Malone Alumni News

Congratulations to Jessica (Parcher) Shelenberger '02 on her promotion to associate dean for student success at Westminster College!  In her new role, Jessica will provide strategic leadership for student support initiatives within the Student Success Center. In addition to academic success programs, she will oversee accessibility resources, coordinated care and the CARE early alert program. We are cheering on Jessica in this accomplishment, and praying for her success as she continues to cares for students in her new role at Westminster College!  This is adapted from a feature in New Castle News. You can view the original article here for more information.   

This article by President Greg Miller, Ph.D., appeared first in print in the Canton Repository . It has been reshared here with permission.  The warning signals across the American higher education landscape are flashing bright red.  Driven by shifting demographics, mounting student debt, rapid technological changes, and evolving workforce needs, the sector is shrinking. Since 2020, nearly 50 nonprofit colleges have closed their doors and another 40 have merged — largely concentrated right here in the Midwest and Northeast. Given these sobering statistics, people are often surprised when I express deep hopefulness about the future of Malone University and the roughly 200 institutions like us across the country (the member institutions of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities and the International Alliance for Christian Education). My confidence is not wishful thinking; it is grounded in our distinct, unchanging mission. In this fractured cultural moment, Christ...

Pamela "Pam" Smith '77 of Canton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026.  Pam graduated from Canton McKinley High School in 1960 and pursued music at the St. Louis School of Music in Missouri, training as a concert pianist after beginning piano lessons at the age of six. She later earned a bachelor's degree in early childhood education from Malone College.  Pam taught kindergarten and first grade at St. Paul's Catholic School and Edgefield Elementary in Plain Township before concluding her career teaching fourth grade at Amherst Elementary in Jackson Local Schools.  After teaching, Pam and her best friend, Carol, co-founded The Village Goose Country Store, which grew into a popular curtain and home décor shop before retiring after over 20 years. Our thoughts and prayers are with Pam's friends and family during this difficult time. To read the full obituary, click here . 

  Congratulations to Shane Byler '14 and the Lake Center Christian Tigers on winning the OHSAA Division VI state championship!  Shane played baseball at Malone for two years before choosing to stop and begin his coaching career in 2012. He graduated from Malone in 2014 with his BS in Middle Childhood Education. Over the past fourteen years, Shane has developed and grown the LCCS program; last year, they made it to the state championship and lost to Hiland High School. This year, they defeated that same team to secure their first state championship.  Congratulations to Shane and his entire team on this accomplishment! For more details, you can view his post-game video interview with the Canton Repository here . 

Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (CVCA) has hired RiCarlo "Rico" Bell '16 to serve as the school's athletic director. Rico joins CVCA after serving with Fellow of Christian Athletes, and in management and sales positions before that. Rico played football for Malone from 2013-2015 and graduated with his BA in Exercise Science. Congratulations to Rico on this accomplishment! We look forward to seeing how you keep Christ's Kingdom First in this new chapter at CVCA! For the full press release, click here .

   Congratulations to Trevor Beerman '18 who was named Head Coach at Eastern Michigan University! Trevor played baseball during his time as a Pioneer and graduated with a B.A. in Business Administration and Sports Management.  Trevor has spent the past three years at EMU and most recently served as their interim head coach for the 2026 season. In addition to his experience coaching, Trevor has built a growing reputation in player development and recruitment.  Congratulations to Trevor on this exciting accomplishment! The Pioneer community is cheering you on as you prepare for the 2027 season.  For the full press release, click here . 

  Congratulations to Kevin Paustenbach '10 who was recently named Assistant Men's Basketball Coach at Ferrum College! Kevin graduated from Malone with a B.A. in Sports Management, and has spent his career coaching at various universities and colleges.  You can read the full press release here . We're cheering for Kevin as he and his family start this exciting new chapter! 

  Brenda Lee Pavlantos '89 passed away on June 10, 2026 from complications following spinal surgery in August 2025.  She was a proud graduate of Timken High School, Class of 1974. Brenda continued her education by earning her Associate degree from Stark State, her Bachelor's degree in Business from Malone University, and her Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Brenda was an example to everyone she met of what it truly means to trust Christ completely. As a preteen, she was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, a journey that led to more than 30 major surgeries which drove her love of medicine and understanding the human body. When she was recently asked about the highlights of her life, she spoke about her early surgeries that restored her mobility functions and allowed her to live fully-as a wife, mother, Yiayia, and devoted member of her church and community. She considered that ability to keep moving forward one of her greatest accompli...

Robert "Bob" Grams '56 passed away peacefully at home on June 5, 2026. Bob was raised in Ypsilanti and grew up on a farm, where he learned the value of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance at an early age. After graduating from high school, he continued his education at Cleveland Bible College, now Malone University, where he pursued his passion for music and earned his Bachelor's Degree in Education and Music. He later received his Master's Degree from Youngstown State University, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning. While attending Cleveland Bible College, Bob met the love of his life, Wilma J. Howard. The two were married on August 9, 1952, and shared nearly 73 years together until Wilma's passing on March 31, 2025. Bob devoted 32 years to teaching in the Austintown School District, where he served at Frank Ohl and Fitch Schools. In 1957, Bob and Wilma joined the Salem First Friends Church, where their faith became a central part of their ...

  Shane Byler '14 was featured in the Canton Repository for his coaching career at Lake Center Christian School. This will be the second consecutive year Lake Center has made it to the state semi-finals, and Shane's fourteenth year coaching. Shane stopped his own baseball career here at Malone to become the head coach at Lake Center in 2012.  Congratulations to Shane for this wonderful feature, and we're cheering the Tigers on for their final games in the coming weeks! Click here to read the full article . 

Dorothy Mangrum Murphy '56 passed away peacefully into the presence of Jesus on May 7, 2026, at the age of 90. Dottie Ann was born on July 30, 1935, and enjoyed a sweet childhood as a pastor's kid. Through that experience she passed along a strong Christian heritage to her children and grandchildren.  Dottie attended Cleveland Bible College (Malone University) in Canton, Ohio and it was there that she met the love of her life and husband, Danny Ray Murphy '59. Their shared journey began on August 4, 1956, and would span over five decades and produce four children. Dottie dedicated 23 years to the Baptist Foreign Mission Board as a Human Resources Manager. While she excelled in her career, her greatest joy remained her family.  She continued to find enjoyment in her crafts and gardening as well as being a loving grandmother to her many grandchildren. Our prayers are with Dorothy's family and friends during this difficult time: that the love and comfort of Christ would fi...

The Malone University Athletic Department and Hall of Fame Committee have officially unveiled the 2026 Class to the Malone University Athletics Hall of Fame. The new inductees will be honored on Saturday, September 19 during Homecoming & Family Weekend at the Hall of Fame Ceremony inside the Johnson Center.   The 2026 Hall of Fame Class includes:   Eric Coblentz ('12, Men's Basketball) Korey Heppeard ('06, Baseball) Sarah Ogle ('03, Women's Soccer) Brad Reifsnyder ('06, Football) Paul Robinson ('10, Cross County/Track & Field) Brooke Smith ('01, Women's Golf) Ken Zupanic - Legacy Award ('76, Baseball)   First established in 1985, the Malone University Athletics Hall of Fame   recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in athletics while at the University. To qualify, athlete inductees must be graduates of Malone, must have graduated at least ten years prior to selection, must exemplify the highest ideals of intercollegiate a...

John Wesley Morris '53, at the age of 96, met Jesus Christ, His Lord and Savior, face to face on Saturday, May 23, 2026. John was born May 12, 1930 to Everett and Delphia [Galien] Morris and graduated in 1953 from Cleveland Bible College. He married Phyllis Jean Detweiler on August 31, 1951 and together they served as pastor and wife at Deep River Friends, Deep River, IA; Millville Friends, Washingtonville, OH; Trinity Friends, Van Wert, OH; First Friends, Mansfield, OH; Hughesville Friends, Hughesville, PA; Beloit Friends, Beloit, OH; Rollin Friends, Addison, MI. He also served as interim pastor at Stony Creek Brethren, Pleasant Valley United Brethren Church, and Springfield Friends, all in Ohio. John worked maintenance at Cleveland Bible College for a time to supplement his income. He was a member at Mt. Carmel Friends Church, where he served as greeter, Elder of Spiritual Life, and Elder of Stewardship. Our condolences are with John's friends and family; even as we grieve h...

Rebecca Sawers '11 was recently featured in an article sharing about her first season as the Women's Soccer head coach at Hebron High School (TX).  Rebecca moved into the role of head girls soccer coach this year after the previous coach stepped down after nine years. Under her coaching, the team placed fourth in districts with a district record of 8-5-1 and made it to the playoffs this year.  She grew up playing soccer in high school and continued her athletic career at Malone while studying education, math and science.  After graduating from Malone, Rebecca landed a teaching and assistant soccer coaching job in South Carolina. She stayed there for five years before moving to Texas, where she continued as an assistant coach for nine years before applying for  the head coach position at Hebron. “When they told me that I got the job, I was giddy,” Rebecca said. “I just knew that [Hebron] was where I needed to be in the next phase.” Congratulations to Rebecca for being...

Betty A. (Henry) Brantingham *61, age 86 of Cardington, Ohio passed away Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Country View of Sunbury.  Betty was a 1957 graduate of Cardington-Lincoln High School. Betty devoted her life to caring for others, both within her home and throughout her community. She was a member of Alum Creek Friends Church. Betty served as the Activities Director at John Clark Nursing Home in Newport, Rhode Island. She later continued her work in service to others as an administrator for a retirement village in Sarasota, Florida. Above all, Betty cherished her family. She found her greatest happiness in caring for them, especially her beloved grandchildren. She enjoyed cooking and baking, often bringing loved ones together around the table, and took pleasure in simple drives, appreciating the quiet beauty of time spent with those she loved. Our prayer are with Betty's family and friends during this difficult time, that the love and peace of Christ would fill their hearts and min...

Congratulations to Craig Carnes '10 and Emily (Calvani) Ernst '22 for being recognized at the Stark County Educational Service Center's annual awards ceremony!  Emily was honored as Jackson Local School's Rookie of the Year for her positive impact on staff and students.  Craig was named teacher of the year for Sandy Valley School Systems, where is Band Director. Craig has been at Sandy Valley for over a decade and also serves as union president and member of DLT, BLT, and PBIS teams. He was recognized for inspiring students with a lifelong appreciation of the arts.  We are cheering on these Pioneers and celebrate the ways they are keeping Christ's Kingdom First at their workplaces! To read more, please click here for Craig and here for Emily .   

Carol Bushong '85 passed peacefully on May 4, 2026, surrounded by the gentle love and care of her family, returning in eternal peace to be in the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Carol viewed every day as a gift from God. She built a meaningful career through her work at Aultman Hospital, doctor's offices, and a nursing school, while also completing her education at Malone College. Upon graduating, Carol immersed herself in the Deaf community. She didn't just learn American Sign Language (ASL)-she lived the culture and connected through sign to share the depth of her faith. Her ministry blossomed when she became an ordained minister and a founding member of "The Believers," a Christian music group that traveled across churches. Carol's capacity for selfless work seemed almost boundless. She masterfully managed full-time responsibilities at Aultman Hospital while simultaneously leading her spiritual calling of The Believers, and later serving as Asso...

Suzanne Kay (Botimer) Chrest, 73, of Howard, OH, passed away April 19, 2025, at Ohio Health Hospital, in Mansfield, OH. Suzanne was born April 17, 1952, in Coshocton, OH. Suzanne completed a bachelor's degree in education at Malone College followed by a master’s degree in education. She taught second grade for about 36 years in the Canton area and was still correcting grammar after she retired. She loved to read and was a creative person, making crafts for all kinds of people, and filled her home with several beautiful crafts and projects. She loved wildlife and nature. She loved to travel and only missed one of the states in the USA. Our prayers are with the Suzanne's family; that the peace and comfort of Christ would surround them during this difficult time. For the full obituary, click here . 

Congratulations to Susan Muklewicz '06 on the birth of Selah June, our newest future Pioneer!   Selah joins five other Muklewicz siblings. Praying for a smooth recovery and transition with their sweet blessing, especially in light of Paul Muklewicz '03 recent passing. May God bless your family abundantly!   

We are  proud to welcome Malone alumna  Delaney Ferrell  '24 as the eighth swimming & diving coach in program history. She had previously served as an assistant coach at GlenOak High School and was an Instructional Support Staff member at the elementary school level.   "Having the opportunity to return to Malone is incredibly meaningful to me as an alumna of the program and the University," Delaney mentioned. "My time as a student-athlete at Malone helped to shape who I am both personally and professionally, and I am beyond grateful for the chance to give back to a program and community that had such a lasting impact on my life. As I step into this position, I am looking forward to building meaningful relationships with our student-athletes and continuing to develop a positive, hardworking, and competitive team culture. My goal is to create an environment where athletes feel supported, challenged, and motivated to reach their full potential in the pool, in the cl...

  Congratulations to Patrick and Hannah (Louk) Walker '19 on the birth of their baby girl, Selah Anne! Born April 27, Selah joins three other siblings. Her name was picked for its biblical origin: found in the book of Psalms, "selah" signals a pause for worshippers to meditate on God.  Praying for a smooth transition and for grace, joy, and rest to fill the Walker home as they adjust to life as a family of six with their beautiful baby girl! 

The Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) has announced the Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Two members are entering the G-MAC Hall of Fame, including Malone University football and track & field student-athlete  Ashton Dulin . During his standout football career at Malone, Ashton established himself as one of the most electrifying playmakers in NCAA Division II. He capped off a historic senior campaign in 2018 by earning G-MAC Offensive Player of the Year and Special Teams Player of the Year honors.   That season, Dulin started all 10 games and led the Pioneers in receptions (61), receiving yards (984), yards per catch (16.1), and receiving touchdowns (11). He was equally dangerous in the return game, totaling 836 kickoff return yards and leading all of NCAA Division II with three kickoff return touchdowns. His 1,947 all-purpose yards and 15 total touchdowns underscored his unmatched versatility, while his 194.7 all-purpose yards per game ranked second across all of Divis...

  Dr. Russell K. Carpenter '82, age 71, passed away on 20 April 2026 in San Francisco, California. Russell graduated from Shenandoah High School in Sarahsville, Ohio, and earned two bachelor’s degrees from Malone College. He settled in San Francisco, California, where he obtained a master’s degree from San Francisco State University and a Doctor of Education degree from University of San Francisco. Russell authored Chronicles of King Curtis: The Triumphs, Travails, and Tragedy of a True Soul Legend, published in 2004 and recognized by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. He found great joy in supporting his favorite sports teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the San Francisco Giants. He also enjoyed exploring and relaxing out in nature with his loved ones, as well as playing and appreciating jazz and blues music. Our prayers are with Russell's friends and family, that God would comfort them during this time and bring them peace. For the full obituary link, click here . 

Growing up as an Iowan Quaker, Deborah “Debbie” Meredith Fath ‘76 knew she wanted to attend a small Christian school. She flew from Iowa to Ohio for a Malone campus visit, which quickly confirmed that this was the place she needed to continue her studies. Deborah was one of the few out of state students who started in the fall of 1972. “Malone was a good place for me,” she recalled. “The faculty had a profound impact on my life.” Part of this impact was shaping a focus in Deborah to pursue God’s work–a journey that led her to Goshen College for a semester to participate in their international service program. It was here that she met her husband Steven, and after marrying they soon found themselves serving as full-time missionaries training and equipping church leaders in the Bolivian rainforest. Their international service ended in 1986, but the Faths did not stop caring, praying, or seeking to serve the global church. Decades later, another door opened for them to serve intercultural...

  Kirk Greaves '08 was recently featured in the Louisville Neighbor  for his commitment and service to the Stark County community. Kirk has been a lifelong Stark County resident and has spent his career working with multiple community-forward organizations including the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities and the Hartville MarketPlace. Kirk is now back serving his alma mater, Malone University, as a Major Gifts Officer.  Kirk truly lives out the mission of Malone to impact the church, community, and world at a professional and personal level. He loves the Louisville community, where he has been a resident for almost two decades, and has served on the Security and Logistics Committee as part of Canton's Chamber of Commerce.  Congratulations to Kirk for this recognition on his Christ-centered approach to community! To read about Kirk's life and community involvement, click here .

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!