BSUCalendar April 16, 1999
Bagley-BSU Alumni Reception, 5-6:30 p.m., (Site to be determined) April 23-24
1999, BSU Alumni Board Meeting, Bemidji, MN May 1, 1999
BSU Alumni Choir Concert, 7:30 -9 p.m., First Baptist Church, St. Paul, Concert to Honor Retired Music Professor, Dr. Paul Brandvik, Sarah Aamot-Lundin, Conductor. May 1, 1999
Twin Cities-BSU Alumni Reception, 9-11:00 p.m., The Saint Paul Hotel May 2, 1999
BSU Green & White Banquet, evening, Beaux Arts Ballroom; BSU Campus May 13-14, 1999
1949 Class Reunion, Bemidji State University May 14, 1999
BSU Commencement May 15, 1999
Dan Kraus Memorial Golf Tournament May 21, 1999
5 - 6:30 p.m., Fosston-BSU Alumni Reception, site to be determined June 18, 1999
Pabst/Skaar Memorial Golf Tournament, Bemidji Town and Country Club August 6, 1999
Lady Beaver Golf Tournament, Bemidji Town and Country Club
Vol. 14, No. 3, Spring 1999
A Publication for Alumni & Friends of Bemidji State University
BSUHorizons
Bright Lights Caught In Bright Lights
Bemidji State University
BSUHorizons
Bemidji State University Alumni Association 1500 Birchmont Drive NE, #DPH Bemidji, MN 56601-2699 218-755-3989 1-877-BSU-ALUM alumni@vax1.bemidji.msus.edu http://info.bemidji.msus.edu/alumni
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Bemidji, MN 56601-2699 PERMIT NO. 9
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It is a long way from Bangsberg Hall to Broadway, but Lori Lundquist completed the trek in January when Fosse opened at the Broadhurst Theatre. And if early performances are any indication, Lundquist will have the opportunity to become familiar with bright lights as the show is playing to standingroom-only crowds and is being discussed as an early favorite for the Tony Award as best musical. Lundquist, who graduated from Bemidji State in 1984 with a degree in music, is stage manager for Fosse, which is a song and dance review of the career of showman Bob Fosse. In 1973 Fosse became the first director to win the Oscar (film version of Cabaret), Tony (Broadway musical Pippin), and Emmy (television special “Liza with a Z”) awards in the same year. The winner of nine Tony Awards, Fosse’s credits include The Pajama Game, Sweet Charity, Chicago, Damn Yankees, and How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying. “As far as working on a smash hit, maybe I’ve been too busy to think about it,” said Lundquist. “I worked on a lot of shows in the past that were supposed to move to larger theaters and bigger contracts but never did, so I really don’t take things for granted in this business.” As a stage manager, Lundquist started working with Fosse when it was rehearsed in Toronto and premiered at the Ford Centre for the Performing Arts. The pre-New York City tour featured engagements in Boston and Los Angeles. “Before the show opens, the stage manager assists the director during rehearsals and makes sure that everything gets passed on to the designers, technical staff, or other appropriate people,” Lundquist explained. “During performances, the stage manager maintains the artistic and technical visions that the directors and designers have for the show.
Lori Lundquist
“One stage manager will ‘run the deck,’ which means they keep an eye on the cast and crew to make sure everyone is doing their jobs and are safe. Another stage manager ‘calls the show,’ which involves giving the go ahead for cues, moves, changes and other things.” Lundquist’s trip to Broadway did not come by happenstance. She turned her degree in music and love for the theater into a career track that is not easy for anyone. “When I graduated, I substitute taught for a few months, but soon knew I didn’t have that special temperament a teacher needs,” Lundquist said. “So I started doing a couple of technical theater internships in everything from building sets and hanging lights to running shows. I was offered a five-month internship in New York City, kept getting offered jobs, and I’m still here after 13 years.”
Along the way she worked on many productions in many locations: the musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers in North Carolina, the new play Dream of the Red Spider for the American Repertory Theatre in Boston, the opera Lucia di Lammermore in Memphis, and Angel Street in Houston. She has worked with such artists as Blythe Danner, Edward Hermann, Laura Linney, Tony Goldwyn, and Elizabeth Ashley as well as director and choreographer Rob Marshall. She also spent two seasons with the New York City Opera and worked on three productions for the Minnesota Opera. “My musical background is helpful, especially when working in opera where a stage manager is almost always required to read
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music,” Lundquist commented. “I feel my musical timing helps me call a better show, whether it is a musical or straight play. “I call two-thirds of Fosse from a score instead of a script since it is one musical number after another, often with no lyrics and no book scenes.” Lundquist says that she enjoys calling shows more than working the deck even though there is greater pressure and greater blame when something goes wrong. “With the musical way this show is called, I sometimes feel more like a member of the orchestra or a dancer on stage,” she admitted. “This is what I like the best. It allows me to feel that I’m an integral and artistic part of the show.” It’s a way to enjoy the bright lights, even from the dark confines of the back stage.
s far as working on a smash hit, maybe I’ve been too busy to think about it. I worked on a lot of shows in the past that were supposed to move to larger theaters and bigger contracts but never did, so I really don’t take things for granted in this business.” Lori Lundquist
Horizons Page 2
Donations
Donations Upgrade
CIS Capabilities
COBOL, the RPG programming language, Visible Analyst Workbench, Lotus Notes, and a suite of Oracle applications.” The impetus for the dedicated lab was given a major boost by Federated Insurance, who donated 45 of the Pentium-based personal computers to BSU a year ago. In addition to the desktop units, the company had previously contributed $4,000 for a computer projector to assist in the delivery of instruction. The gifts brought the department up to Faculty member Barbara Schuldt and BSU students check out the IBM AS/400 and a desktop work date, but not quite station that are being set up as lab dedicated for CIS and business use in Decker Hall. IBM donated the up to speed in where AS/400 and software for the lab while Federated Insurance of Owatonna donated 45 Pentium-based personal computers to network with the system. it needed to go in the classroom. The IBM gift covered the retudents have access to hands-on experiences with applications maining ground with an AS/400 mini computer, operating sysand computers in a room close to the instructors, not on the tem, and software valued at More than 450,000 of other end of campus. We can take theory and actually show the $220,000. the AS/400s have shipped since students the applications, and then have them work on the its introduction; an estimated 16 million people log on to AS/400 application to reinforce the concepts in our classes.” Barbara Schuldt systems every day; and more than 90 percent of the Fortune Equipment donations from two on upper-level courses. The pre- 100 companies have an AS/400. The Partners in Education sources have greatly enhanced the vious lab had older machines p r ogram was initiated by learning opportunities for students tied to a Novell operating sysIBM to encourage interaction in the fast-growing computer tem. Now the room will feature between the computer indusinformation systems major. Pentium-based machines opertry, businesses and higher In December, IBM announced ating from a state-of-the-art education. Each funded proa donation through their Part- IBM AS/400, the world’s most g r a m i n c l u d e s a b u s i n ess ners in Education program that popular minicomputer for busipartner, who agrees to work allowed the BSU Business ness applications. Department to upgrade the com“Students have access to with the school and IBM. Anderson Fabrics of Blackduck puters and software used within hands-on experiences with apwill serve as the business it curriculum. Coupled with an plications and computers in a partner for BSU and will earlier gift of computers by Fed- room close to the instructors, not review the computer informaerated Insurance in Owatonna, on the other end of campus,” tion system’s curriculum to the donations enabled the de- said Barbara Schuldt, a Business ensure that the AS/400 has partment to create a lab with Department faculty member been incorporated into classwell over $250,000 in equip- who helped secure the IBM doroom instruction within the ment and software dedicated for nation. “We can take theory and next 12 months. the department’s own use. actually show the students the As part of the program, The equipment is being put applications, and then have them Bemidji State will establish an together in a networked com- work on the application to reinAS/400 users’ group in the area puter environment in Decker force the concepts in our classes. to encourage interaction beHall where students can work “This also gives us a single tween tribal governments, busiplace where we can run the soft-
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ware essential to our program. This would include Micro focus
nesses, state agencies, federal offices, and others who have the system in their facilities. Tentative plans call for several workshops and training sessions for the users’ group. “Establishing the computer lab with the AS/400 and Pentium machines will have immediate benefits to BSU and region,” said Dr. Jim Bensen, BSU president. “The computer information systems major will have access to a powerful, modern machine while students will be trained on up-to-date software. Bemidji State graduates will be able to step directly into the work force with minimal technical adjustments. The business community will have a resource for capable employees as well as for continued training in the field.”
IN MEMORIAM Elsie Helen Cyr (’92) of Northwest Bay First Nation, Ontario Agnes Johnson (’22) of Redondo Beach, CA Gladys Stapleton (’46) of Bemidji Eleanor Mary Judge (’34) of Hastings Elizabeth Rybak (’55) of Fergus Falls Gladys Stapleton (’46) of St. Louis Park Vera Cole (’65) of Williams Doyle Aultman (’67) of Bemidji Mary Agnes Dostal (’49) of Badger John Yourd of Bemidji, former faculty member
Bemidji State University
BSUHorizons Vol. 14, No. 3, Spring 1999 Produced by the News and Publications Office and the Alumni Office at Bemidji State University, HORIZONS is published quarterly and distributed without charge to BSU alumni, students, faculty, staff and other friends of the University. BSU is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Al Nohner Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . Kathy Berglund Photographer . . . . . . . . . . . John Swartz President . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Jim Bensen Alumni Director . . . . . . . . . Sue Kringen Contributing Writer . . . . . . . . Jody Grau Editorial Assistance . . . . . Peggy Nohner Editorial Board: Dr. Jim Bensen, BSU president; Dr. David Tiffany, vice president for University advancement; Al Nohner, director of news services and publications; Sue Kringen, director of alumni relations.
Horizons Page 3
Journeys in
I
Vietnam
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have developed a relationship with some street children, who shine shoes to survive. They are from remote villages and come to Hanoi to make money for their families. They work seven days a week, and if they are lucky will earn about 70 cents in U.S. money per day.” Riki Scheela
Drs. Bill Scheela of the Business Department (left) and Riki Scheela of the Nursing Department are spending their yearlong sabbaticals working with diverse populations in Vietnam.
For Bill and Riki Scheela, their sabbatical assignments in Vietnam appear to fall on opposite ends of the social spectrum. A professor of business at BSU, Bill spends time in the classroom, teaching MBA courses in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City for the only Western-style business school in the country. It is his fourth trip to work and conduct research at the National Economics University (NEU). Riki, on the other hand, explores the streets and cities from her perspective as a health care professional. A member of the Bemidji State nursing faculty, she is discovering the issues of child and sexual abuse are as difficult to address in Vietnam as anywhere. While the working environ-
ments for this husband and wife are quite different, what they are trying to accomplish is the same — helping people understand how a struggling country can overcome difficulties to become a vital part of the 21st century. Bill’s sabbatical includes team teaching with Vietnamese faculty, writing studies of Vietnamese business organizations, and conducting research seminars for the Vietnamese faculty. In addition to the Vietnamese, he has students from Australia, Hong Kong, and Malaysia, all of whom are middle managers or involved in international joint ventures in the country. He is also working with his faculty colleagues at the business school to study entrepreneurship
in Vietnam that encompasses new venture capital, women entrepreneurs, and training needs. Riki embarked on her sabbatical to conduct sexual abuse research as well as to learn about health and nursing in Vietnam. She has come to understand many things during this visit, her second to the country, but conducting her research has been impossible. “If we were staying longer, I would be able to do the research, but it takes a long time to build trust and connections, especially is such a sensitive area,” she explained. “Child trafficking and child prostitution are now starting to be addressed on the government level.” She has had the opportunity to
work with PLAN International, a non-governmental organization, in their Street Children Project. She has conducted basic counseling skill training, worked with staff on specific difficult cases, and developed a health sexuality curriculum for the street children. “I have developed a relationship with some street children, who shine shoes to survive,” Riki said. “They are from remote villages and come to Hanoi to make money for their families. They work seven days a week, and if they are lucky will earn about 70 cents in U.S. money per day. “They forego warm clothing, adequate shelter and food so they can bring more money home to their families. One of the boys is 16 years old, but looks about eight or nine due to malnutrition. It is heartbreaking to witness.” Although not heartbreaking, Bill has encountered difficulties as well. “Because the NEU business school is both a start-up and a totally new concept in Vietnam, things are normally chaotic on a
daily basis,” Bill said. “There’s very little long-range strategizing, limited resources, and what little planning does occur changes frequently. “So one has to adapt. If you don’t, you become ineffective very quickly.” The government is looking to stabilize the educational environment for its 78 million people, the majority of whom are under the age of 25. While literacy rates are a concern, 91 percent of the population is able to read at the thirdgrade level, a figure which is high for a developing country. “The Vietnamese have a very high respect for education,” Bill noted. “And they want to increase accessibility to higher education. Currently their universities are relatively inefficient and they want to Westernize both their content and pedagogy. “Clearly they want to do the right thing. It will be a long and challenging process, but I’m betting with their hard-work ethic and high respect for education, they will succeed.”
work,” said Sylvester. He and his wife, Sue, have two grown children … John H. Stevens (’65), executive director of the Texas Business and Education Coalition, was appointed this fall to the National Assessment Governing Board. The National Assessment Governing Board is a group that provides direction and advice on establishing challenging assessments of our elementary and secondary students. In his current position, Stevens is responsible for developing and implementing public school reform initiatives that influence the direction of state education policy by strengthening businesseducation partnerships and by supporting community-based school improvement programs. He is the son of Edna Stevens (’42) of Starbuck and John Stevens of Florida … Hugh Bishop (’68) was recently hired to fill the new position of senior writer with Lake Superior Magazine. Formerly editor of the Lake County NewsChronicle in Two Harbors, editor/ associate publisher with Advanstar Hugh Bishop Publications in Duluth and a public relations writer at BSU and Erie Mining Company, he most recently served as managing editor of Lake Superior Magazine. The magazine is part of the family-owned
publishing company of Lake Superior Port Cities Inc., which also publishes The Lake Superior Magazine Travel Guide, maps, calendars and many book titles dealing with Lake Superior regional topics … Rodney Sycks (’60) of Hinckley is writing high school sports stories for the Hinckley News … Grace (Wilson) Olson (‘60) of Park Rapids runs her own area resort and is a substitute teacher at the Park Rapids Middle School. She’s active in the North Country Museum of Arts and Hubbard County Historical Society … Joe Matanich (’63) filed this fall as a candidate for reelection to the Mountain Iron City Council. He retired in 1997 after 34 years of teaching and coaching. He and his wife, Elaine, have a son and a daughter … Dorothy Billberg (’67) has received
Where We Are ... What We’re Doing
ALL CITIES ARE LOCATED IN MINNESOTA UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.
1940s Verna Eichstadt (’45) is general manager of a new secondhand and collectible shop in Bemidji, Paul Bunyan Daily Treasures, 824 Washingon Ave. … Verna C. Barr Haines (’42) lives in Rockford, IL, and spends part of each year in Connecticut and Arizona with her family … Glenn Hymer (’49) moved to Fremont, MI, from California and was looking forward to a snowy winter so he could use his new snowshoes. In the spring he plans to learn to sail the tall ship, the Madeline … Mary Ellen (Hanson) McFarland (’41) of St. Paul and her husband, Keith McFarland, both received the University of Minnesota Outstanding Achievement Awards in 1998 and 1977.
1950s Dick Hess (’50) writes a column called The Pickle Patch for the Wadena Pioneer Journal … Duane Ditty (’58) of Fountain Valley, CA, retired in June, 1997, having taught for 37 years in Santa Ana, CA, and two years prior to that in Hibbing … Rol Bromberg (’55) and Ilene Bromberg (’55) live in Cloquet where Rol was
recently honored by having the athletic complex at Cloquet High School named after him. He taught and coached there for 33 years and retired in 1991 … Judith Melby Jones (’59) of Athens, GA, organized a singing group, The Classic Singers, in January, 1996. The group has performed seven public concerts in one and a half years … Ben Trochlil (’55) and Joan Trochlil (’52) are retired and live in Minnetonka.
1960s Bill Lawrence (’62), enrolled member of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians and publisher of the Bemidji-based weekly newspaper Native American Press/Ojibwe News, has been asked to submit an essay for a book entitled “Beyond Victimization” to be published later this Bill Lawrence
year. The book constitutes the report of the national Citizens’ Initiative on Race and Ethnicity. Lawrence is the only Minnesotan and the only Native American who has been asked to contribute to the book which will contain contributions from approximately 20 distinguished writers and thinkers on race issues in America … Gayle Quistgard (’65), executive director of the Bemidji Visitors and Convention Bureau, was selected to receive the President’s Award from the Minnesota Heartland Tourism Association. She has worked in her current position since 1989. MHTA is a private sector tourism promotion organization, in partnership with the Minnesota Office of Tourism to promote tourism in northcentral and western Minnesota … Carol Quinn Close (’68), who grew up in the Wykoff area, has written a book, Last Yesterday, about her girlhood home. She returned to Wykoff in December for a book signing … Jim Sylvester (’64), principal of Lincoln Elementary School in Little Falls, is retiring from his 35-year career in education, most of which he spent in Little Falls district schools. He began by teaching sixth grade at Lindbergh Elementary. In 1972, he was given the position of principal of Dr. Knight Elementary in Randall. After filling that post for five years, Sylvester accepted, in 1977, the Lincoln Elementary position from which he retired at the end of 1998. “I think the greatest change that I’ve witnessed is the great number of programs and curriculum the elementary school is supposed to teach in order to prepare students for the world of
Dorothy Billberg (Continued on page 4)
Horizons Page 4
Grants
Grants Support Summer
Math and Science Institutes
Tim Somes of Fargo, ND, takes the controls of a space shuttle mock-up at the Johnson Space Center. Somes and other members of the 1998 Science Institute toured the NASA facility this past winter as a follow-up activity to the summer program.
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innesota is ahead of a lot of states in bringing science education into the elementary school. A lot of states focus solely on math and reading in kindergarten and first grade without applying them beyond those processes. We now have some kindergarten and first-grade teachers who use science as a way of teaching math and reading.” Dr. John Truedson
Bemidji State University has received two grants that will fund summer courses designed to enhance the abilities of elementary and middle school teachers in the areas of mathematics and science. Provided through the Eisenhower Professional Development Program, one $43,000 grant will support the Summer Science Institute for the fourth year while the other award, also for $43,000, will subsidize the second year of the Summer Mathematics Institute. “Undergraduate education does not prepare teachers for all aspects of science teaching, like
physics and chemistry,” said Dr. John Truedson, assistant professor of physics who is directing the Summer Science Institute. “The context of the program is how to apply this knowledge to the classroom in an inquiry-based format instead of just using a textbook.” The Summer Science Institute will offer courses to provide training in experimental laboratory science courses and techniques in laboratory science. In addition to gaining an indepth learning experience on subject matter central to their teaching assignments, the educators will also be involved in activities that emphasize problem solving and critical thinking skills. “Minnesota is ahead of a lot of states in bringing science education into the elementary school,” Truedson added. “A lot of states focus solely on math and reading in kindergarten and first grade without applying them beyond those processes. We now have some kindergarten and first-grade teachers who use science as a way of teaching math and reading.” Impetus to start the Summer Mathematics Institute came from the changing high school standards within Minnesota, which has requirements reaching back into the elementary grades. “The new graduation standards actually affect the amount of mathematics being taught throughout all grade levels,” ex-
plained Dr. Glen Richgels, BSU faculty member who is coordinating the math institute. “Prior to the standards, elementary school was where you learned addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions and decimals. “There are standards that students are supposed to attain in grades 3, 5, 8 and 12. The thirdgrade now has a certain amount of geometry while the fifth-grade includes geometry, probability, and some data investigations or basics statistics.” The University conducted a survey two years ago to assess the understanding of elementary teachers in these areas. It showed that teachers did fairly well on geometry, but had problems with statistics and probability. The classes being offered will explore those concepts. They will also outline practices that enhance learning and motivation while modeling instructional units that are consistent with Minnesota’s performance and assessment formats. Like the science program, the experience in mathematics is hands-on, where participants learn not only the topic but also how to apply the material in the classroom setting. Both institutes will run for three weeks this summer with follow-up activities planned during the year.
technical consultant with MCI Worldcom, a position in which he helps design and implement communication networks throughout the United States and world. Roberts has been married for 22 years and he and his wife have two sons … Eric Angvall (’73) of Lester Prairie was elected mayor this fall by a two-to-one margin in a write-in campaign. He had served a prior term as mayor from 1989 to 1992 … Norm Johnson (’74) is the new superintendent of Butterfield-Odin schools. While spending 40 percent of his time in that position, Johnson also serves as principal of the elementary school in the Red Rock Central school system. The two districts contracted to share Johnson’s time and expertise. Johnson and his wife, Judy, have three grown sons … Dick Lafean (’78) and his wife, Nancy Lafean (’78), live in Coon Rapids and have two children … Lorena Cook (’76) and husband, Robert, were invited to the White House this fall as guests of President Clinton to listen to his live weekly radio address. Their daughter, Holly B. Cook, recently left her position as special assistant in the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs and is now a special assistant for government affairs for the Red Lake Band of Chippewa in Washington, DC, and Redlake … Joe Vene (’74), superintendent of the Northwestern Minnesota Juvenile Center in Bemidji, has been named corrections person of the year. Vene received the award during an Oct. 28 ceremony at Duluth. It is given by the Minnesota Corrections Association for outstanding contributions by individuals of any
employment. Vene became the superintendent of the juvenile center in 1981. Under his leadership funding was secured to build a new facility which opened in August 1996 … Michael Paul Shay (’70) and Carolinda Shay Joe Vene (’71) of Arlington Heights, IL, have been married since 1970 and are both still teaching. Michael is the head track and cross country coach and teaches health/ psychology at the high school and Carolinda teaches elementary school … Randy McGuire (’77) of St. Louis, MO, was recently granted his Ph.D. by St. Louis University … Shirley Carver (’70) of McIntosh was recently the subject of a feature story in the Thirteen Towns newspaper of Fosston. Carver’s teaching career spanned 37 years and she has been an avid antique collector since she was in her early 20s. Recently she’s taken up carving as an additional hobby … Denny Ranta (’70), head coach for Plainview Gophers boy’s and girl’s cross country teams, was named both Section 1A Coach of the Year and Three Rivers Conference Coach of the Year this fall. Ranta has been
Where We Are ... What We’re Doing (Continued from page 3)
School District. In 1972 she was awarded the Outstanding Elementary Teacher of America award. She was Roseau’s Teacher of the Year in 1981 and Teacher of Excellence at the state level the same year … Lowell Nomeland (’65) has had the new gymnasium at Faribault High School dedicated to him posthumously . Named athletic director in 1971, Nomeland remained the longtime athletic director for the high school and director of student activities for Faribault Public Schools. His entire professional career was spent in Faribault. He was the defensive coordinator for the Falcons football team for more than 20 seasons and a pioneer in girl’s athletics. Nomeland was named the Region1 AA Athletic Director of the Year in both 1988 and 1994, and was a member of the Bemidji State College Athletic Hall of Fame. He is remembered as a man of compassion, Four BSU alumni from four different decades of graduates were enthusiasm and key players in efforts this winter by the Beltrami County Historical dedication by his friends Society and the Northern Iron Horse Railroad Society to raise $100,000 to renovate the old railroad depot in downtown Bemidji. and colleagues since his Pictured are LOUIS MARCHAND (‘48), WANDA HOYUM (‘96), EVA death in July of 1994.
the Pioneer Educators Award from the Retired Educators Association of Minnesota. She began her teaching career in a one-room school following a teacher training course. She taught in the Wannaska Consolidated School and finished her career teaching first grade in the Roseau
STENGEL (‘60) and HILDA RUCHUY (‘70).
1970s Terry Cuthbertson (’71) of Topeka, KS, is the director of information management for VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System … Dave Barnum (’74) and Mary Lou (Spurlin) Barnum (’74) have been living in Crookston for the past 24 years. Dave teaches life science, is the head girl’s track coach, coaches football and teaches driver education. He was the girl’s state track coach of the year and has been selected Section 8A coach of the year several times. Mary Lou works at a Crookston eye clinic part-time and is a volunteer with the Crookston Band and Choir. The Barnums have three sons, two in college and one in high school … Kathy Dault (’71) was chosen by the International Falls High School Renaissance Committee and the International Falls Kiwanis Club as the educator of the month for August. She teaches fourth grade at Falls Elementary School and is a member of the Minnesota Federation of Teachers, the Parent Involvement Committee and the Committee to Prevent Rural Violence. The parent who nominated Dault wrote, “Mrs. Dault has gone out of her way to see that her students are intellectually challenged, but strives to ensure that each of them can successfully attain the learning goals she sets.” … Chris Weir-Koetter (’76) of Bemidji works as a Minnesota State Parks Region 1 parks senior resource specialist … Mike Roberts (’76) of Plymouth is employed as a
Horizons Page 5 Bemidji State Awarded Job Skills Grants The Minnesota Job Skills Partnership (MJSP) has awarded Bemidji State University matching grants totaling $365,000 to support training efforts for area businesses. The grants will assist Anderson Fabrics and Potlatch Corporation by providing training and education to employees. The BSU Center for Research and Innovation will administer the grants and coordinate the programs. Training for Anderson Fabrics will be conducted in just-in-time manufacturing techniques, quality control, customer service and information systems. Anderson Fabrics Inc., founded in 1980 by Ronald Anderson, is the largest manufacturer of custom-sewn decorating products in the nation. The entire operation — corporate headquarters, manufacturing plant, and retail outlet store — are located in Blackduck. The company is the largest private employer in Beltrami County with approximately 300 employees. Product lines include draperies for specialty or custom orders, bedspreads, and window blinds. Every order is custom made to the buyer’s specifications. For Potlatch Corporation, training will be based on the American Engineered Wood Association quality process and will help further develop the company’s quality management system. The plants of Bemidji, Grand Rapids and Cook will be the sites for this training. The project will impact the wood products division, specifically in the oriented strand board producing area. Potlatch Corporation, founded in 1903 in Potlatch, ID, is a diversified forest products company with 1.5 million acres of timberland in Arkansas, Idaho and Minnesota. The wood products group, which has operations in Minnesota, manufactures oriented strand board, lumber, plywood and particleboard sold throughout the United States. The Minnesota Job Skills Partnership is a state agency created by the 1983 Legislature whose long-term goal is to help create an environment of cooperation between business, industry and Minnesota’s post-secondary educational or nonprofit training institutions.
coaching teams at Plainview since he first started teaching in 1970 and though he didn’t start coaching cross country until 1984, he’s won recognition as girl’s cross country coach of the year and was inducted into the Girl’s Cross Country Coaches Hall of Fame. He and his wife, Barb (Schrader), have two grown children … Richard Valentine (’73) of Baxter has been named rehabilitation area manager of the Minnesota Work Force Centers in Brainerd, Little Shirley Carver
Falls, Staples and Wadena. He will manage rehabilitation services to persons with disabilities in southern Cass, Crow Wing, Morrison, Todd, Wadena, Aitkin and Ottertail counties. Valentine served as a rehabilitation services counselor for 22 years in Bemidji.
1980s David A. Schnell (’83) was recently deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, aboard the guided missile cruiser USS Vincennes. He holds the rank of Navy Lt. Commander … Deborah Wanek (‘81) is the new principal, graduation standards technician and student council advisor at Rothsay High School. She is originally from Bagley and is now living in Fergus Falls with her husband and three daughters … Frank Wimler (’80) of Gering, NE, accepted a position as chief operations officer in December with InterTECH Corp. The company provides high speed internet access to non-urban and rural communities using satellite technologies developed by InterTECH. Prior experience includes 19 years working in the cable television industry. Frank and his wife, Jennifer (Seefeldt), have two children. Jennifer has a home-based business developing web sites, providing art services to regional photographers and restoring old and damaged photographs … Kristi Pickett (’87) of Bemidji works as a veterinary technician at Bemidji Veterinary Hospital. She’s
Learning Learning Opportunities Through KBSU-TV Dr. Pat Riley, professor of music, tapes a segment for the introduction to music class aired on KBSU-T V.
Two courses, one helping people better appreciate music and the other exploring film, are being broadcast by KBSU-television at Bemidji State. The two-credit classes are the first instructional TV courses available through KBSU and are being aired at sites that receive Midwest Cable services in the Bemidji and Cass Lake areas. The offerings, which run for 10 weeks, include: •INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC , a liberal education class taught by Dr. Patrick Riley, BSU professor of music, which exposes students
to the role music, in its myriad styles, plays in daily life; it also will include opportunities for listening to and understanding various forms. •AMERICAN CINEMA , an elective course taught by Bob Scriba, chair of the Theatre and Speech Communication Department, which examines the nation’s cinema from the beginning of the sound era to the 1990s; it will focus on film as an art form, an industry, and as a powerful cultural form. The television offerings are just part of the off-campus opportunities available through the
Center for Extended Learning. It coordinates a wide variety of classes across northern Minnesota, in the Twin Cities, and at such distant sites as Toronto, Canada. The courses are available in a variety of formats, from prepackaged units to interactive television. A complete list of programs can be obtained by contacting the Center for Extended Learning, BSU Deputy Hall, Bemidji, MN 56601-2699 (1-800-475-2001, extension 2738 or 218-7552068).
been married for 10 years to Kevin Pickett and the couple has two children … Diane Sidoroff (’86) is currently living in McAllen, TX, … Mari Johnston (’89) of Eldon, IA, opened her own home care business which has expanded to two offices. She is expecting two grandchildren soon … Deanna Olson (’87) of Cannon Falls works in the cataloging department at the Carleton College Library in Northfield. She and her husband recently bought some property near Nevis … Terri (Ziegler) Morganson (’83) enjoys living in Anchorage, AK, … Dale Erickson (’87) and Barb (Kuzel) Erickson (’88) live with their two children in Rochester where Dale works with Analysts International and Barb is self-employed as a graphic designer … Connie Cwikla (’86) participated in a lefsa making demonstration at Ace on the Lake, Bemidji, as part of Bemidji’s First City of Lights Celebration this winter … Mike Aschenbrener (’82) filed as a candidate to serve on the Forest Lake Township Board this fall. He is a Forest Lake Police sergeant, is married and has four children … Randy Wilson (’80) filed this fall for a seat on the Glencoe City Council. He owns Wilson How –To Hardware, is married and has two children … Susan (Price) Sack (’81) lives in Maple Grove with her husband, Dave, and their two sons. She’s been employed as a bookkeeper for the past eight years, working the last three at
St. Joseph the Worker Church in Maple Grove … RoxAnn Karkhoff-Schweizer (’81) of Ft. Collins, CO, is an assistant professor of microbiology at Colorado State University … Curt Simmons (’82) and Pat Simmons (’82) live in Kalamazoo, MI, where Curt works for the Kellogg Company and Pat teaches pre-school special education, They have a son who’s in fifth grade … Jack Vizecky (’86) filed this fall for reelection to his post as sheriff of Lincoln County. He’s worked in law enforcement for 18 years … R.C. Eckert (’89) of Phoenix, AZ, is a legal assistant in the litigation department of the World Wide Law Firm of Squire Sanders & Dempsey … Mike Roysland (’80) of Fosston was recently inducted into the Minnesota State High School Volleyball “Hall of Fame” in recognition of his outstanding 15-year record as a volleyball coach. His teams’ 361-61 record was compiled during three years at McIntosh-Winger and 12 for the Win-E-Mac School District. Roysland, a full-time teacher at Win-E-Mac, completed his volleyball coaching responsibilities last year, but he continues as boy’s basketball mentor. Three times named Minnesota Class A Coach of the Year, Roysland appeared with his team in eight state tournaments, winning one championship, four seconds, one third and one fourth … Mike Fox (’84) of Oakdale has worked as an accountant with Harvest States Cooperatives since January 1990. He and his wife, Julie, have two sons, ages 4 and 5 … Tim Buckley (’86) has been assistant coach to
the Cardinals at Ball State for the past four years. Buckley has helped Ball State average 18 wins per year and has been on the staff for a 1995 NCAA Tournament bid and a 1998 National Invitation Tournament showing. He and his wife, Shannon, have a daughter … Mary (Edinger) Myers (’89), is employed by AnokaHenn. ISD 11 as an ECFE early childhood instructor. She recently lost her husband, Tom Myers (’89), to pancreatic cancer. She and her three children, ages 4, 2 and 5 months, may be contacted by friends at 11524 Yucca St.N.W., Coon Rapids, 55433 … Jackie Tappe (’87) was recently hired as controller at Computer 1 in Brainerd. She will also serve as a Great Plains Dynamics consultant … Bob Ekstrom (’89) was an instructor at the annual Share the Future in Science and Math at BSU this winter. About 250 seventh- and eighth-grade girls from the region attended the session … Brad Thom (’80) took over in December as the new minister at Christ Lutheran Church in Glencoe. Thom had been a Navy chaplain for the last six years in Virginia. Before that, he was a Lutheran minister for 10 years. Thom and his wife, Ruth, have two children in elementary school … Rexford Spofford (’88), a corrections officer at the Spring Creek Correctional Facility in Seward, AK, was recently awarded the title of correctional officer of the year by the International Association of Correctional (Continued on page 6)
Horizons Page 6
Alumni Association Sponsors
Alumni
Full-Tuition Scholar
Heather Wuollet, freshman from Shakopee, is a Full-Tuition Scholar sponsored by the BSU Alumni Association.
T “
The highest priority for the Bemidji State University Alumni Association continues to be its scholarship program. Last year, the Alumni Association board agreed that each board member individually needed to set a standard within the alumni membership relating to individual donations made to the BSU Foundation.
he Full-Tuition Scholarship definitely influenced my decision to come to BSU. Other schools also offered me academic scholarships, but the FullTuition Scholarship at BSU surpassed all the others.” Heather Wuollet
As a result, each board member has individually pledged dollars to support a Full-Tuition Scholarship. Additionally, the Alumni Board sponsored a fulltuition scholar, Heather Wuollet, pledging to support the scholarship during her four-year experience at Bemidji State. Wuollet is a 1998 graduate from Shakopee High School and has not yet decided on a major, but is planning to minor in German. “The Full-Tuition Scholarship definitely influenced my decision to come to BSU,” said Wuollet. “Other schools also offered me academic scholarships, but the Full-Tuition Scholarship at BSU surpassed all the others.
“I’ve been very pleased with my experience at BSU so far. The campus is beautifully situated and the people here are great. The programs here are also wonderful. I love the Outdoor Program Center and I’m looking forward to participating in Eurospring next year.” The Full-Tuition Scholarship Program was initiated by the University five years ago to attract academically talented students to BSU. To apply for the highly competitive award, high school students must score 28 or above on the ACT and rank in the top 10 percent of their class. The grants are renewable for up to four years, providing the stu-
dent maintains a 3.50 GPA and makes normal progress toward a degree. Funded by gifts made to the Bemidji State University Foundation, the scholarship pays the equivalent of tuition costs for the recipients. “I’d like to thank everyone who so generously contributes to the BSU Foundation,” Wuollet said. “Without their continuing support, many full-tuition scholars would not be attending Bemidji State University today.” For information on the Bemidji State University Foundation Scholarship program, contact the Foundation Offices at 755-2762 or 1-888-234-5718.
Outstanding Mass Communication Alumni Award Winners Named The faculty of the Department of Mass Communication has selected Kevin Grinde and Brad Dokken to share the outstanding mass communication alumni award for the 1998-99 school year. They will be officially recognized at the Mass Communication Awards Banquet on April 24 when their names will be added to a plaque in Bangsberg Hall. Grinde, a 1984 BSU graduate from Hibbing, currently serves as the managing editor of the Grand Forks Herald. Prior to serving in that capacity, he was the outdoor editor, presentation team leader, editor of the monthly magazine Northland Outdoors, and was Agweek Magazine copy editor. Dokken, also a 1984 BSU graduate who came from Roseau, serves as the outdoors editor of the Grand Forks Herald. Prior to serving in that capacity, he was region page editor/designer, features team reporter/copy editor, Northland Outdoors associate editor, and Agweek Magazine copy editor. In 1998, Grinde and Dokken were members of the Herald news team that won the Pulitzer Prize for public service journalism as a result of news coverage of the 1997 flooding of the Red River.
Where We Are ... What We’re Doing (Continued from page 5)
Officers. Spofford’s record reflects a dedicated professional committed to public service. Since 1995, he has worked not only as a line officer at SCCF but also as a field training officer and corrections instructor.
1990s Jeffrey Spry (’90) works as a creative director for UFIT, Inc. in Minneapolis and lives in Bloomington with his wife, Julie, and their two children … Jeff Bluth (’93) and Tracy Bluth (’92) live in Brainerd where Jeff is the new kitchen manager at Poncho & Lefty’s Restaurant. Tracy recently began work as an LD/ EBD teacher at Nisswa Elementary School …Gretchen E. Peterson (’93) of St. Louis Park is a clinical social worker/program supervisor with Hearthstone of Minnesota in South St. Paul. This is her second season singing with Exultate, a professional chamber choir in the Minneapolis area. She also enjoys visiting friends in the New York and Seattle areas, as well as doing lots of hiking and camping during the summer … Elizabeth J. Macduffie (’97) of Northampton, MA, is working on her doctorate at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst … Carol Jaksa (’96) was named educator of the month for September by the International Falls
High School Renaissance Committee and the International Falls Kiwanis Club. She teaches ninth-grade physical and basic science courses and also coaches the Falls Knowledge Bowl Team, which went to state competition last Jill Bruyere year and has started an Academic Decathlon team … Jill Bruyere (’98) was hired this fall to teach third grade at the St. Thomas School in International Falls. She has lived in Texas and Saudi Arabia and has two sons … Katherine Anderson (’91) lives with her husband, Michael Anderson (’91), in Sartell. Katherine recently received a bachelor of science degree from St. Cloud State University and is seeking a position teaching English and speech in a middle school or high school … Ruth Smith (’96) of Chaska is teaching technical education at Brooklyn Junior High in the Osseo School District … Heather N. Flannery (’95) of Madison has, since April, been working with severely and persistently mentally ill clients as an adult mental health case manager with Lac qui Parle County Family Services … Kristin Brovold (’95) and Ryan Brovold (’95) of Minneapolis announce the June 17 birth of their first child, Erica Mary …
Calub Shavlik (’95) of Lubbock, TX, currently attends Texas Technical University in Lubbock and plans to complete his master’s degree in fisheries management in May of 2000. He’s working on evaluating population dynamics of largemouth bass and pan fish in west Texas ponds … Nicole Skjerven (’93) married Craig Smith Aug. 22 at Sedona, AZ. She is employed as a certified public accountant for Meadow Valley Corporation in Phoenix, AZ, where the couple lives. Craig works as a certified public accountant for Pacific Numerix in Phoenix … Kristi Schmitz (’96) recently served as a Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce ambassador during several visits recognizing new businesses in the area … Wendy Kloeppner (’95) of Pierre, SD, is working as an attorney and completing a one-year appointment as a law clerk for the Honorable Justice John K. Konenkamp of the South Dakota Supreme Court. She graduated from the University of South Dakota School of Law in May … Robert A. Jacobs (’98) is enrolled in a three-year master of divinity program at Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, NJ, … Ann Skinner (’90) has been hired as the new college marketing coordinator at Northwest Technical College in Bemidji. She was previously employed with Rural Cellular Corp. in Alexandria … David Downing (’90) was recently featured as the speaker at the Bemidji
Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International meeting. He is a licensed minister with the Gospel Crusade Ministerial Fellowship and is the administrator of the Strawberry Lake Christian Retreat. He lives in rural Ogema with his wife, Karen, and five children … Lisa Gardlin (’92) of Cotton works in the business department of Falks Pharmacy … Christy Hart (’95) of Miltona announces the Nov. 19 birth of a son, Nolan Henry …Sandy Warner-Coltom (’90) recently opened a new business, Furniture-
U-Finish, in Wilton in a building shared with Wilton Woodworks. The store offers a large selection of quality, new, unfinished furniture. Complete finishing is also available, as well as finishing tips and technical assistance. Sandy runs both businesses with help from husband, Mike … Gary A. Friedlieb (’93), who now holds the position of principal of the Tower-Soudan Schools, has been named to the 1998 edition of Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers. The educators chosen for this honor were selected by
Sandy Warner-Coltom
Horizons Page 7 Current Students Need Your Help Current Bemidji State University students count on the help of BSU alumni. Gifts from alumni help students in a variety of ways. Last year, BSU alumni contributed over $300,000. Gifts from alumni provide scholarships, fund student research, support special departmental programs, aid in recruitment, and help retention efforts. Your charitable gift can make a difference for a student. Please, complete the following pledge form and mail in your gift today. Plus if you give $30 or more you will be an active member of the BSU alumni association and will enjoy all membership benefits. Name _______________________________________________________________ Class Of ____________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________________________________ State ___________________________ Zip ________________________________ Phone ______________________________________________________________ James MaloneBeach, an internationally recognized artist who graduated from BSU in 1972, was featured in a Talley Gallery exhibit on campus this winter. MaloneBeach creates medals from metal and found objects that celebrate the power and beauty of common events. His work has been selected to represent the U.S. at the Medallic Arts Society World Congress in every year the event has been held in the 1990s, and in 1994 he became the first American to win an award when five of his pieces were shown. He now resides in Michigan.
AUC Scholarship Winners Announced Lucy Vitali and Kathy Aluni have been named as the recipients of the Bemidji State University/Arrowhead University Center Alumni Foundation Scholarships. Vitali is a senior from Hibbing who is majoring in elementary education and is planning to do her student teaching spring semester. Vitali is also very interested in promoting the arts for children. From Virginia, Aluni is a junior majoring in applied psychology. She hopes to eventually earn a master’s degree in counseling and work in her community. The Bemidji State University/Arrowhead University Center Alumni Foundation provides two $600 scholarships for BSU students earning their
degrees through the Arrowhead University Center (AUC). Bemidji State operates the AUC to coordinate the delivery of upper division courses
their toughest critics – their former students, who are themselves listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Students or on the National Dean’s List … Jill Vena (’95) is teaching reading in Rhinelander, WI. She has been teaching for three years. Vena plans to marry Jason Mell this November in Palatine, IL, … Greg Elseth (’91) and Delaine (VanderTuin) Elseth (’91) live in Gaylord where Greg is in his fourth year of teaching life and earth science at Sibley East Junior High. He’s also working on a master’s degree through BSU’s Summer Science Institute. Delaine works part-time as a church secretary and teaches aerobics through community education. The Elseths are parents to twins born in September of 1997 … Jeff Cole (’98) is teaching first grade at St. Charles Elementary School in St. Charles … Gayle Runck (’91) splits her days between teaching fifth grade and kindergarten at Tonopah, NV. She is also a youth leader at a local church … Paul Tarutis (’92) currently lives in Benedict … Lucinda Peterson (’97) of Menahga is employed as a hospice/home care specialist at St. Joseph’s Area Health Services in Park Rapids … Linda Olson (‘91) was a guest speaker in October at the Chisholm Senior Center. Her presentation was titled “Emergency Care, What We Do at University Medical Center-Mesabi.” Olson is the nurse manager of critical care and acute care services at UMC-M and has more than 25 years of experience in
nursing … Jill (Murphy) Geroy (’95) of Laporte has been working as a social worker at Cass County Human Services since 1996. She was married in May, 1997, and has a son … Rob Sauer (’92) and Kelly (Thompson) Sauer (’90) of Holland, MI, announce the Feb. 14,1998, birth of a daughter … Marcella Melby (’98) currently lives in Oklee and teaches 9-12 math at Clearbrook-Gonvick High School … Lisa Aho (’98) of St. Cloud is working for Aramark at St. Cloud State University as an assistant location manager … Ken Alexander (’96) teaches middle school science while working on his master’s degree at Hamline University. He lives with his wife, Rui, and their son … Eric E. Poehler (’97) is a graduate student at the University of Chicago, studying Roman history and archaeology. He plans to write his thesis on traffic flow systems in ancient Pompeii … Dawn Woelfel (’97) is a first-year social studies teacher at St. Peter High School … Carrie Thomas (’93) has resigned from her volleyball coaching position in the Tower/Soudan School District in order to work as a nanny in Upper Saddle River, NJ … David Paavola (’92) is in his first year of teaching special education at New York Mills High School … Kim Brown (’98) is youth program coordinator for the Maple Lake Family Services Collaborative. In November, she organized family night activities celebrating Maple Lake in an effort to get everyone in the community involved in helping
to sites across the Iron Range. The BSU alumni Scholarship Committee is made up of BSU/ AUC graduates headed by Vickie Jacobson.
Yes, I want to help current BSU students! Please accept my gift of: $ _________ / $100 / $75 / $30 Check payable to BSU Foundation OR Charge my: ___ VISA ___ MasterCard Credit Card Number ____________________________________________ Exp. Date ________________________________________________________ Signature ________________________________________________________ Mail to: BSU Foundation, Bemidji State University, 1500 Brichmont Drive NE, Bemidji, MN 56601-2699
Place Travel Ad Here!
its youth succeed … Donn Schaefer (’93) is teaching low brass in a one-year position at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, TN, and has done many freelance performances in the Nashville area … Erin Roeske (’97) is teaching second grade in South St. Paul and lives in Woodbury … Lori Nehring Terhaar (’98) is teaching Title I in Elk River … Sharon Meyer (’97) moved to New Orleans, LA, in August and is teaching music at three inner-city elementary schools. She is also involved in music and other ministries at her church … Judy (Green) Graca (‘92) and her husband, Ricardo Graca, announce the Nov. 11 birth of a daughter, Elaina Mariah. The couple also has a two-year-old son. The family lives in Valencia, CA, where Judy works as an image consultant with Mary Kay and Ricardo is a viceprincipal at the Oaks School in Hollywood, CA … Trinitie Alvarez (’97) of St. Cloud announces the July 18 birth of a daughter, Chloe. Alvarez works as a customer service representative with Fingerhut … Cheryl J. Olivanti (’98) of Virginia has been hired as a personal financial adviser with the Virginia office of American Express Financial Advisors Inc. Previously she’s been employed with Mountain Iron State Bank and U.S. Bank, Virginia … Stacie Syverson (’95) and Bill Sutter were married Nov. 14 on the beach in Maui, Hawaii. The couple lives in Kirkland, WA, where Stacie works as accounts receivable manager for Verio West … Carrie Melberg
(’95) and husband, Tim, of Bemidji announce the Dec. 19 birth of a son … Pauline Winge (’92) and husband, David, of Bemidji announce the Dec. 19 birth of a son … Jennifer (Nygard) Roberts (’96) of Houston, TX, recently married Jack Roberts, also of Houston. She works as a documentation/help-file specialist with SYSCO Corp. … Amy Renae Deno (’96) and N. Collin Madaris were married Oct. 17 in the Main Post Chapel at Fort Bragg, NC. Amy is enlisted in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army stationed at Fort Bragg and her husband is enlisted in the 82nd Airborne Division of the Army stationed at Camp Casey, South Korea … Londa Kahlstorf (’98) and Jason Johannsen were married Aug. 29 at Kabekona Community Church, Laporte. The couple currently lives in Eveleth …Libby Fadness (’95) and husband, Scott Fadness (‘95), of Bemidji announce the Dec. 30 birth of a son … Dorie Shanfeld (’96) and husband, Mark, announce the Dec. 9 birth of a daughter … Chris Allen (’92) teaches one of three sixth-grade classes at the ClearbrookGonvick Schools, Frank Lien Site in Gonvick. Hired this fall, Allen also is Chris Allen providing computer
technology assistance to the school’s librarian … Teresa Hinkkanen (’98) has been named as the diabetic education coordinator for the newly developed Diabetes Resource Center program at the University Medical Center-Mesabi. She will be responsible for coordinating patient education as well as program development, implementation and evaluation. She and her husband, Peter, live in rural Hibbing with their three children … Maria Fuglestad (’97) of Bemidji and Timothy Raukar (’96) of Grand Rapids were married Aug. 29. They live in Turtle River … Jason R. Saari (’93) of St. Paul began work as an application consultant at U.S. Bank on Jan. 25 … Deidre Exman(’98) married Chad Kittelson on Nov. 28 in Cokato. She teaches kindergarten through sixth-grade at Ponemah Elementary School. Chad works at Lutheran Social Service in Bemidji. The couple lives in Bemidji … Allen Retz (’97) is the new manager of the All in All convenience store in Frazee. He also works at the Holiday Inn in Detroit Lakes, where he formerly was auditor … Dinnee Bauk (’94) of New York Mills recently became engaged to Jeff Johnson of Bemidji. An Aug. 21 wedding in New York Mills is planned. Bauck is a first-grade teacher in Sebeka and is working on a master’s degree at BSU. Johnson is employed with Big North Distributing in Bemidji … Kristal Johnson (’94) was recently named the new outreach coordinator for the North Central Office of the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota.
Horizons Page 8
Communiques
Communiques BSU ExploresName Options from alumni AND SUE KRINGEN, DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
MnSCU has directed Bemidji State Universit y and five other state universities suitability of their current names.
The board for the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) has directed BSU and five other state universities to undertake an on-campus review of the suitability of their current names. The universities have until September 30, 1999, to report their findings. The name question was prompted by Minnesota State University, Mankato, which requested a change from Mankato State University. That was approved in September of 1998 when the board instructed the other campuses to investigate their options. A committee has been formed to begin the process and includes two representatives from the Alumni Association: Joe Aitken, ‘72 of Bemidji; and John Redebaugh, ‘70 from Nisswa. Sue Kringen, director of alumni relations, is serving on an ex officio basis. Others on the committee include BSU faculty, staff and students as well as representatives of the BSU Foundation and the Bemidji community. “The questions faced by this committee have been clearly stated,” said Dr. Jim Bensen, BSU president. “Does this campus wish to remain Bemidji State University, where it has a tradition and history tied to a very unique name that matches a unique location? “Or does this campus wish to adopt a new name that reflects a more regional posture within the state, such as Northern Minnesota University? “Or does this campus wish to join with at least one other institution to become a Minnesota State University?” The institution has undergone several changes since it first opened in 1919 as Bemidji State Normal School. The progressions
to Bemidji State Teachers College in 1921 and to Bemidji State College in 1957 followed patterns for other schools within the state, region and nation. In the early 1970s, discussions took place to review the name since the designation of “university” was replacing “college” to reflect the school’s role as a multipurpose institution. At that time,
a campus committee looked at regionalizing the name or maintaining ties to the town and lake. The choices available prior to the 1975 adoption of the name Bemidji State University were different than the options available in 1999. The campus could not use the to review the word “Minnesota” in its name 25 years ago, but recent legislation will allow that possibility. A second difference is that the University is not required to use the terms “State University” as part of its name. Alumni who would like to comment on the name issue should contact the Alumni Association or one of its representatives on the committee.
Concert to Honor Brandvik Sarah Aamot-Lundin, a 1990 BSU music education graduate, will be directing a concert featuring selected choral works by Dr. Paul Brandvik, director of choral activities at Bemidji State from 1969 until his retirement last spring. The 7:30 p.m. performance will take place May 1 at the First Baptist Church in St. Paul. The choir will be composed of 50 alumni of the Bemidji Choir. Immediately following the recital, the BSU Alumni Association will sponsor a reception at the Saint Paul Hotel. Brandvik is a nationally and internationally recognized choral conductor, composer, clinician
Yourd Scholarship Established A scholarship in the memory of John Yourd has been established by his family through the BSU Foundation. Yourd, who taught in the Department of Professional Education from 1966 to 1982, died February 19 in Bemidji at the age of 81. The scholarship will benefit students majoring in music education and who are planning careers teaching music at the elementary or secondary levels. Memorials may be sent to: The Yourd Scholarship, Bemidji State University Foundation, 1500 Birchmont Drive NE-DPH, Bemidji, MN 56601-2699.
and author. He is best known for his Madrigal Dinner productions at Bemidji State and in the Twin Cities. Aamot-Lundin is currently a graduate student at St. Cloud State University. The concert is being presented in partial fulfillment of requirements to receive her master’s degree in choral conducting. She formed the alumni choir, most from the Twin Cities area, to perform at her graduate recital. All the singers, who are performing on a volunteer basis, sang under Brandvik’s direction during his 31-year tenure at BSU. The concert repertoire will be comprised of compositions and arrangements ranging in style from early Madrigals to contemporary pieces, including “Shall I, Mother, Shall I,” “In the Moon of Wintertime,” “Three Songs of Love,” “On the Death of a Father,” “We are Coming, Father Abraam,” and several others. The First Baptist Church in downtown St. Paul is located at the intersection of Ninth Street and Wacouta Avenue. The concert is free and open to the public. The Alumni Association Reception will take place from 9-11p.m. All BSU alumni and friends of BSU are welcome. The Saint Paul Hotel is located at 350 Market Street. Door prizes and complementary hors d’oeuvres will be provided during the reception.
Mark Your Calendars for Homecoming Its not too early to mark your calendars and plan to attend BSU Homecoming 1999 which is scheduled to take place October 1-2, 1999. All alumni events will be held in the Beaux Arts Ballroom on the BSU campus, including the Honors Luncheon, and the post-game reception. Mark your calendars now!
1949, 1959, 1974 Class Reunions
THE 50-YEAR REUNION OF THE CLASS OF 1949 will be held on May 13-14, 1999, and will be in conjunction with Bemidji State University’s commencement. Jack Luoma has volunteered to serve as the reunion chairman. Registration will take place at the David Park House on the afternoon of Thursday, May 13. All 50-year reunion participants will serve as honor guards during BSU’s commencement exercises on May 14. For additional information, contact the BSU Alumni Office at 218-755-3989 or 1-877-BSUALUM (toll free). THE CLASS OF 1959 will have its 40-year reunion during BSU Homecoming 1999 on October 1-2. Ken Henrikson is serving as the reunion chairman and is encouraging all classmates to join him for a weekend of reminiscing, fun and nostalgia. Information regarding registration will be in the mail soon! Mark your calendars and plan to attend! For additional information, contact the BSU Alumni Office at 218-755-3989 (local calls) or call 877-BSU-ALUM (toll free). THE 25-YEAR REUNION OF THE CLASS OF 1974 is also scheduled to take place during BSU Homecoming 1999 on October 1-2. Adele (Levchak) Munsterman will be serving as the 25-year reunion chairman and is looking forward to getting together with all alumni of the class of 1974. Complete information will be mailed to the class of 1974 within the next month and Adele encourages everyone to mark their calendars and plan to attend. For additional information, contact the BSU Alumni Office at 218-755-3989 (local calls) or call 877-BSU-ALUM (toll free).
Contacting the Alumni Association In order for alumni to have easier access to the alumni office, the BSU Alumni Association has established a toll free number. Anyone living outside of the Bemidji area can contact the alumni office by simply dialing: 1-877BSU-ALUM (1-877-278-2586). Alumni can also e-mail the office at alumni@vax1. bemidji. msus.edu or can check out the home page at http://info. bemidji.msus.edu/alumni/.
Joining the Alumni Listserv You can join fellow BSU alumni on the BSU alumni listserv, which currently has over 175 members. To subscribe and unsubscribe from the list, all you need to do is send your commands to the e-mail address listserv@info.bemidji.msus.edu. The commands listserv understands are SUBSCRIBE alumni UNSUBSCRIBE alumni HELP
The first command subscribes you to the alumni list; the second one takes you off the list; and the third sends a help message. These commands go in the SUBJECT part of your mail. When you send the SUBSCRIBE command, it will send you a reply that tells you that you have been subscribed. A similar message appears for the UNSUBSCRIBE command. Once subscribed, messages can be sent to everyone on the list by sending mail to: alumni@info.bemidji. msus.edu.