Saint Mary's Magazine

John “J.J.” Williams ’00 takes gaming to a new level.

SPRING 2014 – VOLUME 47, NUMBER 2

Contents 1

FROM THE EDITOR

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NEWS AND VIEWS… UNDERGRAD UPDATES, SGPP POSTINGS, ALL-UNIVERSITY NEWS

13

TRUSTEE PROFILE

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BROTHER PAULOS

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BROTHER LOUIS BUILDING DEDICATION

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FULFILLING DREAMS FULLY ONLINE

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ALUMNI FIELDS OF DREAMS

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STUDENT INTERNSHIPS

34

2014 RETIREES

38

ALUMNI NEWS

47

SPORTS NEWS

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CLASS NOTES

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I AM SAINT MARY’S

ON THE COVER J.J. Williams ’00 is working as a lead designer for Disney and owns his own independent game development company, 12 Gauge Studio.

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR MARKETING & COMMUNICATION Nick Lemmer ’94 VICE PRESIDENT, DEVELOPMENT Audrey Kintzi, MS, ACFRE EDITOR Deb Nahrgang Phone: (507) 457-6966 Fax: (507) 457-6967 dnahrgan@smumn.edu CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alex Conover ’11 Robert Fisher ’97, M’06 Donny Nadeau ’85 Deb Nahrgang PHOTOGRAPHERS Rick Busch Bob Conover Chris Ebert Andrew Link Deb Nahrgang Andrew Nyhus Tom Roster Cover photo courtesy Lauren Williams, Lauren Michelle Studios GRAPHIC DESIGN Maria Beyerstedt Denise Hamernik PRODUCTION Pat Beech Bob Conover Kenzie Corrow ’14 Supreme Graphics 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 1,300 students are enrolled in the residential undergraduate College at the Winona campus, established in 1912. More than 4,300 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.

CAMPUS RESOURCES Website www.smumn.edu Alumni AssociAtion www.mysmumn.org • Winona undergraduate Alumni (507) 457-1499 Fax: (507) 457-6697 Toll-free: (800) 635-5987, Ext. 1499 alumni@smumn.edu • schools of Graduate & Professional Programs Alumni (612) 728-5202 Fax: (612) 728-5167 Toll-free: (866) 437-2788 sgppalumni@smumn.edu Athletic DePArtment (507) 457-1579 dnadeau@smumn.edu www.saintmaryssports.com DeveloPment (507) 457-6647 Fax: (507) 457-6697 giving@smumn.edu www.supportsmu.org PerformAnce center box office (507) 457-1715 tickets@smumn.edu www.pagetheatre.org mArketinG & communicAtion (507) 457-1497 spopp@smumn.edu www.smumn.edu/news 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

Saint Mary’s greatest pride is success of students, alumni Nothing gets a reaction like Saint Mary’s!

When I wear one of my many custom-made red SMU shirts, regardless of the town — or even state — I’m in, someone eventually recognizes the name and exclaims, “SAINT MARY’S!” When we drive the Saint Mary’s float in the local parade routes, people exuberantly shout out “SAINT MARY’S” — some even rush the float to take a picture with Big Red the mascot or to grab a coveted SMU giveaway.

And nothing will warm a marketing person’s heart more than hearing someone singing the praises of Saint Mary’s, particularly when they talk about how Saint Mary’s helped them get where they are today.

And these days, there are a lot of reasons for our name to be touted, shouted and sung. Our women’s basketball team, with an MIAC conference title and 24-4 record, had everyone talking. Accolades from our successful Centennial celebrations are still being given. And Saint Mary’s is extending its reach ever further as it builds upon its existing strength in the sciences. We are moving forward under the guidelines set forth by Strategic Plan 2017 by expanding our online eduDeb nahrgang cation, by executing a vision for leadership development, by Saint Mary’s creating a vibrant campus, by perpetuating the Lasallian Magazine editor Catholic heritage …. And more!

Our students and our alumni also continue to make Saint Mary’s a well-known entity. Can there be any bigger pride for an alma mater than the success of its students and alumni?

This magazine is full of pride: from stories of our current students, completing innovative and exciting internships that effectively position them for bright careers, to stories about our young alumni who have found great joy, success and satisfaction in their fields. Our first fully-online graduate students commenced this past January. These are the stories that are worth shouting about.

And that’s just what we plan to do as we undergo a major branding initiative. Part of the process has been interviewing students, staff, faculty and alumni about what it means to be Saint Mary’s. What feelings are evoked? What memories come to mind?

What is Saint Mary’s known for?

The answers aren’t surprising. Undergraduates tout the beautiful campus, the caring faculty, the abundance of opportunities, and the hands-on learning they experienced. Graduate students tout the ease and convenience of classes, the camaraderie that is formed with cohorts, and the benefit of learning from working professionals in their fields.

I’m happy to say that you’ll be seeing a lot more of Saint Mary’s. We hope you’ll join us in sharing the Saint Mary’s story. There are so many ways you can help promote SMU, whether it’s proudly affixing your degree to your office wall, wearing SMU apparel around your hometown, assisting with advancement efforts, referring a potential student, or sharing your successes here in the magazine and with the alumni office.

You are what makes SMU so special!≠

Job oPPortunities www.smumn.edu/jobs

WWW.SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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News and Views A pilgrimage to the Holy Land Over the holiday break, a group of seven Saint Mary’s students walked in Jesus’ footsteps. The group visited the Holy Land on a pilgrimage in collaboration with Lewis University. The two Lasallian universities organized the journey so that students could engage in spiritual development, academic discourse and interfaith dialogue in the home of the three Abrahamic religions.

Janie Maki ’15, a psychology and marketing major from Roseville, Minn., said she chose to go on the trip because she wanted to immerse herself in a different culture and strengthen her faith by visiting the places where Jesus was born, taught and died.

“We were able to see and learn so much in 10 days,” she said. “My favorite part was driving north to Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee. It was amazing to visit the places where Jesus started his ministry.

We went on a beautiful boat ride on the Sea of Galilee where Jesus called his first disciples. We had Mass in German where Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish. We read the Beatitudes on the Mount of the Beatitudes, and we passed through Cana where Jesus performed his first miracle.”

In the evenings, the students were joined by speakers from various political and religious organizations to engage in dialogue around the contemporary conflicts in the region of the West Bank, Gaza and Israel. The Saint Mary’s students also had the opportunity to network and talk with students from Bethlehem University who traveled with the group for several days. They finished their trip by visiting the old city of Jaffa and exploring the modern city of Tel Aviv.

“I learned so much during the trip about the Palestinian and Israeli conflict,” Maki said. “We not only had multiple speakers about the conflict, but immediately we were immersed in it. We traveled with students and faculty from our sister Lasallian school, Bethlehem University, and we were able to hear their personal stories and really learn about the social injustices that they face every day.

“We met Palestinian women working with Catholic Relief Services running their own businesses in order to provide for their families,” Maki recounted. “We also walked through a crowded refugee camp, and we passed through multiple checkpoints, often having to leave our new Palestinian friends behind simply because they were from Palestine.”≠ Jani maki ’15 (in bethlehem) and a group of six other smu students, along with two staff, visited the holy land during the christmas break.

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SPRING 2014

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Letters Many alumni and their family recognized the good-looking young men featured in the most recent “Looking Back” section.

With one slight discrepancy, I’m happy to see these men have been identified, as has the location of the photo. Malachy O’Gorman ’48 informed us that photo was taken in one of the rooms in The Barracks, formerly located next to Heffron Hall.

Thanks to everyone who responded!

Good evening, I'm delighted to recognize the four students pictured on the inside back cover of the recent Saint Mary’s University publication.

The one student facing the camera is my late husband, Charles Robert McCall ’49. The student holding the pencil is my late brother-in-law, Jack McCall ’50. Between the brothers stands Jack Feeley ’49, and the last student reading Aristotle is George Greene ’48.

– Ella (Connelly CST’49) McCall

*Sal Ortenzo ’49 believes the gentleman on the right to be Paul Bentley ’49.≠

New study abroad opportunities offered

Lighting enhances campus ski trails

New faculty-led study abroad programs are pairing various academic areas of study with memorable international experiences for undergraduate students.

Participating students study a specific disciplinary focus and country/region during spring semester within a threecredit course, and then travel with a faculty member for roughly two weeks shortly after commencement.

Preston Lawing of the Department of Art and Design led a group of 14 students to Italy last spring as part of his Introduction to Italy: History, Art and Culture course.

This spring, 12 students are studying “Literature on Location,” led by Dr. Brooke Lenz, associate professor of English. Together they will explore English culture and history through an examination of literature and a literary tour to sites in England, including London, Oxford, Glastonbury and Bath.

Participants will visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum and the Jane Austen Center and take a literary walking tour of Oxford. Dr. Carolyn Ayers, associate professor of English, is also accompanying the students.

Next spring Saint Mary’s hopes to conduct short-term study abroad experiences in other disciplines, including business and Spanish. The short-term programs are being developed by faculty members and departments in collaboration with the Study Abroad Office.

These short-term experiences are ideal for students who may not be able to spend a full semester abroad because of time or cost considerations, and they offer the advantage of not interfering with athletics or summer commitments.≠

The network of trails that run through the bluffs surrounding Saint Mary’s Winona campus are already known as a skier’s paradise.

Now, thanks to collaboration between Saint Mary’s and the Winona Ski Club, the addition of lighting has further enhanced the trail system.

This fall, a system of 60 LED lights was added along a 2.5 kilometer loop behind Saint Yon’s Hall, making the trails useable — and safer — after dark, benefitting the Saint Mary’s community, local high school and elementary skiers, and the Winona community as a whole.

The ski club raised $25,000 for the lights, asking for $1,000 donations for each of the 25 poles added. Saint Mary’s is, in turn, responsible for maintenance of the trails and utility costs.

In recent years, the partnership has also helped to bring about snow-making equipment, as well as the Brother Jerome Rademacher Nordic Ski Center in Brother Leopold Hall.

Saint Mary’s trails are some of the best in southern Minnesota. The trails loop for 14.5 kilometers through the bluffs that surround the campus, making them quite challenging, as well as picturesque.

“We’re grateful for the continued investment the Winona Ski Club is making in our trails,” said Chris Kendall ’79, M’95, vice president for student life. “We are glad to be able to open up these trails to the community. Now, with the addition of these lights, even more people will be able to enjoy this resource.

Saint Mary’s has become a well-known regional destination for beginning and professional skiers alike, and that’s an asset to this university, as well as to the vitality of the local economy.”≠

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.

WWW.SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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Approximately 575 people came to listen to the Johnny holm band during the taylor richmond benefit Dance march 15.

this year's beneficiary Jason richter m’09 with his wife, tina, and their three sons, Jackson, carter and Gus.

Taylor Richmond benefit raises $15,000 for Jason Richter More than 575 people attended Saint Mary’s 14th annual Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance on March 15.

The dance and a silent auction raised more than $15,000 for this year’s beneficiary Jason Richter M’09, who worked at Saint Mary’s from 1998 to 2010 in Student Activities and was once responsible for overseeing this same benefit event. Richter, who currently lives in Davenport, Iowa, is formerly of Rollingstone, where he served with the volunteer fire department and was an active community member.

Prior to being diagnosed with multiple myeloma last summer, Richter had pain in his lower back that turned out to be a mass. This is a disease that is more commonly found in people around the age of 60; because of his young age, he has responded well to treatments. He has undergone 10 radiation sessions, as well as recent bone and stem cell transplants. The Richter family lives an hour away from the hospital Jason is receiving treatment at in Iowa City.

nikki richmond touches the audience by speaking about her son taylor, the benefit’s namesake, who passed away this past fall.

Although now in remission, Richter is still undergoing chemotherapy treatments. This year’s proceeds will assist his family, which includes three young sons, with their medical expenses and travel costs.

The benefit has become an annual student tradition since its start in 2001 in honor of Taylor Richmond, son of SMU staff member Nikki Richmond and Nick Richmond. Each year this event benefits someone in need who has ties to the SMU community. Although Taylor passed away this past October, his memory lives on at Saint Mary’s.

Donations are still being accepted; send checks — payable to the Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance — to Lance Thompson, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights #1528, Winona, MN 55987.≠

Celebration of Scholarship The Celebration of Scholarship, Saint Mary’s annual celebration highlighting the accomplishments of undergraduate students across all academic disciplines, was held April 11. More than 100 presentations were made by more than 130 students including: Danielle Pues and Amanda Lindholm; Katie Stein; and Brian Thesenvitz, Gabriel Thiel, Nicholas Gualano, and Anastasia “Tess” Willard.≠

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SPRING 2014

u n D e r G r A D u P D At e s saint mary’s students including mary samson ott ’15 mixed with students during a trip to southern india.

(Photo by nicky becher ’15.)

SOUL trip to India gives students global perspective Eight undergraduate students and Dr. Jeanne Minnerath (Department of Biology) gained new global perspective and insights into the international Lasallian world on a SOUL mission trip to India over the Christmas break. SOUL – Serving Others United in Love – is a campus ministry program that offers students opportunities to learn, serve, reflect and get to know new places and diverse communities.

One of the underlying goals of the India trip was to ignite a call for service leadership in participants as they began to understand the experience of the poor and transform compassion into appropriate social action.

One student, Elizabeth Arnold ’14, shares her memories of the trip.

“We journeyed halfway around the world (over 50 hours one way!) to get to a small, rural orphanage in southern India. St. Joseph’s Boys’ Village is currently the home to 65 boys, ages 5-15, who complete their education in a nearby school. The Christian Brothers, who operate the village, teach (by word and action) the ideals of Saint John Baptist de La Salle in their service to the poor and compassion for the children. Despite coming from different class, caste and religious backgrounds, the boys work together to accomplish daily tasks and lead a fun but structured life.

“Each morning they rose at 5:45 a.m. to brush their teeth, clean the village, bathe, study, eat breakfast, and get ready for school.

“Much later, the SMU team arose to begin their day.

While the boys were away at school, the Saint Mary’s crew

was back in the village painting buildings (a task the orphanage needs done once every three years by regulation), and learning a bit more about what it takes to run an orphanage.

We toured the coconut farm, which provides much of the income keeping the organization afloat when donations are scarce. We experienced the frequent electricity outages, as well as the increasing water scarcity that southern India is facing.

“When the boys got home in the afternoon, they worked together to water plants, sweep, clean, and rehydrate before going to play games in the courtyard. The Saint Mary’s troupe accompanied the barefoot boys in games of soccer and socialized with them, despite the language barrier.

“Over the course of nearly two weeks, the Saint Mary’s students were witness to the lives of the orphaned boys and the Christian Brothers who care for them. These men who have dedicated their lives in education and service to the poor exemplified a way of life that Christ called for, and they do so joyfully and humbly. Ask any of the Saint Mary’s representatives what they got out of the trip and they will surely be able to say ‘I now know what it means to be Lasallian.’ ” Approximately 150 students take advantage of SOUL trips each year and travel to places like Chicago, Ill.; Kansas City, Mo.; St. Louis, Mo.; Milwaukee, Wis.; Saint Mary-of-theWoods, Ind.; Browning, Mont.; Anthony, New Mexico; and Guatemala.≠

WWW.SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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Peter hegland ’17, conner ellinghuysen ’15, reikel biechler ’15 and katie o’leary ’16.

Students hope surge of supporters helps bring solar panels to campus Saint Mary’s students are hoping for a surge of supporters — and $20,000 — to help bring solar panels to the Winona campus.

Watt’s the big deal?

According to student organizer Conner Ellinghuysen ’15, the addition of a 16.4-kilowatt system will reduce the university’s carbon footprint, save the university money, and provide educational experiences for students.

The student-led fundraising initiative began with the Legislative Affairs Committee of the Student Senate.

Committee members Reikel Biechler ’15, Katie O’Leary ’16, Peter Hegland ’17 and Ellinghuysen spent a year developing the idea and proposal.

On Feb. 21, they were given the green light to begin fundraising by Saint Mary’s administration.

“This has been a particularly active and productive Student Senate,” Chris Kendall ’79, M’95, vice president for student life, said. “We’ve talked about various initiatives including solar panels in the past, but this group turned the talk into action. They made a proposal in the context of our strategic plan, and we’re proud of what they’ve accomplished.”

The group is partnering with anoth-

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er organization called Minnesota Student Energy Project (MNSEP), which has agreed to fund two-thirds of the $60,000 project.

That leaves a $20,000 fundraising goal. Ellinghuysen said the group would ideally like to raise the money by the end of the school year, so the panels could be installed before school resumes next fall.

Kendall calls it an “ambitious plan.”

But he also says, “I wouldn’t bet against them.”

The group is good at selling their product.

Ellinghuysen pointed out that this project will educate students further on the importance of protecting the environment.

Hegland added that all funding will come from outside sources, and the panels will produce an immediate savings for the university. Early estimates put the energy cost savings to SMU at 1 percent or higher each year.

Additionally, the 40 panels come with a data collection system. “That was a selling point for the proposal,” Biechler said. “We talked about students using the data in the classrooms, especially the sciences and business departments. There is a whole list of majors who could benefit.”

tom heineman ’70 was so impressed with this student-led initiative that he has offered to match the first $5,000 raised with a $500 contribution. heineman fondly remembers brother charles severin being on the forefront of the environmental movement and also remembers the first “earth Day” in 1970. he urges alumni to consider contributing to the greening of smu!

to donate Go to www.razoo.com/story/solarPanel-student-initiative or send checks payable to the saint mary’s solar Panel initiative to saint mary’s university, 700 terrace heights #21, Winona, mn 55987.

Science students could study energy output at various times of day or the effect of weather on energy output.

Business students might look at doing energy cost savings analysis studies.

The student group is anxious to shed some light on the subject to potential financial supporters. “We’ve already gotten a lot of student and faculty support,” O’Leary said. “The project has generated a lot of excitement. We just have to turn that support into action.”

For more information, e-mail Ellinghuysen at crelli11@smumn.edu or go to www.facebook.com/solarpanelsmu, where a link to the Razoo giving page is provided.≠ SPRING 2014

sGPP PostinGs

Online master’s programs expanding Coming this fall, Saint Mary’s will be launching three new online master’s programs: • M.S. in Accountancy – The accounting program equips students for career advancement by allowing them to prepare for the CPA exam and CMA certification while they earn their master’s degrees.

• M.Ed. in Learning Design and Technology – The learning design and technology master’s degree provides an innovative approach to pedagogy and education by providing the technological tools to elevate current teaching skills.

• M.A. in International Development – This program equips learners with the tools to influence and manage human and social change by teaching practical application and skills.

Applications are now being accepted for the Fall 2014 term. To learn more about these new programs, call 877-308-9954 or visit onlineprograms.smumn.edu/ alumnimagazine.≠

200 adult learners commence at January ceremony Family, friends and colleagues cheered as more than 200 graduates received their diplomas from Saint Mary’s University and its Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs on Sunday, Jan. 19 in Minneapolis.

The commencement exercises were one of three convocations held throughout the year. It was a chance for the adult learners to receive recognition, share stories, hear from Brother William and receive their diplomas.

Other speakers at commencement were four graduating students who reflected on their individual journeys.

• Patrick Aminga nyakundi, who received a B.S. in Allied Healthcare Management, spoke of his long, arduous educational journey that included a path from Kenya to the United States in 2001 and on to graduation from Saint Mary’s in 2013.

• Jacqueline mahon, who received a Master’s of Business Administration, told how Saint Mary’s helped her complete an MBA after returning from a military tour in Iraq in 2010.

• Peter kuhnly, who earned a B.S. in Business Administration, spoke of his decade-long road toward a degree.

• Julie Whitford, who received an M.A. in Counseling & Psychological Services, spoke about the encouragement and mentorship she received.

The 2013 graduates — including Saint Mary’s first fully online graduate students (read more on page 19) — celebrated their educational accomplishments together at the post-event receptions. It was evident in their faces that they’re prepared for the next step.≠

Videos describe online graduate programs Eight new professionally produced videos promote Saint Mary’s and its current online graduate programs.

The videos feature SMU community members and were created in partnership with Deltak and Big Teeth Productions of Chicago, along with staff from the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs.

The distinctive new videos include an overview of Saint Mary’s online initiative, which has links to each of the six current fully online programs (http://onlineprograms.smumn.edu/ online-programs) and a video about the innovative mobile aspects of the programs using iPads and a special application (http://onlineprograms.smumn. edu/cut-cord-ipad).

The individual degree programs highlighted include: M.S. in Project Management; M.A. in Human Resource Management; M.A. in Educational Leadership; M.A. in Health and Human Services Administration; M.A. in Organizational Leadership; and M.A. in Special Education.≠ WWW.SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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300 attend ‘Missing Voices’ educational summit On Feb. 6, the Graduate School of Education welcomed more than 300 educators, youth and parents to the second “Missing Voices: Equity in Education Summit” at the University Center on the Twin Cities campus. Led by the Culturally Responsive Teaching program, the sold-out event encouraged stakeholders, particularly those who aren’t always given access, to collaborate in a solutions-oriented process about eliminating the achievement gap.

This year’s theme, “Collectively Imagining a Future of Justice for our Students,” featured Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings as keynote.

Dr. Ladson-Billings is the Kellner Family Professor of Urban Education in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. The event was supported by the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership and Minneapolis Public Schools.≠

Faculty recognized for teaching excellence, Lasallian values Three adjunct faculty members with the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs were recognized for excellence in teaching and modeling the Lasallian values. Presented with Brother Julius Winkler Adjunct Faculty Recognition Awards this fall were, from left: K. David Hirschey (Graduate School of Business and Technology), William Kenney (Graduate School of Health and Human Services), and William Knutson M’00 (Graduate School of Education). These new awards, honoring the example set by longtime and beloved Saint Mary’s faculty member Brother Julius Winkler, were presented at an awards dinner Sept. 20 at the Twin Cities campus.≠

Doctoral student, alumnus named 2014 Bush Fellows Jennifer Waltman, a Saint Mary’s University student in the Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology program, and Master’s in Public Safety Administration alumnus Sherman Patterson M’13 were two of 24 leaders recently awarded a 2014 Bush Fellowship.

Waltman, from Maple Grove, Minn., will use the $100,000 award to assist her during the next three years in completing her studies at Saint Mary’s and to help develop systems to assist in mental health advocacy and therapy for Native Americans.

“I’m a Lakota, and my interest is in my own community and improving the health of Native Americans,” Waltman said. “Natives have the biggest disparity in the nation for chronic disease. It is my hypothesis that historical trauma has caused epigenetic changes that contribute to epidemics of poor health outcomes such as diabetes, substance use disorder, cancer, heart disease, depression and PTSD. I want to explore mental health treatment incorporating traditional healing that would improve symptoms of chronic disease.”

Citing guidance from mentors in the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe and the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, Waltman will also use some of the award money to fund research with professors at UCLA and the University of Oklahoma. Her long-term goals include working with other multicultural psychologists to create a multicultural health and wellness center, eventually leading to consulting tribes and native people to help eliminate health disparity.

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For Patterson, as he has progressed in his career as a community liaison for Minneapolis police chief Janeé Harteau ’03, M’06, his neighborhood outreach alerted him to troubling trends of gun violence — especially among youth. The plan he formulated and presented to the Bush Foundation was titled “Breaking the Cycle of Gun Violence.” One of the main strategies within his plan is to gather a group of 10 to 20 young men who are at risk — 10 from North Minneapolis and 10 from South Minneapolis, five of whom will be of East African descent — and provide positive influence for them before they fall into a cycle of gun violence.

“These black young men are on the cusp,” Patterson said.

“I’m going to immerse them in programs that will educate the mind, body and soul. We’ll be doing field trips and exposing them to positive things in life. Having this fellowship will give me the opportunity to bring in speakers and be actionable.”

Since 1965, the Bush Foundation has worked to develop the leadership capacity of the region by making investments in more than 2,200 people through its fellowship programs.

The Bush Fellowship is designed for people who have already demonstrated exceptional leadership abilities, but who feel they could accomplish even more for their community with focused, intensive leadership development. The fellowship is distinctive in its flexibility, allowing fellows to articulate what they need to become a better leader — whether through a self-designed learning experience or an academic program — then providing them with the resources and support to make it happen.≠ SPRING 2014

sGPP PostinGs

fred de sam lazaro, director of the under-told stories Project; Julie hendrickson, daughter of the hendrickson institute founders bill and Jean hendrickson; chris Policinski, ceo of land o’lakes and recipient of the hendrickson institute medal for ethical leadership; brother William; sheila bair, senior advisor to the Pew charitable trusts and former leader of the fDic; edward mann, hendrickson institute advisory board; and scott mcmahon, executive director of the hendrickson institute for ethical leadership at saint mary’s.

Former FDIC head speaks at annual Hendrickson Forum Nearly 350 people learned more about the U.S. financial crisis of 2008 and received insight on how to prevent its reoccurrence from an industry expert during the April 8 Hendrickson Forum.

Sheila Bair, former head of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, current chair of the Systemic Risk Council and author, was the featured speaker for the 2014 Hendrickson Forum, held at the Twin Cities campus.

Bair spoke on “Main Street vs. Wall Street and the New Financial Paradigm,” providing a unique and informed perspective. Having served as the head of the FDIC from 2006 to 2011, Bair wants banks to start using smarter tactics so they can avoid another disaster like the “Great Recession.”

“The ethics of leverage, short-sightedness, greed . . . these are not new,” Bair said. “These are ethical debates that we’ve had for a long time, and yet we keep repeating them. Pretty much any financial crisis in history has been driven by these elements. So I hope that after this last debacle, we can get into a financial system that is more long-term thinking. I hope banks can give up their short-term, highly leveraged profits in return for sustainable, long-term growth and sustainable, steady dividends.”

Bair was one of a handful of national fiscal leaders who was tasked with finding solutions to catastrophic sub-prime mortgage failures. During the crisis, she navigated the politics of Washington negotiations while asserting the interests of taxpayers, especially depositors and homeowners. Looking ahead, Bair

encouraged the audience to deal with banks that they trust and have good relationships with.

“I hope bank customers will have a way of scrutinizing their relationship, especially with corporate customers,” Bair said. “Are you being treated well? Because you can go someplace else if you’re not. Go someplace where they’re going to appreciate your business.”

Lauded for her efforts, Bair has received numerous honors, including the John F. Kennedy Profiles in Courage Award and Forbes magazine’s “second most powerful woman in the world” distinction. In 2011, she was named by Harvard University and the Washington Post Magazine as one of America’s top leaders.

Also at the forum, president and CEO of Land O’Lakes Chris Policinski was awarded the 2014 Hendrickson Medal for Ethical Leadership for his significant contributions to the Twin Cities community. This award ceremony was preceded by a seminar on “Managing Risk in an Interconnected World.” Four local experts on international trade analyzed the balancing of risk and consequences among financial institutions, companies, investors and consumers. The 2014 Hendrickson Seminar panelists included Curtis Hanson (Trade Acceptance Group, Ltd.), Mary Henehan (US Bank Foreign Exchange), Patricia Pelzer (United States Distilled Products, Co./Phillips Distilling Co.) and Timm Reifschneider (Rosenbauer America).≠ WWW.SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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Presidential Awards for outstanding merit were presented to lillie Pang and stephen murray.

Six awards presented at Founders’ Day Saint Mary’s presented awards to three educators, a staff member, and two outstanding seniors at its Founders’ Day celebration April 1.

Presidential Awards for Outstanding Merit were presented to two educators who are alumni of Saint Mary’s: Lillie Pang, principal of Hale School in Minneapolis; and Stephen Murray, assistant principal and dean of students at Aquinas High School in La Crosse, Wis. Pang, who received a certificate in education administration from Saint Mary’s in 1999, has worked as an elementary school teacher in Wisconsin, California, Illinois, Japan and Minnesota for 22 years.

As a successful urban school administrator in Minneapolis for the past 14 years, she has worked tirelessly to support instructional excellence, build community and service connections for families, and promote inclusive and safe schools. She has served as a leading voice in Minnesota for equity and excellence in public schools.

Murray, a 1971 alumnus, has demonstrated selfless service, faith-filled teaching and administrative leadership and has served as an extraordinary role model for his family.

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Murray first served the Diocese of Winona at Pacelli High School for 22 years as a teacher of English and religion, chair of the religion department and coordinator of student service projects. He then went on to work for the past 20 years in the Diocese of La Crosse at Aquinas High School as a religion teacher, dean of students and now assistant principal/dean of students.

Dr. Richard Tristano, professor of history at Saint Mary’s, received the Distinguished Lasallian Educator award.

These awards are given by Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education. Dr. Tristano has shared his enthusiasm and passion for history with Saint Mary’s students for 22 years. This award recognizes his commitment to teaching excellence, his scholarly research and writing — especially regarding Saint John Baptist de La Salle and Lasallian history and pedagogy — and the spirit of faith and zeal he brings to his work at Saint Mary’s.

Donny Nadeau, sports information director, received the Bishop Patrick Heffron Award for service to the university. Nadeau,

a 1985 alumnus of Saint Mary’s, has served as sports information director for more than 19 years. His work has earned recognition at both the conference and national levels, and his commitment and dedication serve as an inspiration to others at the university.

Heffron Award winners are chosen because they have contributed positively to the life of the university, have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the values of the university, and have been models of the Lasallian spirit in their interactions with colleagues and students.

The Outstanding Male and Female Senior awards were presented to Amy Spitzmueller, daughter of Kathy and Bill Spitzmueller of New Brighton, Minn., and Miles Dunna, son of Wokie Dunna of Saint Paul, Minn. Outstanding Seniors have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership and service. Above all, these men and women have shown genuine concern for meeting the needs of others. The following students were finalists for the 2014 Outstanding Senior awards: (Females) Lisa Obasi, Abigail Osborne, Marilyn Yennie and Katherine Zuzek; (Males) Dylan Ethen, Evan Shockley, John Soucheray and Matthew Traxler.≠ SPRING 2014

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SMU receives national vet friendly designation

Above: Dr. richard tristano, professor of history, received the Distinguished lasallian educator Award, and Donny nadeau ’85, sports information director, received the bishop Patrick heffron Award. beloW: outstanding seniors Amy spitzmueller and miles Dunna.

This past fall Saint Mary’s University was the only Minnesota institution in the U.S. News “National Universities” category to be ranked one of the “Best Colleges for Veterans.” The list includes the topranked schools in the magazine’s overall Best Colleges rankings that participate in federal initiatives to help veterans and active service members apply, pay for and complete their degrees.

In the 2014 edition of the U.S. News Best Colleges, all of the U.S. News Best Colleges for Veterans scored well in terms of graduation rate, faculty resources, reputation and other markers of academic quality. To qualify for the veterans’ rankings, the schools also had to be certified for the GI Bill and participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program and Service members Opportunity Colleges (SOC) Consortium.

Jackie Mahon M’13 has benefitted from Saint Mary’s veteran-friendly services. She completed her master’s degree while working as a project coordinator for Global Financial Institutions at Wells Fargo International Group and serving as a member of the Air National Guard.

As an active Guard member with a full-time job, Mahon said she chose the Saint Mary’s Jackie mahon m’13 MBA program at the Twin Cities campus because it was cost-effective, flexible and relevant. “I didn’t want to have a ton of debt at the end of my education, so I found a program that I could cover completely using my military and Wells Fargo education benefits. I also like the flexibility of the night and Saturday classes,” Mahon said. “And at Saint Mary’s, the professors have experience out in the world, then they come back to teach what they know.

“You receive a great education from Saint Mary’s without having to sacrifice your financial security and personal life.”

Mahon graduated with her MBA degree from Saint Mary’s in December 2013.≠ WWW.SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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University begins reaccreditation process The university has begun its process for reaccreditation with the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC), the institution’s regional accreditor.

Following months of planning, the process officially kicked-off at University Convocation Day on August 21. The university is participating in the Open Pathway model for accreditation, a new pathway offered by HLC to select institutions. The Open Pathway separates the continued accreditation process into two components: the Assurance Review and the Quality Initiative. The process includes submission of a document with the university’s findings and a visit to SMU by a review team, which will occur during the 2016-17 academic year.

Dr. Donna Aronson, vice president of academic affairs, and Brother Robert Smith, FSC, ’76, Ph.D., vice president for the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs, are co-chairs of the Reaccreditation Steering Committee. Tracy Lehnertz M’97, associate vice president for institutional effectiveness, is the reaccreditation coordinator. Fifty-four members of the university community are participating on the steering committee, one of five criterion committees, or the Quality Initiative working group. A Federal Compliance working group was formed in April.

“The reaccreditation process, as developed by the Higher Learning Commission, requires us to review what we are doing and how we are doing it against standards that are considered good practice in higher education,” Dr. Aronson said. “The new process is a continuous improvement model, and the addition of the Quality Initiative will help institutions in this region to engage the reaccreditation process a bit differently than in the past.”

Brother Robert added, “Because this is a collaborative effort, we are able to look at our university critically and constructively from multiple vantage points. We clearly understand that our goal is reaccreditation for SMU, but certainly improvement too, and this self-examination process will ultimately help us to better serve our students.”

For more information on the institution’s reaccreditation efforts, visit the reaccreditation website at www.smumn.edu/reaccreditation.≠

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The Higher Learning Commission evaluates an entire educational institution in terms of its mission and the Criteria for Accreditation. The Criteria for Accreditation are the standards of quality by which the Higher Learning Commission determines whether an institution merits accreditation or reaffirmation of accreditation. An institution must meet each of the five Criteria for Accreditation to merit accreditation or reaccreditation. Besides assessing formal educational activities, it evaluates such things as governance and administration, financial stability, admissions and student services, institutional resources, student learning, institutional effectiveness, and relationships with internal and external constituencies. criterion one — mission The institution’s mission is clear and articulated publicly; it guides the institution’s operations. criterion tWo — inteGrity: ethicAl AnD resPonsible conDuct The institution acts with integrity; its conduct is ethical and responsible. criterion three — teAchinG AnD leArninG: QuAlity, resources, AnD suPPort The institution provides high quality education, wherever and however its offerings are delivered. criterion four — teAchinG AnD leArninG: evAluAtion AnD imProvement The institution demonstrates responsibility for the quality of its educational programs, learning environments, and support services, and it evaluates their effectiveness for student learning through processes designed to promote continuous improvement. criterion five — resources, PlAnninG, AnD institutionAl effectiveness The institution’s resources, structures, and processes are sufficient to fulfill its mission, improve the quality of its educational offering, and respond to future challenges and opportunities. The institution plans for the future.

SPRING 2014

Meet our Trustees

Each issue, Saint Mary’s Magazine is profiling a member of the Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees. Members of this board have fiduciary responsibility for the governance of the university. The trustees are a highly accomplished, dedicated and enthusiastic group of people who are committed to Saint Mary’s. We invite you to get to know these men and women.

Sandra “Sandi” (Kaiser CST’72) Simon When did you begin serving on the board and what committees are you serving on?

I began in October 2011, and I have served on the University Faculties and Academics Committee and am currently on the University Advancement Committee and the University Mission and Trustees Committee.

Why did you agree to become a member of the SMU Board of Trustees?

I am a 1972 graduate of the College of Saint Teresa. My husband (Daniel) attended Saint Mary’s University and served on the board prior to his death in 2005. Winona has always held a special place in my heart.

What has it been like having more of a governance role?

It has been an educational experience learning the mechanics of operating and running a university.

What discussions have been the most interesting since you've joined the board?

Learning and hearing about where small private colleges and universities stand nationally, how we can compete with larger schools, and where are we heading in this new century.

What are your hopes and dreams for Saint Mary's second century?

I would like to see Saint Mary’s be just as successful in its second 100 years as it was its first 100 years.

Sandra Simon and her grandson.

What is your current employment?

I am president of KJ Investment, LLC of Chicago.

What is your proudest accomplishment (personal and/or professional)?

My family, becoming a grandmother and continuing my husband’s business.≠

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A conduit of God’s grace Brother Paulos reflects on 10 years leading CTIE in Nairobi Brother Paulos Mesmer ’90, M’91, Ed.D., knows of students who eat only once a day so they can afford to continue their education at Christ the Teacher Institute for Education (CTIE) in Nairobi, Kenya.

That desperate desire for an education is something few can truly comprehend.

But Brother Paulos, director of CTIE, has been there.

The second youngest of six children growing up on a farm in Eritrea, Paulos was envious of his older brothers and sisters who were able to attend school. “I was the person to take care of the goats and cows,” he said. “That’s how it was. My parents were not trying to be hard on me. Many of my friends never got the opportunity to study.

Someone had to do the chores.”

Yet, the young Paulos knew that education was the key that would open doors, and he remained persistent.

At the age of 9, Paulos’ parents relented, and he was allowed to join his siblings in school. “It meant that my mother had to do the (chores) I was doing. The sacrifice from my mother was tremendous,” he said. “My mother, who is 94 years old now, did not know how to read or write, but she is a person of tremendous generosity, love and wisdom. She made incredible sacrifices so that her sons and daughters might see the light of knowledge. The sacrifice she made for me was an exceptional one.”

Paulos didn’t waste any time in school. “I embraced school and put all my heart and mind into it,” he said.

Using even the moonlight to study into the late hours, Brother Paulos studied hard and long.

This is perhaps why the most difficult part of Brother Paulos’ position is to tell his students their funding has run out, and they will not be able to continue their studies.

“I have been there. I know what it means. I knew it then and I know it

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even more now,” he said. “It is very, very painful. As I speak to you now, I am thinking of students. I look at their eyes. I know when they stand before me that this is a deciding moment in the life of this individual. They want to stay.

The sacrifices they have made are tremendous. Some have given everything they have to stay in school. I always took going to school as a huge privilege.”

Brother Paulos frequently speaks about the “ripple effect” at CTIE. He has witnessed first-hand how one seemingly small ripple — one student receiving an education — can grow and expand, bettering families and bettering communities and beyond. The graduates of CTIE go on to work in some of the most remote areas of Africa, teaching new generations of young students.

One graduate may go on to touch countless lives.

It’s the same ripple effect Brother Paulos believes was started by Saint John Baptist de La Salle, the founder of the De La Salle Christian Brothers.

“In my humble opinion, that is what our founder did 350 years ago, when De La Salle lit a small spark of light. That light, supported by the grace of God, expanded over time to all corners of the world: from Europe to Latin America to North America to Africa to Asia and to Australia. That light, that ripple effect, touched many lives. It touched all of us. Personally it has touched me in a great way. If it were not for that ripple effect, I would not have known anything about Minnesota.

I would not have known anything about Saint Mary’s University.”

Brother Paulos came to Saint Mary’s in 1986. He earned a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems and psychology and added a master’s degree in counseling psychology, all within five years.

He began heading CTIE in July 2003, and he is credited with enhancing quality of delivery methods and

expanding programs, most recently adding a Master of Education program.

“I went to a school where education had a purpose: for service and for self-transformation, and that opportunity for service continues on. I have shared that same spirit of Saint Mary’s, that Lasallian spirit, in my work.

“As an example, one of my students had one semester to go. In any other school, he would be told if you cannot pay, you must go home, but that is not the Lasallian way. We kept him and he graduated.”

This man, Brother Paulos said, became a principal and returned one

SPRING 2014

Brother Paulos honored with Presidential award For his lifelong dedication to education, Brother Paulos received the Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit Dec. 17 on the Winona campus.

The award citation reads:

day to Brother Paulos’ office. “He looked straight at me and he teased me. He said, ‘Brother, now I am just like you. I am a ‘boss’ to a school just like CTIE. Now I am teaching hearts and touching minds and transforming lives.’ ” “It is all about making a ripple effect,” he said. “No matter how big or small that ripple effect might be. It’s all about becoming a conduit of God’s grace. The lives of millions of people were shaped and are still being formed by this powerful Lasallian ripple effect.”

Brother Paulos’ niece, Christina Welday, is continuing that legacy as a freshman at Saint Mary’s. “She somehow said, ‘I have to go to Saint Mary’s,’ ” Brother Paulos said. “She got it in her heart.”

When his term expires at CTIE, Brother Paulos said he will go where the call is, wherever service is to be provided. Looking back on the past 10 years, he reflected on “how many students I have touched, but also how many students have touched me.”

To read a complete story of his life, go to www.standardmedia.co.ke/ from-herding-goats-to-shepherding-students.≠

Whereas, Brother Paulos Welday Mesmer, FSC, distinguished teacher and gifted administrator has worked tirelessly to promote excellence in teacher education in Kenya; and Whereas, Brother Paulos, faithful leader of Christ the Teacher Institute for Education for the past 10 years, has patiently guided the Institute in an environment with limited resources while servicing students with unlimited needs; and Whereas, Brother Paulos, devoted colleague and friend, has nurtured faculty at the Institute in new methods of teaching and assessment to improve teaching, student engagement and learning; and Whereas, Brother Paulos, educational innovator, had the vision to address issues in school leadership in Kenya by developing the Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration; and Whereas, the work of Brother Paulos will have longlasting impact on the education of students at all levels throughout Kenya; Therefore, in admiration and gratitude, the Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit is bestowed upon Brother Paulos Welday Mesmer, FSC, for his commitment and selfless service to Lasallian Catholic higher education.≠

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A place in history Building on SMU Minneapolis campus named for Brother Louis DeThomasis Thirty years after Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota established its presence in Minneapolis, the university dedicated Brother Louis Hall to honor the president who pioneered the school’s rise to the forefront of adult education in Minnesota. At the Feb. 13 event, the university also recognized five De La Salle Christian Brother presidents who have contributed more than 125 years of service to Lasallian higher education.

Brother Louis Hall, located at 2304 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, was named for Brother Louis DeThomasis, FSC, president of Saint Mary’s University from 1984 to 2005 and again from 2007-2008. Brother Louis’ legacy will live on in the three-level building that bears his name and houses several classrooms and offices. The building was purchased by the university in 2006 to expand its graduate school and professional programs.

“This university will never forget what you did here, what you made possible,” Brother William said to Brother Louis during his remarks at the special ceremony in Minneapolis. “We have about 40,000 grad-

uates of Saint Mary’s University, and 20,000 of them have come through the (adult) programs in the last 20 years. That is an unbelievable legacy.”

In addition to the building dedication, Brother Louis and four other Christian Brothers who have served as presidents at Lasallian universities were presented with honorary doctorates at a special public ceremony. Brother Mel Anderson, Brother James Gaffney ’64, Brother Michael McGinniss and Brother Thomas Scanlan combined with Brother Louis to total more than 125 years of service at the helm of Lasallian institutions of higher education.

The five men were awarded with Doctorates of Educational Leadership, honoris causa.

“They are the giants of American Lasallian higher education, without a doubt,” Brother Louis said. “Each of these men gave 100 percent of their commitment to build American Lasallian higher education during very difficult and challenging times. I am so proud that I am being honored alongside these men and that I am able to call each of them my brothers.”≠

Brother William (left) and Michael Gostomski ’62, Chairman of the SMU Board of Trustees (right) congratulate Brother Louis DeThomasis, president emeritus.

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SPRING 2014

Hall named for graduate program visionary After posing for photographs in front of the newly dedicated building bearing his name at Saint Mary’s Twin Cities campus, Brother Louis DeThomasis, president emeritus, was asked what he liked most about the university and its Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs.

Without hesitation, he enthusiastically answered, “The action!” — adding that Saint Mary’s has long provided education to adult students who might not otherwise have had access to education. And he talked proudly of the many students he has seen graduate.

At the Feb. 13 dedication of Brother Louis Hall on Park Avenue in Minneapolis, Brother Louis wasn’t the only one reminiscing. He was applauded by a familiar audience filled with friends, colleagues and former employees.

“If you have been president of a university for over two decades, you’re called a lot of names,” Brother Louis remarked with a smile. “However, to be still alive and have a building named after you, that is indeed unusual, uncommon and an incredibly wonderful honor to be bestowed upon an individual.”

Brother Louis, who was president from 1984-2005 and 2007-2008, began early-on building his vision for adult education. In 1985, Saint Mary’s moved into 2500 Park Ave. in Minneapolis — a single building, which is now part of an expanded Twin Cities campus. Over the course of his tenure as president, the university’s graduate enrollment climbed from 286 students to more than 3,650. Adult student enrollment now numbers more than 4,300 students.

“A dynamo and risk-taker, it was Brother Louis who knew that Saint Mary’s needed to adapt to meet the needs of adult learners,” emcee Mary Catherine Fox ’75, Ph.D., said during the dedication ceremony. “His energy and leadership moved our Saint Mary’s culture on all of our campuses and delivery sites.”

His energy was still apparent as he stood at the dedication podium, 73 years old, and 30 years removed from his first days as Saint Mary’s University’s leader. With a touch of his trademark humor he spoke of the day he was introduced to the Saint Mary’s community.

“No one really knew me (at my inauguration), I was from the East Coast,” Brother Louis recalled as the crowd chuckled.

“John Sununu (former Governor of New Hampshire) said, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, you really don’t know what you’re getting with Brother Louis. He is a cross between Saint Francis of Assisi and Benito Mussolini.’ And that was my introduction to Saint Mary’s University in 1984.”

Also at his inauguration, his presidential predecessor, Brother Peter Clifford (now deceased), praised Brother Louis for his aptitude with money. Brother Louis, he said, was the right man for the job.

Under his financial leadership, Saint Mary’s would see its annual operating budget grow from $11 million to $53 million and the endowment rise from $2.8 million to $47.7 million.

While other private colleges struggled, Saint Mary’s grew.

And Brother Louis’ success did not go without notice.

“You brought a boldness and a vitality that transformed this institution,” Brother William said to Brother Louis in his dedication remarks. “My first year as president of Saint Mary’s, I had people talking to me in Washington about the ‘Saint Mary’s formula of graduate and professional delivery.’ I realized that they were talking about us, and they were talking about you.”≠

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Michael Gostomski ’62, Brother Thomas Scanlan, Brother William, Brother Mel Anderson, Brother Louis DeThomasis, Brother James Gaffney ’64 and Brother Michael McGinniss.

Christian Brothers honored for more than 125 years of presidential service The Feb. 13 dedication event in Minneapolis also recognized 125 years of presidential service by five Christian Brothers whose faithful leadership and many contributions to higher education have ignited and nurtured the Lasallian mission, not only here in the United States, but the world over. The honorees included: • Brother Mel Anderson, FSC, who served as the 23rd president of Saint Mary’s College of California from 1969 to 1997.

• Brother Thomas Scanlan, FSC, who served as the 18th president of Manhattan College from 1987 to 2009 and as the vice chancellor and chief executive officer of Bethlehem University from 1981 to 1987.

• Brother Michael McGinniss, FSC, who has served as the 28th president of La Salle University since 1999, and previously served as president of Christian Brothers University from 1994 to 1999.

• Brother James Gaffney ’64, FSC, who has served as the ninth President of Lewis University since 1988.

• Brother Louis DeThomasis, who served as the 11th president of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota from 1984 to 2005 and again from 2007-2008.

For their sustained leadership, notable achievements, and life-long dedication to the vision and guidance of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, they were each presented with a Doctor of Educational Leadership, honoris causa.

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The citation reads: Whereas, you have dedicated your entire professional lives as De La Salle Christian Brothers to the service of Church and society in schools, colleges, and universities; and Whereas, you have over many years distinguished yourselves as gifted teachers, educational innovators, talented administrators, and wise financial stewards; and Whereas, you are each valued and respected within the educational community of scholars and learners for your hard work, bold vision, and insightful, forthright, and wise counsel; and Whereas, you have inspired and supported the efforts of so many others to educate and prepare countless individuals, young and old alike, to live purposeful, just, and ethical lives in service of the whole human family; and Whereas, you serve as an inspiration for the entire international network of Lasallian educators and are appreciated for strong faith, ardent zeal, moral vision, great vigor, and fierce determination; and Whereas, you have, without any doubt, had a significant, long-lasting, and transformational impact on the future of Lasallian and Catholic higher education on this continent and around the world; Therefore, the Board of Trustees of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota bestows on each of you the degree of Doctor of Educational Leadership, honoris causa.≠

SPRING 2014

Fulfilling dreams fully online One of SMU’s first online students graduates and shares her story

Brooke Anderson M’13 was nervous about starting her online coursework at Saint Mary’s.

She was unsure about the technology.

She had never taken an online class before.

And, she didn’t know what to expect.

But Anderson was able to quickly build a support team that included her family, her instructors and her classmates.

Today she has a master’s degree in organizational leadership, one of the university’s first graduates in the fully online program. She attended the commencement ceremony Jan. 19, 2014 on the Twin Cities campus.

Now she looks back on the early days of class with fond memories.

“The first few weeks, I reached out to my classmates and was very open and honest about my insecurities,” Anderson said. “Surprisingly enough, the majority felt the same way I did. Most of them had families and were working full-time and had never taken an online-only program.”

Newly credentialed with an M.A. in Organizational Leadership, Anderson speaks fondly of the two other members of this inaugural class: Krystle Glad and Andrew Sarata.

“I still have not met either of my two classmates (Glad and Sarata) in person, but I’m closer to them than I am with some of my coworkers,” Anderson said. “I never expected that. We still talk all the time and email. My classmates were a big part of my life during this program even though I never met them face-to-face. You spend a lot of time on the phone on weekends or weeknights, and you hear background noises like kids and family life. You get to know all levels of who they are.”

Speaking of family, Anderson didn’t have to look far for academic inspiration. Her mother completed a master’s degree when Brooke was a child, balancing family, work and school. Years later, with Brooke in that same position, she thought of her mother’s focus when she needed motivation.

“There were times I wanted to give up, but then I would remember that my mom was working two jobs and raising two kids while going to school,” Anderson said. “My dad was there to support her through it all. I went through a similar experience. My husband was my rock through this entire program.”

For Anderson, the online option was a perfect fit. Much like her mother before her, she went back to school with young children and a full-time job at Wells Fargo as a risk management analyst. As she progressed in her education, she quickly saw the nighttime studies improve her quality of work during the day.

“Once I started the program, a lot of the material applied to things I could do right now,” Anderson said. “It added so much immediate value. It changed my life, literally.

The content really shows how much responsibility every person has in being a good leader and helping people out.

Making decisions for yourself really does affect everybody.”

And unlike other graduate programs, a master’s in organizational leadership is not exclusive to one career path.

Anderson attended class with substance-abuse counselors, police officers, college administrators, healthcare workers, corporate recruiters and more. She said they banded together as thinkers and brought vastly different experiences to the discussion.

Anderson was part of the inaugural group of Saint Mary’s students to graduate from a fully online program. But as the school’s academic offerings expand and grow, there will be more students in her shoes, learning remotely from locations throughout the country and around the world.

Her advice to any future online students who might share her same initial concerns: Stay close to your peers and support each other, no matter how far apart you might be.

“When you go through something like this program, you build a bond with your classmates because they are the ones who understand,” Anderson said.

“They are always there to cheer you on.”≠

Brother William and Diana-Christine Teodorescu, program director for the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership (right), congratulate Brooke Anderson M’13.

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Five alumni share career success stories

A bright future in lighting

John “J.M.” Montecalvo ’09 always knew he wanted to be in the movies. There was just one problem: getting up the nerve to audition.

“In high school, I was too scared to audition for plays so I told my dad I auditioned and didn’t get in,” he said. “I was lying, and my dad found out and called the dean.”

Montecalvo was given the ultimatum to either audition or do time in detention.

Faced with the alternative, Montecalvo mustered up enough nerve to read a few lines. He didn’t get in, but he did work on the set and from that point forward, he was hooked on theatre.

He came to Saint Mary’s through a connection with SMU’s Gary Diomandes and Montecalvo’s high school mentor Tom Haynes ’00, arts director at LaSalle Academy in Providence, R.I. “They both paved the way for where I am today,” he said.

During his time at Saint Mary’s, Montecalvo eagerly worked on all aspects of theatre, from sound to lighting to costumes to acting — and loved every minute of it.

This well-rounded experience helped prepare him for a career as a lighting designer, frequently working with NBC Universal in Hollywood.

“I was convinced I was going to be an actor until my junior year in college,” he said. But during his London theatre study abroad program, Montecalvo discovered during a hectic acting schedule that memorizing lines quickly and cold reading weren’t his strengths.

Instead, he focused on lighting design, choosing to get a master’s degree at Illinois State following his graduation from Saint Mary’s.

Two years ago, he moved to California. He interviewed with Radiance Lightworks, starting on the bottom as a basic

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electrician at Mattel Toys and working his way up to being a master electrician and lighting designer. He now works as a freelance assistant lighting designer with Universal Studios.

His first big event in California was lighting the afterparty for the “ParaNorman” movie premiere at Universal Studios Hollywood. Next, through Radiance, he worked on specialized lighting for the Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, which included seven haunted mazes with different themes.

Montecalvo says Universal spares no expense and packs in the crowds. He enjoyed working on lighting for mazes that require 3D glasses. “There’s a certain way you can light something to make it pop out when you wear 3D glasses, or make the walls look like they are moving,” he said. With live characters everywhere, he describes it as one immersive and scary experience.

“I love it,” he said, “But ironically I hate being scared. I would never go to this event if I wasn’t working it. But it is a lot of fun. I get to do stuff at Universal that normal people wouldn’t get to. I go in and out of sound stages. I get to drive my car through the park at night. There are only so many people who get to do that. And I get to work on premieres and with people I would never have gotten to otherwise.”

Montecalvo also got to design lighting for a Whoville scene at the studios. This same scene was featured on NBC’s “The Voice,” as the final three contestants were given Kia cars. “I got to work with their designer,” Montecalvo said.

“It looked great on TV. It was a cool experience.” (Check it out at www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYV5nL5dETU) His favorite part of the job is that no two days — or jobs — are ever the same; from lighting Whoville to lighting rocks.

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He did a permanent lighting installation in a backyard, illuminating boulders with complex lighting equipment. “It was a three-month process, completing a light show with music for his back yard,” he said. “It’s one of the most impressive things I’ve ever done. The boulders from Thailand are two stories high and 30 feet around. Each one is an individual piece of art.” To see pictures of this project (and more of the projects Montecalvo has been involved with, click on “portfolio” and then “live events” and “themed attractions” at www.radiancelightworks.com.)

“I probably work at Universal Studios six months of the year, and not one day is the same; it’s always a new challenge and a new adventure,” he said. As a freelance assistant lighting designer, Montecalvo has most recently helped outfit two local news channels with all-LED lights, a

first in the industry. “It’s never been done before,” he said “We’re setting a precedent for the way news will be lit within the NBC family. This was a prototype and when new studios want to upgrade, they will come through us.”

For this project, Montecalvo was able to work with — and learn from — lighting designer Robert Finley III, who has worked on movies like “Forrest Gump,” “Star Wars: Empire Strikes Back,” “Ghostbusters” and “The Goonies.”

For Montecalvo, it’s a dream job. “Being a freelance designer, when someone comes to you with a project, I get to pick and choose the people I like to work with every day as my crew. Going to work is hanging out with my friends and getting to make money every day. There’s nothing better than that.” ≠

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Making sunny connections on the court It’s just a typical day at the office when Walter Mannino ’09 arranges a special high-five, a coveted autograph, or a prime spot on the warm-up bench.

But to the clients he represents as an account experience specialist with the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, it’s a memory they’ll never forget.

Mannino manages a portfolio of more than 300 business/premium and individual ticket accounts. On LinkedIn, he describes his job as “maximizing the season ticket-holder experience.” That means thinking up new and creative events like the “high-five kids,” which gets younger fans out on the court to greet the players.

“We want to ensure they have a great experience, give them the ‘wow’ moments,” he said. “We ensure they are getting great memories so that when they grow up, they bring their kids.

“I try to make sure my accounts take a memory from each game. During yesterday’s game, we got to bring in some kids for the benchwarmer program. They got to sit on the bench and watch the players warm up right on the court. To see the excitement the kids get when they get that close to the players was great. We want them to feel like they got an amazing experience.

“Saint Mary’s helped me in that respect. You have that personalized experience at Saint Mary’s. I want to pass that along and show people as many personalized experiences as I can.”

Mannino admits, like most college students, he wasn’t sure what he wanted to study when he first came to Saint Mary’s, but looking back, majoring in sports management was a slam-dunk.

“I realized that I’ve been a sports fan my whole life. I love athletics,” he said. “The sports management program was fairly new at SMU, and I wanted to know about the business side of sports. I knew there were a lot of opportunities in that field.”

Mannino transferred to Saint Mary’s after two years of college. He played tennis while continuing his studies and got to know the Business Department faculty.

“Students should talk with a lot of professors,” Mannino advises, “They have a lot of connections and know a lot about the business world and sports world. Really try to learn more. Once you get out of college, it opens your eyes as to how important the connections you’ve made are.”

Following graduation, Mannino interned at Saddlebrook Resorts in Tampa, Fla., again mixing his two passions: sports management and playing tennis. There he was able to work with professional athletes like Derek Jeter and Ryan Howard.

Continuing to play tennis, he moved to Charlotte, N.C., and Richmond, Va., where he worked at country clubs, again

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putting his sports management experience to good use by serving as the director of tennis.

But Mannino heard the call of the NBA. “I wanted to be more on the business side of sports, and I had a big passion for the NBA and basketball and sports in general. It’s a very competitive field, so I decided to get a master’s degree in sports leadership at Duquesne University.

“And I looked for a good opportunity to get my foot in the door with professional sports teams. I applied all around the country,” he said.

His big break came with the WNBA’s Tulsa Shock in 2012. “I was one of the people who was chosen to start their inside sales program,” he said. “I couldn’t pass up the

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opportunity. I took the position, and got promoted after four months to an account executive, also on the sales side.”

His work didn’t go unnoticed. He was quickly recruited to move to Austin to work with the Texas Stars and for his current position with the Phoenix Suns this past June.

“I made some good connections and was contacted by the vice president of sales at the Suns,” he said. “He saw I had done well in Texas and Tulsa and really wanted someone committed to the industry.”

Mannino said he enjoys the fact that every day his job is a little different, and he recommends students interested in the field be able to communicate effectively. Being well-

spoken, he said, will help them stand out in a highly competitive field. “(Students) have to get involved and find people in the industry and really talk to them, do internships, network, ask questions,” he said. “I think it’s a great career; there are so many things you can learn. You can really do some great things in this industry.

“I’m creating memories for fans; this is something that they’ll be able to remember for the rest of their lives. You don’t really realize how much of an impact that you can have on people’s lives. I’m glad I chose to major in sports management at Saint Mary’s, and I love that I graduated from there.” ≠

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Giving real voice to computers

Taniya Mishra ’01 knew she wanted to study computer science in college. Yet the native of India admits with a quiet laugh that she had never touched a computer before she arrived on campus.

While in high school, she read computer books and tediously wrote out programming language in a notebook.

When she started school at Saint Mary’s, simply typing her research papers was a struggle, as she had never used a keyboard.

During her college career, Mishra not only taught herself to type and double-majored in computer science and math, she also interned with the Mayo Clinic and assisted with a research grant that would come to shape her career as a computer speech scientist.

“My senior year, I ended up doing research through a grant with Ann Smith, (retired) then-chair of the computer science department and my advisor. It was an NSF grant, which looked at how to teach computer science to someone who is visually impaired. We had to use a lot of computer-generated speech,” she said. “This was my first introduction to getting computers to produce words and speech, and I was hooked. It ended up becoming my career. I’m very glad I got that amazing opportunity; it changed my life.”

Mishra earned her Ph.D. in computer science and is now a senior member of research staff at AT&T in New York City, a position she has held since 2008.

Mishra works on speech and language technologies to improve communication and reduce accessibility barriers. She builds synthetic voices to embody different characters and emotions. As someone who speaks five languages, she has always been fascinated by dialect.

“My work involves two pieces, analysis and synthesis,” she explains. “Synthesis takes text and gets the computer to produce speech. This field has been around for a few decades but the

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challenge is discovering how to produce not just intelligible and speech, but also expressive speech. My particular focus is making computer-generated speech more natural sounding, more expressive, with human-live melody and expression to it.

“The analysis aspect of my job uses computational methods to analyze human speech, looking at both the words that are said and how they are said, to identify emotion. Are they happy, sad, angry, disgusted? We also identify intent. By looking at emphasis, we determine which part of what a person says they care the most about.”

One of the applications she is working on is a storyteller application geared toward children.

“I focused on children’s stories for two reasons. My interests lie in developing child-directed applications for people with accessibility needs. This goes back to the first project (in college), using technology to meet accessibility needs. That is my passion, the focus of my work.

“Children love stories. An app that reads out children’s stories in a variety of character-appropriate voices so that kids are seeing and hearing the words at the same time could be both entertaining and educational. This app may also serve the needs of children with learning disabilities, who need information presented in a different way than just printed on a page.”

Children, she says, are the most difficult customers. With a 2- and 4-year-old at home, she can speak from personal experience. If a story isn’t read in an interesting, fun and engaging way, they will quickly lose interest.

“This is a very difficult genre,” she said. “It immediately points out all the ways we need to improve. But any success in underlying technology easily generalizes to other tasks.”

Mishra said she credits some amazing mentors for helping her get where she is today. “I don’t think I would be where I am without the advisors and the teachers I had in college, and before that in high school. Students should identify good mentors and ask them lots of questions. I would have never gotten a Ph.D. without my advisor’s encouragement.”

Mishra came to Saint Mary’s because her caring and protective parents — sending their then 18-year-old daughter to study overseas — wanted her to study at a smaller Catholic school with individualized attention. After some acclimation time, they told her she could still transfer to a larger school.

“After a year, I checked it out, but I had gotten used to the close community at Saint Mary’s, and the largeness and the anonymity of a larger school didn’t appeal to me anymore,” she said.

Mishra believes successful students are self-motivated. “A mentor can encourage you but you still have to do the work. Identify what you want, where you want to go and work hard at it; give it everything. If you fail, it’s not because you didn’t try, and you will learn lots of things in the process.” ≠

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Taking gaming to a new level

John “J.J.” Williams ’00 can tell you that the mouse has clout.

After 10 years in the video game design industry, Williams can drop lots of respected and recognizable names in the gaming world; he’s worked on “Mortal Kombat” and “Rockband,” titles that resonate with more than a few avid players.

“I have to say that the crown jewel of my career has been getting to be a lead designer at Disney,” he said. “I’ve never gotten this much respect. The mouse gets their attention.”

Williams has been a lead designer at Disney Interactive/Wideload Games for nearly five years, but — looking back — the self-proclaimed nerd may have always been destined for this career.

“I have played video games pretty much since I remember being around,” he said. As a kid, his gaming fascination began with “The Legend of Zelda” and “Mega Man.” A business and communication major at Saint Mary’s, Williams remembers he and his roomates playing a ton of “Mario Cart” and “Golden Eye.” Later, games that made him want to get into the industry were “Metal Gear Solid,” “Final Fantasy VII” and “Diablo.”

“It may have been why my GPA was so low,” he said with a laugh, adding in a serious tone, “I’ve got to go back and tell them it was research.”

Fresh out of college, Williams entered the business world but quickly knew it wasn’t a good fit. “I didn’t feel like my life’s ambitions were being met,” he said. “I felt I was a little more imaginative. I always enjoyed my creative writing courses in school.” So, he went back to school to study art. And, he set his sights on breaking into the video game industry.

“I knew this was a field where I could really enjoy what I do and be good at it, so I asked myself, ‘How do I get into this wild industry because it’s nuts.’ I had never even heard of how games were made. I got into my first gig working on animation for a wrestling game.”

Along the way, he worked for several different companies including Midway (which was bought by Warner Brothers) and Harmonix. Along the way, he gained good experience and made close friends and valuable connections.

He also came out with a game of his own, “Pirate Blitz” and owns his own independent game development company, 12 Gauge Studio.

He’s been able to cross several things off his bucket list throughout his career. Through Disney, he was able to work with the Marvel characters in “Avengers Initiative,” and he just completed work on “Disney Infinity.”

“A designer, for lack of a better way to describe it, makes sure the game is enjoyable to play,” he said. “That’s the bottom line and first priority, making game-play fun. I have a staff of six guys and girls (in Chicago) and we’re working on a pretty big title now but I can’t tell you what it is.

I juggle a lot of things with engineering and audio and art and sound, and I manage all these pieces and make sure it all works together and that the game is enjoyable to play.”

Williams said he works with a Japanese developer and is in constant contact every evening. “I’m meeting with designers and talking to them about how the process is going, proofing and approving things, going over schedules with producers.

“If someone came up to me and said, ‘I want to be a game designer,’ I’d tell them you have to learn how to write and explain your thoughts on a piece of paper, and be able to communicate that thought verbally, be able to pitch the idea for a studio. You also have to have a technical knowhow to be able to bring it to an engineer. My art background really helps me to get my ideas across to artists. And my business degree helps me with pitching ideas and getting buy-in from the studio. It’s a jack-of-all-trades kind of deal.”

After 10 years, Williams said he feels like an old sage.

“My advice is that it may seem like a big industry, but it’s really small, and your reputation, getting to know people, is the big thing. Get into it any which way you can, even at the bottom.

“I was lucky. I just persevered and wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. When you start at the beginning, you’ve got to just expect to work a ton. It’s called crunch. It’s a very deadline-oriented business. That’s 60- to 80-hour workweeks and that goes on for months, especially with the bigger titles.

It’s a great industry and super-fun to see your ideas come to life, but it does get rough.”

Williams’ favorite fan is his 1-year-old daughter, who enjoys watching him play video games and drools (literally) over the controls. Williams, as a proud dad, is patiently looking forward to passing the controller to the next generation, saying, “She’ll be ready.” ≠

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A heart for non-profit work

In working for a non-profit, Kelly Anne Ohde ’06 says she often wears many diverse hats.

In the scope of her position as microenterprise and marketing manager for Easter Seals, she works hands-on with individuals with autism and other disabilities — helping clients with job skills and vocational training and helping them to foster independence.

At other times, her bachelor’s degree in public relations and electronic publishing (and master’s degree in public relations and advertising) come in handy.

“I do marketing for Easter Seals, which means anything; it really ranges,” she said, listing her responsibility areas: website work, social media, news releases, event planning, community outreach awareness, brochure production, logo designing, and fundraising activities from galas to golf outings.

Additionally, the “microenterprise” portion of her job involves managing a small business, HarrysButtons of the Chicago area, which supports employment for individuals with autism and other disabilities.

Ohde has been with Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago full-time for five years and part-time for 10 years.

“The organization I work for has a pretty large footprint – helping 30,000 people with disabilities. Autism happens to be my concentration,” Ohde said.

HarrysButtons was donated to Easter Seals by a family who has a son with autism. The family started the business in the basement of their home in 2004. HarrysButtons now has two locations, Tinley Park and Chicago, with plans to expand to Rockford, Ill. It currently employs roughly 50 individuals with autism and other disabilities.

“We do everything from creating buttons (for small orders like birthday parties to large orders of 30,000 buttons). We also create our own products and take on the production of other people’s products, like wine charms, handmade and customized with Swarovski crystals.

Last year’s Academy Awards celebrity presenters received swag bags in the celebrity gifting lounge which included wine charms from the HarrysButtons team. It was very cool.

“We do our own products and receive grants and funding to continue expanding and diversifying. It could be a one-time production or long-term.”

Ohde’s clients range the autism spectrum.

Some communicate nonverbally, using sign language or pictures; others are higher functioning.

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“We look at the individuals we work with and find their abilities and find positions in their strengths,” she said.

“We provide a wide range of services, for babies through adults. I work with students who attend our therapeutic schools; most have autism or something very similar. They range in age from 16 to 22, and our adult clients are 22 to their mid-30s.”

Ohde’s career path began at Saint Mary’s.

(With several family members as alumni and students, it was the only school she applied to, she states matter-of-factly.) She began studying business and after enjoying her classes with Dean Beckman and Dr. Steve Schild, she decided to change to public relations. Only a few classes short of a double-major in electronic publishing, Ohde decided to complete both.

“It was a great decision,” she said. “I got my master’s degree in public relations and advertising from DePaul, and my time at Saint Mary’s gave me a solid foundation to be accepted into that program and excel.”

While she was a student, she also worked in the Development and Alumni Relations Office at Saint Mary’s. “That internship also helped me,” she said. “I had the opportunity to help plan some smaller events. I have really fun memories of my time there.”

Her education, her internships, and her passion for Easter Seals, she says, seemed to lead her to her current position. “Looking back, I started working at Easter Seals summers while I was in college,” Ohde said. “I took a part-time job as a one-on-one aide for a child with autism. I love the organization. I’ve been associated with it nearly my whole life, since I was 8.

In college, I always did projects whenever I could, about autism and Easter Seals. I now have my dream job, which is kind of funny.

“The thing I love most is definitely seeing the progress that people make. We get to see people saying their first words at 7 years old. It’s a really powerful moment and it makes you want to work harder,” Ohde said.

“You help so many people and it’s so wonderful, but the reality is they’re teaching me all the time. It’s honestly my dream job. I always want to be involved with autism. It’s a perfect balance of both things I love, communications and helping people.”

For more information about HarrysButtons, go to www.harrysbuttons.com. Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago’s website is www.eastersealschicago.org.≠

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Already outstanding in their fields Students gain invaluable work experience Aleszewicz interns at world-leader Fastenal When looking for an internship, junior Marta Aleszewicz sought a Winona company with an international presence to further her computer programming skills.

So when she was offered a position at Fastenal, North America’s largest fastener distributor and one of the world’s leading full-line industrial product suppliers, she accepted without hesitation. Aleszewicz said she knew she could gain great experience from a company with more than 2,600 locations around the world and a well-known and respected global reputation.

Aleszewicz — a computer science and mathematics major from Poland — began working for Fastenal in February 2013. That first semester, she worked 10 hours

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per week as a web front-end developer. Over the past summer her hours were increased to 40 a week. When her classes resumed last fall, she was able to reduce her hours back to a more manageable 15 hours per week.

Using Spring Framework, an open-source application framework for the Java platform, Aleszewicz spends her days coding along with a small team of six front-end web developers.

One of her recent projects, she said, has been refining the shopping cart and checkout process, making the procedure more intuitive for the user and the website easier to use.

“My work at Fastenal enhances my problem-solving and programming skills,” she said. “I have learned a lot from the past few months: Spring Framework, JavaScript, web optimization techniques, web services and SQL integration in applications, and basics of iOS. I also had a chance to practice Java language and design patterns that I knew from college classes.

“My team at Fastenal is enthusiastic and supportive, and my experience with the company has been very positive.”≠

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Criminal justice brought to life in wildlife refuge internship The Winona area is blessed with an abundance of natural areas and wildlife. It’s located in the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, a 261-mile stretch of land and water bordering Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Framed by steep wooded bluffs that rise above the lush Mississippi River valley, the refuge offers scenic beauty and fish and wildlife habitat unmatched in the heart of America.

It’s a wetland of international importance and a globally important bird area.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is charged with protecting this unique resource, which this fall provided Samantha Spinabella ’14 with an internship opportunity “in the field.”

Spinabella, a senior criminal justice major from Frisco, Texas, spent each Tuesday with Federal Wildlife Officer Rob Hirschboeck as he worked to enforce laws, rules and regulations within the refuge.

Samantha Spinabella worked with hunters at Weaver Landing.

“I was able to apply knowledge from my criminal justice classes to the type of work Rob does. We responded to calls such as broken-in homes on refuge property and complaints of what seemed like injured animals,” Spinabella says.

“When the start of waterfowl season began, I did bag checks, meaning I checked people’s boats to see how many birds were hunted and to make sure no legally protected birds were taken. This required communication with hunters and knowledge of birds. And I did a canoe trip to check for invasive plants in Buffalo City.”

On Thursdays, she worked in the refuge’s Winona district office, organizing and contacting volunteers.

“This internship was amazing,” Spinabella says. “I loved that I was able to be out in the field doing all sorts of interesting things. I learned a lot about communicating and thinking outside of the box to get tasks done.”≠

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Twins internship a home run It probably helped that Tyler Grabau ’14 had completed a successful work-study with the SMU Business Department.

It couldn’t have hurt his chances that he pulls in good grades and had worked for Fastenal, an international leader in fastener distribution, for a year and a half.

Grabau’s application for an internship with the Minnesota Twins undoubtedly stood out among the hundreds of other applicants.

But what really knocked it out of the ballpark was his true passion for baseball and his avid love for his home state’s ball team.

“I think the fact that I am a big fan probably showed during the interview,” he said, with a smirk.

Grabau — an accounting and sports management major — discovered he had gotten the internship in December. “I was really excited,” he said. “I wanted it really bad.”

The avid sports fan explained that he played football, baseball and basketball throughout high school. And he and his family have been attending Twins spring training frequently, starting when Grabau was in elementary school.

So, when he started taking sports management classes at Saint Mary’s, he quickly knew it was a career he would thoroughly enjoy.

Grabau has been traveling to Target Field in the Twin Cities two, sometimes three days per week, putting in between 16 and 24 hours per week during the spring semester. His internship will continue throughout the season,

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until the end of September (or October, if the Twins do well).

But, he quickly adds, the extra gas mileage is worth it.

The Wabasha native has enjoyed seeing all the work that goes on behind the scenes. “I have learned a lot about the operations of a major league baseball organization and the amount of work that takes place months before the team takes the field in early April, especially regarding ticket operations,” he said.

As a ticket office intern, he prints a batch report of 50 to 100 ticket orders, as well as tickets, receipts and corresponding envelopes. He must carefully fact-check the team, date, section, row and seat number as well as keep the various ticket sales straight: single game spring training orders, spring training season tickets, spring training group sales, regular season tickets and regular season opening day tickets. He’s assisted people over the phone, as well as face to face. Every ticket sale is like sharing a piece of the excitement.

Besides the many aspects of ticket sales and distribution, he is assisting with the All-Star Game, Home Run Derby, TwinsFest and other events at Target Field.

Grabau hopes his internship garners enough connections to earn him a spot in the big leagues — a full-time job.

He’s discovered many members of the full-time staff started their careers as interns. “I’ve always wanted to work for one of Minnesota’s professional sports organizations, especially the Minnesota Twins,” he said.≠

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Dancer given rare chance to work with Riverdance

Hannah Schwarze ’15 of St. Paul was able to high-step her way through Riverdance choreography this past fall as part of SMU’s London Study Abroad Program.

While the other students trained at Ireland’s Gaiety School of Acting, Schwarze — who has been Irish dancing for 18 years — was able to take two weeks of private lessons with Niamh O’Connor, dance director for Riverdance’s European tour. She also worked with Eileen Martin, who was a lead female dancer when Riverdance was running on Broadway.

Schwarze says she can’t remember a time when she wasn’t Irish dancing. Just having the opportunity to visit Ireland while studying abroad was a life-long dream come true. “I was nearly hyperventilating when we landed! It was the best trip of my life.”

When Schwarze was a sophomore, she created an individualized major, Dance: Emphasis in Irish Studies, in addition to her math major. “Since this is the only school in the country that offers Irish dance for credit, it’s the only one where a major like this is possible,” she said.

While the students were studying in London, Schwarze was told of her unique dance opportunity. “If you ask any of my friends on the trip, they’ll tell you I was telling everyone multiple times who I got to dance with. It was phenomenal. I even Skype-called my Mom to share the news. To be perfectly honest, I never really allowed myself to dream about dancing with Riverdance. When I found out I was doing actual Riverdance choreography, I freaked out a little bit.”

Schwarze said her nerves were quickly put to ease. “I learned an entire piece of choreography the first day with Niamh, and then I learned an entire second piece with Eileen the next day,” she said. “They looked at me at the end of each practice and said they were impressed by how quickly I had picked it up. I was glowing the rest of the day, when I wasn’t passed out from being so tired! I left every single rehearsal knowing I gave it my all, and it showed when I collapsed on my bed and couldn’t move for a while.

“Eileen told me it took some dancers months to learn what I picked up in a day. That comment will stick with me for the rest of my life.”

Because of her hard work, Schwarze was also allowed to wear a Riverdance costume and was even encouraged to dance with Riverdance in the future.

“I've even been invited to — if Riverdance tours through Minnesota again — call up the person in charge and tell them Eileen and Niamh suggest I try to get plugged into a few dances. This idea which has been higher than a dream for me is now a reality. How crazy is that?”

Schwarze’s excitement radiates through her words. “I loved every breathless second of it. I am so grateful I got this opportunity. I still have to remind myself that it really did happen. I didn't just imagine it. This experience has changed my life.”

Each year junior theatre majors travel to London for a required intensive semester of study and performance at the Tara Arts Studio Theatre in Earlsfield.

To see pictures and read more about the SMU theatre study abroad group’s semester in London, go to smumn-london.blogspot.com.≠

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Internships give psychology majors new career insights Recent field internships helped Saint Mary’s seniors Ellie Niedbala and Lexi Assimos focus their potential career paths in psychology.

Their experiences couldn’t have been more different.

Niedbala worked with local school children, while Assimos assisted adults undergoing drug treatment in Illinois.

Niedbala spent the past semester interning with Winona elementary schools, primarily Washington-Kosciusko.

Originally, she said she thought that school psychology was a possible vocation for her, particularly because of her love of children. But after working closely with a school psychologist for several weeks, Niedbala has decided to instead pursue a career in research.

Her internship included assisting with IQ or behavior tests, as well as counseling youth facing a variety of issues including self esteem, social skills, bullying, home issues and behavior disorders.

“I really respect that profession,” she said. “And it’s an amazing career, but I decided that I’m really more of an introvert and would rather be involved in research; I love reading and writing.” The Geneva, Ill., native has decided to

pursue a Ph.D. program at Texas Tech University in social and personality psychology to further study how people interact and what makes up their personalities.

Senior Lexi Assimos of Northbrook, Ill., interned this past summer at Arlington Center for Recovery in Arlington Heights, Ill., an outpatient drug treatment facility.

There, she observed and led group sessions, led education classes and assisted clients as her first experience with applied psychology.

“It was really eye-opening and helped me figure out what I am going to do with my life,” she said. “I’ve decided to go into forensics psychology. I have a criminal justice minor, and I would like to combine those two areas of study.

I am intrigued with the psychology behind why people do drugs.”

She plans to pursue a master’s degree in forensic psychology at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

“It’s a new field and I’m finding there is a lot of job opportunity. I did a ride along with a Northbrook police officer for class, and it felt comfortable. I belong in this field.”

As Assimos developed a relationship with the clients that she worked with last summer, she discovered that there is no stereotype of drug users. “Everybody has his/her own story,” she said, adding that there are a variety of factors that play a role in drug use including social groups, not having a strong sense of identity, and prior usage by family members.

The two have discovered that a degree in psychology can take many different directions. And both would recommend completing hands-on internships before graduation to gain valuable experience, or to solidify (or even change) career paths.

“Even though I decided not to go into counseling, I learned so much working in real-life situations every day,” Niedbala said.≠

Lexi Assimos ’14 and Ellie Niedbala ’14

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SPRING 2014

Aspiring police officer spending semester with Interpol Junior Colin Hennessy’s desire to help people started in grade school. Back then, he would play pretend fireman, chasing his dog with a water hose and spraying water into the open windows of his house.

His parents put a kink in the hose. “Needless to say, my firefighting days ended as abruptly as they started after my parents found out the kitchen and living room were soaking wet and the dog was hiding in house,” Hennessy said.

Little did the Hennessys know that childhood pretending would eventually lead their son to an internship with INTERPOL in Washington, D.C., and aspirations to become a police officer battling narcotics.

Hennessy, a criminal justice and law enforcement major from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is one of two students spending spring semester interning in Washington, through a partnership with the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars.

When Hennessy applied for the internship, he wasn’t sure where he would be working.

“About a month before I was set to leave for D.C., I received an e-mail that INTERPOL had looked over my information and wanted to offer me a position. I was so excited about this opportunity and it was difficult to contain myself,” he said. “I had just gotten offered a position with a

very prestigious federal investigations agency that assists law enforcement activities worldwide!”

Hennessy knows that getting experience with investigations is vital to his career. “Policing is about much more than just finding the bad guy and putting him or her behind bars,” he said. “Investigations are the major lifeblood of law enforcement agencies around the world. This is also a skill that is not acquired by reading it in a book but instead by getting your hands dirty and getting involved in the entirety of the process.”

Although he isn’t able to go into great detail about his work, Hennessy said interning in the counterterrorism division has allowed him to be involved at every level of international investigations. “I work directly with individuals from the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, ATF, Department of Defense, and the DEA just to name a few. I also get to interact and work with law enforcement officials from around the world. I am kept busy with many briefings, meetings, cases and other investigation-related activities.”

Following graduation, Hennessy hopes to enter into a police skills program and become a patrol officer in Plymouth, Minn. He would eventually like to become a Plymouth narcotics officer for the northwest corridor of Minneapolis.≠

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2014 RETIREES

Dr. Jim Towers Dr. Jim Towers has made a career of educating students and educating educators. He’s shared his passion for learning with students around the globe.

His first teaching job after college was at a high school in the Australian outback — the wayoutback. In fact, he remembers leaving the classroom one afternoon to investigate a loud noise outside, only to discover several kangaroos rummaging through the garbage bins for discarded food.

After graduate school, Dr. Towers again headed overseas, this time to Kuwait. “I taught in a private high school mainly for the embassy kids and oil people’s kids and sheiks’ kids,” he said. “It was a heck of an experience, living in an Islamic culture.”

When he returned to the United States, he took a job teaching in Illinois and eventually came to call Saint Mary’s home in 1988, when he was hired as the chair of the Education Department.

He took one leave of absence to help formulate a new university specifically for women in the United Arab Emirates. “That’s kind of an anomaly. It was one of the first ones to happen in the Middle East,” he said. “They needed someone to be the dean of the college of education and needed someone to start it up for a year. I helped put the curriculum together and got staff in place.”

Basically, Dr. Towers is a believer in lifelong learning and is happy to enable learning for students of any age in any location.

Dr. Towers said he hopes that through the years he’s instilled in his students the importance of continued intellectual curiosity. “I hope it was effective. Maybe they can do that same thing for their students,” he said. “I hope they left with skills I taught them that they utilized in their own teaching careers. I’ve tried to teach the importance of adaptability and flexibility and caring. You are teaching one student at time; they’re not a herd, they’re individuals.

“Few things are more important than education, not only for adolescents but also for adults in lifelong learning. That’s a staple in everyone’s life and it should be emphasized.”

Dr. Towers has a quick answer to what he’ll miss most during retirement: students. And a half a breath later: colleagues.

Going back in the classroom in 2005, getting out of administration and returning to his roots with teaching brought his career full circle.

“It’s a satisfaction but also a real rush for me

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Title: Education professor. (He previously held other administrative titles including chair in the School of the Education as well as dean and associate dean. He also served as Master of Arts in Instruction program director.)

Years at Saint Mary’s: 26 Plans for retirement: Dr. Towers has no immediate retirement plans. “I plan to let the world spin without me and see what comes later,” he said. An avid traveler, he does plan to spend the cold winter months in a warmer climate. “(Retirement) is the best job I’ve ever had,” he joked.

Proudest accomplishments: Dr. Towers worked in administration at SMU until returning to the classroom in 2005. During his tenure, he helped to create the Master of Arts in Instruction and was instrumental in creating and founding the Master of Education in Teaching and Learning degree at the university. He also wrote a book and published 50 articles in reference journals and magazines, testified in front of the Minnesota Legislature about outcomebased education, and served on the executive board of Minnesota Teacher Education Association.

to be in the classroom and watch the light bulbs start popping off,” he said. “You can see the learning in their eyes, and I’m going to miss that. I run into people now and then and it’s always good to see them. I don’t always remember their names but I do remember their faces, and now they’re grown up with kids and teaching jobs of their own.

They tell me they remember this or that about class and that’s always gratifying.”

Dr. Towers said he will also value the Saint Mary’s community. “They were a very supportive and cohesive group of people. That is part of the ambiance of the place; the people are very caring; they care about each other and they care about students.”≠

SPRING 2014

Dr. Jim Towers has taught at Saint Mary’s for 26 years.

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2014 RETIREES

Dr. Ting Ni Dr. Ting Ni’s remarkable story has inspired countless students throughout her tenure. (And it’s even suppressed a bit of whining by students who could otherwise be tempted to take their education for granted.)

Ni, a native of Tianjin, China, grew up during the tumultuous Cultural Revolution. For 10 years, between 1966 and 1976, schools were closed in China under Mao Zedong’s orders. And at 16, Ni was sent to a village to be “re-educated” by peasant labor. She was told she would spend the rest of her life working in this village.

She spent long days doing hard labor in the fields. “Peasants would work from dawn until it was dark when you couldn’t see anymore,” she said. But in the evening, she taught herself English by listening to a radio, thirsty for knowledge.

Prior to the Cultural Revolution, both of Ni’s parents were educators, and she grew up on a college campus surrounded by an academic environment. “Teaching was always something I wanted to do, even when I was really young,” she said. “My first dream was to go to college. The Cultural Revolution interrupted my dream, but that dream didn’t die.”

Her parents, labeled as counter-revolutionaries, were punished. Her father was sent to what Ni compares to a concentration camp, and her brother was sent to work in a dangerous coal mine thousands of miles away.

Yet her mother would send her used books, which were hard to come by as libraries were closed, and many books had been destroyed.

During this period, Ni heard about a national exam — administered by the government — that the young people of China could take in order to attend college. But Ni had to be recommended by her coworkers. Her mother sent gifts, towels, noodles and sugar as incentive to village officials so that she could be allowed to take the examinations.

Ni rode her bicycle five hours to take the exam, which was later declared invalid.

But in 1978, another exam was issued when the Chinese government reopened its colleges and universities. With only three days to study, Ni took the exam and was accepted.

“Students use me as a model,” she said. “I share my experiences with my students in class.

One of my students told me that whenever he felt tired, he thought of me and said, ‘I have no excuse to not study hard.’ I’m happy to be an inspirational force for students.”

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Title: Professor of history Years at Saint Mary’s: 17 Plans for retirement: To continue teaching U.S. history to college students in China in the summers, serve as a Chinese translator, volunteer, cook good food, exercise, bike, and travel (particularly to Europe). She is also considering learning a musical instrument.

Proudest accomplishments: Earning a Fulbright scholarship to come to America and then earning another Fulbright scholarship to return to China to teach.

Ni studied four years of world history at Nankai University at Tianjin and then earned her master’s degree in American history in 1984. “I became fascinated with American history,” she said.

“I had always wondered why the U.S. could make so much progress in such a short period of time.”

In 1986, she received a Fulbright Scholarship and traveled to Indiana University to study American history. She earned her doctoral degree in 1996 and was hired by SMU in 1997.

In 2004, Ni returned to China — again on a Fulbright Scholarship — to teach American history to young Chinese students. Her hope was to build a bridge between the two countries by educating young people about the true history not always found in textbooks.

“I benefitted greatly from studying U.S. history,” she said. “I push my students to think about bigger, grander subjects. I benefitted from both cultures. I see the advantage of education, and I hope my students appreciate the opportunity. If our students put energy and efforts into their work, they can be the best in their fields.”

Dr. Ni is most proud of her students’ achievements, listing alumni who have gone on to grad schools and law schools, students with whom she continues to stay in touch.

“It’s been a very rewarding experience, especially when students thank you after graduation. I want (my students) to remember me as a passionate teacher who wanted them to be successful and work hard and be productive and good citizens.”

In her retirement, Dr. Ni said she will most miss the interaction with students. “Teaching is something I am very passionate about,” she said.

“Being with students makes you feel young. Every day I want to get up to meet the challenge. I’ll have to find a way to keep that spirit in retirement.”≠

SPRING 2014

Dr. Ting Ni has taught at Saint Mary’s for 17 years.

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ALUMNI News

Alumni input needed to shape events, programming We are very blessed to have an amazing alumni network at Saint Mary’s.

This network continually inspires and energizes me in my new position as director of alumni relations.

I have been proudly affiliated with Saint Mary’s for the past 20 years. It was 20 years ago this past August when I moved into Saint Edward’s Hall as a freshman. My experiences at Saint Mary’s — first as an undergraduate student, then as a graduate student in the philanthropy and development program, as an alum, and as a staff member — have been life-changing.

The relationships that are built through this wonderful place are another testament to our powerful SMU network. Throughout my academic and professional career, Saint Mary’s has continually provided me with rewarding opportunities. I am excited to see these same opportunities continue for future generations of alumni of Saint Mary’s.

Robert Fischer ’97, M’06 Saint Mary’s is excitedly entering its second Saint Mary’s University century, and planning is well-underway for Director of Alumni Relations future projects — ensuring that Saint Mary’s remains innovative and responsive to the changing needs of students. The recently adopted Strategic Plan 2017 details the university’s bold vision and serves to guide and prioritize our work for the next three years.

Building upon the successes of the past, Saint Mary’s has built a longstanding reputation of providing excellent education with individualized attention. It’s the people at Saint Mary’s who help to make this place so special. When you think of your time at Saint Mary’s, you undoubtedly remember the strong sense of community and the supportive environment. The strength of this university depends on its community working together, pooling talent and resources, as it dreams and plans for the future. We invite you to partner with us on this exciting journey.

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Fisher named director of alumni relations Robert “Bob” Fisher ’97, M’06 was named director of alumni relations in December.

No stranger to Saint Mary’s, Fisher had served as associate director of alumni relations since 2011 and director of annual giving between 2000 and 2011. He is a recognizable face to many alumni because of his previous role as faculty advisor of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia music fraternity, and because of his responsibilities with Saint Mary’s Young Alumni Weekend, the Future Alumni Committee, phonathon, the Blue Angel and Gaslight musical variety shows, and the Oldie Moldie All-Stars.

Fisher earned his undergraduate degree in history and his master’s degree in philanthropy and development, both from Saint Mary’s University.

Prior to coming to Saint Mary’s, he served as associate director of the annual fund for Saint Catherine’s University.

“I really look forward to working with alumni to continue the momentum of growing alumni engagement and affinity for our beloved Saint Mary’s,” he said. “I invite all alums to join our exciting alumni network and to share ideas about how we can strengthen involvement and enhance our alma mater.”≠

Alumni Feedback

ALUMNI EVENT CALENDAR

In order for the alumni association to best support the university’s 40,000 alumni, we need to know your opinion on activities, programs and opportunities. We want to know what types of events you would like to attend, volunteer opportunities that interest you, and networking experiences that would be beneficial.

The ultimate goal of the alumni association is to build a highly engaged alumni base. We want all of you to be involved in Saint Mary’s, as we know it was an important part of your life. From the feedback we get through an upcoming alumni survey and online comments, we are going to build a Saint Mary’s University alumni relations program that fully engages and benefits our entire alumni network (undergraduate, certificate, graduate and doctoral alums). These opportunities will be in the form of events, volunteer opportunities, professional groups, networking experiences, professional development programs, alumni communications, affinity programming and opportunities, and more.

The future of Saint Mary’s is very bright, and I invite each of you to be part of it. Let each of us help shape the future of our Saint Mary’s.≠

MAY 17 Brother Charles Severin Celebration of Excellence Science Gala, Chicago 21 First-Generation Initiative S.O.A.R. Breakfast, Twin Cities

SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

JUNE 20-22 Reunion Weekend, Winona JULY 26 Minnesota Twins Alumni Gathering, Twin Cities AUGUST TBA Cubs game TBA Admission send-off events SEPTEMBER 12-14 Cardinal ‘M’ Club/Young Alumni Weekend OCTOBER 25 Lasallian Day of Service

SPRING 2014

A L U M NL Ie TNTeew Rs

2013 Alumni Legacy Dinner The 2013 Alumni Legacy Dinner occurred during Family weekend, sept. 2729, 2013. The fifth annual event celebrates alumni (of both saint Mary’s University and the College of saint Teresa), who have current students at saint Mary’s. Joining the event were Mark ’83, sarah, Laurie, emily ’12 and Rebecca Munns ’14.

Christian Brothers statue Dedication On Oct. 4, 2013 a new statue was dedicated on the winona campus. This statue, created

by Brother Jerome Cox ’60, is a way of celebrating the many Christian Brothers who have served saint Mary’s University.

The statue is a gift from Jan and Bernie wagnild, Robert ’49 and Frances (Perry CsT’51) skemp and members of the Class of 2013. Pictured are, from left: Brian Thomas ’13, Robert skemp ’49, Father James Notebaart, Frances (Perry CsT’51) skemp, Jan and Bernie wagnild, and Brother william.

Lasallian Day of service saint Mary’s University alumni and friends came together in the spirit of service for the fifth annual Lasallian Day of service on Oct. 26, 2013. More than 190 alumni and friends volunteered at sites in the Twin Cities, Chicago, winona, Milwaukee, saint Louis and Denver, including this group of Twin Cities alumni who volunteered at second Harvest in Golden Valley, Minn. This day of alumni service is dedicated to the Lasallian Catholic mission of saint Mary’s University.

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ALUMNI News

winona Alumni & Friends Christmas Gathering Alumni and friends of the winona area gathered on Dec. 7, 2013 at the Alverna Center on the saint Teresa Campus including Al smith, Barb Feiten, Phil Feiten ’52 and Tony Piscitiello ’69, M’82. Following the alumni event, guests were able to enjoy the Lessons and Carols choir concert in the Chapel of saint Mary of the Angels.

Twin Cities Alumni & Friends Christmas Gathering sarah McDonough ’11, Dr. Nelson Updaw and Autumn Updaw M’09 joined other Twin Cities-area alumni and friends at the Twin Cities Alumni and Friends Christmas Gathering on Dec. 14, 2013 at the saint Mary’s University Center in Minneapolis, Minn.

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washington D.C. Alumni & Friends Gathering

Florida Alumni & Friends Gathering

Pam (Zimmerman CsT’74) O’Keefe, Charlene Lawlor, Moriah Bricker, Nick Bravos ’13 and Jack Lawlor ’63 joined other alumni and friends at the washington, D.C. gathering Feb. 3 at smith and wollensky Restaurant.

Twenty-four alumni and friends gathered for a social and lunch, hosted by Jim ’69 and Marianne Coogan, Feb. 28 at The Club at Mediterra in Naples, Fla., including, from left: Dick Deitering ’63, Don Christl ’63, the Coogans, and Doug Johnson ’63.

SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

SPRING 2014

ALUMNI News

Basilica of saint Mary Alumni Reception The saint Mary’s University Chamber singers, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’shea, were the guest choir for the 5 p.m. Mass at the Basilica of saint Mary in Minneapolis on March 1.

Following Mass, the Office of Alumni Relations hosted an alumni and friends gathering in the undercroft of the Basilica. More than 80 alumni, friends and students gathered for this celebration including, from left: Mike Dougherty ’76 (trustee), Brother Robert smith, FsC ’76, Linda (Hines) Laak CsT’79 and Michael Laak ’77.

Los Angeles Alumni & Friends Gathering The saint Mary’s Chambers singers went on tour to southern California. In conjunction with the tour, the alumni association hosted an alumni event at the san Antonio winery in Los Angeles on March 4.

The winery’s operation manager is Dominic Menton, who is a current parent. A total of 42 alumni, students and prospective families participated including, from left: Anna Colling ’16, Veronica Raulin ’06, Katie sapper ’14, Gabe Verges ’16 and ed Gelhaus ’06.

san Diego Alumni & Friends Gathering As part of the Chamber singers Tour, the alumni association hosted a dessert reception after the choir concert on March 9.

The event took place at Our Lady of Grace Church school. Forty alumni, CsT alumnae and students enjoyed the concert and reception. As a special treat, all the alumni sang the final piece of the concert with the choir.

Pictured are, from left: Michelle Cullen ’10, Naomi Rath ’13, Bishop Robert Brom ’60, Joy Rockwell ’00, Fred Andrus ’59 and Peter weingart ’57.

WWW.SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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SPRING EVENT SPOTLIGHTS SCIENCE Anticipation for the first Brother Charles Severin Celebration of Excellence Gala is building. On May 17, alumni and friends of Saint Mary’s University will gather together in Chicago in celebration of the university’s longstanding legacy of excellence in the sciences.

Brother Charles Severin started teaching ecology at Saint Mary’s in 1934, using the river bottom, bluffs and trout streams of the area as his laboratory.

Nearly six decades of learners benefitted from his pioneering teaching methods, knowledge and dedication. It is fitting that this event — dedicated to advancing the sciences at Saint Mary’s — bears his name.

Building on the university’s rich history of scientific inquiry, stature and achievement, Saint Mary’s is embarking on a vision that centers on excellence. The university is excitedly meeting the challenge of ever-evolving science programming, which is branching into multidisciplinary areas of study. Saint Mary’s continues to forge partnerships within the world-class health services corridor in which our campuses are located, and our students are blessed to live and learn in a vast and diverse natural environment that provides unparalleled experiential educational opportunities.

More than 300 Saint Mary’s and College of Saint Teresa alumni, parents and friends will gather together at the Union League Club in Chicago with university leaders and the Brother Charles Severin Celebration of Excellence Committee. The evening will begin with Mass at Saint Peter’s Church. Upon arrival at the gala, attendees will have an opportunity to hear from our most valuable community, our students, as they present current findings from ongoing science research projects. During the ceremony, an honorary degree will be presented to Tom Skilling, chief meteorologist for WGN-TV for his significant contribution to the sciences, and the President’s Medal for Outstanding Merit will be awarded to Dr. Robert Dolehide ’47, an esteemed medical doctor who practiced in the Chicago area for more than 50 years. Additionally, talented Saint Mary’s student and faculty musicians will perform, and an amazing menu is planned.

Join us in preparing today’s science leaders for the demands of tomorrow’s world.

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SPRING 2014

Brother President William Mann, FSC cordially invites you to attend the inaugural

Brother Charles Severin

CELEBRATION

OF EXCELLENCE A BENEFIT GALA ADVANCING THE SCIENCES AS WE LAUNCH OUR SECOND CENTURY

Saturday, May 17, 2014 6 o’clock p.m.

Union League Club of Chicago 65 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago

$350 per person

GALA HIGHLIGHTS 5 o’clock p.m.

CELEBRATION MASS Saint Peter’s Church 110 West Madison Street Chicago

6 o’clock p.m.

STUDENT RESEARCH EXHIBIT AND COCKTAIL RECEPTION The Crystal Room, 5th floor Union League Club of Chicago Entertainment by Saint Mary’s University Jazz Combo led by Assistant Professor A. Eric Heukeshoven, M.S.

7 o’clock p.m.

DINNER AND PROGRAM Braised Short Rib of Beef & Sauteéd Shrimp • Sweet Polenta Ravioli (vegetarian option)

The Dining Room, 6th floor

($220 is tax-deductible) PROGRAM TO INCLUDE

RSVP requested by May 1, 2014.

Please register online at www.smumn.edu/sciencegala or call (507) 457– 6647 Formal attire requested Black tie optional Limited seating available

For more information visit: www.smumn.edu/sciencegala

Presentation of Honorary Doctorate Tom Skilling, WGN-TV Meteorologist Presentation of the Saint Mary’s Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit Dr. Robert Dolehide ’47 A vision for the future of the sciences at Saint Mary’s University DESSERT AND ENTERTAINMENT featuring a music performance by faculty members Professor Ned Kirk, D.M.A., piano and Assistant Professor Chun Chim (David) Leung, D.M.A., violin

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Reunion Weekend 2014 So many reasons to come back to campus for Reunion Weekend, June 20-22 Last year’s All-School Reunion and Centennial Weekend drew 1,000 people to campus for celebrating and reminiscing. In keeping with the momentum, this year’s Reunion Weekend events are designed to highlight anniversary years (those ending in 4 and 9), but alumni who connect with anniversary years are also invited. Teammates and classmates from surrounding graduation years can join the fun.

A bevy of activities are slated, some for outdoor adventurers, music lovers, party seekers, and even those looking to kick back and relax.

Enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds the Winona campus during bluff tours (via golf carts) or by participating in the Gilmore Gallop Walk/Run that winds through the lush wooded trails. Get out on the river with Brother John Grover FSC ’65, on canoes or get out on the greens during the annual golf outing at Bridges Golf Club. The annual picnic at Saint Mary’s Park — complete with inflatables for the kids — has become an annual tradition as weekend participants gather in the shadow of Saint Mary’s most historic buildings.

Take a tour of Winona hotspots via trolley. Head back to the College of Saint Teresa for lunch and a tour. Or spend some time perusing yearbooks in our hospitality room. Enjoy some musical blasts from the past during the piano sing-along. This is your time to “go back in time” and stir up old memories.

Or spend some time “in the now.” See how the Winona campus has changed and talk with current students and faculty.

The “Celebration of Scholarship” will include poster presentations from the research and scholarship of SMU students.

During the 50th reunion golden alumni reception and dinner Friday night, the classes of 1964, 1959 and 1954 are special honorees. And during Saturday’s alumni recognition ceremony, alumni awards will be presented. Following the ceremony, everyone is invited to get a taste of Saint Mary’s, a sampling of delicious ethnic foods that represent Saint Mary’s global presence as well as the diversity of our community. Food selections will include African, Jamaican and American cuisine.

New this year, families are invited to enjoy some popcorn and take in a movie at Figliulo Recital Hall. And Saturday night’s Reunion Weekend party is a time for alumni to reconnect and see how friends have changed but friendships haven’t. Check back to the website for more details about various class gatherings being planned throughout Winona. Saint Mary’s grads will paint the town RED.≠

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SCHEDULE Friday, June 20 9 to 10:30 a.m. — Check-in/registration 9 a.m. — Golf outing 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. — College of Saint Teresa luncheon 1 to 4:30 p.m. — Alumni Board annual meeting 6 p.m. — 50th reunion golden alumni reception and dinner 7:30 p.m. — Movie and popcorn at the Fig 9 p.m. — Class of 2004 gathering saturday, June 21 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. — Check-in/registration 8 to 10:30 a.m. — Continental breakfast 8:30 a.m. — Gilmore Gallop (with 8 a.m. registration) 9 -10 a.m. — Current and former Christian Brothers gathering 10 a.m. — Campus tour 10:30 a.m. — Bluff tour 10:30 a.m. — Winona Trolley tour 1:30 p.m. — Bluff tour 2 p.m. — Campus tour 2 p.m. — Winona Trolley tour 2 p.m. — Canoe trip 2 p.m. — Back to School faculty presentation 2:30 p.m. — Celebration of Scholarship (student work) 11:30 to 3 p.m. — Alumni and family picnic 4:30 p.m. — Alumni Mass 5:30 and 6 p.m. — Reception and alumni recognition ceremony 7 p.m. — “A Taste of Saint Mary’s” dinner 8:30 p.m. — Reunion Weekend Party 8:30 p.m. — Piano bar sunday, June 22 8 to 11 a.m. — Brunch 9:30 a.m. — Mass 11 a.m. — Checkout REUNION CLASS EVENTS On campus and around Winona, many reunion classes will have separate events. Check on the Reunion Weekend website for further details on these activities. In some cases, registration will be required. Class pictures will take place at these events.

To register or see a complete schedule, go to mysmumn.org/reunion14.

SPRING 2014

SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA

REUNION WEEKEND JUNE 20 – 22, 2014

WINONA, MINN.

Celebrating Reunion Class Years ending in 4 & 9!

Make plans to attend!

WWW.SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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ALUMNI News

Remicks honored with Heritage Award Couple pledges $8 million gift for first generation scholarships On April 12, 2014, Saint Mary’s honored donors at the annual Benefactor Recognition Dinner, “Celebrating a Tradition of Philanthropy.” This special recognition event for benefactors of Saint Mary’s giving circles and societies is an opportunity to publicly thank donors for their extraordinary generosity and support.

Jack and Mary Ann (Wera CST’64) Remick of Rochester, Minn., were presented with the Saint Mary’s University Heritage Award for Transformational Philanthropy. The Heritage Award recognizes special individuals whose exceptional philanthropy has significantly transformed the university and positioned Saint Mary’s for a second century of excellence in education.

In one demonstration of this extraordinary generosity, it was announced April 12 that the Remicks have committed $8 million to be used for scholarships. This gift — the largest single donation ever pledged to Saint Mary’s — will be directed to the university’s First Generation Initiative. Mary Ann currently serves as chair of the First Generation Initiative advisory board, and the Remicks are long-time supporters of FGI and its Countdown to College program, which prepares first generation high-schoolers for college. Their financial contributions to this program have helped many young students reach their academic dreams.

The Remicks are inspirational champions of education and long-time supporters of Saint Mary’s University. Jack and Mary Ann have served on the Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees for a combined 15 years and counting (Jack from 1999 to 2004 and Mary Ann beginning in 2004).

Their true passion lies in making education accessible and affordable for new generations of learners. The two formed the Saint Mary’s University Remick Fellows program in 1998, through which aspiring and current Catholic schoolteachers and administrators receive financial support and encouragement.

“It was Jack’s strong feeling that we started the Countdown to College program to help these kids — who come from challenging backgrounds — prepare for college, and they’ve worked really hard and they’ve done really well,”

Chuck ’66 and Kathie Joseph, Maureen and Lou ’58 Guillou and Merle wilberding ’66.

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Brother william presented the saint Mary’s University Heritage Award to John “Jack” and Mary Ann (wera CsT’64) Remick.

Mary Ann Remick said. “We really felt that we couldn’t let these kids down. We promised them an opportunity at a good college education. It has been a real joy to watch them become these very competent, capable seniors in high school who can now successfully move on to college.”

“The Heritage Award is only given to those who have exhibited ‘transformational philanthropy.’ There are no other words that could begin to define the work that the Remicks have done at Saint Mary’s. Their gifts ensure that bright young students with economic challenges, but also endless potential, be given the opportunity to excel academically,” Brother William, said. “This has been our ongoing dream that every student who has a desire to attend college have the opportunity to do so. We are so very grateful that the Remicks have shared in our educational vision.”

“It really is an honor and a privilege to be given the Heritage Award,” Mary Ann Remick added. “We aren’t alums, but we have come to really love and appreciate Saint Mary’s and the people who are there, and they’ve allowed us to help them dream.”≠

students from the Department of Theatre and Dance entertained an audience of more than 100 at the annual Benefactor Recognition Dinner.

SPRING 2014

SMM S14 47-51_Layout 1 5/13/14 2:53 PM Page 47

Sports News RECORDS: 6-5 MIAC, 24-9 Overall BRIEFLY: The Cardinals boasted a pair of First-Team All-MIAC selections — senior Lexi Assimos (Northbrook, Ill.) and sophomore Alex Peterson (Harmony, Minn.). … Assimos was named First-Team AllMIAC for the second year in a row. … The Cardinals, who made their first MIAC playoff appearance since 2010, won one and lost one and closed out the season with 24 wins, the second-most in program history. … The Cardinals reached the MIAC Playoff semifinals for the first time since 2008. … The Cardinals finished 16-4 on the road this season. … The Cardinals have won 20 or more matches seven times under coach Mike Lester. … Peterson recorded 10 or more kills 30 times in SMU’s 33 matches this season. … Peterson closed out the season with a team-leading 423 kills. …

Assimos closed out her final year in a Cardinal uniform with a single-season careerhigh 1,197 assists. …

Assimos, who has posted 1,000 or more assists twice in her four-year career, ranks No. 2 all-time with 3,263 career assists. … Assimos recorded 40 or more assists 11 times this season and 31 times in her collegiate career. … After recording 502 digs as a freshman a year ago, Lex Krogstad (Chicago) shattered that mark this year, posting a team-leading 559 digs — giving the sophomore libero 1,061 career digs in her two years in a Cardinal uniform. … Krogstad’s 559 digs this season rank No. 4 all-time. …

The Cardinals’ win over Concordia in their MIAC playoff opener was their 14th 3-0 sweep of the season. On the flip side, SMU was swept just three times this season. … The Cardinals’ loss to Macalester on Sept. 24 snapped their school recordtying 11-match winning streak. … SMU lost back-toback matches just once all season. … SMU finished with a 16-3 record in its five regular-season tournaments this season.

Peterson

Palma

VOLLEYBALL

FALL 2013

MEN’S SOCCER RECORDS: 1-9-0 MIAC, 4-13-1 Overall BRIEFLY: The Cardinals landed a pair of players on the All-MIAC honorablemention team in senior Zach Palma (Washburn, Wis.) and sophomore Fernando Camacho (Chicago). It was the second straight honorable-mention selection for Camacho. … Senior Midhat Mujic (Rochester, Minn.) closed out the season as the team’s offensive leader, owning team highs in assists (4) and points (10), while sharing the top spot in goals (3) with junior Matt Graber (Denver, Colo.) and freshman Ryan Geidner (Antioch, Ill.). … SMU’s 22 goals came from 14 different players, while 16 Cardinals recorded at least one point. … The Cardinals boasted four players who had multiplegoal games this season — including a school-record three multiple-goal scorers in a single game. Mujic, Graber, and freshman Nate Vandegrift (Lakeville, Minn.) all scored twice in SMU’s 11-

Blackwood

1 win over Presentation on Sept. 1, while Geidner tallied a pair of goals against Crown on Sept. 14. … Mujic also assisted on two of SMU’s 11 goals vs. Presentation, giving the senior SMU’s first sixpoint game in eight years. …

The Cardinals’ 11 goals were a school record. … Junior goalkeeper Joey Petrich (Elk River, Minn.) finished the season with a team-leading 82 saves. … Petrich recorded a 1.70 goals-against-average and a .752 save percentage with two shutouts. … Fellow goalkeeper, freshman Evan Claffy (Joliet, Ill.), stopped all seven Bethel shots he faced in recording his first collegiate shutout on Oct. 19. …

Twelve of the Cardinals’ 18 games were decided by one goal or less.

WOMEN’S SOCCER RECORDS: 0-11-0 MIAC, 0-18-0 Overall BRIEFLY: The Cardinals boasted a pair of players named to the All-MIAC honorable-mention team — sophomore Caroline Blackwood (Norwalk, Ohio) and freshman Emma Schaefer (Falcon Heights, Minn.). It was the second straight honorable-mention honor for Blackwood. … Senior Bethany Schmidt (Sparta, Wis.) closed out the season as the team’s offensive leader for the second year in a row, scoring three goals and adding an assist for seven points. … Blackwood and sophomore Kelli Harstad (Hampton, Minn.) finished second to Schmidt in goals with two each. … SMU’s seven assists this year came from seven different players.

Four SMU players — Harstad, Blackwood, Schaefer and senior Heidi Martin (Ankeny, Iowa) — scored their first collegiate goal this season. …

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SPORTS NEWS Junior goalkeeper Miranda Halling (Rochester, Minn.) recorded a season-high 15 saves in SMU’s season-finale against Macalester on Nov. 2. … Halling owned a teamhigh 89 saves and has recorded 10 or more saves in a game 12 times in her threeyear collegiate career. … The Cardinals’ three-goal effort against No. 16 Loras on Oct. 9 was their highest offensive output of the season.

CROSS COUNTRY

Haley

MIAC FINISH: Men 9th, Women 11th NCAA CENTRAL REGIONAL FINISH: Men 15th, Women 19th BRIEFLY: The Cardinals had a pair of All-MIAC and AllCentral Region performers in 2013, as juniors Aaron Haley

(Plainview, Minn.) and Katie Stolz (Forest Lake, Minn.) each earned conference and regional post-season honors. … Stoltz toured the sixkilometer women's course in a school-record time of 23:23 to finish 11th overall at the MIAC Championships on Nov. 2, then followed that up with another school-record effort of 23:14 to finish 23rd overall at the NCAA Central Regional on Nov. 16. …

Stolz also earned the MIAC’s prestigious Elite 22 honor — honoring the individual who has reached the pinnacle of competition at the conference championship level, while also achieving the highest academic standard among her peers. … Stolz broke the school’s 6K record three times in 2013. … Haley

also enjoyed a memorable junior year, repeating as an All-MIAC selection with a school-record 8K time of 25:59 to place 13th overall, then adding a 35th-place showing at the NCAA Central Regional with a time of 26:09. … Haley posted the SMU men’s top time in all six of the events he competed in this season. … Sophomore Allie Thiel (Burr Ridge, Ill.) was the second Cardinal woman across the finish line in both the MIAC and Central Regional meets.

GOLF MIAC FINISH: Men 10th, Women 11th BRIEFLY: Sophomores Blake Westerberg (Red Wing, Minn.) and Tim Wolford (continued on page 50)

Stolz earns Elite 22 Award Katie Stolz ’15 enjoyed a memorable 2013 Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championship on Nov. 5, as the Saint Mary’s University junior broke the school record — for the second time this year — and earned all-conference honors en route to an 11th-place individual finish.

That performance became even more memorable when the Cardinal junior received the MIAC’s prestigious Elite 22 Award for women’s cross country.

The MIAC Elite 22 Award recognizes the true essence of the student-athlete by honoring the individual who has reached the pinnacle of competition at the conference championship level in his or her sport, while also achieving the highest academic standard among his or her peers. Modeled after the NCAA Elite 89 Award, the MIAC Elite 22 Award is presented to the student-athlete with the highest grade point average (GPA) in each sport, who also meets similarly high, sport-specific athletic requirements.

At the MIAC Women's Cross Country Championship, the Cardinals’ leading runner completed the six-kilometer course in a school-record 23:23.9. Thanks to her top-15 finish, Stolz received MIAC All-Conference honors for the first time in her three-year collegiate career.

As good as the Saint Mary’s junior is on the trails, she’s been perfect in the classroom thus far, as the biology major boasts a 4.0 GPA. Stolz was also named to the MIAC Academic All-Conference team as a sophomore in cross country and outdoor track and field. She is a Forest Lake, Minn., native and a graduate of Hill-Murray High School.≠

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SPORTS NEWS

Rusthoven first African American men’s basketball head coach in MIAC For Jamison Rusthoven, the Saint Mary’s University men’s basketball team’s Dec. 4 Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference opener against Bethel was just another game on the Cardinals’ schedule.

But in reality, the Cardinals’ conference-opening showdown with the Royals was so much more than just another conference tilt.

When Rusthoven’s Cardinals took to the court at the SMU gym, it marked the first time in the league’s history that an African-American has walked the sidelines during a conference game as the head men’s basketball coach of an MIAC institution.

And that significance hasn’t escaped Rusthoven, a native of St. Paul, Minn.

“As I look at this significant moment in time for the Minnesota sports community, I can only think about one person who I know for sure will be smiling down on me — and that is the late, great Kwame McDonald,” said Rusthoven. “As a kid who grew up in the Midway Neighborhood, playing summer basketball at Dunning Field and attending St. Agnes High School, when we played games against St. Paul Central, Highland Park and at that time Cretin — Kwame was always there.”

McDonald, the long-time Minnesota civil rights activist, who organized community athletic opportunities for young people and was a pioneer in covering women's sports for local minority newspapers, was a fixture at high school and college events. McDonald, who passed away in October 2011, also wrote about sports for two Minneapolis newspapers: Insight News, and then the Minneapolis Spokesman-Recorder, in addition to his community columns for the St. Paul Pioneer Press.

“Kwame was, and still is, an icon among community leaders that truly supported and challenged so many of us city kids to be the best we could be,” Rusthoven said.

“This significant moment belongs to him, as well as to great people who have had important roles in developing the youth in our community like Jim Robinson, Dick Ghizoni, John Washington and Rene Pulley.

“This is truly a celebration of diversity for me, the Minnesota sports community, and especially Saint Mary’s University.”

“When Coach Rusthoven first stepped on our campus, it was clear that he was a great fit for this institution and this league,” said Nikki Fennern, Saint Mary’s director of athletics. “He is a leader at his core — on the basketball court, in the classroom, within the Saint Mary’s community, and in this historic moment for Saint Mary’s and the MIAC. “Saint Mary’s and the MIAC celebrate this moment in time, while continuing a commitment to serve and represent all populations. I am proud that we have a person such as Coach Rusthoven to be a leader in this

area in such a high-profile sport as men’s basketball. “ MIAC Executive Director Dan McKane echoed Fennern’s sentiments.

“The MIAC is committed to diversity across everything we do,” McKane said. “Our membership has steadily increased diversity among our student-athletes over the past 15 years. The hiring of Coach Rusthoven is a great step toward diversifying our coaching staff as well.

“Saint Mary’s should be proud of the hire,” added McKane. “Rusthoven brings numerous outstanding qualities to his new position. We're excited to have him coaching in the MIAC.” All but three years of Rusthoven’s career have been in coaching Minnesota basketball — with stops that include Osseo and Minneapolis Southwest high schools, and Hamline University.

And for Rusthoven to fill one of only 11 men’s basketball head coaching positions in the MIAC — one of the top leagues in the nation, and in a state known for its basketball — is only fitting.

“I have coached with and against some of the best coaches in Minnesota at all levels — many already in the Minnesota Basketball Hall of Fame,” said Rusthoven. “So to be forever etched into this unique part of Minnesota basketball history is truly an honor.”≠

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SPORTS NEWS (Maple Grove, Minn.) closed out the season as the Cardinal men’s low scorers, averaging 78.7 and 79.1. … Wolford carded the Cardinals’ low round of the season — twice — shooting a three-over-par 75 at the Cardinal Open on Sept. 5, then matching that mark during the final round of the season-ending MIAC Championships on Oct. 7. …

Westerberg carded a team-best eight rounds in the 70s, highlighted by four season-best rounds of 77. … Thomas Garside (Vadnais Heights, Minn.) turned in the shot of the season in a dual against Carleton on Sept. 22, recording his first-ever hole-inone, acing the 170-yard 17th hole at Willinger’s Golf Course in Northfield, Minn. …

Freshman Connor Brandt (Woodbury, Minn.) carded a collegiate-best six-over 77 at the Mac/Mary Dual on Aug. 30 at The Jewel GC. … SMU shot a season-best 319 at the Cardinal Open on Sept. 5. …

Kelsey Stenzel (Wabasha, Minn.) closed out her freshman season as the Cardinal women’s scoring leader, averaging 99.14, with fellow freshman Kortney Wobbe (Wabasha, Minn.) close behind at 99.22. … Wobbe turned in the Cardinals’ best round of the season with a 91 at the Wartburg Invitational on Sept.

7. … Sophomore Jennie Marx (Austin, Minn.) recorded a career-best 92 during the third round of the MIAC Championships. … Freshman Madison Gately (Glenview, Ill.) posted her collegiate-best round of 94 at the Viterbo Invitational on Sept. 14, while freshman Kelsey Stenzel (Wabasha, Minn.) added a career-best 95 in SMU’s dual against Bethany Lutheran on Sept. 5. … The Cardinal women recorded their best round of the season, 389, during the final round of the 54-hole MIAC Championships.≠

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Two great reasons to Sept. 12-14…

Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend The Cardinal ‘M’ Club is looking forward to celebrating an exciting 2013-2014 athletic season at its annual Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend on Sept. 12-14 — the same weekend as Young Alumni Weekend.

Friday night’s Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony will kick off the weekend’s events.

The Cardinal ‘M’ Club, along with the Alumni Association, will induct new members into the Sports Hall of Fame. The ceremony will also recognize SMU’s 2013-2014 award-winners, Outstanding Male and Female Athletes and Outstanding Scholar Athletes. Following the ceremony will be an on-campus reception for hall of fame inductees, along with family and friends.

Saturday’s activities include the annual golf tournament and dinner at Cedar Valley Golf Course and an alumni and friends evening social downtown. The ‘M’ Club committee advises people to sign up early for the golf tournament as the popular event fills quickly.

On Sunday, several alumni games and events will be held on campus.

“Each year the athletic department, the university, and our alumni look forward to ‘M’ Club Weekend,” Athletic Director Nikki Fennern said. “It is a great chance to celebrate the 2013-14 athletic year, celebrate our student-athlete award winners, and honor our hall of fame inductees. In addition, we look forward to the opportunities to reconnect with our alumni during the awards ceremony, golf outing, alumni games and other activities. It is going to be a great weekend.”

SPRING 2014

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SPORTS NEWS

Golfers line up for the annual Cardinal ‘M’ Club golf tournament.

Volleyball alumni returned to campus and enjoyed a game in the SMU gymnasium.

come back to campus Young Alumni Weekend Undergraduates from the past decade get their own time to reconnect during Young Alumni Weekend.

Once again this year, the weekend will include opportunities to catch up with favorite faculty and staff, enjoy live music and a barbecue on the plaza, race through the picturesque bluffs during the Cardinal Dash, and converge downtown Winona for a night of spirited fun.

And, as it coincides with Cardinal ‘M’ Club weekend, alumni have the opportunity to cheer on Cardinal athletics, enjoy a golf game or even play a game or two with your alumni teammates. The campus will be in full swing with a variety of fall activities.

Last year about 170 young alumni enjoyed the weekend events. Watch for more details about how to register; catch up with the friends you haven’t seen for a while, and return to the spot where all the memories happened.≠

Young alumni and current students enjoyed live music and a barbecue on the plaza (above) and raced through the bluffs during the Cardinal Dash (left).

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CLASS NOTES

Who’s where, doing what...

1940s Brother Terence McLaughlin ’44, Memphis, Tenn., received the Bishop Carroll T. Dozier Award for Peace and Justice from Christian Brothers University in November. This honor, named for the first bishop of the Diocese of Memphis, recognizes Brother Terence’s courageous action in integrating Christian Brothers High School in 1963. He was also honored for more than seven decades of service as a Christian, a Brother and a pioneering educator.

Brother Terence also received an honorary doctorate from Saint Mary’s University during its 2013 Founder’s Day.

Thomas Meagher ’53, Burr Ridge, Ill., serves on the board of directors of Catholic Charities and two national companies.

Brother Paul French, FSC ’55, Chicago, retired from being a professor at Lewis University.

Dr. Tom O’Farrell ’58, Boulder City, Nev., co-authored a chapter in the recently published book Ecological Causal Assessment with Dr. Glenn Suter of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, regarding the decline in the endangered San Joaquin kit fox population on the Elk Hills Naval Petroleum Reserve in California.

1960s Dr. Robert Dolehide ’47, Darien, Ill., has retired from the medical practice he founded in Morgan Park after more than 50 years of helping people in the local community.

Msgr. Roy Literski ’49, Winona, celebrated the 60th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on Dec. 19, 2013.

Dr. Patric Hendershott ’61, Sahuarita, Ariz., joined DePaul University’s Institute for Housing Studies as a senior research fellow.

Arthur Kusler ’62, Bloomfield, Mich., is the president and

owner of First Real Estate Services, LLC.

skills to help parties privately mediate their disputes.

Brother Michael Flaherty, FSC ’63, Browning, Mont., relocated and is serving as a volunteer at the De La Salle Blackfeet School.

Thomas Gudaitis ’71, Brooklyn Park, Minn., recently completed his MBA with highest honors from Globe University School of Business.

James Stoll ’64, Humble, Texas, rode 178 miles on a two-day bike ride to Galveston and back.

It benefitted the Galveston Bay Foundation. This was his fourth year riding the trek, and he plans on doing it again next year.

1970s Judge Art Boylan ’71, Mahtomedi, Minn., retired on Jan. 8, 2014 as chief magistrate judge for the District of Minnesota. Judge Boylan spent 17 years on the federal bench, and will always be known as the judge who helped save the 2011 season for the National Football League. The NFL settlement, however, was just one of the many high-profile cases he brought to resolution. He will continue to apply his resolution

Dr. Robert Krupp ’51, Bradenton, Fla., is the president and owner of the publishing company Simple Science Books, LLC., which produces children’s picture books. He also finished his second book in the Laura and Grandpa – Discovering Science Together series, published in August 2013.

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Joe Altstatt ’72, Lino Lakes, Minn., spent February in St. Petersburg, Fla. enjoying the sunshine and company of friends Norma and Jack Victory ’72 and Bob Wendt ’72. His business, Western Spring Manufacturing, is going very well, especially with the help of his sons.

Rev. Thomas Heck ’72, Cape Coral, Fla., transferred from St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Port Charlotte, Fla. to St. Therese Parish in N. Fort Myers, Fla., in June 2013.

Kathleen (Bishop ’74) Walker, Grinnell, Iowa, is now the vice president of finance and treasurer of Grinnell College after six years as assistant vice president of finance.

1950s

Rev. Jim McDonough, OP ’52, Austin, Texas, serves both Emmaus Catholic Parish and Queen of Angels Chapel on weekends in Austin. During the week, he teaches high school at St. Michael’s Catholic Academy.

He would like to thank the congregation of Queen of Angels Chapel who share with him their real commitment of community, living the life of Jesus.

Joe Higgins ’71, Dingle, Ireland, was an elected member of the Irish parliament and a representative to Ireland in the European Union. He continues as one of the most respected members of the Irish government.

Patrick Salvi ’75, Chicago, was named one of the Top 10 Illinois Super Lawyers for 2014, out of more than 90,000 lawyers in the state.

Dr. Jerry Workman ’76, M’80, Danbury, Conn., was appointed executive vice president of engineering by Unity Scientific, LLC. In September, former Saint Mary’s Trustee Howard Toner ’66 (center) of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., had an opportunity to visit Tangaza College in Nairobi before heading out on a safari excursion. He spent a day at Saint Mary’s affiliates, Christ the Teacher Institute for Education and the Maryknoll Institute of African Studies, where he met with administrators Brother Paulos Welday Mesmer ’90, M’91 (right) and Father Michael Kirwen (left), received a tour of facilities and spoke with current students. “Everyone just really loves the place,” he said. “The chapel and the libraries are very impressive, and the work that Father Kirwen and Brother Paulos are doing and have done is truly amazing. Both of them should be proud; their work in Nairobi is changing lives.”

Rev. John Berg ’79, Cuba City, Wis., is the coordinator of public services at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Elton S. Karrmann Library. He wrote a chapter in the GermanBohemian Heritage Society’s recently published anthology Heimatbrief: Stories of GermanBohemians.

SPRING 2014

CLASS NOTES

1980s Gerald Karel ’80, Maplewood, Minn., is working for 3M Company as a technical director.

Kevin Moriarty ’80, Hagerstown, Md., purchased Two Paws Up!, a specialty store offering pet supplies in historic downtown Frederick, Md. He is enjoying serving companion and service animals with the assistance of his store mascot dogs, Mike, Roger and Rose.

Steve Marble ’81, Waseca, Minn., completed the ING New York City Marathon. The 2013 NYC marathon was the world’s largest marathon with 50,266 finishers. It was Steve’s 23rd marathon overall.

Carey (Miller ’81) Marciniak, Mundelein, Ill., is a secondgrade teacher and assistant principal at St. Mary of the Annunciation School.

Judge Teresa (Schulz ’81) Warner, White Bear Lake, Minn., presided over the Saint Mary’s annual mock trial put on by students, where she was able to interact with students interested in a legal profession.

Maeve Cashman ’82, Excelsior, Minn., is the president and CEO of the investment company, Riverside Partner.

Raymond Hoffman ’83, Silver Springs, Md., was named director of the division of mental

health and substance abuse at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis.

Wally Wysopal ’83, Fridley, Minn., was selected by the Fridley City Council to be the next city manager.

Kristine (Bork ’85) Beck, Fountain City, Wis., is currently the director of Kinstone Academy of Applied Perm-a-culture.

Deborah (Crawford) Beach ’86, M’00, Winona, began a new endeavor this past year as St. Felix Elementary School’s principal.

Anne (Eiden ’86) Boeckman, Blaine, Minn., started a new job last year as an accountant for Wilkerson Gothman.

Elizabeth (Doody ’87) Gorman, Orland Park, Ill., has been selected as a member of the inaugural class for induction into Mother McAuley High School’s McAuley Hall of Honor.

1990s Paul McGuire ’90, Cottage Grove, Minn., is the lead business intelligence analyst for distribution and medical services at Patterson Companies.

Marcella (Doyle ’90) Piller, Dixon, Ill., was hired by Sauk Valley Bank to be a new retail banking operations manager.

Refer a student This is your opportunity to spread the word about Saint Mary’s to prospective students.

Do you know someone who would be a great addition to our undergraduate or graduate campuses? A representative from our Office of Admission would be glad to get them on our contact list. E-mail admission@smumn.edu or call 800-635-5987.

Children of alumni of Saint Mary’s or the College of Saint Teresa are eligible for a $1,000 scholarship for each parent alum. Please indicate the parent/alum name and class year when registering online in the “additional comments” section. There is no application fee to apply online at www.smumn.edu/ undergraduate-home/admission/contact-us/ request-for-more-information.≠

M = Master’s Degree; C = Certificate; S = Specialist and D = Doctorate

Tony Piscitiello ’69, M’82, senior advancement director at Saint Mary’s, and Ray Kelly, commissioner of the police department of New York City, joined hundreds of volunteers in serving Thanksgiving dinner to the homeless at the Bowery Mission in New York City.

Brian Strub ’91, New Brighton, Minn., was sworn into office, and joined the City Council of New Brighton on Jan. 6, 2014.

Strub was elected at-large and will serve a four-year term through December 2017.

Kyle Yeske ’92, Batavia, Ill., was promoted to regional sales vice president for Associated Materials, Inc. Daniel Storlien ’93, Bloomington, Minn., is a social studies teacher and the head boys’ soccer coach at Bloomington Jefferson High School, and he is one of the top coaches for the Minnesota Thunder Academy.

Michelle Rosen M’96, C’05, Sherburn, Minn., has been chosen as the 2014 National Outstanding Assistant Principal in Minnesota by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association. She was singled out for the honor from about 100 assistant elementary principals in the state.

Ryan Tanke ’96, Mound, Minn., was promoted to senior vice president and chief revenue officer for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx. In this new role he will be responsible for all of the organization’s oversight of its corporate partnerships, ticket sales and premium seating.

Mary Waters-Cryer M’93, C’97, Bloomington, Minn., was hired by the Eden Prairie School District as the interim director of student-related services.

Brian Mann M’97, Maple Grove, Minn., was named the new principal at ChamplinBrooklyn Park Academy.

Chris Gogolewski ’94, Austin, Minn., was hired to be the new head baseball coach at Austin High School.

Dr. Jami Hughes ’98, Eagan, Minn., is an executive director, licensed psychologist and behavior analyst at Alliant Behavioral Pediatrics.

Hal Hoversten ’96, Eatonville, Wash., is the contract specialist for Mount Rainier National Park.

Dr. Aaron Johnson ’96, Winona, is the product development engineer at Ticona.

Jennifer (Thibedeau ’96) Redman, Mounds View, Minn., has been a fourth-grade teacher at the American International School Dhaka in Bangladesh for the past three years. This past fall, she and her family moved to Africa to teach at the American International School Lusaka, in Zambia.

Dr. Glenn Klaphake C’98, D’00, Princeton, Minn., was hired to be the new director for New Century Academy.

Lloyd Wurm M’98, C’00, Hudson, Wis., is one of seven individuals who have been inducted into the North Dakota State University Bison Athletic Hall of Fame.

Armando Camacho M’99, C’00, St. Paul, Minn., was named the president and CEO of the nonprofit Opportunity Partners.

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CLASS NOTES Ann Gaasch M’99, Crystal, Minn., was named executive director for Family Wise, a Twin Cities-based nonprofit that supports families who are in crisis by providing direct services and encouragement.

Katie Groth M’99, S’05, St. Paul, Minn., took a job as a software product analyst in special education for Infinite Campus.

2000-2006 Jenny Carrillo M’00 and Laura Alexander M’04, Tucson, Ariz., merged their individual practices and considerable experience into the firm, Alexander/Carrillo Consulting. In 2010 the awardwinning consulting firm expanded their staff to serve an increasing number of clients.

Sister Kathy Lange, SCSC M’00, Green Bay, Wis., is a pastoral associate at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. She is on the leadership team for the Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross.

Betsy Liotus M’00, Madison, Wis., was hired by the Raue Center for the Arts as the nonprofit’s director of institutional giving.

Lori Arndt C’01, St. Paul, Minn., began a new career as the principal for Nerstrand Elementary School.

Jennifer Backer M’01, C’11, Chatfield, Minn., joined the Mabel-Canton School District as its superintendent.

Linnie Ditsworth M’01, Rock Rapids, Iowa, was hired by Central Lyon School as a thirdgrade teacher.

Amy Hiedeman M’01, Porter, Minn., was hired by Stevens Elementary to serve as the principal.

Dr. Lisa Larson D’01, Osseo, Minn., was appointed by the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board of Trustees to serve as the acting president of North Hennepin Community College.

Cheryl Stuhr M’01, Arlington, Tex., is the chief executive officer of Organo Gold.

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Some alums from the class of 1991 gathered at Gibson’s in Chicago for a mini-reunion. Getting together were, from left: back, Kathleen Hartrich McKnight, Bridgid Reed Kyle, Bridget Layer Sampair, Suzanne Lunny Schoonmaker; front, Susan Cahill Sullivan, Peggy O’Neill Cummings and Molly Malloy Stucker.

Bill Tschida M’01, Watertown, Minn., was hired by the Farmington School District as its new assistant principal and activities director.

the manager for research and scientific affairs at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in Arlington Heights, Ill.

Michele Weiss M’01, New Richmond, Wis., began a new position as a special educator at Hillside Elementary.

Joshua Wolever ’03, Des Moines, Iowa, graduated with a Juris Doctor degree with honors from Drake Law School in May 2013.

Janey Blanchard C’02, C’08, Park Rapids, Minn., was the new face in the principal’s office this year at the Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School.

Julie (Decker ’03) Zimmerman, Stamford, Conn., took a new position as an autistic spectrum disorder teacher for Stamford Public Schools.

Matthew Curry ’02, Pierz, Minn., began a new career as a physical education teacher for the Onamia School District.

Benjamin Altstatt ’04, Lino Lakes, Minn., is the vice president of Western Spring Manufacturing.

Dave Endicott M’03, C’09, C’10, S’10, Pequot Lakes, Minn., was chosen as superintendent for the WalkerHackensack-Akeley Schools.

Tony Cicalello ’04, St. Paul, Minn., was named varsity head baseball coach at Saint Thomas Academy.

Deb Kammerland M’03, Winthrop, Minn., was hired as a full-time teacher at GibbonFairfax-Winthrop where she will be teaching foods, life essentials, personal finance, health occupations, interior design, and child development.

Catherine (Crotty ’03) Sommers, Schaumberg, Ill., is

Katie Cooney M’04, Minneapolis, is the president and consultant for Sweet TDN Go, LLC. Dr. Kimberlee Herr M’04, Woodbury, Minn., was hired as the instructional design consultant for Buffalo Wild Wings.

Lenny Hofmann ’04, Minneapolis, was named man-

ager of player development for the United States Hockey League.

Amy Johns M’04, Jordan, Minn., is employed by the Jordan Public School District #717 as a second-grade teacher.

Sarah (Marek ’04, M’07) Landman, Naples, Fla., is happy to say her web series, OffAwful, was honored at the LA Webseries Festival with two outstanding actor awards. Sarah is the executive producer, creator and star of the series. The LA Webseries Festival is the largest and oldest webseries festival in the country. To view Sarah’s series and learn more visit her website at www.offawful.com.

Brenda Wright M’04, Newport, Minn., was recognized as the 2013 Distinguished Teacher at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. The recognition was part of the fall commencement ceremonies. As the distinguished teacher, she provided the keynote address to the graduates.

Dan Wrobleski M’04, Maple Grove, Minn., is serving as interim principal at Columbia Heights High School.

SPRING 2014

CLASS NOTES Jason Arneson M’05, Rochester, Minn., was chosen as the Post-Bulletin’s October Teacher of the Month.

Chris Ball M’05, Woodbury, Minn., works for Metro Anesthesia Care Services as a certified registered nurse anesthetist.

Veronica Cantu ’05 (Sr. Rose Veronica of Jesus’, LSP), St. Paul, Minn., made Religious Profession of Perpetual Vows as a Little Sister of the Poor. The celebration was held at their motherhouse in La Tour SaintJoseph, Saint Pern, France.

Christina Hester C’05, Minneapolis, was hired by the Robbinsdale Area Schools to serve the district as Cooper High School’s principal.

Benjamin Leist ’05, West Allis, Wis., is currently a third-year medical student at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

Pete Nusbaum M’05, C’06, C’10, Roberts, Wis., was hired as the new Ellsworth Middle School principal.

Dylan Walker ’05, Cambridge, Minn., is teaching English and reading at the Ogilvie High School.

Lori Walz M’05, La Crescent, Minn., was hired as the new principal at Crucifixion Elementary School.

Michael Boland ’06, DeKalb, Ill., is the head soccer recruiting coach for the National Collegiate Scouting Association.

Robin Brown M’06, Austin, Minn., was the December artist of the month at the Red Rock Center for the Arts in Fairmont, Minn. She was honored at an open house where her show, titled “Unfinished Business,” was featured.

Mary Gronholm ’06, Laurel, Md., was recently appointed as eighth-grade homeroom teacher at Sisters Academy of Baltimore.

Annie Harala ’06, Duluth, Minn., was recently elected as the newest at-large member of the Duluth School Board.

Angela LaBounty M’06, St. Paul, Minn., was chosen to be

the new assistant principal at Maplewood Middle School.

Lisa Reichelt C’06, Lakeville, Minn., was hired by Akin Road Elementary School to be its new principal.

Dr. Charles Rick D’06, Cambridge, Minn., was selected to be the Houston School District’s new interim superintendent.

Cheryl Stigney M’06, Jackson, Minn., is director of social services for Good Samaritan SocietyJackson.

2007-2009 Steven Arenz ’07, Dallas, Tex., joined Apple, Inc. this past summer where he will be working on computing for the company.

Amy Davison M’07, Eden Prairie, Minn., joined Clearwater Middle School as their new seventh-grade math teacher.

Ryan Luft C’07, Staples, Minn., was named the new principal at Foley High School.

Amy Maki C’07, Virginia, Minn., was hired by the Mesabi East School District to serve as their elementary school principal.

Joe McCarthy M’07, Prior Lake, Minn., has been teaching physical education at Meadow Elementary since 2004. He was named the 2012 Minnesota Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year and awarded the 2012 Volunteer Impact Award from the American Heart Association. He was also elected as vice president for sport and physical education for Central District American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.

Eric Olmscheid M’07, Des Moines, Iowa, is the director of programming and education for Des Moines Performing Arts.

Prior to working in Des Moines, he was employed by the Ordway Center for Performing Arts in St. Paul.

Katherine Patton M’07, Mendota Heights, Minn., was hired as a literacy coach by the University of Minnesota – Center for Reading Research.

Winona Bishop John Quinn joins alumni inducted into the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre including from left: Msgr. Richard M. Colletti ’74, Msgr. Thomas P. Melvin ’96, Msgr. R. Paul Heiting ’78, Msgr. Gerald Mahon ’67, and Msgr.

Thomas E. Cook ’93.

Brother William, alumni inducted into the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre Bishop John Quinn of the Winona Diocese joined Saint Mary’s alumni inducted into the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem during an investiture ceremony Sept. 22 in Des Moines, Iowa.

Brother William was also approved as a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.

The Order consists primarily of laypersons, Knights and Ladies, and clergy who have done meritorious work for the Church; led good Catholic lives; and are approved for nomination by their Bishop. The Order is directed by the Grand Magisterium in Rome and is the only lay institution of the Vatican State charged with the task of providing for the needs of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and for all the activities and initiatives which are necessary to support the Christian presence in the Holy Land.≠ Brother William, right, with Msgr.

Melvin and Bishop Quinn after the Investiture ceremony.

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CLASS NOTES Rebecca Warpula M’07, Litchfield, Minn., was selected to fill the role of Litchfield Community Education director.

Michelle DeVries M’08, St. Augusta, Minn., is the new English teacher at ClearbrookGonvick High School.

Lindsay Dickson ’08, Minneapolis, accepted a position with Minnesota Public Radio. She will join their major gifts team as the new leadership and president’s circle manager.

Jessica Dircks M’08, Clearwater, Minn., was hired last year to take on one of Annandale’s second-grade sections.

Father Jason Kern ’08, Mapleton, Minn., was welcomed as the newest priest by the Tri-City Parish community.

Dr. Mary Catherine Fox ’75, above center, with Daniel and Sarah Jane (Engle ’07) Maher.

Roberta Kochevar M’08, Lakeville, Minn., was hired as the director of diagnostic and therapy services for North Memorial Medical Center.

Saint Mary’s connections made at Huether Conference

Erin (Hendricks ’08) McCoy, St. Paul, Minn., is now the graduate programs advisor for the School of Business at Hamline University.

Valerie Meschke ’08, Woodbury, Minn., is the staff assistant and first lieutenant executive officer for education, training and logistics with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Elizabeth Benson M’09, Delano, Minn., along with Deborah Peterson and Stacie Nelson, fulfilled their dreams by opening Solace, a counseling center with the aim to provide comfort to body, mind and soul.

Sarah Berndt M’09, Rollingstone, Minn., started her first year teaching fourth grade at Lewiston-Altura Elementary School.

Samantha (Kirsch ’09) Johnston, St. Paul, Minn., was hired to be the music teacher at Community of Saints Regional Catholic School.

Robin Layer ’09, Cottage Grove, Minn., joined Century College as the assistant director of human resources.

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Three members of the extended Saint Mary’s community were honored by the Christian Brothers last fall.

At the Huether Lasallian Conference in New Orleans, Sarah Jane (Engle ’07) Maher and her husband Daniel Maher received the Brother Chris Bassen Service award, which recognizes Lasallian Volunteer alumni who have continued a life of service.

The Mahers currently serve at De La Salle North Catholic High School in Portland, Ore., where, in order to keep the Lasallian mission strong, they helped found a unique community of Lasallian Volunteers where lay people reside without the traditional presence of Brothers. They work at the Lasallian high school in Portland with an underprivileged student body, living the mission each day.

Also at the Huether Lasallian Conference, Dr. Mary Catherine Fox ’75, professor of interdisciplinary studies, was honored with the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award by the Midwest District of the De La Salle Christian Brothers. The annual award honors educators who exemplify the ideals of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, patron of Christian teachers of youth. The award is sponsored by the Lasallian Region of North America, in the name of all Lasallians of the RELAN region.

Previously, at Saint Mary’s 2012 Founder’s Day convocation, Dr. Fox was the recipient of the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award on behalf of the university.

Dr. Fox has served Saint Mary’s University and the mission of Lasallian education for 24 years, as dean of the School of Business and Social Sciences, vice president for university relations, and as a member of the faculty since 2001.

Brother Larry Humphrey, associate vice president for mission, noted that the theme of this year’s Huether Conference, “Meaningful Instruction: Living Lasallian Pedagogy,” was “strikingly personified in the person of Dr. Mary Fox. She gives life to the term Lasallian pedagogy, and touches the hearts and minds of students in ways that matter for them today and forever.”≠

SPRING 2014

CLASS NOTES Dr. Maria (Borgerson ’09) Nolte, Sioux Falls, S.D., is a new resident for the Center for Family Medicine in their Family Medicine Residency Program.

Michael Marben M’09, Apple Valley, Minn., is serving as the director of the Minnesota Department of Commerce’s fraud bureau. The 23-year veteran of the city’s police force will be the chief law enforcement officer for the bureau that handles insurance fraud and other white-collar criminal investigations.

Shannon Rosenthal M’09, Eagan, Minn., works for Tailwind Voice and Data as their information technology project manager.

Mellissa Solin M’09, Stillwater, Minn., was hired as a new marketing manager for EcoWater.

2010+ Kelly Elkin M’10, Plymouth, Minn., has been the senior vice president for non-profit banking at Minnesota Bank & Trust since 2011.

Lucas Kaplan ’10, Windom, Minn., relocated back to Minnesota from Alaska and is teaching for the Heron LakeOkabena school district.

Joseph Marchel ’10, Minnetonka, Minn., was hired

by United Health Group as their vendor manager.

Amy Oliver C’10, Otsego, Minn., is serving at Monroe Elementary School as the new principal.

Bernadette Raspante ’10, Chicago, teaches theology at St. Rita of Cascia High School.

Kelly Smith ’10, Red Wing, Minn., teaches fifth grade for the Pine Island Public Schools.

Joanna Struck C’10, Fargo, N.D., is a kindergarten teacher with Moorhead Public Schools.

Kate Summers ’10, Stewartville, Minn., began working for Mayo Clinic as a finance analyst.

Peter Tornquist ’10, Eden Prairie, Minn., just became a

Spanish and Portuguese interpreter with Garden & Associates.

David Treichel C’10, Lino Lakes, Minn., was hired by North Branch Area Public Schools as the director of curriculum, instruction and alternative learning programs.

Michael Bonk ’11, Phoenix, Ariz., works for Pacific Office Automation as their account executive.

Alex Conover ’11, Minneapolis, was hired as communication manager at the Saint Mary’s University Twin Cities campus. He came from Sportsdigita, a sports marketing agency in Uptown Minneapolis.

Brittany DeGrood ’11, Faribault, Minn., works as an assistant artist for Jostens where she works in the process of designing class rings, yearbooks, diplomas and many other things.

Kevin Edwards M’11, High Point, N.C., started at High Point University and is serving as their vice president of institutional advancement.

Michele Fournier M’11, Andover, Minn., started a new position as a chemical health and family program coordinator at the Minnesota Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.

Quentin Moore ’11, Minneapolis, was hired as an English teacher and head cross country coach at Academy of Holy Angels, in addition to being the assistant track coach at St. Olaf College.

Meagan Newbold ’11, Rochester, Minn., is teaching first grade at Kingsland Elementary School.

Brian Smidt M’11, Rochester, Minn., is the new director of facilities for Rochester Public Schools, where he will oversee the district’s 35 buildings and schools.

Jennifer Teske M’11, Rochester, Minn., started her new role as director of philanthropy for the Boys & Girls Club in Rochester.

Jaysen Anderson M’12, C’13, St. Paul, Minn., began his first year as assistant principal at North High School.

Annika Bartos M’12, St. Paul, Minn., works as a mental health practitioner for Family Innovations.

Carmen Drevs M’12, Apple Valley, Minn., works for United Health Group as their senior project manager.

Serena (Burmeister ’12) Emerfoll, Oakdale, Minn., has been hired as a human resources manager for Thomas Allen, Inc. Jessica Giers ’12, M’13, Burnsville, Minn., is a new instrumental music teacher at Totino-Grace High School and Fine Arts Academy.

Nicole Herrera M’12, Brighton, Colo., works for Dandelion Meadow Marriage and Family Counseling, LLC, as its psychotherapist and owner.

Janine Hoogland-Klchosky M’12, Phillips, Wis., is teaching high school English and history for the School District of Ladysmith.

Pamela Jaskowiak M’12, Detroit Lakes, Minn., joined the staff at Viking Elementary School as an intervention teacher.

Linda Kane ’12, Rochester, Minn., is the director of account management services at Express Scripts, Inc. Emily Munns ’12, White Bear Lake, Minn., has been recently promoted to research manager at MECLABS. She enjoyed traveling to the corporate office in Jacksonville, Fla., over the past year.

Mackenzie Narins M’12, Loretto, Minn., is teaching special education for fifth through eighth grades for Delano Middle School.

Cheryl Protas M’12, Redmond, Wash., is the senior principal system architect for Physio Control.

Tallitha Reese ’12, Monroe, Wis., was hired to be the editor

for the weekly newspaper, Republic Journal.

Klarissa Schoppers ’12, Spring Valley, Minn., joined the staff at Spring Valley Public Library as a cataloger and library assistant.

Stephanie Sturges ’12, Rochester, Minn., is in her first year as a fifth-grade teacher at Blooming Prairie Elementary School.

Kate Boline M’13, St. Louis Park, Minn., was hired by the Eden Prairie School District as its new special education teacher.

Connie Budin ’13, Eagan, Minn., joined United Health Group this past year as an employee in the corporate office of social responsibility.

Bethany Cleary M’13, Braham, Minn., is a mental health practitioner for Therapeutic Services Agency.

Matthew Decker M’12, McKinney, Tex., is the youth ministry coordinator for the Catholic parish, Our Lady of Angels.

Faye Foote M’13, St. Louis Park, Minn., is the owner and a psychotherapist at Clarity Counseling, LLC. Brittany Geerdes ’13, Stewartville, Minn., was hired as an assurance associate for McGladrey LLP. Carissa Hahn ’13, Hutchinson, Minn., joined the Christian Brothers Conference this past year as their new communications specialist.

Douglas Hurd ’13, Eagan, Minn., is the leadership instructor for Saint Thomas Academy.

Cody Jenson C’13, Plymouth, Minn., began a new career as a geographic information system specialist in renewable energy for Geronimo Energy.

Amy Kleinboehl M’13, Rosemount, Minn., teaches social studies and math for fifthand sixth- grade students at St. Croix Preparatory Academy.

Judy London M’13, Clinton, Wis., is a teacher for the School District of Beloit.

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CLASS NOTES Kathy Sherman ’02, M’03 to Nathan Monson, Plainview, Minn., on Apr. 6, 2013.

Catherine Crotty ’03 to David Sommers, Schaumberg, Ill, on Oct. 26, 2013. Saint Mary’s University alumni in attendance were John ’03 and Brooke (Meschke ’03) Holterhaus, Erin McAllister ’03, and Evey Olson ’03.

Margaret Ortmann ’03 to Brent Jambor, Lincoln, Neb., on Oct. 19, 2013. Father William Thompson ’04 presided over the nuptials.

Cameron Jon Phillips was born on Sept. 4, 2013 to Becky (Belanger ’05) and Nick Phillips, of Buffalo Grove, Ill.

Sam Olsem ’13, Winsted, Minn., is in his first year as a religion and math teacher at Holy Trinity High School.

Kevin Rofidal ’13, Eden Prairie, Minn., is serving as a sergeant for the Edina Police Department.

Julie Scharber M’13, Elk River, Minn., owns and operates her own counseling service, Calia Counseling, LLC, a private practice that serves adults, adolescents and children.

Steven Wielenberg ’13, Grey Eagle, Minn., is a floor manager at Sauk Center Fleet Supply.

WEDDINGS Maureen Smyth Daugherty ’85 to Donald Buytaert, Lemont, Ill., on Nov. 22, 2013. Saint Mary’s University alumni in attendance were Thomas Wilson ’86, Matt Haug ’85 and Dan Lori ’84.

Julie Naliwajko ’98 to Joe Kosman, Chicago, Ill., on Sept.

21, 2012. Saint Mary’s University alumni in attendance included, from left: Allison Murray ’05, Josh ’98 and Kate (Moore ’98) Babcock, Jamee (Gallagher ’98) Kenny, Wendy (Nelson ’98) Gaeding, Jason Knag ’98, Katie (McKeon ’98) Lopez, Ryan ’98 and Amy (Mertons ’98) Jurek; front: Marty Connors ’99, the bride and Maggie (Clancy ’98) Olson.

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Maggie Haas ’05 to Kevin Drechsler, New Berlin, Wis., on Sept. 21, 2013. Saint Mary’s University alumni in attendance were Karl and Katie (Laubach ’05) Hatteberg, Kristi (Pugal ’05) Klemens, Noel L’Esperance ’05 and Allison Pendergast ’05.

Jonna Schimek ’07 to Joao Benevides Demasi, Rochester, Minn., on Sept. 14, 2013.

Lisa Frank ’08 to Aaron Haemmerle, Fort Worth, Tex., on Dec. 7, 2013. Saint Mary’s University alumni in attendance were Katie Schares ’08 and Alexandra Theis ’09.

Katrina Seitz M’08 to Jacob Anderson, St. Paul, Minn., on Aug. 23, 2013.

Maria Mangan ’10 to Josh Gamiao, Mendota Heights, Minn., in Dec. 2013.

Emily Cooper ’11 to Jacob Kosidowski, Winona, Minn., on Nov. 8, 2013.

Tara Malewicki ’11 to Jeremy Rothering, Cochrane, Wis., in Oct. 2012.

Lindsay Brinkman M’12 to Justin Lindall, Arden Hills, Minn., on June 15, 2013.

Brittany Goedtke to Brett Perish M’13, Fulda, Minn., on June 8, 2013.

Jessica Ellison M’13 to Benjamin Johnston, Minneapolis, Minn., on June 22, 2013.

Jessica Lindemann M’13 to Ryan Washington, Roseville, Minn., on Aug. 24, 2013.

BIRTHS

DEATHS

Matt and Laura (Lentino ’97) Downs, Chicago, a son, Jayden Matthew, on July 25, 2013.

Jerome Moede ’41, Columbus, N.C., on June 2, 2013.

Bryan and Marie (Johnson ’97) Strawser, Roseville, Minn., a daughter, Norah Mae, on March 27, 2013. She joins Meaghan.

Maria and Rick Petersen ’98, Maplewood, Minn., a daughter, Violet Shavone, on Oct. 24, 2013. She joins Joseph, 1.

Eric ’99 and Laura (Erickson ’99) Aschenbrenner, a son, Peter William, on June 14, 2013.

He joins Luke, 10, Dominic, 8 and Jacob, 4.

Justin and Dianne (Lord ’00) Miller, Eagan, Minn., a daughter, Elizabeth Joy, on June 17, 2013. She joins Karen, 7 and Julianne, 5.

Dr. Christina (Schroepfer ’01) Van Guilder, St. Paul, Minn., a son, Joseph Bryce, on Oct. 22, 2013. He joins Olivia, 2.

Kristin (McCaslay ’01) Walters, Zionsville, Ind., a son, Grant, on March 28, 2013.

Thomas Barrett ’42, St. Paul, Minn., on Jan. 10, 2014.

Robert Gartz ’42, Monroeville, Pa., on Aug. 7, 2013.

Brother Joseph Seiler ’43, Westmont, Ill., on Jan. 29, 2014.

James “Eddie” Reiland ’45, Rochester, Minn., on Jan. 13, 2014.

John Slater ’45, St. Paul, Minn., on Dec. 8, 2013.

Norbert Heuel ’47, Riverside, Ill., on July 29, 2013.

Jerome Hoeppner ’47, Grand Forks, N.D., on Oct. 24, 2013.

George Hittner ’49, Winona, Minn., on July 30, 2013.

Brother Edward Everett ’50, Winona, Minn., on Aug. 21, 2013.

Robert Trauscht ’50, Rolling Meadows, Ill., on Jan. 21, 2014.

Jonathan and Theresa (Miller ’03) Dlugi, Mukwonago, Wis., a son, Nathan William, on Nov. 3, 2013. He joins Jaeden, 4 and Mya, 2.

Richard O’Connor ’51, Cumming, Ga., on Feb. 1, 2014.

Ryan ’03 and Jennifer (Varchmin ’03) Hover, St. Paul, Minn., a daughter, Faith Mary, on Sept. 10, 2013. She joins Josephine and Ronan.

Dr. Robert Fallon ’53, Bloomington, Minn., on Nov. 9, 2013.

Alan ’04 and Amanda (Conover ’04) Wurtzberger, New Richmond, Wis., a son, Afon Dale, on Nov. 12, 2013. He joins Audrey, 1 and Annika, 3.

Keila and Benjamin Leist ’05, West Allis, Wis., a son, Gabriel, on April 17, 2013.

Brian and Gabrielle (Bushmann ’06) Blake, Whitefish Bay, Wis., a son, William Patrick, on Oct. 14, 2013. He joins Eleanor, 2.

Dominic ’06 and Sarah (Vargason ’06) Lawrence, Farmington, Minn., a daughter, Harper Ann, on March 20, 2013.

Robert Stephen ’51, Geneva, Ill., on April 27, 2013.

Nicholas Liffrig ’55, Mason City, Iowa, on Jan. 3, 3014.

Darwin Goodrich ’57, Mankato, Minn., on Aug. 10, 2013.

Robert Hentzen ’57, Kansas City, Kan., on Oct. 8, 2013.

Daniel Calvey ’58, El Dorado Hills, Calif., on Sept. 15, 2013.

George King ’58, Storm Lake, Iowa, on Dec. 18, 2012.

Brother Gus Kossuth ’58, Romeoville, Ill., on Jan. 11, 2014.

Patrick O’Rourke ’58, Wells, Minn., on Sept. 24, 2013.

SPRING 2014

CLASS NOTES

Sarah Weir ’10 married Patrick van Staveren on Sept. 28, 2013, at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Aurora, Ill. The couple now resides in Shanghai, China.

Several SMU alumni attended including, from left: back, Jon Pace ’08; the groom; Thomas Briese ’10; Kevin Donlon C’07, M’07; Wade Rodgers ’10; Joe Holman ’09; front, the bride and Jess Paulsen ’09. Not pictured is Danielle (Zauhar ’09) Vanderscheuren M’10.

Abby Rosenthal ’08 and Harry Fitzgerald ’08 were married June 22, 2013, in Red Wing, Minn. SMU alums attending included, from left: front, Annie Nakagaki ’07, Ryan Lynch ’08, Rachell (Maras ’96) Horbenko, Pete Horbenko ’97, Cheri O’Leary ’06, the bride and groom, Nicole Elstun ’01, groomsman Chris Kellen ’08, bridesmaid Amy Kalina ’08; center, Nicole Ferrie-Wig ’09, Ben Nakagaki M’10, Adam Wig ’08, groomsman Chris Schleper ’08, Ashley Perich ’08, Kendra Maloney ’08, Jessica Thompson ’08, James McElherne ’08, John Freeman ’08, Lisa (Mahler ’08) Freeman, Kasey SchultzSaindon ’08, Eric Saindon ’07, Matt Bilski ’07, Mara Smith ’07, groomsman Steve Adams ’08; back, Adam Solseth ’07, Tim Petersen ’08, Annie DeLeon ’08, Jessica Ribish ’07, groomsman D.J. Prideaux ’08, groomsman Matt Clementz ’08, bridesmaid Kaylin Martin ’08, Moreen Bosch ’08, Jennifer Benson ’09, and Laura (Eggert ’08) Wotta. Not pictured are: Erin McAllister ’03, Stacey (Sanborn ’82) Sweeney and Bob Connor ’76 (retired faculty).

Jessika Lukes ’13 married Cody Cuhel ’13 on Oct. 12, 2013, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Winsted, Minn.

Alumni attending the wedding included, from left: front, Emily Munns ’12, Rebecca Munns ’14, Jamie Heit ’13, the bride and groom, Evan Zierk ’13, Casey Bjornstad ’13, Kyle Kozelka ’13, Megan McEnaney ’13; back, Bethany Ostertag ’13, Jacob Loechler ’13, Lydia Nowak ’13, Tommy Walker ’13, Kristen Gustafson ’14, Jamie Cooper ’13, Matt Koch ’13 and Colin Norris ’13.

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CLASS NOTES Kate Peppler M’01, St. Paul, Minn., on Dec. 6, 2013.

Kathy Schroeder M’02, Cottage Grove, Minn., on Aug. 23, 2013.

Jacob Endemann ’04, Charleston, S.C., on Jan. 23, 2014.

Sarah Ann (Siebenaler ’04) Hackenmiller, Rochester, Minn., on Aug. 4, 2013.

Jane Galloway M’06, Merrifield, Minn., on Aug. 20, 2013.

James “Jim” Mohan ’91 the creative mind behind one of Saint Mary’s early cartoon Cardinal icons, died suddenly Jan. 25, 2014. An avid artist, Mohan got his creative start at Saint Mary’s, where he majored in fine arts/graphic design.

The Cardinal character is still occasionally resurrected to promote Chemistry Nights and other events on campus.

Eric Schultz ’09, Zumbrota, Minn., on Jan. 10, 2014.

FORMER FACULTY Thomas Healey, Scottsdale, Ariz., on Dec. 5, 2013. He was the former director and administrator in the M.S. in Nurse Anesthesia program.

SYMPATHIES John Sanders ’58, Fort Madison, Iowa, on April 20, 2013.

Lavern Huse M’69, Dodge Center, Minn., on Oct. 10, 2013.

Brother Jeffrey Gros, FSC ’59, M’62, Chicago, Ill., on Aug. 12, 2013.

John McNamara ’71, Savanna, Ill., on July 24, 2013.

Andrew Olson ’59, Marshfield, Wis., on Jan. 7, 2014.

Tom Plouf ’59, Las Cruces, N.M., on Nov. 17, 2013.

Lee Lauermann ’60, La Crosse, Wis., on June 11, 2013.

Roman Walch ’60, Winona, Minn., on Dec. 20, 2013.

Richard Wojcik ’60, Naples Fla., on Jan. 23. 2014.

Alvin Mueller ’63, Huron, S.D., on Dec. 13, 2013.

Dr. Don Wedgbury ’63, Rockford, Ill., on Dec. 27, 2013.

James Abicht ’64, Minneapolis, Minn., on Nov. 15, 2013.

Joseph Ziegler ’67, Fayetteville, Ark., on March 9, 2013.

John Goss ’68, League City, Texas, on Oct. 11, 2013.

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Teresa Cullen ’80, Western Springs, Ill., on Dec. 25, 2013.

Patricia Leonard ’81, Seattle, Wash., on March 27, 2013.

Virginia (O’Neil ’82) Follensbee, Mantorville, Minn., on Dec. 27, 2013.

Sister Florence Domka M’91, Stevens Point, Wis., on Oct. 29, 2013.

James Mohan ’91, Bloomington, Minn., on Jan. 25, 2014.

Michael Bradford M’96, Brainerd, Minn., on Nov. 25, 2013.

Victor Trauscht ’44, Mary (McClory CST’50) Trauscht, Donald Trauscht ’55, Raymond ’69 and Mary Pat (Trauscht CST’74) Jewison, Dr. Robert ’76 and Dr. Ann (O’Conner ’77) Trauscht, Elizabeth (Trauscht CST’78) Lauersen, Suzanne Trauscht ’81, and Thomas Trauscht ’85, on the death of their brother, husband, father, and father-inlaw, Robert Trauscht ’50, on Jan. 21, 2013.

Joseph Magee ’52 and Thomas Leonard ’85, on the death of their niece and sister, Patricia Leonard ’81, on March 27, 2013.

Ronald Abicht ’54 and Robert Abicht ’61, on the death of their brother, James Abicht ’64, on Nov. 15, 2013.

Carol Erickson M’98, Elk River, Minn., on Jan. 15, 2014.

Thomas Barrett Jr. ’67, Michael ’71 and Judith (Barrett CST’71) Semsch, Sarah Carew ’01, Nate ’04 and Emily (Pribyl ’03) Semsch, on the death of their father, fatherin-law, grandfather, and grandfather-in-law, Thomas Barrett ’42, on Jan. 10, 2014.

Annamarie Connor M’00, Morristown, N.Y., on Jan. 27, 2013.

Dr. Francis Daniel ’67, Dr. James Daniel ’68, and Dr. Gregory Daniel ’70, on the

Kristen Riebenack M’97, Fort Wayne, Ind., on Apr. 7, 2013.

death of their wife and sister-inlaw, Theresa (Conway CST’68) Daniel, on Oct. 11, 2013.

David Moede ’70, on the death of his father, Jerome Moede ’41, on June 2, 2013.

Nancy Wiltgen ’75 and Paul Wiltgen ’76 on the death of their father, Leonard R. Wiltgen, on Jan. 23, 2014. Len was the business manager at Saint Mary’s in the 1950s and younger brother of long-time Saint Mary’s coach and teacher Ken Wiltgen.

Chuck Wolande ’76, Jim Wolande ’81, Jillian Wolande ’06 and Timothy Wolande ’15, on the death of their father and grandfather, Sam Wolande, on Jan. 14, 2014.

Don Spetter ’78, Sue (Spetter ’79) Wolfe, John ’82 and Mary Kay (Spetter ’82) Kaminski, Joe Kauth ’88, Alex Spetter ’09 and Kevin Kaminski SGPP, on the death of their father, father-in-law, uncle and grandfather, Henry Spetter, on April 14, 2012.

Dr. James ’79 and Anne (Lock ’79) Dolan, and Andrew Dolan ’07, on the death of their father, father-in-law, and grandfather, James Dolan Sr., on Jan. 17, 2014.

Terrance Cullen ’80, on the death of his wife, Teresa (Mooney ’80) Cullen, on Dec. 25, 2013.

Ellen (Prendergast ’86) Kelly and Maria (Prendergast ’86) Moran, on the death of their father, Richard Prendergast, in Dec. 2012.

Adrienne (Czech ’92) Gibbons and Thomas Czech ’94, on the death of their father, James Czech, on Nov. 7, 2012.

Bonnie Reiter Skaja M’03, on the death of her sister, Carol Erickson M’98, on Jan. 15, 2013.

Robert Endemann ’05, on the death of his brother, Jacob Endemann ’04, on Jan. 23, 2014.≠ SPRING 2014

Saying Goodbye to Stan Pollock Sociology Professor Emeritus Stan Pollock, Ph.D., was known for his sharp wit. Even after battling serious illnesses for nearly 20 years, Dr. Pollock found unique ways to make others smile while making light of his situation.

Like the photos he touted of him standing in front of piles of empty cans of the liquid supplement he existed on for about 10 years. These were, as he considered most things, teaching moments. These were opportunities to tell the ultimate story of triumph over tragedy.

Dr. Pollock taught sociology at Saint Mary’s from 1971 to 1998 and returned as a researcher from 2000-2006 in the assessment office.

It was oral cancer that forced him to cut short his teaching career in the late ’90s. Later, he would survive two emergency brain surgeries.

But, with a shrug of his shoulders, he said, “You play the cards that are dealt to you.” And, with determination, he set about living life to the fullest, biking 1,500-2,000 miles a year, doing daily yoga and meditation exercises, heading off to local events and going for regular walks.

His only true regret was that he would have loved spending more time in the classroom. “Right down to my soul, I miss teaching,” he said.

“Some of my students from years ago ended up very close friends of mine.

I’m almost like a proud father.”

When an article about Dr. Pollock ran in Saint Mary’s Magazine a few years back, a number of alumni contacted him to reconnect. There was perhaps no greater gift that a lifelong educator could have received.

Dr. Pollock died April 15, 2014, and the Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to his family and his extended family of alumni.

CHARITABLE GIVING: INVEST IN TOMORROW’S LEARNERS! BEQUESTS

EASY: Make a simple designation in your will or trust (known as a “bequest”) naming Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota as a beneficiary. It’s an easy way to support Saint Mary’s, add to your legacy, and ensure that we will continue to fulfill our mission for years to come.

A Bequest is Revocable … and doesn’t affect your current asset balance or cash flow. If your plans or circumstances change, you can easily modify your bequest.

A Bequest is Simple … and can be set up in one paragraph in your will or trust.

“

Giving back through a bequest in my will is an easy way to honor and recognize the difference a Saint Mary’s education made in my life.

”

A Bequest is Flexible … and allows you to give a specific asset, sum of money, or share in the net residue of your estate. Your bequest can support a particular initiative or allow us to use it for the needs that are most relevant when your gift is received.

– Pamela Joachim ’77

LEARN MORE AT:

Your gift will have a direct impact on the lives of current and future students of Saint Mary’s University.

Not intended as legal, tax, or investment advice. Copyright © 2013, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. All Rights Reserved.

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I am Saint Mary’s Robert Rotering ’71 practices global medicine Robert Rotering ’71 has no bucket list.

“I’ve lived all over the world and done everything I wanted to do,” he said. “I’ve seen it all and done it all. I’ve lived my dream.”

Rotering’s vast career can’t easily be summarized, and fascinating stories flow rapidly from his memories: from when he served as a physician in the most remote areas of the world; cared for wounded soldiers in Saudi Arabia; flew more than 150 transport and rescue flights as a transport surgeon; authored two books; and even experienced the world’s first artificial heart transplant.

Yet his life history began humbly, on a farm in North Dakota. Rotering, a firstgeneration college student, came to Saint Mary’s as a seminary student at Immaculate Heart of Mary. Though he decided not to go into the priesthood, he continued his studies in philosophy.

“I was at Saint Mary’s during the socially tumultuous times of Vietnam, hippies and Woodstock,” Rotering said, adding that he appreciated the fact that the Christian Brothers encouraged civil discourse, particularly about the Vietnam War. “The Christian Brothers were on the cutting edge of academic intellectualism at universities,” he said. “Saint Mary’s had mass protests in front of the student union with hundreds of students. It was a very dynamic time, and Saint Mary’s was very actively involved in national issues.”

Rotering fondly remembers tending to the rabbit farm on campus, and recalls one of the innovative Brothers who filled a 40foot trailer with computers and took it to regional high schools to expose students to the new and yet-foreign technology.

“Saint Mary’s was family to me. It was just such a friendly, nurturing and supportive place,” he said. “You were friends with the Brothers, you camped and canoed with them, did community outreach with them. It was a wonderful time. Saint Mary’s was a key part of my finding my way in life educationally.”

Rotering made the most of his time at Saint Mary’s, volunteering on campus and off; staying active with student leadership,

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Robert Rotering ’71 has practiced medicine around the globe.

music and intramurals; and becoming a licensed pilot and founding member of the Tri College Flying Club, Rotering also received a Woodrow Wilson scholarship to continue his philosophy studies, first in Boston and then in Europe, where he traveled, backpack in hand. “Everybody threw on a backpack,” he said with a laugh. “It was part of the hippie thing.”

After having what he called a “breadand-butter nightmare,” Rotering decided he should choose a career with a more tangible future. He decided on medicine and returned to Saint Mary’s for pre-med studies.

He then attended Rush Medical College in Chicago and trained in general and cardiothoracic surgery at the Mayo Clinic, the University of Utah and in New York. At Utah, he became the first resident in the U.S. trained in laser surgery, and he was a chief surgical resident in Utah during the world’s first artificial heart transplant.

But after finishing his medical training, Rotering decided a lucrative career in corporate medicine wasn’t what was calling his heart. “To this day, I would like to feel that the Christian spirit, the Lasallian spirit,

was with me. I chose a life in the cause of active public good and global positive action in clinical care, education, advancing medical programs and improving societal issues in both hemispheres — living in service to others and in support of my country.”

“As a leader in global medicine, I was routinely called upon to care for royalty, rock stars and international VIPs but my heart was always most into helping those in greatest need. My home was always open to the poorest, voluntarily caring for the sick and dying who had never seen a trained medical practitioner.”

For example, Rotering said, “routinely on time off while working in Borneo in Southeast Asia, I would travel up the rivers deep into the jungle to care for indigenous people who had never met a Westerner or benefited from our medicine. That virgin triple canopy rain forest challenged me to practice without any amenities, but left me with the most cherished memories while living the Saint Mary’s call to lead and contribute to global transformation.”

Rotering’s career has included practicing medicine in four international locations: Grenada, West Indies; Saudi

SPRING 2014

LEFT: Rotering was part the “Desert Dogs” – an outreach support program that delivered a little “back home comfort” to troops during the Gulf War. Rotering made many trips to the front lines providing medical and surgical services during the war. He is pictured delivering supplies to the troops. They also filmed Christmas messages from deployed troops for family back home as part of Operation Desert Santa. The messages then aired on TV network outlets throughout the U.S. BELOW: Delivering medical supplies with a physician to clinics in villages around Grenada. Pictured with local village children from “Project Hope.”

ABOVE: Rotering flew many transport flights for the University of Utah Medical Center’s AirMed system as a flight surgeon. In this trauma scene, Rotering (center) is pictured with Dr. William DeVries (right), the cardiothoracic surgeon who performed the world’s first permanent artifical heart replacement surgery.

Arabia (10 years as a physician and medical director including Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Desert Farewell); Brunei, Borneo, Southeast Asia; and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

“The times in my career that have been the most satisfying have been cradling a dying soldier taking his last breath, or in Southeast Asia, going up the Borneo rivers helping people who had afflictions that were easy to fix and care for. It gave me a sense of satisfaction that I never could have had if I had practiced for money.”

Rotering said he was inspired by a Project Hope poster that he saw when he was finishing his cardiothoracic residency

that read: “Doctor, Teacher, Friend to the world.”

“I was looking for something like that,” he said. “In Grenada, we washed our surgical gloves and reused them. We operated in 110-degree heat with doors open and flies landing. But it was so satisfying to be able to make a difference.

I could use all my energy to help uplift people who needed help and truly appreciated what I brought. And I did it in places most people would want to avoid.”

Now living in New York, Rotering is focusing on his four children, two in college and two in high school. He’s

advised them to savor every second of college life.

“Attending Saint Mary’s was the greatest college experience anyone could ever have,” he said. “The Christian Brothers demonstrated possibility and inspiration. I want to give back to Saint Mary’s, to some of those students who are searching, and tell them to look at my story. I came as a seminarian, graduated in philosophy, wound up a surgeon. I ended up being a doctor, a teacher, a friend to the world.

“You can do anything as a graduate of Saint Mary’s,” Rotering said. “You’re in a world-class academic environment.”≠

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SAINT MARY’S MAGAZINE

SPRING 2014

O U R H I S T O RY

lookingback

Memories of the hydrobiology station Part of a college education includes real-world preparation and hands-on learning experiences. This has been the hallmark of a Saint Mary’s education. Countless science students in the 1960s and ’70s benefitted from a practical education that only the Mississippi River and its amazing ecosystem could provide. Students completed many valuable research projects from Saint Mary’s hydrobiology station, located near Homer, Minn. Although the hydrobiology station is gone, Saint Mary’s acquisition of the Prairie Island Field Station, located on the banks of the Mississippi in Winona, once again provides the university direct access to the upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge and close proximity to the natural aspects and human activity defined by the river.

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.≠

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CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE A BENEFIT GALA ADVANCING THE SCIENCES AS WE LAUNCH OUR SECOND CENTURY

Saturday, May 17, 2014 6 o’clock p.m.

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$350 per person ($220 is tax-deductible) Please register online at www.smumn.edu/sciencegala or call (507) 457– 6647 Formal attire requested Black tie optional Limited seating available For more information visit: www.smumn.edu/sciencegala

Come back to campus for Reunion Weekend, June 20-22 To register or see a complete schedule, go to mysmumn.org/reunion14