Author Archives: classnews
Clarese A. Ornstein ’75
Clarese A. Ornstein ’75 just celebrated her 30th wedding anniversary with her husband, Steven Ornstein, in the New England area. Also, her son is a graduate of DePaul University and works for the New York Yankees.
Cheryl Portwood-Peden Emery ’74
Cheryl Portwood-Peden Emery ’74 with best friend of over 35 years, Karen Seals-Kimbrough hosted their 1st ever “COOK, CHAT, & CHEW” tasting extravaganza. The novel idea came about after sharing a treasured recipe with a new friend. The purpose of the event was to share comraderie, information on breast cancer, fun, and music along with a home-cooked healthy meal which was a “team” effort and a totally intractive educational learnng experience. They ended their program with a raffle (each person brought a kitchen item to place in the gift basket), and completed a Program Evaluation Form and “Pledge Card” to host the next event at their homes. They received all “Excellents”. Their next “5-star” event will be an English “High Tea” held in a garden-like setting complete with gloves, fascinators, and of course, tea!
Burton “Burt” Vincent ’71
We are sorry to announce that Burt Vincent ’71 passed away at the age of 67 in his sleep on September 1, 2016 due to diabetes complications. Burt finished his education in New York pursuing studies in film. A funeral will be held in Chicago on September 10, 2016.
Somewhere in a movie theater, there is an empty seat.
IWU Socks – 2 Weeks Only!
Show your Titan Pride!
From now through July 31, you can receive a pair of Illinois Wesleyan socks with your gift of $25 or more. All proceeds, unless otherwise designated, will support current students through the Wesleyan Fund.
These limited edition socks are only available through the end of the month.
Get yours by making a gift of $25 or more at titanpride.org/socks today!
(This offer only applies to individuals who make a gift of $25 or more by July 31. Limit 1 pair per donor.
Per IRS regulations, the $10 cost of the socks is not tax-deductible.)
Debra Burt-Frazier ’75
Debra Burt-Frazier ’75 was highlighted by the Moraine Valley Education Center at Blue Island for her work in the Upward Bound Program which tutors students in core subjects and ACT prep.
Click here for link to the entire article.
John Herrmann ’74
Dr. John (Jack) Herrmann ’74, a professor of veterinary medicine, has been reappointed to the Illinois State Board of Health.
Steve Skelton ’71
Steve Skelton ’71 “has seen it all” in four decades as an attorney, including more than 20 jury trials where his clients faced potential execution if he failed.
Claudia Reinhardt ’72
Claudia Reinhardt ’72 recently published a book of poetry entitled “Skating on the Sky.” The book is divided into sections, each highlighted by inspirational quotations and color photos taken by the author. The poems focus on the seasons, family, community, nature, and the senses.
An Illinois native, Claudia has lived in Colorado, Boston, and Iowa before taking root on the Great Plains. After working in corporate communications for many years and earning a master’s degree, Claudia is now a freelance editor, writer, and tutor. She and her husband, John Reinhardt ’71, live in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Debby DeBernardi ’76
Debby DeBernardi ’76 left a nursing career to become an ordained minister and professor of religion.


