Coach Ru Resigns in Faith

Women's volleyball head coach and assistant professor of physical education and Bible Dr. Ruth-Anne Wideman, better known on campus as Coach Ru, is choosing to resign.

Wideman submitted her letter of resignation to the Academic Dean's office on March 16. She said her resignation is in no way involved with moral or ethical issues, but instead "a deception and twisting of the truth to create a case" against her. "During the yearly coaching evaluation process, it became apparent that my credibility and competency was being scrutinized," Wideman said.

Declining to give any more details, Wideman said she has enjoyed her time at EMU and wants to leave on good terms. "I came to EMU, called by God nine years ago, and I believe I have faithfully served as a coach, professor, and doctoral candidate," she said. "I have served as a role model and a mentor and I have enjoyed the privilege tremendously."

Citing her resignation being based on principle rather than opportunity, Wideman said she has no plans yet. "I have put this in the hands of God and it is an extreme test of my faith. He has been faithful through my entire life, so I am sure he won't let me down now." She added that she will miss the students and the interactions she had with her athletes.

Wideman has established a reputation as a woman of Christian faith and integrity and has an overwhelming commitment to her team players and her students. "I have always appreciated the way Ru cares for her students and athletes and the sincere desire she has for sharing God's love with others," said Greg Steffen, interim athletic director.

"Coach Ru made it her mission to witness through the game of volleyball, building spiritual relationships with teammates and opposing coaches alike," said assistant women's volleyball coach Kendra Bailey. "Coach Ru continually challenged players, by demanding the best from them on and off the court. Coach Ru made it her mission to succeed, but in the face of defeat, she unfailingly rose to care for the well-being of her players which made her a winning coach in many ways."

According to students, Wideman also made an impact in the classroom. "EMU is not only losing a coach, but they are losing a great professor and an incredible partner in faith. She has always been there to support me and I know she would do the same for any of her students," said senior Jessica Lawhore.

"I am so honored to have had three classes with Dr. Ru this year, and I'm disappointed that she is leaving. We need more people grounded in their faith like her around," said sophomore Joy Shaiebly. "I wish her the best as she moves on from here with God always by her side."