Celebrate Saint Mary’s heritage at Founders’ Day April 1

Saint Mary’s will present awards to two educators, a staff member, a Lasallian educator and two outstanding seniors at its Founders’ Day celebration Tuesday, April 1.

Presidential Awards for Outstanding Merit will be presented to two area educators: Lillie Pang, principal of Hale School in Minneapolis; and Stephen Murray, assistant principal and dean of students at Aquinas High School in La Crosse. Both were chosen because of their exemplary service to public and private education.

Dr. Richard Tristano, professor of history, will receive the Distinguished Lasallian Educator award. These awards are given by Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education.

Donny Nadeau, sports information director, will receive the Bishop Patrick Heffron Award for Service to the University. Nadeau, a 1985 alum of Saint Mary’s, has served as sports information director for more than 19 years. His work has earned recognition at both the conference and national levels. Heffron Award winners are chosen because they have contributed positively to the life of the university, have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the values of the university, and have been models of the Lasallian spirit in their interactions with colleagues and students.

The Outstanding Male and Female Senior awards will be presented to students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership and service. Above all, these men and women have shown genuine concern for meeting the needs of others. The following students are finalists for the 2014 Outstanding Senior awards: Females, Lisa Obasi, Abigail Osborne, Amy Spitzmueller, Marilyn Yennie, Katherine Zuzek; Males, Miles Dunna, Dylan Ethen, Evan Shockley, John Soucheray, Matthew Traxler.

Below is the truncated schedule for the day.

• 7:45 to 9 a.m. classes meet 7:45 to 8:35 a.m.
• 8:10 to 9 a.m. classes meet 8:05 to 8:35 a.m.
• 8:50 to 10:30 a.m. classes meet 8:30 to 9:35 a.m.
• 9:15 to 10:05 a.m. classes meet 8:45 to 9:15 a.m.
• 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. classes meet 8:45 to 9:35 a.m.
• 10:45 to 11:35 a.m. classes meet 9:45 to 10:15 a.m.
• 10:45 a.m. to noon classes meet 9:45 to 10:35 a.m.
• 12:15 to 1:05 p.m. classes meet 3:20 to 3:50 p.m.
• 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. classes meet 3:20 to 4:10 p.m.
• 1:45 to 2:35 p.m. classes meet 4:20 to 4:50 p.m.
• 1:45 to 3 p.m. classes meet 4:20 to 5:10 p.m.
• 1:45 to 3:25 p.m. classes meet 4:20 to 5:25 p.m.

Classes that have starting times after 3 p.m. start at 5:35 p.m. and end at the discretion of the instructor. Labs meet 60 percent of the scheduled lab time.

See photos from Founder’s Day April 9

2013 Outstanding Seniors Constance Budin and Peter Borash

Gena Bilden, Brother Louis DeThomasis award winner; Tony Piscitiello, Distinguished Lasallian Educator; and Teresa Speck, recipient of the Brother H. Charles Severin, FSC Award for Excellence in Teaching

Brother William congratulates, from left: Brother Jean Manuel, Brother Terence McLaughlin and Brother Joseph Loewenstein.

To see photos from our Founder’s Day celebration, go to www.smumn.edu/photos. Congratulations to all of our award recipients.

Celebrate Saint Mary’s heritage at Founder’s Day April 9

Saint Mary’s will present awards to three Christian Brothers, a faculty member, a Lasallian educator and two outstanding seniors at its Founder’s Day celebration Tuesday, April 9.

Brother Joseph Loewenstein will receive an honorary Doctor of Humanities in honor of his inspiring leadership throughout his 70 years as a De La Salle Christian Brother. He served first as a teacher on the East Coast of the U.S., then as a teacher, vice principal and headmaster in Kenya, and most recently he served more than 30 years in Palestine. Brother Joseph has held a number of positions at Bethlehem University, including president and vice chancellor. In addition, he has heroically responded to the needs of those living in Palestinian refugee camps.

Brother Jean Manuel will receive an honorary Doctor of Humanities in recognition of 58 years of service as a De La Salle Christian Brother, through which he has touched the lives of countless students and families as a school administrator and English teacher. After more than 30 years at Bethlehem University, Brother Jean has made a significant and lasting contribution to the Church in the Middle East and to the world of Lasallian Catholic higher education.

Brother Terence McLaughlin, a 1944 Saint Mary’s alum, will receive an honorary Doctor of Humanities in recognition of his 72 years as a De La Salle Christian Brother, as a champion of racial equality, as an outstanding teacher, mentor and school administrator, and as an author. While serving as its president in 1963, Brother Terence broke ranks with the city’s culture code in Memphis and integrated Christian Brothers College high school, making it the first private school to be integrated in the Memphis region. This award to Brother Terence is being made on the occasion of the sesquicentennial of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Teresa Speck, professor of business, will receive this year’s Brother H. Charles Severin, FSC Award for Excellence in Teaching. The award is given every other year to an undergraduate faculty member who is recognized by both students and other faculty as exceptional in their teaching and engagement of students. The Severin Award recognizes excellence in teaching, communication and delivery, fairness in dealing with students, and the ability to encourage students to value the life of the mind. Speck is an organized and enthusiastic teacher who is always present to her students and colleagues. She is able to reach out to students while holding them accountable for content knowledge.  Her students are well-prepared for careers in accounting and for the professional certification exams. In addition to her role with students, she plans and runs the First-Year Faculty mentoring program.

Tony Piscitiello, senior advancement director, was chosen as this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator. These awards are given by Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education. For more than 40 years, Piscitiello has served the mission, as first an admission counselor and later as vice president for admission and executive vice president, and now in his current position in University Advancement. Throughout his career, Piscitiello has demonstrated his Lasallian nature in his continued concern for the welfare of the thousands of students, families and alums he encountered. Piscitiello is a 1969 undergrad alum and earned a master’s degree from Saint Mary’s in 1982.

The Outstanding Male and Female Senior awards will be presented to students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership and service. Above all, these men and women have shown genuine concern for meeting the needs of others. The following students are finalists for the 2013 Outstanding Senior awards — Males: Peter Borash, Aaron Henry, Bryan Moore, Jay Olson, and Jake Traxler; females: Sarah Anderson, Constance Budin, Samantha Herbst, Jacinta Jude and Shannon Nelson.

Additionally, every other year the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs awards the Brother Louis DeThomasis, FSC Award to a staff member or fulltime faculty member who has demonstrated sustained excellence in advancing the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs in teaching, entrepreneurship, creativity and/or innovation, while serving as a model of the Lasallian Catholic spirit. This year’s recipient, Gena Bilden, associate vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Services, has become known as a gifted leader who motivates employees and colleagues to strive for the highest levels of efficiency and excellence throughout her 13-year tenure. Among the many innovations that she has championed are Pathways, a community college recruiting program; SMU Central, a one-stop student services department; and Acalog, the online searchable catalog.

Below is the truncated schedule for the day.

• 7:45 to 9 a.m. classes meet 7:45 to 8:35 a.m.
• 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. classes meet 8:45 to 9:35 a.m.
• 10:45 a.m. to Noon classes meet 9:45 to 10:35 a.m.
• 10:45 a.m. – Eucharistic Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel
• 1:15 p.m. – Convocation, Page Theatre
• 3 p.m. – Reception, Toner Student Center, Hall of Fame
• 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. classes meet 3:20 to 4 p.m.
• 1:45 to 3 p.m. classes meet 4:10 to 4:50 p.m.
• Classes that meet anytime after 3 p.m. start at 5 p.m. and end at the discretion of the instructor

Saint Mary's honors outstanding faculty, students

Regina Quandt and Michael Mockler

Drs. Roger Peckover and Mary Catherine Fox

Saint Mary’s presented awards to a faculty member, a Lasallian educator and two outstanding seniors at its Founder’s Day celebration Tuesday, March 27. Founder’s Day is the annual celebration of the founding of Saint Mary’s in 1912 by Winona Bishop Patrick R. Heffron.

Roger Peckover, Ph.D., professor of education and associate director of the Master of Education in Teaching and Learning, received this year’s Bishop Patrick Heffron Award for Service. This award is presented to an employee who has contributed positively to the life of the university, demonstrated a long-term commitment to the values of the university, and been a model of the Lasallian spirit in interactions with colleagues and students.

Mary Catherine Fox ’75, M’89, Ph.D., professor of interdisciplinary studies, was chosen as this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator. These awards are given by Lasallian institutions in the North America-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education. Dr. Fox’s nomination noted her exceptional service to and involvement in local, regional, national and international Lasallian efforts, and her dedication to excellence in teaching at the undergraduate level. Dr. Fox is highly regarded in the Lasallian community and has written and presented on numerous aspects of the Lasallian heritage and charism.

Additionally, the Outstanding Male and Female Senior awards were presented to students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership and service. Above all, these men and women have shown genuine concern for meeting the needs of others. The Outstanding Male Senior Award went to Michael Mockler, son of John and Caroline Mockler of Dubuque, Iowa. The Outstanding Female Senior Award went to Regina Quandt, daughter of Dan and Cathy Quandt from Minneapolis, Minn.

The following students were finalists for the 2012 Outstanding Senior awards — Males: Brian William Dillon, son of Bill and Lisa Dillon, of Arden Hills, Minn.; Luis Escobar, son of Francia Acevedo and Santiago Escobar Sr., of Madelia, Minn.; Kevin Halpin, son of James and Marie Halpin, of Bartlett, Ill.; and Robert "Robby" McGuire, son of Ann and John McGuire, of Rochester, Minn. Females: Lauren Baier, daughter of Patrick and Ruth Baier, of Mount Horeb, Wis.; Ellen Koneck, daughter of Mark and Nancy Bina, of New Brighton, Minn.; Amy Kujak, daughter of Paul and Barb Kujak, of River Falls, Wis.; and Jill Spitzmueller, daughter of Kathy and Bill Spitzmueller, of New Brighton, Minn.

Founder’s Day is March 27

Saint Mary’s will present awards to a faculty member, a Lasallian educator and two outstanding seniors at its Founder’s Day celebration Tuesday, March 27. Founder’s Day is the annual celebration of the founding of Saint Mary’s in 1912 by Winona Bishop Patrick R. Heffron.

Roger Peckover, Ph.D., professor and associate director of the Master of Education program, will receive this year’s Bishop Patrick Heffron Award for Service. This award is presented to an employee who has contributed positively to the life of the university, demonstrated a long-term commitment to the values of the university, and been a model of the Lasallian spirit through interactions with colleagues and students.

Mary Catherine Fox, ’75, M’89, Ph.D., professor of interdisciplinary studies, has been chosen as this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator. These awards are given by Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education. Dr. Fox’s nomination noted her exceptional service to and involvement in local, regional, national and international Lasallian efforts, and her dedication to excellence in teaching at the undergraduate level. Dr. Fox is highly regarded in the Lasallian family and has written and presented on numerous aspects of the Lasallian heritage and charism.



Additionally, the Outstanding Male and Female Senior Awards will be presented.

The following students are finalists for the 2012 Outstanding Senior Awards — Males: Brian William Dillon, Luis Escobar, Kevin Halpin, Robert "Robby" McGuire, and Michael Mockler. Females: Lauren Baier, Ellen Koneck, Amy Kujak, Jill Spitzmueller, and Regina Quandt.

Below is the truncated schedule for the day.

• 7:45 to 9 a.m. classes meet 7:45 to 8:35 a.m.
• 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. classes meet 8:45 to 9:35 a.m.
• 10:45 a.m. to Noon classes meet 9:45 to 10:35 a.m.
• 10:45 a.m. – Eucharistic Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel
• 1:15 p.m. – Convocation, Page Theatre
• 3 p.m. – Reception, Michael H. Toner Student Center, Hall of Fame
• 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. classes meet 3:20 to 4 p.m.
• 1:45 to 3 p.m. classes meet 4:10 to 4:50 p.m.
• Classes that meet anytime after 3 p.m. start at 5 p.m. and end at the discretion of the instructor

Founder’s Day is March 27

Saint Mary’s will present awards to a dedicated faculty member, a Lasallian educator and two outstanding seniors at its Founder’s Day celebration Tuesday, March 27. Founder’s Day is the annual celebration of the founding of Saint Mary’s in 1912 by Winona Bishop Patrick R. Heffron.

Roger Peckover, Ph.D., professor and associate director of the Master of Education program, will receive this year’s Bishop Patrick Heffron Award for Service. Every other year the Saint Mary’s community is invited to nominate persons whom they believe have contributed positively to the life of the university, demonstrated a long-term commitment to the values of the university, and been models of the Lasallian spirit in their interactions with colleagues and students.

Mary Catherine Fox, ’75, M’89, Ph.D., professor of interdisciplinary studies, was chosen as this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator. These awards are given by Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education.

Additionally, the Outstanding Male and Female Senior Awards will be presented.

The following students are finalists for the 2012 Outstanding Senior Awards — Males: Brian William Dillon, son of Bill and Lisa Dillon of Arden Hills, Minn.; Luis Escobar, son of Francia Acevedo and Santiago Escobar Sr. of Madelia, Minn.; Kevin Halpin, son of James and Marie Halpin of Bartlett, Ill.; Robert "Robby" McGuire, son of Ann and John McGuire of Rochester, Minn.; and Michael Mockler, son of John and Caroline Mockler of Dubuque, Iowa. Females: Lauren Baier, daughter of Patrick and Ruth Baier of Mount Horeb, Wis.; Ellen Koneck, daughter of Mark and Nancy Bina of New Brighton, Minn.; Amy Kujak, daughter of Paul and Barb Kujak of River Falls, Wis.; Jill Spitzmueller, daughter of Kathy and Bill Spitzmueller of New Brighton, Minn.; and Regina Quandt, daughter of Dan and Cathy Quandt from Minneapolis, Minn.

Below is the truncated schedule for the day.

• 7:45 to 9 a.m. classes meet 7:45 to 8:35 a.m.
• 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. classes meet 8:45 to 9:35 a.m.
• 10:45 a.m. to Noon classes meet 9:45 to 10:35 a.m.
• 10:45 a.m. – Eucharistic Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel
• 1:15 p.m. – Convocation, Page Theatre
• 3 p.m. – Reception, Michael H. Toner Student Center, Hall of Fame
• 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. classes meet 3:20 to 4 p.m.
• 1:45 to 3 p.m. classes meet 4:10 to 4:50 p.m.
• Classes that meet anytime after 3 p.m. start at 5 p.m. and end at the discretion of the instructor.

Nominations being accepted for Bishop Heffron Award

The deadline has been extended to nominate someone for the Bishop Heffron Award, to be recognized at this year's Founder's Day ceremony. Review the eligibility and nomination process information below.

Award Eligibility
• Nominees must be full-time or benefits-eligible and have a minimum of 10 years of service with the university.

Award Criteria
• Nominee has demonstrated a long-term commitment to the values of the university

• Nominee has been a positive member of the university community as demonstrated by his/her ability to work successfully across constituencies for the good of the university

• Nominee serves as a model of the Lasallian spirit, which is a hallmark of the university, in his/her interactions with colleagues and students.

• Staff, Faculty and Administration submit a nomination outlining how the nominee (eligible employee) satisfies the award criteria (listed above) for this specific award.

This nomination should be electronically prepared, be no longer than one page (2 pages double spaced), and be submitted to human resources as soon as possible. The nomination should include the employee’s name, job title, campus location, date, and description of how he/she meets the criteria for this award.

Human Resources will verify eligibility, consolidate the awards by cabinet member, and present the eligible nominations to the President’s cabinet prior to Founder’s Day.

The recipient of the award, selected by the President, will be announced on Founder’s Day.

Award

The Bishop Heffron Award is given out every other year at Founder’s Day. The award includes name recognition on the University posted Heffron Award plaque, an award payment of $500.00, and a personal plaque or token gift in its place. Family members of the recipient are invited to the luncheon.

Saint Mary's honors six at Founder's Day April 5

Brother William welcomes Brother Álvaro Rodríguez Echeverría, Superior General of the Institute of the Brothers of Christian Schools.

Brother Michael Collins, FSC, was awarded a Doctorate of Leadership and Service from Brother William and Michael Gostomski, chairman of the SMU Board of Trustees.

Brother Jeffrey Gros, FSC, received a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Brother William and Michael Gostomski, chairman of the SMU Board of Trustees.

Drs. Melissa Luedtke and Roxanne Eubank were presented with the Brother H. Charles Severin, FSC, Award for Excellence in Teaching and the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award.

Hilary Ethen and Sean Ohl, this year's Outstanding Seniors.

Saint Mary’s presented awards to alumni, faculty and students at its Founder’s Day celebration Tuesday, April 5. Additionally, Brother Álvaro Rodríguez Echeverría, Superior General of the Institute of the Brothers of Christian Schools, served as the event’s keynote speaker.

Honorary doctorates were presented to Brother Michael Collins, FSC, Ed.D., president and chief academic administrator of DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis, and to Brother Jeffrey Gros, FSC, Ph.D., professor of church history at Memphis Theological Seminary.

Brother Michael, who is also a current SMU trustee, was awarded a Doctorate of Leadership and Service. He has been recognized locally, regionally and nationally for his contributions to education, and particularly his efforts at promoting diversity within Catholic education. Brother Michael received his undergraduate degree in 1959, and a master’s in 1965, both from Saint Mary’s.

Brother Jeffrey received a Doctorate in Educational Leadership. He is well-known in the ecumenical movement for broadening the understanding and reach of ecumenism. He served for 10 years as director of faith and order for the National Council of Churches and served for 14 years at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Brother Jeffrey received his undergraduate degree in 1959, and a master’s in 1962, both from Saint Mary’s.

Also honored were a dedicated faculty member, a Lasallian educator and two outstanding seniors.

Dr. Melissa Luedtke of the Education Department received this year’s Brother H. Charles Severin, FSC, Award for Excellence in Teaching. The award is given every other year to an undergraduate faculty member who is recognized by both students and other faculty as exceptional in their teaching and engagement of students.

Roxanne Eubank, Ed.D., professor, Doctor of Education in Leadership, and director of the Institute for Lasallian Studies, was chosen as this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator. These awards are given by Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education.

Additionally, the Outstanding Male and Female Senior Awards were presented to students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership and service. The Outstanding Male Senior Award went to Sean Ohl, son of John and Lori Ohl of Bloomington, Minn. The Outstanding Female Senior Award went to Hilary Ethen, daughter of Todd and Lucinda Ethen of White Bear Lake, Minn.

Saint Mary’s will honor six at Founder’s Day

The campus community will celebrate Founder’s Day on Tuesday, April 5. Founder’s Day is the annual celebration of the founding of Saint Mary’s in 1912 by Winona Bishop Patrick R. Heffron. All faculty, staff and students are invited to join in the festivities.

Mass will be held at 10:45 a.m. in Saint Thomas More Chapel, followed by convocation at 1:15 p.m. in Page Theatre. A reception will follow at 3 p.m. in the Toner Student Center Lounge.

Saint Mary’s will present honorary doctorates to Brother Michael Collins, FSC ’59 Ed.D., president and chief academic administrator of DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis, and Brother Jeffrey Gros, FSC ’59 Ph.D., professor of church history at Memphis Theological Seminary.

The Brother H. Charles Severin, FSC, Award for Excellence in Teaching will be given to Melissa Luedtke, Ed.D., of the Education Department. This award is given every other year to a faculty member who is recognized by both students and other faculty as exceptional in their teaching and engagement of students.

Roxanne Eubank, Ed.D., professor, Doctor of Education in Leadership, and director of the Institute for Lasallian Studies, has been chosen as this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator. Distinguished Lasallian Educator Awards are given by Lasallian institutions in the North America-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education.

Additionally, the Outstanding Male and Female Senior Awards will be presented to undergraduate students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership and service.

Founder’s Day April 5 to honor six

The campus community will celebrate Founder’s Day on Tuesday, April 5. Founder’s Day is the annual celebration of the founding of Saint Mary’s in 1912 by Winona Bishop Patrick R. Heffron. All faculty, staff and students are invited to join in the festivities.

Mass will be held at 10:45 a.m. in Saint Thomas More Chapel, followed by convocation at 1:15 p.m. in Page Theatre. A reception will follow at 3 p.m. in the Toner Student Center Lounge.

Saint Mary’s will present honorary doctorates to Brother Michael Collins, FSC, ’59 Ed.D., president and chief academic administrator of DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis, and Brother Jeffrey Gros, FSC, ’59 Ph.D., professor of church history at Memphis Theological Seminary.

The Brother H. Charles Severin, FSC, Award for Excellence in Teaching will be given to Melissa Luedtke, Ed.D., of the Education Department. This award is given every other year to an undergraduate faculty member who is recognized by both students and other faculty as exceptional in their teaching and engagement of students.

Roxanne Eubank, Ed.D., professor, Doctor of Education in Leadership, and director of the Institute for Lasallian Studies, has been chosen as this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator. Distinguished Lasallian Educator Awards are given by Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education.

Additionally, the Outstanding Male and Female Senior Awards will be presented to undergraduate students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership and service.

Five honored at Founder’s Day

In honor of Founder’s Day March 2, Brother William, left, and Michael Gostomski, chairman of the SMU Board of Trustees, presented an honorary doctorate in educational leadership to Dr. Carmelita Quebengco for her work in the achievement of excellence in Lasallian higher education. Dr. Quebengco is currently executive vice president and chief operating officer of De La Salle Philippines, and chancellor emeritus of De La Salle University in Manila, Philippines.

At its Founder’s Day ceremony Tuesday, March 2, Saint Mary’s presented an honorary doctorate to Dr. Carmelita Quebengco, executive vice president and chief operating officer of De La Salle Philippines, and chancellor emeritus of De La Salle University in Manila, Philippines. Dr. Quebengco was presented an honorary doctorate in educational leadership for her work in the achievement of excellence in Lasallian higher education. She addressed the audience about developing effectiveness in a Lasallian university.

Also honored were a dedicated staff member, a Lasallian educator within Saint Mary’s, and two outstanding seniors. Founder’s Day is the annual celebration of the founding of Saint Mary’s in 1912 by Winona Bishop Patrick R. Heffron.

Brother William congratulates Mary Becker who received the Bishop Patrick Heffron Award.

Mary Becker received the university’s Bishop Patrick Heffron Award for Service. Becker has served in the Office of the President since 1993. As the administrative assistant to the president, she provides a daily example of service and commitment to the mission of Saint Mary’s University.

Brother Stephen Rusyn, FSC, Ph. D., receives the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award.

Brother Stephen Rusyn, FSC, Ph.D., was chosen as this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator. Brother Stephen is a long-time professor of English who was chosen because of his attention and dedication to students. Distinguished Lasallian Educator Awards are given by many Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers; they honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education.

Additionally, the Outstanding Male and Female Senior Awards were presented to students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership and service. The Outstanding Male Senior Award went to David Dahlstrom, son of William and Rosanne Dahlstrom of Rochester, Minn. The Outstanding Female Senior Award went to Mariana Sanchez, daughter of Jaime and Bernadette Sanchez, of Puebla, Mexico.

Dahlstrom is an accounting and human resource management major and university baseball player. During his college career, he has been involved with the Lasallian Honors Program, KSMR radio, Delta Mu Delta (the international honor society in business) and Delta Epsilon Sigma (the national scholastic honor society). He also has competed in intramural athletics and volunteered at the ITA Literacy Clinic.

Sanchez is majoring in graphic design. She was a member of the golf and soccer teams, and also played water polo and lacrosse club sports. She’s shared her passion for sports by serving as Big Red, and has helped to recruit other athletes. Sanchez also has worked with phonathon and completed internships with the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies and with Saint Mary’s Press. For a creative outlet, she has exhibited in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, designed T-shirts and posters, and painted a mural in the Cardinal Club.

The following students were finalists for the 2010 Outstanding Senior Awards. Males: Gary Borash, son of Ron and Ann Borash of North Prairie, Minn.; Bill Duffert, son of Doug and Anne Duffert of Ramsey, Minn.; Zhe “Scott” Song, son of Shiqi Song and Haizhan Liu, of Xi’an, China; and Brian Smith, son of Brad and Sue Smith of Minneapolis, Minn. Females: Mary Gleich, daughter of Peter and Kathleen Gleich, of Hastings, Minn.; Vanessa Grams, daughter of Jean and Gregg Grams of Little Falls, Minn.; Molly Jewison, daughter of Dan and Marie Jewison of Janesville, Minn.; and Sarah Weir, daughter of Glenn and Veronica Weir of Oswego, Ill.

Founder’s Day to be held March 2

The campus community will celebrate Founder’s Day on Tuesday, March 2. All faculty and staff are invited to join in the festivities. Mass begins at 10:45 a.m. in Saint Thomas More Chapel, and the convocation will begin at 1 p.m. in Page Theatre. A reception will begin at 2:55 p.m. in the Toner Student Center Lounge.

Saint Mary’s will present an honorary doctorate to Dr. Carmelita Quebengco for her work in the achievement of excellence in Lasallian higher education. She is currently executive vice president and chief operating officer of De La Salle Philippines, and chancellor emeritus of De La Salle University in Manila, Philippines.

Brother Stephen Rusyn, FSC, Ph.D., will be awarded this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award. Brother Stephen is a long-time professor of English who was chosen because of his attention to students, his availability and his dedication to students in every facet of their lives.

Mary Becker will receive the university’s Bishop Patrick Heffron Award for Service. Becker has served in the Office of the President since 1993. She provides a daily example of service to all who live and work on Terrace Heights and of commitment to the mission of Saint Mary’s University.

Additionally, the Outstanding Male and Female Senior Awards will be presented to students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership, service to colleagues and the university community.

The truncated class schedule for the day is:

7:45-9 a.m. classes meet 7:45-8:35 a.m.
9:15-10:30 classes meet 8:45-9:35 a.m.
10:45-noon classes meet 9:45-10:35 a.m.
12:15-1:30 classes meet 3:20-4 p.m.
1:45-3 classes meet 4:10-4:50 p.m.

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

Founder’s Day to be held March 2

The campus community will celebrate Founder’s Day on Tuesday, March 2. All faculty and staff are invited to join in the festivities. Mass begins at 10:45 a.m. in Saint Thomas More Chapel, and the convocation will begin at 1 p.m. in Page Theatre. The truncated schedule for the day is available on SMU Inside Pages, www2.smumn.edu.

Finalists for Outstanding Senior Awards announced

The following students have been named as finalists for the 2010 Outstanding Senior Awards:

Females — Mary Gleich, Vanessa Grams, Molly Jewison, Mariana Sanchez and Sarah Weir.

Males — Gary Borash, David Dahlstrom, William Duffert, Brian Smith and Zhe Song.

Congratulations to these students. Final ballots will be e-mailed to faculty and staff. Seniors will have an opportunity to vote on Wednesday, Feb. 24, at Senior Salute. The awards will be presented at Founder’s Day on March 2.

Faculty, students, Brothers honored at Founder's Day

Dean Beckman and Dr. Jane Anderson

WINONA, Minn. —At its Founder’s Day ceremony Tuesday, Feb. 24, Saint Mary’s University observed the 75th anniversary of the De La Salle Christian Brothers’ affiliation with the university. Also honored were a dedicated faculty member, a Lasallian educator, and two outstanding seniors. Founder’s Day is the annual celebration of the founding of Saint Mary’s in 1912 by Winona Bishop Patrick R. Heffron.

Starting off the Founder’s Day event, Christian Brothers currently affiliated with SMU were recognized for their service to the university. Provincial Edmond Precourt, Superior of the Long Island-New England (LINE) District, accepted a special recognition on behalf of the Brothers of LINE district for their distinguished service. Three SMU presidents (including Brother President William Mann) have been members of this district, which serves Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island and New England with provincial headquarters in Narragansett, R.I.

Dr. Jane Anderson was named as SMU’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator for 2009. Dr. Anderson has been on the faculty since 1995 and now serves as Dean of the School of Education. She is recognized for her efforts to engage and support the San Miguel Schools in Chicago and Minneapolis and her career-long commitment to understand and advance the cause of literacy education. Distinguished Lasallian Educator Awards are given by many Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers; they honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education.

The 2009 Brother H. Charles Severin Award for Excellence in Teaching was presented to Dean Beckman, assistant professor in the Social Science Department. Beckman has been a member of the faculty since 2001 and teaches courses in the mass communication program.

Over the years, he has shown consistent excellence in preparation of his courses, in communication and delivery of course material, and in fairness in dealing with students. He joins 21 other past and present faculty members as a Severin Award recipient. Recipients exemplify the teaching excellence and commitment to a student-centered learning that characterize a Saint Mary’s University education.

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 Jakub Szymanski, son of Ryszard and Marianna Szymanski of Opole, Poland. The Outstanding Female Senior Award went to Emily Berg, daughter of David and Sharleen Berg of Owatonna, Minn.

Szymanski is an accounting major and a statistics minor. He has worked as a resident assistant (serving as SMU’s first international student R.A.), a New Student Orientation leader, a math and business tutor, and a student manager in the cafeteria. He has also actively participated in mission trips, intramurals, Student Senate, Volunteer Services, and Campus Ministry. After graduation, he hopes to earn a graduate degree in accountancy and start a professional career as a Certified Public Accountant.

Berg is a Spanish and K-8 education major with a concentration in language arts. She has played varsity women’s soccer and participated in various intramural sports. She also plays flute in concert band, wind ensemble, and flute choir. A member of the SOUL (Serving Others United in Love) Council, Berg and has led three service trips to Kentucky, Montana and Illinois. She is a member of ASCD, an education club that promotes excellence in education. She has also served as a tutor, taught religious education and migrant school instruction, and coached club and community soccer teams. After graduation, her goal is to teach through Teach for America, Alliance for Catholic Education, or Lasallian Volunteers.

The following students were finalists for the 2009 Outstanding Senior Awards. Males: Gary Borash, son of Ron and Ann Borash of North Prairie, Minn.; Ryan Langr, son of Ken and Cindy Langr of Coon Rapids, Minn.; Neil Leibundguth, son of William and Laura Leibundguth of Westchester, Ill.; and John Nolte, son of Doug and Ruth Nolte of Owatonna, Minn. Females: Maria Borgerson, daughter of Richard and Carol Borgerson of Bellingham, Minn.; Teresa Gill daughter of Mary and Dave Gill, Fort Collins, Colo.; Kaitlin Depuydt, daughter of Mark and Teresa Depuydt of Mankato, Minn.; and Julia Jergenson, daughter of Skip and Kris Jergenson of Houston, Minn.

Founder’s Day planned for Feb. 24

The campus community will celebrate Founder’s Day on Tuesday, Feb. 24. All faculty and staff are invited to join in the festivities. Mass begins at 11 a.m. in Saint Thomas More Chapel. The convocation begins at 1:15 p.m. in Page Theatre.

Class schedules for the day are:
• 7:45 to 9 a.m. classes meet from 8 to 8:50 a.m.;
• 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. classes meet from 9 to 9:50 a.m.;
• 10:45 a.m. to noon classes meet from 10 to 10:50 a.m.;
• 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. classes meet from 3 to 3:50 p.m.; and
• 1:45 to 3 p.m. classes meet from 4 to 4:50 p.m.

Anderson to receive
Distinguished Lasallian Educator award

Dr. Jane Anderson has been named as SMU’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator for 2009. Dr. Anderson has been on the faculty since 1995 and now serves as Dean of the School of Education. She is recognized for her efforts to engage and support the San Miguel Schools in Chicago and Minneapolis and her career-long commitment to understand and advance the cause of literacy education. Distinguished Lasallian Educator Awards are given by many Lasallian ministries in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers; they honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian charism in education.

Beckman to receive Severin Award

The 2009 Brother H. Charles Severin Award for Excellence in Teaching will be presented to Dean Beckman, assistant professor in the Social Science Department. Beckman has been a member of the faculty since 2001 and teaches courses in the mass communication program. Over the years, he has shown consistent excellence in preparation of his courses, in communication and delivery of course material, and in fairness in dealing with students. He joins 21 other past and present faculty members as a Severin Award recipient. Recipients exemplify the teaching excellence and commitment to a student-centered learning that characterize a Saint Mary’s University education.

De La Salle Week events announced

Saint Mary’s University has celebrated Founder’s Day for many years to commemorate its founding in 1912. It has been a time of celebration and recognition of individuals within the Lasallian community.

With so much to celebrate about our Lasallian history and mission, the annual day of celebration has been expanded to become De La Salle Week. The year 2009 marks not only 97 years since our founding, but 75 years since the De La Salle Christian Brothers came to Saint Mary’s University.

Students, staff and faculty members are invited to a week of participation in these opportunities for learning, reflection, discussion and connection with others.

De La Salle Week events are sponsored by the Offices of Mission and Student Development.

SUNDAY, FEB. 22

9 p.m. — Opening liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

Food and money will be collected throughout the week for local Catholic Worker houses.

MONDAY, FEB. 23 - DE LA SALLE DAY

8 a.m. — SMU community gathering, first floor, Saint Mary’s Hall.

12:10 p.m. — Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

4 p.m. — “Lasallian Hour” with Ben Murray ‘96, co-founder and president of San Miguel Middle School-Minneapolis, Common Room.

8 to 9:30 p.m. — “About Lasallian Volunteers” with Martin Richard, Lasallian Volunteer recruiter, Toner Student Center Cardinal Club. Learn more about the Lasallian Volunteer movement and hear from Brendan Corcoran ‘07, current Lasallian Volunteer at San Miguel Middle School, Tulsa, Okla. Refreshments will be provided.

TUESDAY, FEB. 24 - FOUNDER’S DAY

8 a.m. — SMU Community Gathering, first floor, Saint Mary’s Hall.

11 a.m. — Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

1:15 p.m. — Convocation, Page Theatre, including:
• Recognition of the 75th anniversary of Christian Brothers at Saint Mary's;
• Recognition of the Christian Brothers Long Island-New England District for service to and leadership for Saint Mary’s;
• Presentation of the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award;
• Presentation of the Brother H. Charles Severin Award for Excellence in Teaching; and
• Presentation of the Outstanding Senior Awards.

2:30 p.m. — Convocation reception, Hall of Fame Room.

6 to 8 p.m. — Mardi Gras Bazaar, Toner Student Center.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 25 - ASH WEDNESDAY
A day of prayer, fasting and alms giving

12:10 and 4:30 p.m. — Liturgy and distribution of ashes, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

11:30 am to 1 p.m. — Commemorative Lunch, Common Room (A Commemoration of De La Salle’s heroic vow “to live on bread alone;” includes an optional lunch of bread and water and freewill donation for Christ the Teacher Institute for Education, Nairobi campus).
2 and 5 p.m., Service Trip Opportunities, sponsored by Volunteer Services.

7:30 p.m. — “Lasallian Hour” with Dr. Steve Pattee, associate professor of interdisciplinary studies, Common Room.

THURSDAY, FEB. 26 - CELEBRATION OF LASALLIAN ARTS AND SGPP

8 a.m. — SMU Community Gathering, first floor, Saint Mary’s Hall.

12:10 p.m. — Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

4 p.m. — “Lasallian Hour” with Dr. Patrick O’Shea, associate professor of music, Common Room.

4:30 p.m. — Build an igloo with Brother Finbar McMullen, Plaza (weather permitting).

7 to 8:30 p.m. — Fun and Games, Founder’s Style, Hall of Fame Room. Enjoy French cuisine and games from the time of De La Salle in 17th century France; sponsored by Health Advocates.

7:30 p.m. — “The Long Christmas Ride Home,” Valéncia Academy Theatre.

7:30 p.m. — Chamber Singers Homecoming Concert, Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels.

FRIDAY, FEB. 27 - GLOBAL LASALLIAN FAMILY

8 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Fair Trade Sale, first floor, Saint Mary’s Hall.

12:10 p.m. — Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

4 p.m. — “Lasallian Hour” with Brother Christopher Soosai, SMU graduate student from India, Common Room.

7 p.m. — Movie time with Brother Jerome Rademacher, Christian Brothers’ Residence, including Brother Jerome’s famous popcorn! (Limited to 20 people; sign up in Student Activities.)

SATURDAY, FEB. 28 - SERVICE DAY

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Habitat for Humanity Service Trip (sign up in the Office of Campus Ministry).

Noon to 5 p.m. — “Just Bouncing Around” Ping-Pong Tournament, Toner Student Center Game Room.

6 p.m. — “Africa Night,” Common Room; Dinner (first 100 people); 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. music and dance, hosted by Intercultural Awareness Association (ICAA).

SUNDAY, MARCH 1

10:30 a.m. and 9 p.m. — Liturgy for the first Sunday of Lent, Saint Thomas More Chapel. Refreshments follow each Mass, compliments of Campus Ministry.

Finalists announced for Outstanding Senior Awards

The following students have been named finalists for the 2009 Outstanding Senior Award: females — Emily Berg, Maria Borgerson, Kaitlin Depuydt, Teresa Gill and Julia Jergenson; males, — Gary Borash, Ryan Langr, Neil Leibundguth, John Nolte and Jakub Szymanski.

Congratulations go to these outstanding students. Final ballots will be e-mailed to faculty and staff next week. Seniors will have an opportunity to vote next week as well. The award for outstanding female and male senior will be presented at Founder’s Day on Feb. 24.

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.

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.