Sesquicentennial Raven Review Benedictine College

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RAVEN REVIEW Benedictine College • Spring 2009 Vol. 37, No. 2

Special Sesquicentennial Edition We look forward to celebrating the next 150 years with you.

STAFF

Editor & Art Director

Features 1 4 R eflec tions on Community 1 8 Lov eU 24 A Com m unity of Faith 28 Hunger Coalition: 25 Years of Service 32 A Cat h o lic Approach to Scholar ship

ARTICLES 4 16 26 34 35

The History of a Great Catholic College Beanies Papal Nu n cio Welcom ed at BC New School of Business New N ur sing Progr am

CLASS NOTES 3 8 - 43 Class N otes 43 Weddings & Anniver sar ies 4 3 - 44 Bir ths & Ad op tions 4 4 - 50 Deceased

Megan Bickford, ’03 Associate Director of Communications mbickford@benedictine.edu

executive editor Steve Johnson Director of Marketing and Communications

editorial staff Christen Jones, ’96 Contributing Writer Fr. Brendan Rolling, OSB, ’96 Contributing Writer Dr. Kimberly Shankman Contributing Writer Alzbeta Voboril Contributing Writer & Photographer Joe Wurtz, ’99 Contributing Writer

Class Notes Kathy Garrison Class Notes Coordinator garrison@benedictine.edu

Courtney Marshall Director of Alumni & Donor Relations cmarshall@benedictine.edu 1.913.426.7428 Benedictine College: 1.800.766.0078 www.benedictine.edu

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Message from the

P R E S I D E NT

It has been an historic time at Benedictine College. We are celebrating our 150th birthday. We have a grotto dedicated to the Mary under construction. We have welcomed some of the most amazing speakers to our campus through our Sesquicentennial Speakers series. Our students defeated Notre Dame in a debate competition. The Students in Free Enterprise team won the regional competition in Dallas. In athletics, we played football on field turf and soccer under the lights for the first time ever. And on top of all of that, our Investing in Excellence campaign has raised more money than any campaign in our history.

This special Sesquicentennial issue of the Raven Review should bring some smiles to your faces as you think back upon the time you spent here. And while many of the stories in this issue look back, you’ll also notice that we are looking forward to the next 150 years. Our Engineering Program is underway and bringing top students to our campus. Faculty and the Board of Directors have approved a new nursing program, which will begin enrolling pre-nursing students this fall. Our School of Business is already raising both awareness and interest in Benedictine College.

I hope you have a strong sense of connection to both the past and our future. As a proud alumnus, I enjoy seeing my alma mater named one of the top Catholic colleges in America. I’m thrilled to see BC listed as a leader in educational excellence. I’m delighted to have Benedictine College recognized as one of America’s Best Colleges. Our past, our traditions, our success, and our future are undeniably tied together. Right now, everything is working together to keep us on track, even through these challenging economic times.

Thanks to all of you, we are weathering the storm and looking with hope to the coming academic year. Our growth still looks strong, and the need to finish the capital portion of the Investing in Excellence campaign has never been more important. Your donations helped fund the Grotto, and we need to continue the push to fund the new Academic Center.

There are certainly difficult times ahead, but Benedictine College is prepared. With prayer and hard work, and by holding fast to our mission, we will continue to be successful. Even with the challenging economic times, I can see we are blessed at Benedictine College. We are truly building one of the great Catholic colleges in America.

Sincerely,

Stephen D. Minnis, ’82

Steve Minnis, seated in center, during his days on campus.

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Benedictine College and its founding institutions, St. Benedict’s College and Mount St. Scholastica College, have been educating men and women within a community of faith and scholarship for 150 years. That is an impressive accomplishment. Over 80 percent of all colleges founded before the Civil War did not survive into the 21st century; but we did. Only 16 Catholic Colleges founded before 1860 are still in existence today; we are one of them. In the past 30 years, four private colleges in Kansas, including two Catholic colleges, closed their doors; we not only survived, but continued to grow so that we are now one of the largest independent colleges in the state. We have been around so long that the Chicago Cubs have actually won a World Series since we were founded.

The History of a Great Catholic College

Excerpts from the speech by President Stephen D. Minnis during the Benedictine College Sesquicentennial Convocation

Yet even this remarkable history fails to convey the tremendous legacy to which our college is heir. As a Benedictine college, we are part of an educational heritage that stretches back 1,500 years. Mount St. Scholastica Monastery and St. Benedict’s Abbey, our sponsoring communities, still follow the guidance of the Rule of St. Benedict; a rule written in the sixth century, but still guiding and inspiring thousands upon thousands of Benedictines in the world today.

September 8, 2008

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Through their quiet, dedicated, and largely hidden work, they transformed the world. If you consider the world we live in today, it is amazing how many institutions and achievements we take for granted sprang from the Benedictine monasteries that preserved western culture:

•The Benedictines cared for the sick, and their work led to the modern hospital.

•They developed the art of bookkeeping and so laid the foundations of modern commerce.

•The Benedictines provided the modern cycle of liturgical readings, the great heritage of sacred music, the modern calendar.

•They preserved manuscripts, copying them by hand. And, above all, they kept the intellectual heritage of Western civilization alive.

And so the Benedictine commitment has continued through the centuries, and right here in Atchison we have become a part of this great story.

One hundred fifty years ago, here in northeastern Kansas, things were much worse than they are today.

Not only was this the lonely edge of the frontier, it was also the focus of the increasingly violent prelude to the Civil War. Into this bleak and bloody environment, a lone priest, a monk from Pennsylvania, Fr. Henry Lemke, came to serve the needs of

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Men and women who embraced the Benedictine way of life were called to do all things “ut in omnibus glorificetur Deus” (so that in all things God may be glorified). They did not seek the recognition of the world; they did not launch crusades or seize empires or amass great wealth.

Instead, they prayed, day in and day out. And, in addition to praying, they worked. Some of them became great saints, making an important mark on the world. Mostly, however, they were not noticed in this way. Thousands upon thousands of monks and sisters whose names we do not know simply devoted themselves to the life of prayer and work dictated by St. Benedict’s Rule.

the isolated Catholics. And through his persistence, his abbot, Boniface Wimmer, was persuaded to send monks to start a new abbey out here on the edge of the trackless wilderness.

Life was hard, but the monks followed the heritage of St. Benedict, and soon after they arrived in Kansas they incorporated St. Benedict’s College, a school for young men. That is how we began—no wealthy donors, no civic boosters looking to make a name for their city, just two monks far from the comforts of civilization, following the call to bring the light of faith and knowledge to their neighbors.

In 1863, in the middle of the Civil War, things were hardly easier when the band of seven Benedictine Sisters arrived in Atchison. The sisters came to bring the same light of Benedictine education to the women of Atchison and northeastern Kansas. They immediately opened a school, and eventually that developed into Mount St. Scholastica College. Over the years, the monks and sisters braved

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Thomas Hoenig, alumnus and president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City Opening Convocation Keynote Address

Dave Goebel, former chief executive officer of Applebee’s International, Inc. “Effective Leadership During Tough Times”

Peter C. Brown, chief executive officer of AMC “AMC Entertainment: Hollywood in the Heart of America”

Kathleen Blanco, former governor of Louisiana “Lessons from Katrina”

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Bradley Smith, former chairman of the Federal Election Commission “The Price of Democracy: The Role of Money in the 2008 Presidential Election”

Sean Flynn, Ph.D.,’88, alumnus and Global Head of Investment Banking Strategy for Credit Suisse, “Today’s Financial Crises: How We Got Here and What’s Next”

Dayton Moore, Senior Vice PresidentBaseball Operations/General Manager- KC Royals “Winning with Integrity”

Christopher Vath, internationally known pianist and composer “Talking Music”

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& Don Soderquist, former Senior Vice Chairman of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. “The Building of Walmart: The Importance of Ethics”

Ambassador Cris Arcos, former United States Ambassador to Honduras “Today’s Global Environment”

Dr. Joseph Roetheli and his wife, Judy, entrepreneurs and creators of Greenies® dog treats “An Entrepreneurial Philosophy and Lessons Learned”

Dr. Kimberly Shankman, Dean of Benedictine College “Lincoln in Atchison”

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Syl Schieber, ’68, “A Personal Testimony Against the Death Penalty”

Archbishop Celestino Migliore, The Vatican’s Ambassador to the United Nations, “The Role of the Catholic Church in the United Nations”

Mark Colin Havard, contemporary of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien “The Lewis and Tolkien I Knew: Memories of an Inkling’s Son”

Dr. Felicia Hardison Londre, noted theatre historian “Brave New World: Shakespeare Performance in the United States”

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Sesquicentennial Speaker Series Twenty-one outstanding personalities graced the Benedictine College campus for this years’s Sesquicentennial Speakers Series.

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Jeff Berghoff, Berghoff Design Group Sesquicentennial Cray Lecture “Youth and the Entrepreneurial Spirit”

Peter Fallon, famed Irish poet Readings from his collected works

Greg Weishar, CEO of PharMerica Corporation “Leadership in Trying Times”

hardships we can hardly imagine. Wars, disease, economic devastation all have made their mark upon our community.

Yet through it all, they followed the Benedictine path.

Through this quiet, persistent pursuit of excellence, they educated bishops, abbots, prioresses; they educated doctors, judges, bank presidents and entrepreneurs. They educated a young man from a small town in Iowa—Ft. Madison; a town even smaller than Atchison—who graduated with a dual major in economics and mathematics. This is Thomas Hoenig, ’68, a Benedictine graduate who went on to get a Ph.D. in economics and has risen to become one of the most powerful and important people in shaping this country’s economic policy, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City.

The Sisters educated a young woman from Kenya who had come to this country with nothing more than the possessions she could carry in a single suitcase and a burning desire to learn—to better herself and her country.

This was Wangari Maathai, ’64, who in 2004 became the only person educated at a Catholic college in America to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

Not only world-famous alumni such as Dr. Hoenig and Dr. Maathai, but many others too numerous to mention, have, over the years, taken the lessons they learned at Benedictine College—in the classroom, on the field, in the residence halls—and applied them in their lives to make their communities, their parishes, their workplaces and their families stronger. Through them all, Benedictine College has made an impact on the world.

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Marc Wilson, executive director of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Discovery Day Keynote Address “The Dada of Discovery”

be glorified. Benedictine monks and sisters preserved Western civilization. But what they did on a day-to-day basis probably did not feel like greatness to them. Tilling the soil is back-breaking work; caring for the sick is fatiguing and wearisome; and copying a manuscript is tedious. But because of their willingness to do all these ordinary things with an unwavering commitment, glorious things were done.

We are all a part of something great, something bigger than ourselves. The Benedictine Order saved western culture, created Europe as we know it and right here in Kansas built one of the great Catholic colleges in America. Today we celebrate a century and a half of Benedictine education in northeastern Kansas. We are all privileged to be here at this special time. We have an incredible heritage, both the 1,500 year legacy of Benedictine dedication to the glorification of God and the 150 year legacy of sacrifice, perseverance, and commitment to excellence that marks the history of Benedictine College.

In order to make this heritage our own, we must follow the lead of those who have gone before us. We are all called to transform the world through a commitment to excellence in the Benedictine tradition. Each and every one of us has been given a priceless gift, preserved over centuries— and it is up to us to live up to that great legacy.

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Thank you, God bless you and God bless Benedictine College.

We must remember that doing great things most often means doing ordinary things with an unwavering commitment to excellence—so that in all things God may Terrance Gainer, ’69, Sergeant at Arms of the U.S. Senate Sesquicentennial Commencement Speaker

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millennials Over the 150 year history of Benedictine College, every new generation of students has brought its personality, interests, and hopes with it and left a mark on the college. Each generation is as unique as the individuals within it. So who are the college students of 2009? They are Generation Y or what some have called the Millennial Generation. They grew up being told they were special and were sheltered in many ways. They are bonded to their parents and networked to their friends. Their understanding of technology and frequent use of it has defined much of their lives.

Neil Howe and William Strauss, noted authors about the Millennial generation, describe in their book, Millennials Go to College, seven core traits of this generation. According to Howe and Strauss, Millennials are special, sheltered, confident, team-oriented, conventional, pressured, and achieving.

By Steve Johnson and Christen Jones, ’96

BC Millennials and Technology Millennial Generation students at Benedictine College are no different than those cited in national surveys. They are extremely connected to family and friends, are very mobile, and can burn up a keypad text messaging.

in touch with her mother with both phone calls and text messages while on an educational trip throughout Egypt.

And she noted that those messages were instant, no long delays between replies.

“My laptop travels with me. I use it for homework, for my student job, and it goes with me when I go home for visits,” said Joy Deniger, 19, a freshman at BC. “Most of my friends have laptops, too.” Her cell phone is also a constant companion. “I’ve had a cell phone since I was 16,” she said.

“Not as long as a lot of people.”

“It was just like being at home,” she said. Her experience with cell phones and texting is already extensive. She’s had a cell phone for the past 6 years.

She talks with her mother almost every day and stays in touch with her friends and siblings with text messages.

Jon Givens, 22, is a senior communications major set to graduate into the “real” world in May. He likes the new technology and is very comfortable with it. He’s had a cell phone since he was 16 and upgraded to the latest technology regularly (every 18 months or so) according to his service contract. He currently has the popular I-Phone.

“It’s so helpful in staying in touch,” he said. “Everyone is adapting to the technology. This is how we communicate now. It even has application to education and business.”

He also has a Facebook account and a Twitter account.

“I email my mom and I communicate with my dad through Facebook,” he said. “It’s just so easy to drop a message on Facebook. Communication now is really simple and available.”

“The neat thing about the Blackberry is you can get emails sent to your text message box,” she said. “It’s kept me so much more in touch with my parents and even teachers. I was really bad about checking my emails on the computer.”

And text messaging is where it’s at. She has logged as many as 6,000 text messages in a month!

Alicia Nuvolini, 19, a sophomore psychology major, is also an avid user of text messaging, but her “record” is a mere 2700 messages in a month. That’s certainly a lot, but pales when compared to McIntosh. Nuvolini also likes to stay in touch with her cell phone, technology she has used since she was 15.

“I talk to my friends back home a lot,” she said. “And one of my friends is in the Navy. He’s stationed in Japan and I talk to him all the time. It makes it very easy and convenient.”

Inexpensive. Simple. Convenient. The Millennial Generation has grown up with unprecedented technological advances and they are certainly comfortable with it, both at Benedictine and around the globe.

Sam McIntosh, 19, is a sophomore political science major who has been smitten by the Blackberry. She even stayed

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Conventional

Confident & Team-Oriented

Millennials begin their interactions with institutions with an understanding that they need to show respect for it and for those in authority. What comes with this is a set of very high expectations. As soon as an administrator has disappointed the student or not lived up to the expectations, there is a loss of trust which will be hard to regain.

There is also a return to more traditional values, such as modesty, courtship, spirituality, and faithfulness for many in the Millennial Generation.

Pressured and Achieving

Today’s college students are more upbeat and positive about their future than previous generations and have generally turned away from risk-taking behaviors like substance abuse and crime. Their positive outlook has helped them embrace “college spirit” and bring back things like the traditional pep rally, school songs, and formal dances. Thanks to technology, they are more connected than ever before. According to The Profile of Today’s College Student (Daver), 43% of college students spend 3-5 hours a day on the Internet, 85% have social network profiles, and 85% send text messages on their cell phones.

Special & Sheltered

Since the time they could walk, Millennials have been scheduled to succeed by their parents and those in authority. Soccer practice, piano lessons, band rehearsal, part-time job, leadership council, youth group, homework, family dinner, dating, community service hours…many high school students come to college looking to slow down. There is also the notion that you can’t just play soccer, for instance; you have to be the team captain because that will help you get a scholarship. This level of pressure is leading to high achievement, but also increased stress. College administrators must continue to help students find balance in their academic and personal lives.

Millennials have grown up in a society where play dates are the norm, seatbelt laws have always existed, helmets are required for bicycle riding, and there are zero tolerance policies within the school systems. Today, 75% of college students have never had to share a room, which means colleges will need to provide a higher standard of housing. Students today are more accustomed to individualized attention and colleges will have to welcome more involvement from parents.

P rofil e

•Students predominantly Christian

M HI MO

•63% work while in college, 24% work more than one job, 41% work between 16-35 hours a week •Reasons why they work: 47% to pay for some or all of college & personal expenses, 20% for extra spending money •27% did not feel prepared for the academic demand of college, 31% said they did not have study skills needed to be successful •Within the last 12 months, 74% experienced stress, 47% experienced relationship difficulties, 44% experienced sleep difficulties •61% stay current in politics, 55% on entertainment •47% receive news through frequent use of Internet, 39% have never read a printed newspaper other than college newspaper, 37% watch 1-2 hours of television a day, 8% do not watch any television, 85% have social network profiles online •43% spend 3-5 hours a day on the Internet, 28% spend 1-2 hours, and 15% spend 6-10 hours • 29% said they felt overwhelmed 5 or more times, 16% said three times in the last month, 18% said

The Profile of Today’s College Student two times – nationwide survey administered by NASPA – provides a snapshot of student •By participating in campus activities 55% said that they have meet people they would not have otherwise behaviors and beliefs in the spring 2008 met, 43% have met people with different interests than their own, 36% said they are more likely to complete – 204,645 students at 45 institutions….. their degree as reported in the Spring 2009 edition of Leadership Exchange, Solutions for •55% believe it is important to make a difference in the world, 52% believe it is important to give back to the Student Affairs Management community, 74% believe it is important to stand up for what they believe in

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Competition for Fastest Bed Long-standing tradition at Benedictine College

When Beds Fly

By Alzbeta Voboril

Reportedly held sporadically in the 1950s and 60s, bed racing has been an annual Homecoming event since 1971. It has undergone several transformations, but the main objective has remained the same: get your team’s bed to the finish line faster than every other team.

“Benedictine is just built on tradition…I think keeping in mind the people that come back…we still do a lot of stuff they used to do; it just kind of builds more of a family within all Benedictine graduates,” said Lorenzo Nunez, Class of 2010. Nunez is the Student Government Association executive board vice president and co-lead ambassador and a bed race participant for the past three years, competing on the winning team each of those years.

At one time, the challenge included the “driver” of the bed having the additional responsibility of getting an egg in one piece from the starting line to the finish line. Even if a team had the best time, if they broke their egg, they would not be the winners.

Teams are divided by residence halls, with an overall, a women’s, a men’s

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and a co-ed prize awarded. A trophy is awarded to the winners, as well as bragging rights for the following year.

“It’s not something you hear about every day…strapping wheels to a bed-frame and racing through town,” said Luke Cairney, ’05, the current director of student activities.

“Not many colleges across America are doing it…but I think it’s also important for students because there is some solidarity within your dorm, it’s a competition. It’s something that is wild, is fun and is relatively safe.”

Cairney participated in bed races in 2001-2005 and was a part of winning teams in both ’02 and ’04.

The original beds used in the race were bunk beds. However, the bulkiness of these put more stress on the wheels and runners and in the following years, beds were reduced to one level and have continually been improved in their racing capabilities.

“The beds have gotten sleeker and more aerodynamic, more out of necessity than anything else,” said Cairney, who has built his fair share of beds in his time at Benedictine.

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Several weeks before the race date, opposing dorms plot to steal and hide each other’s beds, causing anywhere from minimal to massive mischief.

Damage done can include anything from a new paint job to an accidental dropping of the bed in the river.

“Senior year was the year that we threw the one in the river,” Cairney said. “It was Newman Hall’s bed; it was the bed we had built two years before. They were talking big and so three of us off campus students broke in and stole it and we were going to hang it off of the bridge, and one thing led to another and it ended up in the water…spent the entire next day welding a new bed together. It was way better, the best one we ever built.”

“My memory of the bed races is one of rivalry between the South and North campuses,” said Katie (Cyr) ’88 Corrigan Toews, who lived in Hemmen Hall for her four years at BC. “I remember the route was much longer, as it started from South and traveled across town to North campus.

I recall no one wanted the leg that included pushing the bed over the 5th Street Viaduct--and it was equally challenging to keep up with the flying

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Right: 1972 bedrace.

Bottom Left: Nate Taylor, rides to glory with help of Christopher Ursanic, Derek Lyssy, Jeffrey Powell, Matthew Denker. Newman Hall bedrace champions from 2007.

bed as it sped down the other side!”

In the last several years, the bed races have been won by: (consecutively) Courtney S. Turner Hall, Newman Hall and Ferrell Hall.

“Running in the bed races is… I think a good word for it would be… exhilarating,” explained Nunez. “You get really nervous before the race actually starts, and then once you start running you get ridiculously tired, but when you finish your leg…you just want to know what happens at the end.”

Every year, students experience the joys and trials of racing through the streets of Atchison. The hills, especially, often pose problems to racers.

“I remember turning the corner

coming down on Division (Street) and this bed was just flying, there was literally nobody pushing it, nobody had control of this thing,” laughed Nunez. “And Nate Taylor was just driving it, yelling, ‘Come on guys, push harder, push harder’ and he was just rolling down this hill by himself!”

Re-live the

TRADITION

The upcoming bed races of 2009 will have more beds than ever. There will be little room in the streets this fall with additional entries from the new apartment-style residence halls (Wolf and Kremmeter), as well as the revival of the “alumni bed.” Whether the legs of the “pushers” will hold up or not is yet to be determined, but this Homecoming tradition seems to be stronger than ever.

Homecoming October 24 & 25

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Drawings by Luke Quinn, ’07

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Reflections on

Community

at Benedictine College

By Joseph F. Wurtz, ’99 Dean of Students

I feel I can speak to the strength of this community’s gravitational pull.

My experience of this sense of community as a student has only been trumped by my experience of it as a staff member.

Like many alumni, I am extremely proud of my alma mater. It amazes me that I am approaching my 10-year reunion! Such an occasion allows me to reflect on the important ways that Benedictine College has affected my life. I cannot begin to express my gratitude to the professors who invested their very lives in me; professors like Jean Rioux, Doc Scholz, Ted Sri, Edward Macierowski, and Richard White not only taught me the beauty of the Catholic intellectual tradition, they inspired me to wonder.

In addition to my professors, I stand in humble appreciation for the administration and staff who challenged me to accomplish greater things for Benedictine College. Dean Elmer Fangman, ’57, President Dan Carey, ’68, Matt Hecker, ’79, Fr. Meinrad Miller, ’89, and Fr. Brendan Rolling, ’93, were courageous leaders who blazed many a trail for me to follow. For the witness of their lives and their words of encouragement I am truly indebted.

I am convinced that a significant part of my love for Benedictine College is due to the people I mentioned above, but there is another group that is responsible for my allegiance: the students. As conventional wisdom suggests, the friends one makes in college will be the friends one retains for life. Here at BC, my friendships were forged in the classroom, the café, the residence halls, the rugby pitch, St. Martin’s Chapel, and at

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the fire pit. Whether it was jamming on guitar on the third floor of St. Augustine, participating in a Bible study in Newman, cramming into a car for Daylight Donut runs at 2 a.m., playing intramural basketball, or lifting weights at midnight in the Amino Center, these things transpired in good company.

I am certain that my experiences as an undergraduate at BC are shared by many alumni. In fact, the presence of so many alumni on the faculty, staff, and Board of Directors is the best evidence for this claim. As one who is on his third tour of duty in this regard, I feel I can speak to the strength of this community’s gravitational pull. My experience of this sense of community as a student has only been trumped by my experience of it as a staff member.

One example does not suffice, but it may illustrate my point.

When I decided to return to BC last spring, I received phone calls and emails welcoming me and my family back to campus with the additional offer to help us in any way. Of course I was touched by the offer, but I did not anticipate the need for assistance… that is until I saw the moving truck.

It took nearly a day to load that semi, so I did not hesitate to put out a call to my friends at BC to help unload. I was honored when nearly 20 people arrived at the appointed time and unloaded that semi in under an hour.

Moreover, we had a steady stream of guests come by the house over the next

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Below: Tucker Porter, ’04, Brian Bickford, ’02, Nathan Stanley, ’03, Alex Murray, Fr. Brendan Rolling, OSB, ’93, Wurtz, ’99, Dave LeBlanc and Andy Remstad.

36 hours. Talk about homecoming!

The beauty of this incident was that it confirmed what I had been saying about BC during the four years while I was away. Yet I know that I was not alone in singing BC’s praises from afar.

great Catholic colleges in America.

It is the dedication of these people who strive valiantly for an authentic community, animated by the Holy Spirit, to be united in the same mind and in the same purpose (1 Cor. 1:10).

From Denver, Colorado to Washington, D.C., I have heard the common observation from non-BC folks that there is something vibrant and unique about the community at Benedictine. What makes this so?

Over the years I have devised several plausible explanations for this: 1) we have a readily identifiable fight song, 2) we have BC t-shirts for every occasion, 3) we have Fr. Meinrad, and 4) we have beanies. Seriously though, everyone knows Fr. Meinrad!

Let me conclude with a brief challenge to all who wish to see Benedictine College achieve its great potential.

Our history is impressive, our mission and values are clear, but our alma mater exists in a precarious culture. In 21st century America, an institution of higher learning by definition is an institution where skepticism, politicking, and diversity rule the day.

These institutions may boast of cutting

In reality, what makes BC an impressive community is the faculty, staff, administration, students, and alumni who work tirelessly towards building BC into one of the

edge research, opulent endowments, and seemingly unlimited choice yet, such institutions do not experience community.

Community is built and sustained on a core of common convictions and no institution can maintain a

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Opposite: Joe and Megan Wurtz with children, from left to right, Anthony, Mary, and Boniface

healthy community without pursuing their common aims and possessing a willingness to work in harmony and consort. Such a community allows for a complementary diversity as long as there are shared conceptions of the essentials. For modern academe, such a position would be scandalous, but we at BC operate by a different standard.

It is no mere coincidence that Benedictine College and the apparitions of our Lady of Lourdes have the same sesquicentennial celebration. Our Lady’s call to all of us for greater unity and peace throughout the world can only be achieved through prayer and a deeper love for Jesus Christ and His Church.

And who can teach us this best but a little peasant girl who was allowed the honor of seeing the Virgin Mary.

And He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts, and lifted up those of low degree (Lk 1:51-52).

Let us always remember that it is the Lord who has bestowed many blessings upon our Benedictine community because we remember that humility, fear of the Lord, and charity to all people are central to a flourishing community (RB 72). Therefore, if Benedictine College wishes to see its community prosper into its next 150 years, we, as its current stewards, must practice a heroic commitment to our common Catholic heritage.

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Beanies

By Steve Johnson

Benedictine College is one of the few colleges in America still observing the tradition of its freshmen wearing beanies. Not only is it a long-standing tradition going back longer than anyone can remember, the woman who currently makes the beanies has done so for the last 23 incoming freshman classes.

Carol Keithline, of Kansas City, Kansas, has hand-sewn hundreds of beanies each year since 1986 when her son, Jeff, then a student leader at Benedictine, asked her to help out.

“Jeffrey came to me and wanted me to do it,” she said. “And I told him to give me a beanie so I could see what it looked like. Once I saw one, I made a pattern, cut the fabric, and started sewing.”

“It’s really quite an extensive process,” added her husband, H.B. “It’s a very time-consuming project each year.”

With two sons, Jeff ’88 and Jerry ’90, graduating from the college, the Keithline’s have had plenty of involvement with Benedictine. From football and soccer games to family weekends, Carol and H.B. have been supporters and fans for a long time. After almost 20 years since their youngest son graduated, the couple is still committed to BC and its beanies.

Carol said. “They got a great education and they still have a lot of good friends from there and I’d just like to keep (the beanie tradition) going. Each year they call me and I start cutting.”

In appreciation of their extensive commitment to one of the rich traditions of Benedictine College, the school recognized both Carol and H.B. Keithline with the Benedictine Family Award in 2005. Overall, ties run deep between the Keithlines and the Benedictine communities of Atchison.

Both Carol and H.B. attended Benedictine-run Catholic high schools in Atchison. HB. graduated from Maur Hill Prep School in 1952, then served in the Navy during the Korean War. He came back to Atchison for one semester and attended St. Benedict’s College (now Benedictine College) in 1957. He retired in 1991, following a 30-year career with ColgatePalmolive.

Carol (Miller) Keithline graduated from Mount St. Scholastica Academy in 1957. She graduated from Gards

Business College in St. Joseph, Mo., and worked at the Social Security Administration until 1967. She spent eight years on the Piper School Board and spent 16 years as the chairperson for the Precinct Committee. She spends much of her free time volunteering for community education.

Legacy ties to Benedictine College also run deep in HB. and Carol’s family; daughter-in-law Julie Branch Keithline is a 1989 graduate; Carol’s brother, Ronald Miller, attended St. Benedict’s College from 1962-63, and other siblings, Burnace and Linda Miller, Melvin and Ruth Miller, Richard and the late Dorothy Miller, and Sug Miller McGuire, each have had children attend or graduate from the College.

They include: Rick Miller, ’80, Pat Miller, who attended 1978-79; Debbie Miller Van Larr, ’83, Scott Miller, ’86, Paul Miller, ’88, Mark Miller, ’90, Kelli Miller Nichols, ’00, Mike McGuire, ’94, and David Miller, who attended 1991-92. Carol’s godchild, Barb (Miller) Holder, a 1979 graduate, is a current BC employee and recent graduate of the College’s Executive MBA program.

The Keithlines are the parents of four children, Dana Carroll, Jay, Jeffrey, and Jerry, and spend much of their free time spoiling their grandchildren and working on the family farm.

“I’m glad the boys went to Benedictine,” Mount St. Scholastica College beanie, circa 1959

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By Alzbeta Voboril

St. Benedict’s College beanie circa 1964

ickford, ’03

By Megan B

CAW ON

For generations, every freshman passing through Mount St. Scholastica College, St. Benedict’s College, or Benedictine College has worn a beanie. Today, they are worn for the first week of school, but in the past, it was for as long as a month. It gives each freshman class a chance to bond and helps identify new students on campus. Each May, many beanies can be spotted peaking out from beneath mortar boards.

Beanies, Beanie Banquets and cawing are some of the longest standing traditions on campus and make BC unique in the community of higher education.

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LoveU Over the decades, there have been many college students, first from Mount St. Scholastica College and St. Benedict’s College, and then from coed Benedictine College, who have fallen in love. Although this may happen on college campuses across the nation, the difference here is the volume of matrimonial unions and their success. Even on campus today, there are more than a dozen Benedictine engagements. The interviews contained on the next several pages, while interesting and entertaining, will help explain why these relationships have flourished over the years.

Interviews conducted by Megan Bickford, ’03

Stephen, ’82, and Amy (Kohake) ’84, Minnis

You fall in love walking the campus, in the presence of St. Benedict Amy (Kohake), ’84 Minnis

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munity com AMY: We did, yes. (giggles) STEPHEN: A bunch of our buddies were there and they made fun of us because we were actually on a real date, which was kind of taboo, having a real date. But it was fun, they gave us these little helium balloons on the way out.

AMY: And I saved mine, I still have my balloon.

Q: What was the helium balloon for?

AMY: It had to do with the play. I don’t remember exactly.

STEPHEN: I don’t know, I couldn’t keep my eyes off of her, so I really didn’t pay much attention.

AMY: We can’t remember a thing about the play, we were so into each other.

STEPHEN: We were. And then we went for a long walk. That was okay. When you don’t have any money at Benedictine College, what do you do? You go for long walks.

AMY: Back by the cemetery.

STEPHEN: Yeah we went back by the cemetery. So we’d sit on the bench out there by the cemetery, it was kind of odd, you know. (laughs) AMY: But don’t you think here at Benedictine, its all about the walks.

STEPHEN: Right.

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STEPHEN: Our first date was April 8, 1981 in the theater which is now the Mabee Theatre . We went to a play the Wednesday before our first real date which was supposed to be the prom of that year, and that was a Saturday night. So, I decided to ask her to this play. We had fun, right?

AMY: You fall in love walking the campus, in the presence of St. Benedict.

STEPHEN: That’s right, watching over you.

Q: Do you remember the first time you ever saw Steve?

AMY: Well, Steve says it was the first week of my freshman year.

STEPHEN: Okay, so this is how it happened. I was chasing her the whole time. She doesn’t remember me at all. I’m standing in front of the cafeteria, literally the first week of her freshman year and my junior year, 1980. I remember that because she still has her beanie on. She walks down the hill and stands in front of the cafeteria with her new friend Melanie Smith. I’m an R.A. and I’m talking with my boss, Denny Murphy, my dorm director at the time. Denny just happened to coach football at Nemaha Valley High School, in Seneca, Kansas, when Amy was there, too. So he starts going “Oh, hi Amy, how are you doing?” He knew Melanie because Melanie had an older sister who was dating a football player and coach Murphy was a football coach. And so they were kind of gabbing a little bit and he introduces me to Amy and I thought, “aw, that is one really cute little girl.” So then of course she doesn’t have anything to do with me. My buddies and I would hang out, waiting for the girls to walk by and of course every time little Amy would walk by I’d say, well there goes my “fw”, which stood for “future wife.”

Anyway, my buddies would give me trouble and you know I didn’t want to embarrass myself in front of my friends, so I kept pursuing and pursuing and pursuing. I tried everything. I think our first dance actually was Rockhurst weekend, her freshman year and my junior year. Finally, I was going to ask her to prom. I got all excited about it.

I had made little notes, and then called her on the phone.

AMY: The first thing he said, “Um hi, something about this is Steve Minnis. I was

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Q: Tell me a little bit about how you met.

Steve&AMY

wondering if you’d go to homecoming with me.” (laughing) And it was prom. So, I’m like, homecoming is quite a ways away, but sure. And he did have notes.

STEPHEN: I had little notes. So then after I asked her and she said yes, I was so excited I ran from my dorm, which was Memorial Hall, over to Newman Hall and of course who do I see walking out, but Amy. AMY: A girlfriend and I were going to go jogging and we run into him and I was like, hi?

STEPHEN: She wasn’t even really sure if it was me, though.

AMY: Well, you know there was a Steve McCann who went here, as well as Steve Minnis, and so when he called and said “Hi this is Steve Minnis” it totally shocked me, whoever you are and would you want to go to homecoming with me, blah blah blah. So, you know I kind of liked this Steve Minnis and this Steve McCann, they both seemed like pretty nice guys but I wasn’t quite sure which one had really asked me.

STEPHEN: So, I’m anxious to hear when you first remembered me, because I know specifically all the things.

AMY: You know what, the first time I really remember you was this girl named Cathy Rauch was a homecoming queen candidate or something and Steve was her escort. And I went to the pep rally and I just remember, I’ve told you this before, you know everybody back then had long hair and his haircut is really the same as it was then, so it was all slicked back and short and he was kind of prepier than any of the other boys on campus, you know, so I’m kind of like going gosh, you know he’s kind of cute. I don’t know his name, he’s escorting Cathy Rauch. He looks different from everybody else, why doesn’t he have hippie hair? So, that was the first time I noticed you and then, like I said, I didn’t know you. I knew his name was Steve, but…

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Q: You knew it had to be Steve “something.”

AMY: Yeah. But then when I came back at Christmas time to go register for class we were over on South and he and his sister gave me and my girlfriends a ride back to North campus and I remember that, too.

STEPHEN: Yeah, Amy was in the back and I kept looking in my rearview mirror at her and thinking how cute she was. And I was trying to be really funny.

AMY: HE is such a liar.

STEPHEN: I was trying to be really funny so she would laugh.

AMY: And I was looking out the window going “I’m so homesick.”

STEPHEN: And who is this goober trying to be funny all the time.

AMY: Yeah he was really “smooth.” It didn’t even dawn on me that he was interested in me.

Q: You just thought he was a nice guy?

AMY: Yeah, it just seemed like such a strange thing. Now it seems like it was so obvious, but it just didn’t quite click with me. But there were a lot of us in the same situation, then. A lot of those junior boys dated a lot of my girlfriends, and then a lot of them got married, too.

Q: Really?

AMY: Yeah it’s really pretty funny.

Q: So how long did you date before you got married?

STEPHEN: Well, we started April 8, 1981, a nice spring night. And we dated all the rest of that year, the rest of senior year and then three years of law school.

We got married in 1985. So we dated four years. Only one here at Benedictine, though.

AMY: He graduated from law school in May and then we got married June 8, and he still needed to pass the bar, you know.

I was making $12,000 a year in a little school in Kansas City, Kansas. The day he passed the bar, he called me at school and

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then we went to Ward Parkway Mall and bought him his first suit. And I think we went out for dinner. It was the first time we’d gone out for dinner since we were married. It was like what, McDonalds? No it was Pizza Hut. STEPHEN: What was cool was a lot of folks go through those times where you have all these Raven weddings. Probably for a five to eight year period of time we were going off to weddings every summer, and we had the most fun. And actually the more fun weddings were the ones in the small towns, because you had to all go there, you had to all get in that hotel there and stuff like that. So we went to Nebraska City three times for weddings. We went to Aurora, Nebraska, and they all came to Seneca, Kansas for our wedding. We really had a lot of fun. The Raven weddings were really fun because you had everybody from your era there.

Q: So you’ve been married for almost 25 years now.

STEPHEN: You know I think one of the things about us, Raven couples, is that people that come to Benedictine College are self-selecting. So all of a sudden you have a high likelihood of finding a mate that you’re going to be a lot alike. You know you have the same values, you know things that she believes in. It’s a huge difference in raising a family. The same faith, the same beliefs, the same kind of background really makes a huge difference.

AMY: I had someone tell me once that, because Steve and I talk forever and ever, we really will talk, and we don’t like lulls, so if there is a lull, one of us usually fills it in. Anyway, a girlfriend of mine was saying how she could never talk to her husband, she goes “you know he must be your soul mate” and I thought, you know, it took her to tell me that, but, yes, I guess you’re right, he is. I think it’s all about communication.

STEPHEN: Right, yeah. A lot of times she’ll communicate and I just say “yes dear.” Right? (laughs) We had a great date life, great marriage. We’ve really had fun.

Probably the worst day has actually been our wedding day. It was so stressful, you know.

AMY: Oh yeah. We had a kind of bad wedding. It was 108 degrees outside and I’m wearing my mom’s dress, satin with

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long sleeved in a church with no airconditioning.

STEPHEN: But we had all our buddies there, it was really fun. I had two best men because they were my two best friends from Benedictine, Lester Hubble and Davis “Bad Boy” Brown. So, that was kind of neat.

They both escorted her sister down the aisle.

She’s also a Benedictine College grad.

AMY: Renee Washburn, Renee Kohake then. So, it was just a real big Benedictine party. It was so fun. And those friends are all like you, having the same experiences, and they stay your friends. Yeah, it was fun…In the end. (laughs) And you know, I don’t know that we realized it, I think all of our friends are all still married to their Benedictine spouses.

Q: There are a lot of engaged Benedictine couples today. What would your best advice be to them?

AMY: Never forget the words to the Raven Fight Song. (laughs) Gosh, communication, pray together.

STEPHEN: Yes, prayer is really important.

I think having the new Grotto on our campus is going to be a great place to be.

Now, I hear these kids get engaged in the Abbey Church or out on the bluffs and things like that. That’s really neat, but I predict the Grotto will be the next big spot for engagements. I think that will be really special and it will give them a place to go when they come back to visit campus.

AMY: They’ll feel Mary is a part of their lives. And they’ll keep Her a part of their lives as they grow.

Dean&MARYELLEN Dean ’57 and Mary Ellen (Curran) ’58 Diederich Q: When was the first time you met?

Dean: We were both a part of the singing group, mixed chorus, and so we had contact there and then I guess at a basketball game, she sat right behind me and that was when the bug bit.

Mary Ellen: But I didn’t know it at the time. We had a party after Christmas Break because we worked real hard on the Christmas Cantata. It was at that dance when he asked me to go out on the dance floor. That was the second semester my freshman year. We dated all through school and then he went to OCS, Officer Candidate School, and we were married then after I graduated. So we had a lot of letters that last year.

Q: Do you still have them?

Mary Ellen: I do, I do, and we are celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary this summer. I got them out for fun to read through them. I must say Benedictine was a pretty nice foundation for building a family life.

Q: how many children DO YOU HAVE? Mary Ellen: Ten, thirty-six grandchildren, and this summer we will have three great-grandchildren arriving, our first great-grandchildren.

Q: WOW. THAT IS BEAUTIFUL. dEAN, What ARE SOME OF YOUR MOST VIVID memories OF campus?

Dean: I guess the camaraderie of my floor mates. I lived in Memorial Hall. We were just kinda like brothers and we would do anything for any of the group and nobody dared cross our line. I guess we were a little bit over the edge of that line. I still have contact with a lot of those kids, people, who lived on second floor of Memorial Hall. Then, I suppose I appreciate it so much now, we went to daily Mass.

In those days it wasn’t an option, you just did it. It gives you that background of closeness to things that were true and genuine. All the priests are gone, my major professor just died, Father Gilbert. I majored in sociology and I just saw his passing. When I go back up to the church and look around and I imagine I am going to see all these old priests that were so dear to me as far as being mentors. But I guess that is just what life is, it passes on, it moves on.

Mary Ellen: Our memories of the campus are wonderful. The nuns were amazing, giving people too. They tried to make the Mount a home away from home and it really became a second home.

Q: What did you take away from your time around THE SISTERS? Mary Ellen: Like we said, there was a tremendous spiritual influence here that you really cling to through your life and anything that happens. We lost a 21 year old son in a farm accident. But you have that basis of faith that helps you through anything, I think. It was a wonderful foundation, I think, for whatever was to come.

Q: Do you have any relatives at Benedictine now?

Mary Ellen: We are excited because we have two of our grandkids attending this year. We know that Benedictine has that same spirituality on campus that was here when we were here and so that really excites me that they are going to be coming here too.

Q: Your legacy just keeps living on…

Both: (smiling at each other)Yes.

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Matt&MEGAN Matt and Megan pose with their Benedictine College friends.

friends in the Omaha area. So we made plans to see each other. Then on my birthday, June first, Matt asked me to go out, but I thought we were just going as friends, but he had the idea already that it was kind of a date.

Matt: We went to go see Shadowlands at the Community Playhouse in Omaha, so it was kind of interesting.

Megan: It was a great night out, but I had no idea what was going on.

Matt: So we went to dinner, we saw Shadowlands, which was about the life of C.S. Lewis, and we just started hanging out from there.

Matt, ’98 and Megan (Masur) ’97 Fassero Q: Tell me a little about how you two met.

Matt: It was my freshman year, Megan’s sophomore year, during what was then Omega Week, now ROC Week, orientation for freshmen. Megan was one of the Omega leaders and we were heading up the hill to a program in Westerman Hall. I had a Nebraska shirt on, since I grew up in Bellevue, Nebraska. Megan is from Omaha, Nebraska. And so when we got up there, Megan said, ‘Hey, I’m from Nebraska, too.’ And we just kind of chatted for a little bit. That’s how we first met.

Megan: And then the next time we saw each other, Matt had come up to my suite, Suite G in McDonald, to buy a book from one of my suitemates, so we connected again. I said, “Hey, you’re the guy from Nebraska!” At the time, my roommate and I had just come back to college and we realized we had way too much furniture for our room, and I thought maybe this guy from Nebraska might like to take care of one of my pieces of furniture. So I asked him if he wanted to have a coffee table

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that had belonged to my grandpa. So he took it and the next time I saw it in his room he had totally fixed it. He had tightened all the legs up and everything and I was pretty impressed with that. Then after that we just became friends. We had a lot of friends in common and a lot of interests in common, so we saw each other a lot during that year.

Q: When did you first feel you had a crush on Megan?

Matt: Well, this is tough. Megan was in Suite G and all the girls in Suite G were kind of like these amazing women. The guys I hung around with thought they were all great. We had a lot of respect for them.

They were older than we were. They were just very nice and genuinely good people.

We did everything with them. We would go on camping trips, hiking, or go to the pond.

We went to the March for Life together.

But a crush on Megan, specifically, was probably the summer of 1995.

Megan: That’s when we went back to the Omaha area for the summer. Classes were over and we both went to live with our parents for the summer and we realized we were the only two out of our group of

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It was a moment where we both just knew... Our four years at Benedictine were just wonderful.

Megan (Masur) ’97 Fassero Megan: Yeah, so we just kept spending time together. Then we both realized that we were really…we were falling in love, on July 11, the Feast of St. Benedict. We had decided we would drive down together for Father Brendan Rolling’s vows.

Matt: Father Brendan had just joined the monastery a year or two before and we both knew him and Kenny Rolling lived right across the hall from me and was one of my two best friends all through college.

So we knew Father Brendan and we were going to come down for his vows. We decided to drive down together and spend the day, went to the ceremonies over at the Abbey, talked to Father Brendan for a long time after that, and finally headed back up to Omaha.

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Q: Who said it first?

Matt: Megan.

Megan: (laughing) I was going to say you! I really don’t remember, honestly. Do you?

Matt: I think it was you.

Megan: Okay, so I guess it was me. I said it first.

Matt: It was kind of like jointly. It was kind of at the same time. We just knew.

Megan: Yeah, it was a moment where we both just knew. We absolutely feel blessed to have been at Benedictine and to have fallen in love on campus, and to have had such a great group of friends, priests and religious to have inspired us to live a great life. Our four years at Benedictine were just wonderful.

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Megan: It was on the way home that we both confessed to each other that we were falling in love.

my faith. I’m not sure what it would have been like if they weren’t there, because they were clearly the main instruments in helping that happen. It was a fun time for me, and formative as well. I think if you look at the values you would want, and a real zeal for life, I learned it from those guys.

Megan: When we look back at our wedding pictures I just think we were so young we had no idea what we were really getting into. We didn’t realize that there are a lot of hard things that come with it, but we knew we were in it together and the whole point was to help each other in our ultimate goal, which is to live holy lives.

Megan: I think what we learned at Benedictine, and the big thing for us, is keeping our faith at the center of our lives. And a real emphasis on family and friendship.

Matt: I always tease Megan that she has a harder job than I do when it comes to that. (both laughing) But I think that’s the truth. You have to try to realize that nobody’s perfect and one, live with them, and two, help them be better.

Matt: And that’s huge. The lasting friendships are important. Kenny and Joe were the best men at our wedding and we’re still close.

Q: To what do you attribute your success in marriage?

Matt: The fact that we had a little epiphany and knew that this was happening on July 11 was kind of neat. We got married pretty quickly after I graduated. I graduated in December of 1997 and we got married in June of 1998. We’ve been married for 10 years now.

Megan: We’ll be married 11 years on June 27 of this year. And we’ve kept in contact with all of our Benedictine friends. They’ve been inspiring to us through the years.

Q: What things did you get from Benedictine College that you carried into your marriage?

Matt: For me, it was Kenny Rolling and Joe Heidesch, friends who were the largest factors for the, I guess, renewal of

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Fr. Brendan Rolling, OSB, ’93

A Community of Fr. Brendan Rolling, OSB, ’93 Director for Mission & Ministry “I beg you to give Jesus to the young people in your care.” Blessed Mother Teresa delivered this simple message when she visited Mount St. Scholastica Monastery in 1981. Benedictine College has been passing the faith on to each generation for 150 years.

From the beginning, the Benedictine Order understood that faith in Christ is the greatest benefit of a Catholic, Benedictine, liberal arts and residential education.

The year Plato’s Academy closed and the light of ancient learning went out, St. Benedict arrived at the summit of Monte Cassino to open a “school of the Lord’s service.” He built five things: a church to worship in, a monastery to imitate the life of the apostles, a farm for food, a library for study, and a school for education. The light of Catholic learning was ignited.

More than a millennium later, his monastic schools have generated the modern university. When our founders arrived in Atchison, Kansas, they built the same five things.

Our first Abbot, Father Innocent Wolf, said, “God, as long as thou wilt.” Our founding Prioress, Mother Evangelista Kremmeter, said. “I will dedicate myself to the service of God forever.” Like St. Benedict and St. Scholastica, our founders believed in the benefits of Catholic Benedictine education.

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Faith

Faith strengthened early generations and helped them conquer the challenges of their day. During studies in Rome, monks from Atchison would fast and use the saved money to buy books for the frontier. As they taught, sisters from Atchison would sacrifice the security of a regular salary to educate the children of pioneering families. Married men and women, professionals, and laborers moved to Atchison to invest in today’s Benedictine College. These amazing people survived the Civil War, the Great Depression, and two World Wars. They were faithful to the story for over 100 years.

In the wake of the new millennium, many at Benedictine thought the Faith was in trouble. When the Abbey Church was built in 1957, the college’s 100th anniversary, enrollment was strong and college chapels were packed on Sunday. Yet, in just a few decades, enrollment at Benedictine’s two parent institutions dropped to historic lows. Across America, attendance in every church plummeted. Vocations to the priesthood, brotherhood, and sisterhood went down, and the marriage crisis began. Martin Luther King and Robert F. Kennedy were assassinated in 1968. It was the height of the Vietnam conflict; students protested; and truths were questioned. It was the Cold War. The Faith seemed to be in trouble and Benedictine College’s halls and chapels echoed in the absence of young people.

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Then things began to change. In 1978, an unknown Polish cardinal stepped into St. Peter’s Square as Pope John Paul II. His message was, “be not afraid.” Catholic confidence grew at home. Within a decade, Benedictine College appointed its first lay president, Dr. Thomas James. In 1995, President Dan Carey recommitted Benedictine College to its four pillar mission: Catholic, Benedictine, Liberal Arts, and Residential. A decade later, Benedictine College’s Board of Directors voted to renovate a hall they once thought unsalvageable. Today that hall is the state-of-the-art Ferrell Hall. In 1998 the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) was founded on Benedictine’s campus.

Their small group Bible Study, one-onone mentorship and group leadership development began to transform the spiritual lives of students. Today, FOCUS is flourishing on more than 39 college and university campuses nationwide. Benedictines have always promoted Scriptural literacy through manuscripts, lectio divina … and now that has spread across the country through a youth movement founded on our campus.

The College Chaplain, Fr. Meinrad Miller, ’89, returned from seminary and energized students with a vibrant commitment to Eucharistic Adoration and an enhanced devotional life.

Hundreds of Benedictine College students joined the new Civil Rights movement: the pro-life movement.

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ship r a l un comm ity s ch Christ conquers fear with faith.

During the storm at sea he asks the disciples, “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?” (Mark 4:40) He grants miracles because of faith, even if it is the size of a mustard seed. (Luke 17:5) Testimony in the Book of Acts tells us that as the first Christians were “strengthened in the faith, they increased in numbers daily.” (Acts 16:5)

The Benedictine College miracle is due to the faith of many and our numbers increase daily. Enrollment grew 85 percent in 10 years. Hiring is up. Construction is up. Retention and graduation rates are climbing.

Mass attendance is strong. This year’s freshman class is the largest class in the college’s history. Some things did go away. Vandalism costs were reduced by 40 percent and discipline reports dropped 50 percent. The change was good. Benedictine College put its mission first. By prioritizing Catholic identity, Benedictine hospitality, liberal arts thinking, and residential living, we were renewed.

Positive change continues at Benedictine today. Studies say almost 80 percent of all students stop practicing their faith during college.

At Benedictine, we estimate that 80 percent of our students regularly

attend Mass and Sunday services.

Our students are making an heroic choice, fighting the tide by making God the high-point of their week at Sunday Mass. Over 30 Ravens have entered discernment programs for the priesthood, brotherhood, or sisterhood in the past year and a half. More than 40 alumni have served or are serving as FOCUS missionaries nationwide at places like the University of St. Thomas and the U.S. Naval Academy.

Benedictine Bible studies have expanded from two in 1998 to 44 this year (2,200 percent growth). College Ministry has expanded to meet the spiritual needs of youth.

Now in its 28th year, the Prayer Partner program of Mount St. Scholastica Monastery has kept Benedictine students and the Sisters of the Mount happily engaged. More

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On October 1, 2004, one of the Sprint Corporation’s top attorneys moved with his family to serve at Benedictine College. Steve; ’82, and Amy Minnis, ’84, both alumni, were inspired by their faith in Christ and a devotion to Mary. The first time President Minnis stepped to the podium in the Abbey Church, his message was “Be not afraid.”

than 80 students signed up to have a sister as a partner in prayer and some are even second generation. The program has deepened the faith and understanding of many students and continues to strengthen the bond with the Sisters.

Berthold Indian Reservation in North Dakota.

Over 60 students volunteer for our Retreat Team as they give Confirmation retreats throughout the four-state area of Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas. Over 1,000 high school students will participate in a Benedictine College retreat by year’s end. We serve the needs of the entire student body: 66 percent of our activities are ecumenical, serving other Christians and students with no religious affiliation. We are serving the poor. This past Christmas, students shipped almost 2,000 non-perishable items to Central and South America, 105 students volunteer with our Service Team, and nearly 15 percent of the student body travelled thousands of miles for the National March for Life in Washington D.C. On top of that, three groups just returned from service trips to El Salvador, Belize, and the three affiliated Indian Tribes of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara at Fort

Houses were built, youth evangelized, and newborns baptized. There are over seven choirs that serve at weekly Masses, retreats, and prayer meetings.

The Holy See’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Archbishop Celestino Migliore, spoke to a standing-room only auditorium this spring. One guest said of Benedictine, “You hit a homerun.” Volunteers play basketball with the prisoners at Leavenworth.

There are frequently two and three confession lines before Sunday evening Masses. Benedictine College was founded the year our Lady appeared to St. Bernadette at Lourdes and we began construction of a Marian Grotto on the 150th anniversary of Our Lady of Lourdes. Benedictine students are part of what Pope John Paul called a New Evangelization and what Pope Benedict calls a New Pentecost. After decades, our halls and chapels are once again full of young people and they love their faith.

The Benedictine miracle is being recognized nationally. While in the 1980s Benedictine appeared in one of Playboy’s top ten party school lists, today U.S. News & World Report ranked Benedictine in its 2008 edition of “America’s Best Colleges.”

The Newman Guide to Choosing a Catholic College calls us “One of the Nation’s Top 20 Catholic Colleges;” and the Cardinal Newman Society says we are “one of the most impressive campus ministry programs in the nation.”

Faith has made Benedictine College a national leader among Catholic colleges and universities. As a community of faith, we live, work and worship together. We have moved from surviving to thriving. The Lord has blessed this special place and it is our turn to give Jesus to the next generation.

Papal Nuncio Welcomed at BC The Apostolic Nuncio and Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, Archbishop Celestino Migliore, delivered an address to a full house at Benedictine College in February as more than 500 students, area residents, and faculty and staff members packed the O’MalleyMcAllister Auditorium.

Three of the four bishops in Kansas, as well as the prioress of Mount St. Scholastica Monastery and the abbot of St. Benedict’s Abbey, also attended the presentation. Benedictine junior Katie Jansen welcomed the group

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in fluent Italian, and then led the Communion & Liberation Choir in song.

The speech was part of Benedictine’s Social Justice Week in conjunction with the Sesquicentennial Speakers Series and focused on the Catholic Church’s role in the U.N. As a matter of introduction, though, Archbishop Migliore clarified the distinction between the Holy See and the Vatican, noting that the Holy See is the recognized entity within the international community.

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faith He went on to explain that the Italian government created the Vatican city-state in 1929 as a means of guaranteeing the absolute freedom of the Pope. Quite simply, Vatican City is the sovereign territory over which the Holy See presides. While Vatican City is 80 years old, the Holy See dates back to early Christian times and is known to have sent an official delegation to the First Council of Nicaea in 325 A.D. The Holy See is the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Rome, commonly known as the Pope, and is the central government of the Catholic Church. It functions diplomatically and maintains relations with 177 countries.

Migliore stated that the Holy See is a permanent observer at the United Nations, rather than a full member, but he pointed out that they could perform almost all the tasks of a member…except voting. He said he adheres to a threepoint mission at the U.N. “We are there to add to the debate on current issues, we are there to help build consensus on the issues, and we are there to give a voice to those who have no voice,” he said.

Pope John Paul II named Archbishop Migliore to the post at the United Nations in 2002. During his time at the U.N., he has dealt with issues such as women’s rights, HIV/ AIDS, global health, the ozone layer, children, rightto-life, the disabled, the environment and international peace-building. He explained that he always tries to use non-religious language and bases arguments on “the light of human reason.”

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“Many people don’t realize the Vatican city-state is only 80 years old,” he said. “Quite young, don’t you think?”

Migliore said the Holy See is joined by many other nations on matters of social justice, but he is distressed to see that on right-to-life issues, very few countries side with them, often as few as four.

“So far, there is no mention of abortion in any international document,” he said. “And many other countries, as well as the United States Supreme Court, are referring to U.N. resolutions as precedent. We wanted to get language on abortion and the right to life in a resolution dealing with the disabled, and we lost. We always have to guarantee the right to life, so it is important for us to be there.”

He has noticed that ambassadors from many countries cannot speak their minds during debate on certain issues, but will quietly vote their minds later. Migliore is encouraged by increasing comments from other delegates.

“I am being told to keep speaking,” he said. “‘We need somebody that speaks the voice of reason and common sense,’ I am told more and more.”

Migliore’s visit to Benedictine was filled with meetings with students, diocesan staffers, college officials, and the Kansas bishops. The evening’s presentation also included a blessing on a piece of stone that will be a part of the new Marian Grotto, currently under construction in the center of campus. Significantly, that stone had been carved by the Benedictine monks in 1929 during construction of St. Benedict’s Abbey, which is located immediately adjacent to the college.

Archbishop Migliore celebrates Mass in St. Benedict’s Abbey Church with Prior James Albers, OSB, ’94, and Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB, ’51.

Story by Steve Johnson, photos by Megan Bickford, ’03.

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Nuncio Cont.

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H unger C oalitio n years of service

Feeding the Hungry

Back in the early 1980s, college students were facing much the same situation they are today. The economy had slipped into a recession.

Unemployment topped 10 percent. As a result, charitable giving was down and services for the underprivileged were suffering.

Today, the needy in Atchison look forward to having a nutritious meal delivered every Saturday by the Benedictine College Hunger Coalition. In the early 80s, no such group existed. Today, hundreds of BC students skip their Wednesday evening meal and the money goes toward providing food for sack lunches. Back then, the poor were left to fend for themselves. That was until some resourceful students, full of the Benedictine spirit and anxious to find a way to help, founded the Hunger Coalition.

It started with an event called “World Hunger Day” in 1984 and follow-up discussions among students on the World Hunger Committee. Taking part in those discussions were Joni (Brophy) Colwell, Tim Mullane and Dr. Richard Coronado, chair of the Department of Economics at BC and longtime Hunger Coalition advisor.

“I remember Tim was determined to take action,” said Coronado. “He kept saying, ‘We can’t just talk, we have to do something.’”

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By Steve Johnson

That something was a suggestion from Joni Brophy, who had participated in a sack lunch delivery project for the poor in her parish.

“Students had tried a skip-a-meal program, just once a semester, to raise money to send to Mother Teresa’s mission,” recalled Father Meinrad Miller, OSB, ’89, who was just a freshman in 1984 when the group began. That was what they needed and it was decided to move forward with a plan to do a weekly skip-a-meal and then feed the hungry of Atchison.

“Joni said ‘let’s do this’ and we went down to the cafeteria to talk to the staff,” recalled Coronado.

“They (cafeteria staff) were very accommodating.”

With that, the Hunger Coalition was born. At first, it was more of a loosely organized movement, but eventually a system of leadership and transition was established to give the group the necessary stability and continuity.

“It was pretty small at first,” said Fr. Meinrad. “It seems like it was only about 20 people skipping. But it was a start and it involved us going weekly to see the people of Atchison. I was a helper and Dave Armstrong and I were part of the group that first made deliveries.”

According to Coronado, the group started off with around 16 skipping dinner. That number went up to 40, and then 60, and then 85. They got names of shut-ins, needy families, and

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others from local service agencies and churches and delivered for about eight weeks at first.

“By the end of the fifth or sixth year, we had 100 students skipping,” Coronado said.

“Looking back, I think one of the greatest things about the Hunger Coalition is that connection between the students and the people of Atchison,” Fr. Meinrad said.

Joe Wurtz, ’99, also remembers the people he met while making deliveries for the Hunger Coalition.

“There was a little lady who invited us in to pray,” he said. “I can still remember her home and her prayer.

That was the most meaningful thing, when I did the delivery routes.”

That “little lady” is Georgia Dewey and, though she is on a special diet for her health, the Hunger Coalition continues to visit her on the “middle route” a decade after Wurtz graduated.

“We still drop in and visit Georgia,” said current Hunger Coalition President Meredith Stoops, a sophomore at Benedictine College.

“Even though we don’t deliver food to her anymore, we still stop by and pray.”

Affectionately known as Dr. C., Coronado had been interested in the group from the very beginning. He had become interested in Catholic social issues and was particularly

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Expanding Services

An article in the Kansas City Star during the summer of 1991 brought a man named Bill Ellis and an organization called Uplift to the attention of Dr. Coronado and the Hunger Coalition. Ellis and his group worked with the homeless in Kansas City, delivering clothing and supplies.

Coronado was impressed. moved by a Pastoral Letter on the Economy from the National Council of Catholic Bishops.

“That impressed me very much because I didn’t hear any other national voices speaking for the poor,” he said. He was motivated on both a personal level, becoming an activist for social justice issues, and on a professional level, having had economics papers on social responsibility published. As a result, while many student organizations have died out after interested students graduated and moved on, the Hunger Coalition has had a strong advocate to engage the next group of students.

Today and for the past five years, the Hunger Coalition has had an average of 400 students involved in the Skip-A-Meal program. Students, staff and faculty make and deliver sack lunches 52 weeks a year, with faculty and staff handling the duties when the student body is away from campus.

Bottom line, the Benedictine spirit has touched the lives of more and more disadvantaged families in Atchison and the trend seems to be solid.

“I have a feeling it will stay around 350 to 400 from now on,” said Coronado.

Tutoring is Added

In 1991, federal grants for tutoring in grade schools were cut. Public schools worked to find a way to help struggling elementary school students keep up with their lessons. School officials in Atchison, familiar with the Hunger Coalition’s work with the needy, called Dr. Coronado and asked for help.

Tutors were needed at Martin East and Martin West Elementary schools and the Hunger Coalition rose to the challenge.

“It is consistent with long term alleviation of hunger,” Coronado explained. “We’re helping to keep kids in school and giving them the opportunity to learn the skills that will allow them to prosper and take care of themselves as they grow up.”

Today, anywhere from 35 to 50 tutors help students at Atchison Elementary School. They volunteer to work with a student for at least 30 minutes once a week.

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“I called him up and asked if I could bring some students along,” he said.

“And we started by going down and helping him stock the van and make deliveries once a semester.”

The Hunger Coalition eventually formalized the partnership, going down to Kansas City once a month and now twice a month. Currently, Katy McDermott is the student organizer for Uplift, responsible for signing up participants and coordinating the visits.

“A commitment to social justice and social charity will be a condition for peace in the next century,” Coronado said. “If our students can come out of here (Benedictine College) with that sense of commitment to those most vulnerable, then the Hunger Coalition will have been a wild success.”

“It’s humbling knowing the momentum behind this,” said Stoops, the current president. “It’s just a special feeling knowing that there are 25 years of love and dedication to the people of Atchison.”

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A photo from the 1985 yearbook shows the Hunger Coalition’s founding group. Those in the group who didn’t make the picture were: Andrew Conroy, Patrice Crotty, Dave Goodwin, Stanley Miller, Stephanie Pino, and Duncan Teague.

A Report from the Front Lines BC Student’s Take on the March for Life

Nearly 170 BC students traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the 36th Annual March for Life on Jan. 22. Phillip Ervin was one of them. He and the group were invigorated by the fact that just two days before, one of the most pro-choice presidents in U.S. history had been sworn into office.

Here is Phillip’s story: President Barack Obama is on the verge of signing the Freedom of Choice Act, which has the potential to effectively reverse all prolife legislation passed in the 36 years since Roe v. Wade legalized abortion.

Furthermore, the mainstream media continues to turn a deaf ear to the voices crying out in support of those who don‘t have one. In over 20 minutes of searching the Internet, I found no truly journalistic publications covering the March other than a 400-word blurb on the Washington Times’ website.

An official number of March participants is never calculated by an objective source, with national and local writers using the term “thousands” or even venturing into the “tens of thousands” realm with their estimates.

Numbers for this year’s and last year’s Marches were unavailable at the time this article was written, but the March’s official website, marchforlife.org, indicates that an average of 200,000 individuals showed up for each march from 2003-2006.

If you’ve read this far, you realize this isn’t exactly a news piece. But I am a reporter. In that context, my job is to tell you, the reader, what I see. In an editorialized article such as this, I have the luxury of providing personal insight as well, but this is what I observed between 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22: I couldn’t move. In past years, space is wide-open during the March. This year, even though BC’s group was near the head of the pack walking on Constitution Avenue, there was very little room to even get my camera to eye level to snap a photo.

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The procession usually takes a little under an hour. We didn’t make it close to the Supreme Court building, where the March ends, in two. As we prayed the Rosary under the watchful eye of U.S. security guards on the steps of the house of our nation’s highest court, we were forced to move closer to the lawn as more and more marchers walked by.

It took another 45 minutes to reach Union Station, only blocks away, to catch a bus back to the hotel.

The physical aspect of this throng of prolife marchers can indicate one of two things: members of the pro-life movement have an undying fascination with walking as close as they can to those around them without tripping them, or there was a greater number of people at the March.

The crowd was generally comprised of members of the Generation Y students which we are part of, many from Catholic high schools and universities around the country. The collective look on their faces was one of resolve: “we will press on, no matter how tired, hungry, or out of energy we may appear.”

Those seeking to end the practice of abortion in America will walk, stagger, and crawl in seeking to carry out their cause.

When I am asked to report on an event for the Circuit, the student-run newspaper at Benedictine College, my focus is on the main essence of that event. Editorialized or not, one cannot devalue the enthusiasm of those at the March for Life.

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So here’s my report: the pro-life movement is alive and well in the hearts of young Catholics in the United States.

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Photo by Chris Rowden, ’02

Dr. Kimberly Shankman

A Catholic Approach to

scholarship Dr. Kimberly Shankman Dean of the College Addressing a gathering of Catholic educators during his historic visit to Washington, D.C. last year, Pope Benedict XVI said a hallmark of Catholic education is that it is based on a love for the students. You can imagine my pride at recognizing that sentiment as a longstanding facet of our Benedictine education. I can even recall a former faculty member who once described the unique atmosphere of Benedictine College, saying that at this college, our students expect to be loved by their faculty.

But what, exactly, does it mean to have love be the basis of our educational approach? Teachers loving students is in many ways similar to parents loving their children: it means giving them what they need even when it isn’t what they want (hence our hefty general education requirements, which are not always popular within the student body, but are necessary to give them the broad understanding that will make them successful both in college and in life).

It also means believing in them even when they don’t believe in themselves.

A wonderful example of this is Sr. Mary Blaise Cillessen, ’48, who has been a key part of the Benedictine College community for many years and is now an associate dean. She has worked with hundreds, maybe thousands of students who have been on the brink of academic dismissal.

She gets them to sign contracts

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committing to the work they must accomplish to be successful. She meets with them every day as long as they need it. If they start to miss class, she tracks them down. If they start to make excuses for why they can’t make the grade, she stops them with one of her favorite phrases: “we’re not going to go there.” She recommends tutoring, maps out study plans, and doesn’t let anyone get away with a bad attitude. This kind of love, some would call it “tough love,” has turned many of these hundreds of potential drop-outs into successful college graduates; people who today are raising families, running businesses, and contributing to their communities.

Florence, Italy to provide a chance for our students to spend a semester abroad. They take some of our general education classes as well as Italian language and culture, but just as important is that our Florence campus becomes a jumping-off point for travel throughout Europe. Last year, students on the Florence program traveled to every country in Europe except Lichtenstein and Romania (they also made it to Turkey and Malta).

Loving our students also means preparing them to be successful in their lives after college. That’s one reason we BC sophomore, Alicia Nuvolini, at the ruins of Karnak. constantly evaluate our academic programs, to make We are also working to help students sure that they are responsive to the see the global aspects of their studies changing world we live in. We know by integrating short-term international the world is getting smaller and our travel into many different types of students need to be comfortable in an courses. For example, this semester interconnected global environment. a biologist and a literature professor So, we have expanded the team-taught a course on the natural international opportunities we offer history and culture of Egypt, and our students. over Spring Break took the class on a tour of the ecological and cultural We have opened a campus in highlights of that country. The

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olarshi h c s community fa ith students who went on the trip then shared their knowledge with the rest of the community through a series of presentations at Discovery Day (our special celebration of student/faculty research).

We know that the shortage of health care professionals is quickly reaching crisis proportions that is why we are proud of the fact that we have responded to this need by developing a nursing program.

We also know that loving our students includes preparing them for the very real challenges they will face in their lives. Our society is facing a shortage of engineers we have forged a unique

Most of all, however, we know our world desperately needs leaders formed to cherish the welfare of others, to display loyalty to their communities and families, and to be committed to

an absolute dedication to personal integrity. This is exactly what we strive for in all aspects of the academic program at Benedictine College.

I’m proud to say the Holy Father has a vision for Catholic education that is the same as ours. It has been guiding us for more than 150 years, and we are confident it will lead us into the future.

S. JoAnn Fellin, OSB, ’55

Grotto Naming Opportunities

Benedictine College Marian Grotto The Benedictine College Marian Grotto, nestled in the hillside on the edge of the academic quad, will be a place for all to experience quiet meditation, inspiration, and outdoor prayer. The Grotto project is part of the school’s $50 million, Investing in Excellence capital campaign and offers numerous naming opportunities.

Please make plans to join us on Tuesday, September 8th when the Grotto will be dedicated by Archbishop Joseph Naumann at a special ceremony which begins at the 5:15 p.m. Mass.

Grotto Statue of Mary Altar Statue of Bernadette Pulpit Area Candle Stands* (three available)

Named Named $150,000 $100,000 $100,000 $50,000 each

*Each stand holds 100 candles

Kneelers (four available) Benches (three available) Perpetual Book of Prayer

$40,000 each $25,000 each $150.00 (unlimited number)

(The donor’s name will be inscribed in the perpetual book of prayer inside the grotto alongside a candle that will always remain lit for the intentions of the donor.)

If you are interested in the naming opportunities, please contact: Kelly Vowels at kvowels@benedictine.edu or 913-360-7418.

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partnership with the University of North Dakota to provide an opportunity for our students to earn a fully accredited engineering degree at Benedictine College, combining Benedictine courses with a few distance education courses from North Dakota’s program.

NEW SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AT BC

In October, Benedictine College announced the formation of a School of Business. The new school comprises all the undergraduate business programs as well as the Executive Master’s in Business Administration and the traditional MBA programs. Antonio Soave, an internationally recognized entrepreneur and educator, was named the executive director of the new school.

“The School of Business will help bring more visibility to the high quality business education available at Benedictine College,” Soave said. “We will integrate a very active International Business Advisory Council (IBAC) that will provide much greater access and opportunity to and for our students at a very high level in terms of global business.

The IBAC is comprised of some of the foremost business leaders in the world today.”

faceted sports business that lasted until 2003. He then co-founded and became the chief executive officer of an inspirational documentary film production company in Los Angeles, Capistrano Films. He was also a high school All-American soccer player and went on to train and play semiprofessional and professional soccer in the United States and Italy. From 2002 to 2006, he also hosted a nationally televised soccer educational and instructional show for children, “The Soccer Academy.” Soave currently runs an international consulting firm, Capistrano Global Advisory Services.

“We’re pleased to have Antonio Soave on board to lead our School of Business,” said Stephen D. Minnis, president of Benedictine College. “His international expertise will put Benedictine College at the forefront of marketing, finance, and business administration within the global community.”

Soave graduated from The American University in Washington, D.C. with a degree in international relations.

He has also earned a law degree from Michigan State University and a Master’s of Law in International Law from the University of San Diego. He served as an intern in the White House Office of Public Liaison’s Department of Foreign Policy and Defense in 1987 before starting RGI International, his own international marketing and investment banking consulting firm. That business had offices in Troy, Michigan; Brescia, Italy and Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The IBAC has already brought such notables as Don Soderquist, former senior vice chairman of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and founder of the Soderquist Center for Leadership and Ethics, and Ambassador Cris Arcos, former U.S. ambassador to Honduras, to the campus for lectures and meetings. The first gathering of the full committee in November saw 23 business leaders from around the country attend. The group reconvened in April and many members participated in panels of the Global Financial Summit (GFS).

After 10 years with RGI, he teamed up with Disney’s Wide World of Sports® Complex in Florida to run a multi-

Results of the GFS will be published in the college’s new International Journal of Business this fall.

Left: Antonio Soave.

Right: Ambassador Cris Arcos and Don Soderquist.

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olarshi h c s “I am very proud that we have developed this new program,” said Stephen Minnis, ’82, President of Benedictine College. “It’s very much in keeping with our mission, it allows us to help address a serious and growing need in society today (shortage of nurses), and lets us offer a program that students are eager to accept.

Benedictine College, with its emphasis on community, faith and scholarship,

is perfectly suited to educate the nurses our world so desperately needs.”

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that, due to an aging population and longer life expectancies, more than 1 million new and replacement nurses will be needed by the year 2016. The prenursing curriculum, which includes the college’s general education requirements and specific courses required for admittance to the nursing program, generally takes two years to complete. Students who enroll in the college’s pre-nursing program in 2009 will be eligible for preferential consideration for admission to the nursing program.

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While many colleges around the country are cutting back on programs, the faculty and Board of Directors at Benedictine College have approved a major expansion of its curriculum. The college has announced the creation of a new nursing program, with students able to begin pre-nursing classes this fall. Upon completion of the licensing and accreditation requirements, the college intends to offer clinical nursing courses (usually taken in the junior and senior years) beginning in the fall of 2010. Benedictine College plans to begin granting Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees in May of 2012.

Individuals will enter as pre-nursing students and then apply to the nursing program during their sophomore year. If accepted into the nursing program, students will primarily take nursing classes during their junior and senior years and spend time in clinical rotations during those two years. With approximately 25 students per class, nursing students will develop close relationships with professors and fellow students.

Graduates must take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses.

The college has already started a search for the program director.

The director will lead the licensure and accreditation process. More information about the program is available from Pete Helgesen, Dean of Enrollment Management, at 913.360.7415 or phelgesen@ benedictine.edu.

Fly-By Sign up for the weekly Raven Fly-By, an email brief of the latest happenings around campus and among alumni. Take a minute, or even longer, every Tuesday to read about Benedictine College and your fellow Ravens.

It’s easy, just sign up by sending an email to skramer@benedictine.edu.

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New Nursing Program

Tom Sak: Success on and off the field Born in Chicago, Thomas Sak, ’85, was attracted to Benedictine by both its football and science programs.

He came to Atchison in 1981 with two tough goals…to be a starting collegiate offensive lineman and get a degree in biology. A serious knee injury knocked him out of football his freshman year and he sat out as a redshirt. Biology proved to be just about as difficult.

“Those first two years were tough,” he said about his coursework. “I have to admit my GPA was probably 2.0 my freshman year. But I stuck with it and by the time I graduated, it was 4.0.”

Not only did he turn his academic career around, he also made it back onto the football field. After the redshirt year, he returned and became the starting left offensive tackle for the Ravens. As he headed into his final year, his excellence in academics, while gaining him Scholar Athlete standing, created a problem with his sport.

“I was actually at risk of graduating in four years,” he laughed. “I literally had to drop a class my senior year to keep from graduating.”

Why would he intentionally keep himself from graduating? The simple answer is eligibility. The redshirt year meant he still had one season of eligibility at the college level and with his love for the game, he wanted to play. He dropped the class so he didn’t have all the requirements for a degree, then came back for the fall 1985 football season. The decision may sound strange, but for a football player, it was the only thing to do.

And wouldn’t you know that extra season would be magical. Benedictine had a perfect season, going 10-0 that year!

At the same time, he wanted to take advantage of his extra study time. He decided to add an education minor.

“I needed to have at least 12 hours to be eligible to play football,” he said. “And I wanted to get something worthwhile out of my extra semester. I decided to add a minor in secondary education. I thought it would be cool to maybe teach high school biology after I graduated.”

Of course another influence on that decision was his girlfriend, Michelle Oswald ’86, who was also an education major. Needless to say, Michelle has now been Mrs. Sak for almost 20 years.

While in school, Sak had concentrated on fish and wildlife.

Most biology majors at the time were going into the medical field or pharmacy, rather than research.

“I have to give kudos to Dr. Simon and Dr. Bowen,” he said. “And Father Eugene (Dehner OSB), who was the first person I met

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on campus. But Martin Simon got me into research. He had a huge influence on me. And Dan Bowen, he was my advisor for a while. Nothing but class, I have a world of respect for him.”

He graduated in December 1985 with a degree in biology, a certification to teach at the high school level, a perfect season, and he had even served as president of the Biology Club. Not too bad for a lineman.

“There were a lot of guys much smarter than me in biology,” he said. “I was really humbled to be elected and to serve as Biology Club president.”

Following graduation, he went back to Chicago where he taught high school briefly before continuing his own education. For that, he headed out to Humboldt State University in California, one of the top schools for fish and wildlife management. Since he thoroughly enjoyed the field, he did well and quickly completed a Master’s of Science Degree in Natural Resources Management.

“I nailed it,” he said. “I graduated in two years and then started a series of small jobs working for various states.”

He worked for the various natural resources departments of California, Oregon and other states. Then he landed a job at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources as a research biologist. He started work along the Minnesota / Canadian border, but later relocated to the Minneapolis-St. Paul area where he was the coordinator of the Aquatic Vegetation Management office.

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olarshi h c s community fa ith “Here I was running a multi-million dollar program in the public eye,” he said. “I’m making appearances on TV and I’m on the radio all the time. I’m handling all of this, yet I know I’m not going anywhere.”

He said another Benedictine graduate, Mike Schindler ’89, also lived in the area and they went fishing together.

Schindler had a job with Ciba-Geigy, a pharmaceutical company, and convinced Sak to try the private sector.

“I got a job as a sales representative for Ciba-Geigy,” he said. “It was my first sales job.”

His biology background served him well in the pharmaceutical world, even though it didn’t go into research.

From Ciba-Geigy he joined Aventis Pharmaceuticals, where he moved up the ranks into sales management and started taking on larger accounts.

That experience led to a national account director position at Amgen, a biotechnology company.

“I dealt with what they call protein, or large molecule drugs,” he explained.

“They’re very expensive, but they save people’s lives. I had large customers, to the point that one order for one drug might be a half a billion dollars.”

About a year ago he moved to the distribution side, taking on the reigns as national account manager for BioScrip. There he deals with Medicaid, large employers, consulting firms, and commercial accounts.

in sales. And recently I submitted a proposal to do an age and growth study on fish in Minnesota lakes for the Boy Scouts of America. So I’m keeping a hand in it. Once I get the kids through college, it would be nice to get back into fish and wildlife research.”

He has also been recognized for his athletic achievements. In 1985, he was inducted into the Benedictine College Athletic Hall of Fame. Throughour his life, he has remained balanced with career, faith and family. He and his wife have three children, Eddie and Samantha, (twins, age 14) and Hayden (age 11) and they reside in Aurora, Illinois.

“I’ve stayed with the research, though,” he said. “I have encouraged some of the researchers at the biotech companies to publish. I’ve actually published more papers than many of my research colleagues, and I’m

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“It was pretty cool because I got to testify in front of the Minnesota State House and Senate as an expert witness,” he recalled. He also recalled that government work rewards seniority, rather than quality.

CLASS NOTES

class note s

Sept. 17, 2008 through March 5, 2009

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Ruth (Van Booven) Hannaford, ’39, Independence, Mo., was married to her husband, Oscar Hannaford for 63 years, prior to his death on Aug. 31, 2008. Ruth sent a letter to Benedictine College sharing some of her wonderful memories of her one year, 1935-36, at Mount St. Scholastica College.

Her French teacher was S. Jerome Keeler, OSB; on Mother Lucy Dooley’s name day, a poem Ruth wrote in her honor was attached to her basket of flowers; it cost $100 for her one year at MSSC because she also worked in the college dining room. Aerial darts was a popular game where she and Bernie Kinsock were the winners and good friends, Frances Noble and Vinnie Langan were the losers. Ruth continues to say the “Our Father” in French – via her lasting affection for S. Jerome plus her everlasting memories of the Mount.

1950

Mary (Rump) Glenski, ’52, Sioux Falls, S.D., retired from the South Dakota House of Representatives after eight years in the Legislature. She served on the State Affairs Committee, the Commerce committee, and for the past six years on the House Appropriations Committee. Mary and her husband, Jim, plan to spend more time with their nine children and 19 grandchildren.

Donn B. Murphy, Ph.D., ’54, Arlington, Va., was inducted into the Papal Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem in Oct. 2008, in St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington, D.C. One guest noted that the ceremony was a “three-Cardinal Mass” - with local bishops presiding.

The Knights and Ladies of the Order take particular interest in the support of Christian schools and a Catholic

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seminary in the Holy Land, and in particular in the protection of the Holy Sepulchre itself. The Knights wear a white cape with the red Jerusalem Cross, which is composed of five small crosses representing the wounds of Christ.

Mary Ellen (Van Evercooren) Moore, ’55, and her husband, George, are retired and reside in Roach, Mo.

1960

Kevin, ’60, and his wife, Mary McNicholas, Denver, Colo., owners of KM Concessions, received the 2009 “J. Francis Cardinal Stafford Justice and Charity Award,” given by Catholic Charities at its premier bi-annual event, “Evening for Caring,” Feb. 19.

The couple has served on numerous community boards; donated catering services to Catholic schools, parishes and charitable causes; and been recognized with several awards for their commitment to education and helping the poor.

Bo Fraser, ’64, Columbia, Mo., was elected to a one-year term beginning Jan. 1, 2009, as chair of the University of Missouri’s Board of Curators.

During 2008, he held the board of curator’s vice chairman post. Bo is chairman of the board of Boone County National Bank and served as the bank’s chairman and CEO for more than 20 years. He also is a member of the Benedictine College Board of Directors.

Maj. Gen. Thomas A. Wessels, AUS (Ret.), ’66, Atlanta, Ga., was installed into the Knights of Malta, in Oct. 2008, following a year of preparation.

During this time, he learned the history and spirituality of the Order.

Knights of Malta members give their time, talent and treasure to defend the faith and provide service to the sick and poor.

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Anne (Wyrsch) Rikard, ’67, Springfield, Mo., is married to Larry Rikard, and have three children and three grandchildren. Anne is retired, and enjoys spending time with her grandchildren.

Margaret Furlong Alexander, ’68, Salem, Ore., is the owner of Margaret Furlong Designs, which offers a multitude of items available for special holidays or everyday gifts. Check out Margaret Furlong Designs online at www.margaretfurlong.com John A. Berhmann, ’68, Signal Mountain, Tenn., is the commercial relationship manager for the commercial line of business at SunTrust Bank. John, vice president of the bank, has more than 30 years of experience in commercial and private banking.

Thomas Hoenig, ’68, Kansas City, Mo., is one of six Kansas City businessmen appointed Trustees to the Board for the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial. Also, among the new BC trustees are these friends: William Dunn Sr., R. Crosby Kemper Jr., and John Kornitzer. The Trustees will work with the board on policy development, fundraising and implementing the Museum’s new strategic plan.

Joe Evans, Ph.D., ’69, Omaha, Neb., a child psychologist at University of Nebraska Medical Center, is the 2008-09 recipient of the American Psychological Foundation Cummings Psyche Prize. The annual award recognizes one psychologist in the country whose career exemplifies the integration of behavioral and primary health care. Joe, who the is director of psychology at UNMC’s MunroeMeyer Institute and professor in the department of pediatrics, was selected by the award for establishing 14 integrated behavioral outreach clinics within primary care settings. Those

five grandchildren. Retirement plans include playing a lot of golf and chasing after the grandchildren.

Philip Luebbert, ’71, is in his third (pre-deaconate) year of theology, studying for the priesthood at Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, Conn. He is sponsored by Bishop Robert Finn of the Kansas City-St. Joseph (Mo.) Diocese. For two weeks in Dec. 2008, Phil traveled throughout the Holy Land, staying in Galilee and Jerusalem, as part of a scriptural course for the seminary. Phil requests your prayers that God will continue to guide his discernment of a vocation to the priesthood.

Charles Ray, ’71, North Potomac, Md., is finishing his stint as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Prisoners of War/Missing Personnel Affairs (2006-2008), and is awaiting nomination and confirmation as ambassador to a country yet to be named. In 2002-2005, he served as ambassador in Cambodia. In addition to serving the U.S. in various military and civilian posts for over 40 years, Charles wrote a book that addresses leadership from a practitioner’s viewpoint. “Things I Learned from My Grandmother About Leadership and Life,” is available for purchase at www. amazon.com. clinics have served patients from more than 225 communities and towns in rural Nebraska over the past 10 years.

1970

Bud Nolker, ’70, retired in Aug. 2008 from the Social Security Administration after 38 years of service. In his most recent position Bud was the area director for the 21 field offices in Kansas and Nebraska.

He resides in Leawood, Kan., with his wife, Melanie (Stone) Nolker, ’72. They have three children and

Kitchencadd, LLC. The company produces mechanical drawings for commercial kitchens (hospitals, schools, restaurants). Al has been involved in the design and layout end of the food service industry since 1976.

Patrick K. George, ‘78, Dodge City, Kan., was re-elected in Nov. 2008 to the Kansas House of Representatives District 119. He, and his wife, Lori, have three children, twins Thomas and Anna, 13; and Maris, 10. Pat is also a partner with Nueterra Capitol Management, www.nueterracapital. com. NCM raises private equity that is deployed in the health sector.

Christopher Pawlowicz, ’78, Mill Creek, Wash., is the Senior Vice President, Human Resources at Seattle Genetics, in Bothell, Wash. He joins the company with more than 25 years of human resources experience, including MedPointe Pharmaceuticals, Pharmacia, Searle Pharmaceutical Company and Monsanto Company.

Christopher is married to Joan (Baker) Pawlowicz, ’77, and they are the parents of three sons.

Justin Carroll, ’72, Saint Louis, Mo., in his 28th year at Washington University in St. Louis was recently promoted to Associate Vice Chancellor for Students and Dean of Students. In addition to serving as Dean of Students, he works with the athletics and recreation, housing and Residential Life programs, and the Habif Health and Wellness Center. Justin, and his wife, Cindy King-Carroll, are the parents of four children.

Tom Guarr, ’79, Holland, Mich., a founding member of the AMXtreme Drag Racing Team, was featured along with his 1970 Rebel Machine on an episode of SPIKE TV’s Muscle Car, in February. A second team vehicle, a ’69 AMX dubbed “The Kenosha Killer,” was also recently featured on an episode of the SPEED Channel’s PINKS All Outtakes show; and won the 2008 East Coast Nostalgia Super Stock Association Championship.

Meanwhile, Tom’s son, Evan, 13, was the 2008 track champion in his class (Junior Dragster 10-12) at the MidMichigan Motorplex. When not racing or restoring vehicles, Tom may be found at Gentex as its vice president of chemical research.

Al Schroeder, ’75, Elgin, Ill., has formed his own company,

Luke Scavuzzo, ’79, was re-elected in Nov.2008 to a second term in the

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Fa l l 2 0 0 8

RSN

and Lukas.

Benedictine Ravens Sports Network

1980 Listen to Benedictine Ravens Sports Network Online through BRSN. Go to www.ravenathletics.com and click on the BRSN logo to hear home games of:

Volleyball Football Soccer Basketball Baseball Softball

e v i L

Now you can hear all the excitement of your favorite sports during

&

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Missouri House of Representatives 124th District. In July, he was named a 2008 Legislator of the Year by House Minority Leader Paul LeVota. Rep. Scavuzzo and his wife, Candace, reside in Harrisonville, Mo., and are the parents of two grown children, Jenna

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Michael W. Walsh, ’80, St. Louis, Mo., was inducted into the Old Newsboys Day Hall of Fame in Dec. 2008. He, along with four other individuals and one organization, received the Golden Plate Award for their commitment to the children of St. Louis and leadership to the Old Newsboys Day campaign. The non-profit, charitable organization started in 1957, and provides help for the children’s charities in the St. Louis bi-state areas.

Michael is the president and CEO of Eagle Bank and Trust Co., which has 12 branches in St. Louis, Jefferson, Perry and St. Louis counties.

Fr. Daniel McCarthy, OSB, ’85, Atchison, announces that his new book, “Listen to the Word: Commentaries on selected Opening Prayers of Sundays and Feasts with Sample Homilies” (Documenta rerum ecclesiasticarum instaurata, Varia), is now available from The Tablet Publishing, London 2009, thetablet. co.uk.

Byron Scott, ’86, Chicago, Ill., after a 25-year absence from acting, returned to the stage in June 2008 to star as Sterling in the play, “Jeffrey,” by Paul Rudnick. Byron last appeared in the Benedictine College production of “The Unknown Soldier and His Wife.” Other credits include “Don’t Drink the Water,” and “Godspell,” at Grand Junction Central High School, where he was named Best Actor in 1980. During the day, Byron is a financial analyst for the U.S. Department of Education. He is also an ordained minister in the Universal Life Church. Byron speaks German and loves to travel.

Daniel Stech, ’88, MBA, CMPE, is a principal with the Pinnacle Group in Denver, Colo. where he is executive director of products and innovation.

His main focus is on consulting with

40

hospitals on physician compensation and fair market value compliance issues. Dan has 19 years experience in health management and policy, and serves as an industry authority on physician practice performance.

He previously worked 11 years with the Medical Group Management Association in Englewood. Dan resides in Castle Rock with his wife, Susanne, and their two sons, Joseph and Anthony.

1990

Michael Buening, ’90, Lewis Center, Ohio, was promoted in Oct. 2008 to department manager of the Online Services Assurance department within the IT division of Chemical Abstracts Service. In this role he oversees the groups responsible for the software testing, systems operations and customer technical support for CAS online products.

Catherine (Carpinelli) Austin, ’92, Houston, Texas, has been promoted to the senior management position of chief marketing officer at Baker Botts L.L.P. She is responsible for all aspects of the firm’s marketing, public relations and client service initiatives. She previously was director of client relations for the Houstonbased international law firm. Baker Botts L.L.P. has approximately 800 lawyers and provides a full-range of legal services to international, national and regional clients. The company has offices in Austin, Beijing, Dallas, Dubai, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Moscow, New York, Palo Alto (Calif.), Riyadh and Washington.

James Krone, ’92, MEA, Atchison, principal at the Atchison Middle School (USD 409), was named the 2008 Principal of the Year by the Kansas Association of Middle School Administrators. He, along with three other Kansas Administrators of the Year, were introduced at the State Board meeting in Jan. 2009, where they shared successful practices that

build instructional capacity to help all students learn and achieve. James, and his wife, Sharon, are the parents of two children, Shannon and Jason.

Jeff Coyle, ’94, began a new position with the Houston Public Library on Dec. 1, 2008. Jeff is now the Manager of the HPL Express - Morris Frank Location.

Michael J. Lucas, ’94, and MEA, ’98, Franklin, Neb., earned his doctorate degree in educational leadership at University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Mike is in his sixth year as high school principal and superintendent at Class C2 Franklin, recently was selected Superintendent of Schools by the York (Neb.) Board of Education. York is a Class B system, which is the second largest classification in Nebraska. This summer Mike, his wife Liesl (Dean) Lucas, ’92, and their children, Taylor, Micah, Jeb, and Bo, will relocate to York.

Elizabeth (Grady) Bell, ’95, is the new executive director of the Sexual Assault Center of Northwest Georgia. She and her husband, Bill, live in Rome, Ga. St. Benedict’s College

St. Benedict’s College

Cheryl Mason, CPA, FHFMA, ’95, formerly of Salina, Kan., is the chief financial officer at The Regional Medical Center of Orangeburg & Calhoun Counties, Orangeburg, SC. Her responsibilities include providing financial and strategic leadership for the hospital and integrated health system and for establishing and implementing financial policies.

Cheryl and her husband, Fred, reside in Santee. The couple has two grown daughters.

Diana Saunders, ’95, McPherson, Kan., was one of two people awarded in Aug. 2008, the professional insurance designation Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter by the American Institute for CPCU. The announcement was made by the Farmers Alliance Companies, where Diana has worked since joining the firm in 1993. The American Institute for CPCU is an independent, nonprofit educational organization that confers the CPCU designation on persons who complete eight courses and national essay examinations. They also must meet ethics and experience requirements.

Mount St. Scholastica College

Mount St. Scholastica College

Sarah (Bogner), ’97, and Josh Holthusen, ’97, Wichita, Kan., have two CDs available for purchase at www.sarahandjoshmusic.com. “I Call It Home,” is a collection of songs they wrote and recorded while living in Nashville and ranges from full scale production to simple guitarvocals, “Angels Standing Guard,” is an acoustic collection of original and classic Christian music. A fifth album, featuring some of their favorite Catholic Church songs, along with a couple of originals, is underway. Also on their website is information about booking the couple for performances or attending an upcoming show. Josh and Sarah are the parents of four sons, Joseph, Matthew, Luke and Noah.

Ryan D. Brown, ’99, Olathe, Kan., a free-lance writer, had three articles appear in the Oct. 2008 issue of Enhance, Kansas City’s premiere bi-monthly magazine focusing on health and wellness. In Jan., Ryan was promoted from senior executive underwriter to director of document services with Community America Credit Union. He, and wife, Colleen, are the parents of a daughter, Molly.

Benedictine College

Benedictine College

Come home for Reunion 2009!

Come home for Reunion 2009!

2009 All-Alumni Reunion Weekend

2009

June 12-14 All-Alumni Reunion Weekend Classes featured include: 1934, 1939, 1944, 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004

June 12-14

For more information go to www.bcconnect.org/reunion09 or contact Courtney Marshall, Director of Alumni Relations, at 913-360-7428.

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Rob Herringer, ’00 and MEA, ’04, Lansing, Kan., completed the firstever NSCAA Master Coach Diploma program in January. The Master Coach program entails a year-long commitment to continued growth in coaching education that spans far beyond the field. Rob worked with a current NSCAA staff member, who served as a mentor and a guide for the course. In addition to the selfguided projects, interaction with other Master Coach candidates was a large component of the coursework, and provided an opportunity for Rob to study at top professional clubs in England and received feedback from top coaches throughout the world.

This program is the highest coaching certification in the nation. Rob is the men’s soccer coach and Director of Athletic Giving at Benedictine College. He and wife, Cymbre (Costello) Herringer, ’00, are the parents of a son, Connor, 3.

2000

Davyeon D. Ross, ’00, Overland Park, Kan., was one of two Benedictine College alumni featured among the inaugural list of 20 young Kansas City entrepreneurs in the Aug. 2008 issue of “Ingram’s Magazine.” Davyeon is president and CEO of AthletixNation, Inc., an online sports-centered social networking website for athletes and others interested in sports at all levels.

Raven Store Get your official Ravens’ gear online!

Aaron D. Sinclair, M.D., ’00, Atchison, opened his family medicine practice within the Atchison Hospital in the fall of 2007. In addition to caring for all age groups, Dr. Sinclair also offers sports medicine care, obstetrical services, and minor surgical procedures such as skin lesion removal, colonoscopies, and suturing.

Within the Atchison community, Dr. Sinclair writes a health column for the Atchison Globe and is involved with the creation of a free-will clinic, Atchison Community Health Clinic, set to open later this year. Aaron and his wife, Shelly, are the parents of four sons, Cole Dean, 6; Carter Noah, 3; Tait Aberra, 2; and Tylan Matthew, born Sept. 24, 2008.

Janelle (Strathman) Wenzl, ’00, Wetmore, Kan., is a Human Services Specialist with the state of Kansas in their Social and Rehabilitation Services. Janelle is working in the Elderly & Disable Independent Living unit.

Megan (Cassidy) Bickford, ’02, Atchison, and the BC Office of Marketing & Communication were honored with a gold award for excellence in design by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) during its District VI banquet in January. The award was for the institutional identity program surrounding the college’s Sesquicentennial Celebration, including the convocation program, light pole banners, and speakers’ series brochure.

Lindsey Aydelotte, EMBA, ’04, Overland Park, Kan., was featured in the inaugural list of Kansas City entrepreneurs, “20 in their Twenties,” in the Aug. 2008, “Ingram’s Magazine.” Lindsey created a magazine directed to women called “Her Life,” which debuted in Oct. 2007, and is found in medical and professional offices in the Kansas City area.

Jill (Kirk) Doyle, EMBA ’04, Holton,

913.360.7448

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Kan., owner of Cakes, Cookies and Catering, was featured in the March issue of “Her Life,” within an article detailing the Benedictine College Executive MBA program.

Through projects within the 12-month accelerated master’s degree program, Jill learned to set-up a business plan, develop networking skills, and approach bankers about starting her own business, which she opened less than a year after earning her degree.

Jill and her husband, Scott, are parents of two sons, Hayden and Colby.

Jessica P. (Barton) Shaddox, ’04, Paola, Kan., is the new executive director for the Chamber of Commerce in Osawatomie. Her husband, Chad D. Shaddox, ’02, is the Edward Jones agent in Spring Hill.

Luke P. Cairney, ’05, Atchison, became the Director of Student Activities at Benedictine College in August 2008. Prior to that, he worked in the college’s admission office as an Assistant Director.

Dirk Kinney, MASL, ’05, Fayetteville, Ark., is the pitching coach/recruiting coordinator at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Steven Meier, ’06, and his wife, Christy (Griffin) Meier, ’08, Topeka, Kan., accepted a one-year assignment with Greenhill YMCA in Newcastle, Northern Ireland through a Church of the Brethren Volunteer Service. Greenhill YMCA is a crossdenominational, year-round Christian organization, which offers leadership and programs to assist young people in their physical, social, mental, and spiritual development.

Raquel Huntington, ’08, Atchison, was promoted in January to the position of Registrar for the Office of Academic Records and Registration at Benedictine College. She has been employed at her alma mater since July 2000. Raquel has two children, Carissa Goehner, a freshman at Benedictine

College, and a son, Lane Huntington, 13.

Kristen Koenen, ’08, Lenexa, Kan., is one of five first-year law students at the University of Kansas to be selected for the prestigious full-tuition Rice Scholar Program. Kristen is a student ambassador and a member of Women in Law and Phi Alpha Delta, a professional law fraternity. During the summer of 2007, she lived in New York City interning for fashion designer, Donna Karan.

Jennifer L. Losey, ’08, Hays, Kan., began working in Aug. 2008, as the Scheduling and Employer Relations Coordinator for Career Services at Fort Hays State University.

1990

Amy Catbagan, ’05, wed Mariano Nick Gonzales, ’05, Sept. 13, 2008 in Boulder, Colo. They reside in Greenwood Village, Colo.

Valerie Lickteig, ’92, wed William Wilkus, Nov. 15, 2008, Kansas City, Mo. Valerie teaches piano and voice in her private studio, Little Flower School of Music, in Kansas City and William is a sales engineer with Control Devices and Instrumentation in Olathe, Kan.

Theresa M. Fulks, ‘05, wed Matt Clark, Oct. 3, 2008. He is employed by Johnson County and she manages the C & S Market. The Clarks reside in Eudora, Kan.

Tricia Biggins, ’90, wed Stan Mitchell, June 20, 2008. They reside in Overland Park, Kan.

2000

Lindsay K Turner, ’00, wed Brian W Bridgeman, May 24, 2008, Kansas City, Mo. The couple resides in Liberty, Mo. Lindsay is a Financial Aid Administrator for ITT Technical College, and Brian is the Operations Supervisor for Brenntag Mid-South.

Justin Ronald Arnoldi, ’01, wed Karen Virginia Chiodo, Sept.

20, 2008, in Houston, Texas.

Weddings & Anniversaries

1980

Robert D. Campbell, ’82, and his wife, Allison celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on Dec. 30, 2008. They are the parents of two daughters, Courtney, 19, a sophomore at Washburn University in Topeka; and Catherine, a sixth grader at Atchison Catholic Elementary School.

Robert is a lawyer in private practice in Atchison, and Allison is a homemaker and works part time keeping the books at the law office.

Maria E. Vigliaturo, ’01, wed Michael A. Tabor, ’00, June 27, 2008, St. Joseph, Mo. The couple resides in Kansas City, Mo., where Maria is a district sales manager at Toyota Motor Sales, and Michael is an account manager at Lockton Companies.

Keri Mahoney, ’02, wed Eric Simonich, ’02, Oct. 25, 2008, in Kansas City. The couple resides in Denver, Colo.

Jennifer Keberlein, ’03, wed Geoff Henggeler, Nov. 29, 2008, in Victoria, Kan. The couple resides in Kansas City, Mo., where she is an economist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Mary Elizabeth Quinn, ’03, wed Luke Charles Baker, ’03, July 5, 2008, in Atchison. They reside in Denver, Colo.

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Megan R. Harmon, ’05, Topeka, Kan., wed Jeff D. Morris, Oct. 4, 2008. Megan is the Executive Assistant for the Johnson County District Attorney’s Office, and Jeff, a 2003 graduate of Washburn University, is a Project Manager for J.F. McGivern in Topeka, Kan. Olena Kravchenko, ’05, wed Robert Hikel, ’07, Ambler, Penn., Feb. 14, 2008. Her parents traveled from the Ukraine for the ceremony. Robert coaches tennis part-time, and Olena is currently studying nursing. The couple also has their own business, Hikel International, http://rhikel. ordermygift.com.

Michael E. Kelley, Jr., ’04, wed Maris E. Wilson-Frails, Dec. 20, 2008, in Atchison.

Sarah Ann Seib, ’06, wed Daniel James Beaudoin, Sept. 20, 2008, in Lincoln, Neb. He is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. Sarah is a second grade teacher at St. Matthew School in Bellevue; and Daniel is employed with the security department at Offutt Air Force Base.

Kathryn E. McDermott, ’08, wed John M. Meinert, ’08, Jan. 3, 2009, in Villa Ridge, Mo. Morgan M. Noyes, ’08, wed Luke T. Parris, ’07, June 28, 2008, in Lee’s Summit, Mo. They currently reside in Atchison.

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Births & Adoptions

1980

Margaret Mae ‘Maggie’ to Tom Colwell, Jr., and Joni Brophy Colwell, ’85, Nov. 11, 2008. She joins Kate, Tom III, Mary, and Nora in Olathe, Kan. Alexander Nathaniel Bernard to Mark and Barbara (Schuett) Easterday, ’89, Oct. 24, 2008. He joins Zachary and Elizabeth in Atchison.

1990

Tavin Alexander to Turi and Nate Cairney, ’96, Feb. 9, 2009. He joins Elyse, 2, in Somerville, Mass.

Brody John to Christy and Craig Durant, ’96, Gansevoort, NY, July 30, 2008.

Danielle Marie to Andrew, ’97, and Neely (Arnold), ’97, Giangreco, June 13, 2008. She joins Samantha and Zachary in Overland Park, Kan. Luke Gerard to David, ’97, and Jacqulene (Pick), ’98, Harris, Nov. 3, 2008. He joins Helen, 4, and Clare, 2, in Atchison.

Kaitlyn Elizabeth to Ben and Mindy (Heidesch) Plummer, ’97, Feb. 5, 2009. She joins, Landon, in Atlanta, Ga. Anna Sofia to Kevin, ’98 and MBA, ’01, and Kathryn (Crawford) Archer, ’01, Sept. 9. 2008. She joins Joseph and Daniel in Brighton, Colo.

William Scott to Erin and Chad Eddins, ’98 and EMBA, ’04, St. Joseph, Mo., Feb. 17, 2009.

Twins Grayson John and Hayden James to Steven R. and Angela K. (Schneider) Hunter, ’98, Warrensburg, Mo., Sept. 13, 2008.

2000

Anthony Michael to Jason and Clare

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M. (Cathers) Gotera, ’01, Aug. 21, 2008. He joins Dominic in Toronto, Canada.

Samuel Charles Leighton to Kurt, MEA, ’00, and Sarah (Perdue), ’01, Schlanker, Atchison, May 20, 2008.

Henry Charles to Megan and C. Ed Browne, ’02, Lititz, Pa., Jan. 15, 2009.

Connor Cecil to Justin and Kelly (O’Donnell) Francis, ’03, Kansas City, Mo., June 10, 2008.

David Paul to Paul and Elizabeth (Hruska) Slobodnik, ’05, Jan. 17, 2009. The family resides in Atchison, where Elizabeth is employed as the Special Projects Coordinator in the Student Life Department at Benedictine College.

Daniel Joseph to Anna and Douglas M. Longstaff, EMBA, ’07, Feb. 23, 2008. He joins Catherine, Luke, and John Paul, at home in Topeka, Kan.

Deceased Mamie Robl, Ellinwood, Kan., a friend of Benedictine College, died Oct. 17, 2008, three days shy of her 105th birthday.

1930

Hamburg, Pa., died March 12, 2008.

Thomas M. Winburn, San Juan Capistrano, Calif., died Dec. 2, 2007.

Survivors include his wife, Nell (Dyer) Winburn, ’38.

Fr. Regis Hickey, OSB, ’39, Atchison, died Oct. 21, 2008. He served in many capacities for the College, including the Director of Publicity from1954-60, and was an instructor in the English department. He also edited the college yearbook, and newspaper, and served as a prefect in Freshman Hall, now Ferrell Hall. In 1962, while serving in Brazil, he started the publication, “Kansas Monks in Brazil;” in 1972 it become simply “Kansas Monks.” He continued to serve as editor through the 1990s.

Mary (McNerny) Lykins, ’39, Atchison, died Dec. 7, 2008. She received her long awaited college degree at the age of 85 from Benedictine in Sept. 2001. Among the survivors are four children, including Daniel Lykins, ’68; daughter-inlaw, Jenny (Farrell) Lykins, ’84; and 16 grandchildren, including, Amy McKelvy Folsom, ’95; Shawn McKelvy, ’96; Erin McKelvy Patterson, ’00, and Meghan McKelvy, ’06.

S. Patricia Hildegarde Marshall, O.S.B., ’39, Atchison, died Oct. 17, 2008.

Maureen Ann (O’Connor) Erickson, ’35, Topeka, Kan., died Jan. 5, 2009.

Mary Margaret Pejsa, ’39, St. Joseph, Mo., died Jan. 23, 2009.

Dorthea L. (Bacon) Wolfe, ’35, Lewisville, Texas, died Sept. 23, 2008.

Among the survivors is a sister., Betty (Bacon) Mize, ’39.

Joann (Schmidt) Rackley, ’39, Poquoson, Va., died Jan. 22, 2009.

Among the survivors are four children, including Marcia Rackley, ’67, and Karen (Rackley) Credeur, a friend of the College.

Ruth (Marlin) Marts, ’37, Tucson, Ariz., died Oct. 20, 2008.

Helen T. (Placek) Malins, ’38, Corpus Christi, Texas, died Feb. 5, 2009.

Dorothy (Roche) Milak, ’38, Sugar Grove, Ill., died Nov. 15, 2008.

S. Dolores Strunk, Ph.D., ’38,

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1940

Maureen C. (Steinauer) Bovick, ’40, Omaha, Neb., died March 26, 2007.

Fr. Philip Dehner, OCSO, ’40, monk and priest of the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, Ga., died Dec. 4, 2008. Among the survivors are a S.-

in-law, Rita (McPhee) Dehner, ’58; and four nephews, Mark Dehner, attended 1963-64; Ben Dehner, attended 1965-68; Tom McNasser, ’67, and Jim Dehner, ’68.

Lorraine Hughes, ’40, Burbank, Calif., died June 2, 2006.

Dunstan J. Wack, ’40, Pueblo, Co., native of Council Bluffs, Iowa, died Feb. 25, 2009. At St. Benedict’s College, he was professor of psychology and education, clinical psychologist and director of guidance and counseling. In addition, Dunstan was the college registrar for 1951-52, and served as chair of the psychology department from 1951 to 1969.

Among the survivors are his wife, Helen Brentano Wack, ’63; brother, Paul Wack, attended 1936-38; sister, Elizabeth (Wack) Doyle, ’44; sister-inlaw, S. Alice Brentano, O.S.B., ’66; and great niece, Christina M. Dixon, ’01.

Paul L. Ahern, ’41, Lake Forest, Ill., died May 21, 2007. He was a civic leader and a distinguished lawyer, retiring completely at the age of 80.

Kathryn A. Black, Salina, Kan., died Aug. 18, 2008. Among the survivors are siblings Mary Louise (Black) LeVan, ’41, and Frank E. Black, ’55.

John G. Kelly, ’41, Santa Monica, Calif., died Sept. 28, 2008.

Margaret Wavada, Trenton, Mo., died March 27, 2007. Survivors include her husband, Victor F. Wavada, ’41.

Correction: Patricia A. Coupe, ’42, Atchison, died May 3, 2007. She is survived by siblings Rita Coupe, ’51, and John Coupe, ’51.

Marian Elizabeth (Holefelder) Armstrong, ’43, Tempe, Ariz., died Nov. 26, 2007.

Mary Celestine Martin, ’43, Princeton, Ill., died July 31, 2006.

William T. O’Mara, ’43, Kansas City, Mo., died Dec. 4, 2008.

Kathryn M. (Barrett) Lanphere, ’44, Las Vegas, NM, died March 14, 2008.

Tena (Anders) Van Rheen, ’44, Houston, Texas, died Jan. 8, 2008.

S. Ann Walter, OSB, ’44, Colorado Springs, Colo., died Jan. 13, 2009.

Mary Jane (Winfrey) Zerry, ‘44, Rockville, Md., died Jan. 3, 2009.

Mary Ann (McKelvy) Hull, ’45, Prairie Village, Kan., died Dec. 10, 2008. Among her survivors are six children, including, William ‘Mack’ Hull, ’71.

Frank Mattas, ’46, Huntsville, Ala., died June 15, 2008.

Jane M. (Hajovsky) Newman, ’46, Bellville, Texas, died Feb. 15, 2009.

Among the survivors is a sister, Vessie (Hajovsky) Peters, ’58.

Mary Ann (West) Sperandio, ’46, Houston, Texas, died April 6, 2008.

Dr. John B. Jones, ’47, Dix, Ill., died Oct. 8, 2008.

Rev. Fr. Lawrence Anthony J. Sevcik, OSB, ’48, of St. Andrew Abbey, Cleveland, Ohio, died Dec. 1, 2008.

Mary Charlotte Vesely, ’48, Lisle, Ill., died Nov. 11, 2008.

JoAnn (Ross) Walters, ’48, Dallas, Texas, died Oct. 12, 2008.

Mary JoAnn (Heise) Male, ’49, Eudora, Kan., died Jan. 10, 2009.

Survivors include her husband, Frank; two sons and four siblings, including Frances (Heise) Swalwell, ’51.

Joan E. (Downey) Schultz, St. Joseph, died Feb. 25, 2009. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul E.

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Schultz Jr., two children and seven siblings, including Abbot Brendan Downey, OSB, ’40; Fr. James Downey, OSB, ’42; Thomas Downey, ’45; and James Downey, ’51. Survivors include eight children; three siblings, S. Theresa Downey, RSCJ, ’49; Patrick Downey, ’59; and Margaret (Downey) Koechner, friend of the college; and many nieces and nephews.

Michaeline (Stinson) Staley, ’49, Rancho Mirage, Calif., died Dec. 20, 2008. Preceding her in death was a sister, Mary Jane (Stinson) Martin, ’43.

Among the survivors are six children and three siblings, Marjorie (Stinson) Slaughter, ’43; Jack Stinson, ’47; and James Stinson, ’51.

1950

Adair W. Alexander, ’50, Freehold, N.J., died Sept. 4, 2008. Survivors include his wife, Eleanor (Lakers) Alexander, ’51; and six children.

Charles G. Bulfer, ’50, Peru, Ill., died April 13, 2008.

Guy P. Galley, S., ’50, Atchison, retired football coach for Maur Hill Prep School, died Sept. 11, 2008.

Among the survivors are his wife, Virginia; and eight children, including Matthew, ’88; Michael, ’91; and Mark Galley, ’94.

John E. Gaschen, ’50, Lubbock, Texas, died Feb. 27, 2009. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Helen (Wagner) Gaschen, ’53; second wife, Dena Gaschen; brother-inlaw, Thomas G. Colwell, ’58, and sister-in-law, Rita (Roberts) Gaschen, ’52. Among the survivors are eight children and two siblings, including, Leon Gaschen, ’52; and sister-in-law, Katherine ‘Kitty’ Colwell, friend of the College. Memorials may be made to Benedictine College for the Helen Jane and John Gaschen Memorial Scholarship and sent to: Attn: James Kew, 1020 N. Second Street, Atchison, KS 66002.

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Gerald ‘Jerry’ J. Stock, Sr., ’50, St. Joseph, Mo., died Feb. 27, 2009.

Jerry attended St. Benedict’s College following his military service in 1946. Among the survivors are his wife, Jeanette; five children, including daughter, Nancy Bullimore and husband Michael; and 18 grandchildren, including Jeremy Bullimore, ’03. Memorial donations may be made to: Benedictine College, Attn: James Kew, 1020 N. Second St., Atchison, KS 66002.

CAPT Henry Daniel Casey, USCGR (Ret.), ’51, Denver, Colo., died Dec. 11, 2008. Survivors include his wife, Mary Theresa (Campbell) Casey, ’50; and four children. Memorial donations are suggested to the Benedictine Scholarship Fund, Attn: James Kew, 1020 N. Second Street, Atchison, KS 66002.

Frances A. (Donlon) Douglas, ’51, Aurora, Colo., died Jan. 29, 2009.

Gerald L. Branch, ’52, Palm Desert, Calif., died Dec. 7, 2008.

Dawn M. Diedrich, Glen Ellyn, Ill., died Dec. 13, 2008. Among the survivors are her husband, Edward F. Diedrich, ’52; and six daughters, including Trina Marie Diedrich, ’90.

Barbara Ann (Nass) Dornhoffer, ’52, Arkansas City, Kan., died Sept. 21, 2008.

Joseph V. McAuliffe, ’52, Kansas City, Mo., died Sept. 11, 2008. Survivors are his wife, Imogene (Haegelin) McAuliffe, ’45; and three daughters.

Gerald F. Punteney, ’52, Leavenworth, Kan., died Dec. 3, 2008.

the survivors are her husband, Don; brother, Dan Schuetz, ’68; and nieces, Amber Schuetz, ’05; and Kara Schuetz, ’06.

Fr. Donald Francis Joseph Scales, OSB, ’52, Richmond, Va., died Dec. 12, 2008.

Leonard J. Schwerdt, ’52, Topeka, Kan., died Feb. 9, 2009.

Lelyn J. Braun, ’53, Hays, Kan., died June 21, 2008. Among the survivors are two sons, including Glenn Braun, ’78.

John A. Nash, Columbia, Md., died April 21, 2008. Survivors include his wife, Joyce F. (Tolle) Nash, ’53.

Bill Taggart, Arlington, Va., died Jan. 15, 2009. He is survived by his wife, Judy (Ferrell) Taggart, ’53, and four children, Lura; Bill Jr.; Sarah; and Carlene, friends of the College. Over the years, Bill and Judy welcomed many Benedictine College students as interns within their publishing and conferences company, JT&A. Numerous Benedictine events have been hosted in the home of the Taggarts, including Super Bowl games, DC alumni/ae and campaign gatherings. Bill and Judy were frequent visitors to the college campus, most recently during the June 2008 alumni reunion and the 2007 Tea & Scone Party to distribute “The Mount Remembered” books, Judy authored, to the residents of St. Scholastica Hall.

John J. Trompeter, Atchison, died Feb. 15, 2009. Among the survivors is his brother, Thomas E. Trompeter, ’53; nine children, including Ed Trompeter, friend of the College, and grandchildren, Jennifer Trompeter, ’01, and Ryan Trompeter, ’05

Maurice W. Riley, ’52, Iola, Kan., died Jan. 8, 2009. Among the survivors are his wife, Rose Mary (Strathman) Riley, ’53.

Norma J. Reynolds, ’54, Orange, Calif., died Jan. 23, 2009.

Theresa (Schuetz) Roush, ’52, Kerens, Texas, died Jan. 25, 2009. Among

Thad Zurawski, ’54, Arlington Heights, Ill., died Jan. 13, 2009.

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Among the survivors are his wife, Mary Kay; four children; and brother, Robert Zurawski, ’57.

Joseph V. Baughman, ’55, Hendersonville, N.C., died Oct. 24, 2008. Among the survivors are his wife, Polly Eskenasy; and nine children.

Francis R. Fanning, ’55, Derby, Kan., died Aug. 19, 2008. Survivors include his wife, Helen; three children, and a brother and sister-in-law, Allan and Judith (Byers), ‘62, Fanning.

Lawrence S. Marchewka, ’56, Park Ridge, Ill., died March 10, 2008.

Mary Kathryn (Rochford) McAllister, ’56, River Forest, Ill., died Dec. 9, 2008. She was a wonderful friend to Benedictine College, giving of her time, talent and treasure. Her generosity enabled the college to soar with a multitude of projects including: the America’s Discovery College program, Student Union, St. Scholastica Plaza, Larry Wilcox Stadium, and installing fiber optic cabling. Her legacy will continue through the endowed Chicago Scholarship, which allows young women from St. Scholastica High School in Chicago to attend Benedictine, and her $4.3 million gift of life insurance for the endowment fund. In 1992, Mary Kay received the prestigious Cross of the Order of St. Benedict Award; in 1996, she joined the Benedictine College’s Board of Directors; and in 1999, she was honored with the Offeramus Medal as a distinguished alumna. Among the survivors are five children; Kevin, Maura, Timothy, Paul, and Mary Rose; and four siblings.

Emily C. (Moxley) Booth, ’57, Dallas, Texas, died April 26, 2006.

Tom Moritz, Beloit, Kan., died Oct. 30, 2008. Among the survivors are his wife, Marlene; two daughters; a brother and sister-in-law, David L., ’57,

and Rebecca (Reichenberger), ’59, Moritz.

Shirley A. (Nork) Lawrence, ’58, Lawrence, Kan., died Sept. 25, 2008.

James Moran, ’58, West Paterson, N.J., died Feb. 28, 2009. Among the survivors are his wife, Ann; one daughter; and sisters, Rosemary Moran, ’60; Patricia (Moran) Dulac, ’67. A brother, Joseph Moran, ’65, predeceased him on Jan. 1, 2009.

Mo., died Jan. 9, 2008. Among the survivors are his wife, Meta; five children; and one brother, Dr. Vincent Scuzzo, ’63.

Maxine (Phillips) Swyhart, ’61, Overland Park, Kan., died Jan. 16, 2008.

Jerry M. Emanuel, ’62, Fremont, Neb., died Sept. 12, 2008.

Kathryn Patricia Minnis, Atchison, died Nov. 10, 2008. Among the survivors are six children, including, Dee A. Minnis, III, ’65; Michael Minnis, ’68; Jane Ann Biffinger and Joyce Nolan, friends of the college; and granddaughter, Roxanne (Biffinger) Hug, ’92.

Don Giffee, ’59, Dawson, Neb., died Nov. 15, 2008. He is survived by his wife, Beth; and five children, including Katie Giffee, ’08.

Terence Hanna, ’59, Newton, Kan., died Jan. 29, 2008.

Joseph L. Moran, ’65, Salina, Kan., died Jan. 1, 2009. Among the survivors are his wife, Colleen; three children; and two sisters, Rosemary Moran, ’60; Patricia (Moran) Dulac, ’67. A brother, James Moran, ’58, died Feb. 28, 2009.

Clyde P. May, ‘59, Wichita, Kan., died Dec. 7, 2008.

1960

Leo H. McCormick, Jr., ’60, South Bend, Ind., died Feb. 4, 2009. Among the survivors are his wife, Carole; three children; and four siblings, including, Mary (McCormick) Farrell, ’50; and Pat (McCormick) Olson, ’62.

Carol (Jacobs) Vogt, ’60, Shawnee Mission, Kan., died July 5, 2008.

Among the survivors are her husband, Richard Vogt, ’60; four children; and five siblings, including Beatrice A. (Jacobs) Reba, ’52; Thomas B. Jacobs, ’56; Mary Jacobs, CSJ; Corky Jacobs, ’63; and S. Mary Benedict Jacobs, OSB, ’69.

Peter J. Scuzzo, ’61, Chesterfield,

Cleav J. Funk, IV, ’64, Tulsa, Okla., died Jan. 16, 2008.

Mary Loretta Scheier, Mission, Kan., died March 1, 2009. Among the survivors is her daughter, Jan M. (Scheier) Kieffaber, ’64.

Denis P. Duffy, ’65, Bedminster Township, N.J., died Dec. 30, 2008.

His wife, Helen, survives.

Marlene Stenger, Petersburg, Va., died Aug. 13, 2004. Survivors include her husband, Joseph G. Stenger, ’58, and three children.

Edwina R. (Huerter) Ribaudo, ’60, Oklahoma City, Okla., died Sept. 22, 2008. Survivors include her husband, Frank; three children; and a brother, Joseph P. Huerter, ’81.

Atchison, died Feb. 3, 2009.

Lawrence J. Beilman, ’64, Wichita, Kan., died Sept. 17, 2008. He was preceded in death by his parents, Florence and Melvin Beilman, ’40.

Mary P. (Faubion) Zabel, ’65, University Place, Wash., died June 20, 2005.

Robert S. Lutz, Alexandria, Minn., died July 12, 2008. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth (Tappen) Lutz, ’43. Survivors include two daughters, including Cheryl (Lutz) Haase, ’67, and son-in-law, Tom Haase, ’65.

Martha J. (Wyrsch) Gerstner, ’62, Lee’s Summit, Mo., died Nov. 26, 2007. Among the survivors are her husband, Jim Gerstner Sr., ’60; five children; and six siblings, including, Anne (Wyrsch) Rikard, ’67.

William C. Fischer, Kansas City, Mo., died March 19, 2008. Among the survivors are five children, including Mary Ellen (Fischer) Mercer, ’67.

Hilda A. Levret, Shawnee, Kan., died Jan. 15, 2009. Among the survivors is a son, Larry Levret, ’62.

William H. Glavin, Sedalia, Mo., died Oct. 15, 2008. Among his survivors are four children, including daughter, Sandy (Glavin), ’67; and son-in-law, Tom Nickel, ’65,

Mildred (Fuhrman) Smith, ’62,

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Gustave Charles Zader Sr., Great Falls, Mont., died May 26, 2008. He was president of Mount St. Scholastica College, Atchison, from 1962-1965.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret; and five children, including Gustave C. Zader Jr., ’67, and William T. Zader, ’68.

William James Dowsett Jr., Moline, Ill., died Jan. 18, 2008. Among the survivors are his wife, Dorothy; and son, Patrick W. Dowsett, ’68.

Mike Gorup, Jr., Kansas City, Kan., died Oct. 14, 2008. He was preceded in death by two children, Gregory Gorup, ’70, in 2003; and Stephanie Gorup, ’72, in 2006. Survivors include his wife Helen; and two children, Diane K. (Gorup) Hentges, ’68, and Paul Gorup, ’73.

John F. P. Murphy, Tampa, Fla., died Aug. 24, 2008. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Agnes. Among the survivors are his second wife, Maureen; and five children, including John F. Murphy, IV, ’68, and wife, Janice (Jarchow) Murphy, ’68; and Michael Murphy, ’70.

Leroy R. Nedrow, Shawnee, Kan., died Feb. 15, 2009. Among the survivors are his wife, Josephine; and two sons, including, Frank J. Nedrow, ’68.

Letha E. Campbell, Atchison, died April 5, 2008. Survivors include three children: Curtis, ’69; Dale, ’71; and Martha Jo Campbell, ’92.

Joan (Walden) Flanagan, ’69, died Aug. 5, 2008. Survivors include five children, including, daughter, Maureen (Flanagan) Blount, ’99.

Jerry Jansen, ’69, Fort Smith, Ark., died July 15, 2008.

Stephen F. Pretz, ‘69, Spokane Valley, Wash., died Oct. 23, 2008. Survivors include his wife, Norma; seven children; and his father, Dr. James B. Pretz, ’45.

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Elizabeth Mier, Atchison, died Aug. 30, 2008. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry A. Mier, ’49. Among the survivors are three daughters, including, Mary Jo (Mier) Laincz, ’70.

Gregg ‘Mac’ McLaughlin, ’70, Quincy, Ill., died Dec. 29, 2008. Among the survivors are five children; plus his sister and brother-in-law, Maureen (McLaughlin), ’66, and Donald Schuering, ’67.

Col. Roger B. Ouellette, (Ret.), ’70, Bedford, NH, died Dec. 19, 2008.

Among the survivors is his wife, Norma, their son, Steven R. Ouellette, ’72, died Aug. 6, 2008.

Jan C. Young, ’70, Greenville, Ill., died Sept. 5, 2004. Among the survivors are his wife, Patricia; two children; his parents, John and Anne Young; and four siblings, including, Eric, ’72; and Scott Young, ’74.

Stella U. Blaney, ’71, Stanhope, N.J., died Dec. 22, 2006. She is survived by two sons, and her mother, Stella M. Blaney.

Elizabeth Ruth Amsbaugh, Topeka, Kan., died Jan. 15, 2009. Survivors include three children, including, Linda (Amsbaugh) Coy, ’71.

survivors are his wife, Marsha; two children; and five siblings, including a brother and sister-in-law, William, ’72, and Elaine (Holthaus) O’Connor, ’72.

Peter C. Sielfleisch, III, ’72, St. Louis, Mo., died Oct. 17, 2008. Among the survivors are four brothers, including, David Sielfleisch, ’75; and his mother, Mary Jean Sielfleisch.

Anne K. Ryan, ’73, Saint Louis, Mo., died Jan. 20, 2009.

Gertrude and E. W. Timmons, Wheeling, Mo., died Dec. 2, 2008 and April 4, 2009, respectively. Survived by 12 children, including: Bill, ’73; and Stephen Timmons, ’74; Trudi Timmons Cox, ’71; Linda Timmons Bonett, ’75; Mary Timmons Flynn, ’79; and Laura Timmons Taylor, friend of the college.

Gary W. Wengert, ’73, Perryville, Mo., died Feb. 28, 2008.

Felix Sovin, Atchison, died Feb 17, 2009. Survivors include two daughters, Jacqueline (Sovin) King, ’74; and Lauraline (Sovin) Miller, ’77.

Harvey Snapp, Newton, Kan., died Sunday, Oct. 28, 2008. Among the survivors are his wife, Marguerite; and five children, including Donald Snapp, ’74.

James L. Paysen, ’71, Clinton, Iowa, died Nov. 30, 2008.

Gary Housh, Atchison, died June 1, 2008. Among the survivors is his wife, Elaine A. Amrein, ’75.

Mary L. Demmon, Atchison, died March 25, 2008. Among the survivors are a son, Terry M. Demmon, ’72, and granddaughter, Jill Demmon, who attended Benedictine one year, (1987-88).

Maurine M. (Colburn) Miller, ’75, Lake Charles, Mo., died April 18, 2008. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lt. Col. C. Jefferson Miller, ’71.

Mary-Elizabeth Dobson, ’72, Irving, Texas, died Feb. 3, 2009. She is survived by two children, Cameron and Taylor.

John J. O’Connor, Prairie Village, Kan., died Sept. 11, 2008. Among the

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Vern J. Ostdiek, Ph.D., ’75, Nelson, Neb., died Oct. 23, 2008. He was an associate professor of physics at Benedictine College, from 1978-2008 and retired as professor emeriti. He co-authored “Inquiry into Physics,” which has had five editions since. He

was an avid hangglider, long distance bicyclist, dedicated teacher and reader. Among his survivors are six siblings, including John Ostdiek, ‘72.

Vern was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Irene Ostdiek.

An endowed scholarship has been created in Vern’s name, as well as a memorial award for a current student in Physical Concepts (PC 110) who has demonstrated exceptional enthusiasm for and inquisitiveness in learning about the natural world. Donations for the Vern Ostdiek Scholarship or the Vern Ostdiek Memorial Award may be sent to James Kew, Benedictine College, 1020 North Second Street, Atchison, KS 66002-1499.

Senator James B. Pearson, Gloucester, Mass., died Jan. 13, 2009. He served 17 years in the U.S. Senate from Kansas. In 1975, Benedictine College bestowed an honorary Doctor of Laws degree upon Sen. Pearson.

John E. Miklozek Jr., ’76, Newark, Del., died Oct. 19, 2008.

Stanley E. Frost, Effingham, Kan., died Aug. 24, 2008. Among his survivors are a son and daughter-in-law, Phillip and Susie Frost, ’79.

Smith Goetting, Norborne, Mo., died Feb. 20, 2008. Among the survivors are his wife, Judith; and four children, Paula Goetting-Meinsky, ’79; Anthony Goetting, ’80; Anne (Goetting) Moberg, ’82; and Steven Goetting, ’83.

Lawrence J. Ludwig, Atchison, died Nov. 19, 2008. Survivors include his wife, Mildred, three sons, a daughter and his son-in-law, Theresa and Robert Textor, ’79.

Dorothy (Tolson) Davison, ’79, St. Augustine, Fla., died Feb. 21, 2008.

1980

Rose Ann (McGuire) Mulvany, Kansas City, Mo., died Nov. 8, 2008. Among the survivors are her husband, Blake

Mulvany; nine children, including Kevin, ’80, and his wife Mary (Blackburn), ’80, Mulvany; Tim Mulvany, ’81; and 13 grandchildren, including David Mulvany, ’06.

’84; and Justin ‘Judge’ Downey, ’95.

Leo R. Wilburn, Atchison, died Sept.

20, 2008. Among the survivors are his wife, Peggy; and five children, including Steven Wilburn, ’82.

Francis L. Barak, Council Bluffs, Iowa, died April 16, 2008. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; and five children, including, Rev. Christopher L. Barak, ’81, and Sheila (Barak) Graham, ’84.

Dorothy M. Lovelace, RN, Aurora, Colo., died Aug. 27, 2008. She is survived by her husband, Donald; and four children, including, Mary (Lovelace) Ernst, ’83.

Pat Moriarty, Atchison, died Nov. 18, 2008. Among the survivors are five children, including Jackie (Moriarty) DeGaetano, ’81; Michael Moriarty, ’90; and Bonnie (Moriarty) Moore, former Benedictine employee; and 10 grandchildren, including, Nicholas Moore, ’05; Tim Moore, ’05; and Carolyn DeGaetano, a current BC student.

Carol Kay Guinan, Muskogee, Okla., died Jan. 22, 2009. Among the survivors are her husband, Jack; and four daughters, including, Monica (Guinan) Ptomey, ’83; and Sarah (Guinan), ’83; and Doug Henggeler, ’84.

Leon B. Henry, Shawnee, Kan., died Feb. 26, 2009. Among the survivors are his mother, Rita Henry; three siblings, including Gerald Henry, ’81; sister-in-law, Linda (Becker) Henry, ’81; several nieces and nephews, including, Sarah (Henry) Swafford; ’04, Hank Henry, ’08; and current student, Ted Henry; and two uncles, Elmer, ’60; and Ed Henry, ’74.

Jason B. Harper, Sr., ’83, Germantown, Md., died Feb. 16, 2009. He was a Principal with Deloitte Tax LLP; a member of the firm’s Tax Controversy Services Group in the New York office. Among the survivors are his wife, Dawn Morton; four children, Andre, Jennifer, Brittany, and Jason Jr.; and his parents, Winford E. Harper and Helen P. Harper. A scholarship fund for Jason’s children has been established and may be sent to: Harper Family Children’s Education Trust, c\o Dawn Morton, 12203 Stardrift Dr., Germantown, MD 20876.

Jane Smith, Atchison, died Feb. 21, 2009. Among the survivors are her husband, Fritz; and a son, Charles R. Smith, ‘81.

Patricia A. VanGaasbeek, Topeka, Kan., died March 17, 2008. Pat was the first director of student health services at Benedictine. Among the survivors is a son, Michael VanGaasbeek, ’81.

Theresa L. Downey, Jefferson City, Mo., died Jan. 8, 2009. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Downey, ’45; two brothersin-law, Abbot Brendan Downey, OSB, ’40; and Fr. James Downey, OSB, ’42. Among the survivors are eight children, including, Roseanne Downey Shepard, ’82; Mike Downey,

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Jacqueline M. Haas, ’83, Tulsa, Okla., died Feb. 17, 2009.

Betty McGillin, Kansas City, Mo., died Nov. 23, 2008. Survivors are her husband, Jim; and four children, including, Lisa (McGillin) Ibarra, ’83.

Donna Hill, Newman, Calif., died Oct. 17, 2008. Among the survivors are her husband, Joseph; two sons, David, ’84; and Michael, ’84, and daughter-in-law, Joan (Sullivan) Hill, ’83.

Eleanor Kohake, Seneca, Kan., died Sept. 28, 2008. Survived by five daughters, including, Amy (Kohake),

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’84, and her husband, Steven D. Minnis, ’82; Renee (Kohake) Washburn, ’87; 16 grandchildren, including Mandy (Holthaus) Ficarotta, ’98; Tisha (Holthaus) Hermesch, ’00, Jaci Hermesch, ’03, Emily Hermesch, ’06, and Matt Minnis, a current Benedictine student.

Charles M. Norick, Lakewood, Colo., died Nov. 2, 2006. Among the survivors are his wife Patricia; and five children, including Mary P. Norick, ’85.

Clarence Piontek, Washington, Mo., died Aug. 27, 2008. Among the survivors are his wife, Anita; and seven children, including, Michael G. Piontek, ’85.

Leo Schulte, Orlando, Fla., died Dec. 26, 2008. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Lisa (Schulte) Hamlin, ’84, Nov. 1, 2007. Among the survivors are his wife, Mary Ann Schulte; two sons, including Scott J. Schulte, ’85; and brother-in-law, Michael Parrino, ’74.

Carolyn Sue Epperly, Wichita, Kan., died June 16, 2008. Survived by five children, including daughter, Jodi (Epperly) Pyle, ’86.

Howard E. Scott, Deming, N.M., died Oct. 15, 2008. He is survived by two children, including, Byron Scott, ’86.

Clement J. Suellentrop, Colwich, Kan., died Jan. 18, 2008. Among the survivors are his wife Kathryn; and 12 children, including Mike Suellentrop, ’87.

Laurie A. Tholen, ’88, Aurora, Colo., died Jan. 29, 2009. Among the survivors are her parents, Lawrence and Sandra Tholen; and sister, Karen S. (Tholen) Burnett, ’88.

1990

Sarah Macy, Lenexa, Kan., died Sept.

30, 2008. She was four-years-old.

Among the survivors are her parents, Steve and Joan (Torline) Macy, ’90; and two sisters, Catherine, 11; and Isabelle, 10.

Shirley Dean Gallaghejustr, Vienna, Va., died Nov. 14, 2008. Survivors include her daughter, Kimberly Ann (Gallagher), ’91, and son-in-law, Maj. Michael Brox, ’90, U.S.A.F. Lou Goad, Harlingen, Texas, died Feb. 19, 2008. Survivors include his wife, Olga; and their daughter, Rosa (Goad) Dolven, ’91.

Bernice Sellhorst, Howells, Neb., died March 18, 2008. Among the many survivors are two daughters, Nancy (Sellhorst) Welzenbach, ’93; and Lori (Sellhorst) Rauber, a former Benedictine employee; and son-in-law, Kevin Rauber, ’85.

Max Donaldson, Atchison, died March 24, 2008. Survivors include his wife, Nancy; and one son, Wayne L. Donaldson, MEA ’94.

John R. Seetin,’94, Rushville, Mo., died Dec. 20, 2008.

Ross C. Jones, S., Mansfield, Texas, died Oct. 15, 2008. Survivors include his wife, Karen; and a daughter, Melissa Jones-Meyer, ’97.

Thomas A. Fogarty, Vienna, Va., died Dec. 2, 2008. Tom was instrumental with publicity for Benedictine College in a June 8, 2000, “USA Today” news article. Among the survivors are his wife, Suzie; and three children, including Stephen E. Fogarty, ’99.

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2000

Kay White, Kansas City, Mo., died Nov. 2, 2008. Husband Tom White, Jr., and Kay served as co-chairs of the Benedictine College Parents Association from 1997-2006; and they received the BC Family Award in October 2006. Among the survivors with ties to Benedictine are her husband and daughters; Erin (White) Neuburger, ’01, and Colleen (White) Wysong, ’02; son-in-law, Paul Neuburger, ’01; and sister-in-law, Susie (White) Ell, ’72.

Gil Dieteman, Saint Louis, Mo., died on Monday, Nov. 17, 2008. Survivors include a daughter, Tonia Dieteman, ’00.

Mary Lee West, Atchison, died March 12, 2007. Among the survivors are her husband, Gene; and three children, including Dr. Cecelia (Averill) Nashatizadeh, ’02.

Julie Ann Hegarty, Atchison, died Jan. 22, 2009. Among the survivors are her husband, Pat; three children, including Patrick B. Hegarty, ’05; and six siblings, including Mary Lou (Franken) Theis, ’68.

Lester Marlatt, Atchison, died Feb. 23, 2009. Among the survivors are his wife, Ruthanna; two sons, Steve and Tom Marlatt; a daughter, Shirley (Marlatt) Cline; and granddaughter, Casey Marlatt, ’05.

Raven

cha mpio n shi p s

a continued tradition of athletic excellence Football

CIC Championship: 1953, 1956, 1958, 1960 Boothill Bowl Championship: 1976 Steamboat Bowl Championship: 1991 HAAC Championship: 1992, 1995, 1997, 2000

Men’s Basketball

1953-54 NAIA National Championship, District Championship, CIC Champions 1964-65 NAIA District Championship 1966-67 NAIA National Championship, District Championship 1969-70 NAIA District Championship

Women’s Basketball

HAAC Championship: 1997-98. 1998-99, 2005-06, 2007-08

Golf

HAAC Championship: 1994 Men’s tennis HAAC Championship: 2005, 2006, 2007

Women’s Tennis HAAC Championship: 1994

Baseball

HAAC Championship: 1992, 1993, 1995, 2003 NAIA Region V Championship: 2000, 2005

Men’s soccer HAAC Championship: 1995

Women’s soccer

HAAC Championship: 1998

Volleyball

HAAC Championship: 2000

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Non-Profit U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lawrence, KS PERMIT #116 BENEDICTINE COLLEGE 1020 NORTH SECOND STREET ATCHISON, KANSAS 66002-1499

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