Friday, September 7, 2007

Admission forum scheduled for Sept. 10

All faculty and staff are invited to an open Admission Forum Monday, Sept. 10. There will be two similar sessions that day. The first session will begin at 12:15 p.m. and end at 1 p.m.; the second session will begin at 4 p.m. and end at 4:45 p.m. Both sessions will take place in the President’s Room. Coffee, tea, and cookies will be served. Guests may bring their lunch to the 12:15 p.m. forum.

Tony Piscitiello, vice president for admission and Karen Sullivan, director for admission, will discuss the past year-in-review, plans and goals for 2008, and unveil the new recruitment DVD. Time will be allotted for questions and comments.

While no RSVP is required, contact the Office of Admission (Ext. 1700 or admissions@smumn.edu) if you plan to attend so the right amount of refreshments can be ordered.

First Page Series event, Pavlo, hits stage Sept. 14

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

The first Page Series event, Pavlo, will hit the stage 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, in Page Theatre.

Pavlo’s unique sound and high-energy concerts have earned him an international reputation as one of today’s great performers. Through guitars, drums and vocals, Pavlo expresses his influences — flamenco, Latin, classical, Greek bouzouki — with a passion that is present in every note. Participants will see why the enthusiasm is contagious during this concert, called “the ultimate Mediterranean experience.”

Tickets are $20, $14 for seniors or $12 for students and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org, in person, or by calling the Performance Center box office at Ext. 1715 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.

Maria Hall and parking sold to Winona State

Saint Mary’s has sold Maria Hall on the Saint Teresa Campus to Winona State University for $2.5 million. The sale includes the 100-room dorm and 60 spaces of adjacent parking. WSU had leased the property from SMU for five years, and leased from the Hiawatha Education Foundation before that.

Saint Mary’s will replace the lost parking capacity by building a new lot between Loretto Hall and Saint Michael’s Fields, near the outdoor tennis courts. Construction will be this fall, depending on availability of contractors.

SMU gallery features diverse art through Oct. 5

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

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

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

The exhibit — free and open to the public — is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Silent art auction to benefit Friends of the School of the Arts

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



A silent auction of works by Monta May, on display in the Lillian Davis Hogan Gallery, will be open through Oct. 5, the duration of the exhibition.

Three of her works, “Red Bowl Ritual,” a canteen gourd; “Bee Garden,” and “From the Beginning,” encaustics on wood, are being auctioned. All proceeds from the auction of these works, as well as 5 percent of the sale price of May’s other exhibited works, will support arts education and programming at Saint Mary’s through the Friends of the School of the Arts.

History Book Prizes announced for spring semester 2007

Since 1995, the Department of History has awarded book prizes to recognize students for outstanding work. The following students were chosen for their work during spring semester: David Dahlstrom and Katie Lenahan, H125 Europe and the World; Amira Sadek, Jenna Schmidknecht, Katherine Schultz, and Ryan Soukup, H150 American Experience; Alfred Beseler, H211 Modern America; Sam Nothnagel, H311 American Foreign Relations; Christina Giunta in both H332 The Renaissance and H368 Contemporary Europe; and Tim Chesterman, H461 Historical Research and Writing. The history faculty congratulate these students.

New books, DVDs, CDs available at the library

Over the summer, the library added 485 new titles on topics ranging from jeans to genes, priestesses to ghost hunters, wedding industry to oil industry, letterpress printing to iPods, Caribbean literature to Australian short stories, Catholicism to Wicca, ancient sport to modern skiing, John Philip Sousa to Nirvana, comics to tea ceramics, forest ecology to dark matter, and more.

Check out the complete list of 367 books (sorted by topic), 88 DVDs, 23 CDs, and other newly-added items.

First biology seminar to feature Dick Kowles

Dr. Richard Kowles, Biology Department, will present the first biology seminar 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 13, in Room 112, Hoffman Hall. Dr. Kowles will discuss “Genetics and Cartoons.”

Robeson, Tristano attend Lasallian leadership program

Valerie Edwards Robeson, Department of Social Science and Richard Tristano, Department of History, represented the Winona campus at the first annual International Lasallian University Leadership Program. The meeting took place at the Generalate of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in Rome, Italy from June 10-23. The program goal was a deeper understanding of Lasallian Partnership and featured a variety of speakers and various community building activities. Participants developed a plan for engaging their home campuses in a deeper understanding of their Lasallian identity.

Highland keynotes at Bethany Lutheran College

Provost Dr. Jeff Highland presented keynote remarks at the faculty/staff workshop at Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, Minn., on Aug. 15. Bethany is preparing its institutional self-study for reaccreditation by the Higher Learning Commission, and Dr. Highland provided an overview of the self-study process to the professional staff and also met with the self-study steering committee. Dr. Highland led SMU’s successful reaccreditation efforts and serves as a consultant/evaluator for the HLC.

McCullough presents in Plainview; memoir translated

Ken McCullough, director of the PASS program and assistant director of Academic Advising, recently presented “An Evening with Dylan Thomas” at the Rural America Writing Center, in Plainview, as part of its “Third Wednesday” series.

“Crossing Three Wildernesses,” a memoir which McCullough co-wrote with Pol Pot survivor U Sam Oeur, has been published in a German edition and is now being translated into Korean.

Heukeshoven attends state music educators meeting

On Sept. 7-8 Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, Music Department, attended the state Minnesota Music Educators’ Association Board of Directors meeting as state collegiate chair. The two-day meeting in Plymouth, Minn., focused on the new revisions to the Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards in the Arts, the mentoring pilot project for new music educators, and plans for this year’s state music education conference. Heukeshoven represents collegiate music education program directors and music education faculty.

John Paulson jazz events

The John Paulson trio will perform 8 to 11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, at The Waterfront in La Crosse. The John Paulson Quartet performs 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Sept. 15, at the Starlite Lounge in La Crosse.

Marine Art Museum offers free faculty/staff open house

The Marine Art Museum will be holding an open house for faculty, staff and their spouses next Wednesday, Sept. 12 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Come and go as you please. This will be an opportunity for faculty and administration to see the museum for free and consider bringing back their students, friends, or family. We will have some wine and cheese available and some informal tours if anyone is interested.

Studio Ramble Fall Art Tour is Sept. 22-23

The 6th annual Studio Ramble, which includes artists in the Red Wing, Minn., and western Wisconsin regions, will be held Saturday, Sept. 22, and Sunday, Sept. 23. This self-guided tour is a premier showcase of diverse talent by established professionals and emerging artists, offering a diverse selection of artistic styles and disciplines that will appeal to the broadest possible audience.

People have the opportunity to experience up close an extensive variety of media; pottery, painting, print making, photography, sculpture, textiles, jewelry, computer imaging and musical instruments.

There will be eleven Studio Ramble sites and 27 artists participating in this year’s event in the Red Wing area. The free Studio Ramble booklet provides detailed information about each artist and their location. The Studio Ramble fall art tour is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on the individual artists, locations, a detailed map, or things to do while in the area visit www.studioramble.com.

Friday, August 31, 2007

SMU to host speaker on PATRIOT Act Sept. 18

George Christian











A Connecticut librarian who is one of only four people in the nation who can legally discuss a gag order imposed as part of a USA PATRIOT Act investigation will speak at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18, at Saint Mary’s. The event — free and open to the public — will be held in Figliulo Recital Hall.

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

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

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

Christian’s appearance is being held in conjunction with events for Constitution Day, which was instituted by the Bill of Rights Institute to “educate young people about the words and ideas of America’s Founders, the liberties guaranteed in our founding documents, and how our founding principles continue to affect and shape a free society.” For more information, contact Dr. Steven Schild, Ext. 1753.

Arts board grants funds for Page Series

The Minnesota State Arts Board granted $12,206 to the Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Performance Center in support of the 2007-2008 Page Performance Series. This generous funding will allow the Page Series to continue to realize its goals of presenting a diverse array of artistic genres and disciplines, world cultures and educational activities with professional artists.

SMU receives ‘Best in Midwest’ honors


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

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

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

SMU changes U.S. News categories

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in a new category in its “America’s Best Colleges” survey for 2008. The annual listing of more than 1,400 schools is available online at www.usnews.com. Rankings were announced Aug. 17.

Saint Mary’s is ranked in the third tier of the U.S. News “National Universities” category. The third tier includes schools ranked 131 through 187 — of 262 total — and is not ranked numerically. Saint Mary’s, St. Thomas and the University of Minnesota are the only Minnesota schools represented in this category.
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U.S. News & World Report ranked “National Universities” in a top tier, third tier and fourth tier. Its other institutional categories include: “Liberal Arts Colleges,” “Universities-Master’s” and “Baccalaureate Colleges.”

This year SMU was grouped in the “National Universities” category by U.S. News & World Report, due to reclassification by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The Carnegie Foundation reclassified SMU from a “master’s comprehensive” to a “doctoral institution.” This change reflects the rising number of doctoral degrees given by Saint Mary’s through its Ed.D. in Leadership program. In previous years, SMU was in the first tier of U.S. News’ “Midwestern Colleges and Universities with Master Degree Programs” category. Last year, SMU was ranked 31st in the top tier of this category.

The “National Universities” category includes 262 American universities (164 public and 98 private) that offer a wide range of undergraduate majors as well as master’s and doctoral degrees.

Admission forum scheduled for Sept. 10

All faculty and staff are invited to an open Admission Forum Monday, Sept. 10. There will be two similar sessions that day. The first session will begin at 12:15 p.m. and end at 1 p.m.; the second session will begin at 4 p.m. and end at 4:45 p.m. Both sessions will take place in the President’s Room. Coffee, tea, and cookies will be served. Guests may bring their lunch to the 12:15 p.m. forum.

Tony Piscitiello, vice president for admission and Karen Sullivan, director for admission, will discuss the past year-in-review, plans and goals for 2008, and unveil the new recruitment DVD. Time will be allotted for questions and comments.

While no RSVP is required, if you plan to attend please contact the Office of Admission (Ext. 1700 or admissions@smumn.edu) if you plan to attend so the right amount of refreshments can be ordered.

First Page Series event, Pavlo, hits stage Sept. 14


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









The first Page Series event, Pavlo, will hit the stage 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, in Page Theatre.

Pavlo’s unique sound and high-energy concerts have earned him an international reputation as one of today’s great performers. Through guitars, drums and vocals, Pavlo expresses his influences — flamenco, Latin, classical, Greek bouzouki — with a passion that is present in every note. Participants will see why the enthusiasm is contagious during this concert, called “the ultimate Mediterranean experience.”

Tickets are $20, $14 for seniors or $12 for students and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org, in person, or by calling the Performance Center box office at Ext. 1715 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.

Saint Teresa Institute open house is Sept. 6











The Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute for Women will host its fall open house from 3 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 6, in its new location, Watters Hall. All are invited to stop by to learn about the Institute, visit with current members, meet the director, Holly RĂ­chard, and “eat your cake too.”

Today is first First Friday open house in game room

As is tradition, Campus Ministry will sponsor “First Fridays” again this year. First Fridays are opportunities for faculty and staff to gather for a continental breakfast while taking a well-deserved break from the office. It also offers employees a chance to get to know co-workers from other areas of campus or simply a chance to catch up with those we seldom see.

Typically, First Friday is held on the first Friday of each month. However, to mark the first week of classes Campus Ministry will be sponsor a First Friday today, Aug. 31, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. in the game room of the Toner Student Center.

If you have not visited the new offices for Campus Ministry and Student Development, this would be a great time to do so. The Campus Ministry office is located across from the game room and Student Development is just down the hall. Stop by to see the new spaces and some new faces.

SMU exhibit features diverse art through Oct. 5

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



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

Artists Monta May, director of web communication at Saint Mary’s, and Carol Faber, assistant professor of art and design at Iowa State University, are displaying their work through Oct. 5.
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In “Interstices,” May displays encaustic paintings, an ancient art form involving pigment, wax, and heat. Her eye-catching grouping of 5- to 7-foot sculptures titled “Communion Circle: 1-10” meets viewers at the exhibit’s entrance.

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

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

The exhibit — free and open to the public — is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

School of the Arts reception, art auction is Sept. 6

The Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Friends of the School of the Arts cordially invites all faculty and staff to a wine and cheese reception on Thursday, Sept. 6, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, featuring works by Monta May,M.F.A., Communication and Marketing. A silent auction of works by the artist will kick off at the reception with proceeds to benefit the Friends of the School of the Arts. Please RSVP to Sherry Boynton at Ext. 6647.

Benefit concert for flood relief is Sept. 7

Saint Mary’s Volunteer Services and Office of Campus Ministry are planning a benefit concert, Rockin’ for Relief, 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 7, in the plaza.

Proceeds will assist victims of flood damage in our surrounding communities. The public is welcome.

Performing will be Bookreader, an SMU student band; SMU’s Adam Stasica; Winonan Mike Munson; and Monday Saga, a band from Milwaukee in which SMU alum Brandon Mathieus performs. Barbecued food will be served, and kids games will be provided. Many big-ticket items, including a Wenonah Canoe, are being donated for a live auction.

Admission will be $10 or $5 for students. A freewill donation will be asked for those younger than 12. Families will be admitted for $10 per adult and freewill donations for children.

The concert will serve as a kickoff for an SMU volunteer weekend of service to flood victims. For more information, contact Katie LaPlant at Ext. 6936.

Flood assistance events

Several groups have already volunteered with cleanup efforts in the area. Katie LaPlant will continue to coordinate ongoing volunteer opportunities from cleanup to rebuilding efforts. The need for assistance is still great. A new volunteer form has been set up at www.smumn.edu/sitepages/pid3522.php. After you have completed the form, LaPlant will be in contact with you.

Any other questions or comments can be addressed to her at kalaplan@smumn.edu or Ext. 6936. Anyone in the SMU community in need of volunteer assistance, is also encouraged to contact LaPlant.
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The school year’s Let’s Do Lunch proceeds have been reallocated to help faculty and staff who have lost their homes or had significant damage. The first Let’s Do Lunch, hosted by the Department of Athletics and Student Development, will be held Sept. 25.

Additionally, the Jeans for a Cause proceeds will be directed to this fund. We’re also adding another Friday! You are encouraged to participate in Jeans for a Cause on the first and third Fridays of each month. Don’t forget to turn in a minimum $5 donation to Student Services and get your sticker to participate.

Laurie Hale Erdmann is compiling a list of those SMU employees who have suffered major damage; so far we know of at least nine faculty and staff who may have lost their homes, and several others who have experienced water damage. Please call Ext. 1464 or e-mail lerdmann@smumn.edu if you, or someone in your department, has been impacted. The Volunteer Committee has formed a subcommittee to designate funds to these families.

Funds — or gift cards — designated for SMU faculty and staff can continue to be turned in at Student Services. The donations so far have been generous. Please continue to keep funds flowing as there are so many within our SMU family who so desperately could use our help.

Please continue to use WinBulletin to report your needs as well as to donate materials. Specific information (like sizes for clothing or shoes) is helpful.

A benefit for SMU faculty and staff flood victims is being organized. A portion of the event will include a silent auction. If you would like to donate baskets, items or services, contact Deb Nahrgang at Ext. 6966 or dnahrgan@smumn.edu. Look for more details about this campuswide fundraiser in the next couple of weeks.

Conservatory registration open house is Sept. 6

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

Registration for semester I classes, beginning Sept. 10, will be accepted at the open house. Tours of the facility will be available, refreshments will be served, and students will have the opportunity to meet new and returning faculty and staff. Additionally, students can be fitted for all their dance attire needs at the open house. MCA’s dance attire boutique offers quality basics including leotards, tights, ballet slippers, jazz shoes and tap shoes.
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Class offerings are available for anyone age 4 through adult and include beginning through advanced levels in classical ballet, tap, jazz, modern, hip hop, Pilates, and a special tuition-free boys program which offers a Dance Technique for Boys class. Semester I also provides programming for teens and adults in partnership with Winona County Community Education including Clogging I, Clogging II, Dance Fitness and Piyo.

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

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

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

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

Conservatory wraps up successful summer

Ten of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts Boys Program students enjoyed workshops with visiting Guest Artists Allen Fields and Tony Smith, July 23–26 at the ValĂ©ncia Arts Center. Pictured are, from left: back, Tony Smith, Jack Bryant, Keegan Eide, Zach Ruben, Chris Bernard, Orion McCullough-Smith, Allen Fields; front, Mac Whaley, Alec Meinke, Kyle Schneider, Hayden Meinke and Jeremiah Munson.

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

MCA served 145 students this summer with dance and theatre programming. Programs included three week-long day camps (Dance Me a Story, Dance the Day Away, and Pied Piper Theatre Camp), adult and specialty boys workshops, and a three-week boarding intensive for intermediate and advanced students.
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Theatre students had the opportunity to study with MCA faculty, as well as professional actors from Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre and Missoula Children’s Theatre. Dance students had the opportunity to study with MCA faculty, as well as visiting guest artists from around the country. Guest artists included Deborah Elias, Allen Fields, Stephanie Milling-Robbins, Tammy Schmidt Perry and Tony Smith.

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

SMU students to perform, study in London first semester

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

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


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

Qualified theatre majors at Saint Mary’s are studying theatre in London, England, this semester through the StefanniĂ© ValĂ©ncia Kierlin Theatre in London Program. Under the guidance of Saint Mary’s faculty, the program will include a variety of classes in theatre, as well as courses focusing on broader enrichment. Students will also have the unique opportunity to attend numerous performances at London’s West End, Off-West End, and Fringe theatres.
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“The Shadow Box,” written by Michael Cristofer, dramatizes the final days of three terminal cancer patients who dwell in separate cottages on a hospital’s grounds. The 1977 Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning play explores their anxieties, as well as their acceptance of the finality of their condition, the inevitable and imminent end of their lives. Family and close friends who visit these patients add some heartrending — as well as humorous — situations.

Participating are: director, Dr. Gary Diomandes; assistant director, Sarah St. Laurent; stage manager, Erica Prond; and lighting designer, Roger Frith. Performers include: Alex Gorgone (Joe), Rachel Crawford-Miller (Maggie), Michael Fye (Steve), Mark Skrade (Brian), JM Montecalvo (Mark), Alyssa Schlageter (Beverly), Martha Walters (Felicity), Whitney Rappana (Agnes), and Diana Connolly (Interviewer).

SMU student receives Ipod Nano in Tegrity survey

Chad Kjorlien, director of Instructional Technology, presents an Ipod Nano to SMU student Matthew Pierskalla. Pierskalla won the Ipod in a drawing from Tegrity for filling out a survey.



SMU student Matthew Pierskalla was presented with an Ipod Nano for completing a Tegrity survey. Sixty students from SMU participated in Tegrity’s survey, and another survey — and giveaway — are planned for the end of fall semester.

Goodview Gallop team places fourth

Congratulations to the SMU Goodview Gallop Team for placing 4th out of 20 teams at the 28th Annual Goodview Gallop 5K Run/Walk benefiting the American Cancer Society. A big congratulations goes to Sandy Beth who received an award for finishing third in her age group.

The following people participated: Bob Fisher, Cindy Kronebusch, Dan Bucknam, Elissa Grabarski, Jackie Killian, Jim Vogel, John Paulson, Karen Hemker, Katrina Klink, Lisa Thorsell, Mandy Pearson, Vicki McDonald, Nicholas Hall and Sandy Beth.

A big thank you goes to Saint Mary’s for sponsoring our team again this year by paying half of our registration fees. Come join the team next year, the third weekend in August, for the 29th Annual Goodview Gallop!

Brother Louis addresses Ethics Conference

Brother Chancellor Louis DeThomasis, FSC, Ph.D., presented “Doing it Right in a Shrinking World: The Balance of Ethics and Profit” at the 2007 Ethics Conference.

The conference, presented by the Foundation for Accounting Education, was held Tuesday, July 31, in New York. Conference topics explored the world of business ethics, where religion, ethical codes and historical perspectives are challenged.

Brother Louis addressed the relationship of global dynamics in financial networks, the role of business in “doing good,” and the question of “Who should do ethics: businesses or the people”? He also discussed the importance of imagination and the role of faith as they relate to doing ethics in today’s rapidly changing and pluralistic economy.

Fox completes term on Mission and Ministry Council

Mary Catherine Fox, Ph.D., Interdisciplinary Studies, completed her second term as chairman of the Mission and Ministry Council for the Midwest District of the Brothers of the Christian Schools at the June 2007 meeting at the provincialate offices in Burr Ridge, Ill. Fox was named by Brother Visitor Frank Carr to the Midwest Chapter planning committee and co-chaired the committee with Brother James Gaffney, president of Lewis University in Romeoville. Fox also chaired the preparatory group on new structures for mission.

Together with Brother Chancellor Louis DeThomasis, Judith K. Schaefer, OP, Ph.D., and Ann Merchelwitz of the Saint Mary’s University Community she presented the group’s proposals at the Midwest District Convocation at Lewis University in July. The Convocation was a prelude to the next legislative district chapter which will be convened in April 2008.

Towers authors ‘No-Brainers’ education book

Dr. Jim Towers, Education Department, has published a book titled, “Twenty ‘No-Brainers’ for Reforming Education in America.” The book, published by MillCity Press, is available in the SMU Bookstore and will be available on Amazon.com later this fall.

In his book, Towers gives a thought-provoking, straight-forward and uncamouflaged look at educational reform. The no-nonsense approach discusses what must be done now to salvage the American educational system. The book is aimed at teachers, administrators, parents, legislators, school boards and all concerned citizens looking to rejuvenate American education. “The reader may not always agree, but is guaranteed never to be bored,” Towers says.

Rodgers interviewed on Radio City Network News

Dr. Jim Rodgers, Social Science, did a taped radio interview on terrorism with Curtis Beckmann of Radio City Network News for the public affairs program “Minnesota This Week” July 13 at the Woodbridge Cooperative Community in New Hope. The program was available for stations to download with primary airing on Sunday, July 29.

McColl to serve as juror, will feature portraits in exhibition

Rob McColl, Art and Design Department, will be a juror for the fine arts exhibition at the Dassel Area Universal Lab Museum in Dassel, Minn., where he will also feature a mini-retrospective of eight portraits of local individuals he created while living in the Dassel area in 1987. The exhibition will run Saturday through Monday, Sept. 1-3.

Congratulations to McCormick family

Karen McCormick(Science Center) and Dan, had a daughter, Alivia Christine, on Monday, Aug. 20. The Saint Mary’s community extends its congratulations to the McCormick family.

Friday, May 4, 2007

Saint Mary’s receives notice of continued accreditation*

On May 2, Saint Mary’s University received official notification from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) that its accreditation was continued. This action by the HLC Board of Trustees was the last step in the university’s reaccreditation efforts, which included preparation of a self-study document and an October 2006 HLC Evaluation Team visit. Saint Mary’s next comprehensive evaluation with HLC is scheduled for 2016-2017.
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Brother Chancellor Louis DeThomasis stated that “the HLC action is wonderful news for the university, and affirms what we already know: that Saint Mary’s provides a high quality, distinctive education. I am grateful to the members of the SMU community for bringing this reaccreditation process to a successful conclusion.”

Dr. Jeff Highland, provost and chairman of the Self-Study Steering Committee, noted that “we have already begun to implement some of the recommendations from the self-study and the team report, and we look forward to using the findings to make SMU an even better institution.”

The team report states, “Saint Mary’s University is to be commended for the high-quality programming at low cost to individuals at their many sites throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin.”

Now that HLC has validated the team’s findings, the “Report of a Visit” can be found on the self-study webpage, accessed through the provost's webpage, www.smumn.edu/provost. This document is password protected for SMU network users only, to be used internally.

Saint Mary’s announces VP for Academic Affairs for the College

Thomas Mans, Ph.D.

Brother Chancellor Louis DeThomasis has appointed Thomas Mans, Ph.D., as Vice President for academic affairs for the undergraduate College, effective June 1.

The vice president is responsible for the academic programming, academic support service areas, faculty and academic administrative staff of the undergraduate College.
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Dr. Mans is a native of Northeastern Iowa. He comes to Saint Mary’s from Saint Vincent College in Pennsylvania, where he served as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College from 2002 to the present. His administrative experience includes serving in various dean and associate dean positions at Creighton University in Nebraska, and as an assistant and associate professor of political science at Creighton as well as Berea College in Kentucky.

Dr. Mans holds a B.A. in government and history from St. John’s University in Minnesota, and an M.A. and Ph.D. in political science from the University of Iowa. His academic specialization is American political institutions, processes and public policy.

Dance Repertory Company to present spring concert*

The 2006-07 performance season at Saint Mary’s University concludes with the Dance Repertory Company’s annual spring concert, “Pure Entertainment,” May 18-19. The event, which will begin at 7:30 p.m., will be held in Page Theatre.
Read more.


For more than three decades, the Dance Repertory Company has presented the Winona community with quality dance productions with local dancers featuring classical and contemporary works. This year the DRC presents a concert featuring contemporary ballet, swing, and tap — all to the music of the ’30s and ’40s and choreographed by Christine Martin, production coordinator, and Allen Fields, the Conservatory’s artist in residence.

Performed by current dancers training at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, “Pure Entertainment” will showcase the effervescent spirit, unlimited energy, and technical and artistic abilities that continue to inspire audiences year after year.

“This concert is for everyone,” said Martin. “Children will enjoy wonderful dancing, accompanied by the great music of Ella Fitzgerald for the first time, while their grandparents will reminisce in the memories of this era.”

Cast members include: Chris Bernard, Jackson Bryant, Madeleine Bryant, Trisha Crichton, Keegan Eide, Lydia Feuerhelm, Katie Harbinson, Lars Johnson, Marta Johnson, Caitlin Kamen, Rebekah Mulkey, Katie Nurmela, Augusta Rodgers, Miranda Ruben, Zach Ruben, Danielle Schleich, Jenny Schmidt, Alyssa Schneider, Crystal Sell, Claire Smart, Minami Takar, Lexy Valentine, Adelle Vietor, Kaitlyn Vietor, and Amanda Weatherhead.

The Dance Repertory Company is the youth performing troupe of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts. Company members participate in rehearsals, technique classes and stage performances.

Tickets to the 7:30 p.m. performances in Page Theatre cost $8, $6 for students and senior citizens and may be purchased online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the Performance Center box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.

Winona campus commencements are May 12

The undergraduate commencement ceremony begins at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 12, in the gymnasium. Assembly for the procession will take place at 10:15 a.m. on the road in front of Saint Mary’s Hall. In case of inclement weather, assembly will be in Gostomski Fieldhouse.
Read more.


The graduate ceremony begins at 4 p.m. Assembly for the procession will take place at 3:15 p.m. in Gostomski Fieldhouse.

Receptions will follow both ceremonies on the Plaza. In case of inclement weather, the receptions will be held in Gostomski Fieldhouse.

Baccalaureate Mass will take place in the gymnasium at 8:30 a.m.

Senior grades are due in the Office of the Registrar on Wednesday, May 9, no later than noon.

Seniors will rehearse for commencement on Friday, May 11, at 10 a.m. in the gymnasium.

An invitation to Homecoming 2007

The Alumni Association would like to invite you to the 2007 Homecoming celebration June 15-17. On June 15, a golf outing will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at Bridges Golf Club, and a 50+ dinner will begin at 6 p.m. in the north dining room of the Toner Student Center.
Read more.


On June 16, the Gilmore Gallop 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. (registration at 7:45 a.m.), food for the picnic will be served from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Max Molock Field, Mass will begin at 5 p.m. in Saint Thomas More Chapel, and the alumni reception begins at 6 p.m. (followed by dinner at 6:45 p.m. and an), all in the dining room of the Toner Student Center. From 9 to 11 p.m., a reunion party will be held in the Cardinal Club, and a piano sing-along will be in the President’s Room. Mass on Sunday will begin at 9:30 a.m.

Homecoming is a time for the SMU community to come together in celebration and share memories of Saint Mary’s. It’s a great opportunity for faculty to reconnect with alums during this activity-filled weekend.

Weinmann a finalist for Athlete of Year honor

Amanda Weinmann (Rochester, Minn.) inched one step closer to adding yet another athletic and academic honor to her ever-growing résumé.
Read more.


On Thursday, the Saint Mary’s senior was named as one of the four female finalists for the College Sporting News Senior Student-Athlete of the Year Award.

The CSN SSAA is awarded to one male and one female senior student-athlete who personifies what the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and NCAA Division III represent — academic excellence, outstanding athletic performance and a commitment to community service.

A two-time NCAA Division III All-American in the shot put, Weinmann won the 2007 MIAC weight throw title, and was runner-up to teammate Ashley Luehmann (Lewiston, Minn.) in the shot put. A seven-time All-MIAC indoor and outdoor track and field selection, Weinmann is the first-ever MIAC athlete to be named MIAC Field Athlete of the Week three weeks in a row.

A double-major in biophysics and engineering physics with a 3.986 GPA, Weinmann was SMU’s 2005-06 Outstanding Female Scholar Athlete and is a three-time USTFCCCA All-Academic Team selection. A National Merit finalist, she is also a four-time recipient of the Frederick Gardner Cottrell Ethical Leadership Scholarship in Scientific Research, the Mayo Foundation Scholarship, and the Saint Thomas More Scholarship (Saint Mary’s most prestigious academic student award).

In her “spare” time, Weinmann has performed service at Starry Nights, Gifts for Winona during the Christmas holidays, and the Rivertown Shuffle annual cancer walk, sponsored by the American Cancer Society. She has also served as Physics and Astronomy Club president.

The other three female finalists are: Carrie Embree (St. Thomas/volleyball, softball), Hailey Harren (Gustavus/cross country, track and field) and Kaela Schramm (Macalester/ track and field).

La Salle Woodwind Quintet to perform May 5*

LaSalle Woodwind Quintet members include, clockwise from top, Jen Welch, bassoon; Tammy Bartz, horn; Layla Lunde, oboe; Sylva Hanson, clarinet; and Janet Heukeshoven, flute. The quintet is posing around one of the Blue Heron statues, located at Saint Mary’s University, which features tickets to a LaSalle Woodwind Quintet performance as part of its arts theme. The group’s next concert is May 5.

The La Salle Woodwind Quintet, an ensemble comprised of professional artists who teach in the music department of Saint Mary’s, will perform 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 5, in Figliulo Recital Hall. The performance is free and open to the public, and a reception will follow the recital.
Read more.


Quintet members include: Janet Heukeshoven, flute; Layla Lunde, oboe; Sylva Hanson, clarinet; Tammy Bartz, horn; and Jen Welch, bassoon.

The performance will feature Mozart’s “Partita in Bb,” Malcolm Arnold’s “Three Shanties for Wind Quintet,” three traditional spirituals for wind quintet, and Debussy’s “Girl with the Flaxen Hair,” featuring Lunde on the English horn.

The La Salle Woodwind Quintet debuted in fall of 2003 and has since performed regionally in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

For more information, contact Dr. Heukeshoven at jheukesh@smumn.edu or Ext. 1675.

Students encouraged to use Dumpster Diversion

The Office of Activities Leadership and Services and the SMU Chapter of Habitat for Humanity have teamed up with Habitat Restore and The Catholic Worker Houses for Dumpster Diversion.

Students can place unwanted clothing, food, appliances and furniture in their hall’s lounge, and Habitat and the Catholic Worker volunteers will come by and pick it up. All donations go to aid in the work that these organizations participate in.

For more information, contact Katie LaPlant, Ext. 6936.

Buy gifts, raise funds for Kenya programs

Looking for a unique, colorful, cross-cultural gift for someone? Special African gifts will be available Tuesday, May 8, in Room 123, Saint Mary’s Hall. Colorful African shirts, carvings, art work and hand-made batiks will be for sale. All items, except for the batiks, will be sold via silent auction. The bidding will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Money will help fund Kenyan programs.

Senior art show to run through May 12*

SMU senior art students will present the next art show, “emergence” through May 12 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries. Artists displaying include Brytton Bjorngaard, Nicole Bohn, Anna Dehmer, Travis Hanson, Josh Kanuch, Dani Lynch, Jessica Ribish, Holly Schuh, Brian Stallone, Brian Stuck and Brittany Volz. The galleries — free and open to the public — are open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Challenge ends; Aquinas wins ‘Super Bowl’

Last Sunday Aquinas defeated Decorah, 135-115 and became the 2006-2007 High School Challenge Super Bowl winners. Thank you for tuning in to watch this season, supporting area high school students and Saint Mary's University. Tune in next year!

SMU to host Above & Beyond reception May 9

Saint Mary’s University is hosting the Above and Beyond awards reception Wednesday, May 9, at the Alverna Center, located on the Saint Teresa campus. Other program sponsors are the Winona Daily News, Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical and Winona State University.
Read more.


The evening begins at 6:30 p.m., with presentation of awards and scholarships scheduled for 7 p.m. Invited are the nine area Above & Beyond high school winners, their families and high school officials, along with representatives from the community sponsors. Award winners typically have inspiring stories about overcoming obstacles.


Current SMU senior Justin Simmons, who is deaf and will graduate this spring, is the featured speaker.

SMU signs cultural academic pact with Japanese schools*

Saint Mary’s University signed a cultural and educational agreement between SMU and Ryukyu America Historical Research Society located in Okinawa, Japan. The agreement states:

“To promote a mutually beneficial relationship, the above named institutions and affiliated Okinawa, Japan, schools agree to create and nurture an educational and cultural collaboration to enhance international goodwill and promote the personal and professional development of their students, graduates and faculty.
Read more.


“In this spirit, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, the Ryukyu America Historical Research Society and the affiliated schools agree that:

“Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota will endeavor to regularly offer and host a summer English and American culture program for students from the Okinawa schools affiliated with the Ryukyu American Historical Research Society (RyuBei Kai)

“In numbers and conditions to be agreed upon by all partners and individual participants, RyuBei Kai and its affiliated city, town and villages on Okinawa will welcome graduates of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota who are interested in volunteering to teach English and American culture while pursuing their fields of study or research.

“Based on the recommendations of appropriate affiliate high school officials and teachers, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota will welcome applicants for admission to their undergraduate programs. All candidates for admission must be reviewed and accepted by the Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota International Student Admissions Committee.

“Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota will award $10,000 International Student Cultural Diversity Scholarships per year for four consecutive years to qualified and accepted undergraduate students.

“Where mutually beneficial, the collaborating institutions will explore and encourage educational exchanges, including but not limited to faculty exchanges.

“The collaborating institutions agree to explore and encourage other programs which promise to be mutually beneficial.

“To the best of their ability and means, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, Ryukyu America Historical Research Society and the affiliated cities, towns and villages of Okinawa, Japan, pledge to further the cause of international education and cultural understanding through the development and maintenance of the bridges established by this collaborative agreement, signed this day of April 27, 2007.”

Buttons to raise awareness about domestic abuse

Students in the Intimate Partner Violence class made and are giving away domestic violence awareness buttons to anyone who asks, and will also have them available in the cafeteria and at the Student Services windows. The students want to make it clear that at Saint Mary’s, we know intimate partner violence happens, we aren’t afraid to name it, and support is available. Remember a friend, respect a mother, challenge a brother, give hope to those suffering invisibly among us. Pick your reason, and wear a button to raise awareness about domestic violence.

Students you can ask for a button are: Amanda Gage, Jessica Gzik, Jacki Hagel, Tanya Kelly, Glenna Krzyzanowski, Katie Nowak and Jessica Sance.

Volunteer Committee events

Ken Tedesco at De La Salle High School, New Orleans wrote:

“God bless and thank you and the entire Saint Mary’s University Community for your on-going prayers and support. We have grateful hearts.

“The city and citizens live in and with uncertainty. While the storm was 20 months ago ... hard to believe ... the areas of the city that the storm destroyed are still unliveable. Slow progress is being made to rebuild. Homeowner’s insurance is difficult to get on properties, causing growth and rebuilding to be very slow.

Please know in a world of differences Saint Mary’s University is making a world of difference in the lives of our students, families and faculty.”
Today is another Jeans for a Cause Friday. Pick up your sticker at Student Services. Donations are being sent to De La Salle High School.

A tentative schedule for future “Let’s Do Lunches” includes:
May 18 — “Let’s Do Ice Cream”
June 22 — “Let’s Do Ice Cream”
July 20 — “Let’s Do Ice Cream”

Twenty-two faculty, staff and students cleaned up Gilmore Creek as part of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resource’s Adopt-a-River program.

A wheelbarrow, bicycle, three sleds, as well as nine bags and one barrel-full of garbage were collected. Thanks to all the volunteers who helped keep the creek clean!

Jazz events*

Swing Inc. (including Eric Heukeshoven of the Music Department) performs 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 17, at Saint Anne Hospice in Winona; 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 18 at the Canadian Honker Restaurant in Rochester; 7 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, May 19, at Michael’s Restaurant in Rochester; and 7:30 to 10 p.m. Thursday, May 24 at Jefferson Pub & Grill in Winona.

Heart and SOUL Row, Ride and Run Triathlon results

Startline of the 2007 Heart & S.O.U.L. Row Ride Run Triathlon, Winona Lake







Martin Stensing, 1st Place Individual








Chris 3(cubed) - Kristin Stoneberg, Chris Dembiec, Chris Kendall.








Congratulations to all who participated in the first annual Heart and SOUL Row, Ride and Run Triathlon, which took place last Sunday! Thanks to your involvement, beautiful weather (besides the wind), great sponsors and amazing volunteers, more than $900 was raised to help defray the costs for future SOUL (Serving Others United in Love) trips.
Read more.


SMU’s own Martin Stensing was the first person to cross the finish line, having paddled, biked and run the course in 1:25:52. “Chris 3”, consisting of Chris Kendall, Chris Dembiec and Kristen Stoneberg, finished first out of the teams with a time of 1:52:40. Overall, 32 Saint Mary’s students and employees took part in the event, of a total field of 31 individuals and nine teams.
Detailed results and pictures can be found on the Campus Ministry website www.smumn.edu/heartandsoul.

The SOUL council once again thanks all who participated or helped with the event. We look forward to seeing you all again next year!

Library hours

The library will be open:

Today, May 4, 7:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Saturday, May 5, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 6, noon to 2 a.m.
Monday, May 7, 7:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Tuesday, May 8, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Martin, Cochran co-author article on horsehair worms*

William Martin ’06 and Phil Cochran, Biology Department, have co-authored an article that appeared in the latest Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science: “Horsehair worms (Phylum Nematomorpha) in Iowa and Minnesota.” They included a consideration of specimens collected by the Art Department’s Preston Lawing!

Heukeshoven serves as guest soloist*

Dr. Janet Heukshoven, Music Department, performed as the featured piccolo soloist with the Caledonia High School Band May 1 at their annual instrumental spring concert. She performed Henry Mancini’s “Pennywhistle Jig.”

Last ‘Campus Notes’

This is a reminder that this is the last ‘Campus Notes’ this school year. Please continue to keep the Office of Communication and Marketing informed of events throughout the summer. Contact Deb Nahrgang at Ext. 6966 or dnahrgan@smumn.edu to help with any summer communications or public relations needs.

Great Dakota Gathering is June 2-3 in Winona

Those of you who are not leaving town right after graduation should consider attending the Great Dakota Gathering and Homecoming on June 2-3 in the Jaycee Pavilion area of Lake Park.
Read more.


Saint Mary’s University supports the Gathering. Two members of the Dakota Nation are students at our Winona campus.

The Dakota Peoples who lived in the Winona area in the 19th century, but were relocated west by the Federal Government, have joined with the Winona Dakota Unity Alliance, the City of Winona and the Diversity Foundation, to work on reconciliation between the ancestors of those who were relocated and those who now live in the Winona area.

The event offers something for all ages, including children. There will be sunrise ceremonies, feasting, a learning tent, food sales, a Grant Entry and dancing along with a “truth and reconciliation” circle. There will be hoop dancing and other entertainment Saturday evening.

The total cost is a $5 button for the breakfasts and unity feasts on Saturday and Sunday.

For further information, check the website at www.dakotahomecoming.org or contact Terry Goldmann, WDUA Board member, at Ext. 7585.

Workshops to address ‘Low Carbon Diet’

This is to let you know that Sustain Winona is offering a series of workshops on how to reduce your carbon footprint, by going on a Low Carbon Diet. Carbon is a by-product of human activities like car and air travel, home heating and cooling. High levels of carbon in the atmosphere are contributing to climate changes with higher temperatures and more erratic weather. The first three diet workshops are scheduled for May 3, May 17 and May 31.

Please e-mail Martha Greenwald at sustain@hbci.com if you plan to come or if you have any questions.

Sympathy to Lucken family

Brother Urban Lucken, FSC, ’35 died Sunday, April 29. Brother Urban dedicated 76 years of commitment to the Lasallian mission. He taught English for many years at Saint Mary’s and was also director of alumni programs. Saint Mary’s University extends its sympathy to friends and family.

Thursday, April 26, 2007

Winona campus commencements are May 12

The undergraduate commencement ceremony begins at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 12, in the gymnasium. Assembly for the procession will take place at 10:15 a.m. on the road in front of Saint Mary’s Hall. In case of inclement weather, assembly will be in Gostomski Fieldhouse.
Read more.


The graduate ceremony begins at 4 p.m. Assembly for the procession will take place at 3:15 p.m. in Gostomski Fieldhouse.

Receptions will follow both ceremonies on the Plaza. In case of inclement weather, the receptions will be held in Gostomski Fieldhouse.

Baccalaureate Mass will take place in the gymnasium at 8:30 a.m.

Senior grades are due in the Office of the Registrar on Wednesday, May 9, no later than noon.

Seniors will rehearse for commencement on Friday, May 11, at 10 a.m. in the gymnasium.

An invitation to Homecoming 2007

The Alumni Association would like to invite you to the 2007 Homecoming celebration June 15-17. On June 15, a golf outing will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at Bridges Golf Club, a 50+ dinner will begin at 6 p.m. in the north dining room of the Toner Student Center. On June 16, the Gilmore Gallop 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. (registration at 7:45 a.m.), food for the picnic will be served from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Max Molock Field, Mass will begin at 5 p.m. in Saint Thomas More Chapel, and the alumni reception begins at 6 p.m. (followed by dinner at 6:45 p.m. and an), all in the dining room of the Toner Student Center. From 9 to 11 p.m., a reunion party will be held in the Cardinal Club, and a piano sing-along will be in the President’s Room. Mass on Sunday will begin at 9:30 a.m.

Homecoming is a time for the SMU community to come together in celebration and share memories of Saint Mary’s. It’s a great opportunity for faculty to reconnect with alums during this activity-filled weekend!

Jazz concert tonight to feature alumni combo*

John Paulson, Ph.D.

Saint Mary’s will present a celebratory evening of jazz 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 27, in Page Theatre. Included in the concert will be the 18-piece SMU Jazz Ensemble and an alumni select jazz combo, featuring the talents of some of SMU’s most outstanding graduates, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson.
Read more.


Dr. Paulson is celebrating his 25th anniversary with the SMU Department of Music.

Alumni will also solo with the big band, which will perform, “I Hear a Rhapsody,” by Fragos, featuring a new arrangement by Dr. Paulson; “Lush Life” by Billy Strayhorn, arranged by Mike Tomaro; “Slam” by Dave Sanborn, arranged by Marcus Miller; “Tickle Toe” by Lester Young, arranged by Dave Wolpe; “Blues in the Closet” by Oscar Pettiford, arranged by Mark Taylor; and “They Still Have a Pad Downtown,” by Dr. Paulson.

Tickets are $6, $4 for students and seniors and may be purchased online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the Performance Center box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays. For further information, contact Dr. Paulson at Ext. 1596 or jpaulson@smumn.edu.

LaSalle Woodwind Quintet to perform May 5*

The La Salle Woodwind Quintet

The La Salle Woodwind Quintet, an ensemble comprised of professional artists who teach in the music department of Saint Mary’s, will perform 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 5, in Figliulo Recital Hall. The performance is free and open to the public, and a reception will follow the recital.
Read more.


Quintet members include: Janet Heukeshoven, flute; Layla Lunde, oboe; Sylva Hanson, clarinet; Tammy Bartz, horn; and Jen Welch, bassoon.

The performance will feature Mozart’s “Partita in Bb,” Malcolm Arnold’s “Three Shanties for Wind Quintet,” three traditional spirituals for wind quintet, and Debussy’s “Girl with the Flaxen Hair,” featuring Lunde on the English horn.

The LaSalle Woodwind Quintet debuted in fall of 2003 and has since performed regionally in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

For more information, contact Dr. Heukeshoven at jheukesh@smumn.edu or Ext. 1675.

SMU choirs to present spring concert April 28*

The Chamber Singers, Concert Choir and Women’s Choir will present their annual spring concert 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels, located at Wabasha and Vila streets.
Read more.



The beautiful former chapel for the College of Saint Teresa is a perfect visual and acoustic setting for choral music. The Concert Choir will perform “Three Scottish Folksongs,” arranged by Mack Wilberg and featuring SMU’s Dr. Ned Kirk and Dr. Jeffrey Highland on piano, “Funeral Music for Queen Mary” by Henry Purcell and “Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel,” arranged by Moses Hogan.

The Chamber Singers will perform “Mass for Five Voices,” by William Byrd, “Beata Dei Genitrix Maria” by Francisco Guerrero, “Drei Rilkegesänge by Patrick O’Shea, “Crucifying” by Russell Woolen and “Hosanna to the Son of David” by Orlando Gibbon.

Both groups are under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea. The Women’s Choir is directed by Peter Schleif.

Tickets are $6, $4 for students and seniors and may be purchased online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the Performance Center box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.

Ethnic percussion ensemble spring concert May 2*

The Batucada Nossa Senhora ethnic percussion ensemble of Saint Mary’s will present its 15th annual spring concert 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 2, in Page Theatre. Batucada Nossa Senhora translates to Percussion Ensemble of Our Lady.
Read more.


The performance, under the direction of Denny McGuire, will consist of music from Brazil, Cuba and Puerto Rico, combining for an enriching multi-cultural experience for all ages. Batucada members include SMU students, many of whom are music majors, as well as community members.

The Saint Mary’s Jazz Combo, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, will open the show.

Tickets are $6, $4 for students and seniors and may be purchased online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the Performance Center box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.

Student chamber music recital is April 29*

The SMU student chamber music recital will be held 3 p.m. Sunday, April 29, in Figliulo Recital Hall. Presented will be works by Telemann, Hayden, Doppler, Huguenin and Tustin, performed by small woodwind ensembles coached by Dr. Janet Heukeshoven. This event is free and open to the public. A reception will follow the recital.

Saint Mary’s business programs accredited*


Dr. Tom Marpe, left, chairman of the Saint Mary’s University Business Department, is congratulated by Dr. Terry Girdon, chairman of the board of commissioners of the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. Saint Mary’s University was granted specialized accreditation of its business degree programs.


At the 2007 annual conference of the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), the board of commissioners announced that Saint Mary’s University was granted specialized accreditation of its business degree programs.

Read more.

Accredited programs have been examined by trained evaluators who ensure that the IACBE’s standards are being met in eight key areas: outcomes assessment, strategic planning, curriculum, faculty, scholarly and professional activities, resources, internal/external relationships, and educational innovation. The quality of the business programs is measured by the accomplishment of the school’s mission and broad-based goals, the effectiveness of student learning, and the operational effectiveness of the business programs.

Based in the Kansas City metropolitan area, the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education is the premier business accrediting association for business programs in student-centered colleges and universities. Saint Mary’s joins a growing list of 230 IACBE member institutions in the United States and 20 countries that support quality assurance in education.

E-CHUG: A Tool for Alcohol Assessment and Education

Recent research conducted on the use of alcohol and other drugs by SMU students highlights a clear link between high-risk drinking and negative consequences. Faculty and staff members of SMU have opportunities to reach out to the student body and engage them in discussion about their drinking.
Read more.


The assessment e-CHUG (Electronic Check-Up to Go) provides a helpful tool to talk about these issues. The e-CHUG assessment is an interactive web survey that allows college students to enter information about their drinking patterns and receive feedback about their use of alcohol. It is free for any student or employee of the university and takes only about 5-10 minutes to complete. Faculty and staff are encouraged to take the survey for their own use, to be better prepared to recommend and discuss it with students, and to think about creative ways to use e-CHUG in the classroom, lab, and/or during office visits with students.

Reasons to do an e-CHUG assessment and suggest its use to students include:

It provides personal assessment of one’s own level of drinking and tobacco use and allows for comparison with current SMU students.

  1. It provides personal and confidential information about levels of risk based on consumption of alcohol.
  2. E-Chug is a free service to any SMU student, faculty or staff member. It is accessible from any computer with internet access: https://interwork.sdsu.edu/echug2/?id=SMUMN&hfs=
  3. The assessment takes only about 5-10 minutes to complete, is self-guided, and requires no face-to-face contact time with a counselor or administrator.
  4. Information increases personal power to have more choices and healthier outcomes and lifestyles. E-Chug is a tool to improve personal quality of life.
  5. E-Chug can be used as an educational tool for enhancing discussion and awareness related to alcohol and risk factors.
If there are specific concerns about a student’s alcohol use, contact Dr. Michael O’ Friel, so that he can facilitate additional support and assistance.

E-Chug can be accessed by going go to http://www.smumn.edu, clicking on “Current Students,” then on “Wellness Center,” followed by “Alcohol and Drug Education.” Scroll down the Alcohol and Drug page to the e-CHUG logo which will provide access to the survey. Further questions or concerns may be directed to Dr. O’Friel, AOD Education coordinator and counsel, at Ext. 6692. Dr. O’Friel’s office is located in the Wellness Center.

Next Kabara event to feature three alums*

The next Kabara event will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 1, in Room E of the Toner Student Center. Three alumni will speak to students about entrepreneurship and business management. They include:

Matt Sheasby ’88, majored in mass communications and minored in humanities. He is the president of his own business, Micro Medics, Inc. Micro Medics performs nationwide laptop repair for companies like Circuit City, Best Buy and Costco.
Read more.


Tom Schultz ’75, majored in business administration. Schultz retired from Motorola in 2006 after 31 years of a wide variety of global business experiences in operational and staff roles. His last position at Motorola was senior vice president, real estate and development. Motorola is known around the world for innovation and leadership in wireless and broadband communications. Schultz is currently self-employed, focusing on the areas of business advising and mentoring.

Bob Hildreth ’77, majored in marketing and management. He is president of ESP Systems Professionals Inc., an informational technologies company that works with computer consulting and programming.

The panelists will be asked to briefly discuss how their Saint Mary’s foundation helped them get where they are today, share a brief synopsis of their business background and also share any advice they have for students.

Saint Mary’s seniors honored at awards banquet

Saint Mary’s University recognized outstanding senior students Tuesday, April 18, at the annual Senior Academic Honors Banquet.
Read more (includes list of awardees).



Highlights of the evening included the announcement of graduate and professional school acceptances, grants and fellowships, and the awarding of the following special honors:

American Institute of Chemists Award (chemistry award) — Rachel Harrison (chemistry), and Holly Lacher (biochemistry)

American Chemical Society Award (chemistry award) — Ashley Davis

Accounting (business award) — Indeah Gustafson

International Business Award (business award) — Brooke Zachman

Management Award (business award) — Michael Kopischke

Marketing Award (business award) — Stephanie Klinger

Wall Street Journal/Business Student of the Year (business award) — Angela Pieper

Saint Thomas Aquinas Award for Excellence (philosophy award) — Nathan Sparks

Grove Bree Holman Award (theatre arts award) — Sarah Engle and Alisan Soucheray

Gerald E. Sullivan Award (theatre arts award) — Daniel Pancratz

Michael G. Flanagan Award (theatre arts award) — Timothy Markus

Brother Leo Northam Award (mathematics award) — Rebecca Bartelson and Jennifer Johnson

Winona Community Service Award — Lisa Boris and Amy Glasgow

Student Alumni Relations Group Scholarship — Jessica Voight

Ochrymowycz Family Scholarship — Jennifer Truhler and Elizabeth Wessa

Lasallian Honors Program Outstanding Senior Awards — Jessica Voight and Jacob Olzen

Student Service Award — Tera Bollig

Brother James Miller Award — Jacob Olzen and Eric Sonnek

Senior art show to run through May 12*

SMU senior art students will present the next art show, “emergence” through May 12 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries. Artists displaying include Brytton Bjorngaard, Nicole Bohn, Anna Dehmer, Travis Hanson, Josh Kanuch, Dani Lynch, Jessica Ribish, Holly Schuh, Brian Stallone, Brian Stuck and Brittany Volz. The galleries — free and open to the public — are open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Challenge face-off between Decorah, Aquinas

On La Crosse’s Fox 25/48 last Sunday, Decorah defeated Holmen 190-185 in the second semi-final game of High School Challenge, a tournament of knowledge sponsored by and held at Saint Mary’s. This win means Decorah will take on Aquinas in the “Super Bowl!”

Airing this Sunday, April 29, Holmen will take on Decorah in the second semi-final game of High School Challenge. Tune in to Fox 25/48 at 10 a.m. Sunday, April 29, to see which teams is the 2006-07 High School Challenge “Super Bowl” winner.

SMU to host Above & Beyond reception May 9

Saint Mary’s University is hosting the Above and Beyond Awards Reception Wednesday, May 9, at the Alverna Center, located on the Saint Teresa campus. Other program sponsors are the Winona Daily News, Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical and Winona State University.
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The evening begins at 6:30 p.m., with presentation of awards and scholarships scheduled for 7 p.m. Invited are the nine area Above & Beyond high school winners, their families and high school officials, along with representatives from the community sponsors. Award winners typically have inspiring stories about overcoming obstacles.

Current SMU senior Justin Simmons, who is deaf and will graduate this spring, is the featured speaker.

Scott and Jeff radio marathon is May 3

For the third consecutive year, the Scott and Jeff Show (a quirky talk show hosted by two Saint Mary’s business faculty members, Scott Deml and Jeff Hefel) will do a 10-hour Habitat for Humanity Radio-a-thon.
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The unpredictable fundraising show will run from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, May 3. Additional members of the SMU community will be making guest appearances.

Donations are being sought for an on-air auction. The more bizarre, the better. Donations can be brought to Kathy Pedersosn, kepeders@smumn.edu, in Student Services.

Callers may pledge money by dialing Ext. 1615. In 2005, the duo raised $500; the total tripled to nearly $1,500 last year; Hefel and Deml hope the donations continue to grow.

The Scott and Jeff Show can be heard on SMU radio station, KSMR, 92.5-FM on the Saint Mary’s campus and 94.3-FM in Winona. Their regular show plays 3 to 5 p.m. Thursdays.

Known for being “so bad they’re good,” the duo play music by Jimmy Buffett and Elton John in between their corny contests and bantering. For the radio-a-thon, the group will expand their music venue to play a variety of artists.

Currently, Scott and Jeff are looking for members of the SMU community to sign up for one- hour time slots to be spent in the booth with the stars. Contact Matt Klosky at mklosky@smumn.edu if you are interested.

Saint Mary’s Flea Market starts today

A flea market is being held from 1 to 4 p.m. today and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. tomorrow in the Plaza. For more information, contact Jake Olzen or Katie LaPlant at Ext. 6936.

Admission to host Field of Dreams open house

The Office of Admission will host Preview Day 2007 on Saturday, April 28.

Preview Day is an open house for high school juniors interested in attending college. This year, high school seniors who have applied to SMU but have not visited campus are also invited.
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This year’s Preview Day is called “Field of Dreams,” and families are invited to watch the home baseball and softball games that afternoon.

Families will be arriving around 10 a.m. and have a schedule set until 1:30 p.m. All departments and offices are invited to have a booth during the open house from 1:30 to 4 p.m. in the gymnasium. It will be run similarly to the Campus Resource Fair during New Student Orientation.

High school bands ‘Rock to Stock’ Food Shelf

Shown performing are "DayWalkers" from Cotter.




Winona high school bands combined their talents to raise $1,000 to benefit the Winona Food Shelf, during a concert Saturday, April 21. Four bands from Cotter and two from WSHS performed before friends and families at the first “Rock to Stock.” Saint Mary’s University hosted the event, with the Phi Mu Alpha music fraternity providing sound and lighting services.

Sandra Burke, director of Winona Volunteer Services, accepted a check from Tim Olstad, a Cotter junior who helped organize the event.

SMU cleans up during Earth Week

Students and staff cleaned up one of SMU’s Adopt-A-Highway stretches on April 22 for Earth Week. Approximately 23 bags of trash were picked up along Highway 14.

Relay for Life results

Saint Mary’s had 13 teams for Relay for Life last weekend. As a university, participants raised $16,975.96, an average of $1305.84 per team.

Saint Mary’s had five teams in the top ten: 1, 3, 5, 6, and 7.

Of the 63 teams, the SMU staff team was the top team for donations with $2,374.55. The entire event raised $71,351 for the American Cancer Society.

SMU, research society in Japan to sign agreement

We will be signing a cultural and educational agreement between SMU and Ryukyu America Historical Research Society located in Okinawa, Japan. A group of six members will attend the ceremony on Friday, April 27, from 10-11 a.m. at the President’s Room.

Volunteer Committee events

A tentative schedule for future “Let’s Do Lunches” includes:

May 18 — “Let’s Do Ice Cream”
June 22 — “Let’s Do Ice Cream”
July 20 — “Let’s Do Ice Cream”

The 2nd Annual Spruce Up Winona — a volunteer effort with Winona State University and the Winona Tech School to help clean up non-profit organizations and local parks, school playgrounds and city blocks was held Wednesday, April 25.

Faculty, staff and students are joining together May 1 to clean up Gilmore Creek as part of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resource’s Adopt-a-River program. Volunteers will clean a 2-mile stretch of the creek surrounding our campus. The cleanup will run from 3 to 6 p.m. Materials and instructions will be given out at 3 p.m. near the Information Desk. Please call Deb Nahrgang at Ext. 6966 or e-mail dnahrgan@smumn.edu and sign up. Please also specify which hours you will be able to work.

Gloves, bags and water will be provided. Please wear comfortable clothing that can get wet and dirty.

Kendall and Friends put on concert today

Chris Kendall and Friends will perform 6 to 7 p.m. today, April 27, near The Pines picnic area. Kendall is vice president for Student Development. This is also a can and coin drive. Please bring non-parishable food item and/or pocket change (or more) to benefit the Catholic Worker House in Winona.

Jazz events*

The John Paulson Trio will perform 5:30 to 9 p.m. today, April 28, at Michael’s Restaurant in Rochester.

Heart and SOUL Row, Ride and Run Triathlon nears

The first Saint Mary’s Heart and SOUL Row, Ride and Run Triathlon will be held Sunday, April 29. The race will start at Lake Lodge, on East Lake in Winona, and will finish on the SMU campus.

Participants will row 2 miles, bike 14 miles and run 3.2 miles. Drawing for prizes will take place at the finish. For kayak and canoe rental information, contact the Office of Campus Ministry at Ext. 1643. Registration forms are available in the Office of Campus Ministry or online at smumn.edu/campusministry. All proceeds from the race will be used to fund future SOUL trips.

Great Summer Reads list, winner announced

The SMU community’s most-recommended Great Summer Read is the much-anticipated “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” by J.K. Rowling, which will be released on July 21, 2007. The winner of the drawing for a $25 Barnes & Noble gift card is Carlos Manriquez.

In total, students, faculty, and staff recommended 77 different titles comprising 26 nonfiction, 50 fiction and one play. Many of the recommended books are now available on the main-floor display at the Fitzgerald Library. For the complete list, go to www2.smumn.edu/deptpages/%7ewlibrary/lib%20web/lib_about/news/greatsummerreads.htm.

SMU to support MOPS moms walk

On Saturday, April 28, MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) will hold its annual fun-filled community event called “The Great Moms Walk.”

The purpose of the walk is to raise MOPS awareness, gather new and potential moms, and impact the community with a highly visible family fun-filled event. Funds raised will provide much-needed support for women with young children.

Saint Mary’s is helping to sponsor this event; Mireya Gravert, Department of Chemistry, is an event organizer.

SMU students participate in UN simulation*

Nine students in Dr. David Lynch’s American Foreign Policy course participated in the Arrowhead Model UN Simulation at Winona State University, April 12-14. The students represented Argentina, Bolivia and Colombia on various UN committees. There were approximately 225 students from more than 12 Midwestern universities at the conference. Lynch also helped run one committee during the simulation. The nine students taking part were Cullum Buetow-Staples, Jacob Fleming, Brett Kozlak, Ramy Mikhail, Ryan O’Connor, David Reckase, Joseph Shannon, Dan Smith and Eldon Vaselaar.

Bucknam, students to attend psychology conference*

On Saturday, April 28, Dr. Dan Bucknam will accompany four psychology majors to the Minnesota Undergraduate Research Conference, held at Saint Olaf College. Jenn Benson, Kasey Schultz, Sarah Windschitl, and Sarah Wollersheim will present their original research posters alongside nearly 150 other psychology students from the Midwest.

Reception for Moxness is May 2

A retirement reception in honor of Mary Moxness, Fitzgerald Library, will be held 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 2, at the McEnery Center. Please stop by to wish her well and make sure to sign her guest/memory book. Refreshments will be served.

Huegel to present on Tegrity*

Benjamin Huegel, assistant professor of business, will be presenting today, April 27, at the Minnesota Council of Accounting Educators annual conference in St. Cloud. The title of his presentation is, “Tegrity - Learning Technologies in SMU Classrooms.”

SMU, Tegrity wins bronze award*

Tegrity Campus 2.0 at Saint Mary’s University received a bronze award in the first global competition of high impact use of technology in learning by the IMS Global Learning Consortium (IMS GLC).
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Featuring the highest levels of innovation, adoption, and learning impact, the Learning Impact Awards (aka Lias) symbolize the use of technology for support or enhancement of learning.

Nominations with superior measurable impact on faculty/teacher adoption, student achievement, and ease of implementation earned the finalist slots.

IMS GLC is a global, nonprofit, member consortium that provides leadership in shaping and growing the learning and educational technology industries through collaborative support of standards, innovation, best practice and recognition of superior learning impact.

Children’s choirs to sing with Christian Crossings Sunday

The 52-member Cathedral Children’s Choirs will join local music group, Christian Crossings, for a free concert on Sunday, April 29, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Church. Children from Grades two and three (the “Cherubs”) up to Grades four through eight (the “Choristers”) will join this trio from the Lewiston area on select musical numbers.
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Christian Crossings CDs will be on sale and all proceeds will benefit the Cathedral Children’s Choirs in the purchase of new music, performance trips and general expenses. The concert is free and open to the public; free-will donations will be accepted.

The concert is sponsored by Catholic Aid Association, which is providing a grant of up to $1,000 for the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Children’s Choirs. For more information, contact Jim Ballard, director of music, Cathedral Elementary, at 454-1505 or go online: www.christiancrossings.org

Only one more ‘Campus Notes’

This is a reminder that there is only one more ‘Campus Notes’ this school year. Look ahead on your calendars. The deadline for the May 4 issue is Wednesday, May 2.