A Catholic, college preparatory school, grades 7-12
2501 Highway 100 S. St. Louis Park, MN 55416 952-927-4176
President l Meghan Lind DesLauriers ‘99
Senior High Principal l Stephanie Nitchals
Junior High Principal l Rikki Mortl Chair, Board of Directors l Laura Portz
Crown & Shield Managing Editor l Eden Garman
Contributors l Mary Fran O’Keefe, Rachel Kuzma Olson ’93, Lily Peterson ’23, Carly Schwieters
Greetings from Benilde-St. Margaret’s!
It has been my great joy and honor to lead Benilde-St. Margaret’s into the 2022-2023 school year.
Since I officially took the reins as Interim President in July, it’s been full speed ahead working with our faculty and staff every day. At first, it was surreal to walk the hallways I used to roam as a teenager. Even though the school has evolved in the last two decades (the facilities alone are vastly nicer…), it felt comfortable and familiar because BSM still possesses its very best qualities:
• The BSM community is still second-to-none. The sense of community reaches far beyond the campus or graduation day. Indeed, the phrase “once a Red Knight, always a Red Knight” rings as true today as it did when I graduated. We are incredibly blessed to have such a supportive and generous network of Red Knights.
• BSM faculty and staff still set a high standard. As a mission-based institution, the formation of students is our first priority. The dedication of the entire BSM team is matched only by their enthusiasm, as they go above and beyond to ensure that each student at BSM reaches their full potential.
• BSM still walks with each student on their personal journey. The holistic model of education at BSM is innovative and responsive, ever-progressing to develop well-rounded individuals. BSM’s approach cultivates students into leaders who are prepared for college and life.
• Perhaps most importantly, BSM is still rooted in faith. BSM celebrates its Catholic heritage by nurturing an awareness of God’s presence in our midst; aspiring to welcome and love everyone without distinction; and creating a community rooted in respect for all.
While retaining these core values and distinguishing features, BSM continues to evolve to remain at the forefront of academic learning and the changing realities of a global society. It’s been inspiring to see how BSM has grown, and I’m excited to see how our missionfocused community remains strong in the coming years.
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.
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 and Michael Murray Photography
In this issue of the Crown & Shield, you’ll have an opportunity to join me in celebrating the achievements of a true BSM hero, NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hei. A member of the BSM Class of 1985, Mark returned to Earth in the spring after an American-record 355 days aboard the International Space Station. Mark didn’t graduate from BSM expecting to become an astronaut, yet his time here prepared him to be a leader for NASA’s research and space exploration program. Mark exemplifies what is still at the core of the BSM experience - character, excellence, and fortitude.
If you haven’t been to campus in a while, please come visit! I’d love to give you a tour and showcase the incredible things Benilde-St. Margaret's is doing to share the BSM experience with tomorrow’s explorers and leaders.
In the meantime, I wish you and your families a healthy, joyful fall season.
On the Cover: Anne Marie Khoueir ‘24, Brynja Lockman ‘25, and Jack Shull ‘23 gifted Mark Vande Hei ’85 a special globe on behalf of the student body to represent his view of Earth from the ISS. Mark returned BSM student ID cards to Mateo Figueroa '26 and alumna Anna Carr '18 after flying the ID cards to space.
Homecoming, [hōm’kəmiNG]: an instance of returning home. As is tradition for most schools, Benilde-St. Margaret’s celebrated Homecoming with a week of festivities from Sept. 18-24, 2022, to honor the heritage of BSM, welcome back alumni, and share the spirit and legacy of the institution with current students. For BSM alumnus Mark Vande Hei ’85, this homecoming celebration was twofold.
After setting an American record for the longest continuous spaceflight of 355 days while part of NASA Expedition 65/66 to the International Space Station (ISS), Mark T. Vande Hei (Colonel, U.S. Army Retired) returned to Earth on March 30, 2022. While Vande Hei was embraced by loved ones halfway across the world upon his homecoming, BSM
By Eden Garman
students in Minnesota donned red, white, and blue while enjoying rocket pops in celebration of his achievement. Fast forward to September, and Red Knights were more eager than ever to have a chance to meet and take selfies with an astronaut during Vande Hei’s homecoming to Benilde-St. Margaret’s. Thunderous applause sounded throughout the Great Hall as BSM President Meghan Lind DesLauriers ’99 introduced Vande Hei as the school’s inaugural convocation speaker: “Mark exemplifies key, core values of BSM: excellence, character, and fortitude...A model of success and determination, Mark can inspire all of us to make a difference in the world or beyond as the case
may be.” The school assembly gave students the opportunity to hear firsthand how he went from a student walking the BSM halls to orbiting around the earth every 90 minutes.
Vande Hei presented a video compilation of the epic views from the space station and discussed his favorite science experiments, namely those that produced fresh food to eat like chili peppers! His other favorite pastime was simply looking at the sky and stars, “I spent my first 90 minutes on the space station just looking out the window. It was so gorgeous. I would love for everybody to be able to see what I got to see.”
Throughout his day at BSM, Vande Hei’s remarkable knowledge, humility, and discipline were on full display; he never failed to greet curious students and teachers alike in the hallway while visiting classrooms and holding a question and answer session with junior high Red Knights. Students inquired about a range of topics including his path to becoming an astronaut. Training for his latest mission took two years. Demonstrating an ability to learn Russian was a priority, along with learning to fly high performance aircraft. Vande Hei also learned to operate robotic arms and the international space station systems, even scuba diving
to prepare for spacewalks. Perhaps most valuable beyond his degree in physics from St. John’s University and advanced degree from Stanford were his collaboration and interpersonal skills.
One 1985 classmate noted Vande Hei had exhibited a knack for these skills at an early age. “Mark was a kind, smart person who was friendly when walking through the halls. Nowadays, he’s still known for his extraordinary character, and it’s no surprise he’s an inspiration to many. I’m incredibly proud to have a shared affinity with him through BSM.”
When asked about his time at BSM, Vande Hei recalled the formative experience he had with Campus Minister Mike Jeremiah and the retreat program. “People would make themselves vulnerable during retreats and open up about a lot of things,” Vande Hei shared. This common experience connected his class, “I came away with a recognition that I’m not that different from other people, and a sense of peace came along with that realization.”
During his homecoming visit, Vande Hei attended an alumni gathering to reconnect with classmates and shared memories about their time at BSM. The bonds created nearly forty years ago were still strong, affirming that the “once a Red Knight, always a Red Knight” slogan rings true. Vande Hei was also honored during half-time at the homecoming football game. “I think sports are a really good way to take
a relatively safe situation, heighten the stress level, and then learn how to deal with it,” said Vande Hei, noting, “When I was on the team, it wasn’t just about playing football. It was about bouncing back up when things hurt, learning how to be a member of a team, and recognizing the whole team could fall apart if you didn’t participate.” The crowd at Saturday’s football game erupted in cheers as the current football captains presented him with a team jersey (pictured above).
Vande Hei’s team-first mentality proved invaluable for his work at NASA. “I didn’t fly myself to space. I got to do it on behalf of everyone else,” he said. Before his first spaceflight in 2017, Vande Hei was given two randomly selected BSM student ID cards to accompany him on his mission. During his recent visit back to BSM, Vande Hei personally returned the ID cards to now-alumna Anna Carr ’18 and current student Mateo Figueroa ’26 who accepted on behalf of his older brother Nicolas Figueroa ’20. “It’s all of our experience, and I’m glad I got to share that with this community,” affirmed Vande Hei.
Now that he’s back on Earth, Vande Hei is looking forward to spending time with his family in Houston, Texas. His parents and sister Lisa Vande Hei Dawson ’89 were able to join Mark during his brief visit to BSM and attend
the homecoming festivities with him. After a whirlwind of a homecoming, Vande Hei said, “I was really reminded today that I’m a part of a community – one with a legacy of having really enthusiastic students with a lot of potential. It’s really a joy to be able to reconnect with this group and know that they’re continuing the legacy.”
Class
Class
In 1982, Benilde-St. Margaret’s Campus Minister Mike Jeremiah formed a peer ministry program at BSM that served as a way for members of the senior class to be faith leaders and faith witnesses to younger students and fellow classmates. “The program focused on students being visible and being with other students every day, just noticing and caring for others,” said Jeremiah. “They also worked on the retreat program as small group leaders, led services in the chapel, and served as prayer leaders.”
After some changes within the structure of the retreat program back in 2014, the peer ministry program at BSM went away. But with the challenges that students have faced over the past couple years, Jeremiah explained that there was a need for the ministry to come back and to also be implemented in
the junior high. “I always tell students that we have no idea, as we’re going through the halls, what kids are experiencing and what they’re going through. We need this. The kids need it.”
Peer minister Max Wendt ’23 is looking forward to connecting with his classmates in this way. “A lot of high schoolers struggle to continue their faith or start to question their faith,” he shared, going on to say, “Being able to guide them and join them on that journey is pretty special.” For students to see others their age practicing their faith and encouraging one another in a school setting is a unique and rewarding experience.
The revived peer ministry program will be comprised of 41 members of the Class of 2023
who are also serving as Eucharsitic Ministers this school year.
Over 1,200 grandparents and students gathered at BSM Friday, Oct. 7, 2022, in celebration of BSM’s Grandparents’ Day, a special event that included a shared Mass and breakfast. Grandparents serve an important role in the BSM family, cheering on and supporting their grandchildren throughout their lives. “It’s very special and significant for us to have all of you here today at BSM,” said BSM President Meghan Lind DesLauriers ’99 as she addressed the crowd.
Gerald Gretsch, Jack Jacobsen ’24, and Kathy McGraw Gretsch ’54 celebrated their Benilde-St. Margaret’s connection.
Attendees voiced a similar sentiment. “It’s a meaningful time that we get to share with our grandparents in a special place,” noted current student Sydney Peterson ’27. “We don’t get to see our grandparents too often, and for them to see where we go to school and spend time together is so great. My favorite part was just being able to spend time with them and celebrate Mass together,” she said.
“I love the part of just being able to talk to my grandpa and have time to show him around BSM where I spend so much of my time,” said Annie Libbey ’23. Her grandpa, Steve Alcorn, said, “BSM has always been a special place for our family. All of my kids went here, and now so do some of their kids.” Many students gave tours around the school, pointing out their lockers and favorite classes.
Brian
There was a shared sense of pride from grandparents and students alike throughout the event. After a two-year hiatus, BSM was glad to provide an opportunity to bring the BSM family together.
Claire Prindiville ’23 and Ellen Gallagher posed for a photo on their way to breakfast during the Grandparents’ Day event.
Grandparents’ Day was a day of “connecting” for this group. The Red Knights are all related in some way and their “grands” were here to celebrate with them: back row (l-r) Liam Mikkelson ’26, Verona Mikkelson, Avalyn Mikkelson ’24 , Elliot Huether ’23, Olivia Shiek ’27, Marsha Huether, Makayla Shiek ’24 , Mike Howell, Audrey Howell ’25, Kela Howell, Juli Shiek, Don Shiek, Pam Einck, and Lauren Howell ’25
Elizabeth
Lawless Axtman ’69
Sister of Terri Lawless Landberg ’68
Mary Lawless Pat Lawless Barb Lawless Judy Lawless Benson Mike Lawless
Susanne Baumtrog ’67
Sister of Anne Baumtrog Juster ’66 Michael Dan Joseph Andrew Marianne Baumtrog Pichotta David
Lois Boes
Mother of Karen Oman – deceased Cynthia ’75 – deceased Sandra Boes O’Brien ’78
Gary Bottiger
Father of Julie – deceased Kathryn – deceased Dan ’86 Kevin Molly Bottiger Foley ’95 Patrick ’97
Mary (Duffy) Busch
Mother of Chris ’85 Jennifer ’88 Amy Busch Gjerde ’90
Len Busch
Father of David Sue Busch Ross Jeanne Busch Schmidt ’79 Kate Busch Donlin ’80 Patrick Busch ’82 Theresa Busch Bruton ’85 Peter ’86
J. Patrick and Charlotte Cashin
Parents of Sean ’87
Tim ’88
Amy Cashin Oppegaard ’89 Erin Cashin DiPrima ’91
Loretta Combs
Mother of Timothy Kevin Mary Jo Thomas Terry Casey Combs Garland ’82
Robert Cramer ’70
Brother of Steven ’66
John Dale ’60
Brother of Mary Ellen ’60 Carolyn ’62 Dennis ’63 James ’66 Chris Sheila ’68 – deceased Gregory – deceased
Phil Davenport ’77
Brother of Jennifer Davenport Johnson John Mary Davenport Polsfuss Mike David Joseph ’75 Dan ’79 Teresa ’82
Brian Dillon ’80
Brother of Denise ’75 Kevin ’77 Hugh ’81 Tim ’83 Colleen
Clara Dolan
Mother of Dean ’70 Steve ’72 – deceased Mary Dolan Thue ’74 Teresa ’78 Ann Dolan Jensen ’84
Mother of Andrew ’00 Robert ’05
Craig Drugge ’90
Brother of Wendy Drugge Wuensch ’93
Ursula Foley, CSJ – past faculty
Carolyn Freese
Mother of Ted – staff
David Frye
Father of Tim – faculty
Michael Galpin
Husband of Michelle Mitsch Galpin ’68
Mary Gorrill
Wife of Bill Gorrill ’64 – past staff
Ben Gudden ’74
Brother of Cathy Gudden Smith Mary Gudden Wilson Thomas ’66 Donald
Shari
Sister of J. Neil Jim Bob ’71 – past staff
Stephen Hedges ’77
Brother of Cathy Hedges Schneeman ’75 John ’79 Tim ’82
Father of Kelly Pat ’82 Kevin Mike
Joan Bolduc Jensen ’51
Sister of Nancy Bolduc Earle ’54 Katherine Bolduc Crick
Steven Johnson ’70
Robert Kloehn
Father of Laura Kloehn Saltzstein ’04 Rob ’08
Bill Koster
Father of Nicholas ’84 Benjamin ’85 Christine Koster Rohr ’87 Katherine ’92
Margaret Koster Bittner ’98
Scott Langaard
Brother of Terrence – deceased Nancy Jeff ’73 Bradford
Rose Scheinost Lawson ’61
Daughter of Catherine Baker Scheinost ’22 – deceased Sister of Mary ’54 – deceased Hank – past faculty Joe – deceased
Mary Jean Lenmark
Mother of Voigt ’88 Melissa Lenmark Reller ’90 Katy Lenmark Tanghe ’92 Dan ’95
Annette Link
Mother of Thomas ’70 Frederick ’72 Brian ’74 Deanne Link Patch Gary ’82 Teresa Link Binish ’85
Gary Lyons
Father of Bob – faculty
Mary Rhode McGuire ’45
Sister of Bernardine Rhode Fasching ’48 – deceased
Libbie McKean
Mother of Michael John Jr. Moira McKean Knutson Kevin ’81 Brian ’83 Kathleen McKean Johnson ’88
Barb Marciniak
Mother of Jill Marciniak Christopulos ’85 Terry ’91 Corey Marciniak Deller ’95
Mother of Kathy Mulvehill Colvin ’65 Helen Mulvehill Rockwell ’67 Pat Mulvehill Scott ’68 Joe ’71
Bridget Mulvehill Kanowitz ’76 Mike ’78
Mother of Theresa Neuberger Sells ’73 Joe ’74 Monica ’79 Bob ’81 Andy ’86
Ferrian Parkman ’64
Father of Dave ’85 – faculty Peter ’86 Jessica ’89
Mother of Mary-Lynn Pirner Ryan Lucy David Paul ’89
Son of Catherine Baker Scheinost ’22 – deceased Brother of Hank – past faculty Mary ’54 – deceased Rose Scheinost Lawson ’64 – deceased Husband of Janet – past staff
Father of Rachael ’78 Lisa – deceased Peter ’82
Kristopher ’83 Mark ’86 Andrea Scherer Belton ’93 Maria ’94
Lois Sicora
Mother of Greg ’78 Judy
Hubert and Sharon Vassar Parents of Neil ’95
Nicholas Weber
Son of Judy Kilian Weber ’83
Thaddeus Wilderson
Father of Troy ’83 Dina ’86
Lori Wilderson Jupiter ’88 Marc
Yvonne Huyck Williams ’46
If your graduation year ends in a 2 or a 7, 2022 is your reunion year.
Check the BSM website for the most up-to-date reunion information at BSMschool.org/reunions. If you would like to plan an event for your class, contact Rachel Kuzma Olson ’93 at rkuzmaolson@BSMschool.org for more information.
BEN 1964: Friday, Dec 2, 11:30 a.m, McCoy’s Public House, Excelsior Blvd. & Grand, 3801 Grand Way. It has become a splendid tradition for well over 20 years, and we hope to see many of you on the first Friday in December. RSVP to Doug Barber at barberd@divetechusa.com or 612-816-1046.
BSM 2017: Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022, 5 p.m. Park Tavern 11th Frame, 3401 Louisiana Ave S, St. Louis Park. There is no cost to attend. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Please RSVP to reunion contact Mark Racchini at markracc17@gmail.com by Monday, Nov. 14, for an accurate headcount.
BSM 2012: Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, 7-9 p.m. Graze Provisions + Libations, 520 N. 4th St. Minneapolis. There is no cost to attend. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Please RSVP to reunion contact Julia Weber at julia.m.weber3@gmail.com by Friday, Nov. 18, for an accurate headcount.
Come to BSM and visit with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 3, 9:30-11:30 a.m. This fun and casual event is for the whole family. Kick off the holidays with a memorable morning at your alma mater! RSVP to Mary Fran O’Keefe at mfokeefe@BSMschool.org.
BSM invites the Class of 2022 back on Tuesday, Dec. 20, from 10-11:30 a.m. following the Christmas Assembly for doughnuts and socializing in the Atrium. Please RSVP to Mary Fran O’Keefe at mfokeefe@BSMschool.org by Friday, Dec. 16. We look forward to seeing you!
Men’s Alumni Hockey
Saturday, Dec. 24, 9 a.m. St. Louis Park Rec Center
Women’s Alumni Hockey
Saturday, Dec. 24, 9:45 a.m. ROC, St. Louis Park
Men’s Alumni Basketball
Saturday, Dec. 24, 10 a.m. Haben Center
Hall of Honor
Monday, Jan. 30, 2022 5:30 p.m. BSM Great Hall Learn more at BSMschool.org/hallofhonor
St. Margaret’s alumnae met for their 72-year reunion at Dolittle’s Woodfire Grill in Golden Valley on Sept. 22. There were nine in attendance, and many others wished they could have joined the fun: front row (l-r) Marilyn Baron Zastrow, Mary Heckman Gaffney, Carol Wintheiser Archambo, Nancy Amireault McNamee, and Maxine Johnson Zappa; back row (l-r) Donna O’Keefe Schiefelbein, Donna Terlouw Wallander, Veronica Mortl Fashant, and Claire Nagel Ready.
This fall, Doug Burnikel announced his retirement from coaching the BSM bowling team. Doug’s years of service made a profound difference in the lives of the many students he coached. His dedication to the team is unparalleled, and his knowledge of the sport, having 20 perfect games, will be greatly missed. Doug continues to support the team as he courageously fights cancer with his wife CC at his side. Both current students and alumni want to express their profound gratitude for his years of service. He is pictured with bowling coaches and BSM teachers John Sabol (left) and Max Johnson (right).
Ric Rosow was honored by the Minnesota State Bar Association Public Law Section as a 2022 recipient of the Douglas K. Amdahl Public Attorney Career Achievement Award. The award is designed to recognize the outstanding efforts of public sector attorneys throughout their careers. Ric was honored for the caliber of his work, his achievements, and his demonstrated commitment to public service. He is pictured with his son Michael, also an attorney and BSM current parent, and his wife, Vicki Underland-Rosow.
Graduates celebrated 50-years in a belated reunion celebration on Sept. 8 at Brookview Golf Club in Golden Valley: first row (l-r) Patricia Bowar Munson, Patricia Campion Gjertson, Cheryl Kowal Artmann, LuAnne Speeter, Gloria Maas, Mary Teynor, and Kerry Casserly-Carter; second row (l-r) Joan Theisen McNeely, Anna Logan, Mary Ann McNeil, Barbara Barnett Leonard, Mary Regan Gilbertson, Cassia Schmitz, Monica Brinkman Blackman, Sandra Fyle, Jane Lundeen Goodrich, Bridget Carr Pirsch, and Catherine Calva Cather; third row (l-r) Patricia Johnson Schatz, Cheryl Dovenberg, Nan Corbett, Teri Johnson Kienast, Diane Battaglia Beddor, LaDonna Raskob Kartak, Colleen Keenan Wynne, Barb Katzmarek Hanson, Gail Cremers Ketter, Teresa Arms Christensen, Laura Hebert Inglis, Nancy Nelson, Laurie Marben Jenniges, and Barbara Kennedy; fourth row (l-r) Mary Hanson Schabert, Bonnie Boller-Gormley, Diane McMonagle Wright, Elizabeth Lang Derichs, Cynthia Fashant Collins, Lynette Williams McCool, Ann Marie Wanchena Croteau, Maggie Sochacki Clow, Marlena Bromschwig, and Mary O’Rourke Wickersham; fifth row (l-r) Jeanne Van Drasek Engwall, Susan Shima, Maureen Hunt Hallenberg, Deborah Carlin Skinner, Ann Peterson, Shelley McDonald, Loie Lenarz, Linda Grotz Johnson, and Susan Myers Bennett.
October for her outstanding athletic performance on the track. She was coached in college by fellow-hall-of-famer and current BSM language teacher and BSM parent Megan Hansen.
An American Tale the Musical, based on the 1986 animated film, makes its world premiere April 25–June 18, 2023, at the Children’s Theatre Company in Minneapolis. The lyrics and book were written by Tony Award-winning playwright Itamar Moses. Michael Mahler ‘00, and musical partner Alan Schmuckler, penned the music and lyrics for the stage production.
Classmates celebrated their 40-year reunion at Bunny’s on Aug. 20: photo 1 (l-r) Jason Owens, Denise Owens and Peter Scherer; photo 2 (l-r) Martha Herber Burns and Lisa Fitzgerald Miller; photo 3 (l-r) Doug Heider, Dave Hermes, Tim Evon, Ann Lawton Marshall, Mike Rooney, and Gordon Hendrickson.
Sheila Lynch and Kay Lynn Teske Hartmann enjoyed camping with their kids in the Flat Tops Wilderness, Colorado: (l-r) Emmet Butler, Sheila, Keira Butler, Una Butler, Kay Lynn, and Kylee Hartmann.
Tony Nelson and Sally Roth were married on Aug. 20 in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
Maggie Kukar and Ryan Sinn welcomed baby Eddie into the world on May 27.
Annalise George was selected as one of 37 individuals across Minnesota to participate in the Humphrey Policy Fellows program for demonstrated leadership in her career as a front line nurse. Since 2015, she has provided care at Regions Hospital Emergency Department, a level one trauma center that sees close to 90,000 patient visits per year.
Kevin Quealy has been named editor of The Upshot, the website published by the New York Times. Kevin has been with The Times since 2008 and he joined The Upshot when it began in 2014. The Upshot is home for some of The Times’s most imaginative statistical thinking and data visualization.
2000
Red Knight and current BSM teacher Andretta “Angie” Colley Hanson was inducted into the University of St. Thomas Athletic Hall of Fame in late
Classmates gathered for a reunion celebration on Oct. 1 at Tattersall Distilling. Friends came from near and far to reminisce about their high school memories: back row (l-r) Dana Stack, Emily Koch Kraft, Jacob Carlson, Ryan Brackin, John Paulson, Peter Carlson, Robbie Gustafson, Susan Martinson Biwer, Bill Biwer, Dan Weber, Justin Mangold, Katherine Justak Mangold, Ian Pfaff, Ted Koshiol, Max Richter; middle row (l-r) Sean Danahy, Lori Snook, Ali Britton, Angelica Stockdale McFarlane, Sarah Thorsen Kluck, Emily Irrgang Anderson, Erica Lundberg, Mamie Swaggert Elbing, Kim Moynihan, Desiree Brose Jacobson ’01, Ian Wexler, Nolan Jacobson, Bridget Carlson, Ellie Dahmen Clifford, Justine Chatterton, Laura Mahler, Nicole Arne, Jackie Rubi, Jodie Flaherty Murray, Annie Olson Caparoso, Ryan McNaught, Ryan Abts, Billy Graves, Brian Fitzgerald, John Keymer, John Dickoff: front row (l-r) Kerry Cooley Bruggeman, Luke Kaster ’99, Jillian Periolat Kaster, Andrew George, Serene Aandahl, Sarah Rauth Polovitz, Evan Carpenter, Lisa Lang, Tony Cipolle, and Matt Mulvahill.
Andrew Offerman was recently appointed the New York Racing Association Vice President and General Manager of Operations. In this role, he will oversee front-side operations at Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park, and Saratoga Race Course.
Parker Brook started a gluten-free healthy cereal company called LoveBird. LoveBird is a nutrient-rich superfood cereal promoting gut health. This immunity boosting, grain-free formula has no refined sugar and is free of inflammatory ingredients.
Jordan Taylor was inducted into the Wisconsin Badgers Athletic Hall of Fame on Sept. 9. His outstanding athletic career at Wisconsin left its mark as a Top 10 scorer with 1,215 points. Jordan still holds the number 9 all-time scoring record for the Badgers. During his time as a Red Knight he led Benilde-St. Margaret’s to the 2008 Minnesota Class 3A state title and was named Mr. Basketball after averaging 22 points per game, finishing as the school’s all-time leading scorer.
Matt Couri and Brittany Johnson Couri announce the birth of their first child, Lillian, on Aug. 27.
Will Dunn was recently promoted to a full assistant coach with the Houston Rockets. His promotion was part of the reworking of the Rockets coaching staff under Stephen Silas. Dunn began his career with the Rockets in 2019 as the team’s video coordinator.
Sanjay Lumpkin is a player development coach with the Utah Jazz. Sanjay is in his third year with the Jazz.
Rachel Frenz and Brian Kampfe met at Santa Clara University and were married on Aug. 6, in Red Lodge, Montana. The couple lives in Bozeman, Montana. Rachel is a revenue manager at Invitae and Brian is a program manager at Zendesk.
After graduating from Minnesota State University in Mankato with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies, Denis Beaird went on to earn an MBA from Concordia University in 2022. He started a technology company in 2020 called, I Know Nothing Tech.
Elizabeth Goulet and Andrew Larson were married on March 19 in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Elizabeth is a co-coach for the BSM varsity dance team with Sam Cameranesi. Assistant coaches for the dance team include alums Lauren Chevalier ’19 and Jacqueline Bieter ‘14.
Rachel Thorstenson graduated with highest distinction from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in May 2022. She is now starting her three-year Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics residency program at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.
Lea Ale is pursuing her doctorate on full scholarship to the University of Southern California. She graduated with honors with a double master’s degree from Arizona State University.
Matt Lynch conducted his student teaching and observations at BSM in Adam George’s junior high classroom this fall while getting his degree from The College of St. Scholastica.
Former BSM hockey standout Megan Cornell signed a professional contract to play with Swedish club Farjestad for the 2022-2023 season.
Tracy Renier graduated Egregia Cum Laude from the College of Saint Benedict with a bachelor’s degree in economics and minors in Hispanic studies and communication. A 4.0 student and standout athlete, she will embark on a two-year-plus service stint with the Peace Corps in Colombia where she will remain until Nov. 2024. Tracy will work in community economic development with an emphasis on female entrepreneurial advancement.
Proud Jayhawks Andrew Cadle and Alexa Reynders graduated from the University of Kansas on May 14 after attending K-8 at St. Hubert’s and 9-12 at BSM together. Andrew graduated from the architecture and design program with a bachelor’s degree in design, visual communications. He is currently attending Georgetown University in a master’s of professional studies program studying sports industry management. Alexa graduated with a B.S. in pharmaceutical studies and certificate in service learning. She completed the University Honors Program in the spring with plans to graduate with a doctorate in pharmacy in May 2024.
Peter (Frankie) Lynch is a member of the cross country team at the Washington University in St. Louis. He is enrolled in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
Andie Jia is pursuing a degree in education and a minor in mathematics at Arizona State University.
James Callahan, defenseman and captain of the Springfield Jr. Blues of the North American Hockey League, announced his commitment to play NCAA Division 1 hockey for the Air Force Academy.
Michelle Doering was named NCAA Div III All-America Scholar Athlete by the 2021-2022 National Fastpitch Coaches Association.
This fall, the College of St. Benedict’s red hot soccer offense was fueled by freshman Alli Voss. Alli had two goals in a 4-1 win over Luther College in September.
After backstopping Benilde-St. Margaret’s to the 2022 state boys’ lacrosse championship, goaltender Justin Dalum was named the 2022 Jake Anderson Mr. Goalie during the post-season awards ceremony July 16. Dalum posted 114 saves with a 3.90 goals against average leading up to a third consecutive state final between Prior Lake and BSM. The Red Knights finished off a perfect 19-0 record with back-toback state titles in a 10-9 overtime win over Prior Lake on June 18.
Three BSM lacrosse players were named Boys’ All-Americans after their 19-0 season and state championship finish: Sam Pikul, Justin Dalum, and Caio Stephens ’23. Sam will compete at the Catholic University and Justin will continue playing at Cleveland State.
Tilly Wolfe was named All-American and All-Academic American for her efforts on the BSM girls’ lacrosse team last spring. Tilly attends Clemson University.
Angela Zbaracki was awarded the John Philip Sousa Award for outstanding band performance in the senior class last May.
Tommies linebacker Ryan Sever made many plays on the University of St. Thomas football special teams this fall. His blocked punt may have been one of the biggest plays in his freshman debut in early September.
Montana Wedding - Red Knights from 1969 to 2028 gathered to celebrate the marriage of Rachel Frenz Kampfe ’13 and Brian Kampfe on August 6, 2022, in Red Lodge, Montana: (l-r) Molly Ferraro Litecky ’84, Mary Frenz Paquette ’85, John Frenz ’73, Allie Goenner ’28, Emily Grace Goenner ’97, Anna Goenner ‘26, John O’Leary ’99, Ellen Grace Westin ’01, Brian Grace ’93, Sarah Frenz ’19, Paul Frenz ’76, Rachel Frenz Kampfe ’13, Brian Kampfe, John O’Leary ’69, Emily Egge ’13, Andrew Frenz ’10, Stephen Frenz ’82, Eleanor Scott ’13, Charlie Kraemer ’18, Shannon Kraemer ’13, Jennifer Frenz Wilson ’07, Joe Frenz ’78, and Jessica Frenz Radtke ’05.
Montana Vacation - A group of classmates and friends vacationed together in Montana in June: (l-r) Paul Kruth ’85, Marty O’Brien ’85, Mark Vande Hei ’85, George Huber, Julie Vande Hei, Cate Kruse Kruth ’85, Anne Marrs Huber ’85, Mary Igel Trudell ’85, Mike Hoffman ’85, Mike Mojica ’85, Kathy Endres, and Mark Endres ’85. Missing from the picture is Steve Trudell.
Murray Brothers - Brothers (left to right) Steve, Sean ’89, Chris, and Dan Murray celebrated the life of Thomas Murray, Sr. by planting a tree to commemorate his passing in March 2021. Three Murray sons are BSM alums: Thomas, Jr. ’79, Patrick ’88, and Sean ’89.
Chicago Barbecue - Chris Bowler ’83 hosted Red Knight friends and 1983 classmates at a barbecue in Chicago: front Steve Randall; back (l-r) Chris Bowler, Matt Schumacher, Dave Lucke, Katie Kunert, Molly Warren Sachse, and John Simons .
Golf Outing - Members of the Class of 1982 spent time on the golf course over their reunion weekend: (l-r) Mike Rooney, Mike Lamb, Scott Simonett, Gordon Hendrickson, and John Gordon.
Class of 1972 in Provence, France - St. Margaret’s friends met in Sister Carol’s freshman homeroom in 1968 and have been best friends ever since. They traveled to France in 2022: (l-r) Diane Egan Slayton, Anita Otten Olson, Cynthia Burke Rodahl and Lyn Arnold Berglund.
Alumni Soccer - Graduates met in early August to challenge the varsity hopefuls on the BSM pitch: back row (l-r) Cameron Carter ’22. Bennett Miller ’22, Tenekay Johnson ’22, Riley Floresch ’22, Teddy Dayton ’20, Nick Burlage ’21, Luca Platt ’21, Sam Siegel-Horn ’20, Mason Gilliand ’22, Drew Clark ’22, Conor Keady ’22, Hans Backes ’21, Nate Charles ’21, Ryan Lothenbach ’21, Coach Dave Platt ’85; front row (l-r) Chris Welscher ’18, Ronan Brew ’20, Nick Figueroa ’20, Thomas Forby ’19, Santi Lambert ’18, Noah Twesten ’17, John Mulvahill ’12, and Abe Fortier ’15.
Friend Reunion - BSM friends who had not seen each other in 25 years caught up over dinner at Lat 14 in Golden Valley: (lr) Lori Wilderson Jupiter ’88, Karen Abel ’88, Valerie Jakucki Fazendin ’88, and Courtney Burns ’89.
Birthday Celebration - Alumni gathered for a surprise milestone birthday party for Lisa Leba Rasmussen at the Horse & Hunt Club in Prior Lake on August 11: (l-r) Maureen McManus Decker ’90, Samantha Kukar Herrmann ’90, Lisa Leba Rasmussen ’90, Maggie Kukar ’93 (with Eddie), and Bob Leba ’93.
50-Year Reunion - Benilde High School graduates hosted a 50-year reunion at Jax on Sept. 24: back (l-r) Dave Simpson, Tom Day, Mark Graham, Mike Fasching, Chris Pattock. Greg Sommers, John Holewa, John Cassady, Keith Johnson, Greg Olson, and Greg Hull; front row (l-r) Rob Keiser, Joe Boller, John “Skip” Suss, Jim Bortolussi, Mark Williams, Dan Delmore, Tom Shackle, Greg Blevins, Tom Linnihan, Jim Dalsin, Tim Cavanaugh, John Senesscall, and Dave Cavanaugh.
Football Fun - Classmates from the Class of 1994 reunited in the stands at the homecoming football game: (l-r) Cybill Bridges, Sara Wartman Dooley, and Libby Dooley Hankey.
50-Year Reunion Celebration! SMA 1972 St. Margaret’s classmates met on Oct. 16 at the BLVD for a 50-year reunion: front row (l-r) Marcie Malat, Julie Ruff Pink, Mary Lou Ambrose, Jeannie Ferrian, and Sue Bania Talerico; middle row (l-r) Suzanne Kusz Rolfes, Lorraine Batteen Kothrade, Janice Stitt Audette, Mary Tigue-Velardi, Monia Leverone Keogh, Diane Egan Slayton, Renee Blewett Samuelson, Lynette Zyvoloski Gliniany, Annette Zyvoloski Hayes, Katherine Hill, and Sally Burt Kraft: back row (l-r) Joan Hughes, Gerda Haeger Carlson, Stephanie Betlach Hokanson, Patty Jarl Larson, Cindy Burke Rodahl, Monica (Molly) McCormick, Ellen Dwyer Schnobrich, Lynn Choromanski, Shelly Lambert Weingarten, Julie Madden Reeve, Mary Scherber Martin, Lyn Arnold Berglund, Mary Meade Streier, Roseann Hartnett McMahon, and Jeanne Trombley.
Red Knight Cousins - A family gathering presented an opportunity for Red Knight cousins to convene: back row Nate Charles ’21, Sam Charles ’18, Matthew Ormsby ’21; front row Alex Ormsby '15 and Drew Ormsby '17, along with Alex's fiancé Meghan Ortizcazarin '15.
’20, Tommy Beutz ’20, Zach Carden ’20, Nick Marinaro ’21 and Charlie Damberg ’21.
21st Birthday - Red Knights were in Madison to celebrate the 21st birthday of Brady Giertsen ’20: (l-r) fellow Badger Charlie Deterding ’20, Rachel Kuzma Olson ’93, Mary Fran O’Keefe, Peter Giertsen ’23, Brady, and Molly Giertsen ’24.
40th Annual Lilliput Tournamen t - The Lilliput location might change, but the boys from 1984 never veer from their annual tradition. Gathered for the 40th time are: (clockwise) Paul Bennett, Joe Riley, Mike Rogers, Jim White, Kelly Keady, Mike Foley, and Dan McGie.
Door County Wedding - Tony Nelson and Sally Roth celebrated their wedding in Door County with friends: (l-r) Natalie Tritz Fowler ’91, Tina Jansen White ’91, Sally ’91, Tim Nelson ’86 (behind), Tony ’91, and Erik Fossum ’91.
Red Knights were on hand to celebrate with Jordan Taylor ’08 when he was inducted into the Wisconsin Badger Athletic Hall of Fame: John Moore ’74 (Jordan’s high school basketball coach), Rachel Kuzma Olson ’93, Mary Fran O’Keefe, and Jordan.
SMA 1960 - Classmates from St. Margaret’s Academy met at Jax on Aug. 26 for a 60th reunion and 80th birthday party: (l-r) first row Rose Holland Linnihan, Phyllis Wagner Hughes, Pat Vashro Trombley, Pat Toohey Flaherty, Judy Merchant Nelson, Phyllis Morgan Nayak, and Barb Etzel; second row (l-r) Kathy Goleski Jahr, Mary Ellen Barber Gilliland, Mary Jo Kalitowski Mleziva, Kathy Moore Potoski, Mary Jo Steinberg Bonin, Jane Fischer Clarke, Mary McGuire Forpahl, Patricia Ferrara, Judy Drury Mulryan, Karla McGraw Williams Carol Novecki Soderberg, Carol Piazza Marnell, Shaon Varner Pelant, Judy Gordhamer, and Trombley-Turnquist; third row (l-r) Michele Peters Copperud, Marge Sexton Savage, Rose Ann Vogt, Jane Murray Marrin, Renee Smith-Miller, Tallis Hardey, Renee Toussaint Scherman, and Sharon Myers.
Friends and Foes - BSM teacher and coach John Porisch was in Aberdeen, South Dakota, when the Northern State Wolves played the Winona State Warriors. He is pictured with Ikenna Ujuagu ’18, a junior linebacker for Winona State and John’s son Daniel ’22, an offensive lineman for Northern State. The Porisch family was happy with the 42-21 victory.
Shavers in Wyoming - The Shaver alums posed for a Red Knight photo in Wyoming on a recent trip and even caught up with Spencer’s classmate, Reilly Dillon: (l-r) Craig Shaver ’09, Emma Dugan Shaver, Mo Hastings Shaver ’79, Spencer Shaver ’13, and Reilly Dillon ’12.
Red Knights Genevieve Larson ’23, Vivienne Larson ’23, and Matthew Robinson ’23 were named Semifinalists in the highly competitive National Merit Scholarship Program by scoring in the top 1% of all high school seniors who took the PSAT nationwide.
Additionally, Valentine Coppo ’23, Megan Cornell ’23, Kent Gerads ’23, Lillian Hertel ’23, Aidan Marks ’23, Philip McCaffrey ’23, and Ryan Souka ’23 received Commended Scholar recognition.
BSM’s new Red Knight mascot, Victor E. Knight, was welcomed into the BSM community after being knighted by the Homecoming King and Queen at the pep fest.
Ryan
The BSM girls’ soccer team tied for 3rd place with Mankato East in the MSHSL Class AA State Tournament after an exciting fall season.
BSM has nine students interning with the Twin Cities Film Festival this fall including Sophie Corneliuson ’25, McKenzie McMoore ’25, Mel Peacock ’23, Ania Cooper ’23, Annabelle Nicholson ’24, Carson Ray ’24, Ben Watts ’24, Izzy Steinbring ’23, and Milly Valadez Rodrigue ’23.
The BSM girls’ tennis team earned its seventh straight Metro West Conference championship title after going 16-5 during the regular season.
A group of Red Knight students and teachers traveled to Guatemala over the summer for the 2022 Mission Trip, serving with The God’s Child Project (GCP) to build homes for families in need.
Fall Sports State Tournament Updates
Volleyball BSM's volleyball team qualified for the MSHSL State Tournament for the first time since 1983.
Miss Minnesota Jr. Pre-Teen Mallory Habstritt ’28 was named Miss Minnesota Jr. Pre-Teen in the National American Miss pageant in July.
The BSM girls’ cross country qualified for the state meet. Vivienne Larson ’23 took first place at sections, qualifying as an individual for the state meet alongside teammates Sofia Rokala ’28 and Genevieve Larson ’23 whose top ten finishes also earned them a spot in the individual competition. Oliver Foley ’24 qualified as an individual state contender for the boys’ competition.
Girls' Swim and Dive Red Knights competed at sections in midNovember to qualify for the Class A State Tournament.
*At the time of print, these athletes were still competing in their postseason.
2021-2022
Leslie Cadle
Adam Ehrmantraut, BSM President
Br. Chris Englert, FSC
Sheila Folkestad
Maureen Weber Grazzini ’86
Shane Huether
Patrick Kocourek ’85
Fr. Jim Liekhus ’97
Sean Lumpkin ’88
Tom Lynch ’85
Nadia Aboussir Martyn ’05
Jason Matz
Fran McCloskey, Treasurer
Biz McShane Murphy ’96
Sr. Joan Mitchell, CSJ
Laura Portz, Chair
Ann Ruff ’73
Mark Sanderson
Perry Schmidt
Charles Scott
John Theisen ’06
Jim Vogl, Past Chair
John Vonhof ’86, Secretary
The past year at Benilde-St. Margaret’s has been a time of transitions. We’ve successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, initiated the process of identifying a new president, and graduated the Class of 2022. We’ve done all of this and more while remaining committed to being a leader in Catholic education for families across the Twin Cities.
I am honored to serve as chair of the BSM Board of Directors as we enter the 2022-2023 school year knowing our community is well positioned to continue providing an outstanding level of education for every Red Knight. At BSM, our vibrant academic programs and co-curricular activities offer a wide range of learning opportunities thanks to the dedication and creativity of our faculty and staff. Led by our interim President, Meghan Lind DesLauriers ’99, and her leadership team, BSM is a place where students receive the knowledge and skills to thrive and contribute meaningfully to a global society.
BSM wisely invests in the programs and resources that make a difference in the life of every student. An example of this is the recent upgrade made to the guidance and college counseling area on campus. Expanded and revamped, the space provides students with even better opportunities to engage with our team of counselors, matching their passions and interests with activities and programs at BSM and helping them find ways to thrive today and beyond.
It’s clear to me that our existing families and alumni believe in the BSM mission. It’s reflected in the record-level of financial support from the highest number of donors and alumni donors we’ve ever had in a single year. Thank you for supporting what BSM does for each student.
The financial commitments made in fiscal year 2022 ensures we can bridge the gap between our tuition revenue and the cost of our programs. This also means more families can be part of the Red Knight community thanks to the available $1.9 million in tuition assistance.
Our community provides an enriching educational experience for students from different backgrounds, and it’s wonderful to see that lived out in so many ways at BSM. I am grateful to be part of this community and invite you to join me in giving thanks for the blessings our Lord provides for BSM.
Benilde-St. Margaret’s is a special place with a strong community, a commitment to educational excellence, and a dynamic vision for the future. Together, we can ensure future generations are blessed to become Red Knights with opportunities to learn, grow, and be exceptional.
With gratitude,
Laura Portz
2021-2022 Board Chair
BSM’s Hall of Honor is a recognition program designed to honor the heritage of BSM, salute the dedication and service of our volunteer community, and reward the professional commitment of employees.
The 2023 honorees have made a significant contribution to the lives of many at Benilde-St. Margaret’s and the greater community. Your attendance at this dinner and awards ceremony would be a meaningful tribute to them.