Wright State alumni lead Oktoberfest at Dayton Art Institute

Wright State grads Patty and Michael Griest, who is also director of student enrollment services are co-chairs of the Dayton Art Institute’s annual Oktoberfest.

Michael Griest, the director of student enrollment services at Wright State University, and his wife, Patty, are co-chairing the 2019 Oktoberfest at the Dayton Art Institute (DAI). The DAI’s 48th annual Oktoberfest runs Sept. 27-29.

Oktoberfest at the DAI includes family activities, live entertainment, artisans and numerous food and craft beer options.

Griest initially got involved with the DAI due to his own love of art. He and Patty describe themselves as fans of modern and contemporary art and Dayton-area artists.

“We love buying from local artists,” Griest said. “I think Dayton is a good city to be an artist, and I think there is a great appreciation for art especially in the downtown area.”

Another thing Griest loves about being involved with DAI is the large presence of Wright State alumni throughout the organization. Currently, 12 other Wright State alumni are part of the organization.

Griest and Patty are both Wright State alumni. Michael received a B.S. in rehabilitation services in 1998, while Patty earned a B.S. in education in 1999, an M.S. in teaching in 2003, an M.Ed. in education leadership in 2010 and a principal license in 2011.

When it comes to the planning of Oktoberfest, Griest was involved in designing much of what will be seen throughout the weekend, including the logo and T-shirt designs and helping with the scheduling of vendors.

Numerous volunteer positions for Oktoberfest are still available for anyone 15 years of age or older. Griest says the presence of Wright State students and alumni is always a welcomed sight.

“We have Wright State alums doing great work,” he said. “We love having them involved, and we hope to get a few Wright State students to come out and volunteer as well.”

Information about volunteering can be found on the DAI website.