Program Overview: FOUNDERS’ DAY, February 7, 2026
- phiugammaalumni
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
Saturday morning was a sunny day, but very cold, as alumni and student members and their guests gathered at the Dublin Metro Library.
Jan Bonner displayed the beautiful Legacy quilt near the Registration Table, hosted by Susan
Shockey and Aaron Winkel. A delicious, boxed brunch was provided by Chef Karla Woolley of THE LOCUST TABLE and the daughter of member, Katie Shelley.
The program began at 10:00 am sharp by President, Connie Cahill with a Welcome and history of the Honor Society. Guests were introduced including, Dr. Ann Paulins, Student Advisor of the collegiate Gamma chapter and the National President-Elect and Janet Ciccone, Associate Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications in the College of Education and Human Ecology.
Dr. Erik Porfeli, Interim Dean of the College gave a few remarks and was eager to share the
upcoming transition of disciplines and classes this summer into the newly renovated Campbell Hall. He indicated that the space will be “state of the art” and will rival any program in the country.
Our keynote speaker, Trevor Horn, Farm Director of the Mid-Ohio Food Collective shared his
background as he moved forward into the world of food, agriculture and sustainability. He
manages three different growing areas in the Columbus community, while serving on a variety of boards and commissions to help bring about food awareness. His passionate presentation was enjoyed by all.
Michele Eastlake, Founders’ Day Co-Chair, recognized three 50 Year members on the
program. Members Janet Herrmann, Kimberly Bachman and Janet Berth were in attendance.
They each given a beautiful violet as a gift, along with an OHIO Christmas tree ornament.
Michele continued to read off the names of members who had passed away, and a moment of silence was held.
Scholarship Co-Chair, Alice Miskell, introduced the four student scholarship recipients who were in attendance. They included Anna Czarnecki, Maria Abdul-Masih, Carolyn Ready and Ava McFall. All are in various stages of their studies. Jack Anderson, a recent December graduate was also in attendance.
Dr. Ann Paulins proceeded to initiate the traditional Candle Lighting ceremony, assisted by the students in attendance. The singing of the Honor Society Song was led by Alice Miskell.
A short business meeting followed. The minutes of the 2025 Founders’ Day event were
approved. Jan Bonner, Nominating Chair had the four nominated for officers in the 2026-2028 program year stand. Jan had prepared a very nice photo/resume board for all of the members to review before voting. Officers who will serve include Kathryn Wood, President, Susan Shockey, President-Elect, Suzanne Tucker, Secretary and Aaron Winkel, Treasurer.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:38am. Closing remarks were made and safe travels to all.
