Community Service Projects Bring UC Alums Together

When you think of UC alumni events in cities across the country, the first image might be a restaurant or bar with dozens of alums hanging out to watch the Bearcats basketball or football team in a big game on the big screen.

While that will always be a staple of UC camaraderie in the UC Alumni Association’s regional alumni networks, there is a concerted effort by UCAA and the alumni in those cities to diversify their activities and, in the process, bring more alumni into the network circle. Two recent examples took place in Dayton, Ohio, and Washington D.C.

 

Dennis Hole, A&S ’06, contacted a Dayton-area Toys for Tots drive and worked with Pete Hilgeman, Bus ’09, who offered his Dayton Beer Company microbrewery as a collection point. Hilgeman’s establishment was also the site for December’s UC-Xavier Crosstown Classic watch-party on Dec. 14. The event was communicated via email and social media. A partnership with Skyline Chili promised “Bring a toy, get a free cheese coney.” Even when the Dayton Beer Company was not hosting a UC event, the collection box filled up repeatedly during the campaign.

“We were surprised at the quality of the toys — how generous people were,” Hole said of the ongoing response. “This sort of initiative appeals to alumni who might not gravitate toward the purely sports-related events. This has really opened up people’s minds to what can be done.”

A different kind of community service event took place right across the Potomac from Washington on the same day as the Crosstown Classic. That morning, 24 UC alumni and family members met at Arlington National Cemetery to participate in the annual Wreaths Across America Day, when grateful and reflective citizens place wreaths on the graves of veterans to remember and honor their service and sacrifice.

“I had done this previously with a fraternity brother of mine and thought it was an amazing event,” said D.C. network leader Adam Thurn, CEAS ’10. “It’s extremely powerful and moving, and offers a firsthand look at the losses sustained to ensure our freedoms. Many of the volunteers brought their children and I’m sure were

able to have a teaching moment with them.”

“I heard many of the participants say they were happy to see our D.C. alumni network do something like this,” Thurn said. “We want to continue providing different options for becoming engaged with the UC Alumni Association."

Volunteer Network Leaders Help Alumni Nationally Stay Connected

The attendees of the 2013 Network Leaders
Conference took a backstage tour of CCM
during their Homecoming Weekend visit to campus.

Washington D.C. is 402 miles east of the University of Cincinnati’s Clifton campus. Jacksonville, Fla., is 628 miles south; San Francisco, Calif., 2,040 miles west.

Distance didn’t stop Adam Thurn, CEAS ’10; Kimberly Marshall, Bus ’83; and Chad Reid, A&S ’09, ’10, respectively, from returning to UC for Homecoming the middle weekend of October. They came for two reasons:  1) They share a strong desire to stay closely connected with their university;  2)  More importantly, they want to do the same for their fellow alumni who live with them in those distant cities.

Thurn, Marshall and Reid were three of 25 alumni who converged on the Myers Alumni Center for the UC Alumni Association’s annual Network Leaders Conference. They swapped stories, shared best practices, and collectively brainstormed about how to better engage the UC alumni in the 31 U.S. cities with UCAA regional alumni networks.

“Half of our nearly 270,000 alumni live outside Greater Cincinnati, whether it’s one state over, across the country or on the other side of the world,” said Sam Walston, CECH ’09, the UCAA program director who oversees national and international alumni outreach. “We rely on these volunteer network leaders to be our ambassadors and key resources for the thousands of alums who live in their areas.”

As the term “network” implies, the volunteers got involved with the UC Alumni Association because they either “knew somebody,” or they wanted to.

“I had gone to a UC-Northern Illinois football game with long-time network leader Dave Watkins on a visit to Chicago years ago,” recalled Markus Kremer, CEAS ’92. “When I later moved to Chicago, I got involved with the network. Then when I moved to Milwaukee, I began to coordinate that network on my own.”

Carmen Pescatrice, A&S ’11, recently moved to Cleveland. “I was looking to network with UC people in the Cleveland area to reignite the Bearcat bonds and develop my career,” he said. “When I learned there was a revitalized alumni network, I was eager to join and was appointed social chair.

“It’s a great way to make contacts and help others do the same while reminiscing about our collegiate experiences. The Bearcat network is powerful and has amazing opportunities.”

Cleveland’s alumni network was rejuvenated by a visit from UC President Santa Ono’s #HottestCollegeinAmerica Tour earlier this year. The turnout was tremendous, the message about today’s UC was exciting, and the alums in attendance wanted to keep the energy going. The network is the way to do that. Similar results are occurring wherever Ono’s tour makes a stop.

A key takeaway from each Network Leaders Conference is the need for diverse programming. While there will always be widespread interest in attending games when the Bearcats come to town or getting together for game-watches in local “Bearcat hangouts,” not everyone is into sports. Consequently, UC alums have come together this year for such events as a UC-themed picnic in Dallas, a concert featuring CCM alumna Kathleen Battle in Baltimore, a wine-tasting in Minneapolis, and a tour of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, just to name a few.

The bottom line: If you live in or near a city with a UCAA regional alumni network, there are hundreds or even thousands of Bearcats around you. Many of them get together for various kinds of activities while strengthening their UC connections. And a lot of it probably originated with your network volunteers and their Homecoming return to campus.

Click here to see what’s going on in your area, and to volunteer with your area network. If your city isn’t listed, or if you want to learn more about getting involved, contact Sam Walston at 513-556-4404, 877-4-UCALUM toll-free, or Sam.Walston@uc.edu.

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.

Stepping Up for Future Generations

Growing tuition fees. A troubling job market. Mounting student loan debt. These are the realities of higher education, which can play a significant role in the decisions young adults make when deciding how to pursue their education.

Those of us who graduated decades ago didn't face these same challenges. Higher education was, at that time, more attainable. More affordable. The job market was more stable. In short: we were lucky.

Today, we cannot be complacent about the extreme challenges college students face. For those of us who have experienced how a college education can put you on the trajectory to success, we have a responsibility to empower future generations by giving them access to the same opportunities we had.

Universities are sources of innovation. Universities are where entrepreneurial spirits are encouraged, groundbreaking findings are discovered, minds are opened and critical thinking skills are honed.

As we experience our own successes, we must remember to invest in the future through higher education. When we entrust funds to a center of learning we provide resources so that the next generation can pick up the baton and run with it. We are setting the stage for even greater accomplishments.

This is a theme I've called upon many times in the last several years, as I've served as the Washington, D.C. campaign committee chair for the University of Cincinnati’s billion-dollar Proudly Cincinnati campaign. As a 1982 graduate of the university’s College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning (DAAP), I’m proud of UC as an institution and as the place that helped me shape my future. I surely wouldn't be where I am today were it not for UC.

And I am not alone. I've had the opportunity to engage with hundreds of UC alumni in the region, and I've realized we have one thing in common: deep respect for our alma mater. In sparking those fond memories of our formative college years, it became clear for many, the time to give back is now.

When talking with donors who have generously contributed to the University of Cincinnati, it is obvious they see the bigger picture. A gift to a great university makes it possible for students to succeed and helps the university attract and retain the best teaching talent. Higher education is a cause that undoubtedly deserves our support.

With the help of my fellow D.C.-based alumni, the University of Cincinnati recently reached its billion-dollar fundraising goal. These donations will accelerate the university’s transformation into a world-class institution. I am proud of what the university has accomplished and what I and my compatriots have been able to contribute. We believe in the work that is happening on the campus and beyond.

While the system of higher education has issues that need to be overcome, it is not in our best interests to stand idle. So I would challenge all readers of this post to do what many UC grads have done. Take up the responsibility to support your alma mater. Heed the call to support the university that supported you in your most formative adult years. You may not even fathom what your investment can make possible.

About the Author

DAAP Alumnus Todd DeGarmo

Todd DeGarmo is a University of Cincinnati alumnus (DAAP ’82) and served as the Proudly Cincinnati Washington, D.C. Campaign Committee Chair. He has been a UC Foundation Trustee since 2008. DeGarmo is the principal and CEO of STUDIOS Architecture, an international design practice recognized for innovation in both buildings and interiors.

‘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!

Architecture Alum Featured for Bringing UC to D.C.

DAAP alum Todd DeGarmo is recognized by President
Santa Ono for his role in bringing UC to D.C. during the
Proudly Cincinnati campaign.

Following UC's billion-dollar milestone, the March edition of the UC Where You Are Newsletter featured Todd DeGarmo - a DAAP alumnus who has been instrumental in bringing the Proudly Cincinnati campaign to Washington D.C. Since the start of the campaign in 2005, DeGarmo and his colleagues have twice surpassed their regional campaign goals, first moving past $8 million, and then $10 million a short time later.

Other stories in the March edition include a preview of President Ono's #hottestcollegeinAmerica tour, information about UC's new mobile apps, details about President Santa Ono's goal to reach 100,000 donors by June 30, 2013, and a story about an alumnus who is the general manager at The Drake Hotel in Chicago.

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.

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!

There’s No Place like Home: Cincinnati Meets DC and Atlanta

The Bearcat “Bagstreet Boys”, who took
home the fall 2011 league trophy, pose with
other UC alums in the Atlanta cornhole
league. Left to right: Jose Barratt
(University of Florida), Ethan Dunkle,
Troy Easterday, Jeff Brawand
(Cornhole ATL Founder), Sarang Patel,
Stephen Young, Richard Bodner
and Matt Hoyng. 

For Jeff Brawand (Business ‘07) and Caroline Page (Allied Health Sciences ‘09), the savory tastes of home to counter their Cincinnati cravings were simple: kickball and cornhole. Just a few years after their first jobs landed them in Washington D.C. and Atlanta, respectively, Caroline and Jeff had remarkably similar ideas for how to reconnect with their alma mater despite the distance between them.

Alum Jeff Brawand founded the first
cornhole league in Atlanta, satisfying
his and many other native Cincinnatians’
craving for a familiar taste of home. 

Jeff, who missed the Bearcat tailgating scene in the Lindner College of Business parking lot, guessed he wasn’t the only alum in Atlanta with the same longing for a good game of cornhole. So he decided to resurrect the lost tradition among his fellow Cincinnati Atlantans. He worked alongside two fellow Bearcats to form the very first Atlanta cornhole league in the city, an idea that would catch on and spawn at least two other recreational leagues across Atlanta.

D.C. Bearcats represent Cincinnati
in the “D.C. Thunder Spring League”
at the National Mall. Front: Michal Hammond;
Back (left to right): Tim Lolli, Sean Huff,
Adam Thurn, Caroline Page, Todd Damren

“Even in the heart of SEC country, we definitely represent UC well down here in Atlanta. Plus, it’s really helped form a strong sense of community for Bearcats and Cincinnatians alike,” said Jeff of the league, which purposefully does not discriminate between UC alumni and non-alumni. Since it was formed in 2011, the league has grown from 80 to 120 active team members, serving as a subtle reminder to everyone of their Cincinnati roots. For others, it’s more of an introduction to one of Cincinnati’s favorite recreations.

Allegiances aside, Jeff still proudly points out that last winter’s “Bagstreet Boys” league champions were one of the Bearcat alumni teams. They’ve returned this season as the “Bagstreet’s Back” to defend their title. “It’s definitely nice to see the Bearcats coming out on top,” Jeff joked.

The founding group of D.C. Bearcats remains,
but the kickball team has picked up several
non-Bearcat team members along the way, too. 

The league has brought local UC alums out of the woodwork, too, including Jeff’s freshman next-door neighbor, with whom he surprisingly reconnected through the league. The league has even grown enough to take on charitable partnerships, most recently hosting two tournaments to help raise more than $17,000 for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. See the league in action through Jeff’s interview with UrbanPeephole.

With similar intentions, Caroline and fellow Lindner College of Business alum Tim Lolli dreamed up a Bearcat kickball team to help make their get-togethers with local D.C. alums more consistent. While the team has picked up several non-Bearcats along the way (and even converted some of them into Bearcat fans), the founding group of alumni friends has remained constant and even led to new friendships.

The D.C. kickball team helped grow
their local Bearcat community
even more by making the Penn Quarter
Sports Tavern their official
Bearcat game watch spot.

“D.C. is a very fast-paced and busy part of the country,” Caroline said. “There’s not always a lot of time to just enjoy one another’s company. That’s something I really missed about the Midwest, and the kickball team has been a great way to strengthen old friendships and make new friends in a new city.”

Fortunately, the kickball team’s gatherings have expanded beyond the National Mall, where the team plays every spring Saturday beneath the Washington Monument. When the group discovered D.C.’s plethora of college-specific bars didn’t include one for UC, they quickly found a home base for Bearcat fans. Up through the basketball team’s victorious trip to the 2012 Sweet Sixteen, close to 40 D.C. alums gathered consistently at the Penn Quarter SportsTavern to cheer on the Bearcats.

For both Caroline and Jeff, what started as a recreational pastime has grown into a social circle. Even with years and miles now separating them from their days at UC, familiar faces and shared memories of “home” are just a kick or toss away.

Jeff’s advice for alums who think this sounds like something their local alumni community needs: “Don’t be afraid to just give it a shot. You can’t fail unless you try.

---

Email Caroline or Jeff to join their Bearcat rosters or let your Alumni Association help you get your own intramural team started in your city.

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!

Billy Martin, Brig Owens, UC President Broadcast LIVE from the US Capitol

UC legend Brig Owens and famous DC attorney Billy Martin are speaking at the US Capitol this Thursday at 6:30 pm, and YOU can participate LIVE no matter “Where You Are!” (pun intended). The UC Foundation will be streaming this event live for UC alumni and donors who cannot physically attend.  During the event you’ll be able to “share” the stream to invite your friends, post it to your Facebook, chat live, and tweet your thoughts both during and after the event. Hope you’ll join us! Watch it right here on this blog, on Facebook, the UCF website, or the Proudly Cincinnati livestream channel. Don't miss it!

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.

Watch UC Football with Alums in D.C.

Penn Quarter Sports Tavern
Photo credit: www.dckickball.org

Calling all UC alumni living in Washington, D.C.! Join fellow Bearcats at the Penn Quarter Sports Tavern to watch each UC football game this season. The Tavern is now the "official" UC alumni spot in D.C.

Penn Quarter Sports Tavern will hang the UC flag outside/inside the bar, offer drink/appetizer specials, and give UC alumni their very own space on the 2nd floor to watch the games. And for every UC alum you bring with you to the Tavern, you'll get a raffle ticket to win a UC-related prize! Many thanks Penn Quarter for their support of UC Alumni in D.C.!

Join us this Saturday, Sept. 3 to watch the Bearcats take on Austin Peay at 7 p.m.!

DC alum helps Biomedical student swap UC labs for DC labs

DC co-op student Jacob Turner
prepares DNA in one of the
National Institutes of Health's labs.

Meet third-year UC student and future Biomedical Engineer Jacob Turner. A first generation college student and a small town Northern Kentucky native, Jacob is letting nothing get in his way of a well-rounded Bearcat experience – and a bright future in the biomedical research field. His latest venture: A dream co-op job with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Washington D.C., thanks in part to DC alum John O’Shea.  We asked Jacob a few questions to uncover some of the challenges and highlights of both his co-op search and on-the-job experience so far.

How did you become interested in as complex an industry as biomedical engineering and research?

At the beginning of my freshman year, I jumped right into undergraduate research in the Functional Tissue Engineering Lab at UC, under Dr. David Butler. It was in that lab that I gained my most valuable experience and really found my passion for biomedical research. I really just liked the idea of doing work that might eventually benefit a human life.

How did you navigate the co-op job search process?

When my first co-op rotation rolled around, I began reaching out to labs all across the country without much luck. Given the state of the economy, finding a co-op position (especially in a research lab) is not so easy. But through networking at UC, I was fortunate enough to meet with and get some solid advice from UC’s Provost, Dr. Santa Ono. He was incredibly helpful and connected me with a UC alum, Dr. John O’Shea, at one of the NIH’s 27 institutes – the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease – and the rest is history. I made plans to relocate to Bethesda, MD!

What is it like working at NIH?

The NIH is an inspiring place to be because everyone is there for a common cause: to help others through science and medicine. There’s always something new and exciting being discovered. There’s also a great sense of family and belonging despite the fact that most of my co-workers are from a different parts of the world.  UC prides itself in the level of diversity its student body and staff display, and the NIH is much the same. In front of my desk sits an Italian; to the right, an Englishman; and directly behind me is a Chinese man. It’s wonderful hearing each of their unique stories and what brought them to NIH, and I have learned more from my conversations with them than any book could ever teach me.

What kind of work are you doing at NIH?

The work I’ve been assigned here is far different from what I used to do in the FTE lab at UC, which consisted primarily of cell culture and experiments. I work in the Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch of NIAMS, and we are focused on understanding how T-cells fight disease in the immune system. The work is very intricate, utilizing a very novel technology called next-generation sequencing, which creates an incredible amount of data to be analyzed.

My job has been to write programs that analyze the millions of lines of data and extract the important things.  Besides one introductory course, I was absolutely new to programming and had to spend the first month teaching myself how to program by reading through a couple bioinformatics programming books. I had also just made the switch from tissue engineering to immunology, so I spent a lot of time studying immunology and molecular biology journals. I’ve since written many different programs for the lab and successfully found a number of novel regions in the genome that could control the way T cells mature or fight disease. I’m starting to get more involved in experiments, and if time allows I’ll get to study one of the regions my programs found in mice.

What have you enjoyed most about your experience so far?

One thing I love about NIH is that they always have lectures by famous scientists. I have been privileged to sit in on lectures and learn from scientists like Jane Goodall and at least three Nobel laureates. Today I went to four lectures - it was a lot like class, but I loved it.

Being an undergraduate researcher at the NIH has been extraordinary on many levels, but most notably, it has been extraordinarily humbling. All of my co-workers have an MD or PhD degree, or both, and at least 15 years of experience in medicine and research. They are the best in the world at what they do, and I get to sit in between them at a desk just like theirs, and work on solving complex problems in immunology with them. It’s a humbling, intimidating, and incredibly enjoyable place to sit.

What has it been like adjusting to life in a new city?

Expensive. Living in one of the richest areas of the country isn’t easy on a student paycheck. Rent is double here compared to Cincinnati, but other than that and the incessant traffic, I really like the DC area. It was lonely for the first few months because NIH was devoid of anyone close to my age, but a flood of summer students arrived a couple weeks ago and I’m collaborating with one now. I’m away from my girlfriend and family, so I’m definitely anxious to get back home.

What’s your next venture?

I’m not too sure. I may stay home in Cincinnati and try to get an industry co-op, but if I decide to do research again I have a potential opportunity in Australia. My most immediate adventure will definitely be getting back to campus for fall quarter classes!

National Mall Home to Bearcat Kickball

DC Bearcats Official Team Photo
Front - Michal Hammond; Back (left to right) - Tim Lolli,
Sean Huff, Adam Thurn, Caroline Page, Todd Damren

Their randomly assigned brown team colors haven’t kept them from showing off their red and black on the kickball field. In fact, according to DC alum and team captain Caroline Page, the “DC Bearcats” kickball team has found an alternative for proudly displaying their Cincinnati pride – “We all just wear our UC baseball caps instead!”

This spring marks the team’s first season together and despite their 2-4 record in the DC Thunder Spring League, the budding team has found the league’s rewards extend far beyond a winning record. “We all knew each other from Cincinnati and decided this would be a great way to meet new people and spend time together each week,” said Caroline. “It’s a good excuse to get together and share our mutual love for UC with people from all around the country.”

Catch the “DC Bearcats” in action every Saturday afternoon on the National Mall. Better yet, if the nice spring weather has you missing the good ole’ days of UC intramurals, visit the DC alumni page or contact fellow alum Caroline Page to join the roster.

And for all of you other Bearcats sitting inside reading this post on a beautiful, sunny day, put your Bearcat game faces on and start a team in your city!

DAAP Student Describes Her Co-op and Study Abroad Experience in Washington, D.C. Video Tour

Before coming to college, I never thought I would say in just four short years I:

• Participated in eight design studios with significant professionals
• Studied and researched abroad in seven different countries
• Have not lived in one place for more than 12 weeks—having the opportunity to explore new cities, different thinking, and experiencing countless opportunities to network.

I received the UC International scholarship for study abroad. This monetary assistance allowed me to partake in cultural ceremonies and rituals unique to Indonesian culture, in order to successfully research the effects of tourism on local culture.

The research and study abroad programs at UC allowed me to diversify my interests, bringing me to my passion of international affairs and global humanitarian aid.

My resume speaks for itself on why I love UC. I'm Victoria Fromme, senior urban planning student in DAAP and I am Proudly Cincinnati!

Game on Bearcats: May the best city win!

Twenty alumni cities. Only one of them will bring home the prize. The UC Alumni Association is proud to present...

Bearcats nationwide are putting their game faces on for the 1819 National Alumni Face-Off. From now until June 30th, alumni networks from coast to coast will be facing off to prove which has the most UC pride and 1819 spirit. 

So maybe you're in Chicago, Atlanta, DC or even all the way out in California! Here's your chance to demonstrate your pride in UC - and your city - all at once. With each $18.19 gift, your local Bearcat network will go up in the ranks. In the end, the city with the highest alumni participation rate will receive national bragging rights and some fun Bearcat prizes to help keep UC close to home.

So don't let other Bearcat cities outshine yours. Check out the current standings and if you haven't given back to UC yet this year, now's your chance to help your city rise above the rest!

UC Professor explains Distance Learning

According to Nancy Jennings, PhD and associate professor in UC’s Department of Communications, distance learning is quickly becoming popular for people of all ages and places seeking more convenient alternatives to continued education. That’s a major reason UC has gone to great lengths to expand its digital classroom offerings. 

So whether you’re living in Chicago, DC, New York, or anywhere outside Cincinnati’s city limits, you might not know it, but UC classes are still within your reach.

In 2010, more than 3,000 people enrolled in Distance Learning Programs at UC. Distance learning takes course instruction online, breaking free from the walls and desks of a traditional classroom.  Rather than regularly attending class at a scheduled time, students just hop online to receive instruction at their convenience.

Last year the average age of a UC distance learning student was 35, and the majority of those students were part-time.  This just goes to show that you no longer have to be in your late teens/early 20s or be able to attend school every day and earn a bachelors or graduate degree.  All you need is an internet connection. There are countless working adults pursuing bachelors and masters degrees online while managing full-time jobs or family!

Missing that UC education or been putting off starting your next degree for too long? You can take advantage of distance learning opportunities at UC no matter where you live.  Watch this video to hear Jennings’ take on how distance learning has evolved over the years and the advantages it offers to both students and faculty.

Chicago Goes Red, Black...and Green this St. Patty's Day

Chicago honors a timeless St. Patrick's Day tradition.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! To celebrate, we thought we’d spotlight one of the most recognizable (and picturesque) traditions of the holiday. To all our alumni friends in Chicago – this photo should look familiar to you!

Speaking of traditions, it’s also NCAA Tournament time! The Bearcats are back in the tourney after a five-year hiatus, and will be taking on the Missouri Tigers in Washington, DC. Tip-off should take place around 10pm tonight – so hopefully you have the day off tomorrow – or a good excuse for being late!

Though they’ve already dyed the river green, there will be lots of activities and parties in Chicago, including a Bearcats Game Watch party at O’Leary’s, located at 541 N Wells St. Meanwhile, back in Cincinnati, exam week is wrapping up and 70 degree weather is predicted – did someone say party?

So, what is everyone else doing for the game or St. Patrick’s Day this year? Any favorite traditions or can’t miss menu items you’d like to share? Comment and let us know!

Be safe, enjoy the game, and GO BEARCATS!

Bearcat Basketball...from NY to DC

Alumni from Cincinnati, New York and even a couple from California converged on The Hill  last week for a pre-game event in anticipation of the Bearcats' first-round Big East tournament game against South Florida. Guests enjoyed an exclusive, reserved room in the bar’s upper level. President Williams took some time to stop by and celebrate a season of success in one of college basketball’s toughest conferences.

Even though UC’s big east tournament run ended with Notre Dame, spirits are high for UC's return to the big dance. And if our NY pre-game event was any indication of the fun we'll have this Thursday, watch out DC!

Check out our photos to see if you recognize any of the Bearcats we met up with in NY last week. Like our chances against Missouri on Thursday night??? How far do you have the Bearcats in your bracket?

CCM Opera Grad Shares Voice with Ohio Senator

CCM alum Lindsay Deeter performs National Anthem.

As a graduate of CCM's opera program, it may come as no surprise that my college experience was a bit “out of the ordinary.” By no means did I miss out on the normal UC college experiences – camping out for Crosstown Shootout tickets, pulling an all-nighter the night before a big test, hanging out with friends at Uncle’s Woody’s. But I also had my fair share of not so “ordinary” things – like spending an entire summer in Lucca, Italy performing in “Casanova’s Homecoming” and another in Malibu singing for the world-famous composer Jake Heggie.

Even so, nothing quite compares to my latest debut on Capitol Hill. Ohio Senator Rob Portman, invited me to sing The National Anthem for his Jan. 5th swearing-in ceremony. Each Senator-elect gets sworn in at the Capitol Building’s Senate floor by Vice President Joe Biden and I was asked to sing at his reception later that day. Naturally, it was an opportunity I could not pass up.

Deeter poses with mom and Senator Portman and his wife.

As the 400 guests arrived in the hearing room, I began working up the courage to sing the tune I’d been rehearsing in my head for weeks straight. Everyone was enjoying Ohio favorites – Smucker’s Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches, Montgomery Inn barbeque and Skyline Chili. The Senator was taking pictures with his family and friends when Vice President Biden and his wife arrived. By sheer luck, I fell in his path and was able to greet him and shake his hand.

People always ask me if I get nervous before I sing and I always have the same answer, “No, I just use my nerves as adrenaline to do the best job I can.” And this performance was no exception.

The program began and I was introduced immediately after the invocation. As the lyrics left my lips, I couldn’t help but remember what I’d been told earlier –singing is not traditionally permitted in the hearing rooms. But this was no traditional occasion and was certainly a moment I would look back on with fond memories.

In that moment, my UC pride combined with my Ohio roots left me feeling both Proudly Cincinnati and Proudly Ohio all at once – and I couldn’t have been happier to be the voice for such an incredible moment in history. I can say with 100% certainty that I’ll never hear The National Anthem again without being taken back to that day on Capitol Hill.

Posted by: Lindsay Deeter, College-Conservatory of Music, 2006