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Campaign Leadership

Reaching New Heights Together

Debbie Dale Seidel ’84 and Ethan Seidel are the co-chairs of Reaching New Heights: The Campaign for McDaniel College. Debbie has been a member of the Board of Trustees since 2023 and was president of the Alumni Council from 2017-19. She was honored with the College Service Award in 2024. Ethan began working at McDaniel in 1969 as a professor and administrator before retiring in August 2021 as Professor Emeritus of Economics and Business Administration.

Read more from our Campaign Co-Chairs

Thank you

TO OUR CAMPAIGN COMMITTEES!

The success of Reaching New Heights is not possible without the dedicated work of more than 50 volunteers in the college community who have already been working behind the scenes to help build momentum. Each of these volunteers has worked under the leadership of our committee co-chairs, Deborah Dale Seidel ’84 and Ethan Seidel, to lead our community’s climb to new heights. We are grateful to those who have stepped up to lead these committees, including:

Sam Hopkins '80, P'20

Sam Hopkins '80, P'20

Academic and Campus Life Committee Chair

“Investing in academic excellence and campus life at McDaniel ensures that all of our students can reach their full potential. Through this Reaching New Heights campaign, we have the opportunity to enhance classrooms, enrich programs, offer more experiential learning, and create a more vibrant campus environment where learning thrives. Our philanthropy fuels innovation, inspires achievement, and empowers every McDaniel student to succeed—in college and beyond.”

Splinter Yingling '68, P'90, P'92

Splinter Yingling '68, P'90, P'92

Athletics Committee Chair

“Supporting McDaniel athletics through this Reaching New Heights campaign is about more than fields, facilities, or scoreboards — it’s about building competitive teams and well-rounded student-athletes on and off the field. Every gift strengthens the student-athlete experience, fostering leadership, resilience, and pride. Our investment ensures that McDaniel coaches and athletes have the tools, resources, and support to excel — not just in competition, but in life.”
Charlie Moore '71

Charlie Moore '71

Board Giving Committee Chair

“As trustees, our giving sets the tone for the entire McDaniel community. When we invest in this campaign, we’re not just funding buildings or programs — we’re opening doors for students, expanding opportunities, and shaping lives. Our philanthropy is a powerful signal of belief in McDaniel’s mission, and its greatest impact is seen in every student who thrives because we chose to lead.”

Marty Hill P'93

Marty Hill P'93

Leadership Gift Committee Chair

“Leadership gifts have the power to redefine what’s possible—for McDaniel College and, most importantly, for our students. When we give at the highest level, we’re not just supporting a campaign—we’re investing in the potential of every student who walks through McDaniel’s doors. These gifts create opportunities, inspire excellence, and leave a legacy that shapes lives for generations to come.”

Ralph Frith '84

Ralph Frith '84

National Alumni Committee Co-Chair

“As alumni, we carry the McDaniel experience with us — and now, through this Reaching New Heights campaign, we have the chance to give back in a way that truly transforms lives. Our gifts directly support today’s students, fueling their education, their growth, and their dreams. But just as powerful as our philanthropy is our presence. When alumni engage — sharing time, telling stories, mentoring students, assisting with job searches — we help students build confidence, make connections, and see what’s possible. Together, we strengthen the McDaniel community for generations to come.”
Char Frith '84

Char Frith '84

National Alumni Committee Co-Chair

“The Reaching New Heights campaign is reigniting the powerful bonds that connect McDaniel alumni—not just to the College, but to each other. Whether as classmates, teammates, club members, or part of a fraternity or sorority, these shared experiences are the foundation for lifelong relationships. Alumni from across the country are hosting events, volunteering with committees, and engaging with students and other alumni more than ever. By reconnecting through these meaningful affiliations, alumni are finding new ways to support our students and college community and extend the McDaniel network across generations.”

Chris '88 and Susan Newman '89, P'24

Chris '88 and Susan Newman '89, P'24

Parents and Families Co-Chairs

“McDaniel College has always been about empowering students to reach their full potential, and the Reaching New Heights campaign ensures that legacy continues. As alumni and parents, we’ve witnessed the direct impact that giving has on students—our daughter thrived because of dedicated professors, passionate coaches, and meaningful real-world experiences made possible by donor support. We’re proud to continue our support so that future students can grow, discover, and succeed just as she did at McDaniel.”