Happy New Year to all! The first snow is falling, and as you can see from this picture I just snapped, (literally moments ago from me typing this) Chapman Hall is beautiful with the snow flying. Now, knowing that we are in Ohio, this might be a much different picture by the time you receive this, but I wanted to share the beauty of campus (even in the winter). This winter, with weather permitting, and into spring, I hope you will join us at one (or several) of the many events happening both on and off campus. Make sure to check out what's happening below as well as the insert in our latest magazine. If you have a chance, let me know what you think. We are always looking for new ideas for programming, events and ways we can keep you - our valued alumni and friends - connected and informed. I welcome you to share your feedback. I can be reached at graffiaz@mountunion.edu anytime.  

All the best to you and yours this New Year,

Anne (Zimmer '95) Graffice
Director of Alumni Relations and University Activities

Each month, we take a moment to share a brief story about one of our own to show you why we are so proud of our Mount Union family.      

This month, we feature Mark Hawald, Mount Union's head wrestling coach. Watch the exclusive interview with Hawald to learn about what's happening currently with Mount Union's wrestling program.   

Florida Alumni Gatherings
January 20-25 

Alumni, parents and friends are invited to Mount Union's annual alumni gatherings in Sarasota, Tampa and Orlando. For complete details and online registration, visit Purple Raiders Central. *Please note that the gatherings are being held in January this year!

Women's Basketball Alumni Game
February 4

Women's basketball alumni are invited back to campus for the alumni game and gathering. For more information and to register, contact Head Coach Suzy (Venet '98) Pietz at venetsm@mountunion.edu.  

Dr. Doug Hendel's Retirement Gathering

February 18

Everyone is welcome to celebrate the retirement of Dr. Doug Hendel, professor of theatre, during a gathering in the Rodman Playhouse lobby from 3-5 p.m. Following the gathering, everyone is invited to attend the play You Can't Take It With You. For tickets to the production, contact the Department of Theatre after February 1 at (330) 821-2565.  

The Office of Alumni Relations and University Activities also are compiling a book of memories and well wishes on Hendel's behalf. Email your remarks today at alumni@mountunion.edu with Hendel in the subject line.

Education on the Run

February 20-22

Mount Union alumni and friends are invited to enjoy a wonderful array of presentations given by fellow alumni and faculty emeritus during this three-day adult education symposium! Call (330) 823-2030 to reserve your spot today! 

Kalahari Indoor Waterpark

February 25-26

Enjoy discounted room rates through Mount Union and spend a weekend away with the whole family! Contact Kalahari directly at 877-KALAHARI or (419) 433-7200 to make reservations.    

M Club Reverse Raffle and Silent Auction
March 31

All Purple Raider fans are invited to participate in a great evening of fun at Skyland Pines, with all proceeds supporting Mount Union athletic programs. Only 200 raffle admission tickets available, so call (330) 823-2030 today to purchase a ticket! Don't worry, the NCAA Final Four games will be on TV during the event.

Raider Athletic Competition

Winter sports are in action! Cheer on the Purple Raiders at an away game near your hometown or stop by campus and watch a game! Check the athletic website for all athletic events.

In the News...

University of Mount Union Highlights of 2011 

As 2011 comes to a close, it gives the University of Mount Union an exceptional opportunity to reflect on all the advancements that were made during the past year.

Students in Service Off to a Strong Start 

A new program at Mount Union, Students in Service, has led to a variety of volunteer projects throughout the community. Each student in the program is expected to complete 3,000 community service hours within a year. They are then rewarded with an educational award upon exiting the program.

Mount Adds Minor in Chinese to Its Curriculum 

In an effort to enhance the diversity of the University of Mount Union's campus community while exposing students to an array of cultures, ideas and values, a minor in Chinese has been added to Mount Union's curriculum.

Physician assistant clinical rotations are an exceptional win-win situation for both University of Mount Union students and physicians in the Northeast Ohio area. Once a student successfully completes the traditional biomedical and clinical preparatory coursework in the University's Physician Assistant (PA) Studies Program, the student completes 10 clinical rotations at area doctors' offices, hospitals and clinics.  

Endowed Lecture Series - Spring 2012 

All of these lectures are free and open to the community. 

Faculty Lecture

Professor of Economics, Accounting and Business Administration and Division Dean of Professional Studies

Derivatives: Friend or Foe?

Wednesday, February 8

Chair and Professor of Creative Writing at University of North Carolina Wilmington

The Patron Saint of Dreams

Thursday, February 16

Dean and Professor of New Testament and Preaching at Wake Forest University School of Divinity

Friendship as a Christian Practice: Embodying Jesus' Love in an Anxious World

Thursday, March 29

10:30 a.m., Presser Recital Hall

View a complete list of upcoming endowed lectures. 

Legacy Information Request

Purple Raiders Central - The official alumni site.

Keep Us Posted!