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...