the
WORD Summer 2012
Bringing childhood memories back to life
Dear Friends:
“Early indications are that we’ll surpass 9,000 students for the first time in our 131-year history. That’s nearly seven times our enrollment from 1985.”
You will be pleased to know that we completed another highly successful year at UIW in May. We ended the year on a very positive note due to two events: our first-ever undergraduate commencement ceremony at the Freeman Coliseum (located next to the AT&T Center, home of the San Antonio Spurs) and the groundbreaking for our newest sports facility. Early in May, more than 5,000 friends and family members gathered to watch as 424 students received their bachelor’s degrees during a procession featuring all of the traditional pomp found in the campus ceremonies. By the way, as a measure of how much our institution has grown in the last decade, just 218 students received their undergraduate degrees from UIW in the spring of 2000. In mid-May we broke ground for a Fencing and International Sports Center that will be located at St. Anthony Catholic High School, which we own and operate. The $3 million fencing center will be a multi-purpose facility that will provide new opportunities for high school and college students interested in this sport. The expected completion date for the center is January of 2013. Looking ahead to the fall, we expect to set another enrollment record. Early indications are that we’ll surpass 9,000 students for the first time in our 131-year history. That’s nearly seven times our enrollment from 1985. We’re also expecting a record enrollment at our campus in Mexico City, which now offers several new degrees, including an MBA and a master’s in education. We should reach another significant milestone this fall when our endowment exceeds the $100 million mark for the first time. That’s an increase from about $3 million in 1985. In August, we’ll dedicate our two newest locations. The Debbie and Naty Saidoff Center, located in the northwest part of the city, will house our new School of Physical Therapy and an additional ADCaP site (the Saidoff Center will be our sixth location in San Antonio). Meanwhile, our newest international location will be in Heidelberg, Germany, a historic city of about 140,000 people that has been home to more than 50 Nobel laureates. I encourage you to read the rest of this issue to catch-up on what else has been happening at the University of the Incarnate Word. Included is a profile on Board member Michael Belz, who is president of Catholic Life Insurance, and a feature on Dr. Andrew Buzzelli, dean of the Rosenberg School of Optometry who was chosen Educator of the Year by the Texas Optometric Association. Remember, it’s because of your commitment to our community that we can continue fulfilling Incarnate Word’s goal of offering students the best possible educational opportunities within a context of faith. Please remember an investment in higher education is something that will yield returns for a lifetime for you, your family and our community. Special blessings on you and your loved ones throughout the remainder of the summer. Best Wishes,
Louis J. Agnese Jr., Ph.D. President
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credits
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contents
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Campus News
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University Collective
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Bringing childhood memories back to life
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A life changing experience
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A Credit to her Community
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Athletic Round Up
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Dean credits “Educator of the Year” award to entire School of Optometry
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Making the Grade
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Class Notes
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Meet the Board
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Moment for Reflection
On the cover: A.J. and Tony Moore relive their childhood memories through their company GudFit Entertainment.
20 Managing Editor Debra Del Toro
Contributing Writers Brance Arnold ‘10 MA Rebecca Esparza Margaret Garcia Most Rev. Gustavo García-Siller, M.Sp.S Steve Hemphill Ashley Lindstrom Crystale Lopez Rick Smith ‘09 MAA Wayne Witt
Dr. Louis J. Agnese Jr. President
Photo by Steve Holloway
Lisa Schultz ’91 BA,’95 MA Director of Alumni Relations
Sr. Kathleen Coughlin ’67 Debra Del Toro BSN Director of Public Relations Vice President for Institutional Advancement Art Director The Word is published by the Michael Hood Public Relations Office of the Vincent Rodriguez University of the Incarnate Assistant to the President/ Graphic Designer Word for the alumni, parents, Communications Marisol Martinez benefactors and friends of the Incarnate Word community. This publication is available in alternate format by request. To request an alternate format, please contact the UIW Office of Public Relations at (210) 829-6001. Coordinator Crystale Lopez
Board of Trustees Dr. Louis J. Agnese Jr. Charlie Amato Scott Beckendorf Michael Belz Doyle Beneby Gayle Benson Mike Beucler David Cibrian Fully Clingman Dr. Annette Craven Sr. Martha Estela Perez Curiel Alan Dreeban
John Feik Sr. Marinela Flores John Guajardo Gary Henry Sr. Mary C. Henry Winell Herron Betty Kelso Nancy Kudla Jack Lewis Charles Lutz Sr. Teresa Yolanda Maya John Miller
William Moll Sr. Anne Munley Carmen Nava Enzo Pellegrino John Peveto Sr. Annette Pezold Marky Pontius Joseph A. Reyes Richard Schlosberg Sr. Yolanda Tarango Sr. Gloria Ortiz Villalon
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2012 Graduates celebrate their big day. Hundreds of graduates crossed the stage at two ceremonies in May and took their Alumni Oath to pledge participation in the UIW Alumni Association and to exemplify the high ideals and values set forth in the Incarnate Word Mission. To see more photos from this year’s commencement ceremonies, visit https://www.facebook.com/uiwcardinals.
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2 THE WORD | SUMMER 2012
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Give Green Help students while you help the environment. Give online at www.uiw.edu/giving. Changing the world? How are you enriching your world? We want to know how you are touching lives. If you have a unique story to share, e-mail Crystale Lopez at cllopez2@uiwtx.edu.
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campus news
UIW celebrates Incarnate Word Day and CCVI Spirit Award recipients The University of the Incarnate Word celebrated Incarnate Word Day on Monday, March 26 in observance of the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Incarnation of the Eternal Word, God. The annual Incarnate Word Day festivities included lunch on Dubuis Lawn, the Cardinal Carnival, a golf cart parade, and Mass in Our Lady’s Chapel where the CCVI Spirit awards were presented. The 2011-2012 faculty/staff recipient of the award was Tom Duckworth, UIW payroll administrator. The CCVI Spirit Award recognizes a member of the faculty, administration, or staff who has demonstrated in service to the university or the broader civic community, the spirit of the founders, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. Duckworth was surprised when he found out he was selected for the award. He said working for UIW has given him the opportunity to grow mentally and spiritually. “I have also had the opportunity to meet and work with remarkable individuals who share with me the core values of the university and the spirit of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word,” he said. “I have received more than I would be able to fully give back, but I give in order for the Mission of the university to continue long after I have gone.” The student award recipient was Samantha Buentello. The Student CCVI Spirit Award began in 1994 and awards a student who is recognized by peers, faculty and staff as living the
Pictured (L-R) Tom Duckworth, payroll administrator, and UIW student Samantha Buentello, 2011-2012 CCVI Spirit Award recipients.
Mission of the Sisters and whose actions embody the spirit of human dignity and charity in relationships at the university and/or in the community. This is the highest award a student can achieve at UIW. “I was very honored and humbled to be selected for this award,” Buentello said. “It is an amazing experience and I cannot wait to inspire other students and show them that when you trust in God and glorify him, nothing is impossible.”
Kimmel honored with Presidential Teaching Award Dr. Jessica Kimmel, professor of graduate studies, was honored with the 2012 Presidential Teaching Award on Friday, March 30 at the Faculty Appreciation Luncheon. The annual award acknowledges and rewards a full-time faculty member who exemplifies excellence in teaching that leads to student engagement. Colleagues, current students and alumni make the nominations for the award by sharing why the nominee deserves to be selected. “Teaching at UIW is up there at the top with faculty performance,” Kimmel said. “The university asks for us to be good teachers, rewards faculty and supports them.” Kimmel understands students and the pressures they are under. She believes that problem solving to help students makes for good teaching and advising, rather than just drawing a line
and saying “this is how it has to be.” “As faculty, we have to understand these pressures and help our students figure out a way to do it and Incarnate Word is a place where finding solutions for students is encouraged,” she said. “We offer that when a lot of schools do not – this is what makes UIW student friendly.” As part of the award, UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese also presented a $5,000 stipend to Kimmel and she will now be a member of the selection committee in succeeding years. “This is a wonderful award for the president, faculty and administration to give, and as part of the committee to select future recipients I would look for those who take a narrow discipline and work it outward with their students to find a way to get them involved,” Kimmel said. “Then there is the effect of the Mission on students – we have faculty
who will take 50 students on Mission trips over spring break. At UIW, you see there is a respect for academia and faculty from our students because it is mutual.”
Dr. Jessica Kimmel, professor of graduate studies and recipient of the Presidential Teaching Award with UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese. THE WORD | SUMMER 2012 3
campus news
UIW Campus Activities Board (CAB) members hosted a booth at the Red Dress fashion show and health fair. Pictured (L-R) Dominique Hunter, Cristal Gonzalez, Victoria Enriquez, Sandy Arroyo, Lyndsey Reyna, and Joseph Whitacre.
“Heart Health Around the World” The University of the Incarnate Word presented the annual Red Dress Fashion Show and Health Fair, “Heart Health Around the World,” on Tuesday, Feb. 14 at UIW’s Marian Hall Ballroom. The ninth annual event themed, “Heart Health Around the World,” promoted cardiac health in women and featured fashions designed and modeled by UIW students. The health fair, aimed at bringing awareness to the dangers of heart disease in women, boasted heart healthy appetizers, special activities and exhibits while providing information on the importance of maintaining a heart healthy lifestyle. “The Red Dress Fashion Show and Health Fair also motivates students to take care of their hearts from a young age because heart disease can develop over the course of decades,” said Lee Ann Waltz, event coordinator for Red Dress and professor in the Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions. The event culminated with the Red Dress Fashion Show that showcased red garments specifically designed and constructed by UIW student designers. The Red Dress Fashion Show and Health Fair is held each year in support of the American Heart Association “Go Red” campaign.
Physical Therapy Program takes first step to accreditation Effective in May, the Doctor of Physical Therapy entry-level program was granted Candidate for Accreditation status by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Candidate for Accreditation is a preaccreditation status of affiliation with CAPTE that indicates that the program may matriculate students in professional courses and that the program is progressing toward accreditation. The new state-of-the-art School of Physical Therapy, located in the Debbie and Naty Saidoff Center at Guilbeau and Tezel, will include a Rehabilitation Clinic managed by CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Westover Hills to offer physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy services. The orientation week for the first class of students enrolled in the entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy program will start on August 13, 2012 with classes starting on the 20th.
UIW programs ranked among best by U.S. News and World Report The University of the Incarnate Word retained the No. 64 spot in Nursing and the Feik School of Pharmacy (FSOP) earned the No. 80 spot among pharmacy schools in the 2013 edition of Best Graduate Schools by U.S. News and World Report. “UIW has been preparing outstanding nursing leaders for nearly a century,” said Dr. Kathi Light, provost and former dean of the Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions. “We are pleased to be recognized once again for the excellent quality of our graduate programs, the faculty, and the clinical leaders we prepare.” This was the first year that the FSOP has been recognized. 4 THE WORD | SUMMER 2012
“Although the Feik School of Pharmacy is considered a ‘new school’, we are pleased to be recognized by potential and current students, employers, and the public for the quality of our graduates,” said Dr. Arcelia JohnsonFannin, founding dean of the FSOP. UIW was also recognized for Virtual University Programs in the first-ever edition of Top Online Education Program rankings by U.S. News and World Report. UIW earned the No. 3 spot among Teaching Practice and Student Engagement, and the No. 8 spot among Faculty Credentials and Training. Online bachelor’s degree programs as well as graduate online degree programs in business, engineering, nurs-
ing, education, and computer information technology were ranked. These rankings were created in response to today’s high demand for education provided in a flexible manner. With many distractions to detract from one’s schooling, online education has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility. “We are very proud the Virtual University has been recognized for this honor,” said Dr. Cyndi Wilson Porter, vice president for Extended Academic Programs. “We strive to deliver quality degree programs with strong curriculum, credentialed and experienced faculty, with customer service that can’t be beat.”
UIW’s Center for Medical Tourism Research hosts 2012 conference
Pictured (L-R) Dr. Emily Clark presented Dr. Pat Lonchar with the Women and Gender Studies Award for Scholarship and Teaching at the new concentration’s kick-off reception.
New women and gender studies program kicks-off during Women’s History Month Women’s History Month, observed in March, gave UIW the opportunity to showcase a number a nationally acclaimed speakers from various ethnic and religious backgrounds. The theme of this year’s celebration was “Women’s Education – Women’s Empowerment,” and led up to the kick-off of the new women and gender studies program at UIW. “The wonderful variety of events comes from the creativity, vision and dedication of the UIW faculty,” said Sr. Martha Ann Kirk, CCVI, professor in the College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences. Events on campus included topics such as “Women for Social Justice and the Environment,” with renowned writer Lucy R. Lippard as keynote speaker and a panel presentation of women whose work and continuing efforts target important social and environmental issues. “It was my hope that while guests were attending the events on campus that they learned about compassion and cooperation, along with persevering determination and working for the common good,” Kirk said. On Thursday, March 28 the English Department hosted a kick-off reception for the new women and gender studies concentration at UIW. During the reception Dr. Pat Lonchar, assistant dean in the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences was presented with the Women and Gender Studies Award for Scholarship and Teaching, and former UIW student Maggie Callahan presented the keynote address, “Influences: Women in our Lives.” The new interdisciplinary curriculum will begin in fall 2012 and consists of nine required hours and nine elective hours. “It is important to incorporate a women and gender studies program at UIW because many students across campus are interested in these issues which have shaped our world in the past and continue to shape it today,” said Dr. Emily Clark, associate professor in the English department. The goal of the concentration in women’s and gender studies at UIW is to emphasize the dignity of each person and the transformative power of a commitment to truth. It seeks to ground students in theory and immerse them in practice so they are enlightened citizens who advance knowledge and the common good. Visit www.uiw.edu/english/womensstudies.html for more on the women and gender studies program at UIW.
The Center for Medical Tourism and Research (CMTR) at the University of the Incarnate Word presented the Center’s annual conference Feb. 13-15 at the Omni Mansion Del Rio in downtown San Antonio. This year’s conference featured speakers from all over the world committed to understanding the truth behind the hype of medical tourism though the use of empirical analysis and research. “Medical tourism, which includes people travelling to other countries for medical, surgical, health, wellness, dental, and retirement purposes, may be one of the fastest growing industries in the world,” said Dr. David Vequist, founder/director of the CMTR. Among the guest speakers was Dr. Marcia C. Inhorn, the William K. Lanman, Jr. Professor of Anthropology and International Affairs at Yale University, who presented “Reproductive Tourism: Global Trends, Middle Eastern Perspectives.” Inhorn is a specialist on Middle Eastern gender and health issues and has conducted research on the social impact of infertility, assisted reproductive technologies, and reproductive tourism in the Middle East and Arab America for the past 20 years. The CMTR’s third annual conference continued in the tradition of the previous conferences of featuring some of the best and brightest speakers on the planet about one of the world’s fastest growing and most controversial industries,” Vequist said. “The event is considered one of the premier events in the world for this $100 billion industry and we were very proud to have it in San Antonio, home of the CMTR.” The CMTR is housed in the H-E-B School of Business and Administration and is the first in the world to focus on medical tourism research. “The CMTR is considered the leading research center for this massive global industry,” Vequist said. “Plans for the future include our next conference in February 2013 at UIW’s new Heidelberg campus in Germany, where medical tourism is considered a strong growth industry.”
Participants from almost a dozen countries traveled to CMTR’s third annual conference to hear about the most current research available in the medical tourism field. THE WORD | SUMMER 2012 5
campus news
Conference serves as international forum More than 130 presentations from 36 countries were featured at the International Conference of Cultural and Social Aspects of Research March 22-24 at the McCombs Center Rosenberg Sky Room. The focus of the conference was to promote international collaboration among scholars, practitioners, educators and graduate students from multiple disciplines. An international forum for those who wanted to present their projects and papers, guests were also provided the opportunity to discuss the international, multicultural, and social and migration issues in Pictured (L-R) Dr. Sharon the field of research and education. Herbers, of the Dreeben Sonia Nazario served as the conference School of Education; and keynote speaker and shared her story of the Sonia Nazario. hands-on research she took part in to write “Enrique’s Journey,” a story of a Honduran boy’s struggle to find his mother in the U.S. The book became a national bestseller and earned Nazario the Pulitzer Prize.
UIW students “paint the town” over spring break UIW students pulled out their paint brushes and reached out to the community to literally “paint the town” over spring break. In conjunction with the City of San Antonio’s Code Compliance Department, a total of 75 student, faculty and staff volunteers took part in UIW’s annual Meet the Mission: Spring Break Edition 2012. The entire week was spent painting the homes of elderly persons in the San Antonio community. “When I heard about ‘Meet the Mission’ I was excited to participate,” said UIW student Jon Johnston. “By helping those in need we share the gifts we have with others and we are better able
to appreciate what we have.” “I am utterly humbled and amazed at the students’ generosity, compassion, energy, and passion,” said Sr. Walter Maher, CCVI, vice president of university Mission and ministry. “I rejoice with them when we see the difference that the action taken has made in the lives of the people we served. The gratitude of the homeowners was palpable.” Meet the Mission is a universitywide week of community service and collaboration between faculty and students, city personnel and other groups who reach out to the community at large by providing necessary services to the underserved and the needy. The program is a continuation of the Mission of service that brought the first Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word to San Antonio in 1881. Community service is an integral part of each student’s educational experience at UIW.
Students, faculty and staff volunteered their time during spring break to help paint the homes of elderly persons around San Antonio. 6 THE WORD | SUMMER 2012
Pictured (L-R) Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese, Bexar County Commissioner Tommy Adkisson and UIW faculty member Tim Henrich break ground for the new Fencing and International Sports Center.
UIW breaks ground on Fencing and International Sports Center The University of the Incarnate Word and Bexar County officially broke ground on May 23 to signal the beginning of construction for a new multi-million dollar Fencing and International Sports Center. The facility, made possible by a $2 million contribution from the Bexar County Venue Tax, will be the premier fencing facility in the region and will be built on the St. Anthony Catholic High School campus, which is owned and operated by UIW. Incarnate Word will fund an additional $1 million toward the facility, bringing its total estimated cost to $3 million. “We’re pleased to provide new opportunities for students interested in pursuing fencing at both the collegiate and high school levels with what will be the finest fencing center in Texas,” said UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese. “Bexar County voters overwhelmingly approved the venue tax referendum in 2008 because they realize the physical and mental importance of having athletic opportunities for our youngest citizens,” Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo said. “Fencing is a prime example of a sport that develops the athlete mentally and physically, so we are very happy to collaborate with the university on this project.” The 17,000 square-foot fencing and international sports facility will include 12 fencing strips; several practice strips; training rooms; spectator and exercise areas; and an armory. The center will serve as a multipurpose facility allowing UIW to develop an NCAA fencing program; provide the facilities for a U.S. Fencing Association club for the community; serve as a training facility for fencing athletes including hosting of regional and national competitions; and support community initiatives such as the Dreams for Youth fencing.
campus news
Students take designs to the runway The San Antonio community enjoyed the latest fashions created and presented by UIW fashion design students at the 2012 Cutting Edge Fiesta® Fashion Show held April 23 at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel. The show is the most high-profile final exam in the city for students taking UIW’s Fashion Show Production and Senior Collection classes. The fashions showcased were created and constructed by seniors in UIW’s Fashion Design program who worked on their collections for more than a year. The 2012 student designers included Paige Digiovanni, Heather Fitzgerald, Veronica Hernandez, Christiana Lazarine, Ricki Martin, Adriana Mendez, Sara Stevens and Adelle Stivalet. Students’ final designs were judged by industry professionals and put on public display in a high-energy New York style runway show produced by students in the university’s Fashion Show Production class. Lazarine won Best of Show, Best Design and Best Construction for her “Northern Exposure” collection. Judges determined Lazarine’s collection of faux fur and wool outerwear reflected the qualities of winter’s first snow with neutral tones and clean lines that were simple, classic and tailored. Proceeds from UIW’s Cutting Edge Fiesta® Fashion Show provide scholarships for UIW fashion management students. Since 2006, the fashion show, its sponsors and supporters have awarded more than $40,000 in scholarships to fashion management students.
A winning design by Christiana Lazarine, Best of Show winner, for her “Northern Exposure” collection.
Friendship Garden dedication honors UIW lifetime friends
Pictured L to R: Vincent Sullivan, Tena Gorman, Ruth Eilene Sullivan, Jimmy Gorman III, Peggy and Jack Lewis, Barbara and Alan Dreeben, and Jim Gorman take a moment for a photo at the dedication of the Friendship Garden.
Sr. Kathleen Coughlin, CCVI, vice president of institutional advancement, welcomed the university community to the dedication of the Friendship Garden Friday, May 11 at the oak tree adjacent to the Agnese/Sosa Building. The dedication was sponsored by Barbara and Alan Dreeben in honor of their lifetime friends Tena Gorman, Peggy Lewis, and Ruth Eilene Sullivan. The newly landscaped area will provide a peaceful place for students to meet with friends under the canopy of an oak tree believed to be over 500 years old. THE WORD | SUMMER 2012 7
campus news
Spring 2012 Commencement Recognizes Graduates and Accomplishments of Many The Spring 2012 commencement ceremonies at the University of the Incarnate Word not only conferred degrees to graduates, but also bestowed a Doctor of Humane Letters to two commendable couples and recognized a group of graduating nurses from CHRISTUS Muguerza Hospitals in Mexico. The Friday evening commencement, held May 4 in the McDermott Convocation Center, honored graduates of the university’s master’s and Ph.D. programs and UIW’s Feik School of Pharmacy. In addition, 19 nurses, all in leadership positions at CHRISTUS Muguerza hospitals, traveled to San Antonio to graduate with their Master of Science in Nursing from UIW’s Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing. CHRISTUS Muguerza is a group of several hospitals 2012 Honorary Doctorate recipients pose with sponsored by the Dr. Louis Agnese before commencement (L-R) Sisters of Charity of Peggy and Jack Lewis Jr., Dr. Agnese, and the Incarnate Word Betty and Lt. Col Robert E. Kelso.
UIW’s spring undergraduate commencement was held in the Joe and Harry Freeman Coliseum. in Monterrey and elsewhere in Mexico. In 2005, CHRISTUS Muguerza and UIW partnered to offer the MSN program to these students. UIW also conferred a Doctor of Humane Letters on two couples, Betty and Lt. Col. Robert Earl Kelso and Peggy and A.J. “Jack” Lewis Jr. Both couples are longtime friends of the university and are very active in the community. The Kelso’s and the Lewis’ have donated their time, talent and have made generous gifts to the university allowing UIW to better serve the needs of students. UIW’s 424 undergraduates celebrated their graduation day on Sunday, May 6 at UIW’s first off-campus commencement at the Joe and Harry Freeman Coliseum.
2012 Alumni of Distinction The 2012 Alumni of Distinction for Service in Mission was presented to Sgt. Maj. Kent C. Dolasky, ’02 BBA, ’06 MBA. Do lasky is currently an Army Special Forces Sergeant Major and the Commandant of the Joint Special Operations Forces Senior Enlisted Academy in Tampa, Fla. “It was a great honor to be selected for this prestigious award,” he said. Dolasky was UIW’s first EArmyU graduate in Dec. 2002, receiving a Bachelor of Business Administration. In 2006 he earned an MBA through UIW’s online program during his deployment in the Middle East, where he also received a Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He is currently an Army Special Forces Sergeant Major and the Commandant of the Joint Special Operations Forces Senior Enlisted Academy in Tampa. “Being deployed is always a challenge, especially when you are in a leadership position,” he said. “Although we stayed very busy, I still found pockets of time for my studies.” 8 THE WORD | SUMMER 2012
Sgt. Maj. Kent Dolasky receives the Alumni of Distinction Award from UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese During his first graduate course, Dolasky said he was among the group ordered into Iraq where his textbook had to be dropped in a care bundle via parachute. With no internet connection during the initial ground campaign, he studied chapters and highlighted key points in his textbook.
“I was also able to take four classes during a five month deployment to Djibouti, Africa,” he said. “This was the perfect location to get some classes done and have time to reflect on the material, too.” Finding many ways to serve his country, Dolasky founded the volunteer organization “Buckets of Hope” after observing a homeless man with little protection from the cold. In 2010, he delivered his first bucket of hope filled with winter survival items to the needy in the Tampa, Fla. area. Since then, with the help of family and volunteers, he has provided hundreds of blankets, packed dozens of five-gallon “Buckets of Hope,” and served gallons of coffee to the homeless. Dolasky is also a member of UIW’s extended academics program curriculum committee and an instructor. He designed and launched a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration capstone course called Business Policy and Strategy and has taught 44 online courses for the university.
campus news
UIW Solar House hosts grand opening
UIW students reign as Fiesta® San Antonio royalty UIW student Katie Marie Rivera received the crown and scepter of Miss Fiesta® San Antonio 2012 at McCombs Empire Theatre in March. Miranda Gonzaba, also a student at UIW, was selected as the First Princess, and Selina Affram was appointed Second Princess. The royal court participated in various Fiesta® events April 19-29. “I was very excited and overPictured (L-R) Miranda Gonzaba, first princess; and Katie Rivera, whelmed when my contestant number and name was called,” Rivera Miss Fiesta®, with Selina said. “San Antonio is such a great Affram, second princess city and there have been so many people I have met who are very supportive, including UIW.” Rivera is a communications arts major with a minor in nutrition at UIW. Her future career plans include hosting her own show about preventative health and fitness aimed toward families and opening a community center that is family friendly and encourages others to live their best life. “I have this great opportunity to represent my city, help people, and gain great networking experience,” she said. “All of these elements, together and separately are helping me grow and become even more ready for life after I graduate.” As the First Princess in the court, Gonzaba took part in Fiesta® events alongside Rivera. She is a McNair Scholar, graduated from UIW with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts in May 2012 and began graduate school shortly after during the summer session. Fiesta® San Antonio began more than 120 years ago as a way to honor the memory of the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, and today celebrates the diversity and culture of San Antonio.
Annual Alumni Easter Egg Hunt creates memories and reconnects alumni UIW alumni brought their family to the second annual Alumni Association Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, March 31 on the UIW campus. Children hunted Easter eggs and had the opportunity to participate in numerous activities including face painting, coloring, arts and crafts and more. Guests were also greeted by the Easter Bunny. “The second annual Easter Egg Hunt was a huge success for the UIW Alumni Association,” said Yvette Reyna, ’03 BA, ’12 MA, chair of the event and member of the UIW Alumni Board of Directors. “This year the attendance doubled, amount of volunteers tripled and fun quadrupled.”
The UIW Solar House has taken shape on campus and is continuing to look to the future. A grand opening celebration was held Tuesday, April 24 to debut the Solar House and mark the culmination of the five-year engineering project. The house was designed and constructed under the direction of Dr. Allison Whittemore, chair of the UIW Department of Engineering and Physics, and with the assistance of Daniel Potter, ’01 BS, Solar House project manager. It was created to be a fully functioning residence as well as a visitor’s center and learning laboratory on Pictured (L-R) Dr. Louis Agnese, the UIW campus. Dr. Alison Whittemore, and Daniel During the five-year project, each succeeding class of seniors re- Potter take part in the ribbon searched and developed a specific cutting ceremony officially opening UIW’s Solar House. part of the house and its components. The students then passed on their information to the next group of seniors coming in. The structure is positioned facing due south to have maximum solar exposure. The solar array in the house was designed to provide electricity for the house year-round during peak daytime demand. UIW students are also able to utilize the house as a resource and lab. Engineering senior design students have access to the Solar House and will continue to work to improve the efficiency of the home. “Each student will continue to learn through the house and will use it as a brainstorming facility,” Potter said. “It is also a place to share with our visitors and showcase solar production, rain harvesting and share, how on a smaller scale, it works and comes together.”
Below: Enzo Pellegrino ’02 BBA, president of the UIW Alumni Board, and Kristi Pellegrino ’01 BBA with Isabella Marie Pellegrino and Enzo Pellegrino, III.
For more information on the Solar House, visit www.uiw.edu/houseofcards.
Left: Omar Saucedo ’09 BA with his daughter Lillyana go through the Easter eggs they collected.
Right: UIW alumni and their children hunt for Easter eggs on Dubuis Lawn. THE WORD | SUMMER 2012 9
university collective
Dr. Christy MacKinnon, professor of biology, was accepted as one of 17 undergraduate educators into the 2012 American Society of Microbiology (ASM) and Joint Genome Institute (JGI) Bioinformatics Residency. MacKinnon was also accepted in the week-long ASM/JGI Functional Genomics Workshop held at Hiram College in July 2011. She hosted a companion workshop, “Intergraded Microbial Genomes/Annotation Collaboration Tool,” at UIW in December, 2011. She is one of only several faculty members nationwide who has completed all three institutes. Drs. Amy Crocker, and Susan Smith, of the School of Physical Therapy were selected as joint recipients of the 2012 Young Alumni Appreciation Award from the Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Health Professions. Mark Stringham, assistant professor of the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, performed the role of Lepidus and Proculeis in New York for the Dramatist/Royal Shakespeare Company’s collaboration workshop on Shakespeare’s “Antony & Cleopatra” in April. Dr. Timothy Wingert, of the Rosenberg School of Optometry, was named a distinguished 10 T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 2
scholar and fellow in the National Academies of Practice (NAP). NAP is composed of 10 Academies representing health care practice in the areas of dentistry, medicine, nursing, optometry, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, rodiatric medicine, psychology, social work, and veterinary medicine. Only 150 active distinguished practitioners may be elected to each Academy. Wingert is also a Fullbright Scholar and past president of the Missouri Optometric Association.
that characterizes the university.
Dr. Sally Said, professor of Spanish, has been appointed as the 20122013 Moody Professor. Selection of the Moody Professor is based upon the recommendation of the faculty senate, the academic deans, and the provost in recognition of scholarship, teaching excellence and community service. As Moody Professor, Said will present two public lectures on a topic of her choice, one at UIW and one at Our Lady of the Lake University.
Directed by William Gokelman, chair of the UIW music department, the Cardinal Chorale helped raise 13.2 tons of food (equal to 20,700 meals) for the San Antonio Food Bank when they performed as the feature mentor choir in Sing Out San Antonio. The concert was sponsored by YouthCUE, an organization reaching out to high school students through choral and orchestral performance opportunities in the U.S. and abroad.
Assistant professors Dr. Tanja Stampfl, of the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences; Dr. Helmut Gottlieb, of the Feik School of Pharmacy; Dr. Osman Özturgut, of the Dreeben School of Education; and Dr. Veronica Acosta, of the School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering were selected as the recipients of the Provost’s Legacy Teaching Award for their commitment, within their first five years at UIW, to keeping alive the rich tradition of teaching excellence
An academic paper by Dr. Scott D. Roberts, of the H-E-B School of Business and Administration, was accepted for publication by the “American Journal of Business Education.” Roberts co-authored the work, “A Business Educator’s Guide to Transitioning to a Digital Cur-
Fr. Tom Dymowski, O.SS.T., chaplain, was awarded the Doctor of Ministry degree from the Oblate School of Theology (OST) at the commencement ceremony held in May.
riculum,” with Russell E. Rains and Gregory E. Perry of St. Edward’s University. In April, music instructor Jim Waller was accepted as a voting member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS). NARAS presents the Grammys every year and bestows awards to honor artistic achievement, technical proficiency and overall excellence in the recording industry. Associate professor Dr. Lisa Lockhart of the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences won the Society for the Teaching of Psychology award for her poster “ServiceLearning and Students’ Perceived Understanding of Social Justice Issues.” She presented at the Southwest Teachers of Psychology affiliate meeting at the Southwestern Psychology Association conference in Oklahoma City in April. Assistant professor of religious studies Dr. Glenn Ambrose’s book, “The Theology of LouiseMarie Chauvet: Overcoming Onto-Theology with the Sacramental Tradition,” was pub-
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lished by Ashgate Publishing in May. The book is available on Ashgate Publishing’s webpage (www.ashgate.com). Dr. James Creagan, ambassador in residence and distinguished professor of political science and international studies, was a mentor for graduate students at the University of Texas Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs in an International Strategic Crisis Negotiation Exercise. Run by the U.S. Army War College and UT, the two-day exercise included several U.S. Ambassadors and high-ranking military officers participating as mentors for “delegations” from various countries. Assistant professor of psychology Dr. Stephanie Boswell’s article, “I Deserve Success: Academic Entitlement Attitudes and their Relationships with Course SelfEfficacy, Social Networking, and Demographic Variables,” was published in the journal of Social Psychology of Education in April. Her article, “Old People are Cranky: Helping Professional Trainees’ Knowledge, Attitude, Aging, Anxiety, and Interest in Working with Older Adults,” appears in “Educational Gerontology.” During March, the Religious Studies faculty participated in interfaith activities on campus
and in the community. Adjunct professor Simone Brown moderated an Interreligious Dialogue Panel: “Food in a Religious Setting” for educators of young children at the 12th Diversity Conference of the Jewish Federation sponsored by UTSA. Sr. Martha Ann Kirk, CCVI, professor of religious studies, helped direct the “Where in the World is Compassion” conference held at UIW. The conference included participants from all over Texas and the Middle East. Sr. Eilish Ryan, CCVI, professor of religious studies, was named one of two distinguished alumnae receiving the Shamrock Legend Award during the 130th Anniversary Eucharist at Incarnate Word High School (IWHS) held on March 25. Given every five years, recipients of the award are nominated by their peers for making a significant difference in continuing the mission of the Sisters and the school. Vincent Rodriguez, assistant to the president for communications, completed the Crisis Leadership in Higher Education Executive Education Program in March at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. The program focused on the strategic communications and operational
UIW Chancellor Sr. Helena Monahan, CCVI, was designated Chancellor Emerita as she retired from UIW. A farewell reception was held on May 2 in the CHRISTUS Heritage Room at the Village at Incarnate Word. After 31 years of service, she will become president of Incarnate Word Academy in St. Louis, Mo.
issues when preparing for, responding to, and recovering from a crisis, such as oncampus violence and natural disasters. Robert Johnson, instructor of computer graphic arts, made two presentations at the University & College Designers Association (UCDA) in Blacksburg, Va. at Virginia Tech in May. The event was the 8th UCDA Design Education Summit, concentrating on design educators from North America. Johnson’s presentation featured two main topics: “Issues in Marketing a Design/Media Program” and “Marketing Graduating Students in Today’s Tight Market.”
Professor of English Dr. Jo LeCoeur presented the 2012 Sr. Margaret Patrice Slattery Lecture, “Gratitude for the Genuine Voice,” April 25 in Mabee Library’s Special Collections Room. “That Song Stayed Sung,” the subtitle of the lecture, was from the play, “Fiction,” which ran at UIW’s Cheever Theatre in April. Dr. Kathleen (Kathy) Goei, assistant professor for the Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions, was recently awarded the Nightingale Award for Excellence in Nursing by the Medical Center Rotary Club. T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 2 11
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By Crystale Lopez
Bringing childhood memories back to life By Crystale Lopez
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rother duo A.J. Moore ’04 BA and Antonio “Tony” Moore ’10 BA took childhood memories and brought them back to life through their comics and animation company “GudFit Entertainment.” The UIW alumni have created several web and print comics to include the colorful adventures of “Super Newts,” “Dorse and Doose,” and a self-published children’s book, “The Adventures of Dorse and Doose – Sit, Stay, Dorse, PLAY.” “GudFit Entertainment really began when A.J. wanted to take some of the characters from our childhood and animate them,”
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Tony said. “It started with that idea, then we began developing and adding back story to all the characters.” The brothers explained their animated amphibians, “Super Newts,” are a more recent creation originating in the late 90s. “Dorse and Doose,” on the other hand, stems from the early 80s. “In the comics and book, ‘Dorse’ is a red horse who thinks he is a dog,” A.J. said. “‘Dorse’ was actually a stuffed animal I had when I was kid and I always remembered it – he was missing an eye, had a busted neck and I called him ‘Dorse’ because I wasn’t sure if it was a dog or a horse.”
A.J. credited Tony for creating “Doose” the dog. The two said they went through several sketches debating what the dog should look like and there were several dogs they tried to use as inspiration, but it just didn’t stick until Tony suggested “Doose,” the dog with ears like a moose, and it all came together. While each brother has his own duties in the creative process, both agree that their entertainment company would not work without the other. “I handle the artistic side of things and character development but we always write together,” A.J. said. “There is never one story that is only written by me because that just would not work. We have to have each other’s feedback to be successful.” A.J. considers working side by side with his brother to be a blessing because they think along similar lines and if there is a disagreement they come to a resolution to get the work done efficiently. “A big part of my job is to bring the characters to life with a story that makes sense,” Tony said. “I am also the editor and offer critique of the work my brother creates. The input is very crucial to our projects – this way we are looking at it from two different perspectives.” In addition to the artistic and creative process, a big portion of the job is handling
marketing and understanding the business side of things. “You have to talk with print shops, and talk about rates, colors, and sampling and doing panels at conventions,” A.J. said. “I am also the face of GudFit Entertainment when we travel and go out to events to see our fans, parents, and children.” A.J. credits attending UIW with helping him create a solid foundation and network to fully pursue all his goals. While he knew of animation, UIW gave him knowledge of how things worked, without which he would have faced more challenges along the way. “One can argue that to learn all you have to do is download a tutorial or find a video on YouTube, and yes, you can do that, but you are not going to get the hands-on training of being in a classroom, experience of working with a team, or having an instructor that teaches you about deadlines and grills you to get things done like I had professor Adam Watkins,” he said. “UIW made it a lot easier to learn and to continue learning.” “Providing a real business-like level of expectations is the kind of challenge that prepares students for successful careers, and I think is the most valuable support that can be provided,” said Watkins, UIW associate professor of computer graphic arts. “As a 3-D animation student, A.J. was always ready for a challenge – he came to class prepared and did not shy away from sometimes harsh feedback and aggressive deadlines.” Having experienced the university through his older brother first, Tony said his decision to attend UIW was an easy one. “Being that A.J. attended Incarnate Word before me, I got to see the academics first-hand and how well it worked out for him and I thought, ‘Wow! This is how it could work out for me, too,’” Tony said. “I transferred to the UIW media/communications program from San Antonio College and UIW offered such a different aspect of learning that I feel I got a well-rounded education in the media/communications field.” “Hank McDonnell was one of the professors at UIW who showed me quite a few things about media and film, and now he is a fan on our Facebook page,” Tony said. “I feel like things came full-circle – I attended UIW to learn and now he is giving back and showing us support by keeping up with us and our work.” A.J. and Tony’s mom, Alberta Moore, agrees that having talent is important but getting an education is necessary when looking at the bigger picture of succeeding in life. “UIW was a big key in their success, because ‘where did you go to school’ is always brought up,” she said. “Now they have the best of both worlds – not only were they born with the talent but they can also say they attended Incarnate Word to help
Opposite page, (L-R) A.J. Moore and Tony Moore work on the latest adventures of Dorse and Doose.
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A.J. Moore reads to fans at the brothers’ book signing held Feb. 18 at the Twig Book Shop in San Antonio.
them succeed.” Watkins believes A.J. and Tony are both great examples of truly creative entrepreneurs. “They came to UIW with some great talent,” he said. “Their work at GudFit is really great to see and outside the bounds of what most students look to do after graduation. Clearly they are very happy with what they are doing and have accumulated fans around the world.” Support from family, friends and fans has proven to help A.J. and Tony in their animation endeavors. “We get a lot of independent press and fan feedback,” A.J. said. “Fans want to know what is going to happen next with our characters.” When they first started out with comics, they had no plans to branch into children’s books but one thing led to another and people started asking, “are you going to do something with the red horse?” “Everything was web comics and then people fell in love with ‘Dorse and Doose,” he said. “At first we thought we would turn them into a comic book, but it ultimately just screamed kid’s book so we came up with an entertaining plethora of characters with different backgrounds and nationalities from Louisiana to Argentina.” A.J. and Tony said they appreciate the positive feedback they receive, especially from parents. They enjoy having the opportunity to touch people’s lives and strike a chord with them. “Parents come to us at the comic conventions we attend so excited because there is something for kids and nobody is expecting to see a children’s book there,” A.J. said. “One of the reasons we do it is to keep the tradition of reading to your
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children alive. We thought about how great it was to have our mom read to us and how it made us feel, so hopefully some of these children can take some of our stories and make the same memories.” A.J., Tony, their fans, the Super Newts, and Dorse and Doose alike look forward to what the future holds. The children’s book is one of 10 planned in the series. The brothers also plan to continue making new creations for kids while working on projects for older crowds as well. “Our website guestbook shows we have fans from New Zealand, Hong Kong, India, Japan, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and all over so we also want to take our products global; on a large scale with merchandise like video games, animated features and motion pictures,” A.J. said. Both A.J. and Tony feel they are living the dream right now. “The joy is in giving back to the world, making so many people smile and getting to share our art and visions with others who might need it for inspiration or just because they need to laugh,” they said. “As Dorse would say, ‘it is the whole kit and caboodle.’”
Find out more about GudFit Entertainment by visiting http://gudfit.com.
international
A life changing experience
UIW students travel to Korea to teach English By Margaret Garcia
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Dr. Osman Özturgut, (far right) and Dr. Gregory Soukup gather with UIW students travelling to Korea this summer.
nce in a lifetime was just one of the ways students at the University of the Incarnate Word described their excitement about an upcoming trip abroad. Since 2008, UIW has been providing students an opportunity to participate in an all-expense paid trip to Gwangju, Korea to teach English to Korean children at the elementary and middle school levels. When the City of Gwangju became an official sister city with San Antonio in 1981, a component to the agreement called for educational collaboration between the cities. As a result, Gwangju and UIW signed a memorandum of understanding creating this program. Under the supervision of Dr. Javier Lozano, director of sister school partnerships, the program has given many UIW students the opportunity to teach English in Korea while learning more about the culture. Since its inception, more than 40 UIW students have taken advantage of this opportunity and parlayed it not only into a great educational experience but for some even a new career path. “Students who participate in this program return with much more than a better understanding of the Korean culture and teaching overseas. They also return with new ideas on making a positive difference at UIW and in their community,” Lozano said. This year’s trip is set for July 27 through August 18 but prior to making the trip, students must attend a 60-hour intensive teacher training course presented by Dr. Osman Özturgut, associate professor in UIW’s Dreeben School of Education. “This is not a program that starts in Korea but here at UIW,” said Özturgut. “I train these students not only for them to be effective language teachers but also to spread our Mission. These students are leaders with global perspectives.” “They are hardworking, dedicated and passionate individuals with strong educational qualifications, carrying the Mission of UIW to East Asia. I cannot tell you how proud I am as a faculty member with the quality of our students. They truly become ambassadors for UIW and I am always honored to be part of their experiences,” said Özturgut. The goal of the program is for Korean students to interact and learn from native English speakers, while offering UIW students the opportunity to engage and learn more about the Korean culture. Approximately 300 Korean students, ages eight to 14, participate in the three-week camp each year. The students are taught all subjects, from
math to music, during the three-week period all in English by UIW students. Juan Rodriguez, UIW senior accounting major, said his original intention was to participate in the program as a resume booster, a way to set him apart from other job applicants after graduation while getting the global experience necessary for business students. Instead, he got a life changing experience and is now preparing to spend a second summer in Korea. “Words can’t express how cool it was. I will always be grateful for the experience,” said Rodriguez. “It will open up doors in ways you don’t even know. They have very high expectations of us as teachers and we are treated as professionals. It is a responsibility that we must live up to.” This will be the first UIW study abroad experience for Trinidad Macias, a UIW Ph.D. student studying international education and entrepreneurship. She was approached by Özturgut about the trip and immediately applied for the program. “I’m very excited about the opportunity. I’m not sure what to expect but I am looking forward to being fully immersed in the Korean culture.” In preparation for the trip, students meet with others who have previously taught in Korea. The students share their experiences and challenges including engaging the Korean children, and erasing American stereotypes. Students have shared creative ways to teach American culture including demonstrating the Chicken Dance during music class which brings smiles all around or playing American games during physical education. While in Korea, the UIW students also meet as a group to compare experiences and share ideas about what techniques work with the children and which ones do not. They also prepare for one of the most memorable experiences of the trip, a 24-hour homestay with a Korean family, a time when they are fully immersed into the Korean culture. For Rodriguez the homestay was a life changing experience. “The food was incredible, the country was beautiful and I learned a great deal from my host family and the students I taught.” In fact, he was so moved by the experience Rodriguez is even thinking about teaching abroad as a career, something he never thought about doing before his trip to Korea. The experience changes lives on both sides of the globe.
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alumni
A Credit to her Community By Rebecca Esparza, BBA ’99 & MBA ‘03
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ack in the mid-1990s, Donna Normandin, BBA ’96, had no idea how a friendly chat with UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese would forever change the course of her professional career. “At the time I was working at the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Dr. Agnese was on our Board of Directors as treasurer,” she recalled. “I was the staff liaison to the Finance Committee and one day I arrived early for one of the meetings. Dr. Agnese started asking me about myself and, of course, the topic of education came up.” She explained to Agnese how she had finished two years at San Antonio College and yearned to go back to school, but wanted to attend class with working adults. Finances, as well as the possibility of limiting classes to just one per semester, were also of concern to Normandin. His immediate response to her: “Do we have a new program for you!” “It was the ADCaP program and as the old saying goes, the rest is history,” Normandin said proAudly. ADCaP is the Adult Degree Completion Program, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees in San Antonio, as well as a satellite location in Corpus Christi. Accelerated eight-week terms help working adults complete a degree with convenient evening or Saturday classes. She started the ADCaP program in 1996 and graduated by June of 1997 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. But she didn’t let her love of UIW end there. By 2006, a friend had contacted her about wanting to re-start the UIW Alumni Association. Normandin, who was now senior vice president of CRA and community development at Frost Bank, had a strong background with boards and foundations. It seemed like a perfect fit. “Part of what I do in my job is serve and participate on boards, committees and commissions and I’ve been tapped on many occasions to ‘create or fix’ organizations, which is why I was encouraged to send in my resume,” she said. “At the first board meeting, I was voted in as the president (of the Alumni Association) and I currently serve as past president. It was a great experience and working with the office of alumni relations was great.” Normandin’s service to the community is unparalleled, as she spends much of her time addressing issues that affect underserved populations, including those with limited resources. “We want to help make people more financially self-sufficient,” she said. “One of the issues that is very prevalent across our nation is credit. Easy access to purchasing power (in terms of credit) has ruined many.” In her research of the subject, one of the things she found missing in schools today was the instruction of financial/credit topics. The cycle must stop somewhere, Normandin decided, and she was determined to be part of the solution. “My interest was in trying to find a way to be in the classroom providing financial education to high school seniors in the inner-city, about money and financial pitfalls before they graduate and enter the adult world,” she said. Ideally, she wanted 17- and 18-year-olds to think hard before accepting their first credit card offer: “’Do I send it in or shred it,’” she wanted them to ask themselves. “We want them to make a long term decision, not a rash decision.” The Frost Financial Youth Academy has graduated over 400 students since its inception in 2006 and funded eight scholarships
(L to R) Dr. Louis and Mickey Agnese visit with Donna Normandin and Lisa Schultz, director of alumni relations before a football game. to colleges across the state. The eight-month program starts in October and ends in May of the following year. Each month different bankers teach a module of financial education featuring topics like general banking, checking, savings, economics, investments, credit, careers and college. “Students are provided incentives for participation and work towards having their name in a scholarship drawing held at the graduation,” said Normandin. “Currently we’re in two schools in San Antonio, as well as schools in Austin, Fort Worth, Houston and McAllen.” Frost Financial Youth Academy has also visited the UIW campus, completing sessions with the football team during camp in 2010. “We did a one-and-a-half-hour financial education session
with the players. We had fun, as did the team and many were shocked at some of the information provided. I think even the coaches learned something new. It was well received and we hope to do it again someday,” she said. Normandin has continued her service to UIW as the president of the Quarterback Club, the official booster club program for UIW Cardinals Football. The countless number of people she’s been able to assist, both through her volunteer work at UIW and her professional career at Frost Bank, owe a debt of gratitude to the ADCaP program and Dr. Agnese’s sage advice. “Had I not gone back to school and finished my degree, I would not be in the position I am today at the bank,” Normandin reflected. “But, I think the biggest thing it did for me was give me a great sense of pride that I finished my degree and felt so good about myself. I’m proud to say I have my degree and have it from UIW. In December of this year, I will also be able to say I have my MBA from UIW.” Normandin credits several people for their assistance during her time in the ADCaP program. She said the assistance and guidance from Chancellor Dr. Denise Doyle was invaluable. Normandin also remains good friends with many of the people she met in the program. Additionally, her mentor (and eventually her boss) at Frost Bank, Group Executive Vice President Bernard Gonzales encouraged her to finish school. “He was tough, but I learned so much from him and he helped get me where I am today.” But probably no one influenced her personally more than her mother, who was diagnosed with cancer shortly after she started the ADCaP program. “She was so supportive and never let me quit. She lived long enough to see me walk the stage and that’s a memory that will be with me forever.”
(L to R) Rudy Specia, Lisa Schultz, Donna Normandin and Steve Hemphill, assistant director of alumni relations tailgate at a Cardinal Football game.
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athletics
UIW Athletes Lead the Pack
SPORTS ROUNDUP
By Wayne Witt athletic year at Incarnate Word ends with an impressive E ach list of student-athletes who have received special recognition
for their efforts both on the field, court, track, or pool and in the classroom. There is also a second list, shorter and more exclusive that adds “of the year” behind a player’s name and an extra star or two to their credit. The 2011-2012 Cardinals had an impressive group of 11 individuals being singled out as the year’s best in their areas. UIW’s fall competition had four “of the year” awards presented to three athletes. Callum Riley, of men’s soccer was voted the Lone Star Conference (LSC) Offensive Player of the Year while teammate Chris Fidler received double honors as LSC Academic Athlete of the Year and the Daktronics South Central Regional Chris Fidler Callum Riley Player of the Year. Cross country’s Amanda Bishop was the LSC Female Runner of the Year. During the winter competition, a trio of Cardinals were recognized with “of the year” awards. Swimmer Mark Rubin was the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Academic Athlete of the Year while Kaitlyn Whalen, also a swimmer, was the RMAC
Female Freshman of the Year. Shaun Umeh of men’s basketball was named LSC Co-Defensive Player of the Year. When spring arrived another trio of Incarnate Word athletes were honored. Luke Trautmann was the LSC men’s tennis Sportsman of the Year while Coach John Newman was voted the Shaun Umeh Luke Trautmann LSC Women’s Coach of the Year. UIW track and field team member Howard Gill also received honors as the LSC Track Academic Athlete of the Year. As the dust settled on the athletic year, members of the UIW coaching staff along with athletic administrators voted on their own choices for male and female athletes of the year. Those honorees were Chris Johnson from basketball and Flower Castillo from golf.
Chris Johnson
Flower Castillo
Team UIW quest for the Corporate Cup By Rick Smith ’09 MAA
On a quiet Saturday morning in June, UIW was transformed into an Olympic village of sorts, with approximately 3,500 athletes from 49 companies competing in 13 events to be crowned the Corporate Cup Champion. UIW was selected by San Antonio Sports as the host location for their inaugural Corporate Cup, a “Corporate Olympics” type of competition, pitting like-sized San Antonio companies against each other in events such as a tug of war, dodge ball tournament, precision soccer kicks and football throws, bean bag toss (“corn toss”), a 5K wellness walk, a 5K competitive run, 4×100 and 4×400 relays, a threepoint shooting competition, golf chipping, and a 3-on-3 basketball tournament. The 66 members of Team UIW practiced for six weeks in preparation for the event. On Saturday, they welcomed their competitors, their families and friends to the beautiful UIW campus. Congratulations to Team UIW for placing third at the inaugural event in Division I (companies with over 1,000 employees.) First and second place winners were USAA and H-E-B, respectively. 18 T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 2
UIW Student Athlete of the Year Named By Brance Arnold ’10 MA
named Student-Athlete of the B eing Year is not only an honor bestowed
plary of a candidate for Student-Athlete of the Year. “He is what I call a shooting star—someone who comes in and does great things with a wonderful personality and attitude,” said Derek Riedel, UIW’s head cross country/track and field coach and Gill’s coach for his three years at the university. “He exceeded my expectations with his love for running, school, Christ, and his teammates.” Gill’s achievements and contributions have not only been academic and athletic, they have extended into the San Antonio community. He has volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, St. Peter’s School and Seton Home for Single Women via San Antonio’s Family Educators Alliance of South Texas (FEAST). Selected by UIW’s coaches and athletic administrative staff at the conclusion of each school-year, criteria for receiving the accolade is based upon a grade point average of 3.5 or better, academic classification as junior or senior, residence at UIW for a minimum of one year, and contributions to one’s team. The ballot for this academic year included forty-one student-athletes; the nominees represented seven of the nine men’s sports and nine of the ten women’s
for excellence on the field, track, or court, but for paramount achievements in the classroom and among the community as well. Student Howard Gill exemplifies these accomplishments and has been selected as the University of the Incarnate Word’s (UIW) Student-Athlete of the Year for 2011-2012. A biology major, Gill earned a 3.9 cumulative GPA to include a pristine 4.0 for the 2012 spring semester. He graduated summa cum laude in May and received his bachelor’s degree within three academic years. At UIW, he was a Dean’s List student, a Presidential Scholar, a Military Children’s scholarship recipient, a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, and secretary of UIW’s chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the UIW Pre-Med Society. Classified as a junior in athletics, he ran cross country for the Cardinals, finishing 36th at the Lone Star Conference (LSC) championships and 45th at Howard Gill the NCAA Division II South Central Regional meet. In track, he set UIW reStudent-Athlete of the cords in the indoor 1600-meters, outdoor Year for 2011-2012 1500-meters and the indoor 1k. During teams. the outdoor season, he placed 5th in the Lone Star Conference “He was the right person for the student-athlete of the year 800-meter run, attained 7th place in the 1,500-meter event, and award,” said Riedel. After receiving the elite distinction and was voted Lone Star Conference Academic Athlete of the Year completing his baccalaureate at UIW, Gill now plans to attend for track & field as well as led a group of 11 notable track and the University of Texas Medical School at Galveston this Fall. field athletes on LSC Men’s All-Academic Team. According to Howard’s coach, he embodies all that is exem-
2012 UIW Football Schedule Saturday, Sept. 1 7 p.m. Texas College Alumni Night & Hall of Fame Night Saturday, Sept. 8 6 p.m. @ Sam Houston State Friday, Sept. 14 3:30 p.m. @ Eastern New Mexico LSC Football Festival (Arlington, TX) Saturday, Sept. 22 7 p.m. West Texas A&M Saturday, Sept. 29 7 p.m. @ Midwestern State Saturday, Oct. 6 7 p.m. Texas A&M – Commerce Saturday, Oct. 13 7 p.m. @ Texas A&M – Kingsville Saturday, Oct. 20 7 p.m. McMurry Saturday, Oct. 27 7 p.m. Tarleton State Homecoming Saturday, Nov. 3 2 p.m. @ Angelo State Saturday, Nov. 10 7 p.m. Abilene Christian *Schedule subject to change Senior Day Home games are in bold. T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 2 19
faculty
Dr. Buzzelli credits the RSO faculty and staff for the award he received. Pictured (L-R) the administrative team including Vanessa Casanova, secretary to academic affairs; Dr. Ronald Richardson, clinic director of the Datapoint Clinic; Buzzelli, dean of the RSO; Dr. Timothy A. Wingert, associate dean of academic affairs; Kristine Benne, director of student affairs; Diana Balderas, executive coordinator; and Minnie Cieslak, administrative secretary to the dean.
Dean credits “Educator of the Year” award to entire School of Optometry By Crystale Lopez
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ew to the University of the Incarnate Word and to the state of Texas, Dr. Andrew Buzzelli, dean of the UIW Rosenberg School of Optometry (RSO), was presented with the “Educator of the Year” award by the Texas Optometric Association at the organization’s 112th Annual Convention in Austin. Before coming to UIW in June 2011, Buzzelli served as the director of advanced studies at Salus University in Pennsylvania. His university teaching responsibilities have included courses in the diagnosis and treatment of Acquired Brain Injury, Pediatric Optometry and Binocular Vision as well as Child Abuse and Intimate Partner Violence. He is one of 36 optometrists in the world recognized as a diplomat in Binocular Vision and Perception for the American Academy of Optometry.
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“The ‘Educator of the Year’ award is one of the best and most fulfilling awards I have ever received because of what it means and the number of people in the RSO it was given to,” he said. Buzzelli said the school needed to do an amazing amount of work in nine months to prepare for accreditation, so he and Dr. Denise Doyle, UIW’s chancellor, set out to distribute all of the work that needed to be done and to get the RSO where they wanted it to be. “It was the ability to get the RSO faculty and staff to show off their talents and skills, so Dr. Doyle and I gave them the direction of what to do,” Buzzelli said. “We did very well in the accreditation process and the award came as recognition of all that our faculty and staff accomplished.” Buzzelli said he and Doyle are very fortunate to be in a position to be working with a group of such incredible professionals. “People working together has made the difference for our accreditation at RSO,” Doyle said. “We have the right people in place which has helped us get a stronger sense of direction. The students are benefitting from the faculty we have hired and new clinical opportunities we have created. We have kept our focus and it has paid off for the school.” Doyle said so much of the work completed over the past year has been around communication and integration of the School of Optometry more strongly into the UIW experience. “Communication is extremely important, so we try to communicate and make sure that everyone is on the same page and moving in the same direction,” Buzzelli said. “It was also vital to realign the RSO with the UIW Mission because the Mission does not just address the university, it addresses every human being at the university and challenges them to greatness. It is about human dignity, social justice and personal growth.” Buzzelli said there is a difference between making doctors and optometrists. “Most optometry schools make great optometrists and we have talented people in the RSO to make great optometrists, but creating a doctor is different. Creating a doctor is about that personal growth and commitment to human dignity. “Our faculty understands that at UIW it is different and each student is mentored and challenged to be on their own personal journey,” he said. “UIW interns are mentored to understand that to take care of other people you have to have more than just optometry skills – personal growth and understand-
Dr. Buzzelli presented a plaque of appreciation to Scott Gorton and Mike Elton, representatives for Hoya Vision Care, at the RSO Interfaith Room grand opening held Monday, April 16. The room was made possible through a collaborative effort between RSO students and Hoya Vision Care. Photo by Chuck Gibbons. ing human dignity to be a doctor cannot be taught. It has to be embraced; it has to be your whole life and the person you are charged with taking care of has to be your whole life.” The RSO also prides itself on being the most diverse in the U.S. National Optometric Student Association. “Even though we are a Catholic university, we are the most diverse, have the most creeds, and are 63 percent female,” Buzzelli said. “UIW offers the perfect arena for growth no matter what your faith is.” Other changes implemented in the School of Optometry over the last year have included faculty governance, putting the faculty in charge of the curriculum and defining everyone’s responsibility and accountability to the main campus. “The faculty is the engine that drives everything in this school so you have to give them the tools in order to be alone with faculty governance,” Buzzelli said. “We also wanted to clarify that the RSO is not a second UIW campus, we are part of the main campus and exist as a part of the UIW community.” As goals are met, future goals are created. The UIW Rosenberg School of Optometry looks forward to graduating its first class, hiring more staff, continuing to guide and mentor faculty and students, and opening additional clinics around the city. “When I first came to UIW I recognized that in the Mission statement there was leeway in what I could do and implement in the curriculum that I could not do anywhere else,” Buzzelli said. “UIW gave me the opportunity so I came here and those changes have been made. The RSO is an incredibly unique optometry school in the midst of a very unique university.”
Pictured (L-R) Roya Attarhousseini, intern at the RSO; Dr. Buzzelli; and Sr. Walter Maher, CCVI, vice president for UIW Mission and Ministry. Photo by Chuck Gibbons. T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 2 21
students
Making the Grade By Ashley Lindstrom
Z
elina Moncivais likes to smile -- and along with 48 other students and graduates of the University of the Incarnate Word, this year she has one more reason to. The university has a long and well-known history of launching the careers of fine healthcare professionals. That tradition continues in 2012 with 49 UIW scholars accepted to doctorallevel studies at medical and professional healthcare schools around the nation. “I chose UIW because of the student-teacher ratio. I liked that I could go up to my professor and he or Zelina Moncivais University of Texas Health Science she knew who I was,” said Moncivais, Center at Houston School of Dentistry who was born in Laredo but relocated to San Antonio in the first grade. Moncivais’ advisor, biology professor Dr. Veronica Martinez Acosta, provided a great deal of this invaluable personal attention and encouragement. “I would talk to her all the time,” said Moncivais. In part because of two nephews and a niece with whom she relishes spending time, Moncivais intends to specialize in pediatric dentistry. “I don’t know why people are scared of going to the dentist... I want to change that.” The Feik School of Pharmacy accepted 30 UIW students into its entering class of 2016 that will begin classes in the fall. It is the largest number of UIW students ever admitted to the professional school. “We are proud to welcome the students into the Feik School of Pharmacy. Our curriculum is rigorous and fast paced. The admissions process was exceptionally competitive this year with GPAs and PCAT scores ranging in the top quartile,” said Feik School of Pharmacy Founding Dean, Dr. Arcelia Johnson Fannin. “The fact that we have admitted such a large number of Incarnate Word students attests to the quality of education that students receive at UIW.” Identical twin sisters Kosisio and Ifunanya Mora, biology majors hailing from Grand Prairie, Texas, have been accepted to Texas’ Joint Admission Medical Program. Both plan to specialize in orthopedics. “It might change in the future,” said Kosisio, “but that’s the one I know about now because Kosisio and Ifunanya Mora I play basketball.” According to Ifunanya, she and Kosisio realized early on that they Joint Admission Medical would attend the same university and study Program the same subject. “We both watched the same shows,” said Ifunanya, “like ‘Bill Nye the Science Guy.’” Last fall, UIW added a Doctor in Nursing Practice (DNP) program to its Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions. Lafitte Holmes graduated with his Master of Science in Nursing from UIW this year and has been accepted into the DNP program for the fall. 22 T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 2
“My passion has been to always care for people. I wanted to be a physician but God truly took me on a different path. With my current degree I am a provider. With a DNP, I can continue to influence change; teaching others how to have the passion and skills it takes to care for patients,” Holmes said. “It is an art and knowledge alone does not guarantee patient compliance. They have to be comfortable with you and God opens many avenues of conversation in my exam rooms.” Matt Gunst is a second-generation UIW alum. According to Gunst, the honors program was a driving force in his trajectory, and Dr. Acosta as well as chemistry professor Dr. Julian Davis made significant impacts along the way. “Not to say that all of the teachers aren’t wonderful,” said Gunst. Both of his parents are in healthcare -- his mother a nurse and UIW graduate. The dream of going into medicine “has been a whole-life type of Matt Gunst University of Texas Medical Branch thing,” said Gunst. “It’s something I’ve at Galveston Medical School wanted to do since I can remember.” As for his specialization, Gunst has his sights set on immunology and infectious diseases: “I’ve always been interested in the immune system, the body’s way of fighting off invaders.” Like Gunst, San Antonio-native Howard Gill’s drive to practice medicine is in his blood -- his father is a military doctor. “Through him I developed a love for being able to help people with their physical problems,” said Gill, who is thinking of specializing in emergency medicine. Numbering among his activities and accomplishments -- including research on leishmaniasis -- are hours spent at several hospitals around San Antonio. “I’ve volunteered at hospitals including Lackland Air Force Hospital where I volunteered in the emergency room and the orthopedics department, and University Hospital where I volunteered in the physical therapy department and the Express Med Center,” said Gill. He recalls recognizing his ambition to enter the medical field at the age of 12. Howard Gill That ambition along with his father’s influ- University of Texas Medical Branch ence and UIW helped him reach his goal. at Galveston Medical School “I loved all my UIW professors, but my advisor Dr. (Bonnie) McCormick and my professor of Developmental Biology and Cell Biology, Dr. Acosta, had a special role in encouraging my love for healthcare,” said Gill. “The UIW Pre-med Society also gave me good advice on knowing how to prepare for my interviews, volunteering, and what my next step in the application process needed to be.” Though she started her undergraduate years with a focus on synchronized swimming, Colleen Dwyer eventually “hunkered down and got into her studies” and was able to complete her degree
in just three years. Her acceptance to the University of Michigan’s School of Veterinary Medicine is a natural progression of her years of experience working with animals: Growing up, Dwyer’s family raised seeing-eye dogs and she was “always at the animal shelter.” While at UIW, she participated in an “amazing” internship at the San Antonio Zoo. (Even when she Colleen Dwyer wasn’t on the zoo campus, her lookout from University of Michigan School of Veterinary Medicine the McCombs residence hall afforded her an everyday view of the park’s elephants.) Dwyer also interned at the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Center in San Diego and the Alamo Heights Pet Clinic. An honors student, Dwyer said “I definitely had a lot of support from faculty.” UIW will begin classes for the new School of Physical Therapy this fall. The professional healthcare program will enable students to earn their Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees. UIW’s program is unique as it offers problem-based learning curriculum, a rigorous, highly structured teaching methodology which places the student in a position of active responsibility for learning and mastering content. Eight UIW students have been accepted into the inaugural class. California native Anthony Vanrachack was looking for a better life. He was taking classes at a San Antonio community college and working retail when an optometrist he had seen ran into him in the store. A conversation resulted in an invitation to work in his office. Observing the balance the optometrist had with his work and family life inspired Vanrachack, who is married, to pursue a degree in optometry. He picked UIW’s Rosenberg School of Optometry (RSO) because the mission aligned with his goals. “It was all God’s plan for me to go into this field,” said Vanrachack. He had planned to apply for the 2013-2014 class but an advisor in the RSO told him he had all the prerequisites and encouraged him to take his Optometry Admissions Test. He did well and was told he was a competitive applicant. “I am surprised and thrilled that I will be starting this fall, said Vanrachack. “By reaching my goals, I’m setting the bar for my younger siblings.” Born in Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico, 2012 UIW graduate Paola Mendez hopes to become a reconstructive surgeon. After all, it was her passion for technology, people, and education that drew her to medicine in the first place. “But I am aware that [my specialization] might change,” she said, “and I am always open to new things.” While earning her undergraduate degree, Mendez participated in regenerative protein research and Welch Foundation chemistry research. “I also enjoyed my involvement with the Chemistry Club as a member, secretary, and president by giving back to the community through community service,” said Mendez. “Most of all, being a PASS (UIW) Leader helped me grow as a person and learn from so many people and learn things I didn’t know about myself.” PASS UIW Leaders assist other students by preparing and leading study sessions and one-on-one tutoring sessions. They are role-models of successful students to their peers. “It is the work of all the faculty who teach these amazing students that results in their success,” said health professions advisor and biology professor Dr. Bonnie McCormick. “They are all great students.”
Joint Admission Medical Program Ifunanya Mora Kosisio Mora Texas Tech School of Medicine Queenie Abad University of Michigan School of Veterinary Medicine Colleen Dwyer University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Dentistry Zelina Moncivais University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Medical School Paola Mendez University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston Medical School Damian Carrillo Howard Gill Matt Gunst University of the Incarnate Word Feik School of Pharmacy Antonio Acuna Daliya Baker Nicholas Blackwell Adam Cabasos Karen Caga Danielle Elliott Ryan Evans Lauren Flieller Ashley Fonseca David Gonzalez Maria Hinojosa Alexandra Holbrook Elisabeth Lapp Hyunjung Lee Elaine Martinez
Shelby McBee Damian Mireles Jezzena Morin Mary Nguyen Brittany Oefinger Julio Perez Taylor Russell Jose Sanchez Vincent Savage Melanie Smith Kehmia Tangeh Valerie Tovar Thoaichau Truong Jeremy Varkey Morgan Wollslager
University of the Incarnate Word Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions Lafitte Holmes University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry Anthony Vanrachack University of the Incarnate Word School of Physical Therapy Danielle Aguilar Angelica Hajnos Keri Dawson Samantha Johnson Lauren Dugie Jessica Trevino Rebekah Garza Joy Turner
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C lass
notes
The window of UIW’s success stories! Submissions: alumni@uiwtx.edu
Photos submitted for Class Notes may be included on the online alumni community site.
1960s Lillian Dickinson ’62 BA has been retired for five years and is now serving as the President of the Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center. She will celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary in June. Mary Cay Murray ’68 BS serves as regional vice president for the Ladies of Charity of the USA, Southern Region. She recently attended the International Assembly in Madrid Spain, with representation from 22 nations across the globe. LOC is the oldest Catholic women’s organization in the world, whose mission is to serve the poor with charity, humility and simplicity.
1970s
1990s
Carol Darling ’71 BA recently completed five years of teaching drawing fundamentals and beginning painting at the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center in Kerrville. She plans to continue painting wildlife for gallery representation. Her website is www.cdarlinganimalart.com Darling is a signature member of the Society of Animal Artists, Int. She has also worked as a professional photographer, graphic designer and arts educator.
Elise Lopez ’98 BA played the mother of Henry Higgins in San Pedro Theater’s production of “My Fair Lady” and has been chosen to play the starring role in the summer production of “Hello, Dolly.”
Cynthia Mozisek Callins ’75 BA published a novel in March by Tate Publishing Company entitled “Under the Windmills.” It is a modern western fiction, with suspense and romance. More information can be found at www.CindyMCallins.com.
Janice M. Marak ’68 BA retired from Austin Independent School District and now volunteers for Austin Hospice.
Justice Phylis J. Speedlin ’75 BSN was recently honored for her work in co-founding the San Antonio Bar Association Community Justice Program which provides free legal services to needy residents and veterans in Bexar County. Speedlin has been selected by the State Bar of Texas to be the first recipient of the 2012 Judge Merrill Hartman Pro Bono Judge Award recognizing a judge who has provided exemplary pro bono service, including outreach to attorneys to increase the quantity and quality of pro bono representation.
Linda Milam ’69 BA has worked as the director of religious education at Sacred Heart Church in Uvalde for 28 years. This October she will have served in catechetics for 50 years.
Mirella Garza Kennedy ’76 BA currently serves as the principal of St. Thomas More Catholic School and continues to be an adjunct professor for the UIW ADCaP program.
Larry G. Appel ’91 BBA recently celebrated his one year wedding anniversary with wife Lucy. He also began a sales job as senior fire alarm sales representative at MCS Fire & Security. Joni Luna ’93 BS serves as a women’s athletic coordinator at San Diego High School located in San Diego, Texas. She has also started South Texas Elite Sports Academy offering camps and clinics. Muriel Rhoder ’97 MBA serves as the auditing manager for the San Antonio Housing Authority. Nancy Glass West ’94 MA has a new novel coming out this summer, “Dang Near Dead.” More information on her three novels can be found at www.nancygwest.com Retired Capt. Gordon Livingston ’95 MBA retired from the U.S. Navy Reserve in June 2011 after 30 years of combined active and reserve service.
1980s Deborah Benavides ’83 BA serves as the senior academic advisor for the College of Architecture at UTSA. In October, she will present “Hitting the High Notes for Success: A Working Guide to Help Students with Asperger’s Syndrome” at the National Academic Advising Conference in Nashville, Tenn. Nancy M. Cano-Reyes ’87 BSN works at Methodist Hospital as a nurse director. She cheerfully welcomes UIW nursing students every semester. Alfreda Carnes Poth ’28 IWHS ’37 BA turned 102 on May 24, 2012. She taught in the Poth Independent School District for 42 years and now resides in San Antonio at the Haven in Stone Oak.
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Sharon Struckhoff Kotzur ’87 BA is completing her 25th year as a secondary art teacher at Pleasanton ISD. She lives in Floresville, Texas with her 15-year-old son, Jared and her husband Dennis.
Asia Ciaravino ’98 BA co-founder and executive director of Classic Theatre was named as the president and CEO of San Pedro Playhouse. San Pedro Playhouse begins its 100th anniversary season this fall.
Heather Bonnette Perez ’97 BSN will start her family nurse practitioner master’s degree at Prairie View A&M University in the fall of 2012.
Dr. Noel Archambeault ’96 BM was the featured soprano singer at Gore Recital Hall of the Roselle Center for the Arts on the University of Delaware (UD) campus in Newark. She teaches applied voice, vocal pedagogy and lyric diction at UD. Amalia Ortiz ’96 BA was accepted to the creative writing graduate program at The University of Texas-Pan American. She will begin pursuing a master’s degree in creative writing this fall. She was recently chosen as one of 10 winners of VIA’s 2012 Poetry on the Move contest and was also invited to perform at the Havana International Poetry Festival in Cuba.
2000s
at the 23rd International Nursing Research Congress in Brisbane Australia. Salvador Salazar ’05 BAAS received his master’s degree in political science from American Military University in February. Meghan Oswald ’06 BA is currently serving as vice president of development and communications for Haven for Hope. Ray Lopez ’07 BBA has joined Omnitrans as the new director of safety and regulatory compliance and will oversee their security, safety and loss prevention operations. John E. Boyd ’08 BBA opened his State Farm Insurance Agency in New Braunfels in June.
2010s Wanita Mercer ’06 BA ’12 MAA started work in the San Antonio Independent School District as a GEAR UP college readiness coach and was accepted into the UIW Doctor of Education program with an emphasis in organizational leadership. Gabriela Canavati ’10 BA won the prestigious Charles B. Rangel Graduate Fellowship in International Affairs. The Fellowship provides for two years of graduate school with generous stipend, followed by appointment as a Foreign Service Officer of the United States. Canavati is one of only 20 individuals in the U.S. to win the fellowship in 2012. Antonia Saldana ’10 MAA began working as director of human resources at Gold Spur Trucking LLC. Sabrina Koll ’11 MBA began her new job as federal bank supervision officer at the Federal Bank of Germany. Phillip James ’11 BA serves as director of photography & digital effects for a new Mixed Martial Arts reality series, “MMA Cage Quest,” airing weekly on regional station KCWX (Seguin). George Ybarra ’12 BA serves as the assistant vice president for service delivery for Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio.
Byrdie Franco-Rocha ’01 BBA recently relocated to San Antonio from Dallas and is serving as the marketing director for LATISM’s 2012 national conference to be held in Houston this October. LATISM or Latinos in Social Media, is the largest, most influential Latino organization engaged in the new multicultural web. Franco-Rocha also serves as the director of community outreach for Sanford Brown College San Antonio/Austin markets. Dr. Jacob K. Tingle ’02 MAA was promoted to assistant professor of the practice, business administration. Additionally, he serves as the director of the sport management program at Trinity University. Kuei-Yuan Wang ’03 Ph.D. won Taiwan’s National Foreign Affairs Commendation issued by the Foreign Ministry.
John Gardiner ’08 MAT Rio San Antonio Cruises boat driver became Champion of Rio Rodeo, unseating the previous five-time champion.
Peter and Nancy Stichler Reininger ’74 BS ’92 MEd will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary on August 25.
Barbara Michelle de Guzman ’05 MSN RN had her research accepted for presentation T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 2 25
In Memoriam Sherwood Inkley, husband of Bebe Canales Inkley former student ’57 U.S. Navy Retired Capt. Margaret C. Donoghue, ALSR, ’54 BSN Donald Richard Havel, former employee Rose Marie Herrera Martens ’58 BSN Sr. Nora Marie Walsh, CCVI ’67 BSN Jimmy A. Castro ’78 BA Gene C. Luce Jr. ’01 BA Jorge Romay, brother of Dr. Luz Romay, CCVI Col. John J. Harvey Jr. ’73 BSN Sr. Mary Kenneth Andreotti RSM ’64 BS Tessie Bennett Gonzales ’50 BSN Edith Imogene Bramblett ’72 BM Clarence F. Theis ’73 MA David Joseph “Bucky” Gonzalez ’01 BBA Sr. Alfreda Leopold IWBS ’58 BA Clara Lynn Taylor ’58 MA Barbara Ruth Mallernee ’52 BSN Beverly Marie Halter ’83 BSN Michael V. Zellers, dance faculty Sr. Mary Bernadette Burke, CCVI ’55 IWHS ’73 BA Margaret Eager Butler, RN ’41 Santa Rosa School Dr. Francis “Frank” Edward O’Neill, benefactor Mary Belle Watson Blagg, former student, ’47 Melissa DuBose ’01 BBA Christine E. Craig ’77 BA Maria Avelar, mother of Ernest Avelar ’98 BA
Weddings and Engagements
Paola Alicia Pino ’06 BA ’10 MA, married Meraldo Valentin Queipo in February at The Bushnell.
Future Cardinals Alana Walsh Trammell ’99 BA married Cody Trammell of Seguin, Texas on July 16, 2011. They are expecting their first child.
Eunice Lopez ’00 BBA with Red Cardinal at the Martha’s mixer
William Dockery ’10 MA & Daisy Dockery ’07 MA had their first child, Isabella Katherine on April 28, 2012. Vanessa Ann Onofre-Chavarria ’07 BA, and Peter Alexander Chavarria welcomed their first child, Belinda Rayann, on March 14, 2012.
Megan Ann Petri ’04 IWHS ’09 BBA & Cameron Alan MacDiarmid married June 30, 2012. Darren Dietzmann ’00 BBA & Santana Koszarek married April 20, 2012. Erika Martinez ’11 MBA married Ronnie Sauceda on April 21, 2012. Taylor P. Fox ’12 BA is engaged to marry Zach Chapman ’12 BA on Oct. 6, 2012. Kimberly Watts Hoggatt ’97 BA, married Steven H. Hoggatt on April 27, 2012.
Phonathon
Amyn Madhani ’12 PharmD, Dick McNary and Margie Ytuarte ’07 BBA ’10 MBA competing in the tricycle races at UIW Night at the Missions game
UIW’s annual event to raise funds for student scholarships, technology upgrades and various student activities is right around the corner!! From Sept. 29-Oct. 4, students will connect with alumni and chat about the latest campus news and events. Alumni will be able to show their support of these programs and the university by making pledges towards the Annual Fund. No matter what the amount, your gift will make a difference in the future of UIW and its students. For more information, or to volunteer, contact Patrick Greener at greener@uiwtx.edu or call (210) 805-5832.
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Alumni Out and About
Jessica Leist ’09 BBA MS and Laurie Aguillon ’11 BBA check alumni in at the Martha’s mixer
ALUMNI EVENTS UNIVERSITY OF THE INCARNATE WORD
UPCOMING EVENTS Homecoming & Family Weekend Save the date Oct. 25-28!
Trunk or Treat
Alumni, join UIW for the 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat during Homecoming!
Mark your calendar now and make plans to visit Incarnate Word. Our Homecoming and Family Weekend offers fun for everyone. Make sure to visit the alumni website at www.uiwalumni.org and update your contact info so you won’t miss a thing.
Trunk or Treat chair and alumna Yvette Reyna ’03 BA ’12 MA passes out candy with her two sons.
UIW Alumni Tailgate Schedule
Mark these dates and join us at the alumni tailgate area! Sept. 1 UIW vs. Texas College
Greek alumni & student government alumni
Saturday Sept. 14 UIW Football @ Eastern New Mexico Univ. Dallas Cowboys Stadium Dallas area alumni
Saturday Sept. 22 UIW Football vs. WEST TEXAS A&M
UIW Rock’ N Red Birds Take the Get Fit Challenge and help UIW take back 1st place this year! Whether you are a walker, jogger or runner, you can get fit and help UIW compete in the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Marathon and 1/2 on Nov. 11, 2012. Show your interest at www.uiwalumni.org/rocknredbirds.
Military Appreciation Military alumni and military spouse alumni
Saturday Oct. 6 UIW Football vs. TEXAS A&M – COMMERCE
Hispanic Heritage / Faculty & Staff Appreciation / Cardinal Couples
Saturday Oct. 20 UIW Football vs. McMURRAY Pharmacy and Nursing alumni
Saturday Oct. 26 UIW Football vs. TARLETON STATE UNIV (Homecoming)
Alumni, parents, students, families, friends of UIW
Saturday Nov. 10 UIW Football vs. ABILENE CHRISTIAN (Senior Day) Class of 2008-2012 alumni
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Meet the Board
In this issue, meet Board of Trustees member Mike Belz By Crystale Lopez
U
niversity of the Incarnate Word Board of Trustees member Mike Belz may have only joined the board in 2011, but he is no stranger to the university. “I came to San Antonio from east St. Louis, Ill. in 1971 on an academic leadership scholarship to attend St. Mary’s University,” he said. “While I was here, though, I wanted to open my eyes to different universities and took theology at UIW (then Incarnate Word College) in the mid-70s.” In taking those courses, Belz was very impressed with the university. “The Sister’s at UIW were great and I liked their charismatic charm,” he said. “The UIW campus itself also has character and personality. I have always enjoyed the enthusiasm and seeing the students walking around to their classes in the morning.” Belz said he was honored when UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese called and asked if he would consider being a board member, he had previously served as chairman of the UIW Development Board. Belz enjoys walking around the campus knowing, as a board member, he can make a difference. “I see these students who want to experience life on a small campus, but want something
Moment for Reflection
Let the light of your faith shine By Most Reverend Gustavo García-Siller, M.Sp.S Archbishop of San Antonio
E
ach day of your life is a gift from God, providing you with the opportunity for a new beginning and to meet the challenges before you, while celebrating its joys. Your Catholic education prepares you to embrace the new, exciting and demanding days ahead. Through the deepening of your relationship with God, you can measure your preparedness to proclaim the Gospel, transforming your knowledge and faith into action. I encourage you to allow your faith to always guide the important decisions ahead of you and direct your journey through life. Never stop listening for God’s will in your heart, and do not be afraid to say, “Yes” to his calling. Jesus declared, “You are the light of the World.” So let the light of your faith shine brightly for all to see, in every place and in every circumstance. Blessed John Paul the Great encouraged the young women and men of the world to share their faith with a world who needs to know Him. He said, “They yearn for the life which Christ came to give in abundance…In your hands, carry the cross of Christ; on your lips, the words of life; in your hearts, the saving grace of the Lord.” 28 T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 2
bigger,” he said. “Lou has done an excellent job of turning dreams into realities – he paints a picture, creates the opportunity, and it becomes a win/win situation for all involved.” Being supportive of the leadership and the cause are two key ingredients Belz feels are important in achieving long-term goals for UIW. “It is essential to support the plans that Lou has for the university,” he said. “I like the professional schools he has brought to UIW and exposed undergraduates to, including the Rosenberg School of Optometry, and Feik School of Pharmacy. I am also excited about going to the next division in the NCAA.” “My dad always said when you surround yourself with good people, good things happen,” Belz said. “I like being with enthusiastic people and being a board member is the right place for me to be right now.” Belz has been the president of Catholic Life Insurance since 1984. He and his wife Esther reside in San Antonio while their three children live in different locations across the country. Daughter Jessica is a surgeon in St. Louis, son Christopher lives in New York City, and son Robert will be graduating from the Air Force Academy as a pilot and will be stationed in Del Rio.
A gift for opportunity Shared by Cynthia Harris, trustee to the Eleanore Kiersted Trust
W
hen Eleanore Gertrude Jones started her career in nursing, she never thought she would be the U.S. Army Air Force nurse in charge of “troop trains” during World War II ferrying the wounded from one shore to another. One night she and the engineer had harsh words as the train huffed and puffed at a lonely depot in the middle of nowhere. The two sat waiting for the ambulance to pick up a wounded soldier who was on a stretcher. The enEleanore Kiersted’s gift gineer had reached to UIW ensures future his limit and started generations will learn to build a head-ofthe importance of caring steam to leave the for others. depot. Jones was not afraid of the engineer or the train and stood boldly in front of the engine daring the engineer not to move until the ambulance arrived to pick up
Eleanore and “Chic” Kiersted the wounded soldier. She took her charge to care for the sick and wounded very seriously and was not about to let a soldier in her care be left alone on the train tracks in the middle of the night. Jones liked to tell her caregivers that she walked across the United States both ways on every train trip as the train cars had stretchers stacked up to three-high on both sides of the aisle. As an Army Air Force nurse, she outranked Army Chief Warrant Officer Wynkoop “Chic” James Kiersted, but
married him anyway on April 21, 1948 in Camp Hood, Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Incarnate Word College in 1952. Upon earning a master’s degree from the University of Southern California in Library Science, she started a second career working in the Los Angeles County school system. After she retired, she continued volunteering in many local school libraries around Santa Clarita, Calif. She was instrumental in creating a research library of Southern California history in the local historical society. She and husband Chic also contributed funds to the library and nursing scholarship program at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita. The Kiersted’s did not have children of their own and also wanted to give to UIW. She shared a generous gift of $25,000 to UIW’s Mabee Library so other people’s children could have the opportunity to learn to care for others as she had. She was born April 9, 1919 and passed away Dec. 14, 2010 at the age of 91.
Elevate: Rising to the Occasion With hearts lifted and minds elevated, more than 50 women leaders attended “Elevate: Rising to the Occasion” in February at the Bright Shawl. They were educated on the impact their selfless gifts of volunteering and philanthropic giving throughout their life has on others. The attendees heard powerful stories of success through proper retirement and estate planning. The half-day inaugural women’s conference was hosted by the UIW Planned Giving Council and the UIW Alumni Association. If you would like to help plan future women’s conferences or would like to be placed on an interest list, please call Alex Castaneda at (210) 829-6071 or e-mail her at macasta1@uiwtx.edu.
Left: (L-R) Cindy Escamilla, UIW general counsel, and Lisa Uribe-Kozlovsky ’06 Ph.D. and associate director for programs for Women’s Global Connection (WGC), discuss WGC projects. Right: Conference participants listen to success stories of other women leaders.
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University of the Incarnate Word 4301 Broadway San Antonio, Texas 78209
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Nearly 500 auction party guests and 231 golfers made this year’s Swing-In the most successful one in the event’s 35-year history. Thanks to the generous support and commitment of our development board members and many sponsors, over $319,000 was raised for student scholarships. Make plans now to join us for next year’s events: Auction Party, May 2, 2013 and Golf Tournament, May 3, 2013.
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1. Cathy and Todd Rasco, Donna Normandin 2. Diana and Roland Trevino 3. First Place Team, Scott McMurrian, Earl Harmsen with golf chair Frank Kudla, Rick Edgerton and John Fitzgerald 4. Gwen Gammill, Linda Carr, Rita Stich and Nancy O’Neal 5. Elias and Cassie Villegas, Becky & Paul Saenz 6. Olga Kucerak, Dr. Louis Agnese, Sr. Kathleen Coughlin 7. Damita and Kerry Fedor 8. Anthony Santillano, John Lamey, Scott Beckendorf and Steve Ison.