Saint Mary's Magazine Spring 2016

SPRING 2016 – VOLUME 49, NUMBER 1

CONTENTS 1 2 6

FROM THE EDITOR GROUND IS BROKEN JOHN C. PARMER IS SYNONYMOUS WITH SCIENCE 8 SAINT MARY’S LIVING LAB 10 REINHART READY TO LEAD 12 CALLED TO HELP 14 USING NEW GIS TECHNOLOGY TO FIND AN ANCIENT FORT 16 PARTNERING ON PLANT RESEARCH 18 A CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE 20 BROTHER CHARLES SEVERIN CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE 22 STUDENTS JOIN U.S. POPE PILGRIMAGE 24 FINDING A GOAL 28 ALUMNI ENRICH CAMPUS LIFE 30 NEWS AND VIEWS 38 ALUMNI NEWS 44 SPORTS NEWS 49 LARRY GORRELL REMEMBERED 50 CLASS NOTES 56 LETTERS

VICE PRESIDENT, DEVELOPMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS Audrey Kintzi, MS, ACFRE ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT BRAND MANAGEMENT Stacia Vogel EDITOR Deb Nahrgang Phone: 507-457-6966 Fax: 507-457-6967 dnahrgan@smumn.edu CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Robert Fisher ’97, M’06 Chloe Morrison ’17 Donny Nadeau ’85 Deb Nahrgang Stacia Vogel PHOTOGRAPHERS Josh Banks Moni Berg-Binder Rick Busch Bob Conover Jonathan Henry Janie Maki ’15 Deb Nahrgang Tom Roster GRAPHIC DESIGN Greg Haakonson PRODUCTION Pat Beech Bob Conover The John Roberts Company Saint Mary’s Magazine is published by Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota for its alumni, parents, and friends. ADDRESS CHANGES Saint Mary’s Magazine Saint Mary’s University 700 Terrace Heights #21 Winona, MN 55987-1399 ON THE WEB smumn.edu/magazine ABOUT SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota awakens, nurtures, and empowers learners to ethical lives of leadership and service. At Saint Mary’s, students find in every classroom—whether in person or online—a relationshipdriven, person-centered education. Through intense inquiry, students discover the truths in the world and the character within. Founded in 1912 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota enrolls 5,800 students at its residential undergraduate college in Winona and its Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs, based in Minneapolis with programs offered in Rochester, other locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin, and fully online. As a Lasallian Catholic university welcoming all students, Saint Mary’s offers respected and affordable programs in a variety of areas leading to bachelor’s, bachelor’s completion, master’s, certificate, specialist, and doctoral degrees. Learn more at smumn.edu.

We’re Just Getting Started

Deb Nahrgang Saint Mary’s Magazine editor

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that this issue is all about the sciences. It’s been a year of advancements at Saint Mary’s, and this issue gives you a front-row seat to all that’s been happening. First, ground was broken on the long-awaited, muchanticipated Science and Learning Center. Each day we watch progress being made as the building begins to take shape. Sometimes we also feel the progress as heavy equipment hammers away. Many a joke has been made about the “Good Vibrations” happening here at Saint Mary’s. The Beach Boys would be proud. With new labs, classrooms, and gathering spaces— designed for efficiency, as well as aesthetics—completion of the Science and Learning Center in June 2017 will be a dream come true. But advancing the sciences is about so much more than a new building. We have a new dean of sciences and health professions—with vast experience in research—to lead programs on both campuses. We have a new facility, Cascade Meadow Wetlands and Environmental Science Center, in Rochester where our students can grow and learn. We also share its rich resources with the greater community. This facility helps Saint Mary’s to grow our presence in Rochester, a focal point for development, medical advancements, and growth—not to mention potential students. We’re forming new partnerships, like with the John C. Parmer family, who is joining us in our mission. For the first time, Saint Mary’s has named a school: the John C. Parmer School of the Sciences, honoring an alumnus who was a visionary in the sciences. And we’re already doing amazing work, like our unique long-term care licensure option in the M.A. in Health and Human Services Administration program. As the pace of an aging population accelerates in the United States, the need for trained caregivers increases, and Saint Mary’s is one of very few universities meeting that need. That’s not all. You’ll notice this magazine has a new look and feel—which is also part of the university’s forward momentum. Along with our branding initiative, and in response to survey comments we received from alumni, we’re adapting this magazine to better meet your needs. We hope you enjoy the changes we’ve made! It’s been quite a ride this year, and we’re just getting started. I can’t think of a better time to get excited, get involved, and be part of something that will enhance Saint Mary’s reputation for excellence. Join us in pickin’ up good vibrations! ≠

CAMPUS RESOURCES UNIVERSITY WEBSITE smumn.edu

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

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Winona Undergraduate Alumni 507-457-1499 Fax 507-457-6697 Toll-free 800-635-5987, Ext. 1499 alumni@smumn.edu Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs Alumni 612-238-4507 Fax 612-728-5167 Toll-free 866-437-2788 sgppalumni@smumn.edu

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

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DEVELOPMENT

507-457-6647 Fax 507-457-6689 giving@smumn.edu smumn.edu/giving

PERFORMANCE CENTER BOX OFFICE 507-457-1715 tickets@smumn.edu pagetheatre.org

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION 507-457-1497 spopp@smumn.edu smumn.edu/news

ADMISSION Winona Toll-free 800-635-5987, Ext. 1700 admission@smumn.edu Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs Toll-free 866-437-2788, Ext. 207 tcadmission@smumn.edu

JOB OPPORTUNITIES smumn.edu/jobs

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Ground is Broken on New It was a beautiful day to kick off a new era of science excellence. On Oct. 9, Saint Mary’s University broke ground on an innovative $19 million Science and Learning Center at its Winona Campus. During the sunny fall afternoon, as he addressed a crowd of 200, Brother William said he couldn’t help but be reminded of the John Denver song lyrics, “Sunshine on my shoulders.” “It’s a special honor and privilege not just to break ground for a new building but to break ground for a new academic building on this campus. Academics is the heart and core of what a university is all about,” he said, noting that many successful Saint Mary’s science alumni have gone on to make significant contributions for the betterment of society, work that is deeply embedded in the Lasallian Catholic heritage. “Today’s students will make tomorrow’s headlines,” added Audrey Kintzi, vice president for development and alumni relations. “So it makes me incredibly happy that we are now able to house such very important study and work in a new facility. Saint Mary’s students deserve an education that prepares them to address the needs of tomorrow, and they deserve an environment that meets their expectations, as well as their drive and determination.” Phil Emmerich, a senior biology and biochemistry student, hopes one day to make headlines by helping find cures to the cancers that affect so many.

“Today’s students will make tomorrow’s headlines.” —Audrey Kintzi Emmerich served as a Saint Mary’s University Fellow at Gundersen Medical Foundation’s Kabara Cancer Research Institute in La Crosse, Wis., this past summer. “I’m thankful for the many hands-on learning opportunities I’ve been provided,” he told the crowd. “To work in labs is absolutely vital to a science student, because science today doesn’t need people who memorize from a book. They need people who can think independently and come up with new solutions.” Brother William said he was also reminded of a song verse by the Beatles: “I get by with a little help from my friends.” He expressed the university’s deep gratitude to the former students, families, friends, trustees, and benefactors who have already donated $13 million in Phase I of this project. Saint Mary’s continues to move toward a new level of academic excellence and achievement in the sciences in other ways. Last summer it acquired Cascade Meadow Wetlands and Environmental Science Center in Rochester. Continued on page 4

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Breaking ground are, from left: Pat Cermak, Mary Burrichter, Eric Doyle ’16, Mary Ann (Wera) Remick CST’64, Brother William, Sandra (Kaiser) Simon CST ’72, Dr. Todd Reinhart, Maetzin Cruz-Reyes ’17, Michael Gostomski ’62 (hidden), and Jim Nagle.

Brother William

Science and Learning Center A rendering of the Science and Learning Center

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Most recently, a new position was created—a new dean of sciences and health professions, overseeing both the graduate and professional and the undergraduate college programs. The groundbreaking ceremony marked the perfect opportunity for Brother William to introduce Dr. Todd Reinhart in the new dean position. Dr. Reinhart came to Saint Mary’s from the University of Pittsburgh, where he served multiple roles including professor of infectious diseases and microbiology, director of the Graduate School of Public Health Center for Lymphatic Immunobiology, and associate dean for faculty affairs. “One of the things that drew me to Saint Mary’s is this administration’s desire to meet the challenges and needs of everevolving science programs,” Dr. Reinhart said. “Saint Mary’s is already accomplishing this by forging partnerships within the world-class health services corridor of this area; and by taking full advantage of the vast and diverse natural environment here—from these beautiful bluffs, to the Mississippi River, to the creek that flows through campus—in providing meaningful experiential educational opportunities. “But there’s always potential to do more. I plan to examine ways to expand opportunities for students and faculty at both the graduate and undergraduate levels to engage in basic and applied research, both in the sciences and the health professions,” he said. Housing these new experiential opportunities, the new 50,000 square-foot contemporary Science and Learning Center will attach to the existing Adducci Science Center. Highlights of the building include: • State-of-the-art classrooms and labs that will serve as optimal learning environments and provide a platform for increased research. • A layout specially designed to promote hands-on learning. • An interior atrium that will visually connect all three floors and welcome sunlight from the building’s skylights, creating ideal spaces for study and student interactions outside of the classroom. • A 120-seat tiered auditorium that will accommodate special events, guest speakers, and student presentations.

Watch progress of the construction live at buildingtogether.smumn.edu.

Wight & Company of Chicago is serving as the architect and general contractor. Construction began immediately after the groundbreaking, with the building estimated to be completed by June 2017. Breaking ground were: • Pat Cermak, president and COO, Wight & Company • Mary Burrichter, member, Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees; chair, Finance and Facilities Committee • Eric Doyle ’16, president, Saint Mary’s Student Senate • Mary Ann (Wera) Remick CST’64, chair, Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees • Brother William Mann, president, Saint Mary’s • Sandra (Kaiser) Simon CST’72, member, Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees • Dr. Todd Reinhart, dean, Sciences and Health Professions • Maetzin Cruz-Reyes ’17, biochemistry major, Saint Mary’s • Michael Gostomski ’62, immediate past chair, Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees • Jim Nagle, vice president and project executive, Wight & Company To see more photos from the day, go to smumn.edu/photos. To see a video recap of the day, go to smumn.edu/ groundbreakingvideo. To watch live coverage of the construction progress, go to buildingtogether.smumn.edu. For an inside look at the building, go to smumn.edu/insidelook. To support this initiative, contact Audrey Kintzi at 507-457-1486 or akintzi@smumn.edu. ≠

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THE SCIENCES

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An artist rendering of the atrium in the Science and Learning Center.

Brother William addresses the groundbreaking ceremony attendees.

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Synonym

SCIEN

John C. Parmer’s family shared his personal photos from his days at Saint Mary’s.

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mous with

NCE

THE JOHN C. PARMER SCHOOL OF THE SCIENCES

John C. Parmer graduated from Saint Mary’s in 1950 with a degree in chemistry. Little did he know, at that time, that his last name would become synonymous with science instrumentation worldwide. In fact, the Cole-Parmer Instrument Company catalog can now be found on most university campuses, including Saint Mary’s. Parmer transferred to Saint Mary’s his second year of college, likely because he had appreciated the education he received from the Christian Brothers at De La Salle Institute in Chicago. There’s no doubt the Chicago native also yearned to spread his wings and felt the lure of the beautiful bluffs he frequently talked about. At Saint Mary’s, he excelled and particularly enjoyed classes with Dr. John Hoffman, a highly respected science educator who started the chemistry and physics departments. After graduation, Parmer went on to graduate school, but he decided the business sector was a better fit. At his first job, a regional laboratory supply business in Chicago, he became acquainted with Jerry Cole. In 1955, the two started the Cole-Parmer Instrument Company in a warehouse loft north of downtown Chicago. They flipped a coin to determine who would serve as president, and who would be vice president. “They literally started from scratch, took no salaries, and borrowed nothing,” John’s wife Carolyn Noonan Parmer said. They created their first 16-page catalog, sent to a well-developed mailing list of 40,000 names, using a mimeograph. From humble beginnings, the Cole-Parmer Instrument Company became an international supplier and manufacturer of laboratory and industrial equipment. Through the years, the business grew, adding employees, moving locations, increasing its customer base, reaching out internationally, and increasing its catalog size to as many as 2,000 pages. Today, Cole-Parmer operates from a 269,000-square-foot distribution center at its Vernon Hills, Ill., headquarters; a factory in Lake Barrington; and sales offices in Canada, the United Kingdom, and India. It has agents and distributors in many other countries. The business garnered a reputation for quality and innovation, and John earned a reputation for his strength of character as well as his business prowess. Carolyn said that John and Jerry both valued their employees. “There was a tremendous amount of respect back and forth,” she said. John also had a knack for knowing what to include in their catalog. He even developed some of Cole-Parmer’s proprietary products. The founder sold Cole-Parmer in 2001 to Fisher Scientific. John passed away in 2005, but his legacy continues to grow.

It is a fitting tribute that Saint Mary’s Winona Campus science departments now bear the name of this successful alumnus and entrepreneur. At the end of October, the Winona Campus science departments were named the John C. Parmer School of the Sciences. In addition, the John C. and Carolyn Noonan Parmer Private Foundation is partnering with the university in the development of the science initiative over the next six years. This collaboration will enable Saint Mary’s to develop its science curriculum, purchase equipment, build and renovate facilities including the new Science and Learning Center, hire faculty, endow teaching positions, provide scholarships, assist with placement of students in clinical practice, and assist career placement for graduates of the School of the Sciences. The Parmer family hopes that this partnership might inspire others to support the Saint Mary’s science initiative. Carolyn, trustee of the foundation, said that combining the science majors under a single named unit highlights the university’s strength and commitment to laboratory disciplines. “John devoted his life to serving laboratories worldwide through Cole-Parmer Instrument Company,” Carolyn said. “I know that John always felt that Saint Mary’s undergraduates require top-of-the-line science instruction so when they advance to graduate school, they will succeed. At the same time, Saint Mary’s graduates carry with them a moral background learned at Saint Mary’s. They bring that background with them not only to graduate school but to life, like ripples in a pond.” The Parmer Foundation’s partnership with Saint Mary’s science initiative is aimed at arming students with the skills and tools they require for success. “Our partnership is not limited to the construction of the new Science and Learning Center,” added John and Carolyn’s son, Raymond Parmer. “It’s about whatever is needed to enhance the profile of Saint Mary’s graduates in their professional and academic worlds.”

“John C. Parmer was an inspirational business leader, and his name and his strength of character are highly recognized and respected internationally.” —Brother William John and Carolyn have long been supporters of Saint Mary’s students. Motivated to help those less fortunate, in 1998 they established the John F. and Christine E. Parmer Scholarship (in honor of John’s parents) at Saint Mary’s to benefit full-time undergraduate students of color with demonstrated financial need. In 1982, Saint Mary’s gave the Distinguished Alumnus Award to John Parmer for his life’s work. “The Parmers are avid and long-time supporters of education at Saint Mary’s and beyond,” said Brother William. “We are thankful and honored that the Parmer family has chosen to partner with us in the realization of our vision for the sciences. John C. Parmer was an inspirational business leader, and his name and his strength of character are highly recognized and respected internationally.” ≠

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SAINT MARY’S

LIVING LAB Saint Mary’s students in a Plant Communities and Taxonomy class visit Cascade Meadow Wetlands and Environmental Science Center.

Environmental biology students assist with fish sampling at the property.

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With its diverse ecological system and resources, Cascade Meadow Wetlands and Environmental Science Center provides hands-on learning opportunities. Saint Mary’s students, whether studying prairie restoration, plant identification, or fish populations, are taking advantage of the living lab—owned and operated by Saint Mary’s University since June. The 90-acre site includes a 9-acre pond, surrounded by seven different types of wetlands. The site also contains a two-story LEED Platinum-certified education center, complete with large educational displays. A strong advocate for education and the environment, Jack Remick turned the wetland acreage in Rochester, Minn., into a public learning opportunity by founding Cascade Meadow in 2011 as a 501(c)(3) facility serving primarily school-aged children and local visitors. Remick’s goal was to support a conversation about the health of our communities by serving as a regional source for education on water, energy, and wetlands. This past summer, Saint Mary’s officially assumed ownership and operation of the center and has plans to expand on Remick’s vision. The property was transferred at no cost to the university, thanks to Remick’s generosity. Remick also made a financial investment to Saint Mary’s to assure a smooth transition and in support of future growth in programming beneficial to the Rochester area. Dr. Moni Berg-Binder, assistant professor of biology, said the facility is invaluable to her as an educator. “It is an important area of conservation biology and modern day ecology,” she said. “To be able to see this major prairie restoration effort (and other restorations) is extremely valuable from a learning perspective. It’s one thing to learn about it in a textbook; it’s another to experience it.” Cascade Meadow provided her Plant Communities and Taxonomy class with a variety of blooming plants to identify, some familiar, some not so familiar. As a course assignment, the class looked at one area on the property in particular, a prairie restoration in need of shifted management strategies. “Their assignment was to look at the current state of the restoration and come up with a recommendation of how to move forward, in line with the university’s plans for the site,” she said. “This assignment helped the students get involved in real-world applications.” In a partnership with the Biology Department, Saint Mary’s GeoSpatial Services, and staff from Cascade Meadow, these undergraduate students are helping to determine how best to utilize and protect the resources. A plan is now in place for the monitoring

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and management of ecosystem restorations at the site, first focusing on 14 acres of short- and tallgrass prairie restorations. “It was proposed that a prescribed burn be implemented in the spring and then likely chemical spot treatments of some of the invasive species that need to be controlled. There should be monitoring of prairie restoration through time to make sure the methods put in place are going to be effective,” Dr. Berg-Binder said. “There might also be some hand-pulling, typical management techniques for prairie restoration.” This plan will promote native plant growth while keeping exotic, invasive plants under control. “I wanted my students to learn about an important area of plant ecology, and this has real-world applications and was a fantastic opportunity for them to go out, witness it, and come up with a plan on their own,” she said. “This was not a topic we addressed too much in the classroom. This was a more independent, student-guided effort.” Last summer, Dr. Josh Lallaman, assistant professor of biology, took a couple of environmental biology majors to Cascade Meadow to assist with fish sampling. “Cascade Meadow is an unique environment to study fish populations,” he said. “The lake and surrounding area have been highly modified since the construction of the facility and surrounding wetlands. The entire area surrounding the lake has been restored to natural wetlands that are designed to capture and treat surrounding runoff and improve water quality.” Dr. Lallaman said his primary goal was to understand if the fish community has benefited from improvements to the surrounding area, and his secondary goal was to be able to provide baseline data to see if all of the surrounding changes are able to enhance and sustain a healthy fish population. They also began a project to monitor fish movement to see if the geothermal heat exchange system in the lake has any effect on fish behavior and health. As an added bonus, the public was invited to come and observe fish sampling techniques. And, one of the students involved is now using this data set as a basis for his senior research project. Dr. Lallaman said Saint Mary’s Countdown to College students also benefitted from using the facility last summer. “It gave them context for envisioning what environmental sustainability looks like,” he said.

“Use of the Cascade Meadow property really diversifies what we have to offer,” Dr. Lallaman added. “(Saint Mary’s is) located close to the river, we have the Prairie Island Field Station, and we have campus resources, but this provides us with new and different opportunities to look at environmental education and sustainability that we don’t have with our other facilities.” Next year, a Limnology class will take samples on the lake at Cascade Meadow, once it’s frozen over. “We could go out on the river or Lake Winona, but this is a man-made system, a rehabilitation system, that provides us unique opportunities,” Dr. Lallaman said. “Another interesting reason to go there during ice cover is that, from an aquatic research prospective, using the bottom of the lake as a geothermal heat exchange hasn’t really been studied. It’s fairly new, so there are opportunities to examine how global climate change can affect lakes. It’s an artificial warming system we can study and put into a bigger context.” Dr. Berg-Binder and Dr. Lallaman said Cascade Meadow holds tremendous possibilities for student research and student internships. Scott Walker ’91, M’98, Saint Mary’s associate vice president for partnerships-Rochester, and executive director of Cascade Meadow, said that in addition to increased usage by its own students, Saint Mary’s is increasing use of the facility by high school science classes in topics related to energy resources, water resources, and sustainability. “Our hope is to create a more robust partnership with area high schools in terms of science education,” he said. “We will also continue our programming for elementary school students and increase the scope of courses, all meeting a topic within Minnesota science standards.” In the future, Saint Mary’s plans to offer professional development opportunities for K-12 teachers within a STEM curriculum. Walker is pursuing additional ways to increase the center’s reach in the general Rochester population and to forge partnerships with area businesses for adult education opportunities in the health sciences, such as degrees and graduate certificates. In transferring ownership to Saint Mary’s, Jack Remick hopes envisions heightening awareness for the facility and increase its usage. “This is a mutually beneficial relationship,” he said. “Saint Mary’s students now have access to an invaluable environmental resource, and Cascade Meadow will be utilized to its fullest potential. I look forward to seeing some of Saint Mary’s ideas come to fruition.” ≠

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Reinhart Ready to

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As part of its bold new vision for excellence in the sciences, Saint Mary’s named Dr. Todd Reinhart to the newly created position of dean of sciences and health professions—overseeing programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels—in December. Dr. Reinhart comes to Saint Mary’s from the University of Pittsburgh, where he served multiple roles including professor of infectious diseases and microbiology, director of the Graduate School of Public Health Center for Lymphatic Immunobiology, and associate dean for faculty affairs. Prior to earning his Doctor of Science degree in cancer biology from Harvard University’s School of Public Health, Dr. Reinhart received his bachelor’s degree from Hamline University. Additionally, he served as a research associate and conducted postdoctoral work at the University of Minnesota Medical School.

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Highlights of his 20-year career in education include doubling master’s student enrollment, and establishing and leading a research program on HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases that achieved more than $7 million in federal funding. “A positive energy exists for shaping a new vision in the sciences at Saint Mary’s, and the new Science and Learning Center undoubtedly adds to that momentum and serves as a highly visible focal point for gathering input and garnering support for this vision,” he said during one of his first duties in this new role at Saint Mary’s groundbreaking ceremony for its new Science and Learning Center, Oct. 9 on the Winona Campus. “One component of vision that I bring to this position is continuing and expanding opportunities for students and faculty to engage in basic and applied research, both in the sciences and the health professions,” he added. “Preparing graduate and undergraduate students to contribute toward improving the world, and helping us face societal challenges of today and of tomorrow, has been at the center of my work.” Dr. Reinhart said the university’s goal is to become a regional center of excellence in training the next generation of science students and health professionals. This caliber of excellence, in part, depends on faculty-led research, and Dr. Reinhart is eager to play a role in securing funding to gain resources, developing partnerships and relationships, and enhancing academic programs—all with the goal of better serving the needs of our undergraduate and graduate students. “I have seen nothing but tremendous opportunity and commitment in the faculty here, and I’m really excited to be a part of it,” he said. Brother William said Dr. Reinhart will serve both the Twin Cities and Winona campuses, in an effort to synergize and realign the two areas. “When we created this academic leadership role we knew we needed someone who was forward-thinking, as well as someone with vast experience in research, education, and leadership,” Brother William said. “In this role, Dr. Reinhart will lead two strong and successful academic units—our undergraduate science programs that enroll about one quarter of our undergraduate students; and our Graduate School of Health and Human Services that is well established as a quality provider of bachelor’s and master’s in traditional and online modalities that educate some 1,700 adult students each year in a variety of health professions,” Brother William said. “Most importantly, we knew we needed someone who would believe in our mission and share our values. In Dr. Reinhart, we found all of these qualities. “It has been our goal to build on our remarkable historical legacy and move Saint Mary’s to a new level of academic excellence and achievement in the sciences and health professions, and I have every confidence that Dr. Reinhart will take us there,” Brother William said. ≠

Academic Updates As a result of a significant examination of university processes, the creation of the dean of sciences and health professions role—with responsibilities for both the College and the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs— was the initial move to organize the university around academic disciplines and programs to enhance the student experience. The university has continued this approach with the creation of two additional universitywide deanships and a return to a chief academic officer. Dr. Rebecca Hopkins ’94, M’00, C’05, D’15 serves as the university’s dean of education, providing leadership for the College School of Education and Graduate School of Education. Dr. Tom Marpe D’04 has assumed the role of dean of business and technology for the business programs in the College School of Business and the Graduate School of Business and Technology.

Dr. Rebecca Hopkins ’94, M’00, C’05, D’15

Brother Robert Smith, FSC ’76, Ph.D., has been appointed to the role of Chief Academic Officer. While he will maintain his current responsibilities as the vice president for the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs, he will work closely with each of the university deans to lead the academic affairs of the university. ≠

Dr. Tom Marpe D’04

Brother Robert Smith, FSC ’76, Ph.D.

“I have seen nothing but tremendous opportunity and commitment in the faculty here, and I’m really excited to be a part of it.” —Dr. Todd Reinhart SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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With the challenges facing longterm healthcare facilities today, the need for skilled, licensed, caring administrators has never been higher. Saint Mary’s University is filling that need as the only school in Minnesota offering a master’s program (the Master of Arts in Health and Human Services Administration) with a long-term care licensure preparation option. Graduate students can fulfill the educational preparation on campus in Minneapolis or Rochester, or with the fully online offering of the program. They also complete up to 400 hours in a hands-on practicum experience within a licensed facility.

D E L L CA

Saint Mary’s University is assisting Peter Momanyi ’13 and Kristel Lastine M’15 in preparing for careers as long-term healthcare administrators.

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P L E H TO Although Kristel Lastine M’15 and Peter Momanyi ’13 are both seeking positions as nursing home administrators, they couldn’t be more different. Lastine chose to take Saint Mary’s program online; Momanyi chose the face-to-face option on the Twin Cities Campus. Lastine spent the past 10 years as a career counselor in the Twin Cities area; Momanyi, originally from Kenya, is looking to advance his career in the long-term healthcare field. But when you ask each of them what has driven them to seek the M.A. in Health and Human Services Administration degree, their answers are identical. Both felt a calling to help the aging population, and both felt they could positively effect the most change by working in administration. SPRING 2016

KRISTEL LASTINE M’15

Lastine spent most of her career counseling others in their career explorations. One day, she decided that she would follow her own advice—to follow her interests. “I wasn’t passionate about what I was doing,” she said. “I had expected to stay in that position for about a year and move on, but life happens. As an undergraduate, I studied sociology and psychology, and I’ve always enjoyed working with aging adults.” With a young family at home, and a full-time job, Lastine decided an online curriculum best fit with her busy lifestyle. An online search led her to Saint Mary’s. “I’ve had a great experience. It’s what fit my life,” she said. “I’m very much a social person, so I wasn’t sure how I would like the experience, but it really worked well for me. Our cohort became close and we were able to get to know each other even though the classes were online.” She earned her degree in December 2015, passed her state and national licensure examinations and is currently looking for employment. She feels ready to tackle the large issues facing long-term healthcare facilities—such as addressing huge turnover rates that can often diminish the level of care given to residents. “One huge issue is the lack of pay,” she said. “It’s difficult to keep CNAs, LPNs, and RNs, and turnover rates are tremendous. I want to have a place that people call home, and where employees can have a career and continue advancing in those careers.”

PETER MOMANYI ’13

It was political turmoil that drove Momanyi to leave his native Kenya and come to the U.S. in 1996. Previously a high school chemistry teacher, Momanyi had difficulty finding similar positions in his new home. He decided to go back to school to become a Certified Nursing Assistant.

“What we do in class is very relevant. The faculty have been very encouraging. They’ve challenged us to focus on what we want as a person but also find where we can better society.” — Peter Momanyi ’13 Since 2002, he has worked at a Twin Cities nursing home and has made it his mission to help others. “It came quickly that I realized how important this work was,” he said. Knowing he was on the right path, he returned to school to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, and eventually he set his sights on becoming a Registered Nurse—but changed paths when he found Saint Mary’s M.A. in Health and Human Services Administration program. “I want to be in a position to help (nursing home residents) even more,” he said.

Momanyi is currently undergoing his practicum experience at Marantha Presbyterian Homes and Services in Brooklyn Center. He will earn his degree this summer. He calls his educational experience “transforming.” “What we do in class is very relevant,” he said. “The faculty members have been very encouraging. They’ve challenged us to focus on what we want as a person but also find where we can better society. “I’m hoping to give my modest contribution as an administrator. Having worked as a CNA and a nurse on the floor providing care has given me the tools to really understand that providing physical care is only one part. You need to look at the person more wholly,” he said. “Because people are living longer, often they have no living relatives. How do you make this person feel part of the community and happier during their last times on earth? We don’t do much in understanding the backgrounds of our patients besides what is written on their charts. It’s good for the administrator to connect with those who are giving direct care to these patients.” Momanyi also notes the challenges of retaining quality workers. “As an administrator, I’ll be in a better position to address these problems because I’ve lived through it,” he said. “Another thing I hope I can do is connect with legislators to detail what nursing homes are undergoing. Nursing homes need additional funding. There also is a need for a totally new way of thinking about how nursing homes do business. They need to be more innovative.”

TODAY’S LONG-TERM CARE

“This is not our grandmother’s nursing home any more,” said program director Susan Doherty M’12. “Because of procedural advances, people are now able to survive conditions they would not have previously,” she said. Long-term care facilities must be able to properly care for those who are medically fragile, often with two, three, or more chronic conditions. “These individuals need teams of people in a facility or care system who are skilled in caring for those who have very sophisticated needs,” she said. It isn’t just the aging population seeking this specialized care. Individuals who have had severe head injuries, those who are morbidly obese, those who have long-term effects from drug use, and other unique populations are in positions where they can no longer be cared for in their homes. “There can be many levels of care within one campus,” Doherty said. “So administrators with lean resources need to be very sophisticated.” The difficulty of finding skilled administrators is compounded when facilities are located in rural and remote areas. “Young people are not always interested in moving into rural communities,” she said. And, with the high number of consolidations and mergers, rural facilities are often left with no choice but to close or downsize or hope to be purchased by a larger organization. “These people are vulnerable because they do not have adequate services, so that’s one dimension we are targeting,” Doherty said. “At Saint Mary’s, because of our mission and the partnerships we have, we are also looking at placing administrators in communities that service diverse or vulnerable populations. Too often the administrative team doesn’t look like the population they are serving. We are providing that pathway to new Americans or secondgeneration Americans. “The administrator is the key variable for quality,” she said. “What makes a difference is not the brick and mortar, it’s an administrator who is high-caliber, competent, and stable in their role.” ≠ SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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USING NEW

Fort L’Huillier was founded by PierreCharles Le Sueur around 1700. Le Sueur had begun mining along the Blue Earth River, only to discover what he thought was copper ore was “blue” clay. When Le Sueur returned to the fort, he found it attacked and abandoned with no sign of the 20 original settlers. As the years passed, the location of the fort was lost. Numerous attempts to locate the fort, between 1835 to 1987, were unsuccessful. The site is considered historically significant because this French Contact Phase location is important in the early history of Minnesota and the Upper Minnesota Valley. In summer of 2014, Saint Mary’s students in the Advanced Modeling and Analysis GIS class researched the fort’s location for about a week. John Burke, an M.A. in Management student, volunteered with the Minnesota Historical Society and had previous background information about the missing fort. He shared his knowledge and garnered interest in the project, which fit with the course objectives: to explore “real-world” modeling scenarios with practical and applied scholarship. This past summer, as part of the MHS grant, students began validating and expanding upon previous research,

GIS TECHNOLOGY

TO FIND AN

ANCIENT FORT Today’s geospatial technology is being applied in the hunt for a 300-year-old historically significant site in Minnesota. Saint Mary’s M.S. in Geographic Information Science (GIS) program was awarded an $8,800 Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grant by the Minnesota Historical Society as part of efforts to find the historical location of Fort L’Huillier, believed to be located near Mankato.

Jared Langseth and Shay Gooder of Bear Creek Archeology conduct an auger test in search of artifacts.

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THE SCIENCES

SPRING 2016

John Ebert C’02, M’02, assistant professor and GIS program director, and M.S. in GIS student Zaid Alkhayyal C’15 review documents.

examining historical oral accounts and written documents for spatial clues. “We brought some newer technology to this project,” said John Ebert C’02, M’02, assistant professor and GIS program director. “We went through historic documents to find any special components that provide tangible mapping clues such as unique elevations or descriptive accounts detailing the fort’s location, such as ‘southern exposure located on the west side of the Blue Earth River near an inner bank corner.’ By effectively correlating as many of these clues together in one location, we determined where to conduct new site visits for archeological digs.” Cole Sutton C’15, who will complete his M.S. in GIS this year, said the experience was fun and helpful in preparing for the professional world. “We learned the importance of assuring all statements and conclusions are backed up by written evidence or research and spatial verification through GIS,” he said. “Given the historical nature of the project, it was tempting to extrapolate on ideas or individual variables. Therefore, it was very important to compile as much evidence as possible to back up our conclusions.” Once Saint Mary’s GIS graduate students identified the greatest potential locations for the site, archeologists began field investigations in November. Bear Creek Archaeology of Cresco, Iowa, has assisted with the project. The proposed fort location covers an area of approximately 5 acres. Testing at the proposed fort location started by conducting a preliminary assessment of the landforms present within, and immediately adjacent to, the project area. This assessment was completed by placing a series of soil probes throughout the project area and recording the soil profiles observed. Although some areas have been significantly disturbed through the construction of an industrial yard and the flood control levee, in the areas that remained intact, shovel/auger tests were conducted to test for archeological remains.

“It was fun to walk around and imagine Le Sueur and his crew coming up the Blue Earth River, setting up camp, and interacting with the native people,” said M.S. in GIS student Hannah Hutchins. “We met some archaeologists from Bear Creek Archeology and picked their brains about the techniques and methods they use. We discussed views and opinions on the Fort L’Huillier story. As archaeologists, their perspectives were a bit different from ours, but it was an exciting topic for all of us. This ‘dig’ was actually just limited soil probing and sifting, and we are hoping the analysis of the evidence gathered will provide positive results to justify more extensive digs in the future.” The presence of intact portions of landforms and sites within the project area provides some opportunities to

“We learned the importance of assuring all statements and conclusions are backed up by written evidence.” — Cole Sutton C’15 potentially date the material present and provide some indication of the temporal setting for these landforms and sites, which may prove useful in further determining whether or not it’s possible to find any materials associated with Fort L’Huillier. “We found some interesting leads that we’re pursuing,” Ebert said. “At this point we are conducting analysis of the findings and will be working on this to determine if any new leads warrant additional exploration.” ≠

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Dr. Jeanne Minnerath and senior Bridget Pethke ’16 met with Dr. Melanie Medecilo, left, and Dr. Willington O. Onuh, right, while visiting the Philippines as part of their Saint Mary’s University Collaborative Lasallian Research Grant work.

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FALL 2014

PARTNERING ON PLANT RESEARCH An ongoing collaborative research experience gave new meaning to the term longdistance learning. Nearly 8,000 miles apart, faculty and students from Saint Mary’s University and De La Salle University-Dasmariñas in the Philippines have collaborated on plant research, thanks to funds from a generous benefactor. As part of a Saint Mary’s University Collaborative Lasallian Research Grant, Dr. Jeanne Minnerath, associate professor of biology, and Bridget Pethke, a Saint Mary’s senior biology-pre-physical therapy major from New London, Wis., studied native plants of the Philippines and their anti-microbial activity. Throughout the summer students at De La Salle University-Dasmariñas collected specific plants and extracted chemicals from the leaves, stems, and roots and then shipped the chemicals, known as plant extracts, to Saint Mary’s, where Pethke and Minnerath examined their anti-microbial activity. Their goal was to determine whether the plants inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms including bacteria and fungi. Their research falls under the International Association of Lasallian Universities (IALU) research theme, “Food, Nutrition, and Health” with the focus area of food and human health. The goal of this Collaborative Lasallian Research Grant is to further the research agenda of IALU, collaborate with other institutions, and to promote research findings to assist those who are in need. In May, Pethke and Dr. Minnerath traveled to the Philippines to meet their educational partners, including Dr. Melanie Medecilo, director of University Research and professor in the College of Science, and Dr. Willington O. Onuh, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research. While there, they met with Dr. Medicilo’s students and spent time learning their lab procedures. The two also visited the De La Salle Health Sciences Institute and experienced the area’s native culture and sights. For Pethke (who is also on the Cardinal women’s basketball team), it was an unforgettable experience: she climbed a mountain, saw an active volcano, and experienced some of the country’s more impoverished areas, as well as its culture of generosity. “I’m very fortunate to have been able to travel to the Philippines. It was an opportunity I didn’t see happening in my lifetime,” Pethke said. “I’m glad to have shared this experience with Dr. Minnerath. And I found learning how to interact within a different culture invaluable.”

“I’m very fortunate to have been able to travel to the Philippines. It was an opportunity I didn’t see happening in my lifetime.” — Bridget Pethke ’16 Dr. Minnerath added, “This trip, and others I have taken, have made me realize how large our Lasallian community is and see that we all have the same goals even though we are thousands of miles apart.” As part of this ongoing collaboration, Dr. Minnerath said, they are hoping that Dr. Medicilo and others are able to travel to Minnesota this summer, to work in Saint Mary’s labs and to learn more about the natural environment of this area. Additionally, members of the same family of plants they are studying from the Philippines also grow in Minnesota, so a comparison study is being proposed. Dr. Minnerath presented the research results in September at the fourth annual International Lasallian Research Symposium at the Twin Cities Campus. Saint Mary’s Institute for Lasallian Studies and the Lasallian Region of North America (RELAN) co-sponsors the event, which draws more than 100 individuals from around the world to discuss the future needs and direction for Lasallian research. ≠ SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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A celebration of During his presentation at the Celebration of Excellence event this past May on Saint Mary’s Twin Cities Campus, Dr. Robert O’Dea ’67, event chair, reflected on his undergraduate college science experimentation. His attempts to wrangle his test subjects—hard-to-contain houseflies—were no doubt memorable. Dr. O’Dea told the crowd, “Like many of you, I owe much of my scientific and professional career to the inspiration and guidance that I received from Saint Mary’s.” Dr. O’Dea has had a lengthy career in medicine, first at the University of Minnesota Medical School and then at Abbott Labs in Illinois, where in 1998 he became global director of Clinical Pharmacology, and subsequently, director of Physician Education and Development, until his retirement in 2006. Presidential Award recipients Dr. John H. Hoffman ’51 and Dr. Robert A. Hoffman ’56—honored for their lifelong accomplishments during the Celebration of Excellence— likewise spoke about the educational foundation they received at Saint Mary’s. They’ve each gone on to accomplish amazing things in their careers as scientists, like helping to determine that there is water on Mars and placing instrumentation on NASA satellites.

“The preparation I received for life from Saint Mary’s has served me very, very well.” — Dr. John H. Hoffman ’51 “My bachelor’s thesis, which we all had to do at Saint Mary’s … was building instrumentation to measure the range of gamma rays in the air,” said Dr. Robert Hoffman. “That piqued in me an interest in the measurement of particles, both electrons and protons, which carried me through the rest of my life.” Now retired, Dr. Robert Hoffman was a space scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. His research involved the study of electric currents in space around the earth that produce magnetic storms and accompany the aurora. He designed instruments such as a low-energy electron detector for a number of satellite missions and led the science community in the development and implementation of scientific satellite missions. He continues to conduct research for NASA. Unique in the scientific world, the Hoffmans are the only set of brothers (or any immediate family members) who have had their instruments on the same NASA satellites, Atmosphere Explorers C and D. A magnetic ion mass spectrometer was John’s contribution to the NASA satellite missions and a low-energy electron detector was Robert’s. John Hoffman credited his success to role models in life, including his superb teachers at Saint Mary’s. “Over time I think the education I received, the preparation I received for life from Saint Mary’s has served me very, very well,” he said. “I commend Saint Mary’s for continuing the very excellent science programs that started me and my brother off early on.”

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Dr. John Hoffman spent seven years at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., developing miniaturized mass spectrometers for space flight, which were flown on Aerobee and Javelin rockets. In 1966, he joined the Graduate Research Center of the Southwest/The University of Texas at Dallas. His main interest was the study of atmospheric/ionospheric composition and isotopic ratios for which he has developed instrument packages that have flown on many rockets and satellites. He developed instruments for the Apollo 15, 16, and 17 lunar missions, for the Pioneer mission to Venus, for the European Space Agency’s Giotto mission to Halley’s Comet, and, most recently, as part of the Phoenix mission to Mars. A physics professor at UT Dallas for 49 years, Dr. John Hoffman has also served as head of the Department of Physics and as associate dean of the School of Science and Mathematics. Dr. O’Dea remarked that success stories of Saint Mary’s alumni aren’t all that unusual. In demonstration, Brother William reflected on a lengthy list of alumni and students who have made tremendous contributions to science. One can only imagine the greatness in store for the nine Saint Mary’s undergraduate students who presented their research at the annual gala. Nicholas Wojtynek ’15, for example, presented on “Epoxyeicosatrienoic Acid (EET) Analog EET-A Reduces Renal Apoptosis in Radiation Nephropathy.” Another student, Samanta Amatuzio ’15, spoke about the “Muscle Strength of Contraction and Fatigue Rate of Mus musculus When Treated with Creatine Mono-hydrate.” The now annual event was designed to celebrate the university’s longstanding legacy of excellence in the sciences, and also advance the sciences at Saint Mary’s. “Science and innovation are the legacy of Saint Mary’s, it is our reality today and it is our vision for tomorrow,” Brother William said. “This is a place where young people not only discover their potential, but also discover a vocation to make a positive contribution for the betterment of our nation and for the good of the world.” ≠ Brother William congratulates Presidential Award recipients Dr. John Hoffman ’51, left, and Dr. Robert Hoffman ’56, right. The Hoffmans are the only set of brothers (or any immediate family members) who have had instruments on the same NASA satellites, Atmosphere Explorers C and D.

SPRING 2016

EXCELLENCE Minnesota Celebration of Excellence Leadership Benefit gala chair Dr. Robert O’Dea ’67

Leadership committee Gayle (Yanchar) Bari ’74 Matthew Bilski ’07 Constance Budin ’13 Dr. Patrick Coleman ’67 Dennis Parzyck ’68 Nancy Wiltgen ’75

Sponsors

Generous sponsors for the evening: North American Banking Company SF Foundation Terrance K. ’76 and Kathleen (Conway) ’78 Russell Kaye O’Leary Dr. Robert ’67 and Marilyn O’Dea Dr. John H. Hoffman ’51 Dr. Robert A. Hoffman ’56

Amy Zawacki ’15 presents her research to Sister Clare Korte, retired science faculty member.

Audrey Kintzi, vice president for Development and Alumni Relations, right, explains the model for the new Science and Learning Center to Sandra Adducci.

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Brother Charles Severin CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE Saint Mary’s is set to once again celebrate the sciences in Chicago during the third annual Brother Charles Severin Celebration of Excellence Gala on Saturday, May 21, 2016. All alumni are invited to attend this annual gathering to advance the sciences at Saint Mary’s University. As part of its strategic plan, Saint Mary’s desires to be a destination for students interested in the sciences and the Brother Charles Severin environment. Part of this vision includes constructing a new $19 million state-of-the art facility on the Winona Campus, the university’s most ambitious building project to date. The gala returns to the elegant Union League Club of Chicago, site of the inaugural 2014 event, following the successful Twin Cities gathering in May 2015. Opportunities to support the science initiative are available via your attendance, sponsorship of a table of your friends and colleagues, or corporate sponsorship. Listen to our students present their most recent research, enjoy delicious food and good company, and hear Saint Mary’s plans for the future and how you can be part of the excitement. A highlight of the gala will be the presentation of Presidential Awards for Outstanding Merit to James M. Gentile ’68, Ph.D. and Anthony “Tony” Piscitiello ’69, M’82, AFSC. James M. Gentile ’68, Ph.D., is dean for the Natural & Applied Sciences at Hope College in Holland, Mich., and the past president of Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA), a Tucson, Ariz.-based foundation dedicated to science since 1912. A geneticist by training, Dr. Gentile

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THE SCIENCES

previously served as dean for the Natural Sciences at Hope College (the position to which he has now returned) where he also held an endowed professorship. He has conducted extensive research on the role of metabolism in the conversion of natural and xenobiotic agents into mutagens and carcinogens, with funding from the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the World Health Organization, among many other public and private foundations. He received his Ph.D. from Illinois State University and undertook postdoctoral studies in the Department of Human Genetics at the Yale University School of Medicine. He is the author of more than 150 research articles, book chapters, book reviews, and special reports, and he is a frequent speaker on issues involving the integration of scientific research and higher education. He assisted Saint Mary’s Science Task Force in 2013 in exploring growth in the sciences. He is the former editorin-chief of the international journal Mutation Research and past president of the U.S. Environmental Mutagen Society and the International Association of Environmental Mutagen Societies. Dr. Gentile also currently serves on many national boards, including the Science Friday Foundation Board (N.Y.), the Cures Now Board (Calif.), and the Biosphere2 Board. Anthony “Tony” Piscitiello ’69, M’82, AFSC, has been an esteemed and invaluable member of the university’s Lasallian community for the past 45 years, serving Saint Mary’s as an admission counselor, vice president for admission, executive vice president, and senior development director. Piscitiello, a Catholic layman, has in thought, word, and action helped the presidents of the university to ensure the future of the Lasallian Catholic educational mission at Saint Mary’s. He has served on numerous committees and task forces and has been, for generations of our graduates, the welcoming face of the university. He received the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award at Saint Mary’s University on Founders’ Day in 2013. For his service and dedication, he received affiliated De La Salle Christian Brother honors in 2014. ≠

SPRING 2016

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

BROTHER CHARLES SEVERIN

CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE A BENEFIT GALA ADVANCING THE SCIENCES AT SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA

Saturday, May 21, 2016 5:30 p.m.

GALA HIGHLIGHTS 4 p.m. CELEBRATION MASS Saint Peter’s Church 110 West Madison St. Chicago

5:30 p.m. STUDENT RESEARCH EXHIBIT AND COCKTAIL RECEPTION The Crystal Room, 5th floor Union League Club of Chicago 7 p.m. DINNER AND PROGRAM The Dining Room, 6th floor

Union League Club of Chicago

PROGRAM TO INCLUDE

$350 per person

Presentation of the Saint Mary’s Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit

65 West Jackson Boulevard Chicago

($220 is tax-deductible)

R.S.V.P. requested by May 1, 2016. Please register online at SMUMN.EDU/SCIENCEGALA, 507-457–6647 or call call 507-457-6647. or return the enclosed card. Formal attire requested Black tie optional Limited seating available

James M. Gentile ’68, Ph.D. Anthony “Tony” Piscitiello ’69, M’82

President’s Remarks Moving forward and preparing for the future

Dr. Phil Cochran ’77 Tribute

DESSERT

THE 2016 CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE COMMITTEE HONORARY CHAIRS: Betty Kabara Robert H. Wheeler ’67 LEADERSHIP CHAIRS Dr. Robert W. ’76 and Dr. Ann (O’Connor) ’77 Trauscht Joseph A. ’87 and Ann Marie (Brooks) ’85 Hettinger LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE Nancy Lorenz Cassato ’76 Skip Cassato ’75 Dr. James ’79 and Anne (Lock) ’79 Dolan Dr. John ’77 and Joanie (Fallon) CST’78 Domanico William Figel ’76 Frank Howard ’76 Deborah (Cantieri) Kolb ’77 Dr. Melissa Launhardt ’08 Lori (Nelson) Quinn ’80 Janet Mongoven Rapp ’77 Adam Stasica ’07, M’11 Joseph Sweeney ’81 For more information, visit: www.smumn.edu/sciencegala.

A sculpture of Brother Charles Severin.

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Students join U.S. Pope Pilgrimage

Marissa Kinzer ’19

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A PILGRIMAGE

SPRING 2016

Twelve Saint Mary’s undergraduates watched history unfold Sept. 24 in Washington, D.C., as Pope Francis made his first trip to the United States. These students—chosen for their leadership roles on campus— watched as Pope Francis addressed a joint session of Congress via a live Jumbotron broadcast from the West Front lawn of the nation’s Capitol. After his Congressional address, a first in U.S. history, Pope Francis also made a brief appearance on the West Front lawn, which overlooks the National Mall. For junior Brianna Torres, a biology major from Chicago, the trip was especially meaningful as she was confirmed at Saint Mary’s last year on her birthday. “I was raised Catholic and had drifted, so to be confirmed was me finding my way back home,” she said. “I cried when I found out I was chosen to go. It’s something you never think in your whole life will happen to you. This experience is going to help us do what we need to do to better the world. The Pope is a good man who speaks to our generation in a way that I have not seen before.” Stephanie Schmidt, a sophomore elementary education major from Plainview, Minn., agrees that as college students, Pope Francis’ message was especially timely as it will help to guide their paths. “We are the future,” she said. “We need to make good decisions so that we can make good contributions to society.” Abram Whitebird, a sophomore history/social studies major from White Bear Lake, Minn., said he has closely followed Pope Francis’ papacy and believes strongly in his messages of acceptance and his commitment to the poor.

Maetzin Cruz-Reyes, a junior biochemistry major from Taopi, Minn., said, “This experience meant so much to me as it reaffirmed that I am where I need to be and that I chose correctly in wanting to be welcomed into the Catholic Church. Being in D.C., with people who shared the same faith and viewpoints made

“We need to make good decisions so that we can make good contributions to society.” — Stephaine Schmidt ’18

me love even more the community I joined, and I hope to join their efforts to make the world a better place for all.” Dr. Tim Gossen ’01, M’05, D’14, vice president for mission, accompanied the students. “As a Lasallian Catholic and American university, our students benefitted immeasurably from simply being present. But it was also a unique opportunity to integrate faith and reason, Christian identity, leadership, and civic responsibility,” he said. “I hope Francis’ deep commitment to preaching and living the gospel will have an ongoing impact on our students.” U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) secured the tickets for Saint Mary’s students. Saint Mary’s is grateful to Sen. Klobuchar for helping to provide our students with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.≠

Students attending were: Maetzin Cruz-Reyes ’17 (Taopi, Minn.), Lucas Gerads ’19 (Saint Cloud, Minn.), Marissa Kinzer ’19 (Aitkin, Minn.), Javi Madrid ’18 (Tucson, Ariz.), Joe Malinao ’17 (Savage, Minn.), Cassie Ricker ’16 (Oakdale, Minn.), Stephanie Schmidt ’18 (Plainview, Minn.), Mark Schumacher ’16 (Perham, Minn.), Matthew Smaron ’16 (Maple Plain, Minn.), Briana Torres ’17 (Chicago), Anna Washburn ’19 (Kenyon, Minn.), and Abram Whitebird ’18 (White Bear Lake, Minn.). Joining them is Dr. Tim Gossen ’01, M’05, D’14, vice president for mission.

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Brother William hoists the Stanley Cup with John McDonough ’75, president and CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks.

FINDING

Saint Mary’s students show their excitement during the rally.

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THE STANLEY CUP

SPRING 2016

Addressing a roaring, pom pom-shaking crowd in Gostomski Fieldhouse, Brother William gestured to the special guests gathered with him on stage. “Today is celebrating the possibility of imagination,” he said with a smile. “Of the Blackhawks’ decision a few years ago to hire well and hire Saint Mary’s alums as their employees.” John McDonough ’75, president and CEO of the NHL champion Chicago Blackhawks, made another triumphant return to his alma mater last fall. He brought along important messages about leadership, two other successful Saint Mary’s alumni who are Blackhawks employees, and—once again—he brought the Stanley Cup back home to Terrace Heights. Although it’s arguably the sports world’s most revered team trophy, seeing, touching, and even kissing the Stanley Cup wasn’t the most memorable moment for Saint Mary’s students. McDonough’s messages took center stage. The message was simple—but its impact was extraordinary. “Find a goal, and go after it,” was a key phrase Macki Fadness, a senior undergraduate education major, took away from the university-sponsored inaugural 2015-16 leadership series event on Sept. 10. The two-time captain of the Cardinal women’s hockey team and team leader for the Saint Mary’s volleyball squad was able to hear McDonough speak on leadership and success three times throughout the day and each time a different message resonated with her.

“Being part of a team involves every person—meaning for John McDonough it included the business people, coaches, players, and anyone who is a member of the Blackhawks organization. That really hit home for me, because it’s the same here at Saint Mary’s,” Fadness said. “When one of our teams is succeeding it is because of the efforts of everyone— coaches, managers, players, and anyone else involved— working together toward the common goal.” McDonough’s remarks—stressing the importance of strong teamwork, as well as drive and determination— resonated with Fadness, who said this advice will help her in sports, academics, and beyond, including as she pursues a career as a teacher and eventually a school administrator/ leader. Mike Mezzano, a senior captain for the Cardinal men’s hockey team, was also impacted by McDonough’s messages, but also by his actions. “Having Mr. McDonough back on campus was something that you never think about experiencing when you go to college,” he said. “Not many students can say they attend a university that has an individual with the amount of success he has, and yet he’s willing to take time out of his busy schedule to spend time with us,” Mezzano said. “To me, it was important to have him back on campus because it shows that anything is possible.” Mezzano, an accounting/ finance major whose goal is to pursue investment banking, asset management, or fixed-income sales and trading, said

A GOAL

Continued on page 26

John McDonough ’75 was the university’s first speaker in a leadership series on the Winona Campus.

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he thought McDonough’s message about the importance of getting to know people was important. “I still remember the first time he came with the Stanley Cup (in 2013), and he talked to all the student-athletes and told us to always call people by their names—to get to know people on a personal level,” Mezzano said. McDonough encouraged students to reflect and answer the following questions: “What do you love? What’s your passion? What drives you? What do you want to do? What do you want to achieve?” He added, “Take serious inventory and push yourself to the limit and say, ‘I’m going to take this seriously.’ I look for young, enthusiastic, dynamic people who want to be part of something that’s never been done before.” Saint Mary’s 2008 alumni who are also current members of the Chicago Blackhawks organization, Eric Lear and Adam Gill, were two such hires. Lear serves as team reporter-new media for Chicago Blackhawks.com, and Gill is video coach for the Blackhawks’ Rockford Icehogs affiliate. Both alumni visited with students and discussed their experiences since graduation. In addition to these leadership conversations with students, the day also included a luncheon with Winona-area business leaders—during which Winona Mayor Mark Peterson presented McDonough with a proclamation declaring Sept. 10, 2015 as “John F. McDonough Day” in Winona, as well as a Saint Mary’s community rally, and a public Stanley Cup viewing. And, while messages of leadership and success rang loud and clear, the big silver symbol of success drew more than 800 enthusiasts to campus to have their photograph taken with the prized trophy. “It was surreal having the Stanley Cup at Saint Mary’s,” said Fadness. “I am still slightly in disbelief that I touched the

“You can leave Saint Mary’s as a student, but Saint Mary’s never leaves you.” — John McDonough ’75 same Cup that so many successful people have touched. Elite hockey players all over the country work hard toward hoisting the Stanley Cup at the end of the year, and to have the honor of getting to see it up close and personal is an experience I will never forget.” “I think one of the coolest parts of the entire day was just having the excitement on campus to have both Mr. McDonough and the Stanley Cup here,” Mezzano said. “Also, being a hockey player, I think it means a little bit more because growing up, that is the ultimate dream—to win the Stanley Cup.” McDonough told the gathered crowd that Saint Mary’s is where his dreams began. “This is a magical place, and I can’t wait for people to ask me where I went to college,” he said. You can leave Saint Mary’s as a student, but Saint Mary’s never leaves you. “I believe that everybody who is here today, everybody who has ever attended this university, all of the student athletes, every one of you have your fingerprints on this Stanley Cup.” ≠ To see photos from the event, go to smumn.edu/photos. To see a video highlight of the day, go to smumn.edu/ mcdonoughvisit.

Several opportunities were presented for Saint Mary’s students, alumni, employees, and the greater community to spend some time with the Stanley Cup. Julie (Biesanz) Gardner ’85 kissed the Stanley Cup.

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THE STANLEY CUP

SPRING 2016

The Saint Mary’s University men’s and women’s Cardinal Hockey teams joined John McDonough ’75 for a photo.

John McDonough ’75, president and CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks, is joined by two 2008 Saint Mary’s alumni, Eric Lear (left) and Adam Gill (right), both of whom work for the Chicago Blackhawks organization.

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ALUMNI ENRICH CAMPUS LIFE This year numerous alumni returned to Saint Mary’s to share their time and talents with students. Just a few of those talents have included singing songs about fanny packs and unicorns; performing Grammy-awardwinning, toe-tapping bluegrass banjo music; and detailing meaningful stories about serving in Iraq as an Army chaplain.

Ryan Hinton ’00

Ryan Hinton ’00 hadn’t returned to campus since 2001, when he came “home” to put himself in the right frame of mind to deploy, to serve God and the U.S. military as an Army chaplain assistant. After graduating from Saint Mary’s with a theology degree, he enlisted in the Army where he served from 2000 to 2004, including a tour in Iraq and a peacekeeping mission in Kosovo. He is currently the director for the Office of Family Life for the Archdiocese of Hartford and still serves as the state chaplain assistant for the Connecticut Army National Guard. This time he returned as a veteran with a unique viewpoint to share on Veterans Day. His visit included a Campus Ministrysponsored Dine with the Divine and a presentation during the Veterans Day program at the Winona Campus Veterans Memorial. At the Veterans Memorial, he stood before the focal point, a piece of illuminated, etched glass that reads, “Peace Through Service,” as he addressed that theme. “My personal spiritual charge has been to bring God’s peace to those touched by our military services. It was not, and is not, an easy or popular task,” he said. “Ask a service member, ‘Why do you serve?’ and you will find many answers. Some will range from thoughts of duty and honor; others will reflect obligation and tradition. Others honestly state they were out of options, that they were at a crossroads in their lives. But as I look back at my service, I would like to try to give a voice to the answer that presented itself to me in Iraq. “In April 2003, while conducting a medical aid mission in Baghdad, my team was notified of an open garbage pit that contained rocket propelled grenades. The local Iraqi leadership came to us for help because the garbage pit was located in the middle of a heavily populated and traveled area. We immediately went to the site and secured it, and I took my post on a main road. My team coordinated with the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team to come in and take care of the ordinance so that it could not harm the local population. After about two hours in the location waiting for EOD to arrive, a crowd began to surround our location. After some time of staring and pointing, they began coming up to ask us questions. “Within this crowd a woman with three girls ranging in age from 12 to 20 began moving past my position. She continued past me for a moment, and then she turned around. She left the three girls, who huddled together, and she began to approach me directly. As she came closer one could see that she was tired and scared, but also that she had a question that needed to be answered. She wanted to ask a very personal question, and she asked in broken English about the planes and the bombs that had devastated her community. Then she asked me directly, ‘Are they coming to kill me?’ To which I replied, ‘No.’ I could see that this response took her by surprise as she and others in Iraq were being told we were there to kill them. “Then she asked with tears running down her face if I hated Iraqis. Again I said, ‘No.’ I tried to express the fact that I respected the Iraqi people and that we were there to help as best we could. She did not quite understand my words or understand my meaning, and so I took her shaking right hand and placed it in between both of my hands, raised it to my heart and said, ‘Peace for you and me.’ Hinton urged others to remember the veterans of Saint Mary’s University and honor their “Peace Through Service” stories.

Bryan Atchison ’08 and Neil Olstad ’08

Sgt. Ryan Hinton ’00

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During the past 10 years, Koo Koo Kanga Roo’s dynamic rhyming and rapping interactive dance party duo, Bryan Atchison ’08, and Neil Olstad ’08, have been entertaining the young and the young-at-heart with songs about cat parties, unicorns, chicken burritos, ninjas, minivans, and more.

SPRING 2016

Their catchy little ditties lead audiences of all ages to bounce and chant to lyrics like, “I want a PB&J but I want … NO CRUST. I said I want … NO CRUST. No Crust. No Crust. Make a sandwich we can trust.” By the second lyric, the audience already knows the appropriate times to raise their fists in unity with the battle cries of “No crust.” And they do, enthusiastically, regardless of how they stand on the whole crust issue. It’s a system that works for the duo who have performed throughout the U.S., U.K. and Canada, either opening for bands or headlining themselves. They’ve played with everyone from Reel Big Fish and Frank Turner to Yo Gabba Gabba and The Aquabats. The two met as roommates in Saint Edward’s residence hall their freshman year. Olstad, a Music Industry major, and Atchison, a Secondary Education major, discovered a quirky kinship early on. They played with a few bands that, as Atchison says, “bent the idea of what a band is” by incorporating crowd participation, drum machines, costumes, and themes. Koo Koo Kangaroo was born from an annual battle of the bands grouping. “We proudly accepted last place,” Atchison said. From there, Koo Koo had nowhere to go but up. Through the years, it has grown immensely in popularity. Adults and kids seem to flock to the fun music that has people singing and dancing along. Many publications have made note of the Twin Cities music artists. They even have dance-a-long videos in GoNoodle that young school children are using as movement breaks. One piece of advice: Good luck getting the lyrics to “Holy Cow—that girl’s got a unibrow” out of your subconscious. “Once you grow your unibrow out fully, the song stops. We don’t understand it,” Atchison said.

Bryan Atchison ’08 and Neil Olstad ’08 of Koo Koo Kanga Roo

Greg Cahill ’68

This past fall, 1968 Saint Mary’s alumnus Greg Cahill returned to Winona with his Grammy-nominated bluegrass band The Special Consensus for a performance at Saint Mary’s Page Theatre. “Being back on campus was a bit mind-boggling,” he said. “It has grown beyond my wildest dreams. I visited with the students rehearsing for Blue Angel after our performance, and they were just great to see and hear and talk with.” Cahill too enjoyed performing music as a student. “My favorite memories of Saint Mary’s include the camaraderie within the student and faculty community, and the enjoyment of playing music with my friends Pat Frawley ’67 and Nancy Pipal CST’68 as the folk group the Rye Town Singers,” he said. “We shared many wonderful memories!” Although he also was a music aficionado, Cahill said he had no idea what he’d do for a career when he graduated. He served in the Army, became a case worker, and eventually became a director of a consortium of youth service organizations in the Chicago area. He decided to play music full-time for a year to “get it out of his system.” Music moved from a hobby to a career in 1975 when The Special Consensus, a four-person acoustic bluegrass band, formed in Chicago. The band has released 17 recordings and has appeared on numerous National Public Radio programs and cable television shows, including The Nashville Network and the Grand Ole Opry. International tours have brought the band to Australia, Canada, Europe, Ireland, South America, and the United Kingdom. The Special C has appeared in concert with many symphony orchestras nationwide and the 2012 band release Scratch Gravel Road (Compass Records) was Grammy-nominated for Best Bluegrass Album. Two songs on the 2014 release “Country Boy—A Bluegrass Tribute to John Denver” received awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) for Recorded Event of the Year and Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year. “I have never looked back,” he said. “The only advice I might offer is to follow one’s heart. Playing music for a living is not just a job or profession—it truly is who you are. It is a beautiful and powerful way to connect with people and to interact in the real world,” Cahill said. “But it is also very difficult to make a viable living. It does take dedication and determination because one has to create their own opportunities as a musician. I don’t make a huge amount of money making music but I am so thankful and happy to have been able to do what I feel I was born to do in life.” ≠

The Special Consensus featuring Greg Cahill ’68, center right.

As The Special Consensus toured California, they stayed with Pat “PK” Frawley ’67 with whom Cahill shared an apartment while attending Saint Mary’s. They brought Frawley on stage, the first time in 49 years that they shared a stage together. SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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S W E Nand VIEWS The importance of promises Alex Sheen shares important messages in ‘because I said I would’ presentation In August, nationally acclaimed speaker and philanthropist Alex Sheen shared a powerful message with Saint Mary’s students about how the promises we make and keep—and those we choose to dishonor—define us and this world. Sheen came up with the concept for “because I said I would,” a social movement and nonprofit dedicated to the betterment of humanity through promises made and kept, after his father died of cancer in 2012. Looking back, Sheen described his father—and his inspiration—as a hardworking man who may never have achieved fame or fortune, but was a man of his word. At his father’s funeral, Sheen created business cards imprinted with the words “because I said I would,” on which people could post their promises. Since then, promise cards have been offered at no cost to more than 3.15 million people in more than 153 countries. To demonstrate his commitment, Sheen committed to volunteering at 52 different nonprofit organizations in a single year. He also walked 245 miles across Ohio to raise awareness about sexual assault and to fulfill a promise to the three Cleveland women who were held captive for 10 years. At the end of his walk, he received a hug from the mother of one of those victims. Sheen’s work has gained attention from major news outlets such as CNN, ABC World News with Diane Sawyer, The TODAY Show, Good Morning America, The Los Angeles Times, and NPR. Sheen has also gained visibility by giving three TED talks and by making motivational presentations across the globe. “Sheen had a great message about standing by your commitments that was relatable for everyone,” student attendee Chloe Morrison ’17 said. “His presentation was a great way to kick off the school year.” The Cardinal women’s soccer team completed promise cards and used Sheen’s message for character and team-building long before knowing Sheen would come to campus to speak. They were able to connect with Sheen following his public presentation. Sheen’s message closely resonates with Saint Mary’s mission and with its goal to promote leadership development. “Alex Sheen’s message is a powerful one that is especially important in today’s society,” said Chris Kendall ’79, M’95, associate vice president, Office of Campus Services. “Sheen’s message speaks to the importance of honoring the commitments and goals we set as individuals and professionals, and how honoring those commitments can better our lives and the lives we touch.” ≠

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NEWS AND VIEWS: UNDERGRAD UPDATES

Above: A student shares a promise. Below: Alex Sheen shares his messages and poses with Saint Mary’s students.

FALL 2014 SPRING 2016

Saint Mary’s students work among small groups and utilize technology in a newly renovated classroom.

Innovation and renovation Since the completion of the Winona Campus master plan last summer, a number of initiatives are underway to meet the needs of our students, enhance learning, and augment their overall residential experience. Student learning areas Saint Mary’s renovations have also been targeted at enhancing student learning and encouraging connectivity and collaboration. Construction was completed just in time for fall classes in the Hendrickson Center and Griffin Hall. The World Room, Room 181, and the gathering lounge located between the two areas were enhanced. In addition to utilizing new technology in both classrooms, the layout and furniture enable these learning spaces to be easily reconfigured for small-group and large-group discussions. Residence halls A revised approach for student progression through the residence halls will commence with the reopening of Saint Yon’s Hall in the fall of 2016. Renovations are underway now to transform Saint Yon’s into apartment-style living for juniors and seniors.

Also, planning work continues for a new residence hall. The preliminary concept envisions a residence hall for sophomores with a variety of living spaces. Initial placement has the hall located in proximity to Gilmore Creek and the Page Theatre. Athletics In athletics, Max Molock Field and the Cardinal softball field obtained noticeable facelifts last fall. The project started with a generous donation for a new scoreboard, which extended to installing new scoreboards on both fields. In addition, the chain-link backstops from both fields were removed and replaced with knee wall and netting. The knee wall—a concrete wall poured 4 feet below ground and 2 feet above ground—provides a functional and aesthetic backstop. The outside is formed in a stone foundation and the inside will be padded in navy blue. And, the dugouts received new roofs and siding, the first-base dugouts were extended, and the press boxes were moved to the homeplate end of the dugouts. These enhancements help Saint Mary’s recruit and retain talented student-athletes and attract and retain outstanding coaches. Upgraded facilities support and promote our talented Cardinal athletes and affirm Saint Mary’s commitment to excellence in athletics.≠

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M.A. in Philanthropy and Development celebrates 25 years Fundraising professionals from England, Canada, and throughout the United States discovered last summer that the path to successful philanthropic efforts is universal. Alumni, students, and staff from Saint Mary’s M.A. in Philanthropy and Development program gathered at the Winona Campus in celebration of the program’s 25th anniversary. Guest speaker Adrian Sargeant, the world’s foremost expert on research in fundraising, addressed how and under what circumstances organizations develop exceptional fundraising. Sargeant is consistently voted one of the top 10 most influential people in the field by readers of Professional Fundraising Magazine and currently serves as the director of the Centre for Sustainable Philanthropy at Plymouth University, England. The program, which welcomes students from across North America and beyond, features a concentrated schedule of summer classes combined with online study. Participants are fundraising professionals from some of the country’s most prestigious for-profit and nonprofit organizations. As part of the festivities, the university honored the late Tim Burchill ’68, M’00, who co-created the Philanthropy and Development program in 1991 and taught each summer. Well respected for his work, Burchill was an active and successful fundraiser and served as the national director and ethics chair for the Association of Fundraising Professionals. ≠ To learn more about the M.A. in Philanthropy and Development program, go to smumn.edu/philanthropy.

Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the M.A. in Philanthropy and Development program are, from left: Simone Joyaux, program instructor; Adrian Sargeant, guest speaker, Dr. Jim Ollhoff, program director; Barb Burchill, widow of the late Tim Burchill ’68, M’00 who co-created the program; and Audrey Kintzi, instructor and vice president for Development and Alumni Relations.

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Honorary doctorate recipients In honor of the Catholic Church’s Year of Consecrated Life, Saint Mary’s University bestowed five honorary doctorates to individuals who have devoted their lives in service to Church and society. Saint Mary’s chose to celebrate especially those Brothers and Sisters who have attempted by word and deed to serve the Church and to bring compassion and the love of God to the sometimes forgotten and often marginalized members of society. Sister Generose Gervais, OSF Sister Generose Gervais, OSF, a Franciscan Sister and former Saint Mary’s Hospital administrator in Rochester, Minn., was presented with an honorary doctorate at the May commencement ceremony in Winona. Sister Generose was awarded a Doctor of Humanities degree, honoris causa, for her commitment to Catholic healthcare and for her many years of service at Saint Mary’s Hospital, where she inspired others by focusing, first and foremost, on the needs of the patients. The award further honors her for helping to establish and lead the Poverello Foundation, which provides support for men, women, and children who need help paying for the care received at Saint Mary’s Hospital. The award stated that Sister Generose has, for more than 75 years, “embraced and embodied the charism of the Sisters of the Order of Saint Francis and has shared that charism through her institutional leadership and personal interactions, never failing to see Christ’s presence in those with whom she has journeyed.” Brother Gerard Rummery, FSC Brother Gerard Rummery, FSC, was presented with an honorary doctorate at our Lasallian Summer Retreat in Farmington, Minn. Brother Gerard was awarded a Doctor of Humanities degree, honoris causa, for his years of service to the De La Salle Christian Brothers as a leader on the international level. The award recognizes Brother Gerard’s 65 years of service to the worldwide Lasallian family. Brother Gerard has been committed to the continuation of the Brothers’ shared mission with Lasallian partners, especially in his role as a teacher at the Buttimer Institute of Lasallian Studies and at the Lasallian Leadership Institute; facilitator of Lasallian Summer Retreats at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and Saint Mary’s College of California; and presenter at countless local, national, and international Lasallian retreats and conferences. He has also contributed greatly to the quality of Lasallian resources and publications and to a deeper appreciation of religious education in the modern world. Brother Gerard has been recognized by the Catholic Church as a renowned leader, scholar, historian, and teacher who has touched the hearts of those he encounters by willingly and graciously sharing the love of Christ and by inspiring his learners with the vision of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, founder of the De La Salle Christian Brothers and patron saint of teachers. SPRING 2016

Brother Philip Rofrano, FSC Brother Philip Rofrano, FSC, was presented with an honorary doctorate at the June commencement ceremony in Minneapolis. Brother Philip was awarded a Doctor of Psychology degree, honoris causa, for his inspirational leadership as founder and executive director of the Martin De Porres Group Homes in Springfield Gardens, N.Y. The award recognized that Brother Philip has celebrated 50 years of service as a De La Salle Christian Brother and dedicated 40 years of service at Martin de Porres Group Homes, where he mentored men and women who cared for those often referred to as “the least, the last, and the lost.” Sister Carol Keehan, DC, and Sister Sharon Holland, IHM Sister Carol Keehan, DC, and Sister Sharon Holland, IHM, were presented with honorary Doctor of Humanities degrees, honoris causia, at the January commencement ceremonies on the Twin Cities Campus. A member of the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, Sister Carol Keehan is the ninth president and CEO of the Catholic Health Association of the United States. She is responsible for all association operations and leads CHA’s staff at offices in Washington, D.C., where she is based, and in St. Louis. Sister Carol worked in administrative and governance positions at hospitals sponsored by the Daughters of Charity for more than 35 years. For her dedication to “carrying on the healing ministry of Jesus Christ” she was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2010. She was also awarded the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (Cross for the Church and Pontiff) by Pope Benedict XVI. The honorary doctorate recognizes Sister Carol for nearly a halfcentury of service to the Church and society as a tireless advocate for the poor. Sister Sharon, a member of the Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, has been a canon lawyer since 1979 and has served Catholic religious Brothers, Sisters, and priests and their religious orders and institutes for more than two decades through her office and as a member of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic life. A sought-after consultant and speaker, Sister Sharon also served for five years as part of the Archdiocese of Detroit Tribunal and was an assistant professor of canon law at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Additionally, Sister Sharon ministered in the Congregation for Religious and Secular Institutes and was elected to the presidency of the U.S. Leadership Conference of Women Religious. She returned to Monroe in 2009 and serves as a canonical consultant. She has served as a trusted adviser and cherished friend to many in leadership in religious orders ≠

Sister Sharon Holland

Sister Carol Keehan

Sister Generose Gervais

Brother Gerard Rummery

Brother Philip Rofrano

NEWS AND VIEWS: ALL UNIVERSITY NEWS

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Advancing the common good through research Advancing the common good was at the core of the 2015 International Lasallian Research Symposium that drew more than 130 people from 30 institutions and nine countries to the Saint Mary’s University Twin Cities Campus this past fall. The September event was Saint Mary’s fourth annual Lasallian research symposium. Researchers, educators, administrators, and social service professionals came from Brazil, Colombia, France, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Palestine, the Philippines, and the United States to be part of the symposium featuring three keynote addresses, 35 breakout sessions (in the areas of educational innovation, environmental sustainability, and health/nutrition), eight collaborative round tables, as well as informal networking opportunities. The three keynote addresses were as follows: 1. “Lasallian Research in the 21st Century” by Brother Robert Schieler, FSC, Superior General of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, based in Rome, Italy. 2. “Human Genetics and Cleft Palate: A Lasallian University’s Research Contribution” by Dr. Hashem Yousef Shahin, Professor of Human Genetics at Bethlehem University in Bethlehem, West Bank, Palestine. 3. “U.S. Lasallian Universities: Serving the Underserved” by a panel of six professionals from Lasallian universities located throughout the U.S., including Saint Mary’s. To see the conversation from this year’s three-day event, search Twitter for #LasallianResearch. The 2016 event is scheduled for Sept. 25-27, again in Minneapolis.

Don Regan receives Presidential Award Brother William presented the Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit to longtime supporter Donald Regan during a fall commencement ceremony Oct. 10 on the Saint Mary’s Twin Cities Campus. The award was presented to Regan, founder of Premier Banks, for his remarkable life as a committed Catholic, banker, business owner, philanthropist, and family man. Saint Mary’s honored Regan for demonstrating throughout his professional career and personal life the university’s core commitments to civic responsibility and ethical leadership. Born and raised in LeRoy, Minn., Regan attended Saint Mary’s undergraduate, residential campus in Winona from 1947-49. He and his wife Jean, strong advocates for education, have generously contributed to Saint Mary’s in support of scholarships and athletics. Regan has also contributed generously to the communities in which he began his thriving banking business and in which he and Jean have raised seven children—the Maplewood and North St. Paul areas. Likewise, Premier Banks supports countless community-service projects around the state. Regan has earned accolades throughout his successful career; most recently he was named the 2015 Banker of the Year by the Northwestern Financial Review, a trade publication serving Midwestern states. The designation recognizes Regan’s dedication to community banking and Premier’s success after its modest beginning 40 years ago from a trailer in Maplewood. Under Regan’s leadership, Premier, which started out as the smallest commercial bank in the state, is now one of the largest boasting three charters in Minnesota with a billion dollars in assets. Regan also successfully built a family-owned business that now operates 1,400 school and charter buses. ≠

Photos from the 2015 symposium are online at smumn.edu/photos in the album “International Lasallian Research Symposium 2015.” This event was jointly sponsored by the Christian Brothers Conference. ≠ Brother William and Mary Ann (Wera) Remick ’64, chair of the Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees, congratulate Donald Regan, who received the Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit Oct. 10 from his alma mater.

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SPRING 2016

Hendrickson Forum to feature former U.S. Ambassador and honor 3M leader Saint Mary’s 2016 Hendrickson Forum will feature former U.S. Ambassador to China Jon Huntsman, Jr. The April 20 event, “Global Leadership: Our Future With China,” is presented by Saint Mary’s Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership. “We’re delighted to have someone of Ambassador Huntsman’s caliber to share an insider’s perspective on global events and America’s relationship with China and its economic impact,” said Scott McMahon, executive director of the Hendrickson Institute. “This subject is of vital interest to organizations that have trade relationships to China, and also to our students who will live and compete in a global economy.” Huntsman has ground experience working in China as U.S. Ambassador from 2009 to 2011 and is currently chairman of the Atlantic Council. He began his career in public service as a staff assistant to President Ronald Reagan. He has since served presidents George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama in positions including ambassador to Singapore and deputy assistant secretary of commerce for Asia. As the youngest American diplomatic mission leader in a century, he launched global trade negotiations and assisted with the accession of China and Taiwan into the World Trade Organization. Twice elected as Utah’s governor, Huntsman brought about strong economic reforms, tripled the state’s rainy day fund, and helped bring unemployment rates to historic lows. In addition, Huntsman is co-founder and honorary co-chair of No Labels and serves on the boards of Ford Motor Co., Caterpillar Corp., Chevron Corp., Huntsman Corp., the U.S. Naval Academy

Foundation, and the University of Pennsylvania. This luncheon event will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., with checkin and networking beginning at 11 a.m. at the Saint Mary’s University Center on the Twin Cities Campus, 2540 Park Ave. in Minneapolis. The event is open to the public and general admission tickets are $50 per person, which includes lunch. Advance registration is required. More information and online registration is available at smumn.edu/ HendricksonForum. The program also includes a presentation of the Hendrickson Medal for Ethical Leadership, which honors an outstanding individual who, through his or her own work, has demonstrated the principles of ethical leadership. This year’s recipient will be Inge Thulin, CEO, president, and chairman of 3M for his significant contributions to the Twin Cites community and beyond. Thulin has proved to be an exceptional leader, fostering talent in employees and leaders at 3M. He is known for emphasizing teamwork and encouraging his employees to live healthy, balanced lives. Under his direction, 3M has invested significantly in sustainability and in research and development, as well as created a robust Code of Conduct and leadership development programs. Thulin sits on the board of the Chevron Corporation and is a member of the International Business Council of the World Economic Forum, The Business Council, Council on Foreign Relations, and Business Roundtable. He was also chair of the Greater Twin Cities United Way Campaign for 2015. ≠

Jon Huntsman, Jr.

Inge Thulin

New trustees announced Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota announces its new and returning members to the Board of Trustees: • Brother Pat Conway, FSC ’75, M’80, Ed.D., Saint Paul, vice president for advancement at Cretin-Derham Hall • Roger Haydock ’67, J.D., Spearfish, S.D., professor of Law at Mitchell Hamline School of Law • Mary Ann (Wera) Remick CST’64, Rochester, Minn., who is now serving as chair of the Board of Trustees. Additionally, Terry Russell ’76 and Brother David Poos, FSC, were elected to their second five-year terms. Russell is

executive vice president and Mid-America Region manager for Guy Carpenter & Company, LLC, Mendota Heights, Minn., and Brother David is a faculty member at Christian Brothers High School, Memphis, Tenn. Karen George ’76, J.D., Plymouth, Minn.; Mark Jacobs, Winona; and Hamid Quraishi, Winona, have completed their terms on the board. Quraishi is now serving on the Council of Regents. The university is indebted to these trustees for their dedication and service. ≠

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Meet your trustees: Jim Horan ’72

LASALLIAN FORMATION

Each year a number of faculty, staff, and students from Saint Mary’s participate in internal and external Lasallian formation opportunities around the globe, coming together in thought, prayer and reflection, community, and scholarship, exchanging ideas and unifying their work. The word “transformational” is frequently used when participants look back on their formation experiences, which range from two-day retreats to two-week seminars to programs that run for three consecutive summers.

Jim Horan ’72

Q: When did you agree to become a member of the Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees? A: It was around the time of the Centennial celebrations. Q: What committees are you serving on? A: I serve on the First Generation Initiative Board and the Advancement Committee. Q: What discussions have been the most interesting since you’ve joined the board? A: The Centennial celebration festivities kept me quite busy. It was interesting to gather so many people, from so many years, sharing so many memories, and all with a common bond. And since then it has been equally exciting to contemplate, discuss, and begin to plan for Saint Mary’s future. Q: What are your hopes and dreams for Saint Mary’s? A: My hope is to lay a viable foundation for Lasallian education at Saint Mary’s, one which continues to inspire and guide students to become responsible and energetic leaders in society. Q: What is your current employment situation? A: I am the founder and CEO of the Blue Plate Family of Companies in Chicago. Blue Plate is coming up on its 32nd anniversary. Q: What is your proudest accomplishment (personal and/or professional)? A: My proudest accomplishment is starting a business that now employs well over a thousand people while becoming recognized as a leader in our industry, both locally and nationally. ≠

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IALU: International Leadership Program for Faculties from Lasallian Universities Rome, Italy The IALU Leadership Program, a two-week seminar held annually in Rome, Italy, brings together leaders at Lasallian colleges and universities to deepen understanding of and commitment to Lasallian partnership by study of the Lasallian charism, the Catholic intellectual tradition, and the international Lasallian educational network. Saint Mary’s has a leading role in the International Lasallian University Leadership Program; Dr. Roxanne Eubank, director of the Institute for Lasallian Studies, is director of the program, and Dr. Mary Catherine Fox ’75, AFSC, professor of Interdisciplinary Studies, contributes as teaching staff. Leadership and Global Awareness Program Rome, Italy Two Saint Mary’s students, Rachael Storey ’17 and Chris Lackey ’18, attended the fourth Leadership and Global Awareness program in Rome, sponsored by the International Association of Lasallian Universities and held this past summer. A total of 37 students participated from 15 of the Lasallian colleges and universities in seven countries (Brazil, Colombia, France, Mexico, the Philippines, Spain, and the U.S.). Twelve students were from the colleges and universities that are part of the Lasallian Region of North America (RELAN), including La Salle University, Lewis University, Manhattan College, and Saint Mary’s. The goal of this program is to bring Lasallian students together from the around the globe to build a Lasallian community and network of student leaders. Regional Lasallian Collegiate Conference Memphis, Tenn. Two of our undergraduate students, Cecelia Kuka ’15 and Liam Bickerstaff ’18, attended the Regional Lasallian Collegiate Conference this past June at Christian Brothers College in Memphis, Tenn. Students from La Salle University, Saint Mary’s College, Lewis University, and Saint Mary’s gathered for a week to explore what it means to be Lasallian, and how they can share and promote the charism on their campuses. Participants learned about the Five Core Lasallian Principles, heard from Brothers and others in the Institute, and explored the culture and heritage of Memphis. SPRING 2016

Saint Mary’s representatives at the International Lasallian University Leadership Program in Rome included Dr. Roxanne Eubank, Dr. Donna Aronson, Rachel McGee, Suzanne Deranek ’83, and Dr. Mary Catherine Fox ’75.

The Buttimer Institute of Lasallian Studies Moraga, Calif. The Buttimer Institute of Lasallian Studies, a three-year residential course of study that meets for two weeks each summer, is an intensive Lasallian formation and education program that studies the life and work of St. John Baptist de La Salle and the origins of the Lasallian mission. Participation in the Buttimer Institute is open to faculty and staff. Brother John Johnston Institute of Contemporary Lasallian Practice The Brother John Johnston Institute of Contemporary Lasallian Practice is a formation program that focuses on Lasallian heritage in light of contemporary realities. The thematic areas covered were: Lasallian Story and Vision; Lasallian Service to the Poor and the Promotion of Social Justice; and Lasallian Spirituality, Vocation and Association. A capstone project is expected of all participants. The program is conducted on a two-year cycle (March 2014-March 2016), and consists of five in-person gatherings and four online sessions. It is designed for faculty and staff. Lasallian Social Justice Institute The Lasallian Social Justice Institute (LSJI), an annual one-week workshop held in different locations around the country, attempts to ground participants experientially, practically, and spiritually in the Catholic social teachings on social justice and in the preferential option for the poor that is a hallmark of Lasallian identity. LSJI is open to faculty and staff. Huether Lasallian Conference Chicago, Ill. The Huether Lasallian Conference is an annual gathering of Lasallian educators in the Region. The theme changes from year to year with a focus on innovative educational issues. The Huether Conference is open to all faculty and staff. Lasallian Summer Retreat This three-day retreat with Lasallian scholar Brother Gerard Rummery, FSC, in 2015 explored the themes of Lasallian history and the life of De La Salle, with an emphasis on the spiritual life and Lasallian spirituality. The summer retreat is offered to faculty and staff.

Saint Mary’s students Chris Lackey ’18 and Rachael Storey ’17 meet with Superior General Brother Robert Schieler, FSC, at the Generalate of the De La Salle Christian Brothers in Rome.

Collegium: A Colloquy on Faith and Intellectual Life Collegium seminars bring together scholars interested in exploring aspects of the Catholic intellectual tradition, and their role in the mission of Catholic higher education. This opportunity rotates on a yearly basis between The College of Holy Cross, Saint John’s University in Minnesota, and the University of Portland. The Collegium seminars are designed for faculty and university leaders. Lasallian Mission Days The Lasallian Mission Days program is an opportunity for faculty and staff to learn more about many aspects of our Lasallian mission—from the life and times of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, the development of the international Lasallian educational mission, service to the poor, Lasallian spirituality, the Christian Brothers worldwide and at Saint Mary’s, and the history of Saint Mary’s University. The group meets for four hours each day, for four days, and is for new members of the university community as well as for those who would like to know more about our Lasallian mission today. The Lasallian Mission Days program is for faculty and staff. International Symposium on Lasallian Research Twin Cities Campus This annual symposium gathers creative minds to dialogue about the key characteristics or key areas that comprise the field of Lasallian research today, look beyond a study solely of the origins, tradition, and heritage in Lasallian research, break open the possibilities for Lasallian research in the 21st century, and propose avenues or topics for future needed Lasallian research. The goal is also to develop a community of scholars committed to supporting, conducting, and publishing Lasallian research. ≠

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ALUMNI

NEWS

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SPRING 2016

Reunion Weekend Draws 350 Last June’s Reunion Weekend attendees spent the weekend singing, dancing, canoeing, golfing, dining, touring, bouncing, galloping, picnicking—and connecting. More than 350 alumni, family, and friends returned to the Winona Campus. Terrace Heights was filled with laughter as alumni returned to the beautiful spot where their memories together began. Plenty of outdoor activities were planned as alums toured the campus trails, ran (walked or strolled) the Gilmore Gallop race, enjoyed trolley rides around town, and canoed with Brother John Grover, FSC ’65 on the backwaters of the Mississippi. Alumni also took to the local greens, where they tested their golfing skills, while others learned a new skill, making mosaics. Everyone knows the real reason to return to campus is for the friendships. A number of anniversary class reunions were held throughout campus, the downtown, and beyond. A lively Golden Reunion class came together on campus Friday evening, and Brother William presented them with special diplomas proclaiming mastery of the art and science of life experience. Saint Mary’s Park was filled with shade-seekers as alumni from all generations, as well as their families, enjoyed the Saturday afternoon luau, complete with tropical foods and leis.

Saturday evening, special honors were given to: Distinguished Alumnus Award–William G. Jungbauer ’75, J.D.; Outstanding Young Alumna Award–Jennifer (Folgers) Baertsch ’05; and Alumni Appreciation Award–William Herzog ’70. Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a special dinner with wine and roses. The weekend was rounded out with music, from the rousing piano bar to a campus DJ. Alumni proved that they’ve haven’t lost any of their dance moves, as they rocked the Cardinal Club during the evening. No matter the location, the time of day, or the activity, alumni found fun and creative ways to reconnect with each other and with their alma mater all weekend long. Many alumni had not previously returned to campus, and were proud to see and hear about the growth of the university. Younger alumni enjoyed hearing stories from “the good old days.” Start planning to attend the next Reunion Weekend. Come and see how your friends have changed, but your friendships haven’t. This year’s dates are June 24-26, 2016. ≠

2016 ALUMNI

AWARDS

RECIPIENTS Distinguished Alumnus Award Merle Wilberding ’66

Alumni Appreciation Award Renée Garpéstad ’81, D’03

Lasallian Service Award Barb McQuillan ’76

Young Alumna Award Clair (Zauhar) Pennycuff ’06, M’07

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Grant gifts of time, talent, treasure in 2016

Henry Jakobsze ’83 President

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Alumni Association

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The past year was wonderful for the Saint Mary’s family, and we have much gratitude to extend to our alumni for all their support. Although we have many blessings, one of the many highlights of 2015 would include the groundbreaking for the new Science and Learning Center. This new facility will be the focal point of our Winona Campus. Thanks to the partnership and support of our alumni and benefactors, tomorrow’s science leaders will soon have a new home in which to learn and grow. The Saint Mary’s University Alumni Association is committed to supporting the university’s Strategic Plan. One key objective is to perpetuate the Lasallian Catholic heritage and identity. Simply stated, the university’s mission is to nurture and empower learners to ethical lives of service and leadership. I’ve been honored to serve on the alumni board for the past six years. I’ve had the privilege of speaking and interacting with students and alumni from all generations. A common theme is a feeling of gratitude to all those who came before us. Among the students, there is a genuine sense of thanksgiving to the benefactors who have made possible the endowment and scholarships that provide students the opportunity to attend our university. As a result, students show their gratitude by serving the community in Winona and back in their hometowns. Service and volunteerism are the norm among the students of Saint Mary’s. In October, the Saint Mary’s Alumni Association sponsored our annual Lasallian Day of Service throughout the communities of Winona, the Twin Cities, Chicago, Milwaukee, and New York City. More than 130 alumni and students volunteered their Saturday by working with various nonprofit organizations, including innercity schools, homeless shelters, and soup kitchens. Our goal is to grow this effort each year by reengaging more alumni, family, and friends for the common objectives of service and leadership. A new initiative of the Alumni Board is to encourage alums to engage with students on campus by participating in classes and mentoring students. Have you ever thought to yourself, “I wish I knew then what I know now”? Well, share those thoughts with our students. Students and faculty are hungry for the wisdom of alumni who are willing to share their experiences of the “real world.” In September and March, board members speak to classes in their respective fields and share their knowledge of what it takes to succeed. The response from students is overwhelmingly positive. Feel free to contact the Alumni Relations Office to coordinate an on-campus visit. Back in the early 1980s, Winona seemed like a thousand miles away from corporate America. On-campus interviews and internships were scarce. Today, Winona is home to dozens of global corporations. Real-world experience during a student’s college years is more important than ever in this current competitive environment.

ALUMNI NEWS

Many of our alumni are in positions of leadership within many industries and communities. Through our Cardinals Helping Cardinals initiative, internships and career opportunities are being made available to students and fellow alums. As John McDonough ’75, president and CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks, mentioned when he brought the Stanley Cup to the Winona Campus in September, “Saint Mary’s résumés seem to get placed on top of the pile.” We thank the Blackhawks, as they’ve hired many of our fellow Cardinals for internships and permanent positions within their organization. We ask the members of our Saint Mary’s family to seek out candidates who share our special affinity. Please contact Michael Hagarty of the Career Services and Internships Office for more details or submit an internship opportunity via our Cardinals Helping Cardinals submission form at mysmumn.org/chc. The Saint Mary’s Alumni Association looks forward to engaging with more Cardinals at the many upcoming planned events. We wish you much success and prosperity, and of course ask for your continued support of time, talent, and treasure. ≠

CALENDAR April 20 22-23 23 May 11 21 June 24 24-26 July 14

Hendrickson Forum, Minneapolis Alumni Board meeting, Winona Benefactor Dinner, Winona First Generation Initiative S.O.A.R. Breakfast, Minneapolis Brother Charles Severin Celebration of Excellence, Chicago Alumni Board meeting, Winona Reunion Weekend, Winona Young Alumni Event and Saint Paul Saints game, Saint Paul

August 12 Bogey Bash, Oakbrook, Ill. September 9-11 Young Alumni Weekend/ Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend, Winona For the most current list of alumni events, go to mysmumn.org.

SPRING 2016

Young Alumni Weekend The Winona Campus was a flurry of activity with Young Alumni Weekend, Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend, and a return visit by John McDonough ’75, president and CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks (with the Stanley Cup) all occurring in one weekend. More than 150 young alumni returned to their alma mater Sept. 11-13 with stories from graduate school, details about new family members, and exciting new jobs and careers. Participants enjoyed a full weekend of events, including a young alumni gathering at Mulligan’s,

Ryan Wockenfus ’11 and Alex Schmidt ’13 reunited during the Young Alumni Weekend.

an afternoon grill-out on campus, and an alumni party at Betty Jo’s Saturday evening. The weekend also coincided with Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend, giving Saint Mary’s alumni opportunities to cheer on Cardinal athletics, and to once again play on their home court, field, or rink. What better way to re-live your campus experience (without the homework)? Make plans to attend Young Alumni Weekend next year on Sept. 9-11. ≠

Young alumni and students having fun are, from left:, Emily Babkin ’15, Kenzie Corrow ’14, Cate Coghlan ’15, Cassie Ricker ’16, Janie Maki ’15, Sam Casillas ’14; front, Theresa LaValla ’15, Lauren Salonek ’15, and Abbie Zuzek ’15.

Patti (Schommer) Uhal ’14 brought her baby, Angela.

The future looks bright for these alumnae, Kristen Gustafson ’14 (left), Sami Amatuzio ’15 (center), and Anna Anderson ’14 (right).

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THEATRE ALUMNI RECEPTION Theatre alumni came together for an alumni panel, a pre-play reception, the production of “Uncle Vanya,” and a post-production reception at Ground Round in Winona on March 28, 2015. Nell Gelhaus ’02, Dr. Michael Flanagan ’63 (retired theatre faculty), and Kelsey Gelhaus connected at the pre-production reception.

PHILANTHROPY AND DEVELOPMENT ALUMNI RECEPTION Alumni from the M.A. in Philanthropy and Development program, including Jeremy Wells M’06, Tina Palmer M’05, and Jamilia Shipman M’08 convened in Baltimore, Md., during the Association of Fundraising Professionals Conference on March 29, 2015.

ALUMNI BOGEY BASH The first Bogey Bash was held at Oak Brook Hills Hilton Resort in Oak Brook, Ill., on Aug. 14, 2015. The golf outing and evening party also included opportunities to enjoy the resort pool and massages. More than 250 alumni and friends participated. Mary Beth O’Loughlin Husfield ’80, Dr. John O’Connell ’80, Bob Husfield ’78, and Jack White ’79 enjoyed the Bogey Bash evening event.

ALUMNI LEGACY DINNER During Family Weekend on Oct. 3, 2015, the Saint Mary’s Alumni Association hosted a dinner for all alumni of Saint Mary’s and the College of Saint Teresa who have current students at Saint Mary’s. One legacy family, including Anna Blaser, Michael Blaser ’85, Emily Blaser ’16 and Sara Sauber Blaser ’84 posed during the event.

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ALUMNI NEWS

M.B.A. ALUMNI CHAPTER STUDENT ENGAGEMENT EVENT On Sept. 29, 2015, members of the M.B.A. Alumni Chapter hosted a social event for current students of the M.B.A. program. The event was organized to highlight and educate students about the alumni chapter. Bryan Volk M’13 and Linda Pellowski M’10 addressed the M.B.A. Chapter members and students.

LASALLIAN DAY OF SERVICE The annual Lasallian Day of Service on Oct. 24, 2015, brought together groups of alumni from throughout the U.S. to work together in service to their communities. The alumni association worked with alumni at sites in Chicago, the Twin Cities, Milwaukee, Winona, and New York City. Russ Barcelona ’82, Jenny (Lauer) Barcelona ’83, Bob Schmidt ’69, Mary Schmidt, Tom Callen ’70, Susan Leachy, Pat Kobler ’77, Joan Kiel Kubacki CST’70, and Kevin Kubacki ’71 served at Hunger Task Force in Milwaukee.

SPRING 2016

LASALLIAN DAY OF SERVICE George Thomas ’79, Conner Ellinghuysen ’15, Lexi Hamilton ’15, Christine Volk ’15, John Corcoran ’99, Jenny Cochran Biederman ’05 M’08, and prospective students from Totino Grace High School served at Habitat for Humanity in Winona.

ROCHESTER HALLOWEEN FUN DAY The alumni association hosted a new event on Oct. 31, 2015, for Rochesterarea alumni at Cascade Meadow. This facility is a new environmental center that was gifted to Saint Mary’s last year. The event had free food, arts and crafts for kids, live reptiles from the Biology Department, fun chemistry experiments, tours of the facility, and a costume contest. Big Red greeted an excited Halloween costume participant.

EVENTS ARIZONA ALUMNI AND FRIENDS GATHERING On Nov. 13, 2015, Paul Meyer ’64, a university trustee and his wife, Carole Meyer, hosted a Saint Mary’s alumni event at the Phoenix Country Club. Catherine McDonald ’11 connected with Brother William at the event.

CHICAGO ALUMNI CHRISTMAS GATHERING On Dec. 12, 2015, the alumni association hosted a special Christmas gathering for Chicago-area alumni and friends at the Oak Brook Drake Hotel. Matt Marron ’83 and Henry Jakobsze ’83, president of Saint Mary’s Alumni Board, reconnected for this holiday event.

TWIN CITIES ALUMNI CHRISTMAS GATHERING The annual Twin Cities Christmas Gathering occurred on Dec. 4, 2015, at the Saint Mary’s University Center on the Twin Cities Campus. Attendees, including Michael and Sara (Sloneker) Seal ’06, M’07, enjoyed great food, wonderful conversation and remarks from Brother William.

WINONA ALUMNI HOLIDAY GATHERING Alumni of the Winona area gathered on Jan. 8, 2016, to celebrate the new year. The alumni association hosted its annual Winona Holiday event in the main lobby and lounge of the Hillside residence hall. Laura Eddy, Tony Piscitiello ’69, M’82, AFSC, and Sandra Linke Burke ’81 enjoyed the evening.

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Current, former athletes honored The Cardinal ‘M’ Club and the Alumni Association capped a memorable ‘M’ Club Weekend Sept. 11-13 by inducting three members into the Saint Mary’s Sports Hall of Fame, while also honoring Saint Mary’s 2014-15 postseason awardwinners, and recognizing the 2014-15 Outstanding Male and Female Athletes, and Outstanding Scholar-Athletes. The Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony honored former student-athletes Missy (Westergren) Kuntz ’02 and Missie Meemken ’03 of the Cardinal women’s hockey team, and Corby Manes ’95 of the men’s hockey team.

Fittingly, these three hockey greats were honored during the same weekend as a return visit by Chicago Blackhawks President and CEO John McDonough ’75, who returned to his alma mater with the Stanley Cup. “I think it’s so meaningful for our current athletes to hear from our alumni athletes during the induction ceremony,” said Nikki Fennern, athletic director. “Our alumni look back at their time at Saint Mary’s as being pivotal moments in their lives. Not only do they have great memories of their friends, teammates, and coaches, but they also reflect on how much they grew as individuals and athletes.” ≠

Student-athlete award winners Two is a magic number for the 2014-15 outstanding male and female athletes. Ben Buerkle ’17 (Roseville, Minn.) took the baseball world by storm as a freshman in 2013-14—and was named Saint Mary’s Outstanding Male Athlete for his efforts. The Cardinal outfielder was even better as a sophomore—and he was once again rewarded for those efforts with a second straight Saint Mary’s Outstanding Male Athlete honor. A two-sport standout, Macki Fadness ’16 (Eau Claire, Wis.) made her presence felt both on the volleyball court and the hockey rink, helping both Cardinal squads reach the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference playoffs—and earn Saint Mary’s Outstanding Female Athlete award in the process. Sticking with the No. 2 theme, Aaron Haley ’15 (Plainview, Minn.) and Katie Stolz ’15 (Forest Lake, Minn.), meanwhile, were named Saint Mary’s Outstanding Male and Female Scholar Athletes—for the second year in a row. ≠ Read more about these athletes’ accomplishments at: smumn.edu/outstandingathletes.

The 2014-15 student-athlete award winners.

Ben Buerkle ’17

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‘ M’ CLUB

Macki Fadness ’16

Aaron Haley ’15

Cardinal senior second baseman Drew Denning ’15 was named to the 2015 ABCA/ Rawlings Gold Glove Team, after posting 66 putouts and 75 assists—while committing just one error in 142 overall chances. Denning was one of just nine players in all of NCAA Division III to earn the illustrious ABCA/ Rawlings Gold Glove Award.

Katie Stolz ’15

SPRING 2016

at Cardinal ‘M’ Club weekend 2015 Hall of Fame inductees MISSY (WESTERGREN) KUNTZ ’02 A member of the first Saint Mary’s women’s varsity hockey program, Kuntz enjoyed a stellar four-year collegiate career, earning First-Team All-Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference honors all four seasons, while also being named to the AHCA/JOFA All-American Second-Team following her junior season. A member of the Cardinals’ MIAC regular-season titles in 1998-99 and 199900—as well as the 2001-02 MIAC playoff championship team—Kuntz was also a member of the Cardinals’ two national tournament teams her junior and senior seasons. Kuntz sits atop the career record books in points (154), assists (74), power-play goals (16), short-handed goals (6), and plus-minus (+138), while her 80 career goals rank No. 2. MISSIE MEEMKEN ’03 Meemken was also a mainstay on the early Cardinal women’s hockey teams, helping guide the Cardinals to a regular-season conference championship her freshman season, an MIAC playoff championship a year later, and back-to-back AHCA national tournament appearances as a sophomore and junior. A two-time AHCA/JOFA

All-American—a Second-Team selection following the 2000-01 season and a First-Team pick the following year—Meemken graduated from Saint Mary’s as the team’s career leader in saves (2,360), goals-against-average (1.87), wins (54), ties (11) and shutouts (18), while her .932 career save percentage ranked No. 2. A two-time First-Team All-Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference pick, Meemken owns the single-season school record for wins (16, 2001-02), ties (6, 2002-03), and saves (684, 2002-03). CORBY MANES ’95 Manes proved to be among the most prolific offensive threats in Saint Mary’s men’s hockey history, earning AllMinnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference honors in each of his last three seasons with the Cardinals. Manes saved his best for last, recording his fourth straight season of 30 or more points—finishing with 48 (16 goals, 32 assists)—in leading the Cardinals to an MIAC playoff championship and NCAA tournament berth, while also earning AHCA/JOFA Second-Team All-American honors. Manes’ 106 career assists rank No. 2 all time, while his 172 points and 66 goals put him sixth and ninth all-time. ≠

Cardinal ‘M’ Club Hall of Fame inductees included, from left: Missy (Westergren) Kuntz ’02, Corby Manes ’95, and Missie Meemken ’03.

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VOLLEYBALL

Final Records: 8-3 MIAC (T-3rd) | 20-10 Overall This and That: The Cardinals boasted three players—seniors Lex Krogstad (Chicago) and Macki Fadness (Eau Claire, Wis.), and junior Molly Urban (Roseville, Minn.)—on the All-MIAC First-Team. Saint Mary’s made its third straight appearance in the MIAC Playoffs this season, falling to regular-season champion Gustavus 3-0 in the semifinals. It was the third consecutive semifinal showing for the Cardinals. … Saint Mary’s has now played in 10 of the 15 conference tournaments since the MIAC moved to the single-elimination format. … The Cardinals won 20 or more matches for the eighth time under coach Mike Lester. … Fadness closed out the season with a team- and career-best 334 kills. … Sophomore Brittney Hanson (Janesville, Iowa) and senior Tayler MacVey (Dodge Center, Minn.) shared the majority of the setting duties this season, with Hanson owning a team-best 518 assists, while MacVey was close behind with 484. … Krogstad posted a team-best 509 digs this season—marking the fourth consecutive season of 500 or more digs—and closed out her collegiate career second all-time with 2,112 career digs. Krogstad is just the second player ever to reach the 2,000-dig plateau.

SPORTS Lex Krogstad ’16

WOMEN’S SOCCER Records: 3-8-0 MIAC (10th) | 6-12-0 Overall)

This and that: Junior Emma Schaefer (Roseville, Minn.) was named First-Team All-MIAC, while senior Caroline Blackwood (Norwalk, Ohio) earned her third honorable-mention honor. … The Cardinals’ six wins were the most since Saint Mary’s went 7-9-0 during the 2010 campaign. … Schaefer finished as the team leader in goals with six and in points with 13. … Schaefer boasted a pair of two-goal games this season. … Blackwood recorded a team- and career-high six assists. … Freshman Maddy Wallraff (Blaine, Minn.) finished second to Schaefer in both goals (4) and points (8). … Saint Mary’s had five players score their first collegiate goals this season—Wallraff, and sophomore Molly Homeyer (Arlington, Texas), freshman Becca Dup (Albert Lea, Minn.), junior Anna Taylor (St. Paul, Minn.), and freshman Janis Martinez (Las Vegas, Nev.). … Junior GK Aubrie Cornell (Columbia, Mo.) started all 18 games in goal for the Cardinals, compiling a conference-leading 118 saves and owning a 1.84 goals-against-average. Emma Schafer ’17

MEN’S SOCCER Records: 0-7-3 MIAC | 6-9-3 Overall

This and That: Saint Mary’s freshmen Chris Beiersdorf (Arlington Heights, Ill.) and Chris Trussel (Wenatchee, Wash.) were both named honorable-mention All-MIAC. … The Cardinals closed out the season going 2-1-1 in their final four games. … Five of the Cardinals’ six wins were by shutout. … Trussel, junior Jim Dreshar (Hugo, Minn.), and sophomore Jared Wolt (Farmington, Minn.) shared the team lead in goals with four each. … Trussel also led the team in points with 11, two more than Dreshar. … Senior Andrew Jaworski (Racine, Wis.) closed out his senior season with a team-best four assists. … Senior Cody Balogh (Batavia, Ill.) played in all 18 games for the Cardinals for the fourth straight season, equaling the school record for games played. … Senior GK Evan Claffy (Joliet, Ill.) recorded a seven-save shutout in his final collegiate game vs. Finlandia. … Claffy, who finished with four shutouts this season and five for his collegiate career, led the team with 54 saves, while owning a 1.29 goals-against-average. … The Cardinals played four overtime games this season—posting a 2-0-2 record.

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SPORTS NEWS

Chris Trussel ’19

FALL 2014

CROSS COUNTRY MIAC Finish: M-7th | W-12th NCAA Regional Finish: M-16th | W-27th

This and That: Junior Jovan Newsum (Glendale Heights, Ill.) collected his second straight honorable-mention All-MIAC honor, clocking a team-best time of 26:45 to place 16th overall at the MIAC Championships on Oct. 31. … Newsum posted the team’s best 8K time of the season at the UW-La Crosse Jim Drews Invitational on Oct. 14, stopping the clock in 25:41. … He also posted the team’s top time in each of the Cardinals’ last five meets, while sophomore Austin O’Hare (Rushford, Minn.)—who clocked a team-best 23:42 four-mile time at the season-opening Saint Mary’s Alumni Open—has been second each time. … The Cardinal men’s team’s seventh-place finish at the conference championships was the highest in coach Ward Berndt’s 11 years at the helm. … Erika Thiel ’19 (Burr Ridge, Ill.) and sister Allie Thiel ’16 highlighted the Cardinal women’s 12th-place showing at the MIAC Championships on Oct. 31. Erika, the younger Thiel—appearing in her first collegiate conference championship—posted a team-best 6K time of 25:16 to finish 59th, while Allie, the elder Theil—making her final MIAC Championships appearance—was close behind, stopping the clock in 25:49 to place 73rd.

NEWS

Jovan Newsum ’17

MEN’S GOLF

2015 MIAC Finish: 10th (995 54-hole total)

Senior Blake Westerberg (Red Wing, Minn.) closed out his collegiate career with three straight seven-overpar 79s at the season-ending MIAC Championships. … Westerberg—who placed third overall among the 110 competitors at the Saint John’s Invitational on Sept. 1920—took home medalist honors at the Midwest Region Classic a week later, carding rounds of 68-75 for a oneunder-par 143 total. … Westerberg’s opening-round 68 at the Midwest Region Classic was a school record, one shot better than freshman Kyle Brodt’s (Roseville, Minn.) 69 shot earlier this season. … Westerberg recorded 31 rounds of 79 or better during his four-year collegiate career and finished with a 78.74 career scoring average, ranking him third all-time. … The Cardinals recorded a school-record 297 team total during the second day of the Augsburg Invitational on Sept. 6.

Blake Westerberg ’16 Kaitlin Kling ’18

WOMEN’S GOLF

2015 MIAC Finish: 10th (1090 54-hole score) With her 88-85-88 showing at the season-ending MIAC Championships, sophomore Kaitlin Kling (LeRoy, Minn.) shot 88 or better in 10 of her 11 competitive rounds this season—including a career-best 83 at the Wartburg Invitational on Sept. 9—and finished as the Cardinals’ scoring leader with an 86.73 average. … Kling’s 83 was two shots better than her previous career-low round of 85—shot during both rounds of the Saint Benedict Invitational on Sept. 5-6, as well as during the 2014 D3 Classic. … Madison Gately ’17 (Glenview, Ill.)—who shot back-to-back career-low 85s in the first two rounds of the MIAC Championships— was second to Kling in scoring average at 89.50. … Senior Haley Jung (Monticello, Minn.) recorded career-best rounds of 83 and 81 to lead the Cardinals to a second-place showing at the Luther Invitational on Sept. 25-26. … Jung’s second-round 81 was the Cardinals’ lowest round of the season. … The Cardinals’ 701 (353-348) at the Luther Invitational was a two-round school record, eclipsing the old mark by seven strokes. SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

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HELP US HONOR DISTINGUISHED SAINT MARY’S ALUMNI

Nominate deserving alums for Reunion Weekend 2017 awards

Do you know a Saint Mary’s alum who has made outstanding achievements in his/her career? Or, someone who has given significant time and commitment to the community or Saint Mary’s University? Does someone stand out in your memory as deserving of an alumni award? Can you remember an athlete or coach whose accomplishments brought honor to him/herself and Saint Mary’s University? Each year, the Alumni Association of Saint Mary’s University bestows awards upon deserving alumni. We are now accepting nominees for Reunion Weekend 2017 for Distinguished Alumnus/a, Alumni Appreciation, Sports Hall of Fame, and Religious Service Awards. All nominations must come from alumni, or employees of Saint Mary’s University. Award nominations must be received by the Office of Alumni Relations no later than Sept. 1, 2016. DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS/A AWARD CRITERIA • This award honors an alumnus/a for outstanding achievements in his/her chosen profession. • This person’s daily life reflects the Christian ideals promulgated by the university. • This person has distinguished him/herself in his/her chosen field or in another area of endeavor. ALUMNI APPRECIATION AWARD CRITERIA • This award honors an alumnus/a of the university who, by his/her consistent and continuous volunteer efforts, has given his/her personal time and energies to further the goals and objectives of Saint Mary’s University. • He/she must show exceptional personal commitment involving time and effort in any or all areas involving university functions supported by the Alumni Association. These areas include, but are not limited to, Career Services, Admissions Support, Chapter Development, Alumni Board, Chapter Involvement, and Regional Events and Programs. • Current employees of the university are ineligible for the award.

• Continuous personal contributions of time and effort are the primary criteria. LASALLIAN SERVICE AWARD CRITERIA • This award honors an alumnus/a for outstanding contributions to the Lasallian spirit of faith and zeal and exemplifies the highest of Lasallian values. • This award will be given for personal achievements in the Lasallian charism. OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNUS/A AWARD CRITERIA • This award will honor a young alumnus/a for outstanding accomplishments within the first 10 years from graduation, whose professional accomplishments, service to alma mater, and/ or selfless and caring work to benefit society are distinctive. SPORTS HALL OF FAME CRITERIA • This award honors individuals or teams who have made outstanding contributions with the Saint Mary’s intercollegiate athletic department as athletes, coaches, or administrators. • An athlete must have attended Saint Mary’s for a minimum of four semesters. An athlete’s class must have graduated at least five years prior to selection. • A coach or administrator must have served the university a minimum of five years and five years must have elapsed since the nominee last served in that capacity. If currently serving at the time of the nomination, the nominee must have had 20 years of continuous service. • Five years must have elapsed since any team nominated competed at Saint Mary’s. • A Hall of Fame nominee will have shown athletic and academic skills, teamwork, leadership, character or other attributes of an ideal Saint Mary’s studentathlete.

2017 Alumni Award Nomination Form n Preliminary Information

I wish to nominate an individual for: (Please check type of award; photocopy to nominate in more than one category.) q Distinguished Alumnus/a q Sports Hall of Fame q Alumni Appreciation q Lasallian Service q Outstanding Young Alumnus/a Name of nominee

Class Year

Telephone (daytime)

Telephone (home)

Why do you think this individual should receive a Saint Mary’s University Alumni Award?

Name of nominator

Telephone (daytime)

Does this person know he/she is being nominated?

Telephone (home)

Email

To nominate a candidate for an award, complete this form and return by Sept. 1, 2016. Saint Mary’s Alumni Relations staff will follow-up with you as necessary. Send to: Alumni Relations, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights #21, Winona, MN 55987-1399. FAX 507-457-6697

Larry Gorrell remembered Larry Gorrell ’74 treasured the arts. More importantly, he had an art for making people feel treasured. Gorrell, a prominent figure in the Southeastern Minnesota arts scene and a long-time faculty member and arts administrator at Saint Mary’s University, died suddenly on Nov. 11, 2015. He was 67. Upon hearing the news of his death, countless friends and colleagues took to social media to express their sympathy. Gorrell was frequently described as a “shining light”—undoubtedly because of his infectious laugh, quick wit, and positive outlook. A 1974 Saint Mary’s alumnus, and formerly a De La Salle Christian Brother, Gorrell had a long history with Saint Mary’s, beginning in 1990. He served the university in a number of leadership roles including: faculty member, dean of the School of the Arts, director of the M.A. in Human Development program, coordinator of the M.A. in Lasallian Studies, and Performance Center general manager. One of his proudest accomplishments was founding the M.A. in Arts Administration program in 1991. Most recently, he served as assistant director of Saint Mary’s M.A. in Human Development program until May of 2015 and was continuing his passion for teaching. Through social media, Saint Mary’s alumni have expressed that their lives wouldn’t be the same without him: he inspired their careers, and served as an unforgettable mentor. Joseph W. Reed ’02, said Gorrell was like a father to him. Reed, who currently works as an adjunct instructor at Winona State University’s English Language Center, first met Gorrell in 1998, back when Reed was writing articles for the student newspaper. Gorrell sought out the English student after admiring his writing. The two struck up a fast friendship. “The thing about Larry was his generosity of spirit,” Reed said. “His life was about trying to find the happy side of something. The last thing he said in life was a joke.” Reed added that equally paired with Gorrell’s joyous spirit was a thoughtful side. “He was very principled. To be so loving and so principled is a pretty interesting combination. He didn’t make decisions hastily,” Reed said. “He was a really good listener. He was always willing to let other people shine.” These are all traits, Reed said, he tries to emulate in his own career. “I try to do what he did—think about my students as people.” A leader in the arts world, Gorrell also directed many plays both on campus and with Home and Community Options; worked with the Minnesota State Arts Board; and served as the executive director of the Minnesota Marine Art Museum. The experience Gorrell gained directing theatre operations for City Center Theatre in New York City for seven years—not to mention immersing himself in the arts of the Big Apple—fueled his later work at Saint Mary’s and in the community. Theatre, it can be said, was in the consummate entertainer’s blood. Judy Myers, theatre and dance professor, worked with Gorrell for 17 years— which means she heard a lot of Gorrell’s jokes, some enough times to recite by heart. Gorrell was perhaps happiest hosting get-togethers and parties at his home, particularly on his deck, and any reason was a good reason to celebrate. His Thanksgiving dinners, Easter egg-dyeing parties, and a fancy tea party stick out most in Myers’ mind. In regard to working with him as dean of the School of the Arts, Myers said, “He encouraged us to do our best.” He was very open to us and to the students as artists. His door was always open.” Gorrell once summed up his life’s motto in a local newspaper article, undoubtedly with a twinkle in his eye, saying: “Live life to the fullest, but along the way treat everyone with respect.” ≠

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Class Notes 1950s Thomas Casey ’53, Scottsdale, Ariz., retired 20 years ago from Motorola in Scottsdale. He became a student all over again at Arizona State University. After two years of study, he earned certification to teach exercise science at Scottsdale Community College. Since then he has worked in the fitness center at SCC. He says it is great fun to work with college students, but he also has the opportunity to work with and write exercise programs for the many retired people from Minnesota and Wisconsin who come to enjoy Arizona winters. He is often reminded of his Max Molock and Brother Charles days.

1960s Art Clark ’61, Raleigh, N.C., taught a short course for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at N.C. State University on “The Fixer” by Bernard Malamud. Brother Stephen William Markham ’66, M’72 is in need of a kidney. This past May his kidneys failed and he is now on dialysis for four hours three times a week. Brother Stephen served Saint Mary’s in a number of positions, including vice president for student development at Saint Mary’s from 1986 to 1991 and as a hall director. He served as the Christian Brothers’ vice provincial from 1976 to 1983 and lived on campus during that period as well, so he is known by many alumni. If you’re open to being tested, call Mayo Clinic at 866-227-1569 and tell them you are calling in regard to William Markham’s need for a transplant. If needed, his Mayo Clinic number is 3-667-956. You will be interviewed and told how to proceed. If you have

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questions, Brother Stephen can be reached at 563-5806930. Ed Zabrocki ’63, Tinley Park, Ill., was recently honored by the International Economic Development Council (4,500 members) with its International Leadership Award for Public Service at its recent convention in Anchorage, Alaska. On June 1, 2015, Ed retired after 34 years of serving as mayor of Tinley Park. Peter Lotzer ’65, Rockford, Ill., and his wife Carol celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary on July 20, 2015. He is a registered representative with Voya Financial Advisors. Mike ’66 and Claudia (Drvota) CST’68 Dooley are enjoying time with their new granddaughter Carmen Eliza Dooley, who joined their family on Dec. 28, 2015.

1970s Rocky Ammerman ’71, Thief River Falls, Minn., retired from Northland Community and Technical College where he was the registrar. Brother Roger Betzold, FSC ’71, Winona, began a new career as the principal at St. Mary Grade School in Caledonia, Minn. Brother Patrick Conway, FSC ’75, St. Paul, Minn., was named vice president for advancement at CretinDerham Hall High School. Judge James McWhinnie ’75, Kailua, Hawaii, was appointed to the District Court of First Circuit (Oahu). He will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Faye M. Koyanagi. James Ryan ’75, Golden Valley, Minn., retired Feb. 28, 2015, after 40 years of government service. He

continues as the legislative and political coordinator for Local 3129 of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), and vice president of Chapter 150 of the National Association of Retired and Active Federal Employees (NARFE). He continues to play guitar and sang vocals with Tim Little as “The Harmony Valley Boys.” Mark Schollmeier ’75 celebrated 40 years of marriage to wife Sheila. He retired after 37 years of service with the Veterans Administration. Upon retirement they moved back to Winona where they are enjoying all that retired life brings.

https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=eMUlqRnu_6A.

1980s Judge Michael Mayer ’81, Eagan, Minn., received the A.L. Carlisle Child Advocacy Award from the Coalition of Juvenile Justice at its annual conference in Washington, D.C. This is a national award for child advocacy. He is currently serving as a Dakota County Judge. Allen Klein M’83, San Francisco, Calif., published his latest book, You Can’t Ruin My Day, by Dreamscape Audio Books: www.dreamscapeab.com/ audiobook/4268235/detail.

Florian Palac ’77, Libertyville, Ill., retired in 2009 with more than 30 years in the corporate world of accounting at Allstate Insurance. Since then, he received his certificate in wellness coaching from the College of Lake County in 2010. In 2011, he received a master’s degree from California University of Pennsylvania along with National Academy of Sports Medicine personal training certification. In 2012 he received certified wellness practitioner designation from the National Wellness Institute in Stevens Point, Wis. He is an adjunct faculty member at the College of Lake County in the Health and Wellness Promotion program. He also co-authored the book Structured Field Observations to assist students in exploring and discovering their practicum opportunities.

Patrice Henning ’84, Had an opportunity to attend a graduation ceremony at Christ the Teacher Institute for Education in Nairobi, Kenya. She is thrilled to invite all alumni to join the inaugural Kenyan mission trip to CTIE in August 2016. For more information, go to mysmumn.org/kenya16.

Dan Ebener M’79, Davenport, Iowa, wrote a book on strategic planning published by Paulist Press. You can watch his video on YouTube based on this book on strategic planning:

Dr. Michael Maly ’90, Brookfield, Ill., co-wrote a book titled Vanishing Eden. He is an associate professor of sociology and director of the policy research

Greg Zimprich ’86, Chaska, Minn., was named director of global communications for Honeywell in November 2014. He was elected to the Public Relations Society of America College of Fellows, an honorary organization comprised of 300 senior practitioners who have left a significant footprint on the public relations profession.

1990s Paul Lindeman M’90, Nisswa, Minn., joined Edina Realty Company in the Brainerd/ Baxter office.

SPRING 2016

News about your classmates and colleagues collaboration at Roosevelt University in Chicago. Shannon (Mertz) Hillesheim ’94, New Ulm, Minn., has a new position as president of Bank Midwest. Todd VonBastiaan ’94, Las Vegas, Nev., was featured in an article titled “Todd VonBastiaans Keeps Art Alive and Well in the City” in Vegas Seven in September 2015. The article described his work in the Las Vegas art scene. Read more at http://vegasseven. com/2015/09/29/toddvonbastiaans. Gretchen (Schultz) Thuot ’95, Hatley, Wis., was promoted to chief operations officer with Integrity First Bank. Mike Callahan M’97, C’00, Lino Lakes, Minn., will be serving the Spring Lake Park School District as director of student services. Michael Hill M’97, Washington, D.C., is serving as president and chief executive officer for Youth for Understanding USA, one of the world’s largest intercultural exchange organizations. Gary Anger C’98, C’12, Apple Valley, Minn., is the new superintendent with Zumbrota-Mazeppa Public Schools. Gretchen Baumgardt, Ph.D. ’98, Milwaukee, Wis. is a visiting assistant professor of theology at Marquette University, Milwaukee. Michael Linden, M.D., Ph.D. ’98, St. Paul, Minn., is an assistant professor in the Laboratory Medicine and Pathology Department at the University of Minnesota. He was appointed director of hematopathology at the University of Minnesota Medical Center in July 2015.

2000-2009 Noelle Bartl M’01, Portales, N.M., was honored on National Philanthropy Day, Nov. 4, 2015, with the 2015 Outstanding Fundraising Professional Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals New Mexico Chapter in Albuquerque, N.M. Silvia Norberg M’01, Milaca, Minn., said farewell to the principal’s position at Abinoojiiyag School and began her new journey into retirement this past June. Kristine Schaefer C’01, New Brighton, Minn., was selected as District 833 coordinator of educational equity. Elizabeth Sheahan M’01, Vista, Calif., is the vice president of development for the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, the largest food bank serving San Diego County. Jolene Danca M’02, C’08, Winona, is the new assistant principal at Winona Senior High School. Bill ’02 and Meredith (Riewe) ’02 Daniel, Gaithersburg, Md., moved their family to Gaithersburg to pursue a new career for Bill as an assistant professor of Canon Law at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Tom Ritters M’02, C’05, Little Falls, Minn., is the new principal at Motley Staples Middle School. Sandy Sunde M’02, St. James, Minn., retired from teaching from St. James High School at the end of the 2015 school year. Nathan Flansburg C’03, Andover, Minn., is the new principal at Sunnyside Elementary in New Brighton.

Mark Huss M’03, C’05, Zimmerman, Minn., is the principal at Rogers Middle School. Kate (Slaboch) Kirkpatrick M’03, Reno, Nev., was named one of Reno-Tahoe’s 2015 “Twenty under 40” winners for local leaders by the Reno Gazette-Journal

and the Reno-Tahoe Young Professionals Network. Kevin Ryan ’03, Oak Lawn, Ill., is teaching English at Southland College Prep High School in south Chicagoland. He received a master’s degree in Secondary Education from St. Xavier University in Chicago.

Saint Mary’s community mourns passing of Brother Damian Steger, FSC ’58, M’90 Long-time administrator of Saint Mary’s Press, Brother Damian Steger, FSC ’58, M’90 passed away Jan. 6, 2016, at Saint Anne Extended Health Care in Winona. He was 79. A De La Salle Christian Brother for 61 years, he was born Thomas Martin Steger Feb. 24, 1936, in St. Louis, Mo., to John and Mary Elizabeth (Drumm) Steger. He graduated from Cretin High School in St. Paul, Minn., and obtained a B.A. in Business from Saint Mary’s University. He entered the novitiate of the Christian Brothers in 1954 in Glencoe, Mo., and pronounced his first vows in 1955 and his perpetual vows in 1961. He later earned an M.A. in Management from Saint Mary’s in 1990. Prior to his retirement in 2009, Brother Damian worked for Saint Mary’s Press for more than 50 years. He began working at Saint Mary’s Press as a pressman in 1958 and held a variety of positions. In 1974, he was asked to serve as the organization’s second president, a position he held for 27 years. He also served as its Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the corporation. While he worked at the press, he served as a hall director at Saint Mary’s University for several years, mentoring college students who share fond memories. He lived in several Christian Brothers communities in Winona over the years. He served on the Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees from 1984-94 and was also on the board of trustees and the finance committee at Lewis University in Illinois. And he served on the Christian Brothers Midwest District Finance Committee from 1995 to 2012. Brother Damian was instrumental in founding and sustaining Fe y Vida, which for 20 years has served the pastoral needs of young Hispanics and their formation leaders in the U.S. and Latin America. Memorials can be directed to the Brother Alphonsus Pluth Scholarship, c/o Megan Sadowski, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights #21, Winona, MN 55987.

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Class Notes Father Brent Lingle ’03, Sioux City, Iowa, serves as director of worship and episcopal master of ceremonies, vice-chancellor, special assistant to the diocesan bishop, and director of the propagation of faith. He has also been appointed as the director of pastoral planning for the Diocese of Sioux City. Emily (Theis) Reger ’03, Hudson, Wis., has a new position as a K-5 learning disabilities/special education teacher with North Hudson Elementary School. Alyssa Butenhoff Anguiano ’04, M’08, St. Charles, Minn., is the new part-time Spanish teacher for Dover-Eyota Public Schools. Dr. Kimberlee Herr M’04, Woodbury, Minn., left a position as an instructional design consultant with Buffalo Wild Wings in May 2015 to pursue a new opportunity as a senior instructional designer with Xtime, Inc., located in Bloomington, Minn. Debi Piscitiello M’04, Jamestown N.D., completed her Doctor of Philosophy in organization and management with specialization in management education from Capella University of Minneapolis. Michael Seiffert M’04, Hamel, Minn., was named head coach for the men’s and women’s golf teams at St. Cloud State University. Karen Sizemore M’04, Prescott, Minn., teaches first grade at Malone Elementary. Jennifer (Cochran) Biederman ’05, M’08, Winona, completed her Doctor of Philosophy in conservation biology from the University of MinnesotaTwin Cities.

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Leah Weber M’05, Shakopee, Minn., was named Jordan Elementary School Teacher of the Year.

Andrew Forbort M’08, Bethel, Minn., is the new high school principal in the Pine River-Backus School District.

Tiki Walicki M’09, Milwaukee, Wis., became a transition coordinator at Milwaukee Public Schools.

Ryan Norrell ’06, Mandan, N.D., has been named the first in-house legal counsel for Farm Credit Services of Mandan. He will manage the association’s legal functions, providing advice and counseling on general business and corporate law issues.

Lindsay (Dickson) Henning ’08, Minneapolis, accepted a job as director of advancement at the Loppet Foundation, a nonprofit organization in Theodore Wirth Park.

Greg Winter C’99, Braham, Minn., is the director of teaching and learning with Cambridge-Isanti Independent School District 911.

Steve Radtke C’06, Alexandria, Minn., is the new principal at Parkers Prairie Elementary School. Anne Feist M’07, Wells, Minn., is a seventh- and eighth-grade science teacher with Blue Earth Area Schools. Megan Lick ’07, Third Lake, Ill., released an album titled John Doe – King Henry. You can hear it at Listen@cdbay. com. Timothy Markus ’07, Lancaster, Pa., is a production manager with the Fulton Theatre. Father Nathan Sparks, NSJ ’07, Syracuse, N.Y., was ordained a priest on July 8, 2011. He is working as a second-year novice with the Society of Jesus, Northeast Province.

Father Jason Kern ’08, Mankato, Minn., is the chaplain at the Newman Center at Minnesota State University–Mankato. Rebecca (Yerhot) Roddy ’08, Austin, Minn., works for Hormel Foods as a senior cost accountant. Anna Skonieczny ’08, Aurora, Colo., accepted a position as a cytogenetic technologist (Tech II) position with the Colorado Genetics Laboratory, associated with the University of Colorado, in June 2015. George Vondracek M’08, S’10, Wells, Minn., started as the new principal at Most Holy Redeemer School on Oct. 1, 2015. Scott Anderson M’09, C’14, Brodhead, Wis., began his second career as a high school math teacher with Juda Public Schools.

Ariana Wright M’07, Kasson, Minn., became the new principal at KassonMantorville Elementary School.

Lindsay Jacobs M’09, Wisconsin Dells, Wis., is the new principal at West Side and Grayside Elementary Schools.

Lorie Abernethy M’08, CFRE, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, has a new position as executive director of the Janus Academy, a private, nonprofit school for children and youth with autism.

Kyle Klapperick M’09, Savage, Minn., was promoted to sergeant with the Savage Police Department.

Derrick Brown ’08, Milaca, Minn., accepted the head coaching position for hockey at St. Cloud Cathedral High School.

Scott Miller M’09, Pine Island, Minn., is the new kindergarten through eighthgrade computer science teacher with the Pine Island School District.

2010-2015 Benjamin Mohler M’10, CFRE, Richmond, Va., has received the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE) certification from the Association of Fundraising Professionals. The ACFRE is the highest credential available to a professional fundraiser. It is a distinguished achievement earned by only 108 professionals. Laura Bristle M’11, Montevideo, Minn., began teaching English at MACCRAY High School. Rebecca Nemeth M’11, Wadena, Minn., has a new position teaching sixth grade in the Menahga Public School District. Thayne Johnson M’12, Winsted, Minn., is the new activities director with Hutchinson High School. Michael Lehan M’12, Minneapolis, took over the principal position at Osseo Senior High School. Sean Picht M’11, Eden Prairie, Minn., has a new office in Eden Prairie with Edward Jones Company. Ryan Severson M’12, C’14, Alexandria, Minn., is the new dean of students with West Central Area School District #2342. Mandi Shimek M’13, Grand Rapids, Minn., joined

SPRING 2016

News about your classmates and colleagues Northland Counseling Center in August 2015. Desiree Caballero ’13, Faribault, Minn., works with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. She has been training in Vicksburg, Miss., before she starts her work volunteering in Kansas City, Mo. She will complete the program in April 2016. Jordan Junker ’13, Osceola, Wis., is working as a Spanish teacher at New Richmond High School. Rebekah (Kisrow) Lehn ’13, Hokah, Minn., graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth campus in June of 2015 with an M.S. in Physics. Tony Speltz ’13, M’15, Rollingstone, Minn., will instruct high school political science, economics, world history, and sports history with Luverne Public Schools. Laura Vatland ’13, Mabel, Minn., is the special education and Title I teacher for Lanesboro Public Schools. Bryan Volk M’13, Champlin, Minn., was appointed chief financial officer of Lindstrom Restoration in August 2015. Corrie Zoll M’13, Minneapolis, became the executive director at the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre. Brendan Cahill ’14, Naperville, Ill., finished working for Disney and is now working for McCormick Place as an event and technical service manager. Corey McKinnon C’14, Lindstrom, Minn., is the new director of activities and community education with North Branch Area Athletic Association.

Alaine Nelson C’14, Savage, Minn., joined the staff at Cannon Falls Elementary as a response to intervention teacher. Dannielle Bierly ’15, Minnesota City, Minn., is a lab technologist in the cytogenetics lab at Mayo Clinic. Ryan Burke ’15, St. Anthony, Minn., is serving as a police officer with the South Lake Police Department. Leanna Cernohous M’15, River Falls, Wis., has a new teaching position with Prescott High School. Connha Classon C’15, Woodbury, Minn., was named interim principal for Woodbury Elementary School for the 2015-16 school year. Molly Grover ’15, Zumbrota, Minn., teaches third grade at West Concord Public Charter School #4214. Sandy Sahl ’15, Nerstrand, Minn., teaches third grade at Kenyon-Wanamingo Elementary School. Amanda Zbacnik D’15, Esko, Minn., was hired as an assistant professor of teacher education in the Department of Educational Leadership at the University of Wisconsin-Superior.

WEDDINGS Jon Minnick ’02 married Danielle Paul on Sept. 26, 2015, at the Chapel of the Good Shepherd on Shattuck-St. Mary’s campus in Faribault, Minn. Alumni in attendance included: Jora (Deziel) Bart ’01, Eric Cronin ’01, Angela (Yockey) Gustafson ’01, M’06, Dan Gustafson ’01, Greg Haider ’02, Zach Handahl ’02, Paul Isaacson ’02, Kesney (LaBerge) McCarthy ’01, Stacey Minnick ’93, M’00,

Jamie Nowaczewski ’01, Rhonda Nowaczewski ’02, Aaron Poradzisz ’02, Andy Quarfoth ’01, Tommy Selbitschka ’02, Corey Strickland ’02, Leah (Moen) Strickland ’04, Jeanna Sullivan ’01, and Chris Tempel ’02. Scott Schultz ’03, Cary, Ill., to Brooke Flynn on Sept. 20, 2014, in Chicago. Saint Mary’s alumni in attendance were Brian O’Connell ’76, Brad Fox ’03, John Schmitz ’74, Paul Evon ’03, Matt Marani ’03, Austin Demuth ’03, Shawn McCarthy ’01, Sue Sughrua Schultz ’75, Justin Speiser ’03, Kristin Bajor Muntean ’75, Tom Frost ’75, Mary Dempsey ’75, Tom Schultz ’75, Pat Reedy ’02, Larry Hogan ’75, Kasey Schultz-Saindon ’08, Tim Huemoeller ’03, Dan Schultz ’77, Nancy Wiltgen

’75, John LeClair ’75, and Eric Saindon ’07. Fallon Devine ’09 to Alexander Modjeski, on July 11, 2015 at Saint Stanislaus Kostka basilica in Winona. Ryan Langr ’09 to Emily Degallier ’12, Winona, on June 29, 2013. Michelle Quinn ’11, C’12 to Brian Kusek ’11, on July 25, 2015. Saint Mary’s alumni in attendance included: Michelle Neitzke ’11, Jonah Lippert ’10, Father Mitchell Bechtold ’11, J.T. Weizeorick ’10, Joachim Ferk ’11, Joe Richards ’12, Sam Schepers ’12, Nick Merkt ’10, C’11, Ellen Bina-Koneck ’12, Mark Bina ’70, Elizabeth Shewmon ’11, Jennifer (Gees) Malecha ’10, John Gust ’09, Rebecca Gust ’09, Emily (Degallier) Langr ’12, Ryan Langr

Sarah (Bellingham) Laitinen ’07 named new RELAN representative to International Council of Young Lasallians Sarah (Bellingham) Laitinen ’07 has been appointed by Superior General Brother Robert Schieler as the new representative of the Lasallian Region of North America (RELAN) to the International Council of Young Lasallians (ICYL). Laitinen, a sixth-grade teacher at the San Miguel School in Providence, R.I., was a Lasallian Volunteer from 2007-09. She has attended various formation programs, including the Regional VEGA program in 2010, and graduated from the Buttimer Institute of Lasallian Studies in 2012. Laitinen attended the third International Symposium of Young Lasallians in February 2014 and is currently a member of RELAN’s Council of Young Lasallians, as well as a member of the District of Eastern North America’s Young Lasallians Steering Committee. Brother Robert Schieler remarked, “Sarah’s dedication to the mission, commitment to Lasallian association, and her service on district and Regional committees make her an ideal choice to represent RELAN on the ICYL. We look forward to her contributions to the council’s work.”

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Class Notes ’09, Nicole Krystosek ’11, Brandon Wanless ’10, Peter Waldorf ’10, Courtney (Lee) Borash ’12, Gary Borash ’09, C’13, Tim Streiff ’11, Father Bryan Kujawa ’11, and Father Jonathan Fasnacht ’11. Courtney Lee ’12 to Gary Borash ’09, C’13, Bowlus, Minn., on April 11, 2015. Dion Sussner M’13 to Becky Luedloff M’13, Litchfield, Minn., on Oct. 16, 2015. They met during Saint Mary’s University courses while working toward their master’s degrees. Sophie Harrison ’13 to James Fangel ’08, on Aug. 30, 2014, at Church of the Assumption in Saint Paul, Minn. Saint Mary’s alumni in attendance were John Delmundo ’11, Adam Billings ’13, Tim Sheedy ’11, Matthew Murphy ’11, Kelsey Vasko ’12, Stephen King ’11, Justine Tocko ’12, Kate Stapleton ’13, Abby Lough ’13, Andrew Fangel ’11, Stephanie (Sturges) Murphy ’12, Lauren Stiehl ’12, Trish Nguyen ’14, Jen Tobroxen ’14, D.J. Borgen ’12, John Nye ’11, David Gross ’08, Andrew Mahowald ’08, Mark Montanari ’08, Ryan Sondalle ’10, Shelby DeWall ’14, Danielle Pues ’15, Armando Salgado ’14, Adam McClung ’10, Susan Fangel M’08, and Nicole Higgins M’09.

BIRTHS Gary and Cynthia (Knox) Rackow ’97, Darien, Ill., a son, Daniel James Frederick, in April 2015. Danny joins big sisters Caroline, Abigail, and Margaret. Trent and Jennifer (Klinkner) Hagen ’98, M’06, La Salle, Minn., a son, David William, on May 13, 2015. He joins Kari, 18; Dustin, 15; Christopher, 6; Matthew, 4; and Annika, 3.

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Maggie (Clancy) Olson ’98, Chicago, a daughter, Gabrielle Rose, on May 5, 2015. Gabby joins brothers Joey, Nick, and Frankie. Michael Ratajczk ’03, M’05, Winona, a son, Edward, on Oct. 23, 2015. Brian and Jenna (Robling) Rodenz ’03, Chanhassen, Minn., a son, Andrew, on March 13, 2015. He joins Julia, 4, and Erica, 2. Meredie Sexton ’05, C’11, M’12, Rochester, Minn., a daughter in October 2014. Brodie Hacken ’06 and Lynn Albee ’06, M’07, a daughter, Isabelle Antoinette, on Nov. 5, 2014. She joins big sister Madelynn. Maggie and Ryan Norrell ’06, Bismarck, N.D., a son, Kieran John, on Aug. 1, 2015. He joins Mara, 6; Liam, 5; and Isaac, 3. Alex ’08 and Melissa (Powers) ’07 Walker, St. Michael, Minn., a daughter, Evelyn Marie, on June 17, 2015. Ryan ’09 and Emily (Degallier) ’12 Langr, Winona, a daughter, Philomena Anne, on May 27, 2015. Steven ’13 and Rebekah (Kisrow) ’13 Lehn, Hokah, Minn., a son, Gregory Steven, on July 2, 2015.

DEATHS Donald O. Linder ’47, Mankato Minn., March 10, 2015. Brother Joel Dolan, FSC ’48, Romeoville, Ill., on Dec. 12, 2015. Dr. James W. Kahl ’48, Winona, on June 24, 2015. Brother James McDonald, FSC ’48, Chicago, on Oct. 4, 2015.

Dr. Gordon L. Wills ’48, Memphis, Tenn., on May 15, 2015.

Thomas F. Burke ’60, Hastings, Minn., on March 24, 2015.

H. Patrick Cassidy ’49, Homer Glen, Ill., on Aug. 28, 2015.

Arthur A. Kusler ’62, West Bloomfield, Mich., on May 11, 2014.

Albert J. Hoffman ’49, Hopkins, Minn., on Dec. 24, 2014.

Thomas J. Ruddy ’62, St. Paul, Minn., on July 7, 2015.

Paul E. Drack ’50, Johns Creek, Ga., May 24, 2015. Hubert F. Kukowski ’53, West Allis, Wis., on April 9, 2015. Brother Leo Srubas, FSC ’53, Chicago, on Aug. 1, 2015. Richard M. Citti ’54, Northbrook, Ill., on March 30, 2015. Citti was one of the main representatives for the Class of 1954. Brother L. Cyril Litecky FSC ’54, M’56, Bethlehem, on April 4, 2015. Dr. H. Giles Schmid ’54, Winona, on April 11, 2015. Charles J. Stuparits ’54, Oakbrook, Ill., on July 30, 2015. Frank H. Burke ’55, Old Lyme, Conn., on Jan. 8, 2015. Brother Paul D. French, FSC ’55, Chicago, on Dec. 10, 2015. Paul D. McHale ’55, Eden Prairie, Minn., on July 14, 2015. Edmund H. Holten, Jr. ’57, Spring, Texas, on March 7, 2015. Robert J. Scurio ’57, Homer Glen, Ill., on March 24, 2015. Capt. Leonard A. Plein ’59, Sun City, Ariz., on Aug. 27, 2015. Charles F. Breckle ’55, Plainview, Minn., on June 5, 2015.

Robert C. Cachor ’63, Chicago, on March 24, 2015. Reed R. Hackenmiller ’65, Rockford, Ill., on Feb. 23, 2015. William C. McGurk ’65, Rochester, Minn., on April 7, 2015. Dr. Lawrence Crolla ’66, Surprise, Ariz., on March 6, 2015. William J. Glenday ’66, Michigan City, Ind., on April 21, 2015. Richard C. Heldorfer ’66, St. Charles, Mo., on June 4, 2015. Augusto D. Anderson ’71, Atwater, Minn., on April 26, 2015. Stephen V. Fabis ’71, Milwaukee, Wis., on Oct. 14, 2015. Frank C. Dunbar ’72, Medina, Minn., on March 10, 2015. Stephen F. Muza ’74, Menomonie, Wis., on May 4, 2015. Barbara A. Walker M’82, St. Paul, Minn., on May 22, 2015. Stefan A. Szymel ’83, Downers Grove, Ill., on Oct. 28, 2015. Dorothy A. Phinney M’88, Wauwatosa, Wis., on May 10, 2015. Dr. Victoria L. Beckett M’95, Rochester, Minn., on April 28, 2009. Mary K. Moga M’95, Maple Grove, Minn., on June 8, 2015.

SPRING 2016

Marcie E. TeutebergTaylor ’95, Oconomowoc Lake, Wis., on July 4, 2015. Sandra C. Kelley M’97, Plymouth, Minn., on May 18, 2015. Steven J. Groby ’01, Wabasha, Minn., on April 21, 2015. Joseph N. Becker ’11, Fort Wayne, Ind., on Feb. 1, 2014.

CURRENT/ FORMER EMPLOYEE DEATHS Mary Beth Bregen, faculty member in the M.A. in Instruction program and former National Teacher of the Year, on Jan. 25, 2016. She also worked for the U.S. Department of Education under the Clinton administration from 1997-2000. Jody L. Bronk, Information Technologies -Administrative Computing, on Jan. 6, 2016. Thomas J. Ruddy ’62, St. Paul, Minn., on July 7, 2015. Ruddy worked at Saint Mary’s from 1968 to 1974, working his way up from alumni director to vice president of college relations.

SYMPATHIES Mary (Edwards) Cassidy CST’49, Jack ’73 and Mary (Cassidy) ’75 Brawley, on the death of their husband, father, and father-in-law, H. Patrick Cassidy ’49, on Aug. 28, 2015. Paul Hoffman ’49, Mike ’72 and Eileen (Hoffman) ’73 Ostrem,

and Margaret Hollman ’76, on the death of their brother, father, and father-in-law, Albert Hoffman ’49, on Dec. 24, 2014. Daniel Keegan ’55, on the death of his wife Aileen Keegan on Jan. 7, 2016. Jim Pacholski ’63, on the death of his wife Donna on Sept. 28, 2015, after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer just two months short of their 50th wedding anniversary. Thomas Meagher Sr. ’53, Michael ’87 and Margaret (Drennan) ’87 Meagher, and Terence ’91 and Barbara (Butler) ’89 Meagher, on the death of their wife, mother, and mother-inlaw, Mona Meagher, on Sept. 28, 2015. John Ruddy ’70, on the death of his brother, Tom Ruddy ’62, on July 7, 2015. Terry Klages ’71, on the death of his father, Edward Klages, on Dec. 21, 2015, in Altoona, Wis. Thomas ’75 and Susan (Sughrua) ’75 Schultz, Daniel Schultz ’77, Carol Schultz ’83, Dr. Kasey Schultz-Saindon ’08 (Eric Saindon ’07), and Scott Schultz ’03 on the death of their mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother, Frances Schultz, on Oct. 8, 2015. Molly Coskran ’86, on the death of her mother, Maureen C. Coskran, on Sept. 5, 2014 and father, John T. Coskran, on Oct. 16, 2014. John Forst ’00, on the death of his mother, Jean Roberts Forst, on Jan. 12, 2014.

What’s new with you? Alumni — send us your news! Saint Mary’s Magazine and our alumni class news website welcome contributions to the Alumni Class Notes sections. We want your personal and professional news items. Photos, news clippings, etc., are also welcome, as well as tips about fellow alums who might make good feature story subjects. Photos will be displayed online only. Mail or fax this form, or submit your news online or by email. SEND TO: SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY 700 Terrace Heights #21 Winona, MN 55987-1399 Fax: 507-457-6967 Contact us online: mysmumn.org Email: alumni@smumn.edu SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: Alumni Class Notes are printed in the Saint Mary’s Magazine and/or online so that Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota alumni can share news of significant events in their lives. We welcome items about personal and professional achievements, as well as life milestones such as weddings, births, adoptions and deaths. We do not print news of engagements or pregnancies. We also do not print notices of non-legal commitment ceremonies. Photos and news clippings are welcome, but cannot be returned. Announcements will run in the magazine and/or online. Photos will only appear online due to space constraints. MINIMUM SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS: Your legal name, class year and email address; spouse’s legal name, class year and email address (if applicable); home address; and home phone number. Other useful information includes your business title, company name, address, phone number and e-mail address. Name

Class Year

Email Spouse’s name

Class Year

Email Address City, State, ZIP Home phone Business name Business address City, State, ZIP Business phone Your title Years in this position What’s new? n Check here if your son or daughter would like to receive Saint Mary’s admission materials. A representative will contact you for more details. SMUMN.EDU/MAGAZINE

55

LETTERS Confessions of an alumnus

I remember. There were just a few (eight to 10, maybe more) of us staring at the mound of wood/trees collected over a few days. We were a little saddened that there was nothing else to do. It was about noon I think. Someone suggested we light the pile ahead of time. We laughed a little at the thought. But things were just so uneventful and that quickly became a good, daring, exciting idea. And it happened easily, the wood was dry. Of course the fire grew, expanded quickly and I headed back to school to avoid personal discovery. The draft (military service) was required; being in school provided a temporary deferment but if you were not a full-time student you had to go. We did not acknowledge participation in this event, for obvious reasons. I remember the high excitement in the lunchroom; students quickly went to the windows. I kept busy, head down, doing something else. “What fire?” The danger: Get caught, dismissed from school, lose deferment! We participants did not acknowledge being involved. School management let it slide but warned they would never forgive again. Classes were cancelled so that a new, bigger wood pile could be created. Which it did. It was fun, added excitement but was dangerous. I remember it well.

CALENDAR WINONA CAMPUS APRIL 14

Employee service awards and student life awards

22

Celebration of Scholarship and Honors Convocation

23

Benefactor Recognition Dinner

28

Study day

29-30

Final exams

MAY 2-3

Final exams

5

Faculty/Staff End of Year Dinner

5-6

Board of Trustees meetings

7

Winona Campus Commencement

JULY 6–15

Online summer course session

SCHOOLS OF GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS APRIL 24

Spring Semester and Term 2 end

MAY 2

Summer Semester and Term 1 begin

10

Spring luncheon and employee awards

27-30

University holiday—campus closed at 6 p.m.

— Pat King ’52

You should highlight wrestling

A story about the wrestling team of the last two years of the sport would be interesting. In 1976-77, there were three freshmen who started varsity that year with Jerry Workman as our coach. He was also my coach in high school. I have photos of the uniform I wore in my final match when wrestling ended at Saint Mary’s. I also have a scrapbook of our team. I started heavyweight my freshman year. That year and into my sophomore year I lost 103 pounds. I was tired of wrestling big huge guys. Jerry asked me one day what I was doing losing weight. Then he asked, “What am I going to do for a heavyweight?” Jerry had me continue at heavyweight. I remember being around 200 pounds and wrestling Mel Koeing for St. John’s who weighed 325 pounds. — Tom Zuccaro ’80

56

LETTERS

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 email editor Deb Nahrgang at dnahrgan@smumn.edu.

Correction

A photograph in the spring/summer Saint Mary’s Magazine contained misinformation in a photo from the men’s hockey alumni gathering in the Twin Cities on page 38. The parents of Phil Heinle ’17 (as well as fellow hockey player Jeremy Heinle ’18) are Dennis Heinle and Carleen Myers. Sue Heinle, photographed, is Phil and Jeremy’s stepmother.

SPRING 2016

LOOKING BACK

WHAT A

SNOWY

RUSH Chances are, if you are a lover of all that cold white fluffy stuff, and you have a craving for fun, you’ve slid down one of the Yon’s valley hills on Saint Mary’s Winona Campus. The close-up photo is circa 1978. The other was taken in the 1960s. Students, through the years, have become quite crafty about the items they’ve used to slide on, including cafeteria trays. Anyone with additional information about these photos 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 email to: dnahrgan@smumn.edu.≠

WINONA CAMPUS 700 TERRACE HEIGHTS #21 WINONA, MN 55987-1399 USA

3

Reasons to Reunite

Science Gala n Reunion Weekend n Bogey Bash

SCIENCE GALA

REUNION WEEKEND

BOGEY BASH

MAY 21, 2016 CHICAGO

JUNE 24-26, 2016 WINONA

AUG. 12, 2016 CHICAGO