Robert L. Wendling served as the faculty athletic representative for former GLVC member Ashland University from 1967 until 1991. He was instrumental in Ashland’s move from Division III athletics to the Division II level. The move resulted in Ashland’s membership with the Heartland Conference. Later, Wendling played a role in the formation of the Great Lakes Valley Conference. According to Fred Martinelli, Ashland’s Athletic Director from 1967-1990, Wendling was “an integral part in the development of athletics at Ashland” while his involvement “was instrumental in the formation of the GLVC.” Wendling who resides in Ashland with his wife Kathleen, is retired and has three children, Valerie (39), Victoria (37), and Jeffrey (32).