. Judy Chicago, born in 1939, is a contemporary visual artist who created

Tom Toth

the art installation “The Dinner Party.”

ship

activi-

Sports Management at Central Michigan

ties in the

University, has extensive travel experience

community,

in Asia and will share her background in

and to his family. Whirlpool Corporation

international world class sports facilities

In The Book of the City of Ladies,

is the world’s leading manufacturer and

operations.

Christine de Pisan tells how in a

marketer of major home appliances, with

waking dream she is visited by three grac-

annual sales of over $18 billion, 73,000

“Our networking efforts will provide the

es: Ladies Reason, Rectitude, and Justice.

employees, and nearly 70 manufacturing

necessary expertise in teaching the scope

They charge Christine with establishing

and technology research centers around

of coordinating governing entities at the

a new writ-

the globe. The company markets Whirl-

local and international level to produce

ten tradition

pool, Maytag, Amana, Admiral, KitchenAid,

the world’s largest sporting event,” Tiell

of

women.

Inglis, Brastemp, Bauknecht, Consul and

remarks.

“To do this,

other major brand names to consumers in

Christine

more than 170 countries.

ment majors from our contingency of

an allegori-

10 large, midsize, and small universities

cal city built

in the United States will be studying

by

Chinese culture and olympic games

both

logical and Pippinger Dinner In The City

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

“While we’re there, the sports manage-

constructs

m y t h o -

14

TU’s ‘Olympic Academic Experience’

historical

organization,” Tiell says.

Dr Zhaolu Lu, Professor of Philosophy at Tiffin University and Director of TU’s China Program, has been assisting the group with necessary logistical services for accommodations, ground transportation, and an interpreter.

A Small Home,

A Big Heart.

This is the second time that Tiell has coordinated the cross-cultural Olympic Academic program. In 2004, she joined Dr. Janet Hanna, former TU Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, as they guided 17 students to Greece to tour the remaining relics of the ancient site of the Games in Olympia and the modern sports venues for

ASSISTED LIVING

the 2004 Olympic Games in the capital of Athens.

During that program, the U.S. Embassy provided an academic focus on security issues at the Olympics for the team. Fifteen of the students received accreditation

INDEPENDENT LIVING

as official Olympic Volunteers and served in a variety of capacities as guest services and transportation administrators.

“While in Greece, the Tiffin University delegation was fortunate to meet numerous Olympians,” Tiell says.

More

information

about

Tiffin

University

Olympic

the

2008

Academic

Experience, including the tentative itinerary, can be viewed by clicking on the Beijing Olympic logo at http://bruno.tiffin.edu/btiell on the TU website. Dr. Bonnie Tiell can be reached at 419/ 448-3261, or via email at btiell@tiffin.edu.

175 St. Francis Avenue, Tiffin, Ohio

419.443.1445 www.adcarehealth.com/friedman-village A Retirement Community owned by Tiffin University. www.tiffin.edu

>

15

what’s happening >

CampusScene

Book Published by TU Grad Students

Strange But Real can be ordered at a

F ive T i ff i n U n i ver si ty gr ad u at e stude nts m a jo ring in J ust i c e Ad m i n i str ati on d ec i d ed on a diffe re nt so r t o f cla ss pr oj e c t f o r t h e i r Con t emp or ar y Issu es a nd Tre nds in Crim ina l J ust i c e c o u r s e .

versial issues in the field of criminal jus-

cost of $7.80 (or the e-book for $1.25) by

visiting

http://www.lulu.com/con-

tent/965868.

“The book offers a realistic but candid viewpoint of contemporary and controtice,” Edwards comments.

“The book

should be of interest to the criminal justice practitioners interested in police, court, and corrections work. I believe it also will appeal to the novice, and to any reader who wants to learn about the

They wrote a book.

many obscure issues that impact the Strange But Real: Perspectives on Odd Issues in Crim-

political and operational aspects of

inal Justice covers diverse and sometimes contro-

fieldwork. This book provides candid and factual insight into the realm of

versial issues ranging from CSI (Crime Scene) enthusiasts serving on juries and taxpayer-financed college educations for inmates, to undercover

criminal justice.”

N

Their Employment?

the feasibility of a border security fence, from inmate and police officer gender changes and

N

Should the United States Sanction Torture in Interrogations?

consequences to prison nurseries and ethnicity in jury selection, among others.

Should Police Officers Who Undergo a Sex Change Be Allowed to Maintain

prostitution, police surveillance cameras and

N

Should Lawmakers Introduce Harsher Sanctions

for

Convicted

Sex

Offenders?

According to Ron Edwards, who received his Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree from Tiffin University in May, the book was

N

Should Child Rapists Be Executed?

the brainchild of the course instructor, Keith N. Haley, Professor of Criminal Justice

N

Should School Children Be Taught to

and Chair of Graduate Studies Programs.

Fight Back Against Armed Intruders?

“Professor Haley is an accomplished and widely published criminal justice author, and

More about the student authors of

the opportunity to work closely with him on this project was a labor of love,” Edwards

Strange But Real: Perspectives on Odd

remarks. “The initial classes were filled with extraordinary discussions of original and

Issues in Criminal Justice:

personal experiences encountered by the student practitioners. When Professor Haley

Ron Edwards is an adjunct instructor

presented the idea of writing and publishing a book, we readily embraced the opportu-

for the University of Rio Grande and the

nity to be part of this incredible collaboration.”

Hocking College in Ohio. He began his criminal justice career with the Ohio De-

Each of the five student authors in the JUS 510 class contributed three chapters and

partment

of

assisted with the editing of the finished manuscript. Haley also contributed three

Rehabilitation

chapters, and utilized his extensive publishing background for the book’s layout and

and

design.

tion in 1974

Correc-

as a correc-

16

In addition to Edwards – TU’s Outstanding Graduate Criminal Justice Student of the

tions

officer.

Year and one of two keynote speakers during the 2007 Graduate Commencement

He

served

Ceremony, the other student authors include Amanda Moon-Thomas, Shannon Scott,

as warden of

Stacie Suemoto and Sherri L. Warnock. Four of the five student authors are currently

several

working in the criminal justice field.

prisons before

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

Ohio

retiring in 2001 as the South Regional

sition as an intake hearing officer for the

ciate’s degree

Director of Prisons. A Vietnam veteran,

Judges/Magistrates in the Protective Ser-

from

he retired from the Ohio Army National

vices Department.

He is also pursuing

Ohio Technical

Guard after 30 years. Governor Bob Taft

his master’s degree from Tiffin University.

College. Since

appointed Edwards as the Director of the

Central

leaving

the

Governor’s Office of Veterans Affairs in

Stacie Suemoto graduated cum laude

Newark Police

2001. In 2004 he served as the Correc-

from Franklin University and is working to-

Depar tment,

tions Adviser to the U.S. Embassy in Port-

ward completion of her master’s degree at

Warnock has

au-Prince, Republic of Haiti. He holds an

Tiffin University. She says that obtaining

worked

associate’s degree from the Hocking Col-

her degree from TU will be a step closer

delinquent

lege, a bachelor’s degree. from Wilming-

to fulfilling her lifetime aspiration to work

and emotionally disturbed children, and

ton College, and a Master of Science in

in the criminal justice field. She has more

has been substitute teaching in special

Criminal Justice from Tiffin University.

than 15 years of experience in various

education. She is a former member of

with

aspects of office processes and manage-

the Ohio Army National Guard, where she

Amanda Moon-Thomas started her career

ment, and currently works as the Assistant

spent 12 years as a heavy construction

in the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation

to the Vice President of Flight Operations

equipment mechanic, and was assistant

and Corrections in 1996 as a pre-release

at a multinational aviation company.

section chief of her squad.

coordinator at North Central Correctional Facility.

1999,

Now pursu-

ing her master’s degree from Tiffin Univer-

In

Sherri L. Warnock, served as a patrol of-

sity, Warnock says she hopes to return to

she

ficer and community policing officer for her

the criminal justice field and to teach for a

transfer red

hometown of Newark, Ohio from 1991 to

college or police academy. She currently

to Lima Cor-

1998. She has a bachelor’s degree from

is an adjunct professor at ITT College in

rectional

Ohio Dominican University, and an asso-

Hilliard, Ohio.

Institution, where

she

unit manager. She is a 1996 graduate

Tiffin Tg T Glance

from Bluffton University, and is currently

History: Independent, coeducational in-

pursuing her master’s degree from Tiffin

stitution; founded 1888.

worked as a case

man-

ager for nearly five years until the closing of the prison. In 2004, she transferred to Oakwood Correctional Facility as a social worker. She was soon promoted to

Faculty:

133

full-time

and

adjunct

faculty; 80 percent of the full-time faculty hold doctorates or the highest certification in their field. Many work in their field of study and remain closely connected to

University.

their industry.

Campuses: 110-acre campus in Tiffin,

Academics: Tiffin grants the following

Ohio, including beautiful new facilities

Shannon Scott earned a degree in crimi-

degrees: Associate of Arts, Associate of

such as the Hertzer Technology Center

nology from Urbana University, but upon

Business Administration, Associate of

and The Hayes Center for the Arts, as

graduation, pursued a professional base-

Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Arts, Bach-

well as Academic Centers throughout

ball career.

After retiring from profes-

elor of Business Administration, Bachelor

Ohio and online.

sional baseball, Scott was hired by the

of Criminal Justice, Master of Business

Franklin County Children Services as a

Administration, Master of Humanities,

Library: The Richard C. Pfeiffer Library

caseworker and investigator. After two

and Master of Science in Criminal Justice.

has an extensive collection of books,

years, he left the agency to work as a ju-

On-campus and online courses offered.

subscriptions to magazines and newspa-

venile corrections officer for the Franklin

pers, microfiche units, and computers for

County Common Pleas Court, Division of

Enrollment:

15:1

online searching. The library is a member

Domestic Relations and Juvenile Court.

student/faculty ratio; average class size

of OhioLINK and Online Computer Library

He was soon promoted to his present po-

of 18.

Center (OCLC).

2,349

students;

www.tiffin.edu

>

17

what’s happening >

CampusScene

TaW Who’s Who What They Do According to Marinis, anyone who steps on Tiffin University’s

Jeremy Marinis Director of Undergraduate Admissions

campus can attest to feeling immediately welcomed. “To me, TU

A familiar face joined TU’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions this year. Jeremy Marinis (TU Class of 2002), served as a full-time

is a community of caring individuals striving to promote a learning environment,” he explained. “It’s a feeling of a close family.”

assistant coach with the Dragon Football Team and in the Graduate Admissions department before beginning his new roll as Director of

Not only did Marinis get his bachelor’s degree and begin his professional career at TU, he also met his fiancé, Jamie Martin, who

Undergraduate Admission in March.

is Director of TU’s Fremont Academic Center. “She oversees the Marinis was thrilled to be given the opportunity to stay at TU to work in the Graduate Admissions Office after his internship with the

recruitment and advising of students enrolling in the program,” he explained.

football team ended. “I am very fortunate to work for people who believe in me,”

This fall, Jeremy began working toward a Ph.D. at the University of Toledo. “I really enjoy the collegiate setting, working with students

he said.

and watching them reach their full potential,” he explained. “In the With his new position came many new and exciting responsibilities.

A typical

future, I would like to be able to teach classes and enjoy a healthy and happy family,” he concluded.

day for Marinis entails monitoring prospective student inquiries, developing working relationships with potential students and/or informing them of the status

Jill Earl Student Affairs Office Manager

of their application, promoting TU in a positive manner, managing

Friendly, kind, sincere, energetic, helpful, dedicated, and caring are

the recruiting team, overseeing student employees, and marketing

all words that describe Jill Earl, Student Affairs Office Manager. This

the undergraduate program, to name just a few.

year, Earl also took on the title and responsibilities of Equestrian Club and

Marinis doesn’t seem too troubled by his many new responsibilities

Team Advisor.

at TU. “I enjoy working with people and giving young adults the opportunity to reach their goals and develop their career paths,”

The

he said. “I have a hand in helping them make a better life for

comprised of 20 students, is in its first

Varsity

Equestrian

Team,

themselves.”

year of competition. Earl acts as the liaison between the school and the

He shared that he finds it difficult to deny a student admission to

facility—where the team rides. She is

TU. On the flip side, Marinis feels that the most rewarding part of

also responsible for recruiting mem-

his job is seeing the excitement of new students as they enroll and

bers and traveling with the team. “It has been a really awesome

begin their futures.

experience for me,” said Earl. “I have been able to develop the program from the ground up.”

18

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

When Earl is not busy with her equestrian team, you can find her

employee relations. She also handles

surrounded by students at her desk in the front of the Student

the hiring process and all the paper-

Affairs Office. “The best part of my job is the students. I love being

work and details that go along with

here with them,” said Earl.

it. “I like to see people on the way in.

It’s a great time to get to know new

Earl credits the TU students as being both the most rewarding part

employees and interact with current

of her job and her biggest motivator. “I love to watch them set and

employees on campus,” explained Hall.

achieve goals,” she explained. “I live vicariously through them.”

Hall, who graduated with her bachelor’s Over the summer, Jill took on the project of improving the student

degree from TU in 1985 and again with

game room. She hung wallpaper and re-organized the pool tables

an MBA in 1992, spent 15 years in the banking industry before

and furniture and added a new air hockey table and additional ping

returning to TU as an employee. She credits Dr. John Millar with

pong tables as well.

her return. “I had left my position in banking to be a stay-at-home mom. I ran into Dr. Millar, who was once my softball coach and

In order to do her job, Earl must stay organized and always know

advisor for her MBA. He thought I needed more to do and encour-

what is going on around campus. It is not out of the ordinary to see

aged me to come back to TU to teach management,” she explained.

her drop what she is doing to cater to a student’s problem or special request. “I have to be able to roll with the punches,” she said.

“Dr. Millar took a personal interest in me as a student athlete during my undergraduate years and has continued to mentor me through-

Earl has accomplished many things over the past four years that she

out my career. That is one of the great things about Tiffin University.

has worked for Tiffin University. Those accomplishments include

You get to know your professors one on one and they care about

close relationships that have been developed with the students.

your development.” She took him up on the offer to come back to TU

“I have a great rapport with them. They know they can come to me

and was an adjunct faculty member for three years. In October of

for anything,” she explained.

2002, she was hired as TU’s first Director of Human Resources.

Another great accomplishment is the development of the

Since becoming director, Hall has successfully enhanced employee

Equestrian Club and Team, which she started two years ago as

benefits, developed the employee assistance program which offers

a club.

counseling to employees who are going through difficult times, and

“There was such a great response that we decided to

become an organization on campus. The students showed interest in

built the Human Resources Office from the ground up.

competition, so we made it happen,” said Earl.

Hall shared that the most rewarding part of her job is helping an Outside of the office, and the barn, she is working on her

employee resolve a seemingly impossible issue. “It’s amazing the

bachelor’s degree. After taking a deep breath, she explained, “My

positive changes that have taken place on campus. I can appreciate

degree will be in business administration with a minor in marketing

where we were and where we are now,” she said.

and a concentration in equine business management.”

In the future, Hall would like to integrate more technology into the Human Resources Department.

Lori Hall Director of Human Resources Equal Opportunity Officer “I believe that everybody has a purpose,” said Lori Hall, Director of Human Resources and Equal Opportunity Officer for Tiffin University.

“My position helps me fulfill my purpose in life.”

“A Human Resources

Information Management System would be a great resource to have,” she explained. She would also like to keep teaching classes.

“It reminds me of why I am here. The reason we are all here is to give the students a great learning experience,” “I have a real loyalty to Tiffin University,” explained Hall. “This is a very special place.”

Hall said that she really likes what she does. “It’s a dream come true to me that I have a job that I like this much,” said Hall. “I enjoy coming to work every day.”

Her days are generally packed with appointments, walk-in’s, and answering many questions dealing with employee benefits and www.tiffin.edu

>

19

what’s happening >

CampusScene “We have career-focused majors, combined with plenty of opportunities for our students to participate in internships, co-curricular activities, and be involved in the community. Our students are receiving the real-world experience that gives them a jump up on today’s competitive job market,” remarks Dr. Cam Cruickshank, Vice President for Enrollment Management.

Graduate and Degree Completion Programs Show Dramatic Enrollment Increases Highlights of Tiffin University’s enrollment growth include the continued expansion of the university’s graduate and degree completion programs.

N

Total enrollment in the Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and Master of Humanities degree

42% Increase In Enrollment in 2 years

programs grew from 369 in the fall of 2005 to 715 this fall, which is a 94% increase in two years.

N

The number of students enrolled in the bachelor’s degree completion programs in

A Reflection of Tif fin University’s Brand Promise: “Real Connections. Real Results.”

Tiffin University’s dramatic 42% increase in enrollment in the past two years reflects the university’s brand promise of “Real Connections, Real Results,”

Business Administration and Criminal Justice grew from 322 to 480 in the past two years, which is a jump of 49%.

Tiffin’s bachelor’s

degree completion programs are offered both online and in Toledo, Elyria, Fremont, Cleveland, Lima, Columbus, Cincinnati, Mentor, Archbold,

according to President Paul Marion. “The significant enrollment increase reflects

and Shelby.

the positive academic reputation of the University and the high level of student “TU students receive the benefits of a small, satisfaction,” said Marion.

private institution where they can really get to know their classmates and faculty. This all adds up to Tiffin University being a really good value – we are

Total enrollment for fall Semester 2007 was 2,349 students. This represents an 18% increase over the 2006 enrollment of 1,990, and 42% over the 2005 enrollment of 1,658. Total enrollment for all of the other colleges and universities in Ohio grew by only 1.4% during the past year and 1.5% during the past two years.

Of Tiffin University’s 2,349 students, 1,825 come from Ohio, 390 from 39 other states, and 134 from 17 foreign countries.

20

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

consistently one of the most affordable colleges in the Midwest, along with providing the highest quality of education among our majors,” Cruickshank remarks.

Real Programs Bachelor of Arts N

N

N

N N N N N

Arts Administration – Musical Arts – Visual Arts Communication – Electronic Media – Journalism – Public Relations Education – Integrated Language Arts, Grades 7-12 – Integrated Social Studies, Grades 7-12 English Government & National Security History Law & Society Psychology – Addictions Counseling – Experimental Psychology – Human Services

In tern atio na l Stude nt Po pula tio n Pro vide s ‘ B ri d ge Be twe e n Na tive Culture s a nd Our Am e rica n Cult ur e ’ President Paul Marion officially welcomed

international students celebrated their

53 new students from Canada, United

return to campus.

Kingdom, China, Finland, India, Australia, Senegal, the Netherlands, Turkey,

Cultural exchange between all students,

and Romania during the annual World

faculty, staff and the community at large

Student Association (WSA) International

continues to flourish through the ac-

Flag Ceremony on Wednesday, Septem-

tivities of the WSA, according to Pavlo

ber 26, 2007 at the Gillmor Student Cen-

Kanellakis, the organization’s advisor.

ter.

Activities include international fashion shows, a community dinner offering na-

International students new to Tiffin Uni-

tive foods and entertainment, Diversity

versity presented the flags of their coun-

Week, and the co-sponsoring of social

tries to President Marion, while other

activities on campus. (continued p22)

Bachelor of Business Administration N N

N N

N N

Accounting Computer & Information Technology Finance Management – Equine Business Management – Hospitality & Tourism Management – Human Resources Management – International Business – Managerial Studies Marketing Sports & Recreation Management

Bachelor of Criminal Justice N N N N N

Corrections Forensic Psychology Forensic Science Homeland Security & Terrorism Law Enforcement

Associate of Arts N

General Studies

WHAT’S NEW AT TU Tiffin University’s New Undergraduate Programs include: Associate of Arts in General Studies; concentrations in Addictions Counseling, Experimental Psychology, Human Services (within Psychology major), and Equine Business Management (within Management major); minors in Creative Writing, Intelligence Analysis, and Regional Studies - Middle East.

Associate of Business Administration N N N

Accounting Business Information Technology

Associate of Criminal Justice N

Law Enforcement

New Undergraduate Services include: Equestrian team and success coaches for freshmen admitted through Learning Assistance Program.

New Graduate Programs include: Concentrations in Sports Management (within MBA) and Criminal Behavior (within MSCJ).

New Graduate Services include: Dean of Graduate Studies position created to enhance graduate programs. www.tiffin.edu

>

21

what’s happening >

CampusScene

”International students provide a bridge

International Student Countries

between their native cultures and our

Represented at Tiffin University 07-08

American culture,” adds Anthony King,

Australia

English Language and American Culture

Bahamas

(ELAC) Coordinator and Director of Inter-

Bolivia

national Student Services. “Their com-

Canada

The Tiffin Unive r s it y Eque s tria n Te a m m a de his t o r y in Octo be r, whe n it co m pe t e d in its fir st Inte rco lle g ia t e Ho r s e Asso cia tio n ( HSA) m e e t .

mitment and courage has opened up

China

new worlds for our native born students

England

who in turn have accepted them into our

Finland

culture not as visitors but as friends.”

Ghana

“Although Tiffin University is a small pri-

India

vate school, we were extremely competitive

The Netherlands

against the nine other universities in the

WHAT OUR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS HAVE TO SAY Xiaocheng Yin, a student from China, remarks, “I think TU is a turning point in my life. It has given me the chance to experience an American university so I can see the difference between a Chinese and American education. Students here are free to do many things. We can change our lives ourselves.”

Nigeria

The meet was hosted by Ohio University at Stonegate Farm in Coolville, Ohio.

meet,” remarks Coach Julie Vogel.

Romania Venezuela

The IHSA consists of eight levels of hunter

Senegal

seat riding and six levels of western rid-

South Korea

ing, according to Vogel. The TU equestrians

Trinidad & Tabago

competed in 13 of 48 different classes in the

Turkey

hunter seat riding competition.

Vietnam “Each student rider draws for placement order and horse on the day of the compe-

“Tiffin University is a place where I can

tition,” Vogel explains. “The riders are ex-

realize my dreams,” says Dandan Cui,

pected to be skilled enough to participate

also from China

competitively with an unknown horse and unfamiliar saddle.”

“To me, TU means a new environment and a new home in the United States. It

The event is judged according to class, and

has given me a new life, which is filled

awards are given to the top six riders within

with different things that I am not fa-

each class.

miliar with – different people, different cultures, and even different food. I like Tiffin University because of its beautiful campus and kind people. Also, it is full of challenges for me.” Di Hua of China “I chose Tiffin University so I can learn things that will help my family’s business back home.” Minxiao Xu of China “I think that TU is a place where many people coming from many different countries are meeting for the purpose of acquiring knowledge to excel in the future.”

Mouhamadou Kane of Senegal

22

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

“We are very proud of all of our athletes, who placed in every class they entered,” says Assistant Coach Claire Johansen. Following their impressive first showing, the Equestrian team competed in November at Lake Erie College and again at Akron University. All team members again placed in their appropriate classes. Competitions will continue through spring semester.

Members of the TU hunter seat team include Cory Boliantz, Elizabeth Buskey, Allison Dittman, Kaitlin Foster, Victoria Harrington, Autumn Hurst, Amanda Vorst, Veronica Yearling and Rachael Zwayer.

Tiffin University is a member of Zone 6, Region 3, which also includes The Ohio State University, Kent State University, Denison University, College of Wooster, Kenyon College, University of Akron, Oberlin College, Lake Erie College and Ohio University.

Top: Victoria Harrington Sycamore Ohio, Rachel Zwayer Ashville Ohio, Elizabeth Buskey Rootsville Ohio, Katlin Foster Novelty, Ohio, Alison Dittman

Equestrian Team `T^Xf History

Winter Haven Florida, Amanda Vorst Continental Ohio Bottom: Phyllis Watts Faculty Sponsor, Claire Johansan Assistant Coach, Autumn Hurst Medina Ohio, Cory Boliantz Polk Ohio, Veronica Yearling Grand Junction Michigan, Julie Vogel Head Coach, Jill Earl Advisor

started in the spring of 2006. TU and Lane of Dreams offer horseback riding available three times a week to

“The objective of the IHSA is to offer the opportunity for students to

the entire TU community. Lane of Dreams teaches beginning through

participate competitively in their first year of riding with other ex-

intermediate English and Western riding, including dressage, jump-

perienced riders and gain competitive show experience,” says Team

ing and trail riding.

Advisor Jill Earl.

Claire Johansen, a TU trustee, operates Lane of Dreams with Julie TU’s Equestrian Team is based at Lane of Dreams Farm, LLC, a

Vogel. Both are certified riding instructors. More information about

working farm and equestrian training center on Country Road 16 in

TU’s Equestrian Team is available by contacting Jill Earl at 419/ 448-

Tiffin. The team is an outgrowth of the university’s Equestrian Club,

3264, or by email at EarlJ@tiffin.edu.

A BIT OF TU HORSE HISTORY TU Alum, Lynne Bogan Shifley, Class of 1965, Galion, Ohio, writes, “I enjoyed the winter 2006-2007 issue of Challenge Magazine—especially the article on the Equestrian Club. I thought I would let you know that in 1963, I wrote an article for The Tystenac about another TU riding club, simply called, The Riding Club. We had fun, but went Western. Our horses were not all the same size—my horse was named Duke and was low to the ground, but very fast.”

The article, written by Lynne Bogan Shifley, and dated November 1963, follows:

Tally-Ho Everybody This fall, TU swung into the saddle with a new club. It consisted of a group of daring Roughriders who hit the saddle every Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. until dark. Can you guess what it is? If you can’t, here’s a little clue, it’s a Riding Club.

The Club began last term and ended with the coming of cold weather. It met every Wednesday at the Tiffin Riding Academy, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Fruth. The charge was $1.25 an hour. There are horses for any type of rider, beginner or expert. Lessons were provided free of

charge to those members who were interested.

During one of the meetings, officers were elected (Co-chairman, Bonnie Purvis and Gloria Nielsen, Secretary, Treasurer and Reporter, Lynne Bogan. The Club advisor was Mr. Moon who could usually be found around the Old Corral helping tighten cinches and shortening stirrups.

With the coming of warm weather, TU will once again saddle up and swing into line.

So long pardner, see you next spring!

www.tiffin.edu

>

23

tiffin university >

Homecoming

T iffin U nive rsity’s ho m e c o m ing to o k plac e the w e e ke nd o f Oc to be r 12. The weekend kicked of f on F ri day with the Tif fin University Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner, Auct ion and Induct ion Cer em ony at T he Gillm or St udent Cent er.

On Sat ur day, t he Alum ni Of fice host ed pr e- g ame fest iv it ies at t he foot ball st adium whic h featur ed a food t ent , and a childr en’s gam e and c raft tent.

Homecoming g[\f 2007

Half-t im e included t he int r oduct ion of the 2007 Hom ecom ing Cour t and r ecognit ion of the 2007 At hlet ic Hall of Fam e m em ber s.

Assistant Football Coach David Barr 24

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

Hom ecom ing weekend also incl uded a wom en’s v olleyball m at ch, an alum ni s oftbal l gam e, a wom en’s soccer gam e, and a men’s soccer gam e.

Aft er t he foot ball g ame, the fest iv it ies cont inued at a local est ablishment and TU alum ni and fr iends gat her ed t o t he s ounds of Four Thor n Rose-nor t hwest Ohio’s pr emi er classic r ock band. The weekend en ded w i th t he annual alum ni v olleyball gam e on Sunday.

For fur t her det ails r egar ding nex t year’s H omecom ing Weekend, please cont act t he Al umni Of fice at 419.448.3313.

Center: Jim and Sue Karel, Parents of Alexis Karel

TU Homecoming King and Queen 2007 King- Kade Ross Kade is a Finance major from Oak Harbor, Ohio. “I picked TU because of the friendly manner in which I was treated upon visiting here,” he said. “Even as a high school senior I was treated as part of the TU Community”. He also was attracted to the small class sizes which allowed him to be more than just a number.

While he is unsure about his future at this time, he is looking into graduate schools with programs in both Economic Development and College Student Personnel. Ross loves to travel and has also been looking for jobs overseas.

Queen-Lauren Williams Lauren is a Law Enforcement major from Jupiter, Florida. She said, “I came to TU to further my education by entering into the criminal justice field so I can eventually work for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. I was also recruited by the TU Softball Team.”

Williams

plans

to

further

her

education

at

TU through the Master of Science in Criminal Justice program. “After that, I would like to work for a federal government agency,” she said. She is also interested in traveling overseas to play softball for an international team.

Rocco Stella www.tiffin.edu

>

25

tiffin university >

Homecoming

Homecoming Court: Seniors Joelle Hall and Zachary Ball

Robin Ferris, Class of 1979 returns to TU to celebrate Homecoming 2007

Dragon Alumni Fans

Senior Donnie Johnson slashes through the hole provided by senior Nathan Karn’s block during the Dragons 12-16 win over Concord.

TU Dragon

Special thanks to Walt of Columbian High School for taking the time to create and show TU pride on the hill of Frost Kalnow Stadium!

26

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

Matt Brosovich, Senior Right Tackle

[b`XVb`\aZ 07 Dragon fans

Junior Troy Brookins and sophomore Drew Douthit level a Concord receiver during Tiffin’s 23-16 victory

www.tiffin.edu

>

27

TU students >

Congratulations

T he f ir s t p la c e winner won $100 and th e s eco n d p la c e winner won $50.

je\g\aZ

Contest

T U s t u d e n t s were i n vi t ed t o en ter a writing co nte st “De scribe who ( pe r so n) o r wha t (e ve nt ) has i n s p i r e d y o u most at t h i s t i me i n y o ur life a nd why.”

FIRST PLACE WINNER

ground infraction or and having to sign to me, then wait for the voice interpretation before receiving the teacher’s soft, sympathetic

Mimi

look she was seeking. Worse still would be the storm-cloud ex-

By Paula Young We made a strange-looking twosome, my client and I. She was petite, even among her second-grade classmates. I was a tall 36year-old that fall of 1996. She, Deaf, I, the hearing one, was hired to be her interpreter.

It must have felt odd for her, being in a classroom full of chattering, giggling children, with her only awareness of what was being said coming from my hands. I imagine her frustration when she’d want to urgently inform the teacher of an injury or play

pression on her face when she’d sign the correct answer in class like, “the yellow duck”, and I’d mistakenly blurt “the yellow bird.”

I’d feel doubly badly; not only for my error but also because I had disappointed the appealing child with the huge blue eyes.

It

wasn’t that way for her at home with her Deaf parents and hearing, bi-lingual younger sister. Communication flowed freely with the grace of ASL on their hands, faces, and bodies.

Our client/interpreter relationship was unique in that it was so long-term; having lasted eleven years. I can’t recall a cross word ever passing between us. Over time our relationship evolved from interpreter/client to a warm friendship. She’s such a bright, engaging, expressive person, it was always a pleasure to hear what was on her mind, what her weekend plans were, or read her original poetry. She, in turn, seemed interested in the tidbits I’d share with her about my family. In short, our relationship was an impossible-to-describe mixture of the professional, slightly maternal (on my part), and deeply affectionate.

I was thrilled for her when she attended various leadership conferences and camps for Deaf youth. Her expressive eyes sparkled as she related how everyone there was Deaf and she didn’t have to go through an interpreter to communicate with her peers or adults.

I was equally excited for her decision to attend Gallaudet University in Washington D.C.; a college for the Deaf. Judging from her

Paula and Mimi

28

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

e-mails and online blogs, in the few weeks she’s been there, she’s

Another person who

thriving in the environment where “everyone signs.”

has influenced me and only in a relatively

Mimi Rose Adams is an inspiration to me because she lived outside

short time compared

her comfort zone the entire time she was mainstreamed in a “hear-

to others is my fiancé,

ing” school; and now, finally, feels perfectly at home among her

Ron.

signing peers, faculty and staff at the college. My life has been

capability to love un-

changed through my association with this cute kid turned lovely

conditionally not only

young woman. Any time I’m called upon to step outside my com-

myself but my daugh-

fort zone; whether it’s to work with an exceptionally challenging

ters sustains and en-

client, or to attend college classes with young people with a “born-

courages me daily. The

on” date after that of some of my socks, I will think of her having

divorce was a profound event and when I walked across Tiffin

been there, experienced that all of her public school days.

University stage to receive my bachelor’s degree through the Fast

His belief and

Rhonda, Allison and Ashley

Track program at 40 years old also impacted me profoundly. The Editor’s Note:

degree represented a closure to my past twenty years of a turbu-

Paula Young is a sophomore, non-traditional student, currently at-

lent marriage and a new beginning. The beginning has taken on

tending classes in Tiffin. She earned an associate’s degree in ASL

a different path than I anticipated in that I found a significant other

Interpreting. “I’m (very) slowly working on a bachelor’s degree,” she

and true love. This has given me the confidence to pursue my

said. A longtime resident of Tiffin, Paula is a wife, mother, grand-

Master of Humanities degree through Tiffin University.

mother, and ASL Interpreter in a public school system.

In addition to the above people and events, I also contribute my faith as a major moving, sustaining and motivating factor throughout my life. These people, my accomplishments and my faith, I believe, have positively affected me by believing that I am important,

SECOND PLACE WINNER

Wow! Anything is Possible with Belief in Yourself and Support

I can accomplish my goals and that, no matter what, I am loved by people, but most importantly by my maker. All of these I believe will contribute to me being able to help, serve and assist others throughout whatever roles I play within my life from this point.

By Rhonda Kieffer

My future is still an unwritten book waiting to be written page by

Many have inspired me, as well as two significant events. It is

page and chapter by chapter. The fact that I have a loving signifi-

difficult to give any one individual or event more credit than the

cant other, my children, the ability to learn and obtain my degree

next. We are all journeying as a result of individuals and events

and most importantly my creator and faith with me daily, then I

continually. The many that have impacted my life would include

can accomplish anything and my ideal would be to be involved

my children, more specifically my twin twelve year old daughters,

with an non-profit organization so that I may assist with the vol-

Allison and Ashley. They both have cerebral palsy to different de-

unteers or fundraising efforts for a worthwhile cause, particularly

grees. Allison is affected within her learning and Ashley is affected

ones affecting families and children.

physically in her legs, hands and some in learning.

Editor’s Note: Both are not severe by any means but just enough to keep a chal-

Rhonda earned a Bachelor of Business Administration through TU’s

lenge in their growth.

They inspire me with their open mind

Fast Track program. “Tiffin University offered me an opportunity to

and how they adapt and continue with their best and modify as

continue my education and reach my educational goal. I pursued

necessary. They do all this so easily and through trial and error

the degree while moving twice, working full time as a single mom

until they find the best possible way. That in itself, as a mother of

and raising four daughters. Now, I want to further my education

these two wonderful young girls, has helped me to see that I too

which is why I am now enrolled in the Master of Humanities pro-

can do this within my life. I have modeled their resilience through

gram at Tiffin University,” she said.

a divorce, returning to school at Tiffin University, working and taking on new chapters within my life.

www.tiffin.edu

>

29

2009/2010 >

Re-Accreditation

Re-Accreditation cebVXff Begins In the U ni te d State s, sc h oo ls a n d c ollege s v o lu nt ar ily s e e k accr e dit at io n fr o m no n- go v e r nm e nt bo die s . Ther e ar e two type s o f e d u c a t i o nal a c c r e d i t at i o n : i n s t i t ut i o nal and spec ializ ed. I nstitutional ac c r editation is pr ovided by s ix r egi o n a l a s so c i a t io n s o f s c h o o l s a n d c o l l e g es. The r egional assoc iations ar e independent of one another, but they c o o p e r a t e e x t ens i v e l y and a c k n o w l edg e one another’ s ac c r editation.

An institutional ac c r editing agency

eval u a t e s a n e n t i r e e d u c at i o n a l o r g a n i z a t i on in ter ms of its m ission and the agenc y ’ s standar ds or criteria. It accr e d i t s t h e o r g a n i z a t i on a s a w h o l e .

30

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

TU began its decennial (10 year) self-study review process during fall semester 2007 to prepare for its second comprehensive evaluation site visit and re-accreditation by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (HLC/NCA).

Dr. Teresa Shafer, Dean of Assessment and Accreditation and Professor of Sociology, is coordinating the self-study process. “This is an exciting time to be involved with educating our nation’s youth,” Shafer says. “With so many educational choices that families can make, institutions must constantly review their operations to make sure they are offering the highest quality of education possible.”

Many institutions adopt a self-study

More than 75 TU staff and faculty members are serving on five

theme to help unify efforts

working committees to examine specific areas for the self-study.

during the process . Themes tend to hig hlig ht a strateg y or

“The self-study process is designed to be introspective, inclusive,

expectation surrounding the efforts as well . Our theme, “Keep the Ball

and provide the entire academic community an opportunity to par-

Rolling ” was selected to focus our attention on our forward prog ress .

ticipate,” she says.

The self-study will also reinforce the effectiveness of TU’s new brand promise of “Real Connections, Real Results.”

4) Celebrate successes, recognize challenges and establish action plans for improvement.

5) Involve a broad cross-section of campus constituents so as to encourage and improve collaboration and

After

c o m p le t in g

an

initial

self-study

r e p or t

by

communication among staff, faculty, and students.

6) Institute a transparent process and share results widely

mid- 2008, th e fin a l r epor t w i l l b e s u b m i t t ed i n the

among constituents.

7) Reward organizational citizenship for those most closely

summe r o f 2009, w i t h t he a c c r e d i t a t i o n s ite v i si t

involved in the self-study process.

8) Position TU for continued growth and prosperity.

taking p la c e d u rin g t he 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 academ i c y ear.

About The North Central Association The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools was founded in 1895 for the purpose of establishing close relations between

Shafer notes that The Higher Learning Commission adopted a new set of five criteria in 2005 that member institutions must successfully achieve. These include: N

Mission and Integrity

N

Preparing for the Future

N

Student Learning and Effective Teaching

N

Acquisition, Discovery, and Application of Knowledge

N

Engagement and Service

the colleges and secondary schools of the region. Throughout its history, the Association has been committed to the improvement of education at all levels through evaluation and accreditation.

Today, the Association is a membership organization of colleges and schools in 19 states (Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming), Department of Defense schools, and the schools and colleges in sovereign U.S. tribal na-

Tiffin University has defined the eight goals below for its self-

tions within the 19 states.

study: 1) Achieve 10-year re-accreditation from HLC/NCA without follow-up visits or reports.

2) Confirm that TU’s academic programs and administrative policies are aligned with its Mission Statement, Principles for Action, and Strategic Plan.

3) Document the University’s strengths and opportunities,

About The Higher Learning Commission The 26-member Higher Learning Commission Institutional Actions Council (IAC) reviews institutional evaluations. This is the body that makes accrediting decisions. Twenty members are experienced peer reviewers, while six members are representatives of the public.

weaknesses and challenges.

www.tiffin.edu

>

31

alumni update >

Ron Edwards

Grad Working in Iraq to Help Rebuild Prison System

also supervise a staff of 80 Corrections Trainers from all over the United States, who have experience in both federal and state prisons.”

Edwards says that his decision to go to Iraq was an extremely personal one. “For many years, I have worked closely with hundreds of people, both military and civilians, who had gone to Iraq and have reported how essential it was for the U.S. and all of its coalition partners to effectively work to rebuild this war-torn country,” he explains. “There are millions of Iraqi people who want and appreciate our coalition efforts to help them establish democracy. In Iraq, I have seen thousands of years of culture ravished by war. It will be many years before the proud people of Iraq can overcome the devastation of this conflict – a conflict that has impacted every aspect of Iraqi life. It is a labor of

Ron is at a Rusafa Prison for adult males during visiting hours . It is strang e to see only women come to the prison to visit their spouses or relatives . Men normally do not travel to prisons for fear of being arrested or kidnapped . The women are all in traditional Muslim attire. The visitors are in a court yard and are permitted to speak to the inmates on the other side of the security fence. Despite shakedowns by female corrections officers, female visitors still manag e to slip cell phones and other contraband throug h the elaborate security fences .

love to have this opportunity to be here

Ron Edwards, who earned his Master

The TU graduate is no stranger to overseas

There are currently more than 11,000

of Science in Criminal Justice degree

service. He retired in 2001 from the Ohio

employees of Iraq’s Correction Service

from Tiffin University in May 2007, is

Department of Rehabilitation and Correc-

who work in facilities across the nation

now working in Iraq to help rebuild that

tions, and spent a year in the Republic of

of Iraq. “I have personally met many Iraqi

country’s prison system.

Haiti working as the corrections advisor

executive staff, administrators, and correc-

advise the Iraqi government on how to establish an effective criminal justice system.

I believe I am contributing to history.”

for the U.S. Embassy. Then he decided to

tions officers who appreciate the time and

Edwards was named TU’s 2007 Criminal

take a year off from work and work on his

efforts of what the U.S. Corrections

Justice Student of the Year and was one

graduate degree.

Mission provides in our efforts to the prisons and detention facilities throughout their

of two keynote speakers at TU’s Graduate Commencement Ceremony in May.

“The United States is heavily involved in

country,” Edwards says. “I am very im-

He is also one of the authors of the book,

rebuilding the Iraq prison system from the

pressed with the sincerity and compassion

Strange but Real: Perspectives on Odd

ground up,” Edwards remarks in email

shown to Americans on this mission. The

Issues in Criminal Justice.

correspondence from Baghdad.

people are caring, honest, and apprecia-

“My

job is to advise Iraq’s Correction Service

32

in Iraq on this U.S. mission to assist and

tive of our presence in their country.”

Edwards works for a firm that connects

Director General on how to strategical-

criminal justice practitioners with the U.S.

ly operate the country’s prison system

Keith Haley, Professor of Criminal Justice

Department of Justice.

His position is

under international detention standards,

and Chair of Graduate Studies Programs for

Senior Director to Iraq’s Correction Service

and to fly him and staff members to pris-

the School of Criminal Justice and Social

Director General.

ons throughout the country. I work directly

Sciences at TU, was one of Edwards’ pro-

with the U.S. military and Iraqi judges. I

fessors and mentors during his graduate

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

prison consultant to Haiti, and now, when many should be satisfied, he connects with a leadership position in Iraq to rebuild and reform the Iraqi prison system.”

Edwards says he hopes that the people of Iraq can soon enjoy the many freedoms that Americans enjoy. “We have an amazing quality of life in the United States.

Many Iraqis will never have an opportunity to appreciate the freedoms we take for granted in America. The future of Iraq depends on how the government of Iraq This is a one-year old little boy who was with his aunt who is an employee of the Iraq Corrections Service Central Office staff . The little boy came to work with his aunt . Many parents and relatives reg ularly bring children to work with them especially if the child is sick or without a sitter.

school experience. “From the first class I ever saw Ron in, I sensed a zest for learning and an interest in almost everything,” Haley says. “He was always inquisitive in class discussions and considerate in trying to understand the view points of fellow students and faculty members.”

Haley adds, “Ron provides an example for the entire TU community of being both a leader and humanitarian through his Ohio career as a corrections executive, U.S.

can overcome the past 35 years of tyranny and dictatorship,” he comments. “The effects of oppression are still prevalent in Iraq today, and I believe, that with the current work of the United States and its coalition partners, Iraq will have an opportunity to rebuild and harness its strong natural

Ron is kneeling with a small Iraqi g irl who is wearing a colorful dress . She was with a relative and Ron g ave her a “pop tart”. “There are thousands of beautiful children who you see walking by themselves on streets,” said Ron . This little g irl was not shy and did not speak Eng lish .

resources to become an independent country with a democratic government.”

promise is ‘real connections’ to the field of criminal justice practice.

I think in the

He adds, “I am proud to say that we are

case of Ron Edwards’ leadership and

developing an unprecedented criminal

humanitarian service in Iraq, it truly does

justice system in Iraq that will have a

not get any more real than that. As you

strong police presence, a fair and impar-

get to know him, you realize the breadth

tial judicial system, and a safe, secure and

of his multivalent personality: corrections

humane correctional system.”

leader and executive; military leader in the Ohio National Guard, musician, scholar,

Haley says of his former student, “At

humanitarian,

the base of TU’s new educational brand

Mrs. Edwards would sometimes come to

father,

and

husband.

classes as well.”

Edwards says he had a “wonderful experience” during his graduate work at Tiffin University. “I was able to publish criminal justice research, co-author the book Strange but Real: Perspectives on Odd Issues in Criminal Justice with Professor Haley, study abroad in India, and deliver a Commencement Address as the 2007 Criminal Justice Student of the Year,” he says. “I will always be indebted to Tiffin University for offering me a Ron is standing at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Shield outside of Baghdad. FOB Shield is located adjacent to the Rusafa Prison Complex, this complex is the largest prison complex in Iraq; it has 13 separate prisons inside a massive complex.

world-class graduate education.”

www.tiffin.edu

>

33

AlumniScene

update >

EVENT RECAPS 2007 Cruise TU sponsored the “Gems of the Baltic” for alumni and friends cruise in July. The Holland America cruise had ports of call in Copenhagen and Arhus, Denmark; Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia; Helsinki, Finland; Stockholm and Visby, Sweden; and Warnemunde, Berlin.

2009 Cruise M ar k y o u r c a l e n d ar – wat c h f or f u r the r de ta ils!

Alumni & friends are invited to join TU for a 7-day Mexican Riviera cruise on the Holland America cruise line. Departing from San Diego in the spring of 2009, the cruise includes ports of call in Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

V _\V^!

Point.

Give.

With our secure server, investing in Tiffin University has never been easier. Just point and click, and your gift – whatever its size – helps TU provide access and opportunity for individuals, and facilitates their preparation for successful careers and for productive and satisfying lives. We invite our friends and supporters to join us at www.tiffin.edu where Real Connections yield Real Results.

34

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

Cedar Point August 3 marked the tenth annual “Tiffin University Day at Cedar Point”.

Over 400 Tiffin University alumni and friends enjoyed a day of amusement and entertainment at the park.

Show Your TU Pride How many of you have your diploma hanging in your office? Do you wear Tiffin University apparel when you are traveling or on vacation? Do you have a TU license place on your car? Does a TU Alumni license plate holder display your license plate?

Participating in small activities like these helps promote your alma mater.

Who knows when the next prospective student (or parent) will notice that you graduated from Tiffin University?

Tell Us TUbhg Yourself New Jobs or Promotions Award or Recognitions Marriages and Births Vacations Hobbies Change of Address Search for a lost Classmate www.tiffin.edu

www.tiffin.edu

>

35

tell us about yourself >

ClassScene

1930’s

He and the staff shot the activity photos and took the booklet’s cover photo, crediting his graphic arts classes at TU.

Ivan Cole, Class of 1938, Charlotte, North Carolina, and his wife, Maxine celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary with a family gathering in July.

1990’s Matt Pfeiffer, Class of 1991, Columbus, Ohio, and Kelly Kollin were married in July. Mat is employed by Skyline Chili, Inc., as a regional Sales Manager for the Grocery Products Division. Kelly is a 1993 graduate of Ohio University and works as a Human Resources Officer at The Supreme Court of Ohio.

Brandi Hodgkinson Grogan, Class of 1995, Canton, Georgia, writes, “Tom (Class of 1995) and I met at Tiffin University and we were married. We have three beautiful children and are located in the Atlanta Region. I was a restaurant manager for fifteen years

Starting in back row: Doug, Megan & Susie Cole, July Cole, Randy Cole, Catherine Dilley, Jim and Aimee Cali, and Isabel Cali

1950’s

and now I stay at home and have a Mary Kay business. Tom Grogan runs three hotels in Atlanta and does very well. Our favorite memory is meeting each other there.”

Kara Windsor McDonald, Class of 1996, Tiffin, Ohio, writes, “We recently had our third child, Alec. I am also celebrating the oneyear anniversary of a new private mental health practice located

Victor Frantz, II, Class of 1959, Dayton, Ohio, was re-elected

in Tiffin Ohio. Wayne Morse Ph.D. & Associates is located at 24 W.

for the year 2006-07 as Treasurer of two Masonic bodies in Troy,

Market St. and we are accepting new clients for individual, couple,

Ohio.

or family therapy. Call 419-448-4094 to schedule an appointment.”

Kara’s husband, Jason, is a Police Detective for the City of Tiffin.

1960’s James Unger, Class of 1961, and Linda Unger, Class of 2006, reside in Fremont, Ohio. James is retired and Linda is a Reproduction Technician at Terra Community College.

Tom Geibel, Class of 1969, Tiffin, Ohio, is now in his 34th year as Executive Managing Director at the Kiwanis Manor in downtown Tiffin.

“When the position came open here I interviewed and had no idea that 33 years later I would still be here,” he said. He has put together a commemorative booklet for the Manor’s 35th anniversary. It contains many photos, news, clippings, and a list of residents. Geibel is familiar with nearly all the events and people featured within its covers.

36

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

Kliff Wiant, Class of 1996, Duncan, South Carolina, writes, “A couple of years after graduation, I moved to South Carolina, and met Brook. I’ve been in the IT field for almost 10 years, and now work as a contractor for BMW Manufacturing. Brook and I have been married for six years, and we just had our second child, Madilyn, who joins big-brother Landon. We attend the Duncan Church of Christ and enjoy getting up to Ohio as often as we can. I am very thankful for the opportunity to play soccer and golf at Tiffin, as well as everything else that kept me busy there.”

Nick

and

Melissa

Debbie Sidol, Class of 2001, North Olmsted, Ohio, recently com-

’97,

pleted the Virginia Double Iron Triathlon. After competing in sev-

Green,

eral half and full Ironman Triathlons, Debbie said she was ready for

Ohio, are the par-

doubles--the Virginia Double Iron Triathlon. The 45-year-old North

ents of a daughter,

Olmsted resident swam 4.8-miles, biked 224 miles and ran/walked

Emmerson

(Woods) Bowling

Coe

Morgyn,

52.4 miles over 36 hours at Lake Anna State Park in Spotsylvania,

born in September.

Virginia, in October. It was quite a feat for Sidol, who weighed 230

Jolene Ruffing Houpt,

pounds six years ago and couldn’t walk 10 minutes on a treadmill.

Class of 1998, Bloom-

Sidol, 5-2, currently weighs 150 pounds

ville, Ohio, and her husband, Derek, became the parents of a baby boy named Wesley

Debra Beckley-Reamer, Class of 2002, Tiffin, Ohio, is Director of

Michael. “He has been the greatest thing in our lives and we can-

Human Resources at St. Francis Home, Inc. She and her husband,

not imagine life without him.”

Steve, have two children--Joe (a junior in college), and Samie Jo, (a high school senior).

2000’s Jennifer Anderson, Class of 2000, Avon, Ohio, recently completed her MBA at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. In June, she took over ownership of Coco Press LLC. She moved its inventory and headquarters from Cleveland’s eastside to Avon, Ohio. She is president and CEO of the company, which publishes and distributes Story Line journals and stationary products. Recently, Coco Press unveiled its new web site, www.cocopress.com, and is planning many more developments in the future. Jennifer and her husband of 13 years, Christian, have four children.

Herriott Brandon, Class of 2000, Toledo, Ohio, writes “After 7 years as Clubhouse Manager at Shawnee Country Club, I have decided to cut my teeth with a brand new restaurateur group in our first venture, Rouge Bistro (6060 Renaissance Place, Toledo).

It is upscale dining at its best and we hope to open our second restaurant in the next two years. Hopefully I will be looking for some graduates from the Hospitality Management program at TU very soon.”

Chris Barbuto, Class of 2001, and Hilary French Barbuto, Class of 2002, Heath, Ohio, announced the birth of their new baby girl, Talia, born in June. Chris is a Detective for the Licking County Sheriff’s Office and Hilary works in the Advertising Department for the Newspaper Network of Central Ohio.

Rod Daniel, Class of 2003, Woodmore, Ohio, recently accepted a position in special education with the Woodmore School District.

Daniel is a graduate of the University of Findlay and has begun to work on his master’s degree at the University of Findlay.

Ruth Highlander Watson, MCJ 2004, Bellevue, Ohio, was married in 2006. She is employed by the Seneca County Department of Job and Family Services.

Jamie Nichole Wells Wilson, MCJ 2004, New Alexandria, Ohio, started a position with the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School as Criminal Justice Instructor for juniors and seniors.

Deputy Chief John C. DeCarlo, MCJ 2005, Branford, Connecticut, was appointed to Police Chief of the Branford Police Department.

DeCarlo began

his career with the Branford Police Department as a part-time patrol officer in 1977. In 1978, he joined the department full-time.

Shortly after,

he started training with the State Bureau of Identification, becoming a finger print expert. DeCarlo achieved certification as a crime scene technician in 1981 and was promoted to the detective division.

Anthony Dworznik, Class of 2005 and Erica Smith, Class of 2005, were married in May. Anthony is currently employed by Crimcheck.com, and Erica is employed by PrincetonOne as a Technology Specialist.

www.tiffin.edu

>

37

tell us about yourself >

ClassScene

Beth Souter Hussey, Class of 2005, Maineville, Ohio, writes, “I

Kristen Gibson, Class of 2007,

am a 2005 Graduate of Tiffin University. I was in a Fast Track co-

Kettering, Ohio, was named wom-

hort that met at Terra Community College. My family and I moved

en’s tennis coach and instructor at

to Cincinnati in 2006 and I became employed as the Assistant

the University of Dayton. In 2006,

to the Director of Athletics at the University of Cincinnati. I owe

she was a NAIA regional champion

my employment at UC to the degree I received in 2005. Without

in tennis and a national champion-

my business degree, I would have not been considered for the

ship participant.

position.”

Jennifer Martin, Class of 2005, Delaware, Ohio, writes, “I have accepted a promotion and will be transferring back to the Depart-

Jacquelyn Laird McClure, Class of 2007, Fremont, Ohio, is self

ment of Administrative Services (from the Department of Rehab

employed with Birchard Lawn Care in Fremont. Her husband,

& Corrections). I will be supervisor of the Position Management

Aaron is a Realtor with Bolte Real Estate. They have two children,

Unit, part of the Human Resources Division, Support Center.”

Cody (age 17), and Carlie (age 14).

Kristina Schweikert, Class of 2006, Adrian, Michigan, has been

Lesley Roush, Class of 2007, Marblehead, Ohio, is Advancement

named head softball coach at Adrian College. This will be her first

Coordinator for The Lakeside Association in Lakeside, Ohio.

softball head-coaching job after serving as a graduate assistant for Siena Heights University last year. “I feel good about the opportunity to be a part of this program and all the positive changes at Adrian,” she said.

Tell Us TUbhg Yourself

www.tiffin.edu

TU ba g[X Road If yo u a r e a n O h io r e s i dent , y ou c an s how pride in T i f f i n U n i v e r s i t y t h r o u g h t h e C o l l e g i a t e L i c e nse P l ate P r ogram spon s o r e d b y t h e St at e of O h i o .

The c o s t t o p a r t i c i pat e i n t he pr o g r a m ( i n a ddition to any nor mal r enewal f ees) is $ 3 5 annually. Of this $35 a n n u a l fe e , $ 2 5 i s di r ec t ed t o T i f f i n U n iv ersity in the f or m of a c haritable donation to the General Scho l a r s h i p F u n d i n y o u r n a m e.

If yo u h a v e q u e s t i o n s r e g ar di ng t h e Co l l e g i ate Plate Pr ogram , please c ontac t TU ’ s Alumni R elation s Of fice at 419.448.3282 or y o u r l o c al Bur eau o f Motor Vehic les.

38

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

our deepest sympathies >

1930’s

InMemoriam Stanley Tinkovicz, Class of 1948, Fremont, Ohio, passed away in 2007.

He

1990’s

served in the US Navy during WWII were Mildred Theresa Wagner Cotter, Class

he received the Good Conduct Medal, Asi-

Trina Marie Emshoff, Class of 1993,

of 1935, Clintonville, Ohio.

atic Pacific Medal, WWII Victory Medal

formerly of Tiffin, passed away in July in

and American Area Medal.

He worked

Fort Myers, Florida. She was a mortgage

Irene Craun Semer, Class of 1939,

for National Farm Machine in Bellevue for

broker at Florida Mortgage Trust and a

passed away in August.

five years prior to working for the Whirl-

member of the Villas Elementary School

pool Corporation for twenty-seven years

PTA in Fort Myers.

in various management positions until

1940’s Juanita R. Stein, Class of 1943, Tiffin,

he retired in 1979. He was a Sandusky County Commissioner from 1981 to 1985.

He and his wife, Luella, owned a farm.

2000’s

Ohio, passed away in August. Along with

Michael Yurmanovich, Class of 2003,

her husband, she owned and operated

Avon Lake, Ohio, passed away in 2006.

Tiffin Glass and Mirror for more than 20

1960’s

A life-long Avon Lake resident, he worked as the Quality Manager for Parker Hanni-

years. She was a realtor for Walton Realty, a member of Tiffin Eagles Auxiliary

Steven Rick-

Aerie 402 and Lady Knights and Friends.

er, Class of

fin Hydraulic Valve Corporation in Elyria.

Tif-

1967, Maxine M. Benfer, Class of 1943, Re-

fin,

public, Ohio, passed away in September.

passed away

She was employed by the Tiffin Glass-

in 2006.

A

house until it closed and helped her hus-

member

of

band on the family farm until they retired

Phi

Theta

in 1992.

Pi

frater-

nity,

Steven

Ohio,

Earl J. Shultz, Class of 1940, Tiffin, Ohio,

served in the Army during the Vietnam

passed away in October.

War as a Sergeant in Army Intelligence.

He received his bachelor’s degree from

Erben Kistler, Class of 1942, Akron,

the University of Findlay and a master’s

Ohio, passed away in 2006. Erben was

degree from Bowling Green State Univer-

retired from Goodyear Tire and Rubber

sity. He taught his whole career at Wil-

Company after 40 years of service.

lard High School as Head of the Business Department.

www.tiffin.edu

>

39

13th annual >

Hall of Fame In

October,

T if fin

Univer sity

held

its

13t h

Annual Hall of Fam e Induction Cer em ony i n t he Gillm or Center. The ev ent , at t ended by nearl y 400 Dr agon suppor t er s, always r epr es ents the high point of t he Dr agons at hlet ic year and i s held in conjunct ion wit h t he annual Ho mec omi ng fest iv it ies. This year, fiv e for m er at hletes w er e honor ed - Kim Novotny Schwar tz, J ef f N unn, Dean Joseph, Am y Pence, and Gr egg Pr enz l i n.

Hall of Fame g[\f 2007 Amy Pence Jeff Nunn Dean Joseph Gregg Prenzlin Kim Novotny Schwartz

40

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

KIM (NOVOTNY) SCHWARTZ

JEFF NUNN

Kim (Novotny) Schwartz was one of

mind when talking about the 1993

a number of two-sport athletes that

and 1994 Tiffin University football

flourished for Tiffin University in the

team usually revolve the offense

1990s. The difference now is that

- running backs Brian Diliberto and

Schwartz joins only Dana (Kuhlman)

Kerrick Franklin, quarterbacks Sean

Sendelbach and Lisa (Lucius) Beeker

McKinney and Matt Dasher, or offen-

as Hall of Fame inductees who ex-

sive linemen like Chris Deal and Craig

celled at both volleyball and softball.

Derr.

While sharing setter duties with Sen-

But it should be noted that those

delbach, Schwartz managed to garner two Mid-Ohio Conference

teams played great defense as well. Jeff Nunn was the premier

honors. She also is fourth in career assists and holds the season

member of the linebacking corps on those squads.

The images that normally jump to

record for most aces. While playing for the Dragons, the team compiled a 115-51 overall record, the best string of success in

Over Nunn’s four seasons with the Dragons, he earned NAIA All-

the program’s history.

American honors while leading the team to national rankings and recognition. While also earning All-District 22 and Mid-States Foot-

Schwartz’s excellence, though, was even more evident on the

ball Association accolades, Jeff registered 229 tackles during the

softball diamond. She garnered three more All-Conference honors

1993 and 1994 seasons. Not coincidentally, the Dragons reached

for the softball team and was a mainstay of two championship

the NAIA Tournament during those years, including reaching the

squads.

Elite Eight in 1994.

In her sophomore season, the Dragons won the Mid-Ohio Confer-

Among his unforgettable moments were the Dragons victory over

ence Championship. She followed this up in her senior season

the University of Findlay in 1993 and a heartbreaking last second

by leading the Dragons to the Bi-District Championship, sending

loss on a Hail Mary pass play against Westminster in 1994, a

the Dragons to the NAIA National Tournament for the first time

game the Dragons lost after coming back in the final minutes to

in school history. It was the first National Tournament trip for any

retake the lead.

women’s athletic program at TU. “Those were special teams,” Nunn said. “We achieved things that “It was a special season in 1993,” Schwartz said. “We played at

can never be duplicated in the same way ever again. We helped to

Highland Park, which was a very different experience than what

get the team noticed in the nation for the first time.”

the current players enjoy. There were so many great athletes on those teams, not just Sendelbach and Beeker, but players like Angie (Shardo) Nunn and Jenny Kane. I’ll never forget the fact that due to the playoffs there were five of us that missed our com-

DEAN JOSEPH

mencement in 1993. The school did a special commencement

Men’s soccer was the first Tiffin Uni-

ceremony in the courtyard just for us. It had music, flowers, and

versity sport to garner the university

the procession, everything like a normal commencement. It was

national attention at the NAIA level.

very unique for the five of us to have that opportunity. Things like

The list of standout men’s soccer play-

that made those years very special.”

ers that have been inducted to the Tiffin University Hall of Fame reads like a roadmap of the program’s history.

Dean Joseph’s sterling playing career adds another chapter to that storied history.

www.tiffin.edu

>

41

13th annual >

Hall of Fame

Dean earned NAIA All-American honors while leading TU to the

Rudi O’Brien, Jen Weaver, Shelley Weinhaus, Carrie Schroeder,

1995 Mid-Ohio Conference Championship. Along the way he also

Kristi Campbell, Becky Mertz. That was the best thing about those

earned two All-Great Lakes Region and All-District 22 honors, and

years, the things I’ll never forget.”

three All-Conference citations.

Tiffin posted a 59-29 overall mark during Joseph’s career, includ-

GREGG PRENZLIN

ing a 26-4 mark in the Mid-Ohio Conference. He finished his career

It’s one thing to be the best pitcher

fifth in goals scored and also excelled in the classroom, earning

in school history. It’s another thing to

NAIA Scholar Athlete honors.

do it and be clueless about it.

“We had some true powerhouse teams that suffered serious inju-

Gregg Prenzlin broke nearly every ma-

ries in the postseason, which kept us from going further than we

jor pitching record in the Dragons re-

should have,” Joseph remembered. “It seemed we would have

cord books during his TU career. But

huge winning streaks, and then get hit with injuries that crippled

he had no idea he was doing it until

us. My senior year I remember we reached the Regional Semifinals

his career was over.

and came back to force two overtimes. We eventually lost on penalty kicks, but it exemplified the kind of team we had, teams that

“I didn’t know I had set any records

never quit no matter what we faced.”

until after I had left,” Prenzlin recalled. “I never felt like I was doing anything special. I was just one pitcher on the staff who always felt that he had to continually prove himself.”

AMY PENCE Amy Pence saw quite a bit over her

Prenzlin proved himself over and over as a Dragons pitcher, setting

career playing women’s soccer for Tif-

the career record for wins with 23. He also holds the career re-

fin University. The program was only

cords for strikeouts, earned run average, and win-loss percentage

in its second year when she joined it,

as well as the single season strikeout record.

and before she left it had garnered national attention. Amy Pence was one

Prenzlin played against NAIA powers Ohio Dominican and Mt.

of the reasons the program reached

Vernon Nazarene, two teams that routinely appeared at the NAIA

the levels it did.

National Tournament. The rivalries with those two teams, along with Findlay, always made the postseason an adventure for TU.

Pence garnered NAIA All-American

Prenzlin, along with pitcher Ryan McDaniel, gave the Dragons a top

honors during her career, and joins

notch tandem to throw at opponents.

Rudi (O’Brien) Noschang as a women’s soccer Hall of Fame inductee. During her four seasons, Amy earned three All-Great Lakes

Prenzlin earned three All-Mid-Ohio Conference honors over his four

Region, All-District 22, and All-Mid-Ohio Conference citations.

seasons, an accomplishment that is even more impressive considering the number of pitchers from Ohio Dominican and Mt. Vernon

Pence is fourth in career assists and is still in the top 10 in career

that regularly made the All-Conference squad.

goals and total points. Following her playing career, Amy served as Assistant Women’s Soccer Coach for TU for two seasons, helping

“Ryan McDaniel really helped me become a better pitcher by push-

to build the program not only as a player but as a coach. According

ing and competing with me,” Prenzlin said. “We pushed each other

to Pence, she could have accomplished even more.

constantly to get better. I remember players like Darby Roggow, Joe Kalhorn, and Alfredo Ortiz, who were just a few of the special

“I was known as the Crossbar Queen because I hit the crossbar so

players that helped me during my playing days. We played at High-

many times on my shots,” Pence laughed. “I suppose I could have

land Park, which was very different than what the players have

had a lot more goals. It’s funny what I remember. I remember a

now. I’m proud to have been part of a team that helped move the

lot of bad weather at Highland Park. I remember the intense rivalry

program forward.”

we had with Findlay. I remember breaking my nose on a corner kick during a playoff game against Findlay and wanting to continue, but the trainer wouldn’t let me. Of course, what I remember most are the friendships and players from those years. People like 42

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

sports at TU >

SportsScene

Football Wrapup

tions (42 catches, 364 yards, 7 TD). Junior Dyshaun Edwards led the team with 61 catches for 939 yards and 9 touchdowns, while senior LaMar Tipton finished with 44 catches for 565 yards and 3 TDs. The offensive line set the tone for the offense throughout the season, and allowed only ten sacks in eleven games. Senior

The Tiffin University Football program closed out the season in

kicker Andrew Breen went 9-12 on field goals and connected on

impressive fashion, defeating Central State 62-26 and clinching

50 of 55 extra point attempts, while freshman punter John McCoy

the 2007 Great Lakes Football Conference Championship. The

averaged 36.9 yards on 46 punts.

Dragons finished the season with a record of 9-2 overall and 5-0 in the GLFC. Earlier in the season, the team avenged last year’s

Defensively, the team forced two turnovers per game and accu-

season ending loss to Saint Joseph’s that cost the team the 2006

mulated 35 sacks during the season. The veteran squad was led

GLFC crown. The Dragons will now leave the GLFC for the Great

by senior linebackers Parris Burt (137 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 FF) and

Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) for the 2008

Steve Yarbrough (113 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 5 sacks). Defen-

season, having posted a two-year mark of 19-3 overall and 9-1

sive linemen Drew Douthit and Wyatt Thames led the team with

in the GLFC.

nine sacks while senior Luke Seal finished third on the team with 105 tackles. In the defensive backfield, junior Andrew Manocchio (53 tackles, 11 pass defenses) tied with Yarbrough for the team lead with three interceptions, while Troy Brookins led the team with 14 pass defenses in addition to gathering 31 tackles.

Despite key losses on both sides of the football, Coach Nate Cole was encouraged by what he saw from his team this season. “We were able to play sound football the entire season and earn a conference championship, which was very satisfying. Next year will be a big challenge for us.” The team went 1-1 this season against current GLIAC members, with a 50-6 road win against Gannon and a well-played 31-14 road loss to Hillsdale. The Dragons finished the 2007 season ranked 27th in the national American Football Coaches Association poll.

Junior Matt Root had one of the best seasons ever at quarterback for the GLFC Champion Dragons, who finished 9-2. Root set new single season records for completions, yards, and touchdowns.

Men’s Soccer Recap The Tiffin University Men’s Soccer team concluded its first season of NCAA Division II competition with a 10-6-1 overall record. The team managed a strong 4-1 finish, including a 3-0 Homecoming

The Dragons outscored their opponents by an average of more

victory against Roberts Wesleyan and a thrilling 6-5 win to close

than twenty points per game this season while running a bal-

out the season. The team will enter the Great Lakes Intercollegiate

anced offensive attack. The team piled up 2,490 yards and 26

Athletic Conference for the 2008 season, and established itself as

touchdowns rushing this season, led by junior Pierce Wade (1,006

a team that is ready to compete for a conference championship

yds, 6.1 ypc, 11 TD) and sophomore Alvin McKnight (570 yds,

after falling 2-3 to GLIAC champion Gannon and defeating GLIAC

5.5 ypc, 4 TD). The passing attack was led by junior Matt Root,

runner-up Northwood 3-1.

who completed 66% of his passes while throwing for 2,396 yards and 27 touchdowns. Senior Donnie Johnson contributed in every

The Dragons will return six of their top seven goal scorers from

way on offense, finishing third in rushing yards (464 yds, 7 TD),

this season, with Mircea Handru (4 goals, 3 assists) the lone

throwing two touchdown passes, and finishing third in recep-

graduating senior from the group. Handru was selected for the

www.tiffin.edu

>

43

sports at TU >

SportsScene

Senior Mircea Handru led the Dragons defense this season, earning Second Team honors in both the Great Lakes Region and the All-Independent squad. TU finished with a 10-6-1 mark.

The team will bring back all but two graduating seniors from this year’s squad, with Niquita Amirkhanian (4 goals, 6 assists) and Katherine Murphy (2 goals, 1 assist) leaving behind a tradition of success . Emily Goldsberry led the team with 12 goals and 26 overall points, with fellow juniors Renee Cain (5g, 6a), Ciara Gossett (4g, 3a), and Lauren Wilhelm (4g, 6a) contributing to the team’s 2.16 goals per game average. Also returning will be sophomore Abby Grieser, who tended goal for the Lady Dragons and allowed only 1.12 goals per game, and backup goalkeeper Emily Demorest, who allowed two goals in seven appearances.

All-Great Lakes Regional team. Also graduating is the team’s starting goalkeeper, Mike Rutkowski, who saved over eighty percent of

Sophomore Felicia Ruiz earned Second Team All-Great Lakes Region honors for the women’s soccer team, which finished 11-6-1.

The Dragons also cracked the Top 10 in the regional rankings in their first year of Division II independent competition.

shots on goal and managed a solid 1.76 goals allowed per game average. Sophomores Tony Iyayi and Nick Dreshaj led the Dragons with 10 goals scored, while junior Adi Vlad was third on the team with 7 goals and 18 points.

With a solid returning core of players, Coach Rudy Brownell has high expectations for his team as they enter the GLIAC. “We’ve had a chance to compete against GLIAC and Division II teams the past few years, so as long as we continue to work hard and improve we expect great things for next season.”

The team’s veteran squad will be prepared for even tougher com-

Women’s Soccer Recap The Tiffin University Women’s Soccer team concluded its first season of NCAA Division II competition with an 11-6-1 overall record.

The Lady Dragons closed out the season with three consecutive overtime games, including a thrilling match against #1 ranked

petition next year. “We have a lot of work ahead of us in the offseason,” said Coach Rudy Brownell, “and need to get faster and be more consistent. If we put the proper work in, some good things can happen next season.”

Cross Country Review

Grand Valley State (NCAA II) and a 2-1 victory over #10 ranked Ohio Dominican (NAIA).The team compiled an impressive 9-5-1 re-

The Tiffin University Cross Country season came to a close with the

cord against NCAA Division II competition, and was ranked as high

Men’s team earning their second consecutive ICAA Championship

as 10th in the Great Lakes Region. The team will look to build on

and the Women’s squad finishing in second place among all NCAA

its 4-2-1 record this year against GLIAC opponents as they enter

Division II Independent schools.

the conference for the 2008 season.

44

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

Men’s Basketball Preview The Tiffin University Men’s Basketball team will enter its first season of full-fledged NCAA Division II membership with some major additions to a Dragon squad that must adapt quickly to a higher level of competition. “We are a young team that will have to work hard on both ends of the floor for us to be successful,” said secondyear Head Coach Rodney Martin.

The team will return only one starter from last year’s team, but Coach Martin is excited about the team’s possibilities this year.

“The guys that are here are a talented group that will need to pull together as a team early. The new players we’ve added along with the returners should give us a chance to compete at this level,” Senior Chad Roberts became Tiffin’s second NCAA All-American in cross country, reaching the National Tournament and finishing 28th overall. He was also an All-Independent selection

The men’s team had strong individual and team performances throughout the year, and earned their second consecutive championship by recording seven of the top nine times in the nation among independent schools. The team finished 16th out of 37 teams at the Southern Stampede, held at Missouri Southern University, with Chad Roberts finishing with a time of 25:02. At the Otterbein Invitational, the team finished third out of sixteen teams and placed three runners in the top sixteen at the event. The team

said Martin.

Sophomore Alex Strok leads a young cast of Dragons into the 2007-08 season. Strok earned All-Freshman honors last season but will be looked to for leadership on a talented but new group of players this season.

finished fourth out of ten teams at the All-Ohio Championships at Ohio Wesleyan, with Roberts (26:07), and sophomores Jason Bumb (27:34) and Jeremy Lee (27:41) leading the charge for the Dragons.

Roberts and Lee were the top two runners named to the All-ICAA team, along with Bumb, senior Justin Setty, sophomore Chris Finn, and juniors Adam Nunns and Thomas Buxton.

The women’s team narrowly missed out on the ICAA Championship, finishing in second place behind Flagler College. The team managed to place four runners in the ICAA top ten. Despite finishing in 29th place out of 40 teams at the Southern Stampede, the runners had solid times with sophomore Jessica Clark (19:08) leading the way in 63rd place, followed by freshmen Heidi Kiesel (20:16) and Erin Casey (20:37). At the All-Ohio meet, the team placed four runners in the top 45, led by Clark in 13th place with a time of 20:29, Kiesel in 27th place (21:46), Alison Ward in 42nd place (23:30) and Casey in 45th place (23:38). Clark earned her second consecutive All-ICAA selection, along with Casey and Ward earning their first ICAA honors. Heidi Kiesel was also named the ICAA Outstanding Freshmen.

The lone starter from last year’s team, sophomore Alex Strok, will return as the team’s resident sharpshooter. Strok averaged 10.3 pts per game while shooting 35% from three-point range in his first year as a Dragon. Freshman point guard Brian Scott (ChaminadeJulienne HS) will join Strok in the backcourt, with 6-3 freshman shooting guard Geryn Reese providing additional support on the wing. Sophomore Darryl Stinson (8.7 mpg, 2.5 ppg, 1.3 rpg) will start at forward and will be working in the paint along with 6’5 freshman center Rafael Cuellar. www.tiffin.edu

>

45

sports at TU >

SportsScene

Providing some experience off the bench will be guards Kenny Pascley and Josh Diaz. Diaz, a 6-2 junior guard, started thirteen games last year for the Dragons while averaging 12.2 minutes and 2.8 points per game. Pascley, a 6-1 senior guard, averaged just under ten minutes and four points in fourteen games last year. “Each of these guys provided great energy for us last year,” said Coach Martin, “and hopefully they can continue to improve with another year under their belts.”

Joining Diaz and Pascley off the bench for the Dragons are four newcomers. 6-5 Joe Horton (Akron Copley HS) and 6-6 Darryle

Junior Kylene Spiegel earned All-Conference and All-Independent honors last year. She, along with juniors Leanne Lucius and Fallon Sanborn, will lead Tiffin under new Head Coach Pam Oswald as they enter the Division II independent ranks in 2007-08.

Miller will provide additional backcourt support for Coach Martin, while 6-6 freshman Ryan Webb and 6-8 junior Mouhamdou Kane will help the Dragons control the boards. “All four of these guys are pushing for minutes early on in the season,” said Coach Martin, “and can be major assets for our team.”

The team will compete as an NCAA Division II independent this year, and will be facing most of their future GLIAC foes in a challenging schedule for the young Dragons. “Having these guys get comfortable working together and executing on both ends of the

(6.1 ppg, 2.8 rpg) will also start for the Dragons, with sophomore

floor will dictate our success this season,” said Coach Martin.

Emily Woodruff playing a key role off the bench (1.5 ppg, 1.7 rpg).

“We’re looking to give these guys time to mature and grow, and

Junior transfer Megan Fletcher (Florence, KY) will join Spiegel in

take a positive step forward for this program.”

the starting backcourt after transferring from Kentucky Wesleyan where she led the team with 13.4 ppg. Freshman Lindsey McCabe

Women’s Basketball Preview The Tiffin University Women’s Basketball team enters their first season of exclusive NCAA Division II membership with a new head coach and a new attitude. Head Coach Pam Oswald takes over the reigns for the Lady Dragons and brings along her successful Division II experience from Wheeling Jesuit, where she served as an assistant coach for the past three seasons. “It is an exciting time to be at Tiffin University,” said Coach Oswald, “and I want to help take this program to the next level.”

The Lady Dragons are coming off a 14-15 season that saw the team reach the AMC Semifinals before falling to conference runner-up Geneva. A solid returning group of players will make the transition for the program to Division II easier. Junior point guard Kylene Spiegel was the team’s leading scorer (12.1 ppg), in addition to leading the way in assists (4.7 apg) and steals (1.9).

Fellow junior Leanne Lucius will join Spiegel for her third year as a Dragon starter after both earned All-ICAA selections last season. Lucius finished second on the team with 11.4 points and led the team with 7.0 rebounds per game. Junior Fallon Sanborn 46

CHALLENGE

>

Winter 07|08

(Cincinnati, OH) will work the paint with Woodruff after completing a solid high school career at Archbishop McNicholas.

The Lady Dragon bench will have a combination of experience and youth, with junior guard Megan Jesulaitis (5.4 ppg, 1.3 rpg) leading the charge. Jesulaitis and Fallon Sanborn combined for 65 of the team’s three-point field goals last season, finishing second and third, respectively, behind Spiegel. Sophomore Alexis Karel will help control the paint for Tiffin after finishing third on the team last year with 9.3 points and 5.0 rebounds per game.

Newcomers Elyse Schlump (6-1), Melissa Tejkl (6-1), and Jackie Allen (6-0) will be competing for time at the post positions and providing the team with quality size off the bench. Freshman Holly Focke (Cincinnati, OH) will provide the team with additional depth at the guard positions, while Mallory Yajko (Calcutta, OH) will look for playing time at the forward position.

Coach Oswald looks for her young team to mesh well early to compete against a GLIAC-heavy schedule. “We need to work hard night in and night out with an all-out team effort to be successful,” said Oswald. “We’ve preached a team focus in practice and getting everyone on the same page for the beginning of our season.”

TaW Earn Income Help TU Students As a nation of generous people and friends of Tiffin University, we

out your life. It will not fluctuate with the economy, so you will know

all understand the importance of charitable endeavors in our soci-

exactly how much income you will receive. What’s more, you have

ety. As a result, many people support our goals and our academic

no investment worries because the annuity payments are guaran-

programs. However, our natural instincts also tell us that we must

teed until your death. Many TU alumni and friends are using this

first be concerned with our personal and family security before we

attractive program because it allows you to make a significant gift

consider being of financial assistance to Tiffin University.

to the University and still get the equivalent of the income from the money as long as you or your spouse survive. The Charitable Gift

The Charitable Gift Annuity makes it possible for you to satisfy this

Annuity at Tiffin University is highly flexible and very personalized

dual objective of personal and family security and financial support

to your needs.

of Tiffin University. Our Charitable Gift Annuity allows you to make an immediate gift to us without loss of income. In many instances,

Please call Michael A. Grandillo, Vice President for Development

the gift annuity can actually increase your spendable income.

and Public Affairs at 419.448.3282 or email mgrandil@tiffin.edu.

In exchange for your gift of money, real property or securities,

A Tiffin University Charitable Gift Annuity can:

Tiffin University will pay you a certain specified annuity for life. The

N

Increase your spendable income

annual amount of annuity is fixed at the time of the gift, usually

N

Provide joint and survivor annuities and deferred gift annuities

more than typical dividends or interest and remains stable through-

N

Ease capital gain taxes

www.tiffin.edu

>

47

TIFFIN

NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID TIFFIN UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY 155 Miami Street TifямБn, Ohio 44883 800.968.6446

www.tiffin.edu