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President Thomas J. Kerr

Otterbein University is mourning the passing of President Emeritus Thomas J. Kerr IV on Aug. 6, 2021.

Kerr joined the faculty in 1963 and served as president from 1971 to 1984.

“Tom was dedicated to service and lived that out at Otterbein. Everyone who knew him was better for it, including me. I am proud to have called him a friend and to continue his work of caring for Otterbein and our students,” said President John Comerford.

Kerr was born Oct. 8, 1933, in Columbus, Ohio. He received a bachelor’s degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University in 1956, a master’s degree in history from the University of Buffalo in 1959, and a doctorate degree in social science from Syracuse University in 1965.

He came to Otterbein as an assistant professor of history. As a faculty member, he was active on campus committees and served as acting academic dean for seven months from 1969 to 1970.

Kerr was selected from a pool of 117 candidates to become the 18th president of Otterbein in 1971, when he was only 37 years old. In his inauguration program, it was noted that although he was “young in years,” he already had “a wide range of experience as a scholar, teacher and college administrator.”

As a president, Kerr was known as a builder of ideas, implementing innovative programs that established Otterbein as a leader in higher education—programs that other universities would later implement.

When he accepted the position in 1971, Kerr laid out his plans for his future presidency in a statement, which partially reads: “Private colleges face financial problems stemming from rising costs and increased competition for students. Progress cannot come primarily through growth but must come through reassessment of our present programs. We must also conceive imaginative new programs responsive to the needs of both our rapidly changing society and our students who become its future leaders. We must develop a flexible curriculum combining study and action.”

In response to his insights about the future of higher education, Kerr launched the University’s nationally acclaimed Integrative Studies curriculum, which remains a model curriculum in higher education today, as well as the continuing education program for adult learners. He also launched Otterbein’s signature programs in nursing and equine science. He created new partnerships for Otterbein, many of which remain strong today.

In a 2014 interview, Kerr said, “The sense of total community and its educational impact, both the curricular and the co-curricular programs, create a unique and really outstanding environment. That community goes out in rings to the metropolitan area, into the larger country and the world.”

Viewing students as future leaders, Kerr valued the role of students in governing the University. As a faculty member, he was involved with the reorganization of the University’s governance system. During his presidency, Otterbein became the first university in the nation to have students and faculty seated as permanent, voting members of its board of trustees.

“The most important thing you could do in your decision-making process came in the recruiting of faculty and staff members and making sure that they would continue the traditions of the community and decision making in the community, which was a very open governance system…involving students. It was a learning experience at all levels and a unique system when it was implemented in the late ’60s, and has continued its tradition today,” Kerr said in 2014.

Kerr also led changes to facilities, often with a focus on strengthening the arts at Otterbein. In 1972, he dedicated the new library, which was named the Courtright Memorial Library seven years later and houses the Becker Gallery for art on the lower level. When the Rike Center was built in 1975 to address changing needs for Otterbein’s athletics program, the shift allowed the Alumni Gymnasium to be renovated into a hub for arts on campus. The gymnasium was reborn as the Battelle Fine Arts Center in 1979. Another advancement in the arts was the addition of the scene shop to Cowan Hall in 1982, which provided space to build more elaborate sets for Otterbein’s theatre productions.

During Kerr’s presidency, the endowment rose from $2.9 to $6.9 million. After his retirement from higher education at the age of 50, he continued to raise money to fund higher education initiatives. He later served as president of the Grant Medical Center Development Foundation in Columbus, Ohio.

An editorial in The Columbus Dispatch at the time of Kerr’s resignation announcement stated, “Thomas J. Kerr IV, president of Otterbein College, will end his 13-year tenure in June on a high note. At a time when many small private colleges are in serious trouble, Kerr leaves the Westerville institution with an increased enrollment, substantially greater endowment support, new buildings completed and a number of new programs in place geared to changing educational needs.”

Kerr remained involved with Otterbein after his retirement, attending events and even researching and speaking about Otterbein’s history to alumni audiences and the Westerville Historical Society. The Presidents Gallery exhibit on the second floor of Towers Hall displays his research on the other presidents, as well as Kerr’s own achievements as the 18th president.

In a 2014 interview, he stated, “(Otterbein) is a university of opportunity and it has provided countless opportunities for students—sometimes second chances—and the strength of the sense of community is so exceptional that it distinguishes it from many other schools.”

He added, “I’m certainly proud that I had the opportunity to serve (at) a university that has so many successful graduates and so many successful stories of their experiences when they were students here.”

President Emeritus Kathy Krendl recognized her predecessor’s impact on the university. “President Kerr’s legacy lives on in the essential and distinctive character of an Otterbein education and its commitment to being accessible to a diverse population of students. His vision for the institution continues to serve as an important touchstone.”

Bob Gatti, vice president emeritus for student affairs, said, “Tom Kerr was a gentle, thoughtful, kind person who, along with his wife, Donna, loved Otterbein.”

He is survived by his wife, Donna Kerr; children, Thomas Kerr V, Cheryl Kerr Coleman, and Kathleen Kerr Hansen; and eight grandchildren.

See More Photos of
President Thomas J. Kerr →

Passing the Light of Learning

Retiring faculty leave behind a legacy for new faculty to continue

As students and alumni know well, Otterbein faculty members do more than lecture behind a podium. Faculty devote their lives to guiding their students through mentorship, research, networking, and other support that often extends beyond graduation. The work of Otterbein’s faculty members leaves a timeless impression on students and often shapes the direction of their careers and lives.

At the end of the 2021 academic year, seven highly respected and long-serving faculty members retired. Between them, they committed a combined 201 years of service crafting Otterbein students to go into the world and make a difference.

These retirees are passing the light of learning onto newer faculty members, ensuring the Otterbein experience they helped to build will continue for generations to come.

Also retiring but not profiled is Professor Lou Rose, who joined the faculty of the Department of History and Political Science in 1991. Rose continues to serve as the executive director of the Sigmund Freud Archives, a role he has held since 2015.

Send these retiring professors a message about how they impacted your time at Otterbein. Post on social media using #OtterbeinTowers.

Each week during Otterbein’s TuesdayTakeover, students talk about who their favorite professor is and why. Check it out every Tuesday on the university Instagram.

36 Years

Barbara Schaffner

Associate Provost, Graduate School, Professor, Department of Nursing

Among the group of retirees, the longest-serving faculty member is Barbara Schaffner. She began her career at Otterbein in 1985 and, for the past 36 years, has worked in the Department of Nursing and The Graduate School, helping countless students leave Otterbein ready to serve others.

As a pediatric nurse and nurse practitioner, Schaffner’s favorite courses were the clinical related courses that taught child health at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Additionally, Schaffner has advised and advocated for young faculty through the years. She has the following words of wisdom for new faculty:

“My advice would be to maximize your reach as faculty through the department into campus-wide activities, so you understand and participate in the full campus experience. Use all the expert educators on campus for ideas, mentoring, and to provide you with constructive feedback on teaching and working with students.”

35 Years

John Kengla

Senior Instructor, Leadership Studies Program

John Kengla has been instrumental in deepening Otterbein’s involvement with Columbus City Schools (CCS) over the years.

“In 1989, along with members of Otterbein’s Education Department, I established the Linmoor-Otterbein Scholars Program, which engaged students attending Columbus City Schools’ Linmoor Middle School in summer programs emphasizing learning and attending college,” he said.

He also established the Ubuntu Mentoring Program (2006-2016), which brought CCS students to campus for mentoring sessions and dinner with college students. “By centering our program on group mentoring, the Ubuntu Mentoring Program was able, over the 10-year period, to serve students attending six CCS middle schools and two CCS high schools.”

When reflecting on the footprint he left at Otterbein, Kengla wants to be remembered for his teaching of First Year Seminar, Senior Year Experience, and Integrative Studies courses, along with helping Columbus City Schools students learn about future opportunities and college.

29 Years

Glenna Jackson

Professor, Department of Religion and Philosophy

Glenna Jackson wants her legacy to encompass inclusivity and scholarship. “Otterbein and I have been a great match. It has strengthened me, and I hope I did the same.”

Her favorite memory is seeing her students make connections — especially during her time in Africa watching her students’ minds at work through educational trips.

Her advice for new faculty is: “The most important thing is to be excited and passionate about teaching and your particular discipline. There is a ripple effect from enthusiasm from a leader onto whomever is being led, particularly in a classroom. Excitement is contagious.”

29 Years

Denise Shively

Senior Instructor, Department of Communication

During her Otterbein career, Denise Shively has been deeply committed to experiential learning. She has taken students on trips to serve across Ohio, the United States, and even Africa to expand their education while enriching the lives of others.

“Some of my favorite times have been with First Year Seminar students in New Orleans when we worked on painting houses following Hurricane Katrina; working with colleague John Kengla and Senior Year Experience students serving breakfast at So Others Might Eat in Washington, D.C.; and helping build a classroom block at a school in Nkhoma Village in Malawi with Integrative Studies students and Glenna Jackson.”

She has left a tremendous mark on campus and outside of the classroom, she has impacted the entire Otterbein community with her caring spirit. “I would love for students, colleagues and alumni to remember how I care deeply about them as individuals and Otterbein as an institution.”

21 Years

Regina Kengla

Senior Instructor, Coordinator of  Writing Services and Supplemental Instruction, Academic Support Center

Regina Kengla has played an invaluable role providing extra-curricular academic support to students to help them succeed in their classes and teaching Integrative Studies courses and courses related to her work in the Academic Support Center.

“I love teaching Integrative Studies, Argumentative Writing — all the courses I’ve taught. Groups in my Integrative Studies class designed service-learning projects, and it was exciting to see them bond, create their projects, and develop their understanding of and commitment to the public good,” Kengla said.

She sees the Otterbein community come together when her past students connect with current students. “I have so many good memories of my students, and several have come back to meet with my current students, like Valentina Dixon ’13, who has worked tirelessly to tell of her father’s wrongful incarceration; Bertha Jaramillo-Alfaro ’19, currently a paralegal focusing on immigration, constitutional, family, and civil rights; and Tony Bishop ’15, whose work in politics led to him becoming the executive director of the Ohio Black Caucus.”

17 Years

Terry Hermsen

Professor, Department of English

Terry Hermsen taught poetry, com-position, and literature at Otterbein, and was named Ohio’s co-Poet of the Year for 2009 for his book, The River’s Daughter.

He often incorporated his passion for sustainability into his work on- and off-campus, and hopes his legacy at Otterbein will reflect that.

“I hope that I will be remembered for my efforts to encourage genuine climate change action on our campus and in our region.”

Hermsen’s words of wisdom for new faculty are: “Dream big … and seek connections with faculty in other departments. My favorite part of teaching at Otterbein was the willingness of colleagues — and students! — in other departments to collaborate on interdisciplinary projects.”

New Faces, Same Commitment

As beloved faculty members retire, new members are making their mark. In their relatively short time on campus, these professors have made a big impact.

2018

Aida Odobasic, assistant professor in the Department of Business, Accounting, and Economics, was named the 2021 New Teacher of the Year at Otterbein. She describes her teaching philosophy as being centered on creating an atmosphere in which students feel empowered, engaged, and ready to take ownership of deep and meaningful learning.

“I enjoy Otterbein’s close-knit community where I was able to feel at home relatively quickly after I joined in 2018. Also, I enjoy working on projects, events, and in committees with colleagues across different departments and disciplines,” she said.

Odobasic loves to teach Principles of Microeconomics and challenges her students to develop critical thinking by asking thought-provoking economics questions.

“It is exciting since it is typically the first time students are exposed to the field of economics and some find it fascinating and decide to take more economics classes. I love those moments.”

2019

In only two years, Alexander Rocklin, assistant professor in the Department of Religion and Philosophy, has developed a new major for students, opening more opportunities within his department.

“At Otterbein, I have had the opportunity to create an exciting new interdisciplinary major, philosophy and religion. In our major, we ask big questions and develop skills in conversing across differences of worldview and life experience — giving students a deeper understanding of the views of peoples around the world and helping them develop their own answers along the way.”

Madelyn Nelson ’23 is a public relations major from Coshocton, OH. She is involved with the Student Alumni Board, Host and Tour Program, and Sigma Alpha Tau. She is an intern in Otterbein’s Office of Marketing and Communications.

STEM Students Set Up for Success

An Otterbein faculty member once described the energy and educational experience in the University’s STEM programs as a “sleeping giant ready to be awakened.” Today, that giant is not only awake, but also catching the attention of state and federal agencies.

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Diet Coke and Mentos Experiment Video

STEM Internship Audio

In the past year, Otterbein has received major grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program, NSF S-STEM Program, Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program, and Howard Hughes Medical Institution. These grants mean far more than just dollars, and recognize Otterbein’s academically strong STEM programs, as well as the University’s purposeful work to diversify STEM fields.

From preparing education majors to teach STEM subjects in under-served schools to creating more opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to major in STEM areas of study, Otterbein is strengthening STEM professions as a whole with the support of these grants.

“Otterbein STEM includes a dynamic, dedicated community of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians that provide a rigorous, hands-on curriculum for students interested in a wide variety of fields,” said Sarah Bouchard, professor of biology and earth science.

Otterbein has a long history of experiential learning. Educational techniques incorporating hands-on learning and real-world applications can be found in most disciplines across campus. STEM education at Otterbein is taking experiential learning to a whole new level and STEM professors are leading the charge.

“You’ll typically find our STEM students conducting research in the lab or field, presenting at scientific conferences, interning with one of our many university partners, or shadowing medical professionals in local hospitals and clinics,” said Bouchard. “These opportunities, coupled with our challenging coursework, mean that students graduate with the skills and experience needed for whatever comes next.”

STEM education at Otterbein connects teamwork, analytical thinking, and 21st century jobs, equipping Otterbein graduates with valuable skills to become future leaders and innovators. The grants open these opportunities to students who may not otherwise pursue these careers.

“Otterbein should be on the radar as a STEM school,” said Mike Hudoba, assistant professor of engineering. Hudoba is the team lead on the Choose Ohio First grant.

Associate Professor of Chemistry Brigitte Ramos agrees. She is the team lead for one of the two NSF grants, which supports recruitment and retention of students from under-represented populations in STEM fields through Otterbein’s Cardinal Science Scholars (CSS) program.

“The program is much more than the scholarship money,” she said of the CSS. “We offer programmatic support.”

The programmatic support Ramos cites provides opportunities outside of the classroom that will prepare students to enter the workforce. The program includes a seminar course where students will gain interview, communication, and relationship building skills, as well as professional development.

Equipping Otterbein

graduates with

valuable skills

to

become

future leaders

and

innovators

“The seminar is one tool,” Ramos said, “but we will also be setting up what we call a mentorship triad, where our students will be linked with an upper-level student in their program as well as a professional.”

Students will also be placed in an internship or a research experience after completing their first year in order to get a leg up in their field of study.

Some goals of the Otterbein STEM programs include building a community of STEM students, creating diversity in the STEM fields, and building connections with alumni, faculty, and industry professionals.

Kayne Kirby ’02 graduated with a mathematics degree and now works as Grange Insurance’s director of personal lines pricing.

“Reflecting back on the importance of my Otterbein experience, I had some influential people who were able to help shape me,” Kirby said. “They put me in touch with alumni that could help me make that transition from Otterbein into my career.”

Hugh Allen ’62, pediatric cardiology professor at Baylor Texas Children’s Hospital, sees a powerful combination in Otterbein’s liberal arts tradition and STEM education.

“Otterbein allowed me to become a well-rounded individual and educator,” Allen said. “A liberal arts education while studying science is better than just a science education.”

Engineering graduate Abby Zerkle ’21, said “I think the Engineering Department is really something special. Yes, I gained important knowledge in the classroom, but I also learned how to become a confident, thoughtful, and ethical engineer. If it weren’t for Otterbein and the experiences I had there I wouldn’t be where I am right now. I am thankful for my time at Otterbein.”

For more information about Otterbein’s STEM offerings visit Choose Ohio First STEM Scholarship.

Scholarships:

Follow @OtterbeinSTEM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see all the latest updates and awesome work from our students and faculty!

Grace Weidenhamer ’23 is a health communication and public relations major from Westerville, Ohio. She plays on the Otterbein women’s soccer team and is on the executive board of Otterbein’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA).

Stay With Us: On Inclusion

“Two or three things I know for sure, and one of them is how long it takes to learn to love yourself … ”
— Dorothy Allison

Did you know Otterbein publishes a bi-annual Equity and Inclusion Matters campus newsletter? Read all back issues in the Digital Commons @ Otterbein →

Early this summer, I was at a stoplight, distracted with thoughts about work and the grocery list. I missed the light change. The driver behind me laid on the horn. I hit the gas and waved, “I’m sorry.” But my delay ignited fury. The car stayed dangerously close to my rear bumper. The horn blared. I could see the driver shouting at me through the windshield. Another red light. The car pulled up next to me. The driver rolled down the window and raged. I gripped the steering wheel and waited it out. When the car finally sped away, confusion and fear twisted my stomach. We can be so wounded by a stranger’s cruelties.

It’s worse, of course, when it’s someone we know. Someone we love. It’s worse when it’s a friend, a co-worker, a teacher, a teammate. It’s worse when the people we call home deny our humanity. We can be so wounded by rejection, disrespect, and discrimination.

After I came out, my sister didn’t speak to me for almost a year. My parents tried to be accepting and supportive, but I felt the discomfort and judgements they circled. And I needed to say I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner, to explain that I was afraid of unbearable losses and stayed quiet.

But we got through it. With love, patience, and empathy. We are closer now, our connections more honest and authentic. We didn’t let go. We stayed. Even when it got hard.

You are safe here, you belong here. This community wants you to find understanding, acceptance, your people, and your self here. You are home.

Inclusion is important because in its absence there is exclusion. Disconnection. Unbelonging. Inclusion is important because in its absence there is pain. But we heal in and through relationships. I remember the first time I felt completely safe with another human being. I remember the first time I felt completely known and completely loved. I remember finding place and purpose at Otterbein. From that openness, I learned to love myself.

Inclusion creates relationships of healing. I try to teach – and live – from that truth. Otterbein’s commitment to inclusion is a promise we make to each other. With it, we say, “You are safe here, you belong here. This community wants you to find understanding, acceptance, your people, and your self here. You are home.”

Professor Ashworth was recently named the 2021 Ohio LGBTQ+ Leadership Award recipient from the Ohio Diversity Council. Read more about her award in our website profile story →

Still, how do we do that? How do we do inclusion? How do we make an inclusive world?

There are lots of different answers to those questions. Many focus on simple acts of caring: a sincere “how are you,” asking for someone’s perspective on an issue, reinforcing shared experiences.

For me, the “how” is also more fundamental than that. It goes deeper than that. It works through two interdependent capacities. An ability to stay and to stay with. “With” as in together, attentive to, and in respect to. Stay with a person, stay with a newness, stay with a difference. When we stay, we hold space for each other. We commit to being in a relationship across misapprehensions and difficulty. We know that there is always more to discover, more to learn. We trust that more understanding will come in time.

And true understanding happens only through grace, humility, and compassion.

Suzanne Ashworth, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of English and the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program. She recently was awarded the 2021 Ohio LGBTQ+ Leadership Award by the Ohio Diversity Council.

Come From Away Comes Back to Broadway

COME FROM AWAY

COMES BACK TO BROADWAY

Randy Adams ’76

Randy Adams ’76 is an accomplished Broadway producer with two Tony Award-winning productions under his belt, including Come From Away, an acclaimed musical that tells a story of hope during the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001.

Broadway closed its 41 playhouses in March 2020 amid the global pandemic and reopened on Sept. 21, 2021, when Come From Away returned to the stage 20 years to the month after the events that inspired it. Come From Away is now playing in Columbus through Feb. 13, at the Ohio Theatre. Tickets are available on CAPA.com.

To commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11, members of the cast performed a free concert staging of the musical at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., and a filmed version of the staged production that was released on Apple TV+, both on Sept. 10.

Theatre Live Return Audio

Towers spoke with Adams, who says he believes New York will come back better than ever and he hopes Broadway and the arts will be the crown jewel of the city.

Where were you when it was announced that Broadway was closing due to the pandemic?

I was in the air coming back to New York City from London when I received word that Broadway would be shut down for a minimum of four weeks. We had just replaced part of the cast for the second year of the London production and celebrated their opening night performance the prior evening. Within five days, all productions of Come From Away were shuttered around the world. Melbourne, Australia, was the first to return on Jan. 19, 2021.

Photo by Matthew Murphy, 2018

Photo by Matthew Murphy, 2018

How has the closure of Broadway during the pandemic impacted the theater industry?

In the blink of an eye, everyone was unemployed. All the people associated with a Broadway show — actors, musicians, crew, stage managers, ushers, maintenance people, theater cleaners, box office personnel, marketing teams, general management and company management teams, dry cleaners, playbill printers, and on and on — went from working non-stop hours to nothing. All touring across America stopped. The number of people who lost jobs overnight was staggering. Broadway is a driver of tourism as well, so hotels, restaurants, and stores were also devastated. It will take time to recover all of it, but hopefully we will.

Do you think Come From Away takes on new relevance today?

I am fortunate that Come From Away is about kindness and goodness and taking care of people when they needed it most. It is an uplifting and energizing story at any time.

I find now that it is even more relevant because of what we have all collectively experienced this past year, during which people did extraordinary things. The people of Newfoundland still don’t think they did anything special. They think, “We just took care of people when they needed help — isn’t that what we are all supposed to do?” Indeed, it is what we all hope we would do in the same situation, and I think many people experienced it this past year in many ways — big and small!

Photo by Matthew Murphy, 2018

How does the reopening of Broadway provide hope?

Theater people are the most resilient people in the world. The energy that will be in those theaters when they have their first performances will be the most amazing thing people have ever seen. The world is hungry for live performance and connection with people again. I think the reopening of Broadway safely is a giant boon to all arts and the city of New York. I most look forward to what new art, new shows were created during this pandemic or post-pandemic.

Hopefully, Broadway and the tours will come back stronger than ever. Hopefully, all people will return safely with new protocols to make sure people on stage, backstage, and front of house can do their jobs and be safe and healthy.

What message does Come From Away impart to its audience?

Come From Away is based on the true story of when the airspace over the United States was closed due to 9/11 and 37 planes holding around 7,000 people landed in Gander, Newfoundland, Canada, a town of about 8,000 people. They welcomed the passengers and took care of them for five days. During this challenging time, people found love, laughter, and new hope in the unlikely and lasting bonds they forged. Kindness and generosity of spirit are great gifts at any time but during times of need are the most important gifts.

Photo by Matthew Murphy, 2018

Visit Alumni Travel for more details and to make your reservation.

Travel to
the Big
Apple with
Otterbein

Are you ready to experience live theatre again? Do you support regional theatre? Would you like to experience Broadway through the eyes of an Otterbein alumnus? Join us on April 21-26, 2022, for a very special event.

Meet Come From Away producer Randy Adams ’76 in New York City and explore behind-the-scenes of the Music Theatre of Connecticut with co-founder Jim Schilling ’79.

Space is limited for this theatrical tour.

Homecoming & Family Weekend 2021

It was a beautiful weekend that gave alumni and families the chance to celebrate the friendship, memories, and pride that come with being a part of the Otterbein community. Weekend highlights included the Class of ’70 Golden Reunion, Class of ’56 Reunion, Celebration of Otterbein, President Comerford’s State of the University, Homecoming Parade, Cardy Zone, Otterfest and so much more!

Our Alumni Award winners impressed and inspired us with their achievements and loyalty to Otterbein. You can enjoy their acceptance speeches and look for more Cardinal Homecoming moments below.

2021 Homecoming Livestreams

Parade
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Celebration of Otterbein
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Football vs. John Carroll
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2021 Homecoming Photo Galleries

HOMECOMING PARADE
OTTERFEST
FOOTBALL GAME
CAMPUS CENTER &
KIDS ZONE
CANDIDS
ROYALTY
CLASS OF 1956 REUNION
CLASS OF 1970 REUNION
CELEBRATION BREAKFAST
JOANNE’S SCARVES
NORMAN CHANEY
MEMORIAL RECEPTION
TAU DELTA CENTENNIAL
PROCLAMATION

See More Otterbein Galleries →

KAPPA PHI OMEGA CENTENNIAL
PROCLAMATION

Thresher Leaves Legacy of Leadership

After serving 21 years as a member of the Otterbein University Board of Trustees, with eight of those as chair, Mark Thresher ’78 has retired. He leaves behind a legacy of impact for generations of students and employees to come.

“My wife, Debbie ’77, and I always had a focus on education. Being on the board of Otterbein provided us the opportunity to extend our interest to a different group of kids,” said Thresher. “Since myself, my wife, our daughter, and son-in-law are all alumni, it was the right place for us to give back.”

Thresher joined the board as a respected leader in the central Ohio business community. His connections and experience helped facilitate the development of The Point, which has transformed the University’s ability to recruit and retain students. This, in turn, helped give space and inspiration to a new Department of Engineering and provide robust on-campus experiential learning opportunities. These new additions to campus are some of his proudest accomplishments.

“Mark was always a champion for new ideas and possibilities,” said President Emerita Kathy Krendl. “He was consistently supportive of the work and innovations Otterbein wanted to accomplish. His expertise was a major factor in securing the future of the institution.”

In addition to The Point, Thresher was also on the steering committee for the Clements Recreation and Fitness Center and supported building and renovation projects for the Art and Communication Building, Shear-McFadden Science Center, Austin E. Knowlton Center for Equine Science, Memorial Stadium, new track and turf, and two residence halls.

Thresher has been a key part in aligning Otterbein’s academic offerings with evolving market demands through the introduction of new programs. During his tenure, the Doctor of Nursing Practice, Zoo and Conservation Science, and Engineering programs were all established, giving Otterbein students new avenues towards a successful post-graduation life and career.

See More Photos of Mark Thresher →

“Mark’s best talent is that it isn’t about him,” said President Emeritus Brent DeVore. “He is first and foremost on the side helping our campus community achieve the ultimate goal of student success. He puts his ego in his pocket and provides much needed guidance.”

Current Otterbein President John Comerford has felt fortunate to have Thresher as board chair. “Mark has a remarkable legacy at Otterbein. His time on the Board has been hugely impactful. Everyone has benefited from Mark’s passion for Otterbein and unique ability to lead boldly and collaboratively,” he said.

“My hope is that every graduate leaves Otterbein on the path to make a difference in the world,” Thresher said.

Thresher has no doubt that his successor to board chair, Cheryl Herbert, will continue to grow Otterbein along with the success of Cardinals of the future.

Otterbein University would like to welcome the newest members to the Board:

Rev. April Casperson ’03, director, diversity and inclusion, Connectional Ministries, United Methodist Church West Ohio Conference
Dr. Talisa Dixon, superintendent of Columbus City Schools
Greg Jordan, senior vice president and chief audit executive, Nationwide
Kathryn Stephens ’97, executive vice president, marketing and development, at The Buckeye Ranch (Alumni Council trustee)
Hannah Sturgeon ’23, student trustee
John Tansey, Ph.D., professor, Department of Chemistry (faculty trustee)

Otterbein would like to thank the following Board of Trustees members for their service. We are grateful for the leadership and commitment they shared with the University.

Rev. Larry Brown ’80
Jocelyn Curry ’78
Joan Esson, Ph.D.
Meredith Marshall ’21

Herbert Steps Up as First Female Chair

Succeeding Thresher as chair of the Otterbein Board of Trustees is Cheryl L. Herbert, the first female to hold that role at the University. Herbert served as the vice chair under Thresher.

“I’m honored to be the next chair of the Board of Trustees,” Herbert said. “Chair Thresher has left a big legacy to live up to, but I’m ready to take on that challenge and help position Otterbein for continued and future success.”

Comerford said Herbert is poised for success in her new position. “Cheryl has shown true engagement as a board member, committee chair, and vice chair. She has been, and will continue to be, an excellent leader for Otterbein,” he said.

Herbert has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. She is a nurse whose career began at St. Ann’s Hospital before it moved to Westerville. She has held executive administrative positions at multiple hospitals and now serves as a senior vice president at OhioHealth.

Herbert earned her bachelor’s degree from Capital University and master’s degree in business administration from Ashland University. She is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, has served on numerous community Boards, and works as a volunteer in her community.

“I’m excited to see the directions Cheryl will take the University,” said Thresher.

The Class that Wasn’t Forgotten and the Class that Persisted

Celebrating 2020 and 2021 Graduates in One Weekend

Otterbein held five Commencement ceremonies to honor both the Classes of 2020 and 2021 on May 1 and 2. The weekend was a delayed celebration for the Class of 2020, 96.1% of whom were employed, enrolled in graduate school, or serving in the military within six months of graduation. For the Class of 2021, it marked the end of a difficult year full of obstacles they successfully overcame.

The decision to hold a ceremony for the Class of 2020 was an easy one. “The Class of 2020 was surveyed regarding an in-person or virtual commencement. Overwhelmingly, the class supported an in-person experience. Students wanted this special opportunity for family to see them walk across the stage and be recognized for their individual accomplishments,” said Steve Crawford, executive director of alumni and family engagement.

By Madelyn Nelson ’23
More than 750 graduates from the Classes of 2020 and 2021 crossed the stage in Memorial Stadium on May 1 and 2. President John Comerford (pictured) presided over the five ceremonies.

The celebration kicked off with annual events leading up to the weekend, including Lavender Graduation to honor LGBTQIA+ students and allies, Noble Transitions to celebrate multicultural students, and the Baccalaureate Ceremony, an opportunity for spiritual reflection before commencement. All of these ceremonies are available online at Otterbein Commencement Recap.

The graduate and undergraduate students of the Class of 2020 and the graduate students of the Class of 2021 were celebrated at two ceremonies on May 1. The undergraduates of the Class of 2021 were honored at three ceremonies on May 2.

With Memorial Stadium open at 30% capacity, each graduate received four tickets for immediate family to watch the ceremony in person, seated in pods with social distancing and facial coverings. All friends and family were invited to watch the special day via a livestream.

The weekend closed a chapter for the Class of 2020 and gave them the proper, formal Otterbein farewell that they deserve — a day that was a whole year in the making finally came to life.

After a year of challenges, the Class of 2021 celebrated the culmination of their time at Otterbein. They persisted through guidelines, adjusted to online formats, and took the monumental steps across the graduation stage. Now, diploma in hand, they are ready to take on the world.

The 2021 Undergrad Student Speakers

“The pandemic does not define our college experience; we have spent the last four years joining and leading sports teams, clubs, and other organizations while using our various skills to make a difference. We helped pave the way for future student leaders while also being molded into the ones we are today; we asked questions and we demanded change.”

Angel Banks

Psychology and criminology and justice studies major Angel Banks has been a student leader and strong advocate for issues of social justice and racial equality, serving as vice president of Student Government and president of the African American Student Union. Her ideal work is “building equitable and sustainable environments where people of minoritized backgrounds feel safe and are set up to succeed in life.

“Otterbein has given me such a strong foundation in every aspect of my life that I know I will only continue to grow and be a lifelong learner. It has given me a clear path to my dream career; has made me critically think not only in my classes but in my everyday life; has given me a support system that I will take with me after college; and has given me an opportunity to meet people who are different than myself and challenge my current beliefs.”

Gabby McGeorge

Biochemistry and molecular biology (pre-med) major Gabby McGeorge will be attending medical school to pursue a career as a cardiothoracic surgeon. On campus, she was president of the CardinalCorps Leaders, a group of students who excel academically and in service to others.

“I am not here to tell you that with hard work and dedication you can accomplish even the most unimaginable dream you may have. I am here to prove it to you. We have grown a lot and we will continue to grow. We will continue to take opportunities, but now we will also be able to create opportunities.”

Alex Natividad

Spanish and Latin American studies major Alex Natividad will be teaching Spanish in Columbus City Schools after graduation. His career hopes include, “being the best teacher in the world.” He wants to know his students as human beings and help them to find or create their own paths towards their goals.

GRADUATES BY THE NUMBERS

2020 Undergraduate

2020 Graduate

2021 Undergraduate

2021 Graduate

Inspiring Graduates of 2020 and 2021

“I started the Black Student-Athlete Union for the purpose of bringing support and security of the valuable experience Black student athletes have in this community now and in the future. I wanted to build an allyship in sustaining an inclusive athletic environment that takes contribution from all involved with Otterbein athletics.”

Phanawn Bailey ’21

Finance major Phanawn Bailey played midfield for the men’s lacrosse team for four years. He used his position as a student-athlete to advance equality on campus.

“My most valuable experience has been the time spent with knowledgeable, compassionate, and dedicated nursing professionals. My graduating peers and the Otterbein faculty have not only supported my education and learning, but have become treasured members of my family.”

Francesca Bryan-Couch DNP’21

Dr. Francesca Bryan-Couch is a care coordination chief for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Her Doctor of Nursing Practice project was titled, Evaluating VA Nurse Acceptance of Virtual Healthcare Technology during the Coronavirus Outbreak.

“I’m excited to finally cross that stage, especially as the first woman in my family to do so. I’m thankful to Otterbein for not giving up on seeing graduation through for the class of 2020.”

Kaitlyn Brooks ’20

Despite the upended job market due to the pandemic, Kaitlyn Brooks turned an internship at TMH Solutions, LLC, into a full-time job after graduating in May 2020 with bachelor’s degrees in marketing and business administration and management. She served as a student trustee on Otterbein’s Board of Trustees, and she’s already giving back to her alma mater as a member of the Young Alumni Board.

“I chose to continue my education at Otterbein because they offered the 4+1 program for accountants. This allowed me to get my undergraduate degree in four years, then complete
my CPA exams and MBA in the following year. I was able to earn all three of the designations I wanted in my career in just five years because of the opportunities at Otterbein.”

Nick Hassinger ’20, MBA’21

Nick Hassinger is a back-to-back graduate, earning his bachelor’s degree in accounting in 2020 and his master’s degree in 2021.

“Being a nursing major and growing up in a family full of healthcare workers, I wanted to shed light on what they were doing [during the pandemic]. With the virus, it was so much more than ordinary care, and being outside looking in, I didn’t feel that frontline workers had a voice. Writing Frontline was my attempt in giving them that voice.”

Devin Henry ’21

Nursing major Devin Henry wrote an original song to honor frontline workers fighting the pandemic. He aspires to work in a critical care unit with hopes of one day becoming a pediatric nurse anesthetist.

Class of 2020 Student speaker

“Amidst so many unknowns in the past year, I am beyond grateful that the Class of 2020 is being honored this May. While this might not be the graduation we expected, I am so excited that my classmates and I have been given the opportunity to return to Otterbein to celebrate together. I think this is the perfect example of Otterbein’s dedication to students and alumni.”

Katie Exline

Biology alumna Katie Exline is enrolled in The Ohio State University College of Optometry where she serves as the president of her optometry class.

Where are They Now?

Class of 2020 student speaker finalists are making their mark.
Maya Venkataraman

Maya Venkataraman ’20 is currently taking part in the University of Southern California Rossier School of Education’s online master’s degree in teaching with a concentration in K-12 English education. She hopes to teach English education in international high schools, primarily in Southeast Asia and Europe. She graduated with bachelor’s degrees in psychology and English creative writing.

Mina Zaky

Mina Zaky ’20 is currently enrolled in The Ohio State University Mortiz College of Law. He graduated from Otterbein with bachelor’s degrees in sociology and criminology and justice studies.

Dakota Brown

Mathematics alumnus Dakota (DJ) Brown ’20 turned an internship into a job at Grange Insurance, where he now works as an actuarial analyst. He is pursuing an Associate of the Casualty Actuarial Society (ACAS) designation.

John Posey

Philosophy alumnus John Posey ’20 is currently on active duty with the National Guard, serving in central Ohio.
Learn more about his story >>

Madelyn Nelson ’23 is a public relations major from Coshocton, OH. She is involved with the Student Alumni Board, Host and Tour Program, and Sigma Alpha Tau. She is an intern in Otterbein’s Office of Marketing and Communications.

Related Link

Commencement Albums

Class of 2020
Undergraduate and Graduate Commencement

Class of 2021
Undergraduate Commencement ceremony 2

Class of 2021
Graduate Commencement

Class of 2021
Undergraduate Commencement ceremony 3

Class of 2021
Undergraduate Commencement ceremony 1

Theatre and Dance Adapts Fall Season

Like all of our programs, the Department of Theatre and Dance had to adapt how they teach, rehearse, and perform due to the pandemic. With the eyes of the public on their performances, the students adapted techniques, technology, and even costumes, to produce successful performances this fall. You can read about their three productions — The Theory of Relativity, An Enemy of the People, and Dance 2020: The Wild Within — at the links below.

Dance 2020: The Wild Within

An Enemy of the People

Related Link:

The Theory of Relativity

Dance 2020: The Wild Within

The Theory of Relativity

Adapting to COVID-19

COVID-19 has changed everything — how we learn, work and play. The Otterbein community has met the challenges of this pandemic with a variety of responses that are defined by grace, humility, humor, and ultimately, resilience and hope. In checking in with our community, we found shared truths that remind us we are not alone in what we feel, how we are coping and what we are learning about ourselves in adapting to this temporary but challenging COVID-19 world.

Sarah Bouchard

PROFESSOR, BIOLOGY AND EARTH SCIENCE

Sarah Bouchard, a professor in biology and earth science, describes adapting to the pandemic in phases. “At first, it was all crisis management: Who needs a computer? Who needs help with their wi-fi connection? Does everyone have a safe place to live?,” Bouchard said.

Then, after the dust settled and it was time to “get down to the business of teaching and learning,” Bouchard said it felt a bit like staring into an abyss. “I knew my students were all out there, but I wasn’t sure what was going on with them.”

Now, she says she’s discovered that with careful planning, creativity and flexibility, she can still capture much of what it means to be teaching and learning despite the challenges.

“Although it has been hard, my classes are all benefitting from the revisions and adaptations that I have had to make,” Bouchard said. “The pandemic has really highlighted how much I value the close, personal relationships that I’m able to have with my students.”

Bouchard, named Otterbein’s 2020 Master Teacher, is a physiological ecologist, active researcher and active part of the Zoo and Conservation Science program.

Fernando Jose-Chairez ’23

SPANISH/LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES AND JOURNALISM/MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS
The biggest challenge I’ve faced during this pandemic has been trying to stay financially afloat while trying to grow as a person. Financially, I am on my own more than ever. Growing as a person is another challenge — it’s hard to know who one is if all you can do is mostly stay indoors, online.

Adeline Almendinger ’19

ASSISTANT MERCHANT, EXPRESS
Adeline Almendinger ’19 turned an internship into a full-time job as an assistant merchant at Express when she graduated. Until March 2020, she reviewed and planned timelines and sales from week to week, arranged store “looks” and worked with multiple teams to decide which styles will sell. But how has the fashion retail industry dealt with a pandemic when people aren’t shopping in stores, dressing for work or going out to eat? Almendinger said it requires a different approach to decision making. “COVID has made things a lot harder from a retail perspective because we are not able to physically see the product,” she said, adding that making connections with her teams also has been challenging.

Theory of Relativity:

“Otterbein University’s deft first streaming production brims with ardent singing and honest emotions.”  Those are the words of theatre critic Michael Grossberg, The Columbus Dispatch, about Otterbein’s first socially distanced production, The Theory of Relativity. The departments of Theatre and Dance and Music partnered to safely produce the musical, filming fully staged performances in advance — complete with lights, sound, scenery and costumes — and streaming to audiences online from Oct. 8-11.

Paul Wendel

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR AND CHAIR, EDUCATION
So how are the teachers who are preparing the future teachers adapting? “We’ve learned to hold good classes in configurations ranging from entirely online
to half in-person and half online. We’ve learned to conduct socially distanced in-person experiments with online lab partners, sometimes conducting the
experiments outdoors.”  The adaptations go beyond Wendel’s classes into his students’ K-12 field placements. “Our students are teaching classes in person
and online, learning a wide range of online tools in the process,” he said. 

This award-winning educator offers the perfect lesson to this situation. “With a good deal of humor we’re all adapting, learning and growing together as educators — and we’re finding we can handle just about anything,” Wendel said.
Wendel was named the 2020 Exemplary Teacher and proudly describes his students as his future colleagues.

Lisa Minken ’03

BROADWAY MARKETING MANAGER, COLUMBUS ASSOCIATION FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS (CAPA)

Promoting CAPA’s Broadway in Columbus Series changed dramatically for Lisa Minken ’03 in March when she learned during a Columbus run of My Fair Lady that the State of Ohio was restricting theatre performances. “The show opened on a Wednesday and by Thursday gatherings were no more.” Since then, her work has focused on keeping fans engaged until theatre makes a comeback. “Normally we would be in our current season and we would have already had a show,” she said. Predicting the future during the pandemic is difficult, but Minken is hopeful Broadway in Columbus can return by spring 2021. “Every day is a day closer to having our theatre doors open.”

Sara Anloague Bogan ’18

COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST, OHIOHEALTH 
Since March, Sara Anloague Bogan ’18 has been supporting the incident command center at OhioHealth’s flagship hospital, Riverside Methodist Hospital, from home. Her goal is to keep OhioHealth associates and leaders informed and resilient through these hard times and support OhioHealth’s back-to-business efforts. “COVID-19 intensifies the need for clear, engaging communication. Because of the change of pace, there is always something that makes my job challenging,” she said.

Randy Mobley ’80

PRESIDENT, TRIPLE-A INTERNATIONAL LEAGUE

Each spring, Randy Mobley ’80 would complete final planning and oversight tasks and gear up for the regular season to start. This season was different.  “We shut down in March and began reworking our schedule, thinking we could start as early as late May. You look back now and think how silly we were,” Mobley said. Now, Mobley is unsure about the future. Minor League Baseball teams continue to lose revenue while Major League Baseball is seeking to alter its relationship with the minor leagues. “We’re going to do what we can do,” he said, “but for now we’re along for the ride.”

Evan Brandao ’22

COMMUNICATION STUDIES

I have been using this time to think about what my passions are, how I want to pursue them and how Otterbein can help me. I’ve been reaching out to local professionals to get advice, and it is amazing how much insight people are willing to provide if you take the initiative to reach out.

Jeremy Llorence

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, ENGLISH

Jeremy Llorence, an assistant professor in English, has encouraged his students to find activities or hobbies that they find fulfilling to balance their worries. “You can use things you enjoy doing to recharge after all of the video calls you’re going through,” Llorence said. “Whether for socialization, for classes or for work, video calls can be really draining. I think it’s important for your mental health to take that time for yourself to do things that you find fulfilling — whether that’s creative work or just reading a book that you really love.” Llorence acknowledges that these are difficult times — but he’s taking heart. “If I’ve learned anything at Otterbein over my career here, it’s that we are a strong community, we are capable and we will get through this together,” he said. Llorence was named the 2020 Best New Teacher and is the faculty advisor for Otterbein’s Quiz and Quill literary magazine.

Lily Burnside ’23

ECONOMICS

I found a hobby of gardening. Working at the Otterbein Community garden was perfect because it was easy to social distance with my coworkers and because of the mental health benefits of being outdoors.

Anna Egensperger ’23

POLITICAL SCIENCE AND COMMUNICATION STUDIES

The biggest challenge I have faced during the pandemic is the inability to focus during online classes. I was frustrated with my lack of concentration, so I decided to take action to combat it.