This November, Mark Henn (‘83) received the distinguished Jean Brierley Award for Excellency in Teaching from the University of New Hampshire. Dr. Henn has been with the psychology department of UNH since 1984 and currently works as a principal lecturer. He is pictured here at the award ceremony with his daughter, Kara (Henn) Radzinski (‘13).

Perkins Professor Harold Recinos Nominated for Pulitzer Prize in Poetry for Third Time

DALLAS (SMU) – Harold Recinos, professor of Church and Society at Perkins School of Theology at SMU, has been nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in Poetry for his newest collection, On the Sight of Angels (Wipf and Stock, 2025). This marks the third time Recinos’ work has been nominated and accepted for consideration for the nation’s top literary honor.

Recinos also received nominations for his two previous collections, The Looking Glass: Far and Near (2023) and The Place Across the River (2024). He has written 22 poetry collections, with another, The Bags We Carry, forthcoming in 2026.

Recinos describes his poetry “as graffiti on public culture, lines about the mixed feelings of learned truth that originate from the permanent Spanglish knot in my throat.” On the Sight of Angels continues his signature blend of prophetic witness and lyrical imagination, exploring life in urban margins and faith amid injustice.

“At Perkins, we believe that theology is not confined to the classroom or textbooks but finds expression in art, justice, and the human imagination,” said Bryan P. Stone, Leighton K. Farrell Endowed Dean of Perkins School of Theology. “Dr. Hal Recinos’ poetry embodies that conviction with uncommon brilliance. His Pulitzer nomination honors a voice that gives witness to hope, struggle, and creative engagement with the world—and it reminds us how the Perkins community hopes to speak meaningfully into the heart of culture and faith.”

Through poetry, Recinos said, “I aim to say something about the exclusion that is familiar to people who have their backs pressed against the wall by cultures of cruelty and divisive politics. Poetry has been with me longer than I can remember, and it has been a companion to address with imaginative language the pulse of everyday life in disregarded places.”

The new collection has earned high praise from fellow poets and critics.

“From its early invitation to ‘step into this / place where God is never / indifferent to the movement / of life’ through its later invitation to ‘look / for the corners visited by / radiant goodness,’ On the Sight of Angels proves that Harold Recinos is alert to the messengers of God, and also ‘unafraid to gather whatever / glitters in a world in need of / repair,’” wrote H. L. Hix, professor in the Department of Philosophy and the Creative Writing Program at the University of Wyoming.

Philip Schultz, founder of The Writers Studio and Pulitzer Prize winner in poetry himself, added: “Of the many important things these deeply felt poems accomplish—perhaps the most essential—is the view of white America they offer: the other side of America that’s seldom seen with such bravado and honesty in American poetry; an immigrant black and brown America ripped open by white rage and indifference. Recinos’ view of the role Christianity plays in all of this is equally profound and original. These are poems that needed to be written, truthful, often enraged, poems written by and for the soul. Amen.”

Recinos says he’s honored to be recognized once again by the Pulitzer committee, noting the historical significance of Latino representation in the prize’s history. To date, only one Latino poet has received the Pulitzer Prize for poetry: William Carlos Williams, who was honored posthumously in 1963.

In addition to his poetry, Recinos is a noted theologian and author of six works in constructive theology, each of which featured his original poems at the beginning of each chapter. Encouraged by readers who urged him to publish more poetry, he released his first collection, Voices on the Corner, in 2015.

“Subsequently, I have continued to pour myself into the craft guided by the appeal of a remark made by Ezra Pound, who said, ‘Poetry is news that stays news,’” Recinos said. “I hope that is true of my collections.”

Perkins School of Theology celebrates Harold Recinos for his continued recognition and his contributions to faith-informed art and scholarship. The recipient of the 2026 Pulitzer Prize for poetry will be announced in May.

Abbey Partika (’17) and Warren Lewis (17′) got married in Charlottesville, Virginia on April 5, 2025. Abbey and Warren started dating October 10, 2013- only three weeks after arriving at Wooster!

From Left to Right:
Back Row: Allie Elchert (’17), Clara Deck (’17) Fritz Schoenfeld (’17) Katie Cameron (’17) Elena Soyer (’17), Tanner Fisher, Giancarlo Stefanutti (’17), Garret Hodos (’17) , Annie Partika (’15)
Mariah Joyce (’17) 

Front Row: Lucy Heller (’17) , Jack Berthiaume (’17) , Abbey Partika (’17) , Warren Lewis (’17) , Sophie Nathanson (’17) Max Mindlin (’17), Emily Partika (’19), Grace Gamble (’17)

Dennis Raymond Keyes, 78, of Albion, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at home on June 16, 2025. He was born on October 28, 1946, in Fremont, Ohio. Dennis was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. After graduating from Fremont Ross High School in 1965 where he played football for the Little Giants, Dennis went on to The College of Wooster where he majored in physical education, was a captain on the football team, a member of Phi Sigma Alpha, and was named “Mr. Wooster.”

Dennis devoted his career to helping others: first, working with individuals with developmental disabilities and then spending the majority of his career working with at risk youth, most notably, at Starr Commonwealth in Albion. He earned his master’s degree in counseling from Eastern Michigan University. He was a fierce advocate for social justice and loved a good debate.

Dennis married his college sweetheart, Barbara. They shared just under 54 years of marriage. Dennis’ greatest joy in life was spending time with his family, whether watching the Lions play on Sunday or planning a trip to Cedar Point. You could never miss his voice when he cheered on his children and grandchildren while they were swimming, playing football, playing hockey, or dancing. He was a jack of all trades who could fix or build just about anything and loved “managing” projects.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara, their children Aaron (Amy) Keyes and Kristen (Nathan) Cook; five grandchildren, AJ, Austin, Isabella, Colin, and Laila; his sisters Nancy (Joe Grandjean) Keyes, Teressa (Gary) Greene, and sister-in-law Sharon (Dennis) Kimmell. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Mary Keyes.

October 1, 1940 – October 29, 2025

Sandria Neidus Kerr died on October 29, 2025, at Salemtowne Babcock Health Center in Winston-Salem, NC, from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a rare form of dementia.  She was born October 1, 1940, in Youngstown, Ohio, the oldest child of Morris William Neidus, who immigrated from Belarus at an early age, and Ruth Alexandria Hutchinson, whose family had a long Ohio history. Her mother invented Sandria’s given name by shortening her own middle name. Sandria was exposed to a variety of viewpoints from birth.

In elementary and high school, she excelled in academics, especially mathematics and science, and was the valedictorian of her graduating class. She also engaged in ballet dancing in elementary and junior high school and developed a love of music by singing in the high school girls’ chorus.  In her senior year, she developed managerial skills as the editor of her class yearbook.

Sandria attended the College of Wooster in Ohio. She majored in both mathematics and physics and sang popular music and show tunes in the girls’ chorus and the classical music of Bach and Verdi in the College concert choir.  She met her future husband, William Kerr, early on at Wooster.  They graduated in 1962 and married a year later.

After college she continued her academic trajectory by attending Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania to achieve a Master of Science degree in mathematics and then earning a Doctor of Philosophy degree in mathematics from Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. They moved several times during this period because Bill finished his PhD in physics in 1967 and moved to short-term positions in Sweden and then in Chicago.  With great perseverance Sandria continued her PhD research and obtained her degree in 1971. While all of this academic work was going on their two daughters were born.

In 1970, Bill accepted an academic position in Winston-Salem, NC, and in 1971 Sandria obtained a position in the mathematics department at Winston-Salem State University. In the 1980s, computer science became an important discipline and to help WSSU move into this area, Sandria reoriented her expertise by spending two summers at the Institute for Retraining in Computer Science (IFRICS) at Clarkson University, which taught computer science to individuals who already had advanced degrees in mathematics.  Sandria then transitioned to the computer science department, where she continued her career at WSSU until retiring in 2008.

Music always played an important role in Sandria’s life. While in Ithaca, she sang in the Cornell University Concert Choir, and after moving to Winston-Salem, she joined the Winston-Salem Symphony Chorale, where she sang for over 40 years and later the choir at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Winston-Salem.

After her retirement, Sandria became a tutor for young children through the Love Literacy project. Sandria and Bill traveled widely, taking Road Scholar trips with their grandchildren and river boat tours in Europe. Life-long lovers of nature and avid hikers, they explored many mountain ranges throughout the US, from the White Mountains in New Hampshire to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico.

Sandria is survived by her husband, Bill; two daughters, Tamara Kerr (Jacob Murad) of Teaneck, NJ, and Elizabeth Fish (Stanton Fish) of Glen Rock, NJ; and 4 grandchildren, Ethan Murad, Alexandria Murad, Julia Fish and Mira Fish; and a sister, Esther Neidus Brockman of Hendersonville, TN.

Sandria’s family is grateful for the competence and loving care provided to Sandria by the staff at Salemtowne Babcock Health Center and Trellis Hospice Care.

Contributions in Sandria’s memory may be made to the Salemtowne Team Membership Scholarship Fund(Giving) or CurePSP (CurePSP | Make a Gift – CurePSP).

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Winston-Salem (4055 Robinhood Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106-4736) on Saturday, December 20^th at 2pm.

Timeka Rashid, PhD returns to higher ed as the VP of Student Affairs at Cuyahoga Community College(TriC).

Dr. Rashid brings an extensive background in student affairs and engagement to our institution.  Her career includes serving as the director of student activities and athletics at Columbus State Community College, the director of the center for student involvement and union as well as the and the associate dean of students at Kent State University, the assistant vice president of inclusive student engagement at Cleveland State University, and most recently the vice president for student affairs at Baldwin Wallace University.  Throughout her 24 years of experience in higher education, she has led and coordinated college-wide efforts in student engagement, orientation, veterans’ services, international student services, athletics, TRiO, first generation programming, student leadership and health and wellness.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Rashid earned a Bachelor of Arts from The College of Wooster, a Master of Arts in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from The Ohio State University, and Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Ohio University.  She has presented, published and served in regional leadership with the Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education.  She has also served in leadership with Ohio College Personnel Association and was active in presented with the American College Personnel Association.

Dr. Rashid will join Tri-C on Nov. 24, 2025.

Karen Miller, Ph.D.

Executive Vice President, Student Experience

Cuyahoga Community College

Dave Lazor (’66) was recently inducted into the Texas Senior Softball Hall of Fame.

I ran into Marina McGrew (’78) where she was showing her ceramics at a craft fair in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia!

Lissy de la Chapelle ’17 married Aidan Crowe ’18 on March 29, 2025, at Oyster Bay Yacht Club on Amelia Island, FL.

Pictured: Will Noel ’19, Max Rubin ’15, Ian Brim ’18, Cullen Kuhn ’20, Claire Davis ’20, Taylor Bowen ’16, Sam Kuhn ’18, Kenzie LaCroix ’18, Erik Barroso ’18, Desmond Hughes ’18, Ethan Scully ’19, Tyler LaCroix ’18 Aidan Crowe ’18, Lissy de la Chapelle ’17, Andrew de la Chapelle ’86, Caroline Click ’18,

The allegiance that defines being a Woo alum continues. I attended my 50th last year, and then my 51st this year. Reconnected at our 5oth with some of my Delt buddies from freshman year, which was great. Very cool guys like Bill Handwerk, Rick Lowe, Lon Johnson, Jeff Durbin, Mark DiFeo, Tim Whalen, and Kevin Dickey. Last year was about spending time with some of my Sig brethren, including Ned Compton, Rick Vaughn, John Copeland, Bob Rogers, Terry Schmidt, Mike Malovasic, Pat McGraw, John Dorko, Jamie Thomas, Bill Derbyshire, Dick Williamson, Tom Hostenske, and others from the class of ’75. Talk about great guys.

I’ll be back on campus again this month to show it off to a loved one, plus meeting with our relatively new AD (who is exceptionally impressive, by the way) and watching lacrosse practice. Will then have dinner up in Cleveland with a bunch of Sigs and their wives. Coming back is always a reminder of what a “special place” Wooster truly is. The word that pops for me when seeing the campus is “prosperous.” We read about all the small private colleges that are closing their doors, and it makes you realize how successful our alma mater has been.

Quick personal update: I hung up my whistle after coaching men’s lax for over 20 years. Not a huge demand for 73 year-old coaches, except maybe Belichick and Pete Carroll. I’m serving as the Interim Executive Director of a large non-profit, and enjoying my 2 grandkids. Hope to see you all at our 55th!

Free-lance writer Vivian Douglas Smith, born in Dalton, OH passed on August 29, 2025, four months shy of her 100th birthday, at her Falls Church, VA home. Vivian authored two historical books: “Flight of the Robin” and “Look Up at the Hawks.”

She is predeceased by her loving husband of 76 years, David Eugene Smith, and brother Harold; survived by BROTHER JOHN; children Douglas, Debora (Michael Jaworek, son Lee) and Megan; brother-in-law Luther; nieces and nephews; and many, many friends.

Memorial Service at Annandale United Methodist Church, Annandale, VA on September 18, 2025, 11 a.m. Arlington National Cemetery internment with husband David at a later date.

Kenneth Parker Moore was born October 27, 1954, in Elkhart, Indiana. His father was Odus Lee (“Bill”) Moore Jr., a textile engineer and textile plant manager who graduated from North Carolina State University in 1935. His mother was Margaret McNiece Ellis, a public-school teacher who graduated from the College of Wooster in 1941 and received her Master’s Degree in Teaching from Columbia University in 1942.

His family lived in Goshen, Indiana, until summer 1962. Every Christmas, Easter, summer, and Thanksgiving, they would visit his maternal grandparents, Jessie Lee Ellis and Wilder Prince Ellis, who both graduated from the College of Wooster in 1910, and had spent 20 years as medical missionaries in Iran.

His family lived in Laurinburg, North Carolina, from 1962 to 1971, and he went to Scotland High School from 1969 to 1971.

He attended Community School, Tehran, Iran, where he played basketball and kicked for the football team, from 1971 to 1973, when his mother started teaching at Damavand College. He liked to put on a show for the fans: booming punts, spinning the basketball on his finger as he came out of the locker room, doing ball tricks that he learned from the Harlem Globetrotters, and imitating announcers calling play-by-play. He really enjoyed playing!

He studied at College of Wooster (Ohio) from 1973 to 1978, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature. (Both his maternal grandparents, his mother, and his sister graduated from Wooster, in 1910, 1941, and 1969, respectively, and his mother and sister graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature.)

He visited Germany in summer 1978, with Wooster German students, and then traveled by bus with his Wooster friend to Tehran, Iran, where he worked as a sportscaster until February 1979.

Because of the revolution there, his mother and he went to Charlotte, North Carolina, where they stayed until August 1979, when they packed up all their stuff and drove to Hillsborough, California (beside San Francisco Bay), where his brother lived.

That fall, they purchased a two-bedroom, two-bath mobile home in Daly City, California.

Ken worked independently as a dental-supply salesman, radio station owner, used-gear salesman, and pet-care and housesitting contractor. (He never had a boss.)

He first got (starter) golf clubs at age 12, with his brother, and played regularly when in Laurinburg. His mother and he visited England in summer 1972, and he travelled by himself to Scotland’s St. Andrews Links (The Home of Golf)! After returning to the United States, he played golf at least weekly, with a 6 to 8 handicap, driving the golf ball 300 yards off the tee. He was a member of the Gleneagles Golf Club at McLaren Park, San Francisco, and eventually played all local golf courses.

He traveled to 41 of the United States, as well as to England, Scotland, Germany, Austria, Italy, Yugoslavia, Greece, Turkey, and Iran.

He was never married and never had children.

He died suddenly on December 31, 2024, in Daly City, California.

Margaret McNiece Ellis was born in Matsuyama, Japan, on December 24, 1920, in the home of her father’s sister, Nina Ellis Dosker, a Presbyterian missionary, while in route from Persia to California. Her father, Wilder Prince Ellis, and her mother, Jessie Lee Ellis, were Presbyterian medical missionaries in Urumia and Tabriz, Persia, from 1915 to 1935. (Her father was born on the same day of the year, but in 1886.)

She died at age 99 on the evening of August 3, 2020, while at the Peninsula del Rey assisted living facility, Daly City, California.

Schooling

Her parents went back to Iran in 1921, and she lived in northwest Iran from 1921 to 1935. She learned to speak Turkish and Syriac.

As she was taught at home in Urumia and Tabriz, Persia, she never went to public school until her parents were on furlough for a year in Berkeley, California, where she went to elementary school.

In 1935, her mother (along with her colleague, Bernice Cochran) took their children to Geneva, Switzerland, for a year to learn French at the International School. There she also visited the League of Nations.

In 1936, she visited the famous museums of Europe, where she saw the great paintings that she had studied in black and white in the home-school classroom in Iran.

Her family then went to Wooster, Ohio, where there were residences for missionaries home on furlough.

She graduated from Wooster High School in 1937 and then entered the College of Wooster, graduating with a BA in English in 1941. (Both her parents had graduated in 1910 from the College of Wooster.)

She enrolled in Teachers College, Columbia University, and received her Master’s Degree in English Education in 1942.

From 1942 to 1943, she taught school in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Career

Her first teaching job, in 1942 to 1943, was at Hagerstown Junior High in Hagerstown, Maryland.

In 1943, she married Odus Lee Moore, Jr. As he was Chief Inspector of the Fairchild Aircraft plant, Hagerstown, Maryland, from 1942 to 1946, they bought their first house in 1943 across from the golf course with a lovely view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Her son John Franklin Moore was born in 1946; her daughter Kathleen McNiece Moore in 1947; and her son Kenneth Parker Moore in 1954. (Both Kathleen, in 1969, and Ken, in 1978, graduated from Wooster College.)

Her husband was the manager at textile-manufacturing plants in Salisbury, North Carolina (1947); Red Springs, North Carolina (1948); Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania (1949); Shavertown, Pennsylvania (1950); and then Goshen, Indiana (1954). She taught Kindergarten in Red Springs, North Carolina, and Goshen, Indiana and eighth grade in Harrison Township, Indiana.

Her family moved to Laurinburg, North Carolina, in 1962, when her husband succeeded his father as publisher of the Laurinburg Exchange newspaper. She taught high school in Laurinburg and later Raeford, North Carolina.

Between 1966 and 1971, she taught English Literature at St. Andrews College in Laurinburg, North Carolina, and later at Pembroke State University in Pembroke, North Carolina.

Iran Again

In 1971, because of her mother’s connection with missionary activity in Iran, her mother told her of the opening of a women’s college in Tehran. In August 1971, she returned to Iran to teach college English Literature. (Dr. Frances Gray, the founding president, designed the Damavand College curriculum to help Iranian women to better understand both Iranian and American cultures.)

She took classes to learn to speak and understand Farsi.

Returning to the land of her childhood was like returning home. She was especially delighted to be able to teach a class of English literature to an unusual group of women, older than the usual college freshman. Their insights into the works of Shakespeare, and other great poets, playwrights, and novelists in English, were an inspiration to her.

She set up a Women’s Studies program and convened a Conference on Women, which included Mahnaz Afghami, then Director of Women’s Affairs for the Iranian government.

A major challenge for her was the closing of the College in early 1979, requiring all the native and foreign professors to resign.

California

In 1979, she went to first Charlotte, North Carolina, and then Daly City, California. She taught ESL and English at adult schools in Daly City, Pacifica, and Redwood City. Besides teaching, she read American and Iranian women writers.

Before retiring at age 77, she taught English for many years at Florence Crittenton Services in San Francisco, California.

She was active in the League of Women Voters.

American Association of University Women

She first joined the American Association of University Women (AAUW) in Goshen, Indiana, in 1955, and resumed membership in the AAUW San Bruno (now the North Peninsula) branch in 1980, enjoying fellowship and working toward equity for women and girls.

She had traveled to 45 of the United States as well as to England, France, Switzerland, Italy, Russia, Egypt, Afghanistan, Singapore, Japan, Korea, and Cuba, so she always felt at home in the branch’s International Relations Group, as the members had also traveled abroad. She liked to discuss the articles in the Great Decisions Manual.

She funded the Jesse and Wilder Ellis International Fellowship (to honor her parents), established by the AAUW North Peninsula Branch, as an AAUW International Fellowship Fund. The criteria for this fellowship are outstanding academic ability, professional potential, interest in studies of girls and women in her home country, and prior commitment to the advancement of girls and women through civic, community, and/or professional work.

Kathleen McNiece Moore was born October 12, 1947, at Charlotte, North Carolina. Her father was Odus Lee (“Bill”) Moore Jr., a textile engineer and textile plant manager who graduated from North Carolina State University in 1935. Her mother was Margaret McNiece Ellis, a public-school teacher who graduated from the College of Wooster in 1941 and received her Master’s Degree in Teaching from Columbia University in 1942.

As her father managed different textile-manufacturing plants, her family moved from Salisbury, North Carolina, to Red Springs, North Carolina (1948); Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania (1949); Shavertown, Pennsylvania (1950); and then Goshen, Indiana (1954). Every Christmas, Easter, summer, and Thanksgiving, they would visit her maternal grandparents, Jessie Lee Ellis and Wilder Prince Ellis, who both graduated from the College of Wooster in 1910, and had spent 20 years as medical missionaries in Iran.

Her family moved to Laurinburg, North Carolina, in 1962, when her father succeeded his father as publisher of the Laurinburg Exchange newspaper.

Having studied flute from the fifth grade onward, she continued her lessons and participated in junior high school and high school bands and orchestras, reaching a level of proficiency for which she was rewarded with a famous-name nickel-silver flute in 1965.

She graduated from Laurinburg High School in 1965 and went to the College of Wooster, from which she graduated in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, as her mother and grandmother had done in 1941 and 1910, and her brother, Kenneth Parker Moore, would do in 1978. She was a member of the Wooster College band and participated in many other musical activities.

She then went to the School of Library Science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated with a Master of Science in Library Science in 1970, with a specialty in Children’s Library Services.

Her first children’s librarian job was in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She then returned to Chapel Hill as children’s librarian at a local library. During those years, she traveled to England and Germany (having already been to 40 of the United States) and to Iran, where her mother was teaching at Damavand College. She often used her musical training in her work with children.

She married once for a few years but never had children.

In 1977, she became Coordinator of Children’s Services for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Library.

She died at age 31 of systemic lupus, July 1, 1979, at Charlotte, North Carolina.

Two scholarships have been established in her name:
* Kathleen McNiece Moore Fellowship in Children’s Library Services, School of Information and Library Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
* Kathleen McNiece Moore Endowed Scholarship in Flute and Voice, College of Wooster (Ohio)

When 2011 alumna Lauren Camacci, Ph.D., needed to relocate to Texas for her husband’s new professorship with Baylor University, she was glad to leave her beloved home in Cleveland, Ohio, in the hands of dear friend and fellow 2011 alumnus, Alex Karrfalt. Pictured left to right: Alex (2011) and Dana Beveridge, esq., Lauren (2011) and Gabriel Piqué, DMA. Photo by Karen Menyhart Photography.

Sarah Coffin ’10 married Jonathan Ottinger on August 23, 2025

Wooster Alumni in Photo (Left to Right)

Gregory Carlisle ’10, Nick Janus ’10, Carly Janus ’10, Jonathan Ottinger, Sarah Coffin Ottinger ’10, Emily Howard ’10, Harrison Wilson ’10 and Andrea Patton’ 14

Classmate Rev. Emily Howard served as Officiant for Ceremony

Greetings from The Land!  I am very happy to say that I officially retired on April 1st-no fooling! I spent the past 42-43 years working with developmentally disabled adults in various capacities-including 34 years with CCBDD. My days are filled with lots of yoga, going to concerts and attending Cleveland Guardians baseball games. You can also find me connecting with fellow Fighting Scot Alums on the “Woordle” FB page!!  In addition, my wife Ellen and I are “Chasing 30”-we’re trying to get to every MLB park! We have a travel trailer and the National Parks are on our bucket list too. Finally we are living vicariously through our son Colin, Class of 2016 who is currently in his 4th year in a PhD. program in Anthropology/Archeology at the University of Arizona in Tucson.  Colin is concentrating on Roman Archeology and he has participated in many excavations in Europe.

While traveling with a 24 person Smithsonian tour in Morocco, Anne Haeckl ’73 and Marilyn (Lynne) Ruth Burns Potler ’60 discovered an unexpected Wooster connection, meeting for the first time at the edge of the Sahara in October 2025.

August 11, 1978 – July 19, 2025

Aaron Woloff – A Life of Friends, Family, Food and Fun.

Aaron Woloff was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Stanley and Judith Woloff. He grew up in Center City with his brother Isaac and attended Julia R. Masterman High School, followed by the College of Wooster in Ohio.

From a young age, Aaron was full of energy and passion. He was a talented athlete, competing on both the collegiate swimming and track teams. Whether rollerblading through the quad at Wooster or weaving through Manhattan’s Upper West Side, he embraced movement, momentum, and life with unshakable enthusiasm. A devoted Philadelphia sports fan, Aaron remained fiercely loyal to his beloved Eagles and Phillies wherever life took him—cherishing unforgettable moments like attending Super Bowl LIX and celebrating with the city at the Eagles’ victory parade in 2018.

After college, Aaron launched his career in media and publishing, initially settling in Brooklyn. It was then he met the love of his life, Elisabeth, and moved to Manhattan, where they built a joyful home at Club 114 and were married in 2004. Together, they raised their greatest pride and joy—their two incredible children, Zachary and Zoey.

Aaron built an impressive career in advertising sales, holding key positions at Ziff Davis Media/PC Magazine, American Lawyer Media (ALM), American Media Inc. (AMI), World Golf Tour, Time Inc./Golf Magazine, Performance Pricing, and most recently, his beloved NASCAR.

Aaron brought extraordinary dedication, warmth, and integrity to his work. He formed lasting relationships with clients, colleagues, and vendors alike—earning admiration for his sincerity, tireless work ethic, and natural ability to connect. At NASCAR, he went above and beyond—working around the clock, traveling to races across the country, and offering concierge-level service to clients with genuine joy and generosity. He was respected throughout the organization and deeply loved by all who knew him—not just for his professional achievements, but for the deep, lifelong relationships he nurtured.

Aaron was always there for his friends—his chosen extended family—just as they stood faithfully by his side with unwavering support during his final months. But above all, Aaron was a family man. He never missed a performance, a game, or a tournament, often coaching the children’s sports teams. Despite the demands of his career, he always made time to show up for the people he loved—whether it was a client dinner on a Tuesday or a family visit on a Sunday. His love, laughter, and light were constants in the lives of those around him.

A proud Jew, Aaron grew up attending Society Hill Synagogue in Philadelphia and later Congregation Rodeph Sholom in New York City. He lovingly passed down Jewish traditions and values to his children, and was especially known for his delicious latkes. Aaron will be remembered for his kindness, humility, gratitude, and his signature beaming smile—often paired with an encouraging thumbs-up. He had a gift for making others feel seen and valued in every interaction.

Tragically, Aaron’s life was cut short by mesothelioma, a rare and devastating cancer. His memory survives through his loving parents, Stanley and Judith Woloff; his brother Isaac Woloff and sister-in-law Abigail Woloff; his cherished nephews, Shaya and David; his beloved wife, Beth; and his two adoring children, Zachary and Zoey.

Aaron’s legacy lives on in every life he touched—with pure joy and unwavering positivity.

MEMORIAL SERVICE VIDEO RECORDING (Program listed below):

Aaron’s life was honored in a Memorial Service held at Congregation Rodeph Sholom, on the Upper West Side of New York City on Tuesday, July 22nd at 11:00am. Please find the link to the recorded service here: https://vimeo.com/1102927863/b12cf3729b?share=copy

AARON WOLOFF REMEMBRANCE PHOTOS: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gTKJwqRmbmty2aQYpUUhd023YU_2V2Z0/view

DONATIONS:

Donations can be made in Aaron’s honor to:

GO FUND ME: https://gofund.me/33b56641d

Society Hill Synagogue: https://www.societyhillsynagogue.org/donate/

Pencils for Kids, Inc.: https://pencilsforkidsinc.com/#donate

The Chill Chili Babes (+Ben Katz), all Class of 2010, have stayed connected since graduation through a long-running group email that evolved into a group chat, plus many trips and phone calls over the years. Friends reunited in San Antonio this May to celebrate Libby Parsons’ wedding. Pictured left to right: Sara Agu, Julia Dann, Amelyne Major, Katharine Kiendl, Libby Parsons, Abby Brokaw, Cassiel Archdeacon, Olivia Schaeffer and Ben Katz.

On July 26th, 2025 in Vashon Island, WA – Alex Rentzepis (class of 2016) married Aubrey Kraabel. Their guest list included multiple generations of Scots. Alex’s maternal grandmother – Marge Williams – now 93 – got to join in on the Scots photo. She graduated from Wooster in 1954.  While Aubrey is not a Wooster alum, one of her close friends growing up is and was also featured in the photo.

From left to right: Sarah Litt (’16), Nick Ryan (’16), Ian Herrera (’16), Luke Grisanti (’16), Kate Atwell (’20), Aubrey Kraabel, Alex Rentzepis (’16), Nate Stone (’16), Nate Sundheimer (’17),  Marge Williams (’54), and Aidan Conley (’16)

Don K Campbell,II , 67, died peacefully and unexpectedly in his sleep August 25, 2025.  He lived in Little Rock and is survived by his two sons. His wife predeceased him. He enjoyed his last class reunion this past year.

A dozen Pi Kappa Peanuts alumnae met in Washington, DC and Alexandria, Virigina to enjoy catching up and seeing the sights. We had boat tours, walking tours, bus tours, fine dining and more! It’s always fun to get together.

Back Row: Gaye Kelly Robinson ’78, Joan Blanchard ’78, Carol Bowers ’79, Robin Light ’78, Wendy Beatty Burg ’78, Blake Fidler ’77

Front Row: Cyd Raftus MacDowell ’79, Shelley Griewahn ’79, Lisa Carter ’79, Kimberly Lavin Greenlaw ’78, Cindy Mache ’78, Nancy Toll Huffman ”78

Rebecca Roper ’14 returns to campus as the new Special Collections Librarian for the College of Wooster! My experiences in Special Collections for my history and art history courses changed my career trajectory and inspired me to pursue a Master’s of Library and Information Science. I’m so excited to return to campus and work with the next generations of students and hopefully provide them with similar experiences connecting to the past through our archival materials and rare books. It’s great to be back in the midwest after 6.5 years in Salt Lake City at the University of Utah’s Marriott Library Special Collections. Reach out if you’re returning to campus and would like a peek at the archives!

On July 1, I retired following a 43 year career first as an editor in educational publishing for more than 30 years and then as a paraprofessional assisting special education teachers and students for the last eleven years. I’ve been fortunate to enjoy what I’ve done, but I’m ready to relax, read, travel, and spend more time with my family and friends. My daughter and son-in-law are expecting their first child in November, which I’m incredibly excited about. I’m really looking forward to being a grandma!

Still in France and Italy in my soul.

After retirement at 75, I have remained involved with French and Italian avant-gardes, doing translations as requested. The latest is Lettrism and Inism, exploring those two movements.

I also do woodworking, specializing in upcycling old artefacts.

Carrie Showalter ’97 has been named dean of students and associate vice president for Student Life at West Virginia University. She previously served as assistant dean and executive director of Campus and Community Life and brings valuable experience to her new role, where she will continue supporting students across campus.

Read full article here.

Sammi ‘15 and Ian ‘15 Tulungen welcomed Evelyn Maraya on March 20, 2025.

Keels Dale Bailey died somewhat unexpectedly in Portland, Oregon on May 14, 2025, after recently celebrating his 89th birthday. Dale, as he was generally known, was born in Greenville, South Carolina. The family soon relocated to southeastern Ohio where he grew up. He graduated from Lash High School in Zanesville, Ohio in 1954.

Dale began his journey in higher education at the College of Wooster in Ohio, graduating with a BA in Philosophy in 1958. In 1961, he graduated from Harvard Divinity School with a Master in Divinity and was ordained as a Presbyterian minister. He moved to the Los Angeles area where he served as a Minister of Youth and then Minister of Counseling while pursuing his studies toward a doctorate at the Claremont School of Theology. His course work which was mainly focused on psychology qualified him to be licensed as a clinical psychologist in CA. He earned his doctorate and opened his private practice in Pasadena in 1968.

He relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area in the mid-1970s to be close to his children after he and his first wife divorced. He continued to work with children, individuals, couples and groups. Later in his career, he did advanced training which focused on couples work. He retired soon after moving to Portland, Oregon in 2003.

Dale balanced his professional career with many other interests during and beyond his working years. He loved sports both as participant (football in high school and frisbee in college), and fan (San Francisco 49ers and Oregon Ducks). He enjoyed singing in the chorus at Wooster. His love of travel, especially in Europe, began during a year at Oxford, while on an exchange program for his middle Harvard year. A serious interest in reading, from classics to current events, began for Dale in high school and continued throughout his life.

Dale is survived by his wife of 40 years, Phyllis Bekemeyer; his children, daughter Susan Di Piazza, and son Phillip Bailey (Kristiina); his stepdaughters Maria Peyer (Mike) and Angela Peyer (Jeff); and seven grandchildren, Sarah, Grace, Rachel, Sophia, Luke, Domenico, and Zuzu; and his younger brother, Neil Bailey. His older brothers, Wayne, Ralph, Gary, and Paul preceded him in death. Dale was a loving and supportive husband, father, and grandfather. He especially enjoyed his close relationships with the grandchildren.

Providing a welcoming and comfortable home for his growing family to live and later gather together was a priority for Dale. He had picked up many building skills over his younger life which often enabled him to work side by side with professionals he hired for remodels of his homes both in CA and in OR. One of his favorite projects was the transformation of the rear garden area, complete with a generous sized gazebo to protect from sun and Oregon rain. This was one of his favorite places to sit and read. And it was the site of many family gatherings—even Christmas during Covid!

The other project very dear to his heart was the Elf Village he built for the neighborhood children along the sidewalk in the front garden. Early on, there were mailboxes To and From the Chief Elf, Ragizo, with whom the children could correspond. A few parts of the village survive to this day and continue to bring joy to children who pass by. And until nearly the end of his life, Dale loved watching them pause to play.

Congratulations to Devin Cotton ’13 and Joey Stoffer ’14 on their selection to Engage! Cleveland’s 25 Emerging Professionals!

See press release:

Engage! Cleveland is thrilled to announce the annual 25 in 25 Awards Ceremony, a celebration of the city’s most accomplished emerging professionals.

On Thursday, June 12th, 2025, The Aviator Cleveland will come alive as Engage! Cleveland honors 25 exceptional individuals who are making waves in their careers, communities, and personal lives. This event, held during the 12th Annual Cleveland Young Professionals Week, is set to become an annual tradition, with plans to recognize 25 rising stars in 2025 and beyond.

The 25 Emerging Professionals You Need to Know in 2025 were handpicked through a thoughtful and highly competitive nomination process, celebrating those whose peers recognized their outstanding accomplishments across professional, civic, and personal arenas. Representing a vibrant spectrum of industries, experiences, and perspectives, this dynamic group reflects the remarkable breadth of talent shaping Cleveland’s future. From a tireless advocate for police accountability to a trailblazing marketing strategist, this year’s 25 in 25 honorees exemplify what it means to lead, inspire, and drive meaningful change in our city. Join Engage! Cleveland as we honor these bright minds and spark a renewed sense of pride and possibility in Cleveland’s next generation.

25 in 25 Awards Program Honors Local Emerging Talent In Annual Ceremony

Frank Lehner (’76) has had his first full-length of poetry published—officially launched in late July at the storied Pittsburgh bookstore, White Whale Books.  As the poet Lynn Emmanuel writes:

“Frank Lehner’s new book, Mrs. Nussbaum’s Monkey, is a Pittsburgh pastoral. It is a love poem and a field guide to the unknown landscape that exists beneath and beyond the truisms about blue collar, industrial cities in America. Here, Lehner is the Whitman of his city. ‘I dress in the sacred garment of streets,’ he writes. And he drenches those streets in tenderness, generosity, and a welter of unexpected detail. Mrs. Nussbaum’s Monkey is a tribute to the unknownness of place, of the many surprising places this industrial city represents. This book is an eloquent revision. A revelation.”

The book can be had via Bookshop.org or any online book outlet.

A personal note: I would love to hear from any and all of you—franklehner@gmail.com

This summer, these three Wooster alums met up at the Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, WV, for a weekend of golf and good times. Coach Paris is preparing to return in November with his South Carolina Gamecock basketball team in November for the Greenbrier Classic tournament. Pictured L to R, Lamont Paris (’96), Ro Fernandez (’97), and  Todd Bescak (’95)

Marks of a Maker by Abby Johnston gives insights into the career of Tim McCreight ’73

What does it mean to be a maker? And, what if your brand of making breaks barriers, then what kind of mark does that leave? This publication, Tim McCreight: Marks of a Maker serves as an in-depth exploration and record of several areas within the field of craft on which McCreight has left a unique and indelible mark. This book will investigate McCreight’s influence on educating and publishing to the pioneering of new materials, being a working Maine artist, as well as co-founding a global humanitarian initiative. For McCreight, an unpretentious man of modest beginnings, all of those contributions would be impressive on their own, what is notable is the fact that his quiet yet expansive reach has transformed disciplines and inspired and altered the lives of makers the world over.

It’s no secret that Maine is a cradle of creative ingenuity and Tim McCreight is a living embodiment of that heritage. And, now more than ever, in this time of short attention spans and manufactured intelligence, we need a true model that can inspire and guide us in the making of a creative life well made, and McCreight is just that individual. Tim McCreight: Marks of a Maker is for students, artists of a variety of disciplines, educators, collectors, philanthropists and entrepreneurs as well as for those who are curious about exceptional people disguised as ordinary folks. My hope is that this book will serve as inspiration for you to consider what it means to leave a mark.

This year has been a strange one so far.  While visiting a friend in Florida, my husband, Dewey, died,  The fact that he had a heart attack and two 94 percent clogged arteries came as a shock as he had no indication of any heart trouble.  We were to celebrate his 96th birthday in two weeks.  This shock only deepened when my beloved Westie, Lady, drown three days after Dewey died.  What I have learned in the following months was how very much work had to be done in changing names. etc.  It has been non stop!  I am most fortunate to have a daughter, son in law and two grandsons ten minutes away.  They have and continue to be a great help with all that must be taken care of including a large two story house!

They have been great to include me in their plans.  This means giving a luncheon at my house for my older grandson, Sprague’s high school graduation.  Then my younger Grandson, Robert has gotten INTO theater and wants to see all plays possible.  This lead to 5 days in NYC to see plays.  He managed 6 in four days.  I only saw 4!   Then they had us off to London, more plays including Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, and Merry Wives of Windsor at the rebuilt Globe theater.  Since I know walk with hiking sticks (better than a Cane!!! They keep you upright and make walking farther possible), I found people in Europe are exceptionally kind to people with a hardship!

After London, we went to Paris and arrived day before Bastille Day.  This allowed us to see the war machine part of the parade.  They parked vehicles like tanks and other machines on the street so people could look and climb them.  As my son-in-law, John, said a War machine petting zoo.  I was more tired there  Also finally got to see the Rodin Museum.  All in all these were great trips.  I came home tired but happy.  Now am at the Surfside Beach with a friend.

Next on the agenda is preaching in a church I served 40 years ago on August 30.  That is what I must now get done!!!

Submitted by Charlotte Wiegand Kibler – August 6, 2025

On June 7, 2025, Alexis Lanier, class of 2020, and Shay Steele, class of 2020, were married in Medina, Ohio, having met at Wooster during their first week of band camp.

Wooster alumni in attendance included (from left to right):

Erin Robichaud (’21), Sarah Rapacz (’21), Alex Doone (’20), AJ Arriaga (’20), Emily Randall (’20), Reid Golnik (’20), Katarina Baltisberger (’20), Alexis Lanier (’20), Shay Steele (’20), Claire Montgomery (’20), Sarah Vandenbergen (’20), Laurèn Kozlowski (’20), Neva Derewetzky (’20), Elijah Learn (’20), and Alyssa Hamm (’20).

Anne Medlock accepted the position of Associate Dean of Design and Production at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, starting June 2025.

I’m excited to share that I’ve recently joined American University Washington College of Law as adjunct faculty, where I’ll be teaching Business Association/Corporate Law.

After graduating from Wooster with a degree in Computer Science in 2003, my path took me through additional studies in economics and eventually to Georgetown Law. Over the past decade-plus, I’ve had the opportunity to work on technology transactions and commercial contracts at companies like Verizon and Hewlett Packard Enterprise, as well as a stint at the Department of Justice focusing on government contracting and ethics.

Currently, I serve as Outside General Counsel for Shared Assessments and run my own practice specializing in technology transactions and commercial contracts. What I’ve found most rewarding about my career is helping businesses navigate the legal complexities that come with rapidly evolving technology.

I’m looking forward to bringing some of these real-world experiences into the classroom and working with law students as they explore corporate law. It feels like a natural extension of the work I’ve been doing, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to legal education.

The combination of my technical background from Wooster and years of practice should hopefully provide students with a practical perspective on how corporate law applies in today’s technology-driven business environment.

In July this year several of us got together in Washington DC. It was the first time we had seen each other in way too many years, yet those Wooster bonds are strong and it was as if no time had passed at all.

L to R in photo: Candice Davis Palya ’90, Page Benham Langley ’91, Kim Wachter Harmon ’90, Ruth Reynolds Cotter ’90, Sarah Briggs McIntyre ’90, Julie Rivinus ’90, Brooke Dine (Friend- not alumni), Susanne Purvis Jen ’90, and Molly Reeves Dolan ’90

Five Wooster Alumni returned to Nantes, France, for an IES Abroad reunion from June 12-15, 2025.  All five alums spent either a year or a semester abroad studying in Nantes.  Pictured : Lisa Sward ‘77, Gretchen (Gue) Petrie ‘77, Chuck Russel ‘77, Marie Schroeder ‘17, and Marta Boyer ‘07.

Last month, Heather O’Brien, from Wooster’s Development team traveled to Florida and we had an opportunity to meet for lunch.  We had a lovely time – me reminiscing about my time at Wooster and she updating me on everything that is happening on campus now!  I still have the Wooster beanie that my mother made for me.

James grew up in Eastlake, Ohio in the 1950s and 1960s, the eldest son of Gerald and Josephine (née Frey) Austin. His father was a World War 2 veteran, who flew gliders into occupied Europe, and his mother was an elementary school teacher. James’ childhood was that of a bygone Rockwellian era – his summers were spent, playing baseball, fishing and hunting squirrels with his brother Snick, his dog Rex, and the neighborhood boys. It was the post-war America that bred self-reliance, fierce loyalty, lifelong friendships and more so than anything else, a moral compass that guided him throughout his life.

After graduating from Hawken School, where each of his three children followed in his footsteps, Jim earned a bachelor’s degree at the College of Wooster. Jim was a son of Cleveland, and the arc of his life mirrored that of the city itself. After starting his career as a floor manager in the steel mills that defined the Cleveland of his youth, Jim continued to grow. He earned a Masters of Business Administration from Cleveland State University. Though he might have rather become a professor, he joined his wife in building their small, family accounting practice in Chesterland, Ohio, the wholesome small-town where they chose to raise their family.

Family was always the most important aspect of James’ life. He met his wife, Karen M.N. Austin (née Niedermeyer) in 1976, they were married in 1979, and they welcomed three children, Timothy, Alexandra, and Ben in the years that followed. James poured his heart and soul into raising his children and he was ever-present in their upbringing. What most will remember of James was that he never missed one of his children’s sporting events (and that it was somehow understood that the rules about parents remaining in the stands just did not apply to him; his place was on the sideline closest to the team). However, his focus extended much further, in particular to education and integrity. He always said that education is the one thing in life that no one can take away from you, and that the most valuable asset you will ever own is your integrity. Later in life, reflecting on the years past, James would tell those he loved that being a dad was the greatest privilege and pleasure of his life. In his own way, it was a reminder to never forget to enjoy the here and now, as it is all that is promised.

James could not have been more excited to meet his grandchildren, Bryce, Kensington, Brooks, and Saylor. The grandkids quickly learned that ‘Grandpa Jim’ was the guy to call if they needed their toys assembled, or if they wanted to sneak a milkshake. He took great pleasure in watching the grandkids play, swim, sail and play tennis.

James is survived by his three children, Ben, Alexandra, and Timothy (Arianna) Austin, his brother, Richard (Caroline) Austin, and his four grandchildren, Bryce, Kensington, Brooks, and Saylor Austin.

Alumni gathered in downtown Columbus on July 19 to watch the Columbus Crew play D.C. United. Despite the rain, alumni had a great time cheering on the Crew as they won 2-1.

Classes 1977-1980 represented. Was like it was just yesterday that we had been together.

Class of 1984 Kevin Brode, David Stubbles, Jim Ulrich, Ben LeVan and Bob LaMonte met at Watkins Glen, NY met for a mini reunion in spring of 2025

Selected by ACEC Georgia’s 100 Influential Women in Engineering Committee, Jocelyn Lion ’15 was named one of Georgia’s 35 Under 35 Women to Know in Engineering by Engineering Georgia magazine.

Engineering Georgia May/June 2025

The new book, What a Building Does: The Hoosier Modernisms of Evans Woollen, explores Indianapolis’s modern architecture. The first biography of Evans Woollen, the “dean of Indiana architects”.

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. Hoosier architect Evans Woollen (1927-2016) made a profound contribution to the built identity of Indianapolis, Indiana. Most recognized for introducing concrete Brutalism to the city, his practice was in fact surprisingly diverse, ranging from well-known public buildings to more humble homes, churches, and urban plans. Some loved his proudly modern buildings, while others found them challenging, severe, or even
ugly. All agreed they were boundary pushing for their time, the handiwork of an iconoclastic architect on the cutting edge of contemporary design.
Richly illustrated with both new and never-before-seen archival photography, What a Building Does: The Hoosier Modernisms of Evans Woollen tells the complete story of this essential Midwestern practitioner for the first time: from his early years as a student of architect Philip Johnson; to his decision to open
his practice in Indianapolis; to his later professional successes across the state and beyond. Exploring the dynamic ideas which shaped Woollen’s architecture and the complex relationship he held with Indianapolis, his hometown, What a Building Does expands the narrative of modern architecture and its legacy in
the American Midwest.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Phillip Cox is a writer and native Hoosier. He now lives in New York City where he previously worked for the design firm Pentagram.
Niall Cronin is a photographer in New York City. Born in Indianapolis, his work has been shown at the Indianapolis Museum of Contemporary Art (iMOCA)
and Edington Gallery. He’s been published in the Financial Times, Fast Company, and Time Out.

Read More

Jordan Bell ’13 is a co-creator of Good People Content, a creative platform launched alongside fellow Wooster alumni David Grunfeld ’13 and William Farrow ’14. Together, the trio produces a range of original series that blend culture, commentary, and creativity—including Reboot, where they reimagine iconic films, and Song of the Week, where they highlight standout tracks across genres and eras. Jordan also hosts Cleveland Sports Talk with JB, a series focused on all things Cleveland sports—past, present, and future.

The team is especially excited about their upcoming interview with major Bay Area rapper LaRussell, as part of their effort to spotlight emerging artists and voices shaping the culture.

Good People Content is built on collaboration and community, and Jordan, David, and William are always looking for more people to get involved—especially fellow Wooster alumni. To learn more or connect with the team, visit: https://linktr.ee/goodpplecontent

My name is Colin Omilanowski ’16 and I’m a PhD candidate in the Anthropology Department within the Mediterranean Archaeology track. I focus on ancient Roman urbanism and digital applications in Greco-Roman archaeology. For June, I excavated part of a market space at the Roman city of Falerii Novi, Italy. For July, I am excavating at a Roman villa by the Medieval village of Lugnano in Teverina, also in Italy.  

If you have any questions about what archaeologists do, I’m always happy to chat via email: omilanowski@arizona.edu

Thirteen alumni from the classes of 1977 through 1980 met for a long weekend at the vacation home of Win Stevens (1979) and his wife in Lewisburg, West Virginia.  We are a small portion of the alumni group that has been meeting every Friday via Zoom since the COVID lockdown in 2020 (New members always welcomed!).

We last got together in New Orleans in October of 2023. The photo was taken at the Greenbrier Resort on a visit to the Congressional Bunker that was established there during the Cold War.

We mourn Cocktail Hour loyal attendee Kenneth Parker Moore (1977) who passed last December.

(Front to Back, Left to Right)

1st Row John Redfield (1977),  John Reich (1979), Susan Black Kerr (1979)

2nd Row: Merle Van Houten, Anne Stevens, Timothy Kerr (1979)

3rd Row: Gary Davisson (1977), Robert MacMahon (1977), Anne Baird Scotland (1977), Martha Ross King (1980)

4th Row: Kathy Craft Reich, Daniel Barker (1978), Robert King (1978), Cynthia Redfield

5th Row: Robyn Selby Barker (1979), Winthrop Stevens (1979), John Scotland (1977)

Eric ’65 and Debbie Fagans were recently recognized for their commitment to community service in the Albany, NY, area by Capital Region Gives, an initiative that supports non-profits in the Hudson Valley. When Eric and Debbie learned that fewer than 10% of students at Giffen Elementary School in Albany’s South End could read at grade level, they created a free one-to-one after-school tutoring program for these struggling readers. They inspired others to join them in the cause, raising more than $50,000 to transform a former industrial kitchen into a welcoming tutoring space.

The couple didn’t stop there. They sold their home in a largely white suburb and moved into the South End to become part of that underserved community. Eric served on the South End Neighborhood Association and personally built stairs for several neighbors in need. Debbie forged strong ties with the teachers at the neighborhood’s elementary school and helped one of the parents of a Wizard’s student become a naturalized citizen. In conjunction with the Greater Capital Region’s Teacher Center, Debbie developed Wizard’s two-day tutor training program, which includes segments on how racism and poverty affect children and how toxic stress affects brain development.

Until recently, Eric served as president of Wizard’s Wardrobe’s board of directors from the start and now supports the next generation of leaders.

Their creation has made a measurable difference in the South End and the city as a whole. Every student starts at Wizard’s reading below grade level, and all improve their reading skills working with a Wizard’s tutor. Two-thirds of those who received tutoring for three or more years are reading at or above their grade level.

In their own words: “Our faith calls us to respond to needs that we see, and the current one is helping young students become all that they can be. In fact, helping others is everyone’s responsibility.”

When Dr. Laura Markley becomes president of Akron Children’s Medical Staff on July 1, it will mark a meaningful personal and professional moment. As a toddler, she was hospitalized at Akron Children’s with a life-threatening infection — one that would later become largely preventable through routine childhood immunization. Now, as a physician leader, she hopes to use her story to promote education around pediatric health and address some of the confusion and concern she sees surrounding topics like vaccination.

Read Full Story

As Mother of the Bride, I was happy to celebrate the marriage of my daughter Joy Reeves to Max Sano in Waterford, Connecticut on June 8th along with other Wooster graduates (including my son.) From left to right: Bobbi Coluni and Jill Reeves, class of 1984, Tom Truss, class of 1983, and Gordon Reeves and Jen Mynard, class of 2023.

From the Texas Juvenile Justice Department’s professional announcements:

TJJD is proud to announce that Anne Garcia Fine will be joining the agency as chief financial officer.

Fine has worked for five years at the Legislative Budget Board (LBB) as a budget analyst. She holds a Master’s of Public Affairs degree from the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas, as well as a Master of Education with a focus on special education from Roosevelt University, in Chicago, and a bachelor’s degree from the College of Wooster, in Ohio.

“When Emily [Anderson, Deputy Executivr Director, TJJD] approached me with the possibility of working for TJJD it just felt like kismet, like everything came together with my interests and passions. Everything I’ve been working toward it makes sense now with this move,” she said.

In her new role, Fine will be analyzing program needs, reviewing legislative performance measures and helping with legislative reports.

Several Wooster friends joined us for a celebration at North Presbyterian Church in Williamsville, NY. Back Row: Betsy Arthur Greno (’78), Bill Huffman (’77), Gaye Kelly Robinson (’78), Jim (Robbi) Robinson (’75), Jim Everett (’79), Andy McKelvey (’83), Cathi Mache McKelvey (’82), Cindy Mache (’78); Front Row: Nancy Toll Huffman (’78).

Wayne Cornelius closed out a 55-year academic career by publishing a final research article in the  interdisciplinary Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies. The article can be downloaded for free from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1369183X.2024.2441831.  Wayne rejoices that he can now devote himself full-time to his post-retirement career, providing canine therapy for critical care patients at Kaiser Permanente hospitals in metro Portland, Oregon, with his white Labrador Bentley. He also trains MD students in how to use this type of therapy in their care plans.

Three members of the swim team were able to meet up in Paris! Maggie Layne ’28, Mariam Zayour ’25, and Celia Gehrke ’25

Raymond ‘Chip’ Clarence Rupert, Jr. was born in New Waterford, Ohio on September 13, 1953. Chip was the youngest son of Raymond Rupert, Sr. and Martha Mahon. He had two older brothers named Larry Rupert and Theodore (Ted) Rupert. Chip graduated from Crestview High School in 1971, before attending the College of Wooster in Ohio. During his freshman year at Wooster, Chip met Carol Jackson, whom he began dating and married following their college graduation in 1975. Chip and Carol began their marriage living in Lakewood, Ohio. In 1977, they welcomed their first child, Erika. In 1980, they adopted their second child, Curt (aged 19 months), while Carol was pregnant with their third child, Adam, who was born in 1981. The family moved to Coatesville, Pennsylvania in 1983 when Chip began working as a salesman for Hilti, selling tools and repairing machinery used in steel mills across the East Coast. While living in Coatesville from 1985 – 2001, Chip and Carol adopted their fourth and fifth children, Ely and Diego, in 1988 and 1994, respectively. Chip was a dedicated member of Olivet United Methodist Church, where he served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and led teams in annual Appalachian Service Project missions. Chip was known for his deep knowledge of scripture and his emotionally vulnerable ability to connect God’s Word with everyday life and in his relationships. In 2001, Chip and Carol moved to Jenkintown, PA. While there, Chip continued to work for Hilti until his retirement in 2009, following 26 years of service. In Jenkintown, Chip was a member of Grace Presbyterian Church. In 2010, Chip and Carol moved to Birdsboro, PA. Chip held several service-oriented jobs until he fully retired in 2018. He attended Harmony Methodist Church, where he was a deacon and occasionally preached sermons. In 2018, Chip and Carol moved back to the Jenkintown area, this time living in Glenside. Chip returned to Grace Presbyterian where he was an active member of the church until his death. On May 29, 2025, Chip peacefully went home to be with the Lord. Chip was a man of deep and vibrant faith. His warmth, kindness, and steadfast prayers left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He had a heart for people, especially those many of us might forget or never think to pray for, and he lived every day in pursuit of Jesus. He’ll be remembered for his storytelling, humor, and willingness to invite everyone into his life. Chip is survived by his wife of 50 years, Carol; his daughter Erika and her husband Richard and their sons, Cody, Talon, and Tyler; his son Curt; his son Adam and his wife Kristin and their daughters, Grace, Olive, and Sylvia; his son Diego; and his daughter Ely. He is also survived by his brother Ted and his wife Donna. Memorial Service will be held at 2:30 PM on Sunday, July 13, 2025, Grace Presbyterian Church, 444 York Road, Jenkintown, PA where relatives and friends will be received from 1:30 PM until the time of the service and during a reception after the service.

Bryan Partridge (2000), our kids, and I were on a boat in Aruba this past February and we discovered that Colleen Abel (2000) was on the same parasailing adventure with her daughter!

Just a quick note to let old friends know that my wife and I have moved to State College, PA.  Home to Penn State, it is also home to a number of my siblings and nephew. We miss Atlanta and the South, but the presence of family, beautiful scenery and the gifts that come from living in a university town are very seductive.  New places, new people, new adventures!

Albert Darling ‘16 married Waverly Hart ‘20 in Columbus, OH on May 4, 2024.

After a conversation at The South Kona Green Market, where I said “tired is just another word for not enough coffee,” I began jotting down other humorous definitions that a coffee-bewitched reader might enjoy, and, well, I got a little carried away. There are plenty of dry, factual books about coffee, but The Coffee Lover’s Dictionary goes where other coffee books can’t. It is not a reference book – but it could be used as one, and it’s not a cook book – but there are drink and dessert recipes. It is meant to be read, shared, and enjoyed.

The Coffee Lover’s Dictionary is aimed at both the casual coffee lover and the serious coffee professional who wants to learn a bit of coffee history and to pick up some good trivia to share across the counter. Word play, history, and facts and figures, collide in an entertaining latte of coffee-based humor. It is destined to become mandatory reading for both professional baristas and coffee-obsessed amateurs.

Caffeine is the world’s favorite – or at least the most used – mind-altering substance. Additionally, coffee is the favorite caffeine delivery system in the English-speaking world. There are currently over 30,000 Starbucks worldwide; half of them in the US. Additionally, there are 3400 Costa Coffees, 2000+ Panera, and over 500 Prêt à Manger. In the US alone there are over 31,000 coffee shops, and after the COVID-19 pandemic, drinking coffee in cafés was one of the first activities to bounce back and a search for the word “coffee” on Amazon.com is performed over five million times per month.

The Coffee Lover’s Dictionary is available in stores and on all online platforms now.

For interview requests and any questions, feel free to email.

Timothy Bruno – Website

CoHost of Living a French Life on YouTube

Author of The Coffee Lovers Dictionary

Author of the Coffee Lover’s Tasting Guide and Journal

Author of the upcoming C is for Coffee: Drinks

Former Kona coffee farmer
Blogging at Procaffeination.com, Putting It Off Until You’ve Had a Cup

Lots of fun and silliness at our Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/181241832815881/

Just boring old Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ProcaffeinationNation/

Anne Kelso Johnson, 89, passed away on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Manor Court in Carbondale, Ill.

Anne was born on May 7, 1936, in Carlinville, Ill., to Maxwell and Ruth Kelso. They later settled in Euclid, Ohio, where Anne attended high school. She earned a bachelor’s degree in zoology from The College of Wooster in Ohio. After graduation, she taught high school in Lyndhurst, Ohio, for three years before enrolling at The Ohio State University to earn a master’s degree in zoology.

She then planned to study oceanography at the University of Hawaii. However, she took a physics class in her final semester at Ohio State that would change the course of her life. The teaching assistant for that class was a fellow graduate student named Ken Johnson, and he would become her future husband. They married on August 4, 1962, and embarked on a 63-year journey that lasted until her death.

In 1970, Anne and her family moved near Carbondale, Ill., when Ken accepted a teaching position in the physics department at Southern Illinois University. A few years later, Anne started her own career at SIU as an instructor in the physiology department. She spent the next 25 years teaching human anatomy to pre-med students – a profession that she loved.

Anne also served as a former president of the Carbondale Lions Club, a volunteer at Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge, an organizing committee member for the River to River Relay, and a member of the board of directors for the League of Illinois Bicyclists (now known as Ride Illinois).

When she wasn’t teaching, volunteering or spending time with her family, Anne enjoyed gardening and exploring nature. She was passionate about wildlife, and it wasn’t unusual to find her incubating an abandoned duck egg or moving a snake off the road so it wouldn’t be run over.

She loved to stay physically active and fearlessly tried new sports. Throughout her life, Anne enjoyed ice skating, water skiing, synchronized swimming, horseback riding, competing in local triathlons, skiing and golfing. An avid cyclist, she rode her bike hundreds of miles over the roads of Illinois and Michigan. Even into her 70s, she continued to ride locally.

Although dementia depleted her mind and body in her final years, Anne lived her life to the fullest, always seeking out new adventures and challenges.

She is survived by her husband, Ken Johnson; children Robert (Jane) Johnson, Rick (Cash) Johnson and Lauri (Bryan) Johnson; grandchildren Catherine, Tristan, David, Max, Brooklyn and Sadie; brother Bob (Pam) Kelso; and four beloved cats. Her parents and brother Donald preceded her in death.

Anne’s remains, as per her request, will be cremated.

A celebration of life reception will be held on Saturday, July 26, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Hickory Ridge Golf Course in Carbondale, Ill.

I have retired!

– 30 wonderful years in the wine industry…

– 15 years selling smoothies & juice…combined with 12 years driving the COW athletic teams around the country…

all were fun and rewarding….as will the next 30+ years!!

I have left private practice in workers’ compensation and joined the Kentucky Department of Workers’ Claims. I’m enjoying the more predictable work schedule, which allows for better family time and umpiring youth baseball. I recently enjoyed catching up with James Rusk ’96.

Jeanne Babcock Carley died peacefully at home on April 2, 2025, just shy of her 95th birthday, surrounded by her loving husband and three children. She fittingly died during the season in which she was born, when daffodils bloom, birds sing, and Easter is celebrated.
Born on April 21, 1930, in Lockport, NY, Jeanne was the firstborn of Henry I and Berniece Averell Babcock. She expressed gratitude for her loving upbringing, crediting her empathy for others to her family’s care for her Aunt Lili, who had MS.
Jeanne graduated from Lockport Senior High School and The College of Wooster with a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies. She credited her college education and discussions on comparative religions and Bible study for being “eye opening” and developing her passion for theology and social issues, guiding her way of living and teaching others.
She met her lifelong sweetheart and husband of nearly 74 years, Harry, while Christmas caroling in Lockport, NY, in 1949. She said he “was the most wonderful thing which ever could have happened to me.” They married in 1951. Jeanne described Harry as “truly my other half”. They lived in various places, including the Midwest, Newfane, NY, Corning, NY, Dundee, NY, and Pittsford, NY.
Harry and Jeanne enjoyed traveling and spent two months living with a family in Copenhagen, Denmark early in their marriage. They took the family on a month-long cross-country train trip in 1965. The family enjoyed many camping trips with sailboat in tow. They traveled to Israel and Egypt, twice to Europe and participated in many Road Scholar trips, including taking their 2 oldest granddaughters on the Zodiac Schooner in Puget Sound.
Jeanne held several roles throughout her life, including Minister’s Assistant, Director of Christian Education, library assistant, and classroom aide. Her favorite job was working for Steuben County RSVP in Corning, NY, where she partnered senior citizens with non-profit agencies.
She showed love to her family by running a tight ship, baking the best pies and cherished Christmas cookies, creating strong traditions for birthdays and holidays and fastidiously cleaning (once using a friend’s toothbrush to clean the bathroom!) Jeanne integrated her family into a strong, loving church community at First United Methodist Church in Corning, NY, instilling values of social justice, compassion, dignity, respect, and intellectual curiosity in her children. She said her proudest achievement was “the lives and attitudes that her children are living.”
Before and after retirement, Jeanne was an active volunteer for many United Methodist and UCC churches. Her roles included serving as Chairman of the Family Life Committee, director of family week camps at Casowasco, Council on Ministries and Administrative Board and church schoolteacher. As members of Penn Yan United Methodist Church, she and Harry worked hard and succeeded at creating a welcoming statement which resulted in the church becoming an open, affirming, and welcoming congregation.
Jeanne was also involved in the AAUW and the Experiment in International Living and in the 1960’s participated in the Corning area Bi-racial committee, bringing black and white community members together in efforts to end local racial discriminatory practices.
A deep love of hers was being on the water, instilled by growing up at the family cottage on Lake Ontario. In 1967, she and Harry took the plunge and bought their own sailboat. Many grand adventures followed on Lake Ontario and the Finger Lakes. They built their dream home on Seneca Lake and lived there for 23 years, enjoying being able to sail “Lollipop” from the dock in front of their house.
Jeanne and Harry were avid square dancers as members of several square dance clubs throughout their lives, loving it so much that she chose to have heart surgery at age 87 so she could “keep on dancing.” She also enjoyed gardening, gourmet dinner clubs and participation in many progressive groups. She and Harry worked hard on the successful anti-fracking campaign with the Finger Lakes Progressives. She and Harry moved to the Highlands of Pittsford in 2014 where she served on the Board of Christian Education at the United Church of Pittsford. At the Highlands, she enjoyed giving suggestions to Chef Mike (who made her special ham sauce one Easter), book study groups, gardening, the Go Green club and Mahjong.
Jeanne loved participating in book study clubs, loving philosophy and valuing the insights of authors of religious scholarship. Her faith journey led her to have “more questions than answers” and at age 90 said she was still growing and learning and becoming more progressive as she read more theologians’ perspectives.
Her advice to younger generations was to “Work for the common good. For your livelihood, do what you love though you may not be rich. Ask for help when needed, and keep active”. She wished for her grandchildren to always be learning and working for just causes.
Jeanne is survived by her loving husband, Harold (Harry) Carley, Pittsford NY; her children: Jennifer Carley, Salem OR, Stephen Carley (Debra Dudick), Beaver Dams NY and Melissa Carley Manning, Mechanicsburg PA; her grandchildren: Emilia Brasier (Tommy), Camas WA, Rachael Pechart (Stephen) of Dauphin PA and Carley Manning (Thomas Lenker), Elizabethville, PA; her great-grandchildren who brought her great joy: Aiden, Audrey, Aurora, Eden, Lucy, Alexandria and Marianna; Siblings: Carol Christie, Franklin, NC, Peggy Stenzel (Bud), Fayetteville, PA and Jim Babcock (Elaine), Concord, CA, Sister-in-law, Helen Hall, Hilliard OH. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was especially close to Diane Grimble Kowalski. She was predeceased by her parents, Henry and Bernice Babcock, sister, Linda Grimble, in-laws Paul Grimble, Ronnie Christie and nephew, Andy Stenzel.
The family expresses deep gratitude to Dr. Imran Chaudhary and staff, Nursing Assistant Samantha Ortiz, and many aides, including Nisa, Darryl, Nikki, Kathy and Carmen; end of life doula, Lauren Sample, Chaplain Andrew Schep, music therapist Kim and hospice RN, Cheryl Hosey from URMC. Per her wishes, Jeanne’s body was donated to the Anatomical Gifts Program at the University of Rochester.
A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held on May 31 at 11 AM at United Church of Pittsford, 123 S. Main St, Pittsford NY.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in lieu of flowers.

Hinshaw Adds Health Care Partner in Springfield

Katie Anderson brings a mix of in-house, regulatory, and medical malpractice experience

 May 7, 2025 – Hinshaw & Culbertson today announced that Katie Anderson has joined the firm’s Health Care practice group in the Springfield, Illinois, office. Previously with Heyl, Royster, Voelker & Allen, she brings significant in-house experience at a hospital and regional health system, in addition to private law practice.

“Katie adds significant knowledge of the inner workings and business considerations for health care systems and providers,” said Adam Guetzow, chair of Hinshaw’s Health Care Practice Group. “With her regulatory and compliance experience and strong track record in medical malpractice defense, she will help us better serve clients at a time of uncertainty with the changing regulatory landscape. We are thrilled that she’s joined the firm.”

Anderson has a successful track record defending physician practice groups and individual physicians in medical malpractice litigation, and advises clients on professional liability, federal and state regulatory compliance issues, and employment matters. In addition, she represents clients in transactional matters, executive compensation, risk management, and contract review. She decided to join Hinshaw because of the firm’s robust health care practice and broad scope of legal services.

“Joining the firm allows me to better serve my clients by meeting all of their legal needs,” Anderson said. “I’m passionate about health care and helping my clients manage rapidly evolving regulatory and legal changes. Hinshaw also provides me with an opportunity to expand my practice. My previous in-house experience has given me an in-depth understanding of my clients’ internal operations and business needs, and helps me provide creative solutions in an efficient way.”

Prior to joining Heyl, Royster, Voelker & Allen, Anderson was senior associate general counsel at Memorial Health System, and previously served as Vice President of Legal Affairs and Corporate Compliance at Decatur Memorial Hospital. She also practiced law at Kehart, Trimble, Wise, Anderson & Booth. She received her B.A. in psychology from College of Wooster in Wooster, Ohio, and her J.D. from Case Western Reserve University School of Law.

“Katie’s experience greatly expands our capabilities in the region,” said Charles Schmadeke, partner-in-charge of the Springfield office. “She will allow us to continue expanding our health care practice while meeting our clients’ growing needs for legal services.”

Studio Art and Philosophy alumna Rebecca Wu ’22, who painted the portrait of former president Sarah Bolton during her time at Wooster, continues to make her mark in the art world.

After earning her MFA from Pratt in 2023, Rebecca now celebrates her first solo exhibition, titled Joy of Yesterday, at Make Room in Los Angeles.

Explore the exhibition: Rebecca Wu – Joy of Yesterday

Liang Cheng ’15 has been nominated for a Tony Award as a co-producer of The Hills of California, which opened on Broadway in fall 2024.

Based in New York City, Liang works as a software engineer and began exploring Broadway producing as a side career over the past two years. The Hills of California marks his first project as a co-producer and it has just been nominated for Best Play at the 2025 Tony Awards.

Busy Spring of 2025 with Wooster visits! Met up with Jim Mintum 82′ down in Bonita Springs in March ! We had not seen each other since 1981 and had a wonderful visit! Then after seeing Jim i went and played golf with Quentin Roe 80′ Bruce Downing 80′ and Stan Spindler 83′. It was a fantastic 24 hours of catching up and spending time with great Alums!

My son Daniel will be married in Ireland on June 1st to Casey Considine! Daniel is an attorney in Boston at Ropes and Gray!

His sister Anna runs an airline catering company in Miami and he twin brother Jake is a student in Tucson AZ!!

Life is good!!

In the Spring of 2024 I was promoted to Campus President of Fortis College in Mobile, AL. Fortis is a career and technical college that prepares students for entry-level employment in allied health and skilled trades careers. I’m honored to support our students as they work toward meaningful and practical goals, and I’m grateful to have an opportunity to lead an institution committed to professional and educational success for our students. I’m proud to share my passion and commitment to lifelong learning with my students, and humbled to be a part of so many people’s professional journey.

Timeka began a new career journey joining Burten Bell Carr, Development, Inc a community development corp (CDC) in her hometown in Cleveland. She is serving in a long term temporary role of Interim Chief Operating Officer. This marks a departure from her 20+ career as a higher education administration.

Jared Berg ’17 and Julia Rothschild ’17 welcomed their first child, Maxwell Joseph Berg, on March 29, 2025.

Shea (Davisson) Easley ’08 married Patrick Easley on February 8, 2025 in Austin, Texas where Shea’s Wooster Swimming teammates joined to celebrate. Pictured are Denise Gosnell ’08, Shea Easley ’08, Patrick Easley, Kyle Oaks ’08, Adrienne Oaks ’07, and Joe Thomas ’08.

On July 27, 2024, Simon Doong ’15 (center) married Michelle Goff in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Karl Stemen ’15 (right) was a groomsman.

University of Arizona International has been recognized for its outstanding contributions to global education with the Distinguished Contributions to Global Initiatives in Arizona Award from Arizona International Educators (AIE). Additionally, Lara Pfaff, senior business analyst for International Student Services, has been honored with the Exemplary Global Leadership and Service Award for her significant impact in international education.

Arizona International’s Commitment to Global Education

Arizona International (AZI) has been at the forefront of advancing international education and global engagement, ensuring that students and faculty benefit from an interconnected world. This award acknowledges AZI’s transformative initiatives, aligning with Arizona’s land-grant mission and extending the university’s global impact.

AZI’s innovations include the microcampus model, which enables students in 12 countries to earn University of Arizona degrees while fostering international collaboration. Its strategic partnerships with Kazakhstan and Oman have strengthened Arizona’s global leadership in sustainability, water resource management, and food security. Furthermore, AZI’s Office of Mexico Initiatives has expanded educational access for students from Mexico and tribal communities.

Through its leadership in study abroad programming, Arizona International has created financial pathways that enable students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to gain global experiences. The Global Center at the University of Arizona serves as a hub for intercultural exchange, ensuring that international and domestic students alike benefit from a rich cultural environment.

“This recognition by AIE affirms the dedication and innovation of our Arizona International team in advancing global engagement that is rooted in the University of Arizona’s land-grant mission,” said Dr. Jenny Lee, vice president for Arizona International and dean of International Education. “Our efforts are focused on expanding access to international education and fostering partnerships that serve both local communities and global needs.”

Lara Pfaff’s Impact on International Education

Lara Pfaff’s receipt of the Exemplary Global Leadership and Service Award underscores her commitment to enhancing international student services through innovative technology, data analytics, and effective leadership. With over a decade of experience, she has been instrumental in improving services for international students, particularly through her expertise in the international case management software program sunapsis and data-driven solutions.

One of Lara’s most impactful projects has been the development of an institutional dashboard that will provide a deeper understanding of the international student population. This tool has significantly improved data accuracy and reporting, shaping how international student demographics are analyzed within the university and at the state level.

“Lara has a unique skillset that impacts the daily work of ISS and how we serve our international students,” said Marie Willard, interim director of International Student Services. “She understands the importance of quality data, and her analytic skills help tell the story of our international student community.”

Lara’s leadership extends beyond the University of Arizona. Her tenure as Chair for NAFSA Region II in 2023 and her commitment to professional development within international education have solidified her reputation as a visionary leader. Her academic background, which includes a joint Erasmus Mundus Master of Arts in Applied Ethics, further demonstrates her deep understanding of global perspectives and ethical considerations in international education.

Both Arizona International and Lara Pfaff exemplify the University of Arizona’s commitment to global impact. Their recognition by Arizona International Educators (AIE) highlights their efforts in creating meaningful international partnerships, advancing technological solutions, and fostering inclusivity in higher education. Through their work, they continue to position Arizona as a leader in international education, ensuring that students and communities benefit from a truly global perspective.

Elizabeth Hoffman, 83, died peacefully with her family by her side on January 9, 2025.
Beth was born on February 19, 1941, in Madison, Nebraska to Robert and Ruth Templin. Her father was a Presbyterian Minister. Her mother was a Kindergarten Teacher who taught Beth how to play the piano and sew.
From her youth, Beth always valued being of service. As a teenager, she spent a summer volunteering and running a children’s program at Cameron House, in San Francisco’s Chinatown. This experience sparked her life-long love of Asian aesthetics and cross-cultural learning. For the last two years of high school, she worked as a candy striper at a local hospital, which would later inform her decision to become a Medical Social Worker.
Beth was an accomplished cellist and part of a string quartet, along with her sister, Mary, a violinist. She went to the College of Wooster in Ohio, on a musical scholarship for cello, and graduated in 1963 with a degree in Sociology.
Beth met her husband-to-be, Peter ‘Browning’ Hoffman, on a 45-minute flight home from college for Christmas. They courted for 2 years through letters and were married in 1965. Their first daughter, Dawn, was born in 1971, in New Haven, CT, while Browning was at Yale. Shortly thereafter, they moved to Charlottesville, VA where Browning was a tenured professor at UVA. In 1974, they welcomed their second daughter, Heather.
Beth loved being a Mom and fostered a life full of wonder. Sadly, Browning died in 1978, and Beth was faced with major life changes. So enamored as a teenager by a summer spent at Ghost Ranch, Beth moved her two daughters to Santa Fe in 1982, without knowing one person. A courageous single mother, Beth placed her family above all else.
In the summer of 1984, Beth met Bill Heltman, a local jeweler and Dawn’s clarinet teacher, who became her steadfast partner for 42 years. Beth and Bill enjoyed spending time up in Northern New Mexico as well as performances by the Santa Fe Symphony. Bill cared for Beth during her long fight against Parkinsonism.
Beth was an avid reader and gardener. Her passion for nature and fabric arts was obvious and she surrounded herself with beauty and color. She was a creative and enthusiastic person who never stopped learning new things. She adored all things chocolate. Beth never met a stranger who wasn’t a friend as she found at least one thing in common with every person she met.
Beth is survived by her partner, William Heltman, daughters Dawn Hoffman and Heather Park, son-in-law, Jason Park, Grandsons Brodie and Tanner Park and nieces Karen Gilmore, Julie Burke, and Robin Pickart, whom she loved dearly. She will be missed by friends and family alike and by her grandsons who remember spending many afternoons in her kitchen creating frozen concoctions and tie-dying shirts in the backyard. Beth’s memory will live on in the hearts of those that loved her.
We would like to thank the Presbyterian Hospice Nurses & staff at the Santa Fe Care Center who earned the well-deserved title of “angels”.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Ghost Ranch, under the gaze of Pedernal, on Saturday, August 30, 2025. In lieu of flowers, please honor Beth’s memory by giving to ‘a few of her favorite things’ – Donaldina Cameron House, the Ghost Ranch Foundation and Wooster College. For more information, contact Heather at hrhoffman@yahoo.com.

Adam Rose has published his fourth comic book in the Huge Detective series.

Synopsis: After a race of giants emerged from deep sleep beneath the earth, a bloody conflict ensued in what became known as THE OMEGA EVENT. Eventually, a treat is resolved and a the state of Brobdingnag is created, allowing humans and giants to co-exist harmoniously.

Yet tragedy threatens to shatter the peace and an unlikely partnership is formed between Detectives Tamaki and Gyant.

As the pair attempt to stop the criminal at large, they find themselves involved in a mystery bigger than either could imagine.

https://titan-comics.com/?tag__creator=adam-rose

University of New Mexico School of Law Adjunct Professor (CSI and other Experts), retired appellate judge Roderick Kennedy will be participating in “Justice by Video,” an April Program at the University of Colorado College of Media, Communication and Information. His article in the Winter 2024 issue of the American Bar Association’s Sci/Tech Lawyer Magazine, “Police Body Cameras: Analog Thinking About a Digital Question” was part of Dr. Sandra Ristovska’s year-long project on video evidence hosted by the ABA’s Science/Technology Section’s Scientific Evidence Committee of which he is the co-chair.

University Libraries at the University of Akron has presented Brigitte Galauner (Collections & Content Strategies Librarian) with the Dr. Delmus E. Williams Endowed Award. This recognition celebrates Galauner’s dedication and growth in the field of librarianship. She will also be presenting “This Belongs in a Museum! Identifying Materials for University Archives” at The Library Collective 2025 Conference in Kingsport, Tenn., in April. This interactive session will guide participants through best practices for processing library donations and identifying materials that are most relevant to academic library collections and archives.

Annual Shearer House reunion in Bonita Springs , Florida March 19-23, from 6 states: CA, OH, AL, IL,GA, MI. Includes Bill Kozane, Dale Osterman, Dave Roberts, Bruce Shaw, Dave Kirkpatrick, Sam Sisodia, Jim Caruso, & Ernie Fisher, honoring our fallen Eddie Gilliss who always wore his cap backwards!

Five baseball alumni took their Wooster pride on an Orlando adventure. While in Florida, they cheered on the Fighting Scots baseball team to two big wins and proudly sported their new Wooster tees.

L to R are Dan Hyatt ‘73, Tim Fusco ‘74, Mike Patterson ‘75, Bill Henley ‘73 and Chris Nicely ‘74.  Missing are Don Allman ‘74 and Denny Zeiters ‘75, who unfortunately, could not make the trip this year.

Passed away peacefully January 16, 2025 at the age of 76.

Predeceased by her parents, Charles and Marion; sister, Judy Ricks Shackford; infant son; and beloved rescue dogs, Jeb, Nelly and Polly.

Survived by children, Laurie (Angelo) Cutaia and Sarah (Billy) Shaw; grandchildren, Nicholas and Matthew Cutaia, and Liam Shaw; brother, Bob Shackford; sister-in-law Patty; niece, Hannah Brown; nephew, Graham Shackford; and countless treasured friends.

Marion grew up sailing on the Chesapeake Bay and her love for the natural world guided her passions throughout her life. She was happiest outside, spending her free time biking, hiking, kayaking and tending her organic garden.

The true definition of “a people person,” Marion’s outgoing and curious personality earned her friends wherever she traveled in the world. During her career as executive director of adult care facilities, Marion touched the lives of so many seniors and their families.

She had a smile that would put anyone at ease, a notorious sweet tooth and an inability to arrive anywhere on time. She loved dogs and dancing, vacationing with her family and was a car karaoke superstar.

Marion will be missed by all who knew her, particularly by her daughters, who were the loves of her life.

Friends may call to the funeral home (2305 Monroe Avenue), Thursday January 23 rd from 5-7 pm. A Funeral Service will be held Friday, January 24th at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 2000 Highland Avenue at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Marion’s name to the Humane Society.

Marty Lattman ’74 is pleased to announce that his third book is now available on Amazon. The title is “WHY YOU, WHY NOW: Taking the Helm in Today’s World”.

It has become abundantly clear that we need a paradigm shift in what it means to be an effective leader. With so many theories out there, Marty felt compelled to provide a simple definition for this. Building on that framework (which he calls Next-Generation Leader), Lattman also wanted to offer a step-by-step process that anyone could apply to maximize their career success. In particular, his goal was to enable this in a way that reflects today’s values – making a difference and doing meaningful work in addition to advancement and financial rewards.

To make it as practical as possible, Marty included a unique set of tools and methods which are universally applicable. This book is intended for ambitious professionals in any industry, regardless of job function. The readers who will likely gain the most value are in the earlier-to-mid stages of their careers (10-25 years of experience), although others can certainly benefit.

Marty truly believes that everyone must ultimately take ownership of their career success. The key is creation and execution of a personalized Leadership Growth Roadmap. The aim of this book is to facilitate that journey.

Dreams do happen, sometimes when we are better prepared

When I graduated from COW in 1984, my big dream was to move to Monterey CA for graduate school.  There were some unsurmountable roadblocks, mostly financial that prevented me from achieving that dream.  Over time, the dream evolved.  Now, 40 years later, my dream has materialized.  I was able to take advantage of the fast rising housing prices in Florida and sell my house there at the right time. I just bought a home in Northern California in western Placer County.  The dream only took 40 years and morphed a bit to fit reality.  Keep dreaming.

Ruth Durkee ’87, who serves as the Director of Career Technical Education for the State of Vermont’s Agency of Education, is one of two recipients of the prestigious Heart and Hope Award, presented by the National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity, a consortium of state and local agencies, corporations, and national organizations, providing professional development, technical assistance, research and evaluation, and advocacy, to help increase student access, educational equity, and workforce diversity in the educational field.

Durkee will be honored at the National Summit for Educational Equity in Washington, DC on Tuesday, March 18. She was selected because she, “inspire(s) others by believing in the power of innovation while embodying a hopeful tenacity about solving challenging problems.”

Durkee has worked in Vermont’s education field since 1999, and has been the AOE’s CTE director since April of 2020.

The NAPE Heart and Hope Award is intended “to honor a person who has managed major projects or programs with hope, works intentionally with heart and has made a major impact by ensuring that students have access to careers that lead to high-wage, high-skill, in-demand programs of study and careers. This person inspires others by believing in the power of innovation and embodying a hopeful tenacity about solving challenging problems.”

Born East Aurora, NY,  12-24-1935; died Mercer Island, WA, 3-1-2025.  1957 grad Wooster – Physics major.  Grad. studies U of Arizona.  MBA U of Washington.  Physicist with Cornell Aeronaut9cal Labs (Buffalo) & Boeing (Seattle).  35 years as  Administrator of U of WA Physics Dept.  Active in Boy Scouts, camp;ng, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, cross crountry skiing.  Survived by wife Barbara, 3 children, 2 Grandchildren.

Priscilla Miller Hart, of Ellicott City, MD died on December 21, 2024 at Miller’s Grant in Ellicott City, MD. She was 95 years old.

Priscilla was predeceased by her husband Lane and is survived by her daughter Karen Roberts of Hyattsville, MD; her son Lane (Terry) of Denver, CO; her grandchildren Carolyn, Margaret and Kelly; and her sister Ruth Woodcock of Lexington, VA.

Priscilla was born on May 7, 1929 to Evan and Ruth (Wills) Miller She graduated from John Harris High School in Harrisburg in 1947 and received her B.A. in Music from the College of Wooster in 1951.

Priscilla married Lane on May 10,1 952. She and Lane lived in Silver Spring, MD, Cheltenham, England, Columbia MD, Frederick MD and Ellicott City.

Priscilla devoted her early adult life to raising the children before beginning what would become a lifetime of service, characterized by leadership, partnership and compassion. Most notably, she was active in the League of Women Voters at a local and state level, rising to the post of President of the Maryland League.  She was an active member of the Association of Retarded Citizens (ARC) in Montgomery and Howard Counties.

In recognition her service, Priscilla received many awards. The ARC named her as Volunteer of the Year at the County, State and National levels. She received a Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Wooster. She was also named to the Howard County Women’s Hall of Fame for her advocacy for the elderly and the disadvantaged.

Priscilla’s love of music was a consistent theme during her life. She sang in and directed the choir and played the organ while a member of the Silver Spring United Presbyterian church. She sang with various choral groups over the years. She also directed choral groups at the two retirement communities she lived in. On May 8, at the age of 95, she directed her last concert at Miller’s Grant She was, and continues to be, an inspiration to the singers she directed.

Priscilla and Lane were partners in many endeavors; most notably after Lane’s retirement in 1979 when they ran an international wholesale craft business in Columbia to benefit UPAVIM, a women’s cooperative for poor women in Guatemala.

She and Lane partnered in many other activities, including bird watching, crossword puzzles, square dancing, traveling and attending baseball games, concerts and the theatre.

The family requests that contributions be made in Priscilla’s memory to UPAVIM at upavim.org or via check to:

UPAVIM Community Development Foundation

c/o Janessa Landeck

1700 Sheely Dr.

Fort Collins, CO 80526

Ted Hammond & I swam in the masters swim meet in Auburn this weekend!  We first met at this meet last year only because I wore my COW  shirt, after not seeing each other for 50 years. We keep in touch now. But just like 50 years ago at COW Ted still out swims me .

James Perry Arnold Sr., age 61, respectfully known as “COACH,” has joined the heavenly angels and now rests in God’s arms on Sunday, February 9th, 2025

Coach James Arnold was born in Elyria, Ohio, to the late Willie Witherspoon (known as Humpam) of Oberlin and was the first-born son of the late Carolyn E. Francis of Elyria. James often described his life as having “humble beginnings,” emphasizing that he learned to make the most of what he had thanks to the love and strength of his mother.

Coach James Arnold, a 1982 high school graduate of Elyria High and a 1986 – 1987 BS Sociology, distinguished alumnus of the College of Wooster, achieved remarkable success in his favorite sport, football, as a defensive lineman. His achievements, including All-Time Letter Winner (1982-1984), All-North Coast Athletic Conference 1st team (1984), and All-American (1984), stand as a testament to his dedication and skill. He has earned the title of Coach for over 30 years by teaching and training individuals of all ages.

Coach James Arnold faith journey is not just a personal one, but one that has had a profound impact on the community, particularly the youth. His baptism as a young child in 1975 at the Elyria West pool under St. Peter COGIC, late Elder Jones, set the stage for his future role as a mentor. As an adult, he realized the importance of faith in God and believed his faithful ministry was teaching and encouraging the small kids on the football field. His role in mentoring the youth is a powerful testament to the transformative power by inspiring others.

Coach James Arnold demonstrated remarkable leadership skills and successfully managed multiple careers and positions. James served as the first Executive Director of Lorain County Boys & Girls Club, the Lorain Community Action – Heap Program, the Lorain County HeadStart, Lorain County Job & Family Services Adult & Elderly Protection, Manager of Group Homes, the Nord Center, engaging in Telehealth Drug & Alcohol Sponsorship. The greatest one that brought him the most joy was one of the founding fathers of Stone Sports Youth Athletic Association. He loved to play the game and Spades and watch wrestling with his family and friends. Throughout his life, Coach Arnold consulted, managed, supervised, mentored, guided, advocated for, and encouraged many others.

James’s transition to heaven was marked by the love and comfort of his first loving wife, Kimberly L. Arnold (née Kenny) of Middleburg Heights who was at his bedside holding his hand alongside the support and prayer from his favorite cousin Kellie Sparks. Also leaving to treasure his memory is his second wife, Benita M. Mitchell-Arnold of Columbus. To carry forward his legacy are his six children, James P. Arnold Jr. of Elyria, Brock (Cassandra) Arnold of Lorain, Brittnaé Isom of Columbus, James Mitchell of Elyria, David Mitchell of Cleveland, and Emma Arnold of Lorain all were a source of joy and pride for him. His 10 grandchildren are Kyndal Arnold, Aamir Johnson, Quincy Arnold, Baleigh Robinson-Arnold, Kayliana Barbee, KyVon Arnold, Khalill Madison, Kyla Madison, Legacy Mitchell, and Honor Mitchell. His siblings are William (Sandra) Witt of Tucson, AZ, Patricia Williams-Tillman of Elyria, Willie May Witherspoon-Austin and Mark (Edwina) Arnold of Columbus, Ruby Witherspoon-Ellington, Regina Arnold, Louise Francis-Petrov, Louis D. Francis Sr. all of Lorain, Terri Arnold of Elyria, and Stacie Gilliam-Shanklin of Cleveland, OH. And his special longtime friends through thick and thin were Derrick Robbins, Torrence Robinson, and Kuly Petrov.

Coach James Arnold was preceded in death by his parents, Carolyn E. Francis and Willie “Humpam” Witherspoon; his stepfather, Louis D. Francis Sr.; his brothers, Steven Witherspoon Sr. and Levvy Witherspoon; his paternal grandparents, Henrietta and Levvy Witherspoon Sr.; and his maternal grandparents, Virginia and Grady Arnold Sr.

The family is preparing to welcome friends and guests to celebrate his life, share memories, and honor his legacy. The visitation will take place on Friday, February 14th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. On Saturday, February 15th, there will be a final viewing at 11:00 AM, followed by a brief funeral service at 12:00 PM at Brown-Robinson Funeral Home & Celebration Center, located at 6075 Middle Ridge Road, Lorain, OH 44053. Repast to follow.

On October 12, 2024, Mallory Crane, Class of 2019, and Liam Dingle, Class of 2019, were married in Geneseo, NY. Wooster Alumni in attendance included: Benny Moss ’19, Zeke Zeleman ’19, Claire Smrekar ’19, Nikki Bell ’17, Emily Walker ’19, Megan Battersby ’19, Caylee Cunningham ’19, Jodi Livesay ’19, Taylor Myers ’19, Mallory Crane Dingle ’19, Rephael Berkooz ’21, Liam Dingle ’19, Dominic Muccio ’19, Nicholas Huang ’19. David Mahood ’84, Jacob Schwartz ’19, Noah Crane ’21, Gabe Gerry ’19, Jennifer Wilkie Reynolds ’86, Jessica Tarbox Kelly, Weston Gray ’19, Karin Connolly Wiest ’86, Jack Rider ’19, Gretchen Marks Crane ’86, Austin Russell ’19

Merry Christmas on the 8th Day of Christmas! It is also the first day of 2025—Happy New Year!

We are still alive! We are living in independent living at the Highlands in Pittsford. We are working with a private aide and a caregiving agency to help with caring for Jeanne so we can continue to live here. The children check in regularly, Jennifer is here from Oregon on her 6th trip here this year. Harry is kept busy caring for Jeanne and directing caregivers. He enjoys water fitness a couple of days per week and we both enjoy lectures and concerts presented in the facility. Harry decided to give up driving in November 2023. He NEVER had any tickets or accidents!

The big family news this year is the parking lot birth of Carley and Tom’s third child, Marianna. They brought the new baby and the rest of the family to Pittsford to meet everyone for an early Thanksgiving celebration. Carley was able to bring the children (Eden, Alexandria Jeanne and Marianna) to Pittsford again (with Melissa’s help) for a Christmas gathering on December 27. Jennifer, Steve and Deb, and Melissa were all here, too.

We had two additional family gatherings this year. Jeanne’s brother Jim and wife, Elaine, visited, along with niece, Diane. All the kids, (Jennifer, Steve and Deb, and Melissa), and grandkids (Emilia, Rachael and Carley) were here, along with spouses and most of the great-grandkids. Emilia’s oldest two, Aiden and Audrey, arrived a day or two later to visit with their great-grandparents. Emilia then took her kids on a road trip to visit colleges as Aiden prepares for next year. He settled on beginning studies at the University of North Dakota next Fall, planning to be a pilot.

He tests for his individual pilot’s license on January 4th, weather permitting. Audrey and Aurora (Emilia’s youngest) are busy with music and theatre rehearsals and performances.

Jennifer, Steve and Debbie are all retired now. They spend a lot of time checking in on us, organizing and coordinating with health care providers. Melissa also visits frequently. She continues her work as a manager for Nurse-Family Partnership. She enjoys frequent visits with her 4 grandchildren, ages 2 months–6 years old.

We are grateful to celebrate another Holiday season and wish you and yours a very Happy New Year.

Harry and Jeanne Carley

William Tadd Hendrickson, fondly known as Bill and Gramps, passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 95. Born in Rittman, Ohio, to Kathryn and Ted Hendrickson, the latter a Presbyterian minister. Bill graduated from The College of Wooster where his mother worked as a dorm mother. Upon graduation, Bill served in the United States Army. During the Korean War, he was stationed in Augsburg, Germany, where he worked in intelligence.

After his military service, Bill married his college sweetheart, Jane Leber, raising their children in Ridgewood, NJ. They remained married until her death in 1986. In 1987, Bill remarried Sally Feather, a fellow Wooster alumnus.

In 1953, Bill began a long career managing and advising businesses on their employee benefits needs. He worked for Connecticut General, US Life Insurance, and Marsh McLennan. In 1980, he founded Hendrickson and Company, which he later sold to his son Doug who parlayed it into MidCap Advisors. He was a longtime member of the National Association of Health Underwriters and earned a nationwide Legislative Award from them. In his retirement, Bill and Sally moved to Durham, NC, where he received a Public Service Award as chair of the Orange County, NC Human Relations Commission.

For the past 20 years, Bill hosted “Time Out,” a weekly one-hour radio show on WCOM, a community station in Carrboro, NC. He interviewed former ambassadors, public officials, professors, and people from various industries. He enjoyed researching each week’s topic and was always able to ask interesting and relevant questions. His heart was for the younger generation, and he loved interviewing his grandchildren and other young people from his church.

Bill was a “people person.” He loved getting to know others and encouraging them in their life’s work. He was loved by all who knew him.

He is survived by Sally and his blended family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Bill’s surviving family with Jane are daughter Debbie Gulino and her son William Gulino; Doug Hendrickson and wife Pamela Brecker, their daughter Janie, and son Will, his wife Shannon, and their young son Archie; Felix Hendrickson and wife Lisa Hendrickson. Surviving family with Sally are Laura Feather and husband Steve Bruno; Laura’s son Shade Feather, and his son Solan; and Laura’s daughter Lindsey Remy, husband Jason Remy, and children Amelia and Matias; Keith Feather and his son Ian Feather.

Bill was an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Durham. His memorial service will be held there at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, which would have been his 96th birthday. A reception will follow. He will be buried in Lawrenceville, NJ.

Reverend William Jeffrey King, 78, of Tiffin passed away at Autumnwood Care Facility on January 21, 2025.

He was born May 18, 1946 at Fort Hayes Army Hospital in Columbus, Ohio to the late Clair Roller and Doris Marjorie (née Hum) King of Lakewood, Ohio. He was a graduate of Lakewood High School, and the College of Wooster, where he met and wed the love of his life, Susan Towles, of Baltimore, MD in 1969. After college, the newlyweds moved to Connecticut where Jeff received his professional degree of Divinity from The Hartford Seminary Foundation. He was ordained at the Lakewood Congregational Church in 1971 as minister of the United Church of Christ.

Jeff began his ministry at the Mohican Indian Church in Uncasville, Connecticut. He was particularly proud of this post with its unique history and congregation. He returned to Ohio to serve St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Port Washington, Ohio. He often would talk and write about all of his experiences with the people of the congregations he served.

Throughout his career, Jeff served several other United Church of Christ congregations in eastern and northwest Ohio including First Congregational Church, Wellington, Ohio, Bloomville United Church of Christ, Bloomville, Ohio, and most recently Republic United Church of Christ, Republic, Ohio.

He retired from active ministry in 2011 and celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination with the United Church of Christ in 2021. Jeff served on various community boards including the Seneca County United Way and NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). In the summers, he especially enjoyed the Seneca County Fair and providing his interfaith church services to fairgoers. He was a proud Eagle Scout and Freemason. He always had a passion for teaching and he enthusiastically accepted an offer to teach religion for a semester at Heidelberg University.

Jeff had a wonderful and quirky sense of humor, loved to draw sketches and cartoons and wrote many heartfelt commentaries on religion, philosophy, and current events. Jeff was a lifelong fan of the Cleveland “Indians” Guardians, Cleveland Browns and the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Jeff is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Susan, and three children: Abigail King (Jason Louttit) of Dayton, Sarah King (Jered Johnston) of Republic and Adam King of Tiffin. He had five wonderful granddaughters: Gwendolyn Grace, Madelyn Rose, Roslyn Claire Johnston and Miriam Elise and Veronica Eloise Louttit. He is also survived by two sisters and five nephews, Beth Anne Darkow (Harold) of Green and her sons Benjamin(Amy) and Daniel(Erica) Darkow and Jennifer Sue Webb (late Gary) of Middletown and her sons Alex(Jenny), Jonathan(Sarah), and Zachary Webb.

Calling hours will be Tuesday, January 28, 2025 from 2pm to 6pm at the Lindsey-Shook Funeral Home in Bloomville. Jeff’s funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., at the Republic United Church of Christ. There will be a graveside committal for family at Firestone Cemetery in Columbiana, Ohio on Thursday, January 30, 2025.

Memorials may be made in Jeff’s name to Garlo Park in Bloomville, Ohio.

The start of programming at the Irwin A. and Robert D. Goodman Nonprofit Center is getting closer with the announcement that Andy Davey, former Director of Research & Advocacy at Madison Community Foundation, has been selected as the Center’s new Director. Davey was chosen as the inaugural Director after an extensive search process.

“A committee of board and staff members interviewed many outstanding candidates for the position,” said Bob Sorge, MCF President & CEO, “Throughout the interview process, Andy’s knowledge of the local nonprofit landscape, his experience as part of the MCF Community Impact team, and his extensive research that precipitated the development of the Center, all made for a compelling and successful candidacy.”

The Goodman Nonprofit Center will address a critical gap in professional resources for local nonprofit organizations. In the absence of a statewide nonprofit association, area organizations are left to piece together resources for professional development on their own. This adds to the challenges they face to advance their missions and realize their full potential.

The need for a nonprofit center in Greater Madison is well established. A joint study conducted by Davey and UW-Madison Extension Dane County’s Sharon Lezberg, which engaged 80 nonprofits and was published in late 2021, concluded that the need for more in-depth capacity-building resources was a primary issue facing the local nonprofit field.

“The message from nonprofit leaders was clear,” said Davey. “They want to learn from and with their colleagues in deeper ways and want to build peer networks that can support them through the often-intense ups and downs of the work. It was also clear that what was needed was a more centralized hub that could be a dependable source of information, professional development and collaboration across organizations.

Robert A. Chesnut was born August 3, 1937 in Elk City, OK, the son of Atwood W. and Lilian Phipps Chesnut. He died at home in Glen Allen, VA on December 25, 2024. Attending the college of Wooster, Wooster, OH graduating with honors in the study of religion in 1959. At Wooster he met Janet Rippey and they were married June 13,1959. Chesnut entered Harvard Divinity School graduating with honors in 1962. In August he was ordained to the ministry and installed as Pastor of Calvin Presbyterian Church, in Amelia, OH. In 1974 Bob was awarded a Ph.D at Harvard University in Religious Studies.

Over the years Bob served as Pastor at multiple churches and taught at various seminaries. East Liberty church in Pittsburgh, PA, a highly diverse, urban congregation in his last ministry inspired Chesnut’s first book Transforming the Mainline Church: Lessons in Change from Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Hope.

Always a community activist, in Santa Fe, NM where the Chesnuts retired in 2002, Dr. Chesnut continued to serve on various national boards including the Covenant Network of Presbyterians (advocating for full inclusion of LGBTQs in the church).

Bob and Jan relocated in 2014 to the Richmond, VA area becoming active at the Gayton KirkPresbyterian Church. Bob had continued his teaching, writing, gardening, and occasional preaching. In 2017 he published Meeting Jesus the Christ Again: A Conservative Progressive Faith.

Dr. Chesnut is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Janet, son, Andrew (Fabiola) Chesnut, daughter, Elizabeth (Paul) Kennedy, and grandchildren, Vanessa and Nicholas Chesnut, and David and Eric Martinez. He will be remembered as a passionate advocate for social justice. A loving, faithful, companionship marriage of sixty-five years was the joy and mainstay of his life. A memorial service will be held at 5:00pm on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Gayton Kirk Presbyterian Church,11421 Gayton Road, Henrico, VA 23238.

Rev. Dr. James W Bidle, of Crystal Lake, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away at age 97 on Jan 2, 2025.
He was born on Nov 13, 1927 to Charles and Helen Bidle in the tiny town of Apple Creek, OH. He sold candy and ice cream in his Dad’s general store in the 30s, and enlisted in the Army at 17. After WWII, he graduated from College of Wooster and the Oberlin Graduate School of Theology, and received an honorary doctorate from the Chicago Theological Seminary in 1977. Jim was ordained and ministered over 50 years at the First Congregational Church of Vermilion, OH, the First Community Church of Columbus, OH, the First Congregational Church of Muskegon, MI, and the First Congregational Church of Crystal Lake, IL. He attended Oxford University on numerous sabbatical trips. He oversaw significant church membership growth through his vision of helping parishioners achieve personal and spiritual growth. He was instrumental in the development of the First Community Village retirement community in Columbus, and acquired the Dole mansion in Crystal Lake as the Lakeside retreat center and child care facility. Jim also started Branches, a very successful singles group in Crystal Lake.
Jim married Patricia Lockwood in 1952, and their union produced five children – Paula Bidle (George), Chris Bidle (Lynda), Holly Bidle, Betsy Campbell, Laurie Cordak (Brian), 9 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He married Jo Thorsen in 1989, and added four stepchildren to the family – Kim (Doug) Viafora, Matt Thorsen, Lisa (Mark) Wagy, and Ellen (Mark) Mottola and an additional 6 grandchildren. After retirement, Jim and Jo created a travel tour company, and lead 17 tour groups all over the world. He was a true Anglophile, and had a deep respect and love of all things British.
Jim’s passions were varied, and included writing poetry, enjoying the humor of Monty Python & WC Fields, being a Lincoln scholar, Canadian fishing trips, traveling, and enjoying the company of his numerous friends and extended family. Jim embodied lifelong learning, and gave monthly talks at the retirement facility based on his historical research. Beyond his ministry, Jim relished telling stories, reciting poems remembered from his youth, dice and card games with his family, and the thrill of growing his portfolio in the stock market. He loved sharing his business acumen, and hosted financial seminars with his children.
James Wade Bidle leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service, and will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know him. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held Friday, Jan 17, at 11:00 at First Congregational Church in Crystal Lake, with refreshments following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the First Congregational Church of Crystal Lake in Jim’s name.

Ken died suddenly on October 17 2024. He was born in Pontiac, Michigan on March 2, 1941, to Stan and Mary (Kepler) Hoffman, both Wooster Class of 1934. When he was four the family moved to Canton, China, where his parents worked as medical missionaries until their emergency evacuation in 1948 ahead of the Communist victory in the civil war. The family then moved to Tuba City, Arizona, on  the Navajo Reservation, where Ken developed an abiding love of the desert and a lifelong passion for learning to identify plants and knowing their scientific names. He came to Wooster from Wasatch Academy in Utah (there was no high school on the Reservation at that time); at Wooster he received bachelor’s degrees in math and physics, sang in the Glee Club, the Men of McLeod, the Chapel Choir, the Concert Choir, and the A Capella Singers, and met his future wife Jan (Snover), also class of 1961. He went on to graduate studies in mathematics at Harvard, then taught math at Talladega College in Alabama, where he and others founded an integrated kindergarten so that their children would not have to attend a segregated institution. He and his family moved to Amherst, Massachusetts in 1970; he was a founding member of the faculty at Hampshire College and taught there for 43 years, retiring in 2014. He also pursued his love of trees, planting and documenting over 200 of them on his property. Jan died just a week before Ken.