Fall 2010 Alumni Magazine

Working the Media Alumni, students find success in marketing, broadcasting and journalism

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT Dr. Steven Titus VICE PRESIDENT FOR DEVELOPMENT & ALUMNI RELATIONS Joseph Sweeney ’81 VICE PRESIDENT FOR COMMUNICATION & MARKETING Bob Conover DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Meg (Leuer ’97) Richtman EDITOR Deb Nahrgang Phone: (507) 457-6966 Fax: (507) 457-6967 dnahrgan@smumn.edu

Saint Mary’s University has an App for that Two students in Saint Mary’s University’s iPhone programming class have created an SMU App for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Christopher Engesser ’11 and Stephanie Valentine ’11 designed a new App that allows students and potential students easy access to SMU news and information.

The students, taught by Ann Smith, chair of the Computer Science Department, completed the project in April. The App (named iSMU) is available for free iTunes download and includes the following features: • Access to campus news and blogs • Live sports updates • Activities calendar • Performance calendar and ticket information • Daily Chartwells menu options • Campus YouTube videos and Facebook • Donate to SMU opportunities “Mobile devices like the iPhone give our students the opportunity to develop interesting, useful and educational applications that are accessed via their cell phones,” Smith said. “The beauty of this class is that students can build applications for their peers from the perspective of what is important to students. For example, all of my students loved the Chartwells menu feature — today’s dinner entrees accessible immediately with the touch of a button!”

TO DOWNLOAD The iSMU app is available for newer generations of the Apple iPhone and iPod touch. Your device may require the iOS 4.0 software update to run the app.

Instructions for downloading iSMU 1) Connect to a 3G or Wi-Fi network 2) Access the App Store 3) Select Search from the store’s main menu 4) Enter “iSMU” in the search field & press the Search button 5) Select the app to bring up its Info screen 6) Press the FREE button once 7) Press the INSTALL button once 8) You may be prompted to enter your iTunes account password It is also possible to download the app using your computer and iTunes.≠

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Donny Nadeau ’85 Deb Nahrgang Meg (Leuer ’97) Richtman PHOTOGRAPHERS Chris Ebert ’06 Deb Nahrgang GRAPHIC DESIGN Maria Beyerstedt Denise Hamernik PRODUCTION Pat Beech Pat Fleming Winona Printing Company Saint Mary’s Magazine is published by Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota for its alumni, parents and friends.

Third-class postage paid at Winona, MN 55987-1399.

ADDRESS CHANGES Saint Mary’s Magazine Saint Mary’s University 700 Terrace Heights #21 Winona, MN 55987-1399 ON THE WEB www.smumn.edu/magazine

ABOUT SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a private, Lasallian Catholic institution offering comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs. About 1,400 students are enrolled in the residential undergraduate College at the Winona campus, established in 1912. More than 4,200 students are enrolled in the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs, which offers certificate, bachelor degree completion, master degree, specialist, and doctoral programs. The university delivers education to its adult learners through campuses in Minneapolis, Winona and Nairobi, Kenya; centers in Apple Valley, Oakdale, Rochester and Minnetonka; and at numerous other locations in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Jamaica. Saint Mary’s is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.

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26 WORKING THE MEDIA

FROM THE EDITOR So many alumni are volunteering time and talents to SMU.

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SMU students involved with The Cardinal newspaper and campus radio station KSMR share their hands-on experiences.

Alumni Bill Lunn ’87, Greg Zimprich ’86, Richard Schoen ’70, Beth (Stanciu ’88) Reynolds and John McDonough ’75 are finding success in the areas of marketing, broadcasting and journalism. And, in the case of John McDonough, president of the Blackhawks, a thriving marketing career led to a Stanley Cup win.

NEWS AND VIEWS New trustees announced; Brother Louis DeThomasis awarded honorary doctorate; leadership changes announced; Taylor Richmond benefit celebrates 10 years; Performance Center gets new shell; groups raise money for great causes; commencement news and more.

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40 SPORTS NEWS

12 SGPP UPDATE New vice president named; Oakdale Center opens; Hendrickson Forum a success.

Season highlights recapped; Skrypek retires after 40 years of coaching.

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43 ALUMNI NEWS

14 JAMAICA

Photos highlight past events; full schedule of upcoming activities announced.

Nine M.Ed. students travel from Jamaica to Winona to participate in commencement ceremony.

46 HOMECOMING 2010

16 CTIE NAIROBI Christ the Teacher Institute for Education in Nairobi is helping not only individuals, but also families, communities and societies.

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300 enjoy weekend events; make plans to come back to campus June 24-26, 2011.

48 CLASS NOTES

18 COUNTDOWN TO COLLEGE

Alumni news, weddings, births and deaths

Ninth-graders from inner cities prepare early to succeed in college.

62 I AM SAINT MARY’S

24 STUDY ABROAD Award-winning photos depict sights of SMU travel-abroad students.

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Dean Beckman shares thoughts about why he loves teaching and how he hopes to prepare students for careers in mass communication.

ON THE COVER Working the Media — These Saint Mary’s alumni and students share their success stories and offer advice for upcoming students looking to break into media-related businesses.

FROM THE EDITOR

So many names, so little memory Saint Mary’s thanks advisory board volunteers, others who help make Saint Mary’s so special There’s a running joke in our office that we’re not always the best with putting names to faces. At times, it’s downright embarrassing. Our only saving grace is the self-adhesive nametags we require everyone to wear at university functions.

Truthfully, before I began working here, I remembered everyone’s names, perfectly. I’d be in the grocery store and run into the nextdoor neighbor of my childhood piano teacher and be able to correctly identify her and ask her how her dog was doing.

There are several theories as to why my recollection has Deb Nahrgang more recently gone Saint Mary’s by the wayside. The Magazine editor first is that I recently celebrated one of those milestone birthdays during which festive birthday colors went from bright and cheery colors to black, black and more black. And all the cards I received from jovial well-wishers jabbed about my mind deteriorating from here.

Additionally, since it’s a problem several people in my office have difficulty with, we’ve joked that it could be contagious.

In truth, I think it’s because never before in my life have there been so many people whose names I want to remember.

I was describing last week for a Saint Mary’s outsider what sets Saint Mary’s apart from other higher eds.

“Everyone here knows each other’s names,” was how I started the conversation.

There’s a connection here between students, alums, faculty and staff that spans generations, physical distance or areas of study.

As I further explained what sets SMU apart, I said that Saint Mary’s alumni are devoted like no other. I’m constantly hearing about alums who are dedicating time, talent and resources back to the university, and I think

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there’s a new level of commitment with many of our new university initiatives.

Beyond our Board of Trustees and Board of Regents, alumni and friends of both the undergraduate College and Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs are formally serving the university in a number of ways including: the Alumni Association Board of Directors; the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies Advisory Board; the Athletics Advisory Board; the FirstGeneration Initiative Advisory Board; the Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute for Women Advisory Board; and the Hendrickson Institute Advisory Board. New advisory boards are currently forming for the arts and the sciences as well.

I’ve had the privilege of meeting several of these dedicated alums and friends. They’re traveling long distances, they’re attending meetings, promoting and supporting SMU at various venues, and weighing in on important decisions that affect this university — from programming to fundraising. And too often, they are behind the spotlight. Take a look at the long list of names of these deserving people who warrant our thanks and our support.

This whole magazine is filled with alumni worth remembering, from our

We’re interested in your thoughts We want to hear from you, the alumni, parents and friends of Saint Mary’s University.

You’re welcome to respond to something you read in Saint Mary’s Magazine, or to comment on any subject that involves the past, present or future of the university.

Send letters to Saint Mary’s Magazine Editor, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights #36, Winona, MN 55987-1399 or e-mail editor Deb Nahrgang at dnahrgan@smumn.edu.

alums and students excelling in the areas of broadcasting, journalism and marketing; to our alum walking across continents to end hunger; to the youth participating in Saint Mary’s first Countdown to College program; to our spring graduates in Winona, the Twin Cities, Jamaica and Nairobi; to the many faculty, staff and students striving to make the world a better place.

These are the names I want to remember...

Board of Trustees Gustavo Ramirez Barba, FSC, Ed.D. Brother Francis Carr, FSC ’66 Brother Michael Collins, FSC ’59 Brother Patrick Conway, FSC ’75, M’80, Ed.D. James Coogan ’69 Brother Konrad Diebold, FSC ’61, M’66 Michael Dooley ’66 Michael Dougherty ’76, J.D. Thomas Dyer ’67 Karen George ’76, J.D. Michael Gostomski ’62 William Herzog ’70 Mark Jacobs Linda Kuczma ’78, J.D. Brother William Mann, FSC Brother Michael McKenery, FSC ’84, M’97 Michael Meagher ’87 Paul Meyer ’64 Brother Frederick Mueller, FSC, Ed.D. Salvatore Polizzotto ’67 Brother David Poos Hamid Quraishi Richard Reedy ’76 Mary Ann (Wera CST’64) Remick Joseph Ross ’67, J.D. Terrance Russell ’76 Patrick Salvi ’75, J.D. Mary Ann (Scherer CST’68) Smith Walter E. Smithe, III ’81 Celeste Suchocki Robert Wheeler ’67, J.D. FALL 2010

Trustee Emeriti Lyle Delwiche Thomas Meagher ’53 Loras Sieve ’60 David Thies ’59 Bernie Wagnild Board of Regents Timothy Brown, Ed.D. Ivy Chang Marcel Dumestre Farley Kaufmann Elizabeth Kautz Carlos Lopez Matt Mahmood Russell Michaletz John Montague Kaye O’Leary Loras Sieve ’60 Kathy Wilde M’92 Willie Mae Wilson Athletic Advisory Board Dave Bogie ’74 Bruna Bucciarelli ’76 John Ehlert ’67 Judy (Mullins ’83) Lucas John McDonough ’75 Nick Michaels ’03 Jeremy Miller Bob Paradise ’66 Michael Regan ’79 Terry Skrypek ’70 Tim Thone Jack Zachary ’82 First-Generation Advisory Board Jane (Flynn CST’62) Anderson, Ed.D. BJ Cassin John Demonico ’79, D.D.S. Michael Dougherty ’76 Michael Meagher ’87 Salvatore Polizzoto ’67 Mary Ann (Wera CST’64) Remick Loras Sieve ’60 Elizabeth Throop, Ph.D. Brother Ed Siderewicz, FSC Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership Advisory Board Mark Chronister Julie Hendrickson Michael Kelly Edward Mann

Lindsay McCabe Susan Kenny Stevens, Ph.D. Brother Louis DeThomasis, FSC, Ph.D. Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies Advisory Board Don Aleksy ’80 Donna (Pagliarello ’80) Aleksy Dan Arnold Matt Bubala ’94 Robert Figliulo ’76 Dominic Lawrence ’06, M’10 John Leaf Rhoda Olsen Jack Schmid ’76 Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute for Women Advisory Board Michelle (Haas CST’63) Bailey Bridget Doyle CST’63, Ph.D. Susan (Schlink CST’69) Edel Betty Ford CST’75 Janet Heukeshoven, D.M.A. Sharon Locy CST’63, Ph.D. Mercedes (Brabender CST’61) McGowen, Ph.D. Sandy Maskell CST’64 Maria Pechacek, student rep.

Mary Dunn Siedow CST’64, Ph.D. Terri Wintering CST’73 Peg Winters Alumni Association Board Donald Aleksy ’80 Gayle (Engesser ’88) Brekke Patrick Connolly ’95 Aleksandra “Sasha” Denisova M’07 Jora Deziel ’01 Leah Hebner M’04 Benjamin Heimdal M’04 Joseph Hettinger ’87 Don Ivansek ’83 Henry Jakobsze ’83 Kim Krisman ’01 Grace (Wojski ’77) McNamara Molly Murphy ’97 Robert “Bo” Rettig ’77 Christina Rich M’07 Meg (Leuer ’97) Richtman Nate Semsch ’04 Thomas Sullivan ’72 Joseph Sweeney ’81 Renee Thompson ’03, M’07 Joy Tkachuck M’97≠

CAMPUS RESOURCES WEBSITE www.smumn.edu ALUMNI ASSOCIATION • Winona Undergraduate Alumni (507) 457-1499 Fax: (507) 457-6697 Toll-free: (800) 635-5987, Ext. 1499 alumni@smumn.edu • Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs Alumni (612) 728-5202 Fax: (612) 728-5167 Toll-free: (866) 437-2788 sgppalumni@smumn.edu www.smumn.edu/alumni ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT (507) 457-1579 dnadeau@smumn.edu www.saintmaryssports.com DEVELOPMENT (507) 457-6647 Fax: (507) 457-6697 giving@smumn.edu www.smumn.edu/giving PERFORMANCE CENTER BOX OFFICE (507) 457-1715 tickets@smumn.edu www.pagetheatre.org COMMUNICATION AND MARKETING (507) 457-1497 spopp@smumn.edu ADMISSION – WINONA Toll-free: (800) 635-5987, Ext. 1700 admission@smumn.edu ADMISSION – TWIN CITIES SGPP Toll-free: (866) 437-2788, Ext. 207 tc-admission@smumn.edu JOB OPPORTUNITIES www.smumn.edu/jobs

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LETTERS from Saint Mary’s and keep in touch with many of them.

Gordy just attended the TKE reunion last September and I have annual Griffin reunions with my fellow “Griffinites.” We also try to attend all of our anniversary Homecoming reunions.

We are looking forward to my 35th this June. Saint Mary’s will always be a special place for us.

Who would have thought 38 years ago on that August night that today Gordy and I would be married for 32 years, have two children and four grandchildren? I feel blessed that I have my best friend to share all those Saint Mary’s memories with. I know there are many more couples who met at Saint Mary’s and I am looking forward to reading their stories.

Here are the responses to last issue’s back cover question, “Are you an alum who met your spouse at Saint Mary’s?”

Better late than never Jennifer Johnson ’07 and I were friends since freshman year of college; however we didn’t start dating until her senior year and my junior year. We played intramurals together, hung out with the same friends, and she was even my calculus tutor! We dated for two more years after college and finally tied the knot May 22, 2010. Better late than never!

— John Geske ’08

Great to share memories with soul mate I met Gordy Hofschulte in August of 1971. I was a freshman and he was a junior. We met at a party on one of the first nights of school. Where else would you meet your soul mate? I’d like to say it was love at first sight but we started out as good friends. I waited patiently the next three years for Gordy to realize I was the right girl for him.

Saint Mary’s was common ground for both of us. Gordy’s dad, Carl Hofschulte, was in the graduating class of 1926 and my father Chuck Lentz graduated in 1937. Both of our fathers had a strong affection for their alma mater and Gordy and I share those same feelings. We have made life-long friends

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— Mary (Lentz ’75) Hofschulte

Two educators together for 36 years Saint Mary’s began a Master’s in Education program in the early 1970s.

My husband, Mark Anderson, was one of the first students, and I was assigned to student teach at St. Viator High School in Arlington Heights, Ill. I was his student teacher. Yes. It’s true, and a story that has been told repeatedly for 36 years.

— Carol (Serrani ’70) Anderson

Campus radio station brings couple together Thanks to my friend Tony Zielinski ’95, I became very involved in KSMR, the campus radio station, while I was at Saint Mary’s (1992-1996). Some of my favorite memories of my time at SMU came from time spent in the studio.

One semester we had early Saturday morning auditions for new DJs and a student named Pete Horbenko ’97 came into the studio. Apparently his roommate, Mike Joyce ’96, had convinced him that radio was fun and he should come in and try out. Clearly, Pete had been out very late the night before.

He auditioned and left, and all of us who were on the management team of the station chuckled at him and all of the other students who had come in after late nights.

Needless to say, Pete made the cut and became part of the KSMR family. I

was music director at the time, and we were converting all of our vinyl to minidisc and cataloging them in our new playlist generating system. He had volunteered to help. As we worked together, I found out that we had many mutual friends at SMU, but somehow we had never met until that time.

Our first date was a dance that KSMR sponsored across the river in Cochrane, Wis., and we have been together ever since. Thanks to KSMR, I have a wonderful husband and some great friends. Pete and I will be celebrating our 10-year wedding anniversary this year and we have two wonderful kids, Jack and Violet.

— Rachell (Maras ’96) Horbenko

Fate brings two alums together It was fate that brought my husband Pat ’96 and I together. We both attended Saint Mary’s, only not at the same time, so we didn’t technically meet at Saint Mary’s. We met 11 years after I graduated and eight years after Pat’s graduation.

I was buying a condo on the Northwest side of Chicago and I had to meet with the condo board president before I moved in. The board president wanted to meet me in person to “go over the bylaws.” I found out later that he thought I sounded cute on the phone so he wanted to meet me in person. We met at a local pub and after all the bylaw talk we got to chatting. I asked him where he went to school and he said, “Oh, this small school up in Minnesota, you never would have heard of it.” I said, “Try me.” He said, “Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minn.” I said, “No kidding, when did you graduate?” He said, “97,” and I said, “Hmmm, that’s why I didn’t recognize you, because I graduated in 93.” His mouth dropped open, and we both laughed. We started dating within that year. Some of our dates included road trips back up to Saint Mary’s, visiting the campus and telling our SMC stories. I believe that our similar backgrounds and our faith brought us together. We were engaged in ’07 and married in ’08. (See photo on page 56.) I love the fact that we both graduated from SMU. Even though we did not meet at Saint Mary’s in the ’90s, we were destined to be together today.

— Jennifer (Fleming ’93) Rexroat FALL 2010

LETTERS

Before and after, friendships still close Thanks for your “Campus Notes” over the past year — I like the SMU magazine that just went out, too. Obvious lots of effort went into it over time to get it good!

Not to scare you about your readership, but here’s a “before and after” of five ’64 readers in Florida.

(1) First, “the after” (from left): Leo Reycraft, Jim Whaley, Jack Cannon, Ed Philpott and Joe Jioia.

(2) The ’61 4th Heffron photo includes Jioia, front row far left (arm on ground) and Paul Meyer ’64, far left against wall, second row, flat top, light shirt and a big smile.

(3) 2010 was another good year for the Barracks minireunion. Attending from the class of 1964 are, from left: front, Jack Cannon, Ray Barone, Joe Jioia, Charlie Fiore, Tom Mula; back, Dan Finn, Bill Hughes, Bob Mallon and Jim Whaley.

(4) A 1984 Barracks reunion shows, from left: front, Joe Jioia, Jack Cannon, Tom Mula, Charley Fiore; back, Bob Mallon, Joe Caruso and Ray Barone.

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— Bob Mallon ’64

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News and Views New trustees announced Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota has announced four new members of its board of trustees.

Terrance Russell ’76 of Mendota Heights, Minn., is executive vice president and Mid-America Region manager for Guy Carpenter & Company, LLC, in Minneapolis.

Hamid Quraishi of Winona is president of HASSQ Consulting Company in Winona.

Both began their terms in May. Rejoining the board in February are Trustees Brother David Poos, FSC, and Brother Michael Collins, FSC ’59. Brother Michael, president of De La Salle High School in Minneapolis, Minn., has served the board from 1974-83, 1988-98 and 1999-09. Brother David, principal of Christian Brothers College High School of Saint Louis, Mo., previously served the board between 1998-08.

The university is indebted to these trustees for their dedication and service.≠

SMU Chancellor Brother Louis DeThomasis, FSC, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Manhattan College in Riverdale, N.Y., on Sunday, May 23. Brother Louis, who is also president of Christian Brothers Investment Services-European Union (CBIS-EU), delivered the keynote address during the college’s undergraduate commencement ceremonies.

Leadership changes announced Senior vice president named to lead University Advancement at Saint Mary’s Dr. Steven Titus has been named senior vice president for University Advancement at Saint Mary’s University. Titus is the former vice president for university advancement at Pacific Lutheran University and former president of Midland Lutheran College. He most recently was a member of The Reid Group, a national Catholic consulting practice headquartered in Seattle, Wash.

Titus will lead an integrated university-wide advancement program committed to strategically positioning the university in the competitive arena of higher education. He will work with a talented team of development, alumni, communication and marketing professionals and volunteers to identify, develop and acquire the resources and financial investment that will accelerate Steven Titus the university's emergence as a global, doctoral university.

“Dr. Titus is a seasoned higher education leader with close ties to Winona and Minneapolis,” said Brother William. “I am absolutely delighted to have him join our executive team. His leadership and experience will help Saint Mary’s University achieve its bold vision for the future.”

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Titus said he is pleased to be “joining a university of Saint Mary’s reputation and impact. Saint Mary’s has grown into a global, doctoral-granting university, distinguishing itself as innovative and responsive in both undergraduate and graduate education. Saint Mary’s is one of the most well-positioned universities in the region and I am honored to help lead its strategic future, and to build on its considerable strength through its advancement programs.”

A native of Denver, Colo., Titus is a graduate of Southwest Minnesota State University and holds a law degree from Marquette University and a Ph.D. from The University of Virginia.

Frost named interim vice president for Academic Affairs Dr. Marilyn Frost, professor of psychology, has been named the interim vice president for Academic Affairs for the 20102011 academic year. She has extensive experience in academic administration with the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs and as an associate dean at the College.

Dr. Thomas Mans, former vice president, has returned to teaching, while he will continue to perform certain administrative duties in the undergraduate College. Dr. Mans looks forward to working with students after more than 15 years in higher education administration.≠

FALL 2010

NEWS AND VIEWS

Faculty, staff embark on SOUL trip to San Miguel, Chicago Faculty and staff completed a SOUL (Serving Others United in Love) trip to the San Miguel schools in Chicago May 12-14. Attending were: Denise Hamernik and Adrianne Olson of Communication and Marketing; Dominic Lawrence ’06, M’10 of Development and Alumni Relations; Dr. Joe Tadie ’91, Philosophy; and Dr. Casey Finnerty, Biology. Participants stayed with host families and assisted with tutoring San Miguel students.

The trip gave participants a direct experience with the mission and people of the San Miguel schools — to witness, to listen, and to serve “together and by association.” At the same time, the visit demonstrates to the San Miguel communities a sincere and ongoing commitment to understanding and providing access and support for their students when it comes time for them to attend college.

Tadie hopes the trip becomes an annual event and that even more faculty and staff are able to participate. “Three things struck me as significant in our visit,” he said. “First, I was grateful that staff and faculty were both represented

Dr. Joe Tadie ’91 tutors a math student at a San Miguel School in Chicago.

on the trip. This broad participation was an extremely important sign to the schools and their parents that we are, as an institution, committed to this endeavor. Second, I was really gratified to see some of our alums serving at the schools as long-term volunteers. Third, I

was moved by the meetings we had with the students themselves, but also with their parents and their teachers.

Overall, I would say we had a very rich experience and one that should be replicated frequently in the coming years.”≠

Taylor Richmond benefit celebrates 10 years Nearly 540 people attended Saint Mary’s 10th annual Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance on March 20.

Proceeds from the dance — and a silent auction held on campus — raised $12,347 for this year’s beneficiaries, Bob and Crystal Griffin of Fremont, Minn., and their three sons. Bob underwent emergency surgery for an infection on his back. Doctors removed two vertebrae and replaced them with titanium, leaving Bob with only a 1 or 2 percent chance of ever walking again. He has been going through extensive physical therapy in La Crosse, Wis., since his surgery. Money from the benefit dance and silent auction helped the family with medical expenses and renovations to make their home handicap accessible. Crystal works in the SMU Maintenance Department.

This benefit dance has become an annual tradition since it was started by students in 2001 in honor of Taylor Richmond, son of Saint Mary’s Campus Ministry and Student Activities staff member Nikki Richmond. Each year the event benefits someone in the SMU community in need.≠ RIGHT: Bob and Crystal Griffin (Maintenance Department) were the recipients of this year’s Taylor Richmond Benefit.

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NEWS AND VIEWS

Campus groups Community joins together to bring hope to Haiti

New shell for Performance Center Because of the generosity of the late Joseph C. Page, Saint Mary’s was able to purchase and install a new acoustic shell system for the Page Theatre this summer.

The steel shell, specifically designed and engineered for the SMU theatre, blends in with the architecture, and is surrounded by a high-pressure oak laminate. It stands 25 feet high by 44 feet wide and features two flying clouds with build-in lighting.

“The new shell will improve the quality of sound in our 455-seat Page Theatre,” said Michael Charron ’79, dean of the School of the Arts and chair of the Minnesota Arts Board. “This benefits our own performers, but also allows the university to host a larger variety of musical venues. Winona has become a destination for quality arts programming, and we’re excited to be able to offer another location for performers to consider, thereby increasing arts opportunities in our community.”

The acoustic shell, partially funded by an estate gift in excess of $50,000, was part of the Joseph C. Page Revocable Trust A new shell was Agreement. installed in Page Theatre Page, a lifelong this past summer.

Winona resident and long-time Winona district court clerk, passed away in 1985, leaving an estate valued at $1.5 million and an estate plan that included a bequest to Saint Mary’s. In addition to his many philanthropic gifts at the time of his death, Page established a trust that paid all net income to his long-time deputy clerk during her lifetime. Upon her death in late 2009, the remainder was distributed to Saint Mary’s.≠

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In a cause that struck close to home, faculty staff and students conducted a number of fundraisers throughout the spring to benefit Haiti earthquake relief efforts.

Through Michelet Jean-Charles, a student from Haiti who had close families affected by the earthquake, the SMU community was able to hear first-hand of the devastation.

Approximately $7,250 was raised at Saint Mary’s through a variety of activities and events including an International Showcase of music and dance, a faculty/staff chili cookoff, a Hope for Haiti carnival, the Cardinal Plunge, a Dance for Haiti, an open mic night, a campuswide jewelry swap, Red Card discount cards for Winona merchandise, Let’s Do Lunch potlucks, Jeans for a Cause Fridays, and a local musical performance.

Money was divided among a variety of causes including a Haiti orphanage, the Red Cross, the Brothers of the Christian Schools - LaSalle Haiti Earthquake Appeal, and the Haiti Medical Mission of Wisconsin.

More than 300 people attended the first “Cardinal Plunge” Saturday, March 6, at Michael LaCanne Park. A total of 120 people “plunged” into Lake Goodview to both raise money for Haiti relief efforts and a fund for Michael Mockler, a current sophomore at Saint Mary’s who has undergone surgery for a brain tumor. The event raised $1,600, and approximately $1,400 was collected in outside donations.

FALL 2010

NEWS AND VIEWS

raise money for great causes SMU team raises the roof on Habitat Women Build Forty-two volunteers — proudly yielding hammers and wearing pink — joined the Saint Mary’s Habitat Women Build team to help “raise the roof” on Habitat for Humanity’s 41st Winona County home.

The purpose of the Women Build program is to involve more women in the construction of Habitat homes in order to move more people, especially children, out of substandard housing and into safe, decent and affordable shelters. Although this is Winona County’s first Women Build home, more than 1,500 homes have been built by women nationwide.

Saint Mary’s — which has raised more than $9,400 for the cause — is one of 18 teams of primarily women working on the home. Each team was asked to raise $5,000 and put in 100 volunteer work hours for the Women Build home.

For the group’s largest fundraiser, a silent auction was held this past spring in combination with a special nine-hour marathon KSMR broadcast of “The Black Hole of Radio,” featuring Jeff Hefel of the Business Department and Joe Dulak of the Academic Skills Center. The group also sold chocolate tools and conducted tool-related games.

Construction on this unique home will continue throughout the year, with completion estimated in spring 2011.≠

ABOVE: A small portion of faculty and staff on SMU’s Habitat Women Build team gathered for a photo outside of the construction site.

Relay for Life It was a night of laughter, a night of tears, a night of remembering and a night of hope. On April 9, the Saint Mary’s community participated in the Relay for Life. Team members spent the night walking around the indoor track from dusk to dawn, a representation of the 24-hour fight against cancer. More than 250 students, faculty, and staff came together to celebrate and remember those who have defeated cancer, those currently battling cancer, and those who have lost their lives to this disease.

The event raised more than $20,000 for the American Cancer Society. Activities throughout the night included a silent auction, bingo, games, and a musical performance by the alumni duo, Koo Koo Kangaroo.

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NEWS AND VIEWS

Welcome to Cardinal Legacy students Saint Mary’s extends a special welcome to our Cardinal Legacy students. These are incoming freshmen whose parent(s) also attended or graduated from Saint Mary’s. We are deeply honored that these families have chosen to carry on the SMU legacy. Our Lasallian family continues to grow here on the Winona campus! Incoming Winona freshmen and their alumni parent/s are: Shane Bari — Gayle (Yanchar ’74) Bari and the late Michael Bari ’75 Charlotte Deranek — Suzanne (Zablocki ’83) Deranek Dylan Ethen — Todd and Lucinda (Pudwill ’85) Ethen ’84 Kacey Fuller — Lori Wacha ’09 Thomas Galvin — Elizabeth (Rigali ’85) Rigali-Galvin John Goblirsch — Mariana Ginder M’98 Rebecca Krueger — David Beeksma M’95 Sean Kudjer — James Kudjer ’74 Katharine Lieder — Allan Lieder M’02 David Lunzer — Mary (Schwartz ’81) Lunzer Elyssa Mattson — Brad Mattson ’89 Ryan Menden — James and Ann (Conniff ’87) Menden ’88 Gregory Mollner — Catherine Mollner M’92 Patrick Moore — William and Andrea (’91) Moore ’84

Rebecca Munns — Mark Munns ’83 Jack Pertile — Jeanne (Cavanaugh ’75) Pertile Marcellus Poirier — Dr. Robert Poirier ’61 Reid Smithe — Timothy Smithe ’85 John Soucheray — John and Kathleen (M’07) Soucheray ’74 Heather Valento — Bernadetta (Tomas ’88) Valento Katherine Zuzek — Mark and Janet (M’97) Zuzek M’92, C’96 We also welcome the sons and daughters of College of Saint Teresa alumnae: Scott Malotka — Patricia (Olson CST’86) Malotka If your son or daughter is an incoming freshman and his or her name was omitted, contact Deb Nahrgang at dnahrgan@smumn.edu.≠

175 attend Lasallian Youth Gathering at SMU The Midwest District Lasallian Youth Gathering, “Together in Faith ... Service to Others,” was held July 11-16 at Saint Mary’s. The event, in its 22nd year, drew 175 participants, including current high school students from Lasallian high schools in the Midwest District.

The gathering centered on the Lasallian Youth tenets of faith, service and community — and the students engaged in a week of activities centered on these themes. Students worked on service projects at various locations around Winona, tried their skills at the Challenge Ropes course, gathered for prayer, attended a bonfire and sing along, enjoyed SMU sports facilities, took a trip to Whitewater State Park, and attended a dance. The group also listened to a variety of speakers including Jimmie Briggs, executive director of the “Man Up Campaign,” a global campaign to activate youth to stop violence against women and girls.≠

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FALL 2010

NEWS AND VIEWS

Commencement ceremonies conducted in Winona, Twin Cities On Saturday, May 8, the Winona campus of Saint Mary’s hosted two commencement ceremonies to mark the g in end of the academic year. d n OutstaMariana The Winona campus undergraduate seniorshez and Sanc hlstrom. commencement included student Da David perspectives by Outstanding Male and Female Seniors, David Dahlstrom of Rochester and Mariana Sanchez of Puebla, Mexico. A total of 288 students commenced. A Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit was given to long-time SMU supporter and 1977 alum Dr. John Domanico.

The Winona campus Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs commencement included student perspectives by Jonathan Harmer, M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning, from Plymouth; and Jan Millner, M.A. in Pastoral Ministries, from Carmichael, Calif. A total of 385 students commenced. A Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit was given to Sister Una O’Connor, president of Catholic College of Mandeville, Jamaica, Saint Mary’s partnering institution in the M.Ed. Jamaica initiative.

Additionally, nine members of Saint Mary’s Master of Education-Jamaica program participated in the Winona SGPP commencement ceremonies. The group was joined by Dr. Sandra Hamilton, Ed.D.’08, vice president of the Catholic College of Mandeville (CCM) and coordinator of the M.Ed.Jamaica program. SMU also hosted a commencement ceremony in Jamaica in late September 2010, in conjunction with the CCM commencement, to celebrate with all 19 graduates. (To read more about the M.Ed. program in Jamaica, go to page 14.)

The Twin Cities campus conducted its commencement ceremonies on June 6.

A total of 411 students earned degrees and 271 students commenced.≠ TOP: Dr. John Domanico ’77 received a Presidential Award for outstanding merit during the Winona undergraduate commencement ceremony.

BOTTOM: Sister Una O’Connor received a Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit during the SGPP commencement in Winona.

Saint Mary's students at the Mayan ruins of Zacaleu.

Two student groups follow in footsteps of Brother James Two groups of Saint Mary’s students traveled to Guatemala in May to learn about Lasallian service. Chris McClead, co-director of Campus Ministry, led a Serving Others United in Love (SOUL) trip with students Abby Voigt, Allison Stephens, Shannon Nelson, Rachel Elbert, John Speedling, Kelly Holt, Diana Lundeen, Ellen Bina and Emily DeWitt.

Students John Delwich, Steve Schmidt, Adam Runge and Cullen Gibbons also traveled to Guatemala with Brother Pat Conway ’76, director of vocations for the Lasallian Teacher Immersion Program.

The trips were intended to spark interest on the Winona campus for the life and work of Brother James Miller, a 1966 Saint Mary’s alum who was killed while serving in Guatemala in 1982. The Church has designated Brother James as a “Servant of God” and he is being considered for sainthood. On the two trips, these students experienced firsthand their connection to the broader Lasallian mission.≠ ABOVE: Diana Lundeen with children of the Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos school and orphanage.

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S C H O O L S O F G R A D U AT E A N D P R O F E S S I O N A L P R O G R A M S

Dumestre named vice president for SGPP Saint Mary’s University welcomed Marcel J. Dumestre, Ed.D., as vice president for the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs and professor of Education on June 1.

Dr. Dumestre comes to Saint Mary’s from Regis University, Denver, Colo., where he served as professor and academic dean of the College for Professional Studies since 2006.

Dr. Dumestre supervised the deans of four schools within Regis University College for Professional Dr. Marcel J. Dumestre Studies, comprised of 12,000 students and 700 faculty, and had oversight of all distance education offerings on seven extension campuses with 5,000 students enrolled in totally online degree programs.

Dr. Dumestre holds a Doctor of Education degree from Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tenn., a Master of Religious Education from Loyola University, New Orleans, La., and a Bachelor of Science in Economics from The Florida State University, Tallahassee, Fla. He is published in the areas of educational philosophy, religious education and educational technology.

“We are extremely pleased to have Dr. Dumestre join us in this important leadership role,” said Brother William.

“He brings energy, enthusiasm, and a wealth of experience that will help the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs continue our tradition of excellent education and help existing and new programs grow in significant ways.”

Dr. Dumestre will supervise a leadership team that will have responsibility for graduate and professional programs administered from both the Twin Cities and the Winona campuses.≠

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Anna Shields ’04, Oakdale Center coordinator, and Dr. Marcel Dumestre, vice president for the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs, joined Oakdale Mayor Carmen Sarrack, City Council member Paul Reinke, and City Council member Lori Pulkrabek for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

New center opens in Oakdale Saint Mary’s has opened a new center in Oakdale, Minn., to offer bachelor and master-level classes to learners in the east Twin Cities metro area. The Oakdale location joins Saint Mary’s Minneapolis and Winona campuses and its centers in Apple Valley, Rochester, Minnetonka, and Nairobi, Kenya.

On July 14, Oakdale city officials and Saint Paul Chamber of Commerce members, along with Saint Mary’s staff, faculty, alumni and students celebrated the grand opening of the new site with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Oakdale Mayor Carmen Sarrack and Dr. Marcel Dumestre, vice president for the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs (SGPP) spoke to the importance of opening this center as the ribbon was cut.

Currently, 15 percent of Saint Mary’s SGPP students are east metro residents. The new Oakdale location will help better serve the education needs of these students as well as others from the east metro and Wisconsin.

“Saint Mary’s has been an important part of the Minnesota education community since 1912. We are pleased to join the Oakdale community and extend our services to even more learners in this area,” said Dr. Dumestre.

The Oakdale Center is open and offering education and business programs, with additional courses to come.

Oakdale Center is located at the northeast corner of the intersection of I-94 and I-694, just south of the Rising Stars Gymnastics Academy. The address is 7200 Hudson Boulevard North, Suite 200 in Oakdale.≠

FALL 2010

SGPP

Unprecedented migration is changing the world Dr. Marcelo Suárez-Orozco, a world-renowned researcher on the topics of immigration and globalization, was the keynote speaker at the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership: Forum 2010 on April 28.

As the world is currently in the midst of the largest migratory wave in human history, Suárez-Orozco provided a look into the impact of globalization and immigration on businesses and societies around the world, as well as its impact on the United States.≠

SMU alum honored

by Saint Mary’s College Brother Carlos Gabriel Gómez-Restrepo, FSC, Ed.D. ’99, president of the Universidad de La Salle in Bogotá, Colombia, received an honorary doctoral degree from Saint Mary’s College, Moraga, Calif., during its April 26 convocation ceremony.

Brother Carlos told the audience of faculty, students, staff and visitors that he was touched by the honor.

Brother Carlos is a leading theorist on the relationship of higher education to politics. His innovative management style as executive vice president of Universidad de La Salle led to his appointment as the institution’s president. Under his administrative leadership, Universidad de La Salle received the certification of High Quality from the Ministry of National Education in August 2008.

Gómez-Restrepo has also served as executive secretary of the Lasallian Latin American Region, general coordinator of the 44th General Chapter, and vice president of the International Association of Lasallian Universities.≠

Gathering for a photo during the 2010 Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership forum are, from left: Lindsay McCabe, executive director of the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership; Julie Hendrickson, Hendrickson advisory board member and daughter of the Institute’s founders, Bill ’39 and Jean Hendrickson; award recipient Dr. Eric Jolly, President of the Science Museum of Minnesota; Brother President William Mann; forum speaker Dr. Marcelo Suárez-Orozco; and Brother Chancellor Louis DeThomasis. Dr. Jolly was presented the Hendrickson Medal for Ethical Leadership because of his contributions and commitments as president of the Science Museum of Minnesota, including the production of the first nationally traveling exhibit titled, “RACE: Are We So Different?” which tells stories of race from a biological, cultural and historical points of view.

Brother Carlos Gabriel GómezRestrepo speaks during the 2010 Convocation.

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Students from Jamaica who participated in the Winona graduate commencement ceremony were, from left: front, Evon Sullivan, Sheron Princ Anderson-Sullivan, Sandra Thompson, Barbara McIntosh, Andrea Vasse, (with Sandra Hamilton, vice president at the Catholic College of Mandeville and coordinator of the M.Ed.-Jamaica); back, Andrae Adams, Hayden Wright, Simone Gonsalves and Francine Rochester.

Jamaican students take part in Winona commencement ceremony Huddled together during a chilly May afternoon, the Jamaican graduates’ discussions centered on the need to purchase warmer socks, more umbrellas — and definitely cameras before they did more sightseeing around Saint Mary’s Winona campus and around the community.

In between their tours and an evening dinner, the group tried on their commencement caps and gowns. The room lit up with flashes as they excitedly captured photographs of one another.

Nine students from the Catholic College of Mandeville (CCM) — part of Jamaica 1 Learning Community, the first graduating class from Saint Mary’s University’s Master of Education in Teaching and Learning in Jamaica — expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to participate in Winona’s spring graduate commencement ceremonies.

The Master of Education program is offered by Saint Mary’s University in partnership with CCM. Courses are offered at CCM and degrees are granted through Saint Mary’s.

The partnership began in 2005, and courses started in 2008.

The two schools’ missions are very compatible. At the core, both institutions believe in making education accessible and in providing individualized attention to each student.

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The first graduating M.Ed. community contains 19 learners. The Jamaica 2 learning community contains an additional 38 students, and about 40 students began the program in September for the Jamaica 3 community. The 36credit program is designed for practicing classroom teachers who want to earn a master’s degree as part of a professional learning community.

Barbara McIntosh, Sandra Thompson, Andrae Adams, Evon Sullivan, Hayden Wright, Sheron Princ AndersonSullivan, Simone Gonsalves, Andrea Vassel, and Francine Rochester are all currently working in education, but with different age levels and in various capacities.

One works with teacher education students, others teach youth from fourth grade through the high school level. One coaches track and soccer and focuses on technology classes; one is vice principal at a high school; and one is a guidance counselor.

How each of them found out about Saint Mary’s also differs. Some of them completed their bachelor degrees at the Catholic College of Mandeville and were encouraged to continue their studies. For some, the competitive and affordable tuition was a big draw. For others, it was the flexible

FALL 2010

learning schedule, which allowed them the ability to continue working and attend classes on weekends.

“It’s a wonderful feeling to have a new approach to teaching and learning,” said Wright. “The approach was very informative and I learned a lot. It was a lot of work, and although I’m glad the work is done, I will miss the camaraderie.”

The group teases one another, sharing inside jokes and laughter. The cohort has been through the 36-credit program together and is adamant that the experience has brought them close together. They say they truly care about each other and have helped one another throughout the program.

“No one was left behind,” Vassel said.

The group expressed a thankfulness for program leaders who encouraged and guided them, adding that sometimes phones were active 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as they consulted with each other on projects. They even remember spending an entire night studying at the school together. They joke that they drank a lot of coffee.

But when asked if they have taken what they have learned and applied it in their classrooms yet, everyone in the room wants to talk at once. They each increasingly get louder with their excitement to share experiences.

Princ Anderson-Sullivan said she was introduced to cognitive learning, which raised the level of achievement of her students at a national level — a feat that made the local newspaper. “We’re so excited and enthused about it,” she said.

According to Dr. Sandra Hamilton, Ed.D.’08, vice president at CCM and coordinator of the M.Ed.-Jamaica, one of the graduates had a 4 percent increase in the GSAT (Grade Six Achievement Test) pass rate of her remedial class.

Gonsalves added, “We didn’t learn in a vacuum. Our classroom is the lab. I could not wait until Monday to take back what I had learned during our weekend classes. I see the children now as individuals, not as a class. I want the children to feel safe and that they can share their opinions. As little as they are, I want them to see that we can work together for the betterment of the class.”

Wright said, “I introduced interactive instruction. It excited the children more because students can feel more ownership. They feel excited and wanted to learn more. I am doing things differently and the response of the students is fabulous. ” Others expressed similar stories. Many parents have been asking the educators what has changed. Suddenly, they are finding their students with a new enthusiasm about school.

McIntosh said, “They didn’t just give us specifics, they gave us the principles, so we could adjust and utilize those strategies. We were empowered to find solutions to our problems in the classrooms.”

Saint Mary’s has integrated the M.Ed. program in Jamaica into its programs in the United States. “Through Skype (video), Jamaican learners and facilitators have been connected to learners and facilitators back in Minnesota, creating a beneficial exchange for both learning communities,” said program director Suzanne Peterson.

The group wanted to visit SMU’s Winona campus to experience a community that they had long felt a part of but had not seen.

McIntosh said, “I wanted to associate with the university. I wanted to see and associate with students and wanted to get a feel for the university.”

And, they all said in unison, nodding and smiling, that they wanted to meet the president.

Vassel said she felt comfortable at the Winona campus, despite the cold.

“It’s a clean, safe and secure learning environment, and people have responded to us, made us feel at home,” she said.≠

Collaborative partnership benefits both universities Dr. Scott Sorvaag, Ed.D.’07, associate professor of education, has traveled to Mandeville, Jamaica each of the past three summers to teach a week-long intensive course in the M.Ed. program. He shared his thoughts as he began his course in July.

“I write from Mandeville, Jamaica, as I make final preparations for a course in effective instructional strategies for learners in our M.Ed. program here. This is my third time coming here to collaborate with teachers to advance their knowledge and skills as they work to more fully transform the lives of their students. It is a challenge and a privilege to be here, as Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota has a robust reputation here. There are many things that spread quickly on a small island nation, including the change and growth this particular partnership has fostered.

“I am humbled by the administrative, faculty, and staff effort that has been directed at this partnership’s success. My knowledge of all of the work that has gone into this by others has been evidenced by the spirit and enthusiasm that anyone who has worked to make this possible has when they talk about it. In efforts to improve the lives of others through access to a program of high quality, I have found my peers’ and leaders’ lives improved.

“I can speak more lucidly from my own experience. It starts with all of the challenges of international travel, navigating airports, and winding up and down narrow Jamaican roads. It starts with doubt. Then there are the other moments. That first view of the sea, the familiarity of the town of Mandeville, and the welcoming faces of friends. I always feel welcome in Jamaica . . . the customs agent who welcomed me back, the taxi driver who waited with me and talked about the reggae festival, and the list of other strangers who give the island a mystical glow.

“And then there are those whom I have come to know. My experience of these caring relationships then ascends from being welcoming, to being loving. I consider those I work with here as dear friends . . . sisters and brothers. Sure, there are problems here, but in my experience, those problems are quickly set aside with a quick “no problem” and a posture toward service to others. Our mission is firmly planted in fertile soil. I feel fortunate to be a part of our affiliation with the Catholic College of Mandeville. I have met Lasallians here who did not have the words to describe their commitments to the lives of others. They are Lasallians indeed.”≠

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In Nairobi, 48 students received the three-year Diploma in Education and an additional 61 students received the Bachelor of Education from Christ the Teacher for Education. Two Master of Arts in African Studies degrees were conferred through Maryknoll Institute for African Studies.

Nairobi graduates ready to transform societies Saint Mary’s Nairobi campus hosted its commencement ceremony on April 30. A total of 48 students received the three-year Diploma in Education and an additional 61 students received the Bachelor of Education from Christ the Teacher for Education (CTIE). Two Master of Arts in African Studies degrees were conferred through Maryknoll Institute for African Studies. Dr. Thomas Mans, then vice president for Academic Affairs, attended the ceremony.

CTIE has a broad vision of preparing religious and lay people to transform the societies of Africa and beyond. The annual tuition of $2,500 remains unchanged this year but it is still beyond the means of most lay students.

In an ongoing effort to foster student success in all of the university’s programs, Saint Mary’s has

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inaugurated “Friends of CTIE” to help fund scholarships for students at CTIE. Fundraising activities began this past summer with events like a “Let’s Do Ice Cream” fundraiser on the Winona campus.

The goal is to provide two scholarships each of the next four years. Three campus groups are contributing to this effort, the Campus Spirituality Team on the Twin Cities campus, the Winona campus Volunteer Committee, and the College Campus Ministry team.

To help with this effort please contact or send donations to Nancy Wiltgen ’75, Development and Alumni Relations, (507) 457-1467 or nwiltgen@smumn.edu.≠

FALL 2010

A letter from a Nairobi graduate I am Jacqueline Kiio, a graduate of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Nairobi. My graduation was this year in April 2010 and this marked the beginning of my teaching career and the dawn of the era of transition from depending on others to dependence Jacqueline Kiio on oneself. The dream that began in 2000 became a reality during my graduation; a dream, indeed to go and to touch hearts and to teach the minds of young girls and boys.

I had earlier done a course in institutional management specializing in “front office” and “housekeeping.” After completing this course which lasted for three years, I kept feeling that I had chosen the wrong career and this always caused a lot of uneasiness in me. Nevertheless, I never lost hope, and I knew one day I would be able to change my profession. It was then, in the process of looking for institutions that offer education, that a Brother in the School of Theology at Tangaza College informed me about CTIE and from there the long journey began.

CTIE is not just any other institution. It has changed me and taught me to embrace the spirit of hard work and service. CTIE has taught me how to accommodate others and to be a person of integrity in a society that is challenged by many social ills. I see so many possibilities as a graduate of this esteemed institution. Wherever CTIE students go, they stand out, not because they are so special than others but because of important virtues they have internalized during their four years of study.

Since my graduation, I have been involved as a field research assistant at the SMU’s Maryknoll Institute of African Studies, Tangaza College. During the last emersion program, I was glad to meet a professor from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, and both of us were introduced to the students and field assistants present that day. On this particular day, I was also given an award for being one of the best field assistants in the June/July emersion program. I plan to do volunteer work in teaching amongst the pastoral communities in Northern Kenya.

Truly, I have received freely and so it is my turn to give back to the society.

I would also like to further my education in the future. I am very grateful to God for the gift of the De La Salle Christian Brothers in our midst. Without them, I would not have realized my educational dream. CTIE has restored my dignity and given me hope in life. A number of the students in CTIE come from arid and semi-arid areas where resources are scarce. These areas are very dry and receive little or no rainfall throughout the year. I happen to be one of these students. Actually, that is what makes CTIE unique: being able to accommodate all students of all levels. Thanks so much and may God bless all students and staff at CTIE and Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.≠

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Ninth-graders prepare early to succeed in college First-generation students from under-resourced communities immersed in college life

Kathy Donohue, assistant principal of the San Miguel Gary Comer campus in Chicago, waited in her car at 8 a.m. to pick up one of her students, NiaPearl Minor-Clark. Someone approached her, assuming she was there to buy drugs.

“Anyone waiting in a car in that neighborhood so early on a Saturday is presumed to be buying drugs,” Donohue said.

NiaPearl, an outgoing ninth-grader with a movie-star smile and signature long dreadlocks, describes her Chicago neighborhood as “full of gang activity and destruction” — one where police maintain a constant presence.

Yet NiaPearl smiles and shrugs it off as no big deal. She seems to be more devastated by getting a “B” instead of an “A” in one of her classes.

NiaPearl, one of 25 students who participated in Saint Mary’s first Countdown to College program this summer, was the valedictorian of her eighth-grade class.

Countdown to College (C2C) was created because too often Minor-Clark and the other students of color from these under-resourced communities fall through the cracks of the educational system.

She and other ninth-graders from the inner cities of Chicago, the Twin Cities, Milwaukee, Racine and Tucson, Ariz. were chosen for Saint Mary’s two-week academic camp because of their determination, desire and potential to succeed.

Each of the students was also asked to write an essay.

“I prayed before I wrote the essay,” NiaPearl said. “I wanted to come because I want to get a good job and a good education.” She has aspirations to become a chemical engineer or a computer engineer.

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NiaPearl Minor-Clark

From July 24 to Aug. 7, C2C immersed inner-city students in college prep classes and life on campus. These same students will be welcomed back for an additional three summers, and each summer, students will be joined by a new group of ninth-graders.

C2C is part of SMU’s new FirstGeneration Initiative which provides financial and educational support to first-generation students who demonstrate financial need as well as academic and leadership potential.

Graduates of C2C can potentially earn FirstGeneration Scholarship support to Saint Mary’s University.

C2C students come from different backgrounds, but share several similarities. If you ask them if they like school, the answer is an enthusiastic, “I love school.” If you ask them if they want to attend college, they’ll respond with a firm nod – and many will quickly add that they also want to obtain master’s and doctoral degrees as well. In the classroom, there’s no shortage of raised hands.

“Not every kid dreams of going to college and getting a master’s degree, but with these kids, every single one has that dream,” Donohue said.

What the students hope to do after college varies greatly. Within the group of 25 there’s a future cosmetologist, lawyer, judge, fashion designer, police officer, chef and pediatrician.

Despite their young ages, many have already faced tremendous challenges and obstacles.

Rhonda Greer of Catalyst SchoolsHowland Charter said students in some areas of Chicago can’t go out on the school playground because of gunfire in the neighborhood. “It’s so second nature for the

students,” she said, to be surrounded by violence, gangs and drugs. “They’re like zombies circling the school. (Schools are) blockaded like a prison to keep students safe.”

Currently, about one of every two economically disadvantaged youth of color in the U.S. does not graduate from high school.

Only a small percentage of Latinos and African Americans have college degrees.

“Countdown to College is designed to ensure college success for first-generation students whose parents did not have the opportunity to go to college,” said Dr. Jane Anderson (CST ’62), dean of the School of Education, who helped develop the program.

“First-generation students, many of them students of color from under-resourced schools and communities, are at an economic and educational disadvantage when it comes to reaching and finishing college.”

This summer at Saint Mary’s, C2C students studied reading, vocabulary, writing and math. During the evenings, students unwound with fun activities including water balloon fights, a bonfire, time at the ropes course, and field trips. They stayed in residence halls, ate cafeteria food, and even had homework.

Ozzie Muniz of Chicago called the program simply, “Heaven.” “I’m privileged because not many students have this opportunity,” he said. “So I take advantage of it. I do the best I can in the classes.”

Brother Ed Siderewicz, assistant to the president for First-Generation and Lasallian Initiatives, thinks that Ozzie summarized the camp best when he said, “It really is better to start college before high school.” (continued on pg. 20) FALL 2010

TOP: Dr. Jane Anderson CST'62, left, dean of the School of Education for Saint Mary's University, helped develop Countdown to College.

Joining her are, Brother Ed Siderewicz, back, assistant to the president for FirstGeneration and Lasallian Initiatives; Edith Galvez '11, right, current undergraduate student and director of Countdown to College; and camp participants Caren Cazares and Arshad Williams.

BELOW: Students enjoyed a full two weeks of classroom learning, teambuilding activities and fun free time on campus during Countdown to College.

Participants included, left, Jesus Dominguez and Jonathon Payne; top, Alex DownesBorowski '08, then a sixth-grade teacher at San Miguel Middle School Back of the Yards campus in Chicago; and bottom, Kathy Donohue, assistant principal of the San Miguel Gary Comer campus in Chicago.

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The first Countdown to College participants, along with SMU and home school instructors.

“He’s got the vision,” Brother Ed said.

It’s a vision Saint Mary’s hopes to continue instilling in these students the next three years.

Rhonda Greer said that some of the students cried at the end of C2C.“They’re afraid nothing good will happen to them (until they return next summer),” she said, adding that there are plans for the group to stay connected year-round.

Donohue added, “Countdown to College is a tremendous way to help kids see the future. It’s a wonderful motivating factor.

It’s rare in this world that someone lays this in front of you and says we’ll walk with you, and for free. It’s really a gift from Saint Mary’s. It’s something we didn’t think was possible.”

“These kids will not fall through the cracks,” Brother Ed said. “These kids are going to soar. The finish line is 100 percent graduation (from college). Non-negotiable.”

Meet some of the other Countdown to College participants Arshad Williams Arshad Williams of Chicago remembers one day when he had to walk to school because his mother’s car broke down. On the way, he

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was approached by a man who showed him bags of drugs. “It comes to you when you live in a certain environment,” he said, adding that it all boils down to making good choices.

According to his mother, there’s one choice Arshad (and his three siblings) doesn’t have to make — whether or not they go to college.

“Not going to college is not an option,” he said with a smile.

Javier Madrid Javier Madrid lives near the U.S./Mexico border in McNeal, Ariz. It’s too easy for high school boys to gain access to drug dealing and gang activity.

“It’s so sad,” he said. “It hurts me a lot to see my friends going down that path.

They could go to college too. The Countdown to College opportunity means a lot to my family. Ever since I was little I wanted to be a civil rights lawyer. I feel like I have to do what’s right.”

And, like most other ninth graders, some of Javier’s dreams aren’t quite as lofty or world-changing. “I’d also like to win the state championship in baseball and see the Dodgers win a World Series,” he said.

Jazmine Gonzalez Jazmine Gonzalez of Milwaukee, Wis., has two very different aspirations — to learn French and to become a police officer.

French, simply because she likes the language; a police officer, because she wants to return to her roots in California, where gangs are prevalent and people are living on the streets. “Maybe I can be a resource to stop crime over there,” she said. “I want to be part of the transition to put a stop to it all.”

Jazmine also wants to inspire her two little sisters and make her parents, both Mexican immigrants, proud. “My parents have always worked hard to provide us with a better life,” she said. “Both my parents dropped out of college because of lack of income. Now, my dad is a factory worker; he works in an assembly line making shoes, working long hours. My mom works as a lunch lady in one of the local elementary schools; it is only a part-time position. I see my parents struggle every day and I would like to help them. I would like for my younger sisters to grow up in a safer environment and have a better future.” (continued on pg. 22) FALL 2010

Clockwise from top right: Dr. Joe Tadie, Philosophy Department, teaches a math class; Ozzie Muniz takes part in a reading discussion; students get to know each other with an icebreaker; Chekiya Wilkerson plays a team-building game; Marisol Martinez takes a turn down the zipline at the Challenge Ropes Course; and Manuel Hurtado and Jazmine Gonzalez enjoy some class time.

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Jonathan Payne, Samantha Bangz and Caren Cazares.

What is Countdown to College?

Saint Mary’s Countdown to College (C2C) is a two-week academic camp that provides high school students from under-resourced communities with activities that will help them prepare for successful college experiences.

C2C offers free classes, recreation, field trips, and room and board. Saint Mary’s plans to welcome back the same students for four consecutive summers. Each year a new group of 9th graders will be selected to participate in the C2C experience, resulting in a total camp population of 100 9th- through 12thgraders by the fourth summer.

“To our knowledge, this is the first program in the nation that offers four consecutive years of early immersion in the college experience,” said Dr. Anderson.

Highlights C2C seeks to break down the barriers to higher education by exposing youth directly to the college experience. Each day is filled with college orientation and classes in reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, math and leadership. The schedule also includes supervised study halls, academic contests, sports, recreation, and field trips.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the program is that it includes a teacher or staff representative from each of the participating students’ schools. They co-teach the classes alongside Saint Mary’s instructors. This will help prepare the university instructors to

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work with an increasingly diverse population of college students. In turn, the visiting teachers learn how to set their students up for success in college and how to help create a community of support around the students.

Additionally, parents are welcomed to campus the first weekend of their children’s stay.

Who benefits?

The participants in C2C attend schools in the Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Chicago and Tucson metropolitan areas. Preference is given to graduates of Saint Mary’s middle school partners in the NativityMiguel Network of Jesuit and Christian Brothers’ schools.

A free program C2C is funded for its first four years by a generous donation from Jack and Mary Ann Remick of Rochester, Minn., who are longtime supporters of Saint Mary’s University.

Mary Ann Remick is also chair of Saint Mary’s First-Generation Advisory Board.

Part of the broader ‘First-Generation Initiative’ Countdown to College is the foundation segment of Saint Mary’s broader First-Generation Initiative to improve college access and success.

“Countdown to College and our FirstGeneration Initiative reflect Saint Mary’s mission to make higher education accessible to learners, regardless of their financial situa-

tions,” said Brother William, president.

C2C graduates will receive preferential consideration to participate in Saint Mary’s First-Generation Initiative program, which provides college scholarships and educational support to first-generation students who demonstrate financial need as well as leadership and academic potential. Beginning this fall, up to 15 students are eligible to receive full four-year scholarships. These scholarships will provide full financial support for tuition, room and board, books, computers, spending money, and one semester of study abroad.

“Students participating in Countdown to College may potentially become part of our scholarship program, which would be a seamless continuation of support for them,” said Brother Edmund Siderewicz, assistant to the president for First-Generation and Lasallian Initiatives. “We want to provide full scholarships and opportunities for our FirstGeneration Scholarship students – study abroad, internships, life to the fullest – because we know these students have the potential to accomplish great things.”≠ • Check out a blog that teachers and students from Countdown to College have put together at: http://countdown-tocollege.blogspot.com • To support C2C and SMU’s First-Generation Initiative, email esiderew@smumn.edu.

FALL 2010

Music educator shares benefit of his performance experiences Dr. Ned Kirk hopes to convey to Saint Mary’s music students that, when touring and performing, you have to be prepared for the unexpected. That includes impromptu performances, less than adequate pianos … or even screaming monkeys. But even in the worst of conditions, the connections made with audiences can be profound.

Kirk currently serves as associate professor of piano and chair of the Music Department. Fresh from a hectic 2009-10 concert season, during which he gave more than 20 piano performances on four continents, Kirk looks back on his time performing and teaching both abroad and in the United States — sharing a common love for music that knows no language or cultural boundaries.

Where did you perform this past year during your sabbatical?

I performed 21 concerts in eight states (California, Nevada, Nebraska, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, North Carolina and Florida), Denmark, France, Kenya, Hong Kong and China, and made a side trip to Singapore to prepare for a concert this coming October. In all, I took 33 flights, flying 50,000 miles in 12 weeks.

What were some of the highlights of your tours?

Although I enjoyed all of it and had great experiences everywhere, two big highlights were certainly Kenya and China.

My two weeks in Kenya were organized by the State Department/U.S. Embassy of Kenya. I performed five recitals, gave three master classes and two radio interviews in Mombasa and Nairobi. At end of the trip, I played an impromptu recital at Tangaza College.

Each of the Kenya concerts was widely divergent. The first was to benefit a university in Mogadishu. The second concert took place at the U.S. ambassador to Kenya’s house; it was a private concert for 175 invited guests .... we heard afterward that some high-ranking state department official was there but none of us could figure out who it was.

In Mombasa, I gave a public concert at a private school and that was unusual because it was a digital instrument and it was outside (which I did not know beforehand). I also didn’t know it was going to be 98 degrees and 95% humidity. Then, while I was warming up, there was all this screaming in the trees overhead. I thought the noise was coming from birds, but was told it was monkeys.

Fortunately, they quieted down when it got dark. Here I was, on the banks of the Indian Ocean, in Mombasa, Kenya, performing for 200 people on a digital upright piano, outdoors, sweltering hot and humid, monkeys screaming overhead in the trees, and all I could think about was… WOW, this is so amazing!

Did you have an opportunity to work with students in Nairobi?

I gave talks and master classes to students and music teachers in several countries (using an interpreter when needed). In Nairobi I gave a master class and recital at a boys school for 250 high school music students brought in from all over the city. Eight piano students played for me on an out-of-tune piano with six broken strings. But it was amazing; these kids were absolutely hungry for it. They don’t have pianos at home, so they’re banging out stuff on whatever they can find, wherever they can find it. I met some amazing students who have true musical gifts but opportunities to develop these gifts are extremely limited in Kenya.

How did your experiences in Africa and Asia differ?

In Asia, I started in Hong Kong and then went to China. In China, I did two concerts, one at a university for their music students … and the other at a new multimillion-dollar arts center. I played on the finest piano I’ve ever played on, a 9-foot German Steinway, to an audience of about 1,000. They made a DVD, did television interviews and everyone treated me like a superstar, which felt very strange because I’m not. Artistically that was a highlight, because I had the finest facilities and instruments. Kenya had the worst pianos, but was a personal highlight because of the connections I made with the students. I still get emails from several Kenyan students asking piano questions.

Did you find similarities in these locations as well?

Certain composers and pieces are known everywhere, so certainly that is a common ground. Everybody knows Beethoven. (Since 2007, Kirk has served as artistic and managing director of the Minnesota Beethoven Festival in Winona.)

I also purposely performed pieces that were lesser known but mixed in with at least one popular classical work.

Reactions were always very positive but audience behaviors in different countries were often quite different.

How do you plan to convey these experiences in your teaching?

I am developing a performance-practice class that will serve to raise the level of performance at SMU. With my tours this past year, I intentionally put myself in widely divergent performance situations.

While it is unlikely that our students will ever have monkeys scream during their performances, one must be prepared for anything. The music department is strong and growing, and I’d like to raise the bar for performance even higher.≠ ABOVE: Dr. Ned Kirk performs at the Huizhou Arts Center, Huizhou, China. During his 2009-10 concert season, he gave more than 20 piano performances on four continents.

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Study Abroad Photo Contest Winners

First, Ania McNamara ’11, “Railroad to Auschwitz,” Osweicim, Poland

Each year students submit photographs from their study abroad experiences for an annual photography contest. The 2009-10 winners are: First, Ania McNamara ’11, “Railroad to Auschwitz,” Osweicim, Poland Second, Rachel Elbert ’11, “Waiting on the World,” Lucerne, Switzerland Third, Courtney Keyler ’10, “Venetian Alley,” Venice, Italy On average, 25 to 30 students study abroad through Saint Mary’s programs each semester. Students experience the excitement of living and studying in a different culture together, and bring those shared experiences back to the Saint Mary’s campus.

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FALL 2010

Second, Rachel Elbert ’11, “Waiting on the World,” Lucerne, Switzerland

Third, Courtney Keyler ’10, “Venetian Alley,” Venice, Italy

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Working the Media

Saint Mary’s alumni and students share their success stories in the areas of marketing, broadcasting and journalism.

Bill Lunn ’87 and co-anchor Leah McLean are photographed during a news broadcast in the studio and at the Minnesota State Fair.

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SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

FALL 2010

Bill Lunn News anchor at KSTP-TV, Twin Cities Bill Lunn ’87, news anchor at KSTPTV in the Twin Cities, didn’t originally start out in communications.

At first, he had his heart set on being a biologist.

“I loved it, but I was getting Cs,” he said. “My grades were better in English, so I went with English.”

In May 1986, his father (Bill Lunn ’58) helped him obtain an internship with WBBM-TV, the CBS affiliate in Chicago. Within seconds of walking into the newsroom, Lunn set his sights on a career in TV news.

“There was so much energy and excitement in that newsroom, people yelling and screaming, people on two phone calls at the same time. It was crazy,” he said.

During his career, Lunn, who lives in Stillwater, Minn., with his family, has had a front row seat, watching some of our nation’s biggest stories unfold.

“One of the highlights of my career was a live one-on-one interview with Al Gore election night of 2000,” he said. “That was the controversial election with George W. Bush that was later decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. I was an anchor in Memphis, Tenn., at the time and Gore was growing desperate realizing he was falling behind in his home state. We were able to get him on a satellite feed and pulled off the live interview during our 6 p.m. newscast.”

Another big story was the impeachment of Bill Clinton. “I was standing right there when all of the Democrats in Congress got up and walked out in protest,” Lunn said.

“I reported live using CNN’s Washington bureau.”

Some of the stories he’s covered still haunt him.

“The crash in Hibbing of Flight 5719 in December of 1993 is a story that will stick with me for the rest of my life,” he said. “All these people flying home to the Iron Range for the holidays. I remember the blood in the

snow, the Christmas wrapping paper from presents that loved ones were bringing home. It was heartbreaking.”

Other times, stories are more lighthearted, or inspiring.

He earned a Minnesota Associated Press award for a story he wrote after going wild rice harvesting with Ojibwe Indians in Northern Minnesota. “I turned it into one of the stories I'm most proud of,” he said. “It was a fantastic experience to be in canoes with these guys, watching what their ancestors have traditionally done for hundreds of years.”

Lunn has anchored the 5, 6 and 10 p.m. weekday broadcasts at KSTPTV since May 2009.

He describes some long days.

“My day starts right when I get up,” he said. First, he peruses the local papers so he comes to work prepared, already knowing what's going on.

“I get into work at 1:30 p.m. each day and we have an editorial meeting. I will then write a variety of things for the early newscasts including headlines and stories. We all have our own way of talking, so I go through the newscasts and tweak the copy so it fits my style of speaking,” he said. He describes a full evening of prepping and recording, in addition to three newscasts.

“It’s a very busy day, but I love it,” he said. “I love the give and take with my co-workers — the flow of ideas, debating what we should do and what impacts people the most.”

Lunn credits the English department at Saint Mary’s for helping prepare him for his career. “Dr. Arthur Flodstrom ’64, Brother Larry Oelschlegel and Dr. James Fitzmaurice all had an impact on me,” he said.

“And taking part in plays with Dr. Don Peake also helped me deal with nerves in front of an audience. I also developed a real love for the outdoors in Winona and I have carried that into my reporting.”

He advises students interested in journalism to package a number of valuable skills. “Someone with great writing skills, good speaking skills, who can use a video camera and is also good at website work can succeed,” he said. “Ten years ago, those were four different jobs. Now managers are trying to get more out of their people, so the more you can bring to the table, the more successful you can be.”

Lunn is convinced he chose the right profession. “My career has brought me in touch with so many great people,” he said. “I met my wife (Sheri) in the course of my career. I’ve interviewed and met many celebrities, Willie Nelson, B.B. King, Oprah Winfrey, U.S. senators, and a sitting Vice-President. I also played myself in a cameo in the movie, ‘John Grisham’s The Rainmaker.’ During filming, I got to meet Matt Damon, Danny DeVito and director Francis Ford Coppola. I’ve covered appearances of three different Presidents.

My career has already exceeded what I dreamed about when I was a student at Saint Mary’s.”≠

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Working the Media

Greg Zimprich ’86 with Kevin Garnett.

Zimprich with Dr. J.

ABOVE: Zimprich with Lindsey Vonn.

Zimprich with “The Admiral” David Robinson.

LEFT: Zimprich with Bill Russell.

NEXT PAGE — Zimprich with Nastia Luiken and “The Wizard” Ozzie Smith.

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FALL 2010

Greg Zimprich Director of brand public relations for General Mills If you’ve had your Wheaties this morning, chances are that Greg Zimprich ’86 is — at least in part — responsible.

Zimprich, an 18-year General Mills PR veteran, who lives in Chaska, manages publicity efforts for the company’s 100-plus brands including Wheaties, Cheerios, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, Yoplait and dozens of other household names.

Zimprich’s job has him rubbing shoulders with a list of star athletes that would make any adolescent boy’s jaw drop.

“I’ve had the opportunity to do PR for Wheaties for more than 15 years, so I’ve met nearly every athlete who’s been on the Wheaties box during that time,” he said. “For a lifelong sports fan, it’s been a thrill for me to work with people like Joe Montana, Muhammad Ali, Hank Aaron, Wayne Gretzky, Dr. J – and many of my other boyhood heroes, plus the great champions of today like Albert Pujols, Kevin Garnett and Peyton Manning.”

The Faribault, Minn., native knew back in high school that he wanted to do something in the communication industry.

“My father was on the radio for 35 years, but I wasn’t fortunate enough to get his voice,” he said.

In college, Zimprich — a journalism/public relations major — began gaining valuable work experiences and building his resumé — something he encourages students today to do as well. “I always encourage them to get any practical experience they can to build a strong resumé,” he said. “It could be paid or volunteer or in some other capacity, but it’s important to show initiative and to collect as much hands-on experience as possible. As much as the right coursework can prepare you, nothing compares to practical experience to make you ready for the real world.”

In addition to serving as editor of The Cardinal campus newspaper, Zimprich worked in both the Sports Information and Public Information

departments at Saint Mary’s. He also did some reporting for the Winona Daily News and did an internship with the Faribault Daily News. After graduating from Saint Mary’s, he attended Marquette University and earned a master’s degree in mass communications. From there, he worked at three different PR and advertising agencies, for a total of about six years.

“And, thanks to Dr. Art Flodstrom ’64, I still have my copy of ‘The Careful Writer’ proudly displayed on my desk,” he said.

Zimprich also tells students that they need to be able to write and speak well in the communications field.

“There seems to be an increasing demand for generalists who have a broad-based background, especially with the emergence of social media channels,” he said. “It’s good to know something about video, photography, the Internet and social networking. And if you’re serious about getting into PR, you truly need to become a consumer of the news – you need to know what’s important to the media and what resonates with their readers, viewers and listeners.”

These are all tools he uses in his current position as director of brand public relations for General Mills, a position he’s held for the past five years.

“I lead the team that supports the PR needs of 100+ brands,” he said. “We also are heavily engaged in leading the social media strategies for many of our brands. Our mission is to engage key influencers, like the news media, bloggers and others, to drive advocacy for our brands. We want our brands to be talked about – and we want to generate coverage for our brands in the news media. My team spends a great deal of time working with the brand teams to formulate innovative ideas and effective strategies, and then bring them to life.

“One of the things that

appeals to me so much about PR is that there really is no typical day.

There is so much variety in my work, and that keeps it fresh and challenging.”

And, of course, there are the perks. Zimprich gets to attend the Olympic games, the Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Finals, The Masters, and other national and world sporting events.

What he really appreciates are

the relationships he’s built along the way. “Walter Payton used to call me just to check in,” he said. “Ozzie Smith invited me to be his guest at his Baseball Hall of Fame induction.

And Bill Russell gives me a big hug when I see him at the NBA All-Star Game every year. I really value the friendships I’ve made along the way.”≠

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Working the Media

Richard Schoen Commercial Highlights Ameritech Anheuser-Busch Aunt Jemima Waffles Bell Blue Cross Blue Shield Boys Town Bradford Exchange Bridgestone-Firestone Buick Dealers Association Carpet Town Carrier Heating & Air Conditioning Centel Corporation Certified Grocers Chicago Blackhawks Chicago Park District Chicago Tribune Continental Homes Dean Care HMO Dow Elanco DSW Shoe Warehouse ebDirect EyeMasters Farm Bureau Insurance Fisher-Price Flintstones Vitamins

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SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

Flowers Cobblestone Mill Breads Ford FOX Sports Net New England General Mills Gordon Flesch Company Greater Milwaukee Open Hardee’s Head & Shoulders Houston Astros Huffy Bicycles Hungry Jack Biscuits Illinois State Lottery Indianapolis Star Jeep & Eagle Dealers Association Kellogg’s KO-TV Kraft Cheese Land Rover Discovery LexisNexis Liberty Herbicide Luther Hospital Luv’s Diapers Maryland State Teachers Association Mattel McDonald’s Metamucil

Methodist Hospital Midas Miller Brewing Company Mitre Soccer Shoes Monsanto/Roundup Museum of Science & Industry Nordstrom Nutrasweet Old Milwaukee Omnimax One-A-Day Vitamins Perry Drugstores Pfizer AH Pillsbury Pizza Hut Ponderosa Pontiac Dealers Association Potawatomi Bingo Casinos Procter & Gamble Quaker Quick Grip Racing Champions, Inc. Ralston Purina Red Lobster Regent Corn Insecticide Rick’s Value Centers

Robert Morris College Salvation Army S.C. Johnson Sears Serta Mattresses 7 Up Sheer Indulgence Six Flags Great America Special Export SportsChannel Sprint Long Distance St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital St. Pauli Girl Sunkist Tropicana True Value Hardware United Way US West Viractin VO5 Hot Oil Hair Therapy Shampoo Wheaties Zurich-Kemper Life WFAA-TV

FALL 2010

Richard Schoen Commercial voiceover actor You may not recognize Richard Schoen’s ’70 face, but you’ve undoubtedly heard the theatrical range of his familiar voice.

As a voice actor, Schoen has promoted hundreds of products across the airwaves for more than 30 years.

Schoen’s client list spans from Luv’s Diapers to Metamucil. “I’ve done pretty much A to Z,” he said.

“I’ve done lots of cereals, beers, cars, insurance companies, political advertisements. I just love them all.”

Think back to this familiar commercial. With string orchestral music playing in the background, a voice swiftly narrates: “It’s where we’re at. It’s what you want. It’s on your mind. It’s in your mouth. It’s pork, and it’s catching on. The other white meat.”

The Oak Park, Ill., native credits his music background, which began at Saint Mary’s, as one of the reasons he landed the promo from the Pork Producers Council.

“When I walked in the ad agency, people played me this beautiful piece of orchestral music they had commissioned,” he said. “Then they showed me a long page full of nicely written copy and asked, ‘Can you make it fit?’ I put on my headphones and I heard the music and I paced it.

It had to fit the tone and tempo of the music.”

Schoen’s parents were the ones who convinced their son to consider studying something in addition to music. “My parents thought I should have something to fall back on,” he said. “I went for theatre. It was then called communication arts. They accepted that; I guess they thought music was shakier,” he said with a laugh.

Schoen remembers Blue Angels and Gaslights as a lot of fun and he enjoyed classes with Brother Raymond Long, FSC ’43, Dr. Michael Flanagan ’63 and Dr. Don Peake.

Right out of college, he began singing in a group called Day by Day

that performed around the Midwest.

After moving to Chicago and marrying Jane Cowen ’72, he became a “jobbing singer” — singing with different bands for parties and corporate events.

Schoen started breaking into commercial work about 1975 and was getting regular jingle work in the early ’80s when he crossed over into voiceover acting for both commercial and non-commercial work.

The benefits of his job? For starters, he’s able to wear jeans or shorts into the studio.

“You’re pretty anonymous,” he said. “People know your voice and they don’t really know what you look like.”

“It’s fun, great work. And it’s a great fraternity to be in. You meet a lot of nice people. And it’s kind of a kick to hear yourself on air.”

Certain advertisements really seem to ring a bell. Schoen most often hears “I’ve heard that” when he says, “The right people, the right parts and always the right prices” from Ford or when he sings the SEARS jingle, “There’s more for your life at SEARS.” “During the campaign for SEARS, I sang that tag at a lot of different speeds, in front of live orchestra,” he said. “Those are the jobs that help you with your children’s school and help you build a house.”

Some narratives are easier than others.

“If I do a spot, let’s say for Eggo Waffles, which I did. The copy is very

simple, it’s ‘Eggo waffles, part of this complete breakfast.’ That’s seven words. They hand you the script when you walk in. You come into the studio and meet everybody: the writer, probably, and the producer and you talk and you find out what they want. If there’s music or video or film, you’ll want to watch it to get all the input you can, so you see the spirit and the style of the piece.”

On average, he said, he may record the piece between three and 10 times. “There have been narrations of 60 pages where I was able to do it in an hour,” he said.

You have to be good in this business because the competition is tough.

Schoen tells students that learning to market themselves is critical. “You can have the best voice in the world, but if you don’t know how to put yourself out there and show what’s unique that you offer… .

“At first I was only competing with the best in Chicago and that’s hard enough. Now, you go to a site on the Internet called voicebank.net, and there are agents all across the world. Now I compete with everybody all across the country.”

He advises students looking to break into voice acting to go online and listen to as much of the competition as possible. Then he suggests making a demo and checking out agents. He adds that classes in voice, dialogues and acting are also important.

“It’s fun, great work. And it’s a great fraternity to be in. You meet a lot of nice people. And it’s kind of a kick to hear yourself on air.”≠ • Hear more at: www.richardschoen.com.

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Working the Media

Beth (Stanciu ’88) Reynolds has worked in the radio industry for 22 years.

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FALL 2010

Beth Reynolds DJ with 93.9 LITE FM, Chicago When you ask Elizabeth “Beth” (Stanciu ’88) Reynolds how her career began, she chuckles a little. “It started with a boyfriend in radio,” she says.

Though the relationship didn’t last, his career made a lasting impression. “It really looked like he went to work and had fun, and that’s what your job should be,” she said.

“Confucius says, ‘Choose a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.’ That’s how I choose to look at things.”

After 22 years in the radio industry, Reynolds still refuses to call her career “work.” She currently wears many hats with 93.9 Lite FM in Chicago — from on-air work to guest appearances and from news to traffic reports to commercial voice work and endorsements.

“A lot of the media outlets have cut back because of the economy,” she said. “You kind of have to roll with it. It can be challenging, but it’s doable.”

Reynolds describes her station as being very music-oriented.

“People want their music,” she said. During the week, we want to entertain (our listeners) while they’re working.” Reynolds adds that the station’s family-oriented programming includes favorites from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s.

“We make our stuff real short; we tell them what’s going on, and where it’s happening, your basic who, what, when, why and where. People want as few commercials as possible.

“But they want to know what’s happening in their back yard.

Especially here in Chicago there’s so much to do. People want to know about festivals and things they can take their kids to. When you’re running errands and running the kids around, you flip on the radio. I think radio is always going to be a mainstay.”

Although she doesn’t spend a lot of time on the air talking, her outgoing personality still comes through.

“I talk about my stupidity on the air like when I went into my building and got on the wrong elevator,” she said. “Sometimes they let us write copy for endorsements and certain spots, depending on the client. I just need to know if it’s 30 seconds or 60 seconds. Thirty seconds, to me, is an eternity. I can talk about anything.”

And sometimes, commercial endorsements have some perks.

“Kraft just came out with a new mac and cheese,” she said. “I was down at Navy Pier for two days (doing promotions). I’ve eaten enough mac and cheese that thank God I’m training for the Chicago half marathon.”

“Confucius says, ‘Choose a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.’ That’s how I choose to look at things.”

Reynolds also maintains a personal blog through the station at www.litefm.com/pages/beth.html.

“Some people write about people in entertainment. My blog is more fitness driven. I’m all about yoga, Pilates, running, working out, eating healthy,” she said. “I also put in what I do. People want to know if I’m really doing that half marathon I talk about. Who cares what Snooki is getting arrested for this week?”

Instead of her finding a career, Reynolds said her radio career found her.

As she grew up, the Aurora, Ill., native said she always enjoyed being involved with theatre. “I didn’t think that I would ever truly follow the the-

atrical path, so I tried to find another outlet. Radio is theatre of the mind,” she said.

Reynolds began dabbling in radio while she was a mass communication student at Saint Mary’s.

While taking news writing and reporting and English classes, she also worked at the campus station, where she played a mix of top 40 and alternative music.

And previous to her seven years at WLIT, Reynolds worked at Energy 92.7 and 5, a dance-oriented station.

“Everything that happens along the way shapes your career,” she advises. “Intern, wherever you can get in. With the way the economy is, there aren’t a lot of entry-level jobs.

Make an impact as an intern. Learn different things. Even if your heart is set on being on the air, learn about commercial production. You might find out you have an amazing knack.

You may have your heart set on one thing and find you really enjoy another. It’s really important to learn everything you can, copywriting, producing, anchoring… .”

When people ask Reynolds highlights of her job, she talks about her listeners.

“One of my favorite moments was helping Disney launch their 2010 Volunteerism Campaign here in Chicago, and what I thought was just an interview turned into a fun video on YouTube. I love promoting things like that, things that are community driven and charity driven.

That’s what’s in my heart. It was my goal to avoid ever being on YouTube.

But I’m in there for a good purpose.”≠ To see more of Beth Reynolds’ work go to: • www.youtube.com/watch?v= ClwR2s4fo4Y • www.litefm.com/pages/beth.html

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Working the Media

TOP: John McDonough ’75, president of the Chicago Blackhawks, hoists the Stanley Cup over his head after winning the championship in June.

BOTTOM: McDonough visited SMU’s Winona campus in September. He served as the guest speaker at the college convocation, during which Brother William awarded him with the Presidential Award of Merit.

McDonough also spoke to hockey players and business classes and presented a Q&A to community members. He also took the time to pose with students.

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FALL 2010

John McDonough President of the Chicago Blackhawks Saint Mary’s University boasts a rich hockey tradition — a tradition that includes two players who have been inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame and a handful of others who have gone on to have productive careers in the National Hockey League.

Ironically, 1975 alum John McDonough — the only SMU alum with his name etched on a Stanley Cup — never played hockey. In fact, he never even stepped on the ice during his four years at the Winona campus.

Yet it was under his guidance, as president of the Chicago Blackhawks, that the team captured the Stanley Cup championship with a 4-2 series win over the Philadelphia Flyers in June.

In what Forbes Magazine has labeled the “Greatest Sports-Business Turnaround Ever,” the Blackhawks put an end to a 49-year Stanley Cup drought, earning their first title since 1961.

“Standing on the ice in Philadelphia holding the Cup, it’s awe-inspiring,” said McDonough, who was named president of the Blackhawks on Nov. 20, 2007. “Of all the professional championships, the Stanley Cup is by far the toughest one to win — and watching the players skate around (holding the Stanley Cup above their heads in Philadelphia), you realize that the Cup is the ultimate hockey royalty.”

McDonough admits that mixed in with the euphoria of bringing the Stanley Cup back to Chicago was also a feeling of relief — the lifting of a 49-year monkey off the organization’s back.

“When Game 6 ended and we had won it all, it was a surreal feeling,” McDonough said. “But it was also somewhat of a relief.”

McDonough, who previously served as the senior VP for marketing and president of the Chicago Cubs, has felt the same pressure before, only with a different sport.

“People were always wondering if we were ever going to win (a World Series title). It was kind of the same feeling here (with the

Blackhawks) — especially after losing in the Western Conference finals last year.”

And now that the Blackhawks have sipped champagne from hockey’s holy grail, McDonough would love nothing more than to do it all over again.

“We had a very good season and winning the Cup is great for the city of Chicago and it’s great for the NHL,” McDonough said, noting that the Blackhawks enter the 2010-11 season boasting 102 straight sellouts at United Center. “But once the Cup hysteria dies down, it’s back to business.

“Our theme this year was ‘One Goal,’ and after we won the Cup, it was ‘One Goal Achieved,’ ” McDonough said. “No one said it had to be achieved just once.”

That ‘One Goal’ didn’t come easily.

“When I took over, we were starting from scratch — in fact, if there is a word for starting before scratch, that’s where we were,” explained McDonough, who, in one of his first duties as team president brought the NHL’s 2009 Winter Classic to Chicago, an outdoor contest which pitted the Blackhawks against the Detroit Red Wings in front of 40,818 fans at Wrigley Field.

“We overhauled the entire organization and developed a culture and a Blackhawks way of doing things.

“My responsibility as president is to oversee the entire organization — the hockey side and the business side,” said McDonough. “My role is to make sure to put the right people in the right places to make the right decisions for the betterment of the Blackhawks organization.”

McDonough never dreamed his future would include a Stanley Cup title when he stepped on the Saint Mary’s campus as a freshman in 1971. In fact, twice during his time at Saint Mary’s, his Blackhawks lost in seven games to the Montreal Canadiens in the Cup final.

“I was a big Blackhawks fan growing up, and there was a huge following on campus,” said McDonough. “I have so many fond

memories of my time at Saint Mary’s — there were so many good things that happened to me during my four years there.

“The advice I received from faculty members, the level of education, and the social experiences helped reshape my life. It was a very enriching four years and played a very big role in making me the person I am today.”

And these days, he’s a very popular person.

“I’ve received so many nice notes and heard from so many people — classmates I haven’t seen or heard from in 30, 35 years,” admitted McDonough. “Winning the Stanley Cup is like my Facebook — people I wouldn’t think remembered me are sending their congratulations.

It’s pretty overwhelming, and a bit humbling.”

Speaking of humbling, McDonough was at a loss for words when 12,000 fans showed up when he brought the Stanley Cup back to his hometown of Elk Grove, Ill. “My day with the Cup far exceeded my expectations,” McDonough said. “To have 12,000 people come out was unbelievable.

Everyone wanted to touch it, take pictures with it, just to see it firsthand.

“The Cup is the ultimate rock star.”≠

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Working the Media

Karina Rajtar & Travis Fick Editors at The Cardinal student newspaper Notebooks, pens and newspapers strewn about.

Computers quietly humming.

Humorous banter, interspersed with serious discussions of current events.

And copious amounts of coffee and frosted sugar cookies with sprinkles.

These are the necessities of a college newspaper office.

For 2010 graduates Karina Rajtar of Minneapolis and Travis Fick of Lakeville, Minn., The Cardinal newspaper was their home away from home for two and a half to three years.

Fick, the 2009-10 managing editor, estimates that together they averaged approximately 20 hours of work on each issue. “My life is the Cardinal,” he said.

“I was in here every spare moment,” Rajtar, 2009-10 editorin-chief, added in agreement.

“Every time there was an open space in my planner, I wrote, ‘editing’ and highlighted it.”

Their longest editing night lasted until the eyelid-drooping hour of 5 a.m.

The two admit that the later it got, the “loopier” they sometimes became.

“Twice the caffeine and half the sleep turns into a bonding experience,” Rajtar said.

So what attracted them to the fast-paced, hectic (and sometimes thankless) job of writing for, laying out and editing a student newspaper?

Rajtar, a journalism major, and Fick, a journalism and public relations major, joined the staff for different reasons. For Rajtar, it was because of her love for writing. Fick

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calls himself a news junkie. “I’ve always loved the news. I’m always on CNN,” he said.

But not everyone involved with The Cardinal is headed toward a career in news. This fall Rajtar was hired full time at Nacel Open Door, Inc. in St. Paul, a cultural exchange program. Fick will study Special Education and hopes to specialize in assisting youth with behavior disorders.

“Journalism is one of the areas in which you don’t have to be a journalist to use the skills you’ve learned,” Rajtar said. “It’s improving your ability to communicate.”

Fick estimates his writing skills improved 10 times because of his college newspaper career.

“It’s been a great supplement to my major,” Rajtar said. “Deep down I’ve really enjoyed it. It may sound daunting and overwhelming, but the most frustrating things are often the most rewarding.”

Fick, grinning from ear to ear, jabs back at Rajtar with “Like working with you.”

During the past year, making the paper more visually appealing was an emphasis for the two editors who added a design editor and included more photos and charts in their layouts. They also increased marketing and visibility and made it one of their goals to incorporate a larger variety of students into the newspaper staff. Now 20 to 30 students can be involved in each issue.

They say that the addition of a journalism major at Saint Mary’s has made a difference in the quality of stories. The number of students whose vocabularies include inverted pyramids, leads, sidebars and gutters has increased.

“We are able to emphasize leads and are stricter on editing,” Rajtar said.

The two are proud of the fact that the newspaper has been including more information and newsworthy topics.

“I like the direction that it’s going, especially the news section,” Rajtar said. “We pulled and cut articles, and we cut down on ad space because we had so many stories.”

Of all the stories she’s written, Rajtar most remembers the one revolving around a travel policy change. Both recall a story about the potential discontinuation of French on campus.

“We don’t get a lot of newsy stories because we’re a small campus and word gets around fast,” Rajtar said. “It was fun getting to the bottom of things.”

Fick will most remember a story he wrote about an alum elected to the U.S. Senate (Michael Johanns ’71). “He caught me off guard when he picked up the phone,” he said. “I was expecting a secretary, and it threw me off completely when he answered.

“It was interesting to think that he walked in these halls and now he’s a U.S. Senator.”

Fick and Rajtar like the fact that the paper can be used to facilitate discussions.

“I would like to see more letters to the editor and more editorials in the future — for students to realize that it’s a way to get their voices out on campus,” Rajtar said.

Both Fick and Rajtar also served as vice presidents on Student Senate – which helped them keep a finger on what was

FALL 2010

Students like Karina Rajtar and Travis Fick gain valuable writing, editing and communication skills working at The Cardinal student newspaper.

happening at the university.

Rajtar was also involved with Student Activities, and the volunteer mentors program, helped with the phonathon, and was on the women’s lacrosse team. Both served on the senior class giving committee, and Fick was a speech coach for Winona Cotter High School.

The two compared their planners, both completely covered with ink, check marks and cross outs.

“It’s part of the whole multi-tasking experience,” Fick said. “Now I’m able to do five or six things at the same time. I’m able to negotiate ad

rates, and design ads as well. It’s been a well-rounded experience.”

Both say being involved with The Cardinal has improved their time management skills.

“I was very indecisive,” Rajtar said. “Oh, gosh yes,” Fick piped in.

Giving Fick a sideways squint, Rajtar continued, “A lot of that has disappeared. I’ve also improved my managing and leadership skills, especially dealing with people not making deadlines. But it’s hard when they’re also friends and colleagues.”

Deadlines and computer glitches are two negative aspects that come with the job. The two groan at the memory of a nearly finished issue not saving properly, forcing them to redo an entire evening’s worth of editing.

“Things have gone wrong, but what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, maybe a little crazier,” Rajtar said.

Fick’s advice for the 2010-11 editors is to “Stay on top of things.”

“Be strict about deadlines … and buy a coffeemaker,” he said.≠

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Working the Media

Sarah McDonough General manager at KSMR student radio One of senior Sarah McDonough’s first items of business as the general manager of the campus radio station KSMR is to change the station’s image.

For starters, the station’s lobby area, located in a dark corner of the basement of the Toner Student Center, got a facelift — thanks to a couple gallons of bright sherbet orange paint.

When the DJ booths next door aren’t manned, I-Tunes is blasting everything from Drake to Eric Church or Michael Bublé to Escape the Fate — 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

It’s quite a contrast to early years of the station depicted in old black and white photos. Gone are the vinyl records and turntables.

The all-men staff – frequently photographed in slacks and slicked back hair – has been replaced by the men and women of the university who are as diverse as the music they play.

The original name of the station was KSMW, which was started

by Brother Raymond Long FSC ’43.

It was basically a dead station, which could only be heard in certain areas on campus. Now, with two stations (92.5 FM on campus — and 94.3 FM in the greater Winona area) the listenership has extended beyond Terrace Heights.

On St. Patrick’s Day in 1978, the first voice on the air from the new studio in Heffron Hall was Dave Filipczak ’79, who was also the first general manager. Brother Patrick Callahan, FSC ’66, Brother Raymond Long, FSC ’43 and David O. Thomas were instrumental in the development of KSMR. Now it’s the students who keep the music flowing.

A PR major from Des Plaines, Ill., McDonough had served on the

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executive board of her high school radio station. Near the end of her sophomore year at SMU, a campuswide e-mail went out asking for students to apply to work at KSMR, and she decided to give it a shot.

“I knew there was so much potential with the station that hadn’t been taken advantage of,” McDonough said.

She accepted the job as promotional manager and, as she got involved with more aspects of the station, she was promoted to assistant manager in 2009-2010. This year, she takes over the reins as general manager.

Her job has entailed a lot more than picking out paint samples.

First, McDonough has planned several events to heighten visibility, including a KSMR Bash on the Ice which featured free skating at the ice arena, free food and refreshments, and DJ entertainment, drawing more than 50 students at each event.

She also planned a “Plaza Palooza,” touching on a past KSMR event held more than 10 years ago — only then it was called the allcampus party.

But not everything about her job is a party. There are the technical aspects, like ordering equipment or fixing equipment — and sometimes Mother Nature plays a part in unbudgeted repairs.

This past year, the radio tower was struck by lightning and was relocated on the Saint Teresa campus.

Along with managing the station, she also occasionally has to manage the all-volunteer staff, which includes about 45 students altogether, including the disc jockeys.

The DJ’s shows vary greatly, from hip hop to sports, alternative

to metal, and country to a nostalgic vinyl hour. “We pride ourselves that the station playlist reflects the student body because it’s run by the students,” McDonough said.

One aspect of managing is monitoring content. Most recently that’s included a complaint about the airing of some explicit lyrics.

“We are an all-variety station, but we have to keep it clean,” she said. “With this job you have to be professional and take the negative.

I talked to the DJ and we discussed how to ensure that it wouldn’t happen again in the future.”

She’s creating more positions and interviewing new candidates so more people can take ownership of the station. And she’s busy promoting the station through social media including Facebook, Twitter and the KSMR website.

She also hopes to do remote broadcasts, especially at sporting events, and invest in better equipment.

McDonough has one main goal in mind. “I want us to be the radio station our students are listening to.”

She is motivated by the countless alumni who have worked at the station through the years and have gone on to have successful careers.

“It’s inspiring because this great alumni network is connected to KSMR, and what they’ve learned from it has helped them with what they’re doing now. It makes me further want KSMR to be all that it could be. There is so much potential, and we want to make our alumni proud. They’ve all had a hand in it, and I don’t want their work to go to waste.”

In her free time, McDonough also DJs on KSMR along with her friend and roommate. They call

FALL 2010

Approximately 45 students, including Sarah McDonough, work at the campus radio station, KSMR.

their show “Wah. With Sarah and K.C.” What is Wah, you may ask?

McDonough smiles and shrugs, explaining that it was just a random word/sound to entice people into listening.

The two play alternative and hip hop music and callers ask them for advice. “We’re roommates so we obviously get along and feed off of each other’s energy,” she said.

Once a caller asked for advice about a roommate who never cleans the dishes. The two determined it was a third roommate using a fake name and began to, excuse the pun, “dish” it back.

At first, McDonough admits to being nervous on air. “Anyone can be listening to you,” she said. “And you have that in the back of your mind as you’re cueing up the next song and making sure the levels are OK. Your

hands shake a little bit, but with practice it becomes second nature.”

After graduating McDonough is drawn to the fast-paced nature of advertising, public relations or marketing. “It’s been my passion since high school to find a company or business that needs development work and to create new and different ideas to make it better.”≠

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39

Sports News

40

WOMEN’S HOCKEY

MEN’S HOCKEY

RECORDS: 9-6-2 MIAC, 12-12-2 Overall BRIEFLY: The Cardinals earned their ninth MIAC Playoff berth, finishing fourth in the conference standings after a victory over St. Olaf during the final weekend of the regular season. … Junior Dy-anna Stewart (Eden Prairie, Minn.), sophomore Stevie Fiek (Rochester, Minn.) and freshman Kaye Collier (Hibbing, Minn.) were all named First-Team All-MIAC. … Fiek and fellow sophomore Nicole Olson (New Brighton, Minn.) shared the team lead in points (21), while Olson led the team in goals (12) and Fiek boasted a team-best 12 assists. … Olson scored two or more goals three times last season — including a career-best five-goal outburst against Marian on Jan. 9. … Collier started 24 of the team’s 26 games in goal, compiling a 1.76 goals-against-average and a .936 save percentage (second all-time in SMU history), while her five shutouts were tied for third. … Six of the Cardinals’ last seven games were decided by one goal or less. SMU played 18 games decided by one goal or less last season.

RECORDS: 1-15-0 MIAC, 1-23-1 Overall BRIEFLY: Freshman goalie Jason Horstman (Faribault, Minn.) was named honorable-mention AllMIAC. … Senior Anthony Bohn (Spring Hill, Fla.) was the team’s offensive leader, boasting team highs in assists (12) and points (17), while sharing the team lead in goals with fellow senior Morgan Shepherd (Brainerd, Minn.). … Sophomore Vincent Unklesbay (Maplewood, Minn.) had a team-best, three-assist night vs. Bethel on Jan. 22. …

Junior Ben Kitzmiller (Lambertville, Mich.) led the team with four power play goals. … SMU’s 47 goals came from 18 different players — including career firsts by junior Blake Zemaitis (Mount Prospect, Ill.), junior Nate Peterson (Lambertville, Mich.), junior Chase Marshall (Maple Grove, Minn.), sophomore Nate Percy (Inver Grove Heights, Minn.) and freshman Kevin Wentland (Columbia Heights, Minn.) — while 23 different Cardinals notched at least one point. …

Horstman (Faribault, Minn.) and freshman Andy Scheib (Sun Prairie, Wis.) enjoyed stellar first years. Horstman, who stopped 40 or more shots three times compiled a 4.29 goals-against-average

Fiek

Horstman

SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

WINTER/SPRING 2009-10

and an .880 save percentage in 14 starts. Scheib, meanwhile, finished with a 3.98 GAA and an .889 save percentage in five starts. …

The Cardinals led or were tied in the third period in nine of their 23 games this season.

Bethel on Jan. 23 en route to her first collegiate doubledouble, while freshman Jamie Stefely (Lisle, Ill.) put together a 16-point, 16rebound effort vs. Hamline on Jan. 6. … Thone led the team in 3-pointers (45), while Kulig boasted a teamhigh 79 assists.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

MEN’S BASKETBALL

RECORDS: 4-18 MIAC, 5-20 Overall BRIEFLY: Junior Jess Miller (Carver, Minn.), was named to the All-MIAC First Team, while freshman Jessica Thone (Woodbury, Minn.) was selected to the MIAC’s All-First Year Team. … Miller closed out the season as the Cardinals’ offensive leader, scoring a team-high 350 points (14.0 ppg), while also leading the team in scoring in 13 of their 25 games. …

Miller, who started every game in her collegiate career — a span of 75 straight games — scored 10 or more points in 20 of the team’s 25 games. … Thone accounted for three of the Cardinals’ five 20-point performances this season (27, 22 and 21 points).

Miller (27 points) and junior Cherie Kulig (Independence, Wis.) (24 points) were the other two. … The Cardinals recorded two doubledoubles this season — Thone scored 13 points and added 11 rebounds vs.

RECORDS: 7-13 MIAC, 9-16 Overall BRIEFLY: Juniors Will Wright (Chicago, Ill.) and Lukas Holland (La Crosse, Wis.) were named to the All-MIAC First Team for the second year in a row, while freshman Chris Palmer (Faribault, Minn.) was not only an honorable-mention All-MIAC pick, but also named to the conference’s All-First Year Team. … It was a banner year for Wright and Holland. The two became the 25th and 26th members of the SMU 1,000point club. Wright, who closed out the season as the team’s scoring leader (453 points, 18.1 ppg), currently ranks eighth in career scoring with 1,354 points.

He will enter his senior year 190 points behind No. 7 Ken Jansen, and 557 points behind all-time career leader Marvin Tunstall (1,911 points). … Holland, meanwhile, scored 359 points last season and ranks 22nd with 1,080 career

Miller

Holland

FALL 2010

SPORTS NEWS points. … Holland and Wright each enjoyed 30point performances last season. … Wright scored 10 or more points in all 25 games last season and has reached double figures 66 times in his 70 collegiate games. Wright also scored 20 or more points nine times last season. … SMU finished the season boasting three players averaging in double figures — Wright (18.1 ppg), Holland (14.4 ppg) and Palmer (14.4 ppg). …

Palmer recorded doubledoubles in four of his last five games and finished with 10 or more points and rebounds eight times this season. Along with his seven double-doubles, Palmer also had five games of 10 or more points and nine rebounds. … Wright ranked second in the MIAC in scoring (17.3 ppg in 20 conference games), while Palmer was fourth (15.4 ppg). … Palmer also finished third in free throw percentage (88%) and fifth in rebounding (8.0 rpg), while Wright was fifth in steals (1.44 spg). … As a team, SMU ranked No. 1 in the MIAC in free throw percentage (318-for-414, 77%).

shattering seven school records, while also earning an NCAA National Championships B List time in the 200 backstroke. …

The Cardinal men’s and women’s teams broke 10 school records at the season-ending MIAC Championships, while the men’s squad’s sixth-place finish and 223 total points were also school bests.

BASEBALL

MEN’S MIAC FINISH: 6th WOMEN’S MIAC FINISH: 10th BRIEFLY: Freshman Mark Ross (Dubuque, Iowa) made a huge splash at his first MIAC Swimming and Diving Championships,

RECORDS: 4-16 MIAC, 12-28 Overall BRIEFLY: In their second year under coach Nick Winecke, the Cardinals finished with their most wins since the 2005 season, when the SMU team finished 16-15 overall. …

Senior pitcher Bret Ferschweiler (Rochester, Minn.) enjoyed a career season in 2010, closing out the year with four straight complete games — including two in a four-day span in the final week of the season. The right-hander posted team- and careerbests in wins (3), complete games (6), innings pitched (56.0) and strikeouts (33).

His 4.66 ERA was second to sophomore Casey Jacobson’s (Apple Valley, Minn.) team-leading 4.23. … Junior Joe O’Neill (St. Paul, Minn.) hit a teamleading .313 and was one of three Cardinals to hit above .300 — freshman Vince Lulic (Mendota Heights, Minn. / .305) and sophomore Curt Swanson (Woodbury, Minn. / .302) were the other two.

Ross

Ryan

SWIMMING & DIVING

Skrypek retires after 40 years of coaching If 1970 alum Terry Skrypek’s head coaching career had to be summed up in one word, it would be “winner.”

After 40 years behind the bench — including the last 23 as head men’s hockey coach at the University of St. Thomas — Skrypek announced his retirement in March, stepping down after guiding Hill-Murray High School and the University of St. Thomas to a combined 815 wins in 1,117 games.

“The timing just feels right,” Skrypek said. “I look at this as a new beginning. I’ve been in hockey all my life, so I’d like to stay connected in some way. I could be helping as a volunteer coach with youth hockey, or maybe mentoring some young coaches — who knows?”

Skrypek never had a losing season in 48 years in hockey, including his high school career at Cretin and his college career at Saint Mary’s. He coached Hill-Murray to 325 wins, 13 conference titles and four state championship games — including a state title in 1983.

During his 23 years at St. Thomas, the Tommies went 419-197-46, including a 275-70-23 record in conference regular-season play. Skrypek’s Tommie teams never finished out of the top three in the MIAC hockey standings — including 13 championships, eight runner-up places, and two third-place finishes. He also guided St. Thomas to 23 straight MIAC playoff appearances and reached the NCAA national tournament 11 times — including national championship game appearances in 2000 and 2005.

Skrypek — one of just two Minnesota coaches to win 300 or more games and win a state championship at the high-school level, and also win 400 or more games, reach an NCAA championship game, and be named National Coach of the Year in college — is a member of the Minnesota Hockey Coaches Hall of Fame as well as the Athletic Halls of Fame at Cretin High, Saint Mary’s University and the University of St. Thomas.

“Coaching for me has never felt like work — it's been a labor of love,” Skrypek said. “I always looked forward to coming to the rink every day. I always just tried to get my players to compete hard at all times. We wanted to win, but we wanted to win the right way.”≠

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41

SPORTS NEWS

Simmons

Edwards

Brueggen

… Swanson led the team in home runs (3), RBIs (31), total bases (55) and slugging percentage (.437). …

Swanson shared the team lead in hits (38) with senior Kyle Ryan (St. Paul, Minn.), who also posted team-bests in at-bats (141), runs (27), and stolen bases (17). …

Ryan’s 17 stolen bases tied the single-season record, set

by Kevin Black ’08 in 2008, and his 51 career stolen bases shattered the career stolen base mark of 41, held

by Brian Doll ’99. … Ryan and junior Andrew Warren (Stillwater, Minn.) started all 40 games for the Cardinals this season. Ryan also started every game in his four-year collegiate career — a span of 138 straight starts. … Swanson and Ryan each had 12 multiple-hit games in 2010, while senior Ryan Archambault, Faribault, Minn., boasted a teamleading eight multiple-RBI games.

in conference play in 2010, finishing in a tie with St. Olaf for fourth place in the conference standings.

Unfortunately for the Cardinals, SMU lost the tiebreaker with the Oles for the fourth and final MIAC Post-Season Tournament berth. … Junior Joanna Mangan (Chicago, Ill.) closed out the season as the team’s batting leader, boasting a team-high .375 average. Five other players — Simons (.353), Stenseth (.350), Gannon (.338), junior Mallory Betzold (Farmington, Minn. / .303) and freshman Paige Carter (Rosemount, Minn. / .302) — also finished the season hitting above .300. … Stenseth also led the team in at-bats (137), hits (48) and doubles (12), while Gannon was the team-leader in runs (30), home runs (5), total bases (67) and slugging percentage (.515). …

Stenseth put together a pair of lengthy hitting streaks during her freshman campaign, hitting in 10 straight games early in the season, then closed out the year with hits in nine consecutive games. …

Gannon’s fifth home run of the season was her first collegiate grand slam against UW-River Falls on May 4. … … SMU scored 10 or more runs 10 times in 2010. …

The Cardinals put an end to a 20-game winless streak against nationally ranked St. Thomas with a 3-0 win over the Tommies on April 13.

SMU also had the honor of

snapping a pair of lengthy UST streaks — 71 games without a shutout loss and 165 straight games without a shutout loss to an MIAC school.

FASTPITCH SOFTBALL RECORDS: 13-9 MIAC, 16-24 Overall BRIEFLY: Junior Kellie Simons (Richfield, Minn.) earned All-MIAC First Team and NFCA/Louisville Slugger All-Midwest Region Third Team honors, while junior Katy Gannon (Roselle, Ill.) was a First Team All-MIAC pick and freshman Erin Stenseth (Eau Claire, Wis.) joined Simons on the AllMidwest Region Third Team. … After going 10-12 in the MIAC a year ago, the Cardinals improved to 13-9

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SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

TENNIS MEN’S RECORDS: 1-8 MIAC, 10-13 Overall WOMEN’S RECORDS: 4-6 MIAC, 12-8 Overall BRIEFLY: Sophomore Rebecca Snyder (Eden Prairie, Minn.) was named to the All-MIAC First Team for the second year in a row, while fellow sophomore Bailey Edwards (Fond du Lac, Wis.) also earned First Team honors. … Snyder closed out her sophomore season with a 15-4 record at No. 2 singles, while Edwards finished 16-6 at No. 1.

Edwards’ 16 wins equaled the single-season school record and her 27 wins in her first two seasons at SMU are seventh all-time — just 10 wins shy of the career record. Snyder, meanwhile, is second in single-season wins (15) and eighth in career wins (26). … On the men’s side, Freshmen Mike Lunka (Eagan, Minn.) and Bobby Steingraeber (La Crosse, Wis.) earned First Team All-MIAC honors. …

Lunka and freshman Sam Puff (Eden Prairie, Minn.) each put together a teambest 12 singles wins, ranking them tied for seventh in single-season wins in SMU history. Jeff Halberg found himself sharing the centerstage spotlight, as the Cardinal head coach was

Heinzen

named Co-MIAC Coach of the Year, sharing the honor with Gustavus’ Jon Carlson.

Halberg's Cardinals earned their first MIAC Tournament berth, claiming the No. 6 seed in the postseason tournament.

TRACK & FIELD MEN’S INDOOR / OUTDOOR MIAC FINISH: 10th/9th WOMEN’S INDOOR / OUTDOOR MIAC FINISH: 12th/11th BRIEFLY: Junior Andrew Brueggen (Holmen, Wis.) qualified for both the indoor and outdoor national championships — earning All-American honors with his fourth-place finish in the indoor weight throw, while placing 13th in the outdoor hammer throw. … SMU broke five school records at the MIAC Indoor Championships, while getting all-conference performances from senior Teri Heinzen (Marshfield, Wis.) in the 55 and 200, freshman John Kelly (Rochester, Minn.) in the 55 and Brueggen in the weight throw. … At the MIAC Outdoor Championships, Heinzen was again a double all-conference performer in the 100 and 200, while Brueggen (hammer throw), and juniors Ryan Wockenfus (New London, Wis. / javelin) and Sara Harstad (Chatfield, Minn., weight throw) also earned All-MIAC honors.≠ FALL 2010

ALUMNI NEWS

Mike ’97 and Meg (Leuer ’97) Richtman share their memories and pass along the timeless traditions of Saint Mary’s with their three children, Caroline, Jacob and Elizabeth.

Blog created to share timeless traditions Traditions come and go; some stay for longer than others, like the infamous rubbing of Brother Charles’ head in Heffron Hall for luck before walking into a test. Other traditions have faded, but for many, they are not forgotten. Last spring, an alum contacted me after speaking to a student through the phonathon program.

He wondered why our current students were unaware of the many rich traditions that our university was founded upon. His concern made me wonder how we could better connect current students with our rich Saint Mary’s history.

Much like many of our traditions, our Future Alumni Committee has been around for a few decades. Formerly known as Student Alumni Relations, this student-led club’s goal is to plan programming and events on campus.

These events are designed to share Saint Mary’s traditions and history and to inform our current students about the continued support that our alumni provide to the university. To better connect alumni and current students — and to easily allow the sharing of our valued traditions — a blog has been created, providing an outlet for dialog between alumni and students. Check out this blog and share some of your Saint Mary’s stories with our students. The

students promise to post current happenings on campus to share with you as well. Current students are creating their own traditions. http://smufuturealumni.blogspot.com I also invite you to continue to share with your alma mater the gifts and talents that you possess. We would love to see more of our alumni back on campus during the school year to speak to our students, visit with our faculty and staff, and to witness first-hand the wonderful happenings that occur each day on campus.

As we look toward our centennial in the next couple of years, there will be many opportunities to engage and partner with us. We plan to celebrate this extraordinary milestone by honoring our past, but we will also be looking toward the future. Together, we’ll envision the next 100 years of achievement and growth at Saint Mary’s. We want and encourage you to be part of this exciting time. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to partner to fulfill the university's mission to awaken, nurture, and empower learners to ethical lives of service and leadership.≠

upcoming alumni events Thursday, Nov. 18 Chicago Alumni Networking Luncheon Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011 Chicago Alumni Christmas Gathering Saturday, Jan. 22, 2011 Winona Holiday Gathering Monday, Jan. 31, 2011 Washington, D.C. Alumni Gathering Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011 Winona Theatre Alumni Gathering June 24-26, 2011 Winona Homecoming

For updates on future events for our alumni, go online:

www.smumn.edu/ alumni WWW.SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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ALUMNI: GETTING TOGETHER

Florida Alumni Event Dr. Jon ’48 and Betty Kabara hosted a dinner on Feb. 25, at the Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club in Bradenton, Fla. Posing for a picture with Brother William are John Ehlert ’67 and John and Michele Bohn (parents of Anthony ’10).

Winona Holiday Event On Jan. 16, more than 150 area alumni and friends were greeted

by Brother William at the annual Winona Holiday Gathering on campus. Chris and Dr. Stacey (Mounce ’85) Arnold and Susan (Gibart CST ’85) and Dr. Paul Degallier ’85 enjoyed the opportunity to share holiday greetings.

Benefactor Recognition Event

Chicago Blackhawks Event A group of Saint Mary’s alumni caught Blackhawk fever during the March 7 Chicago Blackhawks/Detroit Red Wings game at the United Center. Bill ’85 and Melissa (Kunert ’85) LaFond were sporting matching shirts — a current Blackhawk jersey and an old Saint Mary’s Redman jersey.

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On April 10, the university hosted its annual Benefactor Recognition Dinner in Minneapolis, celebrating the generosity shown to Saint Mary's through named scholarship funds, planned gifts, and annual leadership gifts of $1,000 or more. Nearly 100 guests were in attendance for dinner and the program which included remarks from two scholarship recipients, Sarah Weir '10 and Matthew Miller M'10 and a video presentation by Development and Alumni Relations student intern, Sarah McDonough '11. Brother William also presented a special Board of Trustees resolution honoring long-time benefactor and trustee, the late Oscar Straub '52. Accepting the award were, from left: Mary Jane Nystrom Straub CST '52, and Steven and Jennifer Straub.

INSET: Rosemary and Loras “Red” Sieve ’60 met with scholarship recipient Michelle Quinn ’11.

FALL 2010

ALUMNI: GETTING TOGETHER

First-Generation Initiative Event On June 22, hosts John ’77 and Joanie (CST ’77) Domanico and Peggy (Drennan ’87) and Mike ’87 Meagher welcomed approximately 50 guests to Gibson’s in Oak Brook, Ill., for an event focused on the FirstGeneration Initiative. Brother William and Brother Ed Siderewicz spoke to the group about the mission and vision of the First-Generation Initiative, and Joe Sweeney ’81, vice president for development and alumni relations, discussed the funds Saint Mary’s needs to raise to provide four years of academic support, scholarships, and expenses for 15 students in each class year. In addition, an incoming FGI student, DeKeisha Horne ’14, who is a graduate of San Miguel Middle School and Fenwick High School in Chicago, talked about the impact that the FGI scholarship and support has already had on her and her family, and about her dreams for the future that will become reality through FGI. Guests included many alumni, several members of the Board of Trustees, friends and benefactors of Saint Mary’s.

Young Alumni Boat Cruise In a full charter boat, more 70 young alumni took to the water for the annual Twin Cities Boat Cruise on July 22, including from left: front, Brittney Stefonowicz ’09, Ashley DeGreeff ’09, Michelle McQuillan ’08, Chelsea Meyer ’09, Sarah Mills ’10 ; back, Robbie Johnson ’09, Anthony Hynes ’10, Jake Flattem ’10, Jesus CamachoRuiz ’09 and Lucas Volini ’10.

Hockey Fundraiser A fundraiser for the men’s and women’s hockey teams was held on July 17. The event was hosted by Hank and Beth (Corcoran ’83) Dreyer, owners of The Wine & Vine Restaurant in Elmhurst, Ill. Pictured with the Dreyers is the SMU men’s hockey coach Bill Moore ’85, right.

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300 come ‘home’ for Homecoming 2010

Alumni enjoyed sunny days of re-connecting, reminiscing and remembering during 2010 Homecoming festivities June 25-27.

A weekend full of activities offered a little something for attendees of all ages.

Alumni golfers tested their games on the greens Friday afternoon. Though there may not have been any hole-in-ones, there was a whole lot of fun!

In the evening, the 50-plus anniversary dinner included more food and festivities.

Brother William presented these seasoned alums with special diplomas, and the group was ready to tour the Marine Art Museum Saturday morning.

Also on Saturday, some Homecoming attendees enjoyed a run, jog or walk through nature during the Gilmore Gallop. Others preferred personal tours of the bluffs, provided by SMU students, or to take in a lap at the pool.

More adventurous alumni and family got a birdseye view of campus while braving the Challenge Ropes Course.

The alumni picnic once again gathered a large group of alumni and their families together for class pictures, good food, cold beverages and the chance to reconnect.

Later that evening, Saint Mary’s presented this year’s Distinguished Alumna Award to Dr. Jane (Weydert ’86) Homeyer of Reston, Va. Lasallian Service Award recipients were James Cunningham ’49 of Coos Bay, Ore., and Christine (Coglianese ’93) Collins of Orland Park, Ill. Additionally, Timothy Horan ’70 of Plymouth, Minn., received the Alumni Appreciation Award.

In addition to numerous off-campus get-togethers, the weekend concluded with a dance party.

H Make plans to get in on the fun during next year’s Homecoming weekend, June 24-26.

More photos and a video recap of Homecoming 2010 are online: www.smumn.edu/homecoming

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SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

ABOVE: The Class of 1985 celebrated in style with more than 80 classmates returning to Winona for their 25th class reunion.

Brother William presents SMU’s first female Distinguished Alumna Award to Dr. Jane (Weydert ’86) Homeyer.

FALL 2010

Alumni from the Class of 1960 and their guests took the opportunity to visit the historic Minnesota Marine Art Museum while in town celebrating their 50th class reunion.

Enjoying the scenic Bridges Golf Club as part of the Alumni Golf Outing were, from left: SMU couples, Beth (Ivantic ’78) and Tom ’77 Kneesel with Susan (Sughrua ’75) and Tom ’75 Schultz.

Jeanne (Halder ’90) Yeager, Marie (Jellen ’90) Pechman and Dr. Rene (Royal ’90) Leaseburg share some laughs during the alumni picnic.

Bob ’60 and Ursula Solczyk and Don ’60 and Joanne Slanina share in a good laugh as they receive a picture of the guys from 50 years earlier during their 50th anniversary dinner.

The Gilmore Gallop 5K walk/run is a family affair.

SMU families enjoyed the challenges of having to cross one another, balancing on a rope 30 feet in the air on the Challenge Ropes Course.

Brother William joins members of the ’85 class in enjoying some sunny weather.

Celebrating his 75th anniversary was Brother Richard Gerlach ’35, left, who was presented with a special anniversary hat by the alumni office. Brother Ed Everett ’50 and Brother Arnold McMullen ’53 joined Brother Richard in the celebration.

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CLASS NOTES

Who’s where, doing what...

1949 Dr. John Masla, Woodbury, Minn., and his wife, Mary Lou CST’49, celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary on June 7, 2010. They are the proud parents of eight children and 19 grandchildren. He served as a professor, chairman and dean at five universities in his 43-year career. After retiring in 1992 he was ordained as a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Sacramento and continued to serve as deacon in St. Paul.

Robert Skemp, La Crosse, Wis., was presented the Senior Lawyers Division 2010 Leonard L. Loeb Award on May 6, 2010.

The award recognizes a lifetime of exceptional contributions to the community and to the goal of justice for all Wisconsin citizens.

Brother Arnold McMullen, FSC, Winona, was inducted into the Christian Brothers High School Hall of Fame in Memphis, Tenn., during ceremonies Jan. 24, 2010.

1956 William Schacht, St. Louis, Mo., finished his college education at St. Louis University after leaving Saint Mary’s. He retired in 1990 from the U.S. Government DMACC and retired from the U.S. Air Force as a First Lieutenant.

1958 Ken Jansen, Loudon, Tenn., is enjoying retirement at Tellico Village near the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, with his wife Kitty (Merrick CST’59) Jansen.

Brother Bernard LoCoco, Moraga, Calif., semi-retired in January from being president of the School of Applied Theology in Berkeley, Calif. During the past year, he did workshops at three sabbatical programs in California, Texas and New Mexico. He also leads retreats and continues to provide spiritual direction.

1962 Dr. David Trudeau, Cornucopia, Wis., has been retired for 10 years and serves a few non-profits. He is president of the ISNR research foundation and has also authored several papers and book chapters.

Phil Feiten, Winona, received the Winona Cotter Alumni Achievement Award on May 21, 2010, for his service to communities both locally and nationally.

1963

1953

Dick Tobin, Palatine, Ill., and his wife, Dorie, have three children and seven grandchildren and he still enjoys working as a commercial realtor for Coldwell Banker.

Tom (Herb) Casey, Scottsdale, Ariz., enjoyed watching the 2010 SMU baseball team play during spring practice in Arizona.

SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

1960

Brother Louis Rodemann, Kansas City, Mo., has left the Catholic Worker community after 28 years of dedicated leadership.

1952

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Dr. Thad Trenn, Colborne, Ontario, had an article dealing with neuroscience and the human condition published in the June 2010 issue of Perspectives on Science and Christian Faith.

1961

James Crinnion, Dallas, Texas, and his wife, Nancy, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Sept. 3, 2010.

Dr. Eugene McEnery, Oak Park, Ill., has five children and 17 grandchildren. He is retired from medicine but keeps busy.

1959

Dr. Parnell Donahue, Brentwood, Tenn., wrote Messengers in Denim, which was released in August 2010.

1950

Matthew McConnell, St. Paul, published a book titled Does the Sky Go on Forever? — a collection of poems and stories.

Dennis Lombard, Lake Worth, Fla., just finished writing his life story Nothing Bad Can Happen to Me for his family. He has been an editor and publisher for Home Times for 20 years.

1965 Aubrey Hollnagel ’06 and Megan Radke ’04, both in the Winona campus Office of Admission, met with Alan Guanella ’08 when they visited him in Rome in February 2010. Guanella, who also worked in the Office of Admission while a student at Saint Mary’s, is at the Pontifical North American College, located in Vatican City. He is a student of the seminary there.

Dr. Kenneth Sirinek, San Antonio, Texas, is serving as professor of surgery and chief of the Division of General and Laparoendoscopic Surgery for UT Medicine San Antonio.

FALL 2010

CLASS NOTES 1967 Dr. Louis Coloia, Palm Springs, Calif., was elected to the Board of the Golden Rainbow Center, a nonprofit organization. He will chair the center’s committee on resource development and corporate communications and coordinate the center’s fifth anniversary celebration.

Dave Crandall, Austin, Minn., was inducted into the Pacelli High School Hall of Fame during the annual ceremony on June 18, 2010.

1968

Reverend Eugene Klein, Springfield, Mo., completed his sixth year in prison chaplaincy in May of 2010. Before working with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, he served over 20 years in the U.S. military.

Randy Mueller, St. Paul, is developing the adult and children’s faith formation programs at the Nativity of Our Lord Parish. He and his wife, Eileen, will be celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary this year.

They have seven children.

Dan Wagner, Adams, Minn., was named the 2010 Minnesota Outstanding Grocer of the Year

by the Minnesota Grocers Association.

1971 Brother Milton Barker, Minneapolis, received the John F. Meyers Award on April 5, 2010. This award is presented to an individual who has supported Catholic education at any level or in any educational setting.

Steve Romanchuk, Oakdale, Minn., is in his second year of retirement and loves every minute of it.

Philip Sagstetter, Rockville, Md., completed 25 years as a software engineer with Lockheed Martin. He is currently working on a classified federal project in Herndon, Va. Michael Semsch, Bloomington, Minn., is the director at the National Handicap Housing Institute.

1974 Dr. Bill McElroy, Wayne, Ill., is a pediatric dentist with McElroy Pediatric Dentistry, Ltd. He and his wife, JoAnne, are proud grandparents.

Ron Toshner, Greenville, Wis., retired after 38 years of service from Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton, Wis. He is involved in many area volunteer activities and enjoys traveling with his wife, Karen. He has two grandchildren, Will and Ethan.

1969 Don Nitti, Winona, was inducted into the Minnesota State High School Mathematics League Hall of Fame. He has been the Cotter High School math team coach for 24 years and has taken Cotter to the state tournament 13 times, finishing first or second in all but one competition.

Daniel Pelowski, Chaska, Minn., retired from Eastern Carver County Schools. He taught math, was the instructional technology coordinator, and coached both the basketball and tennis teams.

Michael Porter, Columbia, Mo., was appointed chair of the department of communications at the University of Missouri, Columbia. He has been a faculty member at Mizzou since 1979.

He and his wife, Rose, travel frequently to visit their five grandchildren who are located in England and Australia.

1970 Dr. Joseph Hellige, Los Angeles, Calif., was appointed senior vice president and chief academic officer at Loyola Marymount University on July 1, 2010.

Joining Captain Robert Feiten in receiving his diploma from Saint Mary’s University are, from left: front, Robin Feiten (Bob's wife), Bob, and Mallory Potok (Bob's granddaughter); back, Dan Feiten (Bob’s son), Julie Kay Feiten (Dan's wife), Lou Feiten (Bob’s son), and Melanie Potok (Bob’s daughter).

Feiten receives diploma 62 years later Captain Robert Feiten received his graduation diploma from Saint Mary’s University 62 years after finishing his college courses. Close family members congratulated Feiten in his hometown of Englewood, Colo., in January 2010, when Jennifer (Butson) Teske of SMU’s Development and Alumni Relations Office presented Feiten with his long-awaited diploma.

Feiten explained that, back in 1948, he was told by Saint Mary’s officials that his thesis was “too good” for an undergraduate degree, and he was asked to rewrite it. Instead, Feiten, a Navy pilot, found another use for his thesis when Navy officials chose to use his unedited research in pilot flight training.

After hearing Feiten’s compelling story, Saint Mary’s University officials decided that Bob’s graduation should finally become official.

Feiten attended Saint Mary's College for two years, starting in 1939. After serving in the Navy for two years, he returned to SMC for another two years. He is listed as an alumnus of 1948, but he considers himself a member of the class of 1943. Now, he has yet another year to celebrate.

After serving his country for 25 years in the Navy as a decorated pilot and then continuing as a pilot for 15 years for United Airlines, Feiten said that receiving his diploma means a lot to him.≠

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CLASS NOTES Dan Zecca, Hinsdale, Ill., and his wife, Susan, have been married for 37 years. They have two children and two grandchildren.

He received the “Good Scout Award” at the annual Boy Scout dinner event in April 2010.

1975 Daniel Alonzi, M’76, Alma, Mich., retired from the public mental health system after 30 years and is now the chief operating officer at Turning Leaf.

Jim Ryan, Golden Valley, Minn., served during the past year as the Social Security Administration outreach lead for E-services, serving as a resource person and panel member for the Hennepin County Library series, recently broadcast on Twin Cities Public Television’s “How Can I Afford Retirement?”

1976 Michael Dougherty, Burnsville, Minn., was appointed to the Commission on Judicial Selection for an at-large attorney member by Governor Tim Pawlenty. He also was included in the nationwide listing of top real estate attorneys in “The Super Lawyers Corporate Counsel” edition in the area of land use/zoning.

Vincent McAleer, Highland Park, Ill., was honored by the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences with the Silver Circle Honor.

Stephen Porter, St. Paul, was recognized by Barron’s Magazine as one of the top 1,000 financial advisors in Minnesota in its Feb. 22 edition.

Dr. Jerome Workman, Newport Beach, Calif., received a financial grant and commission to write a five-volume reference text set titled, World Scientific Publishing Company Handbook of Analytical Spectroscopy: Physical Foundations, Techniques, Instrumentation and Data Analysis. When completed, this would represent Workman’s 17th published reference book.

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1977 Jim Gavin, Mundelein, Ill., accepted a position with Turnaround Management Association as chief financial officer.

Tom Kneesel, Pleasant Prairie, Wis., is still playing music, after getting his start at SMC. He is touring with his band, The Yellowhammers. They have a regular following of SMC alumni from the classes of the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and ’00s.

John Loebel, Mundelein, Ill., is the owner of Medical Imaging Center, Ltd., a multi-modality outpatient imaging center.

Deacon Robert Yerhot, Dakota, Minn., was ordained a deacon for the Diocese of Winona on Aug. 22, 2009. He is assigned to Holy Cross Church in Dakota and Crucifixion Church in La Crescent, Minn.

He also is a clinical social worker at Gundersen Clinic, Ltd. in La Crosse, Wis.

1978 Jane (Troller) Wood, Centennial, Colo., accepted a position with Comstro as a data center architect.

1979 Susan (Leo) Vanderwalker, Palos Heights, Ill., was inducted into the St. Francis De Sales High School Alumni Hall of Fame on May 15, 2010.

1980 Barbara (Carlson) Gorghuber, Las Cruces, N.M., has been teaching high school math for 23 years.

1981 Maureen (Randell) Marek, Winona, accepted a new position as coordinator at SEMCAC Head Start. She will oversee the Head Start classrooms in Winona, Houston and Fillmore Counties.

Jim Wolande, Elmhurst, Ill., is filming a new season of Sound Stage on PBS network and

worked on finishing Kenny Chesney’s 3D movie, which was released in April 2010.

1982 Scott Wright, Vadnais Heights, Minn., is a partner in Faegre & Benson LLP. He was ranked among the nation’s 100 most powerful employment attorneys in a Human Resource Executive special section, published in June 2010.

1983 Rick Long, St. Paul, has been promoted to senior vice president of operations at Center for Diagnostic Imaging.

Reverend Joel McNeil, Des Moines, Iowa, is pastor at St. Catherine Catholic Student Center at Drake University and director of campus ministry for the Diocese of Des Moines.

1984 Patrice Henning, Evergreen, Colo., along with her team “Front Range Fighters,” participated in the two-day 26.6 mile Avon Walk for breast cancer on June 26, 2010.

Leo Schultz, Hoffman Estates, Ill., works for Lawson Software as a financial solution consultant manager.

has undergone surgery and radiation therapy; prospects are good for a full recovery.

1987 Susan Burke, Denver, Colo., has a new job as the director of communications and strategic partnerships for the Colorado Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Connie (Reuter) Fort, Winona, was promoted to assistant manager of consumer lending at Merchants Bank.

Robert Rader, Indian Head Park, Ill., has a new position as chief executive officer with Top Hat Logistical Solutions.

Lisa (Janikowski) Schlosser, Apple Valley, Minn., was voted onto the board of directors for the Minnesota High Tech Association.

Derek Straight, Lake Geneva, Wis., is currently the principal at James C. Bush Elementary School and has recently been named Illinois Elementary Principal of the Year by Horace Mann and the Illinois Principals Association.

Mark Yedinak, Huntley, Ill., works for Zebra Technologies Corporations as a test engineer.

1989 1985 Christopher Rath, Hillsborough, N.J., celebrated 25 years of service with AT&T Labs in June 2010. He continues to work on a diverse range of research projects in the area of computer science.

Reverend Russell Scepaniak, Windom, Minn., was appointed pastor of St. Francis Xavier, Windom, Heron Lake, Sacred Heart, and Sacred Heart Brewster in February of 2010.

1986 Dr. David Appel, Albert Lea, Minn., has worked the past 12 years as a general surgeon. He and his wife, Brenda, have two children ages 16 and 13. He was diagnosed with cancer and

David McCormick, Minneapolis, became a partner with Adkins and Anderson Law Firm.

Brendan McLaughlin, Naperville, Ill., was appointed executive director of O’Hare Noise Compatibility Commission, an inter-governmental agency dedicated to reducing aircraft noise affecting communities near O’Hare International Airport.

1991 Karilynn (Shutte) Doffing, Cottage Grove, Ill., started a new position with Sodexo as the retail and catering manager at Abbott Northwestern, a part of the Allina System.

FALL 2010

CLASS NOTES

Walk Together

Alum walks through 12 countries to end poverty Bob Hentzen ’57 isn’t your typical 74-year-old. He isn’t soaking up the sun with a fishing pole in his hand and he isn’t lounging around in his living room.

Instead, Hentzen is on a personal mission to end poverty, one step at a time.

Hentzen, president and cofounder of Christian Foundation for Children and Aging (CFCA), embarked on a 16-month walk from Guatemala to Chile on Dec. 29, 2009.

The trek, called Walk2gether, will cover 8,140 miles (over 16 million steps) through 12 countries in Central and South America, where CFCA serves more than 182,000 children, youth and seniors.

It’s a moving sight to see Hentzen, at times joined by hundreds of other walkers. Some are CFCA staff, and many others are the people CFCA is serving.

CFCA works with about 308,000 sponsored children and seniors in 23 countries by connecting individual sponsors with those in need. The sponsorship not only includes the basics of providing food, education, healthcare and livelihood, but also gives families hope that they can create a path out of poverty for their children.

As the group draws attention, and inevitably reporters, Hentzen prefers they focus on the other walkers. It’s the reporters who want to hear the stories of these families who garner his respect.

Hentzen said that when he tires, he draws strength from those he’s serving. “What continues to inspire me are our families living in poverty, struggling heroically against tremendous odds,” he said. “They are my heroes.”

Hentzen said there have been many life-affirming stories throughout his trek. In the state of Antioquia, Colombia, a humble farmer handed him a sack with 70 pounds of treeripened mangoes. “I want you to have these,” the man told

Hentzen. “I wanted to offer you papaya also, but they’re not ready yet. By the way, who are you folks?”

“There is so much good work being done through CFCA, and Bob is bringing attention to this. The goal is to get people out of poverty,” said Lou Guillou ’59, who plans to join Hentzen about a year from now in Chile. Guillou, a classmate of Hentzen’s, is on the board of CFCA. Walk2gether’s original goal was to arrive in Chile on April 24, 2011, just after Hentzen’s 75th birthday.

“It’s taking a little longer than they expected through the Andes Mountains,” Guillou said. “They sometimes can’t make their goal of 25 miles per day because of the difficult terrain.

The Chilean desert will also be difficult.”

Hentzen isn’t a stranger to the road. In 1996, he completed a shorter walk, lasting eight months and covering 4,000 miles, from CFCA’s headquarters in Kansas City, Mo. to Guatemala. Walk2gether begins where that walk ended.

Hentzen chose to walk in honor of the people CFCA serves. “By walking with them, we are saying you are not alone,” Hentzen said. “We are listening to you and learning from you.”

Walking is a daily activity in the lives of CFCA’s sponsored members. They walk to school and work, and to collect water and firewood, often covering long distances over difficult terrain. By walking with them, Hentzen said, “I will be more apt to be taken as an equal and a friend.

“I would like to share the tremendously hopeful spirit of this walk. Sometimes we are a small core group walking.

Sometimes we are thousands. Always we are surrounded by untold numbers of people authentically enthusiastic about their membership in CFCA. We walk together in all kinds of weather and over challenging terrain. We listen to one another and pray as equals in this movement to share God’s love.”≠ • To follow the walkers and support Hentzen’s work, go to www.walk2gether.org. To learn more about the organization, visit the CFCA website at www.hopeforafamily.org.

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CLASS NOTES 1992 Julie Costa, Woodbury, Minn., was part of a delegation from Guardian Angel’s Catholic Church that traveled to visit their sister parish community in Teustepe, Nicaragua in February 2010.

Stacy (Leiter) Olson, Maplewood, Minn., and her family are settling in to civilian life now that her husband, Eric, is retired from the Air Force after 18 years. She works as substitute teacher for the Independent School District #622.

Brenda Weisenberger, La Crosse, Wis., is furthering her education in advanced crime analysis in criminal justice through Portland State University.

1993 Amy Van Etten, Santa Monica, Calif., is a franchise manager at Sports Illustrated.

Dr. Cheryl (Ernste) Serb, Wales, Wis., is a family practice physician with ProHealth Care, Inc. She and her husband, Bill ’94, have four children. Bill coaches high school girls’ volleyball.

1995 Danielle Bailey, Edgartown, Mass., celebrated the fourth anniversary of her store “Kiddos” in August 2010. The store in Martha’s Vineyard specializes in gifts, clothing and essentials for newborns to children age 5.

1996 Derek Hemmer, Colorado Springs, Colo., works for Rocky Mountain Bank and Trust as a commercial loan officer and assistant vice president.

Camas (Dimond) Maroney, Burnsville, Minn., is doing contract work in property management after being an at-home mom for seven years.

She and her husband, Matthew, have two children, Annabelle, 8, and Aiden, 6.

1997 Steven Grillo, Vesper, Wis., is the owner of S & L Transport, LLC. Karen (Padden) Kress, Marlboro, N. J., accepted a new position at Bristol Myers Squibb as associate director of information management.

Brian Lepel, Maplewood, Minn., and his wife, Kristina, have four children; Ariella, 6 months; Joseph, 1; Lowell, 12; and Alana, 14. He works for Renovo software while trying to grow the website he created, www.HowBusyRU.com.

Amy Vanderscheuren, Duluth, Minn., was hired as the coordinator of patient and family centered care for SMDC Health Systems.

Dr. Trent Vorlicek, North Mankato, Minn., received the Excellence in Teaching Award 2009-2010 for the College of Science, Engineering and Technology at Minnesota State University, Mankato.

1994 Patrick Brown, Keller, Texas, is working for Pratt & Whitney (United Technologies) as a program manager. He and his wife, Lisa, have a son, Anderson, 1.

Heidi Cava, Cambridge, Minn., was selected as the Rush City branch librarian.

Chris Gogolewski, Austin, Minn., and his wife, Renee, have two children Abigail, 11, and Toby, 9. Chris is a secondgrade teacher at Sumner Elementary. They love spending their free time camping and being with friends and family.

Ann Keen, Geneva, Ill., is the co-owner of The Spice House and vice president at JPMorgan Chase.

Michele Mahoney, Chicago, spent seven months living in Bangalore, India while her husband, Jay Keenan, was on a work assignment. While in India, Michele did volunteer teaching at St. Patrick’s Home of Boys.

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1998 Katie (Hoagberg ’98) Masog, Savage, Minn., has a new position at Twin Cities & Western Railroad as director of accounting.

Richard Petersen, Roseville, Minn., is employed with Appliance Smart in the sales department.

1999 Krista (Knepel) Bitzan, Cary, Ill., has a new position with HealthBridge Fitness Center as the outdoor pool manager.

Suzanne Dahlin, Port Orchard, Wash., is the assistant director of career services for the University of Puget Sound.

Mark Peterson, Savage, Minn., works for U.S. Bank as a relationship manager.

Dr. Angela (Corfits) Timm, Peoria, Ill., graduated from her residency program in July 2009.

She is working at OSFMS, St. Francis Medical Center as an internist and pediatrician.

2000

Schultz shares story of Russian adoptions Mary Schultz ’86 of Greendale, Wis., was in the process of formalizing her second adoption from Russia when adoptions between Russia and the United States were suspended in the wake of an international adoption scandal.

In April a U.S. woman sent a 7-year-old adopted orphan on a plane back to Russia, unaccompanied, explaining in an attached note that she no longer wanted to parent the child. The act garnered international media attention.

Schultz agreed to be interviewed by the BBC because she felt an American adoptive parent’s voice needed to be heard. Her interview aired on PBS World News Tonight in April.

Schultz has now successfully adopted two sons from Russia.≠ For more information, go online: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8650894.stm http://russian-journey-of-love.blogspot.com http://roadhomerussia.blogspot.com

Jaime (McMahon) Albee, Minneapolis, is a business analyst with Fidelity Information Services.

Gwen Fallgren Brooks, Belvidere, Ill., owns and operates a State Farm Insurance Agency.

2001 Laura (Dourney) Carder, St. Paul, graduated from the University of St. Thomas with a Master of Business Administration.

Tessia (Gardner) Melvin, is working on her dissertation at Hamline University in the doctoral program of public administration.

Daniel Sepion, Mobile, Ala., accepted the position of director of residence life and student conduct at Spring Hill College.

FALL 2010

CLASS NOTES 2004 Heidi Andre, Fairbanks, Alaska, joined the law firm of Borgeson & Burns, P.C., a civil litigation firm, as an associate attorney.

Tony Gruenke, Inver Grove Heights, Minn., was promoted to senior account executive at Metro Sales.

Dr. Alissa (Schultz) Sullivan, Stillwater, Minn., received her doctorate in clinical psychology on Aug. 29, 2009. She works for the Minnesota Department of Corrections.

2005 Jennifer (Cochran) Biederman, Winona, was accepted into a doctoral program in conservation biology at the University of Minnesota. She was awarded the four-year Cargill Fellowship to study cold water streams in Southeast Minnesota.

Sister Rita Marie (Josie) Kampa ’08 professed her first vows with the Dominican Sisters of Saint Cecilia in Nashville, Tenn., on July 28, 2009.

SMU alumni in attendance included, from left: front, Alissa Christopherson ’07, Laura Holupchinski ’09, Janelle Krzmarzik ’09 and Alex Theis ’09; back, Carlos Villaneuva ’08, Timothy Hepner ’08, Joel Phelps ’08 and Father Andrew Beerman ’92.

2002 Alissa (Erichsen) Gibson, Winona, was promoted to assistant cashier/senior graphic artist and web designer at Merchants Bank, Winona.

Mary Mihalic, Crystal Lake, Ill., graduated from Northern Illinois University with a Master of Business Administration in 2010.

Kenny Rohrbach, Saint Louis, Mo., was accepted to Physician Assistant School at Saint Louis University. He is a patient care technician with St. John’s Mercy Medical Center.

2003 Dr. Michael Hollandsworth, Flossmoor, Ill., graduated from Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, a part of Midwestern University, with a doctorate in osteopathy. He will be doing his residency in internal medicine at

Reverend Jacob Runyon, South Bend, Ind., was ordained on Oct. 31, 2009.

Julie (Jewison) Schultz, Owatonna, Minn., and her husband, Grant, are the owners of The Costas Candies and Restaurant in Owatonna.

Troy Wagner, Denver, Colo., completed his first year as premium audit supervisor.

Derek Kuglin, Hastings, Minn., is employed at White Rock Bank as a credit analyst.

Jessica Popp, Bluffton, Minn., is bookkeeper/titling clerk with Kal’s Kars.

Bridget Schutz, New, York, N.Y., is working towards master’s degrees in occupational therapy and public health at Columbia University.

Kelly Anne Ohde, Chicago, works with adolescents and young adults with autism for HarrysButtons.com at Easter Seals. Their mission is to improve the lives and futures of individuals with autism by providing vocational training and meaningful employment opportunities.

2007 Stacy Lott, Highland Park, Ill., works at Highland Park Hospital as a nuclear medical technologist.

Jake Olzen, Roselle, Ill., was featured in an article titled “To the beat of a different drum” in Loyola Magazine. He and his housemates founded the Catholic Worker House in Rogers Park, Ill.

2008 Melissa (Bauer) Nielsen, La Crosse, Wis., has a new position as the grant writer for the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

St. James Hospital in Olympia Fields, Ill.

Susan Kelnberger, Washington, D.C., works for the Prince George’s County Public Schools. She is actively involved at her church. She also recently completed the National Marathon and is training for the Marine Corps Marathon.

Sara (Vargason) Lawrence, Winona, accepted a new position at Saint Mary’s Press as marketing associate.

2006 Lynn Albee, Vadnais Heights, Minn., works for the University of Minnesota as a state education technical assistance specialist.

Stephanie Kalina, South St. Paul, graduated from William Mitchell College of Law in January 2010, took and passed the February bar exam, and was sworn in and licensed to practice law in Minnesota in May 2010.

April (Johnson) Kirby, St. Paul, has a new position with Faithful Shepherd Catholic School as a fourth-grade teacher.

Michelle Dougherty, Burnsville, Minn., has moved to Florida and is studying for her master’s degree in theatre studies at Florida State University.

Andrea Hills, Lake Elmo, Minn., completed the Habitat 500 bike ride and raised $1061 for Central Minnesota Habitat for Humanity.

Melissa Launhardt, Rochester, Minn., is the assistant women’s basketball coach for Rochester Community Technical College.

She received her master’s degree in science and management from Cardinal Stritch University.

Allison Rose, St. Louis, Mo., completed her Master of Arts in Historical Theology at Saint Louis University.

Katherine Schares, St. Louis, Mo., has a new position with Tenacious Trivia as a host.

Adam Wiltgen, Decorah, Iowa, accepted a position as general manager of 89.1 FM KPVL, an independent community radio station.

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CLASS NOTES

Alums publish books on Twins trivia and being marginally mature Jim Hoey ’74, a retired Farmington, Minn., history teacher found a way to channel his four passions: history, baseball, writing and statistics.

In his new book, “Minnesota Twins Trivia,” Hoey has captured a remarkable selection of facts about the faces and feats of this team, including spectacular wins and crushing defeats. Do you know what Twins pitching great Bert Blyleven’s real first name is; who was selected to the All-Star game at three different positions; or what part of Met Stadium is being utilized at the new Target Field?

Hoey has unearthed tidbits from every phase of the franchise’s history since their arrival in Minnesota in 1961. Names like Killebrew, Kaat, Puckett and Gaetti will delight seasoned readers while the current crop of stars, including Mauer and Morneau, are also well-represented.

And Hoey knows his stuff. The Eagan, Minn., man has seen more than a thousand Twins games and has transformed his basement into a Twins shrine, complete with benches from the old Metropolitan Stadium.

Dave St. Peter, president of the Minnesota Twins Baseball Club wrote, “Jim Hoey’s ‘Twins Trivia’ book is a must-have for fans across Twins Territory. The depth of the questions, creative concepts and attention to detail span the team’s 50 seasons in Minnesota. This book will challenge even the most passionate Twins fan.”

Copies of the book, Nodin Press, are available at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com.

Colin Sokolowski ’91 is the guy friends call to answer music trivia questions, not for help hanging Sheetrock. He also can’t tell the difference between a Chianti or a Cabernet and he really doesn’t care.

When he’s playing the part of a grownup, he is a communications professional in the field of education and has written a variety of articles for Twin Cities media.

But Sokolowski reveals his plan to never become a grown up in his new book, “The Accidental Adult: Essays and advice for the reluctantly responsible and marginally mature,” published by Adams Media, Avon, Mass., in June 2010.

Part how-to advice and part how-not-to narrative, “The Accidental Adult” leads you along an alternate path through adulthood. He explains, “With it, you'll realize that just because you're older doesn't mean you have to be lamer.”

The book boasts, “If life's the ultimate road trip, it's time to stop listening to the GPS of responsible adulthood. Instead, follow the lead of reluctant grown-up Colin Sokolowski, who proves growing up doesn't necessarily mean selling out. With a little guidance and a sure-fire sanity system for coping with life among the assimilated adults, you can survive the inevitable trek to middle age as an accidental adult and have some fun along the way.”

Colin and his wife, Kelly (Shanle ’93) live in suburban St. Paul with their three children. Other SMU alums have been involved with the “accidental” project including: Mykl Roventine ’93 who designed Sokolowski’s website, www.accidentaladult.com; and Dan Verdick ’87 who helped negotiate his publishing contract. Additionally, several of his SMU classmates are featured prominently in the book.≠

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• To learn more, go to his blog at www.accidentaladult.com/blog or on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ accidentaladult.

FALL 2010

CLASS NOTES 2009 Brian Chaput, Mahtomedi, Minn., is a financial sales banker with US Bancorp.

Alex and Alyssa (Schlageter) Gorgone, Slatersville, R.I., are the co-founders and executive staff of the non-profit organization, The Dave Project: Dedicated Artists for the Vitality of Arts Education, in memory of Alex’s father. For more information, check out www.thedaveproject.com Ashley Kleist, Richfield, Minn., has been in New Jersey volunteering and working at the Marianist Family Retreat Center.

She is entering into four years of formation with the Salesian Sisters.

Mike Majeski ’02 and Michele French were married Sept. 4, 2009 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in New Trier, Minn.

Anna Dehmer ’07 married Matthew Mrdutt of Menomonie, Wis., on Jan. 8, 2010.

Erik LaRock, Kasson, Minn., is a fourth-grade teacher at Neveln School in Austin, Minn. He is the head coach for Austin High Schools girls’ varsity golf team.

2010 Brandon Wanless, St. Paul, was accepted for the Master of Arts in Theology program at Saint Paul School of Divinity.

WEDDINGS Barbara Carlson ’80 to Jim Gorghuber, La Cruces, N.M., on Dec. 27, 2008.

Deb Schlesser ’97 to Chris Schwertel, Galesville, Wis., on May 16, 2009. Fellow Saint Mary’s alumni in attendance were Russ ’96 and Heather (Kjome ’97) Buege, Renee Dietzenbach ’97, Susan Elias ’97, Heidi (Voth ’97) Gaedy, Marie Johnson ’97, Peggie Maher ’97, Deanna (Schwertel ’06) Cooley, Andrea (Blume ’98) Tilkes, Bob Fisher ’97, Mike ’97 and Jill (Peterson ’97) Flores, Xavier Wilson ’97, Tony ’95 and Kim (McLellan ’97) Zielinski.

Gina (Lo Giudice ’98) Curvin, Montgomery, Ala., was married on May 15, 2010 in Santa Rosa Beach, Fla. Melissa Meyer ’00 to Jason Hooks, Arena, Wis., on April 24, 2010. Saint Mary’s alumni in

Eric Sonnek ’07 and Maggie Soucheray ’07 were married Oct. 10, 2009 at Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels in Winona. Saint Mary’s alumni and staff attending included, from left: back, Mark Hartman ’76, Bert Christensen ’73, Chris Markov ’06, Bob Soucheray ’10, Kate Soucheray M’07, John Soucheray ’74, Brian Joyce ’08, Eric Lindquist (staff), Terri (Soucheray ’82) Strauss, Katie Kurtz M’07, Amy (Kurtz M’03) Wilson, Jeff Austin ’08, Dan Duling ’07, Greg Stevens ’74; middle, Alisan (Soucheray ’80) Engle, Brother Arnold McMullen ’53, Cathy (Trusk ’76) Stevens, Dean Beckman (faculty), Annie Harala ’06, Jessica Gzik ’07, Molly (Fenlon ’84) Privette, Erin Marquardt ’07, Kim (Sonnek ’02) Schieber, Angela Schimek ’00, Father Thomas Cook ’93, Stephanie Crowley ’05, Michelle (Mino ’06) Markov, Ashley Luehmann ’07, Jackie Luehmann (staff); front, Kelsey Ibis ’07,Toni Nigrelli ’07, Katie Carnicom ’07, the groom and bride, Anna (Dehmer ’07) Mrdutt, Beth Cleveland ’06, and Jonna Schimek ’07.

attendance were Jean (Goff ’00) Herbst and Sarah Iverson ’00.

Mike Majeski ’02 to Michele French, Hastings, Minn., on Sept. 4, 2009. Saint Mary’s alumni in attendance were Andrew ’02 and Alicia (Blaskowski ’01) Jackola, Tim Larson ’02, Matt Stoddart ’02, Dr. Philip Cochran ’77 (faculty), and Dylan Blumentritt ’02.

Jeffrey Kehl Jr. ’03 to Jennifer Reppa, Barrington, Ill., on Nov. 7, 2009. Parents of the groom are Jeffrey ’78 and Mary (Trimarco ’78) Kehl. Saint

Mary’s alumni in attendance were John Skonieczny ’03 (groomsman), Alexa Brazionis ’03, Mike ’03 and Maggie (Yates ’06) Savin, Ian O’Keefe ’01, Jesse ’03 and Emily (Wright ’03) Walker, Joe Lentino ’03, and Anna (Mukenschnable ’04) Mariano.

Klammer, Albuquerque, N.M., on July 4, 2010. Parents of the groom are Dale ’78 and LuAnn (Lammer ’79) Suilmann.

Bobbi Eberle ’03 to Alan Spalding BS’06, Winona, on June 6, 2009.

Maggie Soucheray ’07 to Eric Sonnek ’07, Minnetonka, Minn., on Oct. 10, 2009.

Ellen Koranda ’06 to Eric Vanden Eykel, Whitefish Bay, Wis., on Jan. 9, 2010.

Joseph Suilmann ’06 to Jessica

Tiffany Kettinger ’08 to Anthony Hoff, Savage, Minn., on Aug. 1, 2009.

Anne Schulte ’07 to Daniel Sill, Rochester, Minn., on Aug. 22, 2009. Jennifer Truhler ’07 was a bridesmaid.

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CLASS NOTES

Annie Nakagaki ‘07 and Adam Solseth '07, Minnetonka, Minn., were married July 17, 2009. Saint Mary’s alumni attending included, from left: Sara Clements ’09, Toni Troumbly ’01, Phil Thomas ’10, Whitney Rappana ’09, Jeff Halberg (SMU staff), Nick Anderson ’09, Jon Sopcak ’09, the bride and groom, Mike Kopischke ’07, Harry Fitzgerald ’08, Abby Rosenthal ’08, Andy Weigman ’10, Kasey Schultz ’08, Steve Clements ’08 and Eric Saindon ’07.

Christina Gersch ’08 married Jesse Polk ’08 on Oct. 10, 2009, at St. John Neumann in Eagan, Minn. SMU alumni in attendance included, from left: back, Adam Fingerhut ’06, Ryan Radke ’08, Tom Stewart ’06, David Gross ’08, Andy Roberts ’09, Kelly Tanke ’08, Abbey D’Acquisto ’08, Gordie Johnson ’09, Molly Strusz ’08, Pat Chambers ’06, Graham Kuehner ’08, Marcus Reszka ’06; center, Jennifer Stewart ’06, Krista Duffey ’08, Katie Flynn ’06, Stephanie Ashworth ’07, Shannon Hasling ’06, Melissa Powers ’06, Allison Schuster ’06, Amy Madden ’07, Katie McClellan ’06 and Billy Flynn ’05; front, the bride and groom, Scott Savage ’07 and Adam Gill ’08. Not pictured is Tim McNamara ’06.

Jennifer Fleming ’93 married Patrick Rexroat ’97 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Racine, Wis., on Oct. 22, 2008. Alumni attending included, from left: Susan (Iverson ’92) De Angelis, Patty (McGlaughlin ’92) Pleuss, Maureen (Igel ’92) Shea, Karen Ford ’93, Jesse Pleuss ’93, Jennifer (Lala ’92) Mavilla, Maggie (Laseski ’92) Bebler, Maria (Navigato ’92) Saigh, Gretchen (Schwab ’93) Abrams, the groom and bride, James Fleming ’71, Tamara (Ficker ’92) Fleming, Adam Fleming ’94, Mike Shea ’91, Zac Colandrea ’97, and Shannon (Fleming ’97) Walsh. Not pictured are Sandy (Rexroat ’91) Fischer and Jeff Fischer ’91.

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FALL 2010

CLASS NOTES

Erin Hendricks ’08 and Rick McCoy ’08 were married Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009, at Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels in Winona.

Saint Mary’s alumni and staff attending included, from left: front, Allison Peterson ’07; Nicole Schroeder ’08; Ana Sontag ’08; the bride and groom; Janine (Stringham ’86) McIlheran; second row, Terry Zost ’79; Zach Schneider ’08; Christina Giunta ’08; Mackenzie Sondalle ’08; Lindsy (Nelson ’05, M’06) O’Shea; Rob Brewer ’09; Samantha Kirsch ’09; Moreen Bosch ’08; Lisa Mahler ’08; John Freeman ’08; Lindsay Dickson ’08; Mary Ann Gay Stringham ’76; Richard Stringham ’74; Peg (Stringham CST’80) McCoy; back, Chad Divine ’11; Peter Snell ’10; Jenn Lemkuhl ’06; Michael Charron ’79 (administration); Dr. Patrick O'Shea (faculty); Mike McCoy ’10; Bob Fisher ’97 M’06 (staff); Alex Downes Borowski ’08; Neil Olstad ’08; Jeremy Johnston ’09; Tony Freeman ’09; Michael Fye ’09; Gosia Paidosh ’09; Jakub Szymanski ’09; Matt Clementz ’08; Amanda Christman ’08; Bryan Atchison ’08; Guy Gehrman ’79; Lou McCoy ’79; and Skip Stringham ’71.

Dustin Kresen ’06 and Ashley Davis ’07 were married Oct. 10, 2009 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Stillwater, Minn.

SMU alumni attending included, from left: front, Grant Barthel ’07, Melanie Reuvers ’07, the groom and bride, Maddie Smith ’08, Tera Bollig ’07, Richard Foody ’06, Matthew Bilski ’07, Tim McCallister ’07; second row, Michelle (DeZelar ’07) Barthel, Rachel (Dolton ’06) Suera, Aubrey Hirsch ’08, Gabby (Buschmann ’06) Blake, DJ Prideau ’08, Abby Zimmer ’08, Sydney Kenning ’07, Alicia (Hartung ’07) Duerst, Sarah Zweber ’08, Chloe Tuseth ’08; third row, Frank Suera ’07, Ann Leeder ’07, Katie Boisjolie ’08, Mark Leeder ’05, Sean O’Brien ’07; back, Grant Bilski ’09, Andrew Pamperin ’06, Kevin Wriskey ’06, Steve Adams ’08, Andy Boisjolie ’06, Tyler Stevenson ’06, Dan Fahey ’06, Matt McKenna ’06, Sean Koch ’06, Tina Koechler ’08, Shannon Dinneen ’07, Brooke (Zachman ’07) Ploessl, Ashley Wendlandt ’08, Ryan Lynch ’08 and Tim Mallers ’06.

Renee Willkom ’04 and Sean Pearl were married Dec. 19, 2009 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Cadott, Wis. The couple currently resides in Evans Mills, N.Y. Saint Mary’s alumni attending included, from left: front, Sarah Fisher '04, Colleen Bourque '02, the bride and groom, Rosie Gwost '04, Keith Pieschek '04; second row, Sarah Zweber '08, Tera Bollig '07, Bridget McKee '04, Nicole (Kadlec ’04) Prax; third row, Rachel (Fink ’04) Whitney, Beth (Walch ’04) Taylor, Natalie Cossetta-Recker '04, Michael Brogan III '04; back, Keri Drake '05, Steve Recker '04, Anna Shields '04 and Chris Ames '04. Not pictured are Nick Taylor '04, Kyle Te Poel '04, and Nicole (Mensink ’06) Te Poel.

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CLASS NOTES

Danielle Robinson ’07 married Brian Rypka on Aug. 1, 2009. SMU alumni and current students in the wedding party included: Alex Genz ’09, Danielle’s cousin, top left; Justine Tocko ’12, Danielle’s sister, bottom left; Niki Robinson ’10, Danielle’s sister, second from left, bottom; and Shelby Hicks ’07, Danielle’s friend and roommate, bottom right.

The couple, who met through Danielle’s roommate, Mandi Grass ’07, currently lives in Owatonna, Minn.

Valerie Meschke ’09 to Thomas Zeman, Crosslake, Minn., on Dec. 19, 2009.

Alyssa Schlageter ’09 to Alex Gorgone ’09, Slatersville, R.I., on Dec. 19, 2009.

BIRTHS Melissa and Robert Rader ’87, Indian Head Park, Ill., a son, Donovan. He joins Harrison, 3.

Susanna and Najib Schlosstein ’92, Arcadia, Wis., a daughter, Chloe, on April 13, 2009.

Tom and Molly (McGowan ’94) Burns, Oak Park, Ill., a son, Martin McGowan Burns, on Jan. 26, 2010. He joins Jake, 4.

Chris and Jennifer (Czarnecki ’94) Deml, Ellendale, Minn., a daughter, Megan Rose, on March 1, 2010. She joins Elizabeth, Jesse and Laura.

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Jeff and Jennifer (Peel ’96) Greminger, Manchester, Mo., a son, Jack Ryan, on March 30, 2010. He joins Allison, 2.

Tom and Katie (Hoagberg ’98) Masog, Savage, Minn., a son, Lucas, on July 20, 2009. He joins Adam, 4.

Steve and Meredith (Baine ’96) Simon, Santa Ana, Calif., a son, Riley Steven, on March 7, 2009.

Michael and Katherine (Corcoran ’99) Cheramy, Evansville, Wis., a daughter, Natalie Elyse, on March 8, 2010.

She joins Vincent James, 3.

Cassie and Derek Erickson ’97, Woodbury, Minn., a son, Owen, on March 2, 2010. He joins Skylar.

Pete ’97 and Rachell (Maras ’96) Horbenko, Chicago, a daughter, Violet Anna-Maria, on Feb. 16, 2010. She joins Jack, 4.

Rich and Karen (Padden ’97) Kress, Marlboro, N.J., a daughter, Shannon Marcella, on March 27, 2010. She joins Ryan, 2.

Janna and Dr. Trent Vorlicek ’97, North Mankato, Minn., a daughter, Ayla Grace, on March 24, 2010.

Justin and Tracy (Trowbridge ’95) Hale, Trempealeau, Wis., a daughter, Madeline Elizabeth, on March 16, 2010. She joins Mason, 4.

Jay and Tess (VanDeusen ’98) Barry, Hutchinson, Minn., a daughter, Reese Alexandra, on Oct. 22, 2009.

Russ ’96 and Heather (Kjome ’97) Buege, Lewiston, Minn., a daughter, Jocelyn Faith, on June 7, 2010. She joins Natalie, 3.

Ross and Carrie (Calkins ’98) Felten, Lombard, Ill., a daughter, Nora Irene, on March 22, 2010.

SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

On Nov. 14, 2009, Catherine Brochu ’99 married Joel Glidden in Chicago. SMU alums in attendance included, from left: front, Dan Goodnature ’00, Amy (La Margo ’00) Goodnature, the bride, Stacey (Simenson ’00) Anderson, Corey Anderson ’99; back, Mike Engstrom ’00, Holly (Steenberg ’99) Engstrom, Teresa Miller ’00, Joe Flanigan ’01, Katy Radek ’02 and Joe Bedor ’02.

Shane and Carrie (Schmidt ’99) Didur, Coon Rapids, Minn., a son, Trevin Michael, on March 3, 2010. He joins Lauren, 3.

Bjorn and Mary (Finn ’99) Erickson, Rogers, Minn., a son, Frederick Finn, on Jan. 20, 2010.

Davis and Heather (O’Dea ’99) Grudt, Lino Lakes, Minn., a daughter, Avery Lily, on Feb. 20, 2010.

James ’99 and Gina (Mandeville ’99) Karnick, Wheaton, Ill., a daughter, Giuliana Marie, on April 1, 2010. She joins Jimmy, 6, and Anthony, 4.

Jesse and Molly (Nei ’00) Chapin, Germany, a son, Andrew Robert, on Sept. 9, 2008, and a daughter, Emma Grace, on Feb. 12, 2010.

Jason and Kara (Wicklander ’00) Hutson, Warrenville, Ill., a son, Dillon Chase, on March 18, 2010.

Dave ’00 and Jessalin (Schute ’04) Karsnia, Eagan, Minn., a son, Easton, on June 11, 2010.

Amy and Sam Klimoski ’00 M’01, St. Paul, Minn., a son, Leo James, on Oct. 8, 2009.

Steve and Mary (Schmolke ’01) Bayer, Hoffman Estates, Ill., a daughter, Camille Elizabeth, on Nov. 20, 2009.

Bryan ’01 and Angie (DiPinto ’02) Amburn, Erie, Pa., a daughter, Rebekah Marie, on Sept. 14, 2009. She joins Brandon, 7; Veronica, 4; and Alanna, 3.

Joel and Dr. Angela (Corfits ’99) Timm, Peoria, Ill., a son, Sebastian. He joins Alexander, 2.

Tim and Katherine (Bedtke ’01) Carroll, Otsego, Minn., a daughter, Paige Cecilia, on Jan. 31, 2010.

Jason and Laura (Kronlage ’00) Besler, Bloomington, Minn., a daughter, Samantha Jane, on Jan. 27, 2010.

Matthew and Diane (Wood ’01) Gordon, Salt Lake City, Utah, a son, Gentry, in February 2010.

FALL 2010

CLASS NOTES Peter and Dr. Michelle (Harrison ’01) Hammond, Castletroy, Limerick, Ireland, a daughter, Clara Lilly, on May 12, 2010.

Tim ’01 and Ashley (Dingels ’05) Gossen, Lewiston, Minn., a son, Damian John, on Dec.13, 2009.

Kirsten and Jordan Herzog ’01 M’06, Blaine, Minn., a son, Samuel Jordan, on June 25, 2009.

John ’01 and Emilee (Conley ’03) Scheid, Rochester, Minn., a son, Stephen Andrew, on March 4, 2010.

Ryan and Dr. Abby (Ludwig ’02) DeBonis, North Pole, Alaska, a son, Kade Cole, on April 28, 2010.

John ’03 and Brooke (Meschke ’03) Holterhaus, Blaine, Minn., a daughter, Taylor Hope, on April 22, 2010.

Lee and Katie (Peterson ’03) Krueger, Oronoco, Minn., a daughter, Evelyn Lee, on Feb. 25, 2010. She joins Cecelia, 2.

Sara Pueringer ’03, Clearwater, Minn., a daughter, Aubrey, in February 2010.

Dave and Emily (Lambaere ’04 M’06) Hovland, Austin, Minn., a son, Jude Lambaere Hovland, on March 16, 2010. He joins Jonas, 2.

Michael ’04 and Sara (Goodnature ’04) Lackey, Highland Ranch, Colo., a daughter, Olivia Ann, on Sept. 25, 2009.

Kevin and Laura (Lane ’04) Melby, Richland Center, Wis., a son, Andrew Harrison, on Feb. 10, 2010.

Isaac and Martha (Shively ’04) Ray, Isle, Minn., a son, Joseph Scott, on Nov. 6, 2009.

Bridget and Russell Swanson ’04, River Falls, Wis., a daughter, Adeline Florence, on Feb. 1, 2010.

Kurt and Abigail (Beissel ’05) Angerman, Hastings, Minn., a daughter, Hannah Verna, on Feb. 23, 2010.

CORRECTION: Brad and Julia (Pagelkopf ’02) Bernardi, Galesburg, Ill., had their first child, a son, Jack Arthur, in June 2009.

Brian and Amy (Burns ’02) Flug, Chippewa Falls, Wis., a son, Dawson James, on May 13, 2010.

Ryan and Carrie (Beckenbach ’02) Mach, Durham, N.C., a son, Mason Ryan, on Feb. 3, 2010.

Jennifer and Brian Barwig ’03, Shawnee, Kans., a daughter, Addison Marie, on Mother’s Day, May 9, 2010.

Brydie and Austin DeMuth ’03, Marshall, Minn., a daughter, Peyton Joy, on Jan. 24, 2010.

J.J. and April (Johnson ’06) Kirby, South St. Paul, Minn., a daughter, Kieran, on Oct. 9, 2009.

CORRECTION: Craig ’02 and Lisa (Eichsteadt ’01) Steger, Decorah, Iowa, a son, Joshua Paul, on July 20, 2009. He joins Andrew, 6; Adrianne, 4; and Jacob, 3.

DEATHS Dr. James L. Lynch Jr. ’40, San Marcos, Calif., on Aug. 16, 2007.

Stanley R. Smith ’41, McLean, Va., on Feb. 21, 2010.

Michael J. Downey ’50, Grand Blanc, Mich., on Dec. 27. 2009.

Brian S. Orloske ’91, Houlton, Wis., on March 7, 2010.

Father Robert A. Kulas ’50, Edina, Minn., on May 10, 2010.

Faculty/Staff

Morgan J. Fitzgerald ’52, Mission, Texas, on June 5, 2010.

William G. Heer ’53, Edina, Minn., on April 26, 2010.

Michael A. Davies Jr. ’54, Orland Park, Ill., on July 18, 2010.

Jack A. Gernes ’54, Chaska, Minn., on Feb. 19, 2010.

John T. Yoder III ’56, Bradenton, Fla., Feb. 4, 2010.

Thomas J. Workman ’56, Mesa, Ariz., on Jan. 6, 2010.

Neil C. Pelley ’58, Oro Valley, Ariz., on Nov. 12, 2008.

John M. Cronin’59, Chicago, in June 2010.

Eugene E. Dunagan ’59, Plainview, Minn., on Jan. 30, 2010.

Marion G. Novo Gradac ’60, Fairfax, Mo., on Sept. 6, 2009.

Earl S. Harrington ’60, Vernon Hills, Ill., on July 6, 2003.

Roy A. Schneider ’61, Tupelo, Miss., on June 26, 2010.

James J. Miller ’62, Hahanna, Ohio, on Dec. 4, 2009.

Dr. Glenn A. Neiner ’62, Exton, Pa., on March 14, 2009.

Carroll L. Baruth ’63, Stewartville, Minn., on Nov. 11, 2009.

Rev. Msgr. Roger A. Swenson ’66, Metairie, La., on March 9, 2010.

Dr. Abel Castrellon ’67, David, Chiriqui, Panama, in April 2010.

James M. O’Day ’74, Brisbane, Calif., on July 24, 2010.

Dr. Gary M. Bunger ’76, Quincy, Ill., on July 1, 2020.

Charles E. ‘Chuck’ Williams ’42, Winona, on March 13, 2010.

Joseph P. Morrissey ’77, Boise, Idaho, on July 7, 2010.

Thomas L. Cramsie ’43, Orland Park, Ill., on Jan. 20, 2010.

Louise (Hopkins ’87) Carter, Bartlett, Ill., in April 2010.

Don L. Kreofsky, Spring Valley, Minn., former photography and studio arts professor, passed away on July 20, 2010.

SYMPATHY TO John “Jack” Malloy ’46 and John Malloy ’73, on the death of their wife and mother, Barbara Malloy, on Jan. 26, 2010.

Joseph Lafond ’51, Bill ’85 and Melissa (Kunert ’85) Lafond, Terry (Lafond ’88) Pawicki, and Pat Lafond ’12, on the death of their brother, father, father-in-law, and grandfather, William Lafond, on July 6, 2010.

Dr. Edward Bermes ’54, Mark ’83 and Jeanine (Baldwin ’83) Bermes, on the death of their wife, mother and mother-inlaw, Patricia Bermes, on June 25, 2009.

Don Gancer ’55, on the death of his son, John Gancer, on Feb. 28, 2010.

Edward Bohrer ’57, on the death of his daughter, Barbara Bohrer M’93, on June 7, 2009.

John Ehlert ’67, on the death of his mother, Helen Ehlert, on Aug. 3, 2010.

Paul Tushner ’69, on the death of his mother, Cecile Tushner, on June 23, 2010.

Bill Kronschnable ’71, Rita (Kronschnable ’77) Spiess, Jane (Kronschnable ’78) Hanson, Mike ’84 and Ellen (Kronschnable ’84) Kelly, Paul Kronschnable ’86 and Ted Kronschnable ’89, on the death of their mother, Betty Kronschnable, in July 2010.

William F. ’71 and Mary (Turcin CST’72) Van Meter, on the death of their mother-in-law and mother, Lorraine Turcin, on June 30, 2010.

Laura Folk ’72, on the death of her mother, Lorna Folk, on Sept.

30, 2009.

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CLASS NOTES Kathy (Mescher ’74) Casey, on the death of her mother, Peggy Mescher, on March 11, 2010.

Timothy Bauer ’76, Susan (Bauer ’81) Toenjes, and Andy Bauer ’12, on the death of their father and grandfather, William Bauer, in March 2010.

Karen Oaster ’77, on the death of her mother, Mary Oaster, on March 29, 2010.

Barbara (Carlson ’84) Gorghuber, on the death of her mother, Jeanette Carlson, on Jan. 20, 2010.

Thomas Williams ’84 and Mary Williams Bambenek M’93 on the death of their father, Charles “Chuck” Williams ’42, on March 13, 2010.

father and father-in-law, Jim McGrath, in January 2010.

Brenda Weisenberger ’92 and Becky Weisenberger ’92, on the death of their father, Joseph Weisenberger, on April 2, 2010.

Michele Mahoney ’94, on the death of her brother, Daniel Mahoney, on Jan. 23, 2010.

Amy (Unze ’97) Zwart and Elizabeth (Wiske ’97) Unze, on the death of their father and father-in-law, Sylvester Unze, on May 29, 2010.

Tessia (Gardner ’01) Melvin, on the death of her father, Ray Gardner, on March 26, 2010.

Janie and Joseph Lentino ’03, on the death of their twins, Joseph Hugh and Jack Alexander, on May 30, 2010.

Kevin McGrath ’85, on the death of his mother, Darlene McGrath, on May 3, 2010.

Megan Radke ’05, on the death of her mother, Roberta Radke, on July 26, 2010.

Dan Gernes ’88, on the death of his father, Jack Gernes ’54, on Feb. 19, 2010.

Susan Birkenheier ’07, on the death of her father, Robert Birkenheier, on May 20, 2009.

Mary (McCamley ’89) Yazvec, on the death of her father, Peter McCamley, on March 28, 2010.

Michael Sweeney ’09, on the death of his father, Timothy Sweeney, in August 2010.

Michael McGrath ’90 and Bill ’02 and Katie (McGrath ’01) Guinane, on the death of their

Grady Erickson ’11, on the death of his father, David Erickson, on July 28, 2010.≠

Saint Mary’s loses alum, lifelong educator Brother Regis (Lucian Regis) Morgan, FSC '47, died Sept. 5, 2010, in Bolingbrook, Ill. He was 87. Brother Regis earned a B.S. degree from Saint Mary's in 1945 and taught at Saint Mary's between 1952 and 1957. Memorials may be made to Saint Mary's University, 700 Terrace Heights, Winona, MN 55987 or to the De La Salle Christian Brothers Retirement Fund, 7650 S. County Line Rd., Burr Ridge, IL., 60527.≠

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SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

Community says goodbye to voice of Winona sports Countless Winonans will remember Charles “Chuck” Williams ’42 as the familiar friendly voice whose fast-paced play-by-plays illustrated Winona sports through the airwaves for 44 years.

Williams, 89, died March 13, 2010 — leaving behind a loving family and a community of fans who will remember him for his faith, his tremendous talent and his gentle kindness, in addition to his fervent love of sports.

Williams was notorious for showing an impartial enthusiasm for all sports at all levels — high school, college Charles “Chuck” Williams ’42 or amateur. His love for all sports, and the players, rang clear through every inning, every quarter, every down, every game, and every point for an estimated 4,000 to 4,500 athletic events throughout his sportscasting career (as well as more than 30,000 “Mike Side of Sports” radio programs).

Following his graduation in 1942 from Saint Mary’s, Williams’ career started out in print; he worked briefly for the local paper, the Winona Republican Herald, but his heart was set on radio. He was soon hired at local station KWNO as a staff announcer and disc jockey. His early easylistening music talk show, titled “Willie’s Wax Works” was a hometown favorite during the 1940s.

After the invasion of Pearl Harbor, he joined the military and became a member of the Army Signal Corps and Armed Services Radio while stationed in the Pacific Theatre.

Williams returned to Winona in 1947 and began sportscasting, also serving as the station’s general manager from 1961 to 1985 and retiring from the station in 1986 — although never retiring from his love of sports. He continued to use his talents in the community throughout his retirement.

In 1986, local sports fans honored him with “Chuck Williams Recognition Night.” He was also inducted into three schools’ Hall of Fames, including Saint Mary’s in 1987.

Williams famously ended each of his broadcasts with “That’s it from here. Good night, all. Good night, Claire.”

— a signature signoff to one of his favorite listeners, his wife of 62 years. Claire worked for many years in the SMU Registrar’s office.

He also leaves behind three daughters, Mary Bambenek M’93, coordinator for SMU’s Winona graduate and professional programs; Patricia Malay; and Elizabeth Williams; and a son, Tom Williams ’84.≠

FALL 2010

Join the Lasallian Legacy Society

Have you heard about “Gifts-Plus”?

When is a gift to Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota more than just a gift? It’s when one donation delivers: an immediate tax deduction to you,

plus lifetime income for you and a loved one,

plus more generous support for Saint Mary’s than you’ve been able to provide before!

Gifts-plus come in several formats, including popular Charitable Gift Annuities, Deferred Gift Annuities and Charitable Remainder Trusts. All of them offer you financial rewards that also stretch your ability to help us and achieve your philanthropic goals.

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CONTACT

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www.smumn.edu/plannedgiving Not intended as legal, tax, or investment advice.

Copyright © 2010, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. All Rights Reserved.

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I am Saint Mary’s Mass Communications associate professor loves teaching, no joke!

It’s one of the great constants in life. Dean Beckman can always be counted on to have a corny joke of the day, sometimes several, much to the enjoyment (or chagrin) of his students.

But even Beckman has an off day.

On this day, after having to wait in line for an unbearably long period of time at the eye doctor, he didn’t have the proper amount of time to prepare a witty pun.

Undoubtedly, he’ll make up for it later.

Beckman admits the comment he gets most often from former students is that they either miss, or don’t miss, his jokes. “But they remember them,” he said, smiling.

That’s one thing the associate professor of Mass Communication hopes he conveys to his students — to take time to laugh. “Life is short and they need to have fun,” he said. “A career in communication should be fun, and you don’t have to take life seriously all the time.”

He also hopes mass communication students leave Saint Mary’s with a wellrounded education, prepared to take on a variety of career paths that may revolve around mass communication.

“I think the ability to do many things well is important,” he said. “I emphasize to my students that they’ll switch jobs and companies, and more than likely careers in life, as I did. What I really want to prepare them for is to be well rounded in many areas, even in areas they don’t like to do. In those areas, they need to at least appreciate the knowledge and work and skills that it takes to do that job well, and that shows in our curriculum too.”

Beckman teaches what he knows.

Although his career has focused around communications, it’s taken several different paths, beginning with radio broadcasting.

His career in radio began at a station in his hometown of Fort Dodge, Iowa. In

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SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

ABOVE: Dean Beckman and Donny Nadeau ’85 host a cable show, The Cardinal’s Nest, that is devoted to SMU sports news. BELOW: Beckman leads the PR/Business Club on a field trip.

college, he began working at the Winona station KWNO part-time. After graduate school, he took a full-time position back at KWNO in sports and news.

But after adjunct teaching at SMU and Winona State University, Beckman decided he also enjoyed teaching.

“Being a practitioner made me happy,” he said, “But after I adjuncttaught, I thought, ‘Boy, I really like this,’ ” he said.

He went full-time at Saint Mary’s in fall 2001 and currently teaches Intro to Mass Communication, Reporting 1, Case Studies in PR, PR Research, and PR Writing.

But Beckman also knows that what students do outside of the classroom can only enhance what they learn in class. “In

my opinion, what will separate the students is their motivation to do outsideof-the classroom experiences,” he said.

“Eventually everyone will have a degree; it’s what they do outside of the classroom that will set them apart, so I try to lead by example. I understand the importance of it because I did it.”

Beckman’s life outside of the classroom continues to revolve around students.

He, along with Sports Information Director Donny Nadeau ’85, established webcasting (play-by-plays over the internet) of all the home SMU varsity games. Beckman sometimes does the playby-plays; other times, he finds a student to broadcast the games, and helps facilitate.

FALL 2010

He and Nadeau also pair up for the local cable station HBC broadcast of “The Cardinal’s Nest” — a half-hour weekly sports program devoted to SMU sports news. The segment also sometimes includes other campus events and interviews with coaches and students.

He can also be seen on HBC’s “Sports Authority” weekly sports-talk show.

“What I love about my life now is that I get to do this (teaching), which is what I love more than anything else in this world, but I also get to stay active with what I loved about broadcasting, which was sports, without the really early mornings,” Beckman said. “I’ve got the best of both worlds.

“In a round-about way, it benefits students by helping them get internships,

which gives them different media opportunities and perspectives that they can’t get here, TV and broadcasting opportunities.”

Beckman is also faculty-co-advisor to the PR/Business Club, one of the largest, most active clubs on campus. The group takes field trips, hosts speakers and assists campus organizations with publicity.

Typically, he said, the group travels twice a year to the Twin Cities to connect with alums in communication-related businesses.

He’s also involved with Crimestoppers and chairs the board of education for the Winona Area Catholic Schools.

In recognition of his involvement, his consistent excellence in preparation of his courses, in communication and delivery of

course material, and in fairness in dealing with students, he received the Brother H. Charles Severin Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2009.

The corny jokes are just a bonus.

“I would hope that alumni know that I respected them when they were students,” Beckman said. “The most rewarding part (of my job) is hearing from alumni, whether it’s a couple of months or several years after they graduate, and whether it’s to give them a reference or an invitation to their wedding. That they’re thinking of you and contact you mean they appreciate you and value the time they spent with you. Because that’s who we’re doing this for.”≠

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So, what’s new with you?

Alumni — send us your news! Saint Mary’s Magazine welcomes contributions to the Alumni Class Notes section. Use this form to fax or mail in your personal and professional news items.

Photos, news clippings, etc., are also welcome, as well as tips about fellow alums who might make good feature story subjects.

• SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: Alumni Class Notes are printed in the Saint Mary’s Magazine so that Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Winona campus alumni can share news of significant events in their lives. We welcome items about personal and professional achievements, as well as life milestones such as weddings, births, adoptions and deaths. We do not print news of engagements or pregnancies. We also do not print notices of non-legal commitment ceremonies. Photos and news clippings are welcome, but cannot be returned.

• MINIMUM SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS: Your legal name, class year and email address; spouse’s legal name, class year and email address (if applicable); home address; and home phone number. Other useful information includes your business title, company name, address, phone number and e-mail address.

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Class year

E-mail Spouse’s Name

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E-mail Address City, State, Zip Home phone Business name Business address

calendar of events NOVEMBER 24-29 Thanksgiving Recess 30 Classes Resume DECEMBER 16 Study Day 17-18 Final Examinations 20-21 Final Examinations Dec. 22 – Jan. 16 Christmas Recess JANUARY 17 Semester II classes begin MARCH 5-13 14 APRIL 7 20

Spring Recess Classes Resume

21-25 26

Founder’s Day Senior Academic Honors Banquet Easter Recess Classes Resume

MAY 5 6-7 9-10 14

Study Day Final Examinations Final Examinations Commencement

City, State, Zip Business phone Business fax Your title

Years in this position

SPORTS

What’s new?

www.saintmaryssports.com

Check here if your son or daughter would like to receive SMU admission materials.

A representative will contact you for more details.

Send to: Saint Mary’s University 700 Terrace Heights #21 Winona, MN 55987-1399 Fax: (507) 457-6967 Contact us online: www.smumn.edu/classnotes E-mail: alumni@smumn.edu

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SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

2010-2011 THEATRE www.pagetheatre.org

FALL 2010

O U R H I S T O RY

lookingback

The Saint Mary’s campus radio station has changed a lot through the decades. And hundreds of students have graced its airwaves, playing the hip tunes of the day.

The bottom picture, shown in a 1957 yearbook, shows Bill Berg ’59. The cutline reads, “St. Mary’s Cokey Choate prepares to make small tracks on wax.”

By summer of 1985, these unidentified students above were still queuing up records, with iPods still just a figment of someone’s imagination.

Anyone with more — or more accurate — information about this photo is welcome to contact Saint Mary’s Magazine editor, Deb Nahrgang. Mail comments to: Saint Mary’s Magazine, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights #36, Winona, MN 55987. Or, send e-mail to: dnahrgan@smumn.edu.≠

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Winona, MN Permit 99 WINONA CAMPUS 700 Terrace Heights #21 Winona, MN 55987-1399 USA

Q:

AS WE NEAR OUR CENTENNIAL IN 2012, WHAT DO YOU FEEL HAVE BEEN SAINT MARY’S GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THE PAST CENTURY? Submit your answers online: smumn.edu/magquestion.

We’ll publish the results in the next magazine and online.

the

y o j n E s d n u o S & s t h g i S e Season! of th Come back to campus to see & hear the talents of SMU students

The Nutcracker Dec. 2-4, 6:30 pm • Dec. 5, 3 pm Tammy Schmidt, artistic director

SMU Chamber Ensembles Saturday, Dec. 4, 3 pm Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, director

SMU Jazz Ensemble Friday, Dec. 10, 7:30 pm Dr. John Paulson, director

SMU Choirs “Lessons & Carols Concert” Saturday, Dec. 11, 7:30 pm Dr. Patrick O’Shea, director Lindsy O’Shea, director • Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office (507) 457-1715 or go online to www.pagetheatre.org.