Published February 12, 2022
Wittenberg Alumni & Friends,
I chose to pursue a career in higher education because it is gift to see students discover their passion and purpose. I have also always found the sense of community at institutions like Wittenberg to be rewarding – something I was reminded of recently during a special event we hosted called Community Day.
For three hours, our community joined in conversation as we brainstormed around Wittenberg’s future. The sessions were lively, engaging, insightful, and fun. I was particularly struck by the thoughtfulness as participants connected with each other in meaningful ways. It was just nice to have 170+ faculty and staff in the same place for the first time in a long time. The event served as a first step in a broader student success planning process we have begun, and I am excited to share more with you as we proceed.
I am also proud of the progress we have made in our $100-million Having Light Campaign. Because of your generosity and ongoing support, we have now surpassed $92 million. This is an incredible accomplishment, and while I know we have more to go, I would be remiss in not saying thanks to all of you who have given. For those who have not had a chance, I hope you will consider supporting the campaign. I also want to remind you about our upcoming Commit to Witt on March 10-11, which you can read more about below.
Wittenberg is defined by its people, place, and present, and I look forward to seeing how our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends continue to come together in community in the months and years ahead.
Best Regards,
Mike Frandsen
University President
Black History Month
Throughout the month of February and thanks to the efforts of the University’s William A. McClain Center for Diversity, Concerned Black Students (CBS), the Office of Student Involvement, the Tiger Counseling Center, and Wittenberg’s Diversity Advisory Committee (DAC), Wittenberg will host numerous events and activities as part of its Black History Month programming series.
Special Streaming & Live Q&A
All alumni and friends are invited to virtually attend a “Mothers of the Revolution” Q&A with Professor Emerita of Geography Olga Medvedkov on Tuesday, March 15.
The documentary film tells the story of one of the most significant peace movements in the second half of the 20th Century of which Medvedkov was one of the key leaders. She is featured prominently in the film, and Gerry Hudson, professor emeritus of political science, will introduce Medvedkov at the event.
Please RSVP today to receive information about how to virtually attend the live Q&A on March 15.
Commit to Witt Countdown
Join the entire Wittenberg community for 1845 Minutes of Giving during Commit to Witt on March 10-11! Show your commitment to a better, stronger Wittenberg by offering a challenge gift or participating in the annual University-wide celebration of Tigers worldwide.
Here are ways to engage during our #Commit2Witt Celebration:
- Sign up to serve as a #Commit2Witt Ambassador by February 21 to receive your Ambassador Swag Pack.
- Tune in online and multiply your impact by donating to the challenge fund of your choice.
- RSVP today, and plan to attend a regional chapter event.
By working together, we can support the people, the place, and the present of Wittenberg for generations to come. We can't do it without you. Thank you for sharing your Tiger pride!
Witt in Washington
Five Wittenberg students gained valuable experience this past semester by participating in the Lutheran College Washington Semester (LCWS) program in Washington, D.C., marking the 30th anniversary of the University’s partnership with LCWS. In addition to two classes, the program offers internships, community service opportunities, and weekly field trips.
Athletics Hall of Honor Class of 2021
Stephanie Boardman ’10, Bill Brown ’73, Ron Cunningham ’96, Abi Gerstle ’03, Tristan Murray ’07, Chris Postler ’94, and Denny Yontz ’71 will be inducted this fall into Wittenberg’s Athletics Hall of Honor. In addition, Tim Kremchek '81 becomes the seventh recipient of the Athletics Hall of Honor Lifetime Achievement Award, and for the first time ever, the committee opened hall membership to “Teams of Distinction,” starting with 1961 men’s basketball, 1962 football, and 1963 men’s basketball.
The Campaign for Wittenberg University
Inspired by our motto, “Having Light We Pass It On To Others,” the Campaign for Wittenberg University is the most ambitious effort of its kind in our history. When we pass our light on to others, Wittenberg shines.
Every gift counts this year! The Wittenberg light has shone brightly since 1845. With your support, it will shine for good. Give Today!
Alumni Achievement Awards
The deadline has been extended through February 16, so there is still time to nominate deserving alumni for the annual Alumni Achievement Awards. Wittenberg alumni are making an impact in everything they do, both in their careers and their communities. The Alumni Association recognizes and celebrates our outstanding alumni at an annual awards ceremony during Homecoming. There are no restrictions on the number of nominations a person may submit, and people submitting nominations do not need to be graduates of Wittenberg University.
Going Full Circle
Former Tiger running back Maso Moon ’80 was recently reunited with his long-lost 1976 OAC Championship Ring thanks to some perfect timing and the efforts of Wittenberg staff members.
Postcard Project
Last chance to register for the annual Alumni Postcard Project for the Class of 2026. Sign up to send a postcard to 10 applicants telling them your Wittenberg story and what makes the University special. Register here to participate. Alumni postcard packets will be mailed this month, and we ask that you write and mail your 10 postcards by March 1.
#LifeAfterWitt
For Jamie Bailey Oliver ’82, the people she met at Wittenberg provided a strong support network when she needed it most.
Leading Nationwide’s sports marketing efforts, Jim McCoy ’98 will represent the company at the 2022 Super Bowl in Los Angeles.
As president and CEO of Mazda North America, Jeff Guyton ’88 turned his love of cars and interest in East Asia into a career.