F ac u l ty / staff N e ws
Waldorf Honors Its Own On April 28, 2011, Waldorf faculty and staff and their families gathered for the Employee Recognition Dinner. Held in Waldorf’s Atrium, the event featured musical entertainment by students Anna Eggebraaten ’11, Laura Lindsay ’12 and Allen Mannes ’11. Twenty-four employees were honored for years of service. Biology professor Dr. Paul Bartelt topped the list with three decades of teaching Waldorf students. President Joe Manjone presented assistant professor of history and political science Blake Slonecker with the 2011 Holmen Award for Professional Excellence. Dr. Joe noted that Dr. Slonecker was named the Alpha Chi Professor of the Year in his first year on campus, and “his impressive scholastic endeavors have a deeply positive impact on his classroom.” Visibly moved, Dr. Slonecker said, “Waldorf is a place where much is expected of new faculty very quickly, but it’s also a place where recognition happens very quickly.” The 2011 Holmen Award for Community Service went to director of residence life Momo Wolapaye ’97. With his customary
dedication, Wolapaye was busy helping a student and missed the ceremony, causing dean of students Jason Ramaker to deliver a congratulatory speech to an empty stool. “Momo literally ‘lives’ Waldorf,” Ramaker said. “He is always positive and shows his belief in our community, values and religious faith through his actions, words and dignity.” Waldorf trustee Dr. Michael Hillyard presented the 2011 Board of Trustees Outstanding Faculty Award to Dr. Bob AuFrance, assistant professor of theatre and director of fine arts. “In an era when theater programs across the country are struggling, theatre at Waldorf College has become an integral part in the tapestry of daily academic life,” said Dr. Hillyard. “Dr. AuFrance has coupled 18-hour work days with a clear devotion to the mission of the college and his craft to challenge the prevailing winds of academia.” Obviously touched by the award, Dr. AuFrance thanked his fellow faculty members for their support, and noted that several of his students will be joining the American Shakespeare Company. ■
Years of Service Recognition
5
Christine Atwell, Mason Babcock, Al Eggebraaten, Cindy Fitzgerald, Chad Gassman, Lydia Gray, Laurin Lader, Anna Moklestad, Jason Ramaker, Glen Wegge, Momo Wolapaye, Greg Youngblood
Barkema, Mark Johnson, 10 Jodi Kris Juenger, Duane Moe, Sheila Willms, Vickie Zobel
15 Mary Mathiasen, Steve Smith Amelsberg, Becky Hill, 20 Jim Diane Korte 30 Paul Bartelt
Dr. Paul Bartelt (right) is honored for his three decades of educating Waldorf students.
Dr. Blake Slonecker (left) is presented with the Alpha Chi Professor of the Year award by President Joe Manjone.
New merchandise! VISIT: www.WaldorfBookstore.com
15
Dr. Robert AuFrance is honored by Dr. Michael Hillyard with the 2011 Board of Trustees Outstanding Faculty Award.