Innovation and Inspiration Ideas Thrive in New Learning Center
CROWN & SHIELD Spring 2021 | Volume 48, Number 2
President's Letter Every year, the season of Lent and the road to Easter deeply influence me. I am grateful for the meaningful journey of introspection and sacrifice as we, together, look toward the resurrection of Jesus and the gift of eternal life. As my family and I celebrated the joy of Easter this year, I also found myself filled with hope and gratitude as our nation continues to progress toward life beyond the pandemic. The positive path forward has happened because of God’s grace, persistence, and true innovation in all corners of the world. Here at Benilde-St. Margaret’s, as the stories in this issue of the Crown & Shield highlight, we’ve been working hard for years to ensure innovation is central to the work we do.
A Catholic, college preparatory school, grades 7-12 2501 Highway 100 S. St. Louis Park, MN 55416 952-927-4176 President l Adam Ehrmantraut, Ed.D. Senior High Principal l Susan Skinner, Ed.D. Junior High Principal l Rikki Mortl Chair, Board of Directors l Jim Vogl Crown & Shield Managing Editor l Kari Knoll Contributors l Eden Garman, Mary Fran O’Keefe, Rachel Kuzma Olson ‘93
The BSM crest: Veritas: Truth Pietas: Holiness, Dutiful Conduct Scientia: Knowledge Crown: St. Margaret’s Knight: Benilde, 3 Benedictine Crosses The Crown & Shield is published for graduates, students, families, and friends of BSM. Please send news and photos (at least 1 mb in size) to alumni@BSMschool.org. Delivery Notice As part of our continuing efforts to reduce waste, we have limited the delivery of the Crown & Shield to one per household. If you hear that we have inadvertently left someone off the list, please contact us at alumni@BSMschool.org. Photography provided by CT Ryan Photography
Year after year, researchers try to identify the most important educational outcomes for students. And year after year, innovative thinking is always near the top of the list. That’s why we make sure curiosity, creativity, and collaboration – critical elements of innovation – are embedded in the mindset of our educators, and why we strive to ensure our students have unique and powerful opportunities to develop creative thinking skills in courses and programs across the school. We’ve also enhanced our facility over the last few years to create new learning spaces that embrace the demands of creativity and innovative thinking. All these developments have depended on partnerships with benefactors, parents, alumni, and businesses. This last year has shown how critical innovative thinking is to the human experience. The Catholic Church and communities of faith have had to adapt and serve in new ways. The Lasallian and Sisters of St. Joseph networks of schools dramatically changed their approaches to meet student needs. Innovation is at the heart of the most successful companies in the world, and I am proud of the work we’ve done at Benilde-St. Margaret’s to ensure innovation stays at the heart of what we do, too. As we enter the final quarter of the 2021 school year, I want to thank our faculty, staff, parents, grandparents, students, alumni, and friends for pushing through the incredibly challenging circumstances of this past year. Our response to the pandemic has demonstrated again how special the Red Knight community truly is – which has no doubt had a profound impact on our students. As Lasallians all over the world pray… Live, Jesus in our hearts. Forever.
Adam Ehrmantraut, Ed.D. President
On the Cover: Students pose with their RED projects in the Cube. From left to right: Thomas Worrell ‘21, Oriana Sampson ‘21, Dani Mergen ‘21, Ryan Kramer ‘21, and Annie Golinvaux ‘21.
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Table of Contents New Learning Center Inspires Curiosity, Creativity, and Collaboration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 A Long-Term Plan to Bolster Inclusivity and Belonging . . . . . . . . . . 7 Forecast Looks Good for Junior High Earth Science Students . . . . 8 20-Year Club Inductees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Day of Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Bulletin Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 In Memoriam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Alumni News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Alumni Album . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 BSM Buzz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Joranger Open . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
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New Learning Center
s e r i p s n I
Curiosity, Creativity, and Collaboration
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One of the ongoing goals of Benilde-St. Margaret’s is to create new ways to give students unique and exceptional real-world experiences that will prepare them for life in an ever-evolving world. Forming academic programs to tackle real-life challenges and creating spaces where ideas can thrive are two of the ways BSM works to make this goal a reality. Two years ago, BSM formed a new collaborative academic track - the Research, Entrepreneurship, and Design (RED) program - designed to offer students learning experiences that parallel the modern workplace. And now, as of December 2020, students have a brandnew learning space that will make collaboration and authentic learning more possible than ever. Situated in the heart of campus across from the cafeteria, in an area that was once a rock garden, the Cube features cutting-edge technology, multiple collaborative spaces, and three state-of-the-art conference rooms. Each element of the area is designed to help students collaborate and tap into their creativity and curiosity. Though the Cube is available and used by all students, it was created specifically to bolster the types of learning opportunities programs like RED classes make possible.
Courses within the RED program are wide-ranging and include subjects such as BioMed (AP Research), Investing and Portfolio Management, Journalism, and Engineering. A special RED capstone course encourages students to undertake individual pursuits, including initiatives as impressive as starting a business, writing a book, or inventing a never-before-seen product. When asked how a space like the Cube will help him reach his goals, RED Capstone student Nate Charles ‘21 responded by saying, “The conference rooms have to be my favorite part. They feel professional while remaining a safe place where ideas can be thrown around and expressed freely.”
Nate Charles ‘21
Charles has created a business, Minne-Soda Beverage Bikes LLC, as part of his RED Capstone project.
It started as an entrepreneurship design formed as part of BSM’s Business Professionals of America Club. Through the RED Capstone, Charles’s business plan became a reality, and the lake-side customers of the Minne-Soda Beverage Bike can attest to it. Senior Ryan Kraemer ’21 says, “The Cube is a step forward for getting students comfortable with collaboration.” Kraemer has invented a vertical wind turbine to power a new weather station on the roof of BSM for his RED Capstone project. Meeting with experts in wind energy, receiving feedback, and bouncing ideas off classmates have all been part of his process.
Ryan Kraemer ‘21
Cube
Curiosity, Creativity, Collaboration
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“It’s a space designed for working together,” Oriana Sampson ’21 says, “which is different from the other spaces we have on campus.” Sampson points out how the library is for silent work and the Atrium is for large group discussions and presentations. The Cube is meant to be a place of conversation, a place for meaningful relationship, unique Oriana Sampson ‘21 perspectives, and teamwork to collide. Sampson’s RED project stems from her interest in true crime and interrogation tactics; she is using linguistic software to analyze the lies told by ‘imposters’ in the popular online game Among Us. Ms. Anne Dougherty and Dr. Steve Pohlen oversee the RED program, helping connect students to business owners, lawyers, authors, energy specialists – any expert in the field who can help mentor students in their ventures. “Helping young ideas grow and mature is at the heart of education, and the RED program is about offering students the space both intellectually and physically to explore what matters to their futures and in their communities,” Dougherty says. “I am energized every day by the things our students are accomplishing, and I am thrilled to have the Cube to help students take their ideas and dreams to the next level.”
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Red Knight Thomas Worrell ‘21 aims to pursue a career in mechanical engineering. As part of his RED Capstone project, he is creating a 3D-printer filament recycling system. “I am working just like I could in the future: designing parts, building prototypes, testing, and redesigning,” says Worrell. “Checking in with Ms. Dougherty each week is also like working with a boss; she has me go over my goals, talk through my plans, and she gives feedback as to a general direction I should take my project but doesn’t tell me exactly how I should do it.” BSM’s vision toward a more authentic, modern education gives students increased ownership over their learning and empowers Thomas Worrell ‘21 them to explore how their education connects to future possibilities. A modern workspace like the Cube - and modern programs like RED give Red Knights the tools they need to tackle the challenges of today’s society with confidence and enthusiasm. “We decided to call it the Cube because in mathematics, cubing a number changes it, multiplies it, magnifies it and that is exactly what is happening at BSM as a result of this space,” says Dr. Steve Pohlen. “Ideas are growing exponentially.”
A Long-Term Plan to Bolster and
B y e t l i o v i n s gi n g u l c n I Fostering a school culture that values and honors each and every student - regardless of race, ethnicity, or ability - is paramount to BSM’s Catholic heritage and our mission to help young people thrive academically and spiritually. That’s why, last summer, Benilde-St. Margaret's hired a consultant to evaluate school policies, practices, and recruitment techniques to identify barriers to inclusivity and make recommendations for our long-term approach to this important work. As part of our organizational assessment, we collected input from hundreds of students, parents, faculty/staff, and alumni. Now, after nearly six months of research and conversation, we’ve used these responses to develop a strategic plan that will sustain inclusion and belonging as a top priority at BSM.
Though details of the multi-year diversity, equity, and inclusion plan are still being finalized, the plan will outline specific goals and action steps in four main areas:
Student Empowerment
Administrative Stewardship
• All students will feel empowered to use their voice, engage in respectful dialogue, and develop and refine their leadership skills.
• In accordance with our Charisms, the president, administrators, and all faculty/staff will assume accountability for the careful management of resources and personnel to ensure authentic collaboration and effective communication.
Faculty/Staff Engagement • Faculty and staff will feel valued, supported, and encouraged. They will have the tools and training they need to actively model inclusive behavior and proactively foster an environment of belonging.
Community Fellowship • In accordance with our values and mission, all members of the BSM community will feel a true sense of belonging and support the growth of an equitable and inclusive culture.
“This plan will bring the five core principles of the Lasallian tradition concern for the poor and social justice, faith in the presence of God, quality education, respect for all persons, and an inclusive community - to life in a real way at BSM,” said President Adam Ehrmantraut. “It’s another step that will help strengthen our community and make us the best we can be.” Learn more and stay up-to-date on the formal adoption of the plan at
bsmschool.org/DEI. Spring 2021 |
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Forecast Looks Good for Junior High
Earth Science Students
When eighth-grade earth science teacher David Reynolds joined Benilde-St. Margaret’s in the fall of 2020, he brought with him an innate love of science and nearly 30 years of experience in education. This, coupled with a passion for all-things weather, inspired him to bring a new form of learning to his classroom: an actual weather station that would provide real-time updates about the meteorological conditions around BSM.
The new station, which stands roughly five feet tall, is located on the roof of the school building and has the capacity to measure every major aspect of weather: temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, wind, and sun. The data collected from the station even provides hazardous weather warnings and outlines local road conditions, air quality information, and snow and ski reports.
Using the Data to Learn
When Mr. Reynolds introduces the concept of weather to his class, he starts by ensuring his students have a strong understanding of the major elements that affect weather and cause significant events like snow storms, wind gusts, and severe thunderstorms. From there, the class moves on to a discussion regarding the tangible aspects of the various elements and how they are easily noticeable, even on regular weather days, just by stepping outside and taking a look around.
A website for the station allows students to monitor conditions 24/7 and gives them a detailed look at the many factors that play into temperature and precipitation. By looking at graphs of data collected over time, the class is able to begin making small predictions of what to expect.
Eighth-grade students (l-r) Maddie Murry, Nick Russ, and Luke Sauer discuss weather patterns with Mr. Reynolds.
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“Mr. Reynolds’s class is really fun,” says Luke Sauer ‘25. “It’s fascinating to learn how even little changes in temperature or pressure have a major impact on day-to-day conditions.”
Bringing Earth Science to Life When asked what inspired him to install the weather station at BSM, Mr. Reynolds reflected on a desire to make earth science more tangible and fun for his students. “Weather is a great hobby for many of us; it is something we all discuss, and it obviously affects our day-to-day life in a very real way. I built the station hoping to inspire wonder and to encourage our students to gain a life-long understanding of the magnificence of weather and the impact it has on our world. The same is true with the other aspects of earth science. It is a gift to notice the natural world around us.” Mr. Reynolds plans to keep expanding on the type of data the station collects and even hopes to add a UV/solar sensor to the station, along with a lightning detector and webcam. He is also exploring options for adding other science-related data and reports to the website such as earthquake and astronomy reports.
Check it Out for Yourself Knowing how important weather is to anyone who lives in Minnesota, Mr. Reynolds made the station’s website publicly accessible. Visit bsmweather.org to check it out for yourself and learn what’s in store - weatherwise - at BSM!
Mr. Reynolds poses with the new weather station.
Club Twenty -YearInductees Amy Larson
Änna Overbo
BSM is thrilled to honor five new inductees to the faculty/staff 20-Year-Club! Our community is better because of their incredible devotion and contributions.
Casey Hanson
Fred Hennen
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Kathy Hawkinson
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Day of Giving May 12, 2021
? n I s ' o h W Your gift provides:
TUITION ASSISTANCE
TECHNOLOGY
$ $ $$ 10
INNOVATIVE CURRICULUM
FACULTY DEVELOPMENT
$ | Spring 2021
ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES
Rita and George Marx, Alum Parents
Phil and Gail McLaughlin, Current Parents Gail, Eli ’25, Noah ’31, Phil ‘90
We’re in because we can already see the benefit our children get from being part of such a unique and supportive community. The friendships and connections with classmates and faculty will last a lifetime.
Front row, left to right: Nic ‘99 holding Lainey (1), Jessica, Vivian (6), Charley (4), Conrad (3), Lucy (5), Casey holding Wyatt (2 months) Back row, left to right: Caleb, Rita, George, Dan ‘03, Seth ‘10 Missing from this photo: daughter-in-law, Laura, and Dan/Laura’s daughter Sloane (1)
We’re in because of the incredible support our sons received during their years at BSM - from faculty, administration, and coaches. They graduated prepared for their next steps!
Ed and Julie Kocourek, Grandparents
Theresa Clifford Acevedo ’98 and Wilson Acevedo, Alum
Grandparents of four former students and four current students; parents of eight former students and one in-law.
Max (10), Theresa, Dog Bailey, Sam (4), Wilson, and Trudy (8)
We are still in because of BSM’s exceptional academic programs and the faith-based leadership of the administration and faculty. Go Red Knights!
We’re in because we believe in Catholic education and are grateful for BSM’s focus on whole-person learning, service to others, and supportive community.
Every year, we rely on support from the BSM community to help bridge the gap between tuition paid and the actual cost of delivering an exceptional BSM education. Gifts of any size help us achieve our mission to educate, empower, and inspire students to lead lives of faith, achieve academic excellence, and contribute meaningfully to a global society.
I'm in!
BSMschool.org/DayofGiving Spring 2021 |
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Monday
June
See details on back cover
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Spring 2021
Joranger Golf Open
Bulletin Board
Save the date for the annual alumni golf tournament, the Joranger Open, scheduled for Monday, June 14, 2021. Alums from Benilde High School, St. Margaret's Academy, BSM, and their families and friends are all invited to join us at Deer Run Golf Club for a day of friendly competition. Stay tuned to BSMschool.org/Joranger for more details and registration information.
Reunions
If you graduated in a year ending in a 6 or a 1, it is your reunion year.
6 or 1
Some classes are moving ahead with plans while others have decided to postpone their reunion due to COVID-19. To facilitate online reunion events, the alumni office has created a Zoom account specifically for reunion classes. In-person reunion gatherings can be organized by a class representative at their own discretion. If you would like to plan an in-person or online reunion for your class, contact Rachel Kuzma Olson ‘93 at rkuzmaolson@BSMschool.org for access to the Zoom account and to get more information.
2021
Reunions SEPTEMBER
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SMA 1970
12
SMA 1960
60 plus two will just have to do. We are looking to celebrate our 60th class reunion in the summer of 2022. Reunion contact: Judy Merchant Nelson at mjudenel@aol.com.
SMA 1970
Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, details TBA. Reunion contact: Nancy Somers, nancymsomers@gmail.com.
BSM 1981
Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021, Park Tavern, 4 p.m. Reunion contact(s): Mary Lynn Hasselman English, maryenglish19@yahoo.com and Brian Murphy, bmurphy13@outlook.com. | Spring 2021
SUMMER
2022 SMA 1960
SEPTEMBER
25 BSM 1981
In Memoriam John (Jack) Guinney Adams, Jr. ‘63 John Angell
Father of Molly Angell Levoir ‘88 John Jr. Thomas ‘97 Nora Angell Thelen ‘98 Monica ‘98 Joseph Theresa Angell Stee ‘01 Michael Hannah Angell Johnston
Kathryn Bedford Mother of Kal ‘86 David Michael
Mary McHugo Burgess ‘56
Daughter of Deloris Keiffer McHugo ‘32 (deceased) Sister of Judy McHugo Solie ‘57 Lynne McHugo Dischlinger ‘59 (deceased) Theresa McHugo Pat McHugo Rita McHugo ‘63 John McHugo Kate McHugo Miller ‘67 Tim McHugo - deceased Lorie McHugo McLellan ‘71 Dave McHugo (deceased) Sue McHugo Jolson ‘72 Mother of Mark Burgess ‘78 Beth Burgess Irvine Joe Burgess ‘79 Molly Burgess ‘87
Joan Cafarella Mother of John ‘75 Paul Jim ‘78 (deceased) Joe Tom ‘84
Thomas Carter ‘65
Son of Grace Smith Carter ‘38 (deceased) Brother of Mary Anne ‘63 Nancy Carter DeSchepper
Chris Commerford Mother of Eve ‘04 Kevin ‘04 Aidan Bryce ‘23
Mary Fayfield
Mother of Robert T. Molly Fayfield Erdahl ‘87 Bradford ‘90
Leo Fossum
Father of Erik ‘91 Kirk ‘93
Ruth Schuller Fries ‘52 Dan Gionet
Husband of Andrea Thraen Gionet ‘82 Father of Zachary ‘13 Nicholas ‘16
Edward Graca ‘66
Brother of Tim Jim Joe Father of Sean ‘90 Jonathan ‘94 Mariah Graca Weber ‘98
Richard Graziano
Husband of Barbara Clemmer Graziano ‘49 (deceased) Father of Gina Ricci ‘80 Adam ‘84
Mary Alice Juettner Hargarten ‘47 Barbara Hickok
Mother of Elizabeth Hickok Jungst ‘72 Allan ‘73 Stephen ‘76 Anne Hickok-Hanley ‘78 Chris ‘83 Mary Catherine (deceased) Matt ‘88 (deceased) Meaghan Hickok Dowden ‘90
Robert Hillstrom
Father of Robyn Hillstrom West Scott Shelly Hillstrom Peterson Brad Tamara ‘78
Donna Joranger Himmel ‘80
Daughter of Jim Joranger (former faculty) Sister of Mary Joranger Neraasen ‘76 Mike ‘78 Jim
Clarence Hynes
Father of Barbara Hynes Tomczyk ‘67 Kathleen ‘69 Joanne ‘74 David ‘76 Patricia Hynes Bruer ‘82
Veronica McDonald Coughlin ‘48
Harvey Johnston ‘62
Mary Mack Crowley ‘59
Adrian and Jacqueline Kapsner
Demetrios Demetriou
Father of Laura Demetriou Mahoney ‘86 Mark James Preston (JP)
Frederic C. Eddowes, Jr. Father of Christopher ’80 Kathleen ‘82 Kevin ‘83 Elizabeth Carol ‘84
Husband of Patricia Regan Johnston ‘62
Parents of Christopher Jonathan ‘82 Matthew ‘83 Kitty
Robert Keppel
Father of Mark Paul Mary Thomas Christopher Margaret Keppel Collins ‘86 Barbara Keppel Kingston ‘88
John Kirchner
Pat O’Brien Rotondi ‘64
Father of Kevin ‘78 Mark ‘79 P.D. ‘82 Edmund ‘84 Thomas
Sister of Mickie O’Brien Weaver ‘68
Mary Jane Young Ruff ‘44 Mother of Mary Ruff Jenkins ‘68 John ‘70 Julie Ruff Pink ‘72 Ann ‘73 Bob ‘75 Tom ‘76 Katie ‘80 Joe ‘82
Julie Lizak
Mother of Matt ‘21 Callie Michael
Tim Londo
Patricia Anne (Pat) Bennett Ryan ‘46
Brother of Karen Londo Pribyl Tom Roxanne Londo Bagby ‘71 Melanie Londo Pattee ‘73
Mother of Kathy Ryan Sullivan ‘72 Anne Ryan Gauer ‘74 Jim Ryan Julie Ryan-Silva
Joseph McCarthy Father of Teresa ‘78 Brian ‘79 Patrick ‘83
Helen Sirba
Mother of Bishop Paul Sirba (deceased) Fr. Joseph ‘73 John Catherine Sirba Kelly
Don McKenzie ‘61 Susan Martin ‘66
Margaret Stringer
Patrick Meneely ‘73
Mother of Thomas ‘70 Mary Beth Stringer Hughes ‘71 Catherine Stringer Shogren ‘73 Ann Stringer Roth ‘75 Michael ‘82
Frank Motzko Father of Joe ‘72 Phil ‘74 Cecilia Mary Paul ‘82
Scott Stuhr ‘74
Brother of Mark (deceased) Wendy ‘75 Lisa Stuhr Sundberg ‘80 David
Elaine Oakland
Mother of Susan ‘71 Mark Greg ‘73 Mary Oakland Stephens Margaret Oakland Showers ‘78 Judy Oakland Steinmetz Steve ‘82 Dan
Mary Swartout ‘71
Sister of Helen Swartout Hughes ‘70 Joan Swartout McGinn ‘72 Martha Sarah Paula Mike Ed Joe
Wayne O’Keefe
Brother of Robert (deceased) Jack Donna O’Keefe Schiefelbein ‘50 Shirley O’Keefe Reiss ‘53
Virginia Thiel
Mother of Len Jr. ‘64 Michael ‘66 Cheryl Thiel Morris ‘68 Mark ‘73 Robert ‘78 William ‘78
Gordon Ortler
Husband of Mary Kastner Ortler ‘57 Father of Julie Ortler Palach ‘80 Jennifer Ortler Blood ‘85
Rose Pink
Mother of John ‘68 Bob ‘71
Curtis Puncochar Father of Davis ‘24 Jack ‘24
Lawrence Rocheford ‘76 Renee Romain
Mother of Jacquie ‘79 Jesse ‘81 John Mike
Rosemary Vanderlinde
Mother of Jeanne Marie Vanderlinde, OSB (faculty)
Milllie Warnert
Mother of Pam Warnert Pauley ‘73 Cindy ‘76 Todd ‘78
Mary White
Mother of Catherine White Tsarouhas ‘74 Greg ‘78 (deceased) Thomas ‘80 James ‘84 Michael ‘89
Sarah Woods (former staff)
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Alumni News Spring 2021 1993
Brian Grace joined Nationwide as chief communications officer in January. Brian traded Flo for Peyton Manning after five years with Progressive. He and his family are excited to see what all the buzz is about in the fastest-growing city in the Midwest - Columbus, Ohio. Brian and wife Katie (Yost) have 13-year-old son Jack and nine-year old-daughter Greta.
1994
Brendan Hanley and wife Ploy celebrated the first birthday of their son, Asher, at their home in Thailand. Brendan is an attorney in ethics and compliance at Western Digital.
1996
On Jan. 13, Dan Woog assumed his office in the Colorado House of Representatives. Dan was elected to represent District 63 which includes a large part of Weld County in north central Colorado. Dan and his family live in Eric, Colorado.
1950
St. Margaret’s Academy classmates gathered for their 70th reunion at Doolittle’s Woodfire Grill on Sept. 17, 2020: back row (l-r) Carol Wintheiser Archambo, Donna Terlouw Wallander, Donna O’Keefe Schiefelbein, Mary Heckman Gaffney, June Ess Hiller, Veronica Mortl Fashant; front row: Margaret Campion Jaeger, Claire Nagel Ready, and Marilyn Baron Zastrow.
1961
Classmates from St. Margaret’s held a Zoom reunion Oct. 17, 2020, for their 59th anniversary. It was a huge success and allowed classmates to connect across four time zones. Each person gave a brief update and they broke into small groups for chatting. Some thought the Zoom was even better than a lunch where you can only talk with your tablemates. This group continues to connect on a regular basis through a Zoom exercise class and a Zoom book club. The virtual event was organized by Carole Lombard Harlow.
1980
2001
Michael Hahn, Ph.D., joined Saint Mary’s University as an assistant professor and the director of the Character and Virtue Education program. Previously, Michael was an instructor at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University for four years. He also taught at Cathedral High School in Saint Cloud and Saint Benedict’s Preparatory School in Newark, New Jersey. Erin Keefe Cullinane and her husband, Riley, welcomed baby Rowan John-Paul Cullinane into the family on Nov. 10, 2020. He arrived a little early but mom, dad, and baby are all doing well. BSM band instructor Paul Keefe ‘75 is the proud grandpa of this new addition. Riley is a chiropractor and Erin is an IT recruiter for Inserso Corporation. The Cullinanes live in Chaska.
2002
Kate Shay Bruggemann was born on Sept. 24 to Eric and Kerry Cooley Bruggemann. Kate joins big sister Stella (4.5) at their home in Edina.
Kevin Phillips has published a book entitled Driving While Black, A Memoir of Profiling. A traffic stop in 1999 prompted this book that describes profiling of all types. It is due out this spring.
Dan and Katie Ledin Harwood are excited to share the news about the birth of their son, Tate John Harwood, on Dec. 1, 2020. He joins siblings Eli (8) and Lynnea (4) at home.
1988
2004
Lori Wilderson Jupiter was elected to a seat on the Orleans Parish Civil District Court bench in New Orleans. Lori is a Xavier University and Loyola Law School graduate. She and her husband, Jerome, have five children. She is also a certified doula and a yoga instructor.
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Numerous members of the Class of 2004 gathered via Zoom for a COVID-compliant holiday celebration on Friday, Dec. 18, 2020. Starting at the top left: Catherine Kedzuf Berg, Shannon Martin and husband Stuart Quirk, Nick Halbert, Paul Baumer and wife Kim Hossler, Joe Ryan, Betsy Miller Windhorst,
Pehr Hovey and wife Ali Van Dam, Kathy Tymchuck Lucht and husband Jordan, Paul Buchanan, Alison Vevea Reall, and Neha Seth ‘03. Dana Middlebrooks Smith and her husband, Peter, recently opened MinnyRow Market on Mainstreet in Hopkins. The boutique store specializes in locally-sourced and ethically produced foods.
2005
Annie Houlihan Doda and her husband Matt are pleased to announce the birth of Raegan Jane on Dec. 28, 2020. Big brother Layne welcomed her home.
2009
The War Requiem, by Kaia Solveig Preus, is a Minnesota Book Awards finalist in the Memoir and Creative Nonfiction category.
2010
COVID has left many of us feeling anxious, depressed, fearful, and disconnected. Tess Hayes offers a beacon of comfort and inspiration in her first published book, May You Shine: Love Letters to the Hurting, Healing, and Growing Heart. Tess received a degree in accounting at the University of St. Thomas and currently works at Be The Match. Tony Roy and wife Olivia were married March 23, 2019, in Phoenix, Arizona.
2011
Allana Hayes Walsh and her husband, Justin, welcomed Hudson Brett and Hayes Paul to their family on Nov. 10. Big sister Audrey (2) is excited to have Hayes and Hudson home. Allana and Justin, along with Megan Mura Ward ‘05 and husband Zack, own OMNI Brewing Co. in Maple Grove.
2006
Seán Wyley and his wife, Jackie, welcomed Brayden Michael into the world on March 11, 2020. Brayden is the first grandchild for Shay and Brenda Wyley and the first nephew for Oisín ’09, Michelle ‘18, and Ronan Wyley’ 21. Both Seán and Jackie work for Exxon Mobil in Houston, Texas.
The wedding plans of Madeline Moore and Greg Zeman fell victim to COVID-19. They were married on April 3, 2020, at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis with only family present. In November they road-tripped to Palm Springs for the rescheduled formal celebration. Maddy is a senior inventory manager at Target and Greg is an enterprise account executive at Branch in Minneapolis.
2012
Sarah Alexander and Maxwell Schmidt were married on Oct. 3, 2020, at St. John the Baptist in Excelsior. Sarah is a registered nurse at USC and Maxwell is a client solutions associate at Flexport. The Schmidts now live in Los Angeles.
2007
Hannah Goodrich and Dan Stark were married on Leap Day 2020 at the Lumber Exchange in downtown Minneapolis. Hannah is a healthcare IT consultant and Dan is a project manager. The newlyweds live in Minneapolis. Ellie Hawkinson O’Brien and husband Pat recently relaunched their nutnola and nutnola butter company Square Root. All products are gluten and grain free, paleo, vegan, and low in sugar. For more information or to order products, visit their website at hungrybynature.com. Ellie and Pat also welcomed their son, Ronan Scott O’Brien, into the world on Nov. 23. The O’Briens live in Chicago. Molly McClurg Schuler and her husband, Eric, welcomed Lexi Kane on Nov. 26, 2020.
Sanjay Lumpkin was recently named the video coordinator for the Utah Jazz. Robby Sutherland and Bridget Johnston were married on June 13, 2020, at the St. Ursula Chapel in Cincinnati. Robby is an IT consultant for A-LIGN and Bridget is a fifth grade teacher. Both are graduates of Miami University, Oxford, Ohio. The Sutherlands and their English springer spaniel Bo are settled in Cincinnati.
Photos were submitted to Benilde-St. Margaret’s for publication and were not taken at any BSM-sponsored events.
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Alumni Album Spring
Classmate Celebration - Julia Weber (left) and Anna Cron celebrated with Sarah Alexander ‘12 on her wedding day in October.
2021
Hawkinson Girls and Ronan Ellie Hawkinson O’Brien ‘07, Kathy Hawkinson, Martha Hawkinson ‘10 (holding Ellie’s baby Ronan), and Katie Hawkinson ‘05 celebrated on Christmas morning. Ronan’s dad Pat had camera duty.
Volleyball Reunion Maggie Kukar ‘93 and Sara Wartman Dooley ‘94 reunited on the volleyball court at BSM. Maggie was officiating the game for Sara’s daughter, Michaela Dooley ‘23.
Miller Family - Brooklyn ‘24, Bennett ‘22, Riley ‘18, and Payton ‘16 enjoyed watching a basketball game together. Catholic Schools Week - The students at St. Therese School in Deephaven had the opportunity to dress like their teacher. Katie DesLauriers Sullivan’s ‘99 daughter Maria (right) was a perfect match for her teacher, Molly Monson ‘10. Maria’s classmate Sophia Austin was also part of the fun. 16
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Alumni Children’s Christmas Event - In December, Santa visited BSM alums and their families at an outdoor drive-up event. Santa waved and visited with alums and their children at a safe distance in the BSM parking lot while Red Knight seniors were on hand to distribute treat bags and welcome alumni families back to school. Mother/Daughter Red Knights - Anne Ford Moore ‘81 celebrated with daughter Madeline ‘11 on the occasion of her marriage to Greg Zeman ‘11.
Christmas with the Keefes - The family gathered to celebrate Christmas and the birth of Erin Keefe Cullinane’s ‘01 new baby: (l-r) Billy Blissenbach, Megan Keefe Blissenbach ‘13, Jodie, Paul ‘75, Matt ‘16, Robert ‘05, Riley Cullinane, and Erin, holding her new baby and future Red Knight, Rowan John-Paul.
Hawkeye Visit - Ben James ‘22 (left) had an opportunity to visit his brothers at the University of Iowa. We’re sure Mason ‘19 (center) and Peyton ‘17 were happy that Ben wore his Iowa shirt for the visit.
Moore/Zeman Wedding Party - Red Knights were in abundance at the marriage celebration of Madeline Moore’11 and Greg Zeman ‘11: back row (l-r) Auggie Moore ‘16, Alex Zeman ‘05, Sam Scherer ‘11, BJ Dunn ‘11, Tyler Stefan, Greg ‘11, Loren French, and TJ Moore ‘13; middle row (l-r) Taylor Ahlborn ‘11, Paige Erickson ‘11, Brooke Dornbach ‘11, Sarah Zeman, Elle Zeman Stefan ‘08, Maddy ‘11, Taylor Allen ‘11, Andrea Boosalis ‘11, Claire French ‘11, and Lauren Meyer 11; front (l-r) John Hansen 11, and Taylor Topousis ‘11. Prepping for 7th Grade - Sixth grader Emma Cella ‘27 recently took the BSM placement test in preparation for next year at BSM. She celebrated with her family, all wearing Red Knight gear: Corinn Tennessen Cella ‘95, Tom Cella ‘90, Emma, and Tommy.
Skating Tifts - A local rink and the Christmas holidays provided the perfect opportunity for the Tift boys to play a little hockey: (l-r) Danny ‘14, Luke ‘18, Jack ‘11, and Sam ‘08.
Goodrich Wedding - Celebrating the marriage of Hannah ‘07 was a joyous occasion for the Goodrich family: (l-r) Will Simmons (holding Aidan), Kate Goodrich Simmons ‘03, Claire Goodrich Huerter ‘’05 (holding Cal), Jack Huerter, John Goodrich, Hannah, Dan Stark, Lucy Huerter, Jane Lundeen Goodrich ‘71, and Peyton Goodrich ‘11. Spring 2021 |
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z Spring 2021 z u B Left: Dani Mergen ‘21 In September, Red Knight Dani Mergen ‘21 competed at the 2020 World Wake Surfing Championship in the Women’s Amateur Skim division, placing sixth. She has since moved up to the Outlaw Women’s Skim division!
Below: Mock Trial BSM’s Mock Trial team competed at the State Tournament March 3. This was the third State appearance for the team in the last four years.
Above: Christmas Video In BSM’s 3rd annual Christmas video, Red Knights spread holiday cheer in a special rendition of 12 Days of Christmas.
Right: Radio Show The drama department presented It’s a Wonderful Life Radio Show which was enjoyed by community members from the comfort of their living rooms over Christmas break.
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Above: Piano A baby grand piano has found a new home in BSM’s music classroom thanks to a generous donor and is greatly enjoyed by Red Knights.
Below: Alpine Ski Red Knight Grace Horejsi ‘24 competed at the MSHSL Alpine Ski State Tournament March 10.
Above: Boys’ and Girls’ Hockey Both the BSM boys’ and girls’ hockey teams won Metro West Conference Championship titles this season.
Above: Catholic Schools Week Red Knights celebrated Catholic Schools Week Feb. 1-5 with school-wide Mass, dress up days, and service projects. Right: Building Your Future Day The junior class attended the Building Your Future workshop Feb. 5 organized by BSM’s school counselors to get a jump start on college preparations.
Left: Boys’ Basketball The boys’ basketball team welcomed Damian Johnson as the new head coach this season.
Above: Dance The Knightettes competed at the MSHSL State Dance Tournament March 12-13, 2021 and won 2nd Place in Jazz and 5th Place in High Kick for Class AA. Spring 2021 |
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Joranger Open Alumni from Benilde High School, St. Margaret's Academy, BSM, and their families and friends are invited to join us for our annual alumni golf tournament and a day of friendly competition.
Monday
June
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Stay tuned to BSMschool.org/Joranger for more details and registration information.
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Sponsorship opportunities still available! Contact Michael Charles at mcharles@BSMschool.org to sign up for sponsorships by May 1.