Fall 2011 - Urbana University

A magazine for Urbana University alumni and friends | Fall 2011
Urbana
update
TaILGaTInG time
UU Gears Up for Homecoming

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“More than any other time of the
year, campus needs the support of
alumni and friends on Homecoming.
You are encouraged to reconnect
with your Urbana family to support
campus, students, and our favorite
Blue Knights.”
Kat Steiner, Director of Alumni Relations,
pictured by the entrance sign of the
Urbana University stadium located
behind the Warren G. Grimes Center.
ii | Urbana Update | Fall 2011
Hello from the Office of Alumni Relations
Dear alumni and Friends:
During a job interview, I was once asked about areas for improvement. I
responded that my athletic prowess was lacking. Without missing a beat,
I counterpointed that my voice is loud. I’m a heck of a cheerleader and
the exact kind of fan you want sitting in the bleachers. Student athletes
have not only my admiration, but also my unwavering support and I
have learned that the relationship between players and fans is symbiotic.
Homecoming is on October 15. It’s a time for players and fans to
come together. More than any other time of the year, campus needs the
support of alumni and friends on Homecoming. You are encouraged to
reconnect with your Urbana family to support campus, students, and our
favorite blue Knights. See page 12 to learn about Homecoming events.
Football players from the ’05, ’07, and ’09 have a special invitation. Join us
during third quarter for a group photo and then come to the beer garden for a
drink on us. These teams are being called the three most successful teams in
program history; we want to recognize their contributions to Urbana’s history.
This issue of the Urbana Update is a celebration of voices---students, alumni,
faculty, and staff members engaging the world and taking time to tell us about
how Urbana changes lives. It’s a theme that has always been connected with
Urbana’s history. We hope you take the time to read this magazine, reflect on
your blue Knight experience, and make a date with an old friend for October 15.
Sincerely,
Kat a. Steiner
Director of alumni relations
Urbana University

EDITOR
Christina bruun-Horrigan
cbruunhorrigan@urbana.edu
DESIGNER & UNIVERSITY
PHOTOGRAPHER
Melissa Closser
mclosser@urbana.edu
UNIVERSITY ALUMNI RELATIONS
OFFICE
Williams Hall
Phone: (937) 484-1282
Fax: (937) 484-1322
Email: alumni@urbana.edu
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
Kat Steiner
ksteiner@urbana.edu
VICE PRESIDENT OF
INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
& COMMUNICATIONS
James Thornton
jthornton@urbana.edu
WEB SITE
www.urbana.edu
URBANA UNIVERSITY MISSION:
Urbana University shall offer a liberal arts
education in a small college environment
emphasizing student learning through
individual attention, excellence in
instruction, career-oriented programs, and
critical reflection on moral and ethical
values.
URBANA UPDATE is published two times
a year by Urbana University, Urbana,
Ohio. Opinions expressed are those
of contributors and do not necessarily
represent those of the University.
Send address and email address
changes to Urbana Update, Urbana
University, 579 College Way, Urbana,
Ohio 43078 or alumni@urbana.edu.
TAILGATING time
2
6
12
20
On the cover
FEaTUrE: a Student at any age
Campus news
alumni Happenings
athletics
Photograph of members of the 2009 football team on the field at the Urbana
University stadium. Members of the 2005, 2007, and 2009 football teams
have a special invitation to Homecoming this year. See story on page 20.
Note: We have made every effort to provide names and captions for photos. Please accept
our apologies for those that are incomplete.
Urbana University admits students of any race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, age, disability,
gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally
accorded or made available to students at the University. It does not discriminate on the basis of race,
color, religion, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status in the
administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, and other
university-administered programs.
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 1

A STUDENT
a STUDEnT at any age
adult students working towards an undergraduate
degree is a nationwide growing trend. In 2007 the
national Center for Education Statistics reported that 38%
of the 18 million college students were over the age of 25.
The student population at Urbana is no different.
Urbana has long been ahead of national movements to enroll
adult students with our adult and Continuing Education
(aCE) program. adult students are embraced on campus
and at all five locations, however, the Dayton-Kettering
site has served the Miami-Valley for more than 30 years
and exclusively caters to adults. Director of the adult and
Continuing Education Program, Dr. Judith Wherry, and a
team of talented staff work hard to continually attract adult
learners. Wherry stated, “Urbana University has offered
adult classes continuously since 1949 when classes were
offered only on main campus. Completion of a bachelor’s
degree in business, human services, criminal justice, and
2 2 | | Urbana Update Update | | Fall 2011
nursing has been the specific goal of ACE for the past 10
years. as we look forward, new degree programs, offering
distance learning, and online classes are on the horizon.”
Urbana reports that 72% of our adult students were female
during the 2010 - 2011 academic year. Challenges faced
by adult students are often different than their traditional
student counterparts: full time employment, parenthood,
financial independence, family obligations. These are the
realities of our adult students and their motivation to earn a
college degree is simply inspiring.
Learn about three recent graduates: rich Ebert ’11, Mike
Harper ’07, Mba ’09, and Dave Jenkins ’11, who preserved
on a journey towards higher education despite the odds. ■
at any age
Above: ACE student Eric Skabla (center) gets his photo taken with Director of Adult and Continuing Education Dr. Judith Wherry (left) and Dayton Site
Coordinator Melinda Nowikowski ‘09 (right) at the 2011 Alpha Sigma Lambda honors banquet held in the UU Student Center. The Alpha Sigma Lambda honors
ACE students who have a GPA of 3.6 or higher.

DAVE
“ Let’s meet in the Student Center. You’ll know it’s me
because I’ll either be wearing a John Deere hat or one
from Disney World,” stated recent graduate Dave Jenkins.
One might think the hat selections odd, but they make
perfect sense for a farmer of 17 years who is also an early
childhood education major. an ornery smile crosses his
face when he says, “Let’s just put it this way, the Education
Department knows me.” and they should. Dave is an adult
student in his fifty’s who has been chipping away at his
college degree for 12 years.
Dave’s education journey began in 2000 at Edison
Community College. In 2006 he transferred credits to
Urbana. Working full time in the swine industry, he was
responsible for 750 sows and transporting up to 300 piglets
a week. He attended night classes and said, “I figured it
would take at least eight years, but I never planned on 12.
When I started college, I am sure there were doubters and I
was here year after year.” He shakes his head and says, “If I
had a dollar every time someone asked, ‘are you still going
to school?’”.
among his biggest fans are Dave’s wife and children*.
His wife, Julie Jenkins, has taught for 28 years in the Triad
school district. “Without my wife Julie, this degree couldn’t
jenkins
happen,” Dave simply stated. Dave is also the father of
four, nathan (23), Drew (21), Danielle (18) and Mary (14).
Dave points out that Mary was only two years old when he
started college.
Dave’s determination is impressive. “I can count on one
hand the number of classes that I didn’t attend. I was afraid
I was going to miss something,” he says with an element of
pride.
He tears up when thinking about the last 12 years and
graduation day. So much has happened. “It’s been a long
journey. I’m glad this day is here. I never thought it would
come. This degree is such a sense of accomplishment. It
means a lot.” It’s hard not to be emotional after more than
a decade of work.
What is next for Dave? He plans to return to the classroom,
but in the role of Mr. Jenkins, a teacher. Urbana University
is confident that Dave will be an exceptional mentor of
students and that youth will benefit from someone who
understands the value and is committed to education. ■
*Dave is pictured with his family above.
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 3

MIKE
4 4 | | Urbana Urbana Update Update | | Fall Fall 2011 2011
harper
Michael (Mike) Harper ’07, Mba ’09 is a busy man
who is in high demand. During an hour in his office
meeting space, he is paged numerous times, three employees
knocked at the door, and his smart phone buzzed frantically.
Even though it was just another day for Mike, it is clear that
he is a valuable asset to his company.
after nine years at Urbana and working full-time, Mike is a
man who can get a job done. He will tell you, “The funny
thing about Urbana University is that I was accepted into the
institution the year I graduated from high school; in 1973.”
However, life had other plans for Mike. He got married and
raised a family. He committed to a job and travelled for
more than 15 years in the service field and then served as a
field superintendent for another ten.
In 2001, when the opportunity to go to college at the age
of 55 came his way, Mike knew it was a crossroad and he
took the path less traveled. “My motivation to continue
my education resulted from my decision to change my life
for the better. In 1998, I decided to change my life for the
better by remarrying, getting off the road in my job, and
going back to school. The positive results of these decisions
are a much more stable home life and more gratification
from my career - no regrets here! Most of the credit goes
to my wife, Joyce’s unwavering support through my trials
and tribulations in both the undergraduate and graduate
programs,” he says.
He started his bachelor’s degree at Urbana and then went
straight into the Mba program. “The decision to obtain
a degree was one of the best decisions of my life,” says
Mike. “My degree(s) have helped me in my career in many
ways, such as increased confidence in decision making,
sharpening my leadership skills, and gaining a broader base
of understanding in dealing with people and problems.”
Mike saw advantages to being an adult student. “I was
45 years old and a mid-career student. The advantage of
attending college as an adult was that I could immediately
put concepts into practice in my position as an operations
manager. also, as an adult I have much more patience and
I am more goal-oriented then I would have been right out of
high school,” he said.
after earning his undergraduate degree, the graduate degree
was even more attractive to him. Mike was among the
first graduates of Urbana University’s MBA program in
2009. He is satisfied with his decisions and confident that
his Mba allows him to operate at a higher altitude in the
workforce. “The landscape is different when you’ve had
the opportunity to study and learn about business. It is a
different picture when you get to see a bigger piece of the
pie. You see things on the macro level and learn how to
trouble shoot from a different navigation point,” says Mike.
Even with the Mba, he considers himself a lifelong
learner who carries the torch of knowledge. What does
he tell others? “My advice to others about my Urbana U
experience would be to be bold and take charge of your life.
Quit blaming others for your lot in life. a well established
university, such as Urbana, has the experienced faculty to
teach you concepts that will change your life.” ■

The first time rich Ebert was on campus, he was two
weeks old. His father and mother, Harry and Jan
Ebert, were both faculty members at Urbana and his mother
is often quoted saying, “I don’t think anyone ever leaves
Urbana. It becomes part of your soul.” With the message
ingrained in rich, he graduated from Urbana High School
in 1989 and with a performing arts scholarship in hand,
sealed the deal on his decision to attend Urbana University.
rich was a “very big fish in a small pond” in college.
rich said, “The friends that I met were great. Socially, I
excelled. I loved playing in the pep band.” However, when
rich began to work full time, he started to struggle with
attending class and the freedom college provided. He said,
“It quickly became an issue.” Many were surprised when
rich made the decision to withdraw from campus.
Life didn’t stop for rich when he left college. He got
married, fathered two children, and changed jobs several
times. rich found success in the workforce, but wasn’t
satisfied. When his children were at the age when they were
bringing home schoolwork, he found himself facing some
challenging life decisions. “I couldn’t tell them that higher
education was very important if I didn’t have a degree,” said
rich. He was out of excuses for not completing his degree
when he started working with a company that had tuition
reimbursement; the future became a little clearer for rich
and his family.
rich enrolled in Urbana, for the second time, in 2005 at the
age of 34 and began the adult and Continuing Education
program. Taking one class at a time and six years later, rich
is a 2011 graduate with his bachelor’s degree in business
Management/Human Services. With an honest approach he
will tell you, “I could have gone online; I could have gone to
Wright State, a bigger school. but I chose Urbana. I chose
it because it was close and I knew that I needed the social
interaction. I needed to be able to ask the questions and
RICH
ebert
this time be able to put my nose to the grindstone. I enjoyed
the learning and I definitely enjoyed the discussions; the
exchange of ideas between students and faculty. The adult
program is where I learned the most. It helped to have
faculty who have been in the business world. They were a
great advantage to the program.”
“It took me more than six years to complete my degree,”
rich muses without regret. The degree completion has
impacted his family, too. His wife, Lisa (pictured above,
right), is currently enrolled at Urbana and is working
towards her degree in education. Most importantly, his
children appreciate what rich and Lisa have gone through
as adult learners. He is confident in his decision to finish his
degree at Urbana and is proud that he serves as an example
for his children. ■
Featured alumni in this issue independently contacted
the Office of Alumni Relations to share their
experiences.
Want to tell us your story? Contact (937) 484-1282
or email alumni@urbana.edu for story or spotlight
consideration.
If this issue of Urbana Update is addressed to someone in your
household who has moved, please notify Alumni Relations at
(937) 484-1282 or alumni@urbana.edu.
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 5

CaP and gown
Announcing Dr. Doris Edwards, RN, Ed.D as the Winter Commencement Speaker
Urbana University is happy to announce Dr. Doris Edwards, rn, Ed.D.
will be the winter commencement speaker for the class of 2011.
Edwards’ diverse background includes:
• Member of the Ohio nurses association, the Midwest nursing research
Society and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for nursing
• Served as an Urbana University professor of nursing and the director
of the bachelor of Science in nursing Completion program at UU
where she worked to establish the our bachelor of Science in nursing
Completion Program in 2002.
• recipient of numerous awards including the Urbana University
administrator Excellence award (2004), the Southwest Ohio Council
for Higher Education (SOCHE) Teaching Excellence award (2004),
the Ohio League for nursing 2004 Pioneer in nursing award, and the
European Honor Society for nursing & Midwifery.
6 | Urbana Update | Fall 2011
Alumnae Kyle Wunderlich’05 Speaks at 2011 Convocation
Find Kyle’s welcome to the class of 2015 online by
visiting Urbana University’s You Tube channel.
Convocation is a time to welcome incoming freshmen students and
prepare them for the academic year. It includes all of the pomp and
circumstance of graduation, but gives students wisdom about academic and
personal success as a blue Knight. Mr. Kyle Wunderlich ’05 served as this
year’s Convocation speaker.
as a student, Kyle excelled in his academics and was a member of the
varsity men’s soccer team. He also served as a resident assistant, and was
a member of the Student Government association (SGa) and the Student
activities Committee (SaC).
recently, Kyle was named the general manager over a $4 million Cintas
operation in Indianapolis, Indiana.

FaCULTY/STaFF updates
Dr. David George
• Folger Shakespeare Library
Fellowship, 2010;
• Winning poem, Ohio Poetry Day
competition, published august
2010;
• Essay selected for The best
Shakespeare Essays of 2009, to be
published by Thomson Gale, Detroit, later this year;
essay for Late Shakespeare, 1608-1613, to be published
by Cambridge University Press later this year; and,
• Invitation to serve as panelist for the national
Endowment for the Humanities, Washington, D.C.
Jamie Lattimer, ‘98
attended the Ohio Valley Group
of Technical Services Librarians
Conference and the american Library
association of Ohio Conference. She
also served as the Chair for the Ohio
Private academic Libraries planning
committee, which brought 94 library
academics to Urbana’s campus.
Julie McDaniel
Published “Getting the Word Out: a
Crash Course in Program Marketing”
in the spring issue of Programming
Librarian. The article reviews
McDaniel’s experience of promoting
Urbana University’s hosting of the 2009
national traveling exhibit, “benjamin
Franklin: In Search of a better World.” McDaniel was also
was selected as one of ten librarians from throughout the
United States to attend a Council on Library and Information
resources conference at Drexel University called “archives
for the non-archivist.” The two-day workshop taught
librarians how to care for archives collections. McDaniel
expects to be able to use what she learned to clean up a
backlog of materials related to Urbana University as well
as boxes of donations received over the years related to the
Swedenborg Church.
Jennifer Midgley
Is actively committed to numerous
campus committees including: Tree
Campus USa, Staff advisory, and
the Ohio Private academic Libraries.
Midgley completed a First responder
training program held on campus.
Dr. Nancy Sweeney
Dean of the College of nursing & allied
Health, Sweeney accepted an invitation
from the Commission on Collegiate
nursing Education (CCnE) to serve
as an on-site evaluator. Established in
1996, CCnE is the premier accrediting
agency for baccalaureate and graduate
degree programs in nursing and is
nationally recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
Only 700 nurse educators and practicing nurses from across
the country currently serve as on-site evaluators for CCnE’s
peer review accreditation process.
Stay Connected!
Get the latest news and information from
Urbana’s Office of Alumni Relations with a
monthly e-newsletter.
Email alumni@urbana.edu, write us, or visit
our website to submit information today!
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 7

STUDEnT
spotlight
Jenna Bristol is more than your ordinary college
freshman, before she stepped foot onto Urbana
University’s campus, she already had a history with
the University. Her mother, Ann Fridenmaker Bristoll,
‘91 graduated from Urbana University and her father, Ed
Bristoll also attended the University.
When asked why she chose Urbana University, Jenna said,
“I first became interested in Urbana University because
my mother is an alumna and they offer the degree that
I am interested in. However, the more I researched and
became involved in the University, the more I realized how
much more it has to offer. The small, intimate atmosphere
is just what I desire. I am looking forward to continuing
my education in an institution that appears to be studentfocused.
It’s a place where I can develop close relationships
and everyone knows each other.”
Her major, criminal justice, was one of the biggest factors
that attracted her to the University. Her goal is to work in
the field of child protection. But her studies are not her
only interest - she is also a member of the Blue Knight
Cheerleading Program.
“Being part of the cheerleading squad will not only give me
the opportunity to support the school and represent the
University in a positive manner, it will allow me to develop
relationships with girls who have some of the same interests
as I do.”
8 | Urbana Update | Fall 2011
Above: Jenna Bristoll (right) pictured with her father Ed Bristoll (left)
who attended classes at Urbana.
blue Knight Head Cheerleading Coach, Melissa Closser,
reflects on Jenna’s positive attitude. “Jenna is one of those
cheerleaders that wants to improve. You can tell that she
loves to cheer and has a desire to be a better cheerleader.
That is one of the best qualities a cheerleader can have -
knowing that every day is an opportunity to learn and
improve. I am happy she is a part of our team and a part of
the Urbana University family.” ■
}
“I believe being part of extracurricular
activities makes individuals more connected
and have more ownership with their school.
I know this will be the case for me at
Urbana University.”
- UU Freshman Jenna Bristol

aLUMnI
spotlight
When you think of psychology students, you
think many of them want to work with
people. not so with Kristen Shope, ‘10. Hired
by ringling bros. and barnum and bailey Circus in the
elephant department, Shope’s education prepared her to
become an expert in animal behavior, an important step
towards becoming an official elephant handler.
“I work alongside some of the best elephant handlers in the
world. ringling bros. has the largest herd in the western
hemisphere with 52 elephants. They’ve had 23 births in the
last 20 years and are committed to ensuring the existence
of the asian elephant for future generations. I live on the
circus train and we travel the country 11 months out of the
year, visiting a new city every week,” Shope stated.
not only did Shope have to adjust her schedule to the hectic
life of an elephant keeper, she also had to adjust to her living
space. “My room is only 4ft by 8ft. There’s sometimes 16
hour long days with only a day off once every few weeks.
but even with the long hours I’m having a blast.”
Shope credits Urbana University and the faculty for helping
her achieve her dream job. “Dr. Stolz and Dr. basinger
gave me the encouragement, knowledge, and the right tools
to reach success. Dr. Stolz encouraged me to go after my
dreams and never give up. I remember her commenting on
one of my assignments, ‘You go girl!’ also, I am grateful
for Dr. basinger for guiding me towards graduation and
educating me with the fundamental principals of classical
and operant conditioning which plays a major part in
understanding animal behavior. These tools will be crucial
}
“I’ve learned success is not about the money.
It’s about getting to wake up every morning
and do something you truly love.”
- Kristen Shope ‘10
Above: Kristen Shope ‘10 poses with a few of her elephant friends
while working for Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus.
for me to become a successful elephant handler.”
Shope encourages everyone to reach for a dream. “a dream
is never too large or too small. I’ve learned that success is
not about the money, having a big house, or fancy car. It’s
getting to wake up every morning and do something you
truly love. To me, that is true success.” ■
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 9

10 | Urbana Update | Fall 2011
Let’s Make Some NOISE!
UU Brings Back an Old Tradition
There won’t be a ship coming into port or a church service during the Homecoming
football game. It will be history coming to life when bells sound every time Urbana
scores!
The story, passed down from employee to employee, is that Urbana’s first president
Milo Williams, began the day calling students to class by ringing a bell. Williams’
bell, a true University artifact, is housed in the Johnny Appleseed Educational Center
and Museum and is a shining symbol of Urbana’s history. As time progressed, another
bell was placed outside of Barclay Bailey and it resided there until the construction
required it to be moved and placed in storage. This is the first bell in our victory pair.
The second bell is on loan from Urbana University trustee Mike Major and belonged to
his great-grandfather, Dr. Backus, a physician in Kentucky in the early to mid-1900s.
The bell, a part of the Backus homestead, was an alert if there was a medical issue
when the doctor was working the farms or visiting neighbors.
The idea to bring back an old tradition quickly became a campus conversation starter
and it was suggested that the University start ringing the bell at football games again.
“One of the goals our students express is that they want to increase Blue Knight spirit
--- what a better way than to have our students ring in Blue Knight victories at athletic
events with a bell that combines old tradition with new,” shared Melissa Closser, head
cheerleading coach.
Kat Steiner, director of Alumni Relations, reports the bells have been a part of Urbana’s
history and an important connection with the past. “Whether it’s truth or legend, it ties
us back to another generation of our Urbana family,” Steiner said. “It brings us a little
closer together - the current generation and yesterday’s generation of Blue Knights.”
Both bells are painted in the University’s colors (see photo to right). The bells will
make their Urbana debut at the first home football game, scheduled for Saturday,
September 24th against Walsh University. Be a part of UU history by attending the
game, there will be lots of ringing in the air! ■
*A special thanks to Urbana University trustee Mike Major, Urbana University Campus Facilities,
and the employees of Desmond-Stephan Manufacturing Company for their contributions.

Schedule of Events
Saturday, October 15
brought to you by: ESPN Radio 1410, Security National Bank, and
White’s Auto Group
9 a.m. 5K Fun Run coordinated by the Student Athletic Training Association
Contact jfrey@urbana.edu for details
9:30 a.m. Softball scrimmage between alumni and current team
Contact dlowe@urbana.edu for details
10 a.m. Interview with head football coach Dave Taynor ‘99
10 a.m. Alumni band gathering
Contact jgore@urbana.edu for details
10:30 a.m. Alumni cheerleading gathering
Contact mclosser@urbana.edu for details
10 a.m.-noon Alumni Advisory Board happy hour
11 a.m. Spirit March from Student Center to UU Stadium
Noon Game Kick Off: Urbana University vs. St. Joseph’s College
Halftime Royalty introduction & crowning
Third Quarter Football players from ‘05, ‘07, and ‘09 are invited to
the end zone for a group photo & free drink.
Post Game All are welcome in the beer tent after the game.
Contact the Office of Alumni Relations at alumni@urbana.edu or
(937) 484-1282 with questions about Homecoming!
Remember!!!
Homecoming
October 15, 2011
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 11

1
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5
ONCAMPUSAND OFF
12 | Urbana Update | Fall 2011
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6
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July
Facebook Contest
alumni were encouraged through social media to
submit photos to win fair and ride passes to the
Champaign County Fair. Greg Hower ’02 was the
winner of the contest and Chris Wilson ’04 was the
runner up. Visit the Urbana alum Facebook page to
see pictures and get daily information.
August 8
Alumni Day at the Fair
alumni who visited the University booth were treated
to one free small lemonade courtesy of Chester Foods.
Did you know more than 1/3 of alumni live within a 15
mile radius of campus?
August 13
Regional Event at Versailles
alumni and friends gathered in Versailles, OH. The
event was hosted by alumni ron and Karen Mescher
at their bar and grill, Sideliners. Head football coach
Dave Taynor ‘99 provided a preview of the season.
1 Facebook Contest: Photo submitted by Mike Davis titled, “UU’s
first football team from 1985” was entered in a Facebook Photo
Contest held by UU Alumni Relations. 2 Cheerleaders: University
cheerleaders & Knitro helped bring spirit to the London Rib and
Jazz Festival by stunting in the crowd. 3 Champaign Co. Fair:
Alumni Day at the Champaign County Fair. 4 Swedenborgian
Group: Group of alumni and friends at the Annual Convention
of the Swedenborgian Church. 5 Golf Scramble: Annual Blue
Knights Golf Scramble in July hosted at the Woodland Golf Club
in Cable, OH. 6 Kings Island: Admissions counselor Matthew
Ison takes advantage of the Kings Island discount for alumni and
friends. 7 Memorial Benefit: Andia Shisler Memorial Benefit -
proceeds supported the University’s soccer programs.
Calendar of events
oCtoBer
Saturday, October 15 - On Campus
‘A Knight with the Stars’ - Homecoming
Start your fall off right and show that you’re a Blue Knight! Last
year’s homecoming brought more than 3,000 persons to campus,
many for the game and others who came to renew acquaintances
and reconnect with the University.
Need a place to stay? Think ahead and reserve a room. See
a list of local accommodations or call the Champaign County
Convention and Visitors Bureau toll free at (877) 873-5767.
noveMBer
Saturday, November 5 - On Campus
Scholarship Recipient and Legacy Brunch
Brunch and a program will be provided to select alumni
supporters, student scholarship-recipients, faculty, staff, and the
University Foundation to reflect on philanthropy and education.
Event begins at 10:30 a.m. in the Student Center.
Monday, November 7 - On Campus
Jewish Dessert Tasting and Alumni Reception with
Dr. Janet Ebert
Join us on November 7 at 6 p.m. in the Student Center for a
Jewish dessert tasting and a special alumni reception with former
faculty member and local musician Dr. Janet Ebert. Following
the reception, stay for Dr. Janet Ebert’s presentation called “The
Homefront.” All are welcome!
deCeMBer
Thursday, December 1 - On Campus
Christmas on Campus
Brunch and a program will be provided to select alumni
supporters, student scholarship-recipients, faculty, staff, and the
University Foundation to reflect on philanthropy and education.
Event begins at 10:30 a.m. in the Student Center.
feBrUarY
Friday, February 3 - Columbus, OH
OFIC Career Fest
Attend the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC)
Career Fest held at the Aladdin Shrine Complex in Columbus,
OH. Open house for alumni and students will be held in the Oasis
Room at the complex from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Saturday, February 4 - On Campus
Athletic Hall of Fame
Celebrate the the 34th and 35th selections to be inducted into
the Urbana University Athletic Hall of Fame. Blue Knight alumni
Brian Boysel and Mary (Jenkins) McBride will be honored and
enshrined together during an induction ceremony on Saturday,
February 4th, 2012 after a Blue Knight men’s and women’s
basketball doubleheader.
Contact Alumni Relations with questions about any of the events
listed.
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 13

Your UU
alumni relations.
Dear Alumni and Friends,
This time every year, I often reflect on my
years as a Blue Knight - the excitement I would
get knowing returning to campus for another
amazing year with my UU family and friends
was just around the corner!
This year, there is a new excitement surrounding
the University and me. I am thrilled to be
serving as your Urbana University Alumni
Advisory Board chair. My years at Urbana
are some of my fondest memories. Serving
as the Alumni Advisory chair gives me the
opportunity to reconnect to the University and
create new experiences with all of you.
14 | Urbana Update | Fall 2011
Kiya Starr Hunt ‘00
Alumni Advisory Board Chair
The Board’s goal is to connect alumni to the University, as well as each other,
and to serve alumni and friends as we explore opportunities for growth. I
encourage you to get connected by becoming a member of the UU Alumni
Association, join the UU social media forums, submit class notes, and attend
alumni and university events.
I would like to personally invite each of you to Homecoming 2011 on Saturday,
October 15. More information will be provided in the upcoming months but
please save the date! We would love to see all of you prior to the game with
the alumni association hosting a beer garden social.
Feel free to contact me at kiyahunt@gmail.com or (614) 832-1051.
Alumni Relations participates in programs off campus and on campus. On-campus events
include spring and winter commencements, the legacy scholarship luncheon, the Senior Class
Gift, and the annual Activities Fair to welcome students to campus.
alumni relations.
alumni relations works closely with a 17-member alumni
advisory board, which is comprised of a diverse group of
UU graduates who volunteer their time and talents.
It is our vision to connect alumni to the University and to
each other. We serve our alumni and friends as we explore
various opportunities for growth in the daily lives of our
alumni.
connect.
alumni relations provides networking opportunities, builds
tradition, and garners community support for the University
through our alumni events, social media, the Urbana Update,
and monthly e-newsletters.
lead.
alumni relations encourages alumni to get involved to
raise the profile of UU across the state and beyond. Keep
in communication with campus to highlight personal and
professional successes. nominate alumni for Three arches
awards.
support.
Join the alumni association to show support of the University
and benefit. We support the University’s educational
mission. also, consider displaying your blue Knight pride
in your office, at home, or on your vehicle. Make a gift today
at www.urbana.edu/alumni.
Multiple opportunities to highlight outstanding alumni exist. Alumni Relations
participates in the Three Arches and Hall of Fame award ceremonies.

Your UU
alumni advisory board.
fast facts.
Chair
Kiya Starr Hunt ‘00
Co-Chair
amy Kemp ‘00
Secretary
Owen Donelon ‘10
Board Members
robert (bill) bean ‘71
betsy Coffman ‘71
Herbert (Herb) Greer ‘71
robert (bob) Harrison ‘78
Theodore (Trip) Hopkins III ‘96
Melanie Price McKenzie ‘08
Kent Miller ‘82
Steve Moore ‘72
bill robbins, Faculty & Staff representative
Student Government rep TbD
Eric Music ‘98
John Parker ‘08
Cynamyn Williams ’04, Mba‘07
Kyle Wunderlich ‘05
Who can join?
Every alumni of Urbana gets to enjoy basic membership.
annual and lifetime memberships are available to any UU
alumnus! Friends of UU are also welcome to join.
How do I join?
become a lifetime or annual member today! Visit www.
urbana.edu/alumni to complete your membership form or
contact the Alumni Relations Office at (937) 484-1282 or
ksteiner@urbana.edu.
How much does it cost for a membership?
If you’ve graduated in the last three years, it’s only $25. If
it’s been more than four years since graduation or you’re a
University friend, membership is $50 and supports alumni
relations and the University’s mission.
why membership?
active membership in Urbana’s alumni association provides
an array of personal benefits, listed below. Membership
dues paid to the association are used exclusively for the
association’s operations, our networking events, and the
advocacy and support activities at the core of our mission. If
you have questions or would like to join, contact the Office of
alumni relations at (937) 484-1282 or alumni@urbana.edu.
Members of the Alumni Advisory Board are active on campus and in their
communities. Alumni Relations is looking for people interested in volunteering.
Call (937) 484-1282 for opportunities.
benefits.
Enjoy these many benefits as annual or lifetime member of the UU
alumni association!
Services
• alumni ID Card
• Inclusion in Mailings
and Communication
• Electronic newsletters and
Postcards
• Volunteer opportunities
• Find a Friend
Career and Networking Visit www.urbana.edu/alumni for
• Job Search assistance updates.
• resume Help
• Interview Prep
• Social Media networking
• Invitation to annual career conferences
• Local networking events
• Career Coaching and Mentoring
Discounts
• Liberty Mutual auto and Home Insurance
• Kings Island
• Golfnow.com
• Legacy Program tuition discount
• admission to athletic and cultural events
• Other discounts as available
Educational Services
• Transcript requests
• access to University library
• access to Success Center
• rental of campus facilities
*All benefits are subject to change
or may vary.
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 15

CLASSNOTES
1949
Paul Price lives in Urbana with
his wife barbara and was the alumni
spotlight in the winter 2011 edition of
the Urbana Update, the alumni and
friends magazine.
1961
Hayla Parker is currently serving
as adjunct faculty for Urbana
University.
1968
Jack Draper goes by “Panama
Jack” Draper at a local oldies station
that is out of the Dayton area.
John Stegner taught 30 years
in the Kentucky Public Schools,
retired, then taught a couple of years
at the University of Kentucky. He
currently teaches at the University of
the Cumberlands, and at bluegrass
Community and Technical College,
in Lexington.
16 | Urbana Update | Fall 2011
1972
Steve Moore retired as Special
Education Director from Delaware/
Union Educational Services Center.
accepted alumni advisory board
position at Urbana University.
1974
Frank Drain was named Ohio
Hi-Point Career Center’s 2010
Outstanding new Career and
Technical Education Teacher. Drain
teaches at Hi-Point’s aviation
Occupations Satellite School in
bellefontaine, Ohio.
1979
Sharon Williams has used her
English degree from UU to edit and
publish a monthly magazine for her
church in Western Canada.
1982
Kent Miller is a retired business
owner and works as a commercial
pilot. accepted alumni advisory
board position at Urbana University.
1996
Theodore Hopkins works as
an admissions counselor at Ohio
Dominican University. accepted
alumni advisory board position at
Urbana University.
Rhonda Ward-Marsh, ‘96, ‘07
Chief Financial Officer for Columbus
State Community College.
1998
Verna Byers moved back to
the Ohio area and is writing her
first novel. You can contact her at
vbyersswank@woh.rr.com.
Tye Henderson was promoted to
director of the Champaign County
Library in Urbana, OH. Currently
serves as an adjunct faculty member
with the University.
Eric Music is the athletic director
at beechcroft High School. accepted
alumni advisory board position at
Urbana University.

2000
Yvette Grice is a cancer survivor
after two years of treatments. With
a grim prediction of only one year
to survive stomach cancer, her
oncologist announced that she was
cancer-free.
Kiya Starr-Hunt is the assistant
principal at Pickerington High School
Central. accepted alumni advisory
board position at Urbana University.
Amy Kemp works as the director of
Manufacturing Operations. accepted
alumni advisory board position at
Urbana University.
2001
Brian Baum was selected the Ohio
High school Division V co-coach of
the year.
2002
Authur Caudill was named head
baseball coach at bellefontaine High
School.
2003
Stay Connected!
Christopher Moore was named
the director of the Springfield City
Service Center .
2004
Robert Cowles, ‘04, ‘07 was
named the program director for the
Greater Dayton YMCa.
2005
Amy Barnhart was named the
director of Financial aid at Wright
State University.
Kyle Wunderlich works as the
general manager for the Cintas
Corporation. Wife Jessica ‘07 is a
preschool teacher at nativity Catholic
School.
2006
Amy Knueven started a new
business in Urbana, OH.
Cynamyn Williams works as
the Human resources and Safety
Manager for Enkon LLC. accepted
alumni advisory board position at
Urbana University.
2008
Kristen Auel plays for the
Columbus Comets, a full contact
women’s football team with the
Women’s Football alliance (WFa).
We want to hear from you!
Submit your class notes by mail or email
alumni@urbana.edu
She ranks third on the team with 316
rushing yards and averages more than
10 yards per carry.
Melanie McKenzie works as the
advancement services manager at
Urbana University. accepted alumni
advisory board position at Urbana
University.
John Parker works as the Senior
athletic program coordinator for the
City of Dayton. accepted alumni
advisory board position at Urbana
University.
2009
Kandalyn Stevenson released a
musical album with her sister. Group
name is nyla and album is “now or
never” and was released in December
2010. She is now an admissions
counselor for UU.
2010
Owen Donelon works as a recruiter
at Maximum Healthcare. accepted
alumni advisory board position at
Urbana University.
Kristen Shoppe works in Flordia
with the barnum and bailey Circus as
an elephant trainer.
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 17

Marriages
2003
Kristie (Zeller) Stathopoulos
married andy Stathopoulos on June
12, 2010.
2005
Bryan Conlon married Shannon
Holt on June 19, 2010, at Starkdale
Presbyterian Church in Wintersville,
Ohio.
Kelly (Robison), ‘05, ‘07 married
allan robison on July 17th, 2011.
2007
Tristen Wolfe and Emily
(Campbell) Wolfe, ‘08, ‘10 were
married on January 6, 2011 in Ocho
rios Jamaica and now reside in new
Mexico.
2008
Laura (Gillaugh) Cross, ‘08
and Craig Cross, ‘09 were
married on October 2, 2010. Laura an
enriched curriculum teacher at bright
beginnings in Greene County.
Deaths
Stay Connected!
1933
Marcus Hitt passed away on May
18, 2011 at the age of 97.
18 | Urbana Update | Fall 2011
1939
Alberta Theriault passed away on
March 16, 2010.
1947
Harry Umbenhauer passed away
on November 13, 2010 in Springfield
regional Medical Center.
1950
William Hanna passed away on
December 12, 2010.
1963
Betty Murray passed away on
november 12, 2010.
1972
Catherine Knife passed away
after a five-year struggle with cancer.
1973 & 1979
Russell Algren passed away July
12, 2010 after a short illness.
Marcella Brandeberry lost her
battle with cancer in December 2009.
Rebekah Nettles passed away
February 17, 2010.
1975
Stephen Harris passed away June
22, 2010.
Martin Watkins passed away
September 2009.
We want to hear from you!
Submit your class notes by mail or email
alumni@urbana.edu
1989
Neil Moore passed away in a single
plane crash in Delaware County on
July 29, 2010.
2002/2003
Susan Severt passed away on May
12, 2010.
2005
Melanie Casey passed away
on January 2, 2011 in riverside
Methodist Hospital in Columbus.
Tammy Wilson passed away on
april 22, 2011 after a lifelong battle
with Cystic Fibrosis.
2008
Bart Hunton passed away on
February 25, 2011.
Sympathy
Charles Weiland ‘70, his two
daughters, Christy Dockweiler
and Stephanie Weiland, and one
grandchild, Erin rose Dockweiler, on
the passing of his wife on December
21, 2009.

REMEMBERWHEN. . .
SHARE THE PRIDE. BUILD ON TRADITION.
NOMINATE YOUR ALUMNI.
The Alumni Association and Office of
alumni relations periodically recognize
outstanding achievement of UU’s most
distinguished graduates through the Three
arches awards. These awards pay tribute to
those persons who best exemplify our alma
mater’s high standards of excellence and
service.
Nominate someone by visiting
www.urbana.edu/alumni, calling
(937) 484-1282, or stopping by the
Office of Alumni Relations.
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 19

HOnOrInG 579
Urbana University to Honor‘05, ‘07, & ‘09 Football Teams at Homecoming 2011
During the 2011 Homecoming Football Game against
St. Joseph’s College on October 15th, Urbana
University will honor the three most successful teams in
program history. Members from the 2005, 2007 and 2009
teams are invited back to campus by the Office of Alumni
relations to reminisce and receive recognition for their
accomplishments on the field.
20 20 | | Urbana Urbana Update | | Fall 2011
by Chris Anders
Assistant Athletic Director
of Media Relations
VISIT
http://sports.urbana.edu/
FOR NEWS & SCHEDULES
For some schools, completing a season above .500 leaves
little reason to celebrate. To overcome an early history
of bad luck and misfortune that seemed to be conspiring
against the up-and-coming football program took blood,
sweat, and tears from a very dedicated, driven group of men.
In their very first varsity contest in 1985, Urbana dominated
Tiffin 30-7 under new head coach Ray DeCola. DeCola
led Urbana to a respectable .500 record over the program’s
first two seasons, and the new team appeared to be on the
fast track to a flurry of winning seasons. But despite the
program’s early success, the blue Knights almost seemed
cursed when it came to securing the University’s first
winning season.
During their first full season of varsity competition in ’86,
the blue Knights sat above .500 at 4-3 with two games
to play. The following year, the team sat at 4-4 with one
game to play. For many, the third time’s a charm, but for the
Urbana football team in 1988, the third time offered the first
sign that, perhaps, a winning season wasn’t in the cards for
the blue Knights.

The competition in the early ‘90s quickly excelled past the
blue Knights and the team was never able to secure that
first winning season. A winning record continued to elude
Urbana over the next two decades. There were three seasons
of .500 records (’86, ’88, and ’98), but the blue Knights
were quickly gaining a reputation for their epic late-season
collapses.
Finally in 2005, after two decades of doubt, the blue
Knights raced out to a 6-2 overall record and a national
ranking as high as 16th in the country. This secured their
place as the first winning team in University history. Every
other year since then, the blue Knights have matched that
achievement. Join us on Saturday, October 15th to honor the
accomplishments of the “579 Club” at Homecoming! ■
Football players and fans from ’05, ’07, and ’09 or 579 Club, as
we are calling it, are invited to gather during the start of the
third quarter in the north end zone for a photo opportunity
and special gift from Alumni Relations. You’re encouraged
to gather and share memories of the three most successful
campaigns in the school’s 26-year football history.
Urbana Update | Fall 2011 | 21

22 | Urbana Update | Fall 2011
Urbana University
Office of Alumni Relations
579 College Way
Urbana, Ohio 43078
Some individuals find that they can make a larger gift to Urbana University upon their death than they
could have during their lifetime. If you have ever considered a bequest to UU through your Will, need more
information, or would like to discuss this possibility, please contact Jim Thornton, Vice President of Institutional
advancement & Communications, at (937) 484-1287 or jthornton@urbana.edu.
Leave a Legacy
The Lewis & Jean Moore Center on campus.
Non-Profit Org.
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