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Issued: August 12, 2005

FACULTY MEMBER JEFF OLIPHANT DIES

Jeff Oliphant, assistant professor of kinesiology and director of the athletic training education program, died Friday, August 12, at his home in Eau Claire. Oliphant, 45, died in his sleep and an autopsy was being conducted today to determine the cause of his death.

Oliphant joined UW-Eau Claire in August 1989. Under his leadership, the athletic training program thrived, and in May 2002 the UW System Board of Regents granted approval for UW-Eau Claire to offer a bachelor of science degree in athletic training. In fall 2004, the athletic training program was granted accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

In April 2005, Oliphant became the youngest person ever selected for the Wisconsin Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame. Induction into the Hall of Fame is the highest honor a WATA member can receive from the organization.

Oliphant also received a 2005 Over and Above Award from the National Athletic Trainers' Association's College/University Athletic Training Committee. The award recognizes outstanding service to the athletic training profession and the National Athletic Trainers' Association at the college and university Division III level. Candidates for the award must have held the certified athletic trainer credential for at least 15 years. Oliphant served as UW-Eau Claire head athletic trainer from 1989-2002.

Oliphant is survived by his wife, Ruth; son, Zachary, a UW-Eau Claire freshman; and daughter, Jessica.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14, at University Lutheran Church in the Ecumenical Religious Center at UW-Eau Claire and also one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, also at the Univeristy Lutheran Church. Golden Funeral Home (www.goldenfuneralhome.com) is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in care of the UW-Eau Claire Foundation for the Jeff Oliphant Scholarship Fund.

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