Engaging Mind & Spirit 2017-18 - Issue 1

2017–2018 Issue 1

Music and Performing Arts at USF

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Bigger Thinking—STILL Rooted in the Liberal Arts

Those of you who have been on campus in the past few years know that we also have many students and community members engaged in the performing arts and in our visual arts program, which was

Dear Members of the USF Family,

featured about a year ago in this magazine. However, because this issue focuses on music at our university,

Welcome to the latest issue of “Engaging Mind and

I’d encourage you to join us in celebrating our

Spirit”—our University of St. Francis magazine and

many vocal and instrumental ensembles! More

one way that we strive to remain connected to you:

importantly, please consider attending some of the

our alumni, our friends, our parents, our employees,

many “Music at Moser” performances that are

and our supporters…in short, our USF family.

offered each semester. (You’ll likely see me there, and if you do, please be sure to say “hi!”)

As I noted at this point last year, our mission statement

Arvid C. Johnson, Ph.D. President University of St. Francis

begins “As a Catholic university rooted in the liberal

So pour yourself a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy

arts”—that means our university is up front about

this latest update about what’s happening at your

the fact that we aspire to educate the whole student

USF. And, as always, please know that I continue to

with not only the depth of knowledge necessary

consider myself incredibly blessed to serve as your

in their major fields of study, but also the breadth of

president and promise to work hard to earn the trust

knowledge that will prepare them to live a full and

that you have placed in me.

fulfilling life.

Peace and all good things, Again, as I noted last year at this point, our General Education (“GenEd”) curriculum seeks to ensure that every student receives a well-rounded education— one that includes literacy, literary inquiry and aesthetic awareness, numerical understanding and scientific inquiry, historical understanding, social awareness, philosophical inquiry and religious foundations—in other words, all the things that will prepare our students to be responsible, contributing members of society both today and into the (unknown and unpredictable) future. Yes, even in the 21st century, we remain committed to “aesthetic awareness” and consider our graduates to be more fully prepared as a result!

Why are we returning to this topic/theme—one year later—in my column and in this issue writ large?

First of all, it remains an important, mission-critical part of who we are. As importantly and more directly, I wanted to assure you that the liberal arts are alive and well and thriving at USF. Indeed, this issue of “Engaging Mind & Spirit” provides ample evidence of that.

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Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine

IN TH IS IS S U E

Engaging Mind & Spirit is published three times each academic year.

Feedback is welcomed and can be sent to Julie Futterer ’93, Director of Marketing Services: 815-740-3826 or jfutterer@stfrancis.edu.

Content Julie Futterer Dave Laketa Katie Smith Luke Tanaka Other USF Employees, students & friends

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Imagery Cherry Hill Studio Danielle Conrad ’17 Jessica Conte Julie Futterer Other USF Employees, students & friends

F EATUR E S TO RY

USF’s Halls are Alive with the Sound of Music

Design Adam Middleton

2 USF NEWS

Printing & Distribution Courier Graphics / CEREUS—Phoenix

3 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 8 COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES

9 COLLEGE OF BUSINESS &

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HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

10 COLLEGE OF EDUCATION 11 LEACH COLLEGE OF NURSING

12 T HE FIGHTING SAINTS

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Please help us in our efforts to reduce waste. If this is an incorrect address for the intended recipient, if you no longer wish to receive this publication, or want to receive it electronically, contact Christina Kuzava at 815-740-4287 or ckuzava@stfrancis.edu to update your records.

13 FAITH, MISSION & DIVERSITY 14 GIVING BACK 15 INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

STAYING CONNECTED

3 ON THE COVER Equipment in DARA’s state-of-the-art lab is used by eager music production students.

PHOTO BY DANIELLE CONRAD ’17

Our Mission As a Catholic university rooted in the liberal arts, we are a welcoming community of learners challenged by Franciscan values and charism, engaged in a continuous pursuit of knowledge, faith, wisdom, and justice, and ever mindful of a tradition that emphasizes reverence for creation, compassion, and peace-making. We strive for academic excellence in all programs, preparing women and men to contribute to the world through service and leadership.

A Year of Service / 2017–2018

University of St. Francis 500 Wilcox Street, Joliet, Illinois 60435 800-735-7500 / stfrancis.edu

USF N EWS

USF Recognized by MONEY Magazine and Colleges of Distinction The University of St. Francis was ranked for the

of Admissions and Enrollment

Colleges for Your Money” list. USF proudly placed

Services, to the university’s

among the top 30 private master’s institutions in the

leadership team. Wignall comes to

nation and first in the state of Illinois.

St. Francis after serving as the vice

The study utilizes research on education quality,

president for enrollment manage-

financing and value to determine the 711 colleges

ment for the past seven years at

and universities that made the list. Factors within these

Ancilla College in Plymouth, Ind.

categories include instructor and peer quality, net

Wignall was influential in doubling

price of a degree and graduate earnings. Placing 234

Ancilla’s enrollment, creating

overall, the listing highlights USF’s generous financial

new academic programs and

aid benefits and strong graduation rate as major assets

expanding the athletic presence at

to the university. Ninety-nine percent of students

the Catholic junior college.

receive some kind of financial aid, including the 86%

Prior to Ancilla, Wignall served in

who receive merit based grants.

faculty and staff roles at

“The University of St. Francis is pleased that its

Valparaiso University, Purdue

commitment to student success—whether in terms of

University-Calumet and Governor’s

retention and graduation rates or in terms of in-field

State University.

job placement—continues to be recognized in national

rankings such as these,” commented USF President

sity dedicated to enhancing

to the world through service and leadership is not only essential to our mission but also a critical part of

our value proposition.”

rankings is exciting, the most important indicators

of our success as educators are that our students have

“While being recognized for our quality in these

College of Distinction. The university was honored for

a great learning experience, graduate and find jobs

its nursing, business and education programs in

that launch their careers,” said Johnson. “We achieve

addition to receiving the Catholic College distinction.

this by being a welcoming community of learners

This is the sixth consecutive year that USF has been

committed to serving those who aspire to serve

recognized by Colleges of Distinction for outstanding

others. As a campus of doers, we provide our students

contributions to higher education.

with an ethic of care that allows them to be their

best selves.”

Colleges of Distinction seeks out colleges and

“I am honored to serve at the

University of St. Francis, a univer-

Arvid Johnson, Ph.D. “Preparing students to contribute

USF was also proud to be named a 2017–18

In August, USF welcomed Eric Wignall, new Vice President

first time by MONEY magazine in its annual 2017 “Best

USF WELCO M ES N E W V I CE PRESIDENT OF ADM ISSIONS

universities whose curriculum emphasizes critical

St. Francis strives to provide its students with a

thinking, writing, presentation skills, research

variety of learning opportunities both inside and

and global perspectives. Honored colleges have

outside the classroom. Students are challenged to put

distinguished themselves in those four areas and have

their education to the test by participating in intern-

a demonstrated dedication to enriching student

ships, work-study opportunities and research projects,

outcomes through innovative learning opportunities.

in addition to their standard curriculum. USF also offers study abroad programming in several locations around the globe and hosts many international students throughout the school year.

student lives and providing amazing educational opportunities,” Wignall said. “I look forward to working together with the faculty, staff, and students to deliver a compelling vision of what the university offers to the widest possible audience. The more people learn about St. Francis, the more students will want to join this community and build their knowledge and future here.”

“We are excited to have Eric

join the University of St. Francis team,” said USF President Arvid Johnson. “He brings a wealth of experience, a creative mindset, and a ‘can-do’ attitude to this important role.”

Wignall has a degree in history

from the University of Essex in Colchester, England and degrees in history and political science 2

Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine

from Indiana State University.

In May, Mayor of Joliet Bob O’Dekirk presented the University of St. Francis with the City of Joliet’s 12th annual Joliet Historic Preservation Award in celebration of Preservation Month.

“As Joliet’s university, the University of St. Francis is particularly pleased

with this recognition by and our long-time partnership with the City of Joliet,” said Arvid Johnson, USF president. “Our mission calls us to be a ‘welcoming community of learners’ and that includes ensuring that our facilities and grounds support and complement that mission. As we plan and build for our future, the university looks forward to working with the City of Joliet and the Cathedral Area Preservation Association to continue our commitment to a welcoming environment.”

USF was honored for renovations made at the St. Clare Campus.

Guardian Angel Hall, the main building there, was previously known in Joliet as the “Guardian Angel Home.” It was built in 1925 and dedicated in 1926 by Cardinal Mundelein as a home for orphaned and dependent children. The Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, USF’s founders, operated and staffed the home and its social service agencies for nearly 90 years until the University of St. Francis bought the property and buildings from the congregation in 2014.

CALENDAR OF EV EN TS

USF RECEIVES J O L I E T ’ S HI S T O RI C PRES ERVAT IO N AWA RD

September 2017 23

Choro de Lá pra Cá with Singer Dill Costa (Music at Moser)

30

First Annual Music Collage Concert (Music at Moser)

October 1–6

Ss. Francis & Clare Week with Daily Events on Campus (University Ministry)

1

USF Family Mass (University Ministry)

7–8

Homecoming & Reunion Weekend (Alumni)

7

Annual Alumni Network Meetings (Alumni)

Distinguished Alumni Dinner & Awards Ceremony (Alumni) “The Fortunate Sons”—Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute Band (Alumni)

9

Bernie Campus Visit Day (Admissions)

10

Transfer, Adult Undergraduate, and Graduate Open House (Admissions)

12

Accounting Alumni Reunion (Alumni)

13

Day of Giving (Institutional Advancement)

14

Technology for Teachers: Teaching & Learning in 1:1 Environments (Alumni)

18

Student Alumni Mentoring (SAM) Induction Dinner (Alumni)

28

Freshman and Transfer Nursing Campus Visit Day (Admissions)

30

Faculty Recital: Pianist Jiafeng Yan (Music at Moser)

Exhibit Opening—Chris Hodge, through Dec. 5 (Art Gallery)

November 2

Alumnae Volleyball Reunion (Alumni)

5

Freshman Campus Visit Day (Admissions)

9

Business Alumni & Student Speed Networking Event (Alumni)

9–11

Fall Play: “Boy Gets Girl” by Rebecca Gilman (Music at Moser)

14

Transfer Registration (Admissions)

16

Alumni Trip to See “Hamilton” (Alumni)

17

Vocal Jazz Featuring the Swingin’ Saints (Music at Moser)

18

26th Annual St. Francis Writers’ Conference (Department of English and Foreign Languages)

28

Fall Student Recital 1 (Music at Moser)

30

USF Society Lunch Event (Institutional Advancement)

December 1–2

Christmas at the Motherhouse: “Gaudete!” (Music at Moser)

2

Breakfast with Santa (Alumni)

3

Christmas Caroling Service Day (Alumni)

5

Student Recital II (Music at Moser)

9

Alumni Network Meetings (Alumni)

9–10

Joliet Symphony Orchestra at USF: “Christmas Classics—Into the Woods” (Music at Moser)

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Winter Commencement

January 2018

The university was honored for a complete interior renovation and

adaptive re-use of the Guardian Angel Hall building, including preservation

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Exhibit Opening—Illinois High School Art Competition, through Jan. 23 (Art Gallery)

12

Alumni Blackhawks Game (Alumni)

13

Joliet Symphony Orchestra Family Concert: Peter and the Wolf (Music at Moser)

20

Illinois High School Art Competition Reception and Awards (Art Gallery)

27

61st Annual Caritas Scholarship Ball (Institutional Advancement)

of the main interior hallways, and significant improvements to the

February

surroundings such as new parking lots, storm water detention and

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Freshman Scholarship Competition (Admissions)

landscaping. An emphasis was also placed on including and highlighting

Akropolis Reed Quintet: On the Town (Music at Moser)

native plants on the three acres of green space there, to preserve the

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LaVerne & Dorothy Brown Science Hall Dedication (Institutional Advancement)

19

Bernie Campus Visit Day (Admissions)

natural Illinois plant habitat and showcase its beauty. In an addition to native plants, the university planted butterfly milkweed to nurture and stimulate a decreasing butterfly population.

For more detailed information or to confirm any changes that may occur with these scheduled events, visit stfrancis.edu/usf-calendar.

A Year of Service / 2017–2018

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USF’s Halls are Alive with the Sound of Music R

ecently retired music faculty member and chairperson Dr. Patrick Brannon has seen the

Department of Music and Performing Arts transform significantly over the course of the last

THE DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. FRANCIS HAS A LONG HISTORY, STARTING DURING ITS ALL-WOMEN’S COLLEGE DAYS AND CONTINUING THROUGH THE CO-ED CAMPUS CULTURE OF TODAY.

25 years. Brannon, who retired this spring, was hired in 1992 to help rebuild the music program

after support and interest for music and the arts had been declining. He and long-time art instructor Karen Kietzman ’66 became co-chairs for the department and were the nucleus of the arts program.

In addition to teaching music appreciation, history and theory full-time, Brannon’s duty was to recruit voices for a new choir called the Schola Cantorum, which means “school of singing.” Brannon sought

out a range of good soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices, and aimed for a variety in repertoire that included Gregorian chant, contemporary pieces, and everything in between. Membership ranged from 16 voices in the first year to as many as 42 at one point.

The group’s first concerts were held in Alverno Hall on the third floor of Tower Hall, where the registrar’s and financial aid offices are now located. In 1993, Schola’s second year, the Moser Performing Arts

Center opened. Concerts were performed in the James and Patricia Sexton Auditorium and Sue Manner Turk Theater. When St. Joseph Chapel in the Motherhouse was renovated, the group started performing there as well, especially at Christmastime.

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Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine

“We would start and end in the dark, with

candlelight. It became a lovely tradition. There

would be times I’d be conducting and something would just click—you could just feel something

special happening in the room that would send a

chill down your spine. In those moments, I’d think

‘this is the best job anyone could ever have,’”

Brannon said of Schola’s annual Christmas at the Motherhouse concerts.

Kietzman left in 1999, and Brannon became the

department’s sole chairperson. In 2004, he hired

a second full-time music instructor, vocalist Clarice Hearne, who came with a wealth of experience

as a founding member of Music of the Baroque and a voice in the Lyric Opera and Chicago Symphony Orchestra choruses. Hearne and Brannon worked extremely well together.

Said Brannon, “Clarice had the most incredible

talent for opening young voices. We had a great

partnership and I have the greatest respect for her.”

When the university’s visual arts program moved to

Including those in the DARA OS ensemble,

took the initiative to expand music program

Arts staff for students in that program, there

a space in downtown Joliet, Brannon and Hearne offerings and helped develop the university’s first music major. When it was introduced, Brannon

and Hearne also felt it was important to develop an instrumental ensemble, and the Joliet Symphony Orchestra ( JSO) at USF was born.

The dynamic duo also started the Singing Saints and Concert Chorale choirs, and re-instituted

the spring musical. The Swingin’ Saints vocal jazz

ensemble came later, and this year, a Jazz Chamber Ensemble will also take the stage after being

established by former Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences Bob Kase, a Grammy-nominated

musician. Finally, while it’s more of a club than an ensemble, Saints on Stage is the theater group

that produces the fall play and spring musical, and students get credit for participation.

which was created by the Digital Audio Recording are currently more than 125 participants in all of the groups. All students on campus are welcome to

join or audition for any ensemble for course credit, and some even receive scholarships. Most theater productions, the JSO and Concert Chorale

are open to members of the local community in addition to students.

“There has been a very concerted effort to raise the stature of the music program and to get more

students and people from the community involved.

We want people to know we are a ‘happening’ place where music is concerned,” said Brannon.

The seasonal performances of the ensembles,

student and faculty recitals, plays and musicals, and an exciting lineup of external performers are the

foundation of the Music at Moser Performing Arts CO NT I NU E D O N T H E NE X T PAG E

A Year of Service / 2017–2018

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Series at USF. A new addition to the schedule this year will be a “Collage Concert” on September 30.

It will include performances by USF’s ensembles,

solos by students and faculty members, and a silent auction to raise money for an acoustic shell to

expand the stage and allow for more impactful collaborations.

Also this year, the JSO’s winter and spring concerts, respectively, will include the performance of 2017 JSO Composition Competition winner Chris

Lowry’s “A Cypress Prelude,” and a performance by 2016–17 JSO Concerto Competition winners

Kayla Cabrera, viola (junior division) and Anna

Valcour, soprano (senior division). Finally, the JSO will perform its first-ever free family concert

on Jan. 13, performing Prokofiev's “Peter and the Wolf ” and then allowing children to try playing various orchestral instruments.

THE CURRENT SCORE

While ensembles are a great way to showcase

student talent, St. Francis offers two academic

programs for those more serious about learning

music theory and performance. The first and most popular, according to current music department chair and Director of Orchestral Activities Alexandra Dee, is the B.A. in Music with

concentrations including Generalist in Music and Digital Audio Recording Arts. The second is a

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“

Our philosophy is to create

21st century musicians.

”

B.M. in Music Performance with concentrations in

experiences, starting with Jeffrey Ray, who has sung

minor, which can be easily combined with many

Bulls and Cubs and has performed with the Lyric

Guitar, Piano and Voice. USF also offers a music non-music majors, and all students on campus, experienced or not, are welcome to register for private lessons in voice, piano, guitar or any

orchestral instrument. The goal of all the programs is to send students into the world as well-rounded

musicians with varied skills that will allow them to build successful careers.

“Our philosophy is to create 21st century musicians.

This means they have an entrepreneurial spirit,

combined with a comfort with technology and

diverse kinds of music. An individual student might be focused primarily in traditional classical music, jazz, or musical theater, but we want to make sure they have enough skills to function competently across genres,” expressed Dee.

Courses are taught by two full-time faculty

members, Dee and newly-hired Director of Choral Activities Paul Laprade, with approximately 15

adjuncts. Some instructors had some impressive

the National Anthem for the Bears, Blackhawks, Opera of Chicago, at Carnegie Hall and at the

Ravinia Festival. Willard Thomen, like Hearne, was also a member of the Chicago Symphony

Orchestra Chorus. Laprade has had an impressive career that includes taking choirs to the White

House to perform for three different presidents, and Dee debuted this past February with the

Joffrey Ballet, conducting members of the Chicago Philharmonic at Chicago’s Auditorium Theater.

And though he didn’t teach music, Bob Kase also

contributed something quite special during his time at USF. After realizing USF didn’t have an alma

mater that was sung at graduation or alumni events, he wrote one. He wanted the song to bring a

feeling of nostalgia and remembrance of USF. He wrote the music and lyrics, harmonized it for

a full choir, and orchestrated it for a full symphony orchestra. He used the same process to compose a pep band instrumentation for the fight song

that is now performed at all USF athletic events.

Current Vice President of Student & Alumni

Affairs Damon Sloan has become the “voice” of the

generously donated her husband’s

on orientation day and also at graduation—

to USF. At the same time, the

alma mater, singing it faithfully to new freshmen

reminding students that it will be the first and last song they hear as a Fighting Saint.

THE DIGITAL AGE: DARA

Like all things, music has gone digital. The Digital Audio Recording Arts (DARA) program at

USF got its start in the music department, but in 2015, it became an independent major with four concentrations including Audio Engineer,

Music Industry Entrepreneur, Recording Artist and User Generated Content Development.

Said Dee, “DARA is a big standout for our school.

Even if music students don’t select the DARA concentration, they’re still able to take DARA courses, in which they use state-of-the-art

equipment and learn highly marketable and useful skills.”

It is not difficult to see who is responsible for the program’s success. No stranger to the music

personal recording studio equipment university’s Academic Technology

Committee was accepting proposals for new equipment, and that’s how DARA obtained its first

computers and music hardware. The program took residence in the

old art department space on the fourth floor of Tower Hall, and DARA was official.

The unique thing about the DARA major is that it coaches students

to be musicians, engineers AND

entrepreneurs. The program took on an entrepreneurial focus, which parents really liked, according

to Jaskowiak. Interface with the

College of Business & Health Administration was what made it work, giving students more skills in marketing and business.

industry, DARA Program Director Jeff Jaskowiak

Said Jaskowiak, “Students have to like to make

studio in his home. His own interest in music was

to make a living doing it. Learning how to make a

plays and teaches guitar and has a recording

the seed from which the entire DARA program has blossomed.

“A former USF administrator saw my home

studio one day and asked, ‘Why doesn’t the school have a studio like this?’ Then when Bob Kase

became our dean, I showed it to him and he urged

music, but they also have to figure out how

go of it as a lifetime career is an art. That’s the

reason the program works so well. No other schools bundle coursework like we do. Our balance of

musicianship with technical and entrepreneurial components is unlike anything offered at any other school.”

me to write the coursework for the DARA major.

There are currently 28 DARA majors but the

was approved in November of 2009, and the

Jaskowiak and Alby Odum, who started as

I created the original ten courses. The curriculum

concentration was available in 2010,” said Jaskowiak.

Donations helped get the DARA program off

the ground, including the very first gift of a mixing console, wiring, soundproofing materials and

a sound booth from the wife of a music lover

named Bryan Mitchell, who passed away in spring of 2010. Through a friend of a friend, Jaskowiak was introduced to Mitchell’s wife, Mary, who

goal is 60 or even 80. They are taught full-time by an adjunct in 2011 and went full-time in 2016.

They are joined by adjunct professors Natalie

Caballero, Adam Hill, Linnea McCracken ’10 and some classes are taught by Anthony Musiala,

USF’s WCSF 88.7 FM radio station director.

DARA’s “digs” on campus consist of a tracking room, where musicians perform and where

instruments are housed; a control room, where

the mixing console lives and where signals from the tracking room are received; and the lab, where

production work takes place on computers. With state-of-the-art tools such as Pro-Tools, Ableton and more, Jaskowiak feels USF’s computers

are some of the best available for music production.

Said Jaskowiak, “I really love being at St. Francis and collaborating with the people I work with

on a daily basis. I want the program to be a success for many reasons—for the students, for the

school, and even for the teachers. That is always foremost in my mind. But doing all of this

under the Franciscan umbrella is great, because then you have an honor…a respect element.

We try to uphold that in our program at all times.

USF is like no other place I’ve been. It’s the whole rich package.”

Musiala, hired in 2015, came to USF with

an extensive background in radio and music

marketing, and experience with independent music label management.

For more information on USF’s music programming: stfrancis.edu/academics/music-performing-arts stfrancis.edu/academics/dara

A Year of Service / 2017–2018

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CO LLEG E O F A RT S & S CI E N CE S

Substance Abuse Counseling Program Students Present Debate

DARA SUM M ER CAM P

The USF Substance Abuse Counseling (SAC)

area teenagers how to make music

program, led by faculty member and program

with DARA’s state-of-the-art

director Larry Dunbar, hosted the June meeting of

recording equipment and software

the Southwest Coalition for Substance Abuse

during a one-week summer camp

Issues. Dunbar and majors in the substance abuse

in June. Throughout the week,

counseling program, including Jilan Delk, Skyler

students used the tracking room,

Kern and Marcus Melancon, presented a debate

sound booth, control room and

on the “Pros & Cons of Medical Marijuana

computer lab to create original

Legalization in Illinois.” Twenty-one participants

songs, which they shared with

attended the presentation, including employees

each other at the end of the camp.

of the Joliet Police Department, Rosecrance Health

They made their music using loops

Gateway, Thresholds, TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safer Communities) and Serenity House, among others. The presentation conferred

instructor Alby Odum taught 11

and MIDI (musical instrument

Network, Stepping Stones Treatment Center, Will County Probation Office, Catholic Charities,

DARA Director Jeff Jaskowiak and

Pictured above are junior Jilan Delk, senior Skyler Kern, SAC program director Larry Dunbar, junior Marcus Melancon, and Gloria Bloodsaw, the outreach coordinator for Gateway Alcohol and Drug Treatment Center.

Senior Sandra Jankowski was unable to present her portion of the debate due to illness.

digital interface). They also created a radio jingle. The camp began in 2011 as a way to connect with local high schoolers interested in

continuing education units.

digital audio recording arts.

RA D IO LO GY S T UD E N T S G R A D UAT E AT N O RTHWE S TE RN

RE CRE ATION & SPOR T MAN AG EM ENT PARTN ER S WITH PROCONNECT PRO G R AM

Class of 2017 radiology students Stella Butuso, Alex Eungard, Nicole Silkowski and Rene Ruiz (pictured at left with interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Elizabeth Davies) graduated in June in the Pritzker Auditorium of the Feinberg Pavilion at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Ruiz received the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JCERT) Clinical Excellence Award, presented annually by the program supervisors and training faculty to the graduating student who demonstrated the greatest excellence in the radiologic sciences.

USF’s Recreation & Sport Management program is the educational partner for the ProConnect professional mentoring program, sponsored by the Illinois Park & Recreation Association. The program features a unique, multi-tiered approach in which early career, mid-level career and seasoned/retired

MEG A N POW ELL RE C E I V E S E A RLY C A RE E R AWARD F ROM MATHE MATI CAL B IO S CIEN CES IN S T I T U T E

professionals participate.

Faculty member Megan Powell was selected for an Early Career Award from the Mathematical Biosciences Institute (MBI) at Ohio State University to participate in their Infectious Disease Dynamics emphasis program in spring of 2018. The award is intended for non-tenured faculty to be in residence at MBI for a semester to take advantage of what the institute has to offer to advance research in mathematical biology. They offer computing resources, regular workshops, collaboration with MBI faculty/researchers and access to academic journals.

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Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine

USF aumnus Luke Wyss ’16, a fitness supervisor at Warrenville Park District, is highly involved with the ProConnect program, serving as a mentor and board member.

CO LLEG E O F BU S I N E S S & H E A LT H A D M I N I S T R AT ION

Spotlight: Stephen Cservenyak ’13 (B.S. in Marketing)

With a mom from a small, western-Iowa

farm town and a dad from the south

name for marketing purposes. As much as he would have loved to

Like many music artists do, Cservenyak found it best to change his

suburbs of Chicago, Stephen Cservenyak

keep his real name, he decided to go by Stephen “Neal”—Neal being his

’13 grew up listening to a good mix of

grandpa’s middle name—to make things easier. (“Even a Google search,”

country, Christian, hair metal, hip-hop

he joked.) The fact that his grandparents exposed him to country music

and top 40 music. It seems, however,

at an early age made the choice a fitting and special one.

that country stole his heart, as he now

takes the country music scene by storm

continue to tour and put out new music. He put out five new songs this

as “Stephen Neal”—the front-man in his

year in an effort to show how he’s evolving and to share the new direction

own rising band.

he’s heading with his music. He hopes that each new set of songs he

His journey toward music was quite unexpected. It wasn’t until his

Cservenyak has a lot of things going on right now and plans to

releases will be different from the last. Fans can catch one of his shows in

freshman year at USF that he started teaching himself how to play guitar,

any number of locations.

sing, and write music. Though he was a marketing major, he eventually

took some Digital Audio Recording Arts classes, too, which he feels was a

over the country—from Texas to New York to Utah, and everywhere

blessing because “it helped me get started on the path to realizing that

in between—has made me smile and think, ‘Man I’m getting somewhere!’”

music wasn’t just a hobby,” Cservenyak said.

said Cservenyak.

After graduating with a B.S. in Marketing, Cservenyak went and got a

“real job” and continued to learn business strategies and sales tactics

“Looking at my schedule of shows this year and seeing nearly 80 all

How can current Saints and friends of USF follow Cservenyak’s lead?

“It’s a tough question because there are so many different paths for

for a successful global company. It was through the things he learned in

people to become successful in music. I would tell people that if you

school and developed in his job that he was able to find success in his

really want to break through and make some noise, to be prepared

music career.

to work harder and longer than you ever have before. Be prepared to be

“I was very fortunate to have some great professors at St. Francis

disappointed, offended, discouraged and beaten down often. Accept

like Richard Vaughn, Steve Morrissette and Jim Haeffner, who always

that you will fail but don’t accept failure. But the two most important

pushed two things: stay organized and think outside the box,” said

things—just like almost anything in life—are 1) to surround yourself

Cservenyak. “It’s been those two things—especially thinking against what

with great people that truly care about you (and care about them

might be standard practice—that have helped to give me a leg up

in return), and 2) don’t just sit and talk about it…do it. Be truthful to your

in this business as an independent. Ultimately, I am a one-man team

work. Let it be full of passion that will make others feel the same way.

on the business side of it, going against artists that have labels, manage-

That’s how you gain fans and followers that will be a part of your journey.”

ment companies, promoters, etc. You really DO need to work smarter and not just work harder.”

As this magazine is being

printed, the Alumni & Family

Cservenyak started playing live in 2015 with a band that consisted

almost entirely of former or then-current Saints. But as time went

Relations Office will be

on and the path was “head to Nashville or call it quits,” the group split up.

hosting a private concert

Only Jeff Glasscock ’17 followed Cservenyak and still plays lead guitar

by Stephen Neal on the

for him today.

Quad at USF. The opening

act will include music by

Moving to Nashville, where he’s lived for over a year now, was pivotal,

according to Cservenyak.

recent DARA graduate

Shannon Patino ’17. Photos to

“Being close to Nashville has been huge on a lot of different levels,”

he said. “First, it just shows people that you are committed, which

come in the next Engaging

helps them open up to working with you. Second, there are only a few

Mind & Spirit. To learn

cities in the country that have the quality musicians you need to work

more about the band and

with in the studio and onstage, in order to start setting yourself apart.

upcoming tour dates, visit

Nashville is, of course, one of them.”

stephennealmusic.com.

A Year of Service / 2017–2018

9

CO LLEG E O F E D U CAT I O N

Grants Awarded to USF’s On the Table Participants In May, the University of St. Francis hosted an “On the Table” discussion

turn the day’s conversations into action. Three grant proposals submitted

at the university’s main campus. On the Table is an annual forum,

as a result of USF’s event were accepted, and each received one of the

sponsored by The Chicago Community Trust. It is designed to elevate

coveted $2,500 awards:

civic conversation, foster new relationships and inspire collaborative

• Building Peace in Joliet Schools:

action across the region.

Basic and follow-up trainings

in restorative practices that will be

Seventy-five community members from local organizations including

Mayor of Joliet Bob O’Dekirk, Joliet Police Chief Brian Benton, Joliet

used to educate Joliet teachers

Junior College President Judy Mitchell, and representatives from

at the University of St. Francis.

United Way, Joliet School Districts 86 and 204, the Sisters of St. Francis

(Submitted by Tracy Spesia,

of Mary Immaculate, Habitat for Humanity, the Joliet Public Library,

University of St. Francis)

Our Lady of Angels, Harvey Brooks Foundation, Joliet City Center

• Farm to Table Community

Partnership, Will County Executive’s office, Cathedral Area Preservation

Program: Implementation of a

Association, Center for Disabilities Services, Spanish Community Center,

farm-to-table program at the

Center for Disabilities Services, NAACP, Cathedral of St. Raymond,

Center for Disability Service in

Big Brother Big Sisters, YMCA, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Guardian Angel

Joliet, including an indoor/outdoor classroom maintained by individuals

Community Services, Joliet Community Hospice and the Will County

with developmental disabilities in collaboration with community

Community Foundation participated in meaningful roundtable conversa-

partnerships. (Submitted by Gina Wysocki, Center for Disability Services)

tions during the USF event. They explored the ways in which they could

• Joliet Area Little Free Library Community Project: Installing 12 little

collaborate to make the community stronger, safer and more dynamic.

libraries for residents who may otherwise not be able to access Joliet’s

public library. (Submitted by Catherine Yanikoski Adamowski [above],

Ideas generated were centered on themes like education, jobs,

diversity, safety, sustainability, and community service and resource-

Joliet Public Library)

sharing. After the event, participants were given the opportunity to apply

Details about the projects, including the video proposals, can be found at

for $1,000 and $2,500 grants called “Acting Up Awards”—designed to

onthetable.com/acting-up-award-winners.

C HARACT ER ED U C AT I O N CO N F E RE N C E H E LD AT US F In July, USF’s College of Education and the Will County Character Coalition honored the 2017 Illinois Schools of Character at the Character Education for the Next Generation Conference. Schools of Character are caring schools where character is taught, celebrated and lived in service to the school and community, while also improving student academics and behavior. The conference’s 56 participants included superintendents, associate superintendents, principals, vice-principals and elementary, junior high and high school teachers.

Conference presentations included “Senate Bill 100—Bullying and

Restorative Justice,” presented by Dr. Joyce Kleinitis, assistant professor and Coordinator of the Educational Leadership program; “Creating a climate of character with PBIS,” presented by Dr. Mike Rolinitis, principal of Mokena Junior High; “The Eleven Principles of Effective Character Education,” presented by Jo Ann Britton and Madonna Murphy, Illinois School of Character evaluators; and “Social Media and Cyberbullying,” presented by Megan Brooks of the State’s Attorney’s Office. The three keynote speakers were from the award-winning schools and district, including Superintendent Matt Klosterman and principals Theresa Gosinski and Beth Dolack, who shared the unique character building initiatives they have implemented at their schools.

10

Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine

Pictured: Joyce Kleinitis; Madonna Murphy; Matt Klosterman, superintendent of Belleville District 118, with the Illinois District of Character Plaque (Belleville is the first District of Character in Illinois); Beth Dolack, principal of St. Mary of the Angels School in Chicago (the first Catholic school of the Archdiocese of Chicago to be a School of Character); Theresa Gosinski, Principal of Freeburg Primary Center in Freeburg, Ill. and JoAnn Britton, Illinois School of Character Evaluator.

LEAC H CO L L EG E O F N U RS I N G

LCON to Celebrate “Being Franciscan” at Guardian Angel Hall St. Clare Day will be held for LCON students, faculty

TH E DAY’S ACTI VI TI E S W I L L I N CLUD E …

and staff at the St. Clare Campus on October 2,

• Lots of raffle baskets • A live broadcast by WCSF 88.7 FM • A religious medal giveaway, with USF’s Sr. Mary Elizabeth Imler and Fr. Terry Deffenbaugh appearing as St. Clare and St. Francis • Stethoscope covers, T-shirts, Gideon Bibles and other giveaways for attendees • Plarn mat-making for the homeless • A “Pound Party”—to enter the event, you must bring a pound of food for those in need, to be collected by Northern Illinois Food Bank

during Feast of St. Francis Week. The event, coordinated by LCON faculty member Lynnann Murphy, will be a fun, outdoor activity to engage nursing students and faculty, build community, and educate students about St. Clare and St. Francis. The event is open to LCON students, faculty, and USF employees who work at the St. Clare Campus. An RSVP is necessary to attend. To help or donate items, contact Murphy at x3589.

• Presence of a military nurse recruiter, to talk about the role of military nurses • A “Buy a Duck” activity to win an NCLEX review book • Informational stations staffed by LCON faculty, University Ministry, the Student Nurses’ Association, and members of USF’s Sustainability Committee • Food, ice cream and games for attendees who RSVP • Much more!

PMHN P S T U D EN T S PA R T I C I PAT E I N T R A I NI N G

S ON OF LCON I N S TRUCTO R G IVES S T. CL ARE CAM PUS A FACE L IF T

Students who will be graduating this winter with an MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health, or will be completing a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-master’s certificate, came to the

Minooka High School senior Jack

St. Clare campus in July for training in Rational

Murphy, son of LCON faculty

Emotive Behavior Therapy. The training was provided

member Lynnann Murphy, recently

by Terry London from the Chicago Institute of REBT,

gave St. Clare Campus a facelift as

Inc. Activities included a talk by a recruiter from

part of his Boy Scouts Eagle Award.

Wexford Health about working in the prison system,

The Eagle Award is a project that

and a presentation by a group from Carle Health

represents the culmination of all a

System about interviewing and negotiation strategies.

scout has learned and gained through the Boy Scouts, according to Lynnann. Jack had to plan,

At the summer MSN Scholarship Day in July, nursing students presented their final projects in the Turk Theater. During break time, they gathered for a photo with LCON faculty and staff on the Tower Hall stairs.

USF N URS E S ME N TOR HI LLCRE ST HI GH S CHOOL STUDE N TS LCON has developed a partnership with Hillcrest High School to bring awareness to and prepare students for health science careers. Anatomy & Physiology and honors Biology students from Hillcrest attended a forum to receive better insight into the healthcare-related careers. USF’s Dr. Bertha Paul, assistant professor of nursing at USF, and Leia Levy, director of USF’s Radiation Therapy program, presented to students alongside other individuals from Hillcrest, about relevant topics.

Said Paul, “I introduced USF’s nursing programs

and talked with the students about the importance of math and science in health careers. I also spoke

finance and recruit other scouts and friends to help with his project, as well as go through a rigorous approval process with the Boy Scouts. For the project, he worked closely with his mentor, USF’s Al Scheuber, to sand and replace wood on the old Guardian Angel orphanage benches and picnic tables, install Leach College of Nursing signage outside the building, spread decorative rock around the campus buildings and plant flowers and foliage in decorative pots. Thanks, Jack!

about the individual and additional support systems that are available to nursing students at USF to help them be successful in nursing school.”

A Year of Service / 2017–2018

11

THE F I G HT I N G S A I N T S

USF Athletics Lands Highest-Ever Finish with No. 10 Ranking in Learfield Cup Standings Landing 11 bids to NAIA National Championship

events amongst its 22 teams during the

Directors’ Cup standings for the athletic department over the past eight

2016–17 season earned University of St. Francis

years. It marked the seventh time during that span that USF improved over

its highest-ever finish in the Learfield Sports

the previous season. Last year, St. Francis gained a 37th-place slot.

Directors’ Cup NAIA standings. The Saints bested

The Saints earned their 560.25-point total with four top 10 finishes—men’s

their previous mark of 24th place set two years

cross country (2nd), women’s basketball (3rd), women’s indoor track &

ago by earning a No. 10 billing this season.

field (4th), women’s outdoor track & field (8th)—and 11th-place finishes

from softball and men’s indoor track & field, a 17th-place showing

“This is a tremendous accomplishment for

all of our programs,” said USF director of athletics

The top-10 finish continued a rapid progression in the Learfield Sports

from women’s volleyball and a No. 21 finish from women’s cross country.

Dave Laketa. “It speaks very highly of the work that our 440-plus

USF also scored in men’s outdoor track & field.

student-athletes and all of our coaches have put in not only this past year,

but over the past four-to-five years in terms of student-athletes preparing

between the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics

themselves to compete at an elite level and coaches recruiting top-caliber

(NACDA) and USA Today. Points are awarded based on each institution’s

students both in the classroom and on the playing field to get us to this

finish at national championship events in up to 12 sports—six women’s

point. And, most importantly, we did it without lessening our academic

and six men’s.

The Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup was developed as a joint effort

standards. At the end of the spring semester, our student-athletes boasted a cumulative 3.15 grade point average.”

FIGH T IN G S A IN T S RO U N D U P

A. J. PI ER Z YNSK I TO SPE AK AT B ROWN & G OLD NIG H T

Seventeen of 19 eligible USF athletic programs earned

Steve Brooks, the fifth-winnin-

NAIA Scholar-Team awards for 2016-17. Teams must

gest active coach in NAIA

boast a combined 3.00-or-higher GPA over the past

Division II, has been named the

For the second time in as many

new head women’s basketball

years, a World Series catcher

year to earn the distinction.

coach at USF. Brooks comes

will serve as the featured speaker

Two-time 2017 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field

to Joliet following an 18-year

at USF’s annual Brown & Gold

All-American Raven Kelly was named the NAIA

stint at Indiana Wesleyan

Night. A.J. Pierzynski, a member of

Midwest Region Outdoor Field Athlete of the Year in

University, where he won two NAIA Division II national

the 2005 White Sox’ world

June by the United States Track & Field and Cross

championships (2006–07, 2012–13) and one NCCAA

championship team, will be the

Country Coaches Association.

national title (2001–02). He holds an overall record

guest of honor at the 41st annual

of 469-133 and has been awarded five national coach

athletic department fundraiser,

of the year awards.

which will take place on Nov. 8.

A two-time NAIA All-American, Cam Knudsen added

The night begins with a cash bar at

CoSIDA Academic All-America College Division Track & Field/Cross Country Second-Team honors to his

Luke Tanaka has joined the athletic department as

5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at

resume in June.

director of athletic communications.

7:00 and the program at 8:00.

USF softball player Kayla Garcia helped lead Puerto

Amy Polhemus has been named assistant men’s and

Rico to a bronze medal at the 2017 WBSC Junior

women’s cross country and track & field coach.

Tickets are $60 each and available

Women’s Softball World Championships in Clearwater, Fla. this summer.

12

Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine

at gofightingsaints.com.

FAI TH, MISSI O N & DI VER SI T Y

Local High School Students Pay It Forward Through Service Twenty-six high school students from Joliet

USF administrators/team leaders Jeff Chiapello,

Catholic Academy, Joliet West High School,

Damon Sloan and Mollie Rockafellow; Hands

program, many students indicated they

Lincoln-Way High School, Plainfield High

of Hope, led by USF’s Michele O’Boyle; Our

had heard about it from their parents and

School and Providence Catholic High School

Lady of Angels Retirement Home, led by USF’s

decided it was a great way to get their required

participated in USF’s Pay It Forward summer

Sr. Mary Elizabeth Imler, Joe Wysocki, Janine

high school service hours as a fun summer

service initiative in July.

Hicks and Allison Heard; and the Will County

project. All reports indicate that goal, and

Forest Preserve, led by Eric Ruiz, Kylie Mussay,

more, was achieved. Special thanks to program

breakfast, followed by travel to a service

Elisabeth Miramontes, Eloise Billups and

director and champion, USF Chaplain

site, then lunch and reflection back at USF.

Alan Christensen.

Fr. Terry Deffenbaugh.

The four-day program includes a daily

When asked why they signed up for the

Worksites included Habitat for Humanity, led by

Pay It Forward participants work hard at numerous community service sites.

A Year of Service / 2017–2018

13

G IVIN G BAC K DO NO R NEWS

USF Social Work Professor Dr. Billie Terrell Creates Graduate Student Scholarship University of St. Francis professor

and working as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Illinois and

emerita Dr. Billie Terrell will continue to

USF until becoming a full-time faculty member at USF in 1985.

inspire students in the field of social work

through the establishment of the Terrell

board of several community agencies, including the Guardian Angel Home

Multicultural MSW Scholarship at USF.

and the Center of Correctional Concerns. She currently serves as the vice

Terrell is an alumna, graduating in 1977

Terrell continued to serve her community by participating on the

president of the Will County Board of Health.

with her bachelor’s degree in social work

from then-College of St. Francis. Terrell

the support she had received during her career. “Giving back is the way we

earned her MSW from the University of

earn what was given to us,” commented Terrell. “I have had tremendous

Giving back to the university was important to Terrell because of

Illinois and doctorate from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. She

support over the years that has enhanced my personal and professional

then went on to practice medical and psychiatric social work extensively

life. I know the financial struggles our students experience trying to earn

at Silver Cross and St. Joseph hospitals in Joliet, Ill. Other career

their degrees and to better their lives. I hope with our alumni support,

achievements include opening her own practice for multicultural families

this scholarship is available for many years.”

SUPPO RT T H E FR A N C I S A NN UA L FU N D BY PURCH A S IN G A G A RD E N FL AG O R B RICK PAV E R Purchase a USF garden flag for $25 and proudly display your love for USF! You can also participate in USF’s long-time brick paver sale, so you can leave your legacy along the Quad walkway between Tower Hall and the Motherhouse. Buy a paver and current Saints can literally “follow your footsteps!”

Get more details on the flags and pavers or order online at stfrancis. edu/giving/francis-annual-fund.

In 2016, USF donors showed their gratitude for the opportunities they’ve experienced through USF and helped us raise $80,000 on Day of Giving. If you are grateful for your USF experience, share your blessings with the next generation of Saints.

You have 24 hours on Oct. 13 to PASS ON YOUR BLESSINGS! HOW? On Friday, Oct. 13, visit stfrancis.edu/dayofgiving to make your donation OR call the Institutional Advancement Office at 815-740-4287 to process your gift. stfrancis.edu/dayofgiving

14

Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine

INTERN ATIO NA L P R O G R A MS

USF Establishes 4+1 Agreement with Xingzhi College in China

S TAY I N G CO N N ECT E D A LU MNI NE W S

Spotlight: Jeff Glasscock ’17 (B.S. in Digital Audio Recording Arts)

USF has established a 4+1 agreement with Xingzhi College (part of

It only took walking into Brandolino’s

Zhejiang Normal University) in Jinhua, China. The 4+1 designation

music store in Joliet at the age of six for

means that students will complete their undergraduate degree in China

alumnus Jeff Glasscock to become

and will then enroll in a Master’s degree program at USF. International

infatuated with music. It started with a love

Programs Office (IPO) director Angie Maffeo recently traveled to the

for the drums, and then guitar. Within a

university to meet with Xingzhi College faculty and administrators to

few years, it was clear that music would

discuss enrolling Xingzhi College graduates in USF’s M.S. in Teaching and

always be part of his life.

Learning (with TESOL concentration) program. Through this program,

Glasscock currently plays music and

students will have the opportunity to study in Joliet at USF for a year

composes/records music full-time in

and graduate with a master’s degree and certificate to teach English to

Nashville, Tenn. as part of the on-the-rise Stephen Neal Band. He says the

speakers of other languages. The program is designed to operate in

experience has been incredible and that he’s learned a lot while living

a cohort model and is open to both international and domestic students.

in Nashville over the past few years and touring with some of the biggest

names in country music. He’s also met some of the most influential

Coincidentally, a USF ELAP and MBA alumnus, Zelu “Michael” Hu,

received his bachelor’s degree in music from this very same university.

people in the music industry, for which he feels very grateful. Being a part

Hu was very involved with USF’s Department of Music & Performing

of the DARA program at USF most certainly helped Glasscock to get

Arts during his stay in the U.S., singing with the Schola Cantorum and

where he is.

performing both opera and piano pieces in campus talent shows.

“In Nashville, almost every single person you meet is in the music

industry in some way. Since I have a degree in audio engineering, I have credentials, which helps when I am getting clients to work with me.

I learned so much at St. Francis about recording and working with artists and it translates perfectly into the real working world in my industry,” he said.

When he’s not working with the band, Glasscock writes his own

music, focusing on top-40 pop style and country songs, as well as solo acoustic pieces, which he admits he tends to keep to himself.

He loves all kinds of music, but reveals that his biggest influences to date include Andy McKee, Antoine Dufour and an experimental band from California called CHON. He is influenced by these artists due to their incredible creativity and the complexity of their music.

In five years, Glasscock hopes to still be living in Nashville, with his

own house and a personal studio up and running. He loves touring, so he hopes to continue doing that as well.

When asked for words of wisdom to pass along to current Saints

and alumni, Glasscock shared some sage advice: “Never stop writing and learning. If you are an engineer, be a fly-on-the-wall in every single session you can. It doesn’t matter if you only learn one new trick or nothing at all—nothing can replace experience. If you are a writer, write.

Angie Maffeo gives a presentation to students at Xingzhi College.

You have to write a hundred bad songs before you get one good one.

How does one get to play Carnegie Hall? Practice. And finally, don’t get discouraged when you hear or see someone who is better than you.

The only way to grow in this industry is to work together, make connections and surround yourself with people more talented and further ahead than yourself.”

A Year of Service / 2017–2018

15

STAYIN G CO NNEC TED A LU MN I N E W S

Campus Tour The University of St. Francis campus has

stfrancis.edu/hcrw

changed dramatically in the last few years including many beautification efforts as well as our new St. Clare Campus, the Plaster Center (downtown), and the new science building currently under construction. It is a campus and university filled with both beauty and Franciscan spirit. Come and take a tour with us and see all the amazing changes happening at USF! Led by Student Ambassadors.

4:30 p.m. in San Damiano Hall (Motherhouse, 3rd floor) Complimentary Doctoral Alumni Reunion Did you receive your doctorate degree from

Hospitality Room

USF? Please join us as we gather and network

Are you looking for a place to meet your

with fellow doctoral alumni and faculty. Stay

classmates or rest your feet? Stop by our

for The Fortunate Sons, a Creedence

Alumnae Softball Game

Hospitality Room, grab a snack, relax, mingle

Clearwater Revival tribute band, immediately

Bring your family and friends and join us for this

with friends, and view our alumni photos and

following, and enjoy the evening at your

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

annual alumnae vs. Lady Saints softball

artifacts. Enjoy your time in a room designed in

alma mater. A buffet dinner will be served.

S A T U R D AY, O C T O B E R 7

game! Spend the afternoon with fellow

honor of our alumni.

6 p.m. in Classrooms A&B

Annual Alumni Meeting

alumnae for this slow-pitch game before the

12–6 p.m. in the Alumni Gathering Room

(Motherhouse, 3rd floor)

Want to learn about the Alumni Association or

tailgate and football game. Hosted by Coach

(Motherhouse, 2nd Floor)

Alumni and faculty are complimentary

get more involved? Join our alumni networks

Amanda Jensen.

Complimentary

Guests $15

and Board of Directors for the annual meeting

9 a.m. at the Inwood Softball Complex, Joliet

(open to all alumni) to listen as programming

Complimentary

USF History in Photos

Distinguished Alumni Dinner &

is discussed and implemented, and bring your

Register by Sept. 22 for a free game shirt

Lots of great memories will be on display!

Awards Ceremony

Reminisce with old pictures while USF archivist

All are invited to join us for dinner as we honor

ideas. Networks that are meeting include: African American Alumni Network (4A),

Homecoming Tailgate & Football Game

Gloria Hendrickson will be on hand to assist

this year’s honored year alumni (classes of

Business Alumni Network (BAN), Education

Join the USF family for our Homecoming

you with questions and requests. Find pictures

2012, 2007, 2002, 1997, 1992, 1987, 1982, 1977,

Alumni Network (EAN), and Mass

tailgate and football game! Fun for all ages,

of you and your classmates on campus and

1972, 1967 and before) and our alumni award

Communication Alumni Network (MCAN).

enjoy free food, music, giveaways, children’s

obtain your own personal copies of any photos

winners presented by USF President Arvid C.

7:30 a.m. breakfast; 8 a.m. meeting

activities and other great fun before the

of interest.

Johnson, Ph.D. Winners are selected by college

San Damiano Hall (Motherhouse, 3rd floor)

big game. Stop by the alumni table for your

2–4 p.m. in Uno Lounge

based on their outstanding professional and

Complimentary

FREE T-shirt.

(Tower Hall, 1st Floor)

personal successes and/or involvement in civic,

11 a.m. Tailgate (Sponsored by the Alumni

Complimentary

cultural, and charitable activities. Want to

Alumni Baseball Game

& Family Relations Office and Student

Join Coach Brian Michalak and participate or

Activities Board)

Football Alumni Reunion

watch from the dugout while the older alumni

1 p.m. Game: USF vs. Missouri University

Join Coach Curry and other Saints football

6 p.m. in San Damiano Hall

take on the younger alumni. You’ll also meet

of Science and Technology

alumni and friends after the Homecoming

(Motherhouse, 3rd Floor)

the current Fighting Saints team. Morning

Memorial Stadium, Joliet

football game for food, drinks and camaraderie!

$15 per person / Honored year alumni and

includes batting practice, home run derby,

Complimentary

We’ll celebrate the past, present and future of

Award winners are complimentary

nominate a worthy candidate? Visit stfrancis.

infield/outfield practice and the game. Bring

the Fighting Saints football team.

your families to watch from the stands!

4 p.m. at McBride’s on 52, Joliet

9 a.m. at Gillespie Field, Joliet

Complimentary

Complimentary Register by Sept. 22 for a free game shirt

16

Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine

edu/alumni/awards.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS President

Keith Schomig ’13 ’17 President-Elect

Caroline Portlock ’02, ’04 Past President

2017 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENTS NAMED

Shawn Walsh ’00, ’15 Vice President for Constitution

Jason Whiteside, J.D., ’00 Vice President for Programs

Erika Martinez ’11, ’15 Vice President for Scholarships

Karen Ciarlette ’94, ’97 Vice President for Young Alumni & Student Engagement

Candice Quinerly ’10

PRESIDENTIAL ALUMNI AWARD Wilhelmine Vidmar '68 B.S. Biology Adjunct Faculty Member at Joliet Junior College, Bridal Seamstress at White Satin Bridal, and St. Francis Alumni Board Member (and Past President) since 1973

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES ALUMNI AWARD Robert Obrohta '88 B.A. Political Science Executive Director of the Tennessee College Access and Success Network

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION AWARD DeWitt Buchanan '89 BBA Finance Managing Director at Safe Harbor Retirement Consultants, LLC

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ALUMNI AWARD Timothy Reilly '11 M.S. Educational Leadership Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum at Lincoln-Way Community High School District 210

LEACH COLLEGE OF NURSING ALUMNI AWARD Annette Mattea '13 DNP Nursing Associate Professor in the Leach College of Nursing at the University of St. Francis

Secretary

Wihelmine Vidmar ’68 Sisters of St. Francis Representative

Sr. Lois Prebil, OSF ’61 Alumni & Family Relations Office Administrator(s)

Aubrey Knight ’04, ’07, Director Ashleigh Dillon ’13, ’15, Assistant Director Student Representative(s)

Skyler Kern Ava O’Connor

GENERAL BOARD MEMBERS

Matthew Bisek ’10

Find out more about the awards and recipients at stfrancis.edu/alumni/awards.

Patricia Bracken ’73, ’86, ’94 Judith M. Bulat ’72 Danielle Ciechanski ’08

The Fortunate Sons—Creedence Clearwater

S U N D AY, O C T O B E R 8

Campus Tour

Sharon Dewart ’78

Revival Tribute Band

Alumni Memorial Mass

The University of St. Francis campus has

Elmer F. Eddy ’80

This tribute band brings the ultimate “CCR”

All alumni and friends are invited to worship as

changed dramatically in the last few years

Jacqueline A. Edmonson ’63, ’88, ’94

experience to the stage. Using original vintage

a community of faith as we celebrate our

including many beautification efforts as well as

Laura Eggert ’09, ’13

gear and instruments, great costumes and

homecoming and offer thanks for our lives and

our new St. Clare Campus, the Plaster Center

H. Richard Hagen, J.D., ’90

spot-on musical ability, The Fortunate Sons will

remember those alumni and friends who have

(downtown), and the new science building

Linda M. Kilroy ’72

instantly conjure up the full experience of the

gone before us. Fr. Terry Deffenbaugh, the

currently under construction. It is a campus and

Eric Lawhead ’07

best CCR songs and keep fans engaged and

university’s chaplain, will be our celebrant.

university filled with both beauty and

Frances H. Naal ’58

dancing all night! Light snacks will be provided

9 a.m. in St. Joseph Chapel

Franciscan spirit. Come and take a tour with us

Jan Novotny ’67

and drinks will be available at the bar.

(Motherhouse, 3rd Floor)

and see all the amazing changes happening at

L. Scott Pekol ’99

8 p.m. in San Damiano Hall

Complimentary

USF! Led by Student Ambassadors.

Alan Randolph ’07

Noon starting in San Damiano Hall

Corey Richardson ’09

(Motherhouse, 3rd Floor) $15 per person / Honored year alumni and

Assisian Club Brunch

(Motherhouse, 3rd floor)

Susan Rogina ’94, ’99

award winners are complimentary

Honoring the classes of 1967 and before, we

Complimentary

Anne-Christine Tompkins ’14

STAY IN TOUCH

welcome you and a guest for a lovely brunch to Young Alumni Night Out

celebrate your reunion. We will be inducting

T H U R S D AY, N O V E M B E R 2

Bring your friends and join fellow alumni for a

the 1967 class into the Assisian Club—a

Volleyball Alumnae Reunion

fun night out at McBride’s on 52 in Joliet.

distinguished honor specifically for the 50th

Join Coach Currier and fellow alumnae and

Register by Sept. 29 for a $5 drink voucher!

reunion class, while celebrating all alumnae

their families for the last game of the season!

Hosted by the Young Alumni Committee of the

who graduated 50+ years ago. Join us as USF

Pizza will be served.

Alumni Association Board.

President Arvid C. Johnson, Ph.D., hosts this

7 p.m. game followed by 8 p.m. pizza party

8 p.m. at McBride’s on 52, Joliet

event in honor of you—our special guests.

2nd floor balcony of the Sullivan

10 a.m. in San Damiano Hall

Recreation Center

(Motherhouse, 3rd floor)

Complimentary

Complimentary

Send news and class notes to alumni@stfrancis.edu or call 877-811-ALUM.

To read about what other alumni and old friends have been doing, visit stfrancis.edu/alumni/success-stories.

Alumnae complimentary; Guests $15

A Year of Service / 2017–2018

17

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE P A I D UNIVERSITY OF ST. FRANCIS

500 Wilcox Street Joliet, Illinois 60435

The University of St. Francis was founded and is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate.

Admissions event information or registration 800-735-7500 • admissions@stfrancis.edu stfrancis.edu/visit OR /openhouse Alumni event information or registration 877-811-ALUM • alumni@stfrancis.edu stfrancis.edu/alumni/events Athletics information or game schedules 815-740-3464 • gofightingsaints.com USF Art Gallery exhibitions 815-740-3787 • jmoore@stfrancis.edu Gallery Hours: Monday–Thursday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., and by appointment.

See calendar of upcoming events inside.

For information about all other university events and activities: 800-735-7500 • stfrancis.edu

S T F R A N CI S.EDU