ANCHORS OF STABILITY
David & Kristin Dimmich
In a world of constant change, David and Kristin Dimmich have remained anchors of stability at IWU. Through their giving, service, and love for IWU, they embody the steadfast hope that defines the its mission.
The Dimmichs’ connection to IWU began in 1996 when their son, Caleb, enrolled and joined the men’s basketball team. Over three years, he scored 1,158 points and set records that still stand. Caleb was on his way to even greater success when his life was tragically cut short.
IWU held a campus-wide memorial service in 1999 to honor Caleb, but that was only the beginning of his legacy. His picture and testimony hang in the entrance of Luckey Arena, the men’s basketball locker room bears his name, and two scholarships are awarded annually in his honor.
“If Caleb had attended a large public university, there would have been mourning for a couple of weeks, and then it would have been business as usual,” said David. “Thanks to the ongoing efforts of past athletic director Dr. Mike Fratzke and current coaches Greg Tonagel, D.Min., and Jeff Clark, D.Min., Caleb's legacy remains alive and flourishing. For years after Caleb’s homegoing, staff members would come up to us in tears talking about him.”
Over the years, the Dimmichs have devoted their time and resources to the school their son loved. For them, giving is not a choice but a calling rooted in Scripture and a reflection of God’s faithfulness. Alongside their tithes and offerings, they have supported IWU and other ministries.
A LEGACY THAT LASTS
POINTS SCORED BY CALEB DIMMICH DURING HIS IWU BASKETBALL CAREER
SCHOOL RECORDS STILL STANDING 26 YEARS LATER
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED ANNUALLY IN CALEB'S NAME
YEARS OF VOLUNTEER COACHING BY DAVID DIMMICH
Caleb Dimmich IWU Men's Basketball ’96-’99
Their devotion to IWU mirrors what they have felt from the university toward their family and Caleb’s memory. Many of David and Kristin’s most meaningful experiences have come through IWU, including David’s 12 years as a volunteer assistant coach for the men’s basketball program. He often calls his former players his “other sons,” grateful for mentoring relationships formed through the game.
The Dimmichs value the university’s “I Am Third” mindset, which focuses on placing God first, others second, and self third. Coaches Tonagel and Clark have helped make this philosophy life changing for players. The new I Am Third Arena, now under construction, represents the fulfillment of more than 20 years of prayers and perseverance. In honor of their son’s impact, the court within the facility will be named the Caleb Dimmich Floor, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire generations of Wildcats. The Dimmichs see the arena as both a symbol of Caleb’s spirit and catalyst for spiritual growth in the IWU community. The couple believes God calls all believers to give, but they consider IWU one of the most worthy investments for lasting gospel impact.
“We feel there is no better place for a student to receive a Christ-centered education than at IWU,” said David. “You’ll rarely see me without IWU apparel because I believe in promoting our school.”
I’m constantly encouraging students to enroll because I know they and their parents will never regret it. Serving on the Board of Trustees has given me a new look at the inner workings of our school and the deep commitment to Jesus Christ and developing students who exhibit His character.”
David and Kristin Dimmich remain steadfast supporters of IWU. Their faith and generosity have shaped generations and continue to reflect the truth that defines IWU: steadfast love and obedience to Christ remain the surest foundations in turbulent times.