Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Saint Mary’s University receives Centennial congratulations from U.S. legislators

 WINONA, Minn. — Noting Saint Mary’s University for its “strong vision, “solid foundation” and “commitment to education,” the Minnesota Congressional Delegation has signed a congratulatory letter in honor of the university’s 2012-13 Centennial Celebration, expressing confidence Saint Mary’s will “continue to amaze” during its second century.

The letter, authored May 11, 2012, was signed by U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, U.S. Senator Al Franken, and U.S. Representatives Tim Walz, Chip Cravaack, Betty McCollum, John Kline, Erik Paulsen, Keith Ellison, Collin Peterson and Michele Bachmann.

“We as a nation strive to provide the type of world class education to our children that Saint Mary’s has been providing for the last century, and I was proud to recognize them for this tremendous milestone,” said Rep. Tim Walz. “As Saint Mary’s continues to grow their educational presence throughout Minnesota, the Midwest and internationally, their best days lie ahead, in the next 100 years.”

 The letter reads:

Dear Brother William: We, the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, write to congratulate Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota on its Centennial Celebration. Reaching this historic milestone is a tribute to the vision of Saint Mary’s founder, and first Bishop of Winona, Patrick Heffron. In 1912, the cornerstone of Saint Mary’s was set atop Terrace Heights surrounded by the beautiful bluffs in Winona. That founding was the result of a Catholic education movement taking shape in the state of Minnesota and beyond, which would go on to contribute in a significant way to making our citizens among the most well-educated in the world. 

In its first century, Saint Mary’s University has grown from a diocesan undergraduate college to become a top-tier national university. The undergraduate college continues to excel in producing well-educated and well-qualified graduates who exceed national benchmarks in graduate school acceptance and employment. The university is an innovator among private colleges in embracing the expansion of quality, flexible graduate and professional programs as a way to meet our economy’s need for an ever more sophisticated and well-prepared workforce. Saint Mary’s footprint has today expanded to two campuses and dozens of satellite locations in the upper Midwest, as well as abroad in Kenya and Jamaica. 

Saint Mary’s has always been guided by a strong vision to transform society one learner at a time, a manifestation of its Lasallian Catholic heritage. And in so doing, Saint Mary’s fulfills its mission to “empower learners to ethical lives of service and leadership.” 

Elected officials rarely try to predict the future, but the 2012 Minnesota Congressional Delegation can all agree that with a solid foundation and commitment to education, Saint Mary’s University will continue to amaze us during its second century.

“We are thankful for this timely recognition and for such kind words of praise from our congressional delegation,” said Brother William Mann, president of Saint Mary’s University. “Their letter acknowledges and affirms our global reach, our heritage of service and leadership, and our transformative programs. It means a great deal to us for our political leaders to acknowledge our successes as we launch our second century.”

May 30 marks the 100th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone for Saint Mary’s Hall, the first building constructed on Saint Mary’s Winona campus. On this day, a flag will be flown at the U.S. Capitol in honor of this occasion. This flag will be presented to Brother William Mann, university president, at Saint Mary’s official Centennial launch, June 23, on the Winona campus. The public is invited to the celebration.

MCA welcomes new managing director

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts welcomes new managing director Joelle Harris.

Harris was selected from a pool of candidates through a national search this spring. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Studies with a minor in vocal music from Capital University and a Master of Arts in Arts Administration and Non-Profit Management from the University of Akron. She previously served as the executive director of Columbus Children’s Theatre.

Harris will assume the position of managing director on June 1, following the departure of current director, Christine Martin. Martin has been involved with MCA since 1995 and has served as the managing director for the past 13 years.

“It has been an honor serving the students of MCA and our community,” said Martin, “I am so proud to have been a part of the program development over the years.” Martin will continue to teach in the dance division at MCA and serve as an advisor to the school through the Friends of MCA board.

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, a non-profit organization, began in 1973 in a one-room studio under the direction of Stefannié Valéncia Kierlin; it was then known as The Ballet School. Today, MCA offers a full spectrum of performing and visual arts, nurturing and encouraging artistic expression in hundreds of children and adults in Southeastern Minnesota.

“We here at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts and at Saint Mary’s owe Christine Martin a huge debt of gratitude,” said Michael Charron, dean of SMU’s School of the Arts. “For the past 17 years, she has not only kept Stefannié Valéncia Kierlin’s dream alive, but has advanced Stefannié’s vision of creating a comprehensive center for the arts, providing excellent training for people of all ages and walks of life. We’re also very excited about the talents and abilities Joelle Harris brings with her. She will continue to carry out Stefannié’s artistic vision into the future.”

For more information about MCA, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org or call (507) 453-5500.

Monday, May 21, 2012

WinCraft donates to SMU Row, Ride, Run triathlon

Richard Pope, chairman and CEO of WinCraft, left, and John Killen, president and chief operating officer of WinCraft, right, display items donated to the Saint Mary’s University Row, Ride, Run triathlon along with Chris McClead, triathlon organizer, and SMU students Abby Voigt and Gracie Hoffman.


WinCraft graciously donated hundreds of lanyards, race towels and fridge magnets, as well as clipboards and plaques, to Saint Mary’s University’s spring Row, Ride, Run triathlon.

The last triathlon took place Saturday, April 28, and approximately 150 athletes from throughout the Midwest registered. Row, Ride Run participants canoed or kayaked a 2.5-mile loop around Lake Winona, then biked 14 miles from Lake Winona to the SMU campus. Once on campus, racers ran 3.1 miles through the bluffs surrounding the university.

“WinCraft likes to support events that promote good health, education and events that benefit Winona,” said John Killen, president and chief operating officer of WinCraft. “The students of Saint Mary’s have done a great job of putting together the Row, Ride, Run to raise money for educational trips, and they promote a healthy lifestyle.”

Proceeds from the triathlon assist Serving Others United in Love (SOUL), a student organization sponsored by SMU’s Office of Campus Ministry. Through SOUL, students are able to connect with diverse communities by participating in national and international service trips.

 “WinCraft’s sponsorship has made Row, Ride, Run a significant triathlon in the tri-state area and helped us raise the necessary funds to allow all students — regardless of their financial status — to experience faith, community, service, and transformation on SOUL trips,” said Chris McClead, co-director of SMU’s Office of Campus Ministry and triathlon organizer.

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Saint Mary's honors students at Academic Awards Banquet

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University recognized outstanding senior students Thursday, April 26, at the annual Senior Academic Honors Banquet. Highlights of the evening included the announcement of graduate and professional school acceptances, grants and fellowships, and the awarding of the following special honors:

American Institute of Chemists Award (chemistry award) — Benjamin Ludescher, son of David and Nancy Ludescher of Northfield, Minn.  

American Chemical Society Award (chemistry award) and Future Alumni Committee Scholarship — Jill Spitzmueller, daughter of Bill and Kathy Spitzmueller of New Brighton, Minn.

Kevin Martineau Award (business award) — Yu Wang of China

Outstanding Accounting Major (business award) — Brian Dillon, son of William and Lisa Dillon of Arden Hills, Minn.

Outstanding International Business Student (business award) — Anne Drazkowski, daughter of Barry and Tammy Drazkowski of Fountain City, Wis.

Outstanding Entrepreneurship Student (business award) — Sheree Haslemore, daughter of Ross Haslemore of Gore Southland, New Zealand

Outstanding Human Resource Management Student (business award) — Samantha Otto, daughter of Bruce and Debra Otten of Buffalo, Wis.

Outstanding Sport Management Student (business award) — Thomas Healy, son of James and Julie Healy of Rolling Meadows, Ill.

Outstanding Marketing Majors (business award) — Amanda Gehrman, daughter of Guy Gehrman and Sandy Wiers of Stevens Point, Wis., and Joseph Rysavy, son of Laura Rysavy of North Aurora, Ill.

Saint Thomas Aquinas Award for Excellence (philosophy award) — Christopher Sindelar, son of Ron and Kathy Sindelar of Syracuse, Ind.

Father Andrew Fabian Scholarship (philosophy award) — Michael Pica, son of Jerry and Jane Pica of Champaign, Ill.

Gerald Sullivan Outstanding Theatre Major Award (theatre award) — Thomas Conry, son of Michael and Joanne Conry of Waunakee, Wis.

Grove Bree Holman Award (theatre award) — Jacob Rivet, son of William and Debra Rivet of Forest Lake, Minn.

Michael G. Flanagan Ghost Light Award (theatre award) — David Dean, son of John Dean and Yasmin Solares-Dean of Wayzata, Minn.

Brother Leo Northam Awards (math awards) — Long Chen of China, Justyna Kujtkowska of Poland and Yuanyuan (Jasmine) Wang of China

Lasallian Honors Program Outstanding Senior Awards — Samantha Dahlstrom, daughter of William and Roseanne Dahlstrom of Rochester, Minn., and Thomas Conry, son of Michael and Joanne Conry of Waunakee, Wis.

Delta Epsilon Sigma – Megan Hellman, daughter of Thomas and Diana Hellman of Oshkosh, Wis.

History Department Distinction Award and Brother J. Robert Lane Historical Essay Award — David Spriegel, son of William and Amanda Spriegel of Gurnee, Ill.

Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute for Women 2012 graduates — Mary Glenski, daughter of Patrick and Margaret Glenski of Rochester, Minn.; Maria Pechacek, daughter of Davia Mattson of Milwaukee, Wis.; and Amy Streit, daughter of Joe and Kathleen Streit of Oak Lawn, Ill.

Psychology Department Distinction Awards — Morgan Carlson, daughter of Wally and Darla Carlson of Theilman, Minn.; Bethany Hastings, daughter of James and Pam Hastings of Inver Grove Heights, Minn.; Kelsi Addabbo, daughter of Steven and Lenae Addabbo of Owatonna, Minn.; Allison Johnson, daughter of Richard and Michele Johnson of Austin, Minn.; Jamie Jones, daughter of Kathleen Jones of Omaha, Neb.; and Cassandra Berning, daughter of Roger and Mary Berning of Cuba City, Wis.

Monday, May 14, 2012

Saint Mary's honors Dick Kowles with Presidential Award

Dr. Dick Kowles, center, received a Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit from Michael Gostomski, left, chairman of the SMU Board of Trustees, and Brother William Mann, president of Saint Mary's.
WINONA, Minn. — A distinguished professor emeritus of biology, Winonan Dick Kowles, Ph.D., devoted 40 years to education and the sciences at Saint Mary’s University.

In recognition of his dedication and service, Dr. Kowles was presented with a Presidential Award for Outstanding Merit by Saint Mary’s at its undergraduate commencement ceremony May 12.

The award citation noted that Dr. Kowles has served the mission of Saint Mary’s in an exemplary manner and exhibits the characteristics of service and ethical leadership that the university strives to develop in all of its students.

Dr. Kowles was recognized for teaching, mentoring and inspiring thousands of biology students for more than 40 years and for securing more than 30 national and private grants for the advancement of science at SMU. Additionally, Dr. Kowles — renowned regionally and nationally as an expert in the field of genetics — has distinguished himself as both a researcher and a writer through the publications of books, textbooks and scientific articles.

A beloved colleague, department chair, mentor and friend, Dr. Kowles received the Brother Charles Severin Award for Teaching Excellence from Saint Mary’s in 1979, and the Minnesota Teacher of the Year Award from the Minnesota Academy of Science in 1984.

Thursday, May 10, 2012

New dean appointed for SMU School of Humanities and Sciences

WINONA, Minn. — Dr. Genevieve Robinson, a member of the Benedictine Order, has been named dean of Humanities and Sciences at Saint Mary’s University’s Winona campus.

She will assume the dean’s position on June 1. Dr. Robinson most recently served as dean of Undergraduate Studies at Fontbonne University in Saint Louis, Mo. Prior to her work at Fontbonne University, she spent 22 years at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Mo. Her administrative experience at Rockhurst University included serving as chair of the Department of History and the Division of Humanities, and as the director of the University Honors Program.

 Dr. Robinson will join Dr. Donna Aronson, vice president of Academic Affairs, and the three other College deans, Dr. Tom Marpe, Dr. Scott Sorvaag, and Michael Charron, on the SMU undergraduate college Academic Council.

Wednesday, May 09, 2012

Saint Mary’s presents service awards to students, faculty, staff

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University recognized outstanding students, faculty and staff Thursday, April 12, at the Student Life Awards Ceremony. Several awards were handed out to students who made a noticeable impact on student life at SMU. Awards included:

Brother Finbar McMullen Award (presented to an SMU community member who demonstrates him/herself to be an individual who unselfishly meets the needs of the undergraduate students of Saint Mary’s) — Tim Gossen, dean of students

Charlene “Char” Tjaden Outstanding Resident Assistant Award — John Soucheray, son of John and Kathleen Soucheray of Woodbury, Minn.

Club and Organization Advisor of the Year — Lance Thompson, assistant activities director

Organization of the Year — Open Mic Nite, accepted by Ben Scott, son of Mark and Sherri Scott of Rochester, Minn.

Intramural Official of the Year — Rachel Otten, daughter of Bruce and Debra Otten of Buffalo, Minn.

Volunteer Service Award — Stephanie Schaub, daughter of Steven and Mary Schaub of La Crosse, Wis., and Megan Linder, daughter of Don and Nancy Linder of Easton, Minn.

Outstanding Student Senator of the Year Award — Andy Bauer, son of Timothy and Nancy Bauer of Roswell, Ga.

Brother James Miller Award (presented to a student who has dedicated his/her college experience to promoting the legacy of Brother James Miller, spreading the compassion of God and continually serving the community) — Jill Spitzmueller, daughter of Bill and Kathy Spitzmueller of New Brighton, Minn., and Madelynn Kettner, daughter of Donald and Jeannine Kettner of La Crosse, Wis.

Student Service Award — Luis Escobar, son of Francia Acevedo and Santiago Escobar of Madelia, Minn.

Outdoor Leadership Recognition — Courtney Lee, daughter of Eric and Camille Lee, Apple Valley, Minn.

Brother Charlie Burke Award (presented to a faculty or staff member who has made significant contributions to the entire Student Life Department. This individual has promoted the growth of the whole student through their exemplary standard of ethical service, dedication to creating developmental relationships, and their desire to promote lifelong learning) — Ann Merchlewitz, executive vice president and general counsel

Saint Benilde Award (presented to students who reach out to new members of the university community, are inclusive and inspiring, and lead by being hospitable, open and accepting) — Amy Streit, daughter of Joe and Kathleen Streit of Oak Lawn, Ill., and Robert Rousseau, son of Richard and Paulet Rousseau of St. Paul.

Leadership Certificate (presented to students who have completed the co-curricular program designed to give both emerging and advanced leaders the skills and knowledge to enhance his or her leadership development) — Riley Sinn, daughter of Ruth and Philip Sinn of Apple Valley; Julianne Bartosz, daughter of Jeff and Leslie Bartosz of Mokena, Ill.; Morgan Carlson, daughter of Wally and Darla Carlson of Theilman, Minn.; Sara McNary, daughter of William and Donna McNary of De Forest, Wis.; Abby Ross, daughter of Bradley and Sidnie Ross of Blaine; Danielle Strebel, daughter of Dan and Mary Strebel of Green Bay, Wis., Chris Froelich, daughter of Ken and Patricia Froelich of Cottage Grove; Mae Yang, daughter of Yeng and Panee Yang of Minneapolis; Katherine Wall, daughter of Michael and Michelle Wall of Batavia, Ill., Stephanie Schaub, daughter of Steven and Mary Schaub of La Crosse, Wis.; and Julie Pierce, daughter of John and Lisa Ingram of Minneapolis.

Saint Mary’s University Winona campus commencement list 2012 Undergraduates (completing B.A. degrees)

These undergraduate students are candidates for graduation between December 2011 and August 2012 at Saint Mary's University and will receive Bachelor of Arts degrees. Commencement ceremonies on the Winona campus are Saturday, May 12.

Kelsi Addabbo Owatonna Minn.
Jessica Adducci Woodbury Minn.
Sarah Adie Chanhassen Minn.
Jessica Alcazar Chicago Ill.
Margaret Allexsaht Minneapolis Minn.
Andrea Allis Wells Minn.
Adjovi Amouzou Brooklyn Park Minn.
James Andrews Eden Prairie Minn.
Andrew Anger South Milwaukee Wis.
Luke Baertlein Mazeppa Minn.
Lauren Baier Mount Horeb Wis.
Jennifer Baldwin Eden Prairie Minn.
Brittany Barnes Fairmont Minn.
Anthony Bartylla Woodbury Minn.
Richard Baustian Dell Rapids S.D.
Meg Beerling Bloomington Minn.
Gerard Begg Winona Minn.
Alexa Bergler Winona Minn.
Cassandra Berning Cuba City Wis.
Sarah Bignell Wabasha Minn.
Alex Bilski Fridley Minn.
Ellen Bina St. Paul Minn.
Alphonse Bizimana Winona Minn.
Michael Blanda Oakdale Minn.
Brett Blondin Saint Charles Ill.
Ashley Blum Buffalo City Wis.
Melinda Boettger Owatonna Minn.
Jarod Boltjes Worthington Minn.
David Borgen Red Wing Minn.
Jill Borntrager Elk River Minn.
Jessica Bouska Chatfield Minn.
Elizabeth Bradford Whitefish Bay Wis.
Alex Braun Darwin Minn.
Heather Brevig Rushford Minn.
Alyssa Brletich Lakeville Minn.
Kelsey Brown Elk River Minn.
Riley Brown Saint Paul Minn.
Kassondra Burtis Fairmont Minn.
Joseph Bush Chicago Ill.
Timothy Cahalan Saint Paul Minn.
Samuel Callisto Woodbury Minn.
Gabrielle Cantore Chicago Ill.
Jenna Capelle Rochester Minn.
Steven Carlevato Woodridge Ill.
Jacob Carlson Dell Rapids S.D.
Morgan Carlson Theilman Minn.
Michelle Carne Escanaba Mich.
Andrea Caruso Mendota Heights Minn.
Yue Chang Yancheng China
Blaine Chaulklin Cashton Wis.
Long Chen Mian xian County China
Grace Christensen Mendota Heights Minn.
Nicole Ciulla Plover Wis.
Tracy Clammer West Concord Minn.
Jacob Clapham Kasson Minn.
Sheri Clark Eagan Minn.
Caitlyn Cole Larsen Wis.
Sean Coleman Chicago Ill.
Kelsey Collins Apple Valley Minn.
Jillian Congdon Saint Paul Minn.
Thomas Conry Waunakee Wis.
Margaret Mary Conway Woodstock Ill.
Danielle Cossetta Inver Grove Hgts Minn.
Samantha Dahlstrom Rochester Minn.
Chelseanne Davidson Stacy Minn.
Daniel Davis Ossian Ind.
David Dean Wayzata Minn.
Emily Degallier Fountain City Wis.
Brittany DeGrood Faribault Minn.
Jonathan Delwiche Andover Minn.
Paul Dettling Roseville Minn.
Emily DeWitt Lino Lakes Minn.
Melissa Diercks Red Wing Minn.
Brian Dillon Arden Hills Minn.
Michael Dold St. Cloud Minn.
Anne Drazkowski Winona Minn.
Brian Driscoll De Pere Wis.
John Dwyer Minnetonka Minn.
Bailey Edwards Fond Du Lac Wis.
Rachel Elbert Cedar Falls Iowa
Grady Erickson Lakeland Minn.
Vincent Erspamer Cottage Grove Minn.
Luis Escobar Madelia Minn.
Santiago Escobar Madelia Minn.
Darrell Fair Woodridge Ill.
Nikki Farmer Medford Wis.
David Feather Oak Creek Wis.
Maxwell Ferguson Arcadia Wis.
Stefanie Fiek Rochester Minn.
Elizabeth Flynn Mahtomedi Minn.
Gregory Freeman Aurora Ill.
Patrick Freeman Brooklyn Park Minn.
Christopher Froelich Cottage Grove Minn.
Kristine Froseth Owatonna Minn.
Erin Gallagher Woodbury Minn.
Acacia Gammage Columbia Heights Minn.
Kathryn Gannon Roselle Ill.
Anne Garrigan Orland Park Ill.
Robert Gas Lake Zurich Ill.
Rachel Gates-Vickery New Brighton Minn.
Kacey Gavin Brookfield Ill.
Amanda Gehrman Stevens Point Wis.
Daniel Geraghty Park Ridge Ill.
Ashley Gernes Lake Elmo Minn.
Brent Gessner Prior Lake Minn.
Cullen Gibbons Circle Pines Minn.
Jessica Giers Winona Minn.
Mary Glenski Rochester Minn.
Roderick Goolsby Chicago Ill.
Matthew Gorgone Greenville R.I.
Emily Gould Bloomington Minn.
Scott Graphenteen Minnetrista Minn.
Sarah Grundhoefer West Saint Paul Minn.
Kristine Guse Red Wing Minn.
Jessica Gutterman St. Paul Minn.
Jacob Haagenson Richfield Minn.
Alyssa Habberstad La Crescent Minn.
Jared Haider Forest Lake Minn.
Kevin Halpin Bartlett Ill.
Hannah Hansen Lake Forest Ill.
Keisha Harcey Wykoff Minn.
Maria Harris Saint Paul Minn.
Regina Harris Danville Ky.
Sheree Haslemore Gore New Zealand
Bethany Hastings Inver Grove Hgts Minn.
Sarah Haynes Chicago Ill.
Neil Heacox San Diego Calif.
Thomas Healy Rolling Meadows Ill.
Megan Hellmann Oshkosh Wis.
Joseph Henry Hastings Minn.
Timothy High Goodview Va.
Andrea Hoglin Burnsville Minn.
Krin Hoiland Rushford Minn.
Anna Holley Lakeville Minn.
Timothy Hopkins Westchester Ill.
Ashley House-Mischke Brooklyn Park Minn.
Cassandra Hulett Milwaukee Wis.
Erika Hurley Chatfield Minn.
Ann Ivansek Riverside Ill.
Andrew Jambura Wauwatosa Wis.
Meghan Jensen Claremont Minn.
Paige Jenson Lake Park Minn.
Luyi Jin Beijing China
Allison Johnson Austin Minn.
Anna Johnson Austin Minn.
Tiearra Johnson Justice Ill.
Jamie Jones Omaha Neb.
Sarah Jorgenson Cottage Grove Minn.
Paula Jungbauer Lakeville Minn.
Cree Kachelski Elgin Minn.
Mary Karnick Tomball Texas
Laura Kay Rush City Minn.
Katelin Keck Prior Lake Minn.
Bridget Kelly Middleton Wis.
John Kelly Rochester Minn.
Sarah Kennedy Wayzata Minn.
Madelynn Kettner La Crosse Wis.
Peter Kieffer La Crosse Wis.
Kyle Klein Winona Minn.
Sarah Kraft Rochester Minn.
Dana Kreuser Maplewood Minn.
Melanie Krivachek Fort Atkinson Iowa
Meaghan Kroeber Mankato Minn.
Amy Kujak River Falls Wis.
Justyna Kujtkowska Bogaczow Poland
Jeffery Kundinger Forest Lake Minn.
Timothy Kunkel Northfield Ill.
Jessica LaCanne Faribault Minn.
Patrick Lafond Batavia Ill.
Sophia Lam Burnsville Minn.
Jon Lamphere Shakopee Minn.
Maria Lanari Delano Minn.
Laura Larson Pine Island Minn.
Courtney Lee Apple Valley Minn.
Joshua Lentner Sauk Rapids Minn.
Madeline Lenz White Bear Lake Minn.
Yuepeng Li Beijing China
Ashley Lien Cottage Grove Minn.
Megan Linder Easton Minn.
Adam Lindsay Fremont Wis.
Heidi Loeffler Maple Grove Minn.
Justin Loeffler Winona Minn.
Brandon Lovera-Ives Minneapolis Minn.
Benjamin Ludescher Northfield Minn.
Adam Lueck Winona Minn.
Patrick Luke Apple Valley Minn.
Diana Lundeen Roseville Minn.
Joel Lynch Hastings Minn.
Cory Madison Cottonwood Minn.
Chase Marshall Big Lake Minn.
Katelynn Martin Lyle Minn.
Shelby Martin Eagan Minn.
Mitchell May Saint Cloud Minn.
Becca McCoy La Crescent Minn.
Timothy McDonald Ham Lake Minn.
Bridget McDonough Des Plaines Ill.
Robert McElherne Hinsdale Ill.
Colin McGlynn St. Louis Mo.
James McGuire Saint Paul Minn.
Robert McGuire Rochester Minn.
Carissa McMoore Apple Valley Minn.
Ania McNamara Tampa Fla.
Maurissa McNellis South St Paul Minn.
Derrek Mikacevich Inver Grove Hts Minn.
Joanna Mills New Boston Ill.
Michael Mockler Dubuque Iowa
Harris Moses Crystal Minn.
Marcy Mueller De Witt Iowa
Emily Munns St. Paul Minn.
Melissa Murphy Plymouth Minn.
Joseph Nadeau Winona Minn.
Brianna Nelson Ham Lake Minn.
Laura Nolte Owatonna Minn.
Breanna Olson Byron Minn.
Nicole Olson New Brighton Minn.
Jeanne Olstad Winona Minn.
Heather Osen Rogers Minn.
Michael Ostman Saint Michael Minn.
Rachel Otten Buffalo Minn.
Samantha Otto Hampton Minn.
Kayla Palacios Torres Chicago Ill.
Maria Pechacek Milwaukee Wis.
Brian Pederson Winona Minn.
Nathan Peterson Kenai Alaska
Michael Pica Champaign Ill.
Matthew Polum Apple Valley Minn.
Laura Polzin Burnsville Minn.
Jaclyn Prondzinski Galesville Wis.
Gia Puch Des Plaines Ill.
Frank Pullia Westmont Ill.
James Purintun River Falls Wis.
Regina Quandt Minneapolis Minn.
Matthew Rebernick Wauwatosa Wis.
Tallitha Reese Hillsboro Wis.
Erin Regan Stillwater Minn.
Matthew Regan Crookston Minn.
Joel Reinhart La Crosse Wis.
Christopher Rice Saint Cloud Minn.
Joseph Richards La Crosse Wis.
Jennifer Rietzler Madison Wis.
Tyler Ringeisen Cannon Falls Minn.
Jacob Rivet Forest Lake Minn.
Kristen Robatcek Cambridge Minn.
Tesla Rodriquez Winona Minn.
Dustin Roering Mahtomedi Minn.
Stephen Ronchak Roseville Minn.
Abigail Ross Blaine Minn.
Valerie Ross Hastings Minn.
Robert Rousseau Saint Paul Minn.
Joseph Rysavy Burnsville Minn.
Chelsea Sadergaski Hudson Wis.
Amalia Santos Waukesha Wis.
Stephanie Schaub La Crosse Wis.
Samuel Schepers Chaska Minn.
Stephen Schmidt Shoreview Minn.
Felicia Schneider Maplewood Minn.
Kelsey Schneider Portland Ore.;
Danielle Scholbrock Potosi Wis.
Klarissa Schoppers Spring Valley Minn.
Jennifer Schrankler Cottage Grove Minn.
Nicholas Schuld Bloomingdale Ill.
Benjamin Scott Rochester Minn.
Andrew Seifert Andover Minn.
Christopher Sindelar Syracuse Ind.
Zackary Sisk Tremont Ill.
Christopher Speltz Arcadia Wis.
Daniel Spiess Roseville Minn.
Jill Spitzmueller New Brighton Minn.
David Spriegel Gurnee Ill.
Trisha Stachowski Mahtomedi Minn.
Daniel Stark Saint Paul Minn.
Lauren Steffen Lilydale Minn.
Daniel Steiner Bartonville Ill.
Emma Stenzel Alden Minn.
Allison Stephens Golden Valley Minn.
Lauren Stiehl Cannon Falls Minn.
Marie Stier Chatfield Minn.
Morgan Stock Amboy Minn.
Danielle Strebel Green Bay Wis.
Amy Streit Oak Lawn Ill.
Stephanie Sturges Woodbury Minn.
Kristina Swanberg Oakdale Minn.
Curtis Swanson Woodbury Minn.
Julie Swiderek Palos Park Ill.
Rachel Terwey Stillwater Minn.
Nou Thao Vadnais Hts Minn.
Anthony Thelen Stockton Minn.
Thomas Thielen Park Rapids Minn.
Jeffrey Thomas Excelsior Minn.
Ethan Thompson Kellogg Minn.
Linda Tierney Cloquet Minn.
Lauren Ulbrich Rochester Minn.
Vincent Unklesbay Maplewood Minn.
Amanda Van Leeuwe Ghent Minn.
Kelsey Vasko Stillwater Minn.
Juamaine Venter Rochester Minn.
Emily Vierling Roseville Minn.
Margaret Villaume Eagan Minn.
Abby Voigt Burnsville Minn.
Alexa Wallick Eagan Minn.
Jacob Wanek Winona Minn.
Yu Wang Kunming China
Yuanyuan Wang Xi'an China
David Weir Oswego Ill.
Rebecca Welch La Crescent Minn.
Cory Wessels Earlville Iowa
Mariah White Winona Minn.
Bradley Wildenborg Winona Minn.
Tyler Will Harris Minn.
Charles Williams Eagan Minn.
Christopher Williams Chicago Ill.
Jayne Wittry Urbandale Iowa
Timothy Wojcicki Bloomingdale Ill.
Yongyu Zhu Jianysu China

Saint Mary’s University Commencement list 2012 Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs, Winona

The following students are candidates for graduation from Saint Mary's University's Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs and will commence in Winona Saturday, May 12.

Bernadette Acocella Hackettstown N.J.
Mary Aguilar Coon Rapids Minn.
Belinda Agyapong Winona Minn.
Kellie Allman Saint Paul Minn.
Rachel Anhalt Prior Lake Minn.
Paul Arens Saint Cloud Minn.
Rachel Arens Saint Cloud Minn.
Jason Barker Winona Minn.
Robert Barros-Bailey Boise Idaho
Jesse Bastyr New Prague Minn.
Jody Baures Fountain City Wis.
Mary Beals Kansas City Mo.
Tracey Beaverson Robbinsdale Minn.
Kathleen Beiswenger Maple Wis.
Malea Bergeson Sartell Minn.
Brigitta Bergquist Big Lake Minn.
Lori Bernstrom Burnsville Minn.
Nathan Beske Winona Minn.
Janice Black Jamaica
Paulete Blackwood Jamaica
Peta-Gaye Blake-Campbell Jamaica
Judith Boswell Jamaica
Alexander Bourne Jamaica
Sarah Brackemyer Hudson Wis.
Melvin Brandenburg Winona Minn.
Tucker Branham Charleston S.C.
Katherine Broach Marlborough Mass.
Jacqueline Bryan Jamaica
Jay Burfield Bennett Wis.
Colleen Burns St. Paul Minn.
Carol Carlson Plymouth Minn.
Khelsey Ceaser Minnetonka Minn.
Chia-Lin Chao Winona Minn.
David Chapin Burnaby B.C., Canada
Anna Cherney Duluth Minn.
Kari Christensen Faribault Minn.
Kyle Christopherson Vadnais Heights Minn.
Lindsey Cliff Rochester Minn.
Anne Conway Minnesota City Minn.
Maren Coulter Hudson Wis.
Abbie Cox Minneapolis Minn.
Molly Cox Blaine Minn.
Christopher Cremons North Oaks Minn.
Jeffrey Crosby Mounds View Minn.
Heather Danich Eagan Minn.
Lindsey Danielson Hager City Wis.
Tyler Danielson Winona Minn.
Pamella Davis Jamaica
Scott Dodge Bountiful Utah
Cynthia Dorman Grand Rapids Mich.
Verna Douglas Jamaica
Marisa Dronen Tempe Ariz.
Matthew Drucker Winona Minn.
Cara Dubsky Saint Cloud Minn.
Ruth Dubuque New Brighton Minn.
Dwayne Dyce Jamaica
Emilia Effiom Woodbury Minn.
Shannon Ehler-Vickerman Mabel Minn.
Susan Elsass Saint Paul Minn.
Susan Erstad Lakeville Minn.
Patrick Estey Chilliwack B.C.
Abby Eversman Big Lake Minn.
Shawna Feist Andover Minn.
Stephanie Feld Elk River Minn.
Benjamin Ficklin Minneapolis Minn.
Kevin Flottmeyer La Crosse Wis.
Princess Forbes Jamaica
Keith Fox Kennesaw Ga.
Lorren Fraser Jamaica
Carlie Frederixon Whitehall Wis.
Sally Frisby Galesville Wis.
Jed Frovik Apple Valley Minn.
Rochelle Gathje Lanesboro Minn.
Sara Geller Chaska Minn.
John Gerads Buffalo Minn.
Ellen Gevers White Bear Lake Minn.
Jane Gile Buffalo Minn.
Lisa Goihl Lake City Minn.
Michelle Gossen Ogilvie Minn.
Jeffrey Goudy Buffalo Minn.
Todd Goudy Montrose Minn.
Jeffrey Grabow Farmington Minn.
Emily Greeley Buffalo Minn.
Charlotte Gregoire Marshall Minn.
Kelly Gross Inver Grove Hgts. Minn.
Andrea Guderian Poplar Wis.
Stacy-Ann Gunter Jamaica
Bryanna Guy Holmen Wis.
Cheryl Hadaway Rochester Minn.
Timothy Hahn Elk River Minn.
Samuel Haines Trempealeau Wis.
Sharon Hamilton Jamaica
Melissa Hammer St. Cloud Minn.
Margaret Hanley Austin Texas
Ryan Hanson Cloquet Minn.
Emily Harper Altura Minn.
Kimberly Harper Minneapolis Minn.
Joyce Headlam Jamaica
Antonette Headley Jamaica
Catherine Hebert Minnesota City Minn.
Natasha Hegna Champlin Minn.
Todd Heinonen Maple Lake Minn.
Angela Henry Buffalo Minn.
Gracie-Ann Henry-Morris Jamaica
Rebecca Herbert Elk River Minn.
Ashley Herold Minneapolis Minn.
Kathleen Hertwig Otsego Minn.
Robert Higginbotham Ham Lake Minn.
Karen Hill-Chow Calgary A.B., Canada
Catherine Holland La Crosse Wis.
Lauretta Holtz Willmar Minn.
Frederick Hoops Woodbury Minn.
Scott Hornberg Winona Minn.
Condello Hostetler Andover Minn.
Nicole Howard Fountain Minn.
Libby Huettl Lakeville Minn.
Kelly Hurd Anchorage Alaska
Marybeth Jacob Two Harbors Minn.
Susan Jacobsen-Boyce Rogers Minn.
Brittany Janis San Francisco Calif.
Kelly Jobin Hermantown Minn.
David Johnson Winona Minn.
Weston Johnson Anoka Minn.
Faye Johnson Elk River Minn.
Kim Johnson Coon Rapids Minn.
Lindsay Johnson Minnetonka Minn.
Thomas Johnston Sartell Minn.
Ward Kaiser Silver Bay Minn.
Angela Kalthoff Richmond Minn.
Rachel Karel Shoreview Minn.
Rebecca Karna Buffalo Minn.
Adam Kemptar Esko Minn.
Lindsey Kennedy Coon Rapids Minn.
Matthew Kennedy Shakopee Minn.
Sarah Klocke Finlayson Minn.
Adrian Kolpitcke Holmen Wis.
Michelle Koren Buffalo Minn.
Anjanette Kraus Little Falls Minn.
Zackary Kruger Owatonna Minn.
Amber Kulig Holmen Wis.
Jessica Kuntz Little Canada Minn.
Hsiao-Jung Kuo Sinying City Taiwan
Mary Kurt Eagan Minn.
Christine Lawrence-Blair Jamaica
Amanda Leopold Superior Wis.
Shannon Lepper Milaca Minn.
Lisa Levi Pine Island Minn.
Yuming Li Yulin Shaanxi, China
Michelle Lindell Shakopee Minn.
Tianshun Liu Winona Minn.
Abigail Lloyd Minneapolis Minn.
Joel Lund Cambridge Minn.
Michelle Lyrenmann Foley Minn.
Amy Mack Lake Nebagamon Wis.
Bonnie Maffitt Rochester Minn.
Mary Malrick Mounds View Minn.
Tracy Mankowski Oakdale Minn.
Meghan Marthaler Superior Wis.
Marco Martinez White Bear Lake Minn.
Heather Mathews Hudson Wis.
Margaret Matthews Jamaica
Kelly May Bloomington Minn.
William McDonald Watertown Minn.
Angela McKenzie Jamaica
Felecia McLaughlin Jamaica
Andrea McMillen Silver Bay Minn.
Laurie McNallie Albertville Minn.
Rachael McNary Cannon Falls Minn.
Michelle Melquist Cokato Minn.
Robert Merthan St. Paul Minn.
Sandra Meyerson Montrose Minn.
Jennifer Mishler Lino Lakes Minn.
Diana Moran La Crosse Wis.
Heather Moreno Saint Paul Minn.
Kim Moulzolf Mounds View Minn.
Cynthia Mueller Buffalo Minn.
Kimberly Mungaray Saint Augustine Fla.
Kelli Nelson St. Louis Park Minn.
Sara Nelson St. Louis Park Minn.
Everton Nelson Jamaica
Emily Nitti Macias Maple Grove Minn.
Laura Noll Goodview Minn.
Kjersti Olson Saint Michael Minn.
Bridget Opitz Albertville Minn.
Jamie Otterblad Two Harbors Minn.
Sarah Pavek Golden Valley Minn.
Gwen Paxon Las Vegas Nev.
Catherine Pazandak Saint Cloud Minn.
Joanna Pederson Mantorville Minn.
Michael Pendleton Oakdale Minn.
Melanie Pesarchick Saint Paul Minn.
Jenna Peters River Falls Wis.
Jerry Petersen Winona Minn.
Rachel Peterson Superior Wis.
Adam Peterson Rosemount Minn.
Christopher Peterson Minneapolis Minn.
Kelly Peterson Maple Grove Minn.
Meri-Ruth Pflughoeft Winona Minn.
Anthony Piscitiello New York N.Y.
Susana Piscitiello New York N.Y.
Katherine Pleskonko Rochester Minn.
Jerry Popowski St Louis Park Minn.
Andrew Poterucha Rochester Minn.
Jacob Poulsen Corcoran Minn.
Timothy Prescott St. Paul Minn.
Linda Pulchinski Austin Minn.
Lana Puttkammer Duluth Minn.
Alison Puttonen Minneapolis Minn.
Michelle Quinn Onalaska Wis.
Peter Rand Buffalo Minn.
Aaron Ratz Altura Minn.
Kylee Ray Sartell Minn.
Kerry-Ann Reid-Simpson Jamaica
Lindsay Reistad Hugo Minn.
Emily Revak Eau Claire Wis.
Kala Richards Fergus Falls Minn.
Elizabeth Riley Omaha Neb.
Jacalyn Ring Duluth Minn.
Shernette Robinson Jamaica
Anne Marie Roden-Bergman Duluth Minn.
Betty Rogers Onamia Minn.
Paul Rosenblum Charleston S.C.
JaLene Rosengren Maple Grove Minn.
Kyle Ryan Saint Paul Minn.
Pauline Salmon Jamaica
Marit Salveson Saint Paul Minn.
Jacqueline Samuels-Williams Jamaica
Katie Saucier St Paul Park Minn.
Penny Schafer Holmen Wis.
Jeffrey Scheuermann Eau Claire Wis.
Kristin Schlingman New Market Minn.
Kandy Schroer Coon Rapids Minn.
Jacob Scott Anoka Minn.
John Sebald Phoenix Ariz.
Paige Segerstrom Spring Valley Wis.
Nan Shang
Kelly Shaughnessy
Xi'an
Hastings
China
Minn.
Lorain Shaw Jamaica
Sasha Shimhue-Battiste Jamaica
Cynthia Shore Coon Rapids Minn.
Yolette Sibblies Jamaica
Kay Sikich Apple Valley Minn.
Kellie Simons Richfield Minn.
Serey Sinn Calgary A.B., Canada
Michelle Slaughter Covington Ken.
Ann Smith Jamaica
Lorna Smith-Wilson Jamaica
Jonathan Sopcak Streamwood Ill.
Kevin Stark Winona Minn.
Rebecca Starks Duluth Minn.
Benjamin Starns Maple Grove Minn.
Anne Stauffenecker Brooklyn Park Minn.
Angela Sterry Bloomington Minn.
Callie Strop Jordan Minn.
Theodore Strub Maplewood Minn.
Jennifer Sullivan Superior Wis.
Mindy Swanson Buffalo Minn.
Heather Sward Cambridge Minn.
Carolynn Sween Waterloo Iowa
Leslee Swenson Owatonna Minn.
Ronda Sylvester Rogers Minn.
Kristopher Szajner Eyota Minn.
Jody Tellinghuisen Mound Minn.
Colette Thelen Minnetrista Minn.
Benjamin Thell Big Lake Minn.
Lindsey Thomas Blaine Minn.
Marian Thomas Jamaica
Carie Thompson Mondovi Wis.
Anya Thompson Jamaica
Amanda Trautt Poplar Wis.
Nathan Truitt Alexandria Va.
Christopher Turner Jamaica
Jody Udstuen Mora Minn.
Denine Voegeli Winona Minn.
Nicole Vos Sartell Minn.
Gretchen Wahl Ramsey Minn.
Dezerine Walker-Henry Jamaica
Keisha Waller Jamaica
Clarissa Wangerin Superior Wis.
Marlene Watson Jamaica
Kristin Welsh Rochester Minn.
Katie Whittlef Bloomington Minn.
Adam Wilder Mabel Minn.
Min Yang Guangzhou China
Jing Yang Hegang China
Feng Yu Shengzhou China
Zhejiang Rui Zhang Xi'an China
Amy Zinmer Brule Wis.

Tuesday, May 08, 2012

Matching grant helps SMU First-Generation Initiative raise $250,000 for scholarships

WINONA, Minn. — Through a generous matching grant, Rochester benefactors Jack and Mary Ann Remick have helped Saint Mary’s University raise $250,000 for First-Generation Initiative scholarships in 2012.

In January, the Remicks, longtime supporters of Saint Mary’s, gifted the university a $100,000 matching grant to raise funds for the First-Generation Initiative. This program provides full scholarships — and continuous support — to low-income, high-potential, qualified students, with preference given to Saint Mary’s Lasallian partner schools.

Brother Ed Siderewicz, director of the First-Generation Initiative, said that by early April the university met the $100,000 challenge and surpassed it, bringing the current total to approximately $250,000.

“Mary Ann Remick is chair of our First-Generation Advisory Board,” Siderewicz said. “She wanted others to learn about and consider supporting the program. These generous funds enable us to make commitments this fall to a new group of First-Generation students who would otherwise never have the opportunity to go to college.

“Working with inner-city high schools,” he said, “we identify promising minority youth who are at risk of dropping out of school, largely because of their dangerous environment, under-resourced communities, and lack of understanding about how higher education opportunities can be accessed.”

After identifying the best candidates as early as the ninth grade, Saint Mary’s invites these students to spend a portion of each summer at the Winona campus Countdown to College Program. When they obtain their high school diplomas, these students are then eligible for a full college scholarship.

Although First-Generation students are mainstreamed, they also have the specialized academic and social support they need to excel in school.

To learn more about the First-Generation Initiative, contact Siderewicz at esiderew@smumn.edu or (507) 457-6683. To read more about this program, go to www.firsgenerationstories.org.

Monday, May 07, 2012

Big, Little Pals host end-of-the-year picnic

Saint Mary’s University student Sara Haecherl plays kickball with one of the “Little Pals” she and other SMU students work with throughout the year.
The Big and Little Pals organization at Saint Mary’s University enjoyed an end-of-the-year picnic April 26. About 50 Saint Mary’s students meet once a week with at-risk second- through fifth-graders from the Winona community. To celebrate the end of the year, their “little pals” joined them on campus for a barbecue, inflatable toys and games. The program is a collaboration with Winona Area Public Schools. Throughout the year, SMU students develop a positive relationship with their pals by nurturing their academic, social and emotional stability.

Thursday, May 03, 2012

SMU Cardinal Corner raises $358 for veteran alum



WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University business students raised $358 for veteran alumnus Josh Misiewicz, the 2012 recipient of the Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance. Misiewicz of La Grange, Ill., attended Saint Mary’s from 2006-2008. In July 2011, Lance Corporal Misiewicz lost both of his legs while serving in Afghanistan.

Each semester, undergraduate entrepreneurship students manage a not-for-profit retail store located in a small corner of the basement of Toner Student Center, aptly named the Cardinal Corner. Students choose products to sell in the store, garner donations from around campus, and sell items for on-campus organizations as part of the entrepreneurship major.

Each semester the members of the class choose a different charity to which profits are donated. SMU’s entrepreneurship students have continued to choose charities that are near and dear to the heart of a fellow classmate, or charities that benefit the SMU community. Profits from previous semesters have been donated to the Winona Area Humane Society, Haiti Medical Mission of Wisconsin, Dom Dziecka (a children’s orphanage in Chotomów, Poland) and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Minnesota.

For more information on the Cardinal Corner or to present your request to the class to be considered as the charity of choice for the fall semester, contact Jana Craft at (507) 457-1491 or jcraft@smumn.edu. Become a fan and receive the latest updates at www.facebook.com/cardinalcorner.

MCA spring classes begin May 7

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts spring dance, music, and visual art classes begin Monday, May 7, at the Valéncia Arts Center, 1164 West 10th St.

A variety of classes are available for children and adults, ranging from recreation classes to pre-professional training. The MCA Visual Art division offers Drawing the Still Life, a class for teen and adults to explore the art of drawing still life using versatile charcoal techniques.

Dance division spring offerings include: Creative Movement, Modern I-II, Contemporary Dance Workshops, Nia, Tap and Jazz for Kids, National Tap and Dance Workshops for Tap II and Tap III-IV, Junior Hip Hop, Hip Hop I-II, Boys Dance Technique, Pre Ballet, Pre Ballet I, Ballet II, Ballet III-IV, Classical Package for Ballet V, VI, VII and a new Dance for Skaters class.

Music division offerings include: Creative Music and Movement, Music Explorers, Musicman Junior, Flute Choir I, Flute Choir II as well as private lesson instruction in flute, clarinet, saxophone, violin, cello, piano, guitar, banjo, mandolin, and voice.

Creative Music and Movement, an introduction to the music and dance class setting through voice, song, rhythm, and dance for 3- and 4-years-olds is offered in collaboration with the MCA dance and music divisions. This class is offered opposite of the adult fitness class Nia. Nia offers a dynamic blend of dance arts, martial arts and healing arts using music, movement, and self-expression to help students discover optimum health of body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Parents can enjoy a great workout while their child enjoys Creative Music and Movement, Tuesdays, May 8, 15, 22, June 5, 12, and 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Adults who have a child enrolled in an MCA spring or summer class or camp can participate in a class of their own tuition-free through the MCA Adult Arts Wellness program. Adult classes choices for spring include: Nia, Teen and Adult Tap and Jazz, Flute Choir I, Flute Choir II, and Drawing the Still Life. Additional summer course offers for adults include Guitar Class I, Guitar Class II, Nia, Power Piyo, Clogging I, Clogging II, Teen and Adult Ballet, and Teen and Adult Irish Dance. Class days, times, and tuition vary. Financial need-based scholarships are available.

For a brochure and complete listing, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org or call (507) 453-5500. Interested students may registration online, by mail, or in person at MCA’s Valéncia Arts Center. MCA, a non-profit organization, exists to provide quality arts education and performance by nurturing and encouraging artistic expression in children and adults.

 The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. This activity is made possible in part by a grant provided by the Minnesota State Arts Board, through an appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature from the Minnesota arts and cultural heritage fund with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on Nov. 4, 2008.