Walsh University honored its Outstanding Alumni on Friday, October 18, as a part of its 2019 Homecoming Week activities. The event included a welcome by Vice President of Advancement Eric Belden, Director of Alumni Relations Stephanie Koontz, an invocation by Rev. Thomas Cebula, remarks by Walsh President Dr. Tim Collins and the Presentation of Awards by several Alumni Board members.
2019 Outstanding Alumni Honorees
Established in 2004 to recognize individuals who have given a lifetime of service to Walsh and to its alumni.
John Latchic '69 transferred to Walsh University from Ohio University and graduated in 1969 with a bachelor of arts in general business and later earned his master’s degree in educational development from Xavier. After he graduated with his undergraduate degree, John entered an executive management training program for the Sears Corporation, but in 1971 he returned to his alma mater, joining the Walsh Admissions Office staff, first as Assistant Director and then later as Associate Director of Admissions. He spent 30 years recruiting students from near and far to come to North Canton, Ohio, to pursue their degrees. The final six years of his 36-year career here, John worked as Coordinator of Commuter Services and with Career Services. Still serving students, he found ways to engage them in campus life and helped them connect with area employers. Even though he has been retired for more than 10 years, his alma mater remains a permanent resident in his heart. Recently, when talking about his connection to the campus, John said, “Walsh University is my purpose in life.” He is a member of the Walsh Heritage Society and is very committed to alumni scholarships and finding ways to help legacy students come to the University because Walsh’s values-based education is a priority for him. In the community, he supports a number of causes, including services for disabled American veterans.
Presented to alumni for their achievements, leadership and contributions to their professions, their communities and their alma mater. This year, Walsh recognized two recipients for the Outstanding Achievement Award – Robert Dasco ’67 and Ed Robinson ’77.
Robert “Bob” Dasco graduated from Central Catholic High School and enrolled at Walsh College. A member of the Class of 1967, Bob earned a bachelor of arts in English so that he could become a teacher. He later would earn a master of arts in educational administration from The University of Akron and did additional graduate work at Kent State University, Ashland University, Malone University, and Drake University. Upon graduation, Bob took a job at Canton City Schools, his employer for the next 35 years. Over the course of his career, he held many roles within the school system at both the junior high school and high school levels, including English teacher, home school liaison, assistant principal and department chair. He also served as OWE Work Study Coordinator, Teacher Probation Officer for Stark County Family Court, and he coached an Academic Challenge Team that represented Ohio at the National Academic Championship in Texas. Bob has stayed busy in his retirement and supports a number of causes, including CommQuest, the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, and the Diocese of Youngstown. He is also a woodworker and a golfer, and is known for his skill and expertise with regard to vintage watch collecting and restoration, with a specialization in Dueber-Hampden and Omega watches and related memorabilia.
Ed Robinson graduated from Walsh in 1977 after earning his degree in accounting and marketing. At Walsh he was an involved student, joining campus clubs like BSU and playing on the men’s basketball team, which earned him induction into the Walsh University Athletic Wall of Fame in 1983. Ed founded Robinson Performance Group through which he has provided expertise as a business growth advisor and leadership and sales expert for 30 years. Known as “The Rainmaker,” he has consulted, coached, and spoken to thousands and advised hundreds of businesses in more than 30 countries across multiple industries. A thought leader in leadership development and sales, Ed is sought after globally for his rainmaking techniques and business growth strategies. His energetic, engaging and entertaining style motivates audiences, leaving them with a renewed commitment to professionalism and success. Ed has authored several books, including “4 Giant Steps to Leadership” and “Go From Fighting the Storm to Dancing in the Rain.” The names of the companies and organizations with which he has worked are very recognizable: KPMG, Wells Fargo, American Airlines, HUD, Merrill Lynch, and the EPA, to name just a few. In 2018, Ed joined the Walsh University Board of Directors and travels to campus from his home in Texas several times a year to provide insight and advice and to ensure that his alma mater has the resources and strategies it needs long into the future.
Honors alumni for exemplary professional or career achievements.
Lisa Broucker ’00, achieved a first in Canton, Ohio, history when she became the first female captain in the Canton Police Department. She graduated Walsh with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and played softball for the Cavaliers. As a student here on campus, Lisa went on a ride-along with Canton police officers, finding herself in a drug raid and investigating a stolen car. Her career with Canton Police has been distinguished, and her personnel file contains recognitions for outstanding performance in the field and letters from local residents thanking her for her compassion and help in their times of need. She received the Excellent Police Duty Award in 2016 as the officer-in-charge, overseeing police, workers, and volunteers during the Pro Football Hall of Fame Marathon, and she has been recognized for her work with the department’s Youth Corps. In addition to being the first female captain in the department’s history, she is one of the youngest to attain the rank.
Created to recognize young alumni who have experienced early career success, provide service to their communities, and understand the value of a relationship with their alma mater.
This year’s honoree, Luke Vincer '07, graduated with a bachelor of arts in finance. He played on our men’s basketball team and was a member of Walsh’s 2005 NAIA Division II National Championship team, playing under Coach Jeff Young, and was inducted as part of that team into the University’s Athletic Wall of Fame. Luke is currently a financial advisor with Wentz Financial Group, developing customized investment plans for individuals and businesses. He is a devoted alumnus. He joined the Walsh University Alumni Board of Trustees in 2016 and is currently the Vice President.
