Historic athletic space becomes Otteman Memorial Greenspace

Looking out over the open space between Central Michigan University’s Finch Fieldhouse and Health Professions Building, you’ll see green grass, park benches and in the distance, the Carlin Alumni House. Tim Otteman, however, sees a rich history and an important opportunity.

Otteman, chair of CMU’s Department of Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services Administration, recalls cheering at football games in Alumni Field as a child and watching baseball between college classes at the old Theunissen Stadium, both of which once occupied the land just east of Finch. Now, he enjoys seeing people use the area in new ways — throwing frisbees, walking their dogs, playing disc golf, studying and teaching.

“I selected this space because it is near Finch, is currently being used recreationally and was created for recreational pursuits,” Otteman said. “This was a really important space on our campus in the past and is a very functioning space now for the campus and mid-Michigan communities,” he said. 

The field recently was named the Otteman Memorial Greenspace, honoring the Mount Pleasant native’s lifetime giving to CMU — including a legacy gift pledge — totaling $100,000.

Investing in future recreation and event professionals

Otteman, affectionately known as T.O. by colleagues, friends, and current and former students, embodies the spirit of CMU. He’s recognized not only for his vibrant maroon and gold attire but also for his boundless energy and enthusiasm. A dedicated advocate for his students, Otteman goes above and beyond to provide them with practical, hands-on opportunities — such as organizing the Gus Macker event on campus — that pave the way to valuable internships and successful careers.

Along with teaching at CMU for 25 years, Otteman has three degrees from the university and many family members who are alumni. This strong connection and history drive his giving philosophy of creating partnerships and opportunities that benefit students.

Otteman’s gift creates the RPL Chairperson Discretionary Fund, which gives future department leaders fiscal resources to use for evolving department needs.

“This fund is a new opportunity for RPL alumni to give back as well for initiatives and needs such as faculty professional development, new equipment and technology, or student support,” Otteman said.

Otteman, who teaches event management, is known for creating efforts that connect with students and alumni.

For example, he developed a partnership to bring together students, alumni and Detroit City Distillery to create a custom-branded private collection of bourbon, vodka and gin under the name Finch Forever. Proceeds support RPL students in attending conferences throughout Michigan and beyond.

Another example includes a merch store as part of the 75th anniversary celebration of Finch Fieldhouse, a partnership with Mount Pleasant-based Logos Galore to design and sell merchandise, with proceeds supporting the department’s registered student organizations.

“My giving and partnerships always have a student and/or alumni connection,” Otteman said.

Leaving a legacy, inspiring others

Otteman credits former CMU employees Tony and Kim Voisin for igniting the spark that led to his gift. The Voisins were honored for their donation by naming the Voisin Arch on the south end of campus; Otteman hopes others follow in their footsteps.

“By telling the story about how the Voisins influenced me, I hope to influence others to give back and make an impact,” he said.

Jennifer Cotter, CMU’s vice president for advancement, said Otteman’s gift is an excellent example of how giving back to the university can be tailored to what donors care about the most.

“We are incredibly grateful to Tim for his generous commitment to CMU. His unique gift showcases how our team works with donors to hone their passions and find meaningful ways to pay it forward to the university that has done so much for them,” Cotter said.

Otteman said anyone can support CMU.

“You don’t have to be a dean, a provost, a president, a board of trustees member, or a rich alumnus. You just have to be creative and think your way through it,” Otteman said.