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—over $2.5 million in lifetime giving—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

Read the full event recap article here.

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OFIC Celebrates 75 Years of Impact with Awards Luncheon and Trustee Gathering