Trine welcomes alumni, friends 'home'

Trine celebrates homecoming

 

ANGOLA — Under a sky of perfect clouds and golden sun, Trine University welcomed alumni, friends and family to a “home sweet homecoming” celebration Oct. 7-10.

Against a backdrop of autumn’s finest artwork, the university honored donors, dedicated a stadium and recreation center, celebrated athletic victories and encouraged alumni to peruse through new and updated buildings.

The university toasted donors Oct. 7 at the university’s 15th annual Touchstone Donor Recognition Dinner. The crowd gave standing ovations to Sheri Trine, who was named Trine’s Woman of Distinction, and Larry Franks, who was given the university’s Pillar of Success award. 

The following night, classy decor and the Trine University Jazz Band set the mood for the Alumni Dinner and Awards Program. Alumni awards are presented each year and are determined by the Alumni Association.

Steven R. Myers, a 1981 graduate, earned Trine’s Outstanding Achievement Award. Myers has been actively involved in the recruitment of graduates to Parker Hannifin and continues to support Trine’s cast metals and mechanical engineering programs.

Hubert “Hu” N. Weikart, a 1956 mechanical engineering graduate, received Trine’s Distinguished Service Award, which is given each year to an alumnus who has performed outstanding professional service to society. Throughout his career, he has been responsible for the development of hundreds of buildings, plants and processes. Alumni consider him to be an enthusiastic, lifelong supporter of his alma mater.

Ezell Moore, a 2003 communications graduate, received the Distinguished Service Young Alumnus Award. He works as an admission counselor at the University of Indianapolis. He also is a volunteer for the Starfish initiative, working to inspire economically disadvantaged high school students to attend college.

Alumni and Board of Trustees members also recognized alumnus Robert McDowell and his wife, Eloise, for their gift to the Allen School of Engineering and Technology Friday morning. The university dedicated the Wildensteiner Civil Engineering Office to the memory of Eloise McDowell’s parents, Otto and Elizabeth.

Trine University president Earl D. Brooks II praised the efforts of those who made the Fred Zollner Athletic Stadium a reality. The facility is designed to serve six sports — football, men’s and women’s lacrosse, men’s and women’s soccer and women’s field hockey — and serves over 300 student-athletes, intramural teams and marching band activities.

“Total giving to Tri-State and Trine University from Mr. Zollner and the Zollner Foundation totals $2 million, including the lead gift of $1 million for this outstanding facility,” Brooks said. “It is with deep appreciation that we dedicate the Fred Zollner Athletic Stadium … and recognize the director of the Zollner Foundation, Jennifer King, for their continued commitment and support of Trine University.”

Shortly after the stadium’s dedication ceremony, Brooks directed his audience’s attention to the university’s new athletic and recreation center, which was named in honor of business entrepreneur Keith E. Busse and Steel Dynamics Inc.

“You could say that today’s recognition of Keith E. Busse Steel Dyanmics’ phenomenal professional success comes as a result of an iron will and nerves of steel,” Brooks said. “We are very pleased today to dedicate the Keith E. Busse/Steel Dynamics Athletic and Recreation Center in recognition of Dr. Busse’s leadership as a Trine University trustee and for his and Steel Dynamics’ support and generosity that makes this grand facility available and what it is today to serve both our students and our community.”