We're taking a moment of gratitude to highlight the alumni friendships forged at Ohio Northern University.
Four ONU alumni from the Class of 2013—Kavan Reames, BFA ’13, Kevin Drain, BFA ’13, Vicki (Moga) Breon, BSBA ’13, and Matt Madsen, BFA ’13— bonded over their shared passion for art and design. Twelve years later, their friendship, built on laughs, encouragement, and creativity, continues to flourish in Columbus, Ohio, where they all live.
“We are like extended family to one another and are always here to celebrate each other's successes and to help with any need that may arise, said Kavan.
At ONU, the four had a memorable dynamic. Kavan was “Mr. Funny,” always bringing laughs. Kevin and Vicki were fierce competitors on class assignments, pushing each other toward greater creativity. Kevin and Matt were “super, super, super procrastinators” who bonded over sports, video games, and feeling awkward at social gatherings.
After graduation, Kevin and Matt’s bond deepened. The continued to be roommates for 10 years, enduring good-natured teasing about their “bromance.” They even started a tradition of designing and sending a Christmas card together every year, got married to their wives in the same year, and held a joint bachelor party.
Though their friendship has evolved with careers and young families, the group stays connected by calling, texting, and gathering for dinners and parties. They never miss celebrating Matt and Kevin’s birthdays, which are just one week apart in November.
“When we do get together, we are still the goofy kids we were in college, and always talk about old war stories from our ONU art department days,” said Kevin.
Beyond their friendship, they are also professional resources for one another, collaborating on projects and offering critiques on their design projects.
“It means a lot to have friends who will challenge me and always have my back,” said Matt.
Twelve years after graduating, the four friends view ONU as the place where they grew personally and professionally. The good memories, including “super late nights in the art department finishing projects,” still make them smile.
“Having friends who truly know me, who celebrate the good days and help carry me through the bad ones, makes life feel less like a solo journey and more like a shared adventure,” said Kevin.
