First Wayne College Grad Remembered in Meaningful Way

The University of Akron Wayne College Alumni Association remembered one its own recently with a bench on Wagstaff Way in the memory of Karl Stroh, the College’s first graduate. Stroh passed away in 2014.

The bench was dedicated in a ceremony attended by Stroh’s wife of 55 years, their children and grandchildren, and many friends of the College. Located near the Student Life Building, it provides a restful place to enjoy an extended view of the campus; a campus that Karl cared deeply about and where he served as a charter member of the Wayne College Alumni Association, including as chairman.

As a Navy veteran, Stroh used his G.I. Bill benefits to complete his education at Wayne when it opened in 1972. He graduated from the College (then Wayne General and Technical College) in 1973 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in political science. His wife, two of his children and two of his grandchildren also attended Wayne College. He was publicly recognized as the first graduate at the College’s 40th anniversary celebration in 2012 and was awarded the Wayne College Distinguished Alumni Award posthumously in 2014.

Wayne College Interim Dean Dr. Dan Deckler welcomed guests to the outdoor event, saying Stroh’s legacy was not just that he graduated from the College but that he was THE first graduate, and that he will be remembered for being a strong advocate of the College’s mission in the community. John Lorson, vice-chairman of the Wayne College Alumni Association, said the first time he met Stroh he could tell he was a man who knew how to get things done. “When did he ever sleep?” he jokingly asked the Stroh family. He went on to say that the bench will serve as an inspiration to those that walk by to be half the man Karl was. Stroh’s daughter Valerie told the crowd that her dad was dedicated to public service and that she hopes everyone can take the time to work as hard as he did for others.

Wagstaff Way is accessible from N. Crownhill Rd. A walking path runs along the road and is one of many paths on campus that are open to the public.