These are faces of students, current and past, graduate and undergraduate. Because of you, these individuals will go out and transform the world. Saint Mary’s wouldn’t be what it is today without the generosity of everyone who supports this university — as you’ll read about in our most recent record-breaking campaign success. Additionally, we thank everyone who shares their time, talent, and vision — everyone who cheers on our Cardinals and hires our graduates. Because of you ... we are stronger!
VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY RELATIONS
Michelle Rovang
EDITOR
Deb Nahrgang dnahrgan@smumn.edu
ALUMNI DIRECTOR
Tracy Heaser
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Abbie Campion, Lynette Johnson M’24, Deb Nahrgang
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rick Bush; Bob Conover; Geoffrey DeMarsh; Chris Ebert B’20, C’22, M’23; Deb Nahrgang
PRODUCTION
Ashly Bissen, Sara Fitterer, Megan French, Tim DeCelle
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Bill Neumiller
ART DIRECTOR
Maria Beyerstedt
PRINTED BY La Crosse Graphics
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Saint Mary’s Magazine
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota 700 Terrace Heights #21 Winona, MN 55987-1399
ON THE WEB smumn.edu/magazine
ABOUT SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
Grounded in Lasallian Catholic values, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota awakens, nurtures, and empowers learners to ethical lives of service and leadership. Whether in person or online, adult or undergraduate, students are treated with respect, taught with humanity, and supported by faculty and staff committed to their success in programs designed to prepare graduates for today’s and tomorrow’s careers. Founded in 1912 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Saint Mary’s enrolls 3,656 students at its undergraduate and graduate programs on campuses in Minneapolis, Rochester, Winona, and online. Saint Mary’s offers a highly personal, realworld-ready educational experience that fully prepares students to work, lead, and serve with character and purpose. Learn more at smumn.edu.
The Cardinal Fastpitch Softball team made it all the way to the World Series, and although they didn’t advance, they’ll always be No. 1 in our hearts!
Because of you
They’re just three little words, but just like one other powerful three-word combination — “I love you” — we know that three words can hold a lot of meaning.
It’s one reason we chose “Because of you” as a tagline for our university. If you look at the signage around campus, you may read, “Because of you … a new idea will change the world” or “There is a place in the world that will never be the same … Because of you.” These words reflect what we believe our students (because of the amazing people they are) will accomplish with their degrees and even before they graduate.
It’s particularly fitting that we chose this theme for this magazine as we wrap up another record-breaking comprehensive capital campaign. Because of you — our generous supporters and benefactors — we are able to accomplish great things in the classrooms, in our labs, in our athletics arenas, and in our living and learning environment as a whole. Our students and our alumni reflect that. They simply are THE BEST people I have ever met.
So when we talked about who we should interview for this magazine, we thought about people who fit the “because of you” mold. These individuals are special because they make a difference to people. And as we share
their stories, we complete the circle as they share what “because of you” stories have inspired them.
Hudda Ibrahim D’25 has worked tirelessly to address housing disparity and inequalities in Saint Cloud — even before she was elected as the first Muslim immigrant woman to serve on the Saint Cloud City Council. Many of her constituents would definitely tell her, “because of you,” our lives are better. Ibrahim tells Saint Mary’s, “because of you,” I am able to better serve my constituents. Education, she says, is the key to opening doors.
Sue Hines M’01, D’07 has helped countless students and faculty in her lengthy career at Saint Mary’s, particularly in faculty development and her current roles teaching in the Ed.D. program and as vice president for academic affairs for Minneapolis/Rochester/ Online. So many people have “because of you” stories because of her work. Yet, Dr. Hines believes that the feeling she gets watching one of the graduate students she has mentored cross the stage is the “best thing in the world as a professor.” It’s “because of” this connection, she feels fulfilled in her work.
Philip Emmerich B’16 assisted Saint Mary’s with the previous record capital campaign. We were grateful for how much he shared
his story to help the university raise funds for a new science building the then-senior and hopeful cancer researcher would never get to utilize. Thanks to many, including Emmerich, we reached our $73 million goal. Dr. Emmerich continues the fight against cancer and currently works as a medical science liaison on the oncology team at Gilead Sciences and believes “because of” Saint Mary’s, he started on the right path.
Darlene Paulson came to Saint Mary’s in 1976. Immediately, she found herself surrounded by a family, particularly the De La Salle Christian Brothers. She stayed “because of” those relationships. Though her title changed throughout the years, her smile never has, and in her current role with Chartwells, she continues to brighten the lives of Saint Mary’s students every single day. They tell us that “because of” Darlene, they feel like family at this university.
Patrice Henning B’84, M’21 and two other Saint Mary’s alumni from Nairobi founded The Centre of Love Foundation in Kenya. “Because of” them, thousands of people have access to clean and safe water, better nutrition, and valuable knowledge. And “because of” the power of Saint Mary’s connections, even around the globe, great things can be
accomplished. Let’s think about how we can work together to do more!
And because of our Catholic Educator Promise, we believe the first of its kind, the impossible is possible for several incoming students in our 2025 fall class. A Saint Mary’s education is now in reach because at least one of their parents has dedicated their career to Catholic education. Hear their stories, and know that, as a Lasallian Catholic university, Saint Mary’s is committed to paying back those who have given so much.
Please continue to share your story, come to events, check in on those favorite people here, and cheer on your Cardinals. Refer a Cardinal. Consider furthering your degree. Because of you, we grow stronger.
Enjoy this issue, and know that because of you, we are grateful every day.
ALUMNI, SEND US YOUR NEWS
We want your personal and professional news items – photos, news clippings, etc., as well as tips about fellow alums who might make good feature story subjects. For submission guidelines and how to submit your news, go to connect. smumn.edu/alumni/ classnotes.
Deb Nahrgang Saint Mary’s Magazine Editor
We have navigated this campaign with great trust and hope in an inspiring vision for the future.
Father James P. Burns, IVD, Ph.D., president
$130 million!
Saint Mary’s closes most ambitious campaign in university history
Nearly everything at Saint Mary’s has a “because of you” story. Throughout its history, it’s been the people, generously sharing their vision, time, talent, and treasures, who have expanded and elevated the university into much more than an educational institution.
Saint Mary’s has always been committed to providing a transformational experience for students of all ages, backgrounds, and dreams. And, with its newest comprehensive campaign, “Rooted in Faith: Growing Our Future,” the university has evermore reinforced its focus on its students.
This is why there was great cause for celebration on May 1, 2025, as Father James P. Burns, IVD, Ph.D., Saint Mary’s president, announced to faculty, staff, and benefactors,
“Tonight I am honored to announce that ‘Because of You,’ we have completed the largest and most expansive campaign in Saint Mary’s history. On the heels of our previous largest campaign, raising over $73 million, we were able to strive for our latest comprehensive campaign
goal of $125 million with a belief in all of you, the dedicated Saint Mary’s family.
“I am now humbled to share that we have exceeded our goal and raised more than $130 million dollars and counting.”
Father Burns thanked the talents and hard work of Gary Klein M’04, then vice president for Advancement, and the Advancement team, as well as campaign co-chairs Sandra (Kaiser) Simon CST’72 and Roger B’67 and Elaine Haydock. “We extend our deepest gratitude for their altruistic purpose, dedication, and a compelling vision throughout this campaign,” he said.
He added, “We have navigated this campaign with great trust and hope in an inspiring vision for the future.
“Given that over 98 percent of campaign contributions were benefactor-designated to specific priorities (including the transformation of the Adducci Science Center into Aquinas Hall, student scholarships, the new David R. Thies B’59 Arena, endowed chairs in nursing, and character and virtue), we continue to
(continued on page 6)
Guillou creates coasters to help kick off campaign
For a special memento of the campaign kickoff, Saint Mary’s turned to Dan Guillou, of Oceanside, Calif. Guillou grew up on Saint Mary’s Winona Campus. His father, Lou Guillou B’58, was a math professor for over 30 years, and Dan Guillou can recite names of the De La Salle Christian Brothers, who were close family friends. So when he was asked to do 800 coasters and 200 holders in honor of the university’s capital campaign, he was excited for several reasons. For starters, he knows his parents would get a set and be proud.
Additionally, although an inventor at heart, he said that previously he has had to rely on others to take his visions from concept to completion. A few years ago he started 3D printing and laser engraving/cutting. Now, for the first time, he was able to carry out a vision entirely on his own, despite his physical limitations.
At 16, Dan Guillou tragically broke his neck after a swimming and diving accident. In an instant, he was paralyzed in his legs and partially paralyzed in his arms and hands. But he will be the first to tell you he has not let that stop him from living life to the fullest possible, which has included skydiving, ziplining, and earning a Gold Medal playing wheelchair rugby in the 2000 Summer Paralympics in Sydney, Australia.
A percentage of proceeds from his coaster sales also go to another of Dan Guillou’s loves, Canine Companions (canine.org), a cause dear to his heart. Mr. Vanetter or “Van” for short, is Dan Guillou’s third service dog. These dogs, he says, not only serve as physical helpers, but also have lifted his spirits during difficult days.
Elaine and Roger B’67 Haydock, J.D., trustee, and Business and Communication Department faculty member, generously donated the coasters for the event.
Dan Guillou and his service dog, Mr. Vanetter.
Ann Merchlewitz M’95, J.D.; Brother Robert Schieler, FSC, trustee; Brother Thomas Johnson, FSC, trustee; Brother Michael Fehrenbach, FSC, trustee; and Angela (Scully) Steger B’76, trustee, gather for the celebration.
Nancy Wiltgen B’75; Robert J. Cerone B’75, trustee; and Michael J. Laak B’77, trustee, join the celebration.
Roger B’67 and Elaine Haydock, campaign cochairs and inspiring Lasallian Catholic leaders, are honored by Father James P. Burns, IVD, Ph.D., president. Roger Haydock was also recognized during the ceremony for faithfully and passionately serving as a trustee for two terms, for his work on committees, and for his tireless support to the university and to Saint Mary’s students.
We reflect on the legacy of those who came before us — the visionaries, educators, and supporters who built the foundation of Saint Mary’s. Their commitment to education, faith, and service has guided this institution for over a century. Watch a short tribute to them all here:
reach for our goals to strengthen our Catholic identity, ensure financial sustainability, and expand opportunities for our students. Our work is not done as we strive to ensure that we will have a Saint Mary’s future that will make a Saint Mary’s education accessible to all.”
The comprehensive campaign was divided into four initiatives:
Student Success: The priority here is to ensure the success and well-being of every student, encompassing both their academic journey and personal growth. This includes initiatives such as raising funds for scholarships to make higher education accessible to all, supporting our First Generation Initiative to provide specialized resources and mentorship for first-generation college students, and enhancing our Career Services to equip students with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in their chosen fields postgraduation.
Academic & Co-Curricular Experience: By prioritizing the integration of academic excellence with a rich array of co-curricular opportunities, we are able to create a holistic learning environment that empowers students to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.
Lasallian Catholic Mission and Endowment Growth: Our Lasallian Catholic mission is the essence of our institution’s identity, guiding every one of our interactions and commitments. We value critical thinking, problem-solving, and character-building as much as academic excellence. Recognizing the importance of sustaining our mission-driven initiatives, we seek philanthropic investment in our endowment growth. Through prudent stewardship and strategic investment, we fortify the foundation of our mission, securing resources to empower future generations in their pursuit of knowledge, character, and service.
Operational Vitality: By securing essential resources to optimize our operations, we ensure the delivery of an exceptional Lasallian Catholic educational experience while effectively managing costs and adapting to changing needs and circumstances. The Saint Mary’s Fund, the Annual Trustees Entrepreneurial Fund, and funds for technology are vital components of this strategic priority, providing the necessary support to sustain and enhance our institutional capabilities.
To learn more about the campaign, go to smumn.edu/rooted-in-faith.
Students create meaningful gift to complete campaign
For the conclusion of the campaign, Saint Mary’s also wanted a special commemorative leave behind, and they looked internally, to the talented work coming out of the Anthony B’59 and Sandra Adducci Family Makerspace, where students are working on everything from textiles to neon lights and from woodworking to 3D printing and more.
With the help of Matt Klosky, assistant professor, director of the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies, and our resident woodworker, and Terra Lieser, makerspace coordinator — along with the hard work of Saint Mary’s students, 180 blocks of wood were carved, poured with resin, and sanded. They beautifully display Saint Mary’s logo and the words, “Because of you,” — words that express the university’s gratitude to everyone who has supported this campaign, and all those, including faculty and staff, who have dedicated their time and their energy to caring and nurturing our students. And, made by our own students’ hands, they take on a special meaning.
The gifts were made possible by Betty and the late Jon Kabara B’48 through the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies. All the wood for the gifts was locally donated and sourced.
Matt Klosky, assistant professor, director of the Kabara Institute, and resident woodworker; senior Connor Beutin, makerspace intern and one of the students who worked on the giveaways; and Terra Lieser, makerspace coordinator, showcase more than 180 of the completed pieces.
Retiree Ken Kersting, center, and his wife Theresa (Landrus) Kersting B’84 pose with Christian Brothers, from left: Brother Bede Baldry, FSC; Brother Roger Betzold, FSC B’71; and Brother Jon Grover, FSC B’65.
Saint Mary’s students joined the festivities.
The Slaggie Family Foundation
overseen by Stephen and Barbara Slaggie
Knowing many, including our son and my siblings, who have attended Saint Mary’s, we know the knowledge and strong leadership they foster in their students. We are galvanized by the change Saint Mary’s students and alumni are able to make, and want to see that continue through our gi .
~ Stephen Slaggie
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Advancements in cancer research
Pursuing a career passion explored in college
During Saint Mary’s previous largest $73 million capital campaign, Philip Emmerich B’16 was in his senior year as a biochemistry and molecular biology major.
A large portion of that campaign was focused on constructing a new science building on the Winona Campus, a cause dear to Emmerich’s heart. And though he knew he’d never personally benefit from the new construction, he assisted with a video campaign to raise awareness, encourage benefactors to donate, and share his story.
Emmerich wanted to be a cancer researcher, and even as an undergraduate student, he was on the path to becoming one. He had served as a summer research fellow through the Gundersen Health System, through which he helped analyze the prevalence of a BRAF mutation in lung cancer patients in the La Crosse, Wis., area and presented his findings.
Fast forward nearly 10 years, another record campaign completion, and the corresponding progress.
Dr. Emmerich did indeed follow the path of cancer research; he is currently working as a medical science liaison on the oncology team at Gilead Sciences, and though he’s still never stepped inside what is now Aquinas Hall, he stays current on all the changes that have happened at his alma mater, particularly in the sciences. On the other end of the spectrum, Dr. Emmerich can tell you all the advancements that have happened in cancer research in the past decade. It’s part of what continues to fuel him in his work.
“When you get the wins it’s easy to hold onto them because you’re making such a big difference,” he said.
After graduating from Saint Mary’s, he attended graduate school at the University
of Wisconsin-Madison, where he served as a teacher’s assistant under an oncologist, through which he said he learned both the patient-facing side, while also working on biopsy samples and correlative work to support the research side — focusing on colorectal cancer. He earned his Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Pathology in 2020 and continued as a postdoctoral researcher until 2021.
He then joined Bristol Myers Squibb as a medical science liaison on their biomarkers team, supporting cancer work. “What I did in that role was talk about the scientific innovation my company was doing to providers, running samples for patients and then, cross talk, bringing back the latest innovations occurring in the field to my company,” he said.
In March of 2023, he transitioned to his current role with Gilead Sciences, through which he is supporting the development of FDA-approved therapies as well as products still in development, for patients afflicted with several types of solid tumors.
“I now work with medical oncologists in the breast cancer space,” he said, explaining that his role is a great way to use his advanced degree without having to live in a major metropolitan area. “I live in Eau Claire, Wis., and I don’t have to be in Chicago or Minneapolis and can still make an impact on a Fortune 500 Company working against cancer,” he said.
And, he said, he enjoys that each day is different, from attending major academic and medical conferences (like ASCO in Chicago with leading medical oncologists) to the day-to-day interactions (which could include going to a local cancer clinic to share data or answer questions like possible side effects of medication, or working within the internal side
of the company, like connecting with sales and marketing).
“This industry moves quickly,” he said. “This role sits at a cool interface with medical oncologists where one day I’m talking with someone who is the head of the breast cancer department of the University of Chicago who is on the cutting edge, with all the latest data, and I can gain information from her and learn from her experiences, and the next day I’m at the Marshfield Clinic where I’m talking with someone who sees maybe two breast cancer patients a month and they don’t have the same bandwidth or resources, and I’m able to bring what I learned to the community provider … who may not otherwise have been privy to the details I was able to share.”
Dr. Emmerich knows that cancer research doesn’t happen without many people working together, sharing knowledge, and trusting the science.
“Being one of those people and seeing those changes is a really rewarding experience,” he said. “People don’t know how much change is happening. Real things are happening. Cancer isn’t this big block disease. Not everyone has this dismal diagnosis. There are kinks in the armor.
“Things exist now that didn’t 10 years ago, and certainly not 15 years ago. The general public needs to understand that progress is being made very rapidly and trust medicine to make those advances and care for patients. It’s when that mistrust occurs, that saddens me when that happens.”
Dr. Emmerich said, looking back, although he never got to do his research in the new science labs at his alma mater, it didn’t matter.
“Saint Mary’s was pivotal to getting me where I am,” he said. “This isn’t to disparage the new building because updating technology and facilities is important, but it’s easy to say go to where there’s the most research funding, the most grants, or the best reputation for XYZ. You think these enormous universities will somehow automatically get you to where you want to be as a scientist.
“Resources are important, but what you learn and what you internalize and what you bring with you is the most important part of
your degree,” he added. “Who are you as a person, what values do you have? That’s what I developed in time at Saint Mary’s. That’s when I learned how I view the world, how to listen before you speak, how to empathize. Those are just as important. Saint Mary’s liberal arts approach to education allowed me to marry those two things and allowed me to have the career I have now.”
Dr. Philip Emmerich B’16 currently works as a medical science liaison on the oncology team at Gilead Sciences, where he works to fight breast cancer.
Using education to change lives
Serving as a voice for diverse populations in Saint Cloud
Hudda Ibrahim D’25, who earned her Ed.D. in Leadership at Saint Mary’s in June, knows that education opens doors — and helps win elections and ultimately helps her serve her constituents to the best of her ability.
When Ibrahim felt anxiety, running as the first Muslim immigrant woman to serve on the Saint Cloud, Minn., City Council, she was encouraged by these words: “I will be voting for you because of your education.”
“That gave me the confidence to go and knock on more doors,” she said. “I began to realize they don’t care about my skin color, certainly not my hijab, nor my accent. They care that I am someone who has the education and the skills to become a leader in the city. This changed my preconception of ‘What if my identity, the way I look, or the way I dress impacts the outcome of my election?’ My positive experience in interacting and engaging with the voters really gave me that confidence to continue. I knew I was a great candidate and a strong one if I moved forward.”
On a unanimous vote in December 2024, city councilors appointed Hudda Ibrahim to fill a Ward 3 vacancy on the seven-member panel.
She had run for city council earlier and lost, but with a new vacancy came a new opportunity for her to expand her lifelong work of advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Hudda Ibrahim D’25 is the first Muslim immigrant woman to serve on the Saint Cloud City Council, where she is prioritizing housing shortages, supporting small businesses, and ensuring safe neighborhoods for all.
Her top priorities as a city council member are centered around addressing housing shortages, supporting small businesses, and ensuring safe neighborhoods. She will ensure all voters have an equal voice in Saint Cloud, where 30.3 percent of the population identify as people of color.
She also currently works with OneCommunity Alliance, again helping address disparities and inequalities, particularly focusing on Saint Cloud’s housing shortages. Previously she worked at St. Cloud Technical & Community College, where she taught diversity and social justice.
And, she started Diverse Voices Press to “give attention to the unheard voices of refugees, immigrants, and other underrepresented people, affirming their limitless capacity for resilience and success.”
In total, she’s authored six children’s books with titles like “What Color is My Hijab?”; “Basra Wants to Be a Paramedic”; and “Mohamed Goes to the Moon” — all to show young Muslim children, and all children, that they can be anything they want to be when they grow up.
She believes she inherited leadership skills and advocacy genes from her family, which fled Kenya during the civil war in Somalia. Her mother was also an educator and her father was first a police officer, working his way all the way up to a colonel in the Somali army before they came to Minnesota.
“I came from a family of educators and policymakers. My dad was always very active in his community … and he always taught us to be kind to others and respect our neighbors. And I think those are the things that stayed with me. And I remember when I first thought of running for local office, I would remember my dad telling
me, ‘Hudda, believe in yourself. Trust yourself. You are capable of doing these things.’ ”
Ibrahim said she always knew she’d wanted to pursue an education degree, particularly in leadership. Having attended private Catholic schools previously, she appreciated Saint Mary’s heritage.
“It has been a game changer for me, not just for the city council, but also in the consulting firm that I was running,” she said. “It gave me the skills and the attributes that I wanted. As a nonprofit organization director, it helped me sharpen my leadership and policy skills. Now I can make informed and data-driven decisions.
“The program has also strengthened my ability to collaborate and resolve conflicts … and communicate effectively, which is so important when engaging with diverse stakeholders and beyond that, I would also say it’s given me the tools to advocate for education and equity.”
Ibrahim believes so strongly in the program that she is now recruiting her husband to enroll. “Saint Mary’s has world-class professors, professors who do care about the work that they’re doing, and the colleagues, the people that I met in this program were amazing,” she added. “And the valuable connections that you build when you’re a part of this program is something that no money can buy, seriously.”
The program has also strengthened my ability to collaborate and resolve conflicts … and communicate effectively, which is so important when engaging with diverse stakeholders and beyond that, I would also say it’s given me the tools to advocate for education and equity.
Hudda Ibrahim D’25
No matter what her title has been, Darlene Paulson has been helping faculty, staff, and students at Saint Mary’s since 1976 — always with a smile.
Service with a smile
Students say they know the ‘lunch lady’ cares
Darlene Paulson has been a smiling face at Saint Mary’s for nearly 50 years — even when you couldn’t see her face.
When Paulson ran the switchboard, she instructed others to smile when they answered the phone because it changed the inflection of their voices, making everyone sound more warm and friendly when they talked to people calling in to the university.
No matter what role she’s had — and she’s had several — it’s an infectious trait she’s shared in all of them.
Paulson came to Saint Mary’s in 1976 when her then-boss at the local radio station started working at the university and said he was bringing her along.
Her first role at the then-college was in alumni/parent relations and then eventually she became alumni director. One thing she is most proud of from her time in the alumni office is starting the future alumni association.
“It was fun. I had a good group of students, and I just wanted them to understand that when they graduated, we didn’t just want their addresses because we were going to ask for money, there were other things to get involved with, like activities and alumni events,” she said. “We wanted them to stay connected.”
For about two years, until 1985, she also worked in the president’s office,
with two presidents, Brother Peter Clifford, FSC, and Brother Louis DeThomasis, FSC.
Brother Louis then had other roles for Paulson, putting her in charge of the Toner Student Center, where she oversaw the switchboard, the mailroom, university vehicles and approved drivers.
Those were the days before cell phones. The switchboard was the only way callers on campus or off campus could reach one another. And if a student worker didn’t show up, whether sick or otherwise, it was Paulson who filled in during the midnight shift.
“A year later, Brother Louis said we needed to start some summer programs,” Paulson said. “Vice President Dan Maloney said, ‘You need to write up a business operations plan,’ which I had never done before. I had to look up how to do that. But eventually we got that going pretty successfully, mostly nonprofits. That was fun too.”
Paulson took over conferencing services and soon was busy getting guests checked in, making sure their beds were made or stripped, and ensuring they had a pleasant stay.
One of her proudest moments at Saint Mary’s was earning the Bishop Heffron Award in 1998. Besides giving the speech for that award, her most embarrassing moment happened while rushing across Highway 14, in heels and silk stockings, to Watters Hall and falling, tumbling repeatedly while a student watched in fear that she was hurt. Fortunately, the only thing seriously hurt was her pride … and her silk stockings. Paulson said, there was a job to be done, and they got up and soldiered on.
She worked at Saint Mary’s until 2016 when changes were made and she transitioned to Chartwells as an office manager. She said the new job was ideal because she was able to stay on campus and continue her contact with the Saint Mary’s family she — and her husband John who taught in the music department for 35 years — had grown so close to throughout their careers.
“It’s always been a family,” she said. “The Brothers mentored me. They have always helped me. Faculty, staff, and students were always a family, but now it’s mostly the
students I see. They’re so sweet. They give me birthday cards and Valentine’s Day cards, and they’re full of hugs.”
Currently, Darlene is a cashier for Chartwells. “It’s a good old lady job, and you can quote me on that,” she says laughing. You see all the students and there’s no stress. It’s perfect. I’ll stay as long as they’ll have me and I’m able.”
One day the Paulsons were out for dinner and they bumped into a student and her family. The student excitedly waved and said, “There’s the lunch lady,” and wanted to introduce her family, much to her surprise.
As senior Blake Arneson says, “Darlene is the first person you see every morning, always has a smile on her face, and always has the uncanny ability to make you laugh and smile to start your day off right!”
Sophomore Nikolai Niemela agrees. “Darlene welcomes me every morning with a smile and a hello. She is always so easy to talk to and super helpful. We still catch up and talk about our lives when there isn’t a line behind me. Darlene is the best!”
And senior Breyton Buysman adds, “Everyone who eats in the cafeteria knows Darlene and how truly awesome she is! From the moment we walk up to grab breakfast or lunch, she’s always there at the front table, greeting us with a warm, infectious smile that makes us feel welcome! Darlene has a way of making even the busiest mornings feel a little brighter. She makes each interaction feel personal, and that sense of connection adds so much to the experience. It’s not just about getting your food, but about being greeted by someone who truly cares, which is rare and special. Her warm presence on campus is a reminder of the power of kindness and how much a smile can really change someone’s day. Darlene is a dose of positivity and community that we all look forward to.”
Paulson is also hoping to continually be asked to help serve during Reunion Weekend, when she has been reunited with several alumni whom she may not always recognize by name, but who bring back memories — and definitely smiles.
She makes each interaction feel personal, and that sense of connection adds so much to the experience. It’s not just about getting your food, but about being greeted by someone who truly cares, which is rare and special.
Buysman B’25
Breyton
When I question where the resources are going to come from, I pray to Saint John Baptist de La Salle, and I believe he has stood by me every step of the way, and he answers my prayers. I always think about how he didn’t give up.
Patrice
Henning B’84, M’21
Touching hearts and transforming lives
Alumni join forces to help the underserved in Nairobi
Patrice Henning B’84, M’21 will tell you that in order to climb a mountain, you have to take that first step, have faith, and envision yourself at the top.
That’s how she’s been able to summit Tanzania’s Mount Meru and climb to the top of Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, twice!
Anyone who knows Henning knows that she has the strength, passion, and Lasallian spirit, not only to climb mountains but to move mountains, particularly when it comes to serving others.
On a visit to Africa in 2014, she attended a commencement ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya, through Saint Mary’s then partnership with Christ the Teacher Institute for Education (CTIE).
That day would forever change her life, largely because of introductions made by Brother Dennis Lee, FSC. She says it was the day her Lasallian family expanded by 1,100 alumni, mostly living in Kenya.
In 2018, Henning, along with two other Saint Mary’s graduates, Jeremiah Mumo B’12 and Anthony Hulula B’06 from CTIE, founded The Centre of Love Foundation (TCOLF) in Kenya. Its mission is to make the world a better place. (Learn more at thecentreoflove.org.)
Since its humble beginnings in a mud building with no water — located in the slums of Kibera where about 1 million call home — the nonprofit organization has grown under its four pillars of service: including water, sanitation, and hygiene (all in partnership with Rotary International).
They’ve built four water sanitation and hygiene locations, eradicating illness caused by contaminated water and poor hygiene practices. Because of their efforts, more than 10,000 people now have access to clean and safe water for their homes, schools, and churches and more than 3,000 people have access to clean toilets. TCOLF and their partners provide food
and nutrition to approximately 400-600 children every weekend and on school holidays, mentorship programs, and a safe place to learn and play.
Another one of their pillars is women’s empowerment and gender-based violence. “Over 40 percent of women who live in slums believe abuse is just part of marriage,” Henning said.
Additionally, TCOLF is focused on vocational learning to tackle the over 50% unemployment in the slums among women and youth. Currently, electrical training and tailoring programs are offered, and soon they are expanding to plumbing and maintenance courses.
They are also in the process of building their first primary school, making the dreams of fellow alumna Martha Hargura Semat B’12 a reality by providing critical education to the underserved in her Maasai village.
Henning returns to Kenya every couple of years for a month. She loves to see the faces of her Lasallian family, and the children entrusted into their care.
“This year, TCOLF is welcoming back 20 students from Mullen High School, a Lasallian high school from Denver, Colo. At the end of July, a trip made up of Rotary friends and family is planned. And, a TCOLF friends and family service trip immediately follows, including Brother Larry Schatz, FSC, and Brother Augustine “Gus” Nicoletti, FSC. Alumni and friends from the U.S. and Kenya frequently serve together, and visitors are always welcome. Karibu Kenya!
“Like John Baptist de La Salle said, ‘God led me from one commitment to another, in a way that I did not foresee in the beginning,’ I feel very called by that phrase. It’s a lot, but my co-founders are smart, dedicated, and even more compassionate. We’re a 501(c)3 organization in the United States, and an NGO (non-governmental organization) in Kenya, which is huge, and our U.S. board members have added so many talents and contributions. When I question where the resources are going to come from, I pray to Saint John Baptist de La Salle, and I believe he has stood by me every step of the
way, and he answers my prayers. I always think about how he didn’t give up.”
Henning calls Mumo and Hulula her guides, her mentors, and her brothers.
“Patrice is a connector; she is a force to reckon with when it comes to sharing love, touching hearts, and transforming lives,” Mumo said. “Through her we have been able to make friends with hundreds of people. She lives her best and does all she can to help others, thus making the world a better place.”
“Some stories are not written, they are lived. And for the three of us — Patrice, Jeremiah, and I — it was not coincidence that brought us together, but calling,” Hulula added. “We can say it was destiny. Three kindred spirits, each shaped by Lasallian values at different times, in different places, and along different paths, found themselves united in purpose: to serve.
“From conversations that began in 2017 ... the vision for The Centre of Love was born. The Centre of Love is not just a physical space, it is a transformation. A movement. A response to the emerging needs of a world hungry for deeper connection, meaningful service, and enduring Love.
“Through The Centre of Love, we walk alongside the forgotten, give voice to the unheard, and turn strangers into family. It has become a sanctuary, where differences fade, dignity is restored, and hope finds a home. In all we do, the heartbeat of Saint Mary’s still echoes within us, reminding us not only where we came from, but more importantly, who we are called to be.
Today, the Centre of Love stands as more than just a monument to service. It is a living, breathing testament to friendship, faith, and the unstoppable power of a shared dream.”
Hulula calls Henning a quiet force with a spiritual love for Kenya. “Everything she touches
is infused with the Lasallian ethos: faith, service, and community,” he said.
Being part of a military family growing up, Henning said service was valued far more than worldly possessions. At Saint Mary’s, she further learned the meaning of service as she came to treasure what being Lasallian was all about, eventually earning a master’s in Lasallian Leadership and cherishing times she’s spent in community with the De La Salle Christian Brothers.
“I think my mom said it best when she said, ‘You know, Patrice, what I never realized was that Saint Mary’s was much more than an education. It was lifelong, like family and community.’ ”
When Henning was a young business and public administration major starting out on her career, she worked in development for the United Way, choosing a path of helping people. When she shifted her career to become a financial advisor, first with Piper Jaffray and, since 1996, with Praxis Wealth Management of Raymond James, the goal was the same. With her philanthropic background, she’s able to help people not only plan for the future, she can help them create lasting and meaningful legacies.
Henning additionally currently serves on the WorldDenver board and co-chairs one of the largest celebrations of International Women’s Day in the country. She’s an active member of Rotary Club of Evergreen, Colo., and its International Service Committee. And, on travels to Warsaw, Poland, in 2022, she also had the chance to volunteer with World Central Kitchen.
“Praxis means creating behaviors that align with your beliefs,” she said. “It’s important to me, whether it has to do with what I do for a living or what I do from my heart — your life is not separate from what you do for a career or what you do for others.”
The three cofounders of The Centre Of Love, Patrice Henning B’84, M’21, Jeremiah Mumo B’12, and Anthony Hulula B’06.
Patrice Henning B’84, M’21 returns to Kenya every couple of years for a month to serve.
Sue Hines M’01, D’07, vice president for academic affairs for Minneapolis/ Rochester/ Online, has been focused on faculty development throughout her career.
Focused on faculty development
Hines co-authors book about program evaluation
Saint Mary’s vice president Sue Hines M’01, D’07 will tell you that life isn’t a straight path, and careers sometimes have starts, stops, and some dizzying curves.
Sometimes it’s the detour that ends up being the destination.
Prior to coming to Saint Mary’s, Dr. Hines earned her bachelor’s degree as a non-traditional student at age 39.
Now serving as vice president for academic affairs for Minneapolis/Rochester/Online, Dr. Hines once walked in the shoes of her bachelor completion students — and those who would like to finish their degrees but are hesitating to apply. She’s quick to counsel students not to hesitate to get that degree.
“I would ask a student, ‘What is it that you want to do in life and what is getting in your way?
And if it’s a degree, that’s an easy obstacle to remove. How can we get you there?’, ” she said.
Dr. Hines’ career path started with becoming a veterinary technician. Later she was accepted into veterinary school, with a goal of wanting to teach veterinary medicine at the University of Minnesota. At the time, she had left the field and was teaching veterinary technology at Argosy University, so she asked herself if she wanted to spend $80,000 to do the same thing at a different place, and the answer was, “No.”
Instead, she chose to get her graduate degree at Saint Mary’s (earning both a Master’s in Education in 2001 and an Ed.D. in Leadership in 2007). Her career at Saint Mary’s began when she left her teaching position to assist Brother Louis DeThomasis, FSC, president emeritus, write his book, “Doing Right in a Shrinking World.”
Next, she was asked to take a position at Saint Mary’s to do program development and faculty development. Altogether, she’s worked at Saint Mary’s now for 20 years in a number of roles.
It was at Saint Mary’s that she learned about the Twelve Virtues of a Good Teacher as listed by Saint John Baptist de La Salle, the patron saint of teachers and the Founder of the De La Salle Christian Brothers. “I discovered that those virtues reflected what I tried to embody every day as a teacher. Of course you can’t live them all perfectly, but I tried. The virtues spoke to me and were one of the main reasons why I stayed at Saint Mary’s. I felt I was meant to be here — it was serendipitous. I’ve held those virtues close to my heart and have worked to help other faculty learn them and grow as educators.”
Dr. Hines said her focus on faculty development started during her bachelor’s completion program and continued throughout her academic career, tying all her degrees together. “People are often hired to teach in higher education without any background in teaching,” she said. “That’s a problem. I wanted to be a faculty developer to have the opportunity to help college faculty learn how to teach.”
It starts, she said, by helping faculty understand they’re creating learning experiences, not lessons or teaching plans. “You are creating learning experiences with an effort to see through the students’ eyes. That’s what I would help faculty do,” she said. “I would ask questions about what it’s like to be a student in a class. It’s about studentsightedness. I helped faculty be more studentsighted to find the areas they’re doing well and areas they could improve when designing a learning experience for their students. For example, we would take a syllabus and code it with a smiley face, a neutral face, or a sad face, based on the student engagement they were seeing and then make changes based on their discoveries. All teachers are good one way or another, yet all teachers can grow.”
Other roles Dr. Hines has held at Saint Mary’s include interim director for curriculum and instruction and director for the Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching. She was a professor in the Doctor of Education in Leadership program for several years and has also served as a program director for the program.
Joining together with another Ed.D. graduate, Dr. Catherine Ford (one of her former students and a course-contracted Ed.D. Saint Mary’s faculty member), Dr. Hines co-authored a book, published in January titled “Designing and Implementing Program Evaluation for Teaching and Learning Centers.”
The book draws on 10 years of Dr. Hines’ in-depth research. She did her dissertation on how faculty development centers evaluate their faculty development and narrowed her focus on the state of Minnesota. She discovered that centers were small and understaffed, so she widened her focus nationally and repeated her study to find that only three of 33 centers were doing program evaluation relatively well.
“It was a significant need, so I kept studying and publishing, and EDUCAUSE approached me and said, ‘You should do a webinar on it, but we want an evaluation model.’ So I created one and presented it, but quickly realized it needed to be validated. I conducted a three-year validation study with 10 universities across North America and found the model to be both applicable and feasible in a variety of faculty development centers. I published the model in an article, but then recognized that, for it to gain broader visibility and become more user-friendly, it needed to be a book. I started the book three times and failed twice. Still, I was convinced it was needed in the faculty development community. Partnering with Dr. Ford was the key to finally getting it done,” she said.
As Dr. Hines reflects on her many years of teaching in Saint Mary’s Ed.D. program, she shares how she often describes the experience to her students as “academic birth.” She explains, “The academic gestation will be about four or five years, during which time I’ll accompany you on your academic journey. If I’m advising you on your dissertation, we’ll be even more connected and eventually cross the academic finish line together. It’s a long gestation, but when your commencement comes, it’s such a joy to watch you cross the stage. It’s just like giving birth. I have two children — nothing compares to that, absolutely nothing — but I’ve given academic birth 45 times, and as a professor, it’s the best feeling in the world.”
I helped faculty be more studentsighted to find the areas they’re doing well and areas they could improve when designing a learning experience for their students. … All teachers are good one way or another, yet all teachers can grow.
Sue Hines M’01, D’07
Catholic Educator Promise
New initiative offers free tuition to children of those employed by Catholic Schools
Saint Mary’s is doing something we believe no other Catholic University is doing — offering the Catholic Educator Promise, a new initiative supporting the families of those who dedicate their careers to Catholic education. Through the donorfunded initiative, Saint Mary’s will offer free tuition to the dependent children of faculty and staff members employed by K-12 Catholic schools across Minnesota, beginning spring 2025. Eligible students will receive a “last dollar” grant that covers the remaining tuition costs for four years of study after all other scholarships and grants. It’s our way of saying “thank you” to those who take a little less to give back where it’s important.
Here are the stories of three incoming new students who will be attending Saint Mary’s in fall through this new initiative.
The Blake family
Colin Blake had decided to attend Saint Mary’s before he ever heard about Saint Mary’s Catholic Educator Promise. Truthfully, he already had earned some impressive scholarships; his mom, Laurie, proudly and lovingly patted him on the back, calling him a bright student.
The fact that he’s eager to play on the Cardinal baseball team also played a considerable role in his decision making.
But THEN Laurie Blake heard about the life-changing initiative that supports those who dedicate their lives to the formation of young minds in Catholic education.
Laurie Blake, who has worked as a paraprofessional at Saint Vincent de Paul in Brooklyn Park, Minn., for the past seven years, said her family was “blown away.”
“It’s remarkable. It’s absolutely amazing. It didn’t seem real,” she said. “For these benefactors to truly believe and have such a strong faith in Catholic education to pass it on, I don’t know how we can say thank you, enough, truly.
“To make those sacrifices for those years, it’s tough, but it’s a decision that we as a family make, and I think we’d make it again, in our view.”
Laurie Blake primarily works in a kindergarten room with students of a wide range of skill levels. She also is one of two in charge of recess for the whole school, kindergarten through grade eight.
“We truly know every child’s name in the school,” she said. “We genuinely care about the students. We love them. We get to know them over the years. My kids had that with teachers and administrators who have truly wanted them to succeed, to thrive, and have supported them. They wouldn’t get that at other schools. There’s a reason we chose this, and the reason that we sacrifice like we do as families, for the kids.”
Colin Blake, currently a senior at TotinoGrace, a high school in Fridley, Minn., nods as his mother speaks. After attending Catholic High School, he says it was important to continue his college education at a Catholic university. “It means something to be at a school where faith is part of your day,” he said.
Colin Blake and his mother, Laurie Blake.
“Having that connection with our faith is a draw for me.”
Although he’s not sure what area he’ll major in for sure, he’s interested in data science and potentially pursuing a career in sports analytics, but he knows college is where he’ll figure out which major he should pursue.
For now, he’s most excited about having the opportunity to play baseball at the next level, starting a whole new life experience, and moving onto campus.
And, he’s thankful that the Catholic Educator Promise recognizes the work his mom does while giving him a helping hand with his educational goals.
“It’s definitely a big lift off of my shoulders for sure,” he said. “It’ll help me focus on my studies. I think it’s great what she does and how this will help me so much in my life.”
The DiPietro Family
Kelly (Pavlak) and Domenic DiPietro, both 1999 alumni of Saint Mary’s, recently finished paying off their student loans.
They say they are grateful that, because of the Catholic Educator Promise at Saint Mary’s, their daughter Giana — who will be starting school at Saint Mary’s this fall — won’t ever have to worry about long-term student loans.
Giana DiPietro is a senior at Saint Agnes School in Saint Paul, where her mother has served as the food service director for the past 10 years.
Kelly DiPietro had been working part time and took a job at Saint Agnes to both make a little extra money but also to see her kids every day and be on their same schedule.
It’s always been important to Kelly DiPietro that her children attend Catholic schools. “I like how Saint Mary’s is welcoming to anyone, regardless of faith background, and I sense that there are so many things to do on campus to access your Catholic faith,” she said. “That’s huge for kids who are getting out on their own. They could easily say they don’t have to or want to participate in faith-related things. That support system is great. It allows them to make their adult decisions while surrounding them with everything they need for a faith-based college experience.”
She and her husband plan to live vicariously through their daughter. “It’s nostalgic,” she said. “We had our experiences (at Saint Mary’s), and it’ll be fun to see what things are the same, like what professors are still there …. And then experience new things through her eyes too.”
Visibly outgoing and friendly, Giana DiPietro is excited to meet lots of new people, get involved on campus, and start down her career path. After serving as a teacher’s aide, she’s already fallen in love with watching the light bulb go off in students’ heads when they learn, and she would like to either be a Saint Mary’s Catholic education major, or become an elementary educator major with a minor in Spanish. Service and getting involved with Campus Ministry are also on her list.
“Throughout the college decision process, I knew I wanted to find a strong community where people wouldn’t judge you for being Catholic, and I was excited about Saint Mary’s faith community,” she said.
When Kelly DiPietro told her daughter about the Catholic Educator Promise, Giana DiPietro said it took a while to sink in. “It finally hit me that this is a crazy opportunity,” she said. “The fact that you are helping and repaying people who give to Catholic schools means a ton. This is a life-changing opportunity that will mean a difference to me years past college.”
Her mother agrees. “Being recognized as a Catholic school employee, we don’t get paid as much as public school employees; we do the same amount of work and have the same commitment but on a considerably different pay scale,” she said. “I saw Father Burns (Saint
Giana DiPietro and her mother, Kelly (Pavlak) DiPietro B’99.
Mary’s president) at a Saint Agnes event, and I couldn’t thank him enough. This is going to mean a lot to Giana and if our youngest decides to go there too. It’s really paying it forward.”
The Reeves Family
Rob Reeves admits that, at first, he thought Saint Mary’s Catholic Educator Promise seemed too good to be true.
His daughter, Addison, a senior at in Vadnais Heights, Minn., had just toured another college in Winona, Minn., but hadn’t considered Saint Mary’s despite urging from her high school counselors. She had been afraid, her dad said, that its tuition costs — as a private Catholic university — would be too high, and she dismissed the university entirely, even though she had fallen in love with the river town.
About one week later, Rob Reeves, who works as the assistant athletic director and head football coach at Hill Murray in Maplewood, Minn., learned of Saint Mary’s new initiative, which supports the families of those who dedicate their careers to Catholic education — people like him.
“I expressed it to our president that this seemed almost too good to be true,” he said. “I came home and was telling Addison about it, and by that evening, she had already called and set up an appointment to go visit the campus. She was extremely excited. So that made me feel really happy, because I could see the excitement in her face and eyes that this was something she truly wanted, and now we would be able to afford it.”
Now officially enrolled, Addison Reeves is counting down the months before she moves to Saint Mary’s Winona Campus, where she plans to study nursing and hopes to continue playing hockey.
After nannying for the past year, she has felt a calling to help people and she’s eager to find out which of the many areas of nursing is the best fit.
“I’m excited to meet new people, get myself out there, and start finding out where I see myself in the future, and I hope college can help guide me,” Addison Reeves said.
Knowing that, with the Catholic Educator Promise, she can focus on her education
and not have to worry about loans, she said, means a lot. And she glances, knowingly and appreciatively, at her dad.
Rob Reeves had spent 23 years coaching college football at the University of Minnesota and Eastern Michigan University, and he and his family moved around as a result. Five years ago, he said he decided, “it was kind of time for me to quit chasing my dreams of coaching college football and let these guys grow up in Minnesota.” He connected with the athletic director at Hill Murray, and has enjoyed his career shift.
Especially after working at a Catholic high school, he said the fact that his daughter will be attending a Catholic university is important. “I think it’s going to be awesome for full development, not just educationally but spiritually,” he said.
For Rob Reeves, making the career transition, even though it meant a pay cut, was worth it. “I was able to coach my two boys at Hill Murray. I was able to go to all their hockey games and just be a dad, which I wasn’t really, truly able to do when I was gone coaching and on the road and recruiting. So, you know, you don’t make a ton of money coaching and working at a Catholic school, but at the same time, the quality of life that we’ve been able to have for the last five years has been amazing, and it’s been what I needed as a father. It’s all just falling into place. This is an amazing blessing financially for us. We are extremely grateful.”
Learn more at smumn.edu/admission/ undergraduate/undergraduatescholarships.
Addison Reeves and her father, Rob Reeves.
Jack and Mary Ann (Wera) CST’64 Remick
We aren’t alums, but we have come to really love and appreciate Saint Mary’s and the people who are there, and they’ve allowed us to help them dream.
~ Jack and Mary Ann (Wera) CST’64 Remick
Jeanne Minnerath, Ph.D.
Title: Associate professor in biology
How many years have you worked at Saint Mary’s? 28 years; I started at Saint Mary’s in 1997. I came to Saint Mary’s immediately after finishing graduate school. I stayed for all of these years because Saint Mary’s seemed to be a good fit for me. I loved the sense of community that permeated the campus.
What do you enjoy/have you enjoyed most about teaching? What I enjoyed most were the relationships I developed with the students — especially the interactions we had outside the classroom. I dedicated myself to Saint Mary’s. I served as a faculty mentor on four or more S.O.U.L. trips; I was a very active adviser for the Biology Club for many years, and this included taking the students camping at least twice each year. (My own kids still talk about these camping trips!) I had students come to my house for many appetizer parties, potlucks, and pumpkin carving parties.
How do you hope you are remembered/what will you most be remembered for? I hope I am remembered as a very caring but snarky professor who was dedicated to her students
and was a good professor. I went into teaching because of a high school science teacher I had. She was a very sarcastic and snarky teacher. Most students hated her but I loved her because she treated us with tough love, and I believe we all became better people because of it. It also was very clear that she cared about all of us as people. This is how I tried to treat and teach my students! Unfortunately, she passed away before I ever expressed my appreciation for her. This still makes me sad.
What are you most proud of from your career?
I think I embraced what it means to be Lasallian. My boys attended a small Catholic university, and thought they would have the chance to develop relationships with professors like I had with my students. That didn’t happen for them, and that is when they realized Saint Mary’s was special and
Dr. Jeanne Minnerath has taught biology for 28 years.
that their mom was a special type of professor. I probably gave too much of myself to Saint Mary’s, but Saint Mary’s was also good to me! I visited a Christian Brother-run orphanage in India and went to help the poor in Mexico through S.O.U.L. trips. I went to visit Lasallian universities in the Philippines twice! I visited Kenya because of Saint Mary’s (and even climbed Mount Kilimanjaro when I was there). I spent three weeks learning about being Lasallian in Rome through a mission development opportunity, and I love to travel, so these were all wonderful opportunities for me! And I really appreciated them!
But my greatest accomplishment at Saint was probably my teaching ability and the relationships I developed with my students.
What are your retirement plans? I am spending time with my family and friends during my retirement and am doing as much traveling as possible! I bought myself a small camper for my adventures and spent some time in spring visiting the national parks in Utah.
What will you miss the most? I will miss the students and my wonderful colleagues! I loved the students; they were such kind and caring individuals. I appreciated the relationships I developed with them! I loved the colleagues I had over the years; they are/were wonderful people. I also appreciated the relationships I developed with some of the Christian Brothers — especially Brother John (Grover, FSC), Brother Frank (Carr, FSC), Brother Arnold (McMullen, FSC), and Brother Finbar (McMullen, FSC).
I wouldn’t have retired except for my diagnosis of terminal brain cancer! I retired in a very quick manner because I had to have a biopsy in the fall because the cancer had grown back and I didn’t want to disrupt my students routines due to health issues. While having cancer sucks, it was nice to hear from a number of my former students around the time of the benefit. Thanks to Nikki Lemmer for organizing that! It was interesting because most students let me know that they appreciated all of the interactions we had outside the classroom, how they appreciated the high standards I set for them, and how great they felt when I finally called them out on things. They said that they knew I cared about them as individuals, and that meant a lot to me!
Debra Martin, Ph.D.
Title: Professor of biology
How many years have you worked at Saint Mary’s? I have worked at Saint Mary’s for 32 years. I started in a temporary one-year position but I really enjoyed Saint Mary’s, my colleagues in the Biology and Chemistry Department, and they were satisfied with my work ethic. I was given the invitation to stay with a tenure track position.
What do you enjoy/have you enjoyed most about teaching? I really enjoy teaching and sharing my passion and knowledge with students. The moment that a student has that “Ah-ha” moment is precious. A big part of my teaching has also been to encourage students to ask questions and figure out how to find the answers — the skills to be a lifelong learner.
How do you hope you are remembered/what will you most be remembered for? Great question … I hope I am remembered as a person who had a passion for science and a desire to share that passion.
What are you most proud of from your career? Seeing my students succeed. Whether it is doing well on an exam (I found out a former student was so proud of one of their biochemistry exams that they kept it on their refrigerator for years after they graduated from Saint Mary’s), presenting a poster at a regional or national meeting (I had a student present at a national meeting and became so excited about their project that they performed another experiment after they graduated.), or getting into a professional school. Having them contact me years later and let me know that I was important in their success is like the cherry on top of the ice cream sundae.
What are your retirement plans? To travel and have adventures with my husband and friends. My husband and I are also working with the Winona Middle School to start a science club for fifth- and sixth-graders.
What will you miss the most? I will miss many things. I will miss working with students on research projects. I will miss interacting with my colleagues on improving the curriculum. I will miss trying out new, innovative teaching methods.
Jack McClure, Ph.D.
Title: Dean of the School of Education
How many years have you worked at Saint Mary’s? 18 and a half years
What do you enjoy/have you enjoyed most about teaching? I most enjoyed working with students and challenging their thinking. Our students have made enormous journeys to get to us, and helping them take one more formal step toward success has been great. I enjoyed trying to figure out better ways to get something across — in the classroom, online, and as a supervisor. I enjoyed watching students develop and grow in what they do and who they are.
How do you hope you are remembered/what will you most be remembered for?
I don’t need to be remembered, but I guess I would like to be remembered as someone who focused on responsiveness — collaborating and improving what we do and how we do it. As a School of Education, we have sent a remarkable number of teachers and leaders into the world, and those people are having a big impact. I would like that to be remembered.
What are you most proud of from your career?
I am incredibly proud of having been named a Distinguished Lasallian Educator. In a network and school full of dedicated teachers, to be called out in that way was a big surprise. To have worked within that network, including
More Retirees
national and international contacts and activities, was really an honor. I also enjoyed working on projects that involved the whole university. I enjoyed being with faculty as a colleague, program director and dean. I believe we effectively managed rigor, relevance, relationships, and dollars and found some joy in the work along the way.
What are your retirement plans? My plans include spending more time with grandchildren, some fishing, some golf, some board work, Spanish, yoga (trying anyway) and continuing to learn. I want to leave room to see what else the universe might have in store for me.
What will you miss the most? I will miss the interactions with many dedicated professionals, faculty, students, and administration. Maybe the correct answer is “the community.” I will miss making things work together — yes, even the challenges. Perhaps not challenges on top of issues on top of difficulties. I can probably do without that.
• Barb Schmidtknecht, associate director of administrative support services
• Rebecca Warnock, coordinator, Graduate School of Education
• Kenneth Lange, tradesperson
• Ken Kersting, tradesperson
• Diane Kruger, custodian
Valerie Edwards Robeson
Job titles: Most recently Geographic Information Systems technician. Also, associate professor, social sciences; human services program coordinator; interim associate dean, School of Behavioral and Social Sciences; and department chair, psychology and social sciences
How many years have you worked at Saint Mary’s? 30 years
What do you enjoy/have you enjoyed most about teaching? Lasallian teaching has provided me with an opportunity to follow my own curiosity about all the ways the sacred shows up in the world. Lasallian teaching is rooted in community, so together and by association, we invite learners and other new members to discover and cherish the transcendent in every person and academic discipline. The invitation spans every space and activity — living, dining, worship, recreational or competitive sport, study and research, artistic or scholarly creativity. In teaching I enjoyed most those moments when a learner or colleague experienced a deep shift from invited to belonging.
How do you hope you are remembered/what will you most be remembered for? I try to abide in a deep conviction that we are here — in this life, in this world, in each moment — to be in relationship with each other, with all who have come before and those who will come after. I hope learners and colleagues recall the spoken and unspoken messages that they belonged, that they mattered, just for who they are, and that nothing they might do or fail to do could change that. I hope also that they can bring a spirit of generosity, or at least charity, when recalling times my real self fell short of my aspiration.
What are you most proud of from your career? Together, we truly have awakened, nurtured, and empowered learners to embrace and direct their talents toward the common good. Most of my work was with learners in the human services program and social sciences broadly, but like most faculty, I also had the opportunity to support learners across all majors in their general education courses. Across the spectrum, alumni live, serve, and lead with servant hearts in their families, workplaces, and communities. Especially in human services and social sciences, alumni lean into challenges and opportunities
in public policy, behavioral and occupational health, nonprofit management, education, and spiritual community. They initiate and navigate change with courage. They humbly and competently gather evidence to inform their actions. They hold space for diverse views and experiences. They strive to live authentically, pursue advanced degrees and professional credentials, change careers, and grow through their own suffering when life’s hurts hit close to home. They live with curiosity and love generously. It has been a privilege to walk a few steps with each of them under Saint Mary’s umbrella.
Within Saint Mary’s, in 2007, I participated with Drs. Richard Tristano (Winona) and Roxanne Eubank (Minneapolis) in the inaugural International Lasallian University Leadership Program in Rome. Inspired by our experience, we envisioned an open-access, peer-reviewed academic journal as a means to animate and nourish a network of Lasallian scholars across disciplines and geographic borders. With the leadership of Brother William Mann, FSC, and Sister Judith Schaefer, OP, we founded AXIS: Journal of Lasallian Higher Education (2009).
What are your retirement plans?
This summer I will spend time with family, play in the dirt, and finish a couple of certifications. In autumn I will transition to new work in the health and helping professions. Folks can still find me on LinkedIn.
What will you miss the most? All of the learners I’ve worked for, and many colleagues, provide models of how to move on from Saint Mary’s. All seem to involve carrying forward what we cherish most. Whatever our reasons for leaving, and whatever our next steps, the way forward reverberates in the final verse of our Alma Mater, penned by Dr. Patrick O’Shea: Hail, Saint Mary’s, shining beacon, Of La Salle’s community, Send us out forever teaching, Love and faith and unity. Ave, Ave, Ave, Maria.
A rendition of the new Hall of Fame Room with the entrance to the David R. Thies B’59 Arena, featuring a ticket stand and concessions area.
Saint
Mary’s University announces $5.5 million gift commitment — including largest gift ($2.625 million) to athletics in history
University arena to be named in honor of former student-athlete, major league baseball pitcher David Thies B’59
Saint Mary’s announced at its annual Cardinal Excellence Fund dinner March 22 that Hall of Fame two-sport inductee David Thies B’59 and his wife Marlys of Plymouth, Minn., have committed $5.5 million to the university to largely support Cardinal athletics and scholarships. This gift includes a $2.5 million cash contribution and a $3 million estate gift.
The largest portion of the gift ($2.625 million) is designated for a complete remodel of the Winona Campus gymnasium, which will now be called the David R. Thies B’59 Arena. This is the largest gift in the history of athletics. Construction began May 5 on the following enhancements:
• New bleachers
• A refurbished floor
• A concessions and ticket booth in the Hall of Fame room
• An air handler and chiller for air conditioning
• Saint Mary’s branding
• VIP bleacher and floor seating for 100
Another $1 million is unrestricted, and $1.875 million will be directed to two scholarships in honor of two individuals who served Saint Mary’s during David Thies’ time as an undergraduate: Brother I. Basil Rothweiler, FSC B’38, former president from 1956-1963; and Ken Wiltgen, former longtime basketball coach.
“I accepted an invitation of some Brother at DeLaSalle High School to make a trip down (to Winona) with some good friends, and I was amazed at both Coach Wiltgen and Coach Max
Molock (baseball coach) who really tried to recruit me, and I felt like it was a warm place and the right place for me,” David Thies said. “I just felt a comfort at Saint Mary’s, and I have ever since. I am very pleased about the arena. I think it’s a great honor, but more than that, it’s about giving back some of the things that they gave to me.”
Although Thies once played both basketball and baseball at Saint Mary’s, he pursued his true love of baseball after graduation, signing on with minor league baseball and pitching for five years, including a short stint in the Major League playing for the Kansas City A’s.
After retiring from baseball, he co-founded Thies and Talle Enterprises, which began by financing and developing apartment properties. The business continues to be a leading property management company in five Midwestern States.
Thies’ relationship with Saint Mary’s continued long after graduation. He’s generously supported several initiatives, and served as a trustee for 20 years, leading several capital campaigns. As a businessman and a fundraiser, he knows the importance of giving back. “The most important thing is people have to learn to become a giver. It stays with you the rest of your life,” he said. “I just feel it’s just been a miracle for me, and I’m just happy to be able to do it. Once a person becomes a giver, they begin to understand you get more from the giving than you give.”
“David Thies is more than an accomplished athlete — he is a true friend and an inspiration to all who know him,” said Father James P. Burns,
Benefactors
David B’59 and Marlys Thies
IVD, Ph.D., president of Saint Mary’s University. “His achievements on the field and court as a student-athlete were remarkable, and his success beyond graduation set a standard of excellence that every student-athlete aspires to. But what truly sets Dave apart is his leadership, business acumen, unwavering generosity, and, most importantly, his devotion to his Catholic faith and the Christian Brothers who helped shape him. His and Marlys’ commitment to Saint Mary’s has left a legacy that will be felt for generations. Every time we step into the David R. Thies B’59 Arena, we will be reminded not only of his extraordinary contributions but also of the faith, friendship, and dedication that make him such a special part of the Saint Mary’s community. We are forever grateful.”
Brian Sisson, Saint Mary’s athletic director, echoes this sentiment. “This generous gift will mean so much to our student-athletes
as it will change the face of one of our major competitive arenas, but it will also mean a great deal to all students and guests of this university,” he said. “Our gymnasium is a focal point for this university, bringing people together in celebration, as well as competition. And, as we always refer to our athletes as student-athletes, the fact that they have paired the athletics gift with a gift for scholarships is particularly meaningful. On behalf of university athletics, I’d just like to say how thankful we are to David and Marlys Thies and their family.”
I am very pleased about the arena. I think it’s a great honor, but more than that, it’s about giving back some of the things that they gave to me.
David Thies B’59
Honored during Founders’ Day on March 18, 2025 were:
James Bedtke, Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award (back, center); Leah Gordon, DNP, Brother Louis DeThomas, FSC Award (front, left); Debra Martin, Ph.D., Brother H. Charles Severin FSC Award (front, right); and the Outstanding Male and Female Seniors, Joel Tranel and Maggie Newhouse.
Five honored at Founders’ Day
In celebration of its heritage, Saint Mary’s presented awards to two faculty members, one staff member, and two outstanding seniors at its annual Founders’ Day celebration March 18 on the Winona Campus.
James Bedtke, vice president for facilities, received the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award. Presented each year, the award recognizes a member of the faculty, staff, or administration who exemplifies the ideals of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, expressed in the Twelve Virtues of a Good Teacher. During Bedtke’s decades of service to Saint Mary’s, he has held many positions, including faculty member, director of summer programming, school dean, associate vice president for academic affairs at the College, vice president of Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs (SGPP), and now vice president of university facilities for the past 15 years. While he ensures campus buildings aren’t falling down or leaking, Bedtke is ever mindful that Saint Mary’s is about people – talented and committed individuals serving the university, and especially the students. He has been a mentor to students he taught and advised and to employees he hired and supervised. He exemplifies the ideals of Saint John Baptist de La Salle as expressed in the Twelve Virtues of a Good Teacher, especially generosity, reserve, and humility.
Leah Gordon, DNP, program director, doctor of nursing practice nurse anesthesiology, received the Brother Louis DeThomasis, FSC
Award. Presented every two years, the award recognizes a full-time SGPP staff or faculty member who demonstrates excellence, innovation, and ethics in their work and builds community by serving as a model of the Lasallian Catholic spirit. Dr. Gordon’s indefatigable spirit helped to propel DNP800 — a pre-program chemistry and professional development course for nurses intending to enter nurse anesthesiology programs — to become an incredibly successful course. She juggles her multiple roles as DNP program director while giving 100% to participating in the DNP800 course, and she loves interacting with students, even those we only ever meet online. Her work ethic, ambition, and genuine collegiality are inspirational.
Debra Martin, Ph.D., professor of biology, received the Brother H. Charles Severin, FSC Award. Presented every two years, the award recognizes tenured undergraduate faculty members who carry forward Brother Charles’ legacy of sustained excellence and creativity in teaching. Since Dr. Martin’s arrival at Saint Mary’s in 1993, she has demonstrated sustained excellence in teaching evident in her commitment to student learning. She is an outstanding teacher who integrates content expertise with fun, active in-class learning approaches. She has remained current in her field by attending academic conferences and providing leadership within the department for student research. Dr. Martin has supported student-led research projects every academic year and summer since she arrived. A mentor to her department colleagues and a go-to for best practices in her field, Dr. Martin has been a fantastic contributor to faculty outside of her department and to the university.
The university also announced its Outstanding Male and Female Seniors during the celebration. Outstanding Seniors have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership, service to colleagues and the university community, as well as genuine concern for the needs of others. This year, the honor went to Joel Tranel of Cuba City, Wis., and Maggie Newhouse of Owatonna, Minn. The eight other students nominated for Outstanding Senior included Caden Boyer, Wesley Larson, Peter Quinn, Anthony Joel “AJ” Ruskowski, Allison Ciero, Theresa DeGross, Nina Langley, and Allison Urlaub.
An arts update
Saint Mary’s remains committed to fostering an environment of student art expression and appreciation. During the initial Co-Curricular Arts Planning Task Force Engagement Sessions with staff, faculty, students, and community members, participants identified specific aspects of the arts that they advocated continue as the arts transitioned from an educational major to an extracurricular model. Some of those identified events or programs were choir, band (or ensembles), music performances, theatre performances, and art gallery programming. These decisions helped shape the program moving forward.
When the Arts Co-Curricular program was established in 2023, the first year focused on building a staffing structure that could support the program planning of the future while also continuing programming that is essential to the vibrancy of the arts of Saint Mary’s past. As the second year of the Arts Co-Curricular program wraps, there are some important updates to share.
Music programming has continued with both choir and an instrumental ensemble under the direction of a director of music programming. In addition, there has been a rise in string players which has created the opportunity for students to perform at university-hosted events. The goal is that as these numbers continue to increase, an orchestra ensemble can be an added. The ensemble and choir continue to offer concerts each semester; in addition, they also perform as part of Founders’ Day, Lessons and Carols, and Commencement. The music variety shows of Blue Angel led by Per Musicam Amamus, Fireside by Sigma Alpha Iota, and the senior show of Gaslight — all student-led productions — proudly continue.
This past March, approximately 450 guests attended the musical “Glimpses of the Moon” over two performances. Planning is currently underway for a theatre production again next spring. The theatre has also hosted additional community programming such as the Frozen River Film Festival screenings, Sandbar Storytelling Festival, improv shows, Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts showcases, and the Lorie Line Christmas tour.
The art gallery continues to be scheduled throughout the academic year with multiple different exhibits.
Although the Arts Co-Curricular program has been a change, many of the honored traditions of the university remain, yet there are
opportunities to listen to the students about ways they would like to grow and change. All of these opportunities are open to all; and many students who were not previously a part of the arts are now participating. A thriving arts and culture environment is still important on this campus.
Exciting opportunities coming this fall include:
The Lord Chamberlain’s Men, the premier all-male touring Shakespeare company of the UK, is holding their first American tour, and the closing show will be at Page Theatre on Tuesday, Nov. 4. In addition to the show, two workshops will be held on Monday, Nov. 3 and a pre-show talk prior to the Nov. 4 show.
The fall music concert will be taking place at the Rochester Campus, in conjunction with Advancement and an alumni event on Saturday, Oct. 25.
Lessons and Carols is scheduled at Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels on Wednesday, Dec. 3.
Saint Mary’s will again host the Minnesota Beethoven Festival this summer.
Blue Angel is scheduled at Page Theatre on Friday, Oct. 31, and Saturday, Nov. 1.
Other events coming up will be the Sandbar Storytelling Festival Oct. 10-12, Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts in November, and a Lorie Line performance on Tuesday, Dec. 2.
Multiple other arts events are currently being scheduled for the year.
Gaslight, a longstanding tradition at
Saint Mary’s, continues to flourish on campus.
Arthur C. Brooks, New York Times bestselling author, renowned expert on human happiness, Harvard professor, columnist at The Atlantic, and soughtafter speaker, spoke to an audience of 275 at the Hendrickson Forum.
Hendrickson Forum welcomes Arthur C. Brooks
For 18 years, Saint Mary’s Hendrickson Forum has brought together both internal and external communities to examine a current issue that can only be better resolved or understood through the practice of ethical service and leadership.
And this year, on April 4, the audience tackled the timely and much-needed topic of “Healing Our Social Divide: Finding Happiness in Our Culture of Contempt.” This year’s keynote speaker, Arthur C. Brooks, Ph.D. — New York Times bestselling author, renowned expert on human happiness, Harvard professor, columnist at The Atlantic, and sought-after speaker — asked an audience of 275 to immediately become agents in bringing people together.
That’s no easy task when Brooks said a Reuters Ipsos Poll revealed 1 in 6 people in the U.S. is not talking to family members or close friends, stemming from the 2016 election. He added, 65 percent of democrats and 60 percent of republicans say the biggest problem facing our country is people in the other party.
Yet, he said, this “crisis” situation is an opportunity for social entrepreneurs. Brooks, as a behavioral scientist, is called to speak around the world on this topic and, he pointed out, business is good.
He pointed to three direct causes of this current happiness storm:
• The onset of portable screens and social media in 2008 and 2009
• The coronavirus in 2020 and 2021 and the clinical depression that continues
• The polarization in this country.
He left everyone with three pieces of homework.
1. Stand up to the man. He explained someone is productizing your fear and your negative emotion, likely someone on your side. Start the healing by turning them off: newspapers, columnists, news channels, and social media feeds. “Curate your information to turn off the outrage mongers,” he said.
2. Go looking for contempt as an opportunity. Listen to those with whom you disagree. Lead with love and not contempt. To combat this current “culture of contempt” as Brooks coined it, he gave this piece of advice: “Become the person you want to be by acting like the person you want to be. That’s how we save America and that’s how America saves the world.” When tempted to eye roll, or respond with sarcasm, he instead encourages
us to respond with love (but not necessarily agreement). “Insulting them won’t persuade them. You know what will persuade them? Love,” he said.
3. Don’t do this by yourself. In a world of hatred and contempt, cling to the metaphysical power within you, with the power of the Lord and Mary the patroness of Saint Mary’s. Brooks defined the audience as missionaries for the world expressing contempt. Pointing to the exit doors, he said, “As you leave this lecture, and when I leave, we have an opportunity to lift people up and bring them together as long as we know that it is truly mission territory.”
This year’s recipient of the Hendrickson Medal for Ethical Leadership, Corie Barry, CEO of Best Buy Co., Inc., was honored (in absentia) for serving as an inspirational example of a female executive leading by listening and by serving her employees as well as the communities Best Buy serves.
In addition to overseeing Best Buy Co., Inc., the world’s largest specialty consumer electronics retailer, with over 80,000 employees in North America and more than $40 billion in annual revenue in fiscal year 2025, Barry also serves on the company’s board of directors. Prior to becoming CEO in June 2019, she served in several other executive positions, playing
a critical role in developing and executing the company’s “Building the New Blue” growth strategy and related transformation.
Barry joined Best Buy in 1999 and has held a variety of financial and operational roles across the organization, both in the field and at the corporate office. Before joining Best Buy, Barry started her career as an auditor at Deloitte & Touche.
As one of only 52 women running Fortune 500 companies in the U.S., Barry takes pride in surrounding herself with people she can learn from and focuses every day on doing what she can to leave things better than she found them — including for her family, her community, and Best Buy.
In a recorded message she spoke on behalf of everyone at Best Buy saying, “I am constantly inspired by the work we do together and the real meaningful impact we have on the lives of people literally around the world. At Best Buy we believe in the power of listening and learning from all perspectives and in making decisions that are grounded in our purpose to enrich lives through technology. I’m proud to be part of a company that not only strives for success but is also working to create a positive, lasting impact on our employees, customers, and the communities we serve.”
I’m proud to be part of a company that not only strives for success but is also working to create a positive, lasting impact on our employees, customers, and the communities we serve.
Corie Barry, CEO of Best Buy, Co., Inc.
Mary Jacobs, associate dean of the Graduate School of Business and Technology and MBA program director at Saint Mary’s, led a Q&A with Dr. Brooks following his keynote.
David B’59 and Marlys Thies
The most important thing is people have to learn to become a giver. It stays with you the rest of your life. I just feel it’s just been a miracle for me, and I’m just happy to be able to do it. Once a person becomes a giver, they begin to understand you get more from the giving than you give.
~ David Thies B’59
Summer means a slew of Saint Mary’s activities
Summer is in full swing, bringing with it a season of warmth, reflection, and connection. Whether you’re enjoying sunny days, reconnecting with fellow alumni, or reminiscing about summers on campus, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the vibrant spirit of the Saint Mary’s community — and the impact you continue to make around the world.
Commencement kicked off the season, welcoming 155 undergraduate and 293 graduate students into our alumni family of more than 58,000. From congratulating the first-ever nursing graduates to launching the M.S. in Clinical Psychology which is the first with a Catholic faith integration, we’re always expanding our academic offerings. We’re proud of all our alumni. You can connect with all alumni at smumn.edu/alumni by selecting “Alumni Directory.”
In June, Reunion Weekend brought undergraduate classes ending in a five or a zero back to the Winona Campus. After the 2020 reunion cancellation, it was especially meaningful to welcome that group home. See page 39 for highlights and to meet the 2025 Alumni Award recipients — another group of inspiring individuals living out the Saint Mary’s
mission. Know someone deserving of recognition? Use the form on page 36 or visit the alumni website to nominate them.
Next Stop: Chicago! Save the date for Aug. 14 and connect with fellow alumni at Allium — Chicago’s newest rooftop venue, perched atop the headquarters of Blue Plate catering. Enjoy skyline views, great company, and a memorable evening, generously hosted by Jim Horan B’72, CEO of Blue Plate. We hope to see you there!
Looking ahead to fall, Lasallian Day of Service is Oct. 25. We’re aiming for 20 volunteer sites this year (up from 14), and we need site leads! Visit connect. smumn.edu/events/ldos, call 507-457-6647, or email alumni@smumn.edu to learn more.
A big thank you to our alumni volunteers, especially those on the Alumni Board, whose dedication makes so much of this possible. I’m thrilled to introduce our seven newest board members:
• Christine (Volk) Ellinghuysen B’15, M’20 (Storm Lake, Iowa)
• John Fitzgerald B’08 (Winfield, Ill.)
• Jack Hatton B’22 (Minneapolis, Minn.)
Director of Alumni and Benefactor Engagement
• Patrick Jacobsen B’05, M’16 (La Grange, Ill.)
• Lisa Petersen M’21 (Franklinton, N.C.)
• Erin Reese M’20 (Urbandale, Iowa)
• Maureen Simmons M’06 (Logan, N.M.)
• Susan (Leo) Vanderwalker B’79 (Chicago, Ill.)
Learn more about the Alumni Board and submit your own application on the alumni website: connect. smumn.edu/alumni/ alumni-board
As summer continues, I hope you find ways to stay connected — to each other, to Saint Mary’s, and to the values that brought us together. Thank you for being part of this incredible community. We can’t wait to see what’s next.
UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS
Aug. 14
Alumni Gathering, Allium, Chicago, Ill.
Oct. 25
Lasallian Day of Service and Fall Music Event, Rochester Campus
To see what’s coming up next, visit connect. smumn.edu/ events UPDATE YOUR INFO
Make sure we have your most recent contact information so you can stay on top of the latest news and events and share your updates with other alumni at connect. smumn.edu/ updatemyinfo
Tracy Heaser Senior
Help us honor alumni
Do you know a Saint Mary’s alumnus/a 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 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.
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 their consistent and continuous volunteer efforts, have given their personal time and energies to further the goals and objectives of Saint Mary’s University. They 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 to 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 student-athlete.
ALUMNI AWARD NOMINATION FORM (preliminary information)
I wish to nominate an individual for: (Please check type of award; photocopy to nominate in more than one category.) n Distinguished Alumnus/a n Sports Hall of Fame n Alumni Appreciation n Lasallian Service n 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
Does this person know he/she is being nominated?
Telephone (daytime) Telephone (home)
Email
To nominate a candidate for an award, complete this form and return. 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 or fill out the form online at connect.smumn.edu/alumni/alumni-recognition.
Alumni Events
Members of the Saint Mary’s Alumni Board and staff hosted a networking event at Little Thistle Brewery in Rochester, Minn., on Sept. 20, 2024, welcoming more than 20 current alumni and a few future ones.
Who ate the most pizza — alumni, or these guys? The men’s basketball team joined alumni at the post-game gathering in Chicago, Ill., in November 2024.
More than 35
26,
and friends
ALUMNI, SEND US YOUR NEWS
We want your personal and professional news items – photos, news clippings, etc., as well as tips about fellow alums who might make good feature story subjects. For submission guidelines and how to submit your news, go to connect. smumn.edu/alumni/ classnotes.
Saint Mary’s alumni
gathered in Elmhurst, Ill., before the men’s basketball game on Nov.
2024. Special thanks to alumni Mario Mollo B’94 and Lori (Nelson) Quinn B’80, M’24 for organizing this event.
UPDATE YOUR INFO
Make sure we have your most recent contact information so you can stay on top of the latest news and events and share your updates with other alumni at connect. smumn.edu/ updatemyinfo
One hundred years is fittingly called a “diamond” anniversary, and on April 19, 2025, Saint Mary’s celebrated 100 years of Cardinal baseball on the diamond with an alumni gathering, a collection of historic memorabilia, ballpark tours of the legendary Pudge’s Place, plenty of great food, and some reminiscing. More than 70 baseball alumni and their families came out to celebrate and watch the Cardinals sweep the Knights in a double-header.
INSET: Mark Wiltgen B’85, Todd Borndale
were just a
to celebrate
Dan
and Kevin
of the
B’85,
Raden B’85,
Murphy B’85
few
more than 70 baseball alumni who came to Winona on April 19, 2025
a century of baseball at Saint Mary’s.
Alumni Board president Peg (Stringham) McCoy M’11 (left) and chair of the Board of Trustees Greg Stevens B’74 (right) mingled at the Alumni Board hosted alumni gathering in Minneapolis, Minn., on Dec. 6, 2024.
Cardinal Pride shined courtside at the men’s basketball game v. Elmhurst on Nov. 26, 2024.
Four alumni honored during Reunion Weekend
More than 200 alumni and families came together June 27-29, 2025 during Saint Mary’s annual reunion weekend. This special event is a time for alumni to reconnect with each other and revisit memories of their time together — as well as make new memories as they return to campus and see what is new.
In addition to events on campus, alumni enjoyed a taste of Winona through a Mississippi River boat cruise.
The Class of 1975, celebrating its 50th reunion, enjoyed a special reception and dinner, and alumni from 1974 and older were invited to an alma mater banquet. Alumni were invited to tour the campus and attend Mass together, as well as have cocktails and conversation with campus leadership. A highlight of the weekend — everyone was invited to a campus picnic with barbecue on the menu!
Each year, during the alumni awards brunch and ceremony, alumni are recognized with special honors. Saint Mary’s honors alumni who have made outstanding achievements in their professional careers, who best exemplify the Lasallian charism Saint Mary’s was founded upon, and who have generously contributed time and talent to the goals and objectives of their alma mater.
This year’s awardees include: Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient Dr. Brian L. Desbiens B’67
of Omemee, Ontario, Canada; Lasallian Service Award recipient Dr. James Hake B’73 of Moses Lake, Wash.; Alumni Appreciation Award recipient Henry Jakobsze B’83 of Downers Grove, Ill. and Sherrills Ford, N.C.; and Outstanding Young Alumna Kristen (Hammermeister) Hosman B’10 of Pine, Colo.
Dr. Brian L. Desbiens B’67
Distinguished Alumnus Award
Dr. Brian L. Desbiens B’67 has dedicated his life to education and service to his community. He worked at St. Clair College from 1968-2004, starting as a faculty/counselor, senior administrator and eventually as a campus principal in Chatham, Ontario. He then went on to serve as president of Sir Sandford Fleming College from May 1988 to August 2004. Since retirement, he has established Desbiens Services which provides executive leadership coaching to senior leaders in higher education (nongovernmental organizations, colleges, and universities) and health care, and is an associate partner with Promeus, an executive search firm.
He has worked at or taught for St. Clair College, Sir Sandford Fleming College, Michigan State University, Central Michigan University, Contact North|Contact Nord, and OISE-University of Toronto.
Dr. Desbiens served on several national and provincial organizations. He served nationally on the Prime Minister’s National Advisory Board on Science
and Technology, on the National Advisory Council on Energy Efficiency, was a founding member of the Canada Millennium Scholarship Foundation, and served on the Canadian Merit Scholarship Foundation and the Loran Scholarship Foundation. In education, he served as a member and chair of the Canadian Network of College Presidents, as well as chaired the provincial Council of Presidents, the Ontario College Application Centre Management Board, and the Human Resource Development Task Force. Provincially, he was a member of the founding Board for the Optical Regional Advanced Network of Ontario (ORANO), the Secondary School Reform Committee of Ontario, the Central Ontario Smart Growth Panel, the Educational Quality and Accountability Board (which he chaired for seven years), and is a member of the Advisory Committee for the Ph.D. program in Leadership at the University of Toronto, in which he is an adjunct professor.
Dr. Desbiens has been a research associate with Contact North/Contact Nord for the past decade. He was a founding member of the Canadian Digital Learning Research Association research team conducting an annual national study of online and digital learning. He has received several awards throughout his career including the Order of Ontario.
Locally he has tirelessly served his community through many organizations like the United Way and benefitting many causes including healthcare, economic development, flood relief, poverty reduction, at-risk families, and literacy.
He and his wife, Ellen, reside in Omemee, Ontario, Canada and enjoy their three children and five grandchildren.
Dr.
James Hake B’73
Lasallian Service Award
Dr. James “Jim” Hake B’73 grew up in Owatonna, Minn. before attending Saint Mary’s. He graduated Summa Cum Laude with a divisional science major. He then attended the University of Minnesota Medical School followed by a family practice residency in Salinas, Calif.
He spent his medical career in Moses Lake, Wash., as a family doctor while raising his four sons with his wife Terry (Cullen) CST’74. He has been a member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, participating as a Eucharist Minister and member of the new church building committee and the finance committee.
Jim and Terry Hake began their association with Mission Doctors Association (founded by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles) in 2004 with a one month mission to Cameroon, Africa. A two- month mission in 2007 to Zimbabwe followed. Their positive experiences allowed them to commit to a three-year mission back to Cameroon in 2010.
St. Martin de Porres Hospital in the mountains of Cameroon was run by the Franciscan Sisters who welcomed the Hakes into their community. Jim Hake, along with three Cameroonian doctors, staffed the 225 bed hospital and outpatient clinic with 50,000 annual visits. He managed the care for over 1,000 HIV patients and dealt with malaria patients daily. Jim and Terry Hake last served in Cameroon in 2016 but civil war broke out shortly thereafter preventing further visits. They additionally served on the MDA Board for many years helping in recruiting and supporting other Catholic doctors serving overseas.
Dr. James Hake B’73
Dr. Brian L. Desbiens B’67
Henry Jakobsze B’83 Alumni Appreciation Award
As a senior vice president of Wealth Management, Henry Jakobsze B’83 of Downers Grove, Ill., and Sherills Ford, N.C., has used the same skills that have made him successful in his career to benefit his alma mater. He leads a wealth management team at UBS Financial Services (formerly PaineWebber) that provides comprehensive financial planning and investment management for corporate executives and owners of privately held companies. His team manages over $2.5 billion of client assets. Prior to joining PaineWebber in 1996, he worked with FedEx Corporation for 11 years in national sales, real estate expansion, and regional operations planning. He previously worked with Drexel Burnham Lambert, where he specialized in stock options trading on the floor of the Chicago Board Options Exchange.
Kristen (Hammermeister) Hosman B’10 Outstanding Young Alumna Award
Kristen Hosman B’10 is a five-time Microsoft MVP and holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business from Saint Mary’s. While working full time, she pursued her degree through evening classes, which laid the foundation for a thriving career in accounting before transitioning into consulting. Her diverse accounting background provides a unique perspective, enabling her to deliver tailored solutions that meet the distinct needs of small businesses.
At Saint Mary’s, Jakobsze served on the Alumni Association from 2021 to 2016 and as president from 2014-2016, during which time he volunteered with Lasallian Day of Service, the Reunion Weekend class planning committee, and the Bogey Bash. He also served on the investment subcommittee of the Board of Trustees, through which he worked closely with the CFO to help strengthen the financial security of the university. As an alumnus, Jakobsze has not only given of his time and talent to the university, he has also generously shared his treasure, philanthropically supporting his alma mater for more than 13 years through the Saint Mary’s Fund and the First Generation Initiative, knowing that education for all is part of the Lasallian mission. Living a true life of service, Jakobsze serves the communities in which he and his wife reside and various other organizations without recognition or praise, reflective of the teachings of the De La Salle Christian Brothers.
In 2018, Hosman founded Mount Evans Consulting, a firm dedicated to helping SMBs implement and support Dynamics 365 Business Central ERP solutions. As an active leader in the Microsoft Dynamics community, she shares her expertise through open forums, interviews, and conference presentations. She also serves on the advisory committee for Dynamics User Group (DUG), one of the largest gatherings for Microsoft Business Application users, where she helps shape content that drives community growth.
Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including four consecutive GPUG All-Star nominations, a Granite Award, a Dynamics 365 All Star Award nomination, and her most prestigious recognition as a Microsoft MVP for five consecutive years.
Hosman’s passion for continuous learning and community engagement reflects her commitment to helping businesses scale and succeed. She and her husband, Adam Hosman B’10 — who also graduated from Saint Mary’s with a bachelor’s in human resources — reside in Colorado with their two children, Ryker (14) and Odin (12).
Henry Jakobsze B’83
Kristen (Hammermeister) Hosman B’10
Sports Hall of Fame and Cardinal Excellence Fund Dinner
On March 22, 2025 Saint Mary’s Athletic Department welcomed five new members into its Sports Hall of Fame as part of the fourth annual Cardinal Excellence Fund dinner, held in Winona.
Attendees celebrated this year’s inductees including former volleyball players who earned the regular season championship for the MIAC their senior year, Amanda Edmond B’01, Shelley (Haake) Mosquera B’01, and Amber (Rajtora) Haschenburger B’01, as well as former volleyball coach Mike Lester, and Tony Piscitiello, AFSC B’69, M’82, a former baseball player and a former vice president once overseeing athletics.
The Cardinal Excellence Fund dinner celebrates both the inductees and the entire athletics community at Saint Mary’s — and the evening shares a theme of common experiences. It seems Cardinal student-athletes, regardless of what decade they competed, made lifelong friends, and their experiences and the bonds they formed here not only shaped who they are but have carried with them throughout their lives.
The Cardinal Excellence Fund was started to support Saint Mary’s athletics, allowing our student-athletes to achieve both athletic and academic success. Thank you to all who attended and donated. Because of you, our athletic programs continue to thrive.
In a special announcement of the evening, news of a historic gift was made by Father James P. Burns, IVD, Ph.D., that will forever transform Saint Mary’s athletics. Mr. David R. Thies B’59, former Cardinal athlete and Major League Baseball pitcher, and his wife, Marlys, have committed $5.5 million to the university, with $2.625 million dedicated to athletics. This is the largest gift to athletics in history.
This transformational gift will fund a complete remodel of the Winona Campus gymnasium — which will now bear the name David R. Thies B’59 Arena. (See more on page 28.)
“Dave Thies is more than an accomplished athlete. He is a man of his Catholic faith, integrity, and generosity — an example of the virtues we strive to instill in every Saint Mary’s student. In fact, he credits his faith and the Christian Brothers for asking him who he is. He is a friend to me and to this university, and I am so grateful to him. His success in baseball and business is remarkable, but his true legacy is his leadership, vision, and commitment to serving others,” Father Burns said.
Brian Sisson, athletic director, also thanked Dave and Marlys Thies, adding, “Cardinal athletes know they stand on the shoulders of those who came before them, dating back to our first organized teams in 1913. Because of you, we have a strong athletics legacy. Tonight is indeed a celebration of past, current, and future athletic excellence.”
The first 2025 Hall of Fame inductee, Amanda Edmond B’01, kicked off the evening. “I’m slightly competitive. I like to play things to not lose. I think part of that drove our team to really pursue and push. We were so fortunate to come in as freshmen together. We played all four years together … Those days taught me so much. Looking back now, I remember so much to succeed and be perfect and never fail and never mess up …. Now as I’m looking at the next generation and all these young, beautiful women who are strong and are playing now, I think don’t play just to win, don’t play just to be perfect, push but also don’t play not to lose. For some reason I was so scared to lose and to screw up and to fail and it drove a lot of successes. Now as I’ve gone through so much of life and made lots of mistakes and failed in so many ways, I’ve still come through, and now I have a new career where I get to help patients every single day and keep pushing and now now it’s not for fear of failure it’s wanting to actually help people on a daily basis.”
Teammate Amber (Rajtora) Haschenburger B’01 then told the audience, “When I was in school and saw the names of past Hall of
Famers, I often thought of them as these record-setting driven athletes who transcended limitations, but what you never realize, until you’re standing up here, is that these awards are given to people who were also lucky enough to have some very special people supporting them along the way.”
Another teammate, Shelley (Haake) Mosquera B’01, added, “I may have left the court years ago, but the lessons I learned, the relationships I built, and the pride I feel in being part of Saint Mary’s volleyball — they never leave you. And tonight, as I stand here, I’m reminded of how lucky I was to play this game. To wear a Saint Mary’s jersey. To be part of something bigger than myself. To the next generation of Saint Mary’s athletes — you are the legacy now. Carry it forward with pride, with passion, with the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines what it means to be a Cardinal.”
Former volleyball coach Mike Lester told his former athletes, “Because of what you started, we were able to qualify for the conference tournament 13 more times and go to the NCAA Championships on multiple occasions. One of my proudest moments as a coach was hearing from another coach that a couple of their players asked some of our women about why they were so committed to their off-season workout program with Coach Sagar. The only response our players gave was ‘It’s what we
do.’ That is it, that was what leadership looks like and that is how you maintain a tradition of success.”
Tony Piscitiello, AFSC B’69, M’82, a former baseball player and a former vice president, ended the evening with stories of his long history with Saint Mary’s athletics. “I was the vice president when John Tschida’s fastpitch softball charges won the D3 national championship in 2000, the team of the Millennium! At the rally in the gym … I had tears running down my cheeks as the team was introduced.
“MIAC championship squads from volleyball, baseball, women’s basketball, both mens and women’s hockey, women’s soccer and additional softball championships happened during those years. And yes, some terrific needed facilities were erected. Women’s hockey was one of the new sports we added during those years. Their first game was at home in December 1998 versus Bemidji State.
A ceremonial first puck drop and face-off was held with Brother Louis DeThomasis, FSC (then president) doing the honors at center ice. I accompanied him and after the puck was dropped and photos taken, the puck was handed to me and I placed it in my pocket. Well, here it is.
“I can truly say my work at Saint Mary’s University was a rewarding labor of love.”
The 2025 inductees in the Cardinal Hall of Fame include, from left: former vice president, Tony Piscitiello, AFSC B’69, M’82; volleyball teammates, Shelley (Haake) Mosquera B’01, Amanda Edmond B’01, and Amber (Rajtora) Haschenburger B’01; and former volleyball coach Mike Lester.
Maggie Newhouse B’25
Because of the generosity of Saint Mary’s benefactors, students are empowered to pursue their dreams and reach their career aspirations. Their support opens the doors to education, and their impact does not go unnoticed. All those who share their time, talent, and gi s are providing hope for the future of our community of Lasallian learners.
~ Maggie Newhouse B’25, Outgoing Student Senate president
1980s
Joseph “JJ” Wagner B’82, Plymouth, Minn., began his position as CEO at The Minneapolis Club in January 2025.
Richard “Rich” Perna Sr. B’83, Arlington Heights, Ill., began his position as partner at Krieg DeVault LLP in January 2025.
1990s
Suzanne “Suzie” Luttrell-Levy B’91, M’94, Saint Paul, Minn., began her position as vice president at Mount Olivet Rolling Acres in April 2025.
Sean Duffy B’94, Far Hills, N.J., began his position as secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation on Jan. 28, 2025.
Thomas “Joe” Holladay B’96, Boston, Mass., began his position as director of admissions and marketing at AdviniaCare Wellesley Alzheimer’s Center in March 2025.
2000s
Heidi (Wall) Pickwall B’00, Becker, Minn., began her position as food and fresh coach at Walmart in December 2024.
Angela (Yockey) Gustafson B’01, M’06, Minneapolis, Minn., began her position as director of solution consulting at Sitecore in March 2025.
Dr. Emily McDonald M’02, D’07, C’09, C’17, Newport, Minn., received the Kay E. Jacobs Memorial Award in March 2025. The award is presented annually to a female administrator who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a commitment to students, and active participation in the Minnesota Association of School Administrators.
Matthew “Matt” Heitman B’03, Elko New Market, Minn., began his position as operations manager at Protolabs in February 2025.
Scott Schultz B’03, Cary, Ill., began his position as MSSSI vice presidententerprise strategic accounts team at Motorola Solutions in January 2025.
Sarah (Coleman) Schumacher B’04, M’08, M’25, Dayton, Minn., began her position as senior director of financial planning and analysis at Celcuity in January 2025.
Michael “Mike” Bry B’05, Andover, Minn., began his position as project manager estimator at Gresser Companies in February 2025.
Jeremy Wells M’06, CFRE, Blaine, Minn., was named the AFP 2025 Outstanding Fundraising Professional of the Year.
Margaret (Soucheray) Sonnek B’07, Wabasha, Minn., began her position as hospital coordinator at Gundersen Health System in January 2025.
Clay Anderson M’08, Pipestone, Minn., was inducted into the Minnesota Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame on March 29, 2025.
Daniel “Dan” Lewis ’08, Downers Grove, Ill., began his position as operations manager at Winnie Industries in January 2025.
Melinda (Smith) Harkins M’09, Lake City, Minn., began her position as materials manager at Central Research Laboratories in February 2025.
2010s
Colin McGlynn B’11, Saint Bonifacius, Minn., began his position as dedicated sales executive at Werner Enterprises in April 2025.
Matthew Gorgone B’12, Davenport, Fla., began his position as events specialist at Universal Orlando Resort in January 2025.
Jessica Vitale ’12, Chicago, Ill., began her position as chief strategy officer at Northwestern Mutual in January 2025.
Minda (Buckland) Anderson B’13, M’16, Jenkins, Minn., began her position as human resources business partner at Astera Health in January 2025.
Eric Lusch B’13, Saint Paul, Minn., began his position as media management maestro at Poker Org in March 2025.
Nicholas White B’13, Sandy, Utah, began his position as vice president of sales at FireAvert in February 2025.
Dr. Andrew Neumann B’14, C’15, D’22, Rochester, Minn., began his position as financial advisor at Thrivent in February 2025.
Thomas “Tommy” Robaczewski B’14, Arlington Heights, Ill., began his position
as director of creative services, global partners, NFL, golf and entertainment at Legends in February 2025.
Justin Wendel B’14, Saint Paul, Minn., began his position as transportation analyst at Donaldson in March 2025.
Binara Karunanayake B’15, Hopkins, Minn., began his position as IT analyst at Epicor in March 2025.
Christina Drugon B’16, Gurnee, Ill., began her position as human resources and talent consultant at Roadrunners Autotransport in February 2025.
Dr. Megan Hafner B’16, La Crescent, Minn., began her position as optometrist at Emplify Health in January 2025.
Mark Schumacher B’16, Perham, Minn., published a teacher’s manual called Introduction to Catholic Ethics Teacher Resource Guide through the National Catholic Educational Association in February 2025.
Bradley “Brad” Hauser B’17, M’20, Saint Paul, Minn., began his position as senior director of business intelligencehospitality at Legends in February 2025.
Carl “Phil” Heinle B’17, Wayzata, Minn., began his position as vice president at Piper Sandler in March 2025.
Brian Propp B’17, Eagan, Minn., began his position as real estate portfolio manager at Ecolab in December 2024.
Conor Gorman B’18, Orland Park, Ill., began his position as district director with Representative Nicole La Ha District 82 in January 2025.
Clarice “Clare” (Tack) Grzanich B’18, Saint Charles, Ill., began her position as recruitment manager at Stumm Insurance in March 2025.
Jared Johnson B’18, Saint Paul, Minn., began his position as wealth manager and shareholder at Echo Wealth Management in January 2025.
Daniel Lodwich B’18, Colorado Springs, Colo., began his position as QA technician at Fresca Foods in December 2024.
Ryan Charko B’19, Saint Paul, Minn., began his position as national account manager at Integrity Communications and Solutions in February 2025.
CLASS NOTES
Jordan Kochevar M’19, Chisholm, Minn., began his position as staff accountant at Premium Plant Services in March 2025. 2020s
Laura Gagnon B’20, Saint Paul, Minn., began her position as healthcare equity specialist at Minnesota Department of Health in January 2025.
Brennan McGuire B’20, Bloomington, Minn., began his position as business intelligence lead at CIRANDA Inc. in February 2025.
Javier Ocariz-Elsen M’20, Rochester, Minn., founded Novo Mental Health, which provides mental health services to adolescents and adults in December 2024.
Sarah Hardy B’21, Hastings, Minn., graduated from Louisiana State University in August 2024 with a Master of Social Work and began her position as a pre-independently licensed therapist at Allina Health in December 2024.
Jacob “Jake” Homan B’21, North Mankato, Minn., began his position as accounts payable specialist at SBS CyberSecurity in February 2025.
Ryan Krewer B’21, Wichita, Kan., began his position as hearing conservation coordinator and clinical administrative assistant at Marion Downs Center in February 2025.
Joseph Pyka B’21, Independence, Wis., began his position as associate director of events at Partnership for Youth in March 2025.
Rebecca Beaufeaux M’22, Elk Mound, Wis., was named a 2025 Herb Kohl Teacher Fellow, an award given to educators across Wisconsin who exemplify a commitment to excellence in teaching and student engagement.
Anthony Houle M’22, Denver, Colo., began his position as associate analytics advisor at Mayo Clinic in December 2024.
Jacob Blaskowsky B’23, Colorado Springs, Colo., began his position as truck driver at Covenant in February 2025.
Anthony Heier B’23, Winona, Minn., began his position as senior developer
of data science at Fastenal in February 2025.
Emilie Serna B’23, Bowlus, Minn., began her position as drafting and editing assistant at the Office of the Revisor of Statutes, Minnesota Legislature in January 2025.
Jacob Benedict B’24, M’24, Milaca, Minn., began his position as staff accountant at SDK CPAs in January 2025.
Robert “Rob” Haedt B’24, Rochester, Minn., began his position as inventory invoicing specialist at Viking Forest Products in February 2025.
Sydney Haus B’24, Crookston, Minn., began her position as communications specialist at the Diocese of Crookston in February 2025.
Mason Klett B’24, Apple Valley, Minn., began his position as inside sales representative at IdentiSys in February 2025.
Katrice Sisson M’24, Fountain City, Wis., began her position as business development strategist at Winona Health in January 2025.
Katherine Valentine B’24, Chanhassen, Minn., began her position as direct support professional at Ehrnriter Cares in December 2024.
MARRIAGES
2010s
Dr. Tyler Lursen B’16 and Kaitlin Lursen, Bloomington, Minn., were married on Oct. 12, 2024.
BIRTHS
2000s
Nanci (Gruetzmacher) Valdmanis B’09, New Prague, Minn., welcomed a son on Feb. 28, 2025.
2010s
Andrea (Hoglin) Carlson B’12 and Casey Carlson, Burnsville, Minn., welcomed a son on Feb. 5, 2025.
Katherine “Katie” (Theis) Tauer B’13 and Bryan Tauer, Northfield, Minn., welcomed a son in February 2025.
Sarah (Amir) Krieger B’14 and Matt Krieger, Oak Brook, Ill., welcomed a son on Jan. 15, 2025.
Kaitlyn (Bryant) B’14 and Brandon B’15 Larsen, Saint Paul, Minn., welcomed a daughter on Jan. 7, 2025.
Katherine “Katie” Sapper B’14 and Charlie Gange, El Cajon, Calif., welcomed a daughter on March 9, 2025.
John B’14, M’16 and Jenna (Trio) B’15 Soucheray, Rochester, Minn., welcomed a daughter on Feb. 16, 2025.
Janna (Mason) B’14 and John “Joey” ’16 Van Antwerp, Beverly Hills, Mich., welcomed a son and a daughter on Dec. 5, 2024.
Reikel Biechler B’15 and Mary MoatsBiechler B’15, Roland, Iowa, welcomed a daughter on Feb. 19, 2025.
Molly Nocera B’15 and Grif Lucas, Chicago, Ill., welcomed a son on Feb. 19, 2025.
Alexandrea “Alex” (Peterson) Masters B’16 and Jake Masters, Preston, Minn., welcomed a daughter on Oct. 11, 2024.
Sydney (Rudquist) B’17 and Oscar ’17 Mascorro, Oak Lawn, Ill., welcomed a daughter on March 17, 2025.
Gabrielle “Gabby” (Schauer) Lehner B’18 and Benjamin Lehner, Champlin, Minn., welcomed a son on Dec. 23, 2024.
Kate (Dulak) Dorman B’19, CRM specialist, and Blake Dorman, Winona, Minn., welcomed a daughter on March 19, 2025.
2020s
Amanda (Pohlman) Biggs B’20 and Grant Biggs, Elkhorn, Neb., welcomed twin daughters, Cecilia Joy and Gianna Rose, on Feb. 25, 2025.
DEATHS
1940s
John Richter B’48, Carmel, Calif., passed away on Dec. 20, 2024.
1950s
Dr. George Frisch B’50, Winona, Minn., passed away on July 5, 2024.
Brother Paul was one of those “Lasallian giants” in the Midwest District, the North American Region, and the global institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. In his 71 years as a De La Salle Christian Brother, he worked at Saint Mary’s between 1967 and 1988, holding a half dozen roles and offices during that time, including 10 years as vice president for administration. He was the principal planning and budgeting officer for the then-college, and was overseer of $3 million in Title III grants for academic, administrative, and student development. He was responsible for planning many campus and building improvements. He also spent many years editing at Saint Mary’s Press.
His dedication and competence were recognized with the Bishop Patrick Heffron Award in 1986, as well as an honorary doctorate in Fine and Performing Arts in 1989, and the Religious Service award in 2007.
Saint Mary’s is grateful for Brother Paul’s many years of dedicated service.
SYMPATHIES
1960s
John “Jack” Stypa B’64, for the passing of his brother, Jerome “Jerry” Stypa B’63, on Aug. 29, 2024.
1970s
Dr. Robert “Bob” Duffy Jr. B’73, for the passing of his brother, James “Jim” Duffy B’77, on Jan. 25, 2025.
1980s
Mary (Flynn) Bansley B’80, Jean (Bansley) Maroney B’82, Helen (Bansley) Bollhagen ’97, James Bansley ’06, Patrick Bansley ’08, and Brian Bansley B’18, for the passing of their father-in-law, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, James Bansley ’54, on Jan. 13, 2025.
Stephen “Steve” Anderle B’87 and John Anderle B’90, for the passing of their father, Rudolph “Rudy” Anderle B’61, on Dec. 31, 2024.
1990s
James “Jim” Buffo B’96, for the passing of his father, James “Jim” Buffo Jr. B’67, on Dec. 23, 2024.
2000s
Margaret Kinney M’00, for the passing of her husband, Eugene “Gene” Kinney B’61, on Oct. 21, 2024.
Anne (Wooden) Bremer B’01, C’02, for the passing of her father, David Wooden ’67, on Sept. 27, 2024.
Adam Ferenzi B’04, for the passing of his father, George Ferenzi B’66, on March 12, 2025.
Anthony “Tony” Thelen B’12, for the passing of his mother, Robin Thelen, former Saint Mary’s employee, on April 27, 2025.
Faculty/Staff
Very Rev. James P. Burns, IVD, Ph.D., University President, for the passing of his brother, Mark Burns, on Dec. 12, 2024.
Robert ‘Bob’ Kierlin
Robert “Bob” Kierlin, a respected community leader, devoted philanthropist, and longtime generous supporter of Saint Mary’s, passed away Feb. 10, 2025.
Born and raised in Winona, Kierlin graduated from Cotter High School. While working at IBM, he developed a business plan for an idea he had since he was about 12 years old: selling threaded fasteners through a vending machine. After convincing four friends to invest in the idea, Fastenal — now a global industry-leading distributor of industrial and construction supplies including fasteners and tools — began in 1967. Kierlin served as the company’s chief executive officer from 1968 through 2002 and its president from 1968 through July 2001. He retired from the Fastenal board when he turned 75 in 2014. Additionally, he served eight years in the Minnesota Senate from 1999 to 2006, representing his district in southeast Minnesota.
Kierlin received an honorary doctorate from Saint Mary’s in 1993. His wife, Mary Burrichter, served on the Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees from 2002-2010 and 2011-2021.
Bob and Mary supported many Saint Mary’s initiatives throughout the years, including Brother William Hall, Aquinas Hall, arts programs, and the restoration of the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels. Bob also co-founded and served on the board of the private Hiawatha Education Foundation, alongside his two daughters and their spouses. His late wife, Stefannié Valéncia-Kierlin, a former Saint Mary’s trustee, predeceased him in January 1999. She is known for directing the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts.
Bob and Mary have also served on many boards and helped further establish Winona as a destination arts community by being the founders of the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, strong supporters of the Minnesota Beethoven Festival, and the founders of the Minnesota Masterpiece Hall (which includes art galleries and a state-of-the-art concert hall).
On The Eric Miller Show, Bob Kierlin left this leadership wisdom:
“Well, it’s not a formula as much as advice that I would give people who are thinking of starting a business. The first thing is to appreciate not how much you know, but how little you know.”
He furthered, “Learn to challenge rather than to control. When you’re in a leadership position, it’s often easy to control people, and that’s where you get what I call a fear of delegation. People who are leaders don’t think people are going to do as well as they really are capable of doing, but when you learn to challenge rather than control, you challenge the people, you tell them what kind of outcomes you want and don’t tell them exactly how to do it. You might tell them how you’ve been doing it, but let them find their own way to accomplish the same thing, and you’d be surprised how many times they’re going to do better than what you thought they could do and better than what you were able to do. So challenge rather than control. That’s probably the main thing that I would like to leave people with who are going into business. Challenge rather than control.”
Bob’s motto was “I believe in people and free markets.”
The university invites those who knew him to honor his memory, not only in mourning but in celebrating a life lived fully.
This photo, titled “fundraising dinner,” was not dated, but we can assume several things by looking at it. First, it’s definitely before the 1950s — there are no women present, it is before color film was invented, and the clothing style gives it away.
Contrast the top image to our second image, taken during our previous capital campaign public kickoff dinner in 2017, which included exploding confetti cannons, videos set to music, moving speeches, and a more celebratory atmosphere — not to mention women.
No matter what form our benefactor events take — where they are held, how many people attend, or even what decade they were held in — we will always be forever grateful for everyone who has generously contributed to Saint Mary’s University. Every gift of every amount is appreciated. We’re grateful … because of you.
If you have more information about these photos please contact Saint Mary’s Magazine editor, Deb Nahrgang. Email dnahrgan@ smumn.edu or mail comments to:
Saint Mary’s Magazine
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M.S. in Clinical Psychology
The first online clinical psychology master’s with Catholic faith integration. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers the only Master of Science in Clinical Psychology in the U.S. that fully combines Catholic faith into clinical training — blending evidence-based practice with a focus on ethics, spirituality, and holistic care.
