Mount Mercy Magazine | Winter 2022

SERVICE IS WHO WE ARE

IN ADDITION TO THE THREE VOWS (POVERTY, CHASTITY, AND OBEDIENCE) ALL CATHOLIC SISTERS TAKE, THE SISTERS OF MERCY TAKE A FOURTH VOW OF SERVICE.

The school that would eventually become Mount Mercy University was founded by women committed to their community. We work hard to maintain the proud tradition of service.

Through service learning and volunteer opportunities, students are challenged to take what they learn in the classroom and apply the critical concerns—earth, immigration, nonviolence, anti-racism, and women— in a wide array of volunteer projects.

This year students and employees have packaged food for Take Away Hunger Cedar Rapids, created rugs for the Riverview Center, made dog and cat toys for the Cedar Valley Humane Society, built houses with Habitat for Humanity, and participated in a variety of other service projects to help the community.

Our students continue the tradition of service after graduation. In this issue you’ll read about Horizons—a Family Service Alliance CEO, Mike Barnhart ’97, whose career has been focused on macro social change.

You’ll also read the story of Darius Nupolu ’20 MSL whose farming on land provided by Feed Iowa First makes African crops accessible to the Cedar Rapids area.

We are proud to see how Mount Mercy’s alumni continue to practice the Sisters of Mercy’s values in their own lives. ||

FEATURES

TABLE of CONTENTS

11PROMOTING COMPASSION

Our nursing students can pursue their dream careers with less financial strain thanks to our new partnerships with Mercy Medical Center and UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s Hospital.

23

GROWING OPPORTUNITIES

DARIUS NUPOLU ’20 MSL

Darius uses his passion for agriculture and land provided by Feed Iowa First to grow African crops for the Cedar Rapids community.

PAINTING OUTSIDE THE LINES

AMANDA HAPPEL ’14

Amanda came to Mount Mercy to pursue a new career path. Little did she know, she’d end up owning her own business and teaching step-by-step painting across Cedar Rapids.

HAPPENINGS ON THE HILL

Learn about this year’s events—including Inauguration, Commencement, and our Women in Leadership series—along with exciting updates for Athletics and Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity.

CLASS NOTES

See what fellow classmates and other members of the Mount Mercy alumni community have accomplished, and celebrate their personal and professional achievements with us.

Mount Mercy Magazine is published by Mount Mercy’s Office of Marketing & Communications.

CONTRIBUTORS

Dixie Albertson | Designer

Sara Calavia ’23 | Graphic Design Intern

Rebecca Cohen | Visual Media Specialist

Hallie Eickhoff | Writer/Messaging Strategist

Caroline Groesbeck ’21, ’23 MBA | Project Coordinator

Courtney Hoffman ’21 | Web Editor

Jamie Jones ’22 MSL | Director of Marketing & Communications

Morgan Ortmann ’17 | Director for Alumni Relations

Kristy Raine | Director of Library Services

Gonçalo Reis ’25 | Photography Intern

Krystal Schatzle | Senior Graphic Designer & Brand Manager

Breanna Stephenson | Designer

Briana Wagner ’24 | Web Intern

OFFICERS OF THE INSTITUTION

Dr. Todd A. Olson | President

Sister Linda Bechen, RSM ’74 | Vice President for Mission & Ministry

Todd Coleman | Vice President for Enrollment & Marketing

Anne Gillespie | Vice President for Business & Finance

Brenda K. Haefner ’96 | Vice President for Development & Alumni Relations

Dr. Nate Klein ’07 | Vice President for Student Success

Dr. Timothy G. Laurent | Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs

Charles A. Rohde | Chair, Board of Trustees

CONTACT INFORMATION

Mount Mercy University

1330 Elmhurst Drive NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 319-363-8213 mtmercy.edu magazine@mtmercy.edu

COMPASSION & GENEROSITY

DEAR MOUNT MERCY ALUMNI AND FRIENDS,

from the Hill!

As we prepare for the holiday season, there is much to share about the ways we are living out our mission day by day. This issue focuses on compassion and generosity, as modeled by our inspiring Mount Mercy alumni.

One way of describing our Catholic and Mercy mission is that it calls us to look beyond ourselves and our own needs—to others around us and to our community. This call may look very different in nursing, in education, in the arts, or in an Iowa field growing African vegetables, but it is a powerful call nonetheless.

The alumni featured in this issue are all shining lights in their own unique way. The compassion we see is enriched by creativity, commitment, and innovation, as our alumni seek to build a better and more humane world. These are the gifts of a Mount Mercy education, and we’re proud to feature a few of those stories here.

We have added talented new colleagues to our faculty and staff this fall, in areas

ranging from business to music to meeting students’ mental health needs. Father Greg Bahl and Kate Tyler are bringing new energy to Campus Ministry, and Angelia Blythe is launching our first-ever women’s lacrosse team over the next year. All these colleagues have a direct role in enriching what we can offer to our students and alumni.

Two new spaces on campus are bringing our goals and values to life. First, the CRST Data Intelligence Lab in Basile Hall offers state-of-the-art technology and opportunities for our growing programs in Computer Science and Data Science. We are very grateful for the impactful gift that made this room possible. Second, our new JEDI (justice, equity, diversity, and inclusivity) space in the Sisters of Mercy University Center represents both a welcome to students of all backgrounds, and a clear sign of how student ownership enriches our campus. Students led the design process and provided the funds to bring this space to life!

There is much more to share—from the ways our business and leadership faculty are sharing their expertise on remote work, to new programs connecting Mount Mercy with local schools and with Catholic education, to the contributions our alumni are making across Iowa and beyond. All of this points back to the compassion and generosity that are hallmarks of our university.

I am grateful to you, our alumni and friends, who are making the most of your education and talents. The handful featured here are wonderful, but there are so many others who deserve our admiration and gratitude.

Thank you all, and I wish you peaceful and blessed holidays ahead!

Sincerely,

DR. TODD A. OLSON President

Greetings

NURSING STUDENT NAMED

MOST OUTSTANDING JOURNALIST

JADA VEASEY ’22 WAS RECOGNIZED AS THE STATE’S MOST OUTSTANDING STUDENT JOURNALIST. THE SURPRISING PART? SHE WASN’T A JOURNALISM MAJOR; SHE WAS A NURSING MAJOR.

In February, Jada was named the Pat Pisarik Journalist of the Year, the highest honor given by the Iowa College Media Association. Jada won this award despite not being a journalism major, an opportunity she doesn’t believe she would have had at other schools.

“If I were at one of those bigger schools, I would have never even been named an editor,” said Jada, “let alone editor-in-chief. But then to actually win a journalism award and not have studied it is just kind of crazy.”

Jada always had a passion for reading and writing, so when she saw posters about the Mount Mercy Times her first year on campus, she was intrigued. She attended an open meeting as one of only three first-year students. She signed up for a few stories at that meeting and never stopped.

Joe Sheller—the faculty advisor of the Times—soon hired Jada as the Times’ work-study student. Joe recognized Jada’s writing and leadership skills. Just a few

years later, he ended up writing Jada’s nomination letter for the Pat Pisarik Journalist of the Year award.

“Jada Veasey is an extraordinary person,” Joe shared in his nomination letter. “She is one of the best writers I’ve ever encountered in two decades of advising a campus newspaper.”

Jada served as opinion editor her sophomore and junior years. After years of writing and dozens of published items, opinion pieces are still her favorite to write. Jada’s favorite piece she has written was a review of Lyz Lenz’s God Land.

“She’s a Cedar Rapidian and a nationally and internationally known writer,” said Jada. “It was such a fun thing for me to review this book by someone who was local because people all over know the book.”

Jada became editor-in-chief her senior year. During her time at the paper, Jada learned to be adaptable.

JADA VEASEY ’22

Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse | University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital Nursing

- JADA VEASEY

’22

“When I was first an editor, we had a team of 12. I had a team of six,” Jada shared.

Having a smaller team means more work and covering subjects you might usually avoid.

“It pushed me out of my comfort zone,” she said.

The Times’ staff received several awards from the ICMA last year, including first place in investigative reporting, staff editorial, front page, and blog, as well as second place in blog and headline writing.

“It doesn’t matter what you study or what level of school you’re in; if you want to be involved in the Times, you can be involved in the Times.”

“It always is exciting to watch us be on the same stage as UNI or bigger schools like that,” said Jada. “Throughout the year, we sort of forget that there are people looking and paying attention.”

While nursing and journalism may seem different at first glance, Jada found that they overlapped in many ways. Leadership skills were extremely helpful in both positions. She found that the therapeutic communication techniques she learned in nursing came in handy when interviewing someone for a story.

Jada was selected as the 2022 Commencement undergraduate student speaker. She also received the Sister Mary Edward McConohy Nursing Award, the Outstanding Journalism Student Award, and the Co-Curricular Service Award.

Jada will pursue her nursing career and look for ways to foster her writing skills. Since graduating, she has worked as a nurse in the NICU department at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

She wants to start a blog and look for opportunities to write for print. Jada also plans to continue reading the Times and keep in touch with editors she met during her time on the paper.

At Mount Mercy, Jada had the opportunity to explore interests that fell outside of her major and career goals. She encourages other students to participate in activities they are interested in, no matter what their major is.

“It doesn’t matter what you study or what level of school you’re in; if you want to be involved in the Times, you can be involved in the Times.” ||

APPLYING EDUCATION to CAREER

FOR NICK PEITZ ’08, ’22 MSL—A PARENT WITH A FULL-TIME JOB AT THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS—MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY’S MASTER OF STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP PROGRAM PRESENTED AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN PRACTICAL LEADERSHIP HE CAN APPLY IN HIS CAREER.

Nick began his career as a Correctional Officer at the Iowa Department of Corrections (IDOC) after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Mount Mercy. He continued to move up in the organization, and he has now been the Associate Warden of Treatment for close to three years.

Nick was always interested in pursuing a master’s degree. When he discovered that Mount Mercy offered online programs, it suddenly felt attainable.

“I really enjoyed my time at Mount Mercy during my undergrad,” Nick shared, “so I was interested in learning more.”

Finding an online program was important to Nick, but he also wanted to continue to stay connected to the people in his program. He felt his professors were able to bring a lot of value to the virtual medium.

“The facilitators have all done such a good job creating a learning environment in an online platform,” he shared. “It’s

NICK PEITZ ’08, ’22 MSL

Associate Warden of Treatment | Iowa Department of Corrections Psychology, Master of Strategic Leadership

amazing to me how much I’ve been able to gain from my peers without being in the same room as them.”

“Another aspect of the program that stands out to me is the balance between being challenging, yet not overwhelming for a busy, working parent,” said Nick.

Nick and his wife, Laura, have three boys ages 8, 10, and 13. That made striking a balance between life and school especially crucial.

“It was important to me that I’d be able to put forth my best efforts in school without sacrificing quality time with my family,” Nick said. “I believe the MSL program has lived up to every expectation that I had—and then some.”

While many pursue advanced degrees to progress their career, Nick’s goal was to contribute to the success of the IDOC. The mission of the IDOC is “Creating Opportunities for Safer Communities,” and Nick felt that Mount Mercy could help him meet this mission more effectively.

Recognizing many strong leaders around him at the IDOC, Nick was inspired to grow his own leadership skills. This, along with the flexible course formats, solidified his decision to join the program.

“It is my hope that I can grow to contribute to the next generation of leaders who take the IDOC into the future,” said Nick. “I truly believe participation in the MSL program is a big contributor to that growth.”

“Through the MSL program, I believe that I have learned skills to help me be the best leader that I can be for the staff at my institution,” said Nick.

Among the many accomplishments in his career and time as a student, Nick was selected as the 2022 Commencement graduate student speaker. He spoke about his experience working at the IDOC and the impact that everyone can have on others’ lives.

“Working in a prison has taught me a lot about people,” Nick shared during his speech. “Not only how to work with difficult people, but also, and probably most importantly, how having a caring heart can have a profound impact on those around you.”

Nick found he was able to learn a lot about himself—including his values, strengths, and areas for growth—during his time at Mount Mercy.

“I can say with a high degree of confidence that I have gained valuable experience through my participation in the MSL program,” Nick said.

He hopes to use this growth to benefit his organization.

“I’m proud to say that I know I have grown as a leader, and subsequently hope to help advance the efforts of the Iowa Department of Corrections.” ||

“Through the MSL program, I believe that I have learned skills to help me be the best leader that I can be for the staff at my institution.”

- NICK PEITZ ’08, ’22 MSL

PROMOTING COMPASSION

MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY HAS SET THE STANDARD FOR NURSING EXCELLENCE FOR OVER 90 YEARS.

This year, we continued our commitment to embed qualified nurses in the community by forming partnerships with two local hospitals—Mercy Medical Center and UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s Hospital.

For recent Mount Mercy nursing graduates Grace Herring ’22 and Becca Francois ’22, being a Mustang runs in the family. Grace followed in her

mother’s, Tina (Furman) Herring ’91, and grandmother’s, Reverend Barbara (Egglestone) Furman ’86, footsteps as a third generation Mustang. Becca’s mother, Diane (Pasker) Francois ’78, and aunt also graduated from Mount Mercy’s nursing program.

A lot has changed in the time since Grace and Becca’s family members attended Mount Mercy. The Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs were started, the Clinical Simulation Laboratory was built, and the Martin-Herold College of Nursing & Health was founded. One thing that hasn’t changed is Mount Mercy’s commitment to nursing excellence.

This year we proudly announced two partnerships with area hospitals that provide our nursing students with financial assistance, professional experience, and a career pathway after graduation.

The Senior Student Promise Program, a partnership with UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s Hospital, is designed to support senior nursing students in completing their education, with the promise of a nursing role after graduation and a sign-on bonus of $5,000 or $10,000.

For Grace and Becca—both of whom participated in the Promise Program— this meant they were able to prioritize

school over worrying about financials or where they would work after graduation.

“The Promise Program set me up for success by allowing me to focus on graduation, studying for boards, and beginning my job,” said Grace. “In a time where there has been so much turnover in medicine, this program gave me hope for the future.”

Promise Program award recipients receive financial support of up to $25,000 to apply toward tuition and fees in their final two semesters.

“It’s an awesome opportunity to help new graduates get on their feet financially,” said Becca.

In 2022, 26 students who graduated in May, August, and December were part of the program. The financial and professional support set each nurse up for a successful start to their career.

“St. Luke’s is offering a huge financial incentive and job security with the commitment of flexible part-time work,” said Grace. “I’m so grateful for the opportunities St. Luke’s is providing for the future of nursing.”

“The Promise Program set me up for success by allowing me to focus on graduation, studying for boards, and beginning my job.”

- GRACE HERRING ’22

Another partnership with Mercy Medical Center—the MercyReady Nursing Education Assistance Program—helps students complete their nursing degrees with little to no debt while gaining valuable, on-the-job experience as they prepare to enter the nursing workforce. For students like Christa Bern ’23, this support makes all the difference.

“Until the program was established, I was working close to full-time to pay tuition while juggling a full class load,” shared Christa. “With MercyReady, I now have more time to focus on studying and preparing for the NCLEX.”

Students in MercyReady receive substantial financial support to reduce costs—including $2,000 education grants, with increasing yearly education assistance of up to $20,000 by their senior year.

Students also receive professional experience as a part-time patient care technician, paramedic, or phlebotomist at Mercy Medical Center while they’re still in school. Students have an opportunity to secure a full-time position with the hospital immediately after graduation.

“Much of my time at Mercy is spent providing direct patient care shoulder-toshoulder with ER nurses. MercyReady will allow me to easily transition to a new graduate nursing role upon graduation and licensure,” said Christa.

At the beginning of the fall semester, 45 students were participating in MercyReady. This financial and professional support makes a big difference in the lives of these future nurses.

“Every nursing student should look into MercyReady to see what it can offer,” encouraged Christa. “There is a massive need for baccalaureate prepared nurses in today’s health care climate. Take full advantage of the opportunities provided through Mount Mercy and your employer.”

Mount Mercy has always had strong relationships with UnityPoint HealthSt. Luke’s Hospital and Mercy Medical Center. Their close proximity to campus gives nursing students a great place to complete clinicals and gain meaningful health care experience.

“We are glad to continue to build on these relationships to support our students and the critical need for qualified nurses,” said Dr. Kim Bro, Dean of the Martin-Herold College of Nursing & Health.

These partnerships also recognize and celebrate the crucial work that our nursing students will be doing upon graduation and licensure.

“It felt great to know my work and dedication were being recognized,” shared Grace. “It felt like the school and the hospital really had my back.” ||

“MercyReady will allow me to easily transition to a new graduate nursing role upon graduation and licensure.”

- CHRISTA BERN ’23

BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Mount Mercy’s comprehensive graduate programs focus on aspects of human relations that lead to mutual success. We guide professionals in relevant practices based on research and expert application in online and on-campus classroom settings. We also provide on-site coaching for organizations.

MTMERCY.EDU/BUSINESS-LEADERSHIP

THE IMPORTANCE of WORKPLACE FLEXIBILITY

MARCIE VAN NOTE Business & Leadership Graduate Programs Director

THE LAST TWO AND A HALF YEARS HAVE PRESENTED MANY CHALLENGES FOR BUSINESS LEADERS, INCLUDING QUESTIONS AROUND REMOTE WORK.

When/how do I bring employees back into the office? Do I let them work remotely? Do I allow them to do hybrid work? These are the questions many business leaders are asking themselves.

With the rise of The Great Resignation, quiet quitting, and mental health concerns —all with the continuing COVID backdrop —organizations have created new working norms. Some have chosen to acknowledge the need for flexibility, while others continue to believe that work is best done in the office.

Questions around remote work are difficult to answer; there is no one-size-fits-all

solution. I am personally more productive when the team is in the office, where we can strategize, collaborate, and create synergy around our work face-to-face. However, I recognize that my beliefs are not universal. I, like many, need to adapt to an ever-changing workplace.

For their part, employees believe they have demonstrated success in this unique and fluid remote environment in terms of performance and work/life balance. Can you blame them for wanting some freedom from the 9-5 scenario? But leaders who embrace this desired flexibility face a new challenge: how do they build an inclusive and resilient culture when some, if not all, of their workforce contributes from a distance?

We’ve seen companies tackle this problem in unique ways. Many workplaces embraced Zoom team-building activities and happy hours at the beginning of the pandemic. Others have implemented virtual workspaces to try to duplicate a traditional office.

If we want to keep top talent, then flexibility is a must. This may mean adjustable working hours, hybrid options, or yes, even full-time remote work. We need to strive for relationships that are built on a genuine understanding of the unique needs of each employee while helping them achieve the best results. ||

DID YOU KNOW WE OFFER A REMOTE & VIRTUAL WORKFORCE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE?

If you work on a remote team—or lead one—this certificate will empower you to consider motivation and collaboration within virtual teams, structure successful employee engagement, and prepare and support leaders for success.

Only 4 courses in 5- and 10-week blocks.

MTMERCY.EDU/REMOTE

LEARNING Life SKILLS

THE SKILLS TYLER KELLEY ’22 LEARNED AS A STUDENT-ATHLETE AT MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY TRANSLATED DIRECTLY TO HIS CAREER AFTER GRADUATION.

The squeak of shoes on the floor. Countless huddles around a whiteboard. Working together to accomplish a common goal.

That was a big part of Tyler’s experience as a student-athlete at Mount Mercy, and it’s a lot like life in the classroom as Tyler begins his career as a Math and Science Teacher at Excelsior Middle School and Assistant Coach for sophomore boys’ basketball at Linn-Mar High School.

“The Mount Mercy education program and the basketball team taught me real life skills that translated directly into the real world,” said Tyler.

Tyler explored which subjects and age ranges he was most interested in teaching during his time on the Hill. He began as an all-science secondary education major. After some time, he discovered a passion for math.

“I really enjoyed my math classes at Mount Mercy,” said Tyler. “That’s when I switched to elementary education with a middle school endorsement in math and science.”

Tyler appreciated the amount of field experience he received as part of his program. These opportunities helped Tyler feel comfortable when the time came for him to start student teaching.

“My student teaching experience was awesome,” Tyler shared.

Tyler’s first placement was in a fourth-grade classroom at Kenwood Leadership Academy.

TYLER KELLEY ’22

Math & Science Teacher | Excelsior Middle School Elementary Education

“The Mount Mercy education program and the basketball team taught me real life skills that translated directly into the real world.”

- TYLER KELLEY ’22

“The placement taught me a lot about patience and being able to control the learning environment for young learners of all different backgrounds,” said Tyler.

During this time, Tyler worked with 20 students for the entire day. Tyler’s second placement showed him a different side of education. He was in a seventh-grade math class at Excelsior Middle School with 120 rotating students.

“I learned a lot of classroom management strategies, differentiation strategies, and learner engagement strategies in this placement,” said Tyler.

The differences in Tyler’s experiences equipped him with a variety of skills he can use in his own teaching career. He works alongside his cooperating teacher at Excelsior Middle School this year.

The relationships Tyler built during his time on the Hill helped him secure a job he was excited about after graduation.

“I made a lot of connections with coaches, players, classmates, and professors during my time at Mount Mercy,” said Tyler. “These connections are crucial to be able to step foot in the real world without feeling totally lost.”

In addition to building strong connections, Tyler’s professors, coaches, and teammates helped him balance being a student and an athlete, helping him excel in both areas.

Tyler started his Mount Mercy basketball career playing JV and practicing varsity. By his junior and senior years, he was starting almost every game for the varsity team.

“My advisor, Lisa Smith, was always willing to help when it came to scheduling my classes around a very tough and long basketball schedule,” said Tyler. “Also, the Mount Mercy basketball staff, including Aaron Jennings, were always willing to work with my class schedule.”

The flexibility and support Tyler received from the Mount Mercy community made it possible for him to pursue his two passions at the same time. Tyler will now be able to use his love of education and basketball in his career every day. ||

HILLARY (KAEFRING) WEHR ’16

Owner & Instructor | Wehr Making Music Music, International Studies

MAKING MUSIC

HILLARY (KAEFRING) WEHR ’16

TOOK HER MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY EDUCATION AND HER LOVE FOR MUSIC AND TEACHING AND TURNED IT INTO A BUSINESS. NOW SHE SPENDS HER DAYS TEACHING ONE-ON-ONE VOICE LESSONS.

One night as Hillary sang, the stars twinkled above her. In front of her there was a sea of cell phones lighting up the historic Brucemore lawn. Hillary was singing in the choir, making music with Orchestra Iowa at Brucemorechestra.

This beautiful night—along with many other opportunities—were made possible by Hillary’s participation in the music department at Mount Mercy.

“I love how involved the music department was, and continues to be, with the community,” shared Hillary. “These experiences definitely shaped my future.”

There were a lot of factors in Hillary’s decision to attend Mount Mercy. She got an

inside view of college life on the Hill thanks to older brother, Adam Kaefring ’12, who attended Mount Mercy. She enjoyed the atmosphere of campus and felt Mount Mercy would fulfill her spiritual needs.

“My faith is really important to me, and as one of Iowa’s few Catholic universities,

I knew I’d be in a place that would allow me to frequent the sacraments with regularity,” said Hillary.

When Hillary stepped on campus as an official Mustang, she wasn’t sure what she would major in, but knew she’d be involved in music.

- HILLARY (KAEFERING) WEHR ’16

“One of the things that I loved about the music department is that I would be highly involved in it without necessarily having to be a music major,” Hillary shared.

Hillary made friends across campus—from nursing majors to business majors—all through her involvement in the music department.

“I’m a firm believer that music is for everyone, and to see that inclusiveness within the department really stood out to me,” said Hillary.

Hillary initially majored in education, but she decided to switch to music after discovering that teaching in a classroom environment didn’t suit her.

She continued to be involved in the music department as well as other activities across campus. Some of her favorite campus activities outside of music included drama and campus ministry.

Hillary’s music education ended up being the foundation of her career post-graduation.

“I was thinking that I would like to have a job in music administration,” Hillary shared, “but after graduating and starting

my own studio, I discerned that I still wanted to teach—only one-on-one.”

Hillary’s business, Wehr Making Music, provides private voice lessons and audition coaching for people in the greater Des Moines area and virtually around the globe. The range of genres she explored at Mount Mercy was especially helpful in her teaching.

“Permitting my voice students to sing what interests them not only keeps them more engaged, but also allows us to work together to help them create sounds that are sustainable,” said Hillary.

Hillary learned a lot about music at Mount Mercy, but she also learned valuable skills for her future as a small business owner.

“Because it’s a liberal arts college and requires classes in different core competencies, I was prepared to take on different aspects of operating a small business such as maintaining a website and bookkeeping,” shared Hillary.

Mount Mercy also prepared Hillary for graduate school, which she began in 2018. She looked for schools that, like Mount Mercy, would allow her to continue her music education in a variety of genres.

She found that at Shenandoah Conservatory where she received her Master of Music in Voice Pedagogy.

“When I was attending graduate school, I was thankful for the other areas of music that I was involved in at Mount Mercy, such as piano lessons and band,” shared Hillary. “Having a background in those instruments has been a fantastic tool to have in my toolbelt.”

Hillary’s time on the Hill impacted many areas of her life. Her involvement in Campus Ministry showed her the joy in giving back. Now, in addition to her private lessons, Hillary serves as Assistant Director for the Central Iowa Catholic Youth Choir. Once a week she works with over 70 students in three different choirs.

No matter how much time passes, Hillary carries her connection to Mount Mercy with her. Whether it’s reminiscing with friends, returning to sing at the convent, or attending mass when in the area, Hillary is never too far from the Hill. ||

“I’m a firm believer that music is for everyone, and to see that inclusiveness within the department really stood out to me.”

FATHER GREG BAHL Chaplain

WELCOMING NEW

The Archdiocese of Dubuque appointed Father Greg Bahl to serve as Mount Mercy’s Chaplain beginning in July 2022. Ordained in 2006, Father Greg most recently served as the Director of the Archdiocesan Office of Worship —a role he continues to fulfill part-time.

As Mount Mercy’s Chaplain, Father Greg prays for the university, celebrates the sacraments, offers Mass and reconciliation, and fills usual priestly roles—to preach, to teach, to sanctify. Father Greg also serves as Chaplain for the Sisters of Mercy at the Sacred Heart Life Care Center.

“It is a gift to be able to serve here,” said Father Greg. “I want to engage in the many community opportunities offered by sports, the arts, and scholarly lectures.”

Father Greg’s favorite hobbies are playing card and board games, camping, and hiking. He enjoys playing guitar, old movies, and old-time radio shows. He also plays “some mean Mario Kart.”

Father Greg encourages anyone who’s looking for someone to talk with or has questions about their faith to stop by his office in the Chapel of Mercy. ||

KATE TYLER Campus Minister

Kate Tyler comes to Mount Mercy with five years of experience working in youth ministry and nine years as a Pastoral Associate within the Catholic church.

As Campus Minister, Kate works to build relationships with students and employees. She also works on liturgy planning, supervises residential peer ministers, and offers opportunities for fellowship.

“I am excited to offer different retreattype opportunities for students and provide more interfaith opportunities,” said Kate.

Kate and her husband, John, have two kids, 10-year-old Teresa and 8-year-old Krystian. Kate enjoys reading, camping, running, hiking, photography, and writing.

Kate asks for continued prayers for spiritual growth on campus. ||

ROGAN STOOPS ’12, ’17 MBA

Assistant Director of Business & Leadership Graduate Programs

Rogan Stoops ’12, ’17 MBA has taught classes at Mount Mercy since 2018. With prior experience as a Program Manager, Senior Quality Auditor, Brand Manager, Team Lead for Professional Development, Adjunct Faculty Member, and more, Rogan brings a wealth of valuable knowledge.

In his new role as Assistant Director of Business & Leadership Graduate Programs, Rogan advises students and hopes to make the process more efficient. He works with students in Managerial Marketing, Systems Thinking and Growth Mindset, Entrepreneurial Endeavors, Methods of Quality Management, and Organizational Ethics.

He and his wife are self-described serial entrepreneurs, working with their kids on business planning and startups. Some of these ventures include Bluebird Farms; the Potato Project, where they make food and contracts available to businesses and individuals who want to help local food insecurity; and Clear Creek Paintball. ||

FACES to MOUNT MERCY

Our employees’ continued commitment to students, alumni, and the university as a whole is what continues to make Mount Mercy great. This year, we have welcomed many new employees who will continue to enhance our impact and create an enriching, holistic student experience.

ANGELIA BLYTHE

Head Coach - Women’s Lacrosse

Angelia Blythe was named Mount Mercy’s first Head Coach for women’s lacrosse. Her experience both playing and coaching lacrosse will help Mount Mercy grow our newest sport.

Angelia was co-founder of the varsity girls’ lacrosse team at Covenant High School in Indianapolis, then played on the Purdue University women’s lacrosse club team that earned a Big Ten championship in 2012. She graduated from the Purdue School of Nursing in 2012, then earned a Master of Health Administration from the University of Cincinnati in 2015.

From 2016-18, Blythe was the varsity girls’ lacrosse coach at Marist High School in Eugene, Oregon. She led Marist to a wildcard playoff appearance in 2016 and was named the South League Coach of the Year in 2018 after guiding Marist to a South League co-championship that season.

While the first season of lacrosse will officially begin in Fall 2023, Angelia is already hard at work recruiting players for the new team. ||

DR.

CAROLINE

GIMARC Director of Counseling Services

Dr. Caroline Gimarc began as the new Director of Counseling Services during the summer. In her role, she helps students one-on-one with concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, trouble in classes, relationship problems, homesickness, and more.

“I’m excited to interact with students and help them make positive changes in their lives that they can carry with them long after they leave Mount Mercy,” said Caroline.

In addition to one-on-one counseling, she provides mental health presentations around campus.

Caroline loves to spend time outside running, camping, kayaking, and biking. She also enjoys crocheting and reading.

Caroline encourages students with questions about counseling to stop by her office—where they might even discover her chocolate drawer. ||

JACK FRANK

Jack Frank is a Cedar Rapids native— Mount Mercy’s very own Steve Stickney was his band director at Linn-Mar High School. Jack brings quality experience in leading high school band programs at small and large schools.

As Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music, Jack directs the University Band, Jazz Band, and Pep Band on campus; teaches Music Theory, Conducting, and Instrumental Methods; and recruits new students from local high schools.

Jack is looking forward to working with students—music and non-music majors—and providing opportunities to enhance the band experience.

Music is a big focus of Jack’s, but he also loves his two-year-old dog, Gigi, and is a die-hard Phoenix Suns fan. ||

Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music

GROWING OPPORTUNITIES

Most mornings you can find Darius and his wife, Wealee, farming on their acre of land on Dows Farm. Their farming practices are organic and done traditionally by hand. You might see them examining crops and picking off harmful insects, or pulling up ever-persistent weeds—one at a time.

The work they do each morning on their farm is meticulous, but their day isn’t even half-way done. At 1:00 PM they put down their tools and leave to get ready for their full-time jobs.

Working full-time while maintaining the farm is difficult, but agriculture is Darius’ passion and he will do anything to pursue it.

Darius grew up in a small village in Liberia where the only source of income was farming. He learned a lot about agriculture through his parents’ and other villagers’ farms, and gained an appreciation for the traditional practice of farming by hand. Taking the next step in following his passion, he attended the University of Liberia and graduated in 2011 with a degree in agriculture.

DARIUS NUPOLU ’20 MSL Master of Strategic Leadership

Darius moved to the United States and chose to live in Iowa so he could pursue agriculture. In addition to wanting to farm, Darius knew he wanted to continue his education.

“I wanted to improve myself while I’m here,” Darius shared. “I didn’t only want to work in this country; I wanted to go to school to learn.”

He was drawn to Mount Mercy’s Master of Strategic Leadership Program.

“The thing that prompted me to pursue leadership is that every sector needs a leader,” said Darius.

Darius was pleased with the classes and community he found at Mount Mercy.

“One thing I saw in Mount Mercy that really encouraged me to stay was the relationships with students and my instructors,” said Darius. “This is a diversified culture; you see people from

DARIUS NUPOLU ’20 MSL USES HIS PASSION, AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE, AND LAND PROVIDED BY FEED IOWA FIRST TO GROW AFRICAN CROPS, MAKING THEM MORE ACCESSIBLE TO THE CEDAR RAPIDS COMMUNITY.

After he started working with Feed Iowa First as a volunteer, Darius learned about its new Equitable Land Access (ELA) program, which connects landless individuals with a background in agriculture to fertile land in the area. Darius applied and received one acre of land in 2021.

Excited to be able to put his agricultural experience to use, Darius already knew what he wanted to grow.

In 2017—when he arrived in Cedar Rapids —he conducted a feasibility study to learn what African people in Cedar Rapids love to buy or eat, and where they purchase these foods.

- DARIUS NUPOLU ’20 MSL

His study helped him discover that many people were driving from Cedar Rapids to Minnesota to buy African crops.

“I told my wife, ‘I think we can venture into this and see what the outcome is. When Feed Iowa First gave us the acre, we thought, ‘Ok, it’s time for us to grow African vegetables.’”

Darius and his wife started growing their crops and providing them to people in and around Cedar Rapids.

all over the world. But when teachers get in class, they don’t care where you are from,” Darius shared. “They treat everybody the same—with respect.”

While talking about the importance of a strategic plan in his Critical Thinking course, an idea started to form. Darius asked himself how he could use his time in the United States to help people in Liberia, and he created a business plan with his answer.

He started Future Farmers of Liberia for the Empowerment of Women. The

organization provides single mothers with low-interest micro loans that allow them to grow their own food to feed their children and sell to others.

The program currently helps 75 single mothers, and its goal is to help 100 women by the end of the year.

Darius was still looking for ways to achieve his dream of having a farm and growing his own crops. That’s when his friend told him about Feed Iowa First, an organization that grows vegetables for food banks.

While they sell many of their vegetables, it is also important to them to share some of the crops at no cost.

“We do not waste the food; we share it with those who need it,” said Darius. “Our aim is to get more farm land, make a farm, and share with people because not everyone is able to make a farm.”

Darius hopes to work and retire within the agricultural field. He wants to continue farming African vegetables–growing and giving back to the Cedar Rapids community. ||

“We do not waste the food; we share it with those who need it.”

the Chicago Cubs,” Katelyn shared.

That dream came closer to reality when Katelyn’s internship with the Iowa Cubs led to a full-time job.

Katelyn was looking for internships when she found the Iowa Cubs Merchandise and Retail Operations Intern position. The role stood out to her because it was in the sports industry and she had experience as a retail sales lead.

“With my merchandise background, I figured this is just the perfect start to my career in the sports industry,” said Katelyn.

Katelyn reached out directly to the Merchandise Director, Lisa Hufford, and was selected to interview.

“We were just bouncing ideas off of each other; we had an immediate connection,” said Katelyn.

She felt that she could be herself during the interview process. In addition to the job, they discussed what a possible move to Des Moines would look like for Katelyn, including where she might choose to live.

Katelyn was hired, and she was able to get hands-on experience. Her responsibilities included helping design merchandise, collaborating with other interns, managing inventory, mailing out online orders, and communicating with customers. Katelyn shadowed other jobs at the stadium as well.

FEATURE

“Anne King (Business Advisor and Outreach Coordinator) was so helpful during my internship,” Katelyn shared. “She encouraged me to reach out to my superiors and supervisors to see if I could get different experiences at my internship—so I had more experiences under my belt.”

When her internship ended, Katelyn kept in touch with Lisa. She regularly checked for open positions with the Iowa Cubs. When a Merchandise Manager position opened up, she immediately applied. Katelyn believes her internship—along with her continued connection with Lisa—helped her land the position.

“That’s another thing I learned from Mount Mercy,” Katelyn shared, “is keeping in touch with your connections and networking.”

“Not only did we go out in the community and serve and volunteer our time, but we also gained a lot of knowledge about ourselves and who we are as leaders—within the community, workplaces, and our lives, really,” said Katelyn.

After taking the service leadership class, Katelyn knew she wanted to prioritize good leadership in her future career. She is excited to be able to grow even more as a manager and a leader in her new position.

Katelyn’s internship with the Iowa Cubs gave her the opportunity to form lifelong connections and get to know the culture of the organization. She recognizes the role her internship played in getting her new position, and she encourages other students to take advantage of similar opportunities.

“Internships really do pay off when looking for future careers,” said Katelyn. “Especially if you get an internship in an industry you want to work at in the future.” ||

Those connections paid off. Katelyn started her role as Merchandise Manager for the Iowa Cubs in March.

This role encompasses many of the tasks Katelyn did during her internship, along with working on social media, the online store, and leading four interns.

During her time at Mount Mercy, Katelyn took a service leadership class with Dr. Nate Klein ’07, Vice President for Student Success, which helped her grow as a leader.

“Internships really do pay off when looking for future careers.”

- KATELYN KRAL ’22

“I have always had a dream of working in the front office of

WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR THE GENEROSITY OF ALUMNI, DONORS, AND FRIENDS OF THE UNIVERSITY DURING THE 2021-22 FISCAL YEAR.

ENDOWMENT $1,023,925

UNRESTRICTED $806,036

RESTRICTED $766,320

CAPITAL $12,921

IN KIND $8,737

MOUNT MERCY ALUMNI, DONORS, AND FRIENDS:

While the Christmas season offers a tremendous amount of excitement and joy, it is also a time of year to give back and reflect on the many things to be thankful for.

One walk across campus will show you countless examples of the impact that gifts make here at Mount Mercy. Whether you are walking into Basile Hall, taking classes in the new Wente Education Center, training at the Rinderknecht Athletic Center, or attending Mass in the Chapel of Mercy, all of these spaces have been made possible by the generosity of our alumni and friends.

I am thankful for you—our alumni, donors, and campus community—and would like to highlight some of Mount Mercy’s recent successes:

» Welcomed 224 first-year students to campus this fall, an increase over last academic year

» Awarded over $1 million in donor-funded scholarships

» Celebrated the 2022 Alumni Award recipients at Homecoming & Alumni Weekend this fall

» Celebrated the 50th anniversary of Mount Mercy women’s basketball and congratulated the 1980-81 women’s basketball team on their induction—the first team to ever be inducted into the Mount Mercy Athletic Hall of Fame

» Opened the CRST Data Intelligence Lab thanks to a gift from Dyan and John Smith

» Added women’s lacrosse, starting in the 2023-24 academic year

» Renovated areas in the Martin-Herold College of Nursing & Health to increase academic and community spaces

» Began updates on Francis J. Pruss Auditorium on the third floor of the Donnelly Center

The successes we have at Mount Mercy are because of the loyalty of our entire community. Thank you, in advance, for your generous support. May God bless you and your loved ones with a wonderful Christmas season and happy new year.

BRENDA HAEFNER ’96, CFRE Vice President for Development & Alumni Relations

NEW PARTNERSHIP for EDUCATORS

ADDRESSES VITAL NEED

-

Current paraeducators at Linn-Mar are able to earn their bachelor’s degree and become licensed teachers through the State of Iowa’s Teacher and Paraeducator Registered Apprenticeship Pilot Grant Program.

The program’s first cohort began classes taught by Mount Mercy professors at Linn-Mar High School in the fall.

“The on-site classes were a big sell for me,” shared Andrea Wheatley ’24, a General

Education Assistant at Novak Elementary. “I’m a mom of four who’s always running my kids around for sports and keeping them on their schedules, so this is very convenient.”

This partnership gives paraeducators an opportunity to advance their educational career while maintaining their work schedule.

“I’m excited about learning new things and being able to do a teaching program

and work at the same time,” said Christina Hunt ’24, an Early Childhood Paraprofessional at Echo Hill Elementary.

Mount Mercy has a long tradition of putting qualified educators into the workforce. This partnership with Linn-Mar continues to grow our community’s teacher and paraeducator pipeline, ensuring that students have world-class education for the future. ||

“I’m limited as an associate and wanted to do more for kids in the classroom. As a teacher, I have more opportunities to be invested in the kids.”

ANDREA WHEATLEY ’24

MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY AND LINN-MAR COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT ARE WORKING TOGETHER TO PUT MORE TEACHERS AND PARAEDUCATORS INTO THE COMMUNITY.

PAINTING Outside THE LINES

AMANDA HAPPEL ’14 CAME TO MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY WITH A CLEAR FIVE-YEAR PLAN IN THE MARKETING FIELD. LITTLE DID SHE KNOW IN A FEW SHORT YEARS, SHE WOULD START CORK N CANVAS IOWA AND BEGIN SPENDING HER EVENINGS TEACHING PEOPLE HOW TO PAINT.

“With your big paintbrush, push down and then pull up and away,” Amanda tells her class. Each student follows Amanda’s instructions as they add whiskers to their silhouette cats. They pick up their paint brushes and mimic her quick strokes. By the end of the night, everyone at The Lucky Cat Comedy and Events has completed their own take on a retro-style cat on a bold teal background.

AMANDA HAPPEL ’14

Owner | Cork N Canvas Iowa Marketing

The class has a range of students. Some try to copy Amanda’s style exactly, while others feel more comfortable adding their own spin on the painting. Amanda’s step-by-step instructional style makes paintings that once seemed complex suddenly within reach—no previous painting skills necessary.

Amanda chose to continue her education at Mount Mercy because she knew she was interested in changing career paths. When she started her classes, she didn’t picture herself teaching painting in venues across Cedar Rapids, but she doesn’t regret the path she’s taken.

“It was so far from what I wanted to do with my life,” said Amanda, “but it really pulled a lot of my passions together.”

Amanda had an associate’s degree in computer science and was working at Collins Aerospace as an Administrative Assistant when she started to consider returning to school for her bachelor’s degree. Amanda discovered her passion for marketing when working with volunteer groups.

“I worked with a volunteer group at the time called Access Iowa,” said Amanda. “I helped them with their marketing for a little bit and was hit with the bug.”

Amanda dreamed of working at a marketing agency or media company. With this goal to fuel her, she poured all her focus and energy into getting her degree.

While she was in school, Amanda started working for the CreARTivity Art Studio. The studio allowed her flexibility while she finished up her classes and also gave her an opportunity to use her new marketing skills. Amanda was occasionally asked to fill in for the Cork N Canvas classes when the instructor wasn’t available. Slowly, Amanda began teaching more consistently.

When CreARTivity closed, the owners encouraged Amanda to take the Cork N Canvas materials and continue teaching classes on her own. Amanda followed their advice and started Cork N Canvas Iowa. She started by teaching just a few classes a month while also working at her dream internship at a company owned by The Gazette.

“I actually had a great job scheduled. I had a paid internship and was really excited about it, but the Cork N Canvas opportunity just kind of exploded into my lap,” shared Amanda.

“About six months into it, I thought I could really expand this if I just gave myself an opportunity to do it,” said Amanda. “I mean, I had the skills, knowledge, drive, and passion. I thought, ‘Let’s just try it out.’”

Eight years later, Amanda is far from her original five-year plan, but she couldn’t be happier. Though Amanda didn’t take the traditional marketing agency role she imagined, she uses her marketing degree almost every day. While strangers might picture Amanda’s days in the studio painting, she spends a majority of her time coming up with ways to market her company.

“I do marketing every day,” said Amanda. “Probably 60% of my day is marketing.”

And marketing isn’t the only skill Amanda gained during her time on the Hill.

“Public speaking was a huge aspect of my classes that really lent itself to my job,” Amanda shared. “Especially for me, being up in front of a crowd every day talking about my painting and how to do the step-by-step instructions.”

Amanda found a lot of practical use in the classes she took at Mount Mercy. In addition to public speaking, she learned how to market herself and her company. Her accounting class even helped her learn how to keep her own books.

“I would have to say that I use what I learned in almost every single one of my Mount Mercy classes daily,” said Amanda.

Overall, continuing her education at Mount Mercy gave Amanda the opportunity to start an entirely new career she couldn’t have even pictured for herself.

“If I didn’t have my degree, I might not be where I am today at all,” shared Amanda. After consideration she added, “I know I definitely wouldn’t be.” ||

“I actually had a great job scheduled. I had a paid internship and was really excited about it, but the Cork N Canvas opportunity just kind of exploded into my lap.”

- AMANDA HAPPEL ’14

BUILDING COMMUNITY

MIKE BARNHART ’97 CEO |

Social Work

In 2008, Mike found himself in a skywalk trying to get into the Neighborhood Transportation Services office in downtown Cedar Rapids. Flood waters were continuing to rise beneath him, but Mike—the Executive Director of NTS— knew he wanted to save critical information before the torrent washed it away.

Unfortunately, the key to the gate within the skywalk was too low to access, so he had to get creative.

“We climbed over the gate; we had to bust up this plexiglass,” said Mike. “We’re wading through this water, and I took all my computers upstairs.”

Mike was able to save servers with rider information. This allowed NTS to provide transportation just a few days after the flood so people could continue to go to work.

Throughout his career, Mike has had to make important decisions quickly. Mike didn’t always picture himself as a leader, but his college career allowed him to discover his passion and build confidence.

“I was 34 when I started college,” Mike shared. “In my early life I had drug problems, I never graduated high school, and when I started going back to school, I had no clue what I wanted to do.”

Mike started taking classes at Kirkwood and was exploring career possibilities within the helping professions. He considered working as a Substance Abuse Counselor, but he wasn’t sure if one-on-one work was the right path.

“It seemed like social work was a better fit for me,” Mike shared. “Especially when I started learning about macro and micro practice. Macro practice was a place for me.”

When Mike transferred to Mount Mercy, he began in the social work program and got hands-on experience that confirmed his choice. His field placement at the MAHP Housing Agency helped him see the effects of macro social work in real time.

“I worked with these kids from Metro High School,” said Mike. “I felt like I was one of those Metro kids when I was that age, and I really liked that.”

As Mike learned more about the possibilities of social work, he embraced the program even more. He found a lot of encouragement from his professors John Rogers, Joni Howland, and Rick Zingher.

Mike experienced a lot of life changes at Mount Mercy, including the death of his mother and the birth of his daughter.

-

Throughout these major life occurrences, Mike always felt the support of his professors.

With the motivation of mentors, hard work, and dedication, Mike graduated from Mount Mercy.

“I never thought I’d graduate from college,” said Mike. “I didn’t think that was in the cards for me.”

After graduation, Mike began his career in the human services industry and started as the Executive Director of NTS in 2000.

He was honored with Mount Mercy’s Alumni Merit Award in 2004, which is given to recent alumni who show promise of significant professional growth and achievement.

In 2015, NTS merged with Horizons, and Mike became a Vice President. In 2018, he took over as CEO.

“I think back fondly on my days of walking through the tunnels. Going to Mount Mercy was a wonderful learning experience, and I can’t think of another place I would have rather gone to school.”

MIKE BARNHART ’97

Horizons

MIKE BARNHART ’97 NEVER PICTURED HIMSELF AS A COLLEGE GRADUATE. DESPITE THIS, MIKE GRADUATED FROM MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY, HAS THRIVED DURING A LONG CAREER WITH NON-PROFIT AGENCIES, AND SERVES AS THE CEO OF HORIZONS–A FAMILY SERVICE ALLIANCE.

Offering a variety of human services across Eastern Iowa—including transportation, financial wellness, and Meals on Wheels— Horizons has provided opportunities to improve the lives of individuals and families for 60 years.

The flood was not the only time in Mike’s career that he had to adapt quickly. When the COVID pandemic started, Horizons had to consider what shifts they could make to Meals on Wheels to keep everyone as safe as possible while still providing much-needed meals.

Just a few months later the derecho hit, and a lot of Cedar Rapids families found themselves without power. Meals on

Wheels again stepped in, delivering peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, canned goods, and other non-perishable foods just two days later.

“The thing I’m probably most proud of is the team that’s assembled here at Horizons,” Mike shared. “Human services and social work are female-dominated industries, and I’m especially proud of the strong, smart, independent women that work with me.”

Mike feels that his education set him up for success within his career. He works with a lot of fellow alumni and enjoys speaking with others about their Mount Mercy experience.

“I value my education from Mount Mercy,” Mike shares. “It’s always an instant connection when I see somebody else who has graduated from Mount Mercy.”

“I think back fondly on my days of walking through the tunnels,” he said. “Going to Mount Mercy was a wonderful learning experience, and I can’t think of another place I would have rather gone to school. ||

ADVOCACY for the TEACHING PROFESSION

TEACHERS OFTEN ADVOCATE FOR THEIR STUDENTS TO ENSURE THEY GET THE EDUCATION THEY DESERVE.

As educators face increasing challenges, it’s time for us to return the favor. Our advocacy can start by becoming familiar with three challenges in the education field: recruitment, retention, and the need for ongoing professional development.

A recent poll conducted by Phi Delta Kappa revealed that fewer high school graduates are choosing the teaching profession.

DR. DAWN BEHAN Director of Graduate Education Program

Currently, Iowa has a severe teacher shortage. In many ways, the outlook for the teaching profession sounds dismal. Some schools could not open for the 2022-23 academic year due to too few teachers holding a teaching license. According to KCRG and KWWL, some school districts offered sign-on bonuses of $5,000 and retirement packages of $50,000 to gain qualified teachers.

It also found that the majority of parents reported they did “not want their children to become teachers,” stating the following reasons: “poor pay and benefits, the demands and stress of the job, and the lack of respect for the profession.”

Unfortunately, even if school districts manage to hire new teachers, retaining those teachers is another challenge. Across the state, schools have reported increases in the number of retirements— particularly early retirements—and teachers leaving the profession.

The average teaching salary in Iowa in August 2022 was $58,110, but new teachers averaged only $36,258 according to a report by salary.com. It’s hard to retain qualified teachers when they could make significantly more by leaving the profession.

Teachers also face an ever-changing landscape, which introduces the need for consistent professional development. Over the past decade, enrollment in Iowa schools has declined slightly, yet the number of diverse students has increased

overall, according to the Iowa Department of Education.

In their 2021 data, minority students made up 26.1% of students, and English language learners made up 6.3% of students. 41.2% of students received free or reduced lunch. Students with disabilities served in special education increased to 13.26%.

This increase in diverse students and students with special needs underlines the importance of teachers receiving continuing

education so they can teach their classroom to the best of their ability. Teachers may receive financial aid to return to college, but government programs may not cover professional development, nor will most school districts pay for teachers to receive additional coursework.

To support teaching as a profession, teachers and administrators in K-12 schools, and faculty in teacher preparation programs, we must advocate for teachers and teaching. Our advocacy begins with awareness. ||

INAUGURATION of DR. TODD A. OLSON

DR. TODD A. OLSON WAS INSTALLED AS THE PRESIDENT OF MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY ON APRIL 29, 2022.

President Olson brings a wealth of experience with a 35-year career in higher education, most recently serving as the Vice President for Student Affairs at Georgetown University.

The schedule of events included a faculty panel, Mass, the installation ceremony, and a reception.

The inauguration theme was Enduring Tradition. Engaging Excellence. This was inspired by the forward mindset of our founders, the endurance of their bold mission, and the Spirit of Mercy that continues to guide us.

With students, employees, and Cedar Rapids city leaders in attendance, Dr. Olson shared his vision for the future of Mount Mercy while paying homage to our past.

The time was one of celebration and commemoration, and signaled an exciting path forward for Mount Mercy in the years ahead. ||

- DR. TODD A. OLSON

“I see tremendous strength and promise at Mount Mercy. Our mission calls us to a sense of reverence and wonder, a spirit of compassion, and a commitment to educate in the richest possible way.”

CONGRATULATIONS

In total, 368 undergraduate students and 149 graduate students received their degrees.

The occasion was marked by student speakers Nick Peitz ’08, ’22 MSL and Jada Veasey ’22, and several graduates were honored throughout the weekend and at the ceremony, including Emma Lantz ’22, who won the Sister Catherine McAuley Award; Marco Delgado ’22,

who won the Sister Frances Warde Award; and Amber Grimm ’17, ’22 MAEd, who won the Sister Mary Lou Podzimek Award.

Commencement marks an important passage in every Mustang’s academic and personal journey—from student to graduate and now a lifelong Mount Mercy alum. We welcome this new class of graduates to our alumni community! ||

“Mount Mercy has a strong reputation for developing successful studentathletes, and I look forward to adding to that through the new lacrosse program.”

- ANGELIA BLYTHE

LEARN MORE ABOUT ANGELIA ON

“Women’s lacrosse is one of the fastest growing collegiate sports in the country and was recently added as an officially sponsored sport in the Heart of America Athletic Conference,” said Dr. Nate Klein ’07, Vice President for Student Success. “We are excited to launch this program and be a partner to help grow interest in lacrosse throughout the community.”

Angelia Blythe is the new Head Coach for women’s lacrosse. She brings a wealth of sports knowledge, playing and coaching experience, and professionalism that will help the development of the program.

“I’m very grateful to be given the opportunity to join the Mount Mercy athletic staff,” said Angelia. “Lacrosse

is one of the fastest-growing sports in the Midwest, and I’m excited to share my experience and passion for the sport. Mount Mercy has a strong reputation for developing successful student-athletes, and I look forward to adding to that through the new lacrosse program.” ||

INSPIRING WOMEN

MARCIE

VAN NOTE, BUSINESS

& LEADERSHIP GRADUATE PROGRAMS

DIRECTOR,

SPARKED THE IDEA OF BUILDING A PROGRAM FOR WOMEN TO BUILD EACH OTHER UP IN THE BUSINESS SECTOR.

With support from President Todd Olson, Dr. Tim Laurent, and the other graduate program directors, the Women in Leadership program officially launched in March 2022, turning Marcie’s dreams into reality.

This program features women leaders sharing their experiences in education, nursing, business, and leadership as monthly speaker-led discussion events.

Marcie says, “It really is about letting women know that they are not alone, and that we have this great big community that can support each other and lift each other up ... I think this can be powerful.”

The program has hosted a variety of women-led events, including a self-care panel with eight mental health care providers; a networking event led by the late Noreen Bush, former Superintendent of the Cedar Rapids Community School District; a discussion with Liz Mathis, non-profit leader and State Senator; and more.

Now that Marcie’s original dream has surpassed her expectations, she’s hoping to do even more. Marcie wishes to have more undergraduate attendees at the events to give them more opportunities to network with professionals in the community. ||

- MARCIE VAN NOTE

“The committee’s hope is that it provides an opportunity for women to hear leaders in different leadership roles, how they got to where they are, and what obstacles they have overcome.”

NEW JEDI ROOM on Campus

(JUSTICE,

DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSIVITY) ROOM

Located on the first floor of the Sisters of Mercy University Center, the room includes a community wall, work stations, and a panel commemorating the Sister Cora Marie Billings Diversity Endowment.

The endowment—a student-led project funded by Mount Mercy’s Student

Government Association—will support various programs on campus that foster community involvement and unity.

Underscoring our commitment to social justice and inclusivity, the JEDI Room is intended to be a gathering spot for students, especially from underrepresented populations. ||

THE NEW JEDI

EQUITY,

WAS COMPLETED JUST IN TIME FOR STUDENTS RETURNING TO CAMPUS THIS PAST AUGUST.

CRST GIFT BENEFITS Computer and Data Science Programs

CRST Owner and Board Member Dyan Smith is a member of Mount Mercy’s Board of Trustees.

“CRST’s vision and commitment to Mount Mercy will impact our students—and the greater Cedar Rapids community—for decades to come,” said President Todd Olson. “We are incredibly grateful for their generosity.”

The lab is located on the top floor of Mount Mercy’s Basile Hall and features a virtual reality area, robotics equipment, 3D printers, collaboration spaces, and other new technology.

“CRST is committed to strengthening the technology workforce in the Cedar Rapids area,” said Jerry Kilgore, Chief Information Officer at CRST. “We’re proud to support Mount Mercy in their effort to attract, educate, and graduate students who are prepared and ready to tackle the complex problems of the modern business environment. We believe they can be an important source of technological talent in our community.”

Beginning in Fall 2023, CRST will also offer paid internships for Mount Mercy computer science and data science students, which will supplement renewable scholarships.

Rinderknecht Associates and Solum Lang Architects partnered with Mount Mercy to renovate the lab, and the grand opening took place on October 20. ||

HAPPENINGS ON THE HILL

NEW CONFERENCE Unites CATHOLIC EDUCATORS

IN AUGUST, MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY GATHERED CATHOLIC SCHOOLS FROM ACROSS THE ARCHDIOCESE TOGETHER FOR A DAY OF LEARNING, COLLABORATION, AND REFLECTION.

Over 400 Catholic K-12 educators attended the first Forward in Faith conference at Mount Mercy. The conference was started to help form connections between Catholic schools and provide professional development opportunities.

Forward in Faith featured 41 breakout sessions presented by Catholic school teachers and administrators. Topics included Virtue in the Classroom, Spreading Joy Through Humor, and Positive Classroom Management, among many others.

LeAnn Thieman, author of 15 Chicken Soup for the Soul books, served as the keynote speaker for the event. In her speech, LeAnn shared her experience helping rescue babies during the Vietnam Orphan Airlift in 1975. She also shared ways that educators can care for themselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually. ||

HOMECOMING & ALUMNI WEEKEND

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO JOINED US ON CAMPUS FOR HOMECOMING & ALUMNI WEEKEND 2022.

We had a wonderful time celebrating alumni class reunions and our foundresses, the Sisters of Mercy; inducting the first-ever team into the Mount Mercy Athletic Hall of Fame; congratulating the 2022 Alumni Award recipients; and best of all, making new memories and new friends on the Hill! ||

THANK YOU MOUNT MERCY ALUMNI BOARD

The Mount Mercy Alumni Board is comprised of 28 standout Mustangs located within the Cedar Rapids community and beyond. The Alumni Board is organized to support strategic initiatives set forth by the university and help promote the welfare and mission of Mount Mercy University.

Alumni Board members can serve up to two consecutive three-year terms and meet quarterly (in-person and virtually) to assist with programming, student recruitment and support, fundraising, and community outreach efforts. ||

Nick Timm ’14

President

Lisa (Lindmeier) Roughley ’90

Vice President

April Hageman ’08

Secretary

Kathy (Ebel) Harriott ’87

Past President

Aminah Baloch ’17

Patty Barnes ’79, ’11 MBA

Tessa Friason ’16

Jennifer Hamdorf ’20 MBA

Kelsey Hansen ’11

Karen (Woodhouse) Jahlas ’84

Michael Kaduce ’09

Goar Kempf-Heitlinger ’17

Sara Kendall ’90

Marcel Kielkucki ’02

Jennifer (Engelhardt) Kreeb ’98

Kellie Lala ’89

Michael Markham ’16

Ron Maxa Jr. ’06, ’11 MBA

John McDermott ’05

Catherine (Metz) O’Connell ’00

Amber (Vranek) O’Connor ’97, ’21 MSL

Blake Seda ’19

Andy Small ’79

Hon. Kimberly J. Rodgers Smith ’00

Shelby Sorensen ’18

Tracy Sorensen ’20

Lindsey (Cooper) Starrett ’06

Sarah (Jencks) Watson ’08

EMERITUS ALUMNI BOARD MEMBERS

Mary Daehn ’86

Peg (Bruns) Detweiler ’92

Tony Dickinson ’02

Tricia Hoffman-Simanek ’98

Tammy (Clemenson) Koolbeck ’86

Dr. Susan O’Conner-Von ’76

Emeritus Alumni Board members are nominated and voted upon by current members of the Alumni Board for above and beyond service during their active board terms.

Interested in getting connected with the Alumni Board? Email alumni@mtmercy.edu

BEING A MUSTANG IS A

The Legacy Award is a $1,000 award open to first-year and transfer students who have a parent, grandparent, or sibling who has graduated from or is currently enrolled at Mount Mercy.

To qualify, ask your family member to note that they have a relative who is an alum or current student when filling out their application. The student must enroll with full-time status.

AFFAIR

The award is renewable annually for up to four years.

Encourage any prospective Mustangs to visit campus. We offer both individual visits and group visits that are tailored to each student. They can meet with faculty in their area of interest, their admission counselor, current students, athletic coaches, music directors, and financial aid advisors. ||

ALL ACADEMY REUNION LUNCHEON WEDNESDAY,

JULY 20, 2022

TOP ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT:

President Todd Olson

Liz (Hennessey) Valliere AC ’52, JC ’54

Sister Sheila Geraghty AC ’57, ’62

Rita (Crawford) Hutchins AC ’53, JC ’55, ’68

Sister Mary Lou Podzimek AC ’52, ’66

BOTTOM ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT:

Joan (Holmes) Phillips AC ’48

Joan (Lynch) Arthurs-Chadima AC ’51, JC ’53

Mary (Vogl) Steele AC ’52

Elda (Maas) Joyner AC ’53

Sister Rose Mary Kucera AC ’53, ’68

CLASS NOTES

1980 S 1990 S

Joe Hartlaub ’82 is a mentor/coach for new school administrators at Milwaukee Public Schools in Milwaukee.

Melissa (Bahm) Lawrence ’82 is an Executive Producer of her third feature film, My Heart Remembers

Dale Todd ’83 was named a 2022 Corridor’s 250 Most Influential Executives by the Corridor Business Journal

LeAnn (First) Ridgeway ’86 received the 2022 Distinguished Service Award from Mount Mercy University.

Carrie Schulte ’87 is a Claims Examiner at National Life Group.

Mark Hennessey ’88 is a Senior Corporate Recruiter at First Onsite in Colorado.

Lisa (Fines) Caraway ’91 is the Assistant Vice President of Claims Department at UFG Insurance in Cedar Rapids.

Kim Fensterman ’91 received her Master of Education with an emphasis in Higher Education from Upper Iowa University on December 31, 2021.

Sara (Kurt) Heisdorffer ’93 is the Director of Clinical Simulation and Assistant Professor of Nursing at Mount Mercy University.

Dawn (McNew) Batie ’94 was promoted to Senior Care Provider at Right at Home.

Julie (Brown) Johnson ’96 was named a 2022 Corridor’s 250 Most Influential Executives by the Corridor Business Journal.

Stacie (Black) Wallingford ’97 was promoted to Officer at Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust.

Danielle Arnold ’99 is the Director of Affordable Housing Network in Cedar Rapids.

Mandy (Sheppard) Blattner ’99 is the Lead Sexual Assault Advocate at Riverview Center in Cedar Rapids.

Coreen (Davis) Janko ’99 is an ABO Certified Optician with Discover Vision Centers in Kansas City.

A

Ryan Bosch ’01 received the 2022 Professional Achievement Award from Mount Mercy University.

Nathan Coleson ’01 was promoted to Officer at Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust.

Chad Greenlee ’02 was named a 2022 Corridor’s 250 Most Influential Executives by the Corridor Business Journal.

Kristy Rose ’02 has retired from the Army after 23 years of service.

Melissa (Bahls) Trumpold ’02 is an Underwriting Support Manager at UFG Insurance in Cedar Rapids.

Leta (Kacer) Fett ’03 is the Systems Operator and Fire Brigade at Southern Nuclear Plant Hatch in Baxley, Georgia.

Brooke (Murphy) Fitzgerald ’03 was named a 2022 Corridor’s 250 Most Influential Executives by the Corridor Business Journal

Angela (Miller) Dockter ’05, ’11 MBA is the Manager of Governance Risk & Compliance at Alliant Energy.

Dr. Nicole (Peterson) Smith ’05 was elected as Chief of Medical Staff for Osceola Medical Center in Osceola, Wisconsin.

Susan (Stratton) Wolrab ’05 and daughter, Michele Wolrab ’17, started The Wolrab Group brokered by eXp Realty.

Catherine (Lyons) Higgins ’06 and Greg welcomed twin boys, Colin Michael and Patrick Edward, on March 4, 2022.

Melissa (Brack) Torner ’06 was promoted to Vice President, International Banking at Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust.

Dr. Traci (Vine) Ridgway ’07, ’20 MSN, ’21 DNP is a Nurse Practitioner on the Medical Oncology Team at the Hall-Perrine Cancer Center in Cedar Rapids.

Kimberly (Smith) Downs ’08 is the Deputy City Manager for the City of Marion. Kim was also named a 2022 Corridor’s 250 Most Influential Executives by the Corridor Business Journal.

Clare (Armstrong) Duffy ’08 co-received the 2022 Iowa Broadcaster of the Year Award.

Saleena (Taylor) McNorton ’08 is a Home and Distance Education Coordinator in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and a volunteer with the Grace International School in Thailand.

Andrea (Delagardelle) Watkinson ’08 was promoted to Director of Cancer Services at the Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center in Cedar Rapids.

Brianne Burke ’11 is the Director of Obstetrics at Winneshiek Medical Center in Decorah, Iowa.

Kelsey Hansen ’11 has joined the Mount Mercy Alumni Board.

Beth (Ripperger) McPartlin ’11 married Michael McPartlin on May 28, 2022. Beth also received the 2022 Misericordiae Award from Mount Mercy University.

Royce Pevy, Jr. ’11 MBA is Head of Internal Audit at Smith & Wesson.

Joana Karl ’12 is a Trust Officer at Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust and has joined the Mount Mercy Alumni Board.

Sara (Kuehnle) Fisette ’13 was promoted to Vice President at Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust.

Jordan Snitker ’13 married Allison Scott ’16, ’18 MSL on May 14, 2022.

Riley (Banes) Forbes ’14 and Kyle welcomed a baby, Foster, on April 29, 2022.

Dr. Andrea (Wilhite) Hughes ’14 received the 2022 Alumni Merit Award from Mount Mercy University.

Lana (Grace) Sellner ’14 MAEd received KCRG’s A+ for Education Award.

Ryan Miller ’15 is a Staff Accountant at Netgate in Austin, Texas.

Megan (Konchar) Tarantino ’15 opened a private practice for mental health therapy in Napa, California.

Lisha Coffey ’16 MBA was named a 2022 Corridor’s 250 Most Influential Executives by the Corridor Business Journal

Dr. Carson (Burgart) Hayden ’16, ’20 MSN, ’21 DNP is a Nurse Practitioner at the Mercy Center for Memory Health in Cedar Rapids.

Chris Kapfer ’16 was named the 2021 Police Officer of the Year by the City of Coralville, Iowa.

Elyse (Nelson) Robinson ’16 is a Transportation Service Team Manager at TrueNorth in Cedar Rapids.

Kim Volk ’16 MSN was recognized as a Top 100 Women Leaders in Healthcare of 2021 by Women We Admire.

Sho Takaoka ’17, ’20 MBA, ’24 MSL is the Head Boys’ Soccer Coach at Xavier High School in Cedar Rapids and Assistant Men’s Soccer Coach at Mount Mercy University.

Christian Hindt ’18 is the Catering Manager at Bon Appetit at Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa.

Lindsey Savel ’18 is a Branch Director at Robert Half Technology in Cedar Rapids.

Micah Van Deusen ’18 is a Supervisor of Consulting Services at RSM US in Cedar Rapids.

Cassandra Neff ’19 is in revision support at Collins Aerospace in Cedar Rapids.

Kristin Roberts ’20 MSL was named a 2022 Corridor’s 250 Most Influential Executives by the Corridor Business Journal

Haley Weideman ’20 is a Tradeshow & Events Specialist at CCR in Cedar Rapids.

Alma Apolonio Bernal ’21 is an Academic Coach at the Center for Inclusive Academic Excellence at the University of Iowa.

Sarah McGuire ’21 is a Human Resource Coordinator at Iowa State University.

Daniel Snyder ’21 MBA is the Director of Compliance and Operational Risk at UBS Asset Management.

Evan Black ’22 is a Staff Accountant at BerganKDV.

Darin Bloomquist ’22 is a Lawn Care Specialist at Steffens Lawn Care.

Brady Brown ’22 is a Staff Nurse in the Burn Unit at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.

Emma Bunnell ’22 is an RN at Mercy Medical Center.

Hailey Clark ’22 is an RN at Methodist Health System in Omaha, Nebraska.

Jade Ducharme ’22 is a BHIS Caseworker at Tanager Place.

Jared Durant ’22 is in the Sales Department at GEICO.

Rob Ferguson ’22 is an Accounting Coordinator at United Way of East Central Iowa.

Camryn Foote ’22 is a Neonatal Nurse at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.

Danielle Franck ’22 is a Coordinator of Youth Ministry at Heart of Mary Catholic Cluster.

Brie Fuller ’22 is a Nurse in the Emergency Department at UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s Hospital.

Riley Hammann ’22 is a Staff Nurse at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.

Anna Mae Hayes ’22 is a Labor and Delivery Nurse at Genesis Medical Center-East.

Grace Herring ’22 is a Nurse in the Emergency Department at UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s Hospital.

Lena Hewitt ’22 is an Audit Associate at CliftonLarsonAllen in Cedar Rapids.

Rosemary Hibbs ’22 is an Administrator at Longhouse Northshire Care Center.

Lauren Hiner ’22 is a Kindergarten Teacher at Marion Independent School District.

Brianna Huegel ’22 is a Substitute Teacher.

Ronald Lund ’22 MBA is a Senior Administrative Assistant for Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital located in Boston.

Haley Martin ’22 works in the Intensive Care Unit at UnityPoint Health in Des Moines, Iowa.

Reeann McCarty ’22 MSN is a Site Occupational Health Leader and Nurse at Procter & Gamble in Iowa City, Iowa.

Kelly Pannier ’22 is an RN at UnityPoint Health-Trinity Muscatine.

Jess Peterson ’22 is an RN at UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s Hospital.

Alexis Poundstone ’22 is a Business Coordinator at Bosch Financial in Cedar Rapids.

Bri Roe ’22 is a Staff Nurse in the Eye Care Clinic at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.

Brittney Sherbring ’22 is a Nurse at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Amanda Spencer ’22 is a Recruiting Supervisor at Skywalk Group in Cedar Rapids.

Jeremy Stuckey ’22 MBA is an Operations Manager at Chewy in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Aspen VanFleet ’22 is a Medical Intensive Care Nurse at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.

Alexis Wauford ’22 is a Second Grade Teacher at Washington Elementary in Mount Vernon, Iowa.

Taylor Zieser ’22 is a Project Analyst at Collins Aerospace in Cedar Rapids.

IN MEMORIAM

This list reflects alumni who have passed between November 12, 2021- September 2, 2022.

1970 s

Virginia (McAndrew) Lammer JC ’41

Sister Mary Ann Becker JC ’44

Jeanne (Reilly) Dolan AC ’45, JC ’47

Marcella (Schott) Listebarger JC ’46

Donna (Corkery) Wolfgram JC ’46

Dorothy (Bradley) Ferguson JC ’47

Barbara (Bode) Muller AC ’47, JC ’49

Margaret (Murrin) Christiano JC ’48, RN ’52

Dr. Rachel Schemmel JC ’49

1950 s

Margaret (Corkery) Murphy JC ’50

Dorothy (Cassutt) Allen JC ’51

Mary (Wilcox) Crumpler RN ’51

Marge (Hansen) Fraenkel RN ’52

Donna (Kremer) Ironside JC ’53

Joan (Keating) Morphy RN ’53

Jane (Palmer) Conrad RN ’56

Viola (Wall) Kerr RN ’56

Alberta (Nassif) Rogers AC ’56, JC ’58

Sister Loretta Thul JC ’56, ’71

Wilma (Lukan) Cavanaugh JC ’57

Arlene (Barta) Thompson JC ’57

Judith (Popek) Gibson AC ’58

Sharlene (Goldsberry) Flynn RN ’59, ’87, ’96

1940 s 1960 s

Linda (Reed) Fink RN ’62

Rita (Havlik) Anderson ’62

Shirley (Cahoy) Anderson RN ’63

Mary (Taylor) Harris ’64

Mary (Kruse) McEniry ’65

Betty (Steenhuyse) Rogers ’67

Rita (Klein) Amling ’68

Kathryn (Ferguson) Idoni ’69

Leah McCool ’70

Judy (Bass) Hubbard ’72

James Siegling ’73

Frank Usher ’73

Martha Barry ’74

Karl Green ’76

Nancy (Bennett) Hansen ’77

Kathryn Lynch ’77

Denise Wachal ’78

Jeffrey Butler ’79 Donald Conaway ’79

Liz Hoskins ’80

Peggy (Davis) Eichenberger ’81

JoMarie (Miller) McDole ’86

Marian (Huntington) Dorothy ’87

Michael Leibfried ’93

Patrick Ball ’96

Ronald Herrick ’97

Pam (Miller) Vagle ’03

Dennis Mahan ’06

1980 s 1990 s 2000 s 2010 s

Sylvia Williams ’10, ’17 MSL

AC = Academy

JC = Junior College

RN = Mercy Hospital School of Nursing

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FROM the ARCHIVES

Jane Steele-Bolt ’81 holds up the women’s basketball team trophy at the close of the 1980-81 season while Jane Meyer ’82 gives the power salute. The Mustangs played Wisconsin-LaCrosse for the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW) Division III national championship in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The team placed second, with a final score of 71-79.

This tournament was the second of three opportunities for the national title in their division, with the team finishing second in the 1979-80 and 1981-82 seasons. The accomplishment remains untouched by any other Mount Mercy sport in the institution’s history. This year, the team was the first to ever be inducted into the Mount Mercy Athletic Hall of Fame. Read more about their induction at mtmercy.edu/hall-of-fame