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2021 News Stories

Spring 2021

Microgrants help BW students go from inspiration to innovation

A new grant-funding program is enabling BW students to transform their business ideas into exciting opportunities for small-business success.

BW alumna named 2021 Young Nonprofit Professional of the Year

Madeline Wallace '16 was honored for her life-changing work with the recently expanded Joseph's/Mary's Home.

BW Voices: Ohioans must act to fight the 'human security' threat of climate change

A BW national security professor and students offer a data-driven roadmap for Ohioans to fight climate change.

Alumnus charged with recruiting, developing and retaining talent at BW

Jeremy Short '91 is working to support each step in the employee journey at BW with an eye on elevating the student experience, as well.

Pandemic Rebound: BW professor 'PREPs' Cleveland students for reading success

Education professor Jeannie Votypka's research-backed program is part of summer enrichment in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District.

Original BW music and dance project shines 'One Light' on pandemic experience

Filmed on a rooftop overlooking Cleveland and Lake Erie, the project was conceived by BW's Community Arts School.

BW Summer Scholars engage in research, creative studies

Summer Scholar Juan Pablo Taborda is one of 10 students spending 10 weeks working on a research project under the supervision of a faculty mentor.

First-of-its-kind BW graduate business program prepares 'enlightened' leaders

Business professor Param Srikantia leads a graduate certificate with a fresh take on the future of business leadership.

BW grad leads SaaS company and gives back to sport management program

Gerald Hwasta '91, chairman and CEO of 24/7 Software, provided an NFL team case study to enhance student knowledge of sport venue management.

BW earns Gold Military Friendly® designation for veteran's support

Michael G. Brown leads BW veteran and military services, one of just 162 two- and four-year programs earning Gold status nationwide.

BW names 2021 Alumni Merit Award winners

Five outstanding BW alumni are being honored for their achievements and service by being named 2021 Alumni Merit Award recipients.

BW alumnus tunes the technology behind Spotify Studios

Ben Meadors BS, MBA '12, is using his computer science and business degrees to help Spotify Studios produce original podcasts and videos.

BW forges 3+3 program with CSU Cleveland-Marshall College of Law

The program takes a year off the normal time required to complete both undergraduate and law school degrees.

BW arts management and entrepreneurship grad opens dance studio

Christine Smyth '21 received a BW LaunchNET microgrant that helped her open The Smyth School of Irish Dance before finishing her degree.

E-shipping for this BW alumnus puts success in the box

In a time of disconnect, Greg Airel '10 is helping businesses get their products to the doorsteps of their customers.

Career pivot takes journalist from on-air to BW public health

With a new job and career focus, Dorsena Drakeford '23 is passionate about pursuing a master's degree in BW's public health program.

BW earns nearly $1.4 million Choose Ohio First grant for STEMM majors

The funds will be used to recruit and support students in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine majors.

Plants come to light in BW student's winning pitch idea

A combination lampstand and plant holder earned J.T. Schroeder '23 first place in the 2021 BW IdeaLabs Pitch Contest.

Military conflicts shaped Baldwin Wallace starting with Civil War

Wartime has often been a catalyst for innovation and change at BW.

BW STEM majors win NASA/Ohio Space Grant Consortium scholarships

The students will pursue and present research into glaucoma, urban hydrology and the medical treatment of obesity.

BW student's big idea for LGBTQ+ training wins national OZY Genius Award

The recognition for Dan Eggers '24 includes funding and a mentor to make his idea a reality.

Baldwin Wallace University names Timeka Rashid VP for Student Affairs

Rashid brings an impressive track record of success in student engagement, success and inclusion to BW.

Humanitarian heart, expertise lead BW alumnus to Pakistan for COVID-19 relief

Master of public health alumnus Dr. Osman Ulvi '20 is on the front line helping Pakistan battle its third wave of COVID-19.

BW women's rugby team advances to nationals in New Orleans

They will compete in the 2021 Collegiate Rugby Championship at Gold Mine Stadium, home of the NOLA Gold professional rugby team.

Baldwin Wallace names Steve Thompson as director of athletics

Bringing an impressive background in collegiate athletics, Thompson will begin leading the Yellow Jackets on June 7.

Vitamix, BW launch custom 'Learn and Earn' approach to workforce development

The program allows young workers to join the Vitamix team and spend a part of their time at work earning a new Bachelor of Applied Business degree.

BW Celebrates Two Graduating Classes at 170th and 171st Commencement Ceremonies

After a year on hold due to the pandemic, the pageantry of commencement day was back at BW.

BW Poll: Gap in perceptions of Cleveland schools, mayoral candidate recognition

The poll finds mixed perceptions of the quality of K-12 education choices in Cleveland, and candidates with modest name recognition.

BW nursing grads transform passion into a rewarding profession

In honor of National Nurses Week, BW recognizes the dedication and professional success of the students, alumni and faculty in its nursing programs.

BW Sport Management majors back in action at NFL Draft, Kentucky Derby

As large events resume, the experiential learning that's a hallmark of the BW programs has powered back up.

Pandemic slapstick is just the ticket for BW student actor-playwright-director

Acting major Sam Sommer '21 directed his thrice-written play despite seemingly insurmountable pandemic challenges.

BW students demonstrate teamwork, community spirit for Earth Day

BW student-athletes worked alongside the volunteer group Sustainable Berea for an Earth Day 2021 cleanup at Coe Lake Park.

Medical Mutual gifts $1 million for BW Endowed Professorship in Public Health

The new endowed faculty position will support BW's effort to fill a regional talent gap.

BW Students, Alumni Showcase Entrepreneur Dreams in New Streaming Series

"Dream It, Do It" documents the challenges and successes of Northeast Ohio college student-entrepreneurs.

Ovation 2021 Day of Excellence puts BW student success in the spotlight

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

New Fanfare is Opus of 175-Year BW History

BW's newly composed fanfare combines history, passion and pride woven into 83 seconds of majesty and thoughtful sequence.

BW Turns 175: Offering an Extraordinary Education to All Since 1845

Distinctive values that made BW stand out in 1845 help to drive the University's success today in any circumstances.

BW LHE Grad Says BW Master's Degree Prepared him for College Leadership Roles

Cody Holland '18 is on the fulfilling career path that the BW Leadership in Higher Education (LHE) prepared him to pursue.

BW Uses CARES Act Funding to Expand Financial Support for Students

BW will pay off all current, outstanding account balances for students who receive Federal Pell Grants.

Big day for BW Gives

YJ4L pride, enthusiasm and support made this year's BW Gives campaign a success for generating a record-breaking donation total.

BW among elite colleges for GRAMMY Museum affiliation

BW is one of 22 universities in the world named an educational affiliate of the GRAMMY Museum — an honor offering amazing opportunities for...

BW biology grad fulfills passion with master's degree in science teaching

Nicolette Kunath '20 is now in the classroom after turning to her alma mater for an immersive MAEd in Science Teaching program.

BW community rolls up sleeves to stage COVID-19 vaccination clinics

BW begins dispensing one-and-done vaccines to students under the State of Ohio's campus vaccination initiative.

Vernaci, Ruiz to speak at in-person BW commencement ceremonies

Outdoor commencement ceremonies featuring speakers Gina Vernaci of Playhouse Square and Victor A. Ruiz of Esperanza will honor 2020 and 2021 grads.

BW's 'April Reign' is reimagined for 2021 as month-long 'Goose Chase'

From May Day to April Reign, the tradition continues as a safe but creative and fun scavenger hunt.

Alaskan audiences tune in to hear BW alumnus

Anthony Morabith '13 is on the air in "Alaska's playground," keeping listeners in the know.

Transgender individuals look to BW to assert their voice

For the trans community, BW is a place of welcoming support where campus programs spanning voice therapy and music enrich their lives.

New BW Facebook groups unite community

Across the decades, the BW community shares a bond of pride and connection — which comes to life in the new BW Community Facebook Group and...

Campus Compact names BW student a Newman Civic Fellow

A passion for equal access to healthcare was the key to a fellowship for public health major Madina Mahmoud '23.

BW students elect 109th student body president and vice president

Students elected Ezra Ohly '22 to serve as the 2021-2022 student body president and Ryan Bolin '22 as student body vice president.

Seeking Community Amid Tragic Loss

Transformation of BW health sciences building underway for fall opening

The project at 201 Front St. will create a high-tech home for BW students studying to be nurses and physician assistants.

BW prof 'scores' big with video game class

Pop culture goes to the forefront in an exciting new course that combines video game music and meaning with interactive learning and play.

Beat dropping BW alumnus connects lyrics to racial justice

Wesley Williams '17 uses his music to help people understand the struggle in Black communities.

Baldwin Wallace University recognized as 'Voter Friendly Campus'

The national designation recognizes BW's campus-wide effort to overcome barriers to student political participation.

Women thrived as BW took a stand for inclusion at 1845 founding

An Ivy League snub helped inspire BW's founder to insist women would be welcome at his new school more than 175 years ago.

Bringing visitors to Lake County is a home run for BW alumnus

From a minor league baseball team manager to a Lake County visitor ambassador, Neil Stein '01 is finding success on multiple fronts.

BW writing new chapter in community engagement and service

BW is beginning the process of reimagining the Project Affinity summer service internship program after the sale of Archwood House.

Pediatric patients feel like stars with help of BW alumna

Becca Wagner '13 has found the art of communications can be good medicine for hospitalized kids.

Baldwin Wallace track star 'races' to NASA Johnson Space Center

Liz Goetchius '06 went from track star to an impressive career trek at NASA, where she works as a scientist with the International Space Station.

BW professor's research unpacks Donald Trump's 'gonzo' Twitter storytelling

Sociology professor Brian Monahan studied how the collective posts created an "alternate reality" that many Americans believe.

BW celebrates Black History Month

With a long and proud history of inclusion, BW is honoring its illustrious alumni during Black History Month.

Hollywood taps BW alumnus for next 'Transformers' movie

Paramount Pictures and Hasbro Studios selected Steven Caple Jr. '10 to direct the movie set for release in June 2022.

From BW classmates to soulmates

On this Valentine's Day 2021, we celebrate the more than 2,000 alumni couples. Here are a few stories from YJ4Ls who found love at BW.

BW's free IRS VITA Tax Clinic will go on with new pandemic safety protocols

The BW Tax Clinic allows trained, faculty-mentored students to gain real-world experience while providing a community service.

BW Speech Clinic is caring community for people with Parkinson's disease

From clients to student clinicians, the BW Speech Clinic provides outstanding learning opportunities and professional therapy service.

Education propelled extraordinary life of BW's first Black graduate

Born into slavery, Daniel Webster Shaw went on to earn a doctorate and forge a prominent career as a minister and writer.

Standout BW arts management & entrepreneurship student gets noticed

From TikTok triumph to prestigious West Coast arts residency, Danny Ruffing '21 is building a career-launching resume.

New JacketCare offers round-the-clock telehealth to BW students

Program extends the options available to students seeking medical and mental health services.

EPA grant supports BW project to transform food waste into campus hunger buster

Faculty-student collaborators in computer science and sustainability are working on a smartphone app to recover and redirect leftover food from...

From vision to reality: BW's new, high-tech STEM center opens to students

The Austin E. Knowlton Center is a cutting-edge hub for computer science, mathematics, physics and engineering.

Human rights activist, Black Lives Matter co-founder, speaks at BW MLK Day event

Opal Tometi encouraged a virtual, BW MLK Day audience to move from awareness to action on issues of racial inequity.

Fall 2021

BW MBA alumnus leading Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center into the future

Daniel Ferry, MBA '10, was named president and CEO weeks before Crystal Clinic opened a new state-of-the-art hospital in Fairlawn, Ohio.

BW student-athlete plants future in nature

Field research at BW and Holden Arboretum is helping biology major and student-athlete Maddie Bednar '22 build an impressive vita for graduate...

Fall 2021 Baldwin Wallace University Graduates Pledge to Make a Difference

Nearly 300 students celebrated the completion of their degrees on Saturday, Dec. 11.

Baldwin Wallace Nursing Program ranked #3 out of 44 Schools in Ohio

The ranking is based on superior performance by BW graduates on the licensing exam required to practice nursing.

BW Conservatory alumna wins Brattleboro Music Center Residency

Ashleigh Gordon '06 is selected to be Brattleboro Music Center's inaugural artist in residence.

Environmental justice leads BW professor, students to research effects of redlining

Gathering soil samples from across Greater Cleveland is helping BW researchers analyze environmental disparities and redlining.

Exceptional 100% physician assistant certifying exam rate sets BW apart

BW has notched a perfect PANCE pass rate over the entire seven-year life of the PA program, an achievement unmatched in Ohio.

BW alumnus has 'write' stuff for Hollywood success

Hard work, creativity and adaptability enabled writer-producer Alex Sherman '10 to build a successful career in television.

Baldwin Wallace student receives top undergraduate paper award

Evaleigh Noel '22 receives award for best paper at Ohio Communication Association conference.

Baldwin Wallace students score gold medal jump in 2020 voting rate

A new report shows voting by BW students increased significantly in last year's presidential election, rising to a whopping 72%.

BW Career Center steers students, alumni, employers through hiring boom

The current job market for college graduates is red-hot, and a relocated BW Career Center is evolving to meet the need.

Grit, success are center stage for BW music theatre student

Optimism and confidence combine with talent, poise and tenacity for Savannah Cooper, whose medical challenges don't slow her dream.

Dedicated alumnus, BW Officer Richard Fletcher to speak at Commencement

On Saturday, Dec. 11, BW will celebrate the success of nearly 300 graduates and welcome Richard "Dick" Fletcher '70, MBA '76,...

BW joins military tradition of honoring veterans with custom challenge coins

The token of pride, connection and appreciation will be presented to graduating senior veteran students.

BW's 'First-Generation' college students excel as family trailblazers

Baldwin Wallace celebrates students seeking to become the first in their families to earn a college degree.

Alumni support BW student veterans to succeed in life after military service

Through a special campus endowment fund, BW alumni honor and support the needs of students transitioning from military service.

BW art exhibition makes double impact

Rich Cihlar '02 and Bob Peck are incorporating a unique art scholarship fundraiser in their "Don't Panic! Brace for Impact!"...

BW gets healthy with Walktober

The BW community was invited to get up and get out there and rack up as many steps as they could in the month of "Walktober."

BW Athletics Alumni Association Hall of Fame welcomes new inductees

The 14 distinguished Yellow Jacket athletes were formally inducted and honored during a winning weekend.

BW students 'Got the Beat' at 2021 Rock Hall induction spectacle

BW's music industry program scored the hot ticket that enabled 50 students in several related majors to attend.

Food insecurity outreach changes lives for both BW student and her clients

Public health major and future doctor Hunter Welch '22 served as a bridge to much more than food resources.

48-hour horror film contest crowns BW student-alumni flick among bloody best

Fifteen students and alumni created a tense short film that earned 10 nominations in Cleveland's 48-Hour Film Horror Project.

BW-trained triple threats back on Broadway and in national tours

Veronica Otim '20 is one of four recent music theatre alumni making Broadway debuts this fall, among eight BW grads on The Great White Way.

BW student shines light on mental health with luminous T-shirt design

LifeAct chooses a sketch by art education major Kara Carreras '22 to represent the 17th annual "Into the Light Walk."

North Hall makeover creates appealing living-learning home for BW STEM majors

The upgrades will include improved creature comforts like air conditioning and specialized student programming.

Baldwin Wallace transfer students make leap that pays dividends

As BW marks National Transfer Student Week, Jordyn Rozek '22 is a shining example of transfers finding a fit in the BW community.

BW students forge big dreams with internships in Big Apple

From PR to social media to marketing, BW students Gianna Occhibove and Kiris Fox are gaining valuable career experience.

New BW courses explore diversity through the lens of music

BW's Conservatory of Music is helping students explore diversity through new courses that look at Disney soundtracks and Afro-centric music.

Justin Bibb leads Kevin Kelley in BW CRI mayoral poll; 40% still undecided

Safety and schools top the list of issues that weigh on the minds of Cleveland voters.

Baldwin Wallace University honored with first Grindstone Legacy Award

The Berea Chamber of Commerce recognized BW for contributions to the community at the 53rd Annual Grindstone Awards.

BW Music Theatre returns to live performance with 'Into the Woods'

The interactive, immersive production will surround audience members and transport them "Into the Woods."

For newbies and diehards alike, esports ramps up at Baldwin Wallace University

The BW esports program, the latest BW Rec activity, is building membership and competition opportunities.

Vibrant Bold & Gold Homecoming Festival ignites Baldwin Wallace community spirit

With wall-to-wall events for everyone, Yellow Jacket pep and pride ruled Homecoming weekend.

Baldwin Wallace grads shine on the silver and small screens

BW alumni appear in a range of film and TV projects filmed during the pandemic.

Baldwin Wallace University music theatre grad wins Tony Award

Sainty Nelsen '11 was among the winners at the pandemic-delayed 74th Tony Award ceremonies on Sunday night.

BW music theatre major sings national anthem at Cleveland Browns game

Rodrigo Torrejón '22 performed "Star-Spangled Banner" for 67,000+ fans at the Cleveland Browns Sunday, September 26 game.

Stephen Boesel '68: A Lasting Legacy as BW alumnus, trustee, benefactor and friend

The retired Wall Street investment manager from humble beginnings left an indelible mark on his alma mater.

BW alumna co-writes first-of-its-kind medical book for parents

Dr. Meghan (Guthrie) Marsac '03 provides parents with tools, knowledge and skills to support their children facing medical issues and fears in...

BW student-faculty computer science research group on a roll

Students are building skills and portfolios with research accepted by conferences around the world.

Kaboom Collective links BW students to music industry experts and experiences

A new BW partnership with Kaboom Collective will engage students in professional music projects from studio albums to video game soundtracks.

BW professor sounds the alarm on reverse Robin Hood 'trickle-up economics'

In a new book that BW students helped to research, Dr. Mark Mattern argues the clock is ticking on the worsening imbalance in the U.S. economy.

Accolades for Baldwin Wallace University abound in 2022 US News Rankings

BW shines in the latest rankings of the nation's top colleges by U.S. News & World Report, with kudos from other ranking services, too.

BW announces grand marshals for 2021 Bold & Gold Homecoming Festival

Grand Marshals Irene '53 and Ted '51 Theodore will bring to life YJ4L spirit at the campus-wide Bold & Gold Homecoming Festival on...

Teammates honor BW alumnus with scholarship on 20th anniversary of 9/11

BW football teammates founded a scholarship in memory of Donald Delapenha '85, who was killed in the South Tower of the World Trade Center.

BW accounting students bring home fourth consecutive ethics win

Chloe Carmack '21, Kristin Geraci '21 and Luke Vonderhaar '23 won first place at the Intercollegiate Ethics Competition.

BW public health graduate student produces opioid information podcast

Libbey Pelaia '22 curates and hosts MetroHealth's "OnePath: Safer Opioid Prescribing" podcast.

20 years later, symbolism and scars of 9/11 inspire BW student-faculty research

Dr. Brian Monahan and Clara Mey '21 study two decades of 9/11 media coverage and America's changing perception of the event.

BW professors recognized for excellence

Five faculty members have been awarded top honors for their achievements.

BW begins exciting new year

With the largest incoming class since 2015 and exciting new programs and opportunities for all students, BW's school year is off to a great...

BW's four-year nursing program welcomes first students in transformed space

BW welcomes first students to enroll in the undergraduate BSN program in a transformed academic home base.

BW welcomes 2021 new faculty

With impressive accomplishments, 10 new full-time faculty are joining the BW community.

All-campus rally kicks off BW school year

It's food, fun and fellowship as the BW community unites for a special celebration marking the start of the school year.

Museum internship paves the way for BW grad's career in arts management

Danielle Hill '19 fuses her interest in race and social justice to inspire communities through the arts.

BW students learn by teaching at reimagined, faculty-mentored camp

A pandemic-sidelined summer reading program was renewed this year with a new community partner and a new focus.

BW English professor pens unique project, "Under the Sycamores"

In "Under the Sycamores," Les Hunter shares the fascinating lives of Clevelanders in a choose-your-own-adventure audio story at Erie St....

BW grad opens Cleveland's first eco-friendly refill shop

Rachel Regula '18 combined her passions for helping others, natural products and sustainability in her Little Spark Refill Shop.

BW Voices: Popular ideas about trees cooperating harm the cause of conservation

Writing in Scientific American, BW biology professor Dr. Kathryn Flinn challenges the trendy notion that trees act as caring "communities."

BW alumnus carries success from field to top of collegiate athletics

Randale Richmond '04 was recently named director of athletics for Kent State University.