OFIC Celebrates Distinguished Honorees at 75th Anniversary Awards Luncheon
Columbus, OH - May 6, 2025 - The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) proudly announced the recipients of its 2025 Annual Spring Awards at its special 75th Anniversary Celebration and Awards Luncheon, honoring individuals and organizations whose leadership, innovation, and philanthropy have made lasting contributions to independent higher education in Ohio.
This year’s honorees exemplify the values at the heart of OFIC—student success, institutional strength, and community impact.
Diamond Awards Recognize 75 Years of Partnership
In celebration of OFIC’s 75th anniversary, Diamond Awards were presented to 16 of the 19 charter institutions that remain active members of the foundation today. These colleges and universities have been with OFIC since its founding in 1950 and continue to be essential partners in advancing its mission. Honored institutions included:
Ashland University
Bluffton University
Capital University
Defiance College
Denison University
The University of Findlay
Heidelberg University
Hiram College
Kenyon College
Lake Erie College
University of Mount Union
Muskingum University
Oberlin College
Ohio Wesleyan University
Otterbein University
The College of Wooster
Oberlin College & Conservatory – Inspiration Award Winner
The OFIC Inspiration Award was presented to the Career Exploration Team at Oberlin College & Conservatory for their inclusive and innovative career staff professional development and programming for neurodivergent students. Made possible by a 2024 OFIC Inspiration Campus Diversity Grant, this initiative highlights Oberlin’s leadership in equitable student support and career readiness. Team members Anthony Pernell-McGee, Vilmarie Perez, and Don Graves were recognized for their creative, student-centered approach.
Bill Spiker - President, OFIC
Oberlin College Career Exploration Team - Don Graves, Vilmarie Perez, and Anthony Pernell-McGee
Barb Britenriker - Board Chair, OFIC
The Nord Family Foundation – Legacy Award Winner
For nearly seven decades, The Nord Family Foundation and its founder, industrialist W.G. Nord have been steadfast partners of OFIC, investing in student scholarships, internships, and educational programming—especially in Lorain County. With nearly $1.5 million in total giving, the foundation’s impact is deeply woven into the lives of students and the fabric of OFIC itself. Executive Director Tina Kimbrough accepted the Legacy Award, joining a prestigious list of past recipients, including Nationwide, Huntington Bank, and AT&T Ohio.
Bill Spiker - President, OFIC
Tina Kimbrough - Executive Director, Nord Family Foundation
Barb Britenriker - Board Chair, OFIC
Nancy Krehl Stillwagon, Lake Erie College – Earl F. Morris Trustee Award
A tireless advocate for independent higher education, Nancy Stillwagon has served on the Lake Erie College Board of Directors for an impressive 39 years. A 1970 alumna of the College, Stillwagon has led with integrity and vision, holding key leadership roles and shaping strategic decisions during times of challenge and transformation. Her philanthropic commitment reflects deep dedication to her alma mater’s enduring success. The Earl F. Morris Trustee Award recognizes her extraordinary leadership and service and was presented by Lake Erie College President Jen Schuller.
Bill Spiker - President, OFIC
Jen Schuller - President, Lake Erie College
Nancy Krehl Stillwagon, Earl F. Morris Trustee Award Recipient
Barb Britenriker - Board Chair, OFIC
Nancy H. Hill, University of Mount Union – Hall of Excellence Inductee
A visionary in the advertising industry and a national leader in advocacy, diversity, and inclusion, Nancy Hill’s career is marked by impact. As former President and CEO of the 4A’s and current CEO of Marcus Thomas, Hill has elevated industry standards while championing equity and innovation. Her service to Mount Union—as a longtime Trustee and philanthropic leader—further underscores her commitment to education. Her induction into the OFIC Hall of Excellence honors a life of achievement, service, and leadership and was presented by University of Mount Union President Greg King.
Bill Spiker - President, OFIC
Greg King - President, University of Mount Union
Nancy H. Hill - Hall of Excellence Inductee
Barb Britenriker - Board Chair, OFIC
“Our award honorees reflect the best of what independent higher education in Ohio has to offer—visionary leadership, transformative impact, and a deep commitment to the success of our students,” said Bill Spiker, President of OFIC. “As we celebrate 75 years, we are honored to recognize these extraordinary individuals and organizations whose contributions have helped shape a stronger future for our campuses and communities.”
For more information about the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges and its programs, visit www.ofic.org.