Pandemic Inspires Ingenuity
CROWN & SHIELD Fall 2020 | Volume 47, Number 1
President's Letter Walking around the halls of Benilde-St. Margaret’s is unforgettable this year as the fundamental elements of education collide with the challenge of maintaining a safe environment during a pandemic. Faculty members work closely with students in the classroom and online. Joyful connections between young people are ever-present, but smiles can only be seen in their eyes. Students are still exploring, creating, and learning despite regular rounds of surface-sanitization. Athletic teams and co-curricular activities carry on with enormous student participation despite the host of adaptations in play. There are many emotions that come to the forefront when thinking about BSM this year, but the word gratitude dominates my mind.
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, M.Ed Chair, Board of Directors l Jim Vogl Crown & Shield Managing Editors l Mary Fran O’Keefe and Rachel Kuzma Olson ‘93 Contributors l Eden Garman, Devin Harrington ‘05, 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.
Since the summer, our dedicated faculty members have worked tirelessly to reinvent our instructional model to simultaneously meet the needs of students in the classroom and at home. Daily, our teachers adapt curriculum and invent new approaches to cultivate relationships despite masks and computer screens and an evolving set of challenges. Staff members continually revamp their efforts knowing personal connections at the heart of their work are vastly limited. Despite these hurdles, our faculty and staff have pushed forward brilliantly on behalf of our students. Our students have been forced to learn new vocabulary and adopt a different lifestyle. At school, they learn distanced from one another while many of their classmates are attending virtually at home. Occasionally, students are in the classroom while teachers provide virtual instruction from off campus. Social interactions, so important to adolescent development, have been altered to allow for physical distance. Through it all, our students have demonstrated an incredible resiliency. Alumni from all over the world have reached out in the past seven months to see how they can help. New partnerships have been formed connecting BSM graduates to professional networks around the country. Mentorships have been established to guide our students and alumni during their academic and professional journeys. Several alumni have joined board of directors’ committees to guide the school forward. Parents and benefactors have stepped up in so many ways to ensure BSM can deliver on our mission now and well into the future. The Parent Association has figured out new ways to welcome families and students. Booster clubs have helped make our athletic and co-curricular activities a reality. Families are working within the school mitigation guidelines to keep students in school. We are also approaching the end of a large-scale, comprehensive fundraising campaign where individuals and families have funded student tuition assistance resources, new science labs, the Atrium, and additional classrooms. The Cube, the exciting new collaboration center that is currently under construction, will be ready for our students before the end of 2020. While the experiences this year are challenging, I feel a sense of deep gratitude every single day when I walk into the school knowing we get to play our own unique part in this unforgettable year. God’s work is on display as BSM educators stir the intellect and soul of our young people in ways we never could have imagined a year ago. And never have we been more grateful for the support and dedication of our community, fitting for this Thanksgiving season. In the months ahead I pray your families experience more of God’s grace and blessings.
Photography provided by CT Ryan Photography
Dr. Adam Ehrmantraut President 2
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Table of Contents Cover Story - BSM Adapts to a New Normal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Retirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 In Memoriam/Bulletin Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 BSM Buzz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Alumni News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Alumni Album . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Board of Directors Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 The Cube (C3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Annual Report Financial Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Annual Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Virtual Grandparents’ Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
On the Cover: Bob Lyons conducts Forensics class with students attending in different learning models. In-person students with Bob Lyons are: (l-r) Lucy Hanson ‘21, Myka Field ‘21, and Charlie Juckniess ‘21. Virtual students on the screen are: (clockwise) Parker Skelton ‘21, Anna Podein ‘21, Carson Sando ‘21 and Wauneen Nieves ‘21.
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BSM Adapts
New Normal
to a
The beginning of the 2020-2021 academic school year looked very different at Benilde-St. Margaret’s. In order to minimize the transmission of COVID-19 among students, faculty, and community members, extensive investments were made in technology infrastructure in classrooms and common learning areas. Enhanced HVAC systems were installed throughout the building, and adjustments were made to food service, transportation, student schedules, athletics, and attendance policies. In addition to requiring masks indoors and incorporating social distancing protocols into daily routines, a blockschedule quarter system was used to limit the number of daily classes for students and teachers. Students were divided into cohorts and a hybrid model for 10th-12th graders split attendance into an everyother-day system. Seventh, eighth, and ninth graders were offered the option of attending school daily on campus or using the hybrid structure, and all students were given the option to enroll in a complete distance learning model. One thing that everyone has learned this school year is to be flexible. Change will be inevitable as the year progresses, but BSM students, staff, and faculty are prepared to change course and adapt as needed!
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Start the Day
Temperature monitoring equipment was installed at school entrances and highspeed thermal imaging cameras are used to detect the presence of elevated body temperatures. As students enter the school, these cameras detect fevers. Those with temperatures greater than 100◦F are not admitted to school and parents are contacted.
Go to Class
The classroom experience in the senior high was expanded to include outdoor spaces in the fall. Students in John Porisch’s Biology 10 class met on a sunny fall afternoon on the grassy area near the softball field. Students learning virtually connected through zoom at the beginning of the class and continued working in small groups online when the in-person classroom moved outside.
Go to Lunch
After 20 years of ministering to the hungry BSM community, Lynn Mrs. Lynn Lynch Lynch was not going to let COVID-19 get in her way. As the Taher Food Service Director, Lynn has created a culture of hard work, service, and fun in the kitchen. She and her staff are creative, welcoming, and always working to make things better for BSM — and 2020 is no exception! Though things are different this year, care and understanding for each student and faculty/staff member remain the top priority. Lingering in the kitchen to visit with Raul, Grady, or Weezy might not be possible, but Lynn, Sherri, and others
are out front to personally hand each item to students. Masks, gloves, and hairnets are the fashion of the day, but smiling eyes and kind words are still evident and in style. Lunch practices were completely altered in order to keep students safely distanced from each other. Tables were removed from the cafeteria and commons, and students were divided into seven sections with approximately 100 students per section. Plexiglass between the workers in the cafeteria and students adds another layer of safety for everyone. Students stand six feet apart in lines of red dots waiting to pick up a pre-packaged meal and then choose to eat lunch in one of three locations: Great Hall, Haben Center, or outside. Tables lined up at a safe distance from each other give students space to remove their masks and eat their lunch.
The omelet bar, sundae bar, hydration station, and soup bar might be on hiatus, but diners can still get chicken fried steak on the first Thursday of the month, and seasoned potatoes, breakfast sandwiches, and scones are always available to start the day. The spaghetti is delicious at the table in the Great Hall or Haben Center, and COVID-19 will definitely not put a damper on the tasty turkey dinner before Thanksgiving. Some things change – but the really important touches Outdoor lunch remain the same! The was also a popular mother of three Red Knights - Sarah choice for students on sunny ’05, Jon ’08, fall days. Many students took and Sam ’14 – advantage of this change in Lynn knows the protocol to breathe in fresh air mind and stomach and catch up with friends of a teenager. She is always fair, on the BSM grounds. understanding, friendly, and fun. According to one student, “Mrs. Lynch is so nice and so funny. She is always so helpful.”
Play a sport
After the spring stay-at-home order, sports returned in June and quickly ramped up for a busy summer and fall. Coaches and athletes learned what a pod meant, adapted to temperature checks and health screenings, and found that a hand sanitizing break from practice was as critical as a water break. Over 620 athletes participated in 14 BSM sports programs over the summer, and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) entered the speed dial on Athletics/Activities Director Jerry Pettinger’s phone. As always, the BSM community responded, and parents, coaches, and athletes followed MDH guidance as athletes participated safely in their chosen endeavor. With new information, changing schedules, limitations on fans, and team protocols put into place, what was happening one day could easily change the next as the Red Knights entered the fall season. Volleyball and football were cancelled at the beginning of the school year but allowed to start in October. Cross county needed 2.5 kilometer sites for meets as schedules with large team invitationals were canceled and only 2-3 teams could participate in a meet. Live streaming became the best friend of a swim parent if they wanted an opportunity to see their daughter swim. Tennis players masked up as a record number of BSM girls took to the courts, and BSM earned the Metro West Conference Championship. Varsity soccer families tracked the number of tickets used per game as no event allowed a crowd larger than 250. The one constant through the fall, and moving into the winter season, is change. Procedures and practices are constantly adapted to assure that as BSM moves through this most unusual school year, Red Knights are ready to respond.
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Show
When the Minnesota Department of Health strongly recommended that schools limit personnel to essential workers, the status of the Spirit Shop came into question. Typically the shop is open every school day from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and is staffed by over 50 volunteers. In addition to clothing many students, parents, and alums, the shop generates significant funds donated to the Parent Association for student programs.
your
Spirit
Fortunately, with a little ingenuity, a lot of rearranging, and permission to use the stadium ticket booth, the shop found a new and safe home outside. Through October 13, the stadium shop was open each day from 1-3:30 p.m. and also at home soccer and football games. Minnesota weather will require more
Enjoy Warm Red Knight Memories Faribault Woolen Mill Co. has produced an exclusive BSM blanket. This classic heirloom-quality blanket is composed of soft 80 percent virgin wool with a touch of cotton (dry clean only). The blanket features the Red Knight logo and detailed rounded corners with contrasting stitching as edging. Approximately 50 x 65, this is a wonderful stadium companion or an accent to any bedroom. It’s the perfect gift or keepsake for any BSM fan or graduate. Stock is limited. The $150 purchase price includes a donation to the school. Contact Mary Fran O’Keefe at 952-915-4360 or mfokeefe@bsmschool.org if you would like to purchase a blanket.
ingenuity in the coming months, however, so please watch for more information on the location and special hours of the Spirit Shop through the year.
Deck the Halls or Your Tree This adorable ceramic ball will be the perfect addition to your Christmas tree. End 2020 on a festive note with this special Red Knight ornament priced at $20. Contact Mary Fran O’Keefe at 952-915-4360 or mfokeefe@bsmschool.org if you would like to purchase an ornament.
Zahedi Carries Mission into
Retirement
After 20 Years of 7th Grade Science, a Fixture of BSM’s Junior High Retires
Forty years ago, Evonne Zahedi and her family made the move from the east coast to a little town called St. Louis Park. Zahedi knew she wanted to teach, but with younger kids at home, she decided a part-time position at Torah Academy would strike the best worklife balance. Once her children were out of the house, she searched for full-time work, and luckily, she did not have to look very far. Just around the corner from Torah Academy, Zahedi found an opening for a 7th grade science teacher at Benilde-St. Margaret’s, and since the fall of 2000, she has been a staple of the Red Knight community and its junior high. “I always knew I wanted to teach 7th grade. It’s the time in life where everything is starting to make sense. You get to help open students’ eyes and spark their interests in life. It’s more than just teaching science and math. Seeing my students connect the dots and grow as good human beings has been worth a million dollars,” Zahedi shared, recounting her 20-year career at BSM. Over the last two decades, thousands of Red Knight 7th graders have benefitted from Zahedi’s dedication to her profession. In fact, she has
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been reminded of this quite regularly with her random Red Knight run-ins. From the alum she ran into on the streets of New York City a few years back to the former parent she met while volunteering at a local nonprofit, Zahedi knows the BSM community is all around her, whether she’s walking the school’s hallways or not. As she thinks about what’s next for her, Zahedi has a few ideas. Postpandemic, she and her husband plan to travel as much as possible. Until then, she will continue to live out a core part of BSM’s mission by contributing meaningfully to society through her volunteer work. “BSM taught me to give because you can. Whether it’s your time, treasures, talents, or compassion, you give not because you have to but because it’s just what you do,” Zahedi reflected. Aside from this commitment to volunteering and the eventual travel adventures, her other hope is to one day return to BSM as a substitute teacher. Until then, we wish Evonne Zahedi nothing but the best in her retirement and can all echo former Junior High Principal Claire Shea’s ’05 sentiments: “Evonne was an integral part of the BSM junior high. There is no doubt she will be greatly missed. Teaching was truly her vocation, and the entire Red Knight community is better because she was part of it. Thank you, Evonne!”
Special Chance to Connect with
Santa
Santa website for alumni children and local family drive-up event
Bulletin Board
Fall 2020
Although we are unable to host our annual Alumni Children’s Christmas Party in person this year, we invite alums and children everywhere to watch a message from Santa Claus on the BSM website at BSMschool.org/Santa. Alumni children can also correspond directly with Santa at his new email address: Santa@BSMschool.org.
New This Year! Local families are also invited to stop by BSM on Saturday, December 5, from 10 - 11:30 a.m. to receive a special treat bag from Santa. Be sure to let us know if your family will be driving up to the main entrance on December 5 so Santa’s elves can deliver a treat bag to your car. Email Mary Fran O’Keefe at mfokeefe@BSMschool.org or Rachel Kuzma Olson ‘93 at rkuzmaolson@BSMschool.org to RSVP for this north pole delivery.
In Memoriam Arthur “Duke” Anderson
Husband of Kathleen O’Malley Anderson ‘52 deceased Husband of Jo Anne Sullivan Halek ‘53 Father of Mary Kaye Anderson Gorrilla ‘74 Neva Anderson Gullickson Elizabeth Anderson Boeser Martin Patrick John Ed
Colette Nicole Bernardi Wife of Luigi Bernardi ‘81
Robert Bird ‘86
Brother of Catherine Simon ‘99
Don Bolgrean
Father of Allison Bolgrean Brown ‘05
Therese Bailey Britts ‘46
Mother of Johnice Britts Sallis Louise Agnes Britts Pomroy Lorraine Britts Coan Cathy Britts-Axen Maurice, Jr. Therese Britts Salber Mary Danny Britts-Osterlund ‘87
Linda Kimrey Burau ‘67
Sister of Nora Kimrey Hindle ‘68 Catherine Kimrey Reid Anne Kimrey Hamilton - deceased Michael ‘74 Mother of Brian ‘87 Jennifer Burau Rogers ‘89 Cari Burau Campbell ‘95
Larry Carlsen
Father of Kelly Carlsen Phillips ‘85 Katharine Carlsen Juckniess ‘87
Robert Caton ‘68 Father of Rob ‘98
Ann Liemandt Cronin ‘55 Mother of Nick Sheila ‘82 Jim ‘84 Matt ‘87 Bridget Cronin Lionetti Molly Cronin Clark
Dan Forby, Sr.
Brother of Eileen Forby Paquin ‘40 - deceased Father of Dan, Jr. ‘75 Cheri Forby Peterson Jay ‘78 Mary Tim ‘86
Caron Jagodzinski ‘73
Sister of Mary Jagodzinski Leizinger ‘74 Jayne Jagodzinski Myhre ‘78 James ‘80 Joe
John T. Jensen
Father of Jay ‘85 Tammy Jensen Smith ‘88 Kay Jensen Anderson ‘89 Sherry Jensen Pearl ‘95
Jillian Rosendahl Johnson Sister of Jason ‘89 Jessica Rosendahl Miller ‘91 Josie Rosendahl Zernicke ‘98
Leonora Lira
Mother of Lynn Lira Chevalier ‘85 Leandro ‘88 Levy ‘90
Rosemarie Merrigan Sister of Shannon Michael Kevin Tim ‘82 Pat ‘84
Lorraine Michaels ‘52
Sister of Mary ‘49 - deceased Doreen Michaels Clark ‘54 Donald
John Paquette
Father of Doug ‘69 LuAnn Paquette Lehnertz ‘71 Sharon Paquette Slininger ‘73 Cindy Paquette Klesk ‘76 Lori Paquette Kempf ‘81
Thomas Ryan
Husband of Deb - past staff Father of Meghan Ryan Vieira-Ducey ‘95 Kelly Ryan Kabotoff ‘98 Tommy ‘00
Rita Wallerius Stevens ‘54
Mother of Julie ‘76 Jean Stevens Swingley ‘77 - deceased Lisa ‘78
Kevin Tritz
Father of Natalie Tritz Fowler ‘91 Aaron Ryan
LaVerne Bendtsen Kintop ‘49
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Below: Girls’ Tennis The BSM girls’ tennis team was named Metro West Conference Champions and finished second in Section 2AA.
Above: Girls’ Swim and Dive Several new school records were set by the girls’ swim team at their Section 2A meet in October. The medley relay team pictured here set a new school record of 1.49.84 and included (l-r) Melanie Chang ‘21, Sydney Holinka ‘22, Lauren Benedict ‘23, and Taylor Williams ‘21. Taylor Williams also set new school records of 55.50 in the 100m butterfly and 57.29 in the 100m backstroke. Right: National Merit Scholars BSM seniors Hans Backes, Charles Damberg, and Oriana Sampson were named Semifinalists in the highly competitive National Merit Scholarship Program. Fellow Red Knights Jacqueline Bucaro, Michelle Doering, Andres Jimenez, Mason Kelley, Ryan Kraemer, Mitchell Kroll, and Theodore Pohlen were named Commended Scholars by the National Merit Scholarship Program. 8
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Above: Homecoming Court Congratulations to Lucio Fialo and Lauren Hawkinson who were named Homecoming King and Queen! This year’s candidates included: Alexis Brixius, Charlie Damberg, Theresa DeCesare, Joana Dominguez-Lopez, Piper Ehlen, Adam Foe, Charlie Frattalone, Danny McCoy, Sarah McGurl, and Nick Marinaro. Red Knights voted as class attendants included Anna Amaris and Xavier Lumpkin (freshmen), Mallory Mathwig and Ryan Baird (sophomores), and Emily Zagaros and Brady Yakesh (juniors). The ceremony emcees were Josie King and George Wolfe.
Above: BSM Fishing BSM senior Charles Hansen reeled in a 41-inch northern pike while fishing on Lake Harriet, and he was featured on KARE 11.
Above: Girls’ Soccer The BSM girls’ soccer team was named champions of the Metro West Conference with a 9-1-1 record and went on to finish as Section 5A champions as well.
Right: Signing Ceremony Five senior student-athletes signed National Letters of Intent on Sept. 18, 2020: Olivia Haag will be attending Boston University for hockey, Abby Hancock will be attending Brown University for hockey, Maya Jones will be attending Union College for hockey, Anna Podein will be attending the University of Vermont for hockey, and Taylor Williams will be attending the University of Missouri for swimming. Fall 2020 |
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Alumni News Fall 2020 1974
Reunion plans for a summer gathering are underway. Stay tuned for an update in the spring of 2021. The reunion contact is Mary Regan Gilbertson at maryregangilbertson@gmail.com.
1984
In a report published in March, co-authored by Mike Rogers in Science Advances, archaeologists reported the discovery of the smallest known Homo erectus cranium in Africa dating back to about 1.5 million years ago. The skull was recovered in Ethiopia, only a few miles from where they also found a similar, larger skull with slightly sturdier features. Researchers think these two skulls both came from the same kind of early human, H. erectus, and indicate that the species showed distinct differences between the sexes. Physical differences between males and females might speak to the early humans’ mating habits, a conversation anthropologists have been having for years. Mike Rogers is an archaeologist with Southern Connecticut State University.
1985
Classmates met at Floyd’s in Victoria on September 4: (l-r) Andrea Rossman Kessler, Shannon Anderson, Darrin Holland, Tom Cook, Bryan Olson, Eric Munkeby, Curt Mortenson, and Cheryl Probst Felton.
designed by national award-winning architect Jamil Ford, is now complete. George is hoping to foster a greater sense of community pride with this housing project. In addition, Devean selected several Black women from the community to serve as property manager, director of operations, compliance manager and head of maintenance. The construction company, architect, and developer are also Black-ownedand-operated companies.
1998
Craig Darcy and his wife, Kate, are the proud parents of Liv Louise who was born on September 23. Big sister Isla (10) was excited to meet her baby sister.
2000
Mike Mahler and his wife, Dara, zoomed in to talk to the cast of BSM’s It’s A Wonderful Life about life as an artist, acting in Chicago, and what it’s like to do a radio play. For more information on the BSM drama department’s fall radio show visit BSMschool.org/drama. Kristen Hamilton and her husband, Dan Passe, announce the adoption of their baby girl, Vale Josephine Passe, who was born on September 16.
2004
Sarah Rauenhorst and Nat Robinson were married July 17 in Vail, Colorado. Sarah is a co-founder at Launch Network, and Nat is co-founder of Leaf Global Fintech. The couple will be living in Colorado.
2005
Leigh Threlkeld Spilseth and her husband, Andrew, welcomed Max Margaret on March 17. Max’s big sister Charli is 2. Leigh is in software sales with Episerver, and Andrew is in residential real estate with Sotheby’s. The Spilseths live in Wayzata. Check the 2010 news to read about Max’s new cousin Reese.
1989
Jeremiah Miller has moved to a full-time P.E. position at St. Bartholomew’s in Wayzata. Miah had been splitting his time between St. Therese in Deephaven and St. Bart’s.
Alex Wahl and his wife, Amber, have a new addition to their family. Isabelle Rose was born on October 14.
1995
2006
Former NBA player and Red Knight alum Devean George and his business partners are doing what they can to transform the landscape of North Minneapolis. The second phase of Commons at Penn Avenue,
Sam Fulco has been teaching math at BSM for
BSM welcomed Kate Ryan Mich back as an art teacher for both junior high and senior high this fall. Kate taught art at Groves Academy and also worked for Jostens before returning to her alma mater. Kate and husband Patrick have three future Red Knights at home, Bennett (9), William (7), and Samantha (5).
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Lauren Gooley Brandt and her husband, Ben, welcomed Lily on June 8. Big brother Henry (3) is thrilled to have a baby sister!
six years. This year has brought many new challenges to the classroom. He is in school teaching everyday, and BSM students receive instruction in-person and online through a hybrid learning model. On a lovely fall day, the courtyard was a perfect space for teacher prep.
2008
Thomas Gorrilla has joined the staff at St. Therese in Deephaven as the new P.E. teacher. He most recently taught at St. Mark’s in St. Paul. He is replacing Jeremiah Miller ’89.
Ryan Minkoff is the founder and owner of 83, LLC, a global ice hockey agency representing players at the junior, college, and professional level. An economics and entrepreneurship graduate of the University of Washington, he became the first player from that school to play pro hockey with Finnish club Lapuan Virkiä—a signing that garnered the attention of Derek Jeter’s The Players’ Tribune. Ryan is publishing his autobiography in November called “Thin Ice.” Learn more at: https://rowman.com/isbn/9781493038886 Ellen Schmidt and Kyler Anderson were married on Saturday, July 25, at the home of Perry and Anne Schmidt. A small group of family and friends were on hand to celebrate with the happy couple. Ellen is the director of marketing at SitelogIQ and Kyler is a PharmD and area business manager at Acorda Therapeutics. The Andersons live in Corcoran.
Elle Zeman Stefan and her husband, Tyler, are excited to announce the birth of Windahl Ray Stefan on August 28. Winn’s big brother Walker is 3. Jordan Taylor stopped by to shoot some hoops at BSM in August. Jordan is in his 9th year of professional basketball and currently playing in Sapporo, Japan, about an hour’s flight from Tokyo.
2010
Jen Degleman and Matthew Shook welcomed Mickey Alan Shook on August 19. Charlotte (3) was excited to have a new brother. Jen is a senior analytic consultant for Strategic Education (Capella University), and Matthew is a SVP of retail banking for First Resource Bank. Brett Threlkeld Kurth and husband Jake are happy to announce the birth of Reese Larae on March 19. Big brother Brooks (2) welcomed Reese home. Brett works at UBS Financial Services, and Jake is an industrial developer with Scannell Properties. The Kurths live in Long Lake.
2011
Ben Krebsbach and Melissa Jacobs were married in a small ceremony on June 13. Ben is a tax manager at Deloitte Tax LLP and an assistant football coach for the Red Knights. Melissa works as a chiropractor at iBackCheck Sport Therapy. Ben and Melissa’s dog, Leo, joined their wedding photo. The couple is planning an anniversary celebration in the summer of 2021.
Emily Roberts Roane and her husband, Jay, are thrilled to announce the birth of Henry Willard on August 9. Emily is a senior business partner at Target in the seasonal department, concentrating on back-to-school and holiday. Jay is in sales in the spine department at Medtronic. The Roanes live in Eden Prairie.
2013
In a Patagonia-sponsored documentary called Public Trust, the BWCA is one of the featured stories. The feature includes work that Spencer Shaver is doing for Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters. Dad Craig even makes a cameo appearance.
2014
John Lager graduated from Yale University where he played football for four seasons. After graduation, he transferred to Notre Dame in 2019 for a final season of eligibility where he appeared in five games last fall. Kelly Pannek has returned to the St. Louis Park Rec Center to be an assistant coach for the BSM girls’ varsity hockey team.
2016
Amanda Kautzer earned 2019-2020 Academic All-American Team Member of the Year for Division II sports. Amanda had a 4.0 in biomedical engineering at Michigan Tech, is a 2-time Academic All-American, 3-time NCAA qualifier, and a 3-time all-region/allconference selection. Catalina Zapata is president of the University of Minnesota Pre-Law Society and a board member of the Human Rights Student Association. She helps promote the Minnesota Pre-Law Scholars (MPLS) program that offers free LSAT prep classes to groups historically underrepresented in law school.
2020
Seamus Foley won the coveted honor of being named an Under Armour All-American for the defense/long-stick midfield position by Corrigan Sports Enterprises. To comply with COVID-19 safety guidelines and travel restrictions, high school boys’ and girls’ lacrosse games were shifted to a regional format. Seamus will continue his education and play lacrosse at Georgetown.
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 Fall 2020
Hockey Alums - Enjoying the last days of summer are: back row (l-r) Auggie Moore ’16, Jack Qualen ’16, and Zach Risteau ’16; middle row (l-r) Luke Horton ’17, Jared Gherardi ’16, Dan Myrha ’16, and Peter Heimbold ’16; front row Jacob Holmers ’16.
Celebrating Summer - Classmates from ‘85 reunited at Floyd’s over Labor Day weekend: (l-r) Jim Hasselman, Curt Mortenson, Rob Cich, Darrin Holland, Eric Munkeby, and Bryan Olson. Not pictured: Andrea Rossman Kessler, Cheryl Probst Felton, Shannon Anderson, Maureen McRaith, Tom Cook. Virtual attendees: David Pellegrene, Cate and Paul Kruth.
Baseball fans - Several Hamill baseball parents celebrated their Red Knight connection last summer: back row (l-r) Kirk Fossum ’93, Jennifer Darcy Murry ’96, Patrick Murry ’96, Derek Johnson ’04, and Kyrsten Kelley Johnson ’04 (holding two-year-old Michael); front row (l-r) Stola Fossum (7), Bergen Fossum (7), George Murry (6), Maddie Murry ’25, Jack Murry (9), Matthew Johnson (4), Annabelle Johnson (6), and Adam Johnson (8).
Aviators - Navy Lieutenant Jack Tucker ’13 (right) and Marines First Lieutenant Andrew Egger ’14 met up at naval air station Kingsville. Jack and Andrew played soccer together at BSM and were happy to be reunited. Andrew was just starting his training, and Jack was finishing up when this photo was taken. Jack received his wings on October 30.
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Wedding Celebration - Ellen Schmidt ’11 and Kyler Anderson celebrated their July wedding surrounded by family: (l-r) Perry and Anne Schmidt, Kyler, Ellen, Megan Schmidt Cron ’09, Pat Cron ’09 (holding Charlie Cron) Emily Schmidt ’15, Mark Ahern ‘15, and Michael Schmidt ’19.
Basketball Players - Red Knights (l-r) Sanjay Lumpkin ‘12, Michael Wexler ‘17, and Xavier Lumpkin ‘24 spent time at BSM over the summer working on their game.
Summer Wedding - The Rauenhorst family celebrated the wedding of Sarah ’04 and Nat Robinson in Vail, Colorado: back row (l-r) Kristine and Matt Rauenhorst ’98, Karen and Mark Rauenhorst, Sarah ’04 and Nat Robinson, Ian and Kristine Rauenhorst Widmer ’01, Jeff ’96 and Gia Rauenhorst; front row (l-r) George Rauenhorst, Willa Rauenhorst, Henry Rauenhorst, Max Widmer, Kathryn Widmer, Sophia Rauenhorst, and Nate Rauenhorst. Birthday Buddies Morgan Williams ’18 (left) and Alexa Reynders ’18 (right) posed for a photo on their shared birthday in July. Louie Williams also made the photo and appears between the friends.
Door County Road Trip - Friends from the Class of ‘85 took a Segway tour along Green Bay: (l-r) Andrea Rossman Kessler, Jennifer Schuler Heaton, Cheryl Probst Felton, Cathy Windham Taylor. Photos were submitted to Benilde-St. Margaret’s for publication and were not taken at any BSM-sponsored events.
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Working to Build a True Sense of
g n i g n o l e B
In order to live up to the values of our Catholic faith, to recognize the sacred nature of every person, and to ensure everyone in our school is seen and heard, Benilde-St. Margaret’s is taking a number of steps to move our diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work forward. Our goal is that every Red Knight – regardless of race, ethnicity, or ability – feels a true sense of belonging in our community. 2020-2021 Organizational Assessment In August 2020, BSM hired DEI Consultant Kendra Dodd to assess our organizational approach to DEI.
Our Five-Year Strategic Plan In 2019, BSM’s Board of Directors adopted a five-year strategic plan that establishes a formal vision for BSM’s student body that reflects racial, economic, and academic diversity.
The assessment—that will include input from students, parents, faculty/ staff, and alumni—will evaluate school policies and practices, recruitment techniques, and curriculum.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion School Board Committee In July 2020, BSM’s Board of Directors created a new committee to oversee efforts toward creating a more diverse school community in line with the goals of our 2020-2025 strategic plan. Committee membership includes board members, parents, school personnel, and alumni.
Junior and Senior High Affinity Groups In 2016, BSM formed several affinity groups to help build community among students of color and to provide a comfortable space for honest dialogue and academic, social, and emotional support. Each group meets weekly throughout the school year.
Following the review, BSM will create a multi-year plan to bolster inclusion efforts. Visit bsmschool.org/DEIaction to learn more and stay up to date on our progress.
Faculty and Staff Trainings Faculty and staff are required to participate in regular professional development to enhance cultural understanding.
Student Advocate Program Student advocates oversee senior and junior high affinity group meetings, provide support for first-generation college-bound students, and host quarterly parent affinity group meetings.
Learn more about our DEI work at bsmschool.org/DEI. 14
| Fall 2020
Annual Report 2019-2020
Letter from Board Chair As I look back to the start of 2020, I realize none of us could have imagined the incredible challenges we would face this year. Along with the world at large, COVID-19 forced Benilde-St.Margaret’s to rethink every detail of our operations to protect our community. In a matter of months, we established an entirely new educational paradigm, re-engineered our technological infrastructure, and adjusted to new daily routines. The ingenuity and tireless dedication that our faculty, staff, and administration have demonstrated throughout the pandemic is nothing short of inspirational. Facing the unknown each day, they are showing up and delivering on our mission to educate and empower our students. Concurrent to the challenges brought on by the pandemic, we were confronted with the reality that many of our current and former students have not found BSM to be the welcoming, supportive place all in our community want it to be. What we owe those students is much more than an apology – we owe them real change. We have already taken several important steps in our diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work – such as hiring a consultant to conduct an organizational assessment and establishing a board-level committee for DEI – but we acknowledge there are many more strides to make. We will continue with our efforts until every one of our students feels a genuine sense of belonging at BSM. None of this work would be possible without your generous financial support. Last year alone, your gifts totaled over $3 million to support tuition assistance, academic programs, and facility enhancements. It is this partnership that allows the BSM community to grow, adapt, and remove barriers so that our students can thrive. The strength of our partnership with you is also evident in the health of our fiscal position. We began the 2020-2021 school year with wait pools in every grade, and enrollment numbers for next year already look strong. We will soon complete the capital campaign that supports the construction of a new collaborative learning space for students. The Cube – or center for curiosity, creativity, and collaboration – is set to open at the end of the year. So there are challenges, but there is also reason for incredible optimism. The lessons of the past year have shown us that we still have work to do, and they’ve reminded us of the extraordinary strength and resiliency of our community. Join me in gratitude for the blessings our Lord has bestowed on us – for the teachers and staff who work tirelessly to inspire our students in the midst of a pandemic, for our students who are committed to rigorous growth, for our parents and guardians who guide and inspire, and for the voices of every Red Knight, past and present. On behalf of the board, school leadership, and our entire community – thank you for your generous support of Benilde St. Margaret’s.
With gratitude,
Board of Directors 2019-2020 Corrina Colwell Conley ‘79 Adam Ehrmantraut, Ed.D, BSM President Susan Eich Brother Chris Englert, FSC Sheila Folkestad Maureen Weber Grazzini ‘86 Shane Huether Father Jim Liekhus ‘97 Tom Lynch ‘85 Fran McCloskey, Treasurer Biz McShane Murphy ‘96 Nadia Aboussir Martyn ‘05 Jason Matz Sister Joan Mitchell, CSJ Jeff Olejnik ‘86 Laura Portz Ann Ruff ‘73 Mark Scherer ‘86 Charles Scott John Theisen ‘06 Jim Vogl, Chair John Vonhoff ‘86, Secretary Shay Wyley, Past Chair
Table of Contents Financial Reports.................................. 17 Constituent Rolls...................................18 Spiritus Society.....................................18 Alumni................................................... 29 Corporations, Foundations, and Organizations................................ 34 Endowed Scholarships....................... 36 Honor and Memorial Gifts................. 36
Jim Vogl, Board Chair
A Knight for All Seasons Supporters...................................... 38
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Coming S oon
Cube (C3)
Curiosity, Creativity, Collaboration
Thank you to all the generous donors who made an investment in this important project. architectural design rendering
C3 or the “Cube,� a new experiential learning facility in the heart of BSM, will foster curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
Most students learn by doing, which is why the Cube is designed to provide a learning environment that allows students to engage their passions and take ownership of their studies. This space will prepare BSM students for the challenges and opportunities of a fast-changing world. For more information, visit the BSM website at www.BSMschool.org/center-collaborative-learning. Construction on the Cube began in June 2020, and the new space will open in December 2020. The Cube is located immediately north of the chapel between the west hall and the commons/cafeteria.
Center for Innovative Learning
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| Fall 2020
2019-2020 Annual Report
Financial Statement Financial Statement for the fiscal year July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020.
Operating Income Tuition and Fees...................................................................................$18,215,000 Annual Fund Gifts.................................................................................. $1,377,000 Endowment Draw.................................................................................... $455,000 Other Revenue* ....................................................................................... $371,000 Total Revenue................................................................................. $20,418,000
Operating Expenses Direct Student Program Costs.............................................................$15,755,000 General Office and Administration..................................................... $3,698,000 Debt Service..............................................................................................$965,000 Total Expenses............................................................................... $20,418,000 *Other revenue primarily consists of unrestricted investment income
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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 2277
A Catholic, college-preparatory school, grades 7-12 2501 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
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Paper from responsible sources www.fsc.org
FSC ® C005259
Virtual
Grandparents’ Day 2020
Vickie and Lewie Olson watch the virtual Grandparents’ Day Mass at home.
Grandparents from near and far celebrated BSM’s first virtual Grandparents’ Day on September 25. A short program included a welcome from President Adam Ehrmantraut and current grandparent and past parent Joe Mucha. The program was followed by Mass in the BSM chapel celebrated by Fr. Tim Wozniak ‘66. The program and liturgy were recorded and are still available on our website at www.bsmschool.org/grandparents-day. Thank you to all the grandparents who tuned in and who have supported this event in the past. We hope to see grandparents in person next year.