With the ongoing war in Ukraine on our minds, a distinguished panel of alumni and faculty experts came together in a virtual presentation Tuesday night to share their insights into the many layers of the conflict. Topics ranged from how the conflict started, the surprising Ukrainian resistance, NATO’s response, the short-and long-term effects of sanctions on Russia and predictions for the duration of the conflict, among others.
Heidelberg was pleased to welcome an elite group of panelists, who were brilliantly guided through the hourlong presentation by moderator Melissa Harrison, ’02 alumnus and a leading communication professional in Washington, D.C., and is also currently serving as the vice president of the Alumni Council.
Heidelberg political science professor Dr. Marc O’Reilly, who specializes in international relations, War & peace, European and U.S. foreign policy, was joined by three distinguished alumni, Dr. Jaimie Orr, ’81, JAGC, U.S. Navy (retired), professor of National Security Strategy and Dean of the U.S. National War College and Heidelberg Trustee; Dave Krebs, ’87, Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (retired), former director of Expeditionary Warfare at the U.S. Army War College Department of Military Strategy, Plans and Operations; and Chad Breeden, ’88, Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps (retired), former assistant professor, U.S. National War College, Department of Strategy and Policy, Heidelberg Trustee and president of the Alumni Council.
“Last night’s webinar was incredible,” said Phil Ness, vice president for University Advancement & Alumni Engagement. “It provided thoughtful, accurate opinions by experts who helped to crystallize the threats and situation in Ukraine.
Phil also expressed gratitude on behalf of the university to “talented and informed alumni and faculty who delivered a great program.”
In all, more than 200 people from the campus community, the Tiffin community and alumni signed up to attend the webinar.