Gordon Institute History
The History of the Gordon Institute
The institute functioned in the exploratory and planning phase under the direction of Professor Bill Gordon, who was the institute’s visionary from its onset. Grace College president, Dr. Ron Manahan, officially announced and named the Institute during Commencement ceremonies on May 9, 2009 as the William P. Gordon Institute for Enterprise Development. At that time, Tim Ziebarth was named the Institute’s director. Tim served as director until he was named director of Online Education in August 2011. Alan Grossnickle directed the Institute from 2011-2021 adding the Executive Forum, the Business Plan Competition, and Entrepreneurship training for the local community. Upon his retirement in 2021, Melissa Chappell became the Director until Rick Koontz assumed the directorship in the fall of 2023.
Strategic Goals:
- Student Engagement
- Community Engagement
- Alumni Engagement
Bill Gordon
Gordon Institute Visionary
Tim Ziebarth
Institute Director
Al Grossnickle
Institute Director
Melissa Chappell
Institute Director
Rick Koontz
Institute Director
Questions?
Email Dr. Richard Koontz or call (574) 372-5100, ext. 6311