Director of Development Communications Ann Medwetz

Ann Medwetz, Oberlin College director of development communications, died suddenly on March 4, 2016, of an apparent heart condition.

Ann came to Oberlin in October 2010, where she worked closely with colleagues in the development and communications offices on Oberlin’s Illuminate Campaign, major gift and planned giving projects, annual fund appeals, Board of Trustee communications, and much more. Prior to Oberlin, she spent 15 years in the corporate world as a marketing and communications manager, including nine years at the David Group.

Ann will be remembered by friends and colleagues for her generous spirit, quick mind, easy smile, contagious laughter, and, most especially, her profound love of family, including her husband, Tommy, and teenage daughter, Jeannie. She was grateful to Oberlin’s athletics staff for sparking her love of exercise and fitness several years ago, and she encouraged many others on a path toward wellness.

“Most people don’t have the good fortune to be really good friends with their boss,” says J Keirn-Swanson, assistant director of development communications and a longtime colleague of Ann’s from the David Group. “But then most people weren’t lucky enough to work with Ann. Unceasingly generous, brutally honest, tireless in fighting for and protecting those she loved and respected, Ann was a complete Mama Bear, the kind of friend you want in your corner, the kind of boss you want looking out for you, the kind of mentor who always had some new piece of sharp wisdom to pass along.”

“This is an especially difficult time for all members of our division with the sudden passing of our teammate,” says Bill Barlow, vice president for development and alumni relations. “Ann was an inspiring person, dedicated manager, trusted mentor, and friend to so many, and her loss will be felt for quite some time.”

President Marvin Krislov adds: “Ann was a wonderful, warm, positive person and a terrific colleague. She embraced Oberlin’s values and culture and enjoyed campus life. Her sudden passing is devastating for all of us. I ask our community to join me in holding Ann’s family in our thoughts and prayers.”

Ann lived in North Ridgeville, Ohio, where she enjoyed cooking and hosting family gatherings and holiday meals. In addition to her husband and daughter, she leaves her sister, her in-laws, two nieces, a nephew, and countless extended family members and friends.

Calling hours will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, March 8, at Chambers Funeral Home in North Olmsted. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 9, at St. Brendan Church in North Olmsted. Additional information can be found on the Chambers Funeral home website.

Ann’s colleagues at Oberlin have created an education support fund to assist with her daughter’s college expenses. Please see this GoFundMe webpage for details.