Bishop Stories & News

Meet our Bishops

The Bishop network is full of amazing alumni, parents, donors, and volunteers who connect in their local communities and around the globe to make a difference in our shared world.

Nan's Fans: The Heritage She Left Behind

Nan Carney-DeBord was the number one fan of countless Bishops. While coaching and teaching at Ohio Wesleyan, she cheered on students and athletes in the classroom, on the court and field, and in life. Nan’s positivity and enthusiasm extended to colleagues, alumni, and parents.

Today, Nan has her official cheering section in the recently renovated Branch Rickey Arena thanks to two top fans—Rachael Grant Allison ’89 and Ellen Simpson ’77. Read more about Nan's Fans.

A Welcoming Place

When Elizabeth Dale ’04, Ph.D. was searching for a college as a high school student, she remembers Ohio Wesleyan as very welcoming. That feeling, along with scholarship support, sealed OWU as her college choice. Today, Elizabeth is investing in current Bishops so they also may discover where they belong at Ohio Wesleyan. Read more about how Elizabeth Dale supports OWU.

Belonging to the Wider Community

Ohio Wesleyan parents Lou and Cindy Rose have been deeply impressed by OWU’s philosophy that the liberal arts provide not only a means of self-education, but also a sense of belonging to the wider community. Read more about The Rose Family and how they are helping to shape a successful Bishop community.

 Lifelong Volunteer 

During his time at Ohio Wesleyan, Jim Mendenhall '73 was active in Greek Life, a Resident Advisor, SUBA, and Council on Intercollegiate Athletics. Jim’s connection to OWU goes all the way back to his childhood in Delaware, OH, and in the fifty years since he graduated, Jim has worn many hats in service to his alma mater. We recently asked Jim to share what motivates him to volunteer in support of Ohio Wesleyan. Read more here.

Young Alum Giving Back

As a student, Ahmed Hamed '20,  served in many leadership positions including Co-Director of the 2020 Mock Convention and OWU's interfaith programming. As an athlete he won the NCAC's Don Hunsinger award for most outstanding student athlete his senior year. The experiences he had as a student will stay with him forever. Learn more here about his desire to give back to future Bishops.