Falcon Features Winter 2022-23

THE MAGAZINE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-RIVER FALLS | WINTER 2022-23

Falcon FEATURES

Student

Opportunity Shared Worldwide FALCON FEATURES WINTER 2022-23

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brand revitalized At the University of Wisconsin-River Fall’s annual fall opening meeting on August 29, Chancellor Maria Gallo announced to faculty and staff a revitalized institutional brand. To ensure the brand reflected the diverse experiences and voices of UWRiver Falls students, alumni, external partners, faculty, staff, community and business leaders, Gallo and her team engaged over 1,000 stakeholders using surveys, focus groups and interviews. The insights gained in the months-long process led to the new brand being grounded in authentic stories of how UW-River Falls provides extraordinary opportunities in an inclusive environment, every single day. It also led to the institution’s new visual identity, which incorporates the UW-River Falls Falcon and symbolizes the energy and vibrancy of the campus. Over the next year, the new branded look will be incorporated throughout campus and university communications. To learn more about the tremendous opportunities at UWRiver Falls and the refreshed brand, visit go.uwrf.edu/ourbrand.

See the video.

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in this issue

PROFile - Dale Gallenberg..................... 8

Art Therapy - Ann Lawton. .......................... 12

Esports - Dylan Gentilcore.................. 20

Donor Profile - The Belisles........... 26

Sections Up Front...............................................4 Along the South Fork....................... 5 Falcon Sports................................... 20 Alma Matters.....................................28 FALCON FALCON FEATURES FEATURESWINTER WINTER 2022-23 2022-23

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up front

WITH CHANCELLOR MARIA GALLO

FALCON FEATURES Volume 70, Winter 2022-23 University of Wisconsin-River Falls 410 S. 3rd St. River Falls, WI 54022

Where do I start? 2022 has been filled with milestones and momentum toward growth and success for UW-River Falls. This issue of Falcon Features tells our story through pinnacle moments, moments grounded in opportunity.

Our Science and Technology Innovation Center (SciTech) project is on track for a spring 2023 groundbreaking. We have received state funding toward construction as well as generous donor support to realize our vision for a collaborative teaching and learning environment for faculty, students and our business and industry partners.

Milestone gifts are also moving the UWRF Dairy Pilot Plant renovation toward completion after nearly a decade of dedicated effort. The plant, now known as the Wuethrich Family/Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence, will serve as a unique, hands-on teaching facility for students interested in dairy and food science careers.

We greatly appreciate the commitment of UWRF’s generous donors as we grow to meet the needs of our future Falcons!

We are taking bold steps in recruiting students to join the Falcon family with an exciting rebranding campaign. This rebrand represents the university’s current success, its aspirations for the future, and the determination of our Falcons to accept challenges and know they are limitless! You’ll start to see the new branded look on billboards, in our marketing materials and campus communications over the next year.

Another exciting marketing opportunity is The College Tour, a TV series streamed on Amazon Prime and a host of online venues. Ten UWRF students will tell our story through their experiences. The UW-River Falls segment is set to air in early 2023. Stay tuned for details, it’s sure to be an unforgettable story!

Personally, a highlight of fall semester was my inauguration as the university’s 20th chancellor. I am humbled to have been honored in such meaningful ways, including a Day of Engagement with campus and the community. It was a privilege to be surrounded by many colleagues, friends and family members.

Sincerely,

Maria

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715-425-3505 or 1-877-258-6647 falconfeatures@uwrf.edu www.uwrf.edu/alumni

Falcon Features is published annually by the University Advancement and University Communications and Marketing offices and the Alumni Association.

Generating content is a team effort.

EDITORIAL TEAM Assistant Chancellor, University Advancement Rick Foy Executive Editor Dina Fassino Creative Manager Tony Bredahl, ’86 Copy Editor Deb Toftness Feature Writer Brianna Samson, ’13 Photographer Pat Deninger

along the south fork

UWRF AT A GLANCE

Transformational gift establishes Wuethrich Family/ Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls Dairy Pilot Plant will now be known as the Wuethrich Family/Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence.

The Wuethrich Family Foundation and Grassland Dairy Products, Inc., of Greenwood, dairy industry leaders and longtime UWRF strategic partners, announced an additional $475,000 commitment toward UWRF’s Dairy Pilot Plant Renovation Project, bringing their cumulative support to $1 million, earning naming rights for the facility.

“For the future of dairy processing in Wisconsin to advance, innovation and modernization are essential,” said Trevor Wuethrich, president of Grassland Dairy Products, Inc. “We regard our donation as an investment in UWRF – and the future of our industry – by providing students with real life experiences. We are honored to have our names associated with this facility, which has earned its status as a dairy center of excellence.”

Combined with the support of state and university resources and many other dairy industry partners, the latest WuethrichGrassland contribution allows UWRF to complete the four-year, $8.5 million renovation and provide its students with state-of-the-art experience in the development, production and marketing of cheeses, ice cream and other dairy products.

“The Wuethrich family and Grassland Dairy have been committed partners since we initiated plans for the dairy plant renovation more than 10 years ago,” said Michelle Farner, director of UWRF dairy production. “We cannot adequately thank them for the transformational gift which

ensures not only the completion of the project but the creation of the Wuethrich Family/ Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence, the first in northwestern Wisconsin. Students and industry professionals alike will benefit from the educational investments made by our industry partners.”

“We are grateful for the remarkable support of the Wuethrich family, Grassland Dairy and all of our industry partners,” said Maria Gallo, UW-River Falls chancellor. “Thanks to their commitment, we will provide our students with amazing interactive experiences with the cutting-edge technology they need to become the next generation of dairy industry leaders.

Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association Executive Director John Umhoefer led his membership’s strong and generous commitment to the renovated plant.

“UWRF has earned this industry support,” Umhoefer said. “Through focused leadership in the chancellor’s and dean’s offices, tireless execution by Director of Dairy Production Michelle Farner, and creative collaboration from Julie Stucky and the University Advancement and Foundation teams, UWRF is a place where things get done.”

UWRF’s Wuethrich Family/Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence is scheduled to launch operations in spring 2023.

To support the Wuethrich Family/Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence, email Julie Stucky (julie.stucky@uwrf.edu) in University Advancement or call 715-425-4647 to learn more and discuss giving opportunities.

Orth named dean of CAFES Michael Orth has been selected as the next dean of the UW-River Falls College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES).

Orth begins his tenure on June 1, 2023, succeeding Dale Gallenberg, who retired in October. Dean Olson, interim CAFES dean, will continue to provide leadership to the college through the end of May 2023.

Orth will provide leadership to one of the nation’s top undergraduate agricultural programs. CAFES offers high-demand programs like agricultural engineering and environmental engineering and is home to one of the largest dairy science programs in the nation. Other programs span from agricultural education to conservation, horticulture and agricultural business.

Orth has been a faculty member at Texas Tech University in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences, where he also served as department chair for eight years. Prior to that, he was a faculty member at Michigan State University.

“The focus of CAFES on experiential learning, community outreach, and applied research align with the values I believe are critical for this generation of students,” Orth said. “I look forward to joining the Falcon family in June.”

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UWRF AT A GLANCE

Dr. Robert B. Bailey III Office of International Education dedicated

Building Commission authorizes SciTech construction The University of Wisconsin-River Falls Science and Technology Innovation Center (SciTech) project received a critical green light in August when the Wisconsin State Building Commission voted to authorize construction. The unanimous vote moves the $116.7 million project one step closer to reality.

“This project will be transformational, not only for our campus but for our region,” said UWRF Chancellor Maria Gallo. “SciTech will give our students access to amazing opportunities while also enhancing collaboration with business and industry in a way that will directly contribute to the economic development of western Wisconsin.”

SciTech will house departments including biology, chemistry, physics, and psychological sciences and their related academic programs including pre-engineering, biotechnology and neuroscience. The project will also create space to support meaningful collaborations with local and regional business partners in STEM fields and beyond.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2023 and be completed by late 2025. Classes are slated to start in the new building in January 2026.

The UW-River Falls international studies center now bears the name of the influential educator who initiated the university’s Study Abroad Program nearly 60 years ago.

The state of Wisconsin has funded $111.73 million for the project. The university and UWRF Foundation have raised nearly 70 percent of the remaining $5 million for the $116.73 million project.

Friends, colleagues and former students gathered in June to dedicate the Dr. Robert B. Bailey III Office of International Education in Rodli Hall. Bailey, referred to by most as “Doc,” became UWRF’s first African American faculty member in 1957. He founded UWRF’s Quarter Abroad Program in 1963, which is now known as Semester Abroad: Europe.

The event also celebrated the creation of the endowed Dr. Robert B. Bailey III Legacy Scholarship which supports students studying abroad.

Recent elementary education graduate Grace Zimmer was one of the first scholarship recipients. She completed her student teaching and lived with a host family in Spain.

“I am grateful for the opportunity the scholarship provided me,” Zimmer said. “The experience broadened my world perspective and helped me become a more informed global citizen.”

David Olson, a former student and longtime friend of Bailey, said Bailey was the greatest influence in his life and opened the world of travel to him.

“I have traveled the world,” Olson said. “Wherever I go, I think of him. His spirit is in us. It will continue.”

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To learn more about SciTech or provide financial support, visit www.uwrf.edu/scitech.

King named vice chancellor for strategic enrollment Laura King has been named vice chancellor for strategic enrollment at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls following a national search. King begins her role on Jan. 3, 2023.

King, of New Richmond, comes to UW-River Falls from UW-Stout where she served as the vice chancellor for enrollment and strategic initiatives. Prior to her UWStout service, King worked for Saint Paul College in St. Paul, Minn., as vice president of student affairs and as dean of institutional research, planning, and grants. She also brings experience from her service at regional technical and community colleges including CVTC and Century College.

“Laura understands the value of building on UWRF’s strengths and reputation for providing students an exceptional, affordable education in a supportive learning environment,” UWRF Chancellor Maria Gallo said.

“Here, our students are limitless!”

King has a Ph.D. in educational policy and administration from the University of Minnesota, a M.S.Ed. in college student development and administration from UW-La Crosse. She completed her UWRF bachelor’s degree in music performance.

“I am beyond excited to join UWRF,” King said. “As a Falcon, I am fortunate to have seen firsthand the value, opportunity, and social impact UWRF has afforded its graduates and the greater region.”

Regents approve realignment of two colleges at UW-River Falls The University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents gave final approval December 8 to a UW-River Falls reorganization that will reduce the number of colleges from four to three, saving significant administrative costs while increasing support for employees and students.

The action by the board means that after more than a year of campus discussion among administrators, shared governance representatives and faculty, staff and students, the College of Business and Economics (CBE) and the College of Education and Professional Studies (CEPS) will be merged effective July 1, 2023, according to UWRF Chancellor Maria Gallo.

The new realigned college will be called the College of Education, Business and Allied Health (CEBAH).

“This reorganization is the product of much hard work and discussion on the part of many people on campus,” Gallo said. “It shows what we can accomplish when we focus on the goal of giving our students the best opportunity possible to succeed while being mindful of the need to be efficient and effective with taxpayer and tuition resources.”

Students of the first Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree program in Montessori Studies at UWRF.

UWRF launches groundbreaking doctoral degree program For the first time in its nearly 150-year history, UWRiver Falls is offering a doctoral degree program.

In June, 14 students from across the nation became the first cohort of UWRF’s Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree in Montessori Studies, one of the first such programs in the nation.

“The Ed.D. in Montessori Studies will make a meaningful contribution to UWRF’s select mission, overall academic plan and academic degree program array,” said Provost David Travis. “We are proud to offer this level of academic excellence to the teaching community.”

Although the Montessori teaching and learning philosophy has been around for more than 100 years, there have been very few doctoral programs in the world that have focused on the Montessori method of education, which emphasizes the importance of dignity and respect for the individual learner and the potential for students to be meaningful contributors to the world.

“We’re here to learn more and share Montessori’s words and dictates,” said student Bridgette Williams, owner of a private Montessori school in Fayette County, Georgia. “We hope to do what a doctorate is all about. We’re here to create.”

The doctoral program is a part of the Teacher Education Department which already offers a successful Master of Science in Education (MSE) degree in Montessori Education. Students will be able to complete the doctorate’s 54 credits within three years.

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Dale Gallenberg

and the best job

by Brianna Samson

Throughout his 16-year tenure, Dean Dale Gallenberg arrived at the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences Dean’s Office each day confident he had the best job on the University of Wisconsin-River Falls campus.

“I have considered it always a privilege to be in this position,” Gallenberg said. “In large part because of the people I get to work with. We have what I believe are the right core ideas, which include being student centered. I came to this institution because of its reputation. We have a number of angels and miracle workers in CAFES. Despite obstacles that may emerge, they get on with the task at hand.”

Gallenberg is retiring at the end of the year. Dean Olson began the role as interim dean on October 1 and will continue his duties through May 2023.

Michael Orth, a Texas Tech University faculty member and department chair in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences, has been selected as the next dean of the CAFES. Orth begins his UWRF tenure on June 1, 2023.

Prior to coming to UWRF, Gallenberg was the Plant Science Department head at South Dakota State University for about a decade and before that was a faculty member in the department for about 11 years. In that position, he worked largely in extension plant pathology helping to identify plant diseases.

Growing up near Antigo, Gallenberg had two brothers who attended UWRF, but he opted to go to UW-Madison earning his BS degree in horticulture and plant pathology.

“In hindsight, I would have done just fine, if not better than just fine if I’d come to UWRF,” he said.

He earned his M.S. and Ph.D. at Cornell University.

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on campus.

Gallenberg decided to apply to the UWRF CAFES dean’s position because of UWRF’s reputation and location closer to his hometown.

“It was an opportunity to come to a college with an excellent reputation and potential for the future,” he said. “One attraction was its engagement of the alumni, which has continued.”

When he first arrived at UWRF, the growing major was animal science, particularly the equine option. Over the years, CAFES has added new programs in agricultural engineering and environmental engineering and most recently in international food operations management.

“We believe we’ve been responsive to both student interest and the needs of employers and industry,” Gallenberg said. An example of this was the addition of the companion animal option within the animal science program. Growth in this program area has been significant in only a few years.

The UWRF Dairy Learning Center at the Mann Valley Laboratory Farm opened in 2007 shortly after Gallenberg’s arrival.

“The Dairy Learning Center is still a premier facility for us,” Gallenberg said. “It has the unique presence of a classroom facility where students can walk next door to a milking parlor.”

The Dairy Pilot Plant, now known as the Wuethrich Family/Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence, is completing its nearly $8.5 million renovation project, Gallenberg said. Another set of spaces that will need renovation after the campus SciTech facility is in Agriculture Science Hall, including the

greenhouse complex. A new swine facility project is underway at the Mann Valley Laboratory Farm. Gallenberg said focusing on facilities is part of the hands-on approach to CAFES education.

“Our programs are very facilities dependent,” he said. “We have two laboratory farms and other unique facilities that are first and foremost used for teaching.”

Animal and Food Science

Department Chair Steve Kelm said Gallenberg is humble and a staunch advocate for CAFES and the department’s staff and students.

“Dean Gallenberg is, by far, the longesttenured administrator at UWRF and it is difficult to overstate the importance of the stability brought to CAFES by his dedicated efforts,” Kelm said. “The length of his tenure brings immense institutional knowledge.

He has always been determined to build on strengths but has also encouraged faculty and departments to explore new opportunities.”

“The CAFES dean has a critical position within the institution as many of the programs in CAFES are unique to most fouryear campuses in the UW System,” Kelm said.

“These programs are nationally recognized such that peer institutions are more likely to include campuses such as Iowa State University, Michigan State University, or the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

“Dean Gallenberg has always recognized that UWRF has an opportunity to be viewed favorably in the national landscape,” continued Kelm. “He has never backed away from that spotlight and has encouraged faculty and staff to embrace and build on that national reputation.”

Gallenberg said he felt it was a good time to retire and bring in new leadership to start in CAFES. “There is tremendous potential for this college and much good work yet to be done,” Gallenberg said.

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Events and programs highlighting sustainability, innovation, creativity and community marked the inauguration of the 20th chancellor in UWRF’s 148-year history, Maria Gallo, Ph.D. The two days of festivities included a Day of Engagement on October 19 and installation ceremonies on October 20: • Nate Boettcher, president and CEO of Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services, provided a presentation on innovative rural broadband solutions. The talk was hosted by UWRF’s College of Business and Economics as part of its Innovator in Residence Speaker Series.

• Visitors could enjoy a noontime edition of the Frances Cohler Coffee Concert Series with the UWRF Symphony Band and faculty art show in Kleinpell Fine Arts.

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• Sustainability Director Mark Klapatch-Mathias presented the newly approved Sustainable Campus Community Plan and offered walking tours that showcased the UWRF Grounds Department’s extensive sustainability efforts and the new UWRF Bee Hotel.

• In honor of Gallo’s inauguration, a Bur Oak tree, a gift from the City of River Falls, was dedicated on campus.

The tree was chosen “…because it represents strength, resilience, and longevity,” said Mike Noreen, the city’s forester and conservation and efficiency coordinator.

• Media personality and UWRF alum Cathy Wurzer hosted a conversation with acclaimed science writer Annie Murphy Paul, the author of “The Extended Mind: The Power of Thinking Outside the Brain.” The book was selected as Amazon Editors’ Pick for Best Nonfiction; one of 50 Notable Works of Nonfiction by the

Frances Cohler Coffee Concert Series

Cathy Wurzer

Bur Oak Tree Dedication

Bee Hotel Dedication

Annie Murphy Paul Washington Post; and one of 100 Notable Books by The New York Times.

• Gallo’s installation ceremony on October 20 was emceed

by Wurzer and featured music by the UWRF Symphony Band and remarks by Gallo and distinguished alums and guests, including the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary and UWRF alum Randy Romanski; Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers; current UWRF distinguished alum and ‘83 graduate Paul Dykstra; and UW System Board of Regents President Karen Walsh.

Nate Boettcher • Besides increasing access, Gallo said it’s important for UW-River Falls to work hard on diversity, equity and inclusion, “making sure all students feel welcome and at home here and are given the guidance they need to shape their own lives to be productive, engaged citizens and leaders.” That effort will extend to all employees as well, Gallo said, and in particular “faculty and staff who identify as female and females of color to move into leadership roles in higher education … they continue to comprise only a small percentage of leadership positions, and women of color even less.”

• Gallo’s remarks focused on the importance of helping students achieve “social mobility” or the ability to succeed in life despite economic disadvantages that might make them less likely than others to finish college.

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OPPORTUNITY

WELCOME TO THE PLAYGROUND

ArTherapy University of Wisconsin-River Falls Art Department Lecturer and 2008 Alum Ann E. Lawton knows the importance of art to educate, help and serve others.

Lawton, who teaches Introduction to Art Therapy, has her master’s degree in art therapy from Mount Mary University in Milwaukee.

“Using art helps people and families to cope, tell their stories or just connect, which is so rare in our busy-sick society,” Lawton said. “Words often fail us. We have such a hard time identifying our emotions let alone communicating them. Art helps put those emotions into context and gives the ability to heal, cope and transform,” “When art-based experiences are paired with challenging content, something remarkable occurs in participants, regardless of their background or skill level with art,” Lawton added. “Artmaking

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alleviates psychological defenses, creates opportunities for verbal discussion, builds self-esteem and promotes self-awareness and empathy. These are all attributes necessary in addressing and facilitating change to dismantle the culture of sexual violence and unhealthy relationship behaviors.”

Nearly a dozen UWRF alums have gone on to graduate school to study art therapy since Lawton started teaching in 2011, despite the university not offering a major or minor, she said.

“They fundamentally know the value of helping and the arts,” said Lawton, who tends to work in mixed media as an artist. “UWRF prepares them well to go on to graduate school and do the work. I felt that as an alum.”

Daniel Benendum is one of the alums who headed to graduate school this fall at the School of Art Institute of Chicago.

Benendum graduated in December 2021 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts emphasis in painting and a major in psychology with an emphasis in social justice degree.

Lawton’s class helped prepare Benendum for grad school.

“I was interested in the art therapy program because I am interested in making art with people and allowing people to use art as a communication tool,” Benendum said.

Many UWRF students may not be familiar with art therapy but know of Lawton’s reputation and have heard of the introductory course, Esterline said.

Dannie Esterline, a May 2021 Bachelor of Science in art and a minor in psychology graduate, is attending Mount Mary University for a Master of Science in Art Therapy, emphasis mental health counseling.

“Art therapy is a career that is growing, and many young people are interested in it,” Esterline said. “Something I really love about Ann is everything is an experience. In Drawing I, we had to lay in front of Kleinpell Fine Arts and draw the trees. .”

At age eight, Esterline’s grandfather encourage Esterline to look at art therapy when the youth expressed interest in being an artist.

Lawton, an art therapist in Student Health and Counseling Services and the campus violence prevention coordinator, this year received the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents Academic Staff Excellence Award. Lawton also has presented on art therapy in the community and facilitated individual and group art therapy sessions throughout the area, including with incarcerated parents and their children along with Esterline.

“I just always had that in the back of my mind,” Esterline said.

“Starting my undergrad at UWRF, I met Ann and learned more about art therapy and mental health. There are certain feelings and emotions that cannot be said in words. Kids have big emotions and cannot describe how they are feeling in words. Through art, they are able to draw and talk about it. I am really interested in working with queer youth and trans youth in an LGBTQ+ center.”

Esterline took the Introduction to Art Therapy and an art therapy independent study course from Lawton.

Lawton’s Introduction to Art Therapy course has a 20- to 30-student waiting list each semester including art and psychology majors as well as students taking it as a general education course.

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OPPORTUNITY

Counseling

CREATING RELATIONSHIPS

“To be a licensed school counselor, you have to prepare for it. That is exactly what the counseling program at UWRF did for me.”

The words spoken by 2013 counseling program graduate James Lo express the overarching sentiment of many of the students who graduate from the program.

Interviews of multiple graduates from the UWRF program yield two consistent themes: nontraditional students and students of color.

“Our niche is that we are flexible and diverse,” said Counseling and School Psychology Professor Mark Gillen. “UWRF isn’t a day program, and we are not a full-time program. Our program is flexible. We have students who are taking one class and others who are taking three classes. This is what attracts many nontraditional students to the program.

“We also focus on having a goal of training school counselors that are reflective of the students who are in the school systems,” Gillen said. “We want to have as diverse a population as we can here.”

The program, however, wasn’t always like this. According to Ali Kofiro, ‘10, the program has changed for the better.

“There was not a lot of diversity. I was the only Muslim student in my classes as well as the only student of color. I was also sometimes the only male,” Kofiro said.

He says that the reason things have changed is due to Gillen.

“I tried to drop out of the program, but Dr. Gillen never let

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to fund 24 months of study and reflection to build her leadership skills. Abdikarani is pursuing a certificate in Islamic psychology. She is also working to develop resources and training for teachers and parents of Muslim-American youth and collaborating with spiritual leaders and mental health professionals to cultivate wellness.

Other graduates, like Kofiro and 2013 graduate Barbie Woodruff, continue to be an important part of the counseling program.

“When I graduated from the program, I didn’t want to leave,” explains Kofiro. “I came back to the program and taught some classes. I am also a part of the program’s stakeholders group.”

Woodruff is a part of the recruitment team for the program.

“We work to recruit more people of color and are taking steps to make sure that the program looks like the students we serve,” she said. “That is so important.”

According to Gillen, having a more diverse population within the program - specifically a Somali population – all started with Kofiro.

After graduating and starting his counseling career, Kofiro recognized opportunity within the large immigrant population in Minnesota.

“I wanted to show them the way,” Kofiro said. “I showed them how to apply and connected them to the right people, like Dr. Gillen. I helped mentor them through the program.”

me go; he brought me back. My presence in the program and the change that has been happening has helped not only me, but the whole dynamic of the program,” Kofiro said.

If you ask Gillen about the program’s shift, he will tell you it’s because of the students.

After the students graduated, Kofiro stayed connected and helped them find career opportunities. There are currently 16 licensed Somali school counselors in Minnesota; some of them have moved on to become principals. This group of 16 comes together once a year to catch up and talk about their careers. The group invites Gillen, whom they initiated as a Somali elder. This group continues to pay it forward by networking and helping others join the program.

Mark Gillen

“The students really influence what the program looks like,” Gillen said. “This is the case while they are getting their degree and after they get their degree because they are coming back and asking what they can do, have you thought about this and giving ideas. It’s the people who have been a part of the program that really make a difference.”

All the alums interviewed have gone on to have fulfilling counseling careers within K-12 schools. One of these alums, Kaltun Abdikarani, ‘20, was one of 24 new fellows chosen by the Bush Foundation in 2022 for their work in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and the 23 native nations that share that same geography. She received $100,000

“My favorite thing about the program was the appreciation for culture and diversity,” said Lo. “The program really trains the next level of school counselors. You could feel the care that they had for us. That really fostered the education we were receiving.”

Abdikarani summarized the mutual sentiment: “There was a personal relationship with teachers and students. It felt like everybody became a family.”

This makes sense because, as Gillen put it, “The foundation of what we do is create relationships with people.”

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OPPORTUNITY

Telling the Falcon Story Streaming TV Series ‘The College Tour’ to feature UW-River Falls,

Submitted photos

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Look out world, here comes UW-River Falls!

More than 40,000 alumni and 5,200 current Falcons know what makes UW-River Falls special. Soon, the whole world will know.

The story of UWRF will be told by The College Tour, an award-winning Amazon Prime TV series which focuses on colleges and universities around the world. The UW-River Falls segment will debut on Amazon on March 22, 2023.

“This is a golden opportunity for our students to share what it’s like to be a Falcon to an incredibly wide audience,” said Chancellor Maria Gallo, who experienced the benefits of The College Tour’s production while president of Delaware Valley

University, where she served from 2016-2021. “The inside look at UWRF will be even more meaningful because it’s focused on our students. They’ll be telling our unique and compelling story from their perspectives.”

The show is hosted by Alex Boylan, a TV personality who won CBS’ “Amazing Race” when he was only 23.

Boylan has also been a part of several other national TV shows.

UWRF is the first Wisconsin college or university to be featured on The College Tour. Ten Falcon students are included in the episode.

Featured UWRF students: Nathaniel Bohnen Home Country: Chile Major: Business Administration; Minor in Spanish Why I Chose UWRF: The university’s acceptance to different backgrounds and identities.

Sam Peters Hometown: South Saint Paul, Minn.

Major: Broad Field Social Studies Why I Chose UWRF: The campus was community oriented which has allowed me to easily adjust to college life and become involved.

Dylan Jensen Hometown: Racine Major: Neuroscience and Psychology My Favorite Thing About UWRF: The different career advancement and professional development opportunities.

Amber Rappl Hometown: Mt. Calvary Major: Biotechnology My Favorite Thing About UWRF: The university offers many resources and networking opportunities for students to succeed in the classroom and out in the field.

Brooks Lueck Hometown: Mazomanie Major: Agriculture Education My Favorite Thing About UWRF: Competing on the track and field team.

Isaac Roehrig Hometown: Brillion Major: Psychology with an emphasis in Mental Health and Neuroscience My Favorite Thing About UWRF: Getting to study abroad in Europe.

Milton Massaquoi Hometown: Blaine, Minn.

Major: Computer Science My Favorite Thing About UWRF: Getting to be a part of the leadership team for the Black Student Union.

Margaret Wallin Hometown: Downing Major: Stage and Screen Arts and Music Why I Chose UWRF: I wanted to go somewhere that had a strong music and theater program.

Giselle Nuñez Hometown: Cottage Grove, Minn.

Major: Psychology and Neuroscience Why I Chose UWRF: It was close to home, affordable and the class sizes were right for my learning style.

Greta Weix Hometown: St. Paul, Minn.

Major: Agriculture Education My Favorite Thing About UWRF: Being a part of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association Western Show Team.

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Falcon feature

OPPORTUNITY

The

band

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is Back Together!

Marching Falcons return in 2023 The sounds of a marching band have not been heard on the UW-River Falls campus for more than 30 years. That all changes in the fall of 2023 when the Marching Falcons make their debut – or rather, their re-introduction to UWRF culture.

Instrumental Music Professor Tom Barnett, D.M.A., who has been a member of the UWRF faculty since 2001, has led the charge to re-establish the marching band program.

“Over the years I heard from so many prospective and current students how important a marching band program is,” Barnett said. “So, the new program will address a pressing need, while at the same time creating a new and vital school spirit; a Falcon spirit.”

To build a foundation for the marching band, Barnett started the Falcon Pep Band several years ago. He said the band has grown steadily and now provides inspiration and entertainment at athletic contests and campus events. But there were other external factors which inspired Barnett to consider taking the “next step” in the formation of a marching band.

UWRF Alums and Donors Pat and Dave Stone, ’78, had supported several campus initiatives, but often wondered aloud why UWRF didn’t have a marching band. Pat was a member

of the Marching Falcons back in the 1970s and considered her experiences the most memorable of her college years.

When the Stones learned Barnett was working to resurrect the program, they were quick to offer support.

“Being a part of the marching band allowed me to be a part of something,” said Pat Stone. “I immediately made friends and had a purpose.”

After meeting with Barnett and hearing his plans for the Marching Falcons, the Stones have contributed more than $100,000 to the program. Funds have been designated for the purchase of instruments and storage improvements to protect the significant investment in instruments.

“The Stones have been incredible,” Barnett said. “Their generosity has allowed us to confidently move forward with our plans. And they play an active role. I invited Pat to play her flute with the pep band when she returned for homecoming.

She had a wonderful time.”

The establishment of marching band is also a part of UWRF’s overall strategic student recruitment and retention strategy.

Surveys indicate many prospective students want marching band a part of their college experience. A key factor is the involvement of non-music majors.

“We want this marching band to be all-inclusive,” Barnett said.

“Music majors and non-music majors are welcomed. We’re creating a family atmosphere. There’s a sense of belonging that marching band provides; being part of something bigger than yourself.”

“When I was a student at UWRF, it was important to me that the marching band program was open to non-music majors,” said Pat Stone. “It was an attraction for students then, and it’s a wonderful way to attract students to UWRF now.

Fund raising for the new program continues. To support the Marching Falcons, please give online at https://www.uwrf. edu/give/marchingfalcons.cfm.

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falcon athletics

Launch of varsity Esports

by Trent Jackson In June 2022, UWRF Athletics announced the addition of Esports as its 18th varsity intercollegiate program.

Esports, also known as competitive gaming or electronic sports, has become popular with students on college campuses across the country. UWRF will become the second Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) member school to add Esports as a varsity sport, following UW-Stout.

The brand-new Falcon Athletics program will be coed and will have a dedicated Esports Arena in the Chalmer Davee Library, preparing to compete at the varsity level during the 2023-24 academic year.

“We are excited to announce the addition of a varsity Esports program here at UWRF,” said Director of Athletics Crystal Lanning. “Competitive gaming has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years, and we look forward to welcoming a new demographic of competitive student-athletes to join Falcon Athletics.”

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Head Coach Dylan Gentilcore

The Place to Be Experience enhanced at Smith Stadium at Ramer Field A winning program, a spirited pep band, a welcoming and high-energy tailgating environment and a new state-of-the art video scoreboard combined to make Smith Stadium at Ramer Field the place to be this fall.

On the field, and for the second straight season, the football Falcons finished in the upper division of the highly competitive WIAC, compiling a 7-4 overall record and ending their season with a victory over Washington University (St. Louis) in the second annual Isthmus Bowl.

Off the field, several developments enhanced the fan experience, including:

Dylan Gentilcore will lead the Falcon Esports Team as the inaugural head coach. He came to River Falls from Indiana as a co-director of the Indiana Esports Network and the founder, coach, and director of the esports program at Carmel High School, developed in 2018.

“UWRF has all the pieces in place to execute a successful Esports program,” Gentilcore commented. “After building a strong culture from the ground up with my students at Carmel Esports, I’m excited to have the opportunity to not only repeat that success but work with the excellent staff and students at UWRF to create the most holistic and student-centered Esports program possible.”

• Video scoreboard – The 500-square foot Daktronics product features a full LED video display and replaces a conventional scoreboard used for decades. “Our previous scoreboard was more than 40 years old and replacement parts were no longer available,” said UWRF Director of Athletics Crystal Lanning. “We held our breath hoping it would work for one more game. The new display dramatically improves our game day experience for our student athletes and fans.”

• Tailgating – Pre-game gatherings in the stadium’s parking lot have become a growing tradition and fans arrive early to get their favorite spots.

• Pep Band – The UWRF Pep Band has grown dramatically and now provides entertainment for the early arriving tailgate crowd as well as performing throughout the game. The talented group led by Tom Barnett will evolve into a marching band in time for the 2023 football season.

• First National Bank of River Falls VIP Suite – Chancellor Maria Gallo welcomed top donors and corporate partners throughout the season in the suite which now features added amenities including improved food and beverage offerings, a video monitor and Falcon football photo displays.

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falcon Athletics

In March 2020, Callie Hoff and the UW-River Falls women’s hockey team were coming off a win in the NCAA Tournament Quarterfinals, which marked the 400th win in program history and for head coach Joe Cranston. Soon after however, the remainder of the national tournament, along with next year’s postseason, was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite the heartbreak of missing out on competing at the national stage for two consecutive seasons, Hoff was granted a fifth year of eligibility and made the most of it, capping off her career as a Falcon as the program’s all-time leading scorer and the American Hockey Coaches Association Laura Hurd Player of the Year.

Hoff, along with classmate and teammate Kora Torkelson, both were elementary education majors and had a semester left of student teaching to finish. The duo of northern Minnesota natives (Hoff of Duluth, Minn., and Torkelson of Thief River Falls, Minn.) made the decision to return for one more year with the goal of leaving a legacy as one of the strongest teams in UWRF women’s hockey history.

Callie Hoff One for the Record Books

by Trent Jackson

“Towards the end of our senior season when we learned the fifth year was an option, Kora and I were really on the fence, and we wanted to make the decision together,” Hoff said.

“We knew that if we stayed, we had a good opportunity to have a great team and make a run at the national tournament again. Student teaching and playing hockey was not going to be easy, but now looking back at everything we accomplished, it was definitely worth it.”

The 2021-22 Falcons broke a program record 27 wins while reaching the NCAA Tournament Quarterfinals along with winning the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference regular season title and O’Brien Cup Championship. Hoff led the way, stamping her name atop of the UWRF women’s hockey record books as the all-time leading scorer.

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Her list of awards is long, headlined by her AHCA Player of the Year award along with earning WIAC Player of the Year for the second consecutive season, and receiving her second career All-American accolade. In addition, she was honored for her academic efforts and her character, securing a spot on the CoSIDA Academic All-American Team with a cumulative 3.76 grade point average while being nominated for NCAA Woman of the Year.

“Individually, it wasn’t ever a goal of mine to win Player of the Year, but it’s a bonus for sure,” she commented. “Our goal was always to win the O’Brien Cup and make it through playoffs to the National Championship. Even though we came up short with our ultimate goal, we have to be pretty dang proud of what we’ve done and what we’ve established for the future.”

Growing up in Duluth, hockey was a big part of the Hoff family. She grew up skating on the outdoor rinks and blossomed as a high school hockey player for Proctor-Hermantown, where she was recruited by Cranston and the UWRF women’s hockey coaching staff. Years later, Cranston was the first person to share the news that Hoff had reached the pinnacle of Division III women’s hockey individual recognition as the Laura Hurd Player of the Year.

“I didn’t really think much of the award and put things in the past after we lost but planned on watching the ceremony,” Hoff explained the moment as she was enjoying a vacation in Florida. “I was laying by the pool when I got a text from Joe (Cranston), and I broke down crying without knowing it was coming.”

“Joe has made a big impact on my life, and I called him immediately to thank him for everything he’s done and pushing me to take my fifth year. I couldn’t have done it without his encouragement and support,” Hoff said.

Hoff is quick to credit others who helped support her athletic and academic career at UW-River Falls, whether it was professors willing to work with her hockey schedule, guidance from current UWRF Associate Athletic Director Kellen WellsMangold, and her teammates and coaches.

“All the professors at UW-River Falls were very supportive,” Hoff said. “Kellen is also

huge for all the athletes, keeping them on track and seeing what opportunities are out there for us. For sure Kora (Torkelson) helped me. Since freshman year, we were in the same classes and were roommates throughout our five years.”

“I’m thankful for UW-River Falls top to bottom, not only the relationships with my team but with other athletes and students and teachers as well,” Hoff said. “I’ve still been receiving texts and emails from my teachers congratulating me and wishing me well. River Falls has brought me so many opportunities to meet new people.”

Hoff also acknowledges some of her role models, whether it was playing on a line her freshman season with Carly Moran, a 2018 UWRF graduate, or living up to the number 10’s legacy, donned by Dani Sibley, ’17, the first National Player of the Year award winner in UWRF women’s hockey history.

“I never got to play with Dani Sibley but coming into River Falls, she was my idol,” Hoff spoke of her mentors. “Joe (Cranston) joked about having ‘big shoes to fill’ wearing Sibley’s No. 10, and I knew how good of a player and person she was. I pushed myself to live up to those standards and I hope I can be a role model for others the way they did for me.”

Hoff went on to break Moran’s goalscoring record and passed Sibley on the Falcons’ all-time scoring list. She finished her career with 197 points (97 goals with 100 assists) in 120 games played.

The accomplishments continue for Hoff, who was recently selected to compete for Team USA in the 2023 FISCU World University Games, January 11-21 in Lake Placid, N.Y. Current Falcon goaltender Dysen Skinner was also named to the men’s team.

Following graduation, Hoff has been working for her parents’ company, F.I. Salter Real Estate Services and is the head girl’s hockey coach at Duluth Marshall High School.

“I’m just going to see where the opportunities take me and am happy to be home giving back to the community that gave so much to me,” Hoff said. “UW-River Falls prepared me well for whatever’s next.”

Falcons earn second straight Isthmus Bowl title The UW-River Falls football team capped off its 2022 season defeating Washington UniversitySt. Louis 31-24 in the second annual Culver’s Isthmus Bowl at Bank of Sun Prairie Stadium, the program’s second consecutive Isthmus Bowl championship.

The Falcons, who wrapped up the season with a 7-4 overall record, were powered by a 24-point second quarter and solid defense, including a 50-yard interception return by Aaron Borgerding for the game-winning score. Quarterback Kaleb Blaha totaled 348 yards of total offense to win the Isthmus Bowl Most Valuable Player award.

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Alumni

HOMECOMING

A PLACE TO CALL

home!

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Homecoming is always a special time, but after the impact of the pandemic, this year’s celebration took on special meaning. Alumni returned in record numbers to commemorate – in person – the legacy of UWRF. Homecoming highlights included: • The traditional campus community bean soup event. The Greek Lifehosted gathering was started by Professor James P. back in 2016.

• A student “border battle” tug of war. Wisconsin pullers edged Minnesota 3-2.

• The annual alumni St. Croix River Boat Cruise attracted more than 40 members of the Falcon family.

• The homecoming parade attracted a huge crowd to downtown River Falls and featured varsity and club teams, student organizations, marching bands, community groups and the St. Croix Valley Shrine Club.

• Nearly 3,800 fans packed Smith Stadium at Ramer Field to enjoy a dominant 56-3 Falcon football win over UW-Stevens Point.

• A record turnout of 120 students and donors turned out for the annual Scholarship Recognition event.

• A near capacity crowd attended the annual homecoming concert featuring the UWRF Symphony Band, choir and Alumni Choir.

Plans are already underway for Homecoming 2023, September 28-October 1.

Members of the ’59 Aggies enjoy their session with Professor of Geology and Soil Science Holly Dolliver, far left, during the group’s campus visit on September 13.

A Tradition Continues ‘59 Aggies gather, reminisce, learn It started in 1989, at the 30th reunion of graduates from the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences class of 1959. The alumni were determined to get together on a more regular basis, and that tradition continued in September.

“Back in 1959, the agriculture department only had about 50 students,” said George Cipov, an agriculture education major. “We were a close-knit group and got to know each other very well over four years.”

The idea for more frequent reunions came about thanks to one classmate who invited everyone to his home on Shell Lake.

“From there, it was every five years,” said Dan Gaeu, broad agriculture major. “A number of people in our class were veterans and older than those of us who were traditional students. As we all grew older, they wanted to meet more often than every five years, so we had a 42nd class reunion, then a 45th, 47th and then a 50th.

After that, we’ve tried to get together every two years and we’ve done that, except during the pandemic.”

The Aggie reunions are more than social gatherings. Several years ago, the group started a 1959 Aggies CAFES Scholarship, now awarded to students who meet GPA and financial need criteria.

The September reunion featured a campus tour, sessions with CAFES faculty, lunch at Riverside Commons and a catered dinner.

“They put on a good program for us,” said Louie Barber, agriculture education major. “I appreciated the time with Dr. Zlesak in the greenhouse and Dr. Dolliver in the soils lab. The rest of the tour was really good.”

“Our visit back to campus was eye-opening and kind of awesome because of the fact that there were so many new facilities that did not exist at the time when we were there,” said Capov.

As the years go by, the ’59 Aggies appreciate their reunions even more.

“It’s a special, meaningful time,” said Gaeu. “We just genuinely enjoy getting together.”

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Alumni

DONOR PROFILE

Falcons Forever:

By Rick Foy From the first time they met on the campus of then Wisconsin State College-River Falls in the early 1950s, it was clear James and Margery (Deans) Belisle were a great team.

Nearly 70 years later, they still are.

Jim and Marge started dating as sophomores and to say they made an impact on campus is an understatement.

Marge was the first female elected as president of the Student Senate. Jim was a guard on the Falcons basketball team led by the legendary Roger Kuss which qualified for the 1953 NAIA national tournament in Kansas City. They were also chosen king and queen of the college’s winter carnival celebration. Jim was honored as the Falcons’ outstanding senior athlete.

Both Jim and Marge were 1954 graduates.

Marge, who grew up in Hammond, earned her bachelor’s degree in English and history education and Jim, from Menomonie, earned his degree in social sciences. Marge taught high school students in Minneapolis; Fort Hays, Kan.: and Bloomington, Ind. before influencing the lives of hundreds of student athletes as a long-time academic adviser at Indiana University.

After serving in the U.S. Army, Jim went on to earn his master’s degree and Ph.D. at Indiana University’s School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER), the first school of its kind in the country. For several years, he served on the faculty of Fort Hays State University before returning to Indiana University to serve as a longtime HPER professor and assistant dean.

His is now associate professor emeritus in IU’s School of Public Health. They are both quick to credit UW-River Falls for providing a strong foundation for their many career and life successes.

“We had such a wonderful experience at River Falls and are forever thankful for the opportunities the university provided,” Jim said. “Lately, both Marge and I have been reflecting on many special college memories. We really felt it was time to give

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Jim and Marge Belisle back to a place that changed our lives and meant so much to us.”

The Belisles have certainly given back generously. They recently established an endowed academic scholarship fund, developed specifically for those students who need financial support and exhibit academic promise. An additional donation was designated for the men’s basketball program. The Belisles’ transformational gift has resulted in the naming of the Falcon Center’s second floor level in their honor.

On Dec. 3, during the men’s basketball program’s alumni day celebration, the area was officially dedicated as the James and Margery Belisle Concourse. Coincidentally, December 3 is also Jim’s 90th birthday.

“What a meaningful way to celebrate a milestone birthday,” Jim said.

Both Jim and Marge refer often to the special relationships they established with friends and faculty members they have maintained throughout their lives.

“We hope our support helps provide students the same meaningful opportunities we experienced during our years at River Falls,” Marge said.

“I’ve often thought, where would I be without River Falls and the wonderful friends, teachers, coaches and mentors I met there?” Jim said. “We’re so fortunate to be able to give back to a place so very special to us.”

Nearly 70 years after they made an impact on campus, Jim and Marge are still a team, continuing to make a difference and changing the lives of Falcons now and for generations to come.

alumni

profile

RECOGNITION

2022 Evening of Excellence MAY 6 EVENT RECOGNIZED UWRF ALUMNI PAUL DYKSTRA, a 1983 graduate in accounting, earned the Distinguished Alumni Award.

Dykstra is an independent board member and recent past chair, president and chief executive officer of Phoenix-based Viad Corp., a $1.1 billion New York Stock Exchange company with domestic and international operations in marketing and event services, travel and recreation service and formerly payment services.

Dykstra has been a member of the UWRF Foundation Board since 2017 and has chaired the Investment Committee for four years. He also served on the board previously from 1998 to 2003. He spoke at the May commencement ceremonies.

Established in 1959, the UWRF Distinguished Alumni Award is the most prestigious recognition of UWRF alumni accomplishments.

KATIE RYAN NIZNIK received the Outstanding Service Award.

Niznik, a 2010 UWRF sociology graduate, began her career that same year as an undergraduate children’s services intern for Turningpoint for Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence in River Falls and after the internship, accepted a full-time position there.

Over the years, Niznik has worked as a crisis advocate, volunteer services coordinator, legal advocate and sexual assault services coordinator. She is currently the sexual assault services director.

Niznik has been the UWRF campus victim advocate since 2016. She serves the campus community by facilitating training sessions on healthy relationships and consent, providing emotional support to student victims and survivors in the aftermath of sexual assault and assisting students with navigating the complicated Title IX process after an incident.

Established in 1983, the Outstanding Service Award recognizes individuals and organizations outside of the university community who have made exemplary contributions to the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

RAMONA RAEHSLER received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Raehsler graduated from UWRF in 1971 with a degree in elementary education and then went on to earn two master’s degrees from UWRF, one in education in 1987 and the other in school psychology in 1990.

In 2019, she received a Faculty Recognition Award from the UWRF Sociology, Criminology and Anthropology Department.

After 30 years of teaching, she retired from St. Bridget Catholic School in River Falls.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, established in 2014, recognizes the accomplishments of alums who have provided long-time exceptional service and leadership in their profession, community, and continuing interest and loyalty to UW-River Falls.

SYDNEY HALL WITTMIER received the Outstanding Young Alum Award.

Wittmier, a 2008 graduate in applied physics, is a senior project manager with Minneapolis-based Mortenson Construction in charge of quality control and project management in their Wind Energy Construction Project Division.

One of her largest projects has been as the assistant project manager for the construction of U.S. Bank Stadium in the Twin Cities.

She serves on the board of the Family Partnership.

Wittmier volunteers with the Architecture Construction and Engineering (ACE) Mentor Program and Girls Taking Action, a mentorship program. She was the 2021 featured speaker at the Groundbreaking Women in Construction Conference and a Minneapolis/St. Paul Journal’s 2022 “40 under 40” honoree.

The Outstanding Young Alum Award, established in 2014, recognizes the accomplishments of individuals who have excelled in professional and civic accomplishments within the last 15 years.

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alma matters

CLASS NOTES. WEDDINGS. FUTURE FALCONS. FALCON FAREWELL. Class Notes

UWRF’s Limitless Future Comes to Life UW-River Falls recently introduced a revitalized brand.

Thanks to extensive research and enthusiastic input from current UWRF students, alumni, faculty, staff, donors and friends, we’ve redefined what makes UWRF unique. Throughout the process, we heard a recurring and similar theme. UWRF is a place where our students find a welcoming, transforming and caring environment where they discover the confidence and courage to Rick Foy take on new challenges, find their voice, embrace opportunities and know they – and their future – are limitless.

Limitless. One word that not only powerfully describes our students’ opportunities, but also UWRF’s own future. Perhaps no project in UWRF’s history demonstrates that limitless future than the new Science and Technology Innovation Center (SciTech). The state of Wisconsin is providing more than $111 million of the funding for the transformational facility. We’re heading down the home stretch of raising the remaining $5 million to meet our obligations for the project that will not only transform campus, but the entire region.

Recently, two alums who met during their first year at UWRF in the mid-1970s and later married while undergraduates, returned to campus. They toured the state-of-the-art Falcon Center, which they had supported, then learned about SciTech. A few days later, they designated a significant gift for SciTech, delivered with this message:

1950s

Arlen Christenson, 1958 will be inducted in the 2022 class of the Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame. Madison.

1970s

Wiliam Brunclik, 1975 retired from Rice Lake High School after 44 years as a math teacher.

Ronald S. Nyeggen, 1977 has retired from his chiropractic practice after serving the Ellsworth community for 40 years. Ellsworth.

1980s

Howard “Howie” Robinson, 1980 recently retired after 32 years as the city of Milton’s director of public works. Milton.

George Klink, 1983 has retired from the Elmwood School District where he served as an elementary teacher.

Rev. Cathleen Morris, 1983 has been named the pastor for the Christian ministry between Bethlehem Lutheran Church and the First Presbyterian Church of Florence. Florence.

“We are pleased to contribute to the people and the principles of an organization and culture that has made a big difference in our lives and those of countless others.

Jeff Whitney, 1983 was recently inducted into the Minnesota Hockey Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Rochester, Minn.

We are grateful for the opportunity to support this noteworthy venture.”

Pam Jahnke, 1985 was recently inducted into the National Association of Farm Broadcasting Hall of Fame.

Madison.

Dr. Stephen J. and Lynn M. Swensen, UWRF ’78

Jaculyne Collins, 1985 recently completed her M.S. in teaching from the College of St. Scholastica, Eden Prairie, Minn.

Mickey Mueller, 1985 is an administrative assistant for the University Foundation at UW-Stout. Menomonie.

Jeff Nelson, 1989 has retired from the Barron County Sheriff’s Department as a detective after serving 26 years. Barron.

Steve Kenny, 1986, 2018 recently started performing again at the Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog, St. Paul, Minn.

1990s

Jim Schulenburg, 1990 was recently appointed to the Fort Atkinson Community Foundation Board. Fort Atkinson.

Kevin Bullis, 1992 recently announced his retirement as head football coach for the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.

Whitewater.

Pam Weiers, 1993 was named Henderson’s 2021 Woman Farmer of the Year finalist. She is one of five finalists in Henderson, Minn.

Brian Forrest, 1994 was selected as one of four 2021 Master Agriculturalists, Stratford.

Erik Quam, 1995 is director of product development with Fat Brain Toys, was awarded the Play Creator’s Inventor Relations Executive of the Year Award, Louisville, Neb.

ABOUT ALMA MATTERS Find out the latest news from your classmates — career changes, recent honors, retirements and more.

So, it’s about more than a building. It’s about building UWRF’s future.

To learn more about SciTech and, like the Swensens, invest in this transformational project, visit www.uwrf.edu/scitech/, call 715-425-4505 or email me at richard.foy@uwrf.edu.

Thank you for all you do to make UWRF’s future…limitless.

Rick Foy, Assistant Chancellor for University Advancement

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Send us your latest news and we will print it in the next issue.

Here’s how: 1) email falconfeatures@uwrf.edu or 2) submit a form at uwrf.edu/alumni/ and click Update Information.

In the interest of accuracy, encourage classmates to send us their news directly—don’t do it for them.

We will not print a death announcement unless accompanied by a copy of a published obituary (such as an announcement from a local newspaper).

Questions about Alma Matters may be directed to Kjisa Munson at 715-425-3505 or kjisa.munson@uwrf.edu

Teri (Micke) Raatz, 1996 is a full-time instructor in the Agribusiness and Science Technology Department at MidState Technical College.

Colby.

Matt Marek, 2002 was recently named CEO of Seniorlink, Inc., a Boston-based leading tech-enabled health services company. Boston, Mass.

Scott Ries, 1997 recently retired as lieutenant from the Marinette Police Department after nearly three decades of service. Peshtigo.

Mark Theissen, 2002 recently recognized by Press Publications as best teacher, Vadnais Heights, Minn.

Angela Clifton, 1998 was recently inducted into the Simley High School (Minn.) Hall of Fame. Inver Grove Heights, Minn.

Natalie Killion, 1998 Is serving on the FFA Foundation as a new board member, Green Bay. Brian Sichi, 1998 is the CEO for Magnetic Mobile specializing in digital marketing, Miamisburg, Ohio Rick Montreal, 1999 is the dean of students at Prescott High School. Prescott.

2000s

Dawn Benoy, 2000 is a certified ophthalmic technician, Ellsworth.

Kellie Zahn, 2012 was recently honored with Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist Excellence in Agriculture Award. Clintonville.

Charles Henn, 2005 has completed his master cheesemakers courses and is part of the 28th graduating class of the Wisconsin Cheesemaker® program.

Shawano.

Mohamed Egal, 2014 recently completed a Master of Arts degree in health and human services from St. Mary’s University, Minneapolis.

Andy Poterucha, 2006 is the principal at St. Francis of Assisi School, Rochester, Minn.

Amy Wallace, 2006 was recently named to 2021 Minnesota Super Lawyers list as a Super Lawyer Rising Star, Minneapolis.

Cara Dempski, 2000 is the sports editor at the Courier Press. Prairie du Chien.

Teresa Dvorak, 2000 was named to the North Dakota Stockmen’s Foundation Board of Directors. Manning, N.D.

Cynthia Meyer Bourget, 2009 was recently named School Counselor of the Year by the Wisconsin School Counselors Association. Elk Mound.

Katie Raso Carter, 2001 is the activities director for the Austin Public School District.

Austin, Minn.

Angela Bulla, 2009 is the deputy manager for the Lakeview District by The Bureau of Land Management, Monticello, Utah.

Jeremy Daus, 2002 is the director of product development at ProAg, Maple Grove, Minn.

Laura King, 2002 was recently named vice chancellor for strategic enrollment at UW-River Falls.

New Richmond.

Krister Mattson, 2002 was recently named vice president of Enterprise Analytics and Data Science for Gunderson Health System. La Crosse.

Colleen Sowa, 2011 is an assistant coach for the University of Minnesota track and field program. She resides in River Falls.

Ryan Sterry, 2004 is regional dairy educator serving as the agriculture agent in Polk County and St. Croix County, Wis. Hammond.

Jodi Jabs, 2007 completed her Master of Science from Nova Southeastern University, Shakopee, Minn.

Jason Saffert, 2001 is vice president of commercial banking at Johnson Financial Group. Rice Lake.

Kellie Claflin, 2011 has joined The Ohio State University as an assistant professor in agriscience education, Columbus, Ohio.

Lindsay Draz, 2009 is the director, referring provider office for the Mayo Clinic Health System in Rochester, Minn.

Jessica Schaffer Howell, 2009 is a medical laboratory scientist at Essential Health. Duluth, Minn Kevin Priebe, 2009 is an assistant professor at Kentucky Wesleyan, promoting classical music beyond classroom. Owensboro, Ky.

2010s

Annaliese Wegner, 2010 her Modern-day Farm Chick’s social media journey began with a talk to grandma. Ettrick.

Danielle Peterson, 2014 is a manager at Rainbow Treecare with a specialty in Arboriculture. Minnetonka, Minn.

Michael Peterson, 2014 is a newspaper digitization assistant at the Minnesota Historical Society, is an independent scholar, and is volunteering at the Dakota County Historical Society as a author/contributor to the South Eagan Neighbors magazine.

Aria Wallace, 2016 is a lieutenant junior grade with a specialty in cryptologic warfare with the Department of Defense-United States Navy.

Aurora, Colo.

Alex Saxe, 2017 is assistant city administrator for the city of Wyoming.

Wyoming, Minn.

Sarah Storandt, 2017 is the zoo manager at Wildwood Park & Zoo, Marshfield.

Katelyn Zeamer, 2017 completed her Master of Science in animal science from South Dakota State and is the swine technical sales specialist at Purina Animal Nutrition.

Ossian, Iowa.

Edward Eichstadt, 2018 is a trader with Spectro Alloys.

Rosemount, Minn.

Heather VanGuilder, 2018 is a GIS analyst with a specialty in routing at Ecolab. St. Paul, Minn.

McKayla Wingert, 2018 is a multi-media marketing specialist at Agweek. Plainview, Minn.

2020s

Jamie Durose, 2021 is a kindergarten teacher with the Prescott School District.

Prescott.

Kayla Hokenstad, 2021 is the associate principal at Shawano Middle School.

Shawano.

Monica Marsh, 2021 is the training and engagement coordinator for Robbins Sports Surfaces. White Bear Lake, Minn.

Melissa Thorud, 2021 is a reporter at the Pierce County Journal, Ellsworth.

High priority: support the

FALCON ANNUAL FUND! Now, more than ever, UW-River Falls needs your support through a contribution to the Falcon Annual Fund.

The Falcon Annual Fund is the university’s unrestricted funding resource which helps UWRF meet its most pressing and immediate needs. Your investment, which makes an immediate impact, helps provide our students with living and learning experiences that lead to bright future; futures filled with limitless opportunities.

Follow this link to make your online gift in support of the Falcon Annual Fund today: www.uwrf.edu/Give/.

You can mail your check, payable to the UWRF Foundation, to: UWRF Foundation ATTN: Falcon Annual Fund 410 S. 3rd Street River Falls, WI 54022 Thanks for your help moving the Falcons forward!

FALCON FEATURES WINTER 2022-23

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alma matters Falcon Farewell 1940s Grace Tresselt Paulson, ‘42, Oct. 11, 2022.

Margaret “Peg” Pepper Timmerman, ‘43, ’76, Sept. 3, 2022.

David Kvarnes, ’47, Feb. 13, 2022.

Evelyn Bjornstad Asmus, ‘49, Oct. 12, 2022.

1950s Dorothy Eaton Ahlgren, ’50, Jan. 24, 2022.

Louis Rosandick, ’50, May 23, 2022.

Ruth Johnson Theirl, ’50, April 30, 2022.

Richard Vilstrup, ‘51, Dec. 6, 2022 William Allds, ’51, March 11, 2022.

Robert Weber, ’51, April 2, 2022.

Rita McMahon Gronemeyer, ’52, April 22, 2022.

Delores Kildahl Krear, ’52, March 11, 2022.

Virginia Dodge Lindquist, ’53, June 6, 2022.

William Pence, ’54, June 8, 2022.

James Saxton, ’54, April 29, 2022.

CLASS NOTES. WEDDINGS. FUTURE FALCONS. FALCON FAREWELL.

Norris Erickson, ‘55, Feb. 20, 2022.

Jean Adrian La Rue, ’55, April 25, 2022.

Viola Krengel BristolJohnson, ‘55, Sept. 23, 2022.

Ronald Jensen, ’56, April 29, 2022.

David Thoms, ’56, Jan. 15, 2022.

Donald Laue, ‘57, Aug. 21, 2022.

Steve Telisak, ‘57, Dec. 7, 2022.

Larry Henneman, ’57, March 14, 2022.

LaVern Rippley, ’58, Jan. 6, 2022.

Merle Bergren, ‘58, Aug. 12, 2022.

Audrey Graham Gorder, ‘58, Aug. 2, 2022.

Robert Aebly, ’59, March 25, 2022.

James Gardner, ’59, May 23, 2022.

Roger Nichols, ’59, Jan. 30, 2022.

Allen Wienke, ’59, Jan. 20, 2022.

Edward Koca, ‘59, Nov. 27, 2022.

Gary Madson, ‘59, Nov. 6, 2022.

Thomas Trainor, ‘59, Oct. 13, 2022.

1960s Leigh Marquardt, ‘60, Aug. 30, 2022.

Gordon Nelson, ‘60, Oct. 10, 2022.

Orlan Youngren, ‘60, Oct. 17, 2022.

John Gregorich, ‘60, Dec. 6, 2022.

Robert “Bob” Richardson, ’60, March 9, 2022.

David Ankley, ‘61, Aug. 9, 2022.

Danny Porfilio, ‘61, Sept.

1, 2022.

Marlene Morse Bachim, ‘61, Oct. 13, 2022.

Jerome Martel, ’61, Feb. 22, 2022.

Muriel Peterson Skoug, ’61, May 14, 2022.

Neil Tollander, ’61, Jan. 28, 2022.

James Schwenk, ‘62, July 12, 2022.

Mildred Gustafson Mehrkens, ‘62, Aug. 12, 2022.

Daniel Hubin, ‘62, Aug. 31, 2022.

Gary Drohman, ’62, May 23, 2022.

Richard Klug, ’62, May 21, 2022.

Jene Everson, ‘63, Oct. 18, 2022.

James Ticknor, ‘63, Oct. 31, 2022.

Julie Albrecht Frieburg, ’63, Feb. 22, 2022.

Wayne Kuss, ’63, March 29, 2022.

Clyde Smith, ’63, March 30, 2022.

Jane Frieburg, ‘64, Oct. 30, 2022.

David Diercks, ‘64, Nov. 18, 2022.

James Johnson, ’64, June 21, 2022.

Norman Olsen, ’64, April 29, 2022.

Glenn McNaughton, ’65, March 17, 2022.

Fay Bauer Andrews, ’66, Jan. 20, 2022.

John Gilbert, ‘66, Nov. 10, 2022.

John Giese, ‘66, Nov. 20, 2022.

Una Wright Craft, ’66, Jan. 2, 2022.

Gerald Dopkins, ’66, Jan. 19, 2022.

Elaine Owens, ’66, March 15, 2022.

Sheila Hillary Charlson, ’67, Feb. 8, 2022.

LuVerne Anderson, ‘67, Dec. 9, 2022.

Eugene Fall, ’67, Feb. 9, 2022.

Bruce Kamp, ’67, May 6, 2022.

DeeAnn Haugen Samshal, ’67, April 11, 2022.

David Reese, ’68, Jan. 25, 2022.

William Postiglione, ’69, May 27, 2022.

Gale Qualls, ’69, March 20, 2022.

university of wisconsin-river falls The Benefits of a

Charitable Bequest A charitable bequest is an easy way to help future generations of UWRF students.

Benefits of bequest giving include: • It costs you nothing today to make a bequest.

• A bequest is free of federal estate tax.

• Your bequest can be changed down the road.

• You can still benefit your heirs with specific gifts.

• A bequest may produce estate tax savings.

• You can leave a legacy through a bequest.

To learn more about bequest giving to UWRF, contact Kimberly Gould Speckman at 715-425-4212 or advancement@uwrf.edu. Ask for your free Guide to Planning Your Will or Trust. We are happy to assist you!

30 WWW.UWRF.EDU/ALUMNI

1970s Jerry Cognetta, ‘70, Aug. 1, 2022.

Elsie Arneson, ’70, March 25, 2022.

Kerry Grippen, ’70, March 23, 2022.

Raymond Hoerth, ’70, March 10, 2022.

Diane Horton, ’70, June 10, 2022.

Stanley Nickles, ’70, Jan. 28, 2022.

William Pippenger, ‘71, Aug. 17, 2022.

Alberta Seierstad, ‘71, Aug. 5, 2022.

Caryl Waterhouse Chambers, ’71, Feb. 14, 2022.

Michael Jensen, ’71, April 1, 2022.

Gary “Bruce” Monroe, ’71, Jan. 5, 2022.

John Ourada, ’71, Feb. 1, 2022.

David Valentine, ’71, March 19, 2022.

John Hilt, ’72, May 20, 2022.

James Kuhn, ’72, April 22, 2022.

Nancy Orgeman, ’72, April 12, 2022.

Stuart Rivard, ’73, April 13, 2022.

Eugene Eastlund, ’74, March 3, 2022.

Larry Eggenberger, ’74, Feb. 5, 2022.

Marshall Behling, ‘74, Sept. 19, 2022.

Michael Hansen, ’74, Jan. 16, 2022.

John Jorstad, ’74, Feb. 22, 2022.

David “Mel” Manthey, ’74, March 16, 2022.

Edward Rusch, ’75, Feb. 5, 2022.

Randy Schultz, ’75, April 14, 2022.

Karen Shelley Gavin, ’76, May 18, 2022.

Patricia Kahl Hancock, ’76, Jan. 31, 2022.

Sharyl Lamson Kittilson, ’77, March 17, 2022.

Karen Olson Sargent, ’77, May 27, 2022.

Dianna Wright Fehlen, ‘77, Sept. 1, 2022.

Roxane Johnson, ’78, May 8, 2022.

Craig Mitchell, ’78, April 7, 2022.

Barbara Pernsteiner Acker, ’79, March 19, 2022.

Donna Nackerud Foster, ’79, Jan. 29, 2022.

Daniel Strehlo, ‘79, March 7, 2022.

1980s Robert Radke, ’80, Feb. 13, 2022.

Okon Okon, ’81, Jan. 2, 2022.

James Wallin, ’81, March 10, 2022.

Wendy Evan Hastings, ’82, May 10, 2022.

Kathleen “Kathy” Carr Jensen, ’83, April 7, 2022.

Mary Proctor Clark, ’84, Jan. 8, 2022.

Nancy Kasa, ’84, Jan. 5, 2022.

James Smith, ’84, April 6, 2022.

Paul Wilker, ’85, March 21, 2022.

Kurtis Etherton, ’86, April 12, 2022.

Catherine Kunkle Leitch, ’86, March 17, 2022.

Thomas Frerich, ’87, Jan. 27, 2022.

Gary Hansen, ’88, June 7, 2022.

Roland Kirsch, ’88, May 20, 2022.

Christine Johnson Roth, ’88, June 15, 2022.

1990s James Geraets, ’90, May 31, 2022.

Joann James, ’90, April 3, 2022.

Deborah Varner Krentz, ’91, March 27, 2022.

Kristin Nolte Sperry, ’93, March 10, 2022.

Jane Wacker Zophy, ’96, April 10, 2022.

2000s Kathie Anderson, ’00, Feb. 11, 2022.

Barry Swanson, ’01, Jan. 2, 2022.

Please note Falcon Online provides updated Class Notes and Falcon Farewells every two months.

Robert (Bob) Coffman

Michael (Mike) Martin

Robert (Bob) Coffman, 63, died July 17, 2022. Bob served UW-River Falls for 34 years as a popular and respected mathematics professor, nine years as department chair.

Throughout his life Bob enjoyed camping, hiking, and biking with his family and friends. He always delighted in being outdoors and took special pleasure in stargazing. Bob is survived by his wife, Vicki, and daughters, Dena Coffman and Alice Coffman. Bob’s complete obituary is at https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/ twincities/name/robert-coffmanobituary?id=36281682

Michael (Mike) Martin, 53, died Jan. 28, 2022. Mike was UWRF’s senior student services coordinator in the College of Education and Professional Studies (CEPS).

He served UWRF for nearly 25 years, working tirelessly to help students, faculty, and staff alike. Martin’s knowledge of teacher education, CEPS and the university was immense.

Martin earned the Academic Staff Excellence Award in 2016 from the UW System Board of Regents. The award recognizes the dedicated work, vital services, and outstanding contributions of UW System’s non-instructional academic staff. A scholarship in Martin’s honor has been established by the UWRF Foundation. To donate to the Michael Martin Memorial Scholarship Fund, visit www.uwrf.edu/give/Michael-Martin-Memorial.cfm

Memorial donations can be directed to the Robert “Bob” Coffman Mathematics Scholarship at UWRF, either online (www.uwrf.edu/give/Bob-CoffmanMemorial.cfm) or by check mailed to: UW-River Falls Foundation, 118 North Hall, 410 S. 3rd St., River Falls, WI 54022. Include “Bob Coffman Mathematics Scholarship” on the memo line.

Bruce Larson Bruce Larson, 58, died Feb. 27, 2022. A football athlete and 1987 graduate of UWRF, Larson was a legendary high school football coach.

He led the Somerset High School football team to six state championship game appearances and three state titles in 22 seasons as the team’s head coach. In 2014, Larson was named the Wisconsin Coach of the Year and in 2015 was named the Don Shula NFL National Coach of the Year. The Friday after his passing high schools across Wisconsin and Minnesota lit up their football fields from 7 to 9 p.m. and posted pictures on Twitter using the hashtag LIGHTUPFORLARS.

Emogene Thibodeau Emogene Thibodeau, wife of former UWRF Chancellor Gary Thibodeau, died Dec. 5, 2022 in Oakdale, Minn., following a lengthy illness.

Emogene played an active role in Gary’s tenure as the university’s 12th chancellor from 1985-00.

Over the years, the Thibodeaus have maintained their engagement with UWRF, generously funding scholarships and supporting the university’s top priorities.

Before her death, Emogene requested that there not be a public service. She suggested that in lieu of flowers, donations be directed to the Thibodeau scholarship program at UWRF or an organization of the donor’s choice.

Emogene’s obituary can be found at www.uwrf.edu/News/Emogene-Johanna-McCarville-Thibodeau-December-5-2022.cfm FALCON FEATURES WINTER 2022-23

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UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT 112 South Hall 410 S. 3rd St. River Falls, WI 54022

UWRF Alumni Events Kalahari Resort UWRF Special, Jan. 19-22, 2023 University Theatre - The 39 Steps, Alumni Night, Feb. 1, 2023 Feed My Starving Children, Feb. 9, 2023 WI Day in Sun City, Arizona, March 10, 2023 Evening of Excellence, May 5, 2023 Spring Commencement, May 6, 2023 Move-in Day Volunteer, Sept. 2, 2023 St. Croix Boat Cruise, Sept. 26, 2023 Homecoming, Sept. 29, 2023 Hall of Fame, Sept. 29, 2023 Please visit our alumni page for up-to-date events, registration and times at www.uwrf.edu/Alumni/UpcomingEvents.cfm

Alumni Get-Togethers There’s nothing better than a Falcon gettogether! Want to make your gathering a little more spirited?

Simply let us know ahead of time and we’ll send a little Falcon swag to help you celebrate. When the festivities are over, send us a photo and you just might end up on the UWRF Alumni Facebook page!

Follow Us! facebook.com/uwrfalumniassociation twitter.com/uwrfalumni instagram.com/uwrfalumni

For additional event information: Contact University Advancement at 877-258-6647 (toll free), 715-425-3505, alumni@uwrf.edu or visit www.uwrf.edu/alumni