UC vs. UNC in 2013 Belk Bowl

If you’re planning on watching the University of Cincinnati take on the University of North Carolina in the 2013 Belk Bowl on Dec. 28, consider cheering on the ‘cats with fellow alumni in your city! The University of Cincinnati Alumni Association has several game watches scheduled in cities across the country. Check the list below for information on your city’s game watch. If your city is not featured below and you’re interested in organizing a game watch, please contact Allison Hoehn at the UC Alumni Association.

• Boston Network:  Dan Fonovic, The Baseball Tavern
  1270 Boylston St., Boston, MA
• Columbus Network: Mark Hale, Gresso’s German Village
  961 S High Street Columbus, OH

• Dayton Network: Dennis Hole, Dayton Beer Company
  912 East Dorthy Lane Kettering, OH

• Dallas Network: Mark Schmitmeyer, The Nodding Donkey Kitchen & Sports Saloon
  5600 SMU Boulevard, Suite 120 Dallas, TX
• Denver Network:  John Messiter, Stoney's Bar & Grill
  1111 Lincoln Street, Denver, CO 

• Miami Network: Sandra Van Buskirk, Skyline Chili
  2834 North University Sunrise, FL

• Phoenix Network: Brian Moore, Spoke and Wheel Tavern and Eatery
  8525 N. Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ

Bearcat Hangouts Featured in Summer Newsletter

Inflatable Bearcat outside of O'Leary's in
Chicago before a UC game watch

As football season nears, the summer edition of the UC Where You Are newsletter featured 'Bearcat Hangouts' in Columbus, Washington, D.C., and Chicago. These hangouts provide Bearcats fans with an opportunity to gather with other alumni outside of Cincinnati and cheer on the 'Cats during various sporting events.

Other stories in the summer edition included a story about an alumnus who generated millions of views to his freelance video, a profile of an alumnus who started SparkPeople.com, details about the second leg of the #HottestCollegeinAmerica tour, and a story about a recent graduate's UC experience and new career.

If you didn't receive the newsletter via e-mail, check out the full issue online and then update your contact information to ensure you receive the latest version in your inbox every few months.

If you have an idea for the next edition, or know an alum to spotlight, Tweet us at @UofCincyAlumni, comment below or send us an e-mail to alumni.association@uc.edu.

‘Bearcat Hangouts’: Bringing Alumni Together in Your City

Say you live in the Chicago area — long-time resident or newly relocated. You love watching your Bearcats, ideally with other UC alums. What’s a Chicagolander to do?

2010 UC vs. Fresno State game watch at O'Leary's in Chicago

That’s an easy answer:  Get to O’Leary’s in the River North area. It’s been Chicago’s Bearcat Bar since the fall of 2004. Alumni network leader Dave Watkins, A&S ’92, happened to be dining there and started chatting with the owner because he needed a venue for his upcoming UC-XU Crosstown Shootout game-watch.

“Official” Bearcat hangouts like O’Leary’s act like glue for alums in cities with UC Alumni Association-coordinated networks.

“Everyone knows to head to O’Leary’s and they’ll find other Bearcats watching the UC games,” Watkins said. “And it isn’t just about sports — it’s great to just socialize with someone who can relate to going to UC.”

The Washington D.C. counterpart to O’Leary’s is Penn Quarter Sports Tavern. A couple years ago, Adam Thurn and a friend wanted a place to watch Bearcats games and looked near a metro stop, since traffic and parking can be problems in D.C.  Penn Quarter fit the bill, and it has hosted eight football and three basketball game-watch parties, plus a Bearcats Happy Hour, in the past year.

Inflatable Bearcat in front of O'Leary's

“Having a place everyone knows about, and which doesn’t vary from week to week, simplifies our planning and provides continuity for alumni here,” said Thurn, CEAS ’10, who helps lead the D.C. network.

In Columbus, Bearcats gather at Gresso’s, whose owner works closely with the local UC group, even providing menus with dishes renamed with a Bearcats theme. That key ingredient — an interested, hands-on owner who can spot new business potential — is crucial in setting up a “Bearcat hangout.”

“You need to find an owner who is actively engaged in day-to-day operations, because it’s easier to get the support you need right away without going through a middleman,” said Andrew Maurer, CEAS ’09, of Columbus.

Building such a relationship with the owner and management benefits everyone involved.

“We generate a lot of money for them, so the people at O’Leary’s have been great to us,” Watkins said. “They’ll use Montgomery Inn sauce on their pulled pork sandwich and discount it for us a couple times a year. If I provide the Skyline, they’ll provide the fixings for coneys. One of their bartenders has even concocted a ‘Bearcat Shot.’”

Young Bearcats fan at Gresso's

Veteran network leaders feel that establishing, promoting and cultivating a “Bearcat hangout” is a necessity in growing a vital alumni network.

“The hangouts make it much easier for those who are just getting involved,” said Columbus’ Shaun Simpson, Bus ’00. “Sporting events provide a common bond which makes it easier to engage with each other and grow the group.”

For alumni in other cities looking to develop a “home base” for alumni activities, the Chicago, Washington and Columbus network leaders suggest a simple, two-step process:

1. Find the right combination of an accessible location and an enthusiastic owner who sees the value of working with you. It also helps if the venue has private areas that can host closed events.
2. Once you find such a place, stay with it. Promote it virally, via social media and other channels in the city. And at events, make it look like a Bearcat hangout as much as possible.

“It’s been the single most important thing we’ve done to grow our Chicago network,” Watkins said. “Whether they’re regulars here, they have moved away but are back in town visiting, or they’re just passing through, alums love having a place to watch the game with other UC people and feel at home. One told me, ‘It’s like Homecoming without the parade!’”

Want to start up a “Bearcat hangout” in your city? Contact Sam Walston at Sam.Walston@uc.edu or 513-556-4404.

What's your favorite "Bearcat hangout"? Let us know with a comment below!

Watch the Bearcats vs. Xavier in the Crosstown Classic with Alumni Where YOU Are

On Wednesday, Dec. 19, the University of Cincinnati Men's Basketball Team will play Xavier University in the Crosstown Classic. If you won't be in town for the game, there's a good chance a group of UC alumni are hosting a game watch nearby!

Check out the list below to see where you can watch the game with other alumni in your area. If your city or region is not featured below and you're interested in organizing a game-watch, please contact Sam Walston at the UC Alumni Association.

Charlotte
Chicago
Central Ohio
Denver
Detroit
Indianapolis
Jacksonville
Las Vegas
Miami
Milwaukee
Nashville
Twin Cities
NYC
Phoenix
Raleigh-Durham
Richmond/Tidewater
St. Louis
San Diego
San Francisco 
Tampa
Washington DC

What do you think the final score will be? Guess by commenting below!

UC Alumni Give Thanks: Alumna Reflects on Non-Traditional College Experience

Tamara Jones and her family show their Bearcat spirit

Many UC alumni are thankful for their UC education and experience. Follow along with this series through November (also known as the thankful month) as UC alumni give thanks to UC. If you would like to share your story and show your appreciation for the university, please e-mail proudlycincinnati@uc.edu. 

Tamara Jones received her associate's degree from UCBA (Formerly RWC) in 1992 as a full time student and her Bachelor's Degree as a part-time student from CECE in 2000. Jones and her family reside in Columbus, Ohio.

Why are you thankful for your UC experience?
Many UC professors helped shape my world view and every one of them taught me life lessons far beyond what could be gleaned from textbooks and classroom lectures. The diversity of my UC classmates made the experience truly unforgettable -- from the days at Ray's Place to the many evenings and weekends spent in Clifton, I enjoyed a fabulous, albeit non-traditional, college experience. Being a Bearcat is something I am truly proud and thankful to acknowledge as an important part of my life past, present and future.
 
How has your UC education helped you get where you are today?
In addition to a terrific education and co-op experience, I also gained the confidence needed to pursue every challenge as an opportunity. That has served me well as I have grown throughout my career tackling every project and assignment as one where I could uniquely make a positive difference.  The high standards set for me by the best professors prepared me for a career in the corporate world far beyond what I could have imagined while at UC.
 
What’s your favorite UC memory?
While I have many fond memories of my years on campus, I'd have to say my favorite UC memory is of cheering on the men's basketball team during the Huggins' era.  There was no greater excitement and energy than from the sold out capacity crowds in "Shoemaker Center" from the official start of Midnight Madness every fall through the tournament runs in March. I still love UC basketball and have enjoyed seeing Coach Cronin bring the support and excitement back to the program.
 
As for a favorite classroom memory, I'd have to say any communications class taught by Lisa-Marie Luccioni combined practicality and technicality together in teaching students how to apply the classroom to real world situations. Classes taught by Victoria Hammer (retired) were also memorable for providing a model for principle-based decision-making in business.
 
Why are you Proudly Cincinnati?
I am Proudly Cincinnati and an ambassador to all who will listen about my affinity for the university. UC is a terrific school and it always feels like I've come home when I am able to return to campus. The students, the faculty and the campus are second to none. While I have long joked that UC stands for "under construction" as it seems to be in a constant state of renovation, I also think that shows a relentless pursuit to never stop improving and making things better for generations to come, a commitment that makes me to proud to be a part of such a wonderful community dedicated to academic excellence.

Why are you thankful for UC? Share by commenting below!

Join UC Alumni Nationwide As We ‘Light The Night’ to Fight Cancer

Photo courtesy of  http://www.lightthenight.org

We learned as UC students that helping others is part of what Bearcats do.  It’s even better when we can do that together as alumni.  The upcoming Light the Night Walk for cancer is a great way to do both — an emotionally rewarding experience for everyone who joins the cause, and a tangible way to help others.  

This fall, the UC Alumni Association continues its partnership with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) by offering important this community service opportunity in 14 cities across the U.S.  The LLS stages “Light The Night” fundraising walks each year, and you can join teams of UC alumni united as “Champions for Cures” to fight blood cancer — leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma.

Helping LLS also strengthens UC.  This year, LLS will fund four cancer-fighting research grants at UC, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and Hoxworth Blood Center, totaling about $2 million over the life of the grants.

Please click on a city/region near you below to learn more and participate. All walks will take place in the evening hours, with specific times and meeting locations to be provided after registration.

Boston, MA – October 11

Charlotte, NC – September 29

Chicago, IL – October 20

Cincinnati, OH – October 11

Cleveland, OH – October 13

Columbus, OH – October 27

Denver, CO – September 27

Indianapolis, IN – October 13

Jacksonville, FL – November 1

Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN – September 23

Phoenix, AZ – November 10

Plano, TX – October 20

South Florida (Boca Raton) – November 10

Tampa, FL – November 10

Thank you for volunteering for this great cause!

Laurence Jones III, Bus ’00

President, UC Alumni Association Board of Governors

Bloom’s Network Legacy: Three Decades of Connecting Alums

Jon Bloom, A&S ’81, Bus ’87, led alumni networks in
 south Florida and central Ohio for nearly 30 years.

You never know what unforeseen causes and circumstances will greatly influence your life’s path, and then affect the lives of others.

Take Jon Bloom, for example. At the time he was exploring his options upon finishing work for his second UC degree in 1983, the university’s Career Development Center was serving as a quasi-feeder for Florida’s Miami Herald newspaper, of all places. Accepting their job offer and heading south, Bloom began a varied business career as well as nearly 30 years as a leader within the UC Alumni Association’s nationwide alumni chapter (now networks) program.

“Once I got down there, I found that the newspaper’s advertising department was filled with UC alumni because of the UC Career Development connection,” Jon recalled. “There were probably a dozen of us there. I hadn’t known them at UC — most were a few years ahead of me.”

One of them was Tim Barngrover, who had been coordinating some UC alumni events in the area. Bloom attended a few that first year before Barngrover relocated, at which time Bloom essentially succeeded him as the de facto chapter leader for the area from Miami north through Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale and the Treasure Coast — about 2,000 UC alums in all.

“I found that we had a lot of people in the area, but events were sporadic so they weren’t very well attended. I was able to get more consistency on the calendar — alums could count on a certain event every spring and fall, and within a few years we were drawing up to 100 people per event.”

Despite living away from Cincinnati, Jon has been
a fixture in the UC Alumni Band’s annual participation
in the Homecoming Parade.

In 1994, Bloom and his wife moved to Columbus, Ohio, which had triple the number of UC alumni. Not surprisingly, Jon sought out alumni volunteer opportunities there as well, and in the years that followed, he represented the UC Alumni Association at such events as game-watches, receptions, and admissions fairs for prospective students.

Student Experiences Shape Alumni Attitudes
As he transitions away from a network leadership role this year, Bloom reflects on UC’s past and the good times awaiting future alumni, thanks largely to an evolving culture shift he’s seen in recent years.

“One of our biggest challenges is that many students, at least in my day, didn’t go to UC as their destination of choice — they went there because they had to because of finances or proximity, not because they wanted to,” he said. “So they may have harbored some resentment toward UC from the start. Many were commuters on campus for only a few hours a day (too much of it spent hunting down parking spots) before heading home or to their jobs, and their attitudes toward the institution weren’t particularly positive. Now these people are 40, 50, 60 years old, and they may not be very excited and enthusiastic as alumni.”

Still, seeking out UC connections as alumni is usually a rewarding endeavor, and Bloom also sees that dynamic diminishing now as UC has become much more of a destination school for today’s students.

“And that is very important,” Jon said. “Now they’re much more likely to be engaged while they’re students, and therefore later in life as alumni. When college becomes a place you want to reach back and connect with, a lot more is possible. At that point, UC isn’t just a ‘past tense’ thing.”

While living in Florida, Jon took his Bearcat passion
wherever he drove. 

Facilitating those connections is what has brought Jon Bloom the most satisfaction over the years.

“A couple of older gentlemen in their 70s or 80s saw each other at a UC Alumni Association picnic in Hollywood, Fla., almost 20 years ago,” he remembered. “These two guys had been great friends and neighbors in elementary school, but one of the families moved away and the boys lost touch. They each went to UC but never knew the other was there. Then after having no contact since they were about 10 or 12 years old, they ran into each other at our alumni event. We got to see them react to seeing each other and re-establish their friendship, all because they each attended UC and then attended the same UCAA event a lifetime later.

“That’s a big part of why we do this.”

Bearcats & Buckeyes: A Match-up Made in Heaven, Part 2

One might think today’s Bearcats vs. Buckeyes NCAA match-up wouldn't be so “sweet” a tradition for couples divided by their opposing alma mater allegiances. But for a few brave souls who have made one of life’s greatest commitments to one of their proclaimed "rivals", today’s battle of the bUCkeyes may actually prove to be – like them – more of a match-up made in heaven.


Today’s exclusive “Sweet Sixteen” blog post series brings you an inside look at how six devoted Bearcat/Buckeye couples are preparing for tonight’s big game and not letting one of the tournament’s most celebrated match-ups come between them. Enjoy their spirited (and sometimes hilarious) responses below. If you’re facing a similar “house-divided” dilemma under your own roof, consider taking their advice before tonight’s big tip-off. As one couple said: "There will be other games."


And of course, at the risk of losing the attention of any Buckeyes reading this post (not to mention spoiling our unbiased credibility)…we must stand committed to our own allegiance and say, “Go Bearcats!”

---

Meet our couples…
Adam (UC) & Melissa (OSU) Kozzin

Zorya (UC) & Lauren (OSU) Kluska

Ryan (UC) & Mary (OSU) Nicley

One a Bearcat, the other a Buckeye…how did you possibly meet, much less fall in love?  

Melissa Kozzin: Adam and I actually met online via JDate.com. We ARE an online success story and will be married 4 years this April!

Although raised by OSU grads, Lauren Kuska attended UC
as an undergrad before attending OSU for Pharmacy school.
No matter the outcome, Thursday’s game is a “win-win” for her.

Zorya Kluska: We met at a mutual set of (Bearcat) friends’ graduation party down on Main St. in 2004 (back when there was some night life). Lauren was back in town (she grew up in Cincinnati) for her summer from pharmacy school at OSU. That, coupled with growing up in a Buckeye household, makes her a Buckeye fan. I was a few years into my career in Cincinnati. Despite overlapping as undergrads at UC for 3 years, both being Greek and frequenting the same establishments (e.g. Uncle Woody's), we never met previously. We were introduced that night and I asked her out, and we've been happily married now for 6 years.

Mary Nicley: My husband and I did not know each other during our college days…probably a good thing! We met at work and dated for several years and almost 10 years later, this September, we have been happily married!  

How are you feeling about Thursday’s big game? Any “parting” words? 



Ryan and Mary Nicley’s Bearcat vs. Buckeye rivalry
 is “exciting and all in good fun.”

Melissa Kozzin: Adam and I have some choice words for the upcoming game on Thursday, but may the best team win!

Zorya Kluska: I'm stoked, but also a little concerned. The last few UC games have been exciting but nail-biters, not leaving a lot of room for error. I really hope the team that played Syracuse shows up (vs. the team that played Louisville in the Big East Championship).

Lauren Kluska: I'm actually kind of dreading it! I grew up a Buckeye fan, raised by Xavier and OSU grads and even followed in many of my family members’ footsteps and attended Pharmacy school there.  I have deep roots at OSU and certainly have Scarlet and Gray in my blood. I also went to UC for 3 years for undergrad.  I attended CCM as a ballet major my first year, and eventually changed my major to pre-pharmacy.  UC is an amazing school with wonderful people.  We have a great core group of friends who are all Bearcat alums, and we tailgate and travel to watch the Bearcats together frequently. 

I am a big Bearcat fan, as long as they are not playing the Bucks, so I am torn. Mix in some OSU-hating Bearcat friends and it gets complicated! Someone told me it is a "win-win" for me, and I really am proud to have both my teams represented in the Sweet 16!

Mary Nicley: I am excited about the game this Thursday. To be quite honest, I follow Ohio State football a lot more closely than I do their basketball team, so I'm not sure how this rivalry is going to play out.  If I had some "parting words" it would be "O-H-I-O" all the way!!!!!!  My husband on the other hand, is a man of few words.  He just says "may the best school win.” 

How do you plan to watch the big game?

Melissa Kozzin: In our respective school’s gear, I’m sure, we plan to be positioned securely to our respective sides of the couch, with a possible bowl of snacks to SHARE in the middle (as a safe divider!)

Zorya Kluska: I was going to try to convince her to watch the game with our Bearcat friends, but she wouldn't bite (Lauren: I was dreading the hating from a certain group of people!). As we have 2 daughters under 4, and they made the game so late (again!) we'll be watching together on our couch (Lauren: and screaming at the TV!)

Mary Nicley: We will most likely just watch the game at home since we have 2 small children…which is fine because sometimes I can get a little loud during the games.  Yet, he always seems to stay calm and cool.  We seem to balance each other out in that area.  

Who do you think will bring home the win?   

Melissa Kozzin: I know that this is for the UC Alumni Association, but I can’t root against my school – GO BUCKS!!!!!

Zorya Kluska: UC of course! 

Lauren Kluska: Hmm probably OSU, but would be thrilled to see UC advance! Should I just plead the 5th on this one??

Mary Nicley: For me, I believe Ohio State will bring home the win and it will probably be in true Ohio State fashion and come down to a nail biter in the last few seconds of the game.  My husband says he knows, not thinks, that UC will bring home the win.  As you can see, it is truly a house divided!  

What advice would you offer to other couples in your “situation?” 

 

Adam and Melissa Kozzin’s advice to other Bearcat/Buckeye couples:
“BREATHE, but have fun! At the end of the day, it’s just a game.”



Melissa Kozzin: BREATHE, but have fun! At the end of the day, it’s just a game. Though one of the teams is going to come out with a loss, you still have each other and that’s what matters…right???

Zorya Kluska: Don't take it too seriously, and make sure someone other than you is a bigger “hater” of your spouse's team (e.g. I have plenty of Buckeye hater friends). It takes a lot of the heat off of you.

Lauren Kluska: Try to support one another! Zorya watches Buckeye games with me and my family, and even cheers!  I root for UC and attend UC games and events.  We try to make it fun, and support the universities that we feel grateful to have been able to have attended.

Mary Nicley: Whether it's OSU playing UC in football or basketball, it can be a sticky situation at times.   But we are always respectful of each other and support each other.  Yet, at the same time, we remind each other frequently who the best team is!

Are you raising your kids as Bearcats or Buckeyes?

Adam and Melissa Kozzin tell us their daughter is a born
and raised Bearckye…50%cat, 50%nut!

Melissa Kozzin: Our daughter is a born and raised Bearckye…50% cat, 50% nut!

Zorya Kluska: We have a 3-year-old, Ava, and an 18-month-old, Faith. Our girls cheer the UC fight song with me every game we watch together, but Lauren's dad has been working on them for Buckeye cheers too. Not too long ago he was trying to get our 3-year-old to say "Go Bucks" and all she would say was "Go BEARCATS!" They must have gone back and forth a dozen times until he gave up. A classic moment!



The Kuskas' daughters dressed to impress in their
“Bearckyes” cheerleading uniforms.



Lauren Kluska: I asked my 18-month-old who would win Thursday and she responded with “Buckeyes!”  Their papa and nana have definitely taught them to be little Buckeyes. They have both UC and OSU cheerleading outfits and they root for both teams!  When they see sports on TV they say, “Buckeyes? Bearcats?”  Our 3-year-old has even started saying "Bearckeyes" Our girls will grow up to be a rare breed of open-minded UC fans that love and root for the Buckeyes!

Mary Nicley: We do have two children…a son who is 7 and a daughter who is 5.   I have probably had more of an influence on them as far as what team "we" or "I" like better.  I have bought them Buckeye jerseys, t-shirts, hats,  etc ever since they were babies. On game days we put on our Buckeye shirts, our Buckeye necklaces and then listen to "Hang on Sloopy" and "Across the Field".  It's kind of a tradition that I started with them.   So, yes, the kids are more Buckeye than they are Bearcat.  We all get along thought and make the most of this divided house.  

All in good fun of course: How difficult is it to love a rival Bearcat/Buckeye during times like this? 



Melissa Kozzin: Honestly not difficult at all. If the Bearcats should pull out the win, there will be no hard feelings. Now, Adam on the other hand…he might have other thoughts!

Zorya & Lauren Kluska: Not difficult at all!

Mary Nicley: It's exciting and the rivalry is all in good fun.  Either way, a great team will win Thursday's game!  But I wouldn't be a true Buckeye if I didn't say "LET'S GO BUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Is tonight's game a win-win for you and your significant other too? Comment below to tell us how you're feeling about tonight's game!

Bearcats & Buckeyes: A Match-Up Made in Heaven, Part 1

One might think today’s Bearcats vs. Buckeyes NCAA match-up wouldn't be so “sweet” a tradition for couples divided by their opposing alma mater allegiances. But for a few brave souls who have made one of life’s greatest commitments to one of their proclaimed "rivals", today’s battle of the bUCkeyes may actually prove to be – like them – more of a match-up made in heaven.

Today’s exclusive “Sweet Sixteen” blog post series brings you an inside look at how six devoted Bearcat/Buckeye couples are preparing for tonight’s big game and not letting one of the tournament’s most celebrated match-ups come between them. Enjoy their spirited (and sometimes hilarious) responses below. If you’re facing a similar “house-divided” dilemma under your own roof, consider taking their advice before tonight’s big tip-off. As one couple said: "There will be other games."

And of course, at the risk of losing the attention of any Buckeyes reading this post (not to mention spoiling our unbiased credibility)…we must stand committed to our own allegiance and say, “Go Bearcats!”

---

Meet our couples...
John (UC) & Barb (OSU) Linser
Ryan (UC) & Lori (OSU) Lumm
Dave (UC) & Julie (OSU) McGinnis

One a Bearcat, the other a Buckeye…how did you possibly meet, much less fall in love?

Ryan and Lori Lumm spent their second date

at an OSU/UC football game.

Dave McGinnis: We met at our then-mutual place of employment, where I rearranged my workload to more closely coincide with hers, by which I mean that I used every flimsy and thinly-veiled excuse at my disposal to visit her office. We’ll celebrate our ninth wedding anniversary on game day.

Barb Linser: We met at the fish pond during a church festival in Zanesville, Ohio I was in the 7th grade and he was in the 9th. We have been married 32 years.

Ryan Lumm: Lori and I met shortly after I moved to Columbus for a new job. We did in fact meet at a bar in downtown Columbus and have been married now for almost 3 years. Our second date was at the OSU/UC football game the last time UC played in Columbus. I got tickets through UC so we were able to sit with fellow Bearcats. As an OSU grad and fan, Lori was outnumbered in our section but she was far from outnumbered in the stadium. Unfortunately for me, OSU won that game but we still had a great time.

How are you feeling about Thursday’s big game? Any “parting” words?

OSU grad Barb Linser with oldest son, Alex,

on his graduation day from UC’s College of Law.

Dave McGinnis: I think it’s going to be close no matter what. It is time that UC assumed its rightful position at the top of Ohio’s collegiate athletics hierarchy. Besides, we have a potentially vicious animal as a mascot. They have a tree. It’s a well known fact that the bearcat’s diet includes fruit, small animals, and TREES. And let’s be honest, there hasn’t been a scary or intimidating tree since “Poltergeist”.

Barb Linser: For my bracket and my UC alum sons, Alex and Sam, I would like UC to win, but a Buckeye win gives me bragging rights so either way I win. My son, Alex, has a JD and a bachelor’s from UC and Sam has a Physics degree from UC and is currently working on his Master’s there.

John Linser: It is OK with me if Barb roots for OSU on Thursday as long as she does it with the full knowledge that it will tear apart the hearts of her three children!

Ryan Lumm: I'm excited about Thursday's game. I've wanted to see UC play OSU in basketball since I was a student. Whenever UC is playing, Lori is always supportive. She owns some UC clothing and has attended several football and basketball games with me including the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, but this game will be different. It will be weird to cheer against each other’s Alma Mater. The only parting words I have for Lori are GO CATS!

How do you plan to watch the big game?

UC grad John Linser with his son, Sam, who followed his

dad to UC and graduated Summa Cum Laude in Physics.

Dave McGinnis: We’ll be watching at home, partly because we have young children and partly to avoid causing any sort of scene we’d later regret.

Barb Linser: From the comfort of my couch.

Ryan Lumm: Due to the late start of the game Lori and I will be watching together at home. I can envision however that she might be watching in one room while I watch in my man cave which is painted in Red and Black. (No she doesn't have an OSU room).

Lori Lumm: I think that we will both wind up watching the game at our house – hopefully in the same room, but perhaps on different couches. However, I will be sporting my Buckeye gear and Ryan will likely be in his Bearcat gear.

Who do you think will bring home the win?

Dave McGinnis: I think UC gets the win in a close and physical game.

Barb Linser: UC.

Ryan Lumm: This will be a tough matchup for the Bearcats but they have been playing great. If they keep up the defensive pressure and hit some open shots I think they stand a really good chance at beating OSU. My prediction is that the Bearcats win a close one.

Lori Lumm: I think it will be a close game. However, I think that OSU will be the victors in this match up. Go Buckeyes!

What advice would you offer to other couples in your “situation?”

Lori Lumm is not too proud a Buckeye to root for

husband Ryan’s alma mater every now and then.

Dave McGinnis: Make sure you hide your spouse’s spirit attire well before game time. Especially those buckeye necklaces they always like to wear. Most hardcore OSU fans won’t even leave the house without those on, so you can easily sabotage their game viewing plans. Also, if you have young kids, make sure you get them new UC t-shirts the day before the game so they’re excited to.

Ryan Lumm: Don’t let the game get too big. It's exciting to have these games but the fan of whichever team loses can't take it personally and the winner can't rub it in (too much). Our allegiances may differ in this game but we would never hold any resentment toward each other based on the outcome...after all there will always be another game.

Lori Lumm: Have fun and don't let it get too serious. Just remember there will always be other games. Also, whoever wins, remember not to rub it in your spouse’s face too much and try to root for their team when they are not playing against your Alma Mater. Ryan is still working on this.

Are you raising your kids as Bearcats or Buckeyes?

Dave McGinnis: That depends on which of us you ask, though I contend that I am winning the war for their collegiate allegiance at this point.

Barb Linser: I already lost that battle, having raised 2 Bearcats and a Ball State Cardinal.

Ryan Lumm: We do not currently have children but have often discussed if they would be raised as Bearcats or Buckeyes. As of now it's yet to be determined, but I'll be doing my best to raise them as Bearcats.....but that won't be easy living in Columbus.

Lori Lumm: We will be raising our future children as part Buckeye and part Bearcat. My parents who are big OSU fans and his, which are strictly Bearcat fans, will be sure of it.

All in good fun of course: How difficult is it to love a rival Bearcat/Buckeye during times like this?

UC grad Dave McGinnis posing with one of his loves,

second to wife and OSU grad, Julie.

Dave McGinnis: I knew of her checkered educational past going into the relationship, so I am fairly well adjusted at this point. I try to remember that we all made questionable decisions at that age. Being a Buckeye is her burden to bear and I love her just the same. I just try to live by a “Proudly Cincinnati” example and work to make sure our children have the tools to make better, more informed choices when they are considering their post-secondary education. :)

Barb Linser: VERY tough, but of course when the going gets tough, the tough get tougher.

Ryan Lumm: It's not difficult at all to love my wife even though she will be my rival on Thursday. Lori has always been supportive of my beloved Bearcats and always cheers them to victory. I am willing to let her have this one game to cheer for her Buckeyes.....because I know if UC wins, she will be cheering them on again in the Elite 8. I wish I could say the same for me but I have not been an OSU fan for longer than I've known Lori and old habits are hard to break, but I'm working on it.

Lori Lumm: It is never difficult to love Ryan even during these situations. And, yes, he is right in saying that even if his Bearcats win I will be rooting for them in the tournament. However, if OSU wins I can only hope that he will root for them. But, I don't think I will be so lucky. At least maybe he will try. As he said, old habits are hard to break.

Is tonight's game a win-win for you and your significant other too? Comment below to tell us how you're feeling about tonight's game!

UC Alumni and Fans Across the Nation Gather to Celebrate the Bearcats in the Sweet 16

The excitement is unparalleled, the anticipation overwhelming, and the rivalry stronger than ever! UC alumni and fans across the country are pumped to cheer their Bearcats on to victory as The University of Cincinnati takes on The Ohio State University in one of the most celebrated college basketball games of the year. But helping make history on such short notice was no small feat for the UC Alumni Association.

Watch this news story (courtesy of WLWT), featuring UCAA's Executive Director Myron Hughes, who explains the effect the quick turnaround has had on the association's ability to quickly plan official Sweet 16 activities for alumni nationwide. 

Speaking of alumni events, if you'll be in Boston for Thursday's game, you won't want to miss the best Bearcat party in Boston! Join your fellow alumni and friends for a pep rally featuring the UC Bearcat Band, cheerleaders, and the Bearcat himself, along with a dinner buffet, all for just $20. Register to reserve your spot now! 

Alumni and fans in other cities are also doing their part to celebrate the Bearcats' appearance in the 2012 NCAA Tournament Sweet 16. Below is the most comprehensive list the UCAA has compiled to date. Check out the UC Where You Are section of the UCAA website for additional Alumni Network activities and also for network leader contact information for your city. And of course, Go Bearcats!

Official UC List of 3/22 Sweet 16 Nationwide Events

Boston
Contact: Sam Walston
Grand Canal (OFFICIAL UC Pre-game Event Location)
57 Canal St.
Boston, MA 02114
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm EST
Paid registration required

Chicago

Contact: David Watkins
O'Leary's Pub
541 N Wells
Chicago, IL 60610
8:30-11:30 pm CST

Cleveland
Contact: Branson Wright
Opus Restaurant
20126 Chagrin Blvd.
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
9:00 pm-12:00 am EST

Columbus
Contact: Stephanie Dodd
Gresso's
961 South High Street
Columbus, OH 43206
8:30 pm-12:00 am EST

Dallas
Contact: Christopher Hunter

BlackFinn
4440 Belt Line Rd.
Addison, TX 75001
8:30 pm-12:00 am EST

Denver
Contact: John Messiter
LoDo's Bar and Grill
1946 Market Street
Denver, CO 80202
7:30-10:30 pm MST

Houston
Contact: Jim Sorg
Champps Americana
1121 Uptown Park Blvd
Houston, TX 77056
8:00-11:00 pm CST

Milwaukee
Contact: Mark Kremer
Buffalo Wild Wings at Bayshore Mall
590 W. Northshore Drive
Glendale, WI 53217
8:30-10:30 pm CST

Nashville
Contact: Amy McNeil
The Tavern
1904 Broadway
Nashville, TN 37203
8:00-11:00 pm CST

New York
Contact: Mj Kong
Phebe's
359 Bowery
New York, NY 10003
8:30 pm-12:00 am EST

San Diego
Contact: Lauren Eckles
East Village Tavern & Bowl
930 Market Street
San Diego, CA 92101
6:30-9:00 pm PST

San Francisco 
Contact: Chad Reid
Grand Oaks Sports Bar in Oakland 
736 Washington Street
Oakland, CA 94607
6:45-9:00 pm PST

St. Louis
Contact: Alan Robbins
Buffalo Wild Wings
12653 Olive Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63141
8:00-11:00 pm CST

Tampa Bay
Contact: Matt Carlin
Brick House Tavern & Tap
1102 North Dale Mabry Highway
Tampa, FL 33607
9:30-11:30 pm EST

Washington DC

Contact: Tim Lolli

Penn Quarter Sports Tavern
639 Indiana Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20004
8:00 pm-1:00 am EST

Questions? Please contact the UC Alumni Association at 1-877-4-UCALUM toll-free.


Where will you be watching the game on Thursday? Let us know where you'll be "Representing the C" by commenting below!

Nominate an Outstanding UC Alum

UC Alumni Awards

Is there an alum you know who has made significant achievements in their professional career, has been extensively involved in the university and the community or has demonstrated remarkable leadership abilities? Now is your chance to nominate them for a University of Cincinnati Alumni Award! Nominations will close January 31, 2012. Awards will be presented at the 2012 UC Distinguished Alumni Celebration on June 14, 2012.

“The Distinguished Alumni Celebration gives UC the opportunity to formally recognize our most outstanding alumni for their professional accomplishments and exceptional commitment to the university and in many cases, to the world,” said UC Alumni Association Executive Director, Myron Hughes. “Since 1956, the UCAA has extended awards to more than 130 alumni.”

Please consider nominating a fellow alum for one of the following awards: 

The William Howard Taft Medal Award
This award is given to an alumnus of the University of Cincinnati solely on the basis of notable achievement in his or her field. The Taft Medal differs from the Alumni Distinguished Service Award in that it is not restricted to service to the university. The award is in honor and memory of Dr. William Howard Taft, LLB 1925, twenty-seventh president of the United States.

2011 UC Alumni Award Recipients (from left) Drew E. McKenzie,
Dr. P. Eric Abercrumbie, Dr. Marilyn A. Edmondson,
Richard G. Foley,David Watkins, and Dr. J. Richard Wuest

The Jeffrey Hurwitz Young Alumni Outstanding Achievement Award
This award is given to a UC graduate, 35 years of age or younger, on the basis of significant professional achievement in his or her field of endeavor, and continued service and involvement with the university and community. This award is in honor and memory of Jeffrey Hurwitz, BBA '72, MBA '73, former president of the UC Alumni Association.

Alumni Distinguished Service Award
Dedicated alumni who, through their service, make an outstanding contribution to their university are usually over-modest, always unpaid, and unthinking of reward. Nonetheless, recognition is important, for an action that begins by aiding the advancement of a university ends in the improvements of the social structure in which we live. The UC Alumni Association issues the Alumni Distinguished Service Awards to provide that recognition for those who have faithfully rendered outstanding service to the University of Cincinnati.

The UC Alumni Association Mosaic Award
The UC Alumni Association’s Mosaic Award is presented to an alumnus who has demonstrated leadership while enhancing our shared community through cultivating collaboration, fostering inclusiveness, championing the cause of the underrepresented, and promoting greater equity and opportunity for others.

Summer Send-Off Welcomes Newest Central Ohio Bearcats

Increasing numbers of Columbus high school grads are heading down I-71 to Cincinnati for a great college education. Many members of the newest class recently participated in the largest UC Summer Sendoff ever in Central Ohio.

The August 24 Summer Send-off brought together 130 incoming freshmen and parents from the Columbus area, joining about 15 Central Ohio alumni who formally welcomed them to the UC family just weeks before their official campus move-in. The event was held at the Dublin headquarters of Ashland, Inc.

Besides greeting old and new friends among their Columbus-area peers, students and parents heard from UC Alumni Association Executive Director Myron Hughes, Proudly Cincinnati Columbus Campaign members Scott Simmers and Bob Mayer, and current UC Student Body Vice President Michael Linger. The common message: You made a great college choice, there’s a long and strong connection between UC and Central Ohio, and we’re thrilled to welcome you to the Bearcat family.

Pizza and ice cream was followed by a raffle, where four lucky freshmen won $250 gift cards to the UC Bookstores and another received a UC hat signed by Football Coach Butch Jones.

About 6,000 alumni live and work in Central Ohio, making it one of the largest concentrations of Bearcats anywhere outside of Cincinnati. The regional alumni network is one of the UC Alumni Association’s most active in the U.S.

Columbus Golf Outing Raises $12,000

Golfers are rarely satisfied. We want to hit the ball a little straighter, a little longer, or a lot closer to the pin. We always come away thinking, "If only I could have..." Well, on Monday, June 27, for one afternoon, we had it all … All the golf, all the Cincinnati, and all the UC we could ask for!

On that day, 80+ UC alumni and friends participated in the third annual Central Ohio Regional Alumni Network Golf Outing at Riviera Golf Club in Dublin and “got it all,” no matter what our scorecards showed. How else can you describe the opportunity to spend a beautiful day on the golf course enjoying old and new UC friends, meeting some Bearcat athletics VIPs, and supporting student scholarships in the process?

The Columbus-area Bearcats got acquainted with UC football coach Butch Jones and women’s basketball coach Jamelle Elliott, as well as former Bearcat basketball greats Tony Yates, Roland West and George Wilson, plus former Pittsburgh Steelers Pro Bowl offensive lineman John Jackson (a Cincinnati native).

The event was sponsored by Kroger and food was provided by Skyline Chili, Montgomery Inn and Graeter’s. That’s right — it was like Taste of Cincinnati!

The day included both silent and live auctions, a raffle and door prizes galore as everyone went home a winner!

Most importantly, the event raised about $12,000, which was split between UCATS and the Central Ohio Regional Alumni Network Scholarship fund, which helps incoming UC freshmen from the Columbus area.

Thanks to all who attended and contributed, including my fellow Columbus Regional Committee members Scott Simmers, Chet Chaney, Dave Tenwick, Mark Inzetta and Bob Mayer. Special thanks to Scott, who is quickly becoming known as Mr. Bearcat Golf, for all of his hard work!

Looking ahead, we’re preparing for our annual Summer Sendoff event in late August, hosted by Ashland Inc.; each of the last two years we’ve drawn about 125 freshmen-to-be and their families. And of course the regional alumni network will be organizing game-watches as the Bearcats kick off their 2011 football season.

Chris A. Pore, College of Engineering ’77

UC Alumni Recruitment Team Wants You!

How will I pay for college? What is it like living in Cincinnati?  Where can I get a job after I earn a degree?

High school juniors and seniors across the country are asking themselves these questions and UC alumni are helping them find answers through the University of Cincinnati Alumni Recruitment Team (UCART)!

For years, alumni have volunteered to work with the Office of Admissions to represent UC at various college fairs and recruitment programs all over the country through UCART. This year, 9 UCART members attended over 30 college fairs in Chicago, St. Louis, Southeast Michigan, and Columbus to speak with parents and students about what UC has to offer.

This year, a UCART website and on-line training program were developed, making it easy for alumni across the country to complete the training when it was convenient for them, regardless of where they live or their ability to come back to campus.

Jeff Hopkins ’88 volunteered for the first time this year in Chicago “to direct his pride in and enthusiasm for UC into something that will benefit both UC and those who choose to attend.” Jay Wright has volunteered over the last 5 years in Detroit, Michigan because he says, “It is an unselfish way to pay UC back for all the benefits we received. Second, it is a way to renew your ties to the University and all the other alumni in your area.”

When asked why he continues to serve as a UCART member, Alan Robbins ’76 who enjoys volunteering along with his wife Marla, who is also a UC alumna, for 3 years in St. Louis said, “It’s about giving back and wanting to see the University create a foothold in this city. St. Louis students travel more than 5 hours to attend other colleges and universities, so why not the University of Cincinnati with its broad offerings and excellent programs?”

As a UCART representative, you are able to truly help students who are in the midst of making a decision that will help shape their life. Jon Bloom ‘81 volunteers in Columbus, OH and said, “I absolutely encourage other alumni to get involved in UCART. It’s a great way to give back to the University and I really enjoy it. Many of the students I meet are incredibly bright, successful and articulate. UC would be a better place if many of those students attended.”

The impact our alumni have on the lives of students across the country is incredible! A UCART member in the north and west suburbs of Chicago for eight years, Tom Vick ’69, recalls a time when someone came up to him at a gathering and said, “I know you don’t remember me, but I would really like to thank you for directing my daughter to consider architecture at UC.” The daughter was finishing her first co-op experience and loving her time at UC.

Greg Hopton ’82 finds connecting with high school students in the Detroit Metro to be a very rewarding part of the experience. Greg has had success in reaching out to other parents who graduated from UC and finding that their children were considering becoming Bearcats also.

Becoming a UCART member is a no cost, no obligation way to give back to your university and is the perfect opportunity for young alumni to get involved in their communities.

If you'd like to get involved, please contact Shayna Royal, Admissions Officer or call her at 513-556-2308.  Find additional information about the UCART program here: www.admissions.uc.edu/ucart/interestform.

Get your clubs ready for the Columbus Golf Outing!

Outside of the Cincinnati area, UC alumni living in the same city share a strong common bond. If we know each other already, we immediately feel that sense of camaraderie. If we meet and learn each other’s college lineage by accident, we’re apt to exclaim, “Hey, you’re a Bearcat, too? Great!” And maybe we even add the trademark “Ooooooohhhhhh, U-C!!!” with the signature “UC” arm gesture!

I think that feeling of brotherhood may be even stronger here in Columbus. Even though we’re less than 100 miles up I-71 from campus, sometimes it can feel like we’re on another planet. Since we’re surrounded by the alumni and influence of another university, it’s extra fun and rewarding to connect with fellow Bearcats among all the Buckeyes. After all, we know where we came from, we know how much our UC experience means in our lives, we know how much UC has advanced in recent years, so we are very Proudly Cincinnati.

There are more than 6,700 UC alumni in central Ohio, and our activity level is rising along with the fortunes of our alma mater. Greater Columbus annually sends an increasing number of students to UC (click here to see a photo album of the most recent Senior Sendoff event, where alums give our area’s UC freshmen-to-be a warm welcome to the UC family). And each year, one outstanding high school senior receives scholarship aid from the Central Ohio Regional Alumni Network to attend UC.

That scholarship fund, as well as UC Athletics, will benefit from our third annual Central Ohio Regional Network Golf Outing coming up on Monday, June 27, at the Riviera Golf Club in Dublin. In the first two years of the golf outing, we have raised about $20,000 for the Central Ohio Regional Alumni Network Scholarship Fund and UC Athletics.

If you like to be with other Bearcats … If you like to play golf and support a great cause … If you want to meet our special guests, including UC Football Coach Butch Jones, former NCAA and Olympic champion George Wilson and his UC teammate, former basketball coach Tony Yates … Then please plan to join us. Click here for more details.

And if you want to get more involved in UC Alumni Association or Proudly Cincinnati Campaign activities in the Columbus area, please contact me at besturm@columbus.rr.com or by phone – work 614-228-1101 or home 614-985-1128. We’re in the midst of our 1819 National Face-Off competition right now, so if you’re not currently supporting UC — even in a small way — this is a great opportunity to pitch in!

- Contributed by Brad Sturm, A&S '82