Multicultural Week schedule announced

A variety of events are scheduled in recognition of Multicultural Week Feb. 9-13. For more information, check with Student Activities.

Monday, Feb. 9

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Peace and Justice Club and CRS Ambassadors Fair Trade Chocolate Sale, Toner Student Center

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — International Center presents: Around the World in 10 Tables, Saint Mary’s Hall

6 p.m. — Residence Life presents: Boxes and Walls, Saint Mary’s Hall

7:30 p.m. — Yoga with the Yoga Club!, R.A.C. Dance Studio

Tuesday, Feb. 10

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Peace and Justice Club and CRS Ambassadors Fair Trade Chocolate Sale, Toner Student Center

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. — Chartwells Presents Meatless Day in the Caf!

5 p.m. — Chartwells presents: Cooking 101 – Stir Fry! Toner Student Center kitchen

6 p.m. — Study Abroad Office presents: A Study Abroad Spotlight, Toner Student Center, Room 9

7 p.m. — Ballroom Dance Club presents: Salsa dance lessons, R.A.C. Dance Studio

Wednesday, Feb. 11

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Peace and Justice Club and CRS Ambassadors Fair Trade Chocolate Sale, Toner Student Center

3:30 p.m. — Solidarity Talks: Power in Diversity, Vlazny Lounge

9 p.m. — BSA and SAC present:  “Their Eyes Were Watching God,” Salvi Lecture Hall

Thursday, Feb. 12

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Peace and Justice Club and CRS Ambassadors Fair Trade Chocolate Sale, Toner Student Center

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. — Chartwells presents Cuisine of India Day in the Caf, Toner Student Center Dining Room

5 p.m. — Office of Campus Ministry presents: Dine with the Divine: Under-Told Stories, Toner Student Center Lounge

Friday, Feb. 13

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Peace and Justice Club and CRS Ambassadors Fair Trade Chocolate Sale, Toner Student Center

8 to 11 a.m. — Fair Trade Friday with the Peace and Justice Club, Saint Mary’s Hall

3:30 p.m. — Solidarity Talks: Multicultural Week Debrief, Vlazny Lounge

Friday, Feb. 20

The International Center presents: “Lunar New Year Celebration,” time and location TBA

UnderTold Stories journalists to work with students

Journalist Fred de Sam Lazaro and producer Nikki See from the Under-Told Stories Project will spend Feb. 11-12 on the Winona Campus. They’ll be educating students in the Department of Communication on various journalism, storytelling, and public relations topics. De Sam Lazaro and See will speak in the classrooms of Dean Beckman and Dr. Steve Schild, in addition to hosting an evening seminar with students from Dr. Lori Charron’s public speaking classes and Kate Carlson’s digital communications strategies class.

Campus Ministry invites the Winona Campus to hear de Sam Lazaro and See from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday as part of its Dine with the Divine series, taking place in the President’s Room in the Toner Center. The focus will be on changing human rights in India over the past 20 years. To RSVP, contact Campus Ministry.

De Sam Lazaro is a senior distinguished fellow at the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership, director of the Under-Told Stories Project sponsored by Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, and a correspondent for PBS NewsHour. See is an award-winning producer, developing stories and programs for PBS for nearly 15 years from around the world on a wide variety of subjects.

Discussion Feb. 10 about ‘Great Gatsby: Novel to Film’

Join members of the Department of English for a panel discussion on the Baz Luhrmann adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, “The Great Gatsby,” 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10.

The event, sponsored by the Department of English and Sigma Tau Delta, the international English honor society, will be held in Salvi Lecture Hall. Everyone is welcome, and refreshments will be provided. For more in formation, contact Dr. Carolyn Ayers at cayers@smumn.edu.

Cardinal Plunge Feb. 7 to raise money for alumna

Several celebrity plungers are braving the cold for a good cause this Saturday including: the Cardinal softball team; Chris Kendall, vice president of student life; John Duerst, residence life director; and Christian Brothers Robertolino, Christhian, Peter, and Miguel.

Brave souls and warm hearts are invited to join Saint Mary’s for the sixth annual “Cardinal Plunge” noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Lake Lodge Recreation Center, in coordination with the Winter Carnival Goose Bump Jump.

This year, Cardinal Plunge participants will again be freezin’ for a reason. Proceeds will be given to Juliana Piscitiello, a 2006 Saint Mary’s alumna who was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, a genetic, auto-immune disease and a chronic progressive form of arthritis which is destroying her spine. Piscitiello, former part-time faculty member at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, has enjoyed ballet since the age of 3 and has assisted with dance choreography on campus. Funds will be used to assist with the expense of her ongoing therapy, much of which is needed to reduce the severity of her painful symptoms. She could also benefit from adaptive equipment.

She is the daughter of Kathy (Ordahl) CST’70 Piscitiello and Tony Piscitiello ’69, senior advancement director at Saint Mary’s.

The cost to plunge is $20 ($15 for the Saint Mary’s community). Registration runs from 11:30 a.m. to noon, and a silent auction will be held inside the lodge between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Saint Mary’s Future Alumni Committee. Donations can be dropped off with Alex Bilski in the Development Office (60 Heffron Hall) or mailed to campus mailbox #21 with attention to “Cardinal Plunge.”

Pre-register online at www.mysmumn.org/plunge2015. For more information, contact Alex Bilski at 457-6675 or Conner Ellinghuysen at 429-7960.

Hot employee chili cookoff raises $250

A huge thank you to everyone who came to the Feb. 5 chili cookoff.

Thanks to Development and Alumni Relations for supplying side dishes and toppings and to the Volunteer Committee for bringing desserts. Barnes & Noble and Chartwells also graciously donated prizes.

Special thanks to the gourmet chili-makers: Laurie Haase, Terri Lieder, Roger Peckover,  Matt Lunde, Andrea Pengra, Sarah Nicklay, Michael Ratajczyk, Mariann Miller, Tracy Lehnertz, Scott Sorvaag and Jason Spartz.

Thanks also to this year’s judges, Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, Andrea Gates, and Dr. Jimmy Bickerstaff.

The winning chilis were: first place, Roger Peckover; second place, Scott Sorvaag; and third place, Sarah Nicklay.

A total of $250.50 was raised and will benefit Christ the Teacher Institute for Education in Nairobi.

Chamber Orchestra to perform Feb. 15

The Saint Mary’s Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. David Leung, will perform “Heart Wounds. Last Spring” 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15, in Figliulo Recital Hall.

The concert will feature a returning guest-artist, professor Maureen Yuen from State University of New York at Fredonia. She and Dr. Leung performed at Central Lutheran Church last year, and Saint Mary’s is excited to welcome her back to Winona to perform more works by Bach. She will be the featured soloist in Bach’s immortal “E Major Concerto for Solo Violin and Orchestra.”

In light of Valentine’s Day weekend, the Chamber Orchestra will offer two elegiac melodies by Romantic Norwegian composer Edvarg Grieg; Corelli's soulful concerto grosso for two solo violins, solo cello and orchestra; and the heart-breaking “Silouans Song” by mystical Estonian Arvo Part.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the box office, Ext. 1715 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

MCA offers drawing workshops for youth

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts Visual Arts Division invites students in grades 4-7 to participate in drawing workshops from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 9, March 9, and April 13.

Drawing is a great skill for students to learn observation, memory, and dexterity. Young artists will explore still-life imaginative works, portraiture, and Japanese brush painting during these once-a-month workshops with local artist Julie Johnston.

New students are welcome, and those who have participated previously will be challenged with new themes and works. The price for all three workshops is $35 and includes all supplies.

For more information, go to www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, email mca@smumn.edu, or call 507-453-5500.

H3O jazz trio fundraiser for Misato student ambassadors

The father and sons jazz trio known as “H3O” will be featured at “Jammin’ at the Well” on Sunday, Feb. 8, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Wellington’s Pub & Grill (1429 Service Drive). Eric Heukeshoven of the Music Department (piano) is joined by his two sons, Hans ’14 on drums, and Max ’19 on bass.

The H3O Trio began this successful fundraiser for the Winona Area Public Schools Misato Ambassadors program in 2013 when Max Heukeshoven traveled with the group to Winona’s sister city in Japan.

Joining the trio this year is Minnesota Music Hall of Famer Les Fields with his pocket cornet. There is no cover charge for the event and rumor has it that several other well-known jazz musicians might stop by to sit in with the trio. There is no cover charge and donations will be gratefully appreciated.

For more information please contact A. Eric Heukeshoven at Ext. 7292 or eheukesh@smumn.edu.

MCA to host free workshop with TU Dance Company

TU Dance company members will teach a modern-based dance class prior to their 7:30 p.m. performance Tuesday, Feb. 24, at Saint Mary’s University’s Page Theatre.

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is hosting a workshop with the professional dancers from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Valéncia Arts Center, 1164 W. 10th St.

Founded in 2004 by Toni Pierce-Sands and Uri Sands in Saint Paul, TU Dance is a leading voice for contemporary dance. The 12-member, professional company is acclaimed for its diverse and versatile artists, performing work that draws together modern dance, classical ballet, African-based and urban vernacular movements.

Intermediate and advanced dancers are invited to register and participate free of charge. The workshop will start with a warmup and then build into more complex dance phrases, allowing the dancer’s body to experience the movements as it uses the space. Students may even have the opportunity to learn choreography from the repertory that will be performed that night.

To register or for more information, e-mail mca@smumn.edu, or call 453-5500. Space is limited to 20 dancers. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts offers programming in dance music, visual art, and theatre year-round. Classes, lessons, workshops, and camps are offered for children age 3 and older through adults at the Valéncia Arts Center.

Winona Area Homeschoolers display art at MCA gallery

Galleria Valéncia at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is filled with 28 unique pieces of artwork created by members of Winona Area Homeschoolers. Visitors to the gallery, located at 1164 W. 10th St., will be exposed to work in a variety of mediums including watercolor, photography, pencil, and mixed media.

This exhibit is free and open to the public during the month of February during regular office hours and while classes are in session. Visitors are encouraged to sign the guestbook so that the young artists know who attended the show.

The 22 young artists displaying work are: William Casselman, Hannah Casselman, James Bickerstaff, Azrielle Lemire, Shiloh Lemire, Charlie Lingen, Juniper Lingen, Isaac Meinke, Justine Meinke, Preston Meinke, Jocelyn Olcott, Markarah Olcott, Uvone Olcott, Bethany Peratt, Mario Peratt, Rebekah Peratt, Laura Schleich, Natalie Schleich, Seamus Schwaba, Lani Schul, Aviya Swagger, and Sam Swagger.

Next month Galleria Valéncia will feature artists from Winona Area Catholic Schools.

Band members named to Intercollegiate Honor Band

Five Saint Mary’s students will be representing Saint Mary’s in next week’s performance at the Minnesota Music Educator’s Association conference in Minneapolis Feb. 12-14.

Students include: Lexi Loesel (trumpet), Rachel Prince (clarinet), Kelsey Engesser (clarinet), Katie Stein (flute), and Sarah Fanning (euphonium).

They will be joining collegiate musicians from across the state in rehearsal on Thursday and Friday, and perform at 9 a.m. Saturday in the Minneapolis Convention Center. Admission is free; contact Dr. Janet Heukeshoven for additional details.

Janet Heukeshoven serves as clinician at annual festival

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, Dr. Janet Heukeshoven guest-conducted and rehearsed four regional high school bands at the Hiawatha Band Festival. The ensembles included bands from Byron, Hayfield, Stewartville and Rochester Lourdes high schools. This event assists ensembles as they prepare for the MSHSL large group contest next month.

Alumna featured on ‘Jeopardy’

A Saint Mary’s alumna Mary (Schmolke) Bayer ’01 (theatre), M'04 (MAI) was a participant on “Jeopardy” this week.

Bayer, who currently teaches theatre in Elgin Academy in Illinois, competed on the fourth day of the “teachers tournament” on Thursday afternoon’s show: www.jeopardy.com/minisites/teacherstournament/.

For the story, go to www.smumn.edu/newsblog/6761/alumnas-jeopardy-dream-realized.

Faculty, staff art now on display

“Saint Mary’s Creates,” an exhibition of creative works by the university faculty and staff, is now on display in the Lillian Davis Hogan Gallery. The exhibit is free and open to the public daily.

All members of the Winona Campus staff, faculty, and administration were invited to submit their creative endeavors for this exhibition.

The creative works include painting, drawing, photography, writing, quilts and fiber arts, sculpture and mixed media, and more.

Students attend Power in Diversity conference

Saint Mary’s students and staff attended the sixth annual Power in Diversity Leadership Conference at St. Cloud State University Jan. 29-31.

The conference theme was “Remembering the Sixties, While Charting the Future.” The event helps develop personal growth and leadership for students of color and underrepresented students through workshops, keynote speakers, and programs.

Discussions focused on identifying ways that participants can become leaders for positive change. Students had the opportunity to engage in workshops, listen to keynote speakers, and discuss a vast number of topics related to diversity, inclusion, and social justice.

Saint Mary’s senior, Manire Vaughn, also gave a presentation titled, “The Power of YOU” at the conference.

Participants were Manire Vaughn, Bridget Coffou, Stephanie Cruz, Taylor Lehmann, Graciela Hernandez, Sarah Adams, Christina Weldai, Briana Torres, Cinthya Cazares, Nicholle Ramsey, Abbie Fangman, and Demetrius Young.

Cardinal Plunge Feb. 7 to raise money for alumna

Brave souls and warm hearts are invited to join Saint Mary’s University for the sixth annual “Cardinal Plunge” noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Lake Lodge Recreation Center, in coordination with the Winter Carnival Goose Bump Jump. Several celebrity plungers including Chris Kendall, vice president of student life; John Duerst, residence life director; and Christian Brothers Robertolino, Christhian, Peter, and Miguel are braving the cold for a good cause.

This year, Cardinal Plunge participants will again be freezin’ for a reason. Proceeds will be given to Juliana Piscitiello, a 2006 Saint Mary’s alumna who was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, a genetic, auto-immune disease and a chronic progressive form of arthritis which is destroying her spine. Piscitiello, former part-time faculty member at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, has enjoyed ballet since the age of 3 and has assisted with dance choreography on campus. Funds will be used to assist with the expense of her ongoing therapy, much of which is needed to reduce the severity of her painful symptoms. She could also benefit from adaptive equipment.

She is the daughter of Kathy (Ordahl) CST’70 Piscitiello and Tony Piscitiello ’69, senior advancement director at Saint Mary’s.

The cost to plunge is $20 ($15 for the Saint Mary’s community). Registration runs from 11:30 a.m. to noon, and a silent auction will be held inside the lodge between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Saint Mary’s Future Alumni Committee. Donations can be dropped off with Alex Bilski in the Development Office (60 Heffron Hall) or mailed to campus mailbox #21 with attention to “Cardinal Plunge.”

Pre-register online at www.mysmumn.org/plunge2015. For more information, contact Alex Bilski at 457-6675 or Conner Ellinghuysen at 429-7960.

Page Series to host puppet pirates Feb. 5

The Page Series will present the world’s only puppet, rock, yoga opera for families in search of calm during the Z Puppets Rosenschnoz production of “Monkey Mind Pirates” Feb. 5.

The epic tale, which begins at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre, details how a sea captain discovers the secrets to navigating the stormy seas of stress. When Captain Fitz sets out for the Legendary Waters of Calm, the unruly Monkey Mind Pirates hijack his ship with anxiety, depression and distraction. The chaos turns his ship upside down and drives the captain overboard where he meets the Wise Sea Monkey. Find out how the captain learns to turn his “Arrghs” into “Oms,” regain peace, and tame the Monkey Mind Pirates.

Based in Minneapolis, Z Puppets Rosenschnoz tours their family-friendly comedies across the country. Z Puppets artists Shari Aronson and Chris Griffith have earned many awards, including support from the Jim Henson Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Puppeteers of America and the Minnesota State Arts Board. The Monkey Mind Pirates CD is winner of an award of excellence from Creative Child magazine and featured as a top pick by Creative Play Retailer.

Tickets are $14 for adults, $6 for seniors and students and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the box office, Ext. 1715, Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

La Crosse Chamber Chorale concerts feature music faculty

The La Crosse Chamber Chorale will feature the talents of three Saint Mary’s music faculty in their upcoming “Prayers and Visions” concerts on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 31 and Feb. 1. Concerts are 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31 and 3 p.m. Feb. 1. Set in the beautiful Mary of the Angels Chapel in the St. Rose Convent (901 Franciscan Way, La Crosse), the concert will include compositions by Dr. Patrick O’Shea and A. Eric Heukeshoven as well as performances by violinist Dr. David Leung.

O’Shea’s “Nocte fletuum angelis” (Night of the Weeping of Angels) was composed in memory of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012. The work was jointly premiered by The Singers and the Saint Mary’s Chamber Singers in February 2014.

Heukeshoven’s “Preghiera Semplice” (Simple Prayer) was commissioned for the Saint Mary’s Chamber Singers’ 2012 tour to Italy. The work is based on “The Prayer of Saint Francis” (“O Lord, make me an instrument of your peace …”) and received its premiere in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Dr. David Leung will be the featured guest artist in performances of Jacob Avshalomov’s setting of the Rune of Hospitality, “I Saw a Stranger Yestere’en” and in “Pietà” by Reed Criddle, inspired by Michelangelo’s famous sculpture.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students and seniors. Complete information can be found at chamberchorale.org.

Hot employee chili cookoff competition is Feb. 5

At least three or four more chili makers are needed to be able to conduct our annual faculty/staff chili cookoff.

Test your award-winning chili in the annual faculty/staff chili cookoff on Thursday, Feb. 5. Prizes will be awarded to the top three chillis.

Please let Deb Nahrgang (Ext. 6966 or dnahrgan@smumn.edu) know by the end of the day today (Friday) if you plan to enter the contest, so we can be sure we have enough to go around.

Then, just bring your “unmarked” crockpot to the Common Room by 11 to 11:15 a.m. Everyone is invited to eat chili between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Proceeds will go to CTIE in Nairobi.

Schild to read from poetry collection Feb. 3

Dr. Steve Schild, Communication Department, will read from his recent poetry collection “Eros in Autumn” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, at the Book Shelf, 162 W. 2nd St., Winona.

Schild’s poetry has appeared in a number of literary venues including Elysian Fields Quarterly, ArtWord Quarterly and Whiskey Island Magazine as well as the anthologies 33 Minnesota Poets, Witness, and Growing Season.

An open mic will follow Schild’s reading, which is part of the Laureate Reading Series.

MCA offers drawing workshops for youth

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts Visual Arts Division invites students in grades 4-7 to participate in drawing workshops from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 9, March 9, and April 13.

Drawing is a great skill for students to learn observation, memory, and dexterity. Young artists will explore still-life imaginative works, portraiture, and Japanese brush painting during these once-a-month workshops with local artist Julie Johnston.

New students are welcome, and those who have participated previously will be challenged with new themes and works. The price for all three workshops is $35 and includes all supplies.

For more information, go to www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, email mca@smumn.edu, or call 507-453-5500.

MCA announces auditions for Summer Dance Intensive

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts Summer Dance Intensive offers comprehensive dance training for intermediate and advanced dancers ages 11 to 22.  Auditions are required for acceptance. Boarding and non-boarding camp options are available.

Summer Dance Intensive students participate in approximately eight hours of technique and theory classes each day, as well as a final showcase performance. The auditions will include a full ballet class. Students with pointe experience should bring pointe shoes to the audition class. Following the ballet class, students may choose to show a prepared jazz, modern, tap, or character dance center combination of at least 64 counts or 16 bars. Showing a prepared piece is optional.

Audition information:

• La Crosse Dance Centre, 2716 Commerce St., La Crosse, Wis.; 608-783-5155; Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m. to noon

• Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, 1164 W. 10th St., Winona; 507-453-5501, 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m. to noon

• Cowels Center/ James Sewell Ballet, Studio 2B, 528 Hennepin Ave., Suite 215, Minneapolis, Sunday, April 26, 1 to 3 p.m.

Talent-based scholarships are awarded on a case-by-case basis. For students who are unable to attend one of the audition classes, video auditions will be accepted through April 20.

For a brochure, registration form, and more information, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu, “like” them on Facebook, or call 507-453-5500.

H3O jazz trio fundraiser for Misato student ambassadors

The father and sons jazz trio known as “H3O” will be featured at “Jammin’ at the Well” on Sunday, Feb. 8, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Wellington’s Pub & Grill (1429 Service Drive). Eric Heukeshoven of the Music Department (piano) is joined by his two sons, Hans ’14 on drums, and Max ’19 on bass.

The H3O Trio began this successful fundraiser for the Winona Area Public Schools Misato Ambassadors program in 2013 when Max Heukeshoven traveled with the group to Winona’s sister city in Japan.

Joining the trio this year is Minnesota Music Hall of Famer Les Fields with his pocket cornet. There is no cover charge for the event and rumor has it that several other well-known jazz musicians might stop by to sit in with the trio. There is no cover charge and donations will be gratefully appreciated.

For more information please contact A. Eric Heukeshoven at Ext. 7292 or eheukesh@smumn.edu.

News from Nairobi

By James Chege
Head librarian
Maryknoll Institute for African Studies

MIASMU January Semester Begins

The second semester of the 2014/15 academic year at the Maryknoll Institute of African Studies began with a day of orientation on Jan. 23. The orientation brought together a host of new and returning students as well as field assistants. The total number of students hit an all time high for semester programs with a total of 36 students and 53 class registrations spread over six courses.

Students and field assistants listen keenly to the opening address by Father Michael Kirwen.

Proceedings began with a preliminary address by program founder and director, Prof. Michael Kirwen who welcomed the students and gave a brief introduction on the MIASMU programs by highlighting their focus on a systematic study of African cultures while at the same time fostering understanding of one’s own culture of origin. The assistant director Denis Odinga outlined what is expected from the students and field assistants during the semester, followed by the program editor, Father Joseph Oindo, a recent MIASMU M.A. graduate, who spoke at length about the unique MIAS method of learning.

Students and field assistants have a chat and a coffee break during orientation.

The students and field assistants mingled and socialized over coffee and mandazi (a form of fried bread that originates from the Swahili Coast). Soon after it was back to business as the first research workshops were conducted in an interactive manner. The foundational class tackled among other things interview techniques that the students would be using in their field work, and the advanced class looked at some critical areas in writing M.A. thesis proposals as they ready themselves for thesis research and writing in the near future.

Veteran field assistants, from left: Francis Kumunya, Emma Massau and Victor O'Kubasu converse over coffee.

The semester has six courses: Spirituality, Personhood and Psychotherapy in an African Context taught by Drs. Hubert Pinto; African Spirituality taught by Prof. Laurenti Magesa; African Cultures: An Overview taught by Prof. Edward Oyugi; African Marriage and Family: Challenge and Change taught by Prof. Mary Getui, Justice; Peace in East Africa taught by Dr. Emmanuel Manyasa; and Moral Teaching and Practices of African Traditional Religion taught by Dr. Michael Katola.

Vondrasek completes doctoral work

Congratulations to Dr. Tammy Vondrasek, assistant director of financial aid and adjunct professor in the Business Department, upon completion of her doctoral work. Her dissertation is titled: “A Phenomenological Study of Maternal Influence on the Leadership Development of Women Presidents at Institutions of Higher Learning.” She received her Doctor of Education in Leadership degree on Jan. 18 in the commencement ceremony on the Twin Cities campus.

Biology news

Clinton Nienhaus '13 (Environmental Biology major) was awarded the 2014 Young Birder Award by the Minnesota Ornithologists' Union (MOU). The award is presented to someone younger than 25 who has made a significant contribution to birding in Minnesota. Incidentally, another award given by the MOU, the Brother Theodore Voelker Award  for special achievement in field ornithology, is named after a former member of the Saint Mary’s faculty.

Additionally, Dr. Phil Cochran (Biology Department) has just started a term on the board of directors of the National Trout Center in Preston, Minn. One of his priorities will be to increase opportunities for student intern involvement in the activities of the center.

Sympathy to Bassi family

Tara Bassi ’13 died Tuesday, Jan. 27, at the age of 24 after a valiant battle with cancer. Tara graduated from Saint Mary's University with a degree in public relations.

The visitation for Tara will be Friday from 1 to 9 p.m. at Peterson-Bassi Chapels, 6938 W. North Ave., Chicago. The full obituary for Tara can be found at the following link:
http://www.petersonfuneralhome.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=2935740&fh_id=12952.

The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to the Bassi family.

Saint Mary's faculty, staff art now on display

"Saint Mary's Creates," an exhibition of creative works by the university faculty and staff, is now on display in the  Lillian Davis Hogan Gallery. The exhibit is free and open to the public daily.

All members of the Winona campus staff, faculty, and administration were invited to submit their creative endeavors for this exhibition.

The creative works include painting, drawing, photography, writing, quilts and fiber arts, sculpture and mixed media and more.

Faculty development luncheon on metacognition, e-folios

The Faculty Development Committee invites the faculty and academic staff to another minigrant-sharing luncheon, Monday, Jan 26, at 12:15 p.m. in the Faculty Dining Room.  Lunch is provided (tell the Chartwells employee in the front that you are with the FDC lunch), and you may get your lunch starting at noon.  The talks and discussion will likely go until 1:10 p.m., but the rule is to come when you can, and leave when you must.

This luncheon features the work completed by two summer 2014 minigrant groups:

• Dr. Roger Peckover (facilitator), et al. “Metacognition: The Value of Thinking About Thinking” — During the summer of 2014,  Dr. Joshua Lallaman, Dr. Nathan Lien, and Dr. Joseph Dulak, (participants), and Dr. Peckover (consultant) engaged in thoughtful discussion on student learning through metacognition, or more specifically, thinking about thinking.  Through discussion on teaching styles and scholarly perspectives of metacognition they are developing practical strategies to facilitate a deeper level of learning across a variety of student experiences. The implementation of these strategies will allow multiple opportunities for scaffolding the development of cognitive skills and assessing the utility of these thinking skills.  These methods for deeper student learning may be applied by teachers within the classroom setting as well as the Student Success Center.

• Lisa Truax (lead), et al. “Utilizing E-Folios to Advance Student Learning and Development” — Many departments and faculty members are using different types of e-folios for different purposes. Truax will share her own and other’s research from the summer mini-grant on e-folio use including how-to’s on a variety of e-folio and website options.

Trudeau’s social justice internship featured by HECUA

Saint Mary’s senior Emily Trudeau participated in HECUA’s Inequality in America program in the Twin Cities this past fall. She completed coursework focused on issues of inequality and social justice while completing an internship with the Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative, a Minnesota past organization focused on ending homelessness through housing, shelters, and public advocacy. To read more about her internship, go to www.hecua.org/node/359.

Page Series presents Argentinean music Jan. 28

The Page Series will present a concert of Argentinean tango music featuring bandoneon star Héctor Del Curto Wednesday, Jan. 28.

The New York Times has praised Del Curto as “a splendid player” with “wistful, piercing solos on the bandoneon.” Del Curto has captivated audiences around the world as a soloist and chamber musician, sharing the stage with world-renowned tango legends, as well as with symphony orchestras and ballet companies worldwide.

The Argentinean tango has been in the Del Curto family since the early 1900s. Hector Del Curto’s great grandfather was a bandoneonist and composer, and his grandfather, also a great bandoneon player, introduced Héctor to the world of tango and the bandoneon. By the age of 17, Hector Del Curto had won the title “Best Bandoneon Player Under 25” in Argentina, and was invited to join the orchestra of the legendary Osvaldo Pugliese, the “Last Giant of Tango.”

Music will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Page Theatre. Tickets are $27 for adults, $24 for students and seniors and are available at the box office, Ext. 1715 Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

A Page in History about the Hector Del Curto Tango Quintet will be noon Wednesday, Jan. 28, in the Wanek Room of the Winona County Historical Society, 160 Johnson St.

Saint Mary’s 10K event Jan. 25 cancelled

This year’s Saint Mary’s 10K Nordic ski races which had been planned for Sunday, Jan. 25, at Saint Mary’s, have been cancelled because of lack of snow. Watch for news of another attempt later in the season when conditions may be more favorable.

‘X Factor’ finalist Tim Olstad to perform today, Jan. 23

Tim Olstad, a top 10 finalist from the third season of FOX’s “The X Factor” returns to his hometown of Winona Jan. 23 for an evening of soulful originals and cover songs that showcase the versatility of one of America’s best loved up and coming male vocalists.

The event, part of the Off the Page Series, will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Page Theatre. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students and are available at www.pagetheatre.org or at the box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.

Cardinal Plunge Feb. 7 to raise money for alumna

Brave souls and warm hearts are invited to join Saint Mary’s University for the sixth annual “Cardinal Plunge” noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Lake Lodge Recreation Center, in coordination with the Winter Carnival Goose Bump Jump.

This year, Cardinal Plunge participants will again be freezin’ for a reason. Proceeds will be given to Juliana Piscitiello, a 2006 Saint Mary’s alumna who was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, a genetic, auto-immune disease and a chronic progressive form of arthritis which is destroying her spine. Piscitiello, former part-time faculty member at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, has enjoyed ballet since the age of 3 and has assisted with dance choreography on campus. Funds will be used to assist with the expense of her ongoing therapy, much of which is needed to reduce the severity of her painful symptoms. She could also benefit from adaptive equipment.

She is the daughter of Kathy (Ordahl) CST’70 Piscitiello and Tony Piscitiello ’69, senior advancement director at Saint Mary’s.

The cost to plunge is $20 ($15 for the Saint Mary’s community). Registration runs from 11:30 a.m. to noon, and a silent auction will be held inside the lodge between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Saint Mary’s Future Alumni Committee.

Pre-register online at www.mysmumn.org/plunge2015. For more information, contact Alex Bilski at 507-457-6675 or Conner Ellinghuysen at 507-429-7960.

Page Series to host puppet pirates Feb. 5

The Page Series will present the world’s only puppet, rock, yoga opera for families in search of calm during the Z Puppets Rosenschnoz production of “Monkey Mind Pirates” Feb. 5.

The epic tale, which begins at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre, details how a sea captain discovers the secrets to navigating the stormy seas of stress. When Captain Fitz sets out for the Legendary Waters of Calm, the unruly Monkey Mind Pirates hijack his ship with anxiety, depression and distraction. The chaos turns his ship upside down and drives the captain overboard where he meets the Wise Sea Monkey. Find out how the captain learns to turn his “Arrghs” into “Oms,” regain peace, and tame the Monkey Mind Pirates.

Based in Minneapolis, Z Puppets Rosenschnoz tours their family-friendly comedies across the country. Z Puppets artists Shari Aronson and Chris Griffith have earned many awards, including support from the Jim Henson Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Puppeteers of America and the Minnesota State Arts Board. The Monkey Mind Pirates CD is winner of an award of excellence from Creative Child magazine and featured as a top pick by Creative Play Retailer.

Tickets are $14 for adults, $6 for seniors and students and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the box office, Ext. 1715, Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

La Crosse Chamber Chorale concerts feature music faculty

The La Crosse Chamber Chorale will feature the talents of three Saint Mary’s music faculty in their upcoming “Prayers and Visions” concerts on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 31 and Feb. 1. Concerts are 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31 and 3 p.m. Feb. 1. Set in the beautiful Mary of the Angels Chapel in the St. Rose Convent (901 Franciscan Way, La Crosse), the concert will include compositions by Dr. Patrick O’Shea and A. Eric Heukeshoven as well as performances by violinist Dr. David Leung.

O’Shea’s “Nocte fletuum angelis” (Night of the Weeping of Angels) was composed in memory of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012. The work was jointly premiered by The Singers and the Saint Mary’s Chamber Singers in February 2014.

Heukeshoven’s “Preghiera Semplice” (Simple Prayer) was commissioned for the Saint Mary’s Chamber Singers’ 2012 tour to Italy. The work is based on “The Prayer of Saint Francis” (“O Lord, make me an instrument of your peace …”) and received its premiere in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Dr. David Leung will be the featured guest artist in performances of Jacob Avshalomov’s setting of the Rune of Hospitality, “I Saw a Stranger Yestere’en” and in “Pietà” by Reed Criddle, inspired by Michelangelo’s famous sculpture.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students and seniors. Complete information can be found at chamberchorale.org.

Hot employee chili cookoff competition is Feb. 5

The competition’s getting hot! No beans about it, the Volunteer Committee believes this is a great fundraiser!

Test your award-winning chili in the annual faculty/staff chili cookoff on Thursday, Feb. 5. Prizes will be awarded to the top three chillis.

Please let Deb Nahrgang (Ext. 6966 or dnahrgan@smumn.edu) know if you plan to enter the contest, so we can be sure we have enough to go around.

Then, just bring your “unmarked” crockpot to the Common Room by 11 to 11:15 a.m. Everyone is invited to eat chili between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Proceeds will go to CTIE in Nairobi.

Schild to read from poetry collection Feb. 3

Dr. Steve Schild, Communication Department, will read from his recent poetry collection “Eros in Autumn” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, at the Book Shelf, 162 W. 2nd St., Winona.

Schild’s poetry has appeared in a number of literary venues including Elysian Fields Quarterly, ArtWord Quarterly and Whiskey Island Magazine as well as the anthologies 33 Minnesota Poets, Witness, and Growing Season.

An open mic will follow Schild’s reading, which is part of the Laureate Reading Series.

In the news

Check out the Minnesota Private College Council’s latest newsletter which features an article about Saint Mary’s First Generation Initiative: www.mnprivatecolleges.org/newsletter/january-2015-newsletter/first-generation-students-thrive-support.

Congratulations to Lunde family

Matthew (Development and Alumni Relations) and Layla Lunde (adjunct Music Department) had a daughter, Anna Madeline Lunde, on Dec. 29, 2014. The Saint Mary’s community extends its congratulations to the Lunde family.

Saint Mary’s online graduate programs recognized nationally

Saint Mary’s offers students exceptional online graduate programs. The 2015 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Program rankings, released recently, include Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota as a top school in its “Best Online Programs: Business        (Graduate)” category (www.usnews.com/education/online-education/mba/business-rankings).

“As we strive to make education accessible to adult learners, we have increased our online educational offerings,” said Brother Robert Smith, vice president for the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs. “Our goal is to provide a quality, personalized experience that meets the needs of today’s learners, and being recognized by U.S. News is proof that we are successful in our efforts.”

Saint Mary’s achieved a spot (74th) in U.S. News’ national rankings in the online graduate business programs category with favorable scores in student engagement, admission selectivity, peer reputation, faculty credentials and training, student services, and technology.

Online graduate business programs offered at Saint Mary’s include the M.A. in Human Resource Management, the M.A. in Organizational Leadership, the M.S. in Project Management, and the new M.S. in Accountancy and M.A. in International Development programs.

Saint Mary’s also offers exceptional online graduate programs in education and health and human services. They include the M.A. in Health and Human Services Administration, the M.A. in Educational Leadership, the M.A. in Special Education, and the M.Ed. in Learning Design and Technology.

Campus Ministry hosts events celebrating Martin Luther King

The Offices of Student Life, Student Activities, and Campus Ministry are hosting a variety of events planned for Saturday through Tuesday, Jan. 17-20, in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Jan. 17

Day of Service: “Living Faith and Seeking Justice.” In commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Saint Mary’s student Volunteer Mentors will participatie in a service day in collaboration with the Catholic Worker communities of Winona and Lake City.

Jan. 18

Sunday Eucharist: “Here I Am, Lord: Martin Luther King and Prophetic Christian Witness,” 10:30 a.m. and 9 p.m., Saint Thomas More Chapel. Using the scriptures offered by the Church for this day—the call of Samuel and the call of the first disciples—the community will reflect on the life of the man who became America’s most well-known Christian prophet and martyr because of his work as the mouthpiece of a movement rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Jan. 19

Audio Recording: “The Drum Major Instinct,” noon, Toner Student Center dining room. Given on Feb. 4, 1968, “The Drum Major Instinct” was one of the last sermons ever given by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. before his tragic death on April 4. He warned and encouraged a congregation about the real work of social justice and Christian living: service. An audio recording of a slightly abridged version of the sermon will be played in the dining room during lunch.
Film: “Fruitvale Station,” 9 p.m., Salvi Lecture Hall. This is a critically acclaimed and award-winning 2013 film based on the true story of a fateful encounter between a young black man and a public transit police officer on the BART in San Francisco in the early hours of New Years Day, 2009.

Jan. 20

Panel: “#BlackLivesMatter: The Unfinished Business of the Civil Rights Movement,” 7 p.m., Toner Student Center lounge. Tragic events across the country have ignited a news-making series of protests and demonstrations concerning relations between law enforcement officers and the African American community, especially young black men. Saint Mary's University’s annual celebration of the unparalleled legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. provides the perfect moment for students, faculty, staff and community members to discuss the meaning and trajectory of “#BlackLivesMatter” and its relationship to work of the civil rights movement.

Prayer: “Walk With Me: Night Prayer of Lamentation and Hope,” 8:45 p.m., President’s Room, Toner Student Center. Structured within the ancient Christian tradition of Compline (night prayer), the Saint Mary’s community will gather blending psalms, scripture, gospel music and the words of Dr. King to express both sorrow for the unfinished work of racial equality in America and hope that Christ continues to light the way toward a more just society.

Page Series presents Argentinean music Jan. 28

The Page Series will present a concert of Argentinean tango music featuring bandoneon star Héctor Del Curto Wednesday, Jan. 28.

The New York Times has praised Del Curto as “a splendid player” with “wistful, piercing solos on the bandoneon.” Del Curto has captivated audiences around the world as a soloist and chamber musician, sharing the stage with world-renowned tango legends, as well as with symphony orchestras and ballet companies worldwide.

The Argentinean tango has been in the Del Curto family since the early 1900s. Hector Del Curto’s great grandfather was a bandoneonist and composer, and his grandfather, also a great bandoneon player, introduced Héctor to the world of tango and the bandoneon. By the age of 17, Hector Del Curto had won the title “Best Bandoneon Player Under 25” in Argentina, and was invited to join the orchestra of the legendary Osvaldo Pugliese, the “Last Giant of Tango.”

Music will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Page Theatre. Tickets are $27 for adults, $24 for students and seniors and are available at the box office, Ext. 1715 Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Saint Mary’s 10K event Jan. 25 cancelled

This year’s Saint Mary’s 10K Nordic ski races which had been planned for Sunday, Jan. 25, at Saint Mary’s, have been cancelled because of lack of snow. Watch for news of another attempt later in the season when conditions may be more favorable.

‘X Factor’ finalist Tim Olstad to perform Jan. 23

Tim Olstad, a top 10 finalist from the third season of FOX’s “The X Factor” returns to his hometown of Winona Jan. 23 for an evening of soulful originals and cover songs that showcase the versatility of one of America’s best loved up and coming male vocalists.

The event, part of the Off the Page Series, will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Page Theatre. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students and are available at www.pagetheatre.org or at the box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.

Cardinal Plunge Feb. 7 to raise money for alumna

Brave souls and warm hearts are invited to join Saint Mary’s University for the sixth annual “Cardinal Plunge” noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Lake Lodge Recreation Center, in coordination with the Winter Carnival Goose Bump Jump.

This year, Cardinal Plunge participants will again be freezin’ for a reason. Proceeds will be given to Juliana Piscitiello, a 2006 Saint Mary’s alumna who was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, a genetic, auto-immune disease and a chronic progressive form of arthritis which is destroying her spine. Piscitiello, former part-time faculty member at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, has enjoyed ballet since the age of 3 and has assisted with dance choreography on campus. Funds will be used to assist with the expense of her ongoing therapy, much of which is needed to reduce the severity of her painful symptoms. She could also benefit from adaptive equipment.

She is the daughter of Kathy (Ordahl) CST’70 Piscitiello and Tony Piscitiello ’69, senior advancement director at Saint Mary’s.

The cost to plunge is $20 ($15 for the Saint Mary’s community). Registration runs from 11:30 a.m. to noon, and a silent auction will be held inside the lodge between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Saint Mary’s Future Alumni Committee.

Pre-register online at www.mysmumn.org/plunge2015. For more information, contact Alex Bilski at 507-457-6675 or Conner Ellinghuysen at 507-429-7960.

MCA announces Jan. 17 auditions for dance concert

Auditions for “AbunDANCE: A Woman’s Influence,” the 2015 Dance Repertory Company spring concert, will be held 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at the Valéncia Arts Center, 1164 W. 10th St.

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts’ Dance Repertory Company will present its annual spring dance concert April 16-18 at Page Theatre. Roles for male and female intermediate and advanced dancers in tap, jazz, hip hop, modern, contemporary ballet, and Irish dance are available for youth ages 12 and older through adults.

Dancers should bring a current photo and appropriate audition shoes for their choice of dance style. Students under the age of 21 who are cast are required to be enrolled in at least one dance class at MCA, Saint Mary’s, or Winona State. A $75 performance fee is required.

This spring’s production will focus on women’s contributions to the world of dance and feature a variety of dance forms.

For more information, contact MCA director of dance Tammy Schmidt at tschmidt@smumn.edu or call 507-453-5500.

Hot chili cookoff competition is Feb. 5

The competition’s getting hot! No beans about it, the Volunteer Committee believes this is a great fundraiser!

Test your award-winning chili in the annual faculty/staff chili cookoff on Thursday, Feb. 5. Prizes will be awarded to the top three chillis.

Please let Deb Nahrgang (Ext. 6966 or dnahrgan@smumn.edu) know if you plan to enter the contest, so we can be sure we have enough to go around.

Then, just bring your “unmarked” crockpot to the Common Room by 11 to 11:15 a.m. Everyone is invited to eat chili between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Proceeds will go to CTIE in Nairobi.

Saint Mary's holds first History Day Hullabaloo

About 100 area intermediate and junior high school students used the Fitzgerald Library during the first-ever History Day Hullabaloo Jan. 8.

“National History Day” coordinated the event and Saint Mary’s hosted the Southeast Region project. Saint Mary’s and WSU students served as “mentors” for this event, and faculty and library staff assisted these young students in their research. It was a great opportunity to get students excited about history and for us to share the university’s library facilities.

Branding update

One key component of successful brand implementation is strategic storytelling. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota now has one core brand message and four supporting brand messages. Together we need to tell stories that align with our new key brand messages. Please share your ideas for stories around the following messages on an ongoing basis with Deb Nahrgang in the Marketing and Communication Office, dnahrgan@smumn.edu or Ext. 6966:

1. It's Who Knows You

2. The Saint Mary’s Moment

3. Defining “Forward”

4. Where You Are Matters

5. We Open the World to You

For more information on each of these key brand messages, refer to the Brand Book, one of the many resources available to you as a university employee at smumn.edu/brand. In addition to the Brand Book, this website includes templates for posters and newsletters, PowerPoint presentations, Writing and Visual Identity style guides, downloadable university logos, and more. Please share your branding ideas and questions with Assistant VP for Brand Management Stacia Vogel (svogel@smumn.edu or 612-728-5119).

Opening reception for ‘Saint Mary's Creates’ is Jan. 22

The opening reception for “Saint Mary’s Creates,” the art show featuring works from faculty, staff, and administration, will be 4:30 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries. Come and check out the talents of your colleagues.

Truax receives grant to support summer exhibition

Lisa Truax, Department of Art and Design, will be receiving a 2015 Minnesota State Arts Board Artist Initiative Grant in Visual Arts to support her solo exhibition next summer at the Austin ArtWorks Professional Gallery.

Leung returns from recruiting, performing in Kenya

Dr. Chun Chim (David) Leung, Music Department, has recently returned from Kenya. He visited Tangaza University again, performing at their Christmas carols service and meeting with various faculty members and music students.  He also conducted three Christmas concerts of Vivaldi’s “Gloria” with the Saint Paul chapel choir and orchestra of University of Nairobi. The last concert on Dec. 21 was broadcast on national television to the East African countries for more than 5 million viewers.

Schild to read from poetry collection Feb. 3

Steve Schild, Communication, will read from his recent poetry collection “Eros in Autumn” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, at the Book Shelf, 162 W. 2nd St., Winona.

Schild’s poetry has appeared in a number of literary venues including Elysian Fields Quarterly, ArtWord Quarterly and Whiskey Island Magazine as well as the anthologies 33 Minnesota Poets, Witness, and Growing Season.

An open mic will follow Schild’s reading, which is part of the Laureate Reading Series.

Sympathy to Krage, Drazkowski families

Joyce Krage died Jan. 11; she worked for over 20 years with our community, first at the College of Saint Teresa and then later at Saint Mary’s in the cafeteria and Cotter Cafe.

Visitation is 3 to 6 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 18, at Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Goodview. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 19, with visitation one hour prior, at Hoff Celebration of Life Center. Memories and condolences can be shared with her family at www.hofffuneral.com.

Helen Drazkowski died Jan. 9. She is the mother-in-law of Sue Drazkowski (campus safety) and grandmother of Carrie Jones ’99, C’00, M’05 and Jon Cada (maintenance). Messages of condolence can be sent to Sue Drazkowski and family at campus box 71.