UC Clermont dad’s handwritten letters spark global movement
Former English professor's letter-writing legacy
A heartwarming story featuring a father-daughter duo with connections to UC Clermont has captured national attention on the “Today Show.”
Rosie Paulik posted a TikTok video about her father James “Buz” Ecker, former UC Clermont adjunct English professor, and his daily tradition of writing her a letter. The letter writing is an act of love he has maintained for years. The video resonated with viewers, prompting thousands of strangers to ask if he would write to them too.
Moved by the response, Paulik and her father launched the Dad Letter Project, offering handwritten notes of encouragement and fatherly wisdom to those who feel the absence of a father figure in their lives. The initiative has grown into a global movement, demonstrating the profound impact of simple, personal gestures.
The Pauliks joined “Today” to share their story and reflect on the emotional connections they have made through the project. They spoke about how a handwritten letter can offer comfort, guidance, and a sense of belonging no matter the distance.
About UC Clermont
UC Clermont College is in the center of Clermont County on 95 beautifully wooded acres in Batavia Township. The college is an accredited, open-access institution offering more than 60 programs and degrees. UC Clermont is part of the nationally recognized University of Cincinnati. For more information, call 513-556-5400 or visit www.ucclermont.edu.
Featured image at top of Rosie Paulik (left) and her father, former UC Clermont professor Buz Ecker. Photo/provided
Related Stories
Why is there a statue of Stephen Foster in Cincinnati?
June 26, 2026
Even if you don't know American parlor composer Stephen Foster, you’ve probably heard his music. His mid-19th century folk songs, including “Camptown Races” and “Oh Susanna,” make appearances in pop culture to this day. There’s a statue of Foster overlooking the Ohio river in Alms Park that prompted WVXU's Bill Rinehart to feature him in his Cincinnati mysteries segment, OKI Wanna Know. WVXU turned to University of Cincinnati music history expert Kristy Swift for a peek into Foster’s life and impact in the region.
World Cup watch parties unite fans, communities
June 26, 2026
UC Assistant Professor Letisha Brown tells Spectrum News that watch parties for sporting events and entertainment are popular because people feed on others' excitement.
Drone-delivered groceries descending into Cincinnati
June 25, 2026
Walmart is bringing drone delivery to Cincinnati, as reported by 700WLW. Host Scott Sloan spoke with Michael Jones, associate professor of economics at the University of Cincinnati's Lindner College of Business, for a look at what it means for Cincinnati shoppers.