The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) recently marked a major milestone, 75 years of supporting independent higher education in Ohio. At a special Trustee Meeting and Awards Luncheon, campus leaders, corporate partners, alumni, donors, and students gathered to honor the foundation’s past and celebrate the powerful legacy of collaboration and philanthropy that continues to shape its future.

A standout feature of the Trustee Meeting was a dynamic presentation by Denison University President Adam Weinberg, who shared the vision and impact of the Knowlton Center for Career Exploration. The session spotlighted Denison’s innovative approach to preparing students for meaningful careers by embedding career readiness into the undergraduate experience.

Adam Weinberg - President, Denison University

The meeting also featured an inspiring Internship Program Panel led by Chris Goff (Employers Health), Tina Kimbrough (The Nord Family Foundation), and Melanie Garrabrant (OFIC). This panel showcased a powerful collaboration that has facilitated funded nonprofit internships—offering students hands-on, real-world experiences while simultaneously addressing vital community needs. These high-impact internships, made possible by generous philanthropic support, not only ignite students’ passion for service but also foster a lasting commitment to social good.

Chris Goff - Chairman, President and CEO, Employers Health, Tina Kimbrough - Executive Director, Nord Family Foundation, Melanie Garrabrant - Director of Talent Connections, OFIC

The luncheon was more than a commemoration of time, it was a vibrant tribute to the lives touched, scholarships awarded, and futures shaped over the decades. Starting with its very first gift in 1951, over the past 75 years, OFIC has provided $180 million in scholarships and program support. Through it all, OFIC has remained true to its mission: fostering opportunity, strengthening institutions, and building a better future for Ohio’s students.

A Tribute to OFIC’s First Donor, Lucille Grumley

Lucille Grumley, William T. Wickham - President, Heidelberg University, and Harold L. Yochum - President, Capital University

One of the day’s most moving moments revisited OFIC’s very first act of generosity. In 1951, Lucille Grumley, a mother inspired by a newspaper story about the foundation’s mission, sent in a $5 donation—OFIC’s first gift. Her son, Fred Grumley, then a student at Capital University, took the stage with his own son, Scott, to share this story of the Foundation’s humble beginngings. Their presence was a living reminder that even the smallest act of giving can ripple into decades of impact.

Bill Spiker - President, OFIC, Family of Lucille Grumley - Scott and Fred Grumley, Michelle Farmin - Student, Capital University, Dave Kaufman - President, Capital University.

The celebration also served as a reunion of leadership. Former OFIC presidents Ben Sprunger, Jeff Wolf, and Gordon Brollier received standing ovations for their decades of service. A commemorative video featuring the four living former OFIC Presidents, Ben Sprunger, Ken Hoyt, Jeff Wolf, and Gordon Brollier spotlighted their stories, underscoring the human spirit and leadership behind OFIC’s success.

Former OFIC Presidents - Ben Sprunger, Jeff Wolf, Gordon Brollier, and Current OFIC President - Bill Spiker

Jordan Nishizaki - Mount Vernon Nazarene University ’18, Founder and CEO of Executive Creators

A cornerstone of the luncheon was the recognition of student stories—true to OFIC’s mission. Jordan Nishizaki, a three-time recipient of the Huntington Bank Scholarship and now Founder and CEO of Executive Creators, spoke candidly about the role OFIC played in his journey from Mount Vernon Nazarene University student to entrepreneur. His testimony captured the essence of OFIC’s work: empowering the next generation.

That spirit of giving came full circle when Lucie Doubet, a student at the University of Mount Union, was surprised with the OFIC Staff Scholarship. Funded entirely by OFIC employees, the $5,000 award celebrated Lucie’s academic excellence and character, and her reaction brought heartfelt emotion to the room.

Bill Spiker - President, OFIC, Lucie Doubet - Student, University of Mount Union, Barb Britenriker - Board Chair, OFIC & EVP, Chief Financial Officer, F&M Bank

Celebrating Exceptional Leadership and Commitment

OFIC also honored individuals and organizations who have gone above and beyond in support of independent higher education:

The OFIC Inspiration Award was presented to the Career Exploration Team at Oberlin College & Conservatory—Anthony Pernell-McGee, Vilmarie Perez, and Don Graves—for their inclusive programming supporting neurodivergent students. Their work, made possible by a $2,500 OFIC donor-funded grant, exemplifies innovation in equitable student support.
The OFIC Legacy Award went to The Nord Family Foundation, recognized for nearly seven decades of philanthropy totaling almost $1.5 million. Executive Director Tina Kimbrough accepted the award, honoring the foundation’s sustained investment in students and communities, especially in Lorain County.
The Earl F. Morris Trustee Award was presented to Nancy Stillwagon by Lake Erie College President, Jen Schuller. Stillwagon, a Lake Erie College alumna and longtime campus trustee was celebrated for her visionary leadership and over $2.5 million in lifetime giving.
Nancy Hill, a University of Mount Union alumna, campus trustee, and trailblazer in advertising and advocacy, was inducted into the OFIC Hall of Excellence. Introduced by University of Mount Union President, Greg King, her leadership in equity and innovation has made a lasting impact both in her industry and her alma mater.

In recognition of enduring commitment, Diamond Awards were presented to 16 of OFIC’s original 19 charter institutions—colleges and universities that have stood by the foundation since its inception in 1950. Their shared legacy remains a cornerstone of OFIC’s identity and strength.

Looking Ahead: Leadership and Legacy

Barb Britenriker, EVP and Chief Financial Officer, F&M Bank and outgoing OFIC Board Chair, provided closing remarks for the luncheon. Her leadership during a time of renewal has positioned OFIC for continued growth. Although unable to attend, incoming Board Chair Jim Carulas was warmly welcomed and praised for the experience and vision he brings to the foundation’s future.

“As I look around this room, I see 75 years of impact — and I can’t help but imagine what the next 75 will bring. I hope we continue to be bold. To innovate. To reach more students, build deeper partnerships, and tell this incredible story again and again.”

— Barb Britenriker

The heart of the celebration was clear: OFIC’s story is one of collective impact. Starting with a $5 gift in 1951 from Lucille Grumley resulting in a 75 year history of providing over $180 million in student and campus support, the Foundation continues to evolve—powered by the belief that access to education transforms lives and strengthens communities.