Founder’s Day honors three

Top left: Ana Sontag, Outstanding Female Senior

Top right: Kevin Black, Outstanding Male Senior

Bottom: Alan Joswick, 2008 Heffron Award winner




A dedicated staff member and two outstanding seniors were honored at Founder’s Day Tuesday, Feb. 26.

The 2008 Bishop Patrick Heffron Award for Service to the University was presented to Al Joswick. Joswick has worked in the Maintenance Department on the Winona campus since 1976 and is currently the trades department supervisor.

The Outstanding Male and Female Senior Awards were presented to students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership, service to colleagues and the university community. Above all, these men and women have shown genuine concern for meeting the needs of others.

The Outstanding Male Senior Award went to Kevin Black, son of Jeff and Mary Pat Black of Mahtomedi, Minn. The Outstanding Female Senior Award went to Anastacia Sontag, daughter of Mike and Yvonne Sontag of Minneota, Minn.

Chicago Convention planned for Feb. 29-March 1

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota will feature staff, students and faculty from Saint Mary’s – along with notable SMU alumni from the Chicago area – during this weekend’s Chicago convention for prospective students and alumni.

The third “SMU Convention – Chicago” will bring more than 100 Saint Mary’s faculty, staff and current students to the Westin Chicago Northwest Hotel in Itasca. Prospective students, families and alumni will be treated to activities and demonstrations, lunch and a keynote speaker, entertainment, and information booths that showcase the university.

Convention-goers will meet with professors, coaches and admission staff, sample a variety of refreshments, enjoy a live musical performance, and take their chances with games and giveaways.

A special pre-convention reception Friday, Feb. 29, from 7 to 11 p.m. is reserved for alumni to socialize, meet with Saint Mary’s faculty and staff, and enjoy a silent auction.

Saturday, March 1, the convention opens at 9 a.m. with exhibitor booths and displays. A free convention luncheon begins at 11:45 a.m., hosted by Walter ’81, Tim ’85, and Mark ’86 Smithe of Walter E. Smithe Furniture Company, featuring a keynote speech from John McDonough ’75, president of the Chicago Blackhawks.

To find a link to the Smithe brothers television promotion for Saint Mary’s Chicago Convention, go to www.smumn.edu/convention.

From 10 to 11 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, fun and educational breakout sessions will be offered by faculty, staff and noted alumni. From 11 to 11:45 a.m., the Oldie Moldie All-Stars will perform hits from the ’50s and ’60s. The convention adjourns at 4 p.m.

SMU theatre students stage drama through March 3

A rural diner gets a rude awakening when staff and customers are held hostage at the hands of an unstable madman during Saint Mary’s University’s production of “When You Comin’ Back Red Ryder?” The SMU Department of Theatre Arts is staging the disturbing drama now through March 3, in the Valéncia Arts Center Academy Theatre.

When Teddy, a Vietnam veteran teetering on the edge of madness, and his young girlfriend barge into a forgotten New Mexico roadside diner, nothing will ever be the same for its five occupants. Teddy uses personal threats and wit to psychologically dismember his hostages. “Red Ryder’s” underlying theme includes a longing for the past – for childhood, for the innocence of the ’50s with its cowboy heroes. Just as the diner’s customers and staff will never be the same, author Mark Howard Medoff is telling his audience that this age of innocence is gone forever.

Performances, under the direction of Dr. Gary Diomandes, are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Monday, Feb. 29, March 1 and 3. A matinee performance is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, March. 2.

“Red Ryder” is for mature audiences only; the content includes adult language and violence. Tickets for the show are $8, $6 for students and seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Country singer Josh Gracin to perform at SMU March 13

Josh Gracin

The Roosters

Country music singer Josh Gracin will headline a public concert Thursday, March 13, in Saint Mary’s gymnasium.

Gracin’s self-titled debuted album is edging in on platinum status. With the No. 1 hit “Nothin’ to Lose” and other hits, “I Want to Live” and “Stay with Me (Brass Bed),” Gracin has established himself as a leading country singer since gaining his fame from the hit reality series “American Idol,” where he finished fourth during the show’s second season. In 2003, Gracin also contributed the song “Working for the Weekend” to the Herbie: Fully Loaded soundtrack, and he also sang on “When I See an Elephant Fly” on the Jim Brickman album, The Disney Songbook. Gracin, a former U.S. Marine and Michigan native, entertains his audiences with energetic stage performances and rocking country music.

Opening for Gracin is The Roosters, a Minnesota country band whose single “Sorry Bout the Mess,” released in April 2007, has been gaining popularity on Sirius Satellite Radio.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. No food or drinks are allowed in the gymnasium. SMU’s Student Activities Committee is sponsoring the concert.

Tickets are free for SMU students with ID, $10 for an SMU guest, and $15 for the general public. Tickets are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, online at www.smumn.edu/gracintickets, or are available for purchase at the door.

Faculty invited to share talents in faculty revue March 27

Hey faculty! Do you play a musical instrument, dance, write poetry, or any other artistic skill? The junior class is looking for participants for this year’s faculty revue, to be held 7 p.m. March 27 in the Common Room.

Contact Russell Mollo (ramoll05@smumn.edu) or Neil Leibundguth at (nmleib05@smumn.edu) if you have any questions or if you would like to participate.

Page Series to present San Jose Taiko March 10

Saint Mary’s University’s Page Series will host the powerful, spellbinding and propulsive sounds of San Jose Taiko 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 10.

Taiko — the Japanese drum — is an instrument that embodies the spiritual essence and the heartbeat of Japan and its people. Priests used taiko to chase evil spirits and the insects from the rice fields; samurai used taiko to bolster their courage and to instill fear in the enemy; villagers used taiko to pray for rain, to enliven festivals and to give thanks for bountiful harvests.

San Jose Taiko has adopted these traditional values and infused the art of taiko with the vitality and freshness of their American spirit to create a dynamic and compelling Asian American art form. The music of San Jose Taiko weaves traditional Japanese sounds with the beat of world rhythms.

Tickets for the Page Theatre performance are $20, $14 for seniors, $12 for students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Group photo show on display through March 29 at SMU

Rus Hurt is one of five photographers displaying in "Tempus Fugit" Feb. 28-March 29.

Five area photographers will display assorted nature and documentary work through March 29 at Saint Mary’s University.

The exhibit, titled “Tempus Fugit” or “Time Flies,” will be on display at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, and will include work by Wade Britzius, Rus Hurt, Kathy Greden, Ron Reimer and Jim Risser.

Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Next ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ is hotdish extravaganza

Mark your calendars for the next Let’s Do Lunch, March 13. The Office of Admission will host “Minnesota Hot Dishes.” Proceeds continue to benefit SMU faculty and staff who were affected by the August flood.

SMU to host regional science fair today, Feb. 29

Saint Mary’s will host the Regional Science Fair Friday, Feb. 29. Approximately 250 area students in grades seven through 12 will display their work in biology, physics and chemistry, behavior science, computer science, math and social sciences.

Women’s History Month Reception is March 6

The annual Women’s History Month Reception will be held on Thursday, March 6, (International Women’s Day) in the Common Room from 4 to 6 p.m. All SMU women and men faculty, staff, and students are invited to come and celebrate “Women’s Art: Women’s Vision.”

The originality, beauty, imagination and multiple dimensions of women’s lives will be honored in several ways including a display of student-made collages honoring various women artists, a display of snapshots that capture the lives of women at SMU in 2008, and a do-it-yourself art corner. There will also be music, refreshments, door prizes and good conversation. The reception is sponsored by the Women’s Programming Office and the Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute for Women. The Art Club, Public Relations Club, and members of SAI will also contributed to the celebration. Invite a friend or students and come to this popular event.

For more information about Women’s History month, go to www.nwhp.org

Formation & Mission Council travels to Rome

Members of the University Council for Lasallian Formation and Mission include, from left: front, Sarah Fischer; Val Fitzgerald; Sr. Judy Schaefer; standing, Br. Alberto Gomez, General Councilor; Simon Wachira, Nairobi campus; Br. Robert Schieler, General Councilor; Br. Jorge Gallardo, General Councilor; Tim Gossen; Dr. Mary Louise Wise, Dr. Mary Fox; Br. Lawrence Humphrey; Dr. Roxanne Eubank; Dr. Stephen Pattee, Dr. Deborah Pattee; Dr. Greg Sobolewski; Br. David Hawke, General Councilor; Valerie Robeson; Dr. Dorothy Diehl; John Schollmeier; Br. Alvaro Rodriguez Echeverria, Superior General; Dr. Thomas Mans; Ann Smith; Br. William Mann, president-elect; Dr. Jerry Ellis. Not pictured is Mary Thole.

The University Council for Lasallian Formation and Mission traveled to Rome and the international center of the Christian Brothers for a week of Lasallian formation, Feb. 10-16.

The group was welcomed to the Generalate by the General Council of the Christian Brothers who hosted a reception for the Saint Mary’s Council members their first evening in Rome. Although the SMU Council members were exhausted from traveling, the warm welcome received by the Brother Councilors set the tone for an exciting week.

The week-long program consisted of the following themes: The Lasallian Story, Catholic Intellectual Tradition, Lasallian Charism and Association, Catholic Social Teaching, Lasallian Higher Education, and Spirituality. Speakers included representatives from the international leadership of the Christian Brothers, including Brother Thomas Johnson, Vicar General; Brothers Claude Reinhardt, General Councilor in Rome; Robert Schieler, General Councilor for the USA-Toronto Region; Brother John Cantwell of the International Lasallian Center staff; Brother Alain Houry, Archivist; and Brother. William Mann, President-Elect of Saint Mary’s. Additional speakers from The Angelicum University and the Pontifical Council for the Laity rounded out the program. Speakers represented Australia, France, Peru and the United States and provided the Council with a perspective of the international nature of Lasallian education.

The week was capped off with a Commissioning Ceremony that was presided over by Brother Álvaro Rodríguez Echeverría, Superior General of the Brothers of the Christian Schools.

The Council was formed last September by Brother Chancellor Louis DeThomasis to develop, guide and nurture the Lasallian charism of the university. It is comprised of 14 members of the faculty and staff from both the Winona and Twin Cities campuses. Dr. Mary Fox has served as coordinator of the Winona division and Dr. Roxanne Eubank serves as coordinator of the SGPP division. Brother Lawrence Humphrey, Director of the Office of Mission, serves as moderator of the Council.

In Rome, the Council was joined by Dr. Thomas Mans, Academic Vice President for the college, and Mr. Simon Wachira, representing the Nairobi campus of Saint Mary’s. Brother William Mann, president-elect, was able to be with the Council for the entire week, as well as present to a session on Lasallian Spirituality.

“Both Rome and the international Generalate of the Brothers worked their magic on the group,” according to Brother Lawrence, Council moderator. “The experience of being at the center of the Institute, and the opportunity to learn from its international leadership, provided a uniquely remarkable experience for the SMU Council. Our time together in Rome has served to intensify our commitment to further the Lasallian mission of Saint Mary’s.”

Biology seminars planned

On Thursday, March 6, Scott J. Brejcha, senior ecologist and project manager, V3 Companies of Illinois Ltd., and an SMU alumnus, will speak to students about Wetland Field Internships with his company in Woodridge, Ill., during the summer term. Joining him will be Keith Jones, V3 internship coordinator.

On Thursday, March 13, Dr. Richard Kowles, professor of biology, will present, “Maternal Effect - The Importance of Mama.”

All talks begin at 4 p.m. and are in Room 112 in Hoffman Hall.

Employee changes

New employees:
• Pushpa Sudhakaran, Feb. 25, GSS iT support specialist
• Adrianne Olson, Feb. 18, website editor
• Hanad Ahmad, Feb. 5, TC security guard
• Lyle Ferguson, Feb. 5, TC security guard
• Gary Schmaltz, Feb. 5, TC security guard
• Bernell Beal, Feb. 4, TC security guard
• Natalie Novacek, Jan. 30, TC admin. assistant, M.A. Education

Leaving:
• Gregory Holz, Feb. 29, custodian
• Linda Frisbee, Feb. 29, TC program director
• James Bloedorn, Feb. 29, GSS system support
• Jennalee Paulson, Feb. 22, admin. assistant, Wellness Center
• James Callinan, Feb. 9, admissions counselor

Final round of High School Challenge is Saturday

On Saturday, Feb. 23, Saint Mary’s will host the final round of High School Challenge. The competition has now been going on for 37 years and is the oldest academic competition for high school students in the area. High School Challenge began in October, showcasing 32 teams from Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa.

The final event begins at 8:30 a.m. in Page Theatre with with the consolation championship between Onalaska and La Crescent. Afterwards, the final run for the Super Challenge begins, with brackets holding teams from Viroqua, Winona Senior High, La Crosse Central, West Salem, North Crawford, Eau Claire Regis, Seneca, and La Crosse Aquinas. Everyone is invited to come and observe the final round of 2007/2008 High School Super Challenge.

The games will be taped by Fox 25/Fox 48 and aired Sundays, March 9 through April 27, from 10:30 to 11 a.m.

Founder’s Day to honor three

Each year, Saint Mary’s University celebrates its founding with a special Mass and convocation. All faculty, staff and students are invited and encouraged to attend the Founder's Day festivities on Tuesday, Feb. 26. Mass will be in Saint Thomas More Chapel at 11 a.m., with Father Steffes as the principal celebrant. The convocation will be in Page Theatre at 1:15 p.m. The convocation will include the presentation of the following awards:

Outstanding Senior Female — Finalists are Lindsay Dickson, Laura Holupchinski, Amy Kalina, Kasey Schultz and Ana Sontag.

Outstanding Senior Male — Finalists are Kevin Black, Jeff David, Alex Downes-Borowski, John Freeman and Rick McCoy.

Bishop Heffron Award for Service to the University — Alan Joswick, Trades Department supervisor.

The following class schedule will be observed:

7:45-9 a.m. classes meet 8-8:50 a.m.
9:15-10:30 a.m. classes meet 9-9:50 a.m.
10:45-noon classes meet 10-10:50 a.m.
12:15-1:30 p.m. classes meet 3-3:50 p.m.
1:45-3 p.m. classes meet 4-4:50 p.m.

Classes that meet any time after 3 p.m. will start at 5 p.m. and end at the discretion of the instructor.

Chicago Convention planned for Feb. 29-March 1

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota will feature staff, students and faculty from Saint Mary’s – along with notable SMU alumni from the Chicago area – during its upcoming Chicago convention for prospective students and alumni.

The third “SMU Convention – Chicago” will bring more than 100 Saint Mary’s faculty, staff and current students to the Westin Chicago Northwest Hotel in Itasca. Prospective students, families and alumni will be treated to activities and demonstrations, lunch and a keynote speaker, entertainment, and information booths that showcase the university.

Convention-goers will meet with professors, coaches and admission staff, sample a variety of refreshments, enjoy a live musical performance, and take their chances with games and giveaways.

A special pre-convention reception Friday, Feb. 29, from 7 to 11 p.m. is reserved for alumni to socialize, meet with Saint Mary’s faculty and staff, and enjoy a silent auction.

Saturday, March 1, the convention opens at 9 a.m. with exhibitor booths and displays. A free convention luncheon begins at 11:45 a.m., hosted by Walter ’81, Tim ’85, and Mark ’86 Smithe of Walter E. Smithe Furniture Company, featuring a keynote speech from John McDonough ’75, president of the Chicago Blackhawks.

From 10 to 11 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, fun and educational breakout sessions will be offered by faculty, staff and noted alumni. From 11 to 11:45 a.m., the Oldie Moldie All-Stars will perform hits from the ’50s and ’60s. The convention adjourns at 4 p.m.

For more information, contact Meg Richtman, convention coordinator, Ext. 1499, or go online to www.smumn.edu/convention.

Students go on tour; business plan winners announced

On Wednesday, Feb. 20, students in Sharon O’Reilly’s Advanced Entrepreneurship Seminar course toured Wenonah Canoe in Winona. The business tour was sponsored by the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies. As part of the tour, Mike Cichanowski, owner and founder of Wenonah Canoe, spoke to the students about his entrepreneurial experiences.

Also, eight business plan proposals were submitted for the first student-run business plan competition sponsored by the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies. The winning proposals were announced Feb. 11.

The results: first place: “Spectrum Printing and Design” submitted by Andrea Hills and Sheila Tierney; second place: “The SMUthie” submitted by Amanda Christman and Chris Schleper; third place: “naterscom” submitted by Nathan Pattee.

The winning students will receive cash awards funded by the Kabara Institute. The first-place winners have been invited to represent the Kabara Institute at the Chicago Convention Feb. 29-March 1 and highlight their business plan proposal during a convention break-out session.

SMU collaborates with ‘Our Drinking Fountains, Our Water’ program

Five local institutions will collaborate with Minneapolis-based In the Heart of the Beast Puppet-Mask Theater to spearhead a community-wide program, “Our Drinking Fountains, Our Water.” SMU, Winona State University, Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical, Southeast Minnesota Water Resources Board and the City of Winona will incorporate the water theme into classes, presentations and activities, beginning in fall of 2008.

Plans also include the highlighting and decorating of public drinking fountains on the college campuses and in the City of Winona as well as raising awareness through visual art and performance. The goal of the project is for the community to achieve a broader and deeper understanding of water quality and stewardship.

This project is funded by the State of Minnesota through the Minnesota Campus Compact. For more information, contact Joan Francioni, 457-2336, jfrancioni@winona.edu.

SMU theatre students stage drama Feb. 28-March 3

A rural diner gets a rude awakening when staff and customers are held hostage at the hands of an unstable madman during Saint Mary’s University’s production of “When You Comin’ Back Red Ryder?” The SMU Department of Theatre Arts will stage the disturbing drama Feb. 28-March 3, in the Valéncia Arts Center Academy Theatre.

When Teddy, a Vietnam veteran teetering on the edge of madness, and his young girlfriend barge into a forgotten New Mexico roadside diner, nothing will ever be the same for its five occupants. Teddy uses personal threats and wit to psychologically dismember his hostages. “Red Ryder’s” underlying theme includes a longing for the past – for childhood, for the innocence of the ’50s with its cowboy heroes. Just as the diner’s customers and staff will never be the same, author Mark Howard Medoff is telling his audience that this age of innocence is gone forever.

Performances, under the direction of Dr. Gary Diomandes, are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Monday, Feb. 28, 29, March 1 and 3. A matinee performance is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, March. 2.

“Red Ryder” is for mature audiences only; the content includes adult language and violence. Tickets for the show are $8, $6 for students and seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Faculty invited to share talents in faculty review March 27

Hey faculty! Do you play a musical instrument, dance, write poetry, or any other artistic skill? The junior class is looking for participants for this year’s faculty review, to be held 7 p.m. March 27 in the Common Room.

Contact Russell Mollo (ramoll05@smumn.edu) or Neil Leibundguth at (nmleib05@smumn.edu) if you have any questions or if you would like to participate.

SMU Page Series to present San Jose Taiko March 10

Saint Mary’s University’s Page Series will host the powerful, spellbinding and propulsive sounds of San Jose Taiko 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 10.

Taiko — the Japanese drum — is an instrument that embodies the spiritual essence and the heartbeat of Japan and its people. Priests used taiko to chase evil spirits and the insects from the rice fields; samurai used taiko to bolster their courage and to instill fear in the enemy; villagers used taiko to pray for rain, to enliven festivals and to give thanks for bountiful harvests.

San Jose Taiko has adopted these traditional values and infused the art of taiko with the vitality and freshness of their American spirit to create a dynamic and compelling Asian American art form. The music of San Jose Taiko weaves traditional Japanese sounds with the beat of world rhythms. African, Alinese, Latin, American rock and jazz merge to produce an innovative contemporary sound that brings diverse styles and resonates with the soul.

Tickets for the Page Theatre performance are $20, $14 for seniors, $12 for students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 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 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.

Group photo show on display Feb. 28-March 29 at SMU

Rus Hurt is one of five photographers displaying in "Tempus Fugit" Feb. 28-March 29.

Five area photographers will display assorted nature and documentary work Feb. 28 through March 29 at Saint Mary’s.

The exhibit, which will be on display at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, will include work by Wade Britzius, Rus Hurt, Kathy Greden, Ron Reimer and Jim Risser.

An opening reception is scheduled for 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28. Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Next ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ is hotdish extravaganza

Mark your calendars for the next Let’s Do Lunch March 13. The Office of Admission will host “Minnesota Hot Dishes.” Proceeds continue to benefit SMU faculty and staff who were affected by the August flood.

Results of the chili cookoff Thursday are: First, John Schollmeier, maintenance; second, Deb Nahrgang, communication and marketing; third, June Fox, student services. The event raised $205.

Gaslight auditions are Feb. 22-24

Gaslight 2008 auditions will be held 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23; and noon to 5 pm. Sunday, Feb. 24, at the Phi Mu Alpha Room 16, Toner Student Center basement.

Sign-ups are posted on the Phi Mu Alpha room door. For questions or rehearsal times, contact Neil Olstad (ndolst04@smumn.edu,) Anna Skonieczny, or Lindsay Dickson.

‘Fireside’ will be Feb. 22-23

‘Fireside,’ a coffee-house style talent show sponsored by the sisters of Sigma Alpha Iota, will be held Feb. 22-23. For more information, contact Nicole at nlschr04@smumn.edu or Brookly at baheff04 @smumn.edu. Tickets are available today at lunch and dinner.

SMU to host regional science fair Feb. 29

Saint Mary’s will host the Regional Science Fair Feb. 29. Approximately 250 area students in grades seven through 12 will display their work in biology, physics and chemistry, behavior science, computer science, math and social sciences.

SMU faculty, student musicians at music education conference

Five SMU students attended the state Music Education Winter Clinic including, from left: back, Jeremy Johnston, Ryan Ballanger, Tom Briese; front, Gosia Paidosh and Samantha Kirsch. Paidosh worked with conference clinic staff, and the others performed in the Intercollegiate Honor Band.

Two members of Saint Mary’s music faculty, Dr. Janet Heukeshoven and Denny McGuire, and five SMU students participated in the Minnesota music education conference at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Four SMU students performed in the select Intercollegiate Honor Band including: Jeremy Johnston, percussion; Ryan Ballanger, clarinet; Tom Briese, trombone; and Samantha Kirsch, clarinet. Gosia Paidosh, a music major, worked with conference clinic staff.

Dr. Heukeshoven was one of five collegiate conductors chosen to direct this year's Intercollegiate Honor Band. She directed the 2006-07 Kaplan Foundation/SMU Concert Band commissioned work, “Israeli Rhapsody” by internationally recognized composer Judith Zaimont. She also conducted the work with the Virginia Intercollegiate Honor Band at the University of Mary Washington.

Dr. Heukeshoven serves as collegiate representative on the Minnesota Music Educators Association Board of Directors, and also assisted with clinic sessions, the SMU exhibit booth, and conference logistics.

While attending the conference, Heukeshoven accepted the All-Steinway School Award on behalf of the SMU Music Department. For more information, visit www.smumn.edu/music.

Additionally, adjunct music faculty member Denny McGuire presented a session at the state music education conference, titled: “Batucata!” The overall theme of the conference was “Embracing World Music — Embracing Local Traditions.” McGuire presented an interactive session designed to assist in-service music educators at all levels.

Mathews to address personality disorders Feb. 27

Dr. Ruth Mathews from the Wellness Center will present an overview of the 10 personality disorders identified in the diagnostic manual on mental disorders from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 27.

Personality disorders are defined as enduring (inflexible and pervasive) patterns of inner experience and behavior that deviate markedly from the expectations of the individual’s culture leading to significant distress and impairment. Categories include antisocial, narcissistic, avoidant, dependent, and paranoid personality disorders. Treatment issues and strategies will be briefly addressed.

The event will be held in Figliulo Recital Hall and is free with your SMU ID and open to the public.

Three SMU students show research at Capitol

Three students from Saint Mary’s, along with their faculty advisors, traveled to the Minnesota State Capitol Rotunda on Thursday, Feb. 21, to present the results of their independent research and creative scholarship at the annual Minnesota Private College Scholars at the Capitol event.

The Minnesota Private College Council hosts this event in an attempt to publicize and celebrate the achievements of just a few of the many thousands of students who attend private schools of higher learning in Minnesota, and to share research that may have long-term implications for Minnesotans.

The event showcased current research projects completed by undergraduate scholars from Minnesota private colleges and universities. Saint Mary’s students attending this year’s event included:

• Sarah Jo Schroeder, Aurora, Minn., presenting on “The Examination of the Diet of the Freshwater Drum, Aplodinorus Grunniens, for Zebra Mussels, Dreissena Polymorpha, from the Mississippi River.”
• Anna Skonieczny of Freeport, Ill., presenting on “The Effects of Demethylating and Methylating Chemicals on Mitotic Activity of Vicia faba in Different Stages of the Cell Cycle.”
• Laura Eggert of St. Michael, Minn., and former student Victoria Evans, presenting on “The Physiological Responses of Lepomis gibbosus and Mus musculus to Noturus gyrinus Toxin.”

Internationally known coaches to lead figure skating camp

Three internationally known figure skating coaches will lead “Turning Point 2008,” a figure skating camp hosted by the Winona Figure Skating Club July 27-31 at Saint Mary’s. The camp, the first of its kind in the area, will feature:

• Evelyn Kramer (“The Spin Doctor”), an Olympic and World International coach who has worked with Peggy Fleming and Michelle Kwan, to name a few.

• Scott Brown, a national, world and Olympic choreographer who has worked with athletes from more than 18 different countries. He also starred in the Ice Capades and is best known for his innovative and authentic choreography.

• Janet Champion, a Master-Rated coach in school figure, freeskating and group instruction, as well as “moves in the field,” which is the national testing system for figure skaters that she helped originate.

Besides on-ice instruction, campers will have off-ice training, such as ballet classes, Pilates, nutrition, strength training and injury prevention classes. Residential campers will stay in the SMU dorms and eat meals on campus. Day camps — for those who do not wish to stay overnight will be offered — as well.

For more information or to register for “Turning Point 2008,” go to the Winona Figure Skating Club website, www.winonafigureskating.org.

News from Nairobi

The MIAS educational method trains students to use the skills acquired through their courses in their various vocations/ministries in society.

Recently a student from the Cameroon wrote that he is using his MIASMU cultural training to work with people in Gabon where he was posted for ministry.

The skills he gained from field research in Nairobi have enabled him to freely interact with his parishioners in that country even though their cultures and languages are much different from his own. He further stated that he has gained respect from the people owing to the way in which he is able to relate with them in an adult manner — a clear example of the long-term value of MIASMU’s systematic cultural training.

Bearbower recognized as patriotic employer

Sarah Bearbower, Information Technology manager, was recognized as a “patriotic employer” by the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. Patriot Awards are given to employers who contribute to national security by supporting employee participation in America’s National Guard and reserve force.

Country singer Josh Gracin to perform at SMU March 13

National country star Josh Gracin will perform March 13 at Saint Mary’s gymnasium. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Admission is free for SMU students and $10 for an additional SMU guest or $15 for the general public and are available at the SMU box office. Tickets will also be available at the door; bring your SMU ID. No food or drink will be allowed in the gym. Watch for more information.

Save the date for next inauguration, Sept. 26

The presidential inauguration for Brother William Mann has been set for Sept. 26 on the Winona campus. Mark your calendars and adjust your schedules accordingly. Classes will be cancelled on that date so that all faculty, staff and students can enjoy the day.

Additionally, a public Winona welcome has been set for Brother William on Wednesday, June 18.

Plan ahead for these community celebrations in honor of our 13th president.

Founder’s Day to honor three

Alan Joswick, Trades Department supervisor, will receive 2008 Bishop Patrick Heffron Award for Service, and the 2008 Outstanding Male and Female Students will be named during the Founder’s Day Convocation Feb. 26. Mass will be held at 11 a.m., and convocation begins at 1:15 p.m. in Page Theatre; a reception will follow the convocation.

Students are groovin’ during rehearsals for Candlelight

Saint Mary’s University Student’s, Alex Gorgone, left, and Moreen Bosch, right, rehearse for the “Candlelight Outta Sight!” performance Feb. 9. SMU students will perform a variety of ’60s and ’70s favorites during the formal dinner.

Students have been getting back into the groove while rehearsing for “Candlelight, Outta Sight!” at Saint Mary’s University, which will provide a flashback to the era of peace and love on Feb. 9.

A select group of SMU theatre and music students will perform a variety of well-known favorites from the ’60s and early ’70s including “Build me up Buttercup,” “All You Need is Love,” “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” as well as many, many more throughout the evening. After a five-course dinner, the seven-piece Diane Martinson Band will entice those in attendance to hit the dance floor.
Read more...

Candlelight is a community event, hosted biennially by the university. Formerly a fund-raiser, the event is now simply a fun evening, a formal celebration of the university and a thank you to the community for its support.

The evening will begin with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails at 6 p.m. in the lounge, followed by dinner in the dining hall, both in the Toner Student Center. The cost is $75 per person or $140 per couple. Dress is formal attire, and valet parking and coat check services will be available.

If you’d still like to attend, call Jo Nesler, Ext. 1664.

Chicago Convention planned for Feb. 29-March 1

Mark your calendars for Feb. 29 and March 1, as Saint Mary’s faculty, staff and students will once again hit the road to reconnect with alumni and friends, meet prospective students and share our SMU with Chicago.

A special pre-convention reception Friday, Feb. 29, from 7 to 11 p.m., is reserved for alumni to socialize, meet with Saint Mary’s faculty and staff, and enjoy a silent auction. Additionally, this year’s retiring faculty will be recognized.
Read more...

Saturday, March 1, the convention opens at 9 a.m. with exhibitor booths and displays. A free convention luncheon begins at 11 a.m., hosted by Walter ’81, Tim ’85, and Mark ’86 Smithe of Walter E. Smithe Furniture Company, featuring a keynote speech from John McDonough, president of the Chicago Blackhawks and a 1975 Saint Mary’s alumnus.

From 10 to 11 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, fun and educational breakout sessions will be offered by faculty, staff and students. From 11 to 11:45 a.m., the Oldie Moldie All-Stars will perform hits from the ’50s and ’60s. The convention adjourns at 4 p.m.

For more details, go to www.smumn.edu/convention.

SMU Page Series to present vocal talents of Chic Gamine

The rhythmic voices of Chic Gamine will fill Saint Mary’s Page Theatre with a unique harmonious blend of soulful music Wednesday, Feb. 20. SMU’s Page Series will present the all-women vocal group, beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Performance Center.

Chic Gamine, a French-Canadian group of five women, uses a male solo percussionist as their only musical support. Their voices become their instruments as they launch into intricate string arrangements, bass-heavy rhythm sections and melodious harmonies. Together they create a sound that resounds with passion and their own particular brand of humor that leaves audiences begging for more.
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The members of the group have been singing together in various formations since 1997. Most recently, three of them were members of the acclaimed world vocal ensemble Madrigaia, and look to embellish that legacy with new, original material. Their performance will draw from “soul, world and roots” – including African, Middle-Eastern, South-American music and, of course, French-Canadian Folk.

Tickets are $18, $12 for seniors, $10 for students, and are available by calling the Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 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 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.

SMU theatre students stage drama Feb. 28-March 3

A rural diner gets a rude awakening when staff and customers are held hostage at the hands of an unstable madman during Saint Mary’s University’s production of “When You Comin’ Back Red Ryder?” The SMU Department of Theatre Arts will stage the disturbing drama Feb. 28-March 3, in the Valéncia Arts Center Academy Theatre.

When Teddy, a Vietnam veteran teetering on the edge of madness, and his young girlfriend barge into a forgotten New Mexico roadside diner, nothing will ever be the same for its five occupants.
Read more... Teddy uses personal threats and wit to psychologically dismember his hostages. “Red Ryder’s” underlying theme includes a longing for the past – for childhood, for the innocence of the ’50s with its cowboy heroes. Just as the diner’s customers and staff will never be the same, author Mark Howard Medoff is telling his audience that this age of innocence is gone forever.

Performances, under the direction of Dr. Gary Diomandes, are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Monday, Feb. 28, 29, March 1 and 3. A matinee performance is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, March. 2.

“Red Ryder” is for mature audiences only; the content includes adult language and violence. Tickets for the show are $8, $6 for students and seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Faculty invited to share talents in faculty review March 27

Hey faculty! Do you play a musically instrument, dance, write poetry, or any other artistic skill? Do you want to show off this special ability to your students? The junior class is looking for participants for this year’s faculty review, to be held 7 p.m. March 27 in the Common Room.

Contact Russell Mollo (ramoll05@smumn.edu) or Neil Leibundguth at (nmleib05@smumn.edu) if you have any questions or if you would like to participate.

SMU Chamber Singers to perform in Madison, Victoria

The Saint Mary’s Chamber Singers will perform a series of concerts in Madison, Wis., and Victoria, Minn., as part of their 2008 Concert Tour. The 22-voice select ensemble is directed by Dr. Patrick O’Shea, associate professor of music and Music Department chairman.
Read more... Tour performances will include concerts at:

• St. James Catholic Church (Madison, Wis.) – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 13
• St. Victoria Catholic Church (Victoria, Minn.) – 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 15.

The Chamber Singers will also serve as the guest choir for Masses at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis at 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, and at the Cathedral of St. Paul at 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17.

All performances are free and open to the public. Repertoire will include a cappella works by Palestrina, Lauridsen, Stenhammar, and Ginastera, as well as English madrigals and spirituals.

For more information, call O’Shea at Ext. 1598.

SMU faculty join forces for ‘Ignes Fatui’ art show

“Flower of Youth” Giclee by Brother Roderick Robertson, FSC, one of eight Saint Mary’s University faculty displaying work in “Ignes Fatui” through Feb. 17 at SMU.
Eight Saint Mary’s University art faculty members have joined forces for the next exhibit, “Ignes Fatui,” in SMU’s Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Displaying works are Preston Lawing, Robert McColl, Charles Campbell, Randi Campbell, Sister Margaret Mear, Brother Roderick Robertson, Michelle Cochran and Dr. John Whelan.

The exhibit will run through Feb. 17. Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Next ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ is chili cookoff

Mark your calendars for the next Let’s Do Lunch. Proceeds continue to benefit SMU faculty and staff who were affected by the August flood. Feb. 21 is the chili cookoff; all faculty and staff are invited to compete for prizes.

Gaslight auditions are Feb. 22-24

Gaslight 2008 auditions will be held 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23; and noon to 5 pm. Sunday Feb. 24 at the Phi Mu Alpha Room 16, Toner Student Center Basement.

Sign-ups are posted on the Phi Mu Alpha room door, which is also available for rehearsals. For questions or rehearsal times, please contact Neil Olstad (ndolst04@smumn.edu,) Anna Skonieczny, or Lindsay Dickson.

Heukeshoven directs Metro area High School Honor Band

Dr. Janet Heukeshoven served as clinician/conductor of the Tri-Metro Honor Band as part of the Tri-Metro Fine Arts Festival on Monday, Feb. 4. The day-long festival concluded with performances by the honor band, orchestra, and choir, as well as studio art exhibits and classes for student artists.

Held at the Minnehaha Academy Williams Fine Arts Center, student participants came from the Blake School, Breck School, Concordia Academy, St. Agnes School, Saint Bernard's School, St. Croix Lutheran High School, St. Anthony Village High School, DeLaSalle High School, Convent of the Visitation School, Mounds Park Academy, and Minnehaha Academy. The band performed works by Franco Cesarini, Malcolm Arnold, David Gordon and Ron Hardimon.

Heukeshoven to direct ‘Israeli Rhapsody’

Dr. Janet Heukeshoven will conduct Judith Lang Zaimont’s “Israeli Rhapsody” Feb. 15-16 as part of the Minnesota Music Educators Association 2008 Midwinter In-Service Clinic, to be held at the Minneapolis Convention Center. For more about this clinic, visit www.mmea.org/winterclinic.htm.

“Israeli Rhapsody” was given its world premiere performance by the Saint Mary’s University Concert Band, under the direction of Heukeshoven, in March 2007. The SMU Concert Band commissioned the work through the Helen and Sam Kaplan Foundation Commissioning Project.
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On Feb. 8-9 “Israeli Rhapsody” will be performed as part of the Symposium for New Band Music, sponsored by the Virginia chapter of the College Band Directors National Association and hosted by the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Va.

Lang Zaimont wrote that in her piece she is “paying tribute to the complicated, thoughtful and joyous aspects that come together and do indeed characterize the people who flourish in that dramatic land.”

‘Fireside’ will be Feb. 22-23

‘Fireside,’ a coffee-house style talent show sponsored by the Sisters of Sigma Alpha Iota, will be held Feb. 22-23. For more information, contact: Nicole at nlschr04@smumn.edu or Brookly at baheff04 @smumn.edu. Tickets will be available the week of Feb. 18-22 at lunch and dinner.

Poet to read from his book, ‘Nervous Systems’ Feb. 19

William Stobb will read from his 2006 National Poetry Series book, “Nervous Systems,” at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 19, in the President’s Room of the Toner Student Center. The event, sponsored by Sigma Tau Delta, the National Honor Society, is free and open to the public; refreshments will be provided.

Stobb’s work has been described as “Jittery, synaptic, wide-ranging ... filled with audacious turns, swerves, juke-steps and leaps, while still somehow managing to get the poems where they were meant to go.”

SMU to host regional science fair Feb. 29

Saint Mary’s will host the Regional Science Fair Feb. 29. Approximately 250 area students in grades seven through 12 will display their work in biology, physics and chemistry, behavior science, computer science, math and social sciences.

Daffodil orders due Feb. 15

This year’s daffodil orders are due during break (Feb. 15), so if you’re going to be off campus, get your order in to Sylvia Pflughoeft before you leave !

The American Cancer Society’s 2008 celebration of Daffodil Days takes place the week of March 10-14. Support the American Cancer Society by purchasing these spring flowers.

The cost is still $8 for a bunch of 10 daffodils. New this year are: potted mini “dainty” daffodils, the “Bear and a Bunch,” and “Vase and a Bunch.”
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Convenient online ordering with credit card is available.

Visit the American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days website and click on Sylvia’s name and then on “reserve daffodils.”

Or contact Pflughoeft, spflugho@smumn.edu, Campus Box 17, Ext. 1455. Payment is required with your order. Make checks payable to the American Cancer Society, and please don’t send cash through campus mail.

Daffodils will be delivered to your Winona Campus office the week of March 10- 14.

Last ‘Campus Notes’ before break

Because of February break, there will be no ‘Campus Notes’ next week. The next edition will be Friday, Feb. 22. The deadline for submissions will be Wednesday, Feb. 20.

Congratulations to Swansons

Shawn and Stacey Swanson, assistant to the vice president for Development and Alumni Relations, had a baby boy, Samuel Marshall, on Monday, Feb. 4.

The Saint Mary’s community extends its congratulations to the Swanson family.

Outstanding senior nominees are announced

The following students were named as finalists for the 2008 Outstanding Senior Awards:

Female: Lindsay Dickson, Laura Holupchinski, Amy Kalina, Kasey Schultz and Ana Sontag.

Male: Kevin Black, Jeff David, Alex Downes-Borowski, John Freeman and Rick McCoy.

Congratulations to these outstanding students. Final ballots will be sent to faculty and staff the first week of February. Seniors will have an opportunity to vote at Senior Salute on Feb. 21. The award for outstanding female and male senior will be presented at Founder'’ Day on Feb. 26.

Students are groovin’ during rehearsals for Candlelight

Saint Mary’s University Student’s, Alex Gorgone, left, and Moreen Bosch, right, rehearse for the “Candlelight Outta Sight!” performance Feb. 9. SMU students will perform a variety of ’60s and ’70s favorites during the formal dinner.
Students have been getting back into the groove while rehearsing for “Candlelight, Outta Sight!” at Saint Mary’s University, which will provide a flashback to the era of peace and love on Feb. 9.

A select group SMU theatre and music students will perform a variety of well-known favorites from the ’60s and early ’70s including “Build me up Buttercup,” “All You Need is Love,” “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” as well as many, many more throughout the evening. After a five-course dinner, the seven-piece Diane Martinson Band will entice those in attendance to hit the dance floor.
Read more...

Candlelight is a communitywide event, hosted biennially by the university. Formerly a fund-raiser, the event is now simply a fun evening, a formal celebration of the university and a thank you to the community for its support.
The evening will begin with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails at 6 p.m. in the lounge, followed by dinner in the dining hall, both in the Toner Student Center. The cost is $75 per person or $140 per couple. Dress is formal attire, and valet parking and coat check services will be available.

Invitations have been mailed, but everyone is invited! If you would like to attend or have questions about Candlelight, call Jo Nesler, Ext. 1664.

Opera singer to perform Feb. 6 at SMU

Earl Mentor Phillip, an opera singer with an extensive repertoire, will perform 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6, in Figliulo Recital Hall. The performance is free.

Born in Belmont, Port of Spain in the island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, Phillip has performed in musical plays and theaters and with symphony orchestras.
Read more...

His classical voice training includes an extensive repertoire of German, French, Italian and English material, including Gospel and Negro spirituals. As a concert vocalist and baritone, Phillip has performed throughout the United States and Caribbean.

He has performed in “The Marriage of Figaro,” “The Barber of Seville,” “Porgy and Bess” and “the Magic Flute.”

He has performed with the New Philharmonic of New Jersey, Montclair Chamber Orchestra and Morristown Chamber Players.

He has conducted several master classes and workshops at universities across the U.S. and for children as well. He is known as a lively clinician with a quick sense of humor and self-deprecating manner with vivid insight. He will perform at Cotter and Winona Senior High School as well during his visit to Winona Wednesday and Thursday.

Substance-free support group to begin in February

A number of alcohol-related incidents have occurred among the college student population in our region over the course of this academic year. Unfortunately, alcohol and drug abuse continue to impact our students’ lives despite continued efforts to reduce the harm that accompanies such abuse. Saint Mary’s has a new alcohol, drug, and tobacco policy that was introduced in August, 2007. This has helped to clarify the institution’s position on these issues and made enforcement of policies more effective. Training of university staff has helped increase levels of consistency regarding policy implementation and students have begun to realize that we are taking dangerous and belligerent abuse of substances more seriously.
Read more...

Initiatives started this year include the use of a BreathScan. This can be used by underage students who have been documented in the presence of alcohol to prove that they did not drink, thereby avoiding any judicial consequences.

Our continued focus at Saint Mary’s is to reduce risks associated with alcohol and drug consumption primarily through education and support for students struggling with these issues. With this goal in mind, a new partnership has formed between Winona State University and Saint Mary’s counseling services to offer a supportive peer group aimed at students who want to stop using alcohol and drugs.

Please refer students interested in getting support for these issues to Dr. Michael O’Friel, AOD education coordinator and Counselor at Ext. 1773 (office), Ext. 6692 (direct), or e-mail: mofriel@smumn.edu

‘SMU 10K’ citizens classic ski draws 60 participants

Saint Mary’s University senior Jon Pace held off Christopher Sasse at the finish line to win the third annual SMU 10K classic ski event, held Sunday on the SMU campus. Pace, who clocked a winning time of 31:59, and Sasse, who finished one second behind Pace, were two of nearly 60 competitors taking part in the event.

Joanna Pace, Jon’s sister and a freshman at Saint Mary’s, won the women’s open division with a time of 41:18, while Brother Jon Grover (54:21) and senior Lindsay Dickson (79:45) captured the men’s and women’s recreational division titles. To view pictures, go to www.saintmaryssports.com/sports/gallery/smu10k12708.

Chicago Convention planned for Feb. 29-March 1

Mark your calendars for Feb. 29 and March 1, as Saint Mary’s faculty, staff, students and Christian Brothers will once again hit the road to reconnect with alumni and friends, meet prospective students and share our SMU with Chicago. Information packets have been sent; if you plan to attend, please think about your material needs and make your reservations.

The Chicago Convention will be held at the Westin Chicago Northwest in Itasca, Ill. For more details, go to www.smumn.edu/convention.

Page Series presents ‘Hansel and Gretel’ Feb. 7

A musical performance of “Hansel and Gretel” will come to life through giant puppets, special effects, and beautiful costumes, Thursday, Feb. 7, at Saint Mary’s. The Page Series will host the performance, produced by Theatre Sans Fil, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre.

The familiar children’s tale will be accompanied by an orchestral soundtrack, created by Engelbert Humperdinck, that is based on the Grimms’ fairly tale.
Read more...

In “Hansel and Gretel,” the brother and sister are sent into the woods in search of strawberries, but are abandoned by their evil stepmother. Lost in the woods, they find a house made of candies and – unable to resist – they begin to eat it. The inhabitant of the house, an old woman, is actually a witch who has built the house to capture children, so that she may fatten and eat them. The children must rely on the only thing they have to save their lives – their wit.

Theatre Sans Fil, founded in Quebec in 1971, has performed across four continents in more than 25 countries, and has earned international recognition for its works with adults and children.

All tickets are $6, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 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 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.

Dance Repertory Company auditions are Feb. 2

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will conduct auditions, Saturday, Feb. 2, for the Dance Repertory Company’s annual spring concert. Auditions will begin at noon at the Valéncia Arts Center.

Dancers with a variety of training are needed. Roles are available for male and female dancers, ages 12 – 25. The company is seeking intermediate and advanced dancers with contemporary ballet, modern, jazz, tap, and hip hop experience as well as musicians, ages 12 and older, who are proficient in percussion.
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Percussionists should be prepared to show 16 – 32 measures of improvisational rhythms or sheet music and must bring their own hand drum, drumsticks and drum pad or other playable surface, and/or other auxiliary equipment.

Interested candidates are asked to bring a photo of themselves. Dancers should also bring proper shoes and attire.

The DRC will be presenting their annual spring concert, May 15 – 17 at Page Theatre.

The Dance Repertory Company is the performing troupe of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts of Saint Mary’s. Company members participate in rehearsals, technique classes and stage performances. Past productions of the company include: “The Firebird,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Nutcracker,” “Paquita,” “Excerpts from Swan Lake,” “Cinderella,” “The Goodman Suite,” “Youth In Motion,” “Tappin’ to Connick,” and “Pure Entertainment.”

For more information about the Dance Repertory Company or the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, visit www.smumn.edu/mca or call Ext. 5501.

Saint Mary’s announces baseball/softball skills camps Feb. 3-March 2

Saint Mary’s will host 2008 baseball/softball pre-season skills camps for boys and girls in grades seven through 12 on Sundays between Feb. 3 and March 2.

Boys baseball players meet from 1 to 2:30 p.m.; boys baseball and girls fastpitch softball pitchers and catchers meet from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.; and girls fastpitch softball participants meet from 3:30 to 5 p.m. – all in SMU’s Gostomski Fieldhouse.
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Participants will practice pitching, hitting, catching, throwing and fielding, depending on which clinic you sign up for. Catchers will need to bring equipment; all others are asked to bring a glove, and no cleats are allowed.

The hitting, throwing, and fielding camp costs $60 per person; the pitching and catching clinic costs $40; and the cost for both clinics combined is $90. The registration fee includes a T-shirt and individual instruction by SMU staff and players including Nick Whaley, head men’s baseball coach, and Jennifer Miller, head women’s fastball coach.

Though the registration deadline has passed, faculty and staff can still register their families. Register online at www.smumn.edu/sportscamps. For more information, call Ext. 6973.

Plans for summer camps are now under way. Check the website for updated information on hockey, volleyball and basketball summer camps. Additionally, SwimAmerica swimming lessons are going to be scheduled for spring.

SMU Chamber Singers to perform in Madison, Victoria

The Saint Mary’s Chamber Singers will perform a series of concerts in Madison, Wis., and Victoria, Minn., as part of their 2008 Concert Tour. The 22-voice select ensemble is directed by Dr. Patrick O’Shea, associate professor of music and Music Department chairman.
Read more...
Tour performances will include concerts at:

• St. James Catholic Church (Madison, Wis.) – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 13
• St. Victoria Catholic Church (Victoria, Minn.) – 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 15.

The Chamber Singers will also serve as the guest choir for Masses at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis at 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, and at the Cathedral of St. Paul at 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17.

All performances are free and open to the public. Repertoire will include a cappella works by Palestrina, Lauridsen, Stenhammar, and Ginastera, as well as English madrigals and spirituals.

For more information, call O’Shea at Ext. 1598.

Annual Twin Cities admission reception a success

On Sunday, Jan. 27, the Admission Office hosted a reception at the Minneapolis Airport Marriott Hotel in Bloomington. The event drew almost 90 students and their parents. This successful event could not have happened without the generous support of many faculty, staff, current students and alumni who shared their Sunday to assist in bringing a taste of Saint Mary’s to prospective students.
Read more...Thanks go to following individuals for their efforts:

Winona campus faculty, staff and coaches: Carolyn Ayers, Dan Bucknam, Jim Callinan, Gary Diomandes, Lupita Garza-Cienfuegos, Karen Hemker, Nigel Jenkins, Sarah Kay, Chad Kjorlien, Katie LaPlant, Preston Lawing, Melissa Luedtke, Tom Marpe, Shawn McMahon, Jeanne Minnerath, John Paulson, Ken Pellegrini, Tony Piscitiello, Megan Radke, Joy Rockwell, Jenny Shanahan, Kenneth Stenstrup, Karen Sullivan, Jen Trewick, Mike Trewick, Chandu Valluri, Tammy VonDrasek, Ron Weimer, Nick Winecke and Jayne Wobig.

Twin Cities campus staff: Becky Copper and Faith Seim.

Current undergraduate students: Kevin Black, Jillian Connolly, Olga Diaz-Lopez, Grecia Garcia, Ashley Kleist, Megan Mollison, Kim Riley, Andy Weigman and Andrew Winecke.

Undergraduate alumni: Amy Blaz ‘03, Libby Pegg ‘05, Matt Rink ‘05, Matt Smith ‘01, Dave Weigman ‘83 and Amanda Weinmann ‘07.

Parents of current SMU students: Lisa and Dave Weigman.

The positive comments heard from students and their parents after these events remind us that this is a valuable way to connect with future Saint Mary’s students.

Kabara business competition deadline is today

All SMU Winona campus fulltime undergraduates are encouraged to submit business plans for a student-run, on-campus business, hosted by the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies. Proposals may be submitted by individuals or by groups of no more than three students. There is a limit of two proposals per student.
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Each proposal should include:
• a concept statement
• anticipated startup costs
• a preliminary marketing plan
• potential suppliers and/or manufacturing processes (as applicable)
• a discussion of operating considerations (staffing, operating hours, etc.)
• pro-forma financial statements for the first year of operation
• contact information for the individuals submitting the proposal

Entries will be evaluated based on the quality of the proposal and its feasibility, ability to involve students in the operation of the business, and creativity.

Deadline for submissions is today, Feb. 1. Prizes totaling $1,500 will be awarded for meritorious qualifying projects: $900 for first place; $400 for second place; and $200 for third place. Winners will be honored and will make a presentation at the SMU Chicago Convention at the end of February.

Questions and proposals should be directed to
Teresa Speck, Campus Box 56, Ext. 1449 or tspeck@smumn.edu.

‘Crossroads’ conference planned for Feb. 5

The “Crossroads” Sophomore Experience Conference, sponsored by Student Development, Career Services, Internships, and Study Abroad, will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 5, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in Hillside Hall. The conference will inform students about résumé writing, internships, portfolios and more.

SMU Oldie Moldies to perform at Visions Feb. 1

The Oldie Moldie All-Stars from Saint Mary’s will perform a live and lively dinner show today, Friday, Feb. 1, at Visions Event Center. Reservations were due Wednesday.

SMU faculty join forces for ‘Ignes Fatui’ art show

Eight Saint Mary’s University art faculty members have joined forces for the next exhibit, “Ignes Fatui,” in SMU’s Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Displaying works are Preston Lawing, Robert McColl, Charles Campbell, Randi Campbell, Sister Margaret Mear, Brother Roderick Robertson, Michelle Cochran and Dr. John Whelan.

The exhibit will run through Feb. 17. Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Next ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ is chili cookoff

Mark your calendars for the next Let’s Do Lunch. Proceeds continue to benefit SMU faculty and staff who were affected by the August flood.

Thursday’s Super Bowl theme — hosted by academic advising — raised $335.75.

Feb. 21 is the chili cookoff; all faculty and staff are invited to compete for prizes.

Jazz events

John Paulson and Mike James perform 5:30 to 7 p.m. Feb. 1 at the Central Lutheran Church Couples’ Dinner in Winona.

The John Paulson Quartet performs 8 p.m. to midnight Feb. 1 at the Starlite Lounge in La Crosse, Wis.

‘Fireside’ will be Feb. 22-23

‘Fireside,’ a coffee-house style talent show sponsored by the Sisters of Sigma Alpha Iota, will be held Feb. 22-23. Students are invited to audition Feb. 1-3. For more information, contact: Nicole at nlschr04@smumn.edu or Brookly at baheff04 @smumn.edu. Tickets will be available the week of Feb. 18-22 at lunch and dinner

Today is First Friday

Today’s First Friday, hosted by Campus Ministry, will be held from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the faculty and staff lounge of Saint Mary’s Hall. Take a break from the office and join us for a continental breakfast and a chance to catch up with co-workers.

February is Campus Energy Challenge Month

February is Saint Mary’s Campus Energy Challenge Month. This is a month-long energy conservation competition organized by students around the country. Our Energy Challenge is modeled after Campus Energy Wars, a statewide competition in February among 16 Minnesota colleges and universities. 2007 was Saint Mary’s first year participating in this process. Through our partnership in Sustain Winona as well as our Student Senate’s commitment that our university should be, “an ethical leader in the movement for environmental sustainability” we are joining a national trend to make energy efficiency a part of our daily lives. By mobilizing students, faculty, staff and community members we can realize the full potential of this climate movement.
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For the challenge, instead of comparing different schools to each other, each school is compared to its own past. This will give us a measure of the achieved climate awareness and energy action our own campus. Last year here at Saint Mary’s we reduced our electrical consumption by 7 percent in just one month. Last year we focused mainly on the impact that daily student life had on our energy consumption but this year Saint Mary’s faculty and staff are invited to join the competition.

Kelsey named director for M.A. in Philanthropy and Development

Effective March 1, Gary Kelsey, Ed.D., will take over as director for the Master of Arts in Philanthropy and Development program.

Dr. Kelsey is a current faculty member and former program director for the Philanthropy and Development program, as well as the former program director for the M.A. in Health and Human Services Administration at Saint Mary’s.
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Dr. Kelsey holds a B.A. in Social Work from St. Cloud State University and an M.A. in Human and Health Service Administration from Saint Mary’s. In 2001, he completed a Doctorate of Education in Leadership degree from Saint Mary’s University.

Currently, he is the interim dean for the School of Public Policy and Administration at Walden University and the principal consultant of Gary Kelsey and Associates, through which he has provided non-profit board development, program development, strategic planning, fundraising, collaboration, team-building, qualitative research, board retreat and other organizational development assistance and training to over 250 non-profit, philanthropic, education and government organizations.

Until March 1, Jim Bedtke, vice president for the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs, will continue to serve as the interim program director. For more information, contact Mary Williams Bambenek, Graduate Programs coordinator on the Winona campus, at Ext. 8738, or e-mail mbambene@smumn.edu.

‘SMU 10K’ citizens classic ski is Jan. 27 at Saint Mary’s

Saint Mary’s is inviting the public to the annual “SMU 10K” classic ski event on Sunday, Jan. 27.
The classic-style citizens ski event will wind through the bluffs and valleys of SMU’s trails.

The event is open to all individuals, with a mass start slated for 1 p.m. Pre-registration is encouraged. On-site registration will begin at 11 a.m. at the Toner Student Center. The race is free to SMU students, faculty, staff, alumni and family members. The cost for the general public is $15 in advance or $20 the day of the event. Each skier receives a souvenir race bib and a completion medal. Medals will be awarded to the top finishers — male and female — in two categories: open class and recreational class.

Weather permitting, a hot air balloon launch will mark the start of the race.

For more information or to receive a registration form, call Peggy Walters at Ext. 1640. Or visit the “SMU 10K” website at: http://saintmaryssports.com.

Plans set for Candlelight 2008 dinner on Feb. 9

Have you got a taste for a little nostalgia? “Candlelight, Outta Sight!” at Saint Mary’s will provide a flashback to the era of flower power on Feb. 9.

Candlelight is a communitywide event, hosted biennially by the university. Formerly a fund-raiser, the event is now simply a fun evening, a formal celebration of the university and a thank you to the community for its support.
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Attendees of “Candlelight, Outta Sight!” will savor the flavor of a five-course meal including:
• Belgian Endive and Spring Mix Salad with Fresh Raspberries and Roquefort Cheese with Raspberry Vinaigrette
• “Fruits of the Sea in a Crepe” — Crepe filled with Baby Shrimp, Baby Bay Scallops, and Fresh Lump Crab Meat and Ricotta Cheese and Fresh Parsley topped with Lobster Sauce
• Lemon Sorbet with Crème de Cassis
• Tornado of Beef Fillets with a Port Wine Reduction
• White Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce
• Wild Rice with Fresh Dates, Cranberries and Yellow Raisins
• Vanilla Ice Cream with Candied Chestnuts

The evening will begin with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails at 6 p.m. in the lounge, followed by dinner in the dining hall. A highlight of the evening will include cabaret entertainment by SMU theatre and music students who will perform a variety of well-known favorites from the ’60s and early ’70s. The seven-piece Diane Martinson Band will then delight participants ready to hit the dance floor.

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

Invitations have been mailed, but everyone is invited! If you would like to attend or have questions about Candlelight, call Jo Nesler, Ext. 1664.

Chicago Convention planned for Feb. 29-March 1

Mark your calendars for Feb. 29 and March 1, as Saint Mary’s faculty, staff, students and Christian Brothers will once again hit the road to reconnect with alumni and friends, meet prospective students and share our SMU with Chicago.

The next Chicago Convention will be held at the Westin Chicago Northwest in Itasca, Ill. For more details, go to www.smumn.edu/convention.

Page Series presents ‘Hansel and Gretel’ Feb. 7

A musical performance of “Hansel and Gretel” will come to life through giant puppets, special effects, and beautiful costumes, Thursday, Feb. 7, at Saint Mary’s. The Page Series will host the performance, produced by Theatre Sans Fil, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre.

The familiar children’s tale will be accompanied by an orchestral soundtrack, created by Engelbert Humperdinck, that is based on the Grimms’ fairly tale.
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In “Hansel and Gretel,” the brother and sister are sent into the woods in search of strawberries, but are abandoned by their evil stepmother. Lost in the woods, they find a house made of candies and – unable to resist – they begin to eat it. The inhabitant of the house, an old woman, is actually a witch who has built the house to capture children, so that she may fatten and eat them. The children must rely on the only thing they have to save their lives – their wit.

Theatre Sans Fil, founded in Quebec in 1971, has performed across four continents in more than 25 countries, and has earned international recognition for its works with adults and children.

All tickets are $6, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 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 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.

Saint Mary’s announces baseball/softball skills camps Feb. 3-March 2

Saint Mary’s will host 2008 baseball/softball pre-season skills camps for boys and girls in grades seven through 12 on Sundays between Feb. 3 and March 2.

Boys baseball players meet from 1 to 2:30 p.m.; boys baseball and girls fastpitch softball pitchers and catchers meet from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.; and girls fastpitch softball participants meet from 3:30 to 5 p.m. – all in SMU’s Gostomski Fieldhouse.
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Participants will practice pitching, hitting, catching, throwing and fielding, depending on which clinic you sign up for. Catchers will need to bring equipment; all others are asked to bring a glove, and no cleats are allowed.

The hitting, throwing, and fielding camp costs $60 per person; the pitching and catching clinic costs $40; and the cost for both clinics combined is $90. The registration fee includes a T-shirt and individual instruction by SMU staff and players including Nick Whaley, head men’s baseball coach, and Jennifer Miller, head women’s fastball coach.

The registration deadline is Wednesday, Jan. 30. Register online at www.smumn.edu/sportscamps. For more information, call Ext. 6973.

SMU Chamber Singers to perform in Madison, Victoria

The Saint Mary’s Chamber Singers will perform a series of concerts in Madison, Wis., and Victoria, Minn., as part of their 2008 Concert Tour. The 22-voice select ensemble is directed by Dr. Patrick O’Shea, associate professor of music and Music Department chairman.

Tour performances will include concerts at:
• St. James Catholic Church (Madison, Wis.) – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 13
• St. Victoria Catholic Church (Victoria, Minn.) – 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 15.

The Chamber Singers will also serve as the guest choir for Masses at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis at 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, and at the Cathedral of St. Paul at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17.
All performances are free and open to the public. Repertoire will include a cappella works by Palestrina, Lauridsen, Stenhammar, and Ginastera, as well as English madrigals and spirituals.

For more information, call O’Shea at Ext. 1598.

Kabara business competition deadline is Feb. 1

All SMU Winona campus fulltime undergraduates are encouraged to submit business plans for a student-run, on-campus business, hosted by the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies. Proposals may be submitted by individuals or by groups of no more than three students. There is a limit of two proposals per student.

Each proposal should include:
• a concept statement
• anticipated startup costs
• a preliminary marketing plan
• potential suppliers and/or manufacturing processes (as applicable)
• a discussion of operating considerations (staffing, operating hours, etc.)
• pro-forma financial statements for the first year of operation
• contact information for the individuals submitting the proposal

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Entries will be evaluated based on the quality of the proposal and its feasibility, ability to involve students in the operation of the business, and creativity.

Deadline for submissions is Feb. 1. Prizes totaling $1,500 will be awarded for meritorious qualifying projects: $900 for first place; $400 for second place; and $200 for third place. Winners will be honored and will make a presentation at the SMU Chicago Convention at the end of February.

Questions and proposals should be directed to
Teresa Speck, Campus Box 56, Ext. 1449 or tspeck@smumn.edu.

Student conferences planned for Jan. 27, Feb. 5

“Real World 101: Surviving Life After Saint Mary’s,” a senior conference sponsored by Student Development, Alumni Relations, and Career Services & Internships, will be held on Sunday, Jan. 27, from 1 to 5 p.m. The conference will concentrate on topics like résumé and interviewing tips, graduate school, and finding an entry-level job.

The “Crossroads” Sophomore Experience Conference, sponsored by Student Development, Career Services, Internships, and Study Abroad, will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 5, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in Hillside Hall. The conference will inform students about résumé writing, internships, portfolios and more.

SMU Oldie Moldies to perform at Visions Feb. 1

The Oldie Moldie All-Stars from Saint Mary’s will perform a live and lively dinner show Friday, Feb. 1, at Visions Event Center.

Rock along to your favorite ’50s, ’60s and ’70s tunes, while you enjoy a menu of garden salad, grilled 6-ounce sirloin, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, green beans and carrots, béarnaise sauce, rolls and butter, and frosted marble cake.
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The Oldies are all members of the national music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia at SMU. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. The Oldies will perform two sets, one at 6:30 p.m., and a second at 7:45 p.m.

The price for the dinner and show is $25 per person; reservations can be made by calling Signatures at (507) 454-3767. Payment is by either credit card with the reservation or by only cash or check at the door. The reservation deadline is Jan. 30.

Visions Event Center is located at Signatures Restaurant, 22852 County Road 17 in Pleasant Valley.

SMU faculty join forces for ‘Ignes Fatui’ art show

Eight Saint Mary’s University art faculty members will join forces for the next exhibit, “Ignes Fatui,” in SMU’s Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Displaying works are Preston Lawing, Robert McColl, Charles Campbell, Randi Campbell, Sister Margaret Mear, Brother Roderick Robertson, Michelle Cochran and Dr. John Whelan.

The exhibit will run through Feb. 17. Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

SMU students can attend Frozen River Film Festival for no charge

The Frozen River Film Festival, which takes place from through Jan. 27, features films, speakers, and events oriented toward environmental issues, sustainable communities, diverse cultures, adventure travel and extreme sports. The events will take place primarily at the Winona State campus.

Saint Mary’s students are allowed to attend speaker and film events for free with their Saint Mary’s ID. For more information, go to www.frff.org.

Battle of the Bands is Jan. 26

The next student Battle of the Bands will be held Jan. 26 in Page Theatre. Admission is free. Awards ranging from $100 to $500 will be given.

Next ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ dates

Mark your calendars for the next Let’s Do Lunch events. Proceeds continue to benefit SMU faculty and staff who were affected by the August flood.

• Jan. 31 — Super Bowl theme — hosted by academic advising and the administrative/support departments reporting to Academic Affairs.
• Feb. 21 — Chili cookoff; all faculty and staff are invited to compete for prizes

Internal search for education librarian announced

An internal search for an educational librarian is being conducted on the Winona campus. This person will: be responsible for the Library’s bibliographic instruction program; prepare instructional modules and assess their impact on student learning; work in collaboration with faculty to prepare content-based instruction programs; design web-based tutorials and assess their effectiveness; act as lead education librarian, working with a team of librarians to present bibliographic instruction sessions; promote library instruction on campus; advance information literacy and research skills throughout the university curriculum; share reference duties with the other librarians, including some evening and weekend hours; and work as a liaison to assigned academic departments.

A master’s degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited university is required.

For the complete job posting, go to www.smumn.edu/jobs.

Jazz events

On Saturday, Jan. 26., John Paulson will be a judge and clinician at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Winterfest Jazz Festival.

The John Paulson Trio will perform 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26, at Michael’s Restaurant in Rochester.

John Paulson and Mike James perform 5:30 to 7 p.m. Feb. 1 at the Central Lutheran Church Couples’ Dinner in Winona.

The John Paulson Quartet performs 8 p.m. to midnight Feb. 1 at the Starlite Lounge in La Crosse, Wis.

‘Fireside’ planned for Feb. 22-23

‘Fireside,’ a coffee-house style talent show sponsored by the Sisters of Sigma Alpha Iota, will be held Feb. 22-23. Students are invited to audition Feb. 1-3. Signups will be Jan. 28-31 at lunch and dinner. For more information, contact: Nicole at nlschr04@smumn.edu or Brookly at baheff04 @smumn.edu. Tickets will be available the week of Feb. 18-22 at lunch and dinner.

Employee changes announced

Departures:
• Deborah Ward, January, program director, Philanthropy & Development
• Sara Kliber, January, Twin Cities education administration assistant
• Rebecca Sallee, January, assistant director, Campus Ministry
• Lane Urtel, January, GSS GIS specialist
• Debbie Watson, January, Rochester Center administrative assistant
• Karen McCormick, January, Natural Science Department administrative assistant
• Richard Brown, December, Campus Safety, Saint Teresa campus
• Russ Sobotta, December, maintenance, Saint Teresa campus
• Kristin De Vito, December, hall director
• Anjuli Graunke, December, administrative assistant registrar/windows
• Renee Rerko, December, Twin Cities admissions coordinator


New:
• June Fox, January, administrative assistant registrar/windows
• Jacquelynn Austin, January, Twin Cities administrative assistant registrar/student services
• Diane Dockery, January, Twin Cities grants coordinator
• Matthew Nowakowski, January, Twin Cities director, MBA
• Alana Neil, January, Twin Cities marketing and communications coordinator
• Barbara Featherly, January, GSS-GIS analyst
• Patrick Grace, January, Performance Center director
• Travis Bare, January, assistant residence hall director
• Adolfo Cardona, December, Twin Cities MBA advisor/faculty
• Maricar Johnson, December, Twin Cities administrative assistant, Human Services
• Joseph Sweeny, December, vice president, for development and alumni relations
• Mark Spencer, December, maintenance groundsperson