Walsh University’s Alumni Association honored five alumni at its 2025 Outstanding Alumni Awards Dinner, recognizing graduates whose leadership, service, and professional accomplishments exemplify the University’s mission. Family, friends, and colleagues gathered to celebrate lives that reflect the values of faith, community, and dedication.
Young Alumni Leadership Award
Chris Ippolito ’14, recipient of the Young Alumni Leadership Award, has remained deeply connected to Walsh since graduating with degrees in Accounting and Finance and a minor in Computer Science. He serves on the Accounting Advisory Board, mentors students through the DeVille School of Business, and balances his professional role as Principal Financial Analyst at The Timken Company with his commitment to faith and family. His life and work embody the heart of Walsh University: faith, servant leadership, and a commitment to transforming the world with love and service. Chris is also discerning the permanent diaconate and developed Credo, a nonprofit designed to foster prayer and community connection.
Acknowledging the guidance his faith provides, he shared, “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.”
Professional Achievement Award
Joseph Luckino ’02 received the Professional Achievement Award for a career defined by entrepreneurial vision and civic engagement. After earning his degree in Corporate Communication, Joe found early success in pharmaceutical sales before pursing his passion—real estate. He went on to found Cedar One Realty in his parents’ basement, growing it into a multi-division company employing dozens in real estate, contracting, and property management. Alongside his wife, Tiffany, he remains invested in the Steubenville region through civic involvement while raising their three children.
Reflecting on his journey, Joe 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.”
Outstanding Achievement Award
Elizabeth Rayl ’09 received the Outstanding Achievement Award for her dedication to service and charitable leadership. After earning her Bachelor’s in Business Management, Beth founded the Rayl Charitable Organization in memory of her late husband, Jeremy. Its flagship program, Kindness for Kids, reimburses teachers for out-of-pocket expenses to support disadvantaged students across four school districts, demonstrating her faith-driven commitment to community.
During her acceptance of this award, Beth recalled President Tim Collins’ opening remarks: “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.”
Distinguished Service Award
Carol Miller ’93, honored with the Distinguished Service Award, has built a career and personal life defined by leadership, service, and strategic vision. A 1993 graduate in English/Pre-Law, she earned her Juris Doctorate from Cleveland State University’s John Marshall Law School. Carol spent over 20 years at American Greetings, reporting directly to the CEO and helping guide the company through privatization and a successful sale to private equity in 2018. She later founded NEO Fundraising to support private schools and served as President of Pulsar Products from 2023 to 2025. Equally impressive is her dedication to service, including a 10-year tenure on the Walsh University Board of Directors, serving as Vice President from 2021 to 2023 and Chair for the last two years.
Sharing thoughts on the power of community, she said, “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. And of course, I am deeply grateful to Walsh University—the staff, professors, coaches, and cabinet—along with everyone on the front lines who shaped my journey and made such an impact on my life.”
Lifetime Achievement Award
Professor Joseph Elias Ezzie ’65, the institution’s first international student, received the Lifetime Achievement Award posthumously for nearly five decades of transformative teaching and mentorship. After earning his graduate degree from the Catholic University of America, he returned to Walsh at the invitation of the Brothers of Christian Instruction and spent 49 years shaping students’ lives as a beloved professor of economics. Recognized five times as Outstanding Educator of the Year, Professor Ezzie focused not on accolades but on guiding and nurturing his students.
Dr. Michael Dunphy, who was a former student before serving alongside him, recalled, “Joe was this rare combination of mentor, friend, and colleague. For 49 years, he shaped students’ lives not for accolades, but because he genuinely cared about their growth and success. Even after retirement, he continued to guide and support students, always putting their needs first.”
Ezzie’s daughter, Natalie Ezzie ’09, spoke on behalf of the family in attendance, sharing the enduring impact of his life and work: “Our father was welcomed into the Walsh community with generosity, devotion, and a steadfast mission. He instilled values of integrity, care, and pursuit of knowledge in countless students, while always remaining attentive to their personal growth. We are honored to see his work recognized and hope his legacy continues to inspire future generations.”
To commemorate his lifetime of service, Walsh University will plant a tree outside the DeVille School of Business in Professor Ezzie’s memory, ensuring that his legacy remains a visible and living part of the campus he loved.
