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2019 News Stories

Fall 2019

'Voices of Inspiration' continues with impressive spring lineup

As the campus community reflects on the words of four trailblazing fall speakers, the inspiring spring 2020 lineup is on the horizon.

PNC Foundation grant establishes PNC Scholarship for Success at BW

Baldwin Wallace University has received a grant from PNC Foundation to create and endow the PNC Scholarship for Success.

BW recognized for outstanding service through Jacket Philanthropy

The innovative, student-led, academic service-learning program was honored by the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Marking a Milestone: BW Celebrates 2019 Fall Commencement

With pomp and pageantry, nearly 350 students celebrated the completion of their degrees.

BW student newspaper earns national honors

The Exponent won recognition from the College Media Association and the Associated Collegiate Press at the National College Media Convention.

BW student-faculty study explores factors related to e-cigarette use during pregnancy

Public health major Mallory Walsh '21 presented their findings at the American Public Health Association Annual Meeting and Expo.

BW physics major earns extension for impressive dark matter research project

Lauren Kasper '20 will continue her research on detecting a never-before-seen particle tied to the theory of dark matter.

Political science journal names BW editor, opens doors for students

Dr. Lauren Copeland's new co-editor post is providing opportunities for BW students to get involved in a national academic publication.

'Kinky Boots' rides thigh-high at BW

The academic premiere drew praise from the show's Broadway producer, rave critical reviews and a BW music theatre homecoming.

BW students tackle germs on airplanes to win aviation innovation contest

An idea to reduce the spread of germs during air travel won a $1,000 first-place "SkyHack" prize for a team of BW students.

BW music theatre grad takes 'The Lightning Thief' to Broadway

Chris McCarrell '13 is lighting up Broadway for the second time since graduating from the BW Music Theatre program.

Innovative ideas earn cash prizes in annual BW "Start Something" contest

BW LaunchNET's annual idea competition garnered 78 entries, 136 participants and seven winners in four categories.

PFLAG honors Baldwin Wallace University's commitment to inclusion

PFLAG Cleveland recognized BW with the 2019 Bruce G. Kriete Community Award.

Baldwin Wallace gains approval for health sciences building

The building at 201 Front St. in Berea will be purchased and converted for use by BW's thriving PA and nursing programs.

After twists and turns, two-time BW grad finds her place in the classroom

A master's degree in science teaching flipped the switch on the right career for Kendra Blackburn.

BW transfer student finds purpose and direction in the challenge of problem solving

Physics major Nate Bianco '21 was invited to present his Big Bang theory research to an audience of experts.

BW theatre alumna, English professor get creative as 2019-20 CPT Premiere Fellows

Both fellows receive a $5,000 cash award and additional customized support for their creative projects on and off stage.

BW grad honored as longtime mentor, coach, teacher and volunteer

Tyrone Mosley '93 was recognized with the 2019 Lydia Thompson Humanitarian Award.

Boys & Girls Clubs leader Ron Soeder to speak at BW Fall Commencement

Visionary and award-winning leader Ron Soeder, president/CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Cleveland, will speak at BW's Fall Commencement.

Voting on Baldwin Wallace campus rises; BW goes 'ALL IN' to push participation higher

After a jump in voter participation in 2018, BW is poised to join the national "ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge."

BW film students, faculty share research through the lens of popular culture

They presented their project findings at the 2019 Midwest Popular Culture Conference in Cincinnati.

BW theatre grad inspires audiences, earns accolades with 'Trail Magic'

Bette Lou Higgins produced the film about the 67-year-old "grandma" who was the first woman to complete a solo thru-hike of the...

BW physician assistant grads transform passion into rewarding profession

In honor of National PA Week, BW commends the accomplishments and contributions of the students, alumni, faculty and staff involved in its PA program.

Jamaica offers BW students personal and professional growth

Ten-day trip yields long-lasting benefits for music therapy grad and music education student.

2019 BW Bold & Gold Festival marks Homecoming, Community and Family Days

BW's annual fall celebration was loaded with Yellow Jacket tradition, spirit and pride.

Knowlton Foundation grant supports new STEM center at Baldwin Wallace University

Major donor support was announced at a groundbreaking for the $25 million project, expected to open in January 2021.

BW biology alumnus forges wild and wonderful career

Wildlife biologist Brian Tornabene '08 has immersed himself in ecological research and conservation efforts.

BW Theatre Design and Tech program named Top 30 in the Nation

OnStage praises the broad professional theatre connections that BW faculty leverage to benefit students.

Baldwin Wallace to add men's volleyball, Mars named inaugural head coach

The new addition to BW's NCAA Division III athletics program will start competing in the spring of 2021.

BW engineering major works summer internship with NASA

Madison Kile '21 spent the summer working in the Icing Branch at NASA Glenn Research Center.

BW alumna rocks independent nature-based art business

Hannah Purdy Budic '02 creates masterpieces out of rocks, pebbles, seashells and more for her art business, Hunny B Design.

BW neuroscience majors earn NASA/Ohio Space Grant Consortium scholarships

The students will research the biological basis of gender, multiple sclerosis and neurodegenerative diseases.

New scholarship initiatives boost the affordability of a quality BW education

BW sets new pathways to affordable excellence with special awards for students involved in community youth organizations like scouting.

BW grad uses the power of music to help hospital patients

Music therapist Audrey Zybura '16 helps patients at Houston Methodist Hospital create personalized playlists to handle emotional distress.

Bilingual career goal leads BW senior down many paths

A double major in communication disorders and Spanish is just the beginning for Katie Fowler '20.

BW rankings rise ... and so do grads

BW moves up and stands out in rankings as an innovative, best value school that drives social mobility with superior teaching.

BW software engineering major lands dream internship with NASA

Lucas Shalkhauser '21 spent his summer working a Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) internship with NASA.

BW Riemenschneider Bach Institute turns 50

BW's Conservatory of Music will host a series of events to celebrate the anniversary and expand the impact of the priceless collection.

BW students give back to the Cleveland community through internships

Three BW students partnered with Cleveland-area nonprofits this summer through The Cleveland Foundation Summer Internship Program.

BW begins an exciting new year

A Week of Welcome tradition, the first-year class gathered for a commemorative BW photo. BW welcomed 660 accomplished and talented students as YJ4L.

Praise for The Cleveland Orchestra and BW Music Theatre's 'South Pacific: In Concert'

Rave reviews for an "Enchanted Evening" of music theatre magic at Blossom Music Center.

BW associate dean, psychology professor named ACE Fellow

Dr. Dale Grubb will spearhead a project for BW as part of the country's longest-running leadership development program.

BW welcomes 2019 new faculty

Seventeen new full-time faculty members are joining the BW community.

Spring 2019

Speaker series brings celebrated 'Voices of Inspiration' to BW

The 2019-20 lineup includes pro racing driver Danica Patrick and the first woman of color to travel in space, Dr. Mae Jemison.

BW Arts Management & Entrepreneurship launches guest faculty program

Students will tackle real-world projects in a new series of courses led by working professionals such as the founder of "Brite Winter."

BW music theatre program director honored with Cleveland Arts Prize

Victoria Bussert has been recognized for her phenomenal work with a Cleveland Arts Prize Mid-Career Artist Award.

Home Sweet Home: Berea named 5th "Safest College Town in America"

The ranking is based on a per capita analysis of the most recent crime statistics from the FBI.

Faculty-student collaboration at the heart of BW Summer Scholars

Through Summer Scholars, students spend 10 weeks working on a research or creative project under the supervision of a faculty mentor.

BW Physician Assistant Program notches perfect pass rate for fifth straight year

BW is the only program in Ohio and one of a select few in the nation to realize the achievement.

BW alumna living the dream working for Disney Theatrical Group

Stephanie Kelleher '19 helps bring magic to life as the new tour management coordinator for Disney Theatrical Group.

BW EMBA grad thrives as leader and consultant in the consumer goods industry

Sal Lazar, EMBA '00, has over 35 years of experience in the industry, including leadership positions with Dr. Pepper, Pepsi and Purpose Tea.

BW alumna runs virtual marketing firm

Jennifer Malcolm '98 founded and now runs successful virtual marketing firm Jennasis & Associates.

Wrestling grad's journey comes full circle at BW Center for Innovation & Growth

Two-time graduate David Shapiro '16, MAEd '18, is paying it forward in his new role at BW.

BW alumnus is Crain's Cleveland Business Twenty in Their 20s honoree

Patrick Mahoney '14 is being honored for his work at University Hospitals and leadership within his community.

Washington attorney Agnes Dover named board chair at Baldwin Wallace University

Agnes P. Dover started a three-year term as chair of the trustees on July 1.

BW business professor Param Srikantia takes popular talk to TEDx

Srikantia's provocative "Why Life Sucks" talk explores approaches for unleashing human potential.

BW English education grad honored for STEM-integrated language arts class

Candace Hisey '13 has earned a 2019 Ohio Excellence in STEM Teaching Award for her integrated language arts course.

All-Star Student Veterans Center Opens at Baldwin Wallace University

The center was chosen by Major League Baseball and the Indians as a 2019 All-Star Legacy Project.

BW alumna shines in lighting design

Maureen Patterson '01 has been honored for her work in lighting design by both Crain's Cleveland Business and Women in Sports &...

BW alumna reflects on internship in Alaska

Julie Simmons '19 shares insights from a summer spent restoring a national landmark and exploring Sitka, Alaska.

BW education grad moves into school administration role

Amanda Irwin, MAEd '19, transitions from the classroom to a school administration position this summer.

BW MBA director sparks debate on the future of health care

Tom Campanella has more than 30,000 followers as he boldly blogs about the challenges and opportunities in health care.

BW biology alumna turns internship into zookeeper and trainer position

Rachel Petro '17 is a zookeeper and trainer in an extremely competitive field.

BW English grad is Twitter sensation with the scoop on poop

As communications manager for the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, John Gonzalez '00 has earned notoriety on social media.

BW alumna directs hospital music therapy program

Samantha Sinai '12 developed and now directs a hospital music therapy program to bring comfort and happiness to patients.

Extra food finds new life through donation

An initiative uniting Baldwin Wallace with St. Herman House is transforming "usable food waste" into hot meals for local people in need.

BW alumnus awarded Fulbright

The prestigious honor of being named a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant is enabling William Lekan '19 to go to Taiwan.

Danny Cody '19 is highest Major League Baseball draft pick in BW history

The right-handed, All-American pitcher was selected by the Houston Astros in the 17th round of the MLB amateur draft.

BW grad wins elite fellowship in Germany

May graduate Tessa (Smith) Fenstermaker '19 was chosen for a year-long U.S. State Department funded exchange in Germany.

BW men fourth in Division I and women win Division II national title in racquetball

Both teams continue a long streak of wins at the state and national level.

Not lost in translation: BW Spanish service partnership conquers language barrier

BW Spanish majors honored for translating hundreds of letters between foster children in El Salvador and their U.S. sponsors.

BW History Department hosts Phi Alpha Theta Ohio Regional Conference

BW students and an alumnus also received awards for papers they presented at the conference.

A 'pipe dream' no more

Before BW, Adam Ramsey '18 thought his goal of becoming a scientist would never happen. Today, he has acceptance to a top-ranked doctoral...

Six honored with BW Alumni Merit Award

On May 19, BW recognized six outstanding alumni with the highest honor conferred upon a graduate by the university.

BW student entrepreneur wins funding for campus safety app at ideaLabs competition

Sam Kratsas '21 was among the winners at the Entrepreneurship Education Consortium (EEC) Regional ideaLabs competition.

BW broadcasting major crowned Miss Greater Cleveland, ready to compete for Miss Ohio

With a personal social impact platform, Emma Rose Lewis '19 earned a scholarship, the Miss Greater Cleveland crown and a spot to compete for...

BW playwrights are part of Young Playwrights Collective

Three alumni and a current student are participating in the Playwrights Local inaugural Young Playwrights Collective.

BW education alumna makes impact at LeBron James' I Promise School

Kay Low '88 serves as an intervention specialist at the newly founded I Promise School in Akron, Ohio.

Class of 2019 marks BW's 169th Commencement

Baldwin Wallace University celebrates the achievement of more than 730 graduates.

MLB All-Star Legacy Project to turn campus house into BW student veterans center

The transformation is a Major League Baseball 2019 All-Star Legacy Project.

BW Ovation showcases student success

A premier Ovation Festival event, Day of Excellence is one of 14 programs that bring to life the richness of BW student success.

BW Trustees vote to end formal affiliation with the United Methodist Church

The Board concluded that becoming an independent university would better serve BW's core values of diversity and inclusion.

Day of Excellence puts students in the spotlight

A highlight of the day was the Honors Awards Ceremony, which recognized students with scholarships and awards.

City green lights new BW center for math, computer science, engineering and physics

As demand for highly skilled graduates continues to grow, BW aims to have the new North Quad building open in January 2021.

Concussion recovery at forefront of BW research

With concussions being a top concern among athletes, a BW research project is poised to provide valuable data that can aid in treating the condition.

You bet your ‘Kinky Boots!’ Another first for BW Music Theatre, plus showcase success

As the senior class rocks showcase, BW starts auditions as the first university chosen to present 2013's Tony Award-winning Best Musical.

New BW major builds in-demand skills in tech career field

Poising itself to be an industry leader, BW is launching a new major in business information systems to prepare students for highly marketable jobs.

Magazine offers vibrant look at BW Conservatory of Music

Music, scholarly endeavors, alumni success and community outreach are explored in the spring 2019 issue of Conversation, a bi-annual magazine.

BW welcomes women from Saudi Arabia: Teaching physical education to girls

BW's School of Health, Physical Education and Sport Sciences provided training for a U.S. State Department exchange program.

Baldwin Wallace Cyber Security Team triumphs at Midwest CCDC Regionals

This is BW "CyberSec's" highest regional finish and the team's first ever appearance at the national competition.

BW student newspaper wins variety of awards

The Exponent continues to win awards from professional organizations under the direction of Dr. Brandon Szuminsky.

BW to Broadway to just 'Be More Chill'

Bailey Ford '20 is currently working in New York City as the social media intern for "Be More Chill."

A record-breaking big day for BW

The BW community came together to make this year's Big Give a record-breaking event that reflected the pride, enthusiasm and support of our YJ4L.

BW music therapy professor earns statewide service recognition

Music therapy professor Lalene Kay received the Ohio Music Education Association's highest award for her teaching, service and professional...

'Lizzie' heads to off-Broadway with BW music theatre grads in starring roles

Seven years after staging the Midwest premiere at Playhouse Square, BW's Victoria Bussert will direct two of her former students in lead roles.

BW elects 107th student body president and vice president

Students elected Allyson Crays '20 to serve as the 2019-2020 student body president and Arundhati Gupta '21 as student body vice president.

Student-driven Baldwin Wallace poll finds Ohioans torn on Trump, issues

The statewide survey probed opinion on a broad range of issues including healthcare, gun control and immigration.

Alumna promoted to managing director at prestigious Cleveland PR firm

Amy McGahan '92 has over two decades of PR experience, earning her a promotion at Dix & Eaton.

Graphic design student creates winning logo for the AICUO

Mikala Kmiecik-Burlingame '19 is the talent behind the new logo for the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Ohio (AICUO).

Voice performance alumnus makes solo debut

BW voice performance alumnus Michael Jankosky '07 makes solo debut with the San Francisco Symphony.

BW student raises wheelchair lifestyle awareness

BW student Melanie Greenberg uses a sociology class project to help peers and faculty understand the difficulties of life in a wheelchair.

Eco Honor: BW earns prestigious STARS sustainability ranking

A longstanding commitment to sustainability has earned BW Silver STARS recognition.

Sustainability major gets his hands dirty during summer internship

Senior Jon Mays '19 turned a summer internship into a full-time job offer with one of New York state's largest organic farms.

MetroHealth leader Akram Boutros to speak at commencement

A bold leader in public health, Dr. Akram Boutros, president and CEO of The MetroHealth System, will speak at BW's Spring Commencement.

Alumna's graduate school path goes from BW to Benin

For international studies major Madison McNeil '18, the route to graduate school began in a West African country the size of Ohio.

Wrestlers, track, basketball advance to nationals

It was a big week in sports as Baldwin Wallace student-athletes powered through opponents to qualify for NCAA Division III national tournaments.

BW Digital Marketing Center students give and gain an upper hand

With the help of the BW Digital Marketing Center and its director, Tim Marshall, BW students are getting the opportunity of a lifetime.

Physics grad is laser focused in graduate internship

Austin Conn '18 gained research and problem-solving skills at BW that are integral to his internship developing laser-based solutions.

Alumnus named to Crain's top forty

Rayshawn Eatmon '08 named to prestigious Crain's Cleveland Forty Under 40.

Economics, PR major is one of the youngest authors at the Fed

Sydney Stone '16 studied economics and public relations at BW and is now one of the youngest published authors in the federal banking system.

Students take home second place in national college cornhole championship

Anthony Kissel '21 and Timmy Jonas '19 traveled to South Carolina to compete in the National College Cornhole Championship.

BW statement on OPA game

Cancer researcher sowed seeds of discovery at BW

Dr. Jerry Chipuk, associate director of The Tisch Cancer Institute, credits his BW experiences with laying a solid foundation for his success.

BW adds in-demand digital marketing major

A new interdisciplinary major in digital marketing prepares students to excel in a career field that is fast-paced and ever-growing.

Cupid's Coeds

For more than 2,000 alumni couples, the sparks that ignited a lifetime of love first flew at BW.

BW grad takes charge of event booking at two premier LA venues

Hallie Yavitch '94 has accepted the position of vice president of booking for Staples Center and Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

New BW Center aims to elevate coaching and player development

The BW Center for Coaching Excellence draws together a range of resources to support positive athletic coaching.

BW alumnus elevates high school football program

Former BW student-athlete Brian Fox '11 takes on head coaching job for Elyria Catholic and turns program around.

BW MBA grad named Cleveland Clinic chief strategy officer

Josette Beran's new role is backed by 17 years of leadership in the health care sector.

Flute professor honored with service award

Flute professor George Pope was honored with a service award from the National Flute Association.

BW business alumnus creates app for emergency aid

Brian Hilinski '04 co-created Harmany, a top 100 semifinalist for the 2018 Consumer Technology Association Startup of the Year.

Alumna merges love of nature and communication as consultant

Alumna Cheryl Piropato '81 has merged her passion for nature and conservation with communications as a zoo and museum consultant.

Baldwin Wallace names new alumni director

Christie Davenport '01 brings impressive skills in leadership, community service and client relations to her role as director of alumni...

Improving access: Cleveland, BW partner with 'Say Yes to Education'

National nonprofit names BW a partner institution in effort to make college affordable.

The Cleveland Orchestra, Franz Welser-Möst captivate audience at BW

The magnificent night of music was part of the ongoing 2018-19 Cleveland Orchestra Residency at BW's Conservatory of Music.

Broadcasting alumna is morning radio show producer

Alanna Crummie '16 is the morning show producer for WNCX-FM 98.5 Cleveland's Classic Rock.

National organization names VP of student affairs to 'Pillars of the Profession'

Dr. Trina Dobberstein lauded for "significant lifetime contributions" to her field.

New hospitality & tourism management major offers in-demand business skills

BW's new interdisciplinary major is preparing students for success in the ever-growing, multi-trillion dollar hospitality and tourism industry.

Merger creates new Baldwin Wallace University Community Arts School

BW Community Music School takes over Olmsted Performing Arts to offer expanded multidisciplinary arts programming.

Student's composition premieres with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra

Conservatory of Music senior Nabil Abad is selected to be one of six composers showcasing work with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra.

Alumna facilitates difficult conversations

Kelly Maxwell '92 has made a higher education career out of helping others bridge the gaps in tough talks.