Bluffton University

Lori Schwieterman ’83 came to Bluffton University with a passion for volleyball, basketball. and softball, and quickly found a community that felt like home. After attending a women’s sports day, she “just fell in love with Bluffton,” inspired by its close-knit environment and supportive coaches. A three-sport athlete who studied health and physical education, she formed friendships that still matter today. “The relationships you gain at Bluffton stay with you,” she said.

Following graduation, Schwieterman began a 31-year teaching and coaching career that included stops at Ottoville and Spencerville before returning home to St. Henry High School. Across these programs, she coached at nearly every level — varsity, JV and junior high — in volleyball, basketball, softball and even track. At St. Henry, she became a cornerstone of the athletic community and helped launch the school’s softball program.

Her most notable success came in volleyball. As St. Henry’s varsity coach from 1996–2009, Schwieterman compiled a 291–74 record. Her teams earned 10 straight conference titles, 11 sectional championships, 6 district titles, 5 regional crowns, state semifinal appearances in 1998 and 1999, runner-up finishes in 1996 and 2003, and the 2004 Division IV state championship.

Her achievements earned widespread recognition, including induction into the OHSVCA Hall of Fame in 2007, multiple Coach of the Year awards, and the 2010 OHSAA Sportsmanship, Ethics and Integrity Award, an honor she says, “reflects the values Bluffton instills.”

Now retired, Schwieterman continues supporting young athletes through club volleyball and her ongoing involvement at St. Henry Schools. She credits her players, assistants and community for every milestone.