A story of commitment

When asked how his day is going, Rod Griffin will often reply: “Living the dream!”

On Feb.6, Rod Griffin was inducted into the Newark High School Athletic Hall of Fame for his many years of contributions to the Newark varsity boys basketball program.

Griffin, a director of Transmission Accounting and a 14-year AEP employee, has earned the respect of his colleagues as a solid and dedicated contributor in AEP’s accounting organization. Another special component of his “living the dream” approach is Griffin’s passion for high school basketball. As a Newark (Ohio) High School alum, Griffin is the official scorekeeper of Newark’s varsity and junior varsity boys basketball teams. For the past 30-plus years, Griffin has never missed a Newark High School varsity game.

Newark High’s basketball resume is impressive to say the least: four state titles, six regional titles, 22 district titles and over 1,500 victories in all. When basketball fans around Ohio think of elite high school programs, they often think of the Newark Wildcats.

On Feb.6, Griffin was inducted into the Newark High School Athletic Hall of Fame for his many years of contributions to the Newark varsity boys basketball program and to the Newark athletic program in general.

Griffin’s efforts are recognized by many associated with the Newark High program.

“Rod’s commitment is invaluable to the Newark basketball program and to our entire athletic department,” said Jeff Quackenbush, former Newark High School basketball star and current athletic director and head boys varsity basketball coach. “Over the years, Rod has always been a very willing assistant in helping our athletic programs succeed, both in terms of our teams’ athletic events and our various fund-raising activities. As for our basketball program, Rod has been a role model for many of our players as he often talks to our players before and after games. I consider Rod to be an extension of my entire coaching staff.”

For the past 30-plus years, Rod Griffin has never missed a Newark High varsity game.

Gary Walters, who coached the Wildcats for 27 years, echoes many of Quackenbush’s thoughts when describing Griffin’s contributions. “Rod Griffin is a man with integrity beyond reproach,” said Walters. “From the time I met Rod when he was our student manager for our seventh-grade team, Rod has always been a high-caliber person and a terrific contributor to the Newark basketball program.”

While often an individual who deflects recognition, Griffin’s election to the Newark High School Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes many hours of dedication to helping people and programs succeed. His “living the dream” approach is reflected in his dedication and strong work ethic at AEP, as well as his commitment to Newark High School basketball.