Paula Moss, Vice President of Advancement and Alumni Relations
You Shaped the Future — Thank You
There is nothing like the beginning of a new academic year at RU! Moving the new freshman into their residence halls (including hauling a lot of refrigerators and futons up many flights of stairs). Welcoming back all the upper-classman students. Orientation, Mass of the Holy Spirit, Free Stuff Fair, and getting supplies and textbooks ready for the first day of class. You can feel the energy and excitement. I wish I could bottle it up and send it to each of you!
You make this happen! You are shaping the dreams of Rockhurst University students. You haven’t just supported an education; you’ve invested in the dreams of future nurses, educators, psychologists, entrepreneurs, engineers, and leaders who carry Jesuit values into the world.
David Drummond, Class of 2027, is one of those students. A sports management major, David says, “The best part of my experience so far has been participating in student leadership opportunities… I enjoy interacting with a diverse range of students and helping introduce new students to Rockhurst. And I am grateful for your support.”
I hope you will take a look at the stories in the Insider. You will learn about many of our new partnerships and programs. In addition, you will see the incredible support from the Marion and Henry Bloch Family Foundation, alumna Jessica Shepler Rebholz, ’04, and family, and Catherine Price, librarian in the Greenlease Library. We are grateful for their support in shaping our students!
Remember, you are always invited to come to campus! Be sure to stop by the RU Alumni and Advancement office in Massman 235. I might just give you a bottle of that RU spirit!!
The Bloch Scholars Program: Empowering Future Leaders
Launched in 2000 as a heartfelt retirement gift to H&R
Block co-founder Henry W. Bloch, the Bloch Scholars Program has grown into a life-changing opportunity for determined students whose grades might not tell the whole story of their potential. Henry called it his favorite gift and it’s easy to see why.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Marion and Henry Bloch Family Foundation, the program provides full-tuition scholarships to academically promising students across Kansas City. These scholars typically begin their journey at Donnelly College or Metropolitan Community College (MCC), earning their associate degree before transferring to the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) or, as of 2023, Rockhurst University.
Now in its second year at Rockhurst, the program has
quickly expanded to nearly 50 Bloch Scholars on campus for the 2025–2026 academic year. Beyond financial support, students benefit from personalized coaching, dedicated program staff, and a community of peers across all partner schools.
The Bloch Scholars Program is more than a scholarship— it’s a vote of confidence, a pathway to success, and a powerful reminder of what’s possible when someone believes in you. We are deeply grateful to the Marion and Henry Bloch Family Foundation for making this transformative program a reality.
For more information on scholarships please contact Leslie Hernandez at leslie.hernandez@rockhurst.edu or by phone 816-501-4537.
Paula Moss Vice President of Advancement and Alumni Relations
Welcome, Siobhan Cottone
Associate Director of Development & Planned Giving
Siobhan has enjoyed a successful career in the nonprofit sector for over 20 years. She has held leadership roles in development and advancement for various respected organizations, including two private college preparatory schools and nonprofits focused on human services and animal welfare. She also served as Executive Director of the Lakeside Legacy Foundation and Dole Mansion, gaining rich and rewarding experience in the arts and education fields. Siobhan is excited to build meaningful relationships with alumni, families and friends of Rockhurst University and looks forward to helping them achieve their charitable goals. You may reach Siobhan at 816-501-4035 or siobhan.cottone@rockhurst.edu.
Coming Soon — Hawks Pep Band!
Hoping to offer another opportunity for students and further enhance the gameday experience for spectators, Rockhurst University athletics will add a pep band to its slate of offerings starting in fall 2026.
The new program will offer a unique, scholarship-eligible opportunity for current and incoming students interested in expanding or continuing their interest in music, while also boosting the energy for Hawks fans and players at Rockhurst University basketball and volleyball games, as well as other athletic events.
Kristy Bayer, Director of Athletics, is proud to announce John Wilson to lead the new RU Pep Band. Wilson received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from Southwest Baptist before going on to earn his Master of Science in Secondary Administration from the University of Central Missouri. He is currently finishing his Ph.D. in Music Education at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
"I'm excited and honored to serve as the new director of the Rockhurst Pep Band," said Wilson. "I look forward to being a part of the gameday experience at MasonHalpin Field House."
For more information on supporting the RU Pep Band or other athletic programs, please reach out to brent.blazek@rockhurst.edu or by phone at 816-501-4375.
John Wilson
Shaping the Future, WITH PARTNERS
Pro sports teams, nonprofits, even superheroes — all are more likely to succeed when they work together. It’s true for universities, too — especially smaller institutions like Rockhurst University, where providing opportunities for students always needs to be balanced against available resources.
That’s where partnerships come in — by taking a strategic approach, Rockhurst University can build new programs and opportunities that serve student desires and community needs in a sustainable way. And over the past few years, that’s exactly what we’ve done, all because of donors just like you.
The Art (and Science) of Partnerships
At Rockhurst University, partnerships are more than collaborations — they’re catalysts for growth and innovation. The 2020 merger with Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences set the tone, uniting two faith-based, nonprofit institutions dedicated to preparing leaders who serve with compassion and excellence.
Since then, Rockhurst has continued to expand its impact through bold alliances. With Saint Louis University, we launched groundbreaking programs in cybersecurity and nurse anesthesia. New cohorts in speech-language pathology at Regis University and Creighton University extend our mission across Denver, Omaha, and Phoenix. And in November 2024, Rockhurst proudly joined Kansas City University to offer accelerated pathways to advanced medical and health science degrees, opening even greater doors for tomorrow’s leaders.
Moving Forward Together and Expanding the Jesuit Impact
Spring Hill College, Mobile, Alabama
Rockhurst University proudly announces a dynamic new alliance with fellow Jesuit institution Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama. Launched in March 2025, this partnership expands access to online courses across campuses, creating fresh opportunities for students to explore programs beyond their home institution.
Spring Hill students will gain new majors in business analytics, criminal justice, and exercise science, along with streamlined pathways into Rockhurst master’s programs in data analytics and speech-language pathology, and doctoral programs in physical and occupational therapy. Rockhurst students will benefit from access to Spring Hill’s renowned Italy Center in Bologna, combining academic excellence with global experience.
Rockhurst University remains committed to strengthening partnerships—and thanks our donors for making these opportunities possible.
Gratitude for All
Rockhurst is fortunate to have so many great partners. We are grateful for these collaborations, which help expand our reach and provide more opportunities for our students. We are also very thankful for our alumni, families, and friends who generously support the programs and scholarships. Shaping the future is not possible without all of you.
For additional information on partnerships or scholarships, please reach out to Paula Moss at paula.moss@rockhurst.edu.
Congratulations, Dr. Cassady!
Rockhurst University President Sandra Cassady, Ph.D., has been selected as a member of the Kansas City Business Journal’s 2025 class of Women of Influence. The 25 honorees were chosen not only for their leadership but also for their efforts in elevating other women. The 2025 Women of Influence were honored in August.
Cassady said she was honored to stand next to a group of high-profile leaders — executives from places like Russell Stover Chocolates, Google Fiber, Kansas City Current, JE Dunn Construction and the Health Forward Foundation.
“I was honored to be nominated and even more honored and humbled to be selected,” she said. “This is a very accomplished group of leaders. Kansas City has many outstanding attributes and one of them having so many women leaders in C-suite roles across a variety of industries.”
Librarian’s
Catherine Price, content services librarian at Rockhurst’s Greenlease Library, has made a career of supporting students across academic disciplines — from English and fine arts to philosophy and women and gender studies. But her commitment to student success doesn’t stop at the library doors. As a longtime recurring donor, Catherine gives each month to help students meet essential needs that often go unseen.
“Sometimes I see students deep in study mode and viscerally remember how demanding that time of life can be,” she said. “Donating feels like a way to sprinkle a bit of compassion onto our past selves.”
Whether it’s a student struggling with internet access or a quiet place to study, Catherine understands how real-life challenges can impact academic performance. “I can’t fix those things directly, but supporting programs that recognize and address those barriers feels incredibly meaningful,” she says.
“It’s a way to live out one of my favorite Jesuit values—contemplation in action.”
Catherine said for her, setting up ongoing support for Rockhurst was simple — and deeply meaningful. As an employee, she chose automatic payroll deduction, which makes consistent giving effortless. Her advice to others?
“Do it! Payroll deduction makes it super easy!”
Students
If you’ve ever wondered how to support Rockhurst students in a tangible, lasting way, consider joining Catherine and others who give regularly to help meet students where they are — and help them thrive. In addition to payroll deduction for employees, recurring gifts can also be made using a credit or debit card or ACH transfer.
For more information on recurring donations, please get in touch with Becky Sanchez at rebecca.sanchez@rockhurst.edu or 816-501-4431.
Serving with Gratitude: A Commitment to Rockhurst Athletics
Gratitude. This is what inspires Jessica (Shepler) Rebholz, ’04, to give back in support of athletics, specifically the women’s volleyball program. While Rebholz's hall of fame volleyball career included being a twotime NCAA All-American and the program's all-time leader in kills, she says the life skills and relationships she gained are what she treasures most today.
"When I look back on my experience, I'm so grateful for the lifelong relationships I formed with my teammates; Coach Rietzke, who instilled confidence and accountability; and my mentors who guided me both on and off the court," said Rebholz.
Today, while residing in Los Angeles with her husband, Josh, and their three children, Rebholz finds ways to invest in the success of the program and the student-athlete experience. She gives back through annual gifts to the volleyball program and by volunteering on special committees that support the Athletics Hall of Fame and milestone events, including the 50 Years of Women's Athletics celebration in 2024.
Jessica and many of her teammates attended
the celebration and had the opportunity to meet the current student-athletes who are carrying on their legacy of success both on and off the court.
"Volleyball is a true team sport, emphasizing communication, leadership and mutual support," said Jessica. "Knowing the program continues to cultivate these values, as seen during my last visit with current players, makes me so proud."
With the support of Jessica and other alumni and fans, the women's volleyball program opened the 50th season in program history with the unique opportunity to compete in Fairbanks, Alaska, for the Ice Block Classic.
To learn more about how you can make an impact on the experience of student-athletes, visit rockhursthawks.com/give or contact Brent Blazek at brent.blazek@rockhurst.edu.
Welcome, Leslie Hernandez, ’18
Stewardship & Scholarship Manager
L
eslie Hernandez, a two-time alumna of Rockhurst, returns with nearly 15 years of experience in donor engagement, nonprofit leadership, and global program development. Her journey — from Rockhurst student to international nonprofit leader — inspires her commitment to creating scholarship opportunities that help students thrive.
Passionate about the power of education, Leslie looks forward to partnering with alumni, friends and supporters. Connect with her to share your story and explore how you can make a difference for Rockhurst students. Contact Leslie at leslie.hernandez@rockhurst.edu or 816-501-4537.
1100 Rockhurst Road
Kansas City, MO 64110-2561
Welcome, Mary Campbell Kennedy, ’12 Regional Advancement Officer – St. Louis Area
We’re excited to welcome Mary Campbell Kennedy, ’12, as Regional Advancement Officer for St. Louis. After 13 years in health care, Mary is thrilled to return to her alma mater to connect with alumni and strengthen the RU community. Now living in St. Louis, she invites all Hawks to reach out at mary.kennedy@rockhurst.edu or 816-589-2586.
Welcome, Beth Kuta
Advancement Office Coordinator
We are pleased that Beth Kuta has joined the Advancement/Alumni Relations team. Beth comes to Rockhurst with extensive experience in office and business management, as well as budgeting. Her experience is vast, including serving as Executive Assistant at Kansas City’s Nonprofit Connect. Beth is very excited to be joining our team! Welcome Beth!.
ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY
ALUMNI
Upcoming Events
NOVEMBER 6, 2025 | 11 : 30 a.m.
Rockhurst University Leadership Series in St. Louis
Featuring Kelly Chase of the St. Louis Blues
Clayton Plaza Hotel
DECEMBER, 2025 | TBD
Kansas City Alumni Christmas Party
DECEMBER 6, 2025 | 6 - 9 p.m.
St. Louis Alumni Christmas Party
Failoni’s Restaurant
DECEMBER 6, 2025 | 5 - 6:30 p.m.
Rockhurst University's Santa at the Rock Room Massman Hall
DECEMBER 9 , 2025 | 6 p.m.
Omaha Alumni Christmas Party
Champions Run Country Club
FEBRUARY 9 , 2026 | 5 p.m.
Alumni Night at the Ballgame Convocation Center / Mason-Halpin Fieldhouse
For more information, visit rockhurst.edu/alumni.