Saint Michael's College Magazine, Spring/Summer 2017

Saint Michael’s SAINT MICHAEL’S COLLEGE MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2017

The Power of Place Vermont: A Beacon of Hope in a Confusing World

THE POWER OF PLACE This issue is grounded in Vermont and the Saint Michael’s community: physical, emotional, intellectual, and political. We consider the past, present, and future of that community. What do Saint Michael’s graduates carry with them from the Vermont campus into the world? In what ways are St. Mike’s and Vermont beacons for the future? We look at the food movement, farming, immigration, key biological issues, and the job climate in Vermont. This state is changing and St. Mike’s is changing, too.

Some of the changes are sources of anxiety. Others are a source of hope.

It’s the nature of things.

— Susan Salter Reynolds, Editor

21 Bringing It Back to Bogotá

by Susan Salter Reynolds

FOUNDERS HALL 2 Rooted in Place A Letter from President John J. Neuhauser

22 A Unique Bond: Tomi Akinpetide ’17 and Indira Evora ’17

by Susan Salter Reynolds

STORIES 3 Welcoming New Americans to Vermont: Thato Ratsebe ’05

by Susan Salter Reynolds 6 The New Vermont Farmer

by Susan Salter Reynolds 12 Not Ordinary and Not Nice

by Lauren N. Read 13 Miss Minister

by Mark Tarnacki

24 Should I Stay or Should I Go? The Vermont Job Climate

by Lauren N. Read

40 Reflections from My Favorite Study Spot

by Kim McCray ’00 41 Joseph Cyprien Bonhomme

From St. Michael’s to Basutoland, Africa

by Shirley LaVigne-Ahern, M.Ed ’86 42 Books

28 Snow Queen

by Susan Salter Reynolds

44 Reunion 2017

by Mark Tarnacki

30 McCabe’s Army

by Susan Salter Reynolds

46 Commencement

by Mark Tarnacki

34 Bearing Witness

by Allison Scavotto

48 The Round-Up: 2017 Athletic Hall of Fame Update

by Josh Kessler ’04

36 14 The Beauty of Diversity

An Interview with Dagan Loisel

by Susan Salter Reynolds

16 As goes Vermont…

Saint Michael’s Alumni in the State Capital

by Mark Tarnacki

The Original Campus Farmers: How the Edmundites Came to Vermont CLASS NOTES

by Mark Tarnacki 49 Message from the Alumni Association President Annie Rosello ’94 50 Class Notes 62 In Memoriam

SAINT MICHAEL’S COLLEGE MAGAZINE Spring/Summer 2017 Volume 17, No. 1 smcvt.edu/magazine

DESIGN Harp and Company Graphic Design Douglas G. Harp Jennifer Fisher

EDITOR Susan Salter Reynolds

MAGAZINE ADVISORY BOARD Angela Armour ’99 M’09 Alessandro Bertoni Lindsay Damici Rev. Raymond Doherty ’51, S.S.E. Sarah M. Kelly Josh Kessler ’04 Jerald Swope Mark Tarnacki

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mark Tarnacki Josh Kessler ‘04 Lauren Read Allison Scavotto PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHER Jerald Swope

Saint Michael’s College Magazine (ISSN 0279-3016) is published by the Office of Marketing and Communications two times a year. The views expressed in the Saint Michael’s College Magazine do not necessarily represent the official policies and views of Saint Michael’s College.

POSTMASTER Please send address changes to: Saint Michael’s College One Winooski Park. Box 6 Colchester, VT 05439

EDITORIAL OFFICE Saint Michael’s College One Winooski Park, Box 6 Colchester, VT 05439 802 654 2556 SMCMagazine@smcvt.edu @2017 All rights reserved ON THE COVER: Spring planting in Saint Michael’s organic garden.

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FOUNDERS HALL 2

Rooted in Place

W

e finally have glorious spring days after a season in which March extended its fingers into early June. And an old friend dropped off a shishito pepper today because she knew that mine are stuck in early adolescence. With only twelve hours of sun, the drooping yellow-leaved tomatoes have decided that they look better in dark green.

So it’s spring at last in the northwest corner of Vermont.

It’s green and it’s bright and the weeds are a month away

and the days are long and all is promise. It is simply an easier time to entertain the importance of place, of the land this College has inhabited for five score and ten — because we do occupy what was not so long ago a farm.

I’ve had a farm too, or the bank and I have, for over thirty years. It’s the proper way to be rooted to a place you love, even if this hilly, rocky place does not easily include you as family.

When I asked my neighbor,

a fifth-generation dairy farmer, if I could now be accepted as a Vermonter after thirty years, he said “No.” “How about my kids?”

“If the cat had kittens in the oven you wouldn’t call them muffins, would you?”

I can see that I have a ways to go.

Okay, but what about the importance of place for the College? At the most fundamental level it is one of only two truly unique characteristics we hold. We are Edmundite and we are in Vermont. We can’t and won’t change these. And being in, and of Vermont, is very much who we are. It’s not a place for everyone.

Winters are long and often hard, spring lasts but a few days, and then there are black flies and a summer which ends in a glorious colorful celebration of the land.

The seasons are accompanied by their own unique products of the land, from maple syrup and sugar on snow to increasingly great cheese and, I am told, wonderful craft beer. Small farms abound and we have one here at the College, too. It’s a hard place to be a farmer. The soil and climate test one daily, but increasingly we rely on these small outposts to

provide us with a substantial share of our food, even in our dining hall, and we bend our appetites to accommodate what can be grown.

It’s good that we are so closely connected to the land; good that it is hard. The Almighty designed it so we would appreciate it all the more. You want easy and citrus twelve months? Go to California!

You want to learn patience, the importance of work, the reason there are neighbors and stone walls, and town meetings where all are equal, and roads that diverge in the woods, the necessity of having your fingers in the muck, the reason why we drink Switchel? Come to these mountains.

Look inside these covers and see what our people have made for you.

John J. Neuhauser President

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Welcoming New Americans to Vermont Thato Ratsebe ’05 Assistant Director/Programs Manager Association of Africans Living in Vermont (AALV)

by Susan Salter Reynolds

T

hato Ratsebe ’05 works for the Association of Africans Living in Vermont (AALV), a community-based nonprofit organization in Burlington that serves refugees and immigrants from all over the world. Ratsebe explains her role: “With more people resettling in Vermont, the organization has expanded services to ensure that everyone who comes through our doors feels welcome.

While my primary role is to manage programs and supervise staff, I also do direct services with clients who may have complex cases. My other role is to facilitate groups and deliver health education programs to ensure our communities have accurate information to lead healthy lives.”

She adds, “We work as a team to help people with various needs, such as application for housing, jobs, and referrals to other appropriate service providers such, as counseling services; as well as advocacy.

We also offer immigration services to help with adjusting status and naturalization, and

other immigration-related matters. I help lead a team of incredible case managers who are fiercely dedicated to their work. Their dedication drives what I do.”

She’s busy.

And organized.

And kind.

One of AALV’s programs is New Farms for New Americans, a community-based gardening and agriculture program that serves on average 100 refugees and immigrants each year. Many of the 6,300 refugees who have settled in Vermont over the last 30 years have come with a lifelong experience of farming, but once here many do not have sufficient access to land and resources to continue their agrarian traditions. New Farms for New Americans allows these gardeners and farmers to

grow large quantities of fresh vegetables for their families (over 300 refugee households were served in 2015); grow culturally significant crops such as snake gourd, water spinach, roselle, daikon, amaranth, African eggplants, and mustard greens; and create food and financial security.

How did Saint Michael’s College affect the path of Ratsebe’s life? “Saint Michael’s was a place for total growth and discovery. My involvement with MOVE, the Student Global AIDS Campaign, and the Center for Multicultural Affairs affected me deeply, and the dedication to causes that professors and other community members demonstrated was infectious.

Just to mention a few influencers: Trish Siplon, Moise St. Louis, John Carvellas, Lou DiMasi, Mike Samara, Paul Olsen, Fr. Mike (RIP), Fr. Brian, and the entire Campus Ministry team, and of course, the entire faculty at the Media Studies, Journalism & Digital Arts department.

They all saw something in me and supported me in ways that I can never explain. Their affirmation came through in small conversations or acts of kindness.”

Ratsebe’s education at St. Mike’s helped her to refine her vision and goals. “Faculty take the mission very seriously and live by it. When you are surrounded by people who care, and are not afraid to challenge the status quo, and search for the truth, how can you not want to become one of them?” she asks.

“My professors were interested in my personal and professional growth, and encouraged me to get engaged outside the classroom. I was lucky to have teachers who pushed me to not only take what they’d share in class, but do extra research and form my own opinions.

I realized that my purpose and calling is to serve ‘the other.’

When the opportunity presents itself and you can make a difference in another person’s life, go for it! That’s what I go by. My goal is to do whatever it takes to make the world a better place to live in. That means passionately advocating for and respectfully engaging with others, and hopefully serving as a role model to the younger generation while encouraging them to realize their true potential.”

role in influencing my love for Vermont. Coming from a communal society, I couldn’t help but connect with my neighbors. Ironically, they also influenced my views of life, and showed me true humanity by their deep caring. Dan Cox and Casey Blanchard, as well as Sarah Millham and Tom Horton, made me realize Vermont has people who simply don’t care about the

help. Employers are interested in hiring refugees and immigrants and understand that refugees are here to secure stable lives for their children.

Refugees have increased cultural diversity in Vermont.

This is a huge benefit to the state. People from different walks of life are coming here and enriching each other and the local community. If Vermonters remain open to

“When you are surrounded by people who care, and are not afraid to challenge the status quo, and search for the truth, how can you not want When Ratsebe first arrived in Vermont, her first stop from to become one of them?”

Botswana, she was a little disappointed. “I expected to see the taller buildings that I saw on TV while back home.

I am not sure if I totally understood that there were different states! Over time, I fell in love with the state and grew to appreciate the beauty of Vermont, how the residents take care of their own environment, and the level of community involvement in both local and state politics.

The great unconditional love and support I got from my host family, Bill Ryerson and Leta Finch, also played a huge

color of my skin, but have interest in knowing that I am settling well and have everything I need to feel welcome.”

Now Ratsebe helps others make Vermont their home.

How does she do it? “Vermont is a welcoming place. It is not a huge state and therefore is a little easier to navigate.

You also have so many people who care about the refugee journey and take extra steps to

a matter of choice. The many challenges refugees face include raising children in a different society while trying to maintain their own cultural value systems. “There’s obviously going to be conflict,” she says. “Adaptation takes time. Dealing with the past and the horrific experiences that people went through fleeing war zones is challenging. The existing systems, such as schools and social service providers, are working hard to accommodate newer populations. Overall, people are learning to be patient and work with each other because there’s always a lesson to learn.”

learning from others, this could help the younger generation learn to coexist and realize that we are all humans, and some of our differences can make the world a better place. It’s really up to state legislatures and businesses to tap into the talent that’s here to enhance the economy of the state.”

She continues, “When you work in a nonprofit, you don’t do it for money. It has to come from your heart. I work with people with big hearts.

It’s encouraging. I gently push my colleagues to see the gifts they have and to foster them to do the best they can. They also challenge me to keep improving. I try my best to support their professional growth by offering professional trainings and by giving them space to be creative. That’s what I strive to do. I am learning to be a front leader, and hope to create a solid team that will forever be proud of the incredible difference they make in the community.”

Leaving your home country because you are displaced by war, Ratsebe explains, is not

Is Ratsebe ever homesick?

Yes, she admits. “For my beautiful family.”

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THE NEW VE

HEIDI LYNCH ’IO WAS BORN IN BOSTON, MOVED TO VERMONT WITH HER PARENTS WHEN SHE WAS EIGHT MONTHS OLD, AND GREW UP IN RUTLAND. “SO, TECHNICALLY,” SHE JOKES, “I’M NOT A VERMONTER, THOUGH I’VE ALWAYS CONSIDERED MYSELF A VERMONTER. AND IN THIS CONTEXT A VERMONTER THAT IS

RMONT FARMER: Social Justice, Community,

by Susan Salter Reynolds

CHOOSING TO STAY AND TRY TO MAKE A LIVING IN VERMONT IN THE FARM AND FOOD MOVEMENT, WHICH, ACCORDING TO THE STATE DATA, IS A RARITY FOR MY AGE DEMOGRAPHIC. APPARENTLY MOST OF US WHO GREW UP HERE ARE LEAVING TO WORK IN CITIES WHERE THERE ARE BETTER JOBS. THOSE WHO COME HERE FOR COLLEGE ONLY STAY FOR A FEW YEARS, THEN MOVE BACK TO CITIES.”

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THE NEW VERMONT FARMER 8

B

ut Lynch stayed. When she was in high school, she wandered down the road to a neighbor’s farm and asked if she could work the farm stand. “What I really need,” said the farmer, “is help in the fields.”

Ever-practical, Lynch says her first thought was: “What shoes should I wear?”

the culture and the people they find themselves working with, wanting to change food and agricultural policy, caring about good nutritious food, and caring that everyone has access to that food.

These are all aspects of the food movement. And Vermont, many claim, is the epicenter of that movement. As with the women’s, civil rights, and environmental movements, there’s a lot of work to be done — on the ground, in the halls of government, in the neighborhoods and counties where change is most needed, and in the hearts and minds of the people starting down that path. It’s not always clear where the jobs are, what skills are needed, or what the salary might be.

But no one I spoke with for this story is deterred by any of these unknowns.

And let’s be clear: That’s not easy. “Since the Keegan Wilson ’18 and Kristyn Achilich ’05, Academic Program Coordinator of the Organic Garden & economic downturn in Permaculture Sites 2008,” says Biology Professor Mark LubkowAnd so began a lifetime of work in and around food. “I fell itz, “many bio majors are going into healthcare — the only in love with it all,” she remembers. “With being physically tired, industry these days where a degree guarantees affluence.” Used working with my hands, and eating delicious, nutritious to be, he recalls, that students interested in the localvore and food.” Today Lynch runs the Vermont Farmers Food Center’s organic food movements were all bio majors. “Now they tend Health Care Share program in Rutland. to be Environmental Studies majors.”

Young people who enter the world of agriculture, the artisanal economy, or the local organic food scene are drawn to it for many reasons. These include being outside, enjoying

He may not know it, but Lubkowitz models the lifestyle of someone who is passionate about good, nutritious food and the communities that grow around it. Between dinners at his home eating food from the family garden and vineyard, an annual Tour of the Tongue tasting event, and an obviously healthful, environmentally sustainable lifestyle, Lubkowitz has shown many students over the years what this lifestyle looks like. Many students remember and refer to this exposure.

“I’M NEVER LEAVING VERMONT.” In other words, career paths are not always envisioned in the classroom.

Kristyn Achilich ’05, the academic program coordinator of the organic garden and permaculture site for the College, studied biology with Lubkowitz. She started researching plant genetics and quickly realized that she wanted to be outside. Working at a ski and bike shop led to teaching mountain biking, which led to getting a graduate degree at Saint Michael’s in Education, which led to teaching biology to high school students, which led to an M.S. in Food Systems at UVM, which led her right into the arms of the food movement and right back to Saint Michael’s — creating the next generation of people who care about where their food comes from.

sell vegetables, to understand microbiology — in the soils and in everyday hygiene. It’s crucial to success. It’s great to be an entrepreneur, but it’s important to understand the science behind what you make.” Achilich also believes that hands-on experiences growing food are critical for a deeper contribution to the food movement. And these experiences enhance the students’ food security.

Part of Achilich’s job is managing the campus garden, which has grown from a quarter-acre to an acre and three-quarters. The garden has a history of service to the community. In the 1980s, the garden (then called the Hunger Garden) was farmed by the Edmundites, who gave the food to community organizations and pantry shelf services.

Work was done by volunteers.

“I’m never leaving Vermont,” she says, sitting in her cozy office on campus, marveling at the path her life has followed. “I Today, the garden studied molecular science serves many purposes. but I didn’t have a grasp Some of the produce of the macro level or the goes to an on-campus qualitative value of that Seedlings growing in the hoop house for field production and sale at the farm stand. Some goes work — what food St. Mike’s weekly farm stand. to the Intervale Food security meant or how to Hub to serve a lowtalk to people about these issues. I never set out to be a farmer income CSA. Achilich is working on getting more food into or a teacher, and I’m both of those now.” the Sodexo-run campus dining hall.

Looking back, it all makes sense. Getting the grounding in molecular biology has given Achilich an important foundation for understanding larger food systems. “It’s really critical,” she says, “whether you make cheese or brew beer or grow and

Achilich offers internships and work-study opportunities.

She teaches a food systems class. The garden serves as a lab for several classes, including Plant Biology, and as a hands-on experiential learning opportunity for deeper understanding of, say, gender roles in agriculture for those

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THE NEW VERMONT FARMER 10

Left to Right: Allie Novak ’17, Alyssa Valentyn ’19, Lizzie McCarty ’18, Keegan Wilson ’18 and Kristyn Achilich ’05 studying environmental history. A veterans garden initiative on campus draws veterans like Chris Boutin ’18, studying psychology with an interest in the healing effects of gardening.

“Students come to the garden for different reasons,” Achilich reports. “Some are passionate about environmental issues.

Some just want to be outside.” On average, she guesses, six to ten students a year, like Brian Teed ’16, Savannah Clinton ’16, Graham Kaigle ’18 (a native Vermonter and Environmental Studies major with family land in Vermont), and Amanda Kellner ’15 (a Dean’s List Environmental Studies and Anthropology double major, and the 2014 recipient of a $2,500 Brian Lacey ’72 International Fellowship in Social Justice that enabled her to study for the spring 2014 semester in Brazil), will actually work on farms after graduation. Some, like

Patrick Knapp ’13 (a math major who, Lubkowitz reports, designed mathematical models of goat foraging) or Tyler Gaudet ’07 (who worked on a commercial aquaponics farm in Maine), started their own small-scale food-related businesses.

Many more, like Erin Buckley ’17 (who has a passion for social justice and service), will enter the food movement or go on to graduate school in related areas.

Chloe Boutelle ’15, after a year of travel, went to the graduate program in food systems at UVM. Originally interested in health and nutrition, she credits Lubkowitz’s senior seminar, Exploring Food Systems, with leading her down her current path, studying how large institutions might incorporate organic food from sustainable sources into their culinary programs.

Boutelle’s vision of both the food movement and her role in it has broadened exponentially. The movement “is about becoming an “I THINK TO MYSELF, ‘HOLD ON! DON’T JUST educated consumer. It’s about building local resistance to shocks in the ACCEPT WHAT IS! DON’T ENCOURAGE global food system. It’s about our impact on the environment. It’s about THESE BROKEN SYSTEMS! IF WE BUILT IT, WE CAN social justice, better conditions for farm

DECONSTRUCT IT.’”

workers, water rights, farm viability, legislation, food waste, and personal health.” Boutelle is on fire. “It’s complex,” she says, “but Professor Lubkowitz always told us, ‘embrace complexity.’ ” Friends in the artisanal economy, she reports, are interested in scale and sustainability and organic best practices. What attracts people to this work? “People in the food movement share core values. As students at Saint Michael’s, we were encouraged to get involved, to think bigger, and to make changes. I understand,” says Boutelle, “that not all farmers can afford to make the changes I might like them to make — but we are trying to find ways to support their desire to farm sustainably.”

Heidi Lynch hasn’t stopped since graduation in 2010. She worked on a farm in India for several years; has been a longtime part of the Social Justice League, run by Trish Siplon; worked for the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps; managed the garden at Saint Michael’s (before Achilich); and worked tirelessly for food access, including her current position as program director at the Vermont Farmers Food Center. Lynch sees her job as bringing people in healthcare and agriculture and politics together to end food insecurity and make good food available to all. Her current hope is to inspire insurance companies to support these efforts and to help doctors rebuild the health system to encourage preventive health

Ingrid Peterson is the interim director of the Office of Career Development at Saint Michael’s. While her data show small numbers of internships and of students going into the ag/food world, she reports that the students who do are extremely passionate about their path. “The job possibilities in this area are still being defined.” This is, she reminds a listener, a liberal arts college, but one with a strong get-out-there-and-do-it ethic.

Heather Lynch (no relation to Heidi) has run the Office of Sustainability at St. Mike’s for nine years. Like Achilich, she received her M.S. in sustainable food systems from Green Mountain College after graduating from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in environmental conservation.

“I see something beautiful happening here,” she says. “Students want to be part of the place. They are interested in how the food they eat impacts their environment. I try to find the things that bring us all to the table. Food is the perfect vehicle.”

Classes like The Politics of Food, taught by Mike Bosia, associate professor of political science (Bosia and his partner founded the famous farm-to-table restaurant Claire’s in Hardwick, VT) inspire students to learn more about how their actions and choices affect their environment.

“When I was an undergraduate,” says Lynch, “I didn’t believe I could study the things I was passionate about.” Lynch did an internship in campus sustainability and was hooked. “There are so many ways for students to get involved on a wide variety of levels here in Vermont,” she says. “There’s the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA), the Intervale Food Hub, Vermont First, the Vermont Farmers Food Center, Vermont Farm to Plate Network, and so many more.”

Tiana Dunne ’20 and Keegan Wilson ’18 measures. She’s worked with new Americans who bring their agricultural practices and knowledge about food to the Vermont table. “I think to myself, ‘Hold on! Don’t just accept what is! Don’t encourage these broken systems! If we built it, we can deconstruct it!’”

Why Vermont? “There’s a culture of authenticity here,” Heidi Lynch says. “This work is not lucrative, but there is a community holding you up. Food is in abundance. Farmers are generous. There is job growth in the food movement in Vermont. My asparagus patch is my social security!”

To see a video of the garden, visit smcvt.edu/magazine.

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Not Ordinary and Not Nice

by Lauren N. Read

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P

eggy Citarella’s story isn’t exactly a secret on the Saint Michael’s campus. It’s hard to ignore the person who was the first female welder at the Charlestown Navy Yard during World War II. Unfortunately, Citarella’s groundbreaking story was more of a local legend. That is about to change, thanks to the work of Julia Wagner ’18.

“Talking to congressmen and other representatives about her story, her impact,” Wagner

Female Welder at the Charlestown Navy Yard during WWII.” The South Burlington resident approached Saint Michael’s Professor George Dameron about the opportunities for the project and received funding from the Vice President of Academic Affairs Summer Research Grant to pursue the work.

Wagner’s project received national recognition after being accepted for Posters on the Hill, an exhibit in

anniversary of the National Park Service. “It’s always fascinating to hear the ‘first woman welder,’ ” Wagner says. “The fact that she was the first, the fact that she surpassed so many expectations…just by that token it is something that draws people in.”

Wagner, an English major, has long been connected to St. Mike’s. Her mother, Joan Wagner, is the director of the Center for CommunityEngaged Learning and Coordinator of Experiential Learning at the College.

Citarella’s husband taught at the school for 51 years and passed away in 2015.

Julia Wagner ’18 with Peggy Citarella.

The two met by chance when Wagner was a student at Rice Memorial High School in South Burlington and Citarella needed someone to help her around the house.

“She started telling me all sorts of things about her experience in the Navy Yard and how she got to be there,” Wagner says. “At the time she was 93, so I realized how important it was to get the story down.”

says, “was just an amazing opportunity. I am happy to get [her story] out there.” Wagner began researching Citarella, the widow of longtime Saint Michael’s professor Armand “Doc” Citarella, and published a project called “Not Ordinary and Not Nice: The Story of Peggy Citarella, the First

One of Wagner’s favorite memories from the now-96year-old was about how she struggled to find someone to certify her in the profession.

After trying various trade schools, she approached the Newton (MA) Trade School.

“There was this man there and she asked ‘I want

Washington, DC, that showcases undergraduate research. She presented her project to U.S. representatives on April 25 and 26.

The college junior also shared Citarella’s story last year at a special program at the Charlestown Navy Yard celebrating the 100th

to be a welder; can you teach me?’” Wagner recounts.

“He said ‘Ordinary, nice girls don’t learn to weld.’ She said ‘Well, I am not nice and I am not ordinary.’ He was taken aback and said let’s see what this girl can do.

“She has,” reported Wagner, “this tenacious spirit that I would love to emulate.” Not only did the story intrigue Wagner, but it became the title of her work. “One theme that I noticed the most in her stories is that she had to persevere in almost every facet,” Wagner says. “When someone tells you ‘no’ but you know it’s right or that you can make a change in some way, keep going. That’s what she did and she excelled.”

Now that Wagner has spread Citarella’s story from Saint Michael’s to Washington, DC, she has been asked to archive her work for the National Park Service — which she hopes to complete this summer — before presenting her work at the Durick Library at Saint Michael’s College.

“There was an amazing moment when I was presenting at Alumni Weekend and [Citarella] came,” Wagner says.

“I did my little piece and…

I stepped back and everyone talked to her. She just lit up the room.”

Miss Minister

by Mark Tarnacki

S

aint Michael’s student Maria Rania Liu Goncalves wants to be leader of her island homeland, East Timor (Timor-Leste), a onetime Portuguese colony of just 1.2 million citizens that only restored national independence in 2002 on the now-peaceful but long-embattled eastern tip of the Indonesian archipelago.

Anybody who hears the 34year-old’s alternately hair-raising, inspiring, and charming life story of survival, determination, achievement, and serendipity won’t bet against her. By the time “Rania” got to Saint Michael’s last year, with strong advocacy from Anthropology Professor Patti Delaney, she had beaten long odds more than once.

Oldest of 11 children, her dad a driver and mechanic for Jesuits, her mom a math teacher, Rania felt obliged from an early age to see that all her younger siblings had safety to any extent possible, essentials of life and, later, opportunity.

Largely Catholic Timor’s 1975 colonial abandonment

by Portugal brought invasion from U.S./Western-backed “anti-communist” Indonesia,

and bloody, oppressive decades of factional rebellions; a widely publicized 1991 massacre in Santa Cruz cemetery and broad unrest in the capital, Dili, Rania’s home city, set the stage for harrowing upheavals for her family and most others, climaxing in a world push for orderly independence and elections. In 1999, when she was 16 years old, the family had to run for their lives, seeking refuge from rampaging soldiers who were burning homes and killing people; the fleeing older men hid in the mountains; women and children took sanctuary in a church gym but eventually U.N. supervised elections came.

Life improved.

Rania feels a debt to Professor Delaney, who was on the interview panel for a prestigious all-expenses-paid national East Timor scholarship to study in the U.S. — 200-plus applied for three spots. Delaney pushed to have Rania placed at Saint Michael’s, which Rania considers the best thing that could have happened: Fluent in several languages already, including Tetum, Bahasa Indonesia, Portuguese, and Hakka

Chinese, she now has mastery of English through Saint Michael’s studies, has become a residential leader in international campus housing, and excels as an International Studies major. She loves skiing and “perfect” Vermont, calling it “my second home.”

“I think there’s an opportunity for a woman president or prime minister in my country,” she says. “On Facebook if I complain about policies, my friends tease me — they say ‘OK, Miss Minister, come back and change that!’”

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The

D

agan Loisel, a geneticist by training, is passionate about his work.

“My prediction is that we will see a great deal of genetic variation,” says Loisel.

“And genetic variations indicate changes in the coding sequences of proteins.

Genes fight viruses. So a species with many genetic variations may be more After doing his able to fight disease.” Researchers target graduate work on the DNA of the pathogens — they baboons in Africa, Loisel turned to humans, take liver and spleen samples and extract with post-doctorate work on asthma. “I the DNA of the virus. They also look wanted to continue to study mammals,” he for antibodies in the blood. says, surrounded by photos of wild cats and baboons. When he came to Vermont, The technology used to study gene Loisel got samples from bobcat carcasses sequencing is changing rapidly. “We’ve collected from hunting, trapping, and gone,” says Loisel, “from taking 20 years roadkill by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife to sequence a genome to one month

Populations with a high rate of genetic diversity (like baboons) have a greater chance of developing mutations to resist disease. Has natural selection played a role in genetic diversity? Can we connect that evolution to disease resistance and health?

Loisel envisions enormous possibilities in other realms like social justice. Every virus in wildlife has the potential to become a human virus. We are big, but vulnerable, mammals.

We have vaccines, he explains, but the number one cause of immune deficiency

Beauty of Diversity An Interview with Dagan Loisel

by Susan Salter Reynolds

Department. “I’m not a big fan of destructive sampling,” he says with a shy grin. He began keeping track of the health of various populations. The lab freezer on the 3rd floor of Saint Michael’s Cheray Science Hall contains 300 muscle samples from across the state — cats of different ages, sizes, and regions. Using these samples, students make a map of their genetic variation. “Within any population there are variations affecting, among other things, the immune system,” he explains. How much genetic diversity is there in bobcats in Vermont? Is there a genetic variation that is important for fighting disease?

“Felines provide a great model for studying viral pathogens in humans. What is the first line of defense in felines against pathogens?” he asks. Bobcats, apparently, will eat anything, so these samples contain pathogens from mice, rabbits, squirrels, and many other delicacies.

and $1,500.” Humans are easy — their genome has been sequenced. But bobcats don’t have that scaffolding.

Loisel recently received a grant to study pathogens and parasites in wild cats at Colorado State University, where he will learn new genetic sequencing techniques that will allow researchers at Saint Michael’s to get definitive answers.

Loisel loves putting undergraduates to work. “Many students are interested in healthcare — they are trying to decide whether to become practitioners or do biomedical research. By conducting research on the complex immune system, students get a good idea of which path they want to choose.”

Genetic variability, he hypothesizes, is important for disease resistance. In other words, diversity will keep us alive. If 5 percent of a population has a resistance allele, there’s hope against a pathogen.

is malnutrition. Poverty, malnutrition, and compromised immune systems are often seen together. What if we could put disease-resistant alleles in people with certain viral disorders? How can we keep ourselves safe? These are the questions that keep Loisel deeply engaged in his work.

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AS GOES V SAINT MICHAEL’S ALUMNI

by Mark Tarnacki 16

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fter his November 2016 election victory, Vermont’s new Republican Governor Phil Scott, previously a three-term lieutenant governor and state senator, business owner, and race car driver, named several alumni of Saint Michael’s College to key positions in his new administration.

We invited them to reflect on unique qualities of public service in Vermont, and how Saint Michael’s College prepared them well for that profession.

TOM ANDERSON ’79 Commissioner of Public Safety “It should be no surprise that St. Mike’s alumni are in leadership positions in Vermont and elsewhere — that is what St. Mike’s prepared us for. My career with the U.S. Department of Justice has taken me from Vermont to the Western Pacific, the Deep South, the Caribbean, and our nation’s capital — yet I am drawn back to Vermont. Governor Scott recognizes Vermont’s unique place in our country, that Vermont faces enormous challenges, and the need for all Vermonters of all political stripes to work together and meet these challenges head-on. For productive cooperation of this kind, Vermont has been and will again be a beacon for the nation, and it is exciting and an honor to be part of the team leading Vermont forward. Where does St. Mike’s fit into it all? Together with my family, it is my foundation. It is where I learned to think critically (thanks, Professors Kessel and Carvellas), where I found my spouse, and where many of the values that guide me took root.”

“IT SHOULD BE NO SURPRISE THAT ST. MIKE’S ALUMNI ARE IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS IN VERMONT AND ELSEWHERE — THAT IS WHAT ST. MIKE’S PREPARED US FOR.”

ERMONT… I IN THE STATE CAPITAL 17

JOE FLYNN ’77 Secretary of Transportation “I may not have known it when I walked onto campus in the fall of 1973, but I know today that Saint Michael’s instilled something within me that years later allowed me to understand purpose in life — to see that what we do and how we do it is crucial. After graduating I spent the first decades of my professional life in the private sector as a business manager and I also was a deputy sheriff, but in 2009 I found myself with an opportunity to enter the public sector and work at the Agency of Transportation in the administration of Governor Jim Douglas; then in 2012, Governor Peter Shumlin asked me to go to the Department of Public Safety, where I stayed for nearly five years. When Governor Scott was elected, I felt fortunate to be asked to serve as his transportation secretary.

Having found government service rather late in my professional life, I have been impressed by the talent and dedication of people I work with, and I find it gratifying to serve my native state of Vermont. I’ve come to realize that while the private sector was very good to me for decades, public service — at least as I have experienced it in Vermont — feeds a true sense of purpose, and that is something I learned to value at Saint Michael’s.”

“SAINT MICHAEL’S INSTILLED SOMETHING WITHIN ME THAT YEARS LATER ALLOWED ME TO UNDERSTAND PURPOSE IN LIFE — TO SEE THAT WHAT WE DO AND HOW WE DO IT IS CRUCIAL.”

AS GOES VERMONT

“ONE OF THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON MY CAREER WAS BECOMING CAPTAIN OF ST. MIKE’S FIRE & RESCUE, WHICH ALLOWED ME TO APPLY CLASSROOM KNOWLEDGE TO REAL-WORLD SETTINGS.”

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CHRISTOPHER HERRICK ’88 Deputy Commissioner of Public Safety “One distinct advantage to working in public safety in Vermont is that we all know each other, with only about 600,000 people in the state: I know most of the fire chiefs in the state, a lot of folks in law enforcement and the EMS world, and those in local government. When you go up to the Legislature, you have access to folks, you can talk to people, so it’s not as remote when you’re trying to manage issues. That small-community feel and accessibility is like St. Mike’s. One of the biggest influences on my career was becoming captain of Saint Michael’s Fire and Rescue, which allowed me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings with opportunities for making life-and-death decisions, working in crisis situations and managing people in those situations. That prepares you well for the real world because you’re able to decipher what’s really a crisis and what isn’t, since you’ve already experienced those situations. My Psychology major advisor Barry Krikstone was a close mentor who advised me to follow my passion for public service.

After graduating I worked for Howard Community Services and was on the South Hero Volunteer Fire Department.

While I enjoyed that, I had the opportunity to have a career in the fire service and became the first chief of the state HAZMAT response team, then director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. All of these things fit into the passion that was developed at Saint Michael’s Fire and Rescue. My office wall has a photo of me on an 85-foot aerial ladder that St. Mike’s Fire once had.

It reminds me where I came from.”

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TED BRADY ’00 Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Community Development “Many Saint Michael’s graduates are drawn to careers in service to their communities. I’m not surprised this long purple line of dedicated individuals runs through Governor Scott’s administration. The governor had no political litmus test when hiring his team. My interview with the governor reminded me a lot of my interview for my last job in U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy’s office, with a focus on how best to create more opportunities for Vermonters.

The governor’s focus on Vermont, and not politics, manifests itself in the five St. Mike’s grads in his extended cabinet: a former President Bush-appointed U.S. attorney, a successful entrepreneur, a former Governor Douglas administration official, a career public safety expert, and me, a former Obama appointee. This type of political amnesty encourages a more qualified group of candidates to apply, encourages healthy internal debate within the team, and sends a message to Vermonters that the administration puts Vermont values ahead of politics. I’m hopeful this chemistry helps address Vermont’s shrinking workforce, helps to grow Vermont’s rural communities, and rebrands Vermont as a great place to both work and play. I hope to play a part in making Vermont’s economy grow and diversify so that every Saint Michael’s graduate has the same opportunity I had — a chance to graduate, stay in Vermont, land a great job, and raise a family in one of the healthiest and most vibrant communities in the country.”

“I HOPE TO PLAY A PART IN MAKING VERMONT’S ECONOMY GROW AND DIVERSIFY SO THAT EVERY SAINT MICHAEL’S GRADUATE HAS THE SAME OPPORTUNITY I HAD.”

AS GOES VERMONT

“THE QUALITIES THAT SAINT MICHAEL’S GRADUATES POSSESS ARE QUALITIES OF THOSE WHO BUILD STRONG COMMUNITIES.”

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LINDSAY HILL KURRLE ’93 Commissioner of Labor “One word to me describes the appeal of both Vermont and Saint Michael’s: community. People are drawn to the College and to the state because of their strong sense of community, which is defined as a network of social and economic relationships, interacting in a place. In both cases here, we’re talking about places where people are good and kind, hardworking and honest, where diversity and heritage are celebrated, and where people treat their neighbors with dignity and respect. The qualities that Saint Michael’s graduates possess are qualities of those who build strong communities. It’s no surprise that Governor Scott would look to like-minded individuals to join him in his efforts to grow the economy, make Vermont more affordable, and protect the vulnerable. Vermonters can show Americans how to move forward by putting people first. Vermonters do this by investing in their youth, supporting local businesses, and protecting their natural resources. At the Vermont Department of Labor, I have challenged my staff to think differently about the way we solve problems, to put our customers first, and to improve day after day. We are not always going to agree on how to accomplish our goals, but, when we disagree, we must respectfully disagree. Vermonters and Americans are still reeling from a presidential campaign that left us feeling unsettled because of the onslaught of unflattering behavior.

Now more than ever, it’s critical that we appreciate those who support us, forgive those who have hurt us, and help those who need us.”

Bringing It Back to Bogotá

by Susan Salter Reynolds

and the soccer coach… I was determined to get in!” York was accepted to St. Mike’s his sophomore year. On his first day of soccer practice at the College, York met fellow soccer player Ken O’Toole ’00, who was adopted from the same orphanage.

“We even looked alike!” York says. “We were best friends and teammates for three years.”

York, a Business major, was determined not to have a business career just yet, but to “stay young” by chasing his soccer dreams. He graduated St. Mike’s in 2001 and went to Barcelona to try to play soccer professionally, but his attempts were unsuccessful.

In 2003 he went to Los Angeles, where he worked at an accounting firm. In 2007, he created his first business in San Francisco — an outsourced accounting firm for venture capital funds.

In 2009 York pivoted his career from financial services to tech startups. “I was young and in Silicon Valley… I felt the urge to stop number crunching and get into startups.” His first tech startup was a social mobile app for sports fans. For this startup, he raised $3 million, but ultimately ended up running out of money and had to shut down the company.

Brian York ’01 welcoming a new truck driver to Liftit.co, his latest “Uber for cargo” startup, based in Bogotá, Colombia.

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rian York ’01 had founded and invested in over 30 startups before leaving Silicon Valley for Bogotá to start Liftit.co, a new startup that is like Uber for cargo. York was born in Bogotá, Colombia, so this is a kind of homecoming. “This is an opportunity to meet my biological family, learn the language, and get to know Bogotá,” York says.

York was adopted from an orphanage there called FANA and was raised in Norwell, Massachusetts. York initially wasn’t accepted at Saint Michael’s College, and he ended up attending Plymouth State University his first year, but he was determined to study and play soccer at St. Mike’s. “I studied hard, and continued to visit Saint Michael’s to talk to admissions

“It feels good to come home and provide jobs.”

After the failure, York went on to launch two successful startups, and he also founded a venture capital fund, Bassin Ventures, from which he invested in over 30 tech startups in the U.S. In the background of our phone conversation, York’s 1-yearold son babbles happily. “I believe Colombia will be one of the fastest-growing countries for tech startups,” York says.

“The Colombian tech ecosystem is very new — there’s a ton of opportunities here!” York has been able to raise over $1 million for his new Colombian venture, which has allowed him to hire 20 employees. “It feels good to come home and provide jobs,” he says.

York is committed to teaching the next generation of entrepreneurs. “Most schools don’t teach entrepreneurship,” he says. For the past five years, York has encouraged and mentored several SMC grads. “They’d crash on my couch in San Francisco,” he says happily. “And I’d tell them, ‘you have to be willing to bet on yourself. You have to be super-persistent.

You have to put yourself in the right place at the right time.’ ”

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ndira Evora has a big decision to make.

And the good news is that she’ll have plenty of help making it.

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Evora came to this country from Cape Verde when she was 4. Now that country’s National Basketball League wants her back. Growing up in Massachusetts, Evora was often the only female on her Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) team. When she got older, she played for the New Hampshire Rivals.

Saint Michael’s head coach Shannon Kynoch M’15

team meant she had 11 new friends. Immediately. But one in particular stuck out.

“I met Tomi in the gym lobby. She tried to shake my hand but I just gave her a hug. We’ve been roommates and best friends ever since.

If someone sees me walking alone on campus, they’ll ask, ‘where’s Tomi?’”

Tomi Akinpetide ’17 remembers that day well.

“I instantly knew we’d be friends,” she says. Akinpetide was born in Australia. Her parents are from Nigeria.

Her brother played basketball and came to the U.S. in an AAU league.

Akinpetide and her sister also played in AAU leagues and went to Florida when Tomi was 12 and her sister was 16. Coach Kynoch discovered Tomi Justin McKenzie and Danny Divis, playing for Rice the subjects of “The Whole Athlete” Memorial High in the Summer 2016 edition of the School in South Magazine, were awarded the NCAA’s Burlington and Hockey Humanitarian Award. They recruited her. are also scheduled to throw out the first pitch at Fenway park on Vermont Their senior year Day, Saturday, August 5. at Saint Michael’s, both Evora and Read the latest about McKenzie and Akinpetide were Divis at smcvt.edu/magazine. captains of the St. Mike’s women’s team. “Tomi knows if I’m not giving discovered her at an AAU it my all,” says Evora. “We can tournament in Connecticut be honest with each other. and invited her up to take a The team sees this and they look at Saint Michael’s. feel they can come to us, on “Everyone was so welcoming,” and off the court. We model Evora recalls. Being on the

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true friendship.

It really cuts down on the drama!”

“We’ve created a culture that is inclusive,” says Akinpetide.

Coach Kynoch agrees. “Their friendship is contagious — it creates a safe space — and they bring real, drama-free leadership.

This team has the least drama of any team I’ve coached for nine years!”

She continues, “We always encourage players to room together. But these two are like one beating heart!

They complete each other’s sentences. When you go out to dinner, they order the same meal! It’s a unique bond. These young women are strong, confident, understanding leaders. I asked Indi, ‘did I teach you anything about life?’ The moving way she said ‘yes’ made me cry.”

After graduation, Akinpetide will be going back to Australia. She’s interested in pursuing a master’s degree in clinical psychology and plans to play basketball on the side.

Evora is torn between going to see the place she was born and playing on the Cape Verde National Team for the summer (and maybe into the fall if they win the tournament) and starting a job,

possibly in airport security.

Akinpetide has an opinion on this: “I want the best for her. My advice is to go back to Cape Verde and play. Then take the job!”

Both women swear the friendship will not fade away.

“There’s Skype and WhatsApp,” says Akinpetide. Coach Kynoch is confident they’ll stay friends. “Athletes struggle to find their identity after playing on teams,” she says.

“But the relationships they form endure. I tell them that I’m getting married next year and two of my bridesmaids were my teammates.”

Unique Bond: TOMI AKINPETIDE ’17 AND INDIRA EVORA ’17

by Susan Salter Reynolds

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auren Mercik ’13 knew that she wanted to be in Vermont.

The Connecticut native came to Saint Michael’s in 2009, after spending childhood summers on Lake Champlain, and returned to her parents’ home after graduation. But her eye was always on Vermont.

by Lauren N. Read Illustrations: Dennis Healy ’96

“I felt at home,” Mercik said.

While Mercik’s plan was to make the Green Mountain State her home, many of her fellow Purple Knights feel differently. Seventy-five percent of graduating seniors across Vermont are either unsure or are not staying in Vermont after graduation, according to a 2015 report from the Vermont Department of Labor.

Why do students want to leave Vermont? Is it a lack of jobs; an overwhelmed feeling when facing student debt, or just a desire to return home?

The Vermont Job Climate 25

“Are there opportunities for those who want to stay?” asked Letovsky.

“There is a very powerful economic force called ‘how do I pay rent and face up to paying for student loans at the same time?’” Robert Letovsky, professor of business, said.

“For some of them, that’s an overwhelming prospect.”

A recent article in the Burlington Free Press included some interesting statistics:

“The Department of Labor’s monthly snapshot of the Vermont job market reports unemployment continues to be well below the U.S. average.

At 3 percent, Vermont’s March unemployment rate was tied with Maine for sixth lowest in the nation. Within New England, only New Hampshire had a lower rate than Vermont and only Connecticut was above the 4.5 percent U.S. rate. While unemployment is low, Vermont has not been creating jobs as fast as the nation.”

POST-GRADUATE PLANS

One of the main topics Mercik kept circling back to when discussing her decision to stay in Vermont was the fact that it felt like home.

“My senior year at St. Mike’s I knew I wanted to stay here,” Mercik said. “The atmosphere, the people…everyone is relaxed and happy. The way of life is different, slower paced.”

While Vermont, and Chittenden County in particular, were the end goal for the behavior analyst, she faced the same problem a lot of her peers faced: did the opportunities for her exist?

After discovering that only one college in the state offered the master’s degree program she was interested in pursuing, Mercik returned to Connecticut.

“To save money, I went back home to do my master’s. That

T H E V E R M O N T J O B C L I M AT E

made sense for me,” Mercik said. “My plan the whole time was to get my master’s and come back here.”

Mercik made her way back to Vermont, making the move to Colchester in 2016, and now works as an autism behavior consultant for Northwestern Counseling in Saint Albans.

business and professional services. The additional 4,300 jobs in that part of the economy are one quarter of all the new jobs in Vermont.

Business services encompasses a broad category of companies, including firms

the University of Vermont and Champlain College — still hit the road following Commencement.

It is not a new problem, this exodus of young people following graduation. Jim

Professor Letovsky said. “It’s a wonderful place.”

What the Department of Labor called “the Vermont Experience” accounted for a large chunk of why respondents wanted to stay in the state after graduation; 28 percent said that influenced them the most.

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But not everyone is so lucky.

“Vermont is a special place,” Douglas said. “It is a place where the quality of life is unsurpassed. We’ve been deemed the ‘greenest state’ in the country. All else being equal, why wouldn’t someone want to live here?”

“Students are daunted by the economics that they are facing, so they will go home because the safety button — ‘I’ll live rent free’ — is there,” Professor Letovsky said. “They have not really forced themselves to confront what they are doing after graduation.

“Once they are gone, they’re gone.”

One of the main reasons that students leave after graduation is that they believe there are no job opportunities for them if they stay.

Job availability, or lack thereof, was the reason that 37 percent of respondents gave for leaving Vermont, according to the Department of Labor survey.

“There is not a huge inventory of job opportunities,” Professor Letovsky said. “There are some, but for someone for whom the clock is ticking…

I think that’s a risky play.”

The Free Press article did cite major areas of growth: “Over the last six years the biggest growth has come from

specializing in law, accounting, engineering, bookkeeping and payroll services, consulting, advertising, and similar organizations that provide highly specialized and technical services. Average wages are very high so its growth is a good sign about the economy’s health.

“Another quarter of all the new jobs,” wrote Art Woolf in the Free Press article, “has come in the healthcare industry, another high-paying sector. Growth in healthcare jobs shouldn’t surprise anyone given that we continue to devote an ever-larger share of gross domestic product to healthcare.”

Despite the numbers, graduates — who are competing with students from

Douglas, who served as governor of Vermont from 2003 to 2011, recounts that it was something his administration tried to tackle.

“The fact that a student has committed to being in Vermont for four years is a foot in the door, and if we can involve students in the community during their college years, then perhaps they will feel comfortable staying afterward,” Douglas, who teaches at Middlebury College, said. “Then comes the challenging part, because this is not an inexpensive place to live.”

So why would they want to stay?

“I am not saying they leave here with a smile on their face,”

That experience, which Mercik credits to the willingness of people to be open and helpful in every community interaction, along with the beauty of the state and the availability of outdoor activities, is often pointed to as a reason that people want to be in Vermont.

“I told them that if you think there is a chance you can be happy here, then why not try it,” Mercik said. “If you don’t like it, you can find something else. You can move on.”

LIFE AFTER COLLEGE

With the state itself providing such a draw, what can Saint Michael’s College do to help the students who want to stay local?

A new Life After College program could provide the answer to this question.

of students that we have are highly sought after. We just need to be more visible.”

Professor Letovsky agrees and is hoping to see the faculty join the work of the new Life After College program and help expand their connections for their students.

“As a faculty we could do more to deepen our contacts with the local community,” Letovsky said. “All of us have to do whatever we can to bring local businesses, nonprofits, people we know in government, to campus.”

While the goal of the new direction for career services is not to keep graduates in Vermont, with a new focus on internships and co-ops

outside campus the College’s career services leaders hope that it will be an added benefit.

“Burlington and Vermont are wide open for those opportunities to make connections,” Irvine said.

“This community has been outspoken about wanting to keep young people here. They are trying to ‘walk the walk.’ I think we are in a great position to say we want to partner with you to keep young people here.”

The beauty and culture of Vermont has convinced at least one person.

“This is definitely my place,” Mercik said. “I feel happier, I feel like I really do enjoy my job. I will be here forever.”

T H E V E R M O N T J O B C L I M AT E

After looking at a variety an emphasis on preparing of studies on the state students to step into postof higher education, what graduate work life with employers are looking for their skills already in place. in new employees, and what the College can provide, “Our focus has been on Saint Michael’s is remaking preparing them for jobs and its career services, alumni, their experiences after and academic advising college,” Irvine said. “There program. is so much that is done differently today. It is a whole “Ideally this whole concept different process for our of academic services, students; they are moving career services, and alumni into a different work world.” [combining] is wrapping a village around the student,” Part of the new plan is to said Angela Irvine, director expand internship opportufor sponsored programs and nities and offer a co-op foundation relations. “Their program — right now focuseducation here doesn’t just ed in accounting — that happen in the classroom.” will allow students to get out into the community.

As part of Life After College, everything from on-campus “Our students are highly work-study to internships regarded in Vermont,” Irvine to professional development said. “Their reputation, their will be updated, with engagement, and the type

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SNOW QUEEN

by Susan Salter Reynolds

J

oan Wry ’79 is a Vermonter.

state’s founders, leader of the Green Mountain Boys, and brother to Ethan. “Land was everything,” she says. “And that family worked so hard to hold onto it. There is no question of selling that land.”

In the fall semester, Professor Wry teaches a senior seminar on the sublime, and for her, that pretty much means Vermont. “We read Wordsworth, Shelley, Thoreau, and others.

Although the concept of ‘mountaintop sublimity’ And Wry has her own deep connections to place is certainly not specific to Vermont, it’s not hard — her father, John Reiss, was also an English for the students to make the transition between professor at Saint Michael’s. Her sister, Christina the text and their immediate environment!”

Reiss, is the first female judge to serve in the U.S. District of Vermont. Wry and her sister both Wry also teaches a firstgraduated from Saint year seminar on snow.

Michael’s. “When I was Students discover the art a student,” she recalls, and science of alpine “being from Vermont crystals and they meet was sometimes Vermont snowmakers at disparaged. We were Smugglers’ Notch. “The called names like snowmakers have a real ‘wombat’ and ‘woodpassion for what they do, chuck.’ But that has and a kind of pride in changed.” their work that is very different from academic Now, students drawn to pride. For some students, Vermont, the environthis is their first introducment, the character, and tion to “real” Vermonters, the culture, face a long known for their huchallenge when it comes mility and practicality. to making a living in the state. “The school does a good job of promoting Both of these classes, as well as a class on Vermont values,” says Wry. “And students are Vermont writers, help students become truly drawn to the lifestyle — the farmers’ markets, aware of where they go to school, though, the outdoor recreation, the artisanal economy.” as Wry says, “It’s hard to resist the draw of place in a setting like this.”

Vermont is home, and yet, Wry laughs, because she was born in Indiana when her father was As we talk, Wry sees budding trees outside a student at Notre Dame, she may not qualify as her office window, which faces the courtyard a native. ‘When I first met my husband’s family, area outside Cheray Science Hall. Wry and the first question they asked was ‘Where were her husband, who has worked in the Vermont you born?’ Wry has a great deal of respect for the ski industry for 30 years, live and raised their wisdom that comes from their connection to three girls on her husband’s family’s ancestral the land. “It is a rare thing,” she says. “You know land — once a 350-acre farm on Lake exactly what their values are. They walk,” Champlain now divided among family members she quotes Saint Teresa of Avila, “in the truth who maintain the farmland designation under of who they are.”

Vermont’s Current Use Policy. The family was part of Vermont’s first census, in 1790, and purchased the land from Ira Allen, one of the To read more on Joan Wry’s first-year seminar course on snow visit smcvt.edu/magazine.

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“Everyone experiences both a leadership role and being part of a team.�

McCabe’s Army

by Susan Salter Reynolds

“I

liked bugs when I was 12,” Declan McCabe admits, remembering the good life on the River Shannon, which runs between the east and west halves of Ireland. “My dad built a naturalists’ lab in the backyard.” While the other kids played soccer, McCabe dug in the mud. “Most 10-year-olds are up for anything; at least until sixth grade!”

And yet, somehow, McCabe commandeers a small army of high school and college students (and teachers) to collect data on a variety of issues around Vermont. It’s citizen science and it’s big science. McCabe’s army collects samples from streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes and sends in data on bug species, suspended solids, phosphorus, and who-knows-what-all.

On the day we talk, McCabe is particularly proud of his teams’ work studying the interaction between insects and the environment. They’ve created a phone app and an EPSCoR site — a field guide for brooks and streams that includes photographs, insect names, and other data.

“I’m so happy about what we are doing,” he says, and the 12-yearold who liked bugs emerges. It’s easy to imagine how accessible he is to his students. “In the ecological field,” he says, “there is a general lack of appreciation for naturalists — observation has been replaced by mathematics. I should have been a Victorian naturalist.” He grins.

McCabe appreciates the fact that he can write short natural history pieces and a column that runs in the magazine Natural Woodlands, as well as professional papers. And the courses in environmental science and ecology at Saint Michael’s all emphasize hands-on fieldwork. McCabe wouldn’t have it any other way. “College is about exploring,” he says.

Students set camera traps and study coyotes, bobcats, gray and red foxes, and other animals, but McCabe is, as he puts it, “an insect guy.”

McCabe came to the States in 1986 as a nature study instructor at a summer camp. He studied aquatic insects, got a Ph.D., and eventually came to teach at Saint Michael’s College.

Science McCabe-style is full of life lessons. “Everyone has a question,” he says of his students. “And they take ownership of that question.

Everyone experiences both a leadership role and being part of a team.”

McCabe writes a lot of grants, most of which fund scholarship.

“I’d rather the money go to grants than antiques — equipment that will be obsolete before you know it. I have nets older than my students! Glass tiles, alcohol swabs, nets, and forceps — that’s all I need,” he declares.

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“I DON’T KNOW WHEN I HAVE FELT SUCH A SPIRIT OF PLACE, AND I MEAN THAT… THIS IS A POWERFUL PLACE THAT HAS A DEEP TRADITION IN YOUR CAMPUS MINISTRY AND THE EDMUNDITES; GLOBALLY, IN FRANCE, AND NOW VERMONT.” — Terry Tempest Williams, internationally celebrated environmental author, activist, and defender of America’s wild places, speaking at Saint Michael’s this spring

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“BEAUTY STILL STOPS ME IN MY TRACKS.” — Loung Ung ’93, author, First They Killed My Father

P R O F I L E S O F I M PA C T 34

Bearing Witness

by Allison Scavotto

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his spring, Seth Clark ’18 had the opportunity of a lifetime.

The rising senior, a political science major from Porter, ME, packed his bags and left home for Mongolia. His mission? Exploring the “identity crisis” felt among members of a traditionally nomadic nation that is industrializing.

Clark knew that witnessing the struggles of a less privileged country firsthand would “bring about far more understanding than reading about it in a textbook.” Given the significant travel expense this research would cost his family, a scholarship seemed like the only way to have such a dramatic and important growth experience.

Brian Lacey ‘72 received an honorary degree from Saint Michael’s during the College’s 2017 commencement.

Enter the Brian Lacey International Fellowship in Social Justice. Created to encourage students who have demonstrated superior academic achievement and a deeper understanding and appreciation of social-justice issues, this merit-and

Seth Clark ’18 in Bayanhongor aimag, near the town of Galuut in Mongolia pictured above with his Mongolian host father and to the right with his host brother. need-based award is presented worse, completely oblivious.” to one student each semester Clark is already searching who has shown motivation to for ways to help others apply his or her academic avoid turning a blind eye. skills to the betterment of “The education I have humanity. The fellowship is gained can increase awaredesigned for study both ness, not only for me, within the U.S. and worldwide. but for the people back home with whom I can share my The student recipient for knowledge.” When he the spring 2017 semester was returns to campus in the fall, Clark, who used the award Clark hopes to share his “to arrange an internship in a experience in Mongolia and very remote part of Mongolia his newly gained knowledge and do research that would with the Saint Michael’s not have been possible othercommunity. wise.” “The most important benefit,” Clark explains, “is But that’s just the beginning. that I am able to understand the realities people face in Looking ahead to a career other parts of the world. In the in the foreign service, Clark United States, we can often be explains that his semester desensitized to the challenges in Mongolia will be invalufacing other people — or able as he moves toward achieving his goals.

The Brian Lacey International Fellowship in Social Justice is funded through a generous gift from Brian Lacey ’72, president of Lacey Entertainment, a New York-based worldwide television marketing, production, and distribution company. The fellowship, created in 2006, has had an enormous impact on students in prior semesters who have traveled to the far corners of the world to study post-conflict transformation, globalization, and political ecology (along with other areas of study).

Lacey’s hope is “that these talented and enthusiastic students take these experiences back to their communities and help foster a better world for all of us.”

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Expanded online content: read about previous Fellowship recipients and their important work since 2006 at smcvt.edu/magazine.

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The Original Campus Farmers: How the Edmundites Came to Vermont

by Mark Tarnacki

For many decades Saint Michael’s College had its own dairy operation right on campus, as seen in this image from the archives. The products helped keep everybody fed in the College dining hall and provided some income.

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T H E O R I G I N A L C A M P U S FA R M E R S

B farmer.

y all appearances, the most important job at Saint Michael’s College for its early decades before World War II wasn’t president or professor or even priest, but

“The president would be one of the priests from France who taught classes, but the farmer had his own house and a dairy barn and was the only full-time employee because he fed everybody,” said Rev. Joseph McLaughlin ’66, SSE recently.

in southern U.S. and overseas missions, or for spiritual direction and accompaniment, as in post-Revolution 1800s France, where the first Edmundites preached missions for the unchurched masses, and as at Saint Michael’s after Burlington’s then-bishop John Stephen Michaud invited them to found a college in 1904. Their noteworthy business sense and adaptability secured a gem of a college site on the Kelly farm property: “This geographical site with the mountains and the river in view of the lake is a spectacular acquisition,” says Fr. McLaughlin.

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Fr. McLaughlin and two history-minded brother priests from the Society of Saint Edmund — native Vermonters Rev. Marcel Rainville ’67, SSE, and Rev. Richard Berube ’66, SSE — mused together about the politics of church and state from France to the Americas that have imprinted this distinctly Vermont place called Saint Michael’s College since their small religious order founded it in 1904.

For them, the campus-farmer story exemplifies the humble simplicity of the Society of Saint Edmund’s historical place in Vermont and on campus, and its general manner of being in the world: Edmundites work as equals alongside laity Fr. Maurice Boucher, SSE and nonbelievers, mutually supporting one another in community and rejecting the worst aspects of clericalism and church hierarchy that afflicted France at the turn of the 20th century, when the resulting harsh backlash sent Edmundites and other religious packing to America.

Today’s Edmundites try to live as their founders did, in a tradition of gentle but determined evangelization through quiet example or persuasive “mission” work, all predicated on meeting souls wherever they are and encouraging people to make the most of their gifts.

Edmundites typically have gone to places that have the greatest need — be it a need for basics like food and shelter as

Today’s members say that, like France’s population in the earliest Edmundite days of the mid-1800s, the population of a modern college, even a Catholic one like Saint Michael’s, is widely “unchurched,” presenting a worthy mission as the society sees it.

Rev. Stephen Hornat ’72, SSE, Edmundite superior general, says the society always has embraced a closeness to the land and its people wherever they have landed, through a history that tracks from France to Canada to the U.S. and remote missions in the U.S. South and West, and overseas in England, Switzerland, and Venezuela.

Part and parcel of that history is square acceptance of hardships if they come and willingness to move on if need be. Like the old campus farmer, today’s priests and brothers recognize the transitory passing of seasons, the unpredictability of yields, and the need on occasion to plow and reseed, whether in fields, religious congregations, or colleges.

While members are cautious about undue attachments to places or possessions given their faith and history, they also have not shied from enduring commitments, as demonstrated at a recent campus presentation when Edmundite leaders vigorously embraced their continued close ties to Saint Michael’s in announcing plans to move a few members now posted elsewhere back to campus, and to more deeply

entrench the youngest members into the College as the society readies for celebrating the 175th anniversary of its founding starting August 15.

Even so, they understand that in the long term, laity may need to take up more and more of what Edmundites started so well at Saint Michael’s, as at other onetime Edmundite sites, given the aging membership, modest recruitment, and detachment from active Catholic mission of a solid majority of faculty in recent decades.

None of this mitigates the enthusiasm of Deacon Michael Carter ’12, a campus minister and native of greater Burlington who is scheduled for September ordination as an Edmundite priest. Carter already has become a popular and dynamic preacher at Masses in the chapel, and students seem to be lining up for conversations about spiritual or life questions with the 27-year-old. He has wellformed ideas about what makes his home state and region distinct and appealing, giving it natural symbiosis with Edmundites.

Carter says he appreciates “seeing students grow and develop, listening to their inner life and struggles and concerns, being present with people where they are — that sense of searching that comes from Catholic sensibility to how someone fits into the world.” Fr. Hornat puts it this way: “We’re bridge-builders between different communities, and that’s something we bring to the College with our ministry of accompaniment.”

Seeds might be germinating and cycles renewing: Fr. Rainville finds the “unabashed” serious Catholic faith lives of a growing core group of students he observes regularly at Saint Michael’s “stunning” in these times, and a cover article in the prestigious Jesuit magazine America in April told of a Catholic revival in France among many young professionals.

Fr. Rainville, who will lead the 175th anniversarycelebrating trip to France in A group of the College’s founding Edmundites shortly after the 2018, said, “Every place we College’s founding in 1904, outside the original Kelly farmhouse ever had in France we that they expanded into Founder’s Hall not long after. lost, and we have nothing there now.” Examples include Mont-Saint-Michel and the ancient Pontigny “I think Vermont in general is Abbey and other schools and not a place that puts on airs — parishes. The Edmundites people are pretty down-tostill have a small presence earth and don’t carry a lot of in Selma, AL, and Venezuela preconceived notions about (where Rainville long other people, and being so worked), and hope those small, we’re used to people can carry on, though they’ve from other states spending laid deep groundwork for time with us, so we’ve grown laypeople to share and carry to be welcoming,” he says. on work should the society “My hometown of Burlington has appeal for college students not be able to. “All those places we left, they’re still going and with its arts and alternative scenes. Another Vermont thing is other people picked them up,” Fr. Berube said. “It could be respect of the outdoors and environment, and we see environa sign of the vow of poverty … but to me it says we gain somemental studies growing here and a farming renaissance in thing by place, but don’t depend on place for who we are.”

Vermont — people see that as a viable lifestyle for themselves.”

He likes that the location of a former garden founded by the late Edmundite Rev. John Stankiewicz, SSE, is now a thriving To see more photos on the Edmundite farmers, visit permaculture operation that exemplifies “how to care for our smcvt.edu/magazine. common home,” as Pope Francis has encouraged.

“We’re bridge-builders between different communities, and that’s something we bring to the College with our ministry of accompaniment.”

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Reflections from My Favorite Study Spot

by Kim McCray ’00

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To read Kim McCray’s full story visit smcvt.edu/magazine.

limbing the staircase to my favorite study spot, the thirdfloor mezzanine at Durick Library, felt familiar and routine with one exception.

I was no longer the undergraduate student I used to be. I walked to my prized table — the last one on the left with the gorgeous view of a snow-capped Mount Mansfield. As I sat down to take in the 22 books I had pulled from the stacks on adult learning, I caught the glances of several undergraduates at the neighboring tables preparing for semester exams. Minus the personal laptops and cell phones, these students reminded me of my classmates and me more than 16 years ago.

I logged countless hours at the library during my undergraduate career — my friends usually came to the library when they needed to find me. In spite of this fact, if someone told me back when I was an undergraduate that I would find myself as a doctoral candidate in 2016, I probably would have laughed in his or her face.

Master’s maybe, but Ph.D.?! When I reached the 15th anniversary of my SMC graduation in 2015, I stepped back to think.

While my love of learning was manifested early in life, it blossomed at Saint Michael’s College and set me on a course that shaped who I am today.

Joseph Cyprien Bonhomme From St. Michael’s to Basutoland, Africa

by Shirley LaVigne-Ahern, M.Ed ’86

The year is 1905. The American flag has 45 stars, Theodore Roosevelt is beginning his second term as president, the Institute of Musical Art (now the Julliard School) is founded in NYC, Wilbur Wright makes aviation history flying the Wright Flyer III for 24 miles, and a 16-year-old boy named Joseph becomes the 72nd student to enroll at the newly established Saint Michael’s (not yet a college), in Winooski, VT. Unknown to Joseph, this would be the beginning of an experience that would influence his life’s career choice.

Joseph Cyprien Bonhomme was born on January 29, 1889, in St. Camille de Wotton, Quebec, Canada.

He spent his early years in his homeland, but in 1901 his family emigrated to Burlington, VT, where his parents were seeking a better life for their children. The Bonhomme family lived in a deeply spiritual, but financially challenged home. Hardships followed the family with their move to Burlington. At the age of 12 Joseph went to work to help support his family, but school attendance was

compulsory until the age of 15 so he returned to school.

Recognizing his son’s keen intellect and his potential for helping others, Joseph’s father asked if he would be interested in attending Saint Michael’s school.

Joseph jumped at the chance and at 16 he entered the school, where he was enrolled in the commercial program, finishing his studies in 1906.

After an impressive early career, in 1933, at the age of 44, he was appointed vicar apostolic to Basutoland, Africa (now Lesotho), and was informed that he would be consecrated a bishop of the Roman Catholic Church.

On September 1 of that year, he began a challenging ministry as a missionary in South Africa. Bishop Joseph Bonhomme always felt privileged to have been chosen to lead this mission and never forgot the people of the country that he served. And they never forgot him. At his funeral in 1973 at the age of 84, representatives from the African nation he loved and served were in strong attendance.

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Joseph’s early schooling at Saint Michael’s and the commitment of the Edmundites had a profound effect on his career choice. He never forgot his experience as an early student at Saint Michael’s College, as he writes, “I shall never forget the devotion and the spirit of sacrifice shown by my teachers at St. Michael’s.” He listened to his inner voice and from his humble beginnings as Joseph Cyprien Bonhomme to Most Rev. Joseph Bonhomme, Monseigneur (Bishop) Bonhomme, Vicar Apostolic, Titular Bishop of Tulana, and Bishop Assistant to the

Pontifical Throne, his titles only encouraged him to work more diligently to make the world a better place.

Bishop Bonhomme has been referred to as a talented, colorful, and controversial figure, but to his family he was simply known as “The Bishop.” The Bishop was my third cousin.

For the full text of this remembrance, a link to a video of Basutoland, Africa, and the Bonhomme Project website go to smcvt.edu/magazine.

BOOKS

The Way of the Catechesis: Exploring Our History, Renewing Our Ministry

by Gerard F. Baumbach ’68 (Ave Maria Press)

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Drawing on more than 40 years of experience as a catechist, parish director of religious education, textbook publisher, and founding director of the Echo Program at the University of Notre Dame, Gerard F. Baumbach explores contemporary catechesis in light of its history. The Way of the Catechesis offers a renewed and timely perspective on the vital ministry of catechesis at a pivotal moment in the work of New Evangelization.

Grandfather Knows Best: A Geezer’s Guide to Life, Immaturity, and Learning How to Change Diapers All Over Again by Jerry Zezima ’75 (iUniverse) Jerry Zezima, gives grandfatherly advice to Prince Charles, peddles his granddaughter’s preschool fundraiser, introduces her to the neighborhood ice cream man, and does lots of other fun stuff, both with and without his adorable princess, which may explain why she is more mature than he is. In Grandfather Knows Best, nationally syndicated humorist Zezima writes about the joys of grandparenthood and the things one man will do for the little girl who has captured his heart.

Sharing Books, Talking Science: Exploring Scientific Concepts with Children’s Literature

by Valerie Bang-Jensen and Mark Lubkowitz (Heinemann) Science is everywhere, in everything we do, see, and read. Books — all books — offer possibilities for talk about science in the illustrations and text once you know how to look for them. Sharing Books, Talking Science is an engaging and user-friendly guide that provides practical, real-world understanding of complex scientific concepts using children’s literature. By demonstrating how to work in a very familiar and comfortable teaching context — reading aloud — to address what may be less familiar and comfortable content — scientific concepts — the authors empower teachers to use just about any book in their classroom to help deepen students’ understanding of the world.

A L U M N I A N D

Collateral Trout: A Vermonter’s Angling Memoirs and Fishy Tales by Peter Shea ’69 (Wind Knot Publishing)

Peter Shea of Burlington, VT, recently published his fourth book in as many years. From stories of an early arrest, and experiences with the Lake Champlain Monster, to what happens when you mistake a porcupine for a bear, or what to do when you find human remains, the reader will be entertained with his authentic tales. Shea is co-author of Vermont’s classic trout fishing guides Vermont Trout Streams and The Atlas of Vermont Trout Ponds.

He is author of four other titles: In the Company of Trout; Vermont Trout Ponds; Long Trail Trout; and Vermont’s Trophy Trout Waters.

M U S I C

F A C U L T Y

Kathleen Saville, who holds two Guinness World Records for her achievements, tells a courageous, suspenseful tale of accomplishing the near impossible and rowing with her late husband, Curt Saville, first across the Atlantic Ocean and then across the Pacific — in a 25-foot homemade rowboat. These feats exposed the fault lines in her marriage. Later, when her husband died in a tragic hiking accident in the Egyptian desert, she was able to draw on the inner strength she had developed. In a narrative that conveys the terrors and extraordinary beauty of the high seas, she explores themes of adventure, independence, resilience, living an authentic life, and the difference between courage and foolhardiness.

All Mixed Up: Counterpoint Sings the Music of Pete Seeger by Nathaniel G. Lew, Associate Professor of Music, Director of Choral Activities, and Chair of the Department of Fine Arts This album features an ensemble of 16 singers from around Vermont, and three local instrumentalists playing banjo, guitar, and bass. Nathaniel Lew directed and produced and did two of the arrangements. Many of the other arrangements are by Robert De Cormier.

Of the 18 tracks, about half are songs that Pete Seeger wrote himself: “Where Have All the Flowers Gone,” “If I Had a Hammer,” “Turn Turn Turn,” and the rest are songs that Seeger sang or popularized: “This Land is Your Land,” “Guantanamera,” “Wimoweh.”

BOOKS

OOK

Rowing for My Life: Two Oceans, Two Lives, One Journey by Kathleen Saville ’93 (Arcade Publishing)

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Reunion 2017

by Mark Tarnacki

More than 60 members of the Saint Michael’s College Class of 1967 turned out over Alumni Weekend, June 1-4, to be honored as “Golden Knights’ for their 50th Reunion. They broke records both for attendance by a 50th reunion class and for fundraising — more than $700,000.

Al Castellana ’52 and his wife, Catherine, chat with Carlos Villa and Marie Salinas, both Class of 2018, at the Ice Cream Social.

Angie Armour, director of parent and alumni relations, shared the weekend’s most notable highlights: Alumni of the Year: Kathy Sweeten ’77, Don Slaven ’52, Michael Fucigna ’87, and Amy Murphy Dowd ’92 were all honored for their longstanding volunteerism.

Young Alumnus of the Year is Chris Eldridge ’12 “who has an impressive list of volunteer accomplishments for someone just out five years,” she said. Also, “a beautiful and moving tribute to the College’s fallen alumni heroes at the Military Appreciation Reception was hosted by retired Lt. Colonel Bob Babyok, USAF, class of 1967,” Armour said. “More than 40 alumni veterans celebrating their reunion came to honor the College’s deceased military graduates.”

Over 60 members of the Class of 1967 made it back for Reunion weekend including the graduates in the photo.

Retired Lt. Col. Bob Babyok ’67 emceed this year’s Military Appreciation Reception with over 40 alumni veterans in attendance.

Also speaking at the event was Nicole Talcott ’19 a current AFROTC student.

Flickr gallery of reunion 2017

Bob and Christine Genter, both ’97

at smcvt.edu/magazine.

Members of the Class of ’07.

FROM REUNION 2016 Because we missed sharing photos from last year’s reunion in the summer magazine we have created an online flickr gallery where you can see all the great images, like this bus...or is it a boat? smcvt.edu/magazine

Don Slaven ’52, one of the 2017 Alumni of the Year, kept the crowd laughing at the Welcome Home Celebration

Mike the Knight poses with several runners during a wet 5K race.

The Class of ’52 was all smiles celebrating their classmate Don Slaven at the Welcome Home Celebration (l-r): Jack “Sugar” Whelan, Bill Gilmartin, Don Slaven, Ed Keating and Frank Davis.

Jack “Sugar” Whelan ’52 holds up a birthday sign given to him by Don Slaven with classmate Ed Keating ’52 by his side. Jack turned 90 the week prior to Reunion.

Class of ’87 members catch up under the tent during the BBQ

The 2017 Alumni of the Year (l-r): Chris Eldridge ’12, Michael Fucigna ’87, Kathy Sweeten ’77, Don Slaven ’52, and Amy Murphy Dowd ’92.

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Commencement

by Mark Tarnacki

Gen. Joseph Dunford ’77, chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the Saint Michael’s College graduating Class of 2017 on May 14 that moral courage and a commitment to serving others are essential qualities for “leaders of consequence.”

The College’s 110th Commencement included 456 undergraduates and 30 graduate degree recipients.

Dunford cited courageous moral leadership relating to Saint Michael’s: his 1977 Commencement speaker, the late Maine Sen. Margaret Chase Smith, who took on McCarthyism in the 1950s, and Edmundite Father Maurice Ouellet, who fought for civil rights in Selma, Alabama, during the 1960s.

Sen. Patrick Leahy ‘61 and with his wife, Marcelle, joined Dunford at Saturday’s Baccalaureate in the Chapel with Burlington Bishop Christopher Coyne and a Saturday night dinner for General Dunford and other honorary degree recipients: author/activist Loung Ung ’93, marine researcher Tracy Romano ‘86, global entertainment leader Brian Lacey ’72.

Top academic prizes: Valedictorian, Ashlee Hauble, Brainerd, Minnesota, environmental science major, chemistry/religious studies minors; Katherine Fairbanks Award, Jessica Barnett, Essex, VT, biology major, chemistry/Spanish minors; Fr. Prevel Award, Christopher Holloway, Ashburnham, MA, psychology/ theater majors.

Flickr gallery of commencement 2017 at smcvt.edu/magazine

THE ROUND-UP 2017 ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME UPDATE

by Josh Kessler ’04, Director of Athletic Communications

When the Saint Michael’s Athletic Hall of Fame Committee announced its selections for September’s induction class, the honorees ranged from men who played basketball in the late 1950s to the Hall’s youngest member yet.

On September 16, Paul Barous ’89, C.J. Spirito ’90, Meghan Scalley Fisher ’02, Eileen Mullowney ’12, and the 1957-58 men’s basketball team will all be enshrined during the 29th Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet in the Dion Family Student Center. Details for Alumni and Family Weekend and the Hall of Fame ceremony, including ticket information, will become available in mid-June.

Barous remains one of the top men’s soccer goalkeepers in Northeast-10 Conference history, and landed on the NSCAA All-New England first team as a junior. Barous earned all-league laurels each of his final two seasons, and still holds six school records.

Almost 30 years after graduating, he still ranks third in NE10 history with his .934 save percentage in 1987.

Photo: James Buck

Spirito was the College’s first three-time all-conference male cross-country runner, finishing among the top five at each of his final three NE10 Championships, including a career-high third in 1989, lifting Saint Michael’s to second place. Spirito is still tied for the school record with eight career victories. His partner, Kathy Butts ’89, is a former Purple Knight runner and a current College employee in the Bergeron Wellness Center. Son Miles ’20 recently completed his first year as a student at Saint Michael’s.

One of the top goalkeepers in Saint Michael’s field hockey history, Fisher only learned the position prior to her sophomore season. Fisher was twice named NE10 Goalkeeper of the Year, and landed an NFHCA All-America recognition as a junior. She backstopped the team to its first two NCAA tournaments, and still holds program records for career wins and shutouts.

Her GAA is fourth in NE10 history.

Just the Hall’s fifth first-ballot selection, Mullowney remains one of the College’s most decorated swimmers. Upon graduation, she held 11 school records. Mullowney was an eight-time NE10

All-Conference qualifier and 10-time league champion, and won nearly 90 events in just three seasons of competition.

She was also a key member of a women’s tennis program that qualified twice for the NCAA Tournament, and went 36-17 between singles and doubles.

The 1957-58 men’s basketball team became the College’s first national championship game qualifier, finishing as the runner-up. Because of illness and injuries, the Purple Knights advanced to the title game using just five players upon arriving at the Elite Eight: Drew Denmead ’58, Hank Gretkowski ’59, Tony Nicodemo ’59, Jim Browne ’60, and Dick Zeitler ’60. The national media began referring to them as the Iron Knights, in reference to their 40-minute, ironman-like efforts. Each of the starting five, reserve Warren Tessier ’59, head coach George “Doc” Jacobs, and assistant coach Ed Markey ’51 are already enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

Frank McCaffrey ’58, Joe Spychalsky ’58, Dave Mracek ’59, Ralph St. Peter ’59, Ted Burtis ’60 (DNG), Tom O’Rourke ’60 (DNG), Artie Orlando ’60 (DNG), and Joe Watson ’60 completed the roster.

SOFTBALL REGISTERS REBOUND SEASON

By virtue of a 12-10 record over the final 25 days of the regular season, the Purple Knight softball team remained in contention for its first NE10 Championship berth since 2005 until the season’s final day, ultimately missing the tournament by a single game.

Needing a win in its finale on April 29 to stay alive, Saint Michael’s received a tie-breaking two-run single from Christina Brazeau ’17 — on her final career swing — in the sixth inning of a 5-4 win over Bentley University. The Purple and Gold won season series against four teams this spring, including perennial regional power Southern New Hampshire University.

Fallon Tierney ’19 became the second player in program history to claim an all-region honor, while Torie Rathwell ’20 landed an NE10 All-Conference laurel after hitting .354 with 11 doubles, four home runs, 20 RBIs, a 2.95 ERA and a 6-8 pitching record. Danielle Brown ’18 was second in the NE10 in strikeouts per seven innings, and Danielle Barbato ’17 drilled five home runs, finishing tied for sixth in program history with 10 for her career.

Message from the Alumni Association President

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lthough I grew up in Connecticut, Vermont has always been a home to me.

When I was young, my grandparents and favorite aunt lived on Hinesburg Road in South Burlington, with the same beautiful backyard view of Mansfield and Camel’s Hump that’s visible across Route 15 from campus. We went to Ben & Jerry’s when Ben and Jerry were scooping the ice cream in their converted gas station downtown. We hiked Smugglers’ Notch in the fall and visited Trapp Family Lodge when Maria von Trapp still greeted her guests.

I had a connection to Saint Michael’s from an early age, too. My uncle Rich Morrissey graduated in the Class of ’74, and I remember visiting him and my aunt Martha when they lived on North Campus. My cousin Bill Morrissey was Class of ’79. It was a very familiar place and a natural progression when I decided to follow their footsteps and become a Purple Knight, too.

I met some of my best friends at Saint Michael’s.

I studied politics, which has been my interest and profession for many years. I loved the community service of the MOVE

program, and the year I spent in Selma with the Edmundites after graduation. It all helped make me who I am today.

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Four years at Saint Michael’s has a long-lasting effect, whether you realize it soon after graduation or further on down the road. The natural beauty of Vermont is special, but it’s the friends and mentors I met there, along with the feelings of home, comfort, and happiness that always make me glad to return.

I’m fortunate to return to campus at least three times a year for Alumni Board meetings. It’s a wonderful group of alumni from across the decades — nearly two dozen current members represent classes between 1965 and 2016. They share my enthusiasm for our beloved school and its mission, volunteer their time and energy, eagerly learn about new programs and events on campus, and share that information with their alumni friends.

At our March meeting, we learned about an upcoming campus-wide initiative called Life After College.

This program will create wonderful new opportunities for our vast and talented

alumni network to assist current students with more hands-on learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

More alumni will be invited into the classroom, both in person and through use of technology, to share their professional experiences and industry insights.

The ability of alumni to help current students and new graduates secure mentorships, internships, and jobs will be critical to the success of the program.

If you’re interested in getting involved with Life After College and assisting current students and recent graduates with their

career goals, please contact me at the e-mail below.

Thank you for continuing to support Saint Michael’s and strengthening the bond to this wonderful place in Vermont we called home.

Annie Rosello ’94 smcalumnipres@smcvt.edu

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1953

1967

DR. DENTON E. “NED” MACCARTY, Burlington, VT,

RICH FEELEY, Burlington, VT/Ocala, FL, a 72-year-old above-the-knee amputee, scored a hole in one at the Spruce Creek Preserve Golf Course in Ocala, FL, on November 11, 2016. Rich used a hybrid 8 club on the 115-yard 6th hole while playing with three other golfers in the Oak Run Friday men’s league. It was his third hole-in-one.

this year celebrated his 85th birthday and the 20th anniversary of a successful liver transplant. Also, Ned and his wife, Jackie, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

1961 DR. FREDERICK “SKIP” BURKLE, Kailua, HI, in

March was awarded the Humanitarian Leadership Award by the Humanitarian Studies Initiative at McGill University in Canada.

Jules Pequignot ’42, the College’s second oldest living alumnus at 98, was presented a framed Saint Michael’s “42” jersey at a basketball game in February. This year marks Jules’ 75th reunion as a member of the men’s basketball team and a graduate of the College.

1968 BOB “HID” HIDLEY, Dover, DE, wrote to share the pride he feels about the alumni

daughter of a close friend (see Class of 2013 notes).

Beyond Amelie Jensen’s impressive recent academic news, Hid also shared: “Apart from completing her coursework at St. Mike’s with honors in 2013, Amelie was an active rugby player/captain and an all-around doer who makes us all proud … She deserves a lot of credit for her ambition and work ethic.”

Angling Memoirs and Fishy Tales.

(Wind Knot Publishing, Burlington). Peter is co-author of Vermont’s classic trout fishing guides Vermont Trout Streams and The Atlas of Vermont Trout Ponds. He is author of three other titles: In the Company of Trout; Vermont Trout Ponds; Long Trail Trout and Vermont’s Trophy Trout Waters. See the books section of this magazine for details.

1969

1970

PETER SHEA, Burlington, VT,

SEBASTIAN R. PALMERI, Caldwell, NJ, in November 2016 was honored by his high school alma mater, Essex Catholic of Newark, NJ, when

recently had published his fourth book in as many years.

The most recent title is Collateral Trout: A Vermonter’s

Arthur Loveley, III, ’52, New York, NY had plans to travel to Boston for a Red Sox game this past August 2016. When he learned that a Saint Michael’s student, Julia Wagner ’18, was doing a presentation at the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston, he jumped at the opportunity to visit the Yard which was celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the National Park Service with a special series of events on the role of women workers at the Yard. The previous summer, Julia had been awarded an undergraduate research grant by the College to complete an oral history of Peggy Citarella, the first woman welder at the Boston Navy Yard during WWII. A park ranger from the Yard heard about her research and invited her to present during their 2-day extravaganza. When Julia arrived at the Yard to give her presentation, Art was there waiting for her. Peggy Citarella, who resides in Burlington, VT, also traveled to Boston to attend the event. Peggy is the wife of the late Armand “Doc” Citarella, a long-time classics professor at Saint Michael’s. Art had taken classes with Prof. Citarella and was delighted at the opportunity to meet Peggy and reminisce about his fond memories of Saint Michael’s. Julia’s parents — Joan Wagner, ’93 (director, Center for Community-Engaged Learning) and David Boyle, M’03, M’14 — were also in attendance at the event. The photos show Julia on the Cassin-Young in the Navy Yard, and in the group shot, Art, Peggy, Julia and Joan. The Cassin-Young, which is on permanent display at the Yard, is a Fletcher-class destroyer built for WWII that Julia and the group toured at the site. The Cassin-Young was actually built in San Pedro, CA, but it was the sort of ship on which Peggy applied her welding expertise. She never called herself a “Rosie the Riveter” because welding was a much more skilled (and challenging) trade — and thus, a particular point of pride. There were far fewer woman welders than riveters, and she was so good at her trade that she trained hundreds of men to be welders before she even worked in the yard. During Julia’s tour of the ship, the group found a placard containing a picture of the young Peggy and a brief description of her contributions at the Yard.

he was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame at a gala event at the Mansion of Mountain Lakes in New Jersey attended by more than 250 people. This honor is bestowed on Essex alumni for achievement as scholars, professionals and in athletics.

Sebastian is a multi-award winning builder and developer of subdivisions, custom homes, banks and commercial properties in northern New Jersey for the past 35 years. He has been married for 37 years to his wife, Deborah, and is father to SEBASTIAN M. PALMERI ’06, who was active in Saint Michael’s Fire and Rescue and works now as a computer network engineer, lives in Red Bank, NJ, is married to Laura Carew Palmeri since 2012, and has a son, Kevin, who is nearly two.

1974 TOM O’HARA, Longmeadow,

MA, on October 28, 2015 had a mini-class-reunion in Plymouth, MA with Tom Ziomek, John Stevenson, Bob Toner and Tom. See photo.

THOMAS DANYLIW,

Essex, CT, writes: “Greetings from a chronologically old, yet inquisitively young, alum who remains thankful for his years at St. Mike’s.

Professor Gil Grady was a friend, Ron Provost a supporter, Nick Clary a

tough-love teacher (and while short was relentless on the court), Fr. DuPont a gentleman and scholar, many others who embodied what was special about the place. As I continue to work and teach in what is considered a high level of expertise and academia, what I learned in my undergraduate years in Winooski Park remains a bedrock. Logic, humanities, philosophy, critical thinking, effective expression, humility, love.

These are the foundations that a liberal arts education provide for life success. I trust you will keep the faith in humanity and the youngsters in your care.”

Tom O’Hara ’74 recently shared photos from a mini class reunion that occurred in Plymouth, MA on October 28, 2015: attendees were, from left, Bob Toner, Tom Ziomek, Tom O’Hara and John Stevenson, all from the Class of ’74. Writes Tom, “I’ll always have a soft spot in my heart for SMC, so please stay in touch with college updates.”

Mike Devine ’79 (in the blue shirt) and Ken McFall ’59 ran into each other during a cruise on the Lower Mississippi River in late October 2016.

WILLIAM PATRICK “WILLY” FALLON, Argao Cebu,

Philippines, writes that he and his wife, Joy, have built the only B&B in their small town in the Philippines. “I retired three years ago from many years in the UN, most recently WHO in Geneva, Switzerland.

We located right on the ocean and welcome any SMC alum to visit if they want,” Willy writes, adding, “Our website is: http://bjsseaside.wixsite. com/argaocebu and our email is bjsbythesea@gmail. com”

1976 EARLE PITT, Marshfield, MA,

recently was named a “Five Star Wealth Manager” and

Joe Hurley ’81 (parent of Chris Hurley ’11) sent us photos of “a group of St. Mike’s alums who first skied together 40 years ago up at Smuggs” and who recently made a trip together to Alta, Snowbird and Snow Basin in Utah.

Besides some nice shots of the guys in the powder taking in some views, Joe sent this “apres skiing” shot – from left, he ID’s them as “Ziggy ’80, Chris McMullin ’80, Jack Storer ’79, Gerard Staudt ’80, Joe Hurley ’80, Chris Piccaro ’80.”

Robert Cochrane, Class of 1981, recently donated to the library a collection of books, recordings, and pictures focused on Carthusian spirituality and the Camaldolese Benedictines, of which he is an oblate.

When Robert was a first-year student at Saint Michael’s, the late Carl Zeno, professor of philosophy, asked him what he wanted to do after college. Robert responded that he wished to become a Carthusian. In 2002 Robert lived briefly in a Cistercian Monastery.

The Carthusians were of interest to him because of their total dedication to Jesus and his mother Mary. Robert has worked for over 30 years with elders in long-term care facilities and currently lives in Chicopee, MA.

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CLASS NOTES 52

Ed Keough ’82 in early February wrote to share that he and classmates Greg Keller ’82 “just spent an awesome week skiing at Whistler, BC, Canada.

The highlight was a day of helicopter skiing. Great fun!”

featured in Boston Magazine.

He is managing director of Centinel Financial Group, LLC in Marshfield. This an honor achieved through through firm nominations, peer nominations and industry qualifications.

Candidates are then evaluated on 10 objective eligibility and evaluation criteria, including client retention rates, client assets administered, firm review and a favorable regulatory and complaint history.

1978

Brigadier General Mary Higley Hittmeier, PhD ’83, retired from the Air Force on August 1, 2016, as the Mobilization Assistant to the Superintendent, US Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs CO. Gen. Hittmeier was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, the Air Force’s highest non-combat medal, for exceptionally meritorious service in a duty of great responsibility.

As part of her retirement events, Gen. Hittmeier had a Mass of Thanksgiving.

The Mass was celebrated in the US Air Force Academy cadet chapel, a national historic landmark. Joining in the celebration were fellow 1983 Saint Michael’s ROTC classmates Brian Donohoe and Colonel (retired) Cathy (Higley) DeVera. The attached photo was taken in the Air Force Academy cadet chapel. Pictured are Brian Donohoe, Brig Gen. (ret.) Mary Higley Hittmeier and Col. (ret.) Cathy (Higley) DeVera. An earlier image in the magazine of these alumni had some incorrect information.

Rich Gallerani ’86 recently shared that his woodcarving of the Blessed Mother in a recent wood-carving competition for Northern New Jersey won first place in the intermediate class in category “Human figure, natural (unpainted)” and also won the Best of Class in the Intermediate Class, meaning it won the best of all the first place winners in the more than 30 different intermediate categories. “The win moves me up to the Advanced level. My next project is a three-foot statue of St. Benedict for the 150th anniversary of St. Benedict’s Prep School where I’ve been teaching for the past sixteen years. A large Saint Edmund is in the works as well!”

DAVID MARCHI, New York, NY, is making a noteworthy career as an artist/painter — a gift he discovered later in life through extraordinary circumstances related to a boating accident and his perseverance through the pain of the aftermath. He has a website with a link to a film telling parts of his inspirational story. David also has had his work on exhibit in the Wolfarth Gallery in Washington, D.C., and at Damian West and Agora Galleries in New York City. Learn more at his website link: http://www. gallerymarchi.com/

1981 ROBERT COCHRANE,

Chicopee, MA, recently donated to the College’s library a collection of books, recordings and pictures focused on Carthusian spirituality and the Camaldolese Benedictines, of which he is an oblate. See photo of Robert and more details on his gift.

1982 ED KEOUGH, Auburn, ME, this winter joined an exciting ski weekend with classmate GREG KELLER, Vernon Hills, IL, in British Columbia, where the highlight was helicopter skiing. See photo.

1985 REV. JOHN R. ODAMS, Dorchester, MA, recently has begun as the 30th pastor of the First Baptist Church of Boston, MA, which was founded in 1665.

1987 JONATHAN BILLINGS,

St. Albans, VT, earned his Master of Science in Health Promotion Management from Nebraska Methodist College this spring. Jonathan is in his 28th year as the Vice President of Planning & Community Relations at Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans.

1988 CHRISTOPHER HERRICK, South Hero, VT, was appointed by Vermont Gov. Phil Scott to serve as Deputy Commissioner of Public Safety. Prior to this appointment Chris was the Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.

Chris began his 30-year career in the fire service in 1985 with Saint Michael’s College Fire Department where he served as Captain and graduated from Saint

PLANNED GIVING: HOW YOU CAN MAKE A LASTING DIFFERENCE CLASS NOTES

Kevin Bosworth ’82 and his wife, Jennifer, wanted to help make Saint Michael’s more affordable for students, so they designated Saint Michael’s College as a beneficiary of their life insurance policy.

“It was an easy process and felt very right,” said Kevin. “Saint Michael’s taught me that we should always strive to live in peace, to be kind and courteous to one another, and to continually give back.”

As a student Kevin witnessed staff members who helped parents find the best ways to finance their children’s education so they could make it to graduation. Their compassion motivated him to give back.

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If you’re interested in joining the Bosworths in making a lasting difference with your planned gift, or would like to learn more, please contact Phung Pham at 802-654-2646 or ppham@smcvt.edu.

Michael’s in 1988 with a bachelor’s in psychology. He lives in South Hero with his wife, Janet, and their children.

1989 PATRICK GALLIVAN,

South Burlington, VT, married Danielle Fisette on September 10, 2016 at Saint Anne’s Shrine in Isle LaMotte.

Fr. Michael Cronogue, SSE, officiated. Patrick is vice president for government and community affairs in the Saint Michael’s College President’s Office.

1990 HAL JORDAN, Colorado Springs, CO, was quoted extensively in a Boston Globe feature story in December about the friendship between his family and the family of Boston Bruins star defenseman Brandon Carlo. Hal’s son and Brandon Carlo’s close friend, Hadan Jordan, is a current Saint Michael’s student who plays ice hockey for the Purple Knights.

SCOTT SCHREFFLER,

Everett, WA, writes, “Some big news for me this year. My wife, Rachel Schreffler (not an alum), opened a bakery in downtown Everett, Washing-

ton, www.chouxchouxbakery. com. I was promoted to Associate at GGLO www.gglo. com where I am a Senior Architect currently working on one of the first completely netzero-energy affordable housing projects in the nation!”

1991 MARK NELSON, Latham, NY, learned in January he was selected to receive the 2016 Distinguished Member of the Year Award from the Empire State Society of Association Executives (ESSAE), which represents about 450 associations in New York State outside of the New York

City metropolitan area. Mark, who has his doctorate and MBA, is executive director of the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA).

This award “recognizes an association professional, and active ESSAE member, who has provided all around leadership both within his/ her association and to the field at large.”

1995 JENNY SYNOTT, Dublin,

Ireland, got married and started a cookie company with her wife in Ireland.

See photo — she shares the details in the caption.

Lauren (Luoma) Aiello writes: “Twelve members of the SMC Class of 1989 gathered to honor one of them, Tim LeBouthillier, at his surprise 50th birthday party on January 21, 2017, in Connecticut!

It was a great time with friends, Tim’s family, food, TONS of pictures, music, and dancing, and Tim was really touched by the crowd assembled to celebrate him. Alumni in attendance, from left: Kelly (McKenna) Cruess (it was her birthday!), Ed Cruess, Pat Gallivan, Jim Palmer, Pat Fitzgibbons, Lauren (Luoma) Aiello, Dave Kells, Tim LeBouthillier, Anne D’Angelo, Karen (Culhane) Caron, Brian “BC” Canavan, and Rick Cote.

CLASS NOTES 54

On Saturday, January 7, a group of alumni had a ski day and reunion including a visit to Ideltyme Brewing Company in Stowe.

Writes Alfred E. “Alf” Barbalunga, “This was a great way to spend the evening, having dinner and many laughs, after a wonderful day of skiing. Gisa traveled from Caracas, Venezuela, Matt and Elizabeth traveled from Miami, Fl, Kika traveled from Duxbury, VT, and I traveled from Pittsfield, MA, to spend this special time together. Looking forward to the next one!” In this photo from left: Matthew Staab ’93, Elizabeth Staab (attended until ’92), Gisa Colasante Wallis ’96, Kika Bronger ’96 and Alf Barbalunga ’93.

Jenny Synnott ’95 writes, “After graduation I moved to the Caribbean for a couple of years, back to my home state of Massachusetts and finally settled in Dublin, Ireland in 2008. Since moving here, I’ve met my wife, Elaine - a farm girl from Cork and with her started The Dublin Cookie Company. We’re in our fourth year of business and have even opened our own little cookie shop in the heart of Old Dublin. I’ve attached a photo here from my October 2016 wedding in Dublin. From left to right: Jenny Synnott (myself, Class of ’95), Lisa Zaferakis ’95, my wife, Elaine Cohalan and my brother John Synnott ’93.

Patrick Wheeler ’01 and Hillary Logan Young were married on September 17, 2016 in Hanover, NH.

According to Stephen Giulietti ’99, who sent this photo, a group of greater Boston area alumni pals gathered for Kevin O’Driscoll’s 40th birthday celebration during the weekend of January 28, 2017, at the Great American Tavern in North Reading, MA. Pictured from left to right: Jeff Kenney ’98, Matt Schold ’00, TJ Demattia ’99, Kevin O’Driscoll ’99, Jeff Wilkinson ’99, Stephen Giulietti ’99, Austin Gregoire ’99, and Amber (Monaghan) O’Driscoll ’00.

Many alumni attended the wedding of Rebecca Nau and Kevin Thomas on November 26, 2016. In the photo is left to right: Christopher Wallis ’04, Rose Bacon M’01, Aimee (Malboeuf) Gadouas ’03, Rebecca (Nau) Thomas ’03 (Bride), Kevin Thomas ’03 (Groom), Thomas O’Neil ’02, Eric Kuplast ’03, and Kimberly (DeVoe) Graham ’02.

Mike McDonough ’04 married Danielle Bourgette in Big Sur, CA, on October 22 2016.

(Mostly) Saint Michael’s people in attendance included : Front Row: Bunny Arcand (non-alum), Lauren Hurley ’04, Steve Parke ’04, Matthew Scimone ’04, Mike McDonough ’04, Joe Sullivan ’04, Danielle Bourgette (not alum); Sunny White ’05; Chris White ’04, Amy Gredler ’05, Scott Gredler, ’04, Casey O’Connor ’04, Derek Kline ’04; back row: John Sampson ’04, Kirk Bailey ’04, Griff Curtin ’04.

2001 PATRICK WHEELER ’01, Norwich, VT, married Hillary Logan Young on September 17, 2016 in Hanover, NH. See photo.

S M C V T. E D U / A L U M N I A P P

2002 KAITLIN MCDEVITT RICKETTS, Marietta, GA,

and her husband, Jonathan Ricketts, along with big brother Aiden, welcomed a son, Nolan Dade, on August 19, 2016.

MICHELLE GIARDINI COSCIA, Franklin MA, and

her husband, Mike, welcomed a second son, Adam Joseph, on September 24, 2016.

1998 See news in the 2008 notes about the career of Randy Gaetano, York, ME.

2000 AMIE CROSBY DAVIS,

Georgia, VT, and her husband, Jay, welcomed their fourth child, George Crosby Davis, on March 8, 2017.

JENNIFER (MCGOVERN) CLARK, Braintree, MA, an

attorney for the firm Casner & Edwards, was named a “Super Lawyer” for 2016 in New England and Massachusetts.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas “who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.”

2003 RICHARD LAND, Ridgefield, CT, has joined Fieldpoint Private, a wealth advisory and private banking firm serving ultra-high-net-worth families and institutions, as managing director and senior advisor.

His practice is based in Fieldpoint Private’s Greenwich, CT, office. He joins the firm following 12 years with Citigroup. Most recently,

he was with Citi Private Bank in Greenwich and Westport, CT, where he worked with successful families and entrepreneurs on more than $300 million in investments, personal and business banking and credit. In prior years at Citi, he was a business banking officer, working with companies on commercial lending, insurance and cash management, and in 2009 was named the firm’s Top Business Banker in Connecticut.

REBECCA ANN NAU and KEVIN PETER THOMAS,

Rochester, NY, were married on November 26, 2016 in the Chapel of Saint Michael’ the Archangel on campus, with Rev. Lino Oropeza, SSE, presiding. See photo.

ELIZABETH AGNES GREGORY and Delbert

Orlando Randall Jr. ’04, Burlington, VT, were married on September 3, 2016 in the Chapel of Saint Michael the Archangel, with Lauren Mongeon Bone and Benjamin Gregory as witnesses and Rev. Marcel Rainville, SSE, presiding.

Alumni at the recent wedding of Kristie Hambrecht ’05 and Jeff Avallon in Boston on September 17, 2016, included, from left: Lauren Piekarski Byron ’05, Kacey Connor Morris ’86, Kara Mears ’05, Jason Vanderstreet ’02, Mark Byron ’05, Anna Toothaker Patterson ’05, Dave Patterson ’03, Lisa Gillette ’05, Stephanie Hammond Christopher ’05, Bride: Kristie Hambrecht ’05, Groom: Jeff Avallon, Michael Christopher ’05, Lauren Berry ’05, Brian Horton ’05, Mike Moran ’05, Brian Fischer ’05, Katie Sedore Meyer ’05, Mary Frambach Fischer ’05, Caitlin Maloney Buchanan ’05; Not pictured but in attendance were also Faith Hubert Horton ’05 and Jessica Howard Randall ’05, and Kenny Buchanan ’02.

CLASS NOTES

DOWNLOAD THE SAINT MICHAEL’S ALUMNI APP

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EDMUNDITE HERITAGE TRIP TO FRANCE JOIN US!

CLASS NOTES

Accompany Fr. Marcel Rainville ’67 and members of the Saint Michael’s College community on a trip to retrace the footsteps of the Edmundites in France. Experience the towns, cities, and abbeys that were the landscapes for many important religious figures.

MAY 13–22, 2018 Reserve your spot now.

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To learn more about the trip visit: edmunditefoundation.grouptoursite.com

2004 DELBERT ORLANDO RANDALL JR. got married

(see 2003 notes).

2005 Kaitlin Murphy ’05 married Andrew Riedl on August 13, 2016 in Amherst, MA. They live in Somerville, MA. Saint Michael’s guests pictured here included: Lesley Robinson ’05, Leslie Lindquist ’05, Noelle Gill ’05, Mary Kate Oliver ’06, Andrew Beyer ’05, Courtney Rains ’05, and Wanda Brennan (“proud SMC Grandma of the bride”). Photo credit: Lindsey McGrath ’06.

KAITLIN MURPHY, Somerville, MA, married Andrew Riedl on August 13, 2016 in Amherst, MA. They live in Somerville.

KRISTIE HAMBRECHT, Boston, MA, married Jeff Avallon on September 17, 2016 in Boston. A large group of friends, mostly from the Class of 2005, attended. See photo.

2006 AMY CRONIN, Stowe, VT,

Mike Kelley ’06 married Kim Rush were married Sept. 24, 2016, at Spring Meadows Golf Club in Gray, Maine. Alumni in attendance were: Dustin Bruley ’06, Ellie (Hedden) Mack ’06 and Nick Mack ’07, Allen Briggs ’06, Carl Lawrence ’06, Jeff Baker ’06, Johanna Simmons ’06, Marissa Petrarca ’06, Mike Mosey ’06 and Jo Pressimone ’06.

has been selected as Festival and Marketing Manager for The Vermont Brewers Association (VBA), a craft brewery nonprofit membership organization based in Burlington and best known

for their Brewery Challenge Passport Program and hosting the annual Vermont Brewers Festival on Burlington’s waterfront. Amy is the Association’s first Festival and Marketing Manager. She will help coordinate and execute the Vermont Brewers Festival, the development of a Winter Brewers Festival and a week-long celebration of craft beer in May, and will implement all of the Association’s marketing efforts. She spent 10 years in marketing and fundraising for Lund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

BRIAN HOWLEY and ANNE FLETCHER, Westbrook, ME,

were married August 19, 2016.

MIKE KELLEY, Westbrook, ME, and Kim Rush were married Sept. 24, 2016, at Spring Meadows Golf Club in Gray, Maine. See photo.

See news about SEBASTIAN M. PALMERI, Red Bank, NJ, under 1970 notes.

2007

LINDSAY (MCANULTY) RADICE, Annapolis, MD, and

her husband, Joshua J. Radice Ph.D., welcomed their son, Dominic Joshua, on March 15, 2015. She also successfully completed her doctoral degree in Religious Education and Catechetics at The Catholic University of America in May 2016. She is currently serving as the Director of Campus Ministry and Service at Notre Dame of Maryland University.

She celebrated her graduation with family and friends in September 2016 (see photo).

MONIQUE GAGNON,

Watertown, MA, married Roberto Magno on July 4, 2016, at the Wentworth in Jackson, NH, where a reception followed.

2008 BEN CLARK, Chittenden, VT, married Elizabeth Palko on September 5, 2015 at Christ the King Church in Rutland, VT. See photo.

COLIN BOYD, Eliot, ME,

wrote recently to share that he and Randy Gaetano ’98 of York, ME and Peter Miller ’07 of Eliot “have all landed at KINGSPØKE in Portland, Maine,” a boutique creative agency focused on cultureconscious brands. Colin has the title of producer there.

AMELIA (HOLSTON) HOLSTROM, West Springfield,

Monique Gagnon ’07 married Roberto Magno on July 4, 2016, with a reception following, both at The Wentworth in Jackson, NH. Alumni present, also from Class of 2007, from left: Sheila (Regan) Romano, Amanda Magnan, Amy Fayne, Jessi (Eiras) Zodda, Monique (Gagnon) Magno (me!), Jess (Watts) Runnals, Kelly Murphy, Nikia (Murchie) Trinward, and Lauren Putnam. Monique shared her St. Mike’s story of “friendship love” in her circle of close friends with the Alumni Office this past Valentine’s Day (which was posted on the alumni website), while also sharing the news of her marriage.

JORDAN SCAMPOLI and SARAH RYAN ’09, Boulder,

CO, were married on top of a mountain in Boulder, Colorado in October 2016.

See photo.

AMY SWEETSER, Sebago,

ME, in summer 2016 studied the diverse desert and marine landscapes of two richly diverse biosphere reserves through ecological and social field methods in Baja (Mexico). Amy, an educational technician at Buxton Center Elementary School, lives in Sebago, and took the graduate course in pursuit of her master’s degree from Miami University’s Global Field Program.

2009 JONATHAN DOWNEY, IAN MYERS and MARK PETERSON, all of the greater Denver,

CO, area, are still connected by their work. In a newsletter of the Metro Wastewater Reclamation District in Denver of recent months, the following words went with a photo: “Jonathan Downey ’09 (right) is awarded $1,000 for

Lindsay (McAnulty) Radice, successfully completed her doctoral degree in Religious Education and Catechetics at The Catholic University of America in May 2016. She celebrated her graduation with family at friends in September 2016 (See 2007 Class Notes).

Alumni gathering on a snowy weekend at the beach in Connecticut this past winter: John Wizeman ’08, Lauren Healey ’09, Taylor Healey ’08, Pat Garrity ’08, Kelly Holland ’08, Mikey Holland ’08, John Biancamano ’09, Kate Wizeman ’08, Matt Brown ’08, Jon Way, and Laura Anacone ’09 “along with 4 future Knights,” writes John Wizeman.

Ben Clark ’08 married Elizabeth Palko on September 5, 2015 at Christ the King Church in Rutland, VT.

CLASS NOTES

See news in 2008 notes about the career of PETER MILLER, Eliot, ME.

MA, was selected as one of 25 Excellence in the Law Up & Coming Lawyer honorees by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly in March 2017. The award recognizes those who have practiced 10 years of less, but have already distinguished themselves at work and in their communities. Amelia is an attorney at Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C. in Springfield, MA, where she exclusively represents management in labor and employment matters.

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CLASS NOTES 58

successfully referring Mark Petersen to the Metro District for the position of Industrial Waste Survey Technician.

Interestingly, Ian Myers in 2014 successfully referred Jonathan Downey for Lab Analyst I. Then Jonathan Downey, in turn, refers Mark Petersen ’09! Ian, Jonathan and Mark were all roommates together at St. Michael’s College in Vermont where they earned their biology degrees. Jonathan is the second employee from ES this year to receive an award from the Employee Referral Program.”

MARY S. WILLIS SKAHAN, Charleston, S.C. has joined Young Clement Rivers LLP as an associate attorney based in the Charleston office.

She practices primarily in the commercial litigation and appellate practice group.

Previously, she was a judicial law clerk for Judge Timothy M. Cain and Judge Ross Anderson Jr.

She has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Saint Michael’s College and a law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law. JESS HOSKINS, Jericho, VT, and her husband MIKE HOSKINS ’10, welcomed a

daughter, Elizabeth Mae Hoskins, on March 24, 2017.

BRIANNA MURPHY and MICHAEL DURKIN,

Waterbury, VT, were married on June 25, 2016 at The Beach Club in Centerville, MA SARAH RYAN, Boulder, CO,

got married (See 2008 notes).

2010 ERICK GALLAGHER got

married (see 2011 note below).

See 2009 notes for news of a new baby for MIKE HOSKINS, Jericho, VT.

2011 CHRISTINE AMORESANO and ERICK GALLAGER ’10,

Denver, CO, were married on October 22, 2016 at the Chapel of Saint Michael the Archangel on campus, with a reception at the West Monitor Barn in Richmond, VT. Christine and Erick met on the St. Mike’s swim team in 2007 and credit the late Jim Donoghue ’70 with helping to bring them together. See photo.

2012 LIAM CALLAHAN and KARRI MAKINEN, Concord,

NH, both from Class of 2012, were married October 1, 2016 at Tumbledown Farms in Brookfield, N.H. “It’s been a crazy few months since the wedding. Karri and I bought a house in Concord, NH and we’re still in the process of settling in,” Liam writes. See photo.

KIMBERLY MARCHETTI and JUSTIN GAUTHIER,

Hudson, MA, were married on September 17, 2016 in the Chapel of Saint Michael the

Archangel with Rev. Marcel Rainville ’67 SSE, presiding.

Witnesses were Colleen Elizabeth Hallissey and Evan Richard Gauthier.

STEVEN THOMPSON and SUSAN LONGCHAMP,

Reno, NV, were married on May 21, 2016 in Calais, VT at the Old West Church.

Following the ceremony, a reception was held at the Old Labor Hall in Barre, VT. See photo.

2013 AMELIE JENSEN, Kenne-

bunk, ME, has enrolled in the Master of Science in Marine & Environmental Science program at the University of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas, USVI. In recent months an article was published by the university focusing on her chosen scientific thesis, exploring seagrasses’ relationship with carbon. A copy of that article (with great optics) is available here: https://epscorvi.wordpress. com/2016/11/07/uvigraduate-student-explores-seagrasses-relationshipwith-carbon/

Life After College is a comprehensive four-year student development program that promotes student success through purposeful learning experiences beyond the classroom with help from our alumni and community partners.

WE NEED YOUR HELP! Visit smcvt.edu/lifeaftercollege to learn more and volunteer.

Christine Amoresano ’11 and Erick Gallager ’10 were married on October 22, 2016 at the Chapel of Saint Michael the Archangel on campus, with a reception at the West Monitor Barn in Richmond, VT. Alumni in attendance: back row, Katherine Hackett ’11, Josh Hoxie ’11, Matt Jordan ’11, Bryan Geary ’12, Kaiti Tuthill ’11, Meghan Vandenberg ’11, Alex Stott ’11, Elizabeth (Hawkes) Wall ’10, Matt Wolfe ’11, Pat Wall ’10, Danielle Segal ’10, Emily Wright ’10, Ryan Walker ’10, Christian Jevne ’10; Front Row: Ben Taylor ’11, Kate Bailey ’11, Montana Palmer ’11, Amanda (Willette) Geary ’11, Jason Berglund ’11, Carrie Ward ’13, Christine (Amoresano) Gallager ’11 (Bride), Erick Gallager ’10 (Groom), Allison Dionne ’10, Whitney Wildes ’10, Dan Purcell ’10, Brian Madden ’09.

Brianna Murphy and Michael Durkin, both of the Class of 2009, were married on June 25, 2016 at The Beach Club in Centerville, MA. Alumni present, from left: Front row: Kristen Knapp ’08, Kerry Killian ’09, Kailey Kilcoyne ’09, Kim Berlo ’09, Elise Daigle ’10, Emily Durkin ’11, Erin Monzione ’09, Brianna Durkin ’09, Mike Durkin ’09, Cara Tunney ’09, Jamie Minchello ’09, back row: Peter Knapp ’08, Brian Killian ’09, Conley Eagan ’09, Matt Winkler ’09, Danielle Feld ’09, Ben Daigle ’09, Nick Romano ’09, Daniel Rowan ’09, Ashely Romano ’09, Michael Cyr ’09, Justine Murray ’09, Peter Murray ’09.

James Verdery and Amanda Witt, both of the Saint Michael’s Class of 2011, were married on September 10, 2016. Alumni in attendance: Back row left to right, Miranda Jonswold ’11, Louis Annino ’12, Danielle Clemente ’10, Christian Chamars ’11; Front row from left: Keith Montford ’12, Daisy Sosa ’11, Brittany Baker ’11, Amanda Witt ’11 (bride), James Verdery ’11 (groom), Robert Welsh ’11, Lei Zhang ’11, Evan Meier 11.

The wedding of Bridget Levine and Matthew Phillips was on September 23, 2016 at Willowdale Estate at Bradley Palmer State Park in Topfield, MA.. Alumni in attendance included: Back row from left to right: Mike Perkins ’12, Mike Cardillo ’12, Chelsea Pepi ’12, Liz Levenson ’12, Keith Montford ’12, Stephen Cavallaro ’12, Jonny Rushfirth ’12, Jake Carleen ’12, Josh Lanney ’12, Hannah Perry ’12, Kevin O’Riordan ’12, William Jeralds ’10 Middle Row from left to right: Brian McDonnell ’12, Jenna McCarthy ’12, Miranda Jonswold ’11, Nelly Koch ’12, Joanna Ghilardi ’12, Becca Campbell ’12, Brittany Richardson ’12, JP Lagace ’12; Front Row: Bridget and Matt (both Class of’12); Wills Abbey ’12 was also in attendance but not pictured.

CLASS NOTES

Sarah Ryan ’09 and Jordan Scampoli ’08 were married on top of a mountain in Boulder, Colorado in October 2016. “Many burritos were eaten and much homebrew was imbibed!”

Jordan writes. Alumni (and professor) present: Pat Ivory ’08, Max MacDonald ’08, Annalisa MacDonald (Anderson) ’08, Caroline Heivly (Gibson) ’09, Sarah Steenbeek ’09, Pat Kelly ’09, Chrissie Kelly (Eaton) ’09, Marc Gagne ’08, Dan Hafner ’08, Meghan Maclean ’08, Teddy Oram ’09, Erin Donovan ’07, Shana Lothrop ’07, Owen Glubiak ’08, Teddy Berg ’07, Nicholas Stanton ’08, Scott Thomson ’08, Tina Ryan ’06, and Saint Michael’s faculty economist Reza Ramazani.

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CLASS NOTES

HEIDI MARIE CHAPMAN and CHARLES WESLEY CHAPMAN, JR. ’14,

Liam Callahan and Karri Makinen, both from Class of 2012, were married October 1, 2016 at Tumbledown Farms in Brookfield, N.H. Alumni in attendance, from left: Anne Marie McNeil ‘11, Mike Brown ‘14, Josh Hoxie ‘11, Liam Callahan ‘12, Karri Makinen ‘12, Dan Hock ‘09, Katy Bailey, Kirsten Wilson ‘14, Dan Quigley ‘15.

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Quechee, VT, were married January 14, 2017 in the Chapel of Saint Michael the Archangel on campus, with Rev. Brian Cummings, SSE, officiating.

2014 CHARLES WESLEY CHAPMAN JR. got married

(see 2013 notes).

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Steven Thompson and Susan Longchamp, both of the Class of 2012, were married on May 21, 2016 in Calais, VT at the Old West Church. Following the ceremony, a reception was held at the Old Labor Hall in Barre, VT. The newlywed couple resides in Reno, NV. Saint Michael’s people attending (from left): Nicolo Baratta ’12, Samantha Merrill ’12, Keith Montford ’12, Mairead Moore ’09, Miranda Jonswold ’12, Chelsea Bjelko ’19, Christopher Dustin ’12, Matthew Thompson ’19, Patrick Thompson ’16, Jonny Rushfirth ’12, Steven Thompson ’12, Michael Brown ’12, Susan (Longchamp) Thompson ’12, Matthew Foley ’12, Brian Meloche ’12, Thom Lauzon ’83, James Hughes ’12, Kevin McLaughlin ’12, Rassoul Rangaviz ’90, and Lawrence Thompson ’84.

For a recent gathering, alumni Meghan Stanton ’14, Olivia McCall ’13, Colin Marshall ’13, and Trevor Brown ’15 met up at Diamondback Brewing Company in Baltimore, MD, in January 2017. Marshall founded Diamondback shortly after graduating from Saint Michael’s. Brown, who sent the photo, is a candidate for a 2018 law degree from the University of New Hampshire School of Law.

ELAINE MULHERIN, Upland, CA, recently sent a package to the College, apparently guided by a well-developed Saint Michael’s conscience, in order to return an item she must have inadvertently taken possession of many decades ago. Elaine mailed a towel stamped “Foley Linen” to the College along with profuse apologies for having apparently taken it. She said she found it in her home while packing some things, so she washed it and mailed to back from California. Lou DiMasi, longtime employee in Student Life and former hockey coach, confirms that the Rutland-based Foley Linen “was on all campuses in Vermont back in the day … at Norwich in the ’70’s we got 3 towels and sheets weekly …

Don’t know Elaine but seems like a true Vermonter!!!”

See photo of the towel and note in top right corner of opposite page.

M1987 MOLLY LAMBERT, Swanton, VT, in January was named interim director of United Way of Northwest Vermont.

Molly, whose career is as an organizational management consultant, replaces former Executive Director Martha Maksym, who resigned her position with United Way of Northwest Vermont on January 5 to serve as Deputy Secretary of the State of Vermont Agency of Human Services. Molly’s previous leadership and community positions included interim executive director for Building Bright Futures, a statewide organization dedicated to improving the lives of Vermont children and families; State Director of USDA Rural Development, Secretary of the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development; and lead as President of the Vermont Captive Insurance Association and Executive Director of the Church Street Marketplace District in Burlington, Vermont.

M1993 KATHLEEN SAVILLE, Providence, RI, saw publication in February 2017 of her critically praised book, Rowing for My Life (Arcade Publishing). See the books section of this magazine for details.

Returned rented Foley Linen towel sent to St. Mike’s from Elaine Mulherin ’70.

Good Morning,

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CAITLIN BIANCHI, Essex

SUE MUSIAL BIGELOW,

Junction, VT, and her twin sister Cris Milks are currently team-teaching an education graduate course in mathematics at the College, shares their dad, George Toomey, Ft. Myers, FL, who writes, “Both are accomplished public school math teachers, administrators and innovators at the leading edge of their field. Our daughter’s mother is SMC Professor Emeritus Mary Frances Toomey. I have fond memories of these two girls hanging-out in Fran’s office and running the halls. I suppose I never let myself think that one day they would be right there themselves — especially as a duo. I’m very proud. They tell me that the course is going well, that they used virtual class techniques when other classes were canceled and that they’re pleased with the progress and anticipated student outcomes.”

Brandon, VT, is vice president of Health Coach Connect, LLC, which recently launched a health-coaching app that “ is at the forefront of a new movement in the health industry” to reverse and prevent chronic disease. “We provide a network of health coaches online through our web based mobile application. We offer programs and supportive services to assist and guide people with a variety of health concerns providing the tools they need to increase their longevity.

Our mobile platform makes it convenient and easy to use in order to promote sustainable changes,” she writes.

I loved the article “Who Paved the Way?” I was in graduate school and unable to attend the Symposium but I heard so many great things about it from my mother, Betty Henry, and my father, Dr. Edward Henry.

I also used the swag bag provided to all participants and given to me by my mother for many years. I thoroughly enjoyed Carey Kaplan as a teacher and person and consider her a great role model to this day.

While I didn’t really know Buff Lindau I heard many great things about her from my parents who held her in high regard.

I also remember Joan Reiss (now Wry) very well. She was an amazing runner, gifted student and all-around wonderful person. Jacqueline Murphy was also a star in my book.

I had a small role in promoting the female view at SMC. I put together and hosted the first “Women’s Music” hour on SMC’s radio. Carey Kaplan helped advise me on the music. The pushback from some of the male students was a surprise but we worked through it. It’s hard to believe how far we (women) have come in

our lifetimes. Thank you for helping those who came after us understand the history and struggles that women pioneers championed!

Best,

CLASS NOTES

LE TTE R T O TH E E DITOR

Mary Beth Henry 61

C AL L F O R L ETTE RS T O TH E ED I T O R Send us your thoughts, reactions to stories, memories, dreams, and reflections. We’ll get back to you, and let you know if we’d like to publish them.

E RRATA The photo on the inside back cover of the Fall/Winter 2016 issue was by Sarah Elizabeth Rogers ’17.

Our story on the Grand siblings, “The Alpine Ski Team: All in the Family,” contained a few errors: • Guillaume Grand was ninth in the slalom, not the giant slalom.

• Meggane came to the U.S. in 2014 and Guillaume joined her in 2015.

In Memoriam

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1943

1945

CHARLES E. SCAREY, CHARLOTTE, NC, died

JOHN FLAHERTY, North Adams, MA, died March 11, 2017. He attended Saint Michael’s with the Class of 1945 until 1943 when he joined Navy Flight School and became a Navy pilot. He was stationed in Brazil doing anti-submarine patrols, and was discharged as a lieutenant in early 1946 when he enrolled in the New England College of Optometry. Upon graduation he became associated with Dr. John Shea, then president of the American Optometric Association, and in 1950 opened his own practice in his hometown of North Adams, retiring in 1988. He was active in his parish, the American Legion and professional groups for optometrists He enjoyed bridge, woodworking, gardening and bowling. His wife of 70 years, Helen, died in 2016. He is survived by two sons, a sister and extended family.

October 22, 2016. After Saint Michael’s “Ned” joined the Army and served in in France, Belgium and Germany as part of the 271st Infantry Regiment. Just back from the war he briefly ran a taxi business out of the old Railroad Depot in North Bennington, VT, before meeting his wife and raising his family. He lived in Hoosick Falls, NY where he coached Little League baseball and was a Boy Scout leader and top softball player.

He also was active in the Knights of Columbus and Derby Club, and a faithful member of his parish. He worked for the Sprague Electric Company in North Adams, MA and Hillsville, VA for most of his working life. He loved gardening — both vegetables and flowers, particularly petunias, marigolds and roses. He enjoyed literature, history and genealogy, and traced his heritage to Ireland where he traveled and met relatives.

He loved baseball and was a lifetime Dodgers fan and avid Notre Dame football fan. His wife, Shirley, predeceased him. He is survived by two sons, three daughters, a halfsister and extended family.

1946 THOMAS J. RYAN, Center

Rutland, died December 12, 2016. Tom was a master sergeant in the Air Force during World War II from 1942 to 1945 in Africa and Italy. He played semi-professional baseball prior to employment with New

England Telephone for 20 years until his retirement, after which he was a private consultant and engineer for several companies. He was active in his parish, the Knights of Columbus as past deputy grand knight, Vermont Telephone Pioneers, the VFW and American Legion. He enjoyed reading, travel, politics, and playing hockey, baseball and golf. He is survived by wife, Mary Peg, two daughters, a sister and extended family.

1947 EDWARD J. HEMSWORTH,

Iverness, FL, died October 20, 2016. Ed was a New York City All-Star baseball player in high school and then played baseball and basketball on scholarship at Saint Michael’s. In 2002 he was inducted into the College’s Athletic Hall of Fame. When World War II broke out, Ed joined the Navy and served as a medic on a carrier in the Pacific, also learning to box and entertaining troops during his tour. He returned to Saint Michael’s to complete his degree on the GI Bill. After graduation he moved home to Staten Island and became a New York City fireman. Once, off-duty, he single-handedly rescued a family whose boat had capsized at night in the bay off Staten Island. When he

retired after 20 years with the fire department, he began a second career as a teacher while also managing a large summer swim team. He retired in 1978 to Florida and continued to substitute-teach and work in real estate. He was an avid golfer, and in younger days played and coached baseball and basketball. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Joan, a son, four daughters and extended family.

1948 EDWARD J. SARCIONE, North Andover, MA, died January 17, 2017. During World War II he was a combat infantryman with the 69th Infantry Division in France, Belgium and Germany from 1944-45, and was among the first American soldiers to link up with the Soviet Armies on the Elbe River in Germany in 1945, receiving several decorations. He was a graduate of Army Command, Medical and Industrial Colleges in Kansas, Texas and Washington State, respectively, and during 37 years of active and reserve service he reached the rank of colonel. After Saint Michael’s, Edward was selected to join a group sponsored by the University of Vermont and the State Department to study and

Edward is survived by his wife of 63 years, Dolores (“Dolly”), two sons, a daughter, a brother and extended family.

1949 FRANK A. MAZZA, Brandon, VT, died April 2, 2017. After Saint Michael’s he took graduate courses in administration at University of New Hampshire. Frank served in the Army in World War II in the European Theater, attaining the rank of Personnel Sergeant Major.

He lived in Brandon since 1965 after moving there from Pittsford. He was very active in his communities, chairing Otter Valley and Rutland Northeast Supervisory School Boards, serving as president of the Vermont School Boards Association, moderator for the Town of Pittsford and the RNSU, member of Pittsford school board, president of Pittsford Village Corporation and Rutland County School Directors Association, trustee of Brandon Area Rescue Squad and numerous other posts of responsibility overseeing state associations relating to probation/parole officers, state employees and personnel. He was a probation officer before going to work at the Brandon Training School where he was Director of Residential Care;

he was instrumental developing safety standards for community care homes. He retired in 1978 and served as a Brandon Selectmen. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, dogs, quarter horses, nature and the outdoors. He is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Barbara; two sons, two brothers and extended family.

THOMAS J. FERRARA,

Grand Prairie, IL, died January 31, 2016. He attended Williams College and Saint Michael’s Seminary before graduating from Illinois College of Optometry, and was an optometrist for 50 years. He was an Army and National Guard veteran and trained during World War II as a ski paratrooper.

He moved to Belvidere, IL, in 1963, opened his practice and began Family Optical Centre Inc. in 1974. He was a Rotarian with a four-year perfect attendance record and had been active in Kiwanis. He also was Belvidere alderman and school board trustee and was active in his parish and the Knights of Columbus. Tom enjoyed exercising at the “Y,” and loved the Chicago Cubs, singing, dancing, cards, world travel, meeting people and celebrating his Italian-American heritage. He earned a triple black belt in karate, biked through several states and joined team canoe

events. His wife of 53 years, Mary-Hope, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife Karen, three daughters, and extended family.

1950 REV. ROBERT M. LILLY, M.M., Maryknoll, NY, died

December 21, 2016. Father Lilly was a Maryknoll missioner to Korea for 44 years, working in South Korea from 1960 to 2004, serving as a pastor in the Cheongju Diocese for 30 years and as an English teacher at Konkuk University in Chungju for 12 years. He also was a member of the national committee that coordinated St. John Paul II’s two visits to Korea. After his 2004 retirement, he remained in Korea until returning to the U.S. last year.

He entered the Maryknoll in 1954 after serving two years in the Army, and professed his final vows in 1959. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1960. He earned a master’s in religious education from Maryknoll Seminary in Ossining, NY. He was the son of the former mayor of North Adams, MA. He is survived by extended family.

ROBERT F. O’CONNOR, Alexandria Bay, NY, died October 28, 2016. He served in the Navy during World

IN MEMORIAM

report on the Marshall Plan in Europe. He earned his doctorate in biochemistry from Kansas University in 1955 and joined the staff of Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, NY, as a cancer research scientist.

There he authored more than 75 original papers related to liver and breast cancer, and presented numerous lectures around the world. In 1967 he was awarded the prestigious Eleanor Roosevelt Fellowship of the American Cancer Society and spent a sabbatical year as a visiting professor at the French National Cancer Institute in Paris. He also was a professor at American College in France in 1968 and at Harbin University in China in 1986.

He served three years on the National Breast Cancer Task Force Committee of the National Cancer Institute in Maryland from 1976-79. In 1970 he was appointed professor and chair of the cell physiology program at the Roswell Park Division of the University of Buffalo, where he served until retirement in 1991. He was active in the Military Officers Association of America, the 69th Infantry Division Association (president), many science and research professional groups, and clubs focused on guns, trout-fishing, yachts and skiing. He also was active in his Methodist church in the greater Buffalo area.

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IN MEMORIAM 64

War II, and after Saint Michael’s continued his education at SUNY Albany.

He was a business teacher at Alexandria Central School for 30 years, retiring in 1981.

He also worked during the summer season as an inspector for the U.S. Immigration Service on Wellesley Island for 17 years.

Upon retirement from teaching he worked for Uncle Sam Boat Tours as a tour boat captain for 13 years. He was active in the American Legion and his parish, and was a sports enthusiast who enjoyed tennis, swimming, boating and snow skiing, taught youth tennis and swimming and coached high school basketball in Alexandria Bay. He is survived by his wife, DeVerde, three daughters and extended family.

REV. ARMAND J. BILL, Biddeford, ME, a priest of the diocese of Portland, died March 13, 2017. After high school he served in the Navy as a radio technician from 1943 to 1946 before enrolling at Saint Michael’s. He then completed his studies in philosophy and theology at St. Paul’s Seminary of the University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 26, 1956 in Portland, ME, and served parish assignments or did hospital ministry in the Maine communities of Eagle Lake, Wallagrass, Howland, Calais, Biddeford, Mexico, Millinocket, Ford Fairfield, Bay View, Westbrook, Saco, Lewiston, Auburn, Waterville; and as pastor, Green-

ville, North Vassalboro and Old Orchard Beach. He retired from active ministry in 1993. He listed no immediate survivors.

WILLIAM S. DONOVAN SR., South Windsor, CT,

died January 17, 2017. After high school Bill attended American International College where he played basketball for Hall of Fame Coach Ed Hickox. World War II interrupted his education and he enlisted in the Army, serving as a paratrooper in the 11th Airborne and attending the University of Chicago to become fluent in Japanese.

He was a Japanese interpreter in the Philippines until his honorable discharge. He was active in the VFW and was a Post Adjutant for nearly 20 years. Bill often shared his war experiences with youth.

He enrolled at Saint Michael’s after the war, and founded and regularly attended the Saint Michael’s Lunch Bunch in the Springfield, MA, area until no longer able to do so. He continued graduate work at Trinity College in Hartford in psychology and personnel management. Bill’s professional career was in human resources in the manufacturing industry. He founded and was president of Flynn & Donovan Recruiting. He also spent 23 years with the State of Connecticut, retiring as director of human resources for the Department of Mental Retardation in 1989.

He taught labor and employee relations as an adjunct at the University of Connecticut. He lived in South

Windsor, CT for more than 30 years before moving to Enfield with a house in Wellfleet, MA. He enjoyed travel, crossword puzzles, news, history and sports, and he was a season ticket holder for UConn sports teams for decades. In South Windsor he coached youth sports and enjoyed duckpin bowling, and he was a big fan of the Patriots and Red Sox. He is survived by three sons, a daughter and extended family.

1951 JOHN M. CARBONNEAU,

Tampa, FL, died December 22, 2016. An Army veteran, John taught history for three years before moving to Tampa in 1955. He worked for the American Cancer Society, Florida Division, retiring as vice president for Medical Affairs in 1986.

He was proud of helping create the first camp in the country for children with cancer (ROCK Camp), and coordinating construction of the first Hope Lodge to house patients without charge while receiving treatment for cancer away from home. For many years he was an official for the Florida Society of Clinical Oncology and Florida Tumor Registrars Association. He was active in his parish, a stamp collector and was a rail fan, particularly of his hometown of Island Pond, VT, and the Grand Trunk Railway that ran through it and was the first international railway in North America. He is

survived his wife, Elaine, a sister and extended family.

DONALD J. GERETY,

Sarasota, FL, died December 23, 2016. After Saint Michel’s he received a doctorate in dentistry from New York University in 1955 and spent several years in the Army as an active dental physician stationed in the state of Washington before returning east to begin a private practice in Chappaqua, NY, which he continued for four decades. He enjoyed skiing, hockey, hiking, sailing, biking tennis, the outdoors, carpentry, chess, model-ship building and reading. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joan, four sons, three daughters and extended family.

JOSEPH LEO LEBLANC,

Franklin, MA, died January 19. He lived in Lynn, MA, most of his life but had lived in New Hampshire and Norfolk, MA, after his retirement from a 36-year work career as an engineer for General Electric Company, before moving recently to Franklin. Leo served in the Army from 1951-1954, attaining the rank of sergeant.

He was an accomplished bridge player, avid golfer and very active in his parish. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ursula, three sons, two daughters, two brothers, a sister and extended family.

THOMAS W. MARKERT,

Bridgeport, NY, died February 7, 2017. He served in the Navy as a signalman aboard a destroyer in World War II. Tom retired from

DONALD J. RAINVILLE,

Plattsburgh, NY, died February 6, 2016. Don taught public school for 37 years in Black River and at Carthage Central schools in New York. He served in the Army during World War II in the Pacific theater. Don set up summer youth programs in Black River, coached youth hockey in Watertown and hosted science programs on WWNY-TV in the late 1950s. He was known for his exceptional vegetable garden stand at his home in Black River. Don is survived by his wife of 66 years, Gisele, three sons, a sister and extended family.

RICHARD J. DACEY, Conway, MA, died October 24, 2016. Though stricken with polio at age two, Dick never let it keep him from doing all he wanted. He had a long career as a teacher and school administrator, guiding generations through Conway Grammar School over the 33 years he served as principal.

He also was Conway library trustee for 30-plus years and cemetery trustee for 50 years after filling his father’s seat, and he was an election worker for the town. He loved cars, including his Model A Coupe, and was a lifelong Yankees and Patriots fan. He enjoyed travel,

especially cruises, and visited Europe, Alaska, and Hawaii.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Phylis, a stepson and extended family.

JOHN M. DONIGAN SR.,

Chelmsford, MA, died October 30, 2016. He served in the Navy during World War II and retired from Raytheon in Bedford, MA, in 1993. In his retirement years he worked for Courtesy Demos of Andover, MA. He was active in his parishes in Chelmsford and previously in Littleton, NH, when he lived there, and he was a volunteer for youth ministry.

He belonged to the Lions and the Elks, enjoyed gardening and cooking and was a sports fan. His wife, Marion, died in 2016. He is survived by three sons, five daughters and extended family including granddaughter Taryn Elacqua ’00 and Conor Robinson ’14.

1952 FRANCIS E. HARRISON, the Villages, FL, died November 17, 2016. He was a President’s Medallion Society supporter of the College including the Francis E. Harrison ’52 Family Scholarship. He served in the Navy from 1953-1955, and worked many years as a district manager for Kemper Insurance. Frank was devoted to the San Damiano Franciscan Third Order and dedicated enormous time volunteering with the St. Vincent de Paul Society and Hospice. He was active in alumni activities for his class

and had looked forward to his coming 65th reunion.

Frank enjoyed golf, bridge and cooking. His wife, Irene, died in 1989. He is survived by five daughters, two sons, a sister and extended family.

JOSEPH R. COLARUSSO,

Greenport, NY, died August 24, 2016. He had once been an executive vice president of Hazeltine, a Long Island defense contractor and subsidiary of St. Louis-based Emerson Electric. No information about survivors was available.

1953 JOHN W. KILGO, Plymouth,

NH, died April 8, 2017.

He owned and operated the Evelyn Wood Reading Dynamics in Boston for 25 years and later worked for Bank of Boston for four years before retiring in 1992.

Previously he had lived in France and worked for the U.S. State Department from 1953-54. He lived in Washington, DC from 1954 until 1962, then Holliston, MA, from 1962 to 1967 and later lived in Andover MA, and later Plymouth. A Tennessee native, he attended Tennessee Military Institute before graduating Summa Cum Laude from Saint Michael’s after Air Force Duty from 1946-49, and was valedictorian. Later he studied at the University of Poitiers in France and at Catholic University in Washington.

John’s wife of 66 years, Mary, died in 2015. He is survived by two sons, a daughter, a sister and extended family.

PAUL J. AUMAND, Bellows Falls, VT, died December 9, 2016. After Saint Michael’s he earned his master’s in engineering. He also was an all-American football and basketball player and was inducted into the Saint Michael’s College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995 as a member of the undefeated 1951 football team He was self-employed as a builder as Paul J. Aumand Construction and also worked for Aubuchon Hardware. He was active in the Elks and Polish American Club in Bellows Falls. He enjoyed practical jokes and pranks, but was best known for his support of community athletics facilities — making ice rinks, mowing sports fields, building dugouts and installing bases, and designing and constructing a full outdoor basketball court, eventually with lights, near his home. He insisted that children of all ages play and have fun, and he was a generous supporter of American Legion baseball.

His wife of 47 years, Eleanor, died in 1996. Paul is survived by five sons, three daughters, two brothers and extended family.

1954 RICHARD S. KOZIEJA,

Bellmawr, NJ, died April 4, 2014, the College learned recently. Richard served as a colonel in the Army during the Korean conflict and was a retired elementary school administrator for the Camden Board of Education

IN MEMORIAM

Lincoln Bank, where he had been an executive, and then pursued a new career in the automobile industry. He was predeceased by his wife, Monnie, in 2008. He is survived by two sons, two daughters, a sister and extended family.

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IN MEMORIAM 66

for 39 years. He had advanced education degrees from Rutgers and Villanova Universities and was a former Emergency Management Coordinator in Bellmawr. He was a member of the Polish American Chamber of Commerce (P.A.C.C.) of Camden County, where he served on the Board of Directors and was editor of the club newsletter. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Roberta, a son, two daughters and extended family.

ROBERT B. ROY, Salem, NH, died February 8, 2017.

An Air Force veteran of the Korean War, he worked at Raytheon Corporation of Andover, MA as a production control manager, retiring in 1992. He was a big fan of both professional and high school sports, and had played varsity basketball at Saint Michael’s. He enjoyed flower gardening, reading and big-band music. He’d lived in Salem for 58 years. His wife of 51 years, Naureen, died in 2010. He is survived by three sons, two brothers and extended family.

LEE P. BALDERELLI, Myrtle Beach, SC, died March 5, 2016. After studying business at Saint Michael’s, “Libby” (his given name was Libero) at one time lived in California, had a tax consulting business through numerous H&R Block offices based in Sacramento, and worked as president of Valiant Farms in Grass Valley, CA; once he even owned a minor league pro football team, the Sacramento Capitols of the

Continental League. He had been involved in real estate, stock trading, and other business ventures as well. He later lived in Incline Village, Nevada, and was self-employed in executive positions, according to old alumni surveys, which also indicated he had been married with children. No word was available about survivors.

1955 REV. DR. PAUL A. LACHANCE, Princeton, NJ,

died of Parkinsonism on January 21, 2017. Paul was an internationally recognized food scientist, responsible for the research and development of space food for NASA, and was a professor of Food Science at Rutgers University for over 40 years.

His work is foundational for food scientists around the world, and his development of what became the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) system has saved millions of people from becoming ill or dying.

Saint Michael’s College presented Paul with an Honorary Doctorate in 1982 and he was named Alumnus of the Year in 1999. The John C. Hartnett Endowment was established at Saint Michael’s College in 2000 by Paul and his wife Thérèse to honor Professor Emeritus John C. Hartnett for his dedication to excellence in teaching and his outstanding influence on biology and other students at the College, including Paul.

After Saint Michael’s, Paul earned the degree of Doctor of Physiology in Biology

from the University of Ottawa in Canada in 1960.

After his Air Force service at Wright Patterson base in Ohio, he left the USAF as a first lieutenant and became the first flight food and nutrition coordinator for the Manned Spacecraft Center at NASA in Houston. He later was recruited to teach at Cook College of Rutgers University where he completed groundbreaking and memorable work for over 40 years. He was Founding and Emeritus Director of the Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods Institute of the Center for Advanced Food Technology, and professor emeritus of food science at Rutgers since 2005. He chaired the Department of Food Science, directed the Graduate Program in Food science and was faculty representative to the Board Trustees and Board of Governors and was chairman of the university Senate. His received numerous high honors for his teaching and research over many decades and was invited to speak and work internationally. He has more than 400 publications to his credit. He was ordained a Permanent Deacon in the Roman Catholic Church in 1977 and appointed to serve at St. Paul’s Church in Princeton, NJ. Paul is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 61 years, Thérèse, three sons including Andre, a onetime sports information director at Saint Michael’s, a daughter, a sister, a brother and extended family including daughter-in-law Amy Lachance M’06. Read

more about Paul in a piece written about him by his son, Andre, at smcvt.edu/magazine.

DONALD G. WALSH SR., Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL, formerly of Milford, CT, died January 21, 2017. He served for many years on the Saint Michael’s College Board of Trustees and was honored in 2005 as Alumni of the Year.

Don was a longtime generous supporter of the College at the President’s Medallion Society level, including establishing the Beth Walsh Memorial Scholarship. After Saint Michael’s Don graduated from Georgetown Law School and had a 50-year career in the law. As a young man he excelled in basketball and later was an avid golfer.

He was a member of the Connecticut Trial Lawyers Association, Connecticut Bar Association and past president of the New Haven County Bar. A highlight of his career was being nominated and voted into the Best Lawyers of America, the oldest peer-reviewed ranking system for attorneys in the U.S. He was a longtime member of the New Haven Country Club and a social member at the Milford Yacht Club. Don enjoyed fine dining and for several years wrote restaurant reviews for the New Haven Register under the pseudonym, Lex Gourmand. For many years he spent each winter at his home in Florida, and he retired there full-time about 10 years ago. He was a fan of New York sports, and a season-ticket holder for the Giants, Knicks and his beloved Yankees. He enjoyed

a veteran of the Korean War. After Saint Michael’s he attended Rider College. Al owned and operated a successful lock and key service in the Binghamton area for 30 years.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Nancy, three sons, two daughters and extended family.

PETER B. SPILLANE,

DONALD J. DELEPPO,

Scituate, MA, died October 28, 2016. He retired from Comm Energy in Cambridge, MA, where he was vice president of public relations and advertising. He enjoyed flower gardening and walking his dog on the beach, and was a master ship model builder, Christmas decorator and avid New England sports fan. In earlier days he was active in the PTA, his parish, professional organizations for advertising and coaching Little League. He is survived his wife of 63 years, Suzanne, four sons, two daughters and extended family.

ERNEST G. BOUTOTE, East Greenwich, RI, died April 3, 2017. After Saint Michael’s, he earned his master’s in education from Boston University in 1956.

He was a guidance counselor for 37 years in the Warwick, RI, school system, and also was a golf coach. An avid golfer himself, Ernest enjoyed reading and painting and was an Eagle Scout. He is survived by his wife, Irene, a son, a daughter, a sister and extended family, including nephew James Flickinger ’84.

ALEXANDER P. “AL” CIULLA, Binghamton, NY,

died October 2, 2016. He was

Chelmsford, MA, died March 28, 2017. After earning his Saint Michael’s biology degree he served with the Air Force during the Korean War before working as a system analyst for Mitre of Bedford, MA, retiring in 1993. Previously he had worked for Raytheon. He was active in his parish and a CYO basketball coach. He also belonged to the Jaycees, American Legion, Knights of Columbus, and supported Chelmsford Little League, Girls’ Softball League, Pop Warner football and Chelmsford High sports boosters.

He enjoyed travel, golf and bocce ball. Donald spent winters in Boynton Beach, FL. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Carmel, two sons, three daughters, a sister and extended family.

1956 PAUL J. PALMER, Weston, MA/Fort Myers, FL, died February 7, 2017. He served on the College Board of Trustees from 1991 to 1997 and was named the 2006 Alumnus of the Year. Right after high school Paul joined the Marines and served during the Korean War. A Marine friend, Ray Doherty

(now Father Doherty, a senior Edmundite priest on the Saint Michael’s campus), told Paul about Saint Michael’s, and told the College’s baseball coach, Doc Jacobs, about Paul’s athletic skills since Paul and Ray had played together as Marines; one day Paul showed up, enrolled at Saint Michael’s and excelled at sports while a student, Fr. Doherty recalls. For the rest of his life, Paul was an active alumni and supporter of the College and was instrumental in getting its Military Heritage program off the ground, leading to a campus memorial for Paul’s classmate, the Vietnam-era posthumous Marine Medal of Honor winner Col. Donald Cook ’56, along with other important veterans programs and scholarships. Paul was a successful longtime executive at IBM for 36 years. He was an avid golfer all his life, contributed professionally on many boards including Cramer Productions, was active in his church and was a devoted caregiver for his wife of 57 years, Sarah, after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Sarah died in 2014.

Paul is survived by five sons including Paul Palmer, Jr. ’80, two daughters including Sarah Daigneault ’94, a brother, a sister, and extended family including grandchild Montana Palmer ’11.

JOHN W. “JACK” THOMPSON, Manchester, CT, died

October 26, 2016. After Saint Michael’s he earned his master’s degree in political science from the University of Connecticut. He was a Marine Corps veteran of the

Korean War. Jack served three terms on the Manchester Board of Directors from 1971-1977 and was mayor from 1971-1975 and deputy major from 1976-1977. He also served in the Connecticut Legislature as the representative of the 13th Assembly District. He served 13 consecutive terms between 1986 and 2012 and championed many causes in the Legislature relating to children’s and mental health issues, earning wide recognition for his work. He was predeceased by his wife, Elizabeth. He is survived by his wife, Carol, four sons, a daughter, two sisters and extended family.

1957 LOUIS A. DURSI, Somers, NY, died December 26, 2016.

Lou served as a corporal in the Army and attended a year at New York Law School. He previously had lived in Bedford, NY, and his work included president of Colonial Carpet Cleaning, a carpet sales and service business. Lou also had worked in automobile sales for a time. He was active in parish work and once belonged to the Lions. He enjoyed golf and playing cards, a perfect lawn, sharp clothes, shiny cars and the Yankees. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Diane, a son, two daughters including Cynthia O’Brien ’90, two brothers, a sister and extended family including son-in-law Kenneth O’Brien ’90.

IN MEMORIAM

family time and hosting parties, particularly Fourth of July celebrations at his Milford home. Don was predeceased by his daughter, Beth Walsh. He is survived by two sons, including Donald G. Walsh, Jr. ’81, a daughter, his former wife, Jeannine and extended family.

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IN MEMORIAM

1960

68

EDWARD R. GOYETTE, Colchester, VT, died March 5, 2017 from complications related to a stroke 13 years ago. After starting college at Holy Cross and joining ROTC he transferred to Saint Michael’s his second year and became a member of the College Drill Team.

Under his leadership they won three straight New England championships.

Upon graduating with an economics degree he was commissioned a 2nd lieutenant in the Air Force and served 24 years, the last 14 with the Green Mountain Boys of the Vermont Air National Guard 158th Fighter Wing. He was a skilled aviator and respected flight instructor who logged over 9,000 flight hours in his military career. He served a tour in Vietnam in 1966, and subsequently had many positions in maintenance, accident investigation, safety and training posts, along with being squadron commander. By retirement he had the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He loved travel, reading, history, mysteries and exploring with his kids, and was an avid fisherman, sports fan and supporter of his children’s sports and other activities. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carolyn, two daughters, three sons, a brother and extended family.

1961 CHARLES E. DRUKE, Weare,

NH, died January 12, 2017.

Charlie, a native Vermonter and youngest of 13 siblings, loved flying, and after College he flew fighters for the Green Mountain Boys in the Vermont Air National Guard. He settled in New Hampshire in 1969 and was active in Boy Scouts, Civil Air Patrol (cadet, senior squadrons, International Air Cadet Exchange program) and the Henniker Flying Club. He retired as a pilot from the military (Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard) and American Airlines. His brother was John Druke ’54.

He is survived by one son, four daughters, and extended family.

places he had lived included Pittsboro, NC and Cambridge, VT. He is survived by his wife, Julia, a son, two brothers, four sisters and extended family.

1962

1966

JAMES N. HURLEY, JR., Albany, NY, died September 28, 2016, the College learned recently. After Saint Michael’s he earned advanced degrees at Long Island University, SUNY Albany and the University of Vermont to prepare for his professional career as a secondary-school guidance counselor, including at Berne-Knox-Westerlo High School in Berne, NY. Jim shared in earlier alumni surveys that he had a daughter and a son. No word was available about survivors.

VINCENT S. VINCI, Palm

1965 RONALD E. BENOIT, Chapel Hill, NC, died December 26, 2015. He was a telecommunications manager for Nortel. Previous

LEONARD A. CARNEY, Ramsey, NJ, died April 4, 2017. Len was a President’s Medallion Society supporter of the College. He had been a top executive for firms including Capital Alternative Corporation, and Walsh Brothers, Inc. in Newark, NJ, and before that worked as a self-employed consultant, as a marketer in the publishing business, and was a venture capitalist. Survivors include his two sons.

Bay, FL, died November 29, 2016. After he retired from insurance sales in the 1990s Vinnie and his family relocated to Palm Bay. He was a President’s Medallion Society supporter of the College. While working as a substitute teacher in the Brevard County school system after retirement he also volunteered at a local nursing home and shrine.

Vinnie loved dogs and had owned several. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Donna, two sons and extended family.

PATRICK J. DELUCA, Newburgh, NY, Newburgh, NY, died February 1, 2017.

He was a professor of biology at Mount St. Mary College in Newburgh for 37 years, retiring in 2007. After Saint

Michael’s he earned a doctorate in microbiology from Fordham University in Bronx, NY, and received Medical Technologist (MT/ ASCP) Certification from St. Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury, CT in 1980. He served on the Board of Trustees at Hudson Heritage Federal Credit Union, volunteered for many years at Mother and Unborn Baby Care, was an active member of the Saint Michael’s Alumni Association and dedicated to his Catholic faith. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Rosalie, whom he married in the Chapel of Saint Michael the Archangel on campus in 1966, a son, Matthew DeLuca ’96, a daughter, Kristin Fitzgerald ’91, a brother, a sister, and extended family including son-inlaw Sean Fitzgerald ’02 and daughter-in-law Eileen DeLuca ’96.

1967 THOMAS P. CASSIDY,

Bayside, NY, died August 20, 2016. He had a very successful career in banking, including with Citibank in New York City. No information about survivors was available.

1968 PAUL S. DENTON, Barton, VT, died December 5, 2016. After Saint Michael’s he earned an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1970 before joining the Air Force and serving as a second lieutenant in the Philippines and Austin, TX. He was

1970 RONALD B. INGRAM, Berlin, CT, died November 28, 2016 from cancer. An accomplished chef, Ron was employed after Saint Michael’s at the Main Brace in Newport, RI, then at One Way Fare in Simsbury, Copper Beach Inn in Ivoryton, and Tuscany Grill in Middletown. He was an avid fly fisherman, outdoorsman, and musician, singing with choruses and playing guitar, Sousaphone and piano. In younger days while growing up in Simsbury he was founding president of the Simsbury Summer Theater for youth. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Rosalyn, a daughter, two sisters and extended family.

FRANCIS X. KOSCH JR., Ocola, FL, died May 12, 2012, the College learned recently. Alumni surveys in his College files show he also had lived at one time in Little Ferry, Bergen County, NJ, worked as a systems analyst for Atwood Corp., and been married to Mary. No word was available about survivors.

1971 ROBERT P. MCCAFFREY, Newmarket, NH, died suddenly November 30, 2016 while attending a conference in Georgia. After Saint Michael’s he earned a master’s in psychology from Assumption College in Massachusetts, and later pursued his doctorate in guidance and counseling at Springfield College before receiving his doctorate from Columbia University in New York. He also graduated from The Wharton School of Business for Hospital and Health Care Administration and Marketing at the University of Pennsylvania.

Robert spent his career advocating for and with people with chronic healthcare needs and disabilities, focused on inclusive opportunities in housing, education, employment and community. He was a healthcare executive director in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut and New Hampshire through his career, with his work earning numerous commendations from lawmakers in those states, and also from the U.S.

Congress. He also had lived in Fitchburg, MA, and Providence, RI. He authored/ co-authored more than a dozen training manuals and three books, and consulted in 15 states and the District of Columbia. Robert enjoyed skiing, golf and writing grants. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Kimberly; a daughter, a brother, two sisters and extended family.

1972 BROTHER PAUL R. LAUZE, S.C, Pascoag, RI, died February 7, 2017. Paul entered the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in 1961 in Rhode Island, pronouncing first vows in 1962 and perpetual vows in 1968. He finished his Saint Michael’s French degree over the summers of 1965-1972. In 2012 he celebrated his 50th anniversary of religious profession. He was a teacher at schools in Rhode Island, Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, and had an extended assignment at his alma mater, St. Dominic High School in Lewiston, Maine, where he taught French, religious studies and moderated the Key Club. He retired after 20 years at Mt. St. Charles Academy in Woonsocket, RI, and moved to the Brothers’ retirement residence in 2014. He loved cooking for his community, gardening and watching sports, particularly high school hockey. He is survived by three sisters and extended family.

1973 JOHN WAKEFIELD ANGUS III, Mclean, VA, died

December 10, 2016. John was a retired lobbyist and lawyer following a successful professional career that brought him to the Washington, DC, area. After Saint Michael’s, where he was student body president, he attended law school at George Washington University. His career started at the Federal Maritime Commission, and law relating to the shipping and maritime industry became his passion. He became partner at Preston Thorgrimson Elis & Holman (know K&L Gates) and later a founding partner of the Duberstein Group. He was dedicated to promoting the maritime industry, ultimately as leader of The Propeller Club. John was a President’s Medallion Club supporter of the College. He is survived by his wife, Debora ’75, three daughters, three brothers including Peter Angus ’79 and Jeffrey Angus ’78, a sister, and extended family, including sister-in-law Margaret Angus ’79.

1974 RICHARD D. KEANE, Peachtree City, GA, died December 9, 2016. He was employed by the Federal Prison System and Fayette County Schools. He is survived by his wife, Betty, two sons, two brothers, including Christopher ’74, two sisters, and extended family including his brotherin-law Paul Zimmerman ’67.

IN MEMORIAM

employed at several companies over the years, using his finance skills to manage and support businesses, including Northern Community Investment Corp. in St. Johnsbury. In the 1990s he was manager of the Vermont Economic Development Authority. He had lived in Rutland for a time and was controller of the Pico Peak Ski area, and also a manager of G.H. Grimm Company in Rutland, Bolton Valley Corporation and International Coins and Currency in Montpelier. Though “retired” his last employer was St. Johnsbury Paper Company. In the 1980s Paul was chairman of the local school board in Barre. He is survived by three daughters, a brother and extended family.

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IN MEMORIAM 70

Joyce and Paul Zimmerman ’67 made a notable gift recently in memory of Richard D. Keane in this, Paul’s 50th Reunion Year.

1975 WARREN BLUNT, Bridgeport, CT, died December 30, 2016. He was Bridgeport’s longtime Director of Environmental Health and a lifelong resident of the city. After earning his Saint Michael’s English degree he taught at Bassick and Warren Harding High Schools and the University School before going on for a master’s in public health from Southern Connecticut State University. He joined Bridgeport’s Department of Public Health and served the city for 34 years. He was active in the men’s fellowship and a former trustee of his Baptist church. An establishment Democrat, he also was a former Councilman in the 135th District and a District political leader, and he served as a State Boxing Commissioner. He is survived by his companion, Audrey Gaines, a daughter, two brothers and extended family.

1979 C. GISELLA OPPEDISANO, Norwell, MA, died December 8, 2016 from a major cardiac event. She was executive assistant to Paul DiMaura of Hillside Management Company for more than 25 years, and in earlier years had worked for

American Overseas, Braintree Companies and First National Bank of Boston. After Saint Michael’s she studied at Georgetown University and at Boston College where she did graduate studies and taught courses in elementary Italian.

She was an accomplished linguist, speaking five languages. In the past years she also was a realtor and had earned the honor of Top Listing Agent for her firm’s Norwell office. She planned to be in Honduras in January for her third mission trip for Mission Honduras through First Baptist Church in Hingham. She served as co-treasurer for the organization and contributed regularly to her other favorite charities: the American Indian Foundation and the Disabled Veterans of America. She was parishioner at St. Paul Catholic church in Hingham, and loved cooking and gardening. Gisella is survived by a fiancé, Alwyn Velasquez, two sons, a stepdaughter and stepson, a sister, a brother and extended family.

1987 ROBERT J. MINOGUE, Queensbury, NY, died April 8, 2017. He began a long career with Minogue’s Beverage Center right after college and ultimately became the vice president.

He was very active in his parish in Granville while living in Queensbury, where he was devoted in caring for his mother. While at Saint Michael’s he was involved in

the building of an Edmundite-sponsored youth center in Selma, AL, and during the project he learned carpentry and woodworking skills that he used in completing much of the finish work in his own home. He was an avid hunter and outdoorsman and had been a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Elks. He is survived by his mother, a brother, three sisters and extended family.

1995 CARI R. WIDMYER, San Francisco, CA (formerly of Roslyn Heights, NY) died June 29, 2016 in a tragic traffic accident while bicycling. After Cari graduated from Saint Michael’s she lived and worked in Manhattan for a number of years.

In 2006, she earned her MBA from Columbia University.

Soon after she was a senior sales consultant for Google in New York and then San Francisco. In July 2015, she left Google to pursue other goals — chiefly, she said, the happiness of deeper connections to family, friends and community. During her last year Cari became a certified Sivananda yoga teacher and taught weekly classes in San Francisco. She also studied at Bauman College to become a nutritionist.

She traveled extensively and in 2015 walked the El Camino de Santiago pilgrimage; her experience influenced her to become a Eucharistic minister for the elderly in her community; she also was a snowboarder and always had the perfect

outfit for any occasion.

Survivors include her parents, a sister and extended family.

MAS T ER ’S DEGREE GRADUATE S

M1958 THOMAS H. GENO, Proctor, VT, died November 27, 2016 after living for some time with advancing vascular dementia. Tom worked diligently for many years in the archives of the Society of Saint Edmund to produce an insightful history of the Edmundites’ challenging years moving to Vermont, saying he wanted to give back to a community that helped guide him as a young man while attending Saint Michael’s. He taught Latin and French at the high school and college levels and earned his doctorate at University of Vermont, where he taught together with his wife, Marie, for more than 25 years. There he co-founded the V.O.S.P. foreign exchange and specialized in theater, French-African literature and pedagogy He was active in foreign language associations and earned awards for his involvement and teaching.

He studied, taught and lectured around the world including Indochina and Africa. He was involved in theater at UVM and in community ensembles including Burlington’s Lyric Theater. He loved reading, music, Hollywood and languages from an early age.

He is survived by his wife, Marie, a son, a stepdaughter and extended family.

SISTER RUTH BUSSHAUS, RSM, Brighton NY, died December 29, 2016. She worked as a secretary for seven years for Corning Glass in Corning before entering religious life in 1958.

She earned education and religious education degrees and was certified in clinical pastoral education. She taught in elementary and high schools in the dioceses of Rochester and Buffalo and worked in school offices.

She also taught theology at a school on the island of Guam for four years. In the Rochester area, she served parishes in various roles and did hospital ministry. She is survived by extended family.

M1 9 7 8 DALE M. PORTER, Margate, FL, died April 5, 2017. He relocated from Barre, VT to Florida in 2002 after living in Vermont his whole life. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Lyndon State before pursuing his Saint Michael’s master’s. Early in his career he was a history teacher and guidance counselor in Richford, VT, followed by 26 years in guidance in Chester and Barre until his 1992 retirement. He then worked for 15 years as a testing administrator for Experior Testing Corporation in Barre, and after that for Enterprise

M1979 JOANNE BEAUPRE JUDGE,

Salem, MA, died February 14, 2014. She entered religious life with the Sisters of Ste. Chretienne in Quebec, Canada in 1961 right after high school and took the name St. Jeanne Theresa. She taught primary grades and CCD in Rhode Island and Maine for many years and earned a bachelor’s in 1972 at Annhurst College in Connecticut before her Saint Michael’s master’s. She later took a sabbatical year and studied spirituality in Rome before returning to life at the House of Prayer in Newport, RI. In 1984 she transitioned from religious life and moved to Fall River, MA, where she was a high school guidance counselor.

After retiring, she worked at a museum and volunteered caring for Alzheimer’s patients. In 2005 she married Jerome Judge, who survives.

Survivors also include Jerry’s son and daughter, three brothers and extended family.

M1980 SISTER ELLEN MICHAEL SCHAFER, OSF, Allegany,

NY, died April 5, 2017. She entered the Franciscan

Sisters in Allegany in 1945 and professed final vows in 1952. She devoted herself to her congregation for more than 70 years. Before entering the Franciscans she earned an education bachelor’s at St. Elizabeth Teacher College in Allegany (now part of Bonaventure University) in 1963. She taught in Florida, Virginia and New York for many years, before starting religious education and home visitation ministries in 1969.

She took on religious education leadership posts in western New York for two decades starting in 1981 before retiring to the Motherhouse in 2002. She is survived by extended family.

M1988 JAMES E. VAN ORDEN III,

Essex Junction, VT, died October 29, 2016 from ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Long Island University-Southampton in 1967. Jim worked more than 40 years in banking in Vermont and New York, retiring in 2014.

He was active in his community as a youth sports volunteer coach and referee, was on the Burlington YMCA advisory board and was active with Rotary, United Way and as a Red Cross blood donor (over 17 gallons). He loved hunting, camping, hiking, cards, particularly cribbage at his camp, and he hiked the entire Long Trail. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, JoAnn, a son, two daughters, and extended family.

M1994 SUSAN L. MESLER, Barefoot Bay, FL/ Berlin, VT, died tragically on February 26, 2017, in Florida when she was hit by a car as a pedestrian. She received her bachelor’s degree from Norwich University and master’s in Specialized Education from Saint Michael’s. She worked with children and adults with psychological and physical challenges and taught special education in Northfield, Calais and Roxbury schools in Vermont, and most recently at Operation Hope in Florida. Susan loved arts, reading and writing, hiking, biking, kick-boxing, rollerblading, swimming, kayaking, travel, camping, horsebackriding, gardening, music, dogs and cooking. She is survived by her daughter, a grandson, her former companion of 30 years and their foster son in Vermont, her mother, father and stepmother, two brothers, a sister, several stepbrothers and stepsisters, and extended family.

DOROTHY F. MONSARRAT,

Rutland/Monkton, VT, died March 15, 2017. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Dominican College before her Saint Michael’s master’s and taught religion for many years at Regis School of the Sacred Heart in Houston, Teas. She is survived by a daughter and two sons.

IN MEMORIAM

M1 9 7 6

Rental in Florida. He was active in Kiwanis and the Knights of Columbus, and loved sports, including coaching and mentoring. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Linda, a son, a daughter, two brothers, a sister and extended family.

71

IN MEMORIAM

FA C U LTY, STA FF, A ND F R IE N DS

72

Burlington, VT, died March 2, 2017. For many years she was a dispatcher and switchboard operator for the College, and after retiring she enjoyed volunteering at the Heineburg Senior Center. She is survived by her husband of 20 years, William, who once worked as a locksmith for the College, and by a stepdaughter, a brother and extended family.

employers. He was very active in Burlington-area civic affairs, too, particularly in transportation and building matters including key federal sites. He also had been South Burlington selectman, chairman and city councilor, and active in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla; also, a member of Kiwanis, the Ethan Allen Club, F&AM, Shriners and Elks. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Elizabeth, three daughters and extended family.

CHARLES H. BEHNEY,

CRAIG A. JENSEN,

PAMELA D. DUMAS,

Burlington, VT, died April 1, 2017. In the 1990s he had served on the Saint Michael’s College Associate Board of Trustees. He served eight years in the Naval Reserve and was a graduate of the Oklahoma Industrial Development Institute. He also served in an engineer company of the Vermont Army National Guard including active duty during the Berlin Crisis, and retired in 1991 as Chief Warrant Officer with the rank of Brigadier General with the Vermont State Guard. He was active in the American Legion, served Vermont in the Snelling administration as Secretary of Development and Community Affairs and on numerous other state boards addressing housing, transportation, economics, finance, vocational and historic preservation issues. He was President of GBIC and Cynosure for 20 years, retiring in 1996. He developed two new Industrial Parks in the greater Burlington area, and directed many building projects for his

Shelburne, VT, died March 13, 2017. He was a lecturer in mathematics at the College at the time of his death.

He grew up in Pennsylvania, New Mexico, and at last Utah where he graduated high school as a Sterling Math Scholar. As a teenager and young adult he loved mathematical theory, computers, developing computer games and challenging others to break secret codes he wrote.

He had a mathematics bachelor’s from Utah State, a master’s from University of Wisconsin and his doctorate from Cornell. He became a tenured professor of mathematics at the University of New Orleans and was there from 2002 until 2015, when he moved to Vermont and began lecturing in mathematics at Saint Michael’s.

Craig is survived by his wife of 15 years, Elizabeth, three daughters and extended family.

DANIEL R. GOODRICH, SR.,

Essex Junction, VT, died January 17, 2017. “Tony” worked for a time at Saint

Michael’s including as a bus driver, as well as for Hayward Tyler Pump, IBM, Green Mountain Transit, and as a Duty Sheriff. He was an Air Force veteran of the Air Police. He loved the football New York Giants and Red Sox baseball, as well as hunting, bird-watching and the outdoors. He is survived his wife of 35 years, Diann, three daughters, a son, a stepson, four brothers, a sister and extended family.

TRAVIS N. GRAY, Saint

Johnsbury, VT, died October 30, 2016. A native of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom and a 1991 graduate of Bryant College in Rhode Island, Travis worked in fundraising at Lyndon State, Middlebury and Saint Michael’s and finally at the University of Hawaii.

ALGERNON ELLIEN,

Mendham, NJ, died January 23, 2017. He was a major donor to the College including scholarships through The Isabel & Algernon M. Ellien Foundation, Inc., and also was father of Michael Ellien ’93 and father-in-law of Michael Cunniff ’67, who is married to Algernon’s daughter, June.

Algernon served in the Navy in the Pacific Theater during World War II from 1944-46, earning several medals. Upon his return he attended Long Island University and worked for Bank of America as a foreign exchange dealer until June 1961 when he left the bank to join a small foreign exchange company that later became Noonan, Astley and Pearce, Inc. He retired as the firm’s executive vice president

in 1991. He moved to Mendham in 1975. His wife of 50 years, Isabel, died in 2004. He is survived by two daughters, two sons and extended family.

ROBERT A. LANNA, New Canaan, CT, died May 23, 2015. He served on the Saint Michael’s College Board of Trustees from 1983 to 1989. A graduate of Hartwick College, Bob had a highly successful career in the insurance industry including executive positions at major companies, partner at the Dowler Agency on Long Island, NY, and founder and sole proprietor of Personal Financial Services in New Canaan. An Army veteran of the Korean War, he was awarded the Purple Heart.

Bob was active in community service all his life and generously supported many charitable organizations, including as a board member at ABC House of New Canaan and president of the Mental Health Association of Nassau County where he named Man of the Year. He also was active in youth sports as a coach and Little League commissioner and was founder and president of a junior tennis league. A longtime member of the Lake Club in Wilton, he enjoyed skiing, tennis and paddle tennis, and was a fan of the New York Yankees and Giants.

He is survived by his wife, Catherine, two sons, a daughter and extended family.

“IT IS AMAZING TO COME TO A PLACE WHERE EVERYONE AROUND YOU ONLY WANTS YOU TO SUCCEED. STRANGERS WILL OFFER A HELPING HAND, HOLD THE DOOR, OR SIMPLY SMILE JUST TO LET YOU KNOW THAT YOU ARE LOVED. YOU CAN FEEL THIS LOVE THROUGHOUT CAMPUS….WE TAKE WITH US NOT ONLY OUR DIPLOMA OR OUR CAP AND GOWN, BUT ALSO THE SPIRIT OF SAINT MICHAEL’S AND THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE THIS PLACE WHAT IT IS. THAT SPIRIT LIVES ON. IT PROPELS US FORWARD TO MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE JUST LIKE THOSE THAT HAVE GONE BEFORE US HAVE ALREADY DONE SO WELL. IT IS UP TO US TO GO OUT AND MAKE CHANGE IN OUR WORLD.” — Michael McCarthy ’17, Undergraduate Commencement Address

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