Dr. John Tymitz and his wife Dixie have been spreading love and equality together for the last forty-four years and live by the philosophy that all are one.
In 1976 John co-founded the Institute of Shipboard Education which operates the ‘Semester at Sea’ program. He served as Director of Administrative Affairs until 1984. In 1984, John became Executive Director and in 1997 his title was changed to Chief Executive Officer; a position he held until 2007.
John has served as Executive Dean on twelve shipboard education voyages where he taught U.S. Diplomatic History.
Dixie, a theatre and film actress has traveled with her husband on ‘Semester at Sea’ voyages teaching Theatre and Humanities courses. She’s also been in such films as ‘The Mothman Prophecies’ and ‘Sudden Death’.
In 2012 she had the lead role as Granny D in“You’re Never Too Old to Raise a Little Hell!” The play is about the life of activist Doris (Granny D) Haddock whom at 90 years old walked from California to Washington, D.C. to bring awareness to people about the importance of democracy.
Their careers have allowed them to meet people from all facets of life and have given them the opportunity to create life-long bonds while witnessing their friends and loved ones face daily challenges in acceptance and rights that others have.
While attending services at First United Methodist Church in Shadyside, Dixie became involved with an outreach program known as ‘Circle of Faith’ which brings people together of various nominations and to showcase places of worship throughout Pittsburgh welcoming all members of the LGBT community.
John was especially touched when he saw Bishop Desmond Tutu speak a few years ago at Calvary Episcopal Church in Shadyside. Tutu said, “God is for everyone! Gay, straight, black and brown!”
That’s when he knew that they must involve everyone in the continued fight for human rights.
John and Dixie have a simple motto, ‘All Are Welcome’ and have made it their life goal to ensure fairness, love and equality while continually striving for it on a daily basis through friends, peers, church and people they’ve yet to meet.
The great Granny D said it best, “You’re never too old to raise a little hell!”
