Published April 18, 2020
During this time of social distancing and remote learning at Wittenberg, our alumni e-newsletter will be distributed twice a month.
Support Students
Wittenberg has launched the COVID-19 Crisis Fund to provide support for emergency student needs, unforeseen expenses resulting from remote teaching and learning, and virtual meetings with key constituents, including prospective students and their families. To help lead this effort, Bob '65 and Bonnie Cindrich '66 have issued a challenge gift to match dollar for dollar up to $20,000 to inspire other alumni and friends to help at this critical time. Make a gift here
Take a Class
On Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22, from 3:30-4:30 p.m., join us as we bring Alumni College on the Road to you virtually. Connect on Zoom for a special learning experience as Sarah Fortner, associate professor of geology and director of environmental science, discusses flattening the curve and how COVID-19 might inform climate action. She will look at parallels between curves and how science informs decisions. Our virtual Alumni College presentation is designed to be streamed live and can be viewed on a computer, tablet, or mobile device. Please RSVP by April 20 here. Seats are limited. Look for future Alumni College online courses and other ways to stay engaged on our Virtual Engagement page.
#GivingTuesdayNow
A new global day of giving and unity set for May 5, 2020, #GivingTuesdayNow is an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19 (in addition to the regularly scheduled Dec 1, 2020 #GivingTuesday). Alumni and friends can join the efforts by becoming an ambassador for the day. As an ambassador you’ll text, email, and post on social media to share why you support Wittenberg and encourage giving for the day. Generate your personal #GivingTuesdayNow URL by clicking the ambassador tab on any of the funds on our #GivingTuesdayNow page.
4.8 Million Views and Counting
Mike Mattison, associate provost, English professor, and Writing Center Director, and son Lucas found the right recipe for a recent social media post that has received worldwide attention and nearly five million views on social media. Learn more
Virtual Honors Convocation
To celebrate academic excellence, Wittenberg has been hosting a virtual version of its annual Honors Convocation with special videos to announce the award-winners on social media and on the University's website. To date, Wittenberg has recognized students earning departmental awards, seniors graduating with a 4.0. GPA, Fulbright semi-finalists, servant-leaders, and the presidential scholars. To view the coverage, including an opening welcome video by President Frandsen, click here.
STEM Educators
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wittenberg seniors Asharee Jones and Jubileen Kombe were partnering with the Ark Children’s Rescue Center in Springfield to engage students in science experiments in preparation for a science fair. They gave students opportunities to work on their scientific skills and learn about STEM field majors, as well as potential career paths.
National Symposium
Zoe Schwartz '20 recently had her paper accepted for the inaugural Richard Macksey National Undergraduate Humanities Symposium at Johns Hopkins University. Her double major in history and German, as well as her year-long experience studying abroad in Germany, inspired the paper, titled “In and Outside City Walls: Medieval Jewish Communities and Rulership in German Cities.”
Tiger Tank
Luke Campbell '20, founder of OVERCOME, a fundraiser to help children with disabilities live an active lifestyle by participating in sports, became the latest Tiger Tank winner after pitching his idea to three alumni judges earlier this year. As the winner, he will receive more than $25,000 worth of business assistance.
Faculty News
Associate Professor of Philosophy Julius Bailey’s latest book, Racism, Hypocrisy, and Bad Faith: A Moral Challenge to the America I Love, has been released by Broadview Press. Described by Harvard professor and author Cornel West as a “powerful text,” Bailey’s book examines current public discourse and its impact on ethnic minorities and low-income groups.
On Sale: At-Home Workout Gear
Do you miss the gym and getting a great workout in? Wittenberg Athletics & Recreation and the Office of Student Involvement, along with BSN Sports, have come together to offer all Tigers an exclusive opportunity to purchase top-of-the-line fitness equipment at a discounted price. Shop now before the store closes on April 20.
Save the Date: October 2-4
Come back to campus to enjoy special reunions, anniversaries, and celebrate new beginnings. Alumni from the classes of 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, and 2010 will have reunions. If you’re a graduate from one of the reunion classes and would like to serve on your reunion committee, please email us at alumni@wittenberg.edu
Nominate Alumni
Wittenberg alumni are making an impact in everything they do, both in their careers and their communities. The Alumni Association annually recognizes and celebrates our outstanding alumni at an awards ceremony during Homecoming weekend. You are invited to nominate Wittenberg alumni today for their chance to be celebrated at the Alumni Achievement Awards ceremony during Homecoming weekend. You do not need to be a graduate of Wittenberg to nominate a Tiger deserving of recognition. View the list of awards and nominate online.