photo by: Julie Stenger

Members of the Steubenville High School Class of 1960 had a surprise guest visit Saturday during their 65th class reunion at the Steubenville Country Club. Gov. Mike DeWine accepted the invitation of his friend, Dohrman Sinclair, who orchestrated his class’s get-together. DeWine and Sinclair became good friends in college, where they attended Ohio Northern University of Law in Ada.

It’s one thing to celebrate your 65th high school reunion. It’s another when Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine attends your event.

Members of the Steubenville High School Class of 1960 gathered Saturday at the Steubenville Country Club. They came from across the country: South Carolina, Florida, Montana, New York and the Riffe Center on South High Street in Columbus — the office of Ohio’s governor.

DeWine arrived without fanfare. There were no flashing cameras, no one holding a microphone asking if he will sign a two-year, $60 billion operating budget or inquiring if $600 million will be set aside for a new Cleveland Browns stadium.

As a matter of fact, it took a while for most people at the club to notice DeWine was among the 40 classmates and 30 guests. Yes, DeWine’s appearance had been kept a secret from everybody.

Well, almost everybody.

Dohrman Sinclair, who graduated in the Class of ’60, orchestrated the event for the fourth consecutive time. He phoned DeWine, asking if he would be interested in coming to this special reunion, as it could be the group’s last get-together.

DeWine, who accepted Sinclair’s invitation, stated the two have been friends since they attended Ohio Northern University College of Law together in Ada.

Sinclair asked the governor if he wanted to address his classmates, but DeWine said he didn’t want to speak — he just wanted to hang out.

“Steubenville is such a great area,” DeWine said. “I am really looking forward to coming back and taking a tour of the STEM building.”

Reunion attendees had the opportunity to tour the STEM addition at the high school prior to the gathering at the country club. Many classmates commented they were amazed at everything the Steubenville facility encompasses.

“Steubenville’s schools are doing exceedingly well,” DeWine said. “People talk about Steubenville all over the state of Ohio. It is very impressive and they are doing a great job.”

Attendees were pleased to have a chance to mingle with one another, as well as with the governor, who made his way around the room and casually talked with classmates and their spouses.

Sinclair expressed his appreciation to Whisman, and her group, for helping on a local basis. The group included John Scavdis, Stan Miles, Sophia Mastros Krome and Sylvia Wise Thompson, among others.

He also was appreciative that DeWine was able to surprise his classmates. He thanked his classmates that traveled great distances, making it a priority to return to their hometown.

Members shared friendships formed at the age of 5. And these classmates continued their bonds throughout their teenage years, through their graduation.

The Steubenville High School Class of 1960 has remained close. Their bond has kept them together following college, serving in the military, having families and even after their retirement.

“I won’t say I will see you all in five years,” Sinclair concluded. “But who knows?”