A late-season snowstorm swept through southern Minnesota in early March, draping the Shattuck-St. Mary’s campus in nearly a foot of glistening snow. While our campus trees bowed under the icy weight, our historic stone buildings and archways stood beautifully stoic against the storm. For alumni, this scene may evoke memories of snowball fights on the Parade Field, hushed winter walks along the campus paths, and the satisfying crunch of boots on freshly fallen snow. Yet, the beauty was fleeting — just a week later, temperatures soared to 75, melting winter’s frosty encore and ushering in the warmth of spring.
We are a global learning community that honors tradition while embracing innovation. By cultivating creative, independent thinking, we foster the transformation of our students to become citizens of integrity for an ever-changing world.
Shattuck-St. Mary’s School community, with its strong commitment to protecting human rights and dignity, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin in its admissions and scholarship programs, the administration of its educational, athletic, or other school programs, or its employment practices.
9 A DAY IN THE LIFE: ENGINEERING IN THE LONE STAR STATE
SSM Engineering students traveled to Texas to present their NASA HUNCH projects and explore hands-on applications of real-world engineering.
ALUMNI FUEL
THE FUTURE
Meet the alumni who are giving back with purpose— supporting students, strengthening programs, and ensuring the SSM experience continues for generations to come.
From athletes to entrepreneurs, our Alumni Spotlight Instagram series showcases the inspiring and varied journeys of SSM graduates around the world.
ON THE COVER:
Alum and current Trustee Fred Krahmer ’88 shares a moment of connection and conversation with Adelina Mukhametzhanova ’26 on the ShattuckSt. Mary’s campus. Fred is one of several alumni featured in Alumni Fuel the Future (pg. 11), a story celebrating those who give back to support the next generation.
PHOTO: MEGAN MASCHOFF
Matt cavellier | head of school
Several weeks ago, I met alum, Chris Sutton '08, for dinner in Irvine, California. That in and of itself is not unusual; I make it a point of visiting with alums when I am in their area. It is always a wonderful opportunity to hear about their distanced view of their years at Shattuck-St. Mary's School, and learning about all they have been up to since their graduation is exciting, too.
Over the last several months, Chris has been working with Brycen Eberwein '05, a member of our Development Office, to continue to gather updated contact information for graduates who, like Chris, participated in our Soccer Center of Excellence (COE) while students here. As we celebrate twenty years of our Soccer COE, it was fun to sit with Brycen and Chris and think about all the students who have come through our school–soccer players or not–and the contributions they made on campus to create the community we have today.
For the most part, this conversation was similar to so many conversations I have with alumni across the country. The magic of time and distance does indeed give people space to reflect on their high school years and gain an appreciation for all they have accomplished. It is normal for me to be asked questions about how the School is going currently, told about their favorite spaces on campus, and, more than you would know, confessed to about some transgression that went unknown.
In this case, however, Chris said something to me I had never heard before when he shared I was his first classroom teacher at SSM. First period. First day of school. I have to admit, my initial thoughts at this news are not publishable. As we continued our conversation, my mind was preoccupied with so many questions: What impression did I make? Did I represent myself and the School well? In what reality should 28-yearold me be someone's first impression of classes at SSM?
As educators, we hope to make impressions on our students. We hope to
see them grow in their critical thinking. We want them to have the tools to be successful as they move on to college and life beyond. The thing is, though, we don't always know or control what our students take away from their time with us. We just hope it is something that leads positively to their development as individuals. The same is true for those who choose to give back, be it time, talent, or treasure.
This issue of Through the Arch is a celebration and a call to continued action. In these pages, we highlight several individuals who have chosen to support our school in various ways because they believe we are doing work that leads positively to the development of our students. They know the ways in which an education at SSM changes the trajectory of young people's lives.
As we continue to do this good work–work for which there is growing need–we will continue to look to our supporters to help us make a Shattuck-St. Mary's School education an attainable goal for mission-appropriate students regardless of their financial situation. The value
This issue of Through the Arch is a celebration and a call to continued action.
of an independent school education cannot be overstated, and our independence is, in no small part, what allows us to continue to educate our students in the ways we have for the last century and a half.
So, as you enjoy the stories of philanthropy in this issue, it is with our whole-hearted thanks that we celebrate all of our donors for their continued support. Without you, we would not have a school. Every dollar of every donation ultimately allows more students to attend SSM; I, for one, cannot think of a more compelling reason to give.
Matt Cavellier SSM Head of School
2024-2025 OFFICERS, TRUSTEES, AND ADMINISTRATION
Officers
Matthew Cavellier Head of School
The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya Honorary Chair
Tamara Kloeckl Nelsen ’80
Chair
Fred W. Krahmer ’88
Vice Chair
Megan Trout ’04
Secretary
Theo Lubke ’85
Treasurer
TrusTees
H.J. "Jack" Dane ’75 Davenport, Iowa
Jonathan Hancock Belmont, North Carolina
Paul Jeremiassen ’62 Whitefish, Montana
Fred W. Krahmer ’88 Fairmont, Minnesota
Theo Lubke ’85
Aurora, Colorado
Joel MacIntosh ’86 Wayzata, Minnesota
Tamara Kloeckl Nelsen ’80 Woodbury, Minnesota
Tim O’Keefe
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Trevor Putrah ’93 Edina, Minnesota
Chris Silge ’81
West Palm Beach, Florida
Jonathan Smith ’96
Twentynine Palms, California
Ruthie Sudderth ’02 Lansing, Michigan
Megan Trout ’04 Chicago, Illinois
Bruce R. Tuomala ’78 Roxbury, Connecticut
Ruth Schenck Wiegand ’97 Lakeville, Minnesota
AT LArge
McLean Donnelly ’03
David Duncombe ’79
Michael Johnson ’94
Shelly Krahmer
Sonja Johnson Kleinberg ’88
Chris Robinson
Kurt Simer ’99
Chris Watters ’93
ex OfficiO
Nicky Lunderby
TrusTee emeriTi
Sharon Hoffman Avent ’64
Ed Carpenter ’60
Linda Stone Dasher ’56
Dan Gislason ’62
Abby Carlstrom Humphrey ’62
Fred C. Krahmer ’60
Hugh Wooldridge ’55
AdminisTrATiOn
John Blackmer
Director of Community Life & Campus Security
Tristen Brown
Director of Health Services
Matthew Cavellier Head of School
Nick Cobbett ’85
SSMES Chief International Officer
Michele Cornish
Director of Athletics
Amy Horstman Cox ’94 Director of Auxiliary Programs
Sarah Flagstad Director of Residential Life
Andrew Garlinski ’98 Director of Admissions
Robert Gutwein ’95
Director of Counseling
Rev. Colin Maltbie School Chaplain
Megan Maschoff
Director of Communications
Mike Maxwell Director of Development
Amy Miller
Assistant Middle School Director
Mark Olson Director of Technology
Daniel Ray Director of Studies
Scott Ryberg
Chief Financial Officer
Patrick Schaefer
Upper School Director
Erin Sellner
Chief Human Resources Officer
Stephanie Vagle
Associate Head of School for Academics
Sofia Viruly
Middle School Director
Executive Assistant to the Head of School and Board of Trustees
Amy Woolf Parents’ Association President
The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya
X Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Minnesota
SCHOOL NEWS
Shattuck-St. Mary’s to Open School in Vietnam in Fall 2025
Building on its legacy of innovation and global vision, Shattuck-St. Mary’s will open a new international campus in Haiphong, Vietnam, in the fall of 2025. The school will bring SSM’s mission—preparing students to be citizens of integrity in an ever-changing world—7,758 miles from Faribault to a dynamic and growing region of Southeast Asia.
Shattuck-St. Mary’s International School Vietnam will be developed in partnership with entrepreneur and education advocate John Huh, whose wife, Lauren Kim, attended ShattuckSt. Mary’s in the 90s. Inspired by her formative experience at SSM, the couple has been instrumental in bringing the School’s distinctive approach to education to Vietnam. The new campus will serve both local and international families with a K-12 program that reflects the academic rigor and personalized learning SSM is known for.
Located near Hanoi, the coastal city of Haiphong is one of Vietnam’s fastest-growing economic hubs. It was recently named one of the first cities in the country to commit to green growth and sustainable development—values that closely align with SSM’s vision of responsible global citizenship and forward-looking education.
Students at Shattuck-St. Mary’s International School Vietnam will experience the same transformative education that generations of alumni know well. Rooted in the belief that learning should be personal, purposeful, and globally minded, the school will offer signature programs like ScholarShift®, which fosters independence and critical thinking, and weCreate®, where curiosity becomes innovation.
The campus will also open with one Center of Excellence—golf—building on the strength and reputation of the Golf COE in Faribault. Students will receive elite coaching from dedicated professionals while pursuing academic excellence, preparing them to compete at the collegiate level and beyond.
In preparation for the school’s opening, SSM-VN elementary principal Darrin Barker
and secondary principal Steve Wilson visited the Faribault campus this February. During their visit, they met with members of the academic and administrative teams, observed classes, and immersed themselves in the School’s culture and traditions. The experience provided valuable insight into the heart of Shattuck-St. Mary’s—its people, programs, and enduring values—which they will carry with them as they help bring the SSM mission to life in Vietnam.
“Shattuck-St. Mary’s International School Vietnam will be more than just an international extension of our school—it will be a vibrant new community where students grow through meaningful relationships, real-world learning, and a strong sense of purpose,” stated Nick Cobbett ’85, Chief International Officer of SSM Educational Services. “It will reflect the same spirit, values, and educational experience that define our Minnesota campus, just in a new part of the world.”
In February, Darrin Barker (top photo, third from left) and Steve Wilson (top photo, fifth from left) of SSM-VN visited Faribault to meet with administrators, faculty, and staff as they work to open their campus.
The new Shattuck-St. Mary’s International School Vietnam, set to open in the fall of 2025.
BioScience Students Learn from Visiting Experts
This year, students in Shattuck-St. Mary’s BioScience Center of Excellence didn’t have to leave campus to experience real-world science in action—they simply opened the lab door.
Throughout the academic year, the program welcomed a series of visiting professionals whose expertise offered students a first-hand look into the world of modern medical research and practice. From airway management to surgical techniques and genetic research, each visit deepened students’ understanding and brought classroom concepts to life.
In November, longtime friend of the program Dr. Mike Wilcox visited campus to lead a hands-on training session in emergency airway management. Students practiced using a laryngoscope and learned how to intubate a mannequin, gaining valuable insight into high-stakes scenarios that emergency medical professionals face.
A month later, Dr. Jamie Lopez, a researcher and professor at the University of Texas at Austin, spent three days working sideby-side with students in the lab. Dr. Lopez shared his current
research in yeast genetics and introduced students to the techniques and theoretical foundations that underpin his work. The visit offered students the rare opportunity to engage in active research conversations and see how scientific inquiry unfolds at the university level.
In March, Dr. Parker Eberwein—a urologic surgeon and father of Brycen Eberwein ’05, as well as Lauren and Sydney, both of whom attended SSM—led a surgical suturing workshop with the BioScience classes. Under his expert guidance, students practiced making and closing incisions, gaining not only valuable technical skills but also a deeper appreciation for the precision and patience demanded in the operating room.
“My experiences with the guest doctors who have visited SSM have been nothing short of a privilege,” said Amaya Fernandez ’27. “I’ve learned things you can’t get from a textbook, and their wisdom has truly inspired me and my classmates. I’m incredibly grateful they’ve made time in their busy schedules to support our community.”
SSM Embarks on New Branding Initiative
For the first time in over a decade, ShattuckSt. Mary’s is undergoing a comprehensive rebranding effort aimed at honoring the School’s storied past while powerfully expressing who we are today.
This initiative, developed in partnership with the nonprofit-focused branding firm Generation, marks the School’s first brand refresh since 2014. That year, SSM collaborated with Atlanta-based agency Mindpower to develop the “ALL IN” tagline, a phrase that has since become a familiar expression of school spirit and commitment.
“This rebrand goes far beyond updating our visual identity,” said Megan Maschoff,
Director of Communications. “It’s about telling our story with greater clarity and impact—connecting not only with those already in our community but with those we’re eager to welcome in the future.”
The rebranding process began in the fall of 2024 and has been highly collaborative, involving interviews and focus groups with students, faculty/staff, alumni, and trustees. Generation, known for its strategic work with mission-driven organizations, has brought a thoughtful, research-based approach to the process. Their goal: to help SSM uncover and articulate what the community already knows and feels to be true—just more clearly, creatively, and consistently.
The refreshed identity will include updated visual elements such as logos, typography, and color palettes, as well as new messaging that aligns with the School’s purpose and priorities. While no official launch date has been set, elements of the new brand will begin rolling out as they are finalized.
“We see this process as an opportunity to reaffirm our status as a school of excellence,” said Matthew Cavellier, Head of School, “and the collaborative nature of the work unifies us as a school focused on celebrating its past by leaning into its future.”
Dr. Mike Wilcox works with Jasmina Kleensang ‘26 to guide her through the intubation process.
Dr. Parker Eberwein teaches BioScience students the art of surgical suturing, in which he has many years of experience.
Researcher Dr. Jamie Lopez directs Cassie Brown ‘26 (left) and Jack Benavides ‘26 (right) through a variety of laboratory activities in which they learned techniques used to study yeast genetics.
A Day in the Life: Engineering in the Lone Star State
For the second year in a row, the Shattuck-St. Mary’s Engineering Center of Excellence has had the unique opportunity to participate in NASA HUNCH—which stands for “High School Students United with NASA to Create Hardware.” SSM students selected their own projects and teams, dedicating months of hard work to developing their out-of-this-world ideas. This spring, the Engineering COE traveled to Houston, Texas, where they not only presented their projects at the University of Houston-Clear Lake but also explored Space Center Houston and ventured to Galveston to study real-world engineering in action.
ENGINEERING IN ACTION
Engineering is a broad discipline with many diverse specializations, and the Engineering Center of Excellence at Shattuck-St. Mary’s offers students a fully engaging experience in this field. Through real, hands-on design and fabrication opportunities, the program immerses students in the world of engineering while preparing them for the challenges of college and beyond.
From left to right: Engineering COE Director Alex Jones, Aiden Park ’28, Kelvin Fu ’26, Eduardo Solis ’26, Jason Seo ’26, Amy You ’28, and Amelia Zhang ’28
HOUSTON, WE HAVE SOME ENGINEERS!
The Engineering COE kicked off their trip at the University of HoustonClear Lake, participating in one of several regional Critical Design Review (CDR) events alongside other high school teams.
Representing Shattuck-St. Mary’s, students showcased two innovative designs: a lunar camper and an ejection robot. The lunar camper is a scaled model designed for astronaut living and working away from the main lunar base, emphasizing transport and deployment. The ejection robot features a system that launches a robotic vehicle from a lunar lander, allowing it to navigate autonomously and capture images.
SSM students collaborated with peers and engaged with NASA’s Glenn Johnson, a mentor. Their efforts paid off—both SSM teams were recognized as semi-finalists, placing them among the top competitors nationwide.
“It was a great opportunity to see how engineering and technology have been applied to our daily lives. Exploring new places and learning outside the classroom made this an unforgettable journey.”
− Jason Seo ‘26
A SPACE-TACULAR DAY AT NASA
Following their presentations at the CDR, students got to have some fun at Space Center Houston, the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. This world-renowned facility offers an in-depth look at space exploration, from past missions to the latest advancements in human spaceflight.
During their visit, students had the chance to explore interactive exhibits, space artifacts, and historic spacecraft, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and innovations behind space travel. This visit provided an inspiring look at the possibilities within engineering, robotics, and space science—perfectly complementing the students’ own innovative projects.
HURRICANE-PROOF LEARNING
On their last day in Texas, the Engineering COE shifted focus from space to real-world engineering with a visit to Galveston. The day began with a tour of the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum, where students explored the technology and engineering behind offshore oil drilling, gaining insight into the complex systems and the innovations that make it possible.
They had lunch with storm chaser “Hurricane Hal,” who shared Galveston’s massive engineering feats after the 1900 hurricane, including the seawall and efforts to raise buildings for flood protection. To see these innovations firsthand, students toured Galveston’s historic district, visiting homes that withstood the hurricane. A highlight was a church lifted as part of the city’s elevation project, showcasing engineering resilience.
Alum and Trustee Fred Krahmer ’88 talks with current student Adelina Mukhametzhanova ’26 during a visit to campus.
Alumni Fuel the Future
Shattuck-St. Mary’s alumni pay it forward by giving back to the School that helped shape them into citizens of integrity.
The expanding opportunities available to Shattuck-St. Mary’s students are made possible through the compassion and generosity of our alumni, who exemplify what it means to be citizens of integrity. By contributing not only financial support but also their valuable time and talents, these alumni are giving back in diverse ways and for many reasons, united by a shared commitment to paying it forward and ensuring the School’s continued success.
Their gifts fund scholarships that open doors, support programs that inspire the pursuit of passions, and strengthen facilities that serve future generations. Whether mentoring students, organizing reunions, or supporting the mission from afar, these alumni demonstrate that giving back can take many forms. What unites them is a deep appreciation for the role SSM played in their lives—and a desire to ensure that same experience is available to those who follow.
In the profiles that follow, we celebrate alumni whose stories reflect this ongoing commitment. Their paths may differ, but their impact is shared: fueling the future of Shattuck-St. Mary’s.
Fred W. Krahmer ’88
Legacy in Action
Confidence, character, and community—these are the pillars Fred Krahmer ’88 credits to his years at Shattuck-St. Mary’s. Though his family legacy at the School spans generations, Fred’s experience was wholly his own: one defined by transformative mentorship, lifelong friendships, and the kind of personal growth that leaves a lasting imprint.
Fred’s connection to SSM ran deep even before he arrived on campus. His father and grandfather were proud alumni, and Fred grew up hearing about the School’s tradition of excellence. But it wasn’t just legacy that drew him in; it was the promise of independence, academic rigor, and the opportunity to discover his potential.
Newhall Auditorium quickly became Fred’s personal gauntlet. It was on that stage that he confronted his fears, explored his talents, and learned the profound power of communication. The friendships forged under the stage lights—through countless hours of sweat, nerves, and laughter— would become some of the deepest and most enduring bonds of his life.
“Without my four years at SSM, I highly doubt I would have developed the confidence and discipline that has taken me so far,” Fred reflects. The School’s culture of self-sufficiency, passion, and high expectations set him on a path that would carry him from Union College to the University of Minnesota Law School, and beyond.
How YOU Can Give Back
Share Your Time and Expertise!
Volunteer as a mentor for current students or recent graduates.
Offer internship or job shadowing opportunities.
Participate in the Deep Dive & Dessert series hosted by the weCreate® Center. These engaging sessions provide students with a behind-the-scenes look at various professions, performances, and pieces of art, offering them a closer understanding of the work that goes into their potential careers. Share your expertise through modules or masterclasses, and inspire students to dive deep into their passions while enjoying some dessert together.
Influential mentors—play directors like Steve Cornish and Dick Kettering, coaches like Henry Cataldo, resilient leaders and inspiring teachers like Bob Irby, Phil Trout, and Slade Schuster—all left an indelible mark on Fred. They challenged him to think deeper, strive harder, and pursue excellence with humility and heart.
Fred’s professional journey has been dynamic: from practicing law to working with family farms to building a career in community banking. But perhaps his most challenging and rewarding roles are those of husband and father—raising two children, Max ’28 and Ella ’26, who are now continuing the Krahmer family legacy at SSM.
Reflecting on his own time at SSM and now watching his children thrive, Fred sees a school that has grown even stronger over the years. He loved his experience as a student, but today’s SSM— with its driven students, deeply engaged faculty, and vibrant community—feels like something even more special. With real momentum and opportunity on the horizon, Fred is excited to see where the School can go next. “As an alum and now a parent—the consistency of the faculty giving in time, talent, and resources to this School is unmatched,” Fred says. “Through ups and downs, the faculty deliver extraordinary experiences and opportunities to the kids. That tradition of excellence deserves our support.”
Giving back to the School was a natural decision for Fred—a heartfelt return of the gifts he received. “I received the gift of great teachers, great friends, and great mentors,” he shares. “Returning interest on those gifts through my own financial donations and now through my work on the Board of Trustees is fulfilling and I hope returns some of the favor I received.”
Learning that no student at SSM pays the full cost of their education underscored for him the vital importance of alumni support. Today, Fred contributes financially to the Annual Fund and supports key initiatives like strategic rebranding efforts, ensuring the School continues to thrive and evolve.
Serving on the Board of Trustees, Fred sees firsthand how alumni contributions—big and small— make a difference in the SSM community. His advice to fellow alumni is simple and powerful: “Ask any faculty member or Trustee if you can help or share what skills or network you can bring. Too often I think we believe what we can give is too small to be relevant. But the opposite is true— it’s the thousands of small ripples that make the waves of change.”
With his unwavering commitment and vision for the future, Fred Krahmer stands as a testament to the transformative power of Shattuck-St. Mary’s and the lifelong duty—and joy—of giving back.
Tamara Kloeckl Nelsen ’80
How YOU Can Give Back
Celebrate and Advocate!
Share your SSM story and promote the School within your community.
Nominate deserving individuals for alumni awards such as “The Rising Star Award” or “The Distinguished Alumnus/Alumna Award.”
Recognize the achievements of fellow alumni! Help celebrate your peers by bringing to our attention the outstanding work being done by SSM graduates.
Encourage prospective students and families to explore all that SSM has to offer.
Use your social media platform to share SSM-related stories, accomplishments, and events, bringing awareness to the School’s ongoing impact and legacy.
From Scholarship to Stewardship
Tamara Kloeckl Nelsen ’80 never imagined that delivering newspapers in the 1970s would lead to a life-changing educational experience. Thanks to a Circulation Scholarship offered by the Minneapolis Star Tribune’s then-owners, the Cowles family, Tamara and her brother were given the opportunity to attend a college preparatory school—a gift that brought them to the Shattuck-St. Mary’s campus in 1975. What followed was a five-year journey marked by academic growth, leadership opportunities, and a deep connection to a community that would shape the rest of her life.
From Senior Sings and Pilgrim’s Breakfast to the discipline of the Wooden Soldiers, Tamara immersed herself in every corner of campus life. “SSM showed me the importance of community, integrity, flexibility, and leadership,” she says. The global perspective she gained there fueled her academic path—earning a degree with distinction in international relations from Stanford University and later an internationally focused MBA from Virginia Tech.
Tamara built a robust career in sales, marketing, public policy, and executive leadership in agriculture and trade—fields where her SSM-honed skills in diplomacy, discipline, and service were critical. Today, she continues to champion those values through her philanthropy, advocacy, and leadership as the current Chair of SSM’s Board of Trustees.
That same sense of purpose and stewardship guides her approach to giving back to SSM. After initially supporting specific programs, Tamara shifted her focus to unrestricted giving through the Annual Fund, believing it to be the most effective way to sustain the School and its mission. In addition to her annual giving, she contributes to various alumni, faculty, and sponsorship initiatives as opportunities arise, underscoring her flexible and responsive approach to giving.
Tamara takes particular pride in her continued connection to the School as both a volunteer and Trustee. “I am fortunate to have served on the Board because I see the wonderful young leaders that SSM turns out each year,” she says. Her pride is further reinforced by reading about accomplished alumni in Through the Arch and witnessing the School’s ongoing investments in its campus—a reflection of the vibrant community she’s proud to support.
A formative moment that instilled the value of philanthropy came during the 1976–77 Parents’ Association Auction, where families of modest means donated goods to support the School—a gesture that left a lasting impression on Tamara. Around the same time, she remembers being struck by her first glimpse of the annual donor report as a student, particularly by how many alumni had given year after year. It sparked a sense of motivation and responsibility that continues to shape her approach to giving today.
Tamara hopes her contributions help preserve and enhance the safe, welcoming, and supportive community that empowers students to pursue their passions and grow into citizens of integrity. Her own giving is guided by a desire to support long-standing institutions that consistently foster leadership, personal responsibility, and lifelong learning— values that also guide her support of organizations like the YMCA of the North, and public television and radio.
She believes that staying connected to SSM is not only important but mutually rewarding. “I value all alumni and want to share our common values, experiences, and traditions,” she says. “But even more importantly, your school needs you—and the truth is, you’ll get more out of giving and staying connected than you’ll give.”
Her message to fellow alumni reflects a strong call to action. “I encourage any and all fellow alumni to get involved in SSM. SSM was there for you and is here for students now because of the philanthropy of others.”
A Foundation Built on Fellowship
For Rex Bates ’70, ShattuckSt. Mary’s is where a lifelong love of history, community, and mentorship began—first as a student, then as a faculty member, and now as a dedicated supporter of the School’s mission and future.
Rex arrived at Shattuck School in 1967, thanks to the recommendation of family friends and alumni who believed in the power of the School’s experience. What he found was a campus filled with camaraderie, character, and intellectual inspiration. He fondly recalls the “fellowship of proctors in Breck” and two years of doubles tennis with friend and classmate Dean Whalen ’70 as highlights of his time as a student. He also credits a number of Shattuck mentors with shaping his path—including Mr. Reg Kramer, who sparked his academic curiosity; Doug Robertson, who brought learning to life in unforgettable ways; and Montague Ball, his dorm master, who became a lifelong friend and mentor after hiring Rex to work as a counselor at his summer camp in Maine.
Rex
Bates
’70
With Shattuck’s encouragement and support, Rex spent four years after graduation teaching at Martyrs’ Memorial School in a remote region of Papua New Guinea. As the only American within 150 miles, he learned to live and work cross-culturally—an experience that broadened his worldview and reinforced the values of independence and adaptability he’d gained at SSM. Following his return, Rex earned a degree in political philosophy from St. Olaf College and pursued graduate studies at Mankato State (now Minnesota State University, Mankato), Willamette University, and the University of Chicago.
He returned to Shattuck-St. Mary’s as a faculty member from 1974 to 1981, where he helped shape the lives of students while working alongside a new generation of young, passionate educators. His professional journey later took him into the insurance industry, where he spent 27 successful years before retiring early to return to his true calling: education. What started as a one-year post-retirement role at Annie Wright Schools in Washington became a 16-year career as Director of International Advancement. It was during this time—at what was then an all-girls school—that Rex found a renewed purpose in preparing young women for leadership. That passion inspired him to sponsor an annual Women’s Next Generation Leadership Summit in Hawaii, which has welcomed young women from independent schools—including Shattuck-St. Mary’s—for the past eight years.
“I was able to get to know a number of young women,” he shares. “When I returned [to Shattuck-St. Mary’s] for my delayed 50th reunion, I was showing my wife through Shumway Hall and I heard two young voices shout ‘Mr. Bates!’—which surprised my wife. It was two girls who had been to the summit.”
Today, Rex is retired from professional life but is deeply engaged in philanthropy. He supports SSM with both time and resources, directing his giving toward opportunities that elevate student experiences—especially for young women. “All institutions like SSM cannot be supported through tuition alone,” he says. “Someone from the past helped fund my education. We all have a duty to support those who come after us.” He believes every alum can make a difference: “I think everyone should give something. Whether it is $5 or $50,000, every dollar demonstrates support and belief in the School—and that is critical.”
Guided by the values he developed at Shattuck-St. Mary’s, Rex has built a life devoted to education, leadership, and service. He continues to honor those values—one student, one summit, and one gift at a time.
We all have a duty to support those who come after us.
Rex Bates ’70, with Shattuck-St. Mary’s students attending the Women’s Leadership Summit in Hawaii in 2023
Photo credit: Annie Wright Schools
Phil Trout ’73
Honoring Lifelong Friendships
Giving to Shattuck-St. Mary’s School is more than tradition for Phil Trout ’73—it’s a deeply personal act of gratitude. His philanthropy honors the friendships, mentorships, and opportunities that have shaped his life and career over more than five decades.
Phil first discovered Shattuck-St. Mary’s through the same scholarship opportunity that brought fellow alum Tamara Kloeckl Nelsen ’80 to the School: the Minneapolis Star Tribune newspaper carrier program. Growing up in a small town in southwestern Minnesota, he saw in SSM a gateway to a larger world—and embraced it wholeheartedly. His high school years were filled with rich experiences and formative relationships, including friendships with classmates from around the globe.“I learned many valuable life lessons at Shattuck-St. Mary’s—chief among them is the value of paying close attention, and the importance of critical inquiry,” Phil says. A simple but powerful lesson that anchored a 42-year career in college counseling—“Being a good listener was probably the key element of my success as a counselor.”
I now know that time is just as valuable a philanthropic contribution as money.
Phil’s SSM story didn’t end with graduation. In 1978, he returned to campus as a faculty member and administrator. He and his wife, Beth—who taught at SSM for 33 years—raised their daughters, Megan ’04 and Lauren ’07, on the Shattuck-St. Mary’s campus, creating a multigenerational bond with the School. “For us, it truly has been ‘ALL IN’ the family,” Phil says. He also counts among his lifelong mentors and friends a group he fondly calls the “fabulous five”—Bob Irby, Bob Neslund, Jon Freeman, John Sumner, and Slade Schuster—teachers and coaches who had a profound influence on him as a student and colleague.
That depth of experience fuels Phil’s deep commitment to giving back.“I have a circle of close friendships with Shattuck-St. Mary’s classmates—having them as a vibrant part of my life makes me appreciate having been a part of the SSM community,” he explains. “My gifts to the School honor those friendships.” Phil supports the Annual Fund regularly, with a particular passion for financial aid and scholarships, recognizing how they once made his own enrollment possible. He also gives in recognition of his daughters’ SSM experience, saying, “Our financial support reconfirms the valuable education they received and helps secure similar opportunities for future generations.”
He also sees giving as a shared responsibility. Inspired by programs like the Whitney Society— an initiative from the late 1970s encouraging annual gifts from alumni—Phil hopes to see a renewed culture of consistent giving. “SSM needs the security of consistent giving from a cadre of dedicated alums and supporters. We had our opportunity to experience the benefits of a strong college preparatory experience—it’s important that we provide this same experience to generations of young people in the future!”
Phil’s philosophy of philanthropy is grounded in gratitude and service. Even in retirement, Phil continues to model this ethos of stewardship, volunteering with organizations like Loaves and Fishes and reminding others that time, like money, is a vital form of giving. “I now know that time is just as valuable a philanthropic contribution as money—I try to see what I can do to volunteer my time and stewardship as often as possible.”
As a Class Agent for more than 50 years, Phil has dedicated a great deal of his time to strengthening alumni ties and fostering engagement across generations. Most recently, he and his Class of ’73 peers worked together to fund the digital preservation of SSM’s historic yearbooks—a tribute to the School’s enduring legacy and a gift to its future.
He advises fellow alumni looking to support the School to “Begin by contacting a classmate to see how they’re doing—and what they’re doing. If possible, visit them in person! Your conversations together will give you the opportunity to look back with fondness on experiences at SSM—and to look ahead. You’ll discover something you want to support!”
Carrying it Forward
Shattuck-St. Mary’s School is more than just an alma mater for Megan Trout ’04—it’s part of her identity, a foundation for her values, and a place her family has called home. The daughter of Phil Trout ’73 and Beth Trout, Megan grew up on the SSM campus, where her father served as a faculty member and Director of Admissions and her mother taught Spanish in the Middle School. Their commitment to the School—and the community they helped build—left a lasting impression.
Megan Trout ’04
Megan often reflects on the richness of her seven years as a student at SSM: descending into Iron Range mines on a sixth-grade trip, dressing up to attend ballets with Mr. and Mrs. Choszczyk, seeing her first West End production in London, and soaking in the relief after finals with classmates on the Parade Field. These formative experiences—along with her time managing theater productions and learning from inspiring teachers—fostered a deep love of learning and an appreciation for the arts, global cultures, and personal growth.
“Shattuck-St. Mary’s didn’t just educate me—it shaped me,” she says. “The School’s commitment to excellence, curiosity, and character lit a spark in me that still burns today.” That spark fueled her academic journey, taking her from the stage and classrooms of SSM to Northwestern University, where she earned a B.A. in Spanish and International Studies, and later to Harvard Business School for her MBA.
Megan’s professional path has been purposeful and wide-ranging. She has worked across the consumer packaged goods and retail sectors, launching new products and leading brand strategy for mission-driven companies. Today, she serves as Director of Brand Management for a portfolio of fresh, better-for-you food brands. She credits her time at SSM for helping her thrive in such a fast-paced, ever-changing industry. “SSM taught me to lead with curiosity, stay disciplined in my goals, and adapt quickly,” she says.
Her inspiration to give back is deeply rooted in gratitude and a strong sense of stewardship. “My sorority’s creed says to give graciously of what is mine—and Shattuck-St. Mary’s gave my family and me so much,” Megan reflects. “I believe in paying it forward to help SSM continue shaping the lives of students, families, and faculty for generations. Supporting this incredible place is a privilege!” Like her father before her, she sees the importance of contributing not just financially, but also through meaningful service—something she has embodied during her six-year tenure on the Board of Trustees.
How YOU Can Give Back
Support Financially!
Contribute to the Annual Fund to support scholarships, academic programs, and campus improvements.
Establish a named scholarship or donate to an existing one.
Explore matching gift programs through your employer.
Consider planned giving options—such as bequests, charitable gift annuities, or IRA charitable distributions—to leave a lasting legacy for future generations of students.
Megan served as a Trustee during one of the School’s most challenging chapters—the COVID-19 pandemic. That experience deepened her admiration for SSM’s mission and its people. “In a time of isolation, SSM found creative, meaningful ways to foster connection, belonging, and purpose for every student and educator,” she says. “It made me prouder than ever to serve.”
As her term concludes, Megan remains passionate about the future of the School. “I’m committed to helping SSM evolve while honoring its legacy, so future students can experience the same transformation I did,” she says. Her optimism is grounded in the continued growth of programs like the Centers of Excellence, ScholarShift®, and weCreate®—initiatives she believes will shape the School’s next chapter.
The Trout family legacy continues to ripple through the halls of Shattuck-St. Mary’s, not just in the memories shared by those who knew her parents, but in Megan’s own contributions as a student, alum, and Trustee. “As the daughter of Phil and Beth Trout, I’ve always felt proud when people share stories of the impact my parents had at SSM,” she says. “As a Trustee, it’s an honor to give back to the School that shaped us all—and to carry forward a bit of that Trout legacy in my own way.”
To Megan, staying involved is an act of connection and responsibility. “Get involved in any way you can—big or small,” she encourages. “Whether it’s volunteering, attending an event, or giving back financially, every action strengthens the SSM community. Philanthropy isn’t just about dollars—it’s about gratitude, legacy, and helping future students grow and thrive like we did.”
Committed to Continued Excellence
Marvin Levy ’64 came to Shattuck at the recommendation of his family, who believed the School would provide the right environment to prepare him for college and beyond. They were right—his three years on campus laid the groundwork for a life of learning, leadership, and giving back.
Marvin remembers his time as a student vividly: the people, the programs, and the opportunities that shaped his growth. The variety of students and educators who he encountered left a lasting impression, and experiences in both debate and theater helped him find his voice. “They strengthened my self-confidence and ability to organize and project my thoughts,” he explains. More than anything, his time at the School taught him to trust himself. “The most important quality Shattuck gave me was the ability to weigh and make decisions on my own.”
That mindset served him well at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he earned a B.S. in 1968 and a J.D. in 1971. While still in college, he worked full-time for The Wisconsin State Journal, the city’s daily newspaper. After law school, he began his legal career as a clerk for the Chief U.S. District Judge in Memphis, Tennessee. By 1972, Marvin had returned to Minnesota to help lead his family’s company, Phillips Distributing Corp.—a role he continues to hold today.
How YOU Can Give Back
Stay Connected!
Attend alumni events. Reunions and regional gatherings are great ways to reconnect and strengthen the SSM network.
Host or sponsor an event. Bring alumni together in your area and help inspire lifelong engagement with the School.
Become a Class Agent. Help keep your classmates connected by sharing updates, gathering class news for Through the Arch, promoting events, and encouraging giving. You’ll also serve on your reunion committee and brainstorm ways to engage your class.
Follow SSM online. Stay up-to-date on School news and connect with fellow alumni through SSM’s social media channels.
Join the alumni Facebook group. Stay in touch, share memories, and keep current on alumni news and events.
Join the Alumni Book Club. Connect with fellow alumni through thoughtful discussions of a wide range of books. It’s a great way to share ideas, stay engaged, and enjoy lifelong learning together.
Marvin’s commitment to giving back is deeply rooted in his belief in the power of private education. “I think my education and experiences at Shattuck helped me succeed across the many years of my life,” he says. He especially values how SSM continues to grow and innovate. “The School has created a variety of educational and athletic programs that help students develop their skills and find a path forward in life,” he notes. He’s also passionate about supporting the School’s facilities—an area he sees as vital to its long-term success.
He encourages today’s students to take advantage of all that ShattuckSt. Mary’s has to offer, just as he did. And when it comes to giving back, he keeps his focus clear: “I support the causes that matter most to me,” he says, adding that he considers the accomplishments and goals of any organization before deciding to contribute.
Marvin’s view of philanthropy matured with time. “At some point you realize life is not all about you, but rather what you can do for others,” he says. That realization drives his generosity toward education, healthcare, and community causes—including his alma mater.
Through thoughtful, values-based giving, Marvin continues to strengthen the institutions that shaped his journey—and in doing so, helps open doors for those who follow.
We are grateful to the alumni featured here— and to all alumni donors—who make ShattuckSt. Mary’s and its continuing tradition of excellence possible. Your support not only honors the past but helps build a strong, vibrant future, empowering students to grow with purpose, lead with confidence, and carry forward the values that define SSM.
Marvin Levy ’64
Photo credit: Jeff Miller/UW-Madison
Fine Tuned
Students from Shattuck-St. Mary’s Pre-Conservatory Center of Excellence recently enjoyed a rare behind-the-scenes look at the art of instrument making during a visit to the Northfield workshop of David Folland, a world-renowned luthier who crafts violins and cellos by hand for musicians across the globe. Folland welcomed the students into his studio and walked them through each step of the process—from selecting the wood to carving the body—demonstrating the precision and artistry behind creating concert-quality instruments. The students, many of whom perform on similar handcrafted violins and cellos, were captivated by the experience, asking thoughtful questions and watching in awe as Folland showed how even the smallest details can shape an instrument’s voice.
“This visit was the final field trip during a term-long exploration of instrument-making that included learning about synthesizers, historical instruments, and a visit to the NYC Metropolitan Museum’s collection of instruments,” stated Dr. Benjamin Downs, Director of the Pre-Conservatory Center of Excellence. “We loved seeing Mr. Folland’s deep devotion. His instruments aren’t just tools for us to use, but pieces of beauty themselves that emerge slowly (4-5 months per violin!) through patient care and intention. This is exactly the kind of working ethos every musician needs.”
ARTS NEWS
A Winning Debut for Waverly Field ’31
Waverly Field ’31 and Anita Matsuura ’31 recently represented Shattuck-St. Mary’s School in the prestigious Mary West Solo Competition, hosted annually each fall by the Minnesota String and Orchestra Teacher’s Association. Open to Minnesota students of the violin, viola, cello, bass, harp, and classical guitar, the Mary West Solo Competition is the organization’s most distinguished event, featuring four divisions— elementary, intermediate, junior, and senior.
This year, Waverly was named one of three winners in the elementary division, marking her first competition appearance since joining SSM’s Pre-Conservatory COE just this fall.
“We’ve practiced hard every day to get her prepared for the Mary West Competition, her first competition since coming to SSM, and her hard work paid off,” said Pre-Con Director Ben Downs. “She performed with confidence, poise, and artistry.”
Waverly’s win adds to the impressive legacy of SSM Pre-Conservatory students who have earned recognition at the Mary West Competition, including Mark Prihodko ’16 (2012, 2014), Sara Aldana ’16 (2014), Maria Chirinos ’18 (2016, 2017), Cate Carson ’20 (2017, 2018), Harrison Oh ’19 (2018), and James Thompson (2018, 2019).
Adelina Mukhametzhanova
’26 Recognized in State and Regional Music Competitions
Adelina Mukhametzhanova ’26 recently earned recognition from two well-respected music organizations, continuing to grow as both a performer and student of the Vocal Performance Center of Excellence. She placed first in the Musical Theater category of the Thursday Musical Young Artist competition and was named a finalist in the Music Teachers National Association’s (MTNA) Junior Performance Competition.
Thursday Musical is a Minnesota-based organization of classical musicians that has long supported and celebrated young talent. Adelina’s performance in their annual competition reflects her ongoing dedication to her craft and her love of musical storytelling.
Her success with MTNA—a national music education organization known for its high-level student competitions— earned her the opportunity to represent the region at the Junior Performance level. As part of this honor, she was invited to sing in the organization’s “Winner’s Recital” in St. Paul, where she shared the stage with other young musicians from across the state.
Zoie Reams ’10 Returns to the Met in “Antony and Cleopatra”
Celebrated mezzo-soprano and Shattuck-St. Mary’s alumna Zoie Reams ’10 is returning to one of opera’s grandest stages: the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. Reams will appear as Charmian in the Met’s production of Antony and Cleopatra, running from May 12 to June 7, 2025. This modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic, composed by John Adams, stars soprano Julia Bullock as Cleopatra and bass-baritone Gerald Finley as
Antony—an impressive cast made even more exciting with Zoie’s return to the Met.
This marks Zoie’s second appearance at the Met, following her acclaimed debut in the fall of 2021 as Lily in Porgy and Bess. A graduate of the SSM Vocal Performance Program, Zoie honed her talents on the school’s stage and in the Twin Cities, performing with Project Opera and taking leading roles in student productions. Since her time at SSM,
she has earned both a bachelor’s and Master of Music degree, and has captivated audiences nationwide with her powerful voice and commanding stage presence.
From her early performances in Faribault to starring roles on some of the country’s most renowned stages, Zoie continues to build a career defined by excellence, versatility, and artistry.
Waverly Field ’31 performs in the Mary West Solo Competition
Photo source: Minnesota Opera
Choir Field Trip to Orlando
On Monday, April 14, eleven members of the SSM Chamber Choir performed as part of National Concerts’ Masterworks Chorus at the stunning Steinmetz Hall in Orlando, Florida. In the days leading up to the concert, they rehearsed John Rutter’s “Requiem” with a professional chamber orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Sandra Snow. While in Orlando, the singers also had the opportunity to explore local attractions and enjoy the beautiful weather!
Pre-Con Field Trip to NYC
The Pre-Conservatory COE took a bite out of the Big Apple on a recent trip to New York City, packing their days with concerts at Juilliard and Lincoln Center, visits to MOMA and the Met, sightseeing adventures, and plenty of pizza. Along the way, they caught up with Pre-Con alums Cate Carson ’20, Dina Duatova ’23, and Sara Hyun ’24, as well as Vocal Performance Program star Zoie Reams ’10.
Cate Carson ’20 (center) with Pre-Con students
Dina Duatova ’23 (right) with Pre-Con students
Figure Skating COE Relishes International Trip
For the first time in its nearly 20-year history, the Shattuck-St. Mary’s Figure Skating Center of Excellence traveled internationally, competing in the prestigious Flyver Cup in Copenhagen, Denmark, on February 1–2. Nineteen Sabre skaters represented SSM at the event, which featured competitors from 13 countries. The team earned six medals and gained valuable experience in their first overseas competition.
While in Denmark, skaters trained with local coaches and learned about rule differences between U.S. and international competitions.
“The trip was definitely a positive learning experience for our skaters that will stay on their mind forever,” said assistant coach Surya Bonaly, a three-time Olympian. “I'm sure it was stressful for some, but also very rewarding and educational for many of the kids who previously had never left their state for skating competitions.”
Forrest Benson ’26 Leads Golf COE to New Heights
The Shattuck-St. Mary’s Golf Center of Excellence continues to garner recognition as it reached another milestone during the historic 24-25 season. In December, Forrest Benson ’26 was named the 2024 Player of the Year by the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour (HJGT) marking the first time in program history that an SSM golfer has received the honor.
Forrest, who is in his third year as a Sabre, was the top competitor in the Boys 16-18 Division after he medaled in six events throughout the year, including three first-place finishes. Forrest was the top competitor out of over 1,000 players in his age group. He was also one of only five players in his division to be named All-HJGT for 2024.
SSM Golf Director, Tim DeSormeau, had high praises for his student-athlete. “Forrest does all the little things right and is an extremely detailed individual when it comes to preparing for a tournament. He is a gym rat in the golf sense. You can always find him doing extra practice after school and working on his craft to get better.”
DeSormeau also detailed what this award means to the Golf COE. “To have one of our student-athletes win Player of the Year against thousands of other junior golfers proves that what we are doing in our program is working. It is a testament to the commitment of our players to believe that how and what we practice will pay dividends on the golf course.”
Sabre Soccer Players Take on International Stage
The Shattuck-St. Mary’s Soccer Center of Excellence had three current and former members compete for their respective countries in international tournaments this winter.
Max Robinson ’27, who is currently on the Boys U17 team, was a member of the Guyana U17 National Team for the CONCACAF U17 World Cup Qualifiers. Max started all four games for Guyana, netting two assists. The Junior Golden Jaguars finished third in their group and narrowly missed out on qualifying for the World Cup.
Meanwhile, the Girls Soccer Center of Excellence had two representatives at the 2025 CONCACAF Women’s U-20 Qualifiers in South America in February. 2024 graduate Liyah Menilek suited up for the Guyana U-20 national team, while current Sabre Vitoria Mitre Molinar ’25 was on the Panama squad.
Liyah, who is a freshman at St. Bonaventure University, started all three games for Guyana, helping the Junior Lady Jags to a 2-0-1 to win Group A. Vitoria played in all three games for Panama, while starting two. She netted one goal in the tournament to help Panama win it’s group with a 2-0-1 record. Next up, Liyah and Vitoria will compete in the U-20 CONCACAF Championship in Alajuela, Costa Rica, May 28-June 8, with the top four teams qualifying for the World Cup.
Brianna Decker ’09
Enshrined in US Hockey Hall of Fame
Shattuck-St. Mary’s alum and current Girls Prep associate head coach Brianna Decker ’09 was inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame as part of the 2024 class, honored in a Dec. 4 ceremony in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Brianna is just the 11th woman to receive this honor and joins fellow SSM alumni Monique Lamoureux-Morando ’08 and Jocelyne Lamoureux-Davidson ’08, who were inducted in 2022.
“Brianna was a fearless competitor,” said Girls Prep head coach Gordie Stafford. “She brought skill, passion, and intensity every day. That’s what propelled her to the Hall of Fame.”
Brianna represented the U.S. for 15 years, competing in three Olympic Games—winning gold in 2018 and silver in 2014 and 2022—and earning six World Championship titles. She recorded 170 points in 147 games for Team USA and was twice named USA Hockey’s Bob Allen Women’s Player of the Year.
As a four-year member of the Girls Prep team, Brianna helped lead the Girls Prep team to three USA Hockey Tier I U19 National Championships. She later starred at the University of Wisconsin, where she won a national title in 2011, was a three-time All-American, and earned the 2012 Patty Kazmaier Award as the top college player.
Since retiring, Brianna has turned to coaching, contributing to multiple medals with the U.S. Under-18 team and returning to SSM in 2022 to help lead the Sabres to two more national titles.
“Her dedication to youth hockey shows her commitment to growing the game,” said Stafford. “That’s the true mark of a champion.”
Max Robinson ’27
Photo source: STRAFFONIMAGES
Vitoria Mitre Molinar ’25 (left)
Photo source:
Former Sabres Named College Hockey’s Best Sabres at the Top: NCAA & World Champions
This spring, the Shattuck-St. Mary’s Hockey Center of Excellence reached a new feat in its storied history as for the first time ever, both the top male and female players in NCAA Division I Hockey were former Sabres. Isaac Howard was named the 2025 Hobey Baker Memorial Award winner, while Casey O’Brien ’20 won the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award. Although former SSM players have won the awards before, this marks the first time that SSM can lay claim to both award winners in the same year.
Isaac led Michigan State to Big Ten regular season and tournament titles, while contributing a career-high 26 goals and 52 points in 37 games. He ranked first in the country in points per game (1.41) and third in goals per game (.70). He was named the Big Ten Player of the Year and the Most Outstanding Player in the Big Ten Tournament after scoring the championship-clinching goal in double-overtime.
He joins Ryan Duncan ’05 and Macklin Celebrini as the three former Sabres to win the award. This also marks the first time that an SSM hockey alum has won in back-to-back years.
Capping off one of the most prolific careers in women’s college hockey, Casey O’Brien ’20 guided the Badgers to an impressive 38-1-2 record this season, which culminated in an eighth NCAA National Championship for Wisconsin. Casey led the country with 88 points and 62 assists, both of which rank in the top-10 in the NCAA’s single-season record books. She holds the school record for points in a season, career points (274), and career assists (177).
Casey, who is now a three-time national champion, was named the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) Forward of the Year and Player of the Year this season to go along with earning first-team All-American honors for the second year in a row.
She is now one of four SSM graduates to win the Patty Kazmaier award, joining Brianna Decker ’09, Amanda Kessel ’10, and Aerin Frankel ’17.
SSM Hockey Adds Three More National Championships
The Shattuck-St. Mary’s Hockey Center of Excellence added three more USA Hockey National Championships to its résumé this spring, bringing the program’s total to 39 national titles—further cementing its status as one of the premier youth hockey programs in the world.
The Boys U18 team continued its dominance at the High School National Championships, capturing its fourth straight title. The Boys Prep team earned its third consecutive Tier I 18U championship, while the Boys U16 team won the Tier I 16U championship for the first time since 2016.
After outscoring opponents 27-6 in the first four games, the Boys U18 team found itself down two goals in the final. Davis Damrow ’26 pulled SSM within one with just 2:52 left in regulation, and Christian Plaga ’25 tied it 64 seconds later. With momentum on their side, the Sabres completed the
comeback just over 10 minutes into overtime when Boris Posinger ’25 set up Marc-Alan Araujo Jr. ’26 for the game-winner.
The Boys Prep team’s route included a quarterfinal overtime scare, followed by a 6-0 semifinal win over Columbus. In the final, SSM overwhelmed the Boston Jr. Eagles 8-1. Seven players scored and Jackson Silverberg ’25 made 21 saves. Only three players returned from last year’s team, making this title defense particularly impressive. It marks Coach Tom Ward’s 11th national title—the most in School history.
Riding high after a 2-1 OT semifinal win, the Boys U16 team jumped to a 3-0 lead and rolled to a 4-1 win over Little Caesars. Jake Gustafson ’26 scored twice, and Michael Iliff ’26 made 22 saves—including a key penalty shot stop.
“This was another special year,” said Director of Hockey Ben Umhoefer ’05. “To have three national titles, two runners-up, and all our teams finishing top eight nationally is astounding. It speaks to the dedication of our entire community—from coaches and student-athletes to teachers, dorm parents, and kitchen staff. Everyone played a role in our success.”
Sabre Alums Victorious at World Juniors
The U.S. National Junior Team made history by winning back-to-back gold medals at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa—its first time ever repeating. Five former Sabres helped lead the charge: Zeev Buium, Brodie Ziemer, Cole Eiserman, Colin Ralph ’24, and head coach David Carle ’08. Zeev, an assistant captain, assisted on the championship-winning overtime goal in a dramatic 4–3 victory over Finland.
Cole and Brodie each tallied seven points, while Zeev added six. Colin recorded an assist and helped anchor a defense that allowed just 2.23 goals per game. David, also head coach at Denver University, now owns two NCAA titles and two World Junior golds, becoming the first coach to lead Team USA to consecutive championships.
Other Sabres also represented: Peter Cisar (Slovakia), Berkly Catton (Canada), and current Boys Prep junior Roberts Naudins '26 (Latvia). To date, 19 Sabres have won World Junior gold, with Zeev Buium the only two-time champ.
Riley Priddy ’23 Claims NCAA Title
For the second straight year, a ShattuckSt. Mary’s Boys Soccer alum has won the NCAA Division III Men’s Soccer Championship. Riley Priddy ’23 helped Amherst College capture the title this fall in a dramatic penalty shootout win over Connecticut College.
After 110 scoreless minutes, Amherst clinched its second national title in the seventh round of penalties. Riley appeared in 22 games this season, starting 12, and contributed one goal and three assists. As a defender, he helped anchor a back line that allowed just 0.612 goals per game—14th best in the nation. He has played in 44 games over two seasons with the Mammoths.
Slew of Former Sabres Win Hockey Titles
Former SSM hockey players were on all four NCAA Ice Hockey National Championship winning teams this spring. Heikki Virtanen and the Hobart Statesmen defeated Utica University 2-1 in overtime to capture the Division III Men’s Hockey Championship. Kennedi BielenbergHowarth ’23 helped Wisconsin-River Falls win back-to-back NCAA Division III Women’s hockey titles. Ty Henricks and Zach Nehring ’23 won the Men’s NCAA Division I championship with Western Michigan, while Casey O’Brien ’20, Lacey Eden ’20, and Maggie Scannell ’24 took home the women’s DI championship with the Wisconsin Badgers.
Casey O’Brien ’20
Photo source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Isaac Howard
Photo source: 2025 Scott Rovak/ Enterprise Center
ALUMNI GATHERINGS
All photos are L-R
Seated:
Steve Barrager ’59
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
As winter settled upon Faribault, Brycen Eberwein ’05 and Mike Maxwell of the Development Office traveled to San Francisco for a Shattuck-St. Mary’s gathering. Hosted by Jason Short ’04 at the Olympic Club, the event was a great success, drawing alumni from classes spanning 1952 to 2019. The room was filled with energy as alumni connected, reconnected, and shared stories about their experiences at Shattuck-St. Mary’s. During the trip, Mike Maxwell, Director of Development, was graciously hosted by Phil Mancini ’67 for dinner and Susan ’64 and Guy Hensaw for lunch. These alumni shared their own wonderful memories from their time at Shattuck and St. Mary’s Hall.
Front row, standing: Phil Mancini ’67, Sandraline Cederwall, Kevin Deeth ’05, Annual Fund and Alumni Relations Manager Brycen Eberwein ’05, Marilyn “Toby” Masters Levine ’52, Olivia Chan ’13, Marissa Mini ’19
Back row, standing: Jason Short ’04, Ken Rowe ’03, Michael McLafferty ’95, Loi Vo ’13, Michelle Chan ’12, Director of Development Mike Maxwell, Gilberto Arellano
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA
Members of the Class of 1962, along with a few others, gathered for their annual golf outing in sunny Scottsdale, AZ—celebrating lifelong friendships, great memories, and a shared
Left photo (around the table, L-R): John Baer ’62, Jim Ramsland ’62, Dan Gislason ’62, Matt Cavellier, Scott Berry ’59, Nick Stoneman, Ed Carpenter ’60, Perry Mead ’66, Paul Jeremiassen ’62, Hugh Wooldridge ’55
love of the game.
Right photo (around the table, L-R): Paul Jeremiassen ’62, John Baer ’62, Jim Ramsland ’62, Hugh Wooldridge ’55, Dan Gislason ’62, Perry Mead ’66, Ed Carpenter ’60, Scott Berry ’59
AUSTIN, TEXAS
During a recent visit to the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, Director of Development Mike Maxwell had the pleasure of connecting with several enthusiastic SSM Alumni, including David Carpentier ’98, Bill Scheel ’54, Krista Peterson Fisher ’03 (Bulverde, TX), Stephen Olson ’79, Mark Alpert ’60, and Andy Stoneman ’18. Each spoke fondly of their time on campus and the impact Shattuck-St. Mary’s School had on their lives.
Top left:
David Carpentier ’98 and Mike Maxwell
Top right:
Mike Alpert ’60 and Mike Maxwell
Bottom:
Mike Maxwell and Stephen Olson ’79
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA
2025 REUNION WEEKEND Schedule of Events
In March, Head of School Matt Cavellier (middle) and Annual Fund and Alumni Relations Manager Brycen Eberwein ’05 (right) met up with Chris Sutton ’08 (left).
spotlight
Throughout the year, Shattuck-St. Mary’s features graduates doing incredible things in college, careers, and beyond through our Alumni Spotlight series on Instagram. From entrepeneurs and innovators to athletes, artists, and educators, these stories showcase the diverse paths our alumni take after passing through the Arch.
Here are seven recent highlights from the series. To see more and stay connected, follow us on Instagram.
Wade Fenn ’76
Education: Williams College
Degree: B.A. in Economics & History
Currently: Founder & CEO of The Navvo Group
What has Wade been up to?
After graduating as valedictorian from SSM, Wade studied Economics and History at Williams College. He found early success in sales and entrepreneurship before joining Sound of Music—later Best Buy—where he helped lead a major turnaround as Executive VP. In the 2000s, Wade shifted focus to emerging technologies, founding Retail Masters and Navvo to pioneer voice control systems. His work contributed to the development of VUIs now used in remotes, smartphones, and car systems.
How did SSM impact Wade?
“After surviving the physical challenges of Crack Squad tryouts, I learned how to perform under intense pressure, where even small mistakes were obvious to the audience. I describe the Crack Squad experience as the best business class of my life, where I had to learn influence without authority in making our squad better.
Shattuck was special in that the faculty was always there after classes to help. I recall many days in Greg Kieffer’s apartment working on Chemistry or Physics questions. The faculty was connected to student achievement in ways far beyond academics.”
Eli Ray ’19
Education: Dartmouth College & Thayer School of Engineering
Degree: B.A. in Engineering
Sciences & Environmental/Energy & MBA in Engineering
Currently: Environmental Engineer II at CDM Smith
What has Eli been up to?
Since graduating from SSM, Eli earned two bachelor’s degrees from Dartmouth College in Engineering Sciences and Environmental/Energy Engineering. Her academic work included a capstone design project and an honors thesis exploring the feasibility of fully renewable energy at the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center in New Hampshire. She also analyzed the cost and capacity of transmitting renewable power from the Midwest to New England.
Her hands-on experience includes a summer research project at Michigan Tech focused on sediment and water remediation from legacy copper mining near Lake Superior, as well as internships at two environmental consulting firms—one involving Superfund site cleanups and the other focused on environmental compliance. Eli later returned to Dartmouth to complete a Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering.
Advice from Eli
“I would recommend that current SSM students interested in pursuing a career path in environmental engineering take advantage of every opportunity they have to get experience in that field. Extracurricular activities, clubs, local events, conferences—even visiting your local water department—are all great ways to get involved, grow your network, and discover what you may be interested in.”
Ben Callahan ’20
Education: Savannah College of Art & Design
Major: Fashion Design
Currently: Men’s Activewear
Designer at Abercrombie & Fitch
How did SSM influence Ben?
The idea of being “All In” had a lasting impact on Ben, shaping his work ethic and commitment at SSM and throughout college. Though early in his professional journey, this mindset helped him navigate uncertainty. Balancing college golf, academics, a social life, and selfcare left Ben stretched thin. By his third year, he was struggling with his game and no longer enjoying it. After reflection, he chose to leave the team and focus on the work he loved.
This shift allowed Ben to invest more energy into his academic and professional pursuits. Over the next year and a half, his focus led to valuable opportunities, meaningful connections, and set him on a promising path. Though leaving golf was tough, it proved to be the right choice.
Advice from Ben Ben recalls how SSM pushed him to overcome his fear of public speaking. “It terrified me more than anything,” he admits, but he learned that it’s an unavoidable skill in life. “The only choice was to work through it.” Through preparation and practice, he realized that excitement and fear are two sides of the same coin. “How can something that scares me become a tool to show off my personality and confidence?” Now, Ben laughs at how many people compliment his public speaking. “Pushing yourself to do what scares you will always pay off,” he advises.
McLean Donnely ’03
Education: Gettysburg College, University of St. Thomas, and Rhodes University in South Africa
Degree: B.A. in Political Science & MBA
Currently: Professor of Design at the University of Minnesota, teaching User Experience (UX) Design
What has McLean been up to?
After spending around 15 years in the tech industry, McLean transitioned from leading UX Design teams at major companies to pursuing a new passion— teaching. He held roles including Vice President of Design at Shutterstock in New York City, UX Design Director at Shopify, and UX Manager at Expedia in Seattle. “After the pandemic, I felt drawn to do something new,” he says. “It feels like coming full circle.”
McLean now teaches UX Design at the University of Minnesota and serves as an at-large member of the ShattuckSt. Mary’s Board of Trustees. He’s excited to give back to the community that helped shape him. A passionate reader—31 books and counting this year—he recommends the classic boarding school novel A Separate Peace by John Knowles and Prep by Curtis Sittenfeld for a modern take on identity and fitting in.
Who/what influenced and inspired McLean?
“Coach Gordie Stafford, hands down. He was an incredible coach—focused, a great communicator, always motivating—but also an inspiring teacher who opened our minds to all types of literature. His impact went far beyond the rink; he shaped how I see the world and tackle challenges. Also, being part of a close-knit school like SSM taught me the value of community and instilled a drive for excellence that I carry with me to this day.”
Kate began her career at the Carlyle Group, one of the largest global private equity firms, followed by a role at 1776 Ventures, a DC-based venture capital firm backed by AOL founder Steve Case, where she focused on investments in mobility, education, and fintech. She later worked for a single-family office investing in private assets before moving to Mexico City in 2021 to found Khora, a platform aimed at strengthening the emerging Latin America tech ecosystem.
Kate is a founding team member of Bicycle Capital, a $500M growth equity firm investing in companies across Latin America. Bicycle focuses on sectors like fintech, AI, and software. Kate also co-founded Mexico Tech Week, a week-long event series bringing together startups, investors, and companies to support the region’s growing tech community.
Who influenced and inspired Kate?
“My sister, Kelly Kiewel ’10. She has been my greatest supporter, mentor, and teammate—we played on the court together and shared many stages at SSM. Since graduating, we continue to support each other’s work, growth, and projects. Father Doyle is one of the most inspiring and remarkable people at SSM and in the world. He is the purest example of leadership and kindness, and his impact reaches far beyond the Arch.”
Mik Bushinski ’11
Education: Utica University & Yale Law School
Degrees: Political Science & Economics, MBA, Juris Doctor Currently: Lawyer at Latham & Watkins in NYC
What has Mik been up to?
After SSM, Mik played junior hockey for a couple of years before attending Utica University, where he played collegiate hockey and earned undergraduate degrees in Political Science and Economics, as well as his MBA. He went on to earn a JD from Yale Law School and began his legal career at Latham & Watkins, a global law firm. As part of the Emerging Companies and Growth group, Mik represents startups, tech companies, and venture capital investors—working with clients from early formation through growth and public offerings.
Kaelyn Korte ’12
Education: Central Michigan University
Degrees: B.A. in Photojournalism
Currently: Outreach Assistant at Craft Lake City & freelance photography
What has KK been up to?
KK graduated from Central Michigan University with a degree in photojournalism while playing Division I soccer. After college, she pursued a professional soccer career with the Chicago Red Stars, Biik Kazygurt in Kazakhstan, and Kuopion Palloseura in Finland.
While overseas, KK backpacked through Europe, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, working briefly as a travel writer and photographer. In 2021, she settled in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she lives with her boyfriend and their miniature American Shepherd, Fancy.
Advice from KK:
Advice from Mik:
“It’s important to understand what the actual work you will be doing is like on a day-to-day basis. That can vary a lot between career paths, including between different types of lawyers. Seek out practitioners and mentors, interships, and other experiences that allow you to get a sense of what your career will look like. If you’re interested in the type of work you will see day-in and dayout, then that is worth pursuing. Shattuck-St. Mary’s has so much to offer, so soak up as much of it as you can. Teachers, classmates, coaches, classes, events, and everything in between. I still think back to how formative my years at SSM were on me and my approach to life.”
“That dreaded senior speech taught me a lot. As a sophomore, once I learned seniors were required to speak in front of the entire school, I literally counted down the years, months, and days. I had horrible social anxiety, so this was a big fear. But with enough preparation, I did it. It taught me that if I could face that fear, I could do anything.
If you want to pursue collegiate or professional sports: always have something to fall back on. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket—pursue other interests, find hobbies, and learn new skills. No matter how promising your career, imagine your life without sports. That way, when retirement comes, it won’t hit as hard. If you want to travel: do it! Traveling can be a gateway to your inner world. You learn about others—and yourself.”
CLASS NOTES
1942
Duane Rasmussen shares, “In August 2024, for the second year, I was appointed honorary publisher of The Maynard News, a daily newspaper published at the Minnesota State Fair in the Minnesota Newspaper Association exhibit. The paper is printed each day in the letterpress format of the 1930s on old equipment to show attendees some newspaper history before the arrival of offset printing. I operated an old platen (snapper) press for my morning shift. I also enjoyed my annual lunch with classmate Ben Jaffray. I am still an active Mason, coming up on 75 years.”
1962
Martha Lauterbach (left) and Molly Gaynor Hull (right) met up in Big Sky, Montana over Thanksgiving weekend. Martha drove from her home outside Missoula to spend a couple nights with Molly and her family who had rented a house there to ski and connect with Molly’s grandson, Soren, who attends Montana State.
1971
Bob Rhoades shared this fond memory from his time at Shattuck School: "Undefeated in basketball for three straight years. 72-0. Memories for eternity..."
1972
Scott Johnson and Cynthia Leslie Johnson celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in Aspen, Colorado and again in October on a trip with their family to Kauai, Hawaii….Woohoo!!
1973 James Pabst married Paisley
Kelling on September 21, 2024 at Coons Franklin Lodge on Trout Lake in Wisconsin. Classmate Carl Siegel officated the ceremony (pictured, right). Several other 1973 classmates were in attendance.
Seated, L-R: Jim Pabst, Carl Siegel Standing, L-R: Brant Barr, Steve Jones, Terry Bomier, Phil Trout
1975 Janette Gould-Martin will retire from her role as English/ESL Chair and teacher at ShattuckSt. Mary's at the end of this school year. Jan came on board in 2005 as the Director of ESL, taught at the first satellite school in Beijing from 2013-2016, and returned home to the Faribault campus following that to teach for the English Department. Since her return from China, she helped Head of School Matt Cavellier launch and lead the Alumni Book Club, represented SSM at a TABS (The Association of Boarding Schools) conference in Washington, DC, and re-launched the student-driven campus Writing Center. She will have Colorado as her home base, but she expects to continue with domestic and international travel, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and working on her own writing.
1979
Richard Kincaid shares, "My wife and I took a wonderful river cruise on the Danube in Europe. Enjoyed several countries and cultures."
Bill Cochran (right) met his Crack Squad brother Kevin Blake (left) and his family for lunch at Ted’s Grill in Bozeman, Montana for a post-New Year gathering.
1980
Tamara Kloeckl Nelsen shared the above photo of the traditional "Class of '80" Christmas party (plus a few friends.) The first one, 45 years ago, was hosted by Keith Flakne's mom, Janet Flakne.
L-R front row, around the table: Kris Nordstrom Hayes, Kathy Knutson (wife of Bob Knutson), Laurie Knutson (wife of Scott Knutson), Tamara Kloeckl Nelsen, Bobbi and John Sumner (former SSM faculty), Bob Knutson '76, Carol Silge Boucha, Wade Fenn '76, and Jeff McIntosh.
L-R middle row: Keith Flakne, Brian Nelsen (husband of Tamara Kloeckl Nelsen), Jan McIntosh (wife of Jeff McIntosh), Anna Kettering (former SSM faculty), Charlie Levis '81, Tara Levis (wife of Charlie Levis), and Dick Kettering (former SSM faculty).
L-R back row: Rory Boucha (husband of Carol Silge Boucha), Slade Schuster, Jr. '81, Ross Flakne '76, Pat Riordan, Joe Hayes (husband of Kris Nordstrom Hayes), Fred Quiggle '81, and Scott Knutson.
1981
Mark Stephan shares that he is still working at Arazon Financial Group, LLC, a wealth management firm he started in 2009.
1987
Caroline "Kiki" Johnson moved back to the Twin Cities in August of 2024 and started a new role of CoCEO/Trustee at the Otto Bremer Trust.
IN MEMORIAM
We honor and remember our alumni, faculty, staff, and Shattuck-St. Mary's friends who have passed away.
Joan Willson Carver '46
November 8, 2022
C. Stuart Whitcomb '46 February 2, 2022
Helen Ames McGregor '48
September 4, 2021
Nancy Boteler Attinger '49
October 18, 2024
Jon Bowman '49
December 6, 2024
Charles Brintlinger '49 September 27, 2023
Nancy Ward Foster '49 January 10, 2025
Patricia Clough Thompson '49
June 23, 2024
Joan Smith Waitt '49 October 18, 2024
William E. Evans '50 January 22, 2022
James Lyons '50 October 16, 2024
1988 Yasumitsu (Yasu)
Iwasa shares that he's had a long career in global investment banking and asset management, having worked for a number of financials including Goldman Sachs and Singapore's sovereign wealth fund. He's lived in New York, London, Tokyo and Singapore. Yasu currently runs and manages Japan/APAC operation for a global asset manager, and is serving on boards of several venture companies.
John Wooldridge '50 March 2025
Rodney Kincaid '51
October 6, 2022
Louis Bunge '52
January 25, 2024
Stanley Judd '52
July 6, 2024
Marlys Petrie Johnson '55
August 18, 2023
Paul Sudmeier '59 October 31, 2024
Geoffrey Sauser '63 December 10, 2024
Candace Carver Brown '64
November 27, 2024
James Whiting '64
December 20, 2024
Scott Clarkson '65
May 17, 2024
John Bernatz '66
February 26, 2025
Harry "Skip" Carpenter '66
March 23, 2008
Michael McKinney '66
March 13, 2025
Noreen Cheales Siebenaler '66 September 27, 2024
Stephen Bailey '68 November 18, 2024
John Keyes '68
November 2, 2024
Corrine Wanstall '76
March 17, 2025
Susie Glass Dilley '77
November 18, 2024
Andreas Kristinus '84
April 11, 2025
BIRTHS
Congratulations on the new additions to your families!
Taryn Eaves and Benjamin Eaves ’00, a boy, Bennett Thomas Eaves, June 14, 2024
Sandy Wu and Yu-Chiang “John” Lee ’04, a girl, Wan-Ching Lee, January 14, 2025
Katherine Porter Steck ’04 and William Steck ’12, a girl, Scarlett Grace Steck, October 21, 2024
Maggie Estoque and David Estoque ’07, a boy, Noah Sage Estoque, November 22, 2024
Alexandra Volpicelli Greiner ’11 and Luke Greiner ’08, a boy, Lane Vincent Greiner, January 20, 2025
Brittany Rivers and Ryan Rivers ’10, a boy, Milo Daniel Rivers, January 7, 2025
Emily Cowley and Connor Cowley ’12, a girl, Arla Ann Cowley, October 7, 2024
MARRIAGES
Congratulations and best wishes to the following!
Paisley Kelling and James Pabst '73, September 21, 2024
Cassandra Brickzin and Ryan Forgaard ’07, October 23, 2023
Camille Biard ’11 and Robert Poyser, January 18, 2025
1991
In December 2023, Sarah Gross completed a Master's in Social Sector Leadership and Nonprofit Management at the University of Chicago, Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice.
1999
Susan Koller Nieves recently earned a Juris Doctor degree with honors and passed the bar exam. She studied law at Northern Illinois University and obtained her bachelor's from the University of Alaska Anchorage.
2006
Chun (Jim) Chou lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he is doing a residency in internal medicine, specializing in cardiology.
2011
Camille Biard married Robert Poyser on January 18, 2025, with several classmates in attendance.
2014
Lyndsay Oden
Anderson shares that she and husband Colt Anderson have been blessed with two children, Odie and Lainey Anderson. They also opened a dog boarding kennel in November of 2022 and love meeting new customers and dogs everyday!
Front row, L-R: Camille Biard, Ricky Lopez-Espin ’14
Back row, L-R: Fr. Henry Doyle, Gabrielle Biard ’13, Lilly Derby ’13, and Liam Biard ‘14
2016
2014
In September 2024, Jessica Sherman completed The Pacific Crest Trail, a 2655 mile-long National Scenic Trail from the border of Mexico to the border of Canada. It took six months and six pairs of shoes to walk across the states of California, Oregon, and Washington!
2021
Shayna Kasdan graduated with her Master's in Counseling in April 2024 and she's working as a psychotherapist with adolescents struggling with substance use and co-occuring mental health disorders.
2021
Jakob Perivolotis completed a 2023 summer internship in collaboration with Brown University studying terrestrial radio frequency interfernce (RFI). He was awarded the NASA Space Grant for the 2024-25 academic year, and started student research studying the bulk flow of the cerebrospinal fluid at Barrow Neurological Institute.
On October 29, Emma Politoski (pictured, center, with her two supervisors) received the 2024 Undergraduate Student of the Year Award for Region V given annually by the Association of College Unions International (ACUI). This award is given to an outstanding undergraduate student at a member institution of Region V (Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Manitoba) who has shown dedicated work ethic in the student union/student activities field. The recipient will have demonstrated significant contributions to their home campus and served as a role model for fellow peers and students, in addition to exemplifying the core values of the Association in their work and studies. Emma graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point in December 2024 and will walk for graduation this spring. She plans to obtain her Master of Business Administration in December 2025.
2022 In January, Felipe
Kubo (right) reunited with Linh Nga Nguyen (left) in Rosemont, Illinois. Linh attended the Disney on Ice performance "Let's Dance" in which Felipe performed.
why we give
At Shattuck-St. Mary’s, the spirit of giving starts right here on campus. Our dedicated faculty and staff don’t just educate and mentor students—they also give back financially, demonstrating their deep belief in our mission and their commitment to the future of our School.
After arriving on campus as the Director of the Golf COE ten years ago, it did not take me long to understand how special SSM was. This made the decision to support our students through donating to the continued success of our School an easy choice. The ability to give back to the community through my coaching role and monetarily has been one the most fulfilling things in my career.
— Tim DeSormeau Director of the Golf COE
I donate to the School because I truly believe in the mission and purpose of Shattuck-St. Mary’s. The people, programs, and facilities help develop attributes and skills for our students year after year and I am happy to give back to a place that I feel so strongly about.
— Joe Sawicki Director of Sports Medicine
I’ve donated back to SSM in small ways though annual giving campaigns, but also in unique ways—like inviting student groups out to my farm for hands on experiences with agriculture. When I get an opportunity to share my passion for growing flowers, raising cattle and environmental conservation with students and colleagues, it’s really a fullcircle moment for me. Giving back to SSM, whether through a donation or sharing what I love, just feels like the right thing to do. It’s a small way to support a community that means a lot to me.
— Erin Sellner Chief Human Resources Officer
The reason I’ve always contributed to the Annual Fund is because I know my gift represents more than just a financial contribution. A high rate of faculty participation sends a powerful message of internal support, which can inspire confidence and generosity from other potential donors.
— Dr. Maren LaLiberty Director of the BioScience COE
Send us your favorite SSM flashback photos for a chance to be featured in a future issue! Submit to: communications@s-sm.org.
Family Ties
I joined the SSM community in July 2024 to begin working with the BioScience Center of Excellence. Prior to this move, I had never heard of Shattuck-St.Mary’s School or even visited Minnesota. It was, therefore, quite a surprise to discover that I actually have a family history here. In March 2025, I learned I am related to a long-time teacher (and at one point acting headmaster) at Shattuck School!
It all began with a Christmas card. Each year, my father draws a card depicting momentous occasions for the family that year. The 2024 card includes the famous Clock Tower commemorating my move to SSM. Upon receiving her card, my father’s cousin wrote to him sharing that she had visited Faribault and Shattuck as a child to see her “Uncle Nuba,” who had “taught at Shattuck and… been headmaster during WWII.”
Dr. Nuba M. Pletcher Shattuck School Teacher and Acting Headmaster 1942-1945
“No way,” I thought the next day as Sarah Flagstad walked me through the hall of headmasters’ names and portraits. But sure enough, there was Dr. Nuba Pletcher, acting headmaster 1942-1945! On the hunt to learn more, I visited Kim Bakken and was soon equipped with several yearbooks, a borrowed copy of Robert Neslund’s book (For a Life of Learning and Service), and a copy of Pletcher’s book from the archives.
It has been fun to explore Dr. Pletcher’s legacy at Shattuck to learn more about my family in the process. As it turns out, my journey to SSM has actually been a kind of return, 116 years in the making!
- Dr. Ellee Cook
Dr. Ellee Cook Assistant Director, BioScience COE
Share your SSM Memento!
What do you still have from your days at Shattuck, St. Mary’s, St. James, or SSM? Whether it’s a worn-out jersey, a cherished yearbook, or a photo that brings back unforgettable memories, we want to see it! Share a picture (or a drawing, or collage!) and a few words about your keepsake, and you might be featured in an upcoming issue of Through the Arch. All submissions will be entered for a chance to win a gift certificate to the SSM School Store!
Send your memories to communications@s-sm.org or scan the QR code to upload and help us celebrate the lasting spirit of SSM.
