Malone Alumni News

The governing body of the Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve has unanimously appointed Debra “Deb” (Peters) Burke '92 as the organization’s next treasurer/chief financial officer. Deb currently serves as ESCWR’s chief operating officer and brings more than 20 years of experience in educational leadership. Jennifer Felker, superintendent of ESCWR, said Deb has been an integral part of the school’s leadership team. “Her knowledge of our organization, combined with her strong operational and financial expertise, makes her exceptionally well-suited for this (new) role. We are excited to have her continue serving ESCWR in this new capacity.” Debra's professional background includes leadership experience with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and in the private sector, with a foundation in finance, human resources systems and organizational operations. She graduated from Malone University in 1992 with a bachelor's degree in Accounting and a minor in Busin...

Marian L. Christensen '49, age 98, passed away Friday, April 10.  She was born on October 4, 1927, and  grew up surrounded by the values of faith, family, and hard work that would shape the course of her long and meaningful life. Marian earned her bachelor's degree in 1949 from Cleveland Bible College, now Malone University. Marian lived her life for God, family, and her passion for music, beautifully intertwining all three as a member of Salem First Friends Church. She served the church faithfully as a Sunday School teacher, choir member, and pianist for more than 35 years.  She also shared her talents at East Goshen Friends Church, where she played piano part-time. In addition to her church service, Marian was a member of the Christian Women's Club. Marian's interests extended beyond music, and she found joy in oil painting as well as tending to her flower and vegetable gardens. She was known as a loving, faith-filled, and passionate woman whose gentle nature and endu...

  Paul Muklewicz '03, age 44, passed away on March 29. Paul graduated from Malone with his Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics. He went on to teach and coach at Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy. Paul was tragically diagnosed with terminal cancer in July, but that did not stop him from living a life committed to the Lord and his family. Paul and his family were members of Christ Community Chapel.  Paul is survived by his wife, Suzy, his 4 children, and one child that is due this month, his mother, sister, and nieces/nephews. We send our condolences and prayers to Paul's family during this time as they navigate this tragic loss. We pray the Lord's peace and strength would reveal itself to the family. To read the full obituary, click here .

  John Hexamer '68, age 81, passed away on April 2. John obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and his Bachelor's of Science in Education from Malone. John made his career as a teacher, administrator, and driver's education instructor in the Northwest School District in Canal Fulton. John also loved the outdoors, and spending time with his family and friends. John is survived by his wife of 60 years, Judy, his 2 children, 1 grandson, siblings, and nieces & nephews. We send our condolences and prayers to the family of John during this time, and ask the Lord to be present with the family. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Amy Wentworth ʼ92 replaces husband as Indian Valley school superintendent Amy Wentworth, superintendent of New Philadelphia City Schools, was granted a three-year contract, effective August 1, 2026, with Indian Valley, her alma mater. She will be replacing her husband, Ira Wentworth, who is entering retirement. Contrary to appearances, he had nothing to do with the district’s decision to hire her. Rather, she was selected for her years of experience in education, which have included various leadership and administrative roles. Wentworth never imagined serving as a principal or superintendent when she first entered the field of education. Though she cannot pinpoint one exact moment that “shift” happened for her, she is grateful for the people and opportunities that have led her to where she is now. “I was encouraged to try administration, and I’m glad I did because I find this job very rewarding,” said Wentworth. She graduated from Indian Valley High School in 1989 as a c...

  Alma Martin *74 passed away at the age of 95 on March 27. Alma spent her career working as a teacher in the Massillon City School District, impacting young learners. Alma loved her family and the memories she created with them, particularly the many trips to Tappan Lake. She was also deeply committed to her faith and living a life committed to Jesus. Alma is survived by her 6 children, 20 grandchildren, and 31 great-children. We send our prayers to Alma's family, and pray the peace and comfort of the Lord would be with them during this time. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Robert "Ed" Edwin Haglock '86, age 71, passed away on March 19. Ed graduated with his Bachelor's degree from Malone in Business Management. He spent a vast majority of his career at Timken Steel. He was very involved in church, specifically at Dover First Moravian Church, and then later at Trinity United Methodist Church. Ed loved to be outside, spending time in God's creation. Ed is survived by his wife, Jill Anne, his two children, and his 4 grandchildren. We send our prayers to the family of Ed during this time, and ask the spirit and strength of the Lord be evident to the family. To read the full obituary, click here .

Christopher Maurer *69, age 76, passed away on March 18. Chris made his career as Executive VP of Human Resources at First Merit. He was also heavily involved in the community, including his role as an Eagle Scout and a Mason. Chris loved sports, including cheering on his favorite teams, and golfing with his friends.  Chris is survived by his wife, Cynthia, 2 daughters, 3 grandsons, and his siblings. We send our prayers to the family of Chris during this difficult time, and pray the Lord would be evident. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to Caleb '14 & Lexy Norrick on the birth of their baby boy, Tatum David Norrick! Tatum came into the world on March 19. Congratulations to the family on another sweet new addition to the family. We send our prayers to Caleb and Lexy as they transition into this new season as a family of 5. Hoping for lots of rest and energy!

Turning Noise into Calling: Ava Hoskins ‘25 and the How We Hear Scholarship It’s not that she can’t hear; it’s actually that she hears too much. Ava (Martinez) Hoskins ’25 has Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), a condition in which the brain struggles to distinguish between background noise and important sounds. Because of this, school was difficult from a young age—someone walking down the hallway demanded the same attention as a teacher speaking at the front of the classroom. “I always heard the school lights buzzing,” she said. “But of course, no one else hears that because they just tune it out.” After dozens of doctor visits, Hoskins was finally diagnosed with APD, a condition that affects about 5% of school-aged children but is often misdiagnosed as ADHD or hearing loss. With the correct diagnosis, her family was finally able to advocate for her needs. Teachers better understood her challenges, and Hoskins began using a Frequency Modulation (FM) system—an earpiece connected dire...

  Helen Grunder '13, age 61, passed away on March 20. Helen graduated from Malone with her Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership. Helen had a special love for animals, particularly cats, and was also someone who found peace and comfort in being outside in nature. Helen's true joy in life was her family, whom she loved dearly. Helen is survived by her mother, husband, step-children, siblings, and many extended family members. We send our prayers to the family of Helen during this difficult time, and ask that the family would experience the peace and the comfort of the Lord. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to Shaun Eller '10, who recently celebrated 30 years at Ohio Gratings, Inc.. Shaun joined the company in 1995, and wasn't viewing the job opportunity as a career, but rather a chance to find meaning in his work. He was hired, even though he lacked the advertised credentials, and started his career as an entry-level drafter. He has worked in a variety of roles and sectors of the company, including being the leader of the OGI plant in Texas for almost a decade, and now works as the Chief Business Officer. Shaun prioritizes a genuine care for his team & clients that is built through trust & performance. Eller says "Your job as a leader is to remove obstacles so your people can shine. Set the example. Listen before judging. Make our standards visible to all".  The faith culture at Ohio Gratings, Inc. is something that is very important to Shaun. The company employs a full-time chaplain to help employees with anything they might need. Shaun is als...

  Amy Collen '92, age 56, passed away on March 18. Amy graduated from Malone with her Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics. Amy made her career at Swaglok, but was also involved in the community, such as Girl Scouts and 4H. Amy is survived by her parents, and her two siblings. We send our prayers to the family of Amy during this difficult time, and pray that the peace and comfort of the Lord would be present. To read the full obituary, click here .

Congratulations to Shawn '18 and Abriana '17 Mills on the birth of their daughter, Mia Victoria Mills! Mia entered the world on March 10th, weighing 6 lbs. 15 oz., and was 19 inches long! Sending prayers and joy for the family as they transition into this new season! Hoping for lots of sleep and rest. 

  Congratulations to Malone alumnus Manning (Tre) Baumgardner III '25 on signing a professional basketball contract with  Basquet Costa Sud in Tres Arroyos, Argentina!  Coach Charlie Wallrapp added "Tre was not only an incredible player for us, but he was one of the best people and leaders that I have ever been around. I'm extremely proud of him and am so excited that he gets the opportunity to continue his basketball journey." In his lone season with the Pioneers, Tre averaged  13.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. Best of luck to Tre in this amazing opportunity!   Tre said " To be able to play basketball and travel the world is a blessing to say the least. I'm excited to start this next chapter!" 

  Linda Lou Sartwell '68, age 79, passed away on March 4. Linda graduated from Malone with her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Linda moved to Oregon after Malone with her husband, Richard, and had a long career working in mail services for George Fox University. She was also a woman of faith, participating in bell choir for over 3 decades at her church.  Linda is survived by her husband, Richard, her 2 children, and 1 granddaughter. We send our prayers to the family of Linda to find peace and comfort during this difficult time. To read Linda's full obituary, click here .

  Sam Manos, Jr. '00. age 71, passed away on March 11. Sam obtained his MMP in Management from Malone, and had a career as an RN marked by care & empathy. Sam was a deeply motivated man of faith, and he strived to love and care for others with a Christ-like care, especially to his family. Sam is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Stacey, his 2 children, 5 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. We send our prayers to the family of Sam during this difficult time, and that the peace of the Lord would surround them. To read Sam's full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to Andrew '14 & Mika '14 Fouts on the arrival of their baby boy, Hudson! Hudson made his entrance into the world on February 12! We are sending our prayers and hoping for lots of rest and happiness to the family as they adjust to this exciting new chapter of life!

  Congratulations to Keith Redmon '88, who recently announced he was stepping away as Director of Redmon Funeral Home. Keith is no stranger to the funeral home, as he grew up in the upstairs portion of the facility. Keith's inspiration for working in the industry came from his father. Keith and his wife, Christine, who also works at the funeral home, are looking forward to taking on a new challenge and finding another way to serve others. Keith has had a fulfilling & rewarding career taking over the family business, but now is the time to step away. Serving families and providing great experiences were at the center of the funeral home, and Keith has had a career he & his father would be proud of. Congratulations to Keith on this next chapter in life, and we wish you all the best! To read the full article on Keith, click here .

  Judith Vaught *84, age 82, passed away on February 26. Judith cared deeply for her family, and is survived by her husband, John Sr., her son, granddaughter, 3 siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews. We send our prayers to the family of Judith during this difficult time, and pray the Lord would provide peace & grace. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to Jake '20 & Brooke '21 Martell on the arrival of their baby boy, Luca! Luca came into the world on February 13 weighing 9 lbs., 2.6 oz. & was 21.5 in. long! We send our prayers for lots of sleep and energy as the family adjusts to this exciting new stage of life!

  Congratulations to Liza '16 & Aaron Jackson on the arrival of their baby boy, Finn! Finn entered the world on January 31, and was 8 lbs. 10 oz. and was 20.5 inches long. Sending our prayers for lots of sleep as the family adjusts to this new chapter of life!

  Congratulations to Bob Umholtz '79 on his recent retirement as Geauga County's chief public defender. This role was never something Bob thought of doing. Bob served as a Chinese linguist in the U.S. Air Force, and then came to Malone after leaving the military, where he graduated with a degree in Social Science with a concentration in Far Eastern studies. After getting summer job shoeing horses for a federal judge during his time in college, Bob was encouraged to go to law school. Bob met his wife at law school, and discovered his calling through public defense. Bob placed tremendous value in impacting those he represented in court. To Bob, public defense is about representing people, not excusing crimes, and that understanding a client’s life story changes how justice is viewed. Bob hopes that his career is a reflection of his faith and compassion. What started as encouragement from shoeing horses turned into a tremendous career spanning almost 4 decades that was marked by ...

  Anita Pittenger '77, age 71, passed away suddenly on February 20. Anita graduated from Malone with her Bachelor's degree in Art. Malone is also where she met her husband, Rick. Anita was deeply committed to her faith & Salem First Friends Church, where she taught classes and helped to assemble the church's history. Anita is survived by her husband of almost 50 years, Rick, her daughter, Julia, her 3 siblings, her father, and several nieces and nephews. We send our prayers and condolences to the family of Anita during this difficult time, and pray the strength of the Lord would surround the family. To read the fill obituary, click here .

  Dennis Ford '83, age 77, passed away on February 16th. Dennis graduated from Malone with his Bachelor's degree in Allied Health - Radiological Science. Dennis was a military veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. After his service, he became a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist and spend his career in this field. Dennis was a nature lover, who loved spending time outdoors, reading, and with his family. Dennis is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, his 2 children, and 3 granddaughters. We send our thoughts and prayers to the family of Dennis during this time, and pray that they would experience the peace & comfort of the Lord. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to Charity Rysak '19 on her recent appointment from Gov. Mike DeWine to be the state commissioner for the New African Immigrants Commission. Charity began her term on December 19th of 2025, and will serve until at least 2028 in this capacity. Charity is originally from Angola, Africa, and she moved to the Canton area almost a decade ago, obtaining her U.S. citizenship in 2022. Charity spent part of her childhood as a refugee in Zambia due to the civil war that was taking place in Angola. Charity is also a licensed realtor and a substitute teacher. In Charity's new role, she will be advocating for community integration, access to services, and elevating African immigrant voices in policy discussions. Rysak’s long-term goal is executive leadership, where she can shape statewide policy, build sustainable partnerships, and lead community-centered initiatives. Since her time at Malone, she has been heavily involved in civic engagement in Stark County, and her dete...

  Abigail Bontrager '25 has been building very strong connections throughout Northeast Ohio as she pursues a symphony position as a cellist. She plays for the Canton Symphony Orchestra, the Mansfield Symphony Orchestra, and with Azure Strings, a chamber group that plays at weddings and other special events. Abigail grew up playing chamber music with her mother, who is a freelance violinist in the Stark County area for many years, and her two siblings. Abigail has played the cello since she was 3 years old, and this training and expertise has given her amazing opportunities. Abigail graduated from Malone with a double major in cello performance and business administration. Abigail was also able to spend her last semester abroad in Austria, learning both musically and academically. Her favorite pieces of music to play are Tchaikovsky's No. 5 & ELO (Electric Light Orchestra) pieces with her tribute band. She is currently planning to audition for symphony positions while contin...

  Congratulations to Jonathan '20 and Haleigh '20 Dendinger on the birth of their baby girl, Rosie Malone! She came into the world on Super Bowl Sunday (February 8th), weighing in at 7 lbs. 7 oz, and was 19 inches long. Sending our happiness and prayers to the family as they adjust to this new chapter of life! We are so excited for them.

  Judith Cohodas '99, age 81, passed away on February 5. Judith obtained her Bachelor's degree in management (MMP) from Malone. Judith is survived by her 2 children, 4 grandchildren, and 2 nephews. We send our prayers to the family of Judith during this difficult time, and pray the peace of the Lord would surround them. To read her obituary, click here .

 The 2025 Lake Township Chamber of Commerce award winners were recently announced, and 3 winners for this year are Malone alumni! They are: Kristina Kindler '93 '02 - Educator of the Year Kristina is a double graduate of Malone, and has spent 3 decades teaching at schools in Stark County, including Heritage Christian School and Lake Center Christian. Kristina's classroom is marked by creativity and growth through several supportive strategies she incorporates for her students. She is deeply committed to her faith, and blends her faith into her teaching at Lake Center. Known for her joyful spirit and dedication, she exemplifies the mission of Christian education both inside and outside the classroom. Congratulations to Kristina on this amazing honor! You can read the full writeup for Kristina  here . Christian Ramsburg '12 - Outstanding Young Professional of the Year Christian graduated from Malone and went on to work for major shale formations in the gas & oil indus...

  Congratulations to Judge Elizabeth Thomakos '11 on her recent retirement from the Court of Common Pleas in Tuscarawas County. Elizabeth was elected as a judge in 1998, and hasn't looked back since. She attended Stephens College in Missouri, but her life changed and she decided to pursue law school after hearing a speaker she was covering as a communications and journalism major.  Thomakos launched key initiatives during her time on the bench, including a civil mediation program and a Drug Court aimed at rehabilitation and reducing repeat offenses. She then came to Malone to obtain her degree in Christian Ministries to develop a deeper sense of understanding for the people she was interacting with in court, and to make her a more compassionate judge. In her retirement, Thomakos hopes to be more involved in productions with the Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County, where she is so stranger to the stage. Congratulations to Elizabeth on this new chapter of life, we wish you all t...

Meet Christina Kimbrough ‘11, founder of Free Life and a community organizer committed to providing authentic connections – without alcohol. Her Malone experience was integral in making it happen.  Christina had a mixed relationship with alcohol after graduating from Malone, where her habit of social drinking eventually took up more and more space in her life. Right before the pandemic in 2020, Christina realized she needed a change. Stepping back from her life in Florida, Christina came back to Northeast Ohio to live with her grandmother for a few months.  “The pandemic was great for me,” she remembers. “It removed social situations where I would have been drinking and gave me time to heal.”  Upon returning to her home and husband, Christina realized that the social and community-building opportunities in her area often centered around alcohol. She joined a Facebook group of individuals who wanted to gather together without the pressure to drink, and they started organiz...

  Dr. Millard Niver, Ph.D., age 91, passed away on December 21, 2025. Dr. Niver was a long-time math and computer science professor at Malone. Dr. Niver deeply impacted the lives of his students, and the Malone community mourns his loss. In his free time outside of teaching, Dr. Niver enjoyed woodworking, nature, and golfing.  Dr. Niver is survived by his wife of 70 years, Thelma, his 3 children, 5 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. There will be a memorial service held for Dr. Niver on February 21 at the First Presbyterian Church in New Philadelphia, Ohio at 10 am. We send our prayers to the family of Dr. Niver during this time. To read his full obituary, click here .

Jodi Tyler '15, age 53, passed away on January 17. Jodi graduated from Malone with her Bachelors degree in Project Management. She had a very successful career working for the Goodyear Tire and Rubber company. Jodi enjoyed spending time with family and being a cat mom in her free time.  Jodi is survived by her mother, 2 siblings, and 5 nieces. We send our prayers to the family of Jodi during this difficult time, and pray the Lord would provide peace to her family. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Richard Bowen '02, age 57, passed away on January 22. Richard earned his Bachelor of Arts in Management from Malone (MMP), during which he was in the middle of a career spanning more than three decades working for the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction in various capacities. Rick had & maintained a deep love and passion for the outdoors. Rick took pride in the hunting camp he had built near Wayne National Forest, as this was another way he could spend time in nature. Rick is survived by his wife, Vicki, his parents, his two children and two stepchildren. We send our prayers to the family of Rick during this difficult time. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to coach Selana Ickes '15 on becoming the all-time wins leader for the Malone women's basketball program. Coach Ickes achieved career victory #131 on Saturday, January 17th against Thomas More. Coach Ickes is very familiar with the Pioneers basketball program, as she was a former player herself. Coach Ickes took over as the head coach in 2018, and hasn't looked back.  The Pioneers have experienced major success under Coach Ickes, even making an appearance in the Division II national tournament in 2023. Coach Ickes understands their is more ahead for the Pioneers this season, as they are firmly in the mix in the GMAC (Great Midwest Athletic Conference). Congratulations to Coach Ickes on the tremendous success she continues to experience at the helm of the program! To read the full article on Selana, click here .

  William Ertle *65, age 79, passed away on January 19. William was born and raised in Massillon, where he developed a passion for the Massillon Tigers football team. William later went on to have a successful career working in IT for Republic Steel and at FirstEnergy. In his free time, William also enjoyed golfing with his friends and spending time in Canada. William is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Cindy, as well as his 2 children and 5 grandchildren. We send our prayers to the family of William during this difficult time. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Megan Zahorec-Deierling '22 wanted to make a difference for students and their families. So, she decided to become a school & professional counselor. Megan works with children ranging from ages 8-11 to provide lessons in different capacities, from classroom sessions to individual counseling. These lessons are geared towards social skills & coping strategies. These sessions and children provide new situations and challenges to Megan, which she enjoys. Megan also is a huge animal lover, owning dogs, a cat, and guinea pigs. Her German Shepherd, Chase, serves as a therapy dog and goes with Megan to school to help students. She also helps to lead the "Start With Hello" program, which focuses on kindness and inclusion across the North Canton school district, from students to staff. From cultivating meaningful relationships with her students, to promoting kindness and a welcoming atmosphere, Megan Zahorec-Deierling is making a tremendous impact in her field. Congratula...

  Albert "Mike" Goff '66, age 83, passed away on January 19. Mike graduated from Malone in 1966 with his Bachelor's degree in Biology, and subsequently furthered his education at Purdue University and The Ohio State University. After completing his Ph. D., Jeff went on to have a career spanning almost 4 decades as a biology professor, most notably at Indiana Wesleyan University. Mike had a deep love for the outdoors, and had an unwavering faith in the Lord. Mike is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Carolyn, his 2 sons, Jeff and Scott, 7 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. We send our prayers to the family of Mike during this difficult time. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Carol Williams '67, age 80, passed away on January 9, after a decade-long fight with dementia. Carol graduated from Malone with her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, but she found her calling within Christian Education. Carol served as the Christian Education Director for 2 prominent Friends churches in the area, Canton First Friends & Jackson Friends. She also served with the Evangelical Friends Church - Eastern Region during her career. Carol had a deep and strong faith in the Lord, and she impacted so many people through her faith. She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Dr. John Williams Jr., 6 children, and 8 grandchildren. We send our prayers to the family of Carol during this difficult time. To read the full obituary, click here . 

Malone Spring Speaker Series 2026 Join us this spring for an exciting lineup of nationally recognized leaders, scholars, authors, and practitioners who will be coming to campus this semester. They’re experts on timely topics and eager to engage with us in thoughtful dialogue about relevant issues shaping faith, leadership, culture, and society. These events will include keynote addresses, lectures, Community Worship services, Q&A sessions, book signings, and special events designed to encourage reflection and meaningful conversation. Topics will include immigration, adaptive leadership, women in ministry, sexuality and faith, virtue and character, education, family and marriage, and spiritual formation. Details for each speaker’s appearance are available at  www.malone.edu/news , and reminders for each speaker will be shared in our monthly newsletter as well as on social media channels. Any recordings will be added to this blog post as they become available.  For your ease...