Malone Alumni News

Olga Jane Berk '62 passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025, following a brief but valiant fight against pneumonia. She was surrounded by her husband, children and grandchildren, who sang and prayed over her as she peacefully entered the presence of her Lord and Savior. Olga earned her degree in elementary education from Malone College. On August 11, 1962, she married Clarence Berk in Onsted, Michigan. They shared over six decades of devoted marriage.  She dedicated her life to education, teaching for a total of 31 years-first in Canton and Springfield Schools in Ohio for a year at each school, and then for 29 years at Blue Mountain Schools in Pennsylvania, where she retired in 1997. We lift up the Berk family in our prayers during this difficult time. To read the full obituary, click here . 

Dana (Orr) Kocik '91 passed on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at her home surrounded by her loved ones after courageously living with stage IV metastatic breast cancer for over 10 years. She was 57 years old. Her giving spirit always drew her to help those who needed it most, which was evident in her two careers as a therapist, and later in life as a special education English teacher at the local high school. Throughout her life, she was also known to reach out to anyone who needed support, whether that be through prayer, conversation, or personalized gifts. She touched the lives of dozens, if not hundreds, of people-guiding them through life's challenges, creating unforgettable memories, and always lending a listening ear. Dana also was an avid gardener, lover of animals, traveler extraordinaire, cooking expert, shopping enthusiast, reality TV fan, and a walking library. Because of her diverse hobbies, there was never a time when she couldn't find common ground with someone and...

Martha Ann (Lindquist) Wertz, age 93, of North Canton went home to be with the Lord Jesus, her Savior, on Friday, May 30, 2025. Martha earned a bachelor's degree in Education from Malone College and a master's degree in Sociology from The University of Akron. She served as registrar at Malone University, the Administrative Assistant for Sports Ministries at First Friends Church and the Association of Church Sports and Recreation Ministries. Martha was a member of First Friends Church for over 60 years, and was active throughout her life playing in golf leagues until last summer and bowling leagues this past winter. She was an avid gardener of vegetables, fruits and flowers. Martha could always be found enjoying numerous church activities, photography, family reunions, crafting and quilting and an avid prayer warrior. We lift up the Wertz family and all of Martha's community during this difficult time, and pray that they feel the comfort and love of Christ. To read Martha...

Shawn James Hollister, age 54, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025 surrounded by the people who loved him most.  A proud graduate of Malone University, Shawn not only earned his degree but also forged deep, lifelong friendships that meant the world to him. For the past 17 years, he dedicated himself to his role as Senior Director of Operations at the Kenan Advantage Group, where he was respected for his leadership, integrity, and kindness. More than anything, Shawn found purpose and joy in being a father. Nothing brought him greater happiness than watching his children, nieces, and nephews on the field or court, cheering them on with unwavering support and pride. He was always present, offering steady guidance and encouragement. We mourn alongside Shawn's community during this difficult time. For the full obituary, click here . 

  Three Malone alumni, Quinn Parker '11, Allison Harvey '15, and Kylee Crislip '16, were named as  2025 Twenty under 40!  award recipients. This program recognizes twenty outstanding individuals each year based on business acumen, leadership, commitment to the community, volunteerism, and personal and professional achievements. A current Malone faculty, Andre Payne, was also named as an award recipient.  Quinn Parker '11 was recognized for his career at GDK & Company as well as his contributions to the Stark Community through multiple volunteer boards and service opportunities.  Allison Harvey '15 was recognized for her work with Habitat for Humanity and the efforts toward making affordable housing accessible.  Kylee Crislip '16 was recognized for her work at CommQuest combatting Stark County's mental health challenges.   We are so proud of these emerging leaders from our Pioneer community who are living out Malone's mission to our world and k...

  Allison (Hammerle) Harvey '15,  government relations and grants manager with  Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio ,  has been chosen as one of the 2025 Twenty under 40! recipients.  Allison has spent her years since graduation at Habitat for Humanity and in the Canton community, where she worked to increase access to affordable housing in Stark County and beyond. Her work has impacted thousands of individuals through the creation of new housing, demolition of abandoned or blighted structures, and working alongside local neighborhood priorities.  " I believe empathy for others is the foundation of being a good community member," Allison said in her interview with the Canton Repository. "Plus, it will save you time and energy, help you to learn and grow, and strengthen your connections with others. Congratulations to Allison on this meaningful accomplishment! We are so thankful for alumni like her who are living examples of servant leadership and keeping...

Why is "the Malone experience" so important--and what sets us apart from other schools? We had the opportunity to meet with several 2025 graduates during that last few weeks of classes and hear about what made their time at Malone unique and meaningful. True to the Pioneer spirit, their answers were thoughtful, authentic, and made several of us in the Alumni office reflect on our own college experience!  Here are a few of their answers; let us know in the comments if these match your Malone takeaways, or if there's something else that marks your formation as a Pioneer! Question: " What has been unique about your Malone experience?" Our 2025 alumni said...    The close community dorms I see familiar faces everyday Relationships across different departments and groups around campus My professors go above and beyond Spiritual Formation Opportunities  I actually know my advisor! The small class size; I'm more than a number.   Question: How has your Malone exper...

  Quinn Parker '11, principal at GDK and Company ,  has been chosen as one of the 2025 Twenty under 40! recipients.  Quinn has been very involved in Stark County and the Canton community, including service with Cleveland Clinic Mercy Medical Foundation, Malone University, ystark!, Canton Montessori, and Church Sport Recreation Ministries.  "My goal is to continue growing as a leader in both my profession and in the community," Parker said in his interview with the Canton Repository. "I want to keep building meaningful relationships with clients, mentoring younger professionals and finding ways to give back through coaching and service. "Long-term, I hope to help create opportunities for others in Stark County — whether through business, sports, or community outreach. My aspiration is to lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and always look for ways to make a positive impact where I live and work."  Congratulations to Quinn on this meaningful accomplishme...

Brett Yeagley '04 will be the new superintendent at Lake Local Schools. According to a post from Lake,  " Yeagley plans to bring... a leadership philosophy that centers around collaboration, accountability, and a focus on what is best for kids. " Their post also shows excitement for Yeagley's leadership and presence following the retirement of Kevin Tobin.  "I am incredibly excited to be joining Lake Local Schools," Yeagley said in the post. "Lake has a proud tradition of academic excellence, an outstanding arts program, and a history of athletic success. I can't wait to meet the staff, students, and community members who make Lake such a special place."  Congratulations to Yeagley on this new position! We are excited to see another Pioneer keeping Christ's Kingdom First throughout the different seasons of their career.  You can read more about Yeagley and his role by clicking here . 

Cory Kromer-Edwards '18 was co-guest-editor for the May 2025 of Current Psychology (Volume 44, Issue 9), which was recently published by Springer. Current Psychology has long been an international forum for peer-reviewed, cutting edge research. It's exciting to see one of our very own Pioneers working alongside longtime professor Lauren Seifert, Ph.D., as co-editors on this meaningful initiative.  This special issue includes articles on a variety of topics including Humor Understanding, Attitudes Towards AI, Loneliness and Substance Use. Congratulations to Cory on this accomplishment! You can view the issue here . 

Paul Johnson '78 (front row, far right) was enshrined into the Stark County Amateur Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2025.  Phil Johnson, Paul's son, shared that his acceptance speech highlighted "the importance of investing in relationships... to see the eternal value that each person possesses." We celebrate Paul in this accomplishment and in the meaningful legacy he has left both on and off the court!  Congratulations Paul! You can read more about the ceremony and other inductees here in the Canton Repository .  

  Lawrence (Larry) Alan Lyman '63 joined his Savior on Sunday, May 18, 2025. Larry was born in Buffalo, NY on May 4, 1940, the son of the late Rev Harold and Helen (Stairs) Lyman. On August 26, 1961, he married the love of his life, Ellen (Alexander), who survives him.  Larry graduated in May 1963 from Malone College with a Bachelor's degree in Religion.  Larry served as a pastor within the United Methodist Denomination in Dewittville, NY, and then continued by pastoring at churches in Bradford, Oil City, Johnstown, Freeport and Sharpsville, PA. He was often lovingly referred to as "preacher man".  He loved to surprise his parishioners on his motorcycle (his favorite way to travel). Another favorite pastime was taking pictures of any and everything throughout the years.  Our prayers go to the Lyman family during this time and to all of Larry's community during this difficult time of grief, eve as we celebrate that he is with the Lord and living in glory forever....

  Jasmine '21 and Clayton '21 Cooper recently welcomed the first addition to their family in their wonderful daughter Lucy Mae Cooper. Congratulations to the new parents; the Pioneer community is praying for continued blessings and grace as you adjust to life with your new little one! 

Lee D. Hartline '77 of Bolivar, OH passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at the age of 72. He was born on October 28, 1952 in Massillon to the late Dale and Mary (Ream) Hartline.  Lee graduated from Malone College with a degree in Accounting and Business Administration. Lee was heavily involved during his time on-campus, including serving the class of 1977 as Senior Class President. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Janet Hartline; children, Seth (Tamara) Hartline and Amanda Hartline; grandchildren, Levi and Emmett Hartline; sister, Faye (Doug) Heintz; and several nieces and nephews. Our prayers go to the Hartline family during this difficult time. To view the full obituary, please click here . 

Wilbur F. Amacher, Jr., 97, of North Canton, passed away in the comfort of his home on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Wilbur served in the United States Marine Corps from 1951 to 1953 until he was honorably discharged. He worked for Plain Local Schools as a 6th grade teacher for many years and then went on to serve as an Elementary Principal at Ransom Barr School for 27 years until his retirement in 1991. Wilbur loved his career in education, especially working as a teacher, and was very grateful for the wonderful staff he had as principal that kept him alert, not knowing what to expect next, which was all in good fun. Wilbur was married to Kathleen Krieg for 44 years before she passed on June 9, 1994. Two of Wilbur’s proudest moments were the births of his and Kathleen’s two sons, Bill and Brett. On November 25, 1995, he married Joyce “Joy” Cuthbertson, and they have enjoyed almost 30 years of marriage together. Our prayers go out to the Amacher family and all of Wilbur's community duri...

Kylee Crislip '16,  senior director of outpatient behavioral health services at   CommQuest Services Inc ., has been chosen as one of the 2025 Twenty under 40! recipients.  Through her work at CommQuest, Kylee tackles some of the community's toughest mental health challenges. She has recognized a shortage of clinicians in the industry and is helping develop the next generation of professionals. "It is vitally important to me that everyone in our community has access to high quality mental health assistance and services, no matter the circumstance or financial situation," said Crislip, a licensed professional clinical counselor-supervisor. Congratulations to Kylee on this meaningful accomplishment! We are so thankful for alumni like Kylee who keep Christ's Kingdom First in their workplace and community.  To read the full article about Kylee, click here . 

Justin Troyer, '14, was recently appointed as market president by Farmers National Bank for their Ohio West region.  Justin has served in various roles with Farmers since his graduation in 2014, and most recently held the position of commercial banking team leader.  His new role will carry over several of the same components--such as team leadership and working with business customers on financing and deposit needs--while also elevating him as a local leader for Farmers.  Congratulations to Justin on this accomplishment! 

Born June 5, 1948 in Mount Vernon, Ohio. Linda graduated from Mount Vernon High in 1966 and Malone University in 1970 with a degree in elementary education. She taught in the Canton City Schools for a few years then changed careers and retired after 28 years from Stark County Department of Jobs and Family Services as a Program Administrator. Linda enjoyed traveling, reading, volunteering with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters program, tutoring children through different churches and organizations, volunteered at Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital and was a member of Mercy Hospital's ANGEL Network who did outreach to women and men regarding breast cancer. We send prayers for comfort and peace to Linda's family and friends during this difficult time. To see the full obituary, click below.  https://www.cantonrep.com/ obituaries/pwoo1177842

  The 2025 Women's Impact Awards were recently held this past Saturday, May 3rd at Prestwick Country Club in Green. Among the honorees was Sue Grabowski '91. The Women's Impact Awards honor individuals who have advanced women in both the workplace and in the community. Sue was awarded the Connection Award as one of five award recipients out of 23 individuals nominated for awards this year. Sue currently serves as the CEO of Desidara, a marketing firm with several clients regionally, nationally, and internationally. Sue also serves on numerous regional boards, such as Malone University and ArtsinStark. Congratulations to Sue on this outstanding achievement!

  Congratulations to Carlie & Vincent Leone '19 on the birth of their baby boy, Enzo James Leone! Enzo was born at the end of March and is doing well!! Thanks be to God for this amazing blessing and we are so happy for Carlie and Vincent! 

  Dianna Ramsay, 61 of Paris, Kentucky, departed this life on March 29, 2025 at University of Kentucky Medical Center. She was born Oct. 1, 1963 in Canton, Ohio, a daughter of the late Richard Zimmerman and Margaret Good Zimmerman. Dianna was a 1981 graduate of Salem High School and 1985 graduate of Malone College and 2017 graduate from Kentucky Community Technical College as her lifetime dream of an RN. Dianna taught preschool, elementary school and adult education. Then after becoming an RN, she worked at Bourbon Heights Assisted Living Facility and St. Joseph Hospital and Norton Audubon Hospital in Kentucky. We send our prayers and condolences to the family of Dianna during this difficult time!

(Article shared from Canton Repository) Tim Carmany '07 opened the door to a darkened art gallery space downtown.  Carmany, owner of The Hub Art Factory , wove his way through nooks of creativity. Artwork and photos were already posted by some resident artists.  Uncle Archie's Oddity Emporium also had staked out an area.   This was just the beginning for Tim's plans for the studio. Carmany has big plans for the two floors at 324 Cleveland Ave. NW. The new Second April Studios  will be a mix of working and exhibiting artists. Vendors also will sell art, gifts, vintage clothing and more in the downtown Canton space.  That experience will come in handy, considering he's trying to accomplish what's unheard of in downtown Canton — one proprietor running two art galleries and studios( which is quite amazing btw).  Second April Studios will hold its grand opening from 5-10 p.m.  on May 2nd in conjunction with First Friday   festivities downtown.  Co...

  Malone University recently celebrated Sustainability Week the March 31-April 6, highlighted by the Sustainability Festival April 5th!  As we all know, this is not auxiliary work for tree-huggers or those especially passionate about "nature;" rather, it is gospel work, and we want to commend Malone University and the Sustainability Committee for your faithfulness to this work.  Though no single event had a remarkable turnout, besides Faithful Friday (around 60 students came out to volunteer!), we saturated campus with messages of God's care for creation and our responsibility to join God in that good work of shalom-making for ALL of creation. Some "wins" to be proud of during this week are: AVI (campus food service) has committed to Meatless Mondays indefinitely Students learned the value of reducing meat consumption Around 50-75 students tried Tofu on Tofu Thursday for the first time Students were presented with the environmental impact of the fashion industry...

  Congratulations to Noah '21 and Alexis (Lexi) '22 Sommers on their recent marriage on April 19th! We pray that God blesses your marriage in numerous ways and you can celebrate a long life together full of joy, laughter, and love! 

  (Article shared from Canton Repository): At 79, Ken Hyland '69 seems stoked about his 53rd season at the Canton campus sandwiched by 25th Street and Route 62.  “I definitely would like, God willing, to go through with this group,” he said. “I tell my wife. ‘I’m going through with this last group.’ She tells me, ‘You say that about every group.’”  His office (first one on the right after coming through the front doors of Osborne Hall) is a mini-museum. International golf legend Bernhard Langer smiles from a picture on the wall.  Langer has been a guest at Hyland’s home in Marlboro Township. The property includes a six-acre, par-3 golf course with three artificial-turf greens and nine tees arranged to make holes as short as 54 yards and as long as 270. Stark County has been Hyland’s home for a long time. Early on, he found the county to be full of scratch players. Locals Don Nist, Alex Rotar and Jim McFarren could match him on his best days. Hyland and those thr...

“What I love most about these experiences is that they connect generations and allow individuals to express their creative sides. I believe that our God is very creative as He created all the Heaven and Earth according to Genesis 1:1. This is how God first introduces Himself and I believe that He gave us the ability to work creatively as well. Working creatively with nature allows us to marvel at what God did and can do.” We’re proud to celebrate Brianna Longo “B” ʼ25, for her article “A Buzzing Revelation” which was published in Bee Culture Magazine! B’s full article is available for access here (Subscription Required). https://beeculture.com/digital/april-2025/ Congratulations to B on this amazing accomplishment! Keep up the good work!

  Dr. Jaclynn "Jackie" Marie Krum-Frisch '87, 58, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away on April 14, 2025 at the Ebeid Hospice Center. A longtime Toledo resident, Jackie grew up in Toledo and returned after earning her bachelor's degrees at Malone University.  Dedicating her life to the church, she was the first woman to receive a Doctor of Ministry degree from Winebrenner Theological Seminary. Complications from vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome led to her medical retirement, where she spent the rest of her days crafting and spending time with her loving husband.We pray for the family of Jackie during this difficult time.

  Michaele "Mickey" Spreeman *61 passed away on April 11, 2025.  Mickey grew up in Canton, Ohio as a tomboy on a farm with her toy six-shooter, and graduated from McKinley High School (1960) excelling in marching band. She began studies at Malone College while working for Firestone Tire where she met and married her first husband, Joseph P. Hayden in 1962.   She played the guitar, piano, trumpet, and French horn. She remained active in bowling, often travelling to tournaments throughout the state. Mickey enjoyed the role of wife and mother but also held the position of park manager of Hillan Lake Village in Brooklyn, MI. Eventually she retired from the county health department as a Children's Special Health Care Representative.   Mickey remained a faithful and doting wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister bringing joy and love to her large family. We send our prayers to the family of Mickey during this difficult time.

  The trustees of the Austin-Bailey Health and Wellness Foundation have approved grants totaling $161,000 to 17 nonprofit organizations. Among these grants, Malone was the beneficiary of a $20,000 grant that will be used for equipment within the exercise science department to help students  in their academic and/or fitness pursuits. We wanted to say thank you to the Austin-Bailey Foundation for this generous grant, and we can't wait to see the ways in which God will help our students with new equipment!

  Wilma Jean Grams, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Altercare of Navarre.  After graduating from Westmont High School in Johnstown, Pa., Wilma attended Cleveland Bible College, where she met her beloved husband, Robert Grams. The couple united in marriage on Aug. 9, 1952, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared purpose.  Wilma’s passion for helping others extended beyond her professional life. She volunteered alongside her husband at the surgical unit of the Salem Community Hospital, now known as Salem Regional Medical Center, providing comfort and support to patients and staff alike.  A lifelong member of Salem First Friends Church, Wilma’s faith was the cornerstone of her existence. Her love for gospel music filled her home and her heart, often serving as the soundtrack to her other hobbies, which included reading and crocheting.  A funeral service to celebrate Wilma’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturda...

  Abbie Millard '00 was recently named the Educator of the Year for the Mahoning Valley. Abbie was selected for the recognition out of a pool of recommended educators from the 33 schools that comprise the Mahoning Valley.  Millard earned her bachelor’s degrees in grades 1-8 primary education, and K-12 special education from Malone University, and her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Nova Southeastern University in 2005 and has been a proud member of West Branch Local Schools for her entire 24-year career in education.  Millard said that she discovered her passion for teaching while she was still a student herself by helping other students with learning disabilities.  “I found a passion for working with other people in school while I was in upper elementary. I would spend my recess and spare time in multi-handicapped classrooms helping. That was really when I realized, and it’s all grown from there,” said Millard.  “I’m thankful for the privileg...

  Erin Brown Thomas '07 will have six of her short films featured in the Cleveland International Film Festival, this Friday, April 4th.  " Shorts in Focus: A Retrospective of Films Directed by Erin Brown Thomas" will begin at 5:10 p.m. at the Allen Theatre at 1407 Euclid Ave. on Playhouse Square.  "I first played at the Cleveland Film Festival with my short 'Hotwire' in 2015," she said. "Since that time, I've come back almost yearly with them playing 11 films in total. While I was doing my press line at Sundance Film Festival in January, I got a call from CIFF programmer Paul Sloop," she said.  "He gave me the good news that not only would my new films 'Chasers' and 'Tacocunr' be welcomed into this year's competition, but they would screen alongside four of my previous films in a retrospective block."  Brown Thomas, a 2002 graduate of Revere High School near Akron, graduated from Malone in 2007. She and her hus...

Congratulations to Julie & Sean '03 Savage on the birth of their baby boy! Andrew Dean Savage was born on March 13th weighing in at 6lbs 6 oz. and was 20" long born 5 weeks early! What a beautiful blessing this is for Julie and Sean! Congratulations once again!

Emma graduated from McKinley High School and went to receive her MA in Special Education from Malone University. She retired from Canton City Schools as an itinerant teacher for children with special needs for over 29 years.  Emma enjoyed baking, sewing, cooking and keeping in touch with her church family. She was always available to share her wisdom from the Bible. We send our prayers to the family of Emma during this difficult time!  

Brian Landies '07 has been tabbed as the next head football coach for the Chardon Hilltoppers football team. Landies takes over after Mitch Hewitt, stepped down from his role as the head coach of the team last month. Landies has been a member of the Chardon coaching staff for 13 years, acting as the defensive coordinator for the team that captured back-to-back state titles in 2020 and 2021. Former coach Mitch Hewitt said "Very few have sacrificed more for Chardon football over the years than Coach Landies." Coach Landies is extremely grateful for the opportunity and mentioned "I was blessed to be able to play for Coach Doyle and Coach Dipofl, and coach alongside Coach Hewitt the past 14 seasons. Together, with the rest of our amazing staff, we look to continue to build on the rich history we have inherited, and continue to make our community proud to be Hilltoppers." Congratulations to Coach Landies!!

Congratulations to Madison Gilbert '21 and her husband George, as they welcomed their baby girl, Tatum Mae on March 18th! Tatum entered the world weighing 7 lbs 8 oz. and was 21 inches long. Congratulations to Madison and George on this wonderful blessing!

Beyond Giftology, a book written by Malone alumnus John Ruhlin prior to his tragic death in the summer of 2024, was released yesterday.  Building on the transformative principles of Giftology , Beyond Giftology  takes John Ruhlin’s timeless approach to relationship-building even further. While Giftology  introduced the power of radical generosity in business, Beyond Giftology  expands on those foundations, offering deeper insights into authentic connection, trust, and the art of giving without expectation. Written for business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs, this book distills John’s most impactful lessons, reflections, and personal stories into a practical guide for turning relationships into a word-of-mouth growth engine.  You can find Beyond Giftology on the Giftology website or on Amazon . 

  Congratulations to Hannah '17 & Noah '19 Fisher on the birth of their baby boy, Tatum Drake Fisher. Tatum was born on March 13th, and weighed in at 8 lbs. 4 oz., and was 20 inches!! Again, a big congratulations to Hannah and Noah!

Alma J. Moore, age 62 of Stow, Ohio entered into God's eternal rest on March 7th, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Alma was a beloved sister, aunt, and friend, whose kindness, wisdom, and dedication to education left a lasting impact on all who knew her.  Alma was known for her caring heart, passion for sports, her love of cats and Barry Manilow, and of course her amazing faith. She was a member of Word of God Community Church in Canton, Ohio for over 20 years and found immense joy in teaching the Senior High Sunday School class. Outside of work and church Alma spent her time being a friend and mentor to many. She touched countless lives through her time spent at universities over the years both as a student and a teacher, as well as through the relationships she had with many friends that became like family. Prayers for Alma's family during this difficult time!