Walsh University’s Alumni Association recognized five graduates at the 2025 Outstanding Alumni Awards Dinner during Maroon & Gold Weekend. The event honored alumni for their leadership, service, and professional achievements that align with the university’s mission.

Chris Ippolito, a 2014 graduate, received the Young Alumni Leadership Award. He has maintained strong ties to Walsh by serving on the Accounting Advisory Board and mentoring students through the DeVille School of Business. In addition to his role as Principal Financial Analyst at The Timken Company, Ippolito is involved in faith-based initiatives and founded Credo, a nonprofit organization focused on prayer and community connection. He stated, “Surrender is something I had to learn throughout my career. Whether in work or life, I’ve realized I can’t do it all myself. By surrendering to God’s will and leaning on others, I’ve been able to move forward. That’s why I’m excited to mentor students—to show them that even when things get tough, you don’t have to give up. If you keep going and trust God, you’ll accomplish more than you thought possible.”

Joseph Luckino, who graduated in 2002 with a degree in Corporate Communication, was presented with the Professional Achievement Award. After working in pharmaceutical sales, he founded Cedar One Realty from his parents’ basement and expanded it into a multi-division company operating in real estate and property management. Luckino remains active in civic affairs within Steubenville while raising three children with his wife Tiffany. Reflecting on his recognition, he said, “I feel honored, humbled, and grateful, because you don’t always realize the impact of what you do until someone recognizes it. Moments like this make you reflect on your upbringing, your parents, your education, and for me, my Catholic education and the foundation Walsh gave me. It reminds me how much I have to be thankful for.”

Elizabeth Rayl was awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award for her commitment to charitable work following her graduation in 2009 with a degree in Business Management. She established the Rayl Charitable Organization after her husband’s passing; its Kindness for Kids program reimburses teachers who support disadvantaged students across four school districts. During her acceptance speech she said: “This is a real honor and I appreciated Dr. Collins’ words earlier, ‘Reject the Rejection.’ Words that I appreciate: beauty from ashes, and that the Lord is trustworthy, and He follows through. I just appreciate being here tonight. Thank you all.”

Carol Miller received the Distinguished Service Award after graduating from Walsh in 1993 before earning her law degree from Cleveland State University’s John Marshall Law School. Her career includes over two decades at American Greetings where she played key roles during company transitions such as privatization and sale to private equity investors in 2018. Miller also led NEO Fundraising supporting private schools and served as President of Pulsar Products between 2023–2025; she has spent ten years on Walsh University’s Board of Directors including terms as Vice President (2021–2023) and Chair since then. She remarked: “First and foremost, I want to thank my dearest friends—my former roommates who have been by my side for more than 30 years. We’ve celebrated life together, and that’s a true testament to the power of community and the people who make things better. I also want to thank my husband whose support has made it possible for me to lead and succeed...I am deeply grateful to Walsh University—the staff professors coaches cabinet—along with everyone on the front lines who shaped my journey.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award was given posthumously to Professor Joseph Elias Ezzie ’65—the university’s first international student—for nearly fifty years of teaching economics at Walsh after completing graduate studies at Catholic University of America. Ezzie was named Outstanding Educator of the Year five times but focused primarily on mentoring students throughout his tenure until retirement; he continued supporting students afterward as well.

Dr. Michael Dunphy shared: “Joe was this rare combination of mentor friend colleague...For 49 years he shaped students’ lives not for accolades but because he genuinely cared about their growth.” Ezzie’s daughter Natalie accepted on behalf of his family saying: “Our father was welcomed into the Walsh community with generosity devotion steadfast mission...He instilled values of integrity care pursuit knowledge...We are honored see his work recognized hope legacy continues inspire future generations.”

In memory of Professor Ezzie’s contributions spanning nearly five decades at Walsh University—a tree will be planted outside DeVille School of Business so that his legacy remains present on campus.