MEDIA RELEASE__Bluffton University Athletics has welcomed two standout alumni into its Athletics Hall of Fame, recognizing Lori Schwieterman ’83 and Jeremy Best ’96 for their accomplishments as student-athletes, coaches and mentors who have made lasting impacts on their communities and their sports. 

Lori Schwieterman ’83 
A three-sport athlete in volleyball, basketball and softball, Schwieterman found both competitive success and lifelong relationships during her time at Bluffton. After graduation, she dedicated 31 years to teaching and coaching at Ottoville, Spencerville and St. Henry High School, serving athletes at nearly every level and helping launch St. Henry’s softball program. 

Her greatest success came in volleyball. From 1996 to 2009, Schwieterman compiled a 291-74 record as St. Henry’s varsity coach. Her teams won 10 straight conference titles, 11 sectional championships, six district titles and five regional crowns, highlighted by Division IV state runner-up finishes and a state championship in 2004. 

She has earned numerous honors, including induction into the Ohio High School Volleyball Coaches Association Hall of Fame and the Ohio High School Athletic Association Sportsmanship, Ethics and Integrity Award. Now retired, she continues mentoring young athletes through club volleyball. 

“The relationships you gain at Bluffton stay with you,” she said. 

Jeremy Best ’96 
Known for his shooting touch and leadership, Best made an immediate impact on the Bluffton men’s basketball program after transferring from St. Joseph’s College. He remains one of the most efficient scorers in program history, ranking 16th all-time with 1,223 career points and fifth with 161 3-pointers. He is also the only player in school history to shoot a perfect 8-for-8 from beyond the arc in a game. 

After earning his degree in education, Best built a career in the classroom and on the court. Now in his 30th year in education and 23rd as a head boys basketball coach, he holds a 324-184 record, including 291 wins at Crestview. His teams have won multiple conference, district and regional titles, along with two state championships. 

“I’m grateful for my entire experience at Bluffton,” he said. “The values and connections I built here have stayed with me.” 

Honoring lasting impact 
The Bluffton University Athletics Hall of Fame recognizes former student-athletes, coaches and supporters whose leadership, character and achievement reflect the university’s mission and commitment to educating the whole person. Schwieterman and Best exemplify those values through mentorship, sportsmanship and service on and off the court.