SPIRITof GIVING SUMMER 2016
Called to Greatness EDITOR Tom Hoopes G’10
ART DIRECTOR Amy Nell
WRITERS Tim Andrews ’88 Steve Johnson G’12 Amy Meara ’99 Paula Moss Rosemary Wilkerson
WAYS TO GIVE CLASS NOTES GIVEGarrison BY MAIL Kathy
Gifts made by check should be payable to Benedictine College and mailed to: PHOTOGRAPHERS Office of Advancement Hayleigh Diebolt 1020 North Kelly Elias ’85Second Street Atchison, KS 66002-1499 Christa Rieger Janelle Perkins
GIVE BY PHONE WAYS TO GIVE 1-800-766-0078 ext. 7416 GIVE BY MAIL ONLINE GIVING Gifts made by check should be payable to Visit http://my.benedictine.edu/bcannualfund. Benedictine College and mailed to: Office of Advancement 1020 North Second Street GIFTS OF Atchison, KSSTOCK 66002-1499 By donating appreciated securities or mutual fund shares, you can provide a lasting contribution while GIVE BY PHONE receiving tax benefits, such as capital gains tax 1-800-766-0078 ext. 7416 savings.
ONLINE GIVING Visit http://my.benedictine.edu/bcannualfund. REAL ESTATE Your gift provides a convenient way for you to enjoy GIFTS OF STOCK a charitable deduction based on the current fair By donating securities mutual fund market valueappreciated of your property, and or it can reduce theshares, you can provide a lasting contribution while receiving tax size and complexity of your estate. benefits, such as capital gains tax savings.
ESTATE PLANNING REAL ESTATE
Remember Benedictine in your way Willfor or you estate Your gift provides a convenient to enjoy a plan. We also offer life-income giftscurrent that provide charitable deduction based on the fair market value income and immediate Please of your property, and it tax canbenefits. reduce the size contact and complexity of Tim Andrews, your estate. ’88 at 913-360-7363 or tandrews@ benedictine.edu. If you already have named Benedictine College in your estate plan, contact us ESTATE PLANNING so we can welcome you into the Will Benedictine Remember Benedictine in your or estateLegacy plan. We also Society. offer life-income gifts that provide income and immediate tax benefits. Please contact Tim Andrews ’88 at 913-360-7363 or tandrews@benedictine.edu. If you already have named Benedictine College in your estate plan, contact us so we can welcome you into the Benedictine Legacy Society.
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little over a year ago the Advancement Office sent a survey to a select group of individuals asking for their feedback on their experiences and impressions of Benedictine College today. To see results: mybenedictinegiving.org/survey-results/ The response was so overwhelming from this select group that we decided to expand the base and send another survey to give more people an opportunity to tell us what they think. If you don’t want to wait for the survey to show up in your mailbox or your inbox, visit: mybenedictinegiving.org/2016survey It is important in our work that we continually ask ourselves and you about the job we are doing. Our mission of educating men and women within a community of faith and scholarship guides our strategic vision; and informs our daily decisions as well. Every now and again it is critical to look beyond the retention and graduation rates and gather valuable information from those who have put their degrees to work in their lives and careers. While you may not think of us daily, we certainly think of you. Are we providing value to you? Are we making you proud as we continue to build one of America’s great Catholic colleges? This is one of our driving forces behind the Spirit of Giving publication. We want to demonstrate to you that we value you and your contributions to this great place, whether it is through time, talent or treasure. In this issue you will read about some amazing Ravens. One particular article is especially moving, that of the Raven Memorial Park. This special park is built to honor the memory of all the Ravens who lost their lives while they were current students. A dedication of the park will be held on Sunday, October 30, 2016; the concluding event of our 2016 Homecoming Weekend. Come and visit! We are always excited to hear from you. God bless you and Benedictine College. For Benedictine,
Kelly J. Vowels ’85 Vice President for Advancement
ON THE COVER: Matthew R. ’82 and Anne (Wetta) ’82 Dolan with Cardinal Dolan at Commencement. See page 12 for full story.
S pirit of G iving
Stunning New Park is Benedictine Centerpiece
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he stunning new Raven Memorial Park, which stretches between the Raven Walk and the Student Recreation Center, will feature a waterfall, a stone pathway to the Grotto, benches, and a memorial to the unborn — all of it funded by donors. On Homecoming Weekend, the final piece will be unveiled: a statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The area will be dedicated as Raven Memorial Park on Oct. 30, 2016, the Sunday of Homecoming Weekend. The day’s events include a Mass at 10:00 a.m. in the Abbey Church, the reading of the names, a procession to the park, an official unveiling, a blessing, and the Prayer of Enthronement of the Sacred Heart. Benefactors funded the project to remember loved ones and it is dedicated to those who passed away while they were Benedictine College students. “Remembering those who have died is important to any Benedictine institution, and this is something we have been preparing for a long time,” said President Minnis. “The first concepts for the park date back to 2003.” The current plan for the park took shape in 2009 when the consolidation of a previous memorial was planned. The park is funded in part by gifts to a memorial fund that received donations from many families over the years. Dating back to 1882, the college and its founding institutions — St. Benedict’s College and Mount St. Scholastica College —have recorded the loss of 65 students and each a longstanding tradition of honoring them. These students have been remembered in a variety of ways, but the college has been searching for a means to properly memorialize all those who were taken while still students. With the addition of new campus features, a new center of campus began to take shape. Mary’s Grotto was dedicated in 2009, the St. John Paul II Student Center renamed in 2014, new residence halls in 2015, and finally the newly built Student Recreation Center, which will be dedicated this year on Family Weekend. “Students will pass through this part of campus as much as any other as they go between classes and activities,” said
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President Minnis. “It will now be a showcase for our mission by offering places for community, expressions of faith, and even benches for study.” For the past decade, memorial gifts to the college have gone to the project. Additional donors have also stepped forward and this lasting memorial in the heart of campus is finally coming to fruition. The 8-foot bronze statue was donated by Rich and Cindy Dickason of Atchison, who helped oversee the sculpting and installation. The Dickasons were honored with the Cross of the Order of St. Benedict in 2008. Rich has worked for The Exchange National Bank & Trust for over 40 years, much of it as president and CEO. He and Cindy have served the health and educational needs of the community through their involvement with the local hospital, the YMCA, DoVes, St. Benedict Catholic Elementary School, Maur Hill-Mount Academy, Courtney S. Turner Trust, and other charities and civic groups, including Benedictine College. Rich has served on the boards of many of these Atchison organizations and he served on the Finance Committee of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas as well. Cindy worked with Sr. Helen at Mount St. Scholastica Monastery on a fine arts program for elementary students and has served as chairperson of the board of Northeast Kansas Mental Health. Mike Ismert, whose Little Flower Foundation is another major donor to the project, is the parent of Benedictine alumnus Gabriel Ismert. His gift memorializes his wife, Mary Therese Ismert, as well as Martin E. Ismert, Lawrence B. Byrne, Rose Marie Byrne, and Lawrence A. Byrne. Ismert is a Kansas City entrepreneur formerly of Sioux Chief Manufacturing. He is active in Christ the King Parish. He said of his wife, who passed away in 2012, “In her softspoken voice, she offered never-ending service to others, especially the unborn and the mentally challenged. God bless Benedictine College, and all you do to build His kingdom.” “We thank the Dickasons and Mike Ismert for their support of sacred spaces on the Benedictine College campus,” said President Minnis.
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PROUD PARENTS Benefactors Witness Birth at the Nursing Open House
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n the delivery room a crowd watched — a group that included the mother, Noelle; her attending nurse, Phyllis Lieb; two Benedictine College nursing students; and the proud benefactors, Deacon Chuck ’71 and Susan Adams. The Adams had made the nearly three hour trip from their home in Omaha to attend the birth, making it just in time. Adjunct Professor Phyllis Lieb exclaimed that the baby was crowning as the top of his head was appearing. Just shortly before noon, a baby boy made his appearance. Despite the swollen eyes and jointed limbs, Chuck and Susan couldn’t have been more proud of the baby and his mother. Then Nurse Lieb said, “Okay, let’s put him back in and do it again.” The observers were watching a birthing simulator — one that not only allows students to train on models before working on real patients, but also allows professors to test their students’ clinical skills prior to making patient rounds. With combined gifts totaling more than $46,000 from Chuck and Susan Adams and the Guy I. Bromley Trust; the Benedictine College Nursing Program was able to purchase a NOELLE® Maternal and Neonatal Birthing Simulator; monitor, recording, and debriefing system.
neonatal and pediatric nurse, and was a nurse educator at University of Nebraska Medical Center UNMC College of Nursing before serving as the Director of Women and Children Services at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha, where her responsibilities included labor and delivery and neonatal intensive care. Recently retired, she now spends time as a health services volunteer in her community. “Hands-on experience is essential for every nursing student,” said Susan. “When timing of a delivery does not provide the students with this opportunity in the clinical setting, the simulator can help to fill this gap. When the nurse knows what to do in a crisis, it can make a lasting difference in the lives of both the mother and the baby.” Chuck, who graduated from St. Benedict’s College with a bachelor’s degree in economics in 1971, was also onboard with the opportunity to support his Alma Mater
Benedictine College juniors Natalie Malone and Rachel Snyder check the mother’s vital signs after her delivery.
Benedictine College seniors Natalie Roberts and Rebecca Merck observe as adjunct professor Phyllis Lieb delivers the baby manikin for proud benefactors Deacon Chuck ’71 and Susan Adams.
“This is a huge deal,” said Dr. Michele Hinds, Associate Professor of Nursing. “The fact that we can take students through labor and delivery in half an hour rather than following a patient over the course of hours or days is amazing.” With a 40-year career as a maternal-child nurse, Susan Adams immediately understood the program’s need for a birthing simulator. Susan worked in direct patient care as a
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in a new program that reflected his wife’s career and interest. “Susan has made a difference in the lives of many people as a nurse. Her nursing education (in Minnesota) provided a solid knowledge base complimented with compassion and care. Since her college has closed, this program offers us the opportunity to contribute to building that knowledge base for future nurses,” said Chuck. The Birthing simulator, NOELLE, has a precision system for repeatable, rapid delivery as well as rare clinical situations. “Many health care providers are using simulators before they go out into practice,” said Hinds. “It gives the students confidence with a hands-on experience.”
S pirit of G iving
DOROTHY’S N U R S E S Benefactor Remembers Wife through Gifts to Nursing Program
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very year, like clockwork, Richard Miller, a farmer from Denton, Kansas, makes a trip to the Benedictine College campus to hand deliver a check to invest in the Dorothy (Joyce) Miller Nursing Scholarship. He times his visit with the annual campus Discovery Day, so he can witness first-hand the impact his scholarship is making in the lives of future nurses. At the 2016 Discovery Day Symposium, Miller made his way around the student poster exhibits in the Ferrell Academic Center and listened to senior Melissa Ott explain her research on the “Effects of Perinatal Hospice on Mothers” and senior Molly Minnis describe her “Assessment of Women’s Health Knowledge.” “Every student I meet makes me remember my wife when she was starting out as a nurse,” said Miller. “I get a lot of satisfaction out of dedicating a scholarship to my wife.” As a licensed registered nurse, Miller’s wife, Dorothy Lucile (Joyce) Miller was extremely devoted to her patients. She practiced orthopedic nursing for several years in several different states including Missouri, California, Texas, Illinois, and Kansas. She retired in 1996 after 41 years of nursing. Dorothy passed away in 2005, after a long illness due to unknowingly contracting Hepatitis C during the early stages of her career. “The death of my wife was several years before the nursing program started at Benedictine College,” said Miller. “My daughter suggested we take the memorial gifts and add to them to start a new scholarship at the college.” The Dorothy (Joyce) Miller Nursing Scholarship was the first nursing scholarship established for the Benedictine College Department of Nursing. Last year it provided an award of close to $2,000 for a nursing student. “As small as my contribution is to the student’s tuition, they are always so appreciative,” said Miller. “I feed it every year to get the principal high enough to provide a larger scholarship.”
Miller’s four children, Barbara “Barb” Holder ’79, Richard “Rick” ’80, Patrick “Pat”, and Deborah “Deb” Van Laar ’83, attended Benedictine College. Despite the fact that his children graduated more than 30 years ago, Miller still feels at home on the Benedictine campus. In addition to attending the Discovery Day Symposium in April, Miller returned twice more to meet the incoming student nurses during the department’s open house, and again during commencement weekend to celebrate with the graduating nursing class at their pinning ceremony. “It is so good to see young faces entering the nursing field,” said Miller. “They are so cheerful when you come around for a visit that it just draws you back to the campus.”
Nursing Program benefactor Richard Miller had the chance to meet some of the incoming nursing students who will begin the program in their junior year during Fall 2016. Pictured from left to right are Katherine Rich, Miller, Sydney Wolf, Brittany Bosarge, and Ann Marie Guernsey. Editor’s Note: As this story went to press, Richard Miller passed away. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on in his Raven family of nurses.
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Inspiring Endowments THANKING MR. HENRY
BOB HENRY POLITICAL SCIENCE SCHOLARSHIP n the mid to late 1960s it was not uncommon for St. Benedict’s College students to find themselves sitting next to military captains and lieutenant colonels, “Bootstrappers” who had been to Vietnam and back. Bob Henry began his teaching career of 39 years at Benedictine colleges by following in the footsteps of his older brother, Edward, at Mount St. Scholastica College. Bob taught political science at MSSC from 1956 until the spring of 1965, and then joined the faculty of St. Benedict’s College and became the chairman for the Political Science Department. He was named an Outstanding Educator of America in 1970. In 1972, he became the Dean of Benedictine College and served in that capacity for two years. He retired in 1995. St. Benedict’s College alumnus John English ’68 remembers Associate Professor Robert C. Henry gratefully, “Mr. Henry was my favorite teacher while I was at St. Benedict’s. I always felt that I would not have gone or been accepted at law school if it hadn’t been for him.” Bob earned degrees from St. John’s University and the University of Minnesota, then served two years in the Army. In 1955 he married Kathleen A. Pull and the couple soon moved to Atchison, where they raised four children. The Bob Henry Political Science Scholarship was created by Henry’s children, Robert Jr., Joseph, Mary ’81, and Tim; and former students, John Horan ’64, Barney Tonquest ’67, John English ’68, Paul Haerle ’73, Justin X. Carroll ’77, Mike Walsh ’80, Jim Gorman ’80, Stephen D. Minnis ’82, Susan Begesse Prose ’84, Kent Prose ’84, and Tim Gallagher ’85. Henry left Benedictine College to serve as a state representative from 1977-78, and then returned to teach at the college until his retirement in 1995.
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PAPA BEAR’S RAVENS
GEORGE S. HALAS FOOTBALL CURRENT GIFT SCHOLARSHIP
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ver the years, several of George S. Halas’ grandchildren and great-grandchildren have attended and graduated from Benedictine College. The Chicago Bears Football Club remembered him with a gift of $50,000 to create the George S. Halas Football Current Gift Scholarship to be awarded to Benedictine College football student-athletes from the state of Illinois. At the time of his enshrinement as a charter member of the Professional Football Hall of Fame, Halas, known as “Papa Bear,” was honored for his contributions as a player, coach and club owner. It all started in 1920 when the Staley Starch Works of Decatur, Illinois, assigned to its new recreational director, George S. Halas, the task of organizing a football team. Halas did the job so well that the Decatur Staleys won 13 games and lost only one in its first season. On Sept. 17, 1920, in an automobile showroom in Canton, Ohio, Halas participated in a meeting that led to the organization of the American Football Association, which became the National Football League. Raven grandparent Halas acquired the Staley team, moved it to Chicago, and renamed it The Chicago Bears. In 40 years as an NFL coach, the first 10 of which were as a player-coach, Halas’ teams were 321–142–31. As a coach, Halas was first in many ways: holding daily practice sessions, utilizing films of opponents’ games for study, scheduling a team barnstorming tour around the country and having his team’s games broadcast on radio. When he retired, he could point to eight NFL titles leading one of pro football’s most famous franchises. Benedictine College is proud of its connection to this football legend, through his Raven grandchildren.
S pirit of G iving
CREATING FUTURE LEADERS
SEIB MEMORIAL GREGORIAN FELLOWS LEADERSHIP
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hat we have is not ours; all that we have is a gift from God, of which we are only the stewards.” That statement was a guiding principle when Gary ’67 and Gloria Decker Seib established the Seib Memorial Gregorian Fellows Leadership Endowment in memory of his parents, Paul and Mary Seib. Gary and Gloria felt that helping to develop leaders for the Church would be the best way to honor his parents’ strong faith, unwavering love and personal sacrifices. Paul P. Seib, Sr. was born in Obermonjour, Russia in 1902 and migrated to Ellis County, Kansas in 1909. Mary R. (Stoecklein) Seib was born near Munjor, Kansas in 1905. Their families were part of the large migration of German Russian people (aka “Volga Germans”) who came to America for freedom and economic opportunity. Both families later established residence in Ness County, Kansas. Mary and Paul married in 1926, in Ness City, and provided for a family of 14 children by farming. Mary died in 1987 and Paul died in 1989, each survived by 13 of their children. Dedication to church, family and education for their children were of high priority. Based on Gary’s experience at St. Benedict’s College, the couple decided to fund education in a way that would support the Church. Providing an endowed education fund also allowed Gary a chance to “pay back” the scholarships he received that allowed him to attend St. Benedict’s College. The Seib Memorial Gregorian Fellows Leadership Endowment supports students participating in the Gregorian Fellows Leadership Program. Students who benefit from this endowed fund shall immerse themselves in Benedictine College and pursue lives of spiritual, intellectual and personal greatness and becoming fervent leaders for the Church and the Country.
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THEIR FIGHT SONG
LAWRENCE J. AND PAULA J. VANSTON SIMON SCHOLARSHIP
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avens are flying … soaring on to glory, faithful to the story. Ravens always fly on high.” Paula Vanston and Larry Simon were students at Mount St. Scholastica College and St. Benedict’s College in the mid-1960s. They have fond memories of friends, faculty and an NAIA national basketball championship. Paula graduated in 1970 while Larry was a Marine serving in Vietnam. They were married in July 1970 upon Larry’s return. August 1971 found them back in Atchison where Larry completed his degree in December 1972. They settled in Atchison, where they stayed until 2004. The late 1970s and early 1980s were economically rough times for private colleges and universities. Many Catholic colleges were forced to close. A group of determined members of the Benedictine community found a pathway to survive and grow into the future. Over the years, the Simons witnessed the return of prosperity and the amazing growth of Benedictine College which still continues today. The Benedictines now offer a rare opportunity in the small town of Atchison for children to receive a Catholic education from preschool through master’s degrees. Catholic education still exists in this country because Catholics want it to survive — “faithful to the story.” Endowing a scholarship is a way to keep Benedictine College “always flying high.” The Lawrence J. and Paula J. Vanston Simon Scholarship was established with a gift of $25,000 to enable non-traditional students to receive their degrees. Preference is given to military veterans including National Guard and Reserves, students of non-traditional age and/ or sociology majors. For information on creating an endowed scholarship, please contact Rosemary Wilkerson, Executive Director of Development, 913-360-7417 or rosemaryw@benedictine.edu.
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A Raven Reunion
Alumni Celebrate Memories and Honor Two of their Own.
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ore than 400 alumni of Benedictine College, Mount St. Scholastica College, and St. Benedict’s College returned to Atchison for the annual Alumni Reunion Weekend, June 10-12. The event featured the presentation of the Benet Awards, which date back to the founding institutions and honor prominent female and male alumni. This year, Marjorie “Marj” Henningsen ’86 received the 2016 Offeramus Medal and John Gould ’66 received the 2016 Kansas Monk Award.
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1941 • 1946 • 1951 • 1956 • 1961 • 1966 • 1971 • 1976 • 1981 • 1986 • 1991 • 1996 • 2001 • 2006 • 2011 •
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reun 1958
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Wine Tasting
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• 1941 • 1946 • 1951 • 1956 • 1961 • 1966 • 1971 • 1976 • 1981 • 1986 • 1991 • 1996 • 2001 • 2006 • 2011
Science Transformation Meet the campaign leaders in Benedictine’s unprecedented building project
The Science and Engineering Building addition and renovation campaign is rising as a symbol of how philanthropy can make exceptional science education at Benedictine College even better. Key donors are helping make the $26 million project possible. Along with a major donation from Dr. Judith Hemberger ’69, a member of Benedictine College’s Board of Directors, leading donors include Dr. Tom Kemlage ’83, a dentist in Fenton, Missouri, and his wife, Joan Moyer Kemlage ’85; Larry ’60 and Tresa Buessing, who have joined Benedictine College students on multiple research trips, and Dr. F. Jay Ohmes ’84, a dentist in Weldon Spring, Mo., and his wife, Jane Wetta Ohmes ’84, who are the proud parents of recent Benedictine College graduate Michael Ohmes ’16.
The Climber
Dr. Judith Hemberger ’69, loves the outdoors. It is not uncommon to find her hiking behind her home in Colorado. Although hiking and climbing are both a hobby and a fitness activity for Judy, she has also made quite a climb in her education and career over the years. “I was brought up by these remarkable nuns who were leaders in their field and good mentors, so I never knew a glass ceiling,” said Judy. “I was taught by women leaders. After graduating from Mount St. Scholastica College in 1969 with a bachelor’s degree in biology, Judy received her MBA from Rockhurst University and her PhD in pharmacology from the University of Missouri – Kansas City. She has more than 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. She continues to work in the field of cancer research to develop drugs for patients with Head and Neck and Glioblastoma (brain) cancer. As a current member of the Benedictine College Board of Directors, Judy has supported many causes; but when the campaign for the Science and Engineering Building was announced, she knew she was being called to make another climb. Judy understood that without fixing the Westerman building, great science couldn’t continue. A pledge of $1 million was a lofty gift for her financial situation, but Judy decided the college’s need for excellence in the sciences was great and she could accomplish her goal over several years. to give back,” said Judy. “It is a real joy to W E“You S T - Ahave D D I TaI Oresponsibility N offer support to people who have sacrificed for you. Science changes, but fundamental ethical and spiritual principles don’t change.”
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The Connectors
If you are a Benedictine College graduate living in or around the St. Louis area, chances are you have met Dr. Tom ’83 and Joan Moyer ’85 Kemlage at the alumni golf tournament or the annual alumni Christmas party. “Joan and I are so passionate about Benedictine because we met there and we met most of our best friends there while we were in school,” said Tom. In 2006, the Kemlages donated $10,000 to help create a $100,000 endowed fund for student summer research on the Benedictine Bottoms. In 2008, the Kemlages donated $25,000 to establish the Kemlage Endowed Biology Travel Fund. “There were research trips every year, and I was lucky enough to go,” Tom said. “That kind of experience is what really gives you a full liberal arts science degree.” Last year, Tom and Joan were the first to pledge their support with a gift of $100,000 for the science and engineering campaign. Not only did they make a gift, but Tom also began calling every Raven he knew within a 100-mile radius, every classmate from his days in the Westerman Hall labs, and even a former roommate living in Germany to encourage them to make their own pledge. “The renovation of the Science Hall is very important to me,” said Tom. “I felt it was my duty and honor to call fellow alumni and ask them to also support their alma mater.” He added: “I remember a group of us talking with Dr. Bowen after a senior trip and he said, ‘Don’t forget about giving back to the college when you graduate.’ I would like to challenge my buddies to get together and name a hall to honor Dr. Dan Bowen.”
Celebrating the Past. Transforming the Future.
Westerman Hall is getting an upgrade this year ...
The Travelers For years Larry ’60 and Tresa Buessing accompanied dozens of
Benedictine College students on research trips with their biology professors. They have traveled the world visiting the coral reefs in Australia, touring the fishing docks in Thailand, photographing the architecture in Egypt, riding horses through the mountains of Costa Rica, and meeting a lion up close and personal during an African Safari. After seeing the wildebeests of Masai Mara, visiting an active archaeological excavation in the Valley of the Kings in Egypt, and riding the zip line in Costa Rica; the Buessings knew they wanted to remember these once-in-a-lifetime experiences with a gift to the college. The Buessings pledged $25,000 to name a faculty office in honor of their faculty host, Dr. Dan Bowen. “There are a lot of places we would never have been if it hadn’t been for the Benedictine College biology trips,” said Larry Buessing ’60. “You are traveling with students who have a lot of energy.” The students who participate on the research trips receive college credit and have individual projects that they are responsible for completing. The Buessings witnessed first-hand the eco-systems of the different countries they visited as students collected and studied insects, fish and plant life. “The tour guides were tuned into all of the student projects, so we went to places that no other tourists would ever see,” said Larry. Dr. Dan Bowen said this approach is key to Benedictine College science “What we have to do in the sciences is actually go out and do science,” he said. But the travel has to build on a strong classroom foundation. “I think that once you stick these really solid programs in really good facilities that the sciences will explode at Benedictine College,” said Bowen.
The Family
It was a weekend that brought back a lot of memories of college days for alumni couple Dr. F. Jay ’84 and Jane Wetta ’84 Ohmes, as they watched their son, Michael Ohmes, cross the stage in the Ralph Nolan Gymnasium to accept his diploma and join the Benedictine College family as a member of the class of 2016. Family members stayed in residence halls on campus, ate meals in the cafeteria and wandered on the campus grounds. Everything was so familiar, but still new and enhanced, that is until they got to the Science and Engineering Building. Westerman Hall holds a lot of memories for Jay, who received his bachelor’s degree in biology. His son Michael also spent a lot of time in the building where he also studied biology. However, that is where things became too similar. Jay and Jane realized that time had stopped in the building. Everything from labs to faculty offices to classrooms looked exactly as Jay had left it in 1984. “I can still hear Father Eugene Dehner say, ‘We must stimulate our medulla oblongata,’” said Jay as he toured the building with Dr. Terry Malloy ’95, Chair of the Biology Department. Jay and Jane quickly recognized that today’s students shouldn’t have to research and study in a building that time forgot. Although, it was a quaint place to reminisce, the department was finding it harder and harder to recruit science majors and new professors. During the weekend of their son’s commencement, the Ohmes pledged a gift of $25,000 to name a faculty office, to not only remember the time that Jay and Michael spent in the building, but to also provide new and updated facilities for future Ravens, maybe even future Ohmes grandchildren.
A New Home for Benedictine Science A hundred years after science degrees were first offered at Benedictine, the college is preparing for a new century of science. With a new and expanded Science and Engineering Building, Benedictine College will attract even better and more ambitious students. We will educate leaders in cutting-edge science that can make a difference in the world. We will continue to provide students a faith-based, liberal arts education that will give the world engineers, doctors, scientists, and health care professionals who will serve with integrity, excellence and caring. For more information on how to donate or name a space in the building, contact Rosemary Wilkerson at 913.360.7417 or rosemaryw@benedictine.edu.
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A CARDINAL’S RAVE Alumni Couple Honor Cardinal Dolan’s Visit with Scholarship
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Benedictine College alumni couple has pledged a commitment of $100,000 in support of an endowed scholarship they recently established to honor New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan’s visit to campus for the 2016 commencement address. Matthew R. ’82 and Anne M. Wetta ’82 Dolan established the Ad Quem Ibimus Scholarship (Lord, To Whom Shall We Go? – John 6:68) in the spring of 2016. “When the connection to Cardinal Dolan was made two years ago, we didn’t feel like we could let this opportunity pass,” said Matt Dolan, a distant cousin to Cardinal Dolan. “We had to commemorate his visit and connection to the Dolan name.” Matt and Anne made the trip from their home in Palo Alto, California, to not only visit their Cardinal cousin, but to also celebrate the Benedictine College graduation of their nephew, Michael Ohmes, who received his bachelor’s degree in psychology. The couple’s family ties to Benedictine run deep, as Matt’s brothers, Steve Dolan ’77, Joe Dolan ’79, John Dolan ’82, and his wife, Marilyn Fite Dolan ’88, all graduated from Benedictine College; as did Anne’s siblings,
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Mark Wetta ’72, and his wife, Barbara Bellows Wetta ’73, Nancy Wetta Klapp ’75, Mary Wetta Brown ’76, Ruth Wetta ’77, Dan Wetta ’80, Jane Wetta Ohmes ’84, and her husband, Dr. F. Jay Ohmes ’84; Dennis Wetta ’87, Emmett Wetta ’88, and his wife, Marlo Perryman Wetta ’91. “Benedictine College was the family college,” said Anne Dolan. “I already had five brothers and sisters who went there before me. I never looked anyplace else. I just knew I was going to Benedictine College.”
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Benedictine College was the family college
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— Anne Dolan, ’82
Rosemary Wilkerson, executive director of development, said the gift is unique in that the contribution will be given through a life insurance policy. Wilkerson referred to this mechanism of giving as a planned gift. “Philanthropic support can be provided in a variety of ways. I am extremely delighted to announce this contribution, not only out of
S pirit of G iving
ALUMNI GATHERINGS
EN LEGACY SOCCER GATHERING APRIL 4
Benedictine College Women’s Soccer Head Coach Lincoln Roblee (center) visits with St. Benedict’s College soccer alumni Ken Winkelman ’71 and Joe Laffleur ’69.
Raven Golf Classic June 24
sincere appreciation for the generosity of the Dolans’ gift, but also as an opportunity to promote this method of supporting Benedictine College.” Wilkerson said. Anne said that she and Matt have always wanted to do more for Benedictine College because it has always been a big part of their lives. “Our youngest daughter has cystic fibrosis, so after 25 years of medical bills and saving for a future lung transplant, we weren’t in a position to make an outright cash gift, but life insurance was perfect,” said Anne. “It was something we could afford to do now.” The Dolans’ three children didn’t follow the family legacy to Benedictine. Their son Matthew served in the U.S. Marine Corp., daughter Susan works for a pharmaceutical advertising agency in New York, and youngest daughter Elizabeth lives in Palo Alto where she can be near a cystic fibrosis center. “Anne and I had a truly exceptional visit. We were happy to be there and witness the active spirit of the college,” Matt said. “Having a private audience with Cardinal Dolan was a very humble experience. I was most impressed that he is so personally charismatic and how “in the moment” he was while we visited. It was a grace filled moment that was expressed by Cardinal Dolan’s spirit and faithfulness to all of us. It’s a great day to be a Raven!”
Golf Tournaments
ST. LOUIS GOLF APRIL 29
Benedictine College Assistant Football Coach Fran Johnson ‘05 G ‘07, Schaefer Schuetz ‘19, Payton Meek, and Luke Becker, enjoys a day of golf at the 2016 Raven Golf Classic.
www.benedictine.edu
St. Benedict’s College alumni Ray Weber ’68, Greg Glore ’68, Pete Rubinelli ’65 and Jim Weiland ’65 make friends with a member of the Aberdeen Golf Club Course staff during the shotgun start of the St. Louis Benedictine College Alumni Golf Tournament.
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Ravens Come Home O
ur 2016 Alumni Reunion Weekend was another huge success. Despite the Kansas heat and humidity, the campus was filled with alumni who came home to enjoy each other’s company and retell stories of the past. Also on this weekend, Benedictine College’s Office of Enrollment Management hosts one of two summer SOAR Weekends. These events are when new incoming Ravens come to campus to enroll in their classes and have a miniorientation. Parents are also invited to attend. Many times we get questions from both new Ravens and alumni as to why we host Reunion and SOAR on the same weekend … as the campus does get crowded! But, the truth is, that once you go on your first tour, are offered a spot in the class and then accept … this is your campus. Your home! Do you remember when you were asked the question as an 18-year-old, “Where are you going to college?” And, you replied with pride, “Benedictine College, Atchison, Kansas.” I’m sure the same pride returns to you today. So, in that spirit, we share the campus with our new students during Alumni Reunion Weekend to be examples of what their Benedictine experience is going to be and that the friends they meet on that very same weekend, could be the friends they meet up with at their class reunions. The students will be back before we know it! Fall is a busy time and we hope to make it onto your calendar! On September 18, we’ll be hosting the second Ravens at the Royals event at Kauffman Stadium. Last year, over 200
Ravens gathered for a pregame tailgate and then celebrated as the Royals won their last regular season home game. We hope to do the same this year! We’re also excited for the event because Benedictine College President Stephen D. Minnis ’82, is being honored at the game with the Buck O’Neil Seat for his commitment to Catholic education. Come enjoy the Royals, see friends, and watch President Minnis be honored! See the ad in this edition of the Spirit of Giving for ticket details. Homecoming will be held on the weekend of October 29, and we hope you have plans to attend. Return to campus to enjoy the McDonald Hall parking lot tailgate, watch the football game, stay for Mass, the soccer games, and then celebrate this year’s Hall of Fame inductees. It will be a fantastic way to spend a Saturday. Not in the Atchison or Kansas City area and would like to host an alumni event, you say? Yes! We’re here to help you do that, too! Feel free to call our office, 913.360.7675 or 913.360.7414, and we will share the ways we can assist with this process. We welcome your ideas! Once a Raven, Always a Raven!
Amy Pulk Meara ’99 Director of Alumni Relations
BENEDICTINE COLLEGE SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 VS. THE CHICAGO WHITE SOX @ 1:15 P.M.
Fall cocktails and fashion show fundraiser to support the Raven Cheer program.
Saturday, October 1, 2016 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sponsored By
O’Malley Beverage, Inc., 360 Vodka and Raven Liquor Please contact Rosemary Wilkerson at 913.360.7417 or rosemaryw@benedictine.edu to reserve seats.
my.benedictine.edu/RavensRoyals2016
Poohthe Alumna’s gift of hope to children who are sick … like she was
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his past year saw alumna Jacquelyn Hernandez ’06, begin a tradition that is very close to her heart. A 27 year survivor of childhood cancer, Hernandez has always felt an affinity for her local children’s hospital. She and her family have made donations of books, toys, and stuffed animals many times throughout the years, but this year, Hernandez’s donation took on a more personal tone. To celebrate her 27 years of being cancer-free, Hernandez donated 27 Winnie the Pooh stuffed animals and gave them to pediatric oncology patients currently undergoing long stints in the hospital. Hernandez included a note that said: “Twenty seven years ago, I was a kid just like you. The hospital can be a scary place. However, one day, I was given a Winnie the Pooh similar to this one. Winnie helped me be brave and no longer afraid. In the words of Christopher Robin, ‘you are braver than you believe.’ Be brave and strong! I’ll be thinking of you.” As small as a stuffed animal, this personal mission was driven by such love that 27 children and families felt the impact in an inspiring way. The Rule of St. Benedict opens with the line, “Listen with the ear of the heart.” Hernandez has carried this exhortation with her as a guiding principle for decisions both big and small throughout her life. A Benedictine oblate, former Fellowship of Catholic University Students missionary, and an active member of her parish community, Hernandez has devoted her life to glorifying God through service, saying that, “there is always something more you can do outside of your job. Do small things with great love. That is humility, and that is a truly Benedictine lifestyle.” Hernandez believes that loving relationships are a key aspect of a meaningful Christian life, and works to establish these genuine relationships with everyone from co-workers to pediatric cancer patients to youth group teens. Hernandez credits Benedictine College with teaching her the value of strong friendships through the community aspect of campus life. During her time as a student at Benedictine College, Hernandez was a Business major, where she acquired skills and practical knowledge to be successful
in a corporate environment while surrounded by a solid moral Catholic community. This focus on community and commitment to Catholic values are the aspects of Benedictine College that drive Hernandez to stay involved as an alumna today. When asked what was most exciting about the growth and changes occurring on campus, Hernandez said that projects that emphasize the Catholic pillar of the institution are the most inspiring to her, and was extremely pleased by Mary’s Grotto and the impact it had on campus spirituality. As the college continued to grow and expand, Hernandez felt called to support Benedictine College’s mission of educating men and women of faith and scholarship out of a personal belief that “young people are the future of the Church.” Out of a desire to personally support this mission in a small but powerful way, Hernandez joined President Minnis’ Memorare Army. Many small prayers and sacrifices by Hernandez and others like her brought about the completion of the Ferrell Academic Center, and Hernandez hopes to see a similar outcome for the Westerman Hall renovation. In this way, Jacqueline Hernandez joins the ranks of alumni and friends whose small acts of great love help to make Benedictine College one of the great Catholic colleges of America.
Class Notes March 16 through June 1, 2016 Class notes are condensed. Please refer to http://my.benedictine.edu for full stories, photographs and in memory. Catherine Belden ’63, Oklahoma City, Okla., was appointed in March 2016 as a member of the board of directors at St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee, Okla. She is the chair of The Westerman Foundation and serves St. Gregory’s as a member of the Strategic Planning Vision Leadership Team. Catherine is an emeritus director of the board of directors at Benedictine College. S. Carol Ann (Mary Carol) Petersen, OSB ’66, Atchison, Kan., in March 2016 became the new Director of the Sophia Spirituality Center at Mount St. Scholastica. Previously, she was the Director of the Keeler Women’s Center in Kansas City, Kan., since its inception in 2003. S. Carol Ann also served 28 years as a teacher and principal in Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri; followed by nine years as an associate superintendent of schools. Donn Fendler ’69 Bootstrapper, Clarksville, Tenn., and Newport, Maine, is the author of Lost on a Mountain in Maine, which tells his story of spending nearly two weeks lost on Mount Katahdin in July 1939. Fendler served in the U.S. Navy in WWII as a Sea Bee, and following his studies at St. Benedict’s College, Donn returned to serve his country, and retired after 30 years as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army. He gives talks at schools, libraries, for Scout troops and others about his survival experience on the mountain. Donn and his wife, Mary Rose Fendler, had three daughters and one son. Mary Rose passed away in January 2009. The Honorable Janet Hormberg ’77, Belleville, Ill., in March 2016, was chosen as an associate judge in the 20th Judicial Circuit. Previously, she was the assistant state’s attorney and head of child support enforcement at the state’s attorney’s office of St. Clair County. Cayetana Maristela ’85, Saint Joseph, Mo., has been an English Language Learners teacher at Center School District in Kansas City, Mo., since 2004. Cayetana, along with six other teachers at Center School District, is a Fund
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for Teachers 2016 Fellow. The teachers traveled to Escuela Juan Sisay in Xela, Guatemala for an 18-day language immersion experience in June 2016. Trevor S. Miller ’91, and his wife, Amy Hankins Miller ’91, moved in May 2016 to Charlotte, N.C., where he is employed by Patriot Underwriting, Inc., and is their regional vice president of the southeast region. Trevor is responsible for the day-to-day operations on all business for the southeast region: Marketing, Underwriting, Claims, and inner office relations and communications. Amy will be teaching in the Charlotte area this fall. They are the parents of three children, Korbin graduated from high school in May 2016 and will be attending the University of Arizona; Kelsey will be a junior this fall at Richmond the American International University in London, United Kingdom; and Zach is completing his under graduate degree at Life University in Marietta, Ga. Gabriel Saucedo ’95, is the head baseball coach at El Paso Community College in Texas. Plus, he is in his final semester of studies at Loyola University New Orleans for a master’s degree in religious education. Gabriel and his wife, Claudia Guzman Saucedo, have been married for 17 years and are the parents of six children, Anaiz Hope, Mia Amorette, Gabriel II, Bianca Faith, Olivia Grace, and Rafael. In June 2016, the family, plus their two dogs Charity and Trinity, moved to a new home in El Paso. Angela Wilson Orangifard ’96, Prairie Village, Kan., works remotely from home as a Senior Project Manager for ICON Clinical Research, which is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. Angela and her husband, Hossein Orangifard, are the owners of H & A Orangi Remodeling, LLC, and they are the parents of two children, Aiden and Zahra. Amy McGuire Blanchard ’97, Grinnell, Iowa, was selected the new program manager for The Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation (GPCF). Amy joined the foundation April 1, 2016, and is in charge of community relations and marketing, and will serve as a liaison between GPCF and its partner programs, JMP Early Childhood Iowa Area and Grinnell-Newburg Educational Excellence. The Blanchard family moved to Grinnell in 2009, when Jeff Blanchard, Ph.D. ’98, joined the mathematics faculty at Grinnell College. Prior to this move, they lived throughout the United States and abroad when Jeff was an officer in the Army and previous academic positions. Amy and Jeff are the parents of four children, Mary, Bridget, Beaux, and Aaron.
S pirit of G iving
Jason Suelter ’97, owner of Vector Structural Design of Lincoln, Neb., was a guest speaker at Benedictine College on April 25, 2016. He spoke to the audience about “Engineering the Future: The Details to Success.” Jason earned his master’s degree from the University of NebraskaLincoln. William Patterson ’98, Atchison, Kan., an English teacher at Lawrence High School is the recipient of the Wolfe Teaching Excellence Award given by the Kansas University School of Education. He was nominated for the award by Emily Roberts, a former student, now a KU graduate. Among the qualifications the educator had to have encouraged and positively influenced his students to dream, aspire, and persevere. As the winning teacher, Bill received a cash award, as did the high school. (Bill Patterson and former student, Emily Roberts - photo courtesy of KU School of Education.) Ryan Brown, MBA, PHR ’99, Omaha, Neb., in November 2015, joined Nebraska Furniture Mart as the Training and Organizational Development Director. Ryan and his wife, Colleen, are the parents of two children, Molly Rose and Zachary Edward Brown. Nicole Proulx Aiken ’00, Lawrence, Kan., became the city attorney for Merriam, Kansas, on May 24, 2016. Prior to this appointment, she was an attorney for the Kansas Department of Commerce and the League of Kansas Municipalities. Nicole also clerked for the Kansas Supreme Court. She holds a juris doctorate degree from the University of Kansas - School of Law. Nicole is married to Edwin Aiken and has two young daughters. Br. Brandon R. Berg, OFMCap. ’02, Denver, Colo., professed Solemn Vows with the Capuchin Franciscans at the Basilica Cathedral of the Plains in Victoria, Kan., on March 30, 2016. This fall, Br. Brandon will enter his second year of Theology at the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas. In late May 2016, he stopped by the Benedictine College campus while in the area to visit his parents, Robert Berg of Atchison, and Barbara Berg of Holton, Kan. (Photo shows Most Reverend Gustavo Garcia-Siller, M.Sp.S., Archbishop of San Antonio, standing with Br. Brandon R. Berg.)
www.benedictine.edu
Jason Heppler ’04, Walton, Kan., was featured in the May 21, 2016, edition of The Newton Kansan, regarding his giving back to the community as a school resource officer at Chisholm and Sante Fe schools, and giving of his time and talent as a volunteer soccer coach for the St. Mary’s Catholic School team for the past four years. Jason is a nine-year veteran of the Newton Police Department, and also serves as their IT specialist. He and his wife, Adrienne Heppler, have resided in the Newton area since 2008. Olivia Michelle, born to Megan Harmon Morris ’05, and her husband, Jeff D. Morris, March 19, 2016. She joins older siblings, Gianna and Isaiah, at the family home in Topeka, Kan. Catherine Therese Faustina, born to Matt Perkins, J.D. ’06, and his wife, Julie Reiff Perkins ’06, Feb. 1, 2016. The family resides in Roseville, Calif. Jonas James, born to Luke Reetz ’06, and his wife, Megan Reetz, May 11, 2016. He joins older siblings, Hailey, 6; Casey, 4; and Owen, 2, at their new family home in Indianapolis, Ind. Luke recently accepted a new position to be the Vice President of Acquisitions for Envision New York, a commercial real estate firm based out of Manhattan, N.Y. Vince Brennan ’08, St. Louis, Mo., was promoted in April 2016 to managing editor of the St. Louis Business Journal. He joined the company in November 2011 as section editor and moved up to print editor in September 2013. Vince previously was employed as an editor at Networx Communication Corporation in Kansas City, Mo., and was a reporter and weekend editor for the Kirksville Daily Express in Kirksville, Mo. Anthony Patrick, born to Amanda Stack Buttig ’08, and her husband, Daniel Buttig, May 12, 2016. He joins older siblings, Felicity Chiara and Joseph Daniel, at the family home in Kansas City, Mo. Calvin James, born to Elaina Schaefer Sedlacek ’08, and her husband, Paul Sedlacek, Jan. 26, 2016. The family resides in Lawrence, Kan. Graham Carter, born to Megan Suther Crowley ’09, and Jarod Crowley, May 10, 2016. The family resides in Atchison. Jarod is an Athletic Trainer at Benedictine College, and Megan is a stay-at-home mom. Bennett Leopold, born to Matthew Edmonds ’10 and Jaclyn Hill Edmonds ’10, July 12, 2015. He joins older brother, Aldric, at the family home near Topeka, Kan. Eva Josephine, born to Anne Heuertz Baumert ’12, and her husband, Brett Baumert, July 16, 2015. The family resides
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Class Notes Continued in Olathe, Kan., where Anne is a stay at home mom, and Brett is employed as a software engineer at Garmin. Emilee Hernandez Klebba ’12, Mission, Kan., graduated with a master’s degree in school leadership from Benedictine College in December 2015. She and her husband, Joe Klebba, welcomed their first baby, Henry Michael, born April 19, 2016. Emilee is employed as a special education teacher at Mahaffie Elementary (Olathe Public Schools), and Joe is employed as a correspondent banking officer at Commerce Bank. Gemma Rose, born to David Walter ’13, and his wife, Kirstie Alexander Walter ’13, May 13, 2016. She was baptized May 21, at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kan. David graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City with a Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Guidance, May 12, 2016. Alexander Orel ’14, Topeka, Kan., is the Manager of Government Relations at Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. His responsibilities include state and federal legislative advocacy and grassroots initiatives. Alex previously served as the legislative liaison for the office of Kansas Governor Sam Brownback.
Jackie Ziesel Fore ’15, St. Joseph, Mo., has signed with the Kansas City Majestics, Lady Eagles of the Women’s Blue Chip Basketball League. The Lady Eagles inaugural first season began in May 2016. Jackie’s four-year collegiate career at Benedictine College included being a member of the women’s basketball team, and she scored 1,060 points for the Ravens while playing in 129 games. Also during her basketball career the Ravens competed twice in the NAIA Division I National Championship Tournament. Jackie works at Sports Tech Medical Network in St. Joseph, Mo. She is the wife of Cameron Fore ’13, and is the daughter of Mike Ziesel ’76, and Patty Kreifels Ziesel ’76. Cecilia Hoopes ’15, wed Ryan Pigg ’15, May 27, 2016, at St. Benedict Parish in Atchison, Kan. Ryan is working on his master’s in architecture at the University of Colorado, and Cecilia is the managing editor of the CatholicMatch Institute. The couple resides in Denver, Colo. Emily Westover ’15, Atchison, Kan., is a kindergarten teacher at the Atchison Elementary School, as well as a sales associate for American Girl. Her future plans are to continue teaching at the school for the 2016-17 year. Emily previously resided in Centennial, Colo.
FAMILY DIRECTED MEMORIALS: Memorials for the following may be sent to Benedictine College, Attn: James Kew, Office of Advancement, 1020 North Second Street, Atchison, KS 66002. James P. Kelley III ’69, Wichita, Kan., passed away April 4, 2016. He is survived by three children, and his father, James P. Kelley Jr. The family has directed memorials to the Benedictine College Scholarship Fund.
Simple
Safe
Effective
.
A Benedictine College Charitable Gift Annuity
SIMPLE: You can transfer money to a charitable gift annuity and receive income for life.
Sample Rates for a $10,000 Single Life Annuity 65
AGE
70
75
80
85
SAFE: Lifetime payments are backed by the assets of
ANNUITY RATE
4.70%
5.10%
5.80%
6.80%
7.80%
Benedictine College and are considered a general obligation.
YOUR CHARITABLE DEDUCTION*
$3,231
$3,901
$4,426
$4,908
$5,582
YOUR ANNUAL PAYMENT FOR LIFE
$470
$510
$580
$680
$780
EFFECTIVE: Enjoy very attractive rates. Lifetime payments
can be customized to your needs. Enjoy substantial capital gains saving if you use a highly-appreciated asset. Invest in the mission of Benedictine College!
This example is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended for as legal or tax advice. Consult your personal tax advisor prior to making any decisions. *Deduction will vary based on IRS discount rate. Rate used is 2%.
For an illustration or for information on this powerful gift option at Benedictine College contact Tim Andrews, ’88, MPA, CAP® at (913) 360-7363 or tandrews@benedictine.edu 18
S pirit of G iving
A Piece of ake—
and a Future
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So many gestures convinced the McKibbens to be Raven Frequent Flyers …
n 1992 a young man from Atchison and a graduate from Maur Hill Mount Academy had filled out all the paperwork and was enrolled to attend Kansas State University in August. But something, maybe it was the life-long learning he had experienced in Catholic grade school and high school, made him call and tour Benedictine College to see if it was a better fit. He knew on his way to the appointment with the financial aid office that the cost would be too much for him and his family. Today, Brandon McKibben ’96, G ’99, looks back to “the moment” that changed his life and is so thankful for those alumni and friends of Benedictine who donated to the annual fund and made it possible for him to be a student at Benedictine. Their generosity enabled Brandon to get his degree in accounting and go on to become the Vice-President and CFO of several successful companies and open a local business with his wife in Atchison. He smiles and shares, “my career, my family, who I am today, was shaped by getting my undergraduate degree and my EMBA at Benedictine. I learned from some of the best professors. And these professors not only challenged me academically, they helped shape me spiritually into the husband and father I am today.” “I will always appreciate professors like Fr. Bertrand LaNoue OSB and Dr. Coronado in Economics and my Latin professor, Dr. Wittman,” he said. “I remember one night several of us were studying on the 3rd floor of Bishop Fink Hall. Dr. Wittman was working in his office and asked if I would help him move some
furniture. I helped him move a small cabinet and to pay me back he opens his desk drawer and pulls out a cheesecake! We sat there and ate a piece of cheesecake. I have many great memories of Benedictine.” Brandon and his wife Christy started giving monthly to the annual fund long before it became the Raven Frequent Flyer program. They have been contributing monthly for over 10 years for several reasons: • they live in this community, are raising two daughters, and own an Atchison business, Tacyn’s, so they know how important it is to support organizations in the community • they are proud that Benedictine is a Catholic college serving students through community, faith, and scholarship • now they have the ability to help make it possible for students just like Brandon to attend Benedictine • it is simple to give monthly – you can have it direct debited from your bank or give monthly on your credit card “It brings a tear to my eye when I see the changes at Benedictine,” he said. “The campus continues to grow, more students come to Atchison — I feel like I see the value of my diploma increase every year!” You can join Brandon and Christy and become a Raven Frequent Flyer today at www.benedictine.edu/ ravenfrequentflyer. To become a member all you have to do is make a monthly gift to the annual fund by credit card or electronic fund transfer.
Are you interested in making a monthly gift to Benedictine? You will receive a luggage tag and passport for joining. Each year you renew your monthly gift, you will receive a new passport stamp! my.benedictine.edu/ravenfrequentflyer
NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID KCMO 6412 BENEDICTINE COLLEGE OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT 1020 North Second Street Atchison, KS 66002 913-360-7414 www.benedictine.edu/giving
f our ents, o k thin r comm u o y o you as to d d t n a e Wh ving? S tory ide .edu. f Gi ns and s nedictine o t i Spir uggestio ent@be s ncem a v d bca
WON!!
THANK YOU! You voted, you made it happen. This past year over 3,100 generous donors from across the country and all over the world supported the annual fund and raised over $1,500,000!
Thank you for making it a great year! Your support is vital in helping Benedictine continue to grow in community, faith, and scholarship.
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C A M P A I G N