INSIDE
2021 Issue
3 Class of 2021 Legacy Students Legacy Families
Published by Alexandria Public Schools
ALEXANDRIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION Dean Anderson Dave Anderson ‘72 Pam Carlson Angie (Benham, ‘88) Krebs Jeff Patience Sandy Susag Alan E. Zeithamer ‘72 SUPERINTENDENT Rick Sansted Alexandria Public Schools EDITOR Jill Johnson Communications & Marketing Director Alexandria Public Schools
‘53
‘85
CONTENTS
OBERG LEGACY Marki Oberg (2021) Father Jeff (‘85) Oberg Grandfather Donovan (‘53) Oberg
Legacy Business Anthony Zimny ‘03
13
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Celeste Edenloff Colin Sokolowski Rachel Barduson
Alumni Feature Tom Anderson ‘76
14
PROJECT ASSISTANCE Carol Gaffaney Douglas County Historical Society Maggie Timm ART DIRECTION/GRAPHIC DESIGN Lynn Barton
Legacy Families Legacy Business Spotlight Alumni Feature Story Bright Stars, Bright Futures Home Grown Leaders Education Foundation News Alumni Marketplace Homecoming Connections
Let us know where you are and what you are doing so we can connect you to your classmates through the Alexandria Alumni Magazine. We would greatly appreciate your assistance in our efforts to reach out to alumni by making them aware of this magazine. Additional copies are available at the District Welcome Center, 1410 South McKay Avenue, Alexandria, and online at www.alexschools.org. To request a copy by mail, email your current contact information to jjohnson@alexschools.org or call (320) 762-2141 ext. 4202. ©2021 Alexandria Public Schools ISD 206. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without obtaining written permission.
QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS Please direct questions or comments to Jill Johnson at jjohnson@alexschools.org SUBSCRIPTIONS Alexandria Alumni Magazine is a complimentary annual publication of Alexandria Public Schools with financial support from the Alexandria Education Foundation and paid advertisers. Donations to help offset the costs of the magazine are welcome and can be sent to: Alexandria Education Foundation, P.O. Box 308, Alexandria, MN 56308.
3 13 14 16 18 20 22 24
KEEP IN TOUCH
COVER PHOTO Jennifer Guenther Photography ‘91 Alexandria, Minnesota www.jenniferguentherphotography.com 320-815-8174 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jennifer Guenther Photography ‘91 Mark Ripley, Select Digital Memories
The Alexandria Alumni Magazine is an annual publication that seeks to connect graduates of Alexandria High School (AHS), Central High School (CHS), Jefferson High School (JHS), Alexandria Area High School (AAHS), non-graduates who attended these schools for at least one year, and all present and former members of the faculty, administration and school board.
Home Grown Leaders Kevin Guenther ‘90 Jason Peterson ‘90
2 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexschools.org
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Alexandria Public Schools P.O. Box 308 Alexandria, MN 56308
Legacy Families This year we honor these graduates of the Class of 2021 as legacy students. Their mothers and/or fathers, and in many cases their grandparents and/or great-grandparents, graduated from one of our high schools (Alexandria, Central and Jefferson).
‘99
‘01
‘79
‘96 ‘99
ARNESON LEGACY
BECKER LEGACY
Cody Arneson (2021) Mother Angela (‘01) Arneson
Austin Becker (2021) Parents Shawn (‘99) & Mary (Leesch, ‘99) Becker Grandmother Renee (Kloehn, ‘79) Becker
CAVERS LEGACY Connor Cavers (2021) Father Andrew (‘96) Cavers
‘55 ‘91
‘88 ‘90 ‘92
BEULKE LEGACY Makayla Beulke (2021) Parents Roy (‘88) & Tonya (Thesing, ‘92) Beulke Grandmother Frances (Tonn, ‘55) Beulke
‘91
BUTTWEILER LEGACY DOHERTY Evan Buttweiler (2021) LEGACY Parents Ted (‘91) &
Anna Doherty (2021) Mother Sherri (Cullen, ‘90) Doherty
Gaia (Berg, ‘91) Buttweiler
‘85
‘67
‘95 ‘89
‘89
DOMINE LEGACY
DRIEMEYER LEGACY
FLEMING LEGACY
Jada Domine (2021) Parents Chris (‘85) & Shanna (Nelson Burns, ‘89) Domine
Abigail Driemeyer (2021) Mother Michelle (Kolle, ‘89) Driemeyer Grandmother Janet (Kleven, ‘67) Kolle
Christian Fleming (2021) Mother Cindy (Hansen, ‘95) Fleming
2021 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 3
Legacy Families ‘41
‘97
‘72 ‘94
‘72
‘99
‘44
GODFREY LEGACY
HARRIS LEGACY
Isaiah Godfrey (2021) Parents Justin (‘97) & Sara (Larson, ‘99) Godfrey Grandparents Marc (‘72) & Nancy (Reinhardt, ‘72) Godfrey Great-grandparents Jarmon (‘41) & Vivian (Angen, ‘44) Godfrey
Emily Marie Harris (2021) Mother Christine Marie (Meyer, ‘94) Harris
‘89
‘72
‘76
‘89
‘53
‘52
‘95
‘93
JOHNSON LEGACY
JARVI LEGACY
Ethan Johnson (2021) Parents Brad (‘89) & Jodi (St. Martin, ‘89) Johnson
Jocelyn Jarvi (2021) Parents William (‘93) & Shannon (Anderson, ‘95) Jarvi Grandmother Collette (Heid, ‘72) Jarvi Grandmother Kari (Diekman, ‘76) Anderson Great-grandfather Gordon (‘52) Diekman Great-grandmother Elaine (Urness, ‘53) Diekman Martin
‘84
‘84
‘70
HOLM LEGACY
HONKOMP LEGACY
JOHANNES LEGACY
Brianna Holm (2021) Father Doug (‘84) Holm
Garret Honkomp (2021) Father Curt (‘84) Honkomp
Grace Johannes (2021) Grandmother Mary Claire (Hammer, ‘70) Hansen
4 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexschools.org
Legacy Families ‘00 ‘67
‘97
‘00
‘37
JUNTUNEN LEGACY KLIMEK LEGACY
KLUVER LEGACY
Faith Juntunen (2021) Mother Amie (Heinrich, ‘97) Moos
Riese Kluver (2021) Father Brent (‘00) Kluver Mother Lindsey (Kopischke, ‘00) Buttweiler
Maya Klimek (2021) Grandmother Patricia (Mrnak, ‘67) Klimek Great-grandmother Sarah (Robbins, ‘37) Mrnak Nelson
‘96 ‘97
‘97
‘97
‘71
‘70
‘76
‘71
JOHNSTON LEGACY
OLSON LEGACY
Ella Johnston (2021) Parents Shane (‘97) & Sarah (Olson, ‘97) Johnston Grandmother Carol (Beheng, ‘71) Cordes Grandfather Stuart (‘70) Olson
Spencer Olson (2021) Parents Bob (‘96) & Jackie (Schmidt, ‘97) Olson Grandfather Bill (‘76) Schmidt Grandmother Mary (Zwieg, ‘71) Olson
‘87
‘87
‘64
‘37
‘64
‘37
PANTHER LEGACY
PANTHER LEGACY
Grace Panther (2021) Mother Pamela (Boesl, ‘87) Panther Grandmother Phyllis (Herzog, ‘64) Boesl Great-grandfather Francis (‘37) Herzog
Molly Panther (2021) Mother Pamela (Boesl, ‘87) Panther Grandmother Phyllis (Herzog, ‘64) Boesl Great-grandfather Francis (‘37) Herzog 2021 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 5
Legacy Families
‘53
‘88
‘85
‘88
OBERG LEGACY
Marki Oberg (2021) Father Jeff (‘85) Oberg Grandfather Donovan (‘53) Oberg
OLSON LEGACY
PARKER LEGACY
Payton Olson (2021) Mother Kalee (Bodeker, ‘88) Olson
Brennan Parker (2021) Mother Anne (Sheehan, ‘88) Parker
‘85
‘50
‘87
PARTINGTON LEGACY
PRITCHARD LEGACY
Jacob Partington (2021) Parents Tom (‘85) & Jill (Eveslage, ‘87) Partington
Joseph Pritchard (2021) Grandmother Mary Lou (Searles, ‘50) Klug-Schlefsky
‘90
REINEKE LEGACY Emma Reineke (2021) Father Mark (‘90) Reineke
‘93
‘73
‘82
‘72
ROSKE LEGACY Larry Roske (2021) Mother Melissa (Eddy, ‘93) Roske Grandparents Michael (‘73) & Kathryn (Steidl, ‘72) Eddy 6 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexschools.org
SCHMIDT LEGACY Shyann Schmidt (2021) Father Sterling (‘82) Schmidt
‘81
SHELDEN LEGACY Mia Shelden (2021) Father Mike (‘81) Shelden
Legacy Families ‘95
‘64 ‘67
‘90
‘90 ‘42
‘67
‘45
STOTESBERY LEGACY
THORSON LEGACY
Aaron Stotesbery (2021) Parents Jeff (‘90) & Carie (Steen, ‘90) Stotesbery Grandfather Dennis (‘67) Steen
Jacksyn Thorson (2021) Father Travis (‘95) Thorson Grandmother Sandra (Kuehl, ‘64) Thorson Great-grandparents Otis (‘42) & Evangeline (Helgeson, ‘45) Kuehl Grandmother Patricia (Mrnak, ‘67) Klimek Great-grandmother Sarah (Robbins, ‘37) Mrnak Nelson
‘37
‘94
‘92
‘94
WEGNER LEGACY
SVEE LEGACY
Andrew Wegner (2021) Parents David (‘94) & Angela (Larson, ‘94) Wegner
Kaylee Svee (2021) Mother Kimberly (Bachmann, ‘92) Svee
‘97
‘95
‘70
‘93 ‘74
‘71
‘71
TILLESKJOR LEGACY
WIRTH LEGACY
Maci Tilleskjor (2021) Parents Jayson (‘97) & Amy (Ellingson, ‘95) Tilleskjor Grandfather Daniel (‘70) Ellingson Grandmother LaVonne (Porter, ‘74) Benson Grandfather Steven (‘71) Tilleskjor Grandmother Cheree (‘71) Anderson
Bennett Wirth (2021) Father Tyler (‘93) Wirth
2021 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 7
Legacy Families ‘99 ‘98
‘97
‘98
‘73
‘68 ‘73
‘70
‘73
BAUMANN LEGACY
DUMMER LEGACY
Mya Baumann (2021) Parents Adam (‘97) & Lacey (Johnson, ‘98) Baumann Grandparents Larry (‘73) & Lu (Simenson, ‘73) Johnson Grandfather Richard (‘73) Baumann
Taelor Dummer (2021) Parents Erik (‘99) & Carrie (Vendel, ‘98) Dummer Grandparents Paul (‘68) & Devona (Bylund, ‘70) Vendel
‘97
‘95
‘72 ‘93
‘63
‘91
‘62
BETTERMAN LEGACY
CAVERS LEGACY
Ellie Betterman (2021) Parents Robbie (‘95) & Angela (Kalina, ‘97) Betterman Grandfather Mike (‘72) Kalina Grandparents Chuck (‘63) & Kathy (Brede, ‘62) Betterman
Wyatt Cavers (2021) Parents Sean (‘93) & Jennifer (Langner, ‘91) Cavers
‘89
‘88
‘86
‘88
‘58 ‘64
BLOOM LEGACY DEISING LEGACY EIDEN LEGACY Cathryn Bloom (2021) Mother Kim (Wilson, ‘88) Bloom
Krista Deising (2021) Carla (Mast, ‘86) Zellner
8 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexschools.org
Jenna Eiden (2021) Parents Kelly (‘89) & Cynthia (Alm, ‘88) Eiden Grandfather Raymond (‘58) Alm Grandmother Mary Ann (Bjoralt, ‘64) Alm Russell
Legacy Families
‘86
‘78
‘86
‘58
‘87
JENSON LEGACY
JOHNSON LEGACY
KLUVER LEGACY
Kobe Jenson (2021) Grandfather James “Jay” (‘78) Jenson
Kaden Johnson (2021) Father Ronald (‘86) Johnson Jr. Grandfather Ronald (‘58) Johnson Sr.
Savana Kluver (2021) Parents Steve (‘86) & Jo (Jackson, ‘87) Kluver
‘94
‘67
‘88
‘65
‘94
‘71 ‘70
LAY LEGACY
LERFALD LEGACY
Connor Lay (2021) Mother Bonnie (Hvezda, ‘94) Lay Grandparents Jack (‘67) & Eldonna (Keipe, ‘65) Hvezda
Connor Lerfald (2021) Parents Wade (‘88) & Kristy (Danielson, ‘94) Lerfald Grandmother Janell (Wright, ‘71) Larson Grandfather Steve (‘70) Danielson
‘96
‘95
‘88
MAGAARD LEGACY MAGNUSON LEGACY MCCOY LEGACY Emma Magaard (2021) Mother Teryl (Townsend, ‘96) Magaard
Madison Magnuson (2021) Father Matt (‘95) Magnuson
Brady McCoy (2021) Father Jeff (‘88) McCoy
2021 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 9
Legacy Families ‘79
‘88
‘55
‘94
ANNIS LEGACY
NELSON LEGACY
MONCEAUX LEGACY
Zane Annis (2021) Mother Natalie (Johnson, ‘88) Annis
‘81
Claire Monceaux (2021) Mother Julianne (Visser, ‘94) Monceaux
Dylan Nelson (2021) Father Jerry (‘79) Nelson Mother Patricia (Dvorsak, ‘81) Larson Grandfather Gerald (‘55) Nelson
‘89
‘48 ‘57
‘84
‘59
NELSON LEGACY
LEBRASSEUR LEGACY
Nicholas Nelson (2021) Mother Linda (Perry, ‘89) Nelson Grandparents Michael (‘57) & JoAnn (Schneiderhan, ‘59) Perry
Eric LeBrasseur (2021) Father James (‘84) LeBrasseur Grandmother Kathryn (LeRoy, ‘48) LeBrasseur Great-grandfather James (‘17) LeRoy – no picture available
‘84
‘60
‘84
‘84
LUECK LEGACY
ANDERSON LEGACY
MORICAL LEGACY
Gannon Lueck (2021) Father James Michael (‘84) Lueck
Miriam Anderson (2021) Father Jeff (‘84) Anderson Grandfather Vernon (‘60) Anderson
Nolan Morical (2021) Father Todd (‘84) Morical
10 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexschools.org
Legacy Families ‘85
‘88
‘56
‘94
‘99
‘68
BOSEK LEGACY
BAAS LEGACY
Kaisa Bosek (2021) Parents Jeff (‘85) & Karen (Johnson, ‘88) Bosek Grandmother Arlene (Olsen, ‘56) Bosek
Hunter Baas (2021) Parents Michael (‘94) & Amanda (Hertel, ‘99) Baas Grandmother Marie (Collins, ‘68) Baas
‘72
‘91 ‘88
‘36 ‘69 ‘44
‘69
ANDERSON LEGACY
ANDERSON LEGACY
Sophie Anderson (2021) Father David (‘72) Anderson Grandparents Paul (‘36) & LaVonne (Johnson, ‘44) Anderson
Gunner Anderson (2021) Parents Terry (‘91) & Claire (Tobolt, ‘88) Anderson Grandparents Earl (‘69) & Sonya (Rajdl, ‘69) Anderson
‘92
‘91
‘92
‘87
‘61
‘38
MOSKE LEGACY
KREMER LEGACY
Sabrina Moske (2021) Mother Brenda (Bruzek, ‘91) Jespersen Stepparent Bob (‘87) Jespersen Grandmother MayVis (Hoffland, ‘61) Bruzek
Myah Kremer (2021) Parents Pete (‘92) & Kari (Ward, ‘92) Kremer Great-grandfather Verner (‘38) Josephs 2021 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine |11
Legacy Families ‘95
‘95
‘42
‘69
‘39
‘96
SCHABEL LEGACY
REEMTS LEGACY
Colton Schabel (2021) Parents Joseph (‘95) & Nicole (Nelson, ‘95) Schabel Grandmother Corliss (Anderson, ‘69) Nelson Great-grandparents Russell (‘42) & Viola (Kleweno, ‘39) Anderson
Georgia Reemts (2021) Mother Sara (Bolton, ‘96) Reemts
‘88
‘93
‘74
‘75
‘70
‘66
‘98
‘43
RASMUSEN LEGACY
SCHABEL LEGACY
Izzabelle Rasmusen (2021) Parents Glen (‘88) & Jennifer (Anderson, ‘93) Rasmusen Grandparents Michael (‘70) & Deborah (Rassat, ‘66) Rasmusen Grandparents Jed (‘74) & Terese (Hammitt, ‘75) Anderson Great-grandfather Stanley (‘43) Anderson
Landon Schabel (2021) Father Steve (‘98) Schabel
‘96
‘96
‘63
‘60
‘82
‘93
WELLER LEGACY Ty Weller (2021) Mother Amy (Harth, ‘93) Weller 12 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexschools.org
KLIMEK LEGACY Nathan Klimek (2021) Parents Michael (‘96) & Alicia (Blank, ‘96) Klimek Grandparents Charles (‘60) & Sylvia (Forster, ‘63) Klimek Step-grandfather Todd (‘82) Powers Great-grandmother Elvira (Mattson, ‘37) Blank
‘37
Legacy Business
Zimny InsuranceProtecting What Matters By Rachel Barduson When Anthony Zimny graduated from college in 2007, he realized that his best life and career choice was right here in the community he had grown up in. In January, 2008, Anthony joined Gilmore, Partington, Zimny Insurance, with his dad, Dan, and from the start, it was a good fit. “Dad was receptive to new ideas in the development of the business in order to grow and expand. At the same time, he instilled in me the lessons he had learned from his mentors and the importance of being a corporate citizen.” Anthony became a partner with his dad in December of 2011. “I would say that my best years were the years I worked with Anthony,” Dan said. Dan retired on January 1, 2017, and he is happy spending time with his grandkids, playing racquetball, golf and completing projects at the family farm in Royalton. As he retraces the steps that led to the agency name change to Zimny Insurance Agency in 2018, Anthony reflects that the agency mission and values continue to be a focus, with a commitment to protecting what matters through communication and planning. He leads a team of 10 driven insurance professionals, including three who have been with the firm for more than 30 years. Anthony is a 2003 Jefferson High School graduate whose parents, Dan and Colleen, moved to Alexandria in 1975 when Colleen accepted a teaching position with Alexandria Public Schools. Dan is a Royalton High School graduate – 1971, and a graduate of Moorhead State University – 1975. Dan began working for Lindquist Equipment in sales and parts until Roger Anderson of First Bank Systems talked to him about a possible new career in the insurance industry. “John Walz was the agency manager at the time and he became my mentor. The lessons I learned from him have stuck with me since,” Dan explained. Starting as an agent in 1977, Dan was promoted to assistant manager in 1980 and then manager. He stayed in that position until 1984. A June 29, 1984 news release in the Lake Region Press states, “Dan Zimny has joined Carlisle Andrews Insurance. Zimny will be involved in the sales and service of all insurance. He and his wife Colleen, have three children, Adam, 5, Brian, 2, and Anthony, two weeks. Carlisle Andrews Insurance Agency is a full service insurance agency that was founded in July, 1969. It is located at 316 North Nokomis in Alexandria.” Dan Zimny and Brian Gilmore went on to purchase the Carlisle Andrews Insurance Agency. Partnerships and name changes continued throughout the years but always stayed true to its original mission, “To protect what matters to our clients, remembering and emulating company values of: Empathy -
Dan Zimny and his son Anthony enjoyed working together for nearly a decade before Dan’s retirement in 2017.
demonstrating kindness, care and compassion for all; Humble – displays a quiet confidence while admitting to mistakes; Relevance – adapting to the current needs of clients, employees and industry; Advocate – knowing and guiding our clients, carriers and team.” Anthony graduated from St. Cloud State in 2007, one of 16 students in the 2007 graduating class of 16,000 with a degree in Insurance/Risk Management. While a student, Anthony was President of the St. Cloud State Insurance Club and was a member of the College of Business Executive Council (COBEC). Zimny Insurance Agency is located at 1103 Broadway Street in a newly remodeled building with space for expansion. In July 2018 Anthony became sole owner and the agency name became Zimny Insurance Agency. Anthony continues to grow on a professional level through obtaining his Accredited Advisor in Insurance (AAI), Certified Professional Insurance Agent (CPIA) and Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designations. He also served on Nationwide’s Regional Agent Advisor Board, United Fire Group’s Minnesota Advisor Board and Secura’s Minnesota Agent Board. With his extensive background in commercial insurance, the majority of Anthony’s book of business service includes construction, manufacturing, government, retail and the service industries. Outside of work Anthony is involved in the Alexandria community as past Alexandria Planning Commission Member, past Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Board Member, past President of Sertoma and past Chair of the Alexandria Area Young Professionals. Anthony is currently an Alexandria Education Foundation Board Member, soon to be Alexandria Community Foundation Board Member and is an active member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Anthony’s legacy is based on personal and professional lessons learned from his parents, Alexandria Public Schools and beyond. As husband to Leann and father to two sons, Isidor “Izzy” (named after Anthony’s grandfather) and Walter, he said, “You hope for the best...and protect what matters.”
2021 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 13
The University of Minnesota’s Board of Regents stand together with President Joan Gabel during her inauguration in 2019. Tom Anderson from Alexandria, third from right, served on board for six years. (Contributed)
Saved by U of M as a child, Anderson happy to serve as regent By Celeste Edenloff, Echo Press
Alumni Profile Tom Anderson ‘76 Connection to the U of M stems back to his childhood A tour of the Lillehei Heart Institute at the University of Minnesota in 2014 left Tom Anderson impressed. “That day when I got home, I thought, ‘I need to get involved.” said Anderson, who just finished serving a six-year term on the University’s Board of Regents. “There are times when the Lord puts you in the right place and that was the right place.” Anderson, who lives in Alexandria with his wife Angie, is a University of Minnesota alumni. From the Class of 1980, Anderson said he was the first graduate of the mortuary science program to serve on the Board of Regents, as well as the first Alexandrian since Knute Nelson in 1881. But that is not his only tie to the University or Dr. C. Walton Lillehei, who the heart institute is named after. In 1963, when Anderson was just 5-years-old, he had a risky open-heart surgery at the U of M to repair his congenital atrial septal defect, which causes reduced oxygen in the body’s blood supply and progressively gets worse. During the six-hour surgery, he was placed on the heart/lung machine for about 30 minutes. “In less time than it takes to watch a sitcom, I got the chance to live 60 more years and more,” he said. “The grace of God has been so good to me.” Anderson said the doctor who performed the surgery was Lillehei, who also happens to be the man who invented openheart surgery. In 1952, Lillehei assisted in performing the first open-heart surgery in the world at the University of Minnesota.
14 | 2021 • www.alexschools.org
After Anderson took that tour of the heart facility in 2014, he said, “We have to continue to make sure kids get the same care I received.”
An Alexandria voice at the U of M Anderson started on the Board of Regents in the spring of 2015. And at the time he put in his application, he didn’t know it was a legislative decision. After 29 personal interviews with legislators and three hearings involving both the House and the Senate, Anderson was chosen for the position. And during those interviews, Anderson said he shared his success story, which is one thing he thought may have helped him win his seat on the board. “I thought I had a good perspective as a child who the university saved ,” he said, noting that he calls himself the accidental regent, as he never thought he’d actually get elected. “I was so grateful, though, for what was done for me.” Looking back now, Anderson said he realizes how big of a role the University of Minnesota has played in his life – from being saved as a child, to being a student and graduating to lastly, having the opportunity to serve on the Board of Regents. “It was an incredible experience,” he said of his six years on the board. “The university administration is an incredibly bright and wonderful group of people who do so much for the state of Minnesota.”
Passion and advocacy for Greater Minnesota During his time as a regent, Anderson made sure to become involved. For two years, he chaired the Finance and Operations Committee, which is where all financial planning for the University comes from. He also chaired for two years the Mission Fulfillment Committee, which is where the academic planning for the university comes from.
For four years, he served as the chair of the Debt Management Committee, which is where the decisions on the use of the university backed credit come from and for all six years, he served on the Litigation Committee, which deals with all legal issues of the university. Anderson noted that chairmanships are all assigned by the Board of Regents chairman and to his knowledge only six of the last 12 Regents he served with ever held a Board of Committee chairmanship. “I was entrusted with three of them,” he said. “I truly enjoyed the work of chairing the major committees as it gave me leadership opportunities and allowed me to help in planning the agendas of what the board would be considering.” A goal of Anderson’s during his six-year term was to get more scholarships for rural students. He said whenever possible, he would invite people from the university to Alexandria so they could get a good sense of who Greater Minnesota people are. Today, he said more than $500,000 annually in additional scholarships are available for rural (non-metro) students through his advocacy for the Land Grand Legacy Scholarship program, which is something he is really proud of. He also said the University of Minnesota serves more Minnesota students than ever before – about 67% are Minnesota students. “The U of M is a great place to be,” he said. “And what it does for Minnesota is big. The U transforms lives every day.” When contacted by the newspaper, University President Joan Gabel had this to say about Anderson’s time on the Board of Regents: “A grateful University is indebted to, and far better for, Tom’s servant leadership and countless contributions. Two of the most meaningful moments of my presidency include highlighting Tom’s personal story during my inaugural address – a powerful example of his impact on the University’s legacy of discovery; and the recent gift of joining Tom and his wife Angie at the Douglas County Fair to experience the passion and advocacy he extends for Alexandria, Greater Minnesota, and the University of Minnesota.” Dave McMillan, who served with Anderson all six years, said Anderson’s honesty, integrity and genuineness rippled through all of his governance decisions and those traits were central to how he approached the issues that came before the board.
As a rural Minnesota business owner and entrepreneur, McMillan said Anderson brought business and financial acumen along with deep experience to the issues they faced. And he said that his perspectives were always infused with a sense of “What would my friends and colleagues in Alexandria expect from their land grant university?” “Tom always thought about the impacts of our decisions on our students,” said McMillan. “He is a special person. His voice and his presence will be missed on the Board and at the University. I wish him and Angie the very best.” Doug Huebsch from Perham will be taking Anderson’s seat on the Board of Regents. “I know Doug from seeing him at university events,” said Anderson. “He is a rural person and I feel confident he’ll represent us well.”
The U of M is a great place to be. And what it does for Minnesota is big. The ‘U’ transforms lives every day. - Tom Anderson
Class of ‘76 yearbook photo
Tom pictured with the U of M football coach, PJ Fleck and his wife, Heather, at the university hotel on the eve of the Gophers victory in the 2020 Outback Bowl in Tampa, Florida. (Contributed)
Tom Anderson, who served on the University of Minnesota’s Board of Regents for six years, listens during a board meeting in 2019. (Contributed)
Tom Anderson of Alexandria, while serving as a member of the University of Minnesota’s Board of Regents, talks with a student at the school. (Contributed)
2021 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 15
Bright Stars, Bright Futures! Alumni Marketplace
For the fifth consecutive year, the Alexandria Area High School One Act Play cast and crew earned the state’s top award, the ‘star’ award for their play, “Machinal”. This is their seventh consecutive advancement to the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) One Act Play Festival.
Ninety-three AAHS DECA students competed in the virtual state conference with around a third of them advancing to the international competition.
Meet ten seniors from the Class of 2021 full of promise and hope – ready to make their mark on the world! Ethan Johnson • Boys Swimming & Diving; All State Honors 200-medley relay; Honored by MN State Coaches Assn for 4.0 GPA during season • DECA President • 1st place State DECA & Shark Tank Competitions • DECA ICDC Finalist; Placed in Top 18 nationally • Knowledge Bowl/Math League • National Honor Society • Attending University of St Thomas – Double major Computer Science & Business Management; Aquinas Scholars Honors Program; Fauth Business Scholarship Recipient
Sophie Anderson Noah Capouch • DECA President • Football • 1st place State DECA & • 3 MSHSL Star Award Shark Tank Competitions Winner in One Act Play • DECA ICDC Finalist; • 2019 Fall Musical Placed in Top 18 nationally • AP Scholar with Honor • Student Council Vice • AP US History Club President • Attending U of M – • National Honor Society Twin Cities; Nursing • SLAM • Graduation Committee • Attending University of St Thomas – Business Administration – Leadership & Management; Aquinas Scholars Honors Program
16 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexschools.org
Aubrey Kosters • Orchestra Superior Rating 8AA Solo Ensemble • Rainbow Strings • 3 MSHSL Star Award Winner in One Act Play • 5 times Fall Musical Participant • Team Captain Soccer • State ExCEL Award Recipient • ‘A’ Club President • National Honor Society • SLAM • VIBE • Attending Gustavus Adolphus College; Education
Jacob Partington • Triple “A” Academics, Arts and Athletics Award Nominee • Three-sport athlete – Soccer/ Hockey/Tennis • Team Captain Soccer/Hockey/ Tennis • All-Conference Tennis; CLC Scholar Athlete • Competed in MSHSL Boys Tennis State Tournament • Spotlight on Scholarship Athlete • Graduation Committee • Attending Gustavus Adolphus College; Undecided
Bright Stars, Bright Futures!
The Girls Cross Country team had a perfect 2020 season, including the Section 8AA championship behind five top-10 individual finishes. Additionally, the team earned the CLC Sportsmanship Award.
The Alexandria Boys Basketball team had a great season, taking the Conference Champion and Section Champion titles and placing second at the MN State Basketball Tournament in Class AAA.
The Alexandria Boys Swimming & Diving team took 2nd place at the 5A Section meet, and added to their legacy with a Class A 2nd place finish at state.
Class of 2021 Motto
You can fail at what you don’t want, so you might as well take a chance on doing what you love - Jim Carrey Emma Reineke • Triple “A” Academics, Arts and Athletics Award Nominee • Three-sport athlete – Soccer/Nordic Ski/Track • Team Captain Soccer/ Nordic Ski • All-Conference Soccer/AllConference Nordic Ski • Orchestra/Rainbow Strings/ Section Leader • Superior Rating Section 8AA Orchestra Contest • National Honor Society • Attending University of MN – Twin Cities; Biochemistr Biochemistry
Jacob Tiegen • 2021 National Merit Scholar Finalist • AP Scholar with Honor • Carolers/Pop Group • Nordic Ski/Tennis • Theatre • Knowledge Bowl • Math League • National Honor Society Secretary • Attending University of Central Florida; Accounting
Myah Kremer • Team Captain Soccer/Basketball/Track • Three-sport athlete – Soccer/Basketball/Track • All-Conference Track/AllConference Honorable Mention Soccer/Basketball • State Finish 3rd place 4x800-meter Relay Team • School Records 4x800-meter Relay and Distance Medley Relay • National Honor Society • SLAM/VIBE • Attending Augustana University for Nursing; Track & Field
Nicholas Nelson • 3 MSHSL Star Award Winner in One Act Play • 3 times Fall Musical Participant; Composed scores for 2 shows • Carolers/Pop Group/ Silhouettes/Barber Shop Quartet • Jazz Band/The Sap Cats • Superior Ratings Solo Ensemble Vocal/Instrumental • National Honor Society President • Student Council – 2 years • Tennis/Mountain Bike/Golf • Attending Georgetown University; Political Economy
Whitly Netland • Team Captain Tennis/Track • All-State Academic Tennis & Track • All-Conference Tennis • All-Conference Honorable Mention Track • ‘A’ Club President • SLAM • VIBE • National Honor Society • Attending South Dakota State University; Pre-Optometry
2021• Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 17
Home Grown Leaders Best friends since childhood, classmates Jason Peterson ‘90 and Kevin Guenther ‘90 are also
Alexandria law enforcement’s second-in-commands By Colin Sokolowski Photography by Jennifer Guenther Photography When Jason Peterson was a fifth-grader, he went on a ride-along with a Douglas County deputy sheriff. Ever since that moment, he knew he was destined for a career in law enforcement. Kevin Guenther’s journey towards the same career took a little longer. A lot longer, actually. Nearly 20 years after his eye-opening ride-along with a friend’s father, Jason found himself becoming the county deputy giving weekly ride-alongs -- to Kevin. And the experience had the same effect on Kevin at 28 years old as it did on Jason at 11 years old. “Everything about it was exciting and cool,” says Kevin, who at the time was an assembly worker at Douglas Machine. “I remember sitting at Jason’s house one night afterwards saying, ‘I’m thinking of going back to school and going into law enforcement.’ Jason said, ‘Good for you.’” Today, the childhood friends and 1990 Jefferson High School (JHS) graduates hold the second-in-command positions for Alexandria area law enforcement agencies. Jason is chief deputy of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and Kevin is captain of the Alexandria Police Department. Friends since a fifth-grade birthday party, Jason and Kevin grew up playing hockey and football together. They’ve remained close friends into adulthood, despite a botched play in a high school football game that could’ve ended some friendships. Playing center, Kevin snapped the ball to Jason who was the punter. Kevin’s errant snap sent the football soaring over Jason’s head, who was sent scrambling towards his endzone to recover it before getting gang-tackled by the opposing team. Jason’s response? “I just said, ‘Thanks Kevin.’” After high school, Jason studied law enforcement at Northland Community and Technical College in Fergus Falls. As a college intern, he joined the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office working water patrol and later became a part-time dispatcher and correctional officer. He eventually was hired as a patrol officer and today has served 28 years with the county in various law enforcement capacities. Although he responds to an occasional call, as chief deputy his primary focus is to run the day-to-day
18 | 2021 Issue • www.alexschools.org
operations of the 92-employee office, overseeing jail employees, the dispatch center, records division, patrol officers and investigations. “The pace of the job can feel like a rollercoaster at times,” says Jason. “You can have no calls for two hours, and then all of a sudden you’re on the scene of a domestic dispute or a car accident. You never know if it’s going to be slow or busy.” Uncertain what he wanted to do after high school, Kevin attended North Dakota State University to study business administration. He eventually left college to work for Douglas Machine. At age 28, with a wife and two children, Kevin took a leap of faith and decided to enroll in the law enforcement program at Alexandria Technical and Community College. For a year, he worked night shifts and took college classes in the day. After landing a part-time position in the county jail, he left Douglas Machine and accepted a series of part-time positions working water patrol, dispatch and road patrol. When a full-time patrol officer position opened in the Alexandria Police Department, he jumped at the opportunity, and he landed the job. Today, 17 years later, he oversees the 28-person department. With so many challenges in law enforcement today, what do they find the most rewarding? “I like making some type of positive impact in somebody’s life, no matter how small it is,” says Kevin. “I also like building relationships and learning other people’s perspectives. I truly want to understand what a member of the public is thinking about the way we do things. I want to understand it from their perspective. We’re not going to make good change unless we communicate well with each other.” Jason agrees. “It’s a tough time, and it can feel overwhelming, but we continue to have a positive attitude and focus,” he says. “In law enforcement, we support each other, and we get a lot of support from this community. We’re lucky, but we also have worked very hard to maintain good relationships. Whenever we get a simple ‘thank you’ from a community member, that’s huge. It’s the best part of the job.”
Home Grown Leaders Until then, Jason and Kevin continue to enjoy a special, life-long friendship that has uniquely overlapped into their careers. “Jason is probably the closest friend who I’d trust with my life,” admits Kevin. “We can be absolutely honest with each other, keeping each other on the straight path. Jason better not think twice about calling me at 3 a.m. if something’s bugging him, ‘cause I’m going to answer the phone. He’s that friend, and he’ll always have a special place in my heart.” The same is true for Jason. “We’ve grown up together and taught each other life lessons,” he says. “We’re still learning together every day. Whenever either one of us has a hard time, we’re always there for each other sharing work-related scenarios to get honest and confidential feedback. We’ve been best friends since forever, but being in the same career brings you even closer. Especially when you’re in law enforcement.” Jason Peterson ‘90
Kevin Guenther ‘90
For Kevin, his colleagues’ mental health and wellness is a chief concern. He says they all deserve to be happy. And when they’re feeling good, the service to the community only improves. “I’m the guy who’s open to talking about wellness, even if that’s not a natural or comfortable part of the typical law enforcement culture,” he says. “I’m concerned about officer suicides. Officers see things and experience trauma that most others never will. I want people to know that it’s okay to not be okay, and therapy or other avenues of wellness can really help.” When he’s done with law enforcement, Kevin is hoping to eventually become a therapist with an emphasis in trauma. “I’ll be in my mid-50s and have more than 25 years of experience in law enforcement. I don’t want to just go fishing for the rest of my days. I still want to help others when I’m done with this career,” he says.
“We’re still learning together every day.”
2021 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 19
Education Foundation News Alumni Marketplace Your Support Impacts Classrooms The Alexandria Education Foundation supports creativity in the classroom through our Teacher Innovation Grants. Since 2009 and through the generosity of our donors, we have awarded nearly $408,000 in grants to teachers in Alexandria Public Schools. This year, AEF awarded $40,772.82 in Teacher Grants to fund thirteen projects that will impact students PreK-12. AEF Teacher Grants help our teachers bring more creativity, innovation, and inspiration into classrooms.
Congratulations to our 2021-22 Teacher Grant Recipients! Expanding Sphero EDU School: Discovery Middle School Teacher: Lukas Gotto Amount Awarded: $3,850
Mobile Magnet Wall School: Miltona Science Magnet Elementary Teacher: Amy Revering Amount Awarded: $3,500
Stem Bins School: Voyager Elementary Teacher: Lynn Strandskov Amount Awarded: $702
Farmbot School: Alexandria Area High School Teacher: Linnay Schweisthal Amount Awarded: $2,150
Outdoor Makerspace School: Woodland Elementary School Teacher: Barb Walswick Amount Awarded: $2,000
Screen Free Zone Campaign School: Early Education Center Teacher: April Larson Amount Awarded: $1,150
Redbird Aviation Flight Simulator School: Alexandria Area High School Teacher: Corey Halstead Amount Awarded: $9,261
Gross Motor Movement School: Voyager Elementary Teachers: Kayla Walsh and Maari Ost Amount Awarded: $1,000
Dash and Dot Robotics School: Lincoln Elementary Teacher: Jillian Burns Amount Awarded: $1,900
Delta Wasp Clay Extruder School: Alexandria Area High School Teacher: Nathan Knick Amount Awarded: $5,638
Orff in the Music Classroom School: Voyager Elementary Teacher: Rhonda Blaser Amount Awarded: $3,259
Traverse Climbing Wall School: Lincoln Elementary Teacher: Patti Hinrichs Amount Awarded: $5,814
Network Cable Termination School: Alexandria Area High School Teacher: Jan Finazzo Amount Awarded: $550
20 | Alexandria Public Schools • www.alexschools.org
Education Foundation News
Save the Dates! June 25, 2021, 7:00 p.m. EdRock - Summer Concert Fundraising Event featuring The Fabulous Armadillos. Tickets: $50 in advance - available at Elden’s Fresh Foods; $52 online at www.alexeducationfoundation.org. General seating, first come basis. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Museum open for concert goers from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Gates to the gardens open at 6:00 p.m. Concert venue: Legacy of the Lakes Gardens, 205 3rd Ave W, Alexandria. In case of inclement weather the event will be held at the Runesone Community Center. SEPTEMBER 24, 2021, 12:00-1:15 p.m. Hall of Fame Luncheon honoring DeWayne Bisek, Class of ‘57; Dr. Daniel Suchy, Class of ‘61; and Mari Leuthner, Class of ‘71. Event to take place at the Broadway Ballroom. SEPTEMBER 24, 2021, Alexandria Homecoming Community Parade, downtown Alexandria, 4:00 p.m.; Pre-game Tailgate Party at AAHS football field following parade; Football Game, Alexandria Cardinals vs. Moorhead, 7:00 p.m. kick-off.
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MARCH 4, 2022 at Broadway Ballroom. EdTalk presenter will be Michael Tisserand, Class of 1982 Schedule of Events: • 6:00-7:00 p.m. - Social Hour • 7:00 p.m. - EdTalk • 7:45 p.m. - EdCelebrate
Hall of Fame inductees announced The AEF Board is looking forward to celebrating these inductees on September 24, 2021: DeWayne Bisek, Class of ‘57; Dr. Daniel Suchy, Class of ‘61; and Mari Leuthner, Class of ‘71. The Alumni Hall of Fame was created in 2007 as a means to honor graduates, or any staff or faculty member who has earned distinction or achievement in their professional field. The Hall of Fame recipients will be inducted at the Hall of Fame luncheon on Friday, September 24, 2021, and they will be invited to be grand marshals during the Homecoming Community Parade later that same day at 4:00 p.m. “It was challenging to not be able to recognize the accomplishments of the 2020 Hall of Fame class last year – but the anticipation of getting to celebrate them in the fall of 2021 will make the experience even better, “ said Pat Kalina, Foundation board chair. “This is an amazing and well-deserving group of honorees, and we look forward to formally inducting them into the Alexandria Education Foundation Hall of Fame.” Full biographical information on the honorees and luncheon event details will be announced in July and available on the Education Foundation’s website at www.alexeducationfoundation.org. If you know of a deserving alum or staff member please let us know! The nomination form may be found on the Education Foundation’s website and nominations are accepted year round.
DeWayne Bisek ‘57
Dr. Daniel Suchy ‘61
Mari Leuthner ‘71
AEF MISSION – Like us by visiting: www.facebook.com/alexedfound We want to keep you informed and hear from you. Visit AlexEducation Foundation.org for upcoming events and to sign up for our newsletter. Become a fan and stay connected with the Alexandria Education Foundation.
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Funding for the AEF Teacher Grant Program is made possible by donor contributions to the Alexandria Education Foundation. Donations can be made online at www.alexeducationfoundation.org, or by mail to AEF, P.O. Box 308, Alexandria, MN 56308. Alexandria Education Foundation Executive Director: Christine Reillly, creilly@alexeducationfoundation.org P.O. Box 308 320-815-5052 Alexandria, MN 56308
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2021 • Alexandria Alumni Magazine | 21
Alumni Marketplace Welcome to the Alumni Marketplace! We greatly appreciate the advertising support of these Alexandria alumni affiliated businesses that help make this publication possible. If you are interested in advertising opportunities in the 2022 issue for your Alexandria alum business, please contact Jill Johnson at jjohnson@alexschools.org.
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HOMECOMING Alexandria Cardinals
2021
September 24
Friday, September 24 • Hall of Fame Luncheon, Broadway Ballroom, 12:00 p.m. honoring DeWayne Bisek, Class of 1957; Dr. Daniel Suchy, Class of 1961; and Mari Leuthner, Class of 1971. • Community Parade, downtown Alexandria, 4:00 p.m. • Pre-game Tailgate party at AAHS football field following parade. • Football Game, Alexandria Cardinals vs. Moorhead, 7:00 p.m. kick-off.
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