Plans set for Candlelight 2008 at Saint Mary's University

WINONA, Minn. – Groove back to the funky era of flower power — a time when saddle shoes and poodle skirts were replaced by go-go boots and mini skirts — during Candlelight 2008 at Saint Mary's University.

The social evening, to be held on Saturday, Feb. 9, is a communitywide event, hosted biennially by the university. Formerly a fund-raiser, Candlelight is now simply a fun evening, a celebration of the university and a thank you to the community for its support.

This year's theme, "Candlelight, Outta Sight” will come to life at Terrace Heights in a brightly colored tie-dyed theme, complete with 45s and, of course, candlelight.

The evening will begin with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails at 6 p.m. in the lounge, followed by a five-course gourmet dinner in the dining hall, both in the Toner Student Center. A highlight of the evening will include cabaret entertainment by SMU theatre and music students who will perform a variety of favorites from the ’60s and early ’70s by the Beatles, the Monkeys, John Denver, the Carpenters, and many more. Candlelight attendees will then dance the night away to the seven-piece Diane Martinson Band.

The cost of the evening is $75 per person or $140 per couple. Dress is formal attire, and valet parking and coat check services will be available.

If you do not receive an invitation or have questions about Candlelight, call Jo Nesler, (507) 457-1664.

Brother William Mann is named 13th president of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Brother William Mann, FSC, D.Min.

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Board of Trustees announced Thursday, Dec. 13, that Brother William Mann, FSC, D.Min. has been named the 13th president of the university. Brother William will begin his term of office on June 1, 2008.

Brother William, 60, is the former Vicar General of the De La Salle Christian Brothers. As Vicar General, he was the second-highest officer of the international Catholic teaching order that comprises 5,300 Christian Brothers, working in association with 73,000 lay educators to operate 930 schools and universities serving 900,000 students in 82 countries.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a private, Catholic institution guided by the De La Salle Christian Brothers. Its Winona campus is home to a residential liberal arts college, while extensive graduate and professional programs are offered at Winona, a Twin Cities campus, Rochester center and Apple Valley center, locations around Minnesota and Wisconsin, and Nairobi, Kenya.

Chancellor Brother Louis DeThomasis, FSC, Ph.D., has led Saint Mary’s University this past year during the national search for a new president. DeThomasis reassumed the duties of president in February, 2007, after previously serving Saint Mary’s for 21 years in that capacity.

DeThomasis said “Saint Mary’s is so fortunate to have as its new president an internationally recognized educational leader. Brother William Mann is also a renowned Lasallian scholar, who will enhance our vision and mission as a Lasallian institution of higher education.”

DeThomasis added that Brother William's “vast international experience will advance our efforts to bring global education to our students. His experience with multicultural, diverse populations allows him to offer a unique gift to our university setting, and brings a new dimension to the intellectual and spiritual life of students and faculty.”

“We are delighted with the international reputation and stature of our new president,” said Michael Meagher, chairman of the Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees. “The board was impressed with his wisdom, sensitivity, and obvious commitment and dedication to education.”

Brother William has spent almost 30 years traveling around the country and the world as a leader in the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, and as a guiding force in the evolution of the Lasallian educational global network.

“I am excited at the opportunity to focus my experience and passion for the Lasallian educational mission at Saint Mary’s University,” Brother William said. He noted that “the many facets of Saint Mary’s are interesting and inspiring, and I believe the university is well-positioned to continue doing great good” within the society of the 21st century.

Brother William served in Rome from 2000-07 as Vicar General, a leader with far-ranging responsibilities within the international governance structure of the De La Salle Christian Brothers.

A native of New York City, Brother William joined the Christian Brothers in 1965. He began his career as an English and religion teacher, working from 1970-79 at two Christian Brother high schools in New York and Rhode Island. He then held positions directing Christian Brother formation for the Long Island-New England Province and USA/Toronto Region, and from 1990-96 he was International Secretary of Formation in Rome. He later served as Delegate Superior for India, and as Provincial for the LI-NE Province, which operates 10 educational institutions in New York City and Rhode Island.

Brother William has also been an organizer, member, delegate and presenter for numerous Lasallian commissions and symposiums. He was a member of the boards of several Christian Brother schools in New York and Rhode Island, and he served on the Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Board of Trustees from 1996-2001.

Brother William is a noted scholar and writer on the life and teachings of John Baptist de La Salle, founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools and the patron saint of educators. He has authored and edited numerous publications examining De La Salle’s writings and spirituality, putting them into context for Lasallian educators in today’s world.

Brother William’s educational background includes a B.A. in English Literature from The Catholic University of America, an M.A. in Liberal Studies - Literature from State University of New York at Stony Brook, an M.A. in Spirituality from Salve Regina University, and a Doctor of Ministry degree in Family Ministry from Colgate Rochester Divinity School.

Saint Mary’s student dances on Disney Christmas special

WINONA, Minn. — Fallon Devine, a junior at Saint Mary’s University and a Winona native, danced her way into the “Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade 2007.”

The program, which features all the big names from “Dancing with the Stars” along with performances by Patti LaBelle, Jessica Simpson and Katharine McPhee, will air 9 a.m. Christmas Day on ABC.

Devine, a student at Rochester’s Fred Astaire Dance Studio, received a phone call from her dance instructor, Winston Fine, saying she was one of three people he was considering taking to Walt Disney World to perform. Whoever called him back first would get to go.

Devine wasted no time. “He said, ‘I literally just hung up the phone when you called.’ ”

All together 200 dancers, all part of the Fred Astaire company, served as background dancers for the show.

With a little luck, Devine said she and Fine received the opportunity to dance on one of only four platforms — and thereby get extra visibility. Between learning the dance steps and the show’s final taping, Devine estimates she danced 22 hours Thursday through Friday.

Devine has returned to Winona with some new dance moves, some great memories and lots of pictures with stars like Joey Fatone, Drew Lachey and Sabrina Bryan, along with the dance professionals Tony Dovolani, Julianne Hough and Edyta Sliwinska (and Mickey and Minnie).

Noted faculty featured in new Canon Law program at Saint Mary's

An innovative two-year Graduate Certificate in Canon Law program is now accepting applications for a summer, 2008 debut at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota.

The program, featuring noted experts as faculty, will be offered to a national student body by the Institute in Pastoral Ministries. Students will engage in a blended-learning format, with both an online delivery as well as a two-week summer residency.

The two-year program will run in conjunction with the Institute's master degree programs in Pastoral Ministry and Pastoral Administration. The first summer residency is June 16 - 28, 2008, with a second residency planned for summer, 2009.

The Graduate Certificate in Canon Law is aimed at Roman Catholic Church administrators at all levels, school and health-care administrators, and civil attorneys. The course of study is designed for those who do not seek a pontifical degree in canon law, but require canonical knowledge for administrative or pastoral duties.

The outstanding faculty include: Sr. Dominica Brennan, OP, JCL, chancellor for canonical affairs, Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis; Rev. Paul Golden, CM, JCD, Vincentian Canonical Services, Denver; Lawrence Price, JD, JCL, director of the tribunal, Diocese of Winona, Minn.; Rev. Daniel Smilanic, adjutant judicial vicar, Archdiocese of Chicago; and Prof. Greg Sobolewski, PhD, director of the Institute in Pastoral Ministries, Winona, Minn.

For more information on the Graduate Certificate in Canon Law, contact Prof. Sobolewski at 800-635-5987, Ext. 1767 or email gsobolew@smumn.edu. Or go online to www.smumn.edu/canonlaw.

FACULTY BIOGRAPHIES:

Sister M. Dominica Brennan, OP, MA, JCL has served as chancellor for Canonical Affairs and director of the Office of Conciliation for the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis for the past 12 years. Sister Dominica is a member of the Canon Law Society of America and served as a consultor on its Board of Governors from 1996–1998, and as treasurer from 2005–2007.


Rev. Paul L. Golden, CM, JCD is a Vincentian priest who has taught canon law and published monographs and canonical advisory opinions since 1968. He is a past-president of the Canon Law Society of America, which honored him in 2005 with its annual Role of Law Award.








Prof. Lawrence Price, JCL, JD is licensed to practice law in state and federal court, and was a Judge Advocate with the U.S. Air Force for six years. At the Catholic University of Leuven, he received a Licentiate in Canon Law. Since 1998 he has been an ecclesiastical judge for the Diocese of Winona and is director of the Tribunal. He edited The Tribunal Handbook: Procedures for Formal Matrimonial Cases (Canon Law Society of America, 2005).



Rev. Daniel Smilanic, JCD is a priest for the Archdiocese of Chicago, where he has worked in the Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Chicago and is presently the adjutant judicial vicar. In 2003 he was appointed the Cardinal’s delegate to the Review Board and the Promoter of Justice in penal cases. In October 2007 he was elected vice-president/president-elect of the Canon Law Society of America.




Prof. Gregory Sobolewski, PhD is a professor of theology at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, where he has directed the Institute in Pastoral Ministries since 1996. He was an invited participant in the U.S. bishops' national consultations on Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord (2005), as well as a contributing writer for USCCB’s "Proposed Foundational Document on Lay Ecclesial Ministry."

Saint Mary’s concert features jazz, percussion ensembles

Saint Mary’s will host an evening of rhythmic jazz and the unique ethnic sounds of Batucada Nossa Senhora, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, at Page Theatre.

The 18-piece Saint Mary's Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, will burn away any thoughts of snow when they perform with Wisconsin vocalist and swing singer Judi K.

Judi K began her career singing at weddings and in church; it was not until she met the great mandolinist, Jethro Burns, that her career truly began.

Her two recordings, “It’s Been A Long, Long Time” and “I’m Nobody's Baby,” feature the talents of Jim Beebe, Jethro Burns, Truck Parham, Connie Jones and tenor-saxophonist Franz Jackson.

Judi K has also performed with many musicians from around the United States. She performs at jazz festivals, outdoor concerts and private affairs. She recently returned from New Mexico, where she sang with the great Houston Person and several other musicians from across the country.

The big band's set with Judi K will include an arrangement of Irving Mill's ever-popular “Moonglow” and Johnny Mercer's “I Remember You.” Judi will also jam with Jazz Combo I on Ellington's famous tune “Don't Get Around Much Anymore.” Dave Wolpe arranged all of the pieces mentioned above. Other soloists with the big band include alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams performing a Mike Tomaro arrangement of Thelonius Monk's haunting melody “'Round Midnight.” Tenor saxophonist Tony Freeman will solo on several selections with the jazz combo as well as the big band including “Cold Duck” time by Eddie Harris arranged by Mark Taylor and Horace Silver's up tempo tune “Sister Sadie,” arranged by Bryan Kidd.

The SMU Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I will tour the Twin Cities in January, and then attend the International Association of Jazz Educators' Convention in Toronto, Ont., Jan. 9-13, 2008.

Also during the evening, the SMU Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, and the voice of Judi K will all join forces with Batucada Nossa Senhora (percussion ensemble of our lady). Batucada Nossa Senhora, under the direction of Denny McGuire, will warm your hearts with two forms of Maracatu from Bahia in Northeastern Brazil, a West African drum medley from the Ewe people of Ghana, and a set of Sambas from Brazil.

Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students and seniors. Tickets are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.
Saint Mary’s concerts
feature jazz, percussion ensembles

Saint Mary’s will host an evening of rhythmic jazz and the unique ethnic sounds of Batucada Nossa Senhora, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, at Page Theatre.

The 18-piece Saint Mary's Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, will burn away any thoughts of snow when they perform with Wisconsin vocalist and swing singer Judi K.

Judi K began her career singing at weddings and in church; it was not until she met the great mandolinist, Jethro Burns, that her career truly began.

Her two recordings, “It’s Been A Long, Long Time” and “I’m Nobody's Baby,” feature the talents of Jim Beebe, Jethro Burns, Truck Parham, Connie Jones and tenor-saxophonist Franz Jackson.

Judi K has also performed with many musicians from around the United States. She performs at jazz festivals, outdoor concerts and private affairs. She recently returned from New Mexico, where she sang with the great Houston Person and several other musicians from across the country.

The big band's set with Judi K will include an arrangement of Irving Mill's ever-popular “Mooglow” and Johnny Mercer's “I Remember You.” Judi will also jam with Jazz Combo I on Ellington's famous tune “Don't Get Around Much Anymore.” Dave Wolpe arranged all of the pieces mentioned above. Other soloists with the big band include alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams performing a Mike Tomaro arrangement of Thelonius Monk's haunting melody “'Round Midnight.” Tenor saxophonist Tony Freeman will solo on several selections with the jazz combo as well as the big band including “Cold Duck” time by Eddie Harris arranged by Mark Taylor and Horace Silver's up tempo tune “Sister Sadie,” arranged by Bryan Kidd.

The SMU Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I will tour the Twin Cities in January, and then attend the International Association of Jazz Educators' Convention in Toronto, Ont., Jan. 9-13, 2008.

Also during the evening, the SMU Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, and the voice of Judi K will all join forces with Batucada Nossa Senhora (percussion ensemble of our lady). Batucada Nossa Senhora, under the direction of Denny McGuire, will warm your hearts with two forms of Maracatu from Bahia in Northeastern Brazil, a West African drum medley from the Ewe people of Ghana, and a set of Sambas from Brazil.

Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students and seniors. Tickets are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Saint Mary’s University earns All-Steinway distinction

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University has received the distinction of being named an All-Steinway School. The honor demonstrates Saint Mary’s commitment to excellence by providing students and faculty with the best possible instruments for both study and performance.

In order to be eligible for the All-Steinway School distinction, Saint Mary’s made the commitment to offer to its students only instruments designed and built by Steinway & Sons.

“The name Steinway brings a level of integrity and validity that is instant,” said Ned Kirk, chairman of the SMU Department of Music. “It means that Saint Mary’s is truly dedicated to providing the best for our students.”

Steinway is a name traditionally associated with excellence in piano craftsmanship. Steinway pianos are known for their longevity, and most Steinway instruments appreciate in value over time. Each piano is handcrafted, which can take up to one full year per instrument.

The inspiration to become a Steinway school came from long-time friends of the university, Bob Kierlin and Mary Burrichter. The Winona couple donated a newly restored 1931 Steinway piano to the Minnesota Beethoven Festival. The concert piano, worth more than $100,000, was carefully restored 18 months ago. Saint Mary’s University has the additional honor of using the piano throughout the school year as its concert instrument.

Only 60 colleges and universities in the United States have been designated All-Steinway Schools, including six in Minnesota: Gustavus Adolphus; University of Minnesota, Morris; University of Minnesota, Twin Cities; Bemidji State University; and Concordia University, St. Paul.

For more information about the Saint Mary’s music department programs and activities, go to www.smumn.edu/music.

Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona trees are up throughout community

WINONA, Minn. – Giving trees — decorated with tags for Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona — are now up throughout Winona. Trees are located at: the three Sinclair stations, the Winona Public Library, all three Wells Fargo Bank locations, Scrapper’s Haven, the Winona Post and Security State Bank in Lewiston.

This community gift-giving program helps less fortunate families in the Winona area have happier holidays.

Individuals who want to help should visit one of these locations, take as many tags off the trees as they wish, purchase and wrap the gifts, and return them by Dec. 13 to the tree where they obtained the tag. Each tag is labeled with a person’s holiday gift wish list. Tags should be taped securely to the outside of the gift/gifts.

The recommended amount for holiday gifts is approximately $30 per person. As the distribution is early this year — mid December — the community is asked to begin their season of giving early as well.

Through the generosity of the Winona-area community, this program assists approximately 1,500 people of all ages. Other partners include United Way of the Greater Winona Area, Wells Fargo Bank, Winona Post, Winona Radio and Winona Volunteer Services.

For more information, call the “Gifts for Winona” line at (507) 457-8719.

Conservatory plans Winter Showcase Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 at Valéncia

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts Dance Repertory Company II and Young Choreographers will present a Winter Showcase Friday, Nov. 30, at 6:30 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 1, at 3 p.m. — both at the Valéncia Arts Center Academy Theatre.

For more than three decades, the Dance Repertory Company has presented the Winona community with quality dance productions featuring local dancers performing classical and contemporary works. The DRC II is MCA’s junior performing troupe and showcases students ages 5 to 12 years olds.

The 2007 Winter Showcase presents the DRC II students in classical ballet, tap, jazz, modern, creative movement, and a special just-for-boys piece. In addition to viewing the DRC II performers, audience members will enjoy works by the MCA’s Young Choreographers. These high school- and college-aged students participated in a choreography and improvisation class throughout the semester through which they learned how to create their own works.

Cast members and Young Choreographers in the Winter Showcase include: Dot Armstrong, Pippa Armstrong, Chris Bernard, Jasmine Boynton, Carter Briggs, Austyn Burt, Taylor Cada, Keegan Eide, Max Gort, Katie Harbinson, Madison Junker, Caitlin Kamen Sydney Larson, Summer Lawson, Megan Lynch, Alec Meinke, Hayden Meinke, Justine Meinke, Lucy Nelson, Isabella Riley, Augusta Rodgers, Zach Ruben, Danielle Schleich, Laura Schleich, Natalie Schleich, Olivia Schlesser, Alyssa Schneider, Kyle Schneider, Ike Scholl, Claire Smart, Emily Strom, Lexy Valentine, Adelle Vietor, Kaitlyn Vietor, Jacqueline Vietor, Adam Volkert, Amanda Weatherhead, Lucy Wilfahrt, and Anna Wolner.

Tickets cost $7 are available at MCA’s Valéncia Arts Center, located on the corner of 10th and Vila Streets. To reserve your tickets, call (507) 453-5500. For more information about MCA performances, classes and programs, visit www.smumn.edu/mca. The Conservatory is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University.

Saint Mary’s University choirs to present ‘Lessons & Carols’

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Concert Choir, Chamber Singers and Women’s Choir will present their annual holiday tribute, “Lessons and Carols,” beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1.

The performance —a celebration of Advent and the Nativity through sung and spoken word — will held at Chapel of Saint Mary’s of the Angels, located on the Saint Teresa campus.

Music will include some familiar carols, as well as selections by Morten, Lauridsen, Hans Leo Hassler, Gabriel Fauré, Palestrina and a variety of other composers from Renaissance to the present.

Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students and seniors and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Student art on display at SMU through Dec. 14

“Injya,” an acrylic on canvas by Joshua Gardner is one of several pieces on display for the 2007 Undergraduate Art Show at Saint Mary’s University. The show is not limited to art majors, but is open to any SMU art student. A variety of artwork is on display through Dec. 14 in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, located in the Toner Student Center. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, and the exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Sister Margaret Mear at mmear@smumn.edu.


“Fall,” a photograph by SMU senior Kristina Perkins, is part of the 2007 Undergraduate Art Show at Saint Mary's University. The show, currently on display at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, includes painting, drawing, photography, metal sculpture and ceramics. The exhibit will run through Dec. 14 and is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, contact Sister Margaret Mear at mmear@smumn.edu.

Max Kulas services set for Monday

Max Kulas, 88, former Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds at Saint Mary's University, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 14 in Winona. Max served the university from November 1955 until he retired in June 1985. In August of 2000, the power plant on campus was renamed the Kulas-Connaughty Power Plant in recognition of Max and of his successor, Roger Connaughty.

A Memorial Mass will be offered on Monday, Nov. 19, at 2 p.m. at the Chapel of Our Lady in Saint Anne Extended Healthcare in Winona with the Rev. Andrew Fabian, O.P. officiating. Interment will take place at a later date. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the chapel on Monday.

Obituary listed in the Winona Daily news

Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona application deadline is Nov. 20

WINONA, Minn. – Anyone who needs help obtaining holiday gifts for their family should pick up a Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona application through one of the human service agencies that they work with (Catholic Charities, Family Services of Winona, Habitat for Humanity, Housing and Redevelopment Authority, Project FINE, Semcac, Winona Area Hospice, Winona Area Learning Center, Winona County Community Health, Winona County Department of Human Services, Winona Senior Advocacy Program, Winona Volunteer Services, Winona Workforce Center or Women’s Resource Center).

Winona County families affected by the flood should contact the Long-Term Flood Recovery Center at 452-1088.

The deadline for applying is Tuesday, Nov. 20.

Giving trees will be going up Nov. 19 for the communitywide program, which provides gifts to less fortunate families during the holiday season. Tags, each labeled with a different person’s holiday gift wishes, will be placed on area giving trees beginning next week.

Trees will be located at: the three Sinclair Stations, the Winona Public Library, Scrapper’s Haven, as well as all three Wells Fargo Bank locations in Winona.

Individuals who want to help make someone's season a littler merrier should visit one of these locations, take as many tags off the trees as they wish, and return the gifts by Dec. 13 to the tree where they obtained the tag. The recommended amount for holiday gifts is approximately $30 per person. Tags should be securely taped to the outside of the presents.

As the gift distribution is early this year — mid December — the community is asked to begin their season of giving early as well.

Through the generosity of the Winona-area community, this program assisted 1,413 people last year. Other partners include United Way of the Greater Winona Area, Wells Fargo Bank, Winona Post, Winona Radio, and Winona Volunteer Services.

Any organization or group that wishes to help 10 or more people should call the “Gifts for Winona” line at (507) 457-8719 as soon as possible.

SMU’s Burchill recognized locally, nationally for philanthropy work

WINONA, Minn. — The late Tim Burchill, longtime Saint Mary’s University administrator and director of the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership, will be honored three times in the next week for his work in philanthropy.

Burchill will receive the Outstanding Contribution to Philanthropy Award from the Minnesota Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals on Nov. 15. A celebration of National Philanthropy Day — at which awards will be presented — will be held at the Crowne Plaza Riverfront in Saint Paul.

Each year AFP honors individuals and groups who, through their hard work and dedication, have enhanced philanthropy, their communities and the world. This will be the first time the Outstanding Contribution to Philanthropy Award has been given posthumously; Tim’s wife Barb of Winona will accept the award on his behalf.

Burchill will be honored in La Crosse, Wis., on Nov. 14 by the local Upper Mississippi Valley chapter of AFP, which he co-founded.

And the Winona Community Foundation will present Burchill with the Founders Award on Nov. 13 during its Thanks for Giving event. As part of the award, Burchill’s family will receive a $5,000 grant. The Burchills have asked that the grant be used for the SMU Philanthropy and Development program, which Tim co-founded.

USA Today makes NSSE results public; SMU ranks above national average

WINONA, Minn. — A different kind of college assessment survey shows that Saint Mary's University students are engaged with, and learn more from, their college experience.

Saint Mary's is one of 610 colleges and universities who participated this year in the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). The NSSE, conducted through Indiana University, looks at how actively involved students are with their studies, professors and the campus community. Research shows that the more engaged students are, the more likely they are to learn. NSSE is becoming increasingly recognized as a more authentic indicator of college quality than traditional rankings.

USA Today has partnered with NSSE to publish a guide in print and online to show how NSSE can enhance the college search. Of the 1,000 schools recently surveyed by NSSE, only 257 — including Saint Mary’s — agreed to make their results public. Go online to www.usatoday.com/news/education for NSSE survey stories and college data; go to www.smumn.edu/nsse for Saint Mary's results and the NSSE college guide.

"The NSSE allows colleges to understand what they do especially well, and what they can improve upon, based on comparison with data from other colleges," said Dr. Thomas Mans, SMU vice president for academic affairs.

Mans said NSSE results show that Saint Mary’s provides a distinctive and superior college experience compared with institutions nationally and even with other small, liberal arts colleges in the Midwest. In many important categories, SMU students’ responses were much more favorable than the comparison groups.

Freshman and senior students were asked last spring to answer 85 questions. Their responses were combined to form summary benchmark scores in the areas of academic challenge, student-faculty interaction, supportive campus environment, enriching educational experiences, and active/collaborative learning.

For freshmen, the average Saint Mary's score on four out of the five benchmarks was significantly higher than the national average. (In the category of enriching educational experiences, Saint Mary's scored slightly below the average.) For seniors, the scores on all five benchmark areas were higher than the national sample.

"The scores show that our students are engaged in activities that aid learning, by faculty with whom they interact well, in a setting that supports them," according to Dr. Patrick Barlow, SMU director of college assessment.

Barlow noted that "while the results paint a good picture of the quality of the learning experience at Saint Mary’s, the survey also indicated some areas for further growth — specifically in the areas of freshman appreciation of and experience with diversity. The college community is looking at ways to improve this aspect of our students' learning experience."

Saint Mary’s Chemistry Night awards announced

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Chemistry Department has announced the award winners for the Chemistry Night events, held on Thursday, Oct. 25, and Thursday, Nov. 1. Area high school students participated in chemistry activities involving departmental instrumentation and wet chemistry under the guidance of Saint Mary’s chemistry majors.

Based on the National Chemistry Week theme of “The Many Faces of Chemistry,” the high school students were able to simulate many roles of a chemist. They worked as environmental chemists, food chemists, nanotechnologists, film critics and artistic chemists. The high-school student teams were evaluated on their use and interpretation of experimental results. Based on those evaluations, the following awards were made:

First-place winners: Joe McMartin, Matt Schultz and Emily Kronebusch of Lewiston-Altura High School; and Luke Ward, Robert Kim and Christine Pulido of Lourdes High School in Rochester.

Second-place winners: Hannah Flatten, Joel Hanson and Tia Thompson of Winona Senior High School; and Amy Yin and Sharon Christopher of Onalaska High School.

Third-place winners: Mark Lower, Emily Monk and Mark Painter of Lourdes High School; and Maja Kanebley and Leah Wooden of LaCrescent High School.

The SMU Chemistry Department would like to congratulate these students and thank the 50 students — and their dedicated teachers — who participated in Chemistry Nights.

SMU Concert Band, Wind Ensemble to present instrumental showcase

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Concert Band and Wind Ensemble will present an instrumental showcase at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18.

The concert, performed under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, will be held at Cotter High School’s Saint Cecilia Theatre.

The concert band — including the talents of various small ensembles including a brass quintet, clarinet choir, flute choir, wind ensemble, and percussion ensemble — will entertain audiences with a varied selection of music with an international flavor. Highlights include the Irish tune “Molly on the Shore” by Grainger; “Rondeau” by Jean-Joseph Mouret; and “Madrigals for Six Flutes,” inspired by familiar folk melodies from Japan and Israel, by Samuel Adler. As the weather turns colder, audiences can warm up with the Latin rhythms of “Carnaval De Caribe” by Moses Mark Howden or enjoy the whimsical new piece, “Firefly,” By David J. Gordon, which captures the essence of dancing fireflies.

Tickets are $6 for the general public, $4 for students and seniors and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org or the Performance Center box office, (507) 457-1715, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays. Tickets will also be available at the door one hour prior to the performance.

SMU Page Series presents Koresh Dance Company Nov. 17

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Page Series will host the unique and exciting Koresh Dance Company, featuring “Looking Back: Music of the ’40s & ’50s” on Saturday, Nov. 17.

The program will feature original dance pieces that break through boundaries of traditional choreography. “Looking Back: Music of the ’40s & ’50s” evokes all the romance and rebellion of the era, complete with lively jazz and swing choreography, along with a delightful cast of characters and stories. Koresh will showcase a dance experience that will excite audiences of all ages beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the SMU Performance Center’s Page Theatre.

The dancers will perform to such well-known artists as Louis Armstrong, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole, Elvis Presley, Ray Charles and many more.

Make it dinner and a show. Pre-show dinners are provided by Chartwells Catering. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Toner Student Center, located next to the Performance Center. Adult dinners cost $20 and include chicken, beef, and vegetarian options, along with beverages and dessert. Bottles of wine may be purchased for an extra fee. Children’s dinners cost $12 and include mac-n-cheese or chicken fingers with sides, beverages, and dessert. Orders will be accepted up to three days prior to the event; order online or by phone.

Tickets are $22, $16 for seniors, $14 for students and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, during regular office hours 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

This Page Series event is co-sponsored by the Kaplan Forum on the Jewish Experience.

SMU theatre students stage tragedy — ‘Yerma’ — Nov. 9-12

WINONA, Minn. — A young woman’s painful yearning to be a mother leads to the gradual untangling of her mind in the Saint Mary’s University’s Department of Theatre Arts production of “Yerma” Nov. 9-12.

The dark tragedy, “Yerma,” by Spanish playwright Federico Garcia Lorca, centers on a childless young woman, trapped in a bitter and loveless marriage. Trapped too by social attitudes and conventions, Yerma is prevented from loving another man. Her internal conflict and mental instability seal her fate in a tragic climax befitting her tragic life.

The basic themes of this compelling tale — directed by Judy Myers — resemble the themes in every woman’s life: love, passion, desperation, sexuality and marriage.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Monday, Nov. 9, 10 and 12. A matinee performance is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11.

Tickets for the show — to be held in Page Theatre — are $8, $6 for students and seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box office, 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Saint Mary’s University announces Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre 2008 season

WINONA, Minn. — A man-eating plant and a phony foreigner will headline Saint Mary’s University’s second annual Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre. The professional theatre company summer lineup will include the popular musical “Little Shop of Horrors”; the hilarious comedy “The Foreigner”; and a yet-to-be-named children’s production in rotation throughout July and August at SMU’s Page Theatre.

Judy Myers, returning for a second year as artistic director, is excited to bring a talented cast of performers from throughout the United States to Winona. Myers said this year’s productions are guaranteed to leave audiences laughing. “These familiar favorites will be popular with audiences of all ages,” she said, “We hope they serve as a complement to Winona’s other rich summer theatre offerings.”

“Little Shop of Horrors,” directed by Myers, follows Seymour, a down-and out skid row floral assistant who becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant, which he names Audrey II, with a mysterious craving for fresh blood. Soon Audrey II grows into an ill-tempered, foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore that offers him fame and fortune in exchange for feeding its growing appetite. Audrey II finally reveals itself to be an alien creature poised for global domination. Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, this musical is based on the film by Roger Corman and screenplay by Charles Griffith. Anthony Freeman will serve as the musical director.

“The Foreigner” by Larry Shue demonstrates what can happen when a group of devious characters must deal with a stranger who (they think) knows no English. The locals of a rural Georgian fishing lodge are told that an innocent, shy young man named Charlie speaks no English. As the plot progresses, Charlie overhears more than he should: the evil plans of a sinister, two-faced minister and his redneck associate; the fact that the minister's pretty fiancée is pregnant; and many other damaging revelations made with the thought that Charlie doesn't understand a word being said. The wildly funny climax separates the "bad guys," and the "good guys" and ensures a happy ending.

“The Foreigner” will be directed by Steve Snyder, a faculty member of Bradley University in Peoria, Ill., who returns to GCST after having directed last summer’s successful production of “Lend Me a Tenor.”

Gary Diomandes will again serve as GCST’s artistic associate and Kit Mayer is returning as production manager and resident scene designer.

GCST will also include a children’s theatre production in its 2008 season. Performance dates will be announced at a later date.

Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre Schedule
July 10 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 11 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 12 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 13 “Little Shop of Horrors” 3 p.m.

July 17 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 18 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 19 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 20 “The Foreigner” 3 p.m.

July 24 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 25 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
July 26 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
July 27 “Little Shop of Horrors” 3 p.m.

July 31 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
August 1 “The Foreigner” 7:30 p.m.
August 2 “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m.
August 3 “The Foreigner” 3 p.m.

Sweeney named vice president for development, alumni relations

WINONA, Minn. — Brother Louis DeThomasis, chancellor of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, has named Joseph P. Sweeney as vice president for development and alumni relations.

Sweeney, a 1981 Saint Mary's graduate, will begin his new position on December 3. He will oversee the university’s fundraising, alumni relations and advancement services.

Sweeney comes to Saint Mary’s from Loyola Academy, a Jesuit college-preparatory high school in Wilmette, Ill., where he served for 11 years as vice president for development and director of principal gifts. During Sweeney’s tenure, Loyola’s endowment increased from $14 million to nearly $53 million. Previously, Sweeney worked seven years as director of development at Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein, Ill.

Joe and his wife, Stacey (Sanborn ’82) Sweeney, have four children. Their son Kevin is currently a sophomore at Saint Mary’s.

Saint Mary's University reports increase in undergraduate and graduate enrollment

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota reports enrollment growth at both the undergraduate and graduate program levels.

As of the fall "enrollment data freeze" dates, Saint Mary's has a total of 5,960 students, up 394 from last year's total of 5,566.

The number of graduate students enrolled is 3,918 (929 in Winona-based programs and 2,989 in Twin Cities campus-based programs). That number is up 170 from last year's enrollment of 3,748. An additional 692 bachelor degree-completion and undergraduate certificate students are enrolled, up 166 from last year's total of 526.

The undergraduate College at the Winona campus shows enrollment of 1,350, up 58 from last year's total of 1,292. (1,276 are full-time undergraduates and 74 are part-time and non-degree-seeking students.) The freshman class of 399 is the second-largest in Saint Mary's history. Adding in transfers and readmitted students, the total of new degree-seeking students is 455.

Common Threads clothing sale will be Oct. 25-27 at Saint Mary’s

WINONA, Minn. — The sixth annual Common Threads clothing sale will be held Oct. 25-27 at Saint Mary’s University’s Hall of Fame Room, located in the Toner Student Center.

Gently used clothing and footwear for men, women, youth and infants will be available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25, through Saturday, Oct. 27.

The cost is 50 cents per item or $4 for a paper bag full of items. The public is welcome.

The event is sponsored by the Office of Campus Ministry and the student Peace and Justice group. Each year the money raised — along with the leftover clothing from the sale — goes to local organizations that help those less fortunate. Last year approximately $355 was raised.

This year proceeds will go to the Winona Catholic Worker House and the SMU Peace and Justice group general fund.

For more information, contact Glenna at (715) 797-0210 or e-mail gmkryz4@smumn.edu.

SMU, WSU to host Japanese celebration, events on Oct. 20-21

WINONA, Minn. — Winona will welcome a delegation from Misato (Winona’s sister city in Japan) in October.

A “Culture Fest” — free and open to the public — will be held Saturday, Oct. 20, at the Toner Student Center. The event, which will run from 2 to 3 p.m., will include booth displays and demonstrations featuring Shodo, the art of drawing unique characters; Ikebana, art formed with flowers; Kimono, a traditional Japanese dress; and Sado, a tea ceremony.

These events will be followed by Japanese dancers and Taiko drummers from 3 to 4:15 p.m. in Page Theatre. The dancers will perform an original form of “Nihon Buyo,” which features the use of bamboo props and a beating rhythm. “Senrai,” a group of young Japanese musicians, will share their talents using the traditional instruments of Taiko drums.

A banquet begins at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 20 in the Hiawatha Room, located on SMU’s Saint Teresa campus. Admission is $18 per person, and tickets are available at City Hall, 457-8234. The event features the Gate City Jazz Band from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., as well as the International Dancers of Winona and Native American hoop dancer Jackie Bird.

On Sunday, Oct. 21, the Culture Fest will be repeated at WSU’s Kryzsko Commons. Exhibits run 1 to 2 p.m., with performances from 2 to 3:15 p.m.

Students celebrate National Chemistry Week during SMU Chemistry Night Oct. 25, Nov. 1

WINONA, Minn. — Several area high school juniors and seniors (and their teachers) will be learning the importance of chemistry in everyday life via hands-on activities 5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 25 and Nov. 1 during Chemistry Nights at Saint Mary’s University.

Chemistry Night, sponsored by the SMU Department of Chemistry and the La Crosse-Winona Local Section of the American Chemical Society, is an annual event to help students explore the discipline of chemistry and appreciate the positive role chemistry plays in the world.

Each year students solve a challenging but fun chemical problem based on the National Chemistry Week theme; this year’s theme is “The Faces of Chemistry.”

Students will be distributed into small teams and will work with instrumentation in the SMU Department of Chemistry, under the guidance of chemistry majors.
During the event, students will have hands-on exposure to various chemical instrumentation and wet chemistry. Prizes will be awarded including 12 SMU scholarships of $2,000 and $1,000.

The event is free, and there are still openings. Students who are interested should have their high school science teacher contact Dr. Jim Vogel at (507) 457-1558.

Halloween Fun Night is Oct. 29 at Saint Mary’s

WINONA, Minn. — Elementary and preschool children from the Winona area are invited to attend the seventh annual Saint Mary’s University Halloween Fun Night from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 29.

Participants should stop at the guard booth at the main entrance of the Winona campus for directions on where to park.

Young trick-or-treaters should start out the evening at the Hall of Fame Room, located in the Toner Student Center, where face-painting, a coloring station, bucket toss and other fun games will be offered, and the Cardinal mascot will greet pint-sized ghosts and goblins.

From there, SMU students will lead groups of trick-or-treaters through the residence halls of the university, where they can go door to door for candy.

Last year more than 600 youth participated in this free, safe and fun event, sponsored by the Office of Residence Life of Saint Mary’s.

Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona announces family application dates

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona program is accepting applications from community members who need help obtaining family gifts for the holidays. The annual gift-giving program — in its sixth year — helps more than 1,400 people have a much happier holiday season.

Families may pick up an application form through one of the human service agencies that they work with (Catholic Charities, Family Services of Winona, Habitat for Humanity, Housing and Redevelopment Authority, Project FINE, Semcac, Winona Area Hospice, Winona Area Learning Center, Winona County Community Health, Winona County Department of Human Services, Winona Senior Advocacy Program, Winona Volunteer Services, Winona Workforce Center or Women’s Resource Center). Families affected by the flood should contact the American Red Cross for an application form.

Completed application forms must be returned to Winona Volunteer Services (416 E. 2nd St.) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays, Oct. 26 or Nov. 2, or 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 27 or Nov. 3. On these dates, SMU student volunteers will review the forms for processing.

This program exists through the generosity of the Winona community, as well as the work of other community partners including: Winona Volunteer Services, United Way, Winona Radio, the Winona Post and Wells Fargo Bank.

DeThomasis to cook at ‘Recipe for Relief’ fundraiser for SMU faculty, staff flood victims

WINONA, Minn. — Friends of Saint Mary’s University are invited to a ‘Recipe for Relief’ fundraiser Sunday, Oct. 28, at the Winona campus. Proceeds will benefit the many faculty and staff at SMU who received severe flood damage.

Mark your calendars for a fun-filled evening of music, food and festive bidding. The event will be held 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the dining room of the Toner Student Center. Admission will be $25 or $15 for students.

Several celebrity SMU “chefs” will be preparing a huge variety of tasty hors d’oeuvres, and the master chef himself, Brother Louis DeThomasis, Saint Mary’s chancellor, will give out a special recipe — as well as a live (and lively!) demonstration of how to prepare it. Recipes by all the chefs will be shared.

SMU student jazz combos will be joined by directors Eric Heukeshoven and Dr. John Paulson. Additionally Chris Kendall, vice president for student development, will perform folk music. A silent auction will complete the evening.

This SMU benefit follows the Sept. 7 Rockin’ for Relief event — a live concert to assist flood victims in our surrounding communities — which raised $2,889. With a matching $2,500 donation from Modern Woodmen of America, the proceeds totaled $5,389.

Between 300 and 350 people attended that event, sponsored by Saint Mary’s Volunteer Services and Office of Campus Ministry.

SMU hosts High School Challenge competitions for 32 area teams

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary's University of Minnesota High School Challenge returns for another season of fun competition at 9 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 13, in Saint Mary’s World Room, located in the Hendrickson Center. The 2007-08 season marks the 37th year of the longest running, locally produced television program showcasing Eastern Minnesota, Western Wisconsin, and Northeast Iowa high school students in an educational forum.

High School Challenge is a contest in which high schools compete to correctly answer questions dealing with high school subjects, general information and current events. Thirty-two teams compete in winner and consolation bracket tournaments.

High school students receive scholarships to Saint Mary's for participating in High School Challenge. Schools that win their first game receive $2,000 scholarships to SMU. Schools that lose their first game receive $1,000 scholarships to SMU. Each scholarship is renewable for three consecutive years if requirements are met.

The following schools will compete in Round 1A Oct. 13: Blair-Taylor High School, Onalaska High School, La Crosse Central High School, North Crawford High School, Osseo Fairchild High School and Eau Claire North High School.

The following schools will partake in Round 1B Oct. 13: Bangor High School, Black River Falls High School, De Soto High School, Decorah High School, La Crescent High School, La Crosse Logan High School, Lewiston-Altura High School, Alma Center Lincoln High School, Seneca High School, West Salem High School and Winona Senior High School.

The following schools will participate in Round 1C Nov. 3: La Crosse Aquinas High School, Cotter High School, Caledonia High School, Holmen High School, Sparta High School, Melrose-Mindoro High School, Riceville Community High School, Eau Claire Region High School, Hope Lutheran High School, Eau Claire Memorial High School, Weston High School and Viroqua High School.

Teams that win their afternoon game will return Dec. 1 for the Consolation Championship games. Teams that win their morning and afternoon games will return in February for the Super Challenge Championships. The Consolation Championship and the Super Challenge Championships are taped at SMU and are televised on Fox 25 La Crosse and Fox 48 Eau Claire, beginning in March.

For more information contact Nicole Witt Gerdes, High School Challenge coordinator, at (507) 457-1761 or ngerdes@smumn.edu.

SMU exhibit to examine cultural, social forces through paintings, audio

"Samiha" - encaustic painting by Michal Sagar












"Hinda" - encaustic painting by Michal Sagar

WINONA, Minn. — Minneapolis artists Michal Sagar and Francisca de Beurges Rosenthal will present a thought-provoking and inspiring exhibit titled, “Branches: A Contemporary Convivencia” from Oct. 14 through Nov. 10 at Saint Mary’s University.

The show, which includes encaustic on wood by Sagar and an audio installation by de Beurges Rosenthal, explores a poetic interplay of social and cultural forces between Jews, Muslims and Christians. Specifically, the two focus on where human tensions interact with the natural world, leaving their imprint on each other.

Sagar has created portraits of Jews, Muslims and Christians — from their home countries and from the U.S. — to understand what separates us and what binds us together. Their memorable faces are captured in encaustic paintings on wooden panels. Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, involves using heated beeswax with colored pigments.

De Beurges Rosenthal interviewed some of the people depicted in Sagar’s beautiful, yet haunting, pieces. An audio installation from these interviews accompanies the paintings. One of de Beurges Rosenthal’s earlier sculpture and voice pieces, “Sh’ma” was first seen at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum in 1996. This installation depicted the issues of the Holocaust and the silence produced by trauma. In her ongoing work, de Beurges Rosenthal gives voices to those often encouraged to keep silent.

“Branches” will be on display in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, located in SMU’s Toner Student Center, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

An opening reception is planned for 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 21, at the galleries.

The exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, call (507) 457-1652.

TheatreworksUSA to bring favorite children’s story to life Oct. 19

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Page Series and TheatreworksUSA will stage the comical children’s story, “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day,” on Friday, Oct. 19. “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” – a hilarious musical that follows the terrible day of Alexander will begin at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre, located in the SMU Performance Center.

This timeless story begins with Alexander waking up with gum in his hair, and then he trips on a skateboard, and then he accidentally drops his sweater in the sink – and all this before breakfast! Alexander’s day continues to go down hill as he gets smushed in the car on the way to school, his teacher dislikes his drawing of an invisible castle, and Paul doesn’t want to be his friend anymore. There’s no dessert for lunch, there’s lima beans for dinner, and there’s kissing on TV.

Since 1961, TheatreworksUSA — America’s largest not-for-profit theatre for young and family audiences — has entertained more than 78 million people in 49 states and Canada.

Tickets are $6, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, during regular office hours 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Make it dinner and a show. Pre-show dinners are provided by Chartwells Catering. Seating begins at 5:15 p.m. in the Toner Student Center, located next to the Performance Center. Adult dinners cost $20 and include chicken, beef, and vegetarian options, along with beverages and dessert. Bottles of wine may be purchased for an extra fee. Children’s dinners cost $12 and include mac-n-cheese or chicken fingers with sides, beverages, and dessert. Orders will be accepted up to three days prior to the event; order online or by phone.

Get set to scream at annual Saint Mary's Walk of Horror

WINONA, Minn. — This year's Saint Mary's University Walk of Horror is again guaranteed to give you goosebumps. New scares are planned around every corner.

The 11th annual hair-raising fundraiser for the SMU Cardinal fastpitch softball team will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 19-20 and 26, 27 and 31 in the SMU bluffs. Walkers are asked to meet on the lighted path between the SMU baseball and softball fields, where the haunted walk will begin.

Groups are then escorted through the dark bluffs surrounding the SMU campus for approximately 20 minutes.

The cost is $5 for adults, $4 for students with ID, and $4 for children 12 and younger. Tickets are available at the gate.

SMU head fastpitch softball coach Jen Miller said the event is fun for all ages. The scare level is toned down for younger children and turned up for groups bold enough to face their fears. Last year more than 1,000 brave souls took SMU’s Walk of Horror.

Proceeds from this event will be used for the softball team’s spring trip to California for a tournament.
For more information, contact Miller at (507) 457-6923.

SMU hosts acrobatic dance with “MOMIX Remix” Oct. 10

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Page Series will host the unpredictable acrobatic dance program “MOMIX Remix” at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 10.

“MOMIX” is celebrated for its ability to conjure up a world of surrealistic images using props, light, shadow, humor and the human body.

“MOMIX Remix” is compiled of jaw-dropping routines from the company’s most famous works in the past 25 years. Moses Pendleton, the group’s choreographer and director, will showcase a dance experience like no other at Page Theatre, located in the SMU Performance Center.

Pendleton’s dancers may transform into sidewinders and Gila Monsters, float weightlessly through extraterrestrial terrains, strap into snow skis, or fly through the air like baseballs.

Tickets are $22, $16 for seniors, $14 for students and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, during regular office hours 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

SMU student’s art displayed in Smithsonian, Kennedy Center

SMU senior Holly Schuh’s artwork is on display in Washington, D.C.“Two Voices” is on display the Kennedy Center Hall of States through October.







“Pause,” is on display at the Smithsonian’s Ripley Center through Dec. 31









WINONA, Minn. — Holly Schuh, a Saint Mary’s University senior from Altura, Minn., received the Award of Excellence and $2,000 for her artwork, currently on display at the Smithsonian and the Kennedy Center.

The 2007 juried exhibition “Driven” highlights the work of 15 emerging, young visual artists with disabilities. The exhibition, sponsored by VSA arts and Volkswagen of America, Inc., is on display at the S. Dillon Ripley Center, Smithsonian Institution, through Dec. 31. The work of 15 “Driven” awardees is also on display at the Kennedy Center Hall of States through October in celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The 15 finalists displaying work were chosen from 204 applicants, ranging in age from 16 to 25, from throughout the United States.

This year’s assignment challenged artists to illustrate the motivational force behind their personal vision … what moves them to create art.

Schuh aims to portray the emotions of human struggles through the representation of the human figure. Inspired by a mission trip to India and an intense awareness of humanitarian issues, Schuh links art, humanity and human figures in works that emote without words. Schuh want her figures to “cause discussion about struggles and the changes that are needed in the character of humanity’s actions.”

Schuh said she changed as an artist after she began exhibiting symptoms of hereditary neuropathy with pressure-point palsies, a rare, slowly progressive hereditary neuromuscular disorder that makes an individual very susceptible to nerve injury from pressure, stretch or repetitive use.

“I am determined to see my hands create and to see my disease as a positive inheritance,” she said. “I want my abstract figures to cause discussion about struggles and the changes that are needed in the character of humanity’s actions.”

Trustees approve new Saint Mary’s track/soccer complex

WINONA, Minn. — A plan to build an outdoor track and field/soccer complex was approved Friday by the Saint Mary’s University Board of Trustees.

The athletic facility will be built at the Winona campus, located near the front entrance along Hwy. 14 and Gilmore Valley Road. Construction will begin in summer 2008. The first phase of the project is estimated to cost $2.5 million. A second phase will add permanent viewing stands, concession area, press box and lights.

An on-campus track/soccer complex has been under consideration for several years, according to Chris Kendall, vice president for student development. He said Saint Mary’s is “confident the addition of an attractive, well-constructed facility will greatly benefit the university in a number of key areas, including visibility and marketing, enrollment, athletics and campus atmosphere.” Kendall added, "SMU is one of the few MIAC schools without an outdoor track. This will significantly sharpen our competitive edge and help with the recruitment of student-athletes."

A competition soccer pitch will be built in the center of the track, “making the complex the new home to Cardinal soccer and a training facility for cross country and other athletic programs,” according to Nikki Fennern, athletic director. “It will be a direct asset to six of our teams, as well as to other athletes, intramurals, recreational users and summer camp participants,” Fennern said.

A year ago, the Saint Mary’s Board of Trustees decided not to reinstate football as a varsity sport. Instead, the board directed the university to provide better support for existing athletic programs. A recent peer review of SMU athletics noted that an outdoor track/soccer complex would serve as a major step toward achieving that goal.

This past summer, Saint Mary’s completed the first phase of building new baseball and fastpitch softball fields. Future plans will address needs for athletic training facilities, locker rooms, and tennis courts.

SMU invites public to annual Fall Frolic fun run/walk

WINONA, Minn. — The public is invited to the 20th annual Fall Frolic 5K fun run/walk, to be held during Saint Mary’s University’s Family Weekend, on Saturday, Sept. 29.

Registration will run from 8 to 9:30 a.m. in SMU’s Toner Student Center. The race begins at 10 a.m. The $8 cost includes a T-shirt.

Participants will enjoy the beautiful bluff trails of SMU’s Winona campus and can pre-register by calling (507) 457-1581.

TheatreworksUSA to perform ‘Charlotte’s Web’ Oct. 5 at SMU

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Page Series will stage the familiar children’s story, “Charlotte’s Web,” on Friday, Oct. 5. “Charlotte’s Web” ¬— which weaves the timeless story of a friendship between a pig and a spider — will begin at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre, located in the SMU Performance Center.

Based on E.B. White’s classic book, the story explores a relationship between a pig, Wilbur, and a little gray spider named Charlotte. Charlotte comes up with a brilliant plan to keep Wilbur from becoming someone’s dinner. She spins the words “Some Pig” in her web, which immediately grabs the attention of Wilbur’s owner, Farmer Zuckerman. Wilbur is then regarded as a prize pig, and is ensured a home on the farm forever. The story features numerous animals, and explores the true meaning of selfless friendship.

Since 1961, TheatreworksUSA — America’s largest not-for-profit theatre for young and family audiences — has entertained more than 78 million people in 49 states and Canada.

Tickets are $6, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, during regular office hours 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Saint Mary’s University receives $2 million gift for speaker series and scholarships

(WINONA, Minn.) —An anonymous donor has given $2 million to Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. The largest gift ever received by its Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs will fund endowed scholarships for adult, non-traditional students completing their bachelor and graduate degrees, and provide for a major new Twin Cities speaker series.

The series, to be held annually at a Twin Cities venue, will feature renowned guest speakers. Saint Mary's University will sponsor the event with its Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership, whose student and community programs emphasize the importance of ethical principles, morals, spirituality, and free enterprise. At this event, the keynote speaker will present an award to an outstanding leader for their contributions to global ethical initiatives.

Brother Louis DeThomasis, Saint Mary's chancellor, expressed his "immense gratitude" to the anonymous donor, noting that this gift will help the university in its mission to make life-changing education accessible and affordable. "We're excited that the gift also will allow us to bring a top-flight event to the Twin Cities that will spotlight the national need for ethical leadership," DeThomasis added.

More than 4,000 adult learners at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota attend non-traditional certificate, bachelor-completion, master degree, specialist and doctoral programs at locations in Minneapolis, Apple Valley, Rochester, Winona, around the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin, and Nairobi, Kenya.

“The need for open discussion and learning on values-based leadership has never been greater,” commented Kaye O’Leary, chief financial officer of Buca, Inc., a Twin Cities business executive with interests in ethical issues. “This gift will help Saint Mary’s University to show our current leaders — and the leaders of the future — the importance of values-based, ethical leadership, and it provides a platform for the recognition of leaders who are getting it right.”

Saint Mary’s receives $560,000 from 1942 alumnus’ trust fund

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University has announced a monetary gift of more than $560,000 from the late Philip Morris, class of 1942, and his wife, Patricia, both of Green Valley, Ariz., and formerly of Kansas.

The Morrises created the Morris Family Trust, which stipulated — upon the death of the surviving spouse — that 90 percent of their combined estate would be distributed to Saint Mary’s University in memory of Professor Robert Woods of the Economics Department and Brother Luke A. Herbert, former university librarian. The remaining 10 percent went to America’s Press, Inc. in New York, N.Y.

The gift will be used for the university-designated endowment.

Philip Morris was active in the Saint Mary’s alumni organization and in fundraising for the Saint Thomas More Chapel on the Winona campus.

Saint Mary's University reports second-largest freshman class

WINONA, Minn. — Official 10th-day-of-class statistics at the Saint Mary's University Winona campus show a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,350, up approximately 4.5 percent from last year’s total of 1,292.

That number includes 1,276 full-time Winona-campus undergraduates and 74 part-time and non-degree-seeking students.

A total of 399 freshmen are enrolled this fall, 6 percent higher than in 2006. The freshman class is the second-highest in Saint Mary’s history; the highest was recorded in 1988. With transfers and readmitted students added, the total number of new degree-seeking students is 455.

Enrollment in the Saint Mary's University Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs will be released later this fall.

Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts offers free dance tuition to flood victims

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is offering free tuition for semester I 2007 dance classes to children (ages 4 to 17) whose families lost their homes in the recent flooding.

Semester I classes begin this week and run through Nov. 17. Classes are held at the Valéncia Arts Center, located at the corner of 10th and Vila streets. Classes and performance opportunities are available for girls and boys. Students may pick from a variety of dance genres including: ballet, tap, jazz, modern and hip hop. MCA also offer a special class just for boys.

“We recognize that many families in the area have lost their homes and are in financial difficulty. Dance tuition might be the last thing these families are concerned about,” said Christine Martin, MCA managing director, “So, we are offering free tuition to affected families who may be looking for a fun activity — designed to provide physical and aesthetic benefits, heightened self-respect, discipline and confidence — for their children.”

Parents interested in registering their child/children who wish to apply for MCA’s Flood Relief Scholarship Fund should contact Christine Martin at (507) 453-5501 or dance@smumn.edu. For more information about MCA visit www.smumn.edu/mca.

Theatre, music events highlight SMU Family Weekend Sept. 28-30

WINONA, Minn. — A full slate of events await parents and students during Saint Mary’s University’s annual Family Weekend Sept. 28-30. In addition, the public is invited to enjoy the talents of SMU students during theatre, jazz, and band and chorus events.

The weather is cooling off but the jazz is heating up at Saint Mary's. Two student groups led by Dr. John Paulson will kick off the year with a concert at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, in the Performance Center’s Figliulo Recital Hall. Tickets are $6, $4 for students and seniors. The 18-piece Jazz Ensemble and six-piece Jazz Combo I will perform from 6 to 7 p.m., and two Jazz Workshop Combos, directed by Dr. Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven, will play for a reception following the concert in the Toner Student Center Lounge.

Jazz Combo I will start off the concert playing selections from their repertoire of recognizable jazz standards like “Stolen Moments” by Oliver Nelson. Featured soloists include Sam Courtier on guitar, Matt Clementz on trumpet and Tony Freeman on tenor sax.

The big band will perform tunes like Bryan Kid's arrangement “Sister Sadie” by Horace Silver, and “Round Midnight” by Thelonius Monk, featuring sophomore Vanessa Grams on alto sax. Also included in their set will be the recognizable “Cold Duck Time” by Eddie Harris, arranged by Mark Taylor.

The SMU Concert Band and SMU choirs will perform 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, in Page Theatre, located in the Performance Center. Tickets are $6, $4 for students and seniors. The concert band — under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven — is a 77-member ensemble made up of SMU students, as well as qualified community musicians. Rehearsing twice weekly, the band performs a wide variety of traditional and modern wind band literature. Saturday's concert will include the “National Anthem,” arranged by Bowles; Vaughan Williams’ “English Folk Song Suite;” Eric Whitacre’s “October;” and Hardiman’s “Lord of the Dance,” arranged by Saucedo. The “English Folk Song Suite” contains three movements, the march, “Seventeen Come Sunday;” the intermezzo, “My Bonnie Boy;” and the march, “Folk Songs from Somerset.”

The Saint Mary's Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, and Women's Choir will perform a number of choral works, from the Renaissance to Gospel music, and in several languages including Latin and Iroquois. The Concert Choir (65 voices) and Chamber Singers (24 voices) are directed by Dr. Patrick O’Shea, and the Women’s Choir (23 voices) is directed by faculty member Peter Schleif.

The SMU Department of Theatre Arts will stage “Art” 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28; Saturday, Sept. 29; and Monday, Oct. 1; as well as 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 30. Written by Yasmina Reza, and directed by Dr. Stephen Bouler, “Art,” is a humorous and honest examination of modern friendship.

Reza demonstrates through comic relief what it means to be a friend. When an art lover buys a very expensive white painting (with white stripes), his best friend goes ballistic. A third friend enters the scene acting as a mediator. Reza humorously examines both subjects with the use of three characters: the man who bought the painting and the two friends who come to see it. Tickets for the performance — to be held in Page Theatre — are $8, $6 for students and seniors. The audience should be advised that “Art” contains strong language.

To order tickets for any of these Family Weekend events — or to learn more about any upcoming productions at SMU — contact the Performance Center Box Office at (507) 457-1715 during business hours, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, or order online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Saint Teresa Institute, Brain Injury Association co-sponsor Walk for Thought

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute for Women of Saint Mary’s University and the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota are sponsoring a Walk for Thought fundraiser Saturday, Oct. 6, at Lake Winona.

The sixth annual Walk for Thought raises public awareness about brain injury and funding to support those affected by brain injury. Each year more than 20,000 Minnesotans sustain a traumatic brain injury from events such as motor vehicle crashes, falls and firearms — six times more than the combined annual number of people who will experience HIV/AIDS, breast cancer and multiple sclerosis. Despite this startling statistic, awareness about the causes and residual effects of brain injury remain low.

In 2007, the Walk for Thought will be at two other locations besides Winona, Canal Park in Duluth and Como Park in St. Paul. This marks the second time the walk has been held in Winona.

Registration and check-in for the Winona walk starts at 9 a.m. at the walk tent in the Kmart parking lot. The walk will begin at 10 a.m. To register online or for more information, go to www.braininjurymn.org.

Last year more than 1,000 participants and sponsors raised nearly $80,000 for the cause — and this year the goal is to raise a record-breaking $100,000 for the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota.

“While our goal is to continue raising awareness, this year's walk is of acute importance as one of our young students sustained a brain injury in an accident just weeks before school started,” said Holly Richard, director of the Saint Teresa Institute. “When intangible statistics become real within a small community, people take action. Brain injuries are very real, and we hope to get more people involved to support the work of the Brain Injury Association.”

The mission of the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota is to enhance the quality of life and bring the promise of a better tomorrow for all people affected by brain injury. Based in Minneapolis, the Association conducts support groups, holds education events for individuals impacted by brain injury and creates public awareness about brain injury, as the only cure is prevention.

The Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute for Women is a co-curricular women’s program that incorporates a leadership and service perspective into Saint Mary’s University general education courses.

Area businesses encouraged to donate to live auction, concert Sept. 7

WINONA, Minn. — The public is invited to join Saint Mary’s University for Rockin’ for Relief — a live concert to benefit flood victims in our surrounding communities. The event, which will include barbecued food, kids games and a live auction, will begin at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 7, in Saint Mary’s plaza.

Performing will be Bookreader, an SMU student band; SMU’s Adam Stasica; Winonan Mike Munson; and Monday Saga, a band from Milwaukee in which SMU alum Brandon Mathieus performs.

Big-ticket auction items will include a Wenonah Canoe, Twins Tickets, a Watkins basket, and Saint Paul Saints merchandise. Any local businesses wishing to donate to the live auction should contact Katie LaPlant (507) 457-6936.

Bring the whole family; admission will be $10 or $5 for students. A freewill donation will be asked for those younger than 12. Families will be admitted for $10 per adult and freewill donations for children.

The event is sponsored by Saint Mary’s Volunteer Services and Office of Campus Ministry. Modern Woodmen of America is providing matching funds up to $2,500.

First Page Series performance, Pavlo, on stage Sept. 14 at SMU

Pavlo, the first Page Series event, will perform Sept. 14.

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Page Series heats up for the 2008 season with the exciting and passionate Mediterranean-style music of Pavlo Friday, Sept. 14. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. in Page Theatre, located in the SMU Performance Center.

Pavlo expresses his influences — flamenco, Latin and classical — through his use of guitars, drums, the Greek bouzouki, and vocals. His musical style combines his childhood studies of flamenco and Latin guitar with his love for Greek and European music —combining for “the ultimate Mediterranean experience.” Pavlo’s fiery enthusiasm is contagious; audience members will be dancing in their seats.

His unique sound and high-energy concerts have earned him an international reputation as one of today’s great performers.

Tickets are $20, $14 for seniors or $12 for students and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org, in person, or by calling the Performance Center box office at (507) 457-1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.

SMU exhibit features diverse art through Oct. 5

Winona artist Monta May displays “Communion Circle: 1-10,” part of the dual show with Carol Faber, “Interstices” and “Images of Nature,” on display through Oct. 5 at Saint Mary’s University.




WINONA, Minn. — A variety of unique artwork — including a ceremonial robe, gourds, sculpture, photography, encaustic painting, charcoal drawings, and digital fine art prints — are currently on display at Saint Mary’s University’s Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Artists Monta May, director of web communication at Saint Mary’s, and Carol Faber, assistant professor of art and design at Iowa State University in Ames, are displaying their work through Oct. 5.

In “Interstices,” May displays encaustic paintings, an ancient art form involving pigment, wax, and heat. Her eye-catching grouping of 5- to 7-foot sculptures titled “Communion Circle: 1-10” meets viewers at the exhibit’s entrance.

May works with materials of all kinds — fabrics, metals, found objects, photographs, beeswax, dyes, inks, wood, clay, glass and paper — to create sculptures, tapestries, garment- and jewelry-inspired artwork. Her goal is to blur the line between art and craft, question the status quo, and build a connection between the ancient and the contemporary. May believes her experiences and involvements lead to fabric for her artwork. She finds rich material for art in diverse areas.

In “Images of Nature,” Faber presents large, bold pieces demonstrating how she uses the computer as an artistic tool of expression. She considers her work emotional responses to events and memories from specific parts of her life, making her artwork a kind of autobiographical record. Faber’s images are inspired by the accidental death of a horse she once owned named Ruby. The colorful, abstract designs depict Ruby’s death and Faber’s perception of the beauty her life gave back to nature.

The exhibit — free and open to the public — is located in SMU’s Toner Student Center. The galleries are open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call (507) 457-1652.

SMU receives ‘Best in Midwest’ honors from Princeton Review

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University is one of 161 schools receiving the “Best in the Midwest” designation for 2008 from the Princeton Review, a national college guide and ranking program. Results were announced in August.

Each year, the Princeton Review profiles colleges and universities that "uphold the standards of the Best Midwestern College distinction and provide students with a wide breadth of excellent schools to consider." The survey of 120,000 students at 366 colleges rated the schools on “everything from profs to financial aid,” according to the Princeton Review, a New York City-based company known for test-preparation courses, education services and books. It is not affiliated with Princeton University.

Other Minnesota schools included named to Princeton Review's 2008 "Best in the Midwest" list are: Augsburg, Carleton, Crown College, St. Thomas, Gustavus Adolphus, Macalester, Minneapolis College of Art and Design, North Central University, St. Olaf, St. Scholastica, St. Catherine, University of Minnesota (Morris, Twin Cities and Crookston campuses) and Winona State University.

For more information, go to www.princetonreview.com. The website gives a profile of Saint Mary's, along with student opinions and useful college selection features.

Saint Mary’s hosts pre-season basketball camp Sept. 16-Oct. 14

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Advanced Pre-Season Basketball camp — for boys and girls in grades eight through 12 — will run Sept. 16 through Oct. 14.

This camp will consist of five intense basketball workouts in September and October. Each workout will be directed by Mandy Pearson, Saint Mary’s Women’s Basketball coach, and Mike Trewick, SMU Men’s Basketball coach, and will focus on developing offensive skills with progressive development from session to session.

The camp is limited to 36 participants, so maximum repetitions and individualized instruction can take place. This camp is designed for serious basketball players who are looking to be challenged.

Boys meet 5 to 6:30 p.m., and girls meet 6:30 to 8 p.m. Camps run Sept. 16, 23 and 30, and Oct. 7 and 14.

The cost of $75 pr person includes a T-shirt and individual instruction by Saint Mary’s staff and players. All sessions will be held in the SMU gymnasium.

For more information, e-mail conferencing&camps@smumn.edu or call (507) 457-6973. Register and pay online at www.smumn.edu/sportscamps.

SMU students to perform,study in London first semester

Saint Mary’s University students are studying theatre in London, England, this semester. Rehearsing a scene from “The Shadow Box,” to be performed Oct. 17-20 in London, are Whitney Rappana, left, and Marty Walters.


Rachel Crawford-Miller, Alex Gorgone and Michael Fye will perform in “The Shadow Box,” to be staged Oct. 17-20 in London. In addition to their coursework, SMU students studying in London this semester will also attend numerous productions.


WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University theatre majors will stage “The Shadow Box,” an emotional — and sometimes amusing — reflection about life and death, Oct. 17-20 at London’s New Wimbledon Studio.

Qualified theatre majors at Saint Mary's are studying theatre in London, England, this semester through the Stefannié Valéncia Kierlin Theatre in London Program. Under the guidance of Saint Mary’s faculty, the program will include a variety of classes in theatre, as well as courses focusing on broader enrichment. Students will also have the unique opportunity to attend numerous performances at London’s West End, Off-West End, and Fringe theatres.

“The Shadow Box,” written by Michael Cristofer, dramatizes the final days of three terminal cancer patients who dwell in separate cottages on a hospital’s grounds. The 1977 Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning play explores their anxieties, as well as their acceptance of the finality of their condition, the inevitable and imminent end of their lives. Family and close friends who visit these patients add some heartrending — as well as humorous — situations.

Produced by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.
Director: Dr. Gary Diomandes
Assistant director: Sarah St. Laurent
Stage manager: Erica Prond
Lighting designer: Roger Frith
Performers: Alex Gorgone (Joe), Rachel Crawford-Miller (Maggie), Michael Fye (Steve), Mark Skrade (Brian), JM Montecalvo (Mark), Alyssa Schlageter (Beverly), Martha Walters (Felicity) and Whitney Rappana (Agnes), and Diana Connolly (Interviewer)

Conservatory registration open house is Sept. 6

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts semester I registration open house will be held 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 6, at the Valéncia Arts Center, located at the corner of 10th and Vila streets.

Registration for semester I classes, beginning Sept. 10, will be accepted at the open house. Tours of the facility will be available, refreshments will be served, and students will have the opportunity to meet new and returning faculty and staff. Additionally, students can be fitted for all their dance attire needs at the open house. MCA’s dance attire boutique offers quality basics including leotards, tights, ballet slippers, jazz shoes and tap shoes.

Class offerings are available for anyone age 4 through adult and include beginning through advanced levels in classical ballet, tap, jazz, modern, hip hop, Pilates, and a special tuition-free boys program which offers a Dance Technique for Boys class. Semester I also provides programming for teens and adults in partnership with Winona County Community Education including Clogging I, Clogging II, Dance Fitness and Piyo.

Academic credit is available through Cotter High School and Saint Mary’s University for a variety of MCA classes.

Semester I classes will provide 10 weeks of instruction, concluding with a demonstration week, Nov. 12-17. Tuition for MCA classes varies depending on course length and level. Discounts and scholarships are available.

In addition to participation in classes, students ages 5 to 12 are invited to audition for MCA’s youth performing troupe, The Dance Repertory Company II. The DRC II will present a winter showcase, with performances held Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 at the Valéncia Arts Center Academy Theatre. High school and college-age students who participate in the MCA Chorography and Improvisation class will have the opportunity to create and show their works in this winter showcase as well.

For more information about MCA’s open house, classes, or future performances, visit www.smumn.edu/mca, e-mail dance@smumn.edu or call (507) 453-5501.

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University.

SMU to host speaker on PATRIOT Act Sept. 18

WINONA, Minn. — A Connecticut librarian who is one of only four people in the nation who can legally discuss a gag order imposed as part of a USA PATRIOT Act investigation will speak at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18, at Saint Mary’s University.

The event — free and open to the public — will be held in Figliulo Recital Hall, located in the SMU Performance Center.

George Christian was party to a lawsuit that successfully challenged the gag order provision of the National Security Letter (NSL) statute. The NSL is part of the USA PATRIOT Act (Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism). In 2005, Christian was served by the FBI with an NSL demanding that he turn over records concerning library patrons’ use of computers, the Internet and e-mail.

“The idea that the government can secretly investigate what the public is informing itself about is chilling,” Christian says.

Christian and three colleagues are the only four people who can even mention they have been served with an NSL. Christian said the recipients of an estimated 270,000 other NSLs issued since 9-11 “are under a perpetual gag order and must therefore carry the secret of their encounter with them to their graves.”

The group has been featured in Washington Post and New York Times news stories, the Public Broadcasting System’s NOW program, the American Civil Liberties Union website, and other media outlets.

Christian’s appearance at Saint Mary’s is being held in conjunction with events for Constitution Day, which was instituted by the Bill of Rights Institute to “educate young people about the words and ideas of America's Founders, the liberties guaranteed in our founding documents, and how our founding principles continue to affect and shape a free society.”

For more information, contact Dr. Steven Schild, (507) 457-1753.

Conservatory wraps up successful summer

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts concluded a successful summer of programming for youth and adults.

MCA served 145 students this summer with dance and theatre programming. Programs included three week-long day camps (Dance Me A Story, Dance The Day Away, and Pied Piper Theatre Camp), adult and specialty boys workshops, and a three-week boarding intensive for intermediate and advanced students.

Theatre students had the opportunity to study with MCA faculty, as well as professional actors from Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre and Missoula Children’s Theatre. Dance students had the opportunity to study with MCA faculty, as well as visiting guest artists from around the country. Guest Artists included: Deborah Elias, Allen Fields, Stephanie Milling-Robbins, Tammy Schmidt Perry and Tony Smith.

In addition to many local students participating in MCA summer programming, the MCA Summer Intensive attracted students from as far away as Mexico and Bulgaria. This summer MCA had another record-breaking summer boys program enrollment as well.

“We are especially proud of our thriving tuition-free boys program,” said Christine Martin, MCA managing director. “As we reported to the community last spring, our boys programming is at its largest enrollment ever. Bringing in quality male guest artists to instruct our young men is an important part of the MCA Boys Program experience.”

For more information about MCA and upcoming fall classes and performances, visit www.smumn.edu/mca, e-mail dance@smumn.edu or call (507) 453-5500.

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

Conservatory wraps up successful summer of theatre, dance programming

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts concluded a successful summer of programming for youth and adults.

MCA served 145 students this summer with dance and theatre programming. Programs included three week-long day camps (Dance Me A Story, Dance The Day Away, and Pied Piper Theatre Camp), adult and specialty boys workshops, and a three-week boarding intensive for intermediate and advanced students.

Theatre students had the opportunity to study with MCA faculty, as well as professional actors from Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre and Missoula Children’s Theatre. Dance students had the opportunity to study with MCA faculty, as well as visiting guest artists from around the country. Guest Artists included: Deborah Elias, Allen Fields, Stephanie Milling-Robbins, Tammy Schmidt Perry and Tony Smith.

In addition to many local students participating in MCA summer programming, the MCA Summer Intensive attracted students from as far away as Mexico and Bulgaria. This summer MCA had another record-breaking summer boys program enrollment as well.

“We are especially proud of our thriving tuition-free boys program,” said Christine Martin, MCA managing director. “As we reported to the community last spring, our boys programming is at its largest enrollment ever. Bringing in quality male guest artists to instruct our young men is an important part of the MCA Boys Program experience.”

For more information about MCA and upcoming fall classes and performances, visit www.smumn.edu/mca, e-mail dance@smumn.edu or call (507) 453-5500.

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.