Season’s Greetings!

Final exams are over and papers are handed in, and our students have returned home for rest and rejuvenation and to spend the joyous Christmas season with family. In this communication I want to show you some of the wonderful things our students have achieved recently, and give you a sense of the positive impact they make on campus life and on the larger community. Here are just a few snapshots from the fall semester.

New Living Learning Communities engage first-year students outside of class

After a successful pilot program last year, this fall Saint Edward’s Hall became the Living Learning Center with four new Living Learning Communities: Arts Alive, Well Inc., Global Faith, and Wide World and Sports. All of the themed groups strive to build a community with new students who have common goals and a desire to be engaged outside of the classroom. The LLCs help students both fit in and stand out as they begin their college careers.

Living Learning Communities are collaborations between residence life staff and academics that help students connect and grow during their first year at college. The primary focus is to create an environment that supports the educational mission of the university, by providing students with out-of-class opportunities to participate in social, cultural, recreational, academic and community service programs.

Scholarships help students attend prestigious computing conference

Computer science professor Rob Gordon with Katarzyna Plawiak, Saron Yifru, Marta Aleszewicz and Maria Glenski.

Four of our students attended the prestigious Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing from Oct. 2-5 in Minneapolis. The annual conference brings the research and career interests of women in computing to the forefront. Attending were Marta Aleszewicz, a junior computer science software and mathematics major from Poland; Katarzyna Plawiak, a sophomore computer science and international business major from Poland; Saron Yifru, a sophomore computer science major from Ethiopia; and Maria Glenski, a senior mathematics major from Pequot Lakes, Minn.

The Grace Hopper Celebration, the world’s largest gathering of women in computing, provided our students with excellent educational and networking opportunities. Glenski received a scholarship to attend from the National Science Foundation; Aleszewicz received a scholarship from Amazon; Yifru received a scholarship from Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology; and Plawiak was funded by the SMU Math and Computer Science Department.

Cross country runner honored by MIAC both as athlete and student

Saint Mary’s athletes compete in the NCAA Division III, where there is an emphasis on excellence in competition as well as academics, leadership and service. One of our athletes, Katie Stolz, was honored with the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference’s prestigious new Elite 22 Award for women’s cross country.

The Elite 22 Award recognizes just one student-athlete in each sport by honoring those who have reached the pinnacle of competition at the conference championship level, while also achieving the highest academic standard among their peer athletes. Stolz ran a school record time and placed 11th at the recent MIAC Championships, earning all-conference honors. A junior biology major, she is also sporting a 4.0 GPA.

New opportunities for study abroad

Students on a study abroad trip to Italy last summer, led by faculty Preston Lawing and Rob McColl.

Three new faculty-led study abroad programs offer attractive and convenient international experiences. Students can study a specific disciplinary focus and country/region during spring semester within a 3-credit course, and then travel with a faculty member for roughly two weeks shortly after commencement.

The short-term programs connect classroom learning to the experience abroad. They are ideal for students who can’t spend a full semester abroad due to time or cost considerations. And they don’t interfere with athletics or summer jobs and internships. The course “Topics: Chinese Business and Culture” will culminate in a trip to China; “Urban Studies in Buenos Aires Culture” leads up to a trip to the capital city of Argentina; and “Literature on Location” will end in a literary tour to sites in England.

More information is online at www.smumn.edu/studyabroad.

Malotka gains field research experience with snakes, lampreys

Senior environmental biology major Scott Malotka has found plenty of opportunities to work with professors in field research. Last summer, Malotka and Dr. Phil Cochran performed radio-tracking of bullsnakes for the Minnesota DNR at the Weaver Dunes north of Winona. This fall, Malotka earned internship credit with the biology department for processing the collected data. The project will contribute to a greater understanding of the snakes’ activity patterns and use of habitat throughout the year.

Malotka also accompanied Dr. Cochran to Indiana to collect data on chestnut lampreys for Trout Unlimited, and he was hired for the summer by Saint Mary’s Geospatial Services division — yet another way for a student to gain professional experience.

Aleszewicz interns at Fastenal, one of the world’s leading industrial suppliers

Marta Aleszewicz interned for the past year at Fastenal, North America’s largest fastener distributor and one of the world’s leading full-line industrial product suppliers. Aleszewicz said she knew she could gain great experience from the Winona company with more than 2,600 locations around the world and a well-known and respected global reputation.

Aleszewicz is a computer science and mathematics major from Poland. Her work at Fastenal enhanced her problem-solving and programming skills, and she put into practice Java language and design patterns she knew from college classes.

Judge Warner presides over pre-law students’ mock trial

Minnesota Second Judicial District Chief Judge (and 1981 Saint Mary’s University alum) Teresa (Schultz) Warner presided over the annual Saint Mary’s Mock Trial on Nov. 21. In this unique learning opportunity, pre-law students acted as the attorneys in a hotly contested case, which mirrored an actual trial. Students also participated as jurors and witnesses. Hosted by the business and social science departments, the mock trial gave pre-law students the opportunity to participate in a litigated case and get trial experience.

Judge Warner also spoke to Saint Mary’s classes the next day. Appointed by Gov. Arne Carlson in 1998, she serves as the chief judge of the Second Judicial District (Ramsey County).

PR/Business Club members meet with pros

The Public Relations/Business Club attended the Public Relations Society of America “PR with the Pros” event on Nov. 13 at the Cambria Gallery in Minneapolis. The students learned about various communications-related jobs from speakers representing a variety of corporate, educational and agency organizations. One of the panelists was 1986 SMU alum Greg Zimprich (shown in front, center), senior vice president of agency operations and strategic insights at Kohnstamm Communications in St. Paul.

Events help undecided majors find a path

Students had an opportunity Oct. 22 to explore majors at a new fair led by students for students, mostly freshmen and sophomores. The fair was geared toward students who are not happy about their majors, are undecided majors, are trying to choose a minor, or are just first-year students looking for information.

Sixty-five student representatives from all majors participated. They were recommended by their department chairs as individuals who could best answer questions about their majors, their college experiences and their career plans. This event and an additional majors retreat are part of iPath, a program for undecided students hosted by the Student Success Center.

Students provide a Taste of Saudi Arabia

International students add cultural — and culinary — variety to the Winona campus. In October, students at the De La Salle Language Institute and the Center for International Students sponsored the “Taste of Saudi Arabia” for the campus community. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for our students, faculty and staff to broaden their global and multicultural perspective.

Approximately 100 community members enjoyed Arabic food, music, dancing and cultural displays presented by students from Saudi Arabia with the assistance of DLI and Center staff. The event was the inspiration of our international student body, wanting to support the rebuilding efforts of the Winona Islamic Center which was destroyed by fire. “Taste of Saudi Arabia” raised $700 for the rebuilding fund.

Big and Little Pals hit the soccer pitch

The Saint Mary’s soccer teams helped organize and run a special day of fun and games on the soccer field for Winona youth. The fall soccer mini-camp was sponsored by SMU’s Big and Little Pals program, which matches college students with at-risk second- through fifth-graders from Jefferson Elementary School. About 50 Saint Mary’s students participate in the Campus Ministry service program in collaboration with Winona Area Public Schools. The Big Pals develop positive relationships with their Little Pals through activities and by nurturing their academic, social and emotional stability.

Legacy families honored at special Family Weekend dinner and reception

Celebrating their Saint Mary’s connections, from left, were Tony Piscitiello ’69, senior advancement director; David Lunzer ’14; Greg Lunzer (seated); Brother John Grover ’65, information technology manager, and Mary Lunzer ’81.

It is common for multiple generations of families to attend Saint Mary’s. We are grateful for their continued support and demonstration of faith in the excellent higher education of the whole person they experience at this university. We welcome each new generation of students into the larger Saint Mary’s family. On Family Weekend, Sept. 27-29, we hosted a special dinner and reception to honor alums with students currently attending Saint Mary’s. Seventeen of those families attended, with several having ties to both the College and the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs.

Students interact with Board of Trustees

Some of the students meeting with trustees included Cynthia Garcia, Octavia Brown, Trish Nguyen, Peter Hegland, Lexi Assimos, Clare Siska, Hannah Friedrich and Theresa LaValla.

College and graduate students met with members of the Board of Trustees Oct. 3 in small group interactions intended to spark conversations about leadership development at Saint Mary’s. The 36 students were asked to speak to the trustees about how Saint Mary’s is preparing them for lives of ethical leadership and service. Trustees then followed up with additional questions about the students' experiences here at Saint Mary’s. The trustees found the interaction very beneficial and were most impressed with our students.

Students heading home for Christmas . . .

As students’ classes ended and they prepared for final exams, we paused to contemplate the traditional Christmas Light Service and to enjoy the popular Pre-Finals Christmas Breakfast. Following the Chapel service, the Office of Academic Affairs and Chartwells Food Service sponsored the late-night feast for hundreds of students, served by cheerful faculty and staff (shown above). Many Christmas carols were sung, and Santa made a rousing guest appearance.

Students, faculty and staff at Saint Mary’s join me in wishing you and your families a blessed Christmas, and health and peace in the New Year. May the Gift of Christmas fill your hearts and lives with peace and joy.

Dear Alumni and Parents,

The fall season is upon us. The days are growing shorter, the nights are cooling, and birds are gathering to head south. Most important, fall signals the start of the academic year, and we welcome with enthusiasm both new and returning students. The year is only a few weeks old, and already our students are busy with service activities, academic excellence, and fun. I want to give you a sense of what's happening on campus, and of what our students are doing.

New and updated majors this fall offer more opportunities to students

We are always reviewing our undergraduate program to make sure our offerings are relevant and appropriate for our students, our mission and the needs of society. In accord with our strategic plan and in order to give new opportunities to students, we have made the following additions and changes to our catalog.

We have reconfigured a major in Graphic and Intermedia Design and added new majors in Finance, Actuarial Science, and Business Intelligence and Analytics. In collaboration with the prestigious Mayo Clinic, we have added biology programs in Pre-Echocardiography and Pre-Radiography. And we have forged an agreement with the University of Minnesota to offer dual-degree transfer programs in Chemistry/Chemical Engineering and Physics/Engineering.

Science students benefit from diverse summer research and internships

Bethany Schmidt spent her summer working at the Kabara Cancer Research Institute.

Summer internship and research opportunities continue to expand for our students, offering invaluable real-world learning experiences. In the sciences, new this year is the Saint Mary’s University Fellow at Gundersen program at the Gundersen Medical Foundation’s Kabara Cancer Research Institute (Gundersen Health System, La Crosse, Wis.). Biology major Bethany Schmidt was the first to participate in this prestigious funded fellowship at the noted research facility. A total of 23 science students benefitted from diverse research, field work and internship experiences at agencies and organizations around the Midwest and even in Panama, Ecuador and Australia.

New Student Success Center area welcomes students for all 4 years

The staff of the Student Success Center welcome students to their new offices.

In our continuing efforts to improve student retention and to help students achieve success during college and after graduation, the undergraduate student support services were consolidated last year into the Student Success Center, under the direction of Dr. Esther Peralez, dean of student success. This past summer, a remodeling project brought the offices and functions of the SCC together into one convenient, multifunctional area in lower Griffin Hall.

The Student Success Center is designed to support students at any level of their ability. This “one-stop academic shop” offers advising, disability support services, career services and internships, tutoring, and writing services. Professional staff members are available to mentor, encourage and guide students in their academic and personal development. Students are encouraged to become familiar with and take advantage of these resources throughout their four years of college. (Student Success Center webpage.)

Students experience culture and theatre in London study abroad program

London program students, pictured with the London Eye Ferris Wheel in the background.



This fall semester 25 undergraduate students will gain international experiences and perspective as they attend our study abroad program in London, England. This is the largest group of students participating in the program since 2006. Dr. Gary Diomandes, professor of theatre and dance, serves as the director of the London program. As part of the Stefannié Valéncia Kierlin Theatre Program, students will present “The Triangle Factory Fire Project” at the Tara Arts Studio Theatre from October 22-26. The London program is available to students from all majors and offers courses in theatre, business, global issues, art and culture, British politics and literature. You can read more about student experiences on the program's blog.

Students start the year off right with community service projects

After one week of classes, New Student Volunteer Day gave freshmen an opportunity to be inspired by the Lasallian spirit of service early in their college careers, and discover more of what Saint Mary’s University is about. The Office of Campus Ministry-organized event provided about 120 undergraduate students the chance to engage with the Winona community by lending a hand at six local organizations.

They painted an outdoor hockey rink, parts of a church and the inside of the Winona Friendship Center with an assist from several of our athletic teams. They also fixed up trails and parks, and worked at the Winona Humane Society. Throughout the year, Campus Ministry and Volunteer Mentors will offer students more shared opportunities to be good citizens and live the mission. Saturday's event attracted attention from area media including the Winona Daily News and WKBT-TV in La Crosse and Fox47-TV in Rochester.

Campus Ministry holds Patriots’ Day and Prayer for Peace

Campus Ministry staff and students held Patriots’ Day and Prayer for Peace ceremonies in memory of of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. A moment of silence in the morning was followed by a community prayer at noon, surrounding the campus Peace Pole. The day was a chance to remember those who died and to recommit to working for peace in the world.

First-year students are welcomed to campus at Move-In Weekend

First-year students paused for a class photo during Move-In Weekend activities.

Following a summer of preparation on the Winona campus, the new class of first-year students was welcomed to the Saint Mary’s community. Each fall, Move-In Weekend serves as the prelude to Welcome Week as undergraduate students — both new and returning — begin the academic year.

On Saturday morning, new students and their families were lent helping hands by our athletic teams, staff and faculty as they unloaded cars and settled into the newness of their residence halls. Over the course of their first weekend with us, new students were kept busy getting to know each other and the university. We welcome our new students, and look forward to engaging with them in productive and exciting ways over the next four years.

Students gain international perspective at Lasallian Leadership Conference

Nicxie Mazon and Sam Kreutzfeldt (center) are pictured with students from LaSalle Beauvais school in France.

In line with our strategic plan goals of developing leaders and exploring our heritage and identity, two Saint Mary’s students expanded their “Lasallian family” and expanded their global perspective at the Lasallian Student Leadership Conference at La Salle University in Philadelphia. Nicxie Mazon and Sam Kreutzfeldt were among the 37 students and 10 faculty from 13 Christian Brothers colleges from seven countries who gathered for the July 14-26 conference.

The goal of the conference was to build bridges among the culturally diverse participants and provide opportunities to explore their similarities and differences. It emphasized developing leadership skills and building a cooperative international network of students identified as future Lasallian leaders by their home universities.

Catholic social teaching and the UN are explored by students in NYC

Dan Bayer, Erika Torres and Patrick Sweet at the Catholic Social Teaching Seminar.

Three of our students were among 58 from the U.S. and Canada to participate in last May’s Catholic Social Teaching Seminar sponsored by the Path to Peace Foundation in conjunction with the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations. Patrick Sweet, Erika Torres and Dan Bayer spent an educational and enjoyable week learning from noted experts and sharing discussion with fellow students. The group also toured the UN, the Holy See Mission, the U.S. Mission, the African Burial Ground and the 9-11 Memorial.

Achievements of current athletes and alums are honored at ‘M’ Club Weekend

Major award-winners for 2012-13 included Peter Borash, Alex Raske, Bethany Schmidt and Jake Traxler.

The annual Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend is a great way to celebrate the past, present and future of Cardinal athletics. On Sept. 13, the university honored student-athletes and alumni for their accomplishments in competition and in the classroom during the Sports Hall of Fame and Awards Ceremony.

Receiving awards were Peter Borash and Alex Raske, Outstanding Male and Female Athletes, and Jake Traxler and Bethany Schmidt, Outstanding Male and Female Scholar Athletes. In addition, three new members were inducted into the SMU Sports Hall of Fame. The Cardinal ‘M’ Club, in association with the Alumni Office, welcomed Greg (Dick ’84) Arens (men’s hockey), Todd Borndale ’85 (baseball) and Ashley (Dingels ’05) Gossen (volleyball/track and field). The weekend also featured a golf outing, alumni games and varsity athletic contests.  (Photos, story and video.)

Summer facilities improvements benefit students and staff

Vlazny Hall was renovated for student life offices. Shown are hall director Nick Lauer and Tim Gossen, dean of students.

Fitzgerald Library has a new library instruction and computer lab in the basement.


Every year, Saint Mary’s invests in improvement projects to make our campus more attractive to prospective students and more conducive to excellent teaching, learning and living.

The many projects completed over the past summer include:

• Enhanced meeting and gathering spaces that support and facilitate the good functioning of the Saint Mary’s educational community;
• Refurbished and enhanced classrooms and laboratories that support and facilitate teaching and learning;
• New and innovative uses of technology;
• Renovated and upgraded residence halls; and
• Improved offices to better serve students and staff.

Centennial All-School Reunion and Red Carpet Gala launch 2nd century

Brother Álvaro Rodríguez Echeverría, Superior General of the Christian Brothers, and Brother William chatted with student ambassadors at the Centennial Reunion picnic.

The year-long Centennial celebration came to a dramatic conclusion in June as the entire university community was invited to the Centennial All-School Reunion, by the Red Carpet Gala. The campus was alive with activity all weekend with traditional homecoming events, and there were some once-in-a-century events as well.

More than 50 Christian Brothers gathered on the Winona campus Saturday for the unveiling of a new statue that honors all members of the international Catholic teaching order who have served the university.

The Centennial Red Carpet Gala was truly the party of the century. More than 800 guests were treated to an precedented reception, dinner and dancing in the Gostomski Fieldhouse, highlighted by a special program which spoke to the transforming nature of the university’s past, present and future.

The Christian Brothers were honored, as were the Centennial chairs and Mike '62 and Joette Gostomski of Winona. The Gostomskis received a Heritage Award for their outstanding support, engagement and philanthropy. After dinner and in between thunderstorms guests viewed fireworks in the university plaza, and the night was capped with dancing to the cool sounds of Nicholas David, finalist in NBC's "The Voice."

(Photos from the weekend's activities.)

Stanley Cup and Blackhawks president draw crowds to Winona campus

John McDonough holds the Stanley Cup for a team photo with SMU hockey players.



Thanks to our alum, John McDonough ’75, the National Hockey League’s Stanley Cup championship trophy came to campus on Sept. 6, drawing a large and enthusiastic crowd from the Saint Mary’s and Winona communities. More than 1,000 people came to rally and to get their picture taken with the Cup and McDonough, President and CEO of the NHL champion Chicago Blackhawks.

The rally celebrated the achievement of the professional hockey team and its president, and recognized SMU hockey legends Bob Paradise ’66, Andre Beaulieu ’65, Terry Skrypek ’70 and former coach Don Olson. During a luncheon with business leaders, Mayor Mark Peterson proclaimed Sept. 6, 2013, as “John F. McDonough Day” in Winona. Our thanks go to John McDonough for sharing his championship spirit and inspiring leadership, and for sharing the Stanley Cup, an iconic symbol of excellence that brought positive visibility to his alma mater. (More photos of the day.)

SAINT MARY’S CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION: A YEAR UNLIKE ANY OTHER

We have reached a pivotal moment in the life of the university. After several years of planning and 11 months of special events engaging over 5,000 students, alumni and friends, we are approaching the grand finale of our Centennial celebration. Much more than a look back, the Red Carpet Centennial Gala will help launch the university into a second century of transformational higher education. Let me tell you more about the Centennial Gala, and about some of the other wonderful activities and academic achievements this past spring.

Please join us for the Red Carpet Centennial Gala on June 22

Eleven months ago we gathered on the lawn of Saint Mary's Hall on the Winona campus to kick off our Centennial celebration. It has been a year full of events honoring our transforming heritage, and it has been a year of promise as we prepare for our future. This unprecedented year of celebration will culminate in one final, very special evening on June 22. The Red Carpet Centennial Gala will be a spectacular gathering to launch the second century of the university. 



Anchoring the all-school reunion weekend (June 21-23), the Centennial Gala will draw attendees from decades of alumni who will be in Winona, as well as many special and honored guests. You are cordially invited to join the festivities and help us celebrate our past and embrace our future. For more information call 507-457-6609 or go to www.mysmumn.org/gala.

Centennial Celebration of Scholarship is showcase for student research, talents

Lexi Assimos explained her psychology research to Dr. Jay Mutter during the first Celebration of Scholarship.

On the occasion of our Centennial year, the Celebration of Scholarship on April 12 was a showcase for the quality and variety of student research taking place at the College. This campus-wide celebration highlighted the accomplishments of our undergraduate students, featuring 100 presentations by more than 150 students in numerous disciplines.

In addition to the live presentations in classrooms and performance spaces, numerous students lined the first floor of Saint Mary's Hall to explain poster presentations to visitors. An estimated 700 students, along with parents and other guests viewed the research and experience the talents of our students. The day was capped by the presentation of awards and honors at an evening academic convocation in Page Theatre.

See photos of the day's events.

Saint Mary’s explores further collaboration with Gundersen Lutheran

Audrey Kintzi, vice president for development; Phil Schumacher M’74, Gundersen Medical Foundation executive director of development; Dr. Steven Titus, senior vice president for university advancement; Dr. Carl Simon Shelley, Gundersen Lutheran Hospital; Brother Ed Siderewicz, special assistant to the president.

A noted cancer researcher was on the Winona campus in late March to discuss Saint Mary's, our science programs, and our vision for the sciences. Dr. Carl Simon Shelley, director of hematology/oncology research in Gundersen Lutheran Hospital’s Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders, spoke with university officers and faculty to explore opportunities for further partnerships that would engage both students and teachers. Dr. Shelley discussed the possibility for high-level student internships in his state-of-the-art research lab, as well as opportunities for SMU faculty to present at Gundersen Lutheran and hospital staff to present at Saint Mary's. Biology major Bethany Schmidt will intern in Dr. Shelley's lab this summer.

A Saint Mary's group visited Dr. Shelley and his La Crosse laboratory this past winter. Dr. Shelley’s research activity is supported by Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation and the Kabara Cancer Research Institute at Gundersen Lutheran established by Saint Mary's Trustee Betty Kabara and the late Dr. John Kabara '48.

Living Learning Community demonstrates benefits for first-year students

In the effort to create a vibrant campus and transformational residential life experience at the College, the first Living Learning Community was piloted this year for first-year students in La Salle Hall. On April 6, students in the program hosted an open house to demonstrate how this collaboration between academics and student life helped them connect and grow during their first year at college. The program of focused study and activities in and out of the residence hall combined the themes of wellness, sustainability and spirituality.



Next year, four separate new Living Learning Communities will be designed around a course that fulfills the first-year Lasallian Core Tradition course requirement. LLCs next fall will focus on the arts, wellness, interfaith dialogue, and sports in a global context. Students will live in the Saint Edward’s Living Learning Center, with learning and social activities directed by residence life staff and faculty.

Kabara Institute speakers highlight diverse ‘Entrepreneurship Days’

Jeff Van Fossen, CEO of CodaBow, shared his insights with students during
Entrepreneurship Days.

Fulfilling the mission of Saint Mary’s and meeting the goals of our strategic plan includes building a robust agenda of speakers and experiences to engage our students and community. To that end, the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies sponsored the 2013 Entrepreneurship Days April 15-17 on the Winona campus. “The presentations and discussions showed how the principles and concepts of entrepreneurship can be applied across a variety of disciplines and careers,” commented Jim Bedtke, vice president for the College.

Hosted by the Entrepreneurship Club, the three-day event included a diverse lineup of speakers. Mary-Kate Martin, a teacher and social entrepreneur, is founder of the non-profit organization “Hosea’s Heart.” Her presentation was co-sponsored by the Education Club and ASCD. Jeff Van Fossen is founder and CEO of CodaBow, a composite materials company and pioneer of instrumental carbon fiber technology, which markets products nationally and internationally. Todd and Laura Roessler are entrepreneurs in the growing Wisconsin and Minnesota winery industry and they operate the Elmaro Winery. Karla Bloem is director of the Houston Nature Center in Houston, Minn., and the founder of the International Owl Festival. Her presentation was co-sponsored by the Biology Club.

Early-bird new students get a head start on orientation and registration

Jan Dimmitt-Olson of the Education Department helped incoming students navigate 
through class registration.

The just-completed undergraduate College academic year is still a fresh memory, but already incoming students are getting set for the fall semester. On May 20 the Winona campus hosted students and parents for the first New Student Orientation and Registration, with additional dates set for June 15 and 17, and August 2 and 23. 



NSOR is an introduction to the many opportunities for students to get involved on campus, and the many resources that will help them succeed at SMU. They learn of the College's academic expectations, and they get to meet other new students and the faculty and staff who will soon know them by name. And they get the advice and assistance they need to make smart choices for their first semester of college on Terrace Heights. Many faculty, staff and student leaders give their time and expertise to make sure NSOR is a great experience.

Sen. Michael Johanns honored for service at Winona commencement ceremony

Senator Michael Johanns ’71 applauded new undergraduate and graduate alums at the Winona commencement.



At the Winona campus commencement ceremony on May 11, U.S. Senator Michael Johanns of Nebraska, a 1971 Saint Mary’s alum, was awarded a Doctor of Laws degree, honoris causa, for his lifetime of work as a public servant. Senator Johanns was cited for more than 30 years of distinguished service to society as mayor of Lincoln, governor of Nebraska, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, and U.S. Senator. Further, the citation noted that Senator Johanns has "exemplified the characteristics of service and ethical leadership that this university strives to develop in all of its students and, by a life admirably dedicated in service of the common good, has brought honor and credit to his alma mater."

See photos from the day's events.

University honors Branford Marsalis after special performance

Dr. Donna Aronson and Brother William presented an honorary doctorate 
to noted musician Branford Marsalis.

Branford Marsalis, renowned Grammy Award-winning saxophonist, Tony Award-nominated composer and former “Tonight Show” bandleader, received an honorary doctorate March 26 from Saint Mary’s University. Marsalis was on campus to collaborate with pianist Dr. Ned Kirk, SMU professor of music. Music students had the opportunity to hear the duo perform and ask questions of the legendary musician.



Brother William presented Marsalis with an honorary Doctor of Arts Leadership for his world-class work as a musician, his commitment to musical excellence, his innovative spirit, and his sharing of knowledge and skills as a mentor to jazz musicians. The award also honored Marsalis for his roles performing at the London Live Aid benefit for Ethiopian famine relief and his leadership in working to establish the Habitat Musicians Village in New Orleans after the Hurricane Katrina devastation.



University honors those who live our mission at Centennial Founder's Day

Outstanding Female and Male Seniors at the College, Constance Budin and Peter Borash.

On the occasion of the university's Centennial-year Founder's Day, April 9, Saint Mary’s honored two students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership and service. Above all, these men and women have shown genuine concern for meeting the needs of others. Peter Borash, son of Ron and Ann Borash of North Prairie, Minn. was named Outstanding Male Senior; and Constance Budin, daughter of Bruce and Colleen Budin of Le Center, Minn. was named Outstanding Female Senior.

Also during the ceremony, Teresa Speck, professor of business, received this year’s Brother H. Charles Severin, FSC Award for Excellence in Teaching, and Tony Piscitiello ’69, M’82, senior advancement director and former longtime vice president of College admissions, was chosen as this year’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator, an award given by Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers to honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education.

Brother Joseph Loewenstein of Bethlehem University received an honorary Doctor of Humanities for his inspiring leadership throughout 70 years as a De La Salle Christian Brother. Brother Jean Manuel, also of Bethlehem University, received an honorary Doctor of Humanities in recognition of 58 years of service as a De La Salle Christian Brother. And Brother Terence McLaughlin ’44 of Christian Brothers College in Memphis received an honorary Doctor of Humanities in recognition of his 72 years as a De La Salle Christian Brother, as a champion of racial equality, as an outstanding teacher, mentor and school administrator, and as an author.

See photos of the day's events.

Student Life Awards celebrate student service and leadership

Some of the students completing the Leadership Certificate program posed following the Student Life Awards.

Undergraduate students were honored for their outstanding leadership in campus activities, organizations, community service and residential life during the Student Life Awards ceremony May 1. Several faculty and staff members were also recognized for their excellent and impactful work with students in residence life and co-curricular activities.



Our mission is to "awaken, nurture and empower learners to ethical lives of service and leadership." In keeping with that goal, 13 students received Office of Student Activities Leadership Certificates for completing a co-curricular program designed to give both emerging and advanced leaders the skills and knowledge to enhance their leadership development. Participants engaged in student activities, discussed a book on leadership, completed a personal Strengthsfinder exercise, attended speaker events, and did service work on campus and in the community.

See photos of the event.

Students advocate for State Grant during Day at the Capitol

As part of the university's commitment in Strategic Plan 2017 to the development of experiences that cultivate leadership, 58 of our students participated in Day at the Capitol on March 20. The event, sponsored by the Minnesota Private College Council, gave students the opportunity to meet with their state representatives and senators to advocate for increased funding for the Minnesota State Grant program. One in four students at Saint Mary's receives a Minnesota State Grant award, amounting to more than $1.1 million in the 2012-13 academic year. We thank our students for their advocacy for this program.



As part of the day, Saint Mary's students provided Centennial mementos to Rep. Gene Pelowski, Sen. Jeremy Miller and Gov. Mark Dayton, thanking them for their support of the Minnesota State Grant program.



In addition, an SMU alumni panel was offered to students. This year, Michael Dougherty '76, Ann Merchlewitz M'95 and Brodie Hacken '06 provided their perspectives and advice to our students on preparation for law school and the practice of law.

Conversations about college affordability

On March 27 in Winona, Brother William and student Miles Dunna (shown above) participated in a roundtable discussion about college affordability and student debt with Senator Al Franken. Brother William emphasized for Senator Franken our commitment to college affordability as part of our Lasallian Catholic heritage and our commitment to making college affordable through our Pathways program with two-year MnSCU institutions.



Larry Pogemiller, director of the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, also attended the discussion. Afterward, Brother William hosted Pogemiller for lunch and a tour of the Winona campus. Pogemiller interacted with a number of faculty members, staff members, and students informally — all of whom spoke about the sense of community and academic excellence/challenge at the College. Pogemiller also learned more about our commitment to the Winona community through our work in the Literacy Clinic and our partnership with a variety of community organizations in the Brother Jerome Rademacher Nordic Ski Center.



These two opportunities enabled Saint Mary's to increase its visibility with policy-makers at the state and federal level and to highlight the significant place Saint Mary's holds in higher education locally, regionally and nationally.

Spring sports compete well in conference

The erratic spring weather caused many scheduling headaches but didn't stop several of our spring sports from enjoying playoff-caliber success. Women's fastpitch softball finished fourth and made the MIAC tournament for the third straight year. Men's baseball tied for third in conference and made the MIAC tournament for the second year in a row. The men's tennis team made the MIAC tournament for the first time in the seven-year history of the playoff format, and coach Jeff Halberg was named the MIAC Coach of the Year. And men's and women's track and field had athletes competing in the MIAC Outdoor Championships. The spring athletic teams are to be congratulated for an overall successful season.

Students fan out to Spruce-Up Winona

Community Memorial Hospital was one of the Spruce-Up Winona sites welcoming help from SMU students.

Our students live out a commitment to leadership and service to society. On the local level, on April 20 more than 160 Saint Mary's students, coordinated by Campus Ministry's Volunteer Mentors, volunteered to help out non-profit organizations at 40 clean-up and fix-up sites around Winona. The community-wide effort was held in conjunction with Earth Day.

Students plan their own Centennial event

Students 'dressed appropriately' during the Centennial 'Decades Dance' 
in the Gostomski Fieldhouse.

Students at the Winona campus wanted a chance to hold a Centennial celebration during the school year. Planned by our Student Centennial Leaders, two crowd-pleasing events on April 13 attracted approximately 550 undergraduates to an afternoon carnival in Gostomski Fieldhouse and an evening "Decades Dance." Students enjoyed winning prizes, playing inflatable games, eating carnival food, and dancing to music (including an appearance by the Oldie Moldie All-Stars).

See photos of the day's events.

Spring brings new energy and activity to campus

Winter is hanging on tenaciously this year, but the hope of spring, coupled with increasing daylight hours are bringing a freshness and new energy to campus. These remaining months of the school year are filled with activities and events as we accelerate toward commencement in May. Looking back on the winter months, I am gratified that our students continue to excel in academics, the arts and athletics, and that they reach out to each other and the broader community. Let me tell you about a few of the interesting things happening on campus.

Students excelling in academics . . .

CELEBRATION OF SCHOLARSHIP IS ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT OF CENTENNIAL YEAR

Shelby DeWall and Scott Klappa presented research at the 2012 Psychology Symposium.

One hallmark of a liberal arts university is the ability for students to engage in real-world, hands-on research and to present their research and ideas to others. At Saint Mary's, students can do this early and often in their four-year careers. And on Friday, April 12, a new campus-wide event will highlight the accomplishments of our undergraduate students across all academic disciplines.

The Centennial Celebration of Scholarship will feature 100 presentations from 150 student participants. Students, faculty and parents of presenters are encouraged to attend and will receive an invitation. This is the first time that the entire campus will participate in recognizing the diverse talents and skills of SMU students across a broad spectrum of majors. An academic honors convocation will be held that night to allow departments to recognize outstanding students in each discipline, students in honor societies, and those receiving campus-wide awards.

THREE STUDENTS PRESENT RESEARCH AT SCHOLARS AT THE CAPITOL

Saint Mary’s students presenting at this year’s event included, from left: Kristen Thelen, Mary Gerty and Sabrina Bushlack. State Sen. Jeremy Miller met with Saint Mary’s students after their research presentations.

Scientific scholarship was on display as three Saint Mary’s students headed to the Minnesota State Capitol Rotunda on Feb. 19 to present the results of their independent research and creative scholarship at the annual Minnesota Private College Scholars at the Capitol event.

The Minnesota Private College Council hosts this event to celebrate the achievements of just a few of the thousands of students who attend 17 private schools of higher learning in Minnesota. The event helps the Minnesota Legislature and the governor understand the important role that involving undergraduates in research plays in their educational and professional development. And it affords legislators the opportunity to meet outstanding students — future leaders — who are products of Minnesota private colleges and universities.

MAYO SCHOLARS GIVE PRESENTATION

Saint Mary’s students who served as Mayo Scholars this past year include Anna Sonday (business and history), third from left; Amy Spitzmueller (biology), center left; Jacquelyn Delfosse (biology), center right; and Nicholas White (business), third from right. Their team leader was Rachel Hamilton, a graduate student from Augsburg College, left. Faculty advisors for the group included Chandu Valluri (business), second from left; and Dr. Matthew Rowley (biology), back left. Dr. Tom Marpe (business), back right, has served as the dean coordinator and Sr. Genevieve Robinson, right, will take over for Marpe in 2013-14. Also pictured is Dr. Donna Aronson, vice president of Academic Affairs, second from right.

The Mayo Innovation Scholars Program represents a partnership between business and education in providing real-world opportunities for students who are potentially uncovering innovation that will have a positive impact on both health care and the Minnesota economy. A group of four students have spent the past five months researching projects submitted by Mayo Clinic professionals. The group presented their findings in March. Manu Nair, the Mayo Innovation Scholars Program project manager from Mayo Clinic New Ventures, commented that the Saint Mary’s group’s presentation was the best he had seen in the program. Now in its seventh year, the Mayo Innovation Scholars Program continues to be an innovative model for student experiential learning.

Students enjoying new opportunities . . .

2 NEW MAJORS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MAYO 

The university is adding to a growing list of prestigious collaborations with Mayo Clinic and other major medical institutions. Two new undergraduate science majors have been approved, and an agreement has been signed with Mayo School of Health Sciences to offer Radiography and Echocardiography. Both programs are designed so that students spend two years at Saint Mary’s taking required courses, and then finish with two years at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. It’s possible that students with the proper prerequisites could begin in the two new programs next fall.

These are exciting additions to our collaboration with Mayo for in-demand healthcare fields. Saint Mary’s is the only private college in Minnesota to partner with Mayo in these programs. Other existing affiliated programs with Mayo include Nuclear Medicine Technology, Cytotechnology, and Medical Laboratory Science.

LIVING LEARNING COMMUNITIES EXPAND AT SMU

After piloting a Living Learning Community (LLC) for first-year students in LaSalle Hall, the university is offering four new LLCs for the 2013-14 academic year. The LLC program is a collaboration between academics and student life to help students connect and grow during their first year at college. This year’s program of study and activities in and out of the residence hall combined the themes of wellness, sustainability and spirituality.

Each of the four separate new Living Learning Communities is designed around a course that fulfills the first-year Lasallian Core Tradition course requirement. LLCs next fall will focus on the arts, wellness, interfaith dialogue, and sports in a global context. Students will live in the Saint Edward’s Living Learning Center, with learning and social activities directed by residence life staff and faculty. 

Learn more

STUDENTS GAIN SUMMER RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

Joe Sweeney, senior development director, and Brother Ed Siderewicz, assistant to the president for First Generation and Lasallian Initiatives, met with Greg Melsen, Interim CEO of R&D Systems, and distinguished alum, Roger Lucas '65.

A distinctive aspect of our science programs is the ability for our undergraduate students to do field research, which leads to success in securing graduate research opportunities and employment. We are pleased to announce that the R&D Systems Summer Internship Program will be renewed for summer 2013. Four SMU students will be selected to participate in these research internships. We are grateful to Dr. Roger Lucas ’65 and R&D Systems (a subsidiary of TECHNE Corporation, one of the world’s largest suppliers of biotechnology products) for their continued support of science excellence at Saint Mary’s.

In addition, Dr. Phil Cochran, chair of the Biology Department, has been awarded a contract from a Trout Unlimited chapter in northern Indiana to consult on a lamprey monitoring program in the Little Elkhart River. This opportunity allows one student to engage in significant field research in support of his/her senior thesis.