Academic Awards presented

Jill Spitzmueller

David Spriegel

Judy Myers with David Dean, Jacob Rivet and Thomas Conry

Saint Mary’s University recognized outstanding senior students Thursday, April 276, at the annual Senior Academic Honors Banquet. 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) — Benjamin Ludescher

American Chemical Society Award (chemistry award) — Jill Spitzmueller

Kevin Martineau Award (business award)  — Yu Wang

Outstanding Accounting Major (business award) — Brian Dillon

Outstanding International Business Student (business award) — Anne Drazkowski

Outstanding Entrepreneurship Student (business award) — Sheree Haslemore

Outstanding Human Resource Management Student (business award) — Samantha Otto

Outstanding Sport Management Student (business award) — Thomas Healy

Outstanding Marketing Majors (business awards) — Amanda Gehrman and Joseph Rysavy

Saint Thomas Aquinas Award for Excellence (philosophy award) — Christopher Sindelar

Father Andrew Fabian Scholarship (philosophy award) — Michael Pica

Gerald Sullivan Outstanding Theatre Major Award (theatre award) — Thomas Conry

Grove Bree Holman Award (theatre award) — Jacob Rivet

Michael G. Flanagan Ghost Light Award (theatre award) — David Dean

Brother Leo Northam Awards (math awards) — Long Chen, Justyna Kujtkowska and Yuanyuan (Jasmine) Wang

Future Alumni Committee Scholarship — Jill Spitzmueller

Lasallian Honors Program Outstanding Senior Awards — Samantha Dahlstrom and Thomas Conry

Delta Epsilon Sigma National Student Award — Megan Hellman

History Department Distinction Award and Brother J. Robert Lane Historical Essay Award — David Spriegel

Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute for Women — Mary Glenski, Maria Pechacek and Amy Streit

Psychology Department Distinction Awards — Morgan Carlson, Bethany Hastings, Kelsi Addabbo, Allison Johnson, Jamie Jones and Cassandra Berning

Senior art show runs through May 12

Saint Mary’s seniors will display their artwork in the show “Boundaries Fade” through May 12 in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

The artists, displaying April 21 to May 12, include: Michael Blanda, Ashley Blum, Keisha Harcey, Maria Ann Harris, Mary Karnick, Sarah Marie Kennedy, Laura Polzin, Morgan Stock, Jim Tandberg and Margaret Villaume.

The galleries — free and open to the public — will be open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

MCA spring classes begin May 7

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts spring dance, music, and visual art classes begin Monday, May 7, at the Valéncia Arts Center, 1164 West 10th St.

A variety of classes are available for children and adults, ranging from recreation classes to pre-professional training.

The MCA Visual Art division offers Drawing the Still Life, a class for teen and adults to explore the art of drawing still life using versatile charcoal techniques.

Dance division spring offerings include: Creative Movement, Modern I-II, Contemporary Dance Workshops, Nia, Tap and Jazz for Kids, National Tap and Dance Workshops for Tap II and Tap III-IV, Junior Hip Hop, Hip Hop I-II, Boys Dance Technique, Pre Ballet, Pre Ballet I, Ballet II, Ballet III-IV, Classical Package for Ballet V, VI, VII and a new Dance for Skaters class.

Music division offerings include: Creative Music and Movement, Music Explorers, Musicman Junior, Flute Choir I, Flute Choir II as well as private lesson instruction in flute, clarinet, saxophone, violin, cello, piano, guitar, banjo, mandolin, and voice.

Creative Music and Movement, an introduction to the music and dance class setting through voice, song, rhythm, and dance for 3- and 4-years-olds is offered in collaboration with the MCA dance and music divisions. This class is offered opposite of the Adult fitness class Nia. Nia offers a dynamic blend of dance arts, martial arts and healing arts using music, movement, and self-expression to help students discover optimum health of body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Parents can enjoy a great workout while their child enjoys Creative Music and Movement, Tuesdays, May 8, 15, 22, June 5, 12, and 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Adults who have a child enrolled in an MCA spring or summer class or camp can participate in a class of their own tuition-free through the MCA Adult Arts Wellness program. Adult classes choices for spring include: Nia, Teen and Adult Tap and Jazz, Flute Choir I, Flute Choir II, and Drawing the Still Life. Additional summer course offers for adults include Guitar Class I, Guitar Class II, Nia, Power Piyo, Clogging I, Clogging II, Teen and Adult Ballet, and Teen and Adult Irish Dance.

Class days, times, and tuition vary. Financial need-based scholarships are available. For a brochure and complete listing, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org or call Ext. 5500. Interested students may registration online, by mail, or in person at MCA’s Valéncia Arts Center.

This activity is made possible in part by a grant provided by the Minnesota State Arts Board, through an appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature from the Minnesota arts and cultural heritage fund with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on Nov. 4, 2008. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

Big, Little Pals host end-of-the-year picnic

Big and Little Pals tested their skills on the inflatables.

A Big and Little Pal having fun

The Big and Little Pals Organization at Saint Mary’s enjoyed an end-of-the-year picnic last week. About 50 SMU students meet once a week with at-risk second- through fifth-graders from the Winona community. On April 26, their “little pals” joined them on campus for a barbecue, inflatable toys and games. The program is a collaboration with Winona Area Public Schools. Throughout the year, SMU students develop a positive relationship with their pals by nurturing their academic, social and emotional stability.

‘Campus Notes’ to resume in June

“Campus Notes” will return in mid-June and come out every other week to update the SMU community on all the news and events that occur on campus during the summer. Keep in mind that the Office of Marketing and Communication can help you promote events, speakers, awards or any other news throughout the summer. Contact Deb Nahrgang at Ext. 6966 or dnahrgan@smumn.edu.

‘Savin’ Grace’ Concert is May 12 in Rushford

Grace Place will host its annual “Savin' Grace Concert” — featuring the MPK Christian Celtic Band — from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 12, at Rushford-Peterson High School. Proceeds will be used for an emergency shelter in Winona.

Saint Mary's commencement ceremonies are May 12

On Saturday, May 12, the Winona campus will host two commencement ceremonies to mark the end of the academic year.

The undergraduate commencement will begin at 11 a.m. in the gymnasium. Student perspectives will be offered by this year’s Outstanding Male and Female Seniors Michael Mockler, son of John and Caroline Mockler of Dubuque, Iowa, and Regina Quandt, daughter of Dan and Cathy Quandt of Minneapolis, Minn.

The Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs commencement will begin at 4 p.m. in the gymnasium. Along with the conferring of degrees, student perspectives will be offered by Cynthia Mueller, M.A. in Literacy Education, of Buffalo, Minn.; and Dr. Paul Rosenblum, M.A. in Pastoral Ministries, of Charleston, S.C. Additionally, Dr. Rosenblum will be presented with an Outstanding Graduate Final Paper Award.

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

Prior to the ceremonies, a Baccalaureate Mass will take place in Saint Thomas More Chapel at 8:30 a.m.

The Saint Mary’s Nairobi campus will host its commencement ceremony on April 28. The Twin Cities campus will conduct three summer commencement ceremonies on June 3.

Kirk returns from performing in Asia

Dr. Ned Kirk, chair of the Music Department, just returned from his third trip to Asia this year. In November he performed three concerts and gave masterclasses in southern China and Hong Kong. In March he met with administrators and faculty at both Xi’an Conservatory of Music and Northwest University in Xi’an, China, working to develop relationships between our schools. And, in April he participated in extensive rehearsals in Singapore which culminated in giving a concert that same week in Shenzhen, China with the international concert violinist, Qian Zhou.

DRC presents ‘Le Corsaire’ April 27, 28

The Saint Mary’s 2011-2012 performance season concludes with the Dance Repertory Company in “Le Corsaire,” today and Saturday, April 27-28, at Page Theatre.

For close to four decades, the Dance Repertory Company has delighted the Winona community with quality dance productions featuring local dancers in classical and contemporary works.

“Le Corsaire,” loosely based on a poem by Lord Byron, follows Medora, a beautiful slave girl, and Conrad, a dashing pirate, as they journey through a tapestry of captive maidens, rich sultans, swashbuckling abductions, and dramatic rescues, all culminating in a happy ending. Originally choreographed by Marius Petipa to music by Adolfe Adam, the ballet continues to delight audiences more than 150 years after its premiere.

Under the artistic direction of Tammy Schmidt, the DRC’s production features dancers who currently train at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts and Saint Mary’s, as well as community members. Dr. Gary Diomandes, Department of Theatre and Dance, is one of the performers.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 27, and 3 p.m. Saturday, April 28.

Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. Tickets are available at www.pagetheatre.org or by calling the SMU Performance Center at Ext. 1715.

For more information, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu or call Ext. 5500. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s.

Senior art show runs through May 12

Saint Mary’s seniors will display their artwork in the show “Boundaries Fade” through May 12 in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

The second group of artists, displaying April 21 to May 12, includes: Michael Blanda, Ashley Blum, Keisha Harcey, Maria Ann Harris, Mary Karnick, Sarah Marie Kennedy, Laura Polzin, Morgan Stock, Jim Tandberg and Margaret Villaume.

The galleries — free and open to the public — will be open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Row, Ride, Run Triathlon is this weekend

The annual Saint Mary’s “Row, Ride, Run Triathlon” will take place on Saturday, April 28, beginning at 9 a.m. at Lake Lodge in Winona and finishing on SMU’s Winona campus.

About 100 athletes from throughout the Midwest are expected to register for the race.

Participants will canoe or kayak a 2.5-mile loop around Lake Winona, then bike 14 miles from Lake Winona to the SMU campus. Once on campus, racers will run 3.1 miles through the bluffs surrounding the university.

Proceeds assist Serving Others United in Love (SOUL), a program of SMU’s Office of Campus Ministry. Through SOUL, students are able to connect with diverse communities by participating in national and international service trips.

For more information, visit www.smumn.edu/rowriderun or call Ext. 7268.

Organ students to present recital/hymn-sing

Saint Mary's junior Jordan Ranstrom of Warren, Minn., prepares for his performance on the Kilgen organ in Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels.

Five organ students from Saint Mary’s will present a recital/hymn-sing today, April 27, at 12:30 p.m. in the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels, located at Vila and Wabasha streets. Joshua Korver, Jacob Carlson, Jordan Ranstrom, Nathan Maskal and Gregory Bim-Merle will be featured on selections spanning traditional to contemporary periods of organ repertoire — from G.F. Handel to Marcel Dupré. The students will also lead the audience in several familiar hymns. Father Andrew Beerman, rector of Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, will give the invocation and benediction. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact A. Eric Heukeshoven at Ext. 7292 or eheukesh@smumn.edu.

160 students participate in ‘Spruce Up Winona Day’

In recognition of “Spruce Up Winona Day,” about 160 students helped out throughout the community on April 21. The group assisted the Habitat ReStore, Winona Area Humane Society, Winona Public Library, Winona Health, as well as several area churches and senior residences.

Choirs to perform April 28

The Saint Mary’s Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea, will present their Spring Concert on Saturday, April 28, at 7:30 p.m. at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels. The concert will also feature the Saint Mary’s Chamber Orchestra and organist Eric Heukeshoven. The performance will include works by Purcell, Bruckner, Egil Hovland, Stephen Hatfield, and Stephen Paulus.

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

Psychology symposium held April 19

The SMU Psychology Symposium was held The first session included research presentations made by students who collected data in the context of their collaborative labs and/or experimental psychology course. The second session consisted of formal research presentations made by graduating students in fulfillment of their senior thesis requirement. Thank go to everyone who participated and attended.

MCA to host free concert Monday at the library

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will present an informal music concert, Monday, April 30, at 5:15 p.m., in the Children’s Room of the Winona Public Library, 151 West 5th St.

This concert is free and open to the public. MCA’s Winona Area Youth Singers and small instrumental ensemble groups will perform. Students will feature folk, classical and multicultural pieces.

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts exists to provide quality arts education and performance by nurturing and encouraging artistic expression in children and adults. The MCA provides recreational to pre-professional performing opportunities, and its visual arts curriculum and programming are designed to provide physical and aesthetic benefits, heightened self-respect, discipline and confidence.

For more information about the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts upcoming classes, performances and programs, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu or call Ext. 5500.

20 books donated to De La Salle Language Institute

As a part of World Book Night April 23, Nancy Wiltgen '75, senior development director, presented 20 free copies of “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls to students at SMU’s De La Salle Language Institute. Wiltgen was just one of 25,000 volunteers who gave away half a million free books throughout 6,000 towns and cities across America on World Book Night, April 23.

Wiltgen was inspired to get involved in this program after working with an international student last year. The student told Wiltgen that she was interested in reading a good book in English that was not a textbook. “The Glass Castle” is one of Wiltgen’s favorites. For more information, go to www.worldbooknight.org.

Saint Mary’s announces next Page Series season

The 26th season of the Saint Mary’s Page Series is once again filled with music, dance, theatre, and family-friendly offerings from around the world! You don’t have to travel far for world-class performances. Season subscriptions go on sale May 15. Individual tickets go on sale Aug. 21.

As part of the yearlong celebration of Saint Mary’s University Centennial, the Page Series is pleased to include artists with connections to Saint Mary’s and to Winona in this year’s programming.

Purchase tickets to three or more events to receive a 10 percent discount for new subscribers; returning 2011-12 subscribers receive 25 percent off the total order. Subscribers also have exchange privileges and guaranteed seating choice.

To order, go online to www.pagetheatre.org or call the box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Summer box office hours, May 16-July 29, are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The 2012-2013 Page Series

• Thursday, Sept. 20, 7:30 p.m.
Tibetan Monks from the Drepung Loseling Monastery
Sacred dance, music and sand mandala painting
Tickets: $22 for adults, $18 for seniors and students

• Tuesday, Oct. 9, 6:30 p.m.
“Bunnicula” with TheatreworksUSA
A Bunny-Tale of Mystery
Tickets: $12 for adults, $5 for seniors and students

• Friday, Oct. 19, 7:30 p.m.
Simone Perrin and Dan Chouinard
Sweet singing, accordion playing
Tickets: $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students

• Thursday, Jan. 31, 6:30 p.m.
The Accidental Hero
World War II Czech-American story
Tickets: $12 for adults, $5 for seniors and students

• Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013, 7:30 p.m.
The Hornheads w/John Paulson’s Big Band Project
Jazz and more jazz
Tickets: $18 for adults, $15 for seniors and students

• Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
“The Gruffalo” by Tall Stories
One scary forest monster
Tickets: $12 for adults, $5 for seniors and students

• Saturday, March 16, 2013, 7:30 p.m.
Eileen Ivers
Irish-American Celtic music
Tickets: $22 for adults, $18 for seniors and students

‘Off The Page’

“Off The Page” events feature individually priced events that take place in venues around town. Tickets go on sale Tuesday, Aug. 21. This year’s “Off the Page” performances take place at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum.

• Thursday, Dec. 20, 7:30 p.m.
Vanessa Trouble
Jazz with a holiday twist
Tickets: $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and students

• Thursday, March 7, 2013, 7:30 p.m.
Alison Scott
Dynamite vocals
Tickets: $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and students

* PLEASE NOTE: All tickets (individual and subscription) are subject to a $1 processing fee.

* Student price includes ages 4 and older. $10 student rush tickets may be available for some events 20 minutes before curtain.

Science students attend convention

Fourteen biology students and one chemistry student attended the Minnesota Academy of Science (MAS) /NC-3 Beta Beta Beta convention that was at Saint Olaf College on April 21, in Northfield, Minn.

Two students were recognized for their paper presentations by being honored with the Beta Beta Beta Frank G. Brook Awards for best paper (oral) presentation. The students were: second place: Cassandra Hulett, “Age, Size, Distribution and Abundance of Green Sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus) in Gilmore Creek” (Dr. Phil Cochran, advisor); and third place: Danielle Strebel, “Anti-anxiety and Anti-depressant Effects of Boswellia Extract GNG On Mus Musculus” (Dr. Debra Martin, advisor).

Additionally, an SMU student won the best paper presentation for her section by MAS: Grace A. Christensen, “The Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Glycerol Monolaurate on TPA-Induced Inflammation in Mus Musculus” (Dr. Jeanne Minnerath, advisor).

Also attending from SMU were Alex Braun, “The Effects of Atrazine on BMP4 Protein Levels in Liver and Serum Isolate from  Phasianus Colchisus and Gallus Gallus” (Dr. Debra Martin, advisor); Samantha Dahlstrom, “The Effects of Glycerol Monolaurate on TNF-α Production in J774A.1 Murine Macrophage Cells” (Dr. Jeanne Minnerath, advisor); Paul Dettling, “The Effect on Body Composition by the Administration of Yohimbine-HCL to Mus Musculus” (Dr. Randy Krainock, advisor); Kristine Guse, “The In-uteral Effects of Atrazine on the Offspring of Female Mus Musculus Exposed During Pregnancy” (Dr. Debra Martin advisor); Erika Hurley, “The  Effects of Atrazine on Reproductive Organs of Phasianus Colchicus” (Dr. Debra Martin, advisor); Meghan Jensen, “Survey of Fossils Found in Francis Creek Shale Near Mazon Creek, Illinois” (Dr. Phil Cochran, advisor); Paige Jenson, “Development of an Immunological Laboratory Exercise Measuring Cell Proliferation and Cytokine Production” (Jeanne Minnerath, advisor); Michael Mockler, “Distribution of Northern Brook Lamphrey (Ichthyomyzon fossor) in the Upper Iowa River Drainage” (Dr. Phil Cochran, advisor); Felicia Schneider, “The Susceptibility of Staphylococcus Aureus and Escherichia Coli to the Disinfectants Lysol, Thieves, Melaleuca Oil and Vinegar” (Dr. Jeanne Minnerath advisor); Jill Spitzmueller, “Liposomol Temozolomide for the Treatment of Brain Tumors” (B. Anderson and Z. Hilt, University of Kentucky, advisors); Lauren  Ulbrich and Margaret Conway, “The Antibacterial Effectiveness of Various Mouthwashes on Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Streptococcus Mutans on Toothbrushes”  (Dr. Jeanne Minnerath, advisor).

‘Campus Notes’ countdown

There is only one edition of “Campus Notes” left this academic year: May 4. Submissions are due Wednesday, May 2. “Campus Notes” will return in mid-June and come out every other week to update the SMU community on all the news and events that occur on campus during the summer.

‘Savin’ Grace’ Concert is May 12 in Rushford

Grace Place will host its annual “Savin' Grace Concert” — featuring the MPK Christian Celtic Band — from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 12, at Rushford-Peterson High School. Proceeds will be used for an emergency shelter in Winona.

Bluff Country Studio Art Tour is April 27-29

Monta May, Marketing and Communication, is just one of the artists featured in this year’s Bluff Country Studio Art Tour, scheduled for 10 am. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, April 27-29. For more information, go to www.bluffcountrystudioarttour.com.

Gaslight celebrates 50 years

In spring 1963, a Saint Mary’s musical tradition was born as the melodies of Gaslight first delighted audiences. On Saturday, April 21, the SMU alumni community will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Gaslight with a special alumni performance in the Toner Center Dining Room.

The alumni show will include performers of Gaslight from several generations.  Alumni performers will be from the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and recent years. A special highlight will be a performance from the original Oldie Moldie All-Stars.

A reception is planned at 6 p.m., and the alumni Gaslight will begin at 7 p.m.

This year’s student Performances of Gaslight are 8 and 10:30 p.m. today, Friday, April 20, and 10:30 p.m. Saturday, April 21. Tickets are $6 in advance or $7 at the door. Faculty and staff can receive one free ticket by contacting Lance Thompson, Ext. 1686 or ljthom01@smumn.edu.

Tickets are $15 for the alumni event. To pre-register, go to www.mysmumn.org/50thGaslight.

Senior Academic Honors Banquet is April 26

The annual Senior Academic Honors Banquet will be held on Thursday, April 26, beginning with a reception in the President’s Room at 6:30 p.m. Dinner and the awards program will follow at 7 p.m. in the Toner Student Center Dining Room.

Tickets are not required for faculty and staff but RSVPs should be made to Barb Schmidtknecht at Ext. 6678 or to bschmidt@smumn.edu by the end of the day today (Friday) so that there is ­an accurate count.

DRC presents ‘Le Corsaire’ April 27, 28

The Saint Mary’s 2011-2012 performance season concludes with the Dance Repertory Company in “Le Corsaire,” April 27-28 at Page Theatre.

For close to four decades, the Dance Repertory Company has delighted the Winona community with quality dance productions featuring local dancers in classical and contemporary works.

“Le Corsaire,” loosely based on a poem by Lord Byron, follows Medora, a beautiful slave girl, and Conrad, a dashing pirate, as they journey through a tapestry of captive maidens, rich sultans, swashbuckling abductions, and dramatic rescues, all culminating in a happy ending. Originally choreographed by Marius Petipa to music by Adolfe Adam, the ballet continues to delight audiences more than 150 years after its premiere.

Under the artistic direction of Tammy Schmidt, the DRC’s production features dancers who currently train at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts and Saint Mary’s, as well as community members. Gary Diomandes, Department of Theatre and Dance, is one of the performers.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 27, and 3 p.m. Saturday, April 28.

Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. Tickets are available at www.pagetheatre.org or by calling the SMU Performance Center at Ext. 1715.

For more information, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu or call Ext. 5500. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s.

Service awards presented to students, faculty, staff

Campus Ministry staff with the Volunteer Service Award recipients Stephanie Schaub and Megan Linder

Ann Merchlewitz was presented with the Brother Charlie Burke Award by Tim Gossen.

Campus Ministry staff with Brother James Miller Award recipients Madelynn Kettner and Jill Spitzmueller.

Saint Mary’s recognized outstanding students, faculty and staff Thursday, April 12, at the Student Life Awards Ceremony. Several awards were handed out to students who made a noticeable impact on student life at SMU. Awards included:

Brother Finbar McMullen Award (presented to an SMU community member who demonstrates him/herself to be an individual who unselfishly meets the needs of the undergraduate students of Saint Mary’s) — Tim Gossen, dean of students

Charlene “Char” Tjaden Outstanding Resident Assistant Award — John Soucheray

Club and Organization Advisor of the Year — Lance Thompson, assistant activities director

Organization of the Year — Open Mic Nite, accepted by Ben Scott

Intramural Official of the Year — Rachel Otten

Volunteer Service Award — Stephanie Schaub and Megan Linder

Outstanding Student Senator of the Year Award — Andy Bauer

Brother James Miller Award (presented to a student who has dedicated his/her college experience to promoting the legacy of Brother James Miller, spreading the compassion of God and continually serving the community) — Jill Spitzmueller and Madelynn Kettner

Student Service Award — Luis Escobar

Outdoor Leadership Recognition — Courtney Lee

Brother Charlie Burke Award (presented to a faculty or staff member who has made significant contributions to the entire Student Life Department. This individual has promoted the growth of the whole student through their exemplary standard of ethical service, dedication to creating developmental relationships, and their desire to promote lifelong learning) — Ann Merchlewitz, executive vice president and general counsel

Saint Benilde Award (presented to a student who reaches out to new members of the university community, is inclusive and inspiring and leads by being hospitable, open and accepting) — Amy Streit and Robert Rousseau

Leadership Certificate (presented to students who have completed the co-curricular program designed to give both emerging and advanced leaders the skills and knowledge to enhance his or her leadership development) — Riley Sinn, Julianne Bartosz, Morgan Carlson, Sara McNary, Abby Ross, Danielle Strebel, Chris Froelich, Mae Yang, Katherine Wall and Stephanie Schaub

Saint Mary’s senior art show runs through May 12

Saint Mary’s seniors will display their artwork in the show “Boundaries Fade” through May 12 in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

The second group of artists, displaying April 21 to May 12, includes: Michael Blanda, Ashley Blum, Keisha Harcey, Maria Ann Harris, Mary Karnick, Sarah Marie Kennedy, Laura Polzin, Morgan Stock, Jim Tandberg and Margaret Villaume.

The galleries — free and open to the public — will be open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Women Who Step Forward Conference planned

On Saturday, April 21, the second Women Who Step Forward Conference will take place at the SMU Event Center on the Minneapolis campus. This is a unique opportunity for women who are aspiring leaders who wish to learn the skills and mindsets that are essential to leadership.

Women Who Step Forward is a full-day leadership conference with international leaders who are sharing their time and talents with women who need it the most. This conference is funded by grants and sponsorships so that students may attend all sessions and meals for only $45.  For those that cannot afford this rate, scholarships are available.

Keynote speaker Marilyn Tam, former CEO of Aveda, former president of Reebok Apparel and Retail Group, and former vice president of Nike, believes in this mission of helping women further their careers and will be available to sign her books, “How to Use What You’ve Got to Get What You Want” as well as “Living the Life of Your Dreams.”

Julie Gilbert, former senior vice president of Best Buy and founder of WOLF Means Business, will open the day with inspiring remarks about her personal journey through the ranks of leadership and how she founded her own successful company here in Minnesota.

Participants will choose from the following breakout sessions:

• Networking
• Career Search Strategies
• Women in Entrepreneurship
• The Self Esteem & Confidence of a Leader
• The Power of Your Personal Brand
• Stress Management Through Yoga & Meditation
• Personal & Professional Finance
• Self Management

Please share this information with students, friends, faculty, and colleagues. For scholarship information, e-mail Anna Riechers at ariecher@smumn.edu.

For more information, go to www.smumn.edu/wwsf.

Register for Row, Ride, Run Triathlon

The annual Saint Mary’s “Row, Ride, Run Triathlon” will take place on Saturday, April 28, beginning at 9 a.m. at Lake Lodge in Winona and finishing on SMU’s Winona campus.

About 100 athletes from throughout the Midwest are expected to register for the race.

Participants will canoe or kayak a 2.5-mile loop around Lake Winona, then bike 14 miles from Lake Winona to the SMU campus. Once on campus, racers will run 3.1 miles through the bluffs surrounding the university.

Proceeds assist Serving Others United in Love (SOUL), a program of SMU’s Office of Campus Ministry. Through SOUL, students are able to connect with diverse communities by participating in national and international service trips.

Registration is $30 per individual or $60 per team. Teams can be made up of two, three or four members.

Participants must be 10 or older to row or run and 15 or older to bike. Awards will be presented to the top three fastest individuals and the top finishing team.

For more information, visit www.smumn.edu/rowriderun or call Ext. 7268.

Student History Research Symposium is April 21

Seniors from five area universities will present the results of their historical research at the Student History Research Symposium on Saturday, April 21, at Saint Mary’s. The event — free and open to the public — is sponsored by the history departments of Winona State University, Saint Mary’s, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Viterbo University, and the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. This year’s symposium will also feature a panel of seniors from Cotter High School.

In addition to the student presenters, Dr. J. Vincent Lowery, assistant professor of Humanistic Studies and History at the University of Wisconsin — Green Bay, will speak on “Looking for the Port City Prophet: A Historian’s Tale of Research and Revisionism.”

SMU and WSU have co-sponsored the research symposium for 10 years, with UW-La Crosse, Viterbo, and UW-Eau Claire joining in recent years. Each school asks senior history majors — and at Winona State, law and society majors — to write a senior thesis based on their original research of a historical question of their own choosing. In this way, the students actually do the work of historians, and in the process deepen their research, writing and speaking skills.

All symposium sessions will be held on the third and fourth floors of Saint Mary’s Hall. The symposium opens at 9 a.m. in Salvi Lecture Hall with a short welcoming ceremony and coffee. Students will present their research in concurrent panels of three or four students each. The first panel session starts at 9:15 a.m., the second at 10:45 a.m. Dr. Lowery’s talk will start around noon and will be accompanied by a complimentary lunch.

Biology symposium is April 20

The Biology Department will host the 39th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium in Biology on Friday, April 20, in the Adducci Science Center.

Students from Saint Mary’s Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics departments and students from colleges and universities in the tri-state region will present the results of their undergraduate research projects.  Registration is free and begins at 8 a.m. Presentations begin at 8:20 a.m.

The symposium presents all attendees the opportunity to experience the process of open collegial assessment of experimental findings, the opportunity to encounter discoveries from a variety of scientific disciplines, and an excellent environment to develop personal contacts and acquaintances.

Dan Keyler, professor of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy and Graduate School, will present the R.V. Kowles Lecture at 1:45 p.m. in Figliulo Recital Hall. Professor Keyler is a noted expert in the field of envenomations, actively publishing and presenting lectures on venomous snake bites. He serves as the director of Research for Animal Venom Research International and as a consultant to several groups including the Minnesota Poison Control System and the U.S. Armed Forces. The title of his presentation is “Toxicology & Snakes: Passion and a Career.”

The public is invited to attend the lecture, as well as the student presentations. Morning refreshments will be provided.

Athletics to host last ‘Let’s Do Lunch’

The final “Let’s Do Lunch” of the school year is planned for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 26, in the hockey arena lobby. The event, hosted by the Athletics Department and sponsored by the Volunteer Committee, will include grilled burgers and brats. Bring your appetites. A freewill offering will be taken, with funds benefiting CTIE in Nairobi.

SMU hosts forum about food

The last sustainability forum, hosted by Student Life, is Tuesday, April 24. The forums are intended to provide interested students, staff and faculty with the opportunity to learn more about the broad concepts of sustainability, discuss these issues as they relate to our daily lives both on and off campus, and then identify actions to contribute toward a more sustainable future.

• “Food, Compost and Recycling” — Tuesday, April 24, 7:30 p.m., Toner Student Center Lounge

Wasted food, starvation, organic movement, free-trade Friday, eat local, community gardens, food contamination, composting, foodies, and carbon-free diet will all be discussed. We are what we eat!

Saint Mary’s to participate in ‘Spruce Up Winona Day’

In recognition of “Spruce Up Winona Day,” the Volunteer Mentors group has invited Winona nonprofit agencies to submit requests for service. Saint Mary’s student volunteers will be available from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 21, to help local individuals, groups, churches and organizations. For more information, contact Chris McClead at Ext. 7268 or cmcclead@smumn.edu.

Next ‘Chat and Chow’ provides hands-on learning

The next “Chat & Chow 2.0” at the Fitzgerald Library will discuss “It’s all Happening at the Zoo.” The event, scheduled for noon to 1 p.m. Friday, April 20, will include a trip to the petting zoo. Participants will get an opportunity to “pet” some of the latest technologies — the Kindle Fire and Kindle Touch, the Nook, iPads, iPods, etc., as well as a variety of new apps.  Stop in for some real hands-on learning and lots of discussion about these technologies can be used in the classroom.

The event is hosted by the Fitzgerald Library, iT and Instructional Technology and will be held in the main lounge of the McEnery Center. Lunch is provided and an RSVP is appreciated but not necessary to Jason Spartz at jspartz@smumn.edu. Everyone is welcome.

Conservatory presents music division spring concert

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will present a Music Division Spring Concert, Monday, April 23, at 7 p.m. at Valéncia Arts Center Recital Hall, 1164 West 10th St.

The concert will feature the Winona Area Youth Singers (WAYS), Flutistry (the MCA Adult Flute Choir), and instrumental lesson students from MCA.

Admission is $10 at the door for adults (cash and checks only please). Financial-need based admission waivers are available. Admission is free for children and students ages 2-21.

WAYS members are students in grades four through eight from Winona and the surrounding areas. WAYS is dedicated to providing quality, artistic and educational vocal music experiences for all young people, regardless of their financial circumstances. WAYS was offered tuition-free to all students for the 2011-12 academic year. Lindsy O’Shea directs WAYS. The choir’s assistant director is Jessica Ingvalson and the accompanist is Camie Schneider. 

Flutistry, the MCA Flute Choir, is in the midst of a successful inaugural season. The choir performs for many community outreach events and benefits throughout Southeastern Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. Recent performances have included the Fantasy of Trees, a Women in Business luncheon and a Quilted Christmas. Upcoming events include a performance at the Upper Midwest Flute Association Flute Choir Concert on April 21 and a benefit performance for Project FINE at Signature’s Lounge on June 10. Amanda Moburg directs Flutistry.

Private lesson instrumental students also performing in the concert range in ages from 7 to 18.  Students will present clarinet, flute and piano works. MCA Music Division Instructors featuring students in the concert include Amanda Moburg and Markiese Russell.

MCA Music Division Spring Concert performers include: Ryan Ortega, Miranda Ruben, Erin Walters and Samantha Wirkus; Flutistry members Jessica Bouska, Heidi Bryant, Carly Eggert, Janet Heukeshoven, Elsbeth Krumholz, Mandy Moburg and Bob Ogren; and WAYS members Emma Bucknam, Mia Herrick, Caidan Hoarn, Jessica Kohner, Mackaylee Kohner, Raquela McManimon, Carol Miller, Taylor Sanchez, Vivienne Warner, Lucy Wilfahrt and Emily Wobig.  Additionally, this performance will feature Dr. Janet Heukeshoven on piccolo in a piece she has arranged for flute choir titled, “La Chasse.”

For more information about MCA’s Music Division or other arts programming, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu or call Ext. 5500. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s.

SMU Jazz Workshop Combos to present ‘Final Exam’ April 26

Two Saint Mary’s University jazz workshop combos, directed by Dr. John Paulson and A. Eric Heukeshoven, will present a free performance Thursday, April 26, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Acoustic Café, 77 Lafayette St. This event will feature student musicians who have been playing together all semester, and it will serve as their “final exam.”  The “Heavy Metal Jazz Combo” directed by Paulson, and Heukeshoven’s “Fabulous 5 + 1” group will play well-known jazz standards by composers like Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Miles Davis and Duke Ellington, plus original jazz works by Paulson and Heukeshoven.

Saint Mary’s University choirs to perform April 28

The Saint Mary’s Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea, will present their Spring Concert on Saturday, April 28, at 7:30 p.m. at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels. The concert will also feature the Saint Mary’s Chamber Orchestra and organist Eric Heukeshoven. The performance will include works by Purcell, Bruckner, Egil Hovland, Stephen Hatfield, and Stephen Paulus.

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

World Drum Ensemble to perform at MWMF

Come join the celebration as SMU’s World Drum Ensemble performs as part of the Mid-west Music Fest’s “Earth Day” celebration at Unity Park (east end of Lake Winona) on Saturday, April 21, at 4:15 p.m.  The WDE will be joined by RCTC’s ensemble and will lead the “parade” and finish with a smokin’ hot set of Brazilian sambas. Entertainment is scheduled all afternoon, beginning at 12:30 p.m.  In case of rain, events will move to the East End Rec Center.

Heukeshoven to conduct Honors High School Flute Choir

The MCA Flute Choir

Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, music faculty, will be serving as this year’s Upper Midwest Flute Association (UMFA) Honors Flute Choir director on Saturday, April 21. The auditioned ensemble, made up of 18 select student flutists, will rehearse Saturday morning and early afternoon, then perform at 3:30 p.m. at Mayflower Congregational Church, Minneapolis. In addition to the high school ensemble, a Twin Cities-based adult flute choir will perform, as well as Winona’s  Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts (MCA) Flute Choir, led by Mandy Moburg. The MCA Flute ensemble will also feature Heukeshoven performing “La Chasse,” a turn of the century solo feature which she arranged for piccolo and flute choir for this performance. The concert will conclude with a massed ensemble of flutists in attendance of Bizet's “Farandole” arranged for piccolo, c flutes, alto and bass flutes and tambourine.   For additional details, please contact Janet Heukeshoven at jheukesh@smumn.edu, or umfa.org.

May to display mosaics in Ben Miller Lobby

“Recent Mosaics — Explorations in Glass & Stone” by Monta May (Marketing and Communication) will be on display through May 11 in the Ben Miller Lobby of the Performance Center. For more information about May’s art and practice, visit www.montagaelmay.com. An artist reception is scheduled for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 26. For more information, call Ext. 1715.

Study Abroad photo contest winners announced

First place

Second place

Third place

Nikki Farmer

The top three photos from this year’s Study Abroad Photo Contest have been named: First Place — Nikki Farmer, “Man with the Chalk in his Hand,” Florence, Italy Second Place — Kacey Gavin, “Traditional Life,” Oslo, Norway Third Place — Marcy Mueller, “Kilt Rock,” Isle of Skye, Scotland

Congratulations to Lallaman family

Sarah and Joshua Lallaman (Biology Department) had a daughter, Elliott Christine, on Tuesday, April 10. The Saint Mary’s community extends its congratulations to the Lallaman family.

Sympathy to Edel family

Patricia Schlink, mother of Sue Edel (retired registrar) died Monday, April 16.  Patricia is also the mother of Gene Schlink ’67, mother-in-law of Robert Edel ’67, and grandmother of R. Scott Edel ’95. Services are Saturday, April 21, at Saint Anne Extended Healthcare. Visitation is at 9 a.m., with a rosary at 9:30 a.m., and a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. A card of condolence can be sent to the Edel family at 178 Tree Tops Lane, Winona, MN 55987. The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to the Edel family.

‘Campus Notes’ countdown

There are only two editions of “Campus Notes” left this academic year: April 27 and May 4. Submissions are due the Wednesday before each Friday’s edition. “Campus Notes” will return in mid-June and come out every other week to update the SMU community on all the news and events that occur on campus during the summer.

Paulson goes out on high note with jazz concert April 13

Dr. John Paulson, directing his final SMU jazz ensemble and jazz combo concert, will go out on a high note 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 13, in Page Theatre. Alumni and friends will join Paulson and SMU jazz students on stage for a special evening of jazz, camaraderie, and celebration.

Paulson has been the music industry program director and director of jazz studies at the university for the past 30 years. Several area alumni will appear with the 18-piece jazz ensemble and Jazz Combo I. Alumni who are slated to perform include guitarists Justin Bell ’99 and Andrew Lund ’85; saxophonists Ryan Ballanger ’10 and Bob Fisher ’97; bassist Joey Mazzuca ‘11; and trombonist Brian Zirngible ’98.

The Jazz Ensemble will play a wide range of jazz including Chick Corea’s “La Fiesta,” arranged by Michael Philip Mossman; Sammy Nestico’s “Basie Straight Ahead” from Count Basie’s book; the famous ballad “ ’Round Midnight,” arranged by Mike Tomaro and featuring Markeise Russell of Chicagoland on alto sax; and Gordon Goodwin’s rowdy tune “The Jazz Police.” Tenor saxophonist Ben Scott and trumpeter Tyler Ringeisen will team up as soloists on Duke Jordon’s “Jordu” and Eric Richard’s arrangement of Joe Henderson’s “Recorda Me.”

The 12-piece “Little Big Band,” aka Jazz Combo I, will pull tunes from the repertoire of pieces they performed on their week-long trip to Germany over spring break. Various alumni will sit in on their set, as well as with the jazz ensemble.

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

Dr. Paulson’s retirement plans include teaching saxophone, jazz improvisation and various other courses as an adjunct instructor, as well as focusing on his own groups and compositions. The year 2012-13 will mark the debut of the John Paulson Big Band with a concert, funded by a $5,000 grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council, Nov. 17, 2012 at the Winona Art Center. The John Paulson Big Band will also be featured with the Twin Cities-based Hornheads as part of the Page Series on Feb. 14, 2013. More information can be found at www.paulsonjazz.com and www.pagetheatre.org.

Hendrickson Forum 2012 features director of Wikimedia

This year’s Hendrickson Forum keynote speaker is Sue Gardner, executive director of the Wikimedia Foundation, who will speak about “Why Wikipedia Matters.”

The event is planned for 3:30 to 5 p.m. Thursday, April 19, in the SMU Event Center, 2540 Park Ave., Minneapolis. Registration begins at 3 p.m. Admission is $30 for the general public and $10 for students.

The moderator will be Fred de Sam Lazaro, director of the Under-Told Stories Project at Saint Mary’s University and a correspondent for PBS NewsHour.

With nearly a half billion readers, Wikipedia is the most popular encyclopedia in human history. Gardner will discuss how Wikipedia has changed global access to information and what the future might hold.

Pre-forum seminars will run from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. on “From Free to Fee and Other Info Age Challenges” and “InnovationLive: Can 3M’s Strategy Work for You?” For more information, go to www.smumn.edu/HendricksonForum.

Saint Mary’s senior art show runs through May 12

Saint Mary’s seniors will display their artwork in the show “Boundaries Fade” through May 12 in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

The first group of artists, displaying through April 18, includes: Sean Coleman, Sarah Grundhoefer, Laura Larson, Joel Reinhart, Stephen Ronchak, Chris Speltz and Cory Wessels.

The second group of artists, displaying April 21 to May 12, includes: Michael Blanda, Ashley Blum, Keisha Harcey, Maria Ann Harris, Mary Karnick, Sarah Marie Kennedy, Laura Polzin, Morgan Stock, Jim Tandberg and Margaret Villaume.

The galleries — free and open to the public — will be open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Women Who Step Forward Conference planned

On Saturday, April 21, the second Women Who Step Forward Conference will take place at the SMU Event Center on the Minneapolis campus. This is a unique opportunity for women who are aspiring leaders who wish to learn the skills and mindsets that are essential to leadership.

Women Who Step Forward is a full-day leadership conference with international leaders who are sharing their time and talents with women who need it the most. This conference is funded by grants and sponsorships so that students may attend all sessions and meals for only $45. For those that cannot afford this rate, scholarships are available.

Keynote speaker Marilyn Tam, former CEO of Aveda, former president of Reebok Apparel and Retail Group, and former vice president of Nike, believes in this mission of helping women further their careers and will be available to sign her books, “How to Use What You’ve Got to Get What You Want” as well as “Living the Life of Your Dreams.”

Julie Gilbert, former senior vice president of Best Buy and founder of WOLF Means Business, will open the day with inspiring remarks about her personal journey through the ranks of leadership and how she founded her own successful company here in Minnesota.
Participants will choose from the following breakout sessions:

• Networking
• Career Search Strategies
• Women in Entrepreneurship
• The Self Esteem & Confidence of a Leader
• The Power of Your Personal Brand
• Stress Management Through Yoga & Meditation
• Personal & Professional Finance
• Self Management

Please share this information with students, friends, faculty, and colleagues. For scholarship information, e-mail Anna Riechers at ariecher@smumn.edu.

For more information, go to www.smumn.edu/wwsf.

Register for Row, Ride, Run Triathlon

The annual Saint Mary’s “Row, Ride, Run Triathlon” will take place on Saturday, April 28, beginning at 9 a.m. at Lake Lodge in Winona and finishing on SMU’s Winona campus.

About 100 athletes from throughout the Midwest are expected to register for the race.

Participants will canoe or kayak a 2.5-mile loop around Lake Winona, then bike 14 miles from Lake Winona to the SMU campus. Once on campus, racers will run 3.1 miles through the bluffs surrounding the university.

Proceeds assist Serving Others United in Love (SOUL), a program of SMU’s Office of Campus Ministry. Through SOUL, students are able to connect with diverse communities by participating in national and international service trips.
Registration is $30 per individual or $60 per team. Teams can be made up of two, three or four members.

Participants must be 10 or older to row or run and 15 or older to bike. Awards will be presented to the top three fastest individuals and the top finishing team.

For more information, visit www.smumn.edu/rowriderun or call Ext. 7268.

Next Page Series production a retelling of ‘Peter & the Wolf’

For the final Page Series production of the season, the Pushcart Players will bring the classic tale of “Peter & The Wolf” to life Tuesday, April 17.

The show, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre, is an adaption of the traditional Russian folktale set to music by Sergei Prokofiev. While providing a charming introduction to the world of music and musical instruments, this enchanting tale is all about the adventure of growing up. Danger becomes reality and creative innovation becomes essential as young Peter meets the challenge of survival in the outside world.

This captivating tale, enriched by glorious music and visual effects, will win the hearts of all who view it, while offering a special moment in time for family audiences to share.

Pushcart Players is a dynamic ensemble of professional theatre artists, based in Verona, N.J., well known for tackling difficult issues and bringing them to life in an innovative, lively and accessible way. Recent credits include highly successful performance tours of the former Soviet Union and the Czech Republic, several performances at The White House, and both public and peer recognition through numerous awards for outstanding work in children’s theatre. Pushcart is now in its 38th season of producing theatre and arts-in-education programming for young viewers.

Tickets are $12 for adults, $5 for seniors and students and are available at the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Gathering for Peter

A Gathering for Peter is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at the Winona Public Library. Meet the instruments that act as important characters in “Peter and the Wolf.” Area musicians will play selections of the Prokofiev score to be featured during the Page Series performance April 17. Musicians include: Janet Heukeshoven, flute; Kelsey Engesser, clarinet; Jen Welch, bassoon; and Tove Wiggs, violin. Participants can win tickets to the April 17 performance.

Student History Research Symposium is April 21

Seniors from five area universities will present the results of their historical research at the Student History Research Symposium on Saturday, April 21, at Saint Mary’s. The event — free and open to the public — is sponsored by the history departments of Winona State University, Saint Mary’s, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Viterbo University, and the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. This year’s symposium will also feature a panel of seniors from Cotter High School.

In addition to the student presenters, Dr. J. Vincent Lowery, assistant professor of Humanistic Studies and History at the University of Wisconsin — Green Bay, will speak on “Looking for the Port City Prophet: A Historian’s Tale of Research and Revisionism.”

SMU and WSU have co-sponsored the research symposium for 10 years, with UW-La Crosse, Viterbo, and UW-Eau Claire joining in recent years. Each school asks senior history majors — and at Winona State, law and society majors — to write a senior thesis based on their original research of a historical question of their own choosing. In this way, the students actually do the work of historians, and in the process deepen their research, writing and speaking skills.

All symposium sessions will be held on the third and fourth floors of Saint Mary’s Hall. The symposium opens at 9 a.m. in Salvi Lecture Hall with a short welcoming ceremony and coffee. Students will present their research in concurrent panels of three or four students each. The first panel session starts at 9:15 a.m., the second at 10:45 a.m. Dr. Lowery’s talk will start around noon and will be accompanied by a complimentary lunch.

Gaslight celebrates 50 years

In spring 1963, a Saint Mary’s musical tradition was born as the melodies of Gaslight first delighted audiences. On April 21, the SMU alumni community will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Gaslight with a special alumni performance on Saturday, April 21, in the Toner Center Dining Room.

The alumni show will include performers of Gaslight from through several generations. Alumni performers will be from the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and recent years. A special highlight will be a performance from the original Oldie Moldie All-Stars.

A reception is planned at 6 p.m., and the alumni Gaslight will begin at 7 p.m.

This year’s student Performances of Gaslight are 8 and 10:30 p.m. Friday, April 20, and 10:30 p.m. Saturday, April 21. Tickets are $6 in advance or $7 at the door. Faculty and staff can receive one free ticket by contacting Lance Thompson, Ext. 1686 or ljthom01@smumn.edu.

Tickets are $15 for the alumni event. To register, go to www.mysmumn.org/50thGaslight.

DRC presents ‘Le Corsaire’ April 27, 28

The Saint Mary’s 2011-2012 performance season concludes with the Dance Repertory Company in “Le Corsaire,” April 27-28 at SMU’s Page Theatre.

For close to four decades, the Dance Repertory Company has delighted the Winona community with quality dance productions featuring local dancers in classical and contemporary works.

“Le Corsaire,” loosely based on a poem by Lord Byron, follows Medora, a beautiful slave girl, and Conrad, a dashing pirate, as they journey through a tapestry of captive maidens, rich sultans, swashbuckling abductions, and dramatic rescues, all culminating in a happy ending. Originally choreographed by Marius Petipa to music by Adolfe Adam, the ballet continues to delight audiences more than 150 years after its premiere.

Under the artistic direction of Tammy Schmidt, the DRC’s production features dancers who currently train at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts and Saint Mary’s, as well as community members. Gary Diomandes, Department of Theatre and Dance, is one of the performers.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 27, and 3 p.m. Saturday, April 28.

Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. Tickets are available on line at www.pagetheatre.org or by calling the SMU Performance Center at Ext. 1715.

The Dance Repertory Company is the pre-professional performance group of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts. Company members participate in rehearsals, technique classes and stage performances.

For more information, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu or call Ext. 5500. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s.

Biology symposium is April 20

The Biology Department will host the 39th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium in Biology on Friday, April 20, in the Adducci Science Center.

Students from Saint Mary’s Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics departments and students from colleges and universities in the tri-state region will present the results of their undergraduate research projects. Registration is free and begins at 8 a.m. Presentations begin at 8:20 a.m.

The symposium presents all attendees the opportunity to experience the process of open collegial assessment of experimental findings, the opportunity to encounter discoveries from a variety of scientific disciplines, and an excellent environment to develop personal contacts and acquaintances.

Dan Keyler, professor of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy and Graduate School, will present the R.V. Kowles Lecture at 1:45 p.m. in Figliulo Recital Hall. Professor Keyler is a noted expert in the field of envenomations, actively publishing and presenting lectures on venomous snake bites. He serves as the director of Research for Animal Venom Research International and as a consultant to several groups including the Minnesota Poison Control System and the U.S. Armed Forces. The title of his presentation is “Toxicology & Snakes: Passion and a Career.”

The public is invited to attend the lecture, as well as the student presentations, free of charge. Morning refreshments will be provided.

Athletics to host last ‘Let’s Do Lunch’

The final “Let’s Do Lunch” of the school year is planned for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 26, in the hockey arena lobby. The event, hosted by Athletics and sponsored by the Volunteer Committee, will include grilled burgers and brats. Bring your appetites. A freewill offering will be taken, with funds benefiting CTIE in Nairobi.

Stay tuned for information about “Let’s Do Ice Creams” in July and August!

CLIMB Theater to present ‘A Deeper Look’

CLIMB Theater will present the play, “A Deeper Look,” at 5 p.m. Monday, April 16, in Figliulo Recital Hall.

The event, co-sponsored by the First-Generation Initiative and the  Office of Campus Ministry, is open to the SMU community.

CLIMB is an acronym for Creative Learning Ideas for Mind and Body. The goal of the group is to make audiences aware of attitudes towards others. Words used to describe this play have been “awesome, powerful, amazing, surprising, subversive, poignant, thought-provoking, fabulous and moving.”

CLIMB’s website states, “We enter the stage as African Americans, Asians, Native Americans, Latinos and Caucasians. Because you see us, you naturally think you know us. Our personal stories, bravely told through monologues, scenes, music, dance and slides will take you on a journey of deeper understanding — not just of us, but of yourself.”

A discussion will follow the performance.

Senior Academic Honors Banquet is April 26

The annual Senior Academic Honors Banquet will be held on Thursday, April 26, beginning with a reception in the President’s Room at 6:30 p.m. Dinner and the awards program will follow at 7 p.m. in the Toner Center Dining Room.

Tickets are not required for faculty and staff but RSVPs should be made to Barb Schmidtknecht at Ext. 6678 or to bschmidt@smumn.edu by April 19.

Benefactor Recognition Dinner to honor philanthropic partners

On Saturday, April 14, the university will honor its philanthropic partners at the annual Benefactor Recognition reception and dinner to be held on the Winona campus. The event, by invitation only, celebrates the generosity shown to Saint Mary’s and provides an opportunity for student and benefactor interaction. This year’s theme, “Celebrating a Century of Philanthropy,” was chosen in commemoration of the launch of Saint Mary’s yearlong Centennial celebration.

Betty Kabara and the late Jon Kabara ’48 will be honored with the first SMU Heritage Award for their transformational giving to the university.

The ever-popular Oldie Moldies will provide the evening’s entertainment. For more information, contact Vickie Cada, Ext. 7000, or vcada@smumn.edu.

SMU hosts sustainability forums

The last sustainability forum, hosted by Student Life, is Tuesday, April 24. The forums are intended to provide interested students, staff and faculty with the opportunity to learn more about the broad concepts of sustainability, discuss these issues as they relate to our daily lives both on and off campus, and then identify actions to contribute toward a more sustainable future.

• “Water” — Tuesday, April 24, 7:30 p.m., Toner Student Center Lounge

If today the issue is oil, then tomorrow the issue will be water. Whether gathered in your reusable container, flowing down the Mississippi River, pumped from the ground, or falling from the sky, water is at the core of all life on earth and we can’t take it for granted.

Saint Mary’s to participate in ‘Spruce Up Winona Day’

In recognition of “Spruce Up Winona Day,” the Volunteer Mentors group has invited Winona nonprofit agencies to submit requests for service.

Saint Mary’s University student volunteers will be available from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 21, to help local individuals, groups, churches and organizations.

For more information, contact Chris McClead at Ext. 7268 or cmcclead@smumn.edu.

APO induction ceremony held March 25

The APO (national theatre honors fraternity) induction was held Sunday, March 25. New inductees include Allie Kriz, Julie Frederickson, Lydia Munroe, Katie Sapper, Darrell Fair and Greg Freeman.

Theatre students were joined by faculty for a photo.

Common Threads Clothing Drive continues

The annual Common Threads Clothing Drive will continue 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, April 13, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. tomorrow, April 14, in the Toner Student Center game room. The event is hosted by the Peace & Justice group.

Next ‘Chat and Chow’ provides hands-on learning

The next “Chat & Chow 2.0” at the Fitzgerald Library will discuss “It’s all Happening at the Zoo.” The event, scheduled for noon to 1 p.m. Friday, April 20, will include a trip to the petting zoo. Participants will get an opportunity to “pet” some of the latest technologies — the Kindle Fire and Kindle Touch, the Nook, iPads, iPods, etc., as well as a variety of new apps. Stop in for some real hands-on learning and lots of discussion about these technologies can be used in the classroom.

The event is hosted by the Fitzgerald Library, iT and Instructional Technology and will be held in the main lounge of the McEnery Center. Lunch is provided and an RSVP is appreciated but not necessary to Jason Spartz at jspartz@smumn.edu. Everyone is welcome.

Other upcoming April events

• Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts Music Division Spring Concert, 7 p.m. Monday, April 23, at the Valéncia Arts Center Recital Hall; $10 for adults, free to youth and students (at the door). The concert features MCA’s Winona Area Youth Singers (WAYS), the MCA Flute Choir and instrumental music division students.

• Spring Choirs Concert, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 28, Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels; tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students.

Psi Chi inducts new members, elects officers

The SMU Chapter of Psi Chi (International Honor Society in Psychology) inducted new members on April 3. New members include Julie Pierce, Jackie Jones, Ellie Niedbala, Jena Rice, Dr. Mario Casa de Calvo, Lexi Assimos, Bridget Ryan, Kelsey Brekke, Sophie Harrison, and Nora Gilson (not pictured). Congratulations to the new and returning members.
New officers will be Cathie Rennie (president), Megan Leisen (vice president), and Katie Smith (secretary). Current officers who will graduate in May include Bethany Hastings (president), Cassie Berning (vice president), and Kelsi Addabbo (secretary).

Employee Giving Campaign a success

Getting together at the Home Run celebration

“Thank you to everyone for making this year’s Employee Giving Campaign a success. We achieved 57 percent participation within our community, raising $74,700. This is a great testament to the dedication of our colleagues here at Saint Mary’s! In addition, we experienced an 84 percent increase in the number of colleagues enrolling in payroll deduction with 24 percent of those already enrolled, increasing their payroll deduction. To top it off, 66 colleagues were encouraged to become new donors over last year.

“Thank you to the following Employee Giving Campaign volunteers on the Winona campus: Sarah Bearbower (IT), Erin Mae Clark (Humanities), Jessica de La Rosa (Admissions), Gary Diomandes (Theater), Brendan Dolan (Residence Life), Barry Drazkowski (GIS), Paul Fox (Maintenance), Melissa Gordon (Academic Services), Tim Gossen (Student Life), Laurie Haase (Business Office), Todd Iverson (Mathematics and the Faculty Scholarship Committee), Derek Jackson (Business), David Jackson (Education), Jackie Killian (Business Office), Josh Lallaman (Sciences), Neil Leibundguth (Admissions), Bill Moore (Athletics), Laura Oanes (Library), Roger Peckover (M.A. Education), Joy Rockwell (Admissions), Lance Thompson (Student Activities), Lisa Truax (Art and Design) and Ryan Wockenfus (Admissions). Without the help of these volunteers, the campaign would not have been as successful!

“In addition to thanking the volunteers and community members, Development would like to thank Chartwells for sponsoring food and beverages, as well as the “Give a Little, Get a Latte” promotion. Those who gave a gift during the fiscal year will be receiving a voucher to enjoy a latte at Saint Mary’s Mugby Junction in the coming week.

“As a reminder, if you were unable to participate in this year’s Employee Giving Campaign, it’s not too late. The fiscal year runs until May 31, 2012. If you would like to give a gift or sign up for payroll deduction, please do so at www.smumn.edu/employeegiftform.” — Jennifer Teske, associate director, Saint Mary’s Fund

Luedtke and Sorvaags present at conference

Drs. Melissa Luedtke, Karen Sorvaag, and Scott Sorvaag presented on authentic assessment in standardized environments at the 2012 ASCD Annual Conference in Philadelphia on March 24. Educators from K12 and higher education from Central America, Canada, and across the U.S. attended the session. Research, best practices, and highlights from K12 educators in the area were highlighted in the presentation. This year’s conference was attended by more than 8,000 educators from 35 countries.  

ASCD, formerly the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, is an educational leadership organization dedicated to advancing the best practices and policies for the success of every learner. ASCD has 160,000 members in 148 countries who are professional educators from all levels and subject areas.

Fox presents paper

Mary Catherine Fox, Ph.D., professor of interdisciplinary studies, recently presented a paper at the 18th annual conference of The Association for Core Texts and Courses on Friday, March 30, in Milwaukee. The theme of this year’s conference was “Liberal Arts Education and the World: Inquiring into, Preparing for, and Living in the Real World through Core Texts.”

Fox’s paper, “Occupy Tocqueville: A Primer for Our Time” both proposed a pedagogy for teaching Tocqueville, as well as citing the work of seniors enrolled in the Capstone course of the Lasallian Core Traditions curriculum to address the conference theme.

May to display mosaics in Ben Miller Lobby

“Recent Mosaics — Explorations in Glass & Stone" by Monta May (Marketing and Communication) will be on display through May 11 in the Ben Miller Lobby of the Performance Center.

For more information about May’s art and practice, visit www.montagaelmay.com.

An artist reception is scheduled for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 26. For more information, call Ext. 1715.

Kowles to give presentation at Winona State University

Dr. Dick Kowles, professor emeritus in Biology, will give a presentation at Winona State University today, Friday, April 13.  The topic of his talk is “The Fountain of Youth — Possible or Not.”  Kowles will discuss the possibilities, which is a segment of his book, “The Wonder of Genetics.”

Congratulations to Wangberg family

Aaron and Robyn (Physics Department) Wangberg had a daughter, Cora Louise, on Wednesday, March 28. The Saint Mary’s community congratulates the Wangberg family.

Sympathy to Bouler family

Robert William Hayes, father-in-law of Steven Bouler (Theatre & Dance Department) died Tuesday, April 3. A note of condolence can be sent to Steve and Liz Bouler at Campus Box 1433. The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to the Bouler family.

‘Campus Notes’ countdown

There are only three editions of “Campus Notes” left this academic year: April 20, April 27 and May 4. Submissions are due the Wednesday before each Friday’s edition. “Campus Notes” will return in mid-June and come out every other week to update the SMU community on all the news and events that occur on campus during the summer.